In addition to making new friends and acquaintances at any of our outdoor programs or professional development workshops, one of our favorite get-togethers is big events like the Earthfest celebration held at Overpeck County Park hosted by a partnership between Hackensack Riverkeeper and Bergen County Parks. Not to be daunted by the threat of rain, attendees and vendors alike came out to enjoy a beautiful Sunday of warm weather, smiles, and green experiences ranging from the SOAR booth to our friend Joe (@NJBatman) to Mom's Organic Market, and more! We were overjoyed to be back outdoors at this wonderful event.
As always, Marmalade (aka "Mimi"), our rescued box turtle, made a splash by entertaining visitors and helping educate them about the amazing biodiversity in New Jersey. As one of our animal ambassadors, Mimi also serves to spread the important message of responsible exotic pet care and the illegal pet trade. From the other side of the world (over 8,000 miles away), our Madagascar Hissing Roaches delighted visitors (and elicited joyful terror in others) while educating all about the important role of detritivores in an ecosystem's food web.
Games, activities, and prizes kept us busy all day at our booth. We had some seriously talend and creative young 'uns! And knowledgeable? Wow!! It's always wonderful to see children being curious and feeling free enough to ask the best questions.
We were lucky enough to break away from our booth to visit other exhibitors. The cast of green vendors was varied and reflected many perspectives for being green, environmental stewardship, and wildlife conservation. From the Hacksensack River Keeper to the Japanese art of fish printing , we enjoyed conversations about bear safety when out hiking, jewelry made from recycled soda cans, solar power for the home, and sustainable fishing. Everyone delivered passionate messages about their respective organization's cause; this enthusiasm was shared by each booth visitor.
Children, parents, and young adults took every opportunity to learn from each exhibit/vendor. Conversation flowed and smiles were abundant. And, of course, there was the joy of seeing an actual dinosaur!
We look forward to more meet-and-greets and outdoor couny and club events. Be sure to join us!!! We'll see you at Butterfly Day at Dekorte!!
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