About the Hawai'i Chapter of ARS The Hawaii Chapter of the ARS was founded just over 10 years ago on the Big Island of Hawai'i. Founding members included Mitch Mitchell, Charles Trommer, Charles Martin, Sherla Bertelmann and Richard Marques, along with many other enthusiasts. At this time, the chapter has grown to over 80 members. Chapter meetings are held the 3rd Sunday of each month, typically at the Kea'au Community Center. The meetings typically include a truss exchange, an educational program, and a plant auction. The meeting starts with on the the chapters' legendary potlucks! Vireya people not only grow great plants, but eat very well! One main focus of the chapter's mission is education about vireyas. The chapter maintains a vireya garden at the Pana'ewa Rainforest Zoo and Garden outside of Hilo, and puts on an annual educational event which includes a seminar and free plants. Additionally, the chapter has hosted Vireya seminars featuring speakers from around the world on the topic of Vireyas. The seminars are semi-annual, and include visits to vireya gardens and fellowship gatherings. We have hosted one Western Regional ARS convention, and will be doing a second this coming September, 2008. Current Board: President: Ray Schimpf Vice-President: vacant, but interim assistance by Jane Adams Secretary: Jurahame Leyva Treasurer: Maryjean Horton Past-President: John Barbour Director: Sherla Bertelmann Director: Bette Wakabayashi Director: Ron Phillips Director-Emiritus: Mitch Mitchell Vireya Links: American Rhododendron Society: http://www.rhododedndron.org Rhododendron Species Foundation: http://www.rhodygarden.org Chris Callard's Vireya site: http://www.vireya.net Where to buy Vireyas: Bovees Nursery: http://www.bovees.com Pacific Island Nursery: http://www.pacificislandnursery.com White Cloud Nursery: http://www.whitecloudnursery.com Rhododendron Species Foundation: http://rhodygarden.org