Our speaker on Valentine’s Day is George Vasquez, one of the
country’s experts on the cultivation and distribution of orchids.
Over the past 30 years, he
and his father, Amado, have developed Malibu’s Zuma Canyon Orchids into one of
the premier orchid houses in the country, certainly the most highly respected on
the West Coast for phalaenopsis hybrids, commonly known as moth orchids.
George is one of the 400 persons who are deemed qualified to be a judge
of American Orchid Society events. At
Zuma Canyon, George and his staff have developed nearly 5,000 hybrids listed in
the Royal Horticultural Society in a rainbow of colors for the phalaenopsis
species. Likely, if you have purchased moth orchids, you have
purchased a Zuma Canyon moth orchid or one of its offspring.
George will speak to us on the history, cultivation and business of how
these beautiful plants which he will have on display have become a part of our
lives.
A significant number of Zuma’s best specimens will be made available to our members. An anonymous donor has purchased all of the orchids which will be on display, and given them to the Club for the purpose of a SILENT AUCTION to be held before and immediately after Mr. Vasquez' presentation. Bidders will enter their bid on a form in front of the particular specimen, and bidding will be terminated promptly before 1:45 PM. (No inspection, milling around or bidding during the program, of course). Your successful bid for a beautiful specimen orchid(s) should be largely tax deductible. Payment can be made by check or billed to you by the Club. Bring your orchid loving "other." and come prepared. This is a one time only opportunity to purchase your Valentine’s gift and make a contribution to our Club’s charitable activities at the same time!.