The Albemarle County Fair at Monroe’s Highland proved to be a great experience for fair goers and CATS members alike. This year we supplied two tables full of information and activities for adults and children.
Table one provided space for many tree-related leaflets and displays. Tom Wild‘s Tree ID Wheel is always appreciated by those trying to learn our trees. Other displays included a leaf/tree matching game, a cookie tree age guessing display, and a pruning tree. Hung above were the beautiful leaf silhouettes crafted by Marje Giuliano.
At Table Two children made pretty leaf rubbings and learned the importance leaves have for trees. They also crafted red cedar cookie necklaces. These were so popular that you could find them around the necks of many young fairgoers.
This event’s success can be attributed to the planning and attention to detail by Anne Benheim, CATS tabling chairman, and to the many members who worked at the event. From Anne, “We had over seventy (70) signups for our CATS email list, the most for one event in the past four years!”
Our experience tabling is summed up by President Bill Sublete :
“Working the fair is such an enriching experience—to spend time with young families with children, older folks with grandchildren, people who are new to our country, people who have lived here forever and who know our trees and plant communities better than any of us. And spending time with our colleagues. Magical moments. Looking forward to next year. “