5th Annual Pumpkinville, October 7-23 Holidays at the Gardens
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
Avis Scaramucci
Join these community leaders as a partner with Myriad Botanical Gardens and you will be connected to one of Oklahoma’s venerable community resources
VISION STATEMENT
Myriad Botanical Gardens seeks to enhance the quality of life and vibrancy of downtown Oklahoma City by creating and sustaining a world-class public garden and offering quality horticultural, cultural and recreational programs and events for all.
Myriad Gardens Foundation
Executive Board of Directors
Chairman
J. Larry Nichols*
Chair Emeritus
James R. Tolbert III*
Treasurer
Matt Cole*
Mark Beffort
John Hart
Paul Lefebvre*
Herman Meinders
Gary Pierson
David Rainbolt
Meg Salyer*
Avis Scaramucci*
Sean Trauschke
Myriad Gardens Foundation Staff
Executive Director
Maureen Heffernan
Chief Financial Officer
Chuck Davis
Deputy Director
Debora Morey
*Also a Community Board Member
Community Board of Directors
Paul Lefebvre, President
Brian Alford
Robert L. Allee
Tony Boghetich
Gerry Bonds
Lindsey Brock
Bob Calvert
Janie Comstock
Irma Elliott
James Everest
Warren V. Filley, MD
Chris Fleming
Ginny Greenberg
Cary Grenrock
Linda Haneborg
Seyan Hefner
Dannie Bea Hightower
Linda Horn
Gail Huneryager
Dixie Jensen
Michael Laird
Jean McLaughlin
Robert H. Meinders
James R. Morley
Allen Paine
Morton Payne
Kent Phillips
James A. Pickel
Christina Rehkop
Lynn Robberson
D. Joe Rockett
Kim Searls
Marsha See
Carl Shortt
Beth Wells
Roy H. Williams
Dear Gardens Friends:
Over the last year, 225,000 people took part in some kind of event or activity at the Gardens. Add in the many casual visitors who simply come to the park to relax and enjoy it and we estimate we attract well over 500,000 visitors each year. One of those visitors is Michelle Keever Major, who recently wrote in a Facebook review:
I don’t know what life would be like without the amazing memories, experiences and adventures we’ve had as a family at this park. From the kids’ park, to the splash park, the restaurant, amazing flowers, Crystal Bridge, ducks, fish, concerts, movies, dancing, moon light bike rides, yoga, children’s readings, plays, all of the holiday celebrations….I spend more time at this park than ANYWHERE!!
Receiving such a wonderful comment like this makes all of us at the Gardens even more motivated to continually enhance our gardens and public programs. Some improvements we’ve accomplished this year include:
Renovating our east and west lake terraces to mitigate erosion issues and replanting them with an ornamental native grass called Mexican Feather grass. Look for native wildflowers that we will be adding next spring to intermingle with the grasses to add sparks of color and to help attract even more butterflies, bees and birds to the Gardens. (See page 8)
Hardscape improvements included a paver replacement project on our west plaza area. The new more durable pavers are better for events and show off our container plantings to better advantage. New benches were installed on our east lake area to enjoy beautiful views of the waterfall.
“Do you have a gift shop?” is one of the most frequent questions visitors ask us. So, working with locally-owned Scissortail Gifts, we now have a new pop-up type gift shop in the south lobby of the Crystal Bridge. Open daily, it stocks a variety of Made in Oklahoma items along with gardening books for all ages and many other items. Your purchases help support the Gardens and members enjoy a 10% discount on all items.
Our education department launched a new Adventure Backpack program in September that is sure to motivate kids and families to spend time in our Children’s Garden observing and learning more about nature, plants and ecological connections. (See page 13)
To keep up with all of our programming and what happens in the Gardens, I’d encourage you to check in daily on our Instagram site. Photos of flowers to families, from ducks to dogs and so much more parade through this site in so many ways that will make you smile. You’ll see the many ways people of all backgrounds and abilities engage with Myriad Gardens. We love being called OKC’s best park and happy place!
As always, thank you for your support as Gardens members. Your donations and membership support is the reason why Michelle wrote us her lovely post.
Thank you.
Maureen Heffernan Executive Director
Pumpkinville will be opening October 7-23 will feature new interactive programs and décor elements made by local artists in order to create an enchanted harvest realm that is unlike any other pumpkin patch. Please plan to visit and enjoy the Gardens this fall and into the holiday season. See page 3-4 for details.
Maureen Heffernan
Receiving such a wonderful comment like this, makes all of us at the Gardens even more motivated to continually enhance our gardens and great public programs.
Pumpkinville, presented by OGE Energy Corporation
5th Annual Pumpkinville set for October 7-23
Pumpkinville transforms our Children’s Garden into a pumpkin wonderland with over 16,000 pumpkins, hundreds of brightly colored mums, corn stalks and creative hand-made decor to celebrate fall.
Thank you to our sponsors: OGE Energy Corporation, Express Employment Professionals, Delta Dental, E.L. and Thelma Gaylord Foundation, Enable Midstream Partners, Bricktown Holiday Inn Express, Mercedes Benz Oklahoma City, Midtown Renaissance, Gray Blodgett & Company, LLC, Cuppies and Joe, Scissortale Salon, Andrews Davis P.C. and Jil and Tony Boghetich.
PUMPKINVILLE EVENTS
FRIDAYS, OCTOBER 7, 14, 21, 1-1:30PM
Cider Press Demonstration and Tasting Pavilion Lawn
FREE, ($2 suggested donation per participant) All ages welcome
Learn how cider is made as we try out our oldfashioned cider press each Friday during Pumpkinville. Join in on the cider making and enjoy a taste of this delicious juice at the end.
WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 12, 1-2:30PM
How to Create an Herbal Home Pavilion Lawn
Taught by Lori Coats, My Raggedy Herbs M $5; NM $7
Register by Friday, October 7
Herbs aren’t scary and mysterious and they are not just for teas! Come learn how to incorporate herbs into your home and busy lifestyle that are simple to grow and easy to use. Join us for this class to discover tips for growing, drying and using herbs that will save you time and money while improving your health and increasing your happiness.
