Tuesday, November 27, 2012

December 2012 Newsletter


Note from the President- First I want to thank the speaker for our October 11th, 2012 meeting Ric Adams of Laidback Garden Daylily Farm for an informative and eye appealing presentation on Daylilies.  Since Ric has been a Daylily hybridizer for more than 20 years, the information provided by him has relevancy to anybody in the Hosta world that is interested in hybridizing Hosta.    Ric’s photography skills were appreciated by the entire group and many people were writing down names of Daylilies to seek out for adding to their own gardens.  

Another year has passed for all of us and our own EMHS.  Some of our members have experienced life-changing events over the past year.  Whether it be health related, loss of a close family member, or another personal issue, we give our best wishes and prayers.    

Our club also has to do some changing to conform to the growth of the organization.  The first issue facing EMHS was the resignation of our Treasurer, Mary Smith.  Mary has done a fantastic job of keeping up with the finances of EMHS since she took the job of treasurer and we thank her for years of service.  Barb Hunter volunteered to take over the job of Treasurer and that job will take effect as soon as the bank accounts can be changed.  At present, the club account has Mark’s personal ID information associated with it and this has to be changed to remove any member’s personal information from the account.  This has become an issue because of the growth of the club and the simultaneous growth of the club account and club expenditures.  EMHS must stand on its own as an organization and not be dependent on any one member’s personal information.  This issue led us to the next issue facing EMHS this year; we are going through the beginning stages of filing for 501c3 status with the IRS and Attorney Jim Meyer from Saginaw has graciously offered to guide us through this journey. 

The next issue facing EMHS this year is the announcement that Carolyn Pickard EMHS Vice-president will not seek re-election in 2013.  Anyone interested in running for the office of Vice-president should notify any one of Board Members.  Nominations for the position of Vice-president will be made at the February 2013 meeting and voting will be at the May 2013 meeting.  The other Officers have volunteered to stay in their positions for another term, but anyone wishing to run for any office is welcome to do so. 

Another issue to resolve is the dissatisfaction of the way the annual plant exchange is run.  This issue was discussed at the October meeting and two proposals were made of ways to change the exchange.  Those proposals are: 1st; having a $5.00 table which would hold the more sought after plants donated to the exchange.  The ticket drawn would give the winner the chance to take a “free for exchange plant” or to pay $5.00 for a plant from the $5.00 table.  The 2nd option; Using the meeting sign-in sheets to ascertain which members have been to how many meetings during the preceding year.  The members that had attended all 8-9 previous meetings would be the first to be drawn at the plant exchange.  Those members that had attended 6-7 meetings would be drawn in the second round.  The third round of drawing would consist of those that attended 4-5 meetings.  Fourth round would be those that attended 2-3meetings and those that were attending their first meeting would be drawn last.  Our 3rd option is to not change anything from the way it is run now.  There will be a discussion of these proposals and a ballot vote at the December 6th, 2012 meeting to decide this issue.

The last current issue facing EMHS; we are in need of Members willing to host a summer meeting for the months of June, August, and September.  If you would be willing to host any one of the meetings, please inform Glen. 

I want to take this time to thank Mark and Becky Hanner, Jim and Ellie Vrable, Patrick and Patricia Major, Barb Hunter, and Mick and Cathy Hodgson for hosting meetings this year.  Every one of you was the perfect host and our thanks go out to you for your graciousness as a host as well as our acknowledgement of the time and dedication it takes to create the beautiful gardens you all have.   

I also want to thank all of our speakers we had this year.  Jan Everson also gives a great presentation about the gardens on the Nat’l Hosta Tour, Mark Hanner taught us how to make paper-crete pots, Doug Beilstein, President of the American Hosta Society, gave us a history lesson on the AHS as well as Hosta hybridizing, and Ric Adams gave a beautiful and informative presentation on Daylily hybridization. 

Thanks to Barb Hunter the Mayfield Twp. Hall has already been secured for all the indoor meetings for 2013.  Barb proactively filed the paperwork and paid the deposits for next year’s meetings.  Barb has been reimbursed for the deposits.  Thanks Barb for being on top of the needs of EMHS before you have officially been given the duties of the office. 

In closing I want to thank every one of you as a member of EMHS.  I want to thank you for allowing me and the EMHS Board to lead us through the past three and a half years.  The friendliness shown at EMHS functions, the wonderful speakers, the beautiful gardens, the information shared, and lastly, the fantastic food are all reasons to be proud of our club and it is because of you that EMHS continues to grow. 
Sincerely,
Glen

Next Meeting- THE EMHS 2012 Christmas Party will be held on December 6th, 2012 at the Mayfield Twp. Hall, 1900 N. Saginaw, Lapeer, MI 48446.  This is our regular meeting place located just south of the point of M-24 and N. Saginaw, (the driveway just north of the Cemetery).  The doors will open at 5:00 PM for decorating, Networking at 6:00 PM, Dinner at 6:30 PM, Gift Exchange at 7:30 PM, and Business Meeting at 8:15 PM.  For those wishing to help decorate you can arrive as early as 5:00PM.  This annual event is always a lot of fun and a great way to end the year for the club.  The Club will provide the meat (ham) and table set-ups.  We do ask that everybody bring a dish to pass as this is our biggest potluck of the year.  We will be doing the gift exchange as we have done in the past.  If you are interested in exchanging gifts, all you have to do is bring a wrapped non-gender-specific gift with a value of $10.  All the gifts will be laid at the front of the room and during the party we will call names from the sign-up sheet of the people who brought gifts.  If your name is called you go pick out a gift.  Nobody is required to bring a gift for the exchange, but if you do not bring one please understand that you will not be able to place your name on the list to pick one out.  This is the only way to assure that all people who bring a gift will receive one.

