STATE AWARDS
The Garden Club Federation of Massachusetts, Inc.
STATE AWARDS APPLICATION
A. All Award applications require a Book of Evidence unless noted otherwise.
B. CLUB YEARBOOKS
Follow format under Award XIII-B. Send 3 copies to the GCFMA office before the Fall Conference. One copy will be forwarded to the Awards Chairman.
C. EXECUTIVE BOARD MEMBERS
No officer or committee chairman serving on the executive board may receive an annual award while in office. Exception: Flower Show awards.
I. ARBOR DAY
THE CHARLOTTE LANE CONNOR ARBOR DAY AWARD (1984)
A silver bowl will be presented at the Fall Conference to the GCFMA club which conducts the most outstanding Arbor Day tree planting ceremony. Book of Evidence must contain publicity, other groups involved, and number of trees planted. Applications must be received by the state awards chairman by July1st.
II. CHURCH GARDENS
CHURCH GARDENS / SYNAGOGUE / MOSQUE / TEMPLE (1957)
A certificate of merit may be awarded to an individual, an organization, a GCFMA club or a group of garden clubs who have planned and/or planted a religious edifice.
(1) public (2) private
The fitness of the garden to meet the needs of the congregation will be considered rather than the size of the garden. Landscape design which insures the permanent beauty of the garden will be a major consideration, though flower plantings, paved terraces, outdoor altars, etc. will be taken into account. A sketch or architect’s plan indicating proportions and materials used, together with at least one photograph of the garden, must accompany the application.
Scale of Points
Design: fitness, suitability, beauty 25 points
Plant material: low maintenance, hardy, suitability 25 points
Fulfillment of purpose 25 points
Maintenance 25 points
TOTAL 100 points
II. CIVIC DEVELOPMENT - CIVIC BEAUTIFICATION AWARDS
A. CIVIC PROJECTS (1957)
A certificate of merit may be awarded to a GCFMA club or group of clubs for an outstanding civic project completed within the current year which has resulted in a permanent improvement for public benefit in a town, county or counties of the Commonwealth:
1. Establishment of sanctuaries, e.g. birds, butterflies and animals.
2. Municipal gardens.
3. Landscaping public buildings.
4. Memorial gardens.
5. Other.
Book of Evidence must be accompanied by “before” and “after” pictures. No commercial project may qualify for this award.
Scale of Points
1. Design: fitness, suitability, beauty 25 points
2. Plant material: low maintenance, hardy, suitability 25 points
3. Fulfillment of purpose 25 points
4. Maintenance 25 points
TOTAL 100 points
B. THE PRESIDENT’S BOWL (1970)
A silver compote may be awarded at Fall Conference to the club which develops the best civic development program. The program may include civic beautification, roadside improvement, conservation, youth education, and historic restoration or preservation. Applications must be received by the state awards chairman by July 1st.
C. CONTINUING CIVIC PROJECTS AWARD
A certificate of merit may be awarded to a GCFMA club for continual maintenance of one or more civic projects (i.e., window boxes, plantings at municipal/historical building, flowers at hospital/library, etc.). Book of Evidence must include number of years project(s) has(have) been maintained.
(1) Club 10-49 members (2) Club 50-99 members (3) Club 100 or over .
Scale of Points
1. Scope of project to include perceived need and 55 points
results achieved.
2. Involvement 10 points
3. Publicity with name and date of newspaper, 10 points
radio, TV scripts.
4. Letters of appreciation from officials, 10 points
cooperating groups, or recipients.
5. Supporting data, including financial statement 10 points
(cost sheets), general project plan, etc.
6. Effectiveness of presentation and neatness 5 points
TOTAL 100 points
D. FOUR SEASON AWARD (1990)
A silver trophy may be awarded to a GCFMA club with less than 50 members for a series of four small separate seasonal projects, relating to Civic Beautification. These should be in different locations within the community and must represent the four seasons. Book of Evidence to include:
1. Benefit to community;
2. Pictures of the four projects;
3. Description of project(s) and why undertaken; and
4. Numbers of members involved in each project.
E. CIVIC DEVELOPMENT AND HISTORIC PRESERVATION GRANTS
PURPOSE: To encourage GCFMA clubs to pursue community improvement and historic preservation projects by providing seed money grants for new or on-going permanent plantings. Completed projects and commercial plantings are not eligible. Up to $2000 is available each year to be awarded according to the Committee’s decision amongst no more than four applicants. A certificate of merit is also awarded.
Procedure: Submit five (5) copies of the application no later than July 1 to the Civic Development and Historic Preservation Grant Chairman.
