Morro Bay Man Elected to National Board

The leader of a local beautification group has been elected to the movement’s national board. Walter Heath of Morro Bay was elected to the America in Bloom Board of Directors at its annual meeting earlier this month.

“What an honor to have Walter join the AIB Board of Directors,” said Laura Kunkle, AIB executive director. “He has been an active volunteer in both Morro Bay in Bloom and America in Bloom, so it will be nice to harness his leadership and creativity at the national level by serving on the board. I’m looking forward to Walter’s energy, positive spirit, and leadership.”

Heath joined two others elected to the board — Linda Hart of the Holland, Mich., Visitors Bureau and Leslie Pittenger, the Belpre, Ohio city auditor.

“America in Bloom is an independent, non-profit organization dedicated to promoting nationwide beautification programs and personal and community involvement through the use of flowers, plants, trees, and other environmental and lifestyle enhancements,” the organization said in a  news release. “AIB provides educational programs, resources, and the challenge of a friendly competition between participating communities across the country.”

Katy Moss Warner, president emeritus of the American Horticultural Society, was elected president of the board. Evelyn Alemanni of ALLEA and former Arroyo Grande Mayor, Tony Ferrara of Arroyo Consulting Group, were elected first and second vice presidents, respectively. Dr. Marvin Miller of Ball Horticultural Company, was elected treasurer, and Dr Jack Clasen was elected secretary. Dr. Charlie Hall of Texas A&M University is the past president.

Others on the board of directors are: Bobby Barnitz of Bob’s Market & Greenhouse, Drew Becher of Marshall Dirks, Proven Winners, Dale Fisher of Jon Carloftis Fine Gardens, Edith Makra of the Metropolitan Mayors Caucus, John Manchester, the Mayor of Lewisburg, W.V., and Diana Weiner of the Gerry Foundation.

For information about America in Bloom, see: www.AmericaInBloom.org.