Earth Day Celebrated at Bayonet Farm

A record number of people turned out to celebrate the 13th annual Earth Day at Holmdel's Bayonet Farm on May 1, say organizers. 

More than 800 people came to the scenic farm in the festival's 13th year. Last year's event, soaked by rain, attracted only 300. In earlier years, the attendees were typically numbered around 500 people, said an organizer, Carol Beckenstein. 

"I think this was our best year," said another volunteer, Janet Berk. "I talked to people today who had never been to the festival before." She said the success was due to pleasant weather, better publicity, and several new attractions for kids like the parrot and lizard show, as well as the petting zoo. "I think we may have hit a new high [in attendance]," she said. 

Many informative, earth-friendly exhibits could be found throughout the farm grounds. People visited the different areas and exhibit tables to learn how to contribute to a healthier planet, or just be more proactive about conservation in their own lives. 

Near the end of the day, a flood in the red barn caused an alarm to go off, which brought Holmdel Fire Company Number two and a police car roaring up the dirt farm road to investigate a possible electrical hazard situation. As a precaution, officials turned off the power and evacuated the red barn of musical groups and food vendors until an investigation could be completed, said Fire Dept. Chief Tom Savage.

The festivities continued without much interruption. In fact, that acoustic guitar duo sounded even better, as they sang to the listeners relaxed on folding chairs on the green grass, enjoying the warm sunshine.