Growing Concern
The
F EBRUAR Y 2 0 2 0
A P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E O H I O L A N D S C A P E A S S O C I AT I O N
OLA Member Meet-Up
February 12, 2020 / Wild Eagle Steak & Saloon / SEE BACK COVER
OLA March Meeting: Creating & Living Your Brand March 5, 2020 / St. Michael’s Woodside / PAGE 7
Foreman Training Clinic
March 9, 2020 (Cleveland) / March 10, 2020 (Columbus) / PAGE 12
EASIER, SAFER AND BETTER WITH BOTSON! At Botson Insurance we see beyond insurance to provide you with practical solutions to the problems that face the Green Industry—and we may be able to save you money while doing it.
✓
Lowest General Liability Rates in Ohio up to 50%-80%
✓
Faulty Workmanship Coverage for as little as $425 per year
✓
botsoninsurancegroup.com
(440) 537-2292 cell greg@botsoninsurancegroup.com
Over 160 Green Industry professionals in our program.
GREG BOTSON MORE THAN A TRUSTED ADVISOR
EASIER
Provided expert advice and built strong client relationships over 25 years.
SAFER
Free distracted driving and safety seminars, resources, training and more.
BETTER
Replacement cost coverage on equipment and more flexible driver requirements.
PR ES I DEN T’S COLUM N
HOW DO YOU USE YOUR TIME?
DOMENIC LAURIA Vizmeg Landscape, Inc.
One could argue that the most valuable resource on this planet is something you can never acquire more of and that you can never take back – Time. Even the great Warren Buffet would agree. At an event both he and Bill Gates spoke at last year, he said to Bill, “It’s the only thing (we) can’t buy… I can buy anything I want basically, but I can’t buy time.” Now, I know the financial circumstances of both Buffet and Gates aren’t highly relatable, and most likely we all can’t just run out and purchase anything we want, but I think that is why – when I heard Buffet’s speech – it really stuck with me. After all, there must be some merit to his theories in order for him to be that much more successful than most. As you know from my last article, I spend a lot of time researching and studying what the people I deem successful do in their dayto-day lives. I try to replicate and utilize these tasks in my own life, to one degree or another. After hearing both Buffet and Gates speak in regards to the topic of time management, I feel like it opened up a whole new world for me. Captivated by what they both had to say – enough so that I watched the entirety of their speeches – it led me to research the topic more extensively. (The speech took place at Columbia University and can be easily found on YouTube.) In this instance, Warren educated Gates a bit concerning the value of time, so much that Gates’ take away was, “It’s not a proxy of your seriousness that you’ve filled every minute of your schedule.” Gates, like myself and many other people, likes to schedule his day out from start to finish. In fact, I have read that many successful business owners, CEO’s, entrepreneurs,
high level executives, etc. schedule their days out in 15 and 30 minute increments. Interesting fact, Elon Musk schedules his days out in 5 minute increments! Gates was just like this, scheduling out every part of his days and sticking to it as closely as possible. When Warren showed him his schedule and there was essentially nothing listed in his pocket calendar, he couldn’t believe it. And here is where the big lesson lies. Warren doesn’t let other people use his time. He uses it for himself, and to his benefit. He, like us all, only gets so many minutes in the day, and as he said, it is the one thing we cannot buy more of. “Sitting and thinking may be a much higher priority,” Gates said, reflecting on the lesson taught to him. Now, I have no idea what Elon Musk’s daily schedule looks like. It may include scheduled periods of time for sitting, thinking, or reflecting, but as crazy as it sounds, scheduling his day out in 5 minute increments seems to work for him. Personally, I like to schedule 70% of my day in 15 minute increments. Included in this schedule are the drive times to jobs, meetings, and events. I get a reminder 15 minutes before leaving and will not schedule anything for that 15-30 minute block. continued on page 6 The Growing Concern | February 2020 | 3
TAB LE OF CON TEN TS F E B R UA R Y 2 0 2 0 WWW. OH I OLA N D SCA P E R S. OR G OH I O’ S P R OF E SSI ON A L G REEN I N D U ST R Y A SSOCI AT I O N OHIO LANDSCAPE ASSOCIATION 9240 Broadview Road Broadview Heights, Ohio 44147 Phone: 440.717.0002, or 1.800.335.6521 Fax: 440.717.0004 Web: www.ohiolandscapers.org and www.myohiolandscape.com DESIGNER / EDITOR Rick Doll, Jr. REGULAR WRITERS Adam Capiccioni, Ohio CAT Michael J. Donnellan, King Financial, Inc. Jim Funai, LIC, Cuyahoga Community College Shelly Funai, Stan Hywet Hall and Gardens Sandy Munley, Ohio Landscape Association Bobbie Schwartz, FAPLD, Bobbie’s Green Thumb COVER: Landscape Ohio! Merit Award winner, in the category of Water Features, Suncrest Gardens.
FEATURES
3 8 14 18 22 26 30 31 31
PRESIDENT’S COLUMN
How Do You Use Your Time?
PERENNIAL FOCUS
Some Things Never Change: The Design Principles
FISCAL FITNESS
IRA and Retirement Plan Limits for 2020
FOR SAFETY SAKE
ADVERTISING INFORMATION Submission deadline: 10th of the month, prior to the month of publication. For advertising rates and ad specs, please call 440.717.0002, 1.800.335.6521, or email Rick Doll Jr. at rick@ohiolandscapers.org. DISCLAIMER The Ohio Landscape Association, its board of directors, staff and the editor of The Growing Concern neither endorse any product(s) or attests 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 Domenic Lauria
OLA STAFF Executive Director Sandy Munley
Abies Concolor: Concolor Fir
President – Elect Dr. James Funai, PhD.
FEATURE ARTICLE
Treasurer Brian Maurer, LIC
Communications & Events Manager Rick Doll, Jr.
Preventing Backovers
PLANT OF THE MONTH
Employee Training: How Skill Training Plays into Worker Retention
DIRECTIONS WELCOME NEW MEMBERS ADVERTISING INDEX
4 | Official Publication of The Ohio Landscape Association
Immediate Past President Adam Capiccioni DIRECTORS Keith Clapper Ryan Drake Stephanie Gray, LIC Cameron Maneri Rob Morel Joshua Way
C AL ENDAR OF EVEN TS UPCO M I N G OLA MEETINGS , EDUC AT I ON SE MI N A R S, A N D OT H E R G R E E N I N D UST R Y EV ENT S
FEBRUARY
MARCH cont...
JULY
FEBRUARY 12, 2020 OLA MEMBER MEET-UP
MARCH 26, 2020 23rd ANNUAL LANDSCAPE OHIO! AWARDS GALA
DATE - TBD PLANT I.D. CLINIC
Come out to the Wild Eagle Steak & Saloon (5001 Royalton Rd., Broadview Heights, OH) for drinks, networking and fun. 5pm - 8pm.
MARCH MARCH 5 2020 OLA MEETING: CREATING AND LIVING YOUR BRAND Jason Cromley, Co-owner of Hidden Creek Landscaping, discusses how Hidden Creek attained their vision, while offering advice on how to not settle when it comes to creating and living your brand. See page 7 for more information.
MARCH 9, 2020 (NE Ohio) FOREMAN TRAINING Foremen walk a fine line when working side by side with employees: having to direct, motivate and critique them. This seminar will train them how to effectively manage tight deadlines, tight margins and increase customer satisfaction. Held at Indiana Wesleyan University in Independence, OH. Sponsored by Wolf Creek Company. See page 12 for more information.