SATURDAYS, OCTOBER 8, 15, 22,12-4 PM SUNDAYS, OCTOBER 9, 16, 23, 12-4 PM
Bricktown Holiday Inn Express Around Pumpkinville
$1 per rider, 3 & Under FREE Handicapped accessible Climb aboard the Bricktown Holiday Inn Express Train for a ride on a train around the fantastically fall Gardens.
SATURDAYS, OCTOBER 8, 15, 22, 1-1:30PM
Story Time on Grandmother’s Porch
Sponsored by Gray, Blodgett & Company, PLLC The Porch in the Children’s Garden FREE with admission to Pumpkinville Best for ages 4-9
Story Time will be read and acted by our friends from the Oklahoma Children’s Theater!
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 8, 2-3PM
Beginning Pumpkin Carving Class with David Holland
Pumpkinville Tent on Pavilion Lawn
M $18; NM $20
Best for ages 8 & Older Register by Thursday, October 6
In this class you will follow pumpkin carver David Holland through the process of carving a traditional jack-o-lantern using curved and straight line cutouts in a pumpkin that you will take home with you at the end of the class. You can light it up at home to amaze your friends! And then the night before Halloween you can carve your own pumpkin at home with a pattern you chose or draw to get the pumpkin of your dreams.
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 15, 11AM-1PM
Painting in the Gardens Series with Wine and Palette Pumpkin Painting
Pumpkinville Tent on Pavilion Lawn
M $10; Call (405) 227-0230 to register and receive discounted rate.
NM $15; register online at wineandpalette.com
All ages; walk-ups welcome if not sold out
Wine and Palette instructors will help you paint your own pumpkin. This is always very popular. Participants will be given instruction and shown the steps to create a unique and personal work of art.
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 22, 2-3:30PM
Intermediate Pumpkin Carving Class with David Holland
Pumpkinville Tent on Pavilion Lawn
M $23; NM $25
Best for ages 13 & Older Register Thursday, October 20
In this class you will follow pumpkin carver David Holland through the process of carving a traditional jacko-lantern using curved and straight line cutouts in a pumpkin that you will take home with you at the end of the class. You can light it up at home to amaze your friends! And then the night before Halloween you can carve your own pumpkin at home with a pattern you chose or draw to get the pumpkin of your dreams.
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 22, 6:30-8:30PM
Pumpkinville Halloween Party: Garden Monster Bash
Presented by PB&J Your Way Children’s Garden
M $10 per child; $8 per adult
NM $13 per child; $11 per adult Register online myriadgardens.org
The monsters at this Halloween party are definitely more friendly than frightening. Join us for ghoulish garden games, eerie entertainment, and devilishly good treats! There will be prizes for those who wear their creepy, crawly and cute costumes.
UNDERWRITER
Anonymous in honor of
Beth and Jim Tolbert
LaDonna and Herman Meinders
Nancy and George Records
Southwestern Stationery and Bank Supply
Teleflora
PLATINUM
Devon Energy Corporation
Jax Investments
Jean I. Everest Foundation
Mattison Law Group, P.C.
Jean and David McLaughlin
Bob Meinders
Mrs. R.Z. Naifeh
Polly and Larry Nichols
Beth and Jim Tolbert
GOLD
Brown Egg Bakery
Deep Deuce Grill
Factor 110
Kamala Gamble
Avis and Phil Scaramucci
Richard L. Sias
Smith & Pickel Construction
Williams, Box, Forshee & Bullard, P.C.
SILVER
American Fidelity Foundation
Andrews Davis, P.C.
Crowe & Dunlevy
Shirley E. Dearborn, M.D.
Dobson Technologies
Karen and Warren Filley
Ginny and Bob Greenberg
Leslie and Cliff Hudson
Mercedes Benz Oklahoma City
Midtown Renaissance
Libby and Morton Payne
Presbyterian Health Foundation
Sees Design
Total Environment
BRONZE
Accel Financial
Steven C. Agee
BKD CPAs & Advisors
Jil and Tony Boghetich
Lindsey Brock
Calverts Plant Interiors
Corner Energy, LLC
Downtown OKC, Inc.
Josephine Freede
Hall Estill
Maureen Heffernan
Seyan and John Hefner
Debora and Ronnie Morey
Donna and Jim Morley
Karen Nester
Oklahoma City University
Glenda Payne
Melanie and Marc Rice
Lee Allan Smith
Robert Meinders to be honored at Orchids in October
Set for Thursday, October 20, 11:30am
The Board of Directors is pleased to announce Robert (Bob) Meinders as the 2016 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 20, with registration commencing at 11:30 and the program beginning at noon on the Water Stage, followed by a luncheon catered by Kamala Gamble in the Park House Events Center.
He has been a board member of the Myriad Gardens Foundation since 2007. His generosity and support over the years has helped us to maintain our beautiful grounds and continue our quality events and education. Any time the Gardens needed extra support for a project or other need, Bob made sure the funds were available. He even made certain that the American flag flies proudly in the circle drive of the Crystal Bridge.
Bob moved from Minnesota to Oklahoma City in 1972 to join his brother, Herman at American Floral Services, an international flower-by-wire service that merged with Teleflora in 2000. He joined Guaranty Bank (later known as Coppermark) in 1986 and served as a director until it was sold in 2014. He currently serves on the board of The Meinders Foundation.
Annual Orchid Sale
Thursday, October 20, 9am-5pm in the South Lobby of the Crystal Bridge. Nate Tschaenn, Director of Horticulture, will be available at 11:30am to answer any questions.
Bob says he has been blessed with a good life and is dedicated to giving back to this community and those who helped him. He has indeed given back to the Myriad Botanical Gardens.
Ticket prices are $85; sponsorship levels begin at $250. For more information, or to receive an invitation please call (405) 445-7084.
Robert Meinders
Sean Trauschke Joins the Executive Board
Sean Trauschke joined the Executive Board in June 2016. He serves as Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer for OGE Energy Corp. After joining OGE as Vice President and Chief Financial Officer in April 2009 Sean was named President of Oklahoma Gas and Electric in July 2013 and named President of OGE Energy in August 2014. He serves on the board of directors for Enable GP, LLC, the general partner of Enable Midstream Partners LP. Sean has been active in numerous civic and community organizations and currently serves on the boards of the State Chamber of Oklahoma, Heritage Hall, Greater Oklahoma City Chamber, United Way of Central Oklahoma, Children’s Hospital Foundation, Oklahoma State Fair and Downtown OKC.
