The Growing Concern - December 2012 by Sandy Munley

Growing Concern

The

December 2012

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

Computer Estimating Clinic January 22, 2013 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Central Ohio PAGE 15

OLA Meeting January 24, 2013 PAGE 7

Landscape Design Course, Part I January 30-31, February 2, 2013 PAGE 16-17

President’s column

A Quick Glance Back The year moves fast in the landscape industry and even faster, I believe, in the world of the OLA. After twelve board meetings and articles for this magazine, 2012 is winding up. What has impressed me this year is the dedication of the OLA staff and board in keeping the OLA moving forward in a positive direction and I am excited to see what 2013 holds. This past year the OLA board has been working to implement a strategic plan that will set up future growth and opportunities for the next three to five years. The OLA Happy Hours are a new and fun way to connect with vendors and contractors outside of the normal OLA meetings. As always I encourage you to attend these events as often as you can. We also have an exciting mix of new board members that I am confident will provide great leadership as they grow with the OLA.

tell on this one, although for most of us watching, time cannot speed up enough. The other huge story was the election – you miss the robo-calls, don’t you? I’m not going to get political but there is one take away from all of this that could be a great marketing idea. I must have received at least thirty pounds of postcards during the last two months alone. It is estimated that 126 million eligible voters cast ballots in this election (with 93 million eligible voters choosing not to exercise that right). An estimated $6 billion was spent by both campaigns, which equates to $48.78/vote. Would you spend $48 to get a new client that will be loyal for the next four years? I would.

So, what about this past year? I hope all of our members have seen an uptick in their business with hopes of an even better year on the horizon. 2011 was cool and wet and 2012 was hot and dry, so 2013 is due to be a banner year for normal temperatures and weather.

This was to be my last article for the magazine and last month as OLA president but change is always a phone call away it seems. Our president-elect has chosen to leave the board to spend more time with family. We will miss his input and leadership, but he is to be commended for putting family first. To help fill this void, I volunteered to stay on as board president for another year. I look forward to working with the board, Sandy, and the staff in advancing the mission of the OLA – and to writing twelve more articles.

The Browns are under new ownership with yet another new quarterback. Time will

Enjoy the upcoming Holidays with friends and family.

JAmes Arch, ASLA Vizmeg Landscape, Inc.

This was to be my last article for the magazine and last month as OLA president but change is always a phone call away it seems.

The Growing Concern x December 2012 x 3

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

Ohio’s Professional Green I n d u s t r y A s s o c i at i o n Ohio Landscape Association 9238 Broadview Road Broadview Heights, Ohio 44147 Phone: 440-717-0002 or 1-800-335-6521 Fax: 440-717-0004 Web: www.ohiolandscapers.org or www.myohiolandscape.com Editor Lindsay Scott, Ohio Landscape Association

Features

President’s Column

A Quick Glance Back

Perennial Focus

The Holiday Bookshelf, Part 1

For Safety Sake

Plant Of The Month

New Businesses

Quercus prinus Chestnut Oak

Fiscal Fitness

Year-End Financial List

28 Obamacare is Here to Stay. 32

Advertising Information Monthly circulation: 1,000 copies Submission deadline: 10th of month prior to publication month. For advertising and classified rates, please call 1-800-335-6521 Disclaimer The Ohio Landscape Association, its board of directors, staff and the editor of The Growing Concern neither endorse any product(s) or attest to the validity of any statements made about products mentioned in this, past or subsequent issues of this publication. Similarly, the opinions expressed in The Growing Concern are those of the authors and do not necessarily represent the views of the Ohio Landscape Association.

Officers President James Arch, ASLA

Now What?

President-Elect Greg Supers, II

Directions

Treasurer Chad Mikin

2012 Wrap Up

Inside Every Issue

31 34

Regular Writers James Arch, ASLA, Vizmeg Landscape, Inc. Michael J. Donnellan, King Financial, Inc. Jim Funai, COLP, Cuyahoga Community College Shelley Funai, Stan Hywet Hall and Gardens Sandy Munley, Ohio Landscape Association Bobbie Schwartz, FAPLD, Bobbie’s Green Thumb

Directors Patrick Beam, RLA Josh Hayden Chris Meltzer, MLA Steve Moore Bryan Taynor Joe Twardzik, CID

Immediate Past President Joe Chiera, CLT

Advertising Index

OLA Staff Executive Director Sandy Munley

Welcome New Members

Membership Coordinator Jean Koch Events and Communications Manager Lindsay Scott

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

JANUARY

Valley Career Center in Brecksville. For more information or to register online, contact the OLA at 1-800-335-6521 or visit OhioLandscapers.org.

Last day to purchase tickets for OLA Family Fun Night and to watch the Cavs take on the Miami Heat!

Ohio Green Industry Advocacy Day FEBRUARY 27, 2013

Computer Estimating Clinic - CENTRAL OHIO January 22, 2013

Partner with other green industry colleagues and visit state legislators about critical issues important to Ohio’s green industry. For more information, contact the OLA at 1-800-335-6521 or visit OhioLandscapers.org.

CAVS Ticket Deadline JANUARY 20, 2013

Instructed by Jim Huston of J.R. Huston Consulting. Held at the Hilton Garden Inn in Dublin. For more information or to register online, contact the OLA at 1-800-335-6521 or visit OhioLandscapers.org.

OLA Meeting Announcement JANUARY 24, 2013 Topic: Internet marketing and Customer Relations Management (CRM). Panel: Dennis Fehrenbach (Application Systems Consultants), and Jim McClintock (Company 119). Held at St. Michael’s Woodside in Broadview Heights. For more information or to register online, contact the OLA at 1-800-335-6521 or visit OhioLandscapers.org.

Landscape Design Short Course, Part I January 30-31, February 1, 2013 Part I of three landscape design courses that build on each other. Instructed by Kathy Stokes-Shafer, APLD. Held at the Cuyahoga Valley Career Center in Brecksville. For more information or to register online, contact the OLA at 1-800-335-6521 or visit OhioLandscapers.org.

