Mo’s Carousel at the Myriad Gardens Tree For All Event Returns November 3
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 Tannebaum Holdings
LaDonna and Herman Meinders
Robert H. Meinders
Newmark Grubb Levy
Strange Beffort
OGE Energy Corp.
The Oklahoman
Oklahoma City Economic Development Trust
The City of Oklahoma City
Avis Scaramucci
On the cover: Mo’s Carousel horse with roses. Photo by Leslie A. Spears
Myriad Gardens Foundation
Executive Board of Directors
Chairman
J. Larry Nichols*
Chair Emeritus
James R. Tolbert III*
Treasurer
Matt Cole*
Mark Beffort
Chris Flemming
John Hart
Gary Pierson
David Rainbolt
Meg Salyer*
Avis Scaramucci*
Sean Trauschke
*Also a Community Board Member
Executive Director
Maureen Heffernan
Chief Financial Officer
Chuck Davis
Deputy Director
Debora Morey
Community Board Members
Chris Fleming, President
Brian Alford
Robert L. Allee
Tony Boghetich
Gerry Bonds
Lindsey Brock
Bob Calvert
Janie Comstock
Irma Elliott
James Everest
Warren V. Filley, MD
Ginny Greenberg
Linda Haneborg
Seyan Hefner
Dannie Bea Hightower
Linda Horn
Gail Huneryager
Dixie Jensen
Michael Laird
Vision Statement
Paul Lefebvre
Jean McLaughlin
Robert H. Meinders
James R. Morley
Allen Paine
Morton Payne
Kent Phillips
James A. Pickel
Christina Rehkop
Andy Rines
Lynn Robberson
D. Joe Rockett
Kim Searls
Marsha See
Carl Shortt
Caleb Shough
Beth Wells
Roy H. Williams
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 year-round horticultural, cultural and recreational programs and events for all.
The new Tanenbaum Reflection Garden dedicated in May 2018. See page 7. Photo by Carl
Shortt Jr.
Chris
Fleming
to serve as president for the Myriad Gardens Community Board
Chris Fleming is the new president of the Gardens’ Community Board for 20182020. He joined the Community Board in 2016 and was elected president-elect in 2017.
Chris is Executive Vice President and a partner of Midtown Renaissance. He 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.
In addition to his generous donation of personal time and financial support as well as support from Midtown Renaissance, he served as co-chair with Kathy Williams for our bi-annual gala, Splendor in the Gardens. See page 16 for photos and recap.
DEAR MYRIAD GARDENS’ MEMBERS
Maureen Heffernan, Executive Director
Growing gardens and cultivating community with events and programs that educate, enliven and elevate the quality of life in OKC is what we do. It makes for an exhilarating year-round mix of beauty, culture and fun. Your support makes this possible. Thank you.
Bringing the community together will be furthered as we take on managing OG+E’s Together Square –the open green space across from the Gardens. Thanks to Energy Assist and Team Griffith Foundations, the site will soon have a basketball court and a futsal surface for soccer play ready in early 2019. As the fencing comes down, the rest of the green space will open up for all.
donor reception on September 19.
The fun quotient at the Gardens was notched up recently with the opening of Mo’s Carousel. Seeing the carousel lit up with gleaming carved animals and nostalgic fair music playing brings smiles to children and adults. Like many major cities, OKC now has its own charming carousel in a public green space. Mo’s Carousel makes the Gardens even more of a special destination that brings big smiles to all ages. A new Family Membership Plus level adds in the benefit of free carousel rides year-round.
Pumpkinville presented by OGE Energy Corp. is underway and delighting visitors with thousands of pumpkins, gourds and chrysanthemums, scarecrows, witches, ghosts, hay bales and more. Make sure to visit to take in the beauty and spirit of this autumn season. All of our staff is involved in one planning and setting up and working this event. I am so appreciative of how dedicated they are to creating this wonderful annual event for our city.
Our Crystal Bridge visitor lobby is undergoing renovations and will reopen in late November with an updated interior design. Included will be a new classroom for education programs for all ages. Look for your invitation to our 2018 Jingle Mingle holiday reception scheduled for November 29 to see the newly designed spaces.
By the numbers!
In just weeks, we’ll be opening the Devon Ice Rink on November 9 followed by a new outdoor holiday market that will be open for several weeks during the holiday season.
New this holiday season is Illuminations, a dazzlingly creative light show inside the Crystal Bridge from November 23-January 1. Visit it Tuesday–Sundays from 6-9pm. It will feature several interactive lighting effects unique to OKC.
I hope to see you at the Gardens this fall and holiday season.
Maureen Heffernan Executive Director
egendary civic leader Lee Allan Smith at Mo’s Carousel’s
Pictured Lee Allan Smith with his daughter Wendy House and his granddaughter, Hadley House at Mo’s Carousel donor reception.
Pumpkinville, presented by OGE Energy Corp., Returns for 7th year
October 5 through October 21
One of the most treasured fall traditions in Oklahoma City –Pumpkinville presented by OGE Energy Corp. – runs October 5-21 at Myriad Gardens. The popular Children’s Garden transforms into a New England-themed Pumpkin Town that features thousands of pumpkins, hundreds of gourds, a variety of fall foliage and tons of fun activities.
This event is made possible by sponsors Express Employment Professionals with additional sponsorship from E.L. Gaylord Foundation, Tapstone Energy, Hogan Taylor, Goldfish Swim School, Enable Midstream Partners, Little Spanish Bridge, Midtown Vets and Gray Blodgett CPAs.
