BIRTH OF THE Louisiana Garden Club Federation
(Excerpts from “History of the Federation”, Handbook, 1956)
On October 20, 1934, a meeting was held in Alexandria with eleven garden clubs represented: Alexandria, Baton Rouge, Bunkie, Monroe, New Orleans, Pineville, Shreveport, St. Joseph, Tallulah and Vidalia. During this meeting the Louisiana Garden Club Federation was born and the following officers were elected:
President Mrs. A. Q. Peterson, New Orleans
First Vice-President Mrs. Donald Dickson, Shreveport
Second Vice-President Mrs. John Devine, Tallulah
Recording Secretary Mrs. W. S. Buchanan, Alexandria
Corresponding Secretary Mrs. R. J. Usher, New Orleans
Treasurer Mrs. John M. Breard, Monroe
Soon, three more clubs were added: Lake Charles, Garden Study Club of New Orleans, and Newellton; and soon thereafter, Jefferson Davis Garden Study Club of Jennings and the Garden Club of Hammond joined the Federation. The first convention was held in New Orleans, March 1935, with fourteen clubs represented. In 1935 the Louisiana Garden Club Federation, Inc. became federated when it joined the now National Garden Clubs, Inc.
President Mrs. A. Q. Peterson, New Orleans
First Vice-President Mrs. Donald Dickson, Shreveport
Second Vice-President Mrs. John Devine, Tallulah
Recording Secretary Mrs. W. S. Buchanan, Alexandria
Corresponding Secretary Mrs. R. J. Usher, New Orleans
Treasurer Mrs. John M. Breard, Monroe
Soon, three more clubs were added: Lake Charles, Garden Study Club of New Orleans, and Newellton; and soon thereafter, Jefferson Davis Garden Study Club of Jennings and the Garden Club of Hammond joined the Federation. The first convention was held in New Orleans, March 1935, with fourteen clubs represented. In 1935 the Louisiana Garden Club Federation, Inc. became federated when it joined the now National Garden Clubs, Inc.
LGCF PRESIDENTS
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1934-1936 Mrs. A. Q. Peterson, New Orleans *
1936-1939 Mrs. Thomas Dodd (Mrs. W. S. Buchanan), Pineville * 1939-1942 Mrs. William N. Reed, Lake Charles * 1942-1945 Mrs. Ben Coulter, Winnsboro * 1945 Mrs. L. M. Waite, Baton Rouge * 1945-1947 Mrs. G. M. Martin, Lake Charles * 1947-1949 Mrs. U. B. Evans, Ferriday * 1949-1951 Mrs. Herbert V. Kelley, Baton Rouge * 1951-1953 Mrs. J. Norris Hanning, New Orleans * 1953-1955 Judy Osbourne (Mrs. Homer H. Harris), Alexandria * 1955-1957 Undine Martone, Iowa * 1957-1959 Sara Gladney, Baton Rouge * 1959-1961 Ruth Miller, Shreveport * 1961-1963 Joyce Smith, New Orleans * 1963-1965 Nan Jordan, New Iberia * 1965-1967 Pearl Yawn, New Roads * 1967-1969 Donna Beckman, Alexandria * 1969-1971 Esther Carriere, Winnsboro * 1971-1973 Irene M. Petitjean, Rayne * 1973-1975 Ducie Heaney, New Orleans * 1975-1977 Alvera Conley, Minden * 1977-1979 Carmelite Brechtel, New Orleans * |
1979-1981 Dorothy Trahin, Morgan City * 1981-1983 Marilyn Carlton, Lecompte * 1983-1985 Zelda Rose, Covington * 1985-1987 Valerie Barnum, Jonesboro * 1987-1989 Charlotte Colosky, Lake Charles 1989-1991 Billie Massa, River Ridge 1991-1993 Marie Wissman, Bossier City * 1993-1995 Betty Bagert, New Orleans 1995-1997 Bera Smith, Lafayette * 1997-1999 Sara Weiss, Alexandria * 1999-2001 Peggy Cazes, Baton Rouge * 2001-2003 Mary Sue Colvin, Fort Necessity 2003-2005 Margo Racca, Iowa 2005-2007 Annmary Miester, New Orleans * 2007-2009 Sybil Colicchio, Shreveport * 2009-2011 Donna Bucci, Morgan City 2011-2013 Mary Jacobs, Kenner 2013-2015 Yvette Hebert, Alexandria 2015-2017 Jeanette Gatzman* 2017-2019 Lena Bateman 2019-2021 Linda Finley 2021-2023 Roxanna Champagne * Deceased |
LGCF FORMER STATE PRESIDENTS 1934-2023
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1934-1936 Mrs. A. Q. Peterson, New Orleans *
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1936-1939 Mrs. Thomas Dodd (Mrs. W. S. Buchanan), Pineville *
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1939-1942 Mrs. William N. Reed, Lake Charles *
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LGCF HISTORY HIGHLIGHTS of former Presidents
1934-2017
1934-1936 Mrs. A. Q. Peterson, New Orleans
Programs of Roadside Beautification and Conservation of native flora were instituted. The pattern of holding Executive Board meetings around the state was set, and courses in Flower Show Judging and Garden Design were held.
1936-1939 Mrs. W. S. Buchanan (Mrs. Dodd), Pineville
The first Newsletter was published, and a Yearbook came out in 1937. It included a Constitution and Bylaws, along with reports from twenty-one clubs. In 1938 a Conservation Bill to protect native flora was sponsored and became law.
1939-1942 Mrs. William N. Reed, Lake Charles
The state was divided into eight Districts with District Directors. The first annual Garden Conference was held in July at Baton Rouge in cooperation with Louisiana State University’s Department of Horticulture. The emblem of the Iris, adopted by LGCF, was designed by Mrs. Reed.
Programs of Roadside Beautification and Conservation of native flora were instituted. The pattern of holding Executive Board meetings around the state was set, and courses in Flower Show Judging and Garden Design were held.
1936-1939 Mrs. W. S. Buchanan (Mrs. Dodd), Pineville
The first Newsletter was published, and a Yearbook came out in 1937. It included a Constitution and Bylaws, along with reports from twenty-one clubs. In 1938 a Conservation Bill to protect native flora was sponsored and became law.
