PROGRAMS
September 3, 2025
Where Water Flows: Simple Solutions for a Healthier Bay
Conservation and Environment
Location and Time: Fellowship Hall, 1651 Ardsley Place, Crofton. Social at 9:00 AM followed by business meeting at 9:30 AM.
Program: Denise Frey, Master Watershed Steward and past member of the Crofton Village Garden Club, will share her work with the Watershed Stewards Academy and highlight the importance of managing stormwater to protect local waterways. Her presentation will explore the current impacts of stormwater pollution and how communities can work together to make a bold difference. With the quickening pace of climate change and growing stress on our water systems, education is a vital part of stormwater management. Denise will emphasize the importance of understanding what can be done—even in our own lawns and gardens—to reduce runoff and safeguard the health of our streams, rivers, and the Chesapeake Bay.
Horticulture Topic: The Bluebird Trail Takes Flight
Design Exhibit: Favorite Vacation Spot – Traditional or Creative Design, with designer having freedom of choice, staged on a black draped table in a space measuring 18" wide by 30" deep.
Hostesses: Littany Hollerbach (Lead), Yael Beckman, Trish Lilek Demers, Barbara Emden, and Verna Pond
Board Meeting: Wednesday, September 24, 2025, Crofton Community Library, 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM
Sustainable Gardening: Plant native trees and shrubs while the soil is warm and rain is more plentiful — fall planting helps roots establish before winter. Goldenrod (Solidago spp.) and New England aster (Symphyotrichum novae-angliae) offer late-season nectar for bees and butterflies.
Program: Denise Frey, Master Watershed Steward and past member of the Crofton Village Garden Club, will share her work with the Watershed Stewards Academy and highlight the importance of managing stormwater to protect local waterways. Her presentation will explore the current impacts of stormwater pollution and how communities can work together to make a bold difference. With the quickening pace of climate change and growing stress on our water systems, education is a vital part of stormwater management. Denise will emphasize the importance of understanding what can be done—even in our own lawns and gardens—to reduce runoff and safeguard the health of our streams, rivers, and the Chesapeake Bay.
Horticulture Topic: The Bluebird Trail Takes Flight
Design Exhibit: Favorite Vacation Spot – Traditional or Creative Design, with designer having freedom of choice, staged on a black draped table in a space measuring 18" wide by 30" deep.
Hostesses: Littany Hollerbach (Lead), Yael Beckman, Trish Lilek Demers, Barbara Emden, and Verna Pond
Board Meeting: Wednesday, September 24, 2025, Crofton Community Library, 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM
Sustainable Gardening: Plant native trees and shrubs while the soil is warm and rain is more plentiful — fall planting helps roots establish before winter. Goldenrod (Solidago spp.) and New England aster (Symphyotrichum novae-angliae) offer late-season nectar for bees and butterflies.
October 1, 2025
Meet Mrs. Musterman: Milliner and Entrepreneur
Historical and Cultural Presentation
Location and Time: Fellowship Hall, 1651 Ardsley Place, Crofton. Social at 9:00 AM followed by business meeting at 9:30 AM.
Program: Highlighting the inspiring life of Mrs. Musterman—an Annapolis legend, single mother, and entrepreneur—this engaging program features a colorful slide presentation tracing the history of millinery from bonnets to fascinators. Presented by Annapolis-based writer and speaker Elizabeth Leah Read, the talk is sure to spark memories of grandmothers, small towns, and the days when wearing a hat was a proud tradition. Several hats will be on display, and attendees are encouraged to wear a vintage hat—whether rediscovered in their closets or found at a local consignment shop—to join in the fun.
Horticulture Topic: Persimmons: Nature's Sweet Surprise
Design Exhibit: Favorite Sports Team – Traditional or Creative Design, with designer having freedom of choice, staged on a black draped table in a space measuring 18" wide by 30" deep.
Hostesses: Jessica Kruse (Lead), Carol Buhr, Nancy Durose, and C.J. Salisbury
Board Meeting: Wednesday, October 29, 2025, Crofton Community Library, 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM
Sustainable Gardening: Leave the leaves! Mulch fallen leaves into garden beds or under shrubs to build healthy soil and provide winter habitat for pollinators and beneficial insects.
