bneff

I agree with what you've said Chris. Earlier this year while planning a Master's visit there was a "discussion" about the demo. One board member was adamant that the demo include a potting the demo tree into a bonsai pot. It was discussed that we wouldn't be doing the tree any benefit by styling it but then forcing it into a bonsai pot at the wrong time. The whole discussion of are we showing the master's skills or just creating a tree for raffle that will die ensued. The dissenter would not change their view and said "If we're paying for a demo then I want a full demo including putting it a pot." The problem was solved by a member buying the tree for the demo with the knowledge that they would keep the tree afterwards and there would be no raffle.

I think there has to be a mindshift change from the "We've always done it this way" to working together with the Master and the clubs expectations for long term benefits.

Bill