“ILLINOIS IRISARIAN”
ILLINOIS IRISARIAN
SPRING 2015
AMERICAN IRIS SOCIETY,
REGION 9
Issue 2015-001
Spring 2015
‘King of Kings’
(Varner 1983, Siberian)
Morgan-Wood Medal Winner
Visit our website at:
WWW.AISREGION9.COM
Greetings to all Irisarians within the “Land of Lincoln”
ILLINOIS IRISARIAN
2
‘Chief Illini’
(Varner, 1975 TB)
‘Newly Rich’
(Varner 1970, TB)
SPRING 2015
ILLINOIS IRISARIAN
3
SPRING 2015
“ILLINOIS IRISARIAN”
TABLE OF CONTENTS/PHOTO CREDITS
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Table of Contents
3
Photo Credits
3
Region 9 Officers
4
Region 9 RVP comments
5
Region 9 Committees
6
Steve Varner Obituary
Steve Varner-Award
Winning Hybridizer
By Jerry Wilhoit
Steve Varner Registrations &
Introductions
7-8
PHOTO CREDITS
Front Cover-Schreiner’s Iris
Gardens
Inside Front Cover:
Top—Jerry Wilhoit
Bottom-Jerry Wilhoit
Page 9:
Top-Jerry Wilhoit
Bottom-Jerry Wilhoit
Page 10:
Left-Jerry Wilhoit
Right-Jerry Wilhoit
9-12
Page 11-Jerry Wilhoit
13
Region 9 Affiliate Calendars
14-16
Master Gardener Days-2015
16
Region 9 2014 Symposium
Results
17
Region 9 2014 Symposium
Top Seven
18-19
Region 9 August 2014
Meeting Minutes
20-23
Page 12:
Top-Jerry Wilhoit
Bottom-Jerry Wilhoit
Page 18:
Top Left-Schreiners
Top Right-Steve Sayers
Lower Left-Chapman Iris
Lower Right-Betty Jacobs
Page 19:
Top-Steve Poole
Center-G. Keller
Bottom-John Bruce
Back Cover-Ensata Gardens
ILLINOIS IRISARIAN
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Region 9, American Iris Society Officers
Region 9 RVP:
David Kelly
1708 Holiday Drive
Pekin, Illinois 61554
309-347-8561
[email protected]
Asst RVP:
Margaret Kelly
1708 Holiday Drive
Pekin, Illinois 61554
309-347-8561
[email protected]
Secretary:
Debra Miller
61 Laconwood
Springfield, Illinois 62712
217-529-8014
[email protected]
Treasurer:
John Bilski
9127 Wedgewood Drive
Fairview Heights, Illinois 62208
618-398-1029
[email protected]
AFFILIATES AND PRESIDENTS
Mid-Illinois Iris Society
Ernie Henson
6401 Cedar Road
Iuka, Illinois 62849
618-822-6584
[email protected]
Northern Illinois Iris Society
Diana Anshakov
2928 North 4425th Road
Newark, Illinois 60541
[email protected]
Prairie Iris Society:
Jerry Wilhoit
2282 N. 350th Street
Kansas, Illinois 61933
217-948-5478
[email protected]
Sangamon Valley Iris Society
Debra Miller
61 Laconwood
Springfield, Illinois 62712
217-529-8014
[email protected]
Southern Illinois Iris Society
Gail Devilbiss
1253 Moonglow Road
Centralia, Illinois 62818
618-533-4705
[email protected]
ILLINOIS IRISARIAN
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SPRING 2015
Greetings
From your Regional Vice
President
Dave Kelly
Greetings,
As I gaze across the backyard, I notice the iris beds are covered with snow, looking very peaceful. How different the yard will look in a couple of months with spring being only 60 days
away. I just refilled the bird feeders. It’s so nice to keep our feathered friends around all year
long as they are so beneficial to us. They present us with a rainbow of colors and activities all
year long. Margaret and I enjoy watching all the different birds visiting the feeders. We just
heard the blue jays out at the feeders making their presence known while the cardinals come
and go quietly.
I would like to extend our condolences to the family of Steve Varner. Steve passed away on
December 9, 2014 in Monticello, Illinois. He was a tremendous hybridizer of many different
types of iris. He will be missed! This issue of the Illinois Irisarian is dedicated to Steve Varner.
We will be traveling to many of the iris activities this year. Our first trip will be to Westmont to
attend a Northern Illinois Iris Society meeting in March. While in Chicago we plan to attend the
Chicago Flower and Garden Show.
Our next event will be the Region 9 Spring Activity; will be held March 28 at the Community
Center in Rochester, Illinois. All Iris enthusiasts are invited to attend. We are planning a brief
business meeting, plant and iris auction, and potluck luncheon. In the afternoon Judy Keisling,
American Iris Society (AIS) Judge’s Chairman and Past President of AIS, will present “Awards
and Ballots”.
The night before, Friday March 27, Steve Poole will be speaking to the Sangamon Valley Iris
Society (SVIS) on “Haustorium-A Survival Strategy”- When you dig up an iris you can’t kill it.
SVIS would be happy to see you on Friday night if you are able to attend.
We always look forward to our affiliate Iris Shows. Plan to attend one of these shows and enjoy
the beautiful iris. We plan to travel to Portland Oregon in May to the AIS Convention, representing Region 9 at the Regional Vice Presidents meeting as well as participating in seminars
and garden tours. Several of our members will also have the opportunity to attend this convention as well. We will be visiting our affiliates throughout the year. We look forward to their
rhizome sales. These sales provide you the opportunity to purchase new irises at very reasonable prices. Our Fall Activity will be the public rhizome sale at the Washington Park Botanical
Gardens in Springfield on August 8.
