North Myrtle Beach Times Serving our Community and the Grand Strand for over 50 years
By Dorothy Bambach
Yaupon Garden Club members were delighted to begin the new year on September 2, 2025. President Phillis Newman welcomed everyone along with several guests: Dr. James Luken, speaker; Herb Newman, technical assistant; and Sue Hagen and Carla Johnson, potential members. Lynne Payne provided an inspirational message. Members and guests enjoyed a delicious luncheon of assorted salads provided by all members. Hostesses for the occasion were Phillis Newman, Donna Belski, Phyllis Green, Peggy Howard and Joy Murray.
President Newman introduced Dr. Luken, a retired Biology professor at Coastal Carolina University and author. He provided an informative history of the plight of deer and birds being hunted almost to extinction in order to make clothing and hats. This predicament prompted the creation of the first game warden in South Carolina. Dr. Luken also explained that it is difficult to identify which plants are native to the area, because Native Americans, as well as the plant industry, were known to spread seeds across a broad area of the country.
Phyllis Green led a discussion of the horticultural specimens brought in by several members. Gail Norden prepared a lovely floral design in a vase that matched the fresh flowers from her garden.
Margaret Graham announced the winners of the club awards: Graceann Phillips-The Louise Ramsbottom Floral Design Award; Deb Madey-The Dallas Wallace Berry Horticulture Award; Dorothy Bambach-The Yaupon Garden Club Service Award; Mary Templeton-The Yaupon Garden Club Community Service Award; and Bette Hurt-The “Birder” Award.
Secretary Kathy Jenkins announced members with perfect attendance during the 2024-25 year as Dorothy Bambach, Margaret Graham, Deb Madey Joy Murray, Phillis Newman and Mary Templeton. In addition, she announced that Joy Murray had perfect attendance during the five days of events for National Garden Week.
Lynne Payne, Membership Chairperson, introduced Sue Hagan who has visited the club twice and expressed an interest in joining. Following a vote by the members, she was unanimously voted into the Yaupon Garden Club.
Treasurer Deb Madey gave the financial report. Minutes provided by Secretary Kathy Jenkins were approved. President Newman announced the Fall Plant Swap sponsored by the North Myrtle Beach Parks and Recreation Department at the J. Bryan Floyd Community Center on September 16, from 1-3 p.m.
Following reports from the committees, two members were recognized for having September birthdays: Joy Murray (25) and Mary Templeton (27). Members were encouraged to gather items for the annual yard sale at Margaret Graham’s on October 11. The meeting was adjourned by President Newman.
