Job Title: Executive Director
Part-time, (20 hours per week)
Keep Carbondale Beautiful, Inc., a nonprofit organization, seeks a part-time Executive Director to manage the day-to-day operations of our program that promotes beautification, environmental education, recycling and litter eradication in Carbondale. A thorough knowledge of the community, initiative, ability to handle details, and excellent communication skills, both written and oral, are required. Please send statement of interest and resume to Board President Sandy Litecky at slitecky2@gmail.com.
This position has a salary of $1200/month but has no benefits package. It reports to the President of the Board of Directors. The Board is a working board, involved in execution of select activities of KCB.
DUTIES (JOB DESCRIPTION) FOR EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
1.Manage the day-to-day operations of Keep Carbondale Beautiful (KCB); including supervision of volunteers and students and maintenance of appropriate files.
2. Maintain outreach and networking systems for KCB (website and other social media).
3. Represent KCB at meetings, forums, community groups, etc.
4. Recruit, train, and oversee volunteers and interns.
5. Prepare reports, summaries, other data required by KCB for program planning and board action.
6. Submit required reports to Keep America Beautiful and Keep Illinois Beautiful and the City of Carbondale.
7. Receive money, make deposits and pay bills in a timely manner, working with the Treasurer. Maintain membership list.
9. Complete grant applications and implement other fundraising efforts.
10.Execute 2 tree sales yearly and community wide cleanup day during Earth Week, in conjunction with the Board of Directors.
11. Plan and execute litter cleanups throughout the year, throughout the Carbondale community.
12. Other duties as assigned.
The following are physical skills that are used on the job:
Part-time, (20 hours per week)
Keep Carbondale Beautiful, Inc., a nonprofit organization, seeks a part-time Executive Director to manage the day-to-day operations of our program that promotes beautification, environmental education, recycling and litter eradication in Carbondale. A thorough knowledge of the community, initiative, ability to handle details, and excellent communication skills, both written and oral, are required. Please send statement of interest and resume to Board President Sandy Litecky at slitecky2@gmail.com.
This position has a salary of $1200/month but has no benefits package. It reports to the President of the Board of Directors. The Board is a working board, involved in execution of select activities of KCB.
DUTIES (JOB DESCRIPTION) FOR EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
1.Manage the day-to-day operations of Keep Carbondale Beautiful (KCB); including supervision of volunteers and students and maintenance of appropriate files.
2. Maintain outreach and networking systems for KCB (website and other social media).
3. Represent KCB at meetings, forums, community groups, etc.
4. Recruit, train, and oversee volunteers and interns.
5. Prepare reports, summaries, other data required by KCB for program planning and board action.
6. Submit required reports to Keep America Beautiful and Keep Illinois Beautiful and the City of Carbondale.
7. Receive money, make deposits and pay bills in a timely manner, working with the Treasurer. Maintain membership list.
9. Complete grant applications and implement other fundraising efforts.
10.Execute 2 tree sales yearly and community wide cleanup day during Earth Week, in conjunction with the Board of Directors.
11. Plan and execute litter cleanups throughout the year, throughout the Carbondale community.
12. Other duties as assigned.
The following are physical skills that are used on the job:
- Hold a valid diver license
- Lifting of 20+ pounds in supplies, signs, exhibits
- Manual dexterity for computer operations, cell phone
- Verbal ability to make presentations, use of the telephone
For more information about the Spring Cleanup CLICK HERE
Keep Carbondale Beautiful initiates, plans, and directs cooperative efforts in litter control, recycling, community beautification, and environmental education.
We are a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization that has been serving the Southern Illinois community since 1987 (initially as "Carbondale Clean & Green") and we are an affiliate of Keep Illinois Beautiful and Keep America Beautiful.
We are a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization that has been serving the Southern Illinois community since 1987 (initially as "Carbondale Clean & Green") and we are an affiliate of Keep Illinois Beautiful and Keep America Beautiful.
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*Here is some quick info on our trees, this is not a complete list nor is it always guaranteed to be in stock at the time of tree sale*
Acer saccharum
Sugar Maple ... a large shade tree with excellent form. Famous for its prized syrup, ... fabulous fall color ... grows in a variety of soil types but prefers a rich, well-drained soil. Height: 60-75 feet.
Asimina triloba
*Pawpaw* is a multi-stemmed shrub or small tree is a great plant for attracting all kinds of wildlife. Pawpaw's yellowish fruit is relished by many birds and small mammals. Pawpaw spreads slowly to form small colonies or thickets, providing good cover for a variety of wildlife. Generally considered deer resistant.
Betula nigra
River Birch distinctive bark; good for rain gardens and erosion control -- prefers moist, well-drained soil, but tolerates dry; prefers deep, rich soils, but will grow in clay soils. Grow as single trunk or as a multi-stemmed tree. Height: 40-70 feet.
 Carpinus caroliniana
Carpinus caroliniana*
*American Hornbeam* is a handsome small- to medium-sized tree with multiple stems that forms wide, horizontal canopy. Good fall color. Beautiful thin, blue-gray bark is ornamental. Height 20-40' Carya illinoinensis
Pecan The largest member of the hickory family (with the sweetest nuts!). Prefers rich, moist soils. Tall straight trunk with symmetrical, broadly oval crown. Height: 70-100 feet.
Carya ovata
*Shagbark Hickory* Highly adaptable species for landscape use. The gray to brown bark peels off in thin sections. and golden brown tones. Produces large, edible hickory nuts. A long lived tree. They are considered to produce a lot of 'litter'(bark and nuts) so place accordingly. Height: 60-80 feet. [These trees will come small, but they are hard to find.] Look here, too.
Celtis occidentalis
*Hackberry* is a reliable, fast-growing, all-purpose shade tree. Hackberry's pyramidal shape when young then develops a broad crown with ascending branches. The leaves are medium green. Fall foliage is a soft yellow. Birds and wildlife relish the small, fleshy fall fruit.
