Issuu

So Much To Do, So Much To See... Visit Vendor Exhibits

Attend 2 FREE Education Sessions (earn CE) MIDWEST TRADING HORTICULTURAL SUPPLIES, INC.® a Midwest-Orum Company

Welcome 2016 Mix Plant Tours

Nursery Tours

Demo Equipment

Compete in the Yellow Iron Rodeo

Summer Field Day August 4, 2016 8:30 am - 3:00 pm

July 2016

CONTENTS

Excellence In Landscape Awards Project

FOCUS: Summer Field Day Preview It’s Summertime and the Learning is Easy Summer Field Day at Midwest’s Virgil location

Summer Field Day Exhibitors 20 Complete show layout and exhibitor list

Mosquito Abatement! 24 Put the bite on those little bloodsuckers ILCA Forms Strategic Alliance with CF&G show 28 ILCA gets opportunity to speak to consumer market Summer Business Tune Up Aristotle in the Boardroom

Three Crucial Questions for Uncovering Bias

Does Your Company Need a Service Overhaul?

Committee Chair Profile 52 Erika Walters, Latino Relations Committee Member Profile 56 Express Capital Solutions, Inc. Plant All-Stars 62 Acer rubrum ‘Frank Jr.’ Redpointe® Maple

EN ESPAÑOL

It’s Summertime and the Learning is Easy El verano ha llegado y el aprendizaje es fácil

On the cover... Summer Field Day from above. Aerial lift courtesy of Rentalmax. The Landscape Contractor July 2016

62 3

CONTENTS

DEPARTMENTS ILCA Calendar From Where I Stand President’s Message New Members Classified Ads Advertisers Index Photo Credits ILCA Awards Program Midwest Companies Rick Reuland Hinsdale Nurseries

Calendar

4 5 7 54 57 61

AUGUST August 4, 2016 Summer Field Day Midwest Groundcovers/Midwest Trading Virgil, IL

1, 8-9, 28-30 10-16, 18, 34-38 17-18, 38,, 52 62

The official publication of the Illinois Landscape Contractors Association (ILCA), The Landscape Contractor is dedicated to educating, advising and informing members of this industry and furthering the goals of the Association. The Landscape Contractor carries news and features relating to landscape contracting, maintenance, design and allied interests. Publisher is not responsible for unsolicited material and reserves the right to edit any article or advertisement submitted for publication. Publication reserves right to refuse advertising not in keeping with goals of Association. WWW.ilca.net Volume 57, Number 7. The Landscape Contractor (ISSN # 0194-7257, USPS # 476-490) is published monthly for $75.00 per year by the Illinois Landscape Contractors Association, 2625 Butterfield Road, Ste. 104S, Oak Brook, IL 60523. Periodicals postage paid at Oak Brook, IL and additional mailing offices. Printed in USA. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to The Landscape Contractor, 2625 Butterfield Road, Ste 104S, Oak Brook, IL 60523. DISPLAY ADVERTISING SALES: Association Publishing Partners, Inc., Ph. (630) 637-8632 Fax (630) 637-8629 email: rmgi@comcast.net CLASSIFIED ADS, CIRCULATION AND SUBSCRIPTION: ILCA (630) 472-2851 Fax (630) 472-3150 PUBLISHER/EDITORIAL OFFICE: Rick Reuland, rmgi@comcast.net, Naperville, IL 60540 Ph. (630)637-8632 PRODUCT DISCLAIMER: The Illinois Landscape Contractors Association, its Board of Directors, the Magazine Committee, ILCA Staff, The Landscape Contractor and its staff, neither endorse any products nor attest to the validity of any statements made about products mentioned in this, past or subsequent issues of this publication.

ILCA Staff

Magazine Staff

Executive Director Scott Grams (630) 472-2851 sgrams@ilca.net

Rick Reuland Publisher/Advertising Sales (630) 637-8632 rmgi@comcast.net

Education Manager Julie Nicoll jnicoll@ilca.net

Debbie Rauen Advertising Sales (817-501-2403) debbie.landscapecontractor@ yahoo.com

Events Manager Terre Houte thoute@ilca.net Office Manager Alycia O’Connor aoconnor@ilca.net Membership & Marketing Coordinator Marissa Sikirdji msikirdji@ilca.net

ILCA 2625 Butterfield Road Ste. 104S Oak Brook, IL 60523 (630) 472-2851 • Fax (630) 472-3150 www.ilca.net

v Becke Davis Senior Writer treethyme@aol.com Patrice Peltier Feature Writer patpeltier@charter.net Meta Levin Feature Writer meta.levin@comcast.net Barbara Dutton Feature Writer Nina Koziol Feature Writer Jim Fizzell jjfizz@aol.com

SAVE THE DATE! September 15, 2016 ILCA Golf Outing Village Links of Glen Ellyn

The Landscape Contractor July 2016

From Where I Stand — “In Staffordshire, if a person leaves home at the end of his week’s work on the Saturday afternoon to spend the evening of Saturday and the following Sunday with friends at a distance, he is said to be spending his week-end at So-and-so.” - Notes and Queries magazine, 1879. The first recorded use of the word “weekend.” “It’s the freakin’ weekend baby, I’m about to have me some fun” - R. Kelly, Ignition

Ah, the weekend. Is there a more beauti-

ful compound word in the English language? Ok, maybe “turducken,” but “weekend” is in the top 10. When I lived in Chicago, the drive home on a Friday afternoon was special. Car stereos were testing the limits of their volume knobs. The parks and playgrounds came alive. The whiff of charcoal filled the air as BBQs revved for the night ahead. Guys on bicycles rode home from liquor stores carefully balancing Old Style 30-packs on their knees while keeping the other hand on the handlebars. There is just something about a weekend that still bathes our brains in endorphins. Weekends are two days of “possibility.” Now, many weekends still end up being laziness mixed with house chores, but the fact of the matter is, it’s our time. No rules. No bosses. No alarm clocks. In the words of Canadian 80’s rockers Loverboy, “Everybody’s working for the weekend.” One of the first depressing signs of maturity is when Fridays begin to feel like every other day. In your 20’s, Friday fidgeting began around 11am. We limped and crawled to the finish line. Projects could wait. That email could wait. That call back could wait. We just had to get to 5pm, and then the brain could go on vacation for 48 hours. As we get older, the raucous, late nights make way to honey-do lists, kids jumping on the bed at 6am demanding breakfast, and weed-pulling. Still, weekends belong to us. They are our reward for playing the game. In June of 2016, the City of Naperville proposed an ordinance that would restrict the hours professional landscape companies could work on weekends. Currently, maintenance contractors in Naperville are allowed to work from 7am-7pm, seven days a week. The revised ordinance would limit hours on Saturday from 8am-4pm and completely forbid landscape maintenance work on Sundays. When the newspaper article first slid across my desk I cracked my knuckles and prepared to fire off an angry letter to the City Council about government intervention and curtailing the freedoms of private business owners. I was ready with the familiar arguments of early hours are safer for landscape employees laboring in the heat and weather delays complicate schedules. President Maulding, who passed the article in my direction, asked me to think a little deeper about the issue. He explained that weekend warrior landscapers, especially those who routinely work on Sundays, were often the very contractors ILCA has identified as being part of a larger problem. Most landscape companies rarely work on Sundays except in instances of extreme weather-related delays. Some landscape companies have even ceased operations or limit hours on Saturdays. Yet, wake up early on a Sunday and you will still see landscape trucks and trailers filling up their gas tanks for the day ahead. The reason this

subset of companies work on Sundays has nothing to do with weather delays. Many of these companies either involve landscape laborers working side jobs or teem with workers from outside the green industry who work other jobs from Monday through Friday. Given that many of these firms only employ workers for the weekend, most pay in cash and that is likely not the only corner being cut. There is obviously a client base for these contractors. These companies stay busy on Sundays mowing and blowing. Some even do construction projects. On its surface, it seems cruel to root for cities like Naperville to pass restrictive ordinances that would essentially shut down these weekend warriors. Yet, does it matter if these companies are competing illegally on a Sunday versus a Tuesday? These companies are still driving the price of landscape maintenance down, not to mention bottling up hundreds of potential laborers. Now, Naperville isn’t passing this ordinance to address the plight of landscape companies. This has everything to do with the nuisance of landscape contractors revving mowers and leaf blowers on a Sunday afternoon. Residents don’t like sipping a morning cup of coffee or reading a book on their sun kissed porches while a team of landscape laborers whir 2-cycle engines just over the fence line. This has everything to do with Naperville trying to make their town a more serene place to live. Although this has nothing to do with cleaning up the landscape industry, shutting down weekend warriors could be a major collateral benefit. Truth be told, ILCA has never even thought about this angle before as we begin to identify ways to help public bodies crack down on illegal operators. Yet, the Sunday restrictions are such a simple and elegant solution to a complex problem. It isn’t easy for a fellow landscape contractor, code enforcement official, or resident to tell if a landscape contractor is working illegally. No one puts a cardboard sign in their windshield that reads, “no insurance, no FEIN.” There are ways to check, but they are cumbersome and take effort and time. Seeing a landscape crew working on a Sunday, when it’s against village policy, is pretty simple. All of a sudden, every village resident becomes a policeman. The 7-day week is actually an entirely human construct. Most of the other ways we use to measure time have a concrete basis in astronomy. The year is based on the annual rotation of the earth around the sun. The month is roughly the time it takes for the moon to run its lunar cycle. The day is one complete revolution of the earth including both night and day. Yet, the week is completely arbitrary. A week could actually be two days, 12 days, or 30 days. The “week” actually comes from the ancient Babylonians. Long before early Christian scholars were drafting the Bible, the 7-day week was installed as a fixture of ancient life. Ironically, the week is based on the fallibility of man. The Babylonians believed that there were seven planets in the solar system. Although, they weren’t too far off, they missed one planet and one, well, whatever Pluto is now. The number seven gained cultural significance and the Babylonians created the week that we still use today, almost 4,000 years later. So, that explains the week, but what about the weekend. The Atlantic magazine wrote a fascinating article on the origins of the 5-day workweek. Shockingly, the term weekend is less than 140 years old. It’s weird to think that the lightbulb is actually older than the weekend. For centuries, Sunday was reserved in many Christian cultures as a day of rest, reflection, and church attendance. Yet, the weekend has much more secular origins. In fact, the origins of the 1870s weekend are still readily apparent today. The modern 2-day weekends were

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started by partiers. To put it a little less politely, 2-day weekends were started by drunken heathens. In England, the working class began enjoying their weekends, perhaps a little too much. Instead of spending the day sitting in pews, they spent their days sitting on bar stools. Sunday revelry became so raucous that many of the working class began missing work on Monday. Factory owners called Mondays, the “Feast of St. Monday” as many workers used the day to recover from a rough Sunday of drinking, gambling, fighting, and rabblerousing. Eventually, factory owners came up with a compromise. They would allow their employees to take a half day on Saturday in exchange for mandatory attendance on Monday. This allowed the working class to recover on their own time and then show up, fresh as daisies on Monday morning, moaning the drunkard’s promise to, “never drink again.” As European industrialism spread to the new world, many American industries followed suit. As the depression descended across the land, a full Saturday and Sunday off was a way that business owners improved morale in light of a decreased need for productivity. The 2-day weekend was solidified in American culture and we have never let go. Most futurists predict the American workweek will continue to shrink. Many of these futurists have been completely wrong, but writers at the turn of the 20th century were predicting 15-20 hour workweeks by the year 2000. Technology and innovation would make our jobs easier with no decrease in productivity. We embrace technology at warp speed yet I still don’t know many companies paying full freight for a 15-hour work week. Not even those wacky tech companies with foosball tables and water slides and sundae bars. So, for now, we still slog our way through 40-hour workweeks. Landscape contractors in season, drown in 80-hour workweeks knowing the late summer will bring some relief. Shortening our workweeks still seem like the pipedreams of futurists and it’s not like landscape companies can work from home. You don’t need to be a psychologist or anthropologist to understand the benefits of a weekend. There is ample research that demonstrates the recuperative power of time away from the office. Whether you spend your Sunday in church, Soldier Field, glued to a sectional couch, or all three, it’s vital to take time for ourselves and for our families. This returns us back to the proposed Naperville ordinance. Where do you stand? Is this myopic governmental overreach or a clever way to shut down weekend warriors? Perhaps Naperville accidentally stumbled on to a solution that pleases residents and improves the professional landscape community. Is this an ordinance that should not only be supported by the ILCA, but actively advocated for as a model for other communities? The benefits of keeping workers home on Sundays are numerous. These range from physical and psychological regeneration to making sure they don’t use their “day off” to push someone else’s equipment. The Libertarian in me hates the idea of a municipal government dictating work hours. Yet, the pragmatist in me sees tremendous upside. Even God took a day off. Maybe the only solution is eliminating Sunday work and chaining employees to their lawn chairs with daiquiris duct taped to their hands. St. Monday will thank you for your efforts.

