tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-340780882024-03-12T19:38:47.329-07:00Eberly PRJeff Collardhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06990590056441777858noreply@blogger.comBlogger35125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34078088.post-29396991170128360942009-07-07T10:45:00.000-07:002009-07-07T10:51:43.239-07:00Visit Our New Blog<meta equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=utf-8"><meta name="ProgId" content="Word.Document"><meta name="Generator" content="Microsoft Word 11"><meta name="Originator" content="Microsoft Word 11"><link rel="File-List" href="file:///C:%5CDOCUME%7E1%5CLKirk%5CLOCALS%7E1%5CTemp%5Cmsohtml1%5C01%5Cclip_filelist.xml"><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:worddocument> <w:view>Normal</w:View> <w:zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:punctuationkerning/> <w:validateagainstschemas/> <w:saveifxmlinvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid> <w:ignoremixedcontent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent> <w:alwaysshowplaceholdertext>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText> <w:compatibility> <w:breakwrappedtables/> <w:snaptogridincell/> <w:wraptextwithpunct/> <w:useasianbreakrules/> <w:dontgrowautofit/> </w:Compatibility> <w:browserlevel>MicrosoftInternetExplorer4</w:BrowserLevel> </w:WordDocument> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:latentstyles deflockedstate="false" latentstylecount="156"> </w:LatentStyles> </xml><![endif]--><style> <!-- /* Style Definitions */ p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal {mso-style-parent:""; margin:0in; margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:11.0pt; font-family:Arial; mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman"; color:black; mso-bidi-font-weight:bold;} a:link, span.MsoHyperlink {color:blue; text-decoration:underline; text-underline:single;} a:visited, span.MsoHyperlinkFollowed {color:purple; text-decoration:underline; text-underline:single;} @page Section1 {size:8.5in 11.0in; margin:1.0in 1.25in 1.0in 1.25in; mso-header-margin:.5in; mso-footer-margin:.5in; mso-paper-source:0;} div.Section1 {page:Section1;} --> </style><!--[if gte mso 10]> <style> /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:10.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-ansi-language:#0400; mso-fareast-language:#0400; mso-bidi-language:#0400;} </style> <![endif]--> <p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-size:85%;">We are excited to share that our blog has moved to <a href="http://www.eberlycollardpr.blogspot.com/">www.eberlycollardpr.blogspot.com</a> in conjunction with our new company name:</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-size:85%;">
<br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-size:85%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_wCJsy7Q9ojlYERS1O4lKFeJ6SUJFl0rqpRg7Tf0Z3f2YpSJbiXSEu03RgezVHHBJn_1qJWgTMVxm5Pbmcx9eTuleOFWDpikGEeergo7AelJliiFJsUXiid_1iJvB5ii4uZ0J/s1600-h/Eberly+%26+Collard+PR+Logo.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 285px; height: 65px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_wCJsy7Q9ojlYERS1O4lKFeJ6SUJFl0rqpRg7Tf0Z3f2YpSJbiXSEu03RgezVHHBJn_1qJWgTMVxm5Pbmcx9eTuleOFWDpikGEeergo7AelJliiFJsUXiid_1iJvB5ii4uZ0J/s320/Eberly+%26+Collard+PR+Logo.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5355776620835398946" border="0" /></a></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-size:85%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-size:85%;">
<br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-size:85%;">Same great information on all things home, garden, design, and agribusiness, but with a new look. We invite you to visit our new ECPR blog, and we look forward to hearing from you!</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-size:85%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-size:85%;">
<br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-size:85%;">~Leslie</span></p> Leslie Kirkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08709744875570352252noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34078088.post-26785085231640391482009-06-17T07:33:00.000-07:002009-06-17T07:47:26.075-07:00Silver Vase, Inc. Gives Back to Its Community<meta name="ProgId" content="Word.Document"><meta name="Generator" content="Microsoft Word 11"><meta name="Originator" content="Microsoft Word 11"><link rel="File-List" href="file:///C:%5CDOCUME%7E1%5CLKirk%5CLOCALS%7E1%5CTemp%5Cmsohtml1%5C01%5Cclip_filelist.xml"><o:smarttagtype namespaceuri="urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:smarttags" name="PlaceType"></o:smarttagtype><o:smarttagtype namespaceuri="urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:smarttags" name="PlaceName"></o:smarttagtype><o:smarttagtype namespaceuri="urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:smarttags" name="place"></o:smarttagtype><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:worddocument> <w:view>Normal</w:View> <w:zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:punctuationkerning/> <w:validateagainstschemas/> <w:saveifxmlinvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid> <w:ignoremixedcontent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent> <w:alwaysshowplaceholdertext>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText> <w:compatibility> <w:breakwrappedtables/> <w:snaptogridincell/> <w:wraptextwithpunct/> <w:useasianbreakrules/> <w:dontgrowautofit/> </w:Compatibility> <w:browserlevel>MicrosoftInternetExplorer4</w:BrowserLevel> </w:WordDocument> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:latentstyles deflockedstate="false" latentstylecount="156"> </w:LatentStyles> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if !mso]><object classid="clsid:38481807-CA0E-42D2-BF39-B33AF135CC4D" id="ieooui"></object> <style> st1\:*{behavior:url(#ieooui) } </style> <![endif]--><style> <!-- /* Style Definitions */ p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal {mso-style-parent:""; margin:0in; margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:11.0pt; font-family:Arial; mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman"; color:black; mso-bidi-font-weight:bold;} @page Section1 {size:8.5in 11.0in; margin:1.0in 1.25in 1.0in 1.25in; mso-header-margin:.5in; mso-footer-margin:.5in; mso-paper-source:0;} div.Section1 {page:Section1;} --> </style><!--[if gte mso 10]> <style> /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:10.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-ansi-language:#0400; mso-fareast-language:#0400; mso-bidi-language:#0400;} </style> <![endif]--> <p class="MsoNormal"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj78YWjMDfbC9_nL9Jhf5BTnp9J7N7fKJHL3b7EYELMdusyHCzNajHiSC9qqlgtODKUV6NXQPb29pWPxrSxpjq9yFrlY7MY4GrO5Wt_gG2VtpNo7Xk5mX2wjPQQP1ALzH4_vVBi/s1600-h/Pictures+008.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 96px; height: 128px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj78YWjMDfbC9_nL9Jhf5BTnp9J7N7fKJHL3b7EYELMdusyHCzNajHiSC9qqlgtODKUV6NXQPb29pWPxrSxpjq9yFrlY7MY4GrO5Wt_gG2VtpNo7Xk5mX2wjPQQP1ALzH4_vVBi/s200/Pictures+008.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5348306585309985074" border="0" /></a><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:85%;" ><a href="http://www.silvervase.com/">Silver Vase, Inc.</a>, a leading grower of orchids and bromeliads, has recently reached out to non-profit, philanthropic organizations as a way of giving back to the community the company’s employees call home. Here are just two recent sponsorships worth mentioning…</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-size:85%;">
<br /></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-size:85%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-size:85%;">A recent event sponsored by the Florida Nursery, Growers </span><span style="font-size:85%;">and Landscape Association (<a href="http://www.fngla.org/">FNGLA</a>) in Tallahassee, Fla., hoped to boost recognition </span><span style="font-size:85%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2jN0hpGlSIY0Zl0Sw5VM4Rsj7ies8Kx8IMvNRN7cnGwrFZzxHHez0U50Tl3F0hqfuWxbnaaqEK-vDYjyUqoRZaQZOWB8C559YLACOdDx-SS4zfeNyqI9jt_uMaFhW1b9MEGnj/s1600-h/IMG_0482.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 190px; height: 145px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2jN0hpGlSIY0Zl0Sw5VM4Rsj7ies8Kx8IMvNRN7cnGwrFZzxHHez0U50Tl3F0hqfuWxbnaaqEK-vDYjyUqoRZaQZOWB8C559YLACOdDx-SS4zfeNyqI9jt_uMaFhW1b9MEGnj/s200/IMG_0482.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5348306445301706114" border="0" /></a></span><span style="font-size:85%;">for the horticulture industry through education and political leadership. Silver Vase, Inc. donated hundreds of exotic plants to help decorate the event as a way of supporting the importance of beautifying the Earth through the floriculture and horticulture industries.
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<br /></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-size:85%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-size:85%;">Silver Vase, Inc. was also a proud sponsor of</span><span style="font-size:85%;"> this year’s 7<sup>th</sup> Annual FedEx / St. Jude Angels and Stars Gala for the <a href="http://www.stjude.org/stjude/v/index.jsp?vgnextoid=f2bfab46cb118010VgnVCM1000000e2015acRCRD">St. Jude Children’s <st1:place st="on"><st1:placename st="on">Research</st1:placename> <st1:placetype st="on">Hospital</st1:placetype></st1:place></a>. The event was a great success according to event </span><span style="font-size:85%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjP_uHV2WLKDiJOw0X2lA8DtCroux9_-aLRRLvtNkk69u6mQC_YMEbmCOU8pYPwTy9nRMcYThYB5Pc-Yto1pz7p_nfpa_2FCs4Svd4y-Jsri0KY-2brVjiip2jsfv5r-WF8LwQu/s1600-h/FinalThankyouevite.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 186px; height: 85px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjP_uHV2WLKDiJOw0X2lA8DtCroux9_-aLRRLvtNkk69u6mQC_YMEbmCOU8pYPwTy9nRMcYThYB5Pc-Yto1pz7p_nfpa_2FCs4Svd4y-Jsri0KY-2brVjiip2jsfv5r-WF8LwQu/s200/FinalThankyouevite.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5348306679553050914" border="0" /></a></span><span style="font-size:85%;">specialist, Paola Cassana, and helped keep Danny Thomas’ dream alive that, “No child should die in the dawn of life.” St. Jude Children’s <st1:place st="on"><st1:placename st="on">Research</st1:placename> <st1:placetype st="on">Hospital</st1:placetype></st1:place> is renowned for its contributions to finding cures for cancer and other diseases that affect children through cutting-edge research as well as providing superior patient care under one roof.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-size:85%;">
<br /></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-size:85%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-size:85%;">During a tough time for many of us… it’s nice to hear a few heart-warming stories.
