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On October 1st, about a hundred and fifty people from more countries that I can remember, traveled to the Caribbean to partake in this year's biennial of the Dominican Republic. As this was my first biennial, after many years of waiting, I had great expectations and was richly rewarded. I had an incredible time both visiting the county, and meeting such interesting people who shared their love of palms. A unique experience is created when you put names to faces of people you only know from emails, websites, forum postings, and from sheer reputation alone. I took well over a thousand photos on this trip and will posting the best ones in chronological order. This will represent the biennial from my point of view and will hopefully allow those of you who were unable to attend; to experience a truly great tour in a wonderful place. A few photos to tease for what this topic will show in the near future. Coccothrinax boschiana, near Barrara, Azua where the mountains of Sierra Martin Garcia meet the sea. Pseudophoenix ekmanii, in Jaragua National Park Coccothrinax ekmanii, along the road to Pedernales Copernicia berteroana, on farmland outside of Azua Ryan

We finally had a good and much needed drop here last night but March has been unusually dry in NE coast... 21 days in a row with plain sunshine back on top 90° up our heads up here on the coast is a real challenge for most grown up palms, surviving on their own. They've had rain high above normal in São Paulo and Rio this summer but El Niño seemed to keep the S. Atlantic humidity away from the Northeast coast for quite some time... Here are a few pictures from the previous weeks...please feel free to post frontyard images here as well. ...and Please do the rain dance for me...

Euterpe oleracea compliments and embraces the Washingtonias; Back to work, amigos...

Don't ever ask your dog to come into the Clinostigma picture for scale; Latania loddigesii stands drought but needs a wet foot meanwhile:

Now these Bismarckias don't seem to need frequent showers...they fry OK and seem to enjoy:

2006 IPS Biennial - DR - Finale Day 8 - Saturday, October 7th Santo Domingo - El Embajador Hotel - (10:34pm) Where ever there is a party, Jeff Searle is sure to follow. Here he is performing to the popular dance song, "Cotton-Eye Joe" by Rednex [1994]. Joining him are Kate Ostadal (Kathryn), Jayanne Crawley, and his wife Andrea. - (10:36pm) When attendee Lora S. Sakai and her sister are around, they attract attention from just about everyone. Here, two of the Carnivale performers decide to join them for a dance, or two, or three... - (10:38pm) IPS President Paul Craft (licuala) shares in the excitement with one of the biennial volunteers. - (11:09pm) The clock tolled 11:00 PM, and people kept on dancing. Whether it was the booze or just shear will, the few attendees remaining refused to rest. The song of the moment was "Y.M.C.A." by the interminably-aged group the Villiage People [1978]. Ryan

2006 IPS Biennial - DR - Finale Day 8 - Saturday, October 7th Santo Domingo - El Embajador Hotel A few attendees began to trickle out through the dining room at this point. Some couldn't handle their alcohol, while others just had to get up early the next day. It was official that the 2006 IPS Biennial was over, but many partied on regardless. The end of my topic is almost at hand. I don't have a traditional setting sun photo to post at the end, since the biennial didn't end at one. It ended way past when the sun set. I have one photo to end the party with, but to end the topic I might choose something else. - (10:25pm) This photo is where I say sorry Jack, but it was too good to pass up. Hopefully the other forum members will be lenient. This was a spur-of-the-moment conga line that formed in the middle of the dance floor. Biennial host Leonel Mera is on the side, instructing people on what to do. Jack Sayers (elHoagie) shows the two dancers bracketing him on how it is done. - (10:26pm) Biennial attendee Lora S. Sakai dances with a Carnivale performer. You can see in the lower right corner the bells the performer has attached to himself. When it comes to attracting attention these guys do not mess around. Dominicans take Carnivale very seriously, it lasts the entire month of February. - (10:27pm) Sarasota, Florida attendee Rob Branch dances with forum member Kate Ostadal (Kathryn). I had met both of them before the biennial, but it was an added bonus to share it with them. They each have their own unique flair, which made the trip even more special to experience. - (10:29pm) Dancing was contagious among forum members including Allan Bredeson (Al in Kona). Ryan

2006 IPS Biennial - DR - Finale Day 8 - Saturday, October 7th Santo Domingo - El Embajador Hotel - (10:22pm) One attendee finds a good way to hold on to one dancer. - (10:22pm) Same attendee and dancer from above, and they really 'meshed' together when it came to dancing as a pair. The exposure is a bit low, I was taking photos too fast for my flash to keep up. - (10:22pm) I turn just for a second to find our own forum member Jack Sayers (elHoagie) dancing his heart out. I would say sorry Jack about posting this photo, but I am going to do it again in a bit. - (10:24pm) Yes, doctors do dance. Here is biennial host Dr. Emilio Martinez doing just that with a fellow attendee. Many people were making song requests, so the theme of the party began to change greatly. From oldies to 80's to popular dance all found their way to the speakers. Ryan

2006 IPS Biennial - DR - Finale Day 8 - Saturday, October 7th Santo Domingo - El Embajador Hotel The next group of dancers appeared with huge fanfare. They were welcomed with incredible music with a fast paced beat, and a rush of surprised reactions from the attendees. They wore brightly decorated costumes complete with large headdresses composed of numerous fluorescent-colored feathers. - (10:19pm) The Carnivale performers awaited at the front of the DJ stand to welcome in the next group of dancers. Soon after the music went from fast to faster, and the dancers entered from the left. - (10:19pm) The new group of dancers also numbered four, and the women entered first to a large 'wow' from the crowd. Their scant costumes offered little covering, but quite a few alcohol-driven calls from certain attendees. It was all fun to watch regardless. - (10:21pm) It was amazing how some costumes stay on, with all the movement they do. - (10:21pm) Insert your own adjective here. By now, the dancers were moving faster than my flash could keep up. Ryan

2006 IPS Biennial - DR - Finale Day 8 - Saturday, October 7th Santo Domingo - El Embajador Hotel The conclusion of the biennial was at hand, and many people were in the partying mood. Some more than others, but many to say the least. To begin the party, and to end the biennial with a smash, many Carnival dancers were invited to perform for us. And they did, with incredible flair and dancing precision. The DJ kept the music loud and very upbeat. - (10:10pm) IPS President Paul Craft (licuala) took the podium to share his warm feelings of the biennial, and how he enjoyed the experience. He wished everyone a fond farewell and a safe journey home. The conclusion of his last biennial duty, was to begin the party that many were ready for. Lupita Butler was more than happy to carry on his words of fondness and celebration. - (10:12pm) At the very second the presentation concluded, the first group of dancers emerged from a door, to the left of the dance floor. Salsa music filled the room, and the dancers moved to the beat very quickly. Their spirit was contagious and many attendees began to dance on their own inbetween the tables. - (10:12pm) The dancers performed brilliantly, matching each other in both movement and expression. - (10:13pm) The costumes were as lively as their smiles, and their energy they had seemed limitless. Ryan

