In this job, which I am so blessed to have, we quite often have the opportunity to experience community activities that we more than likely wouldn't participate in otherwise.

Several years ago I was honored to be asked to do a live broadcast from the Big Sioux River Greenway Cleanup. The purpose, of course, was to encourage people to come down and help pick up garbage and recyclables along the banks of the Big Sioux.

And, Sioux Falls residents came out in droves!

There are people in our area who have no trouble leaving their trash on the river greenway.  In fact, there are idiots who bring trash, including tires and appliances, sports equipment, and even shoes and clothing, and dump them in the river or along the banks!

But, there are also people who want a clean, river greenway and recreation trail environment for everyone. These are the people who will be at the 7th Annual Big Sioux River Greenway Cleanup, the day after Earth Day, on Saturday, April 23, from 10 AM to Noon.

The Earth Day theme this year is "Invest in Our Planet" and this is a perfect way to do it.

You don't need to pre-register, but it would be appreciated. The cleanup is going on at 8 different locations along the bike trail and you can register for one or more locations.

You'll be asked to sign a waiver before you start, and the park staff will remind you to be extra careful.

Gloves, trash bags, and maps will be provided. All you have to add is your desire to beautify our city. Over the years, this project which celebrates the Earth Day initiative has removed thousands of pounds of trash from the banks of the Big Sioux.

If only people would stop dumping the garbage in the first place.

For more information and to pre-register, see the Big Sioux River Greenway Cleanup.

The Oldest Wood-Framed Church In Sioux Falls

Saint Joseph Cathedral at 521 N Duluth Ave in Sioux Falls was founded in 1915. But that's not the oldest church in the city. The Beaver Creek Lutheran Church at Heritage Park on the Augustana College campus at 33rd & S. Prairie Ave. was built in 1892, making it the oldest wood-framed church in Sioux Falls.

Pam Cole Executive Director of the Nordland Heritage Foundation says there are some exciting events and future plans involving Heritage Park. Tours of this wonderful look into the prairie past are available Wed. - Sat. from 10 am to 3 pm and by appointment.

 

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