Earth Day 2016 is Friday, April 22, a significant anniversary of the first Earth Day celebration on April 22, 1970. That day brought millions of Americans to streets, parks, and auditoriums to demonstrate for a healthy, sustainable environment. Over the years the movement has grown to include billions of participants around the globe.
       Writer Meredith Montgomery’s special update on Earth Day actions is featured on page 30. Included is an inviting list of happenings here at home. It is apparent: local green and environmentally conscious people and groups are in total sync with the movement’s continuing momentum. From fun entertainment and arts and crafts to enlightening exhibits on green-friendly building, gardening, energy-water conservation, and more, the Tampa Bay community continues to shine, each year, in its own unique way. 
       In “Everyday Sustainability” (page 32) authors and eco-environmentalists Lisa Kivirist and John Ivanko describe practical ways people across the U.S. are helping make life on Earth more sustainable while enriching their own lives as well. It’s an article sure to inspire grassroots action.
    Who knew when we were growing up that access to fresh water supplies would someday shrink to such threatening lows? In “Troubled Waters” (page 34) writer Linda Sechrist fills us in on this pending dilemma, offering fruitful ways we can each work on solutions. Clearly, we must reexamine our approach to the use and preservation of this precious natural resource. As always, open your mind and read on.