Honeywood (Dr. A. J. Porter) Heritage Nursery has announced its first annual cash lotto.
"The board of directors is excited to host a lotto offering $125,000 in cash prizes," said chairperson David Moe.
On offer is $10,000 for the Aug. 10 early bird draw. Tickets must be purchased by midnight Aug. 8 to be eligible for the early bird draw. The grand prize and subsidiary draws will be made on Sept. 14 following a three-day radio-thon with CJWW. Grand prize draw of $100,000 will be made at 1 p.m. as well as ten $1,000 and ten $500 cash draws.
"Only 2,500 tickets will be sold with ticket prices at $100 each," commented Honeywood Nursery manager Judy Harley.
Ttickets can be purchased at Honeywood Nursery, Parkside General Store, from the directors and by calling the 1-855-947-3425 toll free.
The organization will have two live radio broadcast sessions from the Parkside Heritage Centre in Parkside. One session will be on Aug. 7 and 8 prior to the early bird draw and again Sept. 10 through 12.
"The general public is welcome to stop by the centre during the live broadcasts to meet one of the CJWW radio announcers, enjoy some refreshments and purchase a ticket," added Harley.
Honeywood celebrates the rich horticultural heritage of the area and is a testament to the commitment, love and dedication that Dr Porter displayed with the cultivation and hybridization of lilies for which he was known worldwide and a quest to develop hardy fruit varieties for the Canadian prairies.
The funds raised through this lottery will assist with the major upgrades and renovations of the heritage site as well as provide opportunity to maintain the aging equipment.
Some of the major projects include the installation of windows and the refurbishing of the original Porter cabin. Yard and garden maintenance is essential to ensure the grounds are kept in superior condition for public viewing.
"It all comes down to preserving the living legacy of Bert Porter," says Vivian Nemish, promotional co-ordinator for Honeywood Heritage Nursery.
"This site is an integral part of the history of horticulture in Saskatchewan. It is one of the few original nurseries that remain in Saskatchewan and should serve as a reminder to our generation and future generations that the fruit we enjoy in our yards and gardens did not just happen, but rather developed from years of testing and research."
Designated as a municipal heritage site in 2001 and provincial heritage site in 2007, Honeywood Heritage Nursery is not only considered a destination of preference for weddings but also as an educational tool for horticulturalists, gardeners, landscapers and students of all ages. More information can be obtained by calling Vivian 306-497-2994 or Judy at 306-747-3307.
