HBG Columns Nov-Dec-Jan 2016

VOL. 35, NO.4 • NOVEMBER-DECEMBER-JANUARY 2015-2016

H U N T S V I L L E

B O T A N I C A L

G A R D E N

Galaxy Info page 4 PRESENTING SPONSOR:

New Guest Welcome Center - Groundbreaking Update - page 3

information GENERAL INFORMATION

GARDEN BOARD MEMBERS

WEBSITE: www.hsvbg.org

BOARD OF DIRECTORS Linda Green, Chairman John Allen Cynthia Almodovar MG (Ret.) Joe Bergantz Penny Billings Paul Bogosian Lynn Carden LTG (Ret.) Mark Curran Edna Deener Mike DeMaioribus Kyle Findlay Cindy Gray Mary Griffith David Harbarger Warne Heath Marc Jacobson Terry Lewis Beth Richardson Emily Robertson Chris Robinson Reba Rogers Jan Smith Bill Stender Jay Stowe MG (Ret.) Al Sullivan Kathi Tew

HOURS: April - September: Monday - Saturday, 9 AM - 6 PM Thursday, 9 AM - 8 PM Sunday, 12 - 6 PM October - March: Monday - Saturday, 9 AM - 5 PM Sunday, 12 - 5 PM GARDEN OF EAT’N: 256-830-4447 ext. 224 Hours: Monday-Saturday, 11 AM - 2 PM Menu available at www.hsvbg.org TELEPHONE: Garden Attendant: 256-830-4447 + ext.

Fax: 256-830-5314 Garden Departments: Butterfly Releases/Memorials, ext. 294 Development, ext. 242 Education: 256-837-4344

or 256-837-4104 Facility Rental, ext. 237, 243 Group Tours, ext. 223 Membership, ext. 229 Shoppe at the Garden, ext. 221 Sponsorships, ext. 239 Volunteers, ext. 238 CEO | Paula Steigerwald VP Advancement | Cynthia Potts VP Communications/ Programming Donna Krabill VP Operations | Kathy Gilder Director of Development | Amy Hamilton Director of Education | Soozi Pline Director of Horticulture | Niki Sothers Director of Marketing | Carol Casey Director of Visitor Services | Melissa Riley

Our Garden will achieve world-class recognition by balancing year-round botanical displays, strong educational programs and specialized research. The unique aspect of our Garden will be the blending of traditional botanical garden elements, the aesthetic heritage of our region, the conservation of our natural resources, and our thrust into the future.

Huntsville Botanical Garden

FOUNDATION BOARD John Wynn, Chairman Phylis Baron Bobby Bradley David Lucas Roy Nichols John Purdy Linda Smith Bill Snoddy John Stallworth Middie Thompson Beth Wise

The Garden and the Shoppe at the Garden observe the following holidays:

Thanksgiving Day

(closed all day, normal hours for Galaxy of Lights)

Christmas Eve

(closes at 2 PM, normal hours for Galaxy of Lights)

Christmas Day

(closed all day, normal hours for Galaxy of Lights)

News Year’s Eve

MISSION:

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ADVISORY BOARD Terry Bradford, Chairman Shirley Brown Carole Anne Ellers Mary Grace Evans Kerry Fehrenbach Jeff Gronberg Eric Mills Tony Osani Dr. Ken Rivenbark Dr. Jim Rogers Beth Sippel Carol Tevepaugh

HOLIDAY SCHEDULE

SENIOR STAFF:

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from the CEO

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(closes at 2 PM, normal hours for Galaxy of Lights)

New Year’s Day

(closed all day, normal hours for Galaxy of Lights)

Garden of Eat’n will be closed

December 24 -January 3, reopening January 4 at 11 AM

Galaxy of Lights turns 20 years old!!!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, GALAXY! What is truly amazing is the vision of those early volunteers that made it possible for the Garden to grow. First came a few lighted displays and then it grew into this nearly 2 mile extravaganza that is now a regional tradition for so many families. Their standards of excellence became the basis of how the Garden was to operate for years to come.

We adopted several principles from Galaxy as the Garden staff and others developed additional events and exhibits.

ALWAYS ENGAGE VOLUNTEERS! Without them, there would be no Garden.

It’s the community’s Garden.

DELIVER FRESHNESS AND QUALITY EVERY YEAR New elements, new arrangements, well-executed and checked for performance.

SUPPORT OTHER ORGANIZATIONS Sometimes free offerings, sometimes Give-Back Days.

HAVE A FIVE-YEAR PLAN AND VISION FOR THE FUTURE BOY, do we!! A new Guest Welcome Center is needed and is happening!

The Garden would not have the revenue to be where we are, if it were not for Galaxy. We offer our sincere thanks to each person that has participated and attended over the years. Last year, Galaxy of Lights gave more than $500,000 back to the Garden, thus making a tremendous impact in our public engagement and our revenue.

As we look to the future, we plan to break ground in January 2016 on the new Guest Welcome Center. Although it is not ideal for weather, it will not interrupt Galaxy of Lights, protecting family tradition and securing funds that operate the Garden year round. Please come enjoy the Galaxy of Lights with your families, whether walking with family and dogs, or driving with friends and neighbors….and then watch the website for date and time of the groundbreaking! This Welcome Center will begin a new day for our Garden to flourish. The vision that was shared 20 years ago by Galaxy and even earlier by our founders is coming to a Garden near you!

Paula Steigerwald, CEO

featured events

We are breaking ground!

Dream No Small Dreams W

e are thrilled to announce that we will break ground on our spectacular new Guest Welcome Center on Wednesday, January 20, 2016 at 2 pm.

Most importantly, this endeavor will provide new resources that will allow the Garden to grow, remain relevant and become an even better place for the community and future generations.

The board, staff, consultants, architect and builder have worked So mark your calendar and join us tirelessly for more than a year for the official groundbreaking cerGroundbreaking for new Guest Welcome Center to create this stunning southern emony at 2 pm, January 20, 2016.