Scott Grams June 18, 2016

The Landscape Contractor July 2016

President’s Message — I have always wanted the opportunity to give back to the association for all the educa-

tion and guidance it has given me over the years. I attribute the success of my company largely to the many ILCA programs and events my staff and I have attended throughout the years. They say you always get back as much as you give, therefore it has been important for me and my company to be involved in the ILCA. The main goal of the Board of Directors for the next year is to improve the public image of our industry. The association will be reaching out to your future customers and employees to educate them as to what our industry is all about. The Board had its very first three-year strategic planning session this year. The plan will serve as the road map to help us achieve the association’s goals within the coming years. I would like to share some of the highlights from the plan:

President

Mike Schmechtig Schmechtig Landscape Company (847) 566-1233 mschmechtig@schmechtiglandscapes.com

Vice-President

Lisa Fiore Kositzki Don Fiore Company, Inc. (847) 234-0020 lfiore@donfiore.com

Professionalism:

Education — continuing and new. The importance of education cannot be expressed enough. It is an enlightening process providing each of us a path to a successful career and business. The ILCA analyzes its programs to keep the successful ones and introduce new programing. The association presents both business and technical education making an immediate impact on your day to day operations.

Secretary-Treasurer

Tom Lupfer Lupfer Landscaping (708) 352-2765 tom@lupferlandscaping.com

Membership — enrollment and involvement. The association encourages all members to reach out to others in the industry, asking them to join us. We encourage members to get involved by joining a committee, becoming a sponsor or attend events, both fun and educational.

Immediate Past President Rusty Maulding Nature’s View (815) 592-7582 rusty@naturesview.info

Government Voice — laws and regulations. The association understands how laws, regulations and unions impact the industry. We have legislative representation at the state and federal government levels to educate the ILCA membership on new and changing legislation to include labor laws, health care and more.

Directors

Mark Breier National Seed Co. (630) 963-8787 mark.breier@natseed.com

Fiscal Responsibility:

Monitor — programs and events. The board reviews all programs for contribution and success to maximize value for the ILCA members and association.

Lisa Fiore Fiore Nursery and Landscape Supply (847) 913-1414 lisa@cjfiore.com

Money Management — managing financial accounts. The Board looks to maximize revenues for today and future reserves. Fiscal responsibility is essential to creating a better and stronger association. The choices we make today will determine our financial strength and impact the future of the ILCA.

Public Education and Image:

Jose Garcia Natural Creations Landscaping, Inc. (815) 724-0991 info@naturalcreationslandscaping.com

Marketing — develop and implement a cohesive marketing plan. This integrated plan will be an analysis of industry professionals who are members and those who are not, future customers and future employees. We will review what we are currently doing to reach these groups and what message to send them. A communication strategy will include examining social media (facebook, linkedin, twitter), email blasts, direct mailings, print ads, website and much more.

Allan Jeziorski Hartman Landscape (708) 403-8433 allan@hartmanlandscape.net

FLIP — Future Landscape Industry Professional Committee. This newly formed group will be reaching out to future employees in all aspects of life, including those considering a second career, to look at and consider the landscape industry. The Landscape Contractor magazine — digital edition. The digital edition benefits members on the go and reaches individuals who normally do not receive this publication but will find it when searching the internet.

Dean MacMorris Night Light, Inc. (630) 627-1111 dean@nightlightinc.net Kevin Manning K & D Enterprise Landscape Management, Inc. (815) 725-0758 kmanning@kdlandscapeinc.com Maureen Scheitz Acres Group (847) 526-4554 maureen.scheitz@acresgroup.com Donna Vignocchi Zych ILT Vignocchi, Inc. (847) 487-5200 dvignocchi@iltvignocchi.com

www.ilca.net

Environmental Leadership:

Sustainability — practices and education. Protecting the environment and keeping the delicate ecosystems of our planet in balance is part of the association’s mission statement. The ILCA will continue to develop sustainability education and practices. Tree Initiatives — develop and implement a strategy that builds a healthier and more diverse urban forest. The Chicago Region Trees Initiative is a collaboration of the Chicago region partners working together to develop and implement a strategy that builds a healthier and more diverse urban forest by 2040. The ILCA is one of ten key leadership organizations.

iLandscape:

Trade Show — 2017 will be the 4th year and iLandscape is one of the 50 fastest growing tradeshows in the country according to Tradeshow Executive Magazine. The ILCA is committed to its continued success. Through committee work, long-term planning and membership attendance, the show will continue to offer innovative programs, new exhibits and fun events. I want to thank the Board of Directors, the ILCA staff and members for your support and look forward to a successful year. Don’t forget to learn what is in store for this year’s Summer Field Day event on August 4th. See you there. Michael Schmechtig

June 14, 2016

The Landscape Contractor July 2016

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The final stage, Phase III, was built in summer 2015. This included a nature based playground and green infrastructure technologies. The nature based playground uses natural materials like wood and stone and includes an iconic tepee and musical instruments. New bike racks encourage students to ride to school, and a marked walking loop (3 laps/mile) and basketball hoops offer a variety of recreational options. Staying hydrated is now easy, with a new drinking fountain with water bottle refill station. Twentyfour new native shade trees are planted throughout the playground, and are labeled with tree i.d. plaques, so students can learn common and botanical names. The playground was historically flooded by rain runoff from the parking lot that scoured the turf and left mini-streams and ponds of standing water. Green infrastructure technologies - including rain gardens and a drywell underneath the nature based playground make the chronic mud and flooding a thing of the past. Results are that the open space is now regularly used, there are no more geese, and mud is not tracked onto clothes or inside the school.

a sustainable playground at Hammerschmidt Elementary School in Lombard, Illinois. As a community amenity, the space facilitates a connection to the natural world for the students. The project motto is, “transforming an ordinary schoolyard into a dynamic center for learning, health and fitness, conservation and community.” It provides a place to actively connect to the outdoors, and learn about conservation and nutrition. The project extends curriculum beyond the building walls; hands-on learning occurs in the naturalized areas, the Edible Garden and the outdoor classroom. In 2012, a campus Master Plan was prepared. The plan synthesized desires from students, faculty and community members into a vision that could be phased-in over time. In 2013, Phase I - The Edible Garden was built. Each grade now plants fresh vegetables, fruits, and herbs in raised beds and care for the garden all year. In fall 2014, Phase II - a new traditional playground set in hardwood mulch - was completed promoting strength and coordination development. The Landscape Contractor July 2016

Focus — Summer Field Day Preview

It’s Summer Time and the Learning is Easy …and so is the fun and camaraderie when ILCA members gather for a mid-season break to kick back and enjoy the day with industry friends and associates. by Barbara Dutton

As the peak of summer draws near, ILCA

members can look forward to gathering for a day of education, taking in some scenery, visiting with vendors, and perhaps sipping on a cold beer with colleagues at this year’s Summer Field Day, to be held on Thursday, Aug. 4, 2016. Scheduled from 8:30 a.m.-3:00 p.m., Summer Field Day 2016 will take place at Midwest Groundcovers/Midwest Trading in Virgil, Ill. For a $15 registration fee, members will not only be able to enjoy informational presentations and a tour of the host operation, but also have to an opportunity to speak one-onone with industry vendors, and choose an appealing lunch from a tempting selection of fare that includes black angus burgers and angus beef hot dogs. Mixing business and pleasure seems to define the tone set for the event. “Field Day is much different from other events that we do,” says ILCA Executive

Director Scott Grams, who explains that the approach taken in planning this year’s outing harks back to that of earlier such popular events – before Recessionary economic pressures curtailed the day’s activities – to “make it more of an industry holiday” by reintroducing activities that had been suspended. Besides the amusement and amity that Grams expects Summer Field Day attendees to experience, he emphasizes the value that the location of the event has to offer. “The opportunity to talk to vendors, and enjoy tours – in a drivable location – is tough to beat.”

The Landscape Contractor July 2016

Bring questions

Landscaping professionals will be able to avail themselves of a number of learning opportunities to be presented at Summer Field Day 2016. One key component of the day’s educational program is a panel being (continued on page 12)

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Focus — Summer Field Day Preview (continued from page 10) more about sustainable landscaping practices might wish to organized by Joe Hobson, president and chief operating officer check out the other key educational session to be delivered that of Midwest Trading Horticultural Supplies, Maple Park, Ill., day, “Sustainable Landscapes: They solve problems, are cost which is hosting the effective, and create day’s events. pollinator habitats Titled, “Cost Saving too!” presented by Tips for Common Jim Kleinwachter of Landscape Practices,” The Conservation the session, moderFoundation. ated by Hobson, will Not only will a explore such topics as formal educational the use of product in program be presented, bag configuration as but attendees will opposed to bulk form. have the opportunity “Commonly, people use to visit with vendors bulk all the time for all to learn about product jobs, but in reality that’s and service offernot the best decision for ings designed to help all applications.” says landscape contractors Hobson, discussing this Vermeer Midwest is the Premier sponsor for Field day and the organizer of the operate more effiYellow Iron Rodeo. topic example which ciently and expand demonstrates the importheir capabilities. tance of the subject on which the session will focus. Vendor booths will be set up for visitors to stop by to chat – an The panel discussion will allow for interaction with the activity enhanced by a contest to find garden gnomes strategiaudience, so Hobson advises attendees to “bring questions cally hidden throughout the exhibitor display area. they might have.” Likewise, event attendees wanting to know (continued on page 14)

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Focus — Summer Field Day Preview (continued from page 12) According to Christa Orum-Keller, vice president and owner of Midwest Groundcovers, St. Charles, Ill., and Chairman of Midwest Trading, businesses that comprise the family of companies hosting Field Day 2016, a large percentage of the companies’ business comes from landscape contractors, a compelling reason for becoming involved by hosting the event. “We’re doing it,” she explains, “to support the ILCA – our trade association.”

Drop-dead Gorgeous Plans and preparations for the multifaceted event have been led by the association’s Summer Field Day Committee. The body’s approach to organizing the event has impressed Orum-Keller. “The ILCA Field Day Committee is such a wonderful

and experienced group of people.” Representing the Committee is Summer Field Day 2016 Chairman Ed Roloff, who is plant manager at Old Castle Lawn & Garden Midwest’s Marseilles, Ill., facility, and who sees the event as “a great opportunity for people to get out and view what might be new in the industry, and to talk with folks about business in general. “The venue itself will be a highlight,” he continues. “The Midwest Companies have always done a great job at putting on shows and they have several new features at the facility that we’re sure attendees will want to see.” Indeed, looking forward to showcasing her enterprise’s Virgil setup, OrumKeller is anticipating “a fun and enjoyable day. “We want to show our beautiful site and let people see the state-ofthe-art nursery facility and mixing plant – the heart of our production operation for both companies,” (continued on page 16)

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Focus — Summer Field Day Preview (continued from page 14) says Orum-Keller of her aspirations for the event, which has been in the planning stages for some two years and is an effort to which some 15 of the companies’ employees have been deployed. Overseeing arrangements for Midwest is the companies’ marketing manager, Jill Bondi, who reports that, while it’s difficult to calculate the amount of time invested in their effort, “There are many people involved at different capacities throughout the months of preparation. We started meeting and planning last September, shortly after the 2015 Field Day, to discuss how we can be great hosts and create a welcoming, fun event.” The business will feature its new, 38-acre shrub-growing

facility, which Orum-Keller explains will significantly expand the companies’ production, and about which she conveys much pride. “We certainly want our core customers to see our beautiful site and associated production capabilities,” she remarks. “Our location in Virgil is in major farm country,” relates Hobson. “It’s a beautiful and esthetic environment featuring a drop-dead gorgeous nursery.”

