Where did 2012 go? I guess it is true, the older you get the faster time goes. December brings the close of another year and my first as chair of Friends of the Arboretum (FOTA). It has been a whirlwind of events at the Arboretum and Botanical Gardens. I would like to touch on several highlights of the year.
    Admission fees - starting in 2013 there will be an admission fee to visit the gardens. FOTA fully realizes some people are not happy with this change, but we believe that this fee is truly in the best interest in the future development of the natural habitat, trails and botanical gardens. The fees for attending have been set at $3 for ages 13 and over, $1 for ages 5 to 12, and under 5 free, pending final City Council approval on December 3. While there is a fee, we believe that this rate is more than fair for the experience. There have been no changes in the dog policy, although pet owners will be assessed the admission fee.
    FOTA Memberships - although an admission fee will go into effect in January, remember that your FOTA membership provides you with entrance at no charge, based on the level of membership. FOTA has worked hard to keep our current rates in line with the past memberships. FOTA memberships are as follows: Member (one free admission per visit) - $35; Member Plus 1 (admits two people per visit) - $50; and Member Plus 5 (admits up to 6 paying guests per visit) - $75. These rates will be effective when renewing your membership in 2013. Until then your current memberships will provide admission to the gardens. Incidentally, FOTA reached a new high in the number of memberships this year.
    Sculptures - FOTA realizes the addition of the sculptures in the garden has created quite a stir. The debate also created publicity for the Arboretum - publicity that money cannot buy. The controversy around them resulted in record attendance. Despite the hot, dry summer more people than ever ventured out to the place that so many people love to visit. Many came just to see the sculpture for themselves, while many others took time to walk the grounds and discover the treasure which is the Overland Park Arboretum and Botanical Gardens.
    Train Garden - what a hit this developing garden has become. Young and old alike stand, glossy-eyed, watching the trains circle the track. Keep in mind the caboose and Leatherwood Depot under construction are just the first phases of development. There is much more to come, but we need your help. Please consider making a tax-deductible gift to the Arboretum to support its continued growth.
    These are just a few highlights of a great year. Believe it or not, we are planning for bigger and better things next year. Watch for a series of events and attractions that will be happening throughout the year. Our Special Attractions Committee has been hard at work creating new activities to keep bringing you back. Please continue your support and visits to the gardens.