The Long Island Bonsai Society
There are no borders in Bonsai. It brings peace to a palace as it does to the most humble of homes, to the young as to the old, to the rich as to the poor.
It invites us to live within the world it is onto itself, and we are drawn, as no words can express, to live within its shade.
The Long Island Bonsai Society invites all to enjoy this living art that can last for generations.
LONG ISLAND BONSAI SOCIETY NEWS
Honoring Jim Stopfer, Co-Founder of LIBS
The Long Island Bonsai Society is deeply saddened by the recent passing of Jim Stopfer, whose passion, leadership, and dedication shaped the very core of our Club.
As a founding member in the 1980s, Jim was instrumental in designing the club organizational structure that we continue to rely on today. For decades, he served on the Board of Directors in numerous leadership roles, dedicating the majority of that time to keeping our Club thriving as our long-term Treasurer. While some of our newer members may not have had the privilege of meeting Jim—as he had been unable to attend meetings since the COVID-19 pandemic—his legacy is woven into everything we do.
Jim was an avid bonsai enthusiast with a vast personal collection, and LIBS was truly his passion. He dedicated his time to teaching, delivering informative lectures at the start of club meetings, writing educational articles, and leading hands-on workshops for beginners. From managing day-to-day operations to serving as a club auctioneer, Jim poured his heart into our Club.
His commitment to LIBS was beautifully matched by his 75-year marriage to his wife, Francine. Together, they were a formidable team. A Korean War veteran, Jim worked alongside Francine to coordinate and schedule visiting bonsai artists for club demonstrations, regularly opening up their own home to graciously host them.
The Long Island Bonsai Society would simply not be the vibrant community it is today without the lifelong dedication of Jim Stopfer. We owe him an immeasurable debt of gratitude. Our deepest condolences go out to Francine, their family, and everyone who had the honor of calling Jim a mentor and a friend.
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LIBS Meeting November 2nd 7:30 PM
Mauro Stemberger demo
Join us for an exceptional opportunity to witness the artistry of Mauro Stemberger, an internationally renowned bonsai artist! With a wealth of experience gained from training and collaborating with esteemed bonsai professionals from around the globe, Mauro has truly made a name for himself in the bonsai community. His accolades are countless, and you'll often find articles about him featured in various bonsai magazines. Mauro has graciously conducted several demonstrations and workshops for our Club in the past, but due to his busy schedule. This is a meeting you won’t want to miss, as he brings not only his incredible talent but also a wealth of knowledge about the art of bonsai. You can learn more about Mauro and his incredible bonsai garden by visiting his website: [http://www.italianbonsaidream.com]. Be sure to mark your calendars for this special event—it's guaranteed to inspire and enrich your bonsai journey! We can’t wait to see you there!
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LIBS Meeting November 5th 7:30 PM
Kaya Mooney Demo
(Conference Room)
Kaya Mooney is a talented young bonsai artist from the United States, who has dedicated himself to the art of bonsai through a rigorous five-year apprenticeship under the esteemed Master Keichii Fujikawa at Fujikawa Kouka-en in Osaka, Japan. His commitment and skill in the craft have earned him certification from the Nippon Bonsai Association. Kaya was in Northern California, where he had the privilege to work alongside the renowned Boon Manakitivipart. Today, he has established himself as a professional artist and educator, specializing in traditional Japanese bonsai techniques. His expertise particularly shines in the styling, refining, and cultivation of shohin and mame bonsai, with a deep knowledge of both Japanese conifers and deciduous species. For those interested in learning more about Kaya’s work, you can visit his website at https://moonlightbonsai.wordpress.com/ or check out his Instagram page at https://www.instagram.com/moonlightbonsai/?hl=en. Discover the beauty of bonsai through his artistry at this meeting!
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SOIL PURCHASE
LIBS MEMBERS ONLY
Pay by cash or check. Online ordering available with pickup at Planting Fields.
Please take advantage of this opportunity while supplies last. For online ordering press soil button
THIS IS FOR MEMBERS ONLY.
Become a member to take advantage
of this great opportunity.
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LIBS NEWSLETTERS
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LIBS LIBRARY
We have updated our library and all available books and DVDs are listed on the library page. Members can borrow up to two items for a one month period at our regular meetings at Planting Fields.
See Mary if interested.
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Stewardship Program
The LIBS is starting this program for our members. Senior citizen members, who are having difficulty maintaining their bonsai, can send a request to libonsai@yahoo.com and ask for assistance. Members having difficulties and issues with their trees can also contact us. The Club will do its best to help you.
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Looking to Downsize Your Collection?
If you are thinking about reducing the number of trees and/or pots in your bonsai collection, contact the Long Island Bonsai Society at libonsai@yahoo.com and find out the options LIBS offers.
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EMAILS
If you are not receiving occasional emails from the club please send an email to libonsai@yahoo.com so we can figure out why and correct the problem.
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Any questions, send an email to libonsai@yahoo.com.
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MEMBERSHIP DUES
2026 Rates
$50.00 - Individual
$75.00 - Supporter
See Joe, LIBS Treasurer, at any of our upcoming meetings to join. Make your check payable to Long Island Bonsai Society. Rates posted above.
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In case of bad weather throughout the year, please check here to see if the monthly meeting, workshop and/or auction will be held or cancelled.
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For more information, pictures and updates, please visit Long Island Bonsai Society on Facebook.
