Homestead Gardens’ Don Riddle Receives GCA’s Hall of Fame Award
Garden Centers of America (GCA) recently announced the winner of its prestigious Jack Schneider Award: Don Riddle of Homestead Gardens in Davidsonville, Md. The award, selected by GCA’s board of directors, is based on the nominee’s lifetime career contribution to the industry and support for GCA.
Riddle received the award at Homestead Gardens during the final stop on the 2008 Holiday Tour. “This is such a special award, and it was so exciting to present it in Don’s own store,” said GCA President Ken Long. “Don’s devotion to the industry and, specifically, Garden Centers of America is unsurpassed, and we are thrilled to recognize his efforts.”
Former Jack Schneider Award winner Ernest Wertheim was in attendance and took the stage – along with a host of other board members and tour attendees – to praise Riddle’s achievements and dedication to the industry, as well as share stories and fond memories of their relationship with Riddle.
Founded in 1973, Homestead Gardens has become one of the largest independent, single-location garden centers in the country. In addition to the retail store, Homestead Gardens also includes an award-winning landscape design division and a 250-acre growing division with a state-of-the-art 5-acre greenhouse.
A visit to Homestead Gardens is not just another shopping trip; it’s an experience. Noted for its marketing campaigns that entice consumer traffic from nearby areas, customers stroll the landscaped grounds for design ideas, relax with gourmet coffees, visit with llamas in the Llama Barn or explore the garden center. Riddle is not afraid to try new things, which creates a dynamic, unique store. He also employs a visual merchandising team charged with presenting product in new, original ways.
Riddle is an active member and past president of Garden Centers of America. He served on the original board of directors for America in Bloom and is currently serving as vice president of the American Horticultural Society. GCA also recognized Homestead Gardens in 2004 as Garden Center of the Year.
For more information on Homestead Gardens, visit www.homesteadgardens.com. For more information on Garden Centers of America or the Jack Schneider Award, visit www.gardencentersofamerica.org.
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