ALCA Influence JanFeb 2010

The

ALCA

A r i z o n a L a n d s ca p e C o n t r act o r s ’ A s s o c i at i o n

Influence

January/February 2010

33rd annual

Excellence in

PRSRT STD U.S. POSTAGE

PAID

PERMIT NO. 2840 SACRAMENTO, CA

Landscaping Awards Cover Photo: Enchanted Garden Landscape, Inc.

Table of Contents

January/February 2010

The

ALCA

A r i z o n a L a n d s ca p e C o n t r act o r s ’ A s s o c i at i o n

Influence

ALCA President’s Message......................................................4 CEO Message.....................................................................6 ALCA 2010 Board of Directors and CEO..................................8 New Members...................................................................10 Calendar...........................................................................10 ALCA Sponsors...................................................................10 Professional Shrub Care........................................................11 Reduce Exposure to Pesticides................................................12 ALCA Membership Application..............................................13 ACLP Workshops................................................................14 2009 ALCA Excellence Awards Xeriscape Award.........................................................16 Presidential Award.......................................................17 Best Maintenance........................................................18 Special Awards..........................................................19 Lifetime Award............................................................21 Awards Event Photos....................................................22 Ewing Customer Appreciation Day.........................................24 ALCA Member Mixers..........................................................26 Resource Guide..................................................................27

2009 Board of Directors President

Ed Macias

Publication Advertising

President Elect

Association Outsource Services, Inc., (916) 990-9999 www.aosinc.biz

Sunset Landscaping and Designs, Inc.

Design

The Groundskeeper

Will Pereira

Vice President

Lori Mattas

Asset Landscaping

Printing

Matthew Johnson

Secretary

Tony Acosta

Xeriscapes Unlimited, Inc.

Treasurer

Steve Shields

Hill & Usher Insurance & Surety

Chief Executive Officer Judy Gausman judy@azlca.com

Copeland Printing

Arizona Landscape Contractors Association 5425 E Bell Road, Suite 105 Scottsdale, Arizona 85254 Phone: 602-626-7091 Fax: 602-626-7590 www.azlca.com

water used wisely Excel™ and Microline™ Dripline

The ALCA Influence is the official publication of the Arizona Landscape Contractors Association. ALCA and The ALCA Influence assume no responsibility for the statements or opinions appearing in articles under an author’s name. The services of an attorney or accountant should be sought in legal and tax matters. For editorial information, contact the Arizona Landscape Contractors Association, 5425 E. Bell Road, Suite 105.

Scottsdale, Arizona 85254; telephone, (602) 626-7091; facsimile, (602) 626-7590; e-mail, judy@azlca.com.

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President’s message

President’s Message

H

APPY NEW YEAR!!! Is it really 2010? I am trying to figure out where 2009 went! I hope that you had a safe and joyous holiday season!

Let me start by thanking all of our members for their support of ALCA. It is the people of our association that make us successful. I have been fortunate to cross paths with many of you and the constant words of encouragement and optimism are a strong statement of the makeup and drive of our association!

I need to personally thank all of you that supported me in 2009 and I look forward to serving our membership for 2010.

A year in review from a business standpoint is probably not something we want to do. But if anything, 2009 taught us that we are resilient, that we can change, that we are always learning, and that we have the ability to forge on.

2010 will probably have some of the same challenges for us but in different sectors. The last couple of years saw our residential market hit the skids, now it’s the commercial market’s turn. Hopefully we learned enough from the last couple of years and the actions we took will better serve us to get to the next phase of recovery.

From an organization standpoint, we have built on the successes we have had and continue to plant seeds for an ever improving association. Our new Board of Trustees will have an eye and focus to our future.

Those of you that attended our monthly member mixers, ALCA Field Day, ALCP classes, special interest seminars, and our Annual Awards of Excellence saw a continued enthusiastic support from our contractors and associate membership.

Let me welcome our new board members Matthew Johnson, Tony Acosta, Jim Trog, David Spector, Dwight Faires, Jim Potts, and Jesse Montano. I also need to give special thanks to departing board members Tony Fontes, Nancy Coxe, Glenn Fahringer (new Board of Trustee), Don Schlander (new Board of Trustees), and Bob Meier (new Board of Trustee) for their years of constant support.

I would like to acknowledge all of the award winners from the 33rd Annual Awards Program at The Wigwam Resort.

Thank you to all of the individuals that continue to make our Awards Program a success every year.

I look forward to the challenges and successes that 2010 brings.

Ed Macias

Ed Macias, The Groundskeeper 2010 ALCA President

USE LESS, SAVE MORE Efficient Irrigation

Three full-day accredited workshops packed with critical information for irrigation and landscape professionals SESSION 1: Landscape Design and Principles SESSION 2: Specific Equipment SESSION 3: New Technologies February 9, 2010 Tucson Marriott University Park Tucson, Arizona

Recently, the Arizona Department of Insurance approved the National Council on Compensation Insurance Workers’ Compensation filing effective January 1, 2010. These rates will affect all new and renewal business.

Class Code 0005 Farm-Nursery Operations

0106 Tree Pruning, Spraying

0042 Landscape Gardening (construction)

5183 Plumbing (irrigation)

9102 Park NOC (maintenance)

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$21.77

$22.97

$6.73

$6.02

$5.77

$4.77

$3.39

$3.11

A variety of factors influence the rate change every year and Arizona historically has had some of the lowest rates for these classes in the United States. Of special note, the latest figure for calculating disability payments for lost wages for injured employees has increased to a maximum monthly benefit of $3,763.44.

