SUMMER 2021 A QUARTERLY MAGAZINE FOR - MEMBERS OF DENVER BOTANIC GARDENS
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SUMMER 2021 A QUARTERLY MAGAZINE FOR MEMBERS OF DENVER BOTANIC GARDENS
This summer, perhaps and with fingers crossed,
we can take a deep breath and just relax a bit.
The past decade, by which I mean the last 12 months,
has been grueling. At all four of our locations, the ISSUE 3, 2021
Gardens is primed to offer more than quiet healing Denver Botanic Gardens
experiences, which have been critical to countless, and 1007 York St., Denver, CO 80206
let loose true joy.
Pre-purchased tickets and advance member passes only.
Joy is back this summer as spring rain and snow have Through Sept. 6, 9 a.m. – 9 p.m., last admission 8 p.m.
prepped a parched land for a verdant eruption of
Sept. 7-26, 9 a.m. – 8 p.m., last admission 7 p.m.
life. Joy is back in the form of children cavorting in
Mordecai Children’s Garden and rolling down the Member Mornings, through September 5, Saturdays
slopes of the UMB Bank Amphitheater. and Sundays, 8-9 a.m.
The amount of birdsong is enthralling, as is the return of Denver Botanic Gardens Chatfield Farms
butterflies and bees. 8500 West Deer Creek Canyon Rd., Littleton, CO 80128
Pre-purchased tickets and advance member passes only.
It is going to take some time for many to feel fully
comfortable, and we all get it. The cloud of menace has
Contents 9 a.m. – 5 p.m., last admission 4 p.m.
weighed heavily on us all. That’s why we can all help Chatfield Farms ......... 2-3 Contact Us
everyone we encounter by demonstrating simple respect,
Center for Global General Information: 720-865-3500
giving people some space whenever they need it. It is
something I see every day as groups wander, some with Initiatives .................. 4-5 Class Registration: 720-865-3580
masks on, others without. We are living in a time of Donations: 720-865-3528
miracles, and few could have predicted during the dark Science .................... 6-7 Gift Shop: 720-865-3595
days of shutdowns that we would be emerging into such Membership Services: 720-865-3525
better days now. Thank goodness for scientists and the Horticulture Outreach .. 8-9
Private Events: 720-865-3551
medical community for shepherding our rebound.
Special Events ........... 10-11 Volunteering: 720-865-3609
Thanks too for the donors, volunteers and members Helen Fowler Library: 720-865-3570
who keep Denver Botanic Gardens vital and vibrant. The Gardens App ....... 12
You have seen us through a challenge, and we are all Gardening Help from Colorado Master Gardeners
Featured Garden ....... 13
awash in gratitude.
Kathryn Kalmbach Herbarium
Two words in our mission statement really stand out Programs at a Glance ... 14-15
– delight and enlightenment. With four sites, deep Sam Mitchel Herbarium of Fungi
levels of research and dynamic, inspiring programs,
Exhibitions, Art and
the enlightenment part is constant. And now, we Learning Engagement ... 16-18 Editor: Tiffany Coleman
aim to delight all people we attract with a reopened Graphic Designer: Nick Elias
Mordecai Children’s Garden, Science Pyramid and
Tours ........................ 19 Photographer: Scott Dressel-Martin
Boettcher Memorial Tropical Conservatory. We are Education ................. 20 The mission of Denver Botanic Gardens is to connect
thrilled by the response to the new art galleries in the
people with plants, especially plants from the Rocky
Freyer – Newman Center where visitors can also take in Family Corner ............ 21 Mountain region and similar regions around the world,
a documentary movie in the Sturm Family Auditorium.
Classes are back. The new Helen Fowler Library is Development ............. 22-23 providing delight and enlightenment to everyone.
finally open. And events like Evenings al Fresco and
Lavender Festival will provide plenty of fun times. The Shop at the
Gardens ................... 23
Deep breath. Big smiles. We are ready for a summer
of joy. Trustees .................... 24
The Gardens is grateful for funds from
Onward.
Donor List ................. 24 the Scientific & Cultural Facilities
District (SCFD), which enable us to
Brian Vogt expand services and enhance the
Denver Botanic Gardens CEO Tributes .................... 25 quality of our programs and exhibits.
CHATFIELD FARMS
REGENERATIVE AGRICULTURE
production from smaller acreage, plus it soil moisture and organic matter content. The
helps crowd out weeds and shade the soil to process involves tilling very shallow (less than
preserve moisture. 2 inches) with a power harrow, then allowing
the first flush of weeds to germinate. The plot
By Larry Vickerman, Director of Chatfield Farms Other traditional methods employed at the is then covered with large silage tarps to let
farm are the use of flower strips next to crops the weeds die underneath due to a lack of
At Denver Botanic Gardens Chatfield Farms, Today at Chatfield Farms, we approach to attract pollinators and beneficial insects sunlight. At the same time, more weed seeds
we currently grow over 25 different crops farming with a combination of old and new that help keep pest species in check. Planting are germinating due to the warm, moist
and 80 different varieties of these crops ways to overcome challenges of growing. windbreaks along field edges keeps plants environment under the tarp and will die due
for the Community Supporting Agriculture Tried and true old methods include composting protected from drying winds. to lack of light as well. When the tarps are
Program. For the past five years, we have farm fields and using cover crops to enhance Thanks to new technology, we are utilizing removed after three weeks, the resulting seed
been steadily working to make our vegetable fertility and soil structure. During the growing bed is relatively weed free and ready for
extensive drip irrigation and low-water-
and fruit growing more sustainable, applying season, we use fish emulsion or alfalfa-based seeding or transplants.
use sprinkler heads that maximize water
regenerative agriculture practices. This term— fertilizers to keep plants healthy and growing.
conservation. Floating row covers allow early By using both old and new methodology, we
regenerative agriculture—has become part Planting in dense blocks allows more
planting and protection from frost, and they help forge a new path forward in agriculture
of the agriculture vernacular—but what does
it really mean? On one hand, regenerative help prevent pests from getting to vegetables. that works more with the environment and
practices in agriculture harken back to the minimizes the impact on it.