1. Clubs receiving grants are expected to take an active role in completing their projects.
2. Clubs have one year after the official notification of their award at the GCFMA Fall Conference to complete their projects and must provide photos of progress made on the project and a one-page report showing expenditures and improvements by Oct.15 of the following year.
3. Grant money cannot be transferred to another project.
4. Clubs who do not submit a progress report will be asked to return their grants. A one-year extension may be arranged if the report substantiates its need.
5. Winning clubs are not eligible to apply for a new project until 3 years after receiving a previous award.
CIVIC DEVELOPMENT GRANTS are made for new or on-going projects that garden clubs will help maintain. A long-term maintenance plan must be included. Examples of appropriate projects:
• Municipal planting projects, including traffic islands, parks etc.
• Landscaping at schools, memorial halls, libraries
• Plantings of labeled trails at nature preserves
HISTORIC PRESERVATION GRANTS are given for new or on-going projects designed to preserve the past in the context of the present. Grants are awarded for improvement of sites that are of historic importance to the local community. Approval of site owners is necessary, if appropriate. Preference is given to accurate period plans that are practical for current uses of the property. A long-term maintenance plan must be included. Examples of appropriate projects:
• Restoration of landscaping at a historic building/property in your community.
• Projects undertaken with local Historic Preservation groups
• Creation of a garden that is site appropriate and authentic to a particular significant historic period.
Grant applications are available on the GCFM website. For more information contact the Civic Development & Historic Preservation Chairman.
IV. CONSERVATION AWARDS
A. CONSERVATION (1957)
A certificate of merit may be awarded a GCFMA club or clubs, which by the completion of one or more projects in conservation, have demonstrated outstanding leadership. The project may be one of the following:
1. Education
2. Open spaces
3. Legislation
4. Municipal gardens
5. Other suitable activity
6. Historic preservation
Scale of Points
Need and objectives to meet the need 25 points
Activities to attain goals 25 points
Extent of involvement by: club members, other groups,
community school systems, levels of government, etc. 25 points
Results 25 points
TOTAL 100 points
B. MILDRED S. PARKER CONSERVATION AWARD (1962)
A silver bowl given in honor of Mildred S. Parker will be awarded to a GCFMA club, a group of GCFMA clubs or an individual member of a GCFMA club, for acquisition, preservation and/or development of the natural resources within the boundaries of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
C.NORMA ZETTLER “FOR LOVE OF BIRDS” AWARD (2011)
This award is in honor of Norma Zettler, GCFM Bird Chairman from 2001-2011.The award is a certificate of merit and a copy of “Norma’s Birds” booklet, if possible, to be presented annually at the Fall Conference. The award may be given to a club or individual for educating the public about the “love of birds.” The project may be a single program for a community; a series of club programs; a project or program for school children or the creation of a local garden that encourages birds.
An application is necessary. Applications must be received by the state awards chairman by July 1st.
V. DISTRICT
THE EVELYN R. COLE DISTRICT AWARD (1953 - Revised 1971)
A silver bowl may be awarded to one of the ten districts every 2 years on the odd years, (certificate to outgoing director and bowl to incoming director). Book of Evidence is due 30 days prior to the Annual Meeting. Awarded to the district which earns the greatest number of points, computed on the following:
Scale of Points
Complete a unified District Project 60%
Quality of the District Meetings 30%
Quality of the Book of Evidence 10%
TOTAL 100%
VI. FLOWER SHOW AWARDS
See current NGC Handbook for Flower Shows for requirements.
Awards A-E: More than one may be awarded if merited.
A. AMERICAN HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY PERENNIAL AWARD (1997)- Discontinued
B. BAY STATE FLOWER SHOW AWARD (1957, Revised 1988,2007)
May be given to a Standard Flower Show staged by GCFMA Garden Clubs and/or Districts of GCFMA clubs. Such a show may be staged in conjunction with an outside organization. More than one award may be given in any current year. This award may only be given if the show does not receive any other Flower Show Award. The show will be evaluated by the following:
Scale of Points
1. Schedule 10 points
2. Staging 15 points
a. Staging (5 points)
b. Practicality (5 points)
c. Unity (5 points)
3. Required divisions: 50 points
a. Horticulture (minimum of 5 classes and
total of 20 exhibits) (25 points)
i. Quantity - 15 points
ii. Number of exhibits in proportion to size of club(s) - 4 points
iii. Correct and legible labeling - 4 points
iv. Exhibits properly classified and placed - 2 points
b. Design (minimum of 5 classes with 4 or more
exhibits in each) (25 points)
i. Quality and distinction - 15 points
ii. Interpretation of schedule - 8 points
iii. Exhibits in every class - 2 points
4. Special exhibits division: 15 points
See current NGC Handbook for Flower Shows for the requirements for:
a. Fewer than 21 members
b. 21 to 49 members
c. 50 to 99 members
d. 100 members or more
5. Quality of show as a whole: 10 points
TOTAL 100 points
C. MASSACHUSETTS CHRISTMAS FLOWER SHOW AWARD (1965, Rev 1988)
May be given to a GCFMA club or group of clubs, for a Standard Christmas Flower Show. The show must feature the spirit of Christmas. Refer to the Bay State Award (above) for the scale of points.
