The Great 191 Trash Cleanup is scheduled for September 21, 2024, from 9 AM to Noon on Highway 191 between Midland and Odessa. This event is to help prepare the region for the upcoming Special Olympics Texas–Law Enforcement Torch Run on October 4th.
Over 2,500 athletes and 5,000 spectators are expected for the Fall Classic. The cleanup is to help the Permian Basin present a well-maintained environment, according to a press release.
Keith Stelter started the cleanup efforts earlier this year in response to the litter across Odessa and Midland. His efforts have brought together volunteers and local companies to clean up the area in preparation for the visiting athletes and their families.
"We started doing trash cleanups earlier this year with area companies, and it’s grown! Now we’ve been asked to help with cleaning for the Special Olympics Fall Classics, and we always need more help," Stelter told Midland Times during an interview.
The City of Midland is also preparing to host the Special Olympics Texas Fall Classic from October 3-5. This state tournament moved from Bryan-College Station to Midland-Odessa and will feature events across both cities such as swimming, golf, equestrian, bocce, and softball.
Local leaders, including Midland Mayor Lori Blong and Odessa Mayor Javier Joven, are encouraging residents to participate in and support the cleanup and the Fall Classic. Special Olympics Texas CEO Tim Martin praised the collaboration between Midland and Odessa, as an opportunity to prepare the region for the event.
Numerous local businesses and officials, including Texas Senator Kevin Sparks, Midland Times, Lufkin/Don-Nan, Coca-Cola, Republic Services, and Maze Environmental, are supporting the efforts.
To join The Great 191 Cleanup or for more information, contact Keith Stelter at 817.845.9997 or via email at k.stelter@mazeenviro.com. More details about the Special Olympics Texas Fall Classic can be found on their official website, sotx.org/fall-classic.