2006 IPS Biennial - DR Day 8 - Saturday, October 7th Santo Domingo - El Embajador Hotel Just before dinner was served, we managed to take some interesting group shots and certain individual poses of note. Since I was very hungry at this point, and it is usually bad form to take photos of people eating, I took a rest from shooting. The selection of food was spectacular. Every buffet favorite along with local delicacies were spread out in large portions in elegant fashion. It was a feast for the eyes as well as the taste buds. Dinner began roughly at 9:00 PM, and went on for about an hour. The table talk as you might expect, was very sprited and heavy in lust and excitement over what was a triumphant biennial. - (8:50pm) "Bar-ry! Bar-ry! Bar-ry!" A common chant among members from the Green Bus, who wanted to cheer Barry Lang on towards biennial fandom. Many of the women wanted to make real 'special' photos for certain attendees. Barry was voted to be one such attendee. As he is corralled and fondled over by them: Jayanne Crawley, Christiane Pompeo, Cynthia Andersen, Andrea Searle, Judy Glock, and Kate Ostadal (Kathryn). The photo really doesn't give the scene justice, you had to have been there to feel the emotion. I will let you guess which one had the idea to do the photo...and no it was not me. I can't take the credit for this one. - (8:52pm) The distinguished Dr. John Dransfield becomes immortalized in a photo next to Jeff Searle. It was my second time meeting Dr. John Dransfield, and it was an esteemed pleasure. I wish more time was available to talk with him and many other people, but time was fleeting, as was the biennial at this point. He was very friendly, and easy to talk to about anything I could think of to ask. - (8:52pm) The same group from above went out in search of another candidate for biennial immortality, and came across the forum's own Bilbo, Jon Kenahan. He went right into the part with gusto and spirit. I hope you don't get in trouble for this photo, Jon. I could not resist. - (9:51pm) The incredible dinner had passed, with both enjoyment and bereavement, since it was our last meal together. Everyone relaxed and ate dessert, while Jim Glock took a short break. Ryan

2006 IPS Biennial - DR Day 8 - Saturday, October 7th Santo Domingo - El Embajador Hotel - (8:13pm) One of my favorite group shots taken at the farewell dinner. Everyone seemed to fall into place with little or no effort. Top row, left to right: Palm society members from the west coast of Florida Geri & David Prall, Judy Glock, Jack Sayers (elHoagie), Andrea & Jeff Searle, South Florida IPS member John W. Greenleaf, [bottom row, left to right:] nursery manager and IPS member Lora S. Sakai, the conductor of this group shot Jim Glock, long time society member and nursery owner Claude Roatta, and sister of Lora S. Sakai, her name unfortunately never made it into my notes. - (8:13pm) Jeff Searle finds Dr. Scott Zona, palm biologist for Fairchild TB Garden, and poses for the shot. - (8:15pm) Jim Glock and Jeff Searle both said "We need a picture with elHoagie!" A quick search and they found Jack Sayers, and grabbed him into the photo. - (8:19pm) When Kate Ostadal (Kathryn) and her friend from Louisiana, Jayanne Crawley got together and posed in front of the flowers, a situation began. Everyone else wanted to be in the same shot with them, including myself. One of many to do so, was South Florida society member Ron Kiefert. Ryan

2006 IPS Biennial - DR Day 8 - Saturday, October 7th Santo Domingo - El Embajador Hotel Just before dinner began, I tried to get as many portrait and group shots as I could. It was overwhelming, since so many people represented so many combinations. - (7:51pm) A quad of forum members all discussing the same things, without a computer. I tried to photograph as many forum members as I could on the biennial. I have been posting the photographs of the ones I could match up with their forum names, but there are a few that probably slipped through the cracks. From left to right: Jeff Searle, Bo-Göran Lundkvist (bgl), Jerry Andersen (jdapalms), and Allan Bredeson (Al in Kona). - (7:55pm) A trio of very familiar 'Green Bus' attendees posing for one of many photos. Judy Glock, Jeff Searle, and landscape designer Paul Richnow from the island of Nevis. - (7:57pm) Paul Richnow finds himself with one of those mysterious green drinks with the lime wedges, as Jim Glock points out that it has a kick to it. Forum member Kate Ostadal (Kathryn) gets caught in the middle of the discussion. - (7:59pm) New connections and friendships were formed all the time during the biennial. Here is one new group of friends: Biennial Host Leonel Mera, Brazilian attendee Jose Pompeo, and the always lively Judy Glock. Ryan

2006 IPS Biennial - DR Day 8 - Saturday, October 7th Santo Domingo - El Embajador Hotel Originally, the scheduled time for the farewell dinner was 7:30 PM, but a slight delay occured in preparation so it was rescheduled to 8:00 PM. No worries at all. Many attendees were graciously inebriated at this point, so many didn't even notice. It was one of only a few occasions, that every biennial attendee was in the same room at the same time. The spirit in the air was incredible. Every single subject, moment, or palm tree in the world was all being debated, conversed about, or agreed upon. By now, I had put a great deal more 'names with faces' since the biennial's conception. I was able to make connections with people I would have otherwise had never met. That alone was worth the price of admission. - (7:21pm) This photo of the bar scene might look a bit unusual. The lighting perhaps? Everything and everyone was lit by my flash, because the power had gone out again. It returned soon after, after flickering off and on a few times. - (7:23pm) South Florida palm enthusiasts and society members Paulette & Bill Sears pose on one of the hotel's antique sofas. - (7:26pm) Most, or if not all, of the attendees had gathered in the lobby by this time. Many got in line to get some seeds to bring home with them. On the left, Jeff Searle asks for some, only to get a wry smile from Leonel Mera. - (7:49pm) When no one was looking, or so I thought, I snuck into the dining room, Gran Salon Consular, to take a few photos. The theme for the evening was "Caribbean Night". The decorations and floral arrangements were stunning. Many were accently by flood lights and unique candles, and offset by the fine china and silverware. Ryan

2006 IPS Biennial - DR Day 8 - Saturday, October 7th Santo Domingo - Old Colonial Zone We shopped along the stores bordering Columbus Square for a short while, than made our way back to the first store we went to a week earlier. As we walked across the square, we were bombarded by the usual assortment of beggars, shoe-shine kids, and many unrelenting hawkers of nefarious merchandise. We made our way into the store , and met up with Ray & Theresa Gompf, who were already bartering over items. Before I describe the following photos, one aspect of Dominican life has to be mentioned...and that being the chemical concoction known as Mamajuana. Many of you who were at the biennial, either tried it, or knows of someone who did. Some of you might even be cursing me for even bringing it up, depending on the reaction you had. But, either way it is definitely part of Dominican life and folklore and has been for centuries. Very loosely described, Mamajuana is a composite cocktail, consisting of various herbs, spices, leaves, and twigs stuffed into a large bottle, along with honey, wine and rum. The whole thing is left to ferment, for who knows how long, in a dark spot somewhere. The end result has been described as everything from a cough medicine to liquid viagra. Every country seems to have their own 'home-grown' drink, and Mamajuana is no exception. The exact list of ingredients is a mystery to everyone, thankfully, except to only a handfull of families on the island that still produce it. I did try it, the first time we went to the large store near the square. I will say I got no strong effects from it, other people however had different experiences. Some said they felt as if their feet never touched the ground for a half hour, while others had an intense compulsion to vomit. To each their own, I guess. - (3:59pm) After reaching the store, we all spread out to view the merchandise. In the rear of the store, a small liquor and tobacco section held numerous cigars and bottles of rum for sale. One thing they didn't sell, but gave away, was free shots of Mamajuana to who ever wanted to try it. Those of us who did it earlier in the week, egged on the other attendees to try it. One participant was our own Jack Sayers (elHoagie), pictured here downing his trial shot of Mamajuana. Jim Glock is on the right, awaiting Jack's reaction to it. "Bleh". - (4:02pm) The salesperson/bartender, as it were, pours another shot of Mamajuana for another daring soul. You can barely see the array of ingredients inside the Mamajuana bottle in his hand. We all got a close look at it, and wondered how someone would have figured this out to be a drink. Either boredom or desperation must have contributed to its creation centuries ago. - (4:34pm) At this point in our shopping spree, we noticed the time, and made our way back along El Conde Street to catch a taxi back to the hotel. We wanted to have plenty of time to unwind before the farewell dinner. Halfway up El Conde Street, Kate Ostadal (Kathryn) and Ray Gompf look over a selection of stones at a shop counter. - (4:43pm) A short-lived shopping craze started when Andrea Searle purchased a unique hand-carved bamboo beer stein. A two-part bamboo holder and insulator for beer bottles. She decided to get more than one, and as she was looking for more, other attendees decided they wanted them also. Then the search ensued. Jerry Andersen (jdapalms) finds a pair to buy at the store's bar area. Ryan

