The Friends of Hodges Gardens held a very well-received azalea sale on Aug. 21 which will provide needed funds to one of Sabine Parish’s oldest attractions during a time of state budget restraints.
A lot of early, very serious buyers turned out for the seemingly endless varieties and sizes of azaleas on hand, with a steady flow still showing up when the weather warmed, according to charter member Mary Brocato. She also stated that by 9 a.m., the Friends had acquired more than $1,000 to be put toward the betterment of the park.
“Every bit of the proceeds of the sale goes toward the betterment of Hodges Garden,” said member John Byrd. “What isn’t sold will be planted throughout the gardens.”
The group itself was formed in late 2008, shortly after the gardens were re-opened to the public for the first time in over two years. Their work was seen immediately through the volunteer work and sponsoring programs such as PALS, which has been a favorite of local school children for several years now.
Currently, the Friends have their eyes set on next year’s March Spring Fling, which promises to bring about plenty of family-friendly activities, much like previous years.
“We’re also working toward a big July 4 celebration in 2011,” said Brocato. “We want to feature plenty of patriotic music, bands and a huge fireworks display.”
Also on the agenda is acquiring money for the restoration of the Willow Park fountain, as its color changing waters were always a favorite of park visitors.
Already they have hiking trails opened, such as the ever-popular wild azalea lookout, as well as multi-use trails for bikes and horses. All terrain vehicles are currently not allowed. A number of primitive campgrounds are nearing completion, but all trails are currently day use only.
Of course, programs like those require plenty of money, which is why things like the azalea sale are so important.
The Friends are currently seeking more members, or those like themselves who have fond memories of Hodges Gardens and wish to help make those memories for future generations.
“We want to encourage people to join and volunteer,” Brocato said. “It isn’t necessary to be out weeding gardens (or) planting flowers, you can work where your talents are.”
Membership runs the calendar year from January through December, with several different membership levels available. A free park pass is even given on some levels. In addition, members receive a quarterly newsletter printed through a partnership with Northwestern State University.
The friends also encourage local citizens to get out and view the park, make new memories, and remember old ones. Without support, the work of the friends is in vain, and Hodges Gardens could meet the same fate as other local parks such as Los Adaes and Ft. Jesup.
Those wishing to join or wanting more information regarding the Friends of Hodges Gardens are encouraged to do so by contacting John Byrd at 318-586-3523
|
|
|
The Friends of Hodges Gardens held a very well-received azalea sale on Aug. 21 which will provide needed funds to one of Sabine Parish’s oldest attractions during a time of state budget restraints.
A lot of early, very serious buyers turned out for the seemingly endless varieties and sizes of azaleas on hand, with a steady flow still showing up when the weather warmed, according to charter member Mary Brocato. She also stated that by 9 a.m., the Friends had acquired more than $1,000 to be put toward the betterment of the park.
“Every bit of the proceeds of the sale goes toward the betterment of Hodges Garden,” said member John Byrd. “What isn’t sold will be planted throughout the gardens.”
The group itself was formed in late 2008, shortly after the gardens were re-opened to the public for the first time in over two years. Their work was seen immediately through the volunteer work and sponsoring programs such as PALS, which has been a favorite of local school children for several years now.
Currently, the Friends have their eyes set on next year’s March Spring Fling, which promises to bring about plenty of family-friendly activities, much like previous years.
“We’re also working toward a big July 4 celebration in 2011,” said Brocato. “We want to feature plenty of patriotic music, bands and a huge fireworks display.”
Also on the agenda is acquiring money for the restoration of the Willow Park fountain, as its color changing waters were always a favorite of park visitors.
Already they have hiking trails opened, such as the ever-popular wild azalea lookout, as well as multi-use trails for bikes and horses. All terrain vehicles are currently not allowed. A number of primitive campgrounds are nearing completion, but all trails are currently day use only.
Of course, programs like those require plenty of money, which is why things like the azalea sale are so important.
The Friends are currently seeking more members, or those like themselves who have fond memories of Hodges Gardens and wish to help make those memories for future generations.
“We want to encourage people to join and volunteer,” Brocato said. “It isn’t necessary to be out weeding gardens (or) planting flowers, you can work where your talents are.”
Membership runs the calendar year from January through December, with several different membership levels available. A free park pass is even given on some levels. In addition, members receive a quarterly newsletter printed through a partnership with Northwestern State University.
The friends also encourage local citizens to get out and view the park, make new memories, and remember old ones. Without support, the work of the friends is in vain, and Hodges Gardens could meet the same fate as other local parks such as Los Adaes and Ft. Jesup.
Those wishing to join or wanting more information regarding the Friends of Hodges Gardens are encouraged to do so by contacting John Byrd at 318-586-3523
