<back

Hi Alice, Thanks for the lowdown on the neat new stuff! I just wanted to give you a testimonial on the "Victoria" pansies I bought at Funke's a couple of weeks ago. They were not in bloom, but the large leaf looked interesting and the tag info was enticing. They are
blooming now and are outstanding! Ruffled leaves and muted colors look
great with the big green leaves. I stopped back last weekend to pick up
a few more. Most are gone, but there are still a few along the side of the greenhouse. See you soon! CM

What a beautiful and memorable e mail. The images of the boy laughing, the
talks with various customers, the old dog, the
horticulture student, the red-haired optimist 20 years ago -- all those
things stay in my mind. I wish you wrote the gardening column for the
newspaper! I'm going to come plant shopping and will tell all my friends to
hurry over to Funkes. Claudia Reilly

thanks for all the tips

I also just wanted to let you know that I usually shop by
myself..without my boys because I like to browse and look and enjoy all
the plants before I decide but one Sunday we were close to the store. I
could not resist stopping and they said okay I could stop. I even had
one more boy with me for a total of 2 teenagers and one 8 year old.

Well they loved the place and just went all over....even to parts I
have never been. Thanks for a great shopping experience for all of us!
I bought two of the huge geraniums that day while they petted cats!

Thanks... Valencia Brown

Sun, 1 Jun 2003 16:51:37 EDT

Hi,
Happy to hear Funkes is here to stay. Family owned and working companies are hard to come by. Decisions are hard to make. I have always been pleased with your quality of merchandise and the helpfulness of you and your staff.Congratulations and best wishes for Great Gardening. I appreciate all your educational tidbits too.

Mary Lou Aufmann

Tue, 3 Jun 2003 01:23:54 -0400
> > i am so glad to hear that you are staying in business. you are a
> > rare find! great people who know about what they are selling and
> > great prices. i moved to cincinnati 8 years ago and only found out
> > about you last year. try more advertising to get the word out. i
> > tell people about you any chance i get. you really do a service for
> > those of us who are passionate about flowers. thanks cindy

On Thu, 22 May 2003 11:27:45 -0400, Mary Ellen Wilson wrote
>> What a neat adventure? I felt I was in the truck with you and I was
>> definitely looking around the "springing" gardens.
>>
>> Your spirit is inspiring.
>>
>> Hope you have a good Memorial Day weekend.
>>I was privileged to spend time in Sussex,
England in the late 80s. The gardens in Spring with the wonderful
cottages are breath taking. I am always looking for the sights and
sniffing for the smells here. You brought me to that place. Thank you.

Alice -
I smile as I read your story....
enjoying the richness of life as you share it.
Thanks - always.
Loveland is too far from you!!
but I will get down there - probably in late June.
I'm heading off to Maine (talk about far!)
for my daughter's graduation.
You are a dear soul -
keep writing
and gardening
and sharing.
Geralyn

Dear "Al"

First, let me say I am glad you are able to keep Funke's open for people who love to garden.

I am always so touched by your e-mail stories. Although I am not one of your regular shoppers I try to get down there 2-3 times a year. I hardly have time for gardening anymore but was once an avid gardener. I found it gave me a sense of connectedness to nature and Spirit.

09/12/03

keep up all the good work. i am still spreading the word about funkes.
will definitely tell our school about using you for all gardening needs and
the fund raiser idea with poinsettas was brillant. you are a real gem.
cindy

12/10/03

Al,

Just wanted to write a quick note to say "Thank You"!

We were down on Saturday looking at the trees and decided on the Balsam Fir
after much discussion about how full and tall it was.

We are very pleased. It has opened up nicely and is one of the most beautiful
trees we have had.

Thanks for not letting us leave empty handed!

Jennifer Schmidt

02/10/04

Hey, Al

Just wanted to say thankyou for the enlightening history about Funke's
and the surrounding area.......gives a whole new perspective on your
farm and Cincinnati. I will do my best to continue to support your
beautiful nursery, which is still one of the few places in the city
where a gardener can become lost and inspired at the same time. And
again, I cannot thank you enough for that.

Sincerely,
Michael C. Couch

02/10/04

All attachments
Dear AL

I woke up and could not sleep and decided to turn on the puter..