MARCH 10, 2020 (Central Ohio) FOREMAN TRAINING Foremen walk a fine line when working side by side with employees: having to direct, motivate and critique them. This seminar will train them how to effectively manage tight deadlines, tight margins and increase customer satisfaction. Hosted and sponsored by Wolf Creek Company in Columbus, OH. See page 12 for more information.
Join Ohio’s landscape community for an elegant, fun-filled evening of celebrating as we reveal the 2019 Landscape Ohio! Award winners. This year, we will be making space available to those who have not entered the awards portion of the program. This is a great opportunity for those of you who have been contemplating entering, but want to know more about the program, or for those of you just looking to spend an elegant night out with industry leaders See page 20 for more information.
This clinic is a hands-on training opportunity for you and your crews covering the basics of Plant ID for plants typically used in Ohio. Many of the plants that will be covered are on the plant list for the Landscape Industry Certified Technician’s Test. Sponsored by Davis Tree Farm & Nursery. Registration opens in spring of 2020.
AUGUST AUGUST 6 OLA SCHOLARSHIP GOLF CLASSIC
Safety is the key to running a successful company. This class features sessions on proper equipment utilization & operation, basic first aid, safe hauling and loading procedures, and more. More information to come. See page 29 for more information.
Join us at Bob-O-Link Golf Club in Columbia Station for the OLA Scholarship Golf Classic! Proceeds from this event benefit our OLA Scholarship Fund. Our golf outing was created to help generate funding for our scholarship program, targeting qualified students interested in a vocation within the green industry. Call the OLA at 800-335-6521 for sponsorship opportunities. Registration opens in spring of 2020.
APRIL 16. 2020 OLA CENTRAL OHIO MEETING
AUGUST 20 SNOW & ICE CLINIC (NE Ohio)
Mike Rorie, CEO of GIS Dynamics – former owner of GroundMasters – will be discussing the importance of creating, maintaining, and living the vision of a successful landscape company. More information to come.
Join us at St. Michael’s Woodside in Broadview Heights for our annual Snow & Ice Management Clinic, featuring Industry Experts, our Mini Trade Show, and more. Registration and Sponsorship Opportunities are available. Registration opens in spring/summer of 2020.
APRIL APRIL 8. 2020 SPRING TRAINING
The Growing Concern | February 2020 | 5
PR ES I DEN T’S COLUM N continued from page 3 The reason I only schedule 70% of my day is simple. Working in this profession, it seems like there are more variables that I am unable to control than ones I can. Things pop up every day – sometime every hour – so I need to be able to adapt and adjust. Having 30% of my day set aside for such variances is something that works well for me. Implementing this type of schedule has allowed me to do a lot more throughout my day, and therefore has led to an increase in my productivity. Another benefit I’ve found in scheduling my time in this manner is that I make sure time is set aside for those tasks I really want to focus on. Prior to this, I’d be trying to focus on a task, but would have so many other things going on in my head that I found myself constantly distracted, thus not using my time as effectively as possible. Now that all of those other tasks are scheduled, it’s easy for me to let them rest until their scheduled time, allowing me to focus on the task at hand. This is what has worked for me, but just like how different Buffet and Gates are, so are we all. Knowing my wife, if I were to show her my daily schedule it would just stress her out – but her mind works so differently than mine. Warren Buffet would probably look at my schedule and remark that everything I do is completely wrong. Elon Musk would probably look at it and see wasted time. And, so on… In the end, it all comes down to the individual. You have to take the time to figure out what works best for you, even if it comes with some trial and error. And then, when you find what works for you, the key is to stick with it and be disciplined. Ah, discipline. Yet another key word when it comes to being successful with time management. It may go without saying – and sorry if I’m pointing out the obvious – but if you are going to schedule your days out, you need to stay rigid and committed to that schedule. We all have tasks that need to be done, but are the ones we happily put off, or skip, because they are the ones we’re in strong opposition to performing. For me, once I started to schedule these “least favorite” tasks onto my calendar, it was the first thing I would try to move around in my schedule because, the fact of the matter is, I still didn’t want to do them. I quickly realized that if I wasn’t going to use the schedule I created, then I was really missing the whole point. You must
6 | Official Publication of The Ohio Landscape Association
FOR SALE
GREAT OPPORTUNITY FOR A COMPANY TO EXPAND OPERATIONS OR AN INDIVIDUAL TO ENTER A SIGNIFICANT MARKET. • Established Underground Sprinkler System and Outdoor Lighting business in Cleveland and many surrounding neighborhoods. Owner retiring after 45+ years. • Loyal and stable customer base- residential and commercial. 650+ customers with tremendous potential to increase customers base if buyer does work in the green industry already such as landscaping, snowplowing, etc. • Services include Spring Tune-Ups, service work, installations and winterizations. Lighting includes cleaning lenses and fixtures, bulb/LED upgrade work and installations.
THIS IS AN EXCELLENT SMALLER COMPANY WITH APPROX. $340K AVERAGE REVENUE THAT IS POISED TO GROW. OWNER IS WILLING TO HELP WITH TRANSITION. PLEASE E-MAIL TO
WATERDAYLITESNITE@ YAHOO.COM WITH ANY QUESTIONS OR REQUESTS.
stay disciplined to your calendar and do what you have written in, even if you don’t necessarily want to. It is pointless to put something on a schedule to accomplish and then keep moving it so it still never gets done. There is a saying about “eating the frog first,” and even though it sounds strange it is such a great statement. Nobody wants to eat a frog, but if it has to be done, schedule it to be one of the first things you do and get your most dreaded task out of the way first. After that, everything else will seem much easier to accomplish. There are 1,440 minutes in each day. How you choose to use this resource will dictate your future. As I’ve hopefully helped illustrate, there are many different ways to best utilize your time, and no one way will work for everyone. Your job is to figure out what works for you. What is something that you have wanted to do/accomplish in life that you constantly don’t have “time” for? How can you use time management principles to better schedule your days, and find the time to accomplish this task? How can you best use YOUR time to benefit YOU?
OLA MEETINGS SERIES
EVENT INFORMATION
DATE & LOCATION MARCH 5, 2020 ST. MICHAEL’S WOODSIDE 5025 EAST MILL ROAD BROADVIEW HEIGHTS, OH AGENDA REGISTRATION / NETWORKING FOOD / CASH BAR 6:00 PM TO 7:00 PM GENERAL BUSINESS 7:00 PM TO 7:30 PM PROGRAM 7:30 PM TO 9:00 PM COST TO ATTEND MEMBERS: NO CHARGE NON MEMBERS: $30 REGISTER TO ATTEND BY FEBRUARY 27, 2020
SPONSORED BY GOLD SPONSORS
OLA MARCH MEETING
Creating & Living Your Brand From the way its offices are designed, to the appearance of their personnel, vehicles, and equipment, Hidden Creek Landscaping is undoubtedly an exceptionally well-branded company. In going above and beyond other companies in creating a professional brand, their work has become synonymous with quality and creativity. Join us March 5, 2020 as Jason Cromley, co-owner of Hidden Creek Landscaping, discusses how Hidden Creek attained their vision, while offering advice on how to NOT settle when it comes to creating yours. Among other topics, Jason will cover the benefits of consulting professional help (e.g. photographers, marketing personnel, designers), along with the importance of fostering progressive partnerships with interior designers, custom builders, custom pool installers, etc.