FEBRUARY

Landscape Industry Certified Technician Written Test February 5, 2013 Written test will be offered at the OLA office in Broadview Heights. To check additional dates of when the written test will be offered or for more information on the Landscape Industry Certified Technician Test, visit OhioLandscapers.org.

Central Ohio Meeting Announcement FEBRUARY 13, 2013 Go behind the scenes and join us for a tour of Thorsen’s Greenhouse in Delaware, Ohio. For more information or to register online, contact the OLA at 1-800-335-6521 or visit OhioLandscapers.org.

Landscape Design Short Course, Part II FEBRUARY 26-28, 2013 Part II of three landscape design courses that build on each other. Instructed by Kathy Stokes-Shafer, APLD. Held at the Cuyahoga

March

Stone Clinic: Right Tool/Right Technique MARCH 7, 2013 Instructed by Chris Pascoe. Sponsored and hosted by Tri-R-Stone in Garfield Heights. For more information or to register online, contact the OLA at 1-800-335-6521 or visit OhioLandscapers.org.

Landscape Design Short Course, Part III MARCH 11-13, 2013 Part III of three landscape design courses that build on each other. Instructed by Kathy Stokes-Shafer. Held at the Cuyahoga Valley Career Center in Brecksville. For more information or to register online, contact the OLA at 1-800-335-6521 or visit OhioLandscapers.org.

OLA Meeting Announcement MARCH 14, 2013 Topic: Creative landscape solutions that sell. Speaker: Kevin O’Brien, APLD, Lifestyle Landscaping. Held at St. Michael’s Woodside in Broadview Heights. For more information or to register online, contact the OLA at 1-800-335-6521 or visit OhioLandscapers.org.

OLA Family Fun Night MARCH 20, 2013 Join the OLA and watch the Cavs take on the Miami Heat. A limited number of discounted tickets are available. Tickets are on sale until January 20, 2013 unless sold out prior. For more information or to register online, contact the OLA at 1-800-335-6521 or visit OhioLandscapers.org.

August

Landscape Industry Certified Technician Test August 8, 2013 The hands-on portion of the Landscape Industry Certified Technician Test will be offered on the campus of the OSU/ATI in Wooster. For more information, visit OhioLandscapers.org or call The Ohio State ATI at 330-287-7511. The Growing Concern x December 2012 x 5

6 x Official Publication of The Ohio Landscape Association

OLA Annual Meeting Announcement 2012/2013 NE Ohio Meeting Sponsors Gold Level

January 24, 2013 Internet Marketing & Customer Relationship Management FEATURING

Jim McClintock

Company 119

Dennis Fehrenbach

Application Systems Consultants

In this digital business age, internet marketing and Customer Relationship Management (CRM) are tools that every business needs to know and understand in order to grow. Is your website just an expensive electronic brochure or is it a great ambassador for your company? Does it portray the same level of quality that you have worked so hard to create for your company? Are you using your online presence to create new opportunities? Learn how to use it as a tool and have potential customers find you and not your competition.

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Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn, Pinterest. Social media isn’t necessarily for everyone. Is it for you? Find out which ones your prospects are using, what is right for you, and how to target your demographic and place ads intended for them. Social media doesn’t have to be a giant drain on your time. If managed properly, it can become an incredibly effective part of your marketing plan. With the rise of cloud computing, it is now possible for smaller organizations to utilize Customer Relationship Management (CRM) and tap into the automated record keeping and sales tools that were previously only available to large organizations. • Use online tools to organize contact information in your MS Outlook • Free up time by focusing only on qualified leads • Use an organized system to prevent “dropping the ball” on a closeable opportunity

AGENDA 6:00 pm to 7:00 pm

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• Generate a time line for actions that will turn into sales • Document important events and contact details for future reference • Do it on a “pay as you go” basis

REGISTER TO ATTEND BY JANUARY 14, 2013 HELD AT ST. MICHAEL’S WOODSIDE 5025 East Mill Rd (I-77 & Wallings Rd) Broadview Heights, OH 44147 QUALIFIES 1.5 CEU

Perennial Focus

Bobbie Schwartz, FAPLD Bobbieâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Green Thumb

The Holiday Bookshelf, Part 1 As properties grow smaller and smaller or gardeners move from homes to condominiums or apartments, there is a definite need for advice about container gardening in limited spaces. Fern Richardson, in her book Small-Space Container Gardens, shares inspiration and practical advice for balconies, porches, patios and small spaces. Living in an apartment herself and the author of a blog entitled Life on the Balcony, Fern has grown plants that provide food (fruits and vegetables), beauty, and bouquets, as well as privacy and style. Most of the plants she uses do double or triple duty, featuring color, texture and form, while attracting beneficial insects, butterflies, and birds.

Just as a landscape designer starts with the dimensions of the space, so too must the owner of a small space take measurements and create a drawing, and determine what the space will encompass and what your clientâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s lifestyle is. Fern suggests starting with a color scheme in order to make the space look intentional rather than random.

The author contends that one must have a design strategy in order to have the space reflect oneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s unique style. Simplified design plans have, therefore, been included and can be used as is, mixed, or as a starting point.

The choice of containers can add pizzazz to the design and also determine whether the plants will live. Keep in mind, especially on balconies, that the weight of the planted container is a huge factor in whether it can withstand high winds. Essential to thoughtful design is a balance of size and shape with the intended plant. Many containers can be attached to railings and posts. Pick containers carefully for their ability to survive winters outside since storage space is usually minimal.

The author frequently reminds the reader that planning a container garden is very similar to planning an in-ground garden. The elements are harsher up in the air; therefore, knowledge of the hardiness zone is essential (one zone colder than your given zone is desirable), as is knowledge of sun and shade patterns.

