Volunteers freshen up downtown Moscow

Pullman, WALocal News

Over 40 volunteers, including city employees and local residents, came together for a cleanup event in downtown Moscow, aiming to make the area more inviting. The initiative, led by Deputy City Administrator Tyler Palmer, is part of an annual effort to enhance the city’s cleanliness. Armed with grabber tools and trash bags, volunteers scoured sidewalks and tree wells, picking up litter that regular city cleaning services might miss. Local business owners Andrew and Sarah Tucker participated to show solidarity with their community, while Target employee Fernando Fernandez highlighted the importance of cleanliness for visitors. Palmer noted that this "micro-cleaning" is essential, especially as the city gears up for significant events like the Lionel Hampton Jazz Festival and university graduations.

The cleanup not only improves the environment but also fosters community spirit. Volunteers expressed their commitment to maintaining Moscow's unique character through such initiatives. With Earth Day approaching, the event resonated deeply with participants, emphasizing their dedication to a cleaner community.

Related Articles

Meetings

Local government meetings are scheduled throughout the week in Whitman and Latah counties, including sessions for city councils and planning commissions. Key meetings include the Whitman County Commissioners on Monday and the Moscow Urban Renewal Agency on Thursday. These gatherings provide residents opportunities to engage with local governance.

Berney to retire as counseling point man

Mike Berney, Executive Director of Palouse River Counseling, will retire in December after over 30 years of service, paving the way for Clinical Director Kathleen Stewardson to assume his role. Under Berney's leadership, the organization expanded significantly, enhancing mental health services across Whitman County. Berney expressed optimism for the future of behavioral health in the community.

Fire is not the enemy

Volunteers in north central Idaho conducted a controlled burn near Viola to reduce wildfire risks and enhance ecological health. Led by Heather Heward, the team emphasized the importance of fire as a tool for land management, likening it to medicine for wildlands. Participants included university students and local forestry professionals learning to adapt to fire’s role in the ecosystem.