We had a bit of competition at this month’s meeting as we had to share our space with a large group of fireworks vendors. We were put in a smaller partitioned area that did little to muffle the sounds from the other side. Still, it was a very enjoyable (and delicious) meeting.

Maynard’s treasury report noted that this year’s Yard Sale was as profitable as ever – even though Sunday was rained out!

The Fresno Club (www.fresnocss.org) has invited everyone to attend their Show and Sale coming up on the 19th and 20th at the Manchester center in Fresno.

Also, the Central Coast Cactus & Succulent Society is having their First Show & Sale May 26-27.

Mary Carrisalez’s presentation, “Cooking With Cactus” began with a wide assortment of prepared cactus dishes that we all got to sample. She then showed us how to clean a paddle (pad of a prickly pear) by scraping the pad with a sharp knife, removing the prickles (glochids). The edge of the pad was cut all around and it was put into a very hot skillet to cook. The finished product was actually quite good.

The meeting ended with a spirited raffle featuring a fresh batch of plants that Jerry picked up at Nick Wilkinson’s Nursery in Cambria.