More than 16,000 pumpkins fill the Children’s
Garden along with imaginative displays, creative crafts and fun games that celebrated the fall season. Visitors can enjoy riding the Pumpkinville Express Train on Saturdays and Sundays, Paint-A-Pumpkin, ride the Carousel at the Myriad Gardens, enjoy harvest themed vendors and other activities that were held onsite as part of our festivities.
Cost to attend is FREE for members and $8 per person for nonmembers. Children 2 and under are free. This Includes admission to Pumpkinville and the new Mo’s Carousel at Myriad Gardens.
A variety of ongoing and special events are offered. See the list on the right side of this page or visit myriadgardens.org. Follow us on social media @myriadgardens. Use the hashtag #PumpkinvilleOKC to share your
ONGOING ACTIVITIES
DAILY, 10AM-5PM (LAST TICKET SOLD AT 4:30PM) PAINT-A-PUMPKIN $5 EACH
DAILY 11-11:30AM STORY TIME
DAILY 10AM-5PM FACE PAINTING
FRIDAYS, 1-1:30PM CIDER PRESS
SATURDAYS AND SUNDAYS, 1-5PM (LAST TICKET SOLD AT 4:30PM) PUMPKINVILLE EXPRESS TRAIN
MONDAYS & TUESDAYS, 10AM-12PM MOMMY AND ME MONDAYS AND TINY TOT TUESDAYS
SUNDAY, OCTOBER 7 & SUNDAY, OCTOBER 21, 5:30-6:30PM GOLDEN HOUR PHOTOGRAPHY SESSIONS $50 for an hour session
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 11, 10AM-12PM DAY OF THE GIRL WITH ATHLETA
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 12, 2-4PM SPROUTING CHEFS: PUMPKIN SEED WALKUP
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 13, 11AM–1PM PAINTING IN THE GARDENS: WOOD PUMPKIN SIGNS WITH WINE AND PALETTE
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 13, 10AM-NOON, COME AND GO MANDRAKE MADNESS AND OTHER PLANTS OF THE WIZARDING WORLD
OCTOBER 8, 9, 10, 15, 16 AND 17, 10AM-5PM OKLAHOMA KETTLE CORN
Additional food trucks to be announced. Get updates daily at myriadgardens.org or social media @myriadgardens
SUNDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2-3:30PM SPOOKY POOCH PARADE
THE DEVON LAWN
$10 per member dog
$12 per non-member dog
For more details or to register visit myriadgardens.org
Photo by Doug Hoke
OCTOBER 5 - 21, 2018 | 10AM-5PM DAILY
UNDERWRITER
Accel Financial Staffing
Chickasaw Nation
Jean and David McLaughlin
Bob Meinders
Nancy and George Records
Avis and Phil Scaramucci
Southwestern Stationery and Bank Supply
PLATINUM
Devon Energy Corp.
Jean I. Everest Foundation
Polly and Larry Nichols
Carl Shortt Jr. Foundation
Beth and Jim Tolbert
GOLD
Sally Whitney Dasovich
Josephine Freede
Aaron and Gertrude Karchmer
Memorial Foundation
Love Family Affiliated Fund
Total Environment, Inc.
SILVER
American Fidelity Foundation
Bank of Oklahoma
Center for Economic
Development Law
Crowe & Dunlevy
Shirley, Dearborn M.D.
Dobson Technology
Leslie Hudson
Marsha See Trust Company of Oklahoma
BRONZE
Kitty Champlain
Kam and David Delana
Karen and Warren Filley
Maureen Heffernan
Jay Kyte
Deb and Ronnie Morey
Oklahoma Property Investors
Libby and Morton Payne
Lee Allan Smith
Anne Workman
James Young
Carl Shortt Jr. to be honored at Orchids in October with James R. Tolbert III Crystal Bridge Orchid Award
Thursday, October 25 beginning with the Presentation on the Water Stage followed by Luncheon at Park House Event Center
The Board of Directors of the Myriad Gardens Foundation is proud to announce that Carl Shortt Jr. is the 2018 recipient of the James R. Tolbert III Crystal Orchid Award. This award is an annual tribute to those who significantly impact the beauty and success of the Myriad Botanical Gardens and Oklahoma City. This celebration will be held on Thursday, October 25.
After graduating from the University of Oklahoma Carl began his banking career at First National Bank and Trust Company. In 1981, he and Randy Everest started The Trust Company of Oklahoma which was eventually sold to the Bank of Oklahoma where he was the Trust and Private Banking manager for central Oklahoma until his retirement,
photographers. He is a partner in the In Your Eye Gallery and has exhibited his work in many juried shows. Carl is also an award-winning woodcrafter creating beautiful pieces of art and dozens of pieces of furniture for his Oklahoma City home.
Carl has served on various community boards including Allied Arts and received the Zach D. Taylor Jr. Volunteer Award; Oklahoma Visual Arts Coalition; Lyric Theatre; Science Museum Oklahoma ; Arts Council of Oklahoma City; Rotary Club of Oklahoma City and the Metro Camera Club. He actively volunteers for notfor-profit organizations helping them with photos for friend and fund raising purposes.
A lifetime amateur photographer he began a second career as a professional photographer studying under several internationally known
Carl says his biggest volunteer effort is for the Myriad Gardens. He is a long time Community Board member and has always given generously of his personal time and financial support. With more than 10,000 beautiful photos of the Gardens he has helped us maintain our history and our memories which is invaluable.
Tickets are $85 For tickets please contact Debora Morey, dmorey@myriadgardens.org or call (405) 445-7084.
“Photography is a way of feeling, of touching, of loving. What you have caught on film is captured forever.... It remembers little things, long after you have forgotten everything.” -Aaron Siskind
Carl Shortt Jr.
Photo by Carl Shortt Jr.
