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Deciphering Election Results

November 2014 | Volume 35, Issue 11

It’s just two days after the Elections, yet pundits’ pixy dust has already begun to settle. Yes, the GOP regained the U.S. Senate and it now controls both chambers of the Legislative Branch of the U.S. government. Yes, a total of $150 million was spent by both parties to determine control of Florida -- the largest swing state in the country -- making the governor’s contest the most expensive race in Florida history. With all of that, Rick Scott prevailed by a mere 1.19%, squeaking out a second term. And, yes, the GOP surprisingly flipped six Florida House seats in Central Florida to gain a supermajority in that chamber. Yet, what does all this mean for FNGLA member businesses?

Let’s Take a Snapshot of what FNGLA Expects to Happen in our Nation’s Capital

The “Waters of the U.S. Rule” pushed by EPA and the Army Corps of Engineers will likely go dead in the water, effectively halting the agencies’ drive to regulate waters never so intended.

We will see a renewed bipartisan effort to approve the Keystone Pipeline which, if given a timely green light, may eventually have a welcome impact on energy prices.

There will be measures, such as lowering the 35% corporate tax rate, designed to bring capital off the sidelines, including some of the $2 trillion parked offshore, to help boost the economy.

Another vote to outright repeal Obamacare is not envisioned, yet we do expect votes on narrowly crafted bills to replace some Obamacare provisions.

Piecemeal bills addressing border control and other immigration issues will surface, yet we expect a comprehensive approach will remain elusive. President Obama is expected to unilaterally issue an executive order granting a change in status or

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F N G L A ’ S M O N T H L Y P U B L I C A T I O N : D I G I T A L M O N T H L Y I S S U E L O C A T E D A T H T T P : / / G R E E N L I N E . F N G L A . O R G

Florida’s Four-Member Cabinet Re-Elected for Another Term

GovernorRick Scott

Attorney General

Pam Bondi

AgricultureCommissioner Adam Putnam

Chief Financial Officer

Jeff Atwater

How Will Florida’s Nursery & Landscape Businesses Fare?

by Ben Bolusky

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Sandy SteinFNGLA 2014-2015 PresidentPRESIDENT’S LETTER

The people I have met in the nursery, landscape and allied industries are some of the finest people I have ever known. I have learned so much from others while both conducting

my nursery business, through my time with the Wedgworth Leadership Program, and through my volunteer work with FNGLA. Yes, many have shared freely the lessons they have learned through their experiences as business people or as volunteers, and through this sharing I have seen the kind of personal character I just don’t encounter in most other areas of my life. Many of these lessons have helped me adjust and adapt to being a better businessman or leader in FNGLA. What I am most impressed by, though, is how much love is put into our agricultural vocations. Most People doing what we do would not trade places with the rest of the working world. There is something about connecting to the natural world the way we make a living (hopefully we make a living), providing natural beauty to enrich the lives of those we meet, as well as those we may never meet, but knowing what a difference in their lives our ornamental plants make.

Feeling connected to the earth through our work feels great. We know, of course, there is a lot more to being a part of growing ornamentals than just the growing. Many of us are a part of a family-owned business. We have learned often how to manage and grow our businesses through trial and error, maybe doing things the way we were taught by our parents (the big chiefs), or we may have received special training from any number of educational opportunities we partook in. Each of us realizes that we are good at some aspects of the business, great at others, and may just not enjoy other parts. In his book, “Act Like a Success, Think Like a Success”, Steve Harvey says that every one of us is born with a gift. Our gift, he says, is the single thing that you do at your absolute best, with the least

amount of effort. Mr. Harvey goes on to say this gift is available in all parts of our life. So you may be a talented grower, but being a grower is not your gift because you do not use it in all parts of your life. From my point of view, knowing what your gift is, cultivating it, and using it is all a part of living your best life. I have heard lots of people say they did not know what their gift was. Coming to understand what our gift is requires an intentional focus for most of us. I have spent my adult life working to realize where I shine. I am a first-generation nurseryman. My father was an accountant. Coming into the adult world, I had not begun to even contemplate whether or not I even had a gift. I was just blissfully ignorant of the road ahead and what assets I had, and as a result fell down many times along the way. While falling down is an important part of learning, figuring out how to best apply myself, and where it was best to ask for help from others took time. It took growing up.

Today I attend workshops, like the Florida Agriculture Financial Management Conference coming up this month in Orlando, and I read books on personal development and business leadership. I operate by the philosophy, “We’re either growing or we’re dying”. The larger goal is to live out our potentials- to be all we can be. As an entrepreneur in the nursery business this means creating an ever-growing operation, using all means possible to live up to the highest standards I see in the pillars of our industry: those amazing people I mentioned earlier who like me, have chosen this industry to apply their talents and gifts. And for many of us, this includes passing on to others who we are and what we have learned.

