My first AOS award 77 points HCC/AOS

Encyclia Cochleata Alba "Napa Valley" HCC/AOS

As a member of the San Francisco Orchid Society I look forward to their first Tuesday monthly meetings, especially the show and tell table. For the October table I brought five plants. My giant blue vanda with 10 six-inch flowers and the longest, prettiest roots I've ever seen. Two miltonia Spectabulis, one was the alba (white) form, A paloric phal with a Siamese twin flower, and my encyclia Cochleata alba. I especially enjoy collecting orchids that are variegated, alba, paloric or just plain freaky. Anna Chai, a superb grower from Belmont, spotted my encyclia and suggested that I enter the plant for AOS judging that night. She pointed out several reasons why it was an outstanding plant. What a thrill when the judge came back in carrying my plant he announced that the plant had earned 77 points for a H.C.C. (Highly Commended Certificate) from the American Orchid Society. As he scanned the paper for the name of the grower, I just about came out of my chair as I waved my arms and shouted, "It's me, it's me!" I give great thanks to Anna Chai for her encouragement and support. My encyclia was measured, flowers and buds counted and photographed for publication in the next AOS Awards Quarterly magazine. As a previously un-awarded clone it was my honor to name my plant so the official name is now Encyclia Cochleata Alba "Napa Valley" HCC/AOS. Thank you, thank you, thank you very much!