ALCA January/February 2023

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PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE

A New Chapter

“What the New Year brings to you, will depend a great deal on what you bring to the New Year” - Vern McLellan.

In reflecting on a very successful 2022, I would like to recognize and show my gratitude to our fierce leaders, CEO Judy Gausman and our outgoing President Dwight Faires. I would like to thank both of them for all of their hard work and dedication to this remarkable organization. Under their leadership, ALCA was ranked in the top 10 associations in Arizona in 2022 and I am excited and eager to keep this honor as I assume the role of President.

NEW MEMBERS

Branch Management Tree Service LLC

David Schmidt

7950 E Starlight Way, Unit 113 Scottsdale, AZ 85250 (480) 970-1315 | sales@aztreedoctor.com https://aztreedoctor.com Branch

We understand all too well that there are many reasons why your tree may need service, or as we like to put it tender loving care. From diseases to beetle infestations, dead limbs to storm damage, our professional team has been handling your most complicated tree-related problems for over 30 years valley-wide.

Associate Class 1

California Palm Growers

Derrick Boscarino

2489 N 149th Lane Goodyear, AZ 85395 (480) 290-2750 | derrick@cpalmgrowers.com

Dawn Till Dusk Landscaping, LLC

Jackson O’Neill

4365 N. Drake Pl. Tucson, AZ 85749 (520) 727-7355 | jacksononeill224@gmail.com dawntilldusklandscaping.com

We are a small family owned company that specializes in tree services, desert landscape and general maintenance.

Contractor Class 2

Elaborate Landscape Management, Inc

Tyler Buck

85 W Combs Rd, Suite 101-394 San Tan Valley, AZ 85140 (480) 370-5263 | marketing@elaboratelm.com www.elaboratelm.com

We are a direct national wholesale supplier of palm trees across the South and Southwest United States specializing in premium Phoenix Dactylifera, and Medjool Date Palms along with Robusta, Hybrid and California Fan Palms out of the Indio and Coachella Valley, California. We supply to the residential and commercial contractors and or nurseries directly.

Associate Class 2

Nickie Velten 2023 ALCA President

For those of you who do not know me, my name is Nickie Velten and I am your new ALCA President. Over the past 7 years I have served as the Director of ALCA’s Member and PR committee and for the last 2 years I have served as Vice President. I was born and raised in Phoenix, Arizona and I am a 3rd generation native in the Valley of the Sun! I graduated from Northern Arizona State University in 2009 with a Bachelors Degree in Business Administration Cum Laude. I am the Vice President of DTR Landscape Development and 2023 will be my 20th year with DTR.

My son Mason, my family and good friends are the most important aspects of my life. I enjoy spending time with them outdoors camping, hiking, shooting, four wheeling and of course football. Mason has shown great interest of his own in landscape construction and I hope to pass the company down to him someday!

As much as I am sad to see Judy go, I’m beyond excited for her on her new endeavor in retirement. I wish Judy nothing but the best and know that she will continue to do great things! With my new chapter as President in 2023, I look forward to working with the new Executive Director, Barb Shehan. Since the first time I met with Barb, I knew that we would make a strong team and we are both ready to conquer new challenges.

As the industry continues to grow, so will ALCA and as an association we will continue to flourish in success.

Cheers to all of you and to 2023!

Nickie Velten

We bring forth a technical approach to the landscape industry and cultivate a culture of knowledge and training that instills a unique passion amongst its employees. ELM serves primarily to the commercial and HOA industry.

Contractor Class 1

Innovative Landscaping Services

Andy Garza 7631 E Starla Dr Scottsdale, AZ 85255 (602) 703-1694

maintenance@innovativelandscapingservices.com https://innovativelandscapingservices.com/ We provide landscape maintenance and installation services all over the valley.

Contractor Class 3

Island Pools and Landscaping

Paul Martin 1325 W Plane Tree Ave Queen Creek AZ 85140 (602) 818-1277 | poolconnect@gmail.com www.IslandPoolsandLandscapingAZ.com

We are a Pool (Inground - Gunite) & Landscape Contractor, for new installs only.

Contractor Class 3

Nutrien Solutions

Kyle Roland 190 S Kyrene Rd #13 Chandler, AZ 85226 (480) 592-9900 | kyle.roland@nutrien.com nutrienagsolutions.com

We are one of the largest suppliers of chemicals, fertilizer, seed, and other turf and ornamental products. Our turf and ornamental location in Chandler works with landscape, golf maintenance, and the nursery/ greenhouse market.

