The Bridge | Fall 2017

THE BRIDGE MYRIAD BOTANICAL GARDENS NEWSLETTER | FALL 2017

INSIDE THIS ISSUE Tree For All, November 4, presented by Cox Bulb Planting Tips for Spring Blooms 301 W. RENO | OKLAHOMA CITY, OK 73102 | MYRIADGARDENS.ORG

INSIDE THIS ISSUE

Myriad Gardens Foundation 1

A Letter from the Director

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Sixth Annual Pumpkinville

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Orchids in October

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Horticulture Happenings

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Calendar of Events

13 Education 15

Winter

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 Gardner Tanenbaum Holdings Herman and LaDonna Meinders Robert H. Meinders Newmark Grubb Levy Strange Beffort OGE Energy Corp.

The Oklahoman Oklahoma City Economic Development Trust The City of Oklahoma City

Executive Board of Directors

Community Board Members

Chairman J. Larry Nichols*

Paul Lefebvre, President

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

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

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 Andy Rine Lynn Robberson D. Joe Rockett Kim Searls Marsha See Carl Shortt Beth Wells Roy H. Williams

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 yearround horticultural, cultural and recreational programs and events for all.

3 PUMPKINVILLE

5 ORCHIDS IN OCTOBER

7 ORCHIDS IN OCTOBER

10 DEVON ICE RINK SEASON

On the cover: Goldenrod. Solidago speciosa. Photo by Doug Hoke.

DEAR MEMBERS & GARDENS FRIENDS

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came across a saying earlier this year that resonated for me. “If you don’t Uber yourself, you’ll get Kodak’ed.” In other words, continuous improvement and innovation is needed or you’ll be left behind in today’s marketplace.

Continuous improvement is definitely a core value we strive to achieve at Myriad Gardens.

We work to ensure our 15-acres are beautiful and active with quality programs that offer fun and education for all ages. But that is not good enough. We also have to innovate and that is often best achieved by listening to our visitor’s feedback.

We kept getting feedback about the need for more shady garden places to sit and quietly enjoy lovely views. We kept this in mind when an underused shady area needed to have plantings replaced in it that were not thriving. Instead of just replacing them, we took the opportunity to design a new shade retreat for visitors. Thanks to a very generous naming gift from Glenna and Richard Tanenbaum as well as grants from the Kirkpatrick Fund, People and Public Spaces Initiative from the Oklahoma The new shade garden under construction at the Gardens.

City Community Foundation and Oklahoma City Water Trust, this new garden is currently being constructed with completion in late November.

A new tree planting sale and program first offered last year will be significantly enhanced this year. Tree for All sponsored by Cox Conserves on November 4 (see page 12) will offer 200 free trees and sell an additional nearly 1,000 trees for only $5-$10 to encourage planting trees to make OKC greener and greater for both people and wildlife who depend on trees for habitat and food.

“Continuous improvement is definitely a core value we strive to achieve at Myriad Gardens.”

– Maureen Heffernan

Look for new outdoor interpretive signage in our Prairie Garden and the new shade garden that will enhance visitor’s horticultural knowledge. This fall, our horticulture staff is hard at work planting even more spring bulbs than last year to create dazzling displays next spring. When our Devon Ice Rink opens this year on November 10, look for a new seating area to enjoy hot coco while watching all the fun on the rink.

Please keep your feedback coming on how we can improve.

Your continued support makes these and other improvements possible and we extend our sincerest thanks to you.

Sincerely,

Maureen Heffernan Executive Director P.S. Jingle Mingle for members return Thursday, November 30 from 5-7 p.m. Please join us at this free reception to enjoy holiday décor, refreshments, a silent auction and discounts at Scissortail Gift shop. (see page 20).

Plant: Hops. Humulus lupulus Photo by Doug Hoke

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Sincere Thanks to All of Our Generous Pumpkinville Sponsors

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Photo by Doug Hoke

Jil & Tony Boghetich

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Governor Anoatubby Honored at 2017 Orchids in October

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honor, the Charles Shusterman Award for Excellence.

he Board of Directors of the Myriad Gardens Foundation is pleased to announce The Chickasaw Nation’s Governor Bill Anoatubby as the 2017 recipient of the James R. Tolbert III Crystal Orchid Award. This award is an annual tribute to those who significantly advance and support Myriad Botanical Gardens. The award program was held on Wednesday, October 25 at the Water Stage followed by lunch in the Park House.

Their sponsorship has helped us provide yearround quality education programs for schools and families as well as seasonal events and health and wellness programs. Thanks to their support, many of these programs are either free or low cost so all in the community can enjoy and learn from them. Their sponsorship of our major fundraising events, Splendor in the Gardens and The Art of Flowers, has helped us raise hundreds of thousands of dollars over the last five years.

Governor Anoatubby and The Chickasaw Nation are generous and forward thinking cornerstones of support for many nonprofits that serve to improve the quality of life in our city and state. Through their generous support over the last five years, The Chickasaw Nation In all, Governor Anoatubby and the Chickasaw and Governor Anoatubby, have enabled the Myriad Governor Bill Anoatubby Nation’s belief in and generosity towards Gardens Foundation to continually enhance the beauty Myriad Botanical Gardens’ development, has of the gardens and quality of our public programs which enormously helped the Gardens become a magnetic point of intense ultimately led to the Gardens’ being selected in 2015 as co-winner beauty and vibrant activity for more than a million visitors a year. of the prestigious Urban Land Institute’s International Urban Open Space Award and Oklahoma Center for Nonprofits ONE award top

GOLD

BENEFACTOR

Ackerman McQueen Jeaneen Naifeh Calvert’s Plant Interiors Richard Sias Fred Jones Family Foundation Lee Allen Smith, Barry Switzer Josephine Freede & Blake Wade Gertrude and Aaron Karcher Foundation SILVER UNDERWRITER

Jean & David McLaughlin Nancy & George Records Southwestern Stationery & Bank Supply PLATINUM

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Devon Energy Jax Investments Jean I. Everest Foundation Meinders Foundation OGE Energy Corp.

Oklahoma City Thunder Avis & Phil Scaramucci Beth & Jim Tolbert Total Environment Turf Team

Architectural Design Grou, Inc. American Fidelty Foundation BKD Foundation Center for Economic Development Law Central Liquor Co. Clements Food Foundation Crowe & Dunlevy Shirley Dearborn, M.D. Dobson Technologies

Nancy P. Ellis Ginny & Bob Greenberg Leslie & Cliff Hudson McGee Eye Institute Mercedes-Benz of Oklahoma Gene Rainbolt Marsha & Carson See Smith & Pickel Construction Williams, Box, Forshee & Bullard PC

BRONZE Sue Ann Arnall & Steve Agee B.C. Clark Jewelers BKI Energy Resources Jil & Tony Boghetich Susan & Carl Edwards Karen & Warren Filley Gray, Blodgett & Company Hall Estill Maureen Heffernan Seyan & John Hefner

Dr. Jan and President Robert Henry HoganTaylor LLP Linda & Ken Howell Barbara and Marvin Jirous Kerr Foundation Debora & Ronnie Morey Glenda Payne Libby & Morton Payne RKI Energy Resources Shirley & Ben Shanker

Scissortail Park – A Vision Takes Shape

Students from the YMCA/John Rex Elementary School program help unveil the new name of the MAPS 3 Park as Scissortail Park on June 29, 2017.

