Tyler

Julie Kidwell Ischy will serve as the new executive director of the Texas Rose Festival, association members decided during the annual meeting held Wednesday at the Tyler Rose Garden Center.

Ms. Ischy is a graduate of Agnes Scott College and holds a degree in international business and minor in business and economics. She has a background in retail management and real estate marketing, according to a written statement issued Thursday by the association.

As a native Tylerite and community volunteer, Ischy will be a valuable leader and asset for the Rose Festival, which relies on community support and hundreds of volunteers each year, the statement read. James C. Wynne III, was elected to serve as the president of the 2008 Rose Festival. He is the owner of TDI Air Conditioning and active in real estate in the Tyler area. He serves on the Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors, the All Saints Episcopal School Board of Directors and as the chairman of the All Saints Property Committee.

Wynne attends Christ Episcopal Church, where he is a member of the Church Vestry. He and his wife, Sharon, have three children, Madeline, Chet and Russell. Other executive committee members elected Wednesday include: Brad Brookshire, vice president-coronation; Chris Simons, vice president-Rose Show and rose activities; Tom Ramey III, vice president-distinguished guests, Vespers services and men's luncheon; and Tim Alexander, treasurer. Also announced were Laura Waits, administrative assistant; and Kevin Braughton, Strutters president. Ms. Ischy's selection follows the departure of longtime director Jennifer Gaston, who resigned last month after 12 years of service.

The Texas Rose Festival will celebrate its 75th anniversary year, Oct. 16-20, 2008. The 2008 rose queen, duchess of the rose growers and ladies-in-waiting of the Tyler court will be introduced Jan. 4 at the Tyler Rose Garden Center during the Winter Gala, which benefits the Tyler Rose Museum.