FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
DATE: November 17, 2008
CONTACT: Molly Baldwin, mollybaldwin@assnhqtrs.com

Kentucky's Eddie Atherton Earns CGM Status

(Baltimore, MD) - The Professional Grounds Management Society (PGMS) has announced that Eddie Atherton of Owensboro, Ky. has become the 118th grounds management professional to successfully complete its Certified Grounds Manager (CGM) program. Atherton currently serves as the Horticulturist/Grounds Manager for the City of Owensboro where he has been for the past 20 years. PGMS recently spent a few minutes getting to know Eddie.

PGMS: How long have you been a PGMS member?
Atherton: Approximately three years.

PGMS: What is your current position at work? How long have you been in that position?
Atherton: My current position is Horticulturist/Grounds Manager. As of July I have been with the City of Owensboro for 20 years. The first 12 were as Horticulturist with responsibilities for all landscape related operations, some snow work, and park and right-of-way trees. Approximately eight years ago I took on the additional responsibilities of Parks Maintenance. Areas of responsibilities include all grounds related park maintenance operations, athletic field/facility management, additional snow work, playgrounds, and special event set-up. We also do Christmas decorations, are involved in storm event cleanup, and about anything else that comes along that requires manpower.

PGMS: Why did you want to become a CGM?
Atherton: The City was working on the APWA accreditation and that was a part of that. It also goes along to add to my other credentials. I am an International Society of Arboriculture Certified Arborist. I have served on the Kentucky Arborist Association board of directors, the Kentucky Urban Forestry Council (council organized by the Kentucky Division of Forestry), and presently serve as the secretary of the Kentucky Sports Turf Managers Association.

PGMS: What did you think of the CGM program?
Atherton: I think it is a good program. There are some good challenges to think about as you work through the process. The open book portion is an eye opening experience. I personally think there could be a little refinement to the program so that it better meets the needs of the membership which is both commercial and government/institutional, etc. Some of the questions were difficult to look at when you work in the municipal situation.

PGMS: What advice do you have for aspiring CGMs?
Atherton: Take everything in that you can and expose yourself to any opportunities you can to broaden your knowledge and capabilities. Associate yourself with other professionals and organizations, get involved and play a role. You will get more out of the experience, gain respect of your peers, and recognition for what you do. I have made some very good friends and developed quite a list of resources through those contacts.
Take pictures, plan ahead, get numbers, maps, and develop references. They will be helpful through the process. Start gathering those early on so that they do not delay your completion of the process.

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