QBARS - v31n1 The ARS 1976 Medal Awards and Citations

The American Rhododendron Society
1976 Medal Awards and Citations

TO ALFRED S. MARTIN
Mountaintop, Pennsylvania

Scholar, teacher, businessman, rhododendron connoisseur and grower all describe you - Alfred Martin. For long a member of the Philadelphia Chapter, a tireless worker on local and regional committees, you actively worked to further the status of rhododendrons and the American Rhododendron Society throughout the Delaware Valley and the East. It is, however, at the national level where you have contributed even more significantly to the American Rhododendron Society.

During your tenure as National President from 1973 through 1975, you led the revision of the A.R.S. Board policies and subsequently compiled in book form the by-laws, the finalization of the group tax exemption program and the minutes of meetings of the board and made this book available to the officers and directors of the Society. All this, plus your behind the scenes, supportive efforts of encouragement, advice and planning have left us with a sturdy framework upon which to build in the future.

Your outstanding leadership and warm personality, together with your marvelous sense of humor, will long be remembered. The American Rhododendron Society takes pride in presenting its highest honor to ALFRED S. MARTIN

TO THEODORE V. VAN VEEN

Portland, Oregon

In recognition of his dedication to the goals and welfare of our society, we pay tribute to Ted Van Veen. He has served long and well in many capacities - always with outstanding competence.

A plantsman of exceptional ability he has worked to improve the quality and availability of choice Rhododendrons for our gardens. He has been generous in sharing his professional expertise so that others could have the benefit of his experience. His book, Rhododendrons in America, is a welcome addition to the literature on the genus.

He has given freely of his time as a judge, as a frequent speaker, and as an active participant in the affairs of the Portland Chapter. His organizational skills made the annual meeting of 1974 one of the best in our history. As a member of the National Board, his voice has always been one of quiet reason and informed opinion. He presently serves as Secretary-Treasurer of that body.

For all these contributions to our common good, we are grateful. His talents have enriched our gardens, his friendship has enriched our lives.

The American Rhododendron Society is pleased to present its highest honor to THEODORE V. VAN VEEN

TO ERNEST H. YELTON

Rutherfordton, North Carolina

Since acting as cofounder of the Southeastern Chapter in 1957, you have contributed vigorously and consistently to the Society, and to the advancement of the practical understanding of the rhododendron culture in the Southeastern United States.

You have served as president of your local chapter and have been a frequent show judge and speaker throughout the region. Through contributions to the Bulletin, you have been able to share your knowledge gained through long personal experience as a hybridizer and grower of rhododendrons.

In assisting in the formation of the Piedmont Chapter, acting as program chairman of the 1967 National Convention in Asheville, North Carolina, and in the wide distribution of your own plant material, you have given generously of yourself. You continue to do so as a frequent contributor to the Seed Exchange and as a member of the National Board of Directors.

The American Rhododendron Society is pleased to present its Silver Medal to ERNEST H. YELTON, M.D.