Volunteer Spotlight s

Why did you choose to volunteer at the PSL Botanical Gardens?

On my very first visit I was so impressed with the beauty and peacefulness of the garden, and I wanted to be part of the community.

Do you have any goals for your time here as a volunteer?

To help make it even more beautiful in any way I can.

What do you find most rewarding about volunteering at pslbg?

The people I am volunteering with, as I have made some great friends.

What do you like to do when you’re at the Gardens?

Field work and special projects.

Who was the most instrumental person who influenced your love of gardening?

Martha Stewart

What’s your favorite tree or plant, and why?

Impatients and Royal Palms….29 years ago when I arrived in Florida that was the first thing I noticed when I got off the plane. I came from the concrete jungle (New York City) and life here was very different as there were flowers everywhere and it was summer all the time.

Outside of the Gardens, what do you enjoy doing in your free time?

I am a Guardian ad Litem and the voice for foster children in the court system, it is my way of giving back to the community and helping children. I love visiting other Botanical Gardens, hiking, and cooking.

Tell us a little bit about your family.

I am third generation Italian American, my grandmother and grandfather came here from Italy for a better life through Ellis Island, and I am very proud of my heritage. My father was a World War II Veteran and fought in the Battle of the Bulge, my husband is a Vietnam Veteran and served as Sargent Ranger LRRP. I have one son Jason who is married and one Grandson Sebastian. My son has a master’s degree from Nova, and worked for six years for the late great Rush Limbaugh.

Tell us something about you that’s interesting, or that not many people know about you.

I love to cook and entertain, I love fashion, and love chocolate!

What’s your favorite quote or saying?

Missy!!!!