Editor, Gazette-Journal:

I would like to send out a big appreciation to all of those that helped in the roadside cleanup in Mathews on Saturday, Nov. 19. I know that many caring individuals, as well as entire families, Boy Scout and Cub Scout troops, Rotarians, and members of the FBLA club were out there giving their time.

It is so good to live in a community where the residents take pride in where they live. The litter collection day seems to be such a great way to show this support and to bring residents of the community together to build stronger bonds. What was especially nice was to see how many young people were involved, learning a lesson that will last a lifetime.

I also wanted to thank Jonathan Putt, executive director of the Mathews Visitor Center, for helping to organize the event. He was able to get over 70 people involved in this weekend’s event. The Visitor Center is really interested in growing this event which takes place twice a year; once in the fall and once...