How do we, as an organization, promote the beauty and the benefits of McDowell Mountain Regional Park to our neighbors? Maybe hold an “Expo” and invite the neighbors to explore their back yard treasure? (Expo is defined as a large exposition.)

That’s what the McDowell Park Association intends to do on March 7, 2009.

While a number of residents of Fountain Hills, Rio Verde and Tonto Verde make regular use of the Park, there are many others who are not really aware of the Park’s existence. MPA hopes to change this.

There are a number of events we hope to have during that day to show off the Park and promote its many benefits and uses.

Tentatively, the event is planned for March 7, between 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. Entrance to the Park will be free for this event.

More details of the event will be publicized as the date nears. Some tentative events planned are:

* Some renovation will be taking place at the Park’s Visitor’s Center this winter and we want to “show off” these changes at the Expo. So the changes at the Visitor’s Center will be a centerpiece of the event.

* For those interested, a film on the Park will be shown at intervals at the Visitor’s Center.

* Plans now call for short hikes to be given on the hour. Others can just take maps of the Park and go and explore any and all of the trails.

* A mountain bike ride is planned.

* A talk on the flora and fauna in the Park is planned at hourly intervals.

* We hope to have some animals there on display from Southwest Wildlife.

* Bargain prices on hot dogs, chips and a soda should be available.

Other events are in the planning stage. If you have any ideas, contact an officer.

For our members, it is a day to mark on the calendar now and bring the entire family (and encourage your neighbors to also attend!).