club news log
Newsletter August 2026
Is it really August?
The calendar reads August but the sky and air have different ideas. I think the plants must be rather confused. Alas it must be August because we have been hard at work pulling the annual picnic at the boat house together. Look below for the details.
Our next trip is not until late September but Stonecrop requires a deposit this month to secure our private tour.Important Deadline: your RSVP and $15 must be received by August 15
Visit Stonecrop GardenThursday September 24, day tripCold Spring NY just 45 minutes from NyackContact Loretta Tito ASAP if you’d like to come on the trip.titoloretta@gmail.com 845-735-1208Your $15 covers entry and guided tour. The tour begins at 10:30am and lasts for 2 to 2-1/2 hrs. Stonecrop Gardens is one of our region’s gems. It was originally the private home of Anne and Frank Cabot.The gardens cover an area of approximately 15 acres and comprise a diverse collection of gardens and plants. We will see alpine plants, rock gardens, an unusual "floating greenhouse”, asters, salvias, etc. The dahlia display should be spectacular. And if we’re lucky, there may be plants for sale that day!Wear a hat, comfortable shoes with good traction like sneakers. There’s plenty of room for parking. Stonecrop is about 35 miles (45 minutes) from Nyack.You can bring lunch and eat there or go out to lunch in the nearby town of Cold SpLoretta will also talk to you about carpooling and has a list of restaurants you may want to try. Plus wonderful ice-cream at Moo-Moo’s Creamery!
Our next Event is:GCN Annual picnicAugust 25, Tuesday: 1:00 PMLocation: The Nyack Boat Club, 59 Gedney St Nyack Parking is along Gedney and side streets2026 Theme: Nautical + Semiquincentennial = red, white & blue Our annual picnic is a wonderful way to celebrate the summer and to socialize with members with beautiful views. Get to know each other better.We ask everyone to participate by bringing one of your favorite dishes. Lighter savory dishes and less desserts. Consider charcuterie, vegetable, fruit and light desserts. Of course your favorite dish would be wonderful. Beverages are welcome (wine/juice/seltzer...) to toast each other. - We will have a brief meeting to announce returning committee chairs and recruit members for vacant posts - Geraldine Shaw will be collecting annual dues of $45 during the picnic. Please bring cash (exact amount) or check made payable to The Garden Club of Nyack. If you have any questions, contact Geraldine Shaw at 845-641-2694 or gerishaw@hotmail.com.- Don't forget to bring some extra cash for the famous raffle. This year we have three prizes: a framed original photograph and two large gift baskets. Proceeds will go to a charity of our choice.So we can better coordinate the meal click the link below to fill out a very short form https://forms.gle/duWSVnXkFfEda1yb6Please respond no later than AUGUST 18, 2026
Upcoming Events:The real dirt on dirtSeptember 15, Tuesday: 1:00 PMLocation: Valley Cottage LibraryDr Deborah Aller of Cornell University will tell us everything we need to know to improve our gardening by improving our soil’s health.The more we garden, the more we realize what a difference good soil makes in the results we get. She will answer questions submitted by our members like what is ideal soil? What’s the difference between topsoil and what’s under it? How do you rejuvenate potting soil? This talk will be via Zoom, but members will have the opportunity to ask questions at the end.Hospitality: Paula Ferzola and Susan Paul; Facilitator: Ann Ellis
Tour Stonecrop GardenSeptember 24, Thursday: departure approx 9 AMsee details above
Braiding SweetgrassOctober 5, Monday, 1pmLocation: TBD Kathy Femiani introduces us to the work of Robin Wall Kimmerer. Members read this book - in part or whole - at their leisure and, in this meeting, we discuss the concepts presented and our reactions. Ms. Kimmerer is a Potawatomi botanist, Distinguished Teaching Professor at SUNY Syracuse, Founder and Director of the Center for Native Peoples and the Environment and a 2022 MacArthur Fellow. She braids together indigenous and scientific knowledge through stories, memoir, and humor in a poetic celebration of our reciprocal relationship with the natural world.Hospitality: Rosina Porco and Caroline O’Hanlon; Facilitator: Kathy Femiani
Notice:If you have a specific question please email a facilitator directly. If you have a general question, you may contact the co-presidents Kyra S; kyralive@rocketmail.com or Anna D; adell924@hotmail.com or the relevant officer, consult our program book for contact info .
Visit Stonecrop GardenThursday September 24, day tripCold Spring NY just 45 minutes from NyackContact Loretta Tito ASAP if you’d like to come on the trip.titoloretta@gmail.com 845-735-1208Your $15 covers entry and guided tour. The tour begins at 10:30am and lasts for 2 to 2-1/2 hrs. Stonecrop Gardens is one of our region’s gems. It was originally the private home of Anne and Frank Cabot.The gardens cover an area of approximately 15 acres and comprise a diverse collection of gardens and plants. We will see alpine plants, rock gardens, an unusual "floating greenhouse”, asters, salvias, etc. The dahlia display should be spectacular. And if we’re lucky, there may be plants for sale that day!Wear a hat, comfortable shoes with good traction like sneakers. There’s plenty of room for parking. Stonecrop is about 35 miles (45 minutes) from Nyack.You can bring lunch and eat there or go out to lunch in the nearby town of Cold SpLoretta will also talk to you about carpooling and has a list of restaurants you may want to try. Plus wonderful ice-cream at Moo-Moo’s Creamery!
Our next Event is:GCN Annual picnicAugust 25, Tuesday: 1:00 PMLocation: The Nyack Boat Club, 59 Gedney St Nyack Parking is along Gedney and side streets2026 Theme: Nautical + Semiquincentennial = red, white & blue Our annual picnic is a wonderful way to celebrate the summer and to socialize with members with beautiful views. Get to know each other better.We ask everyone to participate by bringing one of your favorite dishes. Lighter savory dishes and less desserts. Consider charcuterie, vegetable, fruit and light desserts. Of course your favorite dish would be wonderful. Beverages are welcome (wine/juice/seltzer...) to toast each other. - We will have a brief meeting to announce returning committee chairs and recruit members for vacant posts - Geraldine Shaw will be collecting annual dues of $45 during the picnic. Please bring cash (exact amount) or check made payable to The Garden Club of Nyack. If you have any questions, contact Geraldine Shaw at 845-641-2694 or gerishaw@hotmail.com.- Don't forget to bring some extra cash for the famous raffle. This year we have three prizes: a framed original photograph and two large gift baskets. Proceeds will go to a charity of our choice.So we can better coordinate the meal click the link below to fill out a very short form https://forms.gle/duWSVnXkFfEda1yb6Please respond no later than AUGUST 18, 2026
Upcoming Events:The real dirt on dirtSeptember 15, Tuesday: 1:00 PMLocation: Valley Cottage LibraryDr Deborah Aller of Cornell University will tell us everything we need to know to improve our gardening by improving our soil’s health.The more we garden, the more we realize what a difference good soil makes in the results we get. She will answer questions submitted by our members like what is ideal soil? What’s the difference between topsoil and what’s under it? How do you rejuvenate potting soil? This talk will be via Zoom, but members will have the opportunity to ask questions at the end.Hospitality: Paula Ferzola and Susan Paul; Facilitator: Ann Ellis
Tour Stonecrop GardenSeptember 24, Thursday: departure approx 9 AMsee details above
Braiding SweetgrassOctober 5, Monday, 1pmLocation: TBD Kathy Femiani introduces us to the work of Robin Wall Kimmerer. Members read this book - in part or whole - at their leisure and, in this meeting, we discuss the concepts presented and our reactions. Ms. Kimmerer is a Potawatomi botanist, Distinguished Teaching Professor at SUNY Syracuse, Founder and Director of the Center for Native Peoples and the Environment and a 2022 MacArthur Fellow. She braids together indigenous and scientific knowledge through stories, memoir, and humor in a poetic celebration of our reciprocal relationship with the natural world.Hospitality: Rosina Porco and Caroline O’Hanlon; Facilitator: Kathy Femiani
Notice:If you have a specific question please email a facilitator directly. If you have a general question, you may contact the co-presidents Kyra S; kyralive@rocketmail.com or Anna D; adell924@hotmail.com or the relevant officer, consult our program book for contact info .
Newsletter July 2026
Happy post Fourth of JulyI hope everyone enjoyed their holiday and stayed cool enough for the hot news and even hotter events coming this month and next!
News from The Butterfly GardenLots of blooms in the garden right now. The plants in the picture are a few years old and coming into their own. Also at its energetic zenith is the Bindweed. Cheryl found an interesting approach to the problem and one of the key facets was snapping it off at ground level just before it blooms. It makes sense that the plant would be weakened most at this time; the stems are so thick and juicy. Some of the vines are blooming - at least we need to pick the flowers - as a single mature plant can produce anywhere from 5-500 seeds that remain viable in the soil from 20-50 years. We need your help fighting the Bindweed Scourge and we need your help pulling grass from the Poppies.In the past you have been assigned a date to work in the Butterfly Garden but in 2026 there are no assignments - come when you choose - all members are expected to participate at least once per season. Workdays are every Monday from 9:00 -10:30. Sue Ridge, Bebb Stone, Marie Thorpe and Anne Bryant serve as coordinators and one of them (usually all four) are always there. On holidays and in rain, we don’t work. If you want to check, contact Bebb.
How about a Garden Hop at your houseOur program calendar is light during July and August as many people are out of town. But for those of us who are home it's a great time to invite club members to see what is happening in your front and backyards. Your garden doesn't have to be perfect to show it off. Sharing your progress; your successes and your flops, is a great way to help us all learn and to stimulate conversation. Aren't all gardens in a state of flux anyway. Make arrangements to show us your garden. Contact Jo Miller at 845-000 or 16pawsjoanne@gmail.com
Upcoming Events:Wave Hill Public Garden & Cultural CenterJuly 23, Thursday - day tripExploring a Regional Treasure. Wave Hill is an urban oasis sitting high above the Hudson River with sweeping views and intimate gardens. There are perennial beds, herb and dry gardens, an alpine house, a conservatory, woodland paths, aquatic and monocot gardens for our enjoyment. Come join us for a leisurely stroll through the gardens. This is a self guided visit and we can plan our time as we wish. Click here for garden info https://www.wavehill.org/discover/gardensAdmission to the gardens is $10.00 (6.00 for Seniors 65+) + Parking: approx $15, divided by the number of people in the car, please carpool + Lunch: Brown Bag at picnic tables or purchase in the cafe
Coming UP! Date: Thursday, August 13, 2026RIVER HOOK Garden HopTime 1:00pmAddress: 626 N Broadway, NyackHester Haring Cason Preserve which is 12 acres of public sanctuary purchased by the town of Nyack in 2018 and opened to the public in 2019. This was a former family estate and sheep farm. The Nyack Community Garden is now located at River Hook Save the Date: GCN Annual picnicAugust 25, Tuesday: 1:00 PMLocation: The Nyack Boat Club, 59 Gedney St NyackParking is along Gedney and side streets2026 Theme: Nautical + Semiquincentennial = red, white & blueA wonderful event for all members to enjoy the beautiful views and great conversation to help us know each other better.We ask everyone to participate by bringing one of their favorite dishes to share. We’re asking for more savory dishes and less desserts for a light affair. Consider charcuterie, fruits, vegetables, nuts, and anything else to keep it interesting. Beverages are welcome (wine/juice/seltzer...) to toast each other. *** We will have a brief meeting to announce returning committee chairs and recruit members for vacant posts (be on the lookout for a list of openings for your consideration)*** The membership committee will be collecting annual dues for 2027 which have remained at $45. Please bring cash or check. If you have any questions, contact Geraldine Shaw at 845-641-2696 or gerishaw@hotmail.com. FALL PROGRAMS:The real dirt on dirtSeptember 15, Tuesday: 9:00 AM
Stonecrop GardensSeptember 24, Thursday: day trip
More news:Driftwood, beautiful Driftwood
Members spotted this trellis at The Berkshire Botanical Garden on last month's overnight trip. We would like to build a similar one of driftwood in The Butterfly Garden. Driftwood contributions are needed - for the trellis and if not suitable for that - to share with Bob Stein for the pieces he is giving us.
Upcoming Events:Wave Hill Public Garden & Cultural CenterJuly 23, Thursday - day tripExploring a Regional Treasure. Wave Hill is an urban oasis sitting high above the Hudson River with sweeping views and intimate gardens. There are perennial beds, herb and dry gardens, an alpine house, a conservatory, woodland paths, aquatic and monocot gardens for our enjoyment. Come join us for a leisurely stroll through the gardens. This is a self guided visit and we can plan our time as we wish. Click here for garden info https://www.wavehill.org/discover/gardensAdmission to the gardens is $10.00 (6.00 for Seniors 65+) + Parking: approx $15, divided by the number of people in the car, please carpool + Lunch: Brown Bag at picnic tables or purchase in the cafe
Coming UP! Date: Thursday, August 13, 2026RIVER HOOK Garden HopTime 1:00pmAddress: 626 N Broadway, NyackHester Haring Cason Preserve which is 12 acres of public sanctuary purchased by the town of Nyack in 2018 and opened to the public in 2019. This was a former family estate and sheep farm. The Nyack Community Garden is now located at River Hook Save the Date: GCN Annual picnicAugust 25, Tuesday: 1:00 PMLocation: The Nyack Boat Club, 59 Gedney St NyackParking is along Gedney and side streets2026 Theme: Nautical + Semiquincentennial = red, white & blueA wonderful event for all members to enjoy the beautiful views and great conversation to help us know each other better.We ask everyone to participate by bringing one of their favorite dishes to share. We’re asking for more savory dishes and less desserts for a light affair. Consider charcuterie, fruits, vegetables, nuts, and anything else to keep it interesting. Beverages are welcome (wine/juice/seltzer...) to toast each other. *** We will have a brief meeting to announce returning committee chairs and recruit members for vacant posts (be on the lookout for a list of openings for your consideration)*** The membership committee will be collecting annual dues for 2027 which have remained at $45. Please bring cash or check. If you have any questions, contact Geraldine Shaw at 845-641-2696 or gerishaw@hotmail.com. FALL PROGRAMS:The real dirt on dirtSeptember 15, Tuesday: 9:00 AM
Stonecrop GardensSeptember 24, Thursday: day trip
More news:Driftwood, beautiful Driftwood
Members spotted this trellis at The Berkshire Botanical Garden on last month's overnight trip. We would like to build a similar one of driftwood in The Butterfly Garden. Driftwood contributions are needed - for the trellis and if not suitable for that - to share with Bob Stein for the pieces he is giving us.
Newsletter June 2026
Tuesday June 2, at 1 PM at Valley Cottage Library My Garden Revolution Carolle Huber, Landscape Architect Carolle Huber, landscape architect, shares with us how her gardening practices have evolved over twenty-five years from creating formal gardens for herself to creating habitat. With slides and stories, we’ll see her missteps and successes. We’ll hear ideas to help us support pollinators and birds, sequester carbon, manage water and create the thoughtful, ecologically-sound gardens our world so badly needs.