Register today at: www.ForesterEvents.com

forestereVeNts 4

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Steve Shields, Hill & Usher Insurance and Surety

CEO’S message

CEO’s Message

H Judy Gausman

appy New Year! I am pleased to report that I have nothing but wonderful things to report in my message to you. This issue is dedicated to the 33rd annual Excellence in Landscaping Awards Program and to the celebration, recognition and affirmation of the fine work and artistry that our industry provides to our beautiful state.

Yes, nearly 350 landscape contractors, architects, designers and vendors attended the Sky Blu Underwood Golf Tournament and Awards Banquet on November 20 & 21 at the Wigwam Resort in Litchfield Park.

Preparation for the awards program is a year round effort. This year’s awards chairwoman was Nancy Coxe with Western Innovations. Nancy had another active year with ALCA as she also chaired the Field Day Event held this past March.

Nancy looked to Dwight Faires with Vista Professional Outdoor Lighting to coordinate the judging process.

On-site visits were made to the highest scoring projects so a total of 4 weeks were spent judging over 60 landscape projects submitted by members. This would not be possible without the volunteer hours of Dwight and his panel of judges: Kim Kleski with Neill Vecchia & Associates, Sam Winkle with McGough-Kahan, Kevin Salamandra with Arid Zone Trees, Kim Echeverria with Western Sere, Cindy Odgers with South Mountain Community College, Maggie Saulsby with The Toro Company and John Zulker with Mazatzal Tree Farm.

Nancy Coxe also spearheaded the Silent Auction that everyone enjoyed during the cocktail reception. Many were able to take home some great treasures that were donated by the generosity of the members. Thanks go to Nikki McKenna, Tony Acosta and Dave Kredit for their help to raise nearly $4,500. The proceeds from the silent auction along with the proceeds from the Sky Blu Underwood Golf Tournament held on Friday went to the various ALCA scholarship funds. Last year, ALCA distributed $9,550 to qualified recipients to assist in furthering their formal education in the landscape industry.

Finally, the banquet doors opened where tables were set with a beautiful arrangement of Manfreda Silver Leopard Agaves provided by Mountain States Wholesale Nursery. Thank you very much Janet Rademacher!

Choosing the ideal candidate for the Master of Ceremonies is a difficult task and Chris Malham with SiteWorks Landscape Management proved to be an excellent choice. His exceptional talent on the stage carried over from his “Cowbell” introduction from the recording studio. Chris is pictured here with his SiteWorks band members and music producer, Robin Franklin.

ALCA is truly blessed to have vendors and contractors who financial sponsor and support the awards program.

Their generosity is amazing. The sponsor names are listed with the winners in the following pages.

ALCA is most fortunate to have Ed Macias continue his Presidency into 2010. He is truly a caring and exemplary leader for me, for the board and for the members of ALCA. Another one of Ed’s redeeming qualities is his “good sport” attitude. Yes, Ed had to challenge “Edna” for the 2010 Presidency as he entertained the crowd in a “Cooking Challenge Throw Down”.

It is true, the awards program takes a team effort and a big part of that team comes from the ALCA office with the assistance of Loretta LaPlante. Many thanks and gratitude goes out to her for her hard work and dedication to the association.

I wish you all a very happy New Year!

Respectfully Submitted Judy Gausman CEO

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Member Updates ALCA Board of Directors

President Ed Macias The Groundskeeper

President Elect & Director of Public Relations Will Pereira BlueStar Resort & Golf

Vice President & Director of Government Affairs Matthew Johnson Asset Landscaping

Secretary Tony Acosta Xeriscapes Unlimited, Inc.

Treasurer Steve Shields Hill & Usher Insurance & Surety

Director of Awards Program Dwight Faires Vista Professional Outdoor Lighting

Director of Insurance and Safety Jim Trog Four Peaks Landscape Management, Inc.

Co-Director of Programs Nate Gould Hunter Industries

Co-Director of Programs Bob Franchetto Horizon Distributors

Director of the ACLP Jim Potts Caretaker Landscape and Tree Management, Inc.

Director of Board Development Dennis Canedy Sunset Landscaping & Designs, Inc.

Co-Director of Programs Jesus Montano Ewing Irrigation

2010 Board of Directors

and CEO

Director of Membership Development David Spector TLC-The Landscape Company

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CEO Judy Gausman

A Marriage Of Strengths

A MARRIAGE OF STRENGTHS

In February 2009, FX Luminaire was acquired by Hunter Industries. With similar foundations in forward-looking product innovations, reliability, and superior customer service, both companies have come together in an obvious marriage of tradition and reinvention.

Combining forces with Hunter will allow FX to bring resource-efficient landscape components, such as the LED-based Lumineux, to its customers with a distributor and sales support network that will continue to define the industry.

The future of FX Luminaire looks bright!

For more information, visit: www.hunterindustries.com/strengths www.fxl.com/strengths

ALCA BUlletin Board

2010

Calendar of Events January 20

Phoenix Member Mixer

26

ALCA Board of Directors Meeting

28

Tucson Member Mixer

February 9

ACLA Board of Trustee’s Meeting

17

Phoenix Member Mixer

17

21 PLANET’s Executive Forum

March 17

Phoenix Member Mixer

23

ALCA Board of Directors’ Meeting

25

Tucson Member Mixer

New

Sun Control Landscapes LLC

Wes Parker P.O. Box 56534 Phoenix, AZ 85079-6534 Phone: 602-246-4100 Fax: 602-296-5055 Email: suncontrol@cox.net

Members BlueStar Resort & Golf

Will Pereira 3300 N Gainey Center Dr, Ste #355 Scottsdale, AZ 85258 Phone: 480-348-6545 Fax: 480-948-3035 Email: Will.Pereira@Bluestargolf.com

Sun Country Landscape Inc.

