PRINCE WILLIAM COUNTY — June 17 is National Garbage Man Day, and communities across the nation are encouraged take a moment and show appreciation to their trash collectors.
Trash collectors and the men and women in the solid waste management industry are honored annually on June 17 for “Keeping You and the Environment Safe!”
At a recent board meeting, the Prince William Board of County Supervisors proclaimed Monday, June 17 as National Garbage Man Day in Prince William County. The Prince William County Solid Waste Division will recognize National Garbage Man Day on June 17.
Trash haulers that come to the Prince William County Landfill will receive expressions of thanks from staff, a special treat, and safety tips.
June is National Safety month and according to Bureau of Labor Statistic refuse and recycling collection workers rank 5 out of 10 on the list of fatal job injuries. Emphasis is being placed on a special safety campaign, “Five to Stay Alive” by SWANA, which is an appropriate focus year-round for these workers.
In addition to collecting trash and moving it from one place to another, the employees of the solid waste industry are also pioneers in advancing technologies such as recycling, renewable and sustainable energy, and reduction of our dependence on fossil fuels. Match that with the clear impact on city cleanliness and hygiene, and it seems the modern-day garbage man should be receiving a little more than our garbage every week.
During the week of June 17, there are many ways that residents and businesses can also show support and appreciation for the people doing these dangerous, yet important jobs:
- Slow down and pay extra attention when approaching or passing a collection vehicle
- Share a wrapped sweet treat or healthy snack
- Offer a cold bottle of water
- Give him or her a tip with a personal “thank you” or leave a “thank you” note
- Meet your collector at the curb and help them lift your load to show your awareness of their efforts
- Follow the provided guidelines for size and weight limitations and types of materials discarded in the regular trash
- Properly dispose of hazardous materials, do not put them in the trash
- Use more caution when putting harmful items in the trash such as glass or hot ashes
- Consider ways you can reduce, reuse, and recycle the things at home, school, and work
- Give the landfill attendants a “high five”
To learn more about National Garbage Man Day and how you can show your support go online. You can also send your celebration ideas and photos via email.
Recent Stories
OCCOQUAN, Va. – Plans to extend the popular Occoquan Riverwalk have hit a major roadblock after Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin vetoed $1.2 million in state funding that town leaders had counted on to move the project forward.
FREDERICKSBURG, Va. – If you’re traveling through the Fredericksburg region this week, expect to see crews working along Interstate 95 and several major routes in surrounding counties.
DUMFRIES, Va. – A two-year-old girl was found dead at the Red Roof Inn in Dumfries earlier this month, prompting a homicide investigation that led to the arrest of both of her parents on multiple felony charges, including murder and child neglect.
In loving memory of Benjamin Franklin Pruitt Jr., who passed away in 2025 at the age of 76.
Empower Your Future: Leadership, Mentorship, Education, and Networking — Calling middle and high school students for FREE Educational Summer Programming!
LLT STEMpower Camp at Marymount University
Middle School Students | Two Sessions:
July 7–11, 2025
Inspired by local physicians who were among the nation’s first to adopt the concierge medicine model, Northern Virginia is now a hub for its surging popularity. These leading physicians are redefining the patient experience with same-day appointments, direct availability, unhurried visits, and deeply personalized care:
After almost 40 years in practice, Manassas-based Internist John Cary, MD’s change to concierge medicine enabled focused attention for each individual, and the launch of his innovative diet program for those with type 2 diabetes. “The goal is to promote enough weight loss to reach an acceptable A1C of 6% with no medication,” he explains. “Achieving that can take several months of very close follow up. As I tell my patients, we are in this together.”
Jay Tyroler, MD considers his patients quite literally as family. “I believe there’s nothing more honorable than helping patients when they’re sick, or scared, or feeling vulnerable, and I care for them exactly as I would my loved ones.” Whether for a specialist referral, urgent health issue or ongoing follow up, “My patients know I’m always just a phone call away.”
Your Weight Matters National Convention
Hosted by the Obesity Action Coalition (OAC) since 2012, this highly-anticipated gathering is the nation’s leading gathering focused on empowering individuals with science-based education, support and practical tools for managing weight and improving health.
This unique Convention truly has something
Van Metre 5K Run
Participate in the 33rd Annual Van Metre 5K Run—a race that goes further than 3.1 miles, where every stride you take supports Children’s National Hospital. The Van Metre 5K Run donates 100% of proceeds to Children’s National Hospital and has