Mark your calendar for these upcoming eventsJuly 23, ThursdayDay trip to Wave Hill in the Bronx
August 25, TuesdayAnnual picnic at the Nyack Boat Club
Newsletter May 2026
What a wonderful success our plant sale was! The weather cooperated beautifully, and everyone came ready to work hard and enjoy the day together.A special thank you to Marie for kicking things off back in February with the publicity committee. Their hard work made sure the word got out and helped bring in a great crowd. Thank you as well to Jan for the beautiful handmade signs that guided visitors to our event.Our pricers and cashiers helped everything run smoothly and efficiently, making transactions easy and enjoyable for our customers.To all the members who helped set up tables on Friday, move in more than 700 plants, and arrange them so beautifully — thank you! It was a big job, and you handled it with smiles and enthusiasm. Our customers also enjoyed the baked goods and sweets. Thank you to everyone who contributed and helped Ellen with the sales she was initially worried about. Your efforts made a big difference.Cleanup was quick and easy thanks to everyone pitching in. We had the place spotless and were all able to head home before 4:30.
Just wow! This was our most successful plant sale yet, grossing over $4,000 — a tremendous accomplishment for our club. Proyecto Faro, our chosen charity, will certainly appreciate the generous support we are able to provide through this donation.
Last but not least, a big thank you to Sandy who put blood, sweat and tears into making sure everything was efficiently executed. Big hug Sandy.Once again, thank you all for your hard work, teamwork, and dedication. Events like this are only possible because of each and every one of you.In gratitude,GCN Officers
Just wow! This was our most successful plant sale yet, grossing over $4,000 — a tremendous accomplishment for our club. Proyecto Faro, our chosen charity, will certainly appreciate the generous support we are able to provide through this donation.
Last but not least, a big thank you to Sandy who put blood, sweat and tears into making sure everything was efficiently executed. Big hug Sandy.Once again, thank you all for your hard work, teamwork, and dedication. Events like this are only possible because of each and every one of you.In gratitude,GCN Officers
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We were cordially invited to the butterfly garden in Memorial Park on Sunday, May 3, at 2:00 PM for the dedication of the Betty Perry memorial plaque. It was a special occasion as we honored Betty’s memory and contributions to our community. We were pleased to share that members of her family joined us for the ceremony.Best regards,Officers Garden Club of Nyack
Newsletter April 2026
Good morning, gardeners!It's April 3 so no practical jokes here - just good news and lots of it!
PLANT SALE!From our plant sale coordinators Sandy and AnnaAs we prepare for our upcoming plant sale, please remember to complete and submit your participation form as soon as possible so we can plan accordingly. Click here to access the form https://forms.gle/vKXS9sa1MzRUqicb6We also encourage everyone to begin potting up plants at least 3-4 weeks in advance of the sale. This gives your plants time to establish themselves in their containers, acclimate, and look their best for buyers.Healthy, well-rooted plants make all the difference-thank you for helping make our sale a success!
The Publicity Committee has provided this year's flyer as a JPEG and a PDF. You can print your own to post, or attach the image to your social media. We'll have printed flyers available for members distribution at the April meetings. Flyers are at the bottom of the April 2 email. - - - - - - - - - - Upcoming Events: A Garden Through Time. April 14, Tuesday at 1:00 PMLocation: Blauvelt LibraryGardens teach us all kinds of things; one of the most important lessons, things change. Our Butterfly Garden in Memorial Park exemplifies this beautifully. Hear about how it all began. See how different it is now and imagine what it could be. Anne Bryant has scoured the archives and Florences Katzenstein’s memory for pictures and stories. Included in the presentation will be information on weed identification and eradication as well as native plantings and the insect life they support as seen in the Butterfly Garden.Hospitality: Rebecca Finnell and Anya TaylorFacilitator: Anne Bryant Celebrate Earth Day in the Butterfly Garden. April 22, Wednesday at 10:00 AM Rain Date: Friday April 24Location: Memorial Park, NyackHelp us open the season with a special celebration in the Butterfly Garden. The garden has been our gift to the community for over twenty years. Its maintenance is a requirement of membership; come see what you can do. Bring an annual to plant, socialize with other members, and help plan the future of this little garden on the Hudson.Facilitators: Sue Ridge, Bebb Stone, Marie Thorpe, Anne Bryant
Tulip Paradise. April 28, Tuesday, Rain Date: April 30,ThursdayLocation: Holland Ridge Farms, 108 Rues Road, Cream Ridge, New JerseyCarpools meet at the Commuter Parking Lot, southwest corner, Section J58 at the Palisades Mall (opposite Home Depot)Join us for a breathtaking spring adventure at Holland Ridge Farms, where tulip fields stretch as far as the eye can see. Awaiting us are over8 million tulips in 100 varieties - a rainbow of color. There is a hayride shuttle to explore the farm with ease and, for the more athletically inclined, a 100-foot iconic windmill for panoramic views. If you can’t make it to Holland this year, this trip is the next best thing.Ticket price is $17-20 depending on the size of our group and will be purchased in advance of the trip. Brown bag Lunch suggested. There are also food trucks and the bakery.Please contact Jill if you are interested in going to see the tulips and if you are available to drive. Jill will be coordinating ticket and carpooling.Facilitator: Jill Drocea, jilldro@gmail.com - - - - - - - - - -
Save the Date: PLANT SALE!
Drop off plants for saleMay 15, Friday: 9:30 – 4 PM
Plant Sale DayMay 16, Saturday: 9 – 3 PM Members. 10 – 2 PM Open to the Public
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My Garden Revolution - June 2, Tuesday, Time: 1 PM, Location TBDCarolle Huber, a landscape architect shares with us how her gardening practices.
The Publicity Committee has provided this year's flyer as a JPEG and a PDF. You can print your own to post, or attach the image to your social media. We'll have printed flyers available for members distribution at the April meetings. Flyers are at the bottom of the April 2 email. - - - - - - - - - - Upcoming Events: A Garden Through Time. April 14, Tuesday at 1:00 PMLocation: Blauvelt LibraryGardens teach us all kinds of things; one of the most important lessons, things change. Our Butterfly Garden in Memorial Park exemplifies this beautifully. Hear about how it all began. See how different it is now and imagine what it could be. Anne Bryant has scoured the archives and Florences Katzenstein’s memory for pictures and stories. Included in the presentation will be information on weed identification and eradication as well as native plantings and the insect life they support as seen in the Butterfly Garden.Hospitality: Rebecca Finnell and Anya TaylorFacilitator: Anne Bryant Celebrate Earth Day in the Butterfly Garden. April 22, Wednesday at 10:00 AM Rain Date: Friday April 24Location: Memorial Park, NyackHelp us open the season with a special celebration in the Butterfly Garden. The garden has been our gift to the community for over twenty years. Its maintenance is a requirement of membership; come see what you can do. Bring an annual to plant, socialize with other members, and help plan the future of this little garden on the Hudson.Facilitators: Sue Ridge, Bebb Stone, Marie Thorpe, Anne Bryant
Tulip Paradise. April 28, Tuesday, Rain Date: April 30,ThursdayLocation: Holland Ridge Farms, 108 Rues Road, Cream Ridge, New JerseyCarpools meet at the Commuter Parking Lot, southwest corner, Section J58 at the Palisades Mall (opposite Home Depot)Join us for a breathtaking spring adventure at Holland Ridge Farms, where tulip fields stretch as far as the eye can see. Awaiting us are over8 million tulips in 100 varieties - a rainbow of color. There is a hayride shuttle to explore the farm with ease and, for the more athletically inclined, a 100-foot iconic windmill for panoramic views. If you can’t make it to Holland this year, this trip is the next best thing.Ticket price is $17-20 depending on the size of our group and will be purchased in advance of the trip. Brown bag Lunch suggested. There are also food trucks and the bakery.Please contact Jill if you are interested in going to see the tulips and if you are available to drive. Jill will be coordinating ticket and carpooling.Facilitator: Jill Drocea, jilldro@gmail.com - - - - - - - - - -
Save the Date: PLANT SALE!
Drop off plants for saleMay 15, Friday: 9:30 – 4 PM
Plant Sale DayMay 16, Saturday: 9 – 3 PM Members. 10 – 2 PM Open to the Public
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My Garden Revolution - June 2, Tuesday, Time: 1 PM, Location TBDCarolle Huber, a landscape architect shares with us how her gardening practices.
Newsletter March 2026
Hooray – we’ve been waiting one year for this important talk on WATER with an excellent speaker. I hope everyone can attend.
March 12, Thursday, 1 PM, Valley Cottage LibraryClean Above Means Clean Below with Jen Zunio-Smith, CCE Environmental Educator and Manager of the Stormwater Consortium of Rockland County. Learn how gardening practices impact the health of our local waterways and marine life. Excess nutrients from fertilizer, sediment, grass and leaf clippings create extra phosphorus in our water, leading to algae and harmful algae blooms. She will discuss where blooms have been confirmed, how our lawns and fertilizer use impact surface water, and what we can do to minimize our impact. The treatment process cannot remove all pollutants, therefore what enters our local waters is ultimately what we drink.Hospitality: Susan Spiller and Lorna Kervin-SmithFacilitator: Ann EllisThis is open to the public in the Valley Cottage. The library has asked everyone to register. Please follow this link https://valleycottage.librarycalendar.com/event/clean-above-means-clean-below-28954
The Winner of the Overnight Trip Questionnaire is…Berkshire Botanical Garden, Stockbridge, MA, 2.25 hr drivehttps://www.berkshirebotanical.org/
We had nearly 2 dozen members respond to the questionnaire. Even if you did not respond, but are still interested in an overnight trip please contact Marialice 845-548-9688
Mark your calendar for our April programs:April 15, Wednesday, 1 PM, TBD LibraryA Garden Through TimeLearn the history of our Butterfly Garden in Memorial Park; how it all began, the changes over the years, and our vision for the future.
April 22, Wednesday, 10 AM (rain date: Friday, April 24)Celebrate Earth DayAt our Butterfly Garden in Memorial Park, Nyack
April 28, Tuesday (rain date: Thursday April 30)Our first day trip of the seasonTulip Paradise. Join us for a breathtaking spring adventure at Holland Ridge Farms in Freehold NJ - where tulip fields stretch as far as the eye can see.
March 12, Thursday, 1 PM, Valley Cottage LibraryClean Above Means Clean Below with Jen Zunio-Smith, CCE Environmental Educator and Manager of the Stormwater Consortium of Rockland County. Learn how gardening practices impact the health of our local waterways and marine life. Excess nutrients from fertilizer, sediment, grass and leaf clippings create extra phosphorus in our water, leading to algae and harmful algae blooms. She will discuss where blooms have been confirmed, how our lawns and fertilizer use impact surface water, and what we can do to minimize our impact. The treatment process cannot remove all pollutants, therefore what enters our local waters is ultimately what we drink.Hospitality: Susan Spiller and Lorna Kervin-SmithFacilitator: Ann EllisThis is open to the public in the Valley Cottage. The library has asked everyone to register. Please follow this link https://valleycottage.librarycalendar.com/event/clean-above-means-clean-below-28954
The Winner of the Overnight Trip Questionnaire is…Berkshire Botanical Garden, Stockbridge, MA, 2.25 hr drivehttps://www.berkshirebotanical.org/
We had nearly 2 dozen members respond to the questionnaire. Even if you did not respond, but are still interested in an overnight trip please contact Marialice 845-548-9688
Mark your calendar for our April programs:April 15, Wednesday, 1 PM, TBD LibraryA Garden Through TimeLearn the history of our Butterfly Garden in Memorial Park; how it all began, the changes over the years, and our vision for the future.
April 22, Wednesday, 10 AM (rain date: Friday, April 24)Celebrate Earth DayAt our Butterfly Garden in Memorial Park, Nyack
April 28, Tuesday (rain date: Thursday April 30)Our first day trip of the seasonTulip Paradise. Join us for a breathtaking spring adventure at Holland Ridge Farms in Freehold NJ - where tulip fields stretch as far as the eye can see.
Newsletter February 2026
Hello Members
Feb. 11: Upright for Life with Physical Therapist, Ed Kalotkin What a wonderful presentation we had last week. Thank you Anne B for setting it up. And what a big turnout we had.
We had a short discussion about organizing an overnight trip in the late spring...after the plant sale. I promised to send out links to the 3 gardens we are considering:1) Chanticleer in Wayne PA, outside of Philadelphia, 2.25 hr drivehttps://www.chanticleergarden.org/ 2) Madoo Conservancy, Sagaponack, NY 2.25 hr drivehttps://madoo.org/ 3) Berkshire Botanical Garden, Stockbridge, MA, 2.25 hr drivehttps://www.berkshirebotanical.org/
Please fill out the overnight trip questionnaire. It is very short. We'd appreciate your response even if you do not plan to go! Polling will end Monday 2/23 at noon. click here for The Overnight Trip Questionnaire Notes on our March program: Stormwater - clean above means clean below Clean Above Means Clean Below with Jen Zinio-Smith, CCE Environmental Educator and Manager of the Stormwater Consortium of Rockland County Thursday, March 12, 1:00 - 2:30 PM at The Valley Cottage Library 110 NY-303 ,Valley Cottage, NY Learn how gardening practices impact the health of our local waterways and marine life. Excess nutrients from fertilizer, sediment, grass and leaf clippings create extra phosphorus in our water, leading to algae and harmful algae blooms. She will discuss where blooms have been confirmed, how our lawns and fertilizer use impact surface water, and what we can do to minimize our impact. The treatment process cannot remove all pollutants. Therefore what enters our local waters is ultimately what we drink.This important presentation is open to the public and the library has asked club members to register. Follow the link below.Registration is required. Click Here.
Feb. 11: Upright for Life with Physical Therapist, Ed Kalotkin What a wonderful presentation we had last week. Thank you Anne B for setting it up. And what a big turnout we had.
We had a short discussion about organizing an overnight trip in the late spring...after the plant sale. I promised to send out links to the 3 gardens we are considering:1) Chanticleer in Wayne PA, outside of Philadelphia, 2.25 hr drivehttps://www.chanticleergarden.org/ 2) Madoo Conservancy, Sagaponack, NY 2.25 hr drivehttps://madoo.org/ 3) Berkshire Botanical Garden, Stockbridge, MA, 2.25 hr drivehttps://www.berkshirebotanical.org/
Please fill out the overnight trip questionnaire. It is very short. We'd appreciate your response even if you do not plan to go! Polling will end Monday 2/23 at noon. click here for The Overnight Trip Questionnaire Notes on our March program: Stormwater - clean above means clean below Clean Above Means Clean Below with Jen Zinio-Smith, CCE Environmental Educator and Manager of the Stormwater Consortium of Rockland County Thursday, March 12, 1:00 - 2:30 PM at The Valley Cottage Library 110 NY-303 ,Valley Cottage, NY Learn how gardening practices impact the health of our local waterways and marine life. Excess nutrients from fertilizer, sediment, grass and leaf clippings create extra phosphorus in our water, leading to algae and harmful algae blooms. She will discuss where blooms have been confirmed, how our lawns and fertilizer use impact surface water, and what we can do to minimize our impact. The treatment process cannot remove all pollutants. Therefore what enters our local waters is ultimately what we drink.This important presentation is open to the public and the library has asked club members to register. Follow the link below.Registration is required. Click Here.
Newsletter January 2026
Welcome to 2026 everyone!