Mark Bais 1965 West Mountain View Road, Suite A Phoenix, AZ 85021 Phone: 602-993-7382 Fax: 602-863-9926 Email: suncountrylandscape@gmail.com

Green King, LLC aka Deep Drip Tree Watering Stakes

Tandem Landscape Services, LLC

Lisamarie Evans 2487 South Gilbert Road, Suite 106-230 Gilbert, AZ 85295 Phone: 602-550-8555 Fax: 866-634-9191 Email: lmevans@deepdrip.com

James DeRoche P.O. Box 6866 Goodyear, AZ 85338 Phone: 623-236-4904 Fax: 623-236-4903 Email: jimd@tandemls.com

Lamb Rock

Texas Refinery Corporation

Mike & Deborah Ferris 16455 Santa Rita Road #5 Sahuarita, AZ 85629 Phone: 520-625-6289 Fax: 520-625-1541 Email: Deborah@lambrock.com

Mark Opheim 18809 N 92nd Way Scottsdale, AZ 85255 Phone: 480-205-3011 Email: mark.opheim@cox.net

Victor’s Landscaping, Inc.

Victor Pope P.O. Box 82055 Phoenix, AZ 85071 Phone: 602-439-5192 Fax: 602-439-2726 Email: Victor@victorslandscaping.com

Arizona Landscape Contractors’ Association visit us on the web

Toro Expands its Lineup of GrandStand™ Stand-On Mowers Now available in 36-in, 40-in and 60-in models Toro is expanding its lineup of the popular GrandStand™ stand-on mowers to include 36-in, 40-in and 60-in models, in addition to the original 48-in and 52-in machines. The expanded lineup ensures that whether landscape contractors are working on a large commercial job or a small residential property, Toro has the right size mower to fit their needs.

Toro expanded on the success of the GrandStand mower with the addition of three new deck sizes — 36-in, 40-in and 60-in. The 36-in and 40-in models offer the compact size necessary to get through gates and tight spaces, while the 60-in model allows contractors to make quicker work of larger properties.

“Toro’s goal has always been to provide the right equipment to meet the needs of contractors,” says Harris. “With the addition of three new deck sizes to the GrandStand mower lineup, we’re giving contractors more choices while still providing them with the outstanding quality of product they’ve come to expect from Toro.”

For more information about any of the Toro GrandStand stand-on mowers, contact your Toro Landscape Contractor Equipment dealer; call Toro at 1-800348-2424; e-mail LCEproducts@toro.com; or visit www.toro.com/professional.

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AZLCA.com Platinum Sponsors Desierto Verde, Inc. DLC Resources, Inc. Evergreen Turf, Inc. Ewing Irrigation Products Horizon Distribution Inc. Hunter Industries John Deere Landscapes Rain Bird

2010

A Very Special Thank You to our

Gold Sponsors HD Supply – Waterworks Hill & Usher Insurance & Surety Sunrise Tree Farm Silver Sponsors Desert Trees Nursery West Coast Turf

ALCA Sponsors

Member Updates

Professional Shrub Care

By Matthew Johnson, Asset Landscaping

M

any opinions exist when discussing professional shrub maintenance.

Some believe that proper maintenance is not being performed unless all ornamentals are frequently sheared and kept in shapes.

While this type of trimming was made popular by theme parks, it is not responsible professional landscape management, particularly in the desert southwest.

Formal trimming requires specific types of plants that grow in a manner that allows this technique. Most desert plants cannot tolerate tight shearing.

Having said that, many shrubs are planted in areas that are too small to allow proper growth, similar types of pruning are used. This should be the exception, not the rule. Professionally designed landscape is meant to coexist with the natural desert. Sometimes referred to as “Natural Trimming”, shrubs are allowed to take on more natural appearance and yet accentuate the beauty of the overall architecture and land. When properly executed, natural trimming can provide food and shelter for wildlife and retain a maintained, healthy appearance that includes colorful flowers.

Seasonal cutbacks in fall, winter and spring (depending on species and frost hardiness) allow for healthy and colorful growth the rest of the year. Cutbacks or “hard pruning” will be low to the ground with plants such as Red Bird of Paradise or Lantana which are done every year or simply half the size of the existing shrub such as a Sage or Baja Ruellia. With mature root structure, regrowth usually begins within days during the summer. Many times if a shrub has been “formally trimmed” for several years, the only repair is to “stump” the shrub so that it can be rejuvenated with new, fresh growth.

Constant trimming in a formal manner removes the natural protection from the sun that damages the plant. This creates dead or woody areas to appear which will never grow back. Shrubs require much more water to grow back the greenery and less photosynthesis occurs. Additionally, more debris is created with each shearing adding to more cleanup time; more waste in the landfills and more debris mixed with the granite even after raking and blowing have been completed.

Some benefits of natural trimming include: Healthy appearance, more plentiful blooms, less chance for disease, less water usage, longer life of the plant, and more productive use of labor while servicing the property. With more leaves and blooms to fill in the structure of the plant, there is more texture and color. The shade provided reduces the amount of water needed for the plant and also less water need for leaf replenishment.

Natural Trimming (pictured above) allows flowers to bloom, leaves to develop naturally and shade the core of the plant and branches which reduces the water needed to sustain a healthy appearance. Formal trimming (pictured below) eventually leaves open areas where the shrub has been over trimmed.

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ALCA Bulletin Board

Reduce Exposure to Pesticides

by Jennifer Weber, Arizona Department of Agriculture

A

pesticide handler is about to mix an herbicide that requires him to wear a long-sleeved shirt, long pants, shoes and socks during all handling activities. The pesticide label doesn’t mention gloves, but he wonders if he should put on a pair of gloves for added protection.