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<br /></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-size:85%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-size:85%;">~ Leslie</span></p> Leslie Kirkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08709744875570352252noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34078088.post-57489542379598266712009-06-16T08:19:00.000-07:002009-06-16T08:34:54.318-07:00Never Too Late for a Good Thing<span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-family:arial;">So, it was spring… and then you blinked your eyes (It’s okay, I did, too), and now it’s practically summer.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">You’ve probably added a few new plant delights to the garden, watched a few of your perennials re-bloom, and maybe added an accessory or two. But, all of a sudden it’s mid-JUNE (what exactly happened to May, I wonder?), and the garden is just not quite yet where you want it to be. I know mine is definitely not.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">Well, don’t worry. There’s still plenty of plant material available at your local garden center that will survive the heat of summer. In fact, some plants can still provide blooms for months to come and even bring you a burst of fall interest.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">A theme with me lately is selecting plants that are bred and trialed specifically for my region. It’s just a good indicator that the plants you purchase will really flourish in your unique climate. Some national plant brands do test their products all over the U.S. and can be trusted to offer quality plant material that will thrive in multiple climates. Oftentimes, a local grower is a great way to go when purchasing reliable plants just for your garden.</span><br /><br /><a style="font-family: arial;" href="http://www.gardensplendor.com/">Garden Splendor</a><span style="font-family:arial;"> is a regional plant brand that selects and grows only the best plants for the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic regions available at local independent garden centers. I know them well, since I help assess and write about these plants.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">Garden Splendor even has a special yearly plant line it identifies as Showcase Varieties which epitomize the best of breeding and beauty in a plant for their region. This year, the horticulturists have selected eight such plants deemed worthy of this title:</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">1. </span><a style="font-family: arial;" href="http://www.gardensplendor.com/corp/sorbaria-sem.html">Sorbaria sorbifolia 'Sem'</a><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">2. </span><a style="font-family: arial;" href="http://www.gardensplendor.com/corp/dicentra-candy-hearts.html">Dicentra 'Candy Hearts'</a><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">3. </span><a style="font-family: arial;" href="http://www.gardensplendor.com/corp/echinacea-tiki-torch.html">Echinacea 'Tiki Torch'</a><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">4. </span><a style="font-family: arial;" href="http://www.gardensplendor.com/corp/plantinfo.asp?plantid=001541">Penstemon 'Red Riding Hood’</a><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">5. </span><a style="font-family: arial;" href="http://www.gardensplendor.com/corp/phlox-peppermint-twist.html">Phlox paniculata 'Peppermint Twist'</a><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">6. </span><a style="font-family: arial;" href="http://www.gardensplendor.com/corp/salvia-eveline.html">Salvia 'Eveline'</a><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">7. </span><a style="font-family: arial;" href="http://www.gardensplendor.com/corp/sedum-angelina.html">Sedum rupestre 'Angelina'</a><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">8. </span><a style="font-family: arial;" href="http://www.gardensplendor.com/corp/plantinfo.asp?plantid=001585">Veronica 'Purpleicious'</a><br /><br /><a style="font-family: arial;" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5yUgcnfOje4TO9DCpGoNeh9d0OziFUAfehVFc-Pz9E8MKPG6MR-F7GbbnInDtjxXv8K0qUOR8JwxkYPl31EWrCyua-CePeR7VuJqfO6h2LJp7neOyMDxPSwcALjxgL6DbmdJQ/s1600-h/Echinacea+%27Tiki+Torch%27+-+Photo+%282%29.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 145px; height: 217px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5yUgcnfOje4TO9DCpGoNeh9d0OziFUAfehVFc-Pz9E8MKPG6MR-F7GbbnInDtjxXv8K0qUOR8JwxkYPl31EWrCyua-CePeR7VuJqfO6h2LJp7neOyMDxPSwcALjxgL6DbmdJQ/s320/Echinacea+%27Tiki+Torch%27+-+Photo+%282%29.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5347948045456573090" border="0" /></a><a style="font-family: arial;" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhblI9zwQBqLrdoH51SLrHhv6LudyK3fyXrrQfs3B0Yvm6DALC-OpFWzfEgmLTOe7v6xooH61eCUeeiszzHraCqFpx0ekK-hfyY9-stF7m3RP81zUCsah5t_kU4mCPIAGWRo4Ec/s1600-h/Sedum+%27Angelina%27+-+Photo+%281%29.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 225px; height: 151px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhblI9zwQBqLrdoH51SLrHhv6LudyK3fyXrrQfs3B0Yvm6DALC-OpFWzfEgmLTOe7v6xooH61eCUeeiszzHraCqFpx0ekK-hfyY9-stF7m3RP81zUCsah5t_kU4mCPIAGWRo4Ec/s320/Sedum+%27Angelina%27+-+Photo+%281%29.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5347948180312564818" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">The two images above are my favorites, the recently award-winning Echinacea ‘Tiki Torch’ (Left) and a hardy variety that provides colorful interest nearly all year, Sedum 'Angelina' (Right). However, they are all beauties, so definitely check them out. And, if you’re in the Northeast or Mid-Atlantic, listen-up for Garden Splendor on radio gardening programs such as WOR / </span><a style="font-family: arial;" href="http://www.gardenhotline.com/home.htm">Garden Hotline</a><span style="font-family:arial;"> with host, Ralph Snodsmith, and </span><a style="font-family: arial;" href="http://www.paulparent.com/">Paul Parent Gardening Club</a><span style="font-family:arial;"> with host, Paul Parent!</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">~Leslie</span></span>Leslie Kirkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08709744875570352252noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34078088.post-59385911947094447562009-06-11T09:41:00.000-07:002009-10-29T15:33:55.183-07:00Relating Plants to Spa Treatments<meta equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=utf-8"><meta name="ProgId" content="Word.Document"><meta name="Generator" content="Microsoft Word 11"><meta name="Originator" content="Microsoft Word 11"><link rel="File-List" href="file:///C:%5CDOCUME%7E1%5CLKirk%5CLOCALS%7E1%5CTemp%5Cmsohtml1%5C01%5Cclip_filelist.xml"><o:smarttagtype namespaceuri="urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:smarttags" name="State"></o:smarttagtype><o:smarttagtype namespaceuri="urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:smarttags" name="City"></o:smarttagtype><o:smarttagtype namespaceuri="urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:smarttags" name="place"></o:smarttagtype><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:worddocument> <w:view>Normal</w:View> <w:zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:punctuationkerning/> <w:validateagainstschemas/> <w:saveifxmlinvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid> <w:ignoremixedcontent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent> <w:alwaysshowplaceholdertext>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText> <w:compatibility> <w:breakwrappedtables/> <w:snaptogridincell/> <w:wraptextwithpunct/> <w:useasianbreakrules/> <w:dontgrowautofit/> </w:Compatibility> <w:browserlevel>MicrosoftInternetExplorer4</w:BrowserLevel> </w:WordDocument> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:latentstyles deflockedstate="false" latentstylecount="156"> </w:LatentStyles> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if !mso]><object classid="clsid:38481807-CA0E-42D2-BF39-B33AF135CC4D" id="ieooui"></object> <style> st1\:*{behavior:url(#ieooui) } </style> <![endif]--><style> <!-- /* Style Definitions */ p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal {mso-style-parent:""; margin:0in; margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:11.0pt; font-family:Arial; mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman"; color:black; mso-bidi-font-weight:bold;} @page Section1 {size:8.5in 11.0in; margin:1.0in 1.25in 1.0in 1.25in; mso-header-margin:.5in; mso-footer-margin:.5in; mso-paper-source:0;} div.Section1 {page:Section1;} --> </style><!--[if gte mso 10]> <style> /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:10.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-ansi-language:#0400; mso-fareast-language:#0400; mso-bidi-language:#0400;} </style> <![endif]--> <p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-size:85%;">You know how it feels when you walk into a spa or nice restaurant, and you are instantly turned into the belle of the ball (or prince, as the case might be)? All the selections are suddenly tailored per your tastes and preferences.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-size:85%;">
<br /></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-size:85%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-size:85%;">What skin type are you? – “No problem, we’ll find the perfect treatment.” What type of food do you enjoy? – “Oh, might I suggest the perfect wine with your seared tuna?”
<br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-size:85%;">
<br /></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-size:85%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-size:85%;">I’m like most women … I love to be spoiled. And, if I find a product or retailer that does it particularly well, chances are, I’ll go back – a lot. For example, I have been with my bank for 10 years and my hair stylist for six because they are always reliable. Yet, I have owned three cars from three separate companies and will never buy from any of them again. I simply haven’t been satisfied.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-size:85%;">
<br /></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-size:85%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-size:85%;">It’s always a pleasant surprise when you find a new product that has both superior customer service and quality. We all know how profitable it is to retain current customers as opposed to constantly searching for new ones, and many businesses have made it their goal to tailor products so consumers do not have to guess whether a product or experience will be positive.