A great asset

New this year to Summer Field Day is an event that replaces the bag-tossing competition run at previous Summer Field Days and will allow landscape pros to demonstrate their abil-

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ity to operate various tools of the trade: “We’re going to have an operator rodeo!” announces Roloff. Sponsored by Vermeer Midwest, an equipment dealer and service provider with an outlet in Aurora, Ill., “the 2016 Summer Field Day Yellow Iron Rodeo,” will present three competitions, each focusing on a type of equipment applicable to the landscape industry: a mini skid steer, a lawn plow, and a mini excavator. Operators will be required to perform a set of operations on a course, performance will be timed and awards given to those accomplishing tasks in the shortest time. Stu Senska, sales manager at Vermeer Midwest expresses his enthusiasm for this new feature, which he explains was “kind of the brainchild of the board” of ILCA. “We’re super excited about it!” he exclaims. “I think that’s going to be a great asset to the event,” remarks Roloff, “and a fun thing to do.” After testing out equipment, taking notes on business management ideas, and viewing vegetation on display, attendees might look for a refreshing chilled libation served up at the this year’s beer tent. According to Jim Matusik, president and owner of wholesale nursery stock distribution company The Tree Connection, Rochester, MI, which is sponsoring the attraction, the beer tent offers attendees a “relaxed situation and area” at the event, which says, “brings together quite a few people from the industry and gives them a chance to slow down have a cold beer talk about the season and look ahead to the fall.”

The primary thing

In organizing their summer plans, suggests Grams, ILCA members should make sure that their schedule allows them, as well as key staff, to participate in Summer Field Day 2016. “Take a day to interact with vendors, see new equipment,” he advises. “It’s such a colorful vibrant show – though sometimes loud.” Grams indicates that attendees can experience the event in a sequence – and to the degree – that suits their schedule and interests. “It’ll be up to each individual how they order their day,” he says of his hope that participants make the most of their visit, and soak up the atmosphere. “I want people to walk away being impressed with the facility.” (Continued on page 18)

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The Landscape Contractor July 2016

Focus — Summer Field Day Preview put the effort in,” he says. “We’ve always had great shows, and I expect this year to be no different.” A key objective for the day cited by Hobson is that “people leave the event and say, ‘Wow that was great!’” Conveying thoughts about presenting an opportunity to see the hosting facility, and enjoy a day of learning, relaxing and socializing, he declares, “We’re honored and humbled to do this. We want people to have a great day, learn, and be with friends.” For, as Hobson concludes, “This is not about the Midwest Companies, but about the landscaping industry – the primary thing.” (continued from page 17) Getting together informally with colleagues who are also friends is an opportunity recognized by Matusik, who observes that ILCA functions serve to create “a family of people in the industry.” Summer Field Day, for example, “is a step beyond ‘this is how the business is done,’” he remarks. “It’s a chance to share family stories as opposed to just business stories. You might have a conversation, 10 minutes of which is on business, and 20 minutes is on life.” “Summer Field Day is a great opportunity to gather and meet with others, in a relaxed situation,” concurs Roloff, who credits his committee with doing the work necessary to present another successful such event. “Hats off to everyone on the committee who

The Landscape Contractor July 2016

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The Landscape Contractor July 2016

Focus — Summer Field Day Preview

Exhibitors as of June 20 A. Block Marketing Alexander Equipment Company, Inc. Arlington Power Equipment Atlas Bobcat Bailey Nurseries, Inc. Ball Horticultural Beaver Creek Nursery Better Bilt Products, Inc. Burris Equipment Co. Cardno Native Plant Nursery Carlin Sales/Pro Green Plus Casey Equipment Co., Inc. Cassidy Tire Cedar Path Nursuries Central Sod Farms, Inc. Chicago Gas Lines College of DuPage Dayton Bag & Burlap Deere & Company DeVroomen Garden Products Ecoturf Midwest, Inc. Emergent Safety Supply Feece Oil Co. Gravely, An Ariens Company Brand Green Glen Nursery, Inc. Harrell’s LLC Hoffie Nursery Home Nursery, Inc. J. Frank Schmidt & Son Company Kafka Granite LLC Kaknes Landscape Supply, Inc. Kenney Outdoor Solutions 20

KO Supply Company, Inc. Kishwaukee College Kramer Tree Specialists Mariani Plants Martin Implement McCann Industries McGinty Bros., Inc. Midwest Stihl Monroe Truck Equipment Montale Gardens Northern Family Farms NYP Corp Ornamental Growers Association Patten Cat Pizzo Group/Pizzo Native Plant Nursery Premier Travertine Pro Gro Solutions ProLine Equipment Div. RCOP, Inc. Rental Max LLC Russo Power Equipment St. Aubin Nursery Techo-Bloc The Davey Tree Expert Company The Mulch Center The Tree Connection Twixwood Nursery, LLC United Label & SATO Vermeer Midwest West Side Tractor Sales Wilson Nurseries, Inc. Xylem Ltd/Rocks Etc. The Landscape Contractor July 2016

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Arthur Weiler, Inc. Clavey’s Nursery, Inc. Doty Nurseries LLC Fox Ridge Nursery Goodmark Nurseries, LLC GRO Horticultural Enterprises Hinsdale Nurseries, Inc. Kaneville Tree Farms, Inc. Kankakee Nursery Co. Kendall Hill Nursery Midwest Groundcovers Poul’s Nursery, Inc. Spring Grove Nursery, Inc. The Fields on Caton Farm, Inc.

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The Landscape Contractor 21 3/25/16 12:47 PM July 2016

Focus — Summer Field Day Preview

To Attendee Parking

Dining Tent

Registration R

100

102

Carlin Bailey Sales/ Nurseries ProGreen Plus

Food Service

104

Kafka Granite

106

110

108

20'0" x 20'0" 400

Mariani Plants

20'0" x 20'0" 400

Dayton KO Kenney Ornamental Better Bag Growers Outdoor Supply Bilt & Solutions203 Association Products207 Burlap 199 Company 201 205

20'0" x 20'0" 400

209

112

Wilson Nurseries

The Mulch Center

211

202 204

200

204a

DeVroomen Arlington Emergent College Safety of Garden Power Supply DuPage Products Equipment

McGinty Bros 299

206 20'0" x 20'0" 400

Cardno Premium Native 10'0" x 20'0" 10'0" x 20'0" 200 200 Plant Travertine Nursery 301 305 303 303a

300

Twixwood Nursery

Northern Family Farms

302

208

210

212

214

Cedar Cassidy Ecoturf Path Tire Midwest Nurseries

Gravely, an Ariens Company

J. Frank 20'0" x 20'0" Harrell's Schmidt 400 & Son 307 309 309a

304

Monroe Truck Equipment

Ve Mi

Casey Xylem Equipment Ltd Rocks, Etc 311

306

MidwestGroundcov MidwestTrading

Demo Area

Martin Implement Sales

398

400

Midwest Stihl

402

McCann Industries

The Landscape Contractor July 2016

Russo Power Equipment

404

Education Tent

Tour Pick-Up Tent 1002

Tour Tent

116

118

122

120

St. Rental Aubin Deere Max Nursery

& Co.

Green Glen Nursery

219

217

Techo-Bloc Feece Oil Co.

Home Nursery

Chicago Gas Lines

221

229

225

Vermeer Equipment Challenge Area 216

ermeer idwest

vers/ g

20'0" x 20'0" 400

130

A. Block Marketing

218

220

Hoffie Nursery

Pizzo Group/Pizzo Native Plant Nursery

Ball Horticultural

Garden

Beer

222

The Tree Connection

317

310

224

224a

226

228

Pro Kaknes Kramer United Label Kishwaukee Tree Landscape College Gro & Specialists SATO Supply Solutions

319

NYP Corp.

The Davey Tree Expert Company

Montale Gardens

323

323a

325

Burris Equipment

Atlas Bobcat

406

318

Patten Cat

West Side Tractor Sales

408

20'0" x 20'0" 400

230

Central Sod

Beaver Creek 327 Nursery

Vermeer Yellow Iron Rodeo

329

322

RCOP, Inc.

Alexander Equipment Company

324

410

412

ProLine Division 1004

The Landscape Contractor July 2016

Special Summer Feature

Mosquito Abatement! By Meta L. Levin

As news of the mosquito born Zika virus spread, the staff

at south suburban Orland Park based Hartman Landscape began to consider adding mosquito abatement to its list of services. While the virus is carried only by the Aedes aegypti mosquito, found in tropical, subtropical and some temperate climates and, thus, not a threat in northern Illinois, mosquitos here can be annoying and do carry other illnesses, such as West Nile virus. Moreover, (slap) they can prevent (slap) a landscape contractor’s clients from enjoying the (slap) landscaping so carefully designed and installed (slap, slap).

Finding solutions

Scott Mattingly, Hartman’s head of plant treatment and application and certified arborist, had seen an all-natural mosquito abatement product at a recent vendor show. “It was in line with the things we already were doing,” he says. The more they explored the possibility, the more it seemed like a good thing to offer their clients. Hartman is part of a slowly growing trend among Illinois landscape contractors: offering mosquito abatement as part of their regular services. “A lot more homeowners are asking for the service,” says Tim Breier, owner of National Seed Company, which handles some mosquito abatement products, including the allnatural one that caught Mattingly’s eye. For the landscape contractors, it’s a matter of do they 24

learn to do the work themselves or subcontract it out.

Understanding the tools

While some of the mosquito control products are considered pesticides, requiring licensing and/or certification by the Illinois Department of Agriculture, others, like the one in which Mattingly was interested, do not. In many cases, it’s also a question of getting the word out to their customers. “We have had clients who want mosquito control, but don’t realize that we offered it,” says Mattingly. “As soon as one found out, he signed up.” Many people are looking for a one stop shop. With the increased focus on extending the home into the yard or garden, clients are finding that during certain times of year mosquitos can interfere (slap) with using the patio, outdoor kitchen (slap) and other amenities. So, why not help out to make things more pleasant? As most landscape contractors know, if you want to buy and/or apply restricted use pesticides in Illinois, you need to successfully complete a competency examination and become licensed by the Illinois Department of Agriculture. Mosquito is one of 17 licensure categories the department offers.

The Landscape Contractor July 2016

Know your enemy

In order to adequately control the mosquito population, you need to know what types of the blood sucking insects are common to the area and why, besides the annoyance and itching factor, they need to be managed. In Illinois there are two major types: floodwater or vector. Floodwater mosquitoes lay eggs in low-lying areas that are subject to flooding. About two weeks after heavy rains, they emerge in droves and start their blood sucking ways. In Illinois the inland floodwater mosquito is the most common of these. Under normal conditions it can fly 10 or more miles from where it hatches and is a vicious biter, although they are not considered significant disease carriers in Illinois. They can, however, carry heartworm disease that affects dogs. Vector mosquitos, on the other hand, lay their eggs in stagnant ditches and sewage treatment ponds, as well as in water filled tree holes, old tires, clogged gutters, old tin cans and anything else that will hold water. These eggs usually will hatch within two to three days. They do carry diseases. The Culex, which also can transmit heartworm disease, or house mosquito and the tree-hole mosquito are the most common in Illinois.

As if we did not need any more, in 1985 a load of old tires arrived in the United States carrying the Asian Tiger mosquitoes. It can breed in large numbers in water filled artificial containers. Encephalitis is the most common human illness carried by Illinois mosquitoes. The Culex mosquito carries St. Louis encephalitis and the more infamous West Nile virus. Mostly affecting older adults, it’s nasty, causing inflammation of the brain and, in severe cases, can include severe headaches, high fever and confusion, irritability, tremors, stupor and coma. In the worst of cases survivors suffer permanent physical and mental disabilities or even death. The Culex mosquito primarily is active from dusk to dawn. The tree-hole mosquito, on the other hand, bites during the day, carrying the California (LaCrosse) encephalitis, which infects primarily children, as well as chipmunks, squirrels and other small woodland animals. The late arriving Asian tiger mosquito will transmit dengue fever and possibly is involved with the California encephalitis cycle in Illinois.

Abatement services

Did you know that the maintenance services you already offer can be considered part of a mosquito abatement program? Keeping weeds and tall grass cut short (continued on page 26)

The Landscape Contractor July 2016

Special Summer Feature (continued from page 25) will help. Adult mosquitoes use these kinds of shady places to rest during the hot daylight hours. That’s another reason to hire you for maintenance. How about offering to level the ground around the home so that water can run off and not collect in low spots? Fill those holes or depressions in which water could accumulate during a rain. How about tree rot holes and hollow stumps? Water can collect there and you can help your customers alleviate that. While pesticide mosquito abatement programs are more lucrative, if you also want to be perceived as a resource by your clients, you always can offer them some advice. For instance, suggest that they remove anything that can collect water, like tin cans, old tires or other places mosquitoes might breed.