By Maureen Heffernan, Executive Director

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ith the new Scissortail Park located just steps away from Myriad Gardens, The City of Oklahoma City invited the Myriad Gardens Foundation to take on its management when it opens in 2019.

We are honored to take on this responsibility and will do our best to successfully manage the new park in partnership with the City of Oklahoma City so it meets the public’s expectation. We’ll be creating a new Park Management Company nonprofit that will oversee the management of Myriad Gardens Foundation and Scissortail Park Foundation as related yet independent organizations.

Creating a major new park is a visionary MAPS 3 project for Oklahoma City that will create an incredible legacy for future generations to enjoy. Named Scissortail Park by a community vote last spring, this $145 million project will completely transform 70 acres of downtown land.

Divided into an upper and lower park, the upper park is about 38-acres that starts just two blocks south of Myriad Gardens and is bordered by Hudson and Robinson Avenues and by Union Station and Skydance Bridge. The 32-acre lower park extends south of Skydance Bridge and runs to the Oklahoma River in an L shape as shown on the map.

The new park features an extensive lawn with a band shell designed for both modest to massive gatherings; a six-acre lake with a boathouse offering paddleboats for rent; an innovative children’s playground; a café and food truck area; a large interactive fountain space for kids; a covered roller rink pavilion; dog park and more. Nearly 1,000 trees will be planted in the upper park along with tens of thousands of ornamental grasses and flowering plants to create a lushly green oasis.

As described by the MAPS 3 office, “Scissortail Park will be the crown jewel of Oklahoma City’s public realm improvements, the keystone urban open space linking downtown to the riverfront, and a major catalyst for the revitalization of the surrounding Core to Shore district over the next 50 years. The Park will represent an evolving, forward-looking identify of Oklahoma City, a model for sustainable urban development and the transformative capacity of public projects.

The Upper Park will open in 2019 with the Lower Park opening in 2021-22.

Scissortail Park aspires to be a new innovative urban park that is: Lively year round; connected to nearby neighborhoods, the downtown core and river trails; safe, healthy and comfortable for all ages and abilities; ecologically diverse; enterprising, resilient and manageable.”

This is an exciting time for Myriad Gardens Foundation as it evolves to take on the park’s management. Watch for updates of progress and a walking tour schedule of the new park as it is constructed.

Maureen Heffernan and Jim Tolbert, chair, Scissortail Park Foundation Board of Trustees, participate in the new park groundbreaking.

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Horticulture Happenings

Planting Bulbs is an Investment in Spring

By Nate Tschaenn, Director of Horticulture

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nlike planting annuals or perennials, there is no instant payoff to planting bulbs. When the job is done, the ground looks the same as before. Planting bulbs is an investment in spring. They must be planted in the fall because they require a chilling period in order to initiate growth. So we put our faith in these unremarkable dormant bulbs and wait all winter in anticipation of spring. And it’s worth it.

In early spring, when little else is blooming, they carpet the ground in masses of bright colors. The colorful displays provide relief and enjoyment to thousands of visitors, desperate for color to return to the landscape after the bleak winter.

and add several thousand daffodils and other bulbs to our spring displays. Daffodils and other bulbs Nate Tschaenn can be left in the ground and will rebloom each spring, but tulip bulbs are removed after flowering and planted again each year.

Horticulture staff Kaitlin Bacon and Josh Berry plant bulbs in the Meinders Terrace.

Planning for the spring bulb display begins in early summer of the previous year when the bulb order is placed.

This fall, the hardworking horticulture staff will plant 35,000 tulips

There are several different types of tulip and daffodils that bloom at different times. They are generally separated into early, mid or late blooming varieties.

Early, mid or late bulbs can be mixed together to extend the bloom display or several different colors of the same type of bulb can be used to create a more intense, but shorter, burst of color. A mix of the early double tulip ‘Monte Carlo’ with the single late tulip ‘Negrita’ proved quite popular. The purple ‘Negrita’ was just coming into bloom as the yellow ‘Monte Carlo’ was fully open.

The Time is Now! Planting Bulbs for Spring Blooms Planting bulbs is quite simple. You can plant tulip or daffodils in an existing garden bed for early color before most perennials have started growing and before annuals are planted. They should be planted in well-drained soil in full or part sun.

phosphorous fertilizer like bone meal into the bottom of the hole. Place the bulb in the hole with the pointy side up and the flat side, which has the roots, down. If you accidently plant upside down, the bulb will still flower but may be slightly delayed.

Before planting, it can be helpful to lay out the bulbs where you want them in order to keep track of where you have planted. Tulips should be planted four to six inches apart.

Daffodils will spread a little each year and can be placed a little further apart at six to eight inches. Use a trowel to dig a hole six inches deep just slightly wider than the bulb. For perennial bulbs like daffodils, you can mix a high

After flowering, you can remove the flower stalks from daffodils but allow the foliage to remain until it dies back on its own. Tulips do not usually return each year with much vigor, so they are usually treated as annuals and removed after flowering. If you plan on keeping for more than one year, fertilize when planting and in the spring with a slow release fertilizer.

What’s in Bloom Structure Now Available in the South Lobby Come see what’s in bloom at the gardens. In an effort to help you locate our more colorful attractions, we have created a new display in the South Lobby entrance of the Crystal Bridge. By highlighting what plants are currently in bloom, you’ll be able to keep track of not only what to look for in our garden but also gain ideas for your own. By utilizing our color-coordinated map, you’ll be able to easily find the location of each flower on display. We hope that this will not only draw your attention to the beauty of the grounds but also showcase the variety of plant life we have here at the Myriad Gardens.

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Buffalo Grass Newly Added to the Gardens

By Josh Berry, Horticulturist/Plant Recorder

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id your lawn beat the heat this summer? Did you have to mow every week, water every other day and fertilize more than you wanted to? If these questions give you some unease, buffalo grass may be an ideal alternative.

In developing our collection to be ever more diverse and highlight drought tolerant and native plants, the horticulture Josh Berry staff has installed a new planting of buffalo grass (Bouteloua dactyloides ‘Bowie’).

The grass has a gray-green color and fine texture. Come check it out on the east side of the dog park.

Buffalo grass is a major component of the Great Plains short grass prairies. The roots can grow nearly eight feet deep, sustaining it during minimal precipitation. In contrast, Kentucky blue grass roots are just a few inches. Most cultivars of buffalo grass will be around six inches when fully grown. Since it spreads by stolons (stems that run along the ground), it will fill in quickly and can help hold soil on slopes.