2013 Calendar of Events:
January- no EMHS meeting
Feb 14th EMHS at Mayfield Twp. Hall,
            Jan Everson speaker, 
Nominations of Officers
March- no EMHS meeting,
March 15-16th- Hosta College in Piqua, OH
April 11th- EMHS at Mayfield Twp. Hall,
May 9th- EMHS at Mayfield Twp. Hall,
            Glen Pace speaker, 
Voting of Officers
May ?- Workday at Hidden Lake Gardens
June 2- Hosta Hybridizers Group, Ann Arbor
           Matthieu Botanical Gardens
June 13th- EMHS Garden Tour
June 13-15thAHS Nat’l Meeting, Milwaukee, WI
June 22nd- MHS Garden Walk
June 27th- EMHS Bus Trip, Interlochen
June 28-29th- Great Lakes Regional Tailgate, IN
July 11th- EMHS Garden Tour,
            Helen Wischmeyer in Vassar
July 13th- Leaf Show/Plant Sale, Lansing, MI
July 28- Hosta Hybridizers Group, Ann Arbor
            Matthieu Botanical Gardens
August 8th- EMHS Garden Tour
August 25th- Annual Meeting/Workday,
            Hidden Lake Gardens, Tipton, MI
Sept. 12th- EMHS Plant Exchange
October 10th- EMHS at Mayfield Twp. Hall
Nov 3- Hosta Hybridizers Group, Ann Arbor
             Matthieu Botanical Gardens
Nov- no EMHS meeting
December 12th- EMHS Christmas Party
            at Mayfield Twp. Hall

2013 Summer Garden Tour Meetings- We need gardens to tour for our summer meetings.  The July meeting is spoken for, but we have openings for June, August, and Sept.  Please let Glen know if you are willing to host one of the aforementioned meetings.  This is your opportunity to show off your gardens!

Hosta Stones- The hybridizer for 2013 is "Indiana Bob" Balitewicz and the Hosta is Krugerrand.  H. Krugerrand is a large, upright mound, thick bright gold foliage, large leaf 14 X 10 inches up to 171/2 X 131/2 inches, 17 vein pairs, ovate shape, moderately wavy. slightly corrugated, with pale lavender flowers.
The official unveiling of the 2013 Hosta Stone will be at Hosta College in Piqua, OH on March 15th, 2013.

There are nine 2012 Hosta Stones featuring Ron Livingston’s H. “Alakazaam” left this year.  On hand are; 2 Brown, 2 Brn/Blk/Cream, 1 Moss, and 4 Iron.  The price is $35.00 for each stone.  We also have two 2011 Stones featuring Van Wade’s H. “American Halo”.  These stones are in natural color and are $30.00 each.  If interested in purchasing any of these stones please call Cathy Hodgson at 810-664-8985.

Officer Position Vacancy- Carolyn Pickard has announced her resignation as EMHS Vice-President effective as of May 2013.  We want to thank Carolyn for her years of service as an Officer for EMHS.  

Due to this resignation we are seeking nominations for a new Vice-President.  The duties of the position are;
Vice President- Assumes the duties of President when the President is absent.  Co-signatory on EMHS checking account, helps set-up hall for meetings, sends thank you notes to speakers or hosts for current meeting. 

If you are interested in helping our club in this capacity please talk with Glen, Mark, Marlene, or Barb. 

2013 Interlochen Bus Trip- June 27th, 2013
If you are planning to go on this bus tour please contact Carolyn so she has an accurate accounting of those who will be prepaying the deposit.

8:00 AM Bus will leave K Mart parking lot in Clio or Meijer parking lot in Birch Run 
9:30 AM Stop at McDonald’s in Clare for bathroom break
11:30 AM Arrive in Interlochen
Stop for lunch in Interlochen
1:30 PM Arrive at Interlochen Perennial Farm, tour, shop and reload bus to 
leave by 
3:30 PM
Arrive at Cedar Hedge Gardens, tour, shop, reload bus in 1.5-2 hours.
8:00 PM Arrive back in Clio or Birch Run

The EMHS Board by majority vote has authorized the trip to be subsidized by the club so that each member attending will pay only $25.00 (non-refundable deposit) for the trip as long as at least 30 people reserve a spot on the bus by paying the deposit in advance.  

Any immediate questions can be directed to Carolyn Pickard at 989-871-2873. 

