VCTGA_FALL18 NL

Handling the “Shortage” Story: Tools for the Industry As most growers will remember, last season the media aggressively cov- ered the story of the “shortage” of fresh cut Christmas trees. Despite efforts by CTPB, NCTA and other industry leaders, the story was ampli- fied around the US. And although some reporters did include some ac- curate information, the headlines with the word “shortage” were a se- rious problem for the industry. With the expectation that this story will be presented again in the media, the CTPB has worked with Fleish- man Hillard on a plan to preempt some of the incorrect reporting. Pro- fessionals at Fleishman Hillard have also developed a set of talking points and answers to common reporter questions that the entire industry can use. These tools are being shared with all state association executives for their use and distribution to their members, as well as with leaders of CTPB and NCTA. For More Information Contact: Sept. 14, 2018, Marsha Gray, Executive Director, 517-242-1630, mjgray1@charter.net

To Join: 1. Log into your Facebook profile. 2. Enter “Virginia Christmas Tree Growers” in the search box at the top left of the page. 3. Click the Groups tab to see a list of groups related to your search term. 4. As above, click on the name of the group to learn more, or click Join to become a member of the group. 5. You will have to wait for your membership request to be ap- proved. For additional info or help, contact Ryan Clouse rclouse@mafc.com Or Jeff Miller, secre- tary@VirginiaChristmasTrees.org 2018 VCTGA Officers & Directors Jeff Gregson, President Bees & Trees LLC Greg Lemmer , Past President Lemmer Inc John Carroll , Vice President

Exclusive New VCTGA Facebook Group for Members Only A new VCTGA membership benefit was introduced at our annual conference in Natural Bridge by Ryan Clouse – a VCTGA Facebook Group!

Claybrooke Farm LLC Directors - 2 Year Ryan Clouse Clouse Pine Hill Farm Laura Wolfe Every Soul Acres Dave Thomas Valley Star Farm Directors – 1 Year John Houston Sweet Providence Farm Robert O’Keeffe Rifton Farm & Nursery Tommy Naylor North Lake Christmas Tree & Nrsy Cheryll Green Hank’s Christmas Tree Farm

Have you ordered your VCTGA Tree Care/Price tags?

This is different from a regular Facebook page, in that what you post only goes to other VCTGA Group members. Ask a question, offer tips, new resources, post pho- tos, etc. Ryan is also setting up a resource clearinghouse page for Extension Publications, PowerPoint presenta- tions from VCTGA meetings, and other information that will help you be a more successful/profitable Christmas tree business.

See details on page 23

VCTGA News Journal ‒ Fall 2018 VCTGA News Journal – Fall 2018

19

| 17