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<br /></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-size:85%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-size:85%;"><a href="http://www.jberrynursery.com/">J. Berry Nursery</a>, a professional plant grower based right outside of <st1:place st="on"><st1:city st="on">Dallas</st1:city>, <st1:state st="on">TX</st1:state></st1:place>, has used this philosophy to directly effect how and what they sell. All plants with a J. Berry Nursery tag have been tested and trialed in specific areas for unique climates. The company only sells its plants in the exact regions for which the plants were grown. In this way, plants from brands such as these are similar to visiting a spa – the experience will be gloriously relaxing because you know you are purchasing something tailored just for you. Seems simple, but it’s so often overlooked. </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-size:85%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-size:85%;">
<br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-size:85%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwMkzSx5e1-ugmlpd08ArtATZNRYyPPgUmqG5LSrNgIwTZfjl_-PKy3oyYGyVOXr4eteI6zc5IctwN5k-jFAuAsmIz9l4_GZ2fuEdlhCR8deA0WmRrfffHS_hRo4f75iXCY3PJ/s1600-h/'Crown+Jewel%27+16+CU.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 212px; height: 234px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwMkzSx5e1-ugmlpd08ArtATZNRYyPPgUmqG5LSrNgIwTZfjl_-PKy3oyYGyVOXr4eteI6zc5IctwN5k-jFAuAsmIz9l4_GZ2fuEdlhCR8deA0WmRrfffHS_hRo4f75iXCY3PJ/s320/'Crown+Jewel%27+16+CU.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5346111399096242066" border="0" /></a>Here are just a few of J. Berry Nursery’s high-quality plants available to those of you who may be planting a garden in <st1:state st="on">Texas</st1:state>, <st1:state st="on">Louisiana</st1:state> or <st1:state st="on"><st1:place st="on">Oklahoma</st1:place></st1:state> (enjoy!):</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-size:85%;">
<br /></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-size:85%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-size:85%;"><a href="http://www.jberrynursery.com/default.asp?IsDev=False&NodeId=81">‘Crown Jewel’ Gardenia</a> – Possesses an extremely compact, dwarf, spreading habit and is hardier than most gardenias. Heavy June flowering will cover this plant in soft, fragrant, white, double blossoms that require little to no pruning. It works well in mass, in containers, or as a low accent plant in the garden.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-size:85%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-size:85%;"><b>
<br /></b></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-size:85%;"><a href="http://www.jberrynursery.com/default.asp?IsDev=False&NodeId=82">‘Petite Rouge™’ Photinia</a> – ‘Petite </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-size:85%;">Rouge™’<b> </b>is the most compact photinia, ideal for small spaces or mass plantings. It is also highly resistant to the leaf spot disease that plagues most other photinia varieties. New growth is vibrant red. This plant is very low maintenance due to its compact growth habit and disease resistance.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-size:85%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirG8ytwZubnTNBSP-LfGFyOgOPQ4netdOJpHBTnQzPze2WnHZbm_MXNBJAZUU5VZH4IXEJj6EtVoG5kc9EdvfRmTrq1DMP3r-z_cX8MuK7hjuexP6LDjNuzdh45PMn9XnmMU-I/s1600-h/D%C3%A9j%C3%A0+Bloom+Hydrangea+-+%281%29.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirG8ytwZubnTNBSP-LfGFyOgOPQ4netdOJpHBTnQzPze2WnHZbm_MXNBJAZUU5VZH4IXEJj6EtVoG5kc9EdvfRmTrq1DMP3r-z_cX8MuK7hjuexP6LDjNuzdh45PMn9XnmMU-I/s200/D%C3%A9j%C3%A0+Bloom+Hydrangea+-+%281%29.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5346111526103776978" border="0" /></a></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-size:85%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-size:85%;"><a href="http://www.jberrynursery.com/default.asp?IsDev=False&NodeId=83">
<br /></a></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-size:85%;"><a href="http://www.jberrynursery.com/default.asp?IsDev=False&NodeId=83">‘Déjà Bloom™’ Hydrangea</a> – ‘Déjà Bloom™’ is a compact, re-blooming </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-size:85%;">hydrangea with dark green leaves. It is a beautiful plant perfect for many uses and applications in the landscape. This hydrangea is the only re-blooming hydrangea with double flowers! </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-size:85%;">
<br /></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-size:85%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-size:85%;">Alright, all this talk has made me want to garden…and get a pedicure.
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<br /></span><span style="font-size:85%;"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-size:85%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-size:85%;">~ Leslie</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> Leslie Kirkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08709744875570352252noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34078088.post-47311684535369747462009-06-01T14:40:00.000-07:002009-06-02T06:23:07.669-07:00More of Our Preferred Trends and Products from K/BIS…<meta equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=utf-8"><meta name="ProgId" content="Word.Document"><meta name="Generator" content="Microsoft Word 11"><meta name="Originator" content="Microsoft Word 11"><link rel="File-List" href="file:///C:%5CDOCUME%7E1%5CDBorkman%5CLOCALS%7E1%5CTemp%5Cmsohtml1%5C01%5Cclip_filelist.xml"><span style="font-size:85%;"><o:smarttagtype namespaceuri="urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:smarttags" name="country-region"></o:smarttagtype><o:smarttagtype namespaceuri="urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:smarttags" name="City"></o:smarttagtype><o:smarttagtype namespaceuri="urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:smarttags" name="place"></o:smarttagtype><o:smarttagtype namespaceuri="urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:smarttags" name="State"></o:smarttagtype><o:smarttagtype namespaceuri="urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:smarttags" name="address"></o:smarttagtype><o:smarttagtype namespaceuri="urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:smarttags" name="Street"></o:smarttagtype></span><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:worddocument> <w:view>Normal</w:View> <w:zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:punctuationkerning/> <w:validateagainstschemas/> <w:saveifxmlinvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid> <w:ignoremixedcontent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent> <w:alwaysshowplaceholdertext>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText> <w:compatibility> <w:breakwrappedtables/> <w:snaptogridincell/> <w:wraptextwithpunct/> <w:useasianbreakrules/> <w:dontgrowautofit/> </w:Compatibility> <w:browserlevel>MicrosoftInternetExplorer4</w:BrowserLevel> </w:WordDocument> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:latentstyles deflockedstate="false" latentstylecount="156"> </w:LatentStyles> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if !mso]><object classid="clsid:38481807-CA0E-42D2-BF39-B33AF135CC4D" id="ieooui"></object> <style> st1\:*{behavior:url(#ieooui) } </style> <![endif]--><style> <!-- /* Font Definitions */ @font-face {font-family:Wingdings; panose-1:5 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0; mso-font-charset:2; mso-generic-font-family:auto; mso-font-pitch:variable; mso-font-signature:0 268435456 0 0 -2147483648 0;} @font-face {font-family:Batang; panose-1:2 3 6 0 0 1 1 1 1 1; mso-font-alt:"Arial Unicode MS"; mso-font-charset:129; mso-generic-font-family:auto; mso-font-format:other; mso-font-pitch:fixed; mso-font-signature:1 151388160 16 0 524288 0;} @font-face {font-family:"\@Batang"; panose-1:0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0; mso-font-charset:129; mso-generic-font-family:auto; mso-font-format:other; mso-font-pitch:fixed; mso-font-signature:1 151388160 16 0 524288 0;} /* Style Definitions */ p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal {mso-style-parent:""; margin:0in; margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:12.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman";} a:link, span.MsoHyperlink {color:blue; text-decoration:underline; text-underline:single;} a:visited, span.MsoHyperlinkFollowed {color:purple; text-decoration:underline; text-underline:single;} @page Section1 {size:8.5in 11.0in; margin:1.0in 1.25in 1.0in 1.25in; mso-header-margin:.5in; mso-footer-margin:.5in; mso-paper-source:0;} div.Section1 {page:Section1;} /* List Definitions */ @list l0 {mso-list-id:1397626324; mso-list-type:hybrid; mso-list-template-ids:1182033352 67698689 67698691 67698693 67698689 67698691 67698693 67698689 67698691 67698693;} @list l0:level1 {mso-level-number-format:bullet; mso-level-text:; mso-level-tab-stop:.5in; mso-level-number-position:left; text-indent:-.25in; font-family:Symbol;} ol {margin-bottom:0in;} ul {margin-bottom:0in;} --> </style><!--[if gte mso 10]> <style> /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:10.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-ansi-language:#0400; mso-fareast-language:#0400; mso-bidi-language:#0400;} </style> <![endif]--><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" ><o:p></o:p></span> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >After uncovering some incredible kitchen and bath product trends at the <a href="http://www.kbis.com">K/BIS</a> show in <st1:city st="on"><st1:place st="on">Atlanta</st1:place></st1:city> – and as a follow-up to our initial trade show blog post – <a href="http://eberlypr.blogspot.com/2009/05/v-behaviorurldefaultvml-o.html">here</a> – we wanted to share a second round of insights. Here is our take on several more companies that displayed innovative products at the show…</span></p><p class="MsoNormal">
<br /><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" ><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" ><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:85%;"><b style=""><span style="font-family:Arial;">Häfele</span></b></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >With more and more of us downsizing, or simply trying to make the most of our available spaces, home organization is king!</span></p><p class="MsoNormal">
<br /><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" ><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" ><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >The <a href="http://www.hafele.com/us/">Häfele</a> Om</span><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >ni Track system is a way for all of us to get better organized. A disorganized garage can be a thing of the past.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal">
<br /><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" ><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" ><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >When we were at their show exhibit booth, Häfele Marketing Coordinator Skye Russell explained how the Omni Track syst</span><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >em coordinates everything by </span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisCEXESxub4U9CNva4aUFl8DfV5ncJvvi3UwT0rpmdEtjPbf8ebtFqbmX3-Du8UcxPvvOXcSKJFumW4WhCRktIMZwAvn6wcV3C2CkIYuB72hFdiIwvICtiQnujwNQqAz8QD7_JFg/s1600-h/Garage+001-cropped-small.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 227px; height: 144px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisCEXESxub4U9CNva4aUFl8DfV5ncJvvi3UwT0rpmdEtjPbf8ebtFqbmX3-Du8UcxPvvOXcSKJFumW4WhCRktIMZwAvn6wcV3C2CkIYuB72hFdiIwvICtiQnujwNQqAz8QD7_JFg/s200/Garage+001-cropped-small.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5342490785977049058" border="0" /></a><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >seamlessly integrating with cabinet handles, levelers and shelf stiffeners. The sturdy w</span><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >all track provides the needed flexibility to either be hung on the wall as a single track, o</span><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >r stac</span><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >ked to accommoda</span><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >te larger items.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal">
<br /><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" ><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" ><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >Unlike peg h</span><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >ooks that come out of pegboard when an item is removed, these hooks are positioned on the track and “locked” with Cover Caps. This feature allows for easy repositioning, yet the “locking” feature of the C</span><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >ove</span><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >r Caps restricts the hooks from coming off the track when items are lifted off for use.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal">
<br /><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" ><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" ><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >The design of O</span><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >mni Track allows the collection to be utilized in many areas of the home and seems to be a means to organize even the most cluttered spaces.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal">
<br /><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" ><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" ><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:85%;"><b style=""><span style="font-family:Arial;">Haier<o:p></o:p></span></b></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" ><a href="http://www.haieramerica.com/">Haier <st1:place st="on"><st1:country-region st="on">America</st1:country-region></st1:place></a> has three new washers as well as new electric and gas dryers, part of the company’s Encore line.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal">
<br /><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" ><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" ><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >We were impressed by the fact Haier’s <st1:street st="on"><st1:address st="on">Dual Drive</st1:address></st1:street> technology ensures clothes come out looking brighter and cleaner, while using significantly less water and energy – a great bonus in today’s energy- and water-conscious society.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal">
<br /><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" ><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" ><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >The high efficiency GWT950AW features a spacious, stainless steel non-agitator tub with that ever-so-popular brushed-silver </span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOc5UrIaNJl12QJkg1dfxa6W06MxY4kg61HJnU4P-3B7HMtDGf0vA09pyy0kZm6QgX4imjKHABqWKXNkG3vbP9Nd30mZKFDO7alLPMXGt4xbXy2GEWHPmX20PuSQtUwJLUMA4JLQ/s1600-h/GWT950AW.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 124px; height: 179px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOc5UrIaNJl12QJkg1dfxa6W06MxY4kg61HJnU4P-3B7HMtDGf0vA09pyy0kZm6QgX4imjKHABqWKXNkG3vbP9Nd30mZKFDO7alLPMXGt4xbXy2GEWHPmX20PuSQtUwJLUMA4JLQ/s200/GWT950AW.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5342490470238331554" border="0" /></a><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >d</span><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >isp</span><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >la</span><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >y that everyone likes. Proper settings are available for every load, which me</span><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >ans no more wasted water on small loads.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal">