Program: Highlighting the inspiring life of Mrs. Musterman—an Annapolis legend, single mother, and entrepreneur—this engaging program features a colorful slide presentation tracing the history of millinery from bonnets to fascinators. Presented by Annapolis-based writer and speaker Elizabeth Leah Read, the talk is sure to spark memories of grandmothers, small towns, and the days when wearing a hat was a proud tradition. Several hats will be on display, and attendees are encouraged to wear a vintage hat—whether rediscovered in their closets or found at a local consignment shop—to join in the fun.
Horticulture Topic: Persimmons: Nature's Sweet Surprise
Design Exhibit: Favorite Sports Team – Traditional or Creative Design, with designer having freedom of choice, staged on a black draped table in a space measuring 18" wide by 30" deep.
Hostesses: Jessica Kruse (Lead), Carol Buhr, Nancy Durose, and C.J. Salisbury
Board Meeting: Wednesday, October 29, 2025, Crofton Community Library, 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM
Sustainable Gardening: Leave the leaves! Mulch fallen leaves into garden beds or under shrubs to build healthy soil and provide winter habitat for pollinators and beneficial insects.
November 5, 2025
Honoring Our Veterans
Community Outreach and Floral Design Worksop
Location and Time: Fellowship Hall, 1651 Ardsley Place, Crofton. Social at 9:00 AM followed by business meeting at 9:30 AM.
Program: Project Co-Chairs Barbara Emden and Cindy Hansen lead a hands-on workshop where members create patriotic-themed floral arrangements to honor local veterans. Using red and white flowers, accented with American flags, patriotic ribbons, and fresh greenery, members design thoughtful tributes celebrating veterans' service. Following the workshop arrangements will be delivered by club members to Meals on Wheels in Baltimore for distribution to veterans on their routes. Remaining arrangements will be delivered to veterans at Hospice of the Chesapeake in Pasadena and Autumn Lake Healthcare in Crofton.
Hostesses: Lauren Toomey (Lead), Rosanne Harner, Jane McClanahan, Carol Morris, and Peggy Smail
Board Meeting: Tuesday, November 25, 2025, Crofton Community Library, 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM
Sustainable Gardening: Build small brush piles with fallen branches and twigs to provide shelter for birds, pollinators, and small mammals during the cold months. At the same time, focus on building soil health by spreading compost over garden beds to enrich them for spring growth.
Program: Project Co-Chairs Barbara Emden and Cindy Hansen lead a hands-on workshop where members create patriotic-themed floral arrangements to honor local veterans. Using red and white flowers, accented with American flags, patriotic ribbons, and fresh greenery, members design thoughtful tributes celebrating veterans' service. Following the workshop arrangements will be delivered by club members to Meals on Wheels in Baltimore for distribution to veterans on their routes. Remaining arrangements will be delivered to veterans at Hospice of the Chesapeake in Pasadena and Autumn Lake Healthcare in Crofton.
Hostesses: Lauren Toomey (Lead), Rosanne Harner, Jane McClanahan, Carol Morris, and Peggy Smail
Board Meeting: Tuesday, November 25, 2025, Crofton Community Library, 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM
Sustainable Gardening: Build small brush piles with fallen branches and twigs to provide shelter for birds, pollinators, and small mammals during the cold months. At the same time, focus on building soil health by spreading compost over garden beds to enrich them for spring growth.
December 3, 2025
Celebrate the Season: Decorating and Holiday Luncheon
Civic Beautification Project
Location and Time: Walden Country Club, 1500 Riedel Road, Crofton. Social and business meeting at 11:00 AM followed by lunch at 12:15 PM.
Program: Led by Committee Chair Tracy Backus, Crofton Village Garden Club members come together to decorate the Village Green with fresh evergreen wreaths adorned with festive bows. Members also deliver wreaths to the Crofton Community Library, several community schools, and Town Hall, spreading holiday cheer throughout the community.
Following the civic project, members gather at Walden Country Club for a festive holiday luncheon. A 50/50 raffle is held during the luncheon, with all proceeds supporting the club’s ongoing projects and programs.
Special Note: Reservations will be taken at the November membership meeting. Guests are welcome.
