President’s Message One of the things that I love most about serving The two other positions that are open are the on the HSA Board of Directors is the opportunity membership delegate positions for the Central it gives me to meet members from all around the and Northeast Districts. Membership delegates TABLE OF CONTENTS country. We all share the same passion about herbs represent their district on the board and help to and we are all working together to advance The facilitate communication throughout the district. It is President’s Message ...... 1 Society. I admit that it is a big commitment to serve important that the board hears about your concerns Headquarters Update ...... 2 on the board but it is an opportunity to learn and to and issues and what you need and want from national. grow as an individual and to make lifetime friends If you are interested or know someone who would New Found Perspective ...... 3 you would never have known otherwise. make a good delegate, please contact Rae. HSA Awards ...... 4 I am bringing up serving on the board because Now, if you would like to be more involved on Gentle Concoctions ...... 6 we need your help. We have three openings on the the national level but are not ready to join the board, board to fill for next year. Lin Lange is stepping consider volunteering on a national committee. You Love The Herbarist?...... 8 down as our treasurer on July 1. She had retired after will find the committee lists and current members Thanks, Thanks & More Thanks.... 9 serving her two terms as treasurer, and then stepped under the “Member-Only Documents” in the back in when the treasurer position became vacant Member Only section of the website. EdCon Scholarship...... 9 again midterm. As much as we would love her to As you can see it Time to Plant Seeds ...... 10 continue, she is ready to move on to new adventures takes a lot of member Money Musings...... 10 and challenges. I agree that anyone following after power to run a national Lin has big shoes to fill, but Lin has promised to organization. The more Upcoming Webinars...... 11 be available to coach you until you get your feet on our members share New Membership Drive...... 12 the ground. If you have a financial background in their talents and their accounting, please consider joining the team. Lin time, the stronger the Silent Auction Items Needed...... 12 would be happy to answer any of your questions organization becomes. In Memoriam...... 13 ([email protected]). Or if you know See you in Madison! Event Calendar...... 14 someone who has the skill set to be treasurer, please send your suggestions to our Nominations Chair, Rae McKimm ([email protected]).
1 HSA Logo Seal
Hello HSA.
HSAIt’s Logo Reversed Me, Again HSA Board of Directors 2018–19 (used on colored background) HSA LogoThrough Horizontal June 30, 2019 Update from HSA Headquarters HSA Logo Stacked Rie Sluder President By Gretchen Faro, Interim Director of Operations Amy Schiavone Vice President Maryann Readal Secretary • Take the time to evaluate your Lin Lange Treasurer/Finance programs. Whom do they serve? Do they Pat Greathead Central District reflect the organization’s unique value Membership Delegate proposition? Do they reflect the needs of Bonnie Great Lakes District your constituencies? Porterfield Membership Delegate • Be creative and be bold. When you Kim Labash Mid-Atlantic District Membership Delegate understand your environment and what Open Northeast District your current and future constituencies Membership Delegate want of you, do your best to make that William Varney South Central District happen with the resources you have. That MembershipHSA Logo Horiz Delegate Reversed (used on colored background) is the path to relevance and sustainability. Julie Walsh Southeast District So what have I been doing since I Membership Delegate HSA Logo Stacked Reversed (used on colored background) got back? Mostly helping HSA’s systems Joan Keif West District deliver the management information Membership Delegate the business needs. And that means Karen O’Brien Botany & Horticulture Chair meticulously verifying member and Open Development Chair donor records. Meticulously verifying Jen Munson Education Chair how business activity is booked in our Gloria Hunter Membership Chair Well those fourteen years flew by. I am financial system. Meticulously organizing Rae McKimm Past President delighted to be back with The Herb Society, the documentation for both. That’s a lot Susan Belsinger Honorary President this time in an interim role to help with of meticulous-ness. It may not be the your leadership transition. Any change most exciting aspect of working in the in staff can be challenging, but it can also nonprofit sector but has to be right, plain, STAFF create opportunities to bring in some new and simple. Gretchen Faro Interim Director of skills and perspectives. I like to think that I So what’s next? I am really looking Operations did an OK job as HSA’s executive director forward to participating in helping The Karen Kennedy Educator during my first stint, but I have learned a Society map its future: understand the Holly Gielink Membership/ great deal more about running a nonprofit current environment, embrace what’s Administrative Assistant business in these intervening years. possible, and deliver the best programs we Whether it was City Year, Big Brothers Big can that will delight our current members The Herb Society of America Sisters, or the Cleveland Public Library, and attract new ones. these few ideas are universal: So why did I come back? Because of the ph: 440-256-0514 | www.herbsociety.org • Take the time to get your systems right. members. In the past fourteen years I had 9019 Kirtland Chardon Rd., Kirtland, OH 44094 Make sure your database, your financial the good fortune to run some fairly large systems, and your operational procedures organizations and raised a ton of money on It is the policy of The Herb Society of talk to each other and are implemented their behalf. But I never enjoyed myself as America not to advise or recommend in ways that help you understand your much as I did when I was knocking around herbs for medicinal or health use. This business, demonstrate your impact, make the country, meeting the members, and information is intended for educational informed decisions, and support excellent learning from all of you. I have become stewardship. quite the gardener (go ahead Amy and Lin purposes only and should not be • Take the time to understand your – tell them how pretty my gardens are!). considered as a recommendation or an market/environment. What circumstances And while I have the smallest fraction of endorsement of any particular medical or trends are influencing the people who knowledge compared to the rest of you, or health treatment. are – or may potentially be – interested in I have enormous enthusiasm that was our programs and services? inspired by you. 2 New Found Perspective By Susan Belsinger, HSA Honorary President
