Kaylee Jade Dahlia Day: A Beautiful Day of Remembrance, Community & Flowers

Today, Flaming Acres Dahlias had the honor of joining so many dahlia lovers, growers, hybridizers, and friends who gathered at Franz Witte to support the Goncalves family and celebrate the beauty and meaning behind the Kaylee Jade dahlia.

As part of the event, we gave away 200 dahlia tubers as gifts from our farm. It was such a joy to place those little bags of possibility into the hands of visitors—each one carrying the hope of beauty yet to bloom.

People came from near and far, including dahlia societies from California, Washington, and Oregon. Throughout the day, growers shared demonstrations, stories, and their knowledge of dahlias with such generosity. John Webb from Channel 7 served as the MC and did a wonderful job guiding the day with warmth and respect.

One of the most meaningful moments came when a representative for Idaho Governor Brad Little shared that May 9th will be remembered in Idaho as Kaylee Jade Day. It was incredibly special to hear the stories, meet the family, and witness the love surrounding them.

The growers of the Kaylee Jade dahlia were also present to share their story, and many of the individuals who contributed to the creation of the Kaylee Jade quilt were there as well. In a beautiful ceremony, the quilt was gifted to the family—a heartfelt tribute stitched together with love, remembrance, and community.

My daughter Ashley came to help me hand out gift bags and take photos, and she brought my granddaughter Olivia along too. Olivia enjoyed sitting on Nana’s lap, walking through the nursery to look at the flowers and plants, and—of course—eating ice cream. Those tender little family moments made the day even sweeter.

The silent auction was amazing, filled with enthusiastic participation and generous hearts. I had the chance to visit with old friends, make new ones, and connect with so many wonderful people who love dahlias, flowers, and gardening.

I came home tired from all the hard work, but my heart was full. It was worth every bit of it.

A special thank-you goes to Pat Looney, whose vision helped make this event possible, and to Lynn Sturgeon, who kept everything organized and running smoothly. Franz Witte was an incredible host, and their nursery provided such a beautiful space for this meaningful gathering.

It truly was a great day—one filled with remembrance, generosity, flowers, family, and the kind of beauty that grows when people come together.

Whew...

Debra Flaming

Flaming Acres Dahlias