Reports of the Botanical Arts Committee of the Garden Club of Montclair Botanical Arts Committee Reports Committees 2024-2025 — Florence Leyssène Chair; Debbie Moran, Vice Chair The Botanical Arts Division held competitions this past year in October, November, January, February, March and April. Each month offered two classes from the Horticulture, Design, Artistic Crafts and Photography sections. A variety of classes was presented: Dried and Preserved Flowers in Horticulture; Exploration, Mobile, Plaque and Pot-et-Fleur in Design; Mask, Napkin Ring, Brooch, Bird House and Corsage in Artistic Crafts; two classes in Photography. The Botanical Arts Division seems to be successful as it attracts new and very enthusiastic designers. 2024-2025 Committee: Kathy Bachmann, Barbara Baletti, Karen DeLuca, Karen Fricke, Debbie Moran, Tova Narrett, Floss O’Sullivan, Susan van Inwegen. 2023-2024 — Florence Leyssène Chair; Debbie Moran, Vice Chair This past year marked the second year since the introduction of classes in the Botanical Arts Division for monthly competition. In each month, two classes were offered from among four sections in the Division ― Botanical Arts, Horticulture, Design, Artistic Craft and Photography ― and the member response was both enthusiastic and impressive in the degree of creativity and detailed execution. It’s clear that there is a home in Botanical Arts classes for some members who do not wish to participate in Flower Design, but like the opportunity to express their creativity using plant material in this different, slightly more informal environment. A decorated fresh pumpkin in the fall and a shoe embellished with plant material were enthusiastically and delightfully created, stunning invitation cards were crafted for a winter party, and a botanical jewelry bracelet and two photography assignments were also challenges embraced. Still a relatively new Division for NGC, each year brings a learning curve that will no doubt continue. Finding imaginative challenges for our members may be the toughest task for the Botanical Arts committee next year!

The Garden Club of Montclair is dedicated to sharing knowledge and practice of conservation, horticulture, and the artistic use of plant material. We beautify the Township of Montclair and sponsor and support projects in the schools of our town. And, not least, we foster fellowship and friendship through our work and our social activities. The Garden Club of Montclair proudly celebrates its 100th anniversary. See the list of planned events throughout the year. In the News Click here to see ALL "In the News" posts January (February) Competition Results 7 days ago Backyard Kitchen Garden Feb 6 Update on our Youth Committee Jan 31 Creating Art from Pressed and Dried Plants Jan 18 End of Year Joy Dec 29, 2025 Drumthwacket Trip Dec 6, 2025

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Environment We see this page as a developing newsletter, where we document our Club's commitment to the increasingly urgent need to view everything we do individually and as a group through the lens of sustainability. Below you will find upcoming events, featured articles, this committee's mission, News Not exactly news, but read Jacoba's fascinating article on trees on this page, below . She wrote it for the Brookdale Park Conservancy . Events Nov. 13, 6:00 - 8:00pm. Groundbreaking for the Newark portion of the Greenway project is expected in 2025! Join the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection and NJ Transit for an open house-style event to learn about project updates, see artistic images of the Greenway, share your thoughts and enjoy light refreshments. See details . Oct. 24, 30 and November 4, 12. at 6:30PM. Rutgers webinar series on environmental impacts from climate change. See flyer for details and click here to register. This Week's Featured Post Want to fix up your lawn the environmentally safe way? Click here . Other Interesting Articles National Wildlife Protection article: " Five Simple Ways to Create Habitat This Fall . " Article in The New York Times real estate section: " A Viable Alternative to Convention al Lawn? Cornell May Have Found One . " Washington Post: " A couple was sick of mowing. Now their wildflowers are a local attraction. " Op-Ed in The New York Times: "Turn the National Mall Into a Wildflower Meadow " Article in Environmental Journal: . "Anxiety and mood linked to bird diversity ." Article in The Cornell Lab : "After The Fire: How A Sustainable Ranch Survived A Natural Wildfire " Mission This committee's mission c enters on creating an Act of Restorative Kindness to our earth within our community. Members work to restore, improve and protect the quality of our environment with like minded community partners. This involves embracing new knowledge and science in the field of conservation and restoration as well as challenging current stan dards of beauty and landscape-care habits. Resources The Greenway Brookdale Park Conservancy Homegrown National Park ,Native Plan t S ociety of NJ Jersey-Friendly Yards Rebecca McMackin newsletter Montclair Bird Club Northeast Earth Coalition EPA: Comp o sting and Recycling Rutgers: New Jersey Climate Change Resource Center Committee Members Chair: Deborah Hirsch Committee: Kathy Bachmann, Andie Bertsche, Jacoba Coes, Karen DeLuca, Marie Donnelly, Susan Dumont, Karen Kadus, Anna Lee, Sydney Milliken, Sheila Curry Oakes, Imke Oster, Brigitte Padberg, Helene Peck, Maryellen Stadtlander, Wendy Stahl, Sonyia Woloshyn, Jane Wallace, Allyn Young, Sue Young ex officio Sarah J. Olson. by Jacoba Coes During the dog days of this sweltering summer, I escaped to Brookdale Park to walk my dog and discovered that it was significantly cooler walking in the park than around town. I figured the park climate had to do with the number of trees we are so lucky to have. A little research taught me that trees have cool powers. We’ve all taken cover under a tree for the shade but trees do even more to affect temperatures. Trees “transpire”. They absorb rainwater through their roots and then release it as vapor via the pores on their leaves, cooling the air. Areas with trees can be up to 10 degrees cooler than city streets. WHAT ELSE DID I DISCOVER IN MY RESEARCH? Trees remove fossil fuel emissions from our atmosphere - a third of worldwide emissions every year, in fact. This is known as carbon sequestration. A roadside tree can reduce indoor pollution by 50 per cent . Particulates land on the leaves and are absorbed by the tree along with the air they take in during the process of photosynthesis. Trees can reduce home heating/cooling energy use by up to 25% according to the US Energy Department . In our region, strategically planting trees based upon the prevailing wind and the sun’s path can maximize the sun’s warming power in winter, provide cooling power in summer by shading, and help influence the impact of the wind. And one of the coolest things about trees - studies show that the mere presence of trees in an urban environment appears to have a correlation to reducing aggression and violence . For more tree awesomeness check out this comprehensive list from the Arbor Day Foundation Newly inspired by how cool trees really are, I want to share a few ways we can help trees thrive. Help get more trees planted. Brookdale Park Conservancy plants trees every year to replace those we lost to storms and to create new areas of beauty. This year we will plant 50 trees - your donations directly fund this program. Advocate for more shade trees in your community. Zero in on the heat map to pinpoint opportunities. Take care of newly planted trees - review how to care for your baby tree . A key take away - watering slowly and longer will let the goodness sink into the ground. If there is a newly planted shade tree near you, help to water it. Support a healthy root system. This starts with exposing the root flare at the base of the trunk. It is part of the tree’s “lungs” and needs direct contact with the air to absorb oxygen. Burying the flare in soil or mulch suffocates the tree. Proper mulching is beneficial, but improper mulching is a tree killer . This video of Roger Cook at This Old House teaches you all about mulching correctly. While you adjust your mulch, consider being a sustainable gardener and mulch with fallen leaves. I hope these ideas take root and that you are inspired to help trees! FAMILY ACTIVITIES Volunteer at Brookdale Park. Learn about planting and caring for native plants, trees and our park. We have fun and are happy to work with volunteers of all ages, including for community service credit. Email info@brookdalepark.org to learn more. Back to main Environment section .

