The Growing Concern July 2016 by Sandy Munley

Growing Concern

The

JULY 2016

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 Education Series / Plant ID July 15th, 2016 at Davis Tree Farm & Nursery in Valley City, Ohio PAGE 7

The OLA Scholarship Golf Outing Registration & Sponsorship Opportunities PAGES 20 & 21

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PR ES I DEN T’S COLUM N

BRYAN TAYNOR Hidden Creek Landscaping, Inc.

LEAD WITH ATTITUDE Lately, it seems you can’t turn on the TV or read a news article where someone isn’t sticking their foot in their mouth, or getting caught making a stupid, downright irresponsible decision. And while it appears that there is no shortage of poor leadership examples out there, be they government officials, CEOs, or even professional sports figures, have faith. There are plenty of great examples of leadership out there; you just have to find them. Not too long ago, there was a news story circulating about the owner of the Chobani yogurt company, Hamdi Ulukaya, who gave all of his employees stock ownership in the company before it went public. Obviously, a great gesture for the employees who help make that company successful, but let’s face it – many of us aren’t the owners of a big company, and probably none of us have the ability to give away millions of dollars in an effort to be considered a great leader.

If you already have someone in a leadership position with the wrong attitude, work with them to get it turned around before it poisons those around them. With that in mind, all of you have heard the term, “Lead by example.” And while it is true we all need to set a good example for those around us, I say “Lead with attitude,” because that is where it all starts! continued on page 6 The Growing Concern x July 2016 x 3

TAB LE OF CON TEN TS J U L Y 2 0 1 6 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 EDITOR Rick Doll, Jr. REGULAR WRITERS 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 Bryan Taynor, Hidden Creek Landscaping, Inc.

ON THE COVER: Happy 4th of July to our members, their families and team members!

FEATURES

3 8 12 16 22 28 32 33

PRESIDENT’S COLUMN

ADVERTISING INFORMATION Submission deadline: 10th of the month, prior to the month of publication. For advertising rates, please call 440.717.0002, 1.800.335.6521, or email Rick Doll at rick@ ohiolandscapers.org.

FOR SAFETY SAKE

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.

PLANT OF THE MONTH

OFFICERS President Bryan Taynor

OLA STAFF Executive Director Sandy Munley

President – Elect Cathy Serafin, ASLA, RLA

Communications & Events Manager Rick Doll, Jr.

Treasurer Marie McConnell

Membership Coordinator Noreen Schraitle

Lead With Attitude

PERENNIAL FOCUS

Fallopia japonica ‘Variegata’ Variegated Fleece Flower Recognizing & Preventing Heat-Related Illnesses Kalopanax septemlobus Castor-aralia

FISCAL FITNESS

Social Security FAQs

FEATURE ARTICLE

Green Industry Labor Crisis: Let’s Get Busy

DIRECTIONS

Get Recognized

ADVERTISING INDEX

4 x Official Publication of The Ohio Landscape Association

Immediate Past President Steve Moore DIRECTORS Eric Brubeck, ASLA Adam Capiccioni James Funai Jacob Grimm Nathan Kowalsick Domenic Lauria

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

JULY

AUGUST

OCTOBER

JULY 10-12, 2016 LEGISLATIVE DAY ON THE HILL

AUGUST 4, 2016 OLA SCHOLARSHIP GOLF CLASSIC

OCTOBER 19-21, 2016 LANDSCAPES 2016

This is a three-day experience in Washington, D.C. that educates landscape industry professionals about legislative issues currently affecting our businesses and provides an opportunity to participate directly in the political process by meeting with legislators. For more information contact the National Association of Landscape Professionals (formerly PLANET) at 1-800-395-2522 or visit landscapeprofessionals.org.

Join us for a fun day of golf, networking, food and liquid refreshments at Mallard Creek Golf Club in Columbia Station. For more information contact OLA at 1-800-3356521, or visit OhioLandscapers.org.

Formerly known as the Green Industry Conference (GIC), this is a large landscape and lawn care industry educational conference held in Louisville, Kentucky in conjunction with the GIE+EXPO and Hardscapes North America trade shows. For more information contact the National Association of Landscape Professionals (formerly PLANET) at 1-800-395-2522 or visit landscapeprofessionals.org.

JULY 15, 2016 OLA EDUCATION SERIES / PLANT I.D. This Plant ID Clinic is a hands-on training opportunity for you and your crews that will cover the basics of Plant ID for plants typically used in Zone 6 in Ohio. To Register, contact the OLA at 440-717-0002.

JULY 20, 2016 LANDSCAPE INDUSTRY CERTIFIED TECHNICIAN TEST / WRITTEN ONLY Held on the campus of OSU ATI in Wooster. For more information, contact Jan Elliott or Kim Sayers at the Ohio State ATI Business Training and Educational Services office at 330287-7511 or 330-287-0100, or visit LandscapeCertifiedOhio.org.

JULY 21, 2016 LANDSCAPE INDUSTRY CERTIFIED TECHNICIAN TEST /FULL TEST Hands-On and Written Test. Held on the campus of OSU ATI in Wooster. For more information, contact Jan Elliott or Kim Sayers at the Ohio State ATI Business Training and Educational Services office at 330-287-7511 or 330-287-0100, or visit LandscapeCertifiedOhio.org.

