May - CLCA San Francisco Bay Area Chapter

C a l i f o r n i 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
B B
MAY 2010 • Vol. 34, Issue No. 5
w w w. c l c a s f b a . o r g
San Francisco Bay Area Chapter
A tradition of excellence.
Membership Night
Full of Smiles
Membership Appreciation Night at Poplar
Creek Grill on Coyote Point in San Mateo
was a celebration of new and old members,
May 13: Time Management
Blossoming Into an Outcome
Based Life vs. a Busy Life
Student Chapter Project design competition
Are the smaller projects taking up too much time these days? Are you breaking your back,
winners and friendship! We gathered at a
filling your hours with aimless work with aimless results? How much of your work in a week
venue new to our group. The beautifully
adds up to desired and worthy outcomes? Are you soundly frustrated from the distractions that
remodeled facility “passed muster” with a
stray you off track? Are you really ready for a life with More Money in Less Time with More
peaceful view of the newly restored golf
Time for More Recreation?
course and gardens. We gathered at the bar
Join Sunil Bhaskaran, the Time Management Extraordinaire, on Thursday, May 13th in
(continued on page 8)
this engaging, humorous and inspiring presentation. YOU WILL: Learn practices from
the latest in Brain Science Research to develop your capacity to produce results and
reduce stress; Learn practices that keep you aware, alert and conscious; Learn at least 5
strategies for creating more "Choice Time" in your calendar; Learn how to manage
distractions; Learn how to stop or inhibit overwhelm; Learn practices that really
successful and happy business people use to manage their business; Learn distinctions
in how to manage your moods and reactions; Learn how to create and evolve a true
team of people who will respect your time and theirs; Learn practices to keep you on
track without adding overhead of time.
When:
Ernst Lehmann (right) presents a 45 year
membership appreciation award to his good
friend Camille Domine at April’s Membership
Appreciation Dinner. See page 8.
Thursday, March 13th.
5:00 P.M. Cocktails and Social Hour (main bar and dining areas)
Dinner 6:15 P.M; Program 7:00 P.M.
Where:
Celia’s Mexican Restaurant; 1850 El Camino Real, Menlo Park
(between Encinal Ave. and Fair Oaks Lane) (650) 321-8227
Menu:
Chicken and Beef Buffet with enchiladas, tacos, and fajitas
Vegetarian: fajitas only; Rice, beans, and all the fixings
Flan and cheesecake for dessert.
Cost:
$25.00 per person
RSVP:
Make your reservations in the RSVP field of you Evite or contact Mike
Hertzer at 408.371.4477, ext. 2 or email at hertzer@sbcglobal.net. PLEASE
indicate if you prefer vegetarian.
Chapter project design competition winners (left
to right): James Walker, Olga Chudnovsy,
Brandon Stewart, David Sauter, Jane
Burgunder and Chanda Stewart. See page 5.
Directions: From 101 North or South, Exit Marsh Road and turn west; left on
Middlefield Road, right on Fair Oaks Lane, left on El Camino Real; .6
miles on the left.
2010 SF Bay Area Chapter Contacts
CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD
JIM EVERETT
(650) 363-0740
EvLand LLC
evland@sbcglobal.net
PRESIDENT
RICK CAMIN
Camin Landscaping
(650) 964-1078
rick@caminland.com
VICE PRESIDENT / MEMBERSHIP CHAIR
JAMES WALKER
(650) 333-2021
Landsculpt
landsculpt@earthlink.net
TREASURER
NATE CROSBY
(408) 417-5137
Crosby Landscaping crosbyyardservices@gmail.com
SECRETARY
LARRY SCOTT
(408) 687-1104
Integrity Landscape Services integmail@comcast.net
ASSOCIATE LIAISON
ROB LEUER
Bamboo Pipeline
AUXILIARY PRESIDENT
LESLEY PETERS
(510) 896-5985
rleuer@bamboopipeline.com
(650) 941-4093
gpland@sbcglobal.net
AUXILIARY TREASURER
CHARLENE OTT
(650) 948-7858
leoott@sbcglobal.net
AUXILIARY VICE PRESIDENT
DIANA WHITNEY
(650) 941-9677
diana@samscaping.com
AUXILIARY SECRETARY
JILL HERTZER
S
uccess
By Rob Leuer, Bamboo Pipeline Inc.