Cercis canadensis
Redbud native favorite and harbinger of spring that explodes with rosy pink flowers in April. Native Eastern Redbud does well in sun to dappled shade. Adapts to any average garden soil. Height: 20-25
Chionanthus virginicus
Fringetree. Shimmering, white fringed flowers cover Fringetree in May or June followed by small, round fall fruit on female trees. leaves often turn bright yellow in fall. Grow in part sun to shade as a small tree or shrub. Beautiful as a single specimen or planted in groups.
Cladastris kentukea/lutea
Yellowwood is an excellent, medium-sized specimen tree, with light green compound leaves turning gold in fall. Spectacular panicles of fragrant, creamy-white spring flowers. Yellowwood bark is very smooth and gray. This is an underused, beautiful native tree.
Cornus alternifolia
Pagoda Dogwood Classic white flowers in spring. Spreading, low-branched tree with horizontal habit and burgundy fall foliage. Good alternative to cold-sensitive Flowering Dogwood. Height: 15-25 feet.
Cornus florida
Limited quantities for Fall 2016
Flowering Dogwood Favorite companion to redbuds; understory tree that likes shade, but needs well-drained soil. Provides food and cover for watchable wildlife. Height: 15-30 feet. Fagus grandiflora
American Beech is a large tree, with a dense, oval to round crown and smooth, silvery-gray bark. The leaves are dark green, simple and sparsely-toothed with small teeth. The fruit is a small, sharply-angled nut, borne in pairs in a soft-spined, four-lobed husk.
Gymnocladus dioicus
Kentucky Coffeetree Native shade tree with interesting shape, deeply furrowed bark; adapts to wide variety of sites. Height: 60-80 feet.
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Juglans nigra *
*Black Walnut* Not a great urban tree - it poisons its neighbors and produces litter which stains. BUT if you have enough land, it is disease-resistant and makes beautiful wood.
Liriodendron tulipifera
Tulip Poplar - a stately tree. Pyramidal when young, rounded when mature. Leaves turn golden yellow in fall. Tulip-shaped summer flowers followed by interesting fruit. Height: 70-90 feet.
Magnolia acuminata
Cucumber Tree the largest of the Magnolias, the Cucumber Tree is an excellent shade tree. ... has coarse textured leaves with greenish white fragrant flowers. Height: 50-80 feet.
Nyssa sylvatica
Black Gum rivals anything for fall color with spectrum of glowing shades. Fruit is favored by many birds. This is not a sweetgum tree.
Ostrya virginiana *
*Eastern Hophornbeam* understory tree with a dense pyramidal shape and attractive bladder-like seed pods. Disease- and pest-resistant. Height: 25-40 feet
Pinus echinata
Shortleaf Pine occurs in dry, sandy or rocky upland areas, but tolerates a wide range of soils. Medium-sized, fast-growing with short pyramidal crown that broadens with age. Migrating butterflies use Shortleaf Pine for roosting. Height: 50-60 feet.
Platanus occidentalis
Sycamore Thrives on nearly any site; develops a massive trunk with an open wide-spreading crown and has leaves that can grow to nine inches in width. In winter, Sycamore's characteristic large patches of creamy white inner bark are prominent making it a winter landscape standout. Height: 75-100 feet
Quercus alba
White Oak a large, majestic, and long-lived oak that holds year long interest. Our state tree in Illinois. Round-lobed leaves and smooth, medium-sized acorns. Height: 45-50 feet; can be as wide as it is tall.
Quercus bicolor
*Swamp White Oak* is a large tree with broad crown. Leaves turn varied shades in fall from bronze to red.
Quercus macrocarpa
Bur Oak has the largest acorns and leaves of all the oaks. Slow-growing and long-lived, it has a magnificent form in old age. Brown fall foliage persists all winter. Height: 50-60 feet.
Quercus shumardii
*Shumard Oak* is a huge, bottomland tree considered the southern counterpart to the Northern Red Oak. In fall, it shows good red color and is one of the first of the season to change.
Quercus phellos
Willow Oak has foliage shaped like beefy willow leaves that turn yellow to russet red in fall. Typically found in moist bottomland soils but adapts to a wide range of soil conditions including clays with somewhat poor drainage. Generally tolerant of urban pollution. A 2005 Missouri Botanical Garden Plants of Merit winner. Height 30-40' Quercus texana
*Nuttall Oak* offers richer red fall color, better branching structure, and higher transplant survival than other oaks.
Sassafras albidum
Sassafras In early spring, clusters of small yellow flowers smother the tree. In the summer, fragrant leaves occur in a variety of shapes (even on the same branch). In the fall, Sassafras leaves take on colors ranging from purple to scarlet. BTW - Tea is disrecommended now. Spreads through root sprouts. Height: 30-60 feet.
Taxodium distichum
Bald Cypress Bald Cypress is a deciduous conifer, with medium-fine, needle-like leave that are soft-textured and light green in summer but turn rusty brown in winter before they drop. Great choice for compacted, urban sites where soil oxygen is low. Height: 50-70 ft.; Full sun; does very well in wet sites
Tilia americana
American Basswood (aka Linden) American Basswood (or Linden) is a stately tree with fragrant, yellow, spring flowers. Its high-quality nectar attracts bees and other pollinators. Fall foliage is deep yellow.
Height: 60-75 ft. Full sun |
February business Bright Spot
Hue of Blue Tattoo Shop Wins February Business Bright Spot Award!
Driving along the downtown “strip” of Carbondale, on the left hand side of the
intersection of College and Illinois Ave, one has likely noticed an indescribable and
particular shade of blue painted building on a corner lot building. Artistic Mind Tattoo
shop, 520 S. Illinois Ave, is the February Keep Carbondale Beautiful Business Bright
Spot award winner. Owner of Artistic Minds Tattoo shop, John Patrick Beyler, or “J.P.”,
and crew renovated and finished most of the exterior and interior at the start of 2020.
Previously, a somewhat crumbling black and white building, had been a long time
doctor’s office and a spiritual shop before sitting vacant for almost a decade, an artist's
touch breathed new life into the space.
