TGC0826

Growing Concern

The

AUGU S T 2 0 2 6

A P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E O H I O L A N D S C A P E A S S O C I AT I O N

Plant Healthcare Clinic

September 25, 2026 | Secrest Arboretum

Landscape Ohio! Awards October 8, 2026 | Tenk West Bank

2 | Official Publication of The Ohio Landscape Association

PR ES I DEN T’S COLUM N

CELEBRATING

BRANDON BARKER

J. Barker Landscaping Company

THE BEST OF OUR INDUSTRY One of the most rewarding parts of working in the landscape industry is being able to look back at a completed project and see the difference our work has made. Whether it is a residential landscape that completely transforms a home, a commercial property that welcomes thousands of visitors or a carefully maintained landscape that looks exceptional throughout the season. A tremendous amount of skill and effort goes into the finished product. Unfortunately, we don’t always take enough time to recognize it.

Our industry moves quickly. As soon as one project is completed, another is waiting. There is always another property to visit, another proposal to prepare or another problem that needs to be solved. It can be easy to finish a great project, take a few photos and immediately move on to the next one. That is one of the reasons I believe the Landscape Ohio Awards Program is so important.

On Thursday, October 8, 2026, the Ohio Landscape Association will come together at Tenk West Bank for an evening dedicated to recognizing the outstanding work being performed by our members throughout Ohio. The Landscape Ohio Awards Program gives our members an opportunity to

showcase some of the projects they are most proud of and receive well-deserved recognition for their work. I’m looking forward to seeing this year’s entries and celebrating the companies and individuals behind them.

Every award submission represents much more than the photographs we see on the screen. Behind each project are designers, account managers, crew leaders, technicians, installers, and many others who contributed their time and talents. There were challenges to overcome, decisions that had to be made in the field, and countless details that came together to produce the final result. The Awards Program gives us an opportunity to stop and appreciate all of that.

Continued on page 6 The Growing Concern | August 2026 | 3

TAB LE OF CON TEN TS AU G U S T 2 0 2 6 WWW. OH I OLA N D SCA P E R S. OR G OH I O’ S P R OF E SSI ON A L G REEN I N D U ST R Y A SSOCI AT I O N OHIO LANDSCAPE ASSOCIATION 9240 Broadview Road Broadview Heights, Ohio 44147 Phone: 440-717-0002 Toll Free: 1-800-335-6521 Web: www.ohiolandscapers.org REGULAR WRITERS Michael J. Donnellan, M3 Wealth Management Jim Funai, PhD, Cuyahoga Community College Shelley Funai, Stan Hywet Hall and Gardens Brandon Barker, J. Barker Landscaping Company Patty Lampert, Ohio Landscape Association Bobbie Schwartz, FAPLD, Bobbie’s Green Thumb

COVER: Landscape Ohio! Awards submission by Vizmeg Landscapes, Residential Install, Honor Award.

FEATURES PRESIDENT’S COLUMN 3 Celebrating the Best of Our Industry PERENNIAL FOCUS 8 Smilacina racemosa FISCAL FITNESS 12 Why Interest Rates Matter to Every Investor OLA GOLF CLASSIC 14 Recap & photos FOR SAFETY SAKE 18 BWC Group Rating Discounts for Private Employers PLANT OF THE MONTH 22 Parthenocissus quinquefolia & P. tricuspidata FEATURE ARTICLE 24 Turning a Teenage Side Hustle Into a $2 Million Business FEATURE ARTICLE 28 Sunshine Protection Act Moves Forward

34 EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR’S COLUMN 35 INDEX 4 | Official Publication of The Ohio Landscape Association

ADVERTISING INFORMATION Submission deadline: 10th of the month, prior to the month of magazine publication. For advertising and ad specs, please call 440-717-0002, and ask for Patty Lampert.

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

OFFICERS President Brandon Barker President – Elect Matt Malone Treasurer Tom Rieder, LIC Immediate Past President Ryan Drake DIRECTORS Jeffrey Ardo Jason Deuble, LIC, OCNT Amy Gatoo Gil Kupetz Jess Kronenberger Garrett McNeill

OLA STAFF Executive Director Patty Lampert

C AL ENDAR OF EVEN TS 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 & E V E N T S

SEPTEMBER 2026 SEPTEMBER 25, 2026 PLANT HEALTHCARE CLINIC Secrest Arboretum This Clinic is approved for Pesticide Recertification and the ISA Certification Program Credits. The clinic will focus on Phenology Part 1, Proper Tree Planting, and Right Plant, Right Place. There will also be outdoor demonstrations of staking, guying, mulching, and how to identify common problems due to improper planting and maintenance.

OCTOBER 2026 OCTOBER 8, 2026 THE 29TH ANNUAL LANDSCAPE OHIO! AWARDS Tenk West Bank Find more information and register on the OLA website calendar.

SAVE THE DATE OCTOBER 15, 2026 SANDLER LEADERSHIP CLINIC Sandler

NOVEMBER 4, 2026 SANDLER SALES TRAINING Sandler

NOVEMBER 18, 2026 ANNUAL MEETING DECEMBER 4, 2026 DORMANT PRUNING Secrest Arboretum

SCAN THE QR CODE TO SEE A FULL LIST OF EVENTS AND REGISTRATION.

WELCOME NEW MEMBERS The OLA is delighted to welcome the following new members to the association: REGULAR MEMBERS Jon’s Lawns LLC 28914 Lakeland Wickliffe, OH 44092 216-322-0947 Jon Barris Landmark Distributions Group 34420 Mills Rd. Avon, OH 44011 440-735-3500 Keith Duffy

ASSOCIATE MEMBERS másLabor 915 East Hight Street, Suite 301 Charlottesville, VA 22902 434-263-4300 Jessica Flevarakis Nordonia Landscape Supplies 1325 E. Highland Road Macedonia, OH 44056 330-467-7258 Christopher Posey

STUDENT MEMBER Olivia Mitnick 2027 Tri-C graduatte 216-978-9142

IMPORTANT INFORMATION:

OHIO PESTICIDE CERTIFICATION & TRAINING UPDATES Click to fnd FAQs and more details.

The Growing Concern | August 2026 | 5

PR ES IDEN T’S COLUM N Continued from page 3

Receiving recognition from your peers is also something special. We work in an industry filled with talented people who understand exactly what goes into producing exceptional landscape work. Being recognized by fellow landscape professionals is something companies and their employees should be proud of. But you don’t have to be receiving an award to enjoy the evening.

The Landscape Ohio Awards Program is one of the Association’s great opportunities to bring our membership together. Guests will enjoy dinner, the awards ceremony and plenty of time to network and catch up with friends and colleagues from throughout the industry. I always enjoy events where we can get away from the daily demands of our businesses and simply spend time together as an Association.

