President's Message

Summer has been busy in many ways – filled with education and communication.  We started off May 1-3 with Symposium 2009 sponsored by the New Mexico Judges Council.  Julia Clevett, design instructor, showed us how to hide mechanics in floral designs.  She created some of the “New Design Types” for discussion and study.  James Schmidt, horticulture instructor, covered combination plantings in containers emphasizing thrillers, fillers, spillers.  Both instructors were extremely knowledgeable and left everyone feeling revived and educated.

Texas Garden Clubs hosted the 2009 National Convention in Houston May 13-18.  Renee Blaschke was installed as our new NGC President for 2009-2011.  There were many wonderful programs: Smokey Bear and Woodsy Owl, high school essay contest, Gold Days Daffodils, and a new on-line NGC certified Garden Studies Program.  I have named only a few here.  There is something for everyone – whether in gardening or design.  May was also significant for me personally – I received my diploma and am now a “Certified National Design Instructor.”

Here in New Mexico our garden clubs have been busy working on programs of their own.  Jean Digerness, President of Santa Rosa Garden Club is working on a youth program.  Hopefully the initial efforts will blossom and the next generation of garden clubs will begin to form.  Santa Rosa also held a beautiful flower show.  Our very own Cynthia Shafer, Editor of New Mexico Gardener, publishes a newsletter for her garden club members.  It contains a message from their president, member updates, and upcoming events.  In the July/August issue there was an article on Lemon Balm (Melissa officinalis).  Cynthia designed the newsletter with the Lincoln County Garden Club logo.  Angel Fire Garden Club invited my husband and me to attend their annual garden tour.  We were welcomed by the club members and made to feel very special during our time there.  Penni Davey chaired the event and did a wonderful job of coordinating all of the activities.  The Blue Star Memorial was very moving.  Many of the ladies taking the tour and attending the luncheon were so impressed they expressed interest in joining the club.

Districts I and II are busy planning for the Fall Board Meeting scheduled for October 29-30 at the Courtyard Marriott in Journal Center.  District IV has started plans for the 2010 State Convention.

East Mountains Garden Club invited me to one of their events.  We visited an organic garden in Chilili.  Everyone was excited and happy to be on the tour.  The members meet every other week just to hike up in the mountains and see the native plants.  They have approximately 100 members who really enjoy being together - gardening, designing and helping in their community.  Their motto is: “Just ask a friend and they will come!”

This is the first issue of the New Mexico Gardener being sent via e-mail.

My term is just beginning and it is very exciting and rewarding; it is my pleasure to serve as President of New Mexico Garden Clubs, Inc. and carry out the theme – “Educate – Communicate – Leave a Legacy.”

Shirley Tetreault

                          
Al & Shirley Tetrault,
NMGC President
2009 - 2011

New Mexico Garden Clubs, Inc.

Land of Enchantment

Spirit Haven Ranch
Home of the Hinker family