Before we get back into our routines after attending the APA National Planning Conference held in Phoenix, Arizona, I want to share some thoughts.  We couldn’t have picked an environment more diametrically opposed to the location of our 2016 APA LA state chapter conference in Houma, LA.  Phoenix is in the heart of the western desert with mountains in the backdrop. Houma is in the heart of bayou country surrounded by water.  Phoenix averages 7 inches of rain per year, we average 60 inches! The air is so dry in Arizona that perspiration disappears before you even notice it.

During February, former Louisiana Chapter President Stephen Villavaso, FAICP, J.D. attended the Executive Committee winter meeting of the Chapter Presidents Council held in San Diego. "It was amazing." says Villavaso - who also encourages us to truly read our issues of Planning Magazine. Key highlights from the San Diego meeting include:

Well, our 2016 Annual State Planning Conference in Houma is now history and it seemed to me that a good time was enjoyed by all who attended. We heard encouraging words from U.S. Congressman Garrett Graves, learned much about threats to Louisiana’s coast and about techniques for mitigating them, and enjoyed some delicious south Louisiana seafood as we conversed with friends both old and new. Speaking of old friends – we were joined by Dr. Fritz Wagner, FAICP, former Dean of the UNO College of Urban and Public Affairs – who presented our Excellence in Planning Awards.