AUGUST 9, 2016 NGLCO FIELD DAY This yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s field day will be again hosted by Chalet Debonne Vineyards in Madison, Ohio. For more information, contact Annette Howard at 440-2417969, info@nglco.com, or visit nglco. com.

OCTOBER 19-21, 2016 GIE+EXPO AND HARDSCAPES NORTH AMERICA These two tradeshows are co-located at the Kentucky Exposition Center in Louisville, Kentucky and are held in conjunction with Landscapes 2016. Indoor displays along with a vast outdoor equipment demo area make this a fun show to attend. October 19 is reserved for dealers only. For more information to go to gie-expo.com.

With the 16th Annual OLA Scholarship Golf Classic right around the corner, we are still looking for companies interested in sponsoring the event. For more information, please see page 21, call the OLA offices at (440)-717-0002, or email Noreen Schraitle at Noreen@ ohiolandscapers.org. The Growing Concern x July 2016 x 5

PR ES I DEN T’S COLUM N continued from page 3 Sure, we like to see our people come in every morning, firedup and ready to go. And that ‘Go Get-em’ attitude is great for motivating people, first thing in the morning. But more important than this can be how you respond to the every-day situations. It can truly leave a lasting impression on those around you.

of apology, or solution towards resolving the issue. Clearly, this is an example of mediocrity, and a culture where people are promoted into ‘leadership’ roles, based solely on seniority and tenure within the company – not because of their ability to actually lead a team.

A good example of this is when a client calls in with a complaint, or random request. There are usually two ways to deal with this. There are those of us who immediately get frustrated, or defensive, and start coming up with excuses in an attempt to circumvent the situation, and there are those who face it head on, looking at it as an opportunity to find a solution. Which would you want on your team?

In the end, it doesn’t matter what the organizational chart looks like. Just because someone is towards the top, doesn’t mean they are leadership material. Anyone can hand out marching orders. What we should be looking for is someone that has the right attitude, that combination of passion and willingness to do what’s right during difficult times, all the while, teaching and coaching those around them to also do what’s right.

Recently, I was talking with someone who was telling me a story about a difficult situation at work. They had approached their superior to express disappointment in the lack of support they had received during a difficult time, and though the superior agreed with everything the employee had to say, that superior failed to provide any type

If you already have someone in a leadership position with the wrong attitude, work with them to get it turned around before it poisons those around them. Others will notice and think that it’s acceptable behavior. A leader with the wrong attitude is far more dangerous than having no leader at all.

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OLA EDUCATION SERIES

PLANT I.D. July 15, 2016

8:30 am to 3:00 pm Davis Tree Farm & Nursery Valley City, Ohio

Instructed by Wendy Moore Davis Tree Farm Bridget Comes Portage Lakes Career Center Russ Luyster, OCNT Impact Grounds Maintenance

This Plant ID Clinic is a hands-on training opportunity for you and your crews that will cover the basics of Plant ID for plants typically used in Zone 6 in Ohio. Many of the plants that will be covered are on the plant list for the Landscape Industry Certified Technician’s Test, including: perennials, groundcovers, ornamental grasses, as well as trees and shrubs – both evergreen and deciduous.

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Those who should attend are plant installation staff, maintenance staff, garden center staff, foreman, and anyone studying to take the Landscape Industry Certified Technician’s Test.

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GENERAL INFORMATION: This seminar is hands-on training with live plant material. Attendees will need to bring their own notepad and pen, and will need to dress appropriately for outdoor practical training. Continental breakfast and lunch are included. Register early as class size is limited and will sell out quickly. Register online by going to www.ohiolandscapers.org and clicking on the EDUCATION button.

Qualifies for 5 CEUs for Landscape Industry Certified

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 less than 7 days 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.

OLA Members OLA Members

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Acct. No. Exp. Date Name on Card Signature Billing Address + Zipcode for Card Last Three Digits on Signature Line PLANT ID CLINIC Make checks payable and send to: Ohio Landscape Association, 9240 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 Website: www.ohiolandscapers.org

PEREN N I AL FOCUS

BOBBIE SCHWARTZ, FAPLD Bobbie’s Green Thumb Fallopia japonica, used as an intermediate layer against climbing roses.

FALLOPIA JAPONICA ‘VARIEGATA’ VARIEGATED FLEECE FLOWER This genus is much maligned because of its tendency to cover the earth, and is closely related to another genus with similar tendencies, Polygonum. However, I am extremely fond of this particular Fallopia. Of Japanese origin, it is hardy to zone 5. When it foliates in the spring, it is easy to spot because the new growth is coral red. Once it unfurls, its white, or cream/pink/ green variegated, heart-shaped foliage is gorgeous. The stems are red, the flowers (which bees love) are a bonus, and the ability to grow in full sun or partial shade, and in moist to dry soil, is a huge asset. I do get out my spade when it spreads further than I would like, but fortunately, it is relatively easy to dig.

