Cleanup Crew 'Chimes' In At Camden Yards To Overcome Hardships

BALTIMORE (WJZ)—Batting clean-up is an important job on any baseball team, so is cleaning up after a game is over.

Alex DeMetrick reports, at Camden Yards, it's more important than you might first think.

Even with an empty field at Camden Yards, a sweep is playing out. What gets dropped, spilled and left behind by fans after every game must vanish before the next pitch.

"We recycle. We trash out. We blow. We spray," said Kerry Banks, Chimes project manager.

Cleaning inside and out, a crew of 125 can remove debris in less than five hours, even after sellouts like Opening Day.

"Yes, we do. We gotta get it done," said James Coleman, crew member.

"Ain't no use squawking. Just gotta get it done. Just gotta keep it moving," said Wesley Robinson, crew member.

But for those doing the cleanup, this job is also a step up.

They all work for Chimes, a nonprofit whose mission is helping people overcome barriers in life.

"A problem with the law, could be homelessness, could be a disability, and those folks have come to us because we give them the opportunity to get back to the employment market," said Marty Lampner, president and CEO of Chimes.

"It's better for me, more better financially and being around good people. It's a nice place to work," Robinson said.

And the quality of the work has won Chimes similar competitive contracts with the Ravens and at stadiums along the East Coast.

While Chimes offers an opportunity to work, its purpose is anything but a last resort.

"We really hope we're going to lose some of these folks to employers who are out there looking for motivated workers," Lampner said.

So if you don't pick up after yourself, don't feel guilty.

"Naw, it keeps us at a good work pace," Banks said.

Because it is a nonprofit, Chimes depends partially on public support through donations and periodic fundraisers. The next is Chimes Fest on May 10, 6-10 p.m. at The Sofa Store on 1125 Cromwell Bridge Road in Towson.

The event will feature live music from Linda Nelson & The Rug Cutters, sample food from Liberatore's Ristorante, wines from Basignani and craft beer from DuClaw Brewing Company.

For sponsorship and ticket information, call 410-358-7774 or email mjackson@chimes.org.

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