New Community Board Members Announced
Paul Lefebvre named President, Community Board
Paul Lefebvre has been on the Community Board since 2009 and is beginning his role as president for the fiscal years 2017 and 2018. He is an attorney with Williams, Box, Forshee & Bullard, P.C., and practices in the area of commercial real estate. Paul grew up in Oklahoma City and has wonderful memories of downtown during his youth. His experience of downtown in the late 50s and early 60s was that it was an exciting place. Then, things changed. In recent years, however, downtown Oklahoma City has enjoyed a renaissance that, while different in particulars, is reminiscent of the downtown he so enjoyed growing up. Paul said “The Myriad Gardens has become the center of the new downtown Oklahoma City. The diversity of people and families who enjoy the Gardens is wonderful. Watching the crowds of kids on a Saturday morning enjoy the water features at the Gardens is a thrill. Supporting the Myriad Gardens is natural for me.”
Tony Boghetich joined the Community board in May 2016. He was an adjunct professor at Oklahoma City Community College, teaching law and banking. He has worked with several bar and banking associations, speaking at numerous seminars on a variety of legal and banking subjects. Tony has been active in leadership positions with numerous charities serving as a founding member of the Board of Trustees of the Regional Food Bank of Oklahoma and served as its president from 2004 to 2008. He has served for many years as a Trustee of the Robert Glenn Rapp Foundation and currently sits on the Investment Committee for the Foundation. Tony was awarded the “Distinguished Alumnus Award” from the Cox School of Business at Southern Methodist University.
Janie Comstock joined the Community Board in February 2016. Janie has been the owner of J Kimball Interiors since 1988. She was a board member of Oklahoma City Beautiful for 10 years and served as its president for two years. She received Rookie of the Year Award in 2006 and the Morrison Graham Tucker Award in 2013. Janie was named winner of Oklahoma Beautiful 2016 Statewide Environmental Excellence Competition representing Oklahoma City Beautiful. She was an honoree in Ladies in the News in 2013. Janie was instrumental in Lakehurst Beautification Project.
Chris Fleming joined the Community Board in June 2016. He is Executive Vice President and partner of Midtown Renaissance. Chris is a judge for the annual Donald W. Reynolds Governor’s Cup Business Plan Competition, a member of the Advisory Board of ULI Oklahoma and on the Board of Advisors for the Professional MBA at the University of Oklahoma’s Price College of Business. Chris is a past chairman of the Board of trustees for St. Luke’s United Methodist Church and former director of the St. Luke’s United Methodist Church Foundation. Chris is a partner with Bob Howard and Mickey Clagg in the REHCO Company.
Christina Rehkop joined the Community Board in August 2016. She is the manager of Community Relations at Devon Energy Corporation. Christina has several years of community relations experience in the public private and nonprofit sectors. She has a broad background in strategic planning, nonprofit governance, public affairs and event planning. She currently serves on the board of Directors of Smart Start Central Oklahoma, Leadership Oklahoma City Alumni Association, United Way of Canadian County and the Oklahoma Center for Nonprofits.
Paul Lefebvre
Tony Boghetich
Janie Comstock
Chris Fleming
Christina Rehkop
Sean Trauschke
Horticulture Happenings
The Gardens’ Summer Favorites That Will Work For Oklahoma Home Gardens
Nate Tschaenn, Director of Horticulture
Have you ever tried growing a plant that you saw in a gardening magazine or catalog with disappointing results? Maybe the leaves were yellow or burnt to a crisp in summer, the bloom time was disappointingly short or nonexistent, or you were plagued by disease or insects. Growing plants in Oklahoma is much different, and often more challenging than many other areas of the country. It’s easy to be jaded when seeing photos of gardens in other states and think, “I can’t grow that here.”
One of the great benefits about visiting your local public gardens is being able to actually see and evaluate a great variety of plants actually growing in your local conditions. At Myriad Gardens you will be able to see plants not only at their peak but also after a month or two of 90-plus degree days. Part of our mission is to showcase plants that Oklahoma gardeners will be most likely to have success with in their own gardens. We are also planting and trying new things every year, sometimes with great success and sometimes failure.
Here are some of our favorite plants that are new to the Gardens this year and have held up well all summer:
Cherry Skullcap
(Scutellaria suffrutescens)
This is probably my favorite addition this year. I’ve been blown away by this plant’s performance. It started blooming in April and has not stopped as of mid-August. It is a very low growing perennial, never reaching more than 8 inches in height. It’s planted in full sun in one of the hottest spots in the Gardens and hasn’t shown any sign of stress.
‘Caradonna’ is by far my favorite cultivar of meadow sage. The flowers are dark purple and are held more upright in straighter spikes and bloom longer than most other cultivars, including ‘May Night’, which is much more common but does not perform well in Oklahoma in my opinion. We paired it with the cherry skullcap and it is a knockout combination.
Blackfoot Daisy
(Melampodium leucanthum)
Blackfoot Daisy is a wonderful Oklahoma native prairie plant. I have been tremendously impressed with the nonstop bloom production without any need for deadheading. The low, spreading growth and heavy flower production makes it seem like an annual, but this perennial withstands our cold winters as well as the blistering heat. The dainty white flowers are also fragrant and attract butterflies.
Purple Pride Beautyberry (Callicarpa dichotoma ‘Issai’)
While beautyberry wasn’t exactly a new addition to the Gardens, we certainly needed more of this awesome native shrub. We added a mass of 16 three gallon plants to the southeast lower lake and I’ve been impressed how quickly they grew and filled in. The graceful arching branches and clusters of tiny pink flowers are nice in summer, but the true show for these shrubs comes in fall. The long, slender branches are currently covered in tiny bright purple berries that will remain long after the leaves fall off.
Mexican Sunflower (Tithonia rotundifolia ‘Torch’)
Although not a true sunflower, Mexican sunflower is a quick growing annual that can reach impressive heights and is easily grown from seed like sunflowers. The intensely bright flowers are much smaller and more abundant though. Our plants grew to about 5 feet high and 3-4 feet wide. They may require some staking. One plant had a branch bend in half but it still continued to grow and flower. We’ve been so impressed with these plants; you can count on seeing more next year.
