“Beautify the World  - Plant Natives”

Jean Roseman, 2009 - 2011 FGCM President

I was proud to see how many attended the 77th Central Region Meeting in Naperville, IL. I am sure it does help to have our Central Region Director from our own state: Joan Hood.

We have had four Blue Star Memorial dedications this past summer and fall and one re-dedication. What better way to honor our veterans than to dedicate Blue Star Markers with these very special ceremonies. Be thinking now where your club might place a Blue Star Memorial Marker and start working toward making it a reality. I understand that two more have been ordered for next spring.

It is time to get busy with your clubs to plan what type of projects you and the club would like to do for the coming year. There are many awards listed in the Garden Club Manual. The Books of Evidence are much easier to assemble if you keep the information and photos from the beginning of a project.

Be sure to mark your 2010 calendars now for our 77th FGCM Convention “Swing into Spring”. Hosted by Mid-Central District on April 22-24, we will gather at the Doubletree Hotel & Conference Center, Chesterfield, MO. Mid-Central District is planning wonderful tours for us to pick from and I know you are really going to enjoy this convention.

Membership is a big concern to our organization. I’m asking that each club have a publicity chairman to spread the word about your local garden club, districts and FGCM. Create brochures or business cards to let others know who and what you’re doing in your community. Your enthusiasm, knowledge and making a difference in your communities will inspire others to want to join a garden club.

The Scholarship Chairman has been sending application forms out all over our state. If you know somebody that is studing subjects within our guidelines, please mention that these scholarships are available to them. Applications are due by March 1.

I hope you have enjoyed the holidays with your family. Now you can sit in your recliners and look at all the garden catalogs and dream and plan your spring flower beds. Be sure to include some new native plants in your designs!

Jean Roseman