2006 IPS Biennial - DR Day 8 - Saturday, October 7th Santo Domingo - Old Colonial Zone This time spent relaxing at the restaurant, talking with attendees, and exploring the colonial zone was an essential part of the biennial. On any trip to see palms in their natural habitat, time must be taken to explore the country they are in, while on a biennial or not. One attendee noted that these moments are 'bookmarks' in the lives of palm enthusiasts. With our two groups joined together at the restaurant; we spent the next two hours plus, walking from store to store, doing some last day shopping. - (3:05pm) Our complete group sitting at a table outside the restaurant. Ray & Theresa Gompf had just left to get a head start on shopping, with ourselves not far behind. It takes a lot of energy to keep up with those two. Clockwise from foreground center: the ultimate biennial guides, Judy & Jim Glock, forum member and frequent abuse target Jack Sayers (elHoagie), forum member Kate Ostadal (Kathryn), Jeff & Andrea Searle, and forum members and nursery owners Cynthia & Jerry Andersen (jdapalms). - (3:22pm) Two doors down from the restaurant was a jewelry store with a museum on the second floor. This shop was right on Columbus Square, so it saw quite a bit of tourist traffic. The prices reflected this flow of unwavering shoppers. While many perused the jewerly selection, I made my way to the second floor museum. The museum had a open balcony, which I made use of for this panoramic view of Columbus Square. Christopher Columbus's familiar statue can be seen on the left, with the Basilica Manor in the background. - (3:23pm) The national stone of the Dominican Republic is volcanic blue pectolite, also known as Larimar. This bright blue to white gemstone is actually a very high grade of marble. It is only found on one place on Earth, areas surrounding the Bahoruco River, near Barahona. It is actually found throughout the Earth's crust, but requires an extreme tectonic event to bring it near the surface. Near the beginning of the Bahoruco River, an ancient volcano, once active 100 million years ago, brought the components to make Larimar near the surface. After the volcano began to erode, Larimar trickled its way down the river to the coast. This display at the museum educated visitors, along with showing some some impressive examples of the gemstone. - (3:27pm) Downstairs in the store, one display case held this one large piece of amber, another treasure of the Dominican Republic. Ryan

Paul, Thanks for pinning the I.D. on this palm. It was the only 'blank' I had from the entire biennial. It is an unusual palm for sure, but I have seen small specimens of C. dulcis (old name of C. plumeriana) in cultivation, and they did not have the color. Unless the coloring is a result of it being an interspecies variety, or an environmental anomaly. All we need is a specimen outside the DR with that color, to disprove that theory. Thanks, again It would be a welcome addition to my collection anyday, and it should grow here fine. 2006 IPS Biennial - DR Day 8 - Saturday, October 7th Santo Domingo - National Botanic Garden, Dr. Rafael Moscoso, Part 2 - Old Colonial Zone Our taxi driver held a smile from ear to ear, as we exited the garden. He was parked in the shade, waiting for us to return. Last minute photos of the garden were taken as our group packed themselves into the taxi. We were bound for the Old Colonial Zone to meet up with other attendees. - (1:41pm) Just as we were leaving the garden, Jim Glock shows his appreciation for this very nice Pseudophoenix vinifera. - (1:56pm) On route to the Colonial Zone, our driver took us on a brief tour of downtown Santo Domingo. We went by a few landmarks fairly fast, and our taxi was packed full and this made photography tricky. One shot I was able to make, was this photo of the United States Embassy as we were driving by. - (2:20pm) Our taxi dropped us off near El Conde Street, and we walked to Columbus Square. We reached the familiar restaurant on the north-west corner of Columbus Square, and sat down to a few drinks with other attendees. Arriving to the restaurant just before we did, were attendees Kate Ostadal (Kathryn) and Ray & Theresa Gompf. Everyone from both groups had stories to tell about their days so far. The el Presidente's made even the most colorful stories come forward. - (2:46pm) In an area adjacent to the restaurant, Kate gives a thirsty dog some water. Ryan

2006 IPS Biennial - DR Day 8 - Saturday, October 7th Santo Domingo - National Botanic Garden, Dr. Rafael Moscoso, Part 2 Our group continued our private tour of the garden, from the open palmetum area, back towards the main entrance. - (11:14am) Bright splashes of red decorate this remarkable croton, as Jeff holds back a few leaves. The name of this variety escaped from my notes, so again if anyone wants to identify it, by all means. - (11:16am) A large grouping of Blue Latan Palms, Latania loddigesii. Many of which were in different stages of flowering and setting seed. - (11:22am) A pair of well grown Chinese Fan Palms, Livistona chinensis. Many of the lawn and turf areas of the garden were well manicured. - (11:25am) Near one of the garden's library buildings was this ornate Coccothrinax sp. I looked around for an I.D. tag or sign, but none was found. It is possibly a C. argentea. Ryan

I am not sure who would win that ominous award, I could think of a few, but as a whole the 'Green Bus' would win hands down. 2006 IPS Biennial - DR Day 8 - Saturday, October 7th Santo Domingo The second Saturday of the biennial, was a lighter day in the way of scheduling. A majority of attendees went on the provided tour of the old Colonial Zone and visit to a local nursery outside of the city. Since my immediate group and I explored the Colonial Zone last Sunday, we thought of other things we could do. We settled on a return trip to the National Botanical Garden, Dr. Rafael Moscoso. An idea was made to explore the garden at our leisure, and look for plants we didn't see on the tram tour from Day 3. We had plenty of time to do everything before the farewell dinner, later that evening. - (10:31am) Since we were not following the schedule for the day, we ate breakfast at the hotel a short while after the other attendees had left. Our group were slightly divided on what they wanted to do, so we came up with a compromise. One part will go to the garden, while the other half went to the market area to do some shopping. We would then meet at the same restaurant we had a drink at last time in the Old Town, Day 2. On the right, the beautiful flower arrangement had since been changed since our first time at the Hotel el Embajador. We all decide who is going where with whom, in the hotel lobby. - (11:10am) We figured out who was going to the garden, then we piled into a taxi after bartering on the price. A short ride through the city, and we were back at the National Botanic Garden, Dr. Rafael Moscoso. We began at the front of the garden, and worked our way around. Here is one of many crotons we saw. Jeff Searle and Judy Glock are avid croton fanatics and they tried to out do each other in identifying them. This one like many, has incredible color that's pretty hard to beat by any other plant. If any one wants to ID this one, by all means do, I am still learning crotons. - (11:13am) In one of the first sunny areas of the garden, this Calamus sp. runs rampant through a nearby group of trees. - (11:13am) A close-up of one leaf belonging to the above Calamus sp. Ryan

