|
Dear Readers,
Spring has come to Ohio and one of the most spectacular celebrations
of the season was held in its capital city of Columbus at the
Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens on May 4, 2018. An
annual fundraiser supporting youth education programs, Les Chapeaux
dans le Jardin, also more colloquially known as “Hat Day” is an
event in which attendees, both ladies and gentlemen, don headwear
from elegant to festive … but before I tell you about the event, let
me say a few words about the venue.
With a history extending over 150 years, and a stated vision of “A
world that celebrates nature as essential to the human experience,”
this vision is achieved in abundance on 88 acres of land containing
exquisite gardens and through world-class exhibitions such as
“Blooms and Butterflies” to hands on classes for both adults and
children.
A crowning jewel on the property is the John F. Wolfe Palm House, an
exceptional example of late Victorian Era architecture with graceful
curving glass and classical elements. While the art of glass making
has been known to humans for thousands of years, the use of glass
for large scale building projects was yet nascent in the 19th
century, making this greenhouse a special treasure. Inspired by a
philosophical movement which promoted beauty as essential to the
quality of life, its influence is still felt today.
On the day I visited, the heavenly scent of virburnum blossoms
perfumed the air and tulips, from warm sunny yellows to deep plum
greeted guests along the walkways… and the hats! Just like people,
some hats have larger than life personalities, others are shy and
demure, while still others reflect the gardens around them, and each
is wonderful in its own incarnation.
At the event the conservatory’s President and CEO, Bruce Harkey,
presented the Ann Isaly Wolfe Award to Karen Fiorile for her
dedication, remarkable contributions and achievements, including her
leadership in steering a capital campaign which is now nearing its
$22 million dollar goal. Hat Day itself raised an impressive 285,000
from generous sponsors and attendees and the fruits of Mrs.
Fiorile’s labor and that of other donors and volunteers were on
display that very day: as I wandered through the John F. Wolfe Palm
House I encountered children and their teachers from Dunloe
Elementary School engaged in learning about butterflies. Trustee
Corey Goldsand noted that these programs strengthen the community
and Nancy Cardenas, Chair of the event, added that within a few
weeks the Scotts Miracle-Gro Foundation Children’s Garden will open,
providing additional opportunities for imaginative learning.
Kudos are also extended to staff members Jessica Fagan, Development
Officer for Special Events, Jenn Wilson, Director of Marketing and
Communications and Jenny Pope, Director of Community Outreach, for
their contributions to creating a memorable event for attendees and
exciting educational opportunities for young people.
To learn more about the Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical
Gardens, visit https://www.fpconservatory.org |
