Goleta Valley Beautiful joined California ReLeaf in the 1990’s as a small all volunteer urban forestry organization, about the same time I became involved with both organizations. In those days, annual conferences were a homey affair, usually involving staying overnight at a college dorm in the summer when the facilities weren’t being used by students. As our organizations have matured, we’ve been able to stay on the forefront of what works best in urban forestry through the leadership of California ReLeaf linking us with a statewide army of volunteer organizations. The resources California ReLeaf develops on our behalf are the essential building blocks for sustaining the core of Goleta Valley Beautiful. But while the leadership has changed, and the conferences have become more polished, California ReLeaf is still the go to place for recharging your personal and professional batteries. Joe, Chuck, Ashley and those who have come before and the next generation to come have been treasured colleagues and personal friends. They listen, anticipate, and lead. They help us grow by sharing, and we all prosper because of it. We need more of them.