November 20, 2024 • 29 mins
Illuminations is a Wichita holiday tradition! Don’t miss the choreographed light shows, hot chocolate and cookies, and a visit with Santa. Botanica Wichita’s Illuminations is open every evening from Nov. 24-Dec. 30. Botanica's Executive Director Dr. Lynette Zimmerman invites us to this year's spectacular! For tickets...botanica.org/illuminations
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Speaker 1 (00:01):
Welcome to Wichiton Weekend, the weekly public affairs program from
iHeartRadio Wichiton ninety seven, ninety ninety eight, Well oh two
won the Bull Channel ninety sixty three and Ault one
O seven three.
Speaker 2 (00:14):
Tis the season when the only phrase you hear is
tis the season, and tis the season for Illuminations at Botanica.
Now this is a real gym in the world of
holiday light displays, because this is the one and only
display that happens at Botanica. And here to tell us
all about it is Botanica's executive director, doctor Lynette Zimmerman.
(00:37):
Welcome to Wichita Weekend, Doctor Zimmerman.
Speaker 3 (00:40):
Oh, thank you so much, don, it's a pleasure to
be here.
Speaker 2 (00:42):
Okay, Now, you're fairly new to Botanica, right I am.
Speaker 3 (00:47):
I am six months on the job. I joined in
late May. Okay, so I am new to Botanica. But
I am an old friend of Wichita.
Speaker 2 (00:55):
Alrighty, that's the main thing, the main thing that really counts.
So you're then pretty familiar with what happens at Illuminations,
right I am.
Speaker 3 (01:05):
So I actually have an interesting history with Illuminations. I
performed there in two thousand and one with the trombone
Studio from Wichita State University. That was when I was
taking lessons from my professor Russ Weidner, and we were
out there in the freezing cold playing holiday carols.
Speaker 2 (01:25):
That's got to be a fantastic memory for you, right.
Speaker 3 (01:28):
I remember the luminaries lining the pathways and all the
people came out to listen. It was such a joy.
And back then it was still new ish. They hadn't
fully evolved into the digital realm of all the light installations,
but it was still a destination and my entire family
came out and it was just such a wonderful evening.
Speaker 2 (01:50):
Boy, And that was how many years ago.
Speaker 3 (01:53):
A few years ago, twenty three years ago, okay.
Speaker 2 (01:57):
And now here we are in twenty twenty four. Like
you say, Botanica has changed along with the times and
kept up with the times, and Illuminations is just a
state of the art digital experience.
Speaker 3 (02:09):
I mean, oh absolutely. We're actually an award winning light
display now. So we won in last Christmas, we won
the top ten best botanical light show. We ranked number
four in the Reader's Digest survey. So that was so
fantastic and it's such an amazing community asset. To have
(02:32):
right here in Wichta one of the best ranked Botanical
Gardens and Botanical Garden Light Show Holiday light show. So
it's such a privilege to be there and to deliver
sort of the traditional experience but also add something new
every year.
Speaker 2 (02:49):
Yeah. Well, and just so you'll know, Audience Illuminations is
open November twenty ninth, which that was just a couple
of days ago, and it'll be open through January fourth
of twenty twenty five. There's no limit to the number
of visits you can make to Illuminations, so if you
want to bring the family out a few times, we'd
(03:10):
encourage you to do so. Very very reasonable admission price
for non members at sixteen dollars, for members of Botanica
thirteen dollars. Kids ages three through eleven get in for
ten bucks, and kids ages two and under of course
get in free. Now do Zimmerman, as I see it,
We've got like four sessions each evening. Is that how
(03:32):
that works?
Speaker 3 (03:33):
We do, so we encourage everyone to pick a time slot.
You can always exchange your tickets if something comes up.
But it's really a great experience, and this year we
have new opportunities for parking. One of our One of
our most reviewed comments is parking for illuminations. Well, we're
trying to make that a little bit easier for everyone
this year. Through a great partnership with doctor Larkin across
(03:57):
the street from us, on the corner of Central McLean,
he has gifted us the opportunity to utilize that parking
lot there used to be the Riverside Hospital. Oh yes,
it's a fantastic location for us. We have a walking
bridge right into Botanica. It only takes a few minutes
to get there, so prime parking there. We'll also have
a shuttle bus as well. Now that's not to say
(04:19):
that you can't park in the other options as you
have done in the past. Hopefully you visit us before.
We've got parking off of Museum Boulevard as well as
our main lot, So there's plenty of options this year.
As I said, we're always trying to make it a
little bit better of an experience for everyone.
Speaker 2 (04:35):
Yeah, well, this is the ultimate holiday experience. Now, are
we voting again this year?
Speaker 3 (04:43):
We are voting yes, yes, and we encourage everyone to vote.
Voting I believe is open through December fourth or fifth,
don't quote me on that day. But one of those
votes sooner rather than later. You can find that on
our social media on Instagram or Facebook. You'll see that
link there. What makes Botanica so unique for Illuminations is
(05:04):
that we are a fully customized light display light show.
We do not rent this out. It's not a traveling exhibition.
This is the brainstorm of our team. We have a unique,
dedicated crew to our Illuminations event specifically for lighting and
digital displays. So they are talented, they are accredited, and
(05:28):
they are working year round to make this special of
an experience as possible.
Speaker 2 (05:33):
Oh boy, wow, Well you know you do it right
every year. I think the raver reviews are building and building,
and you know recently you expanded the regular Botanica parking
right between between Botanica and the river there. So I
can't think of a single reason not to come out
to Elimination.
Speaker 3 (05:54):
Well, I hope you don't have any, so I encourage
everyone to come visit. It's a great show. This year,
we have a couple of unique things that are different,
so if you came last year, great, keep that tradition going.
We've got a new display, custom made butterflies and they're
animated and they'll be in the Butterfly house and they're
so gorgeous. We lit them up the other night to
(06:15):
test them out and it was just amazing experience. So
that's new this year, okay. And then we also have
done something different in the Shakespeare Garden, which is next
to the main building. It used to be our underwater experience,
but now it is dedicated to think gilded age. Think
your reds and your gold and your traditional Christmas flare.
Speaker 2 (06:36):
Oh man, nice description. I am getting a picture in
my mind. I'm looking at a little piece here off
your website too. I am intrigued by the title groove
by the Funky Tree. Is there a funky tree?
