Minutes of the April 2, 2023 meeting of the Michiana Bonsai Study

Present:      Larry Benjamin, Dave Bohn, Lisa Chilik, Michael Ciesiolka, Mary Conner, Mike Cope, John DeMaegd,

                       Mary Hesser, Bruce Kennedy, Jimmie Lyon, Kevin Mann, Terry Mersich and Wanda Walker

Location:    Home of Mike Cope, Bremen, IN

Program:

              Before the meeting began those present were given a look at Mike's fine trees as well as his soon-to-be-completed

bonsai display area, complete with an automated watering system.

             The meeting began with a business meeting. Larry reported the current balance in our account - the highest ever at

this point in the calendar year. Next, Larry distributed a proposed revision to our club charter which John DeMaegd and

Mary Hesser had put together with Larry previously and which had been accepted by a vote of members at the March

meeting. It was pointed out that, in order to be instituted, it must pass again at this meeting. It was moved and seconded

that we adopt the revised version of the club charter. The motion passed. Larry announced that anyone interested could

review it again on our club website.

     Larry brought up another topic for discussion. At last year's Master Gardeners' Annual Garden Tour we had placed

an ad in their tour booklet. Larry received a notice of the opportunity to include one this year as well. After a little

discussion, it moved and seconded that we place a 1/3 page ($45) ad in the 2023 tour booklet. The motion passed.

      It was then pointed out that the month of May would offer several bonsai opportunities. In addition to the May 7

meeting at Larry's house, the Michigan All-State show will be held on May 13 & 14 at Meijer Gardens in Grand Rapids. And, on

May 20 the Ft. Wayne Spring Bonsai Show will be held at the Ft. Wayne Botanical Conservatory, 1100 S. Calhoun St., Ft. Wayne.

    Next, work began on several trees brought to the meeting. Club soil was available and trees were repotted and plans

were made for future development. And, Mike had a nice selection of snacks which we enjoyed.

    Finally, Mike took us on a tour ofhis newly purchased historic home. The former residence of Indiana Bowen,

it is enhanced by beautiful woodwork, unique features and chandeliers. Plus, Mike and his wife have added a few features

 of their own. This provided us with a special treat for this meeting on a lovely spring day.