FloraStar Gives Remaining Funds To AFE

As a final thank you to the floriculture industry, the remaining funds from FloraStar were donated to the American Floral Endowment in a short and informal ceremony on Monday during Short Course. FloraStar was dissolved after 19 successful years when it was determined the unique value of the FloraStar award program had diminished due to the rapidly changing market.

A check in the amount of $36,318.50 was given to AFE, presented by Bob Humm and Gary Hudson representing FloraStar and Danny Takao representing OFA. Mike Mellano and Sten Crissey, along with several of the Trustees from the American Floral Endowment were present for the ceremony.

“On behalf of all the people who have participated in FloraStar over the years, it is a pleasure to hand over this check to AFE to further floriculture research and scholarships,” said Bob Humm, the last acting president of FloraStar. “We know it will be used wisely.”

According to Sten Crissey, AFE Vice President of Development and Industry Relations, AFE has the most comprehensive programs in research and scholarships of any organization in the floral industry. Established in 1961, AFE has combined assets of nearly $14 million. Funds are invested and proceeds from the investments are used to fund research and provide scholarships for the benefit of the industry.

Gary Hudson, former Executive Director of FloraStar, and Bob Humm, FloraStar’s last president, thanked all former board members, officers, Mike Novovesky, long time Executive Director, breeders and trial location judges who participated in the FloraStar program for so many years. “We are certain the FloraStar donation will be used by AFE to continue to bring new and improved genetics to market in the years to follow,” he said.