Digging Deeper

When she showed up at our Block Captain Meet and Greet in May 2025, her enthusiasm was contagious! New to the Ludington Petunia Parade (or so I thought), she and her 7‑year‑old son represented four generations of family who have participated in our annual beautification project.

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Welcome Lisa Erickson!

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Capturing her story over coffee in January was a joy. Her stories from the past—and her new title as Block Captain—were pure fun to hear.​ She said, “I have lived here for 20 years and took the petunias for granted. I came to realize this is a huge effort. For someone rolling into Ludington, the blooming flowers are gorgeous!”

 

Her words are consistent with what we heard from our Block Captains when we asked, “Why does the Ludington Petunia Parade matter to you?”

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Beautification project! Community working together! History!

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An optimist, Lisa is much like her grandpa, who was a member of the Optimist Club. And her son, a fourth-generation petunia volunteer, is now seeing the “why” behind the 34,000 petunias.

 

Lisa spoke highly of the Ludington Petunia Parade board’s attention to detail —whether during the Meet and Greet gatherings or the Planting Day pick‑up. She recognized the behind-the-scenes work of this non-profit organization, noting the many improvements over the past 39 years.

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Ah yes, she remembers the past and celebrates the present. An Uncle arrives with a drill; an experienced Block Captain suggests red/white/blue or purple popsicle sticks—and the template works.

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On a Saturday in May 2025, she admits she was a bit overwhelmed. Daunting was her word. But with the help of family and friends, they planted 12 flats (864 petunias) in record breaking time!

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Her final words: “All things positive! We need this connection in our community. If petunias are what brings people together, we need it!”​​