Sandy SteinThe Jungle Nursery (Homestead)sstein@junglenursery.com

Find Your Gift: Focus on Your True Talent“Our talents are the gift that God gives to us... What we make of our talents is our gift back to God.” -- Leo Buscaglia

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“amnesty” to some immigrants already here illegally in the U.S. The degree to which his action will be seen as poking a stick in the eyes of congressional Republicans will set the tone for future immigration compromises.

The one caveat to all of the above is yes, the Republicans control both Houses of Congress, yet President Obama owns the veto pen.

Now, Let’s See What the Florida Election Results Mean for FNGLA Member Businesses

We expect the state’s coffers will produce another sizeable budget surplus in 2015, so legislators and the Governor will have money for new spending and/or tax cuts. Releasing his budget recommendations in early February, Governor Scott is expected to continue his focus on economic growth and job creation. With a Republican-led Florida House, Senate and Cabinet, FNGLA expects a business-friendly climate in Tallahassee will continue.

With Florida Senate President Andy Gardiner (Orange County) and House Speaker Steve Crisafulli (Brevard County), water and environmental policy reform is expected to be front and center. We expect comprehensive statewide approach to addressing some of Florida’s vexing water quality and quantity issues, all while recognizing unique needs of individual watersheds and springs. Had Charlie Crist won the Governor’s Mansion, dramatic changes at the Florida Department of Environmental Protection would have been in the cards.

FNGLA has welcomed the change in culture at the Florida Department of Transportation with respect to landscaping Florida’s roads and highways. With Rick Scott’s re-election, FNGLA anticipates this refreshing approach to landscaping will continue.

Adam Putnam’s re-election as Florida Commissioner of Agriculture certainly bodes well for our entire industry from plant inspections to pest eradications to Fresh From Florida marketing. It should be noted both Commissioner Putnam and Chief Financial Officer Jeff Atwater may run for Governor in the near future.

No one can argue against land preservation and water conservation, yet one can disagree about how such should be funded. FNGLA believed an amendment to Florida’s state constitution handcuffing legislators and redirecting 33% of the annual “doc-stamp” revenues for 20 years was not the proper way to go about it. Yet, as expected, Amendment #1 passed handily.

Amendment #2, the so-called medical marijuana amendment, fell short of the 60% threshold needed to amend the state constitution. Meanwhile, the Florida Department of Health has until the middle of this month to rule on the legal challenges brought against the agency’s so-called “Charlotte’s Web” marijuana regulations emanating from the bill enacted into law this year.

A closing remark: On Election Night, I heard one of the analysts remark there are really two Americas. One is a “mid-term election year” America. The other is a “presidential election year” America. When you pore over some of the voting data from the other night, it is glaring. Less than 50% of eligible voters turned out in many voter rich counties, such as Osceola, Palm Beach, Broward and Miami-Dade. It’s no wonder so many campaign resources are plowed into the sophisticated, make-or-break, get-out-the-vote, ground games. With a bigger turnout, the Florida gubernatorial results could have been dramatically different. Yes, exercising our American right to vote does matter. Our votes do count.

FNGLA HAPPENINGS

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FNGLA HAPPENINGS

Fun and Fitness Were Top Priorities at FNGLA’s Plant Geek Ride

With nearly 75 participants, FNGLA’s Plant Geek III combined fitness and fun as FNGLA friends and family explored the Loop Trail along the north shore of Lake Apopka on October 25. Participants had the option of taking part in a 5K walk, an eight-mile bike ride or a 32-mile bike ride encompassing the entire trail.

The Lake Apopka Loop trail is known for the wide array of birds which migrate there in the fall. Orange County Audubon Chapter guides pointed out many of the unique species of birds, including bald eagles, as well as plants of interest in their natural habitat as part of

the walk and short ride experience.

Magnolia Park in Apopka near the UF/IFAS Mid-Florida Research & Education Center was the start and end location for this year’s Plant Geek III. The waterfront pavilion was a perfect spot for everyone to enjoy lunch together. Sumter Gardens Tree Nursery (Sumterville) was recognized for bringing the most participants in FNGLA’s Plant Geek III as a company fun day outing for its employees and their families.

Special thanks to Plant Geek III sponsors: Ameriscapes Landscape Management Services; Cherry Lake Tree Farm; Delray Plants; Eventsphere; Floral Design Institute; LiveTrends Design Group; Mercer Botanicals; Rockledge Gardens; Sumter Gardens Tree Nursery; UF/IFAS; and; Winter Park Cycles. Access the event photo gallery: https://plus.google.com/photos/112578394231502451597/albums/6075021390838017377?banner=pwa.

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FNGLA HAPPENINGS

Register Now to Attend TPIE: January 21 - 23, Ft. Lauderdale

Registration is now open for TPIE 2015! You may still be deciding your Thanksgiving activities, yet it’s not too early to make your plans to attend FNGLA’s signature event, the Tropical Plant Industry Exhibition (TPIE). Taking place January 21-23 at the Broward County Convention Center in Fort Lauderdale, TPIE is the only national trade event where the buyers and sellers of tropical foliage converge.