The Partners for Success program is nothing without YOU! This annual giving program
vjvance@gmail.com
voice (530) 621-1701
fax (530) 621-2043
jsb@beardassociates.com
CLCA State Headquarters
1491 River Park Drive, Ste. 100
Sacramento CA 95815-8899
(916) 830-2780 • (800) 448-2522
(916) 830-2788 Fax • email: hq@clca.org
these ladies (and guys) know how to have
Women’s Auxiliary - Our
Chapter’s Best Kept Secret
sex barrier into the Women's Auxiliary was
broken down years ago. I heard they have
seven male members including Mike
favorite CLCA events last year was the
Holiday Party, Education, and Student Sponsorship – the future of our strong and growing
At last month's Membership Night, I
wonderful years, and I had no idea she
Women's Auxiliary potluck at the Ott's
organization.
received my president's yearbook for last
could throw a horseshoe. Hmmm, maybe I
house. I was amazed at the lifetime
Our group has a great history of working together for the common good. It is evident
year from the Women's Auxiliary. I was
shouldn't be too surprised as she is always
friendships I witnessed that day. My theme
at each dinner event, board meeting, educational seminar, or other event: Active members
blown away as I flipped through all the
scolding me and throwing my muddy
last year was, “Participation Leads to
promoting and participating in healthy activities to help our businesses grow.
pages of content and photos that celebrated
shoes out of the house. Our family also had
Lifelong Friendship,” and there I was
my year as chapter president. I know an
a great time at last year’s Holiday Party at
witnessing my theme first hand. It was
remember to support the Partners who support our chapter!
enormous amount of time and energy went
Gilroy Gardens where we witnessed the
quite a sight! Needless to say, I was the last
DIAMOND PARTNERS
into the creation of my yearbook. I want to
spectacular Christmas light display and had
person to leave that evening around
AG Sod • Hunter Industries • Lyngso Garden Materials • Pacific Nurseries
thank Lesley Peters and the Women's
fun on the amusement rides. My favorite
midnight (sorry Leo and Charlene) as I
The Garden Route Co.
Auxiliary for giving me such a wonderful
Holiday Party was the cruise on the bay in
looked through all the past chapter
gift that I will treasure for a lifetime. In my
San Francisco a couple of years ago --
yearbooks that Charlene carefully
opinion, our Women's Auxiliary is our best
eating prime rib and sharing a glorious
organized. I could not believe I was seeing
kept secret on why our chapter is so
sunny day with CLCA friends. You can't
pictures from the 1970's with the same
successful and one of the strongest in the
beat it!
We are grateful for our Partners who have committed to the Chapter this 2010 year and
PLATINUM PARTNERS
Bobcat West • Colony Landscape • Samscaping, Inc. • Tractor Equipment Supply
Peninsula Building Materials • Landscape Contractors Insurance Services
GOLD PARTNERS
state.
The first time I heard of the Women's
Besides helping and organizing our
events, the Women's Auxiliary promotes
people in them who were at the potluck
that day. It was an afternoon full of laughter
and joy which I felt privileged to attend.
The best kept secret in our chapter is the
ACHIEVEMENT AWARDS
Auxiliary was when I co-chaired the
education for our chapter. Every chapter
Village Gardner • Lyngso Garden Materials • Hunter Industries
Chapter Project several years ago. I got a
dinner meeting, the Women's Auxiliary is
Women's Auxiliary. My wife joined last year
phone call from Alice Domine, and she
working hard selling raffle tickets and
becoming their 50th member! I have no
asked me if the Women's Auxiliary group
providing a beautiful raffle basket to the
plans to miss the fun, since I will be joining
could help in any way with organizing
lucky winner. All funds collected go to the
this year. I welcome everyone to join the
STUDENT SPONSORSHIP
breakfast and lunch for all the volunteers. I
'College Enrichment Fund' that awards
Women's Auxiliary. Please contact Lesley
EvLand LLC • Girvin Peters Landscape
was shocked! Such a generous offer caught
qualifying students and colleges with
Peters for all the details and see
me completely off guard. I had a million
Horticulture departments. At the state level,
this issue for the next Auxiliary's meeting. I
details to organize for project day and
scholarships are awarded to college
will see you there!
having help to organize the food and
students in a program called the Landscape
GARDEN TOUR
Astrid Gaiser • Leo & Charlene Ott • Jolee Horne Landscape Design • Landscapia
Thanks again to all of our partners! Remember to show your appreciation by supporting
those who support your Chapter. If you would like to become involved with this important
program, please contact Rob Leuer at (510) 896-5985, or email: rleuer@bamboopipeline.
refreshments was a huge load of my
Education Advancement Foundation
CLCA Mission Statement
shoulders. Charlene Ott and Lesley Peters
(LEAF). Mary Cohen has spent many years
The California Landscape Contractors Association
serves the interests of its members, promotes
professionalism, and advances public awareness of
the landscape industry.
took charge on project day. I can't thank
volunteering for the LEAF program, and I
them and the Women's Auxiliary enough
have heard countless accolades from
for their help and support. Thank you
members across the state on her
The CLCA SFBA Chapter newsletter is published monthly. Copy and advertising deadlines are the 10th of the
month preceding publication. Please send all copy,
black & white photos, line art and ad materials to: Jerrie
Beard & Associates, 1024 Simon Dr., Ste. F, Placerville
CA 95667. Emailed submissions are also welcome at
jsb@beardassociates.com. For information on advertising and rates, contact Jerrie Beard at (530) 621-1701.
