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, and the personal journeys of some of our Committee members, explaining what convinced them to be part of this movement. First up is Jacoba Coes. News January 7: Our Club has joined 80 other groups in support of active work to pass a bottle deposit return law in N J. If passed, the Governor has indicated that he will sign it. Events April 6, 9:00 am - 4:30 pm: 8th Annual Conference: "Acting Locally for a More Sustainable World Conference" at MSU. To find out more and to register, click here . This Week's Featured Articles TAPintoMontclair: " Montclair Resident Named Winner of the Governor’s Environmental Excellence Award " 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 " Why I joined the Environment Committee by Jacoba Coes The Homegrown National Park movement started by Doug Tallamy is based on this fact: in the US lawns are approximately 40 million acres — national parks are less than 20 million acres. To support environmental diversity the movement seeks to convert parts of our yards to native gardens creating a vast interconnected habitat across the US. This idea inspires me. Starting in the 2000s we transformed our garden. We have added more native plants, use compost (not mulch), use drip irrigation (not sprinklers) and diversified our lawn. We simplified fall clean up using all the leaves in the flower beds and leaving flower stalks standing thus providing insect habitat, winter food for birds and fertilizer. 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 Homegrown National Park ,Native Plan t S ociety of NJ Jersey-Friendly Yards Montclair Bird Club Northeast Earth Coalition EPA: Comp o sting and Recycling Rutgers: New Jersey Climate Change Resouce Center Committee Members Chair: Deborah Hirsch Committee: Andie Bertsche, Jacoba Coes, Marie Donnelly, Karen Fricke, Karen Kadus, Nancy Loo, Sydney Milliken, Sheila Oakes, Imke Oster, Sarah Stransky, Su zy Straten, M ichele Trevenen, Sue Young, ex officio Sarah J. Olson. I joined the Environment Committee because I believe we must expand natives and natural practices to all our yards and our organization and must also influence change in public spaces. Join in and grow your own slice of the homegrown national park! Sites to support your efforts: Homegrown National Park ,Native Plant Society of NJ , and Jersey-Friendly Yards . I have learned esthetically to embrace how the native garden moves and changes year to year and much prefer that to the prior controlled landscape. I love tha t my yard hums with diverse flora and fauna! Decidedly not a purist, I still have bulbs, peonies, lavender, roses — all non natives — because I love those. But those plants are not invasive and they provide high quality nectar/pollen. The ecological benefit of a plant is now as important to me as its color.

Horticulture Divisions Rules 2023-2024 Back to main Horticulture page See also the National Garden Club Handbook for Flower Shows See Clerking Guidelines Members and Provisionals are encouraged to enter Horticulture specimens at monthly Horticulture Competitions. Points accumulate toward The President's Award for Horticulture . Horticulture Committee Members are available to consult. RULES The NGC Exhibiting Policies are printed in the Handbook for Flower Shows , Chapter 6 "Exhibiting in the Horticulture Division." The rules for a single species cut specimen are listed in the Handbook for Flower Shows . In order to receive a top award, the exhibitor must identify their entry by its binomial name or currently acceptable scientific designation. Consult the Handbook for Flower Shows , Chapter 6. Entry cards are to be filled out in waterproof black/blue ink or pencil in advance if possible. Refer to the Handbook for Flower Shows , p. 57 for a correctly filled out entry card. Address labels may be used for exhibitor information. Entry cards are available from Horticulture Chairs, Michele Trevenen and Karen Whitehaus, and at registration. Cut specimens should not have foliage below the water line, except for gladiolas. If a plant is considered a flowering plant, it should be exhibited as a flowering specimen. Specimens with a class designation in the schedule may not be entered in the "Any other worthy named specimen" class. The Horticulture Classification Chair and/or the Horticulture Committee Chairs are free to subdivide classes by color, form, size, cultivar, variety, or other distinguishing characteristics. The Scale of Points for Horticulture is located in Chapter 14, pp. 129-130 of the Handbook for Flower Shows . All plant material must be fresh and have been grown by the exhibitor. Plant material must be in its natural state and may not be altered by application of oil, commercial shine products, etc. that change the natural appearance. No wiring of specimens is permitted. Only foliage and/or flowers naturally grown and still attached to the specimen are permitted. Unattached foliage is never included with a cut bloom specimen. Cut specimens of annuals, biennials, and perennials must have been in exhibitor's possession for ninety (90) days and grown to maturity from seeds, cuttings, or immature plants. Bulbous blooms must have been in the exhibitor's