ART IN THE GARDENS: YOUR VOICE • “THE LOVE OF GARDENING” • TROPICAL SALAD RECIPE
The A quarterly newsletter from Bok Tower Gardens www.boktowergardens.org
Vol. 1 | Issue 2 | Spring 2009
2 | The Garden Path | Spring 2009 The
FROM THE PRESIDENT Growing numbers of visitors have been enjoying this year’s spectacular spring bloom. At a time when other attractions are struggling, our rise in attendance shows that visitors continue to find a place of relaxation and comfort in the Gardens. They describe feeling uplifted
David Price President
Cassie Jacoby Editor
Martin Corbin Graphic Design
and inspired when they sign our guest registers. Recently, magazine journalist Richard Banks, Florida editor for Southern Living, spent several days touring the Gardens and talking with staff. The random interviews he conducted with our visitors echoed the same sentiment. Yes, after 80 years, visitors still understand what the Gardens is all about. This timeless David Price, President
quality is a testament to Edward Bok’s ability to discern what was meaningful and important to the public. It could be called promotional or advertising acumen: to read the public’s emotion and to give to them what they don’t even know they want. This past season we celebrated the Gardens’ 80th
William De Turk Sandra Dent Jane Hink Duane Hull Steve Jolley Christopher Lutton Cheryl Peterson David Price
Bok, grandson of Edward Bok, and Hon. Patsy Fawsett,
Pirjo Restina
was perfect and Bok Tower Gardens was at its finest. What really made the day was the mood of the crowd. It was as if all the world’s troubles were gone, everyone was in the moment enjoying the place and each other. There were no complaints. Folks were smiling and greeting each other like we were all part of some big family reunion. I believe this day was what Edward Bok envisioned when he created the Gardens. The dream has become a reality in which we can all take pride.
The cover photo is of a Dietes iridioides commonly known as the African Iris. Photo by Martin Corbin
Sign Up Online!
Marjola Burdeshaw
a magical day as drummers assembled the crowd. Derek
and choir sang as doves were released. The weather
speaking at the 80th Anniversary Celebration
Jennifer Beam
Sue Praetzold
who assembled in the oak grove. A youth band played
Hon. Patsy Fawsett, Gardens’ board member
Nick Baker
anniversary with nearly 8,000 visitors in one day. It was
Gardens’ board member, spoke to visitors of all ages
Derek Bok, grandson of Edward Bok and
Editorial Contributors
Visit boktowergardens.org to sign up for monthly updates of what’s new at the Gardens!
www.boktowergardens.org
Lin Norris Renaud Rose Young
Mission Bok Tower Gardens seeks to carry out Edward W. Bok’s founding inspiration: Wherever your lives may be cast, make you the world a bit better or more beautiful because you have lived in it. By preserving and sharing the beauty, environment, architecture, music, art and history while inspiring others to carry on the tradition. Bok Tower Gardens, a nonprofit organization, is supported by tax-exempt gifts and contributions and is sponsored in part by the State of Florida, Department of State, Division of Cultural Affairs, Florida Arts Council and the National Endowment for the Arts. MM/5M/0409
Spring 2009 | The Garden Path | 3
We are excited to announce the following sponsors for Live at the Gardens Summer Music Series:
Helping the Gardens Grow! MEMBERSHIP
Marjola Burdeshaw, Membership & Development Manager
Welcome to all new members, especially those
Your membership keeps the Gardens growing.
who signed up at our 80th anniversary celebration.
You plant your name at one level and it often
We look forward to getting better acquainted and
blossoms into another level of membership. One
meeting you at one or more of our upcoming events.
member recently decided to branch out as a
Did you know that if you upgrade to the Sustainer
sponsor. Whether you’re an individual member
or higher level you are invited to tour the Founder’s
or corporate sponsor, we thank you for your past
Room in the first floor of the Tower? The next
and continuing support. You make our events
member’s Founder’s Room tour and breakfast is
possible.
November 19 prepared by Bob Evans Restaurant in Lake Wales.
• Best Western Admiral’s Inn • Bob Evans Restaurant • Dr. & Mrs. Roy Braunstein • Chalet Suzanne Restaurant and Inn • Crazy Fish Restaurant • Kohl & Co. • Lake Wales Veterinary Hospital • Marion Nelson Funeral Home • Marion T. Yongue / WEDU • Sorensen - Schade Chrysler Dodge Jeep Contact Marjola Burdeshaw at 863.734.1212 or by email at mburdeshaw@boktower.org for information about the many opportunities for you to partner with us.
