THE Nursery Sod Growers Association of Ontario has a new executive
secretary to succeed Barbara Tweedle, who is retiring after 35 years
with the organization.
Sarah Bruce formally took over the position on Oct. 16 following her
tenure as administrative assistant to the Professional Staff
Association at the University of Guelph. She will continue to be based
in Guelph which is the new home of the NSGA office.
“My work for the PSA involves being the facilitator between the volunteer board and its efforts, and the needs of the members,” Bruce said in an introductory memo to NSGA members. “I’m also the office manager for a motor coach tour operator in Guelph, providing bus tours in Canada and the U.S. This job involves detailed planning and organization to make sure every tour runs smoothly. 
“I believe my work experience, combined with computer and bookkeeping skills will be a good fit with the NSGA membership and board. I am looking forward to getting to know the members and learning about your industry. After my first board meeting, I realized that I will have to learn a whole new vocabulary, so please bear with me.”
Tweedle, in her departing remarks, said she thoroughly enjoyed her 35 years with the NSGA.
“All good things must come to an end, and my years of managing the association office have certainly been good,” she said. “It isn’t the big events I will remember most about NSGA. It is the members—industrious, hard-working individuals who, while running their own company, still managed to find time to serve on the board and various committees. Often competitors for the same market, you’ve managed to work together and make a difference for the turfgrass industry in Ontario.
“I’ve laughed with you as you told me stories about your children and silently shed a tear over the sad times we all go through. While I have mixed feelings about my retirement, I do know that the time is right. It is time for Ross and I to enjoy some winters in warmer climates and perhaps do a bit of what I enjoy most—travelling.”
Tweedle said the time was right for the association to find a successor who is knowledgeable in computer and website technology.
“Sarah Bruce will be a great replacement for this old girl. I know you will like her and make her feel welcome.”
The NSGA marks its 50th anniversary in 2010.
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