Vibrante - The Member Magazine of the San Antonio Botanical Garden (January - April 2024)

Then & Now

LETTER FROM THE CEO

As we embrace the new year, I am excited to continue our journey of growth at the San Antonio Botanical Garden. More than just a collection of plants, the Garden is a sanctuary of family, fun, and beauty, inviting you to discover your joy in nature.

The importance of public gardens like ours has become increasingly significant in today’s world, where nature, education, and conservation are essential for community enrichment. After witnessing several years of extraordinary weather events, our focus on waterwise plantings and water-saving gardening has become a cornerstone of our mission. It’s a privilege to watch the Garden evolve into a leading source of water conservation knowledge for our community and to be a part of that journey.

Our commitment to conservation, particularly evident in the WaterSaver Community and Rare and Endangered Collection, sets us apart from other public gardens. We’re proud to cultivate over 90 rare and endangered species, more than any other public garden in the state, reflecting our commitment to biodiversity and ecological preservation.

In 2024, a landmark year awaits us with several groundbreaking developments. This May, prepare for the world premiere of Huntopia: Bunnies, Birds & Butterflies, Hunt Slonem’s first large-scale outdoor sculpture exhibition. Birds, bunnies, and butterflies will create an immersive, vibrant fusion of art and nature. We’re also enhancing accessibility with the launch of the Shuttle Access Program, the only of its

kind in the city, allowing more visitors to experience the Garden’s beauty.

As we recall the early years of the Garden, as pictured on the front cover, we recognize the success that resulted from the GROW campaign expansion and look to future growth. We will embark on a ten-month journey developing a new master plan with renowned firm Reed Hilderbrand Landscape Architects. Significant renovations are also on the horizon, starting with the restoration of the Lucile Halsell Conservatory.

In 2023, we welcomed over 20,000 students, a number we expect to surpass in 2024, especially from Title I Schools. This reflects our essential role in educating future generations about the importance of nature and conservation.

Our membership community has grown remarkably, now exceeding 12,000 households. Your support is a testament to the trust and love you have for the Garden.

As we enter our 44th year, our impact in the community has never been greater, with over 400,000 visitors last year. Your continued support fuels our mission, and together, we will ensure that the San Antonio Botanical Garden remains a haven of beauty, learning, and conservation for many more years to come.

With heartfelt gratitude,

| Interim Chief Executive Officer |

IN THIS ISSUE

4 What’s Happening

10 Huntopia: Bunnies, Birds & Butterflies

A glimpse into the world of Hunt Slonem and his upcoming world premiere exhibition

16 Dr. Ying Doon Moy

By Andrew Labay

Discover the remarkable journey of Dr. Ying Doon Moy, whose expertise in plant genetics revolutionized the San Antonio Botanical Garden

20 Growing the Garden with Volunteerism

By Chloe Blumenberg

Read the reasons our volunteers dedicate their time to the Garden

22 An Enduring Commitment

By Katie Erickson

A timeline of community access at the Garden

24 Revitalizing Tradition

Read about the newly restored azumaya in the beloved Kumamoto En

26 Litchke’s Leave

Interview by Ashley Colwell

Saying goodbye to a long time Garden team member

30 Sowing the Future

By Michael Eason

Journey with Michael Eason into the world of seed banks, the meticulous process of seed collection and storage, and the critical role of seed banks in global plant conservation efforts

34 Member Highligh t:

T he Van Es Family

Elky Van Es recalls some of her fondest memories raising her daughter in the Garden

36 Donor Recognition

38 Donors & Perennials

WHAT'S HAPPENING

FAMILY & YOUTH

FAMILY EVENTS

Enjoy the Garden’s family-friendly events that offer guests a chance to explore a botanical theme at activity stations with Garden educators!

Celebrate Orchids! | Saturday, February 3 | 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Family Flashlight Night | Friday, February 23 | 6 – 8:30 p.m.

Celebrate Spring! | Saturday, March 9 | 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Viva Botanica | Saturday, April 20 | 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.

EARLY CHILDHOOD PROGRAMS

From March through mid-November, parents and caregivers are invited to learn and grow alongside their little ones during the Garden’s weekly Early Childhood experiences: Little Sprouts Hike (Tuesdays, 10 – 10:30 a.m.), Nature Exploration in the Family Adventure Garden (Wednesdays, 10 – 10:30 a.m.), & Storytime in the Garden (Thursdays, 10 – 10:30 a.m.). Little Sprouts Hike is sponsored by the Howard Family in honor of family and friends.

FAMILY NIGHT & MORNING HIKES

Discover the Garden’s creatures and plants at night and in the morning during these guided Family Hikes! Family Night Hikes are generously sponsored by RBFCU.

VISITING HOURS

JANUARY – FEBRUARY

9 a.m. - 5 p.m. | Daily

MARCH – APRIL

8 a.m. - 7 p.m. | Daily

8 a.m. – 9 p.m. | Wednesdays

FAMILY GARDENING WORKSHOPS

BUILD A BUG HOTEL

Saturday, January 27 | 11 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.

Create a bug hotel for your backyard critters and enjoy a walk around the Garden to see where our bugs make their homes.

TERRARIUMS

Saturday, February 24 | 11 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.

Discover the art of terrarium building through hands on creation and a walk through the Lucile Halsell Conservatory to view our incredible orchid display.

POCKET PRAIRIE

Saturday, March 30 | 11 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.

Pocket prairies provide rest stops for migrating pollinators to refuel along their journey. Design your own pocket prairie to help pollinators!

FAMILY ART WORKSHOPS

PHOTOGRAPHY

Saturday, February 17 | 11 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.

Capture the Garden through the art of photography with help from education staff!

NATURE JOURNALING

Saturday, March 2 | 11 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.

Participants will assemble a journal to take on a guided hike through the Garden with stops to explore, create art, and document observations.

SUNPRINTS

Saturday, April 6 | 11 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.

Harness the power of the sun by creating one-of-a-kind cyanotypes using natural objects found around the Garden.

WISH: WATER LANTERNS IN THE GARDEN

Friday, January 12 | 6 – 8:30 p.m.

Inspired by traditional Japanese floating and hung lanterns, Wish: Water Lanterns in the Garden brings together people of all ages to be inspired by the beauty of nature and to make a wish of hope, healing, love, and happiness. Come experience the lights of the water lanterns as they cast off into one of the Garden’s iconic ponds.

Wish: Water Lanterns in the Garden will feature live music and luminaria lit pathways. Food and beverages will be available for purchase. Individual ticket includes one lantern.

ARTS & CULTURE

CONSTELLATIONS

BY SOLI CHAMBER ENSEMBLE

Monday, February 5 | 7 p.m.

The San Antonio Botanical Garden is honored to partner with SOLI Chamber Ensemble to produce their 2023 – 2024 season live in an outdoor natural setting. Enjoy a journey through a brilliant array of musical textures, colors, and ideas.

Thursday, February 8 | 6 – 7:30 p.m.

This botanical art class will teach how to press flowers, create homemade cards, and how to build a flower press to take home.

PRESSED FLOWER VALENTINE INTRODUCTION TO IKEBANA WITH ORCHIDS

Thursday, February 22 | 5:30 – 7 p.m.

Learn the fundamentals of Ikebana, the centuries-old Japanese art of flower arranging. Participants will receive everything they need to make their own arrangement and take it home.

AGARITA + PABLO S Á INZ VILLEGAS

Saturday, February 24 | 7:30 p.m.

Back by popular demand, internationally acclaimed solo guitarist Pablo Villegas returns to San Antonio for an evening at the San Antonio Botanical Garden filled with South American flare. In addition to works by Astor Piazzolla, Heitor Villa-Lobos and more, the program features a commissioned work by composer Laura Vega. Pablo’s appearance is generously sponsored by Terra Nova Violins.

FORAGING FOR ARRANGEMENTS

Wednesday, March 13 | 5:30 – 7 p.m.

Embark upon a guided botanical journey foraging through the Garden. Learn how to make beautiful flower arrangements using the plants in your surroundings.

INTRO TO BOTANICAL DYEING

Thursday, March 21 | 6 – 7:30 p.m.

Create one-of-a-kind colors on fabric using natural dyes made from flowers, leaves, and bark. Learn about the basics of selecting and preparing fibers, using mordants, dyeing techniques, and aftercare. Participants will dye their own San Antonio Botanical Garden bandana.

BONSAI WITH TEXAS NATIVE PLANTS

Saturday, March 23 | 2 – 4:30 p.m.

Explore the history of Bonsai and the traditional techniques used to create bonsai.

CUPIDS & COCKTAILS

Friday, February 9 | 7 – 10 p.m.

Enjoy the oasis of the Garden for a night with your sweetheart and friends. Enjoy dancing, cocktails, and sounds of all genres. This adult-only Valentine Party will feature the love in the air at our Betty Kelso Center.

TICKET PRICING

Single Ticket $25 PER PERSON

• Ticket pricing includes one signature drink

• Individual pricing only (no member or group pricing available)

CONSERVATION & GARDENING

GARDENING WORKSHOPS

GROUND COVER BASICS

Wednesday, January 10 | 10 a.m. – 12 p.m.

Learn how ground covers can be used as an alternative to lawns and an important element in your home landscape.

MAKING SPACE FOR SPIDERS

Friday, February 9 | 10 a.m. – 12 p.m.

Discover the spiders in our area, which ones to avoid, and why they matter for landscapes. Learn what makes spiders spectacular and welcome guests in the Garden.

SUCCULENT BASICS

Sunday, February 11 | 1 – 2:30 p.m.

Learn the art of caring for succulents, whether they’re inside or outside. Learn how to keep them healthy and how to propagate these versatile plants.

EARTH-KIND® ROSES

Wednesday, February 14 | 10 a.m. – 12 p.m.

Interested in growing roses? Learn all about Earth-Kind® Roses and why you should consider adding them to your garden.

FORAGING FOR NATIVE EDIBLE PLANTS + BOOK SIGNING

Saturday, March 2 | 9 a.m. – 12 p.m.

Join the authors of Foraging Texas: Finding, Identifying, and Preparing Wild Edibles in Texas for an introduction to foraging wild edible plants!

PROTECTING VEGGIES FROM PESTS

Friday, March 8 | 10 a.m. – 12 p.m.