Pink Zazzle Gomphrena (Gomphrena ‘Pink Zazzle’)
I had never seen this annual before finding it in a garden center this spring. It was so different from any other gomphrena I’ve ever seen that I knew I had to try some. The flowers are huge for a gomphrena, a little over two inches wide. The light green leaves are also bigger and covered in long, thin hairs giving it a delightfully fuzzy appearance. The plants have not spread as much as a typical gomphrena, but have bloomed continuously and work well in flower beds. You can see this cool annual for yourself in the Children’s Garden.
Delicious Monster Grows in the Crystal Bridge
By Roberta Rowland, Conservatory Specialist
Monstera deliciosa, which translates to delicious monster, is one of the few plants in the aroid family (Araceae) that has an edible fruit. The torpedo-shaped fruits take more than a year to ripen and taste like a mixture of banana and pineapple with hints of other tropical fruits, which is why it is often called “fruit salad plant.” However, all parts of Monstera deliciosa are poisonous, except the ripe fruits. Even the unripe fruit causes irritation to the mouth and throat because the plant contains oxalic acid. Additionally, some individuals have sensitivity to oxalic acid and complain of discomfort or pain in their mouths and throat after eating the ripe fruit.
Monstera is a vine that can grow more than 70 feet when grown on a tall tree or structure. In general, monstera are fascinating specimens and easy to care for. They make a great houseplant if you have the space for it. They only require moderately bright light and humidity. Another common name for this tropical is Swiss cheese plant because the large (3’ long), mature leaves are full of oval-shaped holes. Come see our mature flowering specimen in the Crystal Bridge on your next visit.
Renovations and Replanting Completed for Lake Terraces
By Matt Janda, Gardens and Grounds Manager
If you have visited the Gardens this past summer, you may have noticed construction on the east and west sides of the lower lake. Our terraces have had an erosion problem in the past which made for extensive cleanup anytime our Oklahoma weather blessed us with rain. As of July, the east terraces have been completed and the west side was completed in September.
The process of repairing the terraces began by removing the existing ornamental grasses, erosion control fabric, and drip irrigation lines. Pop-up spray irrigation replaced the drip irrigation, as it was inconsistent and often clogged. The pop-up sprays will provide optimal coverage, make it easier to establish new plant material, and reduce the cost of repairing drip lines that easily get punctured during routine maintenance. A retaining wall was built to replace the aluminum edging and to add more support to the terraces. The walls are capped with limestone to match the existing benches.
We are so grateful to two major donors who helped us cover the costs of the east and west terrace renovations. We extend our sincerest thanks to Jean and David McLaughlin and The Kirkpatrick Family Fund whose generous donations made this work possible. Their continued support, and the support of all donors, help us to make continual enhancements to our Gardens to work towards creating a truly worldclass public garden and park space with free access for all.
Next, a cellular confinement system commonly known as geocell was added to the beds, which have a 40 degree incline. The geocell system provides pockets for plants, structural reinforcement and proper drainage. Once the terraces were structurally sound, 75 tons of sandy loam soil was backfilled. The sandy loam soil promotes drainage while providing organic nutrients to the plants.
Lastly, the horticultural team planted more than 1,300 one-gallon Mexican Feather Grasses (Nassella tenuissima) This particular native ornamental grass was selected because it will seed itself and spread. More plants that are well rooted will further help solve our erosions issues. This grass will also add to the aesthetic value of the Gardens year-round with their green and straw-colored flowing feathery tops. Also new to the terraces is a Bermuda grass called ‘Northbridge’. ‘Northbridge’ tolerates heavy foot traffic more so than the Zoysia grass it replaced. These very grassy terraces, once fully grown in, are sure to be enjoyed by all guests.
Monstera deliciosa
Kids & Families
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 8, 10:30AM-NOON
Woodland Terrarium Class
Pavilion Lawn
M $30; NM $35
Register by October 6
All ages welcome, ages 13 and under must be accompanied by an adult
Make your own Woodland Terrarium to enjoy at home. We will take you through the steps of creating your whimsical terrarium, and don’t worry, there will be plenty of miniature items for you to add. Then we’ll go over tips for maintaining it.
SUNDAY, OCTOBER 16
7PM RUN; 8PM BIKE RIDE
Full Moon Bike Ride and Run
Meet at the Band Shell by the Great Lawn Suggested donation of $5 per person
Join other runners in a 5K run, led by Ultramax Sports Oklahoma, through the scenic downtown area as the sun sets. Those who make their $5 donation will be entered in a drawing for prizes from Red Coyote Running and Fitness.
Rather ride your bike? Bring your bike and meet up a for a leisurely one hour ride. Downtown-area routes are specially planned by Schlegel Bicycles. Lights and helmets are required. Those who make their $5 donation will be entered in a drawing for prizes from Schlegel Bicycles.
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 29, 6-7:30PM
Spooky Pooch Parade
Great Lawn & Band Shell
M $10 per dog; NM $12 per dog
All dogs must be leashed at the event and non-aggressive.
SPONSORED BY
Join us for our Spooky Pooch Parade on the Great Lawn. Enjoy spooky music and our parade of pooches. Judges will present prizes to the best dressed pooch! You don’t have to register a dog to take part in the fun or even have a dog. Bring the family and be an observer.
SUNDAYS, OCTOBER 9, 16, 23, 12-4PM Bricktown Holiday Inn Express Around Pumpkinville
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 8, 2-3PM Beginner Pumpkin Carving Class with David Holland
SATURDAYS, OCTOBER 8, 15, 22, 1-1:30PM Story Time on Grandmother’s Porch
WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 12, 1-2:30PM How to Create an Herbal Home
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 15, 11AM-1PM Painting in the Gardens Series with Wine and Palette
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 22, 2-3:30PM Intermediate Pumpkin Carving Class with David Holland
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 22, 6:30-8:30PM Pumpkinville Halloween Party: Garden Monster Bash
On-Going in the Gardens
TUESDAYS, 5:45PM
Yoga In the Gardens
No Late arrivals after 5:50pm Pavilion or inside the Crystal Bridge M FREE; NM $10
Must be 16 & older
This is a great, all-levels class led by Lisa Woodard. Class participants should bring a yoga mat and water. Classes will meet under the Pavilion as weather permits; when it doesn’t they will meet inside the Crystal Bridge. Drop in for a session or two or enjoy the entire series!
