Celebrate Earth Day at the YMCA with free 'Silent Spring' learning program

Concerned about our planet? You should be.

The Earth's sustainable resources are no longer in limitless supply and behind the scenes the fragile ecosystem is weakening at an alarming rate.

Consider this: As pollinators, bees play a part in every aspect of the ecosystem. They support the growth of trees, flowers and other plants, which serve as food and shelter for creatures large and small. Bees contribute to complex, interconnected ecosystems that allow a diverse number of different species to co-exist.

And now, honey bees are on the edge of extinction – because of widely used pesticides. So, it's probably time for all of us to wake up and hopefully still smell the honey ...

Join us on Tuesday, April 23 (the day after Earth Day), from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. for a special "green" event. The West Shore Family YMCA has partnered with Case Western Reserve's Siegal Lifelong Learning to present "Rachel Carson: A Heroine for All Seasons." Carson is the author of the ground breaking book, "Silent Spring."

"Silent Spring" is one of the most consequential books in American history. Carson earned a reputation for her lyrical works celebrating the beauty, mystery and healing power of nature. Then, she risked it all by writing "Silent Spring" and challenging the 1960s establishment regarding the injudicious use of pesticides.

Vilified, but ultimately vindicated, her influence transcends the pesticide issue. Rachel Carson inspired the rise of the environmental movement and the passage of landmark laws.

This lifelong learning program, led by Cheryl Wires, is well-timed to coincide with Earth Day.

Come join us in the celebration and bring a food dish to share for a potluck lunch in honor of this special event. And, maybe bring along some honey. That would be the bee's knees.

This event is free and open to the public, but registration is required, 440-871-6885. A free tree sapling will be offered to the first 50 registrants. The West Shore Family YMCA is located at 1575 Columbia Road, Westlake.