1939-1942 Mrs. William N. Reed, Lake Charles
The state was divided into eight Districts with District Directors. The first annual Garden Conference was held in July at Baton Rouge in cooperation with Louisiana State University’s Department of Horticulture. The emblem of the Iris, adopted by LGCF, was designed by Mrs. Reed.
1942-1945 Mrs. Ben Coulter, Winnsboro *
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1945 Mrs. L. M. Waite, Baton Rouge *
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1945-1947 Mrs. G. M. Martin, Lake Charles *
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1942-1945 Mrs. Ben Coulter, Winnsboro
These were difficult years of World War II. Garden Clubs became a vital part of the war effort with their victory gardens and the landscaping of hospital grounds. In April 1944, Highway 61 was designated a Blue Star Drive by the Louisiana Highway Department.
1945 Mrs. L. M. Waite, Baton Rouge
Mrs. Waite served only six months because of ill health. The second unit of Accredited Flower Show Judges Schools was held in Baton Rouge. Mrs. Ben Coulter was now South Atlantic Regional Director with Louisiana one of its eleven states. Anti- billboard legislation was stressed.
1945-1947 Mrs. G. M. Martin, Lake Charles
Mrs. Martin was one of the pioneers in garden club work, having helped to organize, in 1933, the Lake Charles Garden Club, one of the first clubs in the LGCF. During this administration, the 17th annual meeting of National Council of State Garden Clubs was held in New Orleans.
These were difficult years of World War II. Garden Clubs became a vital part of the war effort with their victory gardens and the landscaping of hospital grounds. In April 1944, Highway 61 was designated a Blue Star Drive by the Louisiana Highway Department.
1945 Mrs. L. M. Waite, Baton Rouge
Mrs. Waite served only six months because of ill health. The second unit of Accredited Flower Show Judges Schools was held in Baton Rouge. Mrs. Ben Coulter was now South Atlantic Regional Director with Louisiana one of its eleven states. Anti- billboard legislation was stressed.
1945-1947 Mrs. G. M. Martin, Lake Charles
Mrs. Martin was one of the pioneers in garden club work, having helped to organize, in 1933, the Lake Charles Garden Club, one of the first clubs in the LGCF. During this administration, the 17th annual meeting of National Council of State Garden Clubs was held in New Orleans.
1947-1949 Mrs. U. B. Evans, Ferriday *
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1949-1951 Mrs. Herbert V. Kelley, Baton Rouge *
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1951-1953 Mrs. J. Norris Hanning, New Orleans *
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1947-1949 Mrs. U. B. Evans, Ferriday
For the first time LGCF had a representative on the State Farm Council, the result of a great mutual interest in horticulture. Under Mrs. Evans’ leadership the LGCF succeeded in obtaining legislation for an initial appropriation of $250,000 to foster research in ornamentals and floriculture at Louisiana State University. The Floriculture Research Scholarships also were established. The first State Flower Show was held in New Orleans in March 1949 at the Jerusalem Temple, with forty-one member clubs participating.
1949-1951 Mrs. Herbert V. Kelley, Baton Rouge
Much time and effort was spent in reorganization because of the rapid growth of LGCF. The District Directors were added to the Executive Board. A resolution passed the State Legislature officially recognizing Louisiana’s Blue Star Memorial Highways.
1951-1953 Mrs. J. Norris Hanning, New Orleans
Mrs. Hanning wrote the first Handbook for LGCF, and proceeds went to the Scholarship Fund. A State Council of Flower Show Judges was formed and State Flower Shows were held in conjunction with annual LGCF Conventions in Shreveport and Lake Charles. A new Conservation List was established to protect native flora. A permanent Scholarship Fund was initiated with a $2,000 investment. There were 131 clubs with 6,661 members.
For the first time LGCF had a representative on the State Farm Council, the result of a great mutual interest in horticulture. Under Mrs. Evans’ leadership the LGCF succeeded in obtaining legislation for an initial appropriation of $250,000 to foster research in ornamentals and floriculture at Louisiana State University. The Floriculture Research Scholarships also were established. The first State Flower Show was held in New Orleans in March 1949 at the Jerusalem Temple, with forty-one member clubs participating.
1949-1951 Mrs. Herbert V. Kelley, Baton Rouge
Much time and effort was spent in reorganization because of the rapid growth of LGCF. The District Directors were added to the Executive Board. A resolution passed the State Legislature officially recognizing Louisiana’s Blue Star Memorial Highways.
1951-1953 Mrs. J. Norris Hanning, New Orleans
Mrs. Hanning wrote the first Handbook for LGCF, and proceeds went to the Scholarship Fund. A State Council of Flower Show Judges was formed and State Flower Shows were held in conjunction with annual LGCF Conventions in Shreveport and Lake Charles. A new Conservation List was established to protect native flora. A permanent Scholarship Fund was initiated with a $2,000 investment. There were 131 clubs with 6,661 members.
1953-1955 Judy Osbourne (Mrs. Homer H. Harris), Alexandria *
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1955-1957 Undine Martone, Iowa *
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1959-1961 Sara Gladney, Baton Rouge *
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1953-1955 Judy Osborne, Alexandria
The number of clubs grew to 171 with 7,000 members. New chairmen were appointed: Circulation, Don’t Be a Litter Bug, Inter-club Relations, Permanent Home Fund. Louisiana was host to the South Atlantic Region in Alexandria at the Bentley Hotel. Mrs. Walter Colquitt of Shreveport received the National Award as “The Woman Who Has Done Most for American Horticulture in 1954”.
1955-1957 Undine Martone, Iowa
The LGCF Headquarters Room was dedicated at the Garden Center of the New Orleans Garden Society. Eleven Flower Show Schools were completed, and the first Advanced Refresher Course for Judges was were published. Membership was 8,368 in 192 clubs, held. Two books, a Handbook and Louisiana Arranges Flowers with 45 Junior Clubs. Mrs. Evans received the 1955 National Award as “The Woman Who Has Done Most for American Horticulture”.
1957-1959 Sara Gladney, Baton Rouge
The state’s first Cleanest City Contest, in 1958, won a National Award. Six special Landscape Design Schools were held in cooperation with Louisiana State University Extension Service. Two books were published by LGCF members: The Art of Flower and Foliage Arrangement by Anna H. Rutt and Flowers Native to the Deep South by Caroline Dorman.