Having owned and operated a tattoo shop since 2008, J.P. states, “I always
wanted to be on the strip downtown”
J.P. decided on the specific shade of paint by taking a swatch of a favorite teal
blue tattoo ink and having a custom color created at the hardware store. Clean black lines
box in and frame the windows and lines of the Tudor style facade. Preserved, vintage,
city light fixtures are posted in the parking lot and tie in well with the revamped space.
On the far side of the corner is an adjacent shop, a cheerful green wall offsets and
compliments the blue, is also a planned detail in the space. Painted black wrought iron
fence frames the corner of the parking lot for clients. Plans for possible garden space and
or a small free library/book exchange along the College Ave sidewalk are being
considered for future projects by the owner.
The Keep Carbondale Beautiful, Inc., Board selects businesses or residences to receive
the Bright Spot Award for enhancing the beauty of our community by means of
KEEP CARBONDALE BEAUTIFUL, INC.
PO Box 1326, Carbondale, IL 62903-1326
E-mail keepcb1326@gmail.com 618-525-5525
revitalization of property, new construction, plantings and beautification, upkeep and
maintenance, or rehabilitation. If you would like to nominate a business or residence to
receive the Award, please call the Keep Carbondale Beautiful office at 525-5525 or email
keepcb1326@gmail.com. Archives of some past Bright Spot Award winners may be
found at keepcb.org.
Driving along the downtown “strip” of Carbondale, on the left hand side of the
intersection of College and Illinois Ave, one has likely noticed an indescribable and
particular shade of blue painted building on a corner lot building. Artistic Mind Tattoo
shop, 520 S. Illinois Ave, is the February Keep Carbondale Beautiful Business Bright
Spot award winner. Owner of Artistic Minds Tattoo shop, John Patrick Beyler, or “J.P.”,
and crew renovated and finished most of the exterior and interior at the start of 2020.
Previously, a somewhat crumbling black and white building, had been a long time
doctor’s office and a spiritual shop before sitting vacant for almost a decade, an artist's
touch breathed new life into the space.
Having owned and operated a tattoo shop since 2008, J.P. states, “I always
wanted to be on the strip downtown”
J.P. decided on the specific shade of paint by taking a swatch of a favorite teal
blue tattoo ink and having a custom color created at the hardware store. Clean black lines
box in and frame the windows and lines of the Tudor style facade. Preserved, vintage,
city light fixtures are posted in the parking lot and tie in well with the revamped space.
On the far side of the corner is an adjacent shop, a cheerful green wall offsets and
compliments the blue, is also a planned detail in the space. Painted black wrought iron
fence frames the corner of the parking lot for clients. Plans for possible garden space and
or a small free library/book exchange along the College Ave sidewalk are being
considered for future projects by the owner.
The Keep Carbondale Beautiful, Inc., Board selects businesses or residences to receive
the Bright Spot Award for enhancing the beauty of our community by means of
KEEP CARBONDALE BEAUTIFUL, INC.
PO Box 1326, Carbondale, IL 62903-1326
E-mail keepcb1326@gmail.com 618-525-5525
revitalization of property, new construction, plantings and beautification, upkeep and
maintenance, or rehabilitation. If you would like to nominate a business or residence to
receive the Award, please call the Keep Carbondale Beautiful office at 525-5525 or email
keepcb1326@gmail.com. Archives of some past Bright Spot Award winners may be
found at keepcb.org.
Love Our Earth Litter Pick Up 2/12/22
Gathering February 12th, 9 a.m. to noon, 801 E. Main, at the Ashley Furniture Warehouse, a Valentines days themed litter pick up is hosted by Keep Carbondale Beautiful. Volunteers are asked to wear red, pink or purple for group photos. Bags, gloves, litter grabbers and vests will be provided. Walking routes will be directed by members of Keep Carbondale Beautiful. Love Our Earth litter pick up is open to students and community members. Weather is expected to be mild but no inclement conditions. For more information, contact Anne Krippenstapel, 618 525 5525 or keepcb1326@gmail.com
MLK Service Day a Huge Success!
Thank you to everyone who came out, braved the cold and helped pick up our park!
Updating our Adopt A Spot program 1/15/22
With the changes of the pandemic and various groups in Carbondale coming and going, we are trying to update our Adopt A Spot locations/routes. We are asking still active groups to reach out and let us know that they are still active on their taken routes (with signs) and groups that are active (without signs) need to contact KCB. We will be taking down old signs and updating and opening up new various spots to be claimed around town! We want to encourage and acknowledge our hardworking volunteers!
"Love to Mother Earth" Clean Up event! 1/14/22
We want to give back this upcoming Valentines Day with a little love to our planet! The Saturday before Valentines day 2/12/22 we will be conducting a community wide litter cleanup. Asking volunteers to wear red/pink for some thematic photos at the end (if you don't, that's ok too!) Keep Carbondale Beautiful will provide gloves/bags and fun! Location will be at 801 E. Main(floodplain park). We will announce it again as the date draws closer.
1/12/22 Cellar Patio Wins January Bright Spot Award
Owners and operators of the local bar, The Cellar, Michelle and Paul Stokes,
renovated the brick building and outdoor space between Cristaudo’s and The Cellar.
The transformation started in the spring of 2019 and took 6 months. What had been a
grassy, over-grown spot, could have been destined to be a parking lot, became a little
hideaway, outdoor lounge retreat.
2020 hit the world hard, there was no ribbon cutting or celebration for the new
outdoor beer garden and building. What it did though, was provide a safer space for
customers to congregate in a familiar, well-ventilated atmosphere. While operations
have been unpredictable, due to CDC guidelines and shutdowns, the small area has
provided safe community, activity space. Pop-up events, supporting local artists brought
small, safe, public gatherings to the people of Carbondale.
Michelle states, “we wanted a beautiful, inviting space where people of all ages
feel comfortable hanging out.”
The space certainly brings a broad appeal, filament light bulbs overhead suspend
like little stars over inviting, cobalt blue deep cushioned patio lounge furniture. The
pergolas along the wall and edges, provide an oasis-like relief from the midday sun.
