Letter: Collecting hand-held electronics for charity

Dear Editor

Cocker Spaniel Resources is a public charity under tax Code 501(c)(3) of the IRS. We are rescue, rehabilitate, rehome and retire cocker spaniels and cocker spaniel mixes for the states of Wisconsin, Iowa, Minnesota and Missouri.

We are having a recycling drive to help fund our efforts. Our recycling drive began June 15 and ends Aug. 15. The next drive will be Jan. 15 through March 15, 2009.

Why recycle electronics? Almost 100 percent of electronics use solder, which contains lead, to hold circuitry and other components together. Other deadly toxins such as mercury, arsenic, cadmium, beryllium and antimony are also used in the manufacture of these electronic devises, if thrown away in a landfill, these substances will leak into the soil and contaminate the ground water.

Only 8 percent of electronics sold in the United States is recycled. We plan to help increase the percentage of electronics recycled. The average person changes hand-held electronics every 14 to 24 months, so the amount of electronics going into landfills can mount up quickly.

Our organization will collect cell phones, digital cameras, Ipods, PADs, Blackberry, pagers, palm pilots and other hand-held electronics. We take all models and makes, regardless of working condition. Phones must be deactivated and personal information deleted prior to donation.

The Leitch Agency, Highview Kennels and Croix Valley Veterinary Hospital have agreed to collect electronics for us. For more information on how your company, business or group can help phone 715-222-9532. Receipts for your electronic donation will be available at the collection points.

Tags: opinion, troy, letter, electronics, recycling