GUEST SPEAKER
JASON CROMLEY, CO-OWNER HIDDEN CREEK LANDSCAPING With a formal education in construction, landscape design, and horticulture from The Ohio State University, Jason has identified the essential components and most effective methods required to create new and exciting outdoor enhancements. Since co-founding Hidden Creek Landscaping in 1998, he has continually looked to the future with a positive attitude towards life, and uses that same mentality to exceed the expectations of Hidden Creek’s ever-growing client base. Jason is more than confident that Hidden Creek Landscaping is on track to fulfill their mission statement of creating a higher quality of life for both their clients and their team.
ABOUT HIDDEN CREEK Hidden Creek Landscaping Inc. was founded in 1998 by Matt Seiler and Jason Cromley, based on a mutual respect for hard work and creativity. With a shared vision of how projects should be installed – and how people should be treated – a business relationship was formed based on solid morals and friendship. Through dedication and innovation in all aspects of landscaping,
SILVER SPONSORS EMMETT EQUIPMENT CO. KURTZ BROS., INC
Hidden Creek has demonstrated impressive growth while maintaining personal relationships with their business contacts. Their goal is to be recognized amongst peers and clients as the finest landscape design company in Central Ohio.
BRONZE SPONSORS DAVIS TREE FARM & NURSERY HEARTLAND SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES FOR THIS YEAR’S MEETING SCHEDULE ARE NOW AVAILABLE. CALL 440.717.0002 FOR INFO.
1.5 CEU’S
REGISTER ONLINE AT OHIOLANDSCAPERS.ORG/MEETINGS/MARCH.HTML
PEREN N I AL FOCUS
BOBBIE SCHWARTZ, FAPLD Bobbie’s Green Thumb This reconfigured concrete patio is serene, with linear patterns, material textures & simple plantings.
SOME THINGS NEVER CHANGE THE DESIGN PRINCIPLES
A few months ago, I was discussing the changes in perennial garden design. There are, however, some things that are eternal verities, i.e. The Design Principles. Nevertheless, design is not static. Creative designers find ways to make even the usual unusual. Let’s start with unity. The easiest way to create a unified design is by picking a theme. The most common is rectilinear. If rectilinear is set on a ninety-degree angle, we have diagonal. Then there is curvilinear. And, if rectilinear and curvilinear are combined, we have arc and tangent. Rectilinear design can be boring, though a good friend and colleague in California redesigned a deck and patio that changed an outdated wooden porch and concrete slab patio into a novel and beautiful landscape with an oriental theme, as requested by the client.
8 | Official Publication of The Ohio Landscape Association
In the landscape above, the principle of repetition is demonstrated quite well. When we think about plantings, the idea is the same but the word rhythm is the one used to describe it. This rhythm is often achieved with repetition of color throughout a space in order to move the eye comfortably and unify the space. This can be done in a small space with one color, but with different flower types – or periodically – repeating a specific perennial in a larger space, or creating a border of the same plant. continued on page 10
OWNERS,OWNERS, DESIGNERS & DECISION MAKERS… DON’T MISS THEMISS THE DESIGNERS & DECISION MAKERS… DON’T
CASCC AD I GDHETLI N AE S CL A I GGH T I N G
Landscape Lighting Landscape Lighting Expo & Open House Expo & Open House Over 15 manufacturers! The largest in the area! Over 15 manufacturers! Thelighting largest show lighting show in the area!
Discover what’s new, what’s cool, and cool, what’s next for 2019! Discover what’s new, what’s and what’s next for 2019!
Discover what’s new in lighting and controls for 2020!
•
> Meet with manufacturer representatives! > Meet with manufacturer representatives! • Meet with manufacturer representatives > Enjoy free breakfast and lunch! • > Enjoy Enjoyfree freebreakfast breakfastand andlunch! lunch Raffles, giveaways, and more! NEW this>year – featuring 4 training sessions (see website for more details) > Raffles, giveaways, and more!
March 4, March 2019. Holiday InnHoliday Express & Suites, Arlington E.,Hall Akron, Ohio March 2020. Chenoweth Golf & Banquet – Akron, OH 4, 9, 2019. Inn Express898 & Suites, 898Ridge Arlington Ridge E., Akron, Ohio
Register bybyMarch 2 at cascadelighting.com Register onlineonline byonline February 25 at cascadelighting.com Register February 25 at cascadelighting.com
111918
111918
(Limit two attendees pertwo company please.) (Limit attendees per company please.)
cascadelighting.com 800.758.6359 cascadelighting.com 800.758.6359 OLA_OpenHouse_201812.indd 1 OLA_OpenHouse_201812.indd 1
12/10/18 12:45 PM 12/10/18 12:45 PM
The Growing Concern | February 2020 | 9
P EREN N I AL FOCU S continued from page 8
This border of Myosotis sylvatica is a serendipity, creating a sea of blue.
The beauty of this composition is in the contrast of foliage forms and textures.
While some repetition is a good thing, too much of anything becomes boring. Therefore, we also need variety. Because plants provide us with a plethora of heights, colors, bloom types, and foliar textures and forms, we can choose which we want to use to achieve our goal of variety. Balance is an interesting concept. As humans, we depend on it to keep us from falling. Without balance in a landscape or garden, we feel that something is wrong. Symmetrical balance is easy to achieve. What we design for one side of an area we replicate on the other side although inversely if there is more than one element. We often see symmetrical balance in formal designs. I often find that asymmetrical balance is more interesting because it requires more time to mentally assimilate. Every garden needs a focal point. There can be more than one as long as they are far enough apart to prevent competing with each other. The most commonly used focal points are birdbaths, colorful containers, benches, and items of sculpture. Don’t forget, however, that a spectacular plant can be a focal point. Last, but not least, is the principle of scale. When a landscape element is not in scale, it seems as though the scene is awry. Sometimes, the problem is that an element is too large or too small. Other times, the problem is a missing layer.
A copper-basin birdbath is a focal point for this section of lengthy fence bed.
Some of this discussion may seem elementary to those of you who have been designing for many years but perhaps this refresher may stimulate some new ideas for you. I hope so.
Bobbie Schwartz, FAPLD, owner of Bobbie’s Green Thumb in Shaker Hts., Ohio, is a landscape designer, consultant, freelance 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’s new book, Garden Renovation: Transform Your Yard into the Take away the tall urn and pedestal and this scene is perfectly in scale.
10 | Official Publication of The Ohio Landscape Association
Garden of Your Dreams, was published in November 2017 by Timber Press.
Since 1986, VanCuren Tree Services has been Northeast Ohio’s complete tree care specialist. We provide comprehensive services for any residential, commercial, or utility tree care need. The tree professionals at VanCuren Tree Services have helped home and business owners throughout Greater Cleveland and Northeast Ohio maintain the beauty, vitality, and safety of their trees. We are proud to offer a full range of tree care services, from tree and stump removal to storm damage clean up to utility work and beyond.
