President's Letter

October 2024

We first want to thank the Audit Committee, Mike Lysy, Lori McDermott and Sheila Nathanson. They were invaluable to do the required audit of the great work Janet Greenberg does for the OSWP as our treasurer. And

thanks to the OSWP Board, who came early and had one of our required Board Meetings. Thank you all!

A review and approval of a proposed budget for our current fiscal year was the primary order of business at the Board Meeting. We felt that it was necessary to reduce the load on new Show Chairs as much as possible. The budget proposed to the Board was created to be balanced but live without the net income of a few show aspects that did not affect the primary purpose of the show. These aspects added much work to the Show Chairs. We felt we were successful at this, and after the review so did the board. A summary copy of this approved budget is being distributed to the OSWP membership before the Regular October Meeting for a final approval vote by members.

For those who missed it, at the September meeting, Zander Morrison presented a mini-class on orchid names and Wade Hollenbach presented his informative talk on warm growing masdevallias. Our meetings provide such a great opportunity to learn more about orchids, buy a few orchids, make orchid friends and have some treats as well. We are looking forward to seeing you at our next meeting, Sunday, October 20th. The Spartan Center opens at 12:30, mini-class at 1PM and meeting at 2PM (or thereabouts).

The Spartan Center in Hazelwood can be accessed off the Parkway East at the Squirrel Hill or Oakland exits or off the Boulevard of the Allies via Parkview to Swinburne to Greenfield Avenue. Southwest Pittsburgher probably know lots of ways via 885 to Second Avenue. There is parking in lots and on the street, always available. Consider joining us October 20th for wonderful speakers on Neofinetia falcatas and disas, orchid sales plus camaraderie and treats.

Happy Growing and Think Orchids,

Gary VanGelder and Demetria Marsh