ALCA Influence January 2011 by Association Outsource Services, Inc.

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 2011

Excellence 34th Annual

in Landscaping Awards

PRSRT STD U.S. POSTAGE

PAID

PERMIT NO. 2840 SACRAMENTO, CA

Cover Photo: 2010 Presidential Award Recipient REALM

Table of Contents

January/February 2011

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

President’s Message...............................................................4 CEO Message.....................................................................6 Good News for ALCA Members..............................................6 ACLP Schedule.................................................................. 7-8 Calendar.............................................................................8 ALCA 2011 Board of Directors..............................................10 Sky Blu Underwood Golf Tournament......................................11 ALCA 2010 Awards............................................................12 Presidential..................................................................12 Xeriscape....................................................................13 Maintenance................................................................14 Special Awards............................................................15 Lifetime Achievement Award............................................17 New Members...................................................................18 ALCA Sponsors...................................................................18 Protect the Eyes, Face..........................................................19 ALCA Member Mixers..........................................................20 Open Houses.....................................................................21 Resource Guide..................................................................22

2011 Board of Directors President

Will Pereira

Publication Advertising

President Elect

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

Asset Landscaping

Design

BlueStar Resort & Golf

Matthew Johnson Vice President

Lori Mattas

Xeriscapes Unlimited, Inc.

Printing

Tony Acosta

Secretary

Copeland Printing

Neill-Vecchia & Associates

Arizona Landscape Contractors’ Association

Kim Kleski

Treasurer

Steve Shields

Hill & Usher Insurance & Surety

Chief Executive Officer Judy Gausman judy@azlca.com

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

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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January/February 2011

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3/1/10 3:29 PM

President’s message

President’s Message

A Will Pereira 2011 ALCA President

nother year has come and gone here in Arizona. The landscape industry, though not as thriving as it once was, continues to provide a living for many Arizona residents. Though many of our members are facing challenging times, I would encourage our membership to focus on the positives of doing business in Arizona that many of our colleagues out of state cannot take advantage of. I started my career in this industry several years ago working for my father in the Northwest. My father still owns and runs a landscape construction company in Idaho. Though the economy where he does business is doing arguably better than our

local economy, it is rather hard to install landscaping with several feet of snow on the ground. It is important to remind ourselves that many of our cohorts in other states are forced to close the doors until the cold of winter passes. Meanwhile, it is business as usual (sort of) for us here in the desert southwest. Until I moved to Arizona in 1999, I always thought of landscaping as a seasonal business. Along with the seasons came the ebb and flow of hiring and laying off for the winter. The concept of winter annual flowers and overseed, not to mention the revenue generated by both, were completely foreign to me. Sure, we generated revenue doing snow removal… if it snowed. The only thing snow removal really did was force me to wake up at 2:00 A.M., climb onto an ice cold tractor, and move snow for clients while they enjoyed the fresh snow on the local ski hill. What I’m driving at is despite the challenges we face in this economy, as landscape contractors and vendors servicing the industry, we have it pretty good here in Arizona. Many contractors are using this time to diversify their businesses. Contractors and vendors alike seem to be expanding their service offerings now more than ever. Be it pool construction, landscape maintenance, or another previously unexplored market segment, our members are industrious and are finding ways to weather the storm. Simultaneously, others are focusing on market niche and becoming specialized. Where many are diversifying, others are taking a hard look at inefficiencies, analyzing their businesses, and making tough decisions in order to better themselves. It is those tough decisions that will make us better businesspeople in the long run, be it in good times or bad. Meanwhile, our brothers in the Northwest are waiting for snow to fly while no revenue is coming through their doors. My point is that despite the challenges we face in this economy, there is a great deal of upside to being involved in the landscape industry in Arizona. With the exception of our members in areas such as Flagstaff, we have the opportunity to work year round. I would encourage each of you to remember that fact every working day. The dedicated ALCA Board of Directors, as well as the Board of Trustees, strives to continually improve business opportunities for contractors and vendors alike. Our overarching goal is to develop the ALCA brand in such a way that the clients you call on insist on hiring ALCA member contractors. Simultaneously, it is our duty as ALCA member contractors to partner with ALCA member vendors. We have enormous strength in numbers and we can do a great deal working together to improve our collective odds of success. I firmly believe that much like the storms of winter, this economic storm will be a distant memory soon, and when it passes, we will be better business people because of it. Will Pereira, ALCA President

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January/February 2011

From the growers of bobsod— the Official Turf of the D-backs and Chase Field

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CEO’s Message

or 34 years, Arizona Landscape contractors have been submitting their phenomenal projects into the “Excellence In Landscaping” awards competition that is sponsored by ALCA. In many ways, 2010 was a stellar year for participation and I guess there is no better way to promote professionalism by receiving one of these prestigious awards. Preparations for ALCA’s biggest event are a year-round planning process, and I want to express my appreciation and gratitude to Dwight Faires with Vista Professional Outdoor Lighting, who serves as the Director of the Awards Program. To describe the preparations in short, the applications for project entries are edited and revised for distribution in which the landscape contractors must submit by the end of June. A series of judges are recruited and scheduled for two days to pour over all of the entries and photos. An additional two days of on-site visits are carefully scheduled to ensure they are worthy of an excellence award. Many thanks go to this year’s judges: Beth Gosnell/All Season Wholesale Growers, Cindy Odgers/South Mountain Community College, Anthony Paredes/Desert View Landscape, Kim Kleski/Neill Vecchia and Associates, Kelly Young/U of A Cooperative Extension, Janet Waibel/Waibel & Associates Landscape Architecture, and Dwight Faires/Vista Professional Outdoor Lighting. This year, 57 projects were recognized in 21 categories along with five special award acknowledgements. Sponsors are recruited for each of the 26 categories and once again their generosity was overwhelming. Prior to the awards banquet, guests enjoyed a Silent Auction and Cocktail Reception organized by Chairman Brandon Kelly with Vista Professional Outdoor Lighting. Thank you Brandon and his committee consisting of Deb Carson with John Deere Landscapes, Bob Johns with Color Et

