Ocho Rios Orchid Society's colourful bounty

Carl Gilchrist, Gleaner Writer

Dubbed Jamaica's Bounty, the Ocho Rios Orchid Society's annual flower show at Sans Souci Resort on Sunday was dedicated to the memory of founding member and past president Sharon Battaglia who passed away last May.

Her husband, the hotel's general manager, Pierre Battaglia, had an award presented in his late wife's honour to the person with the best plant in the phalaenopsis category, her favourite plant. This award went to Vasantha Wade.

In l992, Mrs Battaglia, along with Pam Chong, Giusy Maffessanti, Cindy Stannard and Dolores Force, formed what is now known as the Ocho Rios Orchid Society. The society grew and successfully hosted several shows across the parishes of St Ann and St Mary. Up until her passing, she filled several posts in the organisation, including president, vice-president and secretary.

The society's adventures were not limited to Jamaica, as they organised trips to purchase plants from Thailand, Hawaii, Singapore, Malaysia, Panama and Florida.

From all indications, the recent showcase was a success, with colourful floral displays at every turn, craft items, live music, food and a cultural presentation by Exchange All-Age. There was also a fashion show featuring designs by Paula Hurlock (Indigo Soul) using Makeda Solomon, Jenna Gregory, Ocean Brent-Harris and the fabulous Eva Myers as her runway models. For the auto lovers, there were also various classic cars on display for all to peruse.

One society member that was please about the turnout was Andrea Davidson, who told Outlook, "We're pleased with the turnout. "This year, we also have the classic cars of Jamaica here with us on display, which makes it an even more family-oriented event," she ended.

The event also featured a special gate prize - a weekend for two at Couples Sans Souci.

The event attracted orchid lovers from all across Jamaica. Janell Panton was part of a team of eight from the Montego Bay Orchid Club who came to exhibit their plants. Other members from across the island also came to enjoy the show. According to Panton, "This is my first time and it was very exciting for me because I also participated in the judging activities. "For our club, it was good. We got several prizes and the plants are beautiful, so even if we didn't win, we wouldn't have wasted our time," she stated.

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