Hostesses: Patty More (Lead), Angela DeLuca, Cindy Hare, Shirley Levendoski, Sally Moore, and Rena Pogue
Board Meeting: Tuesday, December 30, 2025, Crofton Community Library, 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM
Sustainable Gardening: Keep perennials, ornamental grasses, and seed heads standing to insulate plant crowns and offer food for overwintering birds. Enjoy the winter texture instead of tidying too much.
Program: Led by Committee Chair Tracy Backus, Crofton Village Garden Club members come together to decorate the Village Green with fresh evergreen wreaths adorned with festive bows. Members also deliver wreaths to the Crofton Community Library, several community schools, and Town Hall, spreading holiday cheer throughout the community.
Following the civic project, members gather at Walden Country Club for a festive holiday luncheon. A 50/50 raffle is held during the luncheon, with all proceeds supporting the club’s ongoing projects and programs.
Special Note: Reservations will be taken at the November membership meeting. Guests are welcome.
Hostesses: Patty More (Lead), Angela DeLuca, Cindy Hare, Shirley Levendoski, Sally Moore, and Rena Pogue
Board Meeting: Tuesday, December 30, 2025, Crofton Community Library, 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM
Sustainable Gardening: Keep perennials, ornamental grasses, and seed heads standing to insulate plant crowns and offer food for overwintering birds. Enjoy the winter texture instead of tidying too much.
January 7, 2026
The Plant Lady's Guide to Indoor Gardens
Horticulture
Location and Time: Fellowship Hall, 1651 Ardsley Place, Crofton. Social at 9:00 AM followed by business meeting at 9:30 AM.
Program: As winter settles in, it’s a perfect time to think about indoor plants and greenery. Catherine Jellison, known fondly as "the plant lady," has been a library associate at the Crofton Community Library for over 21 years and cares for more than 500 houseplants at home and over 150 at the library. She will share her expertise on terrariums, indoor gardening skills, and creative solutions to common houseplant challenges. Catherine also leads the library’s popular “Plant Club,” creating unique opportunities for people to connect with plants and each other.
Horticulture Topic: The Master Gardener Journey
Design Exhibit: Favorite Pastime – Traditional or Creative Design, with designer having freedom of choice, staged on a black draped table in a space measuring 18" wide by 30" deep.
Hostesses: Angela Wetzel (Lead), Tracy Backus, Sally Moore, and Paula Moratto
Board Meeting: Wednesday, January 28, 2026, Crofton Community Library, 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM
Sustainable Gardening: Plan your sustainable landscape now. Research native plants and consider features like rain gardens or permeable paths — they help manage runoff and create habitats that support local wildlife year-round.
Program: As winter settles in, it’s a perfect time to think about indoor plants and greenery. Catherine Jellison, known fondly as "the plant lady," has been a library associate at the Crofton Community Library for over 21 years and cares for more than 500 houseplants at home and over 150 at the library. She will share her expertise on terrariums, indoor gardening skills, and creative solutions to common houseplant challenges. Catherine also leads the library’s popular “Plant Club,” creating unique opportunities for people to connect with plants and each other.
Horticulture Topic: The Master Gardener Journey
Design Exhibit: Favorite Pastime – Traditional or Creative Design, with designer having freedom of choice, staged on a black draped table in a space measuring 18" wide by 30" deep.
Hostesses: Angela Wetzel (Lead), Tracy Backus, Sally Moore, and Paula Moratto
Board Meeting: Wednesday, January 28, 2026, Crofton Community Library, 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM
Sustainable Gardening: Plan your sustainable landscape now. Research native plants and consider features like rain gardens or permeable paths — they help manage runoff and create habitats that support local wildlife year-round.
February 4, 2026
Trails and Tales: Exploring Anne Arundel's Pathways
Conservation and Environment
Location and Time: Fellowship Hall, 1651 Ardsley Place, Crofton. Social at 9:00 AM followed by business meeting at 9:30 AM.
