To commemorate Earth Day, facilities management students in the William F. Harrah College of Hotel Administration will hold an educational event for Paradise Elementary School students from 1-3 p.m. April 11 on UNLV's campus.

More than 500 students are expected to attend the event, which will include a variety of activities related to protecting and conserving the Earth's natural resources. Students will learn the importance of reducing, reusing, and recycling resources through fun, hands-on activities.

"This group of college students decided that they wanted to make a difference in the lives of these elementary students," said Tara Pike, Rebel Recycling coordinator. "They have worked hard to design activities that will be both educational and fun."

UNLV facilities management students have hosted the Earth Day event for the past four years. With their help, Paradise Elementary is now implementing a plan to recycle aluminum cans and plastic bottles. The school will not only recycle products from its own waste stream, but will also act as a depository for the recyclables from the students' homes.

"It is very exciting to be a part of this event team," said Frankie Lococo, student manager for the event. "I know the Paradise Elementary students and faculty look forward to this event every year, and this year will set the standard for the years to come. Our goal is to educate the students in a way that will encourage them to continue resource management outside of the classroom walls.

"This will be a fun and exciting event. We have so many things planned for the kids," student manager Cristina Newcombe said. "We are providing a great educational experience for over 500 'at-risk' children. Not only will they learn a lot, but as managers we will gain an invaluable experience."

For more information, contact Tara Pike at 895-3760 or Frankie Lococo at 326-2415.