Sunday April 26 marks the ninth annual Earth Day Celebration at Dale Meadows Park from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
This past week, I took a leisurely walk around the 1.2-kilometre jogging track that encircles the park. I passed by school children practicing their marathon running skills, a mother pushing her baby in a stroller, brothers enjoying a bike ride with their parents, and some youngsters playing in the playground.
Just as I’ve watched my own three boys grow over these years, I was feeling quite nostalgic seeing the Earth Day shrubs and plants along the pathway grow, knowing that my family planted some of them in previous years.
There is a sense of belonging and ownership in your community when you’ve helped to make it better, even in a small way.
Since my family moved here in late 2009, we have been to almost every Earth Day.
I remember my husband working to move some mulch with my two older sons while youngest son, only four months old at the time, was strapped on his chest in a baby carrier enjoying the sights.
It is a great lesson to teach your children to take pride in your community, enjoy getting your hands a little dirty, getting down on your knees to dig some holes and plant some trees to beautify the land we live, work and play in.
I take pride in the areas we weeded and removed invasive plants.
I remember my sons so happy with their Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtle faces painted from the volunteers that day. I remember the huge ball that they kicked around (or tried to) on the event day.
Earth Day is a perfect opportunity to meet up with friends, meet local firefighters, community organizers and volunteers.
This year’s Earth Week starts April 20 and concludes with the Earth Day Celebration on Sunday, April 26 at Dale Meadows Sports Park from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
With Earth Day Celebration beginning at 10 a.m, you will have time to enjoy the education booths and interactive stations.
There are fun activities for the kids. Just look for the maroon Summerland Credit Union Tent at the far west soccer field. This is where most of the planting action will occur.
You don’t need to have any experience in gardening to participate. You will be shown what to do and there are many tasks you can help with.
The pizza party and draw prize giveaway at the conclusion of the event is always a highlight as well. Mark April 26 on your calendar and share in our community beautification. Be a part of our growing community.
Joanne Malar is the program coordinator for Summerland Recreation, three-time Olympic swimmer, 2012 Olympic Commentator, kinesiologist and holistic nutritionist.