Spring has sprung and so have the bugs who love spring veggies. Learn how to manage pesky bugs in your own garden, so you can enjoy more of the fruits and veggies.

GROWING TROPICAL PLANTS

INDOORS

Sunday, April 14 | 1 – 2:30 p.m.

Discover the captivating world of tropical plants and how to nurture them within the cozy confines of your home.

PLANTING FOR BUTTERFLIES

Friday, April 26 | 10 a.m. – 12 p.m.

Learn about butterfly biology, identification, and how to attract them to your garden!

CONSERVATION CLASSES

BASIC NATIVE PLANT ID

Thursday, January 11 | 1 – 3 p.m.

An introduction to conservation and plant identification. During this class, we will discuss plant species in Texas and rare plants grown at the Garden.

PLANT PROPAGATION BASICS

Thursday, February 15 | 1 – 3 p.m.

In this class, we will talk about how to care for and keep a plant collection. Participants will learn methods of collecting, cleaning, and sowing plant material.

POLLINATOR PATCHES & POCKET PRAIRIES

Saturday, January 20 | 10 – 11:30 a.m.

Learn how to create a pollinator patch or pocket prairie that can help our local native flora and fauna while helping you conserve water.

WINTER TREE ID WORKSHOP

Thursday, January 25 | 1 – 3 p.m.

During winter, trees don’t always have leaves, making it difficult to identify them. Learn how to identify trees by observing tree buds, bark, and more.

NEFARIOUS NATIVES: THE DARK SIDE OF FLORA

Saturday, January 27 | 1 – 2:30 p.m.

Dive into the world of native Texas plants that may contain hidden dangers. Learn to identify, understand, and safely coexist with these potentially harmful plants in our region.

NEW TO GARDENING IN SAN ANTONIO?

Tuesday, January 30 | 1 – 2:30 p.m.

Whether you’re new to San Antonio or new to gardening, this workshop will help you create beautiful landscapes that save water.

FLORA OF THE EDWARDS PLATEAU

Saturday, March 30 | 9 a.m. – 12 p.m.

Embark on an exploration of the rich botanical diversity of the Edwards Plateau. This workshop will explore the common and rare plants of the Edwards Plateau, providing insights into the ecological adaption, conservation efforts and the biogeography of these plants.

FLORA OF THE BLACKLAND PRAIRIE

Saturday, April 6 | 9 a.m. – 12 p.m.

Learn about the vibrant ecosystem of Blackland Prairie in the conservation focused workshop, where participants will explore the biodiversity of flora found in the highly fertile ecosystem of the deep, black soils of the prairie.

LIVE IN THE GARDEN

Select Dates to be Announced

Enjoy local and national live entertainment at the Garden. Featuring sounds of all genres. Food and beverages available for purchase. Some shows will feature markets supporting local small businesses, lawn games, and more.

TICKET PRICING

Pricing to come and varies by Artist

CULINARY

HOUSE OF THE RISING DOUGH: FOCACCIA BREAD

Saturday, January 6 | 12 – 1:30 p.m.

Time to roll up your sleeves and make bread!

CREATIVE COCKTAILS: WARM CHOCOLATE SPICED BITTERS

Wednesday, January 10 | 6:30 – 7:30 p.m.

Join us in the culinary garden to make a Creative Cocktail from garden botanicals, roots, bark, herbs, and more. Harvest from the garden and enjoy light bites and your creation.

LITTLE FRENCH KITCHEN: ROCHERS COCO

Saturday, February 3 | 12 – 1:30 p.m.

Learn to make chocolate coconut macaroons!

CUCINA ITALIANA: BAKED ZITI

Saturday, February 24 | 12 – 1:30 p.m.

Enjoy la dolce vita while learning one of Italy’s signature dishes. Come cook with us in the Garden!

RAISING THE BAR: CHINESE FIVE SPICE ON ICE

Wednesday, March 6 | 6:30 – 7:30 p.m.

Raising the Bar series is all about learning to make new ingredients to add to your home bar! Enjoy a cocktail with us and take home your creation.

SECRET GARDEN: MOTHER SAUCES

Saturday, March 16 | 12 – 1:30 p.m.

In our Secret Garden series expect to learn culinary secrets. We will harvest and cook with fresh garden ingredients and prepare items from scratch such as mother sauces!

FOODIE CINEMA

Calling all foodies who enjoy film! Enjoy a movie indoors, with a cocktail and several delicious, themed food items prepared by our Garden Chef. Sponsored by Kroger.

Knives Out (2019) | Friday, January 26 | 7 – 9 p.m.

Stalker (2022) | Friday, February 9 | 7 – 9 p.m.

DATE NIGHT

Bring your partner out for a fun and romantic date night with cooking in the garden. Experience a special hands-on cooking class with our Chef and a themed cocktail while you enjoy the beauty of the Culinary Garden! On cold nights classes will take place indoors.

Warm & Cozy | Friday, January 19 | 7 – 9 p.m.

Garden of Love | Wednesday, February 14 | 6:30 – 8 p.m.

LUSH: TWILIGHT IN THE GARDEN

March, May, June, November | 7 – 10 p.m.

Enjoy extended hours, live music, entertainment, and beautiful bloom displays as the Sun sets. Each LUSH event welcomes a playful new theme, and guests 21+ receive a complimentary cocktail to get in the spirit. Additional food and beverages will be available for purchase. Some nights feature a market supporting local small businesses.

TICKET PRICING

Adults $30 ($20 member) Children (3-13) $13 ($10 member)

Children (0-3) Free VIP (Reserved for2 Guests) $75

LUSH SEASON PASS 2024 $80 ($60 member)

The season pass is good for one ticket holder for the year, ID must match the ticket holder’s registration information. Lush Season Pass Includes admission to all LUSH dates.

MEMBER ONLY

Events & Classes

PICTURES WITH THE EASTER BUNNY

Saturday, March 2 | 8 a.m. – 12 p.m.

Hop on over to the Garden for pictures with the Easter Bunny! This event will utilize timed ticketing. Arrive 5 minutes prior to your ticket time.

SPRING FAMILY PORTRAITS

Saturday, March 2 | 3 – 6 p.m.

Saturday, March 16 | 8 a.m. – 12 p.m.

Sign up for a professional photography session with the spring blooms of the Garden as a backdrop.

Education, School Tours, and Access Programs generously provided by Kronkosky Charitable Foundation, Elma Dill Russell Spencer Foundation, Jeanie Rabke Wyatt Family Foundation, San Antonio Water System, Valero, The TND Family Foundation, The Greehey Family Foundation, H-E-B, Anonymous, Navistar, Inc,, Tres Grace Family Foundation, University Health System, Joan Cheever and Dennis Quinn, Lowe Foundation, V.H. McNutt Memorial Foundation, Inc., The Harvey E. Najim Charitable Foundation, Martha Mares Lebo Children’s Education Fund of the San Antonio Area Foundation, Lou Celia and Don Frost, Toyota Motor Manufacturing Texas, Molly and Michael Amini, Faye L. and William L. Cowden Charitable Foundation, the Howard Family, Kroger Delivery, Randolph Brooks Federal Credit Union, and Wells Fargo Foundation.

Join us for a timeless journey of botanical exploration and the discovery of new species. Visit the Lucile Halsell Conservatory for our 5th Annual Orchid Exhibit: Exploration. Step into a lush, tropical world where exquisite displays await. The exhibition blends natural elements with historical charm and explores the evolving tale of plant conservation. This is more than a visit; it’s a mid-winter voyage to tropical wonder.

COMING MAY 2024, San Antonio Botanical Garden and The Mays Family Foundation will present the world-premiere of art world luminary Hunt Slonem’s visionary sculpture exhibition Huntopia: Bunnies, Birds & Butterflies This highly anticipated major outdoor sculpture exhibition, a lifelong dream of the famed New York artist known for painting his fantastical animal and spiritual realm muses, was over four years in the making and produced by an international assembly of artists and craftspeople and art studios in New York City and Seattle. Slonem’s singular vision to create an immersive, vibrant art experience centered on its connection to nature. The abundance of the natural realm has long informed and inspired Slonem in his daily painting practice and shaped the direction for his debut garden exhibition.

Hunt Slonem, born in 1951 in Kittery, Maine, an artist known for his distinctive neo-expressionist painted gestures and continual meditation on his deep connection to the natural and spiritual realms, has resulted in a distinguished career spanning over fifty years, with works in major art collections and museums worldwide.

Huntopia marks a pivotal moment in Slonem’s career, translating the art luminary’s richly painted canvases into large outdoor sculptures in the natural world for the first time. The exhibition’s debut celebrates Slonem’s lifelong dream to create an immersive and grand outdoor sculpture experience and was years in the making.

With the outside world temporarily paused by the Covid-19 pandemic, Slonem was afforded a rare moment of quiet in early 2020 to pivot to new ways of approaching his work. Free from professional obligations and social constraints during this window of time, Slonem first experimented with glass. The seminal genesis for Huntopia was begun with a blown glass bunny sculpture made at his Seattle glassblowing studio. Inspired by the sculptural glass manifestations of his beloved bunny muses, Slonem’s vision for an entirely new body of work quickly grew into an expansive new era of creativity. New series emerged in bronze, works produced with neon and steel and mosaic glass in an ever-expanding pursuit of

meditating on favorite subjects in a new context. The resulting artworks that comprise Huntopia are a joyful, glittering array of sculptures and installations produced with an impressive range of media and artisan applications, including works featuring tens of thousands of handcut, hand-applied, pieces of glass.

The artist’s iconic animal muses are made manifest in colorful eruptions of sculptural play throughout the garden, taking visitors on a whimsical journey that evokes the wonder and reverence for nature that inspires the artist in his daily painting practice.

Hunt Slonem’s artistic journey began at an early age, fueled by an innate and deeply-felt connection and love for nature and its unending colors and magical, mysterious forms. With his father being a Navy officer, the family moved often, resulting in many formative experiences in far flung locales that fostered a lifelong reverence for the natural world. Slonem continued to seek out travel opportunities as a young adult. Experiences studying abroad in Nicaragua and Mexico imbued

him with an appreciation for tropical landscapes that would further influence his various forms of artistic expression.

