Who knew landfill diversion could be so much fun?
Well I guess all the dedicated volunteers at BIRD have a clue. The difference with the Fix-it-Fair, hosted at Collins Hall last Sunday, is that it is cozy and you can also enjoy a tea and even learn things while you practice landfill diversion.
A quick scan around the room showed collaboration, teaching and information, and furrowed brows.
As veteran fixer Peter Matthews hurried to wrap up his time at the fair and successfully repair a damaged microwave, he offered up the difference between a regular Phillips screw and a security screw.
“Essentially the security screw is adult-proof,” he said, and then offered a peak at his extensive collection of screw-driver heads that come in handy for such jobs.
When asked about how he became a fixer, he simply replied, years of practice, and said he likes to encourage people to make use of the random electronics that can be found at the recycling depot.
“Take things apart and put them back together,” says Matthews. “After a few decades, you’ll know what you’re doing.”
Aaron Davison says he;s been fascinated with how things work ever since he was a kid.
“I encourage people just to be brave and start taking things apart with whatever tools they have, and maybe watch some YouTube videos,” says Davison. “Of course, be careful when dealing with things that have a high voltage! And if you don’t find that kind of thing fun, just bring your stuff to the next fix-it-fair.”
