BY BARBARA PELLECHIO
Garden Club of the Lakes VP
On Aug. 20, 1959, plans for the Garden Club of the Lakes were initiated by Mr. Emory (Bee) Cooper and Mrs. L.E. Harris at the home of Mrs. Edmond Dwyer. The Garden Club of the Lakes joined the Florida Federation of Garden Clubs.
There were 18 members in the first club. As the club grew, local governments, along with the Federation of Garden Clubs and National Garden Clubs, recognized the many outstanding civic and conservation projects that include ongoing beautification, community outreach and service to the Lake Region.
The group strives to promote “gardening for fun and community service”.
In October of this year, we celebrated the Garden Club of the Lakes’ 60th birthday! We had balloons, a large cake with a “ruby” on it to signify 60 years and ice cream. Care Valleau shared her love of succulents.
We learned that all succulents are not created equal! Each variety can have their own needs. It is best to inquire about those needs to have the plants flourish. Succulents vary greatly; some are smooth, some are prickly, and some are even hairy!
In November, Dr. John Patterson of Wild Birds Unlimited in Argyle in Orange Park, gave a comprehensive presentation about plants to attract birds!
This month we will celebrate the holidays with a potluck lunch and fellowship.
Our next club event is the Christmas parade on Saturday, Dec. 11, starting at 6 p.m. We will be handing out packets of seeds! Hope to see you there!
The Garden Club of the Lakes meets every month at the Faith Presbyterian Church at 2738 State Road 21 in Melrose (at the Midway on 21 and 21B). We meet at 10 a.m. Come to join us! Face masks are required.