IN THE MEDIA Extensive public relations campaigns have resulted in national, state and local non-paid editorial coverage, but we need to continue spreading the word. If you have a friend in the media, be sure to suggest they consider doing a feature story on the Gardens. We’ve received coverage in the following major media. • Richard Banks, Florida editor for Southern Living, interviews David Price • Lazelle Jones photographs a new RV for an upcoming cover of Family Motorcoaching Magazine • Horticulture director Nick Baker leads a group of Canadian garden writers through the Gardens
www.boktowergardens.org
4 | The Garden Path | Spring 2009
ART EXHIBITS
“Vignettes in Paint,” an array of watercolors by Atlanta artist Robert Leedy, son of architect Gene Leedy, will be on exhibit in the Visitor Center through May 28. The Winter Haven native’s subject matter covers a large range including landscapes, architectural, still life, figurative work and abstracts all with the common denominator of bold color. Since graduating with a fine arts degree from Valdosta State University in Georgia, Leedy has lived and painted all over the world. His travels have had a profound influence on his unique style characterized by luminous color and fresh, loose washes. Whether painting a Venetian canal, a boatyard in Maine or a coastal scene in Florida, he captures the spirit of the place in various water media. “Transparent watercolor offers a certain level of luminosity in painting that is difficult to achieve in oils and acrylics,” Leedy explains. “The whiteness of the watercolor paper acts as a light source which reflects upwards through subsequent layers of transparent color. As a result, the colors have a glowing effect. It’s kind of like a stained glass window.” Visit www.robertleedyart.com for information on the artist and his
“The Birds, Bees, Flowers and Seas” May 28 – July 30
Discover how plant-animal communities support Florida’s wildlife as illustrator Debra Jane Carey brings to life dynamic images capturing the essence of nature. Through illustrations of her art and prose, Carey showcases Florida’s natural inhabitants as she takes visitors on a journey through the world of pollinators. Viewing the exhibit in the Visitor Center from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. is included with general admission or membership. Most artwork is available for purchase with a portion of the profits benefiting the Gardens.
work. www.boktowergardens.org
Spring 2009 | The Garden Path | 5
Visitor comments about the new abstract sculpture near the Visitor Center have been varied. Those who have taken the time to comment have been passionate about their reaction to the art. This passion runs the spectrum from love to hate. The work is by
Rick Sgrillo
two artists, Kenneth Treister, an architect and sculptor originally from Miami, and Rick Sgrillo, a Lakeland blacksmith. Both Rick and Ken created their works with inspiration from nature. Ken found his inspiration in the lines of a palm frond radiating and intersecting to form curves from straight lines. Rick found inspiration in the sensuous curves and folds of a flower. Both of the artists have donated or loaned
Two nature-inspired sculptures by Lakeland-
the sculptures for display in the
based blacksmith Rick Sgrillo will be on display
Gardens. These pieces are not
behind our Visitor Center throughout the
meant to be taken literally or to
summer. Created in collaboration with Tampa
be understood and explained,
glass artist Susan Gott, the work brings fluidity
but rather experienced. Art is
and life to the hard materials of glass and metal.
wonderful in that it can make us feel emotions and think of
“The oversized plant forms evoke a sense of
different ideas and concepts.
growth and creation, in which the life force of
Sometimes that thought is a
the flower and fruit emerge from within,” Sgrillo
metaphor or an allegorical story.
explains. “Light plays off the glasswork on the sculpture to give a warm and moist fleshiness to
for historical restoration. Featured in both
the movement of the piece.” Originally designed
private and public locations, many of his custom
for a benefit at the Beth Ann Morean Arts Center
architectural design projects incorporate natural
in St. Petersburg, the work has been shown in
forms into his furnishings and architectural
various garden or water settings which blend
ironwork. His metal benches are throughout Bok
and accentuate the natural forms.
Tower Gardens.
Sgrillo, who has been working in metals for nearly 20 years, specializes in adaptive work
Rick Sgrillo: Renaissance Iron 863.815.7755 sgrillo@earthlink.net
Sometimes art teaches us to look at nature in another way in its similarity to, or contrast with nature. These pieces of sculpture do not strike everyone the same way. We invite your comments on this or other topics for inclusion in future issues of The Garden Path. Email submissions to mcorbin@boktower.org
6 | The Garden Path | Spring 2009
There’s always something in bloom at Bok Tower Gardens. The plant
identification display located outside the Visitor Center has cuttings to show you what’s blooming every day with labels identifying both the Latin and
common names. Many of the plants are available for sale in the plant shop.