We also employ silage tarps and minimal
days before fertilizers and pesticides were tillage to enhance weed control and preserve
available to farmers. Soil fertility had to
be maintained by cover crops and manure
applied to fields.
2 | SUMMER 2021 botanicgardens.org | 3
CENTER FOR GLOBAL
INITIATIVES
CENTER FOR GLOBAL INITIATIVES
A Strategy to
PROTECT ALPINE PLANTS
By Jennifer Neale, Ph.D., Director of Research & Conservation
Remote and inhospitable, the alpine ecosystem Plant Conservation, lays out a comprehensive
covers just 15 percent of the earth’s land framework for documenting and conserving
surface, and 9 percent of North American alpine plants and their habitats.
land surface. It contains life that has found a
way to survive despite the harsh conditions
of cold temperatures and high winds. As the OUR OBJECTIVES:
climate warms, the effect of that warming is
likely to be amplified at higher latitudes and • To understand and document alpine
elevations. In these new warmer and drier plant diversity
climates, alpine plants will be left vulnerable. • To conserve alpine plants both
Botanic gardens are compelled—and uniquely in situ and ex situ
qualified—to observe and monitor changes • To promote an understanding
within these ecosystems. We can identify of the alpine and the protection
which areas are most likely to thrive with efforts needed to conserve these
protection and pour our efforts into having the fragile systems
greatest impact possible.
• To expand our capacity
One way to do this is through conservation to take action
strategies, which provide a roadmap to ensure
the protection of specific taxa for posterity. All
in situ and ex situ conservation work across The four objectives are further broken down
the Gardens contributes to the targets outlined into 12 targets with achievable deadlines and
in the Global Strategy for Plant Conservation. can be read in the full strategy.
Additionally, in 2016 and 2017, we helped
develop the Global Conservation Strategy for We are already taking action toward our
Coffee Genetic Resources. targets, and our map of alpine habitats and
plants known to grow in those areas is nearly
Born out of a continental desire to protect complete. We are collecting plants for the
our rarest habitats, we have published the herbarium in under-documented areas and
North American Botanic Garden Strategy for collecting seed for ex situ conservation. While
Alpine Plant Conservation in collaboration we feel we are making good progress, we
with the Betty Ford Alpine Gardens in Vail, need to expand our network and capacity
Colorado. The strategy, modeled after the to enact large-scale efforts that will protect
Global Strategy for Plant Conservation and the the alpine and the plants that call our
North American Botanic Garden Strategy for mountaintops home.
Top and bottom photos by Emily Griffoul, Conservation Scientist, Betty Ford Alpine Gardens.
Center photo by Mike Kintgen, Curator of Alpine Collections, Denver Botanic Gardens.
4 | SUMMER 2021 botanicgardens.org | 5
PUTTING OUR
SCIENCE The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) is
responsible for protecting and managing species that
are considered threatened or endangered under the
Endangered Species Act (ESA). The ESA is America’s
SCIENCE TO WORK
strongest conservation law. The goal of listing these
species under the ESA is to improve their conditions
so that their population numbers can increase or
stabilize and they can ultimately be delisted. To
understand how to effectively manage listed species
to Support Federal Protection of and when their numbers are large enough to delist,
we must first have sufficient data on the species and
Endangered Species their populations. The FWS conducts Species Status
Assessments to use the best available data to make
By Rebecca Hufft, Ph.D., Associate Director of Applied Conservation and Michelle DePrenger-Levin, informed decisions about listed species.
Research Associate, Population Biology
These assessments bring together experts to review
existing data to evaluate the current condition of
a species and whether it is likely to be resilient
As scientists at a botanic garden, we are motivated to investigate and explain
and persist into the future. For plants, this means
biodiversity patterns and processes. Two of our main objectives are to conduct
providing information on population size, genetic
scientific research and be a resource of scientific expertise related to biodiversity.
diversity and important species-specific life history
One of the ways we can directly impact plant conservation is to communicate our traits, like survival and germination rates under
research and share our expertise with federal agencies for use in management different conditions. Gathering these types of data
decisions about threatened and endangered species. on multiple species is time- and resource-intensive.
The FWS relies on partners to help them collect and
review the large amount of data needed to manage
all the 1,666 species currently listed under the ESA
(including 943 plants).
Scientists at the Gardens support the FWS by
collecting and providing data on listed plant
species. We conduct genetic diversity assessments
to understand connectivity among populations and
standing genetic diversity that can indicate adaptive
potential (especially important under changing
climate and land use conditions). We conduct long-
term monitoring studies to understand population
trends and species responses to environmental
variation. We conduct habitat assessments and
floristic inventories to understand specific habitat
associations for rare species. Most importantly, we
share all this information with our federal partners
and participate in Species Status Assessments to
provide our expertise on the status, needs and threats
of our most imperiled plant species. Collecting data
on rare plants to support listing decisions under the
ESA is one of the best ways the Gardens can impact
rare plant conservation.
6 | SUMMER 2021 botanicgardens.org | 7
HORTICULTURE OUTREACH At Denver Botanic Gardens, we have a huge presence beyond our garden sites:
• Our Horticulture Outreach program is helping municipalities create low-water-use
gardens. We are also providing design assistance for several commercial, public
BEYOND THE
and community projects. In 2020, we worked with 12 Colorado municipalities,
16 for- and nonprofit organizations and three cultural organizations.
