By Janet Black AIFD, Historian
Newport Beach Marriott Hotel and Tennis Club July 27-30, 1990
Jack Smith AIFD was the 1989-1990 National AIFD® President. Inducted in 1977, Jack owned French’s Flowers and Gifts in Livonia, Michigan. He was a member of the Southern Chapter, Membership Committee, Finance Committee, and was on the board of Trustees of the AIFD Foundation.
Allen Beck AIFD was the Symposium Coordinator for the Newport Beach Symposium. Allen served as the National President in 1987-1988. He was inducted in 1977 and participated in FTD Americas Cup finals. He was the designer for Flowers by Morri in Costa Mesa and later became the owner of Allen Beck Florist in Newport Beach, CA. In 1985, Allen was awarded an Honorary Membership in the AIFD® Gordon Chapter. He was a trustee of the AIFD Foundation. Allen currently lives in Mexico.
Bill Taylor AIFD was the Program Coordinator in 1990. Bill’s first job in a floral shop was at the age of 13! After attending college Bill opened Taylor’s of Sonoma in 1977 and was inducted into AIFD® in 1978. He was the chairman of the North West Region when it was being developed in 1983. A Past President of AIFD®, 1988-1989, Bill was a feature designer in numerous symposiums and holds the Award of Distinguished Service to AIFD® known as Fellow. Bill resides in Twinsburng, OH.
The 1990 Symposium was kicked off with “Dancing and Fellowship” hosted by the North Central and Northeast Regional Chapters. The next morning there was a breakfast bar for everyone attending to enjoy.
An interesting program was called “Vessels,” featuring ceramics by Denise Lee AIFD, glass by David Siders AIFD, baskets by George DeBruin AIFD, fabrics by Dick Seekins AIFD, painting by Herb Mitchell AIFD, faux finishes by Leroy Miller AIFD and Parry Sanee AIFD.
The black-tie Leadership Gala was entitled “Tropical Candlelight” and the décor was created by Ken Senter AIFD. The creative Symposium Brochure was a nautical poster, ready for a keepsake for mounting. Programs and designer information were displayed on the reverse side. Thank you Allen Beck for your Symposium Brochure and your AIFD® memories.
