Featured photo of the week
October 10, 2011
The new "tree house" at the Georgeson Botanical Garden features decorative iron work. The tree house is part of a children's garden funded
by Fairbanks orthodontist Dr. Walter Babula and his wife, Marita."We felt a children's garden would be a lasting gift and the ideal setting would be the Georgeson," Walter says. "That way the garden would benefit many youngsters who visit the garden, not just the children of Fairbanks."
The Babulas envisioned the garden as a mix of whimsy and learning opportunities, focusing on what makes Alaska unique. Entered through a child-sized willow tunnel, the garden includes an Alaska pioneer garden and a stream with a hydroelectric wheel. Fairbanks children planted and nurtured the Siberian pea shrubs that are growing into a complex maze. The treehouse will be used for observing birds and insects; another area will include instruments to measure and record weather data.
The Babulas plan to provide for future enhancements as well as long-term maintenance for the garden.
"Marita and I feel that unconditional giving and having people get a lot of happiness out of what you're giving is very rewarding," Walter says. "We're trying to make this world a little nicer place." advancement and philanthropy. The Babulas' amazing gift will grow for decades.
For more information about giving at UAF contact Development at 474-2619 or UAF-giving@alaska.edu.