Coordinator's Comments

Mark your calendars for the 2002 Master Gardener Conference hosted by the Ozark Gateway Master Gardeners in Joplin September 28-29, 2002.

SEPTEMBER 11, 2001
We have all mourned the tragic events surrounding the devastation in New York and Washington, D.C. Many Master Gardeners have asked what we can do as a group to show our support of our nation.

Several Master Gardener groups throughout Missouri have planted a "Memorial Tree" in honor of those who lost loved ones in the September 11 tragedies, or those who have given their assistance as the nation rebuilds.

Master Gardeners throughout Missouri are also launching a campaign called "Trees of Strength." This effort started with the North Carolina Extension Master Gardeners encouraging gardeners to plant memorial "Trees of Strength" at public and private sites to serve as a living memorial to the thousands of people who died and will honor those who protect and defend our country. I will have more information with regards to this program in the next Heartland Horticulture newsletter

I would also like to ask that you consider helping your local communities in any way possible. With efforts so strongly aimed toward the areas of destruction, local communities are in desperate need of assistance as well to cope. Specifically, the food banks and food pantries are in desperate need of food as winter approaches. Please con-sider hosting a food drive in the upcoming month to give your local food bank a boost. And again - thank you for all you do throughout Missouri!

MASTER GARDENERS IN COSTA RICA
I will be hosting the first professional development study tour for Missouri Master Gardeners to Costa Rica in February and I invite you to join us. As University Outreach and Extension Master Gardeners, our mis-sion is to involve people in improving the quality of life and enhancing the economy and environment through horticultural education. This study trip is aimed at enabling you to view your own horticultural environment through the eyes of another culture.

The primary objectives of this trip are:

• Increase your skills and knowledge of global horticulture.
• Help you advance personally and profession-ally as a Master Gardener.
• Expand your knowledge of our global society.
• Bring new creativity to your teaching and gardening approach.
• Let you see our tropical houseplants growing in their native habitat.

Master Gardeners are welcome to include traveling companions who are not Master Gardeners. Interested Master Gardeners should request a registration packet from Mary or Glen Easter (573-769-2071).

Mary Kroening
State Master Gardener Coordinator
Kroeningm@missouri.edu
(573)882-9633