Assisting in the coordination of the St. John the Baptist Parish Clean Sweep Event and serving as a committee member on the Keep St. John Beautiful Committee for the past four years has opened my eyes to a major problem that, if addressed, could increase property value, decrease some drainage concerns and beautify the community.

While littering may seem insignificant to some, a piece of paper takes two to five months to degrade, a plastic bag takes 10 to 20 years and an orange peel takes six months.

LITTER is a problem, and the solution starts with ME!

I have always been taught, “littering is wrong.”

It was not until I became a part of the St. John the Baptist Parish Annual Clean Sweep event that I realized the severity of the problem and the issue at hand.

I challenge you to become aware of the litter that surrounds your home, church, school or neighborhood.

Help Keep St. John Beautiful and pick it up today, and pick it up tomorrow!

The SJBP Clean Sweep event provides an opportunity to clean up and beautify the community we call home.

On Sept. 20, over 300 volunteers will clean major thoroughfares, roadways, neighborhoods and parks.

All community members, including families, organizations, church groups and volunteers are invited to join in the clean up effort.

To participate in Keeping St. John Beautiful, register by contacting Dana Milioto at 985-652-9569, visiting sjbparish.com or arriving at the Highway 51 Park at 8:30 a.m. Sept. 20.

Following the cleanup efforts, food, music and fun are offered to celebrate at 11:30 a.m. at Highway 51 Park.

Paige Falgoust is communications director for St. John the Baptist Parish.