Interested in growing this native grass as a turf? You should keep these things in mind. Buffalo grass is for full sun locations (6-8 hours of direct light); it will be very thin in the shade. Plant it during the spring, either with seed, sod or plugs, and keep well-watered when establishing. Most cultivars are sensitive to broadleaf herbicides; so hand weeding is ideal. It won’t handle high foot traffic. Choose it for areas with little activity or install stepping stones where you need them.

Plant Labels Get A Makeover Our plant labels are getting a new look.

New labels currently being added around the Gardens feature larger text and simple symbols on the bottom of the labels to highlight additional features of certain plants, such as pollinator friendly or drought tolerant. New labels were made possible in part thanks to a grant from the Oklahoma City Water Trust.

Butterfly = Attracts pollinators Bird = Attracts birds Water drop = Conserves water Emblem = Oklahoma Proven Oklahoma = Native to Oklahoma

Weather Station New to Children’s Garden

By Abby Curry, Children’s Garden Manager

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t the Myriad Gardens’ Children’s Garden, we always strive to supply ample opportunity for children to observe, learn, and of course have fun. Our newest addition to the Children’s Garden, the Weather Station, will give children and adults alike just such an opportunity. Visitors will be able to get an up-close look at how a rain barrel works, while also gaining some valuable tips on water conservation. Budding meteorologists Abby Curry will be able to predict changes in weather by checking the barometer, measure rainfall using the rain gauge and determine wind direction by observing our weathervane. The Weather Station also features a hygrometer and giant thermometer, perfect for little eyes. Children’s curiosity will no doubt be piqued as they actively observe Oklahoma’s ever-changing weather.

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G ARD E NS E VE NT S 2 017 ONGOING TUESDAYS, 5:45PM

Yoga Series Sponsored by Tinker Federal Credit Union

Late arrivals not accepted after 5:50PM Outdoors or in the Terrace Room depending on weather SPONSORED BY M: $5; NM: $10 Must be 16 and older This is a great, all-levels class led by Lisa Woodward from This Land Yoga. Class participants should bring a yoga mat and water. Class participants will meet in the south lobby for check-in each week.

Drop in for a session or two or enjoy the entire series!

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 5 RUN, 5:30PM; BIKE RIDE, 6PM

Full Moon Bike Ride and Run LAST RUN AND RIDE OF THE SEASON $5 per person for each event

PRESENTED BY Join other runners in a 5K run, led by Ultramax Sports Oklahoma, through the scenic downtown area as the sun sets. Those who pay $5 will be entered in a drawing for prizes from Red Coyote Running and Fitness.

Bring your bike and meet up a for a leisurely one hour ride. Downtown-area routes are specially planned by Schlegel Bicycles. Don’t have a bike?

Rent a Spokie! Lights and helmets are required.

Those who pay $5 will be entered in a drawing for prizes from Schlegel Bicycles.

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| Register online myriadgardens.org

NOVEMBER 10, 2017 - JANUARY 28, 2018

Painting in the Gardens with Wine and Palette “Pumpkins and Susans”

Devon Ice Rink

Seasonal Plaza M $7 per person, includes skate rental NM $13 per person, includes skate rental NM $8 per person if you bring your own skates Groups 10+ $9 per person, advanced registration required Each holiday season, the Gardens transforms its seasonal plaza into the Devon Ice Rink, making for a winter wonderland set in a bustling downtown setting. At Devon Ice Rink, you can skate across 5,500 square feet of real ice, and indulge in seasonal food and beverage offerings.

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 18, 9-10:30AM

Learn to Curl

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 19, 11AM-1PM

TAUGHT BY

Devon Ice Rink M: $20; NM: $25 Advanced registration required

by November 17 Normally sells out!

Club members will walk you through the basic rules and etiquette of curling, explain the how’s and why’s of delivering and sweeping a stone and get you on the ice enjoying the sport of curling with friends or family! Dress warm, wear rubber soled shoes and prepare for a fun morning on the ice! All other equipment will be provided by the Oklahoma Curling Club.

Terrace Room M: $30 to register call (405) 227-0230 NM: $35 register online at wineandpalette.com Join Wine and Palette for a fall Painting in the Gardens! Paint the “Pumpkins and Susans” on a 16x20 canvas.

SUNDAYS, NOVEMBER 26, DECEMBER 3, 10 AND 17, 6-9PM

OG&E Merry & Bright Free Admission Sundays Crystal Bridge FREE

PRESENTED BY

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.

G ARDE NS E VE NT S 2017 FRIDAY, DECEMBER 1, 6-8PM

Festive Fridays: Polar Express PJ Party Park House Event Center M Child: $15; NM Child: $17 ALL Adults: $8

Do you BELIEVE? Join us for an evening of holiday festivities in the Park House Event Center. Guests will be able to ice skate at the Devon Ice Rink, drink hot cocoa and create Polar Express crafts! Our special guests, Santa, will also make an appearance at some point in the evening and read The Polar Express to children in attendance. Each child will receive a bell from Santa’s Sleigh. Wear your PJs to get in the spirit.

Advance registration is required by Thursday, November 30 at noon.

SATURDAYS, DECEMBER 2, 9 & 16

Saturdays with Santa

Crystal Bridge Tropical Conservatory 9am-5pm Crystal Bridge Hours-FREE 10am-4pm Devon’s Saturday’s with Santa Activities FREE, all ages welcome 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 and entertainment inside the Crystal Bridge.

Our herbal Christmas display with floral arrangements and festive displays will adorn the Bridge, while the outdoor grounds will be decked with boughs of holly and greenery, making a beautiful winter backdrop for your family photos.

While you’re here, be sure to visit the Devon Ice Rink and our other holiday attractions.

REGISTER ONLINE! IT’S EASY.

MYRIADGARDENS.ORG

| Register online myriadgardens.org

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 2, 9-10:30AM SATURDAY, DECEMBER 16, 10:30AM

Learn to Curl

TAUGHT BY

Devon Ice Rink M: $20; NM: $25 Advanced registration required by November 17 The winter Olympics are upon us! Here’s one Olympic sport you can learn to perfect with the Oklahoma Curling Club. Club members will walk you through the basic rules and etiquette of curling, explain the how’s and why’s of delivering and sweeping a stone and get you on the ice enjoying the sport of curling with friends or family! Dress warm, wear rubber soled shoes and prepare for a fun morning on the ice! All other equipment will be provided by the Oklahoma Curling Club.

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 3, 11AM-1PM

Painting in the Gardens with Wine & Palette “Polar Express” Terrace Room M: $20 to register call (405) 227-0230 NM: $25 register online at wineandpalette.com

All aboard! Join Wine and Palette for Painting in the Gardens to create a winter wonderland favorite. Paint the “Polar Express” on a 11x14 canvas.