TPIE always jumpstarts the New Year with one of the best business venues in the horticulture industry. 2015 will be no exception as TPIE offers opportunities to inspire new thinking, innovate with new products and create new partnerships. Known as THE show where vendors showcase their newest products and services, TPIE offers buyers insights into market trends and design ideas.

Leveraging the importance of trends and design, TPIE’s Opening Session will feature international trend analyst, Christine Boland, as she discusses Trends & Mindsets – Creating Success Today by Anticipating Tomorrow’s Consumer Trends and Needs. Sponsored by LiveTrends Design Group and SK, this Opening Session is set for Wed., Jan. 21 at 9 a.m. and is included with your trade show admission. Christine Boland’s presentation will not only focus on social, fashion, and retail trends, it will show us how to apply them to the world of foliage and tropical plants.

The Create Theater, presented by the American Institute of Floral Designers (AIFD), returns with three days of themed how-to sessions. This year’s focus includes Plant Design Trends; Plants with a RePurpose; and, Plants as Art.

Look for a new format for the TPIE Short Course as its classes go on the road. Known as the TPIE Road Show – It’s Education on the Go! This new format offers two industry-segment tracks and tours. Each starts with general sessions in the classroom, then the venue moves to nurseries

TPIE’s Opening Session Speaker and international trend analyst

Christine Boland.

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FNGLA HAPPENINGS

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or garden centers, depending on which tour you select. The Interiorscape tour heads to the Homestead area where the sessions continue at local nurseries, while the retail tour visits three unique garden centers in the Fort Lauderdale area. The TPIE Road Show takes place on Tuesday, January 20.

New to TPIE this year will be the FNGLA Landscape Certification Exam Showcase where prospective certification candidates can preview some of the exam station layouts, as well as receive tips and clarifications from certification mentors and exam judges. This area will be located on the trade show floor and accessible throughout show hours.

After a busy day on the trade show floor, the TPIE Happy Hour, sponsored by the SunParasol Collection, brings the party outside. TPIE attendees relax by the iconic Sailfish Fountain in the convention center’s courtyard as you continue to mix business with pleasure, enjoying drinks and mild Florida temperatures.

The TPIE palette for 2015 will bring an inspiring, innovative and creative mix of plants, products, ideas and connections. It’s the event not to miss. Register by January 5th for the low price of $15. You will receive: a trade show badge good for all three days of the show; the complimentary Opening Session; Create Theater sessions; the TPIE Happy Hour; and, a chance to interact with thousands of the industry’s brightest and most creative people. If you opt to register after January 5th, the price will still be a bargain at only $30. Separate registration is necessary to attend the TPIE Road Show. TPIE hotel reservations can be made online or by calling 1-866-902-7405. TPIE host hotels offer a range in rates, locations and amenities. In several cases, the hotels include special discounts for TPIE guests when you book through Eventsphere, TPIE’s official housing bureau. For complete details on TPIE, visit www.tpie.org.

TPIE is sponsored by FNGLA as a benefit to its members and the industry-at-large. The proceeds from FNGLA’s trade shows support the many key programs and services which FNGLA offers its members and industry. Whatever the issue, a strong association and industry benefit everyone!

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FNGLA HAPPENINGS

Ready, Set, Go: MyBooth.org is Open for TPIE Exhibitors!TPIE 2015 has kicked off promotions and MyBooth.org has officially launched! Log on now for best pricing and to maximize your business’ investment and online exposure related to the show. Your individualized password was recently sent to you.

MyBooth.org is THE place for virtually everything exhibitors need to plan for success at the show. From registering personnel to ordering electric, to adding listings to the online and printed directories for the show, it’s all at MyBooth.org!

CAPTURE NO-COST EXHIBITOR EXPOSUREOnce you’ve logged on to MyBooth.org, there are a variety of FREE exposure opportunities: Show Directory Listings, Exhibitor VIP Certificates, Exhibitor “Open House” Listing, Show Promotional Postcards. Each of these items is designed to simplify your promotion efforts, showcase your business and draw more attendees to the show! Be certain to take advantange of these simple opportunities. And, don’t forget this year’s lower pricing on directory logo listings, as well as discounted rates for multiple entries into the very popular Farm Credit sponsored Exhibitors’ Showcase.

INVEST A LITTLE. GET A LOT!For minimal investment, you can capture even more attention. Stand out on the TPIE mobile web/app! While all exhibitors are included, for just $65 you can be included as a featured listing! This is part of the “Add A Logo” incentive which also adds your business logo to both the online show directory search and in the on-site show directory. This is a great value and a step towards technology as more and more of the industry’s buyers utilize digital means for ordering.

