January 2013

The Future is Bright By Tim Hodson

Each year, GPN and Nexus recognize one outstanding college student who has participated in a horticulutre-related internship program.

In "A Bright Future" (page 14), you can read about this year's student intern — Lauren Tuski. Currently a senior at Michigan State University, Tuski participated in the internship program at C. Raker & Sons in Litchfield, Mich., last summer.

With her internship experience at Raker under her belt, along with her MSU education, Lauren will be entering the professional ranks this May when she graduates.

Lauren represents the next generation for our industry. In the coming years, Lauren and her peers will be the ones deciding where the horticulture industry is headed. And it looks like the future is bright!

It wouldn't surprise me if, in a few years, we see Lauren's name as a member of GPN's 40 Under 40.

Speaking of GPN's 40 Under 40, you have until Jan. 21 to let us know whom you think should be a member of our Class of 2013.

In our May issue and at OFA Short Course this July, we will again be recognizing 40 individuals under the age of 40 who are making their mark on the industry right now.

Contact me at thodson@sgcmail.com for details on how you can nominate someone for this year's class.

And the Winner is…

In late November I received word from Folio magazine that both GPN and its sister publication, Lawn & Garden Retailer, were medalists in the Eddie Awards competition.

You are probably asking yourself, "What is Folio magazine and what are the Eddie Awards?"

Folio magazine is the magazine for people who publish magazines and the Eddie Awards recognize "excellence in outstanding magazine editorial and design."

Both of our publications were recognized for Best Full Issue in their respective categories. GPN's July 2011 issue was the recipient of a bronze award while Lawn & Garden Retailer's May 2012 issue took home a silver award.

We like to think each and every issue of GPN and Lawn & Garden Retailer is a winner. But it is always kind of nice to get some outside recognition, too.