On February 17, 2024, 15 judges, 2 students, 2 clerks, and a visiting student from Alamo Judging center convened at First Christian Church, where we have our HOS meetings. We welcomed our newest clerk, Dr. Kent Gifford, and applauded his willingness to help. Jay Balchan, AOS President, joined us during our morning discussions.
Twelve plants were brought in by exhibitors, and five awards were granted to four plants. One plant received two awards. Eight other plants were reviewed at a table and rejected.
Award summaries follow:
Clowesia Jumbo York ‘Rare Earth Orchids’, AM/AOS 83 pts, exhibited by Stephen Moffitt
Thirteen cream-yellow flowers on one pendant inflorescence. When I saw this displayed, I smelled an award right away. It was beautiful in its simplicity.
Paphiopedilum Bel Royal ‘My Immortal’, AM/AOS 85 pts, exhibited by Rick Hepler
This stately progeny of Paph. rothschildianum boasted 6 flowers of unusual size. Specimen.
Clowesia Elizabeth Anne Gallagher ‘Danielle Anastasia’, AM/AOS 85 pts, exhibited by Stephen Gallagher
Twelve beautiful flowers on a pendant inflorescence. The large pink spotted maroon flowers were almost as beautiful as the plant’s namesake.
Dendrobium Remy Hartmann ‘Always Blooming’, AM/AOS 84 pts, exhibited by Malcolm McCorquodale
This plant was described as 139 white flowers and 96 buds on 33 inflorescences, overlaid magenta. You had to see this helter skelter array of color. Flowers everywhere. And it received a CCM award (20244105) of 89 pts for its cultural prowess. Congrats, Malcolm.
It’s always exciting to see quality plants come into judging. Remember, your plants won’t get an award sitting at home. Bring them!