The Landscape Contractor July 2016

Water features? Stock ornamental water gardens with mosquito eating fish, such as minnows, mosquito fish or goldfish that eat mosquito larvae. Did you install a rain barrel? Make sure that rain barrels, cisterns, septic tanks, fire barrels and trash containers are tightly covered with a lid or 16-mesh screen. Empty plastic wading pools at least once a week. Unused swimming pools should be covered or drained during the mosquito season. Store boats covered or upside down. Empty outside pet water bowls daily. Mosquito abatement is just one more tool in your toolkit that will help your clients enjoy their landscapes.

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ILCA Promoting the Industry

ILCA Strategic Partnership with Chicago Flower and Garden Show by Meta L. Levin

From March 18-26, 2017, when Chicago is

hoping for spring, the annual Chicago Flower & Garden Show will bloom at Navy Pier, featuring a number of ILCA members. “We’ve done it for the last 12 or 13 years,” says Chris Hanson, construction team leader for Aquascape, which designs and installs water features, as well as manufacturing and distributing pond supplies. Now the Chicago Flower & Garden Show is working with ILCA to look at ways to collaborate. “So many of our exhibitors are ILCA members,” says Tony Abruscato, whose company, Flower Show Productions, Inc., owns the show. “It provides a consumer outreach for ILCA.” In the recent past a display has featured winners of the ILCA design awards and ILCA provided tours of the garden exhibits. Abruscato, who bought the Flower & Garden Show in 2007, already was familiar with ILCA and thought that it was a natural partnership. He worked on ways to make people aware of the advantages of using members when hiring a contractor. “It all

comes down to educating the consumer,” he says. To that end Abruscato is working to make it easier for landscape contractors to participate, as well as to advertise the fact that many do get work. Last year when Diaz Group LLC, one of the smaller landscape contractors, approached Flower Show Productions about participating, it was too late, past the deadline. This was a part of Diaz Group’s push toward getting larger accounts, says Oscar Garcia, who heads business development for the group. Rather than send Diaz Group away disappointed, Abruscato connected them to a project at the Brookfield Zoo. “We like to see collaboration,” says Abruscato. Hitchcock Design Group had done the design work, Belgard provided the stonework and so on. Diaz not only worked on the project, but Brookfield Zoo contacted Garcia this year about another one. To make participation even easier for landscape contractors, the show provides and pays for teamster labor for loading (continued on page 30)

The Landscape Contractor July 2016

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ILCA Promoting the Industry

(continued from page 28) and unloading large items, such as pallets of materials, from trucks. It also pays for electrical and water drops, not to mention some other union labor through a special negotiated agreement with the unions. “For the most part the landscape contractors are doing their own work,” Abruscato says. There are no drayage fees.

Since the show can take days to set up, run for nine days, then take days to tear down (an estimated total of 21 days in all), this makes it easier and more financially feasible for landscape contractors to participate. Participants cite a number of reasons to go to all of the trouble and expense of designing and building a garden/exhibit, but the bottom line is new business. “Many of them get work,” he says. “Last year there was one who got two jobs on 30

the first day. They ran the credit card while they were at the show.” While that may be the goal, it isn’t the norm. Still, Hanson cites brand recognition and getting new business as a result as one of the top reasons Aquascape comes back year after year. “You can’t expect it to happen the first year,” he says. “You have to build it through consistency. We’ve gained a following; people come to the show and look for Aquascape.” Abruscato wants to reach out to consumers of all stripes, from residential to commercial, in a variety of ways. “The ultimate goal is to provide inspiration and education for building the industry as a whole,” he says. Each year the show has a theme. In 2016 it focused on small spaces and urban design. For 2017, it will be Chicago’s Blooming. Despite the emphasis on Chicago in the title and the theme, Abruscato wants to develop it as a Midwest draw. In fact, he knows that it annually draws visitors from Ohio, Indiana, Wisconsin and Michigan, not to mention downstate locations like Peoria, Springfield and Rockford. An estimated sixty percent of the 40,000 plus attendees come from Chicago’s suburbs. There The Landscape Contractor July 2016

are expected to be between 24 and 30 contractors. The show has become more than just garden exhibits. Often the materials are donated to various not-for-profit organizations and others, thus repurposed and reused rather than thrown away. In addition, there are daily seminars, do it yourself workshops and a marketplace. Major sponsor, Mariano’s, as well as Eli’s Cheesecake Company, Friendship

Restaurant and others will provide some chefs to share their secrets for cooking demonstrations. There’s even an area for children’s activities. And show goers will even be introduced to a well-kept Chicago secret: the Chicago Public Schools’ High School for (continued on page 32)

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The Landscape Contractor July 2016

(continued from page 30) Agricultural Sciences. Each year for at least the last nine, students from the southwest side school have worked alongside the professionals to build their own garden exhibit. “It’s one of the most important projects that we do,” says Principal Bill Hook. Many of the landscape contractors aren’t even aware that these are students, says Hook. When they do find out, they often have lunch with the kids, giving them advice and sharing knowledge about the industry. Many of the various industry proficiencies taught at the school are covered. In addition to designing and installing the exhibit, food science students develop recipes using garden fresh produce, agricultural finance students sell products produced at the school, and the agriculture education students even do some seminars. Over the years a number of students have picked up internships and summer jobs through their work at the show. Although the show is geared toward consumers, “you never know who is walking through the show,” says Abruscato. That includes commercial property managers, condo association managers and business owners. Technically the show dates back to 1847 and it has become an annual event for some families. Recently an auditor working in the office told Abruscato that she had fond memories of attending the Chicago Flower & Garden Show with her parents when she was little. A little something to warm Arbruscato’s heart.

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Enfoque: Sección en Español —

El verano ha llegado y el aprend …también la diversión y la camaradería cuando los miembros de ILCA se ponerse al día sobre los avances en la industria y relajarse y disfrutar del Por Barbara Dutton

variedad de comidas que incluyen hamburguesas de carne “Angus” y hot-dogs de carne “Angus”. Mezclar los negocios con el placer parece definir la tónica establecida para el evento. “El Día de Campo es muy diferente a otros eventos que realizamos”, afirma Scott Grams, Director Ejecutivo de ILCA, quien explica que el enfoque adoptado para planificar el día de campo este año, se remonta a celebraciones anteriores de este popular evento –antes de que las presiones económicas debidas a la recesión redujeran las actividades del día– para “hacerlo más una festividad de la industria”, reintroduciendo actividades que habían sido suspendidas. Además de las diversiones y la armonía que esperan a los asistentes el Día de Campo de Verano, Grams enfatiza las ventajas que ofrece la ubicación del evento. “La oportunidad de hablar con los proveedores y disfrutar de los recorridos –en un

A medida que se

acerca la culminación del verano, los miembros de ILCA pueden esperar con entusiasmo reunirse durante un día de educación con oportunidades para admirar el paisaje, visitar a proveedores y, quizá, saborear una cerveza fría con los colegas durante el Día de Campo de Verano que se celebrará el 4 de agosto de 2016. Programado de 8:30 a.m. a 3:00 p.m., El Día de Campo de Verano 2016 se llevará a cabo en Midwest Groundcovers/ Midwest Trading en Virgil, Ill. Por una cuota de inscripción de $15, los miembros no solo podrán disfrutar de presentaciones informativas y un recorrido por las instalaciones de los anfitriones, sino también tendrán la oportunidad de hablar individualmente con los proveedores de la industria y seleccionar para un delicioso almuerzo entre una tentadora

The Landscape Contractor July 2016

ndizaje es fácil reúnan para hacer una pausa a mitad de la temporada y día junto con los asociados de la industria. entorno manejable– es difícil de superar”. Traiga sus preguntas Los profesionales del paisajismo podrán aprovechar las diferentes oportunidades de aprendizaje disponibles durante el Día de Campo de Verano 2016. Un componente clave del programa educativo es un panel organizado por Joe Hobson, Presidente y Director de Operaciones de Midwest Trading Horticultural Supplies, Maple Park, Ill., que será la sede de los eventos del día. Titulada, “Consejos para a horrar costos en prácticas comunes de paisajismo”, la sesión, moderada por Hobson, explorará temas tales como el uso de productos en bolsa en lugar de a granel. “Usualmente, las personas utilizan siempre la configuración a granel para todos los trabajos, pero en realidad esa no es la mejor opción para todas las aplicaciones”, asegura Hobson, discutiendo este ejemplo temático que demuestra la importancia del tema en el que se centrará la sesión. La discusión del panel incluirá interacción con el público, por lo que Hobson aconseja a los asistentes al evento, “traer

las preguntas que puedan tener”. De igual forma, recomienda a los visitantes que deseen conocer más acerca de las prácticas de paisajismo sostenible asistir a la otra sesión educativa clave que será presentada ese día, “Prácticas de paisajismo sostenible: ¡Resuelven problemas, resultan económicas con respecto a los costos y crean también hábitat para los polinizadores!” presentada por Jim Kleinwachter de la Fundación de Conservación.

Además de la presentación de un programa educativo formal, los asistentes tendrán la oportunidad de hablar con los proveedores para conocer las ofertas de productos y servicios diseñadas para ayudar a los contratistas de paisajismo a operar con más eficiencia y ampliar sus capacidades. Se establecerán puestos de proveedores para que los visitantes puedan detenerse y hablar con ellos – una actividad que será complementada por una competición para encontrar gnomos de jardín estratégicamente ocultos por toda el área de despliegue de los expositores. Según Christa Orum-Keller, Vicepresidente y propietaria de Midwest Groundcovers, St. Charles, Ill., y Presidente de la Junta Directiva de Midwest Trading, empresas que comprenden la familia de compañías que organizan el Día de Campo 2016, un alto porcentaje de los negocios de las compañías proviene de contratistas de paisajismo, un motivo persuasivo para involucrarse en la organización del evento. “Lo estamos

The Landscape Contractor July 2016

Enfoque: Sección en Español — haciendo”, explica, “para apoyar a ILCA – nuestra asociación de la industria del paisajismo.” Una belleza que paraliza Los planes y las preparaciones del evento multifacético han sido dirigidos por el Comité del Día Campo de Verano de la asociación. El enfoque del organismo para organizar el evento ha impresionado a Orum-Keller. “El Comité del Día de Campo de ILCA es un grupo de personas maravillosas y con mucha experiencia”. Representa al Comité, Ed Roloff, Presidente de la Junta Directiva del Día de Campo de Verano 2016 y gerente de planta de la instalación de Old Castle Lawn & Garden Midwest en Marseilles, Ill., quien percibe el evento como “una gran oportunidad para que las personas salgan y vean lo que puede haber de nuevo en la industria y hablar con otras personas sobre el negocio en general. “El lugar donde se desarrollará el evento será un punto importante de atracción”, continúa diciendo. “Las Compañías Midwest siempre han realizado un estupendo trabajo organizando ferias y tienen varias características nuevas en la instalación, que estamos seguros los asistentes querrán ver”. Esperando con entusiasmo mostrar la configuración de su empresa en Virgil, Orum-Keller anticipa un día muy divertido y entretenido. “Deseamos mostrar nuestro atractivo entorno y permitir a las personas admirar

nuestro moderno vivero y planta mezcladora –el corazón de nuestra operación de producción para ambas compañías”, afirma Orum-Keller sobre sus aspiraciones para el evento, que ha estado en las etapas de planificación por unos dos años y es un esfuerzo en el cual han estado involucrados unos 15 empleados de la compañía. Jill Bondi, gerente de mercadotecnia de la compañía que ha supervisado los arreglos para Midwest, afirma que, si bien es difícil calcular la cantidad de tiempo invertida en el esfuerzo, “Ha habido muchas personas involucradas en diferentes capacidad durante todos los meses de preparación. Comenzamos reuniéndonos y planificando desde septiembre pasado, poco después de concluido el Día de Campo 2015, para discutir cómo ser

The Landscape Contractor July 2016

unos anfitriones excepcionales y crear un evento acogedor y divertido”. El negocio mostrará su nueva instalación de 38 acres para cultivar arbustos, la cual, explica Orum-Keller, ampliará significativamente la producción de la compañía y de la cual se siente muy orgullosa. “Definitivamente queremos que nuestros principales clientes vean nuestras hermosas instalaciones y las capacidades de producción conexas”, explica. “Nuestro local en Virgil se encuentra en una zona agrícola importante”, explica Hobson. “Es un entorno hermoso y estético, con un vivero de una belleza que paraliza”. Un estupendo activo Nuevo este año en el Día de Campo de Verano es un evento que reemplaza la competición de lanzamiento de bolsas

