The Second Annual Inspirational Messages of Peace Celebration will take place at the University Park World Peace Rose Garden (UPWPRG) on Thursday, April 27, 12:30 p.m. at University Park in Stockton. Bring your friends and family to hear the inspiring poetic words spoken by a dozen students representing Pitman Charter School, The Children’s Home of Stockton, Hamilton Elementary School and Health Careers Academy High School. A total of 793 students developed original peace messages for this year’s contest. The unveiling of these winning messages on engraved plaques throughout the garden will take place. In addition to the readings from the students who won the Inspirational Messages of Peace contest, UPWPRG founder/creators Sandy and Kevin Huber will welcome guests, an original poem will be presented by Poet Laureate Tama Bisbane, San Joaquin District Attorney Tori Salazar will deliver the keynote address, and the Lincoln High Jazz Band will provide live music. The popular rose petal toss concludes the event.
Continuing to work closely with the Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historic Site and International World Peace Rose Garden in Atlanta Georgia, this year a Message of Peace poem from the International contest will be read and a plaque will be placed in the Stockton garden.
Following the event, trolley rides throughout University Park, as well as an organized walk through the Discovery Trail will be offered. The event is free and open to the public.
The University Park World Peace Rose Garden is the newest in a series of nine International World Peace Rose Gardens. These gardens have become magnets for positive community interactions. As one of these honored rose gardens around the world, the local site serves as a place of beauty and peace. The University Park World Peace Rose Garden features a variety of roses specifically chosen for the Central Valley region.