Join us at the Third Annual Lone Star Hort Forum (LSHF), presented by the Texas Nursery & Landscape Association.

Elevate your expertise, gain insights from industry leaders, and build vital connections. Our sessions cover business, leadership, finance, HR, future strategies, customer service, marketing, and plant trends.

​Grow with us at LSHF – your gateway to success in horticulture and beyond.
To Attend the education sessions below, be sure to click the box for the LSHF Education Pass: $225 for Members and $300 for Non-Members

Monday, January 8, 2023

 7:15 am - 8:00 am Registration, Exhibits and Coffee
(Texas Grande) 

8:00 am - 9:10 am ​Welcome & Opening Keynote Texas Grande: Economic Forecast for 2024 with Dr. Charlie Hall, Texas A&M University
Embark on an exclusive journey with us as we inaugurate the Lone Star Hort Forum, a remarkable blend of professional development and education. During the opening session explore the exciting opportunities that await you and your team, ensuring you make the most of every moment.

This year's captivating keynote presentation will help you and your team gain valuable insights from esteemed expert Dr. Charlie Hall, who will unveil the 2024 Economic Forecast. This visionary session is a must-attend, offering crucial insights into potential industry challenges and opportunities that will shape your future business decisions.

Don't miss out on this exceptional opportunity to stay ahead of the curve. Join us at the opening keynote presentation and arm yourself with the knowledge to navigate the road ahead successfully.

9:30 am - 10:30 am Concurrent Education Sessions 

​9:30 am - 10:30 am  Visual Merchandising: How to Attract Customers for Successful Sales with Rhonda Kaiser, Southern Home and Farm, Pheasant Ridge, Springing Forward
Most customers impressions are based primarily on visual reference. It takes 3-5 seconds to form a first impression, the same applies when introducing your products. Presenting your products in an appealing way can influence the likelihood of your consumers making a purchase. It is essential for a business to recognize the importance of these initial impressions, from the customers perspective. Both exterior and interior merchandise displays play an important role and should convey an overall feel of the establishment, create feelings of comfort and encourage customers to purchase. Whether you are looking to start your retail journey, or enhance what you have already grown, this presentation is perfect for you!
Highlights include:
  • Principles of Design
  • Exterior and Interior Presentation
  • Rules of Color
  • Common Mistakes in Displays
​9:30 am - 10:30 am    Building Successful Leaders with Courtney Ramsey, Courtney Ramsey Speaks, Llano Estacado, Leading with Vision
You want your organization to thrive on all levels. You need solid leaders, killer productivity, and engaged employees who actually stick around for a while!  The problem? Your organization’s leaders. Their poor leadership skills are causing morale issues and high turnover—leading to bare-minimum results.
 
How can you build successful, capable leaders? It’s a million-dollar question. Luckily, the tools you need are at your fingertips, and they won’t blow your budget!
 
Outcomes:
  • Create a structured, yet budget-friendly leadership development program that provides the basic “toolkit” needed to lead
  • Enhance your leadership team’s level of self-awareness through feedback, coaching and mentoring
  • Empower leaders by creating a “F4” environment where it’s okay to “fail-fast and fail-forward” 
​9:30 am - 10:30 am    Building Your Bench: 3 Recruiting Strategies to Attract High-Quality Job Applicants with LeAnne Legasse, LeAnne Legasse Coaching and Consulting, Delaney I, Culture of Performance
In your organization’s landscape, success hinges on the strength of your team. In this session, we’ll explore practical strategies for enhancing your recruitment efforts. Attendees will gain insights into avoiding common recruiting pitfalls, developing an appealing Employer Value Proposition (EVP) to attract top talent, and implementing efficient processes to maintain a strong talent pool. These strategies will empower organizations to excel in a competitive job market and strengthen their connections with potential employees.

In this session, attendees will learn how to:
  • Avoid the most common mistakes organizations make in their performance management practices.
  • Apply the science of employee engagement to cultivate a high-performance culture where employees are bought-in, motivated, and highly productive.
  • Leverage strategies for establishing robust feedback and recognition mechanisms that drive engagement and performance.