D. MAYFLOWER AWARD (1957, revised 1969)
The Mayflower Award may be given to the design division which is part of a horticulture show sponsored by another organization. This division must be staged by members of GCFMA clubs and judged by the following:
Scale of Points
1. Schedule 30 points
a. Originality, appeal, suitability of theme (10 points)
b. Relationship: Suitability of class themes to division theme (10 points)
c. Scope and number of classes (10 points)
2. Staging 35 points
a. Interpretation of schedule (10 points)
b. Practicality, spacious exhibits, adequate and unobstructed aisles, sufficient lighting (9 points)
c. Unity, neat staging, related color, general order and balance, uniform signs (8 points)
d. d. Beauty, eye appeal (8 points)
3. Quality of Entries: 35 points
a. Interpretation of schedule (10 points)
b. Imagination (originality) (10 points)
c. Overall distinction of exhibits (15 points) ________
TOTAL 100 points
E. MASSACHUSETTS HOME FLOWER SHOW AWARD (1978, Revised 1988)
May be given to a GCFMA club or a group of clubs for a Standard Home Flower Show. Refer to the Bay State Award for the scale of points.
F. MASSACHUSETTS HOME AND GARDENS SHOW AWARD (1982, Revised 1988)
May be given to a GCFMA club or a group of clubs for a standard home show including two gardens. Show will be evaluated by the following:
Scale of Points
1. Schedule 10 points
2. Staging 15 points
a. Staging (5 points)
b. Practicality (5 points)
c. Unity (5 points)
3. Required divisions: 65 points
a. Horticulture (minimum of 5 classes and
a total of 20 exhibits) (20 points)
i. Quantity --10 points
ii. Number of exhibits in proportion to size of club(s) -- 4 points
iii. Correct and legible labeling - 4 points
iv. Exhibits properly classified and placed - 2 points
b. Design (minimum of 5 classes, with 4 or more exhibits in each) (20 points)
i. Quality and distinction --10 points
ii. Interpretation of schedule -- 8 points
iii. Exhibits in every class - 2 points
iv. Exhibits properly classified and placed - 2 points
c. Special exhibits division (10 points)
See current NGC Handbook for Flower Shows for the requirements for:
Fewer than 21 members
21-49 members
50-99 members
100 members or more
d. Gardens (minimum of two required) (15 points)
4. Quality of show as a whole: 10 points
TOTAL 100 points
G. THE MARGARET BENT PATTERSON SILVER BOWL NEAR CLUB AWARD (1979)
This award may be given for a Standard Flower Show sponsored by two or more GCFMA clubs geographically situated near each other, but not affiliated as a recognized council or district. The show must have been a project sponsored and staged by the GCFMA clubs applying for this award. Chairman is to receive bowl which will be displayed at each club in rotation. Refer to the Bay State Award above for the Scale of Points.
H. THE MARGARET E. MARSH FLOWER SHOW ACHIEVEMENT AWARD (1963)
A silver bowl, in memory of Margaret E. Marsh, whose interest in flower arranging was an inspiration, will be presented to that GCFMA garden club which stages a Standard Flower Show receiving the highest point scoring of all shows currently applying for either a national or state flower show award.
I. THE VIOLET E. MACLAREN FLOWER SHOW SCHEDULE AWARD (1966)
In memory of Violet E. MacLaren, an award has been established for the garden club that submits the best schedule for a Flower Show presented during the awards year. The Flower Show need not have been evaluated to receive this award. The award consists of a scholarship to a flower show school course currently given by The Garden Club Federation of Massachusetts, Inc. The winning club is to designate one of its members as the scholarship recipient. Accrued interest from a memorial fund established by the Hamilton-Wenham Garden Club will finance the scholarship. The schedule will be judged using the Scale of Points for evaluating schedules in the latest edition of the NGC Handbook for Flower Shows. An application form, in duplicate, and one copy of a schedule must be submitted, but no Book of Evidence is required.
