The show must go on, and it did despite the heavy rains for much of the weekend. The first American Orchid Society sanctioned show presented by Orchid Awareness Inc. (OAI) was a success.
Many varieties of orchids were represented in the show in the courtyard of the Caribbean Museum Center for the Arts (CMCArts). A team of four judges worked on Friday, carefully judging each entry. Ribbons and trophies are awarded in many categories.
Plants, including Dendrobiums, Phalaenopsis, and Vandas, were available to purchase. Members of OAI were eager to assist both novices and experienced orchid growers with questions and educational materials.
A raffle for a large, brightly colored painting by Gene Rotter was held on Sunday. Originally from Cuba, then NYC, he has resided in St. Croix for six years. Gene has been painting orchids and other flowers since childhood.
OAI plans to make this an annual event to encourage increased participation in orchid propagation on St. Croix. The group meets on the third Saturday of the month at CMCArts at 10 a.m. Membership is $40 per year. They can be contacted at orchidawarenessvi@gmail.com. The webpage is www.orchidawarenessvi.com.