Special thanks to our Feb. 8 program presenter, Pat Arnold of Arnold Sales and Marketing. He gave us many insights on marketing in the new economy, which included:

• An engaging website
• Adopting new technology
• Promoting your strengths
• Targeting Gen X and Gen Y
• Train your staff
• Keep it clean and clutter free
• Couponing is on the increase

We will revisit some of these topics during our March 8 garden center tours – Retail Reloaded, before our annual Dinner/Meeting. Don’t miss it!

We would also like to thank Jeff Griff and Lowe’s Greenhouse for hosting the event and providing dinner and beverages. The place looked great!

Are you dues up to date? Not sure? Contact Cathee. Memberships run Jan – Dec. The 2011 Directory will be available March 8. Your dues and any changes to your listing must be received by March 1, 2011 to be included. Need an invoice? Contact Cathee.

Comments, program, and activity suggestions are always welcome. Please contact a board member.

GCFGA Membership dues have held fast for more than a decade. Have your expenses held? Didn’t think so - your donation to the General Fund is especially important and appreciated.

We are grateful to those who have donated their time and resources to serve on the Board of Directors. Meetings are held quarterly or at the discretion of the president. A new vice president and grower representatives are especially NEEDED to help us best serve YOU!

Please consider a door prize donation for the annual dinner. We are very grateful to our members and suppliers for their generosity – for the past few years every dinner attendee has gone home with a door prize! And we hope to keep that tradition in place - with your help.

Please contact one of the officers listed above to make donation arrangements. Checks payable to GCFGA may be used towards gift certificates or earmarked for our general fund – please "memo" your preference. This is a good time to contact your favorite suppliers for donations. Acquaint GCFGA membership with your business with logo items. Info table space is also available.

Be a fan on Facebook! Our 2011 goal is to build a bigger and better internet presence for GCFGA. Check it out – is your garden center or nursery part of the social network? Welcome to the 21^st century – get onboard!

We extend our deepest sympathy to Tom Parry and to Keven Radke; each of whom recently lost their fathers. Please keep them and their families in your thoughts and prayers.