Keep West Memphis Beautiful hosts successful bi-annual trash clean-up

Event continues to grow with each passing year

By DONALD WILBURN

donaldfwilburn@gmail.com

The bi-annual Keep West Memphis Beautiful trash clean-up event took place this past Saturday, bringing together an enthusiastic group of volunteers committed to beautifying the community. With 94 volunteers participating, the event collected approximately 100 bags of trash and debris, along with five tires and one mattress, contributing to a cleaner and more inviting environment for residents.

Established in 2012 by ordinance, Keep West Memphis Beautiful has organized both spring and fall clean-ups, fostering a spirit of community involvement and environmental responsibility. Organizers expressed their gratitude for the dedication of all volunteers, emphasizing the commitment it takes to spend a Saturday morning cleaning up litter and debris left behind by others.

City Council member Lorraine Mohammed, one of the event’s key organizers, highlighted the significant contribution of local students, “A special thanks to Wonderful Jr. High School Students who participated in the cleanup under the leadership of Mr Matthew Robinson and Mrs. Jones and also Ms.Pamela Wray sponsored The Academy of West Memphis students. All of these students received four hours of volunteer service!”

Lance Bell, a dedicated volunteer at every clean-up event, noted that this particular gathering saw the largest turnout he had experienced.

See CLEAN-UP, page A2

The fall cleanup had the biggest turnout of volunteers yet.

Photos Submitted

Volunteers worked hard cleaning up the city, stopping only to take a quick photo. Over 100 bags of refuse were collected by teams of teens, kids and adults all volunteering for a good cause.

These kids are doing their part to keep their school and city clean.

From page A1

He praised the involvement of the junior high students, emphasizing the importance of encouraging youth participation in community service. Bell also recognized the efforts of Lorraine Mohammed, commending her for her sincere concern for the cleanliness of West Memphis. He mentioned that while some local leaders were present, including Councilman Wayne Croom city council candidate Joseph Tucker and State Rep candidate Tammi Bell, there remains a need for greater community involvement to foster pride in the city.

The event, which lasted four hours, not only made a noticeable dent in the litter problem but also strengthened community bonds. The volunteers’ hard work showcased the spirit of cooperation and commitment that defines West Memphis, and organizers are hopeful for even more participation in future clean-up events.