For Immediate Release 

Theodore, AL – After fifteen years of serving as Trustee of the Bellingrath-Morse Foundation, Walter L. Hovell, Sr. retired from the Board and was elected Trustee Emeritus.  At a surprise picnic luncheon held today at Bellingrath Gardena and Home, Mr. Hovell was honored for his commitment and service to the Foundation. He has served as Chairman of the Foundation since January, 1999 and was Interim Executive Director until Dr. William E Barrick arrived in November 1999. 

During the luncheon, a 200 gallon Live Oak tree planted on the Great Lawn was dedicated to Mr. Hovell for his many years of service to Bellingrath and the Mobile community.  Mr. Hovell worked tirelessly on issues centered on education, drug education, United Way causes, the School of Math and Science and the South Alabama Community Foundation.  In addition, long time friend, Mayor Sam Jones proclaimed April 27^th Walter L. Hovell, Sr. Day.

Friends and colleagues including:  Ann Bedsole, Gary Tanner, Gigi Armbrecht, Dr. Jerry Gunnells and G. Edgar Downing, Jr. attended the celebration to thank Mr. Hovell for his many contributions and offer him their best wishes. Bellingrath’s Executive Director Dr. William E. Barrick said, “Through his leadership, Mr. Hovell has contributed significantly to the preservation and enhancement of the legacy of Walter and Bessie Bellingrath.  All of the employees of Bellingrath Gardens will miss his enthusiastic support and commitment to this institution”.