[bactrus]

Casey,

Allow me to explain why the competition is held so close to the previous one (just 6 months). Last weekend of May is the usual time when this Penang International Floral Fest is held. (I don't know about international nowadays but I am happy with just Floral Fest). This last Fest was held in November because the New state government was too new to get the momentum of things (Disclaimer: I suppose). Therefore the fest has delayed a few months till November 2008.

Yes, we require people to enter the competition, especially the cp section. That cost money. Without saying much, David coming from KL spend some good $$$ during that weekend! You're right Casey, cos money to prepare the plants for competition. However, one thing good about CPs is they need just a little more "tender loving care" to get them into a good condition. Don't think need lots of $$$ to make them look good unless you're thinking of entering terrarium or community plant category- thinking of proposing.

The most expensive part is to transport the plants from another state and back to the respective owners after the event. David, myself and I don't know who else, were thinking of chartering a van/lorry/bus etc to bring the plants from you KL/Ipoh folks and bring it back to you. Simple mathematics, more participants cheaper the cost per plant.

Regarding care of plants. Last year the organisers promised guards, proper watering (misting or sort) and proper location for the exhibit/competition. Well, everything except the first two items were fulfilled (2 of three)! To rectify the shortcomings I say, the Penang members led my Piscisilim has shown enough commitment by taking turn Rukun Tetangga-ing (community watch) the plants! Lim himself actually stayed so many days (9 to five) till he got sick! That's leadership by example, a brave show of responsibility. We will endeavour to rectify the shortcomings and we don't see it as a impossible to solve problem.

Reason why I am urging/encouraging/hammering members to participate is simple. Sum up in six alphabets P-O-I-S-O-N!!!

Now, please jump yet. I am just informing members that is all. Hope this year's be more successful than last year. Last year we had 200 submission. About 30% came from our forum. Come one members, we can do better. Just look at Adam's (strath76) thread on VCPS annual exhibition. It was a Wow! Successful event. Hope we can emulate and better the VCPS..... one day.