Taking local to a new level

One of the aspects I like most about the densely populated Cleveland suburb I live in is that almost everything I need is within a mile - AKA walking distance - of my house, including a park with spectacular sunset views over Lake Erie, a few pharmacies, the library, my yoga studio, locally owned restaurants and boutiques, the city YMCA and grocery stores. There’s something to be said about not needing to travel long distances to live my daily life if I don’t want to. I’ve felt a strong sense of community in this town because of the close proximity of homes and businesses, and the history that can still be seen (my house is almost 100 years old, and many buildings are even older) throughout the neighborhoods.

Although I haven’t spent as much time in New Orleans, I could feel that same sense of pride and community there in February when I visited. Although much has changed since Hurricane Katrina in 2005, and some areas are still being restored, much effort is being made to keep its history alive in the present day. Marching bands, fortune tellers, historical architecture, street performers, traditional jazz bands and homestyle Cajun cooking can still be experienced in the city.

I had the chance to drop in and chat with Perino Garden Center co-owner Sal “Buddy” Perino and one of his daughters Megan Perino, in Metairie, a suburb of NOLA, while I was there. From high-quality locally grown plants to a wide variety of products highlighting the best the New Orleans area has to offer, anyone with a love of the region would feel right at home there. Read more about Perino’s starting on page 18.

We’ve got a couple of new items for you this issue. First, I’d like to introduce Dr. Sherene McHenry, a new Garden Center columnist who some of you might know from her popular sessions at NextLevel in January about improving relationships. She’ll address some of the most important interpersonal issues at the workplace that can greatly affect productivity and morale, and that often don’t get dealt with in the most effective way. This month, Sherene is focusing on an issue most of you have experienced at some point (maybe even right now) - burnout. Turn to page 30 to find out how to deal with it to have the best spring season possible.

This month we’re debuting a new special section called Garden Center Success. In it, we take a closer look at 10 thriving garden centers across the U.S. that are excelling in their region, and share some of their stories. Check out the section on page 37.

Now that the snow has finally melted (hopefully for the last time) in Ohio, I’m looking forward to seeing spring in all of its glory in my hometown. There’s nothing better than watching the city come back alive with flowers.

Happy spring!

kvarga@gie.net