RAIN Cools the Flames of Anger: Shambhala Sun September 2014
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THE MOUNTAIN LAUREL Fall 2019 Southwest District VFGC, Inc. “Just Winging It ~ Soaring to New Heights in Gardening” SW District President, Lizzie Mann Greetings Southwest District Members: “Welcome Back!” I hope everyone had a wonderful Summer, and is ready to regroup as a district at the Fall District Meeting on November 2 nd . I look forward to seeing everyone to begin our new journey together! My first official act as SW District President, found me visiting Wise, VA by attending Town and Country Garden Club’s April meeting/luncheon at The Inn of Wise. It was a pleasure and honor to preside over the officer installation ceremony for the 2019- 2021 term. It was the perfect opportunity to chat with the lovely club members and to see their beautiful floral designs and horticulture display. On April 27, 2019, I returned to the charming town of Wise, to attend the NGC Standard Flower show, “Spring in Our Mountains,” organized by Green Thumb GC, Dogwood GC, and Town and Country GC. What amazing floral designs and horticulture on exhibit at the Charles W. Harris Art Gallery! And what a great excuse to visit with fellow SW District members. My theme of “Just Winging It ~ Soaring to New Heights in Gardening” combines two important areas, that we as gardeners, can make a POSITIVE impact on our community and environment through gardening projects and public education. “Just Winging It” focuses on all things with wings. Besides the variety of bees, beautiful birds and butterflies that surround us every day, there are other insects, “bugs,” and “night creatures,” such as bats, (Yes, BATS!) that contribute to our healthy habitats. “Soaring to New Heights in Gardening” emphasizes the various community projects and public education programs we as CUSTODIANS of our planet, can implement to both literally and figuratively make our world “GREENER.” My goals for this two-year term will incorporate these concepts as well as focusing on means to 1
Transcript of virginiagardenclubs.orgvirginiagardenclubs.org/southwest/TheMountainLaurel-fall… · Web...
THE MOUNTAIN LAUREL
Fall 2019 Southwest District VFGC, Inc.
“Just Winging It ~ Soaring to New Heights in Gardening”
SW District President, Lizzie Mann Greetings Southwest District Members:
“Welcome Back!” I hope everyone had a wonderful Summer, and is ready to regroup as a district at the Fall District Meeting on November 2nd. I look forward to seeing everyone to begin our new journey together!
My first official act as SW District President, found me visiting Wise, VA by attending Town and Country Garden Club’s April meeting/luncheon at The Inn of Wise. It was a pleasure and honor to preside over the officer installation ceremony for the 2019-2021 term. It was the perfect opportunity to chat with the lovely club members and to see their beautiful floral designs and horticulture display.
On April 27, 2019, I returned to the charming town of Wise, to attend the NGC Standard Flower show, “Spring in Our Mountains,” organized by Green Thumb GC, Dogwood GC, and Town and Country GC. What amazing floral designs and horticulture on exhibit at the Charles W. Harris Art Gallery! And what a great excuse to visit with fellow SW District members.
My theme of “Just Winging It ~ Soaring to New Heights in Gardening” combines two important areas, that we as gardeners, can make a POSITIVE impact on our community and environment through gardening projects and public education.
“Just Winging It” focuses on all things with wings. Besides the variety of bees, beautiful birds and butterflies that surround us every day, there are other insects, “bugs,” and “night creatures,” such as
bats, (Yes, BATS!) that contribute to our healthy habitats.
“Soaring to New Heights in Gardening” emphasizes the various community projects and public education programs we as CUSTODIANS of our planet, can implement to both literally and figuratively make our world “GREENER.”
My goals for this two-year term will incorporate these concepts as well as focusing on means to increase membership, on both the Club and District levels.
1. Addition of fifteen (15) New Members on the Club Level
2. Increase District Meeting Attendance to 503. Addition of two (2) New Youth Garden
Clubs in the District4. Visit with each District Garden Club at a
Club Meeting or event5. Continuation of the addition of Monarch
Waystations/Pollinator Gardens6. Educational Programs on Birds, Bees,
Butterflies, and “ALL THINGS WINGED”7. Emphasize Litter/Recycling Programs 8. Educate and Emphasize the Use of
REUSABLE Products
I realize I have set the bar high, but I strongly believe that we as fellow GARDENERS and CUSTODIANS, share these goals, and we can strive to achieve them. Many of you may already have incorporated some of these ideas within your own clubs/community, so I ask for your support in inspiring and educating others in our own SW District! And I hope that each club will support and incorporate these goals. It starts with one individual and then continues to grow! Can you imagine the impact we can have as a GROUP?
So please join me in leading others by example through our gardening projects and educational programs (i.e. Junior Gardening Clubs) to make OUR WORLD a “GREENER” and better place.
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I look forward to seeing you at the Fall District Meeting, and I challenge each of you to bring at least one friend/club member to this meeting! I am excited about beginning our two-year journey together to “Just Winging It ~ Soaring to New Heights in Gardening!”
“ONE PERSON CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE, AND EVERYONE SHOULD TRY.
