Growing Concern October 2014 by Sandy Munley

Growing Concern

The

October 2014

A p u b l i c a t i o n o f t h e O h i o La n d s c a p e A s s o c i a t i o n

Landscape Facility Tour Central Ohio October 16, 2014 PAGE 7

Build a Better Landscape Business Northeast & Central Ohio November 2014 PAGE 39

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President’s column

CREATIVE DISSATISFACTION Have you ever worked with someone who, no matter how well things are going for them or the company, never seems satisfied? When that big job came through or the customer they were after finally made the choice to buy from them — they seemed very reserved or unhappy while everyone else was ready to do cartwheels? When the job is done very well they are the first one asking “what could we have done better?” Well, I’m that guy! I don’t believe I’m difficult to work with, though I’ll leave that to my co-workers and fellow board members to comment on. Actually, most of my dissatisfaction and criticism is pointed directly at who it should be — me! I coined the term ‘creative dissatisfaction’ while talking to the president of our company several years ago. We were going through a very good period of business, and we were discussing how we got there and what to do in order to keep things rolling. In our conversation he sensed I

was unsatisfied. When I should have been fist-pumping and hurting my shoulder from patting myself on the back, I was being critical of my work. I thought I should have done more, I thought I could have been better. He then asked me if I’m ever satisfied. I struggled to explain myself, and did so by spewing out that I suffer from creative dissatisfaction. When things are going well, I look back and think of all of the things I could have done better, and how to improve our customers’ experiences. When we are in an economic downturn and/or the weather is playing havoc with our industry, I struggle with what more I could have done to improve things. By putting our heads together, we came up with how to define the term and me (Hey, if I can make up a term, I can define it!). We defined my “creative dissatisfaction” as: the originality of thought driven by an attitude of not being satisfied. Do not waste your time looking, because you will not find it in Webster’s Dictionary!

Joe Twardzik, CID Wolf Creek Company

…the originality of thought driven by an attitude of not being satisfied.

continued on page 6 The Growing Concern x October 2014 x 3

Ta b l e o f c o n t e n t s O c t o b e r 2 0 1 4 w w w. o h i o l a n d s c a p e r s . o r g

Ohio’s Professional Green I n d u s t r y A s s o c i at i o n Ohio Landscape Association 9240 Broadview Road Broadview Heights, Ohio 44147 Phone: 440-717-0002 or 1-800-335-6521 Fax: 440-717-0004 Web: www.ohiolandscapers.org or www.myohiolandscape.com Editor Brett Della Santina, Ohio Landscape Association Regular Writers Michael J. Donnellan, King Financial, Inc. Jim Funai, COLP, Cuyahoga Community College Shelley Funai, Stan Hywet Hall and Gardens Sandy Munley, Ohio Landscape Association Bobbie Schwartz, FAPLD, Bobbie’s Green Thumb Joe Twardzik, CID, Wolf Creek Company

Features

President’s Column

Creative Dissatisfaction

Perennial Focus

Anemone x hybrida Japanese Anemone

Plant Of The Month

Advertising Information Submission deadline: 10th of month prior to publication month. For advertising and classified rates, please call 1-800-335-6521 Disclaimer The Ohio Landscape Association, its board of directors, staff and the editor of The Growing Concern neither endorse any product(s) or attest to the validity of any statements made about products mentioned in this, past or subsequent issues of this publication. Similarly, the opinions expressed in The Growing Concern are those of the authors and do not necessarily represent the views of the Ohio Landscape Association.

Rhododendron viscosum Swamp Azalea

Fiscal Fitness

Gold And Metals As A Hedge

Officers President Joe Twardzik, CID

For Safety Sake

President-Elect Steve Moore

Machine Guards

32 The Challenge Of Diversity In Organizations

Directions

Why Haven’t You Entered?

Inside Every Issue

6 35 37

Welcome New Members ClassifiedS Advertising Index

Directors Eric Brubeck, ASLA Adam Capiccioni Nathan Kowalsick Maria McConnell Cathy Serafin

Treasurer Bryan Taynor Immediate Past President James Arch, ASLA OLA Staff Executive Director Sandy Munley Membership Coordinator Jean Koch Communications & Events Manager Brett Della Santina

Ca l e n d a r o f E V e n t s U p c o m i n g OL A m e e t i n g s , e d u c a t i o n s e m i n a r s a n d o t h e r g r e e n i n d u s t r y e v e n t s

OCTOBER

OLA Landscape Facility Tour Meeting – Central Ohio OCTOBER 16, 2014 Join us for a very informative evening at Peabody Landscape Group in Columbus, Ohio, as we tour their operation and enjoy networking with your peers. Peabody’s operation is a full-service landscape firm. RSVP by October 6. For more information contact OLA at 1-800-335-6521 or visit OhioLandscapers.org.

Green Industry Conference (GIC) OCTOBER 22-24, 2014 PLANET’s Green Industry Conference is held in conjunction with GIE + Expo – each year in Louisville, KY. The conference has many educational and networking opportunities. For more information go to landcarenetwork.org

GIE + Expo & Hardscape North America OCTOBER 23-24, 2014 The Green Industry & Equipment Expo (GIE + Expo) and Hardscape North America are co-located in the Kentucky Exposition Center, Louisville, KY. The show includes a 19-acre outdoor demo area. For more information go to GIE+Expo.com.

NOVEMBER

OLA Annual Meeting NOVEMBER 13, 2014 The November meeting is the OLA Annual meeting. Chuck Bowen of Lawn and Landscape Magazine will present the State of the Industry Report. RSVP by November 3. For more information contact OLA at 1-800-335-6521 or visit OhioLandscapers.org.

OLA Build a Better Landscape Business – NE Ohio NOVEMBER 18-19, 2014 Back by popular demand! Two-day workshop. Take the guesswork out! Learn your costs, build a budget for your company and learn how to estimate your work for profit! Workshop instructed by Landscape Management Network. Held at Cuyahoga Valley Career Center. For more information contact OLA at 1-800-335-6521 or visit OhioLandscapers.org.

OLA Build a Better Landscape Business – Central Ohio NOVEMBER 20-21, 2014

OTF Trade Show DECEMBER 9-11, 2014

Back by popular demand! Two-day workshop hosted and sponsored by Ohio CAT, Columbus, OH. Take the guesswork out! Learn your costs, build a budget for your company and learn how to estimate your work for profit! Workshop instructed by Landscape Management Network. For more information contact OLA at 1-800-335-6521 or visit OhioLandscapers.org.

48th Annual OTF Conference and Trade Show now featuring the OSU Green Industry Short Course! Held at Kalahari Resort and Convention Center in Sandusky, Ohio. OLA is partnering with OTF for this event and OLA members will receive member pricing on this event! Visit the OLA Booth at this show! For more information contact OTF at 614-285-4683 or visit OTFShow.org.

