FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: April 24, 2013
MEDIA CONTACTS: Collin Nash, Ryan Mulholland & Sam Marksheid | (516) 869-7794
Town Re-Opens Clark Garden with Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony
North Hempstead, NY – Supervisor Jon Kaiman and the North Hempstead Town Board announced today that Clark Botanic Garden in Albertson has re-opened in time for spring, following the Devastation of Superstorm Sandy.
Founded in 1969, Clark Botanic Garden is a 12-acre living museum and educational facility that is dedicated to understanding and appreciating the world's plant life through horticulture, education and research. The grounds had been closed to the public since the week prior to Superstorm Sandy, and it was severely damaged by the hurricane. Sandy took down more than 50 of Clark’s most mature trees, crushed the apiary that produces fresh honey and broke walkways, railings and benches.
“Clark Garden is a beautiful living museum and educational facility that our residents can enjoy all year round, whether they want to go for a stroll through the garden, or read a book on a bench near the pond,” said Supervisor Jon Kaiman. “I am thrilled to be able to re-open this facility in its entire splendor.”
This grand re-opening is just in time for the Town’s 8th Annual EcoFest, which will take place Saturday, April 27th, and Sunday, April 28th from 11:00am to 5:00pm, with gates opening to the public both days at 10:00am. EcoFest is the centerpiece of North Hempstead’s month-long effort to raise awareness among residents about environmental preservation.
“This festival is a real treat for the whole family,” said Town Councilman Thomas Dwyer. “Between the music and wildlife displays for the children and the beautiful scenery of a botanical garden for parents to enjoy, it is truly an event that caters to all age groups.”
The re-opening of Clark Botanic Garden would not have been possible without the support of Philanthropist Dr. Harvey Manes, who donated $10,000 to Clark’s restoration effort, as well as various environmentalists including Patti Wood of Grassroots Environmental Education, and Mindy Germain from Residents for a More Beautiful Port Washington.
$30,000 was raised all together for restoration efforts which includes $20,000 from the Fanny Dwight Clark Memorial Garden, Inc., which is the not-for-profit organization founded to support, enhance, and preserve Clark Botanic Garden as a serene tranquil oasis for all to enjoy.
Clark Botanic Garden is located at 193 I.U. Willets Road in Albertson. For more information, please call 311.
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Supervisor Kaiman cuts the ribbon to re-open Clark Garden, flanked by local officials and environmentalists.