Both cold-hardy and semi-tropical plants grow here. Our growing conditions are: acid sandy soil, zone 9a of the USDA Plant Hardiness Zone map, annual average rainfall of 52 inches (mainly in the summer), frost about every three Nick Baker, Director of Horticulture
years and light freezes every five years.
Dietes bicolor
Lupinus aridorum
A tropical iris that thrives here in Central Florida, the yellow African iris blooms well for us throughout the summer months and is one of several species of Dietes grown at the Gardens.
Scrub Lupine, both federally and state listed as endangered, is one of the rarest plants in Florida. Found only in scrub habitats along the ridge system in Orange and Polk Counties, there are approximately 1,500 plants in existence in eight locations. Our Conservation Program is working to create a new population on protected land near Auburndale to help prevent its extinction.
Conradina grandiflora
Neomarica caerulea ‘Regina’
Large-flowered False Rosemary is a mint plant endemic to Florida’s east coast, from Volusia south to Dade County. Listed as threatened in Florida, it has aromatic leaves and the largest flowers of all native Florida mints. Although it can bloom yearround, the most abundant blooms are found in early spring.
Another tropical iris introduced from Brazil, this plant produces striking blue flowers from February through August. New plants grow out of the flower stalks. The weight causes the stalks to lean to the ground and take root. Then that new plant repeats the process. In this way the walking iris expands or “walks” outward from the original plant.
www.boktowergardens.org
Spring 2009 | The Garden Path | 7
VOLUNTEER SPOTLIGHT
Lin Norris Renaud, Pinewood Manager The gardens of Bok Tower were truly blessed when Gwen and Ted Odle arrived as volunteers during the winter of 2001. The Odles traveled this country from coast to coast in pursuit of the perfect area in which to spend their year-round leisure time gardening rather than awaiting the arrival of spring in their native state of Missouri.
see the Odles quietly working at Pinewood Estate, the plant nursery, cleaning the many birdbaths throughout the property or anywhere their tender care is needed. As Gwen says, “We volunteer just for fun and the experience of learning.” As Ted and Gwen readily explain, learning to garden in Florida has been an ongoing education with knowledgeable
Nine years after Ted retired as a microbiologist in research, development and manufacturing, the pair happened upon Lake Wales. After visiting Cypress Gardens in Winter Haven,
mentors including John Arnett, Cindy Campbell, David Price, Nick Baker and the entire horticulture staff. Although they appreciate all that grows, Gwen’s favorite
it didn’t take them long to discover Bok Tower Gardens, where
flowers are roses, especially the Tropicana for its wonderful
Ted exclaimed, “They should let me come and volunteer.”
fragrance and beautiful color.
They knew they had finally achieved their dream, and became winter residents.
Gwen and Ted arrive early each day so that they are able to feed the birds and enjoy “different spots. Sometimes it may
After only one season, Ted and Gwen sold their home in
be the surprise of a misty morning view of a lacey spider web
Missouri and became year-round Lake Wales residents and
or just to enjoy nature’s beauty undisturbed.” For them it’s a
volunteers at Bok Tower Gardens.
reminder of fond memories of home where they would sit in
While living in Missouri, the two transformed three of their 11 acres into a spectacular garden with a variety of flower beds and, at times, up to 1,500 daffodils. It wasn’t long before passersby and residents of their town began arriving with
their swing after a day of gardening, or perhaps to watch the sun rise and enjoy the view. It‘s our good fortune to have such dedicated volunteers who work so very hard “just for the love of gardening.”
requests to view this artful creation and pleas to purchase some of the plants. Now, on almost any day, visitors and staff will most likely
www.boktowergardens.org
8 | The Garden Path | Spring 2009
David Price, President
Natural beauty is abundant in Central Florida. Within a 45
Photos by David Price. Taken at Tiger Creek Preserve
minute drive of the Gardens, there are approximately 450,000
of the ages. Florida landscape in its pristine state has a depth and
acres of preserved natural areas that are open to the public.
