The Bridge | Spring/Summer 2024

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.

THE BRIDGE EDITORIAL STAFF

DIRECTOR

Leslie

CREATIVE DIRECTION AND DESIGN

Sean

COVER

The table setting at Splendor in the Gardens. Photo by Shannon Cornman photography.

Myriad Gardens Foundation

Executive

Jim

Lindsey

Governor

Chris

John

Avis

Brooke

Linda

Gail

Steven

Michael

Dear Garden Friends:

Celebrating seasons and natural phenomena as a community is a rich and ancient human tradition. The last few weeks at the Gardens have powerfully demonstrated how public gardens should be viewed as critical infrastructure for cities and people’s quality of life. Botanical gardens and other public green spaces are so important to help us connect with nature and other people. They are vital gathering places to build community.

Our Tulip Festival, only in its second year, became one of our biggest gatherings yet during Easter Weekend. Over 35,000 visitors flocked to the festival to see 50,000 tulips madly blooming with colors too vibrant or softly subtle to even describe. The joyous flower colors were only matched by the blissful spring fever you catch when the earth is reawaking from winter. No wonder everyone looked so happy at the festival.

I had the best time watching visitors of all ages approach tulip beds and instinctively say, “Wow!” I never tire of seeing seemingly hundreds of babies and pups positioned in front of our tulips for beautiful keepsake photos. On the Devon Lawn, maypole dancers celebrated spring with their fanciful ribbon dances while inviting visitors to join them in this ancient vernal rite.

On April 8, several thousand people again congregated on the Devon Lawn to view the rare solar eclipse. People wanted to be around others while all experiencing the weirdly changing light and shadows, the temperature drop, and to collectively wear the eclipse glasses provided by Dean McGee Eye Institute to witness the stunning images of the moon blocking the sun. One felt a connection to ancient ancestors who also would have gathered as a tribe or small community to look up in wonder at this seemingly supernatural phenomenon.

While we must wait decades for another eclipse, we have many other returning events on the Great Lawn this summer including concerts, movies, and wellness programs. Plus, new horticultural education programs have been added to the calendar. Speaking of lawns, we are working to renovate our Sheridan Lawn with increased planting beds and benches which will make the area a more desirable place to enjoy.

Finally, one of our favorite spring gatherings returns to the Devon Lawn on May 16. Our fundraising gala, Splendor in the Gardens – A Taste of the Rainforest, whose flowers, food, and music take inspiration from the plants and cultures in tropical zones will be an evening to be remembered. I hope you can join us!

Thank you for your support of Myriad Gardens,

Maureen Heffernan and the team gather for the Solar Eclipse Watch event on April 8, equipped with solar eclipse glasses courtesy of the Dean McGee Eye Institute.

Introducing the New Community Board Members of the Gardens

The Community Board of Myriad Botanical Gardens plays a crucial role in assisting the Myriad Gardens Foundation achieve its objectives. Board members actively support, promote, and stay updated on the foundation’s mission, serving as advocates in the community to emphasize the Gardens’ significance locally and statewide.

During the April meeting of the Community Board of Directors, six new members were elected to a three-year term. The newly appointed members are Vonnie Garner, Brooke Haneborg, Gail Hunerayger, Steven Kerr, Chris Lawson, and Harry Meister.

Vonnie Garner

Vonnie is Vice President and Senior Regional Community Relations Manager at the Bank of Oklahoma. She actively participates in various organizations and committees, including the Juliette Low Society Luncheon Committee for Girl Scouts of Western Oklahoma and Leadership Oklahoma City’s Class 40. In the past, she has been involved in a range of roles, such as serving on the Scholarship Committee for the Latino Community Development Agency, being a Community Blood Council Member for Oklahoma Blood Institute, and acting as a Team Leader for the Total Resource Development Campaign for the Greater Oklahoma City Chamber. Vonnie has also contributed to events and programs like the Festival of the Arts, OETA’s on-air fundraising campaign, Toast for Coats Gala, Strategic Planning Committee for Sharing Tree, and Event Committee Volunteer for United Way of Central Oklahoma. Additionally, she has volunteered as an In School Teacher Pilot Program for Girl Scouts of Western Oklahoma and is an Alumni Board member of Leadership OKC LOYALL II.

Brooke Haneborg

Brooke holds the Director of Business Development position for the Oklahoma City region at Manhattan Construction Company. She participates in the SSM Health St. Anthony Hospital Foundation Board and the Girl Scouts of Western Oklahoma Board. Additionally, she serves as an Advisory Board member of the University of Oklahoma Breast Institute. Brooke’s achievements include being named among OKC Friday’s Newspaper’s Next Generation of Most Powerful Oklahomans and receiving the title Oklahoma City Greater Panhellenic Woman of the Year for Alpha Delta Pi. Additionally, she is a proud Leadership Oklahoma City’s Signature Class 33 graduate.