In the sun, the background color is white. When placed against a dark brick house, it is spectacular. When planted in partial shade, the white becomes cream-colored. And because this perennial grows quite tall, up to 7 feet, and wide in a moist situation – like my front entry garden – I prune it. This quick chore makes the Fallopia much bushier. In drier sites, it will only grow 4 feet tall and wide. continued on page 10

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PEREN N I AL FOCUS continued from page 8 In September, thick white sprays of fleecy flowers appear in the axils of the leaves. The strong stalks remain erect throughout the winter and do need to be cut to the ground in early spring. In my entry garden, I use the Fallopia as an intermediate layer against the background of climbing roses and the foreground of Clematis ‘Niobe’, Astilbe chinensis ‘Spatsommer’ that grows 2 feet tall, and Nepeta ‘Dropmore Hybrid’ that is even shorter. It also gives me color in the period when the roses have finished blooming – June only – and the Astilbe have yet to put on their show. In a client’s shady driveway bed, the Fallopia is the feature plant with Carex ‘Ice Dance’ and Thujopsis dolobrata ‘Variegata’ in front of it. I’m sure you can find a home for this versatile perennial. 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). She currently serves as chair of the ONLA Plant Selection Committee. She can be reached at (216) 752-9449.

10 x Official Publication of The Ohio Landscape Association

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FOR SAFETY SAKE

RECOGNIZING & PREVENTING HEAT-RELATED ILLNESSES With the summer work season now in full swing, and the mild temperatures of spring a thing of the past, many workers are just beginning to “feel the burn.” The challenge now, having reached this point of the year, is that heat and humidity will tend to be at their highest. In order to stay safe, workers – whether they are new to the field or returning – need to be aware of how environmental factors can affect their health and work performance and develop a plan for working in the heat.

THE HEAT AND OUR BODIES

HEAT-RELATED ILLNESSES

Our bodies cool off through the evaporation of sweat. As the heat rises, we produce more sweat to keep cool. But, as humidity rises, it becomes more difficult for the sweat to evaporate, hampering the body’s ability to keep cool. There are two main concerns for working in the heat – dehydration and heat-related illnesses such as heat exhaustion or heat stroke.

When the body’s cooling systems are overworked, we can experience heat-related illnesses. When we start to experience any symptoms, it’s important to pay attention so we can seek immediate treatment to cool off and rehydrate. Note that not all symptoms may be present, but it’s still critical to stop all activity and move to a cool area out of the sun for treatment. continued on page 14

12 x Official Publication of The Ohio Landscape Association

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Because our bodies are working harder and producing more sweat, we lose fluids rapidly, which is why it is important for workers to stay hydrated. When they don’t, they can become dehydrated, a condition that can be potentially lifethreatening. Early symptoms of dehydration include:

• • • • • • •

Headache Dizziness Thirst Feeling less alert Muscle cramps Decreased urine output Urine that is dark in color

Drinking water while out in the field working simply isn’t enough to keep the body hydrated. The American Council on Exercise recommends the following guidelines to help:

• Before work, drink 17-20 oz. of fluid within the 2 hours before beginning.

• During work, drink 7-10 oz. every 10-20 minutes throughout the day.

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• After work, drink 16-24 oz. per pound of body weight lost. Ways you can help maintain hydration include:

• Drink water throughout the day. To remain hydrated it is important to drink fluids throughout the day and not only during activity. • Eat foods with high water and electrolyte content such as fruits and vegetables. • After working, consume water and possibly an electrolyte replacement drink. • Avoid beverages that contain alcohol and caffeine. These are diuretics and will add to the dehydration of the worker.

HEAT EXHAUSTION Heat exhaustion isn’t necessarily life-threatening, but can be a precursor to heat stroke. Symptoms include:

DISTRIBUTOR 14 x Official Publication of The Ohio Landscape Association

• • • • • • • •

Heavy sweating Nausea Confusion Vomiting Goose bumps Extreme fatigue Incoordination (e.g. weaving, staggering, etc.) Weak and rapid pulse

FOR SAFETY SAKE

If you experience these symptoms, seek medical treatment. If you are with someone who has these symptoms, remove excess clothing, provide cool fluids and cool the body with ice or a damp cloth to the neck, armpits and groin area while you wait for medical assistance.

HEAT STROKE Heat stroke occurs when the body can no longer cool itself and the core body temperature reaches very high levels. When the body’s ability to cool itself off breaks down, the body’s core temperature can increase 1.8 degrees Fahrenheit every five minutes. If left untreated, this can cause permanent damage to major organs and possibly even death. Heat stroke can occur rapidly and is a medical emergency that requires immediate care and rapid cooling. Keep in mind you may not experience symptoms of heat exhaustion prior to experiencing heat stroke. Symptoms of heat stroke do include those of heat exhaustion, as well as:

• • • • • • •

Bizarre behavior Significant confusion Lack of consciousness A strong and fast pulse Red skin Either heavy sweating or a cessation of sweating A temperature greater than 104 degrees (common methods of taking the temperature – orally, under the armpit, across the forehead – may not be accurate)

When someone is experiencing a heat stroke, they need to be cooled immediately. Cold water immersion is the most effective, but if that’s not possible, move the person to an air-conditioned room; place ice packs on the neck, armpits, and groin; use fans; and if conscious, provide cool liquids until he or she can be transported to a medical facility for further care. Portions of this article used with permission from UW Health. UW Health is the integrated health system of the University of Wisconsin-Madison serving more than 600,000 patients each year.

The Growing Concern x July 2016 x 15

PL ANT OF TH E M ON TH

JIM FUNAI, LIC Cuyahoga Community College

SHELLEY FUNAI, LIC Castor-aralia blooms in the style of Umbel, or in other words, “like an umbrella.”

