Non-Residential Beautification Award--Ackerman Cancer Center

During Mary Clark and Mary Forester's research on outdoor lighting for the garden club, an electrician recommended that they make a night visit to see what type of lighting the Ackerman oncology facility had installed.  It is located next to Walmart on San Jose Blvd.  

While there, they noticed the landscaping of the building which serves cancer patients.  The simplified and minimal landscaping created a peaceful and calming effect on our members.  They felt this was intentional for the patients attending the office during a trying time in their lives.  Hopefully the use of the rocks, the colors of the building, and the plantings set a tone of restfulness in a world of unknowns with the patients and staff utilizing this facility.

 We wanted to honor not only the beautification of this Mandarin building but also their respect for the patients by creating a world of beauty for them. If that much attention to detail is evident on the outside of a medical building, the attention to detail on the inside for their patients must be outstanding.                                          

--Fredi Olson and Mary Forester

Cherokee Rose Goes to the Zoo

The Cherokee Rose Circle Members had the opportunity to enjoy a Garden Tour of the Jacksonville Zoo in May.  We were surprised at the remarkable accomplishment of what only 12 people can do to maintain over 90 acres of gardens with a small budget for plants.

Our 90 minute tour took us down the River of  Color, through the lush Savanna Blooms Garden, and concluded in the Trout River Gardens.  We also enjoyed many animals along the way.

  

Lunch at the Palm Cafe with one of the tour guides allowed for personal time to learn more of the many accomplishments of those tending to the garden.  Our lunch ended with a beautiful Jaguar sitting next to the window for our pleasure and view.

The new 36 member flock of African Greater Flamingos arrived one day before our visit.  We included this photo for your view.  You can also visit the website of the Jacksonville zoo for a peek,  jacksonvillezoo.org  or Facebook.

Please visit the website of the Jacksonville Zoo and possibly enjoy a day there over the summer with your family and friends. 

Cherokee Rose Starts Off Year with a Field Trip

Cherokee Rose Circle began its new year in June with a special home visit to Jeanne and Gale Hendricks.  “A beautiful Mandarin Home Where Butterflies Play.”

BUTTERFLIES:  The morning began with viewing of a Monarch butterfly which had emerged from its cocoon which was released as we began our tour.  One bit of advice we received from Jeanne our Butterfly Expert, “When you think you have enough Milkweed--Plant More.”

GARDEN DESIGN:  Jeanne inspired us with creating an ideal peaceful outdoor retreat.  It was not just about choosing attractive flowers and plants, but creating a serene landscape where you can commune with nature.  One might best describe her back yard as an outdoor space which has been turned into a relaxing haven.

 

GREENHOUSE:  The Hendricks built an incredible Greenhouse mostly from Craig's List and re-purposed/hand-made items which included a cat door.  

GARAGE/MUSEUM:  Jeanne’s talented husband, Gale built his garage/museum last year with lots of fun things to view including automotive collectibles, an antique barber chair, race cars and collector cars.  One project we saw was an antique truck on blocks with a custom-made engine waiting to be installed.

MANDARIN GARDEN CLUB - JUNE YARD OF THE MONTH:  Cherokee Rose congratulates the Hendricks for an eye-catching serene backyard.