diversity that is millions of years in the making. To emulate
These lands have a great diversity of plants representing
nature in art or a garden is to search the depths of a timeless
nature’s masterpiece of evolution that extends back 1.3 million
design. It does not go out of vogue. There is certain restfulness
years, much longer than in most of North America’s. Florida
in the parts that have had the ages to settle and harmonize.
was never covered in the last Ice Age and some of our environs
Nothing in nature clashes, the colors are in harmony, the
have changed little in hundreds of thousands of years. Many of
masses are balanced. Its design does not create tension. Nature
these lands have never been cleared for timber or agriculture.
always has more detail than we can see. The more one looks at
They are a symphony of the climate, soil, plant and animal life
it, the more there is to be seen. The restorative effect nature has
that has evolved together. Many rare plants found nowhere
on society should be reason enough to justify the preservation
else in the world grow on these lands. These species are
of pristine natural areas.
important, but it is the assemblage of those plants in their natural habitat that represents the natural order and stability
The work of landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted Jr., like that of his father, relied heavily on inspiration from
www.boktowergardens.org
Spring 2009 | The Garden Path | 9
nature. The late 1800s and the turn of the century
and respected nature, not scientifically as a botanist
saw a rapid diminishing of the natural beauty
does, but for the appeal of nature to the senses.”
of our country. There was a sense of loss of the
Edward Bok and Olmsted shared their vision to
grandeur of what had been taken for granted and
reconnect the natural with the spiritual and the
over-exploited. Their work sought to reflect the
cultural in a garden setting. As a counterpoint to
natural beauty, to be an extension of the natural
the garden on the hill he was creating, Bok wanted
environment.
to preserve a lowland area he called the “Texel
When Olmsted visited Florida he was taken
Jungle.” Texel was the island in Holland on which
aback by the unspoiled beauty that remained
Bok’s grandfather lived. Bok was inspired by the
here. Much like his father, his style of work was
tree planting his grandfather did, and found that
one of regionalism, capturing the sense of place
Tiger Creek Preserve www.nature.org 863.635.7506
At the edge of the Lake Wales Ridge, Tiger Creek Preserve is home to no less than 15 of the state’s rarest species. Trails through the 5,000-acre sanctuary lead you through a variety of habitats.
Circle B Bar Reserve
that comes from the natural habitat, the climate,
www.polk-county.net 863.534.7377
history and agriculture of a region. Olmsted spent
Walk the edge of Lake Hancock and towards the historic Banana Creek marsh system.
countless hours researching sites to understand the components of natural areas. He would crisscross through thickets, forests, swamps, sandhills and creeks, always searching for the highest point, usually a tree. He would hoist his slight five-and-
the forest around Tiger Creek in Babson Park
a-half foot frame to the top to get a comprehensive
reminded him of his childhood wonderment.
view of the place while the rest of his crew watched
Although Bok had Olmsted draw up plans for the
from below. As his inspiration for landscape design,
Texel Jungle preservation, he abandoned the idea
he sought out natural areas such as Highlands
when the state of Florida made plans to build a
Hammock in Sebring and nearby Tiger Creek. He
road through the area. Later, Gardens’ director Ken
set his design on creating a Florida subtropical
Morrison picked up the torch to preserve the Tiger
hammock filled with native live oaks, sabal palms,
Creek and led a successful campaign to preserve
magnolias, ferns and a great diversity of other
500 acres. Today that land is part of the Nature
native flora. His associate William Lyman Phillips,
Conservancy’s 5,000-acre Tiger Creek Preserve
who worked with him at Mountain Lake, wrote:
where trails are open to the public. A map of local
“His solutions were not merely something pulled
Some Preserve Areas Near Bok Tower Gardens
area preserves is available in our Visitor Center and
out of a bag of tricks but grew out of the genius of
online. Some of these unique habitats can be hard to
the place, prepared for a man-earth entity where
find, but the hunt is worth the effort. They are truly
previously there had been only earth. He loved
world treasures.
Catfish Creek Preserve
www.floridastateparks.org 863.696.1112 A beautiful site with wide sandy trails great for birding, hiking and horseback riding.
Lake Kissimmee State Park
www.floridastateparks.org 863.696.1112 This 5,930-acre park offers outstanding activities with 13 miles of beautiful trails.
