DISCUSSING THE NEED FOR CHANGE

“This is the power of gathering: it inspires us, delightfully, to be more hopeful, more joyful, more thoughtful: in a word, more alive.”

        - Alice Waters

On Saturday, April 28th at the Thunder Valley Casino in Lincoln, Northern California, 26 men and women gathered to discuss the need for change in our world and to share what was in their hearts. The elegant setting of the Sierra Room was calm and welcoming as guests sat down to brunch and prepared for guest speakers and a panel discussion. Emcee Katja Chisholm then welcomed the guest speakers who shared about their inspirational work and causes.

Sylvia Villalobos opened with a presentation on the International World Peace Rose Gardens. She will hold a Bridge of Peace ceremony on July 4 in the Sacramento Peace Rose Garden, near the State Capitol. Her event will be called "Interdependence Day."

Mrs. Neelam Canto-Lugo spoke about her project, "Crossing Borders, Building Bridges," focusing on her work to end poverty in Bangladesh. She urged everyone to overcome materialism and selfish individualism. "We need to help each other."

Rachanee Jackson, gave an impassioned speech about the need for justice in America, focusing on the unequal treatment of black men by police.

A riveting discussion was led by moderator Judy Heary. Afterward, each of the speakers was presented with a gift basket, and Sylvia Villalobos gave a bouquet of roses to Maree Gauper, Chairwoman of the local WFWP chapter and chief organizer of the event. Everyone walked away inspired by the causes and ready to be a part of change.

June Canak of Reno helped Junko Eagle with guest reception and registration.
Photography and videography were done by Yoshitomo Naka of Reno and Eleonore de Watteville of Sacramento.