Thanks to a bequest from the Krasne Family Foundation, the New Reform Temple, 7100 Main St., was able to acquire the space west of their building on Gregory Blvd. "With the wonderful vision of garden designer Karen Lyman, the space was transformed into a place for many activities from weddings to Sunday school class space, extending the site literally and spiritually in a beautiful way," says Rabbi Alan Londy.[img_assist|nid=713|title=|desc=|link=node|align=left|width=361|height=479] There are small and large patios with seat walls and serving-height walls, a large pergola with vaulted beams, and water features with three basalt columns creating a central feature of the garden. The
Zen and butterfly gardens add a special touch.
According to Lyman, "The design of the garden is rectilinear and repeats the style of the Synagogue while laid within the dictates of the terrain. Every tree, bush, shrub and flower was selected for a specific purpose including foliage, flower, bark, berry, fragrance, color and attractiveness to bird, butterfly and human." She is a Johnson County K-State Extension Master Gardener specializing in garden design, installation and project management through her business, Karen Lyman Fine Gardens. Her experience is with garden "projects" which include stone and concrete work, built structures, water features and a broad variety of other outdoor amenities, in addition to plants.
Congratulations to the New Reform Temple and Karen Lyman for a job well done. Thanks for being one of Waldo's Best!