Past President Sarah Bentley Anticipates August

Hello HOS! I know the past couple of weeks have been devastating after Beryl blew through. I’m looking forward to next month, which kicks off with our meeting on August 1. The August meeting is important because it is the introductory event to the annual workshop on Saturday, August 3.

The topic for the workshop is “The Future of Paphiopedilum Orchids.” This particular genus has been difficult for me to grow because I seem to miss caring for it at critical times—that is to say, they always die on me. I’m anticipating an education on how to grow this lovely plant, because I finally have one specimen which I have not killed for nearly a year (see picture). The other orchid plant in the picture is my little species Phalaenopsis, and you can see it has a bloom spike! So I have double orchid anticipation for August.

In addition to HOS’ regular members, there are usually new members, people from the general public, and visitors from other orchid societies who attend the August workshop.

As the past president and chair of the welcome table at meetings, I am working to get our name badge ordering system back on track. Name badges fulfill a vital role because club members are easily identified to welcome new members and visitors.

If you do not have a name badge, please click this link to place your order. If you place your order on or before July 30, I will deliver it to you at the August meeting.

—Sarah Bentley