president's message

July 2018

Hello all and happy summer!

I must start by saying … wow, wow, wow!! What an absolutely fantastic auction this year! Thanks so very much to the many OSSC member volunteers who worked with true dedication to make it a success. So much goes on behind the scenes to put on a successful auction and the team work of our society brings me joy! Many thanks go out as well to our generous orchid donors – the professional orchid growers and members alike. Please scroll through the ads in this newsletter and give a hearty thanks to the contributing vendors if you go for a visit. We had a high level of attendance and over 200 orchids were auctioned off by the ever fabulous Doug Overstreet. We’re so appreciative of the crucial funding gained through the auction, which allows us to continue to thrive and share the love of orchids. I hope you all took home some exciting new plants, I know I did!

Did you make it out to the Andy’s Orchids or Sunset Valley Orchids summer open houses? Many of our members made field trips. If you missed out, fear not! July is the time to head North to Santa Barbara for the Santa Barbara Orchid Estate and Cal Orchid open houses. If you are able to make it out on the Saturday, don’t miss the Neofinetia show/judging at Cal Orchid! Our own VP Carol Beule often wins an award for one of her amazing Neos.

If you’re looking for a special event closer to home, check out the upcoming International Phalaenopsis Symposium at the Huntington Gardens. The opening Friday evening falls on 2nd VP Donna Ballard’s birthday and many of us will be attending to celebrate together! Check the calendar for all field trip opportunity details. Lastly, as a reminder, we will not have a meeting in August as so many members are historically on vacation but … stay tuned as we may have a special weekend day field trip for anyone interested. Details to come! Stay cool and happy Independence Day to you all!

Erin Maxick

erin’s fun fact:

Ever wonder about the most expensive orchid ever sold at auction? According to the Deccan Chronicle, in an article published in 2017, it was the Shenzhen Nongke Orchid.

“While orchids have always been considered to be a mark of luxury, the Shenzhen Nongke Orchid, which was perfected over a period of eight years is meant for the crème-de-la-crème. This purple and yellow blossom is the most expensive flower to have been sold at an auction, at approximately $202,000. Its price is not just for its rarity and the difficult process of cultivation, but also its atypical mix of colors. For those who are adventurous foodies, the orchid is also said to have its own delicate taste.”

Now that’s a high bid!!