Allender says Iris Show in danger of ending

By Brooks Taylor, Mt. Pleasant News

Sheila Allender fears that a staple in Mt. Pleasant?s spring may be going by the wayside.

For over 60 years, the Mt. Pleasant Woman?s Club has been hosting an Iris Show, capitalizing on the city?s motto ? The Iris City.

Allender, president of the woman?s club, said Saturday that the club may have hosted its last show, which was in conjunction with the Mt. Pleasant Farmers Market at McMillan Park.

?This may be our last show,? Allender lamented as she looked over the score of entries in this year?s event. ?I want to continue the show but can?t do it myself. We hope to generate some interest either inside or outside the club to keep it going.?

For many years, Janet Roederer and Joyce Dennison spearheaded the event but as people gracefully age, they tend to relinquish some responsibilities, Allender said.

A lot of work goes into organizing the annual show, Allender said. ?There is a lot of work behind the scenes and over the years, we have made it into a floral variety show, just in case the irises aren?t ready.

Jeanie Seberg, of Mt. Pleasant, was the big winner in this year?s show, notching the grand championship and Best of Show. Marilyn Holmes, Ft. Madison, had the best arrangement, and Janet Young, Mt. Pleasant, won the People?s Choice award.

Allender said she would take all comers to help keep the show going. If interested, call Allender at 931-1637.