Speaker 3 (06:53):
There's a funky tree. This little gem has come about
and it's different each year. It came out of this
idea of well, we have all of these sort of
these random bits and items that have been collected over
the years. Let's make a funky tree. Let's make a
Christmas tree that's just out of this world, odd and unique.
And our volunteers are to credit for that. They came
(07:14):
up with that original idea a couple of volunteers, Tom
and Linda and Mary. They started that tradition and we
want to continue it. So each year it gets a
little bit better, a little bit bigger, and as you
walk in and under it, you can't help but look
up and laugh.
Speaker 2 (07:29):
I love it, oh man. So it's kind of the
opposite end of the spectrum from that sad, little Charlie
Brown Christmas tree. This is the funky tree, and it's
over the top and it's fun and it's just one
of the great things you'll see at Illuminations this year.
Speaker 3 (07:43):
Absolutely, And don't forget our our main tree, which is
in the grand lawn next to the stage. That thing
is sixty two feet tall and it takes us over
three weeks to build it.
Speaker 2 (07:56):
So when it's lit up you can see it from
a ways away. We know where Botanica generally is.
Speaker 3 (08:02):
Right it becomes part of the city's skyline for that month.
It's pretty incredible.
Speaker 2 (08:07):
Now, Doctor Zimmerman, is the wonderful carousel there at Botanica?
Is that going to be open during Illuminations?
Speaker 3 (08:14):
Don you just read my mind? Yes, I absolutely want
to shout out the Kicha Family Carousel. This is a
just a holiday classic. It is an experience that we
want everyone to enjoy while they're out there at Illuminations.
Carousel rides will be going NonStop every hour on the
so it's a fun experience. It's only three dollars to ride,
(08:37):
and we have a full setup in there. We'll have
merchandise so winter apparel branded illuminations that you can pick
up on those really cold days you need that extra sweater,
just want to have a memento to take home. We'll
have the hot chocolate bar there. There's also some adult
beverages just in case you need one of those, and
(08:57):
some treats to purchase as well, So we've really added
to that experience in that area. The fire pits will
be on so you can loans outside and just watch
do some people watching while you're there.
Speaker 2 (09:10):
You know what, you paint such a beautiful picture. And
I'm thinking that this is going to be the place
to be for every Wichita family that wants to to
maybe maybe begin a new family tradition, maybe start something
that's worth repeating year after year. And there's probably already
some families that have already established that tradition and so
(09:31):
they're going to continue and of course with another visit
to Illuminations this year out at Botanica, happening November twenty
ninth through January fourth. It's easy in and easy out,
but you do need to have reservations, right, You've got
to buy those tickets. You do so, and the best
way to do that would be to go online to
(09:52):
Botanica dot org slash Illuminations.
Speaker 3 (09:55):
Absolutely, you can get your tickets online to choose your date,
choose your time slot, make that reservation in advance, and
if you're a member, just log in so you'll get
your discount immediately. If you have any questions, give us
a call. Our team is happy to answer that or
exchange any dates for you. So no worries there if
you can't make it one night, We've got plenty of options.
Speaker 2 (10:17):
Okay, and just we probably don't even need to bring
this up, but this is not part of regular Botanic admission.
Speaker 3 (10:24):
It's not. No. This is a special event but.
Speaker 2 (10:27):
Well worth it and something that I think is going
to really bring some excitement to your family, some enjoyment.
And it's kind of retro a little bit, you know,
to get in the car and drive over to the
place and we can walk through this wonderful display and
enjoy it at our own pace. Basically until the next
session comes.
Speaker 3 (10:47):
Through absolutely, and if you have any interest, there's a
golf cart tour, So if you want to come early
before the crowds, you can always book a private golf
cart tour. I think they'll start at fourth or in
the afternoon. Book those today. Just call her main phone
number and we'll get you set up there. But Savannah
Herman is our go to galfor that and she'll take
(11:10):
you through the display. Is it as dusk sets in
around five pm, so right before the crowd. So if
that's of interest, you know, I encourage anybody with mobility
issues to book that.
Speaker 2 (11:20):
That's wonderful. That is great that you guys provide that
and man oh Man, Botanica is the place at holiday
time in year round. It's really unlike any other feature
of our city. It is unique and it's a gem
worth cherishing and enjoying. So by all means, get out
(11:41):
there and bring the family to Illuminations at Botanica. We'll
take a quick break and when we return we'll visit
more with doctor Lynette Zimmerman. She's the executive director at Botanica.
Thanks for listening. This is what Chita Weekend.
Speaker 4 (11:58):
Share.
Speaker 5 (11:58):
Love beyond this Christmas season, partner with the Salvation Army.
Give the gift of hope to those in need by
volunteering to ring bells at a kettle stand. Join with
the Salvation Army to offer a hand up to your neighbors.
Sign up to become a kettle bell ringer and register
to ring dot com.
Speaker 6 (12:14):
This season, visit the region's ultimate holiday destination, Botanica's Illuminations,
voted the fourth best light display in the United States.
Delight in the wonder of over two million shimmering lights
across twenty acres. Enjoy dancing light displays and a stunning
new red and gold gilded holiday tree in the Shakespeare Garden.
(12:34):
Illuminations of Botanica runs from November twenty ninth through January fourth.
To purchase tickets and reserve your time slot, go to
Botanica dot org.
Speaker 4 (12:43):
If you or a loved one is living with a disability,
the Independent Living Resource Center is here to help. They
offer resources as well as classes and activities like cooking,
computer skills, and arts and crafts, plus peer support and
help within home care. As an FMS provider, they could
assist with payroll too called three one six nine four
to two six three zero zero or visit ILRCKS dot
(13:07):
org Independent Living Resource Center empowering People with disabilities.
Speaker 7 (13:14):
When the doctor told us about my mom's cancer, it
made me feel so helpless until I called the Leukemia
and Lymphoma Society and spoke with Grace, who answered all
of my questions about the disease, treatment options and cancer
related expenses. Her support and compassion made us feel whole again. Today,
(13:34):
I'm calling Grace to let her know my mom is
beating cancer. To learn more, visit ls dot org.
Speaker 8 (13:43):
Help the planet with a tip from iHeartRadio Earth. Space
heating is responsible for nearly forty five percent of residential
energy bills. Reduce your heating use while you're at home.
By turning down your thermostat between five and eight degrees.