8 x Official Publication of The Ohio Landscape Association

continued on page 10

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Perennial Focus continued from pg 8 You may start with the containers and plants, but Fern is quick to point out that you can also transform spaces with new flooring and “walls” (trellises and other types of green walls), as well as furniture that is scaled down, fun garden ornaments, and lighting. Throughout her book, Fern offers inexpensive suggestions for transforming ordinary materials into something eye-catching. The last few chapters of the book give advice on the basics of gardening and on pest control. Everything is well illustrated with excellent photographs. Although the book is probably aimed at the home gardener, there are some excellent suggestions of which landscape designers can avail themselves. Privacy is a quest for many. Who wants their neighbors to know what they’re doing and when? There are already too many intrusions into our private lives. It’s a delight to have a beautiful landscape but not so much if an ugly view beyond the property line impinges on that landscape. As landscape designers, we want to create havens of joy and serenity for our clients.

Barriers may deter the mailman from cutting across the grass or keep out unwanted visitors, but the client may not want to keep everyone away. Wingate says, “An effective barrier creates a welcoming ambiance while guiding, directing, and instructing.” Barriers can be implied, e.g. a planted berm that redirects foot traffic or a low fence that discourages animals or children from entering a particular area. Barriers can also be explicit: constructed fences, living fences, or a combination of constructed panels and plants. There are an infinite number of fence styles and Wingate shows some unusual ones. She also has specific recommendations for creating barriers for a variety of animals.

This is a book to read when seeking a different solution for privacy issues.

Thus was born the premise for Landscaping for Privacy: Innovative Ways to Turn Your Outdoor Space into a Peaceful Retreat, by Marty Wingate. Wingate breaks down this quest for privacy into buffers (which soften the impact of nuisances), barriers (which deter invasion), and screens (which hide unwanted sights).

All too often when clients request a privacy screen, the offered solution is a tall hedge of arborvitae. There are two problems with this solution. One is that it creates a barricade and the second is that in areas of the state with heavy snows, within a few years, the arborvitae are falling down. Screens should be visually interesting as well as functional.

Wingate offers several suggestions for screening items within the garden such as garbage and recycling bins, large equipment, work areas, and air conditioners. She also offers suggestions and advice for screening unwanted views outside the garden. All of her ideas are well illustrated with photos taken in several different gardens. This is a book to read when seeking a different solution for privacy issues.

Buffers do not create more space between the client and what bothers them, but they do create the illusion of separation. Terraced beds and island beds create visual separation from the street as do tree lawn beds planted with low mounding shrubs instead of grass. Informal hedges can also provide a cushion along a property line without impinging on sight lines. Hedgerows are more useful for areas of the property where sightlines are not an issue.

Richardson, Fern, Small-Space Container Gardens, Timber Press, Portland, 2012, Paperback, $19.95.

Water features can be very effective noise buffers and Wingate offers several comments on how to choose the desired type of sound. Environmental intrusions – wind, sun, salt, and pollution – are more difficult to deal with. Careful siting of trees and shrubs can buffer wind and sun and cut down on energy bills, while judicious selection of plants that are salt tolerant will contribute to long lasting landscapes along heavily salted streets.

Bobbie Schwartz, FAPLD, owner of Bobbie’s Green Thumb in Shaker Hts., Ohio,

Wingate, Marty, Landscaping for Privacy: Innovative Ways to Turn Your Outdoor Space into a Peaceful Retreat, Timber Press, Portland, 2011, paperback, $19.95.

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

10 x Official Publication of The Ohio Landscape Association

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F o r Sa f e t y Sa k e

New Businesses By U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Safety and Health Adminsitration Starting a new business can be challenging. OSHA can help by explaining the federal regulatory requirements concerning safety and health and help you create a safe and healthful workplace for your employees that conforms to federal law. States with OSHA-approved state plans have adopted standards equivalent to OSHAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s. For additional information, visit us online at www.osha.gov.

Employer Responsibilities Under the provisions of the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970 (OSH Act), as the employer, you must provide a workplace free from recognized hazards that are causing, or are likely to cause, death or serious physical harm to your employees regardless of the size of your business. You must comply with OSHA standards and regulations under the OSH Act. You must also be familiar with those OSHA standards and regulations that apply to your workplace and make copies of them available to employees upon request.

Records Maintenance Most businesses with 11 or more employees at any time during the calendar year must maintain records of occupational injuries and illnesses as they occur using OSHA Form 300, Log of Work-Related Injuries and Illnesses. Such recordkeeping is not required for employers in most retail trade, finance, insurance, real estate, and service industries.

OSHA Posters You must display OSHAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Safe and Healthful Workplaces poster in a conspicuous location in your workplace where workers and prospective employees can see it. This publication informs employees of their rights and responsibilities under the OSH Act.

12 x Official Publication of The Ohio Landscape Association

continued on page 14

...businesses with 11 or more employees at any time during the calendar year must maintain records of occupational injuries and illnesses...

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F o r Sa f e t y Sa k e continued from pg 12 Hazardous Chemicals Communication Employers must inform their workers about the dangers of chemical hazards in their workplaces and train their employees regarding proper safeguards. This includes providing information on the hazards and identities of chemicals employees may be exposed to on the job and describing protective measures to prevent adverse effects. Chemical producers and importers must evaluate their products for chemical hazards and provide hazard information to customers.

Inspection All businesses covered by the OSH Act must comply with federal workplace safety and health standards, or comparable state standards, if the workplace is under the jurisdiction of a state agency administering an OSHA-approved safety and health plan. Every establishment covered by the OSH Act is subject to inspection by federal or state compliance safety and health officers who are chosen for their knowledge and experience in the occupational safety and health field. OSHA conducts workplace inspections of businesses in federal jurisdictions, and OSHA-approved state plans are responsible for conducting workplace inspections of businesses under state jurisdiction to enforce their own standards that are “at least as effective” as federal requirements.

