Some History
A community garden board was established to bring to fruition the community garden concept proposed by the Town of Silverthorne's Economic Development Advisory Committee’s WOW Sub-Committee.
One of EDAC’s goals is to provide recommendations on beautification options in Silverthorne, and a community garden was determined by the WOW subcommittee to be one such option. EDAC members Larry Lunceford, Eddie O’Brien, and Marc Hogan initially brought forth the concept of a community garden in April 2007. Town Council indicated in June 2007 that if community leadership and administration, private funding, and an appropriate site plan could all be established the garden concept should be given consideration through the Town’s site plan process.
Community members began diligently working toward this goal. Co-coordinators Linda Hrycaj and Marie Orlin are leading the garden board in their mission to create a working community garden that invites individuals and families from all backgrounds, regardless of gardening experience. The goal is to develop a hands-on garden that integrates education, creative expression, cooperation, and community spirit.
In memory of Silvana Del Piccolo
Silvana's Community Garden is named after the late Silvana Del Piccolo.
Silvana, a lady of great dignity and compassion, was born and raised in Milan, Italy. There she earned her first of two law degrees and specialized in intellectual property. Silvana met her husband Luciano Del Piccolo in 1963 and they were married in New York City in 1966. She served as Italian legal counsel for a New York law firm until she and Lou moved to Colorado in 1968. Silvana earned her second law degree from the University of Colorado in 1970 and practiced international law in Denver until 1990 when she and Lou moved to Summit County to enjoy semi-retirement.
She was a recognized authority in international business transactions and negotiations. Silvana believed in the value of community involvement and served on the Lower Blue Planning Commission and the board of the Alpenglow Chamber Music Festival in Summit County. She was a devoted first lady of Silverthorne during Lou's tenure as Mayor.
Throughout her life she enjoyed skiing, swimming, and tennis. Her passion for classical music, gardening and outdoor sports brought her great joy along with deep and lasting friendships. She relished long hikes with her friends and dogs. Silvana inspired many during her lifetime and will be remembered for her loyal friendships, her generosity and her genuine caring for others and the Summit County Community.
She would have been deeply touched and honored to have the Community Garden in Silverthorne established in her name
~~ Barbara Leffler
Summit Foundation Community Collaboration Award
We received the Community Collaboration Award by the Summit Foundation, November 20, 2009.
The award recognizes a group's outstanding contributions to the community. Many various businesses, nonprofit and government organizations worked intensively with one another to build and develop the Silvana’s Community Gardens to address and resolve community needs and issues.
Silverthorne Mayor Dave Koop, Summit Foundation Director Lee Zimmerman, Tim Glasco, Ryan Hyland (partially hidden), Maggie Butler, Marie Orlin, Ken Deshaies (partially hidden), Linda Hrycaj, Ann Brewster, Megan Bemis (hidden), and Larry Lunceford.
Natalie Doocy with Community Collaboration Trophy