Gail Huneryager

Gail, a former Community Board member of Myriad Botanical Gardens, recently retired as the Chief Marketing Officer of HoganTaylor. Before her role at HoganTaylor, she dedicated over 16 years to Crowe & Dunlevy as the Director of Marketing and Business Development. She was Marketing Manager at Grant Thornton for several years before joining Crowe & Dunlevy. Her philanthropic efforts extend to serving on various nonprofit boards, including The Library Endowment Trust, Sunbeam Family Services, and The First Tee. Gail is a distinguished Leadership Oklahoma City and Leadership Oklahoma graduate and an active member of Rotary Club 29 and Allied Arts Circle Club. Gail also led the American Cancer Society’s Cattle Baron’s Ball, raising over $130,000. She has been recognized thrice by The Journal Record’s Fifty Making a Difference, and in 2016, she was inducted into the program’s Circle of Excellence.

Steve Kerr

Steve has managed his law firm, The Kerr Law Firm, since 1994, focusing on probate, family law, adoptions, small business startups, and nonprofit organizations. He serves as a trustee of the Kerr Foundation, Inc., and holds the roles of Vice President and CFO. Steve has been involved with various organizations, including the Family Law Section of the Oklahoma Bar Association, the Advisory Board of UCO’s School of Fine Arts and Design, the Board of Trustees of the Oklahoma City Museum, and many more, such as the Oklahoma Symphony Orchestra and the Edmond Arts and Humanities Council.

Chris Lawson

Chris Lawson is the President and CEO of The Ann Lacy Foundation, a pivotal supporter of diverse cultural, athletic, and educational nonprofits in the vibrant Oklahoma City metropolitan area. Notably, Chris played a vital role in the inception of RIVERSPORT Adventures at Lake Overholser, showcasing his dedication to enhancing recreational opportunities. Beyond his philanthropic endeavors, he leverages his expertise as an information technology consultant, spearheading impactful initiatives through his company, Lawson & Associates. With a passion for community enrichment and technological innovation, Chris continually works to have a positive effect on both the philanthropic and business landscapes within Oklahoma and beyond.

Harry Meister

Harry is a health insurance broker for Bankers Insurance Group. He wears multiple hats as the publisher and co-owner of the MidCity Advocate newspaper. His commitment to community service is evident through his active involvement in various boards, including the Neighborhood Alliance of Central Oklahoma, MidTown Association, American Diabetes Association of Central and Western OK, Mesta Park Neighborhood Association, Horizon Circle of United Way, Alpha Tau Omega Zeta Nu Chapter, and Bricktown Rotary. Additionally, he is a valued member of the Downtown Rotary, Western Avenue Association, Plaza District Association, and Festival of the Arts committee.

Remembering Christina

It is with great sadness that we remember the passing of Christina Rehkop, a cherished member of the Myriad Gardens Foundation community board.

As the Director of Community Relations at Devon Energy, Christina had a positive and long-lasting impact on the community through her dedicated work on various initiatives, forging connections between the Gardens and Devon.

You could often see the Rehkop family at the Gardens participating in events. Christina’s invaluable contributions spanned from 2018 until her untimely passing, and those who worked with her will mourn her loss for a long time. She left an indelible and meaningful mark on us all.

The Meinders Terrace Garden drew several visitors with vibrant tulip hues, showcasing the horticulture staff’s exceptional talent in pairing tulips each year

Join us Thursday, May 16, for Splendor in the Gardens, a farm-to-table dinner on the Devon Lawn with the beautiful downtown Oklahoma City skyline as the backdrop. This year the event will feature food, wines, and an ambiance inspired by the rainforest. Cocktails will begin at 6pm in the South Plaza at the Inasmuch Foundation Crystal Bridge Conservatory followed by a seated dinner. Proceeds from the event support the gardens and grounds, educational programs, and community outreach.

Splendor in the Gardens will also celebrate James Loftis, FAIA, for his architectural contribution to the interior design of the Crystal Bridge Conservatory going back to the 1980s. He is a Fellow of the American Institute of Architects, and his enduring dedication to the Myriad Gardens has been unwavering, remaining a testament of his commitment to this day.

Event chair Gail Huneryager recently rejoined the Myriad Gardens Foundation community board where she served for 10 years. Her proven track record and leadership skills with fundraising will ensure a successful year for Splendor in the Gardens

To become a sponsor or for ticket information, contact Marlo Turner mturner@myriadgardens.org or call (405) 774-9922. Sponsorships begin at $600. Individual tickets are on sale for $175 each.

Visit myriadgardens.org/splendor for more information and to purchase tickets.