<br /><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" ><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" ><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >In addition to sav</span><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >in</span><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >g</span><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" > water, Haier’s <st1:street st="on"><st1:address st="on">Dual Drive</st1:address></st1:street> technology improves timing on the quick cycle. Addit</span><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >ionally, </span><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >the <st1:street st="on"><st1:address st="on">Dual Drive</st1:address></st1:street> system </span><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >k</span><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >eeps clothes tumbling rapidly so they do not intertwine, which can stretch them. This optimizes performanc</span><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >e and helps maintain the appearance and shape of shirts and other items. We noticed a trend towards the latest and </span><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >b</span><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >est technology in washing and drying at the show, with new and interesting function and form on all fronts.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal">
<br /><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" ><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" ><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >Haier’s 20.6 Cu. Ft. Counter Depth Refrigerator (PBFS21EDAS)</span><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" > has plenty of room for all the food </span><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >of a </span><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >large household, and would clearly </span><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >bring classic style and appealing order to most any kitchen.</span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirG4by0LURicAkU2BSzMMcAdI_APge0YXQaZPiUxhH-xSyMKjCa4AyvkR7Pb3PmN-pSyHU6XaHUW1O7APSjzSKfzahOuhfQJxotn6eMXQTRdxPph4BCxxIMJpW3jCPYD-20i9iNA/s1600-h/PBFS21EDAS+Closed.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 134px; height: 221px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirG4by0LURicAkU2BSzMMcAdI_APge0YXQaZPiUxhH-xSyMKjCa4AyvkR7Pb3PmN-pSyHU6XaHUW1O7APSjzSKfzahOuhfQJxotn6eMXQTRdxPph4BCxxIMJpW3jCPYD-20i9iNA/s200/PBFS21EDAS+Closed.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5342490241498404354" border="0" /></a></p><p class="MsoNormal">
<br /><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" ><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >The incre</span><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >asingly popular French door design places whatever is needed at eye level, and also provides that ever-important benefit of energy </span><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >conservation, since the big doors are not the only way to reach desired items. Kitchen designers we know and with whom we work will love this frig!</span></p><p class="MsoNormal">
<br /><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" ><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" ><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >Easy-access fr</span><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >eezer drawers store frozen meats in the large lower drawer, while other items are easily acc</span><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >essed in the conveniently located upper drawer. I like the Express Chill and Express Freeze features, which preserve food quality by rapidly bringing groceries down to optimum storage temperature.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal">
<br /><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" ><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" ><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:85%;"><b style=""><span style="font-family:Arial;">KOHLER CO.<o:p></o:p></span></b></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >The concept of ‘</span><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >mis en place’ (everything has its own place) is successfully integrated in <a href="http://www.kohler.com/">Kohler Co.</a>’s new Karbon articulating kitchen faucet. This model combines industry-focused technology with the design needs</span><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" > of today’s homeowner.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal">
<br /><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" ><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" ><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >This fauce</span><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >t ha</span><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >s all the versatile mobility of a pull-down faucet. While the concept of a pull-down faucet is not new, five pivoting joints o</span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPGVaj6-PaZAGP0UwHN_a65GXPBJM0whO0tMPZHwDNaRYbYDefoGoETgWPl7KPDcB1qV0VqXxTq66n-F01RJtkCBiFq3PXnhEf1e0BgypImv6bx9DMg0ZyY6ckVBr5Bf6syWZHcg/s1600-h/KarbonSM.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 133px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPGVaj6-PaZAGP0UwHN_a65GXPBJM0whO0tMPZHwDNaRYbYDefoGoETgWPl7KPDcB1qV0VqXxTq66n-F01RJtkCBiFq3PXnhEf1e0BgypImv6bx9DMg0ZyY6ckVBr5Bf6syWZHcg/s200/KarbonSM.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5342490003239311522" border="0" /></a><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >f the Karbon faucet allow the user to precisely position – and keep – the water stream exactly where it is needed. This kind</span><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" > of </span><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >streamlined functionality and ease-of-use was widely noticeable at the show.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal">
<br /><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" ><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" ><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >Additionally, the faucet offers both spray and aerated water flow options, eliminating the need for a sidespray. All finishes are available in deck- and wall-mount models.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal">
<br /><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" ><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" ><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >Their new line of Stages kitchen sinks was inspired by professional chefs. In much the same way professionals in other industries help shape product design, professional chefs helped develop this new line. These products provide efficiency and b</span><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >eauty.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal">
<br /><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" ><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" ><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >From prep and cooking to cleanup, the Stages kitchen sink has been de</span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJJMxfKbjNVTsn4fPa1TK7oRAsb9YszJvWg8XWQfnStLI_3v-blL0iWIAOaFS13rTQcai90_2pLtVksz-dOkMoWvg8kUGAA5Cv5cEiZbNY2GEKjxwAxwEEK0sucWXE6tsXTWirEA/s1600-h/ChefSm.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 201px; height: 139px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJJMxfKbjNVTsn4fPa1TK7oRAsb9YszJvWg8XWQfnStLI_3v-blL0iWIAOaFS13rTQcai90_2pLtVksz-dOkMoWvg8kUGAA5Cv5cEiZbNY2GEKjxwAxwEEK0sucWXE6tsXTWirEA/s200/ChefSm.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5342489816505296658" border="0" /></a><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >signed to integrate </span><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >all related tasks around the sink area. These professionals partnered with </span><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >KOHLER designers to essentially create a hybrid of home and restaurant kitchen sinks. Builders looking to impress a wide range of homeowners should consider thi</span><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >s as an option that allows for commercial-quality kitchen appeal.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal">
<br /><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" ><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" ><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >This sink is differ</span><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >ent from so many others out there, due to the number of culinary tools that are actually included with the sink purchase. Among these, is a utensil tray, which is perfect for organizing ladles, knives and other accessories used during the cooking process or to soak utensils when cleaning. A dual-sided flip tray serves as both a cutting board and serving tray, and also included is a separate cutting tray to keep the kitchen are</span><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >a more sani</span><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >tary. Possibly, one of the best features is a wire rack that protects the sink’s basin, while providing a surface for cleaning and drying dishes.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal">
<br /><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" ><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" ><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:85%;"><b style=""><span style="font-family:Arial;">AMBA Prod</span></b></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh94Fti1PCDO40phfQx0OPPH1RRGcbMn9pFbsFkB3ZUAcCgmF6nFXScB1GthYxrYXPdqCYF9B10spJf39b2htMIuac3xZtpX7vHlWlQzlvPyWO40GzBhN0RVe2wg0JjTAMLREyCFw/s1600-h/d_curved4.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 141px; height: 204px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh94Fti1PCDO40phfQx0OPPH1RRGcbMn9pFbsFkB3ZUAcCgmF6nFXScB1GthYxrYXPdqCYF9B10spJf39b2htMIuac3xZtpX7vHlWlQzlvPyWO40GzBhN0RVe2wg0JjTAMLREyCFw/s200/d_curved4.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5342489473117805442" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:85%;"><b style=""><span style="font-family:Arial;">ucts / Beyerle<o:p></o:p></span></b></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" ><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:85%;"><st1:city st="on"><st1:place st="on"><span style="font-family:Arial;">Bath</span></st1:place></st1:city></span><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" > ac</span><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >ce</span><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >ssor</span><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >ies have become one of the hottest segments in the home and hotel furnishings market. Products such as <a href="http://www.ambaproducts.com/">Amba Products</a>’ Jeeves Collection offers a number of fashionable towel warmers, to keep users comfy. Models are all stainless steel and include straight, curved and shelf configurations, and are available in Polished, Brushed, White and Oil-Rubbed Bronze finishes</span><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >. I have used towel warmers before, and let me say, it is nice!</span></p><p class="MsoNormal">
<br /><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" ><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" ><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" ><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >Beyerle’s sliding doors hardware combines the best of fashion-forward design </span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtny-63MYb4lVh3qQ6O7DVSiaRKmvkO2D3zjTzgOsZPI7ocEDJdVtshwTlqQ4uA2boSG0pNLaJr046Wfseyq4nakaYRLW5P1_kTnH9Hw8zcRE-ubiV87byDjgM5NuN9hCvBzBsnw/s1600-h/Sliding+Door.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 146px; height: 194px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtny-63MYb4lVh3qQ6O7DVSiaRKmvkO2D3zjTzgOsZPI7ocEDJdVtshwTlqQ4uA2boSG0pNLaJr046Wfseyq4nakaYRLW5P1_kTnH9Hw8zcRE-ubiV87byDjgM5NuN9hCvBzBsnw/s200/Sliding+Door.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5342489248463550930" border="0" /></a><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >with home functionality.</span><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" > For </span><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >t</span><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >he truly progressive among us, imagine a bedroom or oth</span><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >er room adorned with a non-traditional door using t</span><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >hese handsome fitments. Styles include Flatec I, Flatec II </span><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >(pictured), Unotec, Duetec, and Tritec in my favorite, brushed nickel finishes. Sliding door hardware is also available for glass doors, as well. Since sliding doors are growing in popularity, interior designer</span><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >s we’ve talked to and work with are taking note of this kind of innovation, replacing more traditional doors in room re-designs and renovatio</span><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >ns.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal">
<br /><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" ><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:85%;"><b style=""><span style="font-family:Arial;"><o:p> </o:p></span></b></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:85%;"><b style=""><span style="font-family:Arial;">Robern</span></b></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" ><a href="http://www.robern.com/">Robern</a>’s great new Uplift mirrored cabinet is yet another shining example of a successful marriage of functionality and style in the bathroom. The Uplift cabinets feature a door that opens vertically. This offers both the aesthetics of a seamless mirror and flexible storage and design options.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-3RU6d782dBVM0FMRwqEOt-zpuD5ssu__QFWYBpm6l75ZDj_CSc52hTuCxcvk_0OB96KMcuDMjRlkZAtQgeuxuq9e00V6yrfGaFNkkhCoCKO1BZFgT5QlRiAPC8stwH8qAb3JqA/s1600-h/Uplift2Sm.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 196px; height: 141px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-3RU6d782dBVM0FMRwqEOt-zpuD5ssu__QFWYBpm6l75ZDj_CSc52hTuCxcvk_0OB96KMcuDMjRlkZAtQgeuxuq9e00V6yrfGaFNkkhCoCKO1BZFgT5QlRiAPC8stwH8qAb3JqA/s200/Uplift2Sm.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5342488953928132290" border="0" /></a>
<br /><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" ><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" ><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >As its </span><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >name im</span><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >plie</span><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >s, the sleek mirrored door of the cabinet opens upward, allowing the seamless mirror to span up to four feet wide</span><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >. </span><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >An </span><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >alu</span><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >minum handle allows users to easily lift the door and avoid smudging the mirror. I</span><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >t’s position-hold feature allows it to remain in a partially open position.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal">