Slonem studied painting at Skowhegan School of Painting and Sculpture in Madison, Maine and graduated with a degree in painting and art history from Tulane University in New Orleans, Louisiana. Slonem spent several years in the early 1970s living in Manhattan and teaching painting to seniors. When he was offered the use of a studio for the summer of 1975, Slonem was able to fully immerse himself in his work. His pieces began getting exhibited around New York, propelling his reputation, and thrusting him into the city’s contemporary arts scene, where he has remained a mainstay throughout his storied 50+ year career.

Inspired by the mythological symbolism of animals, Slonem has become best known for his series of bunnies, butterflies, and tropical birds. These creatures, with their radiant colors and enigmatic presence, serve as a recurring motif in the artist’s work, each meticulously rendered with a touch of whimsy and surrealism.

Slonem’s technique involves layering and repetition, creating a sense of depth and texture within his works. His bold use of color evokes a dreamlike quality that embraces the ephemeral beauty of nature. Repetitive imagery adds a meditative aspect to his work, inviting viewers to immerse themselves in the intricacies of each piece.

“Botanical gardens fascinate me. Nature is just embedded in my soul. I’m thrilled to have the lush canvas of a garden to mix my art in with. It’s a project that I’ve wanted to do forever. This is the first time I’ve been able to produce work to fulfill the dream.”

The fascination with nature extends to Slonem’s depictions of vibrant florals, where he infuses his distinctive style into rendering these botanical wonders. Much like his approach to birds and animals, Slonem’s work often hints at the rich tapestry of symbolism. Whether through the choice of specific flower varieties or their arrangement, there is a sense of reverence and spiritual connection.

Central to Slonem’s artistic practice is his studio, a space that reflects the artist’s creative energy. Filled with an eclectic array of objects, antique furniture, and, of course, his vibrant artworks, the studio serves as a physical manifestation of his artistic philosophy. Slonem’s studio is not merely a workspace; it is a sanctuary where creativity and spirituality intertwine. An essential aspect of this sanctuary is Slonem’s beloved pet birds. Having always had a strong connection to the subjects represented in his work, his fascination for the feathered creatures began as child while living in Hawaii. Further deepened during his time in Central America, he was inspired by the people’s devotion and spiritual fervor. Continuing into adulthood, he not only admired the colorful animals from afar but began bringing them home to reside with him in New York. Now his constant companions, they flitter and chat around the studio as Slonem captures their presence on canvas with rhythmic repetition.

The artist’s daily routine is itself a ritualistic practice. Known for his disciplined approach to work, Slonem follows a strict schedule, often beginning his day with a period of prayer and meditation. This ritualistic approach, combined with the repetitive nature of his artistic process, creates a sense of devotion and transcendence that permeates his art.

PRESENTED BY Mays Family Foundation

MAJOR SUPPORT PROVIDED BY John R. and Greli N. Less Charitable Trust

ADDITIONAL SUPPORT PROVIDED BY Dacia and Lanham Napier

Dickson-Allen Foundation

Russell Hill Rogers Fund for the Arts

Gretchen Swanson Family Foundation

Suzanne and Dick Wade

William Knox Holt Foundation

Susan and Larry Todd

Dr. Moy with satsumas in his home garden

DR. YING DOON MOY

By Andrew Labay, Director of Horticulture

Discover the remarkable journey of Dr. Ying Doon Moy, whose expertise in plant genetics revolutionized the San Antonio Botanical Garden with extraordinary fruits and flowers, leaving a lasting legacy in horticulture.

Hedychium ‘Dr. Moy’

Twenty-pound papaya fruit, hibiscus flowers the size of dinner plates, cold-hardy citrus, Dr. Ying Doon Moy had a substantial impact on the San Antonio Botanical Garden (SABG), from the plants that we associate with the Garden to the influence he had on the many people he interacted with throughout the 1980’s and 1990’s. Humble, unassuming, precious, and brilliant are words frequently used to describe Dr. Moy. “He was an excellent teacher and along with Paul Cox, inspired me to pursue plant breeding as my career when I spent time at the garden as a teenager,” says Dr. Kevin Crosby, associate professor and plant breeder with Texas A&M University.

Dr. Moy was already a distinguished plant geneticist before emigrating from China in the late 1970’s, having worked on tropical fruit crops, including the development of seedless watermelon as associate professor at the South China Agriculture University in Canton. During the Cultural Revolution in China, Dr. Moy endured the loss of his professional title, persecution and forced hard labor. Through a sponsorship from the Rockefeller Foundation, he, his wife, and two sons were able to emigrate to the United States where he first lived in Chicago before relocating to San Antonio, a warmer climate similar to Canton.

Corning continues to describe his patient approach to horticultural:

I stayed in the field with pineapple for 36 hours, he recalls. I wanted to find out when the pineapple flower opens. It opens at night!

Humble, unassuming, precious, and brilliant are words frequently used to describe Dr. Moy.

In San Antonio, the gardens flourished under the patient care of Dr. Moy. He grew a profusion of ornamental and edible tropical plants including fragrant gingers (Hedychium sp.), roses and hibiscus. His hibiscus, like the papaya, would become a signature plant at SABG. One cross in particular between Hibiscus grandiflorus and Hibiscus moscheutos produced a seedling with a spectacularly large, 12-inch diameter bloom. These Texas-sized hibiscus blooms stood out to Greg Grant (Horticulture Extension Agent with Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service) who showed them to Dr. Parsons. They would name it ‘Moy Grande’ hibiscus and promoted it as “the largest open face flower in the world.” The bold beauty and popularity of the ‘Moy Grande’ led it to become the iconic symbol of the San Antonio Botanical Garden.

Upon arriving in San Antonio in 1980 he took the job as gardener and preferred to be called Mr. Moy instead of Dr. Moy. As described by Dr. Jerry Parsons, retired horticulture specialist with Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service, everyone began to notice how the plants in Dr. Moy’s assigned garden area (Formal and Old Fashioned Gardens) looked so much healthier than other areas, and how the papaya began to produce larger fruit and ripen within a single season. Dr. Moy’s professional background was eventually revealed, and it was discovered that he had been crossing papaya and selecting for fruit size and quality. In time he developed papaya varieties that would produce a single 20 pound fruit and consequently ignited a fevered popularity for growing papaya in San Antonio.

Dr. Moy spent the majority of his career working with fruit and vegetable crops to increase quality and yield. He would explain that his goal was to increase fruit size to “feed the people.” He was skilled in observing and understanding how plants grow and develop. For an article in the San Antonio Express News in 1986, by Blair Corning, Dr. Moy discussed his approach:

The first thing I do is watch, he explains. Then I sit and think. I notice even the smallest changes in the many different phases of plants and trees.

Toward the end of his career with SABG, Dr. Moy and Dr. Parsons were also focused on cold hardy citrus for San Antonio. Trials had been established testing the hardiness of satsuma varieties such as

Dr. Moy with ‘Mucho Mas Moy Grande’ in the Old Fashioned Garden

‘Seto’ and ‘Miho.’ The tangerine variety ‘Changsha’ had also shown to have good winter hardiness though it is heavily seeded. Dr. Parsons suggested to Dr. Moy to cross ‘Changsha’ with ‘Miho’ and ‘Seto.’ The result was a number of high quality, low-seed satsumas including ‘Arctic Frost,’ ‘Orange Frost,’ and ‘Bumper,’ varieties that continue to dominate the market.

In his nearly 20 years of work at the Garden he developed over 150 new varieties including new hybrid papaya, ornamental ginger, roses, hibiscus, pomegranate, and citrus. He retired in 1999 as Research Director and received honors, including the Imagineer Award, Mayor’s Award, City Star Employee Award, and Honorable Mention Award from the Garden Club of America.

I would like to kindly thank the following individuals who assisted with this article or have publications used as references: Candace Andrews, David Rodriguez, Greg Grant, Dr. Kevin Crosby, Dr. Jerry Parsons. We would also like to thank Dr. Jerry Parsons for the use of his images.

DO YOU HAVE DR. MOY VARIETIES THAT YOU WOULD BE ABLE TO DONATE TO THE SAN ANTONIO BOTANICAL GARDEN? We are looking to build our collections and are looking for any plant that to your knowledge is a Dr. Moy variety. For donation please contact Andrew Labay via email at alabay@sabot.org

RECOMMENDED READING FOR REFERENCE

Ying Doon Moy, plantanswers.com

Hibiscus Moy Grande History, plantanswers.com

The Hardy Satsuma, plantanswers.com

Moy, Dr. Y. D. (n.d.). New Varieties [Review of New Varieties]. San Antonio Botanical Garden. (Original work published 1998)

Dr. Moy with papaya seedlings in greenhouse #2

Volunteers have been at the heart of the organization since its beginning and are essential to fulfilling the Garden’s mission of enriching lives through plants and nature. There are a variety of volunteer roles available at the Garden, including providing garden maintenance, working in the plant sale greenhouse, and supporting or leading programs for youth, families, or adults. Both individuals and groups give back to the Garden regularly. Below we feature three active volunteers to illustrate the variety of ways that people can support the mission of the Garden.

Sandy is a new volunteer who started volunteering at the Garden in August of 2023. Sandy grew up in the Houston area and moved to San Antonio about 3 years ago. She has always loved being in nature, and as a child she worked with her grandmothers in their beautiful and bountiful gardens.

Q: How long have you been visiting the Garden?

A: My husband and I were given a Garden membership as a wedding present 5 years ago. We have been avid garden visitors/ members ever since – best gift ever!

Q: Why did you want to volunteer at the Garden?

A: The Garden brings so much to the City of San Antonio, not just as a beautiful place to visit, but also in its youth and adult educational programs. I love seeing the joyful faces of our visitors, and hearing the excitement and curiosity in the children’s voices as they see something new in the Conservatory Gardens.

Q: What’s your favorite area of the Garden?

A: Some days it is the Conservatory, with its plant diversity, vibrant colors, and varied wildlife. Others, it’s the East Texas Lake area, with its towering pines and sitting areas to enjoy peaceful water’s edge moments. There are just too many wonderful “escape” spots in Garden to choose just one favorite!

Q: Best advice to new volunteers?

A: Be open to new experiences. I started out just wanting to get my hands in the dirt, but I have also been able to participate in youth programs training and school tours. There are a wide variety of volunteer opportunities available at the Garden, and the Garden staff are wonderful to work with.