Wednesday, January 20, 2016 at 2pm style building that promises to be Then stay tuned and watch our a Huntsville icon. The new building will provide a strong progress through our E-blast, website, and Facebook page sense of arrival, expedite guest check-in and improve orienor come out for a visit and watch us grow! tation to the Garden. A larger gift shop and cafĂŠ will provide Visit our website for additional information. If you great shopping and casual dining.

The Guest Welcome Center offers three magnificent rental facilities for the most formal events to informal or casual events. The Grand Hall will seat up to 350 guests, the Carriage House will entertain up to 150 guests and the gorgeous glass Conservatory will host up to 40 guests. Depending on construction progress, we begin accepting Spring 2017 rentals in Spring 2016.

would like to make a contribution to this project, please contact Paula Steigerwald at psteigerwald@hsvbg.org or 256-830-4447 ext. 231 or Cynthia Potts at cpotts@hsvbg.org or 256-830-4447 ext. 242. Naming opportunities available.

www.hsvbg.org

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featured event Santa, twinkling lights and a walk in the snow - it must be the Galaxy of Lights, a holiday tradition in Huntsville for 20 years!

Changes are being made this year to lessen the wait time. To enhance the experience, two animated displays, “Helicopter with Dog Sled”, and “Helicopter Delivers Tree” have been added. Also new is “Doctor Santa”, a display inspired by a heartwarming Norman Rockwell painting of a doctor taking care of a little girl’s doll.

This year we will offer a $5 military discount at the gate each Monday in December. As in previous years, we will collect coats, blankets, mittens, non-perishable food items and pet food. A $1 discount is given when a donation of any of these items is PRESENTING SPONSOR: made. We are also a drop-off point for Toys for Tots.

The Garden is ever-mindful of the needs of the community. Look for our tree on the Tinsel Trail in downtown Huntsville and join us for the parade downtown on the evening of December 17.

Galaxy 5k logos Galaxy 5k logos

**

WALKING NIGHTS Friday, November 13 – Monday, November 16 Friday, November 20 – Tuesday, November 24 Dog Walking Nights – November 16 & 23 5:30 PM – 7:30 PM

WALKING NIGHT ADMISSION

Over 3

$

,000

in priz es!!!

GALAXY OF LIGHTS 3k HOLIDAY DASH » TUESDAY, DECEMBER 1, 6:30 PM

MEMBERS: Adults $6; Children 3+ $3; Dogs $1 NON-MEMBERS: Adults $7; Children 3+ $4; Dogs $1 No advance ticket sales for Walking Nights

DRIVING NIGHTS Thanksgiving – January 2, 2016* 5:30 pm - 9:00 PM

If serious running is not your speed then join us for the more relaxed pace of the Galaxy of Lights 3k Holiday Dash. Santa will be present handing out candy canes, posing for photos and collecting those all-important holiday wish lists. Wear your tacky sweaters, light yourself up and don your reindeer ears.

Registration fees for ages 11 & over $25, age 10 and under is $15 and 3 and under are free. Late registration fees will apply after November 20th with an additional $10 per age category. Long sleeve t-shirts are available for all participants registered by November 20th and as available after November 20th.

*Galaxy of Lights is closed Monday, November 30 for the Galaxy 5k and Tuesday, December 1 for the Galaxy 3k Holiday Dash.

Check the website for all information and registration. www.hsvbg.org Galaxy 3k holiday dash

PURCHASE TICKETS

Galaxy 3k holiday dash

**Galaxy of Lights 5k is November 30th and has very limited availability. Check our website for current status.

RACE SPONSORS:

DRIVING NIGHT ADMISSION Passenger Car - $25/car (Up to 10) Vans & Tour Buses - $25 for up to 10 people $3 each add’l person (Tour bus driver is free)

AT THE GATE: $25 (Many nights discounted to $20. See hsvbg.org for “at the gate” rates per night. Monday nights are military discount nights.)

ONLINE:

Tickets available at www.hsvbg.org

SHOPPE AT THE GARDEN: $20 ($15 for members).

Season passes and sets of 5 also available.

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events HOLIDAY COOKING & BRINING CLASS

G N O

Get your best i rls’ girlfriend and head to the Garden for an ight evening of fun and creativity. ut Make a takeSip Snack Create! home craft and enjoy light hors d’oeuvres. Beer and wine available for purchase. Here’s what we have planned!

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 17 6 – 7:30 PM » NICHOLS ARBOR Enjoy an evening of fun while learning a few new recipes and brining techniques.

Delicious appetizer, salads, side dish and turkey will be demonstrated and sampled.

Harvey Cotten will join the team from Organic Herbal Cooking for an informative and entertaining evening. Refreshing holiday beverages served along with take home recipe cards and hand-outs.

Members $25; Non-Members $30.

Please visit wwwhsvb.org for tickets or contact Tamara Huron at thuron@hsvbg.org or 256-830-4447, ext. 241.

LUNCH WITH IN BLOOM THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 19 11:30 AM – 12:30 PM » MURRAY HALL Start the holiday season with Huntsville’s most beloved flower design experts! Enjoy a delightful lunch buffet followed by a fun and enlightening presentation by Ron and Mark, the creative founders of In Bloom.

The talk will include notions of holiday décor at its best.

Members $25; Non-Members $30.

Contact Tamara Huron at thuron@hsvbg.org with questions or call 256-830-4447, ext. 241.

SOUTHERN TRADITIONS LUNCH WITH DR. KEN RIVENBARK TUESDAY, DECEMBER 8 11:30 AM – 12:30 PM » MURRAY HALL Join us for an appetizing lunch and special Traditions of Christmas presentation by Dr. Ken Rivenbark. Ken is the host of Southern Heirlooms cable television show airing in various cities across the South.

The presentation will highlight the joys of celebrating Christmas with families, creating new traditions and preserving your treasured family heirlooms.

