Nine Deer Removed From Gardens

The day started out with some snow and we received about 2" of the light stuff. The weather didn't deter a dedicated group of Grumpies from coming in to work both inside and out. The "removed deer" can be seen above although evidence of real deer out in the gardens is painfully

apparent but not as concentrated as we've seen in past years. We hope this bodes well for minimal browsing around the gardens. Marv, Terry, Dick H. and Pat went out in the gardens to bring back Holiday Lights Show displays, cords and lights while Larry and Bill did some of the same later in the day. We had another great painting crew of Dr. Gredler, Rose, Urban and Del working on obelisks and Adirondack chairs (see bottom photo). Vern, Bob, Dave and Jim started their new, "top secret" project that is shaping up nicely. I'll probably spill the beans regarding these garden elements but am tight lipped at this point. Janice, Jenny M. and I met regarding our upcoming spring symposium (check it out at www.rotarybotanicalgardens.org). Marianne was in to get handouts prepared for the looming Wisconsin Public Television Garden Expo (Feb. 11, 12, 13). We saw many others trickle in including Little Jerry who was the guest of honor at his retirement party. Held over at the Parker Education Center, we had 33 attendees come to recognize Jerry's monumental efforts in the gardens over the past decade as both a volunteer and grounds staff member. Everyone had a great time and it was a wonderful lunch with items brought by participants but the set-up by Polly, Lori and Joy was most appreciated as well. I did a little presentation with images of Jerry thru the years out in the gardens and didn't hesistate to "roast" him as well. Below is Karen M., Little Jerry and Larry. Note the picture above and to the right. Jerry, Larry and Marv are never shy about hitting any buffet fast and furious. My talk for the Milton Garden Guild (at Milton H.S.) last night went well and I think I had about 30 people or so. I spoke on annuals and it was a great crowd with plenty of questions. I've been bouncing between education duties and seed ordering all day and hopefully will make more progress tomorrow with ordering. Looming presentations in early February will slow me down so I like to have most of my spring preparations done prior to that maelstrom.