Associate Class 2

OnSite OilChange Plus

Rudy Hernandez 3370 N Hayden Rd #986 Scottsdale, AZ 85251 (480) 470-0352

Contact@Onsiteoilchangeplus.com

OnSiteOilChangePlus.Com

We

Syngenta

Kimberly Gard 824 Porter Way Fallbrook VA 92028 (760) 390-5117 | kimberly.gard@syngenta.com www.greencastonline.com

Good Bones

In my short time with ALCA, I have come to understand and appreciate the depth of history, community and comradery that has made ALCA what it is today. The foundation of this organization is strong and the alliance of individuals that has created that foundation is even stronger.

As with all things, a strong foundation is necessary for longevity. To quote Maren Morris “The house won’t fall if the bones are good” and I mean to tell you, I have inherited some good bones! As we welcome in the new year, we also celebrate ALCA’s diamond anniversary! This momentous occasion is further validation of the commitment to greatness that runs deep in our history.

Special Thank You to

PLATINUM SPONSORS

Cutting

ALCA Sponsors

LeBaron

Northwestern

SiteOne

Shehan Executive Director

60 years of growth and development. 60 years of building a community of professionals anxious to learn and become better at their craft. 60 years of volunteers shaping our organization and industry. 60 years of blood, sweat, tears and endless laughs.

What an exciting time to be a part of the ALCA family! ALCA’s foundational strength and success relies on the leadership of the ALCA Board of Directors, the Board of Trustees and 100+ volunteers. I would like to formally welcome in our 2023 Board of Directors! I’m looking forward to working with you all.

We could not tote a strong foundation without the unwavering commitment of ALCA’s home team. Educational Coordinator, Heather Taylor goes above and beyond developing our curriculum and coordinating our volunteers and instructors. Our Business Manager, Danielle Joyce is a customer service all-star that keeps this organization running like a well-oiled machine.

As we slide in to 60, ALCA remains focused on helping members achieve business success through unparalleled educational and development programs including the following:

• ALCA Trade Show

• Golf tournament benefiting the Sky Blu Underwood Scholarship

• Scholarship opportunities

• Membership mixers

• Monthly landscaping and safety tips

• Excellence In Landscaping awards program

• 50+ EDUCATIONAL WORKSHOPS

WITH 2,000+ STUDENTS

As we wish ALCA a happy anniversary, I say cheers to all that have been a part of the ALCA family, past, present and future.

Wishing everyone a happy & healthy new year!

Barb

Shehan Executive Director

Barb

2023 Board of Directors and Executive Director

Daniel Baiza, Arizona Sunscape Lawn Maintenance (Director of Member & PR)

Nickie Velten, DTR Landscape Development LLC (President)

Kim Kleski, Kleski & Associates (Secretary)

Beth Postma, All Season Wholesale Growers (Treasurer)

Tanner Spross, Santa Rita Landscaping (Member-at-Large)

Bob Franchetto, Horizon Distributors (Director of Community Projects)

Warren Runcorn, ABC Scapes Inc (Vice-President)

Maggie Saulsby, Rain Bird (Director of Programs)

Barb Shehan, ALCA (Executive Director)

James Carr, BrightView Landscape Services (Director of Education)

Jonathan Tellez, CareScape (Member-at-Large)

Dwight Faires, Creative Environments (Past President)

Marty Monroy, Cutting Edge Curbing Sand and Rock (Member-at-Large)

Year-round Color in the Xeriscape™

Article provide by Cindy Odgers

Remember when…Xeriscape™ In 1980, the Denver Water Department coined “Xeriscape” as “a systematic approach to designing landscapes that conserve water.” Xeriscape™, from the Greek word “xeri” for dry, has become synonymous with water conservation throughout the United States. A landscape can be colorful as well as water-conserving, with the many native and non-native plants for use in Arizona.

Color in the landscape is often taken to mean any color other than green, though green is a color too. Color is a physical property of a plant that results from light acting on its leaves, flowers, fruit, bark, and seeds. The color of a plant’s foliage should be considered most in the design process because the foliage is present for an extended period of the year. Plant foliage colors range from black-green (grayish) to blue-green, brightgreens, red-greens, and finally, to yellow-greens. In Arizona, numerous plants bloom through a significant part of the year, so consider a plant’s flower colors as well as foliage colors.

Colors are warm or cool, depending on their hue. Hue is the name of a color such as red, blue, orange, and so forth. The cool hues include blues, greens, and purples, while the warm hues include yellow, orange, scarlet, and crimson. Cool colors are receding, not as conspicuous as warm colors are bright, inviting, and lively.

