We’ve all done it. You walk or drive by some litter. “Aww, that’s terrible.’ ‘Somebody should do something about that.’ ‘Litterbugs!’ You think sentiments like this, even say something to your companions. But, do you actually do something about it? If you are like most of us, probably not. (Ethel included, most of the time.). One man, Zachary Amos, decided to do something about it!
Zachary grew up in Guilford Lake, then moved to the Warren area around 2012, from there to Liberty. He has been a Newton Falls resident since 2022. He really cares about his adopted home town. He noticed recently that the litter problem has been gradually worsening. He started by picking up trash in the area around his home. That was a satisfying feeling; getting him outside, a little exercise and accomplishing something good. Then he moved on to other areas of concern.
Following a comment on Facebook, he tackled his first big job-the boat ramp by the park. Armed with his wheeled tub and a ‘grabber,’ it took him quite some time and effort. But soon the boat ramp was spotless. He shared his success on the Facebook page, 44444 the people. That piqued this reporter’s interest. Many people commented on his post, thanking him for his efforts, suggesting other places that need a little attention, and otherwise offering to help. To the people that want to join him, he appreciates the desire to help, but you don’t need to wait for him. Just get a ‘grabber’ and a bag and have at it! He has already worn out his first grabber, and has received a few donations to replace it.
Since starting this only last week, he has found it to be therapeutic to him. He does have anxiety and PTSD, so the time exercising in the out-of-doors is quite helpful for his peace of mind. Well, it is proving to be quite helpful to the Newton Falls area, too!
He noticed that many of the public trash containers were overflowing, making it difficult for everyone to take care of their trash. He wrote a letter to the city, and now they are being emptied more often, making it easier to keep the area clean. He extends his thanks to the city for their quick response.
As he completes one area, he walks around to find other areas of concern. He does this mostly on his own, but sometimes his partner Gabe helps him.
Since he is on foot, he does jobs within a 15-20 minute radius of his home. His hope is that after a month of heavy cleaning, he can return to areas for maintenance. There are a few hotspots where he knows he will have to return frequently. The city park is one of those hot spots, as it is an area of high traffic.
Zachary says he intends to keep this up as long as he has the health and time to do so. It’s a great way to give back to the community. Sometimes, the community gives back to him, as was the case with the Broad Street Station, and Guns N Hoses. Zac got lunch on them!
He is working with a friend to help create an app for areas of concern around Newton Falls. That should help others who want to help clean up the city, too.
Bigfoot must have heard about Zac and Gabe’s efforts, and is comfortable in the beauty of Newton Falls. If you are hunting treasure, hunting for Bigfoot, or just out for some exercise, why don’t you help out, too? Get a glove or a grabber, a container and get some exercise! Perhaps we can make this into a viral challenge and get more communities involved. If you would like to contact Zac regarding areas in need, suggestions or donations towards his efforts, please contact him at newtoncleanup@icloud.com. Who knows, Zac, you may have started something Big…