• To address food insecurity issues in Denver, we have a partnership with Denver
Housing Authority in the Mariposa and Sun Valley neighborhoods. We have
GARDEN WALLS
created urban food gardens, engaging these communities to produce food locally
that is then offered through farm stands. In 2020, between the two locations,
we harvested approximately 7,500 lbs. of produce, of which 5,800 lbs. were
distributed through farm stands, and 1,700 lbs. were donated to community
organizations.
By Sarada Krishnan, Ph.D., Director of Horticulture and Center for Global Initiatives • Our Therapeutic Horticulture program reaches underserved audiences.
In addition to programs offered onsite, we have several programs we take out
to the community. The Winter Green program connects participants in residential
In a 2016 paper I co-authored with my colleague Dr. Ari Novy titled “The Role care with plants to engage the senses and provide social enrichment during the
of Botanic Gardens in the 21st Century” (Krishnan and Novy, 2016), winter months. Organizations that we work with include Rocky Mountain Cancer
we emphasize the role played by botanic gardens in addressing global issues Centers, Mental Health Center of Denver, Anchor Center for Blind Children, Craig
such as climate change, food security, biodiversity conservation, environmental Hospital, Rocky Mountain Easterseals Camp, Denver Children’s Advocacy Center,
education, sustainability and human well-being. To advance these goals, Autism Society, Alzheimer’s Association SPARK! programming and others.
gardens need to extend their programming beyond their walls by addressing In addition to being important aesthetic, cultural and scientific establishments, botanic
societal issues that can lead to positive impacts within communities. gardens also contribute to the well-being of our society by offering diverse programs.
8 | SUMMER 2021 botanicgardens.org | 9
SPECIAL EVENTS
Lavender Festival
at Chatfield Farms
Dining on the Farm Saturday, July 17, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
$7-$13 Friday, August 27
at Chatfield Farms More than 2,000 lavender plants set the
scene for this family-friendly celebration.
5:30-9:30 p.m.
various dates, see website Shop lavender products made by local
$150 per person growers and artisans; enjoy free tours,
demonstrations and live music; free barrel
What better way to enjoy the warm
train rides for kids; food, dessert and drink
weather than with hand-crafted cocktails,
vendors; educational programs on lavender
extraordinary food and the company of
and related topics are available for an
friends? Join us for a special dinner al fresco
additional charge and include admission to
on a historical homestead and working Denver Botanic Gardens invites you to join us for the
Lavender Festival. Tickets must be purchased
farm tucked against the foothills of the reimagined Fête des Fleurs, the Gardens’ 37th annual
in advance. GET TICKETS
Rocky Mountains. Start with cocktail hour fundraising gala, taking place throughout the 24-acre
(specialty cocktail and mocktail available) oasis of the York Street location. More than 500 guests
with delightful amuse-bouche and live music. are anticipated, including distinguished business and
Then enjoy a seated dinner at a table just for community leaders.
your party. Finish with dessert and coffee.
Begin your evening with a traveling cocktail hour
GET TICKETS
through various internationally themed gardens,
including the Japanese Bill Hosokawa Bonsai Pavilion,
French Le Potager and South African Plaza.
Select from one of seven dining locations, each with its
Fall Plant & Bulb own unique atmosphere, special music and plated or
picnic dining experience.
Sale at York Street Corn Maze The funds raised at the Fête contribute to Denver
Botanic Gardens’ core programs, such as children’s
Preview Party, Thursday, Sept. 23,
4:30-7 p.m., see website for tickets at Chatfield Farms education, public outreach, horticulture, research and
conservation.
Friday and Saturday, Sept. 24 & 25, Fridays – Sundays, Sept. 17 – Oct. 31 Reserve your table or picnic today!
9 a.m. – 6 p.m., free admission 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Member-Only Hour: 8-9 a.m., Friday $10-$15
The best spring gardens start during the fall! Get lost in the 7-acre Corn Maze! This year
Shop in person from a large selection of fall features a new design, plus the mini maze
VOLUNTEER
bulbs and Grown at the Gardens perennials. and barrel train rides for kids. Enjoy funnel
Take home beautiful horticulture-curated bulb cakes, corndogs, kettle corn and freshly
bag designs, large custom seed mixes and squeezed lemonade. NEW! You’ve navigated
a wide variety of standard and specialty the maze, now see if you can make it out As we gear up for the summer season, now is a
bulbs. Engage with our horticulturists of the Escape Room! The clock is ticking perfect time to consider joining us as a volunteer!
onsite to ask all your questions and create down—can you solve the puzzle and get Get more information on the Gardens’ volunteer
a spectacular planting plan for fall. See out? Tickets must be purchased in advance. program and upcoming special event opportunities
website for more details. GET TICKETS or email us at vol@botanicgardens.org.
10 | SUMMER 2021 botanicgardens.org | 11
Get to Know FEATURED GARDEN
THE GARDENS APP A GARDEN FOR THE
SENSES
By Casey Hill, Associate Director of Membership, Visitor and Volunteer Services
Take a deep dive into all the Gardens has to offer through the new Denver Botanic Gardens By Angie Andrade, Manager of Therapeutic
mobile app. Our free app is designed to enhance your experience while at the Gardens. You’ll Horticulture Programs
find detailed information on our garden and plant collections along with access to interesting
insights into the art, science and educational programming we offer. Use the app for easy access
to tickets and membership cards. Utilize the GPS-enabled map to find your favorite gardens at
York Street and Chatfield Farms. The mobile app features five separate sections:
Our senses allow us to
HOME – Set your preferred language in understand the world around
English or Spanish, select York Street or us. By sight, smell, touch, taste and
Chatfield Farms and purchase tickets.
hearing we can intimately experience
our surroundings every day. When we enter
MAP – View a map of York Street or a garden, our senses come alive with the scent
Chatfield Farms. Easily find your favorite of fresh blooms, the sound of the birds cheerfully
gardens through GPS-enabled tracking. Icons singing and the sight of soothing plant textures and
on the map are interactive and bring up a color combinations.
short description of each location.