I also encourage company owners and managers to consider bringing members of their teams to the event. When an employee has played a role in an award-winning project, having the opportunity to attend and see that work recognized

can mean a great deal. Our employees are the ones bringing designs to life, maintaining properties, solving problems, and representing our companies every day. Sharing the recognition with them makes the accomplishment even more meaningful.

Even beyond the awards themselves, I think the evening provides some inspiration. Seeing the creativity and craftsmanship of other OLA members can give us new ideas and remind us of just how much talent exists within Ohio’s landscape profession. As President, I am proud that our Association has an opportunity to recognize that talent.

I hope you will join us on Thursday, October 8 at Tenk West Bank for a great evening of dinner, networking, and celebration. Most importantly, I hope we take the opportunity to recognize the companies and individuals who continue to raise the bar for our profession. We spend most of the year focused on the work ahead of us. In October, we’ll have a night to celebrate some of the great work already accomplished. I look forward to seeing you there.

Wholesale Grower of Quality Nursery Stock Container & B&B Trees, Shrubs, Perennials, and Ornamental Grasses Bulk Materials Blended Topsoil, Mulch, and Gravel 6126 Neff Road Valley City, OH 44280

Download the “Davis Tree Farm” app in the App Store or Google Play Access our catalog, pricing, current availability, and more!

6 | Official Publication of The Ohio Landscape Association

Ph: 330-483-3324 Fax: 330-483-4483 Sales@davistreefarm.com www.davistreefarm.com

Exclusive Benefit: O.L.A. Members ONLY Earn up to a 20% Discount on Insurance

*AUTO & TRAILER FLEET *CONTRACTORS EQUIPMENT * LIABILITIES IN THE FIELD

You and Your Team WIN When You Choose Botson!

Friendly, Experienced Team who works hard to protect what You’ve worked hard to build

More Peace of Mind from our 30+ years of expertise with fewer surprises

We know your name, explains things clearly to help protect what you worked hard to build

We know Your Industry and will know Your business and will take care of you when you call and need us

More Confidence and Less Stress from Better decision making

Stronger Cashflow for your whole team when you Drive down total cost of Risk

Heavy Trucks & Equipment could turn into a big problem if your policy is not structured correctly

Less Downtime, Fewer claims, Lower renewal pricing, results in More Money for your whole Team

Ask me Today about how new clients may earn up to a 20% discount as an active O.L.A. Member.

Greg Botson

STEP 1: Book a Call Book a 10-15 minute call to learn more about you and your business

B

Botson

STEP 2: Gather Your Insurance Documents We work together to gather your important insurance docs & underwriting information in a timely manner

INSURANCE

A Higginbotham Partner

(440) 537-2292 (Greg’s cell)

STEP 3: Build Your Protection Program and Build your Risk Scorecard and Plan Review our Proposal & Activate Your Protection and start to build Your Safety & Risk Scorecard, Plan and execute on Your Timeline

gbotson@higginbotham.net

The Growing Concern | August 2026 | 7

PEREN N I AL FOCUS

BOBBIE SCHWARTZ, FAPLD Bobbie’s Green Thumb

Smilacina racemosa in my shady bed with Aquilegia double purple, Heuchera ‘Color Beauty’, Pieris japonica and Geranium macrorrhizum ‘Variegatum’ in May.

SMILACINA RACEMOSA

False Solomon’s Seal

Why, you might ask, is she writing now about a spring-blooming perennial? Read on.

We all eagerly await the advent of Spring, praying for blue skies, looking at the ground to see what is emerging, and listening for bird song. One of my favorite sites in Spring is the woodland garden, which is sunny until the tree canopies fill out, but shady thereafter. My Smilacina is planted at the eastern edge of a very shady bed where it receives excellent morning sun. Many of its denizens are ephemerals (those perennials that foliate, bloom for a short spectacular period, and then go dormant soon after the trees leaf out and the temperatures reach the seventies and eighties).

However, there are some woodland perennials that do not go dormant after they bloom and one of the most under used is Smilacina racemosa, False Solomon’s Seal. This wildflower is native to a large part of the United States and is hardy in zones 3-7 but seems to be little known and greatly under used.

The two to three-foot arching stems are clad in alternating ovate leaves and appear with tulips in late April. In May, creamy white panicles appear at the tip of the stem. After flowering, numerous berries develop. By late July and early August, they are pale greenishContinued on page 10

8 | Official Publication of The Ohio Landscape Association

The Growing Concern | August 2026 | 9

PEREN N I AL FOCUS Continued from page 8

bronze; a few weeks later, they are pale pink. By September, they are bright red. Then, in October, when temperatures have dropped, the foliage turns a lovely golden yellow.

Smilacina racemosa has a long, thick rootstock which eventually turns one plant into a sizable clump. Since this is a slow process, however, I recommend planting a minimum of three, but five or seven if you have the space, so a mass will be created more quickly.

Plants thrive in moist, shady sites that are rich in organic matter.

Remember that in their native habitat, tree leaves fall and decompose (they are not raked out of the beds during fall cleanup by overzealous landscapers) to enrich the soil.

Smilacina is an excellent companion for ferns, hellebores, primrose, variegated sedges such as Carex ‘Ice Dance’, and

Anthriscus sylvestris ‘Ravenswing ’, which looks like a black-leaved fern but has white umbels in June after the Smilacina has finished blooming. Another good addition to this shady palette would be Corydalis ochroleuca, which would supply white flowers all summer and into the fall, as well as Tricyrtis for some fall bloom.

Plant this wonderful perennial now, if it is still available, or make a note to incorporate it as soon as possible in Spring so that you or your clients can start to enjoy this woodland edge delight.

Bobbie Schwartz, FAPLD, owner of Bobbie’s Green Thumb in Shaker Hts., Ohio, is a landscape designer, consultant, freelance writer, and lecturer whose specialties are perennial gardens and four season landscapes. In addition to being an Ohio Landscape Association (OLA) member, she is an active member of the Ohio Nursery and Landscape Association (ONLA) and Perennial Plant Association (PPA). Bobbie is a Past President of the Association of Professional Landscape Designers (APLD).

Top Left: Smilacina foliage in late April with dark red tulips at the foot of an ancient Magnolia. Top Center: Smilacina in bloom in early May. Top Right: In mid to late August, Smilacina racemosa berries are pale pink. Bottom Left: By mid-September, the berries are red. Bottom Center: Smilacina racemosa and its red berries share space with Tricyrtis ‘Blue Wonder’. Bottom Right: Corydalis ochroleuca provides some color echo with the blooms of Smilacina.

10 | Official Publication of The Ohio Landscape Association

EVENT INFORMATION SEPTEMBER 25, 2026 SECREST ARBORETUM WELCOME CENTER

2122 Williams Road Wooster, OH 44691 SCHEDULE REGISTRATION & BREAKFAST

8:30 - 9:00 am CLINIC

9:00 - 11:45 am LUNCH

11:45 - 12:30 pm CLINIC

12:30 - 3:00 pm COST MEMBERS: $109 NON-MEMBERS: $149

QUESTIONS Please call Patty at 440-717-0002

PLANT HEALTHCARE CLINIC This Clinic is approved for Pesticide Recertification and the ISA Certification Program Credits.

