Celebrating a birthday may be traumatic for some when they hit that half-century mark, but for the Vero Beach Theatre Guild a little face lift was just the magic it needed to perk things up, and soften the exterior landscape of the Theatre Guild's entryway.

Applause for the Garden Club of Indian River County, Inc. who chose this wonderful non-profit organization, now celebrating their 50th year in Vero, as the recipient of one of their community beautification projects. The grounds now boast three new Cabbage Palms; three triple Christmas Palms; and three Foxtail Palms. In addition to the palms, 93 shrubs were planted at the entrance, representing 8 varieties, and the sod was also replaced. The installation was provided by Florida Native Landscapes under the direction of owner Steve Metz. Prior to the installation Nat Jackson and Lynne Burns of the Garden Club of IRC met with Steve and representatives of the VBTG to coordinate the placement of the trees and plants. It was a wonderful and cooperative effort and the final result speaks for itself. Bravo!

Through these many community projects garden club members not only connect and learn about the Florida native landscape, but reconnect on a personal level to the special organizations that bring so much enjoyment and caring to the community at large throughout Indian River County and the surrounding areas.

Mr. John Toohey, President of the Vero Beach Theatre Guild was extremely grateful for the generosity of the Garden Club of IRC, and for their continuing support and dedication to the beautification and enhancement of the Indian River County community.

It seems fitting, in keeping with the 50's theme, that the Vero Beach Theatre Guild opens their season with the rip roaring farce Never Too Late by Sumner Arthur Long under the direction of Clara McCarthy. I guess that there really isn't too much you can do about getting older, so it's better to just keep on laughing! For more information on this local Live Community Theatre and their exciting season ahead go to http://www.verobeachtheatreguild.com/ .

It's also " never too late" to join the Garden Club of Indian River County, Inc. either. There is so much happening, and wonderful new friends to be made. Their season is starting as well, so check out their website at http://gardenclubofirc.org , and then check in to one of their meetings. I think that you will be surprised at the energy and enthusiasm of these gardeners as they multi-task many projects throughout the county including civic and community outreach and scholarships; floral design and continuing education courses; environmental and conservation awareness; youth programs; therapy gardening; and of course their must see Gardenfest! expo Under the Oaks at Riverside Park in February. A Membership Brochure will be sent upon request.

For additional information on other local and surrounding garden clubs and their activities log on to http://districx.org. The Treasure Coast is just " blooming" with fun things to see and do.

Happy 50th Birthday to the Vero Beach Theatre Guild! Curtain's Up!