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May 2025
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Garden of the Month - May 9, 2025
Bridget and Stephen Anderson - 39740 Rou Mar Nei
May Garden of the Month recipient Bridget Anderson, right, entertained Gardenettes with a Tea at the award presentation. Some Gardenettes attendingwere Sandy Cusick, Margaret Bailey, Marilyn Wright, Susan Pizani, Mary Hirsch, Carol McGough, Cynthia Cummer and Linda Farbe. Attending but not shown were Cricket Ayala and Vicky Fannaly.
Bridget and Stephen Anderson, 39740 Rou Mar Nei, received May Garden of the Month honors from the Gardenettes, a Ponchatoula garden club. The award was presented at a formal Tea hosted by Bridget Anderson.
Club members attending included Margaret Bailey, Cricket Ayala, Susan Pizani, Vicky Fannaly, Marilyn Wright, Linda Fabre, Cynthia Cummer, Mary Hirsch, Sandy Cusick and Carol McGough. Gardenettes are members of District VI, Louisiana Garden Club Federation Inc., Deep South Garden Clubs Inc., and National Garden Clubs Inc.
Although the lovely outdoor appearance of the Anderson home conforms to the neighborhood, it's in the back where the magic happens. For a couple who enjoy having company, many umbrella covered tables and cozy seating areas give them plenty of space to host their many friends.
Whimsical statuary, potted palms, airy ferns, massed Amaryllis add to the beauty of the Anderson's outdoor entertainment center. The patio has elaborate trellises with a central water fountain, making a perfect party center for Anderson's many festive occasions.
Bridget and Stephen Anderson, 39740 Rou Mar Nei, received May Garden of the Month honors from the Gardenettes, a Ponchatoula garden club. The award was presented at a formal Tea hosted by Bridget Anderson.
Club members attending included Margaret Bailey, Cricket Ayala, Susan Pizani, Vicky Fannaly, Marilyn Wright, Linda Fabre, Cynthia Cummer, Mary Hirsch, Sandy Cusick and Carol McGough. Gardenettes are members of District VI, Louisiana Garden Club Federation Inc., Deep South Garden Clubs Inc., and National Garden Clubs Inc.
Although the lovely outdoor appearance of the Anderson home conforms to the neighborhood, it's in the back where the magic happens. For a couple who enjoy having company, many umbrella covered tables and cozy seating areas give them plenty of space to host their many friends.
Whimsical statuary, potted palms, airy ferns, massed Amaryllis add to the beauty of the Anderson's outdoor entertainment center. The patio has elaborate trellises with a central water fountain, making a perfect party center for Anderson's many festive occasions.
April 2025
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Bosom Buddy Bags - April 30, 2025
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Gardenette Karen Hotard delivered another 52 Bosom Buddy Bags for cancer patients to carry their medical drains. Staci Arceneaux at North Oaks Medical Center received these colorful hand-sewn items which are much in demand on April 30. The club belongs to District VI, Louisiana Garden Club Federation Inc., Deep South Garden Clubs Inc. and National Garden Clubs Inc. Gardenettes have been sewing these bags since 2016 in honor of breast cancer awareness. Hotard has chaired the committee for over two years and has kept the tradition going when it slowed during the COVID years. |
LGCF Inc. Convention - April 8-9, 2025
Vicky Fannaly received Member of Honor, Lifetime Achievement Award at the Louisiana Garden Club Federation Inc. Convention, April 8 in Alexandria LA. Presented by LGCF President Tricia Ortalano, Fannaly was nominated by the Gardenettes.
Gardenettes received first place in both state and Deep South Garden Clubs Inc. for their publicity pressbook. They have achieved this honor for several years. A monetary award for Social Media and awards for non-competitive Garden Club Achievement and Arbor Day were also presented to the club. Clubs represented at the convention also belong to National Garden Clubs Inc.
In May, Fannaly will begin a two-year term as LGCF District VI Director, a position held by her mother-in-law Ruth Fannaly in 1955. District VI includes thirteen clubs from Washington Parish to West Baton Rouge and Iberville parishes.
Fannaly who has been in Gardenettes (Ponchatoula) for 45 years, also holds membership in Belle Oaks Garden Club (Hammond), Tangipahoa Parish Master Gardeners Association, Gladiolus Garden Club of Oklahoma (a zoom organization), North Shore Daylily Association, and the Ponchatoula Branch Library Garden Club. She is active in the LGCF as Webmaster and Summer Board Chairman.
Gardenettes received first place in both state and Deep South Garden Clubs Inc. for their publicity pressbook. They have achieved this honor for several years. A monetary award for Social Media and awards for non-competitive Garden Club Achievement and Arbor Day were also presented to the club. Clubs represented at the convention also belong to National Garden Clubs Inc.
In May, Fannaly will begin a two-year term as LGCF District VI Director, a position held by her mother-in-law Ruth Fannaly in 1955. District VI includes thirteen clubs from Washington Parish to West Baton Rouge and Iberville parishes.
Fannaly who has been in Gardenettes (Ponchatoula) for 45 years, also holds membership in Belle Oaks Garden Club (Hammond), Tangipahoa Parish Master Gardeners Association, Gladiolus Garden Club of Oklahoma (a zoom organization), North Shore Daylily Association, and the Ponchatoula Branch Library Garden Club. She is active in the LGCF as Webmaster and Summer Board Chairman.
Meeting - April 9, 2025
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Nicholas Piazza, Plumeria Expert
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Nicholas Piazza, a member of the Plumeria Society, gave pointers on the lovely Plumeria plants whose fragrant blooms are used in Hawaii for making Lei’s and whose fragrance is valued for perfumes and soaps. Piazza spoke to the Gardenettes at their April meeting held in the home of Susan Pizani, club president.
According to Pizani, “Mr. Nicholas gave us a wonderful talk on plumeria and even offered up one of the plumeria that he had rooted as a door prize. His talk was very interesting, and I learned a lot about these exotic plants.
Gardenettes are members of District VI, Louisiana Garden Club Federation Inc., Deep South Garden Clubs Inc. and National Garden Clubs Inc. Following Piazza’s presentation, Pizani started the business meeting.
Ellen Pusey, treasurer, and Cynthia Cummer, corresponding secretary, gave their reports. Pizani announced that Vicky Fannaly got the member of honor lifetime achievement award at the Louisiana Garden club Federation annual convention in Alexandria.
Club members were glad to see Margaret Hardin and Rose Ann Husser, who had been sick for some time. Also, past president Sonya Avery visited from Mississippi where she relocated.
Pizani suggested that at the Christmas meeting members donate toys to Toys for Tots program instead of doing the usual gift exchange. The idea went over well and everyone agreed that was a good thing to do.
Mary Hirsh was able to get a garden of the month for the month of May. Her neighbor was so excited about getting the award in May that she wants to give a Tea for the club. Pizani added, “We can present the award to her the day of the tea. I encouraged anyone who could make it to make it since this lady is going out of her way to make a nice afternoon for us. I will announce the date shortly after we get confirmation from the homeowner.”
She reminded everyone about National Garden Week, which takes place the first week of June. Marilyn Wright is chairing this committee and will talk to the Library about letting us set up like the club has for the past couple of years. Margaret Bailey suggested that a sign up asking that the public take only two plants be displayed, so that more people will have access to the plants. Everyone agreed that was a good idea .
Hostesses for the meeting were Pizani, Virginia Hawkins and Vicky Fannaly. The final meeting of the garden club year will be the annual Banquet, to be held at Murphy’s Restaurant in Hammond. (Article by Susan Pizani)
According to Pizani, “Mr. Nicholas gave us a wonderful talk on plumeria and even offered up one of the plumeria that he had rooted as a door prize. His talk was very interesting, and I learned a lot about these exotic plants.
Gardenettes are members of District VI, Louisiana Garden Club Federation Inc., Deep South Garden Clubs Inc. and National Garden Clubs Inc. Following Piazza’s presentation, Pizani started the business meeting.
Ellen Pusey, treasurer, and Cynthia Cummer, corresponding secretary, gave their reports. Pizani announced that Vicky Fannaly got the member of honor lifetime achievement award at the Louisiana Garden club Federation annual convention in Alexandria.
Club members were glad to see Margaret Hardin and Rose Ann Husser, who had been sick for some time. Also, past president Sonya Avery visited from Mississippi where she relocated.
Pizani suggested that at the Christmas meeting members donate toys to Toys for Tots program instead of doing the usual gift exchange. The idea went over well and everyone agreed that was a good thing to do.
Mary Hirsh was able to get a garden of the month for the month of May. Her neighbor was so excited about getting the award in May that she wants to give a Tea for the club. Pizani added, “We can present the award to her the day of the tea. I encouraged anyone who could make it to make it since this lady is going out of her way to make a nice afternoon for us. I will announce the date shortly after we get confirmation from the homeowner.”
She reminded everyone about National Garden Week, which takes place the first week of June. Marilyn Wright is chairing this committee and will talk to the Library about letting us set up like the club has for the past couple of years. Margaret Bailey suggested that a sign up asking that the public take only two plants be displayed, so that more people will have access to the plants. Everyone agreed that was a good idea .
Hostesses for the meeting were Pizani, Virginia Hawkins and Vicky Fannaly. The final meeting of the garden club year will be the annual Banquet, to be held at Murphy’s Restaurant in Hammond. (Article by Susan Pizani)
April Garden of the Month
Susan and Tillman Pizani
Susan and Tillman Pizani, 13572 Rue Chateau, received April Garden of the Month honors for their creative landscapinng. Presented by Gardenettes, the Pizani's have been singled out for this distinction in the past.
The garden club belongs to District VI, Louisiana Garden Club Federation Inc., Deep South Garden Clubs Inc., and National Garden Clubs Inc. On hand to present the award to club president Susan Pizani were Sandy Cusick, Marilyn Wright, Margaret Bailey, Margaret Hardin, Mary Hirsch, Sonya Avery, Rose Husser, Kathy Bruce, Virginia Hawkins, Cynthia Cummer, Jamie LeBlanc and Ellen Pusey.
Cute, whimsical features and statuary adorn the colorfully planted flower beds. An array of hanging baskets and colorful bedding plants add to the charm of this backyard oasis. The couple haave vine covered arbors and topiary shrubs. Their open patio is equipped with a cooking area for lazy summer evenings. Pizani does all his own yardwork.
The garden club belongs to District VI, Louisiana Garden Club Federation Inc., Deep South Garden Clubs Inc., and National Garden Clubs Inc. On hand to present the award to club president Susan Pizani were Sandy Cusick, Marilyn Wright, Margaret Bailey, Margaret Hardin, Mary Hirsch, Sonya Avery, Rose Husser, Kathy Bruce, Virginia Hawkins, Cynthia Cummer, Jamie LeBlanc and Ellen Pusey.
Cute, whimsical features and statuary adorn the colorfully planted flower beds. An array of hanging baskets and colorful bedding plants add to the charm of this backyard oasis. The couple haave vine covered arbors and topiary shrubs. Their open patio is equipped with a cooking area for lazy summer evenings. Pizani does all his own yardwork.
Gardenettes Tour Covington Garden Club Flower Show
April 3, 2025
Gardenettes made a field trip to tour the Covington Garden Club's standard flower show "A Salute to Our National Parks" held at the Bogue Falaya Hall in Covington April 3.
Representing the Ponchatoula club were president Susan Pizani, Cynthia Cummer, Sandy Cusick, Jamie LeBlanc, and Darnell Kimber. Both Gardenettes and Covington Garden Club are members of District VI, Louisiana Garden Club Federation Inc., Deep South Garden Clubs Inc., and National Garden Clubs Inc.
Floral designs and horticulture were judged for freshness and how well they followed the specific guidelines outlined in the program. The event was attended by many area garden clubs and interested gardeners.
Representing the Ponchatoula club were president Susan Pizani, Cynthia Cummer, Sandy Cusick, Jamie LeBlanc, and Darnell Kimber. Both Gardenettes and Covington Garden Club are members of District VI, Louisiana Garden Club Federation Inc., Deep South Garden Clubs Inc., and National Garden Clubs Inc.
