(Baltimore, MD) - The NBC Today Show was honored as the recipient of the American Institute of Floral Designers (AIFD) Award of Merit Non-Industry during ceremonies at the Institute's National Symposium in New York City (July 3-7). The award is presented to individuals outside the floral industry who are selected because of their personal or professional use of fresh flowers in such a manner as to be a credit to the floral profession.

The Today Show was honored for generating public awareness of floral design by incorporating the use of floral design it the show's programming. Past winners include the Walt Disney Corporation, Lady Bird Johnson, Nancy Reagan, and the Boston Pops.

George Mitchell AIFD of Mitchell's Orland Park Flowers in Orland Park, IL was presented with the Award of Distinguished Service to AIFD for his outstanding service to the Institute. Mitchell has been a great supporter of AIFD having volunteered countless hours serving as president and twice as symposium chair for the Institute. As a recipient of this award Mitchell now becomes a "Fellow of AIFD" and is granted life membership.

AIFD also presented its Award of Distinguished Service to the Floral Industry to Jim Marvin AIFD. Marvin, head of Jim Marvin Enterprises in Dickson, TN was recognized for his significant contributions to the floral design profession.

AIFD was established in 1965 and is dedicated to recognizing and promoting the art of floral design as a professional career. It is the floral industry's leading non-profit organization committed to establishing and maintaining higher standards in professional floral design. With over 1,300 members worldwide, AIFD and its members are in the forefront of the industry in presenting educational and design programs.

Accredited Membership in AIFD is selective. To be accredited, a floral designer must fulfill rigid qualifications and demonstrate advanced professional ability. Members are distinguished by the letters "AIFD" used as an addendum to their name. To maintain accreditation, they must meet certain continuing education requirements.

The 2005 National Symposium, "Balance," will be held in Seattle, OR (July 2-6).