By VERNA BROCK

I hope everyone has been able to partake in some of the many Earth Day activities being offered all this past week. Growing from a single day in 1970, Earth Day began from concerns about the changing climate, superfund pollution sites and increasing cancer clusters. It now encompasses more than a week of education, awareness and activism. Remember, a small commitment can make a big difference when we all work together.

I have heard nothing but praise and enthusiasm for the celebration of the arts held at Wakulla High School this past weekend. Congratulations to students at every level for sharing their creativity, talent and artistic skills. To the teachers who provide inspiration and leadership to our musicians, performers and artists, we thank and salute you! Our school system is so blessed to have your dedicated service to our children.

I’m happy to report Ms. Clem Bunker is growing stronger every day. Norma Woodcock is doing well following her recent illness, as is Leah Pearson and Thelma Watts. Please keep each of these admirable women in your prayers. Mr. Jimmy Gainey, Mr. Cary Hart, and Ms. Deborah Giles also need our prayers as they deal with health issues. I have the sad task of reporting the death of Sondra Martin, after a brief illness. Please hold her family close in prayer as they mourn a beloved member of the family.

This coming Saturday, April 27th, there will be a church garage sale at the Wakulla United Methodist Church, on the bike trail. If you would like to participate and make a little money, you are invited to join in. The sale will begin at 8 a.m., and go until 2 p.m.. If you don’t own a table, the church has a few tables they can provide, for a $20 donation per table. All proceeds go directly to support the monthly Food Pantry at the church. Even though prices are beginning to come down, it continues to take more funds to provide the same amount of groceries as before the Pandemic. Come out, find a bargain or two, make some cash and help this vital ministry continue.

The Olin/General Dynamics annual family picnic was this past weekend, and was held at the SMP campground. The campground is an amazing resource for employees, situated as it is on the beautiful Wakulla River. Johnston’s Meats, out of Monticello, catered the event, serving up delicious grilled sausage, hamburger and hot dogs, with all the traditional sides and fixin’s. They had their distinctive, old-fashioned Rolling Store there too.
You may have spotted the Rolling Store around Wakulla County, as they offer the same great beef, sausage, pork, and so much more for sale a couple times a month. They proudly raise and slaughter their own meats, and you just can’t beat the quality!
There were face painters and entertainers from BJ’s Party house, along with bounce houses and lots of games for the kids. A sketch artist was doing fun, interpretative portraits of anyone wanting a piece of original art, and a DJ kept the beats coming. Thanks also to the school system for providing a shuttle bus from the plant to the campground. Participants got to catch up with old friends, teammates and their families while having a great day with perfect weather.