Round tables with long seated chairs gather around the outpost building, making
amenities easier to access, and is certified by ADA, American Disability Act.
Coordinated color planter pots of rescued cactus and beloved yucca plants bring a
curated green space feel. Leashed, well behaved pets are welcomed as well.
Michelle and Paul both agree, “we want to keep downtown looking more inviting.
We all do well when we work together, helping one another remains important to us.”
The Keep Carbondale Beautiful, Inc., Board selects businesses or residences to receive the
Bright Spot Award for enhancing the beauty of our community by means of revitalization of property,
new construction, plantings and beautification, upkeep and maintenance, or rehabilitation
If you would like to nominate a business or residence to receive the Award, please call the Keep
Carbondale Beautiful office at 525-5525 or email keepcb1326@gmail.com.
renovated the brick building and outdoor space between Cristaudo’s and The Cellar.
The transformation started in the spring of 2019 and took 6 months. What had been a
grassy, over-grown spot, could have been destined to be a parking lot, became a little
hideaway, outdoor lounge retreat.
2020 hit the world hard, there was no ribbon cutting or celebration for the new
outdoor beer garden and building. What it did though, was provide a safer space for
customers to congregate in a familiar, well-ventilated atmosphere. While operations
have been unpredictable, due to CDC guidelines and shutdowns, the small area has
provided safe community, activity space. Pop-up events, supporting local artists brought
small, safe, public gatherings to the people of Carbondale.
Michelle states, “we wanted a beautiful, inviting space where people of all ages
feel comfortable hanging out.”
The space certainly brings a broad appeal, filament light bulbs overhead suspend
like little stars over inviting, cobalt blue deep cushioned patio lounge furniture. The
pergolas along the wall and edges, provide an oasis-like relief from the midday sun.
Round tables with long seated chairs gather around the outpost building, making
amenities easier to access, and is certified by ADA, American Disability Act.
Coordinated color planter pots of rescued cactus and beloved yucca plants bring a
curated green space feel. Leashed, well behaved pets are welcomed as well.
Michelle and Paul both agree, “we want to keep downtown looking more inviting.
We all do well when we work together, helping one another remains important to us.”
The Keep Carbondale Beautiful, Inc., Board selects businesses or residences to receive the
Bright Spot Award for enhancing the beauty of our community by means of revitalization of property,
new construction, plantings and beautification, upkeep and maintenance, or rehabilitation
If you would like to nominate a business or residence to receive the Award, please call the Keep
Carbondale Beautiful office at 525-5525 or email keepcb1326@gmail.com.
MLK SERVICE DAY! 1/17/22
MLK Service Day Litter Clean Up. Meet at Attucks park, 800 N. Wall St. 9 a.m. to noon! Gloves/Bags and grabbers provided. Hope to see you out with us! Wear weather appropriate clothing. Thunder/Lightening will cancel.
March of 2021 saw the beginning of revitalization of 1224
W. Main st, Carbondale, TJ’s Fine Jewelry and repair. Previously a
sun faded pink, consignment clothing shop has been revamped into
a sleek, slate gray, updated jewelry shop.
The overhaul took 4 months, T.J. Martin and partner, Theresa
DiMauro, wanted a minimalist, southwest desert impression. Four
stately columns received a layered, rock-face façade that match the
main building nicely. Lava stones frame the shimmery black
granite gravel with a small arranged rock garden. The inorganic,
mineral texture, subtly suggests a clean and dry elemental design.
A glossy, shoe polish black paint job border ties off the top of the
building.
Peering into the shop, is an equally cool grey that
underscores and highlights its shiny wares. Various selected
modern art pieces bring an almost museum like quality to the
interior. Though minimal on greenery, there are plans for more
vegetation for next year.
The Keep Carbondale Beautiful, Inc., Board selects
businesses or residences to receive the Bright Spot Award for
enhancing the beauty of our community by means of revitalization
of property, new construction, plantings and beautification, upkeep
and maintenance, or rehabilitation.
W. Main st, Carbondale, TJ’s Fine Jewelry and repair. Previously a
sun faded pink, consignment clothing shop has been revamped into
a sleek, slate gray, updated jewelry shop.
The overhaul took 4 months, T.J. Martin and partner, Theresa
DiMauro, wanted a minimalist, southwest desert impression. Four
stately columns received a layered, rock-face façade that match the
main building nicely. Lava stones frame the shimmery black
granite gravel with a small arranged rock garden. The inorganic,
mineral texture, subtly suggests a clean and dry elemental design.
A glossy, shoe polish black paint job border ties off the top of the
building.
Peering into the shop, is an equally cool grey that
underscores and highlights its shiny wares. Various selected
modern art pieces bring an almost museum like quality to the
interior. Though minimal on greenery, there are plans for more
vegetation for next year.
The Keep Carbondale Beautiful, Inc., Board selects
businesses or residences to receive the Bright Spot Award for
enhancing the beauty of our community by means of revitalization
of property, new construction, plantings and beautification, upkeep
and maintenance, or rehabilitation.
Christmas has come to Carbondale, and certainly no yard and home is more apparent than
December Bright Spot winner, 209 and 207 S. Glenview. David and Kristy Robinson have lived at the
busy intersection for 33 years. Every year the display grows. This year, the cheerful corner boasts 22
reindeer, musical dogs and a life sized Santa sleigh with landing spot, just to describe a fraction of the
yuletide compilation.
Kristy, lovingly and fittingly referred to by her husband as “Christmas”, says they love adding
to the collection and try to get local artist’s crafts who make holiday themed works. David relates, “it
takes us about 2 weeks, even with help from friends and family, to get everything set up”. There is a
drop box for local children to write letters to Santa Claus, which get returned to the parents in the
neighborhood. An assembly of various lighted animals are seasonally decked out. Candy canes and
colorful lights tie the illuminated winter wonderland together.