Club Members selling Hosta or related products;
Please call or email to set an appointment before visiting
Hanner, Mark/Becky- Pottery. 
810-631-4292, mhanner@aol.com
Hunter, Barb- Hosta, Daylilies, Pond supplies.
810-664-7531, baha@chartermi.net
Lisik, Phil/Ginger-Hosta, Daylilies, other plants. 
989-642-5772, lisik46@yahoo.com
Pickard, Carolyn- Daylilies, Hosta.  
989-871-2873, robfamily5@yahoo.com
Salk, Pat/Bill Kapustka, Daylilies.                                        810-678-3519, daylilyabode@msn.com
Smith, Stan/Mary Lou, Concrete leaves, toad houses. 
989-845-3455 smlsmith@chartermi.net

Websites of Interest:
American Hosta Society- http://www.americanhostasociety.org/
American Hosta Society Convention Website- http://www.hosta2012.com/
AHS Hosta Library Website-
http://www.hostalibrary.org/
Michigan Hosta Society Website- http://www.hostahappenings.com/
Eastern Michigan Hosta Society blog-
http://easternmichiganhostasociety.blogspot.com/
Hosta College Website- http://ihostohio.com/portal/glhc/

Hosta Society Membership info-
American Hosta Society
,  $30 individual, $57/2 years, $34 family, $62/2 years
Send dues to: Sandie Markland, AHS Membership Secretary, Post Office Box 7539, Kill Devil Hills, NC 27948

Michigan Hosta Society,
Dues is $15 per household for up to two people, good for 2 years. Make checks payable to: The Michigan Hosta Society and send to; Michigan Hosta Society, 2509 Wembly Lane, Troy, MI 48084-1280

Eastern Michigan Hosta Society, Dues $5 per year per household, Make check payable to EMHS and mail to: Mary Smith, EMHS Treasurer, 3431 Swaffer Rd, Millington, MI 48746


EMHS Board of Officers:
President    Glen Pace                         pacegardens@charter.net      989-244-4029
Vice-President    Carolyn Pickard robfamily5@yahoo.com         989-871-2873
Treasurer      Mary Smith                           brooktrout@tds.net                989-871-9833
Secretary      Marlene Daniels   gardenfairy50@aol.com         810-664-8317
Past President     Mark Hanner  mhanner@aol.com                 810-631-4292
Fund-Raising    Mick/Cathy Hodgson    cehodgso@hotmail.com         810-664-8985
*Treasurer changing to; Barb Hunter   baha@chartermi.net              810-664-7531

Monday, November 26, 2012

October 11, 2012 Meeting Minutes


The Meeting was held at the Mayfield Twp. Hall on October 11th, 2012.

The doors opened at 5:00 PM to receive guests.

Networking began at 6:00 PM. 

Refreshments were served at 6:30 PM. 

The Meeting was called to order at 7:00 PM by President Glen Pace.  Visitors and new Members introduced themselves and were welcomed to the meeting by Glen.  Ric Adams, the evening’s speaker was introduced by Glen. 

Presentation- Ric Adams of Laidback Garden Daylily Farm gave an informative and eye appealing presentation on Daylilies.  Since Ric has been a Daylily hybridizer for more than 20 years, the information provided by him has relevancy to anybody in the Hosta world that is interested in hybridizing Hosta.    Ric’s photography skills were appreciated by the entire group and many people were writing down names of Daylilies to seek out for adding to their own gardens. 

Business Meeting- called to order at 8:00 PM by President Glen Pace.

Officer’s Position open- It was announced at the meeting that Carolyn Pickard will not seek re-election as Vice-President in 2013.  Carolyn was thanked for her years of service to EMHS.  Glen asked for members to consider a nomination to the position.  Nominations will be made at the Feb 2013 meeting. 

Treasurer’s Report- Mary Smith gave a treasurer’s report.    Details can be obtained at any meeting.   Barb Hunter is to take over responsibility of the Treasury as soon as the issues regarding IRS status can be answered by the attorney taking care of the filing. 

501c3 Status- Jim Meyer, an attorney in Saginaw, has graciously offered his expertise in guiding EMHS in its endeavor in obtaining 501c3 status.  Jim will do all of the filing with the proper authorities.  Glen will keep the club informed of the progress of the filing status.
  
The first project to obtaining the filing status is to have paperwork for the last 5 years of profit/loss.  Mary Smith will do this paperwork.

Plant Exchange- Mark discussed the issues members have with the annual plant exchange.  Two possible alternative methods for running the exchange were presented.  1st; having a $5.00 table which would hold the more sought after plants donated to the exchange.  The ticket drawn would give the winner the chance to take a free for exchange plant or to pay $5.00 for a plant form the $5.00 table.  

The 2nd option; Using the meeting sign-in sheets to ascertain which members have been to how many meeting during the preceding year.  The members that had attended all 8-9 previous meetings would be the first to be drawn at the plant exchange.  Those members that had attended 6-7 meetings would be drawn in the second round.  The third round of drawing would consist of those that attended 4-5 meetings.  Fourth round would be those that attended 2-3 meetings and those that were attending their first meeting would be drawn last. 

Our last option is to not change anything from the way it is run now.  There will be a vote at the December 6th, 2012 meeting to decide this issue.    

Hosta Stones- an update of Hosta Stone inventory was given by Cathy Hodgson.  Cathy has not heard from Indiana Bob as of the meeting date. 

Interlochen Bus Trip- with Carolyn Pickard being absent, Mary presented the plans for an EMHS bus trip to Interlochen next summer to visit two different nurseries.  It was decided by the EMHS Board that 30 members paying $25 (non-refundable deposit) each would be the minimum number of participants to continue with the plans for this trip.  18 people present confirmed their interest.  The cut-off date for prepayment will be announced at a later date.  Any questions regarding this trip can be directed to Carolyn Pickard. 

