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JOIN THE SFV CHAPTER AT THEIR POOL AND BILLIARDS NIGHT IN SIMI VALLEYThursday, March 26• Billiard Plaza, 2261 Tapo Street, Simi Valley• RSVP to SFV Chapter Office ASAP (818) 772-7233 Story on Page 14
The Channel IslandsThe Channel IslandsThe Channel IslandsThe Channel IslandsThe Channel IslandsThe Channel IslandsThe Channel IslandsThe Channel IslandsThe Channel IslandsThe Channel IslandsThe Channel IslandsThe Channel IslandsThe Channel IslandsThe Channel IslandsThe Channel IslandsThe Channel IslandsThe Channel IslandsThe Channel IslandsThe Channel IslandsThe Channel IslandsThe Channel IslandsThe Channel IslandsThe Channel IslandsThe Channel IslandsThe Channel IslandsThe Channel IslandsThe Channel IslandsThe Channel IslandsThe Channel IslandsThe Channel IslandsThe Channel IslandsThe Channel IslandsThe Channel IslandsThe Channel IslandsThe Channel IslandsThe Channel IslandsThe Channel IslandsThe Channel IslandsThe Channel IslandsThe Channel IslandsThe Channel IslandsThe Channel IslandsThe Channel IslandsThe Channel IslandsThe Channel IslandsThe Channel IslandsThe Channel IslandsThe Channel IslandsThe Channel IslandsThe Channel IslandsThe Channel IslandsThe Channel IslandsThe Channel IslandsThe Channel IslandsThe Channel IslandsThe Channel IslandsThe Channel IslandsThe Channel IslandsThe Channel IslandsThe Channel IslandsThe Channel IslandsThe Channel IslandsThe Channel IslandsThe Channel IslandsThe Channel IslandsThe Channel IslandsThe Channel IslandsThe Channel IslandsThe Channel IslandsThe Channel IslandsThe Channel IslandsThe Channel IslandsThe Channel IslandsThe Channel IslandsThe Channel IslandsThe Channel IslandsThe Channel IslandsThe Channel IslandsThe Channel IslandsThe Channel IslandsThe Channel IslandsThe Channel IslandsThe Channel IslandsThe Channel IslandsThe Channel IslandsThe Channel IslandsThe Channel IslandsThe Channel IslandsThe Channel IslandsThe Channel IslandsThe Channel IslandsThe Channel IslandsThe Channel IslandsThe Channel IslandsThe Channel IslandsThe Channel Islands March 2015Vol. 9 No. 3
The Monthly Magazine of the CLCA–Channel Islands Chapter
Now available online atwww.eldoradocommunicationspublications.info
The Next Event
23RD ANNUAL AWA WATER SYMPOSIUM• Thursday, April 16, 7 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.• Courtyard by Marriott, Oxnard Story on Page 4
SAVE THE DATE!
American Water SymposiumThursday, April 16• See story page 4
PHOTO ROUND-UPPages 6, 7 & 8
COVER PHOTO:LIS SUPPLIER RECEPTION, held in the beautiful atrium-like welcome area of the Ontario Convention Center, drew scores of company representatives and CLCA members, all wanting to join in the camaraderie, tasty food and excellent music. (More LIS photos pages 6, 7 & 8.)
CLCA Optimistic About New Water Rules As reported by Larry Rohlfes, Assistant Executive Director
Sweeping new restrictions on water use – enforced by a threat-ened $500 fine for property owners – drew cautious praise
from the California Landscape Contractors Association during a state hearing Tuesday.
“Given that California has apparently fallen short of the 20 percent [urban water use conservation] goal, it seems appropriate to send a stronger message for the coming months,” CLCA Assistant Executive Director Larry Rohlfes, CAE, told members of the State Water Resources Control Board.
In addition to limiting how hotels and restaurants use water, the new regulations approved by the board Tuesday prohibit homes and businesses from watering when it’s raining or within two days of rain. They also mandate that water agencies that don’t already limit outdoor watering to certain days of the week restrict customers’ outdoor watering to two days a week. The new regula-tions extend and expand regulations issued last summer that, at the time, also drew praise from CLCA.
Rohlfes’ testimony was the culmination of months of public and behind-the-scenes efforts by association leaders, CLCA Resource Management Committee members and staff to help craft a response to California’s lagging conservation efforts.
As Rohlfes told the board Tuesday, “CLCA members believe it’s imperative to make sure our landscapes are using as little water as possible.” Now is the time to back up those words with action. CLCA members are well positioned to help property owners comply with statewide rules as well as an expected heightened public interest in water-efficient landscape renovations in the coming months. Understand the rules and think about how to turn them into business opportunities!
During questions and comments, the following information was brought forth by Larry:
The water board adopted these regulations in order to safeguard water supplies in the face of continuing drought. The Sierra Nevada snowpack is at its lowest point in 100 years and reservoirs are dramatically low. Many water supply systems face a present or threatened risk of inadequate supply.
Regulations adopted last summer did the following:
(1) Prohibited the application of potable water to outdoor land-scapes in a manner that causes runoff.
(2) Prohibited the use of potable water in a fountain or other decorative water feature, unless the water is part of a recirculating system.
2 March 2015 The Channel Islands Clipper
IN REMEMBRANCE OF A DEAR FRIEND
If I Could Only Plant a Seed… By Elizabeth Burns, Zone 24 Landscaping
2015 got off to a fast start, with the economy feeling stronger, homeowners spending more money, and with lots and lots of work on the horizon. Just around the corner was our LIS Show at a new venue which I’m sure all of us on the Committee were excited about.
And then a beautiful specimen tree fell from the forest to devastate so very many of us.
The past few years, many of us in the Industry – and especially in CLCA – have witnessed several beautiful trees from the forest fall, and each and every one of us was probably touched in some way by that tree. Whether it was just walking in the forest being amongst those trees, standing beside them, brushing up against their bark, or smelling the freshness they give and the inner warmth when we take a deep breath.