When I accepted the position of Honorary President of HSA enriching life experience which increases one’s awareness of the way from 2018 to 2020, I did so hoping that I could somehow make a things work from business and finances to plants and people, not to difference in helping our organization grow and move forward into mention a powerful gathering and meeting of minds, exchange of the future. Among the guidelines for the Honorary President are: ideas, inspiration, and accomplishment. to attend conferences and give a presentation, write an article for President Rie Sluder calmly and efficiently leads the board the newsletter and The Herbarist, promote HSA, and if desired, the through the meetings and keeps things on course with the help position allows one to attend board meetings (though one cannot of Past-President Rae McKimm, who has previous experience vote). I already do the aforementioned, although I had never and is knowledgeable about the way things work, as well as Vice attended an HSA board meeting. President Amy Schiavone. Interim Director of Operations Gretchen Sure, at conference, we see the board at the Annual Meeting of Faro and HQ Educator Karen Kennedy are really doing good work Members and at meals. Most of us know they come a day or two early at headquarters—they are helping to move us forward--and their and stay a day or two later and work during the conference. However, sagacity is invaluable. Our Secretary, Maryann Readal, is guiding us I never really knew what that entailed. Unless a member has served through many aspects of social media. Jen Munson, Board Education on the board, or attended a board meeting, I don’t think most of us Chair, is taking care of the many details of member education, have a clue as to what goes on behind the scenes. Surely, I did not. grants, and the upcoming conference. Last though not least, Linda I have been on the board of other organizations—none of them Lange is an incredible treasurer (actually she is a numbers wizard) can compare to the intricacies of HSA. Being on the Strategic and I am not sure how we can replace her, although she is ready to Planning Committee has given me some insight as to how the move on from this job. Do you know that there are some members process works. All of this to say, I have been enlightened as to how who have been on the board for more than eight to ten years?! hard the board works for us and to their dedication to The Herb Meanwhile, I will continue to attend board meetings in order Society of America. As Honorary President, who is a working to grow my knowledge of the workings of The Society. While I do member of the group, I feel that as your representative, I would like not vote, I can listen, observe, learn, and take notes—and put in my to enable you, the membership, to realize the time and energy that occasional two cents. I am an HSA cheerleader as we all should be. the board gives to our herbal organization. I like to think of myself as a fairly aware individual. I must admit What can you as a member do to help? that after the beginning of the last board meeting, after two hours • Get involved! Volunteer! Do something! going over the Board Financial Facilitations, we took a break and I • Attend unit, district, and national meetings. began walking around the room exclaiming out loud. I was expressing • Spread the herbal word and recruit new members. my incredulity at the complexities of the treasurer’s report, I am not a • Write an article for the newsletter, blog (sign up to receive the numbers person and my mind was boggled. The meeting resumed for HSA blog—blog master Paris Wolfe is writing and enlisting writers about another hour—this was just the facilitation to understand the for some great blogs!) or submit a proposal for an article in The financials (sort of a pre-board meeting for the board meeting). The Herbarist. following day was the six-hour board meeting. • Attend the webinars (these have been high-quality informative The board meeting covers everything from accepting the programs that you can watch/listen from home for free!). Offer to treasurer’s report, the last meeting’s minutes, headquarters do a webinar in your area of interest or expertise. Listen to past update including the implementation of the data program called webinars at any time. Bloomerang, the upcoming Educational Conference, committee • Join a committee, do research on a Notable NativeTM, Promising reports from Membership, Strategic Planning, grants, to publications Plant, Herb of the Month, or IHA/HSA Herb of the YearTM. like the Newsletter, Herbal Bytes, and The Herbarist, the website, • Work in a garden, work with our Plant Collections. webinars, blog, and other social media, to the many topics under the • Save seeds for our Seed Exchange. umbrella of Botany and Horticulture, and things we probably would • Submit nominations for next year’s awards (ASAP). never think about like an Emergency Response Policy, and much • Support HSA financially; sponsor a speaker or a Herbarist more. Each District Membership Delegate also reports on what is article. going on and events coming up in their district. Oh my gosh and • Fill one of the slots that need filling on the board. We are in need golly; really my head was reeling! of a treasurer and district delegates for the Central and Northeast I salute each of our board members, many of whom are Districts. Next year we will be searching for Vice President, committee chairs and also serve on other committees, and those Secretary, Education Chair, and Botany and Horticulture Chair, and at headquarters who are doing amazing work. Being on the board District Membership Delegates for the Mid-Atlantic, Southeast, and is time-consuming, challenging (sometimes frustrating), and West Districts. does require dedication and effort. However, it is a rewarding and • Expand your herbal horizons! 3 HSA Awards
By Rae McKimm, Past President, Nominating and Awards Chair
Helen de Conway Little Medal of Honor (1966) The Helen de Conway Little Medal of Honor is the highest award given by The Society. This award recognizes and bestows praise on an individual who has given outstanding service, dedication, and contributions to The Herb Society of America or to the world of horticulture in general. To paraphrase, this award is given to someone for “real service” to The Herb Society of America or for “outstanding ability” in the field of herbs. and her first audience was her son’s fourth grade class in Jo Sellers certainly is qualified for this award as she has Virginia. This experience encouraged Jo to create a Colonial been spreading the word about the use and delight of herbs for Dame costume and begin offering her program to local libraries the past 25 years. Perhaps we should begin by recollecting some and garden clubs. Rumor has it that this was the inspiration for of Jo’s contributions and accomplishments. her latest program called “Historical Hysterical Herbs”. When most At the Potomac Unit’s spring herb festivals at the U.S. folks meet Jo National Arboretum (USNA), Jo was in charge of the children’s they are imme- activities. She taught several classes on herbs to children at diately enchanted various elementary schools for after school programs. As Jo had by her energy mentioned, “I was often given some challenging students who and enthusiasm. really enjoyed digging in the dirt – after all there are no bad Jo, a member grades in a garden.” While serving as Potomac Unit Chair Jo of the Potomac worked with Dr. Frederick Myers on the Fuchs Herbal Project for Unit since 1988, which she was recognized with a HSA Certificate of Appreciation served in nu- in 2003. merous positions Jo’s work at the US National Arboretum started over 20 years for the unit and ago with serving as a volunteer in the National Herb Garden, as for the national a tour guide, and in the Washington Youth Garden where she board. Jo repre- created an herbal discovery cart program. She has also been sented the Mid- active with the 4H organization in her area as an advisor for Atlantic District floriculture at their annual fair and teaching classes. and the South- In her spare time she volunteered at the annual Pennsylvania east District as Lavender Festival and shared her knowledge by demonstrating Membership Delegate. During that time she organized district how to make lavender wands. She served as the National Capital gatherings, social symposiums, and attended board meetings Area Garden Club State President and during her term created and committee meetings on the national Board of Directors. a lesson plan on seed germination and encouraged garden clubs She also served on the HSA Best of Herbarist committee and has and members to present this class at local schools and libraries. written articles for The Herbarist. Join me in congratulating Jo Sellers for receiving this Jo’s first educational program topic was on colonial herbs honorable award. 