possession from planting of bulb/tuber/corm/rhizome or it must have been cared for as a mature plant for ninety (90) days. All entries should be labeled by genus, specific epithet and/or variety, or patented trademark name. Common name additionally may be given. The Horticulture Committee will provide containers and wedging material for cut specimens. Pre-registration with Horticulture Entries Chair, Karen Whitehaus (parlonny@comcast.net ) is required via email or phone by Thursday prior to competition date. Exhibitor may make more than one entry per class if each entry is a different species, variety, cultivar, type, or color. Entries must first be passed by Classification. Placement Committee will place exhibits, with the exception of Section E, Class 22, which will be placed by the exhibitor. Specimens may be placed between 8:15 and 9:15am on the day of the competition. Judging will begin promptly at 10am. Specimens arriving late will not be judged. Specimens must be picked up no later than 30 minutes after the end of the program meeting, approximately 3:00pm. ​

Programs Every month we get together for a wide-ranging and unusual set of programs — usually a lecture from an outside expert — organized by our inquisitive and knowledgeable Programs Committee. See the schedule below for this year's offerings. As events pass, they move to the bottom of the page. Haute Couture to Horticulture Bnai Keshet Monday, April 15, 2024, 6-8:30pm "Clothes aren't going to change the world. The women who wear them are." – Anne Klein We have amongst our members, a surprising number of women who have found their way to the glories of gardening after (or during!) careers in the garment industry. Is there a correlation between fashion and flora? On Monday, April 15, as early as 5:30PM, we will gather at B’nai Keshet for an evening program to hear from four of them: Cynthia Corhan-Aitken, Sidney Milliken, Tova Narrett, and Lauren Zodel. Each designer will display a garment that represents her niche in the industry, as well as a floral design, inspired by her garment. She will share reflections on her career in the world of fashion, and ruminate on how she transferred that same creativity to the world of gardening and floral design. Join us for a festive evening as these four members share their fascinating journeys from hemlines to hellebores. Swap & Share with Committee Leaders Union Congregational Church Monday, September 18, 2023, 6-8:30pm Members, both new and old, will learn what each of our hardworking committees hopes to accomplish this year, and we'll share ideas on a variety of projects that are the heart and soul of the Club. Upcycle your design items and gently used gardening tools and swap for repurposed treasures donated from other Members. The Spirit of Stonescaping: Ideas for Your Garden Bnai Keshet Monday, October 16, 2023, 12:30-3pm See report of the event. Rediscover natural stone as a durable and sustainable landscaping element. Jan Johnsen will share creative and practical ways you can use natural stone in the garden; from rock gardens to dry streams, and as benches, paths, and more. See Jan's suggested plant list (members only). Jan Johnsen is a Principal at Johnsen Landscapes and Pools , as well as an award-winning landscape designer and author. Artistic Flourishes: Pots With a Purpose Bnai Keshet Monday, November 13, 2023, 12:30-3pm See report of the event. Explore the exciting world of container gardening, as Dan Benarcik shares his knowledge about styles, techniques, types of containers, and favorite plants. ​ Dan Benarcik is a Horticulturalist at Chanticleer Garden in Wayne, PA. He oversees the Courtyard Gardens and shares his passion for horticulture and landscape design as an international consultant, speaker, and writer. Color, Color Perception, and Colorful Plants for the Garden Bnai Keshet Monday, January 22, 2024, 12:30-3pm See report of the event. Gain a deeper understanding of color perception and theory, in order to create vibrant and seasonal outdoor spaces, as Kelley Forsyth takes us on a visual tour of her favorite colorful shrubs and perennials. With a Master's Degree in Landscape Archtecture and over 20 years as a professional landscape designer, Kelley Forsyth is the Horticulturalist at Branch Brook Park. Ask the Arborist: Keeping Trees and Shrubs Healthy Bnai Keshet Monday, February 12, 2024, 12:30-3pm See report of the event. Keep trees and shrubs healthy by understanding signs of plant decline. Brian Rombough will explain how he diagnoses and corrects typical health issues, especially emerald ash borer, bacterial leaf scorch, and the spotted lanternfly Brian Rombough is a Licensed Tree Expert in New Jersey and also a Certified Arborist and co-owner of American Tree Experts, Inc. Restoring, Rescuing, and Rehabilitating Our Nation's Public Gardens Bnai Keshet Monday, March 25, 2024, 12:30-3pm Discover with Horatio Joyce the story of The Garden Conservancy and the evolution of its mission to restore, rescue, and rehabilitate public gardens — and to facilitate opening private gardens to the public Horatio Joyce is the Director of Public Programs and Education at The Garden Conservancy, and oversees one of its most beloved programs, Open Days.

