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The Myriad Gardens Foundation wishes to thank our sustaining partners, leaders in providing major ongoing annual support:

BancFirst

The Chickasaw Nation

Continental Resources

Devon Energy Corporation

Herman and LaDonna Meinders

Newmark Grubb Levy Strange Beffort

OGE Energy Corp.

The Oklahoman

Oklahoma City Economic Development Trust

The City of Oklahoma City

Join these community leaders as a partner with Myraid Botanical Gardens and you will be connected to one of Oklahoma’s venerable community resources

MISSION STATEMENT

The Myriad Gardens Foundation is a 501(c)3 organization which manages and supports the Myriad Botanical Gardens by providing capital and operating funding, increasing public awareness and support and promoting the highest of horticultural, education and administrative standards.

On the cover:

Seed pods from the Golden Rain Tree (Koelreuteria paniculata) on the east side of the Geometric beds.

Photo by Carl Shortt, Jr.

Myriad

Gardens Foundation

Executive Board of Directors

Chairman

J. Larry Nichols*

Chair Emeritus

James R. Tolbert III*

Treasurer

Matt Cole*

Mark Beffort

Peter Delaney

John Hart

Herman Meinders

Gary Pierson

David Rainbolt

Lynn Robberson*

Meg Salyer*

Myriad Gardens Foundation Staff

Executive Director

Maureen Heffernan

Chief Financial Officer

Chuck Davis

Deputy Director

Debora Morey

*Also a Community Board Member

Community Board Members

Lynn Robberson, President

Brian Alford

Robert Allee

Gerry Bonds

Lindsey Brock

Bob Calvert

Matt Cole

Irma Elliott

James Everest

Dr. Warren V. Filley

Charles L. Freede

Ginny Greenberg

Cary Grenrock

Linda Haneborg

Seyan Hefner

Dannie Bea Hightower

Linda Horn

Gail Huneryager

Dixie Jensen

Michael Laird

Paul Lefebvre

Jean McLaughlin

Robert Meinders

Jim Morley

Allen Paine

Morton Payne

Kent Phillips

James. A. Pickel

D. Joe Rockett

Avis Scaramucci

Wendi Schuur

Kim Searls

Marsha See

Carl Shortt, Jr.

Terry Taylor

Beth Wells

Roy H. Williams

3 PUMPKINVILLE

DEAR MEMBERS & GARDENS FRIENDS

At Myriad Botanical Gardens, we hear countless visitors express how amazing all the changes have been to the Gardens over the last several years. Hearing these comments further inspires us to keep improving and innovating.

A nascent trend that is spreading throughout urban public gardens and parks is installation of more naturalized plantings. It’s designing plantings to look as if they grew naturally in the site. In some cases, the space is literally left to grow completely naturally letting nature be its designer and curator.

With the installation of our Prairie Garden this summer by our terrific horticulture staff, we changed an area of the gardens near the dog park that had an aesthetically and ecologically bland shrub monoculture and transformed it into an urban Prairie Garden for visitors to see and learn about native prairie plants. These are also important plants that provide sustenance to pollinators such as honey bees and monarch butterflies, whose numbers are declining in many areas. Walking through the prairie this afternoon, I counted over a dozen monarch butterflies where last year at this time, there were likely none.

The beautiful combinations of grasses and flowers provides visitors with a close up hint of experiencing a natural prairie in Oklahoma. The “eco- shaggy chicness” of this urban prairie is enriching. We hope to educate people that a garden can come in many forms and a looser, more naturalistic design can be as, or even more, appealing and ecologically richer than more formal designs. The Prairie Garden was designed by Julie Moir Messervy, an internationally acclaimed landscape designer and author. Julie is well-known for her innovative Music Garden in Toronto Canada that she designed in partnership with the cellist Yo Yo Ma.

Other exciting horticultural improvements this year include the installation of hundreds of new plants to fill in and diversify our Meinders Garden, Children’s Garden, Lakeside slopes and Geometric beds which are located in the southeast corner of the Gardens. These beds now showcase drought tolerant plants and provide creative ideas for plant combinations. Another new kind of ‘planting’ is our delightful new Tulip chairs recently installed in the Children’s Garden. Direct from The Netherlands, the world capital of tulips, they will bloom year-round. To further use our plant collections for education, Dr. Ann Fleener, our Director of Education, has developed a self-guided and/or docent-led walking tour of our outdoor gardens debuting this fall.

Our continuous improvements are only possible due to the support we receive from you, our members and donors. Thank you for your continued support.

Sincerely,

Maureen Heffernan Executive Director

The

“eco- shaggy chicness” of this urban prairie is, for me, enriching.

Maureen Heffernan

Prairie Garden. Photo by Doug Hoke.

Pumpkinville, presented by OGE Energy Corporation

The 4th annual Pumpkinville is scheduled for Oct 9-25

Pumpkinville transforms our Children’s Garden into a pumpkin wonderland with 11,000 pumpkins, hundreds of brightly colored mums, corn stalks and creative, hand-made décor to celebrate the fall.

Thank you to our sponsors: OGE Energy Corporation, Express Employment Professionals, Delta Dental, E.L. and Thelma Gaylord Foundation and Allied Arts.

PUMPKINVILLE EVENTS

Truly Tasty Pumpkins

Saturday, October 10, 11am–Noon Pavilion

Free ($2 suggested donation per child) Best for ages 4-10

Pumpkins offer more than great fall décor, they’re tasty treats too! Discover some of the delicious things you can make with pumpkin from classic pumpkin pie to pumpkin pancakes. We’ll also talk about pumpkin seeds and send kids home with their own spiced pumpkin seeds to bake.

Cider Press Demonstration

and Tasting

Friday, October 9, 16 and 23, 1–1:30pm Pavilion

Free ($1 suggested donation per participant)

Learn how cider is made as we try out our old-fashioned cider press each Friday during Pumpkinville. Join in on the cider making and enjoy a taste of this delicious juice at the end.