Do we as individuals stop to actually acknowledge that tree in all its beauty – what it stands for, what it does for us, environ-mentally as well as personally? Do we appreciate each and every one of its branches, needles, bark, sap…and everything else that makes up the beauty of that tree?
I am personally and profoundly saddened at the loss of a favorite of mine. Fettlework (Felicia) Abai was one hell of a
specimen. From the many of us who were able to know her, to breathe in her beauty, to watch her grow new branches in life, and to generally be amongst her in this forest we call life. I will say, even though there are many seedlings in the forest coming in behind these giant beauties we have lost, there will never be one the same as my friend Felicia…
Gone, but never forgotten. If I could only plant a seed…
Be kind, be appreciative, and be compassionate.
Felicia Abai and her good friend, Beth Burns.
FLASH! WATER NEWS UPDATE!
Continued on page 15
The Channel Islands Clipper March 2015 3
Channel Islands Chapter
2015 Board of Directors
VICE PRESIDENT RESOURCE MANAGEMENT
Shari Collins Gardens 4 the Soul (805) 517-1971
VICE PRESIDENT EVENTS Dan Dvorak
Landscape Contractors Insurance Services (877) 527-5247
SECRETARY Julio Gomez
Coastline Equipment (805) 485-2106
VICE PRESIDENT MEMBERSHIP Bob Klaidman SPJ Lighting
(818) 391-4839 [email protected]
VICE PRESIDENT LEGISLATION Atty. Michael S. Martin Myers, Widders, Gibson
& Jones, LLP (805) 644-7188
VICE PRESIDENT COMMUNICATIONS
Matthew Romsa Bamboo Pipeline (805) 764-2600
(805) 914-7785 cell [email protected]
EVENTS COMMITTEE MEMBER Claudio Sandoval
Claudio’s Landscape Innovations (805) 732-5156 cell
ASSOCIATE MEMBER REP. John Hernandez
El Dorado Communications (626) 965-5015
CHAPTER AMBASSADOR Pete Dufau
Dufau Landscaping (805) 642-1239
LIFE MEMBER Tom Lucas
Performance Nursery (310) 925-8075
PRESIDENT Sarah Corbin
Grounds Maintenance Services (805) 498-9495 x 303
CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD/TREASURER
Brandon Bogeaus American Nurseries (818) 222-0440
STATE AND LOCAL EVENTS
EDITOR John Hernandez (626) 965-5015
19055 Abdera St. Rowland Heights, CA 91748 [email protected]
FAX (866) 591-5093
ASSOCIATE EDITOR/ART DIRECTOR
Jerry Robin (626) 794-2674 [email protected]
CHANNEL ISLANDS CLIPPER
Coming Events, Contact Numbers & More
www.clcachannelislands.com
SUBJECT TO CHANGE – CHECK WITH A BOARD MEMBER FIRST
2015
April 10 Landscape Certified Technician Exam (written) Cuyamaca College – San Diego, CA
11 Landscape Certified Technician Exam (hands on) Cuyamaca College – San Diego, CA
16 Water Symposium, Courtyard by Marriott, Oxnard
May 1 SFV Beautification Awards Early Bird entries due
8 Final deadline for awards entries
14-17 Judging for Beautification Awards
June 20 SFV Beautification Awards – Valley Crest Tree Co., Sunland
TBA Fishing Trip
July SFX Lake Tahoe area TBD
Sept. 24 CI/SFV Golf Tournament TBD
Nov. 11-14 State Convention – Hyatt Indian Wells Resort & Spa, Palm Springs
Board Meetings are held the 2nd Thursday of each month at noon unless otherwise noted. Locations vary.
STATE AND LOCAL EVENTS
27 North Nopal St., P.O. Box 4809, Santa Barbara, CA 93140-4809Phone (805) 963-5891 FAX (805) 962-7993
Email [email protected]
Jim Osweiler
SANTA BARBARA STONE & MASONRY, INC.
2015 CLCA State Board of DirectorsPRESIDENT – Javier Lesaca (661) 836-0229
Lesaca Landscape Company, [email protected]
PRESIDENT-ELECT – Stephen Jacobs, CLT, CWM, CLP Nature Designs Landscaping, (760) 945-4321, [email protected]
IMMEDIATE PAST PRESIDENT – Chuck Carr (818) 388-0214 Pierre Sprinkler & Landscape, [email protected]
SECRETARY/TREASURER – Ted Sandrowski (530) 345-6101 Sandrowski Landscaping, Inc., [email protected]
DIRECTOR OF CHAPTER SERVICES – Richard Sheffield (661) 245-1147 Antioch Nursery, Landscape & Tree Service, [email protected]
DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATIONS – Jerrie Beard Jerrie Beard & Associates, (530) 621-1701, [email protected]
DIRECTOR OF EDUCATION – Aaron Huxley (408) 824-0181 Hunter Industries, [email protected]
DIRECTOR OF EVENTS – Elizabeth Burns Zone 24 Landscaping, Inc., (310) 831-6132
DIRECTOR OF LEGISLATION – Pete Dufau clt, cwm (805) 642-1239 Dufau Landscape Inc., [email protected]
DIRECTOR OF MEMBERSHIP – James Walker (650) 333-2021 Landsculpt Gardens, [email protected]
DIRECTOR OF RESOURCE MANAGEMENT – Shari Collins (805) 517-1971 Gardens 4 the Soul, [email protected]
ASSOCIATE MEMBER DIRECTOR – John R. Hernandez (626) 965-5015 El Dorado Communications, Inc., [email protected]
CHAPTER PRESIDENTS COUNCIL (North) Tim Hendricks (800) 891-7710
Cagwin & Dorward, [email protected]
CHAPTER PRESIDENTS COUNCIL (South) Edward Wallace, CLIA (562) 755-9914
Midwest Landscaping
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR – Sandra Giarde cae (916) 830-2780 [email protected]
THE NEXT EVENT
Association of Water Agencies of Ventura County Presents its 23rd Annual Water Symposium Thursday, April 16
AWA, the Association of Water Agencies of Ventura County, is getting ready for its 23rd Annual Water Symposium set
for Thursday, April 16, 7 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at the Courtyard by Marriott in Oxnard. The Channel Islands Chapter is a member of AWA and will participate in the interesting and informative event.
