Keesler celebrates Earth, Arbor Day Published April 16, 2009 By Susan Griggs 81st Training Wing Public Affairs KEESLER AIR FORCE BASE, BILOXI, MISS. -- Keesler's first Great Green Expo is the centerpiece event for the base's Earth and Arbor Day observance, Wednesday. From 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., 29 exhibits are planned from businesses, government agencies and nonprofit organizations emphasizing environmental restoration, wildlife, renewable energy, water conservation and sustainable living. Students from area schools have been invited. "We encourage the entire base to bring their lunch out to the marina to enjoy the displays and music," said Marcella Whitfield, base resource efficiency manager. "The first 200 people attending the expo receive an energy-saving light bulb and a tree. The state wildlife department will be bringing in a few wild friends to share. and there'll be demonstrations of green cars and solar panel." Visitors can sign up for a 1 p.m. tour of one the 736 Keesler homes certified by the Leadership and Energy and Environmental Design residential project. The tour departs from the marina and lasts 30-45 minutes. Other events: 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. -- tours of base recycling center for school children. 9 a.m. to noon -- hazardous household waste turn-in outside recycling center. Hazardous waste is anything classified as flammable, corrosive, toxic, poisonous or reactive, including old household paints, cleaners, oil or petroleum products and most other chemicals. Items should be brought in original containers, if possible. 10:30 a.m. -- National Arbor Day tree planting. For more information, call Ms. Whitfield, 218-7867, or Melissa Jones, 377-1262.