By: Mark Bowell, FOGP Executive Director
For nearly 20 years the Friends of Garfield Park(FOGP) has supported Indy Parks programs and initiatives in our historic park. This summer will be no exception as more programs and activities will be presented and assisted by the FOGP than in any previous year. “Our goal is to look for appropriate connections to the park,” stated FOGP President Lynda Burrello. “We want to strengthen participation and communication at every level we can to assist Indy Parks and their mission,” she added.
This summer a wide variety of activity will be taking place with the FOGP’s support. Certainly the largest effort will be the $400,000 Restore the Mac project. Through generous contributions from P.E. MacAllister, the Efroymson family, the Bowen Foundation, Hagerman Construction, Indy Parks and numerous other contributors the MacAllister Center will receive a major facelift. Look for a special rededication event on July 12th featuring the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra.
Other FOGP supported initiatives will include new I 65 directional signs to the park, a restoration to the Conservatory’s Children’s Garden and a fourth year of financial support for the maintenance of the Fountains in the Sunken Gardens.
Further, the FOGP is pleased to support 13 boys and girls teams totaling over 150 youth in the RBI/Playball league this spring and summer. Also, we have made a major contribution to support the National Junior Tennis League summer program and assist with allowing disadvantaged neighborhood youth to participate. Additionally, the FOGP has sponsored the Arts Center’s Plen Air Painting Competition. Through July this program will bring together some of our neighborhoods and communities top artists to vie for a $1000 grand prize. Contact the GPAC for more details.
The FOGP will be hosting a Garfield Alive historic walk in conjunction with Indy Parks July 8th Pack the Parks event at 10am at the Sunken Gardens. Our final walk will be on September 3rd at 4pm. This will be conducted before our major summer finale… An Evening at the Mac. This concert will feature 7 Bridges: The Ultimate Eagles Experience followed by our annual free fireworks show at the MacAllister Center Amphitheater.
The FOGP looks forward to a sensational summer and our support touches only a fraction of the programs and events the Indy Parks team has in store. For more details on getting involved visit garfieldparkindy.org or contact Mark Bowell @ 317-840-8111