All these events may be viewed on our Region 9 website. www.aisregion9.com Hope to see
you at one or more of these activities.
Dave Kelly
ILLINOIS IRISARIAN
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SPRING 2015
COMMITTEES
By Laws:
Steve Poole
775 Kaid Road
Eldorado, Illinois 62930
618-273-5992
[email protected]
Iris Auction and Sale:
Chuck Simon
10S122 Lorraine Drive
Willowbrook, Illinois 60527
630-323-5070
Judges Training:
Becky Simon
10S122 Lorraine Drive
Willowbrook, Illinois 60527
630-323-5070
Membership:
Suzy Schneider
21202 North 21st Avenue
Nokomis, Illinois
62075-3912
217-556-7415
[email protected]
Youth:
Brian and Carol Davis
1405 Mayfair Drive
Champaign, Illinois 61821
217-359-3468
[email protected]
Webmaster:
Dave Kelly
1708 Holiday Drive
Pekin, Illinois 61554
309-347-8561
[email protected]
Illinois Irisarian Editors:
Dave & Debra Miller
61 Laconwood
Springfield, Illinois 62712
217-529-8014
[email protected]
Nominating:
Jerry Wilhoit
2282 N. 350th Street
Kansas, Illinois 61933
217-948-5478
[email protected]
Immediate Past RVP:
Margaret Kelly
1708 Holiday Drive
Pekin, Illinois 61554
309-347-8561
[email protected]
ILLINOIS IRISARIAN
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SPRING 2015
Dwight Steve Varner (1917-2014)
Reprinted from original obituary
D. Steve Varner, 97, WWII hero and recipient of the Distinguished Service Cross, Silver Star,
Purple Heart with Oak Leaf Clusters, American POW medal, and the Italian Military Cross for
Valor passed away Tuesday, December 9, 2014, at his home.
He was born in rural Piatt Co., April 24, 1917, the son of Stevenson Falstaff and Laura Bertha
(Fowler) Varner. He married his college sweetheart Avis Beede of Dixon on Dec. 24, 1940. She
passed away Oct. 25, 2008, after nearly sixty-eight years of marriage. He was also preceded in
death by his parents, a brother George David, and sisters Margarite and Betty. Steve is survived
by four sons: Alan (Frankie) of San Mateo, FL; Larry (Patty) of Galva, IL; Bruce (Connie) of
Creve Coeur, IL; Eric (Susan) of Carlock, IL; and his caregiver of many years, Doug Beals of
Monticello, whom he referred to as his “main man.”
He is also survived by six grandchildren: Teresa (Sergio) Arellano, Michael (Angela) Varner,
Mark Varner; Ben (Erin) Varner, Jennifer Varner, and John Varner, and nine greatgrandchildren and several step-grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Also surviving are his
sisters Florence Wrench of Marshfield, MO, and Linda Fombelle of Decatur, IL, and a sister-inlaw Leona Varner, also of Decatur.
After graduation from Monticello High School, he enrolled in the University of Illinois and the
ROTC. Varner was a member of Alpha Zeta, Phi Eta Sigma, Phalanx, Agriculture Club, Cavalry Officers’ Club, and Hoof and Horn Club. He graduated in 1941 as a Bronze Tablet recipient with a Bachelor of Science degree from the College of Agriculture.
After enlisting in the Army in June 1941, Varner was assigned to the 1st Armored Division.
In 1942 Lieutenant Varner landed in North Africa. As a tank commander he fought his way
through Algeria and into Tunisia as part of General Patton’s command. Varner’s tank, named
“Fighting Illini,” was knocked out of action, and he was taken prisoner by the German Afrika
Corps. After a forty-mile march he and his tank loader were able to escape.
He soon encountered seven Italians and captured them by bluffing that a mess kit spoon in his
pocket was a pistol. Within minutes eighteen Germans in a truck were also captured. Driving
ILLINOIS IRISARIAN
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SPRING 2015
through German lines unchallenged, Varner took the prisoners to the Allied forces. Later, several hundred Italian soldiers surrendered to Varner’s small force of tanks. After receiving heavy
indirect fire, Varner moved the prisoners to keep them out of harm’s way.
In 1946 the Italian government recognized Varner for his humane treatment of POWs by
awarding him the Italian Military Cross for Valor. The Italian Consulate officially presented
this medal to him in 2006.
In February 1945, due to numerous injuries and combat-related wounds, Varner was medically
retired as a Major. After the war, he earned his MS in Animal Nutrition from the U of I. Varner
worked as the original research and quality control head for VioBin Corporation for twentyseven years, retiring in 1977. He not only raised registered swine and cattle but also operated
Illini Iris Garden on North State Street. He received national recognition for his hybridizing of
many award-winning irises, day lilies, lilacs, peonies, and other plants.
In 2006 Steve was inducted into the Monticello High School Hall of Fame for his many accomplishments. In 2013 Major (Ret.) Varner, one of an inaugural group of fourteen, was inducted
into the University of Illinois ROTC Hall of Fame. Steve enjoyed hunting and fishing with his
sons. He was also a member of the First United Methodist Church and the American Iris Society.
A funeral service was held at 11 a.m. Saturday, December 13th at Mackey-Wright Funeral
