Last weekend we celebrated the third anniversary
of the completion of the Korean Bell Garden at Meadowlark Gardens in Vienna
Virginia. This continues to be a very successful partnership between the
Korean-American Cultural Committee headed by Jeung Hwa Elmejjad-Yi, and NOVA
Parks.
This amazing Korean Garden features unique structures hand
built by special artists from Korea built in a traditional way that dates back
many centuries. The large, 3 ton bell at the center of the garden was cast in
Gyeonggi-do, and is a gift from that Provence of Korea.
The garden was funded with donations, including support from
the Republic of Korea, and many very generous private donors.
Part of the agreement between NOVA Parks and the
Korean-American Cultural Committee was for an endowment to support the
long-term maintenance and upkeep of this international treasure. At the event
last Saturday $20,000 towards the $200,000 endowment goal was donated.
The event was attended by over 300 people, featured many
cultural displays and events, and was attended by may elected officials who
have been supportive of these efforts.
