A recent gift to Central Gardens by two families pays tribute to a family legacy. Mary and Warren Woerner said, “A gift to Central Gardens seem an appropriate way to honor our parents. They always loved watching things grow—tall fields of corn, beautiful flower, and lively grandchildren. The schools on the Central Gardens site offered us many gifts—wonderful teachers, an excellent education, countless happy times and lifelong dear friends. We hold other alumni will join us in giving back to the community that gave us so much.” Mary Woerner is the Chairman of the Alumni Membership Challenge Committee for Central Gardens.

Donna Furleigh sees Central Gardens as a “good idea. I’m all for tourism”, she said. Bob Furleigh added, “I see it as a centerpiece for people entering Clear Lake. Four generations of our family attended public school in Clear Lake. We feel roots here. Bob sees Central Gardens as a “visionary thing”. He respects the leadership of the people involved and their follow-through of providing long-term care with the endowment. Bob and Donna Furleigh are the Honorary Co-Chairs of the Central Gardens “A Time to Grow” Capital Campaign.

Bob mentioned that the water fountain, which will honor their parents, is located close to where the music room was in the old high school. This water feature will be a place to listen to the cool, refreshing sounds of water splashing into the central fountain near the entrance to the Gardens. A stone seat wall encircles the fountain, allowing visitors to sit while enjoying the sights, scents, and sounds.

For more information on making a gift or for a naming opportunity at Central Gardens, please contact Capital Campaign Chairs Jim and Ann Kuhlman (641-423-3592), Honorary Chairs Bob & Donna Furleigh (357- 4097) or the Central Garden office at 357-1938. Updates on the site progress can be viewed at www.central-gardens.org