Submitted by Alan Parkhurst AIFD
Alan Parkhurst AIFD used the term paper from his senior year in high school to open his flower shop in his hometown of Medina, Ohio at the age of 19 and graduating from Hixson’s School in Lakewood, Ohio. Hixson’s uniquely introduced each graduate with a membership in SAF and that was his introduction and beginning of a long-standing relationship.
Graduating from several master’s classes in Europe and America and assisting well known designers with shows, Alan hit the stage traveling the US and Canada presenting over 350 educational floral shows including two national AIFD symposium. A former Smither’s Oasis ambassador, Teleflora unit president, and member of the former AFS Education services team, he was also a contributing artist for a decade with the renowned Professional Floral Designer magazine. In addition, Alan was an Americas Cup national finalist in 1984.
Alan Parkhurst AIFD PFCI instructor, Edward Coggins, David Webster
Alan was site chairman for Pres Reagan’s inaugural and also helped with both Bush presidential inaugurations all with the coordination of SAF. Alan went on to contribute to two books “ All about Flowers” and Flowers are Forever” by Kathy Lamencusa and also appeared on her PBS television shows of the same name. His television appearances also include the renowned early tv morning show “The Morning Exchange” in Cleveland, Ohio and “Good Morning Youngstown”.
AFS Rep not identified, Alan Parkhurst AIFD PFCI commentator, Els Teunesin AIFD, Tim Rettger AIFD, Ken Fetgatter AIFD
Alan has served AIFD on regional and national boards, as well as being the national treasurer in 1989. He has served SAF PFCI as board member two terms, as well as chairman for the last. Being involved with SAF and AIFD have served him well, mixing with some of the industry’s finest and hardest working, as well as most talented in the floral industry.
Bill Harper AIFD, Susan McKnight AIFD, Kathy Whalen AIFD, Alan Parkhurst AIFD PFCI, Jack Richards AAF AIFD, Frank Dowling AIFD, Charlie Groppeti AIFD
About this Hall of Fame award, Alan shares, “the Medina High School’s Hall of Fame only consists of graduates of our school system, including many dignitaries of political, sports, culture and arts.”
“I am honored to have been chosen and could not have done all the great things I was honored for without the help of my parents, family and most especially my coworkers. They are, in fact, the ones that held the store to the high standards of freshness, design and customer care. The opportunities that came my way because I was involved in the industry, and most especially thru involvement with SAF and AIFD, were priceless to my career and so very memorable.”
Michi Burell AIFD, Pierre Methot AIFD, Els Hazenburg AIFD, Betty Walton AIFD
