Dear Friends of Willowwood,
I am perched in my home office enjoying the beauty of our home garden just outside my window. My blue lace hydrangeas are in their glory. Doesn’t it seem like the lush landscape of June is even more spectacular than ever this summer? And visitors continue to find Willowwood to be as resplendent and welcoming a refuge as ever. I do hope that your time permits a relaxing visit one day soon.
As I am becoming acquainted with my new role as President of the Foundation, I wish to thank you all for your support. I extend my special thanks to Brace Krag for accepting the role of vice president and to Leslie Allain for her helpful guidance.
There are a few pieces of news to share. First, I regret to inform you of the recent resignation of our friend and treasurer Stathis Andris who served the Board for the past fifteen years. We owe him great thanks for his tenure on the Board and deep appreciation for his diligent guidance and support. I am delighted to let you know that Trustee Joe Arvay has agreed to serve as Treasurer.
At our recent meeting we discussed efforts to raise funds for a memorial bench in honor of Becky Terry. Thus far fundraising by her friends has raised 50% of the assciated cost. In addition, It has been decided that several Father Fiala Lilacs will be purchased in memorial to other former trustees. This is an ongoing project and planting is anticipated for Spring 2020.
In addition, there are several updates on the arboretum staffing front. We have been notified of the resignation of Mark Inzano, Manager of Horticulture, who served Willowwod for the past five years. MCPC will begin a search for his replacement.
Last month, Brace, Leslie, and I were able to celebrate the wonderful thirty-five plus year career of gardener extraordinaire Kriste Shaw- she was a fixture at Willowwood. Her dedicated care of the Conservatory and the Cottage Gardens made them special. Thyra Kelly, has been promoted from Assistant Gardener to the position of Gardener by MCPC. A few positions remain open including assistant gardener, gardener, and seasonal groundskeeper. If perhaps you have a candidate in mind please direct them to the Park website: morrisparks.net
That’s all for now. I hope that this finds you and your loved ones doing well and ready to welcome and enjoy a happy Fourth of July 2021 and a wonderful summer.
With my best always,
Meryl