2018 World Oceans Day Perdido Key

PKA is once again co-sponsoring an annual World Oceans Day event on Perdido Key, along with the Friends of Pensacola State Parks and Florida State Parks, New this year is sponsorship by Visit Pensacola with a generous grant that has helped provide additional attractions for the event. This worldwide celebration draws attention to the benefits and wonders of the oceans, but also to the threats to ocean health.  "We believe the event is a great opportunity for an entertaining and educational trip to the beach," says Charles Krupnick, president of the Perdido Key Association. "Groups and individuals are welcome to visit the West Use Area of the Perdido Key State Park on June 8 at no charge. We believe all ages will appreciate and enjoy the many participating activities."
Discovery Depot from the Navarre Beach Marine Science Station will feature hands-on exhibits, such as an “interactive touch tank, artificial reefs, lionfish, and marine debris,” accompanied by educators from the Santa Rosa County School District. This is an impressive activity and tailor-made to interest children in science and the environment.  For more on Discovery Depot, go to https://www.navarresciencestation.org/.  
Presenters and displays of ocean-related issues, including Rick O’Connor of Sea Grant on the lionfish threat, Mickey Quigley of Florida State Parks on sea turtles, an Audubon Society representative on shore birds, University of West Florida graduate students on ocean health issues – including acidification and plastic pollution, and a visit by “Monty” – a rescued screech owl under the care of the Wildlife Sanctuary of Northwest Florida. 
The Emerald Coast Kite Flyers Club will have colorful kites in the air while The Paradise Sandman (sand sculpture artist David Robertson) will build one of his fanciful creations on the beach. He will also contribute his expertise to instruct young people on sand sculpture and help with a sand sculpture competition. See his achievements on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/TheParadiseSandman/.  
The World Oceans Day event will be from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm on Friday, June 8, 2018 at the West Use Area of the Perdido Key State Park on Perdido Key Drive. Parking and admission will be free and ADA restrooms available.  For more information about Perdido Key's World Oceans Day go to https://perdidokeyassociation.org or contact charles.krupnick@gmail.com at (334) 482-2843.
Facebook Event Page Link:  https://www.facebook.com/events/407379683061932/