Entries are due Oct. 29 for the annual Upcycled Art Contest, held by Polk County Recycling & Beautification (PCRB), one of two major events aimed at promoting creativity, environmental responsibility and recycling within the community.
The Upcycled Art Contest offers citizens a chance to showcase their creativity by transforming waste materials into unique pieces of art. This event highlights the importance of reusing and recycling, while offering a fun way to engage with the community.
Entries for the contest are due at the Polk County Recycling Center by October 29. Artists of all ages are encouraged to participate, and winners will receive cash prizes in addition to having their art displayed through the month of November.
Last year’s event drew over 30 entries and attracted more than 100 attendees, all excited to see how everyday discarded items could be turned into beautiful and thought-provoking pieces of art.
To learn more about the contest, including entry forms and official rules, visit PCRBTexas.org/contest.
In addition to the Upcycled Art Contest, PCRB will hold its first ever Electronics Recycling Event on Nov. 15. Residents are invited to bring their unwanted electronic devices – anything with a cord, charger or battery compartment – to the recycling center between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m.
“This is an excellent opportunity to safely dispose of e-waste, including old phones, computers, and other electronics. While most items can be dropped off free of charge, please note that there will be a small fee for recycling TVs, monitors, and printers,” PCRB President Kari Miller said.
To register for the event or to learn more about which items will be accepted, visit PCRBTexas.org/electronics. Individuals may also register by calling or texting 936-337-3315 with a preferred time slot: 9-10 a.m.; 10-11 a.m.; 11 a.m. to noon; noon to 1 p.m.; 1-2 p.m.; 2-3 p.m.; or 3-4 p.m.
“Looking ahead to our future plans, these events are just part of PCRB’s broader efforts to engage the community and promote sustainable practices. For more information on these events and PCRB’s ongoing work, visit PCRBTexas.org.
Miller recently presented the PCRB’s annual report to the Polk County Commissioners Court highlighting its initiatives and its accomplishments.
“Thanks to strong community support and careful management, PCRB is in a good financial position, with enough funds to continue operations for at least the next two years. PCRB is also exploring new ways to collaborate with Polk County on future waste collection initiatives and educational programs, such as planning a ‘Bottle Challenge’ designed to engage youth in recycling efforts,” Miller said.