​9:30 am - 10:30 am    H2A and H2B Updates with Lori Whitten, Action Visa, Delaney II, Disruptions in HOrticulture
Hear from the experts about the latest updates regarding H2A and H2B. Also, learn tips to shop around for the best agency to help you with your VISA program.
​9:30 am - 10:30 am    Labor Issues Panel Discussion with Moderator Devin Guinn, AquaGreen Global, LLC – Alicia Abell, Monarch Landscape Management LLC, Adrian Muehlstein TMCNP, Southwest Wholesale Nursery, & Giuseppie Baldi, TCLP, TCWSP, TCNP, Lawns of DAllas, Hot Topics
In today's competitive business landscape, finding and retaining top talent is essential for sustained success. The challenges of talent acquisition, retention, and skill development are universal, and many companies are grappling with the same issues. Our panel discussion brings together industry experts who have firsthand experience navigating these challenges. They will share insights and strategies to help your company overcome labor problems and create a more effective hiring process.
​9:30 am - 10:30 am The Earth-Kind Rose Redux: A New Beginning in 2025 with Paul Winksi, Texas AgriLife Extension, Cross Timbers I & II, Plant UPdates
EarthKind® plants are a selection of environmentally friendly, low-maintenance plants promoted by the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service. These plants are known for their drought tolerance, resistance to pests and diseases, low maintenance requirements, adaptability, and sustainability. During this session discover the best management practices for EarthKind® plants ​ and get a behind the scenes sneak peek of field trials coming down the pipeline.  
9:30 am - 10:30 am    Turf Grass management SPANISH ONLY SESSION, Dr. Manuel Chaverria, Texas A&M University, Homestead
SPANISH ONLY. Help your Crew take their turf grass management expertise to the next level!  
What You'll Learn:
  • Cutting-edge techniques for maintaining lush, healthy lawns
  • Strategies for addressing common turf issues and challenges
  • Sustainable practices to reduce environmental impact
  • Best-in-class tools and equipment for optimal results

10:45 am - 11:45 am Concurrent Education Sessions 

​10:45 am -11:45 am  Navigating a New Era of Consumer Expectations, Lauren Kirchner, Spring Creek Growers, Inc., Pheasant Ridge, Springing Forward
Ah, the consumer. What a fickle beast. Who are they really? What are they thinking about? And what do they want from us? Learn about the current gardening customer, how to speak to them and keep them coming back for more. Get an edge on the competition by mastering the new era of consumer expectations.
 
Takeaways:
  • Identify consumers in categories that resonate with what you have to offer
  • How to build strategies and communications into your business to manage the expectations
  • Learn 2024 garden trends
​10:45 am -11:45 am    The Pillars of Wealth: Building a Sustainable Financial Future with Shona Bell, Beyond Accounting and Tax, & Jay Moore, Living Free Financial Services Llano Estacado, Leading with Vision
In the dynamic world of business, financial expertise is a non-negotiable skill for success. Whether you're an experienced business professional or an aspiring entrepreneur, this session is designed to empower you with the knowledge and tools needed to excel in the financial aspects for your company. Elevate your financial prowess and become a more effective leader in your business endeavors. Join us for this exclusive class and gain the financial insight to set you apart in the competitive world of business. Don't miss this opportunity to take your financial acumen to the next level. 
​10:45 am -11:45 am    Building a High-Performance Culture with LeAnne Legasse, LeAnne Legasse Coaching and Consulting, Delaney I, Culture of performance
If you’re struggling with performance management challenges in your organization, you’re not alone. In fact, most leaders struggle to create a team culture that drives engagement, productivity, and sustained success. In this session, we’ll explore how to evade common performance management pitfalls, harness the science of employee engagement to ignite motivation and productivity, and establish feedback and recognition systems that enhance engagement and drive superior performance.
​
In this session, attendees will learn how to:
  • Avoid the most common mistakes organizations make in their performance management practices.
  • Apply the science of employee engagement to cultivate a high-performance culture where employees are bought-in, motivated, and highly productive.
  • Leverage strategies for establishing robust feedback and recognition mechanisms that drive engagement and performance.
10:45 am -11:45 am    Diving into Profit Margins with Dr. Charlie Hall, Texas A&M University, Delaney II, Disruptions in Horticulture
Discovery a variety of factors impacting the Green Industry's profit margins including future economic conditions and seasonality. During this session Dr. Charlie Hall will provide the latest information on the Green Industry profit margin data and give attendees a better understanding of how to plan for what's ahead.
10:45 am -11:45 am    Climate Resistant Plants, Dr. Mike Arnold, Texas A&M AgriLife Extension, Cross Timbers I & II, Plant Updates
​Learn about the latest climate-resistant plants that grow best in Texas. Gain tips on proper planting, care, and adaptation which are crucial for their success.
10:45 am -11:45 am    Water Restrictions Panel Discussion – Moderator Devin Guinn, AquaGreen Global, LLC, Panelists: Neil Kolodziej, Prestonwood Landscape Services, LLC - San Antoni, Greg Fox, Clean Scapes, LP, Remmington Holt, Amarillo Land Services, Texas Grande, Hot Topics
Drought conditions in Texas continue to grow, impacting the entire State. Municipalities are coming down with hard restrictions as the Texas Green Industry continues to find sustainable ways to grow plants by utilizing smart irrigation technology, conducting water audits on landscapes, sourcing heat tolerant plants and working with local governments to find alternative ways to efficiently use water.
10:45 am -11:45 am    New Plants on the Scene, SPANISH ONLY SESSION, Katerina Graham, Texas AgriLife Extension, Homestead
Don't miss out on learning about the latest new plants on the scene. Discover which conditions these plants grow best and how they can enhance the landscapes you are working on.

