Message from President Betty Goldstein

“Storms make trees make deeper roots.” -Dolly Parton

Dear Friends,

The tree is a magnificent example of strength and endurance and also gives us hope and courage to persevere -- even in the harshest conditions. Its deep roots keep it steady in the most severe storms. “It is in the roots that a tree’s greatest strength lies.”

Like our beautiful coral tree, we here at VRG are lucky to have deep solid roots as our foundation. Our deep roots are our committed membership and the hard working County staff.

FRG’s Very Special Board of Directors 2020-2021

Every July, the Friends of Robinson Gardens elects a new board of directors. As our wonderful President Betty Goldstein observed, these very capable and dynamic ladies have remarkable backgrounds and talents that they bring to VRG. At this time, we want to let you know more about the careers and philanthropic accomplishments of our officers: Betty Goldstein, President, Keeley Smith, Vice President, Elaine Stein, Corporate Secretary, Lynn Whitaker Corresponding secretary/HR, and Evelyn Carson, Treasurer.

Virginia Robinson Gardens Offers Extraordinary Salve: Volunteering at the Gardens

An Inspirational Message from Friends of Robinson Gardens Member Laura Coleman.

Mornings spent in the Virginia Robinson Gardens are among the most beautiful experiences imaginable. From walking through the King Palm Forest in the mist, the scent of water lifting off leaves, to that first rewarding vista of Virginia and Harry Robinson’s onetime home, every moment spent at the Gardens is a treasure.

Amidst the turmoil of the pandemic, all of us are living life to the best of our capacities. And all of us have fear in our hearts that our loved ones could be afflicted. To say that the Gardens offer an immensely soothing respite during this time is truly an understatement.

Letter of Thanks from Cedars-Sinai

On June 1, 2020, a floral “Florence Nightingale” conceived and produced by the Friends of Robinson Gardens, was installed at the Healing Gardens of Cedars-Sinai to honor our medical heroes. As Robinson Gardens board member Maralee Beck observed, “The floral tribute has proved to be as resilient as the front line responders at the medical center: she has been delighting staff, patients, and visitors for the past two months! Transfusions of her vital fluids.....water....have kept her fresh and growing, perfect for posing and drawing smiles in these unsettled times.

Our Garden Tour Star Ines Garstecki of Flowermaid

Every month, we are highlighting “Our Garden Tour Stars” -- landscape architects, florists and interior designers who have participated in our annual Garden Tour and Showcase Estate at the Virginia Robinson Gardens. We want to let you know about these very talented designers, their inspirations, and their creations.

This month, we are featuring German florist Ines Garstecki, owner of Flowermaid.

We asked her these five questions.

Spotlight on Elaine Stein

Each month we spotlight a volunteer, staff member, docent, donor, or sponsor of Virginia Robinson Gardens (VRG) -- those that have made an impact on the organization. We want to let you know about these wonderful people and corporations that give so much to the Virginia Robinson Gardens and to the community, and what they do that is so impactful.

This month, we spotlight Elaine Stein, a dedicated Friend of Robinson Gardens Executive Board Member.

JOIN OUR MAILING LIST TO STAY IN THE KNOW!

SUBSCRIBE