the growing concern - january 2015

A p u b l i c A t 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 A t i o nConcern

The GrowingJAnuAry 2015

February OLA Meeting – ColumbusFebruary 19, 2015PAGE 7

Stone Clinic – Right Tool, Right TechniqueMarch 5, 2015PAGE 13

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The Growing Concern x January 2015 x 3

pres ident ’s column

As we closed out 2014, I hope everyone can look back at their personal and business related goals with satisfaction. Whether you are the business owner, operations manager, office support staff, or field technician your goals benefit the overall health of the company. In 1965, the goal of a few good men was to encourage the professional standards within the green industry. Sharing the same vision and ethical standards, the Ohio Landscape Association was born. Today, 50 years later that same goal still holds true of the Ohio Landscape Association.

Our Board of Directors is proud to lead the Ohio Landscape Association into its 50th year and I am truly honored for the opportunity. Not only are we turning the page but the book keeps getting better. We will continue to plan educational events, provide motivational speakers, and keep you up-to-date on industry news and trends. I encourage you to make it your

TURNING THE PAGE steve moore

S.A.M. Landscaping, Inc.

goal to get involved this coming year. We are always looking for committee members that will bring fresh ideas to the table. Please contact the OLA office for further information.

I would like to welcome Jacob Grimm to the OLA board. He comes to us as the owner of Brothers Grimm Landscaping in Clinton, Ohio servicing the Akron/Canton area since 1995. I look forward to his fresh ideas and support. After 5 years on the board including two terms as president, I would like to thank James Arch for his support of the OLA. He has decided to take his talents…. Well, we will leave that one alone. All kidding aside, I personally wish him the best of luck.

For those of you that don’t know me, I am Steve Moore with S.A.M. Landscaping, Inc. in Chardon, Ohio. I am the glue that holds our company together by managing the daily operations and filling the job

We will continue to plan educational events,

provide motivational speakers, and keep you up-to-date on industry

news and trends.

continued on page 6

FEATURES

3 PRESIDENT’S COLUMN Turning the Page

8 FOR SAFETy SAkE Don’t Tolerate Workplace Violence

10 FISCAL FITNESS Target Date Funds

14 PERENNIAL FOCUS The Fireside Reader Hellstrip Gardening: Create A Paradise

Between The Sidewalk And The Curb

18 PLANT OF THE MONTH Schizophragma Hydrangeoides Japanese Hydrangea Vine

22 MANAGING THE FAMILy BUSINESS: ARE OPTIMISTS OR PESSIMISTS BETTER LEADERS?

26 IMPORTANT CHANGES EMPLOyERS NEED TO kNOW ABOUT OHIO WORkERS’ COMPENSATION

28 DIRECTIONS Happy Birthday OLA!!

INSIDE EVERy ISSUE

29 ADVERTISING INDEx

30 WELCOME NEW MEMBERS

32 CLASSIFIEDS

tAble of contents

J A n u A r y 2 0 1 5 w w w. o h i o l A n d s c A p e r s . o r g

OFFICERSPresidentSteve Moore

President-ElectBryan Taynor

TreasurerCathy Serafin, ASLA, RLA

Immediate Past PresidentJoe Twardzik, CID

ohio’s profess ionAl green industry Assoc iAt ion

OHIO LANDSCAPE ASSOCIATION9240 Broadview RoadBroadview Heights, Ohio 44147Phone: 440-717-0002 or 1-800-335-6521Fax: 440-717-0004Web: www.ohiolandscapers.org or www.myohiolandscape.com

EDITORSandy Munley, Ohio Landscape Association

REGULAR WRITERSMichael J. Donnellan, king Financial, Inc.Jim Funai, COLP, Cuyahoga Community CollegeShelley Funai, Stan Hywet Hall and GardensSandy Munley, Ohio Landscape AssociationBobbie Schwartz, FAPLD, Bobbie’s Green ThumbSteve Moore, S.A.M. Landscaping, Inc.

ADVERTISING INFORMATIONSubmission deadline: 10th of month prior to publication month. For advertising and classified rates, please call 1-800-335-6521

DISCLAIMERThe Ohio Landscape Association, its board of directors, staff and the editor of The Growing Concern neither endorse any product(s) or attest to the validity of any statements made about products mentioned in this, past or subsequent issues of this publication. Similarly, the opinions expressed in The Growing Concern are those of the authors and do not necessarily represent the views of the Ohio Landscape Association.

OLA STAFFExecutive DirectorSandy Munley

Membership CoordinatorJean koch

DIRECTORSEric Brubeck, ASLAAdam CapiccioniJacob GrimmNathan kowalsickMaria McConnell

cAlendAr of events

u p c o m i n g o l A m e e t i n g s , e d u c At i o n s e m i n A r s A n d o t h e r g r e e n i n d u s t r y e v e n t s

JANUARYCENTS MarketplaceJAnuAry 7-9, 2015Tradeshow and educational sessions held at the Greater Columbus Convention Center. Visit the OLA Booth #1739! For more information or to register online www.CENTSMarketplace.com

OLA STONE CLINIC – STONE VENEER TECHNIQUESJAnuAry 15, 2015Learn the basics of mixing mortar, installing and grouting stone veneer. Instructed by Doug Shymske, held at Mason Steel in Walton Hills, OH. For more information contact OLA at 1-800-335-6521 or visit OhioLandscapers.org.

BELGARD UNIVERSITY – COLUMBUSJAnuAry 27, 2015Belgard University, held in conjunction with OLA will feature Solutions to the Labor Crisis (Chuck Bowen), How to Sell to Today’s Homeowner and Creating Compelling Proposals (Gary Ross), as well as Marketing Solutions (Jim Paluch) and a hands-on Belgard Product Review. Held from 8 am to 4 pm at the Fawcett Center, 2400 Olentangy River Road, Columbus. ICPC CEUs available. Pre-Registration is required. For more information visit http://www.belgard.com/calendar/belgard_university_-_columbus_oh.

BELGARD UNIVERSITY – CLEVELANDJAnuAry 28, 2015Belgard University, held in conjunction with OLA will feature Solutions to the Labor Crisis (Chuck Bowen), How to Sell to Today’s Homeowner and Creating Compelling Proposals (Gary Ross), as well as Marketing Solutions (Jim Paluch) and a hands-on Belgard Product Review. Held from 8 am to 4 pm at Corporate College East, 4400 Richmond Road, Warrensville Hts. ICPC CEUs available. Pre-Registration is required. For more information visit http://www.belgard.com/calendar/belgard_university_-_columbus_oh.


