President's Letter April 2019

Dear Friends,

Spring is in the air, and it will feel great to putter about in the garden once again. Recently, ten of our members had an early taste of spring. They traveled to Philadelphia to enjoy the Philadelphia Flower Show. This year’s theme was Flower Power. There were exhibits of a “Woodstock 1968 Garden,” complete with tie-dye t-shirts and lava lamps; a memory garden in honor of those who suffer from dementia or have loved ones who suffer; walls of orchids; a color wheel made with flowers; and a magnificent display from the competitors of the FTD World Cup of floral design. In short, it was a feast for the senses, with plenty of inspiration for gardeners and designers. Carole Obernesser was our travel agent extraordinaire. She worked tirelessly to schedule visits to the flower show and surrounding museums and attractions. Those who attended the trip to Philadelphia were thankful Carole put together such a dynamic itinerary. Please check our SLGC website for photos from the trip.

Our Charitable Projects co-chairs, Sandy Holmes and Carol Provan, have worked long hours to review the 22 projects which applied for grants this year. They have convened meetings, researched organizations and carefully assembled a tremendous list of worthy projects for our consideration. I give heartfelt thanks for their leadership and dedication. See below for the slate of projects and to vote. Please remember, if you have not yet had a chance to donate to Charitable Projects, Carol and Sandy will gladly accept your contribution until June 30, 2019.

There is more good news to share! Cynthia Druckenbrod and Amy Miller have produced a creative and beautiful schedule for our fall flower show, entitled Cornucopia. The show will be October 19-20 at the Orange Community Senior Center on Chagrin Blvd. Our co-chairs have been busy planning workshops and family activities. Look for a chrysanthemum planting workshop in June. And, on April 18, Susan White and I will host a seed starting workshop at Susan’s spacious garage. Please check the details below. Margaret Krudy, our Floral Design Chair, is planning floral design workshops for May (the intermediate level) and early fall (beginners level).

With the warming spring sun and lengthening days, the activity level for our club increases. I hope you will join in the fun!