Program: Let’s take a moment to appreciate the beautiful walking trails and parks throughout Anne Arundel County. Imagine breathing in the fresh air and listening to the sounds of nature as you explore these scenic paths. Darilyn Marinelli, President of the Friends of Anne Arundel County Trails, will share stories about many of the county's walking and biking trails. She will highlight how the Friends group works alongside the Department of Recreation and Parks, the Department of Public Works, park staff, and rangers to promote, protect, and enhance the multimodal trail system—including supporting new trail projects. Learn more about their important work by visiting www.friendsofaatrails.org.
Horticulture Topic: Snowdrops: The Quiet Joy of Late Winter
Design Exhibit: Favorite Flower – Traditional or Creative Design, with designer having freedom of choice, staged on a black draped table in a space measuring 18" wide by 30" deep.
Hostesses: Laura Austin (Lead), Sue Callahan, Lois Nichols, and Carol Schoenfeld
Board Meeting: Wednesday, February 25, 2026, Crofton Community Library, 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM
Sustainable Gardening: Prune dormant trees and shrubs. Remove dead or damaged branches for plant health, but leave some dead wood when safe — it benefits cavity-nesting birds and insects.
Program: Let’s take a moment to appreciate the beautiful walking trails and parks throughout Anne Arundel County. Imagine breathing in the fresh air and listening to the sounds of nature as you explore these scenic paths. Darilyn Marinelli, President of the Friends of Anne Arundel County Trails, will share stories about many of the county's walking and biking trails. She will highlight how the Friends group works alongside the Department of Recreation and Parks, the Department of Public Works, park staff, and rangers to promote, protect, and enhance the multimodal trail system—including supporting new trail projects. Learn more about their important work by visiting www.friendsofaatrails.org.
Horticulture Topic: Snowdrops: The Quiet Joy of Late Winter
Design Exhibit: Favorite Flower – Traditional or Creative Design, with designer having freedom of choice, staged on a black draped table in a space measuring 18" wide by 30" deep.
Hostesses: Laura Austin (Lead), Sue Callahan, Lois Nichols, and Carol Schoenfeld
Board Meeting: Wednesday, February 25, 2026, Crofton Community Library, 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM
Sustainable Gardening: Prune dormant trees and shrubs. Remove dead or damaged branches for plant health, but leave some dead wood when safe — it benefits cavity-nesting birds and insects.
March 4, 2026
Maryland's 5 Million Trees Initiative for a Greener Future
Conservation and Environment
Location and Time: Fellowship Hall, 1651 Ardsley Place, Crofton. Social at 9:00 AM followed by business meeting at 9:30 AM.
Program: In response to the growing threat of climate change, the state of Maryland has pledged to plant 5 million native trees on public and private lands by 2031. This ambitious initiative, established through legislation passed by the Maryland General Assembly in 2021, is coordinated by the Maryland Department of the Environment. The plan includes expanding technical and financial assistance to both rural and urban communities, increasing the state nursery’s seedling stock, and enhancing outreach for riparian forest buffer plantings. A planting specialist from the Department of Natural Resources will provide insight into the program's progress, goals, and how communities can get involved.
Horticulture Topic: The Beauty and Bounty of Growing Rhubarb
Hostesses: Becky Hogan (Lead), Margo Antonelli, Carol McNemar, and Charlotte Sazama
Board Meeting: Wednesday, March 25, 2026, Crofton Community Library, 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM
Sustainable Gardening: Tidy garden beds gently. Clear only what is needed to make space for new growth while keeping leaf litter for pollinators emerging from winter rest and to shelter beneficial insects that help keep garden pests under control.
Program: In response to the growing threat of climate change, the state of Maryland has pledged to plant 5 million native trees on public and private lands by 2031. This ambitious initiative, established through legislation passed by the Maryland General Assembly in 2021, is coordinated by the Maryland Department of the Environment. The plan includes expanding technical and financial assistance to both rural and urban communities, increasing the state nursery’s seedling stock, and enhancing outreach for riparian forest buffer plantings. A planting specialist from the Department of Natural Resources will provide insight into the program's progress, goals, and how communities can get involved.
Horticulture Topic: The Beauty and Bounty of Growing Rhubarb
Hostesses: Becky Hogan (Lead), Margo Antonelli, Carol McNemar, and Charlotte Sazama
Board Meeting: Wednesday, March 25, 2026, Crofton Community Library, 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM
Sustainable Gardening: Tidy garden beds gently. Clear only what is needed to make space for new growth while keeping leaf litter for pollinators emerging from winter rest and to shelter beneficial insects that help keep garden pests under control.