Horticulture Schedule See monthly schedule, below. As events pass, they are moved to the bottom of the page. Refer to 2023-2024 Horticulture Rules . Check Workshops for assistance. Watch the video (requires logging on to the page) featuring Debbie Moran, NGC Accredited Master Flower Show Judge, introducing the basics of selecting and exhibiting Horticulture specimens. ​See also our other instructional videos and handouts . See clerking guidelines April 2024 Schedule April 15, 2024 Monthly Theme: Dawn Register with Karen Whitehaus by Thursday, April 11. ​ Class 1: Tulipa (Tulip): 1 cut specimen with two attached leaves. Class 2: Narcissus (Daffodils/Jonquils): 1 cut specimen. Class 3: Muscari (Grape Hyacinths): 3 cut specimens. Class 4: Hyacinthus orientalis (Hyacinths): 1 cut specimen. Class 5: Any other Flowering Bulbs, Corms, or Tuber: 1 specimen if large; 3 specimens if small. Class 6: Flowering Perennials: 1 cut specimen. Class 7: Flowering Branches: 1 cut specimen not to exceed 30" in length. Must include apical tip and several nodes, and exhibit sufficient blooms. September 2023 Schedule September 18, 2023 Monthly Theme: Water SECTION A : FLOWERING ANNUALS 1 cut stem with foliage unless otherwise specified . Class 1: Dahlia : 1 stem, disbudded, with a minimum of 1 set of leaves. Class 2: Salvia Class 3: Tagetes (Marigold): 1 stem with single bloom, or a spray with a minimum of 2 open blooms Class 4* : Zinnia elegans 'Pumila Bordeaux': 1 stem with 2 sets of leaves if large/medium; 1 set if small. * Eligible for the Estelle Leibrecht Horticulture Award . Class 5: Any other worthy named specimen: 3 stems if small; 1 stem if large. SECTION B : ANNUALS GROWN FOR FOLIAGE 1 cut stem unless otherwise specified . Class 6: Caladium Class 7: Plectranthus scutellarioides (Coleus) Class 8: Strobilanthes (Persian Shield) Class 9: Any other worthy named specimen: 3 stems if small; 1 stem if large. SECTION C: FLOWERING PERENNIALS 1 cut stem with attached foliage unless otherwise specified . Class 10: Aster Class 11*: Rosa: 1 cut stem, shown as a single disbudded flower, or as a spray with at least 2 open blooms and several buds in various stages of development, with a minimum of 2 sets of five-leaved leaflets. * Eligible for the Barbara Meyer Rose Award . Class 12: Sedum Class 13: Any other worthy named specimen: 3 stems if small; 1 stem if large. SECTION D: PERENNIALS GROWN FOR FOLIAGE 1 cut stem unless otherwise specified . Class 14: Fern Class 15: Heuchera: 3 stems if small; 1 stem if large. Class 16: Hosta Class 17: Any other worthy named specimen SECTION E: HERBS 3 cut stems if small; 1 stem if large. Class 18: Ocimum (basil) Class 19: Rosemarinus (rosemary) Class 20: Salvia (sage) Class 21: Thymus (thyme) Class 22:* Collection of 5 herbs. * Eligible for the Amy Hatrak Herb Award . Limited to 10 participants. SECTION F: VEGETABLES Entries will be staged on a plate provided by committee. Class 23: Capsicum (pepper): 5 if small; 1 if large specimen. Class 24: Cucurbita (squash): 1 specimen Class 25: Solanum lycopersicum (tomato): 5 if small with stem attached; 1 if large with stem removed. Class 26: Any other worthy named specimen: Check with Horticulture Chairs, as number of specimens varies with size of vegetable (i.e. 12 beans; 1 cabbage). October 2023 Schedule October 16, 2023 Monthly Theme: Fire Class 1: Annuals: 1 cut specimen if large; 3 specimens if small. Class 2: Perennials: 1 cut specimen if large; 3 specimens if small. Class 3: Ornamental Grasses: 1 cut specimen exceeding 30" but no longer than 42" (freshly cut, not dried). Class 4: Herbs: 1 cut specimen if large; 3 specimens if small. Class 5: Vegetables or Fruit: 1 specimen if large (e.g., cabbage, cantaloupe, pumpkin); 3 to 5 specimens if medium (e.g., beets with stem and leaves, tomatoes, cucumbers); multiple specimens if small (e.g. cherry tomatoes, green beans). November 2023 Schedule November 13, 2023 Monthly Theme: Earth Class 1: Broadleaf Evergreen Branches: 1 cut specimen not to exceed 30". Must include apical tip and several nodes. Class 2: Needled Evergreen Branches: 1 cut specimen not to exceed 30". Must include apical tip and several nodes. Class 3: Cacti and Succulents: Container grown; pot size not to exceed 8" in diameter. (Saucer for container must be provided by exhibitor. Class 4: Container-Grown Foliage Plant: Pot size not to exceed 8" in diameter. (Saucer for container must be provided by exhibitor.) Class 5: Container-Grown Flowering Plant : Pot size not to exceed 8" in diameter. (Saucer for container must be provided by exhibitor.) March 2024 Schedule March 25, 2024 Monthly Theme: Wind Register with Karen Whitehaus by Thursday, March 21. ​ Class 1: Narcissus (Daffodils/Jonquils): 1 cut specimen. Class 2: Muscari (Grape Hyacinths): 3 cut specimens. Class 3: Any other Flowering Bulbs, Corms, or Tubers: 1 cut specimen if large; 3 specimens if small. Class 4: Hellebores: 1 cut specimen with blooms; may have attached leaves. Class 5: Flowering Branches: 1 cut specimen not to exceed 30". Must include apical tip and several nodes, and exhibit sufficient blooms.