We have a lot of great programs set for this year. If you want your 2026 Program Book hot off the press come to Soup's On. It has become tradition to begin our year with this heart and tummy warming social event to brighten a winter's day. In addition to handing out program books, we will have some short reports highlighting the accomplishments of our committees last year and teasers for what is to come in 2026. - Kyra
Soup's OnTuesday, January 20 - 1:00 pm@ Linda Levin's home
There is only room for 6 pots of soup so think fast and contact Jan to win a spot on the stove.We also need appetizers, bread, desserts and beverages both soft and spirited. The hospitality committee will provide the paper goods, tea and coffee as usual.Please contact Jan and let her know what you plan to bring. If we have too much of one she might just ask you to bring the other! Jan Housewerth 845-304-4168 PLUS: We have a date, so mark your February calendar:
Upright for Life with Physical Therapist, Ed KalotkinWednesday, February 11, 1:00 pm@ Blauvelt Free Library541 Western Hwy S, BlauveltFacilitator: Anne BryantEd has a doctorate in physical therapy from Columbia, extensive post doctoral training, and a thriving practice in Palisades. Gardening can be dangerous. Ed will show us best practices for lifting, bending, and maintaining balance. And what to do about it when things go wrong. It’s an important topic and Ed is an engaging personality - you won’t want to miss it.
Additional notes:
Sue Ridge is recovering from a mastectomy. The cancer was a slow-growing one, detected early during a routine mammogram appointment. It is a reminder to all of us to keep medical screenings current.
The club donated $1,385.61 of holiday gifts for the families in the Safe House of The Center for Safety and Change. Imagine the joy for these women and their children. Many thanks to Janice Dime for making it all happen.
If you have questions about an event, please contact the facilitator as listed. You can always cc me at Kyralive@rocketmail.com or 917-609-6000
We have a lot of great programs set for this year. If you want your 2026 Program Book hot off the press come to Soup's On. It has become tradition to begin our year with this heart and tummy warming social event to brighten a winter's day. In addition to handing out program books, we will have some short reports highlighting the accomplishments of our committees last year and teasers for what is to come in 2026. - Kyra
Soup's OnTuesday, January 20 - 1:00 pm@ Linda Levin's home
There is only room for 6 pots of soup so think fast and contact Jan to win a spot on the stove.We also need appetizers, bread, desserts and beverages both soft and spirited. The hospitality committee will provide the paper goods, tea and coffee as usual.Please contact Jan and let her know what you plan to bring. If we have too much of one she might just ask you to bring the other! Jan Housewerth 845-304-4168 PLUS: We have a date, so mark your February calendar:
Upright for Life with Physical Therapist, Ed KalotkinWednesday, February 11, 1:00 pm@ Blauvelt Free Library541 Western Hwy S, BlauveltFacilitator: Anne BryantEd has a doctorate in physical therapy from Columbia, extensive post doctoral training, and a thriving practice in Palisades. Gardening can be dangerous. Ed will show us best practices for lifting, bending, and maintaining balance. And what to do about it when things go wrong. It’s an important topic and Ed is an engaging personality - you won’t want to miss it.
Additional notes:
Sue Ridge is recovering from a mastectomy. The cancer was a slow-growing one, detected early during a routine mammogram appointment. It is a reminder to all of us to keep medical screenings current.
The club donated $1,385.61 of holiday gifts for the families in the Safe House of The Center for Safety and Change. Imagine the joy for these women and their children. Many thanks to Janice Dime for making it all happen.
If you have questions about an event, please contact the facilitator as listed. You can always cc me at Kyralive@rocketmail.com or 917-609-6000
Newsletter December 2025
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HAPPY HOLIDAYS TO ALL, AND A BLOOMING NEW YEAR!
HOLIDAY PARTYThursday, December 11, 4:30. Anne Bryant’s House
The party is our closing-of-the-year event. Anne provides the site and everyone else the food and drink. This is a sit-down buffet dinner so we need to know how many tables and chairs are required. Please contact Jan ASAP. If on the morning of the 11th, you suddenly find you are able to attend, come! Try to call/text (845 548-7582), but - if at the last minute - you want to come, by all means, do.Parking is in the driveway for those who need it and on the street. There is not a streetlight at my corner so you might want to bring a flashlight.
NOVEMBER Recap and resources:
The meeting on hydroponics was on Nov. 18. Hydroponics (compared to traditional gardening) offers the opportunity to grow 30% more in the same amount of space, 3 times faster, and using 98% less water. You can make a do-it-yourself setup or there are systems that can be purchased. For more information, I am attaching our speaker’s handout.
Garden Therapy at the Nyack Ridge Rehabilitation and Nursing Center was a lovely success. Thanks to all members who contributed material for the baskets and special thanks to Linda and her cohorts. The activity was much appreciated by the residents. This is a service we have provided for over 30 years and hope to continue. Linda has provided the leadership for many years but would like to step down and train a successor. This is primarily a once-a-year commitment. https://gardenclubofnyack.com
Newsletter November 2025
UPCOMING EVENTS
GARDEN THERAPY. Wednesday, November 12, 2:00 set-up, 2:30 program. Nyack Ridge Rehabilitation and Nursing Center, 476 Christian Herald Road, Valley Cottage. Please note, the date has changed. With baskets and dried plant material, members assist residents in creating flower arrangements. Linda needs more dried plants and anything you think might look nice tucked into the small baskets. Contributions can be brought to the center at 2:00 or dropped off beforehand at Linda’s house. Linda needs a few participants to help clients but she definitely needs material for the baskets.Linda has coordinated this program for many years and would like to "retire." We have, as a club, provided this activity for over thirty years and is much appreciated by the facility. It would be a shame were garden therapy to end for lack of someone/s to take over. It is a once-a-year commitment. Come this year, take part, and see if this could be your contribution.
HYDROPONICS. Tuesday, November 18, 1:00, Valley Cottage Library. This event requires registration; click on the link: Valley Cottage Library Event Calendar. Donna Alese Cooke, a distance learning instructor for Cornell University, will teach us how to grow year-round with hydroponics and aeroponics. This presentation focuses on different soilless methods of growing herbs and vegetables, indoors and out, all year round.
SAVE THE DATE: The Holiday Party is Thursday, December 11, 4:30. Anne’s House: 54 Woodbine Rd., New City. PLEASE NOTE:Left at Florence’s house after the tea were: a tray, a coffee mug, sunglasses, and a white plate with flowers. Text Anne (845 548-7582) if you are missing one of these and we’ll figure out how to get it to you. MEMBERSHIP NEWS:Frieda Haring, a member for two decades, is leaving the county. She is moving to Connecticut to be closer to her daughter.
Lorna Smith-Kirven’s husband has, after a long period of ill-health, passed away. There will be a service for him on Saturday, November 8 at the New Hempstead Presbyterian Church, 484 New Hempstead Rd. When I get the time of the service, I will let you know.
The Center for Safety and Change is having a Secondhand Shopping Opportunity Saturday, November 8, 11:00-5:00 at The Angel Nyack, 48 Burd Street. All proceeds for Shop for Change benefit victims and survivors. At the October Tea we voted to direct our holiday giving to the mothers and children living in the Safehouse. Janice is exploring exactly how this will work and will report at the November 18 meeting.
A bus to the Philadelphia Flower show leaves from Midland Park, NJ on March 7th. A few of our members went last year and enjoyed it very much. Tickets will be available through Midland Park Community School starting January 1st. If you want more information, talk to Sandy. Remember to check out our Web Page. You all look very good in photos from the Annual Picnic. Thanks, Emily.
GARDEN THERAPY. Wednesday, November 12, 2:00 set-up, 2:30 program. Nyack Ridge Rehabilitation and Nursing Center, 476 Christian Herald Road, Valley Cottage. Please note, the date has changed. With baskets and dried plant material, members assist residents in creating flower arrangements. Linda needs more dried plants and anything you think might look nice tucked into the small baskets. Contributions can be brought to the center at 2:00 or dropped off beforehand at Linda’s house. Linda needs a few participants to help clients but she definitely needs material for the baskets.Linda has coordinated this program for many years and would like to "retire." We have, as a club, provided this activity for over thirty years and is much appreciated by the facility. It would be a shame were garden therapy to end for lack of someone/s to take over. It is a once-a-year commitment. Come this year, take part, and see if this could be your contribution.
HYDROPONICS. Tuesday, November 18, 1:00, Valley Cottage Library. This event requires registration; click on the link: Valley Cottage Library Event Calendar. Donna Alese Cooke, a distance learning instructor for Cornell University, will teach us how to grow year-round with hydroponics and aeroponics. This presentation focuses on different soilless methods of growing herbs and vegetables, indoors and out, all year round.
SAVE THE DATE: The Holiday Party is Thursday, December 11, 4:30. Anne’s House: 54 Woodbine Rd., New City. PLEASE NOTE:Left at Florence’s house after the tea were: a tray, a coffee mug, sunglasses, and a white plate with flowers. Text Anne (845 548-7582) if you are missing one of these and we’ll figure out how to get it to you. MEMBERSHIP NEWS:Frieda Haring, a member for two decades, is leaving the county. She is moving to Connecticut to be closer to her daughter.
Lorna Smith-Kirven’s husband has, after a long period of ill-health, passed away. There will be a service for him on Saturday, November 8 at the New Hempstead Presbyterian Church, 484 New Hempstead Rd. When I get the time of the service, I will let you know.
The Center for Safety and Change is having a Secondhand Shopping Opportunity Saturday, November 8, 11:00-5:00 at The Angel Nyack, 48 Burd Street. All proceeds for Shop for Change benefit victims and survivors. At the October Tea we voted to direct our holiday giving to the mothers and children living in the Safehouse. Janice is exploring exactly how this will work and will report at the November 18 meeting.
A bus to the Philadelphia Flower show leaves from Midland Park, NJ on March 7th. A few of our members went last year and enjoyed it very much. Tickets will be available through Midland Park Community School starting January 1st. If you want more information, talk to Sandy. Remember to check out our Web Page. You all look very good in photos from the Annual Picnic. Thanks, Emily.
Newsletter October 2025
ANNUAL MEMBERS TEA Florence Katzenstein’s house in Upper Nyack, 507 North Broadway, Tuesday, October 7, 1:00. Our predecessors poured tea from a silver pot into porcelain china cups. The club silver is stored in boxes, but tiny sandwiches and dainty cakes (furnished by you) are still the fare. This is a nod to the one hundred-and-thirteen-year history of the club and members were encouraged to wear hats (though most of them are funny ones) and bring your own china tea cup. Each of us brings (finger food) for 6-8 people. The village has allowed us to park on North Broadway, as in previous years. Our club meeting welcomed several new members, including two who joined that afternoon. We voted to use our Picnic Raffle proceeds and holiday donations to support families in residence at the Center for Safety and Change Safehouse. Janice Dime is going to work out details. During the rest of the meeting, Florence pointed out that when the club was founded in 1912, they met on this property. Her beautiful vertical gardens still slope precipitously from her fascinating home and its gorgeous autumnal hydrangeas down to the river. LEAVE THE LEAVES, our meeting on September 30 by Cheryl Duber, was so informative. We are living in a time of insect apocalypse that has occurred in our lifetime and our gardening practices make a difference. Rake or gently blow leaves into your garden beds (up to a 6” layer will allow plants to grow through in the spring). Commercial blowers can create a wind of 200 miles per hour - killing all its path - but small handheld blowers are okay. Shredding leaves, while providing fertilizer, also shred insects. Leave garden bed clean-up (if you have to do it at all) until spring. Stems are insect homes and the dead seedheads, nourishment for birds. It’s time to change our aesthetic of leafless lawns and tidy winter garden beds. Thanks Cheryl for a wonderful program. For more information on this important topic: https://xerces.org/leave-the-leaves Recap and things you should know:
Membership for 2026 must be done NOW. If you have not contacted Geraldine Shaw to do so, please, we implore you. We need your information to complete the booklet.
Garden Therapy (November 18) needs: small baskets ( ~9”-12”) with handles, dried flowers and grasses from your garden, anything you think might look nice tucked into the small baskets nursing home patients will create. We will begin collecting materials at the tea. After that time, contact Linda Levin. Baskets are especially important.
The New York Botanical Gardens have a program in November that you might want to keep in mind. Several members have expressed an interest in greenhouse tours at NYBG. The program committee looked into this but the cost was prohibitive. November 1-16 there will be public tours in the Nolan Greenhouses of Japanese chrysanthemums, or klku, that have been trained over the past 11 months into incredible shapes and styles. Times of tours are not yet posted. Look in a week or so for the November calendar.
Newsletter September 2025
AN INVITATION FROM PEGGY O.Three of Peggy’s photographs will be on display at the FALL FOR ART exhibit being held at the Blue Hill Art & Cultural Center at Blue Hill Plaza, 501 Veterans Memorial Drive, Pearl River, NY. A reception is being held on September 7, 2024 from 2 – 4 p.m. You are cordially invited to join us at the reception. The exhibit will be on display until March 8, 2024. Directions to Blue Hill Plaza:· Take Palisades Interstate Parkway to Exit 6W.· Continue onto Orangeburg Road.· Drive west for 2 miles.· Blue Hill Plaza is located opposite the Hilton Hotel.· Make a left into the entrance to Blue Hill. · Follow the sign for Visitors Parking by the pond.· ENJOY!
ALERT: SANGRIA’S MEXICANA RESTAURANT DEADLINEFitting in with this year’s theme, we plan to “Spice Up Your Life” by having a luncheon along with a chef’s demonstration at Sangria’s at 97 Route 303 in Congers. It is scheduled for Tuesday, September 24, at 12 noon! Now here is the alert!!! If you would like to attend you need to get a check for $25 to our treasurer, Carol P., by the deadline: Monday, September 16 !!!
LAVANDULA WITH MASTER GARDENER BRAD PARKEROn Monday, September 30 at 1 p.m. we will be meeting Master Gardener Brad Parker at the Haverstraw Main Library, 10 W. Ramapo Road also known as Route 202. Brad’s will be sharing his knowledge of lavender, which so many of us hold dear because of its beautiful scent and calming affects. Come to learn all there is to know about Lavandula, how easy it is to grow and its environmental benefits.
LAVANDULA WITH MASTER GARDENER BRAD PARKEROn Monday, September 30 at 1 p.m. we will be meeting Master Gardener Brad Parker at the Haverstraw Main Library, 10 W. Ramapo Road also known as Route 202. Brad’s will be sharing his knowledge of lavender, which so many of us hold dear because of its beautiful scent and calming affects. Come to learn all there is to know about Lavandula, how easy it is to grow and its environmental benefits.
Newsletter August 2025
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ANNUAL GCN PICNIC @ NYACK BOAT CLUBTuesday, August 27th, was a beautiful day for the GCN Picnic! The picnic was held as usual at the Nyack Boat Club, located on the river. Our Hospitality Committee set up tables for appetizers, entrees, desserts and drinks in the club room. Our members provided a wonderful assortment of all types of food and drink. Some members sat indoors on very comfy sofas, some chose to sit outdoors on the large terrace facing the river, and some chose to try out both locations.
POST PICNIC BUSINESS MEETINGDuring a brief business meeting members had the opportunity to hear a Treasurer’s Report delivered by our treasurer, Carol P., in addition to covering a few other topics. Members had voted in March to donate some of the money earned at the Plant Sale to The Center for Safety and Change. World Central Kitchen, which received two fewer votes, will receive the proceeds, a total of $305 from the raffle held during the picnic. Thanks to Loretta T. for organizing the raffling of three prizes, to Linda L. for donating her very beautiful watercolor painting, to Helga V.W. for knitting a beautiful rose-colored shawl, and a wooden cutting board with wooden serving bowl crafted by Michele T. !