Available Services OSHA’s Area Office staffs provide advice, education, and assistance to business (particularly small employers), trade associations, local labor affiliates, and other stakeholders who request help with occupational safety and health issues. They work with professional organizations, unions, and community groups concerning issues of safety and health in the workplace. In addition, OSHA offers the following services: • Consultation – Employers who want on-site assistance in identifying and correcting hazards and in improving safety and health programs can get help from a free and confidential consultation service largely funded by OSHA and delivered by state consultation staffs. • Instruction – Training courses in safety and health subjects are available to the private sector through the OSHA Training Institute in Des Plaines, IL, and at 12 education centers throughout the nation. For locations, visit OSHA’s Office of Training and Education online at http://www.osha.gov/dte/ edcenters/index.html. • Publications – Various publications are online at www.osha.gov to help small businesses comply with OSHA requirements. • Partnership – In a partnership, OSHA enters into an extended, voluntary, cooperative relationship with groups of employers, employees, and employee representatives to encourage, assist, and recognize their efforts to eliminate serious hazards and achieve a high level of worker safety and health.

More Information You can find more information about help for new businesses, including the full text of OSHA’s standards, on OSHA’s website at www.osha.gov.

14 x Official Publication of The Ohio Landscape Association

OLA EDUCATION SERIES

for landscape maintenance

design/build firms

January 22, 2013 8:00 am to 4:30 pm Instructed by

Jim Huston

J.R. Huston Consulting, Inc. Held at Hilton Garden Inn Dublin, OH

This 1-day computer estimating clinic is designed to help you quickly improve your estimating methods and financial systems...helping you to prosper in any economy! With this clinic, you will:

Qualifies for 8 CEUs for Landscape Industry Certified

• • • • •

receive bid evaluation worksheets for calculating crew rates and service rates prepare your 2013 budget and future annual budgets learn how to calculate your true costs more accurately and learn what to charge for services and products learn your break-even point(s) and know “when to say when” calculate costs specific to your company

“Taking this course provided me with tools to help grow my business and win contracts, while feeling confident that I priced the jobs competitively!” - Dominic Liberatore, Liberatore Landscape Construction, Inc. Attendees will need to bring a laptop computer with Microsoft Excel to participate. For complete course day agenda and attendee supply list, please visit www.ohiolandscapers.org and click on the Education page. Cancellations made 8 to 14 days prior to the course start date will be subject to a 30% cancellation fee. NO refunds will be issued for cancellations 7 days or less prior to the course, no shows, or cancellations on the day of the course. If, for any reason, the course is cancelled, enrollees will be notified, and fees refunded in full.

Register On Time, Payment Received Before 1/8/12 Register Late, Payment Received After 1/8/12 Firm Address City Phone (______)

OLA Members OLA Members

$199 $229

NON Members NON Members

$259 $289

Contact State Fax (______)

Zip

NAME OF ATTENDEE

FEE $ $

 Check No. ___________ Enclosed

Charge to my

 MasterCard

 Visa

Acct. No.

TOTAL DUE

$ Exp. Date

Name on Card

Signature

Billing Address + Zipcode for Card

Last Three Digits on Signature Line

COMPUTER ESTIMATING CLINIC Make checks payable and send to: Ohio Landscape Association, 9238 Broadview Rd, Broadview Hts., OH 44147 Register by phone or fax with MC or Visa: Phone 440-717-0002 or 1-800-335-6521 • Fax 440-717-0004 • www.ohiolandscapers.org

OLA EDUCATION SERIES

These three landscape design courses build on each other. They are intended for those who have not had any formal design training and who seek a sound working knowledge of the design process. No previous drawing skills are needed. In class, participants will be drawing their designs, but whether you choose in the future to draw your designs by hand or use computer graphics, you still need to know the basics of good landscape composition. These classes will delve into the design process, sales, and focus on the design principles. Participants will work on various projects that will enhance your creativity and give you a new way of looking at a property and the client’s needs. Some projects will deal with elevation changes, water features, and plant compositions. By enrolling in this series of three hands-on courses, participants will be able to demonstrate their knowledge of the landscape design principles and the design process, and will be able to prepare graphically well-drafted landscape

plans for residential properties. Landscape Design Course, Part I January 30-31, February 1, 2013 Landscape Design Course, Part II February 26-28, 2013 Landscape Design Course, Part III March 11-13, 2013

Instructed by Kathy Stokes-Shafer, APLD Each 3-day course 8:00 am to 5:00/6:00 pm Held at Cuyahoga Valley Career Center Brecksville, OH

recommended for salespeople LANDSCAPE DESIGN COURSE, PART I and account executives No previous knowledge or pre-requisite needed Emphasis is placed on drawing and graphic skills with individual critiques of the lessons. We will go over the design process and discuss sales and working with the client. Class will focus on form/composition and understanding space. Lectures with slides will precede the drawing and design exercises on:

• • • • • •

• •

functional diagrams, alternatives to foundation planting, techniques of form composition, and some design principles Drawing exercises for two single-family residences, and more! Learn about new technology to aid in quick designs and sales

LANDSCAPE DESIGN COURSE, PART II Recommended pre-requisite is Course I Participants will delve into the design principles, design themes, force lines, and visualization of spaces. Individual help will be given throughout the process and participants will view lots of slides to spark creativity. Skills taught will include: • • •

Each course qualifies for 27 CEUs for Landscape Industry Certified

Plant and landscape graphic symbols Use of drafting equipment Architect and engineer scales for measuring and creating your plan to scale Techniques of lettering Drawing a base plan The landscape design process: drawing

Quick colored impressions for emphasizing design principles Looking at art and landscapes to see how the design principles are applied Form composition exercise based on design themes and force lines

• •

Emphasis will be on speed for plan drawings Design projects include a condominium garden, corner lot, master plan for single family residence - front and back with pool

LANDSCAPE DESIGN COURSE, PART III Recommended pre-requisite is Course II This course will cover plant composition, designing for major elevation changes, outdoor kitchens, pondless water features and overhead structures - plus more emphasis on the design principles. • • •