J. THE ARRANGERS OF MARBLEHEAD FLOWER SHOW AWARD FOR STAGING (1974)
This award is to be given for excellence in staging of a Small Standard or Standard Flower Show presented during the awards year. This award is given in memory of deceased members of The Arrangers. The award consists of a scholarship to a flower show school course currently given by GCFMA. The winning club is to designate one of its members as the scholarship recipient. Application form, in duplicate, one copy of the schedule, and an abbreviated Book of Evidence, two pages, four sides, consisting of pictures and description of the staging is required.
Scale of Points
1. Interpretation of the schedule 20 points
2. Practicability: spacious displays, adequate and
unobstructed aisles, sufficient lighting, ease of
progress from section to section, class to class 15 points
3. Unity: uniform containers in horticulture
divisions, all elements such as placards, signs,
related in color, order, and balance 15 points
4. Distinction and artistry: originality, simplicity,
eye appeal, and special features raising quality
above average 30 points
5. NGC’s standards observed 20 points
TOTAL 100 points
K. JANE D. PORTER STATE FLOWER SHOW AWARD (1971)
A pewter bowl, in memory of Jane D. Porter, who gave many members a start in flower arranging and who encouraged the club to stage standard flower shows will be presented to the GCFMA garden club which stages a Standard Flower Show receiving the highest point scoring in the Design Division.
L. THE BERTHA D. ROQUEMORE AWARD (1972)
A sculptural form is given by the Falmouth Garden Club in memory of Bertha D. Roquemore, a beloved member, to honor her great interest in promoting flower show excellence. This sculpture may be given to the GCFMA club staging a placement show which received the highest point scoring. Refer to the Bay State Award for Scale of Points.
Note: The following awards noted (M, N, O and P) are determined by a panel of three NGC judges using the scale of points as listed with each award. The standard National Garden Club Scale of Points, which the daily judges must use, is not considered. All of these awards are given once for the entire show, if merited, in Design Division One, (GCFMA), of the New England Spring Flower Show, and are presented at the GCFMA Annual Meeting.
M. THE MARIE HANCOCK COOK CERTIFICATE OF MERIT FOR ACHIEVEMENT IN TRADITIONAL FLOWER ARRANGEMENT
(1963, revised 2002) This certificate is given by the GCFMA to the blue ribbon entry, receiving the highest number of points in a traditional period class. The period chosen must be stated in the schedule. See Note above.
Scale of Points
1. Appropriateness to period 45 points
2. Design 30 points
3. Expression 15 points
4. Distinction 10 points
TOTAL 100 points
N. THE DIANE BULLOCK AWARD
This award, a silver trophy, is given to the entry that is the most original interpretation of the class theme, and uses an adventurous combination of plant material and components. Entry must score 85 or above. Blue ribbon winner not eligible. See Note above.
Scale of Points
1. Interpretation 40 points
2. Creativity 30 points
3. Design 20 points
4. Distinction 10 points
TOTAL 100 points
O. THE CLARE L. RICHARDS AWARD (1979)
This award, a plaque, may be given for the entry that best exemplifies the sensitive use of color. The recipient need not necessarily be a blue ribbon winner. See Note above.
Scale of Points
1. Color selection 40 points
2. Color balance 10 points
3. Color proportion 10 points
4. Color rhythm 10 points
5. Color scale 10 points
6. Color dominance 10 points
7. Color contrast 10 points
TOTAL 100 points
P. THE JEANNE-MARIE PARKES CREATIVITY AWARD (1986)
This award, a silver bowl, is given to the design judged by the evaluation panel to be the most creative interpretation of the class title. The recipient need not necessarily be a blue ribbon winner. See Note above.
Scale of Points
1. Design 25 points
2. Interpretation 30 points
3. Creativity 30 points
4. Distinction 15 points
TOTAL 100 points
Q. BETTE LEVINE AWARD (1984)
A certificate of Merit is to be given by The Garden Club Federation of Massachusetts, Inc., to the exhibitor receiving the greatest number of blue ribbons in all classes.in the amateur horticulture section of the New England Spring Flower Show. Awarded. The winner will be determined by the Amateur Horticulture Committee
R. THE RUTH H. THOMPSON AWARD (1974)
Award retired.
S. RUTH A. WALLACK SCHEDULE AWARD (1991)
A silver tray to be given by the Beth Shalom Garden Club of Needham, in memory of Ruth A. Wallack, whose interest in flower arranging and judging was inspirational. The award is given for the Small Standard or Standard Flower Show schedule with the most creative design division. One copy of the schedule and an application form, in duplicate, must be submitted, but no Book of Evidence is required. The show need not have been evaluated to be eligible for this award.
