ALCA Influence JulAug issue

The ALCA INFLUENCE

Health Care Reform Update

Marketing Your Landscape Business

PRSRT STDU

.S. POSTA

GE

PAID

PERMIT N

O. 2840

SAC

RAM

ENTO

, CA

A R I Z O N A L A N D S C A P E C O N T R A C T O R S ’ A S S O C I A T I O N

July/August 2011

Cover Photo: Gothic Grounds Management

The ALCA INFLUENCE

A R I Z O N A L A N D S C A P E C O N T R A C TO R S ’ A S S O C I AT I O N

July/August 2011

3 July/August 2011 T THE ALCA INFLUENCE

TABLE OF CONTENTS

President’s Message ..............................................................4

CEO Message.....................................................................6

New Members ....................................................................8

Calendar ............................................................................8

ALCA Sponsors ....................................................................8

Member Updates ...............................................................10

ACLP Schedule ..................................................................11

ALCA 2010 Awards ...........................................................12

ALCA Profile: Evergreen Turf .................................................14

ALCA Profile: Horizon Distributors, Inc. ...................................15

Arbor Day .........................................................................16

Marketing Your Landscape Business .......................................17

ALCA Bulletin Board ............................................................18

ALCA Member Mixers .........................................................20

ALCA Mini Trade Show .......................................................21

Resource Guide .................................................................22

2011 BOARD OF DIRECTORSPresidentWill PereiraBlueStar Resort & Golf

President ElectMatthew JohnsonAsset Landscaping

Vice PresidentTony AcostaXeriscapes Unlimited, Inc.

SecretaryKim KleskiNeill-Vecchia & Associates

TreasurerSteve ShieldsHill & Usher Insurance & Surety

Chief Executive OfficerJudy [email protected]

PUBLICATIONAdvertisingAssociation Outsource Services, Inc.(916) 990-9999www.aosinc.biz

DesignLori Mattas

PrintingCopeland Printing

Arizona Landscape Contractors’ Association

5425 E Bell Road, Suite 105Scottsdale, Arizona 85254Phone: 602-626-7091Fax: 602-626-7590www.azlca.com

The ALCA Influence is the official publication of the Arizona Landscape Contractors’ Association. ALCA and The ALCA Influence assume no responsibility for the statements or opinions appearing in articles under an author’s name. The services of an attorney or accountant should be sought in legal and tax matters. For editorial information, contact the Arizona Landscape Contractors Association, 5425 E. Bell Road, Suite 105, Scottsdale, Arizona 85254; telephone, (602) 626-7091; facsimile, (602) 626-7590; e-mail, [email protected].

4

PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE

As you may or may not be aware, the ALCA Board of Directors has recently adopted a set of standards for landscape maintenance titled Sustainable Landscape Management: Standards for Landscape Care in the

Desert Southwest. As a Board, we are thrilled to be part of such a relevant industry related movement. We hope to be trendsetters nationally by putting all of our weight behind these standards.

I wanted to offer a brief reminder about why we, that is the ALCA Board, decided to get behind the SLM guide. Among other benefits, our goals in adopt-ing these standards were primarily twofold: 1. Raise the bar in the industry by establishing a set of standards by which qualified maintenance can be judged and 2. Provide value to existing ALCA member contractors and provide a value

Will Pereira2011 ALCA President

President’s Message proposition to prospective new ALCA members to join our ranks. I think we can all agree that this guide and the sustainable movement in general, are definitely achieving the former goal. We’re having wild success in getting our message out to the masses and having these standards endorsed by almost everyone we talk to. As an example of this, ALCA has secured partnerships with and endorse-ments from the American Society of Landscape Architects – Arizona Chapter (ASLA), Building Owners and Managers Association of Greater Phoenix (BOMA), Arizona Association of Com-munity Managers (AACM) and Arizona Nursery Association (ANA).

These endorsements and partnerships increase the ability of our members to earn new work. In other words, members of the aforementioned asso-ciations have agreed to hire only ALCA member contractors. As a Board, we see this as a major win for our membership. In a time of economic turmoil, we are providing our members with a differentiating characteristic in comparison to non-ALCA member contractors. Our overarching goal as a Board is to represent the interests of the landscaping industry in Arizona. Without listing the various bullet points in our mission statement, it is our duty to represent the landscaping and green industries to the best of our abilities. We feel that forming these alliances is a key part of that representation.

Where I realize it isn’t our role to create barriers to entry for contractors, we do have to provide value to our members. In my opinion, when our members hear that their Board of Directors is leveling the field by partnering with organizations such as AACM and BOMA in an effort to limit competition, our contractor members appreciate that we are keeping their best interests in mind. Perhaps if larger barriers to entry existed in our industry, we wouldn’t have to compete with people that believe that if they can push a mower, they can compete with qualified contractors. There are many industries with such high barriers to entry that earning your way into these industries carries with it some panache. On the flip side of that coin, because there are so few barriers to get into the landscaping industry, there is a stigma of sorts associated with our profession. I do believe that part of our responsibility as a Board of Directors is to change that stigma and make people realize that there is a great deal of science as well as pride behind what we do. We need to change the sentiment that being a landscape contractor involves simply pushing a mower. We need to change this stigma, and until we do, as a Board, our work will never be finished.

Our members play a role in this as well. As an ALCA member contractor, there is a tacit or unspo-ken agreement that you will represent the industry to the best of your ability. Doing so further enforces the sustainable movement. I for one am proud to be a landscape contractor. Show your pride as ALCA member contractors by adopting these standards, holding your fellow contractors accountable, and doing your part to change the industry. Will Pereira, ALCA President

Bingham EquipmEnt COmpanY, thE trustEd Brand Of confidence since 1955 • BinghamEquipment.com

For 50+ years the Bingham Companies have been delivering the power to help you succeed with quality products and services from a convenient location. Stop by one of our dealerships today and let

us show you how “we are working hard to keep you working.”

1655 S Country Club Dr.

Mesa(480) 619-5575

710 N. 195th Ave., Jackrabbit Trail

Buckeye(623) 505-9855

815 W. HWY 84

Casa Grande(520) 233-7014

3214 E. Gila Ridge RD. Bld. #1

Yuma(928) 304-7132

Bobcat of Phoenix21828 N. 7th Street

Phoenix(623) 505-9845

2694 Union Drive

Cottonwood (928) 304-7133

1320 S. Geronimo

Parker(928) 304-7131

5225 N. Casa Grande Hwy.

Tucson(520) 233-7016

3400 4x4• 24.8 Gas or 32 HP Diesel

Liquid-Cooled Engine

• 30 mph Top Travel Speed

• 9 Gal. Fuel Tank Capacity

• 2-Range Transmission

BOBCAT 4x4

GREAT LOW RATEFINANCING GOING

ON NOW ATBINGHAM EQUIPMENT

COMPANY!

THE ALCA INFLUENCE T July/August 2011

EVERYTHING FOR THE OUTDOOR KITCHEN.

The outdoors is our habitat. It’s also our specialty - we’re experts at it.

And while the world’s greatest grill will always be our fl agship, we’ve

applied the Lynx philosophy and outstanding workmanship to the whole

collection of outdoor products and accessories, from refrigerators to

warming drawers.

