MTF Board Member Writing Assignments 2008
All Board members are responsible for one article per year; assigned deadlines follow this calendar. We also accept pertinent material for any issue. Length should be about 400 to 800 words (1/2 to 1 page in NN). You may submit original material or reprints (with original source permission). Photos are strongly encouraged.
The President and Executive Director write a column for every issue.
Listed below is a “Contents Calendar” for Newsnotes quarterly issues. The information may assist you in choosing a timely topic for your article. If you have any questions regarding content, topic, length, etc., call Rebecca at 517-327-9207.
Spring Issue (March)
ARTICLE DUE DATE: February 8th
Summer Issue (June)
ARTICLE DUE DATE: May 11
Fall Issue (September)
ARTICLE DUE DATE: August 10
Winter Issue (December)
ARTICLE DUE DATE: November 2nd
Elected to represent various turf groups in Michigan, each of us has a responsibility to serve our constituents and inform them of our activities. You can use this assignment to do just that! Or take a topic from the list, below, or make up your own topic. We even accept reprinted materials, providing you receive permission from original source. Articles don't have to be lengthy or earth shattering. All grammar and punctuation will be corrected. If you don't have faith in your writing skills, don't worry! We will edit your submission (if necessary) for clarity, proper word use and conciseness. You will sound good! Photos are always helpful.
The most interesting (and easy to write) articles contain specific information about something you did at your work. Descriptions of in-house projects or new practices (from fellow professionals) are always appealing.
Send articles in Word (.doc); images as .jpg files
Send articles and pictures to: Rebecca Holloway
Have you Prepared for Winter?
Recovering from Winter Damage
Pre-treating Turf for Summer Stress
Proper Timing of Fertilizer Applications
Pond management strategies
Goose control options
The Art of Hand Watering
Environmental topics
Product Evaluation in the Field
“Turf Tips” (clever, but simple, innovations)
An Alternative Cultivation Program
Snow removal/deicing options
Value of professional development
Communication Techniques
Managing Difficult People
Hiring/firing techniques
Interviewing skills
Member/customer volunteer day
“Open House at the Shop”
Value Added Services
Estimating Project Costs
Project management
“It Worked for Me”
Common Bookkeeping Errors
Establishing Priorities
Time Management Strategies
Lessons Learned
“A Great New Product to Try” (no sales pitches, please)
Historical comparison of products and techniques
“Stop and Smell the Roses”
“My Favorite Vacation” (related to your work)
Humorous anecdotes