Sweetwater Organic Community Farm's annual event Saturday is fun for the whole family and raises cash to help operate the nonprofit organization.
By JACKIE RIPLEY
Published May 16, 2003
TOWN 'N COUNTRY - If you're in the mood for a little family fun, food and fiesta, check out Sweetwater Organic Community Farm's 12th annual Pesto Festo on Saturday night. "The kids always have a blast," said Rick Martinez, owner of the farm. "Last year we had about 200 people and raised about $4,000."
Proceeds go back into operation costs for the farm, Martinez said.
The evening starts with dinner at 6 p.m. and runs until everybody goes home, which could be awhile since Shana Banana will entertain during and after dinner, as well as during a silent auction.
Shana Banana is Florida singer and songwriter Shana Smith, who performs children's music as well as acoustic folk music.
The meal consists of pesto - primarily basil, olive oil and garlic - served over pasta, salad, dessert, bread, juice and water. People who want wine, beer or other beverages can bring their own, Martinez said.
Sweetwater, 6942 W Comanche Ave., is a nonprofit organization of about 100 members with Community Supported Agriculture membership. It operates on 6 acres of suburban property along Sweetwater Creek in Hillsborough County.
"It's just a lot of fun, and we'll have a whole table of silent auction items," Martinez said. "Quite a few people donate certificates for massage therapy and acupuncture, and we have a dentist who does beautiful hand-crafted pottery.
Tickets are $15 in advance, $17 at the door. Children younger than 6 are admitted free; tickets for children 7-12 cost $4.