• ODA: Category Type: Commercial 6A 0.5, Commercial 6A 1.0, Commercial 4A 0.5 • ISA: Category Type: A, T, UB 2.50, BP 2.0, BS .50

WE WILL FOCUS ON

• Seasonal life cycle events of plants and animals • How the environment affects these events • Biotic and abiotic features of ecosystems (Phenology Part 1) • Identifing common diseases and the insects of woody plant • Control and management of these systems There will also be demonstrations outside of staking, guying, mulching, and how to identify common problems due to improper planting and maintenance (Proper Tree Planting).

INSTRUCTORS

LAURA DEETER, PH.D.

You will identify plants in ideal spaces and learn how space impacts overall health, group planting vs. monoculture, density, light, air penetrations, and planning for mature plants (Right Plant, Right Place).

Professor of Horticulture at OSU

Sponsored by Secrest Arboretum.

REGISTER

JASON VEIL, M.S.

Register by September 23, 2026. Visit the OLA Calendar on our website, OhioLandscapers.org

Curator of Secrest Arboretum

*Cancellations made 14 days prior to the course start date will be subject to a 30% cancellation fee. NO refunds, or credits will be issued for cancellations after August 31, no shows, or cancellations on the day of the course. If, for any reason, the course is canceled, enrollees will be notified, and fees refunded in full. Register early as class size is limited and will sell out quickly.

3

CEU’S

The Growing Concern | August 2026 | 11

F ISCAL FI TN ESS

MICHAEL J. DONNELLAN M3 Wealth Management

WHY INTEREST RATES MATTER

TO EVERY INVESTOR

If you’re new to investing, you’ve probably heard news anchors talk about “the Fed raising rates” or “rate cuts” and wondered why anyone should care. Interest rates might seem like a topic for economists and bankers, but they quietly shape nearly every investment decision you’ll ever make. Understanding them is one of the fastest ways to level up as an investor.

WHAT AN INTEREST RATE ACTUALLY IS At its simplest, an interest rate is the cost of borrowing money — or the reward for lending it. When you put money in a savings account, the bank pays you interest for the privilege of using your cash. When you take out a mortgage or a credit card balance, you pay interest for the privilege of using someone else’s cash. In the United States, the Federal Reserve sets a benchmark rate that influences nearly every other rate in the economy, from mortgages to auto loans to the yields on savings accounts.

12 | Official Publication of The Ohio Landscape Association

WHY RATES RIPPLE THROUGH THE WHOLE MARKET Interest rates act like gravity for asset prices. When rates rise, borrowing becomes more expensive for companies and consumers alike. Businesses may slow expansion plans, consumers may cut back on big purchases, and the future profits companies are expected to earn become less valuable in today’s dollars. That’s a key reason stock prices often wobble when the Fed signals it plans to raise rates.

The opposite happens when rates fall. Borrowing gets cheaper, businesses can expand more easily, consumers spend more freely, and investors are often willing to pay more for stocks because the alternative — parking money in a savings account or bonds — pays less.

BONDS FEEL IT MOST DIRECTLY Nowhere is the connection clearer than in the bond market.

Bonds pay a fixed interest rate, so when new bonds come out offering higher rates, existing bonds with lower rates become less attractive and their prices fall. When rates drop, older bonds with higher fixed payments become more valuable.

This inverse relationship between bond prices and interest rates is one of the first concepts every new investor should internalize.

RATES SET THE BAR FOR “GOOD” RETURNS Interest rates also serve as a baseline for judging whether an investment is worth the risk. If a safe savings account or government bond pays a meaningful return with virtually no risk, investors will demand a higher potential return from riskier assets like stocks to make the extra risk worthwhile.

When rates are low, that safe baseline shrinks, and stocks, real estate, and other riskier assets often look more appealing by comparison. This is part of why low-rate periods tend to coincide with rising stock markets, and why rising-rate periods can put pressure on valuations.

WHAT THIS MEANS FOR INVESTORS

THE BOTTOM LINE Interest rates are the backdrop against which every investment decision plays out. They influence what companies can afford to do, what investors are willing to pay for future profits, and how appealing “safe” versus “risky” investments look at any given moment. You don’t have to become a rate forecaster, but recognizing the direction rates are moving — and why it matters — will make you a more informed, confident investor.

This article is for educational purposes only and is not personalized financial advice. Consider consulting a licensed financial professional before making investment decisions. Scenarios illustrated are hypothetical in nature, results may vary. Investing is subject to risk which may involve loss of principal. Past performance is not indicative of future results.

The M3 Wealth Management Office does not provide legal or tax advice. Consult an attorney or tax professional regarding your specific situation. The information herein is general and educational in nature and should not be considered legal or tax advice.

Michael J. Donnellan specializes in stock selection and retirement planning.

Feel free to contact him with any questions or comments at the M3 Wealth Management Office at 17601 W. 130th Street – Suite 1 in North Royalton, Ohio. (440) 652-6370 | donnellan@m3wealthmanagement.com

Congratulations

You don’t need to predict the Fed’s next move to invest successfully — in fact, few professionals can do that reliably.

But a few practical takeaways can help: Diversification matters more when rates are shifting, since stocks, bonds, and cash often respond differently to the same rate change. Cash and cash equivalents such as money market funds become more attractive as savings vehicles when rates are high, offering a genuine return while you decide on longer-term moves. Bond holdings, especially longer-term bonds, will swing in value more with rate changes than short-term ones, so understanding your time horizon helps you choose the right mix. And a long-term perspective still wins: rates move in cycles, and investors who stay invested through those cycles have historically fared better than those who try to time each shift.

NORTHEAST

TOP WORKPLACE REGIONAL AWARDS from the Plain Dealer 35-149 employees

The Growing Concern | August 2026 | 13

26TH ANNUAL OLA GOLF CLASSIC AUGUST 6, 2026 | MALLARD CREEK GOLF CLUB

THANK YOU TO ALL OF OUR GOLFERS! FIRST PLACE Ohio CAT with low score of 55 (Chris Eyerman, Mike Kresowaty, Josh Lawrence, Tyler Smith)

SECOND PLACE Rabbit Landscaping & Installation (Bryan Beall, Brayden Hoffner, Matt Rabbit, Zak Sanders)

THIRD PLACE Three-Z-Supply Group 1 (Joe Haney, Dan Noll, Nicholas Tanczos, Zach Zuercher)

WOMEN’S LONG DRIVE CONTEST Anna Fletcher, Wendy Moore

MEN’S LONG DRIVE CONTEST Shawn Adam, Jake Zbin

LONG PUTT CONTEST Evan Allen, Mike Ahern

CLOSEST TO THE PIN Vitali Kovtunov The Ohio CAT Team of Chris Eyerman, Mike Kresowaty, Josh Lawrence, Tyler Smith won first place at the 2026 OLA Golf Classic with low score of 55.

