On the final day of Landis’ Fall Plant Sale, among the rows of trees, shrubs, and perennials, families enjoyed Community Day, yet another event in the Arboretum’s year-long 75th anniversary commemoration.
Our newly paved walkway in the plant sale area was decorated with brightly colored chalk art created by kids, guided by Board trustees Chandra Burkhart and Morgan McClary. Morgan also staffed an informational booth about upcoming Halloween- themed and family-friendly “haunted history” tours in the area.
At the Shanti Vun Peace Garden pavilion, science educator George Steele conducted a nature bandana workshop. A few families played cornhole. Another group followed Nick Miller and Executive Director Fred Breglia on a hike along the Native Plant Trail. Fred demonstrated pruning techniques along the route. Some on the tour had never realized such a thoroughly inviting forest existed just a half hour from where they lived!
In the bake sale area, free hot dogs and punch were offered to everyone by The Creative Connoisseur. Nearby, the Esperance Historical Society booth displayed a giant Schoharie Chocolate Jumble cookie. Why a cookie? A historic marker in downtown Esperance credits the creation of that treat to a local bakery.
For those purchasing plants at the sale, Landis’ Scout Troop 501 members assisted by bringing their purchases to their cars in the parking lot. The troop also sold popcorn as a fundraiser, and the Scouts personally greeted participants at the entry gate.
The Book Barn hosted award winning children’s book author Anita Sanchez. Did you purchase your own signed copy?
A handmade diamond-patterned quilt, another nod to Landis’ 75th “diamond” anniversary, was the highlight of the raffle booth (the winner, drawn at the Volunteer Appreciation Luncheon, was Nicole Horst). Also included were several baskets, including a honey-themed basket won by Ken Jones, a family fun themed basket won by Lisa Whitman, and a garden and a bird themed basket won by Megan Rooney.
An early morning rain watered the sale plants. Gardeners smiled. The sun broke through in time for the Community Day events, and smiles were seen all around once again. Another special day at Landis and perhaps the start of another Arboretum tradition.