April 1, 2026
Behind the Gates: A Tour of the U.S. Naval Academy
Architectural and Landscape Design
Location and Time: Fellowship Hall, 1651 Ardsley Place, Crofton. Social at 9:00 AM followed by business meeting at 9:30 AM.
Program: Following the business meeting, members are encouraged to carpool to Gate 1 of the U.S. Naval Academy and gather at the Armel-Leftwich Visitor Center, located just inside the gate. We will be treated to a private, two-hour walking tour of the scenic Academy grounds—affectionately known as "the Yard"—led by Rear Admiral Kenneth Barausky, Retired. As we walk the tree-shaded grounds, we will observe how contrasting architectural styles reflect the Academy's long and evolving legacy, while monuments and gardens honor the courage and sacrifice of its graduates.
Special Note: The cost of the tour is approximately $10 per person. A REAL ID (driver’s license with a star) or a valid U.S. passport is required for entry.
Horticulture Topic: Basil: The Garden's Crown Jewel
Design Exhibit: Favorite Book – Traditional or Creative Design, with designer having freedom of choice, staged on a black draped table in a space measuring 18" wide by 30" deep.
Hostesses: Nancy Percivall (Lead), Karen Frost, Heather Marken, and Diane Smith
Board Meeting: Wednesday, April 29, 2026, Crofton Community Library, 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM
Sustainable Gardening: Plant early-blooming native perennials, like wild columbine (Aquilegia canadensis) and wild geranium (Geranium maculatum), to provide food for early pollinators. Use organic mulch to help retain soil moisture and suppress weeds naturally.
Program: Following the business meeting, members are encouraged to carpool to Gate 1 of the U.S. Naval Academy and gather at the Armel-Leftwich Visitor Center, located just inside the gate. We will be treated to a private, two-hour walking tour of the scenic Academy grounds—affectionately known as "the Yard"—led by Rear Admiral Kenneth Barausky, Retired. As we walk the tree-shaded grounds, we will observe how contrasting architectural styles reflect the Academy's long and evolving legacy, while monuments and gardens honor the courage and sacrifice of its graduates.
Special Note: The cost of the tour is approximately $10 per person. A REAL ID (driver’s license with a star) or a valid U.S. passport is required for entry.
Horticulture Topic: Basil: The Garden's Crown Jewel
Design Exhibit: Favorite Book – Traditional or Creative Design, with designer having freedom of choice, staged on a black draped table in a space measuring 18" wide by 30" deep.
Hostesses: Nancy Percivall (Lead), Karen Frost, Heather Marken, and Diane Smith
Board Meeting: Wednesday, April 29, 2026, Crofton Community Library, 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM
Sustainable Gardening: Plant early-blooming native perennials, like wild columbine (Aquilegia canadensis) and wild geranium (Geranium maculatum), to provide food for early pollinators. Use organic mulch to help retain soil moisture and suppress weeds naturally.
May 6, 2026
Treasures of Secret Gardens
Landscape Design
Location and Time: Fellowship Hall, 1651 Ardsley Place, Crofton. Social at 9:00 AM followed by business meeting at 9:30 AM.
Program: As spring ushers in a burst of color and life, our gardens awaken with fresh blooms, buzzing insects, and honey bees that help sustain their vibrant beauty. While some gardens proudly display their splendor, others are tucked quietly behind walls and fences—hidden gems crafted by human hands. In this engaging and lighthearted presentation, retired scientist and hobbyist welder Chris Modla, known for creating inquisitive works of art, takes us on a journey through the history of secret gardens. With historical insight, curiosity, and a touch of humor as he often pokes fun at his own wife's hidden retreat—Chris invites us to appreciate the quiet magic these secluded spaces hold.
Horticulture Topic: Peony Perfection: Essential Care for Beautiful Blooms
Design Exhibit: Favorite Game – Traditional or Creative Design, with designer having freedom of choice, staged on a black draped table in a space measuring 18" wide by 30" deep.