Presenting Sponsor

The Chickasaw Nation

Benefactor Sponsor

Glenna and Dick Tanenbaum

Lead Sponsors

The Ann Lacy Foundation

Jean McLaughlin

Polly and Larry Nichols

Platinum Sponsors

Jean I. Everest Foundation

Robert Meinders

W&W/AFCO Steel

Gold Sponsors

BancFirst

Continental Resources

Devon Energy Corp.

Lingo Construction

Newmark Robinson Park

OG&E

Scaramucci Foundation

Silver Sponsors

American Fidelity Foundation

Direct2Completion

HoganTaylor

Gail and Gary Huneryager

Manhattan Construction

Kent Phillips

Robert Glenn Rapp Foundation

Bronze Sponsors

Bank of Oklahoma

Gerry and Ken Bonds

Crowe & Dunlevy

Dr. and Mrs. Warren Filley

Maureen Heffernan

The Kerr Foundation

Janis and James Loftis

VP of Development, Marlo Turner, with board member and honorary chair, James Loftis, and chair, Gail Huneryager.

APGA Open House & Disaster Preparedness Workshop Draws Visitors from Across the Region

Held on February 20 and 21 at the Gardens

The American Public Gardens Association (APGA) recently hosted the “Disaster Readiness Workshop” at Myriad Botanical Gardens on February 21. On February 20 the Gardens staff hosted an open house. The open house included a presentation on the Conservatory Reimagined renovation project by Maureen Heffernan, CEO, and Nate Tschaenn, director of horticulture. Participants also enjoyed a behind-thescenes tour, exploring mechanical elements such as irrigation, HVAC, water features, and lighting.

The discussions covered public art, education, community events, and volunteer programs and ended with a bonus activity – riding on Mo’s Carousel.

Attendees toured Scissortail Park and Arboretum and Union Station. The day wrapped up at the Park House Events Center with cocktails and dinner. More than 40 guests from public gardens came from Arkansas, Illinois, Kansas, Missouri, New Mexico, North Carolina, Oklahoma and Texas.

Michelle Provaznik, the American Public Gardens Association CEO, highlighted the event’s value in providing insights for public garden staff on disaster planning and emphasized the importance of establishing relationships with local emergency management officials. She commended the passion and commitment demonstrated by the Myriad Gardens and Scissortail Park staff, underscoring the event’s role as a platform for knowledge sharing and networking.

President and CEO Maureen Heffernan, along with Director of Horticulture Nate Tschaenn, present the Conservatory Reimagined renovation project to APGA attendees at the Park House.

Representatives from the Oklahoma City Zoo engage in the APGA Workshop.

APGA attendees from Tulsa Botanic delight in a ride on Mo’s Carousel.

NEW FURNITURE DONATION FOR THE CRYSTAL BRIDGE

The Gardens appreciates the Eluned and Edward Russell Charitable Foundation for its generosity in funding the seating inside the Inasmuch Foundation Crystal Bridge Conservatory on the north second floor terrace. Thanks to the foundation’s support, visitors can now enjoy a moment of respite while overlooking the lush green canopy of the Conservatory.

Thank you to the generous support from the Robert Glen Rapp Foundation for our Tulip Fund, which helps us purchase and plant our beautiful tulip bulbs.

Photos by Sean Ball, Creative Director

Having a conservatory provides an exciting opportunity for us to grow and flower rare and unusual plants like our corpse flower. Now, with the addition of our new lily pond, we can grow another cool plant, the Santa Cruz water lily. This giant water lily has leaves, sometimes referred to as water-platters, that can reach 6 feet in diameter! It is unlikely ours will ever reach that size in our relatively small pond, but last summer we were getting leaves of around 3 feet and expect them to be a bit larger this year. The leaves can support a surprising amount of weight, up to 100 pounds when fully mature, and the undersides are covered in sharp spines.

While the leaves are likely the main attraction of this waterlily, it was still quite exciting for us to get our first blooms last fall. The giant flower buds, which are also covered in spines, open at night into large, pure white blooms about 12 inches across with a strong scent of pineapples. The flower attracts small beetles as pollinators and will close in the morning trapping the beetles until it reopens the next night after releasing its pollen to be spread to other flowers. Upon reopening the second night, the white flower faded to a beautiful pale pink.

Of course, I had to spend a couple nights at the conservatory to witness the blooms opening myself. You can see the bloom slowly unfold over 10 minutes. I can now attest to the fact that the flowers do have a delicious pineapple fragrance.

Santa Cruz water lily. Allyson Tschaenn is holding the pink second night flower. The other is the white first night flower.

The thorny underside of the water lily pad.

Sheridan Lawn Renovation Update

Thanks to a $15,000 grant from the Oklahoma City Community Foundation, the Sheridan Lawn at the Meinders Garden will undergo a transformation that enhances its allure and function. The grant is part of the foundation’s Parks & Public Space Initiative. It will play a vital role in enhancing the Sheridan Lawn on the north side of the Gardens, allowing the Gardens to better serve the recreational needs of Oklahoma County residents.

