http://www.ottawahort.org
Highlights 1996
Yearbook 1997 page 5 By: Alan Ritchie Back to the web versionThe 1995 end of year Awards Banquet was a great success, with excellent food provided by members. We were lucky to have a very special guest on hand to make the official awards presentations. Sandy Cavaye, himself an Honorary Life Member of the Society, also had the pleasure of bestowing this distinction upon Arlene Gustafson, Virginia Peck and her husband Dr. Oswald Peck. It was a touching moment as we paid tribute to three "pillars" of the Society to whom we owe much gratitude for their devotion to the OHS over the years.
As well, Elizabeth and Cyril Culley were at the head table, to officially present the two trophies that they have so generously donated to the Society. It was truly an evening to remember, steeped in history and tradition.
1996 saw a host of excellent speakers at the Society's meetings, covering conventional topics such as seed starting, daylilies, pruning and container gardening. As well, there were fascinating topics such as David Austen Roses, Japanese gardens and statuary (beyond flamingos!). Meetings were well attended again this year, with much of the credit going to Marcelle Story and her Program Committee.
The Society's flower shows were a great success in 1996. In general, there was a lot of plant material shown, with many exhibitors participating. The Tulip Show was a big success this past year, as the OHS and the Nepean Horticultural Society held a combined show at the Neatby Building.
Eight members of the Society volunteered their gardens for the 1996 members garden tour. On a lovely weekend, approximately 70 members visited these gardens. Some stops were so enjoyable that a number of members were not able to see all of the gardens in one day. The popularity of this event is increasing every year - hope to see your garden on the tour next year.
As in other years, at the Plant Auction, auctioneer Marilyn Light displayed her uncanny ability to extract surprising prices for (in some cases) fairly "prolific plants"! As well as raising money for the Society, a good time was had by all.
A bus trip was organized to Orono, Ontario to visit the "We're in the Hayfields Now" daylily nursery, operated by Doug Lycett and Henry Lorrain who were the speakers at our April meeting. The outing was enjoyed by all those who participated.
Following the loss of much of the Society's inventory, new tablecloths were made through the hard work of Callie Basham. A vote of thanks from all of us goes to Callie. As well, the Board of Directors approved the purchase of five new pedestals for the use of the decorative exhibitors at the 1997 shows.
The Society's library has benefited from a memorial left to the Society by Audrey Tweedie. It was decided by the Board that, given Audrey's past work in the library, the interest derived from her trust will be used to purchase books. Donations from individuals have also expanded the library's collection greatly over the past few years.
In 1996, the Society saw the "passing of the torch" from it's longtime Treasurer, Herb Cheesman, to Sandy Ives. Many thanks to Herb for his years of faithful service, and all the best to Sandy with his new duties. Sandy - you've got big shoes to fill!
Looking forward to a successful 105th year.
Please contact the OHS or the author if you wish to republish these articles.