John F. Kennedy
Asters with Monarch butterflies at Renée Johnson’s house in Tazewell, VA
Thinking of Our FriendsSubmitted by Ethel Daniels, Corresponding Secretary
Sympathy was sent to Susan and David Patrick (death of mother), Claudia Cosby (death of son), Delores Smith (death of brother), Pat Smith (death of son-in-law), Elene Combs (death of son).
Get Well/Thinking of You cards have been sent to Poofie Stump, Cynthia Herrell, and Betsy Edwards.
If you have news or concerns, please communicate them to Ethel Daniels, P.O. Box 476, Norton, VA 24273-1813; 276.679.3492; [email protected]
Upcoming Events: Mark your calendars! Southwest District Board Meetings, Abingdon,
VA:o Fall 2019 Board Meeting, September 19,
2019
o Spring 2020 Board Meeting, March 19, 2020
o Fall 2020 Board Meeting, September 17, 2020
o Spring 2021 Board Meeting, March 11, 2021
Southwest District Member Meetings, Abingdon, VA:
o Fall 2019 Meeting, November 2, 2019. See the call letter at the end of this newsletter.
o Spring 2019 Meeting, April 25, 2020o Fall 2020 Meeting, October 17, 2020o Spring 2021 Meeting, April 10, 2021
VFGC Landscape Design School, Course II, Series XXVIII, September 30-October 1, 2019, Richmond, VA
VFGC Symposium, November 6-7, 2019, Henrico, VA
SAR Convention, March 19-20, 2020, Greenville, SC
VFGC 2020 Convention, March 29-31, 2020, Roanoke, VA
Important Websites
NGC: http://gardenclub.org/VFGC: http://www.virginiagardenclubs.org/VFGC/Home.htmlPlease note: These website are password protected for the member and board sections. Your club president will be given the user names and passwords for members. The VFGC website is currently being updated, so the password-protected sections are not available. Please be patient!
Southwest District VFGC Fall Meeting, submitted by Liz Lester, Program Chairman
“UP TO SNUFF”
Don’t miss the November 2, 2019 program at the Fall Southwest District meeting!
BE ENLIGHTENEDBE INSPIREDBE ENTICED
Our presenter, whose club members consider her their “Wikipedia,” is a former Southwest District
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President. She has been a club president and is a Master Emeritus Flower Show School Judge, and a National Garden Club Master Accredited Landscape Design Consultant, to name only a few of her many credentials.
The second session also in coordination with our Southwest District President’s theme, “Just Winging It: Soaring to New Heights In Gardening” will be conducted by another very accomplished garden club member. Each person attending the Fall SWD Meeting will fold paper to make an origami object depicting the “Twelve Days ofChristmas”.
What better way to prepare for the winter season than with “UP TO SNUFF” and the TWELVE DAYS OF CHRISTMAS!
See you there!
Awards
VFGC has made some revisions to the awards list for the 2019-2021 term. The full list is available in the new VFGC Yearbook, and also on the website. Please consider applying for awards to showcase your club’s projects. A list of award winners for 2018-2019 is given later in this newsletter. This list might also give you ideas about which of your club projects might qualify for an award.
National President’s Project
Plant AmericaSWD Chairman Renée Johnson
The Plant America theme for President Gay Austin’s administration emphasizes the cornerstone elements of gardening: the variety of garden types; the elements required for healthy, sustainable gardens; an awareness of environmental issues; and resources to provide needed funds to put garden plans into action. This theme is chosen to help NGC members and the public return to the "roots" of why most members join garden clubs - to learn about gardening!
Under this program grants are available for direct expenses of projects. Up to $1,000.00 is available. Individual garden clubs that are members of National Garden Clubs, Inc., and did not receive a grant in 2017 or 2018 are eligible. The deadline application is October 15, 2019. Recipients of grants will be notified, and all money will be awarded by January 31, 2020. Projects must be completed by February 28, 2021, and final report forms are due by April 1, 2021. Send the completed application form and budget to: [email protected].
Program Criteria:
In evaluating grant applications, priority will be given to projects that emphasize one or more of these elements:
Benefits to the community Involvement and participation by club
members Project visibility/location of the project Clearly stated plan for future maintenance
and/or monitoring of the project
Projects must be completed by February 28, 2020, and final report forms are due by April 1, 2020. Please submit the following:
A short one-page report describing the project including photos
A copy of the final financial report including all income and expenses
A copy of any publicity
Southwest District Beautification Grant
Consider applying for a special Southwest District grant. Up to $1000 is granted each year for district beautification projects. More information will be available from the committee: Betty Griffitts, Catheryn Sturgeon, Martha Wells.
Smokey Bear/Woodsy Owl Poster Contest
Please promote this joint Department of Agriculture Forest Service and National Garden Clubs contest with children in your area. This is a great way for local children (in grades 1 through 5) to learn about fire safety and environmental conservation. Think
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about groups that might be interested: library and other after-school programs, scouts, church groups, school art classes. Maybe you can also arrange with your forester to have Smokey Bear visit the group.
Posters are due to our District chairman by 12/20/19.
Club presidents will receive an information packet to share with club members; you may also find more information on the NGC website, in the Youth section, or contact Jane Sorensen, [email protected], 276-988-4608.
Last year only one club sponsored children for this contest. Here are the club and District first place winners for 3rd and 4th grade students at Main Street School in Tazewell, sponsored by Seasons IV Garden Club.
