Anschutz to hold transportation, conservation event

There aren't many festivities at the Anschutz Medical Campus—somehow saving lives takes precedence over having fun—but, on Earth Day, April 22, Anschutz will host an all-afternoon extravaganza.

Jarrett Smith, Anschutz sustainability officer, said, before chuckling, "We've got a logo and everything. It's pretty big-time."

The Earth Day event may not be a slumber party at Lady Gaga's house, but the four-hour funfest is, according to Smith, a great way for students and faculty to relax, celebrate Earth Day, and learn about eco-conservation opportunities available at the medical campus.

Smith said that this will be the first annual celebration at Anschutz in honor of Earth Day, and the idea came about as a way to promote upcoming transportation options that will be made available to students in order to facilitate greener commuting.

"We certainly are very excited about this event," said Carol Calkins, director of finance, administration, and support services. "We have had a really great response from people who want to participate."

Calkins said student groups have gotten involved in the event, and are a great contribution to its anticipated success. "Student senate has been a very strong supporter," she said. "All the student groups have been great."

Calkins explained that Anschutz already works hard to conserve on campus. "We have a recycling program in place that we are constantly looking to improve," she said.

The first new transportation option being introduced at the event is Flex Pass, a new bus and light rail pass available to Anschutz students.

The second option is Zimride, a online networking car-sharing service. "People can create an account, like you can on Facebook," Smith said. "You can partner with people who share similar schedules."

He said the new transportation options were a reason to celebrate Earth Day—to couple eco-awareness with marketing.

"We feel like people are so busy on campus that they don't realize all the resources they have," Smith said. "This event is a chance to showcase some of those resources."
During the event, booths will be set up to offer students and faculty a chance to become familiar with the services offered on campus.

Some of the featured guests will be the Colorado Governor's Energy Office, UC Denver Facilities Management, and CU Procurements. These organizations will answer questions and explain resources.

The launch of the bicycle-lending program at the medical campus will occur during this event, and Wok n Roll and the Bookstore Brew will offer $5 grab-and-go lunches.

Smith said that if this event is successful, Anschutz can look forward to more. "We are hoping for this to become an annual event," he said, "and for it to grow every year."

The event takes place from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on the lawn in front of Building 500. Smith said to "look for the Earth Day flags."