To find out more about what VanCuren has to offer, visit our website at www.vancurentreecare.com, or call us at 440.338.5005 today for a free consultation. • Complete Tree Maintenance Programs
• 75’ Bucket Trucks
• Certified Arborists on Staff
• Deep Root Fertilization
• Tree Removal
• 24-Hour Emergency Service
• Tree Trimming
• Stump Grinding
• Land Clearing
• Tree Moving
• 178’ 50 Ton Crane SALES REPRESENTATIVES: Michael Sowul, Certified Arborist James DiRosa, Certified Arborist David R. Van Curen
PHONE: 440.338.5005 FAX: 440.564.9319
Your Complete Tree Care Specialists www.vancurentreecare.com
OLA EDUCATION SERIES
COURSE INFO MARCH 9, 2020 INDIANA WESLEYAN UNIVERSITY 4100 ROCKSIDE ROAD INDEPENDENCE, OH 44131 MARCH 10, 2020 WOLF CREEK COMPANY 6700B HUNTLEY ROAD COLUMBUS, OHIO 43229 AGENDA REGISTRATION / BREAKFAST 8:00AM - 8:30AM CLINIC 8:30AM - 4:30PM LUNCH 11:30AM - 12:15PM COST MEMBERS BEFORE 02/24/20 - $159 AFTER 02/24/20 - $189
Foreman Training
Production and maintenance landscape foremen have unique needs as they have to wear two hats: a worker and a leader. Foremen have to walk the fine line in working side by side with the employee and having to direct, motivate and critique at the same time. Managing former peers and friends can be especially difficult, dealing with problems and obstacles can take skills that can only be developed by stepping out of the work environment for a few days, learning best practices, applying it in a learning environment through role play, and then going back and applying it on the job. In this dynamic seminar, foremen will learn:
• The central role of the “worker-leader” • How to supervise friends, peers, and former equals • How to communicate with their superiors • How to generate accountability from their team • How to motivate and delegate at the same time
• How to implement and follow work schedules • How to budget and complete jobs on time • How to manage problem behavior • How to produce client focused work • And more....
INSTRUCTED BY
ARMANDO ACTIS / PROFESSOR Professor Actis provides management, inside sales & public relation training based on his education & experience in the landscaping & construction industry at Rendel’s Inc, where he is currently the Training & Project Manager for the Joliet Branch. He provides end user operation, application and maintenance training – training anyone from the casual user to the professionals in OSHA, safe & correct usage of landscaping and construction equipment He was Equipment Manager and judge for ILCA’s (Illinois Landscape Contractors Association) Certified Landscape Technician exams at Joliet Junior College.
NON MEMBERS BEFORE 02/24/20 - $189 AFTER 02/24/20 - $219 SPONSORED BY
2020 FOREMAN TRAINING / REGISTRATION CLOSES 03/02/20 Company Contact Address City State Phone (______)
Zip
Fax (______) Email
NAME OF ATTENDEE (S)
FEE
$
$
$
TOTAL DUE
$
Check No. (Enclosed)
Charge to my:
Acct. No.
Name on Card
Exp. Date
6
Security Code
Signature
Billing Address + Zipcode for Card CEU’S
MasterCard Visa AMEX Discover
REGISTER ONLINE AT OHIOLANDSCAPERS.ORG/EDUCATION/FOREMANTRAINING.HTML
THINK
! g n i r p S PRE-PULLSÂ DELIVERY ONLINE ORDERING PLANT SOURCING
AVON | BROADVIEW | HILLIARD WWW.PREMIERPLANTSOLUTIONS.COM
F I SCAL FI TN ESS
MICHAEL J. DONNELLAN King Financial, Inc.
IRA AND RETIREMENT PLAN LIMITS FOR 2020 Are you ready for a lot of numbers? Here are the new contribution and income limits for retirement plans this year.
IRA CONTRIBUTION LIMITS
The maximum amount you can contribute to a traditional IRA or a Roth IRA in 2020 is $6,000 (or 100% of your earned income, if less), unchanged from 2019. The maximum catch-up contribution for those age 50 or older remains at $1,000. You can contribute to both a traditional IRA and a Roth IRA in 2020, but your total contributions can’t exceed these annual limits.
TRADITIONAL IRA INCOME LIMITS If you are not covered by an employer retirement plan, your contributions to a traditional IRA are generally fully tax deductible. For those who are covered by an employer plan, the income limits for determining the deductibility of traditional IRA contributions in 2020 have increased. If
14 | Official Publication of The Ohio Landscape Association
your filing status is single or head of household, you can fully deduct your IRA contribution up to $6,000 ($7,000 if you are age 50 or older) in 2020 if your modified adjusted gross income (MAGI) is $65,000 or less (up from $64,000 in 2019). If you’re married and filing a joint return, you can fully deduct up to $6,000 ($7,000 if you are age 50 or older) in 2020 if your MAGI is $104,000 or less (up from $103,000 in 2019). If you’re not covered by an employer plan but your spouse is, and you file a joint return, your deduction is limited if your MAGI is $196,000 to $206,000 (up from $193,000 to $203,000 in 2019), and eliminated if your MAGI exceeds $206,000 (up from $203,000 in 2019). continued on page 16
15 6 5 6 c h i l l i c o t h e r o a d chagrin falls | OH | 44022
( 4 4 0 ) 3 3 8 - 8 10 0 a r t fo r m n u r s e r i e s .c o m The Growing Concern | February 2020 | 15
F I SCAL FI TN ESS continued from page 14
Roth IRA Income Limits The income limits for determining how much you can contribute to a Roth IRA have also increased for 2020. If your filing status is single or head of household, you can contribute the full $6,000 ($7,000 if you are age 50 or older) to a Roth IRA if your MAGI is $124,000 or less (up from $122,000 in 2019). And if you’re married and filing a joint return, you can make a full contribution if your MAGI is $196,000 or less (up from $193,000 in 2019). (Again, contributions can’t exceed 100% of your earned income.)
Employer Retirement Plans Most of the significant employer retirement plan limits for 2020 have also increased. The maximum amount you can contribute (your “elective deferrals”) to a 401(k) plan is $19,500 in 2020 (up from $19,000 in 2019). This limit also applies to 403(b) and 457(b) plans, as well as the Federal Thrift Plan. If you’re age 50 or older, you can also make catch-up contributions of up to $6,500 to these plans in 2020 (up from $6,000 in 2019). (Special catch-up limits apply to certain participants in 403(b) and 457(b) plans.) If you participate in more than one retirement plan, your total elective deferrals can’t exceed the annual limit ($19,500 in 2020 plus any applicable catch-up contributions). Deferrals to 401(k) plans, 403(b) plans, and SIMPLE plans are included in this aggregate limit, but deferrals to Section 457(b) plans are not. For example, if you participate in both a 403(b) plan and a 457(b) plan, you can defer the full dollar limit to each plan — a total of $39,000 in 2020 (plus any catch-up contributions). The amount you can contribute to a SIMPLE IRA or SIMPLE 401(k) is $13,500 in 2020 (up from $13,000 in 2019), and the
16 | Official Publication of The Ohio Landscape Association
catch-up limit for those age 50 or older remains at $3,000. (Note: Contributions can’t exceed 100% of your income.)
The maximum amount that can be allocated to your account in a defined contribution plan (for example, a 401(k) plan or profitsharing plan) in 2020 is $57,000 (up from $56,000 in 2019) plus age 50 catch-up contributions. (This includes both your contributions and your employer’s contributions. Special rules apply if your employer sponsors more than one retirement plan.) Finally, the maximum amount of compensation that can be taken into account in determining benefits for most plans in 2020 is $285,000 (up from $280,000 in 2019), and the dollar threshold for determining highly compensated employees (when 2020 is the look-back year) is $130,000 (up from $125,000 when 2019 is the look-back year). Michael J. Donnellan is President of King Financial, Inc. specializing in stock selection and retirement planning. Feel free to contact him with any questions or comments at the M3 Wealth Management office at 17601 W. 130th Street – Suite 1 in North Royalton, Ohio. Phone number (440) 652-6370 Email: donnellan@m3wealthmanagement.com. Securities and advisory services offered through L.M. Kohn & Company, Registered Broker/Dealer, Member FINRA/SIPC/MSRB, 10151 Carver Rd. Suite 100 – Cincinnati, Ohio 45242, (800) 478-0788 * King Financial Inc. does not provide legal or tax advice, consult an attorney or tax professional regarding your specific situation. The information herein is general and educational in nature and should not be considered legal or tax advice. ** Scenarios illustrated are hypothetical in nature, results may vary. Past performance is not indicative of future results.