Rivenbark is the owner of Rivenbark & Roper Antiques in Huntsville. Don’t miss this opportunity to meet him as he shares his passion for heirlooms in the season of Christmas.

Members $25; Non-Members $30.

Contact Tamara Huron at thuron@hsvbg.org with questions or call 256-830-4447, ext. 241.

SATURDAY WITH SANTA SATURDAY, DECEMBER 5 2 SEATINGS » 10 AM & 12 PM » NICHOLS ARBOR Join us for a festive fun event. Enjoy delicious, kid-friendly food, holiday crafts and play with powdery cold snow. Bring your camera and dress the kids for one-on-one time with Santa.

Pick your time and reserve your space; reservations are required. Don’t miss this merry event that will bring holiday smiles to the tots.

Members $12; Non-Members $15.

Tickets can be purchased at hsvbg.org or in the Shoppe at the Garden. Contact Tamara Huron at thuron@hsvbg.org with questions or call 256-830-4447, ext. 241.

WHOOPING CRANE PRESENTATION THURSDAY, JANUARY 7, 2016 6:30 – 8:00 PM » NICHOLS ARBOR SPEAKER: LIZZIE CONDON Keeping Whooping Cranes Safe Coordinator International Crane Foundation Over 12,000 Sandhill Cranes along with several pairs of Whooping Cranes spend the winter at Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge right here in our own backyard! Whooping Cranes are the rarest of all cranes and the tallest birds in North America. They stand five feet tall and have a seven to eight foot wingspan.

Want to learn more? Come hear Lizzie speak then head on over to the Wheeler NWR January 9 for the Crane Festival!

VINTAGE 70’S CATTAIL CRAFTS FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 6 6:30-8:30PM ANDERSON EDUCATION CENTER CLASSROOM

Taught by Soozi Pline & Misty Hertzig

NATURE INSPIRED HANDMADE EARRINGS & PENDANTS FRIDAY, JANUARY 15 6:30-8:30PM ANDERSON EDUCATION CENTER CLASSROOM

Taught by Soozi Pline & Pam McAlpine Members $30, Non-members $40

Register online at hsvbg.org or contact Soozi Pline at spline@hsvbg.org or 256-837-4344.

JANUARY 16 – FEBRUARY 29, 2016

Beaks & Barks Beaks & Barks returns to the Garden mid-January.

For the birding enthusiasts, you’ll be able to explore the Lewis Birding Trail, included on the North Alabama Birding Trail, and be part of the global Great Back Yard Bird Count February 12–15, 2016.

For the “Barks” part of Beaks & Barks, bring your favorite four-legged friend to the Garden each day to stretch your legs and theirs and play some fetch in our “No Leash Zone”. Your dog can play there off-leash with his pals while you make friends with other pet parents. Then you both can enjoy the Garden while strolling, on-leash, on the pet paths.

Garden membership or admission $1 per dog or $10 PawPass for the season.

Tickets $5. Contact Soozi Pline for more information: spline@hsvbg.org or 256-837-4344. www.hsvbg.org

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education&volunteer info HOMESCHOOL

is for Volunteer When you see the “V” with an article, it means that volunteers are needed for that specific activity.

Nature’s Classroom - where there’s always someting growing on!

NOVEMBER 2015…

K-2nd: November 10, 17 3rd-5th: November 11, 18 6th-8th: November 11, 18

12-1:30 PM 12-1:30 PM 12-1:30 PM

DECEMBER 2015… ELECTRICITY PART I

Identify renewable and nonrenewable energy sources which are used to generate the electricity we need for our homes, businesses, schools, and factories.

K-2nd: 3rd-5th: 6th-8th:

December 1 December 2 December 2

12-1:30 PM 12-1:30 PM 12-1:30 PM

DECEMBER 2015… ELECTRICITY PART II

Students use the information learned in Part I to create their very own tabletop Galaxy of Lights display to take home!

K-2nd: 3rd-5th: 6th-8th:

December 15 December 16 December 16

12-1:30 PM 12-1:30 PM 12-1:30 PM

JANUARY 2016… WHOOPING CRANE

Children are born with an innate predisposition toward becoming close to and even a part of nature, so we must foster this love of the outdoors and help our students understand the world in which they live and play. January’s lessons will focus on increasing student awareness of the behavior and characteristics of the endangered Whooping Crane that migrates through Alabama in.

K-2nd: 3rd-5th: 6th-8th:

January 5 January 6 January 6

12-1:30 PM 12-1:30 PM 12-1:30 PM

JANUARY 2016… ALL THINGS SNOW AND ICE

We’ll take the winter weather inside with hands-on science and math lessons about snow and ice.

K-2nd: 3rd-5th: 6th-8th:

January 19 January 20 January 20

12-1:30 PM 12-1:30 PM 12-1:30 PM

For more information, contact Cookie Adams at volunteer@hsvbg.org or 256-830-4447, ext. 238.

SEEDS TO SPROUTS Come and enjoy exciting stories for the season, crafts, learning activities, and walks (weather permitting) in the Garden with your little Sprout! Each class offers a different adventure to get your little one experiencing nature and all it has to offer.

SELECTED FRIDAYS FROM 10 –11 AM November 6 November 20 December 4 December 11 January 8 January 22

Fall Leaves, EC Seeds of a Pumpkin, AEC Winter’s Arrival, AEC Here Comes Santa Cat, AEC Lemonade in Winter, AEC Tracks in the Snow, EC

LOCATIONS: AEC: Anderson Education Center Classroom EC: Boeing Education Classroom AGE: 2-5 (PARENT AND CHILD CLASS) $8 for the first child, $5 for each additional sibling in the same family. Adults free with membership or Garden admission.

Pre-registration is encouraged. You can save the time of having to stop and pay on your way in! You can register online or over the phone at 256-837-4104.

Remember to take advantage of our Frequent “Sprouters” Program and earn a free class for every three paid classes that you attend. Pick up your card at the next class.

