On Earth Day, Residents Forward of Port Washington kicked off its latest campaign, “Lights Out Port Washington.”
The campaign, which will take place every Wednesday, involves residents turning off lights in their homes to conserve energy, according to Residents Forward Executive Director Mindy Germain.
“Turn off as many lights as you can,” Germain said. “Go outside and connect with the stars in the sky or enjoy the glow of a candle.”
Residents are encouraged to post pictures of their moments outside, hashtag with #LightsOutPW and tag @ResidentsForward.
The first such instance took place on April 22, coinciding with Earth Day.
“People all over the peninsula experienced candle lit moments, and a beautiful sky with a clear view of the planet Venus,” Germain said.
Town of North Hempstead Councilwoman Marianne Dalimonte is supporting the campaign.
”Not only is it good for the environment, it invites people to look up at our expansive sky at a time when many are feeling closed in,” Dalimonte said.
Joining Residents Forward in the effort is their Youth Climate Summit in putting the program together, along with State Sen. Anna Kaplan (D-Great Neck), the Port Washington School District, the Port Washington Public Library, the Sands Point Preserve, Landmark on Main Street, the Parents’ Resource Center, Transition Town and Port Washington Rowing.
“In this very challenging COVID time, it can be hard to process anything else,” said Betsy Liegey, president of Residents Forward. “One glimmer of hope on the climate front is carbon pollution is decreasing because we are burning less fossil fuels. If you have the privilege of staying home with newfound time – help us kick of a simple effort to continuing this trend, turn out as many lights as you can for 15 minutes. Let’s come together and connect to something bigger.”
Lights Out Port Washington will be held every Wednesday night from 8:30 p.m. to 8:45 p.m. on the Port peninsula.