The number of clubs grew to 171 with 7,000 members. New chairmen were appointed: Circulation, Don’t Be a Litter Bug, Inter-club Relations, Permanent Home Fund. Louisiana was host to the South Atlantic Region in Alexandria at the Bentley Hotel. Mrs. Walter Colquitt of Shreveport received the National Award as “The Woman Who Has Done Most for American Horticulture in 1954”.
1955-1957 Undine Martone, Iowa
The LGCF Headquarters Room was dedicated at the Garden Center of the New Orleans Garden Society. Eleven Flower Show Schools were completed, and the first Advanced Refresher Course for Judges was were published. Membership was 8,368 in 192 clubs, held. Two books, a Handbook and Louisiana Arranges Flowers with 45 Junior Clubs. Mrs. Evans received the 1955 National Award as “The Woman Who Has Done Most for American Horticulture”.
1957-1959 Sara Gladney, Baton Rouge
The state’s first Cleanest City Contest, in 1958, won a National Award. Six special Landscape Design Schools were held in cooperation with Louisiana State University Extension Service. Two books were published by LGCF members: The Art of Flower and Foliage Arrangement by Anna H. Rutt and Flowers Native to the Deep South by Caroline Dorman.
1959-1961 Ruth Miller, Shreveport *
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1961-1963 Joyce Smith, New Orleans *
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1963-1965 Nan Jordan, New Iberia *
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1959-1961 Ruth Miller, Shreveport
Membership increased to 10,545 in 279 clubs. A Publication Board for the Newsletter was appointed. A reference file of all LGCF actions on policy was compiled. The South Atlantic Region was divided, and Louisiana, with five other states, became the Deep South Region in 1961, with Mrs. Homer H. Harris the first Regional Director.
1961-1663 Joyce Smith, New Orleans
Membership was 11,010 in 297 clubs, 300 High School Gardeners in 14 units and 806 Juniors in 75 clubs. A working manual kit for each club was created; a cover was added to the Newsletter; a state-wide horticulture program was instituted; and the LGCF sponsored the Louisiana Festival of Roses at Hodges Gardens. The Constitution and Bylaws were revised and application for incorporation was submitted. A Book of Memories was donated and placed in the LGCF Room of the New Orleans Garden Center.
1963-1965 Nan Jordan, New Iberia
The LGCF Charter was approved and published in the September 1963 Newsletter. A Civic Development Chairman was appointed and the first state-wide Conservation Conference was held. The first series of Landscape Design Courses was completed with 19 students. The first All-Juniors Flower Show was held in New Orleans.
Membership increased to 10,545 in 279 clubs. A Publication Board for the Newsletter was appointed. A reference file of all LGCF actions on policy was compiled. The South Atlantic Region was divided, and Louisiana, with five other states, became the Deep South Region in 1961, with Mrs. Homer H. Harris the first Regional Director.
1961-1663 Joyce Smith, New Orleans
Membership was 11,010 in 297 clubs, 300 High School Gardeners in 14 units and 806 Juniors in 75 clubs. A working manual kit for each club was created; a cover was added to the Newsletter; a state-wide horticulture program was instituted; and the LGCF sponsored the Louisiana Festival of Roses at Hodges Gardens. The Constitution and Bylaws were revised and application for incorporation was submitted. A Book of Memories was donated and placed in the LGCF Room of the New Orleans Garden Center.
1963-1965 Nan Jordan, New Iberia
The LGCF Charter was approved and published in the September 1963 Newsletter. A Civic Development Chairman was appointed and the first state-wide Conservation Conference was held. The first series of Landscape Design Courses was completed with 19 students. The first All-Juniors Flower Show was held in New Orleans.
1965-1967 Pearl Yawn, New Roads *
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1967-1969 Donna Beckman, Alexandria *
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1969-1971 Esther Carriere, Winnsboro *
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1965-1967 Pearl Yawn, Baton Rouge
The 37th Annual NCSGC Convention was held in New Orleans. The Nan Jordan Landscape Architecture Award was established as a temporary award. With its De-Litter Program, the DeRidder Gardenettes won the Keep America Beautiful Contest and Louisiana won the Deep South Region’s trophy for most National Gardener subscriptions. Membership was 8,517 in 265 clubs, 26 Junior Clubs and 5 High School Clubs.
1967-1969 Donna Beckman, Alexandria
The 7th Annual Deep South Region Convention was held in Baton Rouge. The State Flower Show Fund became a revolving fund, available as an advance to any club or clubs staging a State Flower Show. A Conservation Conference was held at Chalmette National Park. In the National Awards for best Yearbooks, Louisiana won three of five categories offered. A series of Landscape Design Schools was approved.
1969-1971 Esther Carriere, Winnsboro
Louisiana’s 26 entries in the Sears Roebuck Civic Improvement Contest was the most outstanding first year achievement experienced in the Southern States. The Live Oak Society listed 339 registered trees, and the LGCF adopted a standardized Bird Sanctuary Sign, noting that 75% of the Garden Club towns and cities were Bird Sanctuaries.
The 37th Annual NCSGC Convention was held in New Orleans. The Nan Jordan Landscape Architecture Award was established as a temporary award. With its De-Litter Program, the DeRidder Gardenettes won the Keep America Beautiful Contest and Louisiana won the Deep South Region’s trophy for most National Gardener subscriptions. Membership was 8,517 in 265 clubs, 26 Junior Clubs and 5 High School Clubs.
1967-1969 Donna Beckman, Alexandria
The 7th Annual Deep South Region Convention was held in Baton Rouge. The State Flower Show Fund became a revolving fund, available as an advance to any club or clubs staging a State Flower Show. A Conservation Conference was held at Chalmette National Park. In the National Awards for best Yearbooks, Louisiana won three of five categories offered. A series of Landscape Design Schools was approved.
1969-1971 Esther Carriere, Winnsboro
Louisiana’s 26 entries in the Sears Roebuck Civic Improvement Contest was the most outstanding first year achievement experienced in the Southern States. The Live Oak Society listed 339 registered trees, and the LGCF adopted a standardized Bird Sanctuary Sign, noting that 75% of the Garden Club towns and cities were Bird Sanctuaries.