In the Sensory Garden you are invited and encouraged
to explore your senses by interacting directly with the
GARDENS – Explore the beautiful and ever- plants and the garden around you. The plants of this
widening diversity of plants from all corners garden are intentionally chosen for their ability to evoke
of the world. View a description of each the senses. For example, Mimosa pudica, or sensitive
garden and use the “Take me there” function
plant, folds its leaves right before your eyes when touched.
to find a specific garden on the map.
Pelargonium tomentosum, or peppermint geranium, has the
softest leaves and when rubbed releases the distinct smell of
DISCOVER – Get information about new fresh peppermint. Carex caryophyllea ‘Beatlemania’ not only
art exhibitions, science research and has a great cultivar name but its common name, mop head
educational programs. Learn more about sedge, perfectly describes its hair-like appearance. Melissa
current artists on display in the Freyer – officinalis, lemon balm, is an old-fashioned herb that has
Newman Center, including special artist talk the smell of citrus blooms and can be used to brew
videos from the artists themselves. a refreshing summer tea. The annual, Impatiens
balsamina, or touch-me-not, has seed heads that
ACCOUNT – Want to eliminate paper explode between your fingers when touched at the
and plastic waste? Access your digital perfect moment.
membership cards and tickets for easy and
The plant world is amazing, and the Sensory
expedited entry to the Gardens.
Garden highlights some of the softest, strangest and
most fragrant plants in the Gardens. Make sure to
Download the app today and find out visit the Sensory Garden this summer and get lost in
all the Gardens has to offer! the sights, sounds, textures and scents.
12 | SUMMER 2021 botanicgardens.org | 13
Trips & Travel
PROGRAMS AT A GLANCE Click the links
to learn more.
Botanical Wonders
of Brazil’s Estrada Royal
Denveroffers
The Gardens Botanic Gardens
a range offers a range
of programming forofallprogramming
ages, as wellfor
and online learning. Click the links below to learn more.
asall ages, asprograms
certificate well as certificate
and onlineprograms
learning. October 3-11
This trip to Brazil offers a rich cultural
Children and
and botanical experience, exploring
17th-19th century architecture, local
Family Programs cuisine, natural history, art, culture
and landscapes.
Family programs engage children and
their grownups to learn about the natural Día de los Muertos
world, discover the importance of plants
and spark creativity. in Oaxaca
October 28 – November 3
This eight-day journey takes you
to Mexico City, Puebla and Oaxaca,
a unique opportunity to explore
the rich history and long-standing
traditions of this beautiful celebration.
Helen Fowler Library
Classes & Workshops The library is now open on select days.
Choose from workshops, lectures, fitness Stop in to see our beautiful new space,
and wellness, photography, get research assistance, check out items
gardening and more. Scroll or (if you’re a Gardens member)
search by category or date. or just say hello.
14 | SUMMER 2021 botanicgardens.org | 15
EXHIBITIONS, ART AND LEARNING ENGAGEMENT
ONLINE & IN-PERSON
Artist Talk: Yoshitomo Saito
August 5, 6 p.m.
Join artist Yoshitomo Saito, online or in-person
to learn more about the artist and his methods
as he discusses the inspirations behind his
bronze forms.
See related tours on page 19.
Yoshitomo Saito, Cheikh Lo, 2020, Bronze.
Of Sky and Ground: Yoshitomo Saito
July 24 – November 28
Yoshitomo Saito’s cast bronze works capture and celebrate the elegant lines and subtle details
of nature, reinterpreting organic forms and encouraging contemplation.
This exhibition is organized in collaboration with William Havu Gallery, Denver.
ONLINE & IN-PERSON
Michael Campbell, Helianthus annuus, 2010, colored pencil. Marguerite (Chrysanthemum frutescens) from FlorDalí, 1968,
Artist Talk:
photolithograph with original engraved remarque and color.
Collection of The Dalí Museum, St. Petersburg, FL (USA) 2021,
Ana María Hernando
Golden Opportunity: Sept. 18, 1 p.m.
© Salvador Dalí Fundació Gala-Salvador Dalí (ARS), 2021.
Botanical Illustration
Join artist Ana María
Salvador Dalí: Hernando, either online
or in-person, as she
Through August 15
From daffodils to daisies, discover a world
Gardens of the Mind discusses the creation of
artworks featured in Fervor.
of yellow growing all around you through Through August 22
illustrations created by students and faculty
Experience rarely seen fanciful color
of Denver Botanic Gardens’ School
lithographs mixing flora with the artist’s Yoshitomo Saito, Cheikh Lo, 2020, Bronze.
of Botanical Art & Illustration (SBAI).
signature motifs, underscoring Dalí’s
Freyer – Newman Center exhibitions are presented by
infatuation with his native Catalonian
landscape and the intriguing images
Fervor: Ana María Hernando
of surrealism. September 11, 2021 – January 2, 2022
This exhibition is organized in partnership with Permeated by the artist’s love of plants, flowers and the spirit of nature, Fervor features works
Marie Selby Botanical Gardens (Sarasota, FL) including the installation Ėcoutons | Eschuchemos | Let’s Listen, created in response to bird
and The Dalí Museum (St. Petersburg, FL). sounds submitted by more than 200 people across the globe.