Botanical Arts Schedule See monthly schedule, below. As dates pass, they move to the bottom of this page. See Botanical Arts Rules for 2023-2024 NGC Handbook for Flower Shows No September, December, or January competitions. 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. April 2024 Schedule Monthly Theme: Dawn April 15, 2024 Register with Florence Leyssène by Thursday, April 11 . Section A: Botanical Arts Artistic Crafts A Cuff Bracelet . Create the bracelet using fresh and/or dried plant material. Staged on a 5" off-white cube provided by the committee. Mechanics must not be visible. Non-plant material may be used for construction, but must not show. See BA Artistic Crafts Rules . (Photo: Francoise Weeks creation.) ​ Section B: Botanical Arts Photography A Color Photograph of a Landscape or Any Other Subject Suggesting Early Morning Lighting. Must be 8" x 15", matted in white, with a maximum size of 11" x 14" includ ing the mat provided by exhibitor See BA Photography Rules . October 2023 Schedule Monthly Theme: Fire October 16 , 2023 See results of competition Section A: Botanical Arts Horticulture An Arboreal Branch. Exhibiting fall interest with majority of leaves firmly attached. Specimen must have been in exhibitor's possession a minimum of 6 months. Must be over 30" long, not to exceed 42" including apical tip and several nodes. Staged in a clear container provided by exhibitor. Clear wedging permitted and provided by exhibitor. See BA Horticulture R ules . Section B: Botanical Arts Artistic Crafts A Fresh Pumpkin. No larger than 12" diameter provided by exhibitor. Pumpkin can be carved. Decorated with only fresh and/or dried plant material. Only dried plant material may be treated (i.e. paint/glitter). No other components permitted. Allotted space 15" W x 15" D. No underlay. See BA Artistic Crafts Rules . ​ Click here to see full results and pictures of winners. November 2023 Schedule Monthly Theme: Earth November 13, 2023 See results of competition ​ Section A: Botanical Arts Horticulture Dried Hy drangea, I stem. Exhibit must be correctly named by its binomial or currently accept ed scientific designation. Staged in a clear container provided by exhibitor. Clear wedging permitted and provided by exhibitor. See BA Horticulture Rules . ​ Section B: Botanical Arts Design A Collage. An abstract design created on a background panel no larger than 8" x 10" provided by exhibitor, with a dominance o f compone nts attached in a non-realistic arrangement. Components include plant material and other found objects. Staged in an upright position on an easel provided by the committee. See BA Design R ules . ​ Click here to see full results and pictures of winners. February 2024 Schedule Monthly Theme: Ice February 12, 2024 See results of competition Section A: Botanical Arts Photography A Black and White Photograph Incorporating a Frozen Element. Must be 8" x 10", matted in white with a maximum size of 11" x 14" including the mat provided by exhibitor. See BA Photography Rules . ​ Section B: Botanical Arts Artistic Crafts An Invitation Card to a Winter Party. Create a one-sided 5" x7" invitation using fresh and/or dried plant material. All types of accessories permitted. Must include the title of the party in writing. Exhibitor to provide unobtrusive support for self-standing display on the table. See BA Artistic Crafts Rules . March 2024 Schedule Monthly Theme: Wind March 25, 2024 Register with Florence Leyssène by Thursday, March 21. ​ Section A: Botanical Arts Artistic Crafts A Shoe . Provided by exhibitor and embellished using fresh and/or dried plant materials. All parts of the shoe must be covered with plant material but the shoe must remain wearable. Staged on a plain, solid-colored shoe box provided by exhibitor. Allotted space 15" W x 15" D. See BA Artistic Crafts Rules . (Photo: F rancoise Weeks creation.) ​ Section B: Botanical Arts Design A Topiary. A contrived tree form, having a visible trunk/s created by the exhibitor and embellished with fresh and/or dried plant material. Non-plant materia l may be used to embellish the topiary. Allotted space 15" W x 15" D. Underlay permitted. See BA Design Rules .