One of the major topics to be discussed is “Is There an App for That?…New Tools for New Times.” Once, you could reach nearly every household in the community with an ad in the local paper. Water was too cheap and abundant to meter. Lush lawns were a source of pride. Car phones were the size of a Kleenex box and cost more than a television. “Network” meant CBS, NBC or ABC. “The web” was something sticky spun by a spider.
Times have changed. But our tools and strategies have not changed enough to keep up. In less than a generation, dramatic advances in communication and information technology have opened up new opportunities for water managers, at the same time that regulatory
restrictions, unfavorable climate trends, funding constraints and population growth have erected formidable new obstacles. Will new tools better equip us to meet 21st Century water challenges? What are they?
Find out the answers to these questions and more at the largest annual water conference in the region, with over 50 agencies represented. Don’t miss this one-day enlightening conference, with up-to-date information. Call now for sponsor opportunities and exhibitor spaces! Courtyard by Marriott is located at 600 E. Esplanade Dr., Oxnard, CA 93036. Put it in your calendars now.
WHO SHOULD ATTEND? Anyone who drinks water, needs water, sells water, buys water or uses water! Contact AWA: (805) 644-0922 or [email protected] to get involved or for more informa-tion.
4 March 2015 The Channel Islands Clipper
CALL OUR ADVERTISERS FIRST!
Water Awareness
The Channel Islands Clipper March 2015 5
PRESIDENT Brandon Bogeaus
American Nurseries (818) 222-0440
CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD/EVENTS
Julio Gomez Coastline Equipment
(805) 485-2106 [email protected]
Transitions
6 March 2015 The Channel Islands Clipper
Industry NewsSuppliers Take Center Stage at LIS Show in Ontario
KELLOGG GARDEN PRODUCTS reps showed their ingenuity by building a great backdrop for their booth out of wooden pallets. They are Ty Hall, Jim McAlister
and Toby Lebron.
GRO-POWER rep Jack Engberg greets attendees with a smile and lots of information about his
full line of soil amendments.
VILLAGE NURSERIES reps Jim Muncill, Pam Bennett and Richard Barto greet visitors with information
about their Western Garden Collection.
SOUTHLAND SOD reps John Domenici (left) and Norm Lopez (right) are visited by Ewing’s Warren Gorowitz who came out from Arizona for the LIS Show.
RAIN BIRD’S Ryan Lee and Jim Dansby can come up with irrigation solutions in the blink of an eye.
BEST/SIMPLOT CREW, including Geoff Johansen, Gordon Harada and Stephen Bitter,
welcome LIS show-goers.
EWING’S TEAM, led by Ray York (2nd from right) and Raul Gonzalez (4th from right), demonstrate an
impressive commitment to CLCA and its big trade show.
2015 LIS COMMITTEE, led by Chair Gordon Larson (5th from left), is joined by CLCA President Javier Lesaca (plaid shirt, holding a giant pair of scissors), at the event ribbon cutting. The ceremony marked the opening of the
Landscape Industry Show in its new venue at the Ontario Convention Center.
BOB KLAIDMAN, CI VP Membership, is visited by SFV Board Chair Steven Kinzler as he walks the aisles of
the LIS Show.
SMITH PIPE & SUPPLY Reps Don Rockwell, Glenn Sparrow and Brian Wilbur gather ‘round their big
screen TV raffle prize. Very nice!
COASTLINE EQUIPMENT’S Julio Gomez (center), a Past CI Chapter President, greets attendees to the Ontario Convention Center with his associates Fabian
Ortega (left) and Albert Fernandez.
The Channel Islands Clipper March 2015 7
Industry NewsOntario Convention Center – A Welcome Change
S&S SEEDS reps Jody Miller and Victor Schaff are visited by Doug York of Ewing Irrigation Products.
HUNTER/FX LUMINAIRE rep Raul Avila welcomes Eric Watanabe, Past State and SFV President,
to his company’s LIS booth.
PERFORMANCE NURSERY reps Jesse Marquez and Tom Lucas always help to dress up the show floor
with their plants and color at strategic locations throughout LIS.
A-G SOD reps Mark Hommel, Jeff Tuesburg and Paul Gaudet talk sod to LIS Show-goers.
HALL OF FAME – Staffing the Green Industry Hall of Fame booth are Marcie and McKenna Daigle, with
Co-Founder Charles Nunley, a Past State and LA/SGV President.
HYDRO-SCAPE also sent out a large team of knowledgeable reps. They are Raul Marrufo, Doug
Chilton, Danny Coats, Jennifer Michalik, Kevin Treft, and Jeff Tiglio.
VALLEY CREST TREE’S Robert Crudup greets attendees with a lovely display and important information.
Valley Crest Tree Company will be hosting the SFV Awards Dinner on June 20.
SPJ LIGHTING reps Bob Klaidman, a CI Chapter Board member, and Greg Schneider talk landscape lighting
with the Ontario Show visitors.
LCIS/BIRCH reps and board members greet current and potential clients. Shown are Pam Kinne, David
Bloodgood, Melissa Tetzlaff, Terry Mahlman, Kim Ayala, Nelson Colvin, Allen Chariton and Mickey Strauss.
LANDSCAPE VETERANS and marketing wizards, Past State President Pete Dufau and radio/TV
Things Green host Nick Federoff, chat about the LIS’ new and impressive venue.
VISTA LIGHTING rep and Past CI President Brian Peace joins Rick Baird in showcasing Vista’s extensive line of professional landscape lighting to
LIS attendees.
WEST COAST TURF rep John Marman (right) greets visitors as Tom Stafford chats
with an LIS attendee.
