Canada was at its best during the Canadian Tulip Festival, Tulip Explosion and the World Flower Council 23rd Summit. All convened in Ottawa/Gatineau, Canada from May 17 May 22, 2006.
Florists and members from 15 countries attended this prestigious event. Mrs. Puretta Wilkin President of the St.Kitts Flower Arrangers Association, member and first time attendee Mrs. Jovil Rogers along with Mrs. Dulcie Richardson all attended one of the most prestigious floral events in the world.
The occasion featured a demonstration and display segment in which Mrs. Wilkin ably assisted by Mrs. Richardson were spectacular and given much praise for there designs, "Northern Lights," and "Dream Catcher," both Aboriginal concepts of early day settlers and Native Americans, whose home was the provinces of North Eastern Canada. The Wabano group of Native Americans performed dances, rituals, smoke signals, built teepees and used Native American music for the background.
Puretta's feature arrangement was so impressive that it was featured in a prominent display area at the world class event.
Puretta and Dulcie also ensured that the culture of St.Kitts-Nevis was prominently featured boasting and donning the national dress , carried the federation's flag while presenting there interpretive head piece design.
There was also a Parade of Flags with most attendees in native costume including the Kittitians attendees Mrs. Wilkin and Richardson.
~~Adz:Left~~The Flotilla was another delight for Puretta, who worked through quite a bit of rain to design and aid in the decoaration of one of 31 boats, which were beautifully designed with fresh flowers, banners and flags and were in a formal flotilla on the Rideau Canal for thousands of spectators to view and enjoy.
The Ladies were also treated to breakfast at the US Embassy in Ottawa as well as a fabulously elegant and spectacular dinner hosted at the brand new Ottawa City hall by Mayor Bob Chiarelli and also an equally elegant and spectacular reception hosted by the Mayor of Gatineu Mr. Marc Bureau at the Gatineu museum .
There was time for Education Sessions and Puretta, Dulcie and Jovil were certified in four hour classes of "Demonstrating in High Style," and "Judging all the right elements," taught by Master Florist and Teacher, Mr. Malcolm Angus of New Zealand.
Following the Summit, a bus load of members including the kittitians embarked on a five day Quebec tour -- the French province of Canada. Quebec City, the St. Lawrence River, Montreal and Montebello were all highlights of this fabulous outing.
The Flower Arrangers Association expresses heartfelt appreciation to the Embassy of the Republic of China on Taiwan and First Caribbean International Bank for there generous support and assistance.
Next year, World Flower Council will convene in Nice, France, in September, 2007
