A Message from Our President

Dear NBS Members,

As we head into July and most of our trees begin entering their summer dormancy, I hope everyone finds time to enjoy family, friends, and other interests. While we do not have regular club meetings in July or August, we have several activities that may spark your interest. If you’d like to sign up for an upcoming workshop, please email me at [email protected].

I am excited to share that we have created a new voting board position: Member-at-Large. This role will serve as the voice or pulse of our club—helping to represent member interests at board meetings. If you’re interested in stepping up or nominating someone, please let me or any board member know.

We’re also pleased to announce that professional photos from our 50th Anniversary Show (courtesy of Photography by Michael Stricklin) will be posted on our website after the July 4th weekend. Be sure to check out the album and explore our Calendar of Events while you’re there.

Finally, mark your calendars for our always-popular Garden Tours in August, hosted by Curt & Susan Hagenau and Drew Binkley. We’ll send a reminder and additional details with the August newsletter.

Wishing you all a joyful and restful summer.

With gratitude,

Sara Hopson

President, Nashville Bonsai Society

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STAY CONNECTED

👥 **NBS Facebook Page**

🌐 NBS Website

📅 NBS Calendar

IMPORTANT DATES*

🍺 Sat, July 12– Beer and Bonsai

*more info below

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On Saturday, June 28th, Sara and John Hopson graciously hosted the sixth and final session of our 2025 Mentorship 101 course. This year, we nearly doubled our student count with 12 participants—something I’ll admit made me a little nervous at first as the instructor. But from the very first class back in February, it was clear we had a special group: eager to learn, engaged, and full of curiosity. Thanks to the incredible support of our dedicated mentors, I knew this cohort was going to be something great.

We couldn’t have asked for a better group of students. It’s been a joy watching each of you grow in confidence, skill, and understanding. We congratulate you on completing the course and sincerely thank you for your commitment and enthusiasm. We raise our scissors to you: Elizabeth, Hunter, Oryan, Sam, John, Chris, Remi, Carmello, Jane, Mitzi, Nicole, and Dane.

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Sara and I would also like to extend our deepest thanks to the mentors who stepped up and shared their time, insight, and support: Eileen Knox, Marshall Hindley, Michael Kidder, John Scarpelli, Kurt Smith, and Albert Kolbe. Your dedication and generosity are what make this program not only possible, but truly meaningful. Thank you for helping us continue to carry & grow this wonderful program.

Cheers,

Drew Binkley & Sara Hopson

🗓️ EVENTS

🍺 JULY – Beer and Bonsai!

Saturday, July 12 | 12:00 – 3:00 PM

📍East Nashville Beer Works - 320 E Trinity Ln, Nashville, TN 37207

Join us for a fun and informative meeting at a local brewery! We'll focus on tropical species - perfect timing as these trees thrive in summer conditions. Bring your tropical trees for group discussion and advice.

What to bring:


🌳 August 9, 9:30am–12:30pm

NBS Garden Tours