1st time orchid society Pres. and I want to rejuvenate my society. Recommendations?

[PaphMadMan]

In my experience the biggest problem with orchid societies (and most other clubs etc., perhaps civilization in general) is long term members who no longer contribute much but ruthlessly criticize all efforts by those who do. If no one is coming up with new ideas it is because they have already been shot down too often. Praise those who make an effort, and tell all others to shut up. That's really all most groups need to thrive.

[cb977]

Originally Posted by PaphMadMan

In my experience the biggest problem with orchid societies (and most other clubs etc., perhaps civilization in general) is long term members who no longer contribute much but ruthlessly criticize all efforts by those who do. If no one is coming up with new ideas it is because they have already been shot down too often. Praise those who make an effort, and tell all others to shut up. That's really all most groups need to thrive.

Except for telling them all to shut up, I'd have to agree.

It's very frustrating when the newer members make great suggestions to help the club move forward but nothing gets done because the "older" (and I don't mean age, I mean how long they've been in the club) folks say NO and it's done

I left one club because of my frustration with this but have much higher hopes for the club I joined a few months ago. I've spoken to lots of folks and it seems that this is a problem for any club, no matter the subject.

I've found that the things I'm impressed with in the new club are: the meetings are organized with an itinerary that is followed to the letter rather than one that is disorganized. When we went to the first meeting as a guest we were given a welcome packet explaining what to expect and what needs to be done as a member. There are wonderful speakers each month with an actual presentation from which we LEARN things and not just slide shows of pretty orchids.

Just try to enjoy the experience and not allow people and their quirks get you frustrated. Once you're not enjoying it anymore, it really sucks the life out of you

[quiltergal]

2 things come to my mind. I've only been a member of my local society for about a year. I attended 4 meetings as a guest before I decided to join. I almost didn't join because no one in the group was very welcoming. So be friendly to the new faces that show up to meetings!

The other thing that I would love to see happen at our meetings is great guest speakers (who also bring plants to sell!). This seems to bring everyone out of the woodwork! We have had good speakers in the past, but this last year one guy did all our programs. Granted he is very knowledgeable (used to be an AOS judge), and has good information, but I'm tired of the same powerpoint presentation.

[fotofashion]

Our local society has two groups to encourage new and slightly experienced growers. One is the newcomers group and the other is the intermediate group. You have to have been a member two years to join the intermediate group. The groups meet at various places including one another's greenhouses and some nurseries (sadly Teas has closed so there goes one good meeting place). These are educational for those who have little or no experience growing orchids. The intermediate group will emphasize propagation the early part of the year. Our spring show is coming up in April. One really popular aspect of the meetings is the refreshments. Who needs supper after that.
Sounds like you have plenty of good suggestions to get you started. We all wish you success.
Beverly A.

[zygostates]

I have been reading all of your thoughts, suggestions, and opinions of what an orchid society should be..and I am grateful. Today will be my first meeting as Pres. I will admit a little nervousness about standing in front of these people I have known for over 10 years, but I feel I have some great suggestions of offer to have a better year. Please dont stop with your thoughts and suggestions...they have been very helpful!