Garden Times

WINTER 2011

gardentimes

Don Williamson

n e w s l e t t e r o f l e w i s g i n t e r b o ta n i c a l g a r d e n

November 25–January 9 Trevor Wrayton

Patricia Cancro

Celebrating the season in deLIGHTful ways!

GardenFest’s half-million holiday lights magically transform Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden into a winter wonderland of fantasy, festivity and family fun. This year promises plenty of surprises as staff and volunteers unveil yet another fascinating theme, amazing new light displays and magnificent botanical decorations…all complemented by the best in seasonal entertainment, dining and shopping!

Visit often to fully experience Dominion GardenFest—the region’s ultimate holiday extravaganza!

presenting sponsor

contributing & supporting sponsors

media sponsors

Altria Group McGuireWoods LLP

NBC-12

Richmond Times-Dispatch

in this issue 2 Message from the President & CEO

5–6 GardenFest Calendar

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8 Education

New Director of Horticulture

4 Garden Calendar

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6–7 GardenFest at a Glance 9

Volunteer Opportunities

10 Catered Events &

Staff Recognition 11

Sharing the Garden & Annual Fund

12

Holiday Shopping

New this year • “Nature’s DeLights” theme • Laser light show kicks off Dominion GardenFest (Nov. 25, 5:30–6PM) • Peppermint Lane • Asian Valley dragon • Walk-through peacock arch • 250-foot tunnel of lights • Lighting of “Diamonds in the Rough,” Patrick Dougherty’s towering stick sculpture • Caroling every Tuesday night • Central Garden’s dancing waters and lights • More larger-than-life veggies and animals • Whimsical fairy house botanicals • Oversized “LOVE” artwork, courtesy of the Virginia Tourism Corporation. Tip: Take a photo of loved ones in front of the 8-foot-tall letters spelling “LOVE,” and then share with family and friends through social media.

Returning this year • Children’s Garden adventures • S’more toasting at the fire pit • Garden Keeper and Butterfly Fairy • Photos at the grand Holiday Tree • Dining and wish-list sharing with Santa • Holiday train display • Shopping in the BLING House and Garden Shop • Merry Mondays, GardenFest for Fidos, FREE Member Nights...and more.

Details at http://bit.ly/gardenfest

10/25/11 11:23 AM

Message from the President & CEO* Imagination

S

ometimes I think we could make the world a better place by giving everyone a new camera! New cameras compel you to look at the world in renewed ways—even things that surround you every day. One of our longtime friends bought a new lens, and happily brought it to Lewis Ginter to see what it could do. I got to see the world that surrounds me every day with fresh eyes through Sue’s pictures.

I think this is the way children experience the Garden—without all the expectation we might have for design or collections. Each new encounter has the potential of wonder. Every leaf, insect and rock has a story to tell.

Children’s thoughts are free, unconstructed—full of imagination.

Sue’s pictures took me back to a time when my imagination was freer floating and open to possibilities. I discovered the head of a dragon in the bog garden (a pitcher plant, Sarracenia) and an amazing fort of green logs worthy of the Jamestown settlers (even if the logs are only 3-foot-tall horsetails, Equisetum). Never before had I noticed that the center of a Cattleya orchid looks like an old man with a mustache and beard.

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“ Each new encounter has the potential of wonder. Every leaf, insect and rock has a story to tell.”

editor’s box The Garden Times newsletter is mailed three times a year to Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden members.

Volume XXVI, Number 3 president & ceo Frank Robinson newsletter editor Lynn Kirk

If I miss seeing the magic, do you? If so, bring a camera on your next visit and see what it reveals for you. Or, bring a child. Give him/her a small bag to collect anything of interest found on the ground. You will be amazed what they see at their level, but also what their imaginations bring to a seed pod or a cicada skin.

Nancy Hugo and Robert Llewellyn have recently published a book entitled Seeing Trees. It is a marvelous exploration of the intimate details of these giants of the natural world. Next time you are in the Garden Shop, take a peek at it. It is a curriculum that could keep you completely fascinated for the next year. It would be a perfect gift and a way to spend quality time with your children or grandchildren.