DECEMBER

JANUARY

OLA Pruning Clinic – NE Ohio DECEMBER 1, 2014

OLA MEETING – NE OHIO JANUARY 29, 2015

Learn proper pruning techniques to promote plant health and control the size of plant material. Classroom and outdoor hands-on session included. Hosted by Willoway Nurseries in Avon, OH. For more information contact OLA at 1-800-335-6521 or visit OhioLandscapers.org. Hurry – This is always a sell-out!

This meeting will feature attorneys Kim Alabasi and Joshua Strickland of Dworken & Berstein Co., LPA. Held at St. Michael’s Woodside in Broadview Hts. Details TBA. For more information contact OLA at 1-800-335-6521 or visit OhioLandscapers.org.

OLA Pruning Clinic – Central Ohio DECEMBER 2, 2014

FEBRUARY

GREAT BIG HOME AND GARDEN SHOW FEBRUARY 6 - 15, 2015

Learn proper pruning techniques to promote plant health and control the size of plant material. Classroom and outdoor hands-on session included. Hosted by Willoway Nurseries in Hilliard, OH. For more information contact OLA at 1-800-335-6521 or visit OhioLandscapers.org.

Visit the OLA garden at the Great Big Home and Garden consumer show at the I-X Center in Cleveland featuring home improvement and landscape solutions for homeowners. Members are invited to help build and staff the OLA garden. For information on the show visit greatbighomeandgarden.com.

Landscape Ohio! Awards Program Entry Deadline DECEMBER 5, 2014

OLA MEETING – CENTRAL OHIO FEBRUARY 19, 2015

All submissions are due in the OLA office by 5 pm. No Exceptions! Be sure to enter Ohio’s most prestigious landscape enhancement awards program. Winning projects are featured in Landscape Ohio! Magazine, a supplement to Ohio Magazine and Cleveland Magazine. For more information contact OLA at 1-800-335-6521 or visit OhioLandscapers.org.

This meeting will feature Charles VanderKooi. Details TBA. For more information contact OLA at 1-800-335-6521 or visit OhioLandscapers.org.

OHIO GREEN INDUSTRY ADVOCACY DAY FEBRUARY 25, 2015 Learn about the state-level legislative issues that could affect your business and have a unique opportunity to visit with your state Senator and Representative at the State Capitol in Columbus. Details TBA. The Growing Concern x October 2014 x 5

President’s column continued from pg 3 I’ve always tried to be calculated — to work through ideas before they are implemented, or review them as soon as they happen to improve on what we did. It is important to asses all ideas and situations in business. I often find myself playing the devil’s advocate in meetings; at times while deliberating over items I’m in support of. It is very important to consider the negatives and not only blinded by the positives. On the flip side I also cannot be afraid to try new things, or hold myself back worrying of failure. I have made my fair share of mistakes. I’m sure I make several per week but failing is never a problem, however not learning from failure is. I learn from my own mistakes and failures as well as mistakes and failures of others. I am not adverse to celebrating accomplishments, and I do find time to enjoy life both inside and outside of work; but I am always trying to improve on what I’ve already accomplished. All situations — good or bad — are opportunities for us to grow, and hopefully make the places we spend a good deal of time, our jobs, much more enjoyable for everyone. Never stop working to improve yourself personally or professionally through education and what you see around you every day. I’m working on improving myself daily and I still have a long way to go!

WELCOME NEW MEMBERS !

The Ohio Landscape Association is delighted to welcome the following new members to the association: REGULAR MEMBER: Tab Property Enhancement 4521 Newkirk Drive Brunswick, OH 44212 (440) 821-2385 Trace Baum

6 x Official Publication of The Ohio Landscape Association

OLA MEETING ANNOUNCEMENT Central Ohio

October 16, 2014 Landscape Facility Tour HELD AT

Peabody Landscape Group Columbus, OH

Peabody Landscape Group, Inc. was founded by twin brothers David and Douglas Peabody in 1982. Located in central Ohio the company has grown throughout the area and state of Ohio to provide landscape design-build and environmental site management services. Whether they are installing a mass planting on a commercial site, building a new brick patio at a residence, or attending to perennial gardens their moto is: EXPERIENCE • VALUE • SATISFACTION Peabody’s current corporate “home” was established in 1996 and is a site that was originally a turn of the century working farm. The dairy barn now houses a small equipment repair shop, landscape equipment and numerous supplies. The master plan for the offices and facility was designed to maintain the rural appearance of a country homestead. Landscape and hardscape elements include farm fencing, a garden style picket fence, clay brick pavers for pedestrian walkways and massed plantings. Specific types of plants have been designed on the grounds to create a mini-arboretum. Twelve acres of the property is dedicated to an ornamental and shade tree nursery. The emphasis of the landscape setting was to be a park setting and has enabled clients to view, identify and select certain materials for their planned outdoor living space. The staff at Peabody is open and willing to share many ideas that have helped with the growth and business development of the company for over 32 years. Join us for an inside peak at Peabody Landscape Group in Columbus, Ohio!

AGENDA 4:30 pm to 5:00 pm REGISTRATION

5:00 pm to 5:10 pm

WELCOME & INSTRUCTION

5:10 PM TO 6:55 PM FACILITY TOUR

6:55 pm to 8:15 pm

Q&A/NETWORKNG/FOOD SERVED

QUALIFIES 2 CEUs

Perennial Focus

Bobbie Schwartz, FAPLD Bobbie’s Green Thumb

ANEMONE X HYBRIDA

JAPANESE ANEMONE

The queen of the fall shade garden is Anemone x hybrida (Hybrid Anemone, zone 3) and its related species, A.vitifolia ‘Robustissima’ (Grapeleaf Anemone) and A.hupehensis var. japonica (Japanese Anemone). There is a great deal of confusion about which ones are which, but for our purposes, it is irrelevant since they now seem to all be consolidated into Anemone x hybrida. Their habits are very similar, and they feature large, divided or lobed foliage. All grow two and a half to three and a half feet tall, which makes them an excellent background for whatever is planted in front of them. Blooms appear in late August to early September as singles or doubles, and in shades of white and pink — according to the specific cultivar. A.hupehensis ‘September Charm (September Charm Anemone) is a single that displays rosy-pink blossoms — darker on the outside and silvery-pink on the inside, giving the impression of a bicolor. My experience is this cultivar grows under almost any

circumstances, including a great deal of shade. A.hupehensis ‘Prince Henry’ and Anemone x hybrida ‘Pamina’ are virtually indistinguishable. Both are deep pink doubles that grow two and a half feet high. If you want pale pink, try the double Anemone x hybrida ‘Party Dress’ or the single Anemone x hybrida ‘Queen Charlotte.’ Both will grow three feet tall. White cultivars to try are the single ‘Honorine Jobert’ (two to three feet) and the double ‘Whirlwind’ (three to four feet). continued on page 10

8 x Official Publication of The Ohio Landscape Association

www.willowaynurseries.com Corporate Offices / Main Nursery 4534 Center Road Avon, Ohio 44011-0299 Email: sales@willowaynurseries.com Toll Free: 866-934-4435 / Fax: 440-934-5826