Flagstone Wallstone Outcropping Boulders Chunks Step Treads
(Sawn, Snapped, Irregular)
Travertine
REAL STONE
Natural Stone Veneer Barnstone Decorative Gravel
REAL STYLE
ADDRESS: 9718 AVON LAKE RD, LODI, OH 44254 PHONE: (330) 948-1006 EMAIL: DOUG.FRANKBROS@GMAIL.COM W W W . F R A N K B R O T H E R S . C O M
1-866-666-SALT (7258) DRY BULK SALT & BAGGED MATERIAL 24 hour / 7 days a week availability 10-25 ton dry salt—same day delivery pick up of bulk salt every order weighed and ticketed state
- approved scale / delivery of bagged salt or deicing material
pickup
volume discounts available we supply clearlane™ enhanced deicer by cargill a sodium and magnesium blend
-
bagged deicing chemicals
DOME LOCATION 11444 Brookpark Rd • Brooklyn, OH, 44130
ROYALTON SUPPLY LOCATION 11528 Royalton Rd, North Royalton, OH 44133
The Growing Concern | February 2020 | 17
F OR SAFETY SAK E
PREVENTING BACKOVERS A backover incident occurs when a backing vehicle strikes a worker who is standing, walking, or kneeling behind the vehicle. While these incidents ar nearly 100 percent preventable, The United States Department of Transportation reports 17,000 injuries each year from backovers and over 200 deaths.
HOW DO BACKOVER INCIDENTS OCCUR?
WHAT CAN BE DONE TO PREVENT THEM?
Backover accidents can happen for a variety of reasons. Drivers may not be able to see a worker in their blind spot. Workers may not hear backup alarms because of other worksite noises or because the alarms are not functioning. A spotter assisting one truck may not see another truck behind him. Workers riding on vehicles may fall off and get backed over. Drivers may assume that the area is clear and not look in the direction of travel. Sometimes, it is unclear why a worker was in the path of a backing vehicle. A combination of factors can also lead to backover incidents.
Many solutions exist to prevent backover incidents. Drivers can use a spotter to help them back up their vehicles. Video cameras with in-vehicle display monitors can give drivers a view of what is behind them. Proximity detection devices, such as radar and sonar, can alert drivers to objects that are behind them. Tag-based systems can inform drivers when other employees are behind the vehicle and can alert employees when they walk near a vehicle equipped to communicate with the tag worn by the employee. On some work sites, employers can create internal traffic control plans, which tell the drivers
18 | Official Publication of The Ohio Landscape Association
where to drive and can reduce the need to back up. In some cases, internal traffic control plans can also be used to separate employees on foot from operating equipment.
BUYANSKY BROTHERS
Spotter: Spotters are a proven method of protecting employees on foot behind vehicles with an obstructed view, but spotters themselves can be at risk for injury or even death. Employers can implement the following actions to help keep spotters safe:
Dyed Black & Brown Mulch Screened Topsoil Double Shred Organic Bark Mulch * Volume price discounts available
• Ensure that spotters and drivers agree on hand signals before backing up. • Instruct spotters to always maintain visual contact with the driver while the vehicle is backing. • Instruct drivers to stop backing immediately if they lose sight of the spotter. • Do not give spotters additional duties while they are acting as spotters. • Instruct spotters not to use personal mobile phones, personal headphones, or other items which could pose a distraction during spotting activities. • Provide spotters with high-visibility clothing, especially during night operations. Cameras: Most vehicles (and some types of mobile equipment) can accommodate a camera that provides operators with a view to the rear. Some vehicles come equipped with cameras or may be offered with them as optional equipment. Camera systems can also be purchased as after-market equipment for vehicles.
Mon – Fri 8am – 5pm Saturday 8am – 12pm 9400 Broadview Rd. Broadview Heights, OH
(216) 524-3100
The Landscape Materials You Need, From a Name You Can Trust MATERIALS •
Black, Brown, Red Mulches
•
Natural Organic Bark Mulch
•
Screened Topsoil
•
Leaf Humus
•
Limestone and Wash Gravels
•
Recycled Concrete
•
Aggregates
•
Granite and Sandstone
•
Boulders
•
Seed & Straw
BUYANSKYMATERIALS.COM
Viewing screens may be dash-mounted but must not block the driver’s view out the windshield. Some sites may require more rugged cameras. Determining where to mount a camera for maximum effectiveness may be difficult, especially on large vehicles. For example, dump trucks may require two or three cameras to monitor the blind spots on the front, rear, and side of the vehicle. Proximity Detection Systems: Radar and ultrasonic technology both are used in backing safety systems. A radar system transmits a signal, which is bounced off an object. The signal is then received by a receiver. These systems alert the driver with a visual and/or audio warning. These systems must be positioned so that they won’t detect harmless objects, such as the concrete slab of a driveway, which can interfere with the detection of an object or person behind the vehicle or mobile equipment. Also, the composition of an object can affect detection, with some materials being virtually invisible to radar. Like cameras, this equipment can be mounted on most vehicles and may be an option from continued on page 21 some manufacturers. The Growing Concern | February 2020 | 19
LANDSCAPE OHIO! AWARDS GALA
EVENT INFO THURSDAY, MARCH 26, 2020 WINDOWS ON THE RIVER 2000 SYCAMORE ST, CLEVELAND, OH 44113 AGENDA REGISTRATION/COCKTAILS 5:30PM - 6:45PM DINNER 6:45PM - 7:30PM PROGRAM 7:45PM - 10:00PM COST MEMBER: $75 PER PERSON * Includes champagne toast, dinner and awards show. CASH BAR.
MEMBERS ONLY EVENT
* Members in attendance may bring non-member guest
LANDSCAPE ENHANCEMENT AWARDS GALA
The Landscape Ohio! Awards Program is an annual Landscape competition, created by the Ohio Landscape Association, in effort to increase awareness of quality landscaping and how it improves our environment. In conjunction with this program, the OLA hosts a prestigious Awards Gala to recognize our designers, installers, and property owners. The 2020 gala will be held in the breathtaking Bridge View Room, at Windows on the River, in the heart of Downtown Cleveland. It is a semi-formal event inclusive of a cocktail hour, dinner buffet and awards presentation. It is also an excellent chance for industry professionals to get dressed up and celebrate the work being done by their teams and their peers. This year, the OLA is happy to announce that we will be able to offer a limited number of tickets to those who did not enter this year’s competition. This is a great opportunity for those of you who have been contemplating entering, but want to know more about the program, or for those of you just looking to spend an elegant night out with industry leaders and get inspired for spring.
2019 MAJOR EVENT SPONSORS
The following companies have provided instructors, equipment and/or training materials to make this course possible:
SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES * Opportunities to sponsor this year’s event are still available and we are always happy to accept the donation of door prizes. For more information, please contact the OLA office at 440.717.0002.
2019 CATEGORY SPONSORS
Alvord’s Yard & Garden, Bedford Glens Garden Ctr., Belgard Hardscapes, Bigfoot Landscape Supply, Consumer Builders Supply Co., Davis Tree Farm & Nursery, Great Big Home and Garden Show, Heartland, Klyn Nurseries Inc., Kurtz Bros., Inc., Lake County Nursery, Premier Plant Solutions, SIMA, Unilock Ohio Inc., Valley City Supply, Wolf Creek Company.