Birds, submitted by Lizzie Mann
SAVE THE DATE: The next Great Backyard Bird Count is February 14-17, 2020The Great Backyard Bird Count (GBBC) is an easy event for bird watchers of all ages. It is agreat family activity to learn about the local birds in your area. I will have more information toshare at our district meeting on November 2, 2019. Until then check out the websitehttp://gbbc.birdcount.org to find out the results from this year’s bird count and identification tips.
FALL MIGRATION REST AREASFall is a great opportunity to see non-native bird species as they pass through your area. Justlike humans, migrating birds need REST AREAS too! They need a place to rest and refuelbefore continuing their travels. So be sure to keep fresh water, bird feeders stocked, and sugarwater out for all those passing through and ENJOY!Did you know that songbirds typically migrate at night? They do this to take advantage of thecooler and calmer air currents and to avoid migratory predatory birds. Birds such as hawks,ducks, and geese migrate during the day to take advantage of the warm wind currents forsoaring, which takes less energy. Insect eating birds, such as swifts and swallows (think purplemartins) also migrate during the day to take advantage of their active food source.
Keep the Bird Feeders Stocked in the WinterAs the weather cools down, and the winter months are upon us, I notice new visitors at my birdfeeders. The “Tufted Titmouse,” “Dark-eyed Juncos,” and chickadees, to name a few, arrive inNovember and hang out until Spring. They join our “regulars” - the Northern Cardinal, BlueJays, Mourning Doves, and variety of sparrows at the feeders. It is fascinating to see our“UNITED NATIONS” of birds gathering at the feeders right before a winter storm. Come onand join in the backyard fun!
Penny Pines, submitted by Brenda Davis, Chairman
During the past biennium, the Southwest District VFGC contributed monies to the Penny
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Pines initiative five times. Each contribution totaled $68 for a total of $340. Wow! Let’s continue to support this project by collecting change at both our district board and member meetings!
Penny Pines began as a project of the United States Forest Service in 1941. National Garden Clubs (NGC) entered into a conservation agreement with the Forest Service in the 1950s. Thus, the project became an on-going project of the NGC. This conservation project is meaningful because it provides funds for replanting replacement trees for the reforestation of burned-out, infested, or flooded-out areas. Each donation of $68 is called a “plantation” and provides for the planting of tree seedlings (300 seedlings). These trees are not just pine trees but are trees that are indigenous to a damaged area. These plantations provide soil protection, watershed protection, soil stabilization, future harvestable timber, as well as beauty and shade for recreation. In our case, the George Washington and Thomas Jefferson National Forests benefit from this project.
Save your change and bring to both the board and member meetings this fall. A container will be available for your donation. Let’s once again support this worth-while conservation effort!
Blue Star Memorial
Is your club considering a Blue Star Memorial marker in your area? Blue Star Memorial Highways are highways in the United States that are
marked to pay tribute to the U.S. armed forces. Donations can be made for the Blue Star Memorial Fund for the SW District by sending a contribution to our district treasurer at any time. Individuals and clubs are encouraged to do their part by considering this. You can get information on the VFGC website, www.virginiagardenclubs.org, or contact Brenda Davis [email protected] or 276-988-4446.
Southwest District Fundraising Activities
Country Store, Item Exchange: We encourage all clubs to bring interesting items to donate to our fundraising projects; plants, food, decorations, books, household items, etc. Come prepared to browse and take home great items.
Money from our fundraising activities goes toward our District Beautification grants and other district activities.
NGC Life MembershipNational Life Membership is a great way to honor someone your club feels has contributed to garden club ideals. Please remember half of the fee goes to the Permanent Home Endowment Fund and half goes to the Scholarship Fund. Life members will be a registered member recorded in National Headquarters and receive the National Gardener magazine and be eligible to attend the award banquet at the National Garden Club Convention.
The application form and additional information are available on the NGC website: http://gardenclub.org.
If you need assistance or information, please contact Patsy Stephens at 276-328-8290 or email at [email protected].
VFGC Life Membership and Book of HonorPlease consider recognizing your special club members or garden club associates with a VFGC Life Membership or Book of Honor entry. The donation (tax-deductible) for this membership goes to fund VFGC scholarships. The application is available on the VFGC website: http://www.virginiagardenclubs.org/VFGC/Life_Memberships.html
If you want more information, please contact Cynthia Herrell, 276-676-2805, [email protected].
