Litter Lifters

Bob, Rob, Ruth Ann, Rose, Mary, Tyler,

RheaLynn, John

As thoughtless travelers toss trash out of car windows along Highway 69 corridor, citizens who take pride in keeping highways clean and beautiful pick up the litter they leave behind. Our family adopted a one mile portion of SR 69 and between Mayer and Spring Valley in 1998 in memory of Jason Pruitt. In the beginning it helped the healing process but over the years it has slowly evolved into an excuse to bond and socialize with family and friends. Two times each year, usually on Mother's Day and in November, we gather at Spring Valley, don a bright orange vest, grab some blue bags, divide into groups and tackle the litter. Passing motorist occasionally offer approval and support with a blast of their horns.

We have two new recruits, Tyler is old enough now to be part of the crew and John is now part of the family since marrying Tonya April 25th. After the work is done we have lunch and swap stories about things we've picked up, sometimes odd and quirky items are found and it provides a good laugh. This Mother's Day pop had burgers on the grill when we returned both tired and hungry. It is a rewarding experience as well as a way to give back something to the community, a great way to bond and.........it's FUN.