Cancellations made 14 days prior to the event date will be subject to a 30% cancellation fee. NO refunds will be issued for cancellations 13 or less prior to the event, no shows, or cancellations on the day of the event. If, for any reason, the event is cancelled, attendees will be notified, and fees refunded in full.
2020 LANDSCAPE OHIO AWARDS DINNER GALA / REGISTRATION CLOSES 03/12/20 Company Contact Address City State Phone (______)
Zip
Fax (______) Email
NAME OF ATTENDEE (S)
FEE
$
$
$
$
TOTAL DUE Check No. (Enclosed)
Charge to my:
Acct. No.
Name on Card
Exp. Date
MasterCard Visa AMEX Discover Security Code
Signature
Billing Address + Zipcode for Card
REGISTER ONLINE AT OHIOLANDSCAPERS.ORG/LANDSCAPEOHIOAWARDS.HTML
FOR SAFETY SAKE
REPAIRS - SALES - PARTS OUTDOOR POWER EQUIPMENT Most makes and models
Al Pniewski & his son, Allen Jr., look forward to serving your lawn equipment needs in their new location!
12126 York Rd., Unit A, North Royalton, OH 44133 440.230.3807
w w w. A 1 p o w e r. u s Monday - Friday 7:30am - 5:00pm, or By Appointment Large selection of new machines year round continued from page 19 Ultrasonic systems, such as sonar, emit bursts of ultrasonic waves in a frequency above the hearing threshold of humans. When the waves strike an object, they generate echoes used to determine the distance to the object. These systems alert the driver with a visual and/or audio warning. Tag-based Systems: Another type of proximity detection system is an electromagnetic field-based system, which is a type of tag-based system. This system consists of electromagnetic field generators and field detecting devices. One electromagnetic fieldbased system uses electromagnetic field generators installed on a vehicle and electronic sensing devices (a tag) worn by persons working near the vehicle. Another electromagnetic field-based system uses field generators worn by persons working near the vehicle, with the sensing devices installed on the vehicle. These electromagnetic field-based systems can be programmed to warn affected workers, stop the vehicle, or both, when workers get within the predefined danger zone of the vehicle. Internal Traffic Control Plans: An internal traffic control plan (ITCP) is another method used to address backover hazards. These are plans that project managers can use to coordinate the flow of moving equipment, workers, and vehicles at a worksite
to minimize or eliminate vehicles and employees from crossing paths. These plans can significantly reduce, or possibly eliminate, the need for vehicles to back up on a site. Training: Training is perhaps the most obvious tool one can use to prevent backover incidents. Blind spots behind and around vehicles are not immediately obvious to employees on foot. By training employees on where those blind spots are and how to avoid being in them, employers can prevent some backover incidents. One component of this training can include putting employees who will be working around vehicles in the driver’s seat to get a feel for where the blind spots are and what, exactly, the drivers can see. The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) has several blind spot diagrams that can help explain what drivers of various large trucks can see. This article was compiled using information acquired via the Safety & Health Topics section of the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) website, located at https://www.osha.gov/ SLTC/text_index.html along with information provided by Rear View Safety, located at https://www.rearviewsafety.com. The Growing Concern | February 2020 | 21
PL ANT OF TH E M ON TH
JIM FUNAI, LIC Cuyahoga Community College Abies Concolor: Concolor Fir
SHELLEY FUNAI, LIC Stan Hywet Hall and Gardens
ABIES CONCOLOR CONCOLOR FIR
A while back, we wrote an article suggesting it was time to abandon the Blue Spruce (Picea pungens) – save for certain cultivars – due to an outbreak of various tree killing diseases in Ohio. Hopefully by now, we have all learned the lessons of Ash, Elm, and Chestnut. For those of you who haven’t been following along, that lesson is: When a species-ending pest comes along we DO NOT replace all the dead specimens with one single species. Along those lines, we’ve offered a number of options over the past year or so to replace our beloved Blue Spruce. This month, we offer the option of Abies concolor… with a few caveats! Both the Blue Spruce and Concolor Fir are native to similar parts of the American West – typically places of higher elevation, with dry/gravely soils, that boast low humidity and cool summers. As most of you know, Ohio isn’t one of those places. Because of this, Blue Spruce have really suffered in our state. They just aren’t happy with the climate, which has caused stress. Once disease pathogens took hold of a monoculture of stressed plants, well, it’s a perfect storm that kills mature specimens across an entire state.
It really is critical that we try to understand the native conditions a plant is used to and try to meet as much of those conditions as possible. Back in the day, we all learned and practiced crazy planting soil recipes for plants thinking we could amend our way to the perfect plant. In truth, all that does is delay the inevitable for a tree whose roots will grow far beyond a practical amendment area. It is much more appropriate to identify the soil conditions of each site and pick appropriate plants for that soil type. Dare we say it again… Right plant – right place. continued on page 24
22 | Official Publication of The Ohio Landscape Association
DYED PRODUCTS
TRIPLE GROUND SCREENED NATURAL DARK BROWN BARK GROUND WOOD LEAF HUMUS SCREENED FOR MAXIMUM CONSISTENCY
YARD OPEN MONDAY THROUGH FRIDAY 7 A.M. TO 4:30 P.M. SATURDAY 7 A.M. TO 1 P.M. DELIVERY OR PICK-UP
100% BARK SCREENED MULCH SCREENED FOR MAXIMUM CONSISTENCY
SCREENED LEAF HUMUS
Phone: 440.338.5005 Address: P.O. Box 91, Newbury, OH 44065 Web: vancurentreecare.com
Custom Cut Stone Fabrication Valley City Supply specializes in custom cut limestone and sandstone fabrication and engraving. SAVE on time and labor and let our expert stone fabricators help put the finishing touches on your projects! ◆ Wall & Pillar Caps ◆ Step Treads ◆ Hearth Stones
◆ Pool Coping ◆ Fire Pit Caps ◆ Water Feature Spillways
continued from page 22 Just as we noted that Blue Spruce can still be planted in Ohio – given the right conditions – the same holds true for Concolor Fir. We can’t offer it the exact conditions its accustomed to, but if we focus on the soil, this tree can tolerate our humidity and wetter conditions. We’ll say it again… if your site has heavy clay and high moisture retention it is not the site for Abies concolor. That said, if you are towards the top of a well-draining slope, you may have just the spot. This plant enjoys full-sun, but is just as good in light shade. Being from the mountains, these trees are not afraid of our winters at all – it is the summer heat that stresses them out. For this reason, we’ve found that some light shade, especially in afternoon, is ideal for them to thrive.
