Kate Tatem, 732-872-0111, Coast@cleanoceanaction.org

Continuing to C.O.A.S.T. Along the NJ Coast

After a successful kick-off of the 2004 Clean Ocean Action Shore Tips (COAST) Campaign and four weekends, volunteers continue to spread the word about the latest ocean protection issues and pollution prevention.  In just one month, COAST volunteers visited 11 sites and raised $2,125!

COAST was underway after a successful press conference on July 1.  Thanks to Rich Held of Bradley Beach Environmental Commission for hosting the event, and to Ed Lippincott of Chef Ed’s in Belmar who represented coastal businesses.   Special thanks to NJ Assemblyman Joe Azzolina (R-13), who also supports COAST.  Thanks to Tim Dillingham of American Littoral Society, Suzanne Golas of Waterspirit, Brian Hegarty of Shark River Cleanup Coalition, Jeff Tittel of Sierra Club-NJ, Jenny Vickers of NJ Environmental Federation, and Marie Curtis of NJ Environmental Lobby, for attending the press conference and protesting the Fast Track Bill (see related story), also the focus of the COAST campaign.  Together, these speakers showed how COAST encourages elected officials, environmental advocates, local leaders, coastal businesses, and the community to work together in environmental protection.  

Volunteers are still needed for some locations: August 7 & 8 at Ortley Beach, Lavallette, Island Beach State Park, Seaside Park, and Ocean Grove.   Also, contact COA to find out about rain dates for several Sea Bright locations.  Help end the season with a bang by volunteering at the Clearwater Festival on August 21 & 22 in Asbury Park!  Please contact Kate to offer a helping hand.  All ages are welcome!

Also, remember to stop by any COAST table, say hello to our volunteer, show your support for the Clean Ocean Zone (COZ), sign a petition, learn ways you can help be the solution to ocean pollution, and don’t forget to buy a T-shirt.

Welcome, Julia

Julia Brodbeck joins the COA team as South Jersey COAST Intern for the summer.  Julia is coordinating COAST tables in Cape May, Atlantic, and Cumberland Counties and is working on COZ initiatives.  Julia is also assisting with education programs at the Institute of Coastal Education.  Entering her junior year at Vanderbilt University in Nashville, TN, Julia is working toward a Bachelor of Science degree in Biological Sciences, with a focus on Ecology, Evolution, and Organismal Biology.