4 Madalene Hill Award for Excellence In Herbal she mentioned, “I benefited greatly from knowing Madalene. I Education (2018) spent as much time as possible with her in the McAshan Gardens at This award is to honor those who have a passion for promoting the Festival Hill. Many of the plants in the American Botanical Council’s knowledge, use, and delight of herbs through educational activities at gardens, such as the tamarind (Tamarindus indica, Fabaceae) and any level. The recipient must be living at the time of the nomination physic nut (Jatropha multifida, Euphorbiaceae) were gifts from the and can be either a professional or nonprofessional, but must show a McAshan Gardens. Before long, Madalene began inviting me to great zeal for sharing their passion for herbs with the public. speak at the Annual Herbal Forum held at the Festival Institute each This award is named in honor of the “Grand Dame of Herbs” March.” Gayle added, “My favorite herbalists are the ones who, no Madalene Hill who died in 2009 at the age of 95. Madalene Hill matter how long they have been studying, admit that there is always was an HSA Past President 1986-1988 as well as an internationally more to learn and that each plant and person should be treated recognized herbalist and author who ran a successful herb business according to their individual needs.” and restaurant, Hilltop Herb Farm, in Cleveland, Texas, with her For Engels, pursuing the role of educator came naturally. “I husband Jim. Madalene eventually joined the Round Top Festival have always loved learning,” she wrote to an associate in an e-mail. Institute in Round Top, Texas as curator of the Susan Clayton “As a child, as much as I loved vacation, I didn’t mind when it McAshan Herb Gardens. Through her guidance and leadership the ended so I could go back to school. From an early age, everything Institute expanded its gardens and outreach efforts and she oversaw that interested me, I pursued resolutely... I decided to major in special programs throughout the year to introduce visitors to the secondary education because of my love of learning and because culinary and medicinal uses of herbs. These programs included guided I loved the light in a person’s eyes when they learned something garden tours, herb-inspired luncheons, and workshops on growing that mattered to them.” At an early age, her mother’s peppermint herbs and designing and cooking with herbs. Madalene Hill received (Mentha × piperita, Lamiaceae) tea and her aunt’s gifts of chamomile numerous recognitions for her work. Seven herbs have been named in (Matricaria chamomilla syn. M. recutita, Asteraceae) inspired her honor. Now an award bears her name in honor to those who strive Engels’ love of botany and herbs. to follow in her footsteps of herbal education and outreach. Before working at the American Botanical Council, Engels owned a small landscaping business and worked at several plant Gayle Engels nurseries in Austin, Texas. In 1995, Engels joined the staff of ABC When Henry Flowers was pondering many different candidates remarking “I knew that [ABC] would provide me the opportunity to nominate for this award he said, “The one person that kept to grow and learn and teach. From May 8, 1995, forward I’ve been coming to the forefront was Gayle Engels, Member at Large, West able to play with plants and books and databases and share what I District. In my time as continue to learn with pretty much everyone with whom I come in director of the Herbal contact.” Forum at Round Top, ABC Founder and Executive Director Mark Blumenthal, a past Gayle had presented Honorary President of HSA, recently wrote: “My positive opinion wonderful lectures of [Engels] and her strong dedication to the world of herbs and about the medicinal medicinal plants has continued to grow to a point where I believe aspects of many it can go no further; that is, my regard and admiration for her life’s herbs and had also profound commitment to the world of herbs cannot be any stronger presented wonderful or better.” demonstrations and Engels helps manage the American Botanical Council workshops. Gayle is nonprofit’s educational efforts, garden development, and other always thorough, backs projects. Her work with the HerbDay Coalition and active her presentations with membership with the HSA allow Engels to share her love of good research, and botanicals and their beneficial qualities with students, herbalists, is able to make the and the general public. She is a valued speaker at the Herb subject understandable Harvest Fall Festival at the Ozark Folk Center in Arkansas. Her to a general audience deep knowledge of herbs and medicinal and aromatic plants of herb enthusiasts. has expanded with her duties as the project manager for ABC’s Madalene Hill knew HerbMedPro database. She also has co-authored more than 30 Gayle for many years herb profiles for ABC’s quarterly journal HerbalGram. and I know that she always thought highly of her.” Henry continues, Through these efforts, Engels has immersed herself in scientific “In making my nomination of Gayle for this award, I knew that and clinical research, traditional uses, sustainability issues, and Madalene would approve wholeheartedly.” distribution of hundreds of plants. Gayle had a personal relationship with Madalene Hill which Join me in congratulating Gayle Engels on receiving this makes the award all the more meaningful to her. In a conversation inaugural award. 5 Gentle Concoctions: A Soothing Herbal Patio Planter By William “Bill” Varney, South Central District Membership Delegate
With spring in the air, consider filling a patio planter with these very soothing and healing herbs: hyssop (Hyssopus officinalis), aloe (Aloe vera), and lemon verbena (Aloysia triphylla). Before the world invented high-tech diagnostic instruments and a dietary supplement industry, and long before we had to go to an alternative market to find “health food” and “natural skin care,” humans instinctively took care of their own health and well-being by stepping outdoors. Foraging, harvesting, and creating remedies from plants close to home, they began an oral tradition of kitchen medicinals and cosmetics that has been passed down from one generation to the next. Eventually these were formalized into “recipes” that became treasured family heirlooms.
