ENVIRONMENT / Notes about your surroundings

Marine Players--Claud and Jimmie Sympson will be given a lifetime achievement award by the Orange County Marine Institute at a gala June 27. The “Great Gatsby by the Sea” event begins at 6:30 p.m. and features Lindy Hop demonstrations, gaming tables, dinner and music at the institute, 24200 Dana Point Harbor Drive, Dana Point. Tickets are $100. Proceeds will go toward the purchase and installation of two new diesel engines for the marine institute’s R/V Sea Explorer research vessel. The 70-foot Explorer serves as a floating laboratory, with five teaching areas. The Sympsons will match the amount raised, up to $25,000. Reservations and information: (949) 496-2274, Ext. 411.

Mixing It Up--Home composting is the subject of a class Saturday at the Fullerton Arboretum. Earthworm culture and a visit to the arboretum compost area are included. It begins at 10 a.m. and is free to residents of Anaheim, Buena Park, Fullerton, La Habra and Orange and Friends of the Fullerton Arboretum. Cost is $7 for others. No reservations are required. The arboretum is at 1900 Associated Road. Information: (714) 278-3404.

Junior Achievement--Learning to follow a map, use a compass and identify plants and animals on the trail are all part of the Oak Canyon Nature Center’s junior naturalist program for youngsters 8 to 12. The sessions are 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. June 15-19 at the nature center, 6700 E. Walnut Canyon Road, Anaheim Hills. At the end of the week, the newly minted junior naturalists will lead tours for parents, family and friends, demonstrating their skills. Cost is $48, which includes a materials fee and backpack kit. Information: (714) 998-8380.

Sand Scrubbers--Help clean up the beach at Corona del Mar State Beach on Saturday beginning at 9 a.m. The event is sponsored by Allergan Inc. Mention Allergan’s Adopt-A-Beach for free parking. The beach is at the corner of Ocean Boulevard and Marguerite Avenue.