Rhythm and Rib Fest

Last weekend, thousands of hungry rib lovers poured onto the Manatee Fairgrounds for the 3rd annual Rhythm and Rib Fest. Tickets were 10 dollars at the door, or 5 dollars for a pre-sale ticket, that is, if you were lucky enough to get one before they sold out. The 3 day event featured endless entertainment, including an array of unique vendors, thrill shows, musical performances and a 2 day car extravaganza. But the real highlight of the weekend was the announcement for the winner of this years “Greatest Ribs in America”.

Still the most impressive part of the event was the money it raised. All of the proceeds went towards the UnitedCommunity Center, located on 13th Avenue in Bradenton. Volunteer coordinator for the center, Dreena Green, felt satisfied with the turn out, remarking that “It keeps getting better every year”. Green was just one of the many individuals devoted to making the Rhythm and Rib Fest a success. Many volunteers showed up, including a few ManaTEENs, to help at the event. They also came, as they admitted “to have some fun”.As the fest continues its annual tradition next year, Dreena hopes, as I do, that ManaTEENs will take the opportunity to get more involved in this fun and beneficial event

By Sarah Bowermaster

Furry Friends

Adorable dogs of all sizes circled the ring at Ellenton’s annual Mutt Strut event to raise both money and awareness for animal welfare. ManaTEENS attended the event to offer refreshments and information about our club, along with the Humane Society, Animal Health Services, and Animal Network. Volunteers even helped with the blessing of a future Seeing Eye dog.

Vicki Shannon from Animal Network greatly appreciated the event and the effort of the volunteers. “It’s a really nice thing to do for animals,” she said. Shannon also does nice things for animals, such as rescuing feral cats and providing them with shelter and shots for rabies. Both Shannon and ManaTEENS agree with “saving what needs saving,” which, according to Shannon, includes people in financial turmoil to abandoned animals.

By Erica Earl