Another physical property of plants is texture. Stems, leaves, bark, and buds determine the texture of a plant. Textures ranging from fine through medium to coarse are visible because of the size and shape of these features and the way light and shadow play off them. One can feel texture as well as see it. Larger leaves, stems, and buds, the number of branches and leaves, and the spacing between them create an effect of coarseness. Thick, tight foliage results in finer texture, while widely separated foliage gives a coarser texture. Simple leaves will appear coarser than compound leaves, and leaves with deep lobes in the margin show a finer texture than leaves of a similar size. The coarser a texture appears in a plant, the more significant impact its color will make. Texture can significantly influence the perception of color.

Because many of the plants used in the Arizona plant palette have compound leaves with finer textures, the impact of their green color is not as significant as it would be if they were

coarse textured. Therefore, it is essential to vary the texture when possible if using plants with the same shade of green.

Here are some basic guidelines to follow that will ensure year-round color.

Provide interest to an otherwise gray-green area through the use of accent plants. Relieve large masses of one color with smaller groups of plants of a complementary color.

Plants with coppery or purple-toned foliage make great accent plants.

Plant in mass. If a plant is worth using at all, it should be worth using in large enough quantities to be effective. Also, use odd numbers such as three, five, and seven, and avoid planting in a straight line.

Shrubs with bright flowers and foliage can be used at the end of a too-long or narrow vista to make the planting seem close and the view nearer.

A gray or neutral plant will accent the depth of color near it and bring out warm notes.

Plants with variegated leaf colors will lighten and liven up shady, dull corners.

Direct sunlight enhances green colors. Plants on a west wall viewed in the late afternoon will appear more brilliant than at other times of the day.

If a plant is used once in the landscape, use it again for unity.

Enchanted Garden Landscape – Photos by Christopher Rossi

46TH ANNUAL

Exce l lence In Landscaping Awards PROGRAM

Members of the Arizona Landscape Contractors’ Association gathered to celebrate and recognize the fine work and artistry that the landscape industry provides to our beautiful state at the 46th annual Excellence in Landscaping Awards Gala held on November 19, 2022, at the beautiful Sheraton Grand at Wild Horse Pass.

The ALCA awards program reflects the association and industry’s commitment to designing and maintaining our southwest environment as well as applying practices and methods that promote sustainability.

There are many people that contribute their time and talents throughout the year to make this program a success. As the Director of the Awards Program, Beth Postma with All Season Wholesale Growers, spearheaded and coordinated ALCA’s largest event of the year.

Thank you to the judges who contributed their time and expertise by viewing photos in the ALCA office and onsite visits in the heat of the summer. They were Cindy Odgers (COHORT), Beth Postma (All Season Wholesale Growers), Kim Kleski (Kleski and Associates), Matthew Johnson (All Year Round Landscape Management), Brandon Grimes (Rain Bird), Robin Franklin (Sun Country Landscape), Ben Schottke (SiteOne Landscape Supply) and Shawn Cox (Arizona Wholesale Growers).

Much appreciation goes to Arid Solutions for furnishing the beautiful table centerpieces. Thank you to RDO Equipment Co, Sims Business Systems, Whitfill Nursery, Mountain States Wholesale Nursery and Radix Group for sponsoring our delicious dinner.

For dessert, everyone enjoyed some delicious treats sponsored by SunWest Golf & Reclamation Bayer/ENVU, Arizona CLA, and Association Outsources Services whose company collects the advertisements for the ALCA Influence magazine and the ALCA website.

Thank you to all of the generous members who donated items for the silent auction that everyone enjoyed during the cocktail reception. Proceeds in the amount of $13,200 will support ALCA’s Government Affairs initiatives.

A special thank you goes to the 2021 Lifetime Achievement recipient, Dawn Fried with Horticulture Unlimited, for recognizing and announcing the Special Award winners. As the Master of Ceremonies, Jimmy Fox with Evergreen Turf did a phenomenal job introducing the awards.

ALCA is truly fortunate to have members that support the awards program by sponsoring the various categories. Their generosity is amazing. These sponsors will be recognized with the winners throughout each issue of the ALCA Influence magazine.

And of course, there would not be a program without the landscape contractors who submit their beautiful landscape projects. Forty companies took the time and effort to take photos, fill out the application and compete against fellow ALCA members and friends to win an award. By participating in the program, these companies will be able to market to their clients, recognize their employees for their hard work, dedication and outstanding landscape projects and be recognized in the industry by being a leader of the pack and competing with the best!

2022 Presidential Award

The Presidential Award is given to a project that demonstrates the highest level of excellence and creativity. This award is the “Best of Show” chosen from over 90 of the most beautiful landscape projects submitted into the competition.