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Southwest District Board, 2019-2021Executive Board
Position Name, address, phone, e-mailPresident Elizabeth “Lizzie” Mann
19376 Stirrup Dr.Abingdon, VA [email protected]
Director-Secretary Barbara Smith24038 Watauga RoadAbingdon, VA 24211-7100 [email protected]
Director-Treasurer Violet Neel4347 Clearfork RoadTazewell, VA [email protected]
Corresponding Secretary
Ethel DanielsP.O. Box 476Norton, VA [email protected]
Parliamentarian Anne Newton Dumper1125 Laurel Creek LaneBroadford, VA [email protected]
Chaplain Judy Hess201 Upper Poor Valley RoadSaltville, VA 24370-3135276.496.7210no e-mail
Historian Barbara Smith24038 Watauga RoadAbingdon, VA 242211-7100 [email protected]
Advisor, SW District Jane Harrold Sorensen2950 Witten Valley RoadTazewell, VA [email protected]
Registrar Cynthia Herrell19328 Stirrup Dr.Abingdon, VA [email protected]
Asst. Registrar Fran Wall1140 Rockwall Dr.Abingdon, VA [email protected] Committees
Country Store Betty Griffitts411 1st AvenueSaltville, VA 24370-3445276.496.4592No e-mail
Position Name, address, phone, e-mailCountry Store Shelly Jones
16041 Highfall RoadAbingdon, VA [email protected]
District Newsletter (The Mountain Laurel)
Jane Harrold Sorensen2950 Witten Valley RoadTazewell, VA [email protected]
SW District Community Grants
Betty Griffitts411 1st AvenueSaltville, VA 24370-3445276.496.4592No e-mail
SW District Community Grants
Catheryn Sturgeon490 N Court St, #11Abingdon, VA [email protected]
SW District Community Grants
Martha Wells7558 Wells-Adams RdNorton, VA [email protected] Standing Committees
Arboreta & Botanical Gardens
Mary Beth Allen103 West 1st. St. SouthBig Stone Gap, VA [email protected]
Awards Andrea Meador1842 Egan RoadBig Stone Gap, VA [email protected]
Birds Elizabeth “Lizzie” Mann19376 Stirrup Dr.Abingdon, VA [email protected]
Blue Star Memorial Brenda DavisP.O. Box 226Tazewell, VA [email protected]
Butterfly/Pollinator Education
Corann Kitchen27276 Alpine DriveAbingdon, VA [email protected]
Club Membership Elizabeth “Lizzie” Mann19376 Stirrup Dr.Abingdon, VA [email protected]
Community Gardening Bonnie WhiteP.O. Box 838Tazewell, VA [email protected]
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Position Name, address, phone, e-mailConservation/Environment Education/Concerns
Margaret CraftP.O. Box 1344Wise, VA [email protected]
Edible Gardens/ Organic Gardening/Vegetables/Herbs
Bonnie WhiteP.O. Box 838Tazewell, VA [email protected]
Flower Show Judges Council
Elene Combs237 Combs CourtTazewell, VA [email protected]
Flower Show Judges Credentials
Patricia “Pat” SmithP.O. Box GSaltville, VA [email protected]
Flower Show Judges Symposium
Margaret CraftP.O. Box1344Wise, VA [email protected]
Finance Patsy StephensP.O. Box 1157Wise, VA [email protected]
Flower Show School Margaret CraftP.O. Box1344Wise, VA [email protected]
Garden Therapy/Healing Gardens
Violet Neel4347 Clearfork RoadTazewell, VA [email protected]
Gardening School Jane Harrold Sorensen2950 Witten Valley RoadTazewell, VA [email protected]
Grants to Beautify and Restore
Elizabeth “Lizzie” Mann19376 Stirrup Dr.Abingdon, VA [email protected]
Historic Gardens Restoration
Fran Wall1140 Rockwall DriveAbingdon, VA [email protected]
Horticulture Jane Harrold Sorensen2950 Witten Valley RoadTazewell, VA [email protected]
Position Name, address, phone, e-mailImproved Cultivars Kim Santolla
581 Tower StreetTazewell, VA [email protected]
Landscape Design Consultants Council
Patricia “Pat” SmithP.O. Box GSaltville, VA [email protected]
Landscape Design School
Patricia “Pat” SmithP.O. Box GSaltville, VA [email protected]
Legislation Brenda LindseyP.O. Box 1424Hillsville, VA 24343-1424276.733.9368No e-mail
Life Membership: VFGC and VFGC Book of Honor
Cynthia Herrell19328 Stirrup Dr.Abingdon, VA [email protected]
Life Membership: NGC & SAR
Patsy StephensP.O. Box 1157Wise, VA [email protected]
Litter Prevention/ Recycling
Margaret CraftP.O. Box1344Wise, VA [email protected]
National Garden Week Elizabeth “Lizzie” Mann19376 Stirrup Dr.Abingdon, VA [email protected]
National President’s Project
Renee Johnson619 W. MainTazewell, VA [email protected]
Native Plants/Heritage Plants
Kim Santolla581 Tower StreetTazewell, VA [email protected]
Natural Disasters/World Gardening
Elizabeth “Lizzie” Mann19376 Stirrup Dr.Abingdon, VA [email protected]
Nominations, VFGC Patsy StephensP.O. Box 1157Wise, VA [email protected]
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Position Name, address, phone, e-mailNominations VFGC Alternate
Renee Johnson817 Main StreetTazewell, VA [email protected]
Organization Study/ Policy and Procedure
Elizabeth “Lizzie” Mann19376 Stirrup Dr.Abingdon, VA [email protected]
Penny Pines Brenda DavisP.O. Box 226Tazewell, VA 24651-0226276.988.4446davisduo7@ gmail.com
Personnel Elene Combs237 Combs CourtTazewell, VA [email protected]
Programs Liz Lester16020 McGee LaneMeadowview, VA [email protected]
Protocol Ellen GilmerP.O. Box 3309Lebanon, VA [email protected]
Protocol Dianne Loomis831 Birdie DriveAbingdon, VA [email protected]
Publications (Old Dominion Gardener)