8 March 2015 The Channel Islands Clipper
State CLCA News
Landscape Awards Competition Announced• SFV/CI and Area Chapter Landscapers
to Compete for Top Honors
This year’s Beautification Awards will again be open to entries from Channel Islands, San Fernando Valley, and
surrounding chapters. The competition will culminate in a fabulous Awards Dinner at the Valley Crest Tree Growing Grounds in Sunland on June 20. This is the same location where the Awards Dinner was held last year, and is where the San Fernando Valley Chapter Golf Tournament has its BBQ dinner after the golf day.
You can look forward to a fantastic night of awards and networking…especially if you have entered a few of your best projects in the competition. Last day for Beautification Awards Early Bird entries (lower fee) is May 1, with last day to enter May 8. Judging will take place May 14-17.
For more information and entry forms, contact Jan Veis at the SFV Chapter Office (818) 772-7233 or visit the SFV Chapter Website at: www.clcasfv.org.
State Convention ScheduleLatest Products, Services, Fresh Ideas & Education
SUPPLIER RECEPTION music Sponsor was CANGC, represented by Randy Baldwin (center) of San Marcos Growers. Their music kept the place jumping, and
singer Llana Barron was fantastic.
TORO/IRRITROL rep Mary Zesner is visited by LIS attendee James Taylor of LA Valley College, who is
learning about the latest in smart controllers.
CLCA INSURANCE SOLUTIONS reps Lance Perry, Gina Stanley, Lisa Isom and
Don Huff welcome LIS attendees with insurance and safety information.
SPANISH LANGUAGE SEMINAR, “How to get a C-27 license,” was led by pinch-hitting
presenter Raul Gonzalez of Ewing, with some help from a rep from CSLB. Rigo Lopez of Ewing looks on.
CADRE LANDSCAPE’S Julio Lopez also spoke to the dozen-plus attendees at the Spanish language seminar. The seminar was covered by Univision Spanish language
TV News.
LIS CHAIR Gordon Larson enjoys the Sponsor Reception with fellow committee member Michelle Sykes.
Great job, Gordon. Hats off to you and your entire hard-working committee!
Plan to Attend... Its Almost Here!
2015 Green Industry Hall of Fame Awards• May 2 at Crestmore Manor in Jarupa Valley
Don’t miss the 2015 Green Industry Hall of Fame Awards and Installation set for Saturday, May 2, 6 p.m. at Crestmore
Manor in Jarupa Valley. Dinner is $70 per person.
Green Industry Hall of Fame Mission is…“To honor and preserve the contributions of those exceptional individuals who have served the Green Industry.”
The awards dinner will honor the following 2015 Green Industry achievers:
John Boething – Boething Treeland Farms Don Brinkerhoff – Architect Tom Gentile – Gentile Associates Dave Lannom – Mt. San Antonio College Mark Pedicone –ET Water Susan Sims – Sims Trees Eric Triplett – The Pond Digger Steve Wightman – Retired, Qualcomm Stadium
Crestmore Manor is located at 4600 Crestmore Road, Jurupa Valley, CA 92509. Consider becoming a sponsor! Details can be found at www.GreenIndustryHallofFame.org
The Channel Islands Clipper March 2015 9
Industry News
It’s All
24 hours a day, 365 days a yearAbout YoU
FIND US: www.ewing1.com/california TALK TO US: 800.343.9464
Coming Events, Contact Numbers & More
www.ewing1.com/locations*Rest assured, our experts offer you the products and support you need to get jobs completed on time.
PAVERS | GARDEN & RETAINING WALL BLOCKS | POLYMERIC JOINT SAND | MASONRY ADHESIVE & TOOLS | EDGE RESTRAINTS | SEALANTS, CLEANERS & CHEMICALS
WARNING: Paver installations are contagious. May cause uncontrollable desire in neighbors to stare in amazement and request your services. Possible increase in income may occur.
RichaRd BaRtoLos angeLes / VentuRa teRRitoRy ManageR
CELL: 714-920-4386 [email protected]
susan PoweRswhoLesaLe saLes, ccnP#2914
DirECt: 714-279-3165 / CELL: 714-715-0896 [email protected] [email protected]
1589 N. MaiN StrEEt, OraNgE, Ca 92867800-542-0209 / 714-279-3171 / fax 714-279-3199
www.villagenurseries.com /
Village Nurseries Reaffirms Tesselaar Partnership• Commemorates 20th Anniversary of Flower Carpet Rose
Village Nurseries Wholesale, a specialty grower for landscape professionals,
today joined Anthony Tesselaar Plants in celebrating the 20th anniversary of Flower Carpet® rose in recognition of its exclusive licensing agreement to grow and sell Tesselaar plants to landscape professionals in the tri-state region of California, Arizona and Nevada.
Flower Carpet ground cover roses (or Carpet Roses) are some of the most popular roses available in the world today. They are famous for their long flowering period, easy care, exceptional disease resistance and great drought tolerance in hot climates. A two- or three-year-old-plant provides about 1,000 blooms per bush and can be grown in full sun or partial shade.
The Flower Carpet line offers the ground cover roses with the most All-Deutschland Rosedesignations – the world’s highest
honor for natural disease resistance. ADR trials are conducted at various sites throughout Germany, all of which strictly enforce the ADR’s no-chemical-pesticide trial requirements.
Anthony Tesselaar’s Flower Carpet was the original ‘eco-rose’, requiring no spraying or chemicals to keep it performing. These ground cover roses are so easy-care that anyone can grow them, gardener or not. Over the years Flower Carpet roses have become
known for their vibrant colors, very low-maintenance, compact habit, drought tolerance (once established) and versatility. The Flower Carpet program also introduced the concept that plants should be branded to make them stand out in the market with an easily recognizable consumer package.
For more information, visit http://www.tesselaar.com, or www.villagenurseries.com.
Nitrogen + IronThe nutrients you
need for healthy turfwith deep green color
and satisfied customers.
