2019 President’s Summary
Each year we ask our members to provide input on the topics and/or speakers they would like for the coming year’s programs. Under the able coordination of our Program Chair, Jen Cline, an engaging and informative lineup of speakers was secured including: Gardening in Small Spaces; Garden Smarts: Beating the Aches and Pains; incorporating native plants into our gardens; cold-hardy lavender varieties; and the National Wildlife Federation’s “Garden for Wildlife” certification program available to homeowners.
The talk of 2019 was the overwhelming success of our annual Quilts in the Garden Tour. More than 875 tickets were sold, far exceeding our most optimistic projections. While there are many factors that contributed to this success, a few proved pivotal:
* Success of convenient on-line ticket sales managed by our Webmaster
* Exceptional quality marketing materials and outreach effort
* Unique and inspiring lineup of homes / gardens (Rognliens, Clines, Apregans & Seed2Table Garden)
* Our positive and growing reputation as a must-see event during Quilt Festival week
Adding to the fun and interest this year, we invited some local artisans to showcase and offer their art for sale within the gardens. The metal garden art and succulent arrangements proved very popular with our guests. A raffle was held for a unique garden-themed quilt that was made and donated by Leotie Richards of Sisters. Additionally, art quilts based upon the book “Temperance Creek” by Oregon author Pamela Royes were displayed at one home along with the opportunity to purchase the book provided by Paulina Springs Book Store. At the historic Black Diamond Ranch, the Sisters Historical Society set up a display, including pioneer quilts that added a nice opportunity for that non-profit group to introduce themselves to the wider community.
While the number of visitors at this year’s Tour generated some stressful logistical moments for our fantastic volunteer team, everyone stepped up to the challenges, even our homeowners! It was truly a complete team effort. A special thanks are in order for our Tour Co-coordinators, Donna Lipscomb and Lolly Tweed, and their Tour Advisory Committee. Under their guidance, direction and attention to detail, we were able to navigate our way to a record setting event.
Our net revenue, after Tour expenses, was $13,000. Grants / donations awarded this year include:
* Seed to Table $2,500 Winterization upgrade to main greenhouse
$3,500 Matching Grant Challenge
* Sisters Food Bank $1,500 Holiday Season Food Drive
Our annual holiday brunch was held in a beautifully festive setting at Brand 44 Restaurant in Aspen Lakes, coordinated by Sandy Doman, Pat Drake and Donna Moss. Our members generously contributed to the annual Fire District / Kiwanis Toy Drive as well donations to Sisters FAN (Family Access Network).