What a wonderful bit of history I have found here waiting for me.
I have reread this twice and will print it out for my son Tom to read and he will enjoy it greatly. To think that my grandpa Reinert was a huckster at Findley market makes me now know why he was the generation that started with your family. He raised tomatoes in the back yard in Norwood where my family had settled and where my Dad was born and raised and he helped his Dad at the market . My Mom and Dad settled on the same street in Norwood where we were raised and we came to Funke's for all of the veggie and plants and where I had brought my children to buy all of my flowers and we bought veggies at Kettlers all of their lives... funny how we were tied into coming to your family's farm and to think Tom worked for your family and now I have brought his daughter to your family's business.. my what a small world.

Tom and his wife have had a rough few months with little Olivia..
She had been sick around the holidays and was waiting for a feeding tube surgery as she has been a hard child to feed, when she was ill it put her in the hospital for a whole week and Tom and Tina were also sick like most people were at that time and were not permitted to stay with her while she was in Childrens Hospital.. go good ole Nanna stayed the whole time with her 24/7 and we if not bounded by now sure did then.. came her to our home in Parkview Hgts as mom and dad were not well yet themselves . She was able to get well and so did mom and dad in time for the scheduled surgery on the 6th of Jan.. and they all moved in here for the duration of recouperation as they were not comfortable with the feeding tube and being by themselves . We all hunkerdown for all the cold and bad weather and we all learned how to care for Olivia.. so now Nanna and Pappa and Mom and Dad have learned how to care for her and all were comfortable with her. What a time of it we had but - they all moved home this weekend and we all were still talking to each other and Olivia is thriving and that was our main goal.. what a few weeks we have had.

So to read your history lesson this early Sunday morning has made me appreciate family and how we all have come to know each other.. Wonderful reading and sharing you have done and now know a bit more of our family history also..

Am sure you're are proud of your family and it roots.. I sure am for your family.

Olivia and I will be back this spring and perhaps you wont know her to see her as by then she might be a healthy little girl who will just win your heart to look at her..

Enjoy the rest of the winter and prepare for a good season

In friendship and love Marty Lamb aka "Nanna"

On Tue, 10 Feb 2004 14:36:26 -0800 (PST), Melanie Newstate wrote
> Hello Al!
> I just had to tell you how fascinating your family history article
> was. I always enjoy your newsletters, but this one was exceptional.
> It really makes you appreciate how easy we have it today, compared
> to our ancestors. I'll be stopping by soon! Melanie
>

Date: Wed, 5 May 2004 13:13:19 -0400 Download RE: Email specials and cicada update :).msg
From: "Amy Finnegan"
To: <info@funkes.com>
Subject: RE: Email specials and cicada update :) All headers

I came in Sunday and bought a flat of impatiens and a bag of your potting mix, it is by far the best potting mix I have ever used. I love it and have been recommending it to everyone. My impatiens are doing great and I planted the moonflower you showed me. I forgot to tell you Sunday that last fall I bought from you tulip bulbs and they came up beautiful this year. I am hooked, I am buying all my flowers and plants from Funke's. Thank you very much.

Amy Finnegan
College Hill

Date: Fri, 7 May 2004 20:22:54 EDT Download Re: Email specials and cicada update :).msg
From: MISUARNO
To: info@funkes.com
Subject: Re: Email specials and cicada update :) All headers
All attachments
Greetings, Al! Thanks, as always, for the great info. We at the nursery on Tuesday and found everything we were looking for.......including the beautiful fuchsia that we bought last year. Looked as though the Gartenmeister was just about gone......glad we didn't wait to shop! Your impatiens are beautiful and we appreciated the good sale! I'm sure we'll be back in for more plants once we get all of these planted and see what else we will need. Have a great weekend! D, J & MM Arno

Date: Thu, 13 May 2004 07:51:06 -0400
From: Nancy McIntosh t
To: <info@funkes.com>
Subject: Re: upcoming events and specials All headers

Thank you, it brightens my day to recieve this.
Thank you for speaking from your heart, every time.
Thank you for your love of the earth and growing things.
N.McIntosh

On Thu, 3 Jun 2004 07:51:02 -0400, ariel miller wrote
>> Al, I just wanted to say that coming to Funke' s is spiritually
>> recharging. I look forward to it as a longed-for reward after a
>> hard work week. Your greenhouse is a garden of peace. It would be
>> horrible if you went out of business. I am so sorry to read about
>> the stress and financial worry brought on by the weather and the
>> phobias. I have just finished putting in roses and hostas and ferns
>> from the wonderful cicada sale and thank you for those beautiful
>> plants, that are part of the restoration of the green spaces around
>> our old house.
>>
>> Keep the faith! We'll keep coming as long as you are there!
>> yours,
>> Ariel Miller

