It's been six months since the Deepwater Horizon oil rig exploded and oil began spewing into the Gulf of Mexico. For 110 agonizing days, America stood powerless against the black tide. While scientists may never know for sure just how much oil was lost, we know that the number is astronomical. Hundreds of miles of shoreline and sensitive marshland have been fouled, thousands of sea creatures and birds have died, nearly one quarter of the Gulf's Federal Waters were closed to commercial fishing, and the full effects of underwater oil and the millions of gallons of potentially toxic dispersants is still not fully known.
In the wake of this disaster, a group of Milwaukeeans got together to make a difference. Thus, The Gumbo Git Down, was born. The event raised funds for the Gulf Restoration Network.
Since 1994, the Gulf Restoration Network has been committed to uniting and empowering people to protect and restore the natural resources of the Gulf of Mexico region for future generations. They have taken a leadership role in holding BP and the federal government responsible for the destruction of so much environmentally and economically important habitat.
Our event was a swimming success! We had over 200 attendees, and raised over $1400 for the Gulf Restoration Network. Plus, we had a really great time!
There's lots more great photos here. Check them out!
If you missed the event, but still want to make a difference, you can donate to the Gulf Restoration Network on their website.
And another BIG thanks to Lo and Peef over at Burp! Blog for making this happen with me!
If you missed the event, but still want to make a difference, you can donate to the Gulf Restoration Network on their website.
And another BIG thanks to Lo and Peef over at Burp! Blog for making this happen with me!
I'm still SO proud of you for helping get this going! I live on the gulf and haven't heard of anyone doing something like this to help.
ReplyDeleteAnd thanks for the pictures! Looks like everyone had a blast!