Renee Johnson817 Main StreetTazewell, VA [email protected]
SAR Projects Phyllis WilliamsP.O. Box 674Wise, VA [email protected]
Scholarships: VFGC, SAR, NGC
Elizabeth “Lizzie” Mann19376 Stirrup Dr.Abingdon, VA [email protected]
Smokey Bear/Woodsy Owl Posters
Jane Harrold Sorensen2950 Witten Valley RoadTazewell, VA [email protected]
The National Gardener
Brenda DavisP.O. Box 226Tazewell, VA [email protected]
Position Name, address, phone, e-mailVFGC Yearbook Sponsors
Brenda DavisP.O. Box 226Tazewell, VA [email protected]
Virginia Wildflower Program/Roadside Beautification
Andrea Overbay13279 Friendship Rd.Chilhowie, VA [email protected]
Youth Project Grants Sandy YunP.O. Box 2620Wise, VA [email protected]
Youth School Activities/Scouts
Sandy YunP.O. Box 2620Wise, VA [email protected]
Southwest District Club Presidents, 2019-2021Name of
ClubPresident’s Name, Address, E-mail
and PhoneAbingdon Cynthia Herrell
19328 Stirrup DriveAbingdon, VA 24211-6766276.676.2805 [email protected]
Chilhowie Gwen Beattie, President525 W Lee HwyChilhowie, VA 24319-4666276.646.5512 (H)571.214.0942 (C)[email protected]
Dogwood Andrea Meador1842 Egan RoadBig Stone Gap, VA [email protected]
Four Seasons
Nyoka CookP. O. Box 896Saltville, VA [email protected]
Galax Bonnie LeGrand, President104 Magnolia CourtGalax, VA 24333-4120276.236.0820 (H)276.238.7680 (C)[email protected]
Green Thumb
Carol Moore5412 Wedgewood DriveBig Stone Gap, VA 24219-4140276.523.4847 (H)276.708.4847 (C)[email protected]
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Name of Club
President’s Name, Address, E-mail and Phone
Intermont Karen Hall1302 Woodland Dr.Big Stone Gap, VA [email protected]
Lee County
Lois Appleby306 Old Bailey DrEwing, VA [email protected]
Richlands Judith Edgell206 Terry DriveRichlands, VA [email protected]
Seasons IV
Elene Combs237 Combs CourtTazewell, VA [email protected]
Town & Country
Sandy YunPO Box 2620Wise, VA [email protected]
Virginia Norma Hedrick206 Forest Hill Dr.Bluefield, VA 24605-9442276.322.4840regular mail only
Southwest District VFGC Blue Ribbon Member
Every club now has an opportunity to show appreciation to their members who have served at the district level. The district would like to acknowledge members for outstanding service, dedication, and loyalty. That’s a blue ribbon member!
Eligibility: Any member of the SW District VFGC who has served on the board for three terms (six years)
Rules: Submit an application, due by the SW
District Spring Board Meeting, to the Blue Ribbon Committee. The Blue Ribbon Committee will be appointed by the current SW District president and comprised of past SW District presidents.
A written narrative of the member’s district contributions must be included with the application.
Deadline Date: SW District Spring Board Meeting
Awards: The Blue Ribbon Member will be presented at the SW District Spring Meeting.
ScholarshipsDoes your club know a local college student who might qualify for a VFGC scholarship? Theapplicant must be a full-time student, majoring in Agriculture Education, Horticulture, Floriculture, Landscape Design, Botany, Plant Pathology/Science, Forestry, Agronomy, Environmental Concerns, Environmental Conservation, Habitat or Forest/Systems Ecology, Land Management and/or other garden-related or allied subjects. Career goals must demonstrate objectives that are garden-related. The applicant must be a resident of Virginia and must be enrolled at an accredited college or university. More information is available on the VFGC website, or you may contact Lizzie Mann, [email protected].
Therapy/Healing Gardens
If any club is interested in Garden Therapy/Healing projects, Violet Neel has purchased the Garden Therapy Manual, that she is willing to share.
Remember, you can apply for an award for outstanding projects. Refer to your VFGC yearbook on page 68 (S-31, S-32), page 77 for SAR awards (No. 6 & 7) and page 87 for NGC awards Gardening/Therapy Gardens. If you do not have a yearbook, Violet will be happy to copy and send the information to you.
Please contact Violet if you want more information: Violet Neel, 276-988-7473, [email protected].
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Horticulture Submitted by Jane Harrold Sorensen, Horticulture Chairman
This is a good time of year to harvest, replant, and clean up. Here are a few things to consider doing in the following months.September: Sow spinach, lettuce, other greens Begin 14 hours of dark for poinsettias to
encourage “blooms”October: Dig and store glads, dahlias, cannas, callas,
tuberous begonias Divide perennials Harvest pumpkins, squash, potatoes before frost Plant garlicNovember: Remove diseased plant material from garden Fertilize house plants
Please let me know if you have specific horticulture questions or issues you would like covered in upcoming newsletters. [email protected], 276-988-4608
NEWS FROM OUR CLUBS
Abingdon Garden Club, submitted by Barbara Smith
The Abingdon Garden Club has had a busy spring and summer. New officers were installed at the spring
luncheon and the club is looking forward to the next two years with their new president Cynthia Herrell.
