The Owensboro Magazine 2009

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT Environmental Education Blooms in the Garden By Beck Glenn he Western Kentucky Botanical Garden on Carter Road is a unique feature on Owensboro’s arts and culture scene. The garden offers a unique and inviting venue for environmental education for schoolchildren and the general public. The Western Kentucky Botanical Garden was established in 1993 and is run completely by volunteers. “Many botanical gardens begin with a mansion-type setting that has gardens,” said Susie Tyler, director of the garden. The Western Kentucky Botanical Garden began in a cornfield that was a part of the Berry Farm which later became Weatherberry, a bed and breakfast. “We are certified, a true botanical garden,” she added. “We follow quite high standards.” During 2008, the garden hosted the Big Bugs exhibit by David Rogers. Rogers, from Long Island, N.Y., uses all-natural materials in his larger-than-life insect sculptures. They are made from whole trees found dead, willow saplings, dry materials and other forest materials. The exhibit became the centerpiece of educational programming dealing with entomology and ecology. “It’s the first time they have ever come to Kentucky,” Tyler said. The garden hosted the exhibit and hours of complementary programming with all volunteers. For those just interested in enjoying the peace and serenity of being outdoors in a well-kept setting, the garden is open for self- T “We are certified, a true botanical garden. We follow quite high standards.” – Susie Tyler, director of the Western Kentucky Botanical Garden guided tours all year. Guided tours are available by appointment. The garden also serves as a unique venue for weddings, retreats and meetings. Many small gardens – including a rose garden, a children’s garden, a traditional Japanese garden and several more – come together as the Western Kentucky Botanical Garden. Other exhibits include an 1890s doctor’s building that was moved to the garden in 2005. The building represents the era when herbal medicine was actively practiced in the area and it is located near the herb garden. New to the garden for 2009 are two permanent features. The Bill and Marilyn Young Educational Classroom has been added to offer space for teaching environmental topics. And, a gift of Ann Murphy Kincheloe, The Playhouse in the Garden has been added to the Moonlite Children’s Garden in honor of Morton J. Holbrook Jr. This feature offers a little fun time for younger garden visitors. ● Visitors to the Western Kentucky Botanical Garden walk along a path beside one of three giant ants made by artist David Rogers on display in the garden. The ants, made of willow wood, are part of the Big Bugs exhibit that also includes a praying mantis, dragonflies, and a spider in its web. The exhibit visited the garden during 2008. 10 OWENSBORO 2009

Table of Contents Feed for the Digital Edition of The Owensboro Magazine 2009

The Owensboro 2009 From our Chair Contents Buffalo Trace Brings History to Owensboro Environmental Education Blooms in the Garden Owensboro Arts and Cultural Events Making the Grade Building Opportunity In the Swim Economic Development through Placemaking Sister Cities brings International Benefits Embracing Innovation to spur Economic Development Creating a Pool of Skilled Workers Expanding Transportation Options One-Stop Business Licensing Robot Doctor Building a Locally-Based Food Economy Welcome to the Neighborhood Luxury Living on the River Moving In Trendy Excursions Evolves with the Times The Crème Brews Comfort Downtown Growing with the Community Family Business Boasts Longevity, Good Barbecue Entrepreneurial Spirit Comes Home Capturing the Broadway Market Ministering to Church Leaders Community at-a-Glance By the Numbers Dining & Catering Guide Advertiser Index

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