1971-1973 Irene M. Petitjean, Rayne *
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1973-1975 Ducie Heaney, New Orleans *
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1975-1977 Alvera Conley, Minden *
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1971-1973 Irene M. Petitjean, Rayne
The Headquarters Fund was established with a Memorial donation, the fund to be further augmented with revenues from LGCF sponsored travel tours and from one-half of each Life Membership fee. A Memorial Service for deceased LGCF members was given for the first time at the 1972 convention. Five series of Flower Show Schools, two Symposia and a series of Landscape Design Schools were held.
1973-1975 Ducie Heaney, New Orleans
The first Conservation Camp was sponsored by the LGCF and Southern Forest Institute, Inc. at the Alexandria State Forest. Garden clubs numbered 232 with 7,361 members. There were 16 Junior Clubs, 2 Intermediate and 6 High School Clubs. Five Flower Show School Series and two Symposia were held.
1975-1977 Alvera Conley, Minden
State Headquarters Home was established at Lecompte. The third edition of the LGCF Handbook was published in March of 1977. LGCF pins were approved for Past Presidents, District Directors and Life Members. A Past LGCF President’s pin was given to each of the preceding Presidents. The Bicentennial Year of the United States was observed in many ways, one being the tracing of the route of the William Bartrum Trail through Louisiana. Nine Flower Show Schools and three Symposia were held and Series V of Landscape Design School was begun.
The Headquarters Fund was established with a Memorial donation, the fund to be further augmented with revenues from LGCF sponsored travel tours and from one-half of each Life Membership fee. A Memorial Service for deceased LGCF members was given for the first time at the 1972 convention. Five series of Flower Show Schools, two Symposia and a series of Landscape Design Schools were held.
1973-1975 Ducie Heaney, New Orleans
The first Conservation Camp was sponsored by the LGCF and Southern Forest Institute, Inc. at the Alexandria State Forest. Garden clubs numbered 232 with 7,361 members. There were 16 Junior Clubs, 2 Intermediate and 6 High School Clubs. Five Flower Show School Series and two Symposia were held.
1975-1977 Alvera Conley, Minden
State Headquarters Home was established at Lecompte. The third edition of the LGCF Handbook was published in March of 1977. LGCF pins were approved for Past Presidents, District Directors and Life Members. A Past LGCF President’s pin was given to each of the preceding Presidents. The Bicentennial Year of the United States was observed in many ways, one being the tracing of the route of the William Bartrum Trail through Louisiana. Nine Flower Show Schools and three Symposia were held and Series V of Landscape Design School was begun.
1977-1979 Carmelite Brechtel, New Orleans *
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1979-1981 Dorothy Trahin, Morgan City *
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1981-1983 Marilyn Carlton, Lecompte *
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1977-1979 Carmelite Brechtel, New Orleans
The first SEEK Program (Save the Earth’s Environment through Knowledge) was held in August 1977 in Orlando, Florida. Louisiana had the largest attendance: five counselors and nineteen High School Gardeners. The members of the LGCF voted to pay in full for their new Home in Lecompte. The first Environmental Education Workshop was held in Alexandria State Park, Woodworth, LA. The LGCF was host to the National Convention in New Orleans, May 1979.
1979-1981 Dorothy Trahin, Morgan City
LGCF dedicated the two oak trees on Headquarters’ grounds honoring the late Dr. Edwin Stephens and the late Lucille Brown. Seven delegates represented the LGCF at “Exposition 50” in Washington, D.C., a fitting climax to National Council’s 50th Birthday. LGCF was cited by CARE for the contribution of $500.00 for a special project in Haiti. Approval was granted for the purchase of a specially designed “President’s Pin”. A diamond was furnished by each of the eight Districts, adding greatly to the pin’s beauty.
1981-1983 Marilyn Carlton, Lecompte
Theme: “Nature’s Realm-A Challenge to Enjoy”
The LGCF Endowment Fund was established and scholarships were increased. Five Flower Show Judges School Series were completed; Series VI Landscape Design Study Course was held in conjunction with the LSU Continuing Education Program. The first series of the Gardening Study Courses started at Louisiana Tech in Ruston. The Live Oak Society received national recognition with an article published in Audubon Magazine. Leadership workshops were held and the first Training Session for incoming District Directors was implemented.
1983-1985 Zelda Rose, Covington *
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1985-1987 Valerie Barnum, Jonesboro *
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1987-1989 Charlotte Colosky, Lake Charles
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1983-1985 Zelda Rose, Covington
During this administration the LGCF 50th Anniversary was celebrated in Shreveport. Marilyn Carlton was elected to serve as Deep South Regional Director. Mrs. Lyle Johnsrud, 1983-85 NCSGC President, was our guest and members of the LGCF served as hostesses for the “Louisiana Native Plants in the Landscape” Exhibit at the 1984 Louisiana World Exposition in New Orleans. Six $1,000.00 Scholarships were awarded.
1985-1987 Valerie Barnum, Jonesboro
Theme: “Aspire, Act, and Accomplish”
The LGCF Handbook 4th Edition was revised and was ready for use in 1987. The first LGCF sponsored Flower Show Schools Symposium was held in Baton Rouge in April 1986. Two Flower Show Judges Schools were in progress in Districts IV and VI and a series of Landscape Design Study Courses was successfully completed. The Unified Regional Project, “Adopt-A-Park” was emphasized by LGCF. District VII presented LGCF a beautiful official banner.
1987-1989 Charlotte Colosky, Lake Charles
Theme: “Through Challenge and Commitment - A Better Tomorrow”
The Cleanest City Contest celebrated 30 years of participation with a record number of entries. The LGCF hosted the 1988 NCSGC Winter Executive Committee Meeting in New Orleans and was the host for the National Landscape Design Symposium that same year. Two Flower Show Judges Schools were held. Headquarters Home in Lecompte underwent extensive renovations to the building and gardens.
During this administration the LGCF 50th Anniversary was celebrated in Shreveport. Marilyn Carlton was elected to serve as Deep South Regional Director. Mrs. Lyle Johnsrud, 1983-85 NCSGC President, was our guest and members of the LGCF served as hostesses for the “Louisiana Native Plants in the Landscape” Exhibit at the 1984 Louisiana World Exposition in New Orleans. Six $1,000.00 Scholarships were awarded.
