Editor, Gazette-Journal:

Today is my peculiar anniversary—I have been picking up cigarette butts in Mathews Court House for two years. Although they seem like a small thing to toss on the ground, they are really quite toxic to our water supply and very slow at decomposing. I have picked up 30,067 butts in this time period, as well as, surprisingly, almost $40.

Thanks to all the folks who help clean up the town as well, and to any who have quit tossing their butts, I am especially grateful. I will be moving out of the area soon, so this is my last butt report. Please help keep Mathews clean and beautiful.

Kathy Duhon

Mathews, Va. ...