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Enfoque: Sección en Español — (bag-tossing) que se realizó en Días de Campo de Verano anteriores y permitirá a los profesionales del paisajismo demostrar su habilidades para operar varias herramientas de la industria: “¡Tendremos un rodeo de operadores!”, anuncia Roloff. Patrocinado por Vermeer Midwest, un distribuidor de equipos y proveedor de servicios con un establecimiento en Aurora, Ill., “El Rodeo de Hierro Amarillo del Día de Campo de Verano 2016” presentará tres competiciones, cada una concentrada en un tipo de equipo aplicable a la industria del paisajismo: un mini-cargador de dirección articulada, una barredora de césped y una mini-excavadora. Los operadores deberán realizar una serie de operaciones en un campo, el desempeño será cronometrado y se premiará a los que completen la tarea en menos tiempo. Stu Senska, gerente de ventas de Vermeer Midwest manifiesta su entusiasmo por esta nueva adición, que él explica fue “creación de la Junta Directiva” de ILCA. “¡Nos entusiasma mucho!” exclama. “Pienso que será un valioso activo del evento”, comenta Roloff, “y muy divertido”. Después de someter a prueba los equipos, anotar ideas sobre gestión de negocios y ver los despliegues de vegetación, los asistentes podrán disfrutar de una refrescante libación fría servida en la tienda de cervezas de este año. Según Jim Matusik, presidente y propietario de la compañía de distribución de plantas de vivero al por mayor, The Tree Connection, Rochester, Mich., que está patrocinando la atracción, la tienda de cervezas ofrece a los asistentes “una situación y área relajantes”, la cual, “reunirá a varias personas de la industria, dándoles la oportunidad de hacer una pausa, disfrutar de una cerveza, hablar sobre 38

la temporada y anticipar el otoño”. Lo más importante Al organizar sus planes para el verano, sugiere Grams, los miembros de ILCA deben asegurarse de que su calendario les permita tanto a ellos como a los miembros clave de su personal, participar en el Día de Campo de Verano 2016. “Tómense un día para interactuar con los proveedores, ver nuevos equipos”, aconseja. “Es una feria tan vibrante y llamativa –aunque algunas veces bulliciosa”. Grams indica que los asistentes pueden experimentar el evento en secuencias y al grado que se ajuste a sus calendarios e intereses. “De cada individuo dependerá cómo ordenar el día”, afirma con la esperanza de que los participantes aprovechen al máximo su visita y se empapen de la atmósfera. “Deseo que las personas salgan impresionadas con las instalaciones”.

The Landscape Contractor July 2016

Reunirse informalmente con colegas que también son amigos es una oportunidad reconocida por Matusik, quien observa que las funciones de ILCA sirven para crear “una familia de personas de la industria”. El Día de Campo de Verano, por ejemplo, “es un paso más allá de ‘así se realiza el negocio’”, comenta. “Es una oportunidad para compartir anécdotas familiares en lugar de únicamente anécdotas comerciales. Usted podrá conversar 10 minutos sobre negocios y 20 minutos sobre la vida”. “El Día de Campo de Verano es una maravillosa oportunidad para reunirse y conocer a otras personas, en un entorno relajado”, comenta Roloff, quien da crédito a su comité por hacer el trabajo necesario para presentar otro evento exitoso. “Felicitamos a todos los miembros del comité que se esforzaron por hacerlo realidad”, dice. “Siempre hemos tenido ferias estupendas y espero que este año no sea diferente”. Un objetivo clave del día, citado por Hobson, es que las “personas salgan del evento y digan, ‘¡Increíble, estuvo fabuloso!’” Compartiendo ideas sobre ofrecer la oportunidad de ver las instalaciones de los anfitriones y disfrutar de un día de aprendizaje, relajamiento y socialización, declara: “Nos enorgullecemos y al mismo tiempo, nos sentimos honrados de ofrecer todo esto. Deseamos que las personas tengan un día fabuloso, aprendan e interactúen con sus amistades”, Porque, concluye Hobson, “Esto no es sobre las Compañías Midwest, sino sobre la industria del paisajismo –y esto es lo más importante”.

Plans are already underway for the 2017 edition of ILCA’s Green Industry Guide

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debbie.landscapecontractor@yahoo.com The Landscape Contractor July 2016

Summer Business Tune Up

Using Aristotle in the Boardroom Using Philosophical Arguments to Succeed in Meetings By Joe Curcillo

As the sales team takes their seats in the board-

room, CEO, A.C. Tosser, rises from his seat and begins to address the staff. He introduces the new product line and explains that it will be marketed differently, and will be implemented with a new commission structure. The team grumbled at the change, but Tosser explained and discussed how the next level of sales will positively affect the commissions and bonuses for the people in the room. He began to direct statements to his staff. “Mary, you could finally get that new pool you have talked about, and Fred, you will finally be able to start saving for Little Fred’s college tuition.” He continued, “If sales continue to rise, we will be implementing a program to support the local dog rescue. Ed and Anna, will I be able to get your help on that?” “Oh, and, by the way,” he added, “We are confidentially trying to arrange to hold this year’s Holiday Party in Las Vegas. It will depend on our mid-year totals, but I just thought you’d like to know.” As he continues, the tone is not only a discussion, but the staff begins to become excited and the room fills with energy! A.C. Tosser understands how to motivate his staff. As a student of Greek philosophy, he knows that Aristotle’s rhetoric is as relevant today as it was twenty-five hundred years ago. The theory advanced by Aristotle includes three categories of focus when presenting a convincing argument. They are Ethos, Logos, and Pathos.

• • •

Ethos is the essence of your character. It is your charismatic appeal. Logos is the intellectual appeal. It is the logical factors or the truths that make up the foundation and structure of your presentation. Pathos is the emotional appeal. It is that which appeals to the wants and desires of the audience; what it is they want to believe and what makes them happy.

Effective persuasion is accomplished when the speaker is able to understand the importance and depth of his own character, reason logically, and understand the emotions that motivate and inspire the listener.

Character Appeal

Let us begin with Ethos—your character. You must have character to successfully lead and convince others to follow. There are no exceptions. It is far easier to believe the words of a good person than a bad person. Character is in many instances the most effective means of persuasion that you possess. Tosser has built credibility by working with his team, getting to know them and keeping them on track. If you do not remain consistent, your personality becomes a distraction that disrupts the flow and confuses the ultimate message. If every time your team gets comfortable with you, you change your personality, demeanor or overall attitude, they will have to reconsider their position as to whether they like you or not. The mental process will then be stuck in a rut, and they will be hard pressed to give thought to your “message.” (continued on page 42)

The Landscape Contractor July 2016

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Share how you deal with rejection and the anguish of a week without a sale Speak their language; be a real person. Talk to them, not down to them Remind them of the team accomplishments Remind them of your experiences as you learned and grew in the business Know the products and benefits the company offers Be there to assist with better ways of relating the needs to the customers

While, at its core, the ability to trust is an emotional decision, people want to trust. If you do not have a character that people can embrace, your goal of being accepted will fail despite all the proof you can gather, and all the emotion you can create.

Intellectual Appeal

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Logos is the ability to present information in a coherent fashion to lead everyone to the same factual conclusion. If you give people enough acceptable and understandable information, the logical choice will be easier for them to make. Accordingly, you give them the information they need to control their own decision-making process. People will resist a position that is forced upon them. Education and learning are phenomenal co-pilots that allow you to guide people on the path you design; they are precursors to the logical choice. Skepticism, on the other hand, becomes a major defense mechanism that fights against the possibility of harm, loss or deceit. If people come to their own conclusions based on your presentations, they can freely and comfortably make an educated choice. When fear is eliminated, people are more likely to follow.

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Last, and never to be overlooked, is Pathos—the emotional state of the listener. People are much more responsive when they are happy than when they are miserable. Work on their hearts and minds in a positive and healthy way to be the person they look to for direction. Most people are vulnerable when they feel that their goals are not in-sync with the company goals, and when those weaknesses are lessened, people are more likely to follow. Take the time to find the weaknesses in those you lead. Find the positive triggers that will make them emotionally ready to hear and believe that you know best. When that is done well, everyone wins! The goal of a leader is to lead, not direct and order people to act. The more people want to follow you, the more success you will achieve. So, how do you get people to follow you? Be a

The Landscape Contractor July 2016

solution to their problems. Consider spending time listening to and observing those you lead. As you mingle, chat and observe, pay attention to the needs of the team, and lead discussions as you search for the group’s mindset. Look for common truths that shape their beliefs and thoughts. Frequently question their dreams, and their beliefs to find a common thread. Then, speak with a focus on herding the hearts and minds of the team to bring them together as a cohesive unit. Find out what makes your team tick. Find new ways to learn exactly what carrots to dangle in front of their eyes.

Strike a Balance

A well-structured presentation—like a well-structured argument— must contain balanced proportions of character appeal, intellectual appeal and emotional appeal. The measurements change from person-toperson and from task-to-task. For some, success is a matter of patience and practice. For others, it will flow as if it is their birthright. For the majority of people, the art of convincing others requires a balance of their natural skills and learned techniques. The challenge will always be finding the balance that is right for you. When you walk into a meeting, have your facts, charts and statistics ready, but pay attention to the room and your audience. Put your commitment to the team first. Be ready to go with the flow. Allow them to come to you and be inspired to follow. ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Joe Curcillo, The Mindshark, is a speaker, entertainer, lawyer and communications expert. As an Adjunct Professor at Widener University School of Law, Mr. Curcillo developed a hands-on course, based on the use of storytelling as a persuasive weapon. He has been a professional entertainer helping corporations and associations improve their communication techniques since 1979. For more information on bringing Joe Curcillo in for your next event, please visit www.TheMindShark.com.

The Landscape Contractor July 2016

Summer Business Tune Up

Three Crucial Questions for Unconscious Bias in the Wor By Natalie Holder

Diversity and inclusion have

definitely grown up over the past 20 years. Studies have shown that diversity management tops the list of priorities that businesses will have in the coming years. And, within the last 10 years, there has been an explosion of seniorlevel diversity officer roles in corporations, higher education, and law firms. With all of these resources being put toward increasing diversity, why have most organizations not achieved the change they seek? You might not have an answer because despite much societal advancement, there are reminders that people are treated unfairly because of their faith, how they look or how they sound. Our silence might also be acknowledging that we do not know how to achieve the diversity we seek. In the workplace, part of the issue is not knowing the difference between diversity and inclusion. Think of the high school lunch table as a metaphor for experiencing the distinction between the two. Do you remember what your high school cafeteria looked like, sounded like, and what it smelled like? You probably had a group of friends that you ate lunch with every day. Imagine that one day, you asked a different group if you could sit with them and they enthusiastically made room for you. However, after a few minutes at this new table, 44

you noticed that you were not a part of the conversation. People were making plans for the weekend without asking if you would like to join them. When you tried to tell a joke, everyone stared at you dismissively. People talked over you and cut you off mid-sentence. While you were invited to sit at the table, you were not invited to engage at the table. Many organizations do a great job of recruiting for the diversity they seek, but fail to create inclusive environments. Engagement is a measurement of a person’s inclusion in an organization and drives the overall quality of the human capital brought to the table. Maslow’s hierarchy of needs states that everyone has needs that must be met before they can reach a level of self-actualization. In the workplace, an employee’s safety and psychological needs are most likely taken care of because their jobs provide the financial resources to clothe and feed themselves. However, the difficulty in most workplaces starts with the social needs. When you have friends and positive relationships at work, it creates a sense of belonging. Next is your esteem needs. Everyone has a a need to have their work recognized by senior leadership. If employees never hear that they are doing a good job, they may doubt their work and themselves. Lastly, if all your other needs are met, you may reach the level of self-actualThe Landscape Contractor July 2016

ization at work. Self-actualization is the point where you take initiative and solve the critical problems in your organization. When your social and esteem needs are met, you have the space, room and security to think about new and different ways to contribute to your company’s business goals. If one of these rungs on the ladder to engagement are missing, however, it could financially impact the organization. For instance, employee turnover is one consequence of not having engagement. If your organization had 75,000 employees, and 50% were women and non-white but saw a 3.6% attrition rate with this population, it would cost the organization $2.2 mil if it costs $10K to replace an employee. So how and why does exclusion still take place when there are direct benefits to inclusion? Often, without even realizing it, people engage in micro-inequities that are driven by their unconscious biases. Micro-inequities are the subtle gestures, comments, and interactions that make you feel included or excluded by another. It’s feeling ignored when you’re talking to someone and they glance at their watch when you make an important point. It’s being left off of an email chain when you should have been included. Think of micro-inequities as the waves that threaten to erode your beautiful beach house that sits on wooden stilts. Over time, the waves deteriorate the wooden stilts, often in ways that are

Uncovering kplace unseen by the eye. While there are a number of ways to uncover exclusion and unconscious bias in an organization—and eventually eradicate it—the process may start with three questions: •

• •

Is there a team member who would view my feedback as negative if I give them any feedback at all? Who on the team do I dislike working with? Which person on the team makes me say, “I am having such a difficult time getting to know this person?”