If you’re a manufacturer’s representative, a distributor, or have the need to list multiple business names for one booth, you can do so for $50. It’s called the Show Directory Cross-Listings and you can easily sign-up at MyBooth.org!

Show Directory advertising is another great way to emphasize your business’ brand image. A variety of sizes are available to suit virtually all budgets. Access Show Directory Details at MyBooth.org or contact FNGLA’s Billy Deal at bdeal@fngla.org to reserve your space.

SUPER-SIZE YOUR EXPOSURELove the idea of seeing your business promoted in the show’s common areas? Sign up for Lobby Seating Areas, Column Wraps at the front entrance, Floor Graphics at the front entrance and more! Spots are available in high traffic areas so buyers can see your name or great products before they even reach your booth. Prices start at $500 for floor graphics. Banners and column wraps start at $750.

Ranging in price from $5000 to $200, Show Sponsorships and advertising placements are an exceptional way to stand out at The Landscape Show. Sponsor the TPIE Road Shows or stand out as a sponsor of one of several key areas. Whatever your budget and visibility goals are, talk with Billy Deal to see which sponsorships best fit your company’s audience, message, and image. Showcase your business and make a lasting impression! We’re anticipating a great show for 2015: Capture attention and be a part of the action!

TPIE is produced by the industry, for the industry. When you participate in TPIE you support your own industry.

As part of a SUSTA trade mission, Canadian nursery buyers will visit the TPIE Show on January 21 looking for plant materials for their retail and wholesale outlets in Canada. For only $25, southern U.S. horticulture suppliers can meet one-on-one with these buyers to discuss their operation and give them insight into the products they have to offer. Best prospects are: flowering plants, liners, tissue culture, indoor plants, foliage plants, trees and shrubs, Ferns. To register, please contact Whitney Lett, Whitney.Lett@FreshFromFlorida.com

or call 850-617-7333. The registration deadline is December 19.

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CERTIFICATIONS

Broward Hosts Fall FNGLA Landscape Certification ExamThe final FNGLA landscape certification exams for the fall took place mid-October, bringing the number of landscape professionals newly certified in 2014 to 60.

FNGLA’s Broward Chapter recently hosted its second bilingual FNGLA Certified Landscape Technician (FCLT) exam at the UF Ft. Lauderdale Research Center. Multi-lingual landscape professionals judging and proctoring the exam assured fair judging for all.

Testing resumes this Spring with an FCLMT exam set to take place on February 7 and an FCLT exam scheduled for February 21 at SeaWorld Horticulture. Pinellas Technical College in St. Petersburg and UF Ft. Lauderdale REC in Davie will follow with additional testing. For more information, contact Merry Mott at FNGLA at mmott@fngla.org.

FCLT EXAM UF/FT. LAUDERDALE RECHosts:Robert Shoelson, FCLC, Getting GreenRob Pursell, FCLC, Getting GreenKim Moore, UF Ft. Lauderdale RECLuci Fisher, UF Ft. Lauderdale REC

Judges:Rick Blaha, FCLC, EDJ ServicesChris Cartwright, FCLT, Getting GreenWade Collum, FCLT, City of Pompano BeachCarlucio Da Rocha, FCLT, Landscaping DetailsDennis De Zeeuw, FCLT, SustainscapeTodd Flack, FCLC, 100% LandscapingVladimir Foursa, FCLC, BG KatzJack Krutek, FCLT, Krutek & AssociatesDenis Lezama, FCLMT, BrickmanCharles Livio, FCLD, City of Oakland ParkSergio Lopez, FCLT, 100% LandscapingFrank Montalvo, FCLMT, BrickmanJesus Morales, FCLT, Miami-Dade ParksSteve Rivera, FCLT, Miami-Dade ParksLarry Roscini, FCLMT, BrickmanLarry Searle, FCLC, Searle BrothersTroy Scutchings, FCLT, Miami-Dade ParksJuan Serrano, FCLT, Miami-Dade ParksWayne Simmons, FCLT, Miami-Dade ParksNed Skiff, FCLC, Skiff & CompanyGary Weitermann, FCLMT, SeaWorld

Applicants for the FCLT exam must test in 9 distinct areas of landscape installation, including Grading and Drainage.

Determining if a landscape was installed correctly – Right Plant Right Place – is required of the Job Evaluation station.

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INDUSTRY NEWSGarden Media Group Releases its 2015 Trend PredictionsGarden Media Group released its annual garden trends report for 2015. “Unearthing the Best Life” identifies nine consumer trends that will shape the garden and outdoor living industry and resonate in the coming year.

The highly anticipated trends report, published annually since 2001, finds that gardening goes hand-in-hand with a healthy lifestyle. People see both outdoor and indoor spaces as extensions of themselves and are making conscious decisions to use plants and garden products as “tools” to increase their overall well-being and lead a sustainable lifestyle.