Details available from Peggy East, 256-489-7089.

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Evelyn Lucas

In December of 1979, fourteen individuals met to discuss the formation of a botanical garden in Huntsville, Alabama. Four years later a master plan was in place, and well… you all know the rest of the story.

Evelyn Lucas was one of those fourteen individuals with a dream and a plan.

In early July, the Garden lost a treasure when Evelyn Lucas passed away. She served as founder, president and board member of the Garden, and for many years volunteered for Galaxy of Lights, spring plant sale and children’s special events.

She established the Garden’s first Gift Shop then located in Murray Hall, serving as manager and buyer.

Evelyn’s leadership, devoted presence and gardening expertise proved to be invaluable in many ways. A positive influence not only for the Garden but for the City of Huntsville, she was an active member and mentor in the Federated Garden Clubs of Huntsville-Madison County, Huntsville Beautification Board, Master Gardeners of Alabama, Alabama Council of Landscape Design Consultants and other community endeavors.

Galaxy Grub Galaxy Grub is a quirky name for a long standing tradition and well received nourishment for the 35 to 45 guys and gals who prepare the Garden for Galaxy of Lights. Members from the Garden Guild provide food three days a week during both the set up and take down of the displays; members of the Garden at large are welcome to provide food.

VOLUNTEER SPOTLIGHT

Pictured L to R: Lou Ossip, Galaxy Guy; Bob Hovde, Galaxy Guy; Ann Tippie, Galaxy Chairperson; Sharon Cruce, Galaxy Co-Chairperson; Peggy East, Galaxy Grub Chairperson

Thank you, Evelyn for your sweetness, knowledge, hard work and devotion.

volunteer news The 2015 Butch Damson Volunteer of the Year

HAROLD HOLMES

O

ver the last 10 years, one of the Garden’s most dedicated volunteers has shared with us his trillium research — thus creating a nationally recognized trillium collection. Due to his extensive cultivation, planting, signage, and mapping efforts, along with stellar record

keeping (all at his own expense), he has put Huntsville Botanical Garden on the map.

We are now recognized nationally through the North American Plant Collections Consortium. The NAPCC has deemed it “by far the most extensive public collection of Eastern North American native trillium.”

The Trillium Collection has recently received provisional status and must meet a few additional requirements within the year to attain full accreditation and full member status. Our Collection is located within the Mathews Nature Trail and Bush Azalea Trail and is an educational and display garden with several major collections displaying thousands of trillium and hundreds of select candidate trillium forms.

Without one of the Garden’s most dedicated volunteers and the person responsible for this, there would be no trillium garden

at Huntsville Botanical Garden and we would not be able to share this treasure with the local, national and international communities.

No matter the weather or time of year, Harold spends hours on his hands and knees planting, caring for, collecting data and seeds, labeling and observing thousands of trillium. He knows each plant, its origin and condition. He began volunteering in 2006 with the goal of creating a nationally-recognized trillium display, a goal which he has achieved.

The dedication and support of this passionate, hardworking and persistent man shows his love for the Garden. We are most indebted to him and the establishment of The Holmes Trillium Garden, thus recipient of The Butch Damson Volunteer of the Year Award – HAROLD HOLMES!

The 2015 Vernon Bush Distinguished Service Award

VIRGINIA HURST

V

irginia Hurst is part of the Huntsville Botanical Garden’s past, present and future. She is a leader, mentor and volunteer. Virginia has touched all areas of the garden in some way. The Daylily Garden has benefited from her love of daylilies and master gardener experience. A committed member of the Horticulture committee, she assisted the Eagle Scouts while they planned a G scale railroad that would become a permanent part of the garden. The railroad garden display was created with Virginia’s association with the Bonsai club.

From the visitor and volunteer experience to staff needs, Virginia is a role model, working diligently to improve all aspects of the garden. Her expertise was often behind closed doors as she quietly performed her garden duties. Her dedicated efforts are now formally recognized as we present her with the 2015 Vernon Bush Distinguished Service Award.

As a member of the Horticulture committee and garden Board, Virginia was always looking for ways to improve. She would take pictures and bring back ideas when she traveled. She helped coordinate her garden club’s support of a display bed in the garden for many years. Representing the Horticulture department to the board, Virginia worked to make sure that the Board understood departmental needs. While on the Horticulture and Site committee, she also participated in the planning and execution of the Children’s Garden. She worked tirelessly on The Columns newsletter, prodding staff for interesting, up-to-date and accurate information. She recognized the need for a garden website, helped to get it started, and continues to edit and update when necessary. www.hsvbg.org

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education&horticulture garden calendar things you could or should be doing in your garden…

NOVEMBER • Ideal time to plant trees and shrubs • Plant perennial bulbs such as daffodils and tulips • Till vegetable gardens to expose insects to winter cold and to allow for frost heave to improve soil texture • Turn off irrigation systems and drain lines

DECEMBER • Prune hollies for indoor holiday decorations. Deciduous winterberry hollies are exceptional for this.

• Water house plants with room temperature water • Keep live Christmas trees outside as long as possible.

Only keep in the house for one week. Spray tree with anti-transpirant prior to bringing inside

JANUARY • Sharpen and oil tools and pruners • Keep birdfeeders full, be sure to provide water • Recycle your cut Christmas tree at the Leaf Mulch Pile • Begin planning your seed orders • Review your landscape to consider where you need to improve the ‘bones’ or evergreen structure of your garden

See www.hsvbg.org/yourgarden for an expanded Garden Calendar

don’t forget…

Pick up a “What’s Growing On” list in the Linda J. Smith Visitor Center to see plants of interest. There’s a new list each month.

Pick up a load of leaf mulch on the first and third Saturdays of the month at the mulch pile adjacent to the Garden.

A Garden stroll during winter days provides many delightful encounters of migrating birds.

Get answers to your plant and gardening questions at plantinfo@hsvbg.org.