Most likely the person or people who surface in your responses are feeling excluded from your work groups. In a training session for a large government agency, there was a senior leader who admitted that while he was committed to diversity as a cause, he was not putting his actions into practice with certain individuals on his team. He courageously admitted that he created a self-fulfilling prophecy where his favorite employees were excelling and the others, whom he did not connect with and had ignored, were struggling. Invitations to his afternoon coffee excursions to Starbucks were only extended to the people on his team that he connected to and liked.

Even those with the best intentions have difficulty tying their words to their actions. Creating an inclusive culture takes shaking our unconscious minds awake and questioning our actions.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Natalie Holder is an employment lawyer, speaker, corporate trainer and author of Exclusion: Strategies for Increasing Diversity in Recruitment, Retention, and Promotion. As the cofounder of the New York State Bar Association’s Labor & Employment’s Diversity Fellowship she developed strategies to increase diversity and retention for various bar associations. In 2013, NYU honored her with the Martin Luther King, Jr. Humanitarian Award. For more information on Natalie Holder please visit www. QuestDiversity.com. (continued on page 36)

The Landscape Contractor July 2016

Summer Business Tune Up

Does Your Company Need a Service Overhaul? Eight “Red Flags” That Demand Action by Dottie Diehart

“Signs that you need to pay more attention

to the customer experience can be very subtle,” warns Joseph Michelli, best-selling author of Driven to Delight: Delivering World-Class Customer Experience the Mercedes-Benz Way (McGraw-Hill; December 2015. “In fact, some signs might not initially seem to relate to 'service' at all. The good news is, knowing and paying attention to these red flags can help you correct your course while there's still time to recapture your customers’ loyalty.” Michelli — who worked with Mercedes-Benz USA to positively and dramatically transform its customer experience and who has written books on service giants like Zappos and Starbucks—knows just how hard it is for most organizations to keep customers happy for the long haul. Here, he shares eight service-related red flags that require your immediate attention.

Red Flag #1: You're not asking your custom-

ers how they feel. Directly asking customers what their level of satisfaction is, and why they feel that way, is a simple but crucial component of providing outstanding service. (No, making assumptions about how customers “seem to feel” based on their attitudes, foot traffic, web traffic, or even sales metrics isn't good enough.) “Even if you're doing well profitably right now, you lack indicators to tell you if you'll be dead in the water tomorrow,” comments Michelli. “It's possible that you're flatlining and you don't even know it yet. Consistently harvesting customers' opinions is the only way to keep your finger on the pulse of their service experience.”

Red Flag #2: You aren't taking a “customer's-

eye view” of the service experience. Sure, you might be investing plenty of time, money, and energy in making customer service improvements. But if you haven't taken the time to map and design the service experience from the customer's

perspective, you'll inevitably do a lot of work that's irrelevant. “It's important to take a holistic view of the customer's journey at all touchpoints, 'cradle to grave,' even beyond the transaction,” Michelli confirms. “If you don't, sooner or later, all of your incremental efforts at positive change are going to miss the mark.”

Red Flag #3: Your social media strategy is

halfhearted (at best) or (worse) nonexistent. No matter how popular or established your company is, no matter how loyal you think your customers are, you need to establish a social media strategy. “The young market doesn't look up companies in the yellow pages,” says Michelli. “Often, they don't even use email when they need help or want to ask a question. They turn to Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. But this isn't just about millennial customers—even baby boomers are deeply interactive online! If you don't make it easy for customers of all ages to contact and engage with you in the way they prefer, you're treading on thin ice. “Oh, and this may go without saying, but be sure you also have a working, updated, intuitive website,” he adds. “Preferably one with a blog that regularly pushes out helpful information.”

Red Flag #4: You're not listening to what

people are saying about you online. Maintaining an active, updated social media presence is only half the online equation. “Sooner or later, the voices online are going to turn the market away from you,” Michelli explains. “If you're not monitoring what people are saying about your company, your competitors, and your industry in general, it's just a matter of time before you find yourself wondering what went wrong. But be aware: Managing the online chatter doesn't mean trying to argue with critics; it means really trying to fix problems and turn those critics into advocates.” (continued on page 48)

The Landscape Contractor July 2016

Summer Business Tune Up (continued from page 46)

Red Flag #5: You aren't transforming prospects

into buyers. If you're spending plenty of money on marketing to drive traffic but can't get people to walk in the door, it's not them—it's you. Your efforts to serve and engage (potential) customers aren't working, and it's high time for an overhaul. “The same thing is true for conversion,” Michelli notes. “Say people are walking in but you are not earning sales in ways that are in keeping with growth. While you may have lovely products and a lovely visual, you've not figured out how to help people make the connection to becoming buyers—and that too is a service issue.”

Red Flag #6: You take a laissez-faire

approach to referrals. Tracking referral business and rewarding referrals is an important part of providing outstanding post-transaction service. “You've got to leverage your existing zealots to generate business and to make sure they continue to choose you instead of your competitors,” says Michelli.

“Great service brands teach their staff how to help their customers effectively refer them to other like-minded consumers.”

Red Flag #7: You rely too heavily on your Net

Promoter Score. A Net Promoter Score (NPS) is great for measuring the strength of your customer relationships right now—but it doesn't give you the whole picture. A low NPS doesn't tell you what to fix. A high NPS doesn't reveal where you have an opportunity to forge an even better connection with customers by satisfying them at even more key moments. “Relying too heavily on your NPS is like hoping to lose weight just by looking at the scale,” Michelli explains. “If you don't track other metrics like what you're eating and how much energy you're using, you won't know how to affect the scale two weeks later. So be sure you're also capturing other real-time analytics and leading indicators—like high-value touchpoints, satisfaction ratings, and so forth—that will help you understand where breakdowns are happening and how you can intervene.”

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The Landscape Contractor July 2016

Red Flag #8: Your

employee turnover exceeds industry standards. Yes, some employee turnover is healthy. A certain percentage of your population has to move to keep your organization dynamic. And if it's the “right” people who leave (i.e., low performers), all the better. But if your turnover is approaching or exceeds industry norms, you have cause for concern. “Large pockets of turnover are often reflective of an unhealthy culture—and unhappy, disengaged employees do not provide outstanding service,” Michelli states. “Plus, during tumultuous turnover, your customers are interacting with a new brand every day. They're not getting the benefit of seasoned service professionals (continued on page 50)

The Landscape Contractor July 2016

(continued from page 49) who have a great deal of corporate knowledge and product knowledge, as well as the type of enthusiasm that becomes infectious in the life of the customer.” Michelli adds that there's one more, notquite-as-objective litmus test for gauging your customer's satisfaction, engagement, and loyalty: Do they seem willing to spontaneously sing your praises? If not, their opinion of

you is probably “meh”...and “meh” can be deadly. “Can you imagine a customer putting a bumper sticker on their car telling others how much they love your company?” he asks. “If not, that's a red flag, because these days, Facebook 'likes' are the new bumper stickers. If you can't see your customers being excited enough to publicly say, Yes, this is a brand I'm proud to be associated with, you are missing opportunities to secure satisfaction and emotional engagement.” About the Author: Joseph A. Michelli, PhD, CSP, is an internationally sought-after speaker, organizational consultant, and New York Times number-one best-selling author. He is a globally recognized thought leader in customer experience design. For more information, please visit www. josephmichelli.com.

The Landscape Contractor July 2016

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Committee Chair Profile

Latino Relations Chair — Erika Walters by Meta Levin

Erika Walters’

path to chairing the ILCA Latino Relations Committee actually began about eight years ago when she met Joe Zepeda, the then chair, who used to work across the street from where Walters worked at a competing business. They met at MidAm. Zepeda invited Walters to a meeting and she began attending as often as she could and this year she took over as Chair of the Committee. All the while she had support from The Mulch Center, where she is the sales manager. Her boss, Jim Seckelmann, encourages her. “I couldn’t ask for a better boss.” He has sent her to such ILCA shows as iLandscape and Summer Field Day where she was able to make contacts and take advantage of educational opportunities. The Mulch Center also has given Walters a career. “Before I started with The Mulch Center, I didn’t know anything about the green industry,” she says. Since she was hired in March 25, 2005, she has worked her way up from working outside in the yard, loading trucks and packing semis to her current jobs in sales and customer service. Now she works in the office, is in charge of the semis and often is the one who customers talk with when they call. Along the way she fell in love. She met her husband, Kevin, a mechanic in the shop, at work. For six years they courted, often eating lunch together and now they are married. He served as her teacher, too, she says. As she has learned more and more about the industry, she wanted to tell others what she has discovered about the green industry. When she was asked to chair the Latino Relations Committee,

she thought, “Why not share what I’ve learned?” Born and raised in Mexico, the third child in a family of four – and the only girl – Walters is raising three girls, ages 19, 15 and two-and-a-half years old. Her mother lives with her and helps out with the children. Her husband gets along with her mother, even though there is a language limitation. Her mother speaks little English and he speaks little Spanish. In her time off she loves music and she and her husband like to watch movies. Walters loves to cook and try new recipes, especially grilling. When she first was asked to chair the committee, she was a little hesitant, but the committee members told her that they would back her up. “It’s teamwork,” she says. “We need to have participation from everyone.” As the new committee chair, Walters hopes to learn more and continue to pass that knowledge along to others.

The Landscape Contractor July 2016

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is the Midwest’s premier monthly magazine for the landscape, nursery and green industry. •

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New Members CONTRACTOR MEMBERS

Lopez Landscaping Fidel 7112 Maple Street Marengo, IL 60152 Phone: 815-568-7636 Fax: 815-568-7636 lopezlanduno1@att.net flopezlandscaping.com Lopez Landscaping is a small landscaping company in business over 20 years. Located in Marengo, IL. Lopez Landscaping does commercial and residential landscaping services. We do lawn and complete grounds maintenance. We also install new lawns and landscape plans. In Winter time we offer snow plowing and salting services. AB Sanchez, Inc. Bobby Sanchez 2814 E Hintz Rd Arlington Heights, IL 60004 Phone: 847-392-5767 Fax: 847-392-6552 bobby@absanchezlandscapes.com www.absanchezlandscapes.com

SUPPLIER MEMBERS Capital Stoneworks Jim Larson 2048 Foster Ave Wheeling, IL 60090 Phone: 847-873-0298 Fax: 847-749-0357 jim@capitalstoneworks.com www.capitalstoneworks.com Capital Stoneworks is a supplier, quarrier, and fabricator of natural stone. We have multiple locations in the Great Lakes region, experienced staff and skilled craftsmen to help with any natural stone project. ProGro Solutions Brian Hissem 1225 Lunt Ave Elk Grove Village, IL Phone: 815-414-8711 Fax: 815-539-8210 brian@progro-solutions.com progro-solutions.com

2016-2017 ILCA Dues Renewal Save the stamp, renew online! If you missed the June 30th deadline, don’t wait a minute more, go to ilca.net and get it done today! To renew online, go to: www.ilca.net/member-login and enter the email address tied to your ILCA membership and password. If you haven’t logged into the new site yet, click “Need a password” and enter the email address tied to your ILCA membership. Then click “Find My Account” and your password will be emailed to you. If you don’t know the email address that is tied to your ILCA membership, please call the office at 630-472-2851 or email Marissa Sikirdji at msikirdji@ilca.net.

Did you know? You can set up automatic recurring billing online.

