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Kelowna asking Rutland residents how to spend $100000

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Rutland received plenty of attention Monday at Kelowna council’s weekly public meeting.

In addition to approving plans for a new $6 million ultra-violet water treatment system for approximately 20,000 water users on the Back Mountain Irrigation District’s system, council also gave the green light to new $100,000 plan to ask the public how the money can be spent to improve the city’s most populous residential area.

The BMID water treatment plant will be built on five acres in the Joe Rich area and will improve water quality already considered the best in the city. The land it is to be located on is in the Agricultural Land Reserve but the commission that overseas the reserve ruled last year that it could be used for the new plant.

The plant is expected to be operational next year and will be tied in with plans for a much more expensive new reservoir for the BMID system, one that will require funding from either the province or the federal government, or both.

Meanwhile, the Our Rutland campaign will see the city put up $100,000 and ask the public to submit ideas for how the money should be spent to improve the Rutland area. Mayor Walter Gray said in addition, the city’s public art fund could be used to get more pieces of public are created for the area.

Described by the city as a potential catalyst and one to help generate positive momentum through community-determined, Rutland-focussed actions, the Our Rutland project is a partnership between the city, the Uptown Rutland Business Association (URBA), the Rutland Residents Association and The Rutland Unified Stakeholders Team (TRUST).

According to the city, the money could be used for one large project or several smaller ones. It is one-time funding and cannot be used for projects already identified in previous planning documents, for re-branding or marketing the area or for Highway 33 improvements, as they are the jurisdiction of the province.

The work(s) must be implemented or constructed by Sept. 30 and must have the support of the community.

In her report to council on the initiative, sustainability co-ordinator Michelle Kam said $25 million has been spent by the city on capital investments in Rutland over the last two years, providing new transit facilities, parks, sidewalks and landscaping, as well as improvements to recreation facilities. But the city wanted to do more.

She said the neighbourhood has the best established system of parks in the city and in this year’s budget, council has allotted more than $1 million for the area, including $600,000 for the Bulman Road Bridge improvements, $400,000 for improvements to the sports fields in Rutland Centennial Park, $70,000 for lighting improvements at Rutland Arena and the $100,000 for the Our Rutland project.

Rutland (work) isn’t finished yet and it’s really getting ready to go as a community,” said Mayor Walter Gray, who joined a chorus of supporters on council for the new initiative.

The public will be asked to register with the city to propose ideas and vote on ideas for the money and can do so online at getinvolved.keowna.ca, by email at ourRutland@kelowna.ca, by phone at 250-469-8982 or in person at the URBA office, 148 Valleyview Road in Rutland.

During February there will be a series of in-person opportunities to propose and review already presented ideas, including at the:

• URBA Uptown After Hours event Feb. 5 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the Army, Navy and Air Force Veterans Club,

• Plaza 33 Shopping Centre, Feb. 6 from noon to 2:30 p.m.

• Willow Park Plaza Shopping Centre, Feb. 6 from 3 p.m. to 5:30 p.m.

• Rutland Centennial Ha Flea Market, Feb. 9 and 16 from 9 a.m. to noon

• Rutland Activities Centre, Feb. 11 from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.

• YMCA, Feb. 11 from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m.

“I’m really excited with this,” said Coun. Mohini Singh. “We’ve talked about Rutland for so long. I’m happy to see this moving ahead.”

The ideas will be gathered between now and Feb. 20 and can be shared and passed around on social media networks such as Twitter (#OurRutland) and Facebook (facebook/cityofkelowna) to gain support.

From Feb. 20 to  March 5, Kam said a feasibility analysis will take place of the ideas proposed, there will be a vote on a shortlist of ideas in mid-March and a tendering or bid process will be held for the successful idea(s) in April. Project implementation will take place from May to September and city staff  will measure the success of the initiative and report back to council in October or November.

Council Gail Given said the Rutland project will be a good launching point for similar projects in other city neighbourhoods.

Rutland is the city’s most populous residential neighbourhood and after years of watching other areas receive what many residents believed was more attention from City Hall then their area was getting, been seen council focus more on Rutland in recent years.

 

 

 

In S.F.’s Dogpatch, innovative plan to pay for park upkeep

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Progress Park sits in the shadow of Interstate 280 in San Francisco’s burgeoning Dogpatch neighborhood, a community park that just a few years ago was a fenced Caltrans property filled with rocks and debris.

The space used to be a magnet for homeless camps and illegal dumping. Now neighbors head there to play bocce, owners bring their dogs to the canine play area, and workout groups gather at the open space’s foam matting and exercise bars.

The park was built with private and public donations, a $21,000 community grant from the city, and a lot of hard work by neighbors. Those neighbors, along with a group of community members in nearby Potrero Hill, are proposing to tax themselves to pay for the upkeep of this and other open spaces in adjacent neighborhoods. Taking a page from business owners who for years have formed community benefit districts to help pay for security, landscaping and other quality-of-life improvements, the groups are working with Supervisor Malia Cohen to create a “green benefit district.”

The Board of Supervisors on Tuesday will vote on legislation by Cohen that would amend local law and pave the way for the creation of the district. Like community benefit districts, the new tax would have to be put to a vote and approved by a majority of property owners in the district.

Taxes would be assessed at 9.51 cents per square foot of property, meaning that homeowners such as Bruce Huie, who helped create Progress Park, would pay about $170 a year. Buildings housing nonprofits and industrial uses would pay half as much. The district would raise an estimated $440,000 a year – $360,000 for the Dogpatch area, which is larger, and $80,000 for Potrero Hill projects.

Hard to maintain

“It’s easy to set up projects like this, but it’s not as easy to maintain them,” Huie said, noting that the city’s parks department is stretched thin. “This neighborhood is changing. It used to be strictly industrial, and there was no one here at night. Now there are families coming in, people are bicycling and running – we want to create an atmosphere that’s conducive to people.”

The benefit district is a particularly useful tool for neighbors looking to rehabilitate Caltrans properties, said Jean Bogiages, who lives on Utah Street in Potrero Hill. The state-owned land is often regarded as an orphan by city officials, she said, and the state hasn’t been interested in spending the money to spruce up the lots that hug Highway 101 around 18th, 17th and Mariposa streets.

Bogiages and other neighbors have already worked to create two neighborhood parks near the 18th Street freeway overpass, Fallen Bridge Park and the Benches Garden. They envision other nearby Caltrans lots as terraced open spaces that could provide places for people to eat lunch or sit in the sun, and they want to build a green wall made of plants as a freeway sound barrier. They hope to attract businesses that can sell coffee or snacks – much like the ones on Octavia Street in Hayes Valley – and widen the sidewalk to make it safer for pedestrians.

The neighborhood already has raised $15,000 and hired a landscape architect who put those ideas into sketches and detailed plans.

“We want to activate the space so we can use it, reorganize it in a way that it becomes a community space,” Bogiages said, gesturing to the fenced-off area, overgrown with weeds and the site of frequent fires. “We are trying to change the whole way it fits into the community.”

Cohen, who worked with neighbors to create Progress Park when she was a candidate for supervisor four years ago, said she hopes the idea of a green benefit district will be embraced in other neighborhoods as well.

Support growing

“Literally, up to this point, it’s been neighbors taking up a collection and pooling their resources together,” she said. “We are looking to create something more stable that has longevity.”

