By Stacey Tinsley | Bossier Press-Tribune
BOSSIER CITY, La. — On Saturday, March 22, hundreds of residents, businesses and community leaders joined forces for Operation Clean Sweep, a large-scale effort to beautify Bossier Parish. This year, the annual event took place one week ahead of the highly anticipated Defenders of Liberty Air Show. Organized by the Bossier Parish Police Jury, Keep Bossier Beautiful and the Bossier Sheriff’s Office, the event highlighted the community’s dedication to maintaining a clean and welcoming environment.
With the air show expected to attract more than 200,000 visitors, local officials stressed the importance of showcasing Bossier Parish at its best. Sheriff Julian Whittington urged businesses and residents to take pride in their surroundings, emphasizing that a cleaner community benefits everyone.
The cleanup began at 8 a.m. last Saturday, with volunteers tackling litter removal, debris collection and public space enhancements across the parish. The Bossier Parish Police Jury provided a truck equipped with grappling arms to assist in disposing of large discarded items, including old furniture and appliances. Bossier City Mayor Tommy Chandler praised the initiative, calling it an opportunity to set a positive example and highlight the best of Bossier Parish.
Lynn Bryan, executive director of Keep Bossier Beautiful, celebrated the event’s success, noting that nearly 600 volunteers participated.
“Operation Clean Sweep is a premier parishwide effort, and we are incredibly proud to have the support of our community members. The weather was great, and so were the results,” Bryan said.
Following the cleanup, volunteers gathered for a well-deserved celebration featuring boiled crawfish from Shane’s Seafood, as well as hamburgers and hot dogs. Participants also received swag bags provided by Keep Bossier Beautiful.
The event’s success was made possible by the support of numerous sponsors, including Expand Energy, Republic Services, the lieutenant governor’s office, Louisiana Seafood, Shane’s Seafood & BBQ, Lamar Advertising, Ben E. Keith, Coca-Cola, Cypress Solar and Roofing, and many generous donors.
Operation Clean Sweep remains a testament to Bossier Parish’s commitment to unity, civic pride and environmental stewardship, ensuring the community continues to shine for both residents and visitors alike.