Yesterday we hosted a group of energetic little learners through a program in Citrus County's Parks and Recreation. Of course, it was MANATEE-centric! Volunteers and Friends' members Steve and Bonnie (both retired educators) shared a story about "Sam, the Sea Cow," took the kids and their parents on a tour of the visitor center and then finished with a craft project helping these little ones in making their own manatee hand puppets! (fb)

Need a patriotic youth tee for Memorial Day (or any day!) AND a way to support the Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge? This cute tee is $25.99 at our Friends Non-Profit store located at 1502 SE Kings Bay Dr, Crystal River. If you are a member of Friends of the CRNWR, you get a 10% discount on everything in the store. For membership info, call 352-634-0020 or visit our website at friendsofcrystalriver.org. We can also take your membership right at the store. (fb)