T. THE JANET BUBIER FLOWER SHOW AWARD
An engraved silver bowl, in memory of Janet Bubier, creative designer, who loved miniature designs, may be given annually to a Standard Flower Show in Massachusetts, which displays the greatest creative interpretation in a miniature section. An application form in duplicate, one copy of the schedule and an abbreviated Book of Evidence of two pages, four sides, showing the designs and the staging is required. The show need not have been evaluated to be eligible for this award.
Scale of Points
1. Creativity 40 points
2. Interpretation 30 points
3. Design 20 points
4. Distinction 10 points
TOTAL 100 points
U. THE BARBARA MAY AWARD OF DESIGN EXCELLENCE
A traveling trophy. given once during the show, if merited, to a blue ribbon winner in the Design Division I, (GCFMA) of the New England Spring Flower Show, scoring the highest number of points in a designer’s choice class.
Scale of Points
1. Design 42 points
2. Conformance 20 points
3. Distinction 16 points
4. Artistic concept 12 points
5. Expression 10 points
TOTAL 100 points
V. THE PAULINE BOWDEN AWARD
In memory of our beloved member, Pauline D. Bowden, an English Teapot, will be presented to at the GCFMA Fall Conference to the highest point scoring design during the week of the Topsfield Fair. A certificate will be presented with the award.
Pauline touched many lives through her lectures, teaching and mentoring. Her hands wore the scars of her passion for gardening and flower arranging and reflected the kind of person she was, full of life, deviltry and passion, yet soft and full of love.
Scale of Points
1. Design 40 points
2. Color Selection 25 points
3. Creativity 20 points
4. Distinction 15 points
Total 100 points
W. THE POLLY M. POVALL SMALL STANDARD FLOWER SHOW AWARD (2006)
This award is given to honor Polly Poval, an indispensable and faithful board member of GCFMA for many years. She has served on major committees and led the Federation as an outstanding President and volunteer. Polly’s years of continuous commitment as a steadfast supporter of flower shows has been inspirational. She has been instrumental in educating and encouraging the staging of Small Standard Flower Shows. The Judges for any small standard flower show, using the following Scale of Points, will determine eligibility for this award:
Scale of Points
1. Schedule - meets requirements of SSFS 25 points
appropriate theme
information complete
terminology correct
2. Staging - uniformity 25 points
beauty
practicable
3. Horticulture - appropriate number for size of club 25 points
correctly named
awards given
4. Design - quality 25 points
interpretation
appropriate for level of club
awards given .
Total 100 points
Scale of Point Forms to be sent by GCFMA Chairman of Judges to the Show’s Judges Chairman when recommending judges for the show. The completed forms are to be submitted by the judges to the Flower Show Awards Chairman.
This award, a Certificate of Excellence, will be awarded to GCFMA clubs scoring 85 points or more. No Book of Evidence or application form is required.
VII. GARDEN THERAPY
A. GARDEN THERAPY AWARD (1968)
Garden Therapy certificates may be awarded to a:
1. District
2. GCFMA club
a. Club membership equal to or less than 50 members
b. Club membership more than 50 members
Awards are given for active participation in an outstanding program of garden therapy with handicapped and/or institutionalized persons, in the following categories:
a. Emotionally disturbed patients at hospitals
b. Nursing home
c. Residential
d. Other
A Silver Bowl will be awarded to the club which earns the greatest number of points in categories (3) a-d.
Garden Therapy Scale of Points
1. Presentation and record: 15 points
Neat, concise, history, plan
2. Participation: 25 points
a. (For club award) Membership participation
i. Members participating
ii. Cooperation between club and institution
b. (For individual award) Participation
i. Ingenuity and imagination shown in work
ii. Leadership in stimulating others
iii. Cooperation between individual and institution
for benefit of handicapped
3. Program quality: 30 points
Scope of program—number of persons reached
4. Achievement: 30 points
a. Value to handicapped
b. Degree of participation of the group
c. Duration—years in progress
d. Plan for next year .
TOTAL 100 points
VIII. HISTORIC PRESERVATION
HISTORIC PRESERVATION CERTIFICATES will be awarded to the clubs in each size category receiving the greatest number of points for A. and B.
A. To a GCFMA club for the completion of a historic preservation project such as the restoration of a park, building, and/or garden of importance to the heritage of a particular locality.
1. Club with membership equal to or less than 50 members
2. Club membership more than 50 members
B. To a GCFMA club for decorating in historical buildings of importance to the heritage of a particular locality.
1. Club with membership equal to or less than 50 members
2. Club membership more than 50 members
BARBARA M. SAULNIER HISTORIC PRESERVATION AWARD (1994)
A silver bowl may be awarded to the club receiving the highest number of points for the completion of a Historic Project.