14 | Official Publication of The Ohio Landscape Association

THANK YOU TO ALL OF OUR MAJOR SPONSORS! BEVERAGE CART SPONSORS

DINNER SPONSOR

PHOTO SPONSORS

HOLE SPONSORS

DRIVING RANGE CONTEST SPONSOR

WOMEN’S LONG DRIVE SPONSOR

TROPHIES SPONSORS

LONG DRIVE CONTEST SPONSOR

CLOSEST TO THE PIN SPONSOR GIVE AWAY SPONSORS HOLE IN ONE SPONSOR

LUNCH SPONSORS CONTINENTAL BREAKFAST SPONSOR

PUTTING CONTEST SPONSOR

LONG PUTT CONTEST SPONSOR

2026 TEE SPONSORS A & A Hydraulic & Equipment Boulders Direct Cenweld Crown Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram Huebler Family Leppo Rents J. Barker Landscaping Co.

J.F.D. Landscapes, Inc. Monte Man Landscaping Oliger Seed Co. O’Neill Insurance Agency Prackos Landscaping Royal Truck and Trailer Rusty Oak Nursery

Sandler Schill Grounds Management Split Rail Nursery Supply Three-Z-Supply Turfscape Urban Organics/Sweet Peet Valley Truck Centers

The Growing Concern | August 2026 | 15

DOOR PRIZE & SILENT AUCTION ITEMS Brandon Barker Elizabeth Zimmerman Emmett Equipment Lago Restaurant McCaskey Landscape & Design

Morton’s Landscape Development Sandler Sajovie Brothers Landscaping Schill Landscaping Tyler Peterson

| Official Publication The Ohio Landscape Association 1616 | Official Publication of of The Ohio Landscape Association

The The Growing Growing Concern Concern | August | August 2025 2026 | 17 | 17

F OR SAFETY SAK E

BWC ADJUSTS GROUP

RATING DISCOUNTS

FOR PRIVATE EMPLOYERS The Ohio Bureau of Workers’ Compensation (BWC) has announced a small change to Group Rating discounts for private employers beginning with the July 1, 2027 policy year.

Under BWC’s updated methodology, the maximum Group Rating discount will decrease from 53% to 50%, with other discount levels adjusted as well.

•

While the discount percentages are changing slightly, Group Rating and Group Retrospective Rating programs continue to be valuable tools for helping employers reduce their workers’ compensation costs.

With the right support and a proactive approach to claims management, employers can reduce costs, improve claim outcomes, and protect their workers’ compensation experience while having “peace of mind”.

These programs remain some of the most effective ways to manage premiums and control long-term workers’ compensation expenses. Our partner, Sedgwick is proud to collaborate with our participating members to help get the most from their workers’ compensation programs by providing: • Guidance and advocacy through Ohio’s workers’ compensation system • Early claim reviews and consultation before certification

Even with this change, employers that focus on workplace safety and effective claims management can still realize meaningful savings through these programs.

18 | Official Publication of The Ohio Landscape Association

• •

Return-to-work strategies and vocational support for complex claims Representation at WC hearings at the various Industrial Commission locations throughout Ohio Ongoing program consultation in support of ongoing account compliance and timely premium payments

If you have any questions or would like Sedgwick to review your policy for our Group discount programs, please our Sedgwick program manager, Dominic Potina at dominic.potina@sedgwick.com

SAFETY GRANTS PROGRAM On August 17, 2026, the Ohio BWC announced it is reopening its Safety Grants program, making more than $41 million available in fiscal year 2027 to help Ohio employers invest in equipment that keeps workers safe and reduces injuries. Three different grant programs are available for eligible employers Employers may now begin submitting new applications online.

SAFETY INTERVENTION GRANT (SIG) This program is available to any Ohio private or public employer covered by the State Insurance Fund. It allows employers to purchase equipment to significantly reduce or eliminate injuries and illnesses associated with a particular task or operation. Recipients are eligible for a 3-to-1 matching grant, up to a maximum grant award of $40,000 for each three-year eligibility cycle. This means you receive $3 for every $1 you contribute as the employer. In return, employers must submit a one-year case study one year after the implementation date of the intervention.

FIREFIGHTER EXPOSURE TO ENVIRONMENTAL ELEMENTS GRANT (FEEEG) This grant aids firefighters’ protection from exposure and dangerous environmental elements. Eligible safety equipment includes turnout gear, lifting tables, diesel exhaust systems, extractors/washing machines for turnout gear or personal protective equipment, hoods with barrier protection, turnout gear drying machines and washable gloves.

SCHOOL SAFETY AND SECURITY GRANT (SSSG) This grant helps employers ensure the safety of staff who instruct children throughout the state. Eligible equipment includes safety items such as slip-resistant flooring, safe food fryers, floor cleaning machines, secured keycard systems, security doors, trauma kits and many other items.

Refer to the BWC safety grants webpage additional details and to apply, or email Sedgwick for additional information at sedgwickohriskservices@sedgwick.com.

TRUE-UP PROCESS The Ohio BWC provides workers’ compensation coverage based on estimated payroll. Therefore, at the end of the policy year, BWC asks employers to report their actual payroll for the prior policy year and pay any shortage (or receive a refund for any overage) in premium. This process is called a true-up. If the true-up is not completed timely, the following may occur: • Employer will not be eligible for prior year rebates and incentives • Employer will be removed from current year programs • Employer will become ineligible for programs the following year and will continue to remain ineligible for all future years until all past true-ups are completed.

How to report payroll and complete the true-up Although employers may contact BWC at (800) OHIO-BWC (800.644.6292) and complete their true-up report over the phone, BWC anticipates high call volumes and long wait times.

They strongly encourage employers to complete their true-up report online through their BWC e-account at www.bwc.ohio. gov. If you do not have an e-account, simply select the Create E-Account Link to begin. You will need your BWC policy number and/or Federal Tax Identification Number.

DEADLINE PRIVATE EMPLOYERS True-up report must be completed and payment received no later than August 31, 2026. Please note, there is no longer a grace period. True-up and payment (if owed) must be POSTED by the deadline date.

If you have any questions, contact our Sedgwick program manager, Dominic Potina at dominic.potina@sedgwick.com

The The Growing Growing Concern Concern || August March 2026 | 19

PL ANT OF TH E M ON TH

JIM FUNAI, PhD

Cuyahoga Community College

SHELLEY FUNAI, LIC

Stan Hywet Hall and Gardens

PARTHENOCISSUS QUINQUEFOLIA

& P. TRICUSPIDATA

Surely you’ve heard the saying, “Leaves of three, let it be; leaves of five, let it thrive”? This saying is an attempt to help the novice avoid touching poison ivy in the woods and perhaps the home gardener know if the vine on their tree is “dangerous”. Kind of a funny saying, though, as the result is to leave both plants alone!

