SUCCESSFUL
CHILDREN’S PARTY
As we were setting up for the Children’s Party in May, we were
a little nervous as it rained the whole time. But right before the
event was scheduled to start, the sun came out!
Our theme this year was “Follow the Stars.” We had about 15
costumed characters. Children were asked to get autographs
from the “star” characters as they walked through the gardens.
When they had five signatures, they could turn them in for a
prize.
As usual, we thank the Dubuque Senior High cheerleaders
who dressed up and entertained the children. The two all-time
favorites remain Elmo and Dora the Explorer. Cheerleaders
also shared their face-painting talents for the kids and they
were able to put together a “make and take” flower at our craft
area. American Trust provided “Ernie the Eagle” who gave out
free balloons. Another favorite was the real life fire engine that
children could explore.
GREENHOUSE ADDITION
Thanks to a $15,000 grant award by the Dubuque Racing
Association, we are in the middle of reconstructing the greenhouse attached to the McAleece building. The old greenhouse
was 20 years old and was suffering from a roof that leaked both
water and tar, a lack of proper ventilation, and heat that was
difficult to control. The yellowing plastic that formed the roof and
sides of the building did not allow for proper sunlight for photosynthesis. There was also a safety concern by the Green Team
volunteers who had to carry large trays of plants up and down
steps to transfer plants between areas.
A special thank you goes to Kennie Harris who spent a great
deal of time planning the event and to Luke Stumpf who designed our flyers and programs.
Submitted by Sandi Helgerson
Our new and improved greenhouse
construction is well underway.
We are using the same footprint
by reusing the foundation from
the old greenhouse. We will also
be using everything that was still
in good condition for the new
area. We have filled out the
foundation so that the transition
between the McAleece and the
new greenhouse will be level.
Our new polycarbonate walls
will not yellow and will remain
useful for years to come.
Submitted by Wylie Bledsoe
From the Gift Shop
As I began to focus on closing the DABG Gift Shop following another active and
successful season, I discovered a bit of fun trivia.
Do you know that the DABG has its own Quartet of Queen “B’s”?
Barbara Barton | Barbara Bishop | Barbara Blake | Barbara Bonnett
While Gift Shop personnel offer a cheerful “Welcome to the DABG” to new and
returning visitors, over 300 “worker bees” continue to weave their skill within the
tapestry of color throughout the Gardens.
Both inside and out the anticipation of Autumn is evident and you are encouraged to
treat yourself to the colors of nature that await you. Please visit soon and often.
Submitted by Barbara Barton, Gift Shop Manager
5