11:45  am - 1:00 pm Complimentary Boxed Lunch
(Texas Grande)

12:35 pm - 1:35 pm Concurrent Education Sessions 

12:35 pm - 1:35 pm    Disease Diagnostic Strategies with Dr. Kevin Ong, Texas A&M University, Pheasant Ridge, Springing Forward
Unlock the secrets to thriving landscapes with our exclusive session on Disease Diagnostic Strategies.
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Discover why early identification is the key to unlocking a world of benefits:
  • Prevent Disease Spread: Be the guardian of your garden by stopping diseases in their tracks and protecting your entire plant family.
  • Minimize Damage: Keep plants looking vibrant and healthy by nipping diseases in the bud, ensuring they flourish to their full potential.
  • Cut Costs: Save on expensive treatments and replacements with proactive measures that are as budget-friendly as they are effective.
  • Preserve Plant Health: Become a plant whisperer, ensuring the well-being of your plants for years to come.
  • Safeguard the Environment: Embrace eco-friendly practices that not only protect your garden but also contribute to a greener, more sustainable world.

Join us for this enlightening session and learn the art of conducting regular plant inspections, spotting common symptoms, mastering soil analysis, and harnessing the power of plant testing labs. Don't miss out on your chance to become a true plant hero! ​
​12:35 pm - 1:35 pm    Spring Into Success: Cultivating Growth, Motivation, and Peak Performance in the Green Industry with Dee Maddox, DMX Consulting, Llano Estacado, Leading with Vision
Unearth secrets of cultivating growth, motivation, and achieving peak performance.
  1. Leadership Evolution: Evolve your leadership style to adapt to changing demands.
  2. Motivation Mastery: Discover strategies for motivating teams, boosting morale, and cultivating excellence.
  3. Strategic Growth: Gain insights into strategic planning to foster sustainable growth.
  4. Operational Excellence: Explore best practices to O.W.N. success.
  5. Peak Performance Framework: Using D.E.E.D, achieving peak performance by setting clear goals, measuring progress, and continuous improvement. 
​12:35 pm - 1:35 pm    The Law or Nah? Debunking Employment Law Myths with Dustin Paschal, Attorney Simon |Paschal PLLC, Delaney I, Culture of Performance
Like a game of telephone, employment law often gets twisted over time based on the presentation of "best practices" in HR. But the "best practices" may not always be the best for every employer. And the "best practices" might not even be the best, but rather someone's long ago opinion about what was best at that time. It is vitally important for HR professionals to truly understand the law so that they can make the best decision for their workplace based on legal requirements and so that they can be a trusted advisor to their C-Suite regarding employment law legal requirements. This presentation will debunk many employment law myths and tell you what the law really says.
Actionable Takeaways:
  • Learn what the law truly is and understand the flexibility you have at work. 
  • Be able to accurately communicate to the C-Suite what the workplace legal requirements are versus best practices so they can make informed decisions. 
  • Understand best practices to determine if they are best for your company
​12:35 pm - 1:35 pm   Rehabilitating Trees from Texas Sized Drought with Emmett Muennink, ARborjet, Delaney II, Disruptions in Horticulture 
Uncover the effects of severe drought on trees, identify telltale symptoms, and delve into prevention, management, and recovery tactics for a thriving, resilient landscape.
12:35 pm - 1:35 pm    Financial Management – Speakers TBD, Texas Grande, Hot Topics
Join us for an engaging Financial Management education panel discussion, designed to empower individuals with practical insights for financial success. Whether you're an entrepreneur, business professional, or someone eager to enhance personal financial literacy, this session covers strategic money management, investment fundamentals, financial health for businesses, tax optimization, and interactive case studies. Don't miss this opportunity to gain valuable skills and make informed financial decisions.
​12:35 pm - 1:35 pm    Texas Superstar Trees and Tree Trials with Laura Miller, Texas AgriLife Extension, Cross Timbers I & II, Plant Updates
Gain knowledge on Texas Superstar® trees which have been rigorously tested and proven to thrive in the challenging climate conditions of Texas. The Texas Superstar program is an initiative of Texas A&M AgriLife Research and Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service, aimed at promoting and identifying top-performing plants for Texas landscapers, and homeowners.
​12:35 pm - 1:35 pm     Proper use of Pesticide Labels for Turfgrass Management SPANISH ONLY SESSION, Dr. Manuel Chaverria, Texas A&M University, Homestead  
Staying in compliance with the Texas Department of Agriculture's (TDA) rules regarding pesticide labels for turfgrass management is essential for the success of your landscaping and agricultural endeavors. This informative session is tailored to equip your team with the knowledge and skills needed to navigate these regulations effectively.