While some neighbors were initially skeptical about taxing themselves, support has grown among property owners, Cohen said, once they understand the concept.

The district would be its own nonprofit, managed by a part-time director and governed by a board that is elected by the neighborhoods. The money could only be used in the district, for maintenance and repairs of parks and publicly accessible spaces.

“Part of enjoying San Francisco is having open spaces that enhance our quality of life in the neighborhoods,” Cohen said. “We either have to make do with what we have – which is nominal on this side of San Francisco – or come up with creative ways to solve the problem.”

Many neighbors are excited. Dogpatch resident Kim Metting van Rijn had to drive to Mission Bay Park to exercise her dog. Now she just walks to Progress Park – along with some neighbor pooches, which she now helps care for.

“It’s so great I can just come across the street,” she said on a recent sunny day as her dog played at the park. “The small businesses around here are so thrilled, and it just makes life easier. Everyone seems to care more about the neighborhood now.”

Marisa Lagos is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. E-mail: mlagos@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @mlagos

‘Facelift’ latest improvement at east side elementary

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In just three years, Kellond Elementary School has undergone quite the transformation.

The student population at the east-side campus nearly doubled from 300 to about 600 — the result of school closures that forced students from two other sites to merge into Kellond.

At the same time, the school managed to go from being rated a “C” school to earning the top grade of “A” from the Arizona Department of Education last school year.

Now, the three schools that make up Kellond are gearing up for yet another change — one that they have eagerly sought.

The change will come in the form of a community-service project that will give the school, built in 1957, a face-lift.

After unsuccessfully vying to be selected for the University of Arizona’s Cats in the Community Day in 2013, Kellond was selected for the 2014 project, which brings together UA faculty, staff members and students to beautify a nonprofit or school by taking on projects that could not otherwise be addressed.

Come March, dozens of volunteers will descend upon the school, 6606 E. Lehigh Drive, to redesign an arts and music room, paint murals, do landscaping work, install shade structures, organize, clean and complete other projects to enhance the campus.

“It’s really exciting and we see this as a way to unify the school,” Kellond Principal Scott Hagerman said. “Now that things have come together, this is the topping that says ‘things are going

great.’ ”

While there is much to be proud of, it wasn’t an easy road, Hagerman acknowledges.

It all began in 2010, when the Tucson Unified School District closed Rogers Elementary School and a number of other campuses in the name of budget cuts. Students from Rogers were assigned to Kellond.

“The Kellond-Rogers merger was incredibly difficult,” said Emma Batty, a learning-supports coordinator at Kellond. “Blending two different communities with their already established rituals and behaviors took a toll on the group. Both communities had to make compromises, and collectively worked on establishing a culture that supported all members.”

It took a year, but the new community came together, though many continue — even now — to refer to the time when the schools were their own entities.

During the 2012-2013 school year, more school closures were underway and Kellond was once again selected as a merger school for gifted students from Corbett Elementary School for the current school year — a much smoother transition as the students were excited for the change — pushing the school to inch closer to its capacity of about 630.

“Now more than ever, Kellond needs help building community,” Batty said in a proposal to the UA.

Already, parents, students and the Kellond staff are stepping forward to help with the beautification project, working alongside the UA volunteers.

“We want to reward and help bring this community of students together with this project,” said Sheila McGinnis, the UA’s director of outreach and community partnerships.

Some landscapers fear losing work in drought

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As a landscaper, Kate Anchordoguy acknowledges the drought is giving her “a real moral dilemma.”

On the one hand, the owner of Kate Anchordoguy Landscaping in Santa Rosa wants to provide work for her three employees and herself. On the other hand, she believes that 2014 may become the year for customers to leave one key element out of their landscaping projects: The plants.

“I think it’s better than wasting water this year on establishing new plantings,” she said.

Like agriculture, the landscaping industry has suffered in past droughts when residents and businesses cut back on installing new plants and on maintaining lawns and gardens.

Landscape contractors in Sonoma County differ markedly on the outlook for 2014, a year where state and local officials already are calling for a 20 percent cut in water consumption.

“If we don’t get rain, it’s really going to affect our business,” said Jeff Pottorff, owner of North Bay Landscape Management in Petaluma.

Pottorff already has met with city officials in the East Bay and heard them say that without more rain they will dramatically cut back on the water they apply to the public landscapes that his 70-worker company maintains.

However, other landscapers believe their businesses will adapt and stay busy even through another dry year. They can do so by installing drought-tolerant plants and by working to help keep existing landscapes alive.

“I don’t think I’ll lose any business,” said Linda Gottuso-Guay, who with her husband James owns Manzanita Landscape Construction in Santa Rosa. “I think people will call me to help.”

Part of that help, landscapers said, may be to consider which plants to water and which to let die.

On the North Coast, the last 13 months have been the driest in 83 years of record keeping.

The next two months are considered the best hope for significant rainfall before summer. Santa Rosa on average receives nearly 90 percent of its rain between October and March.

In response, Gov. Jerry Brown has declared a statewide drought emergency.

Meanwhile, Sonoma County and its cities are preparing to cut water use by 20 percent this year. For communities receiving water from the Russian River, the voluntary savings would amount to roughly 3 billion gallons.

The state Department of Water Resources has estimated the landscape and gardening industry lost $460 million in gross revenues and 5,600 full-time jobs in the drought year of 1991, or roughly a 7 percent cut in the $7 billion industry.

Harold Berkemeier, owner of Harold’s Landscape Maintenance in Cotati, said he took a bigger hit in the 1976-77 drought, until now considered the most consequential dry spell for North Bay homes and businesses. Berkemeier estimated his business dropped about 25 percent as property owners came under strict water rationing and stopped watering their lawns.

“They let their landscape maintenance people go,” he recalled.

Berkemeier, a former Cotati mayor and council member, said without winter rains both landscapers and residents could find themselves in a tough spot again this year. But the region needs to conserve all the water it can, and cities “should be the first to show that they’re going to cut way back” on parks and other landscapes.

Sandra Giarde, executive director of the California Landscape Contractors Association, said many of her 2,000 members already are getting calls from customers seeking advice on how to keep their plants alive.

“The public is concerned about this,” Giarde said. “They have questions. They recognize the need for expert assistance.”

Already some are changing plans. Jerry Rovetti, owner of Rovetti’s Landscaping in Santa Rosa, said the drought recently prompted owners to have him install drought-tolerant plants rather than lawn in a home going on the market in Petaluma.

For 2014, Rovetti said, “We may be pulling out a lot of lawn.” Even so, he doesn’t expect a significant drop in business because property owners still will install new plantings.

Since 1977, the state has recorded droughts in 1987-1992, 2000-2002 and 2007-2009. The dry spells already have pushed changes in landscaping, as in virtually all areas of residential and commercial water use.

For example, the city of Santa Rosa reports that since 2007, it has paid homeowners and business to remove 2 million square feet of turf. The city pays up to $250 to take out home lawns and up to $2,500 for turf removal at commercial properties, plus other funds for upgrading irrigation equipment.

Darryl Orr, an owner of Pacific Landscapes in Sebastopol, said a decade ago roughly 60 percent of his company’s work involved lawns. Today that figure is closer to 35 percent.

Orr, whose business employs 65 workers, remains optimistic that landscapers can weather the water shortage, especially if the region gets some rain in the next few months.

“We can deal with a 25 percent water cutback,” he said.

Landscapers said property owners will hire them to figure out ways to use less water and still keep plants alive.