Floral designs and horticulture were judged for freshness and how well they followed the specific guidelines outlined in the program. The event was attended by many area garden clubs and interested gardeners.
March 2025
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February Garden of the Month: Hazel and Chance Enmon
360 South Fifth St.
Hazel and Chance Enmon, 360 South Fifth Street, received Garden of the Month honors for their lovely landscaping. Gardenettes presented the award March 21, congratulating the couple for a job well done.
Present for the award were Gardenettes Susan Pizani, Margaret Bailey, Cricket Ayala, Mary Hirsch, Kathy Bruce and Vicky Fannaly. The garden club belongs to District VI, Louisiana Garden Club Federation Inc., Deep South Garden Clubs Inc. and National Garden Clubs Inc.
Enmons said she had designed her garden in hopes of becoming Garden of the Month recipient at some future time. For her it was a wish granted. Grounds were designed by Tim Bailey with Maintenance Landscape Plus.
The stately live oaks on her property are enhanced with rock beds for drainage and other border features giving the grounds a well planned and groomed look. Azaleas and Aspidistra give color and greenery year round
Present for the award were Gardenettes Susan Pizani, Margaret Bailey, Cricket Ayala, Mary Hirsch, Kathy Bruce and Vicky Fannaly. The garden club belongs to District VI, Louisiana Garden Club Federation Inc., Deep South Garden Clubs Inc. and National Garden Clubs Inc.
Enmons said she had designed her garden in hopes of becoming Garden of the Month recipient at some future time. For her it was a wish granted. Grounds were designed by Tim Bailey with Maintenance Landscape Plus.
The stately live oaks on her property are enhanced with rock beds for drainage and other border features giving the grounds a well planned and groomed look. Azaleas and Aspidistra give color and greenery year round
March 12 Meeting
Floral arranging by Master Flower Show Judge Donna Moran highlighted the Gardenettes March 12 meeting held at the Strawberry Festival Board building in Memorial Park. Moran serves as Sixth District Director for the Louisiana Garden Club Federation Inc. to which the Ponchatoula club belongs.
Emphasis was on the difference between the traditional mass bouquet versus the more creative approach. Moran, a member of Covington Garden Club, brought a mass design and material to make a multidimensional floral exhibit. Moran's club and the Gardenettes belong to Deep South Garden Clubs Inc. and National Garden Clubs Inc. She invited the members to attend the Covington Garden Club's flower show "A Salute to our National Parks" April 3 from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. at Bogue Falaya Hall in Covington.
Hostesses for the meeting were Cricket Ayala and Margaret Bailey. President Susan Pizani opened the meeting with committee assignments for the upcoming year. She discussed a proposal to change the meeting time and refreshment format. The proposal passed, changing the meeting to an earlier time with minimal refreshments followed by a dutch treat lunch at a restaurant afterward.
Sunday Hanson began plans for the club's annual celebration of National Garden Week. She passed out containers and seeds for members to begin cultivating plants to be given out at the library. Vicky Fannaly offered to donate free gardening books for the weeklong event. The response from the community and recognition by National Garden Clubs Inc. encouraged the garden club to increase its usual offering.
Members present but not mentioned include Karen Hotard, Darnell Kimber, Marilyn Wright, Cynthia Cummer, Jamie Leblanc, Carol McGough, Mary Hirsch, Virginia Hawkins and Linda Fabre. Pizani will host the April meeting at her home, with Fannaly and Hawkins acting as co-hostesses.
Emphasis was on the difference between the traditional mass bouquet versus the more creative approach. Moran, a member of Covington Garden Club, brought a mass design and material to make a multidimensional floral exhibit. Moran's club and the Gardenettes belong to Deep South Garden Clubs Inc. and National Garden Clubs Inc. She invited the members to attend the Covington Garden Club's flower show "A Salute to our National Parks" April 3 from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. at Bogue Falaya Hall in Covington.
Hostesses for the meeting were Cricket Ayala and Margaret Bailey. President Susan Pizani opened the meeting with committee assignments for the upcoming year. She discussed a proposal to change the meeting time and refreshment format. The proposal passed, changing the meeting to an earlier time with minimal refreshments followed by a dutch treat lunch at a restaurant afterward.
Sunday Hanson began plans for the club's annual celebration of National Garden Week. She passed out containers and seeds for members to begin cultivating plants to be given out at the library. Vicky Fannaly offered to donate free gardening books for the weeklong event. The response from the community and recognition by National Garden Clubs Inc. encouraged the garden club to increase its usual offering.
Members present but not mentioned include Karen Hotard, Darnell Kimber, Marilyn Wright, Cynthia Cummer, Jamie Leblanc, Carol McGough, Mary Hirsch, Virginia Hawkins and Linda Fabre. Pizani will host the April meeting at her home, with Fannaly and Hawkins acting as co-hostesses.
February 2025
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Genesis Award - January / February
Jani-King Gulf Coast Corporate Office in Ponchatoula, received the Gardenettes' Genesis Award for January-February to applaud their landscaping efforts.
Gardenettes are a garden club are members of District VI Louisiana Garden Club Federation Inc., Deep South Garden Clubs Inc. and National Garden Clubs Inc.
Receiving the award were Karen Raiford, Comptroller; Melissa Stanga, VP of Finance; Margaret Bailey, Gardenettes; and Connie Drury, Franchise Accounting Manager. Eunice Lawn Care maintains all landscaping. Just a few of the plants are: Chinese privet, pink muhly grass, multiflora roses, American holly and creeping juniper.
Gardenettes are a garden club are members of District VI Louisiana Garden Club Federation Inc., Deep South Garden Clubs Inc. and National Garden Clubs Inc.
Receiving the award were Karen Raiford, Comptroller; Melissa Stanga, VP of Finance; Margaret Bailey, Gardenettes; and Connie Drury, Franchise Accounting Manager. Eunice Lawn Care maintains all landscaping. Just a few of the plants are: Chinese privet, pink muhly grass, multiflora roses, American holly and creeping juniper.
Gardenettes Attend February Joint Meeting
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Gardenettes, Ponchatoula, attended the annual Tangipahoa Joint Garden Club Meeting, February 12, at Joe's Italian Ristorante, hosted by Belle Oaks Garden Club, Hammond.
Both clubs are members of District VI, Louisiana Garden Club Inc., Deep South Garden Club Inc., and National Garden Clubs Inc. Also attending were District VI Director Donna Moran and members of Hammond Garden Club and Stem and Stamen Garden Club, Amite.
Guest speaker Patty Zebrick, Mandeville, addressed the theme "Louisiana - Our Wild Garden" with a her presentation “Why is everyone talking about Native Plants.” Zebrick is president and a founding member of Wild Ones Pontchartrain Basin, an organization dedicated to use of native plants in naturalizing gardens.
Over fifty gardeners from the four local clubs enjoyed the annual fellowship provided by Belle Oaks members. Raffles, prizes and sale plants were offered by the host club.
Both clubs are members of District VI, Louisiana Garden Club Inc., Deep South Garden Club Inc., and National Garden Clubs Inc. Also attending were District VI Director Donna Moran and members of Hammond Garden Club and Stem and Stamen Garden Club, Amite.
Guest speaker Patty Zebrick, Mandeville, addressed the theme "Louisiana - Our Wild Garden" with a her presentation “Why is everyone talking about Native Plants.” Zebrick is president and a founding member of Wild Ones Pontchartrain Basin, an organization dedicated to use of native plants in naturalizing gardens.
Over fifty gardeners from the four local clubs enjoyed the annual fellowship provided by Belle Oaks members. Raffles, prizes and sale plants were offered by the host club.
January 2025
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Covington Style Show Luncheon - January 30, 2025
Gardenettes Mary Hirsch and Susan Pizani attended the Covington Garden Club's Glitz & Glamour, held at the Bogue Falaya Hall in Covington, January 3. Both Gardenettes and Covington Garden Club are members of District VI, Louisiana Garden Club Federation Inc., Deep South Garden Clubs Inc. and National Garden Club Inc.
Arbor Day - January 16, 2025
Gardenettes Mary Hirsch, Margaret Bailey, president Susan Pizani, arbor day chairman Sunday Hanson, Marilyn Wright, Sandy Cusick and Mayor Wesley Daniels
In honor of Arbor Day, Gardenettes presented a large live oak to the City of Ponchatoula on January 16. Mayor Wesley Daniels received the tree and plans to locate it in Memorial Park.
Gardenettes are members of District VI, Louisiana Garden Club Federation Inc., Deep South Garden Clubs Inc. and National Garden Clubs Inc.
The local garden club has celebrated Arbor Day annually with a small ceremony since the group's founding in 1942. Last year, a fourth Shumard Oak was planted at Memorial Park.
Gardenettes are members of District VI, Louisiana Garden Club Federation Inc., Deep South Garden Clubs Inc. and National Garden Clubs Inc.
The local garden club has celebrated Arbor Day annually with a small ceremony since the group's founding in 1942. Last year, a fourth Shumard Oak was planted at Memorial Park.
January Garden of the Month: Sue Davis
Gardenettes Darnell Kimber, Karen Hotard, Sandy Cussick, President Susan Pizani, Homeowner Sue Davis, Gardenettes Marilyn Wright, Kathy Bruce, Margaret Bailey, Ellen Pusey. Photo by Cricket Ayala
Sue Davis, 725 Weinberger Road, received Garden of the Month for January from the Gardenettes January 8. According to chairman Marilyn Wright, it was difficult finding a blooming garden after the recent freezes.
Founded in 1942, Gardenettes are members of District VI, Louisiana Garden Club Federation Inc., Deep South Garden Clubs Inc. and National Garden Clubs Inc.
Marilyn Wright, Garden of the Month chairman, reported she selected the lovely garden belonging to Davis. She invited club members to gather there after the meeting so they could view this beautiful spot. Wright announced that she is giving up garden of the month and need someone to replace her as chairman of this committee. Hirsch and Pusey said they would both be on the committee.
Founded in 1942, Gardenettes are members of District VI, Louisiana Garden Club Federation Inc., Deep South Garden Clubs Inc. and National Garden Clubs Inc.
Marilyn Wright, Garden of the Month chairman, reported she selected the lovely garden belonging to Davis. She invited club members to gather there after the meeting so they could view this beautiful spot. Wright announced that she is giving up garden of the month and need someone to replace her as chairman of this committee. Hirsch and Pusey said they would both be on the committee.
Meeting - January 8, 2025
Virginia Hawkins, Master Gardener and member of both Belle Oaks and Gardenettes, presented her method of cold stratification for winter growing seeds. Virginia addressed the Gardenettes at their January 8 meeting held at the Strawberry Board Building in Memorial Park.
Some seeds like larkspur, foxglove, artichokes, and black eyed Susans need chilling either in a refrigerator or outdoors to germinate. Hawkins uses plastic milk and water jugs cut in half and taped to make mini greenhouses to place outdoors with the caps off. She has had much success with these hard-to-sprout seeds with her method.
According to Susan Pizani, Gardenette president, “Virginia has already started a few jugs of seeds and passed them around so we could see the results. It was really fun to peek through the top of the milk bottle and see the little plants starting to grow.”
Founded in 1942, Gardenettes are members of District VI, Louisiana Garden Club Federation Inc., Deep South Garden Clubs Inc. and National Garden Clubs Inc.
Co-hostesses for the meeting were Mary Hirsch, Karen Hotard and Sunday Hanson. They provided door prizes for the event. Ellen Pusey gave the treasurer’s report, followed by corresponding secretary Cynthia Cummer who sent greetings to several members on their birthdays in December and only one in January.
Bosom Buddy Bag chairman, Karen Hotard, asked members for fabric to make these drain holding bags for cancer and surgery patients at North Oaks Hospital. During the nine years the club has been doing this hundreds of cheerfully patterned bags have been stitched and donated. Hotard brought a guest, Darnell Kimber, who joined the club.
