Spangler’s Landscaping and Garden Center welcomed the public to celebrate their Chamber of Commerce Ribbon Cutting  ceremony, on the morning of Saturday, September 7, 2024.  This longstanding, full-service, family business began in 1971, at 12450 Lincoln Road, Morrison, IL, owned and operated by Linda and Lanny Spangler.  They are seated in the photo.  In February, when the business opened for the 2024 season, ownership had passed to a second generation:  son Jim Spangler and his (unofficial) wife Kendra Kirk.

Business hours are Monday through Saturday, 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. and Sunday, 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. until mid-November.  Call 815-772-4318 for more information.

Standing left-to-right are son David Spangler, Kirk, Jim Spangler, and daughter Lauri Ganan.

“We don’t have anything to do with [the business],” noted retiree Linda.  She and Lanny live in town.  As the Editor chatted with the couple, he pulled from his wallet two well-loved photographs.  The 62-year-old snapshot of Linda was dated 1962!

It was a well-attended event, which lasted until 6:00 p.m.  Featured were sales of chrysanthemums among copious perennials, trees, and shrubs; clothing; containers and yard ornaments.

John Armstrong served complimentary pulled pork sandwiches and hot dogs.

Jim’s friend, guitarist/vocalist Trevor Sensor of Sterling, IL, added to the entertainment.  He played “a collection of my first couple records and some newer stuff, just for an hour or so.”

Planet 93.9 KQCJ Alternative Rock Radio on-air personalities Dave Levora and Darren Pitra broadcasted live from Spangler’s.  Vice President of Sales Ronna Johnson promoted the drawing to win a “Family Adventure for Four at the Amazing Chula Vista Resort at Wisconsin Dells.”