Sympathy Class June 12, 2005, a friendly and attentive group. J appreciated their dedication to continuing their own floral education. It's never easy to give up free time but everyone seemed to have fun while gaining knowledge, to be not only better florists, but also better businesspeople.

J reviews many of the personalized tributes in the John Henry's Sympathy Flowers publication during the class. Lots of discusions were had on how to adapt these projects to students markets.

The class gets busy with the first hand-on project.

J assists a participant with a technique for the domed arrangement.

All of the domed arrangements made by the class are displayed for all to review and learn from.

The second hands-on project involed experimenting with caged floral foam to practice spray bar techniques.

J discusses techniques for weaving leaves.

J with Rojahn & Malaney hostess Tina Elsafy. Tina made life easy for all that day - even providing a $30 voucher to class participants. Thanks to Rojahn's for supporting floral education by hosting this event - and special thanks to Tina for giving up her Sunday to ensure that the class went smoothly!

The final hands-on project was this extended cross. This is a beautiful example of creative expression, as J did not demonstrate this project to the class. He described it, and was more impressed with the class's results than when he demonstrated the other two projects.

After class was completed Tina celebrated with J (and Kelly - not shown - he takes the pictures) at one of her favorite Milwaukee restaurants, Elsa's. Be sure to try it when you visit Milwaukee - their specialty burgers are delicious - just bring someone with you to share it with. Anothe great restaurant was Sauce. Milwaukee is a fun vibrant place to spend time!

This mural of Milwaukee is in the waiting area for the Lake Express high speed ferry. The ferry was a fast and easy way to travel to Milwaukee. And back home across Lake Michigan.