Contact Us If you are interested in joining us, please go to our provisional member page . If you would just like to talk to someone about what we do, please fill out this form and we will get back to you as quickly as possible. Name Address Email Phone Subject Message Thanks for contacting us! We'll get back to you as soon as possible. Submit

Visit more of our projects: Art in Bloom Avis Campbell Gardens Boutique Civic Beautification Crane House Garden Therapy Open Gardens Social Events Triangle Gardens Trips and Outings Youth Projects Crane House For many years, members have decorated The Crane House and Historic YWCA for the holidays, using only the ornaments, trimmings and garlands the original 18th-Century owners Israel and Fanny Crane would have would have recognized. Watch the video, below, for a virtual holiday tour. In 2020 the Crane House landed in 4th place in USA Today’s 10 Best Historic Home Tours , thanks to the efforts of the Garden Club of Montclair. See also the article in the Montclair Local . The photos of 2021's decorating extravaganza show how we are ready to win again. Thank you to everyone involved in keeping this beloved tradition alive. What an amazing way to end each year.

Garden Club of Montclair Awards See also national and state awards . Please note : The winners of these awards need to be viewed on a desktop, laptop, IPad or other tablet. The Elsie Bristol Novice Award The President's Trophy for Flower Design, Intermediate The Elsie Bristol Flower Award, Advanced II The Garden Club Award for Flower Design, Advanced The Kay Maclane Van Deusen Rose Award The President's Award for Horticulture The Betty B. Merriam Silver Bowl The Barbara Slockbower Schaeberle Award The Till Beatty Allis Award The Bauer Horticulture Award The Estelle Leibrecht Horticulture Award The Louise D. Mann Award The Amy Hatrak Herb Award The Barbara Meyer Award Botanical Arts Division Award Special Tributes National Council of Accredited Flower Show Judges Master Gardeners The Elsie Bristol Novice Award A silver bowl perpetual trophy awarded to the member of Novice Level who, during the year, achieved the highest score, including the winning of one blue ribbon. Year Recipient 2020 Ginny Demoreuille 2019 Cheryl Slutsky 2018 Michele Reiter 2017 Susan Benner 2016 Fran Ackerly 2015 Tessie Thomas 2014 Lorrie Weeks 2013 Lillian Rockwood 2012 Elizabeth Saylor 2011 Susan Dumont 2009 Darlene Sneden 2008 Ginger Finder 2007 Fran Weedfald 2006 Nina Rue 2005 Michele Quinn 2004 Gratia Pellicotti, Celia Radek 2003 Muriel D. Smith 2002 Terri Petti 2001 Debbie Moran 2000 May Ann Renn 1999 Kathy Quinn 1998 Patrice Sommerhalter 1997 Kathy Long 1996 Barbara W. Meyer 1995 Nadiya Clark 1994 Heidi Muschick 1993 Mary Heyman 1992 Lynda Henderson 1991 Rita Berkowitz 1990 Dolores Kelly 1989 Mrs. Peter Green 1988 Ms. John Cannell 1987 Mrs. Martin McKerrow Back to list of awards The President's Trophy for Flower Design, Intermediate A silver bowl perpetual trophy awarded to the member of Intermediate Level who, during the year, achieved the highest score, including the winning of one blue ribbon. Year Recipient 2023 Sarah Olson 2019 Susan Straten 2018 Barbara Baletti 2017 Michele Tomasik 2016 Lillian Rockwood 2015 Lorrie Weeks 2014 Liz Saylor 2013 Susan Dumont 2012 Kathleen McCoy 2011 Fran Liscio 2010 Terri Breen 2009 Michele Quinn 2008 Nina Rue 2007 Trish Hill 2006 Cynthia Corhan-Aitken 2005 Celia Radek 2004 Muriel Smith, Lori Beitler 2003 Cathie Trider, Pat Russell 2002 Lucy Schneider 2001 Florence Leyssène 2000 Kathy Quinn 1999 Patti Riccardelli 1998 Dorothy Sachs 1997 Joan Crowther 1996 Nadiya Clark 1995 Heidi Muschick 1994 Ann Ferguson 1993 Lynda Henderson 1992 Brigitte Padberg 1991 Pat Green 1990 Chris Cowles 1989 Mrs. B. Leonardson, Mrs. M. McKerrow 1988 Mrs. Douglas F. Price 1987 Mrs. Carl Menk Back to list of awards Bristol-novice/Pres Flower Design-intermdiate The Elsie Bristol Flower Award, Advanced II This award, a silver plate perpetual trophy, was retired in June 2018 when the Advanced I and Advanced II levels were combined to become the Advanced Level. The members listed below achieved the highest score, including the winning of