For more information about BEST® turf nutrition solutions visit us atwww.bestfertilizer.com • 800.832.8891 • Or contact your BEST Distributor
©2015 J. R. Simplot Company. All rights reserved.
Protect Your Profits: How to Fraud-Check Your Small Business Bookkeeping PART 2 By Jonathan Goldhill
Discovering embezzlement is usually a profound emotional experience for a
small business owner and managers because of the working relationships involved, sometimes including family. Protecting your profits, for your own sake and the sake of all of your stakeholders, makes it critical to separate your emotions from
your plan of action. Here are some Do’s and Don’ts for investigating the possibility of fraud in your small business:
Do…• Before doing anything else, back up
all data and store it beyond the reach of all employees, including company management. Even a vague suspicion or rumor of an investigation can result in data destruction, making detection impossible.
• Do not discuss the steps you intend to take with anyone in the company. If nothing is amiss there is no reason to create upset and consternation. If there is something wrong, a full investiga-tion should take place BEFORE any employee is notified.
• Form a plan and execute it methodically.
• Comply with employment laws. Some losses may result not from theft but from lack of training or lazy procedures. Don’t create exposure for an employee to sue you for jeopardizing their job and/or ruining their reputation without proper evidence of wrongdoing.
• Call in law enforcement only after your own formal investigation turns up evidence, and only if you are prepared to prosecute fully.
• Don’t decide on prosecution until you understand the extent of the loss, the evidence and the costs and risks to your small business. In some cases small business owners find they have a better chance of recovering more with a private payback agreement with a miscreant than by a costly prosecution or lawsuit.
• Don’t delay or procrastinate your investigation. If nothing is wrong then you deserve peace of mind. If money is leaking away due to embezzlement, you need to stop the loss right away before it grows any further.
Don’t make these mistakes…• Do not confront the suspect employee prematurely and/or
in a high dudgeon. Separate your emotions from your actions. Avoid communications that could lead to loss of evidence, loss of recovery and possible retaliatory legal action by the employee.
• Do not call law enforcement before conducting your own investigation. Once you know more facts, you may decide it is not in your best interests to involve law enforcement. And, most police forces do not have the means to do financial fraud investi-gations and will tell you to call back when you have evidence.
• Do not do the investigation yourself without qualified profes-sional help. Gathering legally-valid evidence is a specialty. Confronting the embezzler and working toward recovery are delicate processes filled with pitfalls. Do use the investigative services of an experienced Certified Fraud Examiner, and if problems are found, also seek advice from your outside CPA and your attorney.
• Do not reveal or discuss the investigation with select employees or try to recruit their help. This can lead to fallout ranging from depressed morale, to rumors and gossip, to alerting the suspect employee.
Jonathan Goldhill is a business coach, business owner, and a strategic sales and marketing specialist. He has grown several companies from nothing into multi-million-dollar businesses and has been helping entrepreneurs and small- and medium-sized businesses ever since. He can be reached at (818)716-8826, or TheGoldhillGroup.com.
12 March 2015 The Channel Islands Clipper
Business 101
JONATHAN GOLDHILL
CEO The Goldhill Group
19055 Abdera Street / Rowland Heights, CA 91748tel 626.965.5015 / cell 626.715.1757 / fax 866.591.5093
JOHN R. HERNANDEZPublisher / CEO
Feb. 14, 1949-to-
Feb. 17, 2015
There will be a Celebration of Life for Bob on Sunday, March 22at Mil Jugos Restaurant in Santa Ana from 2 p.m.-4 p.m.
Mil Jugos Restaurant is located at: 320 W. 5th Street, Santa Ana.ALL ARE WELCOME!
Memorial donations may be made to the Wade Family, in lieu of flowers. For more information, call Barbara Alvarez at (626) 643-0464.
Green Industry advocate Robert (Bob) Wade, a pillar in our industry and long-time CLCA member, passed away on February 17 after a very short battle with pancreatic cancer. Bob generously gave many years of service to the California Landscape Contractors
Association (CLCA), leaving an indelible mark on our association and the Green Industry as a whole. He will be greatly missed!
In his over 30 years in the Green Industry, Bob earned a number of certifications that included being an EPA Water Sense Irrigation Partner, PLANET Certified Landscape Professional (CLP), IA Certified Landscape Irrigation Auditor (CLIA) and CLCA Certified Water Manager. He was also a member of the Irrigation Association, the American Society of Irrigation Consultants and CLCA. With CLCA, Bob held positions on both the state and local Boards, including Orange County Chapter President (1998), State Director of Chapter Presidents Council South (1999-2000), State Director of Legislation (2005-2009) and State President (2011). He also received CLCA’s Regular Member of the Year Award twice; once in 2005 and again in 2012.
Feb. 14, 1949-to-
Feb. 17, 2015
There will be a Celebration of Life for Bob on Sunday, March 22at Mil Jugos Restaurant in Santa Ana from 2 p.m.-4 p.m.
Mil Jugos Restaurant is located at: 320 W. 5th Street, Santa Ana.ALL ARE WELCOME!
Memorial donations may be made to the Wade Family, in lieu of flowers. For more information, call Barbara Alvarez at (626) 643-0464.
Green Industry advocate Robert (Bob) Wade, a pillar in our industry and long-time CLCA member, passed away on February 17 after a very short battle with pancreatic cancer. Bob generously gave many years of service to the California Landscape Contractors
Association (CLCA), leaving an indelible mark on our association and the Green Industry as a whole. He will be greatly missed!
In his over 30 years in the Green Industry, Bob earned a number of certifications that included being an EPA Water Sense Irrigation Partner, PLANET Certified Landscape Professional (CLP), IA Certified Landscape Irrigation Auditor (CLIA) and CLCA Certified Water Manager. He was also a member of the Irrigation Association, the American Society of Irrigation Consultants and CLCA. With CLCA, Bob held positions on both the state and local Boards, including Orange County Chapter President (1998), State Director of Chapter Presidents Council South (1999-2000), State Director of Legislation (2005-2009) and State President (2011). He also received CLCA’s Regular Member of the Year Award twice; once in 2005 and again in 2012.