Good News for ALCA Members! Submitted by Steve Shields, Hill & Usher Insurance, 602-956-4220

he National Council on Compensation Insurance filed an overall 2.8% rate decrease effective January 1, 2011. These rates have been deemed approved by the Arizona Department of Insurance and apply to all new business and renewals. The Green Industry’s rate changes are listed below: CLASSIFICATION

2010

2011

% Change

0005 Nursery operations

$2.48

$2.52

1.6% increase

0042 Landscape construction

$6.02

$4.93

18% decrease

0106 Tree pruning and removal

$22.97

$21.70

6% decrease

5183 Irrigation installation

$4.77

$4.56

4.4% decrease

5606 Executive supervision

$1.71

$1.53

11% decrease

9102 Landscape maintenance

$3.11

$2.80

10% decrease

The overall rate reduction in Arizona is positive news considering National trends in carrier loss ratios are exceeding 100%. Written Workers Compensation premium in 2009 in Arizona was $600 million, which was down 20% over 2008 written premium. Tree Trimming operations being the exception, the annual burden for your Workers’ Compensation will be less than 5% of payroll. With rates decreasing by 10% or more for both Landscape Maintenance and Landscape Construction, efforts towards loss prevention are clearly paying off. Keep up the good work.

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Al, Dave Kredit with Kredit Lawn Sprinkler & Outdoor Lighting, Nancy Coxe with Western Innovations, Nate Gould with Hunter Industries and Dwight Faires for collecting and organizing the silent auction items. Attendees walked away with some great deals while contributing $5,000 to the ALCA Scholarship Fund. Those in attendance were not disappointed to watch the video presentation of who would become the 2011 ALCA President. With a little light humor, I was able to choose the President through participation in the “Rating Game”, a spoof of the late 60’s Dating Game with three very interesting contestants. Rising victorious as the next President was Landscaper #2 Will Pereira with BlueStar Resort and Golf. Also pictured here was Rating Game host, Dwight Faires, and Landscaper #1 and #2, David Spector with TLC-The Landscape Company and Tony Acosta with Xeriscapes Unlimited, Inc. Matthew Johnson with Asset Landscaping whipped everyone into shape as the “Stage Manager”. The awards program takes a lot of year round planning and hard work from Board members and many volunteers. In addition, I am very pleased to have Kara Kerker on board as ALCA’s new employee and team member. Kara began working just a few weeks before the award’s ceremony. Her hard work and long hours were greatly appreciated as she applied the finishing touches to ensure the golf tournament, silent auction and awards program ran smoothly. Yes, we are already gearing up for the 2011 awards program. I invite you to participate by lining up your best projects in order to compete with the best. Wishing you all a very happy and prosperous New Year! Judy Gausman, CEO

ALCA Bulletin Board

Coming Soon

Arizona Certified Landscape Professional (ACLP) 2011 Schedule

Workshops Plant Identification Tree Planting & Staking Annual and Perennials Sod Laying & Turf ID Tree Pruning Irrigation Pesticides & Calibration Water Management Soils and Fertility Plant Problem Diagnosis Safety & Tools Spring Certification Exam Fall Certification Exam

Phoenix Jan 8 Feb 5 Mar 5 Apr 9 May 7 Jun 4 Jul 9 Aug 6 Sep 10 Oct 8 Nov 5 Apr 30 Oct 22

Maricopa Jan 12 Feb 9 Mar 9 Apr 13 May 11 Jun 8 Jul 13 Aug 10 Sep 14 Oct 12 Nov 9

Tucson Jan 15 Feb 12 Mar 12 Apr 16 May 14 Jun 11 Jul 16 Aug 13 Sep 17 Oct 15 Nov 12

All Dates and Locations Are Subject To Change. WHERE: Maricopa Workshops and Exams will be held at the Maricopa Ag Center located at 37860 W. Smith-Enke Rd. in Maricopa, AZ. Phoenix Workshops will be held at U of A Cooperative Extension located at 4341 E Broadway Rd in Phoenix with the exception of January 8 & May 7. Those will be held at Ewing Irrigation located at 3441 E Harbour Dr in Phoenix.

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Variety ‘AZT’

Quality, Uniform, Desert Adapted Trees

SIMPLY THE BEST Prosopis Hybrid ‘AZT’ Thornless Mesquite Cercidium praecox ‘AZT’ Sonoran Palo Verde Olneya tesota ‘AZT’ Desert Ironwood Cercidium Hybrid ‘AZT’ Thornless Hybrid Palo Verde Chilopsis linearis ‘AZT Bi-Color’ Desert Willow Chilopsis linearis ‘AZT Desert Amethyst’ Desert Willow Cercidium Hybrid ‘DM’ Desert Museum Hybrid Palo Verde* *AZT propagates the ‘Desert Museum’ with the guidance and permission of the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum

Tucson Workshops will be held at Pima Community College, Bldg CC, Amethyst Community Room located at 1255 N. Stone Ave. in Tucson, AZ 85705. WHEN: All workshops and exam will begin at 8 a.m., sign in at 7:30 a.m. and end at 12:30 p.m. COST: Workshops (includes classroom instruction, study guide, and written exam)

$60 for ALCA members

$120 for non-members

Certification Exam:

Written section of the exam is included in price of the workshop

Practical sections of the exam are: $ 75 for ALCA members

$150 for non-members

Retakes are $15 for each written and each practical portions of the exam

CERTIFICATION: Participants will be declared an AZ Certified Landscape Professional when he/she receives at least a minimum score of 70% on each written and practical section of the exam.

