Join us February 19 at Hanna Park as we plant the future together.

Dear Friends,

You are warmly invited to join the Extension Master Gardener Association of Cleveland County for a special groundbreaking ceremony celebrating the beginning of the Dotty Leatherwood Botanical Gardens.

This public garden has been years in the making and will serve as a welcoming place for learning, reflection, and connection with nature. Created and maintained by Master Gardeners, the gardens will honor the legacy of Dotty Leatherwood while offering inspiration and education for generations to come.

Groundbreaking Ceremony

When: Thursday, February 19, 2026 at 4:00 PM

Where: Hanna Park, 1655 McBrayer-Springs Rd, Shelby, NC 28150

Agenda:

Welcome & Purpose
Holly Greene & Anne Eskridge,
Extension Master Gardener Volunteers

City of Shelby honors Dotty Leatherwood
Stan Anthony,
City of Shelby Mayor

Recognition of Elected Officials and Call to Action
Kevin Gordon,
Cleveland County Commission Chair

Thanks to Donors & Partners
Greg Traywick,
County Extension Director

Dignitaries Turning the Sod
Mayor Stan Anthony
Commissioner Kevin Gordan
Charlie Holtzclaw
Allen Langley
Holly Greene
Anne Eskridge
Greg Traywick
Michael Harden
Steve Leatherwood
Accompanied by Extension Master Gardener Volunteers

We hope you will join us as we officially break ground and take the first step in planting a garden rooted in knowledge, wellness, and community.

All are welcome. We would love to celebrate this milestone with you.

Warm regards,

The Extension Master Gardener Association of Cleveland County
Dotty Leatherwood Botanical Gardens