16 | SUMMER 2021 botanicgardens.org | 17EXHIBITIONS, ART AND LEARNING ENGAGEMENT
Seeing
the
Invisible
TOURS
September 2021 GUIDED TOURS AT YORK STREET PRIVATE TOURS AT YORK STREET
Experience OR CHATFIELD FARMS
an exhibition 松風園 Shofu-en Japanese (Virtual Options Available Too!)
of contemporary
artworks existing only
Garden Looking for a special experience for your
in augmented reality September 8 and October 6, 10 a.m. group of 5 or more? Schedule a private guided
(AR). Co-curated Meander through the Japanese Garden with in-person tour at York Street or at Chatfield
by Hadas Maor and Curator Ebi Akiyoshi Kondo as your guide. Farms or an online tour of the Boettcher
Tal Michael Haring, $19, $15 member (includes admission) Memorial Tropical Conservatory at least three
Detail, Sigalit Landau, Salt Stalagmite #1 (Three Bridges), 2021.
Seeing the Invisible weeks in advance. For more information,
contact tours@botanicgardens.org.
features virtual works
by more than a dozen international artists.
Oscar Becerra Mora, Xólotl: Dios perro (dog deity), 2013, Of Sky and Ground Exhibition
papier-mâché and cardboard. © Oscar Becerra Mora. Docent-led: $14, $6 student (includes admission)
July 30 & September 3, 5:30 p.m.
The exhibition is organized by the Jerusalem Staff-led: $17, $6 student (includes admission)
Botanical Gardens and Outset Contemporary Art August 5, September 23 and Online tours: Prices vary
Fund and opens simultaneously at 11 gardens October 14, 9:15 a.m.
across six countries. The project has been made
possible in partnership with The Jerusalem
October 1 & November 12, 3 p.m. GUIDED TOURS AT PLAINS
Foundation. Join a docent on an indoor-outdoor exploration CONSERVATION CENTER
of Yoshitomo Saito’s exhibition Of Sky and
Check website for updates. Ground and the Japanese Garden. Wagon Tour
$19, $15 member (includes admission)
Select Saturdays
Alebrije: Midsummer Nights
Get to know the prairie in a whole new way.
Xólotl: Dios perro
On our ride across the plains, participants
July 5 and 6, 6 p.m. watch for wildlife beneath the great stretching
Enjoy a Shakespeare-inspired summer stroll sky while learning about the short grass
October 2 – November 7, 2021 in the Gardens infused with poetry and plants. prairie ecosystem.
In partnership with the Mexican Cultural Center, $16, $12 member (includes admission) $10 per participant
Denver Botanic Gardens hosts the monumental
sculpture Xólotl: Dios perro (Xólotl: dog deity)
by contemporary Mexican artist Oscar Becerra-
Seasonal Discoveries Sunset Wagon Tour
Mora. Standing nearly 15 feet tall, the sculpture September 4, 12 and 18, 2 p.m. Select Friday evenings
depicts an alebrije—a fantastical hybrid Embrace the exuberance of summer’s end. Get to know the prairie in a whole new way.
creature from Mexican folklore, featuring the Enjoy a docent-led tour of gardens filled with Wagon rides are scheduled to coincide
tail, wings, horns and claws from a variety late summer blooms such as blanket flowers with the spectacular sunsets at the Plains
of animals. Xólotl: Dios Perro depicts the and sages. Conservation Center.
Aztec deity Xólotl, the brother of Quetzalcóatl, $16, $12 member (includes admission) $10 per participant
charged with guarding the sun as it passed
through the underworld. For more information or to register, visit the tours web page or call 720-865-3500.
18 | SUMMER 2021 botanicgardens.org | 19EDUCATION FAMILY CORNER
LANGUAGE
DIVERSITY & ANNUAL SUMMIT
COLLABORATION Fosters Connection with Nature
a Dynamic Duo By Chelsey Bardgett, Family & Children’s Program Instructor
By Esperanza Rodriguez, Bilingual Program Instructor in Education In the world of young learners, there is so through outdoor play. Research shows us
much to discover! Here at the Gardens, when children spend time outdoors, healthier
Mi nombre es Esperanza Rodríguez our locations, all of which are now offered
explorations in nature through play provide lifestyles are established. By providing
y soy la Instructora Bilingüe en los with Spanish instruction. It is so rewarding to
¡Hola! Jardines Botanicos de Denver. see the smile on a child’s face or watch their
our brains with sensory input and lead educators hands-on practice with the Gardens,
to learning, providing opportunities for the educators can return to their classrooms
eyes light up when I pronounce their name
My name is Esperanza Rodriguez, children of all ages with knowledge to share
Hello! and I am the bilingual program
correctly in Spanish. It is an adventure in itself
and families, while with our youngest learners.
to deliver bilingual curriculum that ranges from
instructor at the Gardens. guiding our educators “It left me feeling positive and It is an opportunity for us,
a micro lens, for instance the magic of each wit h great ideas to enhance a
from the classroom. the Gardens’ instructors,
Denver Botanic Gardens has long cherished plant part function, and in a subsequent lesson young person’s mind and psyche
Denver Botanic Gardens . to share what works in
a goal to uplift and provide access to its expand the lens to a macro system like the Wh at an
has partnered with inspiration considering our Seedlings classes and
programs for a diverse language community. analysis of a prairie or rainforest ecosystem. the cur ren t climate we live in. This
the National Wildlife other family programs.