Specimen Trees for Desert Landscapes

ARID ZONE TREES

phone (480) 987-9094 fax (480) 987-9092 e-mail: e-mail:information@aridzonetrees.com aridzonetrees@msn.com

REGISTER: ALCA Office - 5425 East Bell Road Suite 105 - Scottsdale, AZ 85254 Phone: (602) 626-7091 - Fax: (602) 626-7590 - Website: www.AZLCA.com

WWW.ARIDZONETREES.COM January/February 2011

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ALCA Bulletin Board

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

Plant Identification Workshop

January 8, 2011 Ewing Irrigation, 3441 E Harbour Dr, Phoenix January 12, 2011 Maricopa Ag Center, 37860 W Smith-Enke Rd, Maricopa January 15, 2011 Pima Community College, Bldg CC, Amethyst Community Room, 1255 N Stone Ave, Tucson Workshop Description: Identify plants by using basic plant structures including leaves, stems, flowers and fruit. Learn both common and scientific names and pronunciations. Use tools and techniques to make identifying plants easier. Describe how to tell similar looking plants apart from each other. Workshop Competencies: 1. Session completers will demonstrate knowledge of • Leaf terminology for plants • Scientific names of plants and how to pronounce them • Plants that perform well in Arizona landscapes • Recommended tree specifications 2. Session completers will demonstrate proficiency in • Identifying plants by their leaves, flowers, fruit • Distinguishing the different types of palms • Comparing and contrasting different species within a genus • Differentiating the different pine species

2011

Calendar of Events January 19

Phoenix Member Mixer

Board of Trustee Meeting

ALCA Board of Director’s Meeting

Tucson Member Mixer

February 16

Phoenix Member Mixer

March 16

Phoenix Member Mixer

Tucson Member Mixer

ALCA Board of Director’s Meeting

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Tree Planting & Staking Workshop

February 5, 2011 U of A Cooperative Extension, 4341 E Broadway Rd, Phoenix February 9, 2011 Maricopa Ag Center, 37860 W Smith-Enke Rd, Maricopa February 12, 2011 Pima Community College, Bldg CC, Amethyst Community Room, 1255 N Stone Ave, Tucson Workshop Description: How to select quality trees from the roots up. Proper pre-post planting techniques including calling Blue Stake, soil percolation testing, digging the hole, dealing with soil problems, amending (or not) the backfill, creating an irrigation well, mulching the surface and cleaning up. The right way to stake a tree that needs staking and follow up tree care to ensure tree health and vigor long term. Workshop Competencies: 1. Session completers will demonstrate knowledge of • Primary use of trees in the landscape • Landscape function of trees • Desirable above-ground tree structures • Unacceptable defects of tree structure including lack of foliage, broken twigs, co-dominance of stems, support staking, mechanical damage, suckers, cut roots at drainage holes. • Observable desirable below-ground tree structures 2. Session completers will demonstrate proficiency in • Selecting trees for quality • Appropriate handling of trees prior to planting • Preparing the planting pit • Setting and backfilling • Appropriate staking • Early care maintenance Instructors: Juan J. Barba – Tree Planting & Staking Juan J. Barba, a certified and consulting arborist born in Tucson, received a degree from the University of Arizona in Landscape and Environmental Horticulture. Juan focuses on all aspects of arboriculture and continues to keep current with industry trends and issues. He 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. Cindy Odgers – Plant Identification Ms. Odgers has held the position at South Mountain Community College as Associate Dean of Occupational Education and Workforce Development since January 25, 2008. Ms. Odgers has worked for the Maricopa County Community College District since 1996, most recently as Director of Agribusiness and Urban Horticulture at Mesa Community College. She also served as Chair of MCC’s Department of Agriculture and Technology from 2004 to 2007, overseeing 14 residential faculty, 12 support staff, and more than 80 adjunct faculty. She has also served as a Horticulture Instructor at Mesa Community College, Rio Salado College and Glendale Community College, teaching plant biology, agriculture, agronomy and entomology. She is currently Chair and lead member for the Agriculture/Equine Science Instructional Council and serves as Chair of the State Agriculture Articulation Task Force. Ms. Odgers received her M.S. in Environmental Resources from Arizona State University, and her B.S. in Horticulture from Oklahoma State University. She is currently a Ph.D. candidate at Arizona State University. Cindy has a broad background in career and technical education, extensive experience in forging partnerships, and a great understanding of the education and training needs of local business and industry. Shannon Scott – Tree Planting & Staking and Plant Identification Shannon Scott is a Tucson native but has lived in Phoenix since 1990. He has 35 years of experience in the landscape industry, in which 33 of them have been with AAA Landscape. Shannon holds certifications in ACLP, OPM and is a certified arborist. His time in the industry has been split between landscape management, landscape construction and arbor care. He is currently the Director of Education at AAA Landscape but considers himself a tree hugger first and forever.

