ARES IS LAUNCHED
Dear Friends,
I am pleased to announce the launch of a new organization, the sole purpose of which is to promote the public exhibition of roses in their most perfect phase of possible beauty. It will be known as the “American Rose Exhibitors Society” and by the acronym “ARES” (which in addition to being the Greek god of war, is also the name of the class of rocket that is being designed to take America back to the moon to build a base for a launch to Mars.)
ARES will publish, in print and by e-mail distribution, "Rose Exhibitors’ Quarterly" under the editorship of Robert Sutherland and myself. ARES will publish an annual review of new show roses under the title "Horizon Roses", with me continuing as the National Editor. ARES will maintain its website at www.RoseShow.com which will continue to publish the results of all American rose shows and provide vital information to exhibitors. And, ARES will maintain a current e-mail list to provide exhibitors other current information.
A statement of the Twelve Principles upon which ARES will exist is here. As will be seen here, it is proposed to have a minimal organization, free of politics. I have volunteered to serve as its first Executive Director. And, based upon the expressions of interest I have already received, I am confident it will attract a large number of exhibitors interested in preserving the part of our rose hobby that we all love.
ARES is not opposed to anything or any organization. It has no opinion on outside issues. It has not been formed to attack the American Rose Society nor to add to the exodus of its remaining members. We want to grow and show good roses. We want to share our knowledge of the science and art of growing and showing good roses. And, we firmly believe that the best way to keep our love of showing roses is to pass it on to the new exhibitor.
I want to know of your support. Will you agree to join us as this great adventure goes forward? If the answer to that question is “YES!” I want you to write and tell me at PetRose@aol.com
Yours in roses,
Bob Martin