The Keep Carbondale Beautiful, Inc., Board selects businesses or residences to receive the
Bright Spot Award for enhancing the beauty of our community by means of revitalization of property,
new construction, plantings and beautification, upkeep and maintenance, or rehabilitation
If you would like to nominate a business or residence to receive the Award, please call the Keep
Carbondale Beautiful office at 525-5525 or email keepcb1326@gmail.com. Archives of some past
Bright Spot Award winners may be found at keepcb.org.
December Bright Spot winner, 209 and 207 S. Glenview. David and Kristy Robinson have lived at the
busy intersection for 33 years. Every year the display grows. This year, the cheerful corner boasts 22
reindeer, musical dogs and a life sized Santa sleigh with landing spot, just to describe a fraction of the
yuletide compilation.
Kristy, lovingly and fittingly referred to by her husband as “Christmas”, says they love adding
to the collection and try to get local artist’s crafts who make holiday themed works. David relates, “it
takes us about 2 weeks, even with help from friends and family, to get everything set up”. There is a
drop box for local children to write letters to Santa Claus, which get returned to the parents in the
neighborhood. An assembly of various lighted animals are seasonally decked out. Candy canes and
colorful lights tie the illuminated winter wonderland together.
The Keep Carbondale Beautiful, Inc., Board selects businesses or residences to receive the
Bright Spot Award for enhancing the beauty of our community by means of revitalization of property,
new construction, plantings and beautification, upkeep and maintenance, or rehabilitation
If you would like to nominate a business or residence to receive the Award, please call the Keep
Carbondale Beautiful office at 525-5525 or email keepcb1326@gmail.com. Archives of some past
Bright Spot Award winners may be found at keepcb.org.
Planting A Park
by Mike Baltz
It’s not every day that you’re present at the creation of a park, right? Parks are usually things that have been there for who know how long and are populated with mature trees. But last week, a couple dozen volunteers planted a park on part of three acres along Route 13 owned by the city of Carbondale. The site is east of the Ashley Furniture Store and directly adjacent west of Pyles Fork Creek. It
was the previous location of an Econo Lodge but is now considered commercially untenable due to flooding issues.
Anne Krippenstapel, Executive Director of Keep Carbondale Beautiful, saw the open space as an opportunity to beautify Carbondale and she did something about it.
Krippenstapel applied for and received a grant from the Illinois Forestry Development Council to plant native trees and wildflowers on the site. I visited the site with Krippenstapel earlier this week, just a few days after the site had been
planted. She explained that a lot of thought had to go into deciding which trees to plant. First and foremost, the trees had to be species native to southern Illinois, but they also had to be species that could handle the poorly drained soils of the site. Of course, the trees also had to be available at a local nursery.
Finally, the trees could not be on the City’s ‘banned tree’ list that includes almost forty species including many native tree species like sycamore, hickory, persimmon, and sweet gum. Krippenstapel explained that placement of trees on the site was also very intentional. Flowering trees including magnolia, flowering dogwood and Eastern redbuds, were planted closer to the road. Less showy trees like oaks, beech, and water tupelo were planted closer to the creek. In addition to trees, there will be a large ‘pollinator garden’ close to the road. And while the trees will take a few years to get big enough to be impressive, the pollinator garden should be a noticeable aspect of the park right away. Krippenstapel was quick to point out that the creation of the park was a group effort. She especially noted the help of Kevin Rohling, University of Illinois Extension, with the writing of the grant for the park. And several people working for the City of Carbondale helped her through the process, up to and including digging the holes for the trees!
I asked Anne if there was a name for the park and she said it might be called the Keep Carbondale Beautiful Park. Personally, I love the idea! A Keep Carbondale Beautiful Park in the middle to town, along busy Route 13 will be a daily, calming reminder to slow down and admire the beauty of southern Illinois. And although the site will never become ‘wilderness’, the birds and butterflies using the site in the years to come won’t care. Neither will the groundhog we watched inspecting the new park during my visit!
by Mike Baltz
It’s not every day that you’re present at the creation of a park, right? Parks are usually things that have been there for who know how long and are populated with mature trees. But last week, a couple dozen volunteers planted a park on part of three acres along Route 13 owned by the city of Carbondale. The site is east of the Ashley Furniture Store and directly adjacent west of Pyles Fork Creek. It
was the previous location of an Econo Lodge but is now considered commercially untenable due to flooding issues.
Anne Krippenstapel, Executive Director of Keep Carbondale Beautiful, saw the open space as an opportunity to beautify Carbondale and she did something about it.
Krippenstapel applied for and received a grant from the Illinois Forestry Development Council to plant native trees and wildflowers on the site. I visited the site with Krippenstapel earlier this week, just a few days after the site had been
planted. She explained that a lot of thought had to go into deciding which trees to plant. First and foremost, the trees had to be species native to southern Illinois, but they also had to be species that could handle the poorly drained soils of the site. Of course, the trees also had to be available at a local nursery.
Finally, the trees could not be on the City’s ‘banned tree’ list that includes almost forty species including many native tree species like sycamore, hickory, persimmon, and sweet gum. Krippenstapel explained that placement of trees on the site was also very intentional. Flowering trees including magnolia, flowering dogwood and Eastern redbuds, were planted closer to the road. Less showy trees like oaks, beech, and water tupelo were planted closer to the creek. In addition to trees, there will be a large ‘pollinator garden’ close to the road. And while the trees will take a few years to get big enough to be impressive, the pollinator garden should be a noticeable aspect of the park right away. Krippenstapel was quick to point out that the creation of the park was a group effort. She especially noted the help of Kevin Rohling, University of Illinois Extension, with the writing of the grant for the park. And several people working for the City of Carbondale helped her through the process, up to and including digging the holes for the trees!
I asked Anne if there was a name for the park and she said it might be called the Keep Carbondale Beautiful Park. Personally, I love the idea! A Keep Carbondale Beautiful Park in the middle to town, along busy Route 13 will be a daily, calming reminder to slow down and admire the beauty of southern Illinois. And although the site will never become ‘wilderness’, the birds and butterflies using the site in the years to come won’t care. Neither will the groundhog we watched inspecting the new park during my visit!
