The Garden Club of Georgia, Inc. held its 78th Annual Meeting April 19 21 at Atlanta's Crown Plaza Ravinia. The theme of the convention, Kaleidoscope II, energized members to show their colors in their own unique way. GCG is divided into seven districts, and each district was assigned a color by Laurel District Convention Chairs Jean Sawyer and Margaret Ballard. They are Laurel, red; Azalea, yellow; Oleander, blue; Camellia, green; Magnolia, orange; Dogwood, violet; and Redbud, aqua. Members of Pine Needle Garden Club of Lincolnton were among the over 900 garden club members that participated in this bonanza of color.

Dollie Harper, Hartwell, president of the 14,000 plus member organization presided over the working sessions. The three-day meeting emphasized youth, scholarships and the environment. Display presentations by board of directors, ranging from simple to elaborate, completely redecorated the ballroom area. In the reception area, a representative from each district created a design for hotel guests, as well as, garden club members.

The convention started with three very informative workshops. Julia McClanahan on Habitat for Humanity, and Kathy Haynes gave much needed advice concerning a successful flower show. GCG Immediate Past President Jaydee Ager moderated the workshop on Governmental Affairs, Public Policy and Legislative Advocacy for GCG Members to a packed audience. Governor Sonny Perdue socialized with garden club attendees before the parade of club and council presidents at the opening dinner.

At Thursday morning's traditional district breakfasts, Pine Needle Garden Club of Lincolnton received the Standard of Excellence Award, followed by the opening of GCG's 78th Annual Convention. Following the business session, the highly anticipated Youth Luncheon where GCG High School Speech first place winner for 2005-2006 Chris O'Connell of Roswell, delivered his award winning speech.

Awards night was a kaleidoscope of color, and festive as ever with the charming National Garden Clubs President Kitty Larkin, Wisconsin, and our own GCG President Dollie Harper handing out well-deserved awards for work well done.

State, Deep South and National Life Members were honored at the closing luncheon on Friday.