Veteran’s Park

Children eating their hot dog lunch were anxious to admit having a fun day. When asked about the best part of the day, one young boy yelled out, “Right now it’s the free hot dogs!”

The Hawthorne area was celebrating Earth Day in a big way as the weather cooperated with a light breeze and sunshine. Vendors filled the variety of booths located at Veteran’s Park, some selling specific wares while others presented plant exchanges and chances for kids to plant their own seeds in a cup.

Activities took on a community spirit, starting with a 5K Fun Run which provided a healthy time of running and walking, with a T-shirt of participation highlighting their involvement.

The festivities rolled into the park atmosphere with music playing, a popular bounce house and a free hot dog lunch. Residents with homemade canned goods or homegrown plants were displaying their items, as were those that had actual gardening items for sale. The message was clearly met with the University of Nevada Cooperative Extension’s banner promoting “veggies for kids” and a reminder of the food groups as characters.

Schyler Hagen, a spokesperson from the Cooperative Extension who organized the day’s event stated a special thanks to SOC, Financial Horizons Credit Union, NV Energy, Safeway and DJ Tyler Viani for their sponsorship. There were also appreciated donations given on behalf of the day. Hagen was pleased with the turn out and participation, stating, “Without our community involved there can’t be events like these. It is such a wonderful turnout and it’s great to see all ages outside enjoying Earth Day together.”