Level One Landscaping with JM Walsh Design Hummingbird

Residence

During the three-year multiphase construction process, Level One Landscaping worked with the home’s architect/owner to transform a flat 2.5acre property into an inviting modern living space. Later in the project, Jason Walsh, was brought into seamlessly blend shrubs, groundcovers, cacti and accent plants into the already completed revegetated areas.

We contoured the property using the soil and rock cobble on site to utilize the natural washes and give the property additional elevations so that the landscape flows around the residence. Mature trees were protected during construction while other desert dug & nursery grown trees were used to blend the modern landscaping with the natural beauty of the surrounding desert perimeter.

We created custom steel work throughout the property to tie in the exposed steel elements of the home. Architectural steel panels were built to support the elevated side of the circular front driveway along with a large steel planter by the front entry. In the rear yard, Cascalote trees were placed in elevated steel planters to provide shade for a seating area on the pool’s wood deck. The turf area expands the outdoor space between the patio areas and the sport court.

Stabilized granite paths, boulders and boulder steps were incorporated throughout the property to blend seamlessly with the native rock cobble to provide access to multiple areas. Hundreds of agaves, cacti, native & drought tolerant shrubs, grasses & groundcovers were planted to create a lush and unforgettable outdoor living space while maintaining the modern shape of the home.

The unseen infrastructure includes large drainage systems, low voltage lighting utilizing down lights in the trees as well as bollards at the driveway. A 29 valve Hydrowise Wi-Fi controlled Hunter irrigation system includes an onsite weather station, flow meter and mainline self-flushing filter to protect the valves.

Sponsored by

Kimberlee Sheridan (Left Edge) & Trae Sadler (Right Edge) with Hunter ® FX Luminaire ® presented the award to Russ Lowd (L) & Lou Werner (R)

2022 Best Landscape Management Award

The Best Landscape Management Award reflects and recognizes the precise efforts of landscape care. Proper pruning of all plant material follows the sustainable landscape management practices. Proper monitoring of irrigation systems minimizes water use but is sufficient for all species to flourish. Attention to every detail give this project a pristine look that everyone can appreciate and enjoy.

Agave Environmental Contracting

Cotton Center

Agave Environmental Contracting has been maintaining The Cotton Center business park for 1 year. The property is a 280-acre master planned business complex with more than 50 buildings and 3 million square feet of space.

Esai Arvizo (L) with Toro Co. presented the award to Ernie Uranga (R) and Victoria Rosales (Center) with Agave Environmental Contracting

Sponsored by

ALCA 2022 SPECIAL AWARDS

Chosen by their peers, three ALCA members were honored with special recognition at ALCA’s Excellence in Landscaping” awards gala at the beautiful Scottsdale Plaza on November 19, 2022. These individuals have demonstrated a strong dedication and commitment to ALCA and the landscape industry.

Thank you to our Special Award Sponsors

LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD

Judith Ann Gausman, ALCA CEO

Extraordinaire – Twenty-one Years of Success

Sponsored by Arizona Turf Masters / Synthetic Grass Store

It all started September 16, 1958, Judy was born in Batesville, Indiana to Janet and Paul Gausman and grew up with two sisters and three brothers; Pauletta, April, Scott, Andy and Tony.

Little did Judy Gausman know how important working for the local YMCA as the Comptroller and working with a Board of Directors and volunteers would prepare her for the unknown future with ALCA.

Judy has always been very active with a love for anything outdoors. You could say she started her career in landscaping working in her yard, cutting the grass on her John Deere tractor as a single mom and homeowner on 10 acres of the family farm.

In 2001, Judy needed a change and made the brave move to relocate to Phoenix with her daughter Jama who enrolled in ASU and her son Ryan who had already graduated from Franklin College in Indiana. Judy and her family still celebrate their anniversary of moving to Arizona every August.

With no other family, friends or employment, she enlisted a recruiting company to find a job. At the time, there were no jobs available but Bess, the recruiter, was so taken with her that she hired Judy on-site and three months later, the position with ALCA became available. According to the Board Members at the time, upon meeting Judy it was obvious she would be a perfect fit with her bubbly personality and desire to succeed. The early days were not easy and she had numerous challenges but Judy met the challenges head on and flourished in her new position. It can truly be said that Judy took on a “can of worms,” and turned it into a “pot of gold.”

Over the last twenty-one years, ALCA membership has grown from 89 to 425 companies, educational opportunities have been completely overhauled and are now a key feature in membership benefits, budgets have been exceeded with rainy day savings in the bank. One of Judy’s keys to success has been her ability to recruit, retain and support the 100 volunteers who keep the events, classes and programs functioning. Of course, anyone who has ever had a position on the board or as a volunteer could attest, Judy will often accomplish tasks only to give them the credit, rarely taking credit for the successes of ALCA herself.

