Vicki Smith
The Full Story
I have been predominately a small business owner in Northern California, and have always forged my own way. Small business ownership suits me well as I enjoy meeting and talking with people and exchanging ideas. Volunteering in my community has also been a big part of that. I regurlarly became involved in a variety of projects: such as being a HOA board member, Events Coordinator for a small shopping center, director//fundraising/Master of Ceremonies/Judge/Mentor/contestant in Beauty Pageant circles, school sports coach/club coordinator, senior care management/social activities, Garden Club events coordinator/speaker, and many personal garden design projects. I enjoyed it all, investing energy and cheerful creativity into my efforts. I found it easy to be a helpful team player who listens and encourages other to participate. Active retirement has not changed that!
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When I first discovered Groveland, I was charmed. Two things especially stood out to me: The Historic Jail garden, with its tiny but intense floral display of well adapted brilliant perennials in the middle of town. Next was Mountain Sage Nursery, a picturesque tribute to Groveland’s gold rush era pioneers with its sprawling original homestead garden setting welcoming visitors with offerings of native and ornamental plants for sale as well as a casual venue for outdoor music events, which was well loved by locals.
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The rest of the downtown was less inviting though. So much potential unrealized! So naturally
the Beautification Project attracted my interest and has helped enhance my desire to walk casually, stop and relax to savor our town a little slower. And dream. There is so much potential for future projects, and giving back to my community in this way continues to inspire that long ago original impression of what encourages those little life moments of surprise and enjoyment in an unexpected discovery. My vision for Groveland is to be a part of a team of energetic locals committed to helping enhance the viability of our town by presenting to the visiting public and local residents its attractive beauty and honoring our unique and interesting past.