Floodplain Park Tree Planting Day, NOVEMBER 13th!
You have, no doubt, driven by the flat, blank, urban decayed space that is 801and 827 E Main. This site is the location of the Econolodge that was perennially flooded and finally torn down. Keep Carbondale Beautiful intends to renew and beautify the blighted area with a tree planting project. Grant funded, through the Illinois Forestry Development Council, this urban reforestation project will restore this location with selected native, site appropriate trees, and pollinator plants and, eventually, an informational sign, elaborating on the local ecology of Southern Illinois. Volunteers are welcome to join Keep Carbondale Beautiful in tree planting on Saturday, November 13th, 9 a.m. until 2 pm. Tree plantings will be flagged for location in a staggered, grid-like, pattern for ease of mowing and to create a park like atmosphere. Shovels, gloves and all other supplies will be provided. Parking for volunteers is located at the Ashley Furniture warehouse, 715 E Main. The Keep Carbondale Beautiful, Inc., Board works hard to keep Southern Illinois strong. The beauty of our community by means of revitalization of property, new construction, plantings and beautification, upkeep and maintenance, or rehabilitation is our mission. If you would like to contact KCB about concerns or have environmental questions, please call the Keep Carbondale Beautiful office at 525-5525 or email keepcb1326@gmail.com.
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Do you love Halloween? Do you love Halloween as much as your neighbor at 804 W. Cherry st? Darren Ackerman, a previous Bright Spot award winner, rolled out seasonal decorations early this year, catching the eye of Keep Carbondale Beautiful nomination committee. Ghouls, ghosts’ scarecrows, witches and more! The striking teal green painted house has been adding to the lawn theatrics for the past 7 years. Much of it is homemade. Wine bottles are spray-painted black with melted candles dripped down the side for affect. Ghosts fabricated from mannequin heads covered with fabric. Tall faceless witches made from posts wrapped in bedsheets, tulle and lace are staged around a home created vapor cauldron. “Homemade stuff lasts longer than storebought decorations” Darren states. Adding new The first year, less than 10 trick or treaters visited. In 2019, over 80 showed up Halloween night. For safety, in 2020, gift bags of candy were left out on a table near the sidewalk, and will be again this year. When asked what kind of candy, “what I liked as a kid” Darren laughs,” Chewy things, Snickers, Butterfingers, Starbursts”
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Household Chemical Collection Event
Jackson County Health Department is hosting a free, IEPA sponsored household chemical collection
Where: At the Banterra Center (former SIU Arena), south parking lot on
When: Saturday, June 19.
This event helps safely dispose of old and unwanted household chemicals. Waste can be dropped off at the site on the date of the event between 8 a.m. – 3 p.m. This rain or shine event is open to ALL Illinois residents.
To participate in the event residents MUST:
· Register online at www.RecycleJacksonCounty.org or call 618-684-3143 ext. 128 to schedule an appointment drop-off time;
· Present valid state ID or recent utility bill to enter event.
Please contact Jackson County Health Department at 618-684-3143, ext. 128 for more information, or visit www.RecycleJacksonCounty.org.
Where: At the Banterra Center (former SIU Arena), south parking lot on
When: Saturday, June 19.
This event helps safely dispose of old and unwanted household chemicals. Waste can be dropped off at the site on the date of the event between 8 a.m. – 3 p.m. This rain or shine event is open to ALL Illinois residents.
To participate in the event residents MUST:
· Register online at www.RecycleJacksonCounty.org or call 618-684-3143 ext. 128 to schedule an appointment drop-off time;
· Present valid state ID or recent utility bill to enter event.
Please contact Jackson County Health Department at 618-684-3143, ext. 128 for more information, or visit www.RecycleJacksonCounty.org.
A few shots from our Invasive Species Neighborhood Walk
Invasive Species Neighborhood Walk
KCB is in partnership with FRST, Forest Restoration Strike Team, to combat invasive plant species in town.
We came up with a plan to put out a call to homeowners to send in some pics of the invasive plants taking over and we would select 5 homes (keep it relatively small/not overwhelm ourselves with work) and go out together and treat them.
May is invasive species awareness month, as declared by Pat Quinn.
The idea is to be both a beautification project as well as educational.
This was planned for May 2 (a Sunday) and a rain date for May 15th.
"Invasive Species Neighborhood Walk” is to provide the public with beautification, help out native plants regain their territory and education to interested people who wish to take stewardship of their yards!
Contact us with pictures at keepcb1326@gmail.com
We came up with a plan to put out a call to homeowners to send in some pics of the invasive plants taking over and we would select 5 homes (keep it relatively small/not overwhelm ourselves with work) and go out together and treat them.
May is invasive species awareness month, as declared by Pat Quinn.
The idea is to be both a beautification project as well as educational.
This was planned for May 2 (a Sunday) and a rain date for May 15th.
"Invasive Species Neighborhood Walk” is to provide the public with beautification, help out native plants regain their territory and education to interested people who wish to take stewardship of their yards!
Contact us with pictures at keepcb1326@gmail.com
We will also be participating in the "Give Before You Go" event with the SIU sustainability office.
May 6th, 7th, 8th, 10th (skipping the 9th) 8 a.m. helping to clean Lentz Hall, in tandem with Rotary/and a ministry group.
--- This is to help keep waste out of the landfills ---
If you want to participate or let folks know, please contact Karen S at karens@siu.edu
May 6th, 7th, 8th, 10th (skipping the 9th) 8 a.m. helping to clean Lentz Hall, in tandem with Rotary/and a ministry group.
--- This is to help keep waste out of the landfills ---
If you want to participate or let folks know, please contact Karen S at karens@siu.edu
We are still in the middle of the "30 Day Challenge"to pick up some litter every day for 30 days.
We've had some great volunteers!
Keep up the great work Carbondale!
We've had some great volunteers!
Keep up the great work Carbondale!
SIU SCUBA Team Helps to Keep Carbondale Beautiful
SIU's SCUBA Team organized their own clean-up the other day.
They were able to fill 5 bags while focusing mainly on the water ways.