Wildlife Safari: Avon Park
May 30 from 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. RSVP to Pirjo Restina: phrestina@boktower.org
10 | The Garden Path | Spring 2009
PARTNER PROFILE
Our partnership with Florida’s Natural Growers is deeply rooted in our shared histories. Not long after our dedication in 1929, Florida’s Natural was organized in 1933 by growers Jennifer Beam, Director of Visitor Services & Programs The best way to improve children’s performance in the classroom may be to take them out of it, according to the New York Times. “New research suggests that play and down time may be as important to a child’s academic experience as reading, science and math, and that regular recess, fitness or nature time can influence behavior, concentration and even grades,” reports Tara Parker-Pope, health writer for the New York Times. As part of the movement to get kids out in nature, our education program offers students and teachers the opportunity to explore and discover nature with three field trips. Nature Explorations engages students in a garden hunt and self-guided exploration of nature. Teachers looking for something more can add
who had a personal interest in bringing the best possible citrus products to the market. Today it is one of Florida’s largest citrus cooperatives of growers and the only national brand of orange juice made without any Brazilian oranges. Its membership base of 12 grower associations includes more than 1,000 grower-members who own more than 50,000 acres of citrus groves in Central Florida. One of the original sponsors of our Christmas at Pinewood holiday home tour, Florida’s Natural has a long tradition of providing support for our many events and projects. FNG recently assisted with the re-publication of volunteer Duane Hull’s plant identification guide, “Flowers–Plants–Trees of Bok Tower Gardens.” From corporate sponsorships and donations, to providing the juice served at special events and our Blue Palmetto Café, the relationship has grown throughout the years. “It’s like having an extended family,” explains David Price, Gardens’ president. “Frank Hunt II has served on our board since 1997, and was our chairman while also chairing the board of FNG where he served for more than 50 years. We appreciate the great support we receive from Steve Caruso, FNG CEO, and current board chairman Dick Fort. We’re also fortunate to have Pat DuPont and other FNG employees volunteer numerous hours for our special events.” “I always look for Florida’s Natural juices in my travels around the country,” Price adds. “Seeing their label makes me proud to be from Lake Wales and even more excited about the opportunities to work together in the future.” The FNG Grove House Visitor Center, open October through the end of May, is featuring citrus-themed fine china, paintings and sculpture. Containing more than 400 art objects, most of which are more than 100 years old, the exhibit, “Oranges in Art” will be on display for a year. Visit www.floridasnatural.com for more information about FNG.
a historical tour of Pinewood Estate with a
Tickets available for purchase April 3rd at:
guided field trip for grades 3 and up. And, for some real fun, the Gardens will host our
Bok Tower Gardens & Online, Imperial Symphony Orchestra Office, Lakeland, Citizens Bank & Trust, Chamber of Commerce: Lake Wales, Bartow, Haines City, Lakeland & Winter Haven
annual Earth Day Celebration on April 16 & 17. This event connects students to nature with fun, hands-on activities from environmental organizations throughout Central Florida. For more information about these outdoor opportunities, call 863.676.1408 ext. 2225.
Gates open at 5 p.m. for picnics This year’s theme “Our American Roots”
$12 Members – $15 General Public $20 Day of Concert
Sponsored by AT&T Real Yellow Pages – CSX Max 98.3 FM WWRZ – GrayRobinson The News Chief – WUSF
For more information call 863.734.1222 or visit us online at www.boktowergardens.org
Photo by John Moran
Spring 2009 | The Garden Path | 11
REFLECTIONS OF THE PAST The Singing Tower’s Great Brass Door was created by Samuel Yellin, America’s premier metalworker. The single entrance to the Tower features an imposing teakwood door weighing more than 1,000 pounds that’s overlaid with 30 handcrafted panels in brass repoussé, depicting the Biblical story of creation as found in the Book of Genesis. The panels start with the creation of heaven and earth, and end with the expulsion of Adam and Eve from the Garden of Eden. The golden color is maintained by monthly cleaning and polishing with brass polish. Every three to five years the red border is repainted by hand in a tedious process that takes up to two weeks. Born in Poland, Yellin studied art in Europe and moved to Philadelphia in 1906 where he founded Samuel Yellin, Metalworkers, in 1909. Yellin also designed the hand-wrought iron gates on the north side of the Tower that feature zoomorphic figures, as well as the chandeliers, lamps, candelabra, fireplace fittings and more inside the Founder’s Room. Tours are available for Sustainer Level members.