Sandy Schoellmann, Garden Maintenance Volunteer

Sandy Schoellmann

Vibrante

Art Vazquez, Group Volunteer

Art is the Director, Volunteer Program Coordinator, for the USAA Golden Eagle Club since 2019. The Golden Eagles are one of the groups that volunteer regularly at the Garden. The Golden Eagles is an organization for retired USAA employees who serve their community. Art has been a member at the San Antonio Botanical Garden for 12 years.

Q: What is your favorite place in the Garden?

A: The Big Chairs at the beginning of East Texas and Pinewoods Lake. My family considers the Garden the backyard we wish we had.

Q: Why do you like volunteering at the Garden?

A: The Garden is a second home, it’s family oriented. We always feel comfortable here and are thankful we get to give back at the Garden. Volunteering in the community is all about giving back.

Q: How long have the Golden Eagles been volunteering at the Garden?

A: For a minimum of ten years. Volunteering in the community is all about giving back.

Michelle Leib, Master Gardener and Children’s Vegetable Garden Volunteer

Michelle is a Bexar County Master Gardener who volunteers in our Children’s Vegetable Garden. Michelle is originally from Memphis, TN. She’s lived in different cities all over the US but landed in San Antonio in 2010. She has been visiting the Garden for 13 years.

Q: Why did you want to volunteer at the Garden?

A: I wanted to learn more about planting, growing, and caring for plants in San Antonio. Having hands-on experience and the chance to work with people who know so much more than I do is priceless. I also love the Children’s Vegetable Garden. It allows me to live vicariously - I don’t have a place to grow vegetables and I have very little experience. Add the opportunity to inspire kids and learn from experts - win win win!

Q: What’s your favorite area of the Garden?

A: It’s a toss-up. I am fascinated by the fruit, vegetables and herbs grown in the Culinary Garden. I also love the Old Fashioned Garden. Every year I watch and learn which plants are most attractive to butterflies, hummingbirds, and other pollinators. It’s just so beautiful, and I love being surrounded by so much life.

Q: Best advice to new volunteers?

A: Come curious - you never know what you will learn or receive with every experience.

Q: Favorite thing about Children’s Vegetable Garden?

A: I love having this beautiful, diverse, peaceful haven in the middle of the city. Such a wonderful retreat.

Art Vazquez

Michelle Leib

Volunteers at the Annual Volunteer Appreciation Brunch

An Enduring Commitment

IA Timeline of Community Access

BY KATIE ERICKSON, DIRECTOR OF PROGRAMS

n the Garden’s historical records, the word “access” rings loud and clear. When the Botanical Garden opened to the public on Saturday May 3, 1980, several garden and programmatic initiatives focused on access were in place. In fact, the Garden for the Blind was the site of the groundbreaking for the Garden in 1976. The Garden for the Blind, now named the Sensory Garden, was designed to allow those with visual impairments to “experience the fragrances of a variety of plant life.” Plans were in place for the “Children’s Garden where school groups [would] be given plots to plant and work for educational purposes.” Additionally, the Garden provided “monthly therapy programs at the San Antonio Chest Hospital and at the San Antonio State Hospital [and] members ma[d]e and distribute[d] over 5,000 holiday flower arrangements to 15 local hospitals and nursing homes.”

There are certainly more inclusive practices, but these three historical examples demonstrate the people-centered focus of the Garden from the start.

The Garden entered a new phase of audience engagement and access in 2017 with the opening of an 8-acre expansion and renovation. The Garden’s expansion included new people-centered spaces offering ways for people to engage and connect with nature. The Zachry Foundation Culinary Garden was built to demonstrate how good food grows and how to prepare fresh ingredients in the CHEF (Culinary Health Education for Families) Teaching Kitchen. The Family Adventure Garden was built to give young people and families an opportunity to play in a natural, Hill Country-inspired landscape. With these innovative spaces came new educational programs that encourage nature play, garden-to-table cooking, wellness, and morel.

In 2019, the Garden’s expanded their hours of operation on select nights to increase access to those with a variety of schedules. That same year the Garden joined over 400 museums nationwide in Museums for All², a signature access program of the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS), which offers reduced admission fees for those participating in food assistance programs such as SNAP or WIC. This same concept was applied to the membership program in 2023 with the Garden developing a reduced-price membership level called the Community Membership.

In 2021 the Garden launched the 10,000 Exhibition Access Ticket program that offers free admission to individuals associated with a variety of service-focused community organizations to experience

Mother & Daughter enjoying the Family Adventure Garden

Participant of the CHEF Culinary Youth Program 22 Vibrante

the Garden’s exhibitions, including the recent Imaginary Worlds: Once Upon A Time exhibition. That same year the Garden Board and Leadership Team drafted a five-year strategic plan. The resulting 2022-2026 Strategic Plan committed the Garden to draft and adopt an IDEA policy, which was completed in spring 2023. The resulting Inclusion, Diversity, Equity and Accessibility (IDEA) Policy states that the Botanical Garden fulfills its mission through a commitment to Inclusivity as a core value and practice. San Antonio Botanical Garden celebrates diversity in all forms. The commitment to IDEA guides SABG’s decisions on staffing, programming, outreach, and communications and requires an ongoing commitment that finds full expression in the organizational culture, values, norms, and behaviors. SABG aims to lead by example and be accountable to encouraging diversity as a fundamental and abiding strength of public gardens in South Texas.

The strategic plan also emphasizes the need to increase the number of Pre-K-12 students from across the city by 80% over the duration of the plan. The strategies used to achieve this goal are to meet the needs of schools and students by creating curriculum-based programs, offering pay-what-you-can-pricing, and offering bus transportation reimbursements. The Garden is quickly progressing towards its goal, serving over 20,000 students in year two of the strategic plan, of which roughly half of the students attend a Title 1 school.

With more audience awareness come additional requests for learning opportunities designed to meet the needs of diverse audiences. Being able to adapt or create new learning experiences to meet the needs of the community is a priority for the Garden. For instance, Garden educators co-created a program called GROW: Gardening Rooted in Occupational Wellness with an Occupational Therapist and UT Health San Antonio’s Caring for the Caregiver program³. GROW is designed to promote improved mental health, quality of life, and opportunities for social connection for people living with dementia and their caregivers.

An innovative access program that will launch in 2024 is the Shuttle

Access Program. Inspired by a similar program at the Denver Botanic Garden, the Garden developed a Shuttle Access Program to reduce a variety of visitation barriers. The project is fully funded for one-year and includes a budget to purchase a wheelchair-accessible shuttle and hire a program coordinator who, through continuous outreach to community partners, will coordinate visits for community groups. Guests will be picked up by a Garden employee in the Garden’s Access Shuttle and transported to the Botanical Garden for an experience of their choosing such as exploration on their own or participating in guided tour or class. Following their visit, the guests will be returned to their point-of-origin. The program also provides accommodations as needed, such as language interpreters, adaptive programs, and more. Because all facets of the program, including accommodations, are free, the financial and transportation barriers are lifted.

The Garden is committed to continuing to provide access and audience engagement as the Garden continues to grow. These experiences would not be possible without the generous support of the Garden’s members and contributors!

Participants in the GROW gardening program

Garden educator leads children during the Story of Water program

lAccess Programs generously sponsored by Nancy Smith Hurd Foundation, Kronkosky Charitable Foundation, Valero, H-E-B, The Harvey E. Najim Charitable Foundation.

²Museums for All generously sponsored by Navistar, Inc. ³GROW Program generously sponsored by Anonymous.

The beauty and magic of the Garden comes from the diversity of our plant collections and garden styles, creating many unique gardens across our 38 acres. Exemplifying the botanicals and culture of Japan is Kumamoto En, our exquisite Japanese garden. Kumamoto En has been a beloved garden gem since 1989, when it was originally installed as a gift from our sister city, in Kumamoto, Kyoto, Tokyo. On October 21st, Kumamoto En was rededicated to celebrate the installation of a new azumaya, the gazebo-like structure created for sitting in quiet contemplation of the garden’s verdant solitude.

The newly reconstructed azumaya reflects the sukiya building style prevalent in Kyoto, using materials in their natural, yet refined state to relay nature’s simplicity, harmony and balance. The azumaya is a complimentary component of the garden’s design elements devoted to stone, water and plants, providing space for quiet thinking and respite from our busy lives.

Last renovated in 2005, exposure to nearly 20 years of Texas summers and winters left the azumaya in need of a complete renovation. The new azumaya was rededicated with special thanks for the generous support from Toyota | Texas, the City of San Antonio, the E. Rhodes and Leona B. Foundation, and our beloved sister city, Kumamoto. One of our garden staff attending the event was Byron Cox who was only five years old in 2005 when his father brought him to the rededication that year. Bryon is a second-generation Garden employee—his father, Paul Cox was an important figure in the development of the Garden, influencing much of the Garden’s original collections and designs and providing leadership as a Garden director. One of the Kyoto gardeners who was also here in 2005, recognized the now grownup Byron and fitted him with a kimono in a gesture of remembrance and goodwill. This warm exchange demonstrates the enduring bond with our sister city and the beauty and power of gardens as it spans generations of plants and people.

There are more exciting restorations to come for Kumamoto En. Plans are underway for 2024 to repair the bamboo fencing that creates the beautiful enclosure around the botanical jewel box that is Kumamoto En. When the special bamboo materials become available, the gardening team from Japan will return to oversee the meticulous placement of the fencing and the intricate design and tying method of the bamboo wraps that bind each post together

Every aspect of Kumamoto En is deliberate and based on tradition.

Two friends were having a quiet conversation and enjoying the new azumaya. When another visitor strolled by, the friends got up to leave. The visitor asked them to remain, and the friends invited the visitor to stay: “We can share and have a moment of serenity for today.”

Paul Cox at the azumaya dedication after the 2005 restoration

Byron Cox, son of Paul Cox, being fitted with a Japanese kimono by one of the original gardeners from Kumamoto. The two had met when Byron was a boy and the gardener remembered him!

GENEROUS SUPPORT FROM Toyota | Texas

City of Kumamoto

E. Rhodes and Leona B. Foundation

City of San Antonio

Representatives from Kumamoto En, Kyoto, Japan, the City of San Antonio, and the San Antonio Botanical Garden in front of the newly restored azumaya, 2023.