Home, Monticello. Burial with military honors was in the Monticello Township Cemetery.
Region 9 Spring 2015 Meeting
Schedule of Events
9:00am
Set up
9:30am to 10:00am
Continental Breakfast
10:00am to 11:15am
Meeting
11:15 -11:45am (12:00)
Plant Auction
12:00 to 1:00pm
Potluck Lunch
1:15 to 3:15pm
Judges Training with Judy Keisling
3:30 to 4:00pm
Take down and clean up
ILLINOIS IRISARIAN
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SPRING 2015
Steve Varner—Award Winning Hybridizer
By Jerry Wilhoit
Region 9 lost one of their most prestigious and awarded hybridizer, Dwight S. Varner in December of 2014. We all knew him as Steve. Steve received national recognition for his hybridizing efforts for irises, daylilies, lilacs, peonies and other plants. If a plant had pollen, Steve was
likely to try improving it in some way. In earlier years, Steve was also engaged in swine development with his father.
Not only in the plant world, but in all his life endeavors, Steve had many awards. He was a
WW II hero in the northern Africa campaign. (See page 7 & 8). In this article, I will concentrate
on his iris achievements.
Steve became a member of the American Iris Society in 1954. 2014 marked a milestone of 60
years in our society. He was a past RVP of Region 9, a longtime member of the Southern Iris
Society, and a charter member of the Prairie Iris Society. Steve was appointed his apprentice
judgeship in 1956. He received master judgeship in 1971, and the AIS Board of Directors
awarded him Emeritus Judge status in 2001. I believe Steve was the only Emeritus Judge in Region 9. In 1985, he received the Distinguished Service Award from the Siberian Iris Society and
was given the AIS Hybridizers Award in 1995 by the AIS Board of Directors.
Besides his individual awards, his iris introductions were also voted many awards. Steve introduced iris in seven different classifications. Steve introduced one Miniature Dwarf Bearded iris.
‘Bantam’ (1985) a ruffled red purple receiving both a Honorable Mention (HM) and Award of
Merit (AM) awards. He had four Standard Dwarf Bearded iris he hybridized an introduced –
‘Betty Wood’ (1979) a ruffled creamy white with light blue-violet beard won the HM and AM
awards.
‘Bantam’
(Varner 1985, MDB)
‘Betty Wood’
(Varner 1979, SDB)
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SPRING 2015
A later introduction was ‘Shy Miss’ (1990) a light lavender blue with paler edges and darker
centers. He also had other introductions from Wilma Greenlee stock he obtained after her death.
He introduced one Miniature Tall Bearded by the name of ‘Miniature Engraving’ (1989) an off
white with blue red veins on the falls. ‘Disco Doll’ (1983) pink, ’Golden Tears’ (1988) yellow
self, and ’Night Train’ (1966) deep purple black were his Border Bearded introductions. Disco
Doll and Night Train received the HM award. Steve registered one species iris. ’Illini Fountain’ (R-93) a light lavender blue selected from I.lactea seed collected in Hungary. This iris
may or may not have been “officially” introduced. To be “officially” introduced, an iris must be
advertised for sale and or listed in a catalog and the AIS registrar must be informed of such action. I am sure some of Steve’s iris not officially introduced are growing in gardens and may be
listed in catalogs.
Steve had many Tall Bearded iris introductions. He registered, but not necessarily introduced,
several Tall Beardeds (TB’s) in the middle to late 1950’s. It appears his first official introduction in this class was ‘Purple Heart’ registered in 1957 and introduced in 1959. ’Purple Heart’ a
light violet won him an HM in 1959. That was his only TB introduction to win a voted award
by the AIS membership. This shows how hard it is to win an Honorable Mention award. Many
of Steve’s iris were worthy of medals and probably would have won them if they had received
the publicity.
He had a total of 62 registered and 51 officially introduced TB iris. ’Newly Rich’ (1970) a full
yellow self, short in our garden, won the Cook Cup at the 1971 Wichita, Kansas AIS convention. I have grown many of Steve’s TB iris and still have some. I especially like ’Chief Illini’ (1975) a ruffled red (maybe, it is the name I like); ’Pearl Chiffon’ (1972) a ruffled true lavender, and ‘Miss Illini’ (1966) a deep yellow self. Steve, himself, was especially fond of
’Avis’ (1964) S. violet, Falls white tinted light violet named after his beloved wife. His last introduced TB iris is ’Lovely Loyce’ (1994) S. light blue violet, Falls white. ‘Lovely Loyce’ was
the wife of Peter Stadler, one of Prairie Iris Society presidents.
‘Illini Fountain’
(Varner R 1993)
‘Miss Illini’
(Varner 1966)
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SPRING 2015
Steve was better known for his efforts in the Siberian Iris class. He registered 55 cultivars and
introduced 52. With these 52 Siberian irises, He was awarded 18 HM , four AM, and two Morgan-Wood awards, (The Morgan Wood award is equivalent to today’s AM), and two MorganWood Medals. His first Siberian introduction was ‘Tealwood’ (1961) a flat formed, blue purple