1:50 pm - 2:50 pm  Concurrent Education Sessions    

1:50 pm - 2:50 pm    First Impressions Make your Entrance more than a Doorway with Rhonda Kaiser, Southern Home and Farm, Pheasant Ridge, Springing Forward
First impressions are everything especially to attracting new customers and creating brand recognition. During this session get ready to gain knowledge on a variety of ways to upgrade your entrance to catch the eye of your next customer!
​1:50 pm - 2:50 pm    The Value of SOPs with Heather Hogue, Everde Growers, Llano Estacado, Leading with Vision
Real people working for you, Real Results that work
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Having Standard Operating Procedures can help ensure the job gets done in a timely and efficient way. It also allows your employees to understand what the expectations are for each task. This helps ensure your team is engaged and following the company’s Standards, while also allowing the team member to experience self-satisfaction in a job well done. SOPs can also help the team by preventing stress, mistakes, and miscommunication among each other.
 
  • Understand why is it Important for your team to have an SOP on everyday processes.
  • How to begin creating your own SOP and who to include to get buy-in.
  • How to Roll out a new SOP to the team.
  • How to follow up on the effectiveness of new implementation. 
1:50 pm - 2:50 pm    Boost Your Employee's Moral with Compensations & Benefits with Terri Cook, Everde Growers, Delaney I, Culture of Performance
In today's world retention and finding skilled workers is essential. Is your company offering today's workforce what they want to say onboard long-term. Through this session learn strategies you can incorporate now to help improve employee moral and satisfaction.
1:50 pm - 2:50 pm    Irrigation & Water Trends with Karen Guz, VP Conservation for SAWS & the City of San Antonio, Delaney II, Disruptions in Horticulture
During this session Texas water trends will be unveiled. Join us for an exclusive opportunity to gain comprehensive insights into the irrigation and water trends shaping Texas. Discover how the city of San Antonio is forging partnerships with Green Industry professionals to champion sustainability. During this session you will gain a unique statewide perspective, illuminating the path towards a greener, water-conscious future. Don't miss out on this valuable knowledge-sharing session!
​1:50 pm - 2:50 pm    Hot Button Issues Impacting Leaders Today Panel Discussion – Moderated by Allison Berry, Environmental Landscape Solutions, Estela Garcia Perez, Fairway Landscape & Nursery, Inc., & Jason Shoffner, Gravely, An Ariens Company Brand, Texas Grande, Hot Topics
This session will unlock solutions for your company as it faces today's Green Industry Challenges. Statewide industry leaders will be conducting a panel discussion to share strategies and innovations to combat hot button issues. Discover how they tackle labor concerns, promote sustainability, and navigate the complex supply chain. Get answers to your burning questions and chart a path to a more resilient future.
1:50 pm - 2:50 pm   Love Your Citrus: Growing and Selling Citrus in Texas – WITH JEN HATALSKI, CALLOWAY'S NURSERY and George Shackelford with Brazos Citrus Nursery, Cross Timbers I & II, Plant Updates 
Elevate Citrus Sales by learning how to master Best Management Practices. Unlock the secrets to successful citrus cultivation and boost your sales. Gain valuable insights on teaching your customers the best management practices for growing citrus. Discover how to equip your staff with the knowledge needed to inspire and drive citrus sales. Don't miss this opportunity to become the go-to destination for citrus enthusiasts and growers.
​1:50 pm - 2:50 pm   Backflow Operations SPANISH ONLY SESSION, Ray Delagarza, Intrepid Irrigation, Homestead
Equip your team with the essential knowledge to effectively prevent backflow. During this session your crew will delve into the latest advancements in irrigation technology designed for backflow prevention. They will also learn how to harness these tools and techniques to safeguard your systems and ensure water quality. Elevate your team's expertise and stay ahead of the curve when it come to proper backflow prevention.