RE: Cincinnati's best nursery

I can see why you were given this award. I just had a negative experience with one of your competitors. I was passing by the back entrance of Gear's Garden Center in North College Hill. There was a large dumpster there, and I could see plants and pots in the top of it. I started rescuing some plants, and a man came out and asked what I was doing. I told him I didn't want the plants to die. He said they were already dead or he would be selling them. He ran me off. It was stuff that was left out all winter and had weeds growing in them that he didn't want to bother with, but he would rather throw them away than let someone have them. Totally opposite from you. I used to buy my tomato plants there, but no longer. I will travel the extra distance to do my business with you from now on.
Marti

Date: Sun, 5 Jun 2005 20:25:37 +0000
From: Gilbert and Brenda Martin>
To: <info @ funkes.com>
Subject: Your newsletter

Hello Mr. Funke,

Thanks for alerting us to this scam that the person with Blue Ribbon Blooms is doing. It is interesting enough that a friend of my cousin bought some at a garden center in northern KY and she heard the same misimformation.

Gardeners really need a voice for consumers like yours. Keep up the good work. I guess we need an a voice like yours when it comes to uncover such scams.

Brenda

Date: Fri, 3 Jun 2005 10:30:34 -0400 Download RE: new stock is in :).msg
From: "Timothy Trachsel"

To: <info @ funkes.com>
Subject: RE: new stock is in :)

Al: My wife and sister in law made the front of my office building look
beautiful thanks to your flowers and bushes.
At $500 + in material it was a bargain.... Thanks again for providing us
with affordable, great quality growies!

A customer for life,

Timothy G. Trachsel, Principal / Manager ( formerly VP Construction North
American Properties)
The T2 Group, LLC
P.s. I have to laugh when I go to that big orange box for paint or other
construction supplies.... Plant bargains? More like slow death plants....

Date: Mon, 13 Mar 2006 06:14:01 -0800 (PST) Download New stock just in!.msg
From: Patty Dierker
To: info@funkes.com
Subject: New stock just in! All headers
All attachments
Al,

What a breath of FRESH air you are! This is why I always do business at Funke's; good ol fashioned honesty. Can't go wrong with that.

Also, so glad to hear you are now open on Sunday; rest of the week is consumed with work and errands on Saturday.

Can't wait to come in and view the new stuff.

Thanks again,

Patty

Date: Sat, 11 Mar 2006 22:24:17 -0500 Download Re: New stock just in! .msg
From: <
To: info@funkes.com
Subject: Re: New stock just in! All headers

Al,

I really am glad that there are honest and sincere people like you still in the garden businesses. You are a true American! I think if you ran for political office you could clean up the mess.

Brenda

Date: Fri, 10 Mar 2006 09:11:12 -0500 Download Re: info wanted.msg
From: Beverly Hittle
To: info@funkes.com
Subject: Re: info wanted All headers

Great! Thanks for the info & offerings. We are still in the process of
clearing our backyard a bit. My husband cut down what I called "weed
trees" from the back of the property & now we're just clearing it. It
will probably be the end of March, beginning of April before we
construct our beds. But, I was planning on stopping in to pick up some
pansies soon. So, I'll check out the windchime display to look at the
mulberry. I'm not as concerned about the look of the wood, as I am
about constructing it & the cost. We are a bit "constructive challenged!"
Thanks again!
Beverly

ps--Also a big thanks for your annual Xmas trees & marshmellows! My
husband & I have been buying our tree from you for 3-4 years & now that
we have a little one, it has become a family tradition. Thanks for that!

Date: Fri, 10 Mar 2006 6:21:54 -0500 Download Re: thanks a lot .msg

To: info@funkes.com
Subject: Re: thanks a lot All headers

-hi al,--- info <info@funkes.com> wrote:
YOU ROCK!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
i can't wait to get my fat little fingers into the soil this spring. keep the inspirationals coming.
........
bill

Subject: Re: Bedding plant info :) All headers
All attachments
Thanks for the alert on chemicals etc. used by many of the garden growers for selling to the public. Because you care about this and try to be as organic as possible, plus have hardy plants,plus being a family owned garden center is why I buy from you and urge others to do likewise.

Our best to your mother for her surgery and recovery.

