Annual Earth Day event set for April 29

Published 6:45 am Sunday, April 16, 2017

After eight years of educating the community about conservation and the environment, Keep Athens-Limestone Beautiful’s annual Earth Day and Outdoor Expo continues to grow and thrive.

The group will present its ninth annual celebration on April 29 at Friendship Church off Lucas Ferry Road in Athens. The event runs from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. and will be held rain or shine.

When asked why the event remains popular, KALB Executive Coordinator Lynne Hart said it’s because admission is free and events are affordable.

“It doesn’t cost families a fortune because we didn’t want anyone to be left out,” she said.

She also credited the party-like atmosphere, despite the goal of the event being strictly educational. Hart believes the educational focus is also paying dividends.

“I talked to 700 fifth-graders and sixth-graders in March and several of them had been to the event. When I asked, they said they would recommend that others come,” Hart said. “They remember what they learn because they don’t realize they’re learning. … Teaching has always been the main goal from the very beginning.”

Hart said even booth exhibitors who may not have anything to do with the environment are asked to bring something “environmental” to display at their booths.

Featured attractions

This year’s festivities will again begin with a guided walking tour of Marbut Bend Walking Trail. It will be led by Damien Simbeck of Tennessee Valley Authority’s Natural Resource Management.

Those who participate are asked to bring binoculars, wear comfortable walking shoes and have insect repellant. The trail, located off Alabama 99, is handicapped accessible.

This year also marks KALB’s 40th anniversary, so Hart said there would be a surprise birthday party for Sparky, KALB’s mascot at 1 p.m. Cookie cake will also be served to anyone at the party.

Chattanooga-based Wings to Soar will present a raptor show that will include birds of prey flying free through the church gymnasium. Dunkin’ Donuts will be giving away coffee and doughnut holes and hot dogs will also be free.

Hart said there would be more than 40 local and regional exhibitors on hand. There will also be plenty of crafts and activities for children.

Volunteers needed

Hart said volunteers are still needed for the event, particularly those willing to help children with crafts. Those interested in volunteering or attending can find more information on Keep Athens-Limestone Beautiful’s Facebook page or by visiting KALBcares.com.