You'll save money and energy while doing some recharging of
your own. When we all chip in, our world becomes
a better place. Brought to you by iHeartRadio Earth and
(14:04):
the National Environmental Education Foundation. To find more tips for
smarter sustainable living or to take action in your own community,
go to iHeartRadio dot com slash Earth.
Speaker 2 (14:14):
Welcome back to which Dall weekend. We are visiting with
doctor Lynette Zimmerman, executive director of Botanica here in which
Daal we've been talking about illuminations and we are so
excited because this fabulous holiday light display is right back
in town again and happening through January fourth. And doctor
zimmer when we were talking during the break, an event
(14:36):
of this massive scale doesn't happen with just a few people.
It takes time and an army of folk, does.
Speaker 3 (14:45):
It not, Absolutely, This actually is a year round process.
So at the beginning of the year we're planning for
months at a time, and then we actually start installation
in July, if you can believe that. We start in
July getting things set up, making sure the electrical lines
are operational. We start wrapping trees with lights in August.
(15:08):
And it does take a small army to make this happen.
So many volunteers usually we have between three to four
hundred volunteers help us. They come out in groups to
do tree wrapping and set up illuminary the luminaries along
the sidewalks and it does, you know, turn out so beautiful.
But we couldn't do it without the help of our
(15:28):
volunteers and our robust team. And you know, as I
like to say Botanica is a little big city. We
are so grateful to our sponsors who make us everything
that we do possible, and we are so so grateful.
I'll give a couple of shout outs today to Evergy,
(15:48):
our energy partner, and Coke Lexus of Wichita. You'll see
a couple of their cars on display. We're so grateful
for them. Kolby Sandlin is one of our generous sponsors.
There an Interrust Bank. Now I have a funny story
about Interest. Okay, So I one of my neighbors was
out this weekend and I met her sister, and she
(16:11):
has worked at Interest for her entire career. And so
I went out and met her and I was telling
her I was with Botanica and she goes, oh, She's like,
he goes, you know what I did in nineteen ninety
And I said, what's that? I was like, wasn't that
the first year of illuminations? And she said yes. And
what we did is Interests Bank volunteers. We went out
with lighters and we lit the candles in the paper
(16:34):
banks along the sidewalk, one by one. We are a
twenty acre garden that is just dedication beyond belief that
volunteers from Interest Bank would come out lighting those candles
every night, one by one. That is the depth of
this relationship between the City of Wichita and Botanica. How
(16:57):
amazing is that? And you know, through our conversation, I
was just an off of her story selling and she goes, yeah,
I'm excited I'm coming back this year. To have that
throughout your life as a stable, you know, sort of
cornerstone holiday tradition is so fabulous and I just love
(17:19):
being part of that, and I love the Botanica has
that piece of memory and piece of history in people's
family traditions, and it's just it's great to blend that
history with our newer, sort of our next gen sponsors.
This year, we were bringing in Trader Joe's Cool, which
(17:39):
is having a night where they're going to be doing activations, giveaways.
That is going to be an extraordinary evening. They're so
excited to partner with Botanica this year, and we're excited
to see what they bring. So they'll have food samples,
they'll have some swag.
Speaker 2 (17:55):
Who doesn't love just browsing through Trader Joe.
Speaker 3 (17:58):
You can't get enough.
Speaker 2 (18:00):
Oh, that's a great partner.
Speaker 3 (18:02):
So we're very excited to have them on board this year.
And a couple of other shout outs. Salt Creek Wealth
Advisors is a new friend this year. We're welcoming them
in and their clients. Cargill exceptional work that they do
in our community, Delta Dental, and Tessa Ray And of
course I must do a shout out for Trinity Sales.
They are fabulous partners with us. So all of those
(18:26):
lights up in the tree, the sixty two foot tall tree,
we couldn't do that without Trinity. They provide the booms,
they provide the lifts, so they are an integral piece
to this puzzle that we call eliminations.
Speaker 2 (18:39):
Now I want to be sure I've got this straight
in my mind. So the entire installation is done by Botanica.
Speaker 3 (18:47):
Correct.
Speaker 2 (18:47):
We realize that you guys might hire that out because
it's so huge.
Speaker 3 (18:52):
No, we do that all in house. It's the partnership
between our volunteer groups and our staff.
Speaker 2 (18:57):
Wow, major props.
Speaker 3 (19:00):
Thank you, thank you so much.
Speaker 2 (19:02):
That is a monumental undertaking and Wichita is all that
much better a hometown because of it.
Speaker 3 (19:11):
I agree what you guys do.
Speaker 2 (19:13):
How cool? Okay, Lenette Zimmerman. We've been visiting with Lynette.
She's the executive director for Botanica. She's been on the
job for about six months now and Botanic Lynette, you
were telling me before we started recording that you have
a kind of an interesting career path that led you
to Botanic. Can we talk about previous careers that you've had.
Speaker 3 (19:36):
Oh? Absolutely. So I'm a musician by trade. I actually
graduated from Wichita State University, so I feel like coming
to Botanica and coming back to Kansas is a homecoming
for me. So after I graduated with a music performance
degree from what I consider one of the best in
the Midwest music schools, I traveled around performing profession in
(20:00):
Colorado and New Mexico and ended up on the East Coast.
So I always wanted to go east, so I did.
Ended up in Philadelphia for about fifteen years working for
the Philadelphia Orchestra and the Philly Pops and other big
organizations there. It's a fabulous city. Shout out to Philly.
It's such a unique town and just in love with
(20:23):
its artistic side. And after that I went up to
North Gjersey outside of New York, so I was working
at a university. There, I transitioned from performing arts into
the visual arts space and the academic center that I
was overseeing. So I've had this amazing fusion of an
arts background in the different categories of course, but then
(20:46):
this fusion of culture and now in the living collection space.
So it's just this amazing opportunity for me to utilize
all of my skill sets and really bring the best
to Botanica that I can.
Speaker 2 (21:00):
You know, Botanic has had some pretty cool musical happenings
in warm weather. I hear springtime and summertime. Maybe you
can bring a few fresh new ideas to things will
be happening this warm weather season when a springtime comes
and more music comes.
Speaker 3 (21:16):
Oh absolutely, I'm so glad that you mentioned that. I'm
already thinking about what to do on the stage and
how to promote some new acts, to bring in some
new music. We're looking at local and regional acts. Regional,
I'm very I'll use that work term liberally, so across
the US and even South. You know, how do we
(21:36):
bring in that talent and really continue to elevate Wichita
as a city of music and city of action and activity,
And Botanic is the perfect place to do that.
