Dear Editor:
Pershing Field Garden Friends (PFGF) recently celebrated our 10th Anniversary, by partnering with Jersey City’s campaign in promoting green and sustainable living throughout the year. On May 5th, PFGF hosted “Volunteer Appreciation Day” in Pershing Field as part of the citywide celebration Project 365: Jersey City Green Week. Some of the highlights of the day included games, activities & prizes by Jersey City Division of Cultural Affairs, basketball and tennis clinics for our youth sponsored by Jersey City Division of Recreation, Artist Cheese’s creative and whimsical Family Flower Head photo stand, the Hyatt’s Observation Hive presented by the beekeeper at Hilltop Honey Joseph Lelinho and Hyatt executive chef Cathy Kearney and our tasty Cupcake Creations sponsored by Goehrigs Bakery. Over the last 10 years, we have been fortunate to have the support and participation of our local merchants: AJ Barringtons Florist, Central Ave Liquors, LuLu’s Hair Zone, McDonald’s, Pizza Masters, Podewitz Deli, Radio Shack, Rite Aid, Shop-Rite and Stop & Shop.
We enjoyed a great day of fun while recognizing our very dedicated group of community volunteers that are committed to the well being of our park and neighborhood. There are two volunteers that I would especially like to recognize that have single handedly taken on the day to day care of the gardens. Patrick Mangini and Patricia O’Hanlon work tirelessly to make sure the gardens are meticulously maintained. They are “Pat and Pat”. Watering, weeding & so much more, they are the humble stewards of our park. They were presented with citations for their steadfast dedication and hard work from Mayor Healy and Assemblyman Sean Connors. We have been fortunate to have PFGF members Diane Brown and Gita Bhayani who consistently recruit local students to assist in our annual plantings. These wonderful students have been a valuable asset to our mission and were recognized with citations by Mayor Healy for their efforts.
Our success to date could never have been possible without the unwavering support of Rodney Hadley, the Director of Jersey City’s Division of Public Works. Maryanne Kelleher, the Director of Jersey City’s Division of Cultural Affairs, and her staff were outstanding to work with as always! Thanks to Jennifer Morrill, Press Secretary for the City of Jersey City and her staff for the promotion of our event and the entire Project 365: Jersey City Green Week schedule.
To all that have been partners in our effort to beautify our Park and City, thank you. We look forward to many more years of collaborating for the betterment of Jersey City!
Laura Skolar, President
Pershing Field Garden Friends