To the editor:

$10,000: Did you know this is approximately the amount spent on Rotary Auction disposal fees — to get rid of donated items that can’t be used or recycled?

Despite the efforts of those who work with the LOO (Lawn of Opportunity) and the Recycling Team, a huge amount of stuff still gets thrown right into the trash.

Last year with gloved hands we tossed: pesticide/herbicide pumpers full of unknown liquids, dentures (yes, really), kids trophies, chipped porcelain items, chipped anything, plastic tubs without matching lids, a non-functioning air-hockey table.

We also had broken light bulbs, dirty toys a dog had clearly chewed on, used medical equipment, floppy disks, phone cords, or pieces of metal.

Instead, imagine what Rotary could do with another $10,000 to give away to local organizations and please, put your trash, in the trash.

For a full list of what Rotary does not accept (and there are some places that will willingly take those items), visit http://bainbridgerotaryauction.com/about-us-2/donations/items-not-accepted/.

KATY BIGELOW

Bainbridge Island