Donate a Brick to Avis Campbell Gardens CLICK HERE to donate a brick. 4" x 8" $200 8" x 8" $300 Pay by credit card or check. For over 70 years, the Garden Club of Montclair has lovingly maintained the Avis Campbell Gardens, our cherished historical gardens in Montclair located behind 60 South Fullerton Avenue (next to the library). Volunteers dedicate over 800 hours each season tending this hidden but public oasis , but the pathways have deteriorated over time, making it harder for visitors to fully enjoy this special space. As part of our 100th-anniversary celebration, we are launching a Pathway Renovation Project—and you can be a part of it! We invite you to leave your mark on this historical treasure of Montclair by donating an engraved brick to be incorporated into the new pathways between the gardens. Your contribution will help restore the paths, enhance accessibility and provide new benches for visitors to enjoy. Join us in preserving the beauty of the Avis Campbell Gardens for future generations. Donate today and become a part of this lasting legacy! The Garden Club of Montclair is a 501(c)(3) organization, and your donation is fully tax deductible. Your donation supports our ongoing service and restoration of the Avis Campbell Gardens. Disclaimer: The Garden Club of Montclair reserves the right to review and finalize all inscriptions. Should a inscription require revision, you will be contacted for assistance in submitting an alternative inscription. Questions? Ask at ACGbricks@gmail.com The Plan: Over the years, the pathways, last replaced between 1970-72, have become uneven, weed-prone, and unsafe for visitors and volunteers. The gardens' plastic edging has deteriorated, allowing the bricks to shift. The plan is to repair the existing pathways by leveling and resetting the bricks, incorporating new ones where needed, and adding polymeric sand for stability. Metal edging will be installed to secure the bricks. Additionally, benches will be placed for visitors to rest and enjoy the gardens.

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Garden Therapy Committee Reports Committees 2024-2025 — Susan Dumont, Chair; Karen Kadus, Vice Chair The Garden Therapy Committee organized four large events this year. Our programs were dedicated to the organization, Oasis, a haven for women and children, in Paterson, NJ. Our objective was to maximize our impact on a select group of participants, provide a sense of accomplishment, promote social interaction and improve a participant’s mood, sense of well-being, and satisfaction in a safe and supportive environment. An aromatherapy workshop opened our season of programs. Fragrant therapy jars were filled with lavender, dried roses, calendula and sunflower petals. February found us celebrating “Galentines’ Day” with a flower design workshop using floral themed material and roses. April’s workshop engaged participants in the technique of creating collages using dried flowers and leaves. Wrapping up our scheduled events for the season was the planting of the Oasis rooftop garden. We provided both planting guidance and education on horticulture care. Working side by side with the Oasis clients, 16 raised beds were successfully planted for a summer’s bounty of blooms! Members 2024-2025: Maria Matesanz, Betty Murphy, Sheila Curry Oakes, Sara H. Olson, Imke Oster, Floss O’Sullivan, Helene Peck, Patricia Rodio, Grete Scheidl, Wendy Stahl, Suzy Straten, Eugenie Temmler, Michele Tomasik, Susan van Inwegen, Jane Wallace, Sue Young. Provisionals. 2023-2024 — Susan Dumont, Chair; Karen Kadus, Vice Chair The Garden Therapy Committee organized four large events this season, engaging both Club members and clients in therapeutic activities. November found us gathered in the Garden Club room, where we created beautiful floral arrangements with a fall holiday theme for the Toni’s Kitchen dining tables. In-house dining had happily returned after a three-year Covid closing and it was a joy to be part of welcoming Toni’s clients back to their dining room to enjoy their meals. Aromatherapy, a new outreach program offered in February to our clients of Oasis, allowed them to take away a breath of spring after creating their fragrant therapy jars filled with lavender, dried roses, and sunflower petals. April found our volunteers meeting in Paterson to hold a flower design therapy session for members of the CUMAC community. Both men and women learned about basic design technique and then indulged in using five different types of flowers to create their own masterpieces. Our final event of the season in May found us back at Oasis to help clients plant herbs and annuals in 16 large rooftop planters. Providing both planting guidance and education on horticulture care, volunteers and clients worked side by side to install over 200 annuals and herbs! 2022-2023 — Sarah Olson, Chair; Susan Dumont, Vice Chair This season Garden Therapy continued to build relationships with organizations we worked with in the past and added outreach to several new facilities. We reinstated monthly deliveries of flower arrangements designed by our members for the nurses at Mountainside Hospital, to recognize their commitment to healthcare. Our very popular flower arranging workshops were held at The Cliffs at Eagle Rock and Freedom Village, both senior living facilities, as well as at Oasis - A Haven for Women and Children. We created almost 300 seasonal floral arrangements for our Sharon's Harvest Thanksgiving event for Toni's Kitchen patrons, and seasonal winter arrangements for Park Methodist food pantry patrons, and Human Needs Food Pantry shut-ins. And we got back in the dirt for our workshops with a visit to Freedom Village where we guided clients in creating windowsill herb gardens, and a repeat visit to Oasis to assist in planting their rooftop containers. 2021-2022 — Sarah Olson, Chair; Floss O'Sullivan, Vice Chair This season, Garden Therapy expanded outreach to serve additional populations. Our work included projects creating content to be used virtually, cheerful floral gifts for those high-risk groups that couldn't risk in-person contact, and, when appropriate, spreading cheer through active project engagement. September 2021 saw us working outdoors with a small group of clients at the Canterbury Village Senior Center, planting succulent cactus container gardens. In October, we began a new monthly program for the nurses at Mountainside Hospital to recognize their commitment to healthcare. GCM Members worked alone or in small groups to design a floral arrangement that was delivered to nursing stations at the hospital. Our outreach in October was leading a flower arranging workshop at Oasis; again, a huge success as we worked with 19 clients. We repeated our Thanksgiving event for Toni's Kitchen, with a new twist to honor GCM member Sharon Karlson. Renamed "Sharon's Harvest," we teamed up with Van Vleck House & Gardens "Good Grows Here" event. GCM Members sourced and prepped materials and then assisted families on the day of the event in the design of their flower arrangement. Over 180 arrangements were delivered to Toni's Kitchen. February saw the launch of our YouTube video, "Botanical Journeys." Beautiful botanical images were set to music for the enjoyment of seniors. GCM Members supplied and curated the photos and then created the video. Connections at Home, an organization that caters to "shut-ins," was one of the recipients. March and April were active with additional flower arranging workshops for two organizations: Nassan's Place, an autistic youth program, and Oasis. In addition, GCM Members made 100 May Day baskets for Canterbury Rehab Center in Cedar Grove. We got our hands dirty with our season wrap up on June 1st by planning and planting six raised rooftop containers at Oasis. Clients and GCM Members enjoyed planting annuals and herbs. Thank you to the Garden Therapy committee for all of your support this year. And a huge thank you to the Club membership for their enthusiastic support and participation in all of our events! 