President's Column
Harold Greer
Eugene, Oregon
It is now autumn and most of our chapters are again meeting after a summer recess. It is time to think about membership for the coming year. Our membership is the highest it has ever been, but let us not sit on our laurels, instead we should go out and pursue additional membership with great vigor. I'm sure I sound like a broken record, but just think what would happen if each of us could find just one new member, we would double our membership instantly.
With a large membership, the society could do much more for all of our members. For example, a larger Journal with more color could be published. Since much of the cost of printing the Journal is in the preparation for printing, a larger number of Journals printed causes the cost per Journal to decrease. So finding a new member for the ARS benefits both you as a current member and the new member who is introduced to the joys of rhododendrons and azaleas.
Remember our membership dues are now $21.00, but you receive a $1.00 discount if you renew by December 1st. New members are allowed this $1.00 discount when they join at any time of the year.
Seeing an organization like ours grow is great. It is also nice to be a part of an organization that exists to improve the world we live in by spreading the plants we love so much. Did you ever think that being a member of the ARS benefits the world we live in? It does, and speaking from experience, I can say that you are a great group of people.
It is such a joy to attend the regional and national conventions, and to experience fellowship with people who are so warm and friendly. If you haven't attended one of these meetings, I urge you to do so, you will find it an enjoyable experience. I especially urge you to attend the National Convention in Victoria, British Columbia next spring. It promises to be one of the best! I look forward to meeting you there.