NE Regional Conference, Oct. 24-26, Allentown, Pennsylvania
Bob Wilkinson
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Oct. 24-26: Mark your calendar now for this fall's gathering of rhodoholics, enthusiasts and friends. Hosted by ARS District 8 chapters: Greater Philadelphia, Lehigh Valley, Pine Barrens, Susquehanna Valley, and Valley Forge, we welcome you to our piece of Rhodieland. The conference will feature a variety of programs, interesting events and a wide range of "dragee" activities.
Programs will kick off Friday night with Clarence Towe, South Carolina, on native azalea species and natural hybrids. Saturday's schedule includes Peter Girard, Girard Nursery, Ohio, on evergreen azaleas; Richard Jaynes, Broken Arrow Nursery, Connecticut, on kalmias; and Richard Lighty, Mt. Cuba Center for the Study of Piedmont Flora, Delaware, on perennials and companion plants. A panel will lead a discussion on species suitable - or not - for the East Coast: George Ring, Virginia, for the southern area, Hank Schannen, Princeton, central, and Richard Brooks, Massachusetts, northern. Gary Moorman, Penn State University plant pathologist, will walk us through rhodie diseases - causes and cures. Our banquet speaker will be Wayne Mezitt, Weston Nurseries, Massachusetts. Sunday's half day program includes Ed Reiley, horticulturist and professional grower, Maryland, on rhododendron care and culture; Joe Marano, Jr., Fort Washington (Pa.) Garden Mart, past president, American Conifer Society, on dwarf conifers for your rhodie garden; and the ever popular Hybridizer's Roundtable will cap the day - all before lunch for an early getaway.
Events before, between and after program sessions include a print Photography Contest; a Foliage Only Contest; a Silent Auction; and a Book Sale. And, yes - there will be a Plant Sale, too. Hundreds of new, rare, exciting species and hybrid rhodies, azaleas and companion plants will be presented for your pleasure. Save room in your heart - and vehicle - for a few of these choice offerings.
The Greater Allentown area is a gateway to Pennsylvania Dutch Country delights, shopper's paradise Reading Outlet stores, country-style antiques, and the cool crisp fall color at the scenic Delaware Water Gap and nearby Pocono Mountains. The historical and cultural attractions of Valley Forge and Philadelphia are just a short drive away. A special trip with a local guide is planned to the Hawk Mountain area to watch the annual migration of hawks and other raptors from scenic vantage points.
The conference site will be Day's Inn in Allentown, Pa. Reasonable rates have been obtained to encourage your attendance. It's easily accessible via the Northeast Extension of the Pennsylvania Turnpike; Interstate 78/US Route 22 or Allentown International airport.