<br /><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" ><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" ><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >The Uplift cabinet provides storage solutions for many of the diverse items kept in a bathroom. If a homeowner needs to store makeup, sup</span><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >plies, and medications, etc., the Uplift cabine</span><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >t includes an option for a flexible organizer shelf with moveable sections. What’s the coolest part? This cabinet offers outlets for up to six electronic </span><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >devices. It’s also easy to find whatever is needed, since Uplift’s interior lighting turns on as soon as the door is opened.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal">
<br /><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" ><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" ><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >Another great feature about the Uplift cabinet is the ability to install televisions and radios in bathrooms by using an optional TV mo</span><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >unt for an LCD television. Additionally, because people tend to lean into their mirrors to shave or apply makeup, the Uplift cabinet features an optional pull-out 3X magnifying mirror, which creates less ergonomic stress. What a great idea! We didn’t realize there was so much to mirror-cabinet innovation until we came a</span><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >cross Robern at the show.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal">
<br /><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" ><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:85%;"><b style=""><span style="font-family:Arial;"><o:p> </o:p></span></b></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:85%;"><b style=""><span style="font-family:Arial;">TOTO <st1:country-region st="on"><st1:place st="on">USA</st1:place></st1:country-region><o:p></o:p></span></b></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" ><a href="http://www.totousa.com/">TOTO <st1:place st="on"><st1:country-region st="on">USA</st1:country-region></st1:place></a>’s new NEOREST Bath Collection exemplifies distinctive design and advanced technology. It is so distinctive; it won the Prestigious RedDot International Design Award. Components of this new collection include:</span></p><p class="MsoNormal">
<br /><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" ><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" ><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <ul style="margin-top: 0in;" type="disc"><li class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >NEOREST II Wall-Hung Dual Flush Integrated Toilet and Personal Cleansing System<o:p></o:p></span></li><li class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >NEOREST II LUMINIST Lavatory<o:p></o:p></span></li><li class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >NEOREST II LUMINIST Soaker Tub</span></li><li class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >NEOREST II Shower System with GyroStream</span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicStUup6UfoDzolJ2CczosALDYvJ9S-ZTQx4m7uvUXbhUcCkOcE_tYdVdIc05mU-KOqOmR7GkTsHDsFSwJfxIgKNCB3n3uaPMC6Ydd9yUIIedRkqtVpD0eYFveIcL0UsBQnlNvbQ/s1600-h/NEOREST+II+Toilet.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 153px; height: 192px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicStUup6UfoDzolJ2CczosALDYvJ9S-ZTQx4m7uvUXbhUcCkOcE_tYdVdIc05mU-KOqOmR7GkTsHDsFSwJfxIgKNCB3n3uaPMC6Ydd9yUIIedRkqtVpD0eYFveIcL0UsBQnlNvbQ/s200/NEOREST+II+Toilet.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5342487345355200994" border="0" /></a></li></ul> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" ><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >The NEOREST II’s toilet no longer sits on the floor; it is now mounted on the wall. This low-flow toilet fe</span><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >a</span><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >tur</span><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >es an in-wall tank carrier which creates a streamlined look in any bathroom. The NEOREST II toilet incorpor</span><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >a</span><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >te</span><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >s TOTO’s translucent epoxy resin, LUMINIST, on its push plate, which keeps it consistent with the design of the </span><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >Collection’s lavatory and soaker tub.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal">
<br /><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" ><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" ><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >When they say “bathed in light,” they really mean it. Through the surface of the NEOREST II Lavat</span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgysokZFb7XtcAucBAjN7x8c25qcqb6IheBpWuSSgynHNzISSa7KT7BSEUGbY_NtfPEo_8zeEyspcz-ABlkCwMuI0O2-AQYRMWLRrh2V5qJCqo6NmS69zv9kB3z9FZqsl2SkBHJGw/s1600-h/NEOREST+II+Lavatory.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 152px; height: 185px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgysokZFb7XtcAucBAjN7x8c25qcqb6IheBpWuSSgynHNzISSa7KT7BSEUGbY_NtfPEo_8zeEyspcz-ABlkCwMuI0O2-AQYRMWLRrh2V5qJCqo6NmS69zv9kB3z9FZqsl2SkBHJGw/s200/NEOREST+II+Lavatory.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5342486919922606674" border="0" /></a><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >ory, an embedded LED light radiates through to create a glowing atmosphere</span><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >. Also made out of LUMINIST, the NEOREST II lavatory has the translucent qualities of glas</span><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >s combined with exceptional durability, heat resistance, and scratch</span><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >-resistance of marble. Traditional “Hot” and “Cold” faucets have been replaced by an elegant, super-slim spout that is positioned at t</span><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >he near corner (closer to the body than traditional tap handles) for ease of use. In addition, it provides instant, precise control of water temperature.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal">
<br /><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" ><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" ><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >As with the lavatory, the NEOREST Soaker is distinguished by its use of TOTO’s custom hybrid epoxy resin. Bathed in light and warm water, users will experience true tranquility, thanks to the experience that is provided by the gentle light diffusing through the LUMINIST soaker.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal">
<br /><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" ><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" ><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >When the lights are switched on, the tub gently glows, encompassing the bather in a soothing aura of white light. In daylight, the LUMINIST soaker takes on the appearance of translucence. I bet that is a sight to behold!</span></p><p class="MsoNormal">
<br /><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" ><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" ><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >Okay, so in exploring TOTO, we were faced with the question, “Ever feel like taking a bath AND a shower at the same time?” TOTO makes it possible in the NEOREST shower. Water flows from one or a combination of so</span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLXpbrdRUVX2T8_RIU9IKxBnBv0EQVbxzXEqBTmQIuIskZIRlIX9Rs8UmiuaUFAm3HZmMLSAcI168VF77dFZop28mD8ZOjoY5toqAVAVrwvFh9hu9qZe10G_sD71sWQc7zK6N09g/s1600-h/NEOREST+II+Shower+System.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 151px; height: 189px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLXpbrdRUVX2T8_RIU9IKxBnBv0EQVbxzXEqBTmQIuIskZIRlIX9Rs8UmiuaUFAm3HZmMLSAcI168VF77dFZop28mD8ZOjoY5toqAVAVrwvFh9hu9qZe10G_sD71sWQc7zK6N09g/s200/NEOREST+II+Shower+System.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5342486373324301842" border="0" /></a><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >u</span><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >rce</span><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >s – </span><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >an overhead shower, a six-nozzle body shower, or a hand-shower. Water comes from every direction! Th</span><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >is </span><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >shower system is furnished with one-touch shower control and remote control auto-drain.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal">
<br /><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" ><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" ><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >GyroStream is TOTO’s new water technology that brings the relaxing qualities of a bath to the show</span><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >er.</span><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" > When </span><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >equipped with GyroStream, the shower system’s water flows through nozzles that tilt and rotate. This a</span><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >llows for more consistent water distribution. Whole-body drenching encases the individual in warm water, as if she </span><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >or he were in a bath, and keeps the bather cozy, warm, and relaxed, even if the room temperature is cool.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal">
<br /><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" ><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" ><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >Wow. I can’t believe how far some of these companies have taken the bathroom experience. With these products, homeowners can truly escape into oasis-like bathrooms, and the designers and builders who create these spaces will be on the top of the “most sought-after home-planners’ list.”</span></p><p class="MsoNormal">
<br /><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" ><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" ><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >These are just a few more of the many impressive product and design trends we uncovered at K/</span><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >BIS 2009. Like those in our first K/BIS blog, (or any other blog post we’ve done, for that matter), feel free to let me know if any of these products / companies are of interest. Between our clients and some of the other great companies we know, we will continue to blog in the coming weeks and months about some of this year’s newest and most coveted products in the Home, Garden, Design, and Agribusiness Industries.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal">
<br /><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" ><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" ><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >If you are a designer, builder or member of the media, please post your thoughts and questions. What do you think of the gamut of home improvement to luxury design available in today’s changing home market?</span></p><p class="MsoNormal">
<br /><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" ><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" ><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >~ Doug (<a href="mailto:dougborkman@eberlypr.com">dougborkman@eberlypr.com</a>)<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" ><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" ><o:p> </o:p></span></p><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" ><o:p></o:p></span><span style="font-size:85%;">
<br /></span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34078088.post-43999439607915143122009-05-29T12:04:00.000-07:002009-05-29T13:30:57.828-07:002009 K/BIS Showcased Hottest Product and Design Trends<meta equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=utf-8"><meta name="ProgId" content="Word.Document"><meta name="Generator" content="Microsoft Word 11"><meta name="Originator" content="Microsoft Word 11"><link rel="File-List" href="file:///C:%5CDOCUME%7E1%5CDBorkman%5CLOCALS%7E1%5CTemp%5Cmsohtml1%5C01%5Cclip_filelist.xml"><span style="font-size:85%;"><o:smarttagtype namespaceuri="urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:smarttags" name="PlaceName"></o:smarttagtype><o:smarttagtype namespaceuri="urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:smarttags" name="PlaceType"></o:smarttagtype><o:smarttagtype namespaceuri="urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:smarttags" name="place"></o:smarttagtype><o:smarttagtype namespaceuri="urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:smarttags" name="country-region"></o:smarttagtype></span><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:worddocument> <w:view>Normal</w:View> <w:zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:punctuationkerning/> <w:validateagainstschemas/> <w:saveifxmlinvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid> <w:ignoremixedcontent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent> <w:alwaysshowplaceholdertext>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText> <w:compatibility> <w:breakwrappedtables/> <w:snaptogridincell/> <w:wraptextwithpunct/> <w:useasianbreakrules/> <w:dontgrowautofit/> </w:Compatibility> <w:browserlevel>MicrosoftInternetExplorer4</w:BrowserLevel> </w:WordDocument> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:latentstyles deflockedstate="false" latentstylecount="156"> </w:LatentStyles> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if !mso]><object classid="clsid:38481807-CA0E-42D2-BF39-B33AF135CC4D" id="ieooui"></object> <style> st1\:*{behavior:url(#ieooui) } </style> <![endif]--><style> <!-- /* Style Definitions */ p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal {mso-style-parent:""; margin:0in; margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:12.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman";} a:link, span.MsoHyperlink {color:#5588AA; mso-text-animation:none; text-decoration:none; text-underline:none; text-decoration:none; text-line-through:none;} a:visited, span.MsoHyperlinkFollowed {color:purple; text-decoration:underline; text-underline:single;} @page Section1 {size:8.5in 11.0in; margin:1.0in 1.25in 1.0in 1.25in; mso-header-margin:.5in; mso-footer-margin:.5in; mso-paper-source:0;} div.Section1 {page:Section1;} --> </style><!--[if gte mso 10]> <style> /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:10.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-ansi-language:#0400; mso-fareast-language:#0400; mso-bidi-language:#0400;} </style> <![endif]--> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;color:black;" ><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;color:black;" ><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;color:black;" >Don, Jeff and I attended 2009 <a href="http://www.kbis.com/">K/BIS</a> at the <st1:place st="on"><st1:placename st="on">Georgia</st1:placename> <st1:placename st="on">World</st1:placename> <st1:placename st="on">Congress</st1:placename> <st1:placetype st="on">Center</st1:placetype></st1:place>. This show is truly one of the biggest and most influential shows in the home, kitchen and bath industry and is always well attended by people looking to see what the next trends are in kitchen and bath products / design.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal">
<br /><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;color:black;" ><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;color:black;" ><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;color:black;" >Since we specialize in providing integrated marketing communications services for companies in the field – and because we contribute articles and product narratives for the Home, Garden and Design-based media – we collected a lot of information about the latest and g</span><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;color:black;" >reatest design trends for today’s homes, kitchens and baths.