PROGRAM BOOK 2025Our Program Committee has been working industriously on preparing a fascinating year of activities for us in 2025. Ann E., the Committee Chair spoke about a trip to Longwood Gardens in November 2024. If interested, please contact her. In addition, Sue R. spoke about a 2025 trip to Mt. Cuba and asked those interested to raise their hands and received quite a positive response. And lastly, if you would like to change your photograph in the Program Book, please consult our Program Book Chair, Ann K.
RECIPE COLLECTIONThink about it!!! Wouldn’t you say that many grand recipes were utilized for the picnic, for our holiday party, for Soup’s On? Sue R. has offered to collect all our recipes to form a digital GCN Recipe Book. Please e-mail any of the recipes you have or will be using for club functions. Let’s all be part of this creative process!
Newsletter July 2025
UPCOMING EVENTS:
Tuesday, July 15, 9:15 am. Trip to Wave Hill -- Rain Date July 17thWave Hill is an urban oasis sitting high above the Hudson River with sweeping views and intimate gardens. There are perennial beds, herb and dry gardens, an alpine house, a conservatory, woodland paths, aquatic and monocot gardens for our enjoyment. The estate includes two houses (the oldest section dating to 1843) and is on the National Register Of Historic Places. Come join us for a leisurely stroll through the gardens and lunch at the cafe. This is a self-guided visit and we can plan our time as we wish. Admission to the Gardens is $10.00 ($6.00 for seniors 65+) + Parking (approximately $15, divided by the number of people in the car) + Lunch. If you would like to go, email Janice Dime (janicedime@yahoo.com) by July 12.
Save the Date: Tuesday, August 19th for the Annual Picnic at the Nyack Boat Club
Recap and Miscellaneous:June was a busy month. We had a peaceful, sensory walk with Kyra at Kennedy Dell Park. We had three garden visits: Anna Dellefamine’s creative, artful garden, with the added bonus of a bonsai demonstration; Michael Naclerio’s beautiful yard complimented by his unparalleled ability to throw a party; and Florence Katzenstein’s mature garden, river view, and stories. And speaking of stories, Cultivating Joy, our bespoke “Horticulture Show” was great. There weren’t a lot of participants and everybody got to talk - what varied and interesting projects and people (and the refreshments were delicious!).
Opportunities to get involved: Every Monday (except when it’s raining) 9:00 to 10:30 in the Butterfly Garden. The more time you spend there, the more rewarding it becomes. This week a Monarch joined us. One of the mainstays of the garden, Sue Ridge, is scheduled for hip replacement. Now would be a good time to join the regulars.
We are beginning the process of developing next year’s theme and programs. Help us shape the club to meet your interests; join the program committee. It meets 3-5 times over the next few months. We are also in need of someone to head up the Program Committee. If you have topics you would like to know more about, know of speakers, have gardens you would like to visit, talk to Ann Ellis, Outgoing Chair, one of the presidents, or reply to this email. We want to know what you have liked in the past and want to see/do next year. Help! If you have not picked up the contact info of our new members, below are two attachments. The first has been available for awhile, the second attachment was available at our last meeting. There will be printed copies at future meetings.
Tuesday, July 15, 9:15 am. Trip to Wave Hill -- Rain Date July 17thWave Hill is an urban oasis sitting high above the Hudson River with sweeping views and intimate gardens. There are perennial beds, herb and dry gardens, an alpine house, a conservatory, woodland paths, aquatic and monocot gardens for our enjoyment. The estate includes two houses (the oldest section dating to 1843) and is on the National Register Of Historic Places. Come join us for a leisurely stroll through the gardens and lunch at the cafe. This is a self-guided visit and we can plan our time as we wish. Admission to the Gardens is $10.00 ($6.00 for seniors 65+) + Parking (approximately $15, divided by the number of people in the car) + Lunch. If you would like to go, email Janice Dime (janicedime@yahoo.com) by July 12.
Save the Date: Tuesday, August 19th for the Annual Picnic at the Nyack Boat Club
Recap and Miscellaneous:June was a busy month. We had a peaceful, sensory walk with Kyra at Kennedy Dell Park. We had three garden visits: Anna Dellefamine’s creative, artful garden, with the added bonus of a bonsai demonstration; Michael Naclerio’s beautiful yard complimented by his unparalleled ability to throw a party; and Florence Katzenstein’s mature garden, river view, and stories. And speaking of stories, Cultivating Joy, our bespoke “Horticulture Show” was great. There weren’t a lot of participants and everybody got to talk - what varied and interesting projects and people (and the refreshments were delicious!).
Opportunities to get involved: Every Monday (except when it’s raining) 9:00 to 10:30 in the Butterfly Garden. The more time you spend there, the more rewarding it becomes. This week a Monarch joined us. One of the mainstays of the garden, Sue Ridge, is scheduled for hip replacement. Now would be a good time to join the regulars.
We are beginning the process of developing next year’s theme and programs. Help us shape the club to meet your interests; join the program committee. It meets 3-5 times over the next few months. We are also in need of someone to head up the Program Committee. If you have topics you would like to know more about, know of speakers, have gardens you would like to visit, talk to Ann Ellis, Outgoing Chair, one of the presidents, or reply to this email. We want to know what you have liked in the past and want to see/do next year. Help! If you have not picked up the contact info of our new members, below are two attachments. The first has been available for awhile, the second attachment was available at our last meeting. There will be printed copies at future meetings.
Newsletter June 2025
Reminder: For all outdoor events, if the weather is questionable, be sure and check your email before leaving the house.
UPCOMING EVENTS:Garden Hop and Bonsai Demonstration. Thursday, June 5 11:00 - 1:00 Anna Dellafamine’s Garden, 40 Roosevelt Dr., Blauvelt. Rained out last week, we’ll try again. This is a beautiful garden with so much to see - formal in spots and whimsical in others. Anna does much of her own propagation and shares her experience. As an added bonus we will get a bonsai demonstration from Anna’s friend Bernie Schneider, who has been practicing bonsai for 20 years.
Shinrin-yoku (Forest Bathing): The Japanese wellness Rx of taking in the forest atmosphere … with your clothes on! Monday, June 9 1:00 pm, Kennedy Dells Park, New City Relax, unwind, and awaken your 5 senses to nature on a guided walk with Kyra. Stroll along the open fields, woods, pine grove and stream in a slow-paced walk with opportunities to pause and connect with the natural world. The benefits have proven to include reduced stress and blood pressure, a boost to immune functions, improved mood, creativity, focus, and sleep. The walk is about a mile over easy terrain. Please RSVP Kyra at 917-609-6000 (text preferred) by Friday 6/6. You will receive additional information such as exact parking/meet-up location as well as any updates if there is questionable weather.
Garden Club Mixer. Wednesday, June 18. 3:00 pm, Michael Naclerio’s Home, 110 N. Greenbush Rd., West Nyack. Michael has a beautiful yard, garden - and outdoor patio area - perfect for entertaining. He is sharing it with us - an afternoon you won’t want to miss. New members, I hope you can come. We really want to meet you, and Michael is giving us a perfect opportunity.
Cultivating Joy. Thursday, June 26. 1:00 pm, Marydell Faith and Life Center, 640 North Midland Ave., Upper Nyack. Garden Clubs hold Horticulture Shows. Ours is a little different. You can bring whatever you want - whatever, in your gardening experience, brings you joy. It’s an opportunity to share knowledge, inspiration, and to learn from each other. Based on our first attempt in 2023, this is a celebration of creativity; good conversation as we stroll the tables; delightful refreshments (don’t worry about bringing your own cup for this meeting) - with all the beauty of Hook Mountain and Marydell as a backdrop. For more details regarding exhibits, see attachment in the June Newsletter.
Memorial for Adele Yeiser. Adele loved the Garden Club and her family graciously asked, that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to the Garden Club. That fund has now raised $225. Adele’s daughter, Elizabeth Danahy, is one of our new members. We will be working with her to use that money in the butterfly garden. If you would like to honor Adele in this way, send a check made out to the club with a notation, to the treasurer: Matt Dow, 318 Fulle Drive, Valley Cottage, NY. 10989.
Don’t forget you are teaching Google. Every time someone looks at our new web page we are moving closer to being the first link someone sees when searching for the Nyack Garden Club. All you have to do is click - you don’t even have to look. So do it now.
From last year's Cultivating Joy event:
Plant Sale 2025
What a successful plant sale - $3250 raised! Sandy thanks everyone that helped - especially for the Friday set-up that went so smoothly and the efficient wrap-up on Saturday. For all the plants, baked goods, time spent - thank you!! And special gratitude to Sandy and Anna who spear-headed the event. It seems a small paragraph for the effort all of you put into it, but know your participation is acknowledged and appreciated.
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Newsletter May 2025
PLANT SALE NEWSThe plant sale is less than three weeks away! We have gotten many responses to this year's form, but we have yet to hear from more than 20 members. If you have not done so, please click the following link and fill out your form today. We need to know whether you are bringing plants or buying plants, and when you are available to work. Everyone's participation is needed for a successful and enjoyable day.Even if you cannot attend the plant sale please fill out the form. If you're having difficulty, you can phone kyra, 917-609-6000, for assistance.
If you are unable to deliver your plants to the Depew House between 9am - 1pm on Friday the 16th you can drop them off to Sandy's house and we will get them to the sale for you. The address is 15 Norfolk Ave, Congers, NY.If you have pressing questions please contact the Plant Sale Chairpersons directly
We are looking forward to seeing members on the 16th and 17th, and appreciate everyone's participation. Thank youKyra, Anne, Sandy, Cora and Anna
If you are unable to deliver your plants to the Depew House between 9am - 1pm on Friday the 16th you can drop them off to Sandy's house and we will get them to the sale for you. The address is 15 Norfolk Ave, Congers, NY.If you have pressing questions please contact the Plant Sale Chairpersons directly
We are looking forward to seeing members on the 16th and 17th, and appreciate everyone's participation. Thank youKyra, Anne, Sandy, Cora and Anna
Newsletter April 2025
- UPCOMING EVENTS:
- Monday April 7: A busy day - if you want it to be At 1:00 pm we have our monthly meeting. Jennifer Giunta, owner of Cottage Creek Gardens and a returning club member, will give us a tour of the nursery including pollinator, shrub,, herb, vegetable and raised bed gardens. She’ll also describe several easy methods for creating beds in the landscape: by smothering, gradual replacement, and ‘huge lasagna.’
- Car pooling is encouraged. Cottage Creek Gardens is located at 76 Lake Road, Valley Cottage. Park across the street in Elliot’s Alley. For anyone who has trouble walking, feel free to park in the driveway.
- That morning from 9:00-10:30 is Opening Day for the Butterfly Garden. Everyone has, through the season, an assigned Monday morning in the garden. However, in the beginning we encourage everyone to take part - we need all the hands we can get. This year, because of the afternoon program, if you can’t take part on the 7th, come on the 14th. And please, feel free to come any Monday morning. Sue, Marie, and Bebb are almost always all there (and one always is). Last year I joined them and like many things in life, the more you put into it - the more you get out of it. It’s a fun way to start the week. Bring your own tools; we have been assured that we will, now that renovation is over, be able to again park in front of the river, in the park.
- Mt. Cuba Trip, April 30-May 1. If you have signed up for this trip and have not made your room reservation, do it now. We'll be staying at the Mendenhall Inn in Chadds Ford, PA. They have 12 rooms set aside for us. You must reserve and pay for your own room by phone (610-388-2100, mention Garden Club of Nyack room block) or online (https://www.worldhotels.com/group/hotel-rooms.39143.html?groupId=8A2MV7V4). The hotel will hold our block only until April 16.
- The Plant Sale: May 16 set-up, May 17 Public Sale 10:00 - 2:00
- Time to start planning. As you are cleaning your gardens, think about what you can dig up for the sale. Block time in your calendar for the event. In the next week, you’ll get an email with an online link to tell us your contributions.
- IF YOU MISSED IT:
- The February meeting, an interactive Zoom presentation with a specialist from the Xerces Society, was very interesting. Take a ways: their website (https://www.xerces.org/) is very informative; think very carefully before using any pesticide; realize healthy plants can resist disease - the impetus being to find the right plant for the right place; manually remove affected leaves/plants; live with some holes and ragged edges realizing beneficial insects need to eat. Regarding mosquito control, eliminate standing water. In bird baths, change water every 2-3 days.
- At that meeting, we voted on the charity which will receive a portion of the plant sale proceeds: People-to-People, which now feeds almost 5000 Rocklanders every month.
- THINGS YOU SHOULD KNOW:
- We have a new Sunshine Policy. We are no longer sending flowers when you’re in the hospital or making donations when you die. We don’t have the money but - more importantly - a committee carrying out a policy is not what builds community. Sunshine will send a card, but they will also let all of us know. It becomes the responsibility of each of us to form the caring community.
- Two Plant Acquisition Opportunities:
- The Cooperative Extension online Native Plant sale ends April 18. rocklandcceplantsale.com
- Marydell Children’s Garden is having a seedling and dahlia tuber sale Saturday, April 26. As part of this event, there will be two sessions with the grower. Call Anne Bryant for more details.
- New Members:
- We have two more new members: Susan Spiller (Nyack) and Elizabeth Danahy (West Nyack). Elizabeth is Adele Yeiser’s daughter. Pictures and contact information for all our new members is available. If you would like a digital copy, contact annebryant48@gmail.com. Printed sheets will be available at meetings.
- Don’t forget you are teaching Google. Every time someone looks at our new web page we are moving closer to being the first link someone sees when searching for the Nyack Garden Club. All you have to do is click - you don’t even have to look. So do it now.
- WEBSITE www.gardenclubofnyack.com
A friendly trip to the Orchid Show at the NY Botanical Garden
Newsletter March 2025
UPCOMING EVENTS:
Pollinator Friendly Gardening Practices. Tuesday, March 18 1:00 Valley Cottage Library, 110 Route 303. Insects are dying at alarming rates. We can, inadvertently, be contributing to that process. This program is an interactive Zoom presentation with Aaron Anderson, a Pesticide Program Specialist at the Xerces Society. As part of our mission, to share pollinator-friendly, sustainable gardening practices this program is given in partnership with Valley Cottage Library. Registration is required at https://valleycottage.librarycalendar.com/event/integrated-pest-management-alternatives-pesticides-pest-management-home-garden-14795 If you like to socialize before meetings, come a bit early. Mt. Cuba, April 30-May 1. Details for this over-night trip are being finalized. For more information, check your booklet and the website (https://mtcubacenter.org/). Contact Sue Ridge if you are interested.
Just 20 days till spring! To assist in your dreaming, Cooperative Extension’s Native Plant Sale is now online (https://www.rocklandcceplantsale.com/), this year bigger and better than ever. There are so many exciting offerings you are not likely to see in local nurseries as well as articles researched and written by Rockland Master Gardeners. Warning: shop now; items sell out.
