MANATEE COUNTY, FL (February 4, 2025) – The Manatee Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) honored the county’s storied history with two special proclamations at their meeting on today.
Florida Cracker Trail Ride Week
Designated for February 15-22, "Florida Cracker Trail Ride Week" celebrates the Florida Cracker Trail Association’s annual cross-state ride, which reenacts the historic return trip from Bradenton to Fort Pierce. The event commemorates the dedication of the Florida Cracker Trail and honors the Cracker Cowmen and their legacy. The trail ride spans 120 miles across the state, with riders covering 20 to 25 miles daily.
District 1 Commissioner Carol Ann Felts presented the proclamation, highlighting how the ride has become a cherished generational tradition for nearly four decades—honoring the county’s storied past while ensuring its legacy continues.
“This is part of what epitomizes everything that’s the best about Manatee County,” Commissioner Felts said.
Forty-Third Annual Cortez Commercial Fishing Festival Days
On February 15-16, the BOCC proclaimed the “Forty-Third Annual Cortez Commercial Fishing Festival Days,” which honors the community’s fishing heritage while supporting the Florida Institute for Saltwater Heritage (FISH). This nonprofit grassroots organization, founded in 1991, works to preserve Cortez, Florida’s commercial fishing industry and traditional maritime cultures.
The proclamation was presented by District 3 Commissioner Tal Siddique, who expressed pride in representing the Cortez Fishing Village.
“No matter how many hurricanes come our way, it’s important to celebrate and recognize this community’s unwavering resilience in preserving a working waterfront,” said Commissioner Siddique.
In addition, the BOCC proclaimed January 18 through February 15 as "Gulf Coast Games for Life Month," celebrating the multi-event program for amateur athletes ages 50 and over. The games feature 16 events held in Manatee County, Sarasota and North Port, including archery, rowing, golf, track and field and pickleball, among others. The proclamation was presented by District 5 Commissioner Dr. Bob McCann.