Continuing Our Green Mission - Marist Holds First Ever Green Week
by Madeleine Ramos '10

Throughout the 2009 to 2010 school year, the Marist Chapter of the National Honor Society has continued to broadcast its year-long message of “Going Green.” During the week of Earth Day, April 22, the NHS held Marist’s First Ever “Green Week” with numerous events to raise even more awareness.

On Monday, the purpose was to raise awareness. The school did its best to leave the lights off as much as possible, and students were allowed to wear green accessories. Homerooms were also given a puzzle piece to put together as a poster with a Go Green Tip.

The main focus of Tuesday was rebirth, a renewed existence, activity, or growth – everything Green Week is all about. Leaves were sold throughout the week to be placed in a tree collage with all proceeds going to the American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life.

Wednesday consisted of reconnecting with the Earth through the phrase, “Do a deed and plant a seed!” Green Kits with one of three seeds – cornflower, sunflower, and baby’s breath – were given away to students.

On the 40th anniversary of Earth Day, which was on Thursday, Marist had an Earth Day Birthday Celebration; participants planned to walk from the back quadrangle through Bayonne Park to appreciate the gift of nature. Mother Nature decided to send us a thunderstorm, which shortened our adventure.

Lastly, Friday was “Now or Never”, which was dedicated to taking action by seriously considering the consequences of society’s actions, especially concerning sources of energy, nuclear, solar, wind, etc.

Hopefully, through these efforts, Marist will form a habitual eco-friendly mindset. The NHS hopes that Green Week has not only boosted awareness and action to the students of Marist High School, but helped society realize that our actions really do make a difference. As NHS member Camille Faye Verano says, “Life’s a Garden... Dig it!”