Keep America Beautiful (KAB) of Nash and Edgecombe counties continually strives to educate and encourage citizens and groups to assist with cleanup efforts in Rocky Mount and the surrounding area. In recognition of those efforts, the agency recently held an awards ceremony for several local groups.
Guest speaker, Edgecombe County Sherriff Clee Atkinson, told the crowd that picking up trash is a responsibility that belongs to everyone.
“If you fail to pick up paper in your neighborhood, you are failing society; you are failing your neighborhood,” said Atkinson. “If a man or woman sees something wrong, you fix it. That’s it, you fix it.”
Michael’s Angels Girl’s Club and Northern Nash High School’s Environmental Club earned Volunteer of the Year honors. The award is given to individuals or groups in Nash County and in Edgecombe County for their leadership in volunteerism and their outstanding efforts in promoting KAB programs.
Presented annually to honor adoption groups who have completed their street cleanups on time each quarter and demonstrated outstanding leadership in promoting KAB’s mission, the KAB Adopt a Street of the Year Award was presented to Misses Ladies in Action and The Voice of Nashville, Inc.
The Sponsor of the Year Award was given to Cummins Rocky Mount Engine Plant in honor of their financial support of KAB and commitment to environmental stewardship. During America’s Recycles Day, Cummins sponsored the household hazard waste collection portion of the event, allowing residents the opportunity to dispose of waste such as paint and other items.
While most recipients were aware in advance of their awards, the KAB Board Member of the Year was taken completely by surprise. Miriam Espinosa, an environmental leader for Cummins Rocky Mount Engine Plant, was honored as Board Member of the Year for her commitment and dedication to KAB of Nash and Edgecombe counties.
Source: Tameka Kenan-Norman, City of Rocky Mount NC