Painting in the Gardens Series with Wine and Palette

Saturday, October 10, 11am-2pm

Pavilion Lawn

M $10; please call (405) 227-0230 to register and receive your discounted rate. Non-members $20; please register online at wineandpalette.com

All ages; walk-ups welcome if not sold out

Wine and Palette instructors will allow you to paint your own pumpkin. This is the last one of the year’s series. Participants will be given instruction and shown the steps to create a unique and personal work of art.

Story Time at the Pumpkinville Library

Saturday, October 10, 17 & 24, 1–1:30pm The Library inside Pumpkinville FREE with admission to Pumpkinville Best for ages 4-9

Enjoy spooky, ghostly, mysterious, and even funny stories each Saturday during Pumpkinville. Stories include Little Goblins Ten by Pamela Jane, A Witch Got on At Paddington Station by Dyan Sheldon, and There Was an Old Monster by Ed Emberly.

Why Do Leaves Change Colors?

Saturday, October 24, 1 – 2pm Pavilion

Free ($2 suggested donation per child) Best for ages 5-9

Ever wonder why the trees shed their green for more colorful hues in the fall? Join us as we explore why leaves change when the temperatures drop and what makes them green in the first place. We’ll finish with a hands-on painting craft that captures the natural magic of color-changing leaves!

Pumpkinville Halloween Party: Garden Monster Bash sponsored by Paycom and Soccer City

Saturday, October 24, 6-8pm

Children’s Garden

M $7 per child/$5 per adult

NM $10 per child; $8 per adult

Pre-registration requested by October 19

The monsters at this Halloween party are definitely more friendly than frightening. Join us for ghoulish garden games, eerie entertainment and spook-alicious treats. There will be prizes for those who don their creepy, crawly and cute costumes. Space is limited so reserve early by registering online at myriadgardens.org.

Presented by October 9-25

*10am-5pm Daily

Children’s Garden

Halloween Party: GARDEN MONSTER Bash

Jim Morley to be honored at Orchids in October

Thursday, October 15, 11:30am

The Board of Directors is pleased to announce James R. Morley as the 2015 recipient of the James R. Tolbert III Crystal Orchid Award. This annual award is a tribute to those individuals who significantly impact the beauty and success of the Myriad Botanical Gardens and Oklahoma City. This celebration will be held on Thursday, October 15, with registration commencing at 11:30 and the program beginning at noon on the Water Stage, followed by a luncheon in the McGee Education Center.

floral business, Jim joined American Floral Services in Oklahoma City where he was instrumental in developing the education program that AFS became well known for. Years later when American Floral Service was sold to Teleflora he retired; however, he was asked by Teleflora to continue to serve as Vice President Emeritus to represent the company in industry and civic events which he did for 15 years.

He has supported the Gardens since 2005 with passion, vision, understanding and great wit. He often provides extraordinary floral displays for many of the events at the Myriad Gardens which are always beautiful, creative and colorful.

Jim’s love of flowers and plants has been a lifelong affair. He studied Floriculture at Michigan State University after which he opened and operated his own florist shop in St. Louis. After 21 years in the

ORCHID SALE

Thursday, October 15, 9am-5pm South Lobby of the Crystal Bridge.

Nate Tschaenn, Conservatory Specialist, will be available 11:30am to answer any questions.

Ticket prices are $75; sponsorship levels begin at $250. For more information, or to receive an invitation please call (405) 445-7084.

Jim Morley. Photo by Carl Shortt Jr.

DONOR SPOTLIGHT

Richard and Glenna Tanenbaum

Dancing in the Gardens Sponsorship Brings Joy to Many!

Long time donors of the Myriad Botanical Gardens, Richard “Dick” and Glenna Tanenbaum are well known in Oklahoma City as generous philanthropists and community leaders. The Tanenbaums were major donors to the Gardens’ 25th Anniversary celebration and to “Splendor”, the elegant but casual seated dinner fundraiser in support of programs and operations.

Most recently, the Tanenbaums underwrote the new “Dancing in the Gardens” series. The series offered monthly demonstrations and free lessons and included Salsa, Country & Western, and Swing. “Dancing in the Gardens” quickly became a favorite activity with more than 500 people in attendance. Many of the participants requested that the Gardens continue to offer the dancing series as an annual program. We look forward to meeting this demand in 2016 each month, May through October.

The Tanenbaums are very active in many local organizations and non-profits including the Oklahoma City Philharmonic and the Oklahoma City Orchestra League, the Greater Oklahoma City Chamber of Commerce, Oklahoma City University, the Jewish Federation of Greater Oklahoma City, Downtown Rotary, Allied Arts Foundation, and the Commercial Real Estate Council.

Gardner Tanenbaum Holdings sponsored three Dancing in the Gardens events on the Seasonal Plaza by Ice House. We saw hundreds of men, women, children, grandparents, and more participate. July’s featured Salsa dancing; for August we celebrated our Country & Western roots; and in September we went back in time to honor the way they REALLY used to dance with Swing! Dancing in the Gardens was such a hit, we’ll announce a new series for next season.

Glenna Tanenbaum is an Oklahoma City native, while Richard was born in Havana, Cuba. Glenna has been involved in charitable work throughout her life with a strong passion for music. Richard is a successful businessman in commercial real estate, and a leader at the Oklahoma City Chamber of Commerce.

When not in Oklahoma City, the Tanenbaums can usually be found at their home in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico.

Thank you Dick and Glenna. You have made the Gardens come alive with dance!

Dick and Glenna Tanenbaum participate in Dancing in the Gardens’ dance lessons. Photo by M. Tim Blake.

Photo by Doug Hoke

Photo by M. Tim Blake

Photo by Doug Hoke

Horticulture Happenings

By Casey Sharber, Director of Horticulture

It is said that a farmer has about 40 growing seasons in which they can do their best work. Meaning a farmer has 40 opportunities to improve their harvest from one year to the next. In our case here at Myriad Gardens, each year we learn something new and work to improve the Gardens to make the visitors’ experience even better.

This past year, we worked hard to achieve many lasting improvements in the gardens. Months of planning helped us achieve several project goals during a very limited and heavily scheduled time period – spring!

