Views
from the Sunny Hill
Sonnenberg Gardens & Mansion State Historic Park
FALL 2013
Reflections from the Boardroom By Dale Stell, President
As we wrap up another successful year at Sonnenberg, I’m reminded of how far we’ve come in the last eight years—the improvements that have been made to facilities and grounds are remarkable. We are so thankful: to our many volunteers who run events, fund raise, and maintain our gardens and buildings; to David Hutchings, Executive Director of Sonnenberg, under whose leadership we’ve flourished; to our staff, although tiny in numbers, who are able to accomplish huge things; and to our Board of Directors who guide the “ship” we call Sonnenberg. Congratulations and thank you to all. Still, with all the progress we’ve made there is a never ending list of projects to do. The support of our community is essential to continue to move Sonnenberg forward. As the traditional season of giving approaches, please consider a gift to Sonnenberg. Large or small, all gifts are greatly appreciated and always are put to good use. While on the subject of gifts, we all have that hard to buy for person on our holiday list. Why not give them a year’s worth of enjoyment by way of a membership at Sonnenberg. It is an unusual gift that they can enjoy over and over and they will think of you each time they use the membership card. And please remember that our mansion, carriage house, and wine tasting room are all available to hold your office or family gathering this holiday season. CONTINUED ON PAGE 3
Share Your Love for Sonnenberg
by Diana Palotas, Development Manager
When Pat Quist downsized from her home to an apartment, she didn’t need to give up her love for gardening. Pat knew she could help many things grow at Sonnenberg Gardens & Mansion, one of the most beautiful collections of formal gardens in the United States. Pat volunteers to dig in the dirt each week. “It’s been seven years since I retired and I’m now part of a nice group that meets at Sonnenberg. This is my gardening fix.” Pat says with a smile. Pat is one of the hundreds of volunteers who share their love for Sonnenberg through their time, talents or financial support. Because when you give, more than flowers bloom at this amazing destination. More people with developmental disabilities attend the summer camp just for them. More kids benefit from the Children’s Pat Quist, one of the many dedicated volLearning Path and Garden Scavenger Hunt that unteers that care for the gardens winds through the park. More couples celebrate the wedding of their dreams here. More tourists choose Sonnenberg and enjoy the respite that was the Thompson’s Summer Home.
“Beautiful gardens and stately home” Pittsburgh, PA
“Extraordinary adventure” Scottsville, NY
“Lovely” San Diego, CA
“Put this on your to do list!” Doylestown, PA
Many travelers share their love for Sonnenberg in words on our Facebook Page or TripAdvisor.com. We’re inviting you to also Share Your Love for Sonnenberg with us and the world! We’re kicking off our new fund raising and awareness campaign and we’d like to hear from you. Share your feelings about the gardens or mansion on our Facebook page at http://goo.gl/GIsa4t or email them to us for possible inclusion on our website at development@ sonnenberg.org. Give your time, talent or financial support and Share Your Love for Sonnenberg in 2014. Although we operate as a New York State Park, we are a non-profit organization. Without your help, it doesn’t get done. We rely on
Open Daily May 1 - 25 & September 2 - October 31 9:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. May 26 - September 1 9:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.
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onnenberg Gardens & Mansion State Historic Park