Cricket Ayala said that she was giving up the chairmanship of the Genesis award for next year. Members were asked to think about who may want to take over the Genesis selection. Ayala explained to members what was needed in giving out the honor. Sunday Hanson, who is in charge of Arbor Day has contacted the mayor’s office a couple of times, but still has not received a response. She will give the date as soon as she knows.
Pizani reminded everyone of the joint meeting coming up next month being held by the Belle Oaks Garden Club. The meeting will be at Joe’s, and there is a twenty dollar fee for lunch. She also requested that everyone let her know who would be going so that she can pass the information on to the Belle Oaks Garden Club.
Some seeds like larkspur, foxglove, artichokes, and black eyed Susans need chilling either in a refrigerator or outdoors to germinate. Hawkins uses plastic milk and water jugs cut in half and taped to make mini greenhouses to place outdoors with the caps off. She has had much success with these hard-to-sprout seeds with her method.
According to Susan Pizani, Gardenette president, “Virginia has already started a few jugs of seeds and passed them around so we could see the results. It was really fun to peek through the top of the milk bottle and see the little plants starting to grow.”
Founded in 1942, Gardenettes are members of District VI, Louisiana Garden Club Federation Inc., Deep South Garden Clubs Inc. and National Garden Clubs Inc.
Co-hostesses for the meeting were Mary Hirsch, Karen Hotard and Sunday Hanson. They provided door prizes for the event. Ellen Pusey gave the treasurer’s report, followed by corresponding secretary Cynthia Cummer who sent greetings to several members on their birthdays in December and only one in January.
Bosom Buddy Bag chairman, Karen Hotard, asked members for fabric to make these drain holding bags for cancer and surgery patients at North Oaks Hospital. During the nine years the club has been doing this hundreds of cheerfully patterned bags have been stitched and donated. Hotard brought a guest, Darnell Kimber, who joined the club.
Cricket Ayala said that she was giving up the chairmanship of the Genesis award for next year. Members were asked to think about who may want to take over the Genesis selection. Ayala explained to members what was needed in giving out the honor. Sunday Hanson, who is in charge of Arbor Day has contacted the mayor’s office a couple of times, but still has not received a response. She will give the date as soon as she knows.
Pizani reminded everyone of the joint meeting coming up next month being held by the Belle Oaks Garden Club. The meeting will be at Joe’s, and there is a twenty dollar fee for lunch. She also requested that everyone let her know who would be going so that she can pass the information on to the Belle Oaks Garden Club.
December 2024
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New Master Gardener!Gardenettes member Virginia Hawkins graduated from the Master Gardeners course today in a ceremony at the Hammond Research Station. Shown on the left is Sandy Grimm, president of Tangipahoa Master Gardeners and president of Belle Oaks of which Virginia is also a member. Both Gardenettes and Belle Oaks are members of District VI Louisiana Garden Club Federation Inc., Deep South Garden Clubs, Inc. , and National Garden Clubs Inc.
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Gardenettes Christmas Party, December 11, 2024
Gardenettes celebrate their 82nd annual Christmas Party at Millside Restaurant in Ponchatoula. A member of District VI Louisiana Garden Club Federation Inc., Deep South Garden Clubs Inc., and National Garden Clubs Inc., the club works to further civic causes as well as instilling a love for beautification through floral awareness, conservation and horticulture.
Garden of the Month - Linda and Stacey Fabre
191 S. Second Street, December 11, 2024
Linda and Stacey Fabre, 191 South Second Street, received December Garden of the Month honors from the Gardenettes. The garden club belongs to District VI, Louisiana Garden Club Federation Inc., Deep South Garden Clubs Inc. and National Garden Clubs Inc.
At the home of the Fabre's stand magnificent evergreen cypress trees which is, as Stacy puts it, "the reason we bought this house!" According to Garden of the Month chairman, Marilyn Wright, the garden is such a beautiful mixture of flowers including mini gardenias, giant marigolds, bleeding hearts, and Mona lavendar plants that tolerate all seasons.
In addition to their Lantana, holly, Purslane and caladiums in the summer, they have zinnias and wildflowers as well. The Fabres are very interested in wildlife and pollination. Wright added the Gardenettes were delighted to find such a lovely garden to honor.
At the home of the Fabre's stand magnificent evergreen cypress trees which is, as Stacy puts it, "the reason we bought this house!" According to Garden of the Month chairman, Marilyn Wright, the garden is such a beautiful mixture of flowers including mini gardenias, giant marigolds, bleeding hearts, and Mona lavendar plants that tolerate all seasons.
In addition to their Lantana, holly, Purslane and caladiums in the summer, they have zinnias and wildflowers as well. The Fabres are very interested in wildlife and pollination. Wright added the Gardenettes were delighted to find such a lovely garden to honor.
North Oaks Medical Center Tree Decorating
December 2, 2024
Gardenettes decorated the tree in the lobby at North Oaks Medical Center December 2. This annual event was coordinated by chairman Carol McGough and president Susan Pizani.
The club belongs to District VI, Louisiana Garden Club Federation Inc., Deep South Garden Clubs Inc. and National Garden Club Inc. Members attending included McGough, Pizani, Vicky Fannaly, Cricket Ayala, Sandy Cusick, Karen Hotard, Cynthia Cummer, Jamie LeBlanc
Trimming the tree at the hospital is a longstanding tradition which marks the beginning of the club's holiday season. Members celebrated the event with lunch at Olive Garden before heading to the hospital complex.
The club belongs to District VI, Louisiana Garden Club Federation Inc., Deep South Garden Clubs Inc. and National Garden Club Inc. Members attending included McGough, Pizani, Vicky Fannaly, Cricket Ayala, Sandy Cusick, Karen Hotard, Cynthia Cummer, Jamie LeBlanc
Trimming the tree at the hospital is a longstanding tradition which marks the beginning of the club's holiday season. Members celebrated the event with lunch at Olive Garden before heading to the hospital complex.
November 2024
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Patricia Landaiche - 385 West Chestnut Street
November 23, 2024
Patricia Landaiche, 385 West Chestnut Street, received Garden of the Month from the Gardenettes, November 23. The garden club also included Andrea Wheat, owner of this family home and designer of the landscape.
The Garden of the Month committee was represented by Marilyn Wright, Margaret Bailey and Cricket Ayala. The club belongs to District VI, Louisiana Garden Club Federation Inc., Deep South Garden Clubs Inc. and National Garden Club Inc.
Roses, various grasses, Distylium, azaleas and Liriope surround the home. Sweet olive and magnolias are accents in the flower beds. Large pots of fern are on the steps and seasonal Chrysanthemum are accents.
The Garden of the Month committee was represented by Marilyn Wright, Margaret Bailey and Cricket Ayala. The club belongs to District VI, Louisiana Garden Club Federation Inc., Deep South Garden Clubs Inc. and National Garden Club Inc.
Roses, various grasses, Distylium, azaleas and Liriope surround the home. Sweet olive and magnolias are accents in the flower beds. Large pots of fern are on the steps and seasonal Chrysanthemum are accents.
November 13, 2024 Meeting
A tour of the 2025 Philadelphia PA Flower Show, the nation's largest and longest run horticultural event, was shown by Gardenette Vicky Fannaly, to her club at their November 13 meeting, held at the Strawberry Board Building in Memorial Park. The presentation featured horticulture and large scale floral designs for store windows, dining events and outdoor displays.
Fannaly pointed out that horticulture specimens by non-affilaited home gardeners were eliible to be displayed and judged. Gardenettes are members of District VI, Louisiana Garden Club Federation Inc., Deep South Garden Clubs Inc. and National Garden Clubs Inc.
Hostesses for the meeting were Carol McGough and Ellen Pusey. They provided the food, decorations and door prizes for the meeting. President Susan Pizani opened the meeting with reports from the officers and chairmen. Garden of the Month and Genesis recipients have been selected and will be announced when the club can complete their presentation of these awards.
Sunday Hanson gave a recap of the recent District VI Fall Meeting held in Gonzales. She mentioned the changes announced by the state president such as the sale of the long time state headquarters building, program name changes and the scholarships available for students who qualify.
Plans for the December Christmas meeting were made. The club voted to move the location to a restaurant instead of a home.
Fannaly pointed out that horticulture specimens by non-affilaited home gardeners were eliible to be displayed and judged. Gardenettes are members of District VI, Louisiana Garden Club Federation Inc., Deep South Garden Clubs Inc. and National Garden Clubs Inc.
Hostesses for the meeting were Carol McGough and Ellen Pusey. They provided the food, decorations and door prizes for the meeting. President Susan Pizani opened the meeting with reports from the officers and chairmen. Garden of the Month and Genesis recipients have been selected and will be announced when the club can complete their presentation of these awards.
Sunday Hanson gave a recap of the recent District VI Fall Meeting held in Gonzales. She mentioned the changes announced by the state president such as the sale of the long time state headquarters building, program name changes and the scholarships available for students who qualify.
Plans for the December Christmas meeting were made. The club voted to move the location to a restaurant instead of a home.
October 2024
Click for Gardenettes October 2024 Newsletter
District Fall Meetings
Gardenettes attended Fall District VI, II, III Meetings in Gonzales, St. Martinville and New Orleans. All clubs are members of Louisiana Garden Club Federation Inc., Deep South Garden Clubs Inc. and National Garden Clubs Inc. Lots of important information, Circle of Roses awards and interesting guest speakers highlighted the festivities.
Autumn Cauley, 562 W. McClellan St.
Garden of the Month - October 9, 2024
Autumn Cauley, 562 W. McClellan St., received Garden of the Month honors from the Gardenettes October 9. The club is a member of District VI, Louisiana Garden Club Federation Inc., Deep South Garden Clubs Inc., and National Garden Clubs Inc.
Cauley, who does her own yard maintenance, was selected for her colorful display of various types of ginger plants, coleus and clever use of yard art, according to Marilyn Wright, chairman for the Garden of the Month program.
"The cheerful colors displayed, catch your eye as you pass," said Wright. "We were pleased to find such an enthusiastic gardener to receive this award."
Cauley, who does her own yard maintenance, was selected for her colorful display of various types of ginger plants, coleus and clever use of yard art, according to Marilyn Wright, chairman for the Garden of the Month program.
"The cheerful colors displayed, catch your eye as you pass," said Wright. "We were pleased to find such an enthusiastic gardener to receive this award."
Genesis Award - Smith's Nursery
October 9, 2024
Gardenettes presented the October-November Genesis Award for commercial landscaping to Smith’s Nursery, 19355 Hwy. 22 East, on October 9. Brandon Smith accepted the plaque for the landscaping business from Cricket Ayala, Gardenette chairman.
The Gardenettes are members of District VI, Louisiana Garden Club Federation Inc., Deep South Garden Clubs, Inc. and National Garden Clubs Inc.
Pictured are Brad Smith, Brock Smith, Roxanne Smith, Cricket Ayala, Marilyn Wright, Margaret Bailey, Brandon Smith accepting the plaque, Mary Hirsch, Cynthia Cummer, president Susan Pizani, Sandy Cusick, Mellie Singer, Ellen Pusey - photo by Vicky Fannaly.
This was the second win for the business. Smith’s Nursery also received the Genesis Award for March, April 2022. Given to commercial groups whose floral plantings are interesting and attractive, the award was presented by Gardenettes Ayala, Marilyn Wright, Margaret Bailey, Mary Hirsch, Cynthia Cummer, president Susan Pizani, Sandy Cusick, Mellie Singer, Ellen Pusey and Vicky Fannaly. The nursery was represented by Brad Smith, Brock Smith and Roxanne Smith.
Smith's has expanded their business to include many novelty decorative items as well as its vast selection of beautiful plants, according to Ayala. Our club was pleased to recognize the accomplishments of this popular business.
The Gardenettes are members of District VI, Louisiana Garden Club Federation Inc., Deep South Garden Clubs, Inc. and National Garden Clubs Inc.