Avon

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4825 Center Rd. / Avon, Oh. 44011-0299 Toll Free: 866-934-4435 ext. 2251 / Local: 440-934-3813 Fax: 440-934-4621 E-mail: bowens@willowaynurseries.com Bill Owens, Manager

Columbus

6981 Scioto Darby Creek Road / Hilliard, Oh. 43026 Toll Free: 888-593-5999 / Local: 614-777-9859 Fax: 614-777-1276 E-mail: Jack@willowaynurseries.com Jack Johnston, Manager

The Growing Concern x October 2014 x 9

Perennial Focus continued from pg 8 The cultivars in the Pretty Lady Series only grow twelve to sixteen inches tall and tend not to be as rambunctious as its taller cousins. ‘Emily’ has double light pink flowers; ‘Julia’ has double vivid pink flowers; and ‘Diana’ has single lavender pink flowers. These anemones are very adaptable. I’ve grown them in full sun, part sun, part shade and a lot of shade. As long as they get at least three hours of direct sun or filtered light all day, they will thrive. They are not picky about soil either. They do need some moisture on a regular basis; otherwise, the leaves shrivel. Do not plant them in water-logged soils. Give Japanese anemones plenty of space; they are vigorous but easy to dig if they spread further than you would like. In my front sun garden, I’ve used ‘September Charm’ with Asclepias incarnata ‘Cinderella’ which blooms a month before. In my back sun garden, ‘September Charm’ serves as a background

These anemones are very adaptable. for Aster oblongifolius ‘October Skies’ and Rudbeckia ‘Pot of Gold’. In the part shade garden, it is neighbor to Tricyrtis hirta and ferns. Happily, this long blooming, fall perennial is also deer resistant so I’m sure you can find a place in your landscape for it.

Bobbie Schwartz, FAPLD, owner of Bobbie’s Green Thumb in Shaker Hts., Ohio, is a landscape designer, consultant, free-lance writer, and lecturer whose specialties are perennial gardens and four-season landscapes. In addition to being an Ohio Landscape Association (OLA) member, she is an active member of the Ohio Nursery and Landscape Association (ONLA) and Perennial Plant Association (PPA). Bobbie is a Past President of the Association of Professional Landscape Designers (APLD). Bobbie currently serves as chair of the ONLA Plant Selection Committee. Bobbie can be reached at (216) 752-9449.

10 x Official Publication of The Ohio Landscape Association

Ohio's most prestigious landscape enhancement awards program Winning projects will be featured in the Spring/Summer 2015 Landscape Ohio! Magazine â&#x20AC;&#x201D; a supplement to Ohio Magazine and Cleveland Magazine. Entrants will be invited to join us in March 2015 for dinner and awards presentation

9240 Broadview Road Broadview Heights, OH 44147 Phone: 440-717-0002 Toll Free: 1-800-335-6521 Fax: 440-717-0004 OhioLandscapers.org MyOhioLandscape.com

DEADLINE TO ENTER DECEMBER 5, 2014 Rules, Regulations, and Entry Forms Available Now

OLA ANNUAL MEETING ANNOUNCEMENT Northeast Ohio

2014/2015 NE OHIO

Meeting Sponsors Emerald Level

November 13, 2014 OLA Annual Meeting HELD AT

St. Michael’s Woodside Broadview Heights

FEATURING

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Editor and Associate Publisher Lawn and Landscape Magazine

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A wise man once said that no landscaper is an island. Or something like that. In this presentation, Lawn & Landscape Editor and Associate Publisher Chuck Bowen will share his latest research and insight about what’s happening in the landscape industry nationwide. He’ll give you an idea of where the industry is at present, and where it’s headed in the next few years. This is your chance to learn about not only how you fit into the broader landscape industry, but how most of your colleagues and competition are doing as well. He’ll have ample time for Q&A, so come prepared to ask your most burning questions.

You’ll learn: • Macro-level green industry trends that will make an impact on your business • Why design/build is coming back big, and how you can take advantage of it • Employee salary ranges, and other key benchmarking data from L&L research • What commercial property managers and homeowners think about landscapers, and why they hire and fire their service providers • Ideas on marketing, communication and recruiting from some of the best landscapers in the country • How landscapers are adopting social media and mobile technology, and how you can best use it

AGENDA 6:00 pm to 7:00 pm

REGISTRATION/NETWORKING FOOD/CASH BAR

7:00 pm to 7:45 pm OLA ANNUAL MEETING

7:45 pm to 9:00 pm

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Plant Of the Month

Jim Funai, COLP Cuyahoga Community College

Shelley Funai Stan Hywet Hall and Gardens

RHODODENDRON VISCOSUM

SWAMP AZALEA

We must have some lingering issues from last month’s plant and can’t seem to let the Rhodo go. We explored the meaning of rhododendron last month — derived from Greek roots to mean “Rose Tree.” While last month’s plant was Rhodotypos of the Rosaceae family, this time, the reference to roses is visual and not a true familial relation. Rhododendron is the genus name given to both “rhododendrons” and “azaleas” though in most nursery catalogs you will find them separated alphabetically by Azalea and Rhododendron. Come to think of it, why are the taxonomists and botanists changing obscure names and ignoring rhododendrons? Separating azaleas from rhododendrons into two different genus names would make sense — we can visually tell a difference between them. However, that will be a topic for another day. We digress. Keeping in our theme of great plants for the rain garden we offer this month’s candidate, the Swamp Azalea. This Northeast Ohio native is a great plant for any garden given the right conditions, and a welcome addition to the rain garden. Rhododendrons are part of the Ericaceae family. Its cousins include Redvein

Enkianthus, Leucothoe, Japanese Pieris, Sour Wood (Oxydendron), Blueberries, Heaths, Heathers and many other lesser known plants. If you were forced to assign a characteristic to the Ericaceae family, the safe bet would be to say well drained acidic soils. This holds true for the Swamp Azalea. Perhaps the name swamp is a bit misleading. This plant won’t be found growing in the middle of a swamp, as it will not tolerate permanently wet soil. However, unlike most rhododendron, Swamp Azalea will be just fine with periodic flooding and higher-than-normal soil moisture levels. Swamp Azalea has a growing a range of five feet tall and wide, and possibly up to eight feet. This multi-stemmed shrub will, over time, form a small colony of upright stems. The best effect continued on page 16

14 x Official Publication of The Ohio Landscape Association

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Plant Of the Month continued from pg 14 will be noticed in massing as it tends to be a bit open and airy, and could be lost if treated as a specimen. While we think of rhododendrons as broadleaf evergreens, this particular plant is one of several deciduous members. As a bonus of being deciduous, the fall colors on this shrub can be quite nice adding a depth of reds and purples to the garden.

The joy of plants is exploring how each unique species has just the right niche to fill.