Stan Hywet Hall and Gardens

KALOPANAX SEPTEMLOBUS CASTOR-ARALIA

Exploring plant families is a pretty fun way to start discovering new plants. No really, we promise, it’s totally fun! And as the two of us were hitting up all the great spring plant sales across the state – in search of the next addition to the Funai Arboretum – we came across a number of really cool finds. We picked up a Weeping Trident Maple at Dawes Arboretum, a Hornbeam Maple at Secrest Arboretum, and this month’s plant of the month, Kalopanax septemlobus (Castor-aralia), at Fellows Riverside. Oh, and when we say the “next addition” to our arboretum, this year it turned out to be the next 16 additions. Who let two plant nerds get married anyway!? What is interesting about looking at plants from the “plant family aspect” is not only seeing the ways that plants are clearly related, but also the ways in which they are not. Let’s explore the family, Aralia (Araliaceae), for example.

16 x Official Publication of The Ohio Landscape Association

You certainly know the most common member, Hedera helix (English Ivy), which is an aggressive growing vine that uses tiny root-like holds to climb almost anything. When given the chance to climb, one can observe the unique change from immature to mature foliage – losing most of its lobes, flowering and fruiting. It is the flower and fruit that give away the “family traits.” The proper term for this particular style of a flower is an Umbel, which may be best described as “blooming like an umbrella,” with all flowers in the cluster originating from the same center point on the stalk. Fruits are round, so-purple-they’re-black, small, but

ornamental treats for the birds. This flower and fruit Umbel is found across the family Araliaceae, in other familiar members such as Panax (Ginseng), Aralia (Devil’s Walking Stick), and for you indoor/tropical plant fans, Schefflera (Umbrella Tree). Similarities aside, it is almost more exciting to look at the differences within plant families. While English Ivy is busy crawling across the ground searching for something to climb, and Ginseng is happy being a little guy on the forest floor, this month’s plant, Castor-aralia, is reaching for the top of the canopy in the forest. Found in its native habitats across much of Japan, Northeast China, the Korean peninsula, and into the Russian Far East, this tree will reach heights of 90 feet tall. In gardens, it tends to stay a bit shorter at 60 to 70 feet, but still a great shade tree to think about.

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Currently, this plant doesn’t have much popularity in the landscape, most likely due to the foreboding appearance of the stems. Prickles, or thorns, are born along the young stems, giving a look of a pretty intimidating tree to handle. However, think about people’s obsession with roses! Those are loaded with prickles and no one bats an eye. Yet, suggest a tree with prickles, and they picture an evil beast that has come to gather their children, once the tree has reached climbing height. The amazing thing about prickles is if you don’t touch them, they can’t hurt you! And if we have to prune the tree, well, that’s what leather gloves are for. It would still be better than a Black Locust, or Honeylocust! With that said, what acceptance this tree may lose due to prickles, it should gain back quickly in its distinctive beauty. The seven lobed leaves, septemlobus (from Latin “sept” meaning seven and “lobe”), can grow up to over a foot wide and cluster towards the tips of branches, giving this a very tropical look. When you see this tree, especially younger ones, it seems like it came straight out of the jungle. Klyn Nursery offers a naturally occurring variety – thus, not a cultivar – of Maximowiczii, discovered by the late, great Russian botanist, Karl Maximowicz, in 1865. It has an extremely deep-lobed leaf, adding to the tropical appeal, but maintaining a smaller overall size – under 40 feet.

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While WE don’t see the prickles on the branches as a bad thing – they’re pretty cool, actually – if you take that out of the equation, then there are pretty much no other issues with this tree in the landscape. It is fairly tolerant of soils, with the exception of extremely dry sites, and has no disease or insect issues to mention. And, while a location with shade is fine, some time with direct exposure to the sun will help to keep it more full and vigorous.

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continued on page 18

The Growing Concern x July 2016 x 17 0116 Klyn Half.indd 1

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PL ANT OF TH E M ON TH continued from page 17 In late summer, the tree will provide the same Umbel of white flowers as its cousin, English Ivy, but with Castoraralia they will be up to 2 feet across! We liken the overall visual effect to those really cool fireworks you see on the 4th of July. You know? The ones that explode in all directions in pure white, and then after a second, they all explode again and make a giant poof ball of awesomeness. Honestly, how could you possibly resist a plant that we just compared to a giant firework!? In fact, the Latin name, Kalopanax, means “beautiful panax (ginseng)” and was given by another great botanist, Takenoshin Nakai, as he found it to be the most beautiful of the family. Fruits follow the massive blooms, as tiny black drupes that are quite favored by birds, leading us to the possible argument that the tree might be invasive. Does it reseed? Yes. Do birds spread the seed? Yes. Is it invasive? NO, not to any significant extent. We can think of several botanical gardens where these plants reside, and having walked the areas, found no evidence of great escape. This plant will

never reach a level of popularity in the landscape that it would be of invasive concern. The reseeding and spread of the plant isn’t of any more concern to us than the Red and Sugar Maples we have. We think this could be a great, smaller shade tree for you to pick for your next client who is looking for something unique. It won’t replace the staples of the landscape ever, but could really be a conversation piece for the right garden with the right space. Give it a look and see what you think!