HYSSOP The astringent and antiseptic biblical herb, hyssop is strong and versatile. Its dark green tops brewed as a “tea” will strengthen a weak stomach and relieve muscular rheumatism. Use externally as a wash for healing wounds or discolored skin bruis- ing. A leaf infusion is an expectorant and a “tea” of its dark blue flower spikes, dried, will remedy a weak chest or sore throat. In the tub, a bath bag of its flower tops creates a purifying, healing body cleanser. Cultivation Tip: A member of the mint family, and conse- quently fairly drought resistant, hyssop will thrive in full sun or light shade. It also attracts bees and repels white cabbage flies.
ALOE VERA A panacea for all ills, the healing properties of the ancient herb aloe have been used medicinally since prehistoric times. According to fables, Alexander the Great conquered the island of Socotra, in the Indian Ocean. At that time the island had a wealth of aloe vera plants and could provide Alexander’s entire army with stocks of this miraculous plant. People believed that the aloe vera made the army of Alexander indestructible. Alexander was severely wounded in a battle by an arrow and it is said that aloe cured him quickly. An ancient Egyptian remedy for digestive complaints, aloe was prescribed for stomach and breathing difficulties. Aloe contains a 6 pharaoh’s tomb of vitamins A, B1, B2, B12, C, E, calcium, chromium, copper, magnesium, manganese, zinc, sodium chloride, and potassium minerals; amino acids, enzymes, saponins, lignin, which can penetrate the skin, and anthraquinones which are antibiotic, antiviral, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory. Aloe’s clustered succulent leaf brings a hint of the tropics into the micro-climate of a patio and looks particularly showy placed in an urn. It will grow abundantly, ready-to-use for first-aid treatments, in a humble moveable clay pot or window box in summer or kitchen windowsills in winter. The jelly contained in the leaves offers instant relief for burns and bites. Aloe juice is said to be very helpful too in relieving colitis, kidney and liver ailments, as well as arthritis pain, and post-operative recovery. Cultivation Tip: Grow drought tolerant aloes in well-drained soil, in reasonably frost free environments, receiving sun or light shade during hot summer months.
ALOE Cleansing Cream 1 tbsp. beeswax 1 ½ tbsp. petroleum jelly 1 tbsp. sweet almond oil 1 tbsp. witch hazel 1 tbsp. aloe vera fresh jelly or juice 1/8 tsp. borax 22 drops of rose geranium essential
Melt beeswax and petroleum jelly together over low heat. Warm almond oil and gradually add to mixture, beating gently. Add witch hazel to aloe vera juice, warm, then stir in borax until dissolved. When tepid, slowly add to main mixture, beating continuously until creamed and cool. Add essential oil before decanting to a sterilized glass jar. Seal, label, and date. Store in a cool dark place. Good for 6-8 months. Makes 1/3 cup or 2.6 oz.
LEMON VERBENA With sunshine and late summer warmth, lemon verbena perfumes the air with sweet sizzle. Its potentially gangling-tall habit can be offset by planting it behind a rift of compact- clumping hyssop or against a wall. Alyosia triphylla is named after Marie Louise, Eighteenth Century Empress of France. Infused lemon verbena can be drunk as a mild sedative or stomach settling “tea,” or used as a skin-care cleanser for cuts and abrasions. Finely chopped fresh leaves are prized for perking up fish and chicken, adding to summer drinks and salads, and mint teas. Dried leaves are good for potpourris and herb pillows. For irresistible zest add leaves to lemonade ice cream and other desserts. A decoction provides an efficient yet gentle sanitary room freshener. Cultivation Tip: Do pinch-prune to shape this herb’s natural legginess. Full sun, good drainage, average water are all that lemon verbena asks for.
7 Love The Herbarist? Keep Reading! By Lois Sutton, Ph.D.
There are many ways to show your love for The Herbarist – and information with you and supporting the educational purpose for that matter, any of The Society’s programs. I truly appreciate of The Herbarist. Great, but there’s room for more! [Information the goals of the Annual Fund for general operational support and about ads in The Herbarist will be coming soon to units. Ads I participate in that. But, I have to admit that my heart beats faster must be submitted to headquarters by June 1, 2019. Forms when anyone mentions The Herbarist! for ads and sponsorships can be found on the HSA website at I hope that you take the time to read the advertisements in the Advertise in the Herbarist.] back of the journal. I like reading about gardens and educational There is, indeed, room for individual support as well. Or programs offered by units across the country. AND I have found alternate ways for a unit to assist journal production. What are dates for unit sponsored spring plant sales within driving distance! they? Sponsorships! Know anyone writing for The Herbarist? Our business advertisers are available to you through internet sales Sponsor that article! Donate toward the cover art. Congratulate a – what an easy way to increase your herbal selections without even member(s) or a unit for reaching an herbal milestone via space in changing from your pajamas! Some even offer discounts to you as the advertisement section. Like to go operational? Think about a an HSA member. sponsorship toward mailing costs of the journal. A Sponsorship These advertisements and unit announcements of events Form with a list of authors for the 2019 Herbarist can be found on and programs provide financial support for The Herbarist as Advertise in the Herbarist web page. well as keep us up to date on HSA activities. Did you know that Didn’t find your perfect match in these ideas? Contact me. of our 42 units, 14 have highlighted their activities in at least five We can be creative and find ways to love The Herbarist together! issues of the last seven? That’s a full third of our units sharing [email protected]
Celebrating 86 Years...