In our landscape at home, especially in the gardens that border the woods, the saying may be a bit closer to, “leaves of three, nuke it with Roundup. Leaves of five, well… I don’t want that on this tree, so nuke it too!” Maybe we shouldn’t publish that, it makes us sound like we run around with a missile launcher filled with Roundup to kill all weeds. Come to think of it, that would be convenient!

Our sentiment, though, is the same as usual: even great plants can be a “weed” when growing in a location in the garden you don’t want. Vines can quickly move from garden superstar to garden weed without proper planning, and this month we will review two similar vines that should be planted with proper foresight to avoid such a fate.

20 | Official Publication of The Ohio Landscape Association

Parthenocissus quinquefolia (Virginia creeper) and Parthenocissus tricuspidata (Boston ivy) are old garden favorites who seem to have taken a backseat in many garden centers to honeysuckle vines (Lonicera), trumpetcreeper (Campsis) and Clematis. Virginia creeper is native to the entire eastern seaboard and Midwest and has been used in American garden design since the early 1600’s and was one of the first plants from the New World to be introduced to trade. As for Boston ivy, despite the name, this plant is native to Japan and Central China (in some circles called Japanese creeper) and is comparatively new to trade, showing up in catalogs in the late 1800’s.

These two vines clearly have a similar ancestor and for however many thousands of years they spent time evolving on separate

With Dramatic Results!

Sell More Landscaping . . . . . . Leave the Deer To Us! Repellent Spray Service

A Trusted Specialist, Landscapers Can Lean On

• Local deer behavior expertise • Deer-aware plant selection strategy • Customer confidence • More closed landscaping sales • Local deer pressure patterns • Referral Incentives given

You Plant It - We Protect It!

Deer Damage

Protected Tulips

Mike Mayer - Your Ohio Deer Defense Advisor

Speak With Your Local Deer Defense Advisor Before Spring

www.EGDeerDefense.com

Call: 440-478-8971

Email: MyDeerGuy@EGDeerDefense.com OLASP26

continents, they certainly stuck to the family trait of being incredibly tough plants. Typically, we suggest looking at where a plant is found in nature to give hints at what landscape conditions the plant will prefer, but in the case of Parthenocissus it does not matter. Usually found in a wooded landscape (with certain exceptions), when you inspect the urban setting, you can find both of these vines paying little attention to the stress of the built environment. Jim had an apartment in Ohio City a number of years back where in an ally, where cars drove right by with salt all over and about a 12 inch strip of gravely garbage dirt to live in there was a 4 story high 50 plus foot wide beautiful Boston ivy vine covering an otherwise ugly cinderblock wall.

Think about those conditions: nothing should live there, yet this vine held on and provided absolute beauty in the absolute harshest conditions.

We took that lesson and planted a Boston ivy at home in a dark corner of our house that eventually reaches into blasting sun on the south exposure. After two years, our brick wall went from being a summer heat sink that baked the rooms on the south side of the house to a shaded retreat offering a welcome cooling effect notable on the interior of the home. What’s even better is

the deciduous nature of the vine, which allows the brick to go back to collecting solar heat in the winter when we want that extra heat. The same results could be expected from choosing Virginia creeper.

Maintenance on these plants can be accomplished in a number of ways, but make no mistake, there will be pruning needed.

When asked how big these vines will grow, the easy answer is, “however big whatever they’re climbing on is. When ours reaches the soffit each year about this time, we get out the ladder and cut it back about 3 feet or so. By autumn it will have filled that back in. We do this to keep the vine from growing up onto the roof which it would do without hesitation. We also spend time about 2 or 3 times each year trimming it back from our windows as it could cover them without issue. However, at Stan Hywet, you will find Boston ivy growing along the brick wall leading into the well and along the East side of the Manor House, treated a bit differently. Shelley has the crew cut this down to about 3 feet tall each year to keep it from growing too high (don’t want to hide that great architecture) yet still provide some of the softening effect of plants. Both techniques work great, but taking a year off could result in a big green monster of regret.

Continued on page 22 The Growing Concern | August 2026 | 21

continued from page 21

Vines can grow in several ways. Some will twist themselves around something like a boa constrictor, some have tiny rootlets to grab a surface, and some will use little tendrils to twist around something skinny and hold on. Parthenocissus climbs with modified tendrils that have little flat pads that can excrete a small amount of calcium carbonate (same material that makes up limestone), which it uses as an incredibly strong glue to adhere to nearly any type of surface. This glue is so strong that should you try to remove the plant from something, you can plan on the little pads staying behind forever. Calcium carbonate is water-insoluble, which means you won’t be washing them off the surface unless you bust out some acid (which likely won’t be good for the structure, you, or the plants around you).

The rapid, perhaps “aggressive” nature of vines is why we caution you to use foresight when using these plants to avoid the transition from desired ornamental to weed. While we have not noticed reseeding issues with Boston ivy we certainly see that bird planting of Virginia creeper is quite common. Perhaps you’ve even noticed how Virginia creeper will seemingly pop up in the middle of a landscape bed. This is because the fruit is quickly eaten by birds and the seeds are dispersed at random across the area.

Parthenocissus are in the Vitaceae family (grapes) and will get a grape-like fruit in autumn, which is the season for this plant to really take center stage. Virginia creeper is one of the first plants to turn color in fall, displaying the brightest of reds and easily seen along trunks of trees along the highway. Boston ivy won’t be too far behind with the same blast of red. When the leaves fall the fruit is most notable as it was hiding under the leaves before.

Little quarter-inch grape-like fruits are deep purple/black with a bluish bloom to them and held on deep red pedicels (stem). The color contrast is beautiful but not a showstopper as you need to be close to the plants to see them.

The biggest visual difference you will see between these two plants is in the leaves, as indicated by the botanical names.

First, Parthenocissus. Parthenos is derivative of the Greek word for “virgin” and cissus for “ivy”. Why “Virgin Ivy”? This genus of plants has the ability to set fruit (we are not sure if it is viable) without pollination. Now, the specific epithets reveal the difference. Quinquefolia is derivative of quin “five” and folia “leaf/foliage” meaning with five leaves. In truth, a bit misleading as it is five leaflets of one leaf, but they are palmate compound with a long enough rachis to make each leaflet look like a separate leaf. Tricuspidata brings us tri “three” cusp “points” which very accurately describes the mature leaves of the plant, which are palmate-lobed with three points, kind of like a big green duck foot. An interesting feature towards the base (perhaps the bottom foot or so) is the presence of juvenile foliage (more often on P. tricuspidata). This juvenile foliage is palmate compound with just three leaflets and can resemble poison ivy to many people. In fact, not a summer goes by where at least a few people don’t do their Good Samaritan duty and alert Shelley to the “poison ivy” growing so nicely along the brick walls at Stan Hywet. She takes them over and shows how it just the juvenile foliage of the Boston ivy and they have no need to worry; this has no urushiol in it, which is the chemical compound that causes the allergic reaction in true poison ivy (Toxicodendron radicans).