Next Meeting- is December 6th, 2012 at 6:00 PM at the Mayfield Twp. Hall.  This is our Annual Christmas Party. 

Adjournment- at 8:55 PM

Thursday, September 27, 2012

October 2012 Newsletter


Note from the President- Thank you Mick and Cathy Hodgson for hosting the September meeting.  The gardens are full of beautifully grown mature Hosta.  The garden faces, the statuary, and the stone are all strategically placed in the most welcoming places to further enhance ones experience.  The new garden extensions are already eye-catching and I can’t wait to see them in another year or two as undoubtedly they will be as fantastic as the rest of the gardens. 

The weather threatened our annual plant exchange at the Hodgson’s, but some quick moving people got all of the refreshments cleared from the table when the wind and drizzle started which scared Mother Nature into holding off with the rain.  I called the names in batches and very quick which caused some confusion.  I am sorry if anybody had an experience other than enjoyment.  We will discuss the plant exchange at the October meeting.  If you have suggestions of what you feel should change please write those ideas down and bring them to the meeting with you.  You can give those ideas to Glen and/or Mark. 

In this newsletter you will find the 2013 Calendar of Events.  Those dates are listed for two reasons, first to give you time to secure the dates on your calendar for 2013 and secondly to seek hosts for the June, August, and September meetings.   If you are willing to host one of the summer garden tour meetings please email or call me.

I look forward to hearing Ric Adams’ presentation at our October 11th meeting at Mayfield Twp. Hall.  I hope to see you there.
Glen

Next Meeting- Our next meeting will be held on October 11th, 2012 at the Mayfield Twp. Hall, 1900 N. Saginaw, Lapeer, MI 48446.  This is our regular meeting place located just south of the point of M-24 and N. Saginaw, (the driveway just north of the Cemetery).  The doors will open at 5:00 PM, Networking at 6:00 PM, Refreshments at 6:30 PM, Program at 7:00 PM, and Business Meeting at 7:45 PM. 

This month’s speaker is Ric Adams.  He has been a Daylily hybridizer for more than 20 years.  Ric is a teacher at Oaktree Elementary School in Goodrich where he has been for 30+ years.  EMHS visited Ric Adam’s Laidback Gardens Daylily Farm after the July meeting which was held at the Major’s. 

Officer Position Vacancy- Carolyn Pickard has announced her resignation as EMHS Vice-President effective as of May 2013.  We want to thank Carolyn for her years of service as an Officer for EMHS. 

Due to this resignation we are seeking nominations for a new Vice-President.  The duties of the position are;
Vice President- Assumes the duties of President when the President is absent.  Co-signatory on EMHS checking account, helps set-up hall for meetings, sends thank you notes to speakers or hosts for current meeting. 

If you are interested in helping our club in this capacity please talk with Glen, Mark, Marlene, or Barb. 

2012 Calendar of Events:
October 11th at Mayfield Twp. Hall, Rick Adams speaker
November- No meeting scheduled
December 6th at Mayfield Twp. Hall, Annual Christmas Party

2013 Calendar of Events:
January- no meeting
Feb 14th at Mayfield Twp. Hall, Jan Everson speaker
March- no meeting, Hosta College in Piqua, OH
April 11th- Mayfield Twp. Hall,
May 9th- Mayfield Twp. Hall, Glen Pace speaker
June 13th- Garden Tour AHS Convention in Wisconsin starts this day
July 11th- Garden Tour, Helen Wischmeyer in Vassar
August 8th- Garden Tour
Sept. 12th- Plant Exchange
October 10th- Mayfield Twp. Hall
Nov- no meeting
December 12th- Mayfield Twp. Hall, Christmas Party

2013 Summer Garden Tour Meetings- We need gardens to tour for our summer meetings.  The July meeting is spoken for, but we have openings for June, August, and Sept. 

Hosta Stones- There are nine 2012 Hosta Stones featuring Ron Livingston’s H. “Alakazaam” left this year.  On hand are; 2 Brown, 2 Brn/Blk/Cream, 1 Moss, and 4 Iron.  The price is $35.00 for each stone.  We also have two 2011 Stones featuring Van Wade’s H. “American Halo”.  These stones are in natural color and are $30.00 each.  If interested in purchasing any of these stones please call Cathy Hodgson at 810-664-8985.

2013 Interlochen Bus Trip- Date June 27th, 2013
Bus will leave K Mart parking lot in Clio or Meijer parking lot in Birch Run at 8:00 AM
Stop at McDonald’s in Clare for bathroom break at 9:30 AM
Arrive in Interlochen at 11:30
Stop for lunch in Interlochen
Arrive at Interlochen Perennial Farm at 1:30 PM, tour, shop and reload bus to leave by 3:30 PM
Arrive at Cedar Hedge Gardens, tour, shop, reload bus in 1.5-2 hours.
Arrive back in Clio or Birch Run around 8:00 PM

The EMHS Board by majority vote has authorized the trip to be subsidized by the club so that each member attending will pay only $25.00 (non-refundable deposit) for the trip as long as at least 30 people reserve a spot on the bus by paying the deposit in advance.  Details of the trip are given to give the membership time to think about the trip before the October meeting when any questions you may have will be answered by Carolyn Pickard who is acting as the director of this trip.
  
Any immediate questions can be directed to Carolyn Pickard at 989-871-2873. 

