Mayor Robert Donchez officially kicked-off the Community Ambassadors Program Oct. 8 in the Southside business district. Eight Ambassadors, working two daily shifts from Monday through Saturday and a single Sunday shift, will pick up litter, empty litter receptacles, remove graffiti, perform tree and flower maintenance, remove weeds, provide pedestrian security, and offer hospitality and parking assistance. They underwent a several day training period prior to start up, and two Ambassadors are also certified in CPR and AED use.

Ambassadors will operate in either a clean team or safety team format using bicycles or walking predetermined routes. Initially they will perform a block-by-block blitz. The targeted area primarily encompasses the Third and Fourth Street Corridors between Taylor Street and Brodhead Avenue.

The program is being administered by Block by Block, a Louisville, Ken., based firm currently overseeing similar programs in over 70 cities across the United States.

Lehigh University, BEDCO, the Bethlehem Redevelopment Authority, the Stonehouse Group and the Bethlehem Parking Authority are providing funding and in-kind support for the program. Lehigh University's $200,000 annual commitment for three years comprises the single largest contribution.

Businesses and individuals are encouraged to become involved and may do so by going to the project website at www.southsidebethlehem.org .