Flowers and Youth Bloom in Chestnut Ridge

BY CAROLYN JOHNSON

All over Rockland County, tulips are in full bloom. One majestic view of these quintessential spring flowers in red and gold is at the park at Chestnut Ridge, on the corner of Chestnut Ridge Road (45) and Red Schoolhouse Road. Mayor Jerome Kobre exercised outstanding leadership when he turned a vacant gas station into a beautiful park several years ago, even completing the project under budget. Each season, this park provides residents and passersby a colorful array of flowers, with this month’s tulips at the high point of stunning beauty.

On weekends, wedding and other parties pose for photos in this picturesque background. Thanks to local landscaper, flower aficionado and life-long village resident Ron Miller, I caught an elaborate Quinceañera (15th birthday celebration, similar to a Sweet 16) photo shoot in honor of Dubetzi Puentes. Ronald Leon, Anthony Yantuche, Danny Unacho, Jerry Hares & Junior Pinos, Dubetzi Puentes, Britney Paredes, Karla Arevalo, Cassandra Flores, Kimberly Diaz, Victoria Rodriguez, all residents of Spring Valley, were happy to share photos of this joyous occasion with us.

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