by Earl Ekman

On Saturday, Oct. 1st, we will have our first ever Bonsai Show at Hidden Hill Nursery in Utica, Indiana. This is just across the river and very easy to get to. The nursery is open from 9AM to 6PM but plan on arriving at 8AM with your trees, stands, viewing stones and other items you plan on bringing. We will need approximately 30 nice trees with stands. Please contact Gene Sewell and let him know when you can work at the show. The more people we, have the better. People always have questions, and it makes it nice when we have plenty of people there to answer them. We will be raffling a tree, singing up people for beginner workshops, offering memberships, and doing pruning demonstrations. Lee Squires and Tom McCurry will be doing the demos.

This should be a wonderful experience for all of us. The Gardens are beautiful and Bob Hill has hundreds of sculptures and whimsical items to view. Bob has also arranged for a musical duo called Ad Libra to play soft rock, folk and blues music. The garden sends out 3,400 newsletters and 700 e-mails to customers. There should be lots of plant people there. I've already received my newsletter. There's a beautiful picture of Tom McCurry's trident maple.

On Sept. 17th we had a field trip to Hollander's Tiny Tree's and Dave Bogan's bonsai collection and green house. What a wonderful trip. Dave Bogan is a true dyed in the wool bonsaist. He has approximately 200 trees, every one beautiful and in great condition. He built his own greenhouse and everything is designed for the bonsai enthusiast. Next time we go, it's worth the trip just to see his greenhouse.

October 29, I will be 70 years old so I am going to have a birthday party. I haven't had one since I was 21 years old, so Sandy is throwing one for me. I'm inviting all my bonsai friends and family and other friends. I hope all of you can make it. It will start at 6PM at our house and there will be lots of food and drinks. Please come and help me celebrate.

Speaking of parties, the Christmas party will be December 3rd at the King Buffet, same place we met last year. Start time will be 6PM. Directions will be published next month.

November 22, at Bon Air Library will have a discussion on winterizing your trees. Several members will discuss their techniques and what works for them. This is an important meeting.

Best regards - Earl