Alice, Charlene and Lesley!
contribution to the LEAF program. We are
And don’t forget, we can accept payments via MasterCard or Visa.
But helping me at the Chapter Project is
only the beginning of their contributions to
our chapter. Every year, the Women's
Auxiliary organizes the Chapter Picnic and
Articles submitted are subject to approval and modification. Chapter or Editor are not liable for misprints or
errors, and do not necessarily agree with opinions
expressed in byline articles. Articles may be used by
other CLCA chapter newsletters, giving proper credit to
their source.
2 • May 2010
fun. Oh yeah, I forgot to mention that the
Hertzer and Girvin Peters. One of my
By Rick Camin, Camin Landscaping
helps make possible the Golf Tournament, Garden Tour, Dinner Meetings, Awards Night,
Arborwell • Bamboo Pipeline • Landmark Landscapes
STUDENT CLUB PRESIDENT
VAL VANCE
BAY BREEZE EDITOR
JERRIE BEARD
Jerrie Beard & Associates
P
artners for
board meeting, and when the work is over,
A Message from the President
CLCA San Francisco Bay Area Chapter
so proud to have Mary in our chapter.
Thank you Mary!
But the biggest surprise and best kept
secret is the fun the Women's Auxiliary has
the Holiday Party, both of which have
together. As president, it was an honor for
provided my family with some of our best
me to be invited to their board meetings
memories. At the Chapter Picnic, I was
where I was very impressed with their
completely shocked when my wife Marina
agenda and calendar of events. Lesley
and I came in second place at the horseshoe
Peters is a great president, and I really
competition two years ago. I have been
appreciate all her hard work and dedication
married to Marina for almost seventeen
to our chapter. She runs a very organized
www.clcasfba.org
May 2010 • 3
T
he Board Meets
By Larry Scott
The SFBA Chapter
board met March 25, at
Peninsula Building
sharing of your years of experience truly
Membership
Chanda Stewart of Foothill College
Wins Design Competition!
Charlene Ott reported that the Chapter
James Walker reported that the Membership
By James Walker, Landsculpt
•Heidi Johnson, Heidi Johnson Assoc.
Picnic will be held at Coyote Point in San
Dinner will be at a new venue -- Poplar
Mateo in early September.
Creek Golf Grill in San Mateo.
by James Walker, seconded by Leslie Peters
on April 2, 2010. Possible delay in project
to approve the report. Motion passed.
start date due to recipient’s funding issues.
Women’s Auxiliary
Education
Bay Breeze
month, Brandon, David and I fielded
the Foothill College Horticulture Club
questions from the competitors and their
program, club treasurer Brandon Stewart
mentors. Brandon collected the completed
•Glenn Hanson, Anjou Garden Design
•Ian Harris, Harris Landscaping
•Allison Olson, DreamScapes
Nate Crosby reported that the Brown Bag
Rick Camin reported on upgrading the
(no relation to our winner), suggested a
designs as well as material lists and
Meeting Called to Order at 5:50 p.m. by
Lunches are continuing on the first Tuesday
“Bay Breeze” and passed out a couple of
design competition. Electricity enlivened
estimated labor hour lists. Wow! Every plan
of each month. Possibility of including
Roll Call
Green Gardener Certification Program for
Nate Crosby, Bob Kirtley, Charlene Ott,
Kevin Burns, Leslie Peters, Jim Everett,
James Walker, Rick Camin, Valerie Vance,
Barry Cohen, Rob Leuer, Michael MitchellCPC North Co-Chair, Andrew Simpson-
interested chapter members.
Foothill College Horticulture Student
Peters made a motion, seconded by Barry
Cohen, to approve minutes. Motion passed.
Treasurers Report
Nate Crosby presented the February 2010
Treasurer’s report for review. Motion made
Awards
challenging time choosing the winner.
•Tom Ellington, Coast Management
•Astrid Gaiser, Astrid Gaiser Designs
Bob Kirtley reported on the project entry
competition, students learning, greater
Using a point system that David devised,
deadline and is seeking a couple of judges.
membership participation, contractors and
we came up with the three which best
designers working together as mentors.
fulfilled our criteria.
upcoming club meetings and events.