EVERY WEDNESDAY, 10 -11AM
Reading Wednesdays (Formerly Bringing Books to Life; new name, same great program!)
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. For groups of 10 or more please call Kodi Clifford at (405) 835-6789.
Note: No program November 23, December 21 and December 28.
LAST SATURDAY MONTHLY, 10AM
Gardens Walking Tour
South Lobby and Garden Grounds Free Walkups Welcome!
Join us to expand your Oklahoma plant knowledge and get great ideas for your yard. Each month changes as the plants grow through the seasons; in October and December we’ll discuss plants for color and in November we’ll highlight plants for water conservation. Can’t make it for the guided tour? Pick up a self-guided handout in our South Lobby.
OCTOBER 2016 | CALENDAR
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 6, 7-10PM
Dancing in the Gardens featuring Line Dancing
Seasonal Plaza (by Ice House) FREE, All Ages Welcome
Join us as we transform the Seasonal Plaza into an urban dance space. Beginning at 7pm, instructors from 3Sixty Dance Studio will give a dance demonstration followed by a FREE lesson for all. At 8pm our DJ will crank up the tunes to get the dancing started. Drink and food specials will be offered to highlight the night.
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 15, 2-3PM
Pumpkin Calligraphy Class
Pavilion Tent
Megan Miller, owner of Oh Honey Paper Co
M $20; NM $25
Register by October 11
SUNDAY, OCTOBER 16, 1-3PM
Pumpkin Wreath Class
Pumpkinville Tent
M $20 ; NM $25
All supplies included Walk-ups welcome if space allows. Register by October 15
Nothing says fall like pumpkins! Come to the Gardens and learn how to make an 18” deco mesh-pumpkin wreath for your fall décor!! Wreaths can be made in orange or white, please specify when registering which you prefer. Taught by Staci Deering of That Crazy Lady, a boutique in Yukon, OK.
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 22, 10AM–2PM
Pickle Practically Anything:
Introductory Class
Park House Event Center
Dr. Barbara Brown of OSU Extension
M $8; NM $10
Register by October 18
Saturday, October 29, 10–11am The Great Tree Giveaway Pavilion or South Lobby in bad weather Maureen Heffernan, Gardens Executive Director and Nicki Largent, The Tree Bank Foundation Executive Director M $5; NM $10
Register by October 25
Add a little beauty to your landscape with one of the most affordable trees you’ll ever find! Thanks to the generous support of the Tree Bank Foundation, we’re offering a mixture of evergreen and deciduous trees in 3 gallon containers for you to take home and enjoy in your landscape. Plant maintenance tips will be discussed and each tree will come with a plant care sheet. All participants must pre-register.
Put a spin on a fall favorite, decorating a pumpkin. In this fun - and beautiful – class, Megan Miller will walk you through the art of hand-lettering and how to apply it to pumpkins. Each participant will take home a complete, brush-lettered artificial pumpkin that’s ready to wow your friends each fall.
Bring a sack lunch Ages 16 & up welcome
Join us for this fun, informative class that will show you just how many things you can pickle and the great benefits of yet another way to preserve your vegetables. The process will be discussed, a tasting will be had, and then everyone will get to try their hand at pickling one jar of vegetable relish to take home - this would make an awesome housewarming gift for Thanksgiving!
Sunday, October 23, 1-3pm
Wildcrafted Wreath Class:
Taught by Kenton Peters
Pumpkinville Tent
M $20/NM $23
Open to all ages but children will need adult supervision. Register by October 21
Create a wildcrafted wreath from scratch by weaving willow, vines, and other natural items into a beautiful focal point to adorn your home.
Membership with Myriad Botanical Gardens is 100 percent tax deductible and supports the Gardens’ continued success. As a member you will enjoy free perks such as admission to events like the popular Pumpkinville fall festival, the Children’s Garden Festival, and the Crystal Bridge Conservatory, as well as free skate rental with the purchase of Devon Ice Rink tickets during the holidays where the Gardens are glowing with lights, a carousel, pop-up shops and other festive family activities. Enjoy a 10 percent discount at the NEW Scissortail Gift Shop in the Gardens, as well as discounts on our educational programming including 50 percent off our annual Oklahoma Gardening School. A Gardens membership also benefits you when traveling. You can visit more than 300 gardens via the American Horticultural Society Reciprocal Admissions Program (RAP) where your Gardens membership entitles you to special admission privileges and discounts.
For more information contact Erin Zehren, Membership Manager and Development Associate, at (405) 445-7089 or emcfall@myriadgardens.org
Kids & Families
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 12, 10–11AM Fall Food Feast:
Calling All Kids (and Worms)!
Terrace Room and Children’s Garden
Roberta Rowland, Horticulture Staff
M $5; NM $7
Best for ages 6-10
Register by November 8
Worms are picky eaters but if you know what they like, they’ll happily clean up the scraps from your kitchen. We’ll celebrate the yummy foods of fall with a food tasting of our own and then play a game to learn what leftovers the worms will like. We’ll end with a fun worm related craft and then feed our worm friends our leftovers.
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 12, 11AM-2PM
Painting in the Gardens with Wine and Palette
South Lobby of Crystal Bridge
M $30, call (405) 227-0230
NM $35, register at wineandpalette.com
Wine and Palette will be at the Gardens to assist in creating a unique piece of art. On this day we’ll paint Winter Cardinal on a 16” x 20” canvas.
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 4, NOON-1PM
Tree Walk: Trees with The Best Fall Interest
Crystal Bridge South Lobby and Garden Grounds
Mark Bays, Urban Forester FREE (Suggested $5 donation)
Join Mark Bays, Oklahoma Forestry Services, Urban Forester and 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.
NOVEMBER 25-DECEMBER 31
HOURS TO BE ANNOUNCED
Merry Carousel in the Gardens
North Plaza by Great Lawn $2 per rider
All proceeds benefit the Myriad Gardens
The Myriad Gardens’ Merry Carousel is back for another year of holiday magic! Our charming vintage holiday carousel welcomed 1,000s of riders the last two years and is now a family tradition.