self. It won both an HM and Morgan-Wood award.
One of his more awarded Siberian iris introductions was ’King of Kings’ (1983) a wide white,
late blooming iris; one to extend your Siberian bloom. This blooms after most other Siberian
iris have finished blooming. It won the HM, AM, and Morgan-Wood medal for him.
Most of Steve’s Siberian iris were diploid in gene count. However, he did have several
tetraploid introductions. Most of these were in the pink to pinkish lavender in color. His only
awarded tetraploid Siberian iris is ’Dance Ballerina Dance’ (1983) Standards near white with
light pinkish violet plicata effect; Falls full lavender rose pink (I first saw his iris at the Boston
83 AIS convention. It was growing in Bee Warburton’s garden where her soil was highly acid
and was the pinkest Siberian I had ever seen). This iris also won the HM, AM, and MorganWood medal.
Steve’s last Siberian introduction was ’Sweet Success’ (1994) royal purple with gold veined
signal area. His last registration was ’Illini Rose’ (1996) a deep grape rose with no visible signal. Even though Steve was forced to retire from his hybridizing because of health, many of his
seedlings back in the late 1990’s would still rival today’s Siberian introductions. Many of
Steve’s earlier introductions are in the background of today’s introductions.
‘Dance Ballerina Dance’
(Varner 1983)
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SPRING 2015
I cannot omit mentioning ’Steve Varner’ (1978) hybridized by Harley Briscoe, a ruffled lavender blue with veining on the falls. It won the Morgan-Wood medal and is a fitting remembrance
for the man Steve Varner.
If you only have space for a few Siberian iris in your landscape, I would suggest at least using
’King of Kings’ and ‘Steve Varner’. Because of ’King of Kings’ late bloom, you will be
awarded almost a month of Siberian bloom in your garden.
‘Steve Varner’ (Briscoe 1978)
‘Shy Miss’ (Varner 1990, SDB)
ILLINOIS IRISARIAN
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SPRING 2015
Steve Varner Registrations and Introductions
(Source: AIS Encyclopedia)
Border Bearded: 'Disco Doll', 1983 'Golden Tears', 1988 'Night Train' ,1966
Miniature Dwarf Bearded: 'Bantam', 1985
Miniature Tall Bearded: 'Miniature Engraving', 1989
Siberian: 'Ann Dasch',1978, 'Avon', 1979, 'Belfast', 1979, 'Colorado Colonel', 1985, 'Dance
Ballerina Dance', 1983, 'Dark Desire', 1974, 'Demure Illini', 1985, 'Diana Blue', 1983,
'Dixon', 1985, 'Dream Holiday', 1982, 'Dutch', 1984, 'Friendly Welcome', 1978, 'Green Eyed
Queen', 1991, 'High Offer', 1982, 'Illini Charm', 1975, 'Illini Crown', 1986, 'Illini Dame', 1988,
'Illini Encore', 1968, 'Illini Fantasy', R. 191, 'Illini Flirt', 1985, 'Illini Glory', 1989, 'Illini Peace',
1976, 'Illini Purple Pepper', 1989, 'Illini Rose', 1996, 'Illini Ruby', R. 1987, 'Illini Stardust',
1989, 'Illini Valor', 1992, 'Invader', 1981, 'King Of Kings', 1983, 'Kingly White',
1993, 'Kismet', 1980, 'Letitia', 1975, 'Little Papoose', '1992, Maranatha',
1974, 'Marlya', 1974, 'Memphis Memory', R. 1989, 'New Wine', 1979, 'Ode To Love',
1980, 'Outer Loop', 1980, 'Pirate Prince', 1977, 'Precious Doll', 1988, 'Precious Illini',
1988, 'Rare Jewel', 1979, 'Rejoice Always', 1975, 'Robin', 1989, 'Royal Illini', 1989,
'Showdown', 1976, 'Silver Bird', 1982, 'Sole Command', 1981, 'Steve', 1975, 'Sweet Success',
1994, 'Tealwood', 1961, 'Valley of Delight', R. 1985, 'Waterloo', 1982, 'Wine Wings' , 1977.
Species: 'Illini Fountain', Registered 1993
Standard Dwarf Bearded: 'Betty Wood', 1979 'Irish Halo', 1985 'Shy Miss', 1990 'Wild Child',
1973
Tall Bearded: 'Agape Love', R. 1978, 'Avis', 1964, 'Battle Fury', 1979, 'Bill Norman', 1964,
'Bobby', 1972, 'Cameo Cascade', 1974, 'Carillon Belles', 1969, 'Chief Illini', 1975, 'Dawn Melody', 1980, 'Divine Grace', 1981, 'Dixieland', 1976, 'Early Autumn', R. 1957, 'Firestone',
1976, 'Fragrant Cloud', 1978, 'Full Cry', 1978, 'Gladys O'Kelly', 1981, 'Golden Kiwi',
1982, 'Guys And Dolls', 1978, 'Hades', 1985, 'Halloween', R. 1957, 'Hatari', 1968, 'Healing
Touch', 1977, 'Hickory Smoke', 1960, 'Illini', R. 1955, 'Illini Gold', 1960, 'Illini Joy',
1974, 'Illini Knight', R. 1955, 'Illini Moon', 1976, 'Illini Repeater', 1972, 'Late Report',
1973, 'Leisure Lodge', 1984, 'Love Is', 1973, 'Lovely Loyce', 1994, Magic Moon',
1987, 'Mildred Harrell', 1971, 'Miss Illini', 1966, 'Monticello', 1962, 'Mt. Cook',
1979, 'Muskrat Ramble', 1987, 'Newly Rich', 1970, 'Patricia Varner', 1977, 'Patti Page',
1977, 'Peace Child', 1985, 'Pearl Chiffon', 1972, 'Pillow Talk', 1975, 'Pink Domino', R.
1956, 'Pink Mink', R. 1957, 'Prairie Peddler', 1979, 'Precedent', R. 1955, 'Purple Heart', 1959,
'Raspberry Ruffles', R. 1955, 'Satin Silk', 1986, 'Sea Melody', 1974, 'Spanish Sun',
1975, 'Stolen Love', 1980, 'Sun Seeker', R. 1986, 'Susan Varner', 1993, 'Swingin' Safari', R.
1962, 'Trail of Glory', 1977, 'Up Date', 1976, 'Upper Room, R. 1967, 'Winterhawk', 1977.
ILLINOIS IRISARIAN
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SPRING 2015
REGION 9 Affiliate Calendar Dates for 2015
Mid-Illinois Iris Society (MIIS)