OLA MEETING – NE OHIOJAnuAry 29, 2015This meeting will feature attorneys kim Alabasi and Joshua Strickland of Dworken & Berstein Co., LPA. Held at St. Michael’s Woodside in Broadview Hts. An Overview of Legal Do’s and Don’ts from Immigration to Personnel to Contracts. Pre-registration required by January 19. For more information contact OLA at 1-800-335-6521 or visit OhioLandscapers.org.

FEBRUARYGREAT BIG HOME AND GARDEN SHOWfebruAry 6 - 15, 2015Visit the OLA garden at the Great Big Home and Garden consumer show at the I-x Center in Cleveland featuring home improvement and landscape solutions for homeowners. Members are invited to help build and staff the OLA garden. For information on the show visit greatbighomeandgarden.com.

TURF, ORNAMENTAL AND AQUATIC SEMINARfebruAry 11, 2015Advanced Turf Solutions is hosting an educational seminar featuring speakers from OSU ( Dr Joe Rimelspach) and OSU extension (Erik Draper) as well as additional speakers from the industry discussing various topics including turf, ornamental, and even aquatics. There is no charge for OLA members and lunch is included. Recertification credit for the ODA in several categories(pending). Held at the Brecksville Community Center, 1 Community Drive, Brecksville. Seating is limited. Call Aaron Bucci at 330-559-3230 or ATS’s Brecksville location 440-740-0303 to RSVP.

OLA MEETING – CENTRAL OHIOfebruAry 19, 2015This meeting will feature Charles Vander kooi. Held at the Ohio Union, The Ohio State University, 1739 North High Street, Columbus. Register by February 5 to attend. Sponsored by Belgard. For more information contact OLA at 1-800-335-6521 or visit OhioLandscapers.org.

OHIO GREEN INDUSTRY ADVOCACY DAYfebruAry 25, 2015Learn about the state-level legislative issues that could affect your business and have a unique opportunity to visit with your state Senator and Representative at the State Capitol in Columbus. Details TBA.

MARCHOLA STONE CLINIC – RIGHT TOOL, RIGHT TECHNIQUEmArch 5, 2015Learn age-old techniques to fabricating natural stone, including cutting, rockfacing and making barnstone. Instructed by British Master Stone Mason, Chris Pascoe. Held at Tri-R-Stone in Garfield Hts. For more information contact OLA at 1-800-335-6521 or visit OhioLandscapers.org.

OLA MEETING – NE OHIOmArch 12, 2015Maintaining Proper Growth In your Landscape Business presented by Jason Cupp, kincaide, Ltd., kansas City, MO. Held at Michael’s Woodside in Broadview Hts. For more information contact OLA at 1-800-335-6521 or visit OhioLandscapers.org.

JULYLANDSCAPE INDUSTRY CERTIFIED TECHNICIAN TESTJuly 23, 2015Hands-On and Written Test. Held on the campus of OSU ATI in Wooster. Pre-register by 5/20. Written test only will be given January 8 & 29, February 10 & 17, July 22 and October 6 at various locations around the state. For more information contact 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.

6 x Official Publication of The Ohio Landscape Association

pres ident ’s column

continued from pg 3

board with new projects, while my partner and brother Shawn keeps it together in the field. I graduated from The Ohio State University with a degree in Landscape Construction in 2000, followed by an internship with The Pattie Group where I found my love for design/build. In my spare time (which isn’t much) I enjoy spending time with my two kids (Alex, 8 and Lyla, 4) and wife, Mary. All who are more than patient with my busy schedule.

I encourage everyone to take advantage of the upcoming events that the OLA has to offer this winter. We have two hands-on stone clinic’s planned which will show various technique’s related to the trade. Coming up in February we have Charles Vander kooi, who never disappoints, followed by Jason Cupp at our March meeting. Jason will provide the inside scoop on maintaining proper growth within your company. For more details or to register visit ohiolandscapers.org and click on the ‘calendar’ tab.

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THREE CULTURES THAT RUN THROUGH

ALL SUCCESSFUL COMPANIES

Financial success is no accident. It takes building the right culture within your organization and executing a good plan to succeed. Charles Vander Kooi will share with us the three cultures that he has witnessed in every successful and profitable landscape company that he has dealt with. Join us to learn what these three cultures are and find out if you are on the track to success or if you need to make some changes in the way your company runs.

Charles has been involved in the construction industry for over 4 decades as an estimator and upper-management employee of companies as well as professional speaker and consultant. He has bid over a billion dollars in work over his career. As a private consultant, he has helped over 1,500 companies in their estimating/bidding systems and has lectured to over 200,000 people nationally and internationally.

This presentation promises to be informational and entertaining. Please join us for a session that might change the future of your business!

RSVP for your complimentary attendance by February 5, 2015Register online at www.ohiolandscapers.org, or call the OLA at 1-800-335-6521 or email [email protected]

OLA Meeting AnnouncementFebruary 19, 2015

CENTRAL OHIO

Open to all green industry professionals!

6:00 to 7:00 pm - Registration / Networking / Food Served

7:00 to 9:00 pm - Program and Discussion

Held At the Ohio Union The Ohio State University, 1739 North High St., Columbus, OH

NO CHARGE TO ATTEND!

Featuring

Charles Vander KooiVander Kooi and Associates, Littleton, CO

February 19, 2015

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0215 Columbus Meeting 2.indd 1 12/22/2014 4:58:58 PM

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for sAfety sAke

The Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA) defines workplace violence as any act or threat of physical violence, harassment, intimidation or other threatening disruptive behavior that occurs at the work site. Workplace violence should be a concern for employers, including those in the services industry. OSHA reports nearly two million workers are victims of workplace violence each year.

BWC recommends taking the following safety measures to ensure your work site is free from violence: •Assess the job and environment for potential violence and

security issues; •Develop procedures and provide training on personal safety; •Meet clients/customers in secure or public areas with high

visibility; •Require employees to report all incidents and threats.

In addition to the above procedures, BWC offers resources to inform your employees on how to properly handle incidents of workplace violence. These include: •Workplace violence assessment/program review; •Training courses on violence in the workplace; •Videos and publications on controlling and reducing

workplace violence.

BWC is committed to making work sites safer throughout Ohio. We also have the resources to protect your employees from other common workplace hazards such as: •Overexertion; •Cuts and lacerations; •Exposure to chemicals and temperature extremes; •Exposure to electrical shock.

More information is available about preventing injuries in the services industry by visiting https://www.bwc.ohio.gov/home/current/MediaSite/SafetyCampaign/flyers/Services.pdfTo connect with a BWC safety consultant, call 1-866-569-7805 or email [email protected].

DON’T TOLERATE WORkPLACE VIOLENCE

Workplace violence should be a concern for employers, including

those in the services industry.


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f i scAl f i tness

michAel J. donnellAnking Financial, Inc.

