Several upcoming events remind us of the importance of responsible citizenship in our communities and in the world. As I write this column while on a literary tour north of London, I am acutely aware of the duty we all have to conduct ourselves with decorum and with respect for others and their unique cultures. Our mountain community reminds us of the role we each play in this world—to be good stewards of our environment, to advocate for human rights, and to gather with our neighbors to address issues impacting our own community.
Evergreen Rotary Recycle Day, September 19
The Evergreen Rotary Club is hosting its 17th annual Recycle Day (in honor of Mereth Meade) on Saturday, September 19 from 9-noon at Evergreen Country Day School, 1036 El Rancho Road. This annual event gives residents the opportunity to dispose of unwanted household items in an environmentally responsible fashion. Paper shredding services are offered from 9-11 am.
There is no charge to recycle paint products, automotive batteries or motor oil. For other items, Jefferson County Residents pay $30 up to 75 pounds with a $2.03 per pound charge over that weight. Non-residents pay $127.60 up to 75 pounds with a $2.28 per pound charge if exceeding that volume. Accepted items include appliances, electronics, plastic film (including plastic grocery bags), bicycles, and mattresses. For a complete list of acceptable household items, go to evergreenrotary.org. Paper shredding is offered for $5 per container.
Joy of Freedom Festival Comes to Buchanan Field September 26
Joy International, the locally formed nonprofit with a mission to heal and empower child survivors of trafficking, is hosting a celebration of freedom, community and impact on Saturday, September 26 from 11 am – 2 pm at Buchanan Field.
The day includes cultural music and dance performances, an immersive experience of the cultures and daily lives of people living in Nepal, Uganda, and Belize; food tastings inspired by the countries served by Joy International; kids activities; a silent auction to support the global work of Joy International, and opportunities to learn, connect and raise awareness about trafficking prevention and restoration.
The music lineup for the day features The Wrecklunds from 11-11:45 am, the Joyful Soles Dance Team at noon, a Nepali Arts Immersion Performance at 12:15 pm, the Kanona Ugandan Troupe at 1 pm, and a Freedom Finale and Giving Moment at 1:45 pm.
For festival details, and to learn more about the mission of Joy International, go to joy.org.
Free Class Offered Oct. 1 at Evergreen Conservatory of Music
The Evergreen Conservatory of Music is offering one free Kindermusick class on October 1 at 3:15 pm for children ages 3-5 in its studio located at 2902 Evergreen Parkway. This is an opportunity for youngsters to try various instruments, sing, and move to music to explore whether the Kindermusik program is a good fit. To register, and for more information, visit
evergreenconservatory.com. Continuing classes will be offered on a tuition basis.
Evergreen Town Hall on Community Safety Set for Oct. 1
The next in the series of Evergreen Town Hall meetings will focus on Community Safety on October 1 from 6-7:30 pm at the Evergreen High School Auditorium. “Meet and greet” takes place at 5:30 pm with an introduction and panel discussion to follow, informed by questions from the audience. Featured topics will include wildlife, local schools, fire and emergency medical services, and the Jefferson County patrol.
The town halls were begun as a project of the Leadership Evergreen Class of 2024 with the goal of creating accessible and inclusive gatherings where citizens could gain accurate information about issues affecting the community. For updates on the Oct. 1 program, visit the Evergreen Town Hall Facebook page.