Proper format for plant lists and labeling Plant composition, texture, form, color and function Design principles as they relate to plants and plant placement

• •

Design projects with challenging elevation changes Outdoor living - kitchens, fire pits and overhead structures

OLA EDUCATION SERIES

course

date

Course I

ola member

non-member

before cut-off

after cut-off

before cut-off

after cut-off

January 30, 31, February 1, 2013

$315

$365

$415

$465

Course II

February 26, 27, 28, 2013

$315

$365

$415

$465

Course III

March 11, 12, 13, 2013

$315

$365

$415

$465

registration cut-off date is 14 days prior to the start of each course

SUPPLIES & MATERIALS Course fees do not include supplies and each attendee is responsible for furnishing their own materials. A complete list of supplies are available upon request or by visiting www.ohiolandscapers.org/design. Course manual and lunch are included in each registration fee.

COURSE REGISTRATION Course registration must be received by the OLA office no later than 14 days prior to the start of the course. Space is limited; register early. If paying by credit card, your card will be charged on or around the cut-off date of each course you register for, NOT when your registration is received. That way you are not paying for the course earlier than necessary, but your space is reserved. Payment MUST accompany registration. Register online at www.ohiolandscapers.org/design, or by mail, fax, or phone.

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

Firm Address City Phone (______)

Contact State Fax (______)

NAME OF ATTENDEE

Zip

Email COURSE #

FEE

☐ Course I

☐ Course II

☐ Course III

☐ Course I

☐ Course II

☐ Course III

☐ Course I

☐ Course II

☐ Course III

TOTAL DUE

NOTE: We will charge your credit card on or around the cut-off date of each course you register for, NOT when we receive your registration. This way you are not paying for the course earlier than necessary, but your space is reserved.

 Check No. ___________ Enclosed

Charge to my

 MasterCard

 Visa

Acct. No.

Exp. Date

Name on Card

Signature

Billing Address + Zipcode for Card

Last Three Digits on Signature Line

LANDSCAPE DESIGN COURSE Make checks payable and send to: Ohio Landscape Association, 9238 Broadview Rd, Broadview Hts., OH 44147 Register online, by phone or fax with MC or Visa: Phone 440-717-0002 or 1-800-335-6521 • Fax 440-717-0004 • www.ohiolandscapers.org

ohio green industry

ADVOCACY DAY February 27, 2013 COLUMBUS, OH You are invited to join us for the 2013 Ohio Green

REASONS TO ATTEND ADVOCACY DAY

Industry Advocacy Day on February 27th in Columbus.

LEGISLATION

This is a great chance to partner with fellow green industry colleagues to explain issues critical to your business and the size and importance of Ohio’s Green Industry to our state legislators.

Learn about newly introduced bills that will impact our business. Whether it’s on immigration, workers’ compensation or environmental reforms, this is the time for you to voice your concerns.

In these tough economic times, your participation in this grassroots effort is more important than ever before.

BUILD RELATIONSHIPS Elected officials need to be educated about our businesses and our needs. Your help is needed to build these relationships.

To particpate, complete the information below and return it with your registration fee before February 8, 2013 to the Ohio Nursery & Landscape Association. Visit OhioLandscapers.org\advocacyday for a tentative agenda for the day.

BUDGET CUTS Learn what these budget cuts might mean for your business.

PARTNERING ASSOCIATIONS

MAKE MEMBERSHIP COUNT A key benefit of your association is the government advocacy it provides and your ability to meet with legislators on behalf of the industry. CONTACT INFORMATION COMPANY

CONTACT

ADDRESS CITY PHONE (______)

STATE FAX (______)

ZIP

FULL HOME ADDRESS (For purposes of matching you with your legislator)

NAME OF STATE REPRESENTATIVE & SENATOR (If known) I AM A MEMBER OF (Please select)

☐

Ohio Landscape Association

☐

Golf Course Superintendents Association (Ohio Chapter)

☐

Ohio Nursery & Landscape Association

☐

Ohio Lawn Care Association

☐

Nursery Growers of Lake County Ohio

☐

Ohio Turfgrass Foundattion

☐

Ohio Professional Applicators for Responsible Regulation

PAYMENT INFORMATION Return this form, along with payment of $89, to the Ohio Nursery & Landscape Association, 72 Dorchester Square, Westerville, Ohio, 43081. Phone: 1-800-825-5062 Fax: 614-899-9489 Checks made payable to the Ohio Nursery & Landscape Association. MasterCard and Visa payment accepted.



CHECK NO. ___________ Enclosed

CHARGE TO MY

 MASTERCARD  VISA

ACCT. NO. NAME ON CARD BILLING ADDRESS & ZIPCODE

EXP. DATE SIGNATURE CARD SECURITY CODE

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Did you know? Most computers come from overseas on either ships or planes – the two types of transportation with the greatest carbon footprint. And, that’s before they are shipped on trains and trucks domestically. AGC The Creative Advantage is a marketing and print communication company specializing in creative design, literature and brochure design, advertising, direct mail marketing, sustainable printing, interactive marketing and other related services.

THE CREATIVE ADVANTAGE

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Plant Of the Month

Jim Funai, COLP Cuyahoga Community College

Shelley Funai Stan Hywet Hall and Gardens

Quercus prinus

Chestnut Oak

Few genera of woody plants are able to come close to the diversity you will find in Quercus across the globe, making it a fascinating plant to learn and use. Last year we shared a unique member called the Willow Oak (Quercus phellos) that had a very non-oaky leaf resembling a willow leaf. This month we selected another non-oaky leafed member called the Chestnut Oak. Can you guess what genus of plants the leaf shape resembles? Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s right, water lily! Okay, you had it right; the leaf very closely resembles that of the once magnificent American Chestnut (Castanea dentata). Until the early 1900s, the American Chestnut ruled the Eastern U.S. forests towering over 100 feet and reaching out just as wide. A fungal blight has reduced the tree to stump sprouts, which are often killed after a short 20-year life. Chestnut Oak grew up with the American Chestnut and, since it is a different species, does not suffer from the fungal blight.