one blue ribbon. Year Recipient 2018 Michele Tomasik 2017 Lillian Rockwood 2016 Liz Saylor 2015 Liz Saylor 2014 Sarah Stransky 2013 Fran Liscio 2012 Michele Quinn 2011 Darlene Sneden 2010 Betty Ann Cannell, Pat Green 2008 Cynthia Corhan-Aitken 2007 Celia Radek 2006 Lori Beitler, Celia Radek 2005 Lori Beitler 2004 Firth Fabend 2003 Debbie Moran 2002 Florence Leyssène 2001 Dolores Kelly 2000 Chris Cowles 1999 Joan Crowther 1998 Lynda Henderson 1997 Chris Cowles 1996 Chris Cowles 1995 Chris Cowles 1994 Chris Cowles 1993 Susie Price 1992 Susie Price 1991 Connie Young 1990 Betty Menk 1989 Mrs. Roger Young 1988 Mrs. H. Hawkey, Mrs. C. Molitor 1987 Mrs. Theodore P. Swick The Garden Club Award for Flower Design, Advanced A silver plate awarded to the member of Advanced Level who received the highest number of points in a year, including two blue ribbons. Note: Prior to 2019, this award was made at the Advanced I Level. Year Recipient 2023 Barbara Baletti 2020 Fran Ackerly 2019 Michele Tomasik 2018 Fran Ackerly 2017 Sarah Stransky 2014 Fran Liscio 2011 Cynthia Corham-Aitken 2010 Celia Radek 2009 Cynthia Corham-Aitken 2008 Dolores Kelly, Lucy Schneider 2007 Florence Leyssène 2006 Firth Fabend 2005 Debbie Moran 2004 Debbie Moran 2003 Dolores Kelly 2002 Joan Crowther 1995 Sue Swick 1994 Sue Swick 1993 Mary McGeown 1990 Mary McGeown 1989 Mary McGeown 1988 Kathy Parse Back to list of awards Back to list of awards Bristol-advanced/GC Flower Design-advanced The Kay Maclane Van Deusen Rose Award A silver vase perpetual trophy, given in her memory by her family, awarded to the Garden Club member who, during the October Competition, best perpetuates the love and use of roses in artistic design. The winner will be chosen by a panel of five members composed of the President, the Awards Chair, and three others appointed by the President. The presentation of this award takes place at the annual meeting. Year Recipient 2023 Fran Ackerly 2020 Sarah J. Olson 2019 Denise Silverman 2018 Fran Ackerly 2017 Cynthia Corhan-Aiken 2016 Celia Radek 2012 Elizabeth Saylor 2014 Cynthia Corhan-Aitken 2013 Susan Dumont 2012 Elizabeth Saylor 2011 Cynthia Corhan-Aitken 2010 Celia Radek 2009 Darlene Sneden 2008 Ginger Finder 2007 Firth Fabend 2006 Nina Rue 2005 Debbie Moran 2004 Dolores Kelly 2003 Mary Ann Renn 2002 Lucy Schneider 2001 Lynda Henderson 2000 Mary Ann Renn 1999 Kathy Quinn 1998 Kathy Long 1997 Barbara Meyer 1996 Patti Riccardelli 1995 Susie Price 1994 Chris Cowles 1993 Mary McGeown 1992 Mary McGeown 1991 Sue Swick 1990 Barbara Etherington Back to list of awards The President's Award for Horticulture A silver plate perpetual trophy awarded to the member who, during the year, achieved the highest score, including the winning of one blue ribbon in the Club's Horticultural Competitions. Year Recipient 1923 Sarah Olson 2020 Denise Silverman 2019 Michele Trevenen 2018 Karen Whitehaus 2017 Susan Straten 2016 Fran Wong 2015 Susan Straten 2014 Fran Liscio 2013 Michele Trevenen 2012 Cynthia Corhan-Aiken 2011 Kristin Krongard 2010 Debbie Moran 2009 Kristin Krongard 2008 Cynthia Corhan-Aiken 2007 Debbie Moran 2006 Debbie Moran 2005 Gratia Pelliciotti 2004 Gratia Pelliciotti 2002 Terry Petti 2001 Lori Beitler 2000 Lynda Henderson 1999 Ellen Meriney 1998 Susie Price 1997 Barbara Meyer 1996 Barbara Meyer 1995 Heidi Muschick 1994 Barbara Meyer 1993 Peg Kaveny 1992 Peg Kaveny 1991 Susie Price 1990 Barbara Meyer 1989 Mrs. Douglas F. Price 1988 Mrs. Douglas F. Price 1987 Mrs. Douglas F. Price Back to list of awards Van Deusen/President-Horticulture The Betty B. Merriam Silver Bowl This perpetual trophy silver bowl may be awarded at a Standard Flower Show or Small Standard Flower Show for any decorative use of plant material having distinctive beauty. Only members of the Garden Club of Montclair are eligible for this trophy, which shall remain in the Garden Club Room. A special panel of judges shall be invited to make the award. A small version of the award shall be presented to the winner. Names of the winners are inscribed on a wall plaque in the Garden Club Room. Year Recipient 2023 Debbie Moran 2018 Janice Benton, Jamie Chase, Deborah Hirsch, Debbie Moran 2009 Jamie