As the bilingual program instructor (Spanish- giv es me gli mmers of hope. I left
My language proficiency and fluency in Federation’s Early
English) at the Gardens, I help carry the torch sm ilin g, thi nk ing about how much Long term, the gain of
both English and Spanish grants flexibility Childhood Health
of this mission. This work would be obsolete we wil l change so many young early childhood educators
to my role and the mission of the Gardens. Outdoors (ECHO)
without the important collaboration of fellow people’s lives.” growing their confidence
In addition to offering school programs in program to host an
departments and professionals. Our teamwork Summit Participant in interacting with nature
Spanish, our bilingual language services annual Summit that
and collaboration expand our impact to is substantial. The results
have developed and evolved to include provides a living
bilingual learners, a community that is excited increase understanding
professional recordings, YouTube videos for backdrop for an
for all things related to the Gardens. I see that of scientific concepts and
multiple departments and Gardens events, and informational and
excitement and connection with young students observational awareness. It
on-the-spot translation for partners such as interactive exchange
during onsite programs when they talk about also creates more comfort
their grandparents’ gardens in Mexico, or the Colorado Ballet. These collaborations are of tools, resources and “We are thrilled to partner wit h when guiding children
the
when they recognize the same fruit trees and essential; my individual efforts would reach a hands-on learning. Denver Botanic Gardens to host in their own classrooms.
ing
other plants in the Boettcher Memorial Tropical standstill without the teamwork and interest of We’ve had the pleasure annual ECHO Summit. It’s inspir Sharing the outdoors with
other departments and co-workers. of engaging with over to obser ve educators coming
Conservatory that they are used to seeing or d our youngest learners
340 participants during together to learn, col laborate, an
grew up with in their native land. supports a lifetime love of
My ambition is that my role and services this time and look use the beauty of the gardens as
a foundation for reaffir ming the nature.
It is a privilege to reach such a large spectrum expand exponentially and fortify the Gardens’ forward to continue
of school groups. Our groups range from core value of diversity by prioritizing Spanish growing this event. importance of conect ing young Through partnerships of all
preK-12th grade, with participants from all language services. This mission that nurtures children to nature.” kinds, the staff at Denver
The ECHO Summit invites Ou tre ach
over the Denver metro area, plus occasional connection and belonging is evident in every
educators those working ECHO Education and Botanic Gardens keeps the
out-of-state and international virtual learners. student who feels seen when we communicate Manager Adrienne Sed lak love of learning growing
for and with children to
Since April 2020, the school programs team in their first language. It is a joy and privilege with all ages!
explore how to grow a
has developed nine new virtual programs and to be a facilitator of this language-diversity
connection with nature
revised eight onsite tour programs at three of mission.
20 | SUMMER 2021 botanicgardens.org | 21The Next Generation Embraces the Gardens: Gerald Schlessman, then owner and CEO
of the Greeley Gas Company, and his wife, Here for You
THE SCHLESSMAN FAMILY FOUNDATION
Florence, created the foundation in 1956 to
Personalized Help
support nonprofits and institutions that provide
Schedule an appointment for in-store
programs and assistance to Denver’s most
shopping with our assistance.
By Claire Lanier, Ph.D., Associate Director of Development
vulnerable residents. Since its inception, the
Schlessman Family Foundation has gifted Design
The Schlessman Family Foundation began the progress of the Center and helped the approximately $100 million to more than Redecorating your home or office?
impacting Denver Botanic Gardens in the organization complete a challenge grant 1,000 charities. Lee Schlessman, the son We’ll help select the right pieces to bring
1980s. Their first gift was Schlessman Plaza presented by the Sturm Family Foundation. of Gerald and Florence Schlessman, was your vision to reality.
in the Romantic Gardens, a popular site for the foundation’s president and chairman
To honor the family, the Center’s spectacular of the board for many years. He and his Online
weddings and events. Recently, the foundation atrium has been named the Schlessman Family wife, Dolores, have been frequent visitors to Products arrive all the time—see what’s
awarded a $1 million capital grant to the Atrium. This space is the focal point of the the Gardens, attending concerts, bringing new from the comfort of your home.
Gardens for the Freyer – Newman Center entire building. It welcomes visitors as the picnic dinners and witnessing the magic
for Science, Art and Education. The timing crossroads for the experiences the new facility of the Gardens through the eyes of their Gifting
of this gift made a significant difference in has to offer. grandchildren. Holidays, birthdays and anniversaries are
our specialty!
“ One of our little great-grandsons is
always eager to get [to the Gardens]
SHOP ONLINE NOW
time and time again. One thing he
has discovered is a small bridge that
seems to wiggle when he crosses it
... I know that people will be coming
to see the beautiful gardens and
special events for generations, and
we are so thankful to all of the folks
who tend them.
”
Dolores Schlessman, 2019
Today the children and grandchildren of
Lee and Dolores bring new energy and
community engagement to the foundation’s
board of directors.
22 | SUMMER 2021 botanicgardens.org | 23Honor/Memorial Contributors In memory of
Susan Dokken Hamersley
In memory of Debbie Walters
Jim Walters
Gifts Received 02/01/2021–04/30/2021 Carolyn and Bob Verna
In memory of Jody A. Waters
2021 Board Donors of Distinction IN MEMORY In memory of Carol E. Earle In memory of
Katie Ehrhart and John Ehrhart
Jane Snodgrass Houston
of Trustees Gifts Received 02/01/2021–04/30/2021 In Memory of Diana Abbey
Ms. Margot C. Thompson
The Denver Foundation In memory of
Kirsten Adkisson In memory of Brooke Ebel William M. and Jane S.