1985-1987 Valerie Barnum, Jonesboro
Theme: “Aspire, Act, and Accomplish”
The LGCF Handbook 4th Edition was revised and was ready for use in 1987. The first LGCF sponsored Flower Show Schools Symposium was held in Baton Rouge in April 1986. Two Flower Show Judges Schools were in progress in Districts IV and VI and a series of Landscape Design Study Courses was successfully completed. The Unified Regional Project, “Adopt-A-Park” was emphasized by LGCF. District VII presented LGCF a beautiful official banner.
1987-1989 Charlotte Colosky, Lake Charles
Theme: “Through Challenge and Commitment - A Better Tomorrow”
The Cleanest City Contest celebrated 30 years of participation with a record number of entries. The LGCF hosted the 1988 NCSGC Winter Executive Committee Meeting in New Orleans and was the host for the National Landscape Design Symposium that same year. Two Flower Show Judges Schools were held. Headquarters Home in Lecompte underwent extensive renovations to the building and gardens.
1989-1991 Billie Massa, River Ridge
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1991-1993 Marie Wissman, Bossier City *
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1993-1995 Betty Bagert, New Orleans*
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1989-1991 Billie Massa, River Ridge
Theme: “Encourage and Educate for Excellence”
Two Solid Waste Management Conferences were held. Four Landscape Design Study Courses, seven Flower Show Judges Schools and a Flower Show Judges Symposium were successfully undertaken. LGCF member clubs made donations to the Hurricane Hugo Fund. Participation in Community Coffee’s Garden project resulted in the LGCF being the recipient of a $2,000.00 award from the company. A special highlight of this administration was the selection of the LGCF entry as the new Deep South Region Logo; the winning design was submitted by Billie’s daughter, Ronda M. Berger.
1991-1993 Marie Wissman, Bossier City
Theme: “Every Garden Club Member is a VIP”
The concept of visual reports was introduced for all LGCF meetings. The Hurricane Andrew Committee was organized and a matching federal grant was received for replacement of trees destroyed in South Louisiana communities. Beautification of Louisiana Welcome Centers in cooperation with state officials and local garden clubs was successfully begun. An Energy Awareness Conference was held. A “Rainbow’s End” project for Headquarters and a “300 Club” for the Newsletter produced needed revenue for both enterprises. Garden Study Courses were approved and implemented. A State Flower Show was held in conjunction with the State Convention.
1993-1995 Betty Bagert, New Orleans
Theme: “Plan and Plant for the Future”
The LGCF celebrated its sixtieth anniversary. An LGCF Membership Pin was designed, A Membership Brochure was created, and the LGCF published its first cookbook, Cher…It’s Good! Four Flower Show Judges Schools and one Symposium, five Landscape Design Study Courses and one Regional Symposium, and three Gardening Study Courses were successfully completed. LGCF received a $500.00 PETALS Grant to grow trees at the prisons for Louisiana Rest Centers. LGCF received the NCSGC Bronze Seal Award, highest honor to a State Federation.
Theme: “Encourage and Educate for Excellence”
Two Solid Waste Management Conferences were held. Four Landscape Design Study Courses, seven Flower Show Judges Schools and a Flower Show Judges Symposium were successfully undertaken. LGCF member clubs made donations to the Hurricane Hugo Fund. Participation in Community Coffee’s Garden project resulted in the LGCF being the recipient of a $2,000.00 award from the company. A special highlight of this administration was the selection of the LGCF entry as the new Deep South Region Logo; the winning design was submitted by Billie’s daughter, Ronda M. Berger.
1991-1993 Marie Wissman, Bossier City
Theme: “Every Garden Club Member is a VIP”
The concept of visual reports was introduced for all LGCF meetings. The Hurricane Andrew Committee was organized and a matching federal grant was received for replacement of trees destroyed in South Louisiana communities. Beautification of Louisiana Welcome Centers in cooperation with state officials and local garden clubs was successfully begun. An Energy Awareness Conference was held. A “Rainbow’s End” project for Headquarters and a “300 Club” for the Newsletter produced needed revenue for both enterprises. Garden Study Courses were approved and implemented. A State Flower Show was held in conjunction with the State Convention.
1993-1995 Betty Bagert, New Orleans
Theme: “Plan and Plant for the Future”
The LGCF celebrated its sixtieth anniversary. An LGCF Membership Pin was designed, A Membership Brochure was created, and the LGCF published its first cookbook, Cher…It’s Good! Four Flower Show Judges Schools and one Symposium, five Landscape Design Study Courses and one Regional Symposium, and three Gardening Study Courses were successfully completed. LGCF received a $500.00 PETALS Grant to grow trees at the prisons for Louisiana Rest Centers. LGCF received the NCSGC Bronze Seal Award, highest honor to a State Federation.
Bera Smith * 1995-1997
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Sara Ann Weiss * 1997-1999
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Peggy Cazes * 1999-2001
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1995-1997 Bera Smith, Lafayette
Theme: “Enrichment through Involvement”
The Circle of Roses – a project to honor long time LGCF Members was created by Bera and implemented. The Live Oak Society continued to grow with 28 Oaks at Oak Alley Plantation inducted into the Society.
1997-1999 Sara T. Weiss, Alexandria
Theme: “Through Participation, Communication and Education…We Can Make a Difference”
LGCF participated in the Unified Regional Project “Naturally Native” by planting butterfly gardens and expanding the use of native plants in the landscape. $11,500 was collected for the National Garden Project in Washington, D.C. Coreopsis tinctoria was planted statewide with the help of Alice Foster, wife of Louisiana’s governor.
1999-2001 Peggy Cazes, Baton Rouge
Theme: “Innovation – Bridge to the New Millennium”
The project – LGCF Plants Seeds of Service - divided $5000 among the eight Districts as a part of the Unified Regional Project, “Environmentally Yours”. Forty flower shows were held and LGCF participated in the International Flower Show in San Diego, CA. The Live Oak Society celebrated its 65th Anniversary.
Theme: “Enrichment through Involvement”
The Circle of Roses – a project to honor long time LGCF Members was created by Bera and implemented. The Live Oak Society continued to grow with 28 Oaks at Oak Alley Plantation inducted into the Society.
