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   Happy Dancing Turtle and Pine River-Backus Community Education will host the 18th Annual Back to Basics sustainable living event at Pine River-Backus School on Saturday, February 17, 2024.

   Workshops, vendors, exhibitors, lunch, door prizes, and a keynote speaker are planned for the event which runs from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Attend the morning keynote address and the all-day vendor/exhibitor fair for free. Register to participate in a full day of workshops, choosing from over 50 offerings on topics such as food, DIY, gardening, health & wellness, and environmental sustainability.

   Dr. Mark Seeley, a Minnesota meteorologist and climatologist, will present the keynote. “Dr. Seeley will be discussing changes to weather patterns and climate, how those changes affect Minnesota’s natural resources as well as all residents here. His expertise includes insights on the relationship between climate and agriculture,” said Happy Dancing Turtle Executive Director Quinn Swanson.

   Running concurrently throughout the day will be the free Back to Basics Vendor/Exhibitor Fair which requires no registration and is open from 8-4. Visit more than 50 booths of sustainably themed vendors and chat with knowledgeable people while stocking up on handmade and locally sourced foods, house goods, woodcraft items, clothing, and more.

   “From the record number of workshop proposals to the variety of new and returning vendors/exhibitors, there is great momentum for this to be an outstanding event,” Michelle Hoefs, one of the primary event coordinators, commented. “The synergy of so many people sharing ideas, products, and information on sustainable living make for an inspiring day.”

   It does take a lot of hands to make it a successful day. Happy Dancing Turtle is looking for helpers to contribute their time and energy for the event. In exchange for 4 hours of help, volunteers receive lunch, an event t-shirt, and will have the opportunity to attend workshops. Email [email protected] if you would like to volunteer or call 218-587-2303.

   Full-day registration for workshops is $35, with discounts for senior citizens and students. Á la carte options are also available. Participant registration opens January 5; register online at www.happydancingturtle.org/back-to-basics-workshops. Walk-in registration is available the day of the event, although some workshops may have filled. It is recommended to register early to reserve the workshops you wish to attend.

   Happy Dancing Turtle is a nonprofit dedicated to growing good stewards of the planet by providing education, programs, and experiences for youth and adults that inspire wonder and empower change.

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