2006 IPS Biennial - DR Day 7 - Friday, October 6th Baní (Barahona - Santo Domingo) We had about thirty minutes to look around, until we were due back at the bus to leave for Santo Domingo. - (4:40pm) Christie Jones, from Fairchild TB Garden stands next to collector Ray Gompf. Trunks of a few Coccothrinax spissa are behind them, with more further down the hill. Western Baní can be seen in the distance. - (4:42pm) I needed photos of juvenile specimens, but since I didn't find any, I found these two smaller ones. They seemed to be the youngest plants around. Some of the palms down the hill are Sabal domingensis. - (4:44pm) Group B (Green) gathers around the top of the hill taking photos and discussing how unique these palms are. Front and center are Jeff Searle and forum members Kate Ostadal (Kathryn) and Jack Sayers (elHoagie). - (4:46pm) Looking down the western side of the hill, attendees look for what ever seed might be available under a group of large Coccothrinax spissa. Ryan

2006 IPS Biennial - DR Day 7 - Friday, October 6th Baní (Barahona - Santo Domingo) It was an unusual sight seeing so many palms, growing quite well in habitat, in the middle of a large town. The land was owned by a farmer, who grazed cattle upon it, and sold the palm leaves for thatch. The farmer was paid over a year ago not to harvest the leaves, so that the palms would look good for us when we arrived on the biennial. One disturbing fact I noticed that there was no juvenile or younger-aged specimens around. I figured the cattle has something to do with that, since I saw very few seedlings. I hope the population doesn't dwindle. One side note to mention, pretty much every photo you have seen of Coccothrinax spissa in a book, journal, etc., was taken here on this hill. - (4:35pm) Walking our way up the hill, this was the first pair of Coccothrinax spissa we came across. Many of the larger individuals had burrows in the swollen part of the trunk. - (4:36pm) A wider angle, on one side of the hill, showing the bulk of these peculiar palms. As you can see, not too many juveniles. The palm in the center shows the characteristic look of a full size Coccothrinax spissa. - (4:38pm) A close-up of one of the smaller individuals, showing the leaf bases and fiber on the trunk. - (4:39pm) Many of Group B (Green) viewed the palms from the top of the hill. It was a bit windy up there, but it was cooler and relaxing. The southern areas of Baní can be seen in the distance, along with the Caribbean Sea in the extreme distance. Karolyn & Bo-Göran Lundkvist (bgl) view the palms and take photos on the left, with Christie Jones [brown]. On the right Joseph (Ortanique) and Paul Norris do the same. Ryan

My bandwidth limitations finally reset this morning. As you can see in this screen shot taken a few days ago, I was close to running out. The amount of hits and bandwidth are a months worth, from Oct. 16th, to today. 2006 IPS Biennial - DR Day 7 - Friday, October 6th Baní (Barahona - Santo Domingo) As soon as we returned to the agricultural station, the other half of Group B (Green) followed soon behind. We boarded the Green Bus, with both palms and relaxation on our minds. It had already been a long day, of sightseeing and traveling, but it was entirely worth it. We still had one more stop for the day, to see a unique population of Coccothrinax spissa. About halfway along Route 2, between Azua and Santo Domingo, was our next stop, the small town of Baní. Life on the Green Bus was as jovial as ever. In the hour and a half it took us to travel to Baní, more jokes and stories were told that I can remember, not to mention rum consumption. The content that became available was astounding, when you put into perspective the people onboard, and the lives and destinations they had experienced. Close to 4:30 pm, we arrived in Baní, near the center of town. Our bus pulled over along one of the major roads, and we disembarked, and proceded to follow a trail along an aqueduct. At the end of which, was a path that led through a fence, up onto this large hill in the center of town. This hill held an incredible population of Coccothrinax spissa. - (4:30pm) During the biennial, I was told stories of previous biennials, and the large array of experiences that took place during them. The general conclusion I came to, was that anything that can happen on a biennial, will happen. As we were walking along the aqueduct, we looked upstream and noticed a group of kids that were 'tubing' down stream. Minus inner tubes of course. The flow of water downstream was quick, but not too swift. - (4:30pm) To make things a little interesting, Jeff Searle decided to throw some money to them. Some times they caught it, other times they had to dive for it. It was funny to see their reactions as both the kids and Jeff were laughing. To quote Jeff as he was talking to other attendees at the moment: "You never know what will happen at a biennial." - (4:32pm) A look of puzzlement overcame one of the kids, as he tries to figure out the strange coin Jeff threw him. It was a US Quarter. Ryan

2006 IPS Biennial - DR Day 7 - Friday, October 6th Azua - Pueblo Viejo (Barahona - Santo Domingo) At about fifteen minutes to 3:00 pm, our tour guide Franklin walked around and informed us that our time here on the farm is coming to a close. We had some time to take some more photos, and look for more seed. Soon we would be leaving on the safari vehicles back to the agricultural station, where the Green Bus awaited our return. - (2:45pm) South Florida attendee Dan Keys collects Copernicia berteroana seed with help from a Ziploc bag. That manufacturer of plastic bag got quite a bit of advertisement during the biennial. - (2:47pm) In the sea of what was thousands of Copernicia berteroana, was one Sabal domingensis, a bit on the well done side. I took a comparison shot of the two, with the S. domingensis on the right, slightly burnt. - (2:49pm) We began to make our way back to the cow pasture, as I asked Christie Jones, Curator of Palms & Cycads for Fairchild TB Garden, to pose in front of a Copernicia berteroana. She should also be familiar from the Rare Event '06 thread posted earlier. - (3:01pm) The safari vehicles awaited us after the short walk back along the path to the off-road trail. We were in high spirits after seeing so many palms in one small area. That great experience was added to a long list already compiled during the biennial. As the safari vehicle begins its way back to the agricultural station, Paul Norris on the left relaxes, while Jim & Judy Glock express their palm enthusiasm with Jeff Searle. One of many farms can be seen in the background, dotted with several species of palms. Ryan