Jim Funai is full-time faculty at Cuyahoga Community College, a NALP accredited associate of applied science in hoticulture degree program offering many paths to higher education in the green industry. He is pursuing 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 H. Manning and a beautiful manor house museum. She is Landscape Industry Certified in Ornamental Plant Care. Both are graduates of The Ohio State University. Contact Jim and Shelley via email at hortsquad@gmail.com.

The seven lobed leaves, septemlobus (from Latin ‘sept’ meaning seven and ‘lobe’), can grow up to over a foot wide and cluster towards the tips of branches, giving this a very tropical look.

18 x Official Publication of The Ohio Landscape Association

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COMPANY

____________________________________________

___________________________________________________

____________________________________________

___________________________________________________

____________________________________________

___________________________________________________

____________________________________________

___________________________________________________

wName of Team Captain _____________________________

Email Address of Team Captain __________________________________

Payment must be included with registration. Sorry no refunds after July 11, 2016



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

SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES DINNER SPONSOR

TROPHIES SPONSOR

CLOSEST TO THE PIN SPONSOR

LUNCH SPONSOR

CONTINENTAL BREAKFAST SPONSOR

CORNHOLE SPONSOR

BEVERAGE CART SPONSORS

AVAILABLE COMMEMORATIVE GIFT SPONSOR

HOLE-IN-ONE SPONSOR

LONG PUTT CONTEST SPONSOR

BALL DROP CONTEST SPONSOR

LONG DRIVE CONTEST SPONSOR

DRIVING RANGE SPONSOR

AVAILABLE

Thank You

TO OUR MAJOR AND CONTEST SPONSORS Sponsorship Opportunities We are excited to be holding our 16th annual golf outing at Mallard Creek Golf Club on August 4, 2016. But, we need your help to make it a success! This event helps to generate funding for our scholarship program, targeting qualified students interested in a vocation within the green industry. Call us to find out more about sponsorship features and benefits. Tee Sponsorships

(Your company name will appear on a sign at your designated tee.)

Door Prize(s) Please Specify: Item(s) will be:  shipped to OLA

$100

Beverage Cart

$500

Continental Breakfast

$300

(Your company name will appear on a sign on cart.)

(Your company name will appear on a sign at registration & breakfast.)

 dropped off at OLA

Cash Donation $ Let us shop for you!

CONTACT INFORMATION Name Company Address City State

Zip Code

Phone Email Address

Payment Information



Check No. ___________ Enclosed Charge to my

 MasterCard

 Visa  Please send an invoice (Invoices terms are Net 15 days sent upon receipt.)

FISCAL FI TN ESS

MICHAEL J. DONNELLAN King Financial, Inc.

SOCIAL SECURITY FAQS How much do you really know about Social Security? Eventually, most people will have to make some decisions regarding their Social Security benefits. Understanding some of the issues that may arise can help you in your retirement planning. Here are some commonly asked questions.

WHEN CAN I RECEIVE BENEFITS?

CAN I DELAY COLLECTING BENEFITS?

Your “full retirement age” is the age at which you will be eligible to start receiving full (unreduced) Social Security benefits. It’s based on the year you were born.

You can postpone signing up for Social Security until after your full retirement age. If you delay taking benefits, your benefit will increase by a certain percentage, depending on your date of birth, until you reach age 70. If you were born in 1943 or later, your benefits will increase by 8% each year you delay taking benefits until you reach age 70.

You can start collecting benefits as early as age 62. However, your benefits will be reduced a fraction of a percent for each month before your full retirement age.

WHAT’S YOUR ‘FULL’ RETIREMENT AGE YEAR BORN 1943-1954 1955-1959 1960 and later

FULL RETIREMENT AGE 66 between 66 and 67 67

For example, if you were born in 1960 and decide to postpone taking benefits, your benefit will increase 8% per year up until age 70.

HOW ARE MY BENEFITS CALCULATED? To be eligible to receive Social Security benefits, you need to work and pay Social Security taxes. You can earn up to four “credits” for each year you work. You need at least 40 credits to receive benefits. continued on page 25

22 x Official Publication of The Ohio Landscape Association

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FISCAL FI TN ESS continued from page 22 In 2016, you must earn $1,260 to get one Social Security work credit and $5,040 to get the maximum four credits for the year. When you retire, your Social Security benefit will be based on the 35 years you earned the most money. Keep in mind, however, there is a maximum benefit amount. For example, the maximum monthly benefit for a worker retiring in 2016 at full retirement age is $2,639. The average monthly benefit is $1,341.

WILL I HAVE TO PAY TAXES ON MY SOCIAL SECURITY BENEFITS? Depending on your income, a portion of your Social Security benefits may be taxed. Your income includes half of your Social Security benefits plus any wages, self-employment income, dividends and interest (including tax-exempt interest), and any other income you earn.

WHAT IF I WORK PART-TIME DURING RETIREMENT? If you retire early and then decide to go back to work after you start receiving Social Security benefits, earning too much could reduce your benefits. In 2016, if you earn more than $15,720 and are under your full retirement age, your benefits will be reduced $1 for every $2 you earn above that limit. There is a different limit and benefit reduction formula for the year you reach full retirement age, and only amounts earned before the month you reach full retirement age count. Beginning the month you reach your full retirement age, there is no limit on earnings. The information provided is general in nature and should not be construed as tax or financial advice specific to your situation. Talk to your tax and financial advisors for advice regarding your individual goals and circumstance.