Membership Application

Membership Application Company: _____________________________ Primary Contact: _______________________ Address: ____________________________________________________________________ City/State/Zip: ______________________________________________________________ Phone: ___________________ Fax:____________________ Cell: _____________________ Email: ___________________________ Website Address:___________________________

Contractor Membership is a person, firm, partnership or corporation actively engaged in the construction or maintenance of landscapes. (Based on AZ sales revenue to the landscape Industry)

Your Hunter Preferred Contractor Program points are now available to pay your 2011 membership dues. $275 $370 $580 $880 $275

or or or or or

 690 Hunter Points  925 Hunter Points 1450 Hunter Points 2200 Hunter Points  690 Hunter Points

Contractor Class 1 (under $100,000) Contractor Class 2 ($100,001—$475,000) Contractor Class 3 ($475,001—$1.5M) Contractor Class 4 (Over $1.5M) Architects & Designers

List or check project and/or service types: Curbing Garden Center Hardscape Installation Horticulture Consultant Interior Plantscaping Irrigation Construction/Repair Landscape Architect

Landscape Commercial Construction Landscape Residential Construction Landscape Commercial Design Landscape Residential Design Landscape Lighting Installation Landscape Commercial Maintenance Landscape Residential Maintenance

Masonry/Paving Pest Control Applicator Swimming Pool/Spa Tree Relocation Tree Trimming/Removal Water Features Other_____________________

Payment Method Check enclosed

Visa/MasterCard/Amex

Hunter Points

Card Number: ________________________ Expiration date:____________ CCV_______ Name/Signature of Card Holder: ____________________________ Amount: $_________ Billing Address _____________________________________________ Zip ____________

ALCA • 5425 East Bell Road Suite 105 • Scottsdale, AZ 85254 Phone: (602) 626-7091 • Fax (602) 626-7590 • www.AZLCA.com

January/February 2011

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ALCA Board of Directors

2011 Board of Directors and CEO

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

President Elect & Director of Government Affairs Matthew Johnson Asset Landscaping

Vice President Tony Acosta Xeriscapes Unlimited, Inc.

Treasurer Steve Shields Hill & Usher Insurance & Surety

Secretary Kim Kleski Neill-Vecchia and Associates

Immediate Past President Ed Macias Desierto Verde

Past President Dennis Canedy Sunset Landscaping & Designs

Director of Awards Program Dwight Faires Vista Professional Outdoor Lighting

Co-Director of Programs Nate Gould Hunter Industries

Co-Director of Programs Jesus Montano Ewing Irrigation

Co-Director of Programs Bob Franchetto Horizon Distributors

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

Director of the ACLP Beth Gosnell All Season Wholesale Growers

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Director of Board Development Robert Clinkenbeard ILM - Integrated Landscape Mgmt.

T January/February 2011

Director of Membership Development David Spector TLC-The Landscape Company

CEO Judy Gausman

ALCA Landscaping Awards

Sky Blu Underwood Golf Tournament It was a spectacular November 19th day for hosting the annual ALCA Golf Tourney at Southern Dunes in Maricopa. 76 golfers participated and 23 companies sponsored the event in which the proceeds benefit the Sky Blu Underwood Scholarship Fund. This year taking the first place prize was the team from Tierra Madre: Don Wood, Andrew Hull, Bryce Hull and Doug Fleming. The second place winners were the DLC Resources team: Jim Holbert, Don Schlander, Luis Ochoa and Manny Morales. Tim Foraker and Don Schlander took home the prizes for their closest to the pin drives on two different holes. The team earning the most coveted prize, the â&#x20AC;&#x153;Most Honestâ&#x20AC;? award, goes to Everett Hogsed and Bill Fleming with Enchanted Garden Landscape and Roger Ramsey and Jose Molina with Ewing Irrigation. There were 6 final contestants who sunk the 60 foot putt in the Putting Contest. Richard Thornton rose victorious over Jared Morris, Bob Schottke, Don Wood, Phil McCleary and Philip Meyer. Many thanks go to Golf Chairman Nate Gould with Hunter Industries who organized the tournament. A big thank you goes to all of the participants, volunteers and the sponsors who supported this event. Thank you to Nicole Preston, Shawnacy Leonard and Stacey DeuPree with Horizon for their help with the registration. Thank you to Karen Draeger with John Deere Landscapes for assisting with the raffle prizes and the putting contest. Thank you to Shannon Pochert and Samantha Saia with Caretaker Landscape and Tree Management for their help with the long drive hole. Thank you to the companies that donated raffle prizes: Dream With Colors, Enchanted Garden Landscape, Fertizona-Fenemore, Horizon, Hunter Industries, John Deere Landscapes, Vista Professional Outdoor Lighting, Irritrol/Toro Co, and BlueStar Resort and Golf. Thank you to Don Wood and Tierra Madre for sponsoring the barbeque lunch. Thank you to Bingham Equipment for the Hole-in-One sponsor and a chance to win a Kubota Mower, BC 3200 Utility Vehicle, Stihl Back Pack Blower and Hedge Trimmer. And finally, thank you to all of the hole sponsors: AAA Landscape Arcadia Landscape Auto Safety House Desierto Verde DIRT DLC Resources Dream With Colors Evergreen Turf Ewing Irrigation HD Supply-Waterworks Hill & Usher Insurance Horizon Distribution Hunter Industries Irritrol/The Toro Company John Deere Landscapes Rain Bird Strategic Benefits Consultants Sunrise Tree Farm West Coast Turf Western Innovations Wilbur-Ellis