This is a great question. Pesticide handlers are required to wear the personal protective clothing and equipment listed on the pesticide

label. In this scenario that would include a long-sleeved shirt, long pants, shoes and socks.

Even though gloves are not required, taking an extra step to protect exposed skin is a good idea.

According to the National Pesticide Applicator Certification Core Manual, 97% of the documented pesticide exposure cases involve skin contact. Of the cases that occurred while mixing pesticides, 85 % involved exposure to the hands and 13% to the forearms. Something

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KBKA-HP

as simple as wearing gloves while mixing pesticides, even if not required by the label, could reduce this risk.

Skin exposure could occur Skin exposure could also during tasks such as adjusting o c c u r w h e n or repairing pesticide application equipment. loading and applying pesticides, or while adjusting, repairing or cleaning pesticide application equipment. Even coming into contact with pesticide residues on treated surfaces and personal protective equipment could lead to exposure.

The Farm Family Exposure Study (Acquavella et al. 2004) demonstrated the benefit of wearing gloves when working with pesticides.

Forty-eight farm families participated in the study, which focused on real-world pesticide handling activities and factors that contributed to pesticide exposure. The participants included 48 licensed pesticide applicators, their wives, and 79 children between the ages of four and eighteen.

During the study, participants were monitored for five consecutive days as they worked with three pesticides – the insecticide chlorpyriphos and the herbicides glyphosate and 2,4-D. Researchers collected urine samples a day before, the day of and three days following pesticide application. They also observed participants while they handled the pesticides.

Interestingly, glyphosate residues were detected in the urine in 60% of the licensed pesticide handlers on the day of the application.

Farmers who did not use gloves while working with pesticides had higher urinary concentrations than those who did wear gloves while mixing, loading, and applying pesticides, repairing equipment or cleaning up spills.

The good news is that the levels of glyphosate detected in the study participants’ urine were far below EPA’s minimum reference dose for glyphosate. However, the results of this study are significant to the landscape industry since glyphosate is the active ingredient in several popular herbicides, not all of which require handlers to wear gloves.

The decision of whether or not to wear gloves when not required on the label can be more difficult for pesticide handlers during Arizona’s warmer months. Hands sweat and wearing gloves becomes more uncomfortable.

Pesticide handlers may also feel that tasks such as changing nozzles and tightening hoses are easier to do without gloves. However, as difficult or awkward as this may seem, research does show that people who wear chemical resistant gloves while working with pesticides can greatly reduce the potential for exposure.

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ACLP Workshops

Arizona Certified Landscape Professional Program Please call the ALCA office to register at 602-626-7091 or download the registration form at www.azlca.com.

Tree Planting Workshop

Safety and Tools/Pesticides & Calibrations Workshop

Objectives: • Hands-on planting demo & supervision • Selecting plants for quality • Plant handling prior to planting • Preparing the plant pit • Setting & back filling • Proper staking • Early care maintenance

Instructors: Bob Franchetto, and Jennifer Weber

January 13, 2010

Instructor: Juan Barba A workshop for Planting Trees is planned for January 13, 2010 at Central Arizona College.

Planting trees correctly is an important skill due to the initial investment, the potential appreciation value of each tree and the risk of death or failure of whole trees when they are large. Subjects include pre-planting drainage analysis, planting hole size, soil amendments, fertilizer considerations, and very importantly, root ball preparation. All aspects of staking are discussed including need to stake, the 3 different types of staking, staking materials, length of service and location of ties. And also very importantly, the major points to consider in selecting quality trees are covered allowing the attendees to gain abilities to assist their clients with superior plant stock. Assessing the above ground and perhaps more importantly rootball quality is the focus. After a morning of PowerPoint and live tree demonstrations, the attendees are encouraged to practice the skills learned by planting trees onto the college grounds.

Trees are one of the most important plant forms in the landscape and can perform a major role in the way landscapes function; from the day planted to mature size in decades - they dominate. Choosing good nursery stock, which is more than merely a straight trunk, can be very important for insuring the health and growth of the Treescape; planting tree correctly is so very important to insure optimal tree growth and long term health. Installing attractive trees and then attaining well-rooted trees is so very important. Discussion of trends in preparing root balls of containerized plants and industry practices of larger tree planting is also covered.

This workshop is led by Juan J. Barba, a certified and consulting arborist born in Tucson who received a degree from the University of Arizona in Landscape and Environmental Horticulture but who has focused on all aspects of arboriculture since. Juan continues to keep current with industry trends and issues and has contributed to the body of knowledge in the southwest by assisting with research projects, publishing articles in Southwest Trees & Turf, and bringing cutting edge information to the state from nationwide conferences and workshops. Juan has been speaking about arboricultural topics for decades and has lead many horticultural related classes and training for interested persons, including tree planting for the ACLP program since 1990. Juan is assisted by industry greats such as Dr. Ursula Schuch and practicing professionals in dispensing information.

This tree planting workshop is intended to not only bring the best information to the attendees, but also to motivate them to develop a passion for tree care on the day of installation - and to perform all work in a positive & professional manner with pride and with the knowledge that plants in their care have been given the best start possible given all the variability in species, soils, environment and watering.

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February 10, 2010

Objectives: • Safety policies/regulations/cautions • Proper use of equipment • Understand the principles of pesticide equipment calibration • Understand the importance of proper calibration • Properly calibrate pesticide application equipment Instructor: Bob Franchetto Horizon Distributors Bob Franchetto was raised in the green industry in Antioch, CA as a 3rd generation florist. He has been in the distribution business for over eighteen years and has been employed by Horizon Distributors since 2003. He earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Ornamental Horticulture from California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo.

