Philadelphia Chapter Show
Emerson A. Reed, Media, Pennsylvania
Cut truss shows were resumed last year as part of the scheduled program of the Philadelphia Chapter. This was sparked as a forward-looking effort to gain experience in this phase of Rhododendronitis, preparatory for the events of the 1976 convention. Highly desirable ancillary effects have been to add new dimensions to the knowledge and pleasures of the exhibitors, as well as to educate the viewers.
The show this year was held on May 10-11, in association with an annual affair of the Morris Arboretum of the University of Pennsylvania. This cooperative association proved quite successful in leading spectators to our exhibit.
Fourteen participants entered a total of 102 specimens. Each person had at least one award-winning entry. The John C. Wister Rhododendron Trophy and Plaque for the best truss in the show were awarded for the truss of 'Beauty of Littleworth', entered by Dr. Gustave Landt of Norristown, Pa. The John Shamenek Sweepstakes Trophy and Plaque were won by Dr. and Mrs. Franklin West of Gladwyne, Pa. Their entries won 8 first awards, 3 second and 2 third awards.
Cooler weather and an earlier date than last year resulted in a different display, as well as fewer entries. Azaleas and other smaller and earlier varieties predominated. This had led to consideration of intentionally adjusting the dales in alternate future years to include many sorts that otherwise never would have a chance to be entered in a show.
The varieties with the most entries were 'Dayspring' (4), 'Dora Amateis' (4), 'Windbeam' (4), 'Racemosum' (3), newly-created hybrids (4).
The Chapter now is looking forward to joining with the Princeton and Valley Forge Chapters in the show for the 1976 convention. This will be held in the beautiful headquarters of the American Baptist Convention, just a few minutes walk from the new hotel which is to be the site of the A.R.S. convention in historic Valley Forge.
Show judges were Lewis Bagoly, Charles Herbert, Robert Huber and Lloyd Partain. Sincere thanks are due to Gordon Brandes, Director of the Morris Arboretum, and his staff for the facilities and assistance made available to us.