February 23, 2015
March 23, 2015
April 27, 2015
Iris Slide Show
Slide Show-Jim and Jean Morris-Australia /New Zealand
Iris Show Training
May 16, 2015
August 1, 2015
Iris Show with SIIS, Lady of the Snows, Belleville, Il
Public Sale, 8:00 AM—Noon, Bearded sale for club
members after lunch.
Beardless Sale for club members
Elections for the coming year
Christmas Party, 11:00 AM, Bingo until prizes are gone
September 28, 2015
October 26, 2015
December 5. 2015
Northern Illinois Iris Society (NIIS)







March 15, 2015
Regular Meeting, 1:00 PM, Westmont Public Library
“A Little Bit of History”, Margaret Kelly
Mid April-Mid June, 2015 Newark, Il, Garden Visits by Appointment
May 30-31, 2015
Annual Iris Show, Morton Arboretum, Lisle, Il
Early July 2015
Iris Dig and Sale Prep, Newark, Il
July 12, 2015
Annual Iris Sale, Elmhurst, Il, 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
August 16, 2015
Summer Picnic and Plant Swap, Noon, Berwyn, Il
November 15, 2015
Year-End Get Together, Uncle Bub’s BBQ, Westmont, Il
11:30 AM - 5:00 PM, “MTBs” Chuck Bunnell.
Prairie Iris Society (PIS)