Give some consideration to these two next time you are faced with needing to cover an unsightly wall or need to create some shade on a building quickly. When you are working in the urban environment, remember the ability of these two to tolerate nearly anything but napalm (also, think how they can cover a large space with green where a tree never could grow). Perhaps explore the few cultivars that exist, such as the Variegated Virginia creeper or ‘Fenway Park’ Boston ivy that starts the season with a bright yellow leaf that will fade to a deep shiny green and end with the bright red fall color it is known for. These two great vines can save the day when the site is right; keep them in your arsenal!

Jim Funai, PhD, is full-time faculty at Cuyahoga Community College, a NALP accredited associate of applied science in hoticulture degree program. He has a PhD in Landscape Engineering and Forestry and is a Licensed Arborist. Shelley Funai is Grounds Manager at Stan Hywett Hall and Gardens in Akron, Ohio, which offers a historic estate designed

by Warren H. Manning and a beautiful manor house museum. She is Landscape Industry Certified in Ornamental Plant Care.

22 | Official Publication of The Ohio Landscape Association

The Growing Concern | August 2026 | 23

F EATURE ARTI CLE

HOW I DO IT:

TURNING A TEENAGE SIDE HUSTLE INTO A $2 MILLION BUSINESS Aidan Friel, president and CEO of Blue River Landscape & Design, based in Bridgeport, Pennsylvania, was 15 when he started his company in 2021 and made $60,000 in annual revenue in his first year. Now at 20 years old, his business is projecting around $2 million.

Like many others in the industry, Friel originally launched his business as a way to save up money to afford college.

However, unlike others who began by mowing lawns, Friel used his background knowledge of landscaping to start out doing design and install work.

LEARNING FROM INDUSTRY IMMERSION Friel says every aspect of the business has been self-taught. He’s learned over time by attending industry events, networking with peers and reading different materials online.

“There’s no better way to learn than hands-on,” Friel says.

Despite his young age, Friel presented himself in such a professional manner that no one doubted his abilities, and many assumed he was older than he was at the time. By the time Friel was 17, he realized that landscaping was where his true passion lay and decided to forgo going to college.

“Now every day is like a college class, learning something new,” Friel says. “We’re building on our skills. We’re always just trying to be a little bit better than we were yesterday.”

24 | Official Publication of The Ohio Landscape Association

“There was a lot of trial and error. If I told you there wasn’t, I would be completely lying to you. It’s not all sunshine and rainbows, that’s for sure. We’re still figuring things out along the way, and anyone who says that they got it completely figured out, in my opinion, is just lying.” Friel says when they encounter those errors while learning, how they go about making the end result right for the client is what matters the most to them.

Continued on page 26

PREPARE FOR WINTER WITH A NEW CENTRAL HYDRAULIC DUMP BODY, PLOW AND SPREADER!

• PTO “live drive” central hydraulic for hoist and spreader operated by control box in cab • PTO central will cut down on noise, vibration and maintenance • Expandable “Wide out” plow option for narrow or wide services • Stainless steel dump body for corrosion resistance and durability • Strobe light package for safety • Power tarp, tool box and step ladder options for ease of operation • Spreader light included with stainless steel under tailgate spreader • Year round usable heavy duty dump truck

We Build Work Trucks! 440-359-1010 / zoresco.com The The Growing Growing Concern Concern || August March 2026 | 25

Continued from page 24

KNOWING THEIR NICHE Friel says if he were starting the business all over, he would prioritize building the brand before taking jobs he didn’t necessarily want just to fill the schedule. Their niche is high-end full-scale residential projects that transition to maintenance contracts. “We’re really good at making their dreams come true,” Friel says. “So, we’re really good at executing from start to finish.”

Previously, the company was known as VIP Landscaping, and Friel decided to rebrand the company this year to help them get away from the smaller projects that don’t work for the company anymore. The business is named after the landscaping company his father started in the early 2000s in Colorado.

GATHERING INSIGHTS FROM THE FAMILY BUSINESS

“No matter what happens, we’re going to make it right,” Friel says. “It doesn’t matter if I lose money. It doesn’t matter if the project is completely unprofitable. It doesn’t matter if we have to completely redo it. We’re going to make it right because that’s just what we want to be known for.”

He says the most challenging part of the business is simply having to create everything from scratch and wearing all the different hats to ensure the business runs smoothly.

“Executing the jobs, that comes easy because that just comes with the passion, drive and the good team to back it,” Friel says. “But all the backend stuff, it might not be your favorite thing to do, but it has to get done. It’s some of the most important pieces of running a landscape company.”

Friel says as he’s grown the business, he has been able to pass on some of the different responsibilities to various team members. One of the reasons the company has been able to scale up so quickly is thanks to Friel being creative with financing. He admits that he has taken risks when it comes to marketing, hiring and purchasing compared to others.

Yet he says there have been plenty of times where these risks haven’t paid off.

26 | Official Publication of The Ohio Landscape Association

Growing up, Friel’s father didn’t want him to have anything to do with the industry. Friel’s grandfather and father immigrated in the 1970s from Ireland. After working on the Alaskan pipeline, Friel’s grandfather ended up moving to Pennsylvania and bought a small landscape company and started mowing lawns. Friel’s father helped with the business, but it never grew. Friel says he learned from watching his grandfather struggle with his company what not to do. He says one of the main things he learned to avoid was not having a plan. He says his grandfather worked in the business rather than on it. When his grandfather put the business up for sale, and Friel tried to purchase it, his father told him if he wanted to get into this industry, he’d have to build a business himself. Friel admits at first he was angry with his father for turning him down; he wanted the security of having clientele to start with.

“That first year going into it (full-time) was very scary that we weren’t going to have enough work,” Friel says. “But we did, and I made it work. That proved to myself that I didn’t need that; I stepped out of my comfort zone. Now I look back, and I thank him for that, because I would have been stuck in that little bubble, whereas now everything’s self-built.”

Another lesson that Friel learned from his grandfather was the cost of operating rundown equipment, which prompted him to run an equipment-heavy business.

“Some people have told me that’s stupid,” Friel says. “Other people spend $20,000 a month on fixing equipment. We may spend $20,000 a month on financing equipment. We have no downtime, though, so you take it in strides. There’s no right or wrong answer to any of these.”

Friel’s three core employees have been with him from day one, and his current full-time staff is seven to eight employees, with 60-70 employees who help with the snow work. He says he’s not looking to have a ton of employees on staff, but to produce the best-quality work.