Skilled works-men from Kumamoto diligently assembling the new azumaya, 2023.

Litchke’s Leave

Interview by Ashley Colwell

In 1992, when Scott Litchke began his full-time gardening role at the Garden, he couldn’t anticipate how much he would shape its future and how deeply it would shape him. For over three decades, Scott has been a guiding hand behind the gardens, nurturing its growth and the growth of the horticulture team. During his time, Scott saw the garden expand by 8 acres and nearly 100 employees, privatize from the City, undergo major master plan changes, and become a worldclass Botanical Garden. The Garden has been marked by Scott’s dedication and deep-rooted passion for nature, qualities that have shaped its physical appearance, ethos, and spirit.

In 2020, Scott was promoted to Associate Director of Gardens and Conservatories. When I asked him how he made it to this part of his journey, he told me, “In truth, the title was given to me when Sabina came [to the Garden], and it has a lot to do with how long I’ve been here.” The job was tailor made for him because of Scott’s influence and institutional knowledge.

In the five days after he announced his retirement, Scott repeated to everyone who asked how he felt, “I will miss this place, but it’s the right decision.” This sentiment was echoed when we sat down to talk about his years at the Garden just two days before his last. Our conversation has been edited for clarity and length.

When you first joined the Garden in 1992, and I looked it up to make sure it was 1992, what were your initial impressions?

Well, I felt that I was really fortunate to work at such an amazing place. I actually had never been here before my first day of work. When I got here, I just thought it was an amazing place, and it seemed so large to me. Now, it doesn’t seem so; it feels kind of small, actually. I’ve been here for so long it just doesn’t feel so big. But yeah, I was full of excitement.

When you first started, where in the Garden did you work?

In the beginning, they put me down in the greenhouses, in the head house. So, my first job was to clean up those greenhouses. They were in terrible disarray, a lot of weeds and dead plant material. It had become a sort of dumping ground for the parks department. They brought plants from all the other parks and crammed them into those greenhouses. My first job was to get the greenhouse in a more orderly and manageable fashion. So, there were challenges every day and my main goal was just to improve any area I was assigned to. Eventually, I worked in all areas, one way or another, and my goal was always improvement.

Looking at the Garden now and thinking about how it looked in 1992, does it even remotely resemble the Garden you first arrived at?

No! Not at all! We were city-operated by the parks department when I started. The maintenance was poor. There were weeds in the beds and just basic gardening techniques that were not used. The beds were just not taken good care of. We had a lot of talented people on staff back then, with extensive plant knowledge, but for whatever reason, the maintenance was sloppy. Now, we’re so much cleaner, organized, neater. The Garden has grown so much since then. It’s a totally different place.

Oh, wow, that’s interesting to hear. I can’t imagine seeing weeds in the Garden beds now. How have botanical practices changed then over the years?

Well, again, we have better maintenance now. Not to say that the gardeners then weren’t hard-working people. I just don’t think they had the same eye for detail as we do now. Also, we use a lot more native plants now. Native plants are much more popular now, and we’ve done a great job of making people aware of the benefits of planting native plants. In general, people are more eco-conscious now and aware of sustainable agriculture and environmental issues.

Yes, having been here for three decades, I’m sure you’ve seen the shift better than most people. Could you have ever guessed you would’ve been here for as long as you have?

No way. I did not think that I would ever be here this long. It went by real fast, though. When I look back at it, the time, it seems like a blink of an eye. I figured I’d be here for a couple of years and see what it was like and I didn’t anticipate being here this long, but it was just the perfect fit.

So, the Garden wasn’t in your long-term plan at all. What was your original plan?

Well, I didn’t really have one. I came from a landscape company here in town, and when I got this opportunity, I appreciated it because it was full-time work. When it rains at a private landscape company, they send you home. Plus, the benefits there weren’t as good. I was really happy to get this job because it’s this amazing place, plus it’s full-time and with full benefits. So, I was like, wow, I’ve stepped up.

Besides benefits, how was that job different from this one?

At the other job, it felt like time was money, and you were rushed to get in and out as fast as possible. At the Garden, everything was more laid back, in the best way. It was more plant-focused and more people-focused. So, totally different in culture.

So, you’ve painted this picture of how the Garden’s changed in the past 32 years, but how has your role at the Garden changed?

When I first started, I was an entry-level gardener. Over the years, I learned from some very talented people, and as time went on, I’ve been counted on to lead a lot more of the installations and the realization of new garden spaces. I’ve been tasked to train new staff members because of the experience that I have here. Also, I started interacting more with the public, with our guests and members than I ever used to.

Yes, I know you recently did the Historical Garden Tour for member month. You definitely have the most knowledge about the Garden here.

Yeah, yeah. It makes you feel like you’re old, but I do remember the early days better than most people here! You know, I’ve been here for 32 years and I think the next closest person has been here for eight years. So, it’s a big gap.

I know that one of the big projects you stewarded here was the revitalization of the Texas Native Trail. What was that project like from conception to fruition?

Yes, the native area is such an important part of the Garden, and it was never really understood by any of our

guests. I used to run into people all the time up on the Hill Country Trail or in the East Texas Pineywoods, and they’re pointing at their map, asking, “Where’s the Native Trail?”

So, I think the issue is it was never clearly marked or defined when you were here in the Garden. A group of talented people, John Troy, Klaus Andrews, Claire Alexander, Sarah Lake—those are the ones I remember most, but there were many others—had this idea to simplify and unify the native trail system.

In April of 2006, they decided to make a better trail system, to make it all begin and end at the same point. So, the TNT pavilion and TNT trails were discussed, planned, and installed. One of the big problems, but also maybe not that big, was, and is, keeping the trails looking good. The East Texas Pineywoods trail especially, because we don’t get the rain we need for those East Texas specimens. Recently though, the Hill Country and South Texas trails have been repaved with more natural concrete paving. It’s a much better improvement.

Before, it was just roll base and granite. The trails would wash out easily and they would get big potholes when it rained. There would just be so many puddles and mud. Thanks to Sam, the Director of Ops, we got a contractor and the funding to get that new surface in there and it’s a big improvement.

What other projects stick out to you?

Well, there’s so many. One of them is the Auld House.

It was donated to the Garden and we took a crew of gardeners up to Leakey, Texas to dismantle the house and we brought it back, log by log, and reassembled it in the Hill Country area. That was a big project.

Both the WaterSaver Garden and WaterSaver Lane, which is now WaterSaver Community, were great accomplishments. WaterSaver Lane with the six different landscapes that guests could come and look at and get ideas of what plants were recommended for their landscapes. I really enjoyed WaterSaver Lane. The original WaterSaver Garden was also amazing. Two years ago, that garden was redone, and it’s even better now.

I also really enjoyed working on the Bird Watch, which was long overdue because this is a great area for birds. There’s been over 260 different species of birds have been spotted here. We contracted out the actual construction of the structure, but we did all the landscaping and hardscaping in that area.

But, those are just name a few of my favorites. I’m sure others will come to mind later!

Wow, that’s a lot, and they’re all, I feel, pretty integral parts of the Garden now. So, now you’re retiring. How does that feel?

Mixed emotions. I’m nervous, a little bit scared. I’ve worked all my life, and most of it’s been here. So, the fact that I won’t get up in the morning and come here is a little unsettling, but it’s the right decision.

You know, I love the outdoors, like cycling, kayaking, and just hiking. And I’m just going to spend my days doing those things, so I’m excited.

What legacy do you wish to leave behind, and how do you hope to see the Garden grow?

“...I hope that I led by example and showed that hard work pays off and to just love what you do. You can make a difference if you apply yourself and I hope I have.”

Well, I’d like to see us continue to educate the public on nature and the impact we all have on this planet, how nature can heal, and how you can make a difference. We’re heading that way, especially in educating the public. As for my legacy, I hope that I led by example and showed that hard work pays off and to just love what you do. You can make a difference if you apply yourself and I hope I have.

Right, everyone is always going to be thinking of you and asking themselves, “What would Scott do?”

Right, exactly. They’re going to be thinking, what would Scott do, that crazy guy?

What will you miss most about the Garden?

I’m so used to arriving before the sun comes up. It’s usually dark or just getting light when I come to work. So, coming here at sun up and just seeing what projects we had for the day, and seeing what challenges the day brings. There’s always something different every day. You may have a plan when you get here, but that plan can go out the window. So, I’ll miss that part of the job.

I’ll also miss working with my coworkers, my team. I’ve made some very good friends along the way, and I’ll miss working with them and engaging with the members, some of whom I’ve known for a long time. Some of the long-time members I was on a first-name basis with, and they’re always interested in what we’re doing, and I’ll miss talking to them.

I have this idea of that the gardeners here are essentially like the caretakers of the Garden. What advice would you give to the future caretakers as someone who’s done it for so long?

Remember that people would not come to the Garden if it weren’t pretty and a nice place to come to. The events and programming are so important, and that brings people to the Garden, but if the Garden didn’t look good, nobody would want to be here. I just want to tell them that gardening makes a difference; it matters what you do, and it should bring you joy and offer challenges and opportunities.

So, yeah, it matters what you do here, and just love what you do.

In a hilarious turn of events, after only three weeks of retirement in the Connecticut outdoors, Scott Litchke made his way back to the Garden and accepted the role as Senior Horticulturist.

He’s earn a new nickname around the Garden, everyone affectionately referring to him as Scott “Boomerang” Litchke.

Welcome back, Scott; we suppose some roots run too deep to ever truly leave.

SOWING THE FUTURE

By Michael Eason, Associate Director of Conservation

Journey with Michael Eason into the world of seed banks, the meticulous process of seed collection and storage, and the critical role of seed banks in global plant conservation efforts.

Texas Lignum-vitae Guaiacum angustifolium

In

late May of 2003, I was seated in a crowded auditorium listening to a presentation about seed banks. Specifically, the Millennium Seed Bank Project, which is a global plant conservation effort put forth by Kew Gardens. Their aim was to collect 10% of the worlds seed-bearing flora by the end of 2010. Images of people collecting seed from around the world were shown. The desert southwest in the United States, Kenya, Mexico, Argentina, Australia, and other far-off and captivating images of botanists collecting seed from wild populations held my interest, as did the photos of plants, exotic fruits, seed, and various seed cleaning and storage facilities. At the end, the presenter mentioned funding that was recently provided to the Wildflower Center to hire a full-time seed collector. Since, at the time, my position at the Center was temporary, I immediately rushed over to Flo Oxley’s office (who was the Conservation Director) to express my interest in the position. Within minutes I was brought on permanently, and advised to be ready to “hit the ground running” the following Monday. And thus, my career, and crash course, in seed banks began.