Scale of Points
1. Quality of design embodied in plan 20 points
Suitability of materials for type, kind of period
(refers to both plant material and construction material)
2. Successful completion 45 points
a. Presentation (15 points)
b. Proof of accomplishment (25 points)
c. Involvement by members and other groups (5 points)
3. Distinction or marked superiority 15 points
4. Significance, fulfillment, value, and performance 20 points
TOTAL 100 points
IX. LANDSCAPE DESIGN
VIRGINIA F. THURSTON LANDSCAPE DESIGN AWARD (1988)
An award donated to honor Virginia F. Thurston’s great interest in promoting landscape design. This award may be given to a club or clubs for outstanding activity in the area of landscape design. The activity may consist of a landscape design education program or an actual project using good design for public benefit.
Scale of Points
1. Education program or project 40 points
a. Design (30 points)
b. Horticulture (10 points)
2. Public benefit 15 points
3. Distinction 10 points
4. Suitability of program and/or design 10 points
5. Participation by garden club members 10 points
6. Involvement with public officials 15 points
TOTAL 100 points
X. MEMBERSHIP
MEMBERSHIP AWARD (1984)
A certificate of merit and silver tray may be awarded to a GCFMA club showing the greatest per capita percent (%) increase in paid membership, as of December 31. Winner to be determined by treasurer or dues chairman. No book of evidence or application required.
XI. PROGRAM AWARDS
A. THE EVELYN D. CRONIN HORTICULTURAL AWARD
A certificate of merit may be awarded at the fall conference to the club with an outstanding horticulture meeting, workshop or series of horticulture workshops with member participation or an outstanding garden therapy horticulture program.
1. Year-long workshop program
2. A single program workshop
Applications must be received by the state awards chairman by July 1.
B. BRIDGING THE GENERATIONS AWARD (1988, revised 2002)
Two silver trays, one for clubs under 50 members, and one for clubs over 50 members, given by the Littleton Country Gardeners, may be awarded to GCFMA clubs which have sponsored an outstanding program, preferably in environmental or horticultural nature. Said program should be conducted in such a way that it brings generations together, either by presenting it to senior citizens and school children at the same time or at separate venues. This award may be retained for one year only.
1. Club under 50 members
2. Club over 50 members
C. WILLIAM J. THOMPSON AWARD (1989)
A silver vase in memory of William J. Thompson, may be awarded to a garden club for excellence in horticultural achievement. The activity may involve education, community planting or a conservation project. The activity must include others in the community, children, senior citizens or the public at large. Winner is not eligible for Award XI. A - Evelyn Cronin Award.
D. HELEN FREIDBERG AWARD (1993)
A certificate of merit to be given for the most outstanding horticulture program/programs given by a member or members of the garden club to its membership.
1. Single program
2. Series of programs
E. PATRICIA C. MICHAUD AWARD (2006)
A silver vase, given by the Scituate Garden Club, may be awarded for an outstanding design program or series of programs, given by a member or members of a club to its membership or to neighboring clubs.
XII. PUBLICITY/PUBLIC RELATIONS AWARDS
A. PUBLIC RELATIONS (1960)
A certificate of merit will be awarded to an individual member of a GCFMA club, a GCFMA club, a group of GCFMA clubs who, by some project, have reached the general public in an especially outstanding way according to the approved aims and principles of the state garden club.
B. PUBLICITY PRESS BOOK AWARDS
No application forms are necessary. There is no limit on the number of pages. Eligibility: All garden clubs, districts, councils and garden centers belonging to the NGC, Inc. may submit press books. Garden club entries are divided into four categories based upon membership:
1. Small club: up to 25 members
2. Medium club: 26-50 members
3. Large club: 51-150 members
4. Extra large clubs: 151 members or over
Winners will be presented a National Garden Club, Inc. Certificate of Commendation during the national convention. Winners may be named 1st, 2nd, 3rd and honorary mention in each category (S, M, L, XL) in NGC’s eight regions.
Format: Entries must be submitted in a folder with holes to firmly hold pages —a theme style binder, amphile or oxford brief folder. No heavy scrapbooks, oversized portfolios or loose clippings will be judged. Size is 8.5”x11” or 9”x12”. The cover must have a label affixed stating the category as follows:
Garden clubs: Note category (small, medium, large or extra large); name of garden club; city, state, region; and the name and address of the person submitting the press book.
Districts: List name, location and state.
Councils and garden centers: List name, location and state
Contents: Material must consist of only actual newspaper, magazine, newsletter or any printed publication “clippings’ with the name/date of publication over each article. A table of contents is required. Affix the contents in chronological order beginning with January 1 and ending with December 31.
