Fred,
There is a reason that ABS reflects the overall state of bonsai in the U.S (to a degree) - because
they (ABS) are the leader organization for bonsai in the U.S.!! This is a point that I have tried to communicate to ABS and to enthusiasts. I have criticized ABS for not representing the fullness of the endeavor and have received criticisms myself for having done so - saying that I should not be targetting ABS. Well why the heck not? ABS
sets the standard for the bonsai endeavor in North America. They are supposed to have a responsibility to represent the fullness of the American bonsai endeavor - yet they do not. That they don't realize their mistake is laughable. They simply refuse to be a leader and are bent on merely existing in order to exist, it seems (to the detriment of the endeavor they claim to represent).
Yes, I'm laying it on thick and for good reason: I'm a concerned and enthusiastic member of their organization and the endeavor they are concerned with. It's not as if ABS is a local or state organization; they're supposed to be
the leader in the U.S.A. Leaders must insist on a high standard and must not shrink from it. ABS ought to have
the must-read magazine (as good or better than BT), they ought to host
the must-attend national exhibit event(s), they ought to have bigger and better programs than a measly
state organization like GSBF has - but they do not and seem unconcerned!
I don't want to tear down ABS. I do, however, insist that they do a good job and exemplify excellence. They do not and people ought to say so until they do.
Kind regards,
Andy Rutledge
www.andyrutledge.com/palaver/main.htm
zone 8, Texas