GREAT LAWN TREES

One of the first projects we undertook was to replace the 48 trees on the Great Lawn. Originally planted with Shantung hybrid maple trees that were suffering from a condition called Southwest injury, we replaced them with ‘Green Vase’ Zelkovas. Finding 48 large trees that looked similar in size was no easy feat and involved a nationwide search. After sourcing some larger ones in Georgia and some slightly smaller ones here locally we decided to go with the local ones, knowing that a local tree is more resistant to local conditions (weather, insects, disease, etc.) and that a slightly smaller tree would handle transplanting better than a larger tree. Tree anchoring systems were also purchased in advance in order to stabilize the newly planted trees without the imposing stakes and guywires that you often see on newly planted trees.

We are happy to report that all the trees are doing well and will continue to provide more shade along the sidewalks and perimeter of the Great Lawn for years to come.

PRAIRIE GARDEN

Many of the plants for this garden were pre-ordered in 2014 and while often prairies are seeded when being established we wanted a more immediate impact and planted larger rooted plants. The grasses that were a bit easier to source were mainly in 1 gallon containers but went up to five gallon containers, while the wide array of herbaceous flowering perennials were mainly two inch plugs, quarts, or one gallon containers. There are pros and cons to a small plant verses a larger plant including cost and ease of planting, but the biggest factor is the watering and with such a mix of plant sizes it was even more critical to be cautious not to let the small plugs dry out in such a large planting bed. Fortunately for us, we got the prairie and pollinator garden planted the first week of May and it seemed to rain every few days after for the rest of the month.

We are very excited about this new garden and if you look at it now you would never guess that some of those plants started out as plugs not much larger than your thumb. The butterflies do not seem to notice and seem to be loving their new home.

The Prairie Garden would not be possible without the generous support of the Kirkpatrick Family Fund and Stanley Smith Horticultural Trust.

Pictured left: Black Eyed Susan. Rudbeckia subtomenntosa, Henry Eilers. Photo by Doug Hoke.

GEO BEDS

After the installation of the Prairie and Pollinator Garden we wanted to improve the connection to the nearby Geo Beds located on the southeast corner of the gardens by showing how to incorporate many of the same native pollinator plants into a more designed landscape. Using the existing plants and adding more natives and pollinator plants, these beds were redesigned to improve the garden displays. The design took in to account the bloomtime, plant size, sun exposure, water requirements, flower and foliage color, and textures of the plants.

We encourage you to stroll through these gardens and identify your favorite plant combinations and which ones you might like to try in your own garden.

MEINDERS GARDEN

Part of designing a garden is adding layers of plants to make it more intriguing. This is what took place in the Meinders this past spring as we added another layer of native plants into the mix. The areas we specifically focused on were around the rill just east of the north plaza, the beds just west of the large boulder fountain on the corners and street side planting along Ron Norrick between the fountain and the Ice House.

This area has always been a special place in the garden as it is more intimate, cooling, and calming. The birds love the new plantings as you can watch them take dust baths and splash in the rill. It is a true oasis for nature and people.

CHILDREN’S POLLINATOR GARDEN

The Children’s Garden is the perfect place to begin educating youth about the importance and relevance of plants in our daily lives, so this spring we planted a Pollinator Garden showcasing over 40 different plant species. Plants were chosen for their attractiveness to pollinators like bees, butterflies and moths, as well as for their performance in Oklahoma gardens. We included plants like coneflowers, verbena, milkweed, and blanket flower and, this summer, the garden was bursting with color and insect activity. The educational programs that can come from having a garden like this are endless and this past summer children were buzzing about pollination!

GARDENS WALKING TOUR

Last Saturday of Every Month, 10am October 31, November 28 and December 26 South Lobby and Garden Grounds FREE / Walkups Welcome

Join us for our Myriad Gardens Walking Tour program! The tours, “Plants for Color” or “Plants for Water Conservation,” highlight plants in each season around the Gardens. Enjoy guided tours at 10am the last Saturday of each month or pick up a self-guided tour handout in our south lobby.

Thank you to the Oklahoma City Community Foundation’s Parks & Public Space Initiative for making this possible!

Asclepias tuberosa, Butterfly Weed. Photo by Doug Hoke.

Liatris pycnostachya, Prairie Blazing Star

Saccharum ravannae, Ravenna Grass

Ruellia simplex, Mexican Petunia

Photo by Carl Shortt Jr. 8

Kids & Families

BRINGING BOOKS TO LIFE

Every Wednesday in October 10 – 11am

Crystal Bridge South Lobby

FREE Best for ages 2-5

Bring your youngster for story time each Wednesday at 10am. Books are nature-themed and selected based on the season. Children will also enjoy creating a small craft after the story.

CIRCUS NOUVEAU AT BOATHOUSE

Friday, October 2, 7pm

OKC Boathouse District, Sky Trail

All Ages; FREE Sponsored by

The Gardens has teamed up with the Oklahoma City Boathouse District to help kick off the Oklahoma Regatta Festival. Art that enchants, invigorates and awakens the imagination has always been born of the rule breakers, and no one is breaking the rules more joyously, more fervently than Quixotic. Performing on the Sandridge Sky Trail, Quixotic will deliver a completely unique aerial performance for Oklahoma, complementing the innovation and upward momentum of Oklahoma City’s iconic Boathouse District and Myriad Gardens.

Pumpkinville Events

(see pages 3-4)

October 9-25, 10am – 5pm PUMPKINVILLE PRESENTED BY OGE ENERGY CORP.

Saturday, October 10, 11am – Noon TRULY TASTY PUMPKINS

Friday, October 9, 16 and 23, 1 – 1:30pm CIDER PRESS DEMONSTRATION AND TASTING

Saturday, October 10, 11am – 2pm PAINTING IN THE GARDENS SERIES WITH WINE AND PALETTE

Saturday, October 10, 17, and 24, 1 – 1:30pm STORY TIME AT THE PUMPKINVILLE LIBRARY

Saturday, October 24, 1 – 2pm WHY DO LEAVES CHANGE COLORS?