1997-1999 Sara T. Weiss, Alexandria
Theme: “Through Participation, Communication and Education…We Can Make a Difference”
LGCF participated in the Unified Regional Project “Naturally Native” by planting butterfly gardens and expanding the use of native plants in the landscape. $11,500 was collected for the National Garden Project in Washington, D.C. Coreopsis tinctoria was planted statewide with the help of Alice Foster, wife of Louisiana’s governor.
1999-2001 Peggy Cazes, Baton Rouge
Theme: “Innovation – Bridge to the New Millennium”
The project – LGCF Plants Seeds of Service - divided $5000 among the eight Districts as a part of the Unified Regional Project, “Environmentally Yours”. Forty flower shows were held and LGCF participated in the International Flower Show in San Diego, CA. The Live Oak Society celebrated its 65th Anniversary.
Mary Sue Colvin 2001-2003
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Margo Racca 2003-2005
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Annmary Miester * 2005-2007
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2001-2003 Mary Sue Colvin, Fort Necessity
Theme: “Leaving Footprints in the Garden of Life”
The creation of the LGCF Website, www.louisianagardenclubs.org, was a significant achievement as LGCF began its journey into the 21st Century. The Live Oak Society registered 4,253 trees bringing the total to over 5,000 trees. In response to the NGC President’s “Two Million Trees” Project, LGCF members planted 84,935 trees during the two years.
2003-2005 Margo Racca, Iowa
Theme: “The World is Our Garden”
Two Flower Show Judges Schools, a Gardening Study series and Landscape Design School were completed. Many clubs celebrated 75th, 60th and 50th Anniversaries around the state. Another cookbook – Cher, It’s Good, Too was published. Landscaping Habitat for Humanity homes was a special project during this administration.
2005-2007, Annamary K. Miester, New Orleans
Theme: “Garden Clubs Add Spice to Life”
The hurricanes that battered our state in 2005 left some unforgettable scars on our communities and landscape. Thanks to the tenacity of our LGCF members, Louisiana is well upon the road to recovery. Garden clubs received generous grants from the Principal Financial Group toward installing flags and trees to enhance their city or park entrances. The NGC Patriotic Tree Project was embraced wholeheartedly – some of these trees have replaced those lost to Hurricanes Katrina and Rita.
Theme: “Leaving Footprints in the Garden of Life”
The creation of the LGCF Website, www.louisianagardenclubs.org, was a significant achievement as LGCF began its journey into the 21st Century. The Live Oak Society registered 4,253 trees bringing the total to over 5,000 trees. In response to the NGC President’s “Two Million Trees” Project, LGCF members planted 84,935 trees during the two years.
2003-2005 Margo Racca, Iowa
Theme: “The World is Our Garden”
Two Flower Show Judges Schools, a Gardening Study series and Landscape Design School were completed. Many clubs celebrated 75th, 60th and 50th Anniversaries around the state. Another cookbook – Cher, It’s Good, Too was published. Landscaping Habitat for Humanity homes was a special project during this administration.
2005-2007, Annamary K. Miester, New Orleans
Theme: “Garden Clubs Add Spice to Life”
The hurricanes that battered our state in 2005 left some unforgettable scars on our communities and landscape. Thanks to the tenacity of our LGCF members, Louisiana is well upon the road to recovery. Garden clubs received generous grants from the Principal Financial Group toward installing flags and trees to enhance their city or park entrances. The NGC Patriotic Tree Project was embraced wholeheartedly – some of these trees have replaced those lost to Hurricanes Katrina and Rita.
2007-2009 Sybil Colicchio, Shreveport *
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2009-2011 Donna Bucci, Morgan City
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2011-2013 Mary Jacobs, Kenner
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007-2009, Sybil Collichio, Shreveport
Theme: “Guardians of the Earth”
Flower Show Judges Schools, Gardening Study Schools and Landscape Design Schools were held during this administration. Deep South Project “Flower Hour Program – Table Matters” taught children how to set a table, create a small table design and learn table manners. Many programs around the state featured Louisiana native plants. Blue Star markers in Louisiana number 49 Highway Markers, 15 by-Way Markers and 1 Memorial Marker. The Live Oak Society celebrated its 75th Anniversary as well as LGCF, Inc.
2009-2011, Donna Bucci, Morgan City
Theme: “Protect and Conserve our Natural Resources”
The 75th Anniversary of the Live Oak Society and the LGCF was commemorated in 2010. Members celebrated with many projects and activities culminating with a Gala attended by our NGC President Renee Blaschke. The accomplishments of this administration included having all 4 NGC Schools established in our state; presented an LGCF Native Plant List Book authored by Beth Erwin; formed a Freedom Isn’t Free Project in which our goal was to establish Blue Star Memorial Markers at all military installations in our state. The project began with a marker dedicated at the World War II Museum in New Orleans. Our organization partnered with “America’s Wetlands” to help encourage awareness and legislation to restore Louisiana’s coast; “Acorns of Hope” to help replant Live Oaks on lands affected by recent hurricanes, and “Keep Louisiana Beautiful”. Lastly, we placed one of our members on the KLB Board of Directors.
2011-2013 Mary Jacobs, Kenner
Theme: “Continuing Our Legacy of Beautification, Education and Restoration”
The Live Oak Society registered 705 trees and total closed at 7,137. The four NGC Schools were successfully completed. The Beauty of Life Garden Award was introduced along with Award #30-Cleanest City Challenge in honor of Mrs. Dorothy Ann Norsworthy George. The Cleanest City Contest added two new awards #31-A & B. LGCF Tour Chairman and members traveled to Burbank Tournament of Roses, decorating a float which placed 1st in Mayor’s Category. Seven new Garden Clubs joined LGCF, Inc. An Educational DVD titled “Save Our World One Drop at a Time” was composed by Janet Moriarty and Tom Jackson along with fliers available to our members at no charge. The Deep South Region of NGC, Inc. presented the Certificate of Achievement Award #6 Membership Award to LGCF, Inc.
Theme: “Guardians of the Earth”
Flower Show Judges Schools, Gardening Study Schools and Landscape Design Schools were held during this administration. Deep South Project “Flower Hour Program – Table Matters” taught children how to set a table, create a small table design and learn table manners. Many programs around the state featured Louisiana native plants. Blue Star markers in Louisiana number 49 Highway Markers, 15 by-Way Markers and 1 Memorial Marker. The Live Oak Society celebrated its 75th Anniversary as well as LGCF, Inc.
