The Friends of Magnolia Springs State Park (MSSP) met Oct. 18 and covered a wide range of items, including a report on the Sept. 26 Free State Parks Day with its good turnout in spite of rather nasty weather. Work is continuing on clearing of the area around the Fort Lawton site by the Sons of Confederate Veterans and improvements are being made in Group Shelter #1. Work is also being done on the trails.

A discussion regarding connecting the historical element of Magnolia Springs to other Civil War sites in the state led to contacting the Georgia Civil War Commission to determine their interest in the site. The Commission's chairman has replied that they are interested.

There are two big events coming up. On Nov. 14, at 9 a.m., the park will be the site of the 12th Annual Cross Country 4.8 mile run after which the U.S. military will be honored by a special ceremony at 10:20 a.m. All active and retired members of the Armed Forces, running or not, are invited to take part.

On Dec. 5, the park will host its annual Heritage Day.

The next meeting of the Friends of MSSP is scheduled for 6 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 12, at shelter #2. Members of Millen Milers and More will also be present and all will enjoy a spaghetti supper as well as the business meeting.