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<br /><!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;color:black;" >Once we started walking the floor and absorbing it all, we met many great people, but we </span><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;color:black;" >also observed today’s exciting product and design innovations. These include some of the richest and most luxurious cabinet and drawer systems I have ever seen, with plenty of them featuring soft-closi</span><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;color:black;" >ng mechanisms. Home storage solutions focused on maximizing any and all available space. One common theme was the blending of functionality with style. However, the trends didn’t stop there. We were shown incredible outdoor and indoor kitchen cabinetry, state-of-the-art appliances, and even a h</span><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;color:black;" >igh-tech bidet that captured our attention and the eyes of show-goers.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal">
<br /><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;color:black;" ><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;color:black;" ><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;color:black;" >Over the coming week</span><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;color:black;" >s, we will be adding more blog posts about our findings at the show. For now, the following include some of o</span><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;color:black;" >ur to</span><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;color:black;" >p picks. If you are a member of the media and would like additional in</span><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;color:black;" >formation about these products, shoot me an email or post your comments.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal">
<br /><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;color:black;" ><span style=""> </span><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;color:black;" ><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:85%;"><b style=""><span style=";font-family:Arial;color:black;" >Rev-A-Shelf<o:p></o:p></span></b></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:85%;"><b style=""><span style=";font-family:Arial;color:black;" ><o:p> </o:p></span></b></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;color:black;" >This company really revs up home organization! They are the world’s largest manufacturer of functional storage organizing products, and <a href="http://www.rev-a-shelf.com/">Rev-A-Shelf</a> offers homeowners ultimate storage solutions for every room in the house.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal">
<br /><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;color:black;" ><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;color:black;" ><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;color:black;" >That being </span><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;color:black;" >sai</span><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;color:black;" >d, we were truly amazed about all the <i style="">particular</i> ways Rev-A-Shelf</span><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;color:black;" > can help people maximize their available spaces. With many people moving into </span><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;color:black;" >cities and out of larger suburban homes, available space can be at a premium. This is </span><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;color:black;" >where Rev-A-Shelf can help, as all of their products seem to simplify getting organized.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal">
<br /><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;color:black;" ><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;color:black;" ><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;color:black;" >Among the most impressive home organization pr</span><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;color:black;" >oducts that Rev-A-Shelf Marketing Manager Shari </span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtgYWnXvHT6Hmpg8TP4koS9DjY7tAD-XKgPDIhWWf_QjjZLwYc0_MANaNbyMN-Kx45fS5H7b_OTyXzQfuFwPIuPUgsfzkBUpUoV0KwoonwGQAbuBSagiA8nkhqJfVs7V83UzZouw/s1600-h/Two-Tier+Drawer.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 187px; height: 173px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtgYWnXvHT6Hmpg8TP4koS9DjY7tAD-XKgPDIhWWf_QjjZLwYc0_MANaNbyMN-Kx45fS5H7b_OTyXzQfuFwPIuPUgsfzkBUpUoV0KwoonwGQAbuBSagiA8nkhqJfVs7V83UzZouw/s200/Two-Tier+Drawer.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5341329192972472706" border="0" /></a><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;color:black;" >Mc</span><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;color:black;" >Peek showed us, is the company’s two-tiered wood cutlery drawer. The unique design provides two tiers for double </span><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;color:black;" >st</span><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;color:black;" >orage capacity, and the preassembled drawer box allows for easy installation with only the addition of an existing drawer front.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal">
<br /><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;color:black;" ><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;color:black;" ><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;color:black;" >We were also impressed by their Lazy Shoe-Zen shoe </span><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;color:black;" >closet organization system. It features room for </span><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;color:black;" >all of Imelda’s shoes, and takes up very little space. This </span><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;color:black;" >is one of <st1:place st="on">Shari</st1:place>’s favorites.
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<br /><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;color:black;" ><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;color:black;" ><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;color:black;" >Rev-A-Shelf’s groundbreaking Soft-Open / Soft-Close Rev-A-Motion sliders are incorporated into </span><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;color:black;" >garbage</span><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;color:black;" > and recycling containers with an innovative top-mo</span><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;color:black;" >unt application. They hel</span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirGmPktAMSFuZRO7PkDOSv9uXFX-ZcKZbGbBjIrpLFO8qE3qCUwmPRB-5mjsXXl23DauH9zcAL5-O4qmccl4anTFPUo7wKeDC01ORZ1EvOL6LgyL5H80UkqKKl8Zm2r0cg-vmoBA/s1600-h/4WCTM-RM-2150DM-2_A.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 181px; height: 185px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirGmPktAMSFuZRO7PkDOSv9uXFX-ZcKZbGbBjIrpLFO8qE3qCUwmPRB-5mjsXXl23DauH9zcAL5-O4qmccl4anTFPUo7wKeDC01ORZ1EvOL6LgyL5H80UkqKKl8Zm2r0cg-vmoBA/s200/4WCTM-RM-2150DM-2_A.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5341333858636955074" border="0" /></a><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;color:black;" >p keep kitchen waste containers separated and neatly organized. Rev-A-Motion allows for a soft-closing drawer mechanism, which means no more slammed doors. Seeing these products, all of us started thinking that maximizing space in our own kitchens </span><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;color:black;" >and baths was truly possible. The options are endless. Thanks, <st1:place st="on">Shari</st1:place>, for an informative tour of your show booth and display.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal">
<br /><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;color:black;" ><span style=""> </span><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;color:black;" ><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:85%;"><b style=""><span style=";font-family:Arial;color:black;" >Coway <st1:country-region st="on"><st1:place st="on">USA</st1:place></st1:country-region><o:p></o:p></span></b></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;color:black;" ><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;color:black;" ><a href="http://www.coway-usa.com/">Coway USA</a>’s</span><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;color:black;" > Assist</span><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;color:black;" >ant Planning and Marketing Manager Hannah Hwang showed us how the premium BA13 Digital Bidet can help </span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvDa-SRDbJpL5zgzxga1uTBQEFgwYZasq6EB0oXqQVBe3L0LnGRazA4ab4mFauSYDUhYug8IEMXXWDfZZmRE0-3YG8pEQJIISRpApi_oXdmCiMzlt-VuucTAXnO93G2KXFasqiOg/s1600-h/IMAGE1.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 167px; height: 167px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvDa-SRDbJpL5zgzxga1uTBQEFgwYZasq6EB0oXqQVBe3L0LnGRazA4ab4mFauSYDUhYug8IEMXXWDfZZmRE0-3YG8pEQJIISRpApi_oXdmCiMzlt-VuucTAXnO93G2KXFasqiOg/s200/IMAGE1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5341331237679556866" border="0" /></a><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;color:black;" >ensure optimal personal hygiene. Maintaining pr</span><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;color:black;" >oper cleanliness is an often overlooked but critically important pa</span><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;color:black;" >rt of </span><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;color:black;" >any health-conscious person’s life, and this product delivers! <span style=""> </span>The BA13’s sleek and </span><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;color:black;" >stylish appearance hide</span><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;color:black;" >s</span><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;color:black;" > a powerful unit that can keep users clean and fresh. It features a four-way valve system, as well as a three-step flow</span><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;color:black;" > control for personalized cleansing. All of its functionality can be controlled with </span><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;color:black;" >the unit’s multi-function remote control, which can also regula</span><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;color:black;" >t</span><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;color:black;" >e water pressure, seat and water temperature, and more. Once a luxury only for those traveling out of the </span><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;color:black;" >states, bidets are growing in trend popularity at home. This product drew crowds of onlookers at the show, indicating high interest among designers, builders, architects, hoteliers, homeowners, and others.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal">
<br /><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;color:black;" ><span style=""> </span><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;color:black;" ><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;color:black;" ><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p style="text-align: left;" class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;color:black;" >Coway <st1:country-region st="on"><st1:place st="on">USA</st1:place></st1:country-region> also offers a great new AP1008 DH air purifying system. Talk about a breath of fresh air! This model is just one of the company’s new elegant and slender air purifiers that will improve</span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhYv0iR1sRFQkcm6Oht1lZJdiVxwcHNV8QvDJGp6HLWB1z-MqkKgmUOvL_FGItT3PBSQeW341yR_3oYckpiMDka6t5vzmK1SyUpkz8-TAznx9Ytk4iCoaGuxZ4FeG-tD0l45uGrQ/s1600-h/air_img_ap1008dh.gif"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 196px; height: 190px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhYv0iR1sRFQkcm6Oht1lZJdiVxwcHNV8QvDJGp6HLWB1z-MqkKgmUOvL_FGItT3PBSQeW341yR_3oYckpiMDka6t5vzmK1SyUpkz8-TAznx9Ytk4iCoaGuxZ4FeG-tD0l45uGrQ/s200/air_img_ap1008dh.gif" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5341330822463078050" border="0" /></a><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;color:black;" > the air quality in any r</span><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;color:black;" >oom – and look great doing it! <span style=""> </span>My favorit</span><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;color:black;" >e featur</span><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;color:black;" >e is the color-coded pollution indicator, w</span><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;color:black;" >hich changes color to indicate the degree of pollution in the air. A soft blue glow means air quality is great. But, as the air quality decreases, the light will transition through lighter t</span><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;color:black;" >o darker shades of purple, then to red. I also liked the simple and easy-to-understand controls, that include “Auto,” “Speed,” “Silent,” and “Mood” features to affect fan speed, sound levels and e</span><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;color:black;" >ven lamp illumination. Hannah is a product expert on these and other products offered by the company. She said she is always happy to answer questions about the ways in which her products bring positive changes to those who use them.