14 March 2015 The Channel Islands Clipper
Legislation News
Congressional Intervention Needed to Save the H-2B Program
From American Hort, Referred by Tom Lucas of Performance Nursery
Please contact your two Senators and your Representative in the House and urge them to compel the US Department of Labor
(DOL) to immediately resume processing H-2B prevailing wage determinations and labor certifications. It is essential that you act, even if you have your workers for this year, because you could be impacted next year. Even if you don’t use the program, it hurts the whole green industry when we suffer from labor shortages resulting from bureaucratic dysfunction and visa program chaos.
On March 5, DOL announced that it will no longer accept or process requests for H-2B labor certifications or prevailing wage determinations in light of a March 4 decision in a legal case known as Perez v. Perez, No. 3:14-cv-682 (N.D. Florida, Mar. 4, 2015). This announcement essentially shuts down the H-2B program for any company that has not completed the DOL labor certification process, the first step in seeking H-2B workers.
While the federal district court affirmed that DOL lacks authority to unilaterally issue program rules, the court order in no way required DOL to suspend processing prevailing wage determina-tions or labor certifications as part of its role as a consultant agency to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). Further, the law and DHS regulations require DOL to perform these functions. DOL had provided these services to DHS without a rule making for over 40 years and should continue to do so even in light of the court order.
The March 5 announcement follows a recent Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announcement that first half H-2B cap was reached on January 26 and a December DOL announcement that it will no longer accept employer provided H-2B wage surveys. All these issues threaten the only visa program for seasonal labor for much of our industry. The landscape industry is the single-largest user of H-2B visas. Congress needs to hear from horticulture business owners now!
Please act today. The future of the H-2B program literally depends on Congress hearing from every H-2B user in the country and other horticulture business owners who will feel the ripple effects of labor shortages!
Call your two Senators and Member of Congress and ask them to call DOL and demand that DOL immediately resume processing H-2B prevailing wage determinations and labor certifications. You can reach your Senators and Representative through the U.S. Capitol switchboard at 202-225-3121. Once transferred to Senator or Representative’s office, ask to speak to the staff person who handles immigration or small business issues.
CI MEMBERS INVITED!
Pool Hustlers and Novices… Chalk Up Your Cues!• SFV Pool and Billiards Night Set for March 26
in Simi Valley
Excitement is building in anticipation of the SFV Chapter’s Pool and Billiards Night set for Thursday, March 26 at
Billiard Plaza, 2261 Tapo Street, Simi Valley, CA 93063; (805) 520-0050. Time of the event is 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Answering member’s call for a few more “fun events,” the Events Committee has come up with a great one.
The Pool and Billiards Night also includes a delicious pizza dinner; attendees can start their own tabs at the bar. The event is open to all SFV members and adult friends, as the establish-ment serves adult beverages.
You don’t have to be a Minnesota Fats to enjoy yourself that evening, as there will be players at all levels of pool hall acumen. Bring a friend, a coworker or a potential member and let them join in on the fun as well.
In addition to pool and billiards, Billiard Plaza also offers darts and ping pong. The price for the event is $20 per person. RSVP to Jan at the SFV Chapter Office (818) 772-7233. See you there.
a delicious pizza dinner;
friends, as the establish-
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The Channel Islands Clipper March 2015 15
WATER NEWS UPDATE
(3) Required urban water suppliers to activate their water shortage contingency plans to a level where outdoor, potable water irrigation restrictions are mandatory. Water suppliers can ask for approval of an alternate plan that involves an allocation-based rate structure. Only two such plans have been approved to date.
These emergency regulations would have expired on April 25th if the water board had not readopted them for an additional 270 days.
Effective date of new rule. The Office of Administrative Law has 10 days to approve the regulations. Approval is expected, and the regulations go into effect immediately thereafter. Water agencies have 45 days to comply with the two-day-per-week limit or amend their water shortage contingency plans to require a different limit.
Clarifying terminology regarding not irrigating turf or orna-mental landscapes during and 48 hours following measurable rainfall. CLCA sought a definition of “measurable rainfall.” After all, there are slight differences between rainfall, drizzle, mist or fog. The board’s staff felt this determination should be “an exercise in sound judgment,” i.e. common sense, rather than a precise dividing line.
Landscape contractors should keep in mind that this prohibition is likely to be enforced like the current runoff prohibition. Local governments and water suppliers, although they have the authority to levy $500 fines, are preferring to warn and educate more than fine. Property owners cited and fined will likely be flagrant, repeat offenders.
Landscape and turf watering. The emergency regulation will limit outdoor irrigation with potable water to two days a week for urban water suppliers that do not already have limits on the number of days per week. Some of these water suppliers intend to amend their water shortage contingency plans to allow for more than two days a week of irrigation prior to the new rule going into effect in early May.
Urban water suppliers with approved alternate plans, will continue to be exempt from the requirement. Landscape contractors should keep informed as to what day of the week restrictions, if any, water agencies will require.
Small water agencies must comply. The runoff, water feature, and irrigation during and after rainfall provisions apply throughout the state, regardless of whether the local water is small or large.
Small distributors of public water supply (those with 3,000 or fewer service connections) have different rules when it comes to other mandatory conservation measures. Under the current regula-tion, adopted last summer, small distributors can choose between limiting landscape irrigation with potable water to no more than two days per week or implementing “another mandatory conser-vation measure or measures intended to achieve a comparable reduction in water consumption by the persons it serves relative to the amount consumed in 2013.” The new rule specifies that these mandatory measures must be intended to achieve a 20 percent reduction relative to the amount consumed in 2013.
Information regarding rain sensors that will shut off irrigation during and for 48 hours after it rains can be found online at CLCA.org Supplier/Material Search.