2009-2011, Donna Bucci, Morgan City
Theme: “Protect and Conserve our Natural Resources”
The 75th Anniversary of the Live Oak Society and the LGCF was commemorated in 2010. Members celebrated with many projects and activities culminating with a Gala attended by our NGC President Renee Blaschke. The accomplishments of this administration included having all 4 NGC Schools established in our state; presented an LGCF Native Plant List Book authored by Beth Erwin; formed a Freedom Isn’t Free Project in which our goal was to establish Blue Star Memorial Markers at all military installations in our state. The project began with a marker dedicated at the World War II Museum in New Orleans. Our organization partnered with “America’s Wetlands” to help encourage awareness and legislation to restore Louisiana’s coast; “Acorns of Hope” to help replant Live Oaks on lands affected by recent hurricanes, and “Keep Louisiana Beautiful”. Lastly, we placed one of our members on the KLB Board of Directors.
2011-2013 Mary Jacobs, Kenner
Theme: “Continuing Our Legacy of Beautification, Education and Restoration”
The Live Oak Society registered 705 trees and total closed at 7,137. The four NGC Schools were successfully completed. The Beauty of Life Garden Award was introduced along with Award #30-Cleanest City Challenge in honor of Mrs. Dorothy Ann Norsworthy George. The Cleanest City Contest added two new awards #31-A & B. LGCF Tour Chairman and members traveled to Burbank Tournament of Roses, decorating a float which placed 1st in Mayor’s Category. Seven new Garden Clubs joined LGCF, Inc. An Educational DVD titled “Save Our World One Drop at a Time” was composed by Janet Moriarty and Tom Jackson along with fliers available to our members at no charge. The Deep South Region of NGC, Inc. presented the Certificate of Achievement Award #6 Membership Award to LGCF, Inc.
2013-2015 Yvette Hebert, Alexandria
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2015-2017 Jeanette Gatzman, Baton Rouge*
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2017-2019 Lena Bateman, Ferriday
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2013-2015 Yvette Hebert, Alexandria
Theme: “Nature’s World Where Everything Belongs”
LGCF celebrated its 80th Anniversary at the 2014 LGCF Convention with guests Gloria Blake, Deep South Regional Director and Cindy O’Donnell, Alternate Regional Director, both from Florida. Linda Nelson, NGC President 2013-15, from Keizer, Oregon and the NGC Winter Executive Committee met in New Orleans January 2014. Linda joined us again at our 2015 Summer Board Meeting in Baton Rouge. Several milestones were accomplished during this administration. In August of 2014 the Cleanest City Contest, started in 1958, received the endorsement and full support of The Louisiana Municipal Association, consisting of 600 mayors. The very first NGC 5 Star Member, Margo Racca, was recognized. Live Oak Society welcomed 507 new members. A total of five (5) Blue Star Markers were dedicated and one (1) was rededicated during this administration. LGCF had two NGC National Scholarship winners and also held four (4) different NGC Schools and a Flower Show Judges Symposium.
2015-2017 Jeanette Gatzman
Theme: “Who Are We? Who Do We Want To Be?”
The main focus of this administration was the revision of our LGCF Handbook to find out “Who are we? Who do we want to be”? The books were available during 2017. In June, 2016 we visited the Governor’s Mansion in Baton Rouge, planted eight (8) “Peggy Martin Survivor Roses” in the mansion garden and made First Lady Donna H. Edwards an honorary member of LGCF. Two of our largest and most successful ongoing projects, the Cleanest City Contest and the Live Oak Society, grew by leaps and bounds during these two years. There were 42 entries in the 2016 Cleanest City Contest and we now have over 8, 200 Live Oaks in fourteen states in our Live Oak Society. Many Blue Star Markers were installed all over the state. The moving dedication ceremonies always remind us that “Freedom Isn’t Free”. We now have 84 Blue Star Markers in Louisiana. Environmental Study Schools, Flower Show Judges Schools, Gardening Study Schools and Landscape Design Schools are going full force.
2017-2019 Lena Bateman
- We have had great success in the protection of our natural resources, encouraging civic pride in our communities, advancing the art of gardening, landscape design and the study of horticulture through the NGC Supported
Schools and educational scholarships. By participating in the “Keep Louisiana Beautiful” campaign, we continue to promote a campaign against the littering of our roadsides and waterways, as well as promote civic pride. Our Cleanest City contest and the popular saying, “Love the Boot, Don’t Pollute,” say just that. We are very proud of our Blue Star Program with two Blue Star Markers dedicated in 2018-19 and one Gold Star Marker going to France to be dedicated on June 6, the 75th anniversary of D-Day, in the small village of St. Mere Eglise. The monument is dedicated to the efforts of a lady, Simone Renaud, who is lovingly called “The Mother of Normandy” for all that she did for the American families of those loved ones who are buried in France. This is the first time a Blue or Gold Star Monument has left the United States. I attended a very moving ceremony at the WW II Museum in New Orleans, presenting the marker to the son of this amazing lady. Louisiana is fortunate to have The Live Oak Society with 8,675 members in eleven states and with only one human as a member. During my term in office, we have registered 361 beautiful Live Oaks and have saved countless trees from destruction. Coleen Landry, Live Oak Chairman, works very hard to gain new members. Thanks, Coleen, for all you do for the preservation of our beautiful Live Oaks.
2019-2021 Linda Finley
Lake Charles |
2021-2023 Roxanna Champagne, Lafayette
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2023-2025 Patricia “Tricia” Ortalano
Marrero |
2019-2021 Linda Finley
When my term as LGCF President began in 2019, I chose to view the next two years as an adventurous journey. Oh, what an adventure it has been—and not exactly as planned. Some roads were permanently blocked. Detours were taken. Nothing followed the map. However, new trails were blazed and new ideas took shape. The destination is in view. Two years is not really a long time after all. We had great plans. Many of those plans were placed on hold. The goal of installing Blue Star Markers at the Louisiana Welcome Centers started successfully in January 2020 at the I-10 Welcome Center in Slidell. I am happy to report that a Blue Star Memorial Marker has been ordered for the I-10 Vinton Welcome Center. We hope to be able to install it in April 2021. “Bring Nature Home with Native Plants” is still good advice. After multiple hurricanes and snow and ice, the native plants are surviving better than the non-natives. It’s never too late to add them to your landscape. The business of the Federation continued through emails, postal mail, phone calls, conference calls, Zoom meetings and a few in-person meetings. The most recent meeting was the Winter Executive Council Meeting on February 23. Because the 2021 Convention will not be held, a decision was made about the method of voting by the Board of Directors. Ballots were due on March 29. The results will be announced later this month. The current Native Plant List will be replaced by the Louisiana Native Plant Society’s Louisiana Certified Native Plant List. Future Convention sites are: 2022— Baton Rouge; 2023—Vidalia; and 2024—Lake Charles. Instead of an installation, Roxanna and I will meet at the end of April to transfer the President’s files, the President’s pin and gavel, and all that goes with the office. We hope to have photos of the occasion to post. Other 2019- 2021 officers and chairmen should make plans to transfer materials to their successors.