2020-2021 — Sarah Olson, Chair; Floss O'Sullivan, Vice Chair Like so many other aspects of our lives, the COVID-19 pandemic affected how Garden Therapy was able to operate and achieve its mission. Our face-to-face interactions with clients had to be curtailed but we were able to spread floral good cheer due to the terrific participation of our Club members. In September 2020, Club members prepared 60 bundles of flowers for Toni’s Kitchen which had become a food bank site for the community due to COVID-19. Much of the plant material was cut from the Club’s Avis Campbell Gardens. In November, the Club delivered a windowsill hydroponic edibles project to the seniors at Canterbury Village in West Orange so those who had been confined indoors for months could enjoy a garden brought to them. Our 2020 Thanksgiving project offered an abundance of beauty to the clients of Toni's Kitchen. Club members, with foliage from Avis Campbell Gardens, designed 150 Thanksgiving floral arrangements that were given to the clients. Our Club delivered 140 May Day flower baskets to the seniors at Job Haines in Bloomfield and Canterbury Rehab in Cedar Grove. After a winter of minimal in-person interaction, our members enjoyed the social, therapeutic affects of this outdoor work session, and the seniors were thrilled to receive the cheerful arrangements. Also in May, a small group of members assisted residents of First Montclair House in planting windowsill herb gardens. The residents enjoyed talking to fellow plant lovers and showing us their raised beds planted with vegetables. Thank you to the Garden Therapy committee members for all of your support this year: Betsy Burgess, Ellen Colton, Susan Dumont, Donna Karanja, Vicky Kearns, Maria Matesanz, Maureen Michaud, Helene Peck, Peg Scott-Fleming, Wendy Stahl, Patt Sullivan-Perry, and Sue Young. And a huge Thank You to the Club Membership for your enthusiastic support and participation in all of our events. 2019-2020 — Sarah Olson, Chair; Floss O'Sullivan, Vice Chair Garden Therapy reviewed its mission and established the goal of expanding its outreach to include not only nursing homes and assisted living facilities but other groups facing personal challenges or where garden therapy would make a positive impact. To that end we created new activities and reached out to more groups in a wider geographic network. In August, four GCM members played flower Bingo with eight residents at First Montclair House in Montclair. Amy South's Moss & More supplied the succulent plants that were awarded as prizes. Canterbury Village in West Orange was our destination in September. Eight GCM members assisted thirteen senior residents in crafting artificial floral arrangements in raffia pouches that would hang on their apartment doors. Residents made their own choices from our offering of artificial and dried flowers and live greens. Our group visited Job Haines in October. Seven members assisted nineteen senior residents in creating floral arrangements for their rooms.We worked with a combination of artificial and dried flower material as well as live greens. Residents were encouraged to select their own materials from the assortment brought by the Club. In November, we shifted gears and visited Oasis in Paterson, a domestic violence support center. Our mission was to teach and create live floral arrangements with their clients. Fran Ackerly led the demonstration and six additional GCM members assisted 14 clients with their creations. Everyone was able to take home their beautiful designs. Vases and flowers were generously donated by Bartlett's Florists . Eight GCM members visited SOFIA in Montclair in February and celebrated "Gal-entine's" Day with 11 clients at this domestic violence support facility by creating live floral arrangements that the ladies could take home with them. Susan Benner led the demonstration and taught the basics of floral design. Vases were donated by Bartlett's Florists . Our March event at The Safe House was canceled due to Covid-19. We want to thank all of the GCM members who participated in our events and are counting on your support as we accept the challenge of continuing our mission of outreach during the Covid-19 era. We are grateful for the Garden Club's warm support to expand our program this upcoming year.

Hospitality Committee Reports Committees 2024-2025 — Florence Sinofsky, Chair; Betty Murphy, Vice-Chair The Hospitality Committee had a vibrant year supporting the Garden Club’s mission through well-planned welcoming events. We provided breakfast and lunch for the judges at the Fall Flower Show, with Members generously contributing delicious and much-appreciated baked goods. We also ensured refreshments were available for Members after Program Meetings. Member participation was enthusiastic and dependable, and seeing everyone gathered around beautifully presented refreshments made us happy and proud. The Holiday Tea was a true highlight. Floral designers created stunning displays and vendors’ holiday gifts provided festive touches. The beautifully decorated home, creative displays, and generous sweet and savory contributions from Members made the event magical. The Annual Luncheon at the Glen Ridge Country Club was a resounding success. A later lunch allowed more time for enjoyable browsing and shopping. The event featured awards, floral centerpieces, and vendors in a lovely setting with attentive service. Members 2024-2025: Elizabeth Burgess, Carol Callahan, Karen Kadus, Kate Khachaturian, Dorothy Meissner, Janet Oscar, Gretchen Prater, Michele Quinn, Elizabeth Seebode-Zazzali, Cheryl Slutzky, Patt Sullivan-Perry. 2023-2024 — Michele Quinn, Chair; Betty Murphy, Vice Chair Hospitality had a very busy and deliciously successful year. The program meetings and competition events at Bnai Keshet throughout the year were well attended. The decision was made to have the buffet table available before and during the meetings so that cleanup did not happen too late in the day. As is our routine, every competition that was judged had coffee and a breakfast snack available for the judges and others who participated in the scoring. Our Holiday Tea was graciously hosted at Imke Oster’s beautiful house and many of our members, besides our committee members, brought fabulous sweets and savories that made the holiday spirit soar! Completing the year was a wonderful brunch at Glen Ridge Country Club. I enjoyed being Hospitality Chair for the last two years and couldn’t have done it without my co-chair Betty Murphy and my committee! It takes a village! 