What I quickly learned was that there are generally two types of seed – recalcitrant and orthodox. Recalcitrant seed are from plants such as Oaks, Red Buckeyes, Avocados, and Cocoa. Essentially the seed of these species need to germinate soon after they mature. They do not have the ability to go dormant, or withstand longperiods of desiccation. At the other end of the spectrum are orthodox species. Seed of orthodox species have the ability to withstand long periods of desiccation and can remain dormant in the soil seed bank for years, if not decades.

Think of those desert super-blooms that appear every few years throughout the arid regions of the Southwest United States, or look a bit closer to home – this is the reason why some years we have exceptional bluebonnet displays here in Texas while others are a bit drab. Those seeds have been dormant, waiting for the right conditions, which typically means well-timed and ample precipitation for the seed to break dormancy and provide us with beautiful floral displays throughout the spring.

There are many examples of seeds locked away for decades or centuries and then germinated, defying all odds. In the 1960s seeds of the Date Palm (Phoenix dactylifera) were excavated during an archaeological dig near the dead sea. The seeds, estimated to be 2,000 years old, were successfully germinated forty years later in 2005. Seeds of the sacred lotus, Nelumbo nucifera, estimated to be over 1,200 years old, were found in a Manchurian lake bed in the early 1980’s and germinated. Botanists have germinated seed from herbarium sheets dating back to the late 1800’s, sometimes reviving rare species, or species extinct in the wild.

What botanists are able to do, and why seed banks work so well as a conservation tool, is to tap into that built in ability for orthodox seed to go dormant and withstand long periods of drought. They learned, if seed is properly collected, cleaned, and dried to where their moisture content is less than 10% (think of

moisture content as humidity levels in air), and then freeze at low temperatures, seed can remain viable for decades, if not centuries.

HOW WE DO IT

First is the collection. Early in the season plants are located, typically in bloom, and properly identified. Over the months to come, return visits are made, monitoring various populations, to check on conditions and progress of seed production. Eventually a return visit will yield a seed collection. For common plants, we collect no more than 20% of available seed in a given season, for rare plants that number will drop to 10% or less, depending upon the species, availability of seed, and other factors.

Most seed that we collect are considered dry – which simply means there are no fleshy parts to deal with, such as those you’ll find in plans such as Mexican Plum, Yaupon, and other bird or mammal dispersed fruits. For dry seed they are simply kept in either a paper envelope or bag, to allow for air flow and prevent any fungal issues, and kept in a cool, dry environment until they return to the Garden for cleaning. Fleshy fruits are kept in plastic bags or small containers until the fleshy portions can be removed. At the Garden, seed is then allowed to dry further, spread out on racks. During the cleaning process leaves, chaff, and other plant parts are removed leaving pure seed. From this point seed is then placed in a drying cabinet in order to bring the moisture content to below 10%. This final step slows the

Date Palm seeds, estimated to be 2,000 years old have been successfully germinated.

One of the first seed banks is the Vavilov Research Institute of Plant Industry in St. Petersburg, Russia which was established in 1921.

The Millenium Seed Bank have banked over 40,000 species, approximately 16% of the world’s flora.

The national seed bank in Fort Collins Colorado houses 16,000 plant species from the United States.

At less than 0.2mm in length, Orchids produce the smallest seeds in the plant kingdom.

Tracy’s Hawthorn Crataegus tracyi

Tripterocalyx

Mexican pinyon Pinus cembroides

aging process of the seed and allows for the seed to be frozen without any damage from internal ice-crystal formation. Finally, after the drying process, the seed is sorted into a variety of containers. For long term storage, five or more years, the seed is placed in heat-sealed aluminum envelopes or rubber-sealed glass containers to prevent moisture from entering, and then stored in a freezer, typically at -18° C or 0° F. If we’ve done our job correctly – from initial collection to storage, the seed we collect will remain viable for generations.

Here at the Garden, as we increase our seed bank and our living collections, most seed we collect is for short-term storage, generally less than five years. All seeds go through the cleaning and drying process, but we bring the moisture content down to 20%, not 10%. Afterwards, we then place the seed in re-sealable containers, again either rubber-sealed glass containers or resealable aluminum envelopes. This allows us to easily access the seed for propagation purposes, or to share with other gardens or nurseries.

Collecting and storing seed for future use is not new, people have been collecting seed for millennia. Ever since those first people discovered the wonders of agriculture and propagation, seed was collected. It is only in the past century that we have been using seed banks as a conservation tool. One of the first seed banks is the Vavilov Research Institute of Plant Industry in St. Petersburg, Russia which was established in 1921. Since then, numerous seed banks have arisen. We now have over 1700 seed banks worldwide – an indispensable tool for plant conservation as an estimated 40% of the world’s flora is at risk of extinction.

While many of the seed banks, like the Svalbard Global Seed Vault in Norway, focus on crop species, others like the Millennium Seed Bank mentioned earlier house native plants from around the world and have now banked over 40,000 species, approximately 16% of the world’s flora. While the Garden’s seed bank focuses on species of Texas and the Southwest U.S., we are part of the global community, conserving our flora regionally for future generations.

If you are interested in our seed bank and would like to know more about how you can support our work, please contact Michael Eason at meason@sabot.org

Senegalia berlandieri seed

Antelope Horn Milkweed Asclepias asperula

THE VAN ES FAMILY

Elky shares her cherished memories, from hosting her daughter’s birthday party to the valuable lessons the Garden has imparted, revealing how this verdant oasis has become a beloved part of their family’s story and a symbol of community and learning.

YOU’VE BEEN INVOLVED WITH THE GARDEN FOR A LONG TIME. WHAT IS YOUR “WHY?” AS IN, WHAT KEEPS YOU COMING BACK YEAR AFTER YEAR? The Garden has become our favorite family destination. At any given time, you will find multiple Garden events posted on our family calendar. We are always looking forward to our next exciting event at the Garden. We have fallen in love with world-class exhibits, family cooking classes, Lightscape spectaculars, Movies in the Garden, dining, shopping in the Garden’s one-of-a-kind boutique, and the list goes on and on. You’ll find us at the very front of the line to enter an event and we are the absolute last family to leave the Garden at the end of the night! We are always given a warm welcome and a sincere “see you soon” at the end of each night. We know and love many of the Garden staff. They treat us like family!

TELL US ABOUT YOUR FIRST EXPERIENCE AT THE GARDEN AND YOUR EXPERIENCES HERE WITH YOUR CHILDREN, FAMILY, AND LOVED ONES. The very first time we visited the Garden, we were in absolutely awe of the grounds and we could not believe we had never been there before! Ever since that day, we have aimed to explore every inch of the 38 lush acres. We love finding fun new spots just as much as we delight in returning to our original favorites. We love how the Garden is transformed for every event. Every celebration at the Garden means we get to experience each area in a new way. We love how our favorite hill becomes the backdrop for a nighttime movie or a dazzling flashlight maze. Fun exploration spots in the family adventure garden become artist retreats, spooky mazes, or spider hunting zones. Our beloved wildflower field transforms into a photo session and meet and greet with the Easter Bunny or a nighttime sea of twinkling bluebonnets. We enjoy the Garden year round. Just when we think we know it well, it finds a new way to surprise us!

WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE MEMORY HERE? We love the Garden so much that we hosted our daughter’s birthday party at the Betty Kelso Center. We wanted to celebrate our daughter in our favorite place and we wanted to introduce the Garden to our loved ones. As I go through thousands of photos that we have snapped over the years at the Garden, my most treasured photos are those of my

child sharing the joy of the garden with her friends and family. She delighted in showing party guests her favorite spots. She even led an excursion to feed turtles and fish at the East Texas Pineywoods Lake, showing her guests “her spot.” We will always cherish our magical day at the Betty Kelso Center and Greehey Lawn, making floral headbands, dancing, and celebrating in our garden. We are forever grateful to the Garden’s former event director Juan Gonzalez for his professionalism, expertise, creativity, and overall amazing personality.

WHAT DOES THE GARDEN PROVIDE TO YOU AND YOUR FAMILY? We always feel at home in our Garden and we are always ready to learn, explore, cook, dine, shop, and dance at our favorite place. It is a place that makes us feel special. We truly feel transported on every visit. We’ve visited Frida and Diego’s Casa Azul right in the Garden’s very own rose garden. It inspired us to host our own Frida Kahlo fiesta in the Garden for our daughter’s birthday! We’ve been carried away to France as well as Alice’s Wonderland during our family cooking classes. My daughter runs home to recreate every recipe we have learned in the Zachry Foundation Culinary Garden and CHEF Teaching Pavilion. I’m thankful to the Garden for fueling her passion for cooking and gardening.

WHAT EXPERIENCES HAVE YOU HAD HERE THAT YOU WANT TO MAKE SURE CARRY THROUGH TO YOUR CHILD AND FUTURE GENERATIONS? We are grateful for all of the learning experiences we’ve had at the Garden. We have made beautiful and life-long memories with grandma, aunts, uncles cousins and friends. We’ve spent sunny mornings splashing at the No Name Creek and shopping at beautiful outdoor markets. As a family, we’ve learned about plant and flower species, spices, bees, moths, and water conservation, just to name a few. We hope that our daughter treasures this family time in the Garden and continues learning and growing with her future children as well.

WHAT DO HOPE THE GARDEN TO BE FOR THE COMMUNITY?

The Garden feels like home to us. We hope that other families in the community may feel that sense of belonging there as well. We hope that the Garden is a safe haven and a special place for others in the community as it has been for us.

The Garden celebrates the most successful gala to date! The 16th Annual Splendor in the Garden, chaired by Megan and Tres Steves with a stellar committee raised over $430,000 for children’s programming and operations. Over 500 generous supporters attended and experienced the Garden adorned with the giant living sculptures of Imaginary Worlds: Once Upon a Time.

