Bronze Medal Awards
TACOMA CHAPTER
Bob Ward
The Tacoma Chapter of the American Rhododendron Society is pleased to present the Bronze Medal to Bob Ward. Bob Ward has been one of the Tacoma Chapter "Behind The Scenes workers in the true sense. Because of conflicting work hours, Bob is rarely able to attend the regular Tacoma Chapter meetings. However, come show time, the show chairman can count on an offer from Bob saying, "I'm taking the week off - can I help?" More than a year before the International Convention in Tacoma, Bob was out with his stopwatch and tape measure plotting every movement for the convention tour busses. To the degree that the tours went as smoothly as they did and were such a success is due to Bob's anticipation of any possible problem. Bob never takes a job that it isn't done to perfection. Always willing to help, he is one of the quiet "doers" that makes the Tacoma Chapter so special. December 4, 1993.
Marlene Buffington
The Tacoma Chapter of the American Rhododendron Society is pleased to present the Bronze Medal to Marlene Buffington. Marlene Buffington is a longtime driving force for rhododendron appreciation in the Tacoma area. She has held virtually every job in our sister organization, The Pacific Rhododendron Society, and has been, over the years, in large part responsible for the splendor of our joint show, coordinating the garden displays and plant sales. To encourage the younger generation, she has made a great effort to include a juvenile display section. She is a strong supporter of The Rhododendron Species Foundation where she is a regular volunteer. In addition, Marlene co-authored the reference:
Selected Rhododendron Glossary and Botanical Terms
. When Tacoma was chosen as the site for the 1993 International Rhododendron Convention, Marlene stepped forward and accepted the awesome responsibility to co-chair the event. A superb organizer, Marlene set the goal and achieved a nearly flawless, spectacular and fun gathering for the world's rhododendron lovers. We truly appreciate her efforts. December 4, 1993.