Instructor: Jennifer Weber Pesticide Safety Field Consultant, Agricultural Consultation and Training Program; Arizona Department of Agriculture Jennifer Weber is a pesticide safety field consultant with the Arizona Department of Agriculture’s (ADA) Agricultural Consultation and Training Program. She works directly with growers and agricultural employees to assist them with the federal Worker Protection Standard and state pesticide laws and regulations. She provides pesticide safety information in English and Spanish during site visits and training programs. She also develops educational resources to further extend pesticide safety information to the agricultural community. Prior to Working for ADA, Ms. Weber was a pesticide safety educator for the University of California’s Pesticide Safety Education Program in Davis, and a farmworker health and safety project Safety Program in Stockton, California. She participated in pesticide safety training programs, developed English- and Spanish-language materials, and worked with rural health clinics and social service agencies to provide information about pesticides to clinic staff, farmworkers, and rural families. She also participated in several projects designed to help limited-English speaking farm operators become aware of safe pesticide handling practices. Ms. Weber graduated from California Polytechnic State University in San Luis Obispo with a degree in dairy science. Following graduation, she spent two years working on a livestock health program in Ecuador as a Peace Corps volunteer. Upon completion of her Master’s Project focusing on pesticide applicator exam formats and testing strategies, Ms. Weber received her M.A. in Multicultural and Bilingual Education from California State University, Sacramento in 2007.

Workshops are held at Central Arizona College 8470 N. Overfield Road Coolidge, AZ 8am - 4pm

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ALCA Landscaping Awards

2009 XERISCAPE AWARD Enchanted Garden Landscape was honored at the Arizona Landscape Contractors’ Association’s 33rd annual “Excellence in Landscaping” Awards Program by receiving both the Xeriscape and coveted Presidential Awards.

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The Xeriscape award is given to a project that is planned and designed to create practical use of turf areas, has a selection of plants that appropriately uses mulches, soil amendments or improvements and efficient irrigation.

When properly designed and maintained, the xeriscape project saves water, time and money through reduced plant water needs and lower maintenance requirements.

Bill Flemming with Enchanted Garden Landscape accepted the award for the Esperanza project entered in the category of Commercial Installation $500,001 - $1,000,000. JR Richards with Ewing Irrigation sponsored and presented the award.

Esperanza is a commercial development which features seventeen exclusive properties featuring four and five acre lots in the shadow of Pinnacle Peak Mountain. The expectation of Esperanza is to promote a quality of life that embraces the richness and diversity of the Sonoran Desert. Such as, the developer wanted a unique design that reinforced the natural environment. The site was criss-crossed with jeep trails and a dirt driveway that led to an abandoned ranch house from the 1950’s. The new roadway required salvage and revegetation roughly a mile long and 20’ wide either side, in addition to construction of medians and a cul-de-sac. The entry experience was of primary importance to the developer. A unique rusted iron gate was designed to reinforce the dominant salvaged Ironwood trees associated with this particular setting. The design construction of the gate and landscape was controlled by the landscape consultant. The entire project encompasses only native plants and cacti. Textures, complexions, and densities provide a seamless integration with the natural undisturbed setting.

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ALCA Landscaping Awards

2009 PRESIDENTIAL AWARD The Presidential award is given to a project that demonstrates the highest level of excellence and creativity. This award is the “Best of Show� project chosen from over 60 projects that were submitted. The landscape project for this private residence was entered in the category of Single Family Residential Installation over $500,000. Joe Carranza with Sunrise Tree Farm sponsored and presented the award.

The compound that encloses and encapsulates this property reveals a hidden treasure for its residents. From the richness of stone on the house and paving to the richness of color and texture in the landscape, the residents of this property are provided an escape into this Tuscan themed environment. The gardens incorporate a theme of a Tuscan ruin where crumbling stone is incorporated into this water-inspired garden. The scale of the home and setting offers a grand response. As such, large scaled trees were required to compliment the architecture. Rich color and textures through plant compositions and layering integrate with the streams and pools, nestling them into the distant borrowed scenery of this development and the surrounding landscape. Year round color is achieved through combinations of perennial and seasonal color. Although grand in scale, the home and its garden spaces provoke a nurtured coziness for the homeowners and their guest.

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ALCA Landscaping Awards

2009 BEST MAINTENANCE PRACTICES Desierto Verde was honored at the Arizona Landscape Contractors’ Association’s 33rd annual “Excellence in Landscaping” Awards Program by receiving the “Best Maintenance Practices” Award.

This award reflects and recognizes the precise efforts of gardening, arbor care, turf care and irrigation practices.

Proper pruning and trimming of trees and shrubs are conducted in a manner to allow all species to thrive and look their natural best. Proper monitoring of irrigation systems minimizes water use but is sufficient for all species to flourish. Fertilization and weed control measures are in place to give the entire property a clean and inviting healthy appearance. Attention to every detail from potted plants to native desert plantings give this project in the desert a pristine look that everyone can appreciate and enjoy.

Susan Chase with Desierto Verde accepted the award for the private residential maintenance project. Kurt Rouse with Rain Bird Corp. sponsored and presented the award.

This beautiful estate in north Scottsdale covers more than 4 acres. The highest degree of detail is necessary for vegetable gardens, fruit trees, turf, resort level annuals, succulent baskets, water features and to perform extensive select pruning of the native desert and cacti. There are 19 GPS located transformers and 486 low voltage lights that are inspected routinely. Nearly 2000 feet of pathways, constructed but natural appearing walking trails and broom swept utility trails cross the property and allow access to areas with elevations changes of more than 100 feet. Every aspect and skill level of landscape maintenance is essential to enhance and develop the widest range horticultural demands and to maintain a harmonious relationship with the surrounding natural environment.

