President's Message 2019-2020
​
No occupation is so delightful to me as the culture of the earth,
and no culture comparable to that of the garden. 
-Thomas Jefferson​

My focus during the coming year will be on Hardscapes in the Garden. Hardscaping is a term that refers to the hard elements, or nonliving features of the landscape. This can include anything from decks and walkways to edging and ornamental features. They are an essential part of any great garden.

This focus on Hardscapes in the Garden will give us a whole new perceptive on what a great garden should have as part of its design. I will once again work with Horticulture and Programs committees in an effort to reinforce my cornerstone with programs and field trips that will help us better understand the role that hardscapes have, along with our softscapes.

​This President’s mission is to maintain our good work through growth. Our club is a nonprofit organization that is open to everyone and becomes richer with diversity. As part of my mission I will try to maintain the proper balance within the club of the work that needs to be done, insuring that all members display commitment to our mission statement.

At the beginning of my second term as your president, I want you to know how enjoyable it has been working with each and every one of you and I look forward to the year ahead.

​Augie Pampel, President

Our Mission:

• To further the knowledge of gardening and the artistic use of plant materials
• To stimulate interest in civic beautification
• To aid in the conservation of natural resources 
• To promote educational and charitable projects which emphasize conservation, ecology and civic improvement

​Join us:
We welcome new members, both women and men, living in the villages of Essex, Centerbrook and Ivoryton, who are interested in gardening and working in the community. We offer informative programs, horticultural workshops, trips to interesting gardens, and the opportunity to spend time with people who have the same passion for projects undertaken by the club. If you are interested in learning more about club membership, please write to: Membership Chair, PO Box 936, Essex, CT. 06426.

The Essex Garden Club is a member of The Federated Garden Clubs of CT, Inc. totalling 122 clubs statewide, the New England Garden Clubs, Inc., and the National Garden Clubs, Inc.