Don't forget the seedlings... :ghostface: Ryan

As it is probably obvious by now, I enjoy taking photos. It was a great experience to had been able to photograph the Dominican Republic and the Biennial. To me it was far from exhaustive, the work involved is hardly noticed by myself when I photograph. Its natural, like instinct, I see and then I shoot. 2006 IPS Biennial - DR Day 7 - Friday, October 6th Azua - Pueblo Viejo (Barahona - Santo Domingo) Before we left on the second part of our Azua palm tour, the safari vehicles were restocked with bottled water and sodas. It made me wonder how difficult the biennial would have been, if it wasn't for these vehicles and their drivers. We would have been doing quite a bit of walking and hiking. Around 2:00 pm, we left the agricultural station and proceded southwest of Azua to the farming and historic area of Pueblo Viejo. The ride lasted only twenty minutes, and mostly traveled along paved roads through Azua. When we arrived in the area, we went off-road for a short distance along a drainage ditch, until we reached a farm. - (2:28pm) The entire area around us was filled with palms, including the species of interest, Copernicia berteroana. There were tall coconut varieties (Cocos nucifera), Hispaniolan Royals (Roystonea borinquena), and Dominican palmettos (Sabal domingensis) spread out over various farms and stretches of land. When we got off the safari vehicles, we followed a path that led us to a cow pasture where many of the aforementioned palms were growing in abundance. These juvenile Copernicia berteroana were enjoying the fertile cow pasture, as their bright green color suggests. - (2:28pm) Above and to the left of the juveniles, was this stately individual Copernicia berteroana. It was still holding a fair amount of persistent leaf bases. - (2:30pm) In the back far corner of the cow pasture, a make-shift path led under the fence and by this very tall specimen. It was probably the tallest Copernicia berteroana around we could see. The trunk had scarring on it from a previous fire. Many of the older palms around had simular scarring. Where there are palms, and palm fanatics, you get seed collecting. There were literally tons of seed on the ground of this species. Where ever seed had fallen...tens of thousands of seedlings were there now. In a way it was ironic to see a palm, with a fair distribution in cultivation, to exist in such huge numbers in all conceivable sizes. In the blue shirt on the left, forum member Scott Walkowicz (aztropic) looks for seed along with South Florida attendee Ron Kiefert (green) and Houston attendee Paul Norris. Just crossing under the nearby fence to the right, is forum member Jack Sayers (elHoagie), who's become an unofficial mascot of the biennial, through no fault of his own. - (2:31pm) The path that led under the fence, and by the huge Copernicia berteroana, went deep into the neighboring tract of land where many more palms awaited. And I do mean a lot more. Ryan

Sorry for the delay in posting these photos, but my Photobucket account has gotten so many hits lately, that I am running out of bandwidth for this month. It will reset in about a week, but I did not want it to max out while I am posting too many new photos. If it did run out, all my posted photos, regardless of which forum or topic they are in, would fail to load. 2006 IPS Biennial - DR Day 7 - Friday, October 6th Azua - Río Vía (Barahona - Santo Domingo) An hour or so went by quickly as many of Group B (Green) explored the trail, and various paths. Many that had went on to see the river, or who had followed the trail into the mountain had returned. We gathered together and made our way back to the open area for the ride back. - (12:04pm) A large portion of the Green Bus attendees make our way back to the open area, along the trail. - (12:07pm) The short walk concluded here, at the open area. Many members of the Green Bus had made their way back by now. Murray Corman in the blue, center adjusts his backpack while the rest of us continued our many conversations. Jeff Searle talks with forum members Joseph (Ortanique) & Jack Sayers (elHoagie) on the right. At this point of the day, a situation developed where a delay occured in getting the safari vehicle back to pick us up. No one was exactly sure of what had happened, but we had to wait in the open area for an hour and twenty minutes before it had arrived. Many were ok, some who were not used to the heat sought shade. One attendee, Paul Richnow had a reaction to a food allergy from the previous night. It caused slight dehydration, but he was fine after we got back on the safari vehicle. - (12:59pm) Since it was apparent we had extra time on our hands, we poked around in some of the surrounding bushes. While many attended to Paul, someone noticed this spider coming in and out of a burrow nearby. It is a young, female Greater Hispaniolan Tarantula, Phormictopus cancerides, and it is getting prodded by Jeff Searle as I took the photo. I'm no spider expert, but that's the closest identification I could get, based on the photo. It is the only spider that came close, and were in the middle of its native range. Males don't even get that big. For scale, that stick is about 3/8's of an inch in diameter. - (1:40pm) The wait ended, and one of the safari vehicles came and gathered us up and took us back to the agricultural station near Azua. Including travel time, it was an hour and forty minutes before we got back. Here is part of Group B (Green) relaxing in the shade eating our lunch. The other half of Group B were still on their way back from the open area, near the Pseudophoenix vinifera. Ryan

2006 IPS Biennial - DR Day 7 - Friday, October 6th Azua - Río Vía (Barahona - Santo Domingo) The trip on the safari vehicles lasted only about twenty-five minutes, then we arrived at an open area near a bend in the trail. We disembarked and began to follow the trail on foot, as it curved down and around the hills. The trail went on for quite a while until it reached the river, then continued upward to the summit of one of the nearby mountains. - (11:21am) A short distance from the open area, a signature specimen of Pseudophoenix vinifera stood in a small cleared area. The height may appear distorted, but the photo was taken on the trail, which was uphill from the base of the palm. It was cleared for the biennial. - (11:21am) A landscape-oriented shot of the crown, showing the leaves with the valley in behind. - (11:31am) At this point, most of Group B (Green) went on their own to explore along the trail. As we walked down and around on the trail, we came across part of Group A (Blue) on their way back to the open area. The safari vehicles that had dropped us off, repeated the scenario from previous days and brought Group A (Blue) back to the staging area. This shot was taken in a small clearing on the side of a hill, a short distance from the trail via a fairly steep path. A pair of great palms, Coccothrinax argentata and Pseudophoenix vinifera. - (11:32am) A close-up of the same Pseudophoenix vinifera featured above, showing a unique bulbous trunk. Ryan

2006 IPS Biennial - DR Day 7 - Friday, October 6th Azua - Río Vía (Barahona - Santo Domingo) There was a feeling of accomplishment on Friday morning, as we all knew the biennial was more than halfway over, and we had seen some amazing palms in their natural habitat. It had already been a great adventure, and more was still to come. After that fabulous night, many staggered down to the pool area and had breakfast, discussing the previous days traveling and excursions. Some attendees had stayed behind in Barahona, and were showing photos from their adventures. Afterwards, we got packed our stuff and checked out from the hotel. The Green Bus was waiting for us in the parking lot, so we all piled on board for the trip back. Along the way to Santo Domingo, we were going to stop at two locations, to see three different species in habitat. - (10:48am) An agricultural station in the outskirts of Azua served as a staging point for this leg of the trip. We arrived here after a brief hour and a half trip from Barahona. Talk was light since many decided to sleep off the effects from last night. From this point we boarded the familiar safari vehicles, drove through the town of Azua for a bit, then turned north and meandered our way to a small valley. At the base of which was the Río Vía, a small river that bordered populations of Pseudophoenix vinifera. We had just disembarked from the bus, as I got attendees Claude Roatta and Jim Glock talking about last night. - (11:02am) We left the agricultural station a little late, but made up time as we headed out of Azua. When we started north, we left the paved roads and entered a rough section of trail that led into the mountains. We crossed through a small villiage outside of Azua, and this boy ran behind our safari vehicle for quite a long way. Jeff threw a handfull of pesos to him as he ran out of steam. - (11:06pm) The countryside of Azua province, dotted with small farms and coconut plantations. Shot was taked from the safari vehicle, as we just went over a large hill. - (11:19am) We got closer to our goal, the river valley that held numerous specimens of Pseudophoenix vinifera, as seen here. Ryan