Friel says they opt to replace their equipment every one to three years as he wants to avoid unnecessary breakdowns.

They will conduct equity evaluations to see how much money they will either lose or make on the equipment.

He says he retains his team members by treating them well and giving them trust and respect.

“It’s just being able to find that fine line between what makes sense for the business, being able to afford these larger pieces of machinery,” Friel says.

BUILDING A TIGHT TEAM Another reason that Blue River is an equipment-heavy business is because Friel prioritizes his team members’ wellbeing. He says he wants to ensure he’s building a company where people are happy and excited about the next step.

“We want to make sure that our employees are not only happy, but they’re healthy,” Friel says. “That’s not only just from a safety standpoint, but that’s also from a longevity standpoint.

We want the machines to do the heavy lifting.”

“Giving people the ability to try and fail and learn from that is the best way, in my opinion, to be able to grow the company,” Friel says. “People need to learn the way that they want to learn. Because if I’m teaching them a way that they don’t understand, and it doesn’t work for them, we’re going to butt heads and it’s never going to work.”

Friel says he’s close with his team and will discuss with them their goals to make sure they are all aligned and working as a team to get there.

“Everyone has their own their personal needs and wants, but I try and take that into account as a company owner and from there, build the company based on what my people want,” Friel says.

This article was written by Jill Odom for the National Associations of Landscape Professional’s blog, “The Edge”.

The Growing Concern | August 2026 | 27

F EATURE ARTI CLE

SUNSHINE PROTECTION ACT

MOVES FORWARD — BUT THE SENATE REMAINS THE KEY HURDLE

For years, Americans have debated whether it is time to end the twice-yearly ritual of “springing forward” and “falling back.” This month, Congress took another significant step toward that goal as the U.S. House of Representatives passed the Sunshine Protection Act, legislation that would make Daylight Saving Time (DST) permanent nationwide. The bill now awaits consideration in the Senate.

The House approved the Sunshine Protection Act with broad bipartisan support by a vote of 308-117, sending the measure to the Senate. If approved by the Senate and signed by the President, the legislation would end the biannual clock changes by making Daylight Saving Time the permanent, year-round standard for most of the United States. Hawaii and most of Arizona, which already observe permanent standard time, would remain unaffected.

Although there is widespread public frustration with changing clocks twice each year, the legislation faces a more uncertain path in the Senate. Similar proposals have repeatedly stalled despite bipartisan support, largely because senators remain divided over whether the country should adopt permanent Daylight Saving Time, permanent Standard Time, or retain the current system. Sleep medicine experts have also expressed concerns that permanent Daylight Saving Time would result in darker winter mornings and could negatively affect circadian rhythms, school safety, and public health. continued on page 29

28 | Official Publication of The Ohio Landscape Association

Visit Us Online kurtz-bros.com or Call (216) 230-5553

YOUR LANDSCAPE STARTS HERE.

Scan the QR Code to Find a Store Near You! The Growing Concern August 2026 | 29 TOPSOIL • MULCH • COMPOST • STONE • PAVERS & |MORE

continued from page 28

The bill has more momentum than previous efforts. It has:

•

Passed the House with a strong bipartisan vote.

•

Received support from President Trump, who has advocated ending the twice-yearly clock changes.

•

Continued to receive bipartisan interest in both chambers of Congress.

Even so, Senate approval is far from guaranteed. Unlike the House, where the measure advanced comfortably, senators remain divided on whether permanent Daylight Saving Time is the best solution. Some lawmakers favor permanent Standard Time instead, while others question whether Congress should act at all. Until the Senate schedules and approves the bill, its ultimate prospects remain uncertain.

WE’VE BEEN HERE BEFORE While the current debate feels new, the United States has already experimented with permanent Daylight Saving Time.

In response to the 1973 oil embargo and the nation’s energy crisis, Congress enacted the Emergency Daylight Saving Time Energy Conservation Act, placing the country on yearround Daylight Saving Time beginning in January 1974.

The expectation was that additional evening daylight would reduce energy consumption.

As public opinion shifted, Congress reversed course. After less than a year, lawmakers restored seasonal clock changes, ending the experiment with permanent Daylight Saving Time in October 1974.

That history serves as an important reminder that while many Americans agree they dislike changing clocks twice a year, there is less agreement on which permanent time standard the nation should adopt.

WHAT HAPPENS NEXT? For now, Americans should expect the current schedule of changing clocks twice a year to remain in place unless the Senate approves the legislation and it is signed into law.

Whether Congress ultimately adopts permanent Daylight Saving Time, permanent Standard Time, or maintains the status quo, one thing is clear: the debate over America’s clocks is far from over, and lawmakers continue to wrestle with balancing convenience, public health, safety, and economic considerations.

This article was written by Andrew Bray, VP of government relations for National Associations of Landscape Professional, for NALP’s blog, “The Edge” and was published on July 27, 2026.

Initially, public support was strong. However, enthusiasm faded quickly as Americans experienced extremely late winter sunrises. In many parts of the country, children waited for school buses in darkness, commuters traveled during darker morning hours, and concerns over safety grew.

30 | Official Publication of The Ohio Landscape Association

Northeast ohio’s Most CoMplete seed house For over 80 Years

2026

Landscape Ohio! quality lawn seed mixes turf/ornamental fertilizers

AWARDS

OCTOBER 8, 2026 AT TENK WES T BANK

erosion control products forage/wildlife seed mixes hydroseeding products custom seed mixes wildflower seed mixes

Member of the Ohio Landscape Association for over 25 years. Members of the GCSSA, Ohio Turfgrass Foundation, and ONLA

CONGRATULATIONS to our 2026 winner of the OLA

Award for Lifetime Contributions to the Landscape Industry

OLIGER SEED COMPANY

89 Hanna Parkway, Akron, OH 44319 Phone: 330-724-1266 • Fax: 330-724-4810

VISIT WWW.OLIGERSEED.COM

JIM FUNAI, PH.D.

Assistant Professor of Plant Science and Landscape Technology at Cuyahoga Community College

Jim will be recognized at the 29th Annual Landscape Ohio! Awards Program on October 8th at Tenk West Bank.

The Growing Concern | August 2026 | 31

2026

Landscape Ohio!

AWARDS

O C T O B E R 8 , 2 02 6 AT TENK WES T BANK

We are thrilled to invite you to be part of an extraordinary evening at the 29th Annual Landscape Ohio! Awards Program. The stage will be set to celebrate the excellence of Ohio’s Landscape Leaders.

Our awards program, sponsorships, and educational outreach thrive because of the generosity of OLA members like you. Your support highlights all of the amazing things our members do, helps build the next generation of landscape leaders, and helps the OLA provide events that inspire and educate.

