Reflections

I cannot begin to put into words how much I have benefited from this project. A year or so ago I knew almost nothing about what climate change meant and how my actions affect the world. After traveling to DC and showing the other delegations our idea to make an educational movie on climate change, the whole project got real. The best part of the project for me was the very first premiere at the aquarium, seeing all the people interested in our work was amazing. Another part of the project that was really great for me was creating action plans and seeing our viewers do the same. In my action plan, which hangs in my room, I said I wanted to make it our mission for this project to impact people in my life, community and even the world. And so far I have to believe that we are doing just that!

Thanks! Keela

In Conclusion...

Throughout this project, I have learned many things. The most poignant lesson, however, is that the climate issue effects all species. I first realized this when I stood on Bald Head Island and realized that animals could potentially go extinct because of our actions. Because of the simple choices we make each and every day. It is through those same simple choices that we make a difference on the world. How big of a difference we make is up to us. Not everyone will become a "hippie," and fulfill that stereotype. But we can take our resusable bags. And we can recycle. And we can save water. What's more, we can save the earth if we act with it in mind. It's as simple as that. Act with the earth in mind. Before you throw something away, think about where it might end up. Before you answer the question "Paper or Plastic?" at the checkout line, ponder if there might be a better solution. The bottom line, friends, is to do the best we can, when we can, and where we can. If each and every person did that, then the world would be a better place to live. 

Enjoy some never before seen pictures of our journey!

 The View from our Hotel at night.

The group in front of the treasury with some of their finest products...

Mr. Bishop with the California state symbol. Coincidentally, it is also Isaac Bear's Mascot! :) 

In Washington, they don't have "stairs." They have Internal Relocation Sites. 

Jean Michel Cousteau speaking to the summit.  

 This was the view on the way to Washington.

My favorite picture yet. The view on the way home. The light represents bright things on the horizon for our group and our project! 

Thanks for all your support in this process! 

--Evan

Final Thoughts

It’s been over a year now, and the Cape Fear Beach Bears are still working hard to educate the public on Global Climate Change! One of my favorite moments of working on this project was going to Washington, DC last February to present our project to other delegations. It was so amazing to see a group of individuals come together and work on an issue that we are all so passionate about. Another highlight of working on this project was going to Bald Head Island last year (Bald Head trip #1) and learning about the maritime forests. Before going to Bald Head Island, I was not aware of the importance of these forests. Learning that there could be species that live in the maritime forest that have never even been discovered before fascinated me the most (especially since these species could go extinct and the world would never know).

What I really want other people to know is that global climate change is real. It is happening. BUT, there are easy ways that we all can help effect, positively effect, that is, the environment. Small, simple actions, such as turning of the lights when you leave the room, taking shorter showers, and buying locally are all ways that each person can help make an impact! So, why not? Also, I want people to know that it is our duty to help the environment, because this is our home, our friends home, and the home to future generations.

As for the future of this project, I hope that the movie circulates around Wilmington, into schools, so that the youth can learn about this issue and start working on it early on. I also hope that the movie is shown to all ages, because everyone can learn from it and understand where they fit in the process of improving the environment!

Jessica

Smithsonian Ocean Portal

In case you haven't watched our film in all of its many forms, you can now visit us on the Smithsonian Ocean Portal. They have graciously hosted us here. Check us out.

This holiday consider giving gift cards to local businesses. Who doesn't need a hair cut or an oil change? This will help support your local economy while cutting down on the number of items we import from across the world. That in turn cuts down on your carbon footprint! Thank you for all of your support this year!

Bald Head Visit #2

I know it has been a while since our last post. The premiere went off without a hitch. It was well received. We had over 200 people attend with another 30 people watching online. It was thrilling for everyone involved.

You can see more pictures from the event here.

This weekend we were invited to the Bald Head Island Conservancy to show our film and lead a discussion with island residents.

It was well received and the students were wonderful as always. Following the showing, the students had a questions answer session and really impressed the audience.

We made it to the beach in time for the sunset

After a late night hike we stayed up to play catch phrase. What a great game. The students were not very thrilled to get up to catch the 7:30 ferry back to the mainland so they took a nap on the way back.

We were lucky enough to have a dolphin join us on our way back.

It was another successful trip. If you still haven't seen our film, please check it out at www.weseachange.weebly.com.
Thanks!
Megan

Premiere Eve

Tomorrow is our big day. I can't believe it's time already!
Yesterday we were featured on the local news. You can watch it here.


Tomorrow, if you can't make the premiere, you'll be able to watch us live on U-Stream. At 6:45 EST sign on and get loaded. The link to use can be found here.

There is a chat feature were you can ask questions during the panel discussion. I can't believe it's finally here. The website is almost finished too. You can find it here tomorrow afternoon!
Thanks for all your support this year.
Megan

Four Days To Go

The Big Premiere of our film will be THIS WEDNESDAY at the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher. The event will take place from 6:30pm-8:30pm. We will have several environmental organizations participating in the festivities including the Cape Fear Museum and Airlie Gardens.

Check out this great article on us in the Lumina News this week. Also look for us on the 5:30 news on WWAY on Monday! I can't believe it's finally time to premiere!