by Sophia W.G., 16
In the words of Ellen DeGeneres, “True beauty is not related to what color your hair is or what color your eyes are. True beauty is about who you are as a human being, your principles, your moral compass.”
Ellen Karcher is an example of what all good humans should be like. She is intellectual, down to earth, loving, and is a wholehearted environmentalist. (It just so happens she also has really cool hair and gorgeous eyes.)
Before Ellen was “The Lavender Lady,” as she is known today, she was born and raised in Sayreville, New Jersey. Ellen reflects on fond memories of growing up with her many cousins who all lived on the same street. She shares a personal anecdote about her grandfather, a proud patriot, who gathered his grandchildren daily in front of the big, old house down the shore to say The Pledge of Allegiance while saluting the flag each morning.
As she speaks about her childhood, her eyes sparkle with nostalgia. Her father and grandfather were her greatest inspirations to become the third generation New Jersey State Senator she became. After spending four fulfilling years surrounding herself in American politics, she discovered her newfound passion for lavender and soon dedicated her life to growing the enchanting herb.
As a humble humanist and an experienced politician, Ellen wishes the world would be a more empathetic place to live. She believes everyone should have the right to health care, education, and marriage equality. One thing she would change about the world is the United States of America’s president, “…Because no leader should govern their country by biased tweets.” She laughs. Ellen is passionate about having a positive impact on her community.
Recently, she held a political fundraiser for Michael Penna and Moria Nelson who are two Monmouth County Freeholder candidates.
But it all started at a family reunion in Sequim, Washington, “the Lavender Capital of North America.” Ellen was inspired to plant her own lavender. Two thousand lavender plants later, she sits smiling at the family business she has grown.
Matawan, New Jersey
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