My name is Jayne Funderburk and I am a second year master’s student at Auburn University studying horticulture in the public horticulture program under Dr. Carolyn Robinson. I am working as an intern at Huntsville Botanical Garden in the fall of 2015 gathering data for my master’s thesis. My research is on the social and education side of horticulture and will involve working with second grade elementary students in the Huntsville area and the education department at HBG. I will conduct pre and post field trip activities with the students to see the effects of student behavior, knowledge acquisition, and retention. I will determine if student behavior improves on an education field trip at a public garden when exposed to activities before and after the trip. I will also determine if student interest in horticulture and environmental sciences increases by attending a field trip to a public garden. Specifically, the students will participate in butterfly garden activities and the butterfly field trip offered at HBG. The Purdy Butterfly House is stunning in the fall and never crowded, making it a perfect time for a butterfly field trip.

December 26 – January 15 8

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Delightful Encounters

BY HERB LEWIS

Education Department Partners with Auburn University

Christmas Tree Recycling

bird’s eye view

Many birds that migrate from northern latitudes linger for the winter in the security of the Garden’s natural forests and meadows.

On a cool morning walk along placid lakes, a meandering stream, and through the forests of the Nature, Azalea and Dogwood Trails it is possible to see fifteen to twenty migrating bird species.

The lakes offer sightings of Ring-necked and Gadwall Ducks and an occasional Spotted Sandpiper. Forest trails attract the largest numbers of birds. Chipping and Whitethroated Sparrows, Ruby-crowned and Goldencrowned Kinglets, Dark-eyed Juncos, Yellowrump, and Pine Warblers, Brown-headed and Red-breasted Nuthatches, Yellow-bellied Sapsuckers, Cedar Waxwings, and the solitary Hermit Thrush feed among fallen leaves, on berry-laden hollies, and seed grasses.

Experience the solitude of a quiet winter walk on a chilly misty morning or cool afternoon and encounter the Garden’s diversity of bird life.

A map of the Lewis Birding Trail, available at the Visitor Center, contains a listing of the most likely birds to be seen in the winter months.

If you would like to recycle your Christmas tree, please drop it off at the designed area at the leaf mulch pile located on the east side of the Garden. Please remove all ornaments and the stand from the tree before dumping. Trees are accepted from December 26 through January 15. As weather permits, trees will be chipped and the resulting mulch will be stockpiled for people to use in their gardens.

notes from Forcing Bulbs the garden

by CAROL LAMBDIN

horticulture

NOW THAT THE DAYS ARE SHORTER, the temperatures are going down and the Galaxy of Lights is just around the corner, we begin to think about the holidays. One way to bring new growth, flowers and fragrance inside is to force daffodils and amaryllis bulbs. Paperwhite daffodils, or Narcissus tazetta, are not hardy in this region, so forcing them inside provides us an opportunity to smell and enjoy these extremely fragrant white flowers.

To do this, place in a shallow dish or vase with rinsed pebbles, gravel or glass beads ¾ the height of the container. Place bulbs root side down and fill in-between bulbs with more filler. Keep the bulb at least 1/3 above the finish gravel level, fill with water to the bottom of the bulb (do not completely immerse.) Place in well-lit area, do not let them dry out and rotate the pot to keep stems from leaning. When blooms emerge, 4-6 weeks after planting, replace the water with ½ water and ½ drinking alcohol (gin or vodka) to keep stalks from falling over. You may also need to stake your blooms with small branches or bamboo. You can plant Amaryllis in the same matter. Both make wonderful gifts for your garden friends.

Ilex x verticillata 'Winter Red' WINTERBERRY HOLLY

BERRIES, BARK TYPE HEIGHT NATIVE SUN/SHADE SOIL MOISTURE INTEREST WILDLIFE VALUE AND FLOWERS

LOCATION IN THE GARDEN

Acer 'Coral Bark', Coral Bark Maple

decidous 12-15' no sun, semi moderate small tree

stunning red birds bark in winter

Four Seasons Garden

Camellia sasanqua, 'Yuletide' Camellia

evergreen 10-12' no shade moist, acidic shrub

red flowers in winter months

Dogwood Trail

Chimonanthus praecox, Wintersweet

decidous 8-10' no shrub

sun, moist semi-shade

extremely fragrant birds flowers in January

Near Train and Fern Glade

Hamamelis vernalis, Witchhazel

medium decidous 8-12' yes flowering tree

sun, moist, dry semi-shade

fragrant yellow to birds red flowers in winter

Bush Azalea Trail

nodding flowers that bloom from January through May

Dogwood Trail, Nature Trail

Helleborus orientalis, evergreen 1-2' no shade moderate Lenten Rose and ground cover H. foetidus, Bear's Foot Hellebore

birds, bees

low shelter, deer resistant

Ilex x verticillata 'Winter Red', I. 'Sparkleberry', Winterberry Holly

decidous shrub, 6-8' yes sun moist needs male pollinator

stems loaded with birds, bees red berries in winter months

Bush Azalea Trail, Four Seasons Garden

Ilex decidua, Possomhaw Holly

decidous shrub, 12-15' yes sun, moist, dry needs male semi-shade pollinator

stems loaded with birds, bees red berries in winter months

Botanical Drive

Ilex decidua, 'Finch's Gold', Possomhaw Holly

decidous shrub, 8-10' yes sun, moist, dry needs male semi-shade pollinator

stems loaded with birds, bees bright yellow berries in winter months

Children's Garden entrance, Botanical Drive

sweet, fragrant blossoms in January

Near Train

Lonicera fragrantissima, decidous shrub 6-8' no sun moderate Fragrant Honeysuckle

birds, bees

BULBS November is the time to plant Narcissus sp., or Daffodils, and other spring bulbs. Plant for a sequence of blooms with these hardy bulbs. Rule of thumb, plant bulbs three times the diameter of the bulb deep. Plant in large natural drifts for a stunning effect.

