Home Show had strong first day despite downpour

Photos by Tom Rivers

KNOWLESVILLE – Michael Klepp and Darlene Hartway are at the booth for the Orleans County Chamber of Commerce on Saturday afternoon during the Chamber’s Home Garden and Outdoor Show.

Klepp, a nature teacher, gave a presentation about “Bountiful Butterflies” and the benefits of having pollinators in gardens.

Hartway is the executive director fo the Chamber. She said the event had a strong first day, despite a downpour in the afternoon.

There are 25 vendors at the show, up for 14 last year. The event was cancelled in 2020 and 2021 due to Covid restrictions.

The show continues today from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Orleans County 4-H Fairgrounds. There is no admission charge.

Gertie Montulli greets the Easter Bunny (Michelle Wiseman in costume) in a booth set up by Best of Tymes Party Rentals.

Presenters today include Nancy Haas of Larkin Tree Care at noon, “Buying & Selling in 2023” by Mark Zambito of BHHS Zambito Realtors at 1 p.m., and “Weed Control” by master gardener Erica Joan Wanecki at 2 p.m.

The show includes a raffle to win a fully installed blooming garden designed by Preston Landscaping, with trees, shrubs and plants; a wooden bistro set; or a pair of gravity chaise lounges.

Aaron Preston, owner of Preston Landscaping in Albion, said he was glad to be back at the show. He said he gets many leads from potential customers during the two-day event, and is glad to answer questions from people about how to improve their property.

Preston provides landscaping and hardscaping services, and this year is promoting drip irrigation for people to care for their lawns and gardens.