Most Honest Team

Putting Contest Finalists

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 Tierra Madre Lunch Sponsor January/February 2011

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ALCA Landscaping Awards

2010 PRESIDENTIAL AWARD — Skyline Xeriscape – REALM REALM an Urban Organics Co. was honored with the Presidential Award at the 34th annual “Excellence In Landscaping” awards program on November 20th at the Wild Horse

This 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. Jason Isenberg entered The “Skyline Xeriscape” landscape project in the category of Single Family Residential Installation $75,001 $125,000. Paul Tammelleo with Irritrol/The Toro Company sponsored and presented the award. The inspiration for the Skyline Xeriscape project was to have water as the focal point. It was important to show that water is both a vital natural resource in need of conserving and that water is a source of recreation and relief in the harsh Tucson climate. Upon entering the property, native and arid-adapted plant material was utilized to soften walls and create a transition from the raw, natural desert to the more refined interior yards. Inside the space, sculptural plant material and boulders were situated in elegant massings to bring color, texture, and natural style to the area. In addition to ensuring minimal water usage in the landscape, it was necessary to make the space inviting. A kitchen and dining area were introduced to pull people outside and into the far corners of the property; that also meant providing them with much sought after shade in the form of two steel and vine-covered ramadas.

Pass Hotel & Casino.

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ALCA Landscaping Awards

2010 XERISCAPE AWARD — Private Residence – Enchanted Garden Landscape, Inc. 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. In order to be considered for this prestigious award, projects must first receive an award of excellence. This year’s Xeriscape Award was presented to Donna Winters with Enchanated Garden Landscape, Inc. for a Private Residence in the category of Residential Redesign over $350,000. Andy Zwick with Ewing Irrigation sponsored and presented the award. This private residence and grounds were developed out of respect for the natural beauty of the Sonoran Desert. This home has constantly been evolving. In the original concept, the house was imposed upon the site. It didn’t turn towards or relate to its surroundings. After living in the house, the owner began to experience the pleasure of living in the Sonoran Desert. To enhance their newfound outdoor lifestyle, a series of pathways were developed. Tiled walkways were replaced by natural granite stone walkways matching the surface of the boulders weaving their way through the landscape. Through specialty theme gardens, the residents experience a wide range of Arizona gardens. Aloe and succulent gardens attract Hummingbirds. We added cacti gardens, agave gardens, shade gardens, nocturnal gardens, and integrated pots near patios and walkways. Around every bend, a new experience of color, texture, and occasionally fragrance is thrown in to enjoy. The garden continues to evolve, fed by the dynamic energy of the clients and their deep appreciation of natural beauty.

January/February 2011

The Alca influence

ALCA Landscaping Awards

2010 BEST MAINTENANCE PRACTICES AWARD — Optima at Camelview – ISS Grounds Control, Inc. ISS Grounds Control was honored at the Arizona Landscape Contractors Association’s 34th 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 a pristine look that everyone can appreciate and enjoy. Dan Scholl and Todd Huston with ISS Grounds Control accepted the award for the Optima at Camel View in the category of Commercial Maintenance $150,000 - $250,000. Paul Myers with Desierto Verde (last year’s recipient of this award) sponsored and presented the award. Optima at Camelview is located at the northern gateway to downtown Scottsdale. The luxurious high rise shares the desert botanical landscape with Camelback Mountain. Optima is the first multi-level use oasis of green roof terraces in Arizona. As soon as one steps onto the 14-acre sanctuary, they experience cascading terraces with different landscape themes. On the ground level, the flow of vibrant green, colorful shrubs, and groundcover steers the eye up through the native trees to the roof top, passing the multitude of color and gracious greens of each terrace. The maintenance included screening of each patio without interrupting the serenity of the project. The entire project is watered by a computer generated, two-wire irrigation controller including a fertigation system carefully supplying calculated amounts of water and nutrients to the abundant plant material. The overall project is based on line of sight, leaping from unit to unit.

The Alca influence

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ALCA Landscaping Awards

ALCA 2010 special awards Chosen by their peers, five ALCA members were honored with special awards at the 34th annual “Excellence In Landscaping” Awards Program. These individuals were honored and recognized for their dedication and commitment to ALCA and the landscape industry. These awards were sponsored by: Evergreen Turf, DLC Resources, DIRT, Hill & Usher Insurance and Horizon Distributors. Budding Contractor of the Year Award Eric Mytko, Life’s A Garden Eric Mytko is a 3rd generation Phoenix native and a true entrepreneur in the green industry. Eric created Life’s A Garden with the intention of educating people on how to successfully grow their own organic fruits, veggies, herbs, nuts & flowers here in the Sonoran desert, in a sustainable way. With a great interest in resource preservation, and water being the key, Eric incorporates Rain Water Harvesting techniques into every project. Eric married his high school sweetheart, Vanessa, and together they have two budding children, Gavin who is 3 and Elli now 16 months. Though never far from the garden, in the summer, Eric and his family spend time hiking and camping, collecting wild raspberries and mushrooms and if he is real lucky, a fish or two, as well as jamming the incredible peach harvest from their own gardens. Great things are to come from Eric as ALCA’s 2010 Budding Contractor of the Year.