The club hosted its 20th annual Garden Tour in May with eight gardens being featured. The gardens this year were quite varied, ranging from a formal one with urns, espaliered trees, and fountains to a senior cohousing community where residents share responsibility for a vegetable garden that provides food for their common meals.
The club’s new website was activated before the tour and the club now can be reached at abingdongardenclubva.wordpress.com (e-mail [email protected].)
The first week of June was filled with National Garden week activities. The week opened with the placement of a display in the public library titled “Birds, Bees, and Butterflies”, which was geared toward teaching children about gardening for our winged friends, and the appearance of club members at the town council meeting where they received remarks and a proclamation recognizing the week. On Tuesday club members traveled to Blacksburg to tour the Elissa Steeves garden (featured in Southern Living) and the Smithfield Plantation. Other activities during the week included working with residents of an assisted living center to create flower arrangements, presenting a “Saved Seed” program to children and parents, working with the Washington County Master Gardeners in a “plant together” project, and the presentation of a butterfly program at the Russell County “Bees, Blooms, Bluegrass” festival by club member Corann Kitchen.
Pictured are club members at the county library with their “Birds, Bees, and Butterflies” display. July was filled with ongoing projects: club
members maintain the Shakespearean garden at the William King Fine Arts Center, the gardens and butterfly way station at Eberhardt Park, the “plant it pink” urn at the entrance of a regional cancer center, and the landscape around the Blue Star Memorial at Veteran’s Park. The month was capped by the club’s annual “potluck “picnic.
The club started a new project in August, replanting a flower bed at the Jubilee House Retreat Center.
Club meeting programs have included “The Life Cycle of a Monarch Butterfly” and “Hummingbirds.”
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Chilhowie Garden Club, submitted by Gwen Beattie
Updates from the Chilhowie Garden Club:
In April, the Club prepared their various flower beds around Chilhowie for the spring and summer.
The club began a Yard of the Month program this spring, recognizing town residents who have outstanding yards.
Planning is underway for the annual Flower Show, which will take place Sept 27-29, in conjunction with the annual Chilhowie Apple Festival.
The club added 4 new members this year and reactivated one who was inactive.
Dogwood Garden Club, submitted by Andrea Meador
Dogwood Garden Club has been busy. April 6. Fund Raiser- Early Bird Brunch-
Members and guests enjoyed a brunch and then an auction of items (garden, homemade food items, etc.) enjoyed by all attending
April 13, Memorial Planting and reception at Southwest Virginia Museum for Ida Triginia. All of the Triginia female children, along with some grandchildren, attended and helped plant dogwood trees in the 101Train Car Native Plant and Pollinator Garden (joint project with Green Thumb of Norton). Afterwards everyone attending the dedication enjoyed a reception at the
Southwest Virginia Museum Victorian Parlor.
April 27, Joint Flower Show in Wise, VA- Dogwood, Green Thumb and Town and Country Garden Clubs.
Dogwood club members planted 7 planters at SWVA Museum on their Celebration of Spring Event.
May 2, planted 2 dogwood trees at Union High School in memory of Jimabe Fleenor, with some of his past students along with Bill Cawood, biology teacher.
May 10, created the flower arrangements for MECC graduation.
May 30, display table about National Garden Week at Bascom Slemp Library in BSG and donated 2 books to library: " We Are Gardeners".
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Honoring National Garden Week, Dogwood members and Green Thumb members planted more dogwood trees at Native Plant and Pollinator Garden SWVA Museum in BSG.
June 25, updated garden at June Tolliver Playhouse home to Trail of the Lonesome Pine Outdoor Drama.
July 5, Green Thumb and Dogwood Garden Club members joined forces with Virginia Youth Conservation Corps (YCC) to plant rhododendrons, zinnias, milkweed and other native plants in the Native Plant and Pollinator Garden at SWVA Museum.
August 10-11, Dogwood Garden Club hosted a Flower Show Exhibit -" Bees, Birds
and Butterflies" at SWVA Museum, Big Stone Gap
August 19, held the annual garden club picnic, at the home of Dr Jim and Ruth Ann Price.
Four Seasons Garden Club, submitted by Toby Cook The Four Seasons Garden Club met on April
9th, 2019 for their annual planning meeting. Members shared ideas for upcoming meetings such as hostess assignments, program plans and design themes.
The annual awards banquet was held at the River Front Restaurant in Chilhowie, VA, 5/14/19, at which time the 2019-2021 Officers were installed. Patricia Smith, a founding member of the club and past president of Southwest Virginia District Garden Club was the installation officer.
The June meeting was held at the Saltville Rescue Squad with the theme of Flag Day. Hostesses, Shirley Ballou, Nyoka Cook, Toby Cook and Judy Hess prepared tables in patriotic colors and in recognition of Flag Day. Anne Dumper presented a very informative program, “Standing on the Flag”.
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In July, the Four Seasons Garden Club worked with other organizations in Saltville to plant flowers at the Veterans Wall. Beautiful red, white and blue flowers were planted near the wall and in the Triangle area.