April 18, 2015


No Iris Show in 2015
August 1, 2015

September 19, 2015

April 19, 2015
May 16, 2015
July 25, 2015
Spring Meeting-Los Zarapes Mexican Restaurant
Mahomet, Illinois, 9:30 AM, “Chicago Flower and
Garden Show” Margaret and Dave Kelly
No Show in 2015
Iris Sale-Lincoln Square Mall, 8:00 AM—Noon, Urbana,
Illinois
Fall Meeting-Los Zarapes Mexican Restaurant,
Mahomet, Illinois, 9:30 AM, “AIS National Conven
tion in Portland, Oregon”-Margaret Kelly.
Southern Illinois Iris Society (SIIS)


Spring Meeting U of I Extension, Salem, Il
Iris Show with MIIS, Lady of the Snows, Belleville, Il
Fall Meeting and Public Sale, U of I Extension, Salem, IL
ILLINOIS IRISARIAN
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SPRING 2015
REGION 9 Affiliate Calendar Dates for 2015
Sangamon Valley Iris Society (SVIS)

March27, 2015

April 24, 2015

May 9, 2015

July 25, 2015

August 21, 2015

September 25, 2015
Meeting 7:00 PM, Rochester, Illinois
Topic: “Haustorium-A Survival Strategy” Steve Poole
Meeting 7:00 PM, Rochester, Illinois
Topic: “Historic Iris” Margaret Kelly
Iris Show, Washington Park Botanical Gardens
Exhibit Hall, 1740 West Fayette Ave, Springfield
Iris Sale, Washington Park Botanical Gardens
Exhibit Hall, 1740 West Fayette Ave, Springfield
Meeting 7:00 PM, Rochester, Illinois
Topic: Member Iris Auction
Meeting 7:00 PM, Rochester, Illinois, Potluck
Topic: Pictures from 2015 AIS Convention
Region 9, American Iris Society

August 7 & 8, 2015

Friday Aug 7, 2015
Washington Park Botanical Gardens
1740 West Fayette, Springfield, IL
Agenda
1:30 to 3:30PM
Set up tables and displays at the Botanical gardens,
also will receive Irises for Public Iris Sale
Check in: Hampton Inn Southwest,
2300 Chuckwagon Drive, Springfield, IL
217-796-7670
Reservations by July 18 for AIS special rate
5:30 PM
Dinner at Golden Corral
1038 La June Drive, Springfield, IL
Exit 92A, off Interstate 72, toward 6th St, right,
Wal Mart exit
Evening program at Hampton Inn Meeting Room, address above
6:30-7:30PM
Share AIS National Convention pictures Friday
7:30-8:30PM
Iris Presentation - to be announced
8:30-9:30PM
Iris Presentation to be announced 2 hours count for
judges training
ILLINOIS IRISARIAN
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SPRING 2015
Saturday August 8, 2015
8:00 AM—Noon
Silent Auction-Members Only
8:00 AM
9:00-Noon
Noon to 1:15 PM
1:30-2:30 PM
2:30-3:30 PM
3:30-4:00 PM
Receive iris rhizomes for Public Sale
Public Iris Sale at Washington Park
Botanical Garden
POTLUCK everyone bring a covered dish
Region 9 Business Meeting
Plant Exchange
Clean up - all pitch in and help - a team effort
Questions contact Dave Kelly - [email protected]
FUTURE AIS CONVENTIONS



