There have been meetings before and there will be meetings in the future but, for me, this past Calscape was one of the best.  When you realize that 99% of the work involved is all volunteer you have to be amazed.  The Committee and Board take precious hours from business and family to plan and coordinate this annual "meeting of the tribes".  Attendees came from all over, Hawaii, Nevada, Texas, New York and, of course, California.  The highlight was the Awards Banquet and induction into the Hall of Fame. 

Rich Gaines
Rich originally trained as an architect but his love of plants led him into foliage and interiorplantscaping.  He, literally, wrote the book.  Yep, he wrote one of the very first books on the subject and much of the material was later adopted for use by ALCA and established industry standards.  Along with partner Mike Lewis, Rich operated the successful interiorscape company Plantscape House in Orlando and was always a major contributor to the industry.  I’m proud to say he has been a friend for all these years.  Congratulations.

Paul Ecke Jr.
Inducted into the Hall of Fame posthoumously, Paul Ecke, Jr.  singlehandedly made the poinsettia we take so for granted today, the Holiday icon it is today.  Through shrewd marketing, by sending thousands of red points to the Today Show, the Tonight Show etc., he made what started out as a weed in Mexico the expected, mandatory plant purchase each year.  Wish we could copy his strategy for green plants today.

For Me
The thrill is to see all those faces and put them with the voices I talk to on the phone.

Next Year
Yep, it’s Vegas, baby., September 26-28, 2007.   Sure to be great seminars, wonderful Banquet and Award Program, but, best of all, it will be another Meeting of the Clan.