Our own Plant Sale (May 16 set-up, May 17 sale) will be here before we know it. Sandy has already started planning. Last year over 500 plants came in so we’ll need everyone’s help. Save the dates. And start now, thinking about your plant donations. More information at our next meeting. THINGS YOU SHOULD KNOW:
New Members: In addition to the two new members last month Sandra Stellato (Grandview) and, a returning friend, Chris Shankar (Chestnut Ridge), we add to the list Paula Ferzola (Blauvelt), Karen Session (Nanuet), and Jennifer Giunta (Valley Cottage). Welcome! Look for the new faces and introduce yourself. Bring your own cup. For beverages at meetings, we will no longer be providing cups. Bring your own mug. We’ll go through the stock we have (and give us some time to get this into our consciousness), but responsible earth citizenship requires all of us to do what we can. Re-useable cups are a start.
Don’t forget you are teaching Google. Every time someone looks at our new web page we are moving closer to being the first link someone sees when searching for the Nyack Garden Club. All you have to do is click - you don’t even have to look. So do it now.
WEBSITE www.gardenclubofnyack.com
Pollinator Friendly Gardening Practices. Tuesday, March 18 1:00 Valley Cottage Library, 110 Route 303. Insects are dying at alarming rates. We can, inadvertently, be contributing to that process. This program is an interactive Zoom presentation with Aaron Anderson, a Pesticide Program Specialist at the Xerces Society. As part of our mission, to share pollinator-friendly, sustainable gardening practices this program is given in partnership with Valley Cottage Library. Registration is required at https://valleycottage.librarycalendar.com/event/integrated-pest-management-alternatives-pesticides-pest-management-home-garden-14795 If you like to socialize before meetings, come a bit early. Mt. Cuba, April 30-May 1. Details for this over-night trip are being finalized. For more information, check your booklet and the website (https://mtcubacenter.org/). Contact Sue Ridge if you are interested.
Just 20 days till spring! To assist in your dreaming, Cooperative Extension’s Native Plant Sale is now online (https://www.rocklandcceplantsale.com/), this year bigger and better than ever. There are so many exciting offerings you are not likely to see in local nurseries as well as articles researched and written by Rockland Master Gardeners. Warning: shop now; items sell out.
Our own Plant Sale (May 16 set-up, May 17 sale) will be here before we know it. Sandy has already started planning. Last year over 500 plants came in so we’ll need everyone’s help. Save the dates. And start now, thinking about your plant donations. More information at our next meeting. THINGS YOU SHOULD KNOW:
New Members: In addition to the two new members last month Sandra Stellato (Grandview) and, a returning friend, Chris Shankar (Chestnut Ridge), we add to the list Paula Ferzola (Blauvelt), Karen Session (Nanuet), and Jennifer Giunta (Valley Cottage). Welcome! Look for the new faces and introduce yourself. Bring your own cup. For beverages at meetings, we will no longer be providing cups. Bring your own mug. We’ll go through the stock we have (and give us some time to get this into our consciousness), but responsible earth citizenship requires all of us to do what we can. Re-useable cups are a start.
Don’t forget you are teaching Google. Every time someone looks at our new web page we are moving closer to being the first link someone sees when searching for the Nyack Garden Club. All you have to do is click - you don’t even have to look. So do it now.
WEBSITE www.gardenclubofnyack.com
Newsletter February 2025
UPCOMING EVENTS:Clean Above Means Clean Below. Thursday, February 13. 1:00. Valley Cottage Library, 110 Route 303.
Learn how your gardening practices impact the health of our local waterways and marine life. Treatment processes cannot remove all pollutants, therefore what enters are local waterways affects the water we drink becoming the responsibility of all of us to garden accordingly. This presentation, by Jen Zunino-Smith, manager of the Stormwater Consortium of Rockland County, is given in partnership with Valley Cottage Library. Registration is required at https://valleycottage.librarycalendar.com/event/impact-fertilizer-run-our-local-waterways-14794
Mt. Cuba. As of today, we have 9 people who have signed up for this trip (April 30-May1). We need at least one more. Mt. Cuba (https://mtcubacenter.org/) is a beautiful botanic garden committed to the conservation of native lands and their habitats - we’ll be visiting during their prime Trillium bloom. We’ll stay at a nearby hotel and have a group dinner. The next day we’ll wander the gardens on our own, take a hike or hayride through the natural lands of the Center and be able to purchase plants to take home. The overall cost is approximately $350. If you are interested, we need your commitment. Send a $100 deposit (checks made out to the Garden Club of Nyack) to our new treasurer Matt Dow, 318 Fuller Drive, Valley Cottage, NY 10989 and call Sue Ridge, who is making the arrangements.
THINGS YOU SHOULD KNOW:Bring your own cup. For beverages at meetings, we will no longer be providing cups. Bring your own mug. We’ll go through the stock we have (and give us some time to get this into our consciousness), but responsible earth citizenship requires all of us to do what we can. Re-useable cups are a start.
New Members: We have two new members: Sandra Stellato (Grandview) and, a returning friend, Chris Shankar (Chestnut Ridge).
If you need a book: See Anne Bryant. Books were distributed at Soup’s On. It was a lovely afternoon at Linda’s. The food was delicious and fellowship fine. Thanks go to all the cooks, the hospitality committee, and especially Linda for sharing her lovely home.
Don’t forget you are teaching Google. Every time someone looks at our new web page we are moving closer to being the first link someone sees when searching for the Nyack Garden Club. All you have to do is click - you don’t even have to look. So do it now once, twice, three times; the old site has years of clicks. Sad news: Lorna’s mother, Beryl Ione Kirven, left this world on the 28th. She was 100 years old. You might want to drop Lorna a line or card.
Mt. Cuba. As of today, we have 9 people who have signed up for this trip (April 30-May1). We need at least one more. Mt. Cuba (https://mtcubacenter.org/) is a beautiful botanic garden committed to the conservation of native lands and their habitats - we’ll be visiting during their prime Trillium bloom. We’ll stay at a nearby hotel and have a group dinner. The next day we’ll wander the gardens on our own, take a hike or hayride through the natural lands of the Center and be able to purchase plants to take home. The overall cost is approximately $350. If you are interested, we need your commitment. Send a $100 deposit (checks made out to the Garden Club of Nyack) to our new treasurer Matt Dow, 318 Fuller Drive, Valley Cottage, NY 10989 and call Sue Ridge, who is making the arrangements.
THINGS YOU SHOULD KNOW:Bring your own cup. For beverages at meetings, we will no longer be providing cups. Bring your own mug. We’ll go through the stock we have (and give us some time to get this into our consciousness), but responsible earth citizenship requires all of us to do what we can. Re-useable cups are a start.
New Members: We have two new members: Sandra Stellato (Grandview) and, a returning friend, Chris Shankar (Chestnut Ridge).
If you need a book: See Anne Bryant. Books were distributed at Soup’s On. It was a lovely afternoon at Linda’s. The food was delicious and fellowship fine. Thanks go to all the cooks, the hospitality committee, and especially Linda for sharing her lovely home.
Don’t forget you are teaching Google. Every time someone looks at our new web page we are moving closer to being the first link someone sees when searching for the Nyack Garden Club. All you have to do is click - you don’t even have to look. So do it now once, twice, three times; the old site has years of clicks. Sad news: Lorna’s mother, Beryl Ione Kirven, left this world on the 28th. She was 100 years old. You might want to drop Lorna a line or card.
Newsletter January 2025
Soup’s On. Tuesday, January 14. 1:00 pm Join us for our traditional first-of-the-year event. 6 soups, appetizers, salads, breads, desserts, wine, and soft drinks. Amid Linda's vast collection of indoor plants and beautiful art work, we discuss past accomplishments and future plans.Please Note:re: Mt. Cuba. At Soup’s On we will be collecting a deposit of $100 (checks made out to the Garden Club of Nyack) for the overnight trip to Mt. Cuba (https://mtcubacenter.org/), scheduled for April 30-May 1 (overall cost: approximately $350). Mt. Cuba is a beautiful botanic garden committed to the conservation of native lands and their habitats - we’ll be visiting during their prime Trillium bloom. Part of Mt. Cuba’s mission is to evaluate native plants and related cultivars for horticultural and ecological value. During our stay we will have a Guided Garden Enthusiast tour that will show us how to apply sustainable gardening practices and will include visiting the trial gardens. We’ll stay at a nearby by hotel and have a group dinner. The next day we’ll wander the gardens on our own, take a hike or hayride through the natural lands of the Center and be able to purchase plants to take home.
2025 New Officers. At the Holiday Party, an election voted in Anne Bryant and Kyra Saulnier, as Co-Presidents and Anna DelleFemine as Vice President. Other changes include Matt Dow as Treasurer and Sue Ridge as Recording Secretary.
IN CASE YOU MISSED IT:The Holiday Party was a festive affair. The trees were grand, the food delicious, the people - all 31 of them - in their best form. Raffle winners were: Marie Thorpe, the tree-themed Basket; Michael Naclerio, the framed Photograph; Anne Bryant, the Sweater knitted by Helga. We donated $300 to People-to-People.
2025 New Officers. At the Holiday Party, an election voted in Anne Bryant and Kyra Saulnier, as Co-Presidents and Anna DelleFemine as Vice President. Other changes include Matt Dow as Treasurer and Sue Ridge as Recording Secretary.
IN CASE YOU MISSED IT:The Holiday Party was a festive affair. The trees were grand, the food delicious, the people - all 31 of them - in their best form. Raffle winners were: Marie Thorpe, the tree-themed Basket; Michael Naclerio, the framed Photograph; Anne Bryant, the Sweater knitted by Helga. We donated $300 to People-to-People.
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Newsletter December 2024
Happy Holidays! Savor the season. (But, please, take a little time to read the newsletter.)
Holiday Party. Wednesday, December 11 4:00-8:00. New City address in email If you plan to attend, and have not told Jan - DO IT NOW. Let Jan Housewerth know what you plan to bring. RSVP by Friday, December 6th so the appropriate number of tables and chairs can be arranged. Bring your money. Loretta has procured beautiful raffle prizes: a Joanne-Scarmato-Basket and a Peggy Opalek-framed-by-Michele photograph. Proceeds will go to the very worthy charity, People-to-People.
Soup’s On. Tuesday, January 14. 1:00. Pomona address in email Join us at Linda Levin’s house for our traditional first-of-the-year event. Amid her vast collection of indoor plants and beautiful art work, we discuss past accomplishments and future plans. Contact Linda by January 9 with what you would like to bring. Needed are 6 soups, appetizers, salads, desserts, wine, soft drinks, bread.
Mt. Cuba Excursion. An overnight trip to Mt. Cuba (https://mtcubacenter.org/) is on our 2025 agenda. It is scheduled for April 30-May 1 and costs approximately $350. You will be hearing more about this at both of the above events. As we will be collecting a deposit soon, you might want to look over the website.
We were all saddened by Ruth's passing. Does anyone have a picture of her from the August picnic? She was beautiful that day and we are looking for a photograph for the 2025 booklet.
The Photographic Attachments: Pictures 1, 2, and 3 are the raffle prizes (which make excellent gifts). The 4th picture is of Florence (who turned 94 last month) with her malodorous meat-smelling cactus in full bloom.
Holiday Party. Wednesday, December 11 4:00-8:00. New City address in email If you plan to attend, and have not told Jan - DO IT NOW. Let Jan Housewerth know what you plan to bring. RSVP by Friday, December 6th so the appropriate number of tables and chairs can be arranged. Bring your money. Loretta has procured beautiful raffle prizes: a Joanne-Scarmato-Basket and a Peggy Opalek-framed-by-Michele photograph. Proceeds will go to the very worthy charity, People-to-People.
Soup’s On. Tuesday, January 14. 1:00. Pomona address in email Join us at Linda Levin’s house for our traditional first-of-the-year event. Amid her vast collection of indoor plants and beautiful art work, we discuss past accomplishments and future plans. Contact Linda by January 9 with what you would like to bring. Needed are 6 soups, appetizers, salads, desserts, wine, soft drinks, bread.
Mt. Cuba Excursion. An overnight trip to Mt. Cuba (https://mtcubacenter.org/) is on our 2025 agenda. It is scheduled for April 30-May 1 and costs approximately $350. You will be hearing more about this at both of the above events. As we will be collecting a deposit soon, you might want to look over the website.
We were all saddened by Ruth's passing. Does anyone have a picture of her from the August picnic? She was beautiful that day and we are looking for a photograph for the 2025 booklet.
The Photographic Attachments: Pictures 1, 2, and 3 are the raffle prizes (which make excellent gifts). The 4th picture is of Florence (who turned 94 last month) with her malodorous meat-smelling cactus in full bloom.
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December 1st: Holiday planters done by Betsy Turk and Jan Housewerth for the Nyack YMCA.
(if you are in the area, be sure and take a look).
Newsletter November 2024
Editor's note: In an attempt to encourage readership, we try a variety of styles. This newsletter is divided into two parts. The beginning are messages you need to, at the very least, peruse. It’s stuff you need to know with the gist in bold type. The second half is a glance back at the previous month’s activities in case you missed them, gardening events in which you might be interested, etc. All presented with the hope of brevity.
NEWS:We have two programs on the same day:Thursday November 14 1:00 Valley Cottage Library. Spice up Your Holidays. In a Zoom presentation, Chef Graham Lockwood will demonstrate techniques and use of his favorite holiday spices (for more info, see your booklet). This is a joint event with the library so you need to register if you plan to attend: https://valleycottage.librarycalendar.com/event/spice-your-holidays-10709 This can be done at the library, day of program, but easier online.ANDThursday November 14 2:30 Garden Therapy at the Nyack Ridge Rehabilitation and Nursing Center. This was the only date the nursing home had available. We have been doing this for over 30 years and is a rewarding event for both residents and club members. Needed for this: dried flowers, grasses, etc., small baskets, and any little enhancements that might decorate a basket (small birds, tiny stuffed animals, etc.). Drop materials at Linda’s front door or call her and she will pick up or bring to event. If you plan to attend, contact Linda. Parking at the facility is at a premium, a 2:00-2:15 arrival is best.
HOLIDAY PARTY! Wednesday, December 11 4:00-8:00. 54 Woodbine Rd., New CityAnne Bryant provides the venue and members come with food, drink and holiday cheer. Let Jan Housewerth (janhouse1515@gmail.com or 845 304-4168) know what you plan to bring. Please RSVP by Friday, December 6th so the appropriate number of tables and chairs can be arranged.
NEW MEMBERS: Joining the club recently are Michael Naclerio and Robin Haring. Michael Naclerio is a general contractor specializing in landscaping and drainage. Michael started his business in 1988 from from the trunk of a 1984 Pontiac Fiero and “if it didn’t work, I was going to go downtown and be a struggling actor.” It worked. Michael lives in West Nyack. Robin is a life-long resident of Grand View (with the exception of the 14 years she was in New York) in a house she’s lived in since the age of 3. For most of her life, Robin was a textile designer and retired during Covid. We welcome our new members. And a welcome back to a returning member, Betty Gaeta.
PEOPLE NEEDED: We need a Treasurer. Carol Prestia has admirably filled this role for many years. We owe her a huge debt of thanks! But life changes and she is, at some point in the foreseeable future, Florida-bound to be near her children. Please, someone, come forward.
The Butterfly Garden has been put to bed. We are considering changing the format of how the garden is maintained. We are looking for 3-4 people who would be interested in coming twice a month on Monday from 9:00-10:30. Consistent presence in the garden makes the experience more rewarding for both the gardener and the garden.
