The Leesville Mayor’s Women’s Commission recently presented their July 2024 Civic Awards for Beautification to two Leesville citizens.

The residential award was presented to Gentry & Carla Allen who live at 1204 Aaron St. The front yard has several beds containing a gardenia and roses, along with a variety of gladioli and other bulbs, none of which were blooming on the date of the photo, but must be spectacular at other times of the year. The yard decorations consist of an eclectic assortment of enhancements such as whirligigs, including a windmill and more; a set of Snow White & the Seven Dwarves gnomes; and a variety of antlers decorating the front porch posts. The wood railings that extend across the entire front of the house serve as a texturally pleasing backdrop for the plantings.

Pictured above on the left are (L to R): Glenda Jarrell (MWC) and Carla Allen.

The commercial winner was Jeane’s Funeral Service located at 100 E. Union St. which is owned by Jerry and Pam Jeane. The property features colorful landscaping full of roses and what they call their “Supertunias”. Every year they buy their petunias from a Mennonite nursery on the other side of DeRidder and those purchases have never let them down, always being very productive and full, thus the “super” nickname. Pam Jeane, one of the owners, supervises the plantings and is said to be very particular about her gardens. It certainly shows, as this particular property is attractive year-round. Beautification efforts are not isolated to the front either, the handicap ramp that extends along the inner side of the property has lots of hanging baskets full of more petunias and ferns. Comfortable rockers placed at convenient locations enhance the “country cottage” atmosphere and offer a resting spot for those needing a breath of fresh air.

Pictured above on the right are (L to R): Carley Kay and Greg Lantier (employees) and Glenda Jarrell (MWC).