Speaker 2 (21:46):
You know. I can remember back in the early eighties
a friend of mine, who at the time was working
for Wichita State Grounds Crew, had heard a rumor and
he goes, if you heard about display your opening up? Oh? No,
and he he wanted me to go investigating what I
(22:08):
could find out about Botanica. And I remember trying to
remember what that.
Speaker 3 (22:13):
What was the rumor?
Speaker 2 (22:14):
Well, it was just that it was coming up and
it's going to be cool and interesting and people that
knew how to plant a tree you might want to apply.
I think that was his main interest. But but you know,
I'm trying to remember that that particular section of land
prior to Botanica, yes, you know, and I remember going
(22:35):
to Cowtown when was it, you know, first grader and stuff,
and I'm just trying to remember. But now it doesn't
matter because it's a gem. It's a beautiful work of art.
Speaker 3 (22:47):
Botanica has a fascinating history. It started out as a
community garden space. A local neighborhood said hey, you know,
we're riverside, we need we need something to call our
own space. And from that little seedling of an idea
in nineteen eighty three, a few years later down the road,
(23:08):
they had formed a nonprofits dot us and they had
worked with the city to acquire the land in a
partnership with the city and started to create this amazing
public private partnership which was you know, where the foundation
was laid. And then nineteen eighty seven they opened to
(23:29):
the public Memorial Day weekend. So if you could do
the math, we're almost forty, so we're coming up on
a big birthday soon, so you can expect great things
in the next few years as we start to enter
our middle aged phase. But it's such a gem in
the city and it so much has happened, and i'd
like to, you know, thank all my predecessors who really
(23:51):
saw the vision and went to work immediately, either in
the dirt or you know, on the on the sidewalks,
you know, and in meetings getting that funding together to
support the mission. But they've done such a fabulous job
setting it up to where it is now, and I
have the amazing opportunity to take it to that next
(24:11):
level and to really write that next chapter.
Speaker 2 (24:14):
We're excited for you, doctor Zimmerman.
Speaker 3 (24:16):
Thank you.
Speaker 2 (24:16):
It's going to be so much fun to have you
here in town and on the job and just down
the street from us here in downtown Wichita at Botanica.
And in case you just joined us, do not miss
the greatest Christmas holiday light display you will see, I'm
betting in your lifetime. It's called Illuminations and it's happening
(24:39):
through January fourth at Botanica. You can get all the
ticket information and all that the hours and everything else
at botanica dot org slash Illuminations. And boy, you know
we were talking too about volunteer opportunities. Do you still
need some folks to help out through the holiday seat?
Speaker 4 (25:00):
Oh?
Speaker 3 (25:00):
Absolutely. We have about sixty, depending on the night, sixty
to eighty volunteers a night.
Speaker 2 (25:06):
Oh wow.
Speaker 3 (25:06):
So if you're interested in helping out, please do. One
of the best perks of volunteering is you get free
tickets so you can come back later and bring your
family and have a wonderful time. But we would certainly
appreciate anybody who's interested in volunteering.
Speaker 2 (25:21):
We welcome all, okay, And a great way to volunteer
is to look at the website there. Just go to
botanica dot org and you'll see all these different things
you can click on. You can make a donation if
you'd like, if you'd like to join, and there are
definite perks to membership.
Speaker 3 (25:36):
Right, yes, absolutely, so become a member. I'm a member,
So I'm a proud member member, a proud member of Botanica. Yeah,
but at certain levels you do get complimentary tickets to
Illuminations and a whole bunch of other perks. Then we
have our holiday gift going out soon to all of
our new members, So we always encourage people to join.
It's an awesome opportunity, not just for the holiday season,
(26:00):
but all year rounds. We do seasonal planting, so the
colors changed throughout and that's very unique for not only
a botanical garden, but for this area, so we really
capitalize on all the colors all the seasons.
Speaker 2 (26:15):
Is there a botanical like an in house botanical guru
at Botanica. You don't have to necessarily reveal who it is,
but I'm wondering, is there like a mastermind that knows
how and where and what to plant? You know what
I'm saying.
Speaker 3 (26:31):
Oh? Absolutely. We have what I like to call the
brain Trust, and we have a group of people who
have been in the business pretty much since it started
in nineteen eighty seven. But they know the grounds, they
know what grows, They know the perennials, the annuals, the beds,
the displays, how we like to do them, how to
(26:52):
care for tropical plants in winter in Kansas, how to
care for our banana tree, how to care forlies. So
we have all of these experts, which is so unique
and so special to Botanica. But I do have to
thank them. I have an incredible team of individuals that
work day and day out and do phenomenal, phenomenal jobs.
(27:14):
And even on the weekends. We had a crew come
in on Saturday to finish planting tulip bulbs before the
ground freezes. So there's a dedication to this line of
work that I'm always always impressed with.
Speaker 2 (27:28):
And we should probably remind folks that even after illuminations
is done, Botanica remains.
Speaker 3 (27:35):
Open, right, Oh, absolutely.
Speaker 2 (27:37):
So it's a year round experience, it really is.
Speaker 3 (27:41):
It's an opportunity, a great walking space, an opportunity to
go and decompressed from the world. Maybe put down your
phone for a minute, I get some fresh air, take
a walk and watch the seasons change. You'll see coming
up in March, you'll start to see the tulips bloom.
You'll start to see everything switch and change. You'll see
(28:01):
us breaking Lily's in the pond, and it's just a
great way to make sure that you're finding that balance
in your daily routine.
Speaker 2 (28:11):
Botanica. It's one of the best things about Wichita. If
you've never been shame on you get online right now,
go to botanica dot org. Learn something about it and
make plans now to join us for illuminations, maybe more
than once with your family. Come on out open Botanica's
illuminations open till January fourth, and all the information online
(28:36):
botanica dot org, slash Illuminations. Doctor Lynette Zimmerman, executive director
for Botanica. I hope this is the first of many
times you come in and let us know here at
Wichita Weekend what's going on there.
Speaker 3 (28:51):
Wonderful. Thank you so much, Don, it's been a pleasure.
Speaker 2 (28:53):
Thanks for being with us.
