From Wonder Blind to Wonder Struck at the ELC

The Roseate Spoonbill -- Like the Flamingo, the pink color of their feathers is caused by consuming shrimp. They can be seen by the dozens on Pelican Island from the ELC pontoon eco-tour.

Years of living in Vero Beach, hearing the rave reviews, seeing the signs — and I'd never set foot in the Environmental Learning Center.

When I finally caught up with Heidi Leone Royals, The ELC's Director of Philanthropy, for a tour of their 64-acre lagoon island, followed by a two-and-a-half hour eco pontoon tour with guide Chris Brenner, the only mystery left was why it took me so long. Yet another example of the "wonder blindness" we so frequently write about in Vero Minute.

Picture 2,000 gallons of aquariums, touch tanks, boardwalk trails through mangrove swamp, and kids putting down their screens to play in the dirt while their parents sip coffee overlooking the lagoon. Daily pontoon tours navigate the surrounding waterways where dolphins surface alongside your boat and roseate spoonbills wade on the lagoon's many islands, including Pelican Island, America's first national wildlife refuge founded by Teddy Roosevelt.

Kayak and paddleboard rentals allow you chart your own course through the ELC's many mangrove tunnels -- a perfect change of pace from yet another afternoon scrolling social media or binge-watching another series. Additionally, the ELC maintains a steady calendar of serious cultural programming.

Part of that programming centers on rotating art exhibitions across their Tidal and Lagoon galleries. They've featured Cuban artists, Sebastian River Art Club members, and currently showcase two compelling exhibitions: Derek Gores, whose recycled magazine collages fool the eye from afar, then reward close inspection with hidden lyrics and patterns, and "Wild and Beautiful" by Cheri and Mark Schumann, longtime Vero Beach residents now based in Santa Fe who have traveled from Alaska to Africa capturing wildlife in natural settings.

Gores' client roster includes Prada and the NFL, while the Schumann's offer 30 color and black-and-white photographs with proceeds benefiting the ELC.

Both artists will be featured for a January 9th artist meet-and-greet (4-6 PM, open to the public) featuring live harp and classical guitar performances.

Artwork by Derek Gores

Wildlife photography by Cheri and Mark Schumann

Next up in January is Lagoonapalooza on the 24th—a free nature and music festival that drew over 2,000 people last year with food trucks, pontoon tours, multiple stages, environmental activities for kids, and full campus access. This annual event embodies the ELC's mission to educate, inspire and empower through celebration and community rather than dry lectures.

March brings their signature event and annual gala, Mangroves, Moonlight & Milan, featuring Italian theming, catering by Elizabeth Kennedy, with tickets ranging from $500 to $25,000. Beyond fundraising, it connects supporters directly with the lagoon environment they are stewards of and the impact of the ELC's programming on a thriving lagoon ecosystem. Tickets sell out fast, so make sure you secure yours here.

Executive Director Barbara Schlitt Ford, Board Chair Rich Brennan, and Jane Smalley

At $40 annually for individual memberships ($60 for families), supporting the ELC costs less than dinner out, offering you the perfect pass to experience the best in local outdoor outings while supporting a crucial mission in the process.

To learn more, visit www.discoverelc.org or call (772) 589 5050

Mangroves, Moonlight and Milan 2025

Mangrove Night Lights 2025 -- The Environmental Learning Center's holiday light show