One of our favorite features of the Swamp Azalea is the burst of white flowers that appear in later June and into July. Once we have passed the big show of May/June it is nice to have encore acts following and extending the flower show. Clear white flowers are born in clusters with long tubes (corolla) splitting open to a five-pointed star shape. Long stamens grow out much like a bottlebrush buckeye. The flowers are fragrant with a spicy clove-like scent leading you to think there must be a group of unshowered hippies bathed in essential oils nearby. Use some care in placing this plant in the garden. Though Rhododendron viscosum is tolerant of periodic flooding, it will not be as forgiving in heavy drought conditions. If you are planning a rain garden in a full sun location, in an industrial setting or near hot parking lots, this plant may not be the best option. However, the Swamp Azalea will enjoy a rain garden that may see more shade with an overhead canopy of large shade trees. Our rain garden at home is located to the north of some very large white pines (Pinus strobis) with extremely sandy soils. This site is ideal because even though there are periods where the soil has drained quite a bit, it isn’t what one would refer to as “bone dry” thanks to the overhead shading from direct sun. Soils in the rain garden can be very deceiving. The engineers and architects who are designing these gardens are blindly following engineer guidelines for infiltration of water characteristics. Most gardens are over engineered to allow near instant percolation of storm water (indicating too much drainage) instead of the perfectly acceptable 24 hour ponding. Current standards dictate a mix of 60-70% sand, 10-20% topsoil, and 20-30% organic leaf compost. With that much sand, it is tough to find the right plants to thrive. Work with the designer of any rain garden to determine how that can be amended and still work within their planned capacities. As we have mentioned, Jim is working on and researching how to

16 x Official Publication of The Ohio Landscape Association

create soil blends that will meet engineer guidelines for stormwater management, but provide a better environment for a wider range of plant materials.

Like all planting situations, pay close attention to the micro climate that each plant will be in. How will that climate change over time as plants mature? Swamp Azalea is found near streams, ponds and other temporary wet areas in the forest. Use of this plant should come as close to mimicking that condition as possible. Rain garden plant selection will depend on the location of the garden in the overall landscape. Previously mentioned, the garden placed near a wide open parking lot is not the right place. Swamp Azalea does not like to experience the baking sun, heavy salt loads and winter winds associated with that site.

When you encounter an urban/suburban setting (good winter wind shelter) in a residential neighborhood, with mature tree cover around, you have likely found a good garden for this plant. For a more compact form try ‘Summer Eyelet’ which will hold a more formal look than the straight species. ‘Pink Mist’ is just like the species with an added ornamental appeal of tinges of pink in the flowers as they open. The joy of plants is exploring how each unique species has just the right niche to fill. Some plants can go anywhere, some have very specific needs. Don’t be afraid to use the plants with specific needs if you have a planting site that provides for those needs. This can set your work far apart from those who choose to use the same standard plants on every job they encounter. How many more burning bush do we really need out there?

Jim Funai is full-time faculty at Cuyahoga Community College, a PLANET accredited, associate of applied science in horticulture degree program, offering many paths to higher education to the green industry. He has an MS from Colorado State and is a licensed arborist. Shelley Funai is the Grounds Manager at Stan Hywet Hall and Gardens in Akron, Ohio that offers a historic estate designed by Warren H. Manning and a beautiful manor house museum. Both are graduates of The Ohio State University. Contact Jim and Shelly via email at hortsquad@gmail.com

Power through

winter. 7800 Broadview Rd. Parma, OH 44134 440-340-3000

DON’T FORGET The Time is Now to Take Photos of Your Jobs! Rules and Entry Forms Available Now! visit www.ohiolandscapers.org or call the OLA at 1-800-335-6521 Entries are due Friday, December 5th by 5 pm at the OLA office.

TIPS TO ENTER Fight the Urge to Procrastinate • Keep designs current and show the job as it was actually installed. • Take pictures throughout the different seasons-especially if entering for seasonal color! • Always carry a camera with you. It is easier than finding time to get back at a later date and missing that perfect photo opportunity. • Take plenty of shots so that you can submit the very best. • Take pictures early enough so that you have time to shoot again if needed. • Take before and after shots from the same location. Let the Picture Tell the Story • Remember, a picture is worth a thousand words. • If you framed a great view, created an outdoor room or have a great focal point, allow the picture to show it. • Use approprite lighting - Judges can’t make out details of dark or bleached out pictures. Morning, late afternoon, or cloudy days are often better for your photo shoot. Allow the Jobs to Mature • Sometimes a season or two of growth on plants or aging of fresh cut stone can make an average job a great one. (Make sure that the project is maintained.) • Projects that are up to 5 years old qualify to enter. Help the Project Look "Lived In" • You created an outdoor room. If the grill is in the garage, move it out to the patio. If the table umbrella is closed, open it. • Also, an empty bench or table looks better with a pitcher of iced tea and a pair of drinking glasses on it. Tidy Up Before You Shoot • Remove any debris or clutter such as litter, leaves, garbage cans, children’s toys or hoses. • Shoot High - Shoot Low • Sometimes the angle of a shot can make a nice picture even better. • Be creative - take aerial shots from a ladder or rooftop, but remember to put safety first! • Shoot low to the ground or from inside a planting bed with the tops of a tree, shrub, or some flowers framing the picture.

Sell the Project • Explain how you solved a unique problem, met some unusual challenge, or worked out a difficult client request. • Be sure to note if you feel one part of the garden is of questionable taste, but was a client’s desire or own addition. • If you enter a project in more than one category, always write a new description that relates to the category and describes details relevant to that category. Make the Judges' Job Easy • Your photos and descriptions should represent the work you did on the property. Work done by others should not be the focal point of your entry photos and descriptions. • Be very concise and to the point in the descriptions of your project. Do not exceed the word limits, but do tell your story. However, be sure to explain your project thoroughly. Saying only “view from the east, view from the west, etc.” does not help the judges understand your project. • Make sure that designs are readable and that the photos are in their proper sequence. Think BIG • Even the smallest of jobs can be an award winner! • Occasionally, it may be advantageous to enter a particular section of a larger project. • Be confident! If you have never entered in the past, don’t be intimidated. Never, Never, Never Quit • If at first you don’t succeed, try again. • Network with association members and others who have entered projects in the past.

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The Growing Concern x October 2014 x 19

Fiscal Fitness

Michael J. Donnellan King Financial, Inc.

Gold And Metals As A Hedge Gold was a long forgotten asset in 2001, trading at about a third of its price in 1980. But gold became a hot commodity by April 2011, when its price surged from $271 to $1,923 an ounce in roughly 10 years. Those who bought gold out of a presumption of the demise of the dollar and other paper currencies were trying to chase performance. This tendency is expressed in buy high/sell low behavior, as gold is currently trading at about $1,254 as of June 9, 2014. Bought for the right reason, however, gold can be a good diversifier. To be considered a good alternative investment, gold would have to have a low correlation to U.S. stocks and a positive expected return. Gold does have a low correlation to traditional assets, such as stocks. Therefore, it can help hedge a portfolio. Gold also has a strong positive correlation with oil, meaning that it could be a good store of purchasing power in times of severe declines or turmoil in the stock market.