2022-2023 — Michele Quinn, Chair; Betty Murphy, Vice Chair The Hospitality Committee was pleased to serve the Judges breakfast prior to our monthly competitions and wonderful teas after the Club's program meetings held at Union Congregational Church. Thank you to our talented and hard-working committee for making all the treats to feast upon! A big thank you to Susan Brady for hosting our annual Holiday Tea at her beautiful home on December 14, 2022. We also thank our Tea/Coffee pourers and Past Presidents: Firth Fabend, Kate Khachaturian, Gretchen Prater, Susan Straten, and Connie Young. Club Members' delectable savories and sweets enhanced the tea table, their exquisite holiday floral designs graced throughout, and boutique vendors enticed us with festive gifts. The event was enjoyed and remembered by all and we look forward to welcoming everyone when programs commence in the fall. 2021-2022 — Janet Oscar, Chair; Gretchen Prater, Vice Chair We thank Gretchen Prater for hosting our annual Holiday Tea at her beautiful home on December 15th. It was so wonderful to see over sixty Members join us to begin the Holiday Season in such a beautiful setting. Thanks to our talented Members who contributed to the tea table, which offered a variety of delicious homemade savories and desserts: Barbara Baletti, Terri Breen, Betsy Burgess, Carol Callahan, Ellen Colton, Peggy Scott Fleming, Kate Khachaturian, Floss O'Sullivan, Patti Sullivan-Perry, Michele Quinn, Cheryl Slutzky, Michele Trevenen, Susan Yu. We also thank our Tea/Coffee pourers: Past Presidents Deborah Hirsch, Kate Khachaturian, Michele Quinn, Susan Straten, Sarah Stransky, and Karen Whitehaus. The Hospitality Committee was so pleased to serve breakfast items to the Judges and Clerks on March 21st, at our first in-person program meeting and Petite Flower Design competition at Union Congregational Church. At our April 25th meeting, our committee served savories and sweets prior to our evening meeting. We thank Karen Whitehaus for her assistance at the Church and we thank Nancy Stroud for assisting our committee. We are forever grateful to our President Florence Leyssène's leadership during the ever-changing conditions and circumstances of our times. We thank our Hospitality Committee Members for their participation in our Hospitality events throughout the year. We look forward to seeing everyone in person when we begin our programs in the fall. 2020-2021 — Janet Oscar, Chair; Gretchen Prater, Vice Chair This has been and exceptionally challenging year for everybody. Since we were not meeting in person, the Hospitality Committee thought it would be nice to remember our members who reside at Crane’s Mill with lovely Thanksgiving Baskets filled with homemade zucchini bread, dessert cart dreams along with nuts, cheese, and crackers. They were so appreciative that the Garden Club members remembered them at this time. Our Committee member, Terri Breen, came up with the clever idea of presenting photos of past Holiday Teas for our December Program on Zoom. Committee member, Floss O’Sullivan, did a fantastic job in presenting the slideshow. We also honored Helen Geyer who was a long time member of the GCM. We made a beautiful Easter Basket with quiche and homemade desserts and delivered it to our longtime member Eileen Butler. She was thrilled that we remembered her at this time, and sent her thanks and appreciation. The Hospitality Committee members were so pleased to finally have a chance to bake for Garden Club members at the Annual Awards Ceremony which was held in the beautiful Avis Campbell Gardens in May. Gretchen Prater, Vice Chair, and I thank our Hospitality Committee bakers Kate Khachaturian, Ginny Demoreuille, Cheryl Slutsky, Patt Sullivan-Perry, and Terri Breen who joined us in making their delicious treats. Terri Breen not only baked but assisted us in filling the sixty goody bags, and also helped with set up and clean up. In celebration of Connie Young’s 100 Birthday we sang 'Happy Birthday' and presented Connie with a birthday cake along with a beautiful floral arrangement from the Avis Campbell Gardens designed by Michele Tomasik. We thank all who participated in our Hospitality events throughout the year. We look forward to seeing everyone in person when we begin our Programs in the fall. 2019-2020 — Maureen Donahoe, Chair This was the first year we were working at Van Vleck and we started off with a bang! A fabulous homemade soup and pasta salad offering from Floss O'Sullivan, the Hospitality Captain for September, was complemented by loads of sweets and savories contributed by the Membership as we were introduced to what life would be like for us in our new home. In the following months the Captains continued our beloved tradition of providing lunches for our Judges, Clerks, and Program presenters, followed by tea, coffee, sweets and savories for our members and guests following the Monthly Program. We also had our first ever evening event after which we offered tea, coffee, sweets and savories to all the attendees. Once again, we were fortunate to have Sam help us in the kitchen during the Program teas. Our Captains did an amazing job and outdid themselves with fantastic meals until our get-togethers were shut down by Covid-19 in March. Our annual Holiday Tea was held in the beautiful Victorian home of Bob Chapman and Florence Sinofsky. There were fabulous holiday floral arrangements throughout the house which were contributed by several of our members. It was a lovely event and everyone who attended enjoyed socializing, the delicious treats, and the opportunity to shop with holiday vendors. Thank you to Charlene Connolly for sending out the invitations, Susan Benner for arranging for fabulous vendors, and Elizabeth Linder for helping out in the kitchen. The Hospitality Committee is grateful for the cooperative effort of our members who take on the task of being a Hospitality Captain and ensuring a wonderful lunch is presented to our guests. Thanks, as well, go out to the members who contribute sweets and savories for our monthly teas. Hopefully, we will be able to resume getting together in person in the near future when we will all be taken care of by our new Hospitality Chair, Janet Oscar.

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Awards – Other See also GCM awards . Award winner names from 1926-1986 are filed in the archives. 2022 Garden Club of New Jersey Yearbook 2021-22 — Award application by Editor, Claire Stepleton. Score 100%. Certificate of Merit with Gold Seal 1st Place YB-1 Yearbook (100-299 members). Website 2021-22 — Sue Young, 2st Vice President and Website Webmaster, and Sarah Stransky. Hanover Garden Club Trophy f or outstanding innovative project. Triangle Gardens (a CivicBeautification project since 1952). Award application by Susan Yu, TriangleGardens Chair, and Sarah Olson. GCNJSpecial Award/Large Club 2023 National Garden Club Arts & Flowers earned the National Garden Club's Flower Show Achievement Award, Certificate of Merit for a Standard Flower Show with a score of 98.5 out of a possible 100. Evaluators stated that the show was "spectacular" and "showcased the talent in design." Top Exhibitor Awards included: Award of Design Excellence: Michele Tomasik Tricolor Award: Michele Tomasik Designer's Choice Award: Tova Narrett Petite Award: Celia Radek Botanical Arts Design Award: Cynthia Corhan-Aitken Educational Award: Celia Radek Recognition Award: Sarah J. Olson Garden Club of New Jersey Mrs. David L. George Silver Cup: Finest judged Standad Flower Show 23-23 Garden Club RFD Trophy: Finest Standard Flower Show Schedule of 2022 Dorothy M. Schick Trophy: Excellence in stating a Standard Flower Show Myra Brooks Memorial Trophy - Creativity in Flower Arranging : Tova Narrett Paricia Grossi Petite Award Trophy: Celia Radek Mrs. Reginald Wilson Memorial Award: Michele Tomasik Garden Club of Montclair President’s Special Recognition Award : Sue Young 2021 National Garden Clubs, Inc. Yearbook 2020-21 — Award application by Celia Radek, Editor. Certificate of Commendation First Place YB-1 Yearbooks (100-299 members). Score 100% Virtual Flower Design Education 2021 — Award application by Workshop Chair, Floss O'Sullivan, Florence Leyssène, and Sarah Stransky. Certificate of Merit First Place and Overall Winner Award FD-2 (Aiv). Floral Design Program/Single Club Garden Club of New Jersey Yearbook 2021-21 — Award application by Celia Radek, Editor Certificate of Merit with Gold Seal YB-1 Yearbooks (100-299 members) Garden Therapy 2021 — Award application by Garden Therapy Chair, Sarah Olson, and Sarah Stransky. Myra Brooks Garden Therapy Trophy #15a Renovated Garden Therapy Program