Mary Lou

Date: Thu, 11 May 2006 10:04:24 -0400 Download Newsletter Praises.msg
From: "ArtisTree Studios" Block email artistree@fuse.net Block SMTP Relay smtp2.fuse.net
Reply-to: <artistree
To: <info@funkes.com>
Subject: Newsletter Praises All headers
All attachments

Hi Al,

Just a note to let you know how much we appreciate your newsletter and all its invaluable info. For instance, my sister bought her impatiens from a national chain store the same day I bought mine from you about two weeks ago. She planted hers the same day I did, which was the day you said it was probably okay to plant them. Mine have doubled and tripled in size in those ten days or so and hers are listlessly snoozing away, possibly dreaming about growing, but not actually DOING anything yet. When she asked my thoughts on why this was going on, I forwarded her your newsletter on growth retardants. She’s now a convert to Funke’s. Yea!

Thanks so much!

Marty

Wed, 24 May 2006 11:57:21 -0700 (PDT) Download Re: just in case....msg
From: Patty Dierker
To: info@funkes.com
Subject: Re: just in case... All headers
All attachments
Al,

I so appreciate all your little extras; it means so much to those of us who come in and purchase the regular priced items all the time. I bought half dozen J&P roses, the old fashioned kind (I call them cabbage roses) and many annuals.

Again, thanks.

Patty

Date: Wed, 26 Jul 2006 08:42:41 -0400
To: info@funkes.com
Subject: A thoughtful "Rant" All headers
All attachments

Dear Al,

Just a note to say thanks for all of the great "gifts" and specials we've enjoyed over the years and to say that I was moved by your discourse on the under-class crisis. I've always felt that some politicians pull the ladder up behind them and some encourage others to use it -- but these folks/politicians are getting fewer and farther between. Exxon is back on our hit list and I thank you for keeping the small business in business--Funke's forever--Best of luck and we'll see you and Helen at the nursery. Glad to hear Helen is surviving the chemo and always good to see her at the counter (I believe she knows my former Mom-in-law, the wonderful Carol Kuhlman from the church across from Spring Grove--she too is a cancer survivor! She recently had a heart attack but is back to work--she a tough cookie with a soft heart.)

Thanks for keeping our gardens growing and our minds expanding!

Cathy Springfield

Director of Theatre Arts
Xavier University
3800 Victory Parkway
Cincinnati, OH 45207-2122

Date: Wed, 26 Jul 2006 09:56:40 -0400
To: info@funkes.com
Subject: Re: [SPAM]::e-mail specials :) All headers
All attachments

I AGREE WITH YOU 100% AL!

And you'll be happy to know that I support small business and Funke's in particular. My yard is a veritable Funke's store in and of itself and I get comments from ALL my neighbors and friends on just how beautiful it is....and I tell them I shop at Funke's!!

Your Faithful Funke's Shopper -
Jennifer Schmidt

Date: Tue, 25 Jul 2006 20:30:25 -0400
To: info@funkes.com
Subject: Re: e-mail specials :) All headers

Amen, Al. Keep up the good work. John Batchler

Date: Thu, 3 Aug 2006 01:40:35 -0700 (PDT) Download Re: e-mail specials :).msg
From: Melanie Newstate
To: info@funkes.com
Subject: Re: e-mail specials :) All headers
All attachments
I enjoyed your rant, Al! I never shop at WalMart, and I agree that the Exxon Mobile Boycott need to be revived!
Melanie

Date: Thu, 26 Oct 2006 10:39:12 -0400 Download Landscaping.msg
From: Jan Warren
To: <info@funkes.com>
Subject: Landscaping All headers

Al,
Thanks for the wonderful completion of the landscaping at the steps you
built earlier this summer! I'm so pleased. I will be planting the rest of
the hostas this weekend. If you'll let me know how much I owe for this
phase of the project, I can drop off a check on Saturday.
Jan

Date: Mon, 13 Nov 2006 10:09:33 -0500 Download RE: Ornamental cabbage & Kale special!.msg
From: "Laura Hirshman"
Subject: RE: Ornamental cabbage & Kale special! All headers
All attachments

Hi Al,

I just thought I’d drop you another line, this time congratulating you on your good business practice of sending personal emails to us all. First, I want to say that I really appreciate the more upbeat tone of them lately, (though I know you suffer); and secondly; though I hope you already know your emails are appreciated, I feel I ought to say that your letters inspire me to think of things I’d like to do in my garden and remind my of things that must be done. They also never let me forget that your’s is my favorite nursery! And, though I get tons of emails from other interesting businesses and entertainments, yours is the one email that I never let go unread. There is, often enough, some choice bit of information that I would hate to have missed along with great offers as well. Thanks for all of your efforts.. on the computer and in the soil!

