Volunteers and suggestions are being sought as the Polly Ann Trail and Downtown Development Authority organize Oxford’s first-ever Earth Day celebration scheduled for Saturday, April 25.
Those interested in helping plan and/or work this new event are invited to attend a special organizational meeting at 6 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 12 in the DDA office.
‘Any way they can help out would be appreciated,? said Trail Manager Troy Farwell. ‘It’s hard to say no to somebody that wants to put their effort into something.?
The purpose of this new event is twofold. Part of it is designed to serve as a fund-raiser for the trail with participants paying $20 each to enter a 5-kilometer run, go on a 22-kilometer bike ride from Oxford to Leonard and back, or for the really hearty, do both in one day for one fee.
Farwell’s hoping at least 200 people will participate, which could generate $4,000 for the Polly Ann. ‘It’s expensive to maintain 14 miles of trail,? he said.
Those wishing to participate in the run and bike ride will be able to register early by visiting www.pollyanntrailway.org beginning this Saturday.
On Friday, Farwell said the trail is launching its new, more visually-appealing and user-friendly website to replace the old one, which he described as ‘outdated and ugly.?
Raising ‘awareness? about the environment and the benefits of shopping locally is the event’s other mission.
To that end, downtown’s northeast quadrant will play host to a variety of Oxford businesses promoting ‘green? merchandise such as organic fertilizer, eco-friendly cleaning products, organic foods, clothing made of natural fibers, products created from recycled materials, etc.
Because the DDA spent $2,000 to sponsor this event, there’s no charge for businesses in the district to participate. Farwell said he’s negotiating to extend that offer to all Oxford businesses.
‘As long as they meet the criteria, it’s a free booth,? Farwell said. ‘Here’s a free opportunity to get your name out there.?
Businesses located outside the DDA district are invited to set up booths, but will be charged a $50 fee.
In an effort to make Oxford businesses more environmentally conscious, merchants will be invited to participate in a contest judging how ‘green? they are.
Businesses that sell eco-friendly products, use energy-efficient light bulbs, promote recycling, practice water conservation, etc. will compete for the first annual ‘Green Business of the Year? award. Judging will be done by representatives from the Upland Hills Ecological Awareness Center.
To keep children entertained, there will be a kids area consisting of a rock-climbing wall, pony rides and inflatables.
Those interested in helping out with the Oxford Earth Day celebration are encouraged to contact Farwell at (248) 730-0817 or via e-mail omwellness1@yahoo.com.