An investor would normally figure out the year they plan on retiring and that would be the target-date fund in which they invest. For example, an investor now with 20 years until retirement would select the 2035 target-date fund.

Target-date funds are widely considered one of the most innovative investment products of the past 20 years. For example, they will invest in growth funds with approximately 90% stocks when you are young and moving to around 50% stocks at age 65. By simplifying diversification and asset allocation, target-date funds have become 401(k) stalwarts.

They have broad appeal and are a big factor in the rising participation rate of workers, and of younger workers in particular. Nearly half of all 401(k) contributions go into target-date funds, a figure that will hit 63% by 2018, Cerulli Associates projects. By then, Vanguard estimates that 58% of its plan participants and 80% of new plan entrants will be entirely in target-date funds. In all, these funds hold just under $1 trillion.

While target-date funds may make long-term investing easy, the products are a little more complex. For example, each of the more than 600 existing target-date funds comes with its own fee structure, risk profile and asset mix, making performance measurement against any one index virtually impossible.

continued on page 12

TARGET-DATE FUNDSTarget-date funds have become a popular investment in many retirement plans. Tailor-made for those who prefer to put their investment portfolios on autopilot, these funds automatically adjust their asset mixes to become more conservative as investors approach retirement age.



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A 2025 target-date fund from one company may have a different mix of investments from another company’s 2025 target-date fund. They can be much more aggressive or conservative relative to their peers, and with different holdings of stocks, bonds and cash, it really can’t compare to an index such as the S&P 500.

In addition to being difficult to evaluate, target-date funds are inherently too generic to meet the needs of individual investors. In the context of a 401(k), it’s often one of the better hands-off options, but most investors have specific needs and goals that can be better served by selecting individual funds.

Some of the target-date funds employ a strategy of investing a certain percentage in their company’s core funds. For example, a 2035 target-date fund might have 30% in their large-cap fund, 20% in their small company growth fund, 10% international, 30% in bonds and 10% in cash or money market. An investor might prefer more in international or foreign companies or possibly in commodities or real estate. Target-date funds won’t accomplish these needs.

Another concern is that almost all target-date funds have higher annual fees than other mutual fund portfolios. Morningstar, which measures fees with a different yardstick, notes that the

asset-weighted average expense ratio for target-date funds stood at 0.91 percent in 2012, which is a little higher than the average mutual fund expense ratio of 0.72 percent.

Be aware that the shift may be too conservative as the target-date draws near. Most investors will still need those assets to growth through retirement, so having a large percentage in bonds and money markets at the actual target year may not be prudent.

Target-date funds may be appropriate for some investors, but always look for the best options for your portfolio. Talk to your financial and tax advisors for information specific to your individual needs and goals.

f i scAl f i tness

continued from pg 10

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


...most investors have specific needs and goals that can be better served by

selecting individual funds.

Firm Contact Address City State Zip Phone (______) Fax (______) Email

NAME OF ATTENDEE FEE

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TOTAL DUE $ 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

STONE CLINIC: RIGHT TOOL/RIGHT TECHNIQUEMake checks payable and send to: Ohio Landscape Association, 9240 Broadview Rd, Broadview Hts., OH 44147

Register online, by mail, by phone or fax: Phone 1-800-335-6521 • Fax 440-717-0004 • www.ohiolandscapers.org

Register On Time, Payment Received Before 02/23/15 OLA Members $129 NON Members $169Register Late, Payment Received After 02/23/15 OLA Members $159 NON Members $199

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.

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perenn iAl focus

The solution to these problems is developing a garden there that can cope. Hellstrip Gardening: Create A Paradise Between The Sidewalk And The Curb by Evelyn Hadden is a treasure trove of inspiration and solutions. I suspect that this book will motivate you to re-examine the sites where you will be able to make a difference. In the process, you will add curb appeal to your property and smiles to those who walk or drive by. These spaces could also function as rain gardens, thus absorbing water that would otherwise end up in the sewer and/or as pollinator friendly gardens. Developing gardens in parking lots can reduce the temperature in these heat islands while also reducing the evaporation of gasoline and emissions from parked cars.

The first part of the book is a series of photographs (by Joshua McCullough) of curbside gardens meant to inspire you. These gardens from across the country are quite diverse. I’ve debated for a long time about extending my garden into the treelawn so these photographs really did inspire me but they also drove me crazy because many of the plants are not identified. Although the majority of the gardens are hellstrips, some are front yards that have substituted gardens for lawn.

The second part of the book addresses specific obstacles and challenges that exist in these types of gardens by citing the experiences of other gardeners. I was particularly impressed with the


Have you or one of your clients ever despaired about the treelawn, known in some areas of the country, as a hellstrip? That space between the street and the public sidewalk is usually turf and a tree or two. Irrigation systems rarely extend that far and if your area of the country is inundated with snow, the treelawn is subject to massive amounts of salt spray. The same is true of tree beds within parking lots of shopping centers.

THE FIRESIDE READER HELLSTRIP GARDENING: CREATE A PARADISE BETWEEN THE SIDEWALK AND THE CURB

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September 2011

A p u b l i c A t 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 A t i o n GrowingConcernThe

OLA MeetingSeptember 15, 2011

Hosted by The Pattie Group

page 7

Snow & Ice Management Clinic

September 22, 2011

page 11

Dormant Pruning Clinic

September 27, 2011 – Northeast Ohio

October 4, 2011 – Central Ohio

page 30


The

Drainage ClinicNovember 9, 2011 Page 17

OLA Annual MeetingNovember 17, 2011 Page 7

Sales ClinicFor Landscape ProfessionalsDecember 13, 2011 Page 13

How To Set Goals For New Employees Page 32

GrowingoctobeR 2011

CONTACT THE OLA FOR MORE INFORMATIONphone: 1-800-335-6521 email: [email protected]

web: OhioLandscapers.org

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sections on gardening under trees and with water, whether too much or not enough. The information is applicable to all landscapes.

The third part of the book is design solutions supposedly unique to curbside gardens. Choosing a style is one of them but it seems to me that this is a choice that any designer or gardener needs to make with any type of garden, regardless of site. Choosing certain types of plants, on the other hand, is crucial to the success of a curbside garden, a usually inhospitable site. Another solution is called earthshaping, basically creating berms or rain gardens, but this excellent information is, again, applicable everywhere.

The last part of the book is a compendium of plants for specific types of sites. Each plant is well photographed, described, and detailed with its zone hardiness parameters as well as its cultural requirements.

Although the title implies that this is a book for those who want to create curbside gardens, I believe that anyone who gardens or designs should read it. All of the information is useful and even though I’ve been gardening for over forty years, I learned a lot.