Club Members selling Hosta or related products;
Please call or email to set an appointment before visiting
Hanner, Mark/Becky- Pottery.  810-631-4292, mhanner@aol.com
Hunter, Barb- Hosta, Daylilies, Pond supplies. 810-664-7531, baha@chartermi.net
Lisik, Phil/Ginger-Hosta, Daylilies, other plants.  989-642-5772, lisik46@yahoo.com
Pickard, Carolyn- Daylilies, Hosta.   989-871-2873, robfamily5@yahoo.com
Canning, Rob- Lakeside Hostas.  810-714-1885, robslakesidehostas@gmail.com
Salk, Pat/Bill Kapustka, Daylilies.  810-678-3519, daylilyabode@msn.com
Smith, Stan/Mary Lou, Concrete leaves, toad houses.  989-845-3455 smlsmith@chartermi.net

Websites of Interest:
American Hosta Society- http://www.americanhostasociety.org/
American Hosta Society Convention Website- http://www.hosta2012.com/
AHS Hosta Library Website- http://www.hostalibrary.org/
Michigan Hosta Society Website- http://www.hostahappenings.com/
Eastern Michigan Hosta Society blog-
http://easternmichiganhostasociety.blogspot.com/
Hosta College Website- http://ihostohio.com/portal/glhc/

Hosta Society Membership info-
American Hosta Society
,  $30 individual, $57/2 years, $34 family, $62/2 years
Send dues to: Sandie Markland, AHS Membership Secretary, Post Office Box 7539, Kill Devil Hills, NC 27948

Michigan Hosta Society,
Dues is $15 per household for up to two people, good for 2 years. Make checks payable to: The Michigan Hosta Society and send to; Michigan Hosta Society, 2509 Wembly Lane, Troy, MI 48084-1280

Eastern Michigan Hosta Society, Dues $5 per year per household, Make check payable to EMHS and mail to: Mary Smith, EMHS Treasurer, 3431 Swaffer Rd, Millington, MI 48746

2012 Christmas Party- The annual EMHS Christmas Party will be on December 6th, 2012 at the Mayfield Twp. Hall, 1900 N. Saginaw, Lapeer, MI 48446.  This is our regular meeting place located just south of the point of M-24 and N. Saginaw, (the driveway just north of the Cemetery). 

For those wishing to help decorate you can arrive as early as 5:00 PM.  This annual event is always a lot of fun and a great way to end the year for the club.  The Club will provide the meat (ham) and table set-ups.  We do ask that everybody bring a dish to pass as this is our biggest potluck of the year.  We will be doing the gift exchange as we have done in the past.  If you are interested in exchanging gifts, all you have to do is bring a wrapped non-gender-specific gift with a value of $10.  All the gifts will be laid at the front of the room and during the party we will call names from the sign-up sheet of the people who brought gifts.  If your name is called you go pick out a gift.  Nobody is required to bring a gift for the exchange, but if you do not bring one please understand that you will not be able to place your name on the list to pick one out.  This is the only way to assure that all people who bring a gift will receive one.



EMHS Board of Officers:
President                     Glen Pace                    pacegardens@charter.net      989-244-4029
Vice-President             Carolyn Pickard           robfamily5@yahoo.com         989-871-2873
Treasurer                    Mary Smith                 brooktrout@tds.net                989-871-9833
Secretary                     Marlene Daniels         gardenfairy50@aol.com         810-664-8317
Past President             Mark Hanner              mhanner@aol.com                 810-631-4292
Fund-Raising      Mick and Cathy Hodgson   cehodgso@hotmail.com         810-664-8985
*Treasurer changing to;
Treasurer                    Barb Hunter                baha@chartermi.net              810-664-7531

Wednesday, September 5, 2012

August 9, 2012 Meeting Minutes


The Meeting was held at Barb Hunter’s on August 9th, 2012. 

Networking and viewing of Barb’s gardens began at 6:00 PM. 

Refreshments were served at 6:30 PM.
 
Business Meeting was called to order at 7:30 PM by President Glen Pace.  Visitors and new Members introduced themselves and were welcomed to the meeting by Glen.

Treasurer’s Report- Carolyn Pickard gave a treasurer’s report since Treasurer Mary Smith was absent.  Details can be obtained at any meeting. 

Treasurer  Announcement- Mary Smith has announced she will be stepping down from her position as EMHS Treasurer.  Barb Hunter has offered to take over as EMHS Treasurer.  This change will be effective as of the end of the year.  

Hosta Stones- an update of Hosta Stone inventory was given by Cathy Hodgson.  Cathy also asked for names of Michigan hybridizer’s to consider for the 2013 stone. 

Opening EMHS Aug Meeting- Some SVHS Members joined us.  They were invited to join us since they are not having an Aug. meeting.

Gift of Seeds- Melva Bond gave seed pods of Dracunculus vulgaris to anybody that wanted them.  Members were instructed on how to clean the seeds and plant them. 

Raffle- proceeds for club activities.

Door Prize Drawing- thank you to donors by Glen, drawing ensued.

Michigan Nursery – Steve Balabon spoke about two nurseries in NW Michigan.  Carolyn Pickard is to obtain info for a possible bus trip in 2013 to these nurseries. 

Next Meeting- is on September 13th, 2012 at the Hodgson’s in Lapeer, MI at 5:30 PM.  This meeting is the Annual Plant Exchange.  Rules of the exchange were reviewed. 