Frank Patane, general manager of Golden Gate Landscape Management in Santa Rosa, said he takes care of 30 acres of local athletic fields and already is suggesting that his workers save water this year by leaving the grass a little higher when they cut it.

For installers, a key factor will be whether property owners decide to hold off new planting this year.

In that regard, Santa Rosa officials are discussing whether the city’s lawn removal program should encourage participants to remove turf now but to delay installing new plants and shrubs until after the rains return.

In such a scenario, home and business owners still could tear out the lawn and install drip irrigation and other improvements, “but possibly hold off on the planting,” said Kimberly Zunino, a water resources sustainability manager for the city.

Peter Estournes, director of operations at Gardenworks in Healdsburg, said without rain, other cities also may consider discouraging or prohibiting new plantings.

Estournes, a former president of the state landscapers association, said he still hopes for a “fabulous February” for rainfall. But he expects that a key job of landscapers this year will be to prompt their clients to ask: “What is my landscape worth to me? What can I do without? What’s important to me?”

Pierre Marizco, president of Marizco Landscape Management in Santa Rosa, said he foresees a dilemma: Property owners will have less water this year while plants likely will get thirsty earlier because of the lack of precipitation. That could mean stretching the reduced amount of irrigation water over a much longer period.

“I believe some difficult choices are going to be made,” Marizco said. “Maintaining all your plants in a healthy vigorous state may not be possible this year.”

JoAnne Skelly: Too much tidiness gets in way of a good garden

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I have often written that I am a lazy gardener. I try to manage my landscape with as little work as possible. Today, reading Mirabel Osler’s “A Gentle Plea for Chaos,” I found out that in regard to landscape design I am “eclectically wanton” and “less cerebral.” This sounds so much nicer than lazy. I am not a well-controlled gardener because there is no “antiseptic tidiness” in my yard; in fact, there is little tidiness at all. Osler writes, “The very soul of a garden is shriveled by zealous regimentation.” She would be quite happy in my unregimented garden. She points out that a mania for neatness or lust for conformity destroys any atmosphere and sensuality a garden might have.

She calls those who “plant and drift, who prune and amble” and who actually sit in their gardens, random gardeners who have the “freedom to loll.” True cottage gardens with flowers interplanted with herbs, veggies, berries and fruit trees are examples of lovely chaos. But lovely chaos is much harder to achieve than a contrived heavily pruned landscape. “It requires intuition and a genius for letting things have their heads,” Osler writes.

Of course, there is a time and place for precision in landscaping. How the lines in the garden are created with walls, paths, hedges, irrigation and other structural features requires planning. Every landscape should begin with tree selection and placement because “trees are the salient features around which everything else is worked.” Tree planting is precise because trees must be planted according to size at maturity, rather than randomly, in areas of the yard with good drainage and decent soil.

Existing features of a site may dominate a design. These can include native or ornamental trees, boulders, creeks (if you are lucky) or the shape of the land. Even an improper gardener will work to incorporate these effectively for function and aesthetics.

Once the bones of the garden are in and dominant elements are integrated, hard lines can be softened by letting “a bit of native vitality” take over. Allow new growth on shrubs such as forsythia to arch gracefully. Avoid pruning plants into little green meatballs. Let grape hyacinth, feverfew and other flowers self-sow where they will. Each year my garden beds surprise me with new, uninvited-but-welcome arrivals. Permit a “modicum of chaos” or some “amiable disorder.” Over time, this will set the garden singing, Osler says.

JoAnne Skelly is the Carson City/Storey County Extension educator for University of Nevada Cooperative Extension and may be reached at skellyj@unce.unr.edu or 775-887-2252.



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Garden designer lands prestigious accolade

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A garden designer from Storrington has taken one of the two most prestigious awards at the Society of Garden Designers (SGD) annual awards ceremony.

Amanda Patton received the Judges Award in front of an audience of more than 300 guests.

The accolades were presented at a ceremony in London on January 24 where 18 awards were announced including recognition for community garden projects, international schemes, excellence in public and commercial outdoor space and a special lifetime achievement award.

The Judges’ Award was given to Amanda for a private garden in Somerset, a project that the judges felt most successfully achieved one of the central foundations of good design – a sense of place.

The garden, which also took the award for best Medium Residential Garden, was described by the judges as ‘a simple idea expertly integrated into its surroundings’.

On presenting the award, judge Richard Sneesby said: “The beautiful planting, creative use of traditional materials and craftsmanship, and an intelligent and judicious nod to the 21st Century, remind us of where we are now and where we have come from.”

Amanda is a multi-award winning garden designer with awards from the RHS Chelsea and Hampton Court Flower Shows as well as industry awards including Best Garden £60,000-£100,000 in the 2010 Association of Professional Landscapers’ awards and the SGD’s Planting Design award in 2012.

The Society of Garden Designers has been championing excellence in garden design for more than 30 years.

It is the only professional association for garden designers in the UK and counts some of the UK’s leading garden and landscape designers among its growing membership.

It is active nationally and internationally, promoting its aims of supporting and maintaining the highest quality of standards within the membership through its journal, workshops, seminars, conferences and links with the construction industry.

Amanda has been a Registered Member of the Society, the highest membership category within the SGD, since 2006.

She founded her practice at the beginning of 2000 following on from a 20 year career as a professional illustrator, and has created more than 130 gardens for a diverse range of clients.

Describing her style as natural and modern, her work focuses on creating gently contemporary gardens, using predominantly natural materials and with a naturalistic planting style.

Based in Storrington, Amanda works throughout the south of England.

You can view more of her work on her website: www.amandapatton.co.uk

Tributes flow for trailblazer

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Carrying the coffin to the waiting hearse



Marlborough businessman John Marris was remembered at his funeral as a man who made sure a Blenheim firm built his new winery, even after it had been sold to multinational Lion Nathan, and who hired young men straight from school to work on his farms and gave them direction in their lives.

He was also a grandfather who could successfully teach his grandsons to behave well when rewarded with Minties.

About 300 people attended his funeral, held at the Church of the Nativity in Blenheim, on Saturday afternoon.

Mr Marris, 73, died at his home on January 26 after a long struggle with cancer.

Oldest son Brent Marris said it was the fourth time he had prepared a funeral speech, his father had declined and rallied in health so often.

“That’s the man he was – going on his own terms with all the boxes ticked.”

One of the last boxes to be ticked was to go to Leefield, and see the new vineyard planted by Brent Marris for his Marisco winery. Mr Marris said his father wanted to see the newly planted vines two weekends ago, and he was determined.

After debate, they drove him to the site, and the family sat together under a tree, drinking wine, and toasted the young vines. He died 24 hours later.

John Marris had put New Zealand on the world map for wine, he said, being the agent who had bought all the farmland that Montana planted the first commercial grapes on in 1973.

“He went the extra mile . . . At Pyne Gould Guinness, they called him ‘Rust’, because rust never sleeps.”

But it was for his commitment to family and friends that he was most remembered on Saturday afternoon.

Steve Wilkes talked about family holidays the Marris and Wilkes families took together, both families with six children.

“His ideas were always big and grand. Even on holiday, he dug the biggest holes in the sand to bury us or for us to bury him. He was just the most fun to be with.”

His grandchildren spoke of a man who would search all night with a torch to find a lost boomerang because it was important to the child, a grandfather who taught them to shoot and drive tractors, but most of all, who enjoyed spending time with them.

