Family business blooms in Roberts

By Sue Odegard

Tony and Lora James are up to their elbows in potting soil this month.

Their family-owned and operated James Landscaping and Garden Center recently opened and a grand opening is set for May 8-9.

"We couldn't do this without help from our family and friends," Tony said Friday. "We have 244 varieties of annuals and perennials."

Tony was born in Belle Plaine, Minn., where he graduated from high school in 1981. Lora Bakke grew up in River Falls. They met while attending Mankato State University in Mankato, Minn.

Tony graduated with a bachelor's degree in business in 1985. Lora followed a year later, earning a bachelor's degree in psychology. They've been married 10 years and have two children: Dylan, 7, and Abby, 3.

For the past 7 years, Tony has operated James Landscaping based in the River Falls area. He and Lora recently bought 15 acres and an established nursery at 534 N. Skyline Dr. It was formerly known as Cincotta Nursery.

In addition to the annuals and perennials, Tony and Lora are growing vines, ornamental grasses, vegetables, culinary and medicinal herbs. They also provide garden design services.

As a landscaper, Tony can build retaining walls, pour concrete, sod and seed lawns and plant flowers. He does Bobcat work, concrete repairs, and installs drain tile.

The couple is open for business from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays; 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., Saturdays; and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Sundays.

Tours will be offered during the grand opening weekend and drawings held.

To get there, take Hwy. 65 north from River Falls about 7 miles, turn right on CTH N, and right again on Skyline Drive. For more information, call 749-1710.