Rick Camin reported that a few golf courses
Minutes
Board Meeting minutes for review. Leslie
was fantastic! David Sauter and I had a
Golf Tournament
Rob Leuer reported the Chapter has
James Walker presented the February 2010
the group! In a flash, the rest of the concept
came to me: chapter project, design
student Chapter Project Design Contest and
Partners For Success
•Jeff Sheehan, Confidence Landscaping
•Janet Enright, Janet Enright & Assoc.
newsletters from other chapters to review.
Club President Val Vance reported on the
CLCA State Director of Chapter Services.
Mentor Appreciation List
•Michael Gladden, McLintock Landscapes
While contemplating how to breath life into
Materials, Mountain View Showroom.
Rick Camin, chapter president.
enhanced your student’s education.
are being considered for the late September
or early October chapter golf tournament.
•Clifton Randolph, Gachina Landscape Mgt
•Kristen Rudger, Penninsula Green Gardener
•Simon Parrott, Colony Landscape
Brandon was eager to join me in this
At Foothill College, everyone came
•Julie Orr, Julie Orr Designs
endeavor! We received the support of the
together to view the students’ fantastic
Horticulture Program instructors David
work, enjoy a barbeque and find out the
Sauter and Dan Svenson who both
winner! Second runner up is Olga
•Doug Miller, Gjentara
•Carol Miller, Stepping Stone Landscape
•Cristine Mortensen, Cristine Mortensen
collected approximately 60% of payments
Garden Tour
embraced the concept. David Sauter said he
Chudnovsy, mentored by designer Rick
from committed partners. He is reviewing
Rick Camin reported that the Garden Tour
would be willing to not only develop the
Fath and contractor Nate Crosby. First
the success of the San Diego Chapter
will be held some time in August.
judging criteria but also to join me as judge.
runner up is Jane Burgunder with designer
program to increase PFS income.
Additions
Design
•Frank Niccolli, The Village Gardener
•Carol Scheetz, Carol Scheetz Designs
Brandon and I developed an extensive 9
Janet Enright and contractor Craig Rapp.
•Larry Scott, Integrity Landscapes
Chapter Project
Jim Everett reported that he will soon be
page design competition information
package for the 20 students who signed up.
is Chanda Stewart. She was kindly
James Walker reported that the Foothill
organizing the Past President’s Council
meeting and asked for his budget.
Next we found 40 mentors: 20 awesome
supported by designer Glenn Hanson and
College Design contest will be completed
R. Camin adjourned the meeting 8:10 p.m.
Finally our winner with an amazing design
•Jessie Klinker, Jessie Klinker Landscape
Design
•Bob Waterman, GardenWood
world class contractors and 20 talented and
contractor Ian Harris.
•Maryanne Quincy, Q Gardens
open hearted garden designers. Brandon
All of the designs were recently
•Mervyn Salt, Mervyn Salt Landscapes
and I randomly linked the teams of three
displayed at our Membership Appreciation
based on zip code and, on Astrid Gaiser’s
Dinner on April 15, and the 3 winners were
sage advice, placed a 5 hour maximum limit
honored with warm applause.
•Janice Elliott, Umbel Design
•Rick Camin, Camin Landscape
•Rick Fath, Rick Fath Designs
on each mentor’s assistance. As Chapter
Unfortunately, for financial reasons, our
•Nate Crosby, Crosby Yard Services
Project chairman, I chose a project brought
proposed May 15, Chapter Project build day
to me by Mike Hertzer of Modern
has been delayed until, hopefully, the fall
•Peigi Duval, Indig Design
•Frank Manoccio, Land Escapes
Landscaping -- building an outdoor science
sometime. I will keep you all posted.
•Karen Hunt, San Carlos Garden Works
classroom at Holy Spirit School in San Jose.
I would like to give special thanks to
•Jim Everett, Evland
Dave Sauter and I played the role of
Rick Camin, Jim Everett, Tom Ellington and
•Lisa Parramore, Hanabie’ Japanese Garden
client by expressing the general but
John Gachina for their extra special efforts.
absolute elements that must be included in
And thank you again to all the mentors.
each student’s design. Over a period of a
Your generous time and open hearted
Design
•Mike Hertzer, Modern Landscaping
4 • May 2010
CLCA San Francisco Bay Area Chapter
www.clcasfba.org
May 2010 • 5
W
omen’s Auxiliary Report
Tickets are $10 each and are available for
37th Annual Awards Program!