He knew how to make sure they learnt the manners grandmother Alison Marris wanted them to show while on holiday in Fiji – rewarding them with Minties when they were good.

Granddaughter Emma Marris, who is following in her father and grandfather’s viticultural footsteps, said the April holidays were spent in Marlborough for the vintage: “Marlborough, wine, Nan, and Granddad are inseparable in our minds.”

Business partner Phil Robinson said Mr Marris made sure Lion Nathan continued to use Robinson Construction to build the Wither Hills winery complex despite having sold the property before it was built.

Mr Robinson said Mr Marris took personal responsibility for the landscaping at the Westwood development, and he’d be there, jumping in and out of holes in his customary blue overalls, with his old white Nissan Bluebird parked nearby.

Marlborough Research Centre chief executive Gerald Hope said Mr Marris, the centre’s chairman for 30 years, was a modest man who achieved great things for the district.

– The Marlborough Express



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Lake Conroe Home & Garden Show set for Feb. 8-9

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The public is invited to attend the first-ever Lake Conroe Home and Garden Show slated for Feb. 8 and Feb. 9 at the Lone Star Convention Center in Conroe.


The event will feature 200 exhibits from experts in everything to organic gardening to interior design to custom outdoor spaces.

“We’re especially excited about the range of exhibitors, demonstrations and experts who’ll be part of this year’s show,” said Robyn Cade, President of RJC Productions and organizer of the Lake Conroe Home and Garden Show.

Show hours are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday, Feb, 8, and 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday, Feb 9.

Participants may be inspired to kick-start or finalize renovation plans with the help of design and renovation experts including: decorating, gardening, remodeling, window treatments, home theater, landscaping, kitchens baths, do-it-yourself, flooring, windows and doors, siding, heating and cooling, pools, outdoor entertainment and a myriad of other home-related products and services.

For those planning a major renovation or smaller home updates, the Lake Conroe Home Garden Show will provide the ability to comparison shop in one convenient area, find out how to make “green” improvements which can reduce electrical and heating bills, see the latest in home entertainment options, or see creative ideas to improve a home’s curb appeal.

Leslie Sarmiento, the principal designer with Decorating Den Interiors will be on hand to offer tips about how to incorporate radiant orchid, the color of the year into the home.

Lucy Harrell T.C.N.P., Organic Consultant and Specialty Landscape Designer for Toadstools Lawn, Garden and Gifts in Willis, will show how to build an organic program in a homeowner’s own yard. Harrell will do several talks and also be at the Toadstools exhibit area for questions.

DIY Expert and television celebrity Jason Cameron will be at the show on Saturday. Watch him work and it quickly becomes apparent this licensed contractor really knows his stuff, especially when it comes to his own personal passions: home improvement and landscaping. Cameron recently even gutted his own home and completely revamped the backyard.

Now he’s putting his extensive hands-on expertise to work for DIY Network building, landscaping, hardscaping and more.

The public is encouraged to bring any existing plans and budgets to discuss with the home and garden experts or pictures to share to maximize the idea exchange while at the show.

Tickets are just nine dollars for adults, eight dollars for seniors and five dollars for military. Kids under 12 are free. Parking is also free.

For ticket information, directions, parking and more visit www.lakeconroehomeandgardenshow.com.

What’s Happening for FEBRUARY (Updated FEB. 3)

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Send events of community interest in South Mississippi to mynews@sunherald.com or fax to 896-2104. Please label “What’s Happening.”

TODAY

AARP Smart Driver Class: 9 a.m., Orange Grove Library. Upon completion of the four-hour class, seniors may be eligible for a discount on automobile insurance. Details: 432-7816.

Blood drive: 1-6:30 p.m., Belk entrance, Edgewater Mall, 2600 Beach Blvd., Biloxi. To schedule an appointment, use sponsor code EWMALL, Details: redcrossblood.org,

Fleur De Lis Society Club’s Women Auxiliary meeting: 6 p.m., 182 Howard Ave., Biloxi. Details: 436-6472.

TUESDAY

At Ease Gang meeting: 7 a.m., Infinity Buffet, Treasure Bay Casino, 1980 Beach Blvd., Biloxi. Guest speaker: Sandra Andrade, senior counselor with Department of Mississippi Rehabilitation Services. Details: 214-6018.

AARP Smart Driver workshop: 9 a.m.-1:30 p.m., Ocean Spring Library, 525 Dewey Ave. Completion of class may qualify each participant for discounted auto rates. For 50 years and older, Cost: $20 nonmembers, $15 members. Details: 861-3199.

AARP Smart Driver workshop: 9:30 a.m-1:30p.m., Pascagoula Library, 3214 Pascagoula St. Completion of class may qualify each participant for discounted auto rates. For 50 years and older. Cost: $20 nonmember, $15 members. Details: 861-3199.

Beaded jewelry class: 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m., Mary C. O’Keefe Cultural Center, 1600 Government St., Ocean Springs. Create unique jewelry pieces from an assortment of fine crystals, cultured pearls, natural stones and sterling silver. Cost: $25 members, $35 nonmembers. Supplies and tools provided. Details: 818-2878.

Orange Grove Kiwanis meeting: Noon, Golden Corral, 12255 U.S. 49, Gulfport. Speaker: Diane Bennett, site coordinator for Gulf Coast Christian Women’s Job Corps. Details: 860-3311.

Second annual Diamondhead Birthday celebration: 5:30-6 p.m., 5000 Diamondhead Circle. Mayor Thomas Schafer will present the 2014 State of the City at 6 p.m. council meeting.

Science Cafe — The History and Science of Bagpipes: 6-7:30 p.m., dining hall, Gulf Coast Research Laboratory, 703 E. Beach Drive, Ocean Springs. Presenter: William Muzzy. Details 872-4213.

Thai Cooking Class: 6-8:30 p.m., Lynn Meadows Discovery Center, 246 Dolan Ave, Gulfport. Menu: Thai silver noodle salad, green curry chicken and dumplings in coconut milk. Cost: $30 members, $35 nonmembers. Details: 897-6039.

NAACP Gulfport Branch meeting: 7 p.m., Isaiah Fredericks Community Center, 3312 Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. Details: 868-1268.

WEDNESDAY

Gulf Coast Symphony Guild’s meeting: 10 a.m., St. John Episcopal Church, 705 Rayburn Ave., Ocean Springs. Program of vocal, piano and violin selections by Emily and Jayne Edwards. Details: 872-2936.

Ohr O’Keefe Museum of Art’s class for seniors: 10:30-11:30 a.m., 386 Beach Blvd., Biloxi. Cost: $3. Instructor: Marge Michoud. Craft of the creations of cards, origami, envelopes, and paper. Details: 374-5547.

Ohr O’Keefe Museum of Art’s glass mosaics: 1-3 p.m., Creel House Studio, 386 Beach Blvd., Biloxi. Ages 15 and older. Cost: $145. Four-week class using the Smalti technique. Learn the basics of working with mosaics, tile, design, layout, application. Details: 374-5547.

Jackson County Utility Authority meeting: 4 p.m., Witchen Administration Building, 1225 Jackson Ave., Pascagoula.

Mississippi Federation of Council for Exceptional Children conference: 5 p.m., 3K sunset walk, conference Feb. 5-7, walk begins at IP Casino Resort, 850 Bayview Ave. and ends at Mardi Gras Museum, 119 Rue Magnolia, Biloxi. Details: 332-0256.