Citizens of the Scientific & Goldman Sachs Matching Gift Ms. Martha Rudolph and Andrea “Jodi” Westcott
OFFICERS Anne Jaffe Houston Family Fund
Cultural Facilities District Program Mr. Robert Brown In memory of Baby Amos John Westcott
Ms. Kathy Hodgson, Lauren and Bryan Amos In memory of Anita Farol William Houston
Board Chair American Online Giving Anne Gulick Mr. Richard Sabo and Shirley Monley In memory of Blair Hubbard
Foundation HALCYON, a hotel in Cherry In memory of
Mr. Michael Imhoff, Vice Chair Ms. Maureen Sabo
In memory of Emily Allen IN HONOR
Ms. Dawn Bookhardt, Eccles Family Charitable Creek Ardys L. Askelson
Schlessman Family Foundation
Secretary The Hass Family Franny Lou Fisher In memory of Jeanette Jilek In honor of Irene and Steve
Fund Catherine Hance Diane and William Schneider
Mr. Abe Rodriguez, Treasurer Sonja and John Jacobsen Barbara Flahive Banas
Robert Applegate and Kristi and Mike Heyka In memory of their two
Mr. Richard Clark, Immediate Catherine Schoelzel
Michelle Moorman Mr. and Mrs. F. A. Hills children In memory of Alicia Frontino In memory of Mabel Land Rebecca Langston
Past Chair Schoelzel Family Foundation Mikaila and Michael Carmen Osorio
Applegate Mr. and Mrs. A. Barry Ms. Cynthia Land In honor of Jan Baucum
Schwab Charitable Fund Barton-Gawryn
TERM TRUSTEES Ms. Kathryn Ashenfelter and Hirschfeld In memory of Rick Gildar In memory of Nicholas Lowe Julie C. Moore
The Fischer-Kellogg
Ms. Diane Barrett Bob Weyand Ms. Kittie Hook and In memory of Emily Marberry Beth Borosky
Charitable Gift Fund Lillie Mae Biderman In honor of Judy Lynn Prince
Rabbi Joe Black Mr. Carl Ashkin Mr. Charles Shelden In memory of Syd Glick In memory of Elsie Martin
Mr. Andrew Cullen
Mike and Kristi Heyka Ms. Lenore Shapiro Matthew Millburn and
Bank of America Dr. Dorothy Horrell and Ms. Jill Schwie Barry Sarver and Brenda Riske
Mr. Papa M. Dia Donor Advised Fund In memory of Kasia Parecki
Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Barrett Mr. Theodore Horrell In memory of Loren Golitz, MD In memory of Shana Morgan
Ms. Melissa Eliot Ms. Ellen Scott BJ Bittner and Ken Lee
Sen. Rhonda Fields Mikaila and Michael William Houston Deborah Golitz Megan Meckfessel In honor of Dr. Douglass Dalton
Michael and Mary Sue Bonnie Girardi-Marts and
Ms. Cory Freyer Barton-Gawryn Mr. and Mrs. Michael Imhoff In memory of Judy Grant Robin Scherrer Ms. Kerry Morimoto
Shannon Douglas Marts
Ms. Kathy Hodgson Beds n Biscuits Mr. and Mrs. John L. Lindsay W. Dodge In memory of Amy Moya
Ms. Dorothy Horrell Ruth Shindledecker In memory of Sue Boelter In honor of Katie Fox’s
Lindsay Blackman Jordan, Jr. Autumn Moya
Ms. Ding Wen Hsu Amy Skinner and Richard Bruce Boelter In memory of 80th Birthday
BNY Mellon Trust of Delaware Mr. and Mrs. Steve Kaeuper
Mr. Christopher Leach Brandon Arlene Chambers Carol Tierney Griesemer In memory of Karen Mueller Florrie Katchen
Bruce Boelter Kelli Lanphere – Re/Max Jessica Chambers Dennis Baldwin CHFA Team Kristi Budish
Ms. Wy Livingston Frank Smith Katchen Philanthropic Fund
Ms. Susan Morrice Dawn Bookhardt Cherry Creek Micah Chambers Ms. Leslie Baldwin Marilyn Hansen
Dr. Valerie A. Brackett and Diana Kinsey and Mike Kinsey Sparkjoy Foundation Amanda Farrara Mr. and Mrs. Dennis Cheroutes In honor of John and Ginny
Mrs. Judi Newman Annette Olson
Mr. Ron Otsuka Mr. Nikolaos D. Monoyios Susan Kroes St. Charles Town Company, Nancy Leonard Mrs. Sheila Cleworth
In memory of Nevell Razak Freyer
Mr. Scott Richards Christina Brickley Rebecca Langston LLC Philip Payton Jane and Tim Davis
Curt and Karen Rokala Mr. and Mrs. A. Barry
Ms. Yrma Rico Ms. Tricia Cassidy Mrs. Kelly Stava and Michelle Sadler The Denver Foundation
Christopher K. M. Leach and Hirschfeld
Mr. Abe Rodriguez Amanda Shindledecker Thomas and Beatrice Taplin In memory of Mary Reeves
Mary Chenoweth Chad Skrbina Mr. Mathew Stava
Mr. Brad Stevinson Ruth Shindledecker Fund Ms. Elizabeth Riggleman In honor of Martin and Susan
Ms. Marianne Sulser The Chill Foundation Erin Llaneza Sturm Family Foundation
In memory of Lindsay W. Dodge In memory of Donna Robinson Kozak
Mr. Charlie Woolley Mary Lee Chin and LPL Financial Joey Terriquez
Virginia R. Bowman Mrs. Bonnie Downing Elaine and Don Harris The Chicago Community
James Wagenlander Mabel Y. Hughes Charitable The Oxford Hotel Mr. and Mrs. Richard F. Finlon
Crestmoor Park Garden Club Samuel Swersky
MAYORAL TRUSTEES City of Lakewood Trust Mrs. Meagan Thomas and Foundation
Ellen Fisher
Ms. Nina Casanova Isabelle Clark Manos Soap Co. In memory of In memory of Dorrie Roman Kozak Family Fund
