• Due to the quality and reputation of this course, many lawn care companies have made it a key part of their training programs.
ONLINE BENEFITS “The online format benefits students in many ways, mainly convenience,” Murray said. “They no longer have to wait to receive the textbook. Course access is granted immediately. Students can access course content from anywhere with an Internet connection instead of carrying around a heavy book. The course is also interactive, allowing students to complete learning exercises and quizzes, and receive instant results.”
An added perk, course graduates earn a digital badge de- signed to recognize accomplishments, skills, and expertise.
Explained Murray, “The badge can be posted to one’s social media account, such as LinkedIn or Facebook. Badge own- ers can share their badges and talk to other badge owners, creating a community of shared experiences.” After signing up for the course, students have 12 months
to take the two required exams (proctored in their local area). A six-month extension is available. As both Foote and Thompson reemphasize, the certifi- cation cuts across several green industry segments and is a valuable tool for owners, managers, and technicians alike. For more information about enrolling in the Principles of Turfgrass Management program and receiving the Landscape Industry Certified Lawn Care Manager designation, visit
www.georgiacenter.uga.edu/turf or call 706-542-3537. 7
CHRISTMAS CAME EARLY FOR NALP MEMBER TREE ADORNED WHITE HOUSE BLUE ROOM
H
aving the Grand Champion tree at last year’s National Christmas Tree Association competition, held in Spring Grove, Illinois, was just the first leg of an adventure for Glenn Bustard. He then made two visits to White House, once to deliver a tree and once again to see it decorated in the Blue Room.
As explained by the owner of Bustard Landscaping in Lansdale, Pennsylvania, the tree that won the competition was only 8 feet tall; the White House needed one at least 18 ½ feet tall for the Blue Room. “We sent the White House staff images of 10 trees that met their specifications. Each was accompanied with views from all sides. On September 30, a group that included the White House head usher and head groundskeeper came to our facility and picked out the tree they wanted.” Bustard’s team delivered the Douglas fir on Tuesday before Thanksgiving and presented it to the
First Lady that Friday. SPECIAL TREATMENT
The occasion didn’t come without a few extra perks. Bustard got a tour of White House and even enjoyed a Christmas cookie while waiting to meet the First Lady. Then, before Christmas, he was invited back to see his company’s decorated prize winner, along with others that adorned the White House. “The tree had a red, white, and blue theme with garland that contained messages from family members whose sons and daughters were in the military overseas. After Christmas, the messages, garland and all, were sent to them,” he added. “Being there, meeting Michelle Obama, and touring the White House was definitely a once in a lifetime experience.” 7
The Bustard Landscaping team with White House tree in the background. Pictured is Angela Reed, White House head usher; to her right is White House Superintendent of Grounds, Dale Haney; and Jim Adams, Supervisory Horticul- turist for the National Park Service. Jay and Glenn Bustard are in the back row.
NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF LANDSCAPE PROFESSIONALS
15
Page 1 |
Page 2 |
Page 3 |
Page 4 |
Page 5 |
Page 6 |
Page 7 |
Page 8 |
Page 9 |
Page 10 |
Page 11 |
Page 12 |
Page 13 |
Page 14 |
Page 15 |
Page 16 |
Page 17 |
Page 18 |
Page 19 |
Page 20 |
Page 21 |
Page 22 |
Page 23 |
Page 24 |
Page 25 |
Page 26 |
Page 27 |
Page 28 |
Page 29 |
Page 30 |
Page 31 |
Page 32 |
Page 33 |
Page 34 |
Page 35 |
Page 36 |
Page 37 |
Page 38 |
Page 39 |
Page 40