What a difference a day makes! We had big plans this Spring on the heels of our successful Valentine’s Day dinner. Top-notch dinner/ programs, our annual tree giveaway, open house, tours of the grounds, river cleanup and a fishing event. By the second week of March, all these plans were stalled due to an unprecedented pandemic that blindsided everyone and caused lock downs, cancellations and quarantines.
In addition to cancelling our Izaak Walton events, we have shut down the lodge for the time being. This includes hall rentals. The hall rentals are our main source of income, which has put us in quite a predicament financially. Our 120 acre nature preserve is one of the most diverse in St. Joe County. We have three stocked fishing ponds, and a world class archery range. Water features abound with Juday creek, the St. Joseph river and many natural springs. Hiking trails and species trees are plentiful. Many of you have met Bob and Judi Binder, our new caretakers, who have been doing an exceptional job.
We look forward to getting back on track in our 96th year, but in the meantime are offering suggestions to help us keep afloat during our time of revenue losses. Here’s how you can help:
• Renew your membership
• Purchase gift memberships for neighbors, family, & friends
• Purchase a gift membership for an essential worker to show your appreciation
• Make a tax deductable donation to our local IKES