Each published item must contain the name of the garden club, district, council, garden center and/or individual(s) identified as a garden club member and/or member of the GCFMA district, etc. Underline the first use of the club’s name, the district’s, council’s or garden center’s name in the story.
Press Books will be judged on quality, quantity and diversity of coverage and requirements set forth on the Guidelines for Evaluation of Publicity Press Book. Press books will be returned if stamped, self-addressed envelope is included with the entry.
Deadline: January 25. Send to the Publicity Press Book Chairman.
Scale of Points
1. Press book criteria: 30 points
a. Label on front cover (2 points)
b. News clippings in chronological order (5 points)
c. Underline first mention of garden club, district/council/garden center/state garden club in each news story (3 points)
d. Name and date of publication over each article (10 points)
e. Material neatly assembled in press book, news clippings evenly cut, attractive order of placement, pages numbered and table of contents is required (10 points)
2. Quality: 35 points
a. News articles to include WHO, WHAT, WHEN, WHERE, etc. (20 points)
b. News articles relate to garden club/district/council/garden center activity and/or to individual member’s related activity (magazine, newsletters, journals) (15 points)
3. Quantity: 20 points
a. Articles for each month (take into consideration dark months) (10 points)
b. Use of publications in addition to newspapers (magazines, newsletters, journals etc. (10 points)
4. Diversity of coverage: 15 points
Local, district, state, region and NGC .
TOTAL 100 points
XIII. PUBLICATIONS
A. PUBLICATIONS AWARD
A certificate of merit may be awarded to a club or district for publications, excluding periodicals or yearbooks. A certificate may be given in each separate category if merited. Examples: cookbook, calendar, handbook, etc. Book of Evidence not required. Application Form is required.
1. Clubs under 50 members
2. Clubs over 50 Members.
B. MARGARET K. BELL NEWSLETTER AWARD
A silver tray for a newsletter (1-4 pages) – 3 consecutive issues. Book of Evidence not required. Application Form is required.
C. YEARBOOK (1957)
A certificate of Merit may be awarded for the best garden club yearbook submitted in each of the following classes:
1. Clubs under 20 members
2. Clubs of 20-29 members
3. Clubs of 30-44 members
4. Clubs of 45-69 members
5. Clubs of 70-99 members
6. Clubs of 100-300 members
7. Clubs over 300 members
Book of Evidence and Application Form is not required. Three Copies of the yearbook must be received in the GCFMA office prior to the Fall Conference.
Scale of Points
1. Format: 15 points
a. Book structure (3 points)
(convenient size, durability, neatness)
b. Arrangement of contents (12 points)
i. Cover: Name of club, town, state, year (design optional). If permanent-type binder cover is used, substitute paper cover for contest (2 points)
ii. Title page: Name of club, town, state, year, number of members, NGC and other organizational membership. (4 points)
iii. Subsequent pages: Names and addresses of national president, regional director, state president, state district or regional director, association or NGC chairman (if any) and club officers. Club membership roster with complete mailing addresses, zip codes, and phone numbers. Calendar of events (other than regular meetings). (6 points)
2. Program content: 85 points
Goals for ideal club program: Study and activity on some of the NGC objectives such as birds, Blue Star Highways, civic development, garden therapy, high school junior gardening, horticulture, landscape design, legislation, litter prevention, roadside development, world gardening, etc.
a. Club meetings (50 points)
i. At least seven meetings a year.
ii. When - Date of meeting
Where - Place of meeting
What - Title of speakers’ subject (extras like roll call, exhibits or social activities optional). When a theme is used, it should prevail in at least a majority of the meetings.
b. Club projects (35 points)
i. Continuing projects and new projects for current year should be listed separately.
ii. Give location, description and member participation of both types of project.
iii. Note where subjects of meetings pertain to project work. .
TOTAL 100 points
XIV. ROADSIDE BEAUTIFICATION
THE MARY F. BREWER AWARD (1965)
A silver tray to be known as the President’s Tray. This award may be given to an individual club or clubs for outstanding roadside beautification within the boundaries of the clubs’ township. The project may be a continuing one, but sufficient accomplishment must be apparent to merit the award. No commercial project will be eligible. Book of Evidence must be accompanied by “before” and “after” pictures.
Scale of Points
1. Project plan: 20 points
Adoption, objectives, financial plan, community involvement and cooperation, maintenance
2. Accomplishment: suggested projects 30 points
Abolishment of dumping, removal of billboards, screening, improvement of unsightly stands or buildings, landscaping beautification, etc.
3. Proof of accomplishment: 25 points
Before and after pictures, dated publicity, letter of appreciation
4. Value of project: 25 points
Statements from officials, citizens, other who have benefited from the project .
