By Bill Klutho
December 22, 2005

Traditionally, as we near the end of a year and approach the start of another, the president of an organization is supposed to reflect and deliver a kind of state of the organization report. So here goes: TOCA is in great shape. Our membership continues to increase and our financial situation is bright. As we get ready to blast our way to the New Year, let's look at 2006.

Businesses are trying to get more accomplished with less - less money, less time, and fewer resources. For communicators in the green industry like us, it has meant covering more stories and events with fewer people but having more output expected.

Another disturbing trend of business is trying to blacken their bottom line by reducing the ranks of employees. Dumbsizing is one term used to describe the phenomenon. (Let's not ever confuse that with the average IQ of TOCA members!)

What can we do? We can only work as hard (and smart) as possible and continue to do great work. Trust me, somebody always notices. That recognition is one great reason to be a member of TOCA. Working together gives us the ability to work smarter and build lasting relationships. Which leads us to some real TOCA business.

It's “California, Here We Come!” when TOCA holds its 17th annual meeting May 3 and 4 in Napa Valley. You won't want to miss this one. The meeting will be held at the gorgeous Embassy Suites Napa Valley located at the southern tip of one of the world's premier wine producing areas. This will be our first mid-week gathering. Our new schedule allows you to return home for the weekend or, better yet, have your family join you in Napa and enjoy a few extra days.

To make the Napa meeting the best ever, we formed a program committee this year. Members include Larry Aylward, Troy Blewett, Debbie Clayton, Bill Klutho, Executive Director Den Gardner, and me. The program is still being finalized, so some topics and speakers are subject to change.

GENERAL RULES
This contest will be open to all active and affiliate TOCA members and non-members. Photocopied entries must be articles published between Jan.1 and Dec. 31, 2005, or collateral/ads/brochures, etc., produced and printed within the same time period.

An entry fee of $30 per entry will be required. Non-members: First entry $145. First entry includes a one-year membership. All entries thereafter are $30 each. Checks should be made payable to the Turf & Ornamental Communicators Association.