Imagination is more than just a momentary pleasure. It is the way in which we gain insight and solve problems. It is a refreshing of the mind enabling us to see beyond the immediate. Imagination brought us airplanes, flu vaccines and symphonies. Imagination opens Photos by Sue Anderson; “Imaginative enhancements” by Frank RobINSON up new prospects for careers and hobbies. Ask any teacher how to develop a young mind and she will tell you—take your children to a museum, a garden or on a family trip. Show them the world—their minds will ignite with possibilities.

Come to the Garden. Look for the monsters emerging from the soil, or seed pods that look like a space satellite, or the biggest nest of twigs you can imagine and find awe in the engineering capacity of a bird. Whatever tool helps—a camera, a book, a baggie to fill—grab it and come.

There is more here than meets the eye—amazing things just waiting for you to discover. And the best thing is… they are real!

special thanks LGBG staff for editorial assistance design Elevation *See page 10 for related announcement

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10/25/11 11:23 AM

New Director of Horticulture Welcome to Grace Chapman!

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fter a national search, Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden welcomes Grace Chapman as its new director of horticulture. Chapman has a strong public gardens background with experience at premier gardens in the United States and United Kingdom. Most recently she was horticulture supervisor at the Ambler Arboretum of Temple University in Ambler, Pennsylvania. Grace has a Master of Science in public horticulture with a certificate in museum studies from the Longwood Graduate Program, University of Delaware. Her Bachelor of Science degree is in agricultural interdisciplinary studies with a public gardens management specialization from University of Florida. As a recipient of the prestigious Martin McLaren Horticulture Scholar award presented by the Garden Club of America, Chapman went to England to work on the “Eden Project” and to study botanic garden education, practical horticulture and landscape design at the Royal Botanic Gardens Kew, Royal Horticulture Society Rosemoor and the Chelsea Physic Garden; and in Scotland at the Royal Botanic Gardens Edinburgh. Watch for an interview with Grace in the spring issue of “Garden Times.”

Add Pizzazz to Holiday Decor Same Ole’

Jazzed up

Round wreaths

Alter shapes using oval, square or rectangular wreath forms, or recycle picture frames with glass and backing removed.

Magnolia / spruce swags

Experiment with different greenery: cedar, ivy, boxwood, balsam, juniper, etc. (related Great Holiday Evergreens Sale, page 5).

Holiday-tree tinsel

Naturalize with fresh-cut ivy vines inserted in small water-filled floral tubes and zip-tied discreetly within tree branches (tip from René van Rems, European-trained floral designer).

Silk flowers

Decorate with dried or fresh culinary favorites: artichokes, cherry peppers, quince segments, orange slices, herbs.

Holiday theme

Revert to a nature theme, such as silk birds, mini birdhouses, tiny nests, berry garland.

Front door garland

Add drama with a decorated 8-foot “walk-through wreath” that frames the entryway.

Bright Spots

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Colchicum (Colchicum ‘Waterlily’) Exquisite autumnal blooms

American Beautyberry (Callicarpa americana)

Gingerbread house

Craft a botanical fairy house instead (related classes, page 8).

Vibrant berries through mid-winter

The white oak (Quercus alba) was recognized by the Virginia Native Plant Society as the 2011 Wildflower of the Year. Stately, strong and prominent in Virginia, some white oaks have been known to live for hundreds of years.

Image from Seeing Trees: Discover the Extraordinary Secrets of Everyday Trees, photography by Robert Llewellyn, text

by Nancy Ross Hugo.

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10/25/11 11:23 AM

Garden Calendar november

* Free for members and included with Garden admission

Splendor Under Glass Gala “Joie de Vivre” Saturday, 19...............................6:30PM Black-tie fundraiser with cocktail buffet, live music & dancing.

Ticketed event. Proceeds benefit Garden’s horticultural & educational mission. Online fundraising auction open to the public.

See pages 5-8 for GardenFest Activities & Events Nov. 25, 2011–Jan. 9, 2012

Wednesday–Friday, 8–10......................

Details page 8.