Pictured are Brad Smith, Brock Smith, Roxanne Smith, Cricket Ayala, Marilyn Wright, Margaret Bailey, Brandon Smith accepting the plaque, Mary Hirsch, Cynthia Cummer, president Susan Pizani, Sandy Cusick, Mellie Singer, Ellen Pusey - photo by Vicky Fannaly.
This was the second win for the business. Smith’s Nursery also received the Genesis Award for March, April 2022. Given to commercial groups whose floral plantings are interesting and attractive, the award was presented by Gardenettes Ayala, Marilyn Wright, Margaret Bailey, Mary Hirsch, Cynthia Cummer, president Susan Pizani, Sandy Cusick, Mellie Singer, Ellen Pusey and Vicky Fannaly. The nursery was represented by Brad Smith, Brock Smith and Roxanne Smith.
Smith's has expanded their business to include many novelty decorative items as well as its vast selection of beautiful plants, according to Ayala. Our club was pleased to recognize the accomplishments of this popular business.
Gardenettes Meeting - October 9, 2024
Gardenettes held a large plant exchange as focus of their October 9 meeting held at the Strawberry Board Building. Because the September meeting was cancelled due to hurricane conditions, the group had a lot of business to discuss including awarding Garden of the Month and Genesis landscaping honors.
The garden club is a member of District VI, Louisiana Garden Club Federation inc., Deep South Garden Clubs Inc. and National Garen Clubs Inc.
President Susan Pizani opened the business meeting following a presentation by Margaret Bailey on club activities from past times. Garden of the Month chairman Marilyn Wright selected Autumn Cauley, 562 McClellan St. to receive the gardening award for her colorful flower beds and eye-catching yard art. Cricket Ayala, Genesis chairman, picked Smith's Nursery for best commercial landscaping. Club members gathered at both locations following the meeting to make the presentations.
Hostesses for the event included Sandy Cusick, Cynthia Cummer, Jamie LeBlanc and Marilyn Wright. Rose Ann Husser, a member who is having health issues, was voted in as an Honorary Member, giving her the privilege to attend when she is able with no active member responsibilities. Treasurer Ellen Pusey gave her report on club finances. Members extended birthday greetings to member Sunday Hanson.
The club considered a proposal to move the meeting to an earlier time. Members collected many pass-along plants from their gardens to share with other club members. Many plants were left over and given to members of the Belle Oaks Garden Club who met later on the same day at the home of member Vicky Fannaly.
The garden club is a member of District VI, Louisiana Garden Club Federation inc., Deep South Garden Clubs Inc. and National Garen Clubs Inc.
President Susan Pizani opened the business meeting following a presentation by Margaret Bailey on club activities from past times. Garden of the Month chairman Marilyn Wright selected Autumn Cauley, 562 McClellan St. to receive the gardening award for her colorful flower beds and eye-catching yard art. Cricket Ayala, Genesis chairman, picked Smith's Nursery for best commercial landscaping. Club members gathered at both locations following the meeting to make the presentations.
Hostesses for the event included Sandy Cusick, Cynthia Cummer, Jamie LeBlanc and Marilyn Wright. Rose Ann Husser, a member who is having health issues, was voted in as an Honorary Member, giving her the privilege to attend when she is able with no active member responsibilities. Treasurer Ellen Pusey gave her report on club finances. Members extended birthday greetings to member Sunday Hanson.
The club considered a proposal to move the meeting to an earlier time. Members collected many pass-along plants from their gardens to share with other club members. Many plants were left over and given to members of the Belle Oaks Garden Club who met later on the same day at the home of member Vicky Fannaly.
44 Bosom Buddy Bags - 10/2/2024
Karen Hotard delivered 44 Bosom Buddy bags to North Oaks Hospital October 2. This brings her total for this year to 164. What a lot of work for a committee chairman to accomplish. Pictured accepting the bags for surgery patients is Staci Arceneaux of North Oaks Hospital System.
Gardenettes garden club is a member of District VI, Louisiana Garden Club Federation Inc., Deep South Garden Clubs Inc. and National Garden Clubs Inc.
The garden club has provided these cheerful bags for over ten years initially for breast cancer patients but found many other surgery patients enjoy using them to carry their drip bags. The bags are stitched from colorful material of all patterns.
Gardenettes garden club is a member of District VI, Louisiana Garden Club Federation Inc., Deep South Garden Clubs Inc. and National Garden Clubs Inc.
The garden club has provided these cheerful bags for over ten years initially for breast cancer patients but found many other surgery patients enjoy using them to carry their drip bags. The bags are stitched from colorful material of all patterns.
September 2024
Click for Gardenettes September 2024 Newsletter
Sea Turtle Rescue: A Visit to Sea Turtle Inc. in South Padre Island, Texas - September 2024
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Gardenette Mellie Singer, chairman of the Birds, Butterflies and Conservation committee, last month, while on vacation in South Padre Island, Texas, had the incredible opportunity to visit Sea Turtle Inc., a sea turtle rescue and rehabilitation center. She was profoundly impressed by the dedication and impact of this organization. Gardenettes are members of District VI, Louisiana Garden Club Federation Inc., Deep South Garden Clubs Inc., and National Garden Clubs Inc.
Sea Turtle Inc. was originally founded in 1977 by Ila Fox Loetscher, affectionately known as “The Turtle Lady of South Padre Island.” Her passion for sea turtles led to the creation of this remarkable center, which continues to thrive today. As of 2024, the facility has rescued and released 931 sea turtles, protected and released 3,439 hatchlings, responded to 640 emergency turtle calls, and educated 82,439 visitors. The center’s vision is “a world with thriving sea turtle populations,” and their work focuses on turtle conservation, medical care, applied research, and public education.
The Challenges Sea Turtles Face
Sea turtles become stranded for several reasons, including:
- Predators
- Entanglement in nets and fishing lines
- Boat strikes
- Plastic consumption
- Sudden cold weather
Sea Turtle Inc. receives no government funding and relies entirely on public donations, center tours, and gift shop sales. During my visit, I learned about three of their most notable rescue stories.
Fred: The Persistent Loggerhead
Fred, a loggerhead turtle, was found stranded at a local port in 1996, entangled in netting, with his left front flipper amputated. After receiving medical care, Fred was released twice in 1997, but he was re-stranded both times. The staff at Sea Turtle Inc. determined that he was no longer releasable, so Fred lived the rest of his life at the rescue center. Known for his calm and docile personality, Fred loved having his shell rubbed by staff and volunteers. He became a visitor favorite and brought in many donations, helping to keep the center active and successful.
Allison: The Trailblazer with a Prosthetic Flipper
Allison, an Atlantic Green Sea Turtle, was rescued in 2005 after losing three of her four flippers in a predator attack. The rescue center designed and fitted her with a prosthetic flipper, enabling her to move around in the water and enjoy a good quality of life, despite being deemed unreleasable. Allison was known for splashing water at visitors as she waved to them and played a key role in advancing prosthetic design for future sea turtles with amputated flippers.
Cowgirl: The Country Music Lover
Cowgirl, another Atlantic Green Sea Turtle, was found stranded in 2021, weighing just over 2 pounds. Despite normal blood work and X-rays, she was re-stranded multiple times after being released. Eventually, the medical experts at Sea Turtle Inc. decided she was unreleasable and provided her with permanent lodging at the center. Now weighing 60 pounds, Cowgirl is thriving, enjoying her favorite food—mackerel—and spending her days listening to country music, which she loves.
A Lasting Impression
My visit to Sea Turtle Inc. left me deeply impressed by the dedication of the staff and educators, who were eager to share their knowledge and encourage visitors to support the center through turtle adoption or donations toward medical expenses. The center is located in southern Texas, just 30 minutes from the border with Mexico, and offers an unforgettable experience for anyone interested in wildlife conservation.
For those in Louisiana, turtle rescue assistance is available through the LSU Wildlife Hospital in Baton Rouge. If you encounter a stranded turtle or one in need of help, you can call them at 225-578-9600 for assistance.
FOR MORE INFORMATION ON SEA TURTLES INC. CLICK HERE
Sea Turtle Inc. was originally founded in 1977 by Ila Fox Loetscher, affectionately known as “The Turtle Lady of South Padre Island.” Her passion for sea turtles led to the creation of this remarkable center, which continues to thrive today. As of 2024, the facility has rescued and released 931 sea turtles, protected and released 3,439 hatchlings, responded to 640 emergency turtle calls, and educated 82,439 visitors. The center’s vision is “a world with thriving sea turtle populations,” and their work focuses on turtle conservation, medical care, applied research, and public education.
The Challenges Sea Turtles Face
Sea turtles become stranded for several reasons, including:
- Predators
- Entanglement in nets and fishing lines
- Boat strikes
- Plastic consumption
- Sudden cold weather
Sea Turtle Inc. receives no government funding and relies entirely on public donations, center tours, and gift shop sales. During my visit, I learned about three of their most notable rescue stories.
Fred: The Persistent Loggerhead
Fred, a loggerhead turtle, was found stranded at a local port in 1996, entangled in netting, with his left front flipper amputated. After receiving medical care, Fred was released twice in 1997, but he was re-stranded both times. The staff at Sea Turtle Inc. determined that he was no longer releasable, so Fred lived the rest of his life at the rescue center. Known for his calm and docile personality, Fred loved having his shell rubbed by staff and volunteers. He became a visitor favorite and brought in many donations, helping to keep the center active and successful.
Allison: The Trailblazer with a Prosthetic Flipper
Allison, an Atlantic Green Sea Turtle, was rescued in 2005 after losing three of her four flippers in a predator attack. The rescue center designed and fitted her with a prosthetic flipper, enabling her to move around in the water and enjoy a good quality of life, despite being deemed unreleasable. Allison was known for splashing water at visitors as she waved to them and played a key role in advancing prosthetic design for future sea turtles with amputated flippers.
Cowgirl: The Country Music Lover
Cowgirl, another Atlantic Green Sea Turtle, was found stranded in 2021, weighing just over 2 pounds. Despite normal blood work and X-rays, she was re-stranded multiple times after being released. Eventually, the medical experts at Sea Turtle Inc. decided she was unreleasable and provided her with permanent lodging at the center. Now weighing 60 pounds, Cowgirl is thriving, enjoying her favorite food—mackerel—and spending her days listening to country music, which she loves.
A Lasting Impression
My visit to Sea Turtle Inc. left me deeply impressed by the dedication of the staff and educators, who were eager to share their knowledge and encourage visitors to support the center through turtle adoption or donations toward medical expenses. The center is located in southern Texas, just 30 minutes from the border with Mexico, and offers an unforgettable experience for anyone interested in wildlife conservation.
For those in Louisiana, turtle rescue assistance is available through the LSU Wildlife Hospital in Baton Rouge. If you encounter a stranded turtle or one in need of help, you can call them at 225-578-9600 for assistance.
FOR MORE INFORMATION ON SEA TURTLES INC. CLICK HERE
August 2024
Click for Gardenettes August 2024 Newsletter
Melly Singer: Uniting Through Nature - August
Gardenette Mellie Singer, chairman of the Birds, Butterflies and Conservation committee, recently ventured to Baton Rouge to attend a Uniting Through Nature initiative. Gardenettes are members of District VI, Louisiana Garden Club Federation Inc., Deep South Garden Clubs Inc., and National Garden Clubs Inc.
On Saturday, June 22, 2024, Singer joined a lively group of local birdwatchers for the first annual “Black Birding Week” hike at Greenwood Park in north Baton Rouge. The birding hike was led by Jane Patterson, the president of the Baton Rouge Audubon Society.
The focus of this adventure was to introduce members of the Black community, as well as other people of color, to the joys of bird watching. This initiative was inspired by an event in May 2020 in New York, where a Black birdwatcher was falsely accused of threatening a woman walking her dog in Central Park. The local birdwatching community in Baton Rouge wanted to show solidarity and encourage birdwatching across all races, uniting us and introducing birdwatching skills to the curious.
