Betty Ma and John Pipia via Facebook
On Memorial Day, Monday, May 27, nearby Descanso Gardens will offer free admission to Veterans, active-duty military, and their guests. The initiative, sponsored by the Pipia/Ma Welcome Home Fund, a Pasadena Community Foundation fund, aims to express gratitude for the sacrifices made by service members.
John Pipia and Betty Ma, long-time La Cañada Flintridge residents and co-founders of the Pipia/Ma Welcome Home Fund, established the fund in 2021 at the Pasadena Community Foundation. The fund supports the well-being and self-care of Veterans and active-duty military service members.
Pipia, a U.S. Army veteran who served in active combat in Vietnam, understands firsthand the challenges faced by those in the military community.
“We are deeply grateful for the service and dedication of our Veterans and active-duty military members,” said Pipia. “This Memorial Day, we invite them to relax, unwind, and enjoy the beauty of Descanso Gardens as a small token of our appreciation for their sacrifices.”
Veterans and active-duty military service members can visit Descanso Gardens with complimentary admission for themselves and up to six guests.
Tickets will be available at the Visitor Center on Memorial Day, with no advance registration required. The event will take place rain or shine, and attendees are requested to bring proof of military service or veteran affiliation.
“We hope this gesture brings joy and relaxation to our Veterans and their families,” said Ma. “Collaborating with Descanso Gardens and other community leaders allows us to extend our gratitude and support to those who have served our country with honor and courage.”
Juliann Rooke, CEO of Descanso Gardens, expressed her gratitude for the generosity of Pipia and Ma.
“It’s incredibly kind of John and Betty to sponsor Veterans and active military on Memorial Day,” she said. “Descanso Gardens is a place of peace and tranquility, and we hope they and their families come to enjoy the serenity and beauty of our gardens.”
Descanso Gardens, founded as a public garden in 1953, is located at 1418 Descanso Drive, La Cañada Flintridge, CA 91011.
The garden is open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., and admission is $15 for adults, $11 for seniors and students with a school ID, $5 for children 5 to 12, and free for children under 5.
As a member-supported garden accredited by the American Alliance of Museums and the National Register of Historic Places, Descanso Gardens offers free admission and early entry year-round to its members. For more information about the Memorial Day event at Descanso Gardens or the Pipia/Ma Welcome Home Fund, please click on the provided links or contact Descanso Gardens at (818) 949-4200 or visit descansogardens.org.
