The Ford home at corner of Cedar and Chippewa has been nurtured for 15 years by master gardener, Marcie Ford.  The orderly Rhododendron and Hosta that wrap around the porch, and natural groundcovers around the corner hedge, offer peeks of the extensive floral gardens in the side yard and vegetable garden off garage alley.  Marcie grows her annuals from seeds, passes on her seedlings and divided perennials to family and friends. Marcie also composts everything, and recycles it in her own beds.  Marcie’s family all help with the upkeep and enjoy the beauty and bounty says Awards Chair, Pat Jackson.

Portside Treats, old fashioned candy store cheerfully greets summer visitors to downtown Elk Rapids.  There is candy, homemade carmel corn, and ice cream within.  The sidewalk entrance has a nautical theme brightened with flower filled window boxes and a giant planter with vines spilling over the edges.  Paul Hresko owns several historic buildings in the Village, and has a natural eye for landscaping each.  He is not a master gardener, but consults many in the Village for ideas.  He says he does a layout and proceeds in phases.  Paul’s mother Rita Hresko runs the candy store, and has been a long time garden club member.

    Portside Treats, 137 River Street owned by Paul Hresko