Adults
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 5, 2-4PM
Homemade Soap Workshop
Terrace Room;
Charlotte and Dan Hayer, Soap Crafters, Laughing Rabbit Soap Company
M $30; NM $35
Register by November 2
NOVEMBER 11 - JANUARY 29
Devon Ice Rink
Seasonal Plaza
M $7; NM $12 includes skate rental
$8 with your own skates
$8 10 or more group rate. Reservations required. Call (405) 708-6499
It wouldn’t be winter without the Devon Ice Rink at the Gardens! Skating season begins Friday, November 11, 2016. Bundle up, grab your friends and family and enjoy a great day of fresh air and skating in the prettiest spot in town.
Hours are Monday-Thursday 3-9pm; Friday 3-11pm; Saturday 11am–11pm; Sunday 11am–7pm. Winter Break extended hours to be announced.
Learn the art of soap making in this handson 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. Note: soap takes four weeks to set so it’s ready just in time for the December holidays!
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 12, 1-3PM
Botanical Drawing with Pen and Ink
Terrace Room & Crystal Bridge Conservatory
Debby Kaspari, natural history artist and illustrator
M $28; NM $32
Register by Nov. 8
Drawing plants in black and white, using fine tip felt pens. Pen and ink is a fun and effective technique. It’s easy to learn and superportable for on-the-go sketching. We’ll practice line drawing, stipple and cross hatch shading, and how to place strong darks for brilliant lighting effects. Paper and Sharpie felt tip pens will be supplied; a suggested optional supply list will be provided beforehand as well.
Kids & Families
WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 7 AND 14, 10:30-11:30AM
Holiday Series: December Drop-Ins
South Lobby
$2 per child
Best for ages 2-5 Groups of 10 or more contact Lily Christman at (405) 445-5162
After Reading
Wednesdays 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, DECEMBER 3, 10, 17
Saturdays with Santa Devon’s Saturdays with Santa, 10am-4pm Crystal Bridge Tropical Conservatory FREE 9am-5pm
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.
SUNDAY, DECEMBER 11, 11AM-1PM
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 3, 2-4PM Living Wreath Class Terrace Room
Dr. Ann Fleener, Director of Education and Roberta Rowland, Horticulture Staff
Succulent Wreath $75 M; $85 NM Evergreen Wreath $45 M; $55 NM
Register by November 18
Devon’s Saturday’s with Santa will expand into the Gardens again this year; families can enjoy food trucks, FREE admission to the Crystal Bridge Tropical Conservatory, crafts, and performances. 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 beautiful winter backdrop for your family photos. While you’re here, be sure to visit the Devon Ice Rink and our other holiday attractions.
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 3, 10AM-NOON
Gingerbread House Workshop
Terrace Room
M $30; NM $35
Register by November 21
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.
Painting in the Gardens SERIES with Wine and Palette South Lobby of Crystal Bridge
M: $20, register by calling (405) 227-0230
NM: $25 register at wineandpalette.com/ calendar.asp
Join Wine and Palette at the Gardens as they assist in creating a unique piece of art. On this day we’ll paint Olaf’s “Warm Hugs” on 11” x 14” canvas.
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 17, 10-11:30AM Kid’s Winter Art Workshop Terrace Room; Jeanne Parkhurst, art teacher extraordinaire
M $12; NM $15
Register by December 13 Best for ages 6-10
Back by popular demand! 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.
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 10, 10AM-NOON
DIY Handmade Stamps and Holiday Stationery
Terrace Room
Cecilia Otero, Artist and Illustrator
M $35; NM $40
Register by November 28
Kids will have a blast with one of our favorite local artists, Jeanne Parkhurst, as she leads this educational and fun, hands-on art workshop inspired by a winter garden theme. A variety of age-appropriate materials will be provided to create small artworks, gifts and cards - just in time for the holidays!
In this workshop you will learn the basics of printmaking, create your own holiday stamp(s), then make your own unique Holiday cards and stationery set. The goal of the class is to broaden your knowledge of printmaking and learn simple ways to spruce up holiday cards in a personalized way. Supplies are included in cost and after the workshop are yours to take home and continue creating with!
GUIDED SCAVENGER HUNTS, SCHOOL PROGRAMS, ADVENTURE PACKS
Why not make a day of it?
Once you’ve booked your Adventure Pack, consider one of our other great visit options:
Indoor and Outdoor Guided and Self-Guided Tours
Crystal Bridge Conservatory Guided Scavenger Hunts School Programs
Visit myriadgardens.org for more information and to book your visit today. Adventure Packs are not available on weekends. Adventure Packs are limited. Consider booking in advance. Call (405) 835-6789.
WEducation Spotlight
By Dr. Ann Fleener, Director of Education
e’re very excited to announce the launch of our Adventure Packs program. This program is for both school groups and families and was made possible by a grant from the Hogan Taylor Foundation. Thanks to this great grant, the Adventure Packs are available for FREE until July of 2017.
The packs are designed to provide a selfguided adventure and get kids and parents to interact with the Children’s Garden in a way they might not otherwise. We were first inspired to create these packs when we saw that many people come into the Children’s Garden and hang out primarily on the playground side. While we want families to make use of our great playground space, we also want to see them utilizing the gardens and learning about the amazing plants and animals it contains. The adventure packs are designed to encourage kids, teachers and families to do just that.
Each pack comes with a scavenger hunt, coloring sheet, binoculars, and adventure sheets that guide kiddos through the many parts of the garden. For instance, one part of the Children’s Garden is for pollinators. It has lots of friendly pollinator visitors every year! The pollinator adventure sheet teaches
kids how to do “The Bee Waggle Dance” and encourages them to try on our bug glasses and see what a bee sees when they look at a flower. The Children’s Garden also has a giant bird nest, a wildlife pond and an edible garden. There are adventure sheets on each of these areas as well that discuss birds being builders, the life cycle of a frog, and much more. The adventure packs address each of the learning styles as children read, write, dance, sing, build, look, listen and draw.
The packs are geared towards 2nd to 4th grade students but with a little help can be adaptable down to Kindergarten and up to 6th grade. They are available for checkout Monday through Friday 10am to 4pm. Walkups are welcome and can check out a pack with our Guest Services Representatives in the Crystal Bridge South Lobby. Groups of 10 or more must book in advance.
Our very own Education Assistant, Awen Clifford, created these amazing packs and is managing the program. Call her at (405) 835-6789 to book your own adventure today.
We hope to see you here soon, binoculars in hand!
