Rose group not just for growers

Members of the Augusta Rose Society have been clearing out closets and attics for their annual auction and sale.

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Augusta Rose Society President Scott Henson said the group's sale and auction will be held July 21 at First Baptist Church of Augusta. The event begins at 7:30 p.m. and includes both live and silent auctions.

"A lot of things are garden-related, but not all items are," said Henson, adding that the sale and auction are open to the public. "We try to build this as an opportunity for members to get rid of things they no longer want."

Proceeds from the sale and auction will cover general operating expenses of the Augusta Rose Society, including educational materials distributed by the group, monthly meeting expenses and fees incurred during the annual rose show.

"It's a great group of folks," said Henson of his fellow society members.

Henson, like many members, began with just a few roses in his yard. At the urging of his wife, Paula, he planted three rose bushes nearly seven years ago. The following year the couple added two more bushes and the year after that they planted 30 bushes.

"At last count we had about 100 bushes," said Henson, who lives off of Furys Ferry Road in Martinez.

But, Henson adds, the Augusta Rose Society isn't just for rose growers. Anyone interested in learning more about roses or who simply likes roses is invited to join the group.

"We are interested in growing not only roses, but also our membership," said Jay Al-Hashimi, vice president and director of programs for the society.

"We have some members who have 500 rose bushes and others who just like looking at roses."

To learn more about the group, visit the its Web site at www.theaugustarosesociety.org.