Adjournment- at 7:45 PM

Wednesday, August 29, 2012

September 2012 Newsletter


Note from the President- We got teased by Mother Nature with a couple of rain showers and now the old girl has dried up again.  While at work (in the city of Flint) this past weekend it was raining a lot, but when I got home I found less than 1/10th of an inch in the rain gauge.  I have given up trying to keep a watering schedule that will sustain the plants in a presentable manner.  As long as the plants don’t die, I am satisfied. 
Our next meeting is September 13th, 2012.  This is our annual plant exchange.  As always we ask you to not bring invasive plants to the meeting as they will not be permitted into the exchange.    We may change the way the plant exchange is done this year, but you can rest assured that you will go home with a few plants to add to your garden.  This meeting is always a blast and everybody leaves with a new plant (sometimes many plants) to use in their own yard.  There are a couple of things to remember about this meeting; bring something to exchange, each membership (single, couple, or family) gets only one name in the drawing canister, look things over as the drawing is being held as we have to go fast to get finished before dark, don’t bring invasive species to trade, don’t bring any plants with known disease or insect infestation, the exchange is not limited to plants, be prepared to have fun, the drawing starts promptly at 6:30 and goes fast, the drawing will be extremely high speed so be ready to jump up and pick out a plant as this drawing goes FAST!
As announced at the last meeting, Barb Hunter has offered to become our next Treasurer.  We want to welcome Barb.  Mary Smith has done a fantastic job as Treasurer and we cannot thank her enough for keeping the books for the club.  Mary is planning on finishing out the year with the job as Treasurer so any money paid will be to her until the official change has been made. 
Thank you Barb Hunter for hosting our August meeting and for having the garage and tents to keep us dry during the rain showers.  Barb’s gardens are always a delight to walk through and the added benefit of choosing which plants you want for your own garden as you walk is delightful.  Barb has a good selection of plants at good prices so I hope many of you took advantage of her sales area. 
I hope to see you at the meeting on September 13th and don’t forget to bring a plant for the exchange, a dish to pass for the pot-luck, a chair to sit in, and be ready to have a good time.
Glen

Next Meeting- Our next meeting will be held on September 13th at 5:30 PM at the home of Mick and Cathy Hodgson, 1360 Roods Lake Road, Lapeer, MI 48446, phone 810-664-8985, email cehodgso@hotmail.com .  This is the EMHS Annual Plant Exchange.  Everybody brings at least one plant (or any number of plants), all plants are grouped in one area, each paid membership present gets their name placed in a drawing canister, then when your name is drawn you go pick out any plant from the ones left in the area.  This meeting is always a lot of fun and very fast paced.  Last year every membership present left with at least three plants.  We do ask that you put a name label in each plant you bring.   Invasive plants will not be permitted into the exchange.  Examples of common invasive garden plants are Convallaria (Lily-of-the-Valley), Houttuynia (Chameleon Plant), Matteuccia struthiopteris (Ostrich Fern), and Aegopodium (Snow-on-the-Mountain or Bishop’s Weed).  The aforementioned list is not complete by any means, but is given to let you know what is meant by invasive.  Suggestions of plants to bring are Hosta, companion plants, ornamental trees/shrubs, or garden related items such as ornaments, watering wands, etc.  Touring the gardens will start at 5:30, Refreshments at 6:00, and we will start the drawing promptly at 6:30 PM so we can be finished before dusk. 
We will also have a drawing for a special item.  Tickets will be available at the meeting and the winner will take the item home.    If you would like to donate a special plant or item for this drawing it will help generate funds for future speaker’s fees.
Driving Directions- Take M-24 to Daley Road (this is the first road north of our regular meeting place of Mayfield Twp. Hall).  Turn East on Daley and drive 1.5 miles to Roods Lake Road.  Turn right (South) and drive 1.3 miles to the house on the left.  Please park in the second driveway area where you see the EMHS Meeting sign and walk over to the house. 

2012 Calendar of Events:
September 13th at the Hodgson’s in Lapeer.  Annual Plant Exchange
October 11th at Mayfield Twp. Hall, Rick Adams speaker
November- No meeting scheduled
December 6th at Mayfield Twp. Hall, Annual Christmas Party

Hosta Stones- The 2012 Hosta Stones featuring Ron Livingston’s 2008 introduction H. “Alakazaam” are for sale.  The regular member cost is $30.00 for Natural and $5.00 more for colored.  Non-member price is $35.00 for Natural and colors $5.00 more.  Call Cathy Hodgson at 810-664-8985 to place your order. 
            Cathy is also asking for suggestions for Michigan hybridizer’s for the 2013 stone.  Please direct any suggestions to Cathy.  