SCHEDULE OF EVENTS 5:30-6:15 pm Doors Open & Registration Hors D’Oeuvres Stations 5:30-8:30 pm Cocktails (Cash Bar) 6:30-7:30 pm Dinner Stations, Dessert & Coffee 7:30-8:45 pm Landscape Awards Ceremony

Tickets

Tenk West Bank 2111 Center Road Cleveland, OH 44113

$115 for Individual Ticket $220 for Two Tickets $420 for Four Tickets $800 for Eight Tickets (Table)

Tenk West Bank is one of the oldest surviving industrial buildings in the Flats.

Originally built in the 1870s as the Eclipse Iron Works foundry, many original features remain including loadbearing brick, beams, and the signature arched window bays. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the building’s brick color shifts, mixed masonry, and repurposed stone blocks make it a true West Bank icon.

Deadline is September 24.

No refunds on unused tickets.

Tickets can be purchased at www.OhioLandscapers.org.

Sponsorship Opportunities

Sponsorships include: 2 complimentary tickets, company logo on event signage, company recognition in awards presentation & logo on the big screen, company logo on OLA website, social media, and recognition in The Growing Concern Magazine.

CATEGORY | $940 (16 AVAILABLE)

STAGE PRODUCTION | $1100 (4 AVAILABLE)

REGISTRATION | $940 (1 AVAILABLE)

PHOTO BOOTH | $1600 (2 AVAILABLE)

Take pictures with the winning teams Network and greet attendees

BAR SPONSOR | $940 (6 AVAILABLE) Classic cocktail named in your honor

JUDGE’S CHOICE AWARD | $960 (2 AVAILABLE) Take picture with winning team

HORS D’OEUVRES | $1100 (4 AVAILABLE) Will be asked to stand for recognition

Will be asked to stand for recognition Will have logo on photo print out Will be asked to stand for recognition

CENTERPIECES | $1600 (SOLD)

Company name attached to centerpieces Will be asked to stand for recognition

DINNER | $1900 (4 AVAILABLE)

Will be asked to stand for recognition

DESSERT | $2500 (SOLD)

Will be asked to stand for recognition

9240 Broadview Road Broadview Heights, OH 44147 Phone: 440-717-0002 Toll Free: 1-800-335-6521 Email: info@ohiolandscapers.org OhioLandscapers.org

Deadline for sponsorships is September 24.

Visit the OLA website or contact Patty to purchase.

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR’S COLUMN

AWARDS REGISTRATION IS OPEN

PATTY LAMPERT

Executive Director / OLA The 29th Annual Landscape Ohio! Awards will be on October 8th at Tenk West Bank! The stage will be set to celebrate the excellence of Ohio’s landscape leaders. Registration and sponsorship opportunities are open, and please reach out to Patty with any questions.

We are excited to announce that Jim Funai, Ph.D., Assistant Professor: Plant Science and Landscape Technology at Cuyahoga Community College will receive the Award for Lifetime Contributions to the landscape industry!

Our awards program, sponsorships and educational outreach thrive due to the generosity of OLA members like you. We are so GRATEFUL for everyone’s support, and for all of the amazing things OLA members do to help inspire and build the next generation of landscape leaders.

Thank YOU for helping us Educate, Advocate, and Elevate those around us, to create relationships, connections, and partnerships that will further everyone’s success.

SCHEDULE OF EVENTS 5:30-6:15 pm Doors Open & Registration Hors D’Oeuvres Stations 5:30-8:30 pm Cocktails (Cash Bar) 6:30-7:30 pm Dinner Stations, Dessert & Coffee 7:30-8:45 pm Landscape Awards Ceremony Tenk West Bank: 2111 Center Street, Cleveland, OH 44113 There are three self-pay parking lots around Tenk.

A parking map will be shared prior to the event.

34 | Official Publication of The Ohio Landscape Association

UPCOMING EVENTS Save the date for these following events. Registration will be available soon.

September 25 Plant Healthcare (Approved for pesticide/fertilizer and ISA credits!)

October 15 Sandler Leadership Clinic November 4 Sandler Sales Training November 18 Annual Meeting December 4 Dormant Pruning

2026 OLA SPONSORS THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT! MAGAZINE ADVERTISERS

EVENING

EDUCATION

• Botson Insurance Group

• Alta

• Kurtz Bros., Inc.

• Davis Tree Farm

• Bigfoot Landscape Supply

• Ditch Witch Mid States

• Botson Insurance Group

• En Garde Deer Defense

• Davis Tree Farm

• Kurtz Bros., Inc.

• Columbus Turf

• Oliger Seed Co.

• Crown Cars

• O’Reilly Equipment

• Eby

• Preston Superstore

• Kurtz Bros., Inc.

• Valley Truck Centers

• Mulch Mule

• Zoresco Equipment

• PC Services, LLC

EVENTS

MEETINGS

Co nta c t Pa tty a b o ut sp o nsorshi p o r a d ve rtising info rm a tio n at Patty@ o hio la nd sc a pers.org o r 440-717-0002

• Valley City Supply • Willoway Nurseries

ADVERTISING INDEX 7 25 38 25 31

Botson Insurance Group, Inc. Davis Tree Farm Ditch Witch Mid States En Garde Deer Defense Kurtz Bros., Inc.

33 33 2 9 27

Oliger Seed Co. O’Reilly Equipment Preston Superstore Valley Truck Centers Zoresco Equipment

Find information about advertising in The Growing Concern at https://www.ohiolandscapers.org The Growing Concern | August 2026 | 35

Seasonal Specials!

1-888-DITCHWITCH | DitchWitchMidstates.com |earthworxequipment.com

Ditch Witch Mini Skid Steers

Bandit Chippers*

Bandit Stump Grinders*

Hyundai Compact Excavators

CMC Tracked Aerial Lifts*

Attachments & Trailers

Hyundai Compact Track Loaders

GiANT Wheel Loaders

New & Used Equipment Sales, Leasing, Rental, Parts, Service and Training *All products may not be available at all locations.

Contact information for major metropolitan areas Columbus, OH Full Service Branch 3660 Interchange Rd, Columbus, OH 43204 Phone 614-443-9751 | Fax 614-443-9219

Pittsburgh, PA Full Service Branch 9052 Marshall Rd, Cranberry Twp, PA 16066 Phone 724-742-2844 | Fax 724-742-2877

Cleveland, OH Full Service Branch 10224 Avon Lake Rd, Burbank, OH 44214 Phone 330-220-6585 | Fax 614-443-9219

Louisville, KY Full Service Branch 400 Sparrow Dr, Shepherdsville, KY 40165 Phone 502-543-3309 | Fax 502-543-9613

Cincinnati, OH Service Center 3449 Turfway Rd, Erlanger, KY 41018 Phone 513-672-3060 | By Appointment Only

Batavia, NY Service Center 4754 East Saile Dr, Batavia, NY 14020 Phone 585-334-2920 | By Appointment Only