Letter from the President,
Diane Kent

February, 2007

I am writing this just before Christmas, and somehow the timing seems so very appropriate. A time of reflection for the previous year, but most importantly, a time of renewal and hope for the future. It is a time when we are making plans, and wishing on stars. A time when all things seem possible, and the most exciting gifts are waiting to be unwrapped. It is also a time when the OHA is planning for the coming year; setting up the walks, fairs, events and seminars that you have come to expect. I confess, it is also a time when the Board does it’s own share of dreaming unlikely dreams.

There are so many wonderful things we would like to accomplish. Some of these are already listed on the volunteer area of our web site. Some still exist only in our imaginations. All of them depend on you if they are to succeed and bear the fruits we hope for.

The tasks range from small to large; from a couple of hours of your time, to some very major projects. We always need people to help out at the OHA booths at various events, and the annual Harbourfront Herb Fair needs many hands and hearts to make it such a spectacular day.

If you are unable to commit a specific block of time, them please consider if you can help the OHA to grow. A pdf version of our general membership brochure is available on our web site, or we will be happy to mail you some. Display them at your work, place them in the local health food store, your school, even at your chiropractor or dentist. Think about your gift list: An OHA membership is the perfect gift for the herbal or gardening enthusiast.

The OHA exists to serve our herbal community, but it depends entirely on volunteers to achieve these goals. If each member could give just a small amount of time, we would be able to move mountains.

By the time you read this, we will be in the middle of the winter. Everything will have slowed down, and deep beneath the snow and earth, this year's plants and plans are patiently waiting. Please take some of this precious time to learn about the opportunities for networking with herbal enthusiasts in your area, browse our web site, and decide if you can spare a little of yourself to help us grow this year.

To volunteer your time or expertise, to make suggestions or ask questions, please contact us at 1-877-642-4372 (locally 416-236-0090), or e-mail us at info@herbalists.on.ca. A volunteer will be happy to get back to you.
The material contained on this web site is intended for educational purposes only and no responsibility is assumed for misadventure resulting from the misuse of botanical preparations. If you have a health problem, you should consult a qualified medical doctor for diagnosis. Herbal treatment should be undertaken only with the advice of a qualified herbal practitioner. Self medication may be dangerous or ineffective.

General membership in the Ontario Herbalists Association is open to any herbal enthusiast, and does not imply any fitness to practise herbal medicine. The OHA only supports those members who have met or exceeded the requirements for professional membership, who have been approved, and whose membership is in good standing.