It appears that a small amount of gold in a portfolio can act as a good alternative asset to diversify risk. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s also clear that gold is a better deal today than in April 2011, but that doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t mean we know what the price will be three years from now. We at least know that adding gold to a portfolio today isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t performance chasing. Today, like most commodities, the price of gold is driven by supply and demand including demand for speculation. However unlike most other commodities, saving and disposal plays a larger role in affecting its price than its consumption. Most of the gold ever mined still exists in accessible form, such as bullion and mass-produced jewelry, and is potentially able to come back onto the gold market for the right price. continued on page 22

20 x Official Publication of The Ohio Landscape Association

WE INVENTED THE INDUSTRY IN 1926.

WELL, LA-DI-FRICKIN’-DA. Why should you care that Meyer® created the world’s first automobile snow plow? Because the spirit upon which our company was founded— hard work and innovation—lives on today. And it leads to features that make your job easier, like hands-free plowing, rugged design, and America’s best warranty. Find those features and more in today’s totally redesigned, totally reinvented Meyer®.

NEED PROOF? VISIT SWITCHTOMEYER.COM/OLA

Fiscal Fitness continued from pg 20 The performance of gold bullion is often compared to stocks due to their fundamental differences. Gold is regarded by some as a store of value (without growth) whereas stocks are regarded as a return on value (i.e., growth from anticipated real price increase plus dividends). Stocks and bonds perform best in a stable political climate with strong property rights and little turmoil.

Other investors may choose to own actual gold bullion or coins. Futures and options contracts are available to those looking to trade or hedge a position usually in a shorter time frame or to trade frequently. Exchange Traded Funds (ETFs) can also be used for those investors who want direct exposure to certain metals without having to hold and secure the metals.

Additionally, other metals could offer a hedge to traditional assets classes. Silver, copper, platinum, palladium, etc. have industrial uses, so investors can have fluctuations as economies improve or as world events take center stage.

Precious metals provide a useful and effective means of diversifying a portfolio. The trick to achieving success with them is to know your goals and risk profile before jumping in. The volatility of the precious metals can be harnessed to accumulate wealth, but left unchecked, it can also lead to ruin.

Besides the risks inherent in any equities, and those of gold price fluctuations, mining stocks may be subject to geopolitical threats. The companies might be based in and/or operating in nations where expropriations or other unwelcome events can occur. A mining company may be domiciled in countries such as the U.S., Canada or Australia; yet the mines themselves might be in places that are vulnerable to political upheaval.

Investors should constantly review their portfolios and remain diversified to reduce risk. Conduct periodic, regular reviews with your financial advisor and discuss risk and allocation.

Michael J. Donnellan is President of King Financial, Inc., in Strongsville, Ohio specializing in stock selection and retirement planning. Feel free to contact him

Investors may find mutual funds that invest in the mining companies a good way to compromise with exposure to the price of the metals and the chance the stocks of those companies will rise also.

with any questions or comments. Phone number (440) 878-9676.

â&#x20AC;Śgold can be a good diversifier.

22 x Official Publication of The Ohio Landscape Association

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Fire Pits

From square to circular, wood-burning to gas, bowl to a table, fire pits are a great way to add warmth, magic, and value to your client’s home. We offer the greatest selection of both Unilock and Eldorado Outdoor brand fire pit products.

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Outdoor Fireplaces

As the centerpiece of any outdoor living space, outdoor fireplaces are a true extension of your client’s home. With our large selection of quality products from Isokern, Napoleon, Unilock, and Eldorado Outdoor, your project can be crafted to match the personality and style of any client.

Plants for Outdoor Living CATALOGS

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Package of 20 ....... $26

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Package of 20 ....... $23

QTY.

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Perennials

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SHIPPING 1st Package

$11

Each Additional Package

$2 each

$ _____

11.00

$__________

TOTAL $__________ SHIP TO: Company

Attn:

Address (No PO Boxes) City

State

Phone

Fax

Zipcode

PAYMENT INFORMATION:

 Check No.

Enclosed

Charge to my

 MasterCard

 Visa

Credit Card No.

Exp. Date

Name on Card

Signature

Billing Address + Zipcode

CVV2 Code

Make checks payable and send to: Ohio Landscape Association • 9240 Broadview Road • Broadview Heights, OH 44147 Purchase online, by mail, by phone, or by fax: Phone 440-717-0002 or 1-800-335-6521 • Fax 440-717-0004 • www.ohiolandscapers.org

MY CENTS IS BUILT STRONG! CENTS is the green industry trade show I can’t afford to miss. Why? It means networking opportunities with other industry pros, seeing all the new and exciting trends for the upcoming year, and of course getting an amazing education! I can dive in to all the hot topics in horticulture at CENTS University. Emily Showalter Willoway Nurseries

JOIN US IN COLUMBUS, OHIO

WED •THURS • FRI

F o r Sa f e t y Sa k e

Machine Guards By Dr. Isabel Perry “The Safety Doctor” Safety Slogan Myths The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) requires that a company protect machine operators and anyone who might be in the vicinity of hazards associated with the operation of those machines. Potential hazards exist at points of operation, in-going nip points, and wherever there are rotating parts, flying chips or sparks. Training is a necessary part of any good Health and Safety Plan. Teaching people to follow safety procedures and to look for potential problems will create a safe working environment for everyone. Training should include: • Description and identification of specific hazards related to machines • Description of safeguards and how they function • How to use the safeguards • When it is appropriate to remove safeguards, and how to remove them safely • What to do when a safeguard is missing

26 x Official Publication of The Ohio Landscape Association

Machine safeguards should be installed and maintained to prevent contact, and be secure enough that they cannot be easily removed or tampered with. Safeguards should not only protect machine operators, but keep objects from falling into moving parts. Take care that the safeguard does not impede the worker from doing his job, or create a new hazard. It should be possible to lubricate or maintain the machine without removing the safeguard.

Types of Safeguards • Signs and other aids that warn of a possible danger area • Barriers which prevent direct contact with the machine • Feeding and ejection processes that eliminate the handling of machine parts in the hazard zone. • Mechanical and electronic devices which either restrain or restrict contact. Examples of these are two-hand controls, gates, tripping devices, and sensors continued on page 28

PUT A

LOCK

ON THAT NEXT JOB. Give yourself an edge the next time you quote a landscaping project. Give yourself the Unilock® advantage. As the leader in the industry, Unilock’s distinctive products will grab your client’s attention and never let go, with leading edge designs that will help you blow the competition away.

UmBriANO®

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Recommend Umbriano® as part of your next project bid to stand apart from the competition and lock up the job. For sizes, colors and other details or to connect with a Unilock Territory Manager, please visit Unilock.com

UmBriANO® (SUmmEr WHEAT) WiTH BElPASSO® (CASTANO) ANd SEriES 3000® (BlACk GrANiTE) ACCENTS.

