Sally's Page
Horticulture at Jonah: A Whale of Variety
Jonah, a community center welcoming individuals of all
ages, with and without special needs, recently received
a grant of $500.00 from NEAHTA. This was divided
into four programs, taking place on July 11th, August
1st, September 12th, and October 3rd of 2006. The
range of the classes was great, including Hawaiian lei
making, thematic floral design and Dutch tulip planting.
On each occasion, seniors as well as intellectually and
physically challenges adults were served.
Inspired by Jenny Joseph's poem, July program "The
Colors of Red and Purple" explored the bounty of these
colors found in nature. Participants created stunning
arrangements, using flowers such as purple moon-glow
carnations, red alstromeria and spray rose. Symbolic
interpretation of the colors was discussed, as well as
their use in different languages. Each student received a
red and purple goodie bad to round out this colorful
class.
August's program, "Aloah! Journey to the Isle of
Oahu," found students creating authentic Hawaiian leis.
Participants enjoyed the sound of steel guitar, drum
beats and ocean waves as they sampled fresh pineapple
and hibiscus tea. After learning the history of our 50th
state, participants practiced Hawaiian greetings and
translated their names into the native language.
Mingling floral design with history, October's class
"Sailing into Floral Design" took students back in time
to the 15th century. As special guest Christopher
Columbus discussed the discovery of America,
participants created truly American centerpieces. Using
pumpkins (native to South America) and an abundance
of autumn flowers, students discovered there is a florist
in all of us.
In September's class "Tulip Time", students crossed the
Atlantic Ocean and found themselves in the
Netherlands. Planting Dutch tulip bulbs for later indoor
blooms., participants recited words and sang songs in
the language. While learning about the fascinating
origin of the tulip industry in the Netherlands, students
enjoyed native street-organ music and tasty "stroopies"
(Dutch waffle cookies).
Thanks to NEAHTA's generosity, individuals served by
the Jonah Center were able to explore and experience
the many dimensions of horticulture therapy.
View Pictures!
Winter
Wonderland
Sew
Bee It