20 x Official Publication of The Ohio Landscape Association

A close look at the native stands of Chestnut Oak in our forests will quickly point out where you should consider planting this species. As mentioned, oaks have great diversity in shape, size, leaf, and, most important, soil preference. While the Swamp White Oak loves it some wet, dense soil, the Chestnut Oak is looking for something a little more on the well-drained side. It is typically found on slopes with a high amount of rock and sand and loves to hangout on the ridgetops of the Appalachian Mountains. This plant is considered a xerophyte, meaning it does best with little water in well-drained soils. Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve heard us say it before, pay attention to your soils and chose plants to match the existing soil types. continued on page 22

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The Growing Concern x December 2012 x 21

Plant Of the Month continued from pg 20 In the landscape, it would be realistic to expect this magnificent shade tree to reach into the 60 foot range with a close to equal spread. In youth it has a more pyramidal habit and will begin to become more upright oval shaped and eventually rounded. Recommended sites are parking lot islands, dry slopes, hot western or southern exposures on a property, and any other dry, loose soils. Keep in mind, this is an oak and with oaks come acorns. It seems to produce a heavy crop every four to five years and dropping acorns from 40 plus feet high on a car or someone’s head can cause some concern. The acorns seem to drop green and over a week mature to a deep brown color.

In the landscape, it would be realistic to expect this magnificent shade tree to reach into the 60 foot range with a close to equal spread.

Growth is not incredibly fast on this species. Expect a range of one foot to one and a half feet per year in most sites. The leaves are large (4 to 12 inches long) with a wavy margin and light green lustrous surface. Fall color is typically an orange-yellow to browns and will hang on to some leaves through the winter. We were inspired to write about this plant during a recent class fieldtrip to Lakeview Cemetery where we had a chance to stand under several species of this oak including the Ohio State Champion. Champion, you say? What do trees compete in? If you are unfamiliar with the state and national champion registry, put “Ohio Big Trees” in a Google search and it will take you to the Division of Forestry page within the Ohio Department of Natural Resources where Ohio’s champion trees are registered.

system taking three measurements into consideration. Trunk circumference is measured at diameter breast height (DBH) or 4.5 feet above the ground on the uphill side of the tree. Tree height is measured as the distance from the ground to the highest twig. Average crown spread is measured by considering the narrow width and the longest width and averaging the two (most trees being somewhat asymmetrical). Points are awarded for these measurements similar to scoring a deer antler and total points are given for the tree. The champion tree program is fascinating to explore as it has pictures of each tree registered. Many trees are on private properties but there are a good number that are on properties that can be visited. It is a way to reintroduce plants you use every day and see them in a much different light. Sometimes we think of our trees as being these little things we are always planting and handling as babies. It does good to remind ourselves of the sizes they can obtain, so we ensure we are planting the right plant in the right place and not setting a tree up for removal due to being to close to a structure or other target.

We hope you have a great holiday season and we’ll see you in the New Year with some new and exciting plants to add to your pallet of options!

Jim Funai, COLP, is full time faculty at Cuyahoga Community College, a PLANET accredited, associate of applied science in horticulture degree program,

The program is meant to record and keep track of the largest tree located in the state of both native and non-native species. It is truly breathtaking to see a state or national champion, as it allows you to see the true magnificence that each plant can obtain. The scoring system is explained in detail on the site, but consists of a point

22 x Official Publication of The Ohio Landscape Association

offering many paths to higher education to the green industry. Shelley Funai is a full time Senior Gardener at Stan Hywet Hall and Gardens in Akron, Ohio that offers a historic estate designed by Warren H. Manning and a beautiful manor house museum. Both are graduates of The Ohio State University. Contact Jim and Shelley via email at hortsquad@gmail.com

Stand Out

Ohio Landscape Industry Certified Technician Test Partnership

By earning your Landscape Industry Certified Technician certification, you send a message to your clients and/or employers that you’ve met and achieved the industry standard, and have demonstrated a thorough understanding of all the facets of your job. Landscape Industry Certified Technician Written & Hands-on Test Dates Registration deadline for the hands-on test is June 5, 2013. January 15, 2013 - WRITTEN TEST (CENTS Show in Columbus)

February 19, 2013 - WRITTEN TEST (Thornton’s Landscape in Cincinnati)

February 5, 2013 - WRITTEN TEST (OLA Office in Broadview Heights)

August 7 & 8, 2013 - WRITTEN TEST (Ohio State ATI in Wooster)

February 12, 2013 - WRITTEN TEST (Ohio State ATI in Wooster)

August 8, 2013 - HANDS-ON TEST (Ohio State ATI in Wooster)

information about the test, registration information or study materials, visit www.ohiolandscapers.org or www.onla.org, or call The Ohio State ATI at 330-287-7511 or 330-287-0100.

Fiscal Fitness

Michael J. Donnellan King Financial, Inc.

Year-End Financial List As the end of another year quickly approaches, here is a reminder to spend a couple of minutes and review your financial situation. Here is a list of the most pressing issues affecting your finances. There are many questions the government faces that should influence some decisions, including the fiscal cliff, the economy and changing tax rates.

Tax Issues Probably the most complicated and time-consuming issue, but the one that can cost you, or save you, the most money. You may need to generate gains or losses this year while the tax environment is still favorable.

With taxes expected to rise in the next year or so, it is probably advantageous to take some gains off the table at current capital gains rates. Another issue in this category is the Required Minimum Distributions (RMD) from qualified retirement accounts. Anyone over 70 Â˝ must take their RMD this year or face stiff tax penalties of 50%. Also be aware of required distributions from Beneficiary IRAs. continued on page 26

24 x Official Publication of The Ohio Landscape Association

VS GAME DAY March 20, 2013

DISCOUNTED TICKETS ON SALE NOW! Join the OLA for Family Fun Night and watch the Cleveland Cavs take on the Miami Heat! We have reserved a limited number of seats in Section 111 for a special price of $55 per ticket. Each ticket includes a $10 food voucher and commemorative drawstring bag. Hurry ... these tickets will not last! This game is certain to be a sell out and tickets don’t go on sale to the public until December 14th. Tickets are available until 1/20/13 unless sold out prior.

