Two Earth Day Network affiliated documentaries: Lunch and Potato Heads are being featured as part of the 18th Annual Environmental Film Festival in the Nation’s Capital. The Festival includes over 155 films in all and will take place in 56 venues across the DC area March 16-28, 2010. Both films will be screened at American University’s Wechsler Theater from 7 to 8 pm on Monday, March 22, 2010 as component of the Food & Agriculture Film Series . The event is co-presented by Earth Day Network and the Center for Environmental Film Studies and…admission is FREE!

LUNCH (USA, 2010, 25 min.)
Washington, D.C. Premiere For the first time, the life expectancy of children in America is lower than that of their parents. This short documentary produced by Earth Day Network takes a close look at the nation’s school-food programs through the meals offered by the Baltimore, Md. public schools. The filmmaker not only highlights the links between food and academics and between the current food system and political decisions, but also focuses on initiatives aimed at giving our children healthier lunches in school. Directed by Avis Richards and Israel Bonequi. Produced for Earth Day Network by Birds Nest Productions, Executive Producer, Avis Richards.

POTATO HEADS (USA, 2010, 30 min.)
World Premiere Join filmmaker Larry Engel as he explores the origins and future of the ubiquitous potato in a lively and timely short film. Potato Heads visits with farmers and scientists in the Andes of South America, the homeland of the potato, and the heartland of the United States, where this lowly tuber thrives today. Along the way, Engel takes a close, hard look at the importance of biodiversity and food security in an ever-threatened world. Directed by Larry Engel. Produced by VideoTakes, Inc.

The evening will kick off with an introduction by Chris Palmer, Professor, American University. Following the screening, it will conclude with a panel discussion of exciting speakers including Earth Day Networks’ president, Kathleen Rogers, and Global Advisory Boardmember and Director, Avis Richards, as well as the Director, Larry Engel. Be sure to mark your calendars for March 22nd, and spread the word!

We hope to see you there!

Contributed by Kate Douglas