On May 1st, the JC Raulston Arboretum will hold its Annual Gala in the Garden. I have to say, it is one of the most enjoyable ways I know of to spend the first Sunday in May every year.
Before I get too involved in the party, let me tell you a little bit about the JC Raulston Arboretum. Located on eight acres just off Hillsborough Street in the heart of Raleigh, the Raulston Arboretum is part of NC State University. A working research and teaching garden, JCRA focuses on evaluating and displaying plant material from literally around the world. It is a wonderful place to visit when you are looking to start your own garden as plants that thrive well in Southern gardens are identified.
Members of the Arboretum also get to participate in a plant giveaway in the fall of each year that features rare and wonderful plants. It is really something to see. Thousands of plants literally vanish in five minutes. Did I say that the plants are FREE?
And now back to the Gala. It is a wonderful fundraiser where you get to walk through the gardens, enjoy delicious food, visit with friends and bid on everything from plants to jewelry at the Silent Auction.
My parents were both very involved in the Arboretum having served on its Board as well as contributing to the capital campaign to build the Ruby McSwain Education Center, which is a great facility for meetings and weddings alike. I was proud to follow in their footsteps as a board member for eight years. The Arboretum is a real jewel both for Raleigh and for North Carolina. It is open 365 days a year, so the next time you are in the area, take an hour to check out the beauty.
By Phyllis Brookshire