Associate Member of the Year Beth Gosnell, All Season Wholesale Growers Beth Gosnell, owner/manager of All Season Wholesale Growers, received her Bachelor of Science – Plant biology from Arizona State University in 2001 where she graduated Summa Cum Laude and received the Outstanding Graduating Senior Award. Beth has been a strong supporter of ALCA. This is demonstrated not only by her financial commitments but also by her strong participation and involvement in the association. She has been a sponsor of ALCA’s monthly meetings and the new membership recruitment/mini trade show. She has sponsored golf tournaments and contributed silent auction items in which the proceeds benefit the ALCA Scholarship Fund. Beth volunteers her time and expertise as a judge for ALCA’s “Excellence In Landscaping” awards program and is a proud sponsor of this event. Beth contributes articles for The ALCA Influence magazine based on her plant expertise. She organizes and runs the plant identification contest at ALCA Field Day. Beth Gosnell has a strong commitment to give back to the community. She is always stepping up to the plate to donate plant material for several of the ALCA Community Projects. Beth has recently accepted a position on ALCA’s Board of Directors as the ACLP Director and has been working diligently with her committee to build on the success of the program that has certified nearly 400 individuals. Beth Gosnell is a leader in the Arizona landscape and nursery industry and is highly respected by her peers. It is a pleasure to honor Beth Gosnell as the 2010 Associate Member of the Year.

Nice Plants!

All Season Wholesale Growers

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Jeremy Ludwig is Honored at Awards Program One of the main goals of ALCA is to provide education to its members and ALCA’s Certified Landscape Professional program, otherwise known as ACLP, does just that. The program establishes and maintains a standard of excellence in the Arizona landscape industry through a course of 10 educational workshops and a certification exam. The exam participants must show proficiency in each of the 10 competencies by achieving a minimum score of 70% in each area to become certified. A participant has three years from the date of their first exam attempt to complete and pass all of the sections to become certified. To pass all of the competencies on the first round is a true accomplishment. Jeremy Ludwig, with The Gardener’s Touch, was honored at the November 20th awards program for accomplishing that feat. He was presented with his ACLP Certificate by Beth Gosnell, ALCA’s Director of the ACLP program. Congratulations, Jeremy Ludwig! January/February 2011

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ALCA Landscaping Awards Landscape Contractor of the Year Rick Schomburger, Solana Outdoor Living Rick Schomburger was born in 1963, in Mt. Clemens, Michigan. His family moved to Pittsburgh, PA in 1964 where Rick spent his childhood and young adult years. Rick attended Deer Lakes High School where he was captain of his high school football team. After graduation in 1981, he went on to study and play football at Duquesne University where he earned a Bachelor’s of Science degree in Mathematics and a minor in Systems Engineering. Rick continued his education by earning a MBA from the University of Arizona’s Eller School of Business. Rick began his career as an operations consultant with Universal Scheduling Company and has continually strived for positions of leadership. He has held executive management roles for such well known companies as Cooper Tools, Weiser Lock and Rainbird Irrigation. In November 2007, Rick acquired All Seasons Desert Landscaping and subsequently renamed the company Solana Outdoor Living. As the new name implies, the company now offers their clients a full range of services which typically start with their award winning designers and can carry through to include scheduled maintenance of the property. As testimony to the success of the company, in December of 2008, Solana Outdoor Living was awarded the Ritz Carlton – Residences project. Rick and his wife Cheryl moved to Tucson in the spring of 1999 and live there with their 3 daughters, Olivia, Nicole and Danielle. Rick is a Third Degree Mason and a member of the Conquistadors. He is actively involved with Community Associations Institute, Southern Arizona Home Builders Association, and National Federation of Independent

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Businesses. When he is not working, he enjoys riding his motorcycle, cheering on his favorite football team, The Pittsburgh Steelers, and spending time with his family. Congratulations go to Rick Schomburger as ALCA’s 2010 Contractor of the Year.

Outstanding Customer Service of the Year Paul Tammelleo - Irritrol/Toro Company Paul Tammelleo has been with the Toro Company for the past 10+ years and considered one of the most valuable members of the company. He is a hard worker, knowledgeable, and most importantly prides himself as being committed to taking care of his customers. He always has a positive and can do attitude and is willing to take on any challenge with great enthusiasm. Prior to his role as District Sales Manager for Irritrol /Toro Company, Paul had his first job in the Landscape & Irrigation industry over 20 years ago doing sprinkler repair during summer breaks as a teenager. He went on to attend Loyola Marymount University in Los Angeles, CA but still returned to work summers at a local irrigation distributor. The knowledge he has gained in over 20 years of repair, installation and sales give him an unprecedented ability to understand his customers’ issues. He has extended his time to specifiers, municipalities, distributors and contractors throughout his 11 year tenure at Irritrol /Toro Company and has forged many valuable relationships in the process. These relationships have given him the platform to grow his business and to educate his customers on new technologies. Paul truly thrives on spending time directly with the customer, allowing him the opportunity to gain the respect and trust of another satisfied customer. Paul spends countless hours visiting job sites, assisting with installations, providing troubleshooting assistance and training his customers on new products and new technology. In a relationship business such as this, these are the hours that are most valuable to him. It is for all of these reasons and more that it is an honor and a privilege to award the 2010 Outstanding Customer Service of the Year to Paul Tammelleo.

ALCA Landscaping Awards

Lifetime Achievement Ed Macias – Desierto Verde Ed Macias grew up in the tiny, sea-side town of Carpinteria, California. He is a graduate from San Diego State University with degrees in Botany and Anthropology. Life took Ed back to Santa Barbara where he ran his own small landscape business and eventually bought a small landscape nursery in Santa Barbara. After dealing with a major drought that hit the area, he decided to pack up his family and moved to Phoenix. After 17 years working for The Groundskeeper, Ed accepted a position at the beginning of the year working at Desierto Verde. Ed’s positive thinking, innovative ideas, and motivating personality are an asset not only to the landscape industry but to ALCA. Ed was the recipient of the 2008 ALCA Landscape Contractor of the year and has led the association for the past 2 years as ALCA’s distinguished President. Ed Macias is most deserving of ALCA’s 2010 Lifetime Achievement Award.