THE CREATIVE SHRUB GARDEN: EYE-CATCHING COMBINATIONS FOR YEAR-ROUND INTERESTIn the world of landscape design, shrubs are often selected for their structure. Andy McIndoe, the author of The Creative Shrub Garden, believes that shrubs should, instead, be chosen for their foliage because the color, texture, and form of the leaves should be the heart of planting design. The author speaks from his experience of creating three different gardens as well as visiting gardens of all sizes and styles. While shrubs often dominate the middle layer of a landscape, they can also be used as the upper or lower layer.

McIndoe posits the thesis that shrubs provide four seasons of interest because of their permanence whereas most perennials go dormant during the winter. I would say, however, that many perennials provide structure during the winter as long as the notion of fall cleanup is spurned. What I do agree with is his thesis that a landscape can be composed solely of shrubs. As with any type of design, the focus then becomes the creation of combinations that achieve a particular mood or style.

Most homeowners today want low maintenance landscapes so the selection of these shrubs must be based on knowledge of mature size. These homeowners want color and interest all year round without spending much time pruning. The choices available now have increased geometrically within the past ten years and many more are coming. Many of the new hybrids rebloom, have colorful

perenn iAl focus

Choosing certain types of plants, on the other hand, is crucial to the

success of a curbside garden…

branches, and/or are disease resistant. Since McIndoe is an Englishman, some of the shrubs he mentions are not hardy in the Midwest but most of his choices are relevant to us.

With so many choices available, McIndoe suggests the factors that should be considered: the size of the garden (small or large?), the size of the planting area (should you widen the area to allow for groupings instead of linear planting?), the size of the shrub (will depend on growing conditions), the expected life of the shrub, the climate, the site (windy? amount of light?), and the soil type. Helpfully, McIndoe has lists of shrubs for particularly challenging growing situations such as heavy clay, wind, heavy shade, wet, and hot dry sites. He also reminds us that we need to select plants with varying peak seasons of interest so that the landscape isn’t beautiful only in the spring. If the shrub blooms, what does it look like when it’s not in bloom?

McIndoe reiterates design principles that are crucial in creating shrub combinations: color balance when using strongly colored plants, repetition to create rhythm and unity, massing to create drama, layering to create contrast, variety to create interest.

I was fascinated by McIndoe’s scheme for planting a large area that was formerly all turf. He would plant some trees and groupings of large shrubs in circular planting beds cut into the turf, thus creating structure. As these plants mature, complementary plants could be added. This scheme negates the necessity of doing everything at once; instead, it is done in phases.

I was particularly interested in the section on combining shrubs to create moods and styles. McIndoe always starts with three small to medium-size shrubs that work well together and suggests three additional shrubs that would combine well with them to create a larger planting. He also has ideas for larger background plants as well as some perennials, bulbs, or climbers for foreground areas. Immediately after this section is a plant directory composed of the plants that he has used in his combinations. The last section of the book focuses on planting and maintenance advice for shrubs in the ground or in containers.

McIndoe has an excellent eye and we can all benefit by examining his combinations and using them as a guide to creating our own.

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

perenn iAl focus

THE LIVING LANDSCAPE: DESIGNING FOR BEAUTY AND BIODIVERSITY IN THE HOME GARDENThe first two books I’ve reviewed focus on either a specific site or a specific type of plant. The Living Landscape: Designing For Beauty And Biodiversity In The Home Garden, by Rick Darke and Doug Tallamy, is more encompassing. Blending Rick’s perspective as a plant ecologist/horticulturist/landscape designer and Doug’s as an entomologist/behavioral ecologist/ornithologist has resulted in a book focused on how native plants can play essential as well as functional roles in gardens designed for multiple purposes.

I was impressed with the emphasis on durability, i.e., the capacity to thrive over a long period of time without being highly dependent on “resource-consuming maintenance” which I interpret as irrigation, and with the recognition that natives are not always better adapted than exotics. The best landscapes are a combination of both. Both authors offer this book as a means by which we can create landscapes that support life without sacrificing aesthetics. I’ve long believed that no matter how functional landscapes may be, e.g. rain gardens, if they are not beautiful, they will not be adopted.

Unfortunately, the typical urban/suburban landscape is boring and lacks many of the living layers that characterize functional ecosystems but because that is what we are used to seeing, it has become acceptable. This thoughtful book is an effort to change that norm and attempts to educate us on reintroducing the needed layers to residential landscapes. Without all the layers that provide food and shelter, we lose many of the birds and insects that are endemic to them.

Chapter One looks at wild systems with the woodland as a prime example and delineates the layers, both vertical and horizontal, that compose it. However, it also includes a section on wetlands because many properties have an area that doesn’t drain well. In the past, and even today, the usual solution is installing a drainage system instead of selecting plants that thrive in this habitat. The discussion of layers also touches on temporal layers (time and opportunity) and cultural layers, i.e., the effects that “civilization” has imposed on the land, and the ensuing vegetational patterns.

Chapter Two looks at the way plants and wildlife interact in a regional ecosystem. I knew a bit about the importance of these specialized interrelationships but was overwhelmed by the detailed examples put forth.

Chapter Three asks and answers the question, “What does your garden do for you and for the environment?” Gardens can protect our watersheds and biodiversity, improve air and soil quality,


moderate extreme weather, and sequester carbon. I learned that the amount of rainfall is directly tied to the number of plants in a given area. Do you love birdsong? If so, you need to plant trees that support their needs. Do you love plants? If so, you need to provide nesting sites for pollinators which service them.

Chapter Four provides examples and strategies for developing one’s ability to see the local biological diversity that we often overlook while Chapter Five applies these concepts and strategies to the home garden. The authors would posit that most gardens have been an attempt to beautify our environment without thought to designing layered, biologically diverse, and functional landscapes. Being practical is not incompatible with these goals or with creating spaces that give us pleasure. I really like use of the term organic architecture. Instead of inserting hard surface walls and surfaces into our landscape, it suggests that we delineate spaces with vegetation instead. It is less costly and has less impact on the environment.

The last part of the book is a series of charts by region that specify, by the use of symbols, which landscape and ecological functions are filled by the plants mentioned in the book.

Read this book slowly so that you can absorb all of its philosophical and ecological threads. Although this is a highly educational, thoughtful and thought-provoking book, it is also a delight to the eyes because the photographs, most by Rick Darke, are works of art. They made me want to walk very slowly in the natural landscape so as not to miss any of its multitudinous details. you probably know by now that I am in love with this book.

Darke, Rick and Tallamy, Doug, The Living Landscape: Designing For Beauty And Biodiversity In The Home Garden, Timber Press, Portland, OR, 2014, $39.95.

