Message from the President ]

ev·o·lu·tion [ˌevəˈlooSH(ə)n]

2a: a process of change in a certain direction: UNFOLDING.

1c: a process of continuous change from a lower, simpler, or worse to a higher, more complex, or better state: GROWTH.

2c: a process of gradual and relatively peaceful social, political, and economic advance. d: something EVOLVED.

Timothy Gray, WSNLA President

Pacific Stone Company

Everett

Greetings! Doesn’t it feel like we’ve come thru an evolution these past two years? The Covid pandemic has been a major evolution. Think about it: our world hasn’t been thru something like this in a century. We’ve had to change so many aspects of our daily lives, both professional and personal. Looking back, it’s hard to comprehend all that has happened since early March 2020. I strongly believe all of us have traveled so far from those dark days.

This has been central to my role as President of WSNLA in 2022. Being open to the unfolding changes as we step out of a pandemic-focused society. Embrace the growth that comes with change. Look back at 2022 and you’ll realize we’ve evolved. Working with Breanne and Holly, plus the Board, we’ve returned Board Meetings to in-person. Sort of. We now have hybrid meetings. Several people attend the meeting in person, led by our staff, and everyone else remotes into it. It’s been successful, and we’re continuing this evolution into 2023.

We’ve not gathered together regularly since 2019; this needed to change. After considerable discussion we decided to hold two in-person Celebrations of WSNLA’s 85th Anniversary. In September we celebrated at Walrath Landscape Supply in Gig Harbor. What a wonderful evening! A great crowd, delicious food, and wonderful weather out in Walrath’s nursery. The highlight was having our own horticultural icon, Ed Hume, join us. Ed visited everyone, and gave an inspiring talk on WSNLA’s past, and where we can go in the future. OK, as a childhood ‘fanboy’ of Mr. Hume, I was so excited to talk with Ed! And listen to his stories. I wasn’t alone! Since I know he’s reading this: Hello, Ed!

Later in September we had another celebration at Sunnyside Nursery in Marysville. Another great event, although a bit darker and cooler. Thank goodness for their greenhouse where we reconnected with so many peers and friends. The venerable ‘Whistling Gardener’ Steve Smith and the lovely Pauline Smith were our ‘stars’ this evening. There were many sceptics from the crowd about me cooking their dinner. This is something I’ve done for many WALP meetings hosted at Pacific Stone Co. over the years. Let’s just say that a lot of grilled ribs and baked beans were consumed that night! If we repeat these Celebrations in 2023 come join us! I’ll cook again…

It’s been an honor to serve as your President this year. Thank you for reading my words, and thanks to those who responded with personal emails. Working with Breanne and Holly, plus our Executive Board and Board of Directors is rewarding. What a great organization, and wonderful group of the kindest people. Let’s stay the course in 2023. Help us continue to expand, grow, and change the Washington State Nursery & Landscape Association! Cheers, Tim