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ALCA Bulletin Board

New

Members Ambassador Landscaping, LLC Paul Snyder 3534 East Edna Avenue Phoenix, AZ 85032 Phone: 480-254-2254 Email: Paul@ AmbassadorlandscapeAZ.com

Arizona Exterminating Co.

Ryan Gielow P.O. Box 13536 Scottsdale, AZ 85267 Phone: 480-607-4604 Fax: 480-607-4608 Cell: 602-339-2198 Email: RGielow@AZEXT.com

EmbroidMe

Brenda Hackman 1645 E. Camelback Rd., #103 Phoenix, AZ 85016 Phone: 602-277-9242 Fax: 602-277-9252 Cell: 602-421-7208 Email: owner@embroidme-phoenix.com

Landscape Design West, LLC

Shelly Ann Abbott, MLA 14056 East Copper Mesa Court Vail, AZ 85641 Phone: 502-834-2932 Email: shelly_arizona@msn.com

Mesa Community College

Peter Conden 1833 West Southern Avenue Mesa, AZ 85202 Phone: 480-461-7125 Fax: 480-461-7309 Cell: 623-640-8800 Email: peter.conden@mesacc.edu

Morning Dew Landscaping, Inc.

Chris Lloyd 2 South Beaver Street, Suite 125 Flagstaff, AZ 86001 Phone: 928-779-3125 Fax: 928-779-9253 Cell: 928-606-4988 Email: azlandscaping@aol.com

Pinnacle Design Inc.

William D. H. Francis 1048 N. 44th Street Suite 100 Phoenix, AZ 85008 Phone: (602) 952-8585 Fax: (602) 952-8686 Cell: (602) 616-1564 Email: bfrancis@pdi-az.com

Special Thank You to our 2011

ALCA Sponsors

Platinum Sponsors

Gold Sponsors

Desierto Verde, Inc. DIRT DLC Resources, Inc. Evergreen Turf, Inc. Ewing Irrigation Products Horizon Distribution Inc. Hunter Industries/FX Luminaire John Deere Landscapes Rain Bird Corporation The Toro Company/Irritrol

Hill & Usher Insurance & Surety

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Silver Sponsors Sunrise Tree Farm West Coast Turf

Visit us on the web

AZLCA.com

Safety

Protect the Eyes, Face SCF Arizona your Work Comp Specialist

housands of people are blinded each year from work-related eye injuries that could have been prevented with the proper selection and use of eye and face protection. Eye injuries alone cost more than $300 million per year in lost production time, medical expenses, and worker compensation, according to the U.S. Department of Labor. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration requires employers to ensure the safety of all employees in the work environment, which means eye and face protection must be provided whenever necessary to protect against chemical, environmental, radiological or mechanical irritants and hazards. Each year, SCF receives scores of workers’ compensation claims from workers who have been injured by debris that has injured their eyes or struck them in the face. OSHA addresses eye and face protection in specific standards for general industry and for construction fields. In general, OSHA standards require that employers provide the kinds of protection, whether it is safety goggles or complete face shield, to ensure safety from flying particles, molten metal, liquid chemicals, acids or caustic liquids, chemical gases or vapors, or potentially injurious light radiation. OSHA also requires that all eye and face personal protection equipment be marked in a manner that the manufacturer can be identified easily. For full-face protection, face shields are the best choice. They protect the worker from splashes, heat, flying particles and other hazards, while allowing for plenty of ventilation. Face shields are recommended especially for welding, riveting and activities that involve extreme heat. But remember, face shields won’t protect

the eyes, so they must be used in combination with safety glasses or goggles. And some face shields are designed specially to be fitted with hard hats. As far as protecting the eyes, never rely on regular glasses as a way to protect them. Workers in areas where there is a lot of airborne dust or grit, flying particles or splashing chemicals, need to choose protective eyewear best suited for the job. Here are some tips provided by the American National Standards Institute: • Glasses with impact resistant lenses that have side shields provide adequate protection for most types of work. • Flexible-fitting or cushion-fitting goggles fit easily over prescription glasses and provide front and side protection. • Special purpose eyewear, such as chemical or chipping goggles, provides maximum protection from fumes and flying debris. • Full face shields may be worn in addition to protective eyewear for maximum facial protection. For more on eye safety, watch the Eye Safety video on SCF Arizona’s website (www.scfaz.com) under Safety Net. You also can order eye safety posters and informational brochures on the SCF Arizona website. If you would like more information on workplace safety please contact your SCF Association Coordinator, Tod Dennis at 602-631-2212.

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Member Updates

member Mixer Thank you to John Deere Landscapes and John Deere Green Tech for sponsoring the October Member Mixer in Phoenix Even though John Deere Landscapes is relatively new to the scene here in the Valley, we have employees that carry impressive years of service in this industry. Jason Westcott, our Branch Manager in Tempe, has 20 plus years of experience. Ermes Palacios, our Manager in Gilbert, has 8 years in the industry. Debra Carson, one of our Outside Sales Reps, 30 years in the irrigation industry. Look, a new comer, Wade Taylor, our Manager in Phoenix, 9 years. Mike Heilner one of our Outside sales Reps, 22 years in the fertilizer and chemical industry. You have a question, a situation, need some help? Give us a call. We have the experience to get you the answers you need. Service?! John Deere Landscapes understands service! Our Team is lead by Tim Foraker with over 20 years experience in the Industry! He works with a Sales Team that is well rounded in the day to day operations as well as planning and forecasting for seed, fertilizer, and chemicals. Operationally, each branch has employees with over a decade of experience! JDL’s branches are focused on servicing the contractor whether it is in landscapes, hardscapes, pesticide, or golf.

