To the Editor:

The Town & Country Garden Club thanks our donors for their support with the decoration of the three Newtown traffic islands, which we design, plant and maintain through the three growing seasons.

First, Chuck and Darryl Newman, owners of Planters’ Choice Nursery (140 Huntingtown Road, Newtown) have been steadfast supporters in many ways for many years, (at least 50, as long as our long-time, most knowledgeable member, Barbara O’Connor, has been employed there). Through those years, they have loaned plants for events and parades, permitted the use of their facilities for us to work, provided healthy plants for our plant sales, and now, donate Kales and Cabbages for the traffic islands. In short, they simply — never say “No”.

We’d like to thank Stephanie and Steve from Castle Hill Farms, 1 Sugar Lane, Newtown, who have supplied the corn stalks for Island #3, and pumpkins, which, as a result of inclement weather this year, were in precious short supply. Stephanie’s pleasant personality made it easy to ask and accommodated our requests, while effortlessly keeping control of the busy chaos surrounding her. This family-owned, community-minded business utilizes their beautiful land for countless things such as musical functions for toddlers, seasonal hay rides, a corn maze, pick-your-own pumpkin patch, a farm stand — or you can enjoy a stroll through the thousands of stunning sunflowers.

Check out their website at castlehillfarm.net.

We would be amiss if we did not mention a few other local civic-minded businesses who have contributed during this past unusual year; A special thank you to Caraluzzi’s Newtown Market, Big Y World Class Market, CVS and Stop & Shop Supermarket, for their generosity. It is very much appreciated, not only by us, at Town & Country, but by the Borough, who supports the islands financially and by a myriad of Newtown residents who take the time to stop and express their thanks for our small part in keeping this special town beautiful.

And, last but certainly not least, a special thanks to our sponsors, Sal e Pepe and Shakespeare’s Garden, simply the best Italian restaurant and the best Garden Center that can be found for miles and miles and miles.

Chris Lincoln, Co-President

Town & Country Garden Club