John Fleming: “November 20 of this year marks 30 years since President Ronald Reagan signed a proclamation declaring the rose as the…”

“November 20 of this year marks 30 years since President Ronald Reagan signed a proclamation declaring the rose as the National Floral Emblem of the United States of America. The rose takes its rightful place as one of our Nation's symbols, along with the American flag, our national motto--In God We Trust--and our national anthem. Based in Shreveport, Louisiana, the American Rose Society promotes the appreciation of the rose and proudly bears the heritage of being the oldest single-plant horticultural society in our country. The American Rose Center's gardens also display over 65 separate gardens and 20,000 different rosebushes for visitors, enthusiasts, and gardeners to all enjoy. I join the American Rose Society in celebrating this occasion, remembering the words of President Ronald Reagan from 30 years ago: ``The American people have long held a special place in their hearts for roses. Let us continue to cherish them, to honor the love and devotion they represent, and to bestow them on all we love just as God has bestowed them on us.'' ____________________”