Lynx’s complete line of outdoor kitchen products combines advanced

proprietary technologies and refi ned features that you can use to design

your own outdoor cooking center.

Visit the Trade Resources section of our website for all of the information

you will need for planning and installing our products.

1-888-879-2322www.lynxgrills.com

4183-Lynx_Ad_1_2011.indd 1 1/26/11 1:19 PM

6

CEO’S MESSAGE

F or the past few years, companies have been practicing and implementing “Lean Management”. Business owners and managers have been saying “No” a thou-

sand times until there is nothing left to cut or streamline. So now what do we do?

At this year’s Executive Forum, the Professional Landcare Network (PLANET) focused on innovation and how compa-nies must learn to innovate and continuously adapt to change in order to survive and even grow in this economy. According to PLANET’s Crystal Ball Report: Innovate (or Die): How Green Industry Companies Will Thrive in the New Economy, “Innovation is the very best way for many companies in the green industry to differentiate themselves, increase their profits, and protect their futures.”

Let’s examine the fall of Blockbuster. I was a member of Blockbuster Video for many, many years where I would visit the local video store and rent movies to enjoy at home. Blockbuster had more stores than any other company in the business. It was a brilliant, well-run and profitable business for nearly 30 years. Several years ago, a newly established company called Netflix approached Blockbuster with a proposal for a joint effort to take their business online. The story is told by Netflix that

“They (Blockbuster) just about laughed us out of their office.” Blockbuster recently filed for bankruptcy after failing to adapt its storefront model to online technology pioneered by its rivals.

It is evident in this business atmosphere that just because you have done well in the past, you may not continue that suc-cess without innovative actions in this world of rapid change. The products, services and operational processes that may have once created an advantage are quickly being matched or improved on by the competition.

The greatest advantage of embracing innovation is that instead of reacting and scrambling to keep up with the inevi-table changes, you will discover ways to make your company stronger and more resilient.

For more information on innovation and examples of landscape companies’ success stories, you may order a copy of the “Innovate (or Die)” Crystal Ball Report from the online PLANET Bookstore or call 800-293-5542. If you are not a member of PLANET, you may place an order with ALCA to receive the discounted price.

Respectfully Submitted,Judy Gausman, CEO

CEO’s MessageInnovate or Die

Judy GausmanALCA CEO

THE ALCA INFLUENCE T July/August 2011

7 July/August 2011 T THE ALCA INFLUENCE

Find out more at www.westernsod.com800/832-8873

There’s a new grass in Town!

• Extreme salt tolerance• Advanced striping ability• Shorter dormancy period• Shiny exceptionally dark green color• Versatile mowing heights from ¼” – 1”• Superior low light intensity tolerance• Uses 66% less nitrogen than bermuda• Excellent drought and wear tolerance

Platinum t.e. now available!

less waTer + less FerTilizer = More $ in your pockeTand a “greener” grass for the environment

From the growers of bobsod—the Official Turf of the D-backs and Chase Field

8

ALCA BULLETIN BOARD

July9 ACLP Workshop -

Pesticides & Calibrations13 ACLP Workshop

- Pesticides & Calibrations (English and Spanish Versions)

16 ACLP Workshop - Pesticides & Calibrations

20 Phoenix Member Mixer - Sponsored by Midway Chevrolet

25-26 PLANET Legislative on the Hill

29-30 Basic Landscape Design for Contractors Workshop

August6 ACLP Workshop -

Irrigation10 ACLP Workshop -

Irrigation12 SHADE Conference13 ACLP Workshop -

Irrigation17 Phoenix Member Mixer -

Sponsored by All Season Wholesale Growers / Muck Truck Distributors

18 Board of Trustees Meeting19-20 ALCA Summer Board

Planning Meeting

September10 ACLP Workshop - Soils

& Fertilizers / Water Management

14 ACLP Workshop - Soils & Fertilizers / Water Management

17 ACLP Workshop - Soils & Fertilizers / Water Management

21 Phoenix Mini Trade Show / New Member Recruitment

Arizona Backyard ConceptsDave Cooper19120 N Pima RdScottsdale, AZ 85255Phone: 480-313-2388Fax: 480-423-2302Email: [email protected]

B2B CFOChris Buls22324 N 36th WayPhoenix, AZ 85050Phone: 480-308-0779Email: [email protected]

Hajoca CorporationJon Perkins4330 N 43rd Ave, Ste BPhoenix, AZ 85031Phone: 623-245-5000Fax: 623-245-5050Email: [email protected]

New York Life Insurance, Co.Rocky Campbell14850 N Scottsdale Rd, Ste 400Scottsdale, AZ 85254Phone: 480-840-2150Email: [email protected]

Palm SquadTravis Howey1559 E 2nd PlMesa, AZ 85203Phone: 480-518-3405Email: [email protected]

Sun Country Truck EquipmentJim McNicol4245 E Superior AvePhoenix, AZ 85040Phone: 602-438-4956Fax: 602-438-4947Email: [email protected]

Valley View LandscapingKevin Lott4039 W Earhart WayChandler, AZ 85226Phone: 480-785-2599Fax: 480-785-2512Email: [email protected]

Platinum SponsorsDIRT

DLC Resources, Inc.Evergreen Turf, Inc.

Ewing Irrigation ProductsHorizon Distribution Inc.

Hunter Industries/FX LuminaireJohn Deere LandscapesRain Bird Corporation

The Toro Company/Irritrol

Gold SponsorsHill & Usher Insurance & Surety

Vista Professional Outdoor Lighting

Silver SponsorsWest Coast Turf

New Members

Special Thank You to our 2011

ALCA Sponsors

2011Calendar of Events

THE ALCA INFLUENCE T July/August 2011

9 July/August 2011 T THE ALCA INFLUENCE

Soil Building Bio Fertilizers Easy To Spray On or Use in

Automatic Injector Systems

Solutions Inc.

Buffers Harmful Salt and Cleans Mineral Deposits from Irrigation Systems.

● Promote Green Growth & Deep Roots ● ● Natural Alternative to Mineral Acids ●

● Improve Soil Fertility ● University Tested ●

CALL TODAY: 602-BIO-FEED www.biofeedsolutions.com

2 4 6 - 3 3 3 3

MEMBER UPDATES

10

ProQual Landscaping and Horizon Distributors Team Up for Irrigation EfficiencyToro® Precision™ Series Spray Nozzles add accuracy; reduce project water usage by 20 percent

Working with their local Horizon Distributors rep and more than 4,000 new sprinkler nozzles, ProQual Landscaping of Tempe, Arizona recently completed a sophisticated, large-scale irrigation upgrade at a Phoenix-area apartment complex which has translated into tremendous water savings of more than 20 percent.

“Our irrigation team went in to assess the situation, and we found a mismatched system,” said Scott Needham, general manager of ProQual. “There were pressure problems and spotty coverage - some areas were green and others weren’t. The landscape just didn’t look good.”

ProQual’s irrigation technicians conducted a water audit and immediately saw the need to replace the mismatched sprinklers with a consistent, efficient system. Scott approached Horizon with the challenge, and they decided to install the Toro® Precision™ Series Spray Nozzles to try and solve the problem.