Volunteers At the Gardens
By Lori Coats, Volunteer Coordinator
Summer VolunTEENs Serve Nearly 550 Hours
After ten weeks of volunteerism, the 2016 VolunTEEN Program concluded August 15 with an End-of-the-Summer pizza party. This team of eleven high school students represented nine different high schools across the OKC Metro and ranged from freshmen to seniors. This summer, our VolunTEENS assisted with a variety of duties including: helping in the Children’s Garden during Weekly Walk-Ups, greeting guests in the Crystal Bridge Conservatory, working with our horticulture
staff, arts and crafts, assisting with public events, office and clerical assistance plus a variety of miscellaneous jobs at the Gardens. Together, these students gave a total of 542.5 volunteer hours! We would like to thank each of them for their hard work and for bringing so much joy to the Gardens. We have really appreciated and enjoyed these kids. We’ll begin accepting applications for the 2017 VolunTEENs program on November 1, 2016; find the application at myriadgardens.org
Become a Partner Volunteer
Myriad Gardens’ Partner Volunteers make a commitment, and in return receive a wonderful list of benefits for their time and effort.
Requirements
• Must agree to volunteer a minimum of 36 hours per year
• Must be 18 years of age or older
• Complete a simple application and background check
Benefits
• Receive a free parking pass to use while volunteering at the Gardens
• $20 off Myriad Botanical Gardens Membership
• Reduced/Complimentary access to various Myriad Gardens’ special events, including all education programs at staff price
• Receive free, instructional orientation and trainings
• Receive free admission plus 10 free passes to our Spring and Fall Festivals to share with your family & friends
• Invitation to our Annual Appreciation Banquet and Holiday Party
• Opportunities to guide indoor and outdoor garden tours
For more information email Lori Coats at lcoats@myriadgardens.org
Front Row: Jada Evans, Katelynn Potts, Jacquelyne Hernandez, Lillebeth Backes, Kailey O’Connor. Back Row: Carson Schlittler, and Johnathan Taylor .
Splendor
IN THE GARDENS
It’s a wrap!
Splendor in the Gardens, is our biennial, alfresco-style fundraising dinner for Myriad Botanical Gardens.
This year’s event, held on June 16, had 350 participants who enjoyed cocktails in the Park House followed by a sunset walk through the Meinders Gardens and out to the Great Lawn where they enjoyed an elegant, farm-to-table style dinner.
Co-chairs Amy Harlow and Steve Mason, along with cocktail party chairs Linda Haneborg and Gail Huneryager and the event planning committee, led our fundraising efforts. Thanks to the event’s presenting sponsor, The Chickasaw Nation and the Dean A. McGee Visionary Tribute sponsor, Gardner Tannenbaum Holdings, along with all of our sponsors and attendees, netted $150,000 for the Gardens’ annual operating costs.
The Glenn Rapp Foundation has pledged a total of $200,000 towards this fund if the Gardens can raise an equal amount over the next three years. This endowment fund when fully matched, will reach $400,000 and help ensure that every spring, our gardens will dazzle the downtown with thousands of tulips, daffodils and hyacinths to delight all visitors.
Of this amount, $50,000 will be used to receive a matching grant of $50,000 from The Glenn Rapp Foundation, to start a permanent endowment fund for spring flowering bulb purchases.
A dream team of top local chefs that included: Kurt Fleischfresser of Vast, Kamala Gamble of Kam’s Kookery and Allison Darke of Brown Egg Bakery, all donated their time and artistry to this event. Joullian Vineyards and Winery provided the wines.
The Gardens relies on the generosity of donors at all levels to keep the Gardens beautiful and vibrant.
Stewarding this wonderful treasure that is the Myriad Botanical Gardens indeed takes a village and we thank everyone involved for their generosity and commitment to the Gardens’ continual improvements.
Splendor in the Gardens will return in all its splendor in 2018!
Splendor in the Gardens co-chairs Amy Harlow and Steve Mason.
Photo by Carl Shortt Jr.
Thank you to our sponsors & chefs!
PRESENTING SPONSOR
GARDEN LEADER SPONSOR McGee Foundation
Gold Sponsors
ADG, PC
First Mortgage Company
Mrs. Henry Freede
Jean I. Everest Foundation
Manhattan Construction
Mason Realty Investors
Silver Sponsors
Barkocy Construction
Ben E. Keith
Bob Moore Land Rover
Crowe and Dunlevy
Enable Midstream Partners
First National Bank of Oklahoma
Aimee and David Harlow
Bronze Sponsors
Accel Financial Staffing
American Fidelity Foundation
Serena and Wesley Anderson
BC Clark Jewelers
Mr. and Mrs. Michael Belanger
Annie Bohanon
Gerry and Ken Bonds
Tatianna Cannon
Janie and Bill Comstock
Delta Dental
Downtown OKC, Inc.
Hillary, Peter & Rowan Farrell
Karen and Warren Filley
First Liberty Bank
Kris and Bill Frankfurt
Joan Frates
Ginny Greenberg
Kirsten and David Griffin
Jane Harlow
Maureen Heffernan
Stacy and Mark McDaniel
Midtown Renaissance
In-Kind
110 Events
Great Plains Coca Cola
MidAmerica Roofing
Midtown Renaissance
Olive & Company
Signs By Tomorrow
Swat Mosquito Mist System
Janeen Naifeh
Newmark Grubb Levy
Strange Beffort
Polly and Larry Nichols
St. Anthony Hospital
Beth and James Tolbert
HoganTaylor LLP
Marta and Mark McCubbin
Potts Family Foundation
The Petroleum Club
Presbyterian Health Foundation
Tricia Everest
Williams, Box, Forshee & Bullard, P.C.