Valentine’s Tea House Dining BRUNCH: Saturday, 11 and Sunday, 12 . ....................................11:30AM–2:30PM DINNER: Tuesday, 14....................5–8PM Conservatory open. Includes Garden admission.

Reservations taken starting Jan. 3: (804) 262-9887, ext. 329. Also regular lunch hours on Tuesday.

MARC WEISS

Lora M. Robins Library* Through 2011 “Twisted Logic” documentary about sculptor Patrick Dougherty’s work.

Regular Library hours; not after 5PM during GardenFest.

march Scan This

to see the online auction items. You can bid, too!

Bids taken Nov. 19-Dec. 12.

March Madness Daily, 1–31..............................................

15% member discounts in the Garden Shop, Cafe & Tea House.

Garden Closed for Holiday

Don Williamson

THURSDAY, 24..........................................

Champagne ’n’ Shopping

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Winter Symposium & CVNLA Short Course

Thursday, 10...............................5–8PM Pre-holiday shopping event greets guests with glass of champagne or sparkling cider, live music & door prizes. Featuring local artist Ellen Pinnow’s stylish, yet affordable, decorative lapel/scarf pins crafted from fabric, jewels & feathers.

Member discount on purchases.

Holly Jolly Christmas on Lakeside Avenue

december Virginia Orchid Society SUNDAY, 11.............................................. ........... ROBINS ROOM, VISITORS CENTER Plant Sale....................................12–1PM Plant Auction of Remaining Plants....1–3PM Cash or check only.

february

Don Williamson

Orchids Galore!* Daily, March 10–April 22......9AM–5PM Masses of magnificent orchids dazzle with beauty, color & fragrance.

Regular Garden admission.

BRAD ALSTON

Friday, 11.....................................5–9PM Lakeside merchants & Garden Shop stay open late for holiday shopping.

Richmond Horticultural Association meets at the Garden the first Monday of the month, October– December and February–May. Visitors welcome.

Contact Judy Hodges, (434) 581-1547.

Celebrating 60 years in 2012!

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Men’s “Beer-nPretzels” Holiday Shopping

A Million Blooms*

New!

Wednesday, 16............................5–8PM ........................................... Garden Shop Pre-holiday shopping night for men, featuring personal shoppers, free gift-wrap service for purchases, pretzels & a complimentary beer or non-alcoholic beverage.

The Garden Is For Lovers* Daily, 1–29.....................Conservatory West Wing: Colorful Valentine’s display of blooming beauty.

East Wing: Spectacular collection of tropicals & orchids.

Daily, March 10–June 3.........9AM–5PM Spring blooms by the millions with special events & activities.

Regular Garden admission.

10/25/11 11:23 AM

GardenFest Calendar

Post this schedule for quick reference during the holidays or visit www.lewisginter.org.

Dominion GardenFest of Lights Nightly, Nov. 25, 2011–Jan. 9, 2012................................5–10PM Closed Dec. 24 & 25

Holiday tradition features more than a half-million lights, botanical decorations, trains, holiday dinners, family activities and more!

See http://bit.ly/gardenfest for additional details.

Presenting Sponsor:

Patricia cancro

Recurring Events

Don Williamson

Children’s GardenFest Adventures Children’s Garden................... 5–10PM S’more toasting at the firepit, challenging maze, fanciful characters & bird’s-eye views from the CWD Kids Tree House. Warm beverages & light snacks for purchase from Espresso-A-Go-Go. S’mores by purchase, weather permitting.

Merry Mondays Library Reading Room............... 5–8PM Story time fireside with the Garden Keeper & visits by the Butterfly Fairy (Mondays, 5:30, 6:30 & 7:30 p.m.). “Santa sightings” in the Conservatory (Mondays, 6–8 p.m. through Dec. 19).

GardenFest admission required.

Caroling Tuesdays Throughout the Garden...... 6–7:30PM Barbershop quartets from the “Virginians” (Richmond Chapter of the Barbershop Harmony Society) perform at various Garden locations & invite guests to join in the caroling.

Musical Thursdays Library......................................... 6–8PM Acoustic musicians provide festive entertainment.