Don’t worry about renewing your annual membership, put a credit card on file and your dues will be deducted automatically on June 30th every year! You’ll never miss the deadline again! 54

The Landscape Contractor July 2016

LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE OR DESIGN FIRM MEMBERS LandServe LLC John Mariani PO Box 29 Lyons, WI 53148 Phone: 262-661-3606 johnlmariani@gmail.com INDIVIDUAL MEMBERS GardenOpus Robert F. Gabella PO Box 6059 Villa Park, IL 60181 Phone: 630-484-4730 bobgabella@gardenopus.com www.GardenOpus.com Horticulture, Business and Leadership degrees, plus deep experience in a wide range of Horticultural industry niches allow the opportunity to provide an array of business services to a variety of commercial clients across the green industries - from Landscape Services firms to Growers and Retailers. As a Garden Writer, I address the needs of both business-to-business and home gardening audiences. As a Hybridist, Photographer and award winning Horticulturist - I have the resources to add excitement and value to presentations for events, organizations, clubs and community groups.

Member Profile Express Capital Solutions, Inc. 20546 N. Milwaukee Avenue Deerfield, IL 60015 (847) 527-6450 www.expresscapitalsolutions.com by Meta Levin

Express Capital Solutions,

Inc. has its roots in Chicago and the Great Depression. It’s parent, Checkexpress, was born of need. Last year it birthed Express Capital Solutions as a way of expanding their products and services. Back in the early 1930s, during the Great Depression, Irwin Marcus owned a pharmacy in Chicago’s Albany Park neighborhood. Although all of the area banks had closed, there still were people who had jobs and they would ask Marcus to cash their paychecks, which he did for a small fee. At the end of the day, he would take them to one of three remaining open banks. The men began asking him to take their checks to the People’s Gas & Coke company and pay their bills. It saved them time. So, Marcus deposited their money in his personal account, then wrote a check and paid their bills. That was the origin of Checkexpress, a check cashing service. As the Depression wound down and World War II started, Marcus opened other locations. By 1946 Illinois had passed legislation, known as the Currency Exchange Act, to regulate the business. In fact, Checkexpress had Illinois license number two until they moved their offices across the street and, with the new address, had to give up the low number. Gradually Marcus brought on other services, including paying utility bills and issuing money orders, but continued to cash checks. The company began to realize that there were small businesses that could use their services. Thus, the origin of 56

Express Capital Solutions, which is designed to help small businesses, such as small landscape contractors get access to their money immediately, says Abby Hans, who, with his wife, Sharyl, is the third generation of the family running the company. Sharyl Hans is the vice president of operations for Checkexpress, while her husband and their son, Michael, the fourth generation in the business, operate Express Capital Solutions. Now with nine locations across the Chicago Metropolitan area, Express Capital Solutions has turned to cultivating the small contractor business with a menu of services. “Owners of companies need to cash checks,” says Hans. “They can use Express Capital as an adjunct to their bank.” He sees an increasing number of small businesses using the company’s services. “Numerous small landscape companies are in need of remedies,” he says. “This makes the owners more solvent. They do not have to wait for a check to clear.” He believes that this is particularly valuable to the landscape contractors during the busy season, when they need materials and supplies. “Cash is the lifeblood of small businesses.” The company recently began a program, which connects customers with a variety of services including insurance products ranging from workers’ compensation and general liability to auto, home and renter’s insurance; as well as credit card rebates, legal access, business funding, discounted payroll services and a Buying Group which Hans describes as a portal through which customers can The Landscape Contractor July 2016

search multiple web sites for the best deals. Abby and Michael Hans sit on the Board of Directors for Back to School Illinois, a foundation which provides school supplies for underprivileged children. This year they gave about 26,000 children ranging in age from Head Start, to primary grades and elementary, junior and senior high school classrooms appropriate supplies, such as paper, notebooks, crayons, protractors, markers, folders and even boxes of tissues. They also provide hygiene kits for those who live in City of Chicago homeless shelters. These contain toothbrushes and toothpaste, combs and soap. Statewide, the organization helps a number of institutions, such as the YMCA, Boys and Girls Clubs, Catholic Charities, JCC and Operation Homefront, as well as other groups. A former staffer who now works for a landscape supply company ®suggested that Express Capital Solutions join ILCA, says Hans. “We went right to the association and became a member.” He believes that they can be of help to the smaller landscape contractors. “Being small ourselves, we recognize what other small businesses need,” Hans says.

WHEN WHEN THERE’S THERE’S WORK WORK TO TO DO, DO, THERE’S THERE’S DITCH DITCH WITCH WITCH

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Ditch Witch Midwest The Premier Sponsor of the 2016 ILCA Golf Outing

PROUD MEMBER

Ditch Witch Midwest | 124 N. Schmale Road | Carol Stream, IL 60188 | 800-243-1328 | www.ditchwitchmidwest.com

Classified Ads HELP WANTED

HELP WANTED

Spray Technician - Plant Health Care

Wingren Landscape Downers Grove, IL Visit Website www.wingrenlandscape.com

Development Residential Maintenance Account Manager • Do you strive to enrich lives by creating and maintaining beautiful landscapes? • Are you enthused about managing and building client relationships? • Are you looking for a team environment with a company that values work-life balance and promotes safety first?

Rosborough Partners, Inc. is seeking an experienced Spray Technician. Responsibilities include handling and applying pesticides according to label specifications, loading materials and scheduling routes to achieve efficient use of time. This position also requires the ability to neatly organize and store inventory with a minimal amount of space and during peak season- April 1 thru July 1, the ability and willingness to regularly work on Saturday. Requirements for this position are: Operator/Applicator license in turf, ornamental and mosquito. Class C Driver License. Horticultural knowledge and landscape industry experience. English & Spanish fluency is a plus. Prefer 3 to 5 years of experience. Please email resume to: resumes@rosboroughpartners.com ACRES GROUP CAREER OPPORTUNITYMAINTENANCE PRODUCTION MANAGER in Plainfield! Acres Group, one of the top 20 professional landscape contractors in the nation, is seeking Maintenance Production Manager to manage multiple crews, equipment and materials during landscape and snow seasons. Assure quality service & customer satisfaction while monitoring job costs & crew safety. Join our industry leading team! To view full job descriptions and apply online, visit us at www.acresgroup.com or contact Amy@ 847-487-5071

Wingren Landscape, Inc. is an award winning fullservice landscape company for both residential and commercial properties. Our outdoor services are virtually limitless and include full-scale landscape maintenance, design, construction, lighting, and irrigation. We are all things outdoors. Founded on a commitment to excellence since 1957. We are seeking experienced candidates for the following full time positions: • Maintenance Account Manager/ BusinessDevelopment • Maintenance Supervisor/ Superintendent • Lawn-care Technician Please send resume to: Gnordquist@wingrenlandscape.com Fax: 630-759-8155

Residential Architect / Designer Position Role / Requirements: This person will be responsible for managing all phases of residential design projects of varying types and sizes from initial client outreach to project managing the job to completion. The position involves design, sales and project management. • B.S. Landscape Architecture or demonstraedexperience. • Ability to produce high-quality creative designs, estimate and sell jobs. • Intermediate to advanced skill level in Autocad, Adobe Photoshop, and MS Office. Experience with Sketch Up, LandFX and Asset is considered a plus. • 5 plus years of experience preferred (Licensed in Illinois a plus) • Excellent communication and graphic skills Please send resume and work samples to: mthumm@wingrenlandscape.com

James Martin Associates has given outstanding landscape services to residential and commercial clients in Design/Build, Maintenance and Snow Removal in the north and northwest suburbs of Chicago area for almost 40 years. If are interested in joining our team, please send your resume to Beth McElroy, at b.mcelroy@ jamesmartinassociates.com, or call 847-876-8052. At Scott Byron & Co. we do an outstanding job of designing the landscape. We choose beautiful plants and flowers. We have incredible teams of people doing amazing things during the installation. And we provide an incredibly high level of care to each property that we maintain. But the real magic of Scott Byron & Co. is the ability to manipulate that landscape so it creates a feeling. Be a part of the magic and join our team. We are currently recruiting for the following positions: • Client Relations Manager • Construction Project Manager • Foreman We promote a drug-free work environment. Competitive pay, based on experience. EOE Please forward your resume and salary requirements to hrtrybus@gmail.com

CAREER OPPORTUNITIES JAMES MARTIN ASSOCIATES, INC. Vernon Hills, IL & Boulder, CO

James Martin Associates, Inc. is a leader in the Landscape and Snow Management industry. We have been providing services to our customers for over 39 years.

Irrigation Technicians

We are seeking candidates for the following positions:

Account Managers

Business Development

To be considered for any of these opportunities, please forward your resume and salary history to b.mcelroy@jamesmartinassociates.com or call Beth at 847-876-8052.

Landscape Architecture • Construction • Maintenance • Snow Management

www.jamesmartinassociates.com

The Landscape Contractor July 2016

HELP WANTED

Irrigation Technician/Seed Handler II

Construction Production Dept. Manager.

Service Center Manager

We are seeking an experienced Construction Production Dept. Manager. This is an opportunity to be involved in all facets of coordinating the construction production department in order to achieve the most efficient use of resources and people. The ideal candidate will enjoy the challenge of prioritizing projects, ordering material to prepare for upcoming projects, coordinating production schedules, handling multiple tasks, working under tight and changing timelines as well as managing crews of team members. The position requires 3-5 years of experience in the landscape industry and/or a related degree. A “C” Class license with a good driving record. Horticultural knowledge is desirable. English/ Spanish fluency is beneficial Please email resume to: resumes@rosboroughpartners.com

Conserv FS is seeking applicants for a Service Center Manager in Wauconda, IL. This position directs the overall performance of their respective Service Center. Responsibilities include obtaining and maintaining physical inventories as required, leadership of the customer order fulfillment process, including inside sales, delivery operations and warehousing, administrative tasks, and supervision of the Service Center employees. BS Degree or equivalent experience preferred. Forklift Certification required. Ability to operate standard office equipment and plant equipment. Valid Driver’s License required; with good driving record; CDL and/or ability to obtain CDL desirable. Must be computer literate. Must have proven verbal and written communication skills. Must be able to speak and write English. To apply go to: https://career4.successfactors.com/sfcareer/jobreq career?jobId=46003&company=Growmark&user name=

Ball Horticultural Company is looking for a full time Irrigation Technician/Seed Handler II. This role will divide it’s time between two departments The Gardens at Ball and the Premier Lab. This role will spend six months (April-Oct) as an Irrigation Technician, operating and maintaining our irrigation system independently. The other six months (NovApril) will be spent as a Seed Handler II ensuring that all seed and other related material is handled in an appropriate manner specific to that area and that processes are running smoothly and efficiently to meet management and/or customer requirements. Job Description: Essential Functions: Irrigation Technician: Operate and understand a complex outdoor irrigation system. Possess familiarity with tools, parts, and maps associated with landscape irrigation systems. Troubleshoot, repair and fix winterization issues. Perform repair and maintenance to the irrigation system May be responsible for other duties to include delivery driver, general laborer and small maintenance tasks. Other duties as assigned Essential Functions: Seed Handler II: Responsible for all general labor that is required in processing of all seed in designated area. May be responsible for picking, packing, labeling/tagging, sealing, loading/unloading seed/trucks, support of priming, pelleting, coating, testing; may also be responsible for organizing, moving, or placing seed into proper storage containers or other storage requirements. May perform quality checks on product. May utilize electronic computer systems for inventory-related duties or other responsibilities. Depending upon area, may participate in performance improvement or other meetings and provide recommendations to supervisor, is applicable. Responsible for keeping work area clean and free of hazards. Cross train in other areas as required. Other duties as assigned. Job Requirements: Possess the knowledge and understanding of a complex irrigation system; familiarity with Hunter I-Core and Pedestal timers a plus Minimum of two years of irrigation work experience is a must High School graduate or equivalent (G.E.D.). Basic Math skills: addition, subtraction, multiplication, division. English reading and writing skills required. Ability to work overtime on short notice. Ability to operate mechanical equipment, as this may be required in some areas. Work well as part of a team. Physical Requirements Ability to lift/carry 50+ pounds. Must be able to stand as well as be comfortable crouching for extended periods of time. Ability to sit and stand for prolonged periods of time (8 hours or more) Physical mobility to reach, bend and stoop. For some roles, must have the ability to work in cold vault (40 degrees). Have good range of motion with extremities – requires repetitive work Good physical condition. Interested Candidates: Mail your resume to: Ball Horticultural Company 622 Town Road West Chicago, IL 60185 Human Resources Dept. Attn: Kristy Puma or FAX your resume to: 630-231-3592 or email your resume to: careers@ballhort.com