Mo’s Carousel a New Permanent Feature for the Gardens
The lights are on and the music is playing with the opening of Mo’s Carousel at Myriad Gardens. Dozens of honored guests gathered Wednesday, September 19 to officially dedicate the newest addition to the Gardens while enjoying festive fare and free rides.
THE HISTORY OF MO’S CAROUSEL AT MYRIAD GARDENS
With the closing of Crossroads Mall/Plaza Mayor Mall in south Oklahoma City, owners Michael Dillard and Roddy Bates had a carousel on their hands that needed a new home. When Oklahoman business reporter Steve Lackmeyer learned of the situation, he got in touch with Maureen Heffernan, executive director of the Gardens, to suggest the Gardens as a possible venue for the carousel. Heffernan reached out to Dillard and Bates who ultimately offered to donate the carousel to the Gardens because the Gardens had the perfect location – the covered pavilion near the Children’s Garden.
As the donation was finalized, Lee Allan Smith stepped up to raise operating funds by coordinating and securing sponsorship of each of the carousel figurines from private donors. Smith, who has been a champion of the Gardens from its beginning, also facilitated a naming opportunity with LaDonna and Herman Meinders, longtime supporters of the Gardens. They chose to honor their friend and executive administrator, Mo Grotjohn for whom the carousel is named after.
Mo’s Carousel includes everything from its previous location, excluding the blue and white canopy top. It features hand-carved wooden horses and figurines from the Allan Herschell Company which at one time was the most prolific makers of carousels in the country.
The addition of Mo’s Carousel contributes to the evolution of the Gardens as Oklahoma City’s award-winning green space and urban park. It also will serve as a revenue source to help support Myriad Gardens Foundation.
DONOR LIST
DONORS OF THE CAROUSEL FROM CROSSROADS MALL
Michael Dillard and Roddy Bates
MAJOR GIFT DONORS
LaDonna and Herman Meinders in honor of Mo Grotjohn
(Pictured with his wife Jacque)
CAROUSEL FIGURINE DONORS
LaDonna and Herman Meinders
Ad Astra Foundation
American Fidelity Foundation
Mo Anderson
BancFirst Bob Burke
Inasmuch Foundation
Josephine Freede
Shahnaaz and Ronnie Irani
Don Karchmer
Sherri and Bill Lance
Robert H. Meinders
Midtown Renaissance & Hall Capital Oklahoma State Fair, Inc.
Lee Allan Smith
Becky and Barry Switzer
Donna & Blake Wade
Carousel donors Roddy Bates and Michael Dillard, owners of Crossroads Mall, with Oklahoman reporter Steve Lackmeyer.
Carousel donor Bob Burke and his family celebrate the inaugural ride of Mo’s Carousel at the donor reception.
Photos by Doug Hoke
HORTICULTURE HAPPENINGS
By Nate Tschaenn, Director of Horticulture
New Color Curve Bed’s First Summer
Early this year we revealed that we had received a generous grant from the Stanley Smith Horticultural Trust and would be making changes to our Color Curve garden just south of the Devon Lawn. This included planting a new mixed border including annuals, perennials, ornamental grasses and some small shrubs and trees. After carefully planning the design, sourcing the plants and then planting them over the spring and summer, we are happy to announce that the planting bed is now complete and off to a good start.
Along the back of the border we have some tall prairie plants such as tall coreopsis (Coreopsis tripteris) and large coneflower (Rudbeckia maxima) as well as some small trees and shrubs such as smokebush (Cotinus coggygria) and common lilac (Syringa vulgaris). A number of annuals were included along the front of the border to provide continuous and reliable color such as bat-faced cuphea (Cuphea llavea). We also included some focal point plants such as the castor bean (Ricinus communis), a large growing tropical annual with impressive leaves and red spikey seed pods, and hardy hibiscus with 8 inch pink flowers.
Also included in the grant was funding for four new interpretive panels. These panels will help inform our visitors about plant selection, cultivars and designing with colors textures and plant forms.
Some Flowers Are Worth
Waiting For
Approximately three years ago, I purchased rhizomes, underground stems used for storage similar to bulbs, of several plants related to edible ginger. While edible ginger plants (Zingiber officinale) and their flowers aren’t much to look at, there are many plants in the same family, Zingiberaceae, with outstanding and unusual flowers. Among these were beehive ginger (Zingiber spectabile) and a few species of torch ginger (Etlingera elatior). Along with the ginger plants I also purchased some rattlesnake plant rhizomes.
All the plants grew quite well from the large healthy rhizomes, but while the rattlesnake plant happily flowered the next year, the gingers did not. The next couple years the gingers continued to grow increasingly larger leaves, but to my dismay, showed no signs of flowering. Finally in the third year, the plants finally
decided they had grown large enough and started to produce flower stalks rewarding us several spectacular blooms.
The flower stems of ginger plants sprout up from underground rhizomes looking similar to a leaf stalk. The torch ginger flower stalks grow up to 3 or 4 feet. The flowers last only a week or two but go out in a blaze of glory with several flowers being produced in succession. The true flowers bloom from between the pink bracts which slowly peel back from the center. The beehive ginger flowers bloom much closer to the ground and as the name suggests, the bloom looks somewhat like a honeycomb or perhaps more accurately, a pinecone. The inflorescence lasts much longer and grows larger over time as the true flowers slowly bloom from between each of the colorful bracts from the bottom up.
Nate Tschaenn has been the Director of Horticulture at the Gardens since 2016 and previously served as the curator of the Crystal Bridge Conservatory starting in 2013. He came to Oklahoma after receiving his master’s degree in public horticulture through the Longwood Graduate Program. He received his bachelor’s degree in landscape horticulture from Ohio State University and spent four years managing the Costa Rica biome at Cleveland Botanical Garden.