Call Today! 330-483-3400 • ValleyCitySupply.com 24 | Official Publication of The Ohio Landscape Association
A feature that makes this Fir the perfect substitute for Blue Spruce is the leaves. Abies concolor’s needles are at least twice as long as those of the Spruce and much softer to the touch. Think of how many times you’ve planted a B&B Spruce and came out of the ordeal with little, red, itchy dots all up your arms. That won’t happen with this Fir. In fact, you’ll likely
PL ANT OF TH E M ON TH
keep hugging and sniffing a Concolor after you’ve planted it. While most firs have a pleasant scent to their leaves, Concolor, in particular, has a citrusy, orange-peel scent that is just wonderful. On more than one occasion, we’ve been caught at botanical gardens – by unsuspecting visitors – removing leaves, taking deep breaths and offering them to each other exclaiming, “Smell this!” It is hands down the best scent of any plant, ever. Out west, this tree can reach 80 to 100 feet, with ease. Champions can reach well over 150 feet tall. The reigning champion, found in Yosemite National Park, is a whopping 217 feet tall. With that in mind, here in Ohio, don’t get your hopes above 70 feet, or so. The “less-than-ideal” planting conditions just won’t have the vigor to give the westerners a run for their money. One of the best places to find giants – outside of their native range – is at Benmore Botanical Garden near Glasgow, Scotland. The climate there is perfect for a number of the plants that love the Pacific Northwest.
offering this plant have selected for the bluer plants already. A beautiful silver/blue hue comes from Abies concolor f. Violacea, which is a naturally occurring form, but rarely found at the nursery. Another beautiful blue that is very hard to come across is the cultivar ‘Candicans’. While not pest free, if Concolor Fir is planted in a welldraining soil and given some relief from the summer heat, it should be a problem-free tree for your customers’ landscape. It is equally useful in a mass as it is as a specimen. As you stray away from ideal soil to a heavier clay, expect to see issues with root rot as the tree ages. In high heat conditions we have seen spider mites cause issues for the plants, but we have only noticed that in southern states. Jim Funai, PhD. is full-time faculty at Cuyahoga Community College, a NALP accredited associate of applied science in hoticulture degree program. He has a PhD in Landscape Engineering and Forestry and is a Licensed Arborist. Shelley Funai is Grounds Manager at Stan Hywett Hall and Gardens in Akron, Ohio, which offers a historic estate designed by Warren
Much like Blue Spruce, you will find varying amounts of “blue” to the Concolor Firs. We’ve found that growers
H. Manning and a beautiful manor house museum. She is Landscape Industry Certified in Ornamental Plant Care.
The Growing Concern | February 2020 | 25
F EATURE ARTI CLE
Into s y a l P g n i n i a r T How Skill n Worker Retentio
It’s important for contractors to recognize that providing educational opportunities, training classes and personal development for all levels of their workforce directly impact the retention of workers. And, there has never been a greater need for skill training in our industry than there is today. This is not earth-shaking news for most contractors, but it should be noted that this need is, in fact, much greater than in years past and doesn’t appear to be fading away anytime soon. Per Forbes.com, any employer who doesn’t focus on learning is going to lose out. According to LinkedIn’s 2018 Workforce Learning Report, a whopping 93% of employees would stay at a company longer if it invested in their careers, meaning development is no longer an optional perk, or reserved for only certain positions. It’s expected. It signals that the employer values their people and are actively interested in their success — not just on the job, but over the long haul. In the landscaping profession, the fear for many companies is that they spend time and money developing people, only to see them take those newly acquired skills to another company. However, training actually can increase employee retention, when the training reinforces the value of the employee. In addition, a welldesigned training program plays a critical part in nurturing their
26 | Official Publication of The Ohio Landscape Association
psyches. Associates want to feel that the job they do is important to the success of the business. Training also allows associates the opportunity to learn new skills and hone existing skills they bring to the job. Being able to grow in a position, feel good about the job they are doing, and seeing a path to upward mobility is important to any individual and their view of the organization. By investing the appropriate training in an employee, they will develop a greater sense of self-worth as they become more valuable to the company. The company, too, will gain specific benefits from training and developing its workers, including increased productivity, reduced employee turnover, and decreased need for constant supervision. continued on page 28
Your Outdoor Living Headquarters 7500 Northfield Road • Walton Hills, OH 44146
(440) 439-1040
www.masonsteel.com
The Growing Concern | February 2020 | 27
F EATURE ARTI CLE continued from page 26
So, why is there so little actual skill training completed by contractors? Good question. Consider a few of these reasons: • • • • • •
The owner just isn’t overly committed to training Most contractors would rather hire experienced workers Contractors are better “doers” than trainers Contractors are not prepared to train Training hasn’t been a priority of past generation of owners “My dad and granddad never trained”
To combat these notions, it’s important to keep in mind that training comes in many forms and “flavors” including: on-the-job training (OJT), personal coaching, class training, and so on. That said, with fewer vocational schools, technical colleges that include construction-based skills, etc., it is even more crucial that contractors take on the responsibility of training their workers on the skills their company needs. So, let’s take a look at the training that might be completed for workers in our industry.
GROUP 1: FRONT-LINE EMPLOYEES/LABORERS • • • • • • • • • • •
Basic task and process of work Safety for personal and team success Tools, equipment, computer, “tablet”, etc. Communication skills Teamwork and team-building Customer service for field workers Team problem-solving Listening How to make decisions How to ask questions How to receive feedback
GROUP 3: SENIOR LEADERS & OWNERS • • • • • • • • • • • •
Professional image Strategic planning and growth opportunities Presentation and facilitation Listening without arguing Building and maintaining teamwork Financial management and reporting Business development Market research and interpretation Client retention and relationships Supplier and vendor relationships Community affairs and public relations Risk management including insurance, injury prevention and crisis management • Employee involvement and incentive programs In closing, employees will always leave organizations for better jobs and more pay, but more often than not they don’t leave a job for merely more pay. Keep your employees interested in continuing their career by using training as a way to demonstrate that the company values them. Training is a bridge that can lead to employee satisfaction and a higher retention rate for your company. One Last Point: While this isn’t as much a tangible strategy, but more of an attitude adjustment: we need to stop thinking of our need to hire skilled, qualified, promising talent as a talent war. It’s not a war. We’re all in this economy and this market together. It’s better to see hiring, engagement and retention not as a way to win a war but a way to celebrate the remarkable world of work we have become. We need to let our people learn, whether it’s part of their present job or a future aspiration — and we need to empower them to do it.
GROUP 2: SUPERVISORS & MANAGEMENT
This article was compiled using information via ForConstructionsPros.com
• • • • • • • • • • •
(Author: Brad Humphrey), TrainingMag.com (Author: Lorri Freifeld) and
Communication, presentation and facilitation skills Leadership Building teamwork Scheduling and daily “huddles” Managing time and energy Coaching and counseling Dealing with difficult people Negotiation Resource management Problem solving and strategic decision making Leadership for safety, quality and continuous improvement
28 | Official Publication of The Ohio Landscape Association
Forbes.com (Author: Meghan M. Biro).
As part of the OLA’s mission to Educate and Advocate on behalf of Ohio’s Landscape Profession, we continually offer training opportunities for all facets of your landscape business. For the most up-to-date list of this year’s clinics & programs, please visit https://www.ohiolandscapers.org/calendar.html. If you have suggestions for future clinics and/or programs you would like to see the OLA offer, please contact our office directly at 440.717.0002, or email our Events Manager, Rick Doll, at Rick@ohiolandscapers.org.