F o r Sa f e t y Sa k e continued from pg 26 Types of Potentially Hazardous Operations

• Bending tube benders, press brakes, or plate rolls • Punching notchers and punch presses • Shearing hydraulic, pneumatic or mechanical shears • Cutters bandsaws, drills and lathes and milling machines

Types of Potentially Hazardous Moving Points • Rotating couplings, spindles, shaft ends, in-running nip points • Reciprocating up and down or back and forth • Transverse any movement that is in a straight continuous line

Workplace accidents result in lost productivity…

Workplace accidents result in lost productivity, loss of employee morale, and sometimes in lawsuits. Avoid accidents by installing and maintaining appropriate safeguards, and by creating and enforcing safety procedures. Dr. Isabel Perry prescribes solutions to reduce risk, costs and increase production for all types of organizations. Dr. Perry is an Orlando, Florida based Safety Professional with over 20 years of broad-based safety experience including: safety speaker, safety consultant, expert witness, and former safety executive at a Fortune 50 company. Her clients include many multinational firms. Dr. Perry’s can be contacted at: Isabel@ TheSafetyDoctor.com, phone: 407-291-1209

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28 x Official Publication of The Ohio Landscape Association

Bulk & Bag Products (Wholesale Customers)

OLA EDUCATION SERIES

DORMANT

CLINIC

PRUNING

Presented by

December 1, 2014

December 2, 2014

8:30 am to 12:00 pm

Held at Willoway Nurseries

NORTHEAST OHIO

CENTRAL OHIO

Avon, OH

Sponsored & Hosted by

Hilliard, OH

Instructed by Elliott H. Schaffer, ISA Certified Arborist/Horticulturist Environmental Horticultural Services

Qualifies for 3.5 CEUs for Landscape Industry Certified

The most important landscape maintenance practice is the control of plant size by the correct method of pruning to retain the natural branching characteristics of the plants and integrity of the landscape design. Dormant Pruning of Landscape Plants is a half-day, hands-on clinic and a timely training opportunity for you and your crews to get back to the basics and learn the proper way to prune in time for winter and early spring pruning. GENERAL INFORMATION: This seminar will include a lecture as well as hands-on training. Attendees will need to bring their own notepad and pen, hand pruning shears, a small pruning saw, and long handle lopping shears, and will need to dress appropriately for outdoor practical training. Register early as class size is limited and will sell out quickly.

Cancellations made 8 to 14 days prior to the course start date will be subject to a 30% cancellation fee. NO refunds will be issued for cancellations 7 days or less prior to the course, no shows, or cancellations on the day of the course. If, for any reason, the course is cancelled, enrollees will be notified, and fees refunded in full. December 1st Clinic - Northeast Ohio

December 2nd Clinic - Central Ohio

OLA Members $69

NON Members $99

OLA Members $99

NON Members $129

Firm

Contact

Address City

State

Phone (______)

Fax (______)

Zip

NAME OF ATTENDEE

CLASS CHOICE

 Check No. ___________ Enclosed

FEE

 December 1st - Avon

 December 2nd - Hilliard

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 December 2nd - Hilliard

 December 1st - Avon

 December 2nd - Hilliard

 December 1st - Avon

 December 2nd - Hilliard

Charge to my  MasterCard

 Visa

TOTAL DUE $

Acct. No.

Exp. Date

Name on Card

Signature

Billing Address + Zipcode for Card

Last Three Digits on Signature Line

DORMANT PRUNING CLINIC

Make checks payable and send to: Ohio Landscape Association, 9240 Broadview Rd, Broadview Hts., OH 44147 Register online, by mail, by phone or by fax: Phone 440-717-0002 or 1-800-335-6521 • Fax 440-717-0004 • www.ohiolandscapers.org

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The Growing Concern x October 2014 x 31

The Challenge Of

Diversity

In Organizations

By George Dynnik For the last couple of decades, the demographic composition of employees that are entering the workforce has been rapidly changing and becoming more diverse (George & Jones, 2012). This diversity is the result of differences in gender, race, ethnicity, religion, age, socioeconomic background, and the capabilities of the individual (disabilities). People who share similarities are more likely to have the same outlook and attitudes about work and would tend to respond to work situations in similar ways. However, if the members of a group differ in ways such as age, ethnicity, or religion, then their attitudes, behaviors, and responses to work situations are likely to be different. The percentage of Hispanic, African-American, Asian, female, and older people has steadily increased since the start of the Millennium. Thus, the labor force has become older and more diverse (George & Jones, 2012). Many of the expanding minority groups are still underrepresented and are paid less than equally

capable white male employees who are still the largest group within the labor force. Because of increased globalization, the United States population is increasing in its diversity as large numbers of people who are born in other nations immigrate to the U.S., both legally and illegally, to live and work. continued on page 34

32 x Official Publication of The Ohio Landscape Association

continued from pg 32 Since the U.S. workforce is being diversified, there are three challenges emerging that organizations have to deal with (George & Jones, 2012). The first is a fairness and justice challenge. Managers in organizations are challenged to distribute jobs, promotions, and rewards in an equitable and fair manner. As the diversity of the workforce increases, securing fairness can be challenging, because many firms have traditionally only given white male employees higher level positions. However, today all employees should be judged by the same unbiased and equitable criteria if organizations are to avoid employment lawsuits which can cost companies millions of dollars. Diversity should also be promoted in order to increase employee well-being and organizational performance. A second important challenge that is provided by a diverse workforce is how to take advantage of the differences in perspectives and attitudes of people of various races, genders, and ages, in order to facilitate decision making and to increase organizational performance (George & Jones, 2012). A lot of organizations have found that tapping into diversity and taking advantage of the potential of diverse workers, translates into new and improved organizational behaviors and procedures.

â&#x20AC;Śall employees should be judged by the same unbiased and equitable criteria â&#x20AC;Ś up, which would give employees input into the scheduling and length of their work week. Job sharing, so that several employees could share the same job, could also be set up. This would assist workers in taking care of their children or retired parents, and other important matters. The design of company buildings and jobs could be made more sensitive to the needs of handicapped employees. Management programs could also be created to provide constructive feedback to employees regarding their personal styles in dealing with minority employees, as well as setting up informal networks around minority employees to provide them with social support and by establishing mentoring arrangements to support them.