Speaker 1 (28:54):
Thank you for listening to Wichita Weekend a service of
buyingheart radio stations. Willow two won the Bowl Channel nine
six three, All one, O seven three and ninety seven
nine B ninety eight. Listen every Sunday for wichitaa Weekend
Welcome to Wichiton Weekend, the weekly public affairs program from
iHeartRadio Wichiton ninety seven, ninety ninety eight, Well oh two
won the Bull Channel ninety sixty three and Ault one
O seven three.
Speaker 2 (00:14):
Tis the season when the only phrase you hear is
tis the season, and tis the season for Illuminations at Botanica.
Now this is a real gym in the world of
holiday light displays, because this is the one and only
display that happens at Botanica. And here to tell us
all about it is Botanica's executive director, doctor Lynette Zimmerman.
(00:37):
Welcome to Wichita Weekend, Doctor Zimmerman.
Speaker 3 (00:40):
Oh, thank you so much, don, it's a pleasure to
be here.
Speaker 2 (00:42):
Okay, Now, you're fairly new to Botanica, right I am.
Speaker 3 (00:47):
I am six months on the job. I joined in
late May. Okay, so I am new to Botanica. But
I am an old friend of Wichita.
Speaker 2 (00:55):
Alrighty, that's the main thing, the main thing that really counts.
So you're then pretty familiar with what happens at Illuminations,
right I am.
Speaker 3 (01:05):
So I actually have an interesting history with Illuminations. I
performed there in two thousand and one with the trombone
Studio from Wichita State University. That was when I was
taking lessons from my professor Russ Weidner, and we were
out there in the freezing cold playing holiday carols.
Speaker 2 (01:25):
That's got to be a fantastic memory for you, right.
Speaker 3 (01:28):
I remember the luminaries lining the pathways and all the
people came out to listen. It was such a joy.
And back then it was still new ish. They hadn't
fully evolved into the digital realm of all the light installations,
but it was still a destination and my entire family
came out and it was just such a wonderful evening.
Speaker 2 (01:50):
Boy, And that was how many years ago.
Speaker 3 (01:53):
A few years ago, twenty three years ago, okay.
Speaker 2 (01:57):
And now here we are in twenty twenty four. Like
you say, Botanica has changed along with the times and
kept up with the times, and Illuminations is just a
state of the art digital experience.
Speaker 3 (02:09):
I mean, oh absolutely. We're actually an award winning light
display now. So we won in last Christmas, we won
the top ten best botanical light show. We ranked number
four in the Reader's Digest survey. So that was so
fantastic and it's such an amazing community asset. To have
(02:32):
right here in Wichta one of the best ranked Botanical
Gardens and Botanical Garden Light Show Holiday light show. So
it's such a privilege to be there and to deliver
sort of the traditional experience but also add something new
every year.
Speaker 2 (02:49):
Yeah. Well, and just so you'll know, Audience Illuminations is
open November twenty ninth, which that was just a couple
of days ago, and it'll be open through January fourth
of twenty twenty five. There's no limit to the number
of visits you can make to Illuminations, so if you
want to bring the family out a few times, we'd
(03:10):
encourage you to do so. Very very reasonable admission price
for non members at sixteen dollars, for members of Botanica
thirteen dollars. Kids ages three through eleven get in for
ten bucks, and kids ages two and under of course
get in free. Now do Zimmerman, as I see it,
We've got like four sessions each evening. Is that how
(03:32):
that works?
Speaker 3 (03:33):
We do, so we encourage everyone to pick a time slot.
You can always exchange your tickets if something comes up.
But it's really a great experience, and this year we
have new opportunities for parking. One of our One of
our most reviewed comments is parking for illuminations. Well, we're
trying to make that a little bit easier for everyone
this year. Through a great partnership with doctor Larkin across
(03:57):
the street from us, on the corner of Central McLean,
he has gifted us the opportunity to utilize that parking
lot there used to be the Riverside Hospital. Oh yes,
it's a fantastic location for us. We have a walking
bridge right into Botanica. It only takes a few minutes
to get there, so prime parking there. We'll also have
a shuttle bus as well. Now that's not to say
(04:19):
that you can't park in the other options as you
have done in the past. Hopefully you visit us before.
We've got parking off of Museum Boulevard as well as
our main lot, So there's plenty of options this year.
As I said, we're always trying to make it a
little bit better of an experience for everyone.
Speaker 2 (04:35):
Yeah, well, this is the ultimate holiday experience. Now, are
we voting again this year?
Speaker 3 (04:43):
We are voting yes, yes, and we encourage everyone to vote.
Voting I believe is open through December fourth or fifth,
don't quote me on that day. But one of those
votes sooner rather than later. You can find that on
our social media on Instagram or Facebook. You'll see that
link there. What makes Botanica so unique for Illuminations is
(05:04):
that we are a fully customized light display light show.
We do not rent this out. It's not a traveling exhibition.
This is the brainstorm of our team. We have a unique,
dedicated crew to our Illuminations event specifically for lighting and
digital displays. So they are talented, they are accredited, and
(05:28):
they are working year round to make this special of
an experience as possible.
Speaker 2 (05:33):
Oh boy, wow, Well you know you do it right
every year. I think the raver reviews are building and building,
and you know recently you expanded the regular Botanica parking
right between between Botanica and the river there. So I
can't think of a single reason not to come out
to Elimination.
Speaker 3 (05:54):
Well, I hope you don't have any, so I encourage
everyone to come visit. It's a great show. This year,
we have a couple of unique things that are different,
so if you came last year, great, keep that tradition going.
We've got a new display, custom made butterflies and they're
animated and they'll be in the Butterfly house and they're
so gorgeous. We lit them up the other night to
(06:15):
test them out and it was just amazing experience. So
that's new this year, okay. And then we also have
done something different in the Shakespeare Garden, which is next
to the main building. It used to be our underwater experience,
but now it is dedicated to think gilded age. Think
your reds and your gold and your traditional Christmas flare.
Speaker 2 (06:36):
Oh man, nice description. I am getting a picture in
my mind. I'm looking at a little piece here off
your website too. I am intrigued by the title groove
by the Funky Tree. Is there a funky tree?
Speaker 3 (06:53):
There's a funky tree. This little gem has come about
and it's different each year. It came out of this
idea of well, we have all of these sort of
these random bits and items that have been collected over
the years. Let's make a funky tree. Let's make a
Christmas tree that's just out of this world, odd and unique.