After a enchanting cocktail hour around the Dragon, aerial mermaids, stilt walkers and living tables, attendees passed through the beautiful orchid displays in the Conservatory and the powerful Pegasus to arrive at a gorgeous al fresco dinner on Greehey Lawn.

The evening’s finale also introduced the next chapter for the Garden — an incredible firework show above the lawn and after party in The Betty Kelso Center with Hunt Slonem’s dazzling 15-foot high bunny sculpture Gema as the focal point.

Splendor in the Garden is our largest fundraising event of the year and the Garden is extremely grateful to our dynamic gala Chairs and Committee, and all sponsors and underwriters of the event that support the Garden’s mission of enriching lives through plants and nature. We are thrilled to announce the 2024 Chairs, Carolina and A.J. Lewis, IV.

Growing the Garden

Leaving a Lasting Impact A Long Standing Partnership

The Garden deeply wishes it had the opportunity to celebrate and recognize Dr. Sidorsky’s inclusion of the Garden in her estate planning during her lifetime, and we find ourselves in awe of her selfless dedication to our mission. To our great surprise, The Garden was informed of this incredible contribution only after her passing, leaving The Garden deeply moved and grateful.

While the Garden deeply wishes it had the opportunity to celebrate Dr. Sidorsky’s during her lifetime, we find ourselves in awe of her selfless dedication to our mission. This extraordinary donation is an enduring testament to her commitment to enriching lives through plants and nature.

The impact of Dr. Sidorsky’s contribution will be felt for generations to come...

With this invaluable support, the Garden is further empowered to advance its mission through conservation initiatives, educational programs, and access programs. The impact of Dr. Sidorsky’s contribution will be felt for generations to come, and our hearts are filled with profound gratitude for her unspoken generosity.

When making a planned gift to the San Antonio Botanical Garden, please let us know so we can celebrate your generosity during your lifetime. Planned gifts of all sizes help the Garden secure a brighter future, growing through your legacy for generations to come. No gift is too small; invested over time, any gift makes a significant impact.

For questions or to inform us of your planned gift, please contact the Development Department at 210.536.1406. Your support is vital to our mission, and we deeply appreciate your generosity.

H-E-B has been a longstanding partner of the San Antonio Botanical Garden for more than 15 years.

Most recently, H-E-B generously sponsored free access passes from May to October in 2021, 2022, and 2023. These passes allow visitors that may not otherwise come to the Garden an opportunity to enjoy plants and nature, experience temporary exhibitions like Imaginary Worlds: Once Upon A Time, and access free with admission programming. The Garden partners with community organizations such as PreK for SA, Disability SA, and Kinetic Kids to bolster redemption rates and maximize the visitor experience.

Interim CEO Katherine Trumble said, “H-E-B’s commitment has enabled the Garden to distribute 30,000 access passes in three years. And our redemption rate is up 10%, due to trusted relationship with other local nonprofits.”

Director of Finance Planning and Analysis at HEB and SABG Board Member Andy Russ also commented on the partnership stating, “HEB is a proud supporter of the San Antonio Botanical Garden. We share a commitment to environmental sustainability and creating meaningful experiences that strengthen community.”

All this highlights H-E-B and the San Antonio Botanical Garden’s shared commitment to inclusivity and sharing the Garden with all of San Antonio.

IN APPRECIATION

Donations made December 1st, 2022 - November 30, 2023

$1,000,000+

City of San Antonio

$300,000 - $999,999

Betty Stieren Kelso Foundation

Mays Family Foundation

$100,000 - $299,999

Estate of Mary Marshall Sidorsky

John R. and Greli N. Less

Charitable Trust

$50,000 - $99,999

Ancira Enterprises, Inc.

Daniel J. Sullivan Family

Charitable Foundation

Elizabeth and Floyd McGown

Charitable Fund of the San Antonio Area Foundation

Elma Dill Russell Spencer Foundation

James M. Cox Foundation

Jeanie Rabke Wyatt Family Foundation

Kronkosky Charitable Foundation

Dacia and Lanham Napier

Navistar, Inc.

The TND Family Foundation

$25,000 - $49,999

Anonymous

The Brown Foundation, Inc.

Capital Group

Carla and John Brozovich

Dickson-Allen Foundation

Google Charitable Fund

The Greehey Family Foundation

Gretchen Swanson Family Foundation

H-E-B

The John and Florence Newman Foundation

The Nordan Trust

Candace Andrews and Uwe Pontius

Robert J. Kleberg, Jr. and Helen C. Kleberg Foundation

Russell Hill Rogers

Fund for the Arts

Scott Petty Family Foundation

Paula and Herb Stumberg

Toyota University Health

Valero

The Zachry Foundation

$10,000- $24,999

Allison and Alan Pyle Family Foundation

The Amini Family Charitable Fund

Ann and Forrest Word Family Foundation

Ann Ash

C.B. and Anita Branch Trust

Frost Bank

Lou Celia and Don Frost

Jana and Jeff Galt

Gloria Galt Fund of the San Antonio Area Foundation

Karen and Jim Greenwood

Valerie and Jack Guenther

Jill and Allan Guetzlaff

The Harvey E. Najim Charitable Foundation

Andrea and Frank Holmes

Pamela and Ryland Howard

Jack and Valerie Guenther Foundation

Elizabeth and Robert Lende

Susan C. Lewis

Carolina and AJ Lewis

Lowe Foundation

McCombs Foundation

Cynthia and Forrest Miller

Nancy Moorman

Judy Morton

Myra Stafford Pryor

Charitable Trust

Nelson Puett Foundation|

Callie and Andrew Price

Barbie and Toby O’Conner

Petty Hefte Family Foundation

Joan Cheever and Dennis Quinn

Elizabeth and Barry Roberts

Anne and Jeff Rochelle

Cathy and Phil Sagebiel

The Steves Foundation

Megan and Sam Bell Steves, III

Sarah and Sam Bell Steves, II

V.H. McNutt Memorial Foundation, Inc.

Claire and George Vaughan|

The Vaughan Foundation

Bette and Jack Vexler

Suzanne and Dick Wade

Julie and Warren Wilkinson

William Knox Holt Foundation

$5,000 - $9,999

Ruth and John Agather

Claire and John Alexander

The Alfred S. Gage Foundation

Molly and Michael Amini

Margie and Mote Baird

Bolner’s Fiesta Products

Elise and Craig Boyan

Brown Foundation

Joe Byrd

Cavender Auto Family

City of San Antonio Parks and Recreation

Creative Fundraising Advisors

Culligan San Antonio

EZ Park

Faye L. and William L. Cowden

Charitable Foundation

Burkley and Jonny Fitzsimons

Laura and Burnell Gates

Katherine and Lane Golden

Julia and Brett Grossman

Nancy Haywood

Hixon Properties Incorporated

Marty and Steve Hixon

Kathryn and Michael Hoffman

Horizon Design & Development, Inc.

Inspire

Brian T. Kelleher

Estee and Luke Kellogg

King Family Foundation

Karen and Gary Kittrell

Margaret and Bill Klesse

Cally and Will Kothmann

Kroger Delivery

Barbara Kyse

Carrie Gray and Christopher Lefelhocz

Megan and James Lewis

Camille and Clark Mandigo

Martha Mares Lebo Children’s Education Fund of the San Antonio Area Foundation

Carol and John McGuire

Whitney Solcher and Joe Miller

Meredith K. Morrill

Barbara and Jeffrey Moss

The Muriel F. Siebert Foundation Inc.

Susanna Morrow and Ross Olsaver

Carolyn and Allan Paterson

Megan and Michael Perkins

The Rachel and Ben Vaughan Foundation

Randolph-Brooks Federal Credit Union

Heather and Randy Rodgers

Wallace Rogers

San Antonio Water System

William Scanlan, Jr.

Jenny and Rick Schimpff

Jordan Vexler and Albert Shannon

Kristi and Blake Stanford

Kay and Dennis Stein

Steves & Sons

Sandra and Scott Teeter

Susan and Larry Todd

Mary West and Richard Traylor

Vaulkshire Investment Advisors

Ming and Hinnerk von Bargen

Shari Mao and Erik Weitzel

Stephanie and Christopher Wilde

Joan and W. Reed Williams

$1,000 - $4,999

Michael J. Adams

Lyn and Omar Akhil

Alexander Babbage, Inc.

The Allison and Jaimie Hayne Family Fund

The Antrim Family

The Arch and Stella Rowan Foundation, Inc.

Mary Arno

Kennedy Hatfield Asel and Aaron Asel

Vivienne and Chris Bathie

Martha and Carlos Bazan

Lindsey and John Beck

Tisha and B. Kyle Beck

Katie and Tyson Becker

Susan Bhatia

John Binkley†

Nick Binkley

Patricia and John Bridwell

Broadway Bank

Emily and Patrick Brooks

Katherine and Walter Brown

Lauren and John Browning

Alexa Brundage

Michele and Randy Cadwallader

Paula and Jim Callaway

Carla and Daniel Carlson

Sabina Carr

Carriqui

Diana and Chris Carson

Center for Plant Conservation

Jean Cheever

Rea Ferandez and Justin Chung

Barbara Clark

Sarah and Jon Cochran

Rhonda and Frank Coleman

Penelope Speier and Edward Collins

Comanche Yucca

Anita and John Comander

Dr. Kathleen Connell

Federica Padilla de Covey and Kevin Covey

Mary Anne and Tony Crosby

Cru Vintage Rentals

Wiede and Jon Cutshall

Keli and Charles Davidson

Karen Dawson

Dorothy and Matt DiOrio

Ellie and Chuck Du Val

Linda and Edgar Duncan

Barbara and Gabriel Durand-Hollis

Julia and Duke Edwards

Joel K. Erben

Jessica Farrell

Fern Lee Finck

David Fisher

Mary and Lewis Fisher

Kay Fitch

Blair and Joseph Fitzsimons

Katy and Ted Flato

Alison Flaum

Mercedes and Philip Fletcher

Caroline A. Forgason

Barbara Francis

Kelly and Steven Fry

Anne and Marco Gamboa

Magdalena and Raúl Gaona

Lauren and Craig Garansuay

Jill and Carlos Garcia

Rebekah and Christopher Garcia

Toni and Richard Goldsmith

Paula and John Green

CeCe and James Griffin

Triana and Brandon Grossman

Adrianna and Christopher Grossman

Dolores and LeMoyne Hall

Happithy Marketing|

Thomas McBryde

Melinda McFarland-Hartson and Reid Hartson

Jane Ballantyne Hegeler

Mary and William Henrich

Nancy Higuchi

Ellen Hill

Karen J. Hixon

Janet and Robert Holliday

Juana E. Hollin-Avery

Meredith and Michael Howard

Jeanette Howe

Laura Cheng and Dean Hull

John and Sue Jockusch

Charitable Fund of the San Antonio Area Foundation

John S. Troy, Landscape Architect

Inc.