To ensure the new Sheridan Lawn complements the nearby space, the horticulture staff at Myriad Botanical Gardens is collaborating with landscape architect Scott Murase on the project. Murase also designed the Meinders Garden and its Terrace. When it is finished, visitors will see a vibrant mix of plants along the border,

including native flowering shrubs, ornamental grasses, perennials, and bulbs. The current granite border, which is decomposed, will be removed.

The entire project will enhance the lawn’s resilience and visual appeal, making it suitable for various events such as café style seating during events, weddings, and leisurely strolls. The need for the renovation developed due to challenges created by maturing tree canopies and limited grass growth due to the resulting shade. This project will provide more opportunities for the understory beds – the beds below the canopies.

The renovation will also expand the Meinders Garden with new beds, integrating smaller paths for easy navigation. It includes installing a flagstone landing and steppingstones to facilitate seamless transitions from sidewalks to the lawn space.

Overall, this renovation shows the community’s dedication to preserving and enhancing public spaces. With the Oklahoma City Community Foundation’s support, this project not only addresses challenges posed by maturing tree canopies but also sets the stage for a rejuvenated and vibrant outdoor space accessible to all.

Look for the finished project this summer.

The Sheridan Lawn rendering by landscape architect Scott Murase. Rendering at press time.

Container Gardening Tips

The “Filler, Thriller and Spiller” Standard

By Matt Janda, Associate Director of Horticulture and Grounds

Planning and designing summer annual containers in Oklahoma can be a delightful and successful venture when incorporating the popular “thriller, filler, and spiller” rule. This design principle helps create visually appealing and well-balanced container gardens.

Start with the “thriller,” which is typically a tall, eyecatching plant that serves as the focal point. With our hot summers, consider heat-loving thrillers like ornamental grasses, cannas, or tall tropical hibiscus. These plants add vertical interest and create a dynamic centerpiece for your container.

Next, introduce the “filler” plants, which surround the thriller and add bulk to the arrangement. Choose mid-sized annuals like pentas, zinnias, or Angelonias that complement the color palette of your thriller. Ensure these fillers are well-suited to the intense summer heat, displaying vibrant blooms and lush foliage.

Complete the arrangement with “spiller” plants that gracefully spill over the edges of the container, softening the overall look. Trailing varieties like ‘Silver Falls’ dichondra, purslane, or sweet potato vines, work well. They not only enhance the visual appeal but also provide a sense of fullness.

By adhering to the “thriller, filler and spiller” rule and carefully selecting heat-tolerant plants, you can design stunning and resilient summer annual containers that thrive in our challenging summers, bringing beauty and vitality to your outdoor spaces.

Spring/ Summer

ADULT CLASSES

Ongoing

Guided Walking Tour

Second Friday of the month, 1-2PM

Last Saturday of the month, 10-11AM | FREE

Expand your knowledge of Oklahoma plants and find inspiration for your own garden with an educational walking tour, led by one of our knowledgeable horticultural staff. Although geared towards adults, children and leashed dogs are welcome.

APRIL | Adult Classes

Workshop: Kokedama Planting

Sunday, April 28, 2-4PM

M $45; NM $50 | Wei Li, Simple Morea Register by April 25

Kokedama is a botanical planting style originating in Japan and popular in modern aesthetics. Ornamental houseplants are planted within balls of soil and moss and can be hung or displayed decoratively. Join Wei Li of Simple Morea in learning the art of kokedama in this workshop. Guests will leave with a complete kokedama they have made, including a plant.

MAY | Adult Classes

Creating a Monarch Waystation

Saturday, May 4, 10-11AM

M $18; NM $22 | Peggy Turner, Oklahoma County Master Gardener Register by May 2

Monarch Waystations are garden habitats specifically designed to provide the resources necessary for monarchs to produce successive generations and sustain their migration. Learn how to build your own waystation from the ground up, including planning and design, sourcing host and nectar plants, garden maintenance, and certification. Participants will head home with one host plant and one nectar plant.

Irrigation and Water Conservation Workshop

Saturday, May 4, 1-4 PM

M $10; NM $12 | Nate Tschaenn, Director of Horticulture + Kaitlin Bacon, Director of Education Register by May 2

As water prices rise and droughts become more frequent, it has never been more important to learn sound strategies for efficient irrigation. From installing drought-tolerant plants (xeriscaping) to drip irrigation and more, there are many strategies available for minimizing water usage efficiently. Hands-on construction and installation of a drip irrigation system will be part of the class.

Pest Management for the Garden

Thursday, May 9, 6-7PM

M $10; NM $12 | Dale and Carrie Spoonemore, From Seed to Spoon | Register by May 6

Join the creators behind From Seed to Spoon in learning pest management techniques that are organic and food friendly. Techniques from trellising to crop rotation, deterring pests or managing them, and inviting natural predators into your garden all will be covered.