Sincerely,

Laura HirshmanDate: Mon, 18 Dec 2006 18:09:21 -0500 Download Re: Holiday freebie!.msg
From: "helen thomas"
To: <info@funkes.com>
Subject: Re: Holiday freebie! All headers
All attachments
AL, You and your extended family have always made my trips a pleasurable experience. It is refreshing to be able to ask a question and know the person you are speaking with is more than qualified to answer. I was a small business owner for over 16 years in downtown Cincinnati and I know the sacrifices you make to remain open and be competitive. I'm sure there are times you wonder if it is all worth it, but take it from one of your loyal customers, You are appreciated!!! I wish the best for you and your family and look forward to seeing you on my next trip.
Happy Holidays and may the New Year bring only good things to you!!

Helen Thomas
Greenhiils, Oh

Date: Thu, 28 Dec 2006 06:09:41 -0800 (PST) Download Re: Happy new year :).msg
From: Patty Dierker
To: info@funkes.com
Subject: Re: Happy new year :) All headers
All attachments
Al,

I LOVE your rants! So refreshing in these days of so much political correctness. "Git er done".

Patty

Date: Mon, 26 Feb 2007 07:29:14 -0500 Download RE: Welcome Sunshine!.msg
From: "Peg Jervis"
To: <info@funkes.com>
Subject: RE: Welcome Sunshine! All headers
All attachments
Beautifully written, I wish I could have said this, well done and a joy to read. Anxious for Spring and the unfolding of nature. peg Jervis

Date: Sat, 24 Feb 2007 21:15:01 EST Download Re: Welcome Sunshine!.msg

To: info@funkes.com
Subject: Re: Welcome Sunshine! All headers
All attachments
HI Al...

Marty Lamb here..

Had a real hard day today Sat.. and now it is evening and after reading your email.. I have found some peace in my soul.. thanks so much for you words tonite.. made me stop to appreaciate my day and my feelings.. wonderful way to help me put things in perspective.. thanks again..

Date: Tue, 13 Mar 2007 18:17:41 -0400 Download witch hazel.msg
From: "Julie Schlesselman"
To: <info@funkes.com>
Subject: witch hazel All headers
All attachments
Hi Al.
WOW! What a welcomed site - the beautiful little Witch Hazel shrub I bought from you last fall - during your sale - opened this past weekend and is simply outstanding! I have never seen so many flowers on one Witch Hazel before. Thanks for the great plants and bargains. I look forward to the new planting season.
Julie

Julie Schlesselman
Whitewater Valley Community Library District

Date: Tue, 10 Apr 2007 23:07:53 -0400 Download Fountains etc.msg
From: Leigh Gaines
Subject: Fountains etc All headers
All attachments
Hey Al,

Just wanted to drop you a note about that funky (pardon the pun) fountain we bought from you a few weeks back. We absolutely love it. It makes a lovely sound that offers a quiet backdrop to the usual neighborhood noise and is really relaxing.
Thanks again. I also enjoy your global musings about the state of affairs on this planet. It ain't pretty to say the least. But gardening is one outlet that keeps one from going completely nuts. We always try to shop with small businesses. Hang in there. We'll try to spread the word as best we can.

David and Leigh Gaines, Finneytown

Date: Wed, 11 Apr 2007 09:26:29 -0400 Download Re: back to "normal"?.msg
From: "Patricia Cordes"
Subject: Re: back to "normal"? All headers
All attachments
Al, I just love your emails ... they're so well written and so carefully thought out. Of course, it doesn't hurt that I agree with everything you say. :)

Flower power to us all! Pat Cordes

Date: Sun, 15 Apr 2007 17:29:15 -0400
To: info@funkes.com
Subject: Re: e-mail specials & a kitty story :) All headers

Dear Al,
I don't think we have met but I have to tell you that reading your
emails is better than going to any formal service. I love the way you
share your wisdom with all of us. Thank you for being so open and
giving with your thoughts. I appreciate the time it takes to jot down
your ideas. You are definitely a ripple on the pond adding to that
wave in the ocean.

Thank you.

Barb Hammel

Date: Tue, 24 Apr 2007 06:55:53 -0700 (PDT) Download Re: Container vegetables.msg
From: Lora Sweeney
To: info@funkes.com
Subject: Re: Container vegetables All headers
All attachments
Just a note to say I love your newsletters! I learn a lot from them & some I can use - gettin' to old to do extended stuff anymore. your stock is so much better than other stores - including some of the hi price spread guys. Funke's is where I buy!

