In the heart of Charlton, Massachusetts, the Select Board meeting on April 22, 2025, buzzed with anticipation as community members gathered to discuss pressing local initiatives. Among the highlights was a spirited conversation about the upcoming Earth Day celebration, a cherished event that brings residents together for a day of environmental stewardship and community bonding.

Phillip Hamlin and Karen Sweewax, representatives from the Earth Day Planning Group, took center stage to rally support for the event scheduled for Saturday. They urged residents to register online for street cleanups, emphasizing the importance of participation in keeping Charlton beautiful. “We’ve got quite a number of registrations already, but we still have some streets available,” Hamlin noted, encouraging everyone to join in the effort.

The day promises to be filled with activities, starting with sign-ins at 8:00 AM on the common, where volunteers will receive sturdy trash bags, gloves, and even wildflower seeds to plant. The cleanup will run until noon, after which the festivities of EarthFest will commence, featuring local vendors, food trucks, and musical entertainment. In case of inclement weather, the event will move indoors to the library’s Dexter Hall, ensuring that the spirit of Earth Day remains unshaken.

The board members expressed optimism about participation levels this year, with a notable increase in new registrants. “There were about 30 new registrants,” Sweewax shared, highlighting the growing awareness and enthusiasm within the community. Flyers, social media posts, and local newspaper coverage have all contributed to spreading the word, making this year’s event one of the most anticipated yet.

As the meeting wrapped up, the board members reflected on the importance of community involvement in such initiatives. With the dumpster available for cleanup debris until Monday, residents have a chance to contribute even if they cannot participate on the day itself. The collective effort not only beautifies the town but also fosters a sense of unity among its residents.

As Earth Day approaches, the excitement in Charlton is palpable, with hopes that the weather will cooperate to allow for a successful and enjoyable celebration. The community stands ready to come together, proving that even small actions can lead to significant change.