Dear AIS members,

I would like to extend an invitation to you all to come enjoy the
Region 21 Spring Convention and Garden Tour held this May 23rd – 24th.
The Lincoln Iris Society will host this annual event and it is sure
to be an excellent convention this year. There are six gardens slated
to be on the tour this Spring, showcasing the private iris collections
of LIS members.

On the tour are the gardens of Dean and Judy Douglas, Jenny and Mark
Cich, David and Marjorie Lionberger, Dottie Ladman, Jean Pedersen, and
Gary White & Linda Rader. This will be the first time on regional tour
for most of the gardens; back on the tour this year are the Douglas
and White/Rader gardens, both large gardens. In addition to a whole
lot of irises, the gardeners also dabble in an eclectic assortment of
other perennials, so there should be something of interest for
everyone.

There will also be an opportunity for Judges’ Training and a program
presented by immediate past AIS president Judy Keisling.  This is a
not to be missed opportunity for lovers of iris.

There is often a hesitation to participate in large regional events
from novice iris lovers but I would like to say this is a perfect
opportunity to meet iris lovers of all levels of experience from the
master showman and hybridizer to those growing their first iris.  If
you’ve ever wanted to learn more about growing or showing iris and you
love to see “real” gardens you will not want to miss this opportunity.
This is the perfect time to come see what the American Iris Society
and their affiliates are about, meet  like minded gardeners, and enjoy
some beautiful gardens!

These events are open to non-AIS members as well and the Lincoln Iris
Society are superb and welcoming hosts so come and bring a friend or
neighbor.

Hope to see you in the gardens!

Linda Wilkie
Regional Vice President, AIS Region 21