3:00 pm - 4:00 pm  Concurrent Education Sessions   

​3:00 pm - 4:00 pm    How to Create Better Customer Experiences to Boost Sales​ with Rhonda Kaiser, Southern Home and Farm, Pheasant Ridge, Springing Forward
Learn how to create engaging shopping experiences for your customers. In today's fast-paced world, customer attention spans are short. Join this session to discover the art of crafting captivating shopping experiences that keep customers engaged longer and eager to return to make more purchases. Don't miss out on this opportunity to enhance your customer retention and boost sales!
3:00 pm - 4:00 pm    Bringing KPI's to Life with Mindy Honcoop, Austin Alliance Group, Llano Estacado, Leading with Vision
Unlock the transformative power of Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) by attending this session. Designed for professionals and leaders across the Green Industry, this session will equip your team with the skills and strategies needed to breathe life into KPIs and drive meaningful results for your company.
3:00 pm - 4:00 pm    Creating an Employee Handbook with Dustin Paschal, Attorney Simon |Paschal PLLC, Delaney I, Culture of Performance
Unlock the key to creating a robust and impactful employee handbook with expert guidance from Dustin Paschal. Gain valuable insights and practical tips on developing a comprehensive and effective handbook for your business. From compliance essentials to fostering a positive workplace culture, this session will equip you with the knowledge you need to create a handbook that resonates with your team. Don't miss out on this opportunity to elevate your HR practices and empower your workforce!
​3:00 pm - 4:00 pm    Updates on Emerald Ash Borer with Emmett Muennink, ArborJet, Delaney II, Disruptions in Horticulture
Safeguard your Trees by defending them against Emerald Ash Borer. Discover the essential strategies and tips to protect your trees from the destructive Emerald Ash Borer (EAB). This informative session will empower you and your team with the knowledge needed to identify, prevent, and manage EAB infestations. Learn about proven treatments, early detection methods, and best practices for preserving the health and beauty of your valuable ash trees. Don't wait until it's too late – fortify your trees against this relentless threat!
​3:00 pm - 4:00 pm    Battery Operated Equipment Panel – Greg Fox, Clean Scapes, LP, Texas Grande, Hot Topics
Discover the game-changing potential of battery-operated equipment, including autonomous mowers, to combat labor shortages and boost profitability. During this session explore the best practices for harnessing battery-operated equipment's full potential. Uncover batter operated equipment benefits, address potential drawbacks, and make strategic decisions on when and where to deploy them to supercharge your company's success.
​3:00 pm - 4:00 pm    Production Planning for Nurseries - Panel Discussion –  James Plyler, Native Texas Nursery as moderator, panelists include: Austin Quimby, Green Lake Nursery, and Kristen Kennedy, YC Nurseries, Cross Timbers I & II, Plant Updates
Elevate your greenhouse nursery success with smart production planning. Learn how to unlock the power of production planning in greenhouse nurseries for efficient resource allocation, top-notch crop scheduling, and cost-effective inventory management. Ensure quality, meet customer demands, and stay agile in the face of seasonal changes and market dynamics while minimizing risks. In this session, your team will discover the secret to thriving and successful nursery operations!
3:00 pm - 4:00 pm     Deep Dive into System Operations, SPANISH ONLY SESSION, Ray Delagarza, Intrepid Irrigation, Homestead
Join us for a comprehensive session on irrigation system operations, where you'll gain valuable insights into optimizing water management for your customer's landscapes. Learn the key principles of efficient irrigation, from scheduling and maintenance to water-saving techniques. Maximize plant health, conserve resources, and enhance a landscape's beauty with expert guidance. 