According to Singer, we met at 8 am for a two-hour paved hike around the lake by the park. Binoculars were supplied to everyone who needed a pair. We were introduced to the art of birding by initially listening to the birdsongs. At first, all we could hear were car engines and various emergency sirens. When we quieted ourselves and listened harder, we could hear the birds too. The hike leaders could recognize the birdsongs easily. Once they had determined the identity of each bird, they pinpointed the direction of the song until they saw the actual bird, often far off. They taught us to use binoculars to zero in, and finally, we looked through a special birding telescope lens they had set up to get an incredibly clear view of the individual birds.
We heard and identified 35 different species of birds in total, from the Cardinal to the Mockingbird to the Turkey Vulture to the Mississippi Kite. They were all there, dancing among the treetops, and foraging for food as they raised their youngsters. We learned about how different species of smaller birds (like Blue Jays and Swallows) band together to surround and ward off larger, more predatory birds (like Screech-owls and Hawks) who threaten their territory. This is called “mobbing” and is a common practice in bird communities.
The two-hour hike went by quickly, and our group disbanded and went home. Fortunately, thanks to the Baton Rouge Audubon Society, we were all given information on upcoming guided birding walks and educational programs so we can continue to explore, study, and appreciate the wild birds of Louisiana.
On Saturday, June 22, 2024, Singer joined a lively group of local birdwatchers for the first annual “Black Birding Week” hike at Greenwood Park in north Baton Rouge. The birding hike was led by Jane Patterson, the president of the Baton Rouge Audubon Society.
The focus of this adventure was to introduce members of the Black community, as well as other people of color, to the joys of bird watching. This initiative was inspired by an event in May 2020 in New York, where a Black birdwatcher was falsely accused of threatening a woman walking her dog in Central Park. The local birdwatching community in Baton Rouge wanted to show solidarity and encourage birdwatching across all races, uniting us and introducing birdwatching skills to the curious.
According to Singer, we met at 8 am for a two-hour paved hike around the lake by the park. Binoculars were supplied to everyone who needed a pair. We were introduced to the art of birding by initially listening to the birdsongs. At first, all we could hear were car engines and various emergency sirens. When we quieted ourselves and listened harder, we could hear the birds too. The hike leaders could recognize the birdsongs easily. Once they had determined the identity of each bird, they pinpointed the direction of the song until they saw the actual bird, often far off. They taught us to use binoculars to zero in, and finally, we looked through a special birding telescope lens they had set up to get an incredibly clear view of the individual birds.
We heard and identified 35 different species of birds in total, from the Cardinal to the Mockingbird to the Turkey Vulture to the Mississippi Kite. They were all there, dancing among the treetops, and foraging for food as they raised their youngsters. We learned about how different species of smaller birds (like Blue Jays and Swallows) band together to surround and ward off larger, more predatory birds (like Screech-owls and Hawks) who threaten their territory. This is called “mobbing” and is a common practice in bird communities.
The two-hour hike went by quickly, and our group disbanded and went home. Fortunately, thanks to the Baton Rouge Audubon Society, we were all given information on upcoming guided birding walks and educational programs so we can continue to explore, study, and appreciate the wild birds of Louisiana.
Martha Davis - Garden of the Month - August 7, 2024
Garden of the Month for August: Carol McGough, Sunday Hanson, Vicky Fannaly, Susan Pizani, Martha Davis, Margaret Bailey, Sandy Cusick, Jamie LeBlanc, Marilyn Wright.
Martha Davis, 40117 Annette Drive, received Gardenettes Garden of the Month honors on August 7. The club belongs to District VI, Louisiana Garden Club Federation Inc., Deep South Garden Clubs Inc. and National Garden Clubs Inc.
Representing the club were chairman Marilyn Wright, president Susan Pizani, photographer Cricket Ayala, Margaret Bailey, Carol McGough, Sunday Hanson, Jamie LeBlanc, Sandy Cusick and Vicky Fannaly.
According Wright, the eye-catching flower beds are lined with white bedding rocks to bring out the color of the blooming plants. Davis uses roses for color as well as ornamental garden accents depicting butterflies, gazing balls and ornamental picket fencing. A shady sitting area with a glider and benches allows Davis to enjoy her hard work.in comfort.
Variegated flax lilies, blooming vinca, sego palms, coleus fill the well designed beds. Whimsical touchs like a concrete dog statue with sunglasses and colored swathes of rocks both red and white, show Davis's imagination and planning.
Following the presentation, the club members attending, had breakfast at Paul's Cafe
Martha Davis, 40117 Annette Drive, received Gardenettes Garden of the Month honors on August 7. The club belongs to District VI, Louisiana Garden Club Federation Inc., Deep South Garden Clubs Inc. and National Garden Clubs Inc.
Representing the club were chairman Marilyn Wright, president Susan Pizani, photographer Cricket Ayala, Margaret Bailey, Carol McGough, Sunday Hanson, Jamie LeBlanc, Sandy Cusick and Vicky Fannaly.
According Wright, the eye-catching flower beds are lined with white bedding rocks to bring out the color of the blooming plants. Davis uses roses for color as well as ornamental garden accents depicting butterflies, gazing balls and ornamental picket fencing. A shady sitting area with a glider and benches allows Davis to enjoy her hard work.in comfort.
Variegated flax lilies, blooming vinca, sego palms, coleus fill the well designed beds. Whimsical touchs like a concrete dog statue with sunglasses and colored swathes of rocks both red and white, show Davis's imagination and planning.
Following the presentation, the club members attending, had breakfast at Paul's Cafe
July 2024
Click for Gardenettes July 2024 Newsletter
Melly Singer: Meet GeoDad
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FROM THE BIRD, BUTTERFLY & CONSERVATION COMMITTEE: I spent a day recently at the Bluebonnet Swamp and Nature Center in Baton Rouge. I learned the story of GeoDad, the Yellow Warbler.
Gardenettes are members of District VI, Louisiana Garden Club Federation Inc., Deep South Garden Clubs Inc. and National Garden Clubs Inc. GeoDad was a Prothonotary Warbler, just 5 inches in length, bright yellow in color, who lived at The Bluebonnet Swamp Nature Center for the first year of his life in 2012. Researchers there trapped him briefly and attached a tiny tracking device to his back. They then released him back into the wild. Their plan was to track his journey over the next year to help explore the migratory pattern of the declining Warbler population. GeoDad took off from the Baton Rouge swamplands and spent 8 months with the geolocation on his back. In that 8 months he journeyed 4,800 miles across 7 countries. He flew over a 500 mile stretch of the Gulf of Mexico and wintered in Northern Colombia in Central America, before returning to his home in Baton Rouge. Bird conservation |
Bird conservation researchers across the world were very excited to see his progress. The rate of decline of the Warbler population has been 50% over the last 40 years. This is partly due to reduction in their natural habitat which is shrinking both in USA and Colombia.
Warblers have beaks that are ill suited to making their own nests so they usually live in homes vacated by woodpeckers. The Bluebonnet Swam Nature Center in Baton Rouge is putting up man made nesting boxes to expand the local Warbler population, many of whom are probably direct descendants of GeoDad!
For those looking for a good day out, I highly recommend this nature center in Baton Rouge, the nature center there is very interesting and the staff are helpful and engaging.
Warblers have beaks that are ill suited to making their own nests so they usually live in homes vacated by woodpeckers. The Bluebonnet Swam Nature Center in Baton Rouge is putting up man made nesting boxes to expand the local Warbler population, many of whom are probably direct descendants of GeoDad!
For those looking for a good day out, I highly recommend this nature center in Baton Rouge, the nature center there is very interesting and the staff are helpful and engaging.
Orchid Society Show Field Trip - July 15, 2024
Gardenette Field Trip to Baton Rouge Orchid Society Show July 14 at the Rural Life Museum in Baton Rouge. Our president Susan Pizani, Jamie LeBlanc and Vicky Fannaly made the vendors happy and came home with some reasonably priced bargains. Flowers were fantastic, making a favorite choice very difficult. Gardenettes are members of Deep South Garden Clubs Inc., District VI - Louisiana Garden Club Federation Inc., and National Garden Clubs Inc.
Genesis Award July-August <<<>>> Sonic Drive In
Sonic Drive In received the Genesis Award for July-August from the Gardenettes, a Ponchatoula garden club. Sonic manager Zoe Ungren accepted the plaque July 3 for the location's well maintained landscape filled with bright blooming Vinca.
Gardenettes are members of Disrict VI, Louisiana Garden Club Federation Inc., Deep South Garden Clubs Inc. and National Garden Clubs Inc.
According to Ayala, the landscaping is maintained by Landscape Plus. Some of the permanent plantings include boxwood, Chinese holly, China roses, pink muhly grass and colorful annuals such as Vinca. The drive in has received this award in the past and maintains its reputation as a bright spot on the main street. The club ladies enjoyed sodas compliments of Sonic.
Gardenettes are members of Disrict VI, Louisiana Garden Club Federation Inc., Deep South Garden Clubs Inc. and National Garden Clubs Inc.
According to Ayala, the landscaping is maintained by Landscape Plus. Some of the permanent plantings include boxwood, Chinese holly, China roses, pink muhly grass and colorful annuals such as Vinca. The drive in has received this award in the past and maintains its reputation as a bright spot on the main street. The club ladies enjoyed sodas compliments of Sonic.
Summer Board Meeting - July 8-9, 2024
Gardenette president Susan Pizani accepted the Deep South Garden Clubs Inc. first place award for small clubs for her group's Publicity Pressbook. Debby Cooper, Regional Director, for a six state area, made the presentation at the Louisiana Garden Club Federation Inc.'s annual Summer Board meeting held at the Crowne Plaza in Baton Rouge, July 8-9.
Vicky Fannaly, Gardenette Second Vice President, served as chairman for the event. Clubs from all over the state assembled for the two-day business meeting, which ended with the award's presentations. All clubs are members of National Garden Clubs Inc. Sandy Grimm, president of Belle Oaks Garden Club, represented Hammond. Gardenettes are a Ponchatoula group.
Vicky Fannaly, Gardenette Second Vice President, served as chairman for the event. Clubs from all over the state assembled for the two-day business meeting, which ended with the award's presentations. All clubs are members of National Garden Clubs Inc. Sandy Grimm, president of Belle Oaks Garden Club, represented Hammond. Gardenettes are a Ponchatoula group.
Garden of the Month
Margaret Joiner - 331 North 7th Street - July 3, 2024
Margaret Joiner, 331 N. Seventh Street, received Gardenettes' Garden of the Month honors for July. Gardenettes are members of District VI, Louisiana Garden Club Federation Inc., Deep South Garden Clubs Inc. and National Garden Clubs Inc.
Pictured are Sunday Hanson, Marilyn Wright, home owner Margaret Joiner, Margaret Bailey, president Susan Pizani, Ellen Pusey. A native of Ponchatoula, Joiner has deep ties to the community through her family and her work with placing rescue dogs. she has lived in her current location for twenty years and has worked with the rescue dogs for fifteen.
According to Gardenette chairman for Garden of the Month, Marilyn Wright, the home was chosen for the charm of its white picket fence with a view of well manicured lawns and beds of colorful vinca and lantana. The home faces Memorial Park which adds to its attractiveness.
Pictured are Sunday Hanson, Marilyn Wright, home owner Margaret Joiner, Margaret Bailey, president Susan Pizani, Ellen Pusey. A native of Ponchatoula, Joiner has deep ties to the community through her family and her work with placing rescue dogs. she has lived in her current location for twenty years and has worked with the rescue dogs for fifteen.
According to Gardenette chairman for Garden of the Month, Marilyn Wright, the home was chosen for the charm of its white picket fence with a view of well manicured lawns and beds of colorful vinca and lantana. The home faces Memorial Park which adds to its attractiveness.
June 2024
Click for Gardenettes June 2024 Newsletter
Bosom Buddy Bags - 70 Delivered June 26, 2024
Karen Hotard delivered 70 Bosom Buddy bags to North Oaks Hospital June 26. What a lot of work for one committee chairman to accomplish. See Karen pictured on the left with Staci Arceneaux of North Oaks Hospital System. Thank you, Karen!
