# Westgate's Trash Fairy

> Dennis Betzel, a 62-year-old Westgate resident, picks up trash daily to keep his neighborhood clean.
- Title: Westgate's Trash Fairy · The Banner | Shortify
- Summary: Dennis Betzel, a 62-year-old Westgate resident, picks up trash daily to keep his neighborhood clean.
- Keywords: westgate, dennis betzel, trash cleanup, baltimore, community cleanups, litter grabber, The Banner
- Source: The Banner — https://thebanner.com/community/local-news/westgate-good-citizen-trash-cleanup-HLEZFX7OYFEXZEB3L7XEAJG2HI
- Author: Jasmine Vaughn-Hall
- Published: 2026-11-07T10:30:00+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: westgate, dennis betzel, trash cleanup, baltimore, community cleanups, litter grabber, news, local
## Dennis Betzel's Trash Mission
Dennis Betzel, a 62-year-old Westgate resident, picks up trash daily to keep his neighborhood clean.
## Westgate Trash Problem
Westgate faces chronic trash issues with over 13,000 illegal dumping incidents reported annually to Baltimore's 311 unit.
## Betzel's Cleanup Routine
Betzel uses a cap, litter grabber, and empty bucket to collect trash like crumpled Cheetos bags and Little Trees air fresheners.
## Community Response
Neighbors share photos of kids picking up trash after Betzel started posting on Facebook to engage the community.
## Betzel's History
Betzel has lived in Westgate for over 25 years since moving from Glen Burnie in 2001.
## Trash Fairy Origin
Betzel became known as the 'Baltimore trash fairy' after neighbors called him that after he complained about trash reappearing quickly.
## Community Impact
Westgate looks cleaner now as Betzel's efforts reduce trash in his bucket from filling a pickup bed to smaller amounts.
## Key takeaway

Dennis Betzel, a 62-year-old Westgate resident, picks up trash daily to keep his neighborhood clean.