Al,
Thanks for taking the time to reply. Just read your email on container gardening. My mother who is 87 has been having trouble getting to her garden the past few years to keep it watered. I've been thinking about putting her tomatoes in pots and you convinced me to try it this year. Loved the idea of two different tomato types in the same container and the use of a deep layer of mulch to hold the moisture in.
Keep your emails coming, I love them.
Kris :)

Date: Wed, 9 May 2007 23:29:29 -0400 Download Re: Mother's day e-mail specials :).msg

To: info@funkes.com
Subject: Re: Mother's day e-mail specials :) All headers

Hi Al,

I read your emails, if I read them at all, as the last e-mail of the day. They mostly make me smile. I forward them to my mother in California. Ramblings of the horticultural philosopher, I call them, but so much of the time you're dead on right. Thanks for taking the time to communicate with us. I enjoy the time I take to read them.

Your faithful customer,
Lisa

Date: Wed, 16 May 2007 23:26:32 -0400 Download Glowing testimonial.msg

To: info@funkes.com
Subject: Glowing testimonial All headers

Dear Garden Pal Al ---

In your newsletters, you have 'warned' of growth inhibitors used by the plant suppliers to big box stores, which Funke's doesn't use. This past Friday, I drove over and picked up a flat of beautiful mixed impatiens at a fabulous price --- dirt cheap in fact! Saturday, I planted them beneath & around a fountain/birdbath where, by Tuesday morning, flowers were opening and the plants showing obvious, sturdy growth. What a joy!

Thanx for staying stubborn and true to what you know! How rare and wonderful.

You may sign me "Roots Woman"
But you know me as ...

deb

Date: Thu, 17 May 2007 17:41:06 -0700 (PDT) Download Re: Fun Stuff :).msg
From: wanda jones
To: info@funkes.com
Subject: Re: Fun Stuff :) All headers
All attachments
thank you al. i shopped with you a few weeks ago as i was in the market for fruit trees and grape vines. i initially stopped at the nursery up the street but all of the workers were too busy to help me. when i asked about their fruit trees one worker pointed and said, "some are over there and there might be some outside." i decided to try and find a place that put customer service a priority. when i stopped at your business, i told the woman at the front desk what i was in the market for. she immediately radioed for someone to assist me. in less than 45 seconds, a man met me, took me to the area and showed me what you had. he did not point and say "they're over there". he was helpful in answering my questions, he loaded my trees and grapevines into my car and reserved my spot in line (you had become very crowded). i will definitely patronized your business again. thank you for the service.
wanda jones

Date: Wed, 30 May 2007 12:46:25 -0400 Download dutchman's pipe.msg
From: "Julie Schlesselman"
To: <info@funkes.com>
Subject: dutchman's pipe All headers
All attachments
Hey Al!
I just had to share my enthusiasm - not many people would understand but plant lovers will!
Remember the line from the movie "Build it and they will come" - well PLANT IT AND THEY WILL COME! Last year I bought four wonderful Dutchman's Pipes (pipevines) from you, because that is the only food that a Pipevine caterpillar can eat, and I wanted Pipevine Swallowtail butterflies to visit my garden. Well the little vines were doing spectacular until that stretch of awful weather in the beginning of April - the cold and frost knocked them back to the base. Slowly and surely they have been recuperating and I checked on them again today and to my surprise and amazement I found at least a half dozen little Pipevine Swallowtail caterpillars munching away on the vines of one plant. I can't wait to see how many are on the other three vines. I have attached two photos of the little guys.
Needless to say I am a "Funke Junkie"! Where else would I have gotten these plants - plus all of the milkweed you offered last year! Thanks for everything - great plants - great specials - and great architectural yard art!
Julie

Julie Schlesselman
Genealogy and Local History Division
Whitewater Valley Community Library District

Date: Wed, 6 Jun 2007 14:11:24 -0700 (PDT) Download Re: New Website.msg
From: Fay Barry
To: info@funkes.com
Subject: Re: New Website All headers
All attachments
What a Gorgeous website. You have been very busy. Love your emails and info is quite helpful. We look forward to getting all your helpful information. Even though we are on the other side of town , we come quite often and always enjoy it at the store. Keep up the great work. Thanks.