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Committees Descriptions, Chairs, and Members Click on a committee button, or scroll down to read about them all. Avis Campbell Facilities Hospitality Awards Finance Membership Triangle Botanical Arts Flower Design Nominating Ways & Means Church Street Garden Boutique Open Gardens Workshops Civic/Environment Garden Therapy Program Communications Horticulture Properties Youth Avis Campbell Gardens Reports 2019-2025 Ana Zalles Moore, Chair; Wendy Stahl, Vice Chair; Barbara Meyer, Rose Chair Members 2025-2026: Olga Bequillard, Susan Dumont, Donna Karanja, Anne Kerr, Clare Kuch, Kem Louie, Maria Matesanz, Barbara Meyer, Debbie Moran, Tova Narrett, Sarah Olson, Celia Radek, Edith Ries, Maggie Rothman, Valerie Slamka, Grete Scheidl, Maureen Sprong, Michelle Tomasik, Michele Trevenen, Jane Wallace, Karen Whitehaus, Susan Yu, Lauren Zodel, and Provisionals. The Avis Campbell Gardens and Grounds Committee maintains the grounds and the display gardens located behind 60 S Fullerton Ave. The gardens are open to the public. Designed by landscape architect and Garden Club member Avis Campbell and installed in 1952, the gardens are inspired by the Wheel of Life and feature a pedestal fountain surrounded by roses and beds of flowering perennials and annuals. The grounds include a memorial to Essex County residents who lost their lives on September 11, 2001. Volunteers are welcome to join committee members who garden every Tuesday morning from April through mid-November. Awards Tova Narrett, Chair Members 2025-2026 : This group of members is responsible for managing which members receive Garden Club awards. Click here for the full list of awards and recipients since 1980. Member of this committee are appointed. Reports 2019-2025 Botanical Arts Reports 2019-2025 Florence Leyssène, Chair; Debbie Moran, Vice Chair Members 2025-2026 : Kathy Bachmann, Barbara Baletti, Karen DeLuca, Karen Fricke, Debbie Moran, Tova Narrett, Floss O’Sullivan, Susan van Inwegen. Recently joining the line-up of Club activities, Botanical Arts (BA) offers additional opportunity for creative expression and presentation of other types of horticulture, design and exhibits. Included under the BA umbrella are Botanical Horticulture, Botanical Design, Artistic Crafts, and Photography. Church Street Gardens (formerly Triangle Gardens) Reports 2019-2025 Kathy Bachmann, Chair; Maggie Rothman, Vice Chair Members 2025-2026: Charlene Connolly, Nancy Foster, Betty Murphy, Deborah Hirsch, Anna Lee, Sara Olson, Janet Oscar, Maggie Rothman, Valerie Slamka, Kathy Sorkin, Wendy Stahl, Nancy Stroud, Pamela Torre, Jane Wallace, Sue Young. Church Street Gardens include the raised planting beds along Church Street and the traffic circle at the corner of Valley Road, planted in the summer of 2025. Active and provisional Members plant in the spring and maintain through the summer and fall, turning downtown Montclair into an oasis that residents take for granted. The Business Improvement District partners with the club, supplying funds and maintenance assistance during the growing season. Civic/Environment Reports 2019-2025 Deborah Hirsch, Chair; Sarah Olson, Vice Chair Members 2025-2026 : Kathy Bachmann, Karen Carter, Jacoba Coes, Marie Donnelly, Susan Dumont, Karen Kadus, Anna Lee, Maria Matesanz, Sydney Milliken, Sheila Oakes, Sarah Olson, Imke Oster, Susan Straten, Jane Wallace, Sue Young. The mission of this Committee is to encourage environmentally responsible beautification of our town’s outdoor green spaces. This Committee’s goal is to act as a resource for individual and organizational stewardship for planning and plant selection and to provide physical help where appropriate. We will offer advice on ways to beautify town businesses and create floral displays when requested. We will search for existing gardens that exemplify sustainable practices and businesses whose plantings or containers show significant effort in the use of pollinator friendly and native plants. We will highlight these examples on social media and website platforms. We will interface with other committees of our club to learn, educate, and share ideas. Communications/Publicity Reports 2019-2025 Celia Radek, Chair; Sue Young, Vice Chair Members 2025-2026 : Janice Benton, Karen DeLuca, Deborah Hirsch, Tova Narrett, Tracy Reilly, Amy South, Allyn Young. Not only do we need to inform members of all our activities, but we need to reach out to new gardeners. This committee runs this website, blasts out social media, updates our history online and with an annual printable Yearbook, communicates with blog updates and emails, and links with the public and press through social media and event notifications. It also helps all committees with publicity and other communications requirements. Facilities Reports 2019-2025 Karen Whitehaus, Chair Member 2025-2026 : Deborah Hirsch. Members of this committee oversee the very important maintenance of the Club’s physical plant. They are responsible for maintaining the Club's meeting rooms, whether at 60 South Fullerton Avenue or elsewhere. Finance Reports 2019-2025 Bob Chapman, Chair; Vice Chair TBD Members 2025-2026 : Class of 2026—Nancy Stroud, Imke Oster; Ways & Means—Gretchen Prater (non-voting); Class of 2027—Lissa Barrett, Karen Kadus; President (ex officio)—Fran Ackerly. As in any organization, this committee is responsible for collecting dues, creating and managing a budget, and ensuring we meet all legal and ethical standards concerning our finances. Members are appointed. Flower Design Reports 2019-2025 Barbara Baletti, Chair; Florence Leyssène, Vice Chair Members 2025-2026: Fran Ackerly, Barbara Baletti, Susan Brady, Carol Callahan, Cynthia Corhan-Aitken, Karen Fricke, Florence Leysènne, Tova Narrett, Deborah Moran, Amy Poster, Michele Quinn, Cheryl Slutzky, Sarah Stransky, Flower Design is an integral component of the Garden Club. Monthly competitions provide opportunities for new and experienced designers to showcase their designs, receive feedback from judges, and earn ribbons and design credits. By attending the many workshops offered each year by our expert designers, members can improve their design skills, learn about the different design types, staging, and mechanics. Garden Boutique Reports 2019-2025 Susan Benner, Chair Members 2025-2026 : Susan Brady, Ellen Colton, Marie Donnelly, Susan Dumont, Dorothy Meissner, Sara Olson, Brigitte Padberg, Nancy Stroud. The Garden Boutique not only provides gardening and flower design tools, caps, aprons, and other eye-catching gifts to members, but it makes a profit and contributes to our annual budget. Our chair is always open to new ideas for items. Garden Therapy Reports 2019-2025 Olga Bequillard, Chair; Sheila Oakes, Vice Chair Members 2025-2026 : Fran Ackerly, Susan Benner, Betsy Burgess, Susan Dumont, Anna Lee, Maria Matesanz, Betty Murphy, Sara Olson, Imke Oster, Denise Silverman, Cheryl Slutzky, Wendy Stahl, Michele Tomasik, Jane Wallace. Garden Therapy is an opportunity to “give back” to the community with visits to nursing homes, senior centers, specialized schools and refuges. GC members work with