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 8, 6:30-7:30PM

Festive Fridays: Santa Paws

Dog Park or Terrace Room-weather dependent M: $5 per member dog SPONSORED BY NM: $10 per non-member dog Are you in need of a Christmas card photo with your fur baby this year? Well, the Gardens have just the ticket for you!

Join us for photos with Santa, mingle with other dogs or make a paw print stocking for your mantle. Advance registration is required by Thursday, December 5 at noon. This program may sell out!

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 15, 6-8PM

Festive Fridays: Sensory Santa Evening

Crystal Bridge Tropical Conservatory M: $8 per participant, adults FREE NM: $12 per participant, adults FREE An event for families with children with special needs, join us inside the Crystal Bridge Tropical Conservatory for an evening with Santa. This event provides a more controlled and welcoming environment for a Santa Photo Experience. We will have festive booths with activities for the children. Santa will be in a designated spot for photos throughout the evening.

No loud music. A light snack will be provided for registered participants. Registered guests that need handicap accessible parking should contact Nicole Kusnierz for details at nkusinerz@myriadgardens.org

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 17, 11AM-2PM

Painting in the Gardens with Wine and Palette “DIY Pet Portraits”

Terrace Room M: $40 register by calling 405-227-0230 NM: $45 register online at wineandpalette.com We want your pet photos! Join Wine and Palette for Painting in the Gardens “DIY Pet Portraits” send in a photo from our Santa Paws event or just a fun loving photo of your pet and recreate the photo on a 16x20 canvas. Participants will need to email their photo into Wine and Palette a week before the event for the artists to properly prepare for the course.

FOR A LIST OF EDUCATION CLASSES FOR KIDS AND ADULTS, SEE PAGE 15.

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Donor Spotlight

Express Employment Professionals Thank You for the Imagination Playground

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xpress Employment Professionals is committed to positively affecting the lives of families, enhancing the education system, and beautifying our community in order to make it a better place to live. It’s this commitment that makes partnering with the Myriad Botanical Gardens such an ideal fit.

With the Gardens’ mission to provide a vibrant green and educational space for all to enjoy, Express is proud to lend its support through the purchase of new Imagination Playground Blocks that are featured at special events throughout the year. In addition, for the third consecutive year, Express will be sponsoring Pumpkinville.

“We pride ourselves on having a culture built on giving and service at Express,” said Bob Funk, CEO and chairman of the board of Express Employment Professionals. “With that in mind, we know how important it is to support the communities where we “We pride ourselves on having work, serve and live. The dedication of the Myriad Botanical Gardens to a culture built on giving and providing visitors with a natural escape service at Express,” said Bob in the heart of downtown is a great Funk, CEO and chairman of the example of that service.”

board of Express Employment Professionals. “With that in mind, we know how important it is to support the communities where we work, serve and live.”

With year-round special events and programs, there is always something happening at the Gardens, making it an appealing reason to live and work in Oklahoma City. Having employed more than 18,000 people in Oklahoma alone during the 2016 year, Express Employment Professionals believes that - Bob Funk, CEO, Express having a world-class public garden Employment Professionals enhances the quality of life for our employees and their families, while also bringing a wonderful vibrancy to our downtown community.

When the Myriad Botanical Gardens approached Express Employment Professionals with the concept for the Imagination Playground Big Blue Blocks, the Express Philanthropic Committee jumped at the chance to provide a sustainable and creative way of promoting imaginative, exercise-based play for the Gardens’ young patrons. As a result, we’ve seen creative couches, forts, and more come to life at multiple events. These are our future designers, engineers, and dreamers hard at work and play!

Photo by Doug Hoke

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As a company that was founded and continues to be headquartered in the great state of Oklahoma, Express believes in engaging and giving back to organizations that share our values. It is the very value of family that makes Pumpkinville a favorite event of Express Employment Professionals’ employees, their families, and our community.

“We’re honored to partner with a company that believes so strongly in giving back,” said Maureen Heffernan, executive director of Myriad Botanical Gardens. “Without the support of Express Employment Professionals, the Gardens wouldn’t be able to offer as many popular activities for our community.”

Express Clydesdale “Big Jack” made an appearance at Pumpkinville this year to the delight of many children and their families.

Tree Giveaway and Sale Presented by Cox Saturday, November 4, 9am-Noon

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oin us Saturday, November 4 from 9 a.m. to Noon for a tree giveaway, tree sales and free programs on how to plant and care for trees. We are able to provide at no charge or for a lost cost, over 1,000 trees to the community. This is possible thanks to our presenting sponsor Cox Communications, along with Rotary Club of Oklahoma City and a continued partnership with the Tree Bank Foundation and Cedar Valley Nurseries.

Trees will be available for $9 for members, $10 for nonmembers and individuals can purchase up to two trees per household. In addition

Eastern Redbud Cercis canadensis

Dynamite Crepe Myrtle Lagerstroemia indica ‘Whit II’

we will giveaway 200 free 3-gallon trees at the start of Tree For All. Enjoy tree planting demonstrations and tree care workshops. We’ll also have a variety of booths and vendors with more tree-related information and products.

One of Cox Communications initiatives is focused on reducing waste, energy consumption, and water conservation. Trees are a terrific way to add beauty as well as shade to reduce home cooling costs.

Betty Magnolia Magnolia ‘Betty’

Autumn Blaze Maple ® Acer x freemanii ‘Jeffersred’

Bald Cypress Taxodium distichum

Sawtooth Oak Quercus acutissuma

All trees are in 3 gallon containers and are Oklahoma Proven® varieties that are proven performers in Oklahoma’s challenging climate.

In addition to on-site sales on November 4, trees can be reserved ahead of time online at myriadgardens.org. Limit of two trees per household. Pre-sold trees can be picked up any time between 9 a.m. to Noon on Saturday, November 4.

Free Tree Giveaway

200 trees will be given away for free starting at 9 a.m. on a first come-first serve basis.

Trees Bald cypress Taxodium distichum Height and spread: 50’ - 70’ by 20’ - 45’ Sun requirements: Full sun Sawtooth Oak Quercus acutissima Height and spread: 40’ - 60’ by 40’ - 60’ Sun requirements: Full sun Autumn Blaze Maple® Acer x freemanii ‘Jeffersred’ Height and spread: 40’ - 55’ by 30’ - 40’ Sun requirements: Full sun to part shade October Glory Red Maple Acer rubrum Height and spread: 40’ - 50’ by 30’ - 40’ Sun requirements: Full sun to part shade Eastern Redbud | Cercis canadensis Height and spread: 20’ - 30’ by 25 - 35’ Sun requirements: Full sun to part shade Vibrant pink to purple flowers in April.

Dynamite Crepe Myrtle Lagerstroemia indica ‘Whit II’ Dynamite Height and spread: 8’ - 20’ by 8’ -18’ Sun requirements: Full sun Bright red flowers July to September.

