An invitation to “No Drive Day”
On April 2, JMU’s Clean Energy Coalition is hosting an event called “No Drive Day” to promote use of alternative transportation. Teaming up with the Harrisonburg Department of Public Transportation, the CEC is offering up a cornucopia of prizes: T-shirts for bus riders, refreshments for cyclists and pedestrians and a chance to win free prizes for anyone not arriving at school in a single-occupancy vehicle. The greater purpose of the event is to show students that alternative transportation is its own reward.
Whether you walk, bike or take the bus, using alternative transportation is easier than most people realize, and the savings really add up. Vehicles are least efficient during short bouts of city driving, so there is a good chance those couple of miles you drive to class each day are costing more than you think. By leaving your car at home, you can save money on gas, save time in your daily commute and reduce your environmental footprint.
With warmer weather on the way, it’s the perfect time to ditch your car keys and get some fresh air on your way to class. And buses run rain or shine, so April showers are no excuse to revert back to old habits. I encourage everyone to help the CEC make this event a success on April 2, and to make alternative transportation a part of your everyday routine.
Amanda Reinholtz
senior, geographic science major
Introducing more recycling options
As a result of the dart published in The Breeze a few weeks ago about the lack of recycling in Carrier Library’s public areas, JMU Recycling contacted the library about installing recycling bins. I’d like to announce that as of now, recycling bins have been placed near the lobby and reference area on the first floor, and more are coming soon on other floors.
Our library staff has been dedicated to recycling office paper, bottles and cans since the early 1990s. We also recycle waste paper from our printers and copiers. As the result of an initiative by the EARTH student organization, the libraries now purchase recycled paper for our offices and public printing. We also have a large recycling receptacle outside Carrier Library’s main entrance. However, we have been remiss in providing other recycling options in the building for our users.
Carrier Library’s food and drink policy has evolved over time as well. We recently revised our policy to allow snacks (but not hot, smelly meals) and drinks in covered containers. This will bring Carrier Library in line with the policy planned for the new East Campus Library, which will have a Java City coffee bar in the building. We want JMU libraries to be a comfortable place to study, and we appreciate our users’ assistance in keeping our spaces clean and neat.
Reba Leiding
assistant to the dean
JMU Libraries & Educational Technologies