And our volunteers are to credit for that. They came
(07:14):
up with that original idea a couple of volunteers, Tom
and Linda and Mary. They started that tradition and we
want to continue it. So each year it gets a
little bit better, a little bit bigger, and as you
walk in and under it, you can't help but look
up and laugh.
Speaker 2 (07:29):
I love it, oh man. So it's kind of the
opposite end of the spectrum from that sad, little Charlie
Brown Christmas tree. This is the funky tree, and it's
over the top and it's fun and it's just one
of the great things you'll see at Illuminations this year.
Speaker 3 (07:43):
Absolutely, And don't forget our our main tree, which is
in the grand lawn next to the stage. That thing
is sixty two feet tall and it takes us over
three weeks to build it.
Speaker 2 (07:56):
So when it's lit up you can see it from
a ways away. We know where Botanica generally is.
Speaker 3 (08:02):
Right it becomes part of the city's skyline for that month.
It's pretty incredible.
Speaker 2 (08:07):
Now, Doctor Zimmerman, is the wonderful carousel there at Botanica?
Is that going to be open during Illuminations?
Speaker 3 (08:14):
Don you just read my mind? Yes, I absolutely want
to shout out the Kicha Family Carousel. This is a
just a holiday classic. It is an experience that we
want everyone to enjoy while they're out there at Illuminations.
Carousel rides will be going NonStop every hour on the
so it's a fun experience. It's only three dollars to ride,
(08:37):
and we have a full setup in there. We'll have
merchandise so winter apparel branded illuminations that you can pick
up on those really cold days you need that extra sweater,
just want to have a memento to take home. We'll
have the hot chocolate bar there. There's also some adult
beverages just in case you need one of those, and
(08:57):
some treats to purchase as well, So we've really added
to that experience in that area. The fire pits will
be on so you can loans outside and just watch
do some people watching while you're there.
Speaker 2 (09:10):
You know what, you paint such a beautiful picture. And
I'm thinking that this is going to be the place
to be for every Wichita family that wants to to
maybe maybe begin a new family tradition, maybe start something
that's worth repeating year after year. And there's probably already
some families that have already established that tradition and so
(09:31):
they're going to continue and of course with another visit
to Illuminations this year out at Botanica, happening November twenty
ninth through January fourth. It's easy in and easy out,
but you do need to have reservations, right, You've got
to buy those tickets. You do so, and the best
way to do that would be to go online to
(09:52):
Botanica dot org slash Illuminations.
Speaker 3 (09:55):
Absolutely, you can get your tickets online to choose your date,
choose your time slot, make that reservation in advance, and
if you're a member, just log in so you'll get
your discount immediately. If you have any questions, give us
a call. Our team is happy to answer that or
exchange any dates for you. So no worries there if
you can't make it one night, We've got plenty of options.
Speaker 2 (10:17):
Okay, and just we probably don't even need to bring
this up, but this is not part of regular Botanic admission.
Speaker 3 (10:24):
It's not. No. This is a special event but.
Speaker 2 (10:27):
Well worth it and something that I think is going
to really bring some excitement to your family, some enjoyment.
And it's kind of retro a little bit, you know,
to get in the car and drive over to the
place and we can walk through this wonderful display and
enjoy it at our own pace. Basically until the next
session comes.
Speaker 3 (10:47):
Through absolutely, and if you have any interest, there's a
golf cart tour, So if you want to come early
before the crowds, you can always book a private golf
cart tour. I think they'll start at fourth or in
the afternoon. Book those today. Just call her main phone
number and we'll get you set up there. But Savannah
Herman is our go to galfor that and she'll take
(11:10):
you through the display. Is it as dusk sets in
around five pm, so right before the crowd. So if
that's of interest, you know, I encourage anybody with mobility
issues to book that.
Speaker 2 (11:20):
That's wonderful. That is great that you guys provide that
and man oh Man, Botanica is the place at holiday
time in year round. It's really unlike any other feature
of our city. It is unique and it's a gem
worth cherishing and enjoying. So by all means, get out
(11:41):
there and bring the family to Illuminations at Botanica. We'll
take a quick break and when we return we'll visit
more with doctor Lynette Zimmerman. She's the executive director at Botanica.
Thanks for listening. This is what Chita Weekend.
Speaker 4 (11:58):
Share.
Speaker 5 (11:58):
Love beyond this Christmas season, partner with the Salvation Army.
Give the gift of hope to those in need by
volunteering to ring bells at a kettle stand. Join with
the Salvation Army to offer a hand up to your neighbors.
Sign up to become a kettle bell ringer and register
to ring dot com.
Speaker 6 (12:14):
This season, visit the region's ultimate holiday destination, Botanica's Illuminations,
voted the fourth best light display in the United States.
Delight in the wonder of over two million shimmering lights
across twenty acres. Enjoy dancing light displays and a stunning
new red and gold gilded holiday tree in the Shakespeare Garden.
(12:34):
Illuminations of Botanica runs from November twenty ninth through January fourth.
To purchase tickets and reserve your time slot, go to
Botanica dot org.
Speaker 4 (12:43):
If you or a loved one is living with a disability,
the Independent Living Resource Center is here to help. They
offer resources as well as classes and activities like cooking,
computer skills, and arts and crafts, plus peer support and
help within home care. As an FMS provider, they could
assist with payroll too called three one six nine four
to two six three zero zero or visit ILRCKS dot
(13:07):
org Independent Living Resource Center empowering People with disabilities.
Speaker 7 (13:14):
When the doctor told us about my mom's cancer, it
made me feel so helpless until I called the Leukemia
and Lymphoma Society and spoke with Grace, who answered all
of my questions about the disease, treatment options and cancer
related expenses. Her support and compassion made us feel whole again. Today,
(13:34):
I'm calling Grace to let her know my mom is
beating cancer. To learn more, visit ls dot org.
Speaker 8 (13:43):
Help the planet with a tip from iHeartRadio Earth. Space
heating is responsible for nearly forty five percent of residential
energy bills. Reduce your heating use while you're at home.
By turning down your thermostat between five and eight degrees.
You'll save money and energy while doing some recharging of
your own. When we all chip in, our world becomes
a better place. Brought to you by iHeartRadio Earth and
(14:04):
the National Environmental Education Foundation. To find more tips for
smarter sustainable living or to take action in your own community,
go to iHeartRadio dot com slash Earth.
