Growing community festival nears

Bristow Garden Club recently announced its inaugural Growing Community Festival, opening to the community on March 11 at 10 a.m. at Bristow VFW Post 3656. Numerous speakers from within Bristow and nearby communities have committed to offer presentations on a variety of homesteading, farming, and gardening topics throughout the event.

Presentations may include topics such as plant and food cultivation, foraging, homegrown and foraged food preparation and preservation, farming a variety of animals for milk and eggs, beekeeping, foraging to identify and safely remove toxic plants and fungi, and others. The club maintains a bit of mystery as to its exact presentations for attendees to experience firsthand, noting there will be something for everyone at every level of ability.

In addition to speakers, presentations, and associated activities at the festival, the club wants to meet and connect with the community, building a supportive network for gardeners and farmers interested in self- sustainability.

All tickets for the event must be purchased at the door for $5 each, which includes lunch. Lunch will consist of a sandwich, chips, and a drink. Additionally, attendees may opt to purchase raffle tickets for a GreenStalk vertical planter. Raffle tickets may be purchased at the door and throughout the event. One ticket may be purchased for $5, or six tickets may be purchased for $20. The planter will be raffled at the event. All event entry and raffle tickets must be purchased by cash or check only. Proceeds benefit Bristow Garden Club projects.