Edward Bok’s Quest for Great Art Guest Lecture Bok Tower Gardens isn’t the only gift Edward Bok gave America. He also commissioned the nation’s largest and finest glass mural, Dream Garden. Designed in 1916 by Louis C. Tiffany from a painting by Maxfield Parrish, it measures 15 by 49 feet and is made up of 100,000 pieces of hand-blown favrile glass in more than 260 color tones that work together to produce the effect of an oil painting. It took six months and 30 artisans to install the nearly four ton glass mosaic in the headquarters of The Curtis Publishing Company in Philadelphia. That was just one of the challenges that make its history a riveting story. The project was fraught with so many setbacks Bok feared that “some fatal star” hung over his commission. Nearly 80 years later a legal battle threatened its survival. Journalist Anne Whitt will speak on this amazing story April 11 at 2 p.m.
www.boktowergardens.org
12 | The Garden Path | Spring 2009
CONSERVATION
Cheryl Peterson, Conservation Manager
Ants and fire are helping ignite the spark of life in one of the rarest plant species in Florida. Lewton’s Milkwort, Polygala lewtonii, is found only in white sand habitats along the Central
Prescribed fires at intervals of two to five years are required
Florida Ridge system including our Pine Ridge Preserve Trail.
to maintain a healthy sandhill habitat for plant and animal
In 2005, there were only 14 plants. This year, 173 plants were
species found there. Monitoring the naturally occurring
recently counted on the Preserve.
populations is important for this plant’s conservation. Every
A perennial that lives five or more years, Lewton’s Milkwort
year our staff maps the population perimeter by GPS as well
has narrow and succulent leaves, and is easily overlooked
as flagging and counting the number of individuals. The
most of the year. The flowering stems, which are produced
monitoring indicates that the May 2005 prescribed fire has
each February, curve upward, sometimes branch, and produce
helped the species greatly.
a raceme of showy, dark pink flowers. This species is unusual
The continued existence of this species is threatened by the
in that it also produces underground, self-pollinating flowers,
conversion of its habitat to agricultural and residential use,
called ‘cleistogamous’ flowers, on below ground stems.
and by lack of management in areas where it is conserved.
Though very little has been known about this species,
Its dependancy on fire for seed germination illustrates the
biologists at Archbold Biological Station have begun studying
need for protection and management of areas like the Pine
its fire ecology, reproductive biology and seed dispersal
Ridge Preserve for the survival of these rare species. Although
mechanisms. Bok’s conservation team has been assisting
our staff frequently travel throughout Florida to study
their efforts through seed germination experiments. The data
and conserve rare species, it’s especially rewarding to see
reveals that seeds are dispersed by ants and that fire stimulates
successful conservation work being done right in our own
seeds to germinate in the wild. Little to no germination occurs
backyard.
in the greenhouse, seed germinator or in the field without fire. www.boktowergardens.org
Spring 2009 | The Garden Path | 13
Awards & Rec ognition Given to Bok Tower Gardens
“This is as close to heaven as you can be,” Carol Anne Taylor, director of children’s choirs, organist & carillonneur at Cathedral Shrine of the Virgin of Guadalupe in Dallas, says of her experience playing the Singing Tower carillon. Winner of the Ronald Barnes Memorial Scholarship, Taylor recently completed her second of four study sessions. “It’s easy to be inspired here, especially with the opportunity to study with carillonneur William De Turk who’s one of the greatest living masters of the carillon.” For nearly 50 years Barnes was a major force in establishing an American approach to carillon performance, composing and arranging. He influenced many carillonneurs, including Milford Myhre, the Gardens’ carillonneur emeritus, and his extensive archive collection is housed in the Tower’s Anton Brees Carillon Library. His legacy lives on through students like Taylor who describes her introduction to the carillon as “love at first touch.” An avid runner who jogs to the entrance gate each morning to greet employees during
The bride and groom rooms at Bok Tower Gardens will be renovated thanks to proceeds from the first annual Sweetheart Tea and Bridge Party at Pinewood Estate in February. A check for $700 was presented to David Price by Jean Gibson, Anne Stuart,
visits, Taylor calls the Singing Tower carillon one of the finest in the world. “The English
Sharon Harned and Shirley Hopp, Gardens’
bells are unique and give this carillon such warmth and depth. It’s a treasure that must be
volunteers who coordinated the event. Also
preserved and promoted.” As for how well his student is doing, De Turk gives Taylor high
pictured is Marjola Burdeshaw, membership
marks. “She is a joy to work with, and highly talented in both technique and musicianship.
and development manager.