The Herb Society of America is celebrating 86 years! Come celebrate and grow with us! We updated our brand with a fresh, modern style! There’s a new energy infused into every channel of our communications. Don't miss out on our transformation! SAVE YOUR SPACE TODAY! ADVERTISE IN THE HERBARIST! Would you like to tell nearly 2,200 herb enthusiasts about your products or services? The best way is to take out an ad in The Herbarist, the annual journal of The Herb Society of America. Ads are available in various sizes, from 1/8th page all the way up to a full-color, full page, 8 ½ x 11" ad. Call us at 0 2 6 0 1 or drop us a line at: director herbsociety org. We’ll be happy to answer any questions you have, just get in touch with us! Don’t let this great opportunity pass you by! 8 THANKS, THANKS, AND MORE THANKS! By Karen O’Brien, Botany and Horticulture Chair
The Promising Plant Committee Nursery gave us Monarda punctata, and and then results will be compiled for the works hard to gather information on Select Seeds gave us Calendula officinalis following year. They are: new and promising plants; make the very ‘Kinglet Mix.’ All three of these plants are hard decision on which ones sound best pretty easily grown from seed, so it will be ANNUALS to try; and then, ultimately, grow and interesting to see the differences across the Calendula ‘Kinglet Mix’ – new cultivar evaluate those plants so we can share that country as to how they perform. We have Monarda citriodora – lemon bergamot information with our members. Some people in Texas, Montana, Pennsylvania, PERENNIALS plants are clearly stellar choices while Virginia, and New Hampshire so we do others are flops. Sometimes it is because have a wide range of zones. If there is Mentha x piperita – strawberry mint of weather or growing conditions that the anyone out there from the southern states Monarda punctata – horse mint, plants just don’t perform. Sometimes it or far west, we would love to have you join dotted mint is due to insects or other varmints who our efforts to broaden our reach. You can SHRUB, VINE, TREE prefer that particular plant. Or maybe contact me at karen@greenwomansgarden. Abelia mosanensis – fragrant abelia they just don’t live up to expectations. com if you want to help. And don’t forget to Callicarpa americana – beauty berry But even disappointing plants give us patronize these seed companies who have insight into how to make better choices generously donated to our efforts. You can NOTABLE NATIVE™ HERB or help us stretch as gardeners. So thanks order online or from their catalog. Claytonia virginica – spring beauty to all of you who work so hard to keep the https://www.johnnyseeds.com program going. NOTABLE NATIVE™ TREE https://www.selectseeds.com Another BIG thanks go to three seed Hamamelis vernalis ‘Christmas Cheer’ companies who this year responded to https://www.prairiemoon.com – Ozark witch hazel our request for some seeds to give to our The plants chosen for next year (to be growers/evaluators. Johnny’s Selected Seeds presented at the Educational Conference in HERB OF THE YEAR™ gave us Monarda citriodora, Prairie Moon Madison) will be grown by our evaluators Rubus idaeus ‘Fallgold’ - raspberry
By Jen Munson,EdCon Education Chair Scholarship for New HSA Members
We are now accepting applications for our Mad for Herbs in candidate. Please e-mail your interest to [email protected] on Mad City EdCon scholarship which is sponsored by Fragrant Isle, a or before March 25, 2019. lavender farm located on Washington This scholarship covers three days of learning Island in northern Wisconsin. If you opportunities including the annual meeting, are a newer member and obtaining a preconference reception, speaker presentations, little assistance to attend our Annual awards dinner, as well as breakfast and lunch on Meeting of Members in Madison, June 14th and 15th. Sorry, the scholarship is not Wisconsin would be the enticement transferrable. you need to come to EdCon then you are encouraged to apply. About Our Sponsor Fragrant Isle The scholarship criterion is Fragrant Isle was founded on a dream by simple and the application process Martine Anderson. Martine lived in the south even simpler. Qualified applicants of France and long dreamed of having a large should be an active member of The lavender garden. After retiring to Washington Herb Society of America for two Island in a remote area of northern Wisconsin that years or less, have never attended an HSA Annual Meeting of is only reachable by ferry, Martine and her husband, Edgar, looked Members and/or Educational Conference, and be able to arrange for a business in which to invest. When nothing seemed suitable, for your own lodging, transportation, and meals (outside of those Martine’s dream became a reality. In 2013 Fragrant Isle opened their covered by registration). doors with nearly 9,000 lavender plants and today their operation The application is simple. In 300 words or less explain your has grown to 20,000 plants, a retail operation, online shop, and more. interest in attending the conference and why you are the ideal Find them online at https://fragrantisle.com/ 9 Money Musings: Special to HSA Newsletter Planning our (Budget) Garden ‘Tis the Time By Lin Lange, Treasurer In the last newsletter I wrote about “Growing and Harvesting our Resources,” comparing our various fund accounts to different types of gardens - perennial, special purpose, and to Plant Seeds annual. And I mentioned that this time of year is when the national board is deeply involved in planning the annual operating budget for HSA, drawing a parallel to the garden planning By Kim Labash, Seed Exchange Chair and that many of us in northern climates especially spend poring over seed catalogs and garden Mid-Atlantic Membership Delegate plans in anticipation of warmer days to come. Hello everyone, “ ‘tis the season”. If you The warmer days are still on the horizon as I write this piece, but the HSA budget is now have any dry seed you would like to share adopted. Since this is our fiscal plan for the coming year (April 2019 - March 2020), I’ll use with other wonderful members, I would be this space to share some highlights. delighted to receive it. You do not even have First, some background: A few years ago, in an earlier term as your Treasurer, I asked to clean the seed, I will take care of that part. the board to create an Investment Management Committee to oversee the HSA financial Below is the information that I need for the investment accounts. After careful review and spirited discussions, this team recommended seed envelopes. that we change the policies guiding our investments and ultimately change the banking relationship charged with direct management of the funds. The process took longer than Your name anyone had hoped - moving in institutional time - but the changes were completed a year Your e-mail or physical address ago. (Somewhat akin to digging up an established garden and