Bonsai is back at local Natural History Museum JOHNSON CITY – The 7th Annual Mid-Appalachian Bonsai Kai Invitational Bonsai Exhibit will once again be displayed at the East Tennessee State University and General Shale Brick Natural History Museum and Visitor Center at the Gray Fossil Site. The exhibition will be shown for two days only- Saturday and Sunday, Sept. 10-11, from 8:30 a.m. – 5 p.m. On Saturday, Sept. 10, at 2 p.m., National Bonsai Master Warren Hill will demonstrate bonsai styling on a Hinoki cypress, owned by Gary Andes. Hill is a former curator for the United States Bonsai Collection and currently teaches at Tree-Haven School of Bonsai near Greeneville, TN. Hill’s lifelong study of bonsai and his enthusiasm for the art make him an excellent presenter and judge for this year’s exhibition. Hill will critique and present awards on Sunday, Sept. 11. Awards include “Best in Show,” “Best Shohin” (small), “Best Chuuhin” (medium), “Best Ogata” (large), and a number of honorable mentions. Visitors to the gallery will also have the opportunity to vote for their favorite tree to win the “People’s Choice” Award. Essential bonsai supplies, trees, and pottery will be offered by vendors for those that wish to begin the hobby of a lifetime. A silent auction that includes various bonsai and garden-related items will be held during the exhibit and will close on Sunday at 2 p.m. Proceeds will benefit the Mid-Appalachian Bonsai Kai, and all winners must be present. The museum is located 1.8 miles from exit 13 on Interstate 26. Hours are 8:30 a.m.- 5 p.m. seven days a week. For more information, or special assistance for those with disabilities, call toll free (866) 202-6223 or visit www.grayfossilmuseum.com. Additional information on the exhibit or local bonsai groups is available by contacting Dr. Karl Joplin, ETSU associate professor of biological sciences, at (423) 439-6921 or joplin@etsu.edu.