In October of 2006 Dunbar students were devastated by the loss of classmate Josh Shipman. Josh was 15 years old and an exuberant, energetic and loving friend to many. Hoping to find a positive way to celebrate his life, students and faculty requested a space on the Dunbar campus to demonstrate their love by creating a garden in his honor. Jesse Higginbotham and Hannah Landers were primary motivators in the project. In March Jesse asked his mother to help.

After Jesse's accident in April 2007 his parents were asked to assist in bringing the concept to reality. Together with members of the school including several clubs as well as with the help of members of the Lexington community, the native plant garden design was crafted and on June 25th received approval by the Fayette County School Board. Over 100 students, faculty, local businesses and community members gathered each Saturday to prepare and plant the garden.

Hannah Landers was among a core group that became known as the "dream team" - working relentlessly at the garden. We lost our precious Hannah in an auto accident in May 2008.

There will never be a day at the garden that we won't recall Hannah's tireless efforts, endless compassion, her altruistic nature - so in kind with Jesse's, so exemplary of Josh's. Our tribute to Hannah can be viewed by clicking the Hannah button.

Photos of our on-going work at the Dunbar Memorial Garden can be viewed by clicking the button at left.

Our work schedule for 2009 including plans, projects, ideas and contact info is available by clicking "garden '09."

Better late than never - posted with backpedaling.