FROM STAFF REPORTS

LOCUST VALLEY, NY – The American Gardens Rose Selections testing program has announced the addition of Helena local Chris VanCleave to its board of trustees as the organization’s director of marketing and publicity, according to a release from the organization.

“Chris brings years of experience in marketing to the AGRS,” Chairperson of the AGRS Pat Shanley said. “His hands-on experience with successfully growing roses, along with his national presence as a rose gardening expert is a valuable asset to the organization.”

VanCleave is a popular speaker, television personality and tireless advocate for the rose. He currently serves as the chairman of the Helena Beautification Board where he and the board have worked to create a sustainable landscape in this town of 18,000 just south of Birmingham. He serves as rosarian in residence for the Earth Kind Rose Trials in Helena, and is also a trustee for the Educational Endowment Trust for the American Rose Society.

The AGRS testing program recognizes roses that are easy to care for, disease-resistant and suitable for different regions of the country by conducting testing at various sites around the nation. By recognizing and recommending the best garden-worthy rose varieties for the various regions of the United States through testing, the AGRS has the goal of providing objective and reliable information to the general public.

To learn more about the American Garden Rose Selections, visit Americangardenroseselections.com.