The owner of an ice cream truck wanted to say thanks to the staff and volunteers at the International Peace Garden south of Boissevain by giving them some free treats.

Lulabelle’s Ice Cream brought iconic and locally made Pride Dairy products to the International Peace Garden on Thursday, May 25.

Lulabelle’s owner Donnet Sivertson teamed up with businessman Guy Abernathey to sponsor the visit as a thank you to Peace Garden staff as the big June planting push nears.

Lulabelle’s is celebrating 5 years at Lake Metigoshe and excited to support the Peace Garden.

“The Peace Garden is a special place for me and my family and we know how important the dedicated staff are,” said Abernathey, a lifetime member. “With the Conservatory reopening later this year, there is a lot of excitement and need for volunteers. I hope others will join in Volunteer Planting Day on June 17.”

The Peace Garden is beginning its 91st season as one of the most unique institutions in the world. A registered non-profit in Canada and the United States, the Garden strives to provide peaceful experiences centered around nature.

“Local support is just one part of what makes the Garden so special,” said CEO Tim Chapman. “Our staff works extremely hard to ensure a beautiful summer experience and it’s an honor to be recognized and celebrated by local businesses and supporters.”

“It’s exciting to have our new play area open as the Garden continues to build a full-family experience. Each step in our development will hopefully inspire more volunteers and those with a passion for advocating for peace and cooperation.”

Brayden Dyck works in the administrative office at the Peace Garden, and he said about 20 people passed by the ice cream truck to get a free treat.

Dyck points out the importance of staff and volunteers to get the Garden in shape every spring and to keep the International Peace Garden looking great throughout the season.

“On Thursday, May 25th the Peace Garden welcomed the gift and enjoyed the classic nostalgic ice cream truck during the warm afternoon. The men and women of the park met down at the newly built playground for the sweet snack. The busy people working took some time after the long day of mowing, moving, and upkeep to enjoy the frozen donation.”

Staff are busy preparing the IPG for the thousands of flowers that will be going into the flower beds over the next few weeks.

“The conditions here are beautiful and during these warm and sunny days it’s easy to enjoy the IPG’s atmosphere and what it has to offer,” said Brayden Dyck.