Gulf Coast Italian American Cultural Society Bocce Night: 6 p.m., Armed Forces Retirement Home, 1800 Beach Drive, Gulfport. Learn, practice or play bocce on indoor regulation-size court. Cost: $5 for pizza and soda. Reservations required. Details: 539-4571.

THURSDAY

Ohr O’Keefe Museum of Art’s Valentine clay carving: 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Ceramics Studio, 386 Beach Blvd., Biloxi. Cost: $10. Details: 374-5547.

Business 101 series: 5:30-7:30 p.m., 1636 Popp’s Ferry Road, Biloxi. Topic: Think Like an Entrepreneur. Sponsored by the Gulf Coast Small Business Development Center. Details: 396-8661.

Third annual Words and Music Community Culture Series: 7 p.m. Pass Christian Public Library, 111 Hiern Ave. Storytelling presentation “Robert Johnson at the Crossroads.” Presenters: Wendy Garrison and Rebecca Jernigan. Details:452-4596.

“Fences”: 7:30 p.m. Feb. 6-8, 2 p.m. Feb. 9, 7:30 p.m. Feb. 12-15, 2 p.m. Feb. 16, 240 Eisenhower Drive, Biloxi. Cost: $16 adults, $13 students, seniors, and military. Details: 388-6258.

The Boys Next Door”: 8 p.m. Feb. 6-8, Biloxi Little Theatre, 200 Lee St. Cost: $15, $12 seniors, students, active duty military. Details: 432-8543.

friDAY

AARP Smart Driver workshop: 12:30-5 p.m., Moss Point Library, 4119 Bellview Ave. Completion of class may qualify each participant for discounted auto rates. For 50 years and older. Cost: $20 nonmember, $15 members. Details: 861-3199.

Finally First Friday: 5-7 p.m., Rue Magnolia and Howard Avenue, Biloxi.

First Friday: 6-9 p.m., 1804 Nicholson Ave., Waveland. Details: treasuresofthebay.net.

Ohr O’Keefe Museum of Art’s acrylic painting: 6-8:30 p.m., Creel House Studio, 386 Beach Blvd., Biloxi. Ages 18 and older, Cost: $35. Wear appropriate clothing. Instructor: Susan Vaughan. Details: 374-5547

Ohr O’Keefe Museum of Art’s date night: 6-8:30 p.m., Ceramic Studio, 386 Beach Blvd., Biloxi. Ages 18 and older. Cost: $25. Throw pots on the pottery wheel, keep two and instructors will glaze and fire them. Pots will be ready in two weeks for pick up. Details: 374-5547.

Mississippi Quilting Association quarterly meeting; 6:30-9 p.m., Ramada Inn, 9415 U.S. 49, Gulfport. Cost; $5 nonmembers. Details; 586-0408.

Ocean Springs Elks Lodge 2501 dinner: 6:30-8 p.m., 2501 Beachview Drive. Choice of steak or dinner. Details: 872-2501.

Belles and Buoys 36th annual Mardi Gras Festival: 7:30 p.m. Feb. 7-8, Woolmarket Community Center, 16320 Old Woolmarket Road, Biloxi. Callers: John and Deborah Carroll-Jones. Cuer: Pauline Angress. Early Rounds. Details: 596-5362.

Amour Danzar Friday night dance: 8-10 p.m., 9355 County Farm Road, Gulfport. Casual dress. Cost: $10 per person. Details: 324-3730.

AARP Tax Services: 9 a.m.-noon, Pass Christian Library, 111 Hiern Ave. Service is free to low-moderate income taxpayers 60 years and older. Details: 452-4596.

saturday

Tabernacle Missionary Baptist Church fifth annual Heart Walk: 8 a.m. registration, 9 a.m. walk, 4007 Suzanne Drive, D’Iberville. Details 392-6899.

Long Beach Farmers Market: 9 a.m.-noon, Feb. 8, 15 and 22, 125 Jeff Davis Ave., Long Beach. Sustainably grown, seasonal local produce, artisan breads, dairy, honey, eggs and more. Live acoustic music by the farmers market band.

Mississippi Quilting Association Saturday meeting; 9-10 a.m., Ramada Inn, 9415 U.S. 49, Gulfport. Cancer Pink Fund speaker: Joanne Nicely. Marge Murphy quilting with different techniques, lunch and show/tell. Cost; $5 nonmembers. Details; 586-0408.

AARP Smart Driver workshop: 9:30 a.m.-1:30p.m., St. Martin Public Library, 15004 Lemoyne Blvd. Completion of class may qualify each participant for discounted auto rates. For 50 years and older. Cost: $20 nonmember, $15 member. Details: 861-3199.

Keep Waveland Beautiful meeting: 10 a.m., Central Fire Station, third floor Training Center, U.S. 90, Waveland. Felder Rushing will share ideas about landscaping, gardening approaches and insight on the Coast with knowledge of cultivation on locally-adapted plants. Donation: $10.

Engineering is Elementary: 10 a.m.-noon, Lynn Meadows Discovery Center, 246 Dolan Ave., Gulfport. Hands-on activities and home kit provided. Recommended for third through fifth grade. Cost: $10, Details: 897-6039.

Adventure Games Day: 10 a.m.-9 p.m., Gautier Community Center. 2101 Library Lane, Gautier. Details: 249-6782.

Omega Psi Phi Fraternity annual blood drive: 11 a.m.-4 p.m., next to Belk, Edgewater Mall, 2600 Beach Blvd., Biloxi. In honor of Dr. Charles Drew. To schedule an appointment, use sponsor code OMEGAS. Details: redcrossblood.org.

Introductory Creative and Experimental Drawing Workshop: 1-4 p.m., Pass Christian Public Library, 111 Hiern Ave. Local artist will be teaching young adults an introduction to drawing. No experience required. $5 per person for supply costs, Class size is limited. Details: 452-4596.

Jerry Jenkins concert: 2-3 p.m, Lynn Meadows Discovery Center, 246 Dolan Ave., Gulfport. Drummer presents West African music. Made possible by a grant from Mississippi Arts Commission and the Mississippi Humanities Council. Details: 897-6039.

Carver High School Alumni Association annual black history program: 3 p.m., Aaron Jones Family Interactive Center, 1415 Skip St., Pascagoula. Celebration of local leaders, historical places, and other remembrances of community, Intended to recapture the historical legacy of Carver Village, familiar musics, stories and historical presentations. Details: 769-3078.

Second Saturday Artwalk: 4-8 p.m., Bay St. Louis. Sponsored by the Old Town Merchants Association. Art, music and food. Details: 463-2688.

Tops of the Hops Beer Festival: 5 p.m., Mississippi Coast Coliseum Convention Center, Biloxi. Unlimited sampling of the craft beers from around the world combined with food, music and games. Cost: $35 general admission.

Dickey’s Barbecue eating competition: 5:30 p.m., 3821 Promenade Parkway, D’Iberville. Sign up prior to the event. Details: 831-224-5615.

Mary C. O’Keefe Winter Wine Down: 7-10 p.m., Gulf Hills Hotel, 13701 Paso Road, Ocean Springs. This wine tasting competition will focus on Pinot Noir. Teams will bring their favorite Pinot Noir to be entered in the competition. Cost: $140 per team of 4.

