For those who haven't heard, former Green Team member, Anthony Choquette, earned the prestigious Global Environmental Leadership Award from the Walden Woods Project last week amongst four other award winners, including former President Bill Clinton. Anthony was recognized for his efforts in the Lawrence community, including his work to improve the Spicket River, lead healthy eating workshops, and the expand Lawrence community gardens. On top of that, he was also honored for his collaborative work with the EPA on water quality monitoring systems for the Shawsheen River, and gathering information on possible sewage leaks.

Forrest Foundation intern, Ryan Tengler sat down with Anthony the week following his award ceremony and gained some perspective on what makes him strive every day to make a difference in Lawrence. His response reflected his passion: "My inner drive comes from wanting to change the negative perception of Lawrence. There are still people out there who think it's a nasty city and it's so frustrating...because there are so many positives that are overlooked and not given any attention." Later in the interview, Ryan asked him to, "Imagine yourself at 40 years old. You wake up and pick up the newspaper and see and image on the front page. You're in that image, and it represents your life's work. What would the headline read?" Anthony was ready within seconds to answer the question, which was simple and meaningful. He stated, "For my headline, I would like it to read: 'Lawrence is Finally Back on its Feet.'" According to Ryan, If one thing was absolutely clear by the end of the interview, it was that Anthony has a distinct and blazing passion to bring prosperity back to the city that he grew up in and loves. Through hard work, focus and determination he says it's possible to make a dream come alive.

All of us at Groundwork Lawrence are looking forward to see what Anthony has in store for the future! Look out for news in the upcoming year about a city-wide cleanup that he is in the process of getting started! Best of luck, Anthony!