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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

Lafayette Theatre Packs October With Movies, Halloween Events and Local Premiere

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October will be a busy month at the Lafayette Theatre, with the historic Suffern movie house offering a lineup that ranges from highly anticipated new films and local filmmaking to family Halloween favorites and cult classics.

And with tickets priced at $10 or less, the theater is making it possible for moviegoers to take in several of the month’s events without breaking the bank.

Among the highlights is the October 8 homecoming premiere of Concessions, a film shot at the Lafayette Theatre with the participation of local Rockland County extras. The premiere will feature a live question-and-answer session with the film’s director and cast. Additional screenings are planned for October 16–18.

The October schedule also includes Verity, based on Colleen Hoover’s bestselling novel and starring Anne Hathaway, Dakota Johnson and Josh Hartnett. The mystery-thriller centers on a writer who discovers a series of disturbing secrets while working on an unfinished manuscript.

Moviegoers can also see Digger, starring Tom Cruise, a film that has already attracted attention as awards season approaches.

Halloween will bring several special screenings to the Lafayette.

The Addams Family will screen October 31 and November 1, giving families a chance to celebrate the holiday with the famously creepy and kooky Addams clan.

Horror fans can also experience A Nightmare on Elm Street on the big screen. The 1984 classic helped establish Freddy Krueger as one of horror’s most recognizable villains.

For those looking for a more interactive Halloween experience, The Rocky Horror Picture Show returns October 31. Doors open at 8 p.m., with the film beginning at 9 p.m.

The Apoca-Lips Shadow Cast will return for the screening, featuring a preshow, audience participation and costumes. Prop bags will also be available.

With a combination of new releases, classic films, local talent and Halloween traditions, the October schedule offers something for movie fans of all ages — while continuing the Lafayette Theatre’s role as a gathering place for the local community.

Tickets are on sale now.

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Entertainment

In Plain Sight World Premiere at Penguin Rep Theatre | Sept. 25–Oct. 18, 2026

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Penguin Rep Theatre in Stony Point, New York, has announced the complete cast for the world premiere of In Plain Sight, a new play by acclaimed playwright Michael McKeever (Daniel’s Husband, Mr. Parker). Directed by Penguin founding Artistic Director Joe Brancato, the production runs September 25 through October 18, 2026, concluding Penguin Rep’s 2026 season.

The play follows Elliot and Alan, a couple preparing to marry after 11 years together, as buried secrets and difficult choices from the past threaten their future. The play explores love, identity, family, and the consequences of choices made long ago.

The cast includes Stephen Dexter, Remidy Dixon, Lana Gordon, Russell Saylor, and Derek Smith. Smith, a Tony nominee and winner of multiple theatre awards, previously collaborated with McKeever and Brancato on Mr. Parker.

McKeever’s plays have been produced throughout the United States, Canada, and Europe. His work Daniel’s Husband was first produced by Penguin Rep before transferring to New York City, as did Penguin productions of After and Mr. Parker.

Performances take place at Penguin Rep Theatre, 7 Crickettown Road, Stony Point, an intimate, air-conditioned converted barn with comfortable seating and free parking.

For ticket information visit https://www.penguinrep.org/ or call 845-786-2873.

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