Sources: George, J., & Jones, G. (2012). Understanding and Managing

The third diversity challenge is to be sensitive to the requirements of different types of employees and to attempt to develop flexible employment approaches which increase employee well-being (George & Jones, 2012). These new approaches can take the following forms. New benefit plans could be customized to the needs of different groups of employees. Flexible employment arrangements such as working from home or flextime could be set

34 x Official Publication of The Ohio Landscape Association

Organizational Behavior. Upper Saddle River, NJ: Pearson Prentice Hall. This article has been republished from Articlebase.com â&#x20AC;&#x201D; a free article directory where you can submit and find articles. You can publish your articles for free or find content for your website, ezine, or newsletter. This article was provided by George Dynnik for use on Articlebase.com Direct link to article: http://www.articlesbase.com/ethics-articles/ the-challenge-of-diversity-in-organizations-7074383.html

CL A SSIFIED s For an up-to-date listing of all classified/help wanted ads, please visit ohiolandscapers.org OPENINGS – ACCOUNT MANAGER + DESIGN/ARCHITECT/ SALES + SALES + FOREMAN Moscarino Outdoor Creations is an award winning design company, a leader in commercial lawn maintenance/snow management and has exceptional opportunities to join our team of professionals as we expand our service line. LANDSCAPE ACCOUNT MANAGER Responsibilities include managing a portfolio of landscape maintenance contracts, providing excellent customer service and personnel management, recommend enhancements, prepare proposals, develop and train employees and deliver quality services to ensure maintenance contract renewals. Applicants with background in landscape management or horticulture and the snow industry are preferred. This position also requires excellent organizational, leadership, communication, and time management skills. LANDSCAPE DESIGNER/ARCHITECT/SALES Seeking an industry professional with minimum 5 years landscape design/build and aggressive sales experience. Must have superb horticultural and construction knowledge as well as strong computer skills, including CAD (we currently use Dynascapes software). If you are up-to-date, energetic, computer savvy and love working with plants and hardscapes this is the dream job for you!! LANDSCAPE BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT SALES Essential functions of this position include: • Generate sales by obtaining leads from industry and community resources including calling on prospective clients, gathering and analyzing the client’s needs and then providing up to date information on product services and pricing. • Deliver and follow up on bid packages to ensure that clients have enough information to make an informed decision. Requirements of this position include: • Relevant business to business commercial contract sales experience in the service industry. • Excellent oral and written communication skills. • Organized and able to manage time. • Proficient with computer software programs including MS Office suite. • Industry or local knowledge and contacts preferred. Compensation packages will be tailored for experienced individuals. Valid Driver’s License Required. EOE/Drug and Smoke Free Workplace. Please email resume to: info@moscarino.net or apply online at www.createmylandscape.com/job-opportunities/ PLEASE SEE WEBSITE FOR FULL LIST OF JOB POSITIONS AND JOB DESCRIPTIONS

OPENINGS – CONSTRUCTION DIVISION MANAGER + LANDSCAPE MAINTENENCE FOREMAN + LANDSCAPE DESIGN/BUILD FOREMAN + LAWN FERTILIZATION TECH + LAWN CARE DIVISION MANAGER Bella’s Lawn & Landscape is a locally owned and operated landscape firm seeking qualified individuals to join our team of professionals located in Toledo, OH. This is an outstanding opportunity for the right individual with a growing company. Our work environment is safe, professional, and rewarding. As we continue to grow, we are currently looking for our next great employee to join our successful team! CONSTRUCTION DIVISION MANAGER Looking for an individual experienced in hardscape/softscape installations with management skills to motivate crew members and complete projects. Extensive knowledge of constructing paver patios, outdoor kitchens, retaining walls, landscape lighting, and plantings is a must. This individual will sell, manage, & ensure quality on all jobs. Division managers are responsible for maintaining their division’s profit margin. LANDSCAPE MAINTENANCE FOREMAN & DESIGN BUILD FOREMAN The foreman takes full responsibility for the crew and all aspects of it, including vehicles, trailers, equipment, tools, and supplies. In addition, the foreman takes responsibility for ensuring results for quality, customer satisfaction, and efficiency. LAWN FERTILIZATION TECH AND/OR MANAGER As a lawn care professional, you will be responsible to service customer’s lawns as you apply fertilizer, weed treatments, grub applications, seeding, aeration, & more while ensuring fantastic customer service and delivering A+ results! You may also be responsible for accurately measuring lawns, providing quotes and / or lawn analysis, and making field sales. The ideal person will have excellent communication skills, be self-reliant and responsible, a problem solver, 1-3 years turf experience is preferred, but if willing to learn and motivated, we will take that into consideration. We are a Growing Company with Big Opportunities. Do you want to be a part of our success? We have experienced growth over the last 10 years and are looking for managers in training, foreman, and technicians to support our growth. If you would like to be a part of our fantastic team please apply now! Compensation will be determined upon evaluation of an individual’s experience. A valid driver’s license is required for all positions. Please email resume to: careers@bellaslawnandlandscape.com PROJECT MANAGER + HARDSCAPE/LANDSCAPE FOREMEN + TECHNICIANS Award winning Exscape Designs is a growing company looking for qualified individuals to join our team in Chardon, Ohio. Successful candidates will have a strong commitment to quality and a desire to advance their careers in a fast paced and high performance work environment with opportunities for growth. For more information and to apply, please visit our website at www.exscapedesigns.com or call us directly at (440) 729-0011. The Growing Concern x October 2014 x 35

Directions

Why Haven’t You Entered?

Sandy Munley Executive Director Ohio Landscape Association

We have so many members who do great work – and I’ll bet you are one of them! So, why haven’t you entered our Landscape Ohio! Awards Program? After talking with members, I’ve determined there is a misconception about Landscape Ohio! It appears contractors think the program is designed to highlight only the biggest and grandest landscape installations. Not so! Our program was created to reward the best work in a number of categories, many of which are a perfect fit for a small, but exceptional job. There is a category for nearly every type and size of landscape. I often hear statements like, “Well, we have never entered because we do mostly maintenance work.” Did you know that Landscape Ohio! has two maintenance categories? One is for residential landscapes and the other is for commercial work. Do you have a fussy client who must have everything perfect? Well, that might just be an award in the making — whether that client is residential or commercial! If your commercial client loves seasonal color, the enhancements you have done on their property might be a good fit to enter in the Best Use of Color category.

…if you don’t enter, you can’t win.

I have also heard, “We do great work, but they are smaller landscapes, not the big jobs on someone’s estate.” Did you know that Landscape Ohio! has a category for Residential Landscape Installation for landscapes under $25,000? Another thing to consider is entering a specific feature of the landscape. You can enter a water feature, the hardscape, or landscape lighting. You can also enter a specialty garden, such as a butterfly garden or herb garden. continued on page 38

36 x Official Publication of The Ohio Landscape Association

Advertising Index Effective and Affordable Advertising

40 Belgard Hardscapes 2 Botson Insurance Group 17, 29 Buckeye Equipment

38 Chagrin Valley Nurseries, Inc

19 Davis Tree Farm & Nursery, Inc.

13 Frannet of Northern Ohio

15 Irrigation Supply

15 Klyn Nurseries, Inc.

33 Leppo Rents

31 Mason Structural Steel, Inc.

for Green Industry Suppliers

13 Medina Sod Farm 21 Meyer Products 28 MRLM Landscape Materials

25 Ohio Nursery & Landscape Assoc.

19 RCPW/Sohar’s

13 Shearer Equipment

27 Unilock

23 Valley City Supply

9 Wolf Creek Company

6 Zoresco

VanCuren Tree Service

wn ing o r G r e c Con 1

ber 201

Septem

The

li A pub

c At i o

hio the o n of

lAnd

ScApe

ASSoc

i At i o

eeting OLA M 15, 2011

September Group The Pattie Hosted by page 7

Ice Snow &ement Clinic Manag22, 2011 page 11

Growing Concern

The

September

Clin t Prunrthineasgt Ohio Dorman – No 27, 2011

octobeR 2011

A p u b l i c At i o n o f t h e o h i o l A n d s c A p e A s s o c i At i o n

io September Central Oh 4, 2011 – October page 30

Drainage Clinic November 9, 2011 Page 17

OLA Annual Meeting November 17, 2011 Page 7

Sales Clinic

For Landscape Professionals December 13, 2011 Page 13

How To Set Goals For New Employees Page 32

Beautiful and full color throughout, The Growing Concern provides Ohio’s green industry advertisers an extremely cost-effective option to deliver their message!

