December 4 Meeting Recap
Members Enjoyed Potluck and a Fun Orchid Auction
Camaraderie and friendly competition were the prevailing spirit at the annual Houston Orchid Society holiday party on Thursday, December 4. More than 60 members enjoyed a grand buffet of barbecue, Mediterranean goodies donated by Tim Young, and a wide assortment of home-made treats.
After dinner, President-elect Sarah Bentley recognized new members and guests, and installed the 2026 officers and board members:
President — Sarah Bentley
VP Speakers — Darie Souvorova
VP Membership — Ken Whitmire
VP Shows — Jean Schwenke
Treasurer — Winnie Yap
Recording Secretary — Donna Diggons
Amy Colville — 2026
Holly Miller — 2026
Rick Hepler — 2026–27
Tim Young — 2026–27
Malcolm McCorquodale — 2026
Kar Chong — 2026
Derek Lowenstein — 2026
A sad announcement was made that 2025 President and life member Don Ghiz was unable to attend because of cancer treatment. The welcome table featured a message from Don, and members were invited to sign cards to send to him.
In other news, the scheduled 2026 Show & Sale has been canceled because of a lack of available space. Galveston Bay Orchid Society, however, will host a show on Mother’s Day weekend, and HOS members are encouraged to exhibit.
Finally, an enthusiastic audience commenced bidding on orchid books, artworks, and plants, as long-time member and senior judge Greg Scott described each item and orchid, showing photos that had been generated by Daria Souvorova. After fees and expenses, the Houston Judging Center netted about $2,300 to support its important work recognizing and rewarding value in all aspects of orchids.