Mirror Lake Cleanup Draws City Leaders

ST. PETERSBURG – Shirley O'Sullivan has been a resident in St. Petersburg for decades. She lives within walking distance to Mirror Lake. Over time, O'Sullivan grew tired of watching the lake turn into a waste hole.

"It just breaks my heart to come out here and see how people treat the environment," said O'Sullivan.

Eight years ago, O'Sullivan's good friend Brian Wilder had an idea: "He said to me 'What do you think about having a cleanup here?' " remembers O'Sullivan. The duo put together the first effort on Jan. 23, 2004.

Every year since, the event has gained more recognition and momentum from volunteers, including Mayor Bill Foster. "As far as beautification goes, this particular cleanup was the beginning of community development," said Foster.

"With enough hands, there can be a large improvement in just a few hours."

Foster joined City Council members, community volunteers and high school students on the banks of Mirror Lake. The group's effort was met by generous food donations from local venues, like , and Papa Angelo's Pizza.

also provided drinks for volunteers.

City Parks staff provided boats, gloves, bags, trucks and pickers as well.

Aside from the removal of garbage, volunteers replanted islands of fresh grass that will give wildlife, such as, otters a place to rest.

"We have some of the most beautiful natural habitats here in St. Pete," O'Sullivan said. "It's time to preserve them."