New Officers Installed at June Meeting

The West Trenton Garden Club wrapped up its season on June 1 with an evening that combined celebration, good food, and plenty of creativity. Members gathered for the installation of the club's officers and board members for the 2026–2028 term, followed by a pot luck buffet and a lively Place Setting Contest.

Anne Chmielewski, center, recognizes outgoing officers, Anne Skalka (L) and Karen Lewandowski (R)

Anne Chmielewski led the installation ceremony, beginning with special recognition of two outgoing officers, President Anne Skalka and Recording Secretary Karen Lewandowski. Anne shared kind words about their service and dedication to the club and presented each with a beautiful plant as a token of appreciation. She then welcomed the incoming officers, recognizing each member's willingness to serve and presenting them with a lovely plant to mark the occasion.

Incoming club President, Elle Belcheff

The newly installed officers are:

• Elle Belcheff – President

• Linda Reasoner – Vice-president

• Rick Lazarick – Treasurer

• Barbara Lear – Recording Secretary

• Victoria Rivera-Cruz – Corresponding Secretary

Treasurer Rick Lazarick & VP Linda Reasoner

The Board of Directors:

Two-Year Terms

• George McElrath

• Ginny Sari

• Monique Bonnier

• Lynn Grillo

One-Year Terms

• Mary Corrigan

• Jeff Tryon

Congratulations and best wishes to all of our new officers and directors as they begin their terms of service.

Following the installation, members enjoyed a pot luck buffet featuring a wide variety of homemade dishes. As always, the food was excellent, and the evening provided a wonderful opportunity to relax, catch up with friends, and celebrate another successful year for the club. Members also brought their own place settings, silverware, and floral arrangements for the evening's Place Setting Contest. The tables were filled with color, imagination, and plenty of conversation as everyone admired the creative displays.

Place Setting Contest

Newly installed President Elle Belcheff and new board member, Jeff Tryon, served as judges for the club’s Place Setting Contest, where members showcased their creativity through four themed table displays.

America 250 Celebration Patriotic

Red, white, and blue decorations, colonial touches, historic Americana, and interpretations of our nation’s landscapes and traditions honored the upcoming 250th anniversary of the United States.

Winner: Linda Gerasimowicz

Farmhouse Harvest

Rustic charm took center stage with baskets, herbs, wooden textures, sunflowers, berries, and kitchen-garden inspiration and an opportunity to practice designs for our upcoming flower show.

Winner: Monique Bonnier

Seaside Summer Escape

Coastal colors, shells, driftwood, sea glass, beach grasses, and breezy summer styling brought the shore to life.

Winner: Mary Corrigan

Storybook Table

Favorite books, fairy tales, literary characters, and beloved childhood classics inspired imaginative and whimsical displays.

Winner: Lynn Grillo

The evening was a wonderful way to celebrate the club's accomplishments, recognize those who serve, and enjoy the friendship that makes the West Trenton Garden Club such a special organization.