Fleur De Lis Society Ladies Auxiliary Mardi Gras Ball: 7:30 p.m.-midnight, 182 Howard Ave., Biloxi. Entertainment: Undercover. Proper attire/no jeans. Cost: $10. Details: 436-6472.

The House Katz concert: 8 p.m., 100 Men Hall, 303 Union St., Bay St. Louis. Cost: $15. Details: 342-5770.

SUNDAY

Ocean Springs Elk Lodge 2501 steak breakfast: 9-11 a.m., 2501 Beachview Drive. Country fried steak, eggs, grits, sausage, bacon, biscuits and gravy. Details: 872-2501.

“Three Generations of Paint” reception: 2-4 p.m., The Side Porch Gallery, 953-A Howard Ave., Biloxi. Featuring Abraham Frey, Herb Willey and George Rothering. The exhibit will be open until March 29. Details: 374-9504.

Jazz Society Jam Session: 2-5 p.m., Gulfport Elks Lodge 978, 12010 Klein Road, Gulfport. Adults only, casual dress dance, Cost: $6 nonmembers. Details: 392-4177.

Champagne and Chocolate: 2-5 p.m., 1501 Beach Blvd., Pascagoula. Presented by the Anola Club. Silent auction, door prizes, chocolates and champagne. Money will allow the club to provide scholarships to graduating seniors from local high schools. Details: 769-6718.

Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Gulf Coast Alumnae Chapter 101st Founders Day Celebration: 3 p.m., Victory International Christian Center, 8401 Ocean Springs Road, Speaker: Maxine Conway. Theme: Uncompromising Commitment to Communities. Details: 596-4265.

feb. 11

Blood drive: 2-7 p.m., cafeteria, Pass Christian High School, 720 W. North Street. To schedule an appointment, use sponsor code PASSHIGH, Details: redcrossblood.org.

Mississippi Business Women/Gulf Coast’s annual state meeting: 6 p.m., Gulf Coast Myofascial, 2429 W. Commerce St., Suite C, Ocean Springs. Details: 238-1529.

Chase the Valentine’s Crush cooking class: 6-8:30 p.m., Lynn Meadows Discovery Center, 246 Dolan Ave., Gulfport. Menu: Tastings of various olive oils and vinegars, roasted fresh gulf Shrimp, and raspberry and dark chocolate Artisan marshmallows. Cost: $30 members, $35 nonmembers. Details: 897-6039.

feb. 12

Ohr O’Keefe Museum of Art’s creative storytime: 11 a.m.-noon, 386 Beach Blvd., Biloxi. Instructor: Julia Reyes. Students will create Valentine’s Day cards. Details: 374-5547.

Blood drive: 11 a.m.-4 p.m., bloodmobile, 1303 S. Market St., Pascagoula. To schedule an appointment, use sponsor code STATEFARMPASC Details: redcrossblood.org.

Coast Singles of Mississippi meeting: 5:30 p.m., St. Martin Library, 15004 Blvd. Details: 875-3138.

Fleur De Lis Society men’s meeting: 7 p.m., 182 Howard Ave., Biloxi. Welcoming new members to join French descent. Details: 436-6472.

feb. 13

Parents and Caregivers of Children with Autism and Other Developmental Disabilities meeting: 4:30-6 p.m., Mississippi Center for Autism and Related Developmental Disabilities, 4061 Suzanne Drive, D’Iberville. For parents, caregivers, interested family members and individuals. Details: 396-4434.

2014 Gulf Coast Orchid show: 10 a.m.-9 p.m. Feb. 14, 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Feb. 15, noon- 4 p.m. Feb. 16, Gautier Convention Center, 2012 Library Lane. Exhibits, art competition, children’s activities, orchid class and raffle. Details: 474-2500.

Gulf Coast Risk Managers Association luncheon meeting: 11:30 a.m., Infinity Buffet VIP room, Treasure Bay Casino, Biloxi.

Sons of American Revolution luncheon meeting: 11:30 a.m., China Star Restaurant, 353 Courthouse Road, Gulfport. Details: 863-4420.

Business 101 series: 5:30-7:30 p.m., 1636 Popp’s Ferry Road, Biloxi. Sponsored by the Gulf Coast Small Business Development Center. Topic: Starting a Business-First Steps. Details: 396-8661

Ocean Springs Chamber of Commerce annual banquet: 6 p.m., Gulf Hills Hotel and Conference Center Banquet Hall, 13701 Paso Road. Tickets: $35. The presentation will recognize outstanding Chamber members within the community. Awards, music and refreshments. RSVP required. Details: 875-4424.

Ohr O’Keefe Museum of Art’s oil painting class: 6:30-9 p.m., Creel House Studio, 386 Beach Blvd., Biloxi. Ages 16 and older. Instructor: Frank Janca. Six-week class about the fundamentals and advanced techniques. Cost: $235, Details: 374-5547.

Ohr O’Keefe Museum of Art’s wheel throwing: 6-8:30 p.m., Ceramic Studio, 386 Beach Blvd., Biloxi. Ages 15 and older. Six-week class learn the basics of throwing on the pottery wheel. Instructor: Stacey Johnson. Cost: $175. Details: 374-5547.

Amour Danzar St. Valentine’s Day potluck dinner and dance: 7 p.m., 9355 County Farm Road, Gulfport. Dance will follow dinner. Bring a covered dish. Dress casual. Cost: $20 per person. Details: 324-3730.

Dinner with a Duo: 7:30 p.m. Feb. 14-15, Oak Crest Mansion Inn, 5267 Menge Ave., Pass Christian. Gulf Coast Symphony Guild’s fundraiser, featuring soprano Kate Sawyer and tenor Richard Sawyer. Spirits auction, raffle, dinner and concert. Tickets: $75. Details: 896-4276.

FEB. 14

AARP Tax Services: 9 a.m.-noon, Pass Christian Library, 111 Hiern Ave. Service is free to low-moderate income taxpayers 60 years and older. Details: 452-4596.

Retired Senior Volunteer Program presents “Do you know … how to talk to your doctor” series: 10 a.m., Hancock Medical Center’s Business and Education Complex, 149 Drinkwater Road, Bay Saint Louis. Details: 467-9073.

84th annual Valentine Silver Tea: 3-5 p.m., East Scenic Drive, Pass Christian. Hosted by St. Monica Guild of Trinity Episcopal Church. “Trinity’s Tried and True Cookbook for Body and Soul” will be sold while tea, wine and coffee will be served with homemade dishes featured in cookbook. Cocktail attire. Details: 452-4563 or 216-4714.

“Legally Blonde-The Musical”: 7 p.m. Feb. 14, 3 and 7 p.m. Feb. 15, 3 p.m. Feb. 16, Lynn Meadows Discovery Center, 246 Dolan Ave., Gulfport. Cost: $13 general admission, $10 seniors and military, $7 students. Details: 897-6039.

A Valentine Evening to Remember: 7 p.m., Bay St. Louis Little Theatre, 398 Blaize Ave. Songs performed by Lex Mauffray, Jim Duggan and Larry Clark, accompanied by Cathy Henley and Soctt MacDonald. Music, poems, readings, skits, including dinner. Gulf Coast Writers Association is conducting a love poem contest. To enter, email poem to writerpllevin@gmail.com. Entries must be submitted by Feb. 10. Cost: $95 a couple. Details: 467-9024.