Chase, Margaret Kenrick, Florence Leyssène 2009 Debbie Moran 2006 Brenda Bingham 2004 Joan Crowther 1995 Barbara Meyer 1994 Brenda Bingham 1993 Brenda Bingham 1992 Mary McGeown 1991 Rita Berkowitz 1990 Gladys Hunziker Back to list of awards The Barbara Slockbower Schaeberle Award A silver bowl perpetual trophy, given in her memory by her family, to be awarded at a Standard Flower Show or Small Standard Flower Show to the member of the Garden Club of Montclair who wins the Designer’s Choice Award. Year Recipient 2023 Tova Narrett 2018 Barbara Baletti 2006 Debbie Moran 2004 Joan Crowther 2000 Brenda Bingham 1998 Joan Crowther 1996 Brenda Bingham 1993 Brenda Bingham 1990 Mary McGeown 1986 Mary McGeown Back to list of awards The Till Beatty Allis Award A silver bowl perpetual trophy, given in her honor by her family, may be awarded by the Awards Committee to a member who has made an outstanding contribution in the area of Flower Design and Flower Design education. Year Recipient 2023 Fran Ackerly 2022 Floss O'Sullivan 2021 Florence Leyssène 2019 Brenda Bingham 2018 Florence Leyssène 2017 Sarah Stransky 2015 Cynthia Corham-Aiken 2009 Debbie Moran 2008 Brenda Bingham 2007 Florence Leyssène 2006 Mary McGeown 2005 Margaret Kenrick 2004 Joan Crowther 2003 Ruth Lincoln Back to list of awards Merriam Schaeberle/Allis The Bauer Horticulture Award A silver bowl perpetual trophy given by the late Mrs. John Bauer may be awarded each year at the Annual Meeting for major achievement in Horticulture. The winner is chosen by decision of the Awards Committee. Individual members may make application for this award. Year Recipient 2023 Maureen Sprong 2021 Debbie Moran 2020 Maureen Sprong 2018 Michele Trevenen 2017 Jacklyn Kling 2016 Karen Whitehaus 2014 Jaimie Chase 2010 Kristin Krongard 2009 Celia Radek 2008 Barbara Meyer 2007 Lucy Schneider 2006 Laurel Ness 2005 Lori Beitler 2004 Gratia Pelliciotti 2002 Heidi Muschick 2001 Renee Cohen 2000 Dale Birkett 1999 Margo Walter 1998 Helen Geyer 1997 Kathy Parsons 1996 Brenda Bingham 1995 Helen Breen 1994 Jamie Chase 1993 Peg Dodd 1992 Peg Kaveny 1991 Barbara Meyer 1990 Mrs. Douglas F. Price 1989 Mrs. A. Graham Ness 1988 Mrs. John T. Wooster 1987 Mrs. John H. Smith The Estelle Leibrecht Horticulture Award A silver bowl perpetual trophy awarded by the Horticulture Committee to the member who receives the blue ribbon for the Club project, to be judged at a fall or spring horticultural show, a Standard Flower Show, or a Small Standard Flower Show. Year Recipient 2023 Debbie Moran 2022 Denise Silverman 2017 Fran Wong 2015 Luce Battsek 2014 Fran Liscio 2008 Nancy Sweetser 2005 Gratia Pelliciotti 2004 Lori Beitler 2003 Maeve Clemens 2002 Ann Liedtka 2001 Debbie Moran 2000 Bonni Babson 1998 Rita Hochwalt 1998 Nancy Berman 1997 Barbara Meyer 1996 Sarah Stransky 1995 Heidi Muschick 1994 Nancy Berman 1993 Pat Green 1992 Barbara Meyer 1991 Jamie Chase 1990 Barbara Meyer 1989 Mrs. David K. Meriney 1987 Mrs. William F. Treene 1986 Mrs. Frank P. Marano 1985 Mrs. J. Lloyd Berrall 1982 Mrs. L. Anthony Fisher 1980 Mrs. Edward R. Eberle Back to list of awards Back to list of awards Bauer/Leibrecht The Louise D. Mann Award A silver tray perpetual trophy, given in her memory by her family, to be awarded to a member of The Garden Club of Montclair when merited, in recognition of her vision and significant accomplishments in a field that advances Garden Club objectives. The winner is chosen by the Awards Committee. Year Recipient 2023 Deborah Hirsch 2022 Sarah J. Olson 2021 Floss O'Sullivan 2020 Claire Stepleton 2019 Gretchen Prater 2018 Celia Radek, Sarah Stransky 2017 Florence Leyssène 2016 Brenda Bingham 2015 Kate Khachaturian 2014 Debbie Moran 2012 Sarah Stransky 2011 Florence Leyssene 2010 Brenda Bingham 2009 Margaret Kenrick 2008 Joan Crowther 2007 Helen Breen 2006 Bonni Babson 2005 Peg Dodd 2004 Barbara Etherington 2003 Barbara Meyer 2002 Amy Hatrak 2001 Sue Swick 2000 Brenda Bingham 1999 Chris Cowles 1998 Susie Price 1996 Aubin Ames 1995 Connie Young 1994 Peg Pendelton 1992 Julie Wilson 1991 Sarita Oliphant 1990 Till Allis 1988 Mrs. Walter J. Hunziker Jr. 1986 Mr. & Mrs. Robert Dallery 1985 Mrs. Ann Rogerson 1983 