“Now, more than ever, the garden is an extension of yourself,” says Susan McCoy, trend spotter and president of Garden Media. “What you cultivate and grow, either inside or out, reflects your personality and the healthy lifestyle you have chosen to live.”

In 2015, the report says brands are being held to ever higher standards, as customers demand that products are not only reliable but have a positive impact on the planet.

While consumers strive to preserve the planet, they also are working to change laws, the report notes. As organic and local food remains the basis for a sustainable, healthy lifestyle, people are changing the system.

According to the report, the idea of “going green” takes on a dual meaning in 2015. As more states decriminalize marijuana, consumers will also invest time in “growing their own.” The report also notes that the face of the new consumer is changing and calls out three distinctive new groups who are gardening: Millennials, Hispanics and young men.

What are some of the components that are fueling this sustainable lifestyle and contributing to eco-friendly gardens and outdoor spaces?

1. The New Consumers: People ages 18 to 35 2. Wellbeing: Consumers want to make the world a better place.3. Garden-tainment4. Bite-Sized Decadence: Small container gardens pack a lot of punch5. Rebel-hoods: Neighborhood residents rebelling against ordinances6. Color Pops: from vintage to muted rustic to teal – show off personality 7. Portable Gardening: The rise of “NOwners”– those who prize freedom over homeownership8. Bed Head Style: Purposefully un-styled outdoor spaces9. Smoke Your Garden: the new “grow your own”

For the complete report, go to: http://grow.gardenmediagroup.com/2015-Garden-Trends-Report.

Nominations Sought For FAITCExcellence in Teaching

Florida teachers in pre-kindergarten through 12th grade who use agriculture in innovative ways to teach reading, writing, math, science, nutrition and other core subject areas are invited to apply for the Florida Agriculture in the Classroom (FAITC) Excellence in Teaching about Agriculture Award for 2015. The deadline for online applications is Nov. 14, 2014.

Four winners will be selected - one each for elementary, middle school, middle school agri-science and high school levels. One overall winner will be selected from the four, and that person will go on to compete for the National Agriculture in the Classroom Organization’s Excellence in Teaching about Agriculture Award.

The four winners will receive all expenses paid trips to the 2015 National Agriculture in the Classroom Conference ‘Unbridled Possibilities’ scheduled for June 16-20 in Louisville, KY.

In addition, the overall winner will receive a $500 honorarium and the other three winners will receive a $250 honorarium each. For an easy online application, go to http://faitc.org/awards.

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INDUSTRY NEWS

Florida Agriculture Financial Management Conference Takes Place November 13 & 14The 2014 Florida Agriculture Financial Management Conference will address key financial issues producers face. Analyzing financial performance, evaluating new market opportunities and adapting to regulatory and technology changes are just some of the highlights of the conference. The conference, now in its fourth year and supported by a USDA specialty crop block grant among other influential sponsors, will equip participants with the skills to analyze their economic opportunities and challenges. The conference is being held at the Omni Orlando Resort at ChampionsGate.

The event promotes networking with colleagues and peers, the sharing of ideas and best practices, and gives attendants the opportunity to discuss the current financial market and its impact on agribusinesses. Owners and managers of Florida farms, large and small, are encouraged to attend, along with chief financial officers, controllers, CPAs, accountants, book keepers, lenders and attorneys who represent growers. CPE and CLE credits will be available.

The Florida Agriculture Financial Management Conference offers solutions and relationship-building opportunities. Anyone invested in the future of agriculture in Florida will benefit from attending and be part of building the future for us all.

Get a sneak preview of 2014’s line-up of programs: What to Expect in The Post Tapper Economy; Financial Metrics and Benchmarking; Florida Roads and Ports... Growing Florida’s Agriculture; Mid-Term Election Recap; Social Media Through the Lens of a Farm Girl - Over 27K Facebook Likes; Seasonal Climate Forecasts for Crop Planning; Business Leadership Management; 2014 Farm Bill Update; Crop Insurance; Food Safety - How to Keep From Getting Sued; and, Estate and Succession Planning. For more details or to register, go to http://www.fafmc.org.

UF Names New University PresidentDr. Kent Fuchs, provost of Cornell University, was recently named the 12th president of the University of Florida by the UF Board of Trustees. He will assume the position January 1, 2015. Dr. Fuchs brings to the University of Florida many key qualities: He is a distinguished academic who has very effectively served as provost and chief operating officer of an institution ranked 15th of all universities in the nation.

Dr. Fuchs (which is pronounced fox) brings 20 years of leadership at land grant member institutions of the Association of American Universities, including the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign and Purdue University. Dr. Fuchs has served for the past 12 years as a dean and then provost at Cornell, which, like UF, is a land-grant institution that has a wide range of colleges and professional schools.