2021-2023 Roxanna Champagne
LGCF hosted three conventions during the past two years. In April of 2023 LGCF hosted the Deep South Garden Clubs Convention in Kenner at which a Tri-Refresher was held.
Four Environmental courses, one gardening course, two landscape design courses and a Flower Show Symposium were held. Over 400 live oak trees have been registered. Three Blue Star Memorial Markers and one Gold Star Memorial Marker were dedicated. Under our continuing project “Freedom Isn’t Free” we are collecting funds so that all Louisiana Veterans Cemeteries will have Blue Star Memorial Markers. Our clubs have sponsored numerous NGC Standard and Small Standard Flower Shows, planted trees for Arbor Day, presented Garden of the Month and Business of the Month awards to encourage pride in our communities, civic beautification projects, maintain Blue Star Memorial Markers, established and maintain butterfly gardens, and worked with junior garden clubs to name a few of their projects.
When my term as LGCF President began in 2019, I chose to view the next two years as an adventurous journey. Oh, what an adventure it has been—and not exactly as planned. Some roads were permanently blocked. Detours were taken. Nothing followed the map. However, new trails were blazed and new ideas took shape. The destination is in view. Two years is not really a long time after all. We had great plans. Many of those plans were placed on hold. The goal of installing Blue Star Markers at the Louisiana Welcome Centers started successfully in January 2020 at the I-10 Welcome Center in Slidell. I am happy to report that a Blue Star Memorial Marker has been ordered for the I-10 Vinton Welcome Center. We hope to be able to install it in April 2021. “Bring Nature Home with Native Plants” is still good advice. After multiple hurricanes and snow and ice, the native plants are surviving better than the non-natives. It’s never too late to add them to your landscape. The business of the Federation continued through emails, postal mail, phone calls, conference calls, Zoom meetings and a few in-person meetings. The most recent meeting was the Winter Executive Council Meeting on February 23. Because the 2021 Convention will not be held, a decision was made about the method of voting by the Board of Directors. Ballots were due on March 29. The results will be announced later this month. The current Native Plant List will be replaced by the Louisiana Native Plant Society’s Louisiana Certified Native Plant List. Future Convention sites are: 2022— Baton Rouge; 2023—Vidalia; and 2024—Lake Charles. Instead of an installation, Roxanna and I will meet at the end of April to transfer the President’s files, the President’s pin and gavel, and all that goes with the office. We hope to have photos of the occasion to post. Other 2019- 2021 officers and chairmen should make plans to transfer materials to their successors.
2021-2023 Roxanna Champagne
LGCF hosted three conventions during the past two years. In April of 2023 LGCF hosted the Deep South Garden Clubs Convention in Kenner at which a Tri-Refresher was held.
Four Environmental courses, one gardening course, two landscape design courses and a Flower Show Symposium were held. Over 400 live oak trees have been registered. Three Blue Star Memorial Markers and one Gold Star Memorial Marker were dedicated. Under our continuing project “Freedom Isn’t Free” we are collecting funds so that all Louisiana Veterans Cemeteries will have Blue Star Memorial Markers. Our clubs have sponsored numerous NGC Standard and Small Standard Flower Shows, planted trees for Arbor Day, presented Garden of the Month and Business of the Month awards to encourage pride in our communities, civic beautification projects, maintain Blue Star Memorial Markers, established and maintain butterfly gardens, and worked with junior garden clubs to name a few of their projects.
Katherine Landry and Jeanette Gatzman
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Mary Jacobs, streetcar conductor, April 15, 2013
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Former DSGC Director 2009-2011 Mary Sue Colvin, Former LGCF Presidents Donna Bucci, Margo Racca
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Marjorie Hendon, Former DSG Director Lena Bateman
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2003 LGCF CONVENTION
Top Row left to right: Laura Broussard, Myra Mehrtens, Jeanette Gatzman, Linda Finley, Kathy Bedenbaugh, Harriet Osborne, Eleanor Capretto, Martha McBurney, Annamary Miester, Billie Franz, Harriette Charles
Middle Row Seated Left to right: Lucille Gates, Eleanor Talley, Betty Bagert, Peggy Cazes, Mary Sue Colvin, Margo Racca, Bera Smith, Billie Massa
Seated on Floor left to right: Donna Bucci, ???, Sarah LeBlanc, Jo Ann Ryan, Mary Evitt
Top Row left to right: Laura Broussard, Myra Mehrtens, Jeanette Gatzman, Linda Finley, Kathy Bedenbaugh, Harriet Osborne, Eleanor Capretto, Martha McBurney, Annamary Miester, Billie Franz, Harriette Charles
Middle Row Seated Left to right: Lucille Gates, Eleanor Talley, Betty Bagert, Peggy Cazes, Mary Sue Colvin, Margo Racca, Bera Smith, Billie Massa
Seated on Floor left to right: Donna Bucci, ???, Sarah LeBlanc, Jo Ann Ryan, Mary Evitt
President Roxanna Champagne, President Elect Patricia "Tricia" Ortalano
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Linda Finley 2019-2021
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LGCF Inc. Convention - Vidalia LA 4/17-19/2023
LGCF Inc. Presidents: Mary Sue Colvin, Margo Racca, Donna Bucci, Mary Jacobs, Yvette Hebert, Lena Bateman, Linda Finley, Roxanna Champagne, Patricia "Tricia" Ortalano
LGCF, Inc.
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