re-establishing a substantially Date seed collected new design! In this case, the work of more than one gardening season.) Botanical Name In the course of those changes we also saw changes in HQ personnel, notably including hiring Gretchen Faro as Interim Director of Operations while the board has undertaken Common Name some long-term self-examination and planning including development of a new long-term Family strategic plan (Strategic Plan Committee) and analysis of staff resources needed to support Zones the plan (Ad Hoc Staffing Committee). Their work is well underway, but not yet complete; Height & Width/Spread and their recommendations will likely require adjustments to the budget plan that was adopted under “business as usual” assumptions for the time being. Germination hints Meantime, Gretchen’s experience with not-for-profit fiscal management has tidied up Uses our accounting data to allow a clearer picture of where our monies come from and how Flower Color we are using those funds. This information, together with the changes in our investment Cultivation management, provided fertile soil for this year’s budget planning process. Most notably, our Organic, if known financial reports now clearly identify and trace both the normal operating activities and the uses of funds from restricted accounts for those defined purposes. If you have a photo of the plant (taken In addition, with anticipated earnings from the invested funds, we were able to pass a by you) and you would allow me to use it on balanced operating budget plan for the coming year. This is exciting news! But we must the list I would be delighted. Just e-mail the keep in mind that a plan is a forecast photo to me at my business e-mail address and not a guarantee. It guides our of [email protected] and activities, helps us make careful and mail the seed to my home address at 19405 informed choices, and provides a Woodtrail Road, Round Hill, VA 20141. basis to measure progress. Unforeseen Contact me if you would like a list of seeds circumstances, much like weather available or find a list of the seeds available events in the garden, will require in the Members Only section of the HSA adaptation; as will anticipated changes website. such as the work of the Strategic Plan and Staffing committees. However, the budget gives us a picture of the garden-to-be and inspiration to carry on through the cold, dark months until we can get our fingers back into warm soil! 10 Upcoming Webinars By Jen Munson, Education Chair
Meet Theresa Mieseler: Author of Beyond Rosemary, Basil, jasmine star, pepiche, porterweed, and scented geraniums. Each and Thyme and our April Webinar Guest Presenter herb is outlined with its history, description, culture and growing, propagation, and uses. What sets this book apart from others are the interesting plant stories written by the person who discovered the herb, or who is a specialist about the plant. However you choose to enjoy this book you are treated to Theresa’s passion and experience on every page. Be sure to frequent Theresa’s website regularly as she will be accepting presales of her book in March. Visit her at www. shadyacres.com
For nearly forty years Theresa and her husband, Jim, operated Shady Acres Herb Farm based in Chaska, MN. As members you may know Theresa Mieseler is a past member of the HSA Board of Directors, editor for the Bay and Calendula Essential Guides, Life Member, and the 2010 recipient of the Nancy Putnam Howard Award for Excellence in Horticulture. Now enjoy Theresa as author. Set to release in early April, Beyond Rosemary, Basil, and Thyme Meet Janice Cox: Author of Natural Beauty from the is Theresa’s new book that encompasses seventy interesting and Garden and our May Webinar Guest Presenter uncommon herbs including cat’s whiskers, cape mallow, caracalla, “My garden is my happy place.” We can all identify with this sentiment and this is how Janice Cox opens her book Natural Beauty from the Garden. You may know Janice best as a natural beauty expert and author. She has published three books on Natural Beauty: Natural Beauty at Home, Natural Beauty for All Seasons, and Natural Beauty from the Garden. Combined her books contain over 600 recipes for body, bath, and hair care products. Janice’s recipes and ideas have appeared in the Herb Companion, the Herb Quarterly, and in HSA’s Herb of the Month guides. Janice has turned a passion into a career. Janice is our May webinar guest presenter sparking a new interest in luffa. You may be surprised and delighted to learn that luffa (loofah) sponges do not come from the sea but are a vegetable in the gourd and cucumber family and can easily be grown from seed. Luffas are best known for their skin scrubbing abilities keeping the skin fresh and clean, but did you know that young plants are also edible and delicious? Recipes for luffa soap, skin scrub, and stir-fry will be provided during this upcoming program. If you are not already a fan you will be after our May webinar. To learn more about Janice visit her website at www. JaniceCox.com where you can purchase all of her books directly. 11 Announcing a NEW Membership Drive By Gloria Hunter, Membership Chair
In keeping with our goal to increase membership and to build upon the last very successful membership drive, HSA is offering members an opportunity to participate in a new membership campaign raffle. Beginning April 1st, for every new member that you bring in to HSA (think family, friends, co-workers), your name will be entered into a drawing for a chance to win a one-year paid membership, a $55.00 value. And to make it more exciting there will be not just one member chosen, but seven members, one from each district. Every time you recruit a new member, your name goes into the pot increasing your chance of winning the prize. For our life members, you will have the opportunity to win a Notable NativeTM basket, also valued at $55.00. These baskets are no longer available, which makes them a treasured gift. The campaign runs until March Enter the raffle to win one year of free dues! 30th, 2020 and the lucky winners will be announced at the 2020 Annual Meeting of Members in Charleston, South Carolina. Your District Membership Delegate and Unit Chair will be receiving information on how you can participate in the new membership drive.
Silent Auction Items Needed By Jen Munson, Education Chair
The silent auction is a favorite part of our educational baskets from units and members, special one of a kind items, and conferences. At Mad for Herbs in Mad City the silent auction special surprise garden or herbal items. will be open all day on Saturday, June 15 giving everyone the Do you have an item you would like to add to the auction? opportunity to bid on items throughout the day. This is a fun Please contact me at [email protected] with a description of "shopping" experience for all who attend. We are looking for herbal your item. Contributors will be listed on conference materials.
