Dr. Robert L. Ticknor, New Secretary-Treasurer
Mrs. Ruth M. Hansen, Secretary
Ruth M. Hansen, Secretary-Treasurer of The American Rhododendron Society since 1947 tendered her resignation as of May 1, 1964. She was the second Secretary-Treasurer in the history of the Society, Mr. George Grace having served in that capacity from the date the society was founded until the election of Mrs. Hansen. During these years of increasing membership of the Society Mrs. Hansen handled its business details and kept in close touch with the Chapters as they developed and extended the influence of the Society. She was very much interested in the National Test Garden in Portland and was instrumental in securing for the Garden many of the fine plants now established there. The Board of Directors met on June 7 to elect a new Secretary-Treasurer as required by the By-laws. It was the feeling of the Board that most of the administrative and editorial details should be concentrated in one office. Accordingly the Board elected Dr. Robert L. Ticknor, Aurora, Oregon, to fill out Mrs. Hansen's unexpired term as Secretary-Treasurer, and at the same time asked Dr. J. Harold Clarke to serve, on a part time basis, as Executive Secretary and Editor of the Society's publications. Questions concerning membership, dues, publications and other details of administration should be directed to the Executive Secretary. This action by the Board brings the Society in line with most of the other national plant societies in having an Executive Secretary to handle the day to day business items. Dr. Clarke is not a member of the Board, having resigned as an officer and board member when he accepted the position of Editor almost a year ago.