Saturday, October 24, 6 – 8pm PUMPKINVILLE HALLOWEEN PARTY: GARDEN MONSTER BASH

SPOOKY POOCH PARADE

Friday, October 16, 6:30pm

$10 per dog

Pre-registration preferred for dogs

Walk-up’s welcome if not sold out

Great Lawn

Adults OCTOBER

YOGA SERIES

Tuesdays, 5:45pm

Late arrivals not accepted after 5:50pm Inside the Crystal Bridge FREE M/$10 NM

Must be 16 & older

This is a great, all-levels Vinyasa-style class led by Alexis Persico, who has a loyal following at the Gardens and This Land Yoga. Class participants should bring a yoga mat and water. We’ll meet under the Pavilion as weather permits; when it doesn’t we will meet inside the Crystal Bridge. Drop in for a session or two or enjoy the entire series!

INTRODUCING OUR PRAIRIE GARDEN!

Friday, October 2, Noon – 1pm Crystal Bridge South Lobby and Prairie Garden FREE

Join us for an introduction to our newly installed prairie garden. Casey Sharber, our Director of Horticulture, will discuss the process of planning and installing our prairie, prairie plant characteristics, and the benefits of prairies to pollinators.

FABULOUS

FALL CONTAINERS

Saturday, October 10, 2 – 3:30pm Pavilion or Garden Room

Elizabeth Richardson, Owner of Adorn

$30 M/$36 NM

Create a container to celebrate the splendor of fall and adorn your landscape or tabletop. Elizabeth Richardson, container garden expert, will walk you through the planting steps as she discusses design and maintenance tips. You’ll then design and plant your own faux pumpkin container to enjoy all season.

GARDEN GAMES HOSTED BY THE AVANT GARDENERS PRESENTED BY

Sunday, October 25, 3:30-6:30pm FREE for Avant Gardener Members

$25 Non Avant Gardener Members Members begin regsitation Oct. 1

The Avant Gardener’s Garden Games is the best annual yard games event in OKC! Avant Gardener members attend for FREE! Mark your calendars for October 25 from 3:30-6:30pm on the Great Lawn for Garden Games. Registration opens October 1st.

Enjoy leisure games of crocket, ladder golf, and frisbee or participate in the Corn Hole tournament for your chance to win a great prize. Join the Myriad Gardens vibrant group of young professionals who are invested in improving Oklahoma City and who love the urban Oasis that is the Myriad Gardens as they host a Sunday Funday. Enjoy the musical magic of Born in November over a cold beer and a hot dog while you soak up the fall sun and play games with friends.

Find more information about purchasing a membership to the Avant Gardeners by visiting our website myriadgardens.org.

GARDENS WALKING TOUR

Last Saturday of Every Month, 10am October 31, November 28 and December 26 South Lobby and Garden Grounds FREE / Walkups Welcome

The Prairie Garden would not be possible without the generous support of the Kirkpatrick Family Fund and Stanley Smith Horticultural Trust.

November 2015 | CALENDAR OF EVENTS

Kids & Families

BRINGING BOOKS TO LIFE

Wednesday’s in November, 10 – 11am

Crystal Bridge South Lobby

FREE

Best for ages 2-5

Bring your youngster for story time each Wednesday at 10am. Books are nature-themed and selected based on the season. Children will also enjoy creating a small craft after the story.

NOTE: No program on November 26.

LEARN TO SKATE AT DEVON ICE RINK

Monday, November 16 and November 23 Monday, December 7 and December 14

7 – 7:25pm or 7:30 – 7:55pm

Devon Ice Rink

$40 M/ $45 NM

Lead by Artic Edge Ice Arena and Blazers Ice Centre professional staff. Class includes two 25 minute small group sessions, skate rental if needed, and a session ticket to practice on the Devon Ice Rink immediately following the participant’s lesson. Utilizing their finest coaches in the Oklahoma City community, the instruction will be well orchestrated and a sound foundation of skill set that introduces the general public to the basics of US Figure Skating and/or USA Hockey. Space is limited so please register online at www.myriadgardens.org by Monday, November 9.

KID-FRIENDLY HOMEMADE BREAD

Saturday, November 7, 11am – Noon

Water Plaza Room

Kelli McKay-Conrady, Prairie Thunder Baking Company Manager

$11 M/$13 NM

Best for ages 7 and up; great for both parents and kids!

This wonderful hands-on class is just what you knead to create delicious bread to enjoy. Join the pros from Prairie Thunder as they walk you through creating your own bread dough. Kids will take home dough for 3 loaves- enough to bake and share with friends and family!

PLANT WALK SERIES: PLANTS WITH THE BEST FALL INTEREST

Friday, November 6, Noon – 1pm

Crystal Bridge South Lobby and Garden Grounds

Mark Bays, Urban Forester FREE (Suggested $5 Donation)

Join Mark Bays, Oklahoma Forestry Services tree guru, as he discusses the best trees for fall color. Learn the conditions that make for the most brilliant falls and ways you can help Mother Nature along in your quest for fall color. Special thanks to program collaborator, OKC Beautiful.

Participants that cancel within 48 hours of the first scheduled lesson will receive a full refund. Participants that cancel less than 48 hours before the first scheduled lesson will receive skating passes to come back to the Devon Ice Rink to skate during normal rink hours.

WINTER SHOPPES PRESENTED BY PRODIGAL

November 27 – December 20

North Plaza by Great Lawn Open Thursday – Sunday, 11am – 6pm

They’re back and better than ever! The North Plaza by the Great Lawn will once again be transformed into a quaint winter shopping village. Wander amid charming clear-glass chalets featuring a curated collection of goods and gift ideas for everyone on your list, festive holiday lights and décor and even a few surprises this season. Visit myriadgardens.org to see the complete vendor list and more details.

HANDMADE SOAP WORKSHOP

Saturday, November 7, 2 – 4pm

Water Plaza Room

Charlotte and Dan Hayer, Soap Crafters, Laughing Rabbit Soap Company

$30 M/ $35 NM

Learn the art of soap making in this hands-on workshop. Each participant will leave with one pound of customized soap, which makes four bars and great holiday gifts! We’ll collaborate on the soap base as a class then you can incorporate essential oils and fragrances that add a soothing or healing touch.

SKETCHING PLANTS WITH WATER COLOR

Saturday, November 21, 1 – 3pm

Terrace Room and Crystal Bridge

Debby Kaspari, Artist

$25 M/ $30 NM

Draw your own piece of paradise in this class where you’ll learn the techniques involved in creating water color sketches. Following a demonstration we’ll practice with the materials and create our own tropical sketches with pencil and water color. This all-levels workshop will be fun and informative, with group and one-on-one instruction. Registrants will receive a list of materials to bring to class.

