May 13, 2015

Offering an innovative way to celebrate the regional work being done to combat climate change and promote sustainability, the Seventh Annual Energy Independence Festival will take place on Sunday, May 17, at the MoGreena complex in Modena.

Waste Oil Recylers, a proponent of the waste-not philosophy that transforms  used cooking oil into biodiesel, created the free, public festival, which has grown in popularity each year. The MoGreena complex, where the company is located, has evolved into an eco-incubator comprised of like-minded businesses and individuals who are committed to reusing, repurposing and recycling.

From glass-blowing demonstrations to beer tastings to children’s activities, the eclectic festival promises something for everyone. This year’s musical entertainment will be provided by Mason Porter,  Beaucoup Blue and Brad Hinton. They are apt to be joined at any time by the myriad musically-inclined employees from the MoGreena companies.

High Street Caffe and Robin Mastrippolito, Confectioner, will offer food and goodies for purchase, and Victory Brewing Company will be providing complimentary beer tastings. In addition, Waste Oil Recyclers will be offering a variety of wines for tasting.

The Stroud Water Research Center, Organic Mechanics, Swing Green, Composting SCC SWA, and Preservation Tree will have informative and interactive displays. In addition, Jason Bowman from Charlotte’s Weld will be selling some of his creative crafts, and gently used CD’s will be available for sale.

Birl Girl Designs will offer face-painting, and Claire Murray and Tom Breglia will lead other children’s activities, which will include a painting/art project for the fifth straight year.

State Rep. Harry Lewis (R-74) is scheduled to address the crowd at 2:30 p.m. Some limited tours of the facility, which includes the MoGreena Garden Project (MGP), which donates produce to the Chester County Food Bank, will be offered.

For more information, visit https://www.facebook.com/events/1434748310156394/. To learn more about Waste Oil Recylers, visit http://www.wasteoilrecyclers.com.

The festival will run from 1 to 6 p.m. at the complex, which is located at 6 Union St., Modena, Pa., 19358.