Betty Magnolia Height and spread: 10’ - 15’ by 8’ - 12’ Sun requirements: Full sun to part shade Reddish-purple flowers with white interiors, April to May. Shrub Rose Creek Abelia Abelia ‘Rose Creek’ Height and spread: 2’ to 3’ by 3’ - 4’ Sun requirements: Full sun to part shade White flowers, May to September

October Glory Red Maple Acer rubrum

Rose Creek Abelia shrub Abelia ‘Rose Creek’

TREE FOR ALL SCHEDULE NOVEMBER 4 9am FREE tree giveaway First come-first serve basis to first 200 participants.

9am to Noon Tree Pickup for pre-registrants 9am Introduction, Tree Planting Demonstration 9:30am Tree Walk with Myriad Gardens staff 10am How to Conserve Water With a New Tree Oklahoma City Water Conservation Department, Robert Reaves 10:30am Tree Planting Demonstration 11am Tree Care 101 and Q&A Oklahoma Forestry Services, Mark Bays 11:30am OKC Parks Tree Inventory Project Oklahoma City Community Foundation, Brian Dougherty

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Education Spotlight Gardens Continues its Focus on Pollinators

By Dr. Ann Fleener, Director of Education

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t the Gardens we are passionate about the natural world. One of the areas we’ve focused in recent years is pollinator conservation. In 2016 we added pollinator garden beds to our Children’s Garden and we installed our Oklahoma Prairie Garden.

Both of these areas are huge attractants for wildlife. On any given summer day you can walk out to the Prairie Garden, stand among the abundance of grasses and flowers, and listen to the sounds of nature.

Cicadas, crickets and many other beneficial insects are singing their summer songs and it is glorious.

Among the many beneficial insects who flock to these spaces are pollinators: hummingbirds, bees, wasps, and butterflies, including the Monarch butterfly. We recently took the next step in focusing on pollinators, certifying these two spaces as Monarch Waystations through Monarch Watch.

Monarch Watch is an organization focused on researching, conserving and educating the public

about the Monarch Butterfly.

Certifying a space as a Monarch Waystation is fairly simple, and is open to organizations, homeowners, and public spaces.

During the certification process you are asked a Ann Fleener series of questions ensuring your space provides the ingredients needed for a Monarch habitat: shelter, host and nectar plants and sustainable practices.

The next step we will be taking is in tagging Monarchs as they come through on their fall flight. Tagging Monarchs helps with the gathering of data about the Monarch’s flight pattern, how weather influences them and possible contributions to the Monarch decline. In gathering this data, we increase our chances of reversing the decline.

For more information on Monarch Watch visit their website monarchwatch.org.

OSU-OKC Floral Design Students Win Scholarship to Prestigious Floral Design School

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n May of this year the Myriad Gardens hosted the Art of Flowers, with one of our most fascinating speakers yet, Dundee Butcher, founder and owner of Russian River Flowers in Napa, CA. Dundee trained with some of the most celebrated floral schools and companies in London, including McQueen’s Flowers, Jane Packer Flowers and the Academy of Flowers in Covent Garden. During this time, Dundee arranged flowers for everyone from Gwyneth Paltrow to the Queen. She did all this as a forty-something mother with a busy family life.

Photo by Doug Hoke

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worked with OSU-OKC’s school of horticulture and her own partner at Russian River School to underwrite costs for these students to attend a week-long Russian River floral design school.

Hilary, KJ & Chelsea attended the flower school at the end of September which was a special collaboration between Russian River School and McQueens Flower School in England. The week was an intensive introduction to traditional English floral design. Hilary Clark said that she was thrilled to When Dundee spoke in May, attend the school and finds Dundee’s creativity three floral design students and business acumen from OSU-OKC were in OSU-OKC floral design students Hilary Clark, KJ inspiring. Hilary is a attendance. Hilary Clark, KJ mother of young children, Kane and Chelsea Hughes were Kane and Chelsea Hughes with Dundee Butcher. just as Dundee was when thrilled to be invited to the Art of Flowers to hear from an inspiring leader in the she began her career, and she is honored that Dundee saw enough in each of them to offer floral design industry. Little did they know that them for this amazing learning opportunity.

Dundee would see something in each of them that got her thinking. Following her talk, Dundee

VolunTEENs Make an Impact at Gardens This Summer

By Megan Brown, Volunteer Program Manager

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part. These eight students volunteered between 50 and 120 hours each during the ten week program. They helped with our Children’s Garden Festival, Bug Out! Lady Bug Release, Weekly Walkups, International Mud Day and worked alongside our horticulture staff. Each VolunTEEN Dalton Westover helps release Lady day they were given more Bugs into the Children’s Garden responsibility, and each time they rose to the occasion. Through this process they learned how to interview; speak professionally to the public; work with children; care for plants and more. All seven of the students who would qualify again next year will be warmly welcomed to return to the program. As we continue to grow the program, our goal is to ensure that the VolunTEENS receive more training, knowledge of horticulture and general preparation for future careers. It is an honor to be a part of educating and shaping young people. They say that the youth are our future, and from where I stood at the VolunTEEN Celebration, the future looks bright.

s we began cleaning up after the VolunTEEN End of Summer Celebration, I looked around the room and was amazed at what a difference ten weeks can make. When I first started at the Myriad Gardens, the VolunTEEN Class of 2017 was just about to kick off. During their training in May, I remember thinking how young and green they were. Getting them to speak up when we asked questions seemed impossible, as they were shy and uncertain. But here we were ten weeks later and they didn’t want to leave. They knew their parents were waiting for them outside, but they still wanted to talk and hang out with the staff and each other. After hugging them goodbye, we sent them out to their parents, but not without a bit of sadness on our

VolunTEENS at the end of summer celebration are from left: Ella Owen, Chloe Hume, Vanessa Heath, Noah Coats, Dalton Westover, Jada Evans, Rylliee Hutchison, Emily Smith

Meet Megan Brown, Volunteer Program Manager

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egan Brown has joined the Myriad Gardens as Volunteer Program Manager. Megan was born and raised in Shawnee, Oklahoma and has a deep love for the Sooner state. She studied SociologyHuman Services at the University of Central Oklahoma in Edmond. Her passion is for people and she enjoys getting to know them and their stories.

Megan Brown

Prior to working for the Myriad Gardens, Megan worked as a Senior Community Development Manager for the American Cancer Society, where she fundraised and worked with volunteers. She was drawn to the Gardens because of her love for downtown Oklahoma City and her desire to be a part of the exciting growth taking place. Megan understands the value of a volunteer and believes that volunteers are vital for the growth and longevity of an organization. She is looking forward to growing the volunteer department and sharing her love of the Gardens with others in the community.

Adopt-A-Spot Opportunity Now Available

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he Myriad Gardens is currently looking for groups for our new Adopt-A-Spot program. Friends, family, social organizations, or corporations can participate in the program.

Each adopted area of the gardens will require a group of five to ten people being on-site for three hours monthly or bi-weekly (depending on the area) for one year to pull weeds, mulch, pick up trash, and assist the horticulture staff with maintenance of the area.

