Monday August 7, 2006

For Immediate Release

Media Contacts:
    Allison Martin    (502) 574-1909 / (502) 432-3564
    Linda Fountain  (502) 574-4241 / (502) 372-0836
    Alicia Smiley     (502) 574-7761 / (502) 574-7682
    www.LouisvilleKy.gov

Louisville, KY (August 7, 2006) - Mayor Jerry Abramson today urged Louisville residents and businesses to begin collecting documents and materials now for the free community shredding event at the Louisville Zoo on Saturday, September 9th from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm. Last year, more than 21 tons of material were shredded and recycled.

There is no limit to the amount of documents residents may bring. Businesses are asked to bring no more than 100 pounds.

"I am pleased that we can provide this important public service to residents at no cost," Abramson said. "The best way to fight identity theft is to destroy any materials containing names, addresses, phone numbers, social security numbers and account numbers."

Police will be on hand to provide tips on how to combat identity theft.

Items that can be brought for shredding include documents, discs, hard drives, credit cards and other confidential materials. All paper materials will be shredded on site and recycled to make materials such as compost, tissues and toilet paper.

This event is a partnership with the Louisville Metro Police Department and Louisville Metro Solid Waste Management. A local shredding company, Shred-It, is donating its services for the event.

For more information, visit www.louisvilleky.gov or call MetroCall at 311 or (502) 574-5000.