news release

The Environmental Learning Center’s new Thomas R. Schidel Education and Event Pavilion will be unveiled on Saturday April 23rd with a Grand Opening Gala celebration from 7:00-10:00 PM.  (Please note this is a date change from March 26th).  Chris Foster of FW Productions is producing an immersive entertainment experience inspired by a visit to the ELC.  After walking in the natural setting and taking the nonprofit’s mission to heart, he was inspired to write the music and lyrics for RESTORATION.   

 “Our Gala attendees will be in for a sensory treat as the message of the importance of our planet’s health and the connection to human well-being is shared through original song, dance, art, video and decor creations. This top-notch production will demonstrate the capability of this versatile new event venue for our community.”  Barbara Schlitt Ford-Executive Director ELC

The pavilion is part of a five-year Master Plan and will expand the Environmental Learning Center’s offerings as an event venue for concerts, life celebrations, festivals, theater, movies, corporate events, and fundraisers.   

“As an entertainer and producer, I try to pull from places of truth.  Very few moments in life align as they have with this project.   When truth, vision, and creativity come together it opens a space of possibility for creating a true playground of magic.”      Chris Foster-FW Productions

Chris Foster is well-known for his high energy productions for cruise lines and casino showrooms and the ELC’s premier entertainment will showcase the

Thomas R. Schidel Education and Event Pavilion in spectacular style. RESTORATION’s world class talent includes Motown recording artist and songwriter Regi Brown along with “Bahamian Idol ” winner Travis Brown, who is recognized for his edgy style, high octane vocals and YouTube popularity.  Shannon Beach Loureiro is the choreographer for RESTORATION and her credits include working with Cher, Pink, Britney Spears, and Taylor Swift.     

Sponsors will enjoy a “behind the scenes” tour 6:00-7:00 PM. In addition to the RESTORATION show on several stages, the Gala includes a Red-Carpet Photo Experience, Paella Presentation, open bar, and music for dancing with Miami’s high-energy DJ Cardi.

Mr. Schidel is a retired engineer and inventor.  During his career he traveled the world and enjoyed hiking and exploring the outdoors. His interaction with the Environmental Learning Center began with a gheenoe (motorized canoe) donation.  With a desire for more people to experience the beauty of nature, he has pledged $1.35 million for the design, construction and maintenance of the Education and Event Pavilion.  

The facility enables new programs and revenue generation while incorporating environmentally friendly features consistent with the ELC’s mission. The pavilion is located on the north side of a large grassy area known as the Oval. The space is surrounded by Florida native plants and will serve as an area for guests to relax while they enjoy lectures, musical performances, and other educational programs.

Vero Beach Outlets is the Presenting Sponsor for the Gala and Pavilion Unveiling.  This event is two thirds sold out at this time so visit DiscoverELC.org to view sponsorship and ticket information for the Pavilion Grand Opening RESTORATION Gala or contact: Sue Harr: Sue@DiscoverELC.org for more info.

With a mission to educate, inspire and empower all people to be active stewards of the environment and their own well-being, the ELC is committed to sharing the importance of protecting and restoring our natural resources. The Environmental Learning Center is open seven days a week and is located at the west side of the Wabasso Bridge on the Indian River Lagoon in Vero Beach, Florida.  For more information on the activities and programs at the ELC, please visit  www.DiscoverELC.org.