October 2025 President’s Message

Gates welcomes fall, enjoying cooler weather for gardening. The club participated in the Heritage Club Fair, expanding membership awareness of cacti. The recent Cook Off featured delicious entries and a successful barbecue at Judy Horne’s home. October’s meeting includes a talk by Jan Emming and a “dead plant” mini-show category.

September 2025 President’s Message

Jeffrey Loew greets the Gates community, wishing everyone a wonderful summer as SoCal’s heat returns. He reminds members to water diligently during hot days and announces that Jorge Ochoa will speak on edible succulent landscaping in August.

August 2025 President’s Message

Jeffrey Loew greets the Gates community, wishing everyone a wonderful summer as SoCal’s heat returns. He reminds members to water diligently during hot days and announces that Jorge Ochoa will speak on edible succulent landscaping in August.

July 2025 President’s Message

In a summer greeting, the Board encourages members to vend free at monthly meetings, reminding them of first-come, first-serve table availability for cacti and related items. Members are invited to John Reynolds’ home on July 12, 2025, for Ann’s propagation collection. Karen Ostler will speak on Ferocactus in July.

June 2025 President’s Message

This year’s annual show and sale was a remarkable success, achieving record sales and attracting numerous new member sign-ups. With exceptional volunteer efforts, a variety of plant exhibitors showcased stunning cacti and succulents. Thanks were extended to all contributors, and upcoming events were highlighted, including a talk by Sandy Masuo.

March 2025 President’s Message

In just two short months we will be hosting our annual show and sale. This is not only our club’s major revenue stream to maintain operations, but also a huge opportunity to grow our membership and showcase our interests.

February 2025 President’s Message

I hope everyone is safe and you are enjoying time with your family and friends. It is important to take this time to practice gratitude and appreciation, especially as so many of our fellow LA-based cacti and succulent community members have lost not only their beloved succulent collections, but also their homes and livelihoods.

The First 2025 President’s Message

The November meeting for Gates is scheduled for Friday, focusing on BBQ results, a succulent nursery field trip on November 9th, and upcoming elections for two Board positions. Participants are reminded to bring a bagged lunch for the trip and to take a ballot for voting during the meeting. See you soon!