Present: Kay Buffam, Margaret Edwards, Joan Gotlibson, Vaughn Hardesty, Clair Holman, Rita Lesniak, Frank O’Connor, Clarence Rhodes, Deborah Rumney, Wilma Sarna, Marion Stevens.

The May meeting is the annual rose sale, held this year at Deering Oakes Farmer’s Market. Members arrived, left, and returned according to their schedule for the day. Roses, tables, and a wagon were transported by Clarence, Frank, and Larry McMahon beginning at 7 A.M.

The roses were initially delivered to the home of Clarence Rhodes from supplier Roseland and were pruned and fertilized as reported in the minutes of the April meeting. Beginning with 160 potted roses, Clarence Rhodes sold 40 from his home before the Deering Oakes sale, and 45 were sold at the Farmer’s market. Many roses remain for sale including a couple of this year’s ARS winning rose Hot Cocoa. If you have interest in any of the 75 roses left after the sale contact Clarence Rhodes for possible purchases.

One new member was recruited, with founding member Clair Holman writing out the membership card.

Suggestions for next year’s sale includes:

• Find a way to have pre-sale advertisement for both the roses and the MRS.
• Make a banner proclaiming that the sale represents an activity of the Maine Rose Society. This information positively impacts the attitude of shoppers at the Farmer’s Market who came by the sale, and helped to recruit members.
• Be sure to have change available to facilitate sales.
• Agree to a schedule of attendance and duties to facilitate continuity and enhance sales.

Report by Joan Gotlibson with formatting by Jerry Cinnamon.