"Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it's the only thing that ever has." ~Margaret Meed

This is a favorite quote of Vicki Randolph, member of New River Earth Institute, park ranger and freelance writer who does her part to protect the environment for today and tomorrow. “It reminds me that no matter what other people aren't doing, it always matters what I am doing!” she said.

In that spirit, Randolph is planning a special Earth Day celebration this Saturday at the Ashe County Farmer’s Market. From 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., there will be recycle art activities for kids, information on money saving and Earth saving tips, an opportunity to learn how to make recycled paper, free face painting and much more, sponsored by New River Earth Institute. Young and old alike can learn ways to help protect their natural home.

New River Earth Institute, headquartered in Boone, is a nonprofit educational foundation seeking to motivate individuals to examine personal actions, habits and values as they relate to environmental issues. It encourages people to analyze and take action, using personal strategies, to protect the environment. As a sister of the Northwest Earth Institute of Portland, OR, New River Earth Institute joins the national network of Earth Institutes in bringing understanding and inspiration to communities throughout the country.

The Farmer’s Market is a natural environment for the celebration of Earth Day (scheduled April 22) because of the handmade and homegrown items vendors produce from their own land and resources in Ashe County. Randolph has been collecting various items for kids to use in creating recycled art and functional products.

Open on Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. on the Backstreet in West Jefferson, the Ashe County Farmer’s Market offers a wide variety of homegrown produce, greenery and plants along with handmade arts and crafts.