4:10 pm - 5:00 pm  Concurrent Education Sessions 

​4:10 pm - 5:00 pm   Houseplant School - Rolling out a Houseplant Program with McKenna Jenkins, TCNP, Alldredge Nursery , Pheasant Ridge, Springing Forward
​Take a deep dive into growing houseplants with McKenna Jenkins as she takes us behind the scenes of a tropical growing and retail operation in Midland, Texas. Here, she will discuss six ways to be successful when rolling out a houseplant program within your business as well as provide tips and answer all of your tropical plant related questions.

During this session you will learn about:
  • Growing and Cultural Requirements
  • Selecting containers and crop times
  • Methods if Growing
  • Sourcing Young Plants
  • Retail Ready and Add-On sales
4:10 pm - 5:00 pm    Leadership and Relationships: The Rocket Fuel of Sales with Alexander Chandler, Alexander Advisory Group, Llano Estacado, Leading with Vision
Leadership is an influence!  By recognizing and embracing leadership traits, you can lead your company to ignite sales by instilling these skills throughout your organization.  Leadership is also about relationships.  Relationships start from within and lay the groundwork for establishing a customer-facing business.   A customer-based organization relies on establishing a healthy ecosystem to cement relationships.  Healthy relationships lead to referrals, increased sales, and profits.  Leadership and relationships are the fuel that ignites sales.

Takeaways you will learn during this session:
  1. Leadership is influence.
  2. Effective leadership is pervasive and creates “Buy-In”.
  3. Leading a relationship-based team ignites sales.
  4. Proper use of relationships creates a customer faced business
  5. Creating a healthy ecosystem expands sales opportunities.
​4:10 pm - 5:00 pm    Foundational Feedback: Giving Feedback That Builds Trust and Performance with Courtney Ramsey, Courtney Ramsey Speaks, Delaney I, Culture of Performance
"I have some feedback for you." It's the sentence that makes us all want to take off running!
 
Providing feedback and coaching to your team, peers, or even your boss doesn't have to be painful. Let Courtney show you an easy way to deliver feedback while also creating the open and authentic culture everyone wants!
 
Outcomes:
  • Use a simple process to deliver feedback that's impactful and well received
  • Set expectations so employees welcome feedback, even if they're not used to receiving it 
  • Make one small communication tweak to improve your relationships at work
4:10 pm - 5:00 pm    National Water Updates – Nathan Bowen, IA VP Advocacy and Public Affairs, Delaney II, Distruptions in Horticulture
During this session we will be addressing national water challenges. Hear from industry about the latest national water updates and gain insights into water issues across the nation and discover how the industry is rallying together to find innovative solutions. Learn how collaboration and proactive measures are shaping a sustainable water future for all. Don't miss this opportunity to be part of a collective effort to tackle critical water challenges!
​4:10 pm - 5:00 pm    Safety Protocols - are Yours up to Speed? (Panel Discussion) – Moderator Patrick Nuckles, Clean Scapes, LP, Panelists: Mike Laskowski, Austin Wood REcycling, Jon Pena, Leaf Landscape Supply and Greg Fox, Clean Scapes, LP, Texas Grande, Hot Topics
Priority #1: Ensuring On-Site Safety for Your Team! Join us for a paramount session dedicated to the safety of your staff on the job site. Gain valuable insights into the latest safety protocols and discover strategies to ensure strict adherence by your team. Learn how to create a secure and compliant work environment, empowering your staff to perform at their best while keeping safety at the forefront. Don't compromise when it comes to workplace safety – join us to safeguard your team and your success!
​4:10 pm - 5:00 pm    Pest Detection – Molly Keck, Texas Agrilife Extension, Cross Timbers I & II, Plant Updates
Unlock the secret to a thriving landscape with early pest detection. Join us to understand why spotting plant pests in their early stages is a game-changer. Discover how timely detection can prevent infestations from spreading, reduce damage, and save your customer's beloved plants. Learn the art of vigilant landscape care and protect your customer's green oasis. Don't let pests win – stay vigilant, stay green!
​4:10 pm - 5:00 pm     Plant Problems and Maintenance, SPANISH ONLY SESSION, Katerina Graham, Texas AgriLife Extension, Homestead
During this session we will unlock the secrets of plant health and maintenance. You will delve into the world of plant care, best management practices and and maintenance. Learn how to identify and address common plant problems, from pests and diseases to nutrient deficiencies. Discover the essential tips and techniques to keep your customer's plants flourishing year-round. 