Hedra and Harry Merson
Mock Foundation
Oklahoma City Convention and Visitors Bureau
Camilla and David Ostrowe
Gayle and Richard Parry
Paycom
Libby and Morton Payne
Kent E. Phillips
Joy and Roger Quinn
Janice and Lee Segell
Beth and Carl Shortt
Anne and Gregory Skuta
Shyla and John Slay
Southwestern Stationery & Bank Supply
Marnie and Clayton Taylor
Total Enviroment
UMB Bank
Vicki Vanstavern and Don Narcomey
Chefs & Winery
Kurt Fleischfresser, Vast Kamala Gamble, Kam’s Kookery
Allison Dake, Brown Egg Bakery
John McBryde, Prairie Thunder Bakery Joullian Vineyards & Winery
Cocktail Party appetizers were generously provided by Diana Buthion of Bellinni’s and Bruce Rinehart of Rococo’s
Father's Day 5K & Fun Run
Bug Out! Dancing in the Gardens
Our most popular social media Yoga Tuesdays
International Mud Day
MEMBER SPOTLIGHT
Steven & Zheila Dennis
From romantic dates to the proposal and the wedding, to yoga Tuesdays, the Gardens is truly Steven and Zhelia’s happy place!
By Erin Zehren, Membership Manager & Development Associate
Steven & Zheila Dennis both grew up in Oklahoma City. As young professionals, they now work downtown and have been members of Myriad Gardens since 2014. After Yoga in the Gardens on a Tuesday evening, we had a picnic on the Great Lawn where the couple told me about their experience with the Gardens.
How did you decide to become a member?
“It seemed like a natural next step to become members of the Gardens, as we spent so much of our free time here, enjoying the different events, and especially the Devon Ice Skating. We were married in the Gardens and we visited so often, it just made sense to become members”.
What was it that made you decide to be married at the Gardens?
“This place has been our favorite for years. During one date night, we walked around visiting all the places we liked to go in downtown. The last place was the water stage at the Myriad Gardens. Steven proposed to me there, and we were determined after that, we HAD to get married in that same place. We loved the look of a garden wedding while still having a city vibe. It was great to be in the middle of the city and outdoors while still capturing the cozy and intimate setting we had hoped for.”
What are some of your favorite programs and events at the Gardens?
“We love the fitness and active events a lot; but we also LOVE the Sonic Summer Movie Nights. This is a great place to bring family. We take out-of-town guests to the Crystal Bridge Tropical Conservatory, and we take our young nephew to Pumpkinville & other children’s events.
How often are you able to use your Myriad Gardens Membership?
We probably use our membership about oneto-three times per week. We keep up with what is going on via social media as well as this newsletter. We try to make sure we are getting the most out of our membership!
Which membership benefit do you take advantage of the most?
Definitely the free yoga on Tuesdays!
Yoga Tuesdays, sponsored by Tinker Federal Credit Union, begins promptly at 5:45pm. Check-in in the south lobby. FREE for members, $10 nonmembers. Bring mat & water.
Susan Grossman Named Director of Development for the Gardens
Susan Grossman began her career as a journalist after earning a degree in Letters from the University of Oklahoma and has covered everything from crime to fashion on local, national and international levels. After a 10-year hiatus to raise kids and live in Europe, Susan returned to Oklahoma where she assumed the higher education and political beat for the Norman Transcript. From there she served as managing editor of Oklahoma Gazette, worked in marketing and public relations for the University of Oklahoma, and most recently spent six years as development officer for the 11 branch libraries in the Pioneer Library System headquartered in Norman. She is committed to producing good writing, reading great books, and is a firm believer in the transformative power of philanthropy and community engagement. In her spare time Susan writes feature stories for a regional sports magazine and the OU alumni magazine, and enjoys writing personal essays, cooking, fitness, adventure traveling, spending time with her young adult children, and maintaining what is left of her ability to speak French.
Bradley Fowler, Gardener
Bradley Fowler has always been fascinated by the beauty and mysteries of nature. Born and residing in Oklahoma his whole life, he was first introduced to gardening at young age. His family’s vegetable garden as a child fascinated him and led him to garden as a hobby. This fascination with growing and learning about plants is what led him to pursue a career in Horticulture. Bradley is currently attending Oklahoma State University in Oklahoma City for a General Studies Degree, and has plans to pursue an Associates of Applied Science in Horticulture from there as well. Bradley is excited for the opportunity to learn more as he helps maintain such a beautiful part of Oklahoma City.
Stephanie Lee, Public Events Associate
Stephanie Lee joined the Gardens in July as Public Event Associate to the increasingly active Events Department. She grew up in South Texas where she found passion for event planning while working in the restaurant industry. Stephanie will assist with upcoming popular events such as Pumpkville, Saturdays with Santa and the Myriad Life Program. She loves being in Oklahoma City and is engaged to get married in April 2017. Before joining the Myriad Gardens, Stephanie started her event planning career with the Girl Scouts of Western Oklahoma, where she learned the value of giving back to the community.
Olivia Tegeler, Children’s Garden Intern
Olivia Tegeler has been a resident of Norman, Oklahoma her entire life. From her sophomore to senior year in high school, Olivia took horticulture classes, created numerous floral arrangements for State Fair competitions and school events, and participated in the Floriculture Career Development Event competition through FFA. It was during this time that her interest in pursuing a degree and career in horticulture grew. In August 2015, she began working in the Children’s Garden and pursuing a Horticulture Technology degree at Oklahoma State University- Oklahoma City. Olivia loves the mix of gardening, creativity and education that comes with the job of working in the Children’s Garden, and she is excited to inspire children and adults of all ages through her work.
With beautifully landscaped acres of formal and natural gardens, the Myriad Botanical Gardens offers you a choice of so many striking places to gather for your next happening. The Park House Events Center is new in the lineup to rent for your special occasion. It’s perfect for corporate events, weddings, wedding receptions, networking events, birthday celebrations and more. With its natural light and striking panoramic views of the Gardens, breathtaking sunsets and nighttime glow of the Crystal Bridge Tropical Conservatory, the Events Center will make your next gathering a truly special occasion. The Events Center holds 120 people for a ceremony, 120 guests for dinner and 200 for a standing reception. Prices vary depending on day of the week and more.
The realization of the unique vision of the Myriad 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 120,000 people were in attandence to events, Crystal Bridge attendance, educational classes, the water features, facility rentals and just for a getaway picnic or good walk with your Fitbit.
To maintain and continually enhance this treasure for all of Oklahoma City, the Myriad Gardens Foundaiton must annually 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 calling (405) 445-7080.
There’s something for everyone during the holidays at Myriad Botanical Gardens
Devon Ice Rink
Saturdays with Santa Winter Shoppes
OG&E Merry & Bright Sunday Nights
Merry Carousel at Myriad Gardens
Thanks to our signature holiday sponsors Devon & OG&E
