Susan Carpentier, an always-energic HSCSS volunteer, was presented with the 2021 Martin Schweig Appreciation Award during the society’s holiday party in December. This award is given to members who give their time and energy to the club without asking for any recognition or acknowledgement. …
The current outbreak of the Omicron coronavirus variant has delayed the planned return to in-person activities for the Henry Shaw Cactus and Succulent Society, but club leaders are still doing their best to bring entertaining and informative programs to members and friends from other Midwest clubs. “We will continue to transmit via Zoom all meetings like we have in the past …”
After a long hiatus due to COVID-19, HSCSS monthly meetings will return as in-person events at a new venue beginning in January 2022. “Henry Shaw Cactus and Succulent Society is especially grateful to Jerry Jost for allowing us to use his warehouse for our meetings,” Ralph Olliges said. “By using the large space, we will be able to spread out and hopefully keep our members safe.” …
After a survey of members during the September Zoom meeting, results supported an in-person event for the club’s Winter Holiday Party. On Dec. 12 at The Heights in Richmond Heights, members can join in auctions, a raffle, attendance prizes and a game or two. However, no food can be served or brought to the event, and masks must be worn at all times. Please RSVP by Nov. 15 to cuervo28@swbell.net or 314-409-1897.
By Rita Taylor – I was so sorry to hear of the passing of my friend, my cactus and succulent buddy, Charmaine, this past May. At 93 years old, she was amazingly active. Besides taking great care of her plants, she had a fish pond and kept up her own home. I will miss hearing Charmaine’s thoughts on the world. I’ll also miss her at meetings, occasionally saying loudly, “I can’t hear what they’re saying, can you?” …
By Mike Hellmann – At the July Zoom meeting, we’ll once again be bringing back the plants that we always enjoyed when we were able to meet in person. Of course, their presence will be virtual, but we’ll at least be able to share our plants and growing experiences with other members. Immediately after Judy Pigue’s program, we’ll begin an open discussion on any plants that are brought to the screen. …
The 2021 HSCSS T-shirts are now in hand. If you live in the St. Louis area, the shirts will be available for pick-up soon. We will notify you of the date and place when that information becomes available. If you live outside the St. Louis area and need to have shirts mailed to you, please do the following: …
By Mike Hellmann – After Julie Drummond’s call making me aware of the Feb. 17 passing of her mother, Gladys, I immediately began reflecting on just how big an impact Gladys and her family has had over the years on both our society and our hobby. Gladys Drummond’s legacies will be many, but for me, personally, the success of our society and the appreciation that I have for these wonderful plants are due to her efforts and inspiration. …