Way To Go!!!
They were able to fill 5 bags while focusing mainly on the water ways.
Way To Go!!!
Successful Clean-Up Events
Sat March 13th
- SIU cleanup
- meet 9 am to noon at Levels parking lot,
- "KCB Litter Blast Morning" registration is on Saluki volunteer portal.
- Conjunction event with Green Earth, Pyles Fork Cleanup,
- 9 am to noon, meet at Attucks park.
- Event open to the public and SIU students with registration on Saluki Volunteer portal.
Check Out our most recent Bright Spot Award winners!
Grab N Go Litter Clean Up Kits
We have Litter Clean-Up Kits available! Read more about them below:
Instructions; Grab N Go Litter Pick up Kits are available at the screened in porch of Hickory Lodge, 1115 W. Sycamore.
Please do not enter the main building at this time.
Each Kit Contains: Bags/gloves/City Route highlighting high trash areas & parking, as well as the City number to collect orange bags (618.457.3275)
Kits are Labeled by size as Small, Medium or Large
KCB can also provide long handled litter grabbers, we ask volunteers to return them when done with litter clean ups.
Must be requested. Grabbers are labeled with our name and address.
*the hardcore litter-picker-upper may want their own grabber, they are generally available for sale at local hardware stores*
Suggested to follow highlighted route on map.
Always use caution in unknown areas.
Smaller single use shopping bags are included so volunteers can spread out and collect and return to orange bags to dump litter into.
A few extra pairs of gloves are added in case gloves rip while working.
When volunteers are finished please call, 618.457.3275, leave a voice mail where the location of orange bags are (and only within city limits)
Please email/call/text KCB as to where volunteers collected litter/how many bags/hours of volunteerism, we love to know where you went!
Also, tell us about any interesting finds (Money? Winning lottery ticket? Creepy dolls? See any unusual wildlife?)
Take pictures/selfies and post it to our Instagram/FB page, we can also add it to our website!
Large automotive parts/medical waste/appliances, DO NOT HANDLE!
Instead, report them to Keep Carbondale Beautiful or the city.
Instructions; Grab N Go Litter Pick up Kits are available at the screened in porch of Hickory Lodge, 1115 W. Sycamore.
Please do not enter the main building at this time.
Each Kit Contains: Bags/gloves/City Route highlighting high trash areas & parking, as well as the City number to collect orange bags (618.457.3275)
Kits are Labeled by size as Small, Medium or Large
- Small kits: 1-2 volunteers, 2 orange bags, smaller shopping bags, 3 pair gloves
- Medium kits: 3-5 volunteers, 4 orange bags, smaller shopping bags, 7 pair gloves
- Large kits: 6-10 volunteers, 6 orange bags, smaller shopping bags, 12 pair gloves
KCB can also provide long handled litter grabbers, we ask volunteers to return them when done with litter clean ups.
Must be requested. Grabbers are labeled with our name and address.
*the hardcore litter-picker-upper may want their own grabber, they are generally available for sale at local hardware stores*
Suggested to follow highlighted route on map.
Always use caution in unknown areas.
Smaller single use shopping bags are included so volunteers can spread out and collect and return to orange bags to dump litter into.
A few extra pairs of gloves are added in case gloves rip while working.
When volunteers are finished please call, 618.457.3275, leave a voice mail where the location of orange bags are (and only within city limits)
Please email/call/text KCB as to where volunteers collected litter/how many bags/hours of volunteerism, we love to know where you went!
Also, tell us about any interesting finds (Money? Winning lottery ticket? Creepy dolls? See any unusual wildlife?)
Take pictures/selfies and post it to our Instagram/FB page, we can also add it to our website!
Large automotive parts/medical waste/appliances, DO NOT HANDLE!
Instead, report them to Keep Carbondale Beautiful or the city.
Our MLK Jr. Day Clean-Up Event was a HUGE SUCCESS!!!
Thanks EVERYONE who came out and helped us clean up on this beautiful Martin Luther King Jr. day.
While this event was geared towards SIU students, ANYONE could AND DID come out and join the collection effort.
Just look at how much we gathered in just a single sunny morning, WOW!
You all went above and beyond to Keep Carbondale Beautiful.
While this event was geared towards SIU students, ANYONE could AND DID come out and join the collection effort.
Just look at how much we gathered in just a single sunny morning, WOW!
You all went above and beyond to Keep Carbondale Beautiful.
Official Release: On January 23rd, the Saturday following Martin Luther King Jr. Day, students and community members will carry out the annual litter clean-up day at Attucks Park, located 800 N. Wall St. This 15 year long tradition will convene at 9 a.m. and will operate until noon. Student Volunteers will fill out waivers issued by student coordinators that also serve as verification of work performed. Community members are encouraged to participate in this locally environmentally beneficial event. Orange litter bags, disposable gloves and litter grabbers will be available on site for the clean-up. Social distancing and mask wearing will be observed as recommended by CDC official guidelines.
New Year Trash Hike
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Help us ring in the New Year by picking up some litter and maybe spotting some local bird life.
WHAT: Keep Carbondale Beautiful is hosting a Trash Hike event along with local ornithologist Mike Baltz.
WHERE: We'll be meeting up at the Arnold's Market parking lot
WHEN: We plan to head out around 9am, and go until 12 or 12:30
The area to be beautified is along RT 51 between The Reserves apartments to the Dollar General.
The area has been recently mowed and Mike will be helping with not only litter spotting, but bird spotting as well!
KCB will provide gloves, vests, grabbers, and bags.
We hope to see you there!
WHAT: Keep Carbondale Beautiful is hosting a Trash Hike event along with local ornithologist Mike Baltz.
WHERE: We'll be meeting up at the Arnold's Market parking lot
WHEN: We plan to head out around 9am, and go until 12 or 12:30
The area to be beautified is along RT 51 between The Reserves apartments to the Dollar General.
The area has been recently mowed and Mike will be helping with not only litter spotting, but bird spotting as well!
KCB will provide gloves, vests, grabbers, and bags.