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november

FREE Member Nights Monday–Wednesday, 28, 29, 30............ ...................................................5–10PM Exclusive member benefit (these dates only).

Free admission & access to the Bloemendaal House, festooned as an early 19th-century holiday showcase with handcrafted botanical decorations, antiques, memorabilia & live music.

Members may buy up to 4 extra tickets at member pricing (valid that Member Night only).

Don Williamson

Great Holiday Evergreens Sale

Dominion GardenFest Illumination Friday, 25................................................

Doors open.....................................5PM. Illumination Ceremony............5:30PM The Garden Keeper flips the switch to “turn on the lights” & lasers set to music dance across the night sky for an electric performance of enchanting visions & animation! Laser show continues till 6PM. GardenFest admission required.

Presenting Sponsor: Dominion.

Don Williamson

december GardenFest for Fidos

Brad Alston

BLING House Friday, Saturday, Monday, 25, 26, 28..... ..................................................... 5–10PM ..........Children’s Garden Greenhouse “Bling” in the holidays with LED light-up necklaces, rings & wands.

Items for sale.

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Thursday, 1 & 8.........................5–10PM Holiday strolls with fido & friends.

Pet must be leashed.

GardenFest admission required; suggested $2 pet admission benefits Richmond SPCA.

Saturday, 3.............................................

Evergreens Sale*....................12–2PM. ................................. West Parking Lot Free demo of holiday ideas with evergreens*.................10:30–11:45AM Select unusual greens, berries & cones harvested from the Garden’s collection, or purchase ready-made wreaths & swags.

Volunteers available to help with selections. *For purchase while supplies last.

No admission required.

Proceeds benefit Garden’s educational programs.

See page 8 for details about free demonstration preceding sale.

Saturday Brunch with Santa Saturday, 3, 10 & 17................................

FULL .............................10AM & 1PM Seatings Reservations required. Details page 5.

Presenting Sponsor: Meriwether Godsey

BLING House Fridays & Saturdays, 2, 3 & 9, 10......... ...................................................5–10PM Nightly, 16–23 & 29–31.............5–10PM ........ Children’s Garden Greenhouse See November listing for details.

GardenFest Calendar cont’d next page

10/25/11 11:23 AM

GardenFest at a Glance GardenFest Calendar cont’d Greater Richmond Children’s Choir Sunday, 11.......................................4PM ........... Education & Library Complex,. ............................................Auditorium Special performance for visitors’ enjoyment.

Included with regular GardenFest admission.

GardenFest Dinner with Santa Sunday–Wednesday....................................

18, 19, 20, 21 (only)..............5:30–7:30PM ............Education & Library Complex. ............................................Auditorium Reservations required. Details in Holiday Dining section.

Exhibits Holiday Tree Conservatory, North Wing Nature is the inspiration for this year’s Holiday Tree, offering a charming backdrop for family photos.

Conservatory, Cottage Wing The Old Tree, Ruth Brown’s delightful tale of cooperation and conservation, is set deep in the forest with woodland characters galore!

Conservatory, East Wing Magnificent orchids offer fragrance and beauty.

Railroad Exhibit Conservatory, North Wing Toy trains travel through miniature forests embellished with fairy house botanicals and fanciful wildlife.

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Garden Closed for Holiday Saturday, 24 & Sunday, 25....................

New Year’s Eve Family Frolic Saturday, December 31.................. 2–5PM ............ Education & Library Complex Family fun in the afternoon with the “Ululating Mummies,” 2012 wishes, makeand-take crafts & the “Rolling in the New Year” hillside tumble.

Free with regular admission; free for members.

Family Frolic visitors may stay for GardenFest at no additional charge.

january GardenFest for Fidos Thursday, 5...............................5–10PM See December listing for details.

FREE Member Night Monday, 9..................................5–10PM See November listing for details.

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Brad Alston

Railroad Exhibit Education & Library Complex, Classroom 2 More model trains to entertain all ages!

Special thanks to the Virginia Train Collectors (VTC) whose focus is O, S, G and HO gauge toy trains manufactured from 1920 to present. Contact John Exley, (804) 746-1946 or www.vatraincollectors.com

Holiday Trees Education & Library Complex, Corridor Decorative trees showcase artistic ornaments inspired by nature and crafted by elementary students through collaboration with Henrico County Public Schools art educators.

