Dear Shoals business and community members:
For many years in the past, schools, grassroots citizens groups, municipal departments and individuals in the Shoals have coordinated events in commemoration of Earth Day. Since it’s beginning in 1970, Earth Day has served to foster environmental awareness around the world and is hailed nationally as a profitable tourism tool. A visit to Earth Day web sites will confirm the involvement of communities who pool their resources to make these events a success.
In 2008 the Shoals area will officially join forces with other towns and cities in observation of Earth Day with activities filling the entire month of April. A committee has been formed to oversee Earth Month in the Shoals and the Shoals Earth Day Fest. This committee consists of local tourism bureaus, city officials, educators, the Children's Museum, Chamber of Commerce representatives / Keep the Shoals Beautiful, civic groups, local business, non-profits and individuals. We are proud of our new logo above designed by UNA art major, Anna Richey. This community-wide collaboration can only promote our area in a positive manner.
The activities offered throughout the month of April across the Shoals area are designed to appeal not just to outdoor enthusiasts but to all age groups, families and individuals. Following a dedication ceremony on the railroad bridge, the first ever Shoals Earth Day Fest will be held on April 19 in Wilson Park, Florence, from 12 until 5 pm and will feature artists, music, children’s art and science contests and activity tent, exhibits from businesses that promote environmental responsibility, TVA environmental education booths, renewable energy and recycling displays, educational speakers, etc.
The entire month will be filled with nature walks highlighting our local wildflowers, birds, and hiking trails. Other events include songwriters in the round with a dinner featuring organic wine and gourmet vegetarian cuisine, tours of a solar home and the new North Alabama Bio-diesel plant, a visit to the Entrepreneurial Center and Jack- 0 - Lantern Farms promoting local products, children's story times, native plant sale, trail rides, free movie showings and other events at UNA just to name a few. A rigorous anti-litter campaign will be launched by local governments in conjunction with all events.
We sincerely hope that you, your business or your organization will be a part of this festive and important effort. If you wish to be on the committee’s email list please forward your email address to drlowery07@comcast.net or nancymusesea@aol.com.
Displays for the Shoals Earth Day Fest are encouraged that deal with eco-friendly themes / environmental friendly products or environmental education. Financial contributions to help with expenses will be greatly appreciated. Sponsors will be recognized at all Earth Day events. Names of sponsors giving $100.00 or more received by February 15 will be printed on the Earth Month tee shirts. If you wish to display and / or contribute please fill out and return the form below. Details concerning the use of monies will gladly be provided upon request.
We look forward to hearing from you and welcome any ideas or suggestions for Earth Month in the Shoals / Shoals Earth Day Fest. While celebrating the natural beauty of the Shoals, together we are making an investment in our area and our children’s future.
Sincerely,
Nancy Muse Karen Lowery
Members, Shoals Earth Month Committee