Adults

December 2015 | CALENDAR OF EVENTS

Kids & Families

BRINGING BOOKS TO LIFE

Wednesdays in December, 10 – 10:30am

Crystal Bridge South Lobby FREE Best for ages 2-5

Bring your youngster for story time each Wednesday at 10am. Books are nature-themed and selected based on the season. Stick around for December Drop-Ins at 10:30 to create a holiday-inspired craft.

NOTE: No program on December 23 or 30.

HOLIDAY SERIES: DECEMBER DROP-INS

Wednesday December 2, 9 and 16 10:30 — 11:30 am

Crystal Bridge South Lobby

FREE Suggested $2 donation/child Best for ages 2-5

Groups of 10 or more contact Dr. Ann Fleener at 405-445-7094

After Bringing Books to Life at 10am, stay for holiday crafts, music, and hot chocolate! Children will make ornaments to take home for tree decoration or gifts. We’ll use natural items like twigs, dried seeds, fruits, acorns, evergreen cuttings, pinecones and craft decorations.

SATURDAYS WITH SANTA

Saturdays, December 5, 12, 19, 10am – 4pm

Crystal Bridge Tropical Conservatory and South Lobby

FREE

The Gardens has partnered with Devon Energy to make this year’s holiday season even brighter! Devon’s Saturday’s with Santa will expand into the Gardens again this year, where families can enjoy FREE admission to the Crystal Bridge Tropical Conservatory, crafts, performances and treats. Holiday decorations, floral arrangements and festive displays will adorn the Bridge, while the outdoor Meinders Terrace will be decked with boughs of holly and greenery, making for a fa-la-la-la-lovely backdrop for family photos. While you’re here, be sure to visit the Devon Ice Rink and our other holiday attractions.

GINGERBREAD HOUSE WORKSHOP

Saturday, December 5, 10am – Noon Terrace Room

Dr. Ann Fleener, Garden’s Director of Education

$25 M/ $30 NM

All ages welcome! Children ages 8 and under will need chaperone help

Tis the season to decorate a beautiful gingerbread house. Come to the Gardens and create your fragrant masterpiece. All supplies provided including gingerbread structure, frosting, candies for decorating and a little help if needed.

MERRY & BRIGHT

FREE ADMISSION SUNDAYS PRESENTED BY

Sundays, 6 – 9pm

December 6, 13, 20, 27

Crystal Bridge FREE

The beauty of the Crystal Bridge takes on a whole new glow at night. Thanks to our friends at OGE Energy Corp., we are pleased to offer FREE admission on Sunday evenings in December to the Crystal Bridge Tropical Conservatory. Come enjoy charming holiday light displays and beautiful plant exhibits designed especially for the holiday season. It will be cold outside, but you will think it’s Christmas in July in the balmy warmth of the tropics.

ART CAMP IN THE GARDENS

Friday, December 18, 9am – 4pm

Terrace Room

Abrakadoodle Art Educators

$25 M/ $30 NM

Best for ages 6-10

Kids will have a blast kicking off their winter break with a day filled with art lessons, games, stories, and FUN with the pros from Abrakadoodle OKC. They’ll use tempera, watercolors and model magic as they learn different painting techniques and develop their unique creations. Bring a sack lunch.

Adults

LIVING WREATH CLASS

Saturday, December 5, 2 – 4pm Terrace Room

Dr. Ann Fleener, Director of Education and Kerry Rapp, Children’s Garden Manager

Succulent Wreath

$75 M/ $85 NM

Evergreen Wreath $45 M/ $55 NM

Choose from a fantastic, modern succulent wreath or the classic, traditional evergreen wreath in this fun, hands on holiday workshop. Participants will receive group and one-on-one instruction as we walk you through creating your own beautiful 18 – 22” wreath to adorn your wall, mantel, or other focal point in your home.

HAND-CRAFT YOUR OWN CHRISTMAS GIFTS

Saturday, December 12, 1 – 3pm

Terrace Room; Monica Arndt, Herbalist and Owner of Sky Ridge Farms

$15 M/$18 NM

Create a therapeutic holiday gift basket for your favorite host, or perhaps for yourself after a company-filled house! Join Monica as she discusses healing herbs and walk us through creating a sleep pillow, bath bomb, and calming herbal tea blend.

BOOK A TOUR and/or CLASS!

To book a program from our calendar of events call (405) 445-7080. To book a school group, call (405) 445-7094.

Education Continues Momentum

By Ann Fleener, PhD, Director of Education

Exciting things are happening in the Myriad Gardens Education Department right now! We have a great lineup of programs for this season, with everything from cider making for kids to container creating for adults to gingerbread house decorating for all. Check out the rest of the calendar for further info on these events and more.

We’re wrapping up our seventh month with Education Intern, Awen Clifford, who has been an invaluable addition to the Gardens and a tremendous help in my department. Awen has grown in her understandings, abilities, and interests over the past several months and is now leading several projects. These include planning and running our Bringing Books to Life program, inventorying our education supplies, and researching a new self-guided tour option that will launch in the spring. The self-guided tours are called Adventure Packs, and will be available for school groups and families to check out for use as they explore our Children’s Garden. The packs will encourage participants to explore parts of the garden they might otherwise miss and will encourage self-led learning.

Another offering we’ve been developing and improving is our school group programs. This spring we began offering a new program, Plants We Eat, which was very well-received. We’ve continued to evaluate and improve it since its launch. We also are working to develop a new school program, Plant Adaptations, which will teach grades fourth through sixth students about the adaptations plants need to survive in their given environment.

We hope to see you at the gardens soon for one of these exciting offerings!

To book a program from our calendar of events call 405-445-7080. To book a school group, call 405-445-7094.

We’re wrapping up our seventh month with Education Intern, Awen Clifford, who has been an invaluable addition to the Gardens and a tremendous help in my department.

-Dr. Ann Fleener

Education Intern Awen Clifford with Preston and London Le at Bringing Books to Life this summer.