One of the most significant breakthroughs in the sprinkler category in 60 years, the Toro Precision™ Series Spray Nozzles are designed to distribute water more slowly and evenly at a 1”/hour precipitation rate, which is much less than traditional spray nozzles.

Using patented H2O chip technology — and no moving parts — each Precision Series Spray Nozzle creates one or more high-frequency oscillating streams to achieve the desired patterns. The Precision Series Spray technology also appealed to ProQual because the nozzles are interchangeable and easily fit onto either male or female threaded sprinkler heads.

“This project was a total retrofit, but the different contractors before us had used every brand of sprinklers somewhere on the system,” Scott said. “By being able to utilize those existing heads with the new nozzles, it saved a lot of time and money. That was part of Horizon’s recommendation, and it really helped,”

“This was an exciting project for all of us,” agreed Dan Puthuff, construction channel manager, Horizon Distributors. “At Horizon, we take pride in being able to recommend and provide customized solutions for our clients’ projects. The team at ProQual identified the need, and we were glad to be able to help them achieve these outstanding results.”

Once the new irrigation system was up and running, the results were immediate and significant. Early estimates indicate that the new sprinklers are reducing water usage at the apartment site by about 20 percent.

“The new sprinklers are much more efficient, so there’s a lot less water being used,” Scott said, who also noted the visible improvement in the landscape. “In just 90 days, there was a huge improvement in the way the landscape looked. We have before-and-after pictures of the project, and it’s hard to believe you’re looking at the same place.”

Scott’s relationship with Horizon goes back to 2004, when ProQual was founded. Now one of the leading landscape companies in the Phoenix area – with responsibilities for more than 700 acres of commercial and residential property – ProQual relies on Horizon for many different products and services, especially in irrigation.

“Horizon has definitely been a good partner,” Scott said. “They’re the specialists, and with their knowledge and support, they know how to create win-win situations.”

For more information about Toro Precision™ Series Spray Nozzles or other water-saving products, please visit your local Horizon Distributors location, or visit www.horizononline.com.

Ewing First to Unveil New Water Efficient Nozzle from Rain Bird

Ewing announces its exclusive launch of the Rain Bird High Efficiency Variable Arc Nozzle (HE-VAN), a new irrigation product designed to help achieve water efficiency in landscapes and green spaces.

The HE-VAN offers higher distribution uniformity and a lower scheduling coefficient, providing even coverage and shorter run times when compared to traditional VAN or fixed arc nozzles.

“It’s our responsibility to help landscape and irrigation professionals grow their businesses through the adoption and wise use of water-efficient technologies,” said Warren Gorowitz, vice president of sustainability and conservation for Ewing. “The HE-VAN represents an opportunity to offer our customers new choices and flexibility when designing, installing and maintaining water-efficient green spaces.”

The HE-VAN improves close-in watering, minimizes overspray and reduces overall water usage. This variable arc nozzle is easy to adjust and offers maximum design flexibility. Available in 12’ – 15’ radii during its launch phase, the HE-VAN will be initially distributed in California, Texas, Florida and the Southeast. The HE-VAN is a welcomed addition to Ewing’s expansive water efficient product offering.

The HE-VAN meets the distribution uniformity and matched precipitation rate requirements for both the California AB 1881 and the Environmental Protection Agency’s WaterSense Single Family New Homes Specification.

For more information on the HE-VAN, log on to www.rainbird.com/hevan or visit Rain Bird’s mobile site at www.rainbird.com/m/hevan.

Mesa Community College Urban Horticulture Program is moving forward with new Program Director

Peter Conden is the new program director of MCC’s Urban Horticulture and Agribusiness program. Peter comes from a 25 year career in Ornamental Horticulture, from greenhouse manager/propagator to owning a landscape design/build business. The entire program is being re-vamped to educate students in the most current trends and technologies in the green industry. Classes are hands-on, so students should be ready to get dirty!

Students can earn an AAS degree or one of two certificates in Landscaping. Contact Peter for information or visit http://www.mesacc.edu/dept/applied/agribusiness/ for more information. Also, stay tuned for exciting changes to the Agribusiness AAS degree. Here are the Fall 2011 course offerings, register today:

Fall Semester (classes begin Aug. 20): • AGS164 Plant Growth and Development –Peter Conden• AGS182 Gardening Practices and Techniques –Heather Welch• AGB132 Agribusiness Accounting and Office Management –Ray Gless/Bruce Watkins

• AGB139 Agribusiness Computer Operations –Ray Gless• AGL181 Landscape Construction Techniques –Ford Doran• AGL189 Landscape Design I –Isabel Hardesty• AGL282 Landscape Computer Aided Design (CAD) –Jeff Prince

• AGS168 Grounds Equipment Management –Claud Cluff• AGS183 Urban Plant Identification and Use –George Hull• AGS187 Indoor Foliage Plants –Michelle Daly• AGS261 Soil Fertility And Management –Vicki Normandin• AGS284 Lawn and Turf Care –Ed Shelton

Michael Rockwell, co-owner of Azul-Verde Design Group Inc. and ALCA’s CEO, Judy Gausman promoted the Sustainable Landscape Management; Standards for Landscape Care in the Desert Southwest at the celebration of Earth Day in Cave Creek.

THE ALCA INFLUENCE T July/August 2011

11 July/August 2011 T THE ALCA INFLUENCE

ACLP

Arizona Certified Landscape Professional Program (ACLP)Please call the ALCA office to register at 602-626-7091 or download the registration form at www.azlca.com.

Pesticides & Calibration WorkshopJuly 9, 2011 Ewing Irrigation – 3441 E Harbour Dr, PhoenixJuly 13, 2011 Maricopa Ag Center, 37860 W Smith-Enke Rd, Maricopa English Version (8:00 am – 12:30 pm) Spanish Version (1:00 pm – 5 pm)July 16, 2011 Pima Community College, Bldg CC, Amethyst

Community Room, 1255 N Stone Ave, Tucson

What is it anyway?Through this course, attendees will learn how to work safely and effectively with pesticides in the landscape industry.

What will we learn and do? • Gather health, safety, and pesticide use information from product labels.• Mix, load, and apply pesticides so that the product is applied correctly and evenly.• Apply pesticides in a manner that reduces the risk of contamination to

ourselves, other people, animals, and the environment.• Prevent, recognize, and respond to pesticide-related emergencies.• Properly calibrate pesticide application equipment.• Follow local laws and regulations regarding pesticide application recordkeeping

and notification.

Are there CEU’s available for attending this workshop?Yes. You will receive 3 CEU’s for applicator license through the AZ Dept of Ag and 3 CEU’s from the OPM.

Is this workshop available in Spanish?Yes. If there is enough interest, a Spanish version of the workshop will be held on Wednesday, July 13 at Maricopa Ag Center beginning at 1 pm and ending at 5 pm.

Irrigation WorkshopAugust 6, 2011 Ewing Irrigation – 3441 E Harbour Dr, PhoenixAugust 10, 2011 Maricopa Ag Center, 37860 W Smith-Enke Rd, MaricopaAugust 13, 2011 Pima Community College, Bldg CC, Amethyst Community

Room, 1255 N Stone Ave, Tucson

What is it anyway?Students attending this course will learn the basics of an irrigation system and several practical methods of water management.  