May 25-30, 2015, Portland, Oregon
May 23-28, 2016, Newark, NJ
May 22-26, 2017, Des Moines, IA
You can find out more about these upcoming AIS National Conventions by visiting the
AIS Website. You can also refer to the latest edition of the AIS Newsletter (Irises).
Russell Allen Garden Day-Lincoln, Illinois
March 14, 2015, 8:00 AM—4:00 PM
Lincoln College
Meyers-Evans Student Center
North Ottawa Street
Lincoln, Illinois
(Displays will be set up for AIS and Region 9)
Gardeners Day at Dickson Mounds-Lewiston, Illinois
April 11, 2015, 8:45 AM—4:00 PM
Dickson Mounds Museum
10956 North Dickson Mounds Road
Lewistown, Illinois
(Displays will be setup for AIS and Region 9)
ILLINOIS IRISARIAN
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AIS 2014 Symposium--Results for Region 9
Top 44 Out of a Total of 328
1.
2.
2.
4.
4.
4.
4.
8.
8.
8.
8.
12.
12.
12.
12.
16.
16.
16.
16.
16.
16.
16.
16.
16.
16.
26.
26.
26.
26.
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26.
9 votes
8 votes
7 votes
6 votes
5 votes
4 votes
3 votes
Dusky Challenger
Emma’s Laughter
Thornbird
Daughter of Stars
Jesse’s Song
Silverado
Wintry Sky
Conjuration
Honky Tonk Blues
Splashacata
Yaquina Blue
Beverly Sills
Bewilderbeast
Immortality
Notta Lemon
Everything Plus
Going My Way
Gypsy Lord
Ink Patterns
Laced Cotton
Montmartre
Skating Party
Sky Hooks
Stepping Out
Tour De France
Acoma
Aristocracy
Austin City Blues
Awesome Alex
Brazilian Art
Celebration Song
Champaign Elegance
Drama Queen
Hello Darkness
Mesmerizer
Miami Beach
Parisian Dawn
Pond Lily
Queen’s Circle
Sea Power
Sorbonne
Stairway to Heaven
Starship Enterprise
Superstiton
Schreiner 1986
S Poole 2008
M Byers 1989
D Spoon 2001
B Williamson 1983
Schreiner 1987
K Keppel 2002
M Byers 1989
Schreiner 1988
R Tasco 1998
Schreiner 1992
B Hager 1979
B Kasperek 1995
L Zurbrigg 1982
T Burseen 2010
D Niswonger 1984
J Gibson 1972
K Keppel 2006
T. Johnson 2007
Schreiner 1980
K Keppel 2008
L Gaulter 1983
M Osborne 1980
Schreiner 1964
K Keppel 2004
T Magee 1990
K Keppel 2006
H Nichols 2009
T Burseen 2004
K Keppel 2009
Schreiner 1993
D Niswonger 1987
K Keppel 2003
Schreiner 1992
M Byers 1991
K Keppel 2005
K Keppel 2006
E Jones 1995
F Kerr 2000
K Keppel 1999
K Keppel 2009
L Lauer 1993
Schreiner 1999
Schreiner 1977
SPRING 2015
ILLINOIS IRISARIAN
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SPRING 2015
AIS 2014 Symposium-Region 9-Top Seven
‘Thornbird’
(Byers 1989)
‘Dusky Challenger’
(Schreiner 1986)
‘Daughter of Stars’
(Spoon 2001)
‘Silverado’
(Schreiner 1987)
ILLINOIS IRISARIAN
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SPRING 2015
AIS 2014 Symposium-Region 9-Top Seven
‘Emma’s Laughter’
(Poole 2008)
‘Jesse’s Song’
(Williamson
1983)
‘Wintry Sky’
(Keppel 2002)
ILLINOIS IRISARIAN
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SPRING 2015
Minutes, Region 9, American Iris Society (AIS) Meeting
August 9, 2014
Call to Order: Regional Vice President (RVP) Dave Kelly (Dave) called the meeting to order at
1:40 pm. He recognized prior RVPs – Steve Poole, Chuck Simon, and Jerry Wilhoit.
Secretary’s Report: Dave reported the minutes were published in the newsletter. Dave asked
for any additions or corrections. There were none. Suzie Schneider made a motion to approve
the minutes. Jerry Wilhoit seconded the motion. The Secretary’s report was approved.
Treasurer’s Report: John Bilski provided the Treasurer’s report. The balance as of January 1,
2014 was $6,056.63. The balance as of August 9, 2014 before income for the day is $4,664.43.
The silent auction raised $404.50. Margaret Kelly made a motion to approve the Treasurer’s
Report. Steve Poole seconded the motion. The Treasurer’s report was approved.
Committee Reports:
Membership: Suzy Schneider, Chairman, reported there are:
5
10
124
Affiliates
E Members
members -101 memberships
20
12
26
9
10
2
5
2
Single Annual
Dual Annual
Single Triennial
Dual Triennial
Single Life
Dual Life
Youth No Bulletin
Youth With Bulletin
Web Master: Dave reported the web-site is up and running. Those who have information for the web-site should send it to him.
Youth Chairman: Brian and Carol Davis were unable to attend. Dave reminded us the
AIS youth policy guidelines are available online at http://www.aisyouth.com/
Judge’s Training: Becky Simon reported she received some reports on August 5 and 6
that were postmarked July 29.
Iris Sale: Chuck Simon thanked those who helped with set-up and worked the sale.
Dave and Debra Miller will prepare an email list for next year’s sale from the drawing forms
completed at the sale today.
By Laws: Steve Poole reported nothing needs to be changed.
ILLINOIS IRISARIAN
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SPRING 2015
Newsletter: Dave Miller asked for articles for the newsletter.
Nominations: Jerry Wilhoit had nothing to report.
Reports by Affiliate Presidents:
