President Nancy Baldwin called the meeting of the Hillsboro Garden Club to order with members standing for the Pledge of Allegiance and singing of “God Bless America.” Roll call showed 14 members present, four absentees and one guest, Darlene Eicher.
The Horticulture Specimen of the Month was displayed by Mary Smith. As the extreme windy and wet weather had destroyed her iris and peony blooms, she was able to salvage a lovely rhododendron bloom accompanied by arum leaves. Leaves were conditioned by soaking them overnight in a solution of one teaspoon instant starch and three cups water, which left them slightly stiffened and longer lasting.
Examples of floral arrangements in the fair design classes were displayed prior to the business meeting. Nancy Baldwin presented an alfresco table setting. A Fourth of July theme was shown with a colorful table overlay, a stars and stripes “hat” containing a mix of flowers and greenery, and red, white and blue tableware appropriate for an outdoor meal. Beryl Gruelle then explained items contained in her “tool kit” and showed how they were used as she created an inspirational design titled “Chapel in the Woods.” Her unique driftwood was accented with yellow sunflowers and zebra grass.
Nancy Sonner reported the results of regional contests entered: an excellent award for the publicity book prepared by Ruth Anna Duff and a superior award for the program book prepared by Carol Gorby. Seven members and one guest attended the meeting: Ruth Anna Duff, Carol Gorby, Beryl Gruelle, Larry and Judy Moore, Andrea Schneider, Nancy Sonner and Jennifer West. There were lots of “finds” at the sales tables and a delicious luncheon.
An Exhibitors and Judges School was attended by Carol Gorby and Nancy Sonner. Subjects covered were growing and showing iris and peony blooms and planning a flower show. There was an outstanding display of period arrangements showing the evolution of floral design. Each design was distinctly different and very much a history lesson. There was also a workshop on horizontal designs. So much great information to absorb from wonderful designers. As always, sales tables with plants, containers, supplies and other useful items were available to purchase.
Raffle tickets from the OAGC were available to members to purchase to sell to others. Profits from the sale will go to Mohican School to enable children to attend classes and provide transportation as a part of a continuing partnership between the OAGC and Mohican School.
The meeting was adjourned and refreshments were served by Ruth Anna Duff.
Submitted by Carol Gorby, Hillsboro Garden Club secretary.