If you file a federal tax return as an individual, you may have to pay income tax on up to: Michael J. Donnellan is President of King Financial, Inc., with offices in

• 50% of your benefits if your income is between $25,000 and $34,000 • 85% of your benefits if your income is more than $34,000

Strongsville and the M3 Wealth Management office in North Royalton, Ohio specializing in stock selection and retirement planning. Contact him with questions or comments. Phone:(440) 652-6370 Email: donnellan@ m3wealthmanagement.com

If you file a joint federal tax return, you may have to pay income tax on up to:

Securities and advisory services offered through L.M. Kohn & Company Registered Broker/Dealer Member FINRA/SIPC/MSRB

• 50% of your benefits if your income is between $32,000 and $44,000 • 85% of your benefits if your income is more than $44,000

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SNOW & ICE M A NAG E M E N T

S P O N S O R S HI P SPONSORSHIP / EXHIBIT OPPORTUNITIES The OLA would like to invite you to participate in our 2016 Snow & Ice Management Clinic!

Our Snow & Ice Management Clinic is a can’t miss event for anyone in or thinking about being in the snow and ice business. Designed for both business owners and employees, the clinic will include group discussions and great information from snow and ice industry experts.

SPONSORSHIP/EXHIBIT INFORMATION Sponsorship & exhibit opportunties are available to all Green Industry suppliers – even non snow and ice related businesses. Exhibitors may set up their exhibits on August 25, beginning at 7:00 am. All

exhibit spaces will be located on pavement and should be interactive for attendees.

EVENT INFORMATION August 25, 2016 8:30 am to 4:30 pm

Location

St. Michael’s Woodside 5025 East Mill Road Broadview Heights, OH 44147

PRESENTED BY Ohio Landscape Association www.OhioLandscapers.org www.MyOhioLandscape.com

COST & BENEFITS 10x10 Outdoor Space

• • • • • • • •

Includes attendance for up to 2 people – All attendees receive breakfast and lunch Signage with company name displayed at the event Company will have the ability to display equipment within their 10x10 outdoor space Company logo will appear on all email blast communications promoting event with a link to company website Company logo and link to website will appear on the Snow & Ice Clinic page of our industry website with event information Company will be recognized at the event and will have the ability to pass out marketing materials to attendees Company receives a complimentary event attendance list, including attendee’s company name, contact person, mailing address, & phone number Cost: OLA Member – $400; Non Member – $550

30x40 or 20x60 Outdoor Space

• • • • • • • •

Includes attendance for up to 3 people – All attendees receive breakfast and lunch Signage with company name displayed at the event Company will have the ability to display equipment within their 30x40 or 20x60 outdoor space Company logo will appear on all email blast communications promoting event with a link to company website Company logo and link to website will appear on the Snow & Ice Clinic page of our industry website with event information Company will be recognized at the event and will have the ability to pass out marketing materials to attendees Company receives a complimentary event attendance list, including attendee’s company name, contact person, mailing address, & phone number Cost: OLA Member – $600; Non Member – $800

SIZE AND BOOTH # REQUESTED

 30x40 Outdoor Space #_______

 20x60 Outdoor Space #_______

 10x10 Outdoor Space #_______

CONTACT INFORMATION

Sponsor Company Contact Address City State Phone (______)

Zip

Fax (______) Email

PAYMENT INFORMATION

 Check # Enclosed

Charge $

 MasterCard

 Visa

 Please send an invoice (Invoices will be sent upon receipt of this form.) Acct. No. Exp. Date Name on Card Signature Billing Address + Zipcode for Card

Last Three Digits on Signature Line

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

SNOW & I CE M A NAG E M E NT

REG IS T R ATI O N SNOW BUSINESS SUCCESS

PRESENTED BY

Whether you are the owner, operations manager, person that answers the phone, or anyone in between, this is a can’t miss event! You will be treated to diverse, interesting topics, with a lot of interaction between you and the presenters, as well as your peers. Focus on making your company even better when handling the “white” side of your business. REGISTER NOW for a fun, informative day!

KEY NOTE SPEAKER: STEVEN COHEN Business & Financial Balance for Snow Business Success

While snow & ice management services present many great opportunities to balance your seasonal business, there are challenges achieving this successfully. This session offers an overview of snow market segments, contract types, and strategies to identify what you do best and how to optimize that for snow business success.

EVENT INFORMATION August 25, 2016

A Strong Management Mindset for Snow Operations Success

Your thinking is critical to the success of your snow & ice management business, regardless of the size of your company. This session will outline the critical questions that you must ask yourself while building your snow business model and provide the best practices to implemement as you prepare your team for customer satisfaction and operational excellence.

8:30 am to 4:30 pm

Location

St. Michael’s Woodside 5025 East Mill Road Broadview Heights, OH 44147

ALSO FEATURING Mini Trade Show: Visit industry vendors. See what’s new. Displayed equipment, products & services. Roundtable Discussions: Pertinent industry topics. Always a favorite! Panel Discussions: Hear from industry peers. Another favorite and back by popular demand.

