Editorial

A special thank you

In the many efforts being made to beautify our communities and to get rid of accumulated litter, there are big projects and some anti-litter successes that receive little or no attention.

Today we pay tribute to those industrious individuals -- many of them known only to themselves or a handful of family and neighbors -- who choose to pick up whatever litter they see simply because it is a good thing to do.

You've seen them, no doubt, in your neighborhood or on your way to work.

They are the individuals who take early-morning or late-evening walks carrying trash bags to pick up stray soda cups and wrappers from someone else's snack.

They are the individuals who find picking up litter to be a good excuse for getting some exercise and fresh air instead of turning on the TV.

They are the individuals who would, for the most part, prefer no attention or special recognition for the fact that they try, every day, to make their community a better place to live.

They are the individuals who turn away questions from inquiring reporters who might turn them into celebrities, and who refuse to give on-the-scene photographers their names -- for the same reason.

They are the individuals who regard other people's messes as personal challenges.

They are the individuals who, instead of getting angry about litter, get busy.

And they are the individuals to whom we owe a huge debt of gratitude, because without them, our streets would be eyesores.

So thanks to all of you energetic and caring folks who take time to properly dispose of items that have been so carelessly and thoughtlessly discarded by others.

You know who you are. Thanks again.

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