Dinner with a Duo: 6:30 p.m. social hour, 7:30 p.m. dinner and concert, Feb. 14-15, Oak Crest Mansion Inn, 5267 Menge Ave., Pass Christian. Featuring Kate Fleming Sawyer, soprano; and Richard Sawyer, tenor, accompanied by Michaelle Harrison, pianist. Cost: $75 per person. Details: 896-4276 or 832-4588.

Ocean Springs Elks Lodge 2501 dinner: 6-8:30 p.m., 2501 Beachview Drive. Chicken Cordon Bleu dinner by Ladies Auxiliary. Detais: 872-2501.

feb. 15

Arbor Day disability run: 8 a.m.-noon, Disability Connection, 700 Pass Road, Gulfport. Details: 870-7775 or 597-7000.

Blood drive: 9 a.m.-2 p.m., bloodmobile, Nutrition Solutions, 2198 Bienville Blvd., Ocean Springs. To schedule an appointment, use sponsor code NUTRITIONSOLUTIONS. Details: redcrossblood.org,

Ohr O’Keefe Museum of Art’s Adopt-a-Bowl fundraiser: 11 a.m.-3 p.m., 386 Beach Blvd,, Biloxi. Art, food, pets, music pet adoptions, doggie kissing booth and games. Half price admission to museum during event. Details: 374-5547.

City of Pascagoula’s Krewe of Little Rascals children’s parade: Noon. Route starts at the Pascagoula library down to Delmas Avenue and will end in front of Anchor Square.

Ocean Springs Elks Mardi Gras Parade: 1 p.m., starting in front of the Ocean Springs Yacht Club and proceeding from Washington Avenue to Government Street and ending at the high school. Theme: Coastal Duck Dynasty.

Timber Ridge Women’s Club Mardi Gras parade: 2 p.m., Pass Christian. Best viewing areas are along Forrest Street and Fairway and Fernwood drives. Theme: Whatever Floats Your Boat.

Orange Grove Carnival Association parade: 2 p.m. Parade will start on Prudie Circle, turn left onto Three Rivers Road and continue to Dedeaux Road, turn right onto Dedeaux Road and end at U.S. 49. Theme: OGCA strikes a pose.

Soiree on the Bay: 7 p.m., Longfellow Civic Center, 122 1/2 Court St., Bay St. Louis. A live silent and live auction hosted by Holy Trinity Catholic School. Food, drinks and dancing. Details: soireeonthebay2014.com.

Fleur De Lis Society’s Saturday night dance: 8 p.m.-midnight, 182 Howard Ave., Biloxi. Music: by Nick Mattina and the Checkmates. Cost: $15 couples, $8 singles. Details: 436-6472.

FEB. 16

Blood drive: 8 a.m.-1 p.m., Parish Hall, St. Clare Catholic Church. 2365 Beach Blvd., Waveland. To schedule an appointment, use sponsor code STCLARE. Details: redcorssblood.org.

Lizana Carnival Association parade: 1 p.m., Lizana Elementary School, 15341 Lizana School Road, continues to Cable Bridge Road, North to Moran Road and finishes back at the school. Best viewing areas are along Northrop Cuevas Road, Moran Road, Cable Bridge Road and Lizana School.

FEB. 17

Mississippi Business Women Connections’ meeting: 6 p.m., Ocean Springs Library.

FEB. 18

Blood drive: 8 a.m.-12:30 p.m., bloodmobile, Chris’ Beauty College, 1265 Pass Road, Gulfport. To schedule an appointment, use sponsor code BEAUTY. Presenting donors will receive a coupon for a free haircut. Details: redcrossblood.org.

Negrotto’s 10th annual African American Art and Heritage Celebration: 5:30-7:30 p.m., 2645 Executive Place, Biloxi. Fusion exhibit includes artists, musicians, dancers, writers, poets and others. Details: 388-8822.

Mississippi Business Women’s connections meeting: 6 p.m., Ocean Springs Library, 525 Dewey Ave. Details: 238-1529.

Seafood cooking class: 6-8:30 p.m., Lynn Meadows Discovery Center, 246 Dolan Ave., Gulfport. Instructor: Kenneth Jones. Menu: Barbecue shrimp, trout saltgrass and bananas foster. Cost: $30 members, $35 nonmembers. Details: 897-6039.

FEB. 19

Blood drive: 7:30 a.m.-5 p.m., Medical Office Building Atrium, Memorial Hospital, 4500 13th Street, Gulfport. To schedule an appointment, use sponsor code MEMORIALGPORT. Details: redcrossblood.org.

Third annual Cocktail Classic: 6 p.m., Carter Green Steakhouse, Island View Casino Resort. Presented by Gulfport Chamber of Commerce and Island View Casino Resort. Money raised support Gulfport Chamber of Commerce’s Small Business grant program and scholarships for graduating seniors. Details: 604-0014.

FEB. 20

Blood drive: 9 a.m.-2 p.m., gym, St. Vincent de Paul Elementary School, 4321 Espy Ave., Long Beach. To schedule an appointment, use sponsor code STVINCENT, Details: redcrossblood.org.

Blood drive: 9 a.m.-1:30 p.m., bloodmobile, Triton Systems, 21405 B Ave., Long Beach. To schedule an appointment, use sponsor code TRITON, Details: redcrossblood.org.

Business 101 series: 5:30-7:30 p.m., 1636 Popp’s Ferry Road, Biloxi. Topic: How to Develop a Business Plan. Sponsored by the Gulf Coast Small Business Development Center. Details: 396-8661.

Blossom Family YMCA’s Second annual father-daughter dinner: 6 p.m., Gulf Hills Hotel and Conference Center, 13701 Paso Road, Ocean Springs. Ages 5 and older. Reservations include buffet dinner for two, photobooth pictures, corsage, limo ride and spa time. Cost: $55 a couple for members, $75 nonmembers, $25 additional child, Details: 875-5050.

Sixth annual Taste of Jackson County: 6:30-8:30 p.m., The Grand Magnolia Ballroom and Suites, Pascagoula. Seventeen restaurants will be featured with a variety of food and beverages. Entertainment: Sicily Swing Trio. Cost: $35. Details: 762-3391.

FEB. 21

AARP Tax Services: 9 a.m.-noon, Pass Christian Library, 111 Hiern Ave. Service is free to low-moderate income taxpayers 60 years and older. Details: 452-4596.

Private Applicator training: 1 p.m., Harrison County Office building, 2315 17th St., Gulfport. Training for private pesticide applicators who wish to obtain certification. Must be 18. Cost: $10. Details: 865-4227.

Blood drive: 8 a.m.-1:30 p.m., gym, D’Iberville High School, 15625 Lamey Bridge Road. To schedule appointment, use sponsor code DIBERVILLEHS. Details: redcrossblood.org.

Family cooking class; 6-8:30 p.m., Lynn Meadows Discovery Center, 246 Dolan Ave., Gulport. Pete the cat presents cooking with the letter ‘P’. Menu: Parmesan bread sticks, pepperoni pizza and pineapple upside down cake. Cost: $25 one parent and child, additional person $5. Details: 897-6039.

FEB. 22

Pete the cat visit: 11 a.m., Lynn Meadows Discovery Center, 246 Dolan Ave., Gulfport. Enjoy singing, dancing and photos with Pete the cat. Cost: $2 members and $11 nonmembers. Details: 897-6039.