Speaker 2 (14:14):
Welcome back to which Dall weekend. We are visiting with
doctor Lynette Zimmerman, executive director of Botanica here in which
Daal we've been talking about illuminations and we are so
excited because this fabulous holiday light display is right back
in town again and happening through January fourth. And doctor
zimmer when we were talking during the break, an event
(14:36):
of this massive scale doesn't happen with just a few people.
It takes time and an army of folk, does.
Speaker 3 (14:45):
It not, Absolutely, This actually is a year round process.
So at the beginning of the year we're planning for
months at a time, and then we actually start installation
in July, if you can believe that. We start in
July getting things set up, making sure the electrical lines
are operational. We start wrapping trees with lights in August.
(15:08):
And it does take a small army to make this happen.
So many volunteers usually we have between three to four
hundred volunteers help us. They come out in groups to
do tree wrapping and set up illuminary the luminaries along
the sidewalks and it does, you know, turn out so beautiful.
But we couldn't do it without the help of our
(15:28):
volunteers and our robust team. And you know, as I
like to say Botanica is a little big city. We
are so grateful to our sponsors who make us everything
that we do possible, and we are so so grateful.
I'll give a couple of shout outs today to Evergy,
(15:48):
our energy partner, and Coke Lexus of Wichita. You'll see
a couple of their cars on display. We're so grateful
for them. Kolby Sandlin is one of our generous sponsors.
There an Interrust Bank. Now I have a funny story
about Interest. Okay, So I one of my neighbors was
out this weekend and I met her sister, and she
(16:11):
has worked at Interest for her entire career. And so
I went out and met her and I was telling
her I was with Botanica and she goes, oh, She's like,
he goes, you know what I did in nineteen ninety
And I said, what's that? I was like, wasn't that
the first year of illuminations? And she said yes. And
what we did is Interests Bank volunteers. We went out
with lighters and we lit the candles in the paper
(16:34):
banks along the sidewalk, one by one. We are a
twenty acre garden that is just dedication beyond belief that
volunteers from Interest Bank would come out lighting those candles
every night, one by one. That is the depth of
this relationship between the City of Wichita and Botanica. How
(16:57):
amazing is that? And you know, through our conversation, I
was just an off of her story selling and she goes, yeah,
I'm excited I'm coming back this year. To have that
throughout your life as a stable, you know, sort of
cornerstone holiday tradition is so fabulous and I just love
(17:19):
being part of that, and I love the Botanica has
that piece of memory and piece of history in people's
family traditions, and it's just it's great to blend that
history with our newer, sort of our next gen sponsors.
This year, we were bringing in Trader Joe's Cool, which
(17:39):
is having a night where they're going to be doing activations, giveaways.
That is going to be an extraordinary evening. They're so
excited to partner with Botanica this year, and we're excited
to see what they bring. So they'll have food samples,
they'll have some swag.
Speaker 2 (17:55):
Who doesn't love just browsing through Trader Joe.
Speaker 3 (17:58):
You can't get enough.
Speaker 2 (18:00):
Oh, that's a great partner.
Speaker 3 (18:02):
So we're very excited to have them on board this year.
And a couple of other shout outs. Salt Creek Wealth
Advisors is a new friend this year. We're welcoming them
in and their clients. Cargill exceptional work that they do
in our community, Delta Dental, and Tessa Ray And of
course I must do a shout out for Trinity Sales.
They are fabulous partners with us. So all of those
(18:26):
lights up in the tree, the sixty two foot tall tree,
we couldn't do that without Trinity. They provide the booms,
they provide the lifts, so they are an integral piece
to this puzzle that we call eliminations.
Speaker 2 (18:39):
Now I want to be sure I've got this straight
in my mind. So the entire installation is done by Botanica.
Speaker 3 (18:47):
Correct.
Speaker 2 (18:47):
We realize that you guys might hire that out because
it's so huge.
Speaker 3 (18:52):
No, we do that all in house. It's the partnership
between our volunteer groups and our staff.
Speaker 2 (18:57):
Wow, major props.
Speaker 3 (19:00):
Thank you, thank you so much.
Speaker 2 (19:02):
That is a monumental undertaking and Wichita is all that
much better a hometown because of it.
Speaker 3 (19:11):
I agree what you guys do.
Speaker 2 (19:13):
How cool? Okay, Lenette Zimmerman. We've been visiting with Lynette.
She's the executive director for Botanica. She's been on the
job for about six months now and Botanic Lynette, you
were telling me before we started recording that you have
a kind of an interesting career path that led you
to Botanic. Can we talk about previous careers that you've had.
Speaker 3 (19:36):
Oh? Absolutely. So I'm a musician by trade. I actually
graduated from Wichita State University, so I feel like coming
to Botanica and coming back to Kansas is a homecoming
for me. So after I graduated with a music performance
degree from what I consider one of the best in
the Midwest music schools, I traveled around performing profession in
(20:00):
Colorado and New Mexico and ended up on the East Coast.
So I always wanted to go east, so I did.
Ended up in Philadelphia for about fifteen years working for
the Philadelphia Orchestra and the Philly Pops and other big
organizations there. It's a fabulous city. Shout out to Philly.
It's such a unique town and just in love with
(20:23):
its artistic side. And after that I went up to
North Gjersey outside of New York, so I was working
at a university. There, I transitioned from performing arts into
the visual arts space and the academic center that I
was overseeing. So I've had this amazing fusion of an
arts background in the different categories of course, but then
(20:46):
this fusion of culture and now in the living collection space.
So it's just this amazing opportunity for me to utilize
all of my skill sets and really bring the best
to Botanica that I can.
Speaker 2 (21:00):
You know, Botanic has had some pretty cool musical happenings
in warm weather. I hear springtime and summertime. Maybe you
can bring a few fresh new ideas to things will
be happening this warm weather season when a springtime comes
and more music comes.
Speaker 3 (21:16):
Oh absolutely, I'm so glad that you mentioned that. I'm
already thinking about what to do on the stage and
how to promote some new acts, to bring in some
new music. We're looking at local and regional acts. Regional,
I'm very I'll use that work term liberally, so across
the US and even South. You know, how do we
(21:36):
bring in that talent and really continue to elevate Wichita
as a city of music and city of action and activity,
And Botanic is the perfect place to do that.
