The Bogalusa Blues and Heritage Festival received an anonymous $1,000 donation, and the benefactor said she doesn’t want the free tickets or other items that come with a BBHF Foundation Club membership at that level, said Executive Chair Malinda White.

The donor plans to attend the festival with friends on Sept. 29 and to buy a ticket at the gate, she said.

The generous woman, who wishes to remain anonymous, made the donation “in honor and in memory of Bogalusa’s past and present music and band directors who have inspired and fostered the love of music in the lives of many children throughout the years,” said White.

“She wants to see if others would be stimulated to contribute to this honor,” she said.

Any donation to the festival that was created to celebrate music and the local musical heritage is appreciated, said White.

Even though this will be its inaugural year, a lineup that consists of top regional musicians including Blues Entertainer of the Year Tab Benoit, and a program that features a tribute to Bogalusa native Professor Longhair, which will include New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival founder Quint Davis, Fess’s family and others, has provided instant credibility and a widespread buzz.

The BBHF steering committee reports that it has been getting inquiries, sponsorships and requests for participation from across the region, and the contacts have only been increasing as the fest draws near.

Time is running out for anybody who wants to be a charter member of the BBHF Foundation Club and to receive VIP treatment at the festival. Memberships will be accepted through Aug. 31, and VIP packages will be mailed on Sept. 1.

Sponsorships are available at various levels from $500 to $10,000.

There are also a few alternative sponsorship opportunities available for businesses or individuals who want to become involved with the BBHF, but aren’t able to swing a Foundation Club membership.

Check out bogalusablues.com or call White at 732-4801 for additional information.