Workshop: Foraged Floral Arrangements

Saturday, May 11, 10-11:30AM

M $45; NM $50 | Kaitlin Bacon, Director of Education Register by May 9

Discover the art of crafting floral arrangements using seasonal flowers and garden foliage. This class offers a basic introduction to floral design, guidance on collected materials, and a hands-on session for gathering items outdoors. Participants will create their own arrangements to take home, learn foraging tips, and explore methods to prolong the life of their creations.

Workshop: Oshibana ‘Pressed Flowers’

Saturday, May 11, 2-4PM

M $35; NM $40 | Kaitlin Bacon, Director of Education Register by May 9

Oshibana is the art of using pressed flowers, leaves, and seeds to create beautiful pieces of art. Join us in creating our own masterpieces through these botanical elements and take home a piece of stunning natural art created and displayed within a floating frame.

JUNE | Adult Classes

Workshop: Vermicompost Bins

Saturday, June 8, 2-4PM

M $30; NM $35 | Kaitlin Bacon, Director of Education Register by June 6

Vermicompost bins are an eco-friendly method of composting kitchen scraps, ideal for any home. Discover how to create and maintain a ‘worm bin,’ ensuring the well-being of your worms and yielding nutrient-rich compost. Attendees will take home a functional bin with worms and essential know-how for successful composting.

Growing Your Own Microgreens

Thursday, June 13, 6-7PM

M $12; NM $15 | Dale and Carrie Spoonemore, From Seed to Spoon | Register by June 10

As summer approaches and our gardens transition to the heat, now is the perfect time to start microgreens. Rich in vitamins and boasting a host of health benefits, microgreens are easy to start and quick to harvest. Join Dale and Carrie Spoonemore as they demonstrate and discuss how to start, care for, harvest, and enjoy your very own microgreens this summer.

YOUTH & FAMILY

Reading Wednesdays

Meet in the Visitor Center Lobby Wednesdays 10AM| Free, Donations Accepted Best for Ages 2-5

On Wednesdays, toddlers can listen to nature-themed story time, enjoy interactive songs, seasonal book selections, and some weeks may even feature a fun craft activity after the story. On May 15 Reading Wednesdays will go on a break then return when summer drop-ins start back on June 24.

Save on classes by becoming a member today!

Enjoy exclusive membership benefits, including discounts on class registrations. Visit myriadgardens.org/ membership to learn more and join our members.

CLASS REVIEWS ARE IN!

“10/10 would recommend! More residents need to know how easy it can be.” - Katy

“Excellent speaker/presentation, engaging, informative, and animated.” - Rio

“Great class. Really enjoyed it. Thank you.” - Bethany

“It was a fantastic program that really helped me a lot and I could not wait to start my garden.” - Alicia

“I enjoy all of Kaitlin’s classes. She is very knowledgeable and kind.” - Marlene

“Incredible class and value extremely knowledgeable and fun instructors!” - Matthew

“This is our fifth foraging class, and I learn something new every time. This is a great class.” - Kathryne

“Another excellent program. This class brings me so much joy and delight every season it is offered. Many thanks to the team - Kaitlin, Joel, and Kylie.” - Janice

MAY | Youth & Family

Fairy Tea Party

Saturday, May 4, 11AM-12PM

M $13 NM $15 | Terrace Room | Best for ages 4-8 Register by May 1

Join us for a fanciful fairy tea party. Guests will make fairy wands and flower crowns as we enjoy muffins and fairy juice.

Water Coloring in the Garden Drop-In

Saturday, May 4, 2-3PM

Children’s Garden | Free, $2 suggested donation Best for Ages 4-16

Use the garden as inspiration for your work of art. Stop by the Children’s Garden porch to get a tray of art materials and then find a cozy spot in the garden to let your creativity flow.

Salad Garden Greenhouses

Friday, May 24, 11AM-12PM

Children’s Garden | M $8; NM $10 | Best for ages 5-10 | Register by Wednesday, May 22

Lettuce, tomatoes, basil, oh my. Create your very own seedstarting greenhouse to take home and grow salad greens.

JUNE | Youth & Family

Hummingbird Sun Catchers

Saturday, June 8, 10-11AM

Children’s Garden | M $8; NM $10 | Best for Ages 5-10

Register by June 5

Flutter on over to the Children’s Garden to create your very own hummingbird sun catcher. We will go on a garden hike to find plants that hummingbirds love.

Summer Craft Series:

Daisy Friendship Bracelets

Saturday, June 8, 2-3PM

Children’s Garden

Free, $2 suggested donation Best for ages 8 and up Register by Wednesday, June 5

Want to learn a new hobby? Come join us for our first kids summer series: craft edition! One Saturday a month will be dedicated to crafting with a botanical theme. The first will be learning how to create glow-in-thedark daisy friendship bracelets.

