Debra Lee Baldwin is 2017 Horticulturist of the Year Honoree
This month, we honor Debra Lee Baldwin as 2017 Horticulturist of the Year. You likely have one or more of Debra’s books on succulents, have attended one of her lectures, or have read many of the articles she’s authored in Garden Design, Sunset, Better Home & Gardens, and other local press. Not only is Debra well known locally, but she also has a large national and international following. Her books on succulents have made a huge impact on the way many people garden. With her help, succulent gardens, pots, and plants have gained a place in almost every San Diego landscape. On June 12th, we will honor Debra at our annual “Night at the Fair” meeting held in the display gardens at the San Diego County Fair in Del Mar. Parking is free for everyone and admission is free for SDHS members. So be sure to save the date.
Coming Soon: New Online Let’s Talk Plants
Let’s Talk Plants will soon be moving to an online version that will allow you to read news articles anywhere, at any time, and on any device. The new version will allow you to quickly find and read both current and previous articles and easily share them with friends. No login or pdf downloading required. More details about this exciting new project will be available in our July newsletter.
Is SDHS on the verge of a leadership crisis?
August is just around the corner and we have several key board members whose terms will expire. Most notably, is president! We are also looking for a new membership chair to replace Cindy Benoit, a volunteer chair to replace Patty Berg, and a coordinator for next year’s garden tour. The garden tour may also be co-chaired if you know of someone you would like to work with. A lot of effort has been made over the last several years to make the board work easier and more flexible, and accommodate volunteers’ schedules. The good news is that by volunteering now, you will have several months to learn about the position and be ready to start in August. Three one-year member-at-large positions will also be opening up. At-large positions are an opportunity to learn more about the organization and potentially move into a three-year position.
I encourage you to take a leap and volunteer to help lead this dynamic organization. Most of the positions take just a few hours per month and most of the activities can be done from home, yet the work our chairs do is vital to SDHS’s day-to-day operations. Or maybe you have someone in mind that just needs a little nudge and reassurance that they can do it. It is a wonderful opportunity to play a major role in the San Diego horticultural community. The most important qualification is a passion for our mission and a desire to work with like-minded people eager to move our organization forward. You do not need to be a plant expert, although some knowledge doesn’t hurt. Please send your questions or contact me ASAP with your intention to serve at: sdhspresident@gmail.com.