What will we learn and do? • Common irrigation components.• Basic Hydraulics.• Calculate precipitation rates.• Program an irrigation controller.• Installation techniques.• Drip irrigation.• Smart controllers.• Water Management tools

Are there CEU’s available for attending this workshop? Yes. You will receive 3 CEU’s for the Irrigation Association. 

Instructors: Shannon Scott – Pesticides & Calibrations and Irrigation Training Director – AAA Landscape

Shannon Scott is a Tucson native but has lived in Phoenix since 1990. He has 35 years of experience in the landscape industry, in which 33 of them have been with AAA Landscape. Shannon holds

certifications in ACLP, OPM and is a certified arborist. His time in the industry has been split between landscape management, landscape construction and arbor care. He is currently the Director of Education at AAA Landscape but considers himself a tree hugger first and forever.

Jennifer Weber – Pesticides & Calibration, Arizona Department of AgricultureJennifer Weber is a pesticide safety field consultant with the Arizona Department of

Agriculture’s, Ag Consultation and Training Program. She works directly with growers and agricultural employees to assist them with the federal Worker Protection Standard and state pesticide laws and regulations. She provides pesticide safety information during site visits and training programs and develops educational workshops and resources to further extend pesticide safety information to the agricultural community. Ms. Weber graduated from California Polytechnic State University in San Luis Obispo with a bachelor’s degree in dairy science and later earned a master’s degree in Multicultural and Bilingual Education from California State University, Sacramento. Her thesis was on pesticide applicator exam formats and testing strategies.

Doug Donahue – Irrigation, Ewing IrrigationAs a residential and commercial sales representative for Ewing,

Doug Donahue is responsible for providing irrigation supplies and solutions to large commercial irrigation and landscape contractors and municipalities. Doug earned a Bachelor of Arts in Education at

Arizona State University and is Ewing’s liaison for the Arizona Landscape Contractors’ Association. Doug has 30 years of industry experience. He spent 17 years with Rain Bird as a District Manager in the Midwest and Contractor Account Manager in the southwest. He has worked in outside sales for two Arizona landscape distributors, serving the golf, residential, commercial and municipal irrigation markets.

ALCA LANDSCAPING AWARDS

12 THE ALCA INFLUENCE T July/August 2011

Model Home Installation over $100,000Sponsored by HD Supply Waterworks

Judges AwardPureGreen Landscape

Mountain Bridge Community Association

Award of DistinctionLa Paloma — Horticulture Unlimited, Inc.

La Paloma Community Association is situated in the beautiful foothills just North of Tucson. It encompasses sections of the La Paloma Development that are common to all the residential communities there. The Estate’s gate is awash in color with many mature plantings of Golden Barrels, Mexican Bird of Paradise, Yuccas and Native Mesquite, which are welcoming to all entrants to the area. The roadside landscaping transitions into desert with Dalea, Mesquite and Acacias and requires a detailed focus to maintain a pristine look that residents and guests expect. Sunrise Drive bisects La Paloma and is highly traveled. Many people view this area, and it is critical to keep it looking its best at all times. The medians demand constant attention and are viewed by many travelers each day. The La Paloma resort area reminds us that we are visitors to the vibrant, lush desert landscape.

Commercial Maintenance $50,001 - $150,000Sponsored by Helena Chemical Co

Judges AwardCareScape, Inc.

Canyon Trails Unit 4 Home Owners Association

Judges AwardAsset Landscaping

Glenhurst HOA

Award of DistinctionThe Residences at Ritz Carlton — Boxhill Landscape Design/ Solana Outdoor Living

What a great honor to be chosen to be the landscape designed for “The Residences at the Ritz Carlton,” the pictures of this landscape do not begin to do this project justice.

Aligning the interior to the exterior was my focus. I had the most beautiful backdrop, the gorgeous mountains and one of the best and most prestigious golf courses in the world. The pressure was on!

As you enter the courtyard, you are welcomed with an inset antique peak-a-boo window that looks like it was made for that space. We have an imported Moor inspired handmade fountain and pots that are so gorgeous they make you want to eat them. Super comfy outdoor furniture makes you want to have your cup of coffee out here every morning.

Wanting to take full advantage of these views, we created a negative edge pool that lures guests straight to the backyard. Since the house was a modern version of a Mexican inspired villa, we drew from the colors of Mexico with a contemporary twist.

We installed a full outdoor entertainment area for cooking and watching TV with custom design wrought iron inspired by antique patterns from one of the oldest churches in Mexico, colored intergraded stucco on the big bancos, and placed tile around the fire pit, which also serves as a coffee table. Custom designed outdoor cushions and plenty of wide seating areas are found throughout the property. The pots near the outdoor kitchen are planted with a “salsa garden,” with tomatoes, cilantro, and jalapeños for all your Mexican cooking!

13 July/August 2011 T THE ALCA INFLUENCE

ALCA LANDSCAPING AWARDS

SFR Installation $75,001 - $125,000Sponsored by West Coast Turf

Award of Distinction

Miller-Salinas Residence – Sonoran LandesignThe goal for this Tuscan home was to create an attractive, unique, and functional outdoor

environment for entertaining. An important element was to blend the modern Tuscan/contemporary interior as well as taking advantage of the extra rooms this lot provided in the front, side yard and interior courtyard. The front walk draws the eye to the front door and also provides an area for seating in the front yard. The grass creates a visual and physical cooling effect and balances the front yard on either side of the entry path. The ramada is the focal point of backyard, and pillars built in to the pool tie the pool and landscape design together seamlessly. The outdoor kitchen has built-in natural gas and charcoal grills and is one more reason to come outside. The interior courtyard is a lush green space that can be viewed from all angles from inside the home. The acid stained steppers were perfect for the applications and also tied the courtyard design in with the rest of the landscape. As a final touch, the lighting and shadowing helps set the landscape off at night, and of course, invites you outside to enjoy it!

Award of ExcellenceArabashi Residence – Horticulture Unlimited, Inc.

This newly constructed home is located in the pristine desert of Pima Canyon Estates. The tropical, Mediterranean landscape design for the backyard creates a lush oasis just inside the walls from the surrounding natural areas. Bold foliage and accent plants comprise the plant palette. The “swim in” grotto is surrounded by planters that soften the faux rock design. A separate yard area is a place for a tranquil retreat with Citrus trees, a wall fountain of carved stone and artificial turf. The front courtyard and fountain area retains the Mediterranean feel with two large Texas Ebony trees, color plantings and accent plants. The fountain has a dark tiled back on the wall, a large basin with three bubbling spouts and black Mexican beach pebbles at the bottom. The driveway and entry to the home are filled with desert trees, color shrubs and vines that transition to the natural desert areas.

Judges AwardCareScape, Inc.