Hadden, Evely J., Hellstrip Gardening: Create A Paradise Between The Sidewalk And The Curb, Timber Press, Portland, OR, 2014, $24.95.

McIndoe, Andy, The Creative Shrub Garden: Eye-Catching Combinations For Year-Round Interest, Timber Press, Portland, OR, 2014, $29.95.

plAnt of the month

Jim funAi, colpCuyahoga Community College

shelley funAiStan Hywet Hall and Gardens

Say hello to climbing hydrangea’s cousin, Schizophragma hydrangeoides. Now, let’s get down to some Latin business and sort these two plants out. Both are in the family of Hydrangeaceae which includes all Hydrangea as we know them. The climbing hydrangea you are used to using and loving is known as Hydrangea anomala subspecies petiolaris. The genus name of Hydrangea puts it with the true Hydrangeas, just as an “anomaly” in habit (all others are shrubs). Schizophragma on the other hand sits in a genus all its own, with just a few members, all of which are climbing vines. The Latin name Schizophragma means “split wall” in reference to the very insignificant seed pods which have two compartments.

SCHIZOPHRAGMA HYDRANGEOIDESJAPANESE HYDRANGEA VINEWe are willing to bet you know and love climbing hydrangea. Likely, you have planted many a climbing hydrangea on a client’s property to bring them year round beauty on a fence, tree, brick building, or other structures. One drawback you may have noted over the years of using the plant is the reach it starts to make away from the structure you have it on. When maturing, climbing hydrangea behaves like many clinging vines in that branches form away from the main plant and can reach several feet away from the structure. Perhaps this effect is desired in some settings but may be unwanted in others where the softening effect of a vine is needed but space is limited.


We should ask why Schizophragma is divided into its own genus and the answer is what makes this plant so notable and worthy of more use in the garden. As you picture the beautiful blooms of climbing hydrangea in your mind you see a lacecap style


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This plant tends to stay rather flat against the item it is clinging to and

will serve better in a crowded area …

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plAnt of the month

inflorescence (a corymb [flat topped cluster of blooms] of very small fertile flowers surrounded by a much larger and showier ring of sepals in bright white). The sepals, which are often referred to as the sterile flowers, comprised of 3 to 5 parts offer the showy-ness of the inflorescence and serve as the draw to catch eyes of passing pollinators. Most of these “sterile flowers” are about 1 inch across. On Schizophragma however, the sepals are borne as one single large platform up to 1¼ inch across. We find the overall effect of flowers to be more eye catching on Schizophragma reaching up to 10 inches across. Flowers are also a bit behind H. a. subsp. petiolaris finding full effect in early July in our garden.

Interestingly, both species of beautiful vines are found growing side by side in their native Japanese forests even intermixing on the same tree trunk at times. This is a great indication that Japanese Hydrangea Vine requires similar cultural conditions as Climbing Hydrangea. Seek a location offering bright light/sun with perhaps some protection from late afternoon summer sun. you will find it adaptable, like its cousin, between nearly full sun to a fair amount of shade. Expect more prolific blooming in higher levels of sun exposure. Soils should not be neglected. Be sure to provide a good amount of organic material, deep, and very well-drained. This plant is accustomed to forest soils which are high in OM, deep, and well-drained. Deviation from this type of soil will only serve to slow this already slower growing vine down.

We have found that while Schizophragma will develop splitting outer bark that peels back in an ornamental fashion (winter interest), it does not seem to be as prolific an effect as that of H. a. subsp. petiolaris. Back to our point about climbing hydrangea reaching a few feet off the wall and trying to take your hat off, Schizophragma will behave much better. This plant tends to stay rather flat against the item it is clinging to and will serve better in a crowded area such as a patio or walkway placed close to a wall. We have also seen very beautiful effect with the vine climbing the trunk of mature trees but not overreaching and creating too much visual mass.

It may be good to point out that both of these vines grow as a clinging vine. While some vines (Wisteria, Clematis, Akebia) climb by spinning around and around their support and some vines (Ampelopsis, Vitus) climb with small tendrils the hydrangea vines use many small root-like hairs to hold on. This can be an advantage when considering what it takes to hold onto a brick wall where the two former types would have nothing to grab, the clinging type of vine can hold onto nearly any surface. This makes hydrangea vines

useful for wooden structures of any size, tree trunks, buildings, etc. The caution that must be presented is should you need to prune back or even remove the vine you may have difficulty safely pulling it off the structure. It should also be noted that there will be a number of rootlets left clinging to the structure that you won’t be able to remove unless the surface is safe for some serious pressure washing.

Expect Schizophragma to eventually grow to fill the area on which it is given to climb. While it isn’t the fastest vine out there, it can easily grow to 30 feet or more with some time. We would argue that a vine that doesn’t seek to set new land speed records is preferred over some of the nearly instant coverage vines that end up overgrowing their welcome.

Last summer while exploring the J.C. Raulston arboretum at North Carolina State University, we came across a huge specimen of the cultivar we have growing in our own garden at home. ‘Moonlight’ is the name of this cultivar and it is simply beautiful in the garden and breathtaking at the arboretum. Leaves of ‘Moonlight’ have a silver mottling cast across the entire leaf surface, not quite a variegation, more of a dusting of color across it. If you will be planting the species in more shade than sun, this is the cultivar to choose. The silver mottling will add brightness to the area and when in bloom the larger than species flowers will catch the eye of even the most nonobservant garden goer.

Bill Hendricks of klyn Nurseries makes an exciting suggestion in his catalog that we would love to experiment with for another cultivar called ‘Roseum’. With a pink to rose blush on the sepals you can interplant this cultivar with regular climbing hydrangea to extend the bloom effects and add some color to the area. What an exciting two plant combo to grow up a north faced wall or other shady spot needing some color kicking around.

While Schizophragma isn’t found at every nursery or garden center, it is worth the search and will certainly take your designs to a new level of unique and beauty.

Jim Funai is full-time faculty at Cuyahoga Community College, a PLANET accredited, associate of applied science in horticulture degree program, offering many paths to higher education to the green industry. He has an MS from Colorado State and is a licensed arborist. Shelley Funai is the Grounds Manager at Stan Hywet Hall and Gardens in Akron, Ohio that offers a historic estate designed by Warren H. Manning and a beautiful manor house museum. Both are graduates of The Ohio State University. Contact Jim and Shelly via email at [email protected]


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Optimism and pessimism are strong, stable traits that reflect our coping strategies. We live in an uncertain world. To cope with uncertainty, most people basically assume that things will either turn out well (the optimists) or turn out badly (the pessimists).

So here’s a question to ponder: Is it better to have an optimist or a pessimist leading your family organization?

As I’ll show below, both have their own unique traits that can benefit a business. But they will do it in different ways, with different goals.