Hostesses: Diane Gallow (Lead), Cindy Hansen, Paulette Heward, and Rosa Johnson
Board Meeting: Wednesday, May 27, 2026, Crofton Community Library, 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM
Sustainable Gardening: Choose drought-tolerant native flowers, like purple coneflower (Echinacea purpurea) and black-eyed Susan (Rudbeckia hirta), for long-lasting blooms that help bees and butterflies thrive with minimal watering.
Program: As spring ushers in a burst of color and life, our gardens awaken with fresh blooms, buzzing insects, and honey bees that help sustain their vibrant beauty. While some gardens proudly display their splendor, others are tucked quietly behind walls and fences—hidden gems crafted by human hands. In this engaging and lighthearted presentation, retired scientist and hobbyist welder Chris Modla, known for creating inquisitive works of art, takes us on a journey through the history of secret gardens. With historical insight, curiosity, and a touch of humor as he often pokes fun at his own wife's hidden retreat—Chris invites us to appreciate the quiet magic these secluded spaces hold.
Horticulture Topic: Peony Perfection: Essential Care for Beautiful Blooms
Design Exhibit: Favorite Game – Traditional or Creative Design, with designer having freedom of choice, staged on a black draped table in a space measuring 18" wide by 30" deep.
Hostesses: Diane Gallow (Lead), Cindy Hansen, Paulette Heward, and Rosa Johnson
Board Meeting: Wednesday, May 27, 2026, Crofton Community Library, 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM
Sustainable Gardening: Choose drought-tolerant native flowers, like purple coneflower (Echinacea purpurea) and black-eyed Susan (Rudbeckia hirta), for long-lasting blooms that help bees and butterflies thrive with minimal watering.
June 3, 2026
A Timeless Escape: Gardens and Grandeur at Winterthur
U.S. World Garden Tour
Location and Time: Motor Coach departs the Crofton Commuter Lot at 9:00 AM and travels to Winterthur Museum, Garden and Library located in Winterthur, DE. The bus departs Winterthur at approximately 3:30 PM and returns to Crofton at 5:15 PM.
Program: Members enjoy a delightful day exploring Winterthur Museum, Garden and Library, nestled in the rolling hills of the Delaware Valley. The visit begins with a narrated tram ride through the estate’s 60-acre garden, where seasonal blooms, shady woodlands, and carefully designed landscapes reflect Henry Francis du Pont’s horticultural vision.
Inside the 175-room mansion, members discover exquisite American decorative arts and beautifully furnished period rooms that showcase early American style. A relaxing lunch at the Visitor Center café and time to browse the gift shop round out a day filled with beauty, history, and shared enjoyment.
Special Note: The charge per person is dependent on the number of passengers.
Hostesses: Sandy Robertson (Lead), Kathy Puhak, Doris Smith, and Diane Stovel
Board Meeting: Wednesday, August 26, 2026, Crofton Community Library, 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM
Sustainable Gardening: Fill your beds with pollinator favorites like bee balm (Monarda didyma) and butterfly milkweed (Asclepias tuberosa). Water deeply and early in the day with soaker hoses to conserve moisture.
Program: Members enjoy a delightful day exploring Winterthur Museum, Garden and Library, nestled in the rolling hills of the Delaware Valley. The visit begins with a narrated tram ride through the estate’s 60-acre garden, where seasonal blooms, shady woodlands, and carefully designed landscapes reflect Henry Francis du Pont’s horticultural vision.
Inside the 175-room mansion, members discover exquisite American decorative arts and beautifully furnished period rooms that showcase early American style. A relaxing lunch at the Visitor Center café and time to browse the gift shop round out a day filled with beauty, history, and shared enjoyment.
Special Note: The charge per person is dependent on the number of passengers.
Hostesses: Sandy Robertson (Lead), Kathy Puhak, Doris Smith, and Diane Stovel
Board Meeting: Wednesday, August 26, 2026, Crofton Community Library, 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM
Sustainable Gardening: Fill your beds with pollinator favorites like bee balm (Monarda didyma) and butterfly milkweed (Asclepias tuberosa). Water deeply and early in the day with soaker hoses to conserve moisture.
|
“ The garden must please the eye and the spirit. It should
reveal its beauty slowly, like a walk through a poem.” Henry Francis du Pont |
