The Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew (RBG Kew) marks its 250th birthday this year. Long considered a mecca for orchid scholars, the Gardens were founded in 1759 by Princess Augusta, the mother of George III. Tropical Extravaganza is the first festival in a year of events celebrating RBG Kew's 250th anniversary.

The Fort Lauderdale Orchid Show has come a long way since it was first held in February 1957 in the lobby of the Atlantic Federal Savings and Loan building, with only members participating. The international recognition of the show has resulted in the Fort Lauderdale Orchid Society being named co-host of the 19th World Orchid Conference that was held in January 2008 in Miami. Today, the Fort Lauderdale Orchid Show is one of the largest in the United States.

If you’re like me, the past 12 months have been spent mostly reading Orchids magazine, at my computer, mainly on the AOS’s Web site (www.aos.org), and of course, tending to my orchids. Orchids magazine and the AOS Web site are two informative resources for passionate hobbyists, and all three of the aforementioned activities are great ways to relieve stress. I know that orchids mean different things to different folks.

December 23, 1930 - Mamaroneck, New York
Stewart Everson was doubly upset this afternoon. Not only was he being tested with an insurmountable problem, but he had been requested to stay at work until he solved it. This close to Christmas, extra hours were not in Stewart's plans. He had hoped to leave work a few minutes early and stop by the sweet shop to pick up a few goodies for his family's holiday celebration. Stewart was the assistant clerk in charge of store display at Healey Mercantile...

2009 promises to be an exciting year as we look to continue our efforts supporting our mission of conservation, education and research through the implementation of the AOS new strategic plan. As you prepare to make your year-end contributions, we appreciate your continued confidence in the American Orchid Society as we embrace the goals for 2009.

Not sure what gift to get for that special orchidist on your list? Get them a book! The thing that orchid growers like best next to orchids is books. A book is a perfect gift that lasts forever and continually reminds the recipient of the gift giver. Books provide answers and inspiration.