sale prior to the awards banquet by
By Bob Kirtley
contacting any Women’s Auxiliary
Did everyone make it to Membership
The Women’s Auxiliary will hold our
member or you may purchase tickets the
Night in April? What a fun evening!
annual raffle benefiting LEAF (Landscape
evening of the banquet. Here’s to pulling
Thank you James Walker for organizing
Educational Advancement Foundation) at
your winning ticket on June 5!
the event, introducing us to your Dad and
the Awards Banquet Saturday, June 5, at
putting a new spin on the Chapter Project:
the University Club of Palo Alto. Vicky
meeting, Wednesday, May 19 at
a design competition for Foothill College
Parrott and Diana Whitney have been
Beausejour French Restaurant in
students. We saw an impressive display of
hard at work organizing the raffle and
downtown Los Altos. All are welcome to
work from future Green Industry
putting together some terrific prizes.
attend. Please contact me at 650-941-4093
members.
•Grand Prize: A getaway to the Cavallo
We also raised $280 in the College
Point Lodge at Fort Baker in Sausalito
Enrichment raffle. Thank you Alice
and dinner for 2 at Murray Circle,
Domine for selling tickets and making the
sponsored by CLCA.
basket won by Girvin Peters. Thank you
•2nd Prize: Dinner for two at the Left
also to Fred Hanker of Delta Bluegrass for
Bank Brasserie in San Jose at Santana
the donation of 3 boxes of delicious
Row, Menlo Park or Larkspur, sponsored
asparagus and to James Walker for
by CLCA.
supplying way too many extra gifts to
keep track of the winners. Everyone was a
winner! Thank you everyone who has
supported our dinner meeting raffles over
the years.
The LEAF raffle is almost upon us!
•3rd Prize: LEAF raffle basket, sponsored
by Vivian and Craig Rapp
•4th Prize: Wine Tasting Basket,
sponsored by Vicky and Simon Parrott
•5th Prize: Four tickets to Gilroy Gardens
Theme Park, donated by Gilroy Gardens.
Please join us at our next Auxiliary
or gpland@sbcglobal.net if you have not
received an invitation and would like to
attend.
First, I want to thank everyone who has participated in this year’s
awards program!
The judging will be held on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday, May 6,
7, and 8. All properties will need to be accessible to our judges, or the
entry will be disqualified. It is very important to remember – do not be
on site; do not have any identifying signs, trailers, tags, permits, etc.
available where the judges could possibly see them. Also, please
instruct your client not to mention the great contractor who did this
wonderful work. I know they can get enthusiastic, but it would cost
you a potential award if they say anything to the judges. We go to
extreme lengths to keep the entering contractor’s name anonymous to
ensure unbiased judging, and fair consideration for all entries.
Happy Birthday in May to: Heidy
Coaz on May 3, Mike Hertzer on May 5,
Pat Coney on May 7, Sally Coverdell on
The Luau is on Saturday evening, June 5th, at the University Club
of Palo Alto. This will be an Hawaiian themed party; casual and
comfortable! Let’s hope the weather cooperates.
May 11, Jill Hertzer on May 19, Ellie
Join us at
The University Club of Palo Alto
3277 Miranda Ave., Palo Alto
Hayes on May 20, Marina Camin,
Charlene Ott and Jon Singley on May 24,
Linda Fox on May 29 and Brigitte
for the CLCA SFBA Hawaiian Buffet/Banquet! Aloha!
Lehmann on May 31. Wow! Enjoy your
Saturday, June 5th, 2010
special day!
Lesley Peters
gpland@sbcglobal.net • 650-941-4093
From 5pm until we close it up • Cost: $85 per person
Bob Kirtley, R.A.Kirtley & Associates, Inc.
Awards Chair (408)264-8608, or e-mail at: bob@rakirtleylandscape.com
6 • May 2010
CLCA San Francisco Bay Area Chapter
www.clcasfba.org
May 2010 • 7
on the outdoor patio at 5:00 pm spending an
Chairman led the proceedings. Ken
Chalk One Up for the
Good Guys!
Coverdale presented a life membership
By Kevin Burns, Maximum Service Landscape Inc.
hour relaxing and visiting. James Walker,
our Vice President and Membership
award to Zack Coney followed by Girvin
A group of licensed landscape contractors fed up with the
Peters presenting a life membership award
unlicensed operators and others fueling the underground
to Ken Coverdale. Not to be outdone, the
economy staged a civil protest on April 19, at the San Mateo
great Ernst Lehmann then bestowed a 45-
County Superior Court Northern Branch in South San Francisco
year membership pin on Camille
on April 19. I was interviewed by Randall Yip, reporter for ABC 7
Domine of Western Landscaping.