2006 IPS Biennial - DR Day 6 - Thursday, October 5th Hotel Costa Larimar, Barahona - (9:58pm) Another series of dances began with each performer paired up, and dancing in large open circles, while twisting their partners around. - (9:59pm) They formed two circles; men on the outside, women on the inside, then moved in a tightly packed circle around, then in again, then repeated. It was amazing they didn't trip over each others' feet. - (10:03pm) One of the very enthused dancers lost his scarf, and continued the dance while holding it in his mouth. - (10:18pm) The dancing and drumming continued and many people got involved. The nearby bar on the second floor had something to do with it as well. Attendee Lupita Butler from Mexico shows off more than a few moves with that same exuberant dancer. Ryan

2006 IPS Biennial - DR Day 6 - Thursday, October 5th Sierra de Bahoruco National Park One fifty minute drive later, our bus arrived at the entrance to Sierra de Bahoruco National Park. During the trip, we made a right turn at an intersection which was just four miles away from the Haitian border. We disembarked from our bus and boarded our trusty safari vehicles again, for a brief thirty minute ride up into the highest point in the park, at around 1200 meters, 4000 feet. Even at the park entrance it was surprisingly cool, and got even cooler in temperature as we ascended. Along the way in the safari vehicles we saw scattered populations of Coccothrinax scoparia, the trademark palm of the park. - (12:48pm) Near the center of the park, a clearing served as a unofficial entrance. We disembarked from the safari vehicles and made our way through various trails that worked their way through the mountain top. Here is the entrance sign that greeted us as we got off the safari vehicles. - (12:49pm) Group B (Green) as we make our way through the park trails. Many of the native plants had large, stone signs that told us plant name, and family. Some plants were surprises to find growing here in the wild. One such surprise was seeing the common Artillery Fern, (Pilea microphylla) growing wild. It spent many years as a landscape plant in South Florida, where it became more of bother than a benefit. - (12:53pm) A few twists and turns later, we came across the 'piest de resistance' of the park. The Hoyo del Pelempito, an enormous and beautiful valley near the center of the park, awaited us as we reached near the top. It is over eight kilometers across, (five miles) from side to side, and much greater in length. Pure nature as far as the eye can see. - (12:54pm) Another shot, slightly to the left of above. I simply did not have a wide enough lens to get it all in, 18mm didn't cut it. Ryan

2006 IPS Biennial - DR Day 6 - Thursday, October 5th Hotel Costa Larimar - Pedernales - Sierra de Bahoruco National Park - (10:48am) South Florida attendee Ron Kiefert stands next to a shorter Coccothrinax ekmanii. The limestone rock we encountered in Jaragua National Park was common throughout this region, and it made walking around tricky. Especially after what we saw it do to Larry Noblick's hand. - (10:50am) Members of Group B (Green) explore the immediate area along Route 44. From this spot we could see the extreme southwest coastline in the distance. On the left is South Florida attendee Ken St. Germain walking back with Cynthia Andersen from Hawaii. Returning to the bus on the right is attendee Christie Jones, also from South Florida. - (10:52am) A large group of Coccothrinax ekmanii not far from the edge of the road. - (11:06am) We began to gather around the bus, awaiting the time to get back on board. We noticed this peculiar Gumbo-limbo (Bursera simaruba) growing in the limestone, not far from where the bus was parked. Its overall size has been greatly reduced due to the harsh conditions, and coastal exposure. Ryan

2006 IPS Biennial - DR Day 5 - Wednesday, October 4th Casa Bonita Hotel - Hotel Costa Larimar The dinner at Casa Bonita Hotel was very delicious, it featured many local dishes as well as buffet favorites. We spent about an hour enjoying dinner at the hotel, until we headed home to Hotel Costa Larimar; where there were two presentations scheduled that evening. - (5:51pm) The excellent buffet that awaited very hungry biennial attendees. - (9:13pm) We made our way back onto our respective buses, and journeyed a short distance to our hotel. Everyone disappeared towards their rooms, only to return later in the pool area. A few minutes after many gathered back at the pool, it was announced that presentations were starting upstairs. Here are the two speakers that evening: Franco Simonetti from Chile, gave a presentation on the distribution of Chilean Wine Palms, Jubaea chilensis throughout the country's provinces. A very detailed presentation on the palms of Cuba, including several newly described species, was provided by Raul Verdecia. - (10:52pm) I can't close out the day without a photo of the Green Group in action around the pool. Attendees Jayanne Crawley and forum member Kathryn Ostadal (Kathryn) make Murray Corman laugh about something, I can't quite remember what though. One thing that led to comical observations, was the frequent loss of power during our stay at the Hotel Costa Larimar. Flickering lights, intermittent air conditioning, (going pitch black during a presentation was fun), and the sounds of hotel employees banging the generator around to get it to work. You never know what might happen at a biennial... Ryan

2006 IPS Biennial - DR Day 5 - Wednesday, October 4th Casa Bonita Hotel - (4:55pm) Our host on the left talks with attendees Silvia Bredeson from Hawaii, and Janet Rogers from Florida. - (4:57pm) Attendees Lupita & Mike Butler talk about palms from their home in Mexico with Jim Glock. - (5:37pm) Shortly before dinner was served, the decision was made to 'shoot for' a group photo. (no pun intended) It wasn't organized to any extent, so I kept taking photos as people lined up, moved around, etc. Here is the first of two shots I will post, believing to have gotten as many attendees as I could. - (5:39pm) The second shot with a slightly different arrangement. It was hard to line up the depth of field properly, so everyone's face would be in focus. I wanted to stand on a chair to do so, but decided not to so close to the pool, which was immediately behind me. Ryan

2006 IPS Biennial - DR Day 5 - Wednesday, October 4th Jaragua National Park - Casa Bonita Hotel When all of Group B (Green) returned from the forward landing site, we all gathered and relaxed, telling different perspectives of what we had seen in the park. A short wait went by quickly and we boarded the safari vehicles bound for the first staging area near Oviedo, where our bus awaited our return. - (1:13pm) Jeff Searle feeds a dog belonging to one of the locals. I've never seen a sandwich disappear so quickly. - (1:22pm) Resting in a shady spot is forum member Kathryn Ostadal (Kathryn) chatting with Judy & Jim Glock. - (1:27pm) Returning helicopters land while locals watch on with their dog. - (1:42pm) We get on the safari vehicles and make our way to the first staging area to get on our bus and begin the ride back towards Barahona. Jim Glock watches on with Andrea & Jeff Searle. Ryan

2006 IPS Biennial - DR Day 5 - Wednesday, October 4th Jaragua National Park While my group of five were waiting for the next helicopter to arrive, we decided that a group photo in front of a helicopter would be nice to have. I decided to take it while the other four posed. - (1:03pm) The other four in my group, Jeff & Andrea Searle, Jim & Judy Glock, make their way to the helicopter as I stay back to take photos. - (1:03pm) As the helicopter idles and creates a downdraft, they all turn and I take a series of photos. This is one with Jeff Searle waving back. - (1:03pm) I continue to shoot, as Jeff Searle gets on board. In the corner of my viewfinder, I notice Biennial Host Leonel Mera taking my seat on the helicopter... - (1:04pm) I take a unique shot of my group beginning to take off without me (hehe). There was another helicopter inbound to the landing site, so I took a spot on that one. Here is Jim Glock and Andrea Searle waving back. Ryan