Please contact mbrown@myriadgardens.org or (405) 445-7087 for more information or to book a private tour of the Myriad Gardens grounds to choose your spot.

Benefits: • • • •

A plaque with your company or group name in the area Mention of your company during outdoor guided tours Corporate membership to the Myriad Botanical Gardens One 20% off coupon for one corporate event at our facility

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E DUC ATI O N C L A S S E S F OR YOU T H & A D U LT S KIDS

FAMILY WORKSHOP: NATURAL WREATHS SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 11, 1-2:30PM Garden Grounds and Terrace Room M $5; NM $7. Best for ages 6-10 Register by Tues, Nov. 7

READING WEDNESDAYS EVERY WEDNESDAY, 10AM 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. We’ll begin with an interactive song and children will enjoy creating a small craft after the story. For groups of 10 or more please call Kodi Clifford at (405) 835-6789.

PUMPKIN PALOOZA – REPURPOSING PUMPKINS FOR KIDS SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 4, 10:30-11:15AM Children’s Garden and Terrace Room M $4; NM $6. Best for ages 4-8 Register by Tuesday, October 31 Join us on the Children’s Garden porch for a morning of repurposing pumpkins! We’ll start out with a discussion and “show-and-tell” of pumpkin varieties, followed by a short walk to check out how we have utilized pumpkins in the Children’s Garden. We’ll meet back on the porch to finish off with our pumpkin craft.

Children will be able to make either a minipumpkin birdfeeder or mini-pumpkin pansy planter. Be sure to preregister to reserve your spot and pumpkin.

REGISTER ONLINE! IT’S EASY.

MYRIADGARDENS.ORG

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Explore the garden grounds with us and gather natural items from the plants going through the seasonal change.

We’ll then use the branches, seeds and greens we collected to create a natural wreath that children can proudly display for the holidays.

PAINTING POTS & PLANTING HERBS SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 18, 10-11:30AM Terrace Room M $12; NM $15. Best for ages 6-10 Register by Tuesday, November 14 This is great class for families to learn about the indoor herbs they can grow during the chilly months to use in tasty holiday meals.

Each child will paint a terra cotta pot and plant an herb of their choice to take home. We’ll learn how to take care of our new herb plant and talk about some tasty, healthy ways to use our herbs as they grow.

GINGERBREAD HOUSE WORKSHOP SATURDAY, DECEMBER 9, 10AM-NOON Terrace Room M $35; NM $40 Register by Monday, November 20 All ages welcome. Children ages 8 & under will need chaperone help ‘Tis the season to decorate a beautiful gingerbread house. We’ll learn about the flavorful ginger root – where it comes from, how it grows – and then go on a hunt in our conservatory to find it. We’ll finish by decorating our fragrant masterpieces. All supplies provided including gingerbread structure, frosting, candies for decorating and a little help if needed.

WINTER WILDLIFE SATURDAY, DECEMBER 16, 10-11:30AM Terrace Room and Garden Grounds, Weather Permitting M $6; NM $8. Best for ages 5-10 Register by Tuesday, December 12 Where do all of our wildlife friends go in the chilly winter months?

Learn all about their cozy hiding spots and tricks in this interactive children’s class. We’ll talk about how various animals survive in the winter and then learn how we can help them out in our backyards or neighborhoods. We’ll read a book, play a game and finish with a DIY bird feeder made out of unique recycled home goods.

WINTER BREAK DROP-INS MON.–FRI., DEC. 18-22, 10AM-2PM South Lobby M $4; NM $5. Best for ages 6-10 Walkups welcome Kids will discover the beauty and fun nature has to offer even during the winter. Join us each day with story time every 30 minutes, holiday ornament or gift making and interactive education. Every day has a different theme: Monday- Plant Hibernation Tuesday- Animal Hibernation Wednesday- All About Ice Thursday- Winter Solstice Day Friday- Homemade Holiday Decorations

ADULTS GARDENS WALKING TOUR

OCTOBER 28, NOVEMBER 25 & DECEMBER 30 Last Saturday of Every Month 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 selfguided handout in our South Lobby.

EDUC ATI O N C L AS S E S F OR YOU T H & A D U LT S BULB PLANTING TALK AND INTERACTIVE DEMONSTRATION FRIDAY, OCTOBER 27, NOON-1PM Crystal Bridge South Lobby & Garden Grounds M FREE; NM $5 Register by Wednesday, October 25 If you want bulbs for the spring, fall is the time to plant them and our horticulture staff will be doing just that starting in October.

Join them as they plant bulbs such as tulips, hyacinths and daffodils. They will discuss different types of bulbs, planting techniques and spring maintenance tips for your emerged bulbs.

Participants will have the chance to plant a bulb or two in the Gardens as well – then you can come back in the spring to see it growing.

BULB PLANTING DESIGN: DEMONSTRATION AND TALK SATURDAY, OCTOBER 28, 11AM-NOON Crystal Bridge Second Floor Conference Room and Garden Grounds Instructor: Linda Vater, Garden Essence M $5; NM $8 Register by Tuesday, October 24 If you want bulbs for the spring, fall is the time to plant them and to lay out your design. Join Linda as she share beautiful inspiration photos, discuss design tips and then head outside to demonstrate how to implement the design as you plant it. Bulb care tips will be discussed as well.

FOR A LIST OF PUBLIC EVENTS, SEE PAGE 9

TREE WALK: TREES WITH THE BEST FALL INTEREST

COLD FRAME CLASS

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 11, 10AM-2PM

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 3, NOON – 1:30PM, COME-AND-GO

Water Plaza Room & Children’s Garden, weather permitting Steve Upson, Horticulture Consultant, Noble Research Institute $80 M $100 NM Register by Wednesday, November 1

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. This is a great chance to learn about some of the trees that will be available at Tree for All! on November 4.

Cold frames are a great way to extend the growing season since they act as mini-greenhouses for your plants.

They’re especially great for cold-season vegetables like spinach, arugula, and kale.

Join Tobi as he walks you through the steps of building your own cold frame to take home.

Crystal Bridge South Lobby and Garden Grounds Mark Bays, Urban Forester FREE (Suggested $2 donation)

FORCING PAPERWHITES AND AMARYLLIS FOR THE HOLIDAYS

FRI., NOV. 17, 1-3PM & WED., NOV. 22, 10:30AM-4:30PM Dr. Ann Fleener, Myriad Gardens Director of Education Crystal Bridge South Lobby M $10, NM $15; Children’s Mini Option $5 Drop-in Learn how to force beautiful flowering bulbs just in time for the holidays.

In this interactive walk-up you’ll learn about the long-blooming Paperwhite, which can bloom for up to six weeks and the showstopping Amaryllis. We’ll discuss care tips and guide you through potting up your own bulbs to enjoy at home.

