In a not so subtle attempt, this Saturday’s Hog Fest will make us aware of what energy “hogs” most of us are.
The event will have a number of exhibits on energy efficiencies plus a drawing for free gasoline and Chamber Bucks.
Hog Fest is from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Riverside Park and is part of Iola’s Take Charge Challenge in its competition to win $100,000.
Iola is neck and neck with Chanute for the SEK Energy Challenge, said Becky Nilges, one of the coordinators of Saturday’s Hog Fest.
Among the exhibits at the Recreation Community Building is the Flynn Appliance Hog Buster House to view ways to reduce energy consumption through everyday activities such as cooking and doing laundry.
Larry Wittmer, Iola High School building trades instructor, will explain materials needed to weatherize a home. Wittmer will show how easy to is to use chalking, weather stripping and insulation.
Local 4H-ers will show their energy-focused projects on lighting and water use.
Dale’s Sheet Metal and Diebolt Lumber will each have a booth showing methods to save on heating and cooling costs with energy efficient windows and insulation.
Eileen Smith will give demonstrations on solar energy.
Hog Row will feature Charlie Johnson of the Christian Motorcycle Club.
Twin Motors will have hybrid cars on display.
And the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks will give fishing and camping tips and as well as free giveaways.
YOUR NOSE will lead you to Keg’s BBQ Pit where Jason and Tara Kegler will have a booth set up selling their mouth-watering pulled pork and beef sandwiches.
This is also the day to switch out incandescent light bulbs for CFL bulbs in helping Iola compete for the $100,000 prize.
Other recyclables are also welcome at Recycle Row where containers will be available for aluminum cans, newspapers, flip flops, phone books and plastic beverage containers.
Even the Lion’s Club will have a receptacle for eye glasses.
Every person who walks in the door Saturday will help Iola get closer to the goal of having the greatest participation among the competing communities of Parsons, Chanute, Pittsburg and Fort Scott.