Mrs. John T. Wooster 1980 Mrs. J. Lloyd Berrall The Amy Hatrak Herb Award A silver tray perpetual trophy, given in her honor by her family, in recognition of her accomplishments in the field of herbs. To be given to the Garden Club member who, during the September or October Competition, best exemplifies and demonstrates the growing of herbs, for use and for delight, including aromatic, culinary, medicinal herbs, and scented geraniums. To be judged by a panel composed of the President, the Awards Chair, and three others appointed by the President. The Award is announced upon the judges’ decision and the trophy presented at the Annual Meeting in May. Year Recipient 2023 Denise Silverman 2020 Denise Silverman 2019 Nancy Loo 2018 Jamie Chase 2017 Susan Straten 2016 Susan Straten 2015 Elaine Conti 2014 Karen Whitehaus 2013 Elaine Conti 2012 Elaine Conti Back to list of awards The Barbara Meyer Award A perpetual trophy recognizing excellence in rose culture may be awarded to the member of the Garden Club of Montclair whose single rose specimen, grown by the exhibitor, received the highest-scoring blue ribbon in a Club Horticulture Competition, Horticulture Specialty, Standard Flower or Small Standard Flower Show. Year Recipient 2023 Denise Silverman 2019 Susan Straten 2018 Barbara Meyer Back to list of awards The Botanical Arts Award A silver bowl perpetual trophy is awarded to the Garden Club member who, during the year, achieved the highest total score for participation in Botanical Arts competitions of any type, including the winning of one blue ribbon. The four types include Botanical Arts Horticulture, Botanical Arts Design, Botanical Arts Artistic Crafts, and Photography. Year Recipient 2023 Floss O'Sullivan Back to list of awards Back to list of awards Mann/Hatrak Meyer Botanical Special Tributes Year Recipient 2023 Susan Benner, Marilyn & Peter Zaret 2022 Sue Young 2021 Cynthia Corhan-Aiken, Sandy Sorkin, Karen Whitehaus, Fran Wong 2020 Sarah J. Olson, Floss O'Sullivan 2019 Larry Whitehaus, Marilyn Zaret 2018 The Montclair Foundation's Van Vleck House & Gardens 2016 Rene Cohen 2015 Firth Fabend, Gretchen Prater, Lorrie Weeks 2014 Maryetta Bartlett, Nancy Bartlett 2013 Sanford Sorkin, Darlene Sneden 2012 Celia Radek, Karen Whitehaus 2011 Betty Lambourn, Karen Whitehaus, Lillian Rockwood, Helen Steinbrueck, Odile L'hertier 2010 Jamie Chase, Fran Liscio 2008 Connie Young 2007 Brenda Bingham, Kate Khachaturian, Janel Oscar, Pat Russell, Sarah Stransky 2006 Firth Fabend, Sue Swick, David Nial 2002 Symon Cowles 2001 Eileen Sheehan 2000 Bonni Babson 1999 Barbara Malcom 1998 Rita Hochwalt 1995 Rita Berkowitz, Elaine Conti, Betty Lamborn 1994 Sue Swick 1991 Susan Marano 1990 Betty Bell, Ruth Lincoln 1989 Kathy Parsons 1988 Mrs. David Meriney 1987 Mrs. William Breen Back to list of awards National Council of Accredited Flower Show Judges Master Judges: Brenda Bingham, Florence Leyssène, Mary McGeown, Debbie Moran, Heidi Muschick Back to list of awards Master Gardeners Members who have completed the Essex County Master Gardener Course and volunteer requirements for Master Gardener designation. Brenda Bingham, Jamie Chase, Jacoba Coes, Karen Fricke, Donna Wright, Back to list of awards ​ Special Tributes Judges Master Gardeners

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See also GCM awards . Award winner names from 1926-1986 are filed in the archives. Awards –Other 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 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 2023 The 2023 President’s Special Recognition Award This award honors our webmaster, Sue Young, for the redesign and development of our outstanding Website that, throughout the pandemic, connected our membership with our projects, events, and each other, as well as with the com munities we serve. From timely news posts to online Club archives, the connection endures as Sue continues to develop features to facilitate our work.

Our Purpose 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. 2023 -2024 Fees and Annual Dues Active Member : $100 Associate Member: $125 Non-Resident Member: $ 50 Provisional: $100 Emeritus: $0 Guest Fee: Donations welcome