First

Day of Summer Drop In

Thursday, June 20th, 10am–12pm

Children’s Garden Porch | Free, Donations Accepted Best for Ages 4-12

Join us on the Children’s Garden Porch as we celebrate the first day of summer with nature art and activities.

Summer Walk-ups

Weekdays June 24 through August 9, 10am-noon

Children’s Garden Porch | $2 Suggested Donation All ages

Make It Monday

Tasty Tuesday

Reading Wednesday

Pot-It-Up Thursday

Scavenger Hunt Friday

Mo’s Carousel at Myriad Gardens

Take a ride on Mo’s Carousel this summer! Summer hours are beginning May 22. Tuesday-Sunday, 127pm. Closed Mondays. $3 to ride. Cards only. Free for Family PLUS Gardens members.

Myriad in Motion FREE Fitness

YOGA

Tuesday, 6PM and Saturday, 9AM

Devon Lawn (Location subject to change due to weather)

Bring a mat and water.

SOUND BATH

Water Plaza Room, Lower Level, Crystal Bridge Conservatory, All sound baths are 6-7PM

May 7 - New Moon

June 21 - Full Moon

July 21 - Full Moon

August 19 - Full Moon

FULL MOON BIKE RIDES

Meet at Seasonal Plaza

Bring your bike (s) and join us for this month’s 6- to 8-mile leisurely one-hour ride. Steve Schlegel of Schlegel Inspections develops the route and announces before departure. Lights and helmets are needed. There will be T-shirts and water bottles for sale. A $5 donation is suggested and REALLY appreciated.

May 23, 8:30PM

June 21, 8:45PM

July 21, 8:45PM

August 19, 8:15PM

ZUMBA

Every first and third Thursday, May 2 through October 17. Meet at 5:30pm on the Seasonal Plaza

DANCING IN THE GARDENS

Seasonal Plaza, 7PM - Dance Lesson | 8PM - Dance

MAY 17 - SALSA NIGHT

Hosted by Tango PR, Dance Instructor Marti Rickman with music by DJ RedHanded

JUNE 14 – BOLLYWOOD DANCE

Hosted by the India Association of Oklahoma

The Myriad Botanical Gardens is thrilled to welcome SPARK as the new sponsor for our summer movies. SPARK is located at the Gardens’ sister park, Scissortail Park, with a menu the features burgers, bites, and cold delights and is known for its classic SPARK Burger, Pink Fries, and Frozen Peach Club Special. SPARK offers something to everyone. A scoop of their custard is a must. It’s been a popular lunchtime spot in the Park since opening in October 2021.

Arts Council of OKC’s

GRAB BURGERS, BITES, AND COLD DELIGHTS FROM SPARK. View the menu at eatatspark.com

Devon Lawn

June 16, June 30, July 7, July 14, 7PM Line up to be announced. Visit artscouncilokc.org

Shop More than 60 Vendors at OKC Flower & Garden Festival

Saturday, May 11, 9AM-4PM, Located off Hudson

Join thousands of attendees to shop with over 60 vendors for every type of plant and flower imaginable to add to your home and garden. From native plants to exotic succulents, you’ll find something special to add to your space. There will also be vendors selling art, jewelry, soaps, food, and more!

2024 VENDORS

Plants & More

The Botanical Bronco

The Burress Homestead

CD3 Farms

Chaos Cactus

Darkside Cactus

Duck Creek Farms

Fennel & Clove

Happy Plants

Hello Garden OKC

Hickory Lane Plants

Lia’s Garden at CommonWealth

Little Redz Weedz

Midwest Propagation Nursery

NEOKC Farmer’s Market

Oklahoma Iris Society

Oklahoma Seed & Bulb Co.

OSU Extension

Out On a Limb Boutique

Parker’s Plants

The Papercrete Potter

Peppermint Rose Shop

The Plant Dudes

Prairie Wind Nursery

Rainy Day Botanicals

Sanctuary Gardens

Simple Morea

SE Plant Co

Something2GrowOn

Starlight Botanicals

Strength and Serenity Homestead

Susan Cromer Yback

True Colors Nursery

Well Rooted Plant Co.

Wild Roots

Wild Things Nursery

Jewelry

A Good Space Studio

BekahSometimes

Elegant Design by Rhonda

Handmade with Loveless

Lucky Lulu

Pam Barrymore Jewelry

Art

Art by Reshon

Metal Art by Us

Southwest Silhouettes

The Lotus Potter

Food & Drinks

Angry Scotsman

Hailley’s Cakes and Catering

Oklahoma Kettle Corn

Scrummy Munch

Wildhorse Canyon Farms

Wondervan Pops

Varieties

A New Leaf Woodturning

Cicada Song Designs

The Feather’s Edge

Glassy Girls

The Goat Farmer’s Wife

It’s Thee Balm

Ji’s Crafts

Okie Dirt

Myriad Gardens Shop

Norah’s Way

Osage Oasis

PAMBE Ghana’s Global Market

Riverwalk Bead Design

The Spice Girl Kitchen

Sylvie Company

Tall Grass Prairie Soap

Wine and Palette

Free for viewing in the Inasmuch Foundation Crystal Bridge Conservatory Lobby. Open daily, 9AM-5PM and Sunday 11AM-5PM. Works of art are for sale.