institutions to design programs that will interest participants, ranging from hands on workshops such as aromatherapy, floral design, botanical arts and the planting of annuals, perennials and herbs in garden beds or windowsill planters. Horticulture Reports 2019-2025 Heidi Muschick, Chair; Susan Straten, Vice Chair Members 2025-2026 : Jacoba Coes, Celia Radek, Denise Silverman. Horticulture involves the cultivation of fruits, flowering plants, vegetables, and ornamental plants with opportunities for members to exhibit specimens from their gardens or potted plants from their homes. Hospitality Reports 2019-2025 Florence Sinofsky, Chair; Betty Murphy, Vice Chair Members 2025-2026 : Betsy Burgess, Carol Callahan, Charlene Connolly, Karen Kadus, Dorothy Meissner, Betty Murphy, Amy Poster, Michele Quinn, Elizabeth Seebode-Zazzali, Pat Sullivan-Perry, Cheryl Slutzky. One of our three goals is "Fellowship," and the Hospitality Committee ensures that it is never far from any Club event. Our members look forward to the tradition of delicious lunches, teas, and all kinds of comforting fare conjured — apparently — out of nowhere. Membership Reports 2019-2025 Cheryl Slutzky, Chair; Susan Dumont, Vice-Chair Members 2025-2026 : Sarah Olson, Brigitte Padberg, Kathy Sorkin, Sue Young. This committee is responsible for recruiting and welcoming new members and managing all aspects of membership in the Club. Nominating Reports 2019-2025 Marie Donnelly, Chair Members 2025-2026: Barbara Baletti, Susan Benner, Karen Fricke, Sarah Olson, Florence Sinofsky, Fran Wong; Membership (ex officio)—Cheryl Slutzky; President (ex officio)—Fran Ackerly. The Nominating Committee prepares slates of candidates for Club officers and fills vacancies should they occur. Members of this committee are appointed. Open Gardens Reports 2019-2025 Marilyn Zaret, Moderator Connecting our Members, Open Gardens provides an opportunity to share knowledge and creativity. With friends included, these periodic social gatherings continue to expand in popularity, and serve as outreach to our community. Program Reports 2019-2025 Cynthia Cohan-Aitken, Chair; Karen Fricke, Vice Chair Members 2025-2026 : Barbara Baletti, Charlene Connolly, Sydney Milliken, Amy Poster, Sarah Stransky. Program meetings are held monthly from September to April for members and guests. Speakers come with an extensive knowledge of gardening, flower design and horticulture as well as topics as varied as the history of Essex County parks, color theory, tree therapy, and the relationship of the fashion industry to gardening. Properties Reports 2019-2025 Pam Turre, Chair; Melody Brown, Vice Chair Member 2025-2026 : Angel Pollack These behind-the-scenes troupers are responsible for making sure our exhibitions and shows have the right equipment to make everything run smoothly. Ways & Means Susan Benner, Chair; Olga Bequillard, Vice Chair Members 2025-2026 : Cynthia Corhan-Aitken, Marie Donnelly, Deborah Hirsch, Anna Lee, Janet Oscar, Amy Poster, Cheryl Slutzky, Amy South, Susan Straten, Nancy Stroud, Michele Trevenen, Marilyn Zaret, This committee searches for ways to generate revenue to support the various club projects. Reports 2019-2025 Workshops Reports 2019-2025 Karen Fricke, Chair; Tova Narrett, Vice Chair Members 2025-2026 : Barbara Baletti, Susan Brady, Florence Leysenne, Dorothy Meissner, Barbara Meyer. Workshops are organized throughout the year to help members — provisionals in particular — learn about flower design, cultivating and exhibiting horticulture specimens, as well as other topics related to gardening. Youth Reports 2019-2025 Jacoba Coes, Chair; Susan Yu, Vice Chair Members 2025-2026 : Nancy Foster, Sarah Olson, Susan Straten, Allyn Young. This committee is unique — offering the opportunity to spark the same enthusiasm that brought us to join the Garden Club in a new generation. Through activities that introduce young people to the basic principles of gardening, design, ecology, and conservation we hope to encourage participants to develop a life-long love of gardens, a direct appreciation of horticulture's therapeutic effects and an understanding of the importance of plants to our planet.

Our Mission The Garden Club of Montclair educates Members and the public in their knowledge and practice of conservation, horticulture, and the artistic use of plant material. We work to beautify the Township of Montclair and the State of New Jersey. The Club sponsors and supports projects of an educational character, specifically allied to these purposes, and fosters fellowship through its work and its social activities. Club Member Benefits Programs : Members and their friends enjoy renowned speakers, authors, and experts on notable gardens, original flower design techniques, pollinator cultivation, and community outreach through gardening. Workshops : Members and Provisionals have the opportunity to gain knowledge and experience in Horticulture, Floral Design, and Botanical Arts by attending these workshops. Members and Provisionals only, unless indicated otherwise. Materials fees may apply. Avis Campbell Gardens and Grounds : Located at 60 S. Fullerton Avenue in Montclair, Avis Campbell Gardens is maintained by Club Members and is a beautiful space open to the public. Learn from our masterful gardeners and get hands-on experience. Community Outreach via Garden Therapy, Triangle Gardens, and Youth Organizations : Opportunities abound to beautify our town by planting at Church Street and sharing flower design/gardening techniques with charitable organizations. Help harvest at Avis Campbell Gardens to create Thanksgiving arrangements for Toni's Kitchen and other food pantry clients. Members partner with Scouts and schoolchildren in garden related activities. Open Gardens : Serving as a connection among our Membership, Open Gardens provides an opportunity to share knowledge and creativity. With friends included, these periodic social gatherings continue to expand in popularity and serve as outreach to our community. Garden Boutique : The Garden Boutique offers unique flower arranging, gardening, and related items for sale. Holiday Tea, Annual Awards Celebration, Clip, Dip & Sip in ACG : Enjoy social gatherings that build camaraderie among Members, share successes and experiences with one another, and appreciate floral displays and our beautiful gardens. 2024 -2025 Fees and Annual Dues Active Member : $100 Associate Member: $125 Non-Resident Member: $ 50 Provisional: $100 Emeritus: $0 Guest Fee: Donations welcome