Production Manager / Operations Manager A.M. Landscape & Design is seeking a production manager or operations manager (depending on experience). Position is responsible for all field operations during both landscaping and snow seasons. Ideal candidate will have background in residential and commercial landscape maintenance, construction, and snow removal. A degree in Horticulture/Turf Management or similar is preferred. Number of Employees: 18+ (7+ direct reports) Please contact Kirk for a full job description or to apply. 847-790-6280 Landscape Maintenance Estimator/ Account Manager We are looking for an additional year-round Landscape Maintenance Estimator/Account Manager to be our primary contact in maintaining relationships with existing commercial & municipal clients. Familiarity with maintenance estimating and pricing skill is required, along with a thorough knowledge of landscape maintenance and maintenance enhancement procedures. Come join our growing team and be an integral part of a large and successful business in the South Suburbs. For 32 years we have been growing a friendly and comfortable work environment that values quality of work as much as quality time away from the office. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS: Minimum 3 years’ experience in related field Must possess a valid driver’s license Good insect/disease diagnosis skills Bi-lingual is helpful Degree in Horticulture is helpful, but not required Please send your resume and salary requirements to info@suburbanlandscaping.net

The Landscape Contractor July 2016

Production Manager / Operations Manager A.M. Landscape & Design is seeking a production manager or operations manager (depending on experience). Position is responsible for all field operations during both landscaping and snow seasons. Ideal candidate will have background in residential and commercial landscape maintenance, construction, and snow removal. A degree in Horticulture/Turf Management or similar is preferred. Number of Employees: 18+ (7+ direct reports) Please contact Kirk for a full job description or to apply. 847-790-6280 Commercial Landscape Architect/Designer Rosborough Partners, Inc. an award winning Design-Build firm in Libertyville, Illinois, is seeking a landscape architect/designer to join our design team. We are looking for an individual with a passion for commercial design to assist in all aspects of the landscape design process. Our firm provides an excellent compensation package and an enjoyable place to work. Candidates should have at least 2 to 3 years of experience and possess strong design, graphic, and communication skills. Experience with AutoCAD, Adobe Creative Suite, and Microsoft Office is strongly preferred. A degree in Landscape Architecture or Landscape Design equivalent is required. Please direct inquiries to: Chris Durley, ASLA, PLA chris@rosboroughpartners.com

HELP WANTED

Reinders is currently seeking an enthusiastic individual with exceptional organizational and communication skills to join our Franklin Park, IL Team

SEBERT LANDSCAPE

Restoration Technician

Sebert Landscape services the Chicago-land area with a unique and sustainable approach. We call it “The New Green” and it’s our way of changing the landscaping industry.

The Restoration Technician position consists of work primarily in the areas of invasive plant control, stewardship, native seed and plant installation, invasive tree & shrub clearing, and Prescribed Fire within natural areas. Pizzo & Associates, Ltd. is looking for applicants who are willing to report to Barrington, IL. Duties include 100% field work within natural areas, native landscapes, and other ecologically important natural areas. Applicant must be able to endure the physical nature of the work and have a valid driver’s license and viable transportation to one of our reporting sites. Working knowledge of native and non-native species, both woody and herbaceous, is preferred. Hours are steady and seasonally variable, and may include weekends during peak times of the year.

Reinders,Inc. is a family owned Distribution Company established in 1866,headquartered in Sussex,WI with 200 employees and 12 locations across the Midwest. In addition to a comprehensive benefits package, work life balance is an integral part of the culture here at Reinders. Primary Responsibilities: • Serve a liaison between service technicians and service customers. • Collaborate with shop technicians regarding work orders. • Build positive relationships with customers by providing excellent customer service through greeting, reporting, and follow-up, regularly. • Process paperwork in a timely manner. • Mentor and educate staff members on business software and productivity software functionality. • Develop and communicate customer quotes for repair. • Process outgoing and incoming shipments. • Develop a broad range of knowledge in various areas of equipment repair including equipment set-up, warranty processing, and customer invoicing. • Process purchase orders. • Weekly review of all open orders for accuracy. • Communicate via email with the Transportation Manager on the pickup and delivery of equipment. Education, Experience and Qualifications: • High School Education or GED Equivalent • required. • Proficient in Microsoft Office: Specifically Word, Outlook and Excel. • Proficient in data entry. • Must be able to perform basic math functions and read/comprehend written procedures. • Mechanical aptitude and knowledge of commercial turf maintenance equipment desired. • Willingness to become Taro Certified as a Service Advisor. • Must possess strong organization skills and ability to prioritize effectively. • Customer service experience, desired. • This information is a general outline of responsibilities, duties and skills for performing the job. It is not inclusive of all requirements for this position. • Full-time position general schedule MondayFriday,7 am- 3:30 pm • Hourly wage based on experience. Benefits: Health, Dental, Vision, Life, Short-Term Disability, Flexible Spending Account, Paid Time Off, Paid Holidays, and 401-k. Please send resumes to: Brian Hedges bhedges@reinders.com

*Construction/Enhancement Supervisor* This position is responsible for assisting the residential Landscape Architect/Designers in supervising construction/enhancement crews and all the functions pertaining to the crews. Supervising job quality and performance are the primary responsibilities. Other responsibilities include scheduling of projects, management of crews and materials, and others. We are seeking an individual who works independently and has strong problem solving and organizational skills. 2-3 years of experience managing hardscape and landscape projects is highly recommended. This position calls for an individual who is eager to learn and looking to be a part of a growing team. Position is located in Bolingbrook IL Send resumes to Lorena: LORENA@SEBERT.COM Landscape Residential Maintenance Account Manager Rosborough Partners, Inc. is accepting resumes for an experienced Residential Maintenance Account Manager to manage portfolio of residential maintenance clients. Responsibilities include preparing proposals, contract renewals, identifying and selling new sales leads and ensuring quality control is followed on client sites. Revenue and profitability goals will be set each year and accomplished by analyzing, planning, organizing, and adjusting schedules to achieve efficient use of resources and people. Establishing, building and maintaining client relationships are the keys to being successful in this position. Landscape industry experience and/or a horticultural degree are required. English & Spanish fluency is a plus. We offer competitive wages and benefits. Please email resume to: resumes@rosboroughpartners.com Driver This position picks up and delivers nursery and landscape products to multiple locations. Position requires the physical ability to frequently climb, bend, stoop, lift and carry. Must be able to lift 50 pounds or more. Requires a valid CDL driver’s license with a good driving record and min. 2 years industry experience. English/Spanish fluency is beneficial. Contact - resumes@rosboroughpartners.com

The Landscape Contractor July 2016

Qualified candidates should submit an employment application to Lucas Henkel at lucash@pizzo.info.

**Account Manager** Candidate is the primary customer contact and company liaison for contracted accounts. Individual is responsible for necessary follow-up and followthrough to maintain positive customer relations, to insure complete customer satisfaction and contract renewals, suggest and sell non-contracted landscape enhancements. Send resumes to Lorena: lorena@sebert.com

FOR SALE For Sale: Bolingbrook Landscape Supply Facility. 5.2+/- Acre with Two 8,500s.f. +/- Buildings. Located along Boughten Rd in Bolingbrook. Ideal to continue on as supply facility or could be used as landscaper headquarters. Call Chris Condon of john greene Commercial 815-693-3005 CLASSIFIED ADS CLOSING DATES & RATES August 2016 issue ads: July 15, 2016 September 2016 issue ads: August 15, 2016 PLEASE NOTE: “HELP WANTED” AD SALES ARE LIMITED TO ILCA MEMBER COMPANIES Magazine Cost is $5 per line Minimum charge $50 Website Cost is $12 per line Minimum charge $120 (About 6 words/line) Submit your ads online at ilca.net or call Alycia O’Connor (630) 472-2851

Advertisers A Block Marketing ..................................................47 Agrecol..............................................................6 Bartlett Tree Experts .............................................27 Beaver Creek Nursery ..........................................45 Cardno ...................................................................22 Carlin Sales...............................................................6 Chicagoland Gardening .........................................61 Clesen Wholesale ...................................................27 Compost Supply .....................................................17 Cornerstone Processing ..........................................32 Dayton Bag & Burlap .............................................50 Ditch Witch Midwest ..............................................57 Doty Nurseries LLC ................................................6 Goodmark Nurseries ..............................................51 Green Glen Nursery ...............................................63 B. Haney & Sons, Inc. ............................................50 Hinsdale Nurseries, Inc. .......................................14 Hoffie Nursery .......................................................41 Homer Industries ....................................................31 ILCA Golf Outing ...................................................55

Attention Landscape Contractors: Remember to Support ILCA Supporters!

These include:

• Members & Advertisers who supply goods and services • Members who sponsor ILCA programs and events

Where will you find them? • ILCA Membership Directory & Buyer’s Guide • The Landscape Contractor magazine advertising • The Landscape Contractor magazine reports of events with sponsor acknowledgments • www.ilca.net member lists – Finding a Landscape Contractor & Suppliers to the Trade

James Martin Associates .........................................58 JKS Ventures ..........................................................50 Lafarge River Stone ..............................................49 Lemke Stone ...........................................................41 Longshadow Planters .............................................13 McGinty Bros. ........................................................43 Midwest Groundcovers ...........................................2 Midwest Trading .....................................................12 Mobile Fleet Express .............................................16 Monroe Truck .........................................................26 Ornamental Growers Association .........................21 Perfect Turf ............................................................55 ProGreen Plus ..........................................................6 Rainbow Farms Enterprises ....................................50 RealDyne ...............................................................33 Rental Max .............................................................11 Rocks Etc. .............................................................42 RWC Insurance ......................................................32 Stockyards Brick Co. ...............................................15 The Care of Trees .................................................... 6 The Mulch Center ...................................................49 The Tree Connection ..............................................48 Spring Meadow Nursery .........................................29 Unilock, Inc. ...........................................................64 Vermeer Midwest ...................................................19 Xylem, Inc. ............................................................42

The Landscape Contractor July 2016

All-Star Plants

Redpointe® Maple Acer rubrum ‘Frank Jr.’

Members of the Ornamental Growers Association of Northern Illinois will be the exclusive provider of content for the Plant All-Stars page during 2016.

By Jr. Tecza

Some plants

— just like All-Star athletes — make everyone around them look better. What’s a plant you can use — and recommend — with confidence? We’ve asked ILCA members — who are also members of the Ornamental Growers Association of Northern Illinois — to share their thoughts on proven performers. Redpointe®Maple consistently delivers the brilliant red fall color that people are looking for in a red maple. Redpointe colors early and can be depended on to provide brilliant fall color year after year. But I think there are lots of reasons to like this tree throughout the year. In summer, the leaves are deep green—a little smaller and more refined than Acer x freemanii. Unlike other red maples, Redpointe doesn’t get chlorosis when planted in our high pH soils. That means the leaves also don’t burn along the margins, giving the foliage a fresh look all summer. Redpointe also has superior resistance to anthracnose, spider mites and leafhoppers-more points in its favor. I like Redpoint® even when it doesn’t have any leaves, though. It has nice grey bark and a very attractive habit. Its strong central leader gives it a symmetrical canopy, without requiring shaping or pruning. Redpointe is a nativar—Acer rubrum is an Illinois native. That’s another point in its favor. This tree is a little faster growing than other red maples--similar to freemanii. This tree transplants easily. In fact, although I normally only dig red maples in spring, this year we experimented with digging some in fall to help keep the trees in inventory. We’ll see how that works out. It can handle tougher spots, although I’d keep it out of heavier, clay soils. It does best in moist, well-drained soils, and lower pH is better. Redpointe® is an introduction by J. Frank Schmidt & Son. They put in a lot of work to come up with this improved selection, and I consider it an All Star Plant.

Acer rubrum ‘Frank Jr.’ Redpointe® Maple facts—

JR. Tecza

Size: 45’ tall with spread of 30’

Ornamental Features Attractive grey bark; strong central leader with symmetrical canopy

Foliage Deep green (smaller & more refined than Acer x freemanii); consistently brilliant red foliage

Culture Sun to part shade in moist, well-drained soil. Resistant to chlorosis, spider mites, leaf hoppers and anthracnose.

Jr. Tecza is past president of the Ornamental Growers Association of Northern Illinois. He has been in the nursery business since he graduated from University of Illinois UrbanaChampaign in 1989 with a Bachelor’s degree in ornamental horticulture. He joined Hinsdale Nurseries in 2006. In 2013 he became nursery manager of the company’s 600-acre Little Rock Farm near Plano.

Nursery Manager, Hinsdale Nurseries, Inc.

The Landscape Contractor July 2016