Ryall, M. E. (15 August 2007). Wildlife & Garden Club. Washburn County Register, p. 15.

Wildlife and Garden Club

By Mary Ellen Ryall

July was a hot month and our gardens were especially thirsty. Ray Schultz helped with watering the kitchen and herb gardens in early morning. At this hour, you will sometimes see Mavis Viltz, Lorraine Haremza, and Ray enjoying an early cup of coffee on our patio on the west side of the building. Ray is kind enough to make sure the umbrella is up so we can enjoy being outside under some cooling shade. With the extensive gardens around the building, people take turns watering the plants. July had new helpers. Eileen Brown and Lorraine watered the flower gardens while Sr. Richelle was away. Eileen also lovingly attends her own special geranium flower display on the north side of the building.

The miniature butterfly garden is thriving next to Julie's work shed. Red bee balm and Echinacea are in full bloom. This morning I saw a ruby throated hummingbird drinking nectar from colorful nasturtium blooms. There are water containers with small-attached saucers hanging in the trees so birds, butterflies, and other small insects can get a drink. Janice Organ and Julie Weston understand that other species too need our help now with near drought conditions.

The American toad is in summer residence at the Manor. It appears the only toad in Wisconsin is raising a family right here among our gardens. I put out a little water for them to drink. Janice has put up signs at the doors stating, "Close doors quickly. Keep toads outside." Yes, life at the Manor is a relationship between just plain folks, plants, insects, and amphibians. The residents and staff rather enjoy our menagerie of summer visitors, and we welcome these happy days. No photo published