Effect on business. This is a great opportunity to connect with and educate customers…current and past. The rainfall regula-tion should put a sharp focus on wireless rain sensors capable of shutting off the irrigation system for 48 hours. Many property owners will not be happy with the look of their cool season turfgrass under a two-day-a-week irrigation regimen. Maybe they will be ready for a landscape renovation in the coming months? And what about other irrigation upgrades to take care of that pesky runoff problem? That prohibition is still in force!
We predict that public interest in water-efficient landscaping will rise to a crescendo this year and continue as long as this drought lasts. How can you cater to this interest?
CLCA Water News Update, continued from page 2
16 March 2015 The Channel Islands Clipper
Paying It Forward
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Operation Helping Hand – A Better Solution By Henry Buder, CLT/CLP/QWEL, Henry Buder’s Landscape Restoration
We’ve all been in the sprinkler store that has contractors, and non-contractors at
the counter. Or you’re in the line at the dump, and a truck goes by with a nice sign on the side but no license number. People are getting pretty brave, as advertising without a license is against the law.
A lot of contractors get mad when they see a non-contractor getting the same parts and
the same price as we are, or when they see a truck with bright, bold signs without a license number. There are ways to get back at these guys, like turning them in to Contractors State License Board, or setting up a sting operation, to stop them from operating without a license.
Let’s face it, most of us started without a license. I know in my case I operated for a year while I was getting my license. I bet some people were thrown into the business by their fathers, and don’t know how to go about it.
This is where the other side of the coin comes into it, instead of lashing out, maybe reaching out is a better solution.
CLCA has a program called Operation Helping Hand. A handful of seasoned CLCA members have agreed to help if someone should call CLCA and ask about getting a license. Our phone numbers are given to the inquirer in the area of the caller, and we answer their questions about getting a contractor license. A lot of questions are about their status with the CSLB for currently working without a license, and I tell them that the Board will welcome them with open arms if they apply for a license. The Contractor Board will count the experience as part of the qualifying condition to have five years’ experience as a supervisor or foreman. Right on the CLCA web page under Careers is a 50-page Blueprint to Getting a Contractors License with step-by-step how-to’s, phone numbers, schedules, requirements, fees, timelines and more.
Doesn’t that sound like a more human approach? And who knows, we may discover future CLCA leaders, people who can make a difference by getting some help early and paying it forward.
Next time, ask the question, “Have you ever thought about getting your contractor license?” and then let them know you would be willing to help. Download the blueprint from the CLCA.org website and be prepared to hand out a copy if they are interested. No intimidation, just offer a helping hand. – Henry Buder
HENRY BUDERHenry Buder’s
Landscape Restoration
The Channel Islands Clipper March 2015 17
State CLCA News
What Are Today’s Dirty Dozen Tax Scams? From an article by Lindquist LLP, Certified Public Accountants
Taxpayers are ultimately responsible for the information on their personal tax
returns. So intentional or inadvertent partic-ipation in one of these 2015 “Dirty Dozen” schemes could win you an IRS investigation, penalties, interest charges and even a trip to federal prison. Here’s a recap of the pitfalls that honest taxpayers should try to avoid:
1. Phone Scams. Aggressive and threatening phone calls by criminals impersonating IRS agents remain an ongoing threat to taxpayers. Con artists threaten police arrest, deportation, license revocation and other things.
2. Phishing. Be on guard against fake emails or websites looking to steal personal infor-mation. The IRS won’t send you an email about a bill or refund out of the blue.
3. Identity Theft. Watch out for identity theft, especially around tax time. The IRS continues to aggressively pursue criminals that file fraudulent returns using another person’s Social Security number.
4. Return Preparer Fraud. Watch out for dishonest preparers who set up shop each filing season to perpetrate refund fraud, identity theft and other scams.
5. Offshore Tax Avoidance. There has been a recent string of successful enforce-ment actions against offshore tax cheats and the financial organizations that help them. The IRS offers the Offshore Voluntary Disclosure Program to help people get their taxes in order.
6. Inflated Refund Claims. Always be wary of anyone who asks you to sign a blank return, promises a big refund before looking at your records or charges fees based on a percentage of the refund.
7. Fake Charities. Watch out for groups masquerading as charitable organizations to attract donations from unsuspecting contributors. The IRS website has the tools taxpayers need to check out the status of charitable organizations.
8. Hiding Income with Fake Documents. Hiding taxable income by filing false Form 1099s or other fake documents is a scam that taxpayers should always avoid and guard against.
9. Abusive Tax Shelters. Taxpayers should avoid using abusive tax structures to avoid paying taxes. The IRS is committed to stopping complex tax avoidance schemes and the people who create and sell them.
10. Falsifying Income to Claim Credits. Taxpayers should avoid inventing income to erroneously claim tax credits. Taxpayers are sometimes talked into doing this by scam artists.
11. Excessive Claims for Fuel Tax Credits. The fuel tax credit is generally limited to off-highway business use, including use in farming. Consequently, the credit is not available to most taxpayers.
12. Frivolous Tax Arguments. Taxpayers should avoid using frivolous tax arguments to avoid paying their taxes. The penalty for filing a frivolous tax return is $5,000.
Mind Your Money
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CLCA and Flyers Energy Announce Fuel Discount Program
CLCA has partnered with commercial fuel distributor Flyers Energy (www.4flyers.com) to offer a full service commercial
fuel discount program to its members! This innovative program offers discounts of 2-5 cents per gallon at over 240,000 gas stations throughout the United States. In addition program partici-pants will receive access to the Fleet Management System that helps members control costs, set limits on fuel services, and streamline reporting.
“We would like to extend an invitation to all CLCA members to join the thousands of successful companies who have made the
choice to better manage their fuel program with Flyers Energy,” said Nichol Warden, Flyers Fleet Management Consultant. “We pride ourselves in working to earn our clients’ business and would like to prove it. Please accept our offer of a complimentary, no obligation, fuel cost analysis, regardless of who may be your current fuel provider,” Nichol added.