TREE FOR ALL: TREE SALE & PLANTING WORKSHOPS SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 4, 9AM-3PM

(See article page 10)

PUTTING YOUR GARDEN TO BED

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 10, 10 – 11AM Crystal Bridge South Lobby & Garden Grounds M $3; NM $5 Register by Tuesday, November 7 November is the time to prepare your garden for the colder winter months so it looks its best and returns in the spring in the best shape possible. Our Horticulture staff will talk through what they’re doing in the garden at this time and will discuss what is and isn’t getting cut back (some grasses and perennials do well if left until spring and look amazing covered in ice or snow). They’ll also discuss adding mulch for cold protection, removing and composting annuals and other best practices.

THANKSGIVING FLORAL WORKSHOP MONDAY, NOVEMBER 20, 6-7:30PM The Wild Mother, Floral Designers Terrace Room Wine Provided. Ages 21 & up.

M $75, NM $85 Register by Wednesday, November 15

Create a gorgeous, natural 12-18” centerpiece for your Thanksgiving table this year that you can proudly declare is your creation. Join the creative pros of The Wild Mother, who have worked with amazing places such as West Elm, as they guide you through the steps of creating a centerpiece that’s sure to wow everyone at your table. A selection of cuttings gathered from our Prairie Garden will be available to add a harvest touch to your fresh flower arrangement.

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EDUC AT I O N C L A S S E S F OR YOU T H & A D U LT S GREENS MARKET WED., NOV. 22, 10:30AM-4:30PM Crystal Bridge South Lobby Walkups Welcome Purchase beautiful greens and wreaths for your mantel, table, doors and more. Noble fir, princess pine, juniper and a variety of other greens will be available for purchase at a great price and we’ll be on site to answer questions about preserving your greens through the holidays.

LIVING WREATH CLASS SAT., DEC. 2,10AM-NOON AND 2-4PM Terrace Room Succulent Wreath $75 M; $85NM, Evergreen Wreath $45 M; $55 NM Register by Tuesday, November 28 Back by popular demand with two offerings this year. 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 home. Succulent wreaths are best for indoors, while evergreens are best for the outdoors, why not sign up for both classes and make each one? New this year for evergreen wreaths, we’ll have fresh herbs on hand to add a lovely holiday scent.

PRUNING TREES

FORCING PAPERWHITES FOR THE HOLIDAYS FRIDAY, DECEMBER 8, 11AM-NOON Terrace Room Dr. Ann Fleener, Myriad Gardens Director of Education M $10; NM $15 Register by Monday, December 4 Learn how to force this beautiful flower just in time for the holidays. In this interactive program you’ll learn about the long-blooming Paperwhite, which can bloom for up to six weeks. We’ll discuss care tips and guide you through potting up your own bulbs to enjoy at home.

HERBAL HOLIDAY GIFTS

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2-4PM Water Plaza Room Monica Arndt, Herbalist M $18; NM $25 Register by Tuesday, December 5 Join Herbalist, Monica Arndt, to create a kitchen gift basket for the holidays. Monica will provide you with recipes and then guide you through the steps of creating your own Herbs De Provence mix, a Rose Petal Jam and an 8” living Rosemary wreath. She’ll also discuss the benefits of each of these herbs and will provide great ideas for adding even more to your basket. You may even need to make two baskets, one for a friend and one for you!

PRUNING SHRUBS AND VINES

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 7, 11AM-NOON Terrace Room and Garden Grounds M $4; NM $7 Register by Monday, December 4

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 15, NOON-1PM Terrace Room and Garden Grounds M $4; NM $7 Register by Monday, December 11

December is a great time to prune many plants in the garden. Join our Gardens and Grounds Manager, Matthew Janda, for a hands-on workshop. Matthew will first give an overview of the best time for pruning both flowering and evergreen trees. He’ll then demonstrate proper tree pruning techniques and give each participant a chance to try their hand at pruning. Proper tool maintenance will be touched on as well.

Have an overgrown hedge row or climbing vine?

Looking to clean up your garden a bit? Then join our Gardens and Grounds Manager, Matthew Janda, for hands on instruction on how to properly maintain your shrubs and vines. Matthew will discuss the best time for pruning various shrub and vine types and will demonstrate proper pruning techniques as well as tool maintenance. Each participant will have a chance to practice their newly learned skills in the Garden.

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The Reviews of Our Education Classes Are In! “It was PERFECT. Very nice, loved the ladies who hosted the class.”

–Shawn Akins “I learned a lot, got valuable information and the attitude of the presenter is something that will stay with me and motivate me to try new things!”

–Nitya Viswanatz “This was a great class. Loved the instructor. I can’t wait to infuse some honey.”

–Valerie Jennings “This class was great. I can’t wait to make more infused honey at home!”

–Jennifer Jones “This was one of the coolest things I’ve done in a long time. I loved my experience today.

I can’t wait to come back and take another class.”

–Mackenzie Plank “Always love Lori’s classes!”

–Jeannie Kline “The class was very educational on all levels – literary, math, scientific, artistic. Fabulous leader!”

–Rebecca Shiplett

Welcome New Staff Rebekah Wade and Nicole Kusnierz Named Public Events Assistants Bekah Wade and Nicole Kusnierz have been named Public Events Assistants for the Myriad Botanical Gardens. Bekah is an Oklahoma native, and has always had a passion for events and love for Oklahoma City so this job was the perfect combination for her. Nicole is a Texas native turned Okie that loves her ability to be creative while working outdoors at the Gardens.

Bekah graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in marketing from Oklahoma City University and was a member of the Women’s Varsity Rowing Team. She previously worked at the Oklahoma City Boathouse Foundation in the guest services, coaching and Bekah Wade sales departments. Her favorite spaces at the Gardens are the Crystal Bridge and Wave Fountain. She particularly enjoys our SONIC Summer Movie Nights, Children’s Garden Festival and the Full Moon Bike Ride and Run. Nicole graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in Anthropology from Texas A&M University and went on to receive a Master’s Degree in Anthropology with a focus in North American Archaeology from the University of Oklahoma.

She previously worked in Nicole Kusnierz museums and non-profit organizations including: the Dallas Zoo, Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History, Crow Collection of Asian Art, the Smithsonian Center for Folklife and Cultural Heritage and the Thinkery. Her favorite spaces at the Gardens are the Thunder Fountain and the Meinders Terrace. She particularly enjoys Dancing in the Gardens, the Children’s Garden Festival and our Sensory Sensitive Evenings.

Sarah Carson New Addition to the Development Department Sarah Carson joined the Gardens in August as the Development Operations Coordinator.

Previously, she served as the first Public Policy and Outreach Director and later as the Director of Programs at the Oklahoma Center for Nonprofits. Sarah served two years on the National Sarah Carson Council of Nonprofits’ Public Policy Committee and is a member of LOYAL OKC Class IX. She holds a Master’s degree in International Studies from the University of Oklahoma. During her studies, she conducted field research on land rights in Rwanda and was published in the Journal of International Affairs. She was also the recipient of several awards, including the Ambassador Edward J. Perkins Scholarship and the Thomas W. Adams Award, and is an alumna of Phi Beta Delta Honor Society. As an intern for World Neighbors, she assessed the impact of a collaborative food security project with Heifer International. Prior to her time at university, Sarah spent two years acting in a European theatre company. She is an avid reader and Thunder fan, and enjoys gardening, traveling, and spending time with her young family.