Above: Zach Coney receives his
Life Membership award from Ken
Coverdell
A 20-year membership pin was
given to Jolee Horne, and Vic
On Your Side, who was at the courthouse to cover a story he’s
been following about an unlicensed landscape operator who took
advantage of an elderly gentleman living in Hillsborough, CA.
Thomas received his 15-year pin.
Above: James Walker presents Mary Lyngso
with a bouquet of roses.
10-year pins were given to Mike
Hertzer, Michelle Chu, Mervyn
Ediberto Heredia was found guilty of charges and worked out a
plea bargain with the District Attorney. He was ordered to
pay in excess of $114,000.00 restitution to the plaintiff.
Salt, and Rich Radford. Finally
A group of CLCA landscape contractors including
Glen Hanson received his
Michael and Kim Gladden, Catherine Greer, Bill Buchin,
illustrious 5-year membership
pin. Thanks for all your help with the
Above: New member
John Vega and his
daughter.
awards program this year Glen!!
To round out the evening, Dave Sauter
outside the courtroom in San
with protest signs and lots of enthusiasm. The story airred
Mateo County.
on April 19, on ABC Channel 7 six o’clock news.
At left: Kevin Burns is
enforcement of contractor law rather than having
College Student Horticulture Club’s Chapter
and members of the CLCA San
Francisco Bay Area Chapter
Kevin Burns, Bob and Grace Kirtley and Jim Link gathered
Now we need to keep up the work to encourage local
and Brandon Stewart presented the Foothill
Above: Kevin Burns (far right)
interviewed by Randall Yip of
ABC 7 On Your Side.
enforcement deferred to state agencies who are logistically
Project Design Competition Awards. Out of
unable to address complaints timely enough to catch
20 entrants, Chanda Stewart was honored
Above: Vic Thomas receives his 20 year pin
from James Walker.
for her first place entry for the outdoor
unlicensed operators in the act.
science classroom design. Olga Chudnovsky
was first runner up and Jane Burgunder
received second runner up honors.
Congratulations to all the entrants, and
special thanks to the
40 mentors who
guided and
counseled the
student competitors
(see page 5).
Center: Ken Coverdell receives his Life
Membership award from Girvin Peters.
Above: From President to President with love.
Woman’s Auxiliary President Leslie Peters
presents Chapter President Rick Camin with his
Presidential Scrapbook.
At left: James Walker with Charlene Ott, one of the
lucky raffle winners.
Above: James Walker presents new member
Chad Sutton of Watersavers with a case of
asparagus.
License No. 0755906
Ron E. Pohndorf
Account Executive
Juan Gonzalez
(209) 810-3992
jgonzalez@agsod.com
12750 Guard Rd.
Lodi CA 95242
(800) 588-6882
www.agsod.com
Growers of Quality Bluegrass, Fescue & Bermuda Sod
8 • May 2010
LANDSCAPE CONTRACTORS INSURANCE SERVICES INC.
1835 North Fine Avenue • Fresno, California 93727-1617
(559) 297-9484 • (800) 628-8735 • FAX (559) 297-4558
email: insure@lcisinc.com
CLCA San Francisco Bay Area Chapter
www.clcasfba.org
May 2010 • 9
grips the ground; and other elements
calling upon you again for your support. It
Student Spotlight:
Design Chosen for the
Chapter Project!
By Valerie Vance, Foothill College Student Club President
Deciduous trees in winter, with this kind
is a great opportunity for the students to
unique to that particular plant. We guide it
of architecture stand out creating beautiful
learn of the many different kinds of
by pruning to reveal its greatest beauty over
lines in winter with what we call ‘the winter
businesses out there, from the old dudes to
time. This is why it is sometimes referred to
silhouette’.
the new and the small to the huge. Once a
as sculptural pruning. It is actually
All woody plants and trees can benefit
date is decided, I encourage everyone to
sculpting and training the plant to grow in
from this type of pruning - whether
I am happy to announce that the Hort
inner design. Every
attend. A little advice should always be
a particular way, still in its particular habit,
deciduous or evergreen….. even a fruit tree
Club's Design Competition for the Chapter
detail was seen to,
welcome. There is a fair sized group of
but in a specific direction and with specific
can be pruned aesthetically and provide
Project was a success. We had a lot of great
and the overall outcome of the plan was
students in the program this year that are
parameters that work for the unique garden
ample fruit.
entries, and everyone's work came out
impressive and pleasing to look at. Jane was
looking to do contractor work. This is an
or space in which it resides. This is mostly
really wonderful. Dave Sauter and James
able to capture a real sense of joy and space
Important to Note
opportunity to get to know them and
done by the skilled elimination of what is
Walker were the judges for the contest and
in her plan. The use of sail overhead
maybe employ them or at least encourage
not needed and the skilled training of what
spent hours reviewing our submittals. Dave
structures were affordable and aesthetically
them to get licensed.
remains. It is over time that this happens as
carefully wrote out evaluations for us all
pleasing. Olga had, in my opinion, one of
and presented our plans to the participants
the best color-rendered plans. It is a work of
at the BBQ on Wednesday, April 7.
art that could be hung in a gallery.
