Lincolnville’s Willie Galimore Center will once again host the Earth Day Environmental Challenge Weekend, a two-day event offering educational entertainment.
Organized in conjunction with the St. Johns Democratic Party, the weekend will kick off with a forum Friday, April 21, followed by a “March for Science” on Saturday, April 22 in addition to a vendor showcase and educational activities. All events are free and open to the public.
Guests are invited to attend a panel discussion with audience participation to be moderated by former CNN anchor Brian J. Nelson beginning with a reception from 5 to 6 p.m. April 21 at the Willie Galimore Center. Light food and drink from Rype and Readi Market will be served, after which a panel will discuss environmental topics, including the rise of the sea level, environmental legislation, fracking, offshore drilling and beach re-nourishment. The six participating panelists include Matanzas Riverkeeper Neil Armingeon; environmental lawyer Jane West; Allen Tilley, Sierra Club member and professor emeritus University of North Florida; Environmental Youth Council President Hunter Miller; Chair of the Soil and Water Management Commission Chris Wadelton; and Bill Hamilton, environmental activist and owner of Southern Horticulture. The audience is encouraged to participate.
On Saturday, April 22, the “March for Science” will depart from the center at 9 a.m, occurring in conjunction with the march to take place in Washington, D.C. and other cities throughout the country. Following the walk, student science projects will be displayed indoors at the center. From 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., the center grounds will host environmental folk singer Emmett Carlisle, Uncle Eddie and Robin, Chelsea Saddler, Paul Garfinkel, Amy Hendrickson and Steve Lowe. A dunk tank contest, voter registration, face painting, exhibits, artwork and children’s activities will be held and provided by environmental organizations and vendors from around the country, and guests will have the opportunity to purchase arts and crafts. Food will be available for sale by Golden Glory Seafood and the Corner Market.
The Lincolnville Garden will be open for visitors to walk through mazes for vegetables and flowers, as well as to visit the traveling zoo from Whitney Labs. Cats and dogs will be available for adoption from Ayla’s Acres from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
“This event is designed to be a fun time for all with an emphasis on environmental awareness,” said event organizer John Pilecki. “It’s a chance for people to see and learn about local issues affecting our environment. More importantly, it’s an educational and fun day out with the family.”
Events and parking are free. For more information, contact organizer John Pilecki at johnpilecki@gmail.com, visit www.stjohnsdemocraticparty.org/2017-earth-day-events.html or call (904) 825-2336.