The Color Curve garden was a favorite of visitors this summer. Inset: Hardy Hibiscus.
The beehive ginger (Zingiber spectabile) bloomed in early August inside the Crystal Bridge. It proved very popular on social media with 1,030 likes on Instagram alone. Photo by Nate Tschaenn.
Tanenbaum Reflection Garden dedicated
The Tanenbaum Reflection Garden was dedicated on June 20. The new garden area was made possible by major support from Glenna and Richard Tanenbaum, with additional help from Oklahoma City Community Foundation, Kirkpatrick Family Fund, and the City of Oklahoma City Water Conservation Program. It is designed to be a ‘garden within the Gardens’ offering a shady site for respite, reflection and tranquility.
Surrounded by large shade trees, the garden features a collection of ornamental foliage and flowering shade plants including Japanese Maple trees, fragrant hostas, hyrdrangeas, azaleas and more. A calming water feature inspired by Oklahoma landscapes adds to the peacefulness of the space.
• Viburnum plicatum f. tomentosum ‘Summer Snowflake’, Japanese Snowball
Pictured from left: Malarie Gotcher from the City of Oklahoma City Water Conservation Program; donors Dick and Glenna Tanenbaum; Jim Tolbert, Chair Emeritus; Maureen Heffernan, Executive Director and Nate Tschaenn, Director of Horticulture at the dedication in May. Photo by Carl Shortt Jr.
The Community Board of Directors attend the dedication. From left to right: Carl Shortt Jr., Jean McLaughlin, Gaily Huneryager, Avis Scaramucci, Linda Horn, Lynn Robberson, Gerry Bonds, Bob Calvert, Paul Lefebvre, Dr. Warren Filey, Jim Tolbert and Marsha See.
Gardens’ Crystal Bridge Conservatory South Lobby
Nearing Completion of Renovations
Renovation of the South Lobby space of the Crystal Bridge Tropical Conservatory began this summer and is scheduled for completion in November. This project includes renovation of the lower level spaces in the Crystal Bridge to function as classrooms for students from John Rex School, with 80, sixth graders that began school at the Gardens in August.
The renovation also features the creation of a new classroom for horticultural programs, and renovation of the south visitor lobby to make it a more attractive, functional and useable space for Gardens programs and rentals.
A members event, Jingle Mingle, will be held on Wednesday, November 29 to kickoff the holidays and celebrate the reopening.
Garden naming begins private support of Scissortail Park
Mayor Holt honors of his parents Mary Ann Fuller Holt and Stroud Holt
The Scissortail Park Foundation, the nonprofit organization that will manage Scissortail Park, announced the first private gift for The Park at a ceremony Friday, September 14.
The gift, which will help establish the Scissortail Park Foundation Endowment Fund with the Oklahoma City Community Foundation, was made by Mayor David Holt in honor of his parents Mary Ann Fuller Holt and Stroud Holt. In recognition of the Mayor’s gift, a garden room with a trellis feature in the northwest corner of The Park will be named the Mary Ann and Stroud Holt Garden.
The Scissortail Park Foundation Endowment Fund will provide permanent and lasting support for the future sustainability of Scissortail Park for purposes including educational programming, cultural events and activities that engage individuals and families of all ages. The Scissortail Park Foundation views the endowment as a signal to the community that the Foundation values fiscal responsibility and seeks to build this endowment fund to help provide for the future of Scissortail Park.
Mayor David Holt and his family pose for a photo at the September 14 announcement of the Mary Ann Fuller and Stroud Holt dedication of the garden. Photo by City of Oklahoma City.
Together Square Collaboration Announced
OGE Energy Corp., The Energy Assist Foundation, Team Griffin and the Gardens Plan Soccer Field and Basketball Court
Acollaboration between OGE Energy Corp., The Energy Assist Foundation, and Team Griffin is creating a unique space in the heart of Downtown OKC called Together Square. The old Stage Center site off Sheridan between Walker and Hudson will be temporarily transformed into an outdoor athletic facility featuring a basketball court branded by the Team Griffin Foundation, a futsal soccer court branded by the Energy Assist Foundation and a large open space for general use. (Futsal is an emerging form of soccer played on a smaller, hard-surface court.)
OG&E and partners expect to break ground soon and open the courts to the public in early 2019. The Gardens will provide general maintenance and care for the site including lawn care and related horticultural that will help connect the new site to the botanical gardens across the street. There are plans for native vine displays on fencing as well as the introduction of Oklahoma friendly tree species that are utility line compatible.
Upon completion of Together Square, the Gardens will also coordinate rentals of the courts and grounds for private and corporate events. Check the myriadgardens.org, as we will be posting construction updates, and details on how to inquire about rentals.
The current space sits between John Rex Elementary and the Gardens.
TUESDAYS, 5:45PM
Yoga Series at the Gardens
Check-in at the North Lobby to get class
Late arrivals not accepted after 5:50pm
Members $5; Nonmembers $10
This is a great, all-levels class. Class participants should bring a yoga mat and water. Class participants will meet in the north lobby for check-in each week. Drop in for a session or two or enjoy the entire series!
FALL - WINTER 2018 Fall
OCTOBER 5-21, 10AM-5PM
Pumpkinville presented by OGE Energy Corp.
Children’s Garden
FREE for Myriad Garden Members FREE for Children age 2 and under Nonmembers $8 per person
For all events visit page 3-4
Includes rides on the new Mo’s Carousel
Join us for our seventh annual Pumpkinville, in the Children’s Garden! Beginning October 5, bring your friends and family to one of the most treasured fall treats in Oklahoma City. Enjoy crafts, activities and imaginative displays in our New England Pumpkin Town that will get you in the spirit of the season. Each weekend families can enjoy activities and entertainment. It’s all just a bunch of Hocus Pocus! For a list of activities visit page 3-4.