COMPANY

CONTACT

ADDRESS CITY

STATE

PHONE (______)

ZIP

EMAIL* *EMAIL ADDRESS REQUIRED*



...

CLEVELAND CAVALIERS VS. MIAMI HEAT

$55 PER PERSON

NUMBER OF TICKETS

Includes $10 food voucher and commemorative drawstring bag



CHECK NO. ___________ Enclosed

CHARGE TO MY

____

$ 55

TOTAL

$ ______ $ ______

 MASTERCARD  VISA

ACCT. NO.

EXP. DATE

NAME ON CARD BILLING ADDRESS & ZIPCODE

SIGNATURE CARD SECURITY CODE

CAVS FAMILY FUN NIGHT Make checks payable and send to: Ohio Landscape Association, 9238 Broadview Rd, Broadview Hts., OH 44147 Register online, by mail, phone or fax: Phone 440-717-0002 or 1-800-335-6521 • Fax 440-717-0004 • OhioLandscapers.org

Fiscal Fitness continued from pg 24 Mutual Fund Distributions As a general rule, don’t buy a mutual fund near the end of the year without first checking when, and if, the fund will be paying out a capital gain for the year. If you buy Fund ABCDX on December 5th and they distribute a capital gain for the year on December 15th, you are responsible for the tax on this year’s capital gain, even though you held the fund for only 10 days. Remember, a tax-sheltered account, such as an IRA, SEP, 401(k), etc. will not have this tax consequence.

Review Your Will and Insurance Policies Make sure you have the right amount of insurance for your needs. The insurance industry has become quite competitive and you can easily compare rates and possibly save hundreds, if not thousands, of dollars.

Establish A Retirement Account Small business owners might want to establish a 401(k) plan, SEP-IRA or Simple IRA for their business in the current tax year. Also check out the Individual 401(k) plans that many fund families and firms are now offering. Most of these plans have to be established by year-end.

Budget/Goals The holidays can be a busy time but also a good time to set a budget. This is the time of the year when lots of your money is being spent. There is no better time to look at your finances than now. Think of ways to cut down on some of your expenses and/or plan on contributing more to a retirement or college savings plans. Set financial goals, but also personal, professional, entertainment and educational goals. This is another great time to do that.

26 x Official Publication of The Ohio Landscape Association

With taxes expected to rise in the next year or so, it is probably advantageous to take some gains off the table at current capital gains rates. Analyze Your Portfolio This is a great time to sell a large position in one stock and diversify. With the Long-Term Capital Gains rate of 15% likely to rise, I don’t think you are going to ever see lower rates.

Charity/Giving If you itemize your deductions, you can claim the money you have given to charity. I have recommended to clients that they donate highly appreciated stock, which gives them the full deduction and avoids the Capital Gains Tax. Talk to your financial and tax advisors for information specific to your individual needs and goals.

Michael J. Donnellan is President of King Financial, Inc., in Strongsville, Ohio specializing in stock selection and retirement planning. Feel free to contact him with any questions or comments. Phone numbers are (440) 878-9676 (888) 780-STOX (7869).

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Obamacare is Here to Stay. Now What? By Burt Helm, Inc. Magazine Now that repeal is off the table, you need to get with the program, like it or not. Here are three things you have to do. The Affordable Care Act withstood many trials on its way toward becoming reality, from epic congressional battles, to a pivotal Supreme Court ruling, to – finally – yesterday’s Presidential election. Obama’s reelection means his health care reform act has dodged its last bullet, and the age of universal mandates, penalty taxes and tax credits will almost certainly go into effect (although probably not exactly as scheduled on January 1, 2014). What do you need to do to get your business ready? Inc. put the question to healthcare policy expert Henry J. Aaron, a senior fellow at Washington think tank Brookings Institution. Aaron offered three key ideas for entrepreneurs facing the enormous changes scheduled for healthcare during Obama’s second term.

28 x Official Publication of The Ohio Landscape Association

Weigh The Costs The key decision you will face is whether to sponsor a healthcare plan, if you don’t already have one, or to drop a policy you may have and leave employees to buy insurance on the exchanges themselves. The pros and cons of either route will depend on the size of your payroll, both in people and dollars. Do you have 50 or fewer employees? Then you aren’t subject to penalties for not providing an employee plan. On the flip side, helping employees pay for insurance affords tax advantages. If you have fewer than 25 full-timers on your payroll and their average pay is less than $50,000, the law affords you a tax credit of up to 35% for providing insurance today, rising to 50% in 2014. continued on page 30

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continued from pg 28 “There’s a calculation to be done,” says Aaron, if your employees are below the threshold (which tops out at 400% of the poverty line) for getting a federal subsidy to buy insurance on their own. In such a case, it might make sense to drop insurance and add the savings to your employee’s cash compensation. The question you should ask, Aaron says, is, “If my employees are going to be eligible for subsidies, why should I leave that money on the table?” If you have more than over 50 on staff, it’s a different story. If just one employee qualifies for insurance subsidies, and you don’t provide insurance, that means tax penalties.

Check Your State’s Approach In theory, you should be able to buy insurance for your employees on the new health-insurance exchanges. However, states differ in how they plan to administer the exchanges. “If you’re running a small business, what prospects you face depend sensitively on where you’re doing business,” says Aaron. Some states, like Vermont, will take an active role, making sure that a broad range of insurance plans will be available on the exchange. Many others leave it to the federal government to run the exchange for individuals and will leave employer-sponsored plans alone.

