Lawmakers honor citizens, students for community recycling efforts

A community effort in Bristow to encourage recycling has hit a milestone—30 tons have now been recycled via a voluntary program through a company called Replenysh. Sen. James Leewright, R-Bristow, was in his hometown on Thursday to help honor the effort, presenting a citation of appreciation to the people who’ve played a part in this accomplishment.

“This is a perfect example of how ordinary citizens, including students, can partner with a company to make a huge difference on behalf of a community,” Leewright said.  “It doesn’t cost taxpayers a penny, but it is helping protect our natural resources, keeping our city clean, and improving our community for all who live and work here.”

The ball got rolling last winter when Bristow citizen and city council member, Kristine Wyatt, was looking for an economical, efficient way to recycle materials like plastic water and soda bottles, glass bottles, aluminum and steel cans, cardboard and other products.  Ultimately her search brought her in contact with Replenysh that helps those wanting to recycle connect with companies like PepsiCo, Rite Aid and Chick-Fil-A, and others, who want to recover their recyclable materials for reuse.

Rep. Kyle Hilbert, R-Bristow, also applauded the community recycling effort and the many volunteers who have made it a success.

“Kristine was the catalyst, helping reach out to others via social media and other contacts to get folks in the community involved, including the Bristow High School Leadership Class.  I’m so impressed with what they are all doing, and with the founders of Replenysh for this innovative way to help individuals, organizations and communities reduce the amount of materials in landfills or that simply end up as litter,” Hilbert said.  “The folks here in Bristow represent the first community-wide effort for Replenysh, and now others in our state are following our lead.  I think that’s fantastic.”

In fact, the initiative has been so successful, Wyatt says similar efforts are now being undertaken in Ardmore, Bartlesville, Cushing and Tulsa.     

“We really appreciate Senator Leewright and Representative Hilbert for helping shine a spotlight on this project, and I am so grateful for the many volunteers, especially our students, for helping make Bristow an even better community for everyone,” Wyatt said.  “Helping keep our city clean and green at zero cost is a win-win for all of us.”

For more information, contact Sen. James Leewright at 405-521-5528 or email James.Leewright@oksenate.gov.

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