Why has Judy had such success at the helm of the Arizona Landscape Contractors Association? Her many talents which include but are surely not limited to:

• Intelligent and business savvy with selfless dedication to ALCA and improving the membership experience.

• Strong work ethic – many are unaware the “behind the scenes” tasks Judy undertakes, some unpleasant like cleaning the office or repairing the toilet.

• Networking – strong relationships with other organizations have been instrumental in success.

• Sense of humor and positive attitude – She is so loved by all members and anyone she works with. She is fully capable of laughing at herself.

• Fierce protection and thrifty with ALCA’s money – She is a genius at adhering to budget and managing the assets of the organization.

• Professionalism – She is always positive, inviting and professional even in sticky situations.

• Creative – Years of fun Board retreats, games and of course the Awards Banquet entertainment; skits, dances, videos and overall program direction. She introduced the concept of comedy to the show. Now, look around at this amazing and popular event often referred to as the “ALCA Prom.” This is all Judy!!

• Bringing all of us together – She makes each and every person she deals with feel valued and appreciated. She has literally created a family of ALCA members.

Over the years, ALCA has provided Judy with an amazing career, dear friends and, let’s not forget, a lifelong friend in her husband Tim. Tim Foraker was an active member of ALCA and when he met Judy, began volunteering for many ALCA activities. The rest is history. The two were married December 28, 2013. Tim and Judy hold family as their ultimate priority and have a wonderful relationship with their four children and three grandchildren. In retirement, the two will be remodeling a cabin on Huntington Lake in California and spend their summers boating, fishing, hiking and entertaining family.

As one long-time board member put it, “ALCA would not be here today without Judy.” Judy, you will truly be missed and we all wish you all the best in this new chapter of your life. Thank you for the last twenty-one years of hard work, dedication and success!

Congratulations on a well-deserved Lifetime Achievement Award.

Tim Foraker with AZ Turf Masters presented the award to Judy Gausman

OUTSTANDING LANDSCAPE CONTRACTOR OF THE YEAR

Russ Lowd – Level One Landscaping

Sponsored by Hill & Usher

After gaining experience in the industry, Russ Lowd started his own company, Level One Landscaping, in 2006.

Whether the job is large or small, Russ loves landscape projects that have challenging elements to them.

Whether it is working in solid rock on a hillside property or figuring out how to tuck a 66” Native Mesquite in between two glass walls at the back of a home without breaking anything, it is meeting & exceeding the client’s expectations that are the most gratifying part that Russ enjoys.

Russ has been a strong advocate for ALCA since he joined the association 16 years ago and rarely misses an opportunity to join his fellow members at the monthly mixers.

Russ also enjoys his time away from the job too, whether it is beach time, hunting turkeys, or fishing, it is time spent with friends and family that is important to him.

Congratulations, Russ Lowd, ALCA’s 2022 Landscape Contractor of the Year.

OUTSTANDING CUSTOMER SERVICE OF THE YEAR

Juan Contreras – Desert Tree Farm

Sponsored by Desert Tree Farm

Everyone knows Juan and Juan knows everyone. A memory like a steel trap, he’ll tell you your order before you know your order.

Hailing from a small town in Veracuz, Mexico, Juan Contreras was born for big adventures. At 19, he arrived in the United States and in August of 2008 became a citizen of the United States.

Juan started his career at Desert Tree Farm in 1996 shoveling soil into 5-gallon containers, unable to speak a word of English. Through hard work and a determination unmatched by most, he worked his way up the ranks, learned the English language and became Desert Tree Farm’s sales manager. He’ll be the first to tell you how much he loves his job, therefore his positivity is contagious.

A family man first and foremost, Juan and his lovely wife, Melanie, are blessed with two boys, Johnny and Prestyn.

In his free time, Juan tends to his personal plant collection consisting of adeniums, plumerias, and rare agaves.

Congratulations to Juan Contreras, ALCA’s 2022 Outstanding Customer Service of the Year.

The Outstanding Contractor of the year sponsored by Hill & Usher. Bob Franchetto with Horizon presented the award to Russ Lowd on behalf of Hill & Usher

John Augustine (R) with Desert Tree Farm presented the award to Juan Contreras

ALCA LANDSCAPING AWARD SPONSORS

The Toro Company/ Irritrol/Unique Lighting Systems

We strengthen our position as a leading worldwide provider of innovative solutions for the outdoor environment including turf maintenance, snow and ice management, landscape, rental and specialty construction equipment, and irrigation and outdoor lighting solutions. www.toro.com

Brian Qualls | brian.qualls@uniquelighting.com | (480) 381-6901

Brian Whitcher | Brian.whitcher@toro.com | (602) 509-4501

Paul Tammelleo | paul.tammelleo@toro.com | (602) 315-3637

Arizona Turf Masters / Synthetic Grass Store

Synthetic Grass Store provides contractors, synthetic lawn installers and Do It Yourself (DIY) homeowners with a one stop shop for all the materials and information needed to make their landscaping dreams come true. From design tips, tool rentals and safety specifications to installing your perfect backyard putting green through our partner company Arizona Turf Masters, our professional and knowledgeable team can support your project from start to finish.

