EMERSON—Emerson celebrated the second annual opening of its Enchanted Forest, a whimsical, fantastical wonderland, behind the offices of the Board of Education, on a clear June 11.
Organizer Daniela Musano said the installation, powered by volunteers, had tripled in size since its October 2020 inauguration. Opening night this year was enjoyed by more than 60 people.
“I wish I was able to take a photo of all the kids and families enjoying the Enchanted Forest tonight! Once everything was in place I stepped back and just watched you all really enjoy the installation. The crew of fairy volunteers that stepped up this year was amazing! Thank you for jumping on this venture with me — my heart is full,” Musano said online.
She thanked Kevin Frank for donating his time to make the event flyer; Superintendent Brian Gatens and the Board of Education; Stephanie Clark-Cinotti, chair of the Emerson Environmental Commission “for donating her time and printing the cards to support our seed distribution”; DLM design for the original Enchanted Forest sign; Larry Hage for the new sign; “many Girl Scout troops for painting rocks”; and “of course a huge thank you to our monarch butterfly, Lynn Needle from Art of Motion Dance Theatre, a non-profit dance studio in Ridgewood.”
Supporters were effusive, posting in part:
- “You did wonderful! Thank you for this!”
- “Thank you for another magical evening in the forest! It’s such a special thing you do organizing this.”
- “Thank you for bringing this magic to our community!”
- “Thank you so much for your vision and leadership to pull off an amazing event! Was so happy to be a part of this event!”
For more information, follow Emerson Enchanted Forest on Facebook.
