We want to thank Andre from Rogers TV for creating such a nice story about our events yesterday.
Our first event of the day was an engaging ceremony at Gagetown School. The teachers took part in a relay passing the torch back and forth while the students cheered them on at decibel levels that are so far unmatched on this Peace Run!
Time for skits! Our Canadian runners are getting ready for their race.
Carrying an "injured" runner as an example of a peaceful action.
The teachers pass the torch to one another.
Even though it was a cold and drizzly day, we headed out for a run with the kids!
Oliveria with a handmade torch and peace artwork.
The team ran in to Gesner Elementary led by our two newest team members, Pavaka and Antana!
There was so much beautiful artwork on all of the walls.
The children sang us a wonderful rendition of "Light a Candle for Peace" and they even included harmonies.
Deputy Mayor Jocelyn Pike greeted us outside of Fredericton City Hall, it was actually her birthday today! Of course, we all sang her Happy Birthday after singing our Peace Run song.
A nice crowd came out to receive the Peace Torch.
We formed a circle around the fountain and passed the torch around.
The Deputy Mayor offered some kind words, she said;
"It is amazing to see so many people gathered here. Families, kids, neighbours, friends and folks who have come from near and far, welcome. You need to know that each and every single one of you belong here. It is indeed an honour for me to welcome The Sri Chinmoy Oneness-Home Peace Run in our city today. What's this Peace Run all about, you ask me? It started in 1987, by a man who truly believed that peace isn't something distant or unreachable but something we build together, right here, right now."
Kathi Zwicker of Gamechangers Atlantic Rotary held the torch with Grahak from Australia.
We visited Park Street School in Fredericton where the children held up their beautiful artwork for us to see during the ceremony. They were extremely enthusiastic throughout and we had such a nice time with the students and teachers.
After that, the team headed to Deer Lake to visit the Hanson Art Gallery and Nature Preserve.
We were warmly received by Robin Hanson along with his assistant, his wife and his son, in his tranquil and magical art gallery.
The team dug into the spread of donuts and coffee that he kindly provided us with.
He gave us a tour, explaining the symbolism and stories behind some of his paintings. This particular piece has images hidden within the clouds.
There were wonderful bird sculptures "flying" around the ceiling that was painted like a sky.
Robin Hanson is a Canadian treasure, and we were very happy to honour him with the Torch-Bearer Award.
He is the founder of the Hanson Art Gallery and the incredible Hanson Nature Preserve.
A prolific Renaissance man, he is an artist, painter, sculptor, photographer, writer, environmentalist, story-teller and more.
He is passionate about fostering a connection with nature in all who visit this special place.
Pavaka presented him with the medal.
He led us along dirt roads to a remarkable structure that he built, a bird watching tower near a wetland.
A selfie from the very top of the tower.
A real highlight was walking through the sculpture garden and exploring all of the creative treasures.
This chain was carved out of one piece of wood with no seams!
Adarini discovered some creatures of her own species!
A 27 foot long T-Rex sculpture!
We were very taken with Robin's creative output and his genuine love for nature. This art gallery and nature preserve are such a gift to the community.
So many uni-que sculptures, I guess that's the point!
Everyone jump on the peace train!
"Goal- to bring humans and nature together"