Photo by Diana Ngo Le.

John Walters leads a tour around the Crystal Bridge. Photo by Carl Shortt Jr.

First VolunTeen Class Graduates

By Toni Lee, Director of Volunteer & Visitor Services

The Myriad Gardens kicked off our first teen volunteer program this year! Our inaugural VolunTeens gave over 400 hours. These nine fantastic VolunTeens greeted over 10,000 guests in the Crystal Bridge and helped over 2,000 kids with crafts in the Children’s Garden. In addition, received over 50 hours of training with our horticulture staff while helping maintain our 15 acre public garden.

We are so proud of each of our 2015 VolunTeens!

RACHAEL BILLINGSLEY

ALLISON GARRETT

GABBY GOMEZ

KENNEDY JOHNSON

BETHANY RANNE

RICARDO ROOPNARINESINGH

CARSON SCHLITTLER

JOHNATHAN TAYLOR

ABBY WHITAKER

The VolunTeen Program was created to allow teens the opportunity to learn more about horticulture and public gardens as a potential career opportunity. So often, kids are exposed to horticulture and plant science while in elementary school, but after middle school, plant science education often declines. Our program is directed toward teens in hopes to expose them to a career that is exciting, rewarding, and a viable option for those with an interest in plants.

Our ten week experience provides students with an opportunity to gain leadership and communication skills, practical horticulture experience and become part of a team. Our VolunTeen’s work in our Children’s Garden on education walk-up programs, greet and lead guided tours in the Crystal Bridge and receive one-on-one training from our expert horticulture staff as they learn about maintaining our 15 acre public garden.

We hope you and your teen will think of us as your plan your summer activities. The 2016 VolunTeen Program will be June 6-August 12, 2016. Teens entering 9th through 12th grades can apply online today! Application deadline is February 1, 2016. Please visit myriadgardens.org/volunteens

VOLUNTEER SPOTLIGHT: Roger Quinn

Dr. Roger Quinn has been a dedicated Myriad Gardens volunteer for 3 and a half years. He joined the team to be a part of the beautiful “oasis” in downtown Oklahoma City. He has a love of plants and has volunteered in the Crystal Bridge Tropical Conservatory, in our 15 acre outdoor gardens with our horticulture staff and with our annual plant sales. In addition, he gives a fantastic guided tour! Roger said, “My favorite part of volunteering is interacting with the staff and the visitors in a peaceful garden setting.” This makes perfect sense since he is always friendly, welcoming and helpful to both the staff and visitors greeting them, answering questions and lending a hand at any opportunity.

Roger has been married to Joy Quinn for more than 50 years. They have four daughters & seven wonderful grandchildren. The Quinn’s moved to Oklahoma City, from Illinois, in 1965 for a planned three year OB/GYN residency at The OU Health Sciences Center. Then, they lived in Idaho for a year and

spent two more years in California while Roger served in the US Navy. After returning to Oklahoma City, he practiced as an OB/GYN physician with The Oklahoma City Clinic for 27 years and then transitioned to The OU Health Science Center as a Women’s Clinic teacher. Once Roger retired from medicine, his love of plants became a focus as he worked to become a Master Gardener in 2011.

In addition to the Myriad Gardens, Roger also volunteers at Breakfast on Boulevard, in Edmond, two or more times per month and volunteers at their church, The First Christian Church in Edmond. When asked if he could have coffee with anyone in the world, his answer was simple: “My wife Joy, because she is my best friend and supporter.”

Front row: Casey Sharber, Carson Schlittler, Johnathan Taylor, Ricardo Roopnarinesingh, Kerry Rapp Second row: Rachael Billingsley, Allison Garrett, Kennedy Johnson. Back row: Toni Lee, Gabby Gomez

Roger Quinn, Gardens volunteer.

WHAT MADE YOU DECIDE TO BECOME A MEMBER OF THE MYRIAD GARDENS?

“We became members because of Bug Out, the lady bug release in the Tropical Conservatory. We thought that the price was great and the difference in paying admission verses the membership cost for a year made sense. We didn’t really know what to expect out of our membership beyond that, but having it inspires us to come more.”

HOW MANY CHILDREN DO YOU HAVE, AND WHAT ARE THEIR AGES? WHAT DO THEY LIKE ABOUT THE MYRIAD GARDENS AND MEMBERSHIP?

“I have very young children, only 2 ½ years old and 1 year old. At first, looking at social media, I thought that the Gardens would not be young kid-friendly. Then I realized that the programing for young children is good and different. We can make most of the activities work for us even though my kids are really young. In the conservatory they can start observing a little at a time and there is somewhere to grow in learning from there. The kids’ favorite parts are being able to run and play freely. ”

WHO DO YOU BRING TO THE GARDENS WHEN YOU VISIT?

Membership Q&A with Misty Sheriff

By Jessi Riesenberg, Membership Manager & Development Associate

Misty Sheriff (pictured far left) is a young wife and mother of two, a 2 ½ year old and 1 year old. She lives in Norman Oklahoma, where her husband teaches at the University of Oklahoma. Misty and her family have been Myriad Gardens members since early 2015! When I met with Misty for this interview she brought her kids and their grandma to enjoy the Crystal Bridge Tropical Conservatory while we talked.

WHAT HAS BEEN YOUR FAVORITE MEMBER BENEFIT?

“We have enjoyed the Bug Out, and the Charlotte’s Web festival. Having the membership allows us to come and go as we please while not having to pay admission over and over again.”

HOW OFTEN DO YOU VISIT THE GARDENS?

“When we come to the Gardens we bring Grandma a lot. Even though they live in Mustang she travels over here to be with the kids and come to the Gardens. Grandma and Grandpa recently went to Dancing in the Gardens night without the kids and loved their time and the Gardens.”

WHAT MEMBER BENEFITS HAVE YOU TAKEN ADVANTAGE OF?

“We just spent a few weeks on the east coast and discovered the reciprocal program! That was a great way for us to get our money out of our membership - that alone was worth it.”

“Usually weekly! We come to Wednesday story time and weekly walk ups. The seasonal splash pad is great for my small kids too.”

