FR O M T H E T T A PRE S I DE N T
Doug Ward
TTA SHOWING ITS COLORS As
with every TTA conference and trade show, we expect to see a few new wrinkles in its production that indicate progress and improvement for our members. By the overwhelmingly positive comments that several board members and I have heard post-conference, I would have to say “mission accomplished” for our 54th Annual Conference and Trade Show! Over the many years I have been attending the TTA conference it’s been a unique experience to see how this event has evolved to what we have today… something we should all be proud of.
THANKS: From the educational program, well-coordinated trade show/ lunch event and memorable awards banquet – special thanks go to the TTA board and its various committees as well as our Executive Director, Melissa Martin, for their many hours of planning in making this event such a huge success. Our sincere thanks also go out to our supporting vendors that continually make the trade show a vibrant gathering and their sponsorship of much of our food and gatherings that are essential in providing a top flight event. With robust attendance seen again this year, thanks also go out to all members that participated in this year’s event. It’s your presence and support that ultimately make our association stand strong in the industry.
on how we may improve this event. No idea is too small – your input is an important factor in the process of enhancing our organization and conference success.
RECOGNITION: I would like to recognize Jason Pooler, our outgoing President, for his time and dedication to our association over the last two years as president and eight years as a board member. We have seen many positive things happen during his tenure and I thank him for his service, leadership and untiring efforts in directing our association on a successful path. Extended thanks also go to outgoing Board of Directors veteran Tim Long for 8 years of commitment and service to our association. Your service has been much appreciated. I likewise want to welcome new board members Jeff Wyatt of Smith Turf and Irrigation, Brad Jean of Crossroads Sod Farms and Ashley Gaskin of Pure Green LLC. It is volunteers such as these gentlemen that make this association operate in such an effective manner. I’m sure they will find their time spent on the Board a rewarding experience. Lastly, I would like to say that I am honored to serve as President of TTA. It has been a rewarding experience for me as a board member over the last several years and I look forward to working with newly appointed vice-president, Chris Sykes and secretary/treasurer, Ryan Storey as we endeavor to guide our association to a most successful 2020.
INPUT: With all of its success, we continually strive to improve our conference. Whether it be a matter of logistics, educational offerings or promoting our membership, I encourage everyone to share their thoughts with me or one of our board members
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Doug Ward Golf Course Superintendent Belle Meade Country Club TTA President
TENNESSEE TURFGRASS FEBRUARY/MARCH 2020 Email TTA at: info@ttaonline.org