Sent: Thu, 7 Jun 2007 10:01:28 -0400
Subject: RE: Ancient ruins price update

> My sister lives in a suburb of Memphis Tennessee but this is home so I always share your e-mails. I forwarded your info to her regarding the ruins and she is very much interested in having me purchase a chimney pot for her and bring it down (good excuse to visit). Would you tell me the price range on your chimney pots? She’s been looking for a long time without much luck – yours are exactly what she’s been looking for. Thanks for your response and awesome website!! Love the e-mails – keep em coming!
>
>
> Susan J. Hale
> Academic Specialist
> Biological Sciences Department

Date: Sun, 24 Jun 2007 13:43:43 -0400 Download your refreshing perspective.msg

To: info@funkes.com
Subject: your refreshing perspective All headers

Hi!
I am a new customer of your business; I live in Delhi so don't get to
your area very often. However, my mother Marcy supported your business
(and philosophy) for years. She now rests in Springrove Cemetery, and
after spending time there one morning I stopped by, looking for
strawberry plants. I'd been to several other places and found none. You
had them! I signed up for your emails because I'm very interested in the
architectural treasures you occasionally get in.
I was very pleasantly surprised to see your philosophy about supporting
the smaller businesses so candidly stated. We own Clifton Natural foods,
and my husband Bob and I give a similar speech to anyone open to it. The
_best_ way we can all have our voices heard about the damage these huge
corporations are doing is with our dollars. I am appalled at the reasons
people give as justification for shopping at places like WalMart; it's
usually a price issue. I'd rather pay more and support a family. You've
got a new customer in Delhi!
Sincerely,
Aline

Date: Mon, 25 Jun 2007 09:22:53 -0400 Download Re: Bloomin' new coneflowers!.msg

To: <info@funkes.com>
Subject: Re: Bloomin' new coneflowers! All headers
All attachments
Thanks for the heads up on the Walmart HM Depot, and etc. devastation project.

They are also affecting other areas of our life as they scheme to raise their bottom line. No matter what the results are. Sam Walton would roll over in his grave, I believe.

From: Kate Mungur
To: info@funkes.com
Sent: Wed, 15 Aug 2007 12:26:50 -0700 (PDT)
Subject: Re: August gardening & specails part 3

> Hello Al,
>
> I just wanted to let you know how much I'm enjoying your emails - and I did take advantage of your rose special a few weeks back and bought several bushes, 2 of which have already given me new blooms.
> Thanks for the thoughtfulness you put into your emails and into your business. I'll look forward to hearing what you have to say on growing medicinal plants. It's an interest of mine that I would like to better explore.
>
> Take care,
> Kate

Date: Wed, 12 Sep 2007 08:53:37 -0400 Download Thanks!.msg
From: Marlene Hardman
To: Al Funke <info@funkes.com>
Subject: Thanks! All headers

Hi Al,

Cincinnati has needed an outdoor gardening event weekend for "real
gardeners". I can see Funke's event getting bigger each hear. It
was FUN to linger among plants, artists, and in an "old
greenhouse" (my favorite kind).

Gratefully,

Marlene

Date: Wed, 12 Dec 2007 17:24:49 EST Download Re: 8" pot poinsettia special!.msg
From:
To: info@funkes.com
Subject: Re: 8" pot poinsettia special! All headers
All attachments
Thanks for great photos.They sure help to visualize your arts and craft show this past weekend plus all the beautiful poinsettias,Christmas trees herbs and all. Grandson helped grandma pick out just the right Frazer Fir Christmas tree this Tuesday. Your workers cut off the end, bound it up, and got it roped in the trunk for traveling home.Soaked it in water and got it put up with grandson's help. It is looking great. I appreciate your crew's helpfulness and the quality of anything I have purchased at your garden store.

Mary Lou

Date: Mon, 31 Mar 2008 11:59:13 -0400 Download Re: New life awaits!.msg
From: "Anne Sunyak"
To: <info@funkes.com>
Subject: Re: New life awaits! All headers

I would like to send a heartfelt thank you for your correspondences that you send out. Not only are you an awesome scribe, your info and thoughts make a fascinating read.

Anne Sunyak
Clinical Research Coordinator
Infectious Disease
Cincinnati Children's Medical Center

Date: Mon, 28 Apr 2008 11:12:11 -0400 Download Thanks!!.msg
From: "Julie Schlesselman"
To: "Funke's Greenhouse" <info@funkes.com>
Subject: Thanks!!
Hey Al -
just a quick thank you for the beautiful early season plants!

