'Race to the Beach' participants increased awareness of clean air challenges

Wednesday, November 14, 2012

During the summer, the IDEAS Center’s Environmental Assistance Office (EAO) organized efforts for UNC Charlotte’s employees to participate in the statewide “Race to the Beach,” sponsored by N.C. Air Awareness, a public outreach and education program of the North Carolina Division of Air Quality.

Eighteen UNC Charlotte employees chose to “clean commute” to work (carpool, bus, LYNX, walk, bike, telecommute or compressed work days) at least 16 times to be eligible for the contest.  They were Alice Patterson, Budget Office; Bonnie Gable, College of Liberal Arts & Sciences; Bonnie Morton and Rebecca Hefti, College of Education; Carol Hartley, languages and culture Studies; Chris Alspaugh,* Terri Fish, Tiffany McAfee and Yvonne Billings, *extended academic programs;  Gale Helms, financial data administration; Jon Crowe, Environmental Assistance Office; Karla Stanchina,* Graduate School; Kelly Franklin, *international programs; Kelly Freshcorn, facilities management; Lyn Woodruff, auxiliary services; Starr Wimberly, parking and transportation services; Tequilla Bennett, graduate admissions; and Tony Menton, grounds and maintenance. (Individuals with asterisks complete all 16 commutes)

According to EAO officials, these “racers” helped save more than $15,000 worth of gas, 94,000 commuter miles drive and 48 tons of air pollution. They also assisted raising awareness about air pollution challenges in the Charlotte area.

Students Meagan Flood, Matthew Gutowski and  Joshua Hyatt also joined in the race.

UNC Charlotte was one of 11 regional organizations to participate in the statewide “Race to the Beach.”