(480) 751-4343 | www.azturfmasters.com (602) 996-8873 | www.syntheticgrassstore.com

Desert Tree Farm

Desert Tree Farm has been propagating, cultivating and growing native arid plants since the early 1970’s. Their farm grows over 300 plant varieties with 2 convenient growing and sales locations in both North and South Phoenix totaling on over 90 acres. Of these, many are proprietary plants uniquely developed for southern Arizona and the southwestern United States. (602) 569-6604 | www.deserttreefarm.com

Hillspring Financial, Inc.

With the financial markets unraveling this past year there have been few places to hid from the market pullback within 401k plans. As much as we would like to control the markets and always have positive returns, unfortunately we are unable to do so. Having said that there are a few things that we can control:

• Making sure that you have the most efficient and low cost plan administration

• Making sure that you have high performing and low cost investment options (ETF’s and Mutual funds)

How ALCA helps you control the controllable!

ALCA created a Multiple Employer (MEP) 401k plan that allows ALCA members to have a customized 401k plan, but aggregate together in order to lower plan administration fees and offer access to the top asset managers to enhance returns and lower investment fees. This allows you and your employees to keep more of their hard earned money regardless of the ups and downs of the markets. In addition, ALCA helps you shoulder and reduce your fiduciary liability with your company’s 401k plan.

It is a Win-Win solution!

Alan D. Cox, MBA Hillspring Financial, Inc. 12213 W Bell Road, Suite 209, Surprise, AZ 85378

Phone: 623-583-6141 | Cell: 623-208-3486 | Fax: 623-583-6152 www.hillspringfinancial.com

Plant Pruning Schedule

Hunter Industries/FX Luminaire

Hunter Industries offers thousands of products in over 120 countries, including a complete spectrum of water- and energy-efficient solutions for residential, commercial, and golf course irrigation systems. They also offer industry-leading landscape, architectural, and facade lighting solutions through their FX Luminaire and Lumascape brands.

(480) 305-4289 | www.hunterindustries.com

Hill & Usher

Hill & Usher is the premier insurance program for the Green industry providing exclusive coverage designed for landscape contracting, tree trimming, nurseries, and maintenance firms.

(602) 956-4220 | www.trimrisk.com

ALCA continually updates and makes improvements to their educational programs. Improper tree and shrub pruning is one of the most difficult challenges to educate not only our industry but the public at large.

ALCA has created a publication, “Plant Pruning Schedule – The First 100”, a guide for proper pruning of 100 common plants found in the Desert Southwest.

Pruning is the intentional removal of plant parts. Pruning should only be done when necessary and at the right time of year and use the natural growth form of the plant as the goal. Along with photos, each page in the publication will include the bloom period, pruning time, proper pruning techniques and helpful tips for trees, palms, groundcovers, vines, shrubs, flowering perennials, cacti, non-cacti succulents and grasses.

Copies are available for sales for $24/each plus shipping and handling. Call the office at (602) 626-7091 to order yours today!

West Coast Turf/Western Sod

Quality, Service, and the Newest State-of-the-Art Eco-Friendly Turfgrasses/Groundcover

West Coast Turf/Western Sod (WCT/WS) is undoubtedly the most famous face in Arizona’s turfgrass industry. We offer top professional quality natural turfgrass and installation services to all of our customers, whether they are an ultra-particular golf course superintendent wanting perfection for members or a PGA Tour tournament, a landscape contractor wanting the best product at the best price, an MLB spring training facility needing top quality product, or a homeowner looking for the newest environmentally friendly lawn. We also offer same day pick-ups at our Scottsdale farm.

The Latest State-of-the-Art Grasses, NEW super drought tolerant groundcover, and the “Good Ol’ Standby’s”

Environmentally friendly turfgrasses are vital to the future of the industry, and one of our answers is the Platinum TE Paspalum. “I’ve been in the industry for a long time, and I haven’t seen a grass out there better for our desert,” Danek explained.