Ride Mo’s Carousel FOR FREE with the purchase of a Family PLUS membership for $100.
Cost is $2 per ride, and it is free for Family PLUS members. The token machine for the carousel takes credit cards and cash. It will take debit cards only if the debit card can also serve as a credit card. Visa, MasterCard, Discover and American Express are accepted.
Join online at myriadgardens.org or email members@myriadgardens.org
SUNDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2-3:30PM
Spooky Pooch Parade
The Devon Lawn
$10 per member dog
$12 per non-member dog
Help us wind down the fall season by joining us for our Spooky Pooch Parade on The Devon Lawn. Enjoy spooky music by DJ Brian Smith, a performance by the OKC Disc Dogs, booths and our parade of pooches. Special guest judges will present prizes to the best and most creatively dressed pooches! 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 and visit Pumpkinville.
Costume Contest Categories:
• Best Human and Dog Costume
• Best Movie Character/Reference
• Best Food or Drink Costume
• Most Creative
• Funniest Costume
HEADS-UP TO GARDENS’ VISITORS:
The OKC Streetcar ribbon cutting is scheduled for December 14. The Myriad Gardens is one of 22 stops that will link major employers, businesses, attractions and residences in downtown. When attending an event at the Gardens please remember to park inside the white lines on Hudson. The stop in the Gardens is located off Hudson by Sheridan.
Photo by The Oklahoman
Winter FALL - WINTER 2018
SATURDAYS, NOVEMBER 17 & DECEMBER 1 & 15, 9-10:30AM
Learn to Curl
Devon Ice Rink at Myriad Gardens Members: $20; Nonmembers: $25 Advance registration is required online at myriadgardens.org
INSTRUCTED BY
Join the Oklahoma Curling Club members as they 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. This program normally sells out!
SUNDAY, DECEMBER 2, 9-11AM
Sensory Santa Morning
Crystal Bridge Tropical Conservatory Member: $8 per participant Nonmember: $12 per participant Accompanying adults FREE
An event tailored families with children with special needs, join us inside the Crystal Bridge Tropical Conservatory for a morning 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 Bekah Wade for details at rwade@ myriadgardens.org
SUNDAY, DECEMBER 9, 9:30-11:30AM
Polar Express PJ and Pancake Party
Park House Event Center
Member: $25; Nonmember: $30
Do you BELIEVE? Join us for a morning of holiday festivities in the Park House Event Center. Guests will be able to ice skate at the Devon Ice Rink, drink hot cocoa, eat pancakes and create Polar Express crafts! Our special guest, Santa, will also make an appearance to 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.
FRIDAY, DECEMBER 21, 7:30-10PM
Winter Solstice Celebration
Crystal Bridge Tropical Conservatory
$5 per person for Crystal Bridge
Entrance Fee
$8 to make a flower crown
Join us for the longest night of the year. Take advantage of extended hours in the Crystal Bridge for nighttime viewing of the décor inside as we stay open late past the regular closing time. Make a flower crown ($8 per crown), clove studded orange or a pine cone Christmas tree to take home for the evening or skate at the Devon Ice Rink open 11am-11pm.
ADMISSION
$13 includes skate rentals
$8 with your own skates Gardens Members skate for $7 (includes skate rental) Group Rate (10 or more guests) is $9 includes skates. Advanced reservation required for groups.
Wednesday, November 21, 11am-11pm Thursday, November 22, 3-9pm Friday, November 23, 11am-11pm
WINTER BREAK
Monday-Friday, December 17-2, 11am-11pm Saturday, December 22, 11am-11pm Sunday, December 23, 11am-7pm Christmas Eve, 11am-6pm Christmas Day, 12-7pm New Year’s Eve, 11am-11pm New Year’s Day, 11am-11pm
The Myriad Gardens’ Garden Groundbreakers enrichment program engages John Rex Middle School students in garden-based learning each week of the school year.
As the only botanical garden in the world to host a full-time primary school, I designed a unique hybrid curriculum model that unites modern schooling with horticultural education. Each interdisciplinary lesson corresponds to multiple Oklahoma Academic Standards. Planted in a foundation of science and mathematics, the program is infused with supplementary learning objectives in language and visual arts, along with social studies and health.
Strategically aligned to best instructional methods and integrated with essential vocabulary, students are encouraged to authentically explore nature. A few structured activities include seed starting, bulb planting, edible gardening, native plants, and STEM-based pollinator projects.
Gardens’ Education Staff Lead John Rex Students in Garden-Based Learning
By Joel Bramhall, Director of Education
An additional feature is the utilization of each signature lawn and garden space. These landscapes serve as vibrant environments for active learning, as well as remarkable backdrops for reflective studying.
The aim of this future-focused program is to enrich academic achievement, enhance environmental stewardship, encourage healthier lifestyles, and expand student ownership in Myriad Gardens. By cultivating positive student interactions with their natural surroundings today, it is my belief that these lively youth will grow into prosperous adults who value and appreciate nature.
Optimistically, I further believe the program’s success will propel school administrators and botanical garden and arboreta executives to seek partnerships in order to replicate this innovative approach for the benefit of all students, the planet, and our shared future together.
Joel Bramhall became the Myriad Gardens Director of Education in April. Raised on a farm in Nebraska, he learned firsthand the importance of sustaining the environment and building a successful business. As an educator, he inspired collegiate and secondary scholars, mentored colleagues, and earned acclaim for community projects. He is a graduate of Doane University, the alma mater of Crystal Bridge architect William J. Conklin.