Which are you? Here’s a quick test. I plunk down two magazines in front of you. One, Time, has Warren Buffet on the cover, under the headline “The Optimist.” The

In general, optimists are best suited to lead family-run entrepreneurial organizations. At least until disaster strikes.

John A. Davis explains why both perspectives are so valuable.

by John A. DAvis



MANAGING THE FAMILY BUSINESS:

Are Optimists or Pessimists Better Leaders?

January 29, 2014LEGAL CHECK-UP

The beginning of the year is a great time to review the way you are doing business. Are you protecting your assets? Ms. Alabasi and Mr. Stickland with cover a plethora of legal topics. Among those discussed will be: • I-9 Compliance•E-Verify•H2B & H2A Seasonal Visas•Employment Based Permanent Residency

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Documentation•The 3 Ds: Divorce, Death, and Disability•Enforcing Intellectual Property Rights•Contracting Best Practices•Vendor/Supplier Contracts•Customer Agreements•Employee Relations• Independent Contractor vs. Employee•Employee Handbooks•And more!

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other publication is ThePessimist.com, whose tagline is “Expecting the worst. Never disappointed.” Which do you pick up first?

It’s probably a good thing for us that so-called rationalists (tagline: “Why so emotional?”) are in the minority, because studies show that without optimism or pessimism people don’t accomplish as much. These natural traits motivate people to take action-different actions, but at least action.

ARE YOU A PESSIMIST?If you’re a pessimist, you tend to focus on safety and security. Pessimism drives you to seek and find safe havens, establish clear advantages, and protect resources. When pessimistic about needed economic recovery, for instance, families save money and companies build war chests. When the news is bad and likely to get worse, a pessimist is your best ally because pessimists thrive on fixing errors.

To get the most out of the pessimist in your family-owned company, researchers say, you need to provide “targeted negative feedback” from a trusted authority. Pointing out what has gone wrong or what’s less than perfect will motivate the pessimist to innovate products, improve plans, and solve problems. For this reason, pessimists can make good operational leaders. But pessimists in the corner office or leading the family are less likely to foster a culture of growth, risk taking, and wealth creation.

According to Jeremy Dean, a researcher at University College London, optimists prefer to think about how they and others can advance and grow. Optimists also have larger social networks, solve problems cooperatively, and are more likely to seek help in difficult situations. They make good spouses. People with optimistic spouses were healthier in a 2014 study by researchers at the University of Michigan.1 To energize an optimist, positive feedback is absolutely essential, because the optimist builds on incremental achievements and a sense of positive movement.

Choose optimists to lead growth activities in your family organization. Entrepreneurs, for example, are much more likely to be optimists. But if you choose an optimistic business leader, you should probably pair them with “reality testers,” not necessarily authority figures, advises University of Pennsylvania professor Martin Seligman, the father of positive psychology.



John A. Davis is a senior lecturer at Harvard Business School where he teaches and researches in the family business, family wealth, and life planning fields. He is also founder of Cambridge Institute for Family Enterprise.

For decades, scientists regarded optimism and pessimism as fixed traits we are born with. But last year, researchers at a German University reported that 18-39 year-olds were more optimistic than people 40-64, and far more than people 65 and older.2 For reasons we don’t fully understand but can appreciate, life experience turns some people into pessimists. By the way, the same study of 40,000 people also found that grumpy people live longer. Their caregivers? you guessed it: Optimists.

USE THE POWER OF BOTH TRAITSLeaders, whatever their orientation, need to learn to harness the power of both traits. “In a striking turnaround,” writes Annie Murphy Paul in Psychology Today, “science now sees optimism and pessimism not as good or bad outlooks you’re born with but as mindsets to adopt as situations demand.”

When testing strategic plans, deploy defensive pessimism, imagining all the things that can go wrong in the future. But when the task requires flexibility and had work toward uncertain goals, build teams with optimists.

As a determined optimist who has grown a bit more pessimistic during my life, I do want to share one important finding from my 35 years of field research: Effective long-term planning and investment requires an optimistic approach, with contingency planning by pessimists—because things never go exactly as you want them to.

FOOTNOTES:1. kim et al. Journal of Psychosomatic Research, 2014. Vol. 76

Issue 6. 2. Lang et al. Psychology and Aging, 2013. Vol. 28, No. 1.

…a pessimist is your best ally because pessimists thrive on fixing errors.

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Group retrospective enrollment deadlines have also changed, from the last business day in April to now the last business day in January. All of this is necessary to help facilitate the change to prospective premium, where employers will pay their premiums prior to receiving coverage, which is in line with most every other insurance program.

The Ohio BWC will issue a transition credit to avoid double billing employers as they move to the new model, covering the time frame January 1, 2015 through August 31, 2015. Employers will still be required to report their payroll for this time frame, but will not have to pay the premium coinciding with this period.

Our Group Workers’ Compensation Plan administrator, CareWorks Consultants, will be holding free webinars in January to discuss the group retro program and the transition to prospective premium.

Important Changes Employers Need To know About Ohio Workers’ CompensationOhio employers who pay into the state funded workers’ comp program (the Ohio BWC) have been conditioned to renew their group rating every February; until this year. With changes to how premium will be collected from employers, moving from a retrospective model to a prospective model, also come new deadlines for program enrollments. Previously, employers enrolled in group rating the last business day of February. With the new model, employers were required to enroll in traditional group rating the Monday prior to Thanksgiving.

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Tuesday, January 27, 201510:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.Reserve your webinar seat now at:https://www3.gotomeeting.com/register/139751323For more information on the changes please contact CareWorks Consultants’ kristen Troesch at [email protected] or 614-526-7247.

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sAndy munleyExecutive Director

Ohio Landscape Association

HAPPy BIRTHDAy OLA!!2015 marks the 50th Anniversary of the OLA! keep your eyes open throughout the year as we reveal fun facts, stories, and old photos of our history. We are also planning a big bash with fun and dancing for the fall. We will keep you posted as our plans unfold. We will also be looking for sponsors for this event.

This year, we do not have as many changes on our board as we sometimes do, but we do have some major changes in the office. As I mentioned last month, Jean has retired after just shy of 20 years of service to the OLA to spend more time with her grandchildren. When you call the office this January, you may hear a new voice answering the phone. Behind that new voice is a great addition to the OLA staff, Susan Whitlam. She will be our new Membership Coordinator. She will take on the duties that Jean previously had, such as keeping our database up-to-date, invoicing, receiving payments, and registration for OLA events. Please be sure to make Sue feel welcomed!

Also, Brett has moved on. He has taken another position and we have narrowed the field down to just a couple of candidates and will be replacing him soon. But, no worries – we have some great candidates!