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE A CURRENT MEMBER WHO IS NOT SURE HOW TO USE THEIR MEMBERSHIP, OR WHO HASN’T USED THEIR MEMBERSHIP YET?

“Like the Facebook page. That is where I started and it has been a great tool to stay informed about what is going on in the Gardens and how to use your membership to get discounts.”

IF YOU AND YOUR FAMILY GOT STUCK IN THE CRYSTAL BRIDGE MYRIAD GARDENS ELEVATOR WITH A LOCAL CELEBRITY WHO WOULD YOU WANT IT TO BE?

“Emily Sutton. My husband was born and raised in Oklahoma so he thinks he knows all about the weather.”

ANY LAST THOUGHTS?

I saw a picture of what it used to look like, closed off. The public garden aspect of the Myriad Gardens is what we love about the gardens on the east coast. When I come here I feel safe – there is a sense of community.

Left to right: Misty, J.E.B., Anabelle, grandpa Rick Bradley holding Vivienne and grandma Gloria Bradley

Vivienne Sheriff was in the Lady Bug spirit at the Bug Out last June.

New Tulip Variety to Bloom Year-Round in the Children’s Garden

TULIP FEVER CONTINUES!

The Netherlands knows tulips. Breeding, growing, shipping, displaying, arranging, painting, you name it, the Dutch are the world’ tulip super power. When you think the Dutch cannot further innovate tulips, they do. What have they come up with now? Take a walk in our Children’s Garden to find out.

Thanks to a donation by Miles and Molly Tolbert, we recently were able to acquire, direct from the Netherlands, three tulip-shaped chairs for our Children’s Garden. Miles and Molly were searching for the perfect birthday gift for Miles’ father, long-time Gardens supporter, James Tolbert III. They found these whimsical chairs and asked if we would like to have them at the Gardens as a gift to us and Jim Tolbert.

Visitors of all ages are delighted to discover these witty ever-blooming tulips. Their bright red ‘petals’ peal down to make a seat that swivels around. It’s great fun to watch kids and adults discover how to turn the flower into a seat. We can also boast that Myriad Gardens is the first public site in the U.S. to have these chairs.

Scent-Sational Plants in the Conservatory

By Nate Tschaenn, Conservatory Specialist

In the Crystal Bridge Conservatory we recently put out some new interpretive signs highlighting some of our plants with fragrant leaves or flowers. There are many different and wonderful fragrances to be found in the Conservatory, but sometimes you have to know where to look. These signs will help our guests know which flowers to lean in close to for a whiff and which leaves they should gently rub to find these olfactory treats. Here are my top three favorite fragrant plants in the conservatory:

CHOCOLATE DAISY (Berlandiera lyrata) – True to its name, if you lean in close and smell the flowers of this sprawling perennial they will smell just like a freshly opened can of cocoa powder. It is native to Oklahoma growing as far north as Colorado and Kansas and south to Mexico. It flowers from spring to fall in Oklahoma and continuously in frost free environments like the Conservatory.

PLUMERIA (Plumeria obtusa) – In my opinion, the plumeria, or frangipani, is the most pleasantly perfumed of all flowers. Not too overwhelming and not too faint. It’s a popular choice for making Hawaiian leis. I remember being greeted outside a crowded and hectic airport in Indonesia by someone handing out leis. The fragrant garland necklace was so pleasant that it made the experience so much less stressful. Although it gets large, plumeria is easy to grow in a pot and can be brought indoors for the winter.

POPCORN SENNA (Senna didymobotrya) – A gentle brush of the leaves of this small tropical tree and your mouth will start to water as the scent of hot, buttery popcorn fills your nostrils. Even the yellow flowers resemble buttered popcorn. Popcorn senna is a quick grower and can be planted as an annual in the spring. It will reach six feet or more over the summer and flower profusely. Just be careful; if you plant it near a path, you will be craving popcorn every time you brush by it.

daily, Monday-Saturday, 9am - 5pm, Sunday, 11am - 5pm. Members get

CHOCOLATE DAISY

PLUMERIA

POPCORN SENNA

Director of Education Ann Fleener demonstrates the new tulip chairs.

Welcome to the Gardens

Cary Grenrock Joins the Community Board

Stephanie Currey Director of Public Events

We are delighted to welcome Cary Grenrock to the Myriad Gardens Foundation Community Board.

Cary moved to Oklahoma City from Southern California with his wife and 3 children. He is a tax partner with James R. Minnix, CPA, Inc., PC with more than 23 years of public accounting experience.

Cary focuses his work primarily in the healthcare, construction, and manufacturing and technology industries. He works with clients on corporate restructuring, merger and acquisition transitions and international and multi-state tax planning Cary expressed great interest in learning about and supporting the Myriad Botanical Gardens. “I’ve been an avid gardener since high school and believe a top notch botanical garden is an important part of any metropolitan area.”

Stephanie Currey joined the Gardens in August as the Director of Public Events and is excited to begin planning all of the Gardens’ wonderful year-round events. Stephanie is from Yukon, Oklahoma and holds a bachelor’s degree from the University of Oklahoma. While she moved to New York City to pursue her training and love of ballet, she has since moved back and appreciates Oklahoma even more as a wonderful place to live. Before coming to the Gardens, Stephanie was the program operations director for the Oklahoma Arts Institute and the assistant artistic director for the Central Oklahoma Ballet Company. She lives in Oklahoma City with her husband, Ben, and is known to throw a really great dinner party.

Tatianna Cannon

Director of Development

Tatianna Cannon is the new Director of Development for the Gardens. Tatianna is an alumna of the University of Oklahoma and earned her bachelor’s degree in Letters and her master’s degree in Adult and Higher Education. Prior to this position, Tatianna served as an adjunct professor for University College on OU’s Norman campus, and a Director of Development at the OUHSC College of Allied Health. She comes to the Gardens most recently from serving as a Manager of Development at Teach for America in Central Oklahoma.