Willoway WDC CONTACT THE OLA FOR MORE INFORMATION phone: 1-800-335-6521 email: info@ohiolandscapers.org web: OhioLandscapers.org

The Growing Concern x October 2014 x 37

Directions

Chagrin Valley Nurseries, Inc. We Give the Earth with Every Plant complete line of quality nursery stock

Trees Shrubs Evergreens Perennials Mulch Topsoil Organics excellent service prompt order pickup delivery available (440) 423-3363 • Fax: (440) 423-1113 sales@cvnursery.com • www.cvnursery.com

Effective and Affordable Advertising for Green Industry Suppliers

continued from pg 36 Here are some hints on how to prepare an entry: Take a lot of photos! Before, during and after! Take your photos at different times of day and in different weather conditions. When it is too sunny, there are often a lot of shadows. Shadows make it hard to see the details in your landscape. Wait a year or two after the job is installed to take the final photos. When plant material has matured and grown, your entry will look better and score higher. If you have planted grass, take your “after” photos after the grass has grown in, not when the straw is down. Do this for all entries, even if you are entering a hardscape category. The job will look more complete. Set the stage. You want your “after” photos to look like a photo in a magazine. Take the time to make your entry attractive and welcoming. If there is an umbrella table, open the umbrella. Bring your own props to literally stage the scene. If there is a dining table, set it. Add a book and some reading glasses on a side table, place colorful throw pillows on that loveseat, candles, a bottle of wine and wine glasses set out on the coffee table; all will enhance the first impression of your landscape. It all goes a long way to create a beautiful scene. Scan the area for anything unsightly. Remove litter, fallen leaves, debris, the garden hose, the garbage can and anything else that detracts from your landscape. Although this is not a photo contest, remember your photos are the only opportunity the judges will have to see your project. Keep in mind, your competition may have taken the time to tidy-up and stage their entry. A first impression is a lasting impression. Over the past couple of years, both our maintenance categories, as well as our landscape lighting category have been under-utilized, and I believe there can be a lot of opportunity in these categories.

rowing G oncern er 2011

Septemb

The

li A pub

c At i o

hio the o n of

lAnd

c ASSo cApe

i At i o

Growing Concern

The

octobeR 2011

A p u b l i c At i o n o f t h e o h i o l A n d s c A p e A s s o c i At i o n

ing OLA Meet

er 15, 2011 Septemb ie Group The Patt Hosted by page 7

Drainage Clinic

Ice Snowag&ement Clinic Man 2011

November 9, 2011 Page 17

er 22,

Septemb

page 11

Clini t Pruning o

st Ohi Dormer an – Northea 27, 2011 Ohio Septemb – Central 4, 2011 October page 30

You do have up to 5 years after completion to enter a landscape project. I urge you to think back through the landscapes you have created over the past several years and the properties you are currently maintaining. Do you have an exceptional project – large or small – that you should enter?

OLA Annual Meeting November 17, 2011 Page 7

Sales Clinic

For Landscape Professionals December 13, 2011 Page 13

How To Set Goals For New Employees Page 32

CONTACT THE OLA FOR MORE INFORMATION 1-800-335-6521 email: info@ohiolandscapers.org web: OhioLandscapers.org

phone:

38 x Official Publication of The Ohio Landscape Association

I am happy to answer your questions as you are filling out your entry. Don’t be shy. Companies entering for the first time often call several times during the entry process for clarification and direction, but we receive questions from contest veterans as well. We welcome your questions and are eager to help. Complete entry information is available on our website ohiolandscapers.org. The biggest hint that I can give you is: if you don’t enter, you can’t win.

OLA EDUCATION SERIES

BUILD A BETTER LANDSCAPE BUSINESS

Presented by

November 18-19, 2014

November 20-21, 2014

NORTHEAST OHIO

CENTRAL OHIO

8:30 am to 4:30 pm (Both Days)

NORTHEAST OHIO Held at Cuyahoga Valley Career Center

8:30 am to 4:30 pm (Both Days)

Held at Held at Cuyahoga Valley Career Center Ohio CAT Brecksville, OH Columbus, OH You won’t be sitting back listening to what you should be doing – you’ll be busy actually doing it, using your own numbers to create a budget and a plan for greater profit. The instructors are landscape contractors who’ve built some of the top companies in the landscape industry from the ground up. The program has been described as the ultimate business management tool for a contractor. Build a plan to ensure your business is positioned to make money and a pricing system that links to your plan. And it’s all ready for work the very next day!

Let us show you how simple it is to... • Target profitable sales and spending goals • Calculate the right hourly rates and markups using your own financials • Close more deals, faster with proven estimating methods • Create clear goals and job plans for crews • Track job progress and give scoreboards to crews • Implement bonus/incentive systems based on performance

CENTRAL OHIO Sponsored & Hosted by

Get ready for the best 2 days you’ve ever spent working on your business! See how simple it is to run a more profitable landscape company. Learn more at www.ohiolandscapers.org. Qualifies for 13 CEUs for Landscape Industry Certified

GENERAL INFORMATION: You will need to bring a laptop computer and some financial information. It is recommended to have the owner attend with an estimator or bookkeeper/financial staff. Lunch, snacks, beverages and internet access are provided.

November 20-21 - Central Ohio

OLA Members $149

NON Members $199

OLA Members $199

NON Members $249

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 November 18-19 NE Ohio

 November 20-21 Columbus

 November 18-19 NE Ohio

 November 20-21 Columbus

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BUILD A BETTER LANDSCAPE BUSINESS Make checks payable and send to: Ohio Landscape Association, 9240 Broadview Rd, Broadview Hts., OH 44147 Register online, by mail, by phone or fax: Phone 1-800-335-6521 • Fax 440-717-0004 • www.ohiolandscapers.org

9240 Broadview Road Broadview Hts., OH 44147-2517

10/14

INTRODUCING

BORDEAUX FIREPLACE THE NEWEST ADDITION TO THE BELGARD ELEMENTS LINE

RUSTIC STONE DESIGN • Quick Install

• Flexible System

• Lightweight

• Wood Boxes Available

• Easy Transport

Learn more about our Belgard Elements Collection Visit us at: belgard.com/elements

Grill Island

Brick Oven