05/03/2026
The 5-7 pm, open to the public, family friendly event will be hosted on Tuesday, May 12, 2026, at 2626 S. Gertrude Street, South Bend, 46614. The new Native Wildflower Garden will be planted in honor of the late Carole Riewe.
Carole lovingly cared for many spring time baby birds over decades. She served as the former director of the Rum Village Nature Center, for decades. "Carole worked as a bird rehabilitator and served as an inspiration to all young ecology activists like myself, " fondly recalls Diana Mendelsohn.
Many local ecology activists remember Carole's years of work to benefit the birds and Rum Village Park. To honor her memory the Native Wildflower garden will be planted at the Oak Savannah. The location, at the Oak Savannah, planted over a decade ago by City of South Bend Forester, Brent Thompson and crew, during the annual community Earth day celebration. Plants and seed will be planted. Bring a plant or seeds will be shared.
The event is being co- hosted by Diana Mendelsohn, Earth day South Bend and Garry Harrington, Director of the Rum Village Nature Center. Participants are asked to dress in layers, rain or shine the planting is planned. The planting site will be marked by the orange cones and the Earth flag. For additional details, contact Diana Mendelsohn, [email protected], or text 574.310-9428.
