We are well into September now and enjoying the Autumn Colour all around us.  Now is the time for you Gardeners                   to divide and pot up some rare and precious plants for our Plant Corner at the National Festival next June. 

As the nights draw in all the Crafty knitters and sewers can get busy “crafting” for the Craft Table. 

At the Ennis Festival children’s items and, believe it or not, Tea Cosies were the best sellers.  We are also going to

have a “Much Loved Floral Accessories” recycling area, so you can pass on your floral accessories that you loved but 

have over used and would like to pass on. 

The AOIFA Education Programme is well under way.   In September and October there will be days in Doddervale,

Bray, Tipperary, Ennis and Wexford.  Eight venues in all held Education Days. 

I think there is some mis-understanding among some Clubs regarding the Education Programme.  This day is

funded by AOIFA, paying for the Tutor and Venue, teas & coffees.   All Clubs are invited to send 5 members, a

Beginner, an Intermediate, 2 Advanced and an Observer.  To my amazement some Clubs send no members. 

Clubs are constantly asking for Classes and Tuition, here it is for free and not being utilised by some.  The Feedback

from these days is always positive and Clubs who attend really enjoy the learning and sociable aspect of the day.

The viewing day for the Flower Festival in Ardee is October 8th at 2pm.   If you cannot make the day, we will be

delighted to send on a photo and details of the space for you Club or Individual Members.

The Heats for the inter-Club and Floral Artist of the Year will be taking place in Clonakilty and Bray on the 22nd October,

2016.   If you are not taking part you are more than welcome to come and view the Competitions from 3.30-5.30pm. 

I would like to send my Best Wishes to all the Trainee Teachers in their Exams taking place the week of 25th October.  

The Council Meeting is on the 3rd November in Moran’s Red Cow Hotel with a Demonstration in the afternoon

by Eileen O’Brien, Kinsale in the afternoon and that means that Christmas is on its way!

 Enjoy the Autumn.

 Candy

AOIFA Chairperson