Three projects from WPI will be featured, all MQP's, including: "Recycling Used Grinding Wheels" by Lorie Ann Guay and Andre Kalvelage, "Specific Detection of Cryptosporidium in Environmental Water Samples" by Steve Slutter and a presentation by Antonio Jose Delgado. There will also be interactive exhibits about electric cars, new buses and other topics.
The departments of Civil, Chemical, Electrical and Mechanical Engineering are each contributing $50, for prize money for the contestants. Corporate sponsors for the day include: Allmerical Financia, Bank of Boston, Greater Media Cable, Nynex, Worcester Magazine, and Quantum.
In the case of rain, the event will be postponed until Sunday, May 5th. On Friday the 26th, a forum will be presented in the Sackler Science Building of Clark University at 6:30, where toxic use reduction will be discussed. Weekend plans also include clean-up projects throughout the city, at 53 sites, including Institute Park.
Somebody's Sister, String Town, the Thorndyke Road School Environmental Chorus, Chuck & Mud and Kim Trusty will be among the bands performing on Sunday. The other band in this Arbor Day celebration is called "Tree Hackers."
The Regional Environmental Council was formed in 1971 to protect and improve the Central Massachusetts environment. This non-profit organization works to build public awareness of choices concerning air and water quality, land use, waste reduction, recycling and transportation. It sponsors a variety of programs, from research to citizen action.
The council acts as a resource for the community, updating a directory of recycling resources throughout the county, studying land use and housing issues as well as working to keep its members informed on environmental issues. Some of its studies have set the stage for the preservation of woodlands in the city of Worcester.
Students who are interested in joining the council may contact them at Box 255, Worcester MA 01613, or by phone at 799-9139. The council is encouraging all members of the community to come to the festival on Sunday, to learn, have fun and enjoy a nice afternoon outdoors.