Sarival Village Home Owners Association

Judges AwardSonoran LandesignPolege Residence

Judges AwardGothic Grounds ManagementCorte Bella Country Club

SFR Installation $50,001 - $75,000Sponsored by Enviro Control

Judges AwardSolana Outdoor Living

The Overlook at the Gallery

Commercial Maint $250,001 - $350,000Sponsored by Midway Chevrolet

ALCA MEMBER PROFILE

14 THE ALCA INFLUENCE T July/August 2011

Researchers have found that a chemical released by freshly mowed grass can help people relax and make them cheerful. After seven years of rigorous research, sci-entists now claim to have made a perfume, the “eau de mow” which “smells like

a freshly-cut lawn”, and helps relieve stress and enhance memory. It’s no wonder that Evergreen Turf’s customers always seem happy, cheerful, relaxed, and mentally sharp! We deliver freshly mowed, dark green, high quality sod everyday, bringing the “aroma” of freshly cut grass to Arizona.

Evergreen Turf has a reputation for high quality turf, but one of the main reasons many people choose Evergreen when it comes to their projects, big or small, is that they truly are “stress relievers”. Here are few examples…

#1 Rated Field in the NFL, Four Years in a Row! The Arizona Cardinal’s and Evergreen Turf have partnered up to produce the best

field in the NFL – again! The NFL players take a poll at the end of the season to vote for their preferred playing surface - and the Cardinal’s won by a landslide! Evergreen Turf custom grows all of the sod for the field repairs, keeping the field in pristine condition during peak season play.

More Sports Fields for Arizona! The city of Glendale upgraded one of their old parks and gave Sahuaro Ranch Sports

Park a much needed face lift. Evergreen Turf was asked to join in and help select the right turf and growing medium for this softball complex. 335,000 square feet of sod was installed by Evergreen Turf.

TifGrand is coming! Finally, a hybrid bermudagrass, with true shade tolerance! The newest hybrid Bermuda

from the University of Georgia brings the promise of shade tolerance and fine texture in a warm season turf. This will allow Arizona to have a fine textured turf (similar to Tifway 419 in texture and color), that can tolerate 60% shade and full sun. Arizona’s first all-purpose turf! Be on the watch for more news on this grass! Limited production will be available this spring, exclusively from Evergreen Turf.

Golf Courses Make a Comeback! Arizona’s golf market was hard hit with the downturn, but this past year the renova-

tion work has seen a nice rebound as construction costs hit an all time low. Evergreen Turf’s handiwork can be seen at Aguila GC, Gainey Ranch GC, Saddlebrook CC, Sun City Recreation Centers, La Paloma CC, The Pointe at Tapatio Cliffs, The Phoenician, Paradise Valley CC, and the list goes on…

Products: Evergreen Turf grows a wide range of varieties; Tifway, Tifgreen, Midiron, Palmetto St. Augustine, Celebration, sand-based sod for sports fields, and elite golf course greens grasses - TifEagle, TifDwarf, and MiniVerde. Each variety is mowed at the right height for its optimum performance and for the intended application of each variety. Watch for their newest variety –TifGrand, coming soon!

Evergreen Turf is Arizona’s Premier Sod Producer, growing quality sod for golf courses, sports fields, home lawns, and landscape contractors. While purity continues to be the cornerstone of Evergreen’s success, the real driving force behind their phenomenal growth is the ability of their people to bring “stress relief” to their customers. Every single manager, administrator, and customer service person has extensive background in the sod industry. Evergreen’s people are experienced in installing big rolls, hydro-sprigging, mechanical planting, big jobs, or even your very own backyard.

So get a little stress relief – let Evergreen Turf handle your sod needs while you sit back and breathe in the aroma of fresh cut grass… and relax a little!

Contact Evergreen Turf at (480) 456-1199 or online at www.evergreenturf.com .

Evergreen Turf Bringing Stress Relief to Arizona

ALCA MEMBER PROFILE

15 July/August 2011 T THE ALCA INFLUENCE

Your local Horizon stores:Anthem 623.551.6868 | Casa Grande 520.876.5697 | Chandler 480.961.3311

Goodyear 623.882.3200 | Higley 480.279.2404 | Mesa 480.964.1616 | Peoria 623.876.9200

Phoenix 602.305.6046 | Scottsdale 480.596.8711 | Tucson 520.408.1000

i r r i g a t i o n | s p e c i a l t y | l a n d s c a p e | e q u i p m e n t

The Edge You Need

800.PVC.TURF | HorizonOnline.com

Join us! Search Horizon Distributors

The new Horizon Landscape Maintenance Guide Smartphone/iPad app.

Enter for a chance to win a free iPad® from Horizon by visiting YouNeedHorizon.com/ipad2 No purchase necessary. Apple is neither a sponsor nor a participant in this promotion.

You’re on a jobsite and you have a problem you can’t identify.The clock is ticking.

Download Horizon’s new Landscape Maintenance Guide app for your mobile device—and gain real-time access to a wealth of tools, reference materials and resources to help you get done and get on to the next job faster.

Horizon Distributors Inc. announces the launch of its new Web site, www.horizononline.com. The new site has a fresh, clean look, simple navigation elements and several new customer-

friendly features including a downloadable resources section and a full, downloadable product catalog.

“Horizon’s new Web site was designed to be user-friendly and to provide the information that our customers most often request from us,” said Phil Stephens, vice president, sales and marketing, Horizon Distributors. “Users can easily find the resources, trainings, products and green industry information that they need to be successful and get their jobs done.”

Along with increased functionality and easy navigation, the site features an expanded resource section, a store locator and information on Horizon’s many customer-focused programs. Customers can also download resources including podcasts, trainings, Webinars and Hori-zon’s Landscape Maintenance Guide, a how-to guide with answers to questions that grounds maintenance professionals face everyday.

Customers also can more easily locate sales representatives in their area and use the new project bid request tool, which helps landscape and irrigation professionals quickly create bids and then find the equipment and tools they need to get their jobs done. Plus, customers can access the Marketing Toolkit where they can order customized marketing materials.

“This new site was designed to be a total resource for landscape and irrigation professionals,” added Stephens. “Our goal is to provide more than just product information on our new site so customers can find

resources and information about their jobs or about the landscape and irrigation industries in general.” For more information and to access everything that Horizon’s new Web site has to offer, please visit www.horizononline.com.

About Horizon Distributors Inc.Horizon Distributors Inc. is a professional distributor that sells a

variety of products and services to the green industry professional with more than 55 Horizon Sales Centers in the Western United States, including Texas and Louisiana. It offers customers the industry’s widest choice of irrigation, landscape, specialty and power equipment products, including top quality brand names like Rain Bird, Hunter, Lasco, NDS, Toro, Exmark, Echo/Shindaiwa, Vista Professional Outdoor Lighting, Corona and Monsanto. For more information, please visit www.hori-zononline.com.

About Pool CorporationHeadquartered in Chandler, Arizona, Horizon is part of the Pool Cor-

poration (NASDAQ/NM:POOL) family of companies. POOL through its SCP and Superior Pool Products network is the largest wholesale distributor of swimming pool supplies and related products. Currently, POOL operates 272 sales centers in North America and Europe, through which it distributes more than 100,000 national brand and private label products to over 70,000 wholesale customers. For more information about POOL, please visit www.poolcorp.com.

