President’s Message:
And what is so rare as a day in June? Then, if ever, come perfect days.
John Keats
Fullness is the theme in Quiet Waters Park as the days turn toward summer. The intense growing season of spring is settling into robust landscapes and the full green of the trees and foliage is on display. Walkers along the trails are becoming more frequent and the park is alive with activity from morning to evening.
The Fairy House magic continues along the Holly Pavilion Trail and the houses seem right at home in their leafy glade. They will, however, disappear on June 22nd so be sure to catch them before that! The Friends want to especially acknowledge four contributions to the Fairy House Festival – two musicians from the Annapolis Symphony Orchestra filled the woods with additional magic at the opening “enchantment,” and two large and lovely planters filled with lavender native flowers were a gift from Homestead Gardens. These generous gifts added so much to the spirit of the festival.
On a more formal note, the Annual Membership Meeting of the Friends will be held in the Garden Gallery – amidst all of the “Golden” watercolor paintings on display from the Annapolis Watercolor Society. All members are invited to attend this meeting where 5 Board members will be voted upon for the next two fiscal years – through June 30, 2027. This meeting is always a special occasion with a review of the recent activities and accomplishments from each Committee along with refreshments, and the formal vote. The meeting begins at 6pm and the Annual Meeting itself will be finished by 7pm with a break, followed by the regular June Board meeting continuing on until 8pm.
The Friends are announcing a new theme for the coming fiscal year, Native Roots Restoration, to draw attention to a new emphasis throughout the park in activities to remove invasive species and replace them with native plants. I think you will enjoy this lyrical explanation of the benefits of this activity - provided by AI:
In the heart of our beloved Quiet Waters Park, a symphony of renewal begins with the removal of invasive species, those unwelcome wails that stifle nature’s choir. By replacing them with native roots, we weave a tapestry of vibrant life that beckons back the flutter of butterflies and the cheerful chirps of songbirds. This harmonious restoration nurtures essential habitats, enriching the soil with a life force that fosters resilience and creates a thriving ecosystem for wildlife. As the park flourishes, so too does the spirit of the community, gathering under the leafy canopies, their laughter dancing on the breeze. Together, we cultivate not just a sanctuary of beauty, but a deeper connection to the land, enhancing our shared joy and the lessons of stewardship for generations to come. "Native Roots Restoration" breathes life back into every corner, inviting all to witness the magic of harmony and balance in our urban oasis.
In future newsletters we will give you more information about participating in invasive species removal projects and programs.
For a change-of-pace for the playground loving children in your household, you might want to turn into the Red Maple Pavilion on your next park visit. A bright and inviting set of playground equipment offers new challenges and pleasures for both climbers and their caretakers.
We are also providing a reminder about the wonderful resource of photos and videos pertaining to the history of Quiet Waters Park available on the Annapollis Wiki History site. New digitized photos have been added from the Park archives.
So yes, June is busting out all over Quiet Waters Park…see you there!
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