IN CASE YOU MISSED IT:
We had two Garden Hops this month. On the 8th, Michael Naclerio invited us to see his impressive land and hard scapes and regaled us with wine, sandwiches, and dessert. This was not a typical hop by any measure. Over the water feature was a beautiful weeping redbud we hope to see again in bloom. Florence found this garden for us, thanks Florence!
On the 27th, we were invited to a garden that many members fondly remember. Miriam Wexler was a master gardener and club member who died in 2018. Her house (renovation complete) and gardens (ongoing), were opened to us by the very gracious new owner. Again, not our normal hop. We were invited to return when the dogwoods bloom. Ana arranged this lovely outing, thanks Ana!
On the 15th was the Annual Members Tea at Florence’s. We were very festive in hats, some wore dresses, I even spotted high heels (maybe two inches). If you have pictures, please forward them to Emily King (revemilyking@gmail.com) for website posting. There were two cups left: white with flowers.
On the 24th, was a most interesting presentation by Mary Ellen LeWarn (owner of Ironwood Garden Design) about the challenges of creating a meadow in a flood plain. This is occurring on a distinctive property visible from the Butterfly Garden so to hear the study involved, the lengths (and wealth) required to locate and keep alive plantings (through flood waters and geese invasion) was fascinating. And to top it off, Mary Ellen invited us to the site - the grasses were golden, the river blue - a delightful excursion. Two take-aways for any garden: Japanese Plum Yew (deer resistant) and Slender Silhouette Sweetgum ( a fast-growing, statuesque native tree with star-shaped leaves, red & orange in autumn, and a larval host for the Luna Moth).
Cosmos seeds for sale from Betty Perry's cosmos - orange and yellowish. $5.00 a pack to benefit the Butterfly Garden. Janice Dime is the holder of the seeds. Plant them and remember Betty! NEED A GENTLE, CONGENIAL EXERCISE GROUP? As to exercise: Matt Dow would like to start a tai chi class in Nyack on Wednesday evenings at 7:30. If you are interested, contact Matt at 845 270-9114.
Newsletter October 2024
REMEMBERING BETTYSome of you may have heard that our dear friend, Betty passed away on Tuesday, September 2024. Betty was responsible for the creation of our Butterfly Garden in Memorial Park. Betty’s family, friends, and some members of the Garden Club of Nyack met at the Gazebo by the Butterfly Garden to remember Betty. In addition to many conversations about her, those present joined in singing songs led by her daughter. There will be a special service at 1 p.m. in the Nyack Center on October 19th.
SANGRIA’S SPICY LUNCHEONOn Monday, 9/16, a group of us met at Sangria’s for a lovely social event planned by Janice and connected to this year’s theme, “Spice Up Your Life.” As we sat at our well-set table, we were served very large corn chips with Mexican guacamole. Chef had a cooking station set up near the front of our table with a gas burner, pans, and prepped ingredients. We were all served a large appetizer plate to share as we waited. He demonstrated the preparation of one of the three dishes from our luncheon menu. He was careful to describe the spices, such as cumin, used in the dishes as he prepared, cooked, and plated it for all to see. We then enjoyed our entrees and dessert. Muy delicioso!
LAVANDULA, 9/30/2024Janice planned for Brad Parker, a Master Gardener with the Cornell Cooperative Extension here in Rockland County, to come to speak to us about lavender. A few years ago he purchased a home that was built in 1934 that needed attention paid to its grounds. That is how and when he began working with lavender! He planted 34 lavender plants along the pathway to his front door. During his presentation we saw pictures of his home, his lavender plants, and their development. This process kicked off a period filled with much research. We heard about the history of lavender beginning with historical facts from 700 B.C. to the present. We were all amazed with all the information that Brad shared with us about the various types of lavender, its life cycle, and lots about how to grow and care for lavender. We then had a very interesting question and answer period. Anne and Loretta arranged for all attendees to receive a momento of the experience.
PREVIEWBOSCOBEL GUIDED TOUR: CANCELEDThe guided tour of Boscobel which was originally scheduled for 10/9 has been canceled since the facility is now closed for renovations. It is our hope to schedule it again in the future.
MORE THAN A GARDEN HOP 10/8 (RAIN DATE 10/10)Florence K. called me in the summer telling me she had just been to possibly the loveliest garden she had ever seen. And as she reminded me, she has seen a lot of gardens! This is an opportunity you don't want to miss. Michael Naclerio is the owner of a landscaping/drainage/general contracting business (so can, if he chooses, have a whole crew working on his garden) and would be delighted to show us his yard. He lives at 110 North Greenbush Rd. in West Nyack. He will meet us there Tuesday, Oct. 10 at 3:00 pm. He volunteered to prepare refreshments solet Anne B. know if you are planning to attend.
MEMBERS TEA 10/15We are once again planning to have our yearly “TEA” at Florence’s beautiful Hudson River home at 507 North Broadway in Upper Nyack. Everyone is responsible for bringing an appetizer or tea sandwiches or a dessert as well as liquid libations similar to those brought at our Boat Club Picnic. The tea is our nod to the past and the good ladies who started the GNC. We wear “hats” (some are funny ones) and everyone brings their own china cup for sipping tea.
MEADOW MAGIC, 10/24Anne has planned a very interesting gathering for us in which we will be meeting with Mary Ellen LeWarn of Ironwood Garden Design at the Blauvelt Library at 1 p.m. She will be using her narrative as well as pictures to walk us through the process and purpose of developing a meadow and showing us how to use these principles in our own spaces.
MISCELLANEOUS
Elaine O. is wondering if anyone would like to dig out and transplant plants from the garden in front of her townhome to their own gardens. Elaine has many different plants, such as daisies, iris, pachysandra, etc. Please bring your own tools and materials for transporting the plants for transplanting. Please call Elaine on the cell number listed for her on p. 27 of the Program Book if you are interested IN setting up a date.
What do I do with my dahlias now? The Marydell Children's Garden is inviting us to a workshop on the autumn/winter care of dahlias. This is an informal gathering on October 19 from 10:00-11:00 in the Children's Garden if weather allows (in Kateri if weather is inclement). Stephanie Reger will be presenting. To promote the children's gardening program, a $10 donation is suggested. To learn more, talk to Anne B.
If you have not sent in your membership dues, do so NOW. We are finalizing the list for publication in the 2025 booklet. You don't want to be an add-in on a little piece of paper that gets taped to the back cover - join now (and if you know anyone thinking about joining us "in the future" - now is the time).
PREVIEWBOSCOBEL GUIDED TOUR: CANCELEDThe guided tour of Boscobel which was originally scheduled for 10/9 has been canceled since the facility is now closed for renovations. It is our hope to schedule it again in the future.
MORE THAN A GARDEN HOP 10/8 (RAIN DATE 10/10)Florence K. called me in the summer telling me she had just been to possibly the loveliest garden she had ever seen. And as she reminded me, she has seen a lot of gardens! This is an opportunity you don't want to miss. Michael Naclerio is the owner of a landscaping/drainage/general contracting business (so can, if he chooses, have a whole crew working on his garden) and would be delighted to show us his yard. He lives at 110 North Greenbush Rd. in West Nyack. He will meet us there Tuesday, Oct. 10 at 3:00 pm. He volunteered to prepare refreshments solet Anne B. know if you are planning to attend.
MEMBERS TEA 10/15We are once again planning to have our yearly “TEA” at Florence’s beautiful Hudson River home at 507 North Broadway in Upper Nyack. Everyone is responsible for bringing an appetizer or tea sandwiches or a dessert as well as liquid libations similar to those brought at our Boat Club Picnic. The tea is our nod to the past and the good ladies who started the GNC. We wear “hats” (some are funny ones) and everyone brings their own china cup for sipping tea.
MEADOW MAGIC, 10/24Anne has planned a very interesting gathering for us in which we will be meeting with Mary Ellen LeWarn of Ironwood Garden Design at the Blauvelt Library at 1 p.m. She will be using her narrative as well as pictures to walk us through the process and purpose of developing a meadow and showing us how to use these principles in our own spaces.
MISCELLANEOUS
Elaine O. is wondering if anyone would like to dig out and transplant plants from the garden in front of her townhome to their own gardens. Elaine has many different plants, such as daisies, iris, pachysandra, etc. Please bring your own tools and materials for transporting the plants for transplanting. Please call Elaine on the cell number listed for her on p. 27 of the Program Book if you are interested IN setting up a date.
What do I do with my dahlias now? The Marydell Children's Garden is inviting us to a workshop on the autumn/winter care of dahlias. This is an informal gathering on October 19 from 10:00-11:00 in the Children's Garden if weather allows (in Kateri if weather is inclement). Stephanie Reger will be presenting. To promote the children's gardening program, a $10 donation is suggested. To learn more, talk to Anne B.
If you have not sent in your membership dues, do so NOW. We are finalizing the list for publication in the 2025 booklet. You don't want to be an add-in on a little piece of paper that gets taped to the back cover - join now (and if you know anyone thinking about joining us "in the future" - now is the time).
Newsletter September 2024
ALERT: SANGRIA’S MEXICANA RESTAURANT DEADLINEFitting in with this year’s theme, we plan to “Spice Up Your Life” by having a luncheon along with a chef’s demonstration at Sangria’s at 97 Route 303 in Congers. It is scheduled for Tuesday, September 24, at 12 noon! Now here is the alert!!! If you would like to attend you need to get a check for $25 to our treasurer, Carol P., by the deadline: Monday, September 16 !!!
LAVANDULA WITH MASTER GARDENER BRAD PARKEROn Monday, September 30 at 1 p.m. we will be meeting Master Gardener Brad Parker at the Haverstraw Main Library, 10 W. Ramapo Road also known as Route 202. Brad’s will be sharing his knowledge of lavender, which so many of us hold dear because of its beautiful scent and calming affects. Come to learn all there is to know about Lavandula, how easy it is to grow and its environmental benefits.
ANNUAL GCN PICNIC @ NYACK BOAT CLUBTuesday, August 27th, was a beautiful day for the GCN Picnic! The picnic was held as usual at the Nyack Boat Club, located on the river. Our Hospitality Committee set up tables for appetizers, entrees, desserts and drinks in the club room. Our members provided a wonderful assortment of all types of food and drink. Some members sat indoors on very comfy sofas, some chose to sit outdoors on the large terrace facing the river, and some chose to try out both locations.
POST PICNIC BUSINESS MEETINGDuring a brief business meeting members had the opportunity to hear a Treasurer’s Report delivered by our treasurer, Carol P., in addition to covering a few other topics. Members had voted in March to donate some of the money earned at the Plant Sale to The Center for Safety and Change. World Central Kitchen, which received two fewer votes, will receive the proceeds, a total of $305 from the raffle held during the picnic. Thanks to Loretta T. for organizing the raffling of three prizes, to Linda L. for donating her very beautiful watercolor painting, to Helga V.W. for knitting a beautiful rose-colored shawl, and a wooden cutting board with wooden serving bowl crafted by Michele T. !
PROGRAM BOOK 2025Our Program Committee has been working industriously on preparing a fascinating year of activities for us in 2025. Ann E., the Committee Chair spoke about a trip to Longwood Gardens in November 2024. If interested, please contact her. In addition, Sue R. spoke about a 2025 trip to Mt. Cuba and asked those interested to raise their hands and received quite a positive response. And lastly, if you would like to change your photograph in the Program Book, please consult our Program Book Chair, Ann K.
RECIPE COLLECTIONThink about it!!! Wouldn’t you say that many grand recipes were utilized for the picnic, for our holiday party, for Soup’s On? Sue R. has offered to collect all our recipes to form a digital GCN Recipe Book. Please e-mail any of the recipes you have or will be using for club functions. Let’s all be part of this creative process! AN INVITATION FROM PEGGY O.Three of Peggy’s photographs will be on display at the FALL FOR ART exhibit being held at the Blue Hill Art & Cultural Center at Blue Hill Plaza, 501 Veterans Memorial Drive, Pearl River, NY. A reception is being held on September 7, 2024 from 2 – 4 p.m. You are cordially invited to join us at the reception. The exhibit will be on display until March 8, 2024. Directions to Blue Hill Plaza:• Take Palisades Interstate Parkway to Exit 6W.• Continue onto Orangeburg Road.• Drive west for 2 miles.• Blue Hill Plaza is located opposite the Hilton Hotel.• Make a left into the entrance to Blue Hill. • Follow the sign for Visitors Parking by the pond.• ENJOY!
Newsletter August 2024
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- ANNUAL GCN PICNIC @ NYACK BOAT CLUB
- Tuesday, August 27th, was a beautiful day for the GCN Picnic! The picnic was held as usual at the Nyack Boat Club, located on the river. Our Hospitality Committee set up tables for appetizers, entrees, desserts and drinks in the club room. Our members provided a wonderful assortment of all types of food and drink. Some members sat indoors on very comfy sofas, some chose to sit outdoors on the large terrace facing the river, and some chose to try out both locations.
- POST PICNIC BUSINESS MEETING
- During a brief business meeting members had the opportunity to hear a Treasurer’s Report delivered by our treasurer, Carol P., in addition to covering a few other topics. Members had voted in March to donate some of the money earned at the Plant Sale to The Center for Safety and Change. World Central Kitchen, which received two fewer votes, will receive the proceeds, a total of $305 from the raffle held during the picnic. Thanks to Loretta T. for organizing the raffling of three prizes, to Linda L. for donating her very beautiful watercolor painting, to Helga V.W. for knitting a beautiful rose-colored shawl, and a wooden cutting board with wooden serving bowl crafted by Michele T. !
- ALERT: SANGRIA’S MEXICANA RESTAURANT DEADLINE
- Fitting in with this year’s theme, we plan to “Spice Up Your Life” by having a luncheon along with a chef’s demonstration at Sangria’s at 97 Route 303 in Congers. It is scheduled for Tuesday, September 24, at 12 noon! Now here is the alert!!! If you would like to attend you need to get a check for $25 to our treasurer, Carol P., by the deadline: Monday, September 16
- LAVANDULA WITH MASTER GARDENER BRAD PARKER
- On Monday, September 30 at 1 p.m. we will be meeting Master Gardener Brad Parker at the Haverstraw Main Library, 10 W. Ramapo Road also known as Route 202. Brad’s will be sharing his knowledge of lavender, which so many of us hold dear because of its beautiful scent and calming affects. Come to learn all there is to know about Lavandula, how easy it is to grow and its environmental benefits.
- PROGRAM BOOK 2025
- Our Program Committee has been working industriously on preparing a fascinating year of activities for us in 2025. Ann E., the Committee Chair spoke about a trip to Longwood Gardens in November 2024. If interested, please contact her. In addition, Sue R. spoke about a 2025 trip to Mt. Cuba and asked those interested to raise their hands and received quite a positive response. And lastly, if you would like to change your photograph in the Program Book, please consult our Program Book Chair, Ann K.
- GARDEN CLUB RECIPE COLLECTION
- Think about it!!! Wouldn’t you say that many grand recipes were utilized for the picnic, for our holiday party, for Soup’s On? Sue R. has offered to collect all our recipes to form a digital GCN Recipe Book. Please e-mail any of the recipes you have or will be using for club functions. Let’s all be part of this creative process!
