Tehachapi News

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Last week’s Earth Day Celebration was met by an overflow crowd that literally visited both sides of the street (Tehachapi Boulevard to be specific), including the Growers Expo and recycling center at Mama HillyBeans Coffee and Community, and the “Wind Camp” at The Apple Shed.

The Growers Expo featured a variety of exhibitors including expert growers from Souza Family Vineyards, Triassic Legacy Vineyard, Tehachapi News Columnist Edna McCallion’s All About Herbs, Tangleweed Farm, master gardeners from Old Towne Nursery and Mountain Garden Nursery.

An abundant offering of seeds of information were planted about what crops grow best in Tehachapi’s unique climate, natural pest controls, produce preservation, and how anyone can participate in Tehachapi’s Farmers’ Market.

Additional exhibitors included Field of Dreams Alpacas, an Alpaca wool spinning demonstration, heirloom chickens laying eggs, Albertsons’ new organic food line, Tehachapi Valley Parks and Recreation District’s Brite Lake tree adoption opportunities and a recycling center. Music was provided by the Carden School Band, followed by bluegrass band “Geezers on the Loose.”

Across Tehachapi Boulevard at The Apple Shed, The California Wind Energy Museum and Resource Center held a “Wind Camp” for children and the public featuring a variety of exhibits explaining how wind is formed and how we harness wind energy. Children of all ages built wind socks to teach them about wind speed and wind direction. Clipper Windpower provided mini kites and Oak Creek Energy brought a nacelle from a real wind turbine.

The event was declared and huge success by sponsors like Main Street Tehachapi, Taste of Tehachapi, Tehachapi Valley Parks and Recreation District’s and others. Next year’s event promises to build from this year’s successful attendance and help contribute a positive message on Earth Day.