Hibiscus Festival Holds First Meeting for 2009 Event

Milt Thomas, Chairman of the annual Hibiscus Festival has announced that the Hibiscus Festival committee will hold its first meeting on Tuesday, October 7 at 4 p.m. at the Heritage Center on 14 th Avenue in Vero Beach. This year's event will be held on April 17 and 18 th in historic downtown Vero Beach.

First presented in 1953, the historic Hibiscus Festival is an annual celebration of Vero Beach history and community spirit. It is attended by thousands of adults, children and families from Vero Beach and surrounding communities. It is also a major fundraiser for three community-oriented, 501-c-3 non-profit organizations that include Main Street Vero Beach, Vero Heritage, Inc (The Heritage Center) and the Indian River County Historical Society.

Committee members arrange a wide range of activities that include the Miss Hibiscus Pageant, 5k Run, pancake breakfast, day long music and entertainment, salute to youth, children's Activities, historic displays, a farmers market and marketplace booths, as well as a food and drink court. An Evening Community Dance Party showcasing food, drink and live entertainment is also held.

The committee is open to new members and those interested in participating for their own personal enjoyment, or to have their business or non-profit organization involved, is encouraged to contact Milt Thomas at 567-2897 or Beverly Paris at 234-4412.

The committee's newest member is Tricia Jenkins, CFRE, a fundraising consultant and owner of Tricia Jenkins & Associates (TJ&A). She helps non-profits raise money by providing them with cost-effective fundraising tools and strategies. Ms. Jenkins is working with a new Festival Sponsorship Opportunity Package offering a wide spectrum of Platinum, Silver, Gold and Bronze sponsorships. Prospective sponsors may contact Ms. Jenkins at 772-801-3410 or email to tricia@fearlessfundraising.com.