2006 IPS Biennial - DR Day 5 - Wednesday, October 4th Jaragua National Park When refueling was completed, and lunch was finished, we arranged ourselves back into our 5-person groups and waited for our turn to fly. For almost everyone at the biennial, including attendees from the Dominican Republic, this was their first time to this extremely remote area of the country. The Jaragua National Park consists of 340,000 acres or 1,600 sq. kilometers of dry scrub forest near the southern end of the Bahoruco Mountains. 130 species of native birds, about 60 percent of the Dominican Republic's entire avian community, reside here in this one park. There are no tourist facilities here of any kind, so hardly anyone (minus very lucky biennial attendees) ever come to this park. Ironically, the most spectacular beaches of the Dominican Republic are found in Jaragua National Park. This fact might lead to future development, but for now the whole area is strictly protected. - (11:56am) And we're off! My group of five: Jeff & Andrea Searle, Jim & Judy Glock, and myself lifted off close to noon. I took this parting shot over Jim Glock's shoulder and out the window as the helicopter gained altitude. - (11:57am) An aerial view of the Jaragua National Park, as we flew to the forward landing site. - (12:00pm) A huge sense of shock and awe fell over the passenger compartment of the helicopter as we all reacted to seeing hundreds, thousands of Pseudophoenix ekmanii everywhere! And I do mean everywhere. It was hard to fathom the sight, as this palm is so slow in cultivation, and ultra rare as a result. One attendee easily summed up the experience as "mind-blowing". - (12:00pm) The helicopter began its decent, and I kept on taking pictures. This photo was taken as the helicopter pitched backward to slow our momentum. Those bright-white internodes of Pseudophoenix ekmanii can be seen from a good distance away. Ryan

2006 IPS Biennial - DR Day 5 - Wednesday, October 4th Jaragua National Park - (11:16am) As the helicopters returned, more of Group B (Green) left for the site. Hard to depict in the photo, but the helicopter was idling, so everyone had to follow the procedure of keeping their heads down and taking their hats off. On the right side of the photo are forum members Jack Sayers (elHoagie) and Jon Kenahan (Bilbo). - (11:18am) Former IPS Vice President Leland Lai and myself trade photographs. - (11:20am) The majority of Group B (Green) waiting for our turns to go. Jeff & Andrea Searle watching a helicopter lift off, with Jim Glock behind them watching another one fly away in the distance. - (11:20am) During the biennial, there were many occasions to mingle with the locals, and it was very enjoyable and educational. One attendee, expeditionary guide Randall Quirk, brought several soccer balls to the Dominican Republic to give as gifts. Here is one view of his generosity in action. For those of you who I know will ask, yes there is a small air pump in the bag with the soccer ball. Ryan

2006 IPS Biennial - DR Day 5 - Wednesday, October 4th Barahona - Jaragua National Park This day began with a high level of enthusiasm that spread throughout all attendees. As we all knew we would be travelling to Jaragua National Park to see Pseudophoenix ekmanii in habitat. For many attendees, including myself, this was an incredible experience to connect with this wonderful palm. This species has held the attention of botanical gardens, growers, and collectors for many years, ever since it was first described. Along the way to the park, we stopped halfway to see a stretch of lush coastline where Sabal domingensis grows wild. - (6:48am) Sunrise at Hotel Costa Larimar. - (6:49am) A wide angle shot of the hotel's main courtyard, taken from a top floor balcony. The other modern building is on the right, with the second floor patio area on the left. - (9:16am) The different group buses departed the hotel in staggered times, so each group could stop here to see the coastline. I was unable to see any signs of where we were, but based on the terrain and landmarks I figured we were near the town of Paraiso, halfway between Barahona and Oviedo along Route 44. Judy Norris and Leland Lai are on the left, forum member Jon Kenahan (Bilbo) [center, white hat], then in order: attendees Rob Branch, George Yao, John Greenleaf, and forum member Jack Sayers (elHoagie). - (9:17am) Same location as above, shot in reverse. Houston Chapter President Paul Norris is readying his camera as I used mine. Forum member Scott Walkowicz (aztropic) [far right in blue] uses his camera as well. Ryan

2006 IPS Biennial - DR Day 4 - Tuesday, October 3rd Barrera, Azua near Sierra Martin Garcia Mountain Range At 12:30 PM, Group B (Green) arrived at the site, and what a sight it was. For many years the few photos seen in magazines and journals of Coccothrinax boschiana were from this very place. It was a great sense of connection to see this palm in habitat. - My group arrives at the site, where a large set of tents had been set up to shade us from the sun. The sun wasn't that bad for us Florida people, but some others did have certain reactions. When we arrived, Group A (Blue) was in the middle of their lunch. The narrow part of the trail that the safari vehicles took here, only allowed one vehicle to travel at one time. This created a small delay in getting the groups in and out. In the distance behind the tent, you can see the trademark group of Coccothrinax boschiana at the cliffs. - Just up the hill from the tent was this large group of Coccothrinax boschiana. There is a attendee there among them in the green hat. - Near the edge of the coast, there was a trail that led up into the hill to see the palms up close. Here is attendee Ron Kiefert starting the climb. - A close up of the group near the cliffs. The harsh conditions of the coastline give testament to how incredibly adaptable this palm is. Ryan

2006 IPS Biennial - DR Day 4 - Tuesday, October 3rd Barrera, Azua near Sierra Martin Garcia Mountain Range - During the 30 minute trip to the second staging area, we had a few sections of paved roads. This shot was taken right through the front of the safari vehicle. Those are the Sierra Martin Garcia mountains in the distance. - Eventually all paved roads end. This photo was taken at a particularly bumpy section of a very narrow trail. Spiny branches would occasionally whip through and nail the unsuspecting, so we all learned to lean forward a bit. - Relief and relaxation comes over the attendees as we arrived at the second staging area, but we are only two-thirds of the way to the site. We have a short hike over uneven terrain to go. At this point we are deep in the thorny scrub forest that dominates the coastal region. - A well cut path guides us to the site. The weather was truly perfect for this, we could not have asked for better conditions. Claude Roatta (red shirt) follows the path along with forum member Kathryn Ostadal (Kathryn), and Paul Norris. Ryan

2006 IPS Biennial - DR Day 4 - Tuesday, October 3rd Santo Domingo - Azua On Tuesday, we all ate breakfast at the el Embajador Hotel and soon afterwards left for Barahona, to the second hotel of the biennial. Along the way we traveled to Barrera, in the Azua province to see wild populations of Coccothrinax boschiana. This point in the biennial represented our first long bus ride, and it was quite enjoyable, on the Green Bus that is. The talk was heavy with biennial stories, who's got what palms in their collection, and numerous jokes all all kinds. - Early on Tuesday morning, as the sun rose I was taking photos of the landscape as I shot this one of the el Embajador Hotel from the sea side. We all had to check out from the hotel, even though we would be returning in a few days. - After a two hour drive we arrived in Barrera, a small town southwest of Azua. A make-shift staging area was made not far from a natural gas storage facility. This is where we changed to the safari 4-wheel drive vehicles that took us to the second staging area closer to the coast. You can see all our luggage on the Green bus. That is Paul Norris on the left, with Jim Glock in the center, standing in front of Andrea Searle. - After a short wait, the safari vehicles returned from the second staging area, after dropping off Group A (Blue). Here is part of my Group B (Green) being loaded onto one of three safari vehicles. That is our tour guide Franklin, on the lower right corner in the white shirt. He spoke English, French, German, and of course Spanish. He was extremely informative. - Since hardly anyone ever comes out to this area, many local townspeople came out to watch us and say hello. Ryan

