SPOKANE, Wash. – Manito Park, a cherished landmark more than 100 years old, is wrapping up its planting ahead of the summer. Nestled on Spokane’s South Hill, the park is known for its vibrant gardens maintained by a passionate team of gardeners.
Lilly Wasson, one of the dedicated gardeners, reflected on her journey, saying, “I have been coming to this park since I was a little tiny kid, and it was my favorite place in Spokane.” She shared the pandemic prompted her to change careers, ultimately leading her to pursue gardening full-time – a lifelong passion.
Her colleague, Kevin Kilgore, found his way to gardening after growing up outside Philadelphia. He found his way to Spokane through the Air Force; he was stationed at Fairchild.
“We get people from all over the world who come here,” Kilgore said, emphasizing the park’s international appeal.
Visitors like Bob and Sue Robin Weinhauer from Atlanta appreciate the park’s charm. Bob, a former college coach and NBA executive, commented on the gardening team’s success, stating, “Oh the gardening team is definitely a winner.”
And Bob would know a winning team when he sees one – in town to visit his daughter – because he assembled the 1994 and 1995 Houston Rockets. He’s responsible for the franchise two, and only, NBA titles.
Wasson, who organized the Duncan Garden design this year, expressed her gratitude for the opportunity. “It’s an honor.”