August began with a bang for the Four Seasons members as five members of the club were actively involved in the Rich Valley Fair Flower Show. Judy Hess, past president of Four Seasons, is the chairperson for the flower show committee. Nyoka Cook and Toby Cook assisted on this committee. Pat Smith and Carol Chapman were involved in the judging of the beautiful exhibits.Judy Hess received the trophy for the Most Outstanding Floral design in the show and received the trophy, The Elizabeth Frye Memorial Award, given in honor of her Mother.
Galax Garden Club, submitted by Joy Murray
In June the club toured the Kyle garden.
Kyle Garden Tour, June 2019 At the September meeting club members
learned about more deer proof plants
Green Thumb Garden Club, submitted by Carol Moore
For several years, the Green Thumb Garden Club has given away flowers for Senior Day at the Best Friends Festival in Norton, Virginia. This year, they grew red zinnia plants from seed at the Norton Elementary and Middle School greenhouse with gardening assistance
from third grade students. 150 zinnias were distributed during Senior Day this year!
Members of Green Thumb Garden Club On Friday, July 5, at the 101 Train Car at the
Southwest Virginia Museum and Historical State Park in Big Stone Gap, the members of Green Thumb and Dogwood Garden Clubs began planting the native plant and pollinator garden with the YCC, using Ames Tools, which the Green Thumb Garden club received from a National Garden Club Ames Tools grant. Plants included milkweed and zinnias grown by students and garden club members in the Norton Elementary and Middle School greenhouse, as well as native plants purchased with grant funding through the YCC and Virginia Federation of Garden Clubs. The museum has a part time gardener, Lee Cobb, who designed the garden with input from both Green Thumb and Dogwood Garden Clubs.The Virginia State Parks Youth Conservation Corps (YCC) program engages young people in a structured program of important conservation and park projects on public lands, while providing learning that fosters teamwork, self-esteem, social responsibility and respect for the environment.
If you can plant only one annual, plant a red zinnia for the pollinators.
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Park Director, Aaron Davis with Dogwood and Green Thumb Garden Club members and park gardener Lee Cobb
YCC
Lee County Garden Club, submitted by Lois Appleby
Lee County Garden Club of Jonesville, Virginia, planted flowers in 20 pots in and around Jonesville town in early spring.
In May they had a plant sale for Cancer Drive. They weeded at the welcome signs at each end
of town and maintained the 20 pots. They checked in all the flowers to be on exhibit
at the Lee County Fair.
Club members with the ribbons they won
Richlands Garden Club, submitted by Judy Edgell
Richlands Garden Club reinstated their Beautification Award
They had their annual tea party, and a hat party.
They held an informal flower show in conjunction with Historic Section House Committee and Town of Richlands Summerfest.
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They also planted 53 hanging baskets. 15 pots and 4 beds.
Seasons IV Garden Club, submitted by Jane Sorensen
The club has been busy since the last newsletter. Meeting programs included: cross pollination,
aquaponics, Earth Day, an indoor picnic, Appalachian food dinner and tour of Crab Apple Museum’s exhibit on local food
Club members worked on their many projects: planted whopper begonias at the Tazewell County Court House; planted a variety of annuals at Chapman House; weeded and pruned at the Court House, Post Office, traffic triangle, fairground; helped with the horticulture exhibit at the Tazewell County Fair
Seasons IV and Methodist Church members at Chapman Hall
The club had a Small Standard Flower Show, as part of Tazewell’s Main Street Moments, 7/27/19; “What Does Your Garden Grow?”
Joan Flynn’s first place design
Jody Hazelwood, double winner at the flower show
Club members worked with children in the gardens at Tazewell County Public Library in Tazewell and Bluefield
Many club members enjoyed a trip to Biltmore house, with a private tour of the gardens, a delightful lunch, and a fun bus ride
The club added 2 new members since June 2019 And new club officers for 2019-2021 were
installed: Elene Combs, president; Jody Hazelwood, vice president; Idana Hamilton, secretary; Violet Neel, treasurer
Town and Country Garden Club, submitted by Sandy Yun and Patsy Stephens
Town and Country Garden Club members worked with the Kiwanis Club, UVA college and community members, and the club’s Junior
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Garden Club to refurbish the Butterfly Gardens at Wise County Christian School Wise, VA.
The club thanks Southwest District VFGC for the beautification grant received last spring.
Six members from the club (Martha Blackburn, Teresa Atkins, Henrietta Dotson, Margaret Craft, Nancy Culbertson, and Sandy Yun) were chosen by the University of Virginia’s College at Wise “Develop Department “ to be an advisory committee for landscaping a memorial
garden honoring one of their members, Merry Lu Prior, the wife of a former Chancellor of the College. Merry was a very active club member and contributed greatly to many of the club’s projects. She loved young people and was a catalyst in forming and supporting the club’s Jr. Garden Club.
The Prior Family and on far right the Chancellor of UVA Wise Dr Henry at the Dedication for the Memorial Garden in honor of Merry Lu Prior
Members planted pollinator container gardens at the Wise County Regional Library.
Virginia Garden Club, submitted by Norma Hedrick
The club planted around their Blue Star Memorial marker, using plants purchased at Kimberly’s Greenhouse.
