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June, 2008

“Rosemary is for remembrance” and as I look back over the past two years of my Presidency, I am reminded of all the wonderful events we shared, the many accomplishments we achieved; but most of all, the friendships we have enjoyed. Although another garden club season has come to an end, we can look forward to more exciting possibilities next year with a new Executive Board.

How can I begin to describe our fantastic Installation Luncheon? The floral arrangements were simply amazing and even more meaningful because every stem came from a member’s garden. My heartfelt thanks to Paddee Neff and Betty Jackson who spent hours and hours designing not only the table decorations but also the exquisite bouquets for the incoming officers. Such loving care went into each detail and the result was nothing short of spectacular – it literally took my breath away. Paddee is a true creative genius and we are grateful to have her expertise as a floral designer extraordinaire. She envisioned a setting that would be “over the top” and I believe she exceeded her expectations. A big “thank you” also to Bobbie Dunne, Kay Kurtz, Carol Rodgerson, Sharon Smith and Jane Strait, in addition to Paddee and Betty, who provided buckets and buckets of gorgeous flowers from their gardens – Paddee’s garage looked like a florist’s shop. We had the longest line ever to purchase raffle tickets because these arrangements were so highly prized.

Betty Jackson truly went beyond the call of duty. In addition to assisting Paddee with table decorations, she also officiated as our Installing Officer. Betty’s presentation was one of grace and elegance, two hallmarks of her personality that I admire most. Thank you, Betty, for performing a lovely and memorable installation ceremony.

With enormous help from my husband, Ralph, I was able to compile photographs of the last two years and create a special video presentation, a copy of which was presented to each Board Member and Chairman as my “thank you” for their service.

It was my pleasure to present the “Golden Glove” Award this month to Jean Rogers and Lee Maher, two members of long standing who have contributed a great deal over the years. They are always there when you need them whether it is rose pruning, chairing a Committee, providing hospitality, raffle items or garden tours, these exceptional ladies quietly go about serving the club in so many ways and we appreciate that dedication.

Jan Macdonald and Carleene Hyde, National Garden Week Co-Chairmen, organized an outstanding presentation throughout the community the first week in June to promote an interest in gardening and garden clubs. Our appreciation to Harriet Behrens, Betty Hill, Paddee Neff, Sharon Smith , Jane Strait and Theresa Weber for providing floral arrangements at various centers in Mission Viejo and Rancho Santa Margarita. Thank you ladies for a very successful National Garden Week campaign. You can view these beautiful designs on our website.

Once again, I would like to extend my gratitude to the extraordinary team I have been fortunate to serve with for the past two years. I could not have succeeded without the assistance of Amy Inoue, Betty Jackson, Judy Jensen, Nancy Lee Loesch, Darla Miller and Theresa Weber. Thank you ladies for your commitment to our Club.

All in all, I believe our luncheon was an incredible finale to our garden club season and hope you enjoyed the celebration as much as I did. I wish to express my appreciation for your thoughtful gift – I will always remember you, and this day, every time I see the beautiful rose stepping stones in my garden. I thank you for your encouragement and support and know you will extend the same to Amy Inoue and her new Board, Carleene Hyde, Jane Strait, Carole Metz and Teress Weber.

Enjoy summer in your garden until we meet again in September.

Sharon Smith , President

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