TOTAL 100 points
XV. SERVICE AWARDS
A. SPECIAL ACHIEVEMENT (1957)
A certificate of merit may be awarded to a club or group of clubs or individuals who are members of a GCFMA club for especially outstanding garden club work.
Scale of Points
1. Presentation: 20 points
Neat, concise, complete as to rules
2. Record: 20 points
Step by step, clarity, size of club (town, district federation), size of institution, project, etc.
3. Action: 20 points
Constancy throughout the year, member participation, goal reached
4. Achievement: 40 points
Scope of accomplishment, well balanced and/or concentrated list of topics and/or activities, cooperation with other organizations (if applicable), supporting data, summary, letters, pictures, slides, news clippings, etc. Additional information. _________
TOTAL 100 points
B. A CERTIFICATE OF MERIT
Awarded to an individual and/or organization, and/or an institution other than a garden club for some special contribution toward the advancement of the work of garden clubs. A letter of commendation from the garden club is necessary.
C. PRESIDENTIAL CITATIONS
Awarded at the direction and/or discretion of the president for meritorious service. No application form is necessary.
XVI. WEBSITES
THE BARBARA MAY WEBSITE AWARD
This award is named in honor of Barbara May, a former President of the GCFMA and former President of the National Garden Clubs, Inc. Barbara was the first person to introduce the use of a website to the GCFMA.
A Certificate of Merit will be awarded at the Fall Conference to a member club, for a website maintained by that club. The website must contain information pertinent not only to activities of that garden club, but also those of the Garden Club Federation of Massachusetts, Inc., the New England Region and The National Garden Clubs (Calendar of Events, special programs, etc).
The website must be linked from www.gcfm.org.
Three certificates may be awarded as follows:
1. small club (29 or fewer members)
2. medium club (30-99 members)
3. large club
A GCFM Awards Application must be filled out in duplicate. It must contain the following information:
1. website address
2. who maintains the website
3. how often the website is updated.
The GCFM Awards committee will go to the websites and review them to determine the Website Award winners. Clubs must apply by July 1st.
XVII. WILDFLOWER PRESERVATION
THE LA VERNE R. COLLARD WILDFLOWER AWARD (1986)
A silver bowl will be awarded to a GCFMA club, a group of GCFMA garden clubs, or a district for an outstanding development of a wildflower project, using wildflowers or a combination of wildflowers and other indigenous plant material in historic gardens, memorial gardens, nature trails, parks, school grounds (outdoor classrooms), cemeteries, fairgrounds, Blue Star markers, town entrances, etc. Application must be accompanied by “before” and “after” photos. No club, group of clubs, or district may receive the award two years in succession or retain it for more than one year.
Scale of Points
1. Design (compatibility and adaptation to the area) 35 points
2. Educational 25 points
3. Visual appeal 25 points
4. Membership and other organizational participation 15 points
TOTAL 100 points
XVIII. YOUTH ACTIVITIES
A. MITZI BELITSKY AWARD (1983, Revised 2002)
A silver vase, the gift of Leslie Frost, will be awarded to a GCFMA club or district in recognition of an outstanding program of achievement in work with children.
B. JUNIOR GARDEN CLUBS (1957)
A certificate of merit may be awarded to an organized junior garden club, sponsored by a GCFMA senior club, for an outstanding program promoting all phases of garden club work.
C. A CERTIFICATE OF MERIT may be awarded to any Ecotot (junior), intermediate, and/or high school garden group for a standard flower show.
XIX GCFM SPECIAL AWARDS
A. THE CINDORA GOLDBERG AWARD
This award is given in tribute to Cindora Goldberg. The award honors her ability to continually see and create in an innovative manner. The award is in the form of a certificate, and will be given to the most outstanding design submitted by a member of The Garden Club Federation of Massachusetts, Inc.
The entries should represent the very best examples of design work, and must be in the form of photographs, transparencies, slides, JPEG or digital photographs. The entries will be judged by the Cindora Goldberg Award Committee.
The winner will be announced at the Annual Meeting of The Garden Club Federation of Massachusetts, Inc. A full color photo of the winning design will appear in the September/October issue of the Mayflower.
Rules
1. Designs to be submitted will be limited to three entries from any one designer. They should represent the most outstanding example of that designer’s work. The entries will take one of the following forms:
a. A color photograph at least 5”x7” in size
b. A color transparency
c. A 35 mm slide
d. A JPEG or digital photograph
2. An entry form must accompany each application listing all the plant material and other components, along with a short description of the design.
3. All entries must be received by April 1st.
4. Entries become the property of The Garden Club Federation of Massachusetts, Inc. and will not be returned.
5. Entries will be judged by the Cindora Goldberg Award Committee.