She has a high energy level and drives herself for musicality and perfection.” She will be playing a recital at the annual congress of The Guild of Carillonneurs in North America in June near Philadelphia.
“We have the most dedicated volunteers who constantly surpass our expectations for all they do to support our mission,” explains Price. “The gift of their time and talent will be a gift to all the couples whose weddings will be enhanced by the renovations to the bride and groom rooms.” New paint, carpet, mirrors, chairs and artwork will be purchased with the proceeds from the event. The group hosted the Sweetheart Tea and Bridge Party at Pinewood Estate on February 12 from 1 to 4 p.m. Refreshments included coffee, tea and wine as well as a dessert buffet that was donated by Chef Lo of Millenia Catering. Door prizes included a Bok Tower Gardens membership gift basket.
14 | The Garden Path | Spring 2009
CALENDAR OF EVENTS
April Moonlight Concert
“Going Green” Earth Day Celebration
April 7 at 7:30 p.m.
April 16 – Grades PK - 2 April 17 – Grades 3 - 8
Edward Bok’s Quest For Great Art Lecture: Anne Whitt April 11 at 2 p.m.
83rd Annual Easter Sunrise Service
A Day of Healing Arts
April 25 from 8:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.
April 12 at 7 a.m.
Easter Sunday Concerts April 12 at 1 & 3 p.m.
May Concert Under the Stars
Memorial Day Concerts
April 7 at 7:30 p.m.
Armed Forces Day Concerts
Wildlife Safari: Avon Park
Enjoy an hour long concert performed by carillonneur William De Turk. Experience a unique opportunity to picnic in the Gardens at sunset or purchase a light dinner at the Blue Palmetto Café which will remain open until 7:30 p.m.
Bike MS Citrus Tour
Moonlight Concert
May 2 at 7:30 p.m.
May 16 at 1 & 3 p.m.
May 25 at 1 & 3 p.m.
May 30 from 9 a.m. – 2 p.m.
May 15 & 17
Some events require an additional ticket for entry. Visit us online or call 863.676.1408 for more information The 8th Annual Summer Music Series takes place inside the Visitor Center. The tickets are $15 in advance and $20 the day of the event (if available). Early registration is encouraged. An optional prepaid dinner will be served at the Blue Palmetto Café at 5:45 p.m. Dinners are $17, members $15.50. Contact Pirjo Restina for more information: phrestina@boktower.org
Rod MacDonald
Saturday, June 27 at 7:30 p.m.
Photo by Collin Towers
Timeless ballads and modern folk songs with acoustic guitar, harmonica and vocals.
April 25 from 8:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. Help refresh your spirit, reduce stress, stretch, tone and relax; improve memory, flexibility and breathing ; discover natural remedies for good health; walk the contemplative gardens; enjoy a healthy lunch; keynote presentation by D’nesh Mader: “Ayurveda: The Mother Of Healing.” Concurrent sessions include Tai Chi, Yoga, Massage Therapy, Reiki, QiGong, Laughter Yoga, Living Foods and more. RSVP to Pirjo Restina: phrestina@boktower.org
Broadway & JAZZ
Saturday, May 30 at 7:30 p.m.
Victoria de Lissovoy and Rebecca Renfroe kick off our Summer Music Series!
Good Times Jazz Band
Saturday, July 25 at 7:30 p.m. Dixieland music
The Repeatles
Saturday, August 22 at 7:30 p.m.
Elvis impersonator Dwight Isenhower and The Repeatles bring back nostalgic 50s and 60s music.
Mustang Sally & the Hamjos Friday, September 11 at 7:30 p.m. Folk & Traditional music
Spring 2009 | The Garden Path | 15
WHAT’ S NEW
Stop by our Facebook and Twitter pages for
updates on what’s happening in the Gardens. By following us on these new social media outlets you can interact with our staff, ask
questions, post photos and videos as well as learn about special offers at the Gardens.
