JARS v41n3 - 1988 National Convention

1988 National Convention
Thrill To The Present Glory In The Past
Austin Kennell, Waynesboro, Virginia

Colonial Williamsburg, Virginia, May 11 to 15, 1988, is the setting and date for an American Rhododendron Society Convention that no lover of the genus Rhododendron and the American heritage should miss. The beauty and unequalled diversity of the genus, present and future amid the romantic aura of America's colorful past will be woven into a truly unique and rewarding experience that you will long remember and cherish.

This is not only an opportunity to enjoy a terrific convention but is also an exceptional chance to have a fantastic vacation. Bring the whole family and come to America's history land early or stay later. Combine the excitement and fun of an ARS convention with visits to some of the best vacation spots anywhere.

Virginia - where our singular country was born at Jamestown, forged on freedom's anvil at Yorktown, and reborn to its great destiny at Appomattox. Virginia - where uncommon valor was common at forever hallowed places with names like Bull Run, Yorktown, The Wilderness, Chancellorsville, Spotsylvania. Virginia - land of Washington, Jefferson, Madison, Lee, Jackson - names that are indelibly inscribed in the minds and hearts of Americans.

The plantations and the slave quarters; the charming towns and quiet settlements; the craftsmen and their wares; the authentic costumes and settings are vivid evidence of days gone by. The storied Shenandoah Valley; the nostalgic Blue Ridge Mountains; the historic Chesapeake Bay, the recreational Tidewater and Northern Neck, the charming Eastern Shore and the mountainous Southwest Highlands provide an unsurpassed selection of attractions.

The flora in the several climate zones is an eye-opening kaleidoscope. There are mountainsides and mountaintops of native azaleas, rhododendrons, laurel, and countless other plants. The valleys and meadows are alive with plant life. There are acre after acre of beautifully landscaped formal gardens and charming small gardens. Evergreen azaleas abound in yards, parks, waysides and campuses, and in special profusion at places like the Norfolk Botanical Garden where the famous Azalea Festival is held. The many nurseries and private gardens of members of the ARS in all parts of Virginia will be points of special interest for ARS conventioneers.

The convention itself will be exciting and informative. It will be held at the Fort Magruder Inn and Convention Center, a conveniently located modern motel with state-of-the-art convention facilities. The program is designed to be easy on the nerves, feet, and posteriors. The Chapter's convention staff is committed to make your attendance interesting, friendly, and trouble-free.

There is a wide selection of tours so you can choose those which best fill your interests. Modern, clean, comfortable buses each directed by a knowledgeable bus captain will make trips enjoyable as well as interesting.

The various "in-house" programs feature speakers especially chosen for topic interest, speaking ability, and presentation technique.

There are old favorites - a Flower Show to display the beauty and diversity of the genus from many areas - and a Breeders Roundtable to tell us what is new and exciting in hybridizing. Yes, there will be plants for sale - over 5,000 - including many new introductions such as 'Williamsburg 88' at very attractive prices.

The best news is that time has been allowed for just plain "peoplizing" with the greatest group of folks anywhere. You'll renew old acquaintances and make new ones. We want to make your visit with us the best it can be.