Qualifies for 5.5 CEUs for Landscape Industry Certified

Drawing for Prizes: You MUST be present to win! Special Price! ~ Register one person from your company and each additional person from the company is only an additional $69! 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 8/14/15

OLA Members

$99

NON Members

$149

OLA Members

$129

NON Members

$179

Company Contact Address City State Phone (______)

Zip

Fax (______) Email

NAME OF ATTENDEE

FEE

Each additional person from your company is only $69

 Check No. ___________ Enclosed

Charge to my  MasterCard

 Visa

TOTAL DUE $ Acct. No. Exp. Date

Name on Card Signature Billing Address + Zipcode for Card

Last Three Digits on Signature Line

HELP WANTED 28 x Official Publication of The Ohio Landscape Association

F EATURE ARTI CLE

GREEN INDUSTRY LABOR CRISIS: LET’S GET BUSY You can’t be with a group of landscape contractors long before the conversation turns to the topic of the difficulty finding and retaining good employees. I hear stories of ads run in newspapers or online with no responses. Or of potential employees interviewed and offered a job, who don’t show for the first day of work. But you know the stories. As a landscape company owner, you’ve lived those stories. In industry surveys that I’ve conducted over the years, the issue of finding and keeping good employees is always in the top three problems faced by landscape contractors and other Green Industry companies. And unless some things change, the problem only will get worse.

THE DEMOGRAPHIC FACTS Demographics are not in our favor, at least not for the next decade or so. The baby boom generation, born between 1946 and 1964, was the largest population group in this country’s

history, numbering some 76 million people. That population is now aging and leaving the workforce. Following on the heels of the boomers is Generation X, born between 1965 and 1981. This population group is significantly smaller than boomers and its members are now in their prime working years. Because Boomers are leaving the workforce and there are fewer Gen Xers, at least some of the labor problems experienced by the Green Industry are due simply to these demographic facts. continued on page 30 The Growing Concern x July 2016 x 29

F EATURE ARTI CLE

Each of us, as individuals, must take responsibility for telling the story of our industry to excite kids and their parents about the career opportunities we offer. No one else will do that for us. CAREER CHOICES Some of the evidence we’re seeing in Pennsylvania is troubling. During the past year, three vocational-technical schools closed their horticulture programs due to dwindling enrollment. Over the past five years, three community colleges ended their horticulture and landscape contracting programs for the same reason. We also hear similar stories from four-year college horticulture programs across the country. Kids and their parents are not seeing jobs in our industry as viable life career choices.

IMMIGRANT LABOR So our industry has turned increasingly to immigrant labor, whether documented or undocumented. Many landscape contractors who have turned to the H-2B guest-worker program have found it to be a frustrating nightmare of delays and bureaucratic snafus. The recent decision by the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) to raise the H-2B wage rates is just the latest in a long series of hostile actions against the program by the DOL and Homeland Security stretching back to the Bush administration. Those companies that don’t use H-2B, but do their best to screen employees to be certain their documentation is legitimate, are faced with forged documents that even experts often can’t detect. Contractors are faced with the dual threat of hiring an undocumented worker or facing a civil rights lawsuit for rejecting an applicant who’s in this country legally.

WHAT’S THE ANSWER? There is no easy answer, but there are a number of things that we must do as company owners and as an industry to turn the tide.

30 x Official Publication of The Ohio Landscape Association

First, as owners, realize that one of your primary jobs is leading the human resources function in your company. This means giving significant time and attention to the recruitment and care of your employees, even if you have someone else handling the day-to-day HR function. It’s one of your major responsibilities and it’s hard work. I know many landscape contractors for whom this was a surprise. They got into the business because they love it, whether it’s simply being outside or perhaps the design and installation process. They dislike the HR manager aspects of being a company owner. Sorry, it comes with the turf. Second, you have to be your own public relations and marketing department, not only for your company but for our industry. Get involved with your local vo-tech program, community college or four-year horticulture or landscape contracting college program where you can tell your story. Each of us as individuals must take responsibility for telling the story of our industry to excite kids and their parents about the career opportunities we offer. No one else will do that for us. Several years ago, your national and state landscape and nursery associations got together and developed a website to help you tell this story: www.TheLandLovers.org. It’s a great resource if you have the opportunity to give a talk to kids or parents about the career opportunities in our industry. Finally, you must get involved in encouraging your Congressional representatives to support comprehensive immigration reform. During the August recess, your representatives will be holding

town hall meetings and other opportunities for you to encourage their support of reform. Or, you may call them up or go see them with several colleagues.

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I’ve been asked by landscape contractors that don’t use the H-2B program, “Why should I care about immigration reform?” Whether you realize it or not, under the current broken immigration system, your business is vulnerable to legal action from the federal government for unknowingly hiring an undocumented worker or being sued by a legal applicant you rejected because you suspected them of being undocumented.

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For sure, the anti-reform forces will be out there, so it’s important that your voice as an employer and constituent be heard. So while there are no easy answers to the labor shortage, there are things we can do to improve our companies’ and industry’s future. Let’s get busy!

