Chapman honored by state parks
SARATOGA SPRINGS — Sunnyside Gardens owner Ned Chapman has been honored for his support of a “Flower Power” program at area state parks.
Chapman created “Plants for Parks,” a new partnership between state parks and local nurseries and independent flower growers, designed to beautify area state parks and historic sites.
Local businesses involved with a new “Flower Power” trade association have donated flowers and plants to nearby park facilities. The parks get colorful gardens and floral displays to greet the public, while park patrons learn how they can improve their own home gardens with help from local nurseries.
“We get a lot of great compliments from our patrons on the beautiful displays,” said Mike Greenslade, Saratoga Spa State Park manager.
The park’s Route 9 entrance is currently adorned with holiday greenery, thanks to a New York State Christmas Tree Farmers Association gift, obtained through the Flower Power program. The association has supplied wreaths, roping and trees to brighten up parks and historic sites for winter programs.
Plant donations have run the gamut — hanging baskets on park entrance booths, doorway displays at park offices, and fullblown flower gardens.
“Sunnyside Gardens has been a special supporter of Saratoga Spa State Park for many years and we thank Ned for his generosity in taking on this new initiative to expand support for parks and sites throughout the region and the state,” said Heather Mabee, Saratoga-Capital Region parks commission chair.
In another project, “Flower Power” donated 6,500 flowering spring bulbs that were planted at Crailo State Historic Site, a Colonial Dutch museum in Rensselaer.
“We can’t wait to see the result this spring,” said Alane Ball Chinian, regional parks director.
Chapman was presented with a framed photograph and certificate of appreciation at Thursday’s regional parks commission meeting, at Spa State Park.