VERY EARLY BULBS

EARLY-SEASON DAFFODILS

Crocus (Crocus sp.)

'February Gold' Snowdrops (Galanthus sp.)

'Little Gem' Scilla (Scilla sp.)

'Tete-a-tete'

MID-SEASON DAFFODILS

'Actaea' 'King Alfred' 'Ice Follies' 'Mt. Hood' 'Prof. Einstein'

LATE-SEASON DAFFODILS

'Cheerfulness' 'Quail' 'Thalia' 'FEBRUARY GOLD' www.hsvbg.org

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contributions Contributions for April-June 2015 IN HONOR OF Robert Lee DeYoung Ronold Thomas Ron Cooper & Mark Kimbrough Hosta Society of North AL Gertrud Nein Regina R. Dembo Jan Pridmore Garden Guild

IN MEMORY OF

In Memory of Long-time Member and Friend John A. Jurenko John and his wife, Ruth Jurenko, have been members and generous supporters of the Garden for more than twenty years.

John was a current Foundation Board member at the time of his death.

The Jurenkos and their Foundation generously provided the very popular sculpture, “Tug of War”, in the Children’s Garden. In addition, they also donated funds for the beautiful new entrance including the spectacular gates off of Bob Wallace Avenue.

John’s wisdom, sense of community and kind heart has left a lasting legacy at the Garden. Paula Steigerwald, CEO, said she would often seek his counsel for vision and direction of the Garden. He had a great marketing and business mind and was willing to share ideas for our growth.

Join us as we pay tribute to him, his family, colleagues and the many lives he touched.

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Huntsville Botanical Garden

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Dot Barr Jane & Rono Prince Mrs. Dorothy Blair Julie & Harold Stephens Betsy Bourner Paul Bourner Family Ken Britton Sam Denham Ken & Riley Britton Betty Booth Billy Brooks Ben & Carla King John & Gail Moss Madden & Cooper Browder Browder Friends & Family Diana Burton Sherrie Watson Gertrude B. Byram Margaret & Mack Vann Ralph Byram Ron & Sylvia Elsner Betty Chesak Redstone Garden Club Lillian S. Clift Ronold B. Thomas William John Daniel Tom & Blanch Irby Mary Deyoung Jon R. Moody, M.D. Sally Ann Elliott Janet Crowther Becky Feehan Terry & James Bradford Craig Brotchie & Ann Dunwoody Edmund & Nikki Cotton MG(R) & Mrs. William T. Crosby Patti Fitzgerald LTG(R) & Mrs. Richard Formica John & Melinda Hamilton Col (R) Leif G. Johnson Frances & Elizabeth Mahon Jim & Alice Myles Robert & Anna Pastorelli James & Rebecca Pillsbury Demy & Rob Robley Tweed & Michelle Ross Lauri & Chandler Sherrell LTC Thomas M. Shirk Mary Ann Tucker Michal Turner Bob & Mailyn Whiteford Patricia Wrobel Denise Wyche Bruce Zeiger Ann Garnett Jon R. Moody, M.D. Malcolm & Lucy Geoghegan William & Susan Geoghegan Jim Hamilton Renee West Jack Harbarger Margaret & Mack Vann Sara Drake Henderson Howard & Carol Miller

Clark McCracken Hereford, Sr. Ronold Thomas Mrs. Margaret Hicks Julie & Harold Stephens Kurt Juergensen Heinrich Hahn Mr. John Jurenko Mr. & Mrs. Hanson Couvillon, Sr. Heidi Maria Kunitz Regina Dembo Patt Lacy Renee M. Jasinski Camille Litton Lancaster Mah Jongg Friends Tommy Lewis Margaret & Mack Vann L. Jack Little Mike & Veali Holtcamp Ray Low Ken & Lee Chandler Emily Dalee Evelyn Lucas Dot Arnts Bethany Bankowski Blossomwood Garden Club John & Carolyn Blue Randy & Brenda Bounds Julia Sutton Boyd The Bragg Family Madelyn Poteat Bussey Daniel & Anne Clough Gladys Comus Virginia Cook Regina R. Dembo Merph & Mona Ellis Carlene & George Elrod Dr. & Mrs. Carl Gessler, Jr. Garden Guild Barbara & Frank Gasper John & Eva Geiger Rena Hamilton Richard & Barbi Hamilton Steve & Marcia Hastings Marjorie J. Holder Huntsville Twickenham Rose Society Rebecca Harbor Jones Amber & Jack King Ann B. Lane Mr. & Mrs. Donald Lewter Charles & Ann Lifer The Loder Family Mr. & Mrs. Peter Lowe Ila & Leonard Mitchum Freya & Loch Neely Paul & Martha Nelson Mr. & Mrs. James E. Rainey, Jr. Randy Roper & Ken Rivenbark Ellen & Gig Robinson Mr. & Mrs. Gene Sapp Mitzi Sewell, Beth Griggs, Shelley Delay & Leslie Crosby Ben & Lossie Small George & Lee Anne Smith Julie & Harold Stephens Margaret & Mack Vann Nancy Weaver Renee West Barbara Wilson Wendy Wilson & Curtis Benzle Elizabeth Wise Nick Mangus Martha & Eugene Andrzejewski David & Laura Brown Mike & Lynn Carden Virginia Cochran Sharon & Jim Cruce Graeme & Sue Duthie Peggy East Merph & Mona Ellis Marge Feist Galaxy Crew Jeff & Candace Garber Thomas Gill

