With the support of some representatives from the state, County Commission, and Carter County Schools, Carter County Proud continues to build momentum toward becoming a Keep Tennessee Beautiful affiliate. Group leader Edward Jordan said they have three seats open on the KTB board of directors, which will have a total of seven members.
KTB is the state branch of Keep America Beautiful, which provides educational outreach resources to local and state branches to promote a litter-free country.
“I cannot emphasize how important it is for us to move forward in joining KAB,” Jordan said. “We will reap benefits in our community in our battle against illegal dumping, burning and littering.”
As part of the group’s mission, Jordan has continually invited guest speakers to educate about these issues. Representatives from the state and local levels have spoken on the effects of litter and garbage burning as well as laws and programs that exist to fight these ills.
On Tuesday, Daniel Reed of the state Department of Environment and Conservation spoke to the group about the damaging environmental effects of illegal dumping and burning. Reed also detailed the process of reporting these crimes.
Carter Proud adopted a section of Milligan Highway for litter pickup, and hopes to inspire others to take similar action to end and reverse the damage of litter. The group plans to cleanup that section on July 9 and will be meeting at Happy Valley Elementary School at 9:30 a.m. All are welcome to join the cleanup effort and are encouraged to take before and after photos of their work.
To learn more about KTB, visit the Carter County Proud tent at the 50th annual Covered Bridge Celebration on the evenings of June 8 and 9. Those interested in joining the KTB Board should contact Jordan at shundra77@icloud.com. More information on the Proud group can be found on the Facebook page Carter County Proud.