K. Jeter Thomas Mr. and Mrs. Robert K. Fuller
Ms. Catherine Hance Sylvia “Knobby” Brown Jane Scheff
Claire Cohen Marczyk Fine Foods Nell Thomas The Garden Club of Denver Scott and Tracy Kozak
Mr. Eliot Hoyt Kate Bermingham In memory of Sherry Rossiter
Pete and Marilyn Coors Marshall-Rodeno Associated Thomas and Diane Barrett Karen Gross
Ms. Caroline Schomp Carol Bonnar In honor of Keelan Lang
John and Kay Cowling Ms. Joanne Meras In memory of Judy Cassidy Ms. Cynthia Hinds
Foundation Caroline Christiano Kyle Mitchell
Craig Hospital Metropolitan State University Ms. Tricia Cassidy Mr. and Mrs. A. Barry
LIFE TRUSTEES Brandon and Debbie Tolany
Hirschfeld Lance Hostetter In honor of Marcia Licht
Mr. Edward P. Connors DALYTE/AiA Industries of Denver The Turner Children & In memory of Marc Chorney
Sheilagh Hudon and Richard and Gail Leonard
Mrs. Thomas E. Taplin Davis Graham & Stubbs, LLP Matthew Millburn and Martha Campbell Howard Licht and
Grandchildren William R. Hudon Pamela Loughran
The Denver Foundation Kasia Parecki In memory of Lynn Messler Vanessa Wilson
UMB Bank Jean Jones
TRUSTEES EMERITI The Sylvia Knobloch Brown Mrs. Janet R. Mordecai Mary Maxine Clark Richard Mobley
Mark Valerio Junior League of Denver, Inc. In honor of
Dr. Jandel Allen-Davis Fund National Philanthropic Trust Mick and Peggy Randall Scott Rossiter
Vanguard Charitable Andrew and Sherry Kenney Mary Lynne Lidstone
Ms. Dawn Bookhardt William M. and Jane S. The Jose Fund In memory of Jack Cohen
The Valerie Brackett and Sarah Krause In memory of David Shneer Mr. James Lidstone and
Ms. Mary Lee Chin Claire Cohen
Houston Family Fund Amanda Nguyen Joey Latterman and Jennifer, Siena, Berkeley, and
Mr. Richard Clark Nikolaos Monoyios Alaina Reilly
Mr. Al Gerace Ms. Beth Dickhaus and Ms. Jane O’Shaughnessy In memory of L. Alice Collister Fritz Hambly Joe Barg
Charitable Fund Ms. Carol B. Lay and John Lay David Lewin In honor of Patricia May
Ms. Jane O’Shaughnessy Mr. Darrin Sacks Carmen Osorio Mary Lou Anderson
Vine Street Pub & Brewery Anonymous Mr. and Mrs. Anthony Leuthold Rhyme & Associates
Ms. Cynthia Scott Fred Dierksmeier Mr. and Mrs. Thomas P. Owen In memory of
Mr. Harold Smethills Mr. Brian R. Vogt Hilltop-Crestmoor Gardeners Mark Levine
Valerie Dolejsi Dr. Kevin Patterson and Kathleen R. Smith In honor of
Mr. and Mrs. Marshall Garden Club Virginia Maloney Frank Smith
Pamela Dumonceau Ms. Ann Hovland
Darlene Holben Betsy Mangone Frederick C. McPeck
EX-OFFICIO TRUSTEES Dilek and Mathew Eccles The Perennial Garden Club Wallach
In memory of Michael Tebo
Ms. Christina Caulkins Jim Walters Rocky Mountain Association of Mr. and Mrs. Stephen S. Pat McPeck
Christy and Paul Eisman The Ponzio Family Marsters Susan Langley
(President, Denver Botanic Connie and Alex Wiegers Geologists Auxilary
Ms. Peggy Epand Marcie and Koger Propst In honor of Judi and Bob
Gardens Endowment, Inc.) The Skeeters Family Kathy McConahey In memory of Nobue Trafton
Estate of Lorraine Nichols Ms. Cynthia P. Reiners Ann and Barney Wilson Mr. and Mrs. John Meck Raeann and Larry Wielgot Newman
Ms. Happy Haynes Margaret S. Wallace
(Ex. Manager, Parks Higbie Eric and Cari Riedlin The Winthrop Foundation Susan and John Willson Sandra Morrison Mr. and Mrs. Paul Goss
In memory of Betsy and Lee
& Recreation Department) Estate of Sylvia Knobloch Jacey Riggs and Jimmy Brown Karen Woods Lisa and Rich Zavoda Robert and Judi Newman Turner In honor of Dave Robinson
Mrs. Meg Nichols Brown Mr. Daniel L. Ritchie Mr. and Mrs. Charles H. Patricia and Drew Peterson
In memory of Ana Cuellar The Turner Children & Kip and Mary Ann Travis
(President, Garden Club Mona Spitz
Ms. Tamara Fischer and Kristine and David Robertson Woolley II Ardent Mills HR Family Grandchildren
of Denver) Dr. and Mrs. Richard Talley
Mr. Jeff Kellogg Dina and Ken Robke Xcel Energy In honor of Alex Schwartz
Ms. Wendy Allen In memory of Daisy Davidson Mrs. Thomas E. Taplin In memory of Diane Van Horn
(President, Denver Botanic Mr. and Mrs. Robert K. Fuller Paula and David Roney Mr. and Mrs. Robert Annie Downs-Gabel Erin Llaneza Rachel Rauterkus
June E. Travis
Gardens Guild) Caleb and Sidney Gates Mr. and Mrs. Gerald B. Ross Zaparanick In honor of Sharon Summers
In memory of Liz Dierksmeier Mr. and Mrs. John Trigg In memory of Elsie Vomvas
Fred Dierksmeier Jon and Kathy Zeschin Mr. Emanuel Vomvas Sohne Van Selus
24 | SUMMER 2021 botanicgardens.org | 25Stay connected to the Gardens! Use #MyDBG botanicgardens.org
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