(Baltimore, MD) - Richard Salvaggio AIFD (pictured right) of Teleflora was recognized with the American Institute of Floral Designers' (AIFD) highest honor - the Award of Distinguished Service to AIFD - during the Institute's 2008 Awards ceremonies held in Chicago on Saturday, July 5. This award is bestowed upon AIFD members who have demonstrated outstanding service to the Institute. Recipients are known as "Fellows of AIFD" and are granted life membership. Salvaggio becomes the 27th individual to be honored with this award.

Since his induction into the organization in 1987, Salvaggio's service to AIFD has been extensive. He has served as president, symposium chair and is again on the AIFD Board of Directors serving as treasurer. Awards Chair Julie Poeltler AIFD said that perhaps even more important than Rich's service to AIFD in an official capacity has been his willingness to be a mentor to other members.

Also honored during the ceremonies was Talmage McLaurin AIFD with the Award of Distinguished Service to the Floral Industry. A second generation floral professional, McLaurin has served the industry in many roles, including those of floral designer, educator, communicator, writer and editor. He currently serves as publisher of Florists' Review.

For their work in the greening of Chicago and promotional programs marketing the city's florists, Chicago Mayor Richard M. Daley and First Lady Maggie Daley were recognized with the AIFD Award of Merit — Non-Industry. Past honorees for this award have included Lady Bird Johnson, the NBC "Today" Show and Martha Stewart.

BBJ Linen was announced as recipient of the AIFD Award of Merit - Industry. Celebrating its 25th anniversary, BBJ Linen is the floral industry's leading specialty linen rental company and has been a tireless supporter of AIFD and the floral industry as a whole.

AIFD is dedicated to recognizing and promoting the art of floral design as a professional career. It is the floral industry's leading nonprofit 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 2009 National Symposium, "The Sky is the Limit," will be held in Kansas City, Mo. (July 11-16).