Caleb Hanan Horticulturist

Caleb Hanan is a native Oklahoma, born and raised in Purcell Oklahoma. He comes from a long line of farmers and horticulturalist including his great grandfather, and grandfather who were both farmer. His father worked as an OSU Extension agent at McClain County for 25 years and would take him to work with him in the garden. This is where Caleb’s passion for plants grew at a very young age. He loves learning about native plants and learning how the Native Americans use those plants in their medicines and rituals. He loves to walk the creeks in Ada, Oklahoma and find Native American artifacts. Having a passion for plants, Caleb studied horticulture at OSU-OKC and continues to enjoy learning something new every day.

Leslie A. Spears Director of Public Relations and Marketing

Leslie has been a contractor with the Myriad Gardens since 2012 as digital media consultant. She was officially named Director of Marketing and Communications in August. Her background includes being the Communications Manager for the Oklahoma City Museum of Art from its opening in 2002 until leaving in 2012 to start her own business, Leslie’s OKC. Other previous jobs include publications manager with the Greater Oklahoma City Chamber and work in radio. Through her work as the digital media consultant, Leslie has successfully grown the Gardens’ digital media outreach to impressive levels.

Share your photos from inside the Crystal Bridge. @myriadgardens #myriadblooms, #myriadgreen, #myriadlife, #myriadwater Flower in photo: Spicy Jatropha OKLAHOMA

ICONIC URBAN OASIS FILLED WITH THOUSANDS OF FASCINATING TROPICAL AND DESERT PLANTS TO DISCOVER.

VISIT | EXPLORE | SHARE

Crystal Bridge the Tropical Conservatory

OPEN DAILY

MONDAY -SATURDAY, 9AM-5PM & SUNDAY, 11AM-5PM

MEMBERS ALWAYS FREE!

Gotta get back in time to summer 2015

FULL MOON BIKE RIDE & SUNSET RUN

CHESS SUNDAYS IN THE GARDENS

FATHER’S DAY 5K & OAKS AND ACORNS FUN RUN

BUG OUT

CHARLOTTTE’S WEB

The Myriad Gardens was a hub of activity this summer entertaining more than 40,000 people! Events included Full Moon Bike Rides & Sunset Runs, Father’s Day 5K, SONIC Summer Movies, Outdoor Dinner Series, Cat Video Festival, Bug Out, John Fullbright concert, Charlotte’s Web Festival, barre3 workouts, paddleboarding on the lake and more! Thank you for attending any of these events and most definitely thanks for the memories!

SONIC SUMMER MOVIES

CAT VIDEO FESTIVAL

DANCING IN THE GARDENS

DEEP ROOTS CONCERT SERIES

OUTDOOR DINNER SERIES

There’s something for everyone during the holidays at Myriad Botanical Gardens

Devon Ice Rink Saturdays with Santa Winter Shoppes

FREE Crystal Bridge admission

Thanks to our signature holiday sponsors Devon Energy Corp. OGE Energy Corp. American Energy Partners, LP

Sundays

December 6, 13, 20, 27 6 – 9pm

November 13 - January 31

Monday - Sunday, 10am - 6pm Gardens Members skate for $7. Nonmember pricing is $12 including skates or $8 with your own skates.

Crystal Bridge FREE MERRY & BRIGHT FREE ADMISSION SUNDAYS

November 28 - December 20

Saturdays

December 5, 12, 19 10am – 4pm

Crystal Bridge and South Lobby FREE

Thursday - Sunday, 11am - 6pm Vendors to be announced

Give the Gift of Membership this Holiday Season!

Looking for a person and unique gift?

Membership to the Gardens make a great gift that keeps on giving all year long. Plus, these memberships are tax-deductible and help keep the Gardens growing. A family membership is just $65!

To purchase a gift membership, please call our membership department at (405) 445-7089. We will send a cheerful packet and a personalized note.

CORPORATE MEMBERS

AMERICAN ENERGY PARTNERS

BC CLARK JEWELERS

DEVON ENERGY CORP

EXPRESS PERSONNEL SERVICES

OGE ENERGY CORP

OKLAHOMA ALLERGY & ASTHMA CLINIC, INC.

SLICE MAGAZINE

SPROUTS FARMERS MARKET

TELEFLORA

Thank you Avis!

Like the Stone Soup story, Myriad Gardens has been made more ‘delicious’ thanks to a gift from Avis Scaramucci.

When we described how we could make our Children’s Garden porch more inviting, comfortable and better for our Many programs, Avis readily agreed to help make it happen.

With new furniture, books,bulletin boards, plantings and more, our Children’s Garden porch is one of the nicest spots in Oklahoma To hang out at any age.

Thank you to Avis and all of our donors and supporters who continue to help us make the Gardens better and better for our community.

Every Gift Matters!

Please consider the Gardens for your End-of-Year Giving

The realization of the uniqure vision of the Myraid Gardens as a “Garden in the City” combining glorious horticultural displays with mulitple performance and event venues filled with nonstop activities, entertainment and education programs, all in the very center of the City, is one of the keystones of our City’s renaissance. It becomes more delightful every day. This past summer more than 50,000 people were in attandence to events, Crystal Bridge attendance, educational classes, the water features, facility rentals and just for a getaway picnic or walk with a good Fitbit.

To maintain and continually enahnce this treasure for all of Oklahoma City, the Myriad Gardens Foundaiton must annualy generate almost two million dollars in private support.

When considering end of year giving, please consider the Myriad Gardens Foundation. Donations to our annual fund can be made online at myriadgardens.org or by call (405) 445-7080. We’ve also provided an envelope inserted into this newsletter.

Avis Scaramucci pictured second to the left enjoys iced tea with staff Deborah Morey, Maureen Heffernan, Kerry Rapp, Jessi Reisenberg, Tatianna Cannon, Erin McPhall

301 WEST RENO OKLAHOMA CITY, OK 73102

From everything from holiday and birthday parties, weddings, to galas, and corporate events and parties all occaisions are all a great fit to hold at the Myriad Gardens. From 4 to 400 we can comfortably host your next event in a rental space guaranteed to impress and inspire.

Our catering partner, Park House, offers an upscale menu that can be customized to fit any palette and meet the needs of your event. Whether you are planning an intimate gathering or a lavish celebration, you will find the Gardens to be a distinctive and imaginative choice.

For more information, contact Chelsea Wilson, Facility Operations & Rental Manager (405) 445-7092 or cwilson@myriadgardens.org