OLA EDUCATION SERIES
COURSE INFO THURSDAY, APRIL 8, 2020 ST. MICHAEL’S WOODSIDE 5025 EAST MILL ROAD BROADVIEW HEIGHTS, OH AGENDA REGISTRATION / BREAKFAST 8:00AM - 8:30AM CLINIC 8:30AM - 4:30PM BREAKFAST, LUNCH & SNACK ARE INCLUDED! COST MEMBERS BEFORE 03/25/20 - $99 AFTER 03/25/20 - $129 NON MEMBERS BEFORE 03/25/20 - $129 AFTER 03/25/20 - $159
Spring Training Day
As winter comes to a end, Mother Nature shifts her focus towards spring – and so must our crews! This year’s Spring Training Clinic will teach your employees industry best practices from start to finish, as well as how to be safe while performing them – all in effort to get them ready for the 2020 season! This year’s topics of discussion will include: • Stretching: Starting Your Day Off Right • Travel Safety: Pre-trip Inspections & Proper Loading/Hauling Practices • Equipment Utilization, Operation & Safety - Mower & Small Equipment - Tree & Shrub Work - Chemical Applications & Pesticides - Small Engine Equipment • First Aid: ‘What to do in Emergency Situations’ & ‘How to Deal with Cuts, Lacerations & Heat Stroke’ • Post Trip Work: Dumping, Cleaning & Equipment Maintenance Best Practices Having a trained crew is the key to fostering a culture of safety within your company. Owners, Crew Leaders, Crew Members – anyone working in the Green Profession – is encouraged to attend!
INSTRUCTED BY PROFESSIONALS FROM:
Mike Spicer Associates Cancellations made 8 to 14 days prior to the course start date will be subject to a 30% cancellation fee. NO refunds or credits 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.
2020 SPRING TRAINING DAY / REGISTRATION CLOSES 04/01/20 Company Contact Address City State Phone (______)
Zip
Fax (______) Email
NAME OF ATTENDEE (S)
FEE
$
$
$
$
TOTAL DUE Check No. (Enclosed)
Charge to my:
Acct. No.
Name on Card
Exp. Date
7
Security Code
Signature
Billing Address + Zipcode for Card CEU’S
MasterCard Visa AMEX Discover
AT The Growing ConcernREGISTER | FebruaryONLINE 2020 | 29 OHIOLANDSCAPERS.ORG/EDUCATION/SPRINGTRAINING.HTML
D I RECTI ON S
PREPARING FOR SPRING At the time I am writing this, we really haven’t had much winter weather; though I am sure it will come. In the meantime, now is a great time to be preparing for spring. In doing so, don’t forget to include your staff in those plans. The OLA has some great opportunities coming in 2020 for you to train your new and long time staff members. This year, we are offering our Foreman Training Clinic – sponsored by Wolf Creek Company – in both Northeast Ohio (March 9) and Central Ohio (March 10). Often, we take our best workers and promote them to become a foreman without giving them any training, even though it is not easy to make the transition from co-worker to supervisor. And sometimes, even seasoned veterans can use a refresher on some best practices in their role. Professor Armando Actis (Training & Project Manager with Rendel’s Inc.) inspires participants to improve their leadership, communication, and customer service skills. While these clinics are taught in English, Armando is fluent in Spanish to help make your Spanish speaking staff feel comfortable. These clinics have sold out two years running, so be sure to register your team members soon! Next, we will be holding our Spring Training Clinic in Northeast Ohio, at St. Michael’s Woodside Event Center, on April 8. This clinic is meant to prepare your staff to hit the ground running in 2020, ready to perform day-to-day tasks safely and effectively. Included in this program will be mower and hand-held equipment operation, pesticide/ chemical handling, pre-trip inspections, trailer safety, first aid and more! The Ohio State Patrol will be speaking, as well – and who doesn’t want to hear first-hand from them! Again, we anticipate this class to fill up quickly. I think my favorite event we put on each year is the Landscape Ohio! Gala, taking place March 26, 2020 at Windows On The River, on the west bank of the Flats in Cleveland. Our
30 | Official Publication of The Ohio Landscape Association
SANDY MUNLEY
Executive Director The Ohio Landscape Association
awards program is truly second to none. In its 23rd year, the Gala has become so much more than an awards show. It is a time to celebrate the great profession we all work in, regardless of if you are a contractor, nursery, equipment, or materials supplier. In fact, the event has become so popular that we moved it to a larger venue to accommodate more guests. Here are a few of the reasons you should attend: • This year, Joe Drake (J.F.D. Landscapes) is being honored with the Lifetime Contributions to the Landscape Industry Award. He was nominated for this award because of the immense effort he has put into grassroots lobbying. Joe has been going to Washington, D.C. regularly on behalf of the OLA for 20 years. He was talking H2b before the cap was hit, in anticipation of the number of visas becoming a problem and has worked hard to encourage other contractors and suppliers to engage with our legislators to make sure that our voice is heard. • We will be awarding scholarships to students who are currently enrolled in, or planning to attend, a horticulture program at a 2- or 4-year college/university. Many of these students go on to become your topproducing team members! • The evening starts with a networking/cocktail hour that provides opportunities to meet and talk with your peers. • It is a wonderful opportunity to see the best landscape work during the presentation of awards from some of the top landscape companies in Ohio. It is inspirational to see these landscapes, providing an opportunity for you to get ideas for future work.
ADVERTI SI N G I N D E X OLA’s NEW MEMBERS The Ohio Landscape Association is delighted to welcome the following members:
REGULAR MEMBERS
ASSOCIATE MEMBERS
Ground Guys of Canton 315 Raynolds Place SW Canton, OH 44707 440-453-8616 Dan Dycus
A-1 Power Equipment 12126 York Road, Unit A North Royalton, OH 44133 440-230-3807 Allen Pniewski
Linden Landcare LLC 10130 Beeson Street Alliance, OH 44601 330-238-8543 Aaron Buehler
Arborist Advisors, LTD 4910 Reed Road, Apt. H Columbus, Ohio 43220 614-403-1226 Stephan Carbonara
Parks Tree, Inc. 34612 Lakeland Blvd. Eastlake, OH 44095 440-953-8733 Amanda Hiser
David Berkley Insurance Grp. 3705 Medina Road, Suite 8 Medina, OH 44256 330-241-4208 Mitchell Zofka
AFFILIATE MEMBER
STUDENT MEMBER
James Hoskins Cuyahoga Community Ohio Dept. of Youth Srvcs. College (Hort. Instructor) Sarah Castrigano 560 E. College Street Alliance, OH 44601 330-268-3314
• This event is a great opportunity to showcase your profession to your spouse or significant other. It is also a way to motivate your team members by taking them to an upscale, professional event. You can find registration information on the OLA website (www.ohiolandscapers.org/landscapeohioawards) and on page 20. We look forward to seeing an even bigger crowd this year! Finally, as you prepare for spring, remember to be proud of what you do and how you affect people’s lives. You provide careers. You make communities more attractive and better places to live. You turn people’s dreams into reality. You create and maintain beautiful spaces that bring people outside. You increase the value of homes while increasing usable living space. Isn’t that wonderful? I think it is!
21
A-1 Power Equipment
17
Abraxus Salt
15
Art Form Nurseries
2
Botson Insurance Group, Inc.
19
Buyansky Brothers Materials
9
Cascade Lighting
9
Davis Tree Farm & Nursery, Inc.
17
Frank Brothers Landscape Supply
27
Mason Structural Steel, Inc.
19
O’Reilly Equipment
13
Premier Plant Solutions
6
Business For Sale
27
Sohar’s / RCPW, Inc.
24
Valley City Supply
11
VanCuren Tree Services, Inc.
23
VanCuren/ All Organic Mulch
15
Zoresco Equipment Company The Growing Concern | February 2020 | 31
Presorted Standard U.S. Postage Paid Cleveland, OH Permit No. 2280
9240 Broadview Road OH  44147-2517 Broadview Hts., OH
10/19 02/20
ENTER TODAY ENTER TODAY
ASSOCIATE MEMBERS Frank Brothers Supply, Inc. 9718 Avon Lake Road Lodi, OH 44254 (330) 948-1006 Doug Frank
Encouraging Professional Standards and Promoting the Green Industry