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For the past twelve years, I've had the privilege of working for Wellfield Botanic Gardens. A place built on a dream the Elkhart Rotary Club dared to pursue over 20 years ago. As we celebrate our nation's 250th anniversary, I'm reminded that what makes Wellfield, and our community, so special isn't the flowers or the trails. It's the people; the volunteers, staff, and neighbors whose generosity and dedication built this place and sustain it still.

With fossils dating back 35 million years, the rose has a rich history rooted in power, mythology, and romance. Tied to the love goddess Aphrodite and used as a symbol of devotion during the Victorian era, the red rose has long been associated with passion and desire. Aromatic, vibrant, and delicate, it has inspired generations of art, poetry, and song — and remains the universal symbol of love to this day.