Horizon Distributors Inc. Launches New Web siteNew Site Designed with Landscape and Irrigation Professionals in Mind

16

ARBOR DAY

ALCA’s Community Project Director, Bob Franchetto, organized a tree planting project at Gilbert Elemen-

tary on Friday, April 29 in celebration of Arbor Day. Dale Siever with Vermeer Sales Southwest prepared the holes for planting. Gilbert Elementary Principal Ray Mercado chose students from the Sixth grade who are “CHAMPS”, student that have and model positive peer skills, to assist Bob with the plant-ing. Bob chose Quercus virginiana (Southern Live Oaks) that were donated by Beth Gosnell with All Season Wholesale Growers. Since

this type of oak grows faster than typical oaks, it is a perfect fit for the large school yard where the spreading form can be accommodated and provide shade. Sweet edible acorns are usually produced in great abundance and are of value to many birds. The name live oak comes from the fact that evergreen oaks remain green and “live” throughout winter, when other oaks are dormant, leafless and “dead”-looking.

Once the tree was set in the hole, the stu-dents were eager to fill in the dirt, creating a berm to hold water. Bob explained that newly-planted trees can be susceptible to falling over in heavy winds and so he asked for assistance in staking the trees. Students measured and cut the wire, inserted the rubber tube to protect the bark then wrapped the wire around the stake securing the knot. As adults, these children will be able to return to visit their elementary school and take pride in knowing they planted these beautiful shade trees.

ALCA Celebrates Arbor Day at Gilbert Elementary

THE ALCA INFLUENCE T July/August 2011

17 July/August 2011 T THE ALCA INFLUENCE

MARKETING

I know what you’re saying: “I’m a landscape professional, and I don’t have a marketing business.”

What if I told you that it doesn’t matter what you do or what your business provides? Every business is in the marketing business. Every business stays alive or thrives by building trust and motivating customers. Proactive busi-nesses make marketing a priority. Sure, the economy has been down. Have you chosen to participate in the down economy or make your own? It’s time to identify what you can do to succeed and DO those things.

You can’t watch the news without hearing something about lost jobs, the recession or a number of other terrible things. The economy isn’t great, but it doesn’t have to be your economy. I know many people thriving in this bad economy and frankly they don’t mind that most people are complaining. They have chosen to see things dif-ferently. They have chosen to look for opportunities. I also know many people that love to complain and they’ll always think of reasons why they can’t do something. Find-ing ways to succeed does take a little bit more creativity these days. Waiting for things to get better just doesn’t work. Knowing what you can do now will empower you to move forward.

You don’t have to call what you are doing “marketing,” but at some point you’ll realize that each customer you have today went on a journey of knowing, liking, and eventually trusting you enough to open his or her wallet. The aver-age company has figured this much out, but only the great understand the importance and speed of trust through a consistent marketing system.

Most companies tend to be reactive. They see what oth-ers do and then copy; they fail to look for new opportunities. They fail to adapt or change.

But taking a proactive approach takes truly understand-ing your customers. It takes climbing inside their brains to see how they tick. It takes looking through the lenses they are wearing to see what they see. It takes listening with your heart to feel what they feel and how they feel it. True understanding makes your job a whole lot easier, and providing your customers with an emotional experience will keep them coming back. Anyone can sell a product or service, but the great ones provide an unforgettable experi-ence. Marketing this way tends to be the opposite of what “they do” and sets you apart, giving you the ultimate edge.

Taking action will help you and your business grow. Take some time over the next few weeks to monitor your thoughts and speech. Are you blaming the weather, government, or some other thing for not taking your business to the next level? Be careful of using word like, “I have to,” “if only,” or “I can’t.” Take initiative and identify opportunities for you and your business. Communicate with your customers. Find ways to increase value to your current customers. Let them know of all the ways you can help in achieving their goals. Show them you really care about their landscape and will do your best to make it more beautiful.

This usually means more proposals & estimates. Don’t wait for them to ask you. They need to know you care about them and are proactively looking for ways to make their lives better. Make sure your customers know what sets you apart from “the others” and that you love referrals. Keep in touch with all your past and present customers. Look for ways to find more customers. Do you need a website? Could you start a newsletter? Can you put on a neighborhood gardening workshop? What could you do to find other businesses serving your same customer type and build relationships with them? Whatever you decide to do; be consistent. Consistency will make you stronger and will help you build a business on word of mouth, the most powerful form of marketing.

Marketing Your Landscape BusinessBy Loren Smith

Written by Loren Smith, The Land-scape Marketing Institute. He can be contact at 888-984-3564. Please visit the website at www.TheLMI.com.

18 THE ALCA INFLUENCE T July/August 2011

ALCA BULLETIN BOARD

Health Care ReformHealth care reform is complicated. Sifting through all

the regulations and provisions can be time-consuming and confusing. That’s why for many business owners, a simplified overview and clear, concise answers to the health care reform issues facing employers can make a huge difference. Strategic Benefits Consultants, LLC continues to monitor and provide clients with the information needed to make educated decisions.

Keeping the Old…• Companies with current health plans for their

business have seen few immediate changes as the law has provided for ‘grandfathering’ of policies that were in effect on or before March 23, 2010. This allowed employers to keep their benefits for currently enrolled employees, dependents and new hires. Minor changes to a plan have been allowed but major changes were not.

• Routine plan changes for employers that wouldn’t trigger a loss of ‘grandfathered’ status; cost adjustment to keep pace with medical inflation, additions of new benefits, voluntarily adopting new consumer protections under the law and making changes to comply with state or federal laws.

• Changes that would cause an employer to lose its ‘grandfathered’ status; significantly cut or reduce benefits, raise co-insurance charges or deductibles, significantly lower employer contributions and add or lower annual limits prior to November 15, 2010.Within the past few months recent provisions in the

law have been added and are shared so you can take advantage of them today.

Embracing the New…• Assistance to employees with children and young

adults. Previously health plans could limit or deny health care coverage to children with pre-existing conditions such as asthma. Today, new healthcare laws require health plans to offer coverage to children regardless of whether their health issue was

discovered or retreated before getting the policy. In addition, young adults can now remain on their parent’s health plan until they turn 26; this includes those who are full-time students. For young adults whose focus is on their careers, this allows them to focus on just that rather than worrying about their health care coverage.

• New allowances given for preventive care and services. Today many health plans are required to provide different types of preventive care services now without co-pays, coinsurance and deductibles. These services may include mammograms, colonoscopies, vaccinations and prenatal care. The savings extended the employee are monumental allowing the employee to focus on other faucets of the health.

• No annual limits on benefits. Health plans today no longer are allowed to put limits on the amount of care someone needs to receive. To individuals with chronic health problems no longer need to worry about limited services or no benefits to better their wellness. Keep in mind that there are many moving parts to

this legislation even though the bill was signed into law March 23, 2010 and several legal specifics have yet to be worked out. I recommend that you stay in close contact with your benefits consultant team to ensure your business is properly prepared and to answer specific questions regarding potential changes to your benefits plan and available options that can keep your employees – and your business – healthy, happy and strong. If you have additional questions, our team here at SBC is more than happy to help. We can be reached at 602-595-1611.

Article written by JW Wight of Strategic Benefits Consultants, LLC. Mr. Wight has over 15 years of experience serving clients in multiple facets of insurance in both AZ and across the US.