30 x Official Publication of The Ohio Landscape Association

If just one employee qualifies for insurance subsidies, and you don’t provide insurance, that means tax penalties. The complexities are likely to create a mini-boom in the services of insurance brokers. Aaron suggests that you are likely to find them even more necessary than they are now in navigating the explosion in new options and rules.

Take Your Time Enrollment in the new healthcare exchanges won’t begin until October 2013 at the earliest. Legal requirements and the accompanying fees for disobeying them won’t take effect until January 2014. Washington red tape probably could push those dates out even further into the future. “It’s a complicated bill, and it’s not drafted in a way to facilitate implementation,” says Aaron. “Delays could become inevitable and necessary.” That might suit many business owners just fine.

Advertising Index Effective and Affordable Advertising

11 Abraxus Salt

19 Academy Graphic Communication

35 Belgard Hardscapes

2 Botson Insurance Group

21 Davis Tree Farm & Nursery

31 Gilson Gardens

21 JTO, Inc.

for Green Industry Suppliers

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io September Central Oh 4, 2011 – October page 30

Drainage Clinic

33 Mason Structural Steel

November 9, 2011 Page 17

OLA Annual Meeting November 17, 2011 Page 7

Sales Clinic

For Landscape Professionals

9 Medina Sod Farms

13 O’Reilly Equipment

34 Sohars/RCPW

29 Unilock

27 Valley City Supply

9, 13 VanCuren Tree Service 33 Willoway WDC

December 13, 2011 Page 13

How To Set Goals For New Employees Page 32

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

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

The Growing Concern x December 2012 x 31

Directions

2012 Wrap Up This was a busy year! We offered over 35 events for you to participate in with us. From educational seminars to the Landscape Ohio! Awards Program, OLA meetings and our new Happy Hour events in both Northeast and Central Ohio, certification and the OLA Scholarship Golf Classic, it was hard to find more than a couple of weeks that we didn’t have an OLA event in progress. If you didn’t get involved, you really missed out. Our committees have done a fantastic job of coming up with many new educational opportunities for you. We have continued to offer some of the tried and true seminars and clinics, but have added a number of new ones to keep it fresh and interesting. We have added more networking opportunities with our OLA Happy Hour events. Additionally, we have added a new member benefit! OLA is teaming up with a new national association, the Accredited Snow Contractors Association (ASCA). ASCA will be offering OLA members 20% off of their membership dues and providing OLA with a stipend as well! ASCA was formed because of the national increase in slip and fall liability lawsuits and legislation against contractors performing snow and ice services. This trend has been impacting insurance costs in a negative way. ASCA has compiled best practices for the snow and ice industry and has created certification and company accreditation to legitimize and document the profession. They are working with legislators, other associations and the insurance companies to keep liabilities in check and insurance rates down. It is a tall order of business, but a much needed one. If snow and ice is part of your business, I urge you to take a look at what the ASCA is doing. You can find out more about them at ascaonline.org. If you plan to join, call the OLA office for the promo code that will give you 20% off (OLA members only) when you complete the ASCA online application for membership.

32 x Official Publication of The Ohio Landscape Association

Sandy Munley Executive Director Ohio Landscape Association

At the November OLA meeting, we held our annual meeting where the election of our 2013 board took place. James Arch agreed to do a second term as president so the 2013 board and officers will be:

OFFICERS President— James Arch, ASLA President-Elect— Joe Twardzik, CID Treasurer—Chad Mikin Executive Director & Corporate Secretary—Sandy Munley

DIRECTORS Patrick Beam, RLA Jason Cromley Josh Hayden Chris Meltzer, ASLA Steve Moore Cathy Serafin, ASLA Bryan Taynor Congratulations to our new Board of Directors! I look forward to another exciting year with OLA. Please remember that our membership year is November 1st to October 31st. If you haven’t paid your 2013 dues, be sure to do it right away so that you don’t miss out on all the benefits that OLA has to offer!

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

Avon

Distribution Centers

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

Columbus

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

The Growing Concern x December 2012 x 33

WELCOME NEW MEMBERS !

The Ohio Landscape Association is delighted to welcome the following new members to the association:

REGULAR MEMBERS: Ciani Lawn Care 311 Nautical Way Fairport Harbor, OH 44077 (440) 488-1061 Joe Ciani

The College of Wooster 580 E. Wayne Ave. Wooster, OH 44691 (330) 263-2560 Beau Mastrine, GCM

DeckCreator 12235 York Road, Unit A North Royalton, OH 44133 (216) 798-7114 Fred Haun

We’re “all season” for a reason.

KEW 10945 Chardon Road Chardon, OH 44024 (440) 477-7825 Drew & Gabrielle Krage

Petitti Landscaping 575 Golden Oak Pkwy., Suite G Oakwood Village, OH 44146 (440) 439-1980 John Petitti

ASSOCIATE MEMBER: Buckeye Resources 296 Horseshoe Drive Lagrange, OH 44050 (440) 213-3664 Jason Grimmett

RCPW.COM/SNOW for Parts & Parts Lookup your snow plow parts source

let it snow. 34 x Official Publication of The Ohio Landscape Association

Presorted Standard U.S. Postage Paid Cleveland, OH Permit No. 2280

9238 Broadview Road Broadview Hts., OH 44147-2517

12/12

OLA EDUCATION SERIES

for landscape maintenance

design/build firms

January 22, 2013 8:00 am to 4:30 pm Instructed by

Jim Huston

J.R. Huston Consulting, Inc. Held at

Hilton Garden Inn Dublin, OH

This 1-day computer estimating clinic is designed to help you quickly improve your estimating methods and financial systems...helping you to prosper in any economy! With this clinic, you will: • receive bid evaluation worksheets for calculating crew rates and service rates • prepare your 2013 budget and future annual budgets • learn how to calculate your true costs more accurately and learn what to charge for services and products • learn your break-even point(s) and know “when to say when” • calculate costs specific to your company