[drshame]

Big Cypress Press Release
3rd Annual Swamp Heritage Festival
at Big Cypress

Join us on December 7, 2013, from 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m., at the Big Cypress Swamp Welcome Center as we celebrate the history and culture of South Florida for the third annual Swamp Heritage Festival. The welcome center is located at 33000 Tamiami Trail East, Ochopee, FL 34141, three miles east of State Road 29 on U. S. 41, the Tamiami Trail.

This FREE family-friendly event shines a spotlight upon the history of this rugged, yet beautiful environment through a variety of storytellers, musicians, local experts, authors, artists and residents that will share their love of the swamp through programs, activities, thought-provoking presentations, food and music.

"Today, so many people in South Florida focus on the beach. All too often we forget that it was the resources of the swamp that really attracted people to the area, and still draws many to explore and recreate in the depths of this wild place." stated Jill Wilson, a park ranger at Big Cypress National Preserve responsible for coordinating the festival.
The festival will highlight the inhabitants of early south Florida, whose rugged strength and pioneering spirit contributed to the shaping of today's unique and diverse culture. Everyone can discover what daily life was like in such a remote, and at times, inhospitable place. These unique chapters in American history add to the rich and colorful tableau that comprises our shared past and present.
"The festival provides a great opportunity for contemporary cultures with deep connections to the swamp to come together and share memories of the past and hopes for the future of the Big Cypress." said Bob DeGross, spokesperson, Big Cypress National Preserve.

Check out our website for more details on the variety of activities and presentations for the day go to - http://www.nps.gov/b...agefestival.htm

This year the Swamp Heritage Festival kicks-off the 40th anniversary of the Big Cypress National Preserve. On October 11, 1974 Congress established Big Cypress as America's first National Preserve. The Preserve was created through a grassroots effort by many to ensure that the Big Cypress Swamp would be protected and enjoyed for generations.

Bob DeGross
Big Cypress National Preserve
Chief of Interpretation and Public Affairs

33100 Tamiami Trail East
Ochopee, FL 34141
239-695-1107 office; 239-293-3643 cell


http://www.nps.gov/b...agefestival.htm

[MrSig]

Wow they picked a bad day for this. This is the same day as the City of Hollywood Candy Cane Parade.