I would like to welcome our new board member, Jacob Grimm (Brothers Grimm Landscaping). I am sure that he will bring a fresh perspective and new ideas to the OLA. And unfortunately, James Arch is moving off our board to allow Joe Twardzik to take his seat as Immediate Past President. James has contributed much over the past several years and has always provided that “voice of reason” at just the right moment during our board meetings. Luckily, James

has offered to be a part of our membership committee. Thank you for your past service James…and I am thrilled that you want to stay involved! I am also grateful that we have Joe Twardzik for another year on the board. He is an “idea man” and is willing to toss out ideas to stir up the conversation and get people to think creatively.

All in all, we have been so fortunate to continue to attract great people to participate on our board of directors. And, I have found that most board members say they really get as much or more out of being on the board than they put in, so it is a very worthwhile experience. And it is very much appreciated!

At the end of this month, our OLA garden construction will begin for our garden at the Great Big Home and Garden Show. Please let me know if you are interested in helping to construct, staff, or teardown the garden. We can always use more help with it! ken Sasak of Sasak Landscaping is our chairperson and project manager this year. He is a great guy and we are excited to have him leading this year’s garden.

I hope that you might be inspired to get more involved with the Ohio Landscape Association by helping with the garden or joining an OLA committee. Generally speaking, committee work is not a

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huge time commitment, but it is very helpful to us and a great networking tool for you. It is also the first rung on the ladder (so to speak) to becoming a future board member, if you have interest in that. Not all our committees have been very active over the last couple of years, but it is our goal to change that. Some of our committees have done exemplary work and we hope to use them as a model. We will hold a general committee informational meeting (for all committees) immediately before our January meeting on January 29th, so please call me for more information if you might be interested in attending. If you want to be part of a committee, but cannot attend on the 29th, let me know and I will be sure you get added to a committee roster.

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NAME OF ATTENDEE FEE

$ $

TOTAL DUE $ 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

STONE CLINIC: VENEER TECHNIQUESMake checks payable and send to: Ohio Landscape Association, 9240 Broadview Rd, Broadview Hts., OH 44147

Register online, by mail, by phone or fax: Phone 1-800-335-6521 • Fax 440-717-0004 • www.ohiolandscapers.org

Register On Time, Payment Received Before 01/05/15 OLA Members $59 NON Members $89Register Late, Payment Received After 01/05/15 OLA Members $89 NON Members $119

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.

Presented by

This hands-on clinic will teach the basics of mixing mortar, installing and grouting stone veneer. The techniques you will learn can be applied to both manufactured and natural stone.The demand for veneers has increased and this is a great opportunity to learn how to apply it in house. Stop subcontracting it out and increase your profits!Continental breakfast will be served.Register online at www.ohiolandscapers.org REGISTER EARLY - class size is limited to only 20 participants and will sell out quickly!

January 15th

20159:00 am to 12:00 pm

Held atMason Structural Steel

Walton Hills, OH

Instructed by

Doug ShymskeMason Structural Steel

Sponsored & Hosted by

Qualifies for 3 CEUs for Landscape Industry Certified

STONE CLINICOLA EDUCATION SERIES

S T O N E V E N E E R T E C H N I Q U E S

2015 Stone Clinic - Veneers.indd 1 11/17/2014 7:06:59 PM


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for an up-to-date listing of all classified/help wanted ads, please visit ohiolandscapers.org

OPENINGS - ACCOUNT MANAGER + DESIGN/ARCHITECT/SALES + SALES

Moscarino Outdoor Creations is an award winning design company, a leader in commercial lawn maintenance/snow management and has exceptional opportunities to join our team of professionals as we expand our service line:

LANDSCAPE ACCOUNT MANAGERLANDSCAPE DESIGNER/ARCHITECT/SALESLANDSCAPE BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT SALESLANDSCAPE PROJECT MANAGER

Compensation packages will be tailored for experienced individuals. Valid Driver’s License Required. EOE/Drug and Smoke Free Workplace.

PLEASE SEE OUR WEBSITE FOR FULL LIST OF JOB POSITIONS AND JOB DESCRIPTIONS: www.createmylandscape.com/job-opportunities/

EXPERIENCED HARDSCAPE INSTALLERS

Looking for ExPERIENCED hardscape installers. Great pay / full-time positions available. Call (440) 786-9840.

LANDSCAPE DESIGNER / SALES

Seeking Landscape Designer / Sales. Experienced preferred; can work from home. Call (440) 786-9840.

LAWN MAINTENANCE ACCOUNT MANAGER

Vizmeg Landscape is searching for a hardworking and passionate team player to come on-board and help GROW and manage our Landscape Maintenance accounts.

As an Account Manager you will need to know the Green Industry; from horticulture to managing a broad range of generations who are starting or ending their careers in the industry. We need yOU to help sell new jobs and HELP keep our clients LOVING US!

A beautiful landscape doesn’t happen by itself – Join our team to keep our accounts and clients GROWING and LUSH!

Mission: Provides direction and leadership to the Landscape Maintenance Team. Maintenance services performed by the team are detail oriented and designed to provide only the highest level of service and profitability.

Job Responsibilities and Duties: Sales to existing and prospective clients, both residential and commercial; Assists with planning and scheduling of all phases of Lawn Maintenance work; Confirmation of quality in all field work performed; Managing human resources (selection, hiring, training, evaluations); Working with Field Manager to handle customer complaints and resolve any issues; Retain existing clients; Directs general operation of the Maintenance team; Efficiently schedules clients to routes; Ensures material are available for crews use; Implements training programs with Field Supervisors; Participates in weekly safety tailgate meetings; Trains team members on equipment and expectations; Makes recommendation to Division Manager; Up sells to clients for additional landscape work and services not currently provided; Ensures the satisfaction of clients with the services that are provided; Takes an active roll in weekly monitoring of actual man hours vs. budgeted man hours on the clients property and make suggestions to Crew Leaders and or clients on a solution.

Education/Experience: Associates degree in Horticulture or an equivalent combination of education and experience as determined by the hiring manager. A minimum of 3 year’s experience with similar job and scope. Maintain or acquire Pesticide License; Maintain or acquire CLT Maintenance.

Vizmeg Landscape is one of the leading landscape firms in Northeast Ohio with over 90 team members. We have successfully been in business for over 20 years and each year continues to grow. Our expertise ranges from Landscape Design to Snow Removal and from Design/Build to Multi-faceted full service Landscape Maintenance.

To be considered for any opening, please send your resume to [email protected]. Thank you!

