Photo: Brian Larson

Group celebrates Earth Day, gray skies

Release Date:  Monday, May 11, 2009

Details:

On a rainy Sunday afternoon, dedicated Sierra Club volunteers and guests alike huddled under a picnic pavilion at Pleasant Ridge Park in Fairview Heights to celebrate Earth Day.

The first Kaskaskia Group Earth Day celebration took place April 19 under gray skies, but the smiles were bright while people enjoyed the planned activities.

“The best part of the day was watching the children enjoy planting seeds and using their imaginations as they reused old items to make paper bag vests,” said Amy Funk, chair of the group’s executive committee. “Their enthusiasm and creativity along with their ability to embrace the weather as fun, made it all worthwhile.”

Amy Funk discusses Earth Day with a member.

Funk coordinated the event with Bonnie Warner, the group’s secretary and treasurer, and they both thought it was successful despite the rain. Funk said, “In the sense that those that attended had fun, it was a great success. Overall, we managed to take a dreary day and create a fun and inviting environment for people.”

Volunteer Valerie Branham shows a couple young environmentalists how to plant.

Warner said, “It was nice to gather with others to celebrate our great Earth. It’s a great way to educate the community about what can and should be done for the health of our planet.” The Earth’s environment needs to be protected for future generations to enjoy and explore.

Bonnie Warner works on making paper bag vests with two other Earth lovers.

While children enjoyed working with crafts and games lead by volunteers, adults were occupied with educational displays and the recycling of gently used books and CDs. Warner said, “It was great to see volunteers come together to help with this event. Special thanks to O'Fallon 15 Cine for bringing a large group to help set up.”

A young, white tiger works on his vest.

Plans are already underway for next year’s Earth Day celebration with hopes of making it better. According to Funk, the group plans on having a scheduled rain date and will look for even more community support.