The Value of Connection
Well, we made it through another summer of challenging heat, busy schedules, landscape design/build and maintenance projects, client consultations, and yes, our share of disappointments and unexpected outcomes.
As business owners and industry professionals, we all face challenges in our personal and family lives. When we add the responsibility of leading employees and teams who have challenges of their own, the weight of those responsibilities can sometimes leave our plates feeling quite full and even a little unbalanced.
That’s why the relationships we build within our professional community are so important.
Being able to share our challenges, experiences, and success stories with fellow industry professionals in an atmosphere of trust and mutual respect is invaluable to both our professional success and personal growth.
Over the years, our Orange County Chapter has heard countless testimonials from seasoned professionals and newer contractor and associate members alike about how their involvement in the California Landscape Contractors Association (CLCA) has encouraged, motivated, and empowered them to excel, accomplish more, and generously share their knowledge and experiences with others.
That is the true value of belonging to a professional association.
I would also like to extend my sincere congratulations to all our 2026 Orange County Beautification Award winners, along with their construction, maintenance, and associate member teams. Your dedication to craftsmanship, professionalism, and excellence continues to raise the standards of our industry. You have certainly earned this year’s recognition and honors!
A special thank-you goes to our generous sponsors and our dedicated Orange County Chapter Board of Directors, whose consistent efforts, commitment, and teamwork helped make this year’s awards program an outstanding success.
I’m also pleased to share that our chapter has welcomed new members nearly every month this year. This continued growth reflects a renewed enthusiasm, fresh perspectives, and an exciting vision for the future of our OC Chapter.
As we approach the final months of 2026, I encourage all our members to attend the upcoming CLCA Annual Convention in Carlsbad, November 4-6. This is another wonderful opportunity to reconnect with fellow professionals, exchange ideas, strengthen relationships, and celebrate the achievements of our association.
And please save the date for our Annual Holiday Dinner on December 10. It will be an evening of fellowship, celebration, and camaraderie with chapter members and state leadership.
Finally, thank you to each of you for your continued support of our chapter through your membership, participation, and willingness to contribute to the success of our professional community.
Together, we continue to educate, encourage, and empower one another to reach new heights in both our professional and personal lives.
I look forward to seeing many of you in Carlsbad this November!
See you out on the trails.
~ Edward L. Wallace, 2026 CLCA OC Chapter President