Since Earth Day began in 1970, it has become a popular tradition in 192 countries. In Pulaski County, volunteers will celebrate Earth Day on April 22, 2014, by teaming together to pick up roadside litter during the sixth annual PRIDE Clean Sweep of US 27.

The PRIDE Clean Sweep will focus on US 27 through Somerset and Burnside, but volunteers may clean areas nearby. Safe, age-appropriate areas will be provided for groups with children.

Volunteers can pick up litter any time they choose between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m. At Noon, all volunteers are invited to The Center for Rural Development for a free cook-out and drawing for door prizes.

“This is a fun, rewarding event for volunteer groups, like businesses and schools,” said Tammie Wilson of PRIDE, one of the agencies that partners to host the Clean Sweep. “You can use it as a team-building or community-service activity. You’ll be in good company, because we had 947 volunteers last year, and we expect even more this year, since it coincides with Earth Day.”

“Nothing is more inviting to our visitor than a clean roadway and community, and the Clean Sweep of 27 provides that environment,” said Carolyn Mounce, Executive Director of the Somerset-Pulaski County Convention and Visitors Bureau, which is a sponsor of the Clean Sweep. “We are so appreciative of PRIDE and the many sponsors and volunteers for all their participation in the Clean Sweep. Our visitor will also be appreciative.”

“The beauty of Pulaski County is well known throughout Kentucky,” said Bobby Clue, Executive Director of the Somerset-Pulaski County Chamber of Commerce, a Clean Sweep partner. “By participating in the Highway 27 Clean Sweep, businesses have the opportunity to demonstrate personal responsibility by volunteering to pick up litter along roadsides and helping to preserve our local environment.”

“The Center staff members are proud to support the Clean Sweep by hosting the volunteer lunch and by volunteering to pick up litter,” said Lonnie Lawson, president and CEO of The Center for Rural Development, a Clean Sweep partner. “I invite other businesses and organizations to join us.”

Volunteer groups are encouraged to register before April 22. By doing so, they can reserve the section of US 27 they want to clean and receive their trash bags, gloves and safety vests early.

Volunteers also may register and receive their cleanup supplies on April 22. Day-of registration will begin at 8 a.m. at The Center for Rural Development, which is located at Traffic Light #15.

To register, please call the Somerset-Pulaski County Chamber of Commerce at 679-7323.

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Filed under: Spring Cleanup