They were one of the first to receive the new award 'Certificate of Cultural Excellence' for a score above 90 points, and that was for a Miltoniopsis which is very difficult to grow in Tampa, Florida. They have received four First Class Certificates in the past few years as well as every other award given by the AOS.

Bill Thoms got his first orchid in 1969 when he rescued plants of Enc. tampensis in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida. (He actually just picked them off trees pushed over for a new Condo, but it sounds better.) After moving to the Tampa area in the early 70's and, after having an orchid nursery for 20 years called Hilltop House, he and his wife, Doris Dukes, (whom he met at the Tampa Orchid Club in the early '80s), took several thousand of their favorite plants and built their own greenhouse at home to retire from the retail business, relax, and continue their hybridizing program (making about 200 crosses a year). Since then, their plants grew back up to 10,000 and the awards have grown too: 62 Awards for Culture in over 20 genera including 20 in the bulbophyllum alliance and 6 Certificates for Cultural Excellence (90 points or better); First Class Certificates for Cirrhopetalums, Paphiopedilums and Phragmipediums; and about 200 total awards in all categories. Bill recently received one of the most prestigious awards given to a hybridizer, an Award of Distinction which is given for a worthy new avenue of breeding. The plant that received the award was a cross he made between two Trias species and was named Trias Emily Clarkson.

No matter what kind of plants you grow, Bill will give you tips to make them grow and bloom better. Many people say he is one of the best speakers they have ever heard. Come and see for yourself. And take this opportunity to bring an orchid enthusiast friend with you, if possible.

Hope to see everyone there!