Residents learn ways to conserve at the Florida-Friendly Family Festival

The Florida-Friendly Family Festival held March 6th at the Manatee County Fairgrounds brought 515 people together to share environmental themes and conservation methods. The Eco-Workshops were attended by 158 attendees thirsty for ideas. Topics included worm composting, conservation at home, making bio-fuel, the importance of bees and the water cycle. The Earthlings, musician with an environmental message, provided musical suggestions for conservation with their instruments made from recycled items. The Manatee County Utilities Department provided food which was grilled to perfection by the Palmetto Kiwanis Club volunteers. A local 4-H club served drinks for $.50 in re-useable cups with refills offered for $.25 to encourage reuse. Compost bins were manned with volunteers to educate on compostable trash vs. non-compostable trash. Food service items were made of 100% paper and able to be composted.

Florida-Friendly Family Festival

 

Come join us March 6th, 9 am - 3 pm at the Manatee County Fairgrounds for the Florida-Friendly Family Festival. The Festival will feature a variety of fun activities, eco-workshops and entertainment that appeals to children of all ages.  The Festival will offer a wide array of interactive demonstrations, ideas, workshops and exhibits to highlight our environment and show ways that families can conserve in and around their homes.  Admission is free.  Food will be provided, first come, first serve.  Local youth will be performing.  The Manatee County Utilities Department will be hosting a shower head exchange.  Bring your old shower head to be exchanged for a new water conserving model. 

Performances by the Earthlings (conservation themed entertainment), Palmetto High School Jazz Band and ROTC.  Eco-workshop topics include worm composting, life as a drip, bio-fuel blast and home conservation.  Local businesses, not for profit organizations and Manatee County Government will host exhibits.  Mote Marine's touch tank, a hybrid school bus and a 1930's fire truck will be on display.