KEEPING WHISKEY CREEK BEAUTIFUL, ONE PIECE OF TRASH AT A TIME
Every morning along Whiskey Creek Drive, before most of us have had our first sip of coffee, you will see Joe and Sue Swalcy walking with purpose, trash picker in hand, bags at their side, and smiles that say “We love where we live.”
The Swalcys first came to Whiskey Creek in 2010 as snowbirds from western New York. Like many who fall in love with Southwest Florida, it did not take long before they decided to make it their full-time home. About five years ago, after noticing a neighbor quietly picking up litter during morning walks, they decided to join in.
“Someone was already doing it, and we thought, why not help?” they shared. “So we bought a trash picker and started walking.” What began as a simple gesture of appreciation for their neighborhood soon became a daily habit. Rain or shine, they stroll the familiar streets, collecting what others leave behind.
Though they have not found anything too shocking (this morning’s most unusual discovery was a lone tube of toothpaste) what they do find are countless opportunities to make Whiskey Creek a little cleaner and a little kinder. Many neighbors honk, wave, or stop to say thank you as they pass, grateful for the couple’s quiet consistency.
Their efforts did not go unnoticed. Neighbor Janice Smeigh, who nominated them, shared, “Their quiet selflessness in keeping our community clean is truly commendable. Every day, they can be seen voluntarily picking up litter. Not for recognition or praise, but simply out of care for where we live.” Janice went on to say that Joe and Sue “embody the heart of Whiskey Creek,” leading not through words but through action. “They remind us that being part of a community means participating, not just posting online,” she said. “Let’s all strive to follow their lead and be part of the solution.”
From keeping the streets free of litter to helping local wildlife thrive in a cleaner environment, the Swalcys’ daily act of service reflects the best of what it means to be a Whiskey Creek neighbor, humble, caring, and community-minded.
Thank you, Joe and Sue, for making every morning a little brighter and every street a little cleaner. Your example inspires us all.
KNOW SOMEONE WHO DESERVES THE SPOTLIGHT?
Whether it’s neighbors like Joe and Sue who quietly make a difference or a yard that stops you in your tracks with its beauty, we want to celebrate it!
If you know someone who goes above and beyond whether through service, kindness, or curb appeal, let’s give them the recognition they deserve.
Send your nominations to: [email protected]
Let’s keep honoring the people (and places) that make Whiskey Creek a cleaner, kinder, and more beautiful community to call home.
