Recycle Center

Editor, The Bella Vista Recycling Center has operated under the AARP umbrella/ sponsorship for more than 40 years. Our relationship with AARP consisted primarily of periodic reporting about our recycle volumes for their statistics. As of Jan. 1, 2018, the local AARP chapter voted to become inactive which has led to several rumors and questions about the Recycle Center. So to set the record straight on what has or is changing, please note the following:

• Nothing has changed

or is being planned to change.

• We are still a nonprofit

501(c)3.

• We still donate all

(100 percent) of our net proceeds from the sale of recyclables to local charities/nonprofits ($95,000 last year).

• We still rely heavily on

volunteers as our preferred labor source, supplemented by some paid contractors as needed.

• Our volumes remain

consistently high — we processed and sold 5.6 million pounds of recyclables last year.

• We are still governed

by our own internal board made up of volunteers (of which I am one).

• Our emphasis continues

to be reducing landfill waste and donating to local groups.

On behalf of all of us at the Center, we thank all who take the time to bring their recyclables. We would be glad to tour anyone or any groups who are interested in seeing the operation. Call 479-876-5343 or come by the facility between TH Rogers Hardware and the Town Center exit any time. And, of course, we are always looking for more volunteers — more volunteers equals less contractors equals more money to donate. Paul Poulides Bella Vista