Newly-formed Green Team set to make debut

MURPHY (February 19, 2011) The City of Murphy, long known for taking pride in its natural beauty, is preparing to participate once again in the National Great American Cleanup, sponsored by the Keep America Beautiful organization, according to Community Services Manager Kim Lenoir. The Great American Cleanup is the nation's largest community improvement program and takes place annually from March 1 through May 31, involving an estimated three million volunteers and attendees.
The number of volunteers for the three-month campaign in Murphy has varied in the past, but this year, local organizers expect to attract 500 people to participate. “This is our fifth year participating in the national campaign, and it is one of the ways that we involve the community in keeping our city clean and attractive,” said Lenoir.

Activities during the 90-day cleanup include beautifying parks and recreation areas, cleaning waterways, handling recycling collections, picking up litter, planting trees and flowers, and conducting educational programs and litter-free events. “We’re very excited about this year’s program because it marks the inaugural year of the City of Murphy Green Team, an interdepartmental group of City employees who have pledged to form the vanguard of keeping Murphy clean and beautiful,” she added.

While the Green Team will be very active throughout the three-month campaign, the City is seeking community volunteer groups to step forward and be part of the effort. “Homeowner associations, service clubs, school groups, business associations, retiree organizations, interested individuals, and other local for-profit and non-profit organizations from every part of the City are encouraged to step forward and participate in our program,” she said. Groups and organizations wishing to assist and obtain more information, should contact Kim Lenoir at (972) 468- 4068 or klenoir@murphytx.org.