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YOUR Society!

The benefits of joining the BNCS are clearly outlined elsewhere; the Yearbook, the newsletters, two tickets to our shows (with free admission to the RHS Westminster show and Wisley on show days), 10% discount from many dianthus nurseries, free cultural book, free cultural advice from our experts, full access to our website etc, etc.

However, being a full member of any society is a two way process. What can YOU do for the Society? By individuals contributing, in their own way, any society will flourish. Helping out at our shows is a simple but rewarding way of helping. There is much to be done, setting up the benches and stand, manning the stand during the show and taking everything down. An extra pair of hands for an hour can be extremely helpful and does not require any specialist knowledge. It may enable those who are there all the time to have a break or have a look around the rest of the show. (At some shows helpers will get free admission and parking, another reason to join in). By helping you will meet many of the Society’s experts and judges who will be a source of inspiration and advice.

Another way to contribute is by submitting articles and photos for publication. Everyone has the ability to write something of interest. The novice can write of their early experiences with carnations and pinks and of any difficulties or successes. An account of your favourite varieties with reasons, trips to shows (either ours or other shows where there are dianthus), etc. The more experienced grower will have a wealth of information. Everyone has their own useful tips, (which may be brief), and many will be able to write about their particular interests at length. Whilst for those with experience much of what they do is obvious, newer members will find their advice and comments helpful and interesting. For those with the flair for it poetry or humorous articles are welcome! Articles on floral art using dianthus are of interest. The handyman may well have advice on projects to aid in the cultivation or transport of blooms. What about some biographies of growers and members? Even the origins of the names given to varieties is of huge interest. Articles can be submitted for the Yearbook, the newsletters, or the website and monthly electronic Dianthus Times.
Send articles preferably electronically to:-
Yearbook e-mail rdingram@supanet.com
Newsletter e-mail hammertons320@hotmail.co.uk
Website and Dianthus Times e-mail james.dennison2@btinternet.com
You can always post ideas and suggestions directly on the website discussion forum. Use the Forum. It is there for everyone! For the website just a few notes (and a picture or two if possible) is all that is required!

Growing surplus plants for sale at our shows is an effective way of raising funds and also giving our stands a focus to attract the public (and potential new members). Check which shows sell plants before embarking on this.

You may have other skills and interests which can benefit the Society. Are there any budding film producers out there who would like to produce DVD’s about all aspects of our hobby? Does anyone have the artistic flair to produce greeting cards, calendars etc for the Society. Can anyone make up crosswords or puzzles relating to dianthus for Christmas Quizzes. The possibilities are endless.

What about developing a young persons section to encourage youngsters and schools.

Are there any good suggestions for events for members to participate in. We have had visits to Whetman’s Pinks and Allwoods recently which were very successful. Can anyone suggest exciting venues for the Annual General Meetings? Any suggestions for the 60th anniversary celebrations?

Above all are you doing anything to recruit new members? Why not give a friend a years membership as a present? It might even inspire them to develop a lifelong interest and hobby.

I hope this article will inspire every member to participate more actively in your society. It is what you make it!