Established in 1970, we are a not-for-profit organization dedicated to promoting and furthering the cultivation and use of tropical and rare fruit in South Florida and throughout the world.

President's Message

Hello Everyone!

So far, the Universe continues to look out for South Florida. We have had 2-Major Hurricanes sweep by us without any damage! Hopefully, this is symbolic of Covid-19 moving away from the people of Palm Beach County, however Labor Day is coming up and the actions of many will affect the livelihood of most. Yet,we continue to caution everyone to wear your masks, keep your social distance and wash your hands frequently. If all goes well, perhaps, Palm Beach County will allow us to return to the Mounts Auditorium for our in-person meetings with specific guidelines in October, if the Phase 2 - Restrictions hold steady. In the meantime, it has been wonderful to see those of you who have been able to join us for our Virtual Club Meetings on Google or hear from you on the conference call line! The next meeting is this Friday, 9/11/20 at 7:30pm sharp.

September is the end of the  RFC Club fiscal year and the month when we will vote on the 2020 - 2021 RFC Board. It has been an honor and privilege to serve the past 2-years as your president. However, on this Friday, 9/11, I will pass the baton on to the new president and take on the role as the Immediate Past President. Special Shout Outs to Mr. Dennis Pleticha who has been a rock of support throughout my tenure. Hats off to the entire RFC Board, Ms. Fatima NeJame for always being available to help whenever she is called upon without question, Advisory Board Members - Har Mardeem who always has words of encouragement, CG Carthom for her sense of humor & determination, Jane Lee for her hospitality, Greg Spencer - Newsletter Guru & Herman Lawrence, Apprentice and each of you. We could not have made it this far without you!

I am hopeful some of you will step up to the plate to assist with the following committees moving into this new chapter of the RFC Club.

Horticultural Education Group is responsible for the dissemination of horticultural information with a focus on propagation programs, conduct classes/training, pertinent workshops, field trips. To assemble and maintain an up-to-date list of members who qualify as Master Growers.

Hospitality Crew AKA the Tasting Table/Kitchen Group duties are to arrange the set-up of the meeting place, prepare and host the refreshments at the meetings.

Program Team primary function is to identify and arrange for the speakers and their introduction at each monthly meeting.

Publicity Task Force are committed to arranging social media for important events sponsored by the Club and get it out to the public in a timely manner.

Speakers Bureau is dedicated to getting the message out in the community about our mission, current goals and how we can collaborate with other liked-minded individuals or appropriate groups.

Your help is requested! When we work together, we can raise the awareness of Palm Beach Chapter of the Rare Fruit Council International to a new level in our communities.

The October 17th Plant Sale at the South Florida Fairgrounds has been Canceled due to the Phase 1 - Covid Restrictions. 

The RFC Board is looking to see you on Google Meet or hear from you on the RFC Conference Call; next Friday, August 14th at 7:30pm.

Always Grateful to Serve,

Your RFC President (2018-2020),   

Debra Marcelle-Coney, Ph.D.    

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