As you know, Arizona voters narrowly passed a bill last November that will permit individuals with specified medical conditions to obtain a registry identification card from the Arizona Department of Health Services allowing them to obtain or cultivate marijuana.

While the Department of Health Services continues to gather public input for the guidelines it must write, the measure continues to raise all kinds of questions for Arizona employers and your membership.

SCF Arizona believes you and your members need to understand how this new law will impact personnel policies and safety in the workplace. Here is an example of just some of the questions we have received since the bill passed:

Can an employer prohibit marijuana use at work?

• What if an applicant or current employee tests positive in a pre-employment drug test?

• Can an employer terminate an employee for being under the influence of medical marijuana at work?

• Should employers change their drug-testing policies to comply with the law?

• What if an employee tells a manager that he or she uses medical marijuana?

• If an employee tells the employer that marijuana is used for medical reasons, does that mean the employee has a “disability” under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)?Some of these questions have legal implications

and some are just common sense – but all of these, and many more, will face your members. Therefore, SCF has prepared some frequently asked questions and placed them on our website, www.scfaz.com.

What You Need to Know About Medical Marijuana

The Muck Truck??? INVENTION OR INNOVATION???

To begin…Let’s contrast Invention with InnovationInvention: a device, contrivance or process originated

after study and experiment.Innovation: the conversion of a device, contrivance

or process (i.e. an invention) into revenues and profits. An invention cannot be found on a financial report but innovation can.

Examples of inventions:The wheelbarrow: A human propelled device usually

with just 1 wheel, 2 handles designed to be pushed, pulled and guided by 1 person for the transportation of limited types of heavy or bulky material in areas where large equipment cannot be used.

Muck Truck: A Honda propelled device with 4 wheel drive and 2 grips designed for 1 operator requiring NO pushing, pulling or heavy lifting. Hauling up to 550lbs of numerous materials nearly anywhere.

The Muck Truck however stays true to the definition of innovation by reducing labor cost, workers compensation claims and operators fatigue which can all be seen on the profitable side of a financial report. The Muck Truck first began its innovation process using the invention of the wheelbarrow in 1993. The Muck Truck has also evolved into the world’s most popular pedestrian material hauler moving many types of material all day long, day in and day out at a pace that could never be achieved with the wheelbarrow.

In July of 2009 the Muck Truck contributes again to innovation by introducing THE MAX. Able to haul loads up to 800lbs and now American made, still only 28� in width coupled with an interchangeable POWER-LIFT attachment, allows for the transportation of ¼ pallets of brick, pavers, tile, stone, etc The Power-Lift attachment can also be used for lifting and moving of boulders and box trees up to 800lbs and transporting them virtually anywhere. With the Muck Truck versatility and durability it will continue to stay innovative by developing new models and attachments and remaining to stay on the black side of contractor’s financial reports for many years to come.

For more info contact Kevin Estein with Bear Grass Enterprises, authorized Southwest Muck Truck dealer. 602-330-3172 e-mail [email protected]

19 July/August 2011 T THE ALCA INFLUENCE

Specimen Trees for Desert LandscapesARID ZONE TREES

phone (480) 987-9094 fax (480) 987-9092

e-mail: [email protected]

Variety ‘AZT’Quality, Uniform, Desert Adapted Trees

SIMPLY THE BESTProsopis Hybrid ‘AZT’

Thornless Mesquite

Cercidium praecox ‘AZT’Sonoran Palo Verde

Olneya tesota ‘AZT’Desert Ironwood

Cercidium Hybrid ‘AZT’Thornless Hybrid Palo Verde

Chilopsis linearis ‘AZT Bi-Color’Desert Willow

Chilopsis linearis ‘AZT Desert Amethyst’

Desert Willow

Cercidium Hybrid ‘DM’Desert Museum Hybrid Palo Verde*

*AZT propagates the ‘Desert Museum’ with the guidance and permission of the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum

Document1 2/29/04 2:44 AM Page 1

e-mail: [email protected]

20

APRIL MIXER

MEMBER MIXERS

Auto Safety House would like to thank the ALCA and its members for allowing us to sponsor the Member Mixer at the Old Tortilla Factory in Old Town Scottsdale on April 20th. We feel that partnering with local groups such as ALCA will assist its members with opportunities to make their fleet of vehicles more sustainable, efficient and safe to operate.

Our expertise in truck equipment, work truck accessories, trailer parts and equipment, emergency lighting, plus miscellaneous equipment and gear used by work crews across a variety of industries is what establishes our reputation as a fleet solutions provider. Auto Safety House also offers many products and services that are environmentally friendly.

Auto Safety House first opened its doors in Phoenix in 1941 and we continue to strengthen our relationships as a fleet solutions provider for your fleet needs today and tomorrow. You may reach your Auto Safety House representatives by calling 602-269-9721.

Fleet Priorities – from Auto Safety House (ASH)The Three Pillars of Fleet Success Nearly every fleet vehicle on the road today can be considered to be “incidental” as defined by the following definitions below:

in·ci·den·tal – adjective1. happening or likely to happen in an unplanned or subordinate conjunction with something else. 2. incurred casually and in addition to the regular or main amount: incidental expenses.

3. likely to happen or naturally appertaining (usually followed by to ). So, unless you are a delivery company, where the vehicles in your fleet are a direct part of the services that

you provide, your fleet vehicles and trailers were added “incidentally” to your company in order to enable your crews to transport themselves, materials, and tools to the jobsite in order to perform the actual services that generate revenue for your company. This does not mean that you haven’t taken into account the cost of these vehicles and added that into your service pricing. However, in many cases, the major focus of a company with an incidental fleet is on the equipment, materials and labor used to get “the work” done. The emphasis on the vehicles or fleet is usually, just to keep everything running (PMs, repairs, etc.).

What we have found out over the many years of assisting companies with all of their fleet needs is that companies that view their incidental fleets as not incidental, but as an integrated part of their overall service delivery and execution process have incorporated a fleet management strategy that we call the “Three Pillars

of Fleet Success” which include: Productivity – incorporate all available productivity related design and accessory

technology into each work vehicle in order to maximize work crew productivity and reduce service delivery / execution costs

Safety – consider vehicle design and accessories that will increase the safety of each vehicle and worker in order to reduce lost time injury and property damage costs. Workers that are focused on safety are usually more productive.

Sustainability – seriously evaluate all vehicle add-on equipment as industrial grade in order to increase the useful life of this equipment and eliminate down time for equipment repairs/replacement. Also consider all fuel and energy savings technologies to reduce operating costs.

Incorporating these strategies into your fleet management plan will increase your profitability by reducing your fleet costs and increasing your work crew productivity.