Bay St. Louis Krewe of Kids parade: 11 a.m. Route is along Dunbar Avenue.

Krewe of Legacy parade: Noon, Pass Christian. Best viewing areas are Vidalia and Cable Bridge roads. Theme: Unmask the Myth.

Second Liners Mardi Club parade: 1 p.m. Best places to view the parade are on Main Street, Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard and Esters in Biloxi.

Moss Point Mardi Gras parade: 1 p.m. Route is along Main Street.

Mystic Krewe of Pine Island parade: 1:30 p.m. Route: South end of Johns Bayou Road and goes to Marina Road and returns. Theme: Characters of Pine Island.

Blood drive: 2-6 p.m., bloodmobile, Papa John’s Pizza, 15258 Crossroads Parkway, Gulfport. To schedule an appointment, use sponsor code PAPAJOHNS,

Mardi Gras Mayhem in the Park: 2:30 p.m. bicycle parade registration, 3:30 p.m. parade begins, 2250 Jones Park Drive, Gulfport. Family movie with refreshments and jambalaya cookoff competition. Details: 868-5881.

Carnival Association of Long Beach parade: 6 p.m. Route is along Cleveland Avenue, East Railroad Street, Jeff Davis Avenue and East Fifth Street.

Gautier Men’s Club parade: 7 p.m. Best viewing areas are along U.S. 90 from Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College campus west to Dolphin and around Singing River Mall. Theme: Mystic Dynasty of the Ducks.

FEB. 23

Krewe of Nereids parade: 1 p.m. Route will begin at Drinkwater and U.S. 90 in Bay St. Louis rolls west ending at Auderder Street and U.S. 90 in Waveland.

FEB. 24

Blood drive: 1-6:30 p.m., Belk entrance, Edgewater Mall, 2600 Beach Blvd., Biloxi. To schedule an appointment, use sponsor code EWMALL, Details: redcrossblood.org.

FEB. 25

Greek cooking class: 6-8:30 P.m., Lynn Meadows Discovery Center, 246 Dolan Ave., Gulfport. Menu: Greek fried cheese, cucumber dip, beef and potato moussaka and coconut delight. Cost: $30 members, $35 nonmembers. Details: 897-6039.

FEB. 26

Blood drive: 8 a.m.,-2 p.m., gym, Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College, 2226 Switzer Road, Gulfport. To schedule an appointment, use sponsor code MGCCCJD, Details: redcrossblood.org.

FEB. 27

Blood drive: 8 a.m.-2 p.m., library, St. Martin High School, 11300 Yellow Jacket Road. To schedule an appointment, use sponsor code STMARTINHS. Details: redcrossblood.org.

Blood drive: 9 a.m.-2 p.m., bloodmobile, Virginia College, 920 Cedar Lake Road, Biloxi. To schedule an appointment, use sponsor code VCBILOXI, Details: redcrossblood.org.

Business 101 series: 5:30-7:30 p.m., 1636 Popp’s Ferry Road, Biloxi. Topic: Cash Flow Projections for your Business Plan. Sponsored by the Gulf Coast Small Business Development Center. Details: 396-8661.

Canvas and Mocktails; 6-8 p.m., Beau Rivage Casino and Resort, 875 Beach Blvd., Biloxi. Presented by K J Foundation and Linda Lang Ishee of Canvas and Cocktails. Money raised will go towards purchasing driving simulator to be used by Harrison County School to enhance driving education program. Tickets: $50. Details: 328-3833.

FEB. 28

AARP Tax Services: 9 a.m.-noon, Pass Christian Library, 111 Hiern Ave. Service is free to low-moderate income taxpayers 60 years and older. Details: 452-4596.

Ocean Springs Carnival Association parade: 7 p.m. Parade begins Front Beach to Porter Avenue to Washington to Government ending at Holcomb.

Lynn Meadows Discovery Center free Friday night: 8 p.m., 246 Dolan Ave., Gulfport. Details: 897-6039.

Master Gardener

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Once again the garden trend report is out from the PR firm, Garden Media. It’s a wonderful report about 115 pages in length and full of information about more than just garden trends.

They are calling this year the Year of Happiness, finding ways to do things more simply, finding what makes you happy and content and finding peace within your environment.

An article on Huffington post by Dr. Larry Dossey entitled “Is Dirt the New Prozac”, states “There’s only one cure; take a hike, go camping or root around in my veggie garden. These activities are more than a hobby; they have become an essential part of my life and an important element in my personal health plan”. To read the entire article go to: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/dr-larry-dossey/is-dirt-the-new-prozac_b_256625.html

With more people wanting to shrink their environmental footprint, the trend of sustainability is still holding on for the current year. Bill Doeckel of Ball Innovations states, “Sustainability is alive and well. People care about what they put in their mouths, what they put in their bodies and what is around them, in that order”. Use better fertilizer management, rainwater collection, and use recycled materials in the garden. Choose to make 2014 the year you pay more attention to sustainability and local matters.

Other trends to take note of are:

· Organic farms increasing 9% a year

· Sales of organic products increasing at double digit rates

· Products or services must truly be Eco-Positive

· Globally gardening is up 3% yearly from 2007-2011 and predicted to grow 1% annually from 2011-2016

· Lawn and Garden yearly spending is a whopping $58 billion

· Perennials have increased 10% in last 10 years while annual have dropped 10%

· National Gardening Association survey says DIY gardening is up 2% since 2011

· Food Gardening increased for the 6th straight year, and is now bigger in spending power than Flower Gardening

· The internet has become the newest friend and neighbor for gardening advice, utilizing websites, Facebook, Twitter and email

· Composting is on the rise – 25% of households do some form of composting. More and better education is needed for consumers on Food Scrap recycling. 97% of food scraps end up in the landfill, generating 35,000,000 tons annually of waste products. Lots of major cities across the country are implementing Food Scrap programs.

· Super foods such as blueberries, kale, variety of greens, herbs and berries are on the rise for the 3rd straight year.

· Drinking your garden, yep that’s what I said. One of the hottest new books out is The Drunken Botanist by Amy Stewart. Grow products in your garden to turn into juice, smoothies or homemade alcoholic beverages. The use of herbs and vegetables as a garnish is another way to add interest and more flavor to your drinks.

· Small scale gardening include; straw bale gardening, containers, microgardens and microgreens are more popular than ever.

· Outdoor living and decorating your space with fire pits, fireplaces, trellises, containers and all forms of hardscaping is up again from last year. A noted increase in outdoor entertaining and garden parties has raised the sales in the above products.

· The balance between the old and new – know your neighbors, eat locally, shop at farm markets or buy from CSA’s (Community Supported Agriculture) and become a steward of the Earth.

An important issue is bees. Be aware of their existence and viability. One third of all honey bee colonies are gone. 85% of earth’s plant species require pollinators to exist. There is a definite rise of beekeepers across the county, but Colony Collapse Disorder is still a concern. Make a home for your bees, put in plants that attract them and buy your honey locally.

The benefits of trees are highlighted more than ever. Trees increase property values 3-10%, absorb noise, provide beauty and peace, vital to environmental health, filter the air and shade the lawn and your home.

During this cold snowy time of year, be thinking of all the new trends when you design your new gardens and landscaping ideas for the coming spring. Happy Gardening.

For a complete report visit: www.gardenmediagroup.com.

Susan Liechty is a Delaware County OSU Extension Master Gardener Volunteer