Speaker 2 (21:46):
You know. I can remember back in the early eighties
a friend of mine, who at the time was working
for Wichita State Grounds Crew, had heard a rumor and
he goes, if you heard about display your opening up? Oh? No,
and he he wanted me to go investigating what I
(22:08):
could find out about Botanica. And I remember trying to
remember what that.
Speaker 3 (22:13):
What was the rumor?
Speaker 2 (22:14):
Well, it was just that it was coming up and
it's going to be cool and interesting and people that
knew how to plant a tree you might want to apply.
I think that was his main interest. But but you know,
I'm trying to remember that that particular section of land
prior to Botanica, yes, you know, and I remember going
(22:35):
to Cowtown when was it, you know, first grader and stuff,
and I'm just trying to remember. But now it doesn't
matter because it's a gem. It's a beautiful work of art.
Speaker 3 (22:47):
Botanica has a fascinating history. It started out as a
community garden space. A local neighborhood said hey, you know,
we're riverside, we need we need something to call our
own space. And from that little seedling of an idea
in nineteen eighty three, a few years later down the road,
(23:08):
they had formed a nonprofits dot us and they had
worked with the city to acquire the land in a
partnership with the city and started to create this amazing
public private partnership which was you know, where the foundation
was laid. And then nineteen eighty seven they opened to
(23:29):
the public Memorial Day weekend. So if you could do
the math, we're almost forty, so we're coming up on
a big birthday soon, so you can expect great things
in the next few years as we start to enter
our middle aged phase. But it's such a gem in
the city and it so much has happened, and i'd
like to, you know, thank all my predecessors who really
(23:51):
saw the vision and went to work immediately, either in
the dirt or you know, on the on the sidewalks,
you know, and in meetings getting that funding together to
support the mission. But they've done such a fabulous job
setting it up to where it is now, and I
have the amazing opportunity to take it to that next
(24:11):
level and to really write that next chapter.
Speaker 2 (24:14):
We're excited for you, doctor Zimmerman.
Speaker 3 (24:16):
Thank you.
Speaker 2 (24:16):
It's going to be so much fun to have you
here in town and on the job and just down
the street from us here in downtown Wichita at Botanica.
And in case you just joined us, do not miss
the greatest Christmas holiday light display you will see, I'm
betting in your lifetime. It's called Illuminations and it's happening
(24:39):
through January fourth at Botanica. You can get all the
ticket information and all that the hours and everything else
at botanica dot org slash Illuminations. And boy, you know
we were talking too about volunteer opportunities. Do you still
need some folks to help out through the holiday seat?
Speaker 4 (25:00):
Oh?
Speaker 3 (25:00):
Absolutely. We have about sixty, depending on the night, sixty
to eighty volunteers a night.
Speaker 2 (25:06):
Oh wow.
Speaker 3 (25:06):
So if you're interested in helping out, please do. One
of the best perks of volunteering is you get free
tickets so you can come back later and bring your
family and have a wonderful time. But we would certainly
appreciate anybody who's interested in volunteering.
Speaker 2 (25:21):
We welcome all, okay, And a great way to volunteer
is to look at the website there. Just go to
botanica dot org and you'll see all these different things
you can click on. You can make a donation if
you'd like, if you'd like to join, and there are
definite perks to membership.
Speaker 3 (25:36):
Right, yes, absolutely, so become a member. I'm a member,
So I'm a proud member member, a proud member of Botanica. Yeah,
but at certain levels you do get complimentary tickets to
Illuminations and a whole bunch of other perks. Then we
have our holiday gift going out soon to all of
our new members, So we always encourage people to join.
It's an awesome opportunity, not just for the holiday season,
(26:00):
but all year rounds. We do seasonal planting, so the
colors changed throughout and that's very unique for not only
a botanical garden, but for this area, so we really
capitalize on all the colors all the seasons.
Speaker 2 (26:15):
Is there a botanical like an in house botanical guru
at Botanica. You don't have to necessarily reveal who it is,
but I'm wondering, is there like a mastermind that knows
how and where and what to plant? You know what
I'm saying.
Speaker 3 (26:31):
Oh? Absolutely. We have what I like to call the
brain Trust, and we have a group of people who
have been in the business pretty much since it started
in nineteen eighty seven. But they know the grounds, they
know what grows, They know the perennials, the annuals, the beds,
the displays, how we like to do them, how to
(26:52):
care for tropical plants in winter in Kansas, how to
care for our banana tree, how to care forlies. So
we have all of these experts, which is so unique
and so special to Botanica. But I do have to
thank them. I have an incredible team of individuals that
work day and day out and do phenomenal, phenomenal jobs.
(27:14):
And even on the weekends. We had a crew come
in on Saturday to finish planting tulip bulbs before the
ground freezes. So there's a dedication to this line of
work that I'm always always impressed with.
Speaker 2 (27:28):
And we should probably remind folks that even after illuminations
is done, Botanica remains.
Speaker 3 (27:35):
Open, right, Oh, absolutely.
Speaker 2 (27:37):
So it's a year round experience, it really is.
Speaker 3 (27:41):
It's an opportunity, a great walking space, an opportunity to
go and decompressed from the world. Maybe put down your
phone for a minute, I get some fresh air, take
a walk and watch the seasons change. You'll see coming
up in March, you'll start to see the tulips bloom.
You'll start to see everything switch and change. You'll see
(28:01):
us breaking Lily's in the pond, and it's just a
great way to make sure that you're finding that balance
in your daily routine.
Speaker 2 (28:11):
Botanica. It's one of the best things about Wichita. If
you've never been shame on you get online right now,
go to botanica dot org. Learn something about it and
make plans now to join us for illuminations, maybe more
than once with your family. Come on out open Botanica's
illuminations open till January fourth, and all the information online
(28:36):
botanica dot org, slash Illuminations. Doctor Lynette Zimmerman, executive director
for Botanica. I hope this is the first of many
times you come in and let us know here at
Wichita Weekend what's going on there.
Speaker 3 (28:51):
Wonderful. Thank you so much, Don, it's been a pleasure.
Speaker 2 (28:53):
Thanks for being with us.
Speaker 1 (28:54):
Thank you for listening to Wichita Weekend a service of
buyingheart radio stations. Willow two won the Bowl Channel nine
six three, All one, O seven three and ninety seven
nine B ninety eight. Listen every Sunday for wichitaa Weekend
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