John Rex Middle School students learn about plants native to Oklahoma in the Prairie Garden with Gardens’ educators Joel Bramhall and Lily Christman.
Photo by Carl Shortt Jr.
Youth and School Programs Coordinator Lily Christman, questions John Rex Middle School students to identify Little Bluestem in the Oklahoma Prairie Garden. Photo by Carl Shortt Jr.
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 3, 9AM-NOON
Presented by Cox Communications
Tree For All, our tree giveaway and sale, is back! Presented by Cox Communications, the first 100 patrons in line on the day of the event will receive a FREE Eastern Redbud, which is Oklahoma’s state tree. Register online at myriadgardens.org.
9AM FREE TREE GIVEAWAY
First come-first serve basis to first 100 patrons.
Trees are available for $12 for members and $15 for nonmembers with a limit of two trees per household. Trees come in a 3-gallon containers and can be up to 7 ft tall. All trees are Oklahoma Proven® varieties that perform best in challenging climates. Guests are encouraged to bring a wagon for transporting trees to their vehicle. Participate in free educational workshops on how to plant and care for your trees, which will be essential in maintaining plant health. A variety of booths and vendors will be on hand for you to visit. Special thanks to our presenting sponsor Cox Communications, along with the Tree Bank Foundation and Cedar Valley Nurseries.
See myriadgardens.org for event map, instructions, and further details.
A Cox Communications initiative 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.
Eastern Redbud
Cercis canadensis
Height & spread: 20’-30’ by 25’-35’
Sun requirements: Full sun to part shade
TREE FOR ALL: Tree Giveaway and Sale Returns Trees for
October Glory Maple
Acer rubrum ‘October Glory’
Height & spread: 40’-50’ by 30’-40’
Sun requirements: Full sun to part shade
Bald Cypress
Taxodium distichum
Height & spread: 50’-70’ by 20’-45’
Sun requirements: Full sun
SCHEDULE
9AM TO NOON TREE SALE & PICKUP How To Plant Your Tree Demonstration
KID’S TREE WALKUP Fun activities for kids!
WORKSHOPS
HOW TO CONSERVE WATER WITH A NEW TREE
Malarie Gotcher, Water Conservation Specialist, Utilities Department, The City of Oklahoma City
TREE CARE 101
Mark Bays, Urban Forestry Coordinator, Oklahoma Forestry Services
HOW TO PLANT YOUR TREE DEMONSTRATION
Myriad Gardens Horticulture Staff
Dynamite Crepe Myrtle
Lagerstroemia indica ‘Whit II’ Dynamite
Height & spread: 8’-20’ by 8’-18’
Sun requirements: Full sun
Sawtooth Oak
Quercus acutissima
Height & spread: 40’-60’ by 40’- 60’
Sun requirements: Full sun
Autumn Blaze Maple®
Acer x freemanii ‘Jeffersred’
Height & spread: 40’-55’ by 30’-40’
Sun requirements: Full sun to part shade
FALL - WINTER EDUCATION PROGRAMS
ONGOING
EVERY WEDNESDAY, 10AM
Reading Wednesdays
FREE
Best for ages 2 to 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. On the last Wednesday of the month the Downtown Library offers reading and craft timey. For groups of 10 or more please call Kodi Clifford at (405)-835-6789.
OCTOBER 23; NOVEMBER 6, 20; DECEMBER 4, 18, 10-11AM
Little Saplings
Every Other Tuesday Member $3; Nonmember $4 Best for ages 2 to 5
Join us in the Children’s Garden for an hour of songs, games, and interactive nature fun. Toddlers (and parents) will get to learn about the exciting world of gardens in an engaging and educational way. Each week features a new theme with corresponding activities and learning opportunities.
LAST SATURDAY MONTHLY, 10-11AM
Guided Walking Tour FREE
Geared towards adults, children and leashed dogs welcome.
Expand your knowledge of Oklahoma plants and find inspiration for your own garden with our educational walking tours. Each month will feature different plants from our outdoor collection that make great choices for our region – from spring color to drought tolerant choices and more. Self-guided plant tour handouts are available in our north lobby.
CHILDREN & FAMILIES
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 27, 10AM-NOON
Family Workshop: Seasonal Pumpkin Dioramas
Member $16; Nonmember $18
Jeanne Parkhurst, local educator/teaching artist For families, best for ages 7 to 12
Create a festive scene inside of a craft pumpkin to display in your home just in time for Halloween! Kids and families can work together or alone, using their imagination and a variety of supplies and techniques offered by the instructor.
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 10, 2-3:30PM
Sprouting Chefs:
Holiday Gifts In A Jar
Member $14; Nonmember $18
Donna Jung, FCS Extension Educator with Canadian County For families, preferably kids ages 5 and up
Learn how to create simple, thoughtful and tasty mason jar DIY treats to give as gifts during the holidays. First we’ll make a couple gifts in a jar, then we’ll get to sample a few of those goodies already cooked. All supplies will be provided, including clever labels and materials to make the gifts your own.
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 20, 11AM-NOON
Thanksgiving Tea Party
Member $6; Nonmember $8 Best for ages 5 to 9
Come enjoy a relaxing tea party with your family right before the busyness of Thanksgiving begins! We’ll sip homemade herbal tea, munch on a few snacks and read some festive stories. Everyone will get to create their own herbal tea blend to take home and enjoy.
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 17, 10-11AM
Family Workshop:
Wilderness Wreaths
Member $6; Nonmember $8
Olivia Tegeler, Children’s Garden Manager Best for ages 6 to 10
Join online at myriadgardens.org or email members@myriadgardens.org
Autumn is a perfect time to decorate and maintain a supportive habitat for a common Oklahoma birdthe American Goldfinch! In this hands-on lesson, participants will learn about goldfinches and how they can attract these birds to their home. We will end by creating a beautiful fall themed wreath out of natural materials that are useful to this bird, which include seeds and nesting materials.