“Unique Creations Inspired by Nature” Lora M. Robins Library Beautiful botanical decorations and a cozy fire in the Reading Room make the Library a must-see destination.

Tours GardenFest of Lights Early Bird Tour November 29–January 9, 4:30PM by reservation Be an “Early Bird” and reserve your spot NOW for your private group of 15-40 adults to enjoy an early-evening exploration of Dominion GardenFest of Lights. Led by knowledgeable Garden Guides, your group will delight in the unique, handcrafted botanical decorations, experience the nostalgia of model trains and be cheered by lavish holiday Don williamson displays. Then as darkness falls, you’ll see the region’s most magical light show glow bright!

For tour only, call (804) 262-9887, ext. 322. For tour with group dining (begins 4PM), contact Facility Events at ext. 345 or 224. Tours start at the Robins Visitors Center.

10/25/11 11:23 AM

GARDEN CAFE Regular hours: Daily, 10AM–4PM Casual, yet inviting setting with home-style soups, salad bar and sandwiches.

GardenFest of Lights: Daily, 10AM–8:30PM, including New Year’s Eve. Closed Nov. 24, Dec. 24, 25 & Jan. 10–15.

TEA HOUSE Regular hours: Daily, 11:30AM–2:30PM Savor gourmet meals and fine wines with enchanting views of the Asian Valley.

GardenFest of Lights: Daily, 11:30AM–2:30PM & 5–9PM, including New Year’s Eve. Reservations strongly suggested: (804) 262-9887, ext. 329.

GardenFest admission required. Closed Nov. 24, Dec. 24, 25 & Jan. 2–31.

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Lots of ways to share!

• YouTube: Film a favorite GardenFest setting or memory and it may be featured on Lewis Ginter’s YouTube channel.

Email JonahH@lewisginter.org for details.

• Facebook, Twitter, Flickr: Join the GardenFest conversation or post your own photos at www.lewisginter.org/community/ • Yelp: See why people love GardenFest or share your own experience at GardenFest of Lights at http://bit.ly/YelpGardenFest • Garden Website: Share on our “Guest Photos and Comments” page at www.lewisginter.org.

Tickets & Admission

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GardenFest Dinner with Santa December 18, 19, 20, 21 (only) Auditorium (semi-private) 5:30–7:30PM Festive holiday meal features Santa’s visit. Menu and package pricing posted on GardenFest page at www.lewisginter.org.

Limited seating; reservations required: (804) 262-9887, ext. 224 or 345.

Includes GardenFest admission. Cameras welcome.

Social Media

of Lights

Saturday Brunch with Santa Saturdays, December 3, 10, 17 Robins Room F (semi-private) ULL Seatings at 10AM & 1PM Holiday brunch with kid-friendly favorites and opportunity to share “wish lists” with Santa!

Limited seating; reservations required: (804) 262-9887, ext. 329 (started October 1). Includes Garden admission. Cameras welcome. Presenting Sponsor: Meriwether Godsey.

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GardenFest Dinner Sundays–Tuesdays, Nov. 27–Jan. 9 Robins Room (semi-private) Seatings at 5:30 & 7:30PM Delightful holiday dining option for groups of 15 people or more.

Menu and package pricing posted on GardenFest page at www.lewisginter.org. Limited seating; reservations required: (804) 262-9887, ext. 224 or 345. Includes GardenFest admission.

Through Nov. 23 M on.–Sat..................... 10AM–5PM Sun..................................... 1–5PM Nov. 25–Jan. 9 Mon.–Sat....................10AM–10PM Sun................................... 1–10PM Closed Nov. 24, Dec. 24 & 25 for holidays. Closed Jan. 10-20 for annual inventory. Details page 12.

ADULT

HOLIDAY DINING EVENTS

ad m it

Meriwether Godsey’s holiday dining options are as varied as their menus!

See page 10 for additional facility events information.

