Leaders wanted
Are you an experienced rated leader? The Chapter Fundraising Committee is looking for leaders to sponsor activities that raise funds for our Chapter and its publications. Please contact John Lajeuness at 818-248-5763.

ExComm meeting
The Executive Committee of the Angeles Chapter will meet on Sunday, July 24, at 1pm in the Chapter office conference room. Visitor parking is available on the street. Keycard parking by special arrangement. Contact Bonnie Sharpe.

Southern California is a gardener's paradise. Not only do we live in an Eden-like setting, but also the mild climate allows us to grow a wide variety of ornamental plants from all around the world. Sadly, some of these exotic beauties are threatening what little is left of our naturally beautiful wildlands. In addition to the ecological cost there is an economic cost. One study estimates that the total cost of invasives to the U.S. is about $1 billion per year.

Glacier National Park casts a spell on all who witness its grandeur. Its sculpted peaks, turquoise lakes, and magnificent wildlife are its wand, 1.4 million acres its stage.

I had seen so much of this park on television and in pictures over the years. Now it was time to behold its stunning landscapes and remarkable wildlife with my own eyes and capture its splendor with my own camera.

Arundo for miles? Nonnatives threaten to take over wildlands

Invasive weeds-imported plants that hitchhike to new territory and displace native plants-are rolling across our landscape, and no one really knows how to stop them.

What's the big deal about exotic, or nonnative, plants? After all, most of them are benign, even useful. You won't find any objection from Steve Schoenig, president of the California Invasive Plant Council. 'I'm not against exotic plants,' he said. 'I eat them every night for dinner.'