We had quite a turn out for the BBQ,
the tree or plant grows and matures.
As always, I can be reached at
Though seen in Japanese Gardens, it works
vjvance@gmail.com
well for many styles of garden.
I thank all of the mentors for donating
To describe a possible effect, think of a
with almost equal quantities of mentors and
their time even those whose contestants
Mature BlackPine - pruned over time. Hakone
students. And delicious food. Everyone was
dropped out. Your support is valued and
Gardens, Saratoga, CA.
a buzz with excitement and enjoyed looking
we appreciate the offer. At one point, we
at all the work.
had 25 student contestants, which means
And the winners are...
we convinced 25 contractor and 25 designer
•1st place goes to Chanda Stewart. Her
mentors were designer Glenn Hanson of
Anjou Garden Design and contractor Ian
Harris of Harris Landscaping.
•2nd place winner is Jane Burgunder. Her
mentors were designer Janet Enright of
Janet Enright & Assoc. and contractor Tom
Ellington of Coast Management.
•3rd place winner is Olga Chudnovsky. Her
mentors were designer Rick Fath of Rick
Fath Designs and contractor Nate Crosby
of Crosby Yard Services.
All three of these ladies put in tons of
extra effort, and it showed in their work.
Chanda's design was excellently researched
and had idea call outs surrounding the
Course to Fine:
flowers and foliage, the flowers are
beautiful but the whole bush feels like one
big mass. Now try to picture how that
you. Brandon Stewart was the student in
The Art and Science of
Aesthetic Pruning
the flowers show up more as well as the
charge of running the show, and he did it
By Judy Maier, Judy’s Gardens & Design
leaves – it looks lacy and more
mentors! That's huge. Thank you. Thank
fantastically and kept his cool under all the
camellia would look if there were delicate
spaces between the leaves and the branches,
approachable. You can see through the tree
questions sent his way. I'd also like to give
The beauty of a finely pruned tree can take
thanks to my own mentors Mike Hertzer
one’s breath away. But what is it that makes
and Lisa Parramore for helping me out and
a tree stand out in this way? The answer is
Mike for getting the school as the location
explored in depth in a comprehensive field
for the chapter project.
of study and specialization called ‘aesthetic
pruning,’ which combines both science and
We are all looking forward to build day,
hopefully in the fall. It should be a great
art in working with ornamental trees and
event just as it was last year. Its always nice
shrubs. Other adjectives sometimes used to
to see so many people working together.
describe this field are ‘fine,’ ‘sculptural,’
And the food was good too.
‘specialty’ pruning. It is a specialization that
is not well known yet, but is growing –
Our club is going to be holding a
particularly in the Bay Area.
contractor forum in early June. We will be
The difference in the results over time
for the trees, the garden and the viewer can
be remarkable.
10 • May 2010
camellia bush that is very thick with
CLCA San Francisco Bay Area Chapter
to the other side creating a depth of field,
and possibly some of the beautiful
branching structure is revealed. This would
look like a completely different plant – and
it would be in terms of its health and
beauty.
Now picture a Japanese Maple. It is fully
leafed out with a bulky density of leaves
and shoots. You know these leaves are
beautiful, but you can’t really see them in
such a mass and there are so many branches
– some shooting straight up in the air. Now
picture the same tree with delicate tapering
branches – the tree has lovely layers with
spaces between to let light in, the leaves no
The Essence of a Tree
longer look like one big mass, they have
An aesthetic pruner looks for what we call
been thinned out and can now dance and
the ‘essence’ of a tree or plant and the plan
shimmer in the wind with the play of light
for it over time in the garden – especially if
passing through them. The leaves are more
it is a focal point. The plant’s essence
defined because there are less of them. It is
includes its structural form and potential;
neither an accident nor completely the luck
its ‘leanings’ (literally and figuratively); as
of the draw that some maples have a
well as the color, shape and texture of
beautiful look and others do not (though
wood, bark, roots, leaves, flowers, fruit; its
choosing a healthy tree with good potential
form coming out of the ground; how it
structure to begin with is a great start!).
www.clcasfba.org
As well as aesthetics, this kind of fine
pruning is based on horticultural
knowledge of plants and their needs: When,
how much and the correct way to prune;
understanding of light and sun
requirements, particular water needs,
making sure the plant is not planted too
deeply (a common problem), the
understanding of, prevention of and
holistic treatment of disease; nourishment
for plants and soil including mulch,
compost and compost tea; understanding of
micro-climates, spacial considerations,
common sense and much more.
