Parks board spotlights volunteers who removed 360 pounds of trash, urges turnout for May 2 service day

The Richmond Parks and Recreation Board on April 9 recognized volunteers who recently removed 360 pounds of trash from Bsentennial ("Fossil") Park and urged residents to join the next organized cleanup on May 2 at Middlefork Cove.

Brandon Panninsky, the department's trail and service leader, introduced volunteers Howard Price, Gary Deluchio and Anthony Alana and said two volunteers entered the river to remove plastic and other debris. "With their help... we removed 360 pounds of trash," Panninsky said, and added that "every little bit helps" when families and groups join service days.

Board members and staff reiterated logistics: monthly service days are normally held on the first weekend of every month from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., with a July exception after the fireworks on July 5. Panninsky said the department can accommodate scout and school groups seeking service hours and encouraged organizations and businesses to register.

The volunteer recognition comes as the department highlights maintenance work across parks, including split-rail repairs and steps at the horseshoe-court area. Staff said volunteers are essential to those efforts and urged residents to check the parks office or call the department for directions and sign-up information.

The department said volunteers and those who want more information should contact the parks office for meeting places and supplies. The department will post schedules for upcoming service days.