5:10 pm – 6:30 pm Opening Night Reception
Texas Grande (includes one free drink ticket) 

Tuesday, January 9, 2023

7:15 am - 8:00 am  Registration, Exhibits and Coffee
(Texas Grande)

8:00 am - 9:10 am Morning Announcements & Keynote Session: Servicetopia – The Ultimate Customer Service Experience with Jason Young, Culturetopia
​In this presentation, Jason Young explains how a company can deliver a transformational service experience — Servicetopia — with each and every customer encounter. What is Servicetopia? Imagine an environment where all employees are aligned with the mission and vision of the company and every day, they go to work committed to providing exceptional service to every customer. They understand their purpose in the organization. They perform their duties with passion as they seek to meet every customer’s needs. They are professional and work tirelessly to build customer loyalty. They follow a carefully outlined process to ensure customer satisfaction and eliminate pain and frustration. And in the end, they add a little pizazz to surprise and delight the customer. Purpose. Passion. Professional. Process. Pizazz. These are the hallmarks of Servicetopia, the behaviors  required for delivering exceptional customer service,  every day.  Jason Young shares how a company can deliver on Servicetopia, where high levels of customer satisfaction and retention are sustained; and where employees derive personal and professional satisfaction from delivering great service and the customer is the beneficiary. You’ll discover that a commitment to Servicetopia can help your organization make a name for itself and impact the bottom line.

​During his decade-long tenure at Southwest Airlines, Jason Young played a pivotal role in crafting and nurturing the company's groundbreaking training initiatives that underpin its acclaimed leadership and customer service culture, highly regarded within the business realm today. While the precise strategies employed are not detailed in the provided text, Young's contributions were instrumental in their development.

10:00 am – 4:30 pm   TOUR
Meet up in front of DFW Hilton with TNLA’s Corey Perry, Director Legislative & Regulatory Affairs, (Includes Complimentary Lunch) MUST BE REGISTERED FOR TOUR TO ATTEND

5:15 pm – 6:45 pm     TNLA Awards Festival Registration
​ Texas Grande, MUST BE REGISTERED TO ATTEND

6:00 pm – 6:30 pm     TNLA Awards Festival Reception
Texas Grande

6:45 pm – 8:30 pm     TNLA Awards Festival (Presentation)
Texas Grande

Wednesday, January 10, 2023

8:30 am - 9:30 am  Registration, Exhibits and Coffee
​(Texas Grande)

10:00 am – 12:00 pm   TNLA Foundation Leadership Bootcamp Graduation, Closing Keynote Presentation: Going Beyond the Brand with Karen McCullough with Karen McCullough and Co., + Brunch Buffet (Complimentary) ​
TNLA's Leadership Bootcamp Graduation Celebration!
We're thrilled to announce the graduation of 24 exceptional professionals who have successfully completed TNLA's Leadership Bootcamp. These dedicated individuals have invested their time in acquiring 39 hours of invaluable education in HR, Finance, Communications, Leadership, and Teamwork.
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Their journey has taken them to diverse locations, from San Antonio to San Marcos, Cedar Park, and Grapevine, where they've engaged with industry experts and embarked on enlightening tours. They've explored strategies for effective onboarding, the art of nurturing a thriving company culture, and received expert guidance on becoming exceptional leaders. Join us in celebrating the achievements of these outstanding graduates who are poised to make a profound impact in their fields and organizations. Don't miss this chance to be part of their success story!

Closing Keynote with Karen McCullough: Going Beyond the Brand
Trace the evolution of brands that have shaped today's 'Culture of Engagement.' Gain insights into how your organization's culture not only drives performance but also mirrors its purpose, making it a talent magnet. Also, discover the transformative impact of simple behaviors that foster engagement and collaboration within teams. During this session you and your team will dive deep into the influence of your personal brand, learning how it shapes not only your career but also the very culture of your organization. Don't miss this opportunity to embark on a journey, empowering you to create a culture of engagement, driving success, attracting top talent, and propelling your career to new heights!