Just as in a theatre play, not every actor
gets to be the star - yet without the
supporting cast, the play would not be
effective or even possible - so in a garden,
not all plants get to be the focal point. This
would be exhausting to the eyes and would
not make for a harmonious, peaceful
environment. Some plants are needed for a
sense of structure and support and create
the contrast or backdrop for the ‘stars’ of
the garden. This creates drama… allowing
some things to recede while others pop and
come forward. Each plays a part in the
whole, vital, living, breathing picture and
design. During different seasons, the
emphasis may change according to the
habits of the plants. The intention of the
fine or aesthetic pruner is to be aware of all
these things while working
Judy Maier of Judy’s Gardens & Design is a
Landscape Designer, Aesthetic Pruner, Garden
Coach and artist based in the South Bay,
working all over the San Francisco Bay Area
including the Monterey Peninsula. She is is
member of CLCA, APLD and the Merritt
College Aesthetic Pruning Club, a group of
Aesthetic Pruners.
May 2010 • 11
FIRST CLASS
PRESORTED
PERMIT #14
SHINGLE SPRINGS, CA
95682
San Francisco
Bay Area Chapter
CLCA
California Landscape Contractors Association
San Francisco Bay Area Chapter
1024 Simon Dr., Ste. F
Placerville CA 95667
CHANGE SERVICE REQUESTED
Building Materials, Mountain View.
SFBA Chapter
June 2010
1 Brown bag lunch meeting - noon to
26 Chapter Board BBQ. TBA.
Visit the chapter website often at
www.clcasfba.org for updates.
1 pm. See chapter website.
5 Chapter Awards Banquet.
Events
May 2010
4 Brown bag lunch meeting - noon to
University Club, Palo Alto. See p. 7.
8 Education Committee Meeting. For
SFBA Chapter
Scholarship Funds
details, contact Nate Crosby at
The SFBA Chapter has established
(408) 417-5137.
several scholarship funds through the
24 Chapter Board meeting, 5 p.m.
Landscape Educational Advancement
1 pm. Location varies by month. See
social, 5:30 p.m. meeting. Peninsula
Foundation (LEAF). Following are the
chapter website for details.
Building Materials, Mountain View.
fund balances.
6-8 Chapter Awards Judging.
11 Education Committee Meeting. For
details, contact Nate Crosby at
(408) 417-5137.
13 Dinner meeting. Sunil Bhaskaran on
time management. 5:00 P.M.
Cocktails and social hour. Dinner
6:15 P.M; Program 7:00 P.M. Celia’s
Mexican Restaurant; 1850 El
Camino Real, Menlo Park. See p. 1.
23 Bonsai Society of San Francisco
presents a celebration of its 50th
Anniversary at the County Fair
Building, Ninth Ave. and Lincoln
Way, Golden Gate Park. Bonsai
Show and Sale. 10 am-4 pm.
Admission Free.
27 Chapter Board meeting, 5 p.m.
social, 5:30 p.m. meeting. Peninsula
July 2010
6 Brown bag lunch meeting - noon to
1 pm. See chapter website.
13 Education Committee Meeting. For
details, contact Nate Crosby at
(408) 417-5137.
21-24 CLCA Summer Family
Extravaganza. San Jose. Visit
www.clca.us/summer.
29 Chapter Board meeting, 5 p.m.
social, 5:30 p.m. meeting. Peninsula
Building Materials, Mountain View.
August 2010
3 Brown bag lunch meeting - noon to
1 pm. See chapter website.
10 Education Committee Meeting. For
details, contact Nate Crosby at
(408) 417-5137.
SFBA Chapter
$ 5,164.95
John Lyngso Honorarium
$10,811.94
Herbert Frank Memorial
$15,975.00
Hans Biland Memorial
$10,425.00
Bill Hayes Memorial
$13,205.00
G. Kunimoto Memorial
$11,870.00
Ken Jenner Memorial
$11,917.15
Paul Shogren Memorial
$15,770.43
Edron Schneider Memorial $10,950.00
To make a donation to one of these
funds or establish a fund of your own,
send a check payable to "LEAF" to:
CLCA Headquarters
1491 River Park Drive, #100
Sacramento, CA 95815-8899
or contact Mary Cohen-LEAF Chair at
(408) 867-7746. Please indicate which
fund you would like to support.