FLORENCE– The Shoals Earth Day Fest Board of Directors unveiled the winner of the design contest for the 10th annual event. The design contest was open to Shoals area 4th through 12th grade students. Students were encouraged to use their own experiences and inspiration to create earth friendly themed art work. The winner was chosen by a panel of Earth Day Fest volunteers.
Drake Spears, a 10th grader at Wilson High School and Adverting and Design student at Allen Thornton Career Tech Center was named the contest winner. He interest in the Earth Day cause led him to enter the contest. “It is important that people recognize we need to take care of the Earth. I tried to incorporate many elements that speak to everyone about this serious issue but in a fun way,” Drake explained of his design.
Nancy Muse-President of Shoals Earth Day Fest
According to Nancy Muse, Shoals Earth Day Fest Board of Directors President, “Drake’s artwork captured the spirit of Earth Day with his originality and creativity. He incorporated solar energy, wildlife, recycling, growth in nature and taking care of the Earth.” All artwork submitted by students is now on display in the Gallery at the Florence/Lauderdale Tourism Visitor Center and will be 
available to view though the duration of the event.
The 10th Annual Earth Day Fest will be held April 8, 2017 from 11:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. on the grounds of the Florence/Lauderdale Tourism Visitor Center located in McFarland Park. Activities will include Native American dance, performances by eco-entertainer Steve Trash, arts and crafts vendors, live music and children’s activities. The event is free to the public and you are encouraged to bring lawn chairs.
Florence/Lauderdale Tourism Director of Operations Alison Stanfield stated, “We have been
Alison Stanfield
involved with the Earth Day Fest from the very beginning and are honored to be the host location for this years event. The entertainment lineup is great and we will also be hosting special presentations and entertainment inside the Visitor Center. This is a fun, family friendly event that focuses on how we all are responsible for taking care of our planet.”
Vendor booths are still available and are free for non-profit and $25 for all others. The rain location will the Sheffield Recreation Center. For additional information, vendor applications and complete schedule visit www.ShoalsEarthMonth.com or call 256-740-4141.
Media Release/Florence/Lauderdale Tourism/Alison Stanfield