Facilities Committee Reports Committees 2024-2025 — Karen Whitehaus, Chair The Club is grateful to have had access to its customary space on the lower level of 60 South Fullerton Avenue for most of this past year, while renovations continued in other parts of the building. During this time, Board Meetings and Committee Meetings were held either in the room connected to the Auditorium or the Garden View Room on the first floor, and Program Meetings were held either in the Auditorium or the Garden Club room on the lower level. The Club had been asked to share its space with the Township of Montclair’s Senior Group; that request appears to no longer be an expectation. The easily accessible storage room on the lower level was painted and new storage racks and containers were purchased. Avis Campbell Gardens continue to thrive and allow easy access to the compost area and two storage sheds immediately adjacent to the parking area. 2024-2025 Committee: Deborah Hirsch, Christine James 2023-2024 — Kate Khachaturian, Chair The Garden Club of Montclair held its monthly program meetings at the Bnai Keshet synagogue on South Fullerton Avenue. Monthly board meetings were held in the first floor Garden View room at 60 South Fullerton Avenue in Montclair. The downstairs Garden Club room was occasionally used for workshops and to store different items for Flower Design, Horticulture, and Botanical Arts committees. The building has been sold to a new owner, Placek Family Foundation. We have been assured that at some point in the future we will be able to return to the building. Renovations have begun; however, it is unclear as to when we will be able to move back in. 2022-2023 — Kate Khachaturian, Chair The Garden Club of Montclair was pleased to consistently meet in person again throughout 2022-2023. Our Club continued to hold Program meetings at Union Congregational Church in Upper Montclair. The members seemed pleased with its adequate space for Floral Design, Horticulture entries, our new Botanical Arts category, and our usual tea and refreshments. Board meetings were held in the Garden View Room on the first floor at 60 S. Fullerton Ave. in Montclair. We continue to use the Garden Club Room in the basement for Workshops and if weather permits, Avis Campbell Gardens. Clarence Booker now maintains our space and cleans when necessary. 2021-2022 — Kate Khachaturian, Chair In 2021-22, The Garden Club of Montclair continued to hold both Board meetings and Program meetings via zoom due to COVID-19. In early 2022, we began holding workshops at 60 South Fullerton in the Garden Club room. In the spring of 2022, we held two program meetings at Union Congregational Church. The annual awards luncheon was held in Avis Campbell Gardens. For the upcoming year of 2022-23, our meeting place will likely be determined by the course of the COVID-19 pandemic. Our Club continues to thrive despite these difficult conditions. 2020-2021 — Kate Khachaturian, Chair In the year 2020–21 the COVID pandemic continued to rage. Consequently, all Garden Cub meetings were held via Zoom. We were fortunate on May 26 to hold our Annual Awards Meeting in the Avis Campbell Gardens. Due to on-site construction of the United Way building, we will continue in the to hold our meetings via Zoom. We hope to resume our meetings in the Garden Club room in 2022. 2019-2020 — Kate Khachaturian, Chair To say this year has been unusual and challenging would be an understatement. We began the year holding our meetings at Van Vleck House and Gardens due to the fact that the United Way Building was anticipating major renovations. We are very grateful to Van Vleck for its gracious hospitality. In the beginning of 2020,Covid-19 decided to pay a visit to the US and in March required a mandated lockdown. For the rest of the spring all events and Programs were canceled. Board meetings were conducted via Zoom. Thank goodness for technology! Because Workshops were still being conducted in the fall of 2019, the Facilities Committee did maintain the Garden Club room. I wish to thank my Facilities Committee members, Susan Straten and Janice Benton, and the Club Membership for their patience during this difficult time.

Flower Design Schedule See summary chart of monthly schedules below with details underneath the chart. See Flower Design Rules for 2025-2026. Check Workshops for assistance. See also NGC Handbook for Flower Shows . No December competitions. See Flower Show 2024 . See Flower Show 2022 . See Clerking Guidelines. Need a refresher prior to GCM's monthly competitions? We have online videos to help, featuring Florence Leyssène and Debbie Moran, NGC accredited Master Flower Show Judges. Romeo & Juliet February 23, 2026 Register with Barbara Baletti by February 19 Tea Table: TBD All tables are covered with ivory tablecloths. Wall background is an off-white curtain. No green floral foam may be used in any design. Provisional An American Traditional Horizontal Line Design See Handbook for Flower Shows , pp.70-71 . Staged on a shelf 43” from the floor. Frame of reference: 14”W x 12”D. Novice An American Traditional Design, i n the manner of the Italian Renaissance See Handbook for Flower Shows , p.69 . Staged on a shelf 30" high. Frame of reference: 24"W x 24"D; no height restriction; two-dimentional staging panel and underlay required. Designer's choice of plant material and components. Intermediate A Parallel Design See Handbook for Flower Shows , p.75. S taged on a table 30” high. Frame of reference: 24”W x 24”D; no height restriction; two-dimensional staging panel and matching underlay required. Designer’s choice of plant material and components. Advanced A Multi-Rhythmic Design See Handbook for Flower Shows , p.75. Staged on a dark green pedestal 42” high with a 14” square top provided by committee. Frame of reference: design may not exceed 6” beyond pedestal top in any horizontal direction; no height restriction. Underlay permitted, not to exceed pedestal top. Designer’s choice of plant material and components. Advanced Plus An Assemblage Design See Handbook for Flower Shows , p.77. Staged on a table 42” high. Frame of reference: 24”W x 24”D; no height restriction; two-dimensional staging panel and matching underlay required. Designer’s choice of plant material and components. Reduce, Reuse, Recycle March 23, 2026 Register with Barbara Baletti by March 19. Tea Table: TBD All tables are covered with ivory tablecloths. Wall background is an off-white curtain. No green floral foam may be used in any design. Provisional An American Traditional Mass Design See Handbook for Flower Shows , p.71 . (3) Staged on a shelf 43" from the floor. Frame of reference: 14"W x 12"D. Novice An American Traditional Horizontal Line Design See Handbook for Flower Shows , p.71 . (b) Staged on a table 30" high. Frame of reference: 24'W x 24"D. Underlay required. Intermediate A Multi-Rhythmic Design See Handbook for Flower Shows , pp.73-75 Staged on a table 42” high. Frame of reference 24”W x 24”D, staged in front of a two-dimensional staging panel with matching underlay provided by exhibitor. No height restriction. Designer’s choice of plant material and components (may be recycled.) Advanced A Creative Design Using at least three floral techniques specified in the Handbook for Flower Shows, pp.81-83, staged on a dark green pedestal 42”H with a 14” square top provided by committee. Frame of reference: design may not exceed 6” beyond pedestal top in any horizontal direction. No height restriction; underlay permitted, not to exceed pedestal top. Designer’s choice of plant material and components (may be recycled). Advanced Plus A Panel Design See Handbook for Flower Shows , p.75 Staged on a table 42” high. Frame of reference: 24”W x 24” D; two-dimensional staging panel with matching underlay required; staging panel will determine height of frame of reference, not exceeding 48”. Designer’s choice of pant material and components (may be recycled.) Practice Makes Perfect April 27, 2026 Register with Barbara Baletti by April 17. Tea Table: TBD All tables are covered with ivory tablecloths. Wall background is an off-white curtain. No green floral foam may be used in any design. Provisional An American Traditional Design of your choice. See Handbook for Flower Shows , pp.70-71 Staged on a shelf 43” from the floor. Frame of reference: 14"W x 12"D. Novice An American Traditional Design interpreting of a work of art. Exhibitor to provide a 5” x 7” picture/photo of the artwork with the name of the artist and the title of the work and supported by an easel provided by committee; staged on a table 30” high. Frame of reference: 24”W x 24”D staged in front of a two-dimensional staging panel with a matching