Tuesday, May 10, 2011

Earth Day


April 22nd was the 41st anniversary of Earth Day. Woohooo! This year St. Louis celebrated by holding their 22nd Festival on Sunday, April 17th (held early this year due to Easter conflict). My family gathered in Forest Park on the Muny Grounds to rejoice over another "green" milestone with an estimated 30,000 supporters at the premier event in the Midwest. There was plenty to see and learn with live music, cultural performances, local food, and 300 vendors exhibiting their earth-friendly wares. The statistics collected after the Festival show that St. Louis now ranks as the third largest Earth Day celebration in the nation (following Dallas and New York City). How proud are we?

In the wake of the environmental disasters (Gulf spill, devastation in Japan, tornadoes, wildfires, etc.) education in environmental stewardship and sustainable practices has become paramount. Now it's time to start planning your random acts of green for the spring and summer. Peak your outdoor efforts while the weather cooperates and then perhaps fix your attention on activism. Take to heart the slogans "Earth Day Every Day" and "Be the Change." Make a personal plan, make green moves, and make it happen!

Same place next year on April 22nd. Mark it on your calendar. Come out and join in solidarity with like-minded individuals. See you there!