“Technology Solutions for the Green Industry” Founded in 1986, John Deere - Green Tech was the first company to recognize and meet the needs for technical expertise and field engineering on the new generation of sophisticated, computer based irrigation control equipment just beginning to emerge. Since then, Green Tech has expanded to 27 states, assisting public and private organizations, contractors and end-users alike with modern landscape management tools and water conservation efforts. They created the high-tech blueprint by perfecting pre-packaged systems from specifications to installation and certification. Green Tech is staffed by the finest service technicians, sales engineers, manufacturing and support personnel in the industry. Their core capabilities include: * Central Irrigation Control Systems - Rainmaster - Exclusive * UL Listed Satellite Assemblies * UL Listed Controller Assemblies * Solar Assemblies * Irrigation Booster Pumps * Fertigation and Chemigation Systems * Wireless Signal Assemblies * Water Harvesting Systems and Design * Hand Held Remote Control Systems Come see what John Deere Landscapes can do for you! Deere Valley: 22010 N. 21st Avenue, Phoenix AZ 85027 Phone: 623-587-5636 Tempe: 623 South Perry Lane, Tempe AZ 85281 Phone: 480-557-0032 Gilbert: 18315 E. Warner Road, Higley AZ 85236 Phone: 480-840-6999 Surprise: 13415 W. West Gate, Suite 101, Surprise AZ 85374 Phone: 623-584-5901 Casa Grande: 640 B W. Centennial, Casa Grande AZ 85222 Phone: 520-423-2366

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Open houses Open house ABC Scapes Celebrate Seventeen Years November 1st marks the 17th anniversary of ABC Scapes who specializes in providing landscape design, installation, and maintenance services. Every year the owners, Ryan Hagadorn, Warren Runcorn, and Wayne Pasco spend days preparing a barbeque feast after the hot summer and overseeding season. The luncheon extravaganza is shared with their employees and industry friends. It is their way to express their appreciation for all of the hard work, dedication and pride they take to care for their landscape projects. ABC Scapes has a great team that has been recognized by the Arizona Landscape Contractors’ Association as an award winning recipient in Arizona’s “Excellence In Landscaping” program. Congratulations ABC Scapes!

Open House Desierto Verde held their 2nd annual open house on October 29th. They kicked off the fall season with their clients, friends, and partners. Guests enjoyed pumpkin bowling, hayrides, ghoulish gourmet taco bar, marvelous door prizes, and a chance to vote for their favorite Halloween dessert.

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Ad index/Resource Guide Chemical Products / Related Services

Univar USA, Inc.

(866) 854-3367 • www.univarpps.com Please see our ad on page..........................19

Landscape Equipment

Bingham Equipment Company

(480) 610-4082 www.binghamequipment.com Please see our ad on page..........................18 Landscape Supplies

Erosion Control/ Hydroseeding

Target Specialty Products

Western Sere

(888) 448-SERE • www.westernsere.com Please see our ad on page............................3

(800) 352-3870 • www.target-specialty.com Please see our ad on page..........................23

Focus Industries

Hill & Usher

(602) 956-4220 • www.trimrisk.com Please see our ad on page..........................16

(888) 882-1350 • www.focusindustries.com Please see our ad on page..........................19

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

Hendrickson Brothers

(951) 737-6822 • www.hendricksonbros.com Please see our ad on page............................4

(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............................5 Tree Movers

AZ Big Tree Movers

Truck Bodies, Trailer Parts & Equipment

Auto Safety House LLC

Nurseries Irrigation Products/Systems

Evergreen Turf, Inc.

(888) 761-0249 Please see our ad on page..........................20

Lighting Insurance

Sod/Turf

All Season Wholesale Growers

(602) 269-9721 • www.autosafetyhouse.com Please see our ad on page..........................22

Arid Zone Trees

WATER-EFFICIENT DRIP PRODUCTS FOR LANDSCAPE IRRIGATION

(602) 276-0230 • www.allseasongrowers.com Please see our ad on page..........................11 (480) 987-9094 • www.aridzonetrees.com Please see our ad on page............................7

Netafim • www.netafimusa.com

(888) 638.2346 Please see our ad on page............................5

Pottery

International Wholesale Pottery

(602) 454-0528 • www.iwpottery.com Please see our ad on page..........................21

AD INDEX All Season Wholesale Growers................................................................ 11 Arid Zone Trees......................................................................................... 7 Auto Safety House LLC............................................................................ 22 AZ Big Tree Movers................................................................................. 20 Bingham Equipment Company................................................................. 18 DIG Corp................................................................................................... 3 Evergreen Turf, Inc.....................................................................Back Cover Ewing Irrigation.......................................................................................... 2 Focus Industries....................................................................................... 19 Hendrickson Brothers................................................................................ 4 Hill & Usher............................................................................................. 16 International Wholesale Pottery............................................................... 21 Netafim...................................................................................................... 5 Target Specialty Products......................................................................... 23 Univar USA, Inc........................................................................................ 19 Western Sere.............................................................................................. 3 Western Sod............................................................................................... 5

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