Jean Hairston MG(R) & Mrs. John Holly Bob & Sandy Hovde Dennis & Linda Kross James McGough, Jr. David & Linda McGuiness Al & Lorraine Mullin Louis & Evelyn Ossip Col.(Ret.) & Mrs. Harold Stubbs Ken & Ann Tippie Steven & Pamela Twigg Mack & Mary Underwood Dr. Oscar Maxwell Ann & Walt Crumpton Mr. David McGehee Julie & Harold Stephens Dr. Clay Moquin Julie & Harold Stephens Joseph O. Morton Linda Morton Phillip Mullins Dories & Jim Layne Lois Proudfoot Phillips Madelyn, Joan, Shirley, Robbie Barbara & Libby (The Breakfast Bunch) Mr. Jerry Radde Mr. & Mrs. Hanson Couvillon, Sr. Mr. Matt Ragland Julie & Harold Stephens Jerome R. (Jerry) Redus Jim & Pat Lindberg Meg, Beth & Bob Catherine Rice Margaret & Mack Vann Mr. John Robinson Mr. & Mrs. Hanson Couvillon, Sr. Anne Bugbee Schoenknecht Anne Crawford Telse & Bernard Davis Richard Demming Cynthia Forrester Beverly Layne Patricia Lowery James & Beverly McEuen Kevin O’Neal Scientic, Inc. Bob Nina Senn Jim & Judy Sheehy Phil & Sherry Taylor Al, Pat, Chris & Jody Weikart Carolyn & John White Oliver & Jeanene Ziglar Catherine Simmons John & Marion Laszar Dr. Thomas A. Smith Ann & Walt Crumpton Guy J. Spencer, Jr. John & Gail Moss Ronold B. Thomas Mrs. Margaret Eileen Scott Sullivan Michael D. Brown Lillian Cowart The Surgery Center of Huntsville Material Management Dept Hisako Kuramoto Teruya John Fee Louis & Evelyn Ossip Tristenne Robin Jean Templeton Hal & Patti Tichenor Phil Vest Margaret & Mack Vann Roy Wallace Margaret & Mack Vann Clare Welden Robert & Maria Cayse Tom & Jane Hancock Peter & Sharon Heidesch Arlene & Leon Schoo

Elmira Wilson Margaret & Mack Vann

BOUQUET IN HONOR OF Addie Matheny Huntsville Botanical Garden

BUTTERFLY RELEASE IN HONOR OF Rachel Smith Nancy Elkins Riley Peyton Scott Wendy Wilson & Curt Benzle

BUTTERFLY RELEASES IN MEMORY OF Esther T. Boyer Patricia Boyer Ralph Byram Huntsville Botanical Garden Carole Campbell Randy Neely Bailey Alexandra Carswell U.U.C.H. Choir Joy Bark Burris Bob & Jefflyn Weed Eula Clark Huntsville Botanical Garden Liesel Coffey Phillip V. Williams John Daniel Huntsville Botanical Garden Armando De La Paz Gail C. Wall Rick Dowdy Bob & Jefflyn Weed Heide G. Engler Bob & Jefflyn Weed John McCaleb Fay Bob & Kay Brotherton Jackie Fanning Huntsville Botanical Garden Antonio Fuller The Robert Brothertons & The James Davenports Larola F. B. Gamble Knights of Peter Claver & Ladies Auxiliary Council & Court #286 Dianne Jackson Glaser Sandra Turner & Margaret Schock Pam Godwin Huntsville Botanical Garden William A. Guthrie Edwin & Beverly Ricks Sara Drake Henderson Catherine Hall Trena Hill Michele Hasting Larry Jacobsen Huntsville Botanical Garden Helen Jones Betty & Ron Lankford Peggy Kary Patricia & Charles Buttrey “Miss Gene” Levens Bob & Jefflyn Weed Ray Low Delta Chi Alumni Jacksonville State University Jo & Doug Stephens & Shelby & Seth Evelyn Lucas Huntsville Botanical Garden

David McCrickard Robin, Marilyn & Jordan Cozby Virgie Dale McKenzie Randy Neely Annette Hill McLendon Karol Kapustka Dr. Mabry B. Miller Betty Peeler Mr. & Mrs. C. W. Mitchell Susan Livingston Phyllis Winifred Neil Odden Brian & Lisa Andrews Megan Pacheco Roy & Debra Christman Mrs. Doris Phillips Ron & Betty Lankford Stanley Plattenburg Renee West Dennis Powell Jeff & Glennis & Family Janie Rippy Renee West Anne Schoenknecht The Weatherly Heights Art Club Jandence Scruggs Phillip V. Williams Kathryn Sharitt Ann & Mark Koons Dr. Nagendra Singh The Weatherly Heights Art Club Carol Durham Stafford Janet Mayo Mary Stallworth Huntsville Botanical Garden Betty Sullivan Huntsville Botanical Garden Herschel Tew Huntsville Botanical Garden Mr. David H. Walker Helen & Bruce Taylor Brigitte Winch Huntsville Botanical Garden

IN KIND GIFTS Gene & Alicia Beam Below the Radar Vernon & Dean Bush Chambers Bottling Co. Lucy Cotten Nikki Cotton Jim & Sharon Cruce Jerry & Edna Deener Domino’s Peggy Gunter Harold & Brenda Holmes Veali Holtcamp Huntsville Fern Society Edward Kiker Marion Laszar Dennis Mack Irene Mangus Ronald C. Marshall Metropolitan Disc Jockey Deemer & Jimmie Self Dr. & Mrs. Bill Shergy Jesse & Sherry Stutts Bill & Ellen Taylor United Johnson Brothers Wines Rachel E. Young

membership New Member and Volunteer Orientation

LUNCH & LEARN

THURSDAY, JANUARY 14, 2016 11:30 AM –12:30 PM BOEING EDUCATION CLASSROOM GUIDED OPTIONAL GARDEN TOUR 12:30–1 PM The Orientation is designed to help you learn about: » Membership benefits for new and existing members » Volunteering at the Garden » The past, present and future of the Garden » The many things to do at the Garden!

Bring your lunch or you can reserve a box lunch for $6 from the Garden of Eat’n. Box Lunch Reservations requested by Monday, January 11, 2016. Reservations for lunches or the Orientation to rwaldrop@hsvbg.org or 256.830.4447 x229.

See you at the Garden!

Gift of Membership Holiday gift? Birthday? Wedding?