underlay provided by exhibitor. No height restriction. Intermediate A Design, Freedom of Style and Type interpreting of a work of art. Exhibitor to provide a 5” x 7” picture/photo of the artwork with the name of the artist and the title of the work and supported by an easel provided by committee; staged on a table 30” high. Frame of reference: 24”W x 24”D staged in front of a two-dimensional staging panel with a matching underlay provided by exhibitor. No height restriction. Designer's choice of plant material and components. Advanced A Design, Freedom of Style and Type interpreting of a work of art. Exhibitor to provide a 5” x 7” picture/photo of the artwork with the name of the artist and the title of the work and supported by an easel provided by committee; staged on a table 43” high. Frame of reference: 24”W x 24”D staged in front of a two-dimensional staging panel with a matching underlay provided by exhibitor. No height restriction. Designer's choice of plant material and components. Advanced Plus A Design, Freedom of Style and Type interpreting of a work of art. Exhibitor to provide a 5” x 7” picture/photo of the artwork with the name of the artist and the title of the work and supported by an easel provided by committee; staged on a dark green pedestal 42" high with a 14" square top povided by the committee. Frame of reference: design may not exceed 6" beyond pedestal top in any horizontal direction. No height restriction. Underlay permitted, not to exceed pedestal top. Designer's choice of plant material and components. Farm to Table October 20, 2025 Register with Barbara Baletti by October 16. Tea Table: TBD All tables are covered with ivory tablecloths. Wall background is an off-white curtain. No green floral foam may be used in any design. Provisional A Companion Design * See Handbook for Flower Shows , p .79. Staged on a shelf 43” from the floor. Frame of reference 14”W x 12”D; no height restriction. Exhibit is critiqued only. Fresh and dried fruits, nuts vegetables are permitted. Cut fruits and vegetables are not permitted. * This is a design in which two exhibitors work together to create a single design, where a more experienced designer (chosen by the Provisional) mentors/encourages the Provisional. Novice An American Traditional Design in the Form of a Triangle See Handbook for Flower Shows , p p.70-71. Staged on a table 30” high. Allowable space 24”W x 18”D; no height restriction. Underlay required. Fresh and dried fruits, nuts vegetables are permitted. Cut fruits and vegetables are not permitted. Intermediate An American Traditional Vertical Line-Mass Design See Handbook for Flower Shows , p .70. Staged on a dark green pedestal 42” high with a 14” square top provided by committee. Frame of reference: design may not exceed 6” beyond pedestal top in any horizontal direction; no height restriction; underlay optional, not to exceed pedestal top. Fresh and dried fruits, nuts vegetables are permitted. Cut fruits and vegetables are not permitted. Advanced A Creative Line Design See Handbook for Flower Shows , p .74. Staged on a table 42” high; Frame of reference 24”W x 24”D; staged in front of a two-dimensional staging panel with matching underlay provided by exhibitor. Designer’s choice of plant material and components. Fresh and dried fruits, nuts vegetables are permitted. Cut fruits and vegetables are not permitted. Advanced Plus An Exhibition Table See Handbook for Flower Shows , p .76 Staged on a table 30” high. Frame of reference 30”W x 24”D staged using a two-dimensional staging panel with matching underlay provided by exhibitor; no height restriction. Designer’s choice of plant material and components. Fresh and dried fruits, nuts, vegetables are permitted. Cut fruits and vegetables are not permitted. Color Harmonies November 17, 2025 Register with Barbara Baletti by November 13. Tea Table: TBD All tables are covered with ivory tablecloths. Wall background is an off-white curtain. No green floral foam may be used in any design. Provisional An American Traditional Mass Design in the Shape of a Triangle See Handbook for Flower Shows , pp.70-71 . Staged on a shelf 43” from the floor. Frame of reference: 12”W x 12”D. No height restriction. Novice A Companion Design featuring an American Traditional Vertical Line-Mass See Handbook for Flower Shows , p .79. This is a design in which two exhibitors work together to create a single design, where a more experienced designer encourages/mentors a novice designer. Novice must choose her mentor. Staged on a dark green pedestal 36” high with a 14” square top provided by committee. Frame of reference: design may not exceed 6” beyond pedestal top in any horizontal direction. No height restriction; underlay permitted, not to exceed pedestal top. Intermediate An American Traditional Line Design in a Monochromatic Color Harmony An American Traditional Line Design in a Monochromatic Color Harmony; one color (hue) and all its related tints, tones, and shades, excluding pure achromatic colors (black, white, gray). (See Handbook for Flower Shows , p. 64, II A 5a.). Frame of reference: staged on a table 30”high in front of a 2-dimensional staging panel 24”Wx 30”H with matching underlay provided by exhibitor. Designers choice of plant materials . Advanced A Creative Mass Design in an Analogous Color Harmony: two or more colors adjacent on the color wheel using only one primary color (red, yellow, blue). (HB p.65, II A 5b) staged on table 42” H. Frame of reference: 24”W x 24” D, staged in front of a 2-dimensional staging panel with matching underlay provided by exhibitor; no height restriction. Designer’s choice of plant material and components. Advanced Plus A Cascade Design in a Direct Complimentary Color Harmony: colors opposite each other on the color wheel (Handbook for Flower Shows p.65,IIA 5c. ) ) staged on a 42” pedestal with a 16” round top provided by committee. Frame of reference: design may not exceed 6” beyond pedestal top in any horizontal direction. No height restriction, underlay permitted, not to exceed pedestal top. Designers choice of plant material and components. Small Wonders February 2, 2026 (rescheduled from January 26.) Register with Barbara Baletti by January 29. Tea Table: TBD All tables are covered with ivory tablecloths. Wall background is an off-white curtain. No green floral foam may be used in any design. Provisional An American Traditional Vertical Line Design See Handbook for Flower Shows p.71. Frame of reference: staged on a shelf 43” from the floor. Allowable space 14”W x 12”D. No height restriction. Novice An American Traditional Petite American Design See Handbook for Flower Shows p.73. Frame of reference: staged on a black cube 9”x 9“x9“ on a table 30” high. Underlay optional Intermediate A Petite Design, Freedom of Style and Type See Handbook for Flower Shows p.73. Frame of reference: 10”H x 8”W x 8”D, staged on a black shelf approximately 42” from the floor. Exhibitor must provide staging panel and underlay. Designer’s choice of plant material and components. Advanced A Petite Transparency Design See Handbook for Flower Shows p.73. Frame of reference: 12”H x 10”W x10”D staged on a table 42” high. Exhibitor must provide staging panel and matching underlay. Designer’s choice of plant material and components. Advanced Plus A Petite Design, Freedom of Style and Type See Handbook for Flower Shows p.73. Frame of reference: staged in a lighted box. 58 1/2" from the floor: inside measurements 7"H x 6"D. Interior of box must be covered by exhibitor. taged on a table 30” high. Designer's choice of plant material. (Limited to 5 entries.)