They also did a plant project with children at Dudley School for Mother’s Day
Awards Recipients for 2019, submitted by Toby Cook
Southwest District VFGC Club AwardsThe following clubs received $20 for First Place District Award
S-16 (sm), Organic Gardening Practices: Seasons IV
S-18 (sm), Water: Seasons IV
S-24 (sm), Civic Beautification: Seasons IV
S-24 (med), Civic Beautification: Town & Country
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S-28 (med), Plant Together Comm. Garden: Abingdon
S-28 (sm), Plant Together Comm. Garden: Seasons IV
S-34 (med), National Garden Week: Abingdon
S-35 (med), Special Achievement: Town & Country
S-35 (sm), Special Achievement: Seasons IV
S-36 (sm), Vision of Beauty Calendar Sales: Four Seasons
S-38 (med), Youth Env. Education: Town & Country
S-39 (med), Youth Horticulture Education: Town & Country
S-39 (sm), Youth Horticulture Education: Seasons IV
S-40 (med), “The Saved Seed” Education: Town & Country
S-41 (med), Pollinator Gardens With Youth: Town & Country
S-44 (3), 30-44, Club Yearbooks: Town & Country
S-44 (4), 45-69, Club Yearbooks: Abingdon
S-45 (sm), Flower Show Schedule: Fincastle/Seasons IV
S-45, (Dist.), Flower Show Schedule: Southwest District
The following Six awards were not in a District category but were sent on to VFGC for judging.
Blue Star Memorial Landscaping: Town & Country Historic Preservation: Town & Country Decoration of Historic Building: Town & Country Horticulture Therapy: AbingdonArbor Day Tree Planting: Town & CountryPrograms—Power Point: Town & Country
Second Place Awards for Southwest—Certificate only
Civic Beautification/Civic Achievement: Dogwood Together Community Garden: Dogwood National Garden Week: Town & CountryEnvironmental Education: Abingdon VFGC and SAR awards for Southwest District clubs are listed in the Summer 2019 Old Dominion Gardener.
NGC Awards for Southwest District Clubs
Town & Country Garden Club of Wise: Award MP-4 (aii)(6) Video/CD/DVD/Flash Drive - 1st Place
Town & Country Garden Club of Wise: Award L-3 (aiii) Blue Star Memorial Marker (Other) – 1st Place
Abingdon Garden Club: Award MP-2(aii) National Garden Week – 1st Place
Seasons IV Garden Club: Award E-6(ai) Water – 1st place
Seasons IV Garden Club: Award CS-2(ai) Kellogg Civic Achievement – 1st Place
Green Thumb Garden Club: Ames Tools Grant
Newsletter
Thank you to everyone who sent information for this newsletter. I hope this means that each issue will be filled with interesting information from all the clubs and committee chairmen. You can make that happen for the next issue by sending brief articles and pictures. We won’t know what great things your club or committee does if you don’t tell us.
Mountain Laurel
Please send news to Jane Sorensen, [email protected], or 2950 Witten Valley Road, Tazewell, VA 24651, by 3/1/20. You may submit a full article or bullet points highlighting your activities.
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VFGC SOUTHWEST DISTRICT FALL MEETINGNOVEMBER 2, 2019
TO: All Southwest District VFGC Members and Guests
WHEN: Saturday, November 2, 2019Registration and coffee – 9:30 a.m.Business meeting – 10:00 a.m.
WHERE: Southwest 4-H Educational Center25236 Hillman Hwy, Abingdon, VA 24210Main Office Phone: 276.676.6180
Meeting location: The Lodge (follow signs)
COST: $18.00 – Make check payable to Southwest District VFGC with memo Fall 2019 District Meeting
Send to: Cynthia Herrell19328 Stirrup DriveAbingdon, VA 24211-6766
Deadline: October 23, 2019Please note deadline for registering! Be MINDFUL & COURTEOUS!
Headcount is required so the 4-H Center can plan accordingly; our registrar needs to make name tags, and officers/chairs need to prepare copies of reports and notices for each attendee.
PROGRAMS: “Up to Snuff” - Preparing a garden winter habitat for your feathered friends.
“12 Days of Christmas” - Unique birding crafts for Christmas giving.
PLUS: The Items Exchange: Look for interesting treats and gifts to purchase, and donate items to add to the inventory of items (i.e., plants, food, garden/home items, books, etc.)
Directions to the 4-H Center (1.5 miles north of Abingdon)
From the North via I-81: Take Interstate 81 South. Take exit 22 (Enterprise Road). Turn right at the end of the exit ramp. Drive until you arrive at a stop sign and turn left onto Hillman Highway. The 4-H Center is approximately 1.5 miles on the left.
From the South via I-81: From Exit 19 on I-81, travel south on US Route 11 for approximately ½ mile. Turn right on State Route 609 (Hillman Highway). Look for the blue 4-H Center sign at the intersection. Follow Route 609 for approximately 1.5 miles to the 4-H Center entrance on the right.
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From Highway 19: Take 19 to Main Street (Abingdon, US Route 11). Stay on US Route 11 for almost 2 miles. Turn left on Hillman Highway. Go approximately 1.5 miles. The 4-H Center will be on the right.
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