- AN INVITATION FROM PEGGY O.
- Three of Peggy’s photographs will be on display at the FALL FOR ART exhibit being held at the Blue Hill Art & Cultural Center at Blue Hill Plaza, 501 Veterans Memorial Drive, Pearl River, NY. A reception is being held on September 7, 2024 from 2 – 4 p.m. You are cordially invited to join us at the reception. The exhibit will be on display until March 8, 2024.
- Directions to Blue Hill Plaza
- · Take Palisades Interstate Parkway to Exit 6W.
- · Continue onto Orangeburg Road.
- · Drive west for 2 miles.
- · Blue Hill Plaza is located opposite the Hilton Hotel.
- · Make a left into the entrance to Blue Hill.
- · Follow the sign for Visitors Parking by the pond.
- · ENJOY!
Garden Club's Nyack Community Garden Produces! Donates to People-to-People!
Through the leadership and hard work of GCN Betsey Turk and her committee, the GCN has a Nyack Community Garden plot that it maintains throughout the growing season with the express purpose of donating all the produce harvested to People to People. Today onions, carrots and squash was donated. All the produce is organic.
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Newsletter July 2024
A member reports on the “Wow! I never knew that.” NATURE STROLL with Susan Petro, June 7, 2024Walking through the grounds of Ramapo College with Dr. Susan Petro brought the title of the walk to our lips quite often! Many of us said, “Wow! I never knew that.” For example: as we looked at a tree with lichen covered bark, we learned that the lichen indicated the presence of very pure air. And did you know that all non-native honeysuckle are hollow while native honeysuckle are not hollow! “I never knew that!” Similar discoveries were made when we looked at pines, evergreens, grasses, and weeds during a most enjoyable stroll where we continually were amazed.
Events coming up!BOTANICAL BEVERAGES AT GARRETSON FARM IN FAIR LAWN, NJ, JULY 24, 2024, (Raindate: 7/31/2024)This event was originally scheduled for July 9 but has been rescheduled as well as developed. Special thanks need to be extended to Kyra Saulnier for working with the staff at Garretson to develop this program. Please join Liz School, Master Herbalist, and Ginger Andro, Aromatherapist for this very special event. We will be exploring the traditional uses of bitters and aromatic herbs for digestive health and also for flavoring delightful drinks. We will tour the Garretson Farm gardens and learn about the history of the farm and homestead which date from 1719.The farm gardens are divided into four sections: pantry, pollinator, native, and herb. We will discuss the science of bitters and traditional uses, both for health benefits and as cocktail ingredients. We will craft a botanical bitter, incorporating herbs from the garden, and taste several nonalcoholic drinks. Bring a brown bag lunch to enjoy after the workshop in the shade of a giant Chinese Chestnut Tree. It was declared a New Jersey Champion Tree by the New Jersey Forestry Department in 2023; the largest known example of that species in the state. The fee is $10 per person. It covers the garden tour, the workshop, and a materials fee that enables each participant to take home a jar of bitters.
ANNUAL PICNIC AT NYACK BOAT CLUB, August 27, 2024Mark your calendars! We will be meeting at 1 p.m. on Tuesday, August 27th at the Nyack Boat Club at 59 Gedney Street in the village of Nyack. We would like to thank Carol Marsh for arranging this date for the GCN. Here are a few reminders to ensure that a good time will be had by all! A special raffle with a special prize will be taking place! Refreshments are brought to this event by every member and so based on past picnics, we are all guaranteed a beautiful picnic! Please bring an appetizer, entrée, or dessert, and a beverage for 6 to 8 people. Since this event will take place in August, please remember that all refreshments should, of course, be cold items. We will not be serving any hot food, of course! And there will be no need to wash anything at clean-up time if you remember to bring a plastic bag for your dish, etc.
MEMBERSHIP CHAIRPERSONRuth Gerard has been our Excellent Membership Chairperson for quite a few years. Since Ruth is retiring from that position, we want to thank her for all she has done for the Garden Club of Nyack. All our best wishes for a speedy recovery.
Geraldine Shaw has accepted the position of Membership Chairperson after serving as the super-organized Hospitality Chairperson for the last seven years. Although Geraldine plans on remaining part of the Hospitality Committee, we still need a Hospitality Chairperson. The Garden Club of Nyack needs all of us to step up to the challenge of keeping our organization functioning well. I hope to hear from a volunteer soon!!!
CULTIVATING JOY 2025 by Anne BryantWe have a Horticulture Show biannually. to what look. Next year we are planning to meet again at Marydell and show each other what, in our garden, brings us joy. In a traditional Horticulture Show format one is limited to what looks good on that one particular day of viewing. In our format, you can use photographs or anything else. The format is also designed to be a learning experience- you might want to show us how something develops through time. As you stroll through your garden in the coming months, think about what brings you joy and how you can share that with us. For more information and/or conversation to spark your creativity contact Anne Bryant 845-548-7582.
THE MASTER GARDENER VOLUNTEER PROGRAM APPLICATION DEADLINE: JULY 15, 2024The Cornell Cooperative Extension of Rockland County is now accepting applications for its 2024 – 2025 Master Gardener Volunteer Program. Please consult the information that is available on-line and where the application can be found as well. Space is limited and so, if you are interested, apply today!
ANNUAL PICNIC AT NYACK BOAT CLUB, August 27, 2024Mark your calendars! We will be meeting at 1 p.m. on Tuesday, August 27th at the Nyack Boat Club at 59 Gedney Street in the village of Nyack. We would like to thank Carol Marsh for arranging this date for the GCN. Here are a few reminders to ensure that a good time will be had by all! A special raffle with a special prize will be taking place! Refreshments are brought to this event by every member and so based on past picnics, we are all guaranteed a beautiful picnic! Please bring an appetizer, entrée, or dessert, and a beverage for 6 to 8 people. Since this event will take place in August, please remember that all refreshments should, of course, be cold items. We will not be serving any hot food, of course! And there will be no need to wash anything at clean-up time if you remember to bring a plastic bag for your dish, etc.
MEMBERSHIP CHAIRPERSONRuth Gerard has been our Excellent Membership Chairperson for quite a few years. Since Ruth is retiring from that position, we want to thank her for all she has done for the Garden Club of Nyack. All our best wishes for a speedy recovery.
Geraldine Shaw has accepted the position of Membership Chairperson after serving as the super-organized Hospitality Chairperson for the last seven years. Although Geraldine plans on remaining part of the Hospitality Committee, we still need a Hospitality Chairperson. The Garden Club of Nyack needs all of us to step up to the challenge of keeping our organization functioning well. I hope to hear from a volunteer soon!!!
CULTIVATING JOY 2025 by Anne BryantWe have a Horticulture Show biannually. to what look. Next year we are planning to meet again at Marydell and show each other what, in our garden, brings us joy. In a traditional Horticulture Show format one is limited to what looks good on that one particular day of viewing. In our format, you can use photographs or anything else. The format is also designed to be a learning experience- you might want to show us how something develops through time. As you stroll through your garden in the coming months, think about what brings you joy and how you can share that with us. For more information and/or conversation to spark your creativity contact Anne Bryant 845-548-7582.
THE MASTER GARDENER VOLUNTEER PROGRAM APPLICATION DEADLINE: JULY 15, 2024The Cornell Cooperative Extension of Rockland County is now accepting applications for its 2024 – 2025 Master Gardener Volunteer Program. Please consult the information that is available on-line and where the application can be found as well. Space is limited and so, if you are interested, apply today!
The Summer YMCA Windowbox thrives!
Some of Garden Club of Nyack's greatest contributions to the community!
Member report: A Nature Walk on Ramapo College - 6/7/24
Friday the GCN had one of the most unusual but fascinating trips we offer. Dr Susan Petro, professor of biology at Ramapo College led us around the grounds of Ramapo College pointing out fascinating facts about trees, plants and weeds. We met under the linden trees where we smelled the flowers and stopped for some linden tea and madeleines which she brought from home. We learned how to identify the different evergreens by helpful pneumonics. We also learned how to ID red oaks from white oaks and the different maple trees. Did you know milkweed played a part in our war effort during WWII?Friday the GCN had one of the most unusual but fascinating trips we offer. Dr Susan Petro, professor of biology at Ramapo College led us around the grounds of Ramapo College pointing out fascinating facts about trees, plants and weeds. We met under the linden trees where we smelled the flowers and stopped for some linden tea and madeleines which she brought from home. We learned how to identify the different evergreens by helpful mnemonics. We also learned how to ID red oaks from white oaks and the different maple trees. Did you know milkweed played a part in our war effort during WWII?
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Newsletter June 2024
Events coming up!
FRIDAY, JUNE 7, 9:00 am: A NATURE WALKDr. Susan Petro will be leading a nature walk on the grounds of Ramapo College. Those of us who attended Susan’s April program on spices know what an engaging and knowledgeable presenter she is. In a stroll through an “ordinary” landscape, she will deepen our appreciation and wonder in plants we easily overlook. Learn what wayside weed has more vitamin A than a carrot and more vitamin C than an orange, what tree caused contention between the British and the colonies, stoking the fires of revolution. After our walk, we will lunch at the Mahwah Bar and Grill. This program is limited to 15 and there are still some spots remaining. Contact Loretta Tito, if you would like to attend. If you are willing to drive for this event, let Loretta know. We will meet in the southwest corner of the Commuter Parking Lot (across from Home Depot) at the Palisades Mall at 9:00. (Rain date: June 14)
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 12, 12:00 pm: A GARDEN HOPAnna Dellefamine is inviting us to her garden in Blauvelt: “I am gardening in an English style leaving very little soil exposed. Many varieties of plants are together as one happy family. I have homemade arbors that this year were spectacular with clematis. The flock of 13 chickens provide me with natural fertilizer. The vegetable garden is mixed with flowers and herbs. There is plenty of lawn to play on and I try to maintain it all. I do have a pond which needs redoing, but right now it looks pretty good. I hope you join us for a look and spot of tea.”
It is so much fun to see how others create their gardens. Consider letting us see yours. We don’t expect magazine perfection; we look beyond weeds. Contact Jo Miller if you’d like to invite us.
LOOKING AHEAD to 2025The Program Committee will soon begin planning next year’s activities. If you have suggestions for speakers, trips, topics you would like explored - please let us know. If you would like to be further involved in helping to develop the theme and flesh out ideas, let us know that too. Ann Ellis and Cheryl Duber chair this committee. REMEMBER THE BUTTERFLY GARDENIt needs all the weeders it can get. If you can lend a hand, in addition to the time you are assigned, please meet us in the garden: 9:00 am every Monday (excepting in storms and on holidays). Nyack Memorial Park by the riverside gazebo.
It is so much fun to see how others create their gardens. Consider letting us see yours. We don’t expect magazine perfection; we look beyond weeds. Contact Jo Miller if you’d like to invite us.
LOOKING AHEAD to 2025The Program Committee will soon begin planning next year’s activities. If you have suggestions for speakers, trips, topics you would like explored - please let us know. If you would like to be further involved in helping to develop the theme and flesh out ideas, let us know that too. Ann Ellis and Cheryl Duber chair this committee. REMEMBER THE BUTTERFLY GARDENIt needs all the weeders it can get. If you can lend a hand, in addition to the time you are assigned, please meet us in the garden: 9:00 am every Monday (excepting in storms and on holidays). Nyack Memorial Park by the riverside gazebo.
Annual Garden Club Plant Sale May 18, 2024
This year's Plant Sale was very rewarding, and not just because it was a financial success. (See Treasurer's Report below.) Of equal importance, the sale continues to be an instrument by which we share the joy, beauty, and lessons tending a garden gives. We had a lot of young shoppers with “new” homes - just beginning their involvement in the landscape, as well as repeat visitors who look forward to our offerings every year. We cannot thank enough the hard-working chairs, Sandy Arenson, Anna Dellefamine, and Cora Bodkin. And to all who dug, washed roots, repotted, identified, priced, and baked - donating time, money, and effort for a beautiful day. Thank you.
PLANT SALE RE-CAPCarol Prestia, Treasurer reports:
Income: Plant Sales $2000 Baked Goods 311 Bird Houses 105 Vendors 180 Absentee Donations 275 Total Income: $2871
Expenses: Plant Purchases $50 Library Thank You 100 Total Expenses 150 Net Profit: $2721
Proceeds will be allocated between the club and The Center for Safety and Change at our August picnic, our next whole-group gathering.
Income: Plant Sales $2000 Baked Goods 311 Bird Houses 105 Vendors 180 Absentee Donations 275 Total Income: $2871
Expenses: Plant Purchases $50 Library Thank You 100 Total Expenses 150 Net Profit: $2721
Proceeds will be allocated between the club and The Center for Safety and Change at our August picnic, our next whole-group gathering.
Member report: Tour of Van Vleck Gardens, Montclair NJ - 5/6/24
The garden club got a guided tour of the Van Vleck gardens in Montclair NJ on Monday, May 6th. It was the perfect time to be there since many of the gardens were designed for spring blooms since that’s when the Van Vleck’s stayed there. We saw many different rhododendrons and azaleas. We all fell in love with a purple anise shrub which was evergreen with lovely reddish flowers. There was a great variety of interesting trees. I finally saw a silver bells tree in flower. Our guide was charming and knowledgeable. Afterwards we went to lunch at Egan & Sons Irish Gastropub which had an interesting menu that pleased everyone.
Newsletter April 2024
As the days warm and lengthen, life reawakens. Hopefully you’re ready to get out of the house; April is a busy month!
CHANGE OF DATE: BUTTERFLY GARDEN OPENS APRIL 15The BFG is slow to get started this year and many of the plantings from last year are not up yet. So in order to avoid them being disturbed during cleanup, we're going to postpone the maintenance start for 2 weeks - beginning April 15. We'll make that day the all hands on deck day, instead of just the two people mentioned in the Program Book.
Since there is construction going on in Memorial Park, we won't be able to park there. Parking is available at a municipal lot at the marina. DIRECTIONS: Take Main St. (Rt 59) into Nyack and turn right onto South Broadway. Take the next left onto Burd Street and go to the parking lot just past Nyack Seaport. Go through the restaurant parking lot to the marina lot. Then you'll need to walk over the bridge to the BFG. NOTE: parking is free until 10:00. Bring gloves and hand tools; shovels, etc., will be provided. See you then!
PLANT SALE PREPARATIONIt's time to start organizing the wonderful Plant Sale we put together for our community every year. We are again collecting information via an electronic form. This year we have added a seed swap and botanical art sale which we hope will increase our bottom line. More information will follow as the Plant Sale gets closer.
April 11th (Thursday): FANTASTIC FIGS. VALLEY COTTAGE LIBRARY, 1:00.This is a joint presentation with the library and requires registration. Click on the link at the end of this sentence or call the library to register for Fantastic Figs. Join Prema Goldstein, Master Gardener Intern, to learn about propagating figs in our cold climate - in ground as well as in pots - with demonstrations on protecting trees outdoors in winter. For further enticement, see your booklet. A short business meeting follows. Refreshments: Addie Feist and Anya Taylor. Hospitality: Linda Levin and Peggy Opalek.
April 19th (Friday): AROUND THE WORLD IN SPICES WITH SUSAN PETRO. NEW CITY LIBRARY, 1:00.Susan needs no introduction for most club members. A professor in biology at Ramapo College, her programs are always top drawer. This one delights in the history of spices - how their tastes, textures and ability to preserve have enhanced mankind's table and changed the course of history.