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 1, 10-11AM
Family Workshop:
Snow Globe Worlds
Member $8; Nonmember $10 Best for ages 6 to 9
Learn how our furry animal and plant friends handle the cold winter weather as we play a game and read a few stories. Then we’ll create our own snowy worlds in mason jars using natural materials to take home to proudly display throughout the season. Class will include a nature walk if the weather allows.
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 8, 10-11AM
Winter Weather Wonderland
Member $5; Nonmember $6
Olivia Tegeler, Children’s Garden Manager Best for ages 7 to 11
Join us as we take a closer look at how blizzards and ice storms are formed by observing science experiments and visiting the Children’s Garden weather station, where we will find instruments that meteorologists use to predict these storms. We will finish the class by creating an icicle ornament and a snow gauge to take home as the start of your very own weather station!
FALL - WINTER EDUCATION PROGRAMS
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 15, 10AM-NOON
Gingerbread House Workshop
Member $35; Nonmember $40
All ages welcome. Children ages 8 and under will need chaperone help.
ADULT CLASSES
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 9, 7-8:30PM
Ladies’ Night Out: Floral Designs
Member $45; Nonmember $55 Chelsea Hughes, Calvert’s Plant Interiors
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 30, 7-8:30PM
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 1, 10-11:30AM
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 1, 1-2:30PM
We’ll learn about the flavorful ginger root –where it comes from, how it grows – and then discuss the history of gingerbread. We’ll finish by decorating our fragrant masterpieces. All supplies provided including gingerbread structure, frosting, candies for decorating and a little help if needed.
TUESDAY, DECEMBER 18, 10AM-NOON
Winter Break Natural Card Making
Member $12; Nonmember $13
Jeanne Parkhurst, local educator and teaching artist Best for ages 6 to 11
Gather your friends, sisters, and mother for a party with light refreshments and soothing tunes as you learn the basics and finer points of fashioning a floral arrangement you will take home. No experience necessary! Bring pruners.
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 15, 7-8:30PM
Myriad Kitchen: Soups and Salsas
Member $5; Nonmember $10
Trader Joe’s staff
Holiday Workshop: Living Wreaths (Evergreens) Member $45; Nonmember $55 Kaitlin Bacon, Plant Biologist
Design a classic, traditional evergreen wreath in this fun, hands-on holiday workshop. Receive specialized instruction as you create your own beautiful 1822” wreath to adorn your home. Evergreen wreaths are best for outdoors, while succulents are best for the indoors, so sign up for both classes and make each one.
Create festive greeting cards using inspiration and items from nature to give as gifts to family and friends this holiday season. Kids will get to use a variety of supplies from the art closet and the garden to craft handmade cards and stationary. Kids can be dropped off for the program - perfect for kids on Winter Break.
DECEMBER 19, 20 & 21, 10AM-NOON
December Drop-Ins
Member $4; Nonmember $5 Best for ages 6 to 10
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 and craft.
In this demonstration class, Trader Joe’s staff will prepare delectable dishes designed to support individuals in making more informed food decisions. Enjoy an assortment of take home selections, such as kitchen recipes, cooking tips, and bonus giveaways.
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 20, 7-8:30PM
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 1, 10-11:30AM
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 1, 1-2:30PM
Holiday Workshop:
Living Wreaths (Succulents) Friday, November 30, 7-8:30pm Member $75; Nonmember $85 Roberta Rowland, Horticulturist
Design a fantastic, modern succulent wreath in this fun, hands-on holiday workshop. Specialized instruction will lead you as you create your own beautiful 18-22” wreath to adorn any holiday display. Succulent wreaths are best for indoors, while evergreens are best for the outdoors, so sign up for both classes and make each one.
FRIDAY, DECEMBER 7, 6-7:30PM
Myriad Kitchen: Holiday Dessert Member $20; Nonmember $27 Pam Patty, RD/LD, Community Wellness Dietician for Integris Health; Oklahoma Master Gardener
Holidays in the kitchen are cherished memories. In this “make, take, and bake” workshop, the smell of Deep Dish Artisan Apple Pie will fill the room as you handcraft the crust from scratch, prepare the delicious filling, and assemble the pie. Take home to bake and enjoy when you want to eat it.
“We had so much fun last year. The living wreath class was fabulous and my succulent wreath is still very much alive which is a feat!”
-Kelli Dupuy
Pictured left to right: Kelli Dupuy with Katie Patton and Vicki Patton at last year’s Succulent wreath class.
On a warm and breezy night in May, more than 400 guests dined al fresco on The Devon Lawn for our biennial gala, Splendor in the Gardens. As the sun set and the twinkle lights came on, Celtic music from the Vintage Wildflowers filled the air as a multicourse meal prepared by local chefs Alain Buthion, Kamala Gamble, Barbara Mock, Allison Dake and Mitchell Dunzy was served on a spectacular table spanning the length of the lawn. Complimented by wines from Joullian Vineyards and Winery, this event serves as the biggest fundraiser for the Gardens and helps meet a matching grant from the Robert Glenn Rapp Foundation for a spring bulb display endowment.
Co-chairs Chris Fleming and Kathy Williams speak to the patrons.
Pictured below chefs Alain Buthion, Kamala Gamble and Barbara Mock.
Photos by Shannon Cornman.
Photo by Shannon Cornman.
Photos by Shannon Cornman and Carl Shortt Jr.
Members Make the Gardens Their Own:
MYriad Gardens
By Kiley Valentas, Gardens member since 2013
Early on in our adventures in parenting, my husband, Chris, and I would look for safe and fun places to take our tiny girl, Eloise, that were beautiful and enjoyable for us as well.