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ALCA Landscaping Awards

ALCA 2009 special awards Chosen by their peers, five ALCA members were honored with special awards at the 33rd annual “Excellence In Landscaping” awards program at The Wigwam Resort on November 21, 2009. These individuals were honored and recognized for their dedication and commitment to ALCA and the landscape industry.

These awards were sponsored by: Hunter Industries, Horizon Distributors, West Coast Turf, John Deere Landscapes and DLC Resources.

Budding Contractor of the Year Award Aric Budden Being a young man in his 20’s, Aric Budden certainly has many years of experience in the landscape industry.

As a teen, Aric worked for his parent’s family owned landscape company Western Innovations to earn some extra spending money during his high school years. Like most youngsters, he began working in the field. Aric loved working outside and amongst good friends and decided that he too had a passion for the industry. Aric attended ALCA’s Certified Landscape Professional program and eventually progressed into a supervisory position. In 2006, Aric decided to take his experience to the next level and create his own landscape company, Desert Bonsai Landscaping. He currently employs 30 people in his maintenance and tree trimming division.

Aric is married to Brissa and they have a beautiful 16 month daughter, Sophia. Aric has been attending ALCA Field Days since he was a toddler and his daughter is following his footsteps and carries on the tradition as she enjoyed her first Field Day this past April.

ALCA is very pleased to acknowledge Aric Budden as the 2009 Budding Contractor of the Year.

Contractor Of The Year Jim Potts Jim Potts is the Vice President of Landscape Services at Caretaker Landscape and Tree Management.

He has over 16 years of landscape supervision experience. Jim started his career with Caretaker in 2004 as an Account Manager. He was eventually promoted to Operations Manger, Director of Landscaping, and now Vice President of Landscaping. Even with all of his additional responsibilities, Jim always takes the time to see the landscaping crews off in the morning and is outside again in the afternoon helping them bring the equipment back in. He is very hands on in his position and likes to be very involved with the day to day operations to ensure that our clients are always receiving a quality product.

Currently, Jim holds many certifications, including; Certified Arborist, Certified Desert Landscape Professional, Certified Landscape Professional, Master Gardner, Horticulturist, State Certified for Pesticide Application, Certified Irrigation Auditor, and Certified Turf Grass Professional.

Not only does Jim work hard to keep himself well trained within the industry, he also takes time to educate others by holding staff training workshops. He teaches and tests other landscape personnel seeking to achieve their ACLP designation for the Arizona Landscape Contractors Association as well as being a volunteer instructor for the Arizona Botanical Gardens, the FFA Horticulture Program, and Mesa Community College.

Jim’s work within the community should also be commended. He has hosted several community clean-up projects to help communities whose landscaping has been left in complete disarray for one of several reasons.

During these clean-ups, Jim takes time to educate the volunteers on proper pruning techniques to ensure that the landscaping will be healthy as well as beautiful.

Lastly, Jim is working hard for the environment too. He takes the extra step to ensure that Caretaker is as environmentally friendly as possible.

The most significant step that Jim is taking is to become an expert on water management, which allows Caretaker not only to save our clients money, but save water at the same time.

Jim was born and raised in Arizona and currently lives in Chandler with his wife of 10 years, Nancy. Some of his favorite hobbies include spending time with his four children and three grandchildren, fishing, working in his backyard vegetable garden, and anything to do with the Horticulture industry.

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ALCA Landscaping Awards Outstanding Associate Member Of The Year Bob Franchetto

2009 Alca’s Outstanding Cutomer Service Of The Year Award Mike Whitis, Ewing Irrigation

Bob Franchetto was raised in the green industry in Antioch, CA as a 3rd generation florist. He has been in the distribution business for over eighteen years and has been employed

by Horizon Distributors since 2003.

He earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Ornamental Horticulture from California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo.

A dedicated husband to wife Kimberly and loving father to Randy and Ashley; Bob’s number one passion in life is his family and their happiness and well being.

Even though Bob’s number one passion is his family, his second has to be taking care of people’s needs or what we know as customer service.

Bob’s “never say no” attitude and relentless pursuit of total customer satisfaction along with his vast knowledge of the landscape business makes him one of the best representatives in the green industry.

In 2005, Bob Franchetto was honored at ALCA’s Excellence in Landscaping Awards Program as the recipient of the “Outstanding Customer Service of the Year” award.

Bob has served on the ALCA Board of Directors since 2007 as Community Projects Director. He was responsible for coordinating and managing fellow ALCA members to transform a backyard for the Florence Crittenton’s Transitional Home; a home for young girls who are determined to take their life from system dependence to independence.

This past summer, Bob Franchetto came to the rescue of another group in need. He coordinated fellow ALCA members to provide a child friendly playground and safe atmosphere for the children at the “Children’s First Academy”; a school for children of homeless families.

Bob is truly deserving of ALCA’s 2009 Outstanding Associate Member of the Year Award.

Born in Bad Cannstatt, Germany, Michael Whitis spent time growing up and going to school in both Germany and Georgia before moving to Phoenix in 1978, where he later married and enjoyed becoming a devoted father to daughters Emma, Jessica and Sarah, and son Michael Jr. Mike joined Ewing in 2003, and purchased a home with the love of his life, Mary Brever, where he remains a dedicated family man and loyal Ewing employee.

Mike is known throughout his customer base as a man who can help solve problems, and does so on a regular basis with a can-do, positive attitude. Mike is recognized for his willingness to always go the extra mile to provide superior customer service. The phrase “business hours” does not apply to Mike, who will answer his phone in the pre-dawn early morning hours, evenings and weekends to help a customer in need.

