Community Corner
“Artesia in Action” Cleans Up Junk On Streets
Community volunteers help beautify the neighborhood by clearing out old appliances and junk left on the streets.
Though often loaded with junk such as used mattresses, broken appliances and unwanted household items, the streets near in Artesia are now much cleaner thanks to the volunteers from “Artesia in Action” who helped clear out the old items that were not usually disposed of by trash pickups this past weekend.
Nearly 50 individuals showed up at 7 a.m. on Saturday, Feb. 11 to pick up street trash and go door-to-door to collect any items families wanted to get rid of. Teams were divided up to work at the four locations designated for large trash collection (Clarkdale Avenue/169th Street, the west end of the cul-de-sac of 168th Street, Clarkdale Avenue/Arkansas Street and Elaine Avenue/168th Street.)
This is the second project for the volunteer force, which launched their last August when they cleaned up a rundown property that was known to be a hangout spot for gang members.
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City Council members, Rotary Club members and members of New Life Community Church, , Cornerstone Community Church and took part in this community service project. The teams remained in the neighborhoods until about noon, collecting trash and various items including an old toilet seat.
“Events like this are always nice because you see people from all over the community come together, and it shows we are not a divided community,” said Artesia Mayor John P. Lyon. “People come from everywhere to help every one … It helps bring the community together as a whole.”
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Mayor Lyon mentioned that they’ve received letters from people in the community thanking the volunteers for their services. Senior citizens have also expressed gratitude for the clean ups, since many times they are unable get rid of a lot of heavy items in their houses.
“We’re here to promote volunteerism and help benefit the community,” said volunteer Brad Beach. “It’s a rewarding experience and I think we all need to give back to the community — it’s a worthwhile cause.”
For more information on how to get involved with the volunteer group, contact the city of Artesia at (562) 865-6262 or contact New Life Community Church.