MAY 6 (Monday): TRIP TO VAN VLECK GARDENS. 10:00 amA tour with the Director of Horticulture highlights the beauties of this twelve acre private estate. Wear comfortable shoes; paths are gravel, woodchips, and/or grass. This trip is limited to 20 people; cost will be from 7-10 dollars depending on how many sign up (plus gratuity for the driver). Lunch will follow at a local restaurant. Peggyn Opalek is coordinating. Express your interest and send her your money by April 25. Meet in the Palisades Commuter Lot (opposite Home Depot) in the southwest corner, Section 58.
MISCELLANEOUS:Results of the vote taken last meeting: (1) Plant Sale contribution goes to one charity, The Center for Safety and Change. (2) We will proceed with Web Page development.
Garden Hops are a great way to get ideas and see what can grow (or not) in our Rockland environment. Consider showing us your garden; contact Jo Miller if you would like to arrange a date for spring, summer, or fall.
A huge thanks to our refreshment providers. The theme-oriented treats have been delicious. Remember Sue Ridge is collecting recipes for a future publication.
CHANGE OF DATE: BUTTERFLY GARDEN OPENS APRIL 15The BFG is slow to get started this year and many of the plantings from last year are not up yet. So in order to avoid them being disturbed during cleanup, we're going to postpone the maintenance start for 2 weeks - beginning April 15. We'll make that day the all hands on deck day, instead of just the two people mentioned in the Program Book.
Since there is construction going on in Memorial Park, we won't be able to park there. Parking is available at a municipal lot at the marina. DIRECTIONS: Take Main St. (Rt 59) into Nyack and turn right onto South Broadway. Take the next left onto Burd Street and go to the parking lot just past Nyack Seaport. Go through the restaurant parking lot to the marina lot. Then you'll need to walk over the bridge to the BFG. NOTE: parking is free until 10:00. Bring gloves and hand tools; shovels, etc., will be provided. See you then!
PLANT SALE PREPARATIONIt's time to start organizing the wonderful Plant Sale we put together for our community every year. We are again collecting information via an electronic form. This year we have added a seed swap and botanical art sale which we hope will increase our bottom line. More information will follow as the Plant Sale gets closer.
April 11th (Thursday): FANTASTIC FIGS. VALLEY COTTAGE LIBRARY, 1:00.This is a joint presentation with the library and requires registration. Click on the link at the end of this sentence or call the library to register for Fantastic Figs. Join Prema Goldstein, Master Gardener Intern, to learn about propagating figs in our cold climate - in ground as well as in pots - with demonstrations on protecting trees outdoors in winter. For further enticement, see your booklet. A short business meeting follows. Refreshments: Addie Feist and Anya Taylor. Hospitality: Linda Levin and Peggy Opalek.
April 19th (Friday): AROUND THE WORLD IN SPICES WITH SUSAN PETRO. NEW CITY LIBRARY, 1:00.Susan needs no introduction for most club members. A professor in biology at Ramapo College, her programs are always top drawer. This one delights in the history of spices - how their tastes, textures and ability to preserve have enhanced mankind's table and changed the course of history.
MAY 6 (Monday): TRIP TO VAN VLECK GARDENS. 10:00 amA tour with the Director of Horticulture highlights the beauties of this twelve acre private estate. Wear comfortable shoes; paths are gravel, woodchips, and/or grass. This trip is limited to 20 people; cost will be from 7-10 dollars depending on how many sign up (plus gratuity for the driver). Lunch will follow at a local restaurant. Peggyn Opalek is coordinating. Express your interest and send her your money by April 25. Meet in the Palisades Commuter Lot (opposite Home Depot) in the southwest corner, Section 58.
MISCELLANEOUS:Results of the vote taken last meeting: (1) Plant Sale contribution goes to one charity, The Center for Safety and Change. (2) We will proceed with Web Page development.
Garden Hops are a great way to get ideas and see what can grow (or not) in our Rockland environment. Consider showing us your garden; contact Jo Miller if you would like to arrange a date for spring, summer, or fall.
A huge thanks to our refreshment providers. The theme-oriented treats have been delicious. Remember Sue Ridge is collecting recipes for a future publication.
club news log
Member report: Tour of Van Vleck Gardens, Montclair NJ - 5/6/24
Newsletter June 2024
Events coming up!
FRIDAY, JUNE 7, 9:00 am: A NATURE WALKDr. Susan Petro will be leading a nature walk on the grounds of Ramapo College. Those of us who attended Susan’s April program on spices know what an engaging and knowledgeable presenter she is. In a stroll through an “ordinary” landscape, she will deepen our appreciation and wonder in plants we easily overlook. Learn what wayside weed has more vitamin A than a carrot and more vitamin C than an orange, what tree caused contention between the British and the colonies, stoking the fires of revolution. After our walk, we will lunch at the Mahwah Bar and Grill. This program is limited to 15 and there are still some spots remaining. Contact Loretta Tito, if you would like to attend. If you are willing to drive for this event, let Loretta know. We will meet in the southwest corner of the Commuter Parking Lot (across from Home Depot) at the Palisades Mall at 9:00. (Rain date: June 14)
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 12, 12:00 pm: A GARDEN HOPAnna Dellefamine is inviting us to her garden in Blauvelt: “I am gardening in an English style leaving very little soil exposed. Many varieties of plants are together as one happy family. I have homemade arbors that this year were spectacular with clematis. The flock of 13 chickens provide me with natural fertilizer. The vegetable garden is mixed with flowers and herbs. There is plenty of lawn to play on and I try to maintain it all. I do have a pond which needs redoing, but right now it looks pretty good. I hope you join us for a look and spot of tea.”
It is so much fun to see how others create their gardens. Consider letting us see yours. We don’t expect magazine perfection; we look beyond weeds. Contact Jo Miller if you’d like to invite us.
LOOKING AHEAD to 2025The Program Committee will soon begin planning next year’s activities. If you have suggestions for speakers, trips, topics you would like explored - please let us know. If you would like to be further involved in helping to develop the theme and flesh out ideas, let us know that too. Ann Ellis and Cheryl Duber chair this committee. REMEMBER THE BUTTERFLY GARDENIt needs all the weeders it can get. If you can lend a hand, in addition to the time you are assigned, please meet us in the garden: 9:00 am every Monday (excepting in storms and on holidays). Nyack Memorial Park by the riverside gazebo.
It is so much fun to see how others create their gardens. Consider letting us see yours. We don’t expect magazine perfection; we look beyond weeds. Contact Jo Miller if you’d like to invite us.
LOOKING AHEAD to 2025The Program Committee will soon begin planning next year’s activities. If you have suggestions for speakers, trips, topics you would like explored - please let us know. If you would like to be further involved in helping to develop the theme and flesh out ideas, let us know that too. Ann Ellis and Cheryl Duber chair this committee. REMEMBER THE BUTTERFLY GARDENIt needs all the weeders it can get. If you can lend a hand, in addition to the time you are assigned, please meet us in the garden: 9:00 am every Monday (excepting in storms and on holidays). Nyack Memorial Park by the riverside gazebo.
Annual Garden Club Plant Sale May 18, 2024
This year's Plant Sale was very rewarding, and not just because it was a financial success. (See Treasurer's Report below.) Of equal importance, the sale continues to be an instrument by which we share the joy, beauty, and lessons tending a garden gives. We had a lot of young shoppers with “new” homes - just beginning their involvement in the landscape, as well as repeat visitors who look forward to our offerings every year. We cannot thank enough the hard-working chairs, Sandy Arenson, Anna Dellefamine, and Cora Bodkin. And to all who dug, washed roots, repotted, identified, priced, and baked - donating time, money, and effort for a beautiful day. Thank you.
PLANT SALE RE-CAPCarol Prestia, Treasurer reports:
Income: Plant Sales $2000 Baked Goods 311 Bird Houses 105 Vendors 180 Absentee Donations 275 Total Income: $2871
Expenses: Plant Purchases $50 Library Thank You 100 Total Expenses 150 Net Profit: $2721
Proceeds will be allocated between the club and The Center for Safety and Change at our August picnic, our next whole-group gathering.
Income: Plant Sales $2000 Baked Goods 311 Bird Houses 105 Vendors 180 Absentee Donations 275 Total Income: $2871
Expenses: Plant Purchases $50 Library Thank You 100 Total Expenses 150 Net Profit: $2721
Proceeds will be allocated between the club and The Center for Safety and Change at our August picnic, our next whole-group gathering.
Member report: Tour of Van Vleck Gardens, Montclair NJ - 5/6/24
The garden club got a guided tour of the Van Vleck gardens in Montclair NJ on Monday, May 6th. It was the perfect time to be there since many of the gardens were designed for spring blooms since that’s when the Van Vleck’s stayed there. We saw many different rhododendrons and azaleas. We all fell in love with a purple anise shrub which was evergreen with lovely reddish flowers. There was a great variety of interesting trees. I finally saw a silver bells tree in flower. Our guide was charming and knowledgeable. Afterwards we went to lunch at Egan & Sons Irish Gastropub which had an interesting menu that pleased everyone.
Newsletter April 2024
As the days warm and lengthen, life reawakens. Hopefully you’re ready to get out of the house; April is a busy month!
CHANGE OF DATE: BUTTERFLY GARDEN OPENS APRIL 15The BFG is slow to get started this year and many of the plantings from last year are not up yet. So in order to avoid them being disturbed during cleanup, we're going to postpone the maintenance start for 2 weeks - beginning April 15. We'll make that day the all hands on deck day, instead of just the two people mentioned in the Program Book.
Since there is construction going on in Memorial Park, we won't be able to park there. Parking is available at a municipal lot at the marina. DIRECTIONS: Take Main St. (Rt 59) into Nyack and turn right onto South Broadway. Take the next left onto Burd Street and go to the parking lot just past Nyack Seaport. Go through the restaurant parking lot to the marina lot. Then you'll need to walk over the bridge to the BFG. NOTE: parking is free until 10:00. Bring gloves and hand tools; shovels, etc., will be provided. See you then!
PLANT SALE PREPARATIONIt's time to start organizing the wonderful Plant Sale we put together for our community every year. We are again collecting information via an electronic form. This year we have added a seed swap and botanical art sale which we hope will increase our bottom line. More information will follow as the Plant Sale gets closer.
April 11th (Thursday): FANTASTIC FIGS. VALLEY COTTAGE LIBRARY, 1:00.This is a joint presentation with the library and requires registration. Click on the link at the end of this sentence or call the library to register for Fantastic Figs. Join Prema Goldstein, Master Gardener Intern, to learn about propagating figs in our cold climate - in ground as well as in pots - with demonstrations on protecting trees outdoors in winter. For further enticement, see your booklet. A short business meeting follows. Refreshments: Addie Feist and Anya Taylor. Hospitality: Linda Levin and Peggy Opalek.
April 19th (Friday): AROUND THE WORLD IN SPICES WITH SUSAN PETRO. NEW CITY LIBRARY, 1:00.Susan needs no introduction for most club members. A professor in biology at Ramapo College, her programs are always top drawer. This one delights in the history of spices - how their tastes, textures and ability to preserve have enhanced mankind's table and changed the course of history.
MAY 6 (Monday): TRIP TO VAN VLECK GARDENS. 10:00 amA tour with the Director of Horticulture highlights the beauties of this twelve acre private estate. Wear comfortable shoes; paths are gravel, woodchips, and/or grass. This trip is limited to 20 people; cost will be from 7-10 dollars depending on how many sign up (plus gratuity for the driver). Lunch will follow at a local restaurant. Peggyn Opalek is coordinating. Express your interest and send her your money by April 25. Meet in the Palisades Commuter Lot (opposite Home Depot) in the southwest corner, Section 58.
MISCELLANEOUS:Results of the vote taken last meeting: (1) Plant Sale contribution goes to one charity, The Center for Safety and Change. (2) We will proceed with Web Page development.
Garden Hops are a great way to get ideas and see what can grow (or not) in our Rockland environment. Consider showing us your garden; contact Jo Miller if you would like to arrange a date for spring, summer, or fall.
A huge thanks to our refreshment providers. The theme-oriented treats have been delicious. Remember Sue Ridge is collecting recipes for a future publication.
CHANGE OF DATE: BUTTERFLY GARDEN OPENS APRIL 15The BFG is slow to get started this year and many of the plantings from last year are not up yet. So in order to avoid them being disturbed during cleanup, we're going to postpone the maintenance start for 2 weeks - beginning April 15. We'll make that day the all hands on deck day, instead of just the two people mentioned in the Program Book.
Since there is construction going on in Memorial Park, we won't be able to park there. Parking is available at a municipal lot at the marina. DIRECTIONS: Take Main St. (Rt 59) into Nyack and turn right onto South Broadway. Take the next left onto Burd Street and go to the parking lot just past Nyack Seaport. Go through the restaurant parking lot to the marina lot. Then you'll need to walk over the bridge to the BFG. NOTE: parking is free until 10:00. Bring gloves and hand tools; shovels, etc., will be provided. See you then!
PLANT SALE PREPARATIONIt's time to start organizing the wonderful Plant Sale we put together for our community every year. We are again collecting information via an electronic form. This year we have added a seed swap and botanical art sale which we hope will increase our bottom line. More information will follow as the Plant Sale gets closer.
April 11th (Thursday): FANTASTIC FIGS. VALLEY COTTAGE LIBRARY, 1:00.This is a joint presentation with the library and requires registration. Click on the link at the end of this sentence or call the library to register for Fantastic Figs. Join Prema Goldstein, Master Gardener Intern, to learn about propagating figs in our cold climate - in ground as well as in pots - with demonstrations on protecting trees outdoors in winter. For further enticement, see your booklet. A short business meeting follows. Refreshments: Addie Feist and Anya Taylor. Hospitality: Linda Levin and Peggy Opalek.
April 19th (Friday): AROUND THE WORLD IN SPICES WITH SUSAN PETRO. NEW CITY LIBRARY, 1:00.Susan needs no introduction for most club members. A professor in biology at Ramapo College, her programs are always top drawer. This one delights in the history of spices - how their tastes, textures and ability to preserve have enhanced mankind's table and changed the course of history.
MAY 6 (Monday): TRIP TO VAN VLECK GARDENS. 10:00 amA tour with the Director of Horticulture highlights the beauties of this twelve acre private estate. Wear comfortable shoes; paths are gravel, woodchips, and/or grass. This trip is limited to 20 people; cost will be from 7-10 dollars depending on how many sign up (plus gratuity for the driver). Lunch will follow at a local restaurant. Peggyn Opalek is coordinating. Express your interest and send her your money by April 25. Meet in the Palisades Commuter Lot (opposite Home Depot) in the southwest corner, Section 58.
MISCELLANEOUS:Results of the vote taken last meeting: (1) Plant Sale contribution goes to one charity, The Center for Safety and Change. (2) We will proceed with Web Page development.
Garden Hops are a great way to get ideas and see what can grow (or not) in our Rockland environment. Consider showing us your garden; contact Jo Miller if you would like to arrange a date for spring, summer, or fall.
A huge thanks to our refreshment providers. The theme-oriented treats have been delicious. Remember Sue Ridge is collecting recipes for a future publication.