It is a pleasure to report on the progress at the Senior Center Community Gardens. We are delighted to see each step planned and now developing. Some of us have walked around the project, others of us have watched from the windows and from our cars. We wanted our grounds around the building landscaped and beautiful for family reunions and other events, as well as for us. For over a year, ideas flowed and we learned much about our Senior Center and applying for grants. Ann McElroy, President of the San Saba Garden Club, researched and outlined what was involved in receiving a grant, and she began the application process with the help of Linda Mixon and others. She met with six representatives from the Senior Center one afternoon and we discussed plants for drought areas, a pergola, and community garden plots for vegetables and flowers. All the ideas were presented to the LCRA and after about a year, we received a grant in December, 2011. After much planning, a groundbreaking ceremony was held in April, 2012, and work began as the weather permitted. Our new director at the Senior Center, Jennifer Saiz has embraced the project, attending meetings with the city and assisting volunteers and workers. Her assistant, Shannon Hampu helps the Seniors to know what is happening through each week. The following is some of the projects that you can see accomplished at the Center. A rain barrel system has been installed and collects water from a gutter system off the roof of the building. Pipes were placed underground leading to faucets to be able to water the different areas. Ron Pollard volunteered to build the pergola in the middle of the garden to provide shade for folks enjoying the gardens. Many men from the city assisted Ron at different times in the building process, then he sanded and stained the structure. Farrel Whitley and his crews came in next and added a rock floor and sidewalks. The Master Gardeners planned a keyhole garden for help with our lunch. Then one afternoon about 50 men and women gathered to build the keyhole frame. Compost, fertilizer, and water are added thru this center section. Master Gardeners take turns watering and caring for this garden every week. Six raised flower beds were alsohelp with our lunch. Then one afternoon about 50 men and women gathered to build the keyhole frame. Compost, fertilizer, and water are added thru this center section. Master Gardeners take turns watering and caring for this garden every week. Six raised flower beds were alsoconstucted and have been located near the six faucets for easy watering. These raised beds are available for groups or individuals to plant and enjoy. Vegetables may be shared with the Senior Center, if so desired. Information about how to receive one of these beds to care for and maintain, please contact the Keep San Saba Beautiful committee. Large rocks have been placed around these raised beds to create interest. Several more areas are in the planning stages. Buddy Bishop has volunteered to submit landscaping plans for the plantings around the entire building. We hope that you will come and see the beautiful garden area being created before our eyes!