The dormant season during winter is the perfect time for making plans for spring, which is what 12 members of the Great Bend Garden Club did at their February meeting. Club members discussed spring maintenance and beautification of the Rose Garden located in the Great Bend Cemetery.  
Since 1941 the Great Bend Garden Club has undertaken the task of purchasing the roses and décor which provide a beautiful and restful atmosphere for those visiting loved ones in the cemetery. Included are the memorial plaques on which anyone can purchase names of family members whom they wish to commemorate. All of the roses, trellises, plaques and benches through the years have been and continue to be possible because of private donations, both large and small, made by individuals with a desire to keep the Rose Garden growing and colorful with a changing variety of beautiful roses and decor. Through the years the club members have faithfully worked to keep the roses planted and pruned, the weeds pulled, the grounds watered and green and new names engraved on the Memorial Plaques. The Great Bend Cemetery, under the leadership of Tim Wornkey, has recently provided a new watering system. The Great Bend Garden Club appreciates the support of our community.
During the business meeting, conducted by President Nancy Swafford, Rose Garden chairman, Alice Young recommended cooperating with the Great Bend Beautification Committee, using memorial moneys received by both organizations, in the purchase of statuary in memory of Mary Kummer Maneth who was a long-time, dedicated member of both organizations. It was decided to do so and Alice will represent the Garden Club in this selection process.
Plans for a spring work day will be made in consultation with Tammi Wagner, who has been engaged to help with the garden maintenance this summer.
Plans were discussed concerning a field trip to Larned this May to visit the Larned Garden Club’s garden in Schnack Park and possibly other gardens in the Larned area.
Delicious refreshments were served by Bonnie Sarff.
The next meeting of Great Bend Garden Club will be at 10 a.m. on March 17 in the meeting room of the Barton County Extension Office. Any member of the community interested in gardening is invited to attend.

Great Bend Garden Club minutes were submitted to the Great Bend Tribune by Carol Woodmansee.