2006 IPS Biennial - DR Day 3 - Monday, October 2nd Guavaberry Golf & Country Club After a short climb up a rickety spiral staircase, most attendees took in the surrounding view by way of the clubhouse tower. - A shot of the main entrance from the tower, showing numerous Acrocomia aculeata. - A closeup of one group of fairly large A. aculeata, many of which where in flower and fruit. - The tower became crowded as many wanted to see the view. Attendee Dan Keys (center) discusses the view with Bill & Paulette Sears. All three are Society members from South Florida. - Back on the main level, Jeff Searle describes just how big the palm was to attendee Tobias Spanner of rarepalmseeds.com. Ryan

2006 IPS Biennial - DR Day 3 - Monday, October 2nd Guavaberry Golf & Country Club - My table at the end of lunch, and at the beginning of several interesting discussions. From left to right: forum member Joseph (Ortanique), Jeff & Andrea Searle, Houston Chapter President Paul Norris, and Judy & Jim Glock. - Outside near the bar, sit attendees Geri Prall and Rob Branch. - The well landscaped and maintained pool area behind the clubhouse, with more Acrocomia aculeata in the background. - The same area as above, shot in reverse. The tower at the top of the clubhouse presented a unique view of the area. Ryan

2006 IPS Biennial - DR Day 3 - Monday, October 2nd Guavaberry Golf & Country Club We left the National Botanic Garden and headed east along the southern coast for about an hour and reached Juan Dolio, about 45 miles away from Santo Domingo. - The entrance to the Guavaberry Golf & Country Club. - Throughout the country club there were hundreds of large, mature Acrocomia aculeata. This expansive collection of this spiny species was an incredible sight. - After leaving the buses, we made our way to the central clubhouse, where lunch was being prepared. - All the biennial attendees sitting down to an excellent lunch. Ryan

2006 IPS Biennial - DR Day 3 - Monday, October 2nd National Botanic Garden, Dr. Rafael Ma. Moscoso At around 10:30 AM, we all boarded our respected buses and head east to the small coastal town of Juan Dolio where we would eat lunch and enjoy the landscaping of the Guavaberry Golf & Country Club. - One group resting near the gift shop waiting to board their buses. In the center is newly elected IPS Vice President John DeMott talking with South Florida member Ken St. Germain. - California nursery owner and forum member Jerry Andersen (jdapalms) and his wife Cynthia talking with palm seed distributor Tobias Spanner, creator of the popular rarepalmseeds.com website. - We leave the garden behind and board our buses for the next trip ahead. My bus, the already infamous Green Bus, had already begun to get its own aromas. I'll leave to you to think of what they were. - a lone Hispaniolan Royal Palm, Roystonea hispaniolana (borinquena), survives among the hustle of the Santo Domingo traffic. Ryan

2006 IPS Biennial - DR Day 3 - Monday, October 2nd National Botanic Garden, Dr. Rafael Ma. Moscoso Working our way back towards the entrance, we took notice of many of the plants around the front of the garden. - This unusual plant caught the attention of many biennial attendees. This is Clavija domingensis, an endemic member of the Theophrastaceae family. It is heavily endangered in the wild. - Not far from the above plant was this excellent specimen of Pseudophoenix lediniana with Jeff Searle. - Jeff Searle posing a branch from the croton 'Commotion'. - The groups arriving back at the garden entrance waiting to be called back to our buses. Here is forum member Jack (elHoagie) with forum member Joseph (Ortanique) . Ryan

2006 IPS Biennial - DR Day 3 - Monday, October 2nd National Botanic Garden, Dr. Rafael Ma. Moscoso In one large central area of the garden, was a palm rich 'glade' stretching over a few small hills. The majority of the garden's palms where located here, and the tram stopped to let us off to view them. - A large group of mature Blue Latan Palms, Latania loddigesii. - A closeup of a very tall Coccothrinax argentea, one of many excellent specimens. - A mature Syagrus schizophylla showing near ripe fruit. - One of the small depressions held this group of Licuala grandis, that have adapted to growing in full sun. That is Jeff Searle walking away on the right. Ryan

2006 IPS Biennial - DR Day 2 - Sunday, October 1st As the day turned into night, the Biennial festivities started to churn to life. Around 6:30 pm, many attendees started to meet each other in the hotel lobby, and the one bartender quickly became overwhelmed. - One of many shots of the bar in action. - The outside meeting area behind the hotel, La Galeria, where we all officially started the Biennial during the Welcome Cocktail. In the middle, is Dr. John Dransfield. - The Welcome Cocktail in full swing, with collector extraordinaires Ray & Theresa Gompf (in matching wear as usual) talking with Paul Craft. - The Welcome Dinner which was preceded by introductions and presentations. Ryan

2006 IPS Biennial - DR Day 2 - Sunday, October 1st On sunday morning, we headed out to explore the Old Town of Santo Domingo. - A view of the hotel entrance. - A shot of the lobby just inside the main entrance to the el Embajador Hotel, showing the huge flower arrangement that greeted us each time we returned. - After a short taxi ride, we arrived at the El Conde Gate, which was also the beginning of Calle el Conde, a street lined with stores, kiosks, and all sorts of people. The el Conde Gate is a favorite site among Dominicans, it was the place where the March for Independance originated in 1844. Many sites were found throughout the streets of the Colonial Zone, one of the most impressive had to be the oldest cathedral in the western hemisphere, the Catedral Primada de América, or its full translated name is the Holy Metropolitan Cathedral Basilica of our Lady Holy Mary of the Incarnation. The construction began around 1516 and was completed near 1526. Ryan

2006 IPS Biennial - DR Day 1 - Saturday, Sept. 30th For most of us who arrived early, Saturday was spent relaxing and unpacking. There were many other who arrived even earlier than we did, and took excursions to different places throughout the country. - Speaking of 'el Presidente' beer, here is IPS President Paul Craft [licuala], Jim Glock, and Andrea Searle all enjoying the aforementioned beverage in the hotel lobby. For many attendees, their use of the Spanish language was limited, but "Uno más Cerveza, por favor" was one phrase quickly learned. - My group and I sitting down for lunch at the Las Porches Restaurant near the pool area of the hotel. We are trying to describe what a 'hamburger' is to the waiter. - Later that afternoon, the five of us (Jeff Searle, Jim & Judy Glock, Andrea Searle & myself) relaxing in the hotel lobby contemplating what to do for the rest of the day. - The rest of the day turned into a dip in the pool at night. Jim & Judy Glock expressing the finer points of biennial atmosphere to forum member Kathryn [Kathryn]. Ryan