The Myriad Botanical Gardens became that magical oasis for us. We had visited before we had our daughter, and made several wonderful memories with friends, but as parents we began looking with a new perspective at all the Gardens had to offer.
Since that summer of 2013, and the addition of a baby boy, Walter, the Gardens have become a place of peace, rest, fun, beauty and magic for us. Whether it’s our whole family, myself and the kiddos or just me, we take the time to drive from Norman to the Gardens at least twice a month. This is a place where we can escape and focus on spending time together for a couple hours in the middle of a busy week or for a long afternoon on the weekend. We’ve picnicked and taken family pictures by the tulips in the spring, played in the Thunder Fountain and watched many Sonic Summer Movies on the
Devon Lawn, visited and revisited Pumpkinville in the fall, and enjoyed the activities and shops during Saturdays with Santa in the winter.
As a teacher, I appreciate that the Gardens provides so many opportunities for all Oklahomans to learn, have fun and make memories. Concerts, festivals, educational classes and family experiences readily available to all make us proud to be Myriad Gardens’ members. Our contribution as members helps the Gardens do more, and in return they are able to give even more back to our community.
I look forward to new and imaginative ways to enjoy the Gardens, like the Camp Out OKC this past summer. We can’t wait to see what ideas they have in store! As our city grows, so do our children and I know the Gardens will continue to be a special place for us and many others in the years ahead.
NEW Family PLUS Membership
Announcing the new Gardens’ Family PLUS membership! The Family PLUS membership will include all of the benefits on the Family membership in addition to free rides on our newly installed Mo’s Carousel, during operating hours.
Family PLUS $100 benefits include:
• Free admission for two adults and four children to the Crystal Bridge Tropical Conservatory (purchaser must be present with valid ID)
• $25 off our annual Oklahoma Gardening School (for one member and guest or co-member)
• Two membership cards per household
• Unlimited rides on our NEW Mo’s Carousel during operating hours
• Myriad Gardens commemorative gift
To Purchase visit us online at myriadgardens.org/support, stop by the Crystal Bridge Conservatory or call (405) 445-7087.
Walter, Eloise, Kylie and Chris Valentas at the first CampOutOKC on the Devon Lawn in July.
Celebrating dedicated Gardens volunteers
On Saturday, August 11, Myriad Botanical Gardens celebrated our Partner Volunteers with an appreciation luncheon in Park House Event Center. Partners dedicate 36 hours of service to the Gardens annually, with many volunteering even more. Staff thanked volunteers and rewarded them for their priceless gift of time spent the past year enriching the Gardens. Guests were honored with certificates, as well as plaques, which went to top honors. Erik Rash was awarded for more than 100 hours, Georgia Lamirand had more than 125 hours, and Sheri Nelson donated more than 175 hours of service to the Gardens in fiscal year 2018. Volunteers dined on fresh summer cobb salad and lemon custard strawberry shortcake prepared by Kamala Gamble. Afterwards, guests planted succulent terrariums to take home as a memento.
SEEKING VOLUNTEERS!
There’s always something happening in the Gardens. We are always seeking help and can guarantee it’s fun and good for your soul. There’s a variety of volunteer opportunities for adults, youth, and groups. Volunteers can either be:
Occasional Volunteers
Volunteering once or twice a year
Partner Volunteers
Dedicating 36 hours or more a year
Corporate/Group Volunteers
4 or more members of a unifying body that choose to volunteer together at the same time
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. Lose yourself in a magical, park-like atmosphere surrounded by the glittering lights the Devon Ice Rink.
For birthdays or corporate rentals call (405) 200-1547 or email rentals@myriadgardens.org.
ADMISSION
$13 includes skate rentals
$8 with your own skates Gardens Members skate for $7 (includes skate rental) Group Rate (10 or more guests) is $9 includes skates. Advanced reservation required for groups.
Thursday, November 29, 5 to 7:30 p.m. South Lobby of the Crystal Bridge
Join us to celebrate the season and the much-anticipated unveiling of renovated spaces inside the South Lobby
Enjoy a silent auction, greens market featuring fresh greenery and poinsettias for sale, treats and libations.
RSVP appreciated by Friday, November 23.
Call (405) 445-7080
New holiday event: Festival of the Greens
Festival of the Greens is Oklahoma’s largest open-air Christmas festival—an enchanting holiday celebration nestled in the center of Oklahoma City’s downtown at the Myriad Botanical Gardens. Inspired by cherished European holiday markets, the gardens transform into a Christmas market and festival focused on showcasing Oklahoma’s finest. Festival on the Greens is known for its high-quality gift vendors, Oklahoma artisans, delicious food, holiday cheer, and for being the ideal place for friends and families to create holiday traditions and memories. Visitors will enjoy children’s crafts, roaming entertainers, delightful treats, and unexpected surprises. It’s festively simple—it all centers around the best of Oklahoma!
A New Holiday Tradition: Night Lights in the Crystal Bridge
Enjoy a new take on holiday lighting inside the Crystal Bridge Tropical Conservatory beginning November 23 through January 2nd. Professional designers using the latest lighting technology are taking our holiday display to the next level, beyond strings of lights. Bring your out-of-town guests and show off the best of your city!
Admission is $5 Gardens’ members; $7 nonmembers, $3 member children, $5 ages 3-12 and 2 and under FREE.
HOURS
Tuesday-Thursday, 6-9pm Friday-Saturday, 6-10pm Sunday, 6-9pm Closed Mondays New Years Eve, 6-11pm New Years Day, 6-9pm (Closed December 8, 14 & 15 for rentals)