Grace Marcum Joins Facility Rentals Team Grace has been named Event Rental Coordinator for the Myriad Gardens.

She is an Oklahoma native who graduated from the University of Oklahoma with a bachelor’s degree in advertising. Grace has always enjoyed attending events and weddings Grace Marcum at Myriad Gardens. She is excited to join the team and take a deep dive into all things rentals and events at, in her opinion, the most beautiful venue in Oklahoma City! Her favorite event spaces include the Park House and Meinders Terrace.

Photo by Doug Hoke

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New Interpretive Signage Unveiled in the Prairie Garden

By Maureen Heffernan, Executive Director

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yriad Botanical Gardens continues to evolve as a botanical garden. We are pleased to now begin to add interpretive signage to our outdoor garden areas starting with our Oklahoma Prairie Garden.

Over the last year, Nate Tschaenn, our Director of Horticulture, led the process to write text for and identify a graphic design style for new outdoor interpretive signage.

This signage is designed for both youth and adults to learn more about plants, gardening, ecological connections and conservation.

SAVE-THE-DATE

Over the next several years, we plan to create and install more of these interpretive signs throughout the gardens to enhance our visitor’s experience at the Gardens.

SAVE-THE-DATE

Splendor IN THE GARDENS

Splendor in the Gardens Thursday, May 17, 2018 The Great Lawn at Myriad Botanical Gardens will once again be transformed for a magical evening under the lights and stars Thursday, May 17 with the fourth edition of Splendor in the Gardens. This biannual gala serves as a major fundraiser for Myriad Gardens Foundation with funds going to support the gardens, grounds, educational programs, special events, and the Crystal Bridge Tropical Conservatory.

Splendor in the Gardens begins with a champagne reception in the Park House. As the sun sets, guests make their way to the Great Lawn where a dinner of signature dishes prepared by top Oklahoma City chefs is served.

For sponsor and ticket information please contact Director of Development Susan Grossman at (405) 445-7090 or sgrossman@myriadgardens.org.

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Give a Gift That Makes a Difference

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ith the many to-do’s that come with the end of the year, here is an easy one to check off your list: Give a tax-deductible, year-end gift to Myriad Gardens Foundation.

A donation to our annual fund helps us maintain this beautiful green space in downtown Oklahoma City for all to enjoy throughout the year. Whether it is ice skating in the winter, spectacular bulb displays in the spring, movies on the Great Lawn in the summer, or Pumpkinville in the fall, there is always something happening in the Gardens.

Donations to the Annual Fund can be made online at myriadgardens.org or by calling (405) 445-7090 or use the enclosed envelope.

Thank you in advance for your support.

On any given day there are hundreds of people strolling, walking their dogs, reading, playing, running and simply being outside. To maintain and enhance this urban oasis for Oklahoma City, Myriad Gardens Foundation must annually generate more than two million dollars in private support.

Make a significant contribution to the health and well-being of our community. When considering year-end philanthropic giving, please think of Myriad Gardens Foundation.

JINGLE& MINGLE

Members Holiday Party Thursday, November 30 Jump start your holiday spirit at Jingle Mingle 2017 inside the south lobby of the Crystal Bridge.

On Thursday, November 30 from 5 to 7 p.m. Gardens members are invited to enjoy our holiday decor, refreshments and a silent auction featuring specially created alternative Christmas trees, wreaths and other gift items.

Jingle Mingle will also feature a variety of fresh greenery and poinsettias for sale.

Join the Gardens, Receive a Gift of Warmth Not a member? Join today and receive a free blanket. Perfect for staying warm this winter at the Devon Ice Rink or to use for picnics on the Great Lawn next spring, a Myriad Gardens fleece blanket is yours for just a $65 family membership while supplies last.

Already a Myriad Gardens member? Purchase a membership as a gift for those in your life who love the Gardens as much as you do. When you give the gift of membership we will notify the recipient so they can take full advantage of their benefits.

Membership benefits include: • • • •

Free admission to the Crystal Bridge Tropical Conservatory yearround Free admission to more than 200 gardens across the country thorough our reciprocal program with the American Horticulture Society Gardens quarterly newsletters Free admission to the Children’s Garden Festival in the spring and Pumpkinville in the fall Educational class discounts Free subscription to either Martha Stewart Living or Better Homes and Gardens.

10 percent off at Scissortail Gifts at Myriad Gardens

Scissortail Gifts is offering a 20 percent discount during the event where you can stock up on ornaments, Made In Oklahoma products and a variety of gardening novelty items for everyone on your shopping list.

• •

Treats and hot cocoa will be offered by Pitchfork in the Park, our seasonal food operator. Wine and beer will also be available.

Three easy ways to purchase memberships:

RSVP by November 24 to Susan Grossman at (405) 445-7090 or sgrossman@myriadgardens.org

•

1. Online at: myriadgardens.org 2. Call (405) 445-7089 3. At the Crystal Bridge Visitor Lobby, Mondays-Saturdays, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sundays 11am-5pm *Blanket offer available to new memberships/gift memberships

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Shop Scissortail Gifts at Myriad Gardens for the Holidays

Myriad Gardens makes any event more memorable

Scissortail Gift Shop, located in the south lobby of the Crystal Bridge, is open daily and stocked full of wonderful Oklahoma made or inspired items perfect for your holiday gift list.

For the holiday season, they have expanded their garden related gifts which include books, growing kits for kids, flower vases and more.

By shopping at Scissortail, your purchases help support the Gardens.

Members receive 10 percent off their purchases. For more special savings, members can take 20 percent off all their purchases at our Jingle Mingle Members Reception on November 30 from 5-7pm.

December On Tuesdays throughout December, stop by Scissortail Gifts to enjoy free coca and candy canes while you browse for gifts and enjoy the holiday dĂŠcor in our Visitor Center.

For information on booking a wedding or event visit myriadgardens.org/rentals Email: rentals @myriadgardens.org Photo by: Magnolia Adams

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

November 10, 2017 January 28, 2018 See page 8 for admission and hours

Sundays, November 26, December 3, 10, 17 Free admission | 6-9pm Enjoy Crystal Bridge lights and decor.

Saturdays, December 2, 9 & 16 10am-5pm See page 9.

Non-Profit Org. US Postage Paid Okla. City, OK Permit No. 100

301 WEST RENO OKL AHOMA CIT Y, OK 73102 myriadgardens.org

Visit the Crystal Bridge Tropical Conservatory

OPEN DAILY: MON-SAT 9AM-5PM, SUN 11AM-5PM $8 Adults; $7 Seniors (62+), Active Military, Students (13-19); $5 Children 4-12; FREE for Members & Children Under 4