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(08/14/24) BATON ROUGE, La. — East Baton Rouge Master Gardeners recently celebrated its 30th anniversary at the LSU AgCenter Botanic Gardens Ione Burden Conference Center, which honored the dedication and passion of Master Gardeners, both past and present.
The celebration, coordinated by members-at-large Debi O'Neill and Charlotte Harelson, was a resounding success thanks to the collective effort of the board. The spirit of community and collaboration was evident throughout the event. Highlights included a cookout, beautifully decorated tables with simple arrangements of rudbeckia and esperanza flowers and a signature cocktail made from local honey
Key to the event’s success was the seamless delivery and preparation of food and beverages by hospitality chairs Keith and Carol Nordyke. Some of the culinary highlights were Jerri Becnel's award-winning Lone Star caviar and the signature honey lemon “mintini” cocktail crafted by Debi O'Neill and Charlotte Harelson using honey from O'Neill’s beekeeping.
Bert Hammett, East Baton Rouge Parish extension agent, served as the grand master of ceremonies. Jeff Kuehny, director of LSU AgCenter Botanical Gardens, presented an engaging history of the Master Gardeners, complete with a pop quiz on the shared history.
Bob Souvestre, the guest of honor and the East Baton Rouge coordinator of the inaugural Master Gardener class, expressed heartfelt appreciation for the celebration. He reflected on the memories shared and the talents within the Master Gardener community, highlighting the members’ significant contributions over the years.
“I was overwhelmed at the LMG 30th anniversary celebration,” Souvestre said. “Thank you for the opportunity to enjoy this milestone of history. Master Gardeners have both personal and educational talents that they are willing to share with our community.”
The 30th anniversary celebration of the EBR Master Gardeners was a testament to the strong community bonds and dedication of its members. It was a night of reminiscing, celebration and looking forward to the continued growth and success of the program.
Jeff Kuehny, director of LSU AgCenter Botanical Gardens, Bob Souvestre and Janis Souvestre celebrate the East Baton Rouge Master Gardeners 30th anniversary at the LSU AgCenter Botanic Gardens Ione Burden Conference Center. Photo by Charlotte Harelson
