June 20th, 2009
Senator Seward, Assemblyman Lopez to be Honored At Landis Arboretum Garden Party
The Landis Arboretum will acknowledge two popular and respected New York State legislators at its annual Summer Solstice Soiree on June 20. This year’s summer fundraising event will honor New York State Senator James L. Seward and Assemblyman Peter Lopez – both of whom have been instrumental in supporting initiatives at the not-for-profit Arboretum, including on-going work to establish a universally accessible garden.
According to Senator Seward, “It is always a pleasure to visit Landis. Energized by volunteer effort, this once best-kept secret of the northern Catskills has gained international recognition for its notable northeast oak collection and nature programs. I’m proud that it is within my district.”
The gala evening will include:
- A twilight dinner by Sweet Tooth Caterers (Esperance, NY);
- The artistry of classical guitarist and Albany resident William Simcoe;
- Open and silent auctions with an abundance of items from regional businesses;
- An exhibit of art focused on global warming by award-winning artist and Arboretum ISA Certified Arborist Fred Breglia of Glen, NY. Selected works of Mr. Breglia’s recently completed month-long exhibit on Global Warming: When Trees Talk – will be on display at the renovated Welcome Center during the Garden Party;
- Table centerpieces will be auctioned at end of the event.
Convivial laughter and the scent of flowers will fill the night air as Arboretum Trustees and volunteers work in tandem to heighten awareness of and raise funds for educational initiatives at Landis and its legacy Van Loveland and Quarry gardens.
It all takes place on Saturday, June 20, from 4:30 – 8:30 PM. Tickets are available ($40/person until June 10; $45 thereafter). Tables of eight, $320. To reserve, or for more information, contact the Arboretum at 518.875./6935 or info@landisarboretum.org.
Arboretum Board President Anne Donnelly (Lawyersville) makes no secret of her excitement about the event and its honorees, Senator Seward and Assemblyman Lopez. “Regardless of one’s political persuasion, both of these men continue to be supportive of our work at the Arboretum,” she says.
“Senator Seward has been a long time supporter of Landis – and without his help we would never have completed the critical electrical upgrades needed to continue operations at Landis.”
“Assemblyman Lopez has championed our efforts to establish a handicapped accessible garden at Landis and his support has energized others to help as well. Indeed, it will be our honor to acknowledge them at the June 20 Soiree.”
About Guitarist William Simcoe;
Classical Guitarist William Simcoe is International soloist, accompanist, ensemble leader and organizer, and recording artist from Albany, NY.
Mr. Simcoe has performed with guitarists from around the world including Argentine guitarist Jose Luis Merlin, Brazilian guitarist Marcos Vinicius, and French guitarist Thibault Cauvin. In 2006, he performed at the Ordu International Guitar
Festival in Ordu, Turkey. In 2008, he performed for the Classical Guitar Academy of Milan. He has two recordings distributed by Eroica Classical Recordings, “Studies, Memories & Moons” and “Mis Suenos de Tango”.
In the Albany area he has performed in venues including Troy Savings Bank Music Hall, the Linda Norris Auditorium, Caffe Lena, The Hyde Collection, Red Square, 70 Beekman Street Art Gallery, and Kripalu Center. He has performed with cellist
Lisa Nielson as Spiral Duo. He performs with flautist Elisabeth Williams as Spiral Tango. He is one of the founders of the Classical Guitar Society for Upstate New York, and is a past president of the Capital District Classical Guitar Society. He is the president of the Monday Musical Club of Albany. Learn more and hear for yourself: visit http:www.williamsimcoe.com and at cdbaby.com/cd/simcoe.