Gardenettes garden club is a member of District VI, Louisiana Garden Club Federation Inc., Deep South Garden Clubs Inc. and National Garden Clubs Inc.
Gardenettes garden club is a member of District VI, Louisiana Garden Club Federation Inc., Deep South Garden Clubs Inc. and National Garden Clubs Inc.
June Garden of the Month
The Gardenettes awarded the June Garden of the Month to Anita Brandon at 163 South 5th Street on June 13. The garden club is a member of District VI, Louisiana Garden Club Federation Inc., Deep South Garden Clubs Inc. and National Garden Clubs Inc.
According to Margaret Bailey, chairman, "The main flower bed has beautiful Lantana, Coreopsis, Verbena and Gaillardia flowers blooming. Also included are bird feeders and bird houses placed in a lovely crepe myrtle tree. There are also many potted plants on posts, steps and porch with wandering Jew, moss rose, Gerbera daisies, creeping jenny and Mandevilla. Also a small arbor displays an old window with a window box. The porch is inviting with a swing, rocking chairs and plants, maybe even for Charlie Ray, the pet dog.
Following the presentation, Gardenettes Cricket Ayala, Bailey, Susan Pizani, Marilyn Wright, Mary Hirsch, Jamie LeBlanc and Virginia Hawkins met at Joe's Italian to discuss the presentation.
According to Margaret Bailey, chairman, "The main flower bed has beautiful Lantana, Coreopsis, Verbena and Gaillardia flowers blooming. Also included are bird feeders and bird houses placed in a lovely crepe myrtle tree. There are also many potted plants on posts, steps and porch with wandering Jew, moss rose, Gerbera daisies, creeping jenny and Mandevilla. Also a small arbor displays an old window with a window box. The porch is inviting with a swing, rocking chairs and plants, maybe even for Charlie Ray, the pet dog.
Following the presentation, Gardenettes Cricket Ayala, Bailey, Susan Pizani, Marilyn Wright, Mary Hirsch, Jamie LeBlanc and Virginia Hawkins met at Joe's Italian to discuss the presentation.
National Garden Week June 2-8, 2024
Day 1 - June 3
Celebrating National Garden Week, a project of National Garden Clubs Inc. Gardenettes put some free pass-along plants at the library on the first day. We plan to bring plants each day until Saturday. All plants are labeled with scientific names and planting instructions. Our garden club is a member of District VI Louisiana Garden Club Federation Inc., Deep South Garden Clubs Inc. and National Garden Club Inc. Chairman Sunday Hanson with a library patron and President Susan LaBarre Pizani are shown with Gardenettes Vicky Fannaly and Margaret Varnado Bailey and librarian Kristen Breland.
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In honor of National Garden Week, Gardenette Margaret Varnado Bailey presents a gardening book to librarian Kristen Breland. Present were Gardenettes Vicky Fannaly, president Susan LaBarre Pizani and chairman Sunday Hanson. The garden club is a member of District VI, Louisiana Garden Club Federation Inc., Deep South Garden Clubs Inc. and National Garden Clubs Inc.
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Day 2 - June 4 |
Day 3 - June 5 |
Day 2 Celebrating National Garden Week at Ponchatoula Library with Gardenettes Ellen Larsen Pusey, Vicky Fannaly and Mary Hirsch. Our free pass-along plants are labeled with common and scientific name plus planting instructions. Marilyn Wright brought plants both days at a later time to stagger our offering. Gardenettes are members of District VI, Louisiana Garden Club Federation Inc., Deep South Garden Clubs Inc., and National Garden Clubs Inc.
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Day 3 of National Garden Week celebration: Gardenettes Kathy Bruce and Virginia Hawkins met two enthusiastic gardeners while putting out today's plants. Also thanks to Marilyn Wright and Susan LaBarre Pizani for bringing more plants a little later so we would not run out so quickly. Our club has been meeting such nice people at Ponchatoula Library! We are members of District VI, Louisiana Garden Club Federation Inc., Deep South Garden Clubs Inc., and National Garden Clubs Inc.
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Day 4 - June 6 |
Day 5 - June 7 |
Day 4 - Gardenettes share pass-along plants at the Ponchatoula Library in honor of National Garden Week. Librarian Michele Wilson on the right assists Mary Hirsch and Vicky Fannaly as they display their plants. Special thanks to Cindy Fannaly for donating plants for two of our days! The garden club is a member of District VI, Louisiana Garden Club Federation Inc., Deep South Garden Clubs Inc. and National Garden Clubs Inc.
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Day 5 - National Garden Week celebration in the Ponchatoula Library. Head librarian Kellie Ferrara shown with Gardenettes Ellen Larsen , Vicky Fannaly and chairman Sunday Hanson. Thanks for the extra plants brought an hour later by Virginia Hawkins, Kate Madre, and Susan Pizani! Garden club belongs to District VI, Louisiana Garden Club Federation Inc., Deep South Garden Clubs Inc. and National Garden Clubs Inc.
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Day 6 - June 8
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Day 6 National Garden Week - last day! Gardenettes president Susan Pizani, Marilyn Wright, Mellie Singer, Vicky Fannaly, chairman Sunday Hanson came to bring plants. Had great response from the library patrons. Brought refreshments for the librarians. Gardenettes are members of District VI, Louisiana Garden Club Federation Inc., Deep South Garden Clubs Inc., and National Garden Clubs Inc. |
May 2024
Click for Gardenettes May 2024 Newsletter
For the Birds - Mellie Singer 5/30/2024
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FOR THE BIRDS!: Mellie Singer, Gardenettes Birds- Butterflies- Conservation Chairman, offers these informative facts: The Northern Cardinal is a non-migratory bird found commonly across Louisiana.
Gardenettes are members of District VI, Louisiana Garden Club Federation Inc., Deep South Garden Clubs Inc. and National Garden Clubs Inc. They are about 8 or 9 inches in length and are lovely easily recognizable songbirds. The males have striking red feathers and a scarlet crest, whereas the females are brown with tinges of red. They have a varied diet including seeds, insects, and fruit. They're frequent visitors to bird feeders and will be encouraged to visit your garden very easily, if you provide one. However, they can often aggressively defend their territory from intruders, including their own reflection in windows or mirrors. They primarily forage at ground level and are skilled at using their strong bills to crack open seeds and nuts. They have a distinctive call, often described as "pichew-pichew-pichew, chew, chew, chew, chew." Have a listen the next time you hear bird song. See if you can hear any cardinals. |
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District VI President's Meeting
CLUB PRESIDENTS and Guests.
WEDNESDAY, MAY 29TH MIDDENDORF'S at Manchac 11A.M.
Gardenettes members attended the Louisiana Garden Club Federation Inc. District VI President's Meeting held May 29 at Middendorf's Restaurant in Akers.
Representing Gardenettes were Melly Singer, president Susan Pizani, Sunday Hanson, Virginia Hawkins and Vicky Fannaly. All clubs attending also belong to Deep South Garden Clubs Inc. and National Garden Clubs Inc.
District VI Director Donna Moran presided over the meeting. Newly elected presidents received useful forms and instructions for their coming term of office. Each of the fourteen club presidents gave a brief talk on one of their outstanding club programs and introduced their members who attended the luncheon.
Representing Gardenettes were Melly Singer, president Susan Pizani, Sunday Hanson, Virginia Hawkins and Vicky Fannaly. All clubs attending also belong to Deep South Garden Clubs Inc. and National Garden Clubs Inc.
District VI Director Donna Moran presided over the meeting. Newly elected presidents received useful forms and instructions for their coming term of office. Each of the fourteen club presidents gave a brief talk on one of their outstanding club programs and introduced their members who attended the luncheon.
May Garden of the Month - Kelly Pizani & Dominic Miceli
Proud parents Tillman and Susan Pizani attend the presentation of Garden of the Month to Kelly Pizani and Dominic Miceli
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Many beautiful roses make this an eye-catching garden.
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Kelly Pizani and Dominic Miceli, Rue Chateau in Belle Foret, received Gardenettes May Garden of the Month honors for their profusion of roses of many colors and types. Attending the presentation were parents Tillman and Susan Pizani, garden club president.
Gardenettes are members of District VI, Louisiana Garden Club Federation Inc., Deep South Garden Clubs Inc., and National Garden Clubs Inc. Selection was made by Margaret Bailey, chairman of the Garden of the Month committee.
"The landscaping is eyecatching with the profusion of colors. Although the roses bloom throughout the year, the garden is at it's peak at this time of the year. We are pleased to acknowledge the work that was spent to make this garden so beautiful," according to Bailey.
Gardenettes are members of District VI, Louisiana Garden Club Federation Inc., Deep South Garden Clubs Inc., and National Garden Clubs Inc. Selection was made by Margaret Bailey, chairman of the Garden of the Month committee.
"The landscaping is eyecatching with the profusion of colors. Although the roses bloom throughout the year, the garden is at it's peak at this time of the year. We are pleased to acknowledge the work that was spent to make this garden so beautiful," according to Bailey.
Installation Banquet - Murphy's Seafood & Steak
May 8, 2024
Susan Pizani was installed as president of the Gardenettes at Murphy's Seafood and Steak, in Hammond May 8. District VI Director Donna Moran conducted the ceremony.
Joining her were vice president Marilyn Wright; second vice president Vicky Fannaly; recording secretary Jamie LeBlanc; corresponding secretary Cynthia Cummer; treasurer Ellen Pusey; parliamentarian Sunday Hanson; chaplain Kathy Bruce.
The garden club belongs to District VI Louisiana Garden Club Federation Inc., Deep South Garden Clubs Inc., National Garden Clubs Inc.
Outgoing president Fannaly selected Karen Hotard, Bosom Buddy Bag committee, as outstanding chairman. Hotard received an award. Horticultue and Exhibits chairman, Bruce, honored the club members who participated in the monthly. Members brought plants decorated with live flowers to be exchanged to the May meeting.
Preparations for National Garden Week, June 2-8, 2024, were outlined by Hanson. She intends to repeat last year's plant starters give-away at the Ponchatoula Library during that period. She plans to have new plants each day.
Mary Hirsch conducted the 50/50 raffle and plant exchange. Virginia Hawkins led the blessing. May birthdays included Margaret Bailey and Rose Husser. Bailey and Cricket Ayala announced the upcoming Garden of the Month and Genesis award winners.
Joining her were vice president Marilyn Wright; second vice president Vicky Fannaly; recording secretary Jamie LeBlanc; corresponding secretary Cynthia Cummer; treasurer Ellen Pusey; parliamentarian Sunday Hanson; chaplain Kathy Bruce.
The garden club belongs to District VI Louisiana Garden Club Federation Inc., Deep South Garden Clubs Inc., National Garden Clubs Inc.
Outgoing president Fannaly selected Karen Hotard, Bosom Buddy Bag committee, as outstanding chairman. Hotard received an award. Horticultue and Exhibits chairman, Bruce, honored the club members who participated in the monthly. Members brought plants decorated with live flowers to be exchanged to the May meeting.
Preparations for National Garden Week, June 2-8, 2024, were outlined by Hanson. She intends to repeat last year's plant starters give-away at the Ponchatoula Library during that period. She plans to have new plants each day.
Mary Hirsch conducted the 50/50 raffle and plant exchange. Virginia Hawkins led the blessing. May birthdays included Margaret Bailey and Rose Husser. Bailey and Cricket Ayala announced the upcoming Garden of the Month and Genesis award winners.
April 2024
Click for Gardenettes April 2024 Newsletter
Virginia Hawkins
Hoffman Road
April 9, 2024
Virginia Hawkins, Hoffman Road, received Garden of the Month honors for April. Presentation by Margaret Bailey and Vicky Fannaly for the Gardenettes, a Ponchatoula garden club, was made April 10.
Hawkins holds membership in Belle Oaks Garden Club (Hammond) and Gardenettes. Both clubs are members of District VI, Louisiana Garden Club Federation Inc., Deep South Garden Clubs Inc., National Garden Clubs Inc.