Twitter: twitter.com/EdwardWBok Facebook: Search “Bok Tower Gardens”
The New www.boktowergardens.org We’re proud to announce the launch of the new boktowergardens.org. Designed by CNP_Studio in Winter Haven, it has a clean, professional look that’s easy to navigate with stunning photography and informative content. Loaded with
optimized keywords that will help drive internet traffic and achieve a greater worldwide presence, it also connects to Twitter and Flickr. The interactive
capabilities allow you to donate, renew your membership, RSVP for events and sign up to volunteer without leaving home. Users can fill out a simple form and even pay by credit card online. Please visit us online soon and send any comments or suggestions to mcorbin@boktower.org
The Blue Palmetto Café’s Tropical Salad
1 handful of mixed greens
4 strips of turkey-1 oz. each
4 wedges of Granny Smith apple 2 oz. Mandarin oranges
1 large strawberry, sliced 1 oz. sweetened pecans
1 oz. crumbled Gorgonzola cheese Served with
2 oz. Honey Lime dressing
Sizzling Summer Specials It’ll be a lot easier to escape the summertime blues with the “Sizzling Summer
Specials” we’re offering. Our Florida Resident Special will begin a month earlier
this year on May 1. Show your Florida ID to receive $2 off through September 30. Ride your motorcycle with a friend to receive the “Bike to Bok” buy one/get one free admission June 1 through September 30. In addition to $5 off membership,
special offers will give Polk County public service employees, church groups and teachers free admission for up to four adults. Contact Lisa Allen at 863-676-1408
or lallen@boktower.org for details. The summer specials cannot be combined with the annual “AAA Show Your Card and Save” 20% discount.
Sign Up Online!
Visit boktowergardens.org to sign up for monthly updates of what’s new at the Gardens! If you’d like to submit a recipe to The Garden Path newsletter for consideration, please email mcorbin@boktower.org www.boktowergardens.org
2009
BOARD OF DIRECTORS CHAIR
Robin Gibson, Senior Partner
Gibson & Valenti PA – Lake Wales, FL
1151 Tower Boulevard • Lake Wales, FL 33853
VICE CHAIR
William G. Burns Lake Wales, FL
TREASURER
Hon. Patricia C. Fawsett, Chief Judge Emeritus U.S. District Court – Orlando, FL
SECRETARY
Frank M. Hunt II, Chairman of the Board Hunt Bros. Cooperative – Lake Wales, FL
BOARD MEMBERS
INSPIRED VISITOR
Louise B. Adams Lake Wales, FL
Cindy Alexander, Community Volunteer Lake Wales, FL
Michael Aloian, President
Charlotte State Bank Trust Department – Tampa, FL
Tomas J. Bok, Ph.D.
GMO LLC – Somerville, MA
J. F. Bryan IV
The Bryan Group – Jacksonville, FL
Nancy J. Davis, President and CEO
McArthur Management Company – Miami, FL
Derek Dunn-Rankin, President
Sun Coast Media Group, Inc. – Charlotte Harbor, FL
Sen. Bob Graham
United States Senator – Miami, FL
M. Lewis Hall, Jr., Partner/Attorney Hall & Hedrick – Coral Gables, FL
L. Evans Hubbard, Chairman of the Board A. Friends’ Foundation Trust – Orlando, FL
Dorothy Chao Jenkins, Community Volunteer Lakeland, FL
Arva Moore Parks, President
Arva Parks & Company – Miami, FL
Inspired visitor Julianne Vanden Wyngaard has spent several months researching and performing on the Singing Tower carillon. “It has such a rich heritage and the utmost respect of all carillonneurs,” comments the professor of music from Grand Valley State University in Grand Rapids, Michigan. “It’s a privilege and honor to play this historic instrument and experience the idyllic atmosphere of the Gardens.” Wyngaard, who teaches and performs on two carillons as well as manages two
summer concert series, is using the Anton Brees Carillon Library to research the lyrics of folk music arranged for carillon. “This library houses an unequaled collection of scores and reference materials that support and encourage research and exploration. Understanding the context of this music will enhance the interpretations by carillonneurs worldwide. It’s been my extreme pleasure to have been on the ‘inside’ of Bok Tower Gardens and I look forward to future visits.”
Dick Wood, President
Mountain Lake Corporation – Lake Wales, FL
EMERITUS MEMBERS J. Shepard Bryan Jr., Attorney
Holland & Knight LLP – Atlantic Beach, FL
John Germany, Attorney
Holland & Knight LLP – Tampa, FL
D. Burke Kibler III, Partner/Chairman Emeritus Holland & Knight LLP – Lakeland, FL
Joan Wellhouse Newton, Chairman Emeritus Regency Centers Corporation – Jacksonville, FL
www.boktowergardens.org
Congratulations to the award winners at the 2009 Volunteer Banquet!