At Cornell, Dr. Fuchs developed a strategic plan for achieving preeminence as one of the world’s top-10 universities and launched a university-wide initiative to enhance Cornell’s academic stature. Dr. Fuchs received a bachelor’s degree in engineering from Duke University, a master’s in divinity from Trinity Evangelical Divinity School and a master’s and doctorate in electrical engineering from the University of Illinois. He and his wife, Linda, have four adult children.

Dr. Kent Fuchs

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INDUSTRY NEWS

Gravely Introduces New Utility Vehicle: AtlasGravely introduces the Gravely Atlas JSV utility vehicle designed for heavy jobsite work. With a 1,900 lb. payload and 2,000 lb. towing capacity, the Atlas allows work crews to literally haul a ton. Supported by an on-demand, true all-wheel drive system and De Dion rear suspension, this Jobsite Vehicle (JSV) provides the heavy-duty traction and suspension required to maintain full ground clearance and a smooth ride even when carrying maximum loads.

“This vehicle was designed from the ground up with the contractor and facility manager experience in mind.” said Bill Engler, Director Commercial Sales. “Industry-leading features ensure that it will handle even the toughest jobs. Everything about the Atlas is designed for the jobsite. From pedal spacing that accommodates work boots to the details of the cargo bed.”

Featuring Kohler® Diesel engines, it has an all-steel MX-18 JobBox with a 1,250 lb. capacity, steel walls to prevent bowing, and four integrated tie-down points to secure cargo. The extra-large 48” x 57” bed easily accommodates standard wooden pallet. Electric cargo bed lift is standard on all Atlas models. For more details, contact Bill Collester at bcollester@ariens.com.

AmericanHort, SAF Initiate Pollinator Stewardship Taskforce In an effort to bring unbiased science to the topic of bees and neonics (as well as other pollinator and chemical issues), AmericanHort and the Society of American Florists have organized an 11-member taskforce to address this important industry issue.

The taskforce is made up of 11 members—plant breeders, growers and retailers, as well as SAF’s Lin Schmale and AmericanHort’s Joe Bischoff. In addition, two scientists, an entomologist and an expert on pollinators, will serve as advisers.

Initially, the taskforce will focus on areas of pollinator research that need attention, as well as methods of funding that research. They’ll also work on identifying pollinator stewardship guidelines for the industry that are “flexible and applicable to any size operation,” says Joe Bischoff.

The taskforce estimates $750,000 is needed to fund research. Some of that could come from federal funds. For more details on the industry’s research initiatives on neonics, visit www.HRIresearch.org or www.endowment.org.

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INDUSTRY NEWS

Bok Tower Gardens Breaks Ground on Multi-Million Dollar Expansion

Bok Tower Gardens broke ground October 24 on its largest expansion in its 85-year history. Early this year, the Lake Wales attraction announced a campaign to raise the needed funding, $12 million. It has raised $10.5 million so far which has fueled the start of Phase I projects.

The planned elements include a children’s garden, an outdoor kitchen with an edible garden, a wild garden and the oval lawn/pollinator garden. Three undeveloped acres of land north of the current Visitor Center will be used to create the children’s garden and outdoor kitchen.

The expansion, expected to be complete by late spring of 2016, will also feature restoration work on the tower, including removal of rust, sealing and painting.

“It’s an exciting time in the history of Bok Tower Gardens as we are starting to realize our vision for the future,” said David Price, Bok Tower Gardens president. “We’re making big changes as part of this first phase of our 25-year master plan.” Following a careful selection process, Bok Tower Gardens chose the landscape architecture firm of Nelson Byrd Woltz, based in Charlottesville, Virginia, to create the designs for the new garden spaces.

Phased construction at Bok Tower Gardens is slated to start this summer, with the ground breaking for the new Children’s Garden planned for this fall. It’s estimated the entire project will take 18 to 22 months to complete, and the Gardens will remain open for the duration of the expansion.

“Fortunately, the areas designated for new gardens won’t disrupt current visitation, and we’re staging construction in a way that least impacts the visitor experience,” Woltz said.

For more information, go to http://boktowergardens.org.

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MEMBER NEWS

Cherry Lake Tree Farm Teaches Local Area Children the Value of TreesSouth Lake County youngsters learned about the importance of trees through an educational program put on by Cherry Lake Tree Farm in Groveland and the Florida Urban Forestry Council. Cherry Lake Tree Farm is the largest nursery tree farm in the Southeast with more than 1,900 acres of containerized trees, shrubs and palms.

Students at Clermont Elementary learned from employees and Florida Urban Forestry Council representatives and participated in a tree planting. Similar events with a focus on plant biology and instilling an appreciation of trees were held at Cypress Ridge, Lost Lake and Mascotte elementaries, all located in Lake County.

“It was very positive,” said Chloé Gentry, Cherry Lake Tree Farm director of marketing. “The kids were really receptive.”

