The 17 Days to St. Patrick's Day: Shorewood Goes Green

Kermit says it's not easy being green. And he's right. Luckily, folks in Shorewood are getting a little help.

Tonight, the Troy-Shorewood Public Library is hosting an "Organizing to be Green" workshop at 7 pm. The guest speaker is Certified Professional Organizer Beth Randall. Beth started her own company in Plainfield called Joe Organizer.

"I have to be very organized in my own life," Randall wrote on her website. "Three kids going in different directions every day of the week keeps me on my toes."

The library publicizes the event as teaching best ways to reuse or recycle used items. Registrants will get tips for creating a home recycling program, and generally finding ways to stay organized.

Another way Shorewood is helping its residents is through a 50/50 parkway tree replacement program. The village will pay half the cost of a tree, up to $125, if a homeowner wants to replace one in the parkway.

First of all, removal and planting applications must be filed and approved by the village before the tree is purchased. These applications can be found by linking to Village of Shorewood.

Also, not all types of trees qualify. Homeowners may choose from the following: red maple, sugar maple, oak, linden, Kentucky coffeetree, common hackberry, ginkgo, elm, crabapple or callery pear. Information about these trees, including photos is also available at the same web link.

It used to be that green was saved for St. Patrick's Day. That color isn't just for the Irish anymore. Today, being green means being environmentally responsible. Recycling. Reusing. Replanting. Re-whatevering in an effort to minimize the carbon footprint.

Kermit and his troupe probably like the idea.

Maybe it is easier being green, after all.