Following up with customers is a doctrine Mike adheres to rigorously in his daily operations, and he will not rest until his customers are satisfied. He uses his extensive knowledge of irrigation products, design and applications to ensure his customers’ continued success, and is always on the lookout for ways he can help his customers earn new business.

Mike has also achieved local notoriety for his tremendous efforts in planning and hosting the Ewing/ FX Luminaire NASCAR customer appreciation event each year.

Although he spends countless hours tending to the organization, preparation, cooking, and cleaning associated with this highly-anticipated event, he wouldn’t have it any other way.

He thoroughly enjoys the relationships and friendships he’s built throughout the valley. As one customer states, “Mike has customer service in his blood.”

Congratulations Michael for being voted ALCA’s 2009 Outstanding Customer Service of the Year.

Sky Blu Underwood Golf Tournament The Sky Blu Underwood Golf Tournament kick started the “Excellence In Landscaping” weekend. Twelve teams competed for prizes at Palm Valley Golf Club on Friday, November 20th at the Palm Valley Golf Course in Goodyear. Proceeds from the tournament benefit the Sky Blu Scholarship Fund. This scholarship fund is an excellent opportunity for students who are serious about furthering their formal education in any segment of the Green Industry. Sky Blu Underwood was born in Phoenix in 1974 and was raised around the landscape industry. He often worked for his father during the summers at AAA Landscape. His roots are deeply entwined with the agricultural industry. Unfortunately, Sky did not live long enough to fulfill his dreams. This endowment has been established to help other young people build theirs. Perhaps they can use their education to beautify the world with trees, flowers, and other green things...and carry on one of Sky’s dreams.

This year taking the first place prize was Dwight Faires, Brandon Kelly, Bob Franchetto and Ryan Krekeler. Kirby Copeland managed to win the longest putt, while Don Schlander hit the longest drive and Mark Nichols had closest to the pin.

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ALCA Landscaping Awards Lifetime Achievement Dennis Canedy Dennis Canedy received a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Vermont and went on to study landscape architecture at Syracuse University. He moved to Arizona from Vermont and started working as a designer for a small design company in Phoenix. In 1979, Dennis established his own company, Sunset Landscaping and Designs, providing residential landscape design and installation. Now, 29 years later, he is the preferred landscape designer and installer of many local building contractors for their model complexes, as well as designer of choice for custom landscaping and landscape packages provided to their home buyers.

Dennis employs 50 employees, many of whom have been with him since he started the company in 1979.

Dennis has been very active on ALCA’s Board of Directors and in January, 2005 was nominated and elected as ALCA’s Director of Government Affairs. His involvement in ALCA has unleashed a political awareness that has allowed him to visit not only state politicians but also representatives in Washington DC where he represented the industry on issues related specifically to E-Verify and immigration reform.

In 2006, ALCA’s Board of Directors decided to purchase and build out an office condo with a budget of half million dollar.

Dennis was instrumental in the purchase, planning, designing and construction of the new ALCA office condominium. He volunteered countless hours and was on-site overseeing the construction nearly everyday.

In November, 2006, Dennis was awarded ALCA’s “Outstanding Contractor of the Year” after being nominated and voted by his peers.

Dennis worked his way up the ladder and became ALCA’s 2008 President and now serves as Immediate Past-President and advisor to the Board.

Dennis has a strong commitment to giving back to the community. Last year, members of ALCA worked together on the Florence Crittenton landscape project; a program serving young women in need. Dennis volunteered his time to design a large backyard for a transitional home so that young women can work to become independent and selfsufficient.

Dennis Canedy and his wife, Kim of 29 years have two sons, Chad, 21 and Connor 17.

ALCA is delighted to honor Dennis Canedy as the recipient of the 2009 Lifetime Achievement Award.

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ALCA Landscaping Awards

Alca Landscaping Awards 2009 Nearly 350 ALCA Members participated and supported the 33rd annual Excellence in Landscaping Awards Weekend.

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ALCA Landscaping Awards

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ALCA Bulletin Board

Ewing Irrigation Customer Appreciation Day

E

wing Irrigation held a customer appreciation Tri-Tip BBQ on November 24th at its Scottsdale branch located at 8381 East Gelding Drive. Customers could take advantage of their special one-day-only discount and fabulous door prizes. Representatives from Hunter, Irritrol, FX Luminaire, Fertile Earth, Toro, Focus Lighting and Rain Bird were available to answer irrigation, hardscape, water feature and landscape lighting needs.

Ewing is a premier source for conservation solutions, and a leading authority on the latest water management products, trends and best practices. Ewing provides water management solutions, commercial and residential irrigation supplies, landscape and agronomic products, landscape lighting, erosion control, hardscape, water features and industrial plastics to professionals serving the landscaping, turf, golf and industrial industries. Ewing offers more than 190 convenient locations from coast to coast. Visit Ewing online at www.ewing1.com.

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All Season Wholesale Growers

Wholesale grower of quality annual color, shrubs and trees

Beth Gosnell 602-276-0230 phone 602-276-0660 fax 6623 South 32nd Street, #4 Phoenix, AZ 85042 beth@allseasongrowers.com

Our Reputation Starts With You

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Member Mixers

Tucson member Mixer FX Luminaire Sponsors Tucson Mixer in October

Many thanks go to Kris Klein and FX Luminaire for sponsoring the mixer at the El Parador in Tucson.

FX Luminaire and Hunter Industries introduce Lumineux.

If innovative exterior lighting product and superior client services are what you’re looking for when shopping for low voltage lighting supplies…look no further than to FX Luminaire. Founded in 1988 by Joshua Beadle, FX has long been the source for exterior lighting components that are durable, high performing, easy to use and backed up by a factory support team eager to help Lighting Installers and Designers create award winning lighting projects.