Speaker Tim Womick, who uses jokes, props and song, helped put smiles on kids’ faces while delivering an important message about our industry.

For more program details, contact Cherry Lake Tree Farm or the Florida Urban Forestry Council.

Students at Clermont Elementary School listen to a presentation about trees during an educational program put on by Cherry Lake Tree Farm and the Florida Urban Forestry Council. Photo: Chloé Gentry, Cherry Lake Tree Farm

Florida Communities of Excellence Awards: Call for SubmissionsThe Florida Communities of Excellence Awards is accepting nominations for its awards, most notably, the Florida-Friendly LandscapeTM Award. Sponsored by Valley Crest, the award recognizes landscape excellence in the area of Florida-friendly and landscape ecology.

Since being founded in 2009, the Florida Communities of Excellence Awards have grown every year, including a 30% growth last year, with 100 communities participating in the program.

For a list of program categories and past project/company winners, go to www.communitiesofexcellence.net.

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MEMBER NEWS

UF’s Dukes Honored With Excellence in Education AwardThe Irrigation Foundation has named Michael Dukes, PhD, PE, CID, of the University of Florida, the recipient of the 2014 Excellence in Education Award. Dukes will receive his award at the 2014 Irrigation Show & Education Conference in Phoenix.

The Excellence in Education Award recognizes a person who is actively teaching irrigation, water management and/or water conservation in affiliation with a two- or four-year institution. The award honors academics who are playing a critical role in developing educated professionals with the knowledge and skills to create efficient irrigation solutions that will protect water and the environment.

Dukes recognizes the need for irrigation specialists and encourages students interested in water and resource management to start with irrigation. At the University of Florida, he began a research program on landscape irrigation efficiency and recruited students to participate. Students evaluated smart irrigation controllers and worked with Florida agencies, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the Irrigation Association to define testing procedures and standards for these products and other types of irrigation equipment.

According to Dukes, one of his greatest achievements is mentoring and training students to make a difference by making landscapes more water efficient. In addition to his research and outreach efforts, Dukes has been very involved with IA. He has served on the association’s Technical Conference Committee and on the Executive Task Team and Technical Working Group for Smart Water Application Technologies, IA’s national partnership with water providers.

“I am grateful to be selected for the 2014 Excellence in Education Award,” said Dukes. “I enjoy working with students on applied irrigation topics. Interaction with the students is always energizing and fulfilling.” Dukes will be honored during the Irrigation Show general session on Thursday, November 20. Nominations for the 2015 Excellence in Education Award will open in January. To learn more about the award or to nominate an educator, visit www.irrigation.org/excellenceineducation.

UF Appoints Interim Environmental Horticulture ChairMultiple national award recipient, Dr. Sandra Wilson, has been named Interim Chair for the University of Florida College of Agricultural and Life Science Department of Environmental Horticulture in Gainesville. Dr. Wilson, a Professor of Environmental Horticulture at the University of Florida Indian River Research and Education Center (UF/IRREC) near Fort Pierce, has served in increasing roles of statewide departmental leadership for 15 years. The UF Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS) is UF’s land-grant mission to serve Florida’s agricultural and natural resource interests with research, teaching and extension functions. In executing her statewide role for educational and research leadership, Dr. Wilson pioneered leadership for distance education horticulture pedagogy.

Center Director for the IRREC, Dr. Peter J. Stoffella said, “Sandy has overwhelming passion, dedication, and commitment to the university and a demonstrated leadership demeanor,” he said. “She pioneered distance education for horticultural education.Therefore, her contribution was great for the betterment of student accessibility to a high quality education offered by the University of Florida to students worldwide.”

UF’s Dr. Michael Dukes

UF’s Dr. Sandra Wilson

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NEW MEMBERS

Welcome New MembersThe following are new FNGLA members: from September 22, 2014 - October 21, 2014

ACTIONSuzanne Mix (Suportive)14161 Bradbury RdOrlando, FL 32828 407-466-9500

BROWARDTropical Touch Garden CenterAdrian Adler (Associate)6951 SW 185 WaySouthwest Ranches, FL 33332 954-252-0562

FRONTRUNNERSDivision of Plant IndustryRichard Gaskalla (Supportive)1911 SW 34th StPO Box 147100Gainesville, FL 32614-7100 352-395-4700

Raney’s MitsubishiPat FisherPO Box 2315Ocala, FL 34478 352-867-1982

HIGHLANDS HEARTLANDLykes Citrus DivisionAlejandro Ramos (Associate)7 Lykes RdLake Placid, FL 33852-9582 863-465-4127

MANASOTALakewood Ranch I.D.A.Stephen Lakey (Supportive)15207 59th AveLakewood Ranch, FL 34211 941-727-0899Rec’d by: Eddie McKeithen, McKeithen Growers, Inc.

