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Native Plants Gaining Ground in Rockland County Gardens: Free Workshop in Pomona on June 28

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POMONA, NY — Gardeners throughout Rockland and Bergen Counties are embracing a sustainable landscaping trend that’s taking root across the Hudson Valley: the use of native plants. These regionally adapted species offer low-maintenance, eco-friendly alternatives to traditional garden plants, while providing crucial support for pollinators, local wildlife, and overall ecosystem health.

With benefits that range from water conservation to improved soil quality, native plants are becoming a go-to choice for environmentally conscious homeowners and garden enthusiasts alike.
🌱 Why Native Plants Are a Smart Choice

Native plants have evolved to thrive in the local climate, which makes them an ideal solution for both beginner and experienced gardeners. The benefits of using native species in your landscape include:

Reduced water and fertilizer needs once established

Natural attraction for hummingbirds, butterflies, and other pollinators

Options for deer-resistant varieties

Improved soil structure and erosion control

Better stormwater absorption and water filtration

Increased resilience to the region’s climate conditions

Minimal need for chemical pesticides or herbicides

However, experts emphasize that success with native plants depends on choosing the right varieties for your garden’s conditions and understanding their basic care requirements.

Free Native Plant Workshop in Pomona – June 28 at 1 PM

To educate the public and empower homeowners to “go native,” Down to Earth Living in Pomona, NY, will host a free community workshop on Saturday, June 28 at 1 p.m. The event will feature guest expert Josh, who will share practical advice on how to successfully incorporate native plants into your garden.

Attendees will learn about:

Selecting native plants suited to sunlight and shade conditions

Soil types, preparation techniques, and best planting practices

Watering and fertilization tips for long-term success

Basic plant anatomy and hybridization insights

This is an excellent opportunity for local residents to gain expert knowledge and hands-on tips for building a low-maintenance, pollinator-friendly landscape that supports the environment and adds natural beauty to any property.

Workshop Details:

What: Native Plant Gardening Workshop
Where: Down to Earth Living, 1040 Route 45, Pomona, NY
When: Saturday, June 28, 2025 – 1:00 PM
Cost: FREE (open to the public)

For more information, visit www.downtoearthliving.com or call (845) 354-8500.

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Entertainment

Penguin Rep Theatre Premieres Flawless, a New Play About AI and Creativity, Sept. 26–Oct. 9

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STONY POINT, NY — A timely and thought-provoking new play is taking the stage this fall, offering audiences a humorous yet compelling exploration of the relationship between human creativity and artificial intelligence.

Titled Flawless, the production runs from September 26 through October 9 at a regional theater located in a converted 19th-century barn in Stony Point, New York. The show is directed by the theater’s founding artistic director and features a cast of both seasoned and emerging stage performers.

Described by the director as “a striking and humorous new work about the impending intersection of technology, creativity, and chemistry,” Flawless tells the story of a playwright and a software designer who team up to create the next great theatrical masterpiece—with help from AI. But as the line between art and algorithm begins to blur, the characters face unexpected questions about authenticity, control, and collaboration.


★ Acclaimed Cast and Creative Team

The production features an accomplished cast, including:

  • A television and stage actor with recurring roles on Homeland, Billions, and Chicago Med, and performances Off-Broadway with companies such as Mint Theater and TFANA.

  • A Broadway national tour veteran known for performances in Company.

  • A returning actor who has appeared at theaters across the country, including the Cleveland Play House, Dorset Theatre Festival, and Florida Studio Theatre.

Behind the scenes, the creative team includes award-winning designers responsible for set, lighting, sound, projections, and costumes. The production also benefits from a movement coordinator and a professional stage manager.


🏛️ Intimate Venue with Historic Charm

Performances are held at a professional regional theater housed in a restored hay barn dating back to circa 1880. With only 108 seats, the venue offers audiences an intimate experience—“no seat is more than 30 feet from the stage,” according to theater staff.

The space is fully climate-controlled, ADA accessible, and offers free parking on-site.


🎟️ Ticket Information & Special Events

  • General admission: $52

  • Advance discount: $45 if purchased by September 19

  • Special rates: Available for groups and individuals age 30 and under

The theater also offers “Cheap Thrills Fridays”, with $26 tickets available for select matinee and evening performances.

Special events during the run include:

  • Opening Day (Sept. 28): Post-show coffee and cake with the cast

  • October 4: A pre-show tasting from a local Italian restaurant

  • October 10: Post-show artist discussion with audience Q&A

  • October 17: “Pizza Friday,” with complimentary slices from a local pizzeria


📅 Performance Schedule

  • Thursdays: 7:30 PM

  • Fridays: Select matinees at 2:00 PM, evenings at 7:30 PM

  • Saturdays: 3:00 PM and 7:30 PM

  • Sundays: 2:00 PM matinees


For more information or to purchase tickets, visit the theater’s website at www.penguinrep.org or call 845-786-2873.

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Entertainment

Teen Theater Company Brings Shakespeare’s Cymbeline to Life at Antrim Playhouse August 29

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Teen Company Takes on Shakespeare with Summer Stock Production of Cymbeline

This summer, the Teen Company will embrace the classic theatrical tradition of summer stock—a fast-paced rehearsal and performance model that challenges young actors to prepare a show in a matter of weeks. Their chosen production: a shortened adaptation of Cymbeline, one of William Shakespeare’s late romances.

Cymbeline tells the story of Princess Imogen, a sharp and spirited young woman caught in a web of royal deceit. Forbidden to marry her true love, the humble Posthumus, she faces betrayal, banishment, and disguise. As she escapes into the wilderness, she encounters rustic strangers, dangerous plots, and revelations that turn everything on its head. The play features an evil queen, a foolish stepson, and King Cymbeline himself, striving to do what is right amidst the chaos.

The production is directed by Brady Amoonclark, and showcases a cast of dedicated teen performers who will bring this Shakespearean tale to life after just two weeks of intensive rehearsal.

The performance will take place on Thursday, August 29 at 7:00 PM at Antrim Playhouse in Tappan, New York. The public is invited to attend and experience the creativity and passion of these young artists.

For more information, contact the Antrim Playhouse or visit their website.

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