Club Members selling Hosta or related products;
Please call or email to set an appointment before visiting
Hanner, Mark/Becky- Pottery.  810-631-4292, mhanner@aol.com
Hunter, Barb- Hosta, Daylilies, Pond supplies. 810-664-7531, baha@chartermi.net
Lisik, Phil/Ginger-Hosta, Daylilies, other plants.  989-642-5772, lisik46@yahoo.com
Pickard, Carolyn- Daylilies, Hosta.   989-871-2873, robfamily5@yahoo.com
Canning, Rob- Lakeside Hostas.  810-714-1885, robslakesidehostas@gmail.com
Salk, Pat/Bill Kapustka, Daylilies.  810-678-3519, daylilyabode@msn.com
Smith, Stan/Mary Lou, Concrete leaves, toad houses.  989-845-3455 smlsmith@chartermi.net

Websites of Interest:
American Hosta Society- http://www.americanhostasociety.org/
American Hosta Society Convention Website- http://www.hosta2012.com/
AHS Hosta Library Website- http://www.hostalibrary.org/
Michigan Hosta Society Website- http://www.hostahappenings.com/
Eastern Michigan Hosta Society blog-
http://easternmichiganhostasociety.blogspot.com/
Hosta College Website- http://ihostohio.com/portal/glhc/

Hosta Society Membership info-
American Hosta Society
,  $30 individual, $57/2 years, $34 family, $62/2 years
Send dues to: Sandie Markland, AHS Membership Secretary, Post Office Box 7539, Kill Devil Hills, NC 27948
Michigan Hosta Society,
Dues is $15 per household for up to two people, good for 2 years. Make checks payable to: The Michigan Hosta Society and send to; Michigan Hosta Society, 2509 Wembly Lane, Troy, MI 48084-1280
Eastern Michigan Hosta Society, Dues $5 per year per household, Make check payable to EMHS and mail to: Mary Smith, EMHS Treasurer, 3431 Swaffer Rd, Millington, MI 48746

Thursday, August 9, 2012

Annual Plant Exchange

The Next EMHS Meeting is the Annual Plant Exchange. 
Choose the plant/plants you plan to bring to the exchange with some thought.  No plants such as Lily-of-the-Valley, Bishop's Weed, Chameleon Plant, or any other type of invasive plant will be permitted to be in the exchange.  An easy way to know if a plant is invasive is; if you have more of it than you know what to do with........it is probably invasive.  If the plant you have brought is perceived as invasive we will ask you to remove it from the exchange.

Good choices for the exchange are; newer varieties of Hosta, Ferns, Epimedium, Helleborus, woodland ephemerals, and other companion plants.

This meeting is a lot of fun, but takes time.  Please be prepared for a faster than normal paced meeting.


July 12, 2012 Meeting Minutes


The Meeting was held at Patrick and Patricia Major’s in Goodrich, MI on July 12th, 2012. 

Networking and viewing the Major’s gardens began at 6:00 PM. 

Refreshments were served at 6:30 PM. 

Business Meeting was called to order at 7:20 PM by President Glen Pace.  Visitors and new Members introduced themselves and were welcomed to the meeting by Glen.

Treasurer’s Report- Mary Smith gave a treasurer’s report.  Details can be obtained at any meeting. 

Hosta Stones- an update of Hosta Stone inventory was given by Cathy Hodgson.  Cathy also asked for names of Michigan hybridizer’s to consider for the 2013 stone. 

Opening EMHS Aug Meeting- the Saginaw club may be joining us, as they do not have a volunteer host for their meeting in August.

Open House- Pam Walmsley told us about R&G Landscaping open house, July 21st & 22nd, 9-4

Raffle- Proceeds for EMHS Club activities.  

Door Prize Drawing- thank you to donors by Glen, drawing ensued.

Blog- Glen asked that members please email or call him with information for the blog or newsletter.  Any local garden tours or Hosta related topics can be posted to the blog for informational purposes. 

Next Meeting- is on August 9th, 2012 at Barb Hunter’s in Lapeer, MI at 6:00 PM. 

Garden Tour- all present were invited to tour Rick Adams Daylily Farm on way home from meeting.  Rick had donated H. “Panic in Detroit” for our raffle. 

Adjournment- at 7:45 PM

Thursday, July 26, 2012

August 2012 Newsletter


Note from the President- Last night was the first full inch of rain this season.  This is far too late in the season to make any improvement in the looks of the gardens, but it is a big benefit to the plants even if they have gone dormant for the year.  This is the time of year when the Trilliums are putting on new root growth in preparation for next year’s blooming season, so for them this particular storm was of great significance.  This storm will also facilitate the second seasonal growth for the Japanese Maples and our beloved Hostas.  It is this second flush of growth that makes the late season garden refreshed with new color. 
                A big thank you goes out to Patricia and Patrick Major for hosting the last meeting.  For those that missed the last meeting………you missed a gorgeous setting.  After reaching the driveway you drove ½ mile back into the woods to reach the clearing for the house which is situated on 15 acres on Shinanguag Lake.  Patrick says that Shinanguag is Genesee County’s best kept secret and he is right.  I had no idea that there was any lake around here that was so beautiful and clean.  The terraced gardens leading down to the lake contain many newer varieties of Hosta some of which Patricia purchased from fundraising sales of EMHS.  If you walk the shoreline of the lake you find where the two natural springs from the Major’s property feed into the lake.  The unique art work placed at the lake shore is complimentary to the waterfront as well as intriguing to look at.  At the opposite side of the property were pathways leading into the woods.  Following these paths gave visitors a glimpse into the wonders of “The Moss Lady” and “The Caretaker” which are moss creatures created by the Majors’.  The pathways were lined with Hosta and a multitude of companion plants including many Arisaema triphyllum that were huge and had enormous seeds cones on them.  In short, this is one of the most unique gardens I have seen in a long time and the Majors’ are to be commended on their beautiful home/gardens as well as their hospitality. 
                I have now finished updating the 2012 EMHS Directory of Members.  If you would like a printed copy of the updated Directory, please call me (989-244-4029) so I can have a copy at the meeting for you.  I will email the Directory out to the general membership after the August meeting to make sure we have any new memberships listed. 
                As was discussed at our last meeting, the Saginaw Valley Hosta Society has been invited to join us for our August Meeting.  We look forward to sharing our passion for Hosta with the SVHS members.
                Please remember to bring your chair and a dish to pass to the August  9th meeting.  Parking for the meeting will be at the bank on the corner.  You can easily walk to Barb’s from the bank parking lot.   
Sincerely,
Glen
Next Meeting- Our next meeting is on August 9th, 6:00 PM at Barb Hunter’s house, 316 Davis Lake Road, Lapeer, MI 48446. Phone 810-664-7531.  This is a regular summertime member garden tour meeting.  We will tour the gardens from 6:00-6:30 PM, serve refreshments/eat from 6:30-7:15, then have the business portion of the meeting from 7:15-8:00PM.
            Please remember to bring a dish to pass for the potluck and don’t forget your chair.  Since we have gotten some rain you may also want to bring some insect repellent. 
Driving Directions- one mile further south on M-24 than the Mayfield Twp. Hall turn off.
           