We hope to see you there!
Our Executive Director, Anne Krippenstapel, has been interviewed again.
This time by Mike Baltz for his regular Southern Illinoisan section, Real Green People.
Thanks Mike, for shining a spotlight on beautiful natural spaces in and around Carbondale
and the people that help to keep them that way!
Check it out at the link below!
https://thesouthern.com/news/local/environment/real-green-people-keep-carbondale-beautiful-director-anne-krippenstapel/article_8d6712fb-4386-5a39-b088-771171945889.html
America Recycles Day (Nov 15) has come and gone, but we still wanted to reiterate the issue of single use plastics.
Single Use Plastics are generally only used ONE TIME.
This is horrible for the environment these single use plastics will be filling up landfills and the bellies of wild animals for years.
Single Use Plastics are generally only used ONE TIME.
This is horrible for the environment these single use plastics will be filling up landfills and the bellies of wild animals for years.
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These are all examples of single use plastics.
We know that single use plastics are bad, but they're not going to go away anytime soon, so how can YOU help when it comes to single use plastics?
Any kids, or adults that want to learn and have a little fun, can click here to play an informative "Super Sorter" browser-based, recycling game!
Knowing more about how plastics affect our environments and communities is a big first step towards helping.
Let's all do our part to Keep Carbondale Beautiful.
- Always pack a reusable bag when shopping. (And yes—reusable totes are better for the environment than plastics, recent media claims aside.)
- Cook more often, to reduce your use of plastic-heavy takeout containers.
- Buy in bulk. Avoid individually packaged goods, like snack packs.
- Though buying online sometimes has a lower carbon footprint than shopping in a store (skip the express delivery option, if you can), online shipments are still chock-full of plastic. Your best bet to reduce your footprint and plastic waste? Walk, bike, or take public transit to buy in-person.
- Avoid plastic wrap altogether by storing leftovers in reusable containers. Try reusable and compostable beeswax wrap for an easy and decorative option.
- Buy a metal or bamboo reusable straw. Pack it alongside reusable cutlery (like wood, bamboo, or metal chopsticks) for sustainable eating on the go.
- Talk to the owners of the restaurants you frequent. Ask if they have nonplastic alternatives to plastic straws, stirrers, or bags.
- Speak out in support of local plastic bans, whether by calling your local government representative, submitting an op-ed to your city’s newspaper, or simply starting conversations with neighbors.
- Let companies that make your favorite products know that you care about the packaging. Tweet, call, or send letters to these companies to ask them to switch to more durable, recyclable, compostable, renewable, and/or recycled-content packaging with less fossil fuel–derived plastic.
Any kids, or adults that want to learn and have a little fun, can click here to play an informative "Super Sorter" browser-based, recycling game!
Knowing more about how plastics affect our environments and communities is a big first step towards helping.
Let's all do our part to Keep Carbondale Beautiful.
Recently, our Executive Director, Anne Krippenstapel,
was interviewed by Alee Quick of the Southern Illinoisan,
it appears in their free Life & Style magazine.
thesouthern.com/lifestyles/magazine/21-questions-getting-to-know-anne-krippenstapel-executive-director-of-keep-carbondale-beautiful/article_9d781f5b-35de-5a4b-9759-c66cf2b91ea7.html
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THANK YOU,
CARBONDALE!! for meeting Keep Carbondale Beautiful’s 30-Day Challenge. We heard from the following folks who reported on their group’s cleanup efforts. Liz, Brian, Sarah, Lee, Mike, Rockette, Trina, Dorcy, Clare, Bobbie, Carrie, Mark, Jerry, Darren, Greg, Richard, Fran, Dan, Beth, Jessica : |
 Every little bit helps.
The KCB Challenge
Keep Carbondale Beautiful thanks all those in the Carbondale community who participated in their 30-Day Challenge. Nearly 50 people reported that they had been out and picking up litter, and most said that they are doing it on a regular basis. Estimates are that hundreds of hours were put in. “But more importantly,” according to Executive Director Anne Krippenstapel, “the community came together. I am heartened by the stewardship of our citizens.” Some people were out every day, especially if walking a dog. Sunny warm days saw more participation, as recorded on Keep Carbondale Beautiful’s Facebook page. Sponsors of the30-Day Challenge cleanup include Burris Disposal, CIMCO Recycling, and Southern Recycling. KCB also gets critical funding from the City of Carbondale. All participants are eligible to receive a T-shirt or a tote-bag. Contact Anne Krippenstapel for more information: 618-525-3075 or keepcb1326@gmail.com. |
Get Involved
If you've ever asked yourself: Where do I recycle in or around Carbondale? How can I clean up my local neighborhood? What can I do to be more environmentally friendly? On this website, you will find information on our programs, ways you can help the local environment, useful links, and much more.
There are a number of ways you can help keep Carbondale beautiful:
Look for upcoming volunteer opportunities on the Calendar of Events
Learn more about student internship opportunities
Become a member
Serve on the board of directors
Check out our Help Wanted list for ideas
No time? Financial support is also involvement! Contribute here
Announcements
We expect by September we'll be able to make the trip to Forrest Keeling Nursery. Please check out the Tree Sale page and think about planting trees in the fall.
Carbondale uses See Click Fix so that citizens can report a concern, or see what issues have been reported and what's being done. You can also download the SeeClickFix app to your phone. Please help raise awareness about this wonderful addition to a responsive and transparent city hall.
Partnerships
We take our mission seriously, but interpret it broadly to include other aspects of community greening and – as Keep America Beautiful puts it – building vibrant communities. So we partner with other groups, such as
- Built Environment Action Team to promote walkable and bikeable streets
- City of Carbondale to educate the public on recycling
- Illinois Native Plant Society, and U of I Extension to create guidelines for property owners wanting to create native habitat
- Illinois Master Naturalists to develop Champion Tree Contest
- Jackson County Healthy Communities Coalition in their grant
- Girl Scouts and Cub Scouts on environmental programming
- The Science Center to plan special exhibits
- ... and more to come, with your support.