Southern Illinois – Gail Devilbiss reported on the Southern and Mid-Illinois show and the
Southern Illinois sale.
Northern Illinois Iris Society – Diana Anshakov reported on their sale. Their club picnic is next
weekend in Berwyn. The third Sunday in November, Don Murphy will be at their club meeting
and speak on broken color, space age, and tall bearded.
Mid – Illinois Iris Society – Ernie Henson was unable to attend. Leora McTall reported their
public sale and club auction are next weekend, August 16.
Sangamon Valley Iris Society – Debra Miller reported on their public sale. They have ordered
iris from Keith Keppel for their club auction on August 22, Their September meeting will be on
Miniature Dwarf Bearded iris.
Prairie Iris Society – Jerry Wilhoit reported their fall meeting will be September 20 at a Mexican restaurant in Mohomet. Margaret Kelly will present a program on historic iris. They made
$770 at their public sale last weekend and got some new members.
Old Business
Signs for Iris Sale – Dave and Debra Miller have done some research on signs for the Region 9
iris sale. They feel the Region needs three signs – one on MacArthur, one on Bruns Lane, and
one in front of Washington Park Botanical garden. Debra presented their research on an available sign and pictures of the sign. The signs have inserts that are changeable – pictures and date
and time announcements. One sign will cost $316. Two signs will cost$503. Sangamon Valley Iris Society has purchased one sign. The possibility of Sangamon Valley Iris Society and
Region 9 sharing the signs was discussed. Margaret Kelly made a motion to table this item.
Chuck Simon seconded the motion. A vote was taken and the item was tabled until the spring
meeting.
Region 9 Spring Meeting – March 28, 2015
The meeting will be at Rochester.
Washington Park Botanical Garden
Dave Miller will work on filing the papers for Washington Park Botanical Garden to be an AIS
Display Garden.
ILLINOIS IRISARIAN
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SPRING 2015
Advertising for Region 9 Sale
The advertising has been a team effort. Advertising was sent to:
17 area weekly newspapers by American Towns
Springfield - Illinois Times
Newspapers - Taylorville, Decatur, Lincoln, Jacksonville, Bloomington – Pantagraph, Pekin Times, Peoria Journal Star, and Morton Times
Newspapers by Chuck Simon
Master Gardeners in the four county area of the sale courtesy of U of I Extension
Advertising was also put on Facebook page for Region 9 and on Kelly’s Facebook page.
New Business
Memorials
Region 9 will give $500 to the AIS Youth Fund in memory of Melody Wilhoit and Irv Pocklington.
Fall Meeting
The Fall 2015 Region 9 Meeting will be August 8, 2015 at Washington Park Botanical Gardens,
AIS Website
The AIS website now has a new search function.
Symposium Report
The Symposium is due September 1. It may be sent by email or snail mail to RVP Dave Kelly.
Copies of the Symposium are available online.
AIS
AIS 2015 calendars are available in packets of 10 for $46. “Registrations and Introductions”
are available for $13. The AIS Summer Bulletin is available.
AIS National Convention – Portland, Oregon – May 18 -23, 2015
“Iris in Wonderland”
Hotel – Red Lion
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SPRING 2015
6 gardens - 4,200 bearded and beardless official guest irises – Aitken Salmon Gardens,
Mid American Gardens, Miller Manor Gardens, Mt. Pleasant Farm (Chad Harris),
Schreiner Iris Gardens, and Wildwood Gardens (Plotner)
More information online at Irises.org
Additional Tours:
Garden Tours – Oregon Gardens, Keith Keppel Garden, and Kevin Vaughn $65
Columbia River Gorge/Mt. Hood Tour $50
Siberian/Species Convention – Portland, Oregon – May 24 and 25, 2015
5 gardens
Region 9 Newsletter
The Region 9 Newsletter is available online. It contains articles about affiliate iris shows and a
calendar of events.
Drawing Winner
The winner of the drawing is Alec Ackerman, Virden, Illinois. Steve Poole will send him ‘Sharp
Dressed Man’ and ‘Heartstring Strummer’.
Steve Poole
Steve has 60 to 80 rhizomes of his fourth sibling of his pink breeder and ‘Happenstance’. He
also has ‘Melody Ruth’ available for sale for $45. In 2016, he will be introducing “Blackbird
Tears’.
Affiliate Increase
Dave Miller would like to form a committee to research increasing the number of affiliates in
Region 9. Dave Kelly asked for volunteers for the committee. Suzy Schneider, Gail Devilbiss,
and Jerry Wilhoit volunteered.
Melody Wilhoit
Jerry Wilhoit thanked everyone for their cards and funeral attendance.
Adjournment
Margaret Kelly made a motion to adjourn. The meeting adjourned.
ILLINOIS IRISARIAN
ILLINOIS IRISARIAN
David and Debra Miller, Co-Editors
24
61 Laconwood Drive
Springfield, Illinois 62712-8727
‘Sweet Success’
(Varner 1994, Siberian)
SPRING 2015