Still Life With a Guitar: Works

by Micheal Jones

Through May 30

Michael Jones is a local artist who has exhibited in well-known juried national shows from Los Angeles to New York and has a set of mezzotints in the State Museum of Yekaterinburg, Russia.

Throughout his life, Micheal has worked steadily, teaching, creating, and exhibiting his unique style of painting and printmaking with no sign of slowing down.

Wings and Wildflowers

Pollinators of Oklahoma

May 31 – August 8

This summer, Myriad Gardens will unveil a captivating indoor and outdoor exhibit showcasing Oklahoma pollinators and the native plants they pollinate, highlighting their crucial role in Oklahoma’s ecosystem. Wings and Wildflowers: Pollinators of Oklahoma will feature the work of over a dozen handpicked local artists, the exhibit will present unique artwork portraying native Oklahoma pollinators alongside the specific flowers they pollinate. Each artist will craft two pieces, offering a vibrant depiction of Oklahoma’s wildlife diversity, including bees, beetles, hummingbirds, flies, wasps, and butterflies. The exhibit will adorn the Crystal Bridge Conservatory’s Art Gallery from May 31 to August 8 and will also be reproduced on banners displayed throughout the grounds.

Humming bird by Kris Kanaly.

Van Gogh Irises Canvas Tote Bag

This canvas tote bag is perfect for the spring and summer months. It features Dutch artist Vincent Van Gogh’s Irises.

Leap Roaster Coffee

This small batch coffee is roasted in Oklahoma and features local artists on their bags. Every batch is so unique, roasted thoughtfully & evenly to bring out maximum flavor potential. It’s this intentionality that helps unlock the magic aromas of Leap Roaster’s organic beans.

Kallos Ink Native Plants of Oklahoma Tote Bag

This locally made and designed tote bag features beautiful watercolor flora from our great state! The canvas tote is sturdy and perfect for a trip to the farmer’s market.

The Cocktail Garden: Botanical Cocktails for Every Season by Ed Loveday

Invite the scent of botanical gardens into your home with fragrances from Fikkerts Kew Gardens Collection! Enjoy the sweet scent of amber and jasmine with Amore, the fresh scent of rose and freesia with Flores, or brighten up your senses with citris and herbs from Herbis. Whether you’re looking for soap, bath essence, hand cream, or body spray, you’re sure to find one you love.

Ori recycled nylon bag

The crossbody is perfect for any occasion. Effortlessly taking you from day to night.

Amuseable Sun from Jellycat

Amuseable Sun and Amuseable Sun Bag are here to brighten up the room! But there’s no need for shades or sunblock – this chubby, cuddly bundle of rays is content to glow softly and warm your heart. An all-weather friend in buttery gold, sporting cheery cordy chocolate feet.

Members get 10% off the entire purchase discount. Become a member at checkout or online at myriadgardens.org/membership

THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT

Every donation contributes to the growth of the Gardens and sustains our commitment to being accessible to the public. The individuals, companies, and foundations mentioned in the upcoming pages have supported the Gardens from January 1, 2023, to March 15, 2024, with a contribution. We extend our heartfelt thanks to these contributors, as their generosity plays a vital role in maintaining the Gardens.

$500 - $2,499

Pat and Van Barber

The Blackbaud Giving Fund

Jil and Tony Boghetich

Karen and Robert Browne

Sara and Andy Burnett

Calvert’s Plant Interiors

Thomas Coniglione

Crowe & Dunlevy

Downtown OKC, Inc.

Edward Jones

Karen and Warren Filley

First National Bank of Oklahoma

Fred Jones Family Foundation

Hall Estill

Linda Haneborg

Suzette and Kim Hatfield

HoganTaylor

Howard Family Charitable Foundation, Inc

Lezlie and David Hudiburg

Leslie and Cliff Hudson

Barbara and M.D Jirous

Michael S. Laird

Marianne B Rooney Trust

Midtown Vets

Dee Morales Musallam

Oklahoma Tobacco Settlement Endowment Trust

Oklahoma Windows & Doors, LLC

Kent E. Phillips

James Pickel

Mary and D. Joe Rockett

Beth and Carl Shortt

Sally and Jeff Starling

Super Cao Nguyen

Total Environment, Inc.

Mike Ura

Erin M. Van Laanen and John Myles

Walmart c/o Sam’s Club

Williams, Box, Forshee & Bullard, P.C.