My neighbors don't understand why my pansies are soooooo much bigger and full of more blooms and outstanding color than theirs. I then have to proceed to tell them that mine did not come from Cheapo Depot. With your email pansy special of last week, I came down this past Saturday and bought two more flats - when I got home and planted the "monsters" they looked like they had been in the ground for weeks - they are huge and full of flowers - just gorgeous!!! Plus your variety of pansies are out of this world. Pansies are some of my favorite flowers, and I can't tell you enough how much I have enjoyed yours this spring. Thanks for a great start to the gardening season. A 30 mile drive to Funke's from Indiana is worth it for the quality items I get!
Thanks - Julie

Date: Wed, 4 Jun 2008 20:55:44 -0400 Download RE: wildflower id.msg
From: "Beth S. Warmuth"
To: <info@funkes.com>
Subject: RE: wildflower id All headers
All attachments
Hi Al,

You are awesome! I found it within a few minutes of checking one of your website suggestions - it is Baby Blue Eyes - or Nemophilia menziesii.

thank you, thank you!

I appreciate all you do and share with us! My flowers from your gardens are beautiful!

Thanks again!

Take care,
Beth

Date: Sat, 21 Jun 2008 00:06:46 -0400 Download Re: Gardening video page added!.msg
From: John Miller
To: info@funkes.com
Subject: Re: Gardening video page added! All headers

Al - 410 lineal feet of flower beds loaded with day lilies are living
proof that Al's nuggets work. Sell more nuggets!!

Date: Tue, 24 Jun 2008 15:58:26 -0400 Download Re: Gardening video page added!.msg
From: <sunny70
To: info@funkes.com
Subject: Re: Gardening video page added! All headers

Al,
I always enjoy your e-mails but the movie was very special. I'm looking forward to your flower shows. I don't have the back power to prepare beds. but I sure can plany flowers in my existiong beds.

Thanks so much for coming into my home with your GREAT sense of humor and your appreciationj of things beautiful.

Your Gardening buddy,

Sunny

Date: Fri, 25 Jul 2008 15:03:50 -0400 Download Re: New easy bed video now online + specials!.msg
From: <andrea
To: info@funkes.com
Subject: Re: New easy bed video now online + specials! All headers

---- Al Funke <info@funkes.com> wrote:
Wow this e-mail response was fast. Of all the green houses I have visited, I am most impressed with yours. Your staff is phenomenal, esp. Sarah. She was extremely helpful even though I didn't buy anything that day. I was back two days later and had another pleasant experience with an older woman who was working. I did make a purchase that day and will be back soon, as I will need lots of support through my first time landscaping experiences. I will also spread the word that your prices, selection, quality and customer service are outstanding! Thanks for the e-mail and have a great day.

Andrea ElAzzouzi
Satisfied Customer

Date: Sat, 26 Jul 2008 12:19:45 -0400 Download RE: New easy bed video now online + specials!.msg
From: MC Skirving
To: <info@funkes.com>
Subject: RE: New easy bed video now online + specials! All headers
All attachments
Hey Al-love the e-mails, haven't been able to visit due to surgery in June , restricted from gardening but i will be there soon and i am certainly looking forward to it-I'm so glad to hear someone else besides me say planting all summer long-I've always done it. again, thank you.

Date: Fri, 08 Aug 2008 07:59:15 -0400 Download Re: Your reply on natural substances.msg
From: Patricia

To: info@funkes.com
Subject: Re: Your reply on naural substances All headers
All attachments
Hey, Al!

Thanks for your great reply to the nurse whose sil died from illegal
drugs... exactly the right position!
I keep white willow bark around, and not tylenol.... and believe that
pot is a lot less dangerous than
alcohol..... in fact, my belief is thal the natural drugs should be
legal - and that no one should use them -
once you know you can get that high feeling - relaxed and comfy - from
meditation, there's no need to
get there with pot or anything else.....

but the synthsized drugs with their side effects.... and the deaths
each year from all those medications...
ugh!

Keep it up!

Patricia

From: "Barb Bunting"
Subject: RE: Great deals on fall clearance items! All headers
All attachments

Just wanted to thank you for all your informative e-mails; sharing your knowledge has made my gardening and landscaping efforts at home easier. I do enjoy hearing you go on about the small business man who gives not only good service, good prices, but good advice. Everything you say really hits home. I am very glad you decided to open for Christmas and hopefully, next season as well. I brag about your nursery and try and send as many customers as possible to your business whenever someone asks me about flowers and plants.

Thanks again for all the bargains and fun reading.

Barbara Bunting

College Hill resident and Hamilton County Park District employee.