Highlights

American Rhododendron Society Silver Medal

Congratulations to Alan Campbell, recipient of the American Rhododendron Society Silver Medal.

This prestigious honour recognizes ARS members whose sustained contributions have significantly advanced the Society, the genus Rhododendron, or both. The Silver Medal specifically acknowledges outstanding regional service and lasting impact within the rhododendron community.

Alan's dedication, leadership, and many contributions to rhododendron education and the Society make him a most deserving recipient of this distinguished award.

2026 Silver Bowl Recipient:

Joyce Rodger

Each year, the Cowichan Valley Rhododendron Society presents the Silver Bowl to recognize an outstanding member whose dedication, service, and commitment have made a lasting contribution to the Society. Selected by previous Silver Bowl recipients, the award celebrates those whose efforts help strengthen our community and support the Society's ongoing success.

The 2026 Silver Bowl recipient is Joyce Rodger.

President’s Report

Presented by President Dorothy Kennedy at the Cowichan Valley Rhododendron Society Annual General Meeting, June 2026.

As we close another successful year for the Cowichan Valley Rhododendron Society, I am pleased to report that our chapter has enjoyed a lively, productive, and sociable season, marked by excellent garden visits, strong public engagement, successful fundraising, new members, and a warm sense of fellowship.

Our plant sale was again a major success. It was profitable, well supported, and demonstrated the continuing interest in rhododendrons and companion plants in the Cowichan Valley. Thank you to everyone who contributed plants, organized, staffed the sale, welcomed visitors, and supported the event.

A highlight of the year was the Open Garden Tour at Verna Buhler’s beautiful Echoes of Nature garden. The event attracted 131 visitors, helped offset hospitality costs for the ARS Tour, and encouraged three new members to join.

The ARS Conference and Cowichan Valley Tour were also very successful, though they required considerable effort. About 50 guests visited gardens at Elisabeth Zoffmann’s home, Liz and Alan Murray’s Misty View Farm, and Verna and George’s property, where our international guests enjoyed a wonderful lunch hosted by a First Nations caterer. Thanks also to Laurie and Janice Moseley, whose garden was held in reserve, and to the many volunteer drivers who generously transported our guests.

We enjoyed several exceptional members’ garden visits this year. Thank you to Susan Stitt, Janice and Laurie Moseley, Carrie and Rick Nelson, and Verna Buhler for opening their gardens. These visits remain among the most enjoyable parts of our year, giving members the chance to learn from one another and appreciate the remarkable range of gardens within our Society.

Our social events also strengthened the chapter. The September Welcome Back Party gave members a cheerful opportunity to reconnect, while the Christmas Party at Diane Allen’s beautiful home was a warm and memorable gathering. Thank you, Diane, for your hospitality.

Our programs helped keep members engaged, among them a Zoom video night, Alan Campbell’s illustrated presentation on his favourite rhododendrons, Barrie Agar’s talk on intrepid rhododendron plant hunters, and ongoing propagation instruction from Verna Buhler and Al Murray.

Publicity and outreach were strong this year, with coverage and announcements in the Cowichan Valley Citizen, Valley Voice, and Times Colonist. Thank you to Verna, Barrie, and Alan for their submissions. We also continue to benefit from Verna’s informative monthly newsletter, whose back issues on the CVRS website remain a valuable resource. Both Facebook and our new CVRS website are drawing attention to the activities of our Chapter.

Looking ahead, there may be an opportunity for a future Cowichan Valley Voice series on rhododendron gardens, which would help showcase members’ gardens and raise the Society’s profile.

Membership was another bright spot, with 16 new members joining this year. The Society also remains on sound financial and administrative footing. The draft financial statement was circulated to members and reviewed in accordance with the Society’s bylaws. Thank you to Diane Allen for her bookkeeping support and to Chris Garland for agreeing to let his name stand as treasurer. We also acknowledge this year’s important expenditures, including new signage organized by Laurie Moseley, as well as our new website and Facebook presence, designed by Joanne Meredith and Verna Buhler.

This year marks an important transition, as Alan Campbell steps down from the executive after 24 years of service. His knowledge, experience, and commitment to CVRS and the broader ARS community have been invaluable. I am very pleased that Alan will continue sharing his knowledge through a newsletter column on ARS activities, international connections, and the Rhododendron Species Garden.

The Society’s continued success depends on members who are willing to participate, volunteer, and serve. Opportunities to assist with events and contribute to the executive help ensure that CVRS remains a vibrant and active organization. Experience is not required; a willingness to contribute and work cooperatively is what matters most.

Finally, thank you to everyone who helped make this year such a success: those who opened gardens, organized events, welcomed visitors, managed finances and communications, provided plants, attended meetings, brought food, shared ideas, and supported the Society in so many ways.

CVRS continues to thrive because of the generosity and enthusiasm of its members. Today provides an opportunity to celebrate a very good year and look ahead to the next chapter in the life of the Society.

Election of Officers and Directors:

Conducted by Carrie and Rick Nelson
Results:

President: Tricia Guiguet

Vice-President: Janice Moseley

Treasurer: Chris Garland

Secretary: Joanne Meredith

Member-at-Large: Joyce Rodger

Member-at-Large: Laurie Moseley

Member-at-Large: Bill Masson

Member-at-Large: Kathie Haire

Past-President: Dorothy Kennedy

Joyce is one of those exceptional volunteers whose contributions are woven into the fabric of the Society. A long-time member, she has generously shared her time, energy, and support in countless ways over the years. Whether helping at events, volunteering behind the scenes, assisting with projects, or stepping forward whenever help is needed, Joyce consistently contributes with enthusiasm, reliability, and kindness.

Known for her cooperative spirit and positive attitude, she approaches every task, large or small, with the same willingness to help. Her cheerful presence has encouraged others, lightened workloads, and helped create the welcoming atmosphere that members value so highly.

While much of Joyce's work has taken place quietly and without recognition, its impact has been significant. Her steady commitment, generosity, and dedication exemplify the qualities the Silver Bowl was created to honour.

The Cowichan Valley Rhododendron Society is pleased to recognize Joyce Rodger as the 2026 Silver Bowl recipient and to thank her for the many contributions she has made to our Society and its members.