HERNDON, Va. - In the wake of last month's terrorist attacks, Associated Landscape Contractors of America (ALCA) President Drew T. St. John II has waived 2002 renewal dues for members located within 50 miles of New York City.
"During this time, it's not about money, but about America and what ALCA can do for your business," St. John wrote in a letter to contractors. "It's about helping those who need help and standing firm and proud."
Renewal dues that are sent in regardless of the waiver will be donated to the American Red Cross September 11th Fund. St. John went on to explain to members that forfeiting these dues from some 113 members in the area will not affect ALCA's strong presence in the green industry.
"Fortunately, ALCA is financially strong through our fund reserves and our monetary response will be long lasting and significant," St. John stressed. "We have achieved a leadership role in the industry, and we have a responsibility and obligation to you to maintain it."
With the economy in a state of flux since the attacks on the World Trade Center, many contractors in the area were appreciative of the fee waiver.
"We are feeling the effects of this disaster economically and emotionally as we hear how our many customers were personally affected by this tragedy," William G. Pols III, president, Good Earth Landscaping, Parmus, N.J., wrote in a response letter to St. John. "Retail sales are way off and payments are not being received on time, creating cash flow challenges that we haven't had to deal with before.
"I will take you up on your offer of the 2002 dues waiver with the hopes that I can use that money to invest in our economy by continuing plans to replace equipment that were forged before the Sept. 11 tragedy," he continued.
Glenn Jacobsen, owner, Jacobsen Landscape Design and Construction, Midland Park, N.J, also responded to St. John's letter with approval and thanks.
"The letter was a nice response coming from the ALCA president, rich with ALCA insights and the plan to support ALCA members," Jacobsen stated. "As the changes occur over the coming weeks, months and years, it is important to know that ALCA will support the members through these changing and challenging times."
In addition to waiving 2002 renewal fees, ALCA is continuing with its plan to provide the Green Industry Expo (GIE) Conference in Tampa, Fla., Nov. 9-13 and is waiving all late registration fees and extending early bird pricing through the first day of the conference. As a way to be directly involved with national healing, plans for a long-term national project to honor and remember lives lost in the attacks are also in the works.
"Our industry is one that can provide long-lasting beauty to spaces we occupy," St. John emphasized. "As landscape professionals, we will be asked to make America beautiful again from the stain of these attacks of terror. ALCA wants you to be ready and willing to respond. It is our duty as leaders of this industry and as Americans."