March 18, 2024

Project AWAKE appreciates community support

On behalf of the Project AWAKE board, I want to thank everyone who contributed to the outstanding success of our Annual Fundraiser Plant Sale.

Volunteers ranged from the many “Friends of the Arboretum” who dug up and potted perennials from donated gardens to those who filled the many tables with contributed plants and assisted buyers in their purchases. It takes almost a whole village of folks, a whole lot of work and a week of preparation for which we appreciate each and every effort.

The generous merchants who contributed flats of annuals were Cox’s Greenhouse, Earl May, Hy-Vee and Theisen’s. They do this every year, and without them, we could not include annuals, a big part of almost everyone’s front yard in Newton. Also, Fareway provided strawberry boxes which facilitated easy shopping and carry-out. A big thanks to all of them.

As community donations are our only source of income to maintain the gardens, we are totally reliant on residents of Newton and the surrounding area; it’s their sweat equity and local dollars that are needed to provide free public access to this wonderful facility. We invite anyone who wishes to participate to contact the Project Awake Board at 641-791-3021.

Come make your mark on your community. We enthusiastically encourage anyone who likes playing in the dirt to come join us. If you missed this fun time, there are many more chances this year. We are working on several exciting projects, so like us on Facebook.

Sveta Miller

Newton