It Takes a Village…Or Is That a Hive? The First Day of the 2025 Master Gardener Class

Photos by Sandy O’Neill

The 2025 New Master Gardener Class Luncheon and Orientation was such a success due to the contributions of many people who performed a myriad of activities in a short period of time. There was so much activity, it felt like a bee hive.

Two days prior to the event, Food4Less once again discounted the cost of food and supported us, as good neighbors do. Their staff sorted, bagged and loaded enough food for 70 people into my car, and I ferried it to the Extension.

The SOREC kitchen was undergoing a deep cleaning and unavailable for our use. So, we “farmed out” food to other venues for preparation — the kitchens of our resourceful volunteers. One person made salads; four baked regular and sweet potatoes; others made chili; etc.

Our volunteers also contributed roasters and crockpots to keep food warm — some items reminded us of the heaters used by our mothers and grandmothers. The small classroom was set up with so many varied foods that it looked like a Norman Rockwell Thanksgiving painting. Three cobblers — peach, apple and berry — were crowd pleasers and had a place of honor at the tables

By noon, all were seated in the auditorium. There is nothing better than enjoying yummy, healthy food, making new friends, and engaging in great conversations in anticipation of a new adventure in lifelong learning.

After our feast, Grace practiced her magic, as new students were welcomed to the 2025 Master Gardener class. Then we jumped right into the botany lecture. Plant samples were placed on each table and students invited to identify the samples. As a Bud (mentor), it is gratifying to watch budding botanists. They think they understand, until they must scrutinize a plant’s structures in detail. You can hear the awe and excitement as new students decipher botanical intricacies

In addition, groups of 5 new students were tasked with creating a 10- to 15-minute presentation about one plant family. As in prior years, this day’s were amazing presentations. I expected nothing less from this very skilled new class.

The day was a joyful and energizing event. If the first day is indicative of the future, we are all in for a wonderful journey.

There are many people to thank for the success of this kick-off event, starting with all the Master Gardeners who prepared the space and cooked delicious and healthy food at home.

We owe a huge thank you to all the Master Gardeners who take on several roles during the 14-week class, such as the Buds who help with the in-person classes, the practicum mentors and even some SOREC staff.

Jane Moyer, who has poured her soul into creating and leading the Practicum over many years, is stepping into a consulting role this year. She will continue to help JCMGA grow, thrive and be a positive presence in Jackson County. Thank you!

Thank you to Barbara Low and Nicole Smith, who stepped in to fill big shoes as co-Chairs of Practicum – the first year of their leadership. Thank you to all the Master Gardeners who are Practicum Mentors and Garden Buds, and leaders that run Committees that keep our organization moving forward.

Last but certainly not least is Grace Florjancic, our MG Program Coordinator. She has worked closely with the Practicum and many others in our gardening community to bring knowledge, great ideas, interesting presenters and instructors, and new programs to this year’s Master Gardener Program. We are so grateful that she’s part of the team at JCMGA. Thank you, Grace.

It takes a village – and when it’s super busy with preparations – it sounds like a buzzing bee hive.  Thanks to all in our hive who make it possible.