In February, Hunter Industries, the irrigation innovators, acquired FX Luminaire. What does this mean for the lighting industry? You now have two highly creative companies joining forces to collectively meet the demands of the ever changing market. Combining Hunter’s engineering prowess with Mr. Beadle’s lighting brilliance, the market will soon witness the emergence of a revolutionary new generation of lighting products.

This “marriage of strengths” between FX and Hunter has already begun with the introduction of a new wave of LED technology for exterior lighting - Lumineux. Through the brand name Lumineux, FX will produce an exciting family of LED based products. Lumineux LED lighting components represent the future of exterior lighting where the demands for the highest efficiency components engineered to stand the test of time will be expected. Lumineux will meet the market demand for products that will be easily upgradeable as the LED technology continues to rapidly accelerate. And all Lumineux LED lighting components can be easily renovated in the field .

For more information about FX Luminaire and the new Lumineux LED product line, please contact your local FX Representatives – John Binkele at 619-990-4400 (john.binkele@hunterindustries.com) ) or Kris Klein at 480-305-4289 (kris.klein@hunterindustries.com) .

October member Mixer October Phoenix Mixer Is Sponsored By Horizon Distributors

Over 100 ALCA members and guests enjoy a barbeque feast at Lucille’s at Tempe Marketplace thanks to the good folks at Horizon Distributors.

Jeff Nordstrand with Alliance Safety explained to the crowd the most common injuries occurred in the ALCA group and the affect that these injuries have on their businesses and their worker’s compensation premiums.

Bob Franchetto addressed the crowd on behalf of Horizon. Horizon Distributors is a professional distributor that sells a variety of products and services to the green industry professional with over 60 Horizon Sales Centers in the Western US, including 10 here in Arizona. It offers customers the industry’s widest choice of irrigation, landscape, specialty and power equipment products, including top quality brand names like Hunter, Toro, Irritrol, Exmark, Echo, Shindaiwa, Pavestone, Vista Professional Outdoor Lighting, Barrett Pumps, Tucor and Monsanto. For more information, please visit www.horizononline.com.

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resource guide Erosion Control/Hydroseeding

Western Sere

(888) 448-SERE • www.westernsere.com

Please see our ad on page.........................................3 Insurance

Hill & Usher

(602) 956-4220 • www.trimrisk.com

Trucks

Camelback Ford

(480) 455-4777 • www.camelbackford.com

Please see our ad on page.......................................23

Pioneer Ford

(623) 298-3900 • www.pioneerford.com

Please see our ad on page.......................................15

Please see our ad on page.......................................25 Irrigation Products/Systems

DIG Corp.

(800) 322-9146 • www.digcorp.com

Please see our ad on page.........................................3

Ewing Irrigation

(800) 343-9464 • www.ewing1.com

Please see our ad on page.........................................2

AD INDEX All Season Wholesale Growers.......................................25 Arid Zone Trees..............................................................15 Auto Safety House LLC...................................................15 AZ Big Tree Movers.......................................................... 7 Bingham Equipment Company........................................12 Camelback Ford..............................................................23

Cast Lighting.................................................................... 25 DIG Corp.......................................................................... 3 Diversified Print Solutions................................................. 7 Evergreen Turf, Inc........................................... Back Cover Ewing Irrigation................................................................. 2 Focus Industries............................................................... 15 FX Luminaire..................................................................... 9 Hendrickson Brothers..................................................... 27 Hill & Usher..................................................................... 25 International Wholesale Pottery........................................ 6 Pioneer Ford................................................................... 15 Sunrise Tree Farm............................................................ 25 Target Specialty Products.................................................. 5 Western Sere..................................................................... 3 Western Sod...................................................................... 7

Hendrickson Brothers

(951) 737-6822 • www.hendricksonbros.com

Please see our ad on page.......................................27 Landscape Equipment

Bingham Equipment Company

(480) 610-4082 • www.binghamequipment.com

Please see our ad on page.......................................12 Landscape Supplies

Target Specialty Products

(800) 352-3870 • www.target-specialty.com

Please see our ad on page.........................................5 Lighting

Cast Lighting

(800) 914 CAST • www.cast-lighting.com

Please see our ad on page.......................................25

Focus Industries

(888) 882-1350 • www.focusindustries.com

Please see our ad on page.......................................15

FX Luminaire

(858) 535-8000 • www.fxl.com

Please see our ad on page.........................................9 Nurseries

All Season Wholesale Growers

(602) 276-0230 • www.allseasongrowers.com

Please see our ad on page.......................................25

Arid Zone Trees

(480) 987-9094 • www.aridzonetrees.com

Please see our ad on page.......................................15

Sunrise Tree Farm

(623) 556-0820 • www.sunrisetreefarm.com

Please see our ad on page.......................................25 Pottery

International Wholesale Pottery

(602) 454-0528 • www.iwpottery.com

Please see our ad on page.........................................6 Printing

Diversified Print Solutions

(520) 393-3551 • www.diversifiedprintsolutions.com

Please see our ad on page.........................................7 Sod/Turf

Evergreen Turf, Inc.

(480) 456-1199 • www.evergreenturf.com

Please see our ad on page........................ Back Cover

Western Sod

(800) 832-TURF • www.westernsod.com

Please see our ad on page.........................................7 Tree Movers

AZ Big Tree Movers (888) 761-0249

Please see our ad on page.........................................7 Truck Bodies, Trailer Parts & Equipment

Auto Safety House LLC

(602) 269-9721 • www.autosafetyhouse.com

Please see our ad on page.......................................15

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