| A partnership between the State Arboretum of Virginia at Blandy and the Native American Church of Virginia seems like a natural fit, thanks to the Foundation of the State Arboretum (FOSA) Volunteer and Events Coordinator Koy Mislowsky. Koy invited a small group of Native American elders to Blandy for an initial meeting on Thursday Oct.16. Notes following the two and half hour meeting revealed new possibilities for increasing understanding of the natural environment through education and culture for all people. "What a wonderful gathering," Koy said describing the conversations. "I am sitting at my desk reviewing all that we spoke of and I am amazed at your knowledge and expertise. So happy we have found each other!" Koy initiated contact with Chris and Rene' White of the Native American Church of Virginia following a local Winchester Star article. While more talks and planning is needed, |  initial impressions look positive for new ways to share Native American heritage while bringing all people, students, visitors and the community into one hoop at Blandy. The Arboretum occupies 172 acres of Blandy Experimental Farm and contains over 5000 woody trees and shrubs from around the world. Click here for FOSA membership information. |
| FOSA 30th Anniversary This year is the 30th Anniversary for the Foundation of the State Arboretum of Virginia (FOSA), the official fund-raising, membership, and gift receiving organization for the State Arboretum of Virginia and Blandy Experimental Farm. | FOSA is a 501(c)(3), University of Virginia (UVA) -related foundation. FOSA has about 700 member units and in 2013,100 active volunteers amassed nearly 4,800 volunteer hours by helping in the gardens, at events, and in our gift shop under the arch. Partnering with the Native American Church of Virginia could mean increased education of Native American culture, lands and way of life. |
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