For additional Fleet Productivity, Safety and Sustainability assistance or information contact:

Rudy Garcia, VP Sales & Marketing, ASH (602) 269-9721 – [email protected]

THE ALCA INFLUENCE T July/August 2011

21 July/August 2011 T THE ALCA INFLUENCE

Register by September 16th $25 ALCA Member

Non-Member FREE

Wednesday, September 21, 2011 5:30-8:30PM

New Member Recruitment Night and Mini Trade Show

MountainPreserve Reception

Center Meet and greet fellow mem-

bers of the Green Industry Support the vendors that sup-

port you Improve your business Don’t let your competitors

outpace you Pick up a copy of the Sustaina-

ble Landscape Management practices

Join today and enjoy member-ship through 2012

Bring your business cards for a chance to win fabulous raffle prizes

Cold & Refreshing non-alcoholic beverages

Cash bar for other beverages Excellent Hors D’oeuvres Contact ALCA 602-626-7091

Mountain Preserve Reception Center 1431 E Dunlap Ave, Phoenix

MEMBER MIXERS

MAY MIXER

Bingham Equipment Company And Bobcat of Phoenix Sponsor ALCA Mixer

On behalf of Bingham Equipment Company and Bobcat of Phoenix we want to thank the ALCA crew and all of the dedicated members that braved the rain this May for our member mixer held at McCormick Ranch Golf Club. Mind, Body and Spirit were in full effect as we made connections, shared ideas and dined on a cornucopia of flavor; stuffed mushrooms were the surprise victor if you ask us. We took in the amazing view of nature’s beauty as the sun set and the clouds rolled in over the golf course.

We enjoyed speaking with many of you during the mixer and continue to value those relationships both on and off the field. Getting together on these occasions has a way of reminding us how large yet personal our industry is whether flush or bust, we’re all in this together.

At Bingham Equipment Company we continually stretch ourselves to be the team that you count on when you have a job to do. Whether it is purchasing or leasing the equipment you need, renting the machinery you want, or servicing the equipment you have we are happy to work for you. It is members like yourselves and customers alike who help condition us to be the dealership you want to do business with. As Norm Bingham our founder will tell you, “I felt then (1955), as I do now, that sensitivity and understanding of customers’ needs have always been paramount in achieving a strong customer relationship”.

We continue to exercise this principal as we strengthen service to our customers with products such as the KUBOTA Commercial Zero Turn Mower. A quality product you expect; if you already have a Kubota tractor, utility vehicle, or Mini-excavator you know what we’re talking about, with the commitment to service you require. If any part of your day involves turf care, give these mowers a real shot. KUBOTA offers their gasoline or famous diesel engine options with cutting widths from 48-72 inches. Comfort and extreme durability are top of the line while overall design makes performance and serviceability a breath of fresh cut grass air!

While you are checking out a KUBOTA mower at any of our three valley locations, you will also notice the addition of STIHL hand held power equipment on the showroom floor. Another commitment that Bingham Equipment Company and Bobcat of Phoenix have made to bring you the quality products and service you need to get the job done.

Thank you again for your attendance at the May ALCA mixer. Sincerely, The Bingham Equipment Crew

22

AD INDEX/RESOURCE GUIDE

BIO-FERTIIZERSBio Feed Solutions Inc,

(623) 930-7510www.biofeedsolutions.comPlease see our ad on page .............9

CHEMICAL PRODUCTS /RELATED SERVICES

Univar USA, Inc.(866) 854-3367www.univarpps.comPlease see our ad on page ...........16

COMMERCIAL FLEET SALES

Rodeo Ford(623) 298-3938www.rodeofordAZ.comPlease see our ad on page .............9

EROSION CONTROL/HYDROSEEDING

Western Sere(888) 448-SERE (7373)www.westernsere.comPlease see our ad on page .............3

IRRIGATION PRODUCTS & SYSTEMS

DIG Corporation(800) 322-9146www.digcorp.comPlease see our ad on page .............3

Ewing Irrigation(800) 343-9464www.ewing.comPlease see our ad on page .............2

Horizon(800) PVCTURF (782-8873)www.horizononline.comPlease see our ad on page ...........15

Hunter Industries(760) 744-5240www.hunterindustries.comPlease see our ad on page .............8

John Deere Landscapes(800) 347-4272www.johndeerelandscapes.comPlease see our ad on page .............7

Netafim(888) 638-2346www.netafimusa.comPlease see our ad on page .............9

LANDSCAPE EQUIPMENTArizona Machinery

(602) 917-1530www.arizonamachinery.comPlease see our ad on page ...........19

Bingham Equipment Company(480) 610-4082www.binghamequipment.comPlease see our ad on page .............4

LANDSCAPE SUPPLIESTarget Specialty Products

(800) 352-3870www.target-specialty.comPlease see our ad on page ...........23

Wibur Ellis Co.(480) 921-8500www.wilburellis.comPlease see our ad on page ...........11

LIGHTINGFocus Industries

(888) 882-1350www.focusindustries.comPlease see our ad on page ...........16

NURSERIESAll Season Wholesale Growers

(602) 276-0230www.allseasongrowers.comPlease see our ad on page ...........22

Arid Zone Trees(480) 987-9094www.aridzonetrees.comPlease see our ad on page ...........19

OUTDOOR KITCHENSLynx Professional Grills

(323) 838-1770www.lynxgrills.comPlease see our ad on page .............5

PLANT/LANDSCAPE HEALTH MANAGEMENT

EnviroControl(480) 776-0079www.envirocontrol-llc.comPlease see our ad on page .............6

POTTERYInternational Wholesale Pottery

(602) 454-0528www.iwpottery.netPlease see our ad on page ...........19

SOD/TURFEvergreen Turf, Inc.

(480) 456-1199www.evergreenturf.comPlease see our ad on page ....Back Cover

Western Sod(800) 832-TURF (8873)www.westernsod.comPlease see our ad on page .............7

TRUCK BODIES, TRAILERPARTS & EQUIPMENT

Auto Safety House LLC(602) 269-9721www.autosafetyhouse.comPlease see our ad on page ...........20

VEHICLE TRACKING SYSTEMS

Industrack(928) 505-3100www.industrack.comPlease see our ad on page ...........19

WHOLESALE NURSERY & CUSTOM GROWER

Waldrons Farm(602) 276-8076www.waldronsfarm.comPlease see our ad on page ...........17

AD INDEX

All Season Wholesale Growers ........ 22

Arid Zone Trees ............................... 19

Arizona Machinery ........................... 19

Auto Safety House LLC ................... 20

Bingham Equipment Company .......... 4

Bio Feed Solutions Inc,....................... 9

DIG Corporation ............................... 3

EnviroControl .................................... 6

Evergreen Turf, Inc. ........... Back Cover

Ewing Irrigation .................................. 2

Focus Industries ............................... 16

Horizon ............................................ 15

Hunter Industries ............................... 8

Industrack ........................................ 19

International Wholesale Pottery ...... 19

John Deere Landscapes ..................... 7

Lynx Professional Grills ...................... 5

Netafim .............................................. 9

Rodeo Ford ........................................ 9

Target Specialty Products ................ 23

Univar USA, Inc. .............................. 16

Waldrons Farm ................................ 17

Western Sere ..................................... 3

Western Sod ...................................... 7

Wibur Ellis Co. ................................. 11

Beth Gosnell602-276-0230 phone

602-276-0660 fax

6623 South 32nd Street, #4Phoenix, AZ 85042

[email protected]

All Season Wholesale Growers

Wholesale grower of quality annualcolor, shrubs and trees

Our Reputation Starts With You

THE ALCA INFLUENCE T July/August 2011