An avid gardener, Hawkins used a new technique for getting hard to grow poppies and larkspur seeds to germinate and grow as witnessed by her waist high blooms. Her garden boasts some very unusual blossoms, attractively placed among attractive yard decor.
Also present for the tour of Hawkins garden was Carolyn Todd, a member of Belle Oaks and Hammond Garden clubs. Phlox, amarylis, roses and clematis mingle with her many vegetable plants to adorn the pocket beds
Hawkins holds membership in Belle Oaks Garden Club (Hammond) and Gardenettes. Both clubs are members of District VI, Louisiana Garden Club Federation Inc., Deep South Garden Clubs Inc., National Garden Clubs Inc.
An avid gardener, Hawkins used a new technique for getting hard to grow poppies and larkspur seeds to germinate and grow as witnessed by her waist high blooms. Her garden boasts some very unusual blossoms, attractively placed among attractive yard decor.
Also present for the tour of Hawkins garden was Carolyn Todd, a member of Belle Oaks and Hammond Garden clubs. Phlox, amarylis, roses and clematis mingle with her many vegetable plants to adorn the pocket beds
LGCF Convention in Lake Charles, April 16-17, 2024
Gardenettes place first for Publicity Pressbook and received cash awards for their website and Facebook page at the Louisiana Garden Club Federation Inc. held at L'Auberge Casino in Lake Charles April 16-17. The club also received three other awards for Arbor Day, Special Conservation and Garden Club Achievement.
Representing the Gardenettes from District VI were incoming president Susan Pizani, current president Vicky Fannaly, Marilyn Wright and Sunday Hanson. The club belongs to Deep South Garden Clubs Inc. and National Garden Clubs Inc.
Founded in 1942, the club recently celebrated it's forty-second anniversary and forty-first year in the Federation.
Representing the Gardenettes from District VI were incoming president Susan Pizani, current president Vicky Fannaly, Marilyn Wright and Sunday Hanson. The club belongs to Deep South Garden Clubs Inc. and National Garden Clubs Inc.
Founded in 1942, the club recently celebrated it's forty-second anniversary and forty-first year in the Federation.
Election of Officers April 2024
Susan Pizani has been elected president of the Gardenettes, a Ponchatoula garden club. She succeeds Vicky Fannaly in the position.
Other officers include vice president - Marilyn Wright; second vice-president – Fannaly; treasurer – Ellen Pusey; recording secretary – Jamie LeBlanc; corresponding secretary – Cynthia Cummer; parliamentarian – Sunday Hanson; chaplain – Kathy Bruce.
Gardenettes are members of District VI, Louisiana Garden Club Federation Inc., Deep South Garden Clubs Inc. and National Garden Clubs Inc.
A native of New Orleans, Pizani has lived in Covington, Metairie, and Colorado. Married to T. J. Pizani, she is the mother of two and proud grandmother of four. According to Pizani, “After Katrina we moved to Colorado where we lived for ten years. When it was time to come home, we decided to build a house in Ponchatoula. I quickly found the Gardenettes.”
Pizani has served in the garden club in many committees, but notably on Arbor Day where she has coordinated the annual January tree planting ceremonies.
Other officers include vice president - Marilyn Wright; second vice-president – Fannaly; treasurer – Ellen Pusey; recording secretary – Jamie LeBlanc; corresponding secretary – Cynthia Cummer; parliamentarian – Sunday Hanson; chaplain – Kathy Bruce.
Gardenettes are members of District VI, Louisiana Garden Club Federation Inc., Deep South Garden Clubs Inc. and National Garden Clubs Inc.
A native of New Orleans, Pizani has lived in Covington, Metairie, and Colorado. Married to T. J. Pizani, she is the mother of two and proud grandmother of four. According to Pizani, “After Katrina we moved to Colorado where we lived for ten years. When it was time to come home, we decided to build a house in Ponchatoula. I quickly found the Gardenettes.”
Pizani has served in the garden club in many committees, but notably on Arbor Day where she has coordinated the annual January tree planting ceremonies.
Pam and Jimmy Byers - Garden Revisited
April 18, 2024
Presenting the award in 2018 were Sonya Avery, president, the late Pam Byers, with Jane O'Flynn and Ellen Pusey.
Gardenettes visited the gardens of the late Pam Byers, a past Garden of the Month winner, to view the flowers she worked so hard to nurture before her sudden passing recently. Invited by her husband, Jimmy Byers, Pam’s blossoms echoed her enthusiasm for beautifying her surroundings.
The last award Pam received was presented by Sonya Avery, Jane O’Flynn and Ellen Pusey in August 2018. Gardenettes are members of District VI, Louisiana Garden Club Federation Inc., Deep South Garden Clubs Inc. and National Garden Clubs Inc.
According to her husband Jimmy, “Pam’s love for gardening has been full of tips handed down through generations. She has flowers all around the home; but her back patio was her relaxation spot with tropical plants, jasmine, mandevillas, petunias, hammock, porch swing, rocking chairs and hummingbird feeders. She loved to just sit and relax with her husband listening to music. Pam had a green thumb and could grow elephant ears bigger than herself and beautiful trees and gardens full of flowers and tomatoes.”
The Gardenettes will miss this avid plant lover whose inspiration helped beautify our city, according to Vicky Fannaly, current garden club president.
Jimmy explained, "At the front entrance is a seating area where you can rest after hours of yard work or just to enjoy the colorful flowers. Crepe Myrtles line the side drive and along the side of the house are mandevillas with a variety of plants. Pam has azaleas camellias ligustrum and pieris, lantanas, bleeding heart vine, South Carolina vine, Confederate Jasmine vine, English ivy and many other bushes and shrubs. Also many flowering annuals add color. Many plants are protected from the sun by the shade of large trees. Pam states the sun loving plants are doing well under their shade rather than in the sun (just too hot even for them). In the patio area are potted plants collected by Pam over the 6 years that she and Jimmy have lived at this location. Yard art and flags add to the landscape."
The last award Pam received was presented by Sonya Avery, Jane O’Flynn and Ellen Pusey in August 2018. Gardenettes are members of District VI, Louisiana Garden Club Federation Inc., Deep South Garden Clubs Inc. and National Garden Clubs Inc.
According to her husband Jimmy, “Pam’s love for gardening has been full of tips handed down through generations. She has flowers all around the home; but her back patio was her relaxation spot with tropical plants, jasmine, mandevillas, petunias, hammock, porch swing, rocking chairs and hummingbird feeders. She loved to just sit and relax with her husband listening to music. Pam had a green thumb and could grow elephant ears bigger than herself and beautiful trees and gardens full of flowers and tomatoes.”
The Gardenettes will miss this avid plant lover whose inspiration helped beautify our city, according to Vicky Fannaly, current garden club president.
Jimmy explained, "At the front entrance is a seating area where you can rest after hours of yard work or just to enjoy the colorful flowers. Crepe Myrtles line the side drive and along the side of the house are mandevillas with a variety of plants. Pam has azaleas camellias ligustrum and pieris, lantanas, bleeding heart vine, South Carolina vine, Confederate Jasmine vine, English ivy and many other bushes and shrubs. Also many flowering annuals add color. Many plants are protected from the sun by the shade of large trees. Pam states the sun loving plants are doing well under their shade rather than in the sun (just too hot even for them). In the patio area are potted plants collected by Pam over the 6 years that she and Jimmy have lived at this location. Yard art and flags add to the landscape."
CLEANEST CITY CONTEST JUDGING
- BATON ROUGE 4/2/2024 -
Baton Rouge Garden Club hosted the Cleanest City District VI competition April 2 at the Downtown Development District office, 247 Florida St. in Baton Rouge. Representing Gardenettes, a Ponchatoula club, were Vicky Fannaly and Virginia Hawkins. They and the third judge Carolyn Todd are members of Belle Oaks Garden club as well. All clubs are members of District VI, Louisiana Garden Club Federation Inc., Deep South Garden Clubs Inc. and National Garden Club Inc. State judging will be held April 23 through May 3.
March 2024
Click for Gardenettes March 2024 Newsletter
March - April
Roussel's Fine Jewelry & Gifts
March 13, 2024
Rene Roussel, Roussel’s Fine Jewelry and Gifts, 177 W. Pine St., accepted the Genesis Award for commercial displays from the Gardenettes. A Ponchatoula garden club, the group is a member of District VI, Louisiana Garden Club Federation Inc., Deep South Garden Clubs Inc. and National Garden Clubs Inc.
“Roussel’s was selected for helping maintain the beauty of downtown Ponchatoula. The display windows feature beautiful butterfly and floral art created by author and illustrator Ariane Trammell, according to Cricket Ayala, garden club chairman.
Assisting Ayala in the presentation, were Gardenettes Cynthia Cummer, Mary Hirsch, Margaret Bailey and Susan Pizani - photo by Ellen Pusey, present but not shown.
“Roussel’s was selected for helping maintain the beauty of downtown Ponchatoula. The display windows feature beautiful butterfly and floral art created by author and illustrator Ariane Trammell, according to Cricket Ayala, garden club chairman.
Assisting Ayala in the presentation, were Gardenettes Cynthia Cummer, Mary Hirsch, Margaret Bailey and Susan Pizani - photo by Ellen Pusey, present but not shown.
March Garden of the Month - March 2024
Gardenettes presented March Garden of the Month award to cDawn and Manly Cazedessus, 215 North 6th Street, March 20. Gardenettes, a Ponchatoula garden club, holds membership in District VI, Louisiana Garden Club Federation Inc., Deep South Garden Clubs Inc., and National Garden Clubs Inc.
According to chairman Margaret Bailey, the lovely home shows off their well maintained landscaping displays with use of Loropetalum, Bridal wreath, camellias, Agapanthus, palmetto, and magnolia trees. The Cazedessus family, joined by Sammy, his golden retriever, welcomed garden club members Bailey, Marilyn Wright and Cricket Ayala. Photos were taken by Ayala.
According to chairman Margaret Bailey, the lovely home shows off their well maintained landscaping displays with use of Loropetalum, Bridal wreath, camellias, Agapanthus, palmetto, and magnolia trees. The Cazedessus family, joined by Sammy, his golden retriever, welcomed garden club members Bailey, Marilyn Wright and Cricket Ayala. Photos were taken by Ayala.
March 13, 2024 Meeting
Gardenette Sunday Hanson shared tips on composting and enriching soil for maximum yield vegetables and vigorous blooming plants at the garden club’s March 13 meeting, held at the Strawberry Board Building in Memorial Park.
Hanson brought samples of the supplies she uses to ensure success. Gardenettes are members of District VI, Louisiana Garden Club Federation Inc., Deep South Garden Clubs Inc. and National Garden Clubs Inc.
Hostesses for the event were Karen Hotard, Mary Hirsch, and Susan Pizani. They distributed door prizes to lucky club members. Dottie Boudreaux conducted the 50/50 raffle. Chaplain Kathy Bruce gave the opening prayer and led the Pledge of Allegiance. Treasurer Ellen Pusey read the financial report. Sunshine Chairman Cynthia Cummer discussed using email versus mailing cards for birthdays and condolences. The consensus was to mail a card and an email.
Genesis chairman, Cricket Ayala, invited everyone to go after the meeting to Rousell’s Fine Jewelry and Gifts, 177 W. Pine St. to make the presentation of the commercial beautification award. Margaret Bailey, chairman, announced the Garden of the Month recipient for March. Photos will be taken during the weekend.
Reporting for the nominating committee, Cummer announced the candidates for office for the coming year which starts in September following the club’s summer vacation. Nominees were voted in and will be officially announced at a later date.
Chairman Hanson made plans for National Garden Week June 2-8, with the possible repeat of last year’s successful plant giveaways. She distributed small pots to members so they could start making cuttings and sowing seeds for the event. The club plans to give these away at the Ponchatoula Library during this national event.