Kelly Wade Jewelers

Susan and John Kerr

Leigh Ann and Greg King

Mary Kunz

Lisa and Edward Kopplow

Bonnie and John Korbell

Lake|Flato Architects

Susan and William Lane

Catherine and Richard Lange

Debbie and Matt Layton

Marina Gonzales and Gerald Lee

Debra and Roy Leonard

Patricia Bridwell and John Lewis

Samuel E. Maclin

Parnak and Farbod Malek

Elizabeth and Madison Marceau

Paul B. Martin

Susan Martin

Diana Martinez

Melissa Martinez

Mauze Construction

Amelita and David Mauze

Amy and Ken Maverick

Marie and Ryan Mays

Celeste and William McEntire

Jane and Joe McFarlane

Carol and Peter McGanity

Dana McGinnis

Nicola and Michael McLaughlin

Claire and Easton McNab

Connie and Sandy McNab

Holly and Philip Miller

Janet Montagne

Trudy and Ed Moore

Laura and Lew Moorman

Katarzyna and Michael Morchat

Diana Morehouse

Sydney and Gregg Muenster

Native Plant Society of Texas

Austin Chapter

Native Plant Society of Texas

Fredericksburg Chapter

Jennifer and Kevin Box

Joe O’Conner

Elaine Olivier

Jana Orsinger and William Orr

Elena and Luis Oseguera

Londi Page

Patricia and Henrik Palme

Suzanne and Rusty Palmer

Margaret and Ryan Pape

Anne and Charles Parrish

Susan Mooberry and Gregory Patterson

Carol and Kirk Patterson

Jill and Gardner Peavy

Pepsi

Ramona Petitt

Emilie and Christopher Petty

Eleanor and Scott Petty

Liza Philpy

Phyllis Browning Company

Andrea and Karl Pichler

Joannah and Christopher Pickett

Susan and Darrel Porr

Julianne and Michael Posey

Beverly and Jon Purdy

Allison and Alan Pyle

Mary Quandt

Mari and Jimmy Rabinowitz

Kimberly and J.M. Ramirez

Tory and Clay Richmond

Corinna Holt Richter and Joseph Richter, Jr.

Steven Robbins

Jacqueline Beretta and Benjamin Rodriguez

RSM US LLP

Jan Jarboe Russell and Lewis Russell Jr.

The Ruth and Edward Austin

Foundation

Nancy Ruth

San Pellegrino

Denise Smith-Schlaudt and Ken Schlaudt

Jocelyn Selig

Meagan and Adam Shadfan

Coral Diaz and Allen Sikes

Gary Cox and Michael Simon

Whitney and James Smith

Susan and Lon Smith

The Smothers Foundation

Lauren and Jeremy Smyth

Debi Sovereign

St. Luke’s Episcopal Church

Ellise and Michael Steed

Sarah and Sam Bell Steves

Norton Stuart

Kirk Swanson

Cheryl and William Swantner

Target Circle

TBG Partners

Weston Miller and Ryan Theuninck

Megan Jernigan and Joshua Thomas

Donna Thompson

CeCe and Will Thompson

The Tim and Karen Hixon Foundation

Rajia Tobia

Bonnie and Stephan Tompsett

Alisa and John Travis

Kimberly and Matthew Traxinger

Troy Jessee Construction

Trudy and Ed Moore

Charitable Fund

Katherine and Kristopher Trumble

Lisa Uhl

Elky and Mark Van Es

Melissa and Robert Vaughan

Vaulkshire LLC

Franze and Chuck Wall

Mary and Roger Wallace

Robin and Jason Warman

Kelsey and Bryan Waters

Ann Watson

Lora Watts

Roberta Churchin and Bob Webster

Ellen and Don Weinacht

Wells Fargo

Susan Wilkins-Geery

Williams-Chadwick Family

Charitable Fund

Patrick Williamson

Thomas Wirth

Sarah Elaine Kearney and Ryan Yaden

William Young

Julie and Peter Zacher

Mollie Zachry

Lulu and Marcos Zertuche

Sherri Zimmerman

Hibiscus Circle

$5,000

Ann Griffith Ash

Judy H. Branch

Carla and John Brozovich

Laura and Burnell Gates

Valerie and Jack Guenther

Marty and Steve Hixon

THE PERENNIALS GIVING CIRCLES

Members as of November 30, 2023

Cenizo

Legacy Circle

Fern Lee Finck

Barbara C. Kyse

Elizabeth and Robert Lende

Candace Andrews and Uwe Pontius

Kathleen Kingsley Robertson

Mary Marshall Sidorsky†

Gary Cox and Michael Simon

Patricia A. Trenton

Abigail and George Kampmann

Margaret and Bill Klesse

Barbara C. Kyse

Elizabeth and Robert Lende

Carol and John McGuire

Cynthia and Forrest Miller

Judith N. Morton

Roxana and Bruce Richardson

Elizabeth and Barry Roberts

Kay and Dennis Stein

Sandra and Scott Teeter

Mary West and Richard Traylor

Joan and W. Reed Williams

Esperanza Circle

$2,500

Michael J. Adams

Susan and Ernie Altgelt

Tisha and Kyle Beck

Emily and Patrick Brooks

Paula and Jim Callaway

Anita and John Comander

Wiede and Jon Cutshall

Jana and Jeff Galt

Cally and Will Kothmann

Holly and Philip Miller

Nancy Moorman

Meredith K. Morrill

Londi Paige

Allison and Alan Pyle

Meagan and Adam Shadfan

Jordan Vexler and Albert Shannon

Weston Miller and Ryan Theuninck

Bette and Jack Vexler

Robin and Jason Warman

Stephanie and Christopher Wilde

Susan Wilkins-Geery

Patrick Williamson

Lantana Circle

$1,000

Lyn and Omar Akhil

Claire and John Alexander

Molly and Michael Amini

Mary Arno

Kennedy Hatfield Asel and Aaron Asel

Margie and Mote Baird

Katie and Tyson Becker

John Binkley †

Lisa and Tim Blonkvist

Emily Knapp and James Book

Elise and Craig Boyan

Katherine and Walter Brown

Lauren and John Browning

Sabina Carr

Rea Ferandez and Justin Chung

Barbara Clark

Sarah and Jon Cochran

Penelope Speier and Sonny Collins

Charlotte A. Creamer

Mary Anne and Tony Crosby

Jaleh Daie

Karen Dawson

Joane and James Drought

Ellie and Chuck Du Val

Joel K. Erben

Fern Lee Finck

Mary and Lewis Fisher

Mariana Munante and Bill Fisher

Burkley and Jonny Fitzsimons

Blair and Joseph Fitzsimons

Mercedes and Philip Fletcher

Caroline A. Forgason

Kay Fitch and Katie Free

Lou Celia and Don Frost

Magdalena and Raúl Gaona

Jill and Carlos Garcia

Toni and Richard Goldsmith

Cheryl and Steven Green

Karen and Jim Greenwood

Emory and Frederic Hamilton

Melinda McFarland and Reid Hartson

Allison and Jaimie Hayne

Mary and William Henrich

Karen J. Hixon

Janet and Robert Holliday

Laura Cheng and Dean Hull

Lily and Jeffrey Johnson

Estee and Luke Kellogg

Susan and John Kerr

Leigh Ann and Greg King

Karen and Gary Kittrell

Bonnie and John Korbell

Susan and William Lane

Catherine and Richard Lange

Marina Gonzales and Gerald Lee

Carrie Gray and Christopher Lefelhocz

Kelsey Waters and Bryan Litchford

Elizabeth and Madison Marceau

Susan Martin

Diana I. Martinez

Marie and Ryan Mays

Celeste and William McEntire

Joe and Jane McFarlane

Cora and Wally McGowan

Nicola and Michael McLaughlin

Vicki McLaughlin

Claire and Easton McNab

Connie and Sandy McNab

Janet Montagne

Trudy and Ed Moore

Katarzyna and Michael Morchat

Barbara and Jeff Moss

Sydney and Gregg Muenster

Leslie Negley

Ann and Chico Newman

Elaine Olivier

Susanna Morrow and Ross Olsaver

Jana Orsinger and Bill Orr

Elena and Luis Oseguera

Nancy Ruth Otto

Suzanne and Rusty Palmer

Margaret and Ryan Pape

Anne and Charles Parrish

Susan Mooberry and Gregory Patterson

Carol and Kirk Patterson

Eleanor and Scott Petty

Candace Andrews and Uwe Pontius

Julianne and Michael Posey

Mary Quandt

Corinna and JB Richter

Anne and Jeff Rochelle

Heather and Randy Rodgers

Jan Jarboe Russell and Lewis Russell Jr.

William Scanlan, Jr.

Jenny and Rick Schimpff

Lyn and Peter C. Selig

Ann and Rick Shaw

Debi Sovereign

Paula and Herb Stumberg

James Letchworth and Kirk Swanson

Jennifer and Lloyd Tannenbaum

Donald Test

Stephan and Bonnie Tompsett

Alisa and John Travis

Kimberly and Matthew Traxinger

Katherine and Kristopher Trumble

Lisa Uhl

Elky and Mark Van Es

Matthew Ballard and Jacob Vasquez

Claire and George Vaughan

Suzanne and Dick Wade

Franze and Chuck Wall

Ann B. Watson

Roberta Churchin and Bob Webster

Shari Mao and Erik Weitzel

Julie and Warren Wilkinson

Tommy Wirth

Ann and Forrest Word

Julie and Peter Zacher

For more information, about Perennials, visit: SABOT.ORG/ SUPPORT/GIVING- CIRCLES

LISA CORBETT,

JAMI JONES,