Garden Shop

VALID FOR Any one (1) ADMISSION (1) nigh t during GardenFe st

Holiday Dining

of lights

of lights

gardenfest

A memorable evening at an exceptional value! Purchase GardenFest tickets at the Admissions desk, online at www.lewisginter.org or call 1-800-594-TIXX. Membership information required for member pricing.

Tickets ordered online and by phone incur nominal service charge with pick up at “Will Call” in the Visitors Center.

Adult...............................................................................................$11 Senior.............................................................................................$10 Member.............................................................................................$5 Child (ages 3–12)..............................................................................$7 Child on Membership (ages 3-18)....................................................$4 Child (under age 3)......................................................................FREE Member on Member Nights.........................................................FREE

Scan This Scan this to see Dominion’s YouTube video about holiday lighting the energy-smart way.

10/25/11 11:23 AM

Education Adult Education Classes

T

he Garden’s Adult & Family Education & Events Catalog for January– April 2012 will be mailed to member households and published as a “Style Weekly” insert on December 7. Programs subject to change.

Upcoming seasonal highlights follow. Details, fees and registration at: http://bit.ly/LGBGeducation; ext. 322; or registrar@lewisginter.org.

Making a fairy House Saturday, Nov. 12...............................

FU LL 9AM–NOON, Adult + Child Saturday, Nov. 12...............................

1:30PM–4:30PM, Adult + Child Saturday, Dec. 10..............................

9AM–NOON, Adults Only Craft a whimsical fairy house— like those in GardenFest train displays—using dried natural materials. Guided by horticulturist Shannon Smith.

Great Greens: Working with Garden Evergreens for Holiday Decorations Saturday, Dec. 3.......................................................................... 10:30–11:45AM Conditioning, care and arrangement of fresh evergreens.

Free demonstration by volunteer Debbe Peck.

No registration. Evergreens Sale follows at Noon (details page 5).

Library

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T

he Lora M. Robins Library beckons you as wintry weather moves you indoors. Browse our collections, launch some research, pick out a storybook for your youngster, or participate in the following opportunity.

Botanical Book Club Dec. 9 & 2nd Friday Every Other Month....................11AM–NOON Library Reading Room Reading enthusiasts meet to discuss group-selected books.

Details at (804) 262-9887, ext. 334; on the Garden’s Facebook page; or by email request at library@lewisginter.org. Garden membership suggested, though not required.

Student Benefits from Partnership with VCU Graduate School

J

ames Walker is serving a two-year graduate assistantship at the Garden while completing his master’s degree at Virginia Commonwealth University with a concentration in design/visual communications. Walker’s duties include planning, scheduling and installing exhibits in the Ginter Gallery II in the Education and Library Complex, and assisting with other Garden installations and special exhibits as needed.

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SAVE THE DATE IN 2012 Winter Symposium & CVNLA Short Course “Treading Lightly on the Land” Feb. 8, 9, 10............................................................................................ 8AM–4PM Annual winter symposium for green business owners, landscape architects, designers, master gardeners and seasoned home gardeners. Featuring a rich roster of innovative writers, designers, researchers and practitioners who, through presentations and networking opportunities, share how to achieve balanced ecology in the landscape. $40 per day, including coffee and lunch.

Net proceeds help build CVNLA’s scholarship fund for students pursuing horticultural careers. Earn continuing education hours; update pesticide certification (Friday). Presented

by Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden, Central Virginia Nursery and Landscape Association, and Virginia Cooperative Extension.

Educator Workshops: Using the School Grounds as a Classroom “What to Plant / What to Teach” Feb. 14............................................................................................... 4–6:30PM “Completing the Cycle” May 15............................................................................................... 4–6:30PM Technical information, lesson plans and outdoor teaching techniques. $21/workshop ($10/workshop for members).

Tree Care Symposium March 1....................................................................................... 8:30AM–3:30PM

Thanks to David Pippin and his holiday floral-design class at J. Sargeant Reynolds Community College, who decorated the Bloemendaal House dining room and Robins Room for GardenFest festivity.

10/25/11 11:23 AM

d

Volunteer Opportunities

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VOLUNTEER ORIENTATIONS Attendance is required.