WCT/WC has recently introduced Kurapia sod—a drought tolerant natural groundcover. It creates highly unique and versatile landscape design. It requires less water, and maintenance than traditional turfgrasses. It has the look of a lawn—it grows close to the ground and rarely exceeds 1” high. If left un-mowed, it produces small white sterile flowers, or they can be mowed off for a textured simple green look. It is found to be tolerant of saline, acidic, and basic soils, and grows best in full sun or partial shade.

“The market is certainly buzzing over Kurapia sod. It wasn’t available in sod form before but we’ve got it now. It is more costly than traditional turfgrass, but those who have tried it are loving it and using it on more projects after their first time. It is a pretty cool plant, and we’re excited to sell it, “said Danek.

Tahoma 31 bermuda is our newest addition and is quickly becoming an industry favorite. “Tahoma is by far the most drought tolerant bermuda we have ever seen. It also has incredible wear tolerance in addition to the drought tolerance. It is the best grass in the NTEP study under deficit irrigation, fine texture, early spring green up, and ability to thrive from sports fields to home lawns. Keep your eye on this grass—its exceeding all expectations,” Danek explained.

“We’ve also expanded our inventory of St. Augustine, the new TifTuf, and our popular EZ-Turf,” Danek said. “And--BOBSod is still the homeowner ‘go to” grass. But the Tahoma 31, Platinum TE and Kurapia are the ones that everyone wants to know more about.”

And Mr. Wise Grass—Our Sod Blog…….

Danek has been roped into his role as our resident “Mr. Wise Grass.” His blog “Ask Mr. Wise Grass” (found at http://mrwisegrass.com ) offers turf advice, tips, insights, and answers. “I am passionate about grass, and I love helping people get their lawns in top condition,” Danek said. WCT/

WS offers virtual “Lunch and Learn” presentations for those wanting in on the latest detailed industry product information—just ask!

Contact West Coast Turf/Western Sod at 800/832-8873, online at www.wwestcoastturf.com, or find us on Facebook www.facebook.com/ westcoastturf. Life is short. Sod it!

6 Steps to Achieve Your Vision

65% of business owners plan to re re within 10 years, yet less than 1/3 have a plan to do so.

As a business owner, you have invested �me and effort into building a business that supports not only you and your family, but many others including employees, vendors, customers, and your community.

Whether it’s a few years from now or decades away, there will come a �me when you leave your business. To ensure a successful passing to the next owner, it is important to start planning now.

In addi�on, customers and vendors prefer working with businesses that have a strong succession plan in place. Planning now gives those you work with condence in the stability of your business.

As you build your succession plan, take control of the process and leave on your terms by following these six cri �cal steps:

ONE: Start now. Only 30% of businesses make a successful transi �on.

TWO: Clarify your goals. Think through ques �ons such as ‘When will I sell my business and to whom? How much income do I need? What will I do next?’. The answers will help determine the strategies you use.

THREE: Build your plan. Decide whom will be the next owner though evalua�on of pros and cons; then strategize with your business succession team.

FOUR: Manage your risk. A strong succession plan accounts for risks that could derail planning. For example, what if something happens to a key employee?

FIVE: Value your business. Find out what your business is worth.

SIX: Review your plan. The only constant is change so review your plan annually with your team.

Advisor since 1987 Interesting fact: John served in the USAF prior to planning

ALCA Pla num Sponsor: Welborn Financial &Northwestern Mutual

Tax Cuts & Jobs Act Seminar January 2019

Kent, Judy, and John September 2017

ALCA Tucson Holiday Mixer

We were so excited to be ringing in the holiday season with our Tucson members. On the chilly evening on December 8th, members gathered at the Horizon Distributors location to eat drink and be merry.

Thanks goes to the Horizon crew for coordinating the effort and donating some great raffle prizes for the event. We continued to raise funds for our 2022 Adopt a family effort as well. A big thank you to all of our members who have participated in that mission!

We enjoyed some delicious Mexican food catered by El Molinito and we are already looking forward to our next Tucson mixer in June.

Over 100 ALCA members and guests enjoyed the holiday season together at Lou’s Bar & Grill at Papago. It was a fantastic turn out for a great cause!

Thank you to Cutting Edge Curbing Sand & Rock for sponsoring the event and providing an incredible amount of raffle prizes. Congrats to all of our winners.

This year we combined our 50/50 raffle with our Tucson party and online sales. Because of the generosity of all of our members we collected $5,000 for the split pot raffle. The big winner of the night was Karen Draeger with SiteOne Landscape Supply.

Karen selflessly donated her winnings to our Adopted Family, the much deserving family of Eddie Fierro with Back to Nature. As a community, we felt and mourned the loss of Eddie and we hope that this donation will help ease the burden on his family this Holiday Season.

