On the morning of March 20th, the first AOIFA AGM was held by Zoom. Mary and her team of Candy, Mary, Margaret, Bridie, Noreen, Teresa, Rosalie and Geraldine pulled out all the stops and did a magnificent job, thank you. We wish them well as they hand over to the incoming Executive Team.

I am delighted to welcome Mary, Ann, Margaret, Elizabeth, Paula, Florence, Bridget, Eileen and Emma, the new team for 2021 -2023. As we are in the season of Spring I would love you to put up a photo of your favourite Spring design on the AOIFA Facebook page.

I am between gardens at the moment. I am enjoying container gardening and have surprised myself at how much I have been able to achieve. Last Autumn I planted a selection of bulbs. The daffodils are just spectacular, and tulips are not far behind. I decided to plant a selection of blue in one pot, first pansy/viola then under-planted with chionodoxa (glory of the snow.) I had never planted them before, they did not disappoint. They are beautiful!

Coming along nicely are the lovely elegant camassia (they come in blue, purple and white.) They are a great cut flower and have many uses in Floral Art.

As the long summer days are approaching I am looking forward to the time when we can all meet up again.

Take care and stay safe,

Christine

• "Inspired by" Teaching Demonstrations by AOIFA Teachers

• Favourites through the Gardening Year by Bríd Kelleher, Sutton Floral Art Group

• Spotlight on some AOIFA Clubs who have managed to negotiate Lockdown and stay in touch with their members online

Nancy McKeever, a member of Doddervale Flower Club, Dublin, has ensured that the Flower Arranger magazine was delivered to AOIFA clubs in Ireland since 1986. She is now passing on the baton after 34 years of uninterrupted, dedicated service.

Nancy, who is Life Vice President of AOIFA, has been a staunch member of the Association since the 1970s. She served as Chairperson from 1994 to 1996 and President from 1996 to 1998. During that period she made many friends travelling throughout the country promoting Education Days. She has served AOIFA tirelessly as a Teacher and Judge, encouraging students and competitors along the way. She is a NAFAS National Judge.

Nancy was a member of the WAFA Ireland Committee, when the 11^th World Flower Show was staged in Dublin in 2014. She was editor of the WAFA Ireland Book, “ Duilleoga”.

Now, that Nancy is retiring from this job, she will have more time to devote to her on-line duties as Editor of Doddervale Flower Club Newsletter, the study of Latin and compiling a book on family history.

The Flower Arranger would like to add their sincere thanks to Nancy for her tremendous dedication over so many years. Nancy has always been a pleasure to deal with – cheerful, kind and considerate. We wish her all the best with her future activities.

The photograph below shows Mary O’Brien, Chairperson of AOIFA congratulating Nancy on her long commitment to The Flower Arranger on the occasion of the AOIFA Sapphire Celebrations.