Flyers Fleet – On the VOYAGER Network: The Flyers Fleet Card works at more than 230,000 locations, including wide accep-tance by major fuel retailers - Chevron, BP, Circle K, CITGO, EXXON, Mobil, Conoco, Phillips 66, Shell, Texaco, Valero and
hundreds more brands. NO FEES.
Flyers CFN – On the CFN and FleetWide Networks: Our CFN card has 4,000 sites, and can be restricted to only access unattended and cardlocks with high-flow pumps and a distraction-free environment and maximum fuel security. Option: 40,000 retail fuelman locations nationwide through FleetWide. NO FEES.
To get started, please call Nichol Warden at (530) 885-0401 ext. 2260 or send an email to [email protected] for more information about the fuel discount program. CLCA members are encouraged to start saving money by taking advantage of this CLCA members-only program right away. Don’t forget to ask Nichol how you can earn a free $50 fuel card.
18 March 2015 The Channel Islands Clipper
Safety First!
Otto-090310-horiz.indd 1 3/10/09 1:58:12 PM
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Insights Into Tree Care Accidents From GreenIndustryPro.com
The Tree Care Industry Association (TCIA) reviewed 126 occupational tree care accidents reported by the media, OSHA
and industry colleagues in 2014. Of these, 81 were fatal. The median age of the victim for all incidents was 42. Here are several factors or situations present in many of these accidents:
• Mondays and Fridays are the worst. Further analysis revealed trends seen in previous years. For instance, Monday is still statistically the most dangerous day of the week for tree care professionals, with Friday ranking second. “It is reason-able to assume that so-called ‘critical error’ behaviors – such as mind-not-on-task or eyes-not-on-task – are more prevalent on these days,” says Peter Gerstenberger, TCIA’s senior advisor for safety, standards and compliance.
• No professional affiliation. A more influential factor, however, is association membership. A disproportionate number of these incidents were experienced by arborists working for companies who are not members of TCIA. “Tree care companies with no professional affiliation, such as TCIA, may not have the resources or motives to incorporate safety training on the jobsite,” explains Gerstenberger. “Furthermore, TCIA has found ignorance or lack of training to be a factor in many of these incidents.”
• Many fatal incidents are preventable. For example, in eight of the reported 12 electrocution incidents, plus an electric shock/burn incident, the victims were using aluminum ladders and/or conductive tools at the time of the incident. In eight of the 25 falls, the victims were clearly not secured. In palm trimming
deaths, the climbers were secured to the trunk below the frond skirts, a technique that has been widely publicized for years as being fraught with risk.
“It seems clear to us that the practitioners most in need of improved knowledge and training are also the least inclined to seek out training opportunities,” says Gerstenberger. “As such, it is our responsibility as an associ-ation and industry to facilitate safety training opportunities for tree care professionals who need it the most.”
The Arborist Safety Training Institute (ASTI), launched by the Tree Care Industry Association Foundation (TCIAF), seeks to fulfill this responsibility by providing quality, local and affordable safety training to working arborists. ASTI will provide grants for safety training to minimize consequent deaths and injuries, and promote overall workforce safety that is critical for the tree care industry. Learn more about ASTI at TCIA.org/Foundation/ASTI.
Call Our Advertisers First!Best/Simplot .............................................................................. 9
Birch Equipment Finance ........................................................19
Coastline Equipment .............................. 4, 10, 11, Back Cover
Cragoe Pest Services ................................................................19
El Dorado Communications, Inc. ...........................................12
Ewing Irrigation Products ..................................................9, 16
Gro-Power ..............................................................................15
Kellogg Garden Products .........................................................19
Landscape Contractors Insurance Services ...............................14
Olson Irrigation Systems .........................................................15
Otto & Sons Nursery .............................................................18
Pacific Sod ...............................................................................12
Performance Nursery Inc. .......................................................14
Quinn Company .....................................................................17
Santa Barbara Stone & Masonry, Inc. .................................... 3
Smith Pipe & Supply ..............................................................15
Southland Sod ..........................................................................19
Village Nurseries ....................................................................... 9
The Channel Islands Clipper March 2015 19
Advertising Index
CONSTRUCTIONLANDSCAPE
Live Auction Items
LANDSCAPE & VALLEY CREST COMPANIES
NEWPORT BEACH COUNTRY CLUB
All profits go to Landscape Architecture, Horticulture & Landscape Irrigation Science Student Scholarships.
CLIC / CLASS FUND PRESENTSThe 33rd Annual Francis "Sully" Sullivan Memorial
Benefitting California Landscape Architecture Student Scholarships
Monday June 15, 2015 at 11:30 am
1600 E. Coast Highway, Newport Beach, CA 92660
All profits go to Landscape Architecture, Horticulture & Landscape Irrigation Science Student Scholarships.
Join the Southern California green industry's leading landscape architects, contractors, suppliers and manufacturers in the year's largest fundraiser for student scholarships. Come for a day of fun, fellowship and golf. Shotgun
format, fun for all no matter what your skill level may be. Individual trophies for men and women to be awarded at the dinner banquet.
SPONSORS TO DATE:Tournament Co-Founder Sponsorship: CALIFORNIA LANDSCAPE & IRRIGATION COUNCIL Dinner Sponsor: PARK WEST LANDSCAPE & VALLEYCREST COMPANIES Trophy Sponsor: Cocktail Hour Sponsor:Lunch Sponsor: Beverage Sponsor:Putting Contest Sponsor: MISSION LANDSCAPE COMPANIESGrand Slam Sponsor: Masters Sponsor: U.S. Open Sponsor: British Open Sponsor: LAND CONCERNP.G.A. Sponsor: Media Sponsor:
“CLASS Fund is a 501 (c) (3) Non-profit Corporation” For Additional Information Please Contact:Andy Bowden, [email protected]
Marty McPhee, [email protected] Phillipy, [email protected]
For More Information: www.classfund.org
Newport Beach Country Club
Golf Tournament
