Chrysanthemum Show extended to 2 days

LONG BEACH - The Earl Burns Miller Japanese Garden at Cal State Long Beach will host its annual Chrysanthemum Show, but this year it will be a two-day event set for Oct. 31 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. and Nov. 1 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.Chrysanthemum blooms from the nationally juried Chrysanthemum Society of Orange County Show will be on display, and a wide variety of the flowers including cut and potted mums will be available for purchase. In addition, the Chrysanthemum Show will feature an introduction to two other Japanese activities that guests can participate in. On Oct. 31, the garden will present an introduction to the art of sumi-e, traditional Japanese ink painting, by professional sumi-e artist Tomoko Uehara. "Painting can be a daunting undertaking if attempted alone," noted Alison Redfoot, assistant director for education at the Japanese Garden. "Under the gentle, step-by-step instruction of Mrs. Uehara, however, all guests will find the medium accessible and enjoyable." On Nov. 1, guest can experience the art of tea ceremony presented by Madam Numano and the Urasenke School of Tea. Visitors may enjoy viewing a formal tea ceremony performed in the Tea House or enjoy their own cup of powdered tea and traditional Japanese treat on the willow terrace in the open air. "Visitors to the Japanese Garden frequently express their desire to experience the formal tea ceremony in our garden. On November 1, guests will have the opportunity to do so as well as meet Numano sensei; a well-respected and nationally renowned tea master," Redfoot said. "Nearly 30 years ago, when the Japanese Garden was dedicated, Mrs. Numano was one of the tea presenters. Today, she is an expert who has taught thousands of Southern Californians the way of tea." The Japanese Garden is located on Earl Warren Drive, directly across from Lot 16 on the CSULB campus. No RSVP is required. Admission to the event is $7 for adults, $6 for seniors and $5 for Japanese Garden members. Children 12 and under are free. For more information, call (562) 985-8420.

********** Published: October 23, 2009 - Volume 8 - Issue 27