Through the Cox Conserves Heroes  program, “our” special hero – a longtime Florida Canyon volunteer and avid gardener – Jesus “Chuy” Armas – won the 2nd prize cash award of $5,000!  Chuy’s award will be donated to the Friends of Balboa Park by Cox Communications.   Chuy, at age 85, continues to serve his community.  Retired from the military and the San Ysidro Health Center, Chuy has created and maintained a garden in Florida Canyon for the last 18 years. By incorporating water already running through the area, Chuy built infrastructure, planted vegetation, and now thoughtfully tends to this tropical urban oasis. Neighbors and families have become huge fans of the garden, donating plants and flowers for Chuy to plant. Not only has the Florida Canyon Community Garden become a favorite of photographers for engagements and family photos, but also the garden has enhanced the City’s walking/hiking paths with an array of diverse flowers and plants for all to enjoy. Chuy has humbly and quietly transformed this area into a neighborhood treasure for families, pets and a host of memories for all those who enjoy his masterpiece.   We’re planning on using the funds to restore native habitat to Florida Canyon through our water conservation and sustainability program.

Program Time 6:15 – 7:15 p.m., Tuesdays – Wednesdays – Thursdays at Spreckels Organ Pavilion.  Come early, relax, bring food if you’d like, and enjoy the outdoors in your park.  For a complete concert listing check the website: www.balboapark.org