Exhibits chairman Kathy Bruce displayed her all green “St. Patrick’s Day” arrangement, giving hints on how to bring floral displays as outlined in the club’s yearbook. She and Virginia Hawkins judged the horticulture brought in by members. A plant exchange was held, with extra plants being sold to benefit the club.
Arbor Day Chairman, Pizani, gave a recap of the January Arbor Day ceremonies with Mayor Bob Zabbia. The club did not have a business meeting since then as they attended the joint Tangipahoa Garden Clubs meeting in February.
President Vicky Fannaly announced the LGCF Inc. flower bulb fundraiser, the Madisonville Flower Show and the Art in Bloom scheduled mini-class in June. Present but not previously mentioned were Marilyn Wright, Margaret Hardin and Carol Mc Gough.
Hanson brought samples of the supplies she uses to ensure success. Gardenettes are members of District VI, Louisiana Garden Club Federation Inc., Deep South Garden Clubs Inc. and National Garden Clubs Inc.
Hostesses for the event were Karen Hotard, Mary Hirsch, and Susan Pizani. They distributed door prizes to lucky club members. Dottie Boudreaux conducted the 50/50 raffle. Chaplain Kathy Bruce gave the opening prayer and led the Pledge of Allegiance. Treasurer Ellen Pusey read the financial report. Sunshine Chairman Cynthia Cummer discussed using email versus mailing cards for birthdays and condolences. The consensus was to mail a card and an email.
Genesis chairman, Cricket Ayala, invited everyone to go after the meeting to Rousell’s Fine Jewelry and Gifts, 177 W. Pine St. to make the presentation of the commercial beautification award. Margaret Bailey, chairman, announced the Garden of the Month recipient for March. Photos will be taken during the weekend.
Reporting for the nominating committee, Cummer announced the candidates for office for the coming year which starts in September following the club’s summer vacation. Nominees were voted in and will be officially announced at a later date.
Chairman Hanson made plans for National Garden Week June 2-8, with the possible repeat of last year’s successful plant giveaways. She distributed small pots to members so they could start making cuttings and sowing seeds for the event. The club plans to give these away at the Ponchatoula Library during this national event.
Exhibits chairman Kathy Bruce displayed her all green “St. Patrick’s Day” arrangement, giving hints on how to bring floral displays as outlined in the club’s yearbook. She and Virginia Hawkins judged the horticulture brought in by members. A plant exchange was held, with extra plants being sold to benefit the club.
Arbor Day Chairman, Pizani, gave a recap of the January Arbor Day ceremonies with Mayor Bob Zabbia. The club did not have a business meeting since then as they attended the joint Tangipahoa Garden Clubs meeting in February.
President Vicky Fannaly announced the LGCF Inc. flower bulb fundraiser, the Madisonville Flower Show and the Art in Bloom scheduled mini-class in June. Present but not previously mentioned were Marilyn Wright, Margaret Hardin and Carol Mc Gough.
February 2024
Click for Gardenettes February 2024 Newsletter
Bosom Buddy Bags - 2/7/2024
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Gardenette chairman Karen Hotard delivered fifty Bosom Buddy Bags to Staci Arceneaux, liason at North Oaks Hospital, for the cancer and surgery patients February 7. These cheerful bags are appreciated by post surgery patients for holding their drip bags.
The club is a member of District VI, Louisiana Garden Club Federation Inc., Deep South Garden Clubs Inc. and National Garden Clubs Inc. For the past ten years, the garden club has been sewing these handy bags for the hospital. Started in 2014 to honor breast cancer awareness month, the tradition continues mainly because of the good response. The club has received letters of appreciation from patients who have received them over the years. Hotard who does much of the sewing on these bags herself enjoys the positive feedback she has received from the hospital regarding her efforts. |
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Circle of Roses - Margaret Bailey 2/7/2024
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Gardenette past president Margaret Bailey receives Circle of Roses honor from current president Vicky Fannaly at the annual Joint Tangipahoa Garden Clubs meeting February 7 at Oak Knoll Country Club.
A second generation recipient of this honor, Bailey joins her mother the late Edith Vitter in receiving the Louisiana Garden Club Federation Inc.'s prestigious commendation recognizing years of high level service in their organization. Clubs present included Gardenettes, Hammond Garden Club, Belle Oaks Garden Club and Stem and Stamen Garden Club of Amite. All are members of District VI, Louisiana Garden Club Federation Inc., Deep South Garden Clubs Inc. and National Garden Clubs Inc. Bailey who was a member of Junior Gardenettes as a child remembers learning basic flower arranging and plant identification from an early age. A graduate of Lousiana State University in Baton Rouge, she received a Masters Degree from the University of New Orleans. She now resides in Ponchatoula. |
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February Joint Tangipahoa Parish Meeting 2/7/2024
Gardenettes attended the annual Tangipahoa Joint Garden Club Meeting hosted by Hammond Garden Club at Oak Knoll Country Club February 7.
Other attendees came from Belle Oaks Garden Club of Hammond and Stem and Stamen Garden Club of Amite. All four clubs are members of District VI, Louisiana Garden Club Federation Inc., Deep South Garden Clubs Inc. and National Garden Clubs Inc.
Wearing Mardi Gras costumes and theme related apparel, the members enjoyed a very interesting program on Mardi Gras around the world was presented by Dr. Sam Hyde Jr., Director Center for Southeast Louisiana Studies at Southeastern Louisiana University.
Other attendees came from Belle Oaks Garden Club of Hammond and Stem and Stamen Garden Club of Amite. All four clubs are members of District VI, Louisiana Garden Club Federation Inc., Deep South Garden Clubs Inc. and National Garden Clubs Inc.
Wearing Mardi Gras costumes and theme related apparel, the members enjoyed a very interesting program on Mardi Gras around the world was presented by Dr. Sam Hyde Jr., Director Center for Southeast Louisiana Studies at Southeastern Louisiana University.
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SECOND LINE VIDEO
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January 2024
Click for Gardenettes January 2024 Newsletter
Genesis Award - January 31, 2023
The Oaks Wedding & Event Center
The Oaks Wedding and Event Center, 18444 Hwy. 22 East, received the Gardenettes January-February Genesis Award for their landscaping. Accepting the honor January 31 for the Center were Donald Jones and Missy Hammack.
Landscaping is maintained by Katie Albert. Garden club members present included chairman Cricket Ayala, Margaret Bailey, Susan Pizani and Vicky Fannaly. The club is a member of District VI, Louisiana Garden Club Federation Inc., Deep South Garden Clubs Inc. and National Garden Clubs Inc.
According to Ayala, beautiful oak trees drawith moss and dazzling lights are the focus in the garden of the Center. Magnolia trees, roses, azaleas, Chinese privet, bamboo, Japanese Pittosporum and Indian hawthorn are just a part of the landscaping features of this lovely event venue.
Landscaping is maintained by Katie Albert. Garden club members present included chairman Cricket Ayala, Margaret Bailey, Susan Pizani and Vicky Fannaly. The club is a member of District VI, Louisiana Garden Club Federation Inc., Deep South Garden Clubs Inc. and National Garden Clubs Inc.
According to Ayala, beautiful oak trees drawith moss and dazzling lights are the focus in the garden of the Center. Magnolia trees, roses, azaleas, Chinese privet, bamboo, Japanese Pittosporum and Indian hawthorn are just a part of the landscaping features of this lovely event venue.
Arbor Day - January 23, 2024
Gardenettes gathered at Memorial Park to celebrate Arbor Day on January 23. Mayor Bob Zabbia officiated at the ceremony as a Shumard oak was planted on the Strawberry Festival grounds main site.
Gardenettes are members of District VI, Louisiana Garden Club Federation Inc., Deep South Garden Clubs Inc. and National Garden Clubs Inc. Attending were chairman Susan Pizani, Mellie Singer, Kathy Bruce,
The Shumard oak was selected for its bright autumn foliage and tolerance to heat and poor soil conditions. A dependable shade tree, the Shumard is known for it's long lifespan.
Gardenettes are members of District VI, Louisiana Garden Club Federation Inc., Deep South Garden Clubs Inc. and National Garden Clubs Inc. Attending were chairman Susan Pizani, Mellie Singer, Kathy Bruce,
The Shumard oak was selected for its bright autumn foliage and tolerance to heat and poor soil conditions. A dependable shade tree, the Shumard is known for it's long lifespan.
Garden of the Month - January 22, 2024
Mary and Jay Ransom at 12031 Koerin Drive received January Garden of the Month honors from the Gardenettes. The garden club is a member of District VI, Louisiana Garden Club Federation Inc., Deep South Garden Clubs Inc. and National Garden Clubs Inc.
The couple were honored in 2016 for their outstanding landscaping. According to Margaret Bailey, committee chairman, "There is a tall Savanah holly that lost all of its leaves leaving behind a stunning tree of red berries. Their well maintained landscaping of Pampas grass, holly, Crepe myrtles, sago palms and liriope also had blooming camellias, azaleas and petunias. These sadly fell prey to our deep freeze. Mary Ransom urged me to tell everyone to come by in the spring when their yard is in full bloom."
The couple were honored in 2016 for their outstanding landscaping. According to Margaret Bailey, committee chairman, "There is a tall Savanah holly that lost all of its leaves leaving behind a stunning tree of red berries. Their well maintained landscaping of Pampas grass, holly, Crepe myrtles, sago palms and liriope also had blooming camellias, azaleas and petunias. These sadly fell prey to our deep freeze. Mary Ransom urged me to tell everyone to come by in the spring when their yard is in full bloom."
January 2024 Meeting: Camellias!
ohn Grimm, Master Gardener and owner of Camellia Heaven in Bush, presented a slide show of camellias of Western Australia to the Gardenettes at their January 10 meeting. Despite the less than ideal conditions offered by the country for the growth of this favored winter plant, he found many exceptional blooming camellias.
Grimm, who belongs to many specialty plant groups is a member of Belle Oaks Garden Club. He serves on the board of the American Camellia Society. Gardenettes and Belle Oaks are members of District VI, Louisiana Garden Club Federation Inc., Deep South Garden Clubs Inc. and National Garden Clubs Inc.
Guests included Mona Middlebrook, Sandy Grimm, Timothy McLendon, and new Gardenette member Virginia Hawkins. Hostesses for the event included Cynthia Cummer, Jamie LeBlanc, and Sandy Cusick. Members congratulated Cricket Ayala on her upcoming birthday.
Following Grimm's presentation, the business meeting was called to order. Kathy Bruce gave an opening prayer and the collect. Corresponding secretary, Cummer updated the group on those who were ill and listed the February birthdays. Exhibits committee members Bruce and Melly Singer judged the horticulture specimens and awarded ribbons for condition and excellence. Members who brought specimens were Vicky Fannaly and Margaret Bailey.
Arbor Day chairman, Susan Pizani, invited everyone to attend the Arbor Day ceremony set for January 23
at 11:00 a.m. on the south side of Memorial Park.
Grimm, who belongs to many specialty plant groups is a member of Belle Oaks Garden Club. He serves on the board of the American Camellia Society. Gardenettes and Belle Oaks are members of District VI, Louisiana Garden Club Federation Inc., Deep South Garden Clubs Inc. and National Garden Clubs Inc.
Guests included Mona Middlebrook, Sandy Grimm, Timothy McLendon, and new Gardenette member Virginia Hawkins. Hostesses for the event included Cynthia Cummer, Jamie LeBlanc, and Sandy Cusick. Members congratulated Cricket Ayala on her upcoming birthday.
Following Grimm's presentation, the business meeting was called to order. Kathy Bruce gave an opening prayer and the collect. Corresponding secretary, Cummer updated the group on those who were ill and listed the February birthdays. Exhibits committee members Bruce and Melly Singer judged the horticulture specimens and awarded ribbons for condition and excellence. Members who brought specimens were Vicky Fannaly and Margaret Bailey.
Arbor Day chairman, Susan Pizani, invited everyone to attend the Arbor Day ceremony set for January 23
at 11:00 a.m. on the south side of Memorial Park.
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