Category Archives: Uncategorized

Skull and Crossbones

During the Middle Ages, the skull and crossbones symbol represented death and was often placed on grave markers. In the 18th century “Jolly Roger” flags were flown on pirate ships during an attack and/or as a warning of an impending … Continue reading

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Carlsbad, San Marcos, and Vista Take Action; Escondido and Oceanside Lag Behind

A group of North County residents and I first spoke to the Carlsbad City Council about the plastic pollution problem during a Council meeting in February 2019. That evening, Council Members voted unanimously to place single-use plastics on the legislative … Continue reading

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Making to Make a Difference

I was part of virtual environmental literacy conversation this morning through the California Writing Project and left the meeting feeling inspired by colleagues from across the state who are engaging students in meaningful climate change discussions. As I was thinking … Continue reading

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Into the Current

Into the Current highlights the plastic pollution problem by showcasing photographs, 3-D objects, and sculptures created with plastic debris found on North County San Diego beaches. The installation is on display at the Hill Street Country Club gallery at 530 … Continue reading

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Plastic Plankton

According to a study conducted in 2020, the prevalence of microplastics in the ocean has been significantly underestimated, and the number is at least double previous estimates. Professor Pennie Lundeque, who led the research, stated that “…microplastic concentrations could exceed … Continue reading

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I hate to burst your balloon, but…

Mylar balloons have really been blowing this week! In fact, I picked up six during my beach walk in North County on Wednesday. By now, most people realize that when released, helium-filled balloons will eventually burst or deflate and will … Continue reading

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Takeaways

I have picked up more than my fair share of plastic forks and spoons while cleaning the beach. In fact, I recently collected an assortment of eleven plastic utensils during one walk along the shoreline. Nevertheless, I was surprised by … Continue reading

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More Than A Spoonful

Plastic utensils are among the top ten items found during beach cleanups, and I have found my fair share while walking at the beach. Plastic knives, forks, and spoons are not recyclable in most waste systems, because they are made … Continue reading

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In Our Hands

For centuries, hands have been used as symbols of strength, healing, and protection. In Our Hands, created with plastic debris found on beaches in North County San Diego, will not bring good fortune to anyone; however, the toy hand clappers … Continue reading

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Endangered

May 15th was Endangered Species Day, which was established 15 years ago to raise awareness about the living things that are most at risk. In the United States, over 1,300 plants, crustaceans, insects, reptiles, mammals, and others are listed as … Continue reading

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