Aquidneck Island's second annual Energy Independence Day will be next Sunday, July 11, from 1-4pm by the wind turbine at the John Clarke Center in Middletown, and just like last year, there will be displays of earth-friendly offerings, fun activities for the family, and opportunities to connect with the green community. Admission and parking is free, and there will be a free trolley shuttle from the rotunda at Easton's beach. You can also take the Coyote Shuttle Loop which starts at the Transportation center and makes a loop around hotels and then to Norman Bird Sanctuary, Sweet Berry Farm, Newport Vineyards & the National Golf Club.

Once again, the event will be held near one of the island's three wind turbines; I covered it last year and had big fun. This time, says organizer David Stookey, there will be more than 75 exhibitors — twice as many as last year — and they are expecting over 1,000 attendees.

"While America's Independence Day celebrates the past, Energy Independence Day looks ahead to what will happen," said Stookey, who adds that our state has a record of being ahead of the curve. "This is a Rhode Island tradition; the state signed its own Declaration of Independence on May 4, 1776, two months before the other colonies."

With three wind turbines, thriving local farms, and a deep respect for open space, it really does seem that Aquidneck Island is a role model, and at this event, you'll see many of the folks making it happen. There will be money-saving energy ideas for the household, renewable energy demonstrations, energy-saving and other green products, low-carbon transportation, games and contests, prizes and auctions, and organic and local produce. Check out the list of exhibitors.

And while the topic may be serious, the event focuses on fun, Stookey said. "While those of us involved are very concerned about global warming, peak oil, sea-level rise, oil spills, etc., this is an upbeat event focusing on how families and homeowners can cut their fuel bills and live more sustainably."

We'll be there — hope to see you!

Resources
EnergyIndependenceDayRI.org
Facebook page

Update: New exhibitor totals and transportation options.