Having recently returned from the ASLA National meeting I am energized and excited to serve as your President for the next 12 months.  We are planning a wonderful year of programs including more CEU courses at no cost to our members, office visits, lectures, a vibrant awards banquet and much more.  Unfortunately, in the very near future much of our collective energy may need to be directed to towards the preservation of Licensure for Landscape Architects in Virginia.  Our profession and livelihood as registered landscape architects are once again being threatened.  This issue is just unfolding now.  As we know more we will keep you informed.  Below is a summary of what we know to date:

Threat of de-regulation of landscape architects in VA
• The Governor's Commission on Government Reform and Restructuring's  11.14.11 recommendations including the de-regulation of Landscape Architects
• This recommendation is categorized under “Reduce barriers to business”
• The VA Chapter (VAASLA) will lead a coordinated effort with the full support of the Potomac Chapter to defeat this recommendation.
• A well organized and very aggressive state-wide response will be required ASAP. Only the General Assembly can de-regulate landscape architects so we have some time to prepare. This effort will be comparable to our past efforts to seek licensure.
• The keys to defeating these threats to our professional licensure in the past have been a well coordinated and consistent response with a high level of participation by Registered Landscape Architects in VA
• Please contact me with any questions. 
 The link to the Commission's webpage is below.
 
http://www.reform.virginia.gov/ 

Have a wonderful Thanksgiving holiday.

Steve Lefton, President

Potomac Chapter ASLA