Carolyn and Don Zachritz

Charles M. Zeeck

Contributing Members at the Benefactor Level

Audrey and Bill Kemp

Trasan and Kevin Pitcock

Kim Puterbaugh

Katherine and John Spaid

Patti and John Thompson

Gifts below $499

Amazon Smile

American Fidelity Foundation

American Online Giving Foundation, Inc.

American Fidelity Assurance Company

Stephanie Bacoski

Heather and Henry Baer

Stephanie Bailey

Steve Bane

Gail Bartlett

Sharon Beasley

The Benevity Community Impact Fund

Colleen Bennett

Eloise Bentley

Shirley and Jon Blaschke

Camille Boggs

Annie Bohanon

Gerry and Ken Bonds

Diana Booher

Phyllis L. Brawley

Lindsey Brock

Gary Brooks

Rena Califf

Anne and Bob Calvert

Carolyn and Jim Clark

James Cooper

Cindy and John Crittenden

Cruisin’ with the Clauses, LLC

Keri Daniels

Terry and Bobby Decker

Janie and Bill Deupree

Ellen Dixon

Beatrix Dohmen

Carla Ellis

Tricia Everest

LuAnn Faulkner-Schneider and John Schneider

Fidelity Charitable

Laci Francel

Full Circle Bookstore

Olivia Gutierrez

H.E. Rainbolt Trust

Kelli Hargis

Mary Ann and Don W. Haskins

Brooke Henderson

William Henson

Justin Herndon

Bette J. and Frank D. Hill

Marc Hille

Dawn Hisey

Laura and Kenneth A. Johnson

Linda Knox

Robert Krueger

Carmen Lemoine

Karen and Robert P. Luke

Linda and Joseph A. McKenzie

Trina Mefford

Hedra and Harry Merson

Evelyn and Phillip Morrison

Michelle Musto

Network for Good

Genny Nicholas

Keith and William H. Oehlert

OK Detrick Foundation

OKC Beautiful

Autumn Parker

JoAnn Pearce

Zachary Pruett

Joy and Roger Quinn

Abbey and Brent Richards

Lynn and John Robberson

Sara Jane Rose

Laura Ross

Brenda Ruiz

Lois Salmeron

Meg Salyer

Lin and Ernesto Sanchez

Rebecca Schiffer

Lee Allan Smith

Marsha and Allan Storjohann

Bridget Tanner

Dorothy and Udho Thadani

Naomi Timmons

Marlo and Jay Turner

Jade and Richard Urash

Tracy Vanderneck

Rose Weaver

Alisa and Jeremy White

Linda K. Whittington

Rainey Williams

Janet and Wiley L. WilliaKathy L. and John

Michael Williams

Anne Workman

Nancy Yoch

Josie Yoder

David R. Zornes

Contributing Members at the Patron Level

Michelle and Gary Brooks

Caroline and Blake Brown

Meghan and Dan Bruner

Jeanie and James Caldwell

Caren and Jim Chrisman

Jane Detrich

Timothy Dodd

Janet Elmore

Michele and Mark Elsaesser

Sarah and David Evans

Lauren and Russ Florence

Sue and John Francis

Kris and Bill Frankfurt

Rachel Franklin

Kimberly Gardea and Mark Vice

Nancy and Barry Grove

Aaliyah Hackshaw

Shani Ortiz Harvey and Luke Harvey

Charles Hughes

Vickie James

Brenda and Larry Johnson

Gerri and Chris Kavanaugh

Jane and John Kenney

Kristin and David Lam

Caroline and John C. Linehan

Rhonda McCuan

Christa and Michael Midkiff

Van Nguyen

Ryan Oliver

Charles Oppenheim

Alyce and Ronald Page

Elia Ramos

Judy and Richard Riggs

Kristen Ruiz Teer and Louis Ruiz

Patricia and Mark Stecklein

Alan Stegall and Austin Klososky

Jay Stratton

Kelley and Jarod Young

In-Kind Gifts

Angry Scotsman

Anthem Brewing Company

Balloon Therapy OKC

Colcord Hotel

Embassy Suites Oklahoma City Northwest

Empire Slice House

Happy Plants OKC

Hideaway Pizza - Downtown Oklahoma City

Hostess Brands

IPGI

Midtown Renaissance

The Mule

The Old Spaghetti Factory

Ozarka Water & Coffee Service

Riversport OKC

Science Museum Oklahoma

Social Order

Stella Nova

Ted’s Cafe Escondido

Topgolf Oklahoma City

Udander

The Myriad Botanical Gardens secures funding through various channels. Since 2011, it has engaged in a Public-Private Partnership with the City of Oklahoma City. The City covers 47% of operating expenses. The Gardens relies on contributions from individuals, corporations, and private foundations and revenue from memberships, programs, admissions, venue rentals, and retail sales to cover the remaining 53% of the operating budget.