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D I RECTI ON S

GET RECOGNIZED

SANDY MUNLEY Executive Director The Ohio Landscape Association

I know most of you are still very busy right now, but as the early season rush begins to slow, this can be the perfect time to begin thinking about your marketing plan. The Landscape Ohio! Awards program continues to be a great way to market your company. It also serves as a wonderful symbol of the exceptional landscape work you and your team have completed over the years. As is the case with any marketing tool – especially in the landscape business – visuals are extremely important. Taking quality photos of your work is essential and serves a couple of purposes. You will not only have great photos to use in completing your LO! entry form, but you will be documenting your work and building a portfolio. And right now is the perfect time to be taking these photos. As a rule of thumb – most times – it is better to go back to projects that you have completed over the past few years. A project looks better when it has had some time to mature, as the plant materials tend to be more filled in. Many times, that ‘just finished’ landscape looks a little sparse, unless you had a budget sufficient enough to use large plant material. Sometimes waiting just a few months can help, but a year or more can be even better. And if you can capture a before photo, or two, even better! For the LO! Awards Program, you have a 5-year window to enter a project. You’ll want to include at least a couple of “magazine quality” photos in your project for use in Landscape Ohio! Magazine, as well as for possible consideration as cover art for The Growing Concern. Again, including before photos can be a plus, however, it is not a requirement.

32 x Official Publication of The Ohio Landscape Association

Each year, the Landscape Ohio! competition culminates into two great outcomes, for those who enter – The Landscape Ohio! Awards Dinner and Presentation and entry into Landscape Ohio! Magazine. Everyone who has entered the awards program is invited to the The Landscape Ohio! Awards Dinner and Presentation, held in March. The evening begins with a red carpet entry, followed by networking, cocktails, and an exquisite dinner. After dinner, an Academy Awards style presentation commences. It is always a very exciting evening, because the winners are kept secret, with attendees finding out which projects win only when the envelope is opened and the photos of the projects appear on the big screen! This semi-formal event is both festive, and inspiring. It is fun to see your peers dressed up and out of their work clothes, and to show your spouse our industry at its finest. It can also be very enjoyable to bring your employees, as a reward for their efforts. And while the purpose of the evening is to be inspired by seeing others’ work and to see which projects win, it is even more gratifying when it is your project and company announced as a winner! continued on page 34

A D V ER T IS ING INDEX

19 Botson Insurance Group, Inc. 6

Davis Tree Farm & Nursery, Inc.

Empaco Equipment Corporation

Fairlawn/Medina Supply

Irrigation Supply, Inc.

17 Klyn Nurseries, Inc. 24 Lakeside Sand and Gravel, Inc. 23

Mason Structural Steel, Inc.

Medina Sod Farms, Inc.

MRLM Landscape Materials

O’Reilly Equipment, LLC

Premier Plant Solutions

Royalton Supply / Abraxus

Shearer Equipment

Sohar’s /RCPW, Inc.

Three-Z Supply

Unilock

Valley City Supply

VanCuren Tree Services, Inc.

Zoresco Equipment Company The Growing Concern x July 2016 x 33

D I RECTI ON S continued from page 32 Since 2006, winning projects have also been featured in Landscape Ohio! Magazine, which is distributed with the May issue of Cleveland Magazine, and in select areas, Ohio Magazine. This is the missing link to most industry awards programs, because in most instances, the public never gets the opportunity to see the great work being done. With Landscape Ohio! Magazine, tens of thousands do! As a side note, Great Lakes Publishing will, again, be offering special rates for OLA members to advertise in this section, so please support Great Lakes Publishing in this partnership! You do not have to participate in the awards program to purchase advertising space. Recently, we have created a fee system that lowers the price to enter, when entering multiple projects. Meaning, the more projects you enter, the more money you save! This year, per our members’ requests, we have moved the entry deadline back to December 16th to allow you more time for entries to be prepared. Hopefully, this makes it much easier to schedule the time to enter.

This year’s entry rules, regulations and entry forms are available on our website at ohiolandscapers.org. Just click on the Awards Program button. If you do not have internet access, we would be happy to mail you this information. I am also always very happy to answer questions and help you work through the process of entering. It is very typical for first time contestants to call the office several times, and we are glad to field those calls. We want you to have the best opportunity to submit a winning entry! Finally, don’t be intimidated! There is a category for every job size and there are many specialty categories for maintenance, hardscapes, lighting, water features, etc. That said, I will let you in on a little secret . . . (hint, hint) . . . the maintenance and landscape lighting categories haven’t had a lot of entries lately, so you may want to consider entering these categories! I encourage you to enter your projects in the competition and hopefully you think of every job as a potential award winning project! Now start taking those photos! This year promises to be the most exciting yet.

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Get the recognition your company deserves! ENTER TODAY

Ohioâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most prestigious landscape enhancement awards program. 9240 Broadview Road Broadview Heights, Oh 44147 Phone: 440.717.0002 Toll Free: 1.800.335.6521 Fax: 440.717.0004 OhioLandscapers.org MyOhioLandscape.com

DEADLINE TO ENTER DECEMBER 16, 2016 RULES, REGULATIONS & ENTRY FORMS AVAILABLE @ OHIOLANDSCAPERS.ORG

9240 Broadview Road Broadview Hts., OH 44147-2517

I L C

& W I O

07/16

EMENT

ST. MICHAEL’S WOODSIDE, 5025 EAST MILL ROAD, BROADVIEW HTS., OHIO 44147

SAVE THE DATE 08.25.16 * See page 26 for more details

Encouraging Professional Standards and Promoting the Green Industry