12 By Rie Sluder, President Elizabeth “Betsy” Sluder
Elizabeth “Betsy” Sluder, 98, Betsy was passionate about the passed away peacefully at her home world around her and developed a in Concord, MA on December 11, distinguished career in conservation 2018. Born and raised in Boston, and civic affairs. In this, she was she attended Vassar College and talented in handling people of all completed her undergraduate degree sorts. She was a founding member at Radcliffe after marrying John Sluder of the North Castle League of in 1943. After living in several places Women voters in 1953, serving as its in the country, she settled down with president in 1960-1962 and president her family in Armonk, NY. of the Westchester County chapter Betsy was an active member of from 1969–1971. From 1962 through The Herb Society of America for fifty- 2001 she was heavily involved in eight years. She joined the New York a variety of formal conservation Unit in 1960. She held many positions programs including serving as Chair on the board including treasurer from of the Westchester Environmental 1971-1977 and chair from 1982-1984. Management Council, Director Betsy also served on The Society’s of the Westchester Soil and Water opportunity to attend a party. She national board as treasurer from 1978 Conservation District, and Chair of loved The Society and enjoyed to 1980. During her tenure as national the North Castle Conservation Board attending gatherings and the treasurer, she helped to modernize from 1975–2001. Her leadership of annual meetings and educational and streamline the accounting system. the Conservation Board led to the conferences. She was delighted She received the HSA Certificate of mapping of all town wetlands, the to attend the Annual Meeting of Achievement in 1997. establishment of wetland codes, Members at Tarrytown, New York Betsy was an expert gardener and the curtailment of unsound, last May and enjoyed visiting some and a fabulous cook in the French rapacious development. She was of her old stomping grounds. tradition. She was instrumental in the driving force behind acquiring Betsy is survived by her developing the famous New York seventy acres of land for the first children Greenfield, Godfrey, and Unit Lovage Soup served every year substantial park in Armonk, now Eleanor (and their spouses Pat, at the New York Unit Herb Fair. Her named the “Betsy Sluder Nature Rie, and Richard respectively), garden in Armonk was on the Garden Preserve.” five grandchildren, and five great- Conservancy Tour. When she moved to Concord, grandchildren as well as her brother In 2001, at the age of 81, Betsy MA, she continued her civic and John Bradley and her sister Hannah moved from New York to Concord, conservation efforts. In 2008, she Henderson. A memorial service will MA to be closer to her children. She received the National Park Service be organized for late spring. joined The New England Unit and “Conservation Hero” Award for local served on their board for two terms as river conservation. secretary. She was very knowledgeable Betsy was devoted to her about plants and enjoyed working in family and took great delight the unit’s Teaching Herb Garden and in her grandchildren and great answering questions at the annual grandchildren. She loved to travel plant sale’s information booth. and would never turn down the 13 10 Free Things to Enjoy
By Jen Munson, Education Chair While in Madison
You’ve registered for Mad for Herbs in Mad City and even started 3.) The Madison Museum of Contemporary Art offers free making your travel arrangements. Now what? While planning your exhibitions and educational programs showcasing both established stay allow for extra time to visit some of Madison’s local attractions. and emerging artists. Afterwards stop in at the Rooftop Sculpture Many of them offer free admission! Garden for an incredible view of Madison’s skyline. www. 1.) Frank Lloyd Wright: A trip to Wisconsin wouldn’t be overturecenter.org complete without appreciating the architecture of Frank Lloyd Wright. Wright grew up in Madison and studied at the University Located on Capitol of Wisconsin - Madison. Square: a.) The Monona Terrace® Community and Convention Center 4.) Wisconsin State is a must see. Drafted in 1938, Wright’s vision of a civic center Capitol Building: The state connecting Lake Monona and the state capitol became a reality in capitol building is the cen- 1997. Spanning ninety feet out over the lake it offers panoramic terpiece of Madison and views and a walkway that links to downtown Madison. Capitol Square. Plan to tour b.) Wright designed the the State Capitol to take in First Unitarian Meet- its beautiful mosaics and ing House, a house of towering marble columns worship which pro- while learning about Wisconsin’s rich and diverse heritage. www. vides regular tours. tours.wisconsin.gov www.fusmadison.org 5.) Governor’s c.) Many of Wright’s Mansion: Docent-led innovative buildings tours of the governor’s are dotted throughout residence are available Madison. Although and include a historical largely private resi- account of the rooms dences and not open on the first floor of to the public, you can the residence which still enjoy Wright’s is a showcase of art work curbside. Prop- and decoration. Later, erties include the Eu- walk the grounds to take in the gardens and Lake Mendota. www. gene A. Gilmore House wisconsinexecutiveresidence.com aka “Airplane House,” 6.) Wisconsin Historical Museum: This museum shares Walter and Mary Ellen Rudin House, and the Robert M. Lamp Wisconsin’s story from prehistoric times to the present. Explore House. thousands of historical objects, artifacts, special exhibits, and 2.) Olbrich Botanical Gardens: This garden offers free admis- programs showcasing Wisconsin’s history. www.wisconsinhistory. sion to sixteen acres of out- org door gardens featuring stun- 7.) State Street: State Street is a pedestrian-friendly mall that ning landscapes, a lovely connects the State Capitol to the University of Wisconsin - Madison herb garden, and mid-west- campus. Here you will find shops, galleries, restaurants, museums, ern hardy plants. Included and more. www.visitdowntownmadison.com on the property is the Bolz Conservatory which is filled with exotic plants, fragrant Located on the University of Wisconsin - flowers, orchids, free-flying Madison Campus: birds, and a waterfall. Ol- 8.) Babcock Hall Dairy Store: The store is an ice cream, milk, and brich is part of the American Horticultural Society’s Reciprocal cheese shop with dairy products that are all made in-house. Stop in Admissions Program or RAP so admission is free with your HSA at the observation deck to view the dairy plant, which is open to the membership card to the Bolz Conservatory. public for self-guided tours. www.babcockhalldairystore.wisc.edu 14 9.) Henry Vilas 10.) Geology Museum: Zoo: Dane Coun- Here you will learn about the ty’s Henry Vilas geological history of Wisconsin Zoo is an admis- and the ancient sea and land sion free, com- creatures who resided here. See munity sponsored hundreds of rock and mineral zoo and serves as specimens, a black light mineral a leader in animal display, and skeletons from care, sustainabil- dinosaurs and Ice Age animals. ity, and conservation education. www.vilaszoo.org www.geologymuseum.org
WE WOULD LIKE TO WHOLEHEARTEDLY THANK ALL OF OUR SPONSORS OF THE EDUCATIONAL CONFERENCE IN MADISON, WISCONSIN IN JUNE.
