STMA President Jimmy Simpson, CSFM, on April 9, issued the following statement to STMA members:
The Sports Turf Managers Association (STMA) has long been recognized as a leader in providing educational information that helps athletic field managers complete their essential function of providing safe athletic fields. There is no doubt that the work performed by our members is essential. Municipalities, local governments as well as colleges all over the country have acknowledged so during this time of crisis. In many locations, we find that members are busy preparing and working on their surfaces in the hopes that they will be filled with athletes soon. As we plan for this return, we are working differently than before this crisis. Thank you for heeding the warnings of the medical professionals, and practicing social distancing. These critically important practices will properly prepare us for the day when play resumes.
The first action that the Board of Directors has taken is to create the STMA guest membership program. This six-month membership program is open to anyone and will provide access to STMA’s learning programs and a number of past conference presentations. We are the industry’s continuing education leader and this program further illustrates that point. We hope that you will agree that this key step in sharing our resources with peers who are not members will help the industry recover and advance. A rising tide raises all boats!
We have three additional immediate initiatives: A route to recovery guide, a chapter outreach program and a communications plan to strategic non-industry associations and their members. Stay tuned for updates and more information on these and other programs as they continue to develop.
This crisis has affected everyone differently and left many wondering what the new normal will be. There are several things that I feel are important to remember. First, collaboration is critical to making the best decisions possible and second, it is your right to experience whatever emotions you are feeling, while being aware that others are enduring their own unique circumstances.
Please reach out to the STMA or to me personally if there is anything that we can do to help you during this time.
Sincerely,
Jimmy Simpson, CSFM
STMA President