Anniversary? How about trying to find that perfect gift for the Grandparents?

The gift of the Garden is always a perfect fit.

For a full year and year round, there is always something “growing on” at the Garden that is perfect to share.

New & Renewing Members July through September 2015 PATRON MEMBERS ($500) Charles & Sarah Allen* Erich & Michele Erker Dr. & Mrs. Jeff Garber Douglas & Carol Nixon, June Crumley Dr. & Mrs. Charles R. Overstreet Ms. Barbara Paul & Mr. Tom Hickerson Emily & Steve Robertson Dr. & Mrs. Charles P. Yarn Jr. FELLOW MEMBERS ($250) Jeanne & Bobby Allen Jo Ann & Fred Braam Marianne Case & Virginia Serr Bernard & Telse Davis Mary & Jim Griffith Thomas & Susan Griffith Jean Hairston Dr. & Mrs. David W. Hertha George & Shirley McCrary Mr. Trace D. Parish & Mr. Richard Reed Dottye & Thom Pierce* Mr. Kenneth H. Prater Lee & Mary Lee Prout Ann & Ernest Rivard Reginald & Diane Skinner John & Daisy Smith Mike & Libby Stanfield Dr. Mary Ruth Yates

FRIEND MEMBERS ($175) Ken & Barbara Booth Chris & Meriwether Brown Mike & Lynn Carden Dr. Joan G. Dowdle Merph & Mona Ellis Bruce & Charlotte Fulton Mrs. Patricia Hair Michael, Martha & Susan Hannan Mrs. Greta Inglis Carol & Mike Jacobs Ms. Jane S. Jones Lynda & Randy Middleton Sheila & Nick Pappas Dr. Laurie B. Patrick Carolyn & Robert Purser* Dr. & Mrs. John L. Regner Janet & Bob Reville Dr. Sid Smith & Mrs. Patty Smith Marian & Drayton Talley Arthur & Jeanette Tokaz Cindy, Paul, & Matthew Tygielski Suzan Von Hor John & Charlotte Wessel Dr. & Mrs. Don A. Wheeler AFFILIATE MEMBERS ($125) Sherwood & Susan Anderson Buck & Rena Bannister

AFFILIATE MEMBERS (cont’d) Ken & Merry Barfield Walter & Margaret Batson Dr. & Mrs. David Billings Mrs. Virginia Brandau Luanne & Jimmy Brewer Hollis & Fairee Bridges* Mr. & Mrs. Louis T. Carr, Jr. Mary & Larry Casey Ken & Susan Corbett Susan & Dan Cox Nancy W. Coy & Leslie Gramke Dr. & Mrs. Larry H. Crow Barbara & Eldridge Lee Crowe Alan & Ella Cvancara Murray & Rebecca Dickson Jane & Geoff Ellison Brigitte & Lisa Gerhardt Tanya & David Gilliam Dr. & Mrs. Jim Goldbach Sandee & Jeff Gorham Ann H. Gravlee Dr. & Mrs. Dick Hartman Steven & Bonita Herold Billy & Liz Herrin Ben & Fran Hollis Kathryn M. Jackson Amanda Lineberry William & Mary Mastin David & Linda McGuiness Donna & Steven Messervy Eric Moore

AFFILIATE MEMBERS (cont’d) Colin Moynihan Louis & Evelyn Ossip Margaret Pelham Robin & Lewis Phillips* Kate Pimmel Mrs. Rebecca Pollock Mrs. Miriam Pullins Janet & Marc Salverson* Mr. Thomas M. Simpson & Mr. Daniel L. McKitrick Scott, S.A. & Sharon Speet Charles & Marilyn Stewart Joseph & Janice Sturbois Noel & Linda Tallon Ann & Ken Tippie Wendi Tumminello William & Jane Walley Renee West Harry & Mary Wiley Elizabeth & Ronald Workman Dr. Mary Ruth Yates Brig. Gen. John G. & Mrs. Gina Zierdt *denotes multi-year membership

Scarecrow Trail Winners Announced Thanks to all who participated in our “Pure Imagination” Scarecrow Trail, Hay Bale Art and Haunted Hang-Outs.

The variety of scarecrows was amazing, each unique and a winner in their own right! Voting was held during the month of September with hundreds of ballots turned in.

Congratulations to all…

1st Place:

Welcome to Wonka World

by Redstone Garden Club

2nd Place:

Crowbot by PP&M IT Intergraph

3rd Place:

Twilight Sparkle by Madison Friends of the Library Garden

Hay Bale Art: Inside Out by

Virginia Tech Alumni

Purchase your gift online at

hsvbg.org/membership

We appreciate all the support from the community!

See you next year! www.hsvbg.org

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Huntsville Botanical Garden

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4747 Bob Wallace Avenue Huntsville, Alabama 35805

Non-Profit Org US Postage PAID Permit No. 110 Huntsville, AL

ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED

WWW.HSVBG.ORG

The Corporate Partner program offers year-round recognition and many levels of benefits for our member companies.

shareholder ($10,000-$24,999) 3

S , Inc.

underwriter

($5,000-$9,999) Bradley Arant Boult Cummings LLP • Dynetics Intuitive Research and Technology Corp • The Boeing Company Toyota Alabama • Turner Construction Company

investor

($2,500-$4,999) IPC (InfoPro Corporation) • LMI Teledyne Brown Engineering • Thompson Gray

supporter

($1,500-$2,499) CALIBRE • COLSA Corporation • Brenda Armstrong, Edward Jones John Butterfield, Edward Jones • Kitty Davenport, Edward Jones L-3 • Sigmatech, Inc • Troy 7 For details on becoming a corporate partner or event sponsor, contact Amy Hamilton, 256-830-4447 ext. 239 or ahamilton@hsvbg.org

All proceeds support Huntsville Botanical Garden.

Complimentary, signature gift wrap available.

Members receive 10% discount. Normal exclusions apply.