by George Buehler

The year is coming to a close, the tropicals have been put away for the winter, and I am waiting for several frosts to bury the evergreens and deciduous trees. It is not time to dream of sugar plum fairies, but it is getting close. It seems that as I get older the time goes faster. I enjoy this time of year because I don't have to work on trees and can catch up on my reading. I have already started my list of things I have to do next spring and, as I put away the trees, I will examine each to determine what needs to be done - wiring, transplanting, etc.

Midge Goeth proposed a mentoring program in last month's More Than Just Tofu article. At the last beginner workshop, each member present was assigned one or two people to check on. This doesn't take a lot of time - a follow up telephone to see if there are questions or to find out if the tree they worked on at the workshop has been put away for the winter. I think this will keep the novice bonsai artist interested in the hobby and hopefully get them to join the club. If you weren't at the beginner workshop, give Midge a call to volunteer to be a mentor.

In this month's newsletter, Linda Kossmann gives us a procedure on styling without making cuts on the tree. See page two for this informative idea.

On page 8, Kenny Popp presents a more advanced article on grafting a new branch on a tree. Midge Goeth recruited Kenny to write this article for her More Than Just Tofu column, but I decided to list this as Bonsai 201 since the topic is somewhat more complex. Even if you are a beginner, read the article since it will show you some of the techniques that can be used to enhance the appearance of your tree.

I have put the complete 2007 schedule in the calendar on page two. Why don't you pencil it in on the calendar on your refrigerator? I say pencil since sometimes we have to change dates due to meeting room availability or other factors. Most of the time these dates are changed several months in advance; but, if it is a last minute change, it will be listed in the calendar that "always" appear on page two.

I am also including (to local members only) a section with our financial status that was supplied by our treasurer, Tom McCurry. Our bank account is in much better shape now due to the generosity of Greg Hollander who supplied us with the plant material and pots used in last month's yard sale.

Now the good news - or bad depending on your perspective. The GLBS has the opportunity to host the 2011 ABS/BCI convention in Louisville. I know this is 5 years away, but that is how far in advance these conventions are scheduled. What does this mean to the GLBS? It is quite simple-we will have approximately 300 bonsai hobbyist from around the world in Louisville. It also means that we will need help from all the members to set up, stuff portfolios, water trees, etc. At the last combined convention (St. Louis in 2003), there were almost 100 specimen trees on exhibit. This gives everyone the opportunity to see some fantastic trees. There will also be about 15 vendors from around the country with some high quality trees and supplies for sale. Of course this event will also help build our bank account. I am really excited about this but also a little apprehensive since it will require a lot of work. As the time progresses, you will be reading more about this event.

At the Christmas party, we will vote on the new slate of officers for the club. This will be your opportunity to voice your opinion and perhaps serve the club. The club always needs people to fill the various positions. Give Earl a call if you want to serve.

Speaking of the Christmas party, this is a club event where we enjoy good companionship, have lots of laughs, get some neat door prizes, and of course have a fine meal. Plan on attending. It will be on December 2 at 6 PM. Directions and details will be in the next newsletter.

One final thought for this newsletter, It is time to send in your 2007 dues. They will still be $35 for a family membership if you want the paper version of this newsletter and $30 if you want the electronic version. Please consider getting the newsletter electronically since it will save both you and the club money.