Planet Delaware unveils speaker lineup for Sept. 14 outdoor festival

Rehoboth Beach VegFest, joining the Planet Series as Planet Delaware this year, recently announced its lineup of speakers for the outdoor festival to take place Saturday, Sept. 14, at Epworth United Methodist Church north of Rehoboth Beach. This year’s roster features influential voices who have made significant contributions in the areas of health, wellness, animal ethics and culinary arts, promising an enriching experience for attendees.

Chuck Carroll, host of the Physicians Committee's "The Exam Room" podcast, will headline this year’s speaker roster. His inspiring journey of shedding 275 pounds has captivated audiences globally, showcasing the transformative power of lifestyle changes and plant-based nutrition. His role as a passionate advocate for health and wellness, coupled with his engaging personality, promises to energize and motivate attendees. Through his work, Carroll aims to empower others with the belief that achieving optimal health is within everyone’s reach. "I am thrilled to join Planet Delaware and share my story of transformation and hope," said Carroll. "Together, we'll raise health IQs so that all who attend can become the vibrant person others aspire to be and wonder ‘What’s their secret?’ This event will unlock it.”

Aysha Akhtar, MD, MPH, co-founder and CEO of the Center for Contemporary Sciences, is a double board-certified neurologist, preventive medicine specialist and distinguished leader in animal ethics. Akhtar’s research demonstrates the critical link between animal welfare and public health, and reveals how to avoid future pandemics. "By reducing reliance on animal experimentation in medical research and emphasizing the importance of human-relevant testing methods, we enhance both human health outcomes and animal welfare," said event organizer and VegRehoboth founder Tara Sheldon. Akhtar is also the featured artist for the Saturday night art reception at Gallery 50.  

Suzanne Thurman is the founder and director of the Marine Education, Research & Rehabilitation Institute Inc. Founded in 2000, MERR provides rescue and response services for stranded marine mammals and sea turtles in Delaware. Now in its 22nd year, the award-winning nonprofit organization has responded to nearly 4,000 animals and served more than 200,000 people with its education programs. Thurman, who has spent most of her life in coastal Delaware, became involved with environmental conservation at a young age to protect marine creatures and the ecosystem. At Planet Delaware, she will discuss what impacts sea animal welfare and share her experiences rescuing them.

Chef Hari Cameron, The Chef’s Table culinary director, will add a flavorful touch to the event, showcasing his kitchen prowess with a special "no waste, plant-based" cooking demonstration. Cameron, a celebrated consultant and innovator in culinary arts, has been a fixture at Rehoboth Beach VegFest since its inception in 2013. "I am honored to return to Rehoboth Beach VegFest and share my passion for sustainable cooking with the community," said Cameron. "Together, we'll explore new ways to enjoy delicious food while minimizing waste and promoting environmental stewardship."

Blue Zone Delaware - A Blue Zone is a community where people live longer, happier, healthier lives and the subject of a Netflix documentary hosted by Dan Buettner. Local leaders will share their dream for a Blue Zone to exist in Sussex County and relate the progress made thus far. They will also detail the next steps to make it a reality.   

Planet Delaware, set for Friday to Sunday, Sept. 13 to 15, is a three-day event that celebrates the joys and benefits of plant-based living through film, engaging speakers, cooking demonstrations, exhibitors and delicious vegan cuisine. It attracts health enthusiasts, environmental advocates and people interested in exploring the benefits of a plant-based lifestyle. Events include a a Friday film screening at UUSD, the Saturday festival at Epworth UMC and an art reception at Gallery 50, and Sunday brunch at Nectar in Lewes.

For more information about Planet Delaware, including event schedule, go to VegRehoboth.org and planetseriesevents.org/delaware.