Warwick Got a bit of “cabin fever?” Then visit the open house of Winter-in-Bloom, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday, March 25, at The General’s Garden, a Warwick greenhouse. The event is for everyone waiting for spring, remembering the smells of moist earth, and the promise of newly budded plants. Since it began in 2002, Warwick in Bloom, Warwick’s community beautification committee has been a visible force in the look of Warwick. It is a not-for-profit, all volunteer organization which raises money through donations from individuals and local businesses, and an annual garden party and auction. From the very beginning, it has enjoyed the support and expertise of Warwick gardeners in its many ambitious projects. Deborah Sweeton, of The Generals Garden, had this to say, “There have always been a few people who just had to stop by the greenhouses in the winter. You can see them relax as soon as they see all that green and smell that air. I’m glad we can open a bit early this year to let everybody in.” Members of Warwick in Bloom will be on hand to answer questions about volunteering opportunities, and master gardener Heidi Hamilton, and growers Deborah and Michael Sweeton, among others, will be available to answer planting and garden questions. There will be refreshments and families are welcome. In 2003, Warwick took first place in a national beautification competition, called “America in Bloom.” The volunteers of Warwick-in-Bloom organized that event, and the programs continue today. Almost a hundred planters filled with colorful plants and flowers are placed in high traffic areas around Warwick. These are planted by local growers and greenhouses, with seasonal plantings. In addition, over 50 black sleeves were purchased to fit the parking meters in the village. In 2004, with other community minded groups such as Provident Bank, Arace and Co., The Merchants Guild, and the Warwick Valley Chamber of Commerce, the group donated a new set of holiday decorations for the utility poles in the village. Warwick in Bloom has developed projects in the Warwick schools, and sponsors walks and hikes in the parks and preserved lands around Warwick. Volunteers who are interested in helping develop an appreciation of beauty and nature around Warwick are invited to join the group. The first two annual Garden Party and Auctions were held at the gardens of John Vandenburg in Florida, and featured a lively auction of birdhouses as interpreted by area artists. In 2006, it will be held at Applewood Orchards on Sunday, June 11. The General’s Garden is located on Sandfordville Road in Warwick. Admission is free. Donations and volunteers are sought. For more information, call 258-0405 or visit www.warwickinfo.net/wib.