15 HSA Calendar March, April and May Events
Central District Mid-Atlantic District Southeast District Wisconsin, Minnesota, Iowa, Illinois, Indiana, and Kentucky Delaware, Virginia, Southern New Jersey, Eastern Pennsylvania, Maryland, Arkansas, South Carolina, Georgia, Florida, Alabama, Mississippi, Mar 30 27th Annual Spring Education Day: West Virginia, North Carolina, D.C. Louisiana, Tennessee, and offshore East Delightful Gardening - Health, Apr 5 - Pennsylvania Herb and Garden Apr 13 Nashville’s 45th Annual Herbs, Books, And Cooks Apr 6 Festival Herb & Plant Sale presented by the Kentuckiana Herb Society Friday, April 5, 2019 11:00 am - 5:00 pm presented by T he Herb Society of Nashville Saturday, March 30, 2019 9:30 am - 3:00 pm Saturday, April 6, 2019 9:00 am - 5:00 pm Saturday, April 13, 2019 9:00 am - 2:00 pm Where: Huber’s Orchard & Winery, 19816 Huber Road, Where: York Expo Center-Memorial Hall, Where: Tennessee State Fairgrounds - Sports Arena Building, Borden, Indiana 334 Carlisle Ave, York, PA 17404 Nashville, TN Info: Jett Rose, [email protected], 812-590-4604 Info: [email protected], 717-433-2776 Info: Mary Thorstad, [email protected] 615-289-6010 Apr 13 19th Annual Herb Symposium: Get Your Herb On Apr 27 - Annual Potomac Unit Plant Sale Western District presented by the Herb Society of Central Indiana Apr 28 Saturday, April 27, 2019 9:00 am - 4:00 pm Alaska, Arizona, California, Colorado, Hawaii, Idaho, Mexico, Montana, Saturday, April 13, 2019 8:00 am - 3:15 pm Sunday, April 28, 2019 9:00 am - 4:00 pm Nevada, New Mexico, North Dakota, Oregon, South Dakota, Utah, Where: 2003 Pleasant Street, Noblesville, IN Where: US National Arboretum, R Street Entrance Washington, Western Canada, Wyoming, Offshore West Info: Connie Patsiner, [email protected] North Terrace, Administration Building 317-251-6986 Washington, D.C. - Free Parking Apr 1 Herb Study Group Info: Kim Labash, [email protected] Herb: Colonial Herb Garden May 18 - Wisconsin Unit Herb Fair 2019 540-554-2748 Monday, April 1, 2019 10:30 am - 12:30 pm Saturday, May 18, 2019 9:00 am - 3:00 pm Where: Denver Mental Health Center, Where: Boerner Botanical Gardens, Hales Corners, WI 53130 May 9 Philadelphia Unit’s 80th Annual 3401 Eudora St., Denver Info: Susan Williams, [email protected], 262-670-0664 Herb Sale hosted by The Philadelphia Unit Apr 13 The Rodgers Ranch Urban Farm Great Lakes District Thursday, May 9, 2019 10:00 am - 1:00 pm Expo & Plant Sale Michigan, Ohio, Ontario, Western New York, Where: Historic Yellow Springs, 1685 Art School Road, Saturday, April 13, 2019 10:00 am - 4:00 pm Western Pennsylvania (Pittsburgh area) Chester Springs, PA 19425 03801 Where: Rodgers Ranch Heritage Center Mar 31 Introduction To Herbs: Their Use 315 Cortsen Rd. , Pleasant Hill And How To Grow Them Session 1 Northeast District Apr 20 Annual Meeting Sunday, March 31, 2019 1:30 pm - 4:30 pm Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Eastern Saturday, April 20, 2019 9:30 am - 12:00 pm Where: Inniswood Metro Gardens; 940 S. Hempstead Road; New York, Connecticut, portions of New Jersey, Eastern Canada Westerville, Ohio 43081 Where: Kirk of Bonnie Brae, United Church of Christ Info: Janet Lawver, [email protected], 614-895-6216 May 21 Brighten Your Food With Edibles 1201 S. Steele St., Denver Tuesday, May 21, 2019 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm Apr 7 Introduction To Herbs: Their Use Where: Strawbery Banke Museum’s Tyco Center, May 6 Herb Study Group And How To Grow Them Session 2 14 Hancock Street, Portsmouth, NH Herb: Thyme Sunday, April 7, 2019 1:30 pm - 4:30 pm Info: Cindi Rohwer, [email protected], 603-812-7473 Monday, May 6, 2019 10:30 am - 12:30 pm Where: Inniswood Metro Gardens; 940 S. Hempstead Road; Where: Denver Mental Health Center, Westerville, Ohio 43081 3401 Eudora St., Denver Info: Janet Lawver, [email protected], 614-895-6216 South Central District Central to Northern Arkansas, Kansas, Missouri, Nebraska, Oklahoma, Texas Apr 10 Annual Herbal Spring Luncheon presented by the Frankenmuth Mid-Michigan Unit Mar 30 Herb Festival at the Wynne Home Wednesday, April 10, 2018 10:00 am - 2:30 pm presented by the Texas Thyme Unit Where: Zehnder’s of Frankenmuth, 730 S Main Street, Saturday, March 30, 2019 8:00am-2:00pm Frankenmuth, MI 48734 Where: Wynne Home Arts Center Info: Joy Gajewski, [email protected], 989.777.3213 1428 11th St. Huntsville, TX 77340 Info: Maryann Readal, [email protected]
Apr 27 Herb Day presented by the South Texas Unit Saturday, April 27, 2019 9:00 am - 2:00 pm Where: Cherie Flores Garden Pavilion, 1500 Hermann Dr. Houston, TX 77004 Info: Karen Cottingham, [email protected]
16 CIETY O O F The Herb Society of America S B A R M 9019 Kirtland-Chardon Rd.
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Fall Newsletter submission deadline: August 19, 2019
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