Wednesday, Nov. 9 6:30–7:30PM

NEW Volunteer Orientation

7:30–8:30PM

ALL GardenFest Volunteers OR

Saturday, Nov. 12

f

9:30-10:30AM

NEW Volunteer Orientation

10:30-11:30AM

ALL GardenFest Volunteers

Volunteers: Our Holiday Heroes!

The first hour of each session is for all NEW

C

volunteers and features an overview of the

elebrate the season in a rich, rewarding way as a GardenFest volunteer. It’s easy—simply select the location and opportunities that match your interests, schedule a few shifts or a standing commitment, and attend an orientation session (required). Again this year, approximately 1,000 volunteer slots are open and 1,700 volunteer hours are needed, so please confirm your participation today.

When d Date(s) of your choice between Nov. 26–Jan. 9 (excluding Dec. 24 & 25)

d

Shift(s) of your choice, either 4–7PM or 7–10PM

e

Opportunities d Admissions—For the extrovert who likes to welcome visitors, distribute tickets, answer questions and assist with directions.

Assigned locations at the Garden entrance door, hallways and “Will Call” table as needed.

d C onservatory—For the volunteer who is interested in offering to take photos of guests at the Holiday Tree, fountain or train display, and willing to alert staff to issues such as train stoppage.

d

Library—For the volunteer who enjoys greeting and interacting with guests, discussing the botanical decorations, describing the Library’s resources or inviting folks to enjoy the fireplace’s warmth.

d

ducation & Library Complex—For the volunteer willing to E assist the Virginia Train Collectors as they operate the train exhibit.

d C hildren’s Garden—For the individual who likes to be outside maintaining the firepit and interacting with guests.

d B LING House in Children’s Garden—For those who enjoy the spirit of the season and are willing to help “kids of all ages” select and purchase light-up souvenirs.

Benefits d One free admission to GardenFest of Lights for working a three-hour shift on Friday, Saturday or Sunday.

d

Holiday fun … plus satisfaction from meaningful community service!

Garden. The second hour is for ALL GardenFest volunteers with a focus on the holiday theme, displays, events, emergency procedures and positive visitor interactions.

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Funding Nature-Based Education

E

arlier this year, the Seltzer Family Fund for Nature-Based Education was established by a gift to the Garden’s endowment from Marjorie L. Seltzer in memory of her brother, Richard “Dick” Seltzer, a long-time Garden volunteer with a lifelong love of gardening. During his teaching career, Dick Seltzer developed the horticultural department at the Chesterfield Technical Center and encouraged students to pursue further education in botany, environmental education and the green industries.

The Seltzer Family Fund for Nature-Based Education supports professional development opportunities for Virginia educators to help them become more skilled in using the natural world as a powerful learning environment. The fund enables Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden to develop and present professional training programs—such as workshops, seminars and symposia—that build appreciation for the human–plant connection and expand knowledge of nature-based teaching resources, techniques and networks. Through this visionary funding, the Seltzer family will impact horticultural education for years to come!

Perhaps your family is interested in establishing a legacy fund?

For information, please contact Jennifer Little at (804) 262-9887, ext. 337.

Contact d D arlene Van Laan at volunteers@lewisginter.org. or (804) 262-9887, ext. 335.

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10/25/11 11:23 AM

Catered Events & Staff Recognition Don Williamson

Holiday Catered Events During GardenFest, corporate meetings and private parties enjoy not only elegantly decorated facilities and scrumptious fare, but also GardenFest of Lights admission!

Information at www.lewisginter.org, (804) 262-9887, ext. 224 or 345 or facilityevents@lewisginter.org.

NOTE: Reduced winter rental rates apply to daytime events December–March, and evening events January 10–March.

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Staff Recognition Restructuring Readies Garden for the Future In October 2011, William (Bill) King, Jr., president of the Board of Directors, announced that Frank Robinson had assumed the title of president and CEO of Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden. In his new role, Frank’s focus is development activities, long-term planning, partnerships and visioning for the institution. Shane Tippett, formerly the assistant executive director for finance and operations, assumed the role of executive director with responsibility for all daily operations, staffing and financial activity of the Garden.