(from I-69/M-24) – Drive 3 miles north on M-24 to Davis Lake Road, turn left (West) to 4th house on right.  Please park at the bank on the corner of M-24 and Davis Lake Road and walk to Barb’s. 

2012 Calendar of Events:
August 9th- at Barb Hunter’s in Lapeer.  Member Garden Tour
September 13th at the Hodgson’s in Lapeer.  Annual Plant Exchange
October 11th at Mayfield Twp. Hall, Rick Adams speaker
November- No meeting scheduled
December 6th at Mayfield Twp. Hall, Annual Christmas Party

Hosta Stones- The 2012 Hosta Stones featuring Ron Livingston’s 2008 introduction H. “Alakazaam” are for sale.  The regular member cost is $30.00 for Natural and $5.00 more for colored.  Non-member price is $35.00 for Natural and colors $5.00 more.  Call Cathy Hodgson at 810-664-8985 to place your order. 
            Cathy is also asking for suggestions for Michigan hybridizer’s for the 2013 stone.  Please direct any suggestions to Cathy.
 
Annual Plant Exchange- is the Sept 13th meeting.  Plan what you want to bring to the exchange.  No Bishops weed, Houttuynia, Lily-of-the-Valley, etc.   We will discuss this further at the August Meeting. 

Club Members selling Hosta or related products;
Please call or email to set an appointment before visiting
Hanner, Mark/Becky- Pottery.  810-631-4292, mhanner@aol.com
Hunter, Barb- Hosta, Daylilies, Pond supplies. 810-664-7531, baha@chartermi.net
Lisik, Phil/Ginger-Hosta, Daylilies, other plants.  989-642-5772, lisik46@yahoo.com
Pickard, Carolyn- Daylilies, Hosta.   989-871-2875, robfamily5@yahoo.com
Canning, Rob- Lakeside Hostas.  810-714-1885, robslakesidehostas@gmail.com
Salk, Pat/Bill Kapustka, Daylilies.  810-678-3519, daylilyabode@msn.com
Smith, Stan/Mary Lou, Concrete leaves, toad houses.  989-845-3455 smlsmith@chartermi.net

Websites of Interest:
American Hosta Society- http://www.americanhostasociety.org/
American Hosta Society Convention Website- http://www.hosta2012.com/
AHS Hosta Library Website- http://www.hostalibrary.org/
Michigan Hosta Society Website- http://www.hostahappenings.com/
Eastern Michigan Hosta Society blog-
http://easternmichiganhostasociety.blogspot.com/
Hosta College Website- http://ihostohio.com/portal/glhc/

Hosta Society Membership info-
American Hosta Society
,  $30 individual, $57/2 years, $34 family, $62/2 years
Send dues to: Sandie Markland, AHS Membership Secretary, Post Office Box 7539, Kill Devil Hills, NC 27948
Michigan Hosta Society,
Dues is $15 per household for up to two people, good for 2 years. Make checks payable to: The Michigan Hosta Society and send to; Michigan Hosta Society, 2509 Wembly Lane, Troy, MI 48084-1280
Eastern Michigan Hosta Society, Dues $5 per year per household, Make check payable to EMHS and mail to: Mary Smith, EMHS Treasurer, 3431 Swaffer Rd, Millington, MI 48746

If you have information to be added to the EMHS Newsletter, please email it to Glen at pacegardens@charter.net.  Please email the info at least two weeks before the next scheduled meeting to have it included in the newsletter.  Information can be added to the EMHS blog at any time but only by the blogmaster, email Glen or reply to the blog for blog additions. 

EMHS Board of Officers:
President Glen Pace
pacegardens@charter.net 989-244-4029
Vice-President Carolyn Pickard
robfamily5@yahoo.com 989-871-2873
Treasurer Mary Smith
brooktrout@tds.net 989-871-9833
Secretary Marlene Daniels
gardenfairy50@aol.com 810-664-8317
Past President Mark Hanner
mhanner@aol.com 810-631-4292
Fund-Raising Mick and Cathy Hodgson
cehodgso@hotmail.com 810-664-8985