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<br /><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;color:black;" ><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;color:black;" ><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:85%;"><b style=""><span style=";font-family:Arial;color:black;" >Vetrazzo<o:p></o:p></span></b></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;color:black;" ><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;color:black;" >People interested in reminiscing about fun nights at their favorite watering holes with friends and vodka; their memories can continue forever, thanks to <a href="http://www.vetrazzo.com/">Vetrazzo</a>. This company showcased an innovative line of recycled glass surfacing materials. Bright blue bottles, green glass, and a variety of other colorful glass materials can be reincarnated as a part of a new cou</span><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;color:black;" >ntertop or bar.
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<br /><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;color:black;" ><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;color:black;" ><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;color:black;" >Marketing Coordinator Craig Murphy told us that all of the glass used in Vetrazzo is recycled, which </span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVsu18RUY4ZEF2GpVkE7-ptxPzQa6jbwqjX8mwx8GB-QC16i34wBy14W_kkr7B0jLqqop4WRuvfIXHpJFkCU2GYoxi7YeIZZ4tTIABS7ZwmIQ0cXCNhYcdSHCmEDQhoKmQDWJeaQ/s1600-h/thumb_Cobalt+Skyy+Blue+Vetrazzo+recycled+glass+countertop+IMG_5974%5B1%5D.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 168px; height: 218px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVsu18RUY4ZEF2GpVkE7-ptxPzQa6jbwqjX8mwx8GB-QC16i34wBy14W_kkr7B0jLqqop4WRuvfIXHpJFkCU2GYoxi7YeIZZ4tTIABS7ZwmIQ0cXCNhYcdSHCmEDQhoKmQDWJeaQ/s200/thumb_Cobalt+Skyy+Blue+Vetrazzo+recycled+glass+countertop+IMG_5974%5B1%5D.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5341331727306979058" border="0" /></a><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;color:black;" >comprises about 85 percent of the final material by weight. The largest proportion of glass comes from curbside recycling programs. Other glass sources range from windows and dinnerware to stained glass and even decommissioned traffic lights. Since the company generally uses up to 1,000 bottles to make a single countertop, every panel is distinctive and unique. The best part about their surfacing materials is that homeowners choosing to purchase a Vetrazzo countertop can know they are doing their part to help Mother Earth in the process.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal">
<br /><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;color:black;" ><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;color:black;" ><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;color:black;" >Their 2009 Palette is available in 19 patterns, including four new ones, like Champagne Flint, Margarita Flint, Martini Flint and Porter Flint. With every purchase made, the company provides a Certificate of Transformation that indicates exactly where the materials derived. With such a cool background and cre</span><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;color:black;" >ative product line, Vetrazzo truly <i style="">is</i> a story in every surface.
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<br /><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;color:black;" ><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:85%;"><b style=""><span style=";font-family:Arial;color:black;" ><o:p> </o:p></span></b></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:85%;"><b style=""><span style=";font-family:Arial;color:black;" >Hardwick Home Décor<o:p></o:p></span></b></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:85%;"><b style=""><span style=";font-family:Arial;color:black;" ><o:p> </o:p></span></b></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;color:black;" >Homeowners are always looking for great ways to add a little extra fashion and flair to their k</span><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;color:black;" >itchens. A great way to accomplish this is to add a bronze art relief from <a href="http://www.hardwickhomedecor.com/">Hardwick Home Decor</a>. Company owner Renee Egan commissioned Ronnie Wells, a full-time professional artist with more than 20 years experience, to design these reliefs. After seeing her exhibit space, we could see that his experience shows.
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<br /><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;color:black;" ><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;color:black;" ><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;color:black;" >Since it is said that money spent in kitchen upgrades is essentially received as an equal payback in</span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsBPY5lJ9Y8jePaMqs-MijriVXGhER_sfB1tNQDo-tWWZNLlfQQej1bq8zRthpWdA96KyLCgiqEaa2xoOa3wZbe1aiQi3kVfEWmjJZoySjfePPyJh2WdNYQCw64DwW9vDcoKyJrg/s1600-h/herron+built+in-cropped.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 189px; height: 177px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsBPY5lJ9Y8jePaMqs-MijriVXGhER_sfB1tNQDo-tWWZNLlfQQej1bq8zRthpWdA96KyLCgiqEaa2xoOa3wZbe1aiQi3kVfEWmjJZoySjfePPyJh2WdNYQCw64DwW9vDcoKyJrg/s200/herron+built+in-cropped.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5341332123700710962" border="0" /></a><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;color:black;" > the form of increased home value, Hardwi</span><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;color:black;" >ck Home Décor’s bronze art reliefs seem to offer a solution homeowners need. This entails adding décor details and elements that cause a home to stand out from the rest on the block, especially when showing a home. Each relief features an intricate design with amazing richness and texture that would grace any fireplace mantel, kitchen backsplash, or simply any wall.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal">
<br /><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;color:black;" ><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;color:black;" ><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;color:black;" >Furthermore, builders can use Hardwick Home Décor art reliefs to differentiate their homes from the sea of cookie-cutter homes out there. Seeing one of these reliefs in a home certainly would speak to the overall quality of a home, and little touches like this can make all the difference in the sale of the home.
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<br /><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;color:black;" ><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;color:black;" ><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:85%;"><b style=""><span style=";font-family:Arial;color:black;" >Danver<o:p></o:p></span></b></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:85%;"><b style=""><span style=";font-family:Arial;color:black;" ><o:p> </o:p></span></b></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;color:black;" >We were truly impressed by the full line of stainless steel indoor and outdoor cabinetry from <a href="http://www.danver.com/">Danver</a>. Among these, are an assortme</span><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;color:black;" >nt of island inserts, grills, accessories, bartenders, refrigeration products, and appliances.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal">
<br /><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;color:black;" ><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;color:black;" ><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;color:black;" >No matter the offering, one thing they all have in common is premium style. Their stainless doors, drawer fronts and drawers come with a N</span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggsRAOI8DD57ZFdk-kLSeRrYCMRrsl4QSRBVftcHS0OxFRJw6td8Ym9b5HRf5W4Tm-4WZEu5JYOxdEQ1ZgmBWxawP1SV-mF__1vb365Z2bRSlZbnsW2Mic_3j4Q1QG7KSnsBWLgg/s1600-h/LYNX-Danver.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 176px; height: 147px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggsRAOI8DD57ZFdk-kLSeRrYCMRrsl4QSRBVftcHS0OxFRJw6td8Ym9b5HRf5W4Tm-4WZEu5JYOxdEQ1ZgmBWxawP1SV-mF__1vb365Z2bRSlZbnsW2Mic_3j4Q1QG7KSnsBWLgg/s200/LYNX-Danver.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5341332833286949570" border="0" /></a><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;color:black;" >o. 4 brushed vertical grain, which provides a rich, contemporary look. Their modular cabinets also provide designe</span><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;color:black;" >rs,</span><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;color:black;" > landscape architects and homeowners with infinite flexibility in design configurations. Other design options for doors and drawer fronts include wood, and numerous other stainless steel choices and finishes.<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;color:black;" ><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;color:black;" >The company even has a great design tool that can be used to help create an outdoor dream kitchen. By downloading the company’s product library, homeowners and design / build professionals have countless options available at their fingertips – all to help create that dream kitchen. Danver even offers its own blog, a great place to learn more about their products, post comments and </span><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;color:black;" >ask questions. Get in on their online conversation, too, by going to <a href="http://danverstainless.wordpress.com/">http://danverstainless.wordpress.com</a>.
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<br /><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;color:black;" ><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:85%;"><b style=""><span style=";font-family:Arial;color:black;" ><o:p> </o:p></span></b></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;color:black;" >These are just a few of the many impressive product and design trends we uncovered at K/BIS 2009. As always, feel free to let me know if any of these products / companies are of interest. Between our clients and other great companies we know, we will be blogging a lot in the coming weeks and months about some of this year’s newest and most coveted products in the Home, Garden, Design, and Agribusiness Industries. And, if there is a specific product or trend you do not see but want to blog about with us, let us know. We can most likely share applicable experiences as we observe them and hear from you about your interests.