What a wonderful way to celebrate the season of giving!

(Based

annual sales revenue in the landscape Industry)

Contractor Member: person, partnership or corporation actively engaged in the construction or maintenance of landscapes.

Contractor Class 1 (Sales Revenue under $100,000) $275 or 690 Hunter Points

Contractor Class 2 (Sales Revenue $100,001—$500,000) $370 or 925 Hunter Points

Contractor Class 3 (Sales Revenue $500,001—$1.5M) $580 or 1450 Hunter Points

Contractor Class 4 (Sales Revenue Over $1.5M) $880 or 2200 Hunter Points

Architects & Designers $275

Associate M Member: person, firm, partnership or corporation engaged in a business or industry allied with the landscape industry.

Associate Class 1(Under $1M) $550

Associate Class 2($1—$5M) $715

Associate Class 3($5—$10M) $880

Associate Class 4 (Over $10M) $1100

Municipalities, golf courses, $150 ACLP students & Educators

High School/College Student Free

Rock/Gravel-Wholesale

RESOURCE GUIDE/AD INDEX

BUSINESS BROKER

Macor Associates, Inc. (602) 989-9960 macorassociates.com

Please see our ad on page 6

FLEET & VEHICLE MANAGEMENT

OnSite OilChange Plus (480) 470-0352 onsiteoilchangeplus.com

Please see our ad on page 18

INSURANCE

Hill & Usher (602) 667-1848 trimrisk.com

Please see our ad on page 6

IRRIGATION

PRODUCTS & SYSTEMS

Horizon (800) PVCTURF (782-8873) horizononline.com

Please see our ad on page 23

Hunter Industries (760) 744-5240 hunterindustries.com

Please see our ad on page 2

LANDSCAPE CERTIFICATION

TRAINING/TESTING

Metro Institute (602) 452-2900 metroinstitute.com

Please see our ad on page 3

LANDSCAPE EQUIPMENT

A to Z Equipment Rentals & Sales (480) 539-8700 a-zequipment.com

Please see our ad on page 20 Stotz Equipment 623-936-7131 stotzequipment.com

Please see our ad on page 5 Vermeer Mountain West (480) 249-5111 vermeersouthwest.com

Please see our ad on page 23

LANDSCAPE MATERIALS

Cutting Edge Curbing Sand & Rock Landscape Materials (602) 353-1020 cuttingedgecurbing.com

Please see our ad on page 14

LANDSCAPE SUPPLIES

Material Delivery, Inc. dba MDI Rock (602) 569-8722 mdirock.com

Please see our ad on page 17

LIGHTING

Brilliance LED, LLC (800) 867-2108 brillianceled.com

Please see our ad on page 7

NURSERIES

All Season Wholesale Growers (602) 276-0230 allseasongrowers.com

Please see our ad on page 22 Arid Solutions Nursery (602) 437-5194 aridsolutionsnursery.com Please see our ad on page 12

Arizona Wholesale Growers (623) 581-3100

azwholesalegrowers.com

Please see our ad on page 3

Australian Outback Plantation (623) 780-8500 australianoutbackplants.com

Please see our ad on page 17

OLIVES & ORNAMENTALS

Arizona Olives & Ornamentals LLC (602) 833-8252 olivesaz.com

Please see our ad on page 5

SOD/TURF

Evergreen Turf, Inc. (480) 456-1199 evergreenturf.com

Please see our ad on page Back Cover Southwest Sod (602) 271-4266 southwestsod.com

Please see our ad on page 6 West Coast Turf (888) 893-8873 westcoastturf.com

Please see our ad on page 2

SUPPLYING LANDSCAPE PROFESSIONALS

Wilbur Ellis (480) 921-8500 wilburellis.com

Please see our ad on page 22

TREES

Western Tree Company (602) 243-6125 westerntree.com

Please see our ad on page.................. 17

AD INDEX

A to Z Equipment Rentals & Sales 20

All Season Wholesale Growers 22

Arid Solutions Nursery 12

Arizona Olives & Ornamentals LLC 5

Arizona Wholesale Growers 3

Australian Outback Plantation 17

Brilliance LED, LLC ............................... 7

Cutting Edge Curbing Sand & Rock Landscape Materials 14

Evergreen Turf, Inc. Back Cover Hill & Usher 6

Horizon 23

Hunter Industries 2

Macor Associates, Inc. 6

Material Delivery, Inc. dba MDI Rock 17

Metro Institute 3

OnSite OilChange Plus 18 Southwest Sod 6 Stotz Equipment 5

Vermeer Mountain West 23 West Coast Turf 2

Western Tree Company 17 Wilbur Ellis 22