Congratulations to Garden staff who celebrated service milestones during 2011: 15 Years Patricia Crone

5 Years Mabel Brock Elizabeth Fogel Laura Henley Chi Chi Shaw

Kudos to other staff members who are serving their community through outreach and volunteer activities: Erin Wright, Children’s Garden educator/youth volunteer programs, was appointed to the City of Richmond’s new food policy task force to advise the administration on how to increase access to local and fresh food.

Kelly Riley, children’s education coordinator, serves on the Career and Technical Education Advisory Council for the Richmond Technical Center.

Shane Tippett (l) and Frank Robinson (r)

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10/25/11 11:24 AM

Sharing the Garden & Annual Fund Making Memories by Sharing the Garden

Don Williamson

T

he holidays are a season of sharing, and this extends to Garden visitors as well. Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden has a “Sharing the Garden” program that provides free passes to groups from need-based organizations. Some of these passes are made available by sponsors such as Dominion, title sponsor of GardenFest.

Don Williamson

Last year Mary Arginteanu with the Richmond Audubon Society (RAS) helped bring 40 schoolchildren to GardenFest through this program. The schoolchildren, ages third through fifth grade, would not have been able to visit otherwise. “It was an exciting experience for the children, their parents and the teachers, and it really built bonds for us as a group,” she wrote. The field trip exposed the youngsters to the natural world and supported the RAS motto, “No child left inside.” Arginteanu noted that “coming to GardenFest was an experience the children will remember for a very long time.”

Don Williamson

Brad Alston

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Annual Fund Nets Significant Returns

W

here are you assured a solid return on your investment?

Lewis Ginter’s Annual Fund, where your contribution supports horticulture education, environmental stewardship, cultural opportunities and more.

Your Annual Fund gift will help: • M aintain our gardens, programs, exhibits, and facilities—core elements that make Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden one of the most fascinating public gardens on the East Coast.

• S ustain our environment and teach the next generation about stewardship of natural resources.

• C omplement the Annual Fund donations given by 100% of our Board of Directors.

• B enefit future visitors—including you, your family, and your community.

GLUE STRIP

I would like to give a restricte d gift of $

annual fund

to the Garden’s Circle of Please select a key mission area Friends Giving Program. for your restricted gift. ❑ Friends of Education ❑ Friends of Horticulture ❑ Friends of the Conservatory ❑ Friends of the Library ❑ Friends of the Children’s Garden I would like to give an unrestric ted Annual Fund Gift of $ Please check one: ❑I

decline benefits and will receive full tax deduction. ❑ I would like to receive gift club benefits and recognize that a portion of my gift is not tax deductible.

PAYMENT INFORMATION: Total of gift(s) from above $

Method of payment:

❑ VISA

❑ MASTERCA RD

❑ CHECK (Payable to Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden)

MASTERCARD / VISA NUM BER

❑ ❑

E X P I R AT I O N D AT E

I am interested in receiving information on Planned Giving.

I am employed by a company that has a matching gifts program

. I have enclosed a matching gift form.

NAME

ADDRESS

CITY

HOME PHONE

STATE

ZIP

BUSINESS PHONE

EMAIL ADDRESS

Thank you for helping Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden to realize its three-fold mission: horticultural display and botanica public education, l research.

Gifts to Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden, Inc., a 501(c) (3) organization, are tax deductible as permitted by law. are provided to the donor as a result No goods or services of this gift.

Please use the enclosed envelope to mail your 2011 Annual Fund gift, or donate online at www.lewisginter.org then click Donate.

Accomplishing our mission begins with YOU!

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10/25/11 11:24 AM

Non-Profit Organization U S Postage

PAID

Permit 520 Richmond, VA 1800 lakeside avenue richmond va, 23228-4700 (804) 262-9887 www.lewisginter.org

Don Williamson

Winter: “When the bold branches bid farewell to rainbow leaves…”

—B. Cybrill

Holiday Shopping

Garden Shop = Easy parking + endless variety + valuable member discount!

Don Williamson 2011

11LGB2234_Winter11_NL_r5.indd 1

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10/25/11 11:23 AM