LANDSCAPE/HARDSCAPE FOREMAN

A Landscape Foreman oversees and works landscaping projects, both commercial and residential; Responsible for Softscape tasks such as; planting, seeding, topsoil applications, mulching and pruning; Responsible for Hardscape tasks such as; patio installations, deck installations, walls, concrete applications, irrigation and lighting; Manages the creation of landscape features; such as flowerbeds, water features, ponds and fountains; The job requires heavy lifting, up to 70 lbs; Ability to operate heavy equipment used on the job; Skid steer, Excavator, Trencher, Tractor, Sod Cutter, Tiller, Tamper, Carpentry Tools and Hand Tools; Must have a broad knowledge of plants, shrubs and trees commonly used in the region; As the leader

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of a working crew, the foreman must have excellent communication skills – able to communicate effectively and able to listen to details of the job from other managers; Ability and confidence to initiate changes and improvements while maintain forward direction; Layout and installation experience of plants, hardscape, masonry, carpentry, and excavating, grading, drainage and snow removal; Ability to develop self and those reporting to you; Prepares soil, loads and unloads materials and equipment; Must have a valid driver’s license.



LAWN CARE APPLICATOR

Duties and Requirements: Ability to identify weeds, lawn diseases and insects; Applies fertilizers and pesticides to lawns according to season, schedule and label instructions; Ability to safely handle and apply the appropriate amount of lawn fertilizer and herbicides; Ability to safely operate and maintain a work vehicle, must have a valid driver’s license; Communication with customers, responds in a timely manner; Measures lawns and provides estimate of service; Assures the timely and accurate execution off all service call logs and customer care notes; Ability to lift 20 to 30 lbs. frequently and up to 50 to 80 lbs. occasionally; Have an aptitude for grounds-keeping/landscaping; Ready to work in all types of weather; Thorough reports to both customer and manager on services provided; Perform other duties as required. Licensed applicator preferred, but not required. MUST have experience. Must be able to pass criminal background check, have a VALID DRIVERS LICENSE and pass a pre-employment DRUG TEST.



LAWN MAINTENANCE FOREMAN

Duties and Requirements: Ability to run and manager a 2-man crew lawn maintenance route; Ability to work with lawn maintenance landscapers and instruct properly; Ability to perform daily tasks within budgeted man hours; Understanding of equipment and the proper pieces to use with the different weather conditions; Understanding of basic turf grass, weed and pests; Ability to look at and manager entire landscape for both turf and landscape beds; Conduct regular tailgate safety meetings; Proper care of tools/equipment on job site and safety lock up tools when not in use; Develop and maintain motivated, effective crews; Ability to identify 50 common plants on CLT list by common and botanical names. Must have experience as a Foreman or Supervisor on a Maintenance Crew and have a Valid Driver’s License.

Vizmeg Landscape is a Drug Free Workplace and Equal Opportunity Employer. We look forward to receiving your information and hope that you’ll be JOINING our TEAM SOON!



SUPERVISOR

Growing landscape design build company is looking to hire a self-motivated individual with at least three years’ construction experience: paid holidays, paid vacation, profit sharing, 401k, and health insurance are all available with this position. This will be a full-time, year-round position with a competitive pay scale.

Please call 440-564-1157 or email resumes to [email protected].




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LANDSCAPE DESIGNER

Seeking a landscape designer with a degree (or equivalent industry experience) in design/ build with a minimum of 5 years industry experience. Requirements include: construction knowledge; strong computer skills, including CAD; generating sales by following up with sales leads and presenting client with a landscape design and proposal for installation; excellent oral and written communication skills; organized, creative and self-motivated. Compensation packages will be tailored based upon individual experience. Paid holidays & vacation, 401k, profit sharing, health insurance available.

Resumes can be emailed to: [email protected]

LANDSCAPE MAINTENANCE SUPERINTENDENT

Hemlock Landscapes, a growing full service company in northeast Ohio for over 33 years, is seeking a creative, flexible, knowledgeable, and experienced Landscape Maintenance Superintendent. Applicants should have extensive knowledge of materials, maintenance techniques, equipment operation, and crew management. Candidates should have a proven career track record of 3 years minimum. A degree in horticulture is a plus as well as bilingual ability. We offer a competitive wage and benefit package.

If you are interested in being part of an achieving team growing the business, email your resume to: [email protected]

MECHANIC

The Mechanic is responsible for all general maintenance and repairs to lawn equipment, snow equipment, company vehicles, and trailers. Maintaining a clean shop and work environment is a must. He or she is also responsible for setting up storage room of mechanic supplies and parts. Setting up regular maintenance schedules for trucks and equipment. During the summer months, deliveries of landscaping material is a possibility. We are a Drug Free work place. Please call 330-753-8480 or email resume to: [email protected]

LANDSCAPE FOREMAN

The Landscape Foreman takes full responsibility for the crew and all aspects of it; ensuring results for efficiency, quality, and customer satisfaction within budgeted man hours. In addition, the foreman takes full responsibility for tools, equipment, vehicles, trailers, etc.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:Responsible for daily landscape install./ crew operation. Ability to read blueprints and fill out paperwork properly. knowledge of landscape/ lawn install., including both rehab and complete ground-up install. knowledge of various types or methods of lawn install. Ability to operate landscape machinery. knowledge of plant care and pruning. Ability to lead and give instruction to 2-3 man crews. Valid Driver’s License and experience required. We are a Drug Free work place.

Please call 330-753-8480 or send resume to: [email protected]

LAWN MAINTENANCE FOREMAN / LANDSCAPE CONSTRUCTION FOREMAN / CREW MEMBERS

The Brothers Grimm Landscape & Design Co. is looking to bring on new people to help us grow. Openings for Lawn Maintenance Foreman, Landscape Construction Foreman, and crew members are currently available. We offer year round employment, benefits, and the opportunity for a salaried position. Valid license with a clean MVR required. Call 330-715-5863 or email [email protected] with interest or questions. We are a Drug Free Employer.

QUALITY STONE VENEER

Amish CraftmanshipThe experience and expertise that goes into

all of Prestige’s manufactured stone veneer

ensures a durable and time-tested quality

product. And with a huge selection of colors

and stone types, you’ll find exactly what you

need to complete the look of any project.

6745 School Street, Valley City

330-483-3400 • ValleyCitySupply.com

ValleyCitySupply.com

9240 Broadview Road

Broadview Hts., OH 44147-2517

01/15

Our sincere appreciation to our

2014/2015Meeting Sponsors

Silver LevelBotson Insurance Group

Bronze LevelDavis Tree Farm/Nursery

Valley City SupplyZoresco Equipment

Emerald Level

support those who support you

NE Ohio Meeting Sponsors:

Central Ohio Meeting Sponsor:

Meeting Sponsors 2014-15 OBC.indd 1 12/22/2014 5:36:39 PM

the growing concern - january 2015

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