MIAMI-DADEFlorida International UniversityPaul Landrum (Supportive)11200 S W 8th St ECS 457Miami, FL 33199 305-348-2676

OUTSIDE FLORIDAMelissa Cook (Student)13841 Three Oaks RdSawyer, MI 49125

FleurizonFrank de Greef1602 Grace CtCamarillo, CA 93010 805-389-8980

OASIS® Grower SolutionsJess Lytwyn777 Stow StKent, OH 44240 330-676-4405

Olive A Dream TreeRick C. Warren2239 Gird RdFallbrook, CA 92028 800-816-1783

PALM BEACH1 Above All Growers, Inc.Craig Durrance7565 Pioneer RdWest Palm Beach, FL 33413 561-640-5459

Boyer Enterprises Inc.Boots Boyer1824 W Canal St SBelle Glade, FL 33430 561-261-0575

Garden CraftersJeff Kiper11198 Polo Club RdWellington, FL 33414 561-644-1709Rec’d by: Tom Schlechter,Everglades Farm Equipment Co., Inc.

Green Scape, Inc.William Poole1375 W Canal St NBelle Glade, FL 33430 561-261-3924Tom Schlechter,Everglades Farm Equipment Co., Inc.

Sheffield Ag ServicesClayton Sheffield1757 18 Ave NLake Worth, FL 33460 561-261-2486Rec’d by: Tom Schlechter,Everglades Farm Equipment Co., Inc.

Sod SensationBarrett Wiseman16700 W Aintree DrLoxahatchee, FL 33470 561-261-0299Rec’d by: Tom Schlechter,Everglades Farm Equipment Co., Inc.

Turf-Pro Services, Inc.Melissa EvansPO Box 2888Belle Glade, FL 33430 561-261-2117Rec’d by: Tom Schlechter,Everglades Farm Equipment Co., Inc.

Village of Royal Palm BeachArmando Puentes (Supportive)1050 Royal Palm Beach BlvdRoyal Palm Beach, FL 33411 561-790-3408

PINELLASNancy Halvorsen (Supportive)5264 24th Terrace NSt Petersburg, FL 33710 727-282-6481

ROYAL PALMCity of Naples Airport AuthorityChristine Chesser (Supportive)160 Aviation Dr NNaples, FL 34104-3568 239-643-1943

SPACE COASTDan Roper (Supportive)231 Avenida CentralIndialantic, FL 32903 321-292-0950

Calendar of EventsFNGLAPhone: 407.295.7994Toll-free: 800.375.3642Fax: 407.295.1619E-mail: info@fngla.orgWeb: www.fngla.org

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICERBen Bolusky

GREENLINE EDITORJennifer Nelisjnelis@fngla.org

PresidentSandy SteinThe Jungle Nursery29100 SW 162 AveHomestead, FL 33030(305) 246-5324

Past President Mike MarshallMarshall Tree Farm17350 SE 65th StMorriston, FL 32668-4508(352) 528-3880

President-Elect Billy ButterfieldAmeriScapes Landscape Management Services, Inc.PO Box 568762Orlando, FL 32856-5041(407) 872-0855

Secretary/Treasurer Robert ShoelsonGetting Green Plant Services & Betrock Information SystemsPO Box 840107Pembroke Pines, FL 33084(954) 680-1819

Contact UsSee and submit events at http://www.fngla.org, under calendar

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2014-2015 STATE OFFICERS

1533 Park Center Dr iveOr lando, FL 32835-5705

Read the latest FNGLA news inside & visit Greenline online at http://greenline.fngla.org

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PAIDORLANDO, FLPERMIT #2041

This publication is produced by the Florida Nursery, Growers and Landscape Association (FNGLA) as a service to its members. The statements and opinions expressed herein do not necessarily represent the views of the Association, its staff, Board of Directors, Greenline or its editors. Likewise, the appearance of advertisers or their identification as members does not constitute an endorsement of the products or featured services.

The mission of the Florida Nursery, Growers & Landscape Association is to promote and protect the success and professionalism of our members.

November7: Highlands Heartland Chapter FNGLA Golf Tournament, County Club of Sebring, Sebing

17-21: The Irrigation Show and Education Conference, Phoenix Convention Center, Phoenix, AZ

20: Green Industry Best Management Practices (GI-BMP) Training, North Ft. Myers

2O: Pruning Trees for Wind Resistance and Good Root Structure, Weston Regional Park, Weston

December2-3: Palm Management in the Landscape, Palm Beach County Extension, West Palm Beach

3, 10, 17: FNGLACertifiedLandscapeContractorTraining,Ft.Lauderdale Research & Education Center, Davie.

11: Tree Selection and Changing Urban Demands, Stardust Tree Farm, Lutz

12: CertifiedISAArboristTraining,EscambiaCountyExtensionOffice, Cantonment

18: Green Industry Best Management Practices (GI-BMP) Training, OrangeCountyExtensionEducationCenter,Orlando