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<br /><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;color:black;" ><span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;color:black;" ><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >~ Doug (<span style="color:blue;"><a href="mailto:dougborkman@eberlypr.com"><span style="color:blue;">dougborkman@eberlypr.com</span></a></span>) </span><span style="font-size:85%;"><u><span style="color:blue;"><o:p></o:p></span></u></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:85%;"><b style=""><span style=";font-family:Arial;color:black;" ><o:p> </o:p></span></b></span></p> Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34078088.post-28043205414589663362009-05-21T15:07:00.000-07:002009-05-21T15:16:52.863-07:00My Favorite Moments at ANLA<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQnO7m5H1gP9RW_Ra7FKXrJdtKXLlM6iUfNS3NWrBokZFBtS0KwZHJPNyehZqIr1Aa4mMV4RfnZqJvQ-e4WywlGuluRrFF1zF-km8qJuL3otfISILgy3TrjovEd-O796gI4pYo/s1600-h/PICT0009.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 285px; height: 214px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQnO7m5H1gP9RW_Ra7FKXrJdtKXLlM6iUfNS3NWrBokZFBtS0KwZHJPNyehZqIr1Aa4mMV4RfnZqJvQ-e4WywlGuluRrFF1zF-km8qJuL3otfISILgy3TrjovEd-O796gI4pYo/s320/PICT0009.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5338403604102909682" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:85%;">I recently found myself sharing a few stories from the ANLA Management Clinic to my colleague even after four months have past. It was such a powerful, well-rounded conference, and I wanted to share a brief synopsis of what I found to be the top three highlights for me from the session.<br /><br /></span><span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;font-size:85%;" >In no particular order…</span><span style="font-size:85%;"><br /><br /></span><span style="color: rgb(102, 0, 0); font-weight: bold;font-size:85%;" >Ernest Wertheim</span><span style="font-size:85%;"><br /><br />I cleared my schedule to make sure I was able to attend this evening with Ernest, and it was well worth it. From the moment I stepped into the room, I felt an intense feeling of anticipation buzzing from every table. As the room darkened and the crowd hushed, Mr. Wertheim became the ultimate story-teller with tales of his childhood in Germany, fascinating World War II missions, how he met his lovely wife, and how he became one of the most well-known landscapers in the industry. It was a story that, even after two hours, none of us wanted to end. One of the aspects I found so fascinating about the 89 year history of this man was that nearly everything he spoke about applied to the horticulture industry – even if his experiences with landscaping only made up a quarter of his story. His endurance and “never give up” attitude brought him through difficult times much more horrifying than what most of us could ever imagine. He succeeded by taking advantage of every opportunity, small or big. And, that message was something I took with me when I stepped out of the room. Even while we are all struggling during this tough economy, small opportunities present themselves and help us succeed. We just need to keep our eyes wide open and accept the small jobs along with the large ones. Also, some good news? They said Mr. Wertheim may be back next year!<br /><br /></span><span style="color: rgb(102, 0, 0); font-weight: bold;font-size:85%;" >Novalis Plants that Work Display</span><span style="font-size:85%;"><br /><br />It is hard not to recognize the diamond sponsor of the ANLA event, <a href="http://www.novalis.com/">Novalis Plants that Work</a>. They delivered us a grand party Friday night and a lovely display throughout the </span><span style="font-size:85%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwdcyF9w1pGQLhLCiIMbdUJot-Pkhm8KsxXwhnvvf5i1I8FS26L7l4iEeDF2bd8jVJG8l7J5Lz-VNErBUEufqZDDHA5S-fx6U0skfEyupCsvxxFE4w5UTwsyNTmJ4ESvekCjXW/s1600-h/PICT0013.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 250px; height: 187px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwdcyF9w1pGQLhLCiIMbdUJot-Pkhm8KsxXwhnvvf5i1I8FS26L7l4iEeDF2bd8jVJG8l7J5Lz-VNErBUEufqZDDHA5S-fx6U0skfEyupCsvxxFE4w5UTwsyNTmJ4ESvekCjXW/s320/PICT0013.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5338404003516532034" border="0" /></a></span><span style="font-size:85%;">hall. True to the event’s golf theme, Novalis set up golf bags and turf scenes throughout the area, ending in a breathtaking exhibit of some of their newest plant introductions from Plants that Work and Plants that Work by Color. They gave away golf balls and tees, and even had places to play a few holes, sit in lounge chairs, or literally stop and smell a bit of spring (which we were all desperately anticipating in January). Some of my favorite plants for this year? Diervilla ‘Cool Splash’, often referred to as Northern Bush Honeysuckle. It is an inaugural variegated form of Diervilla with panicles of yellow trumpets cover striking, multicolored foliage. Another favorite of mine was their new orchid, Bletilla ochracea ‘Chinese Butterfly’. This shade landscape orchid features delicate, creamy-yellow flowers accented by a dotted, maroon lip. It can be planted to form large clumps that provide a large presence in the landscape. May I just say, thank you, Novalis; I heard from many it was the best ANLA yet!<br /></span><br /><span style="color: rgb(102, 0, 0); font-weight: bold;font-size:85%;" >Erik Wahl</span><span style="font-size:85%;"><br /><br />For those of you whom attended ANLA this year, my third selection is not a big surprise. Erik Wahl, a professional inspirational speaker, made each and every member </span><span style="font-size:85%;">of the audience think outside the box... for the remainder of the conference (and I have no doubt far longer). Using paint as his muse, he spoke of how life is neither limited, nor does it have boundaries for greatness. Through creativity, we can make our businesses more successful, our relationships stronger, and our personal lives better. While it may sound slightly hokey, it truly was something most of us had never seen. He allowed us a brief glimpse into his incredible painting talents (painting upside-down was something else) – talents he found after he was 30. We get so caught up in our everyday routine, we often forget that “safe choices” are often the path to mediocrity. It’s a hard keynote session to explain in much more detail, so here is a <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TNQGYSpC8mQ&feature=related">YouTube video</a>. Enjoy.<br /><br />~ Leslie</span>Leslie Kirkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08709744875570352252noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34078088.post-28290884289632365712009-04-27T12:51:00.000-07:002009-04-28T08:04:52.231-07:00Pot Wraps Capitalize on Edibles Trend<span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-family:arial;">Edibles are one of the most discussed topics in the industry these days, and growers and garden center retailers are attempting to determine the best ways to tackle the new trend. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">Edibles are also becoming increasingly popular with homeowners. We, at Eberly Public Relations, call it the “Backyard-</span></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi28vweYK8d6EnJ6hCxtFC06HlHRNeJCwnM5RJktDejjllCA0QtNc_VVkD2yHs23d_zHJMYhQodbEGBRmbiGJGXpz0Bwn74tbLqEwcBk8joSw6ubiFbwisvR92qGClQpt1p79pv4w/s1600-h/HIP+Pot+Wrap+-+Blueberry+-+Photo.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 147px; height: 205px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi28vweYK8d6EnJ6hCxtFC06HlHRNeJCwnM5RJktDejjllCA0QtNc_VVkD2yHs23d_zHJMYhQodbEGBRmbiGJGXpz0Bwn74tbLqEwcBk8joSw6ubiFbwisvR92qGClQpt1p79pv4w/s320/HIP+Pot+Wrap+-+Blueberry+-+Photo.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5329467833349017714" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-family:arial;">to-Table” trend. Yet, while consumers are purchasing edibles to grow in their yards and gardens, these products are still somewhat of a mystery to many of them. Without green thumbs, and since many edibles need to be purchased and planted prior to the blooming and fruiting season, many homeowners lack the understanding they need to make informed purchasing decisions. </span><br /></span><br /><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-family:arial;">One quite imp</span></span><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-family:arial;">ressive grower of small fruit plants, <a href="http://www.kraemersnursery.com/">Kraemer’s Nursery, Inc.</a>, and a well-known horticulture labeling products company, <a href="http://www.hiplabels.com/">Horticultural Identification Products</a> – HIP, have developed a solution that educates consumers about edibles in a way that entices and informs them. As a result, the grower is seeing a major growth in pre-season orders and sales</span></span><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-family:arial;">. And, in these times, “increased sales” is very good and positive news. </span><br /></span><br /><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-family:arial;">HIP exclusively developed and implemented Kraemer’s Nursery, Inc. pot wraps to showcase ripe fruit long before it is evident how the plants will produce, which </span></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxejodY8bAzhRkyQSqcj0mEwoRzJwr2ShhyuYlYjI5qxnIxdpfLe2Ovs_dY_2b5SZwbtNsSPaaEPjgX8FXcFZ9XAzNZmQb_nQtjSQKko6ym_cYBJYqlORra1Y6mcSXjFWmPCeIOg/s1600-h/HIP+Pot+Wrap+-+Five+Fruits+-+Photo.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 169px; height: 236px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxejodY8bAzhRkyQSqcj0mEwoRzJwr2ShhyuYlYjI5qxnIxdpfLe2Ovs_dY_2b5SZwbtNsSPaaEPjgX8FXcFZ9XAzNZmQb_nQtjSQKko6ym_cYBJYqlORra1Y6mcSXjFWmPCeIOg/s200/HIP+Pot+Wrap+-+Five+Fruits+-+Photo.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5329479488110394194" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-family:arial;">makes it easy for consumers to know what they are buying. </span></span><br /><br /><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-family:arial;">The pot wraps aim to maximize profitability for retailers by addressing the current and </span></span><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-family:arial;">popular “backya</span></span><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-family:arial;">rd-to-table” and edibles trend.</span></span><span style="font-size:85%;"><br /><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">According to Kraemer’s Nursery, Inc., there has been a 30-percent increase of small fruit plant pre-orders for spring. They directly attribute this to the new edibles craze and to the newly designed pot wraps from HIP. The pot wraps add style and consumer appeal to otherwise ordinary containers and were specifically designed to meet the marketing needs of independent garden centers and mass merchandisers.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">If you are a member of the media and have questions about these pot wraps and / or the fruit plants, I’ll be glad to tell you more. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">- Doug</span></span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34078088.post-48621881673297717572009-04-07T10:58:00.000-07:002009-04-07T11:50:25.472-07:00America’s Mart Blog Post<span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:85%;" >Don, Jeff and I attended the early 2009 <a href="http://www.americasmart.com/markets/giftrug/">Home, Rug, Gift and Apparel</a> show at <a href="http://www.americasmart.com/">America’s</a></span><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:85%;" ><a href="http://www.americasmart.com/"> Mart</a> in Atlanta. While there, we met a lot of great folks in the industry, learned about some of the exciting 2009 innovations companies are offering, and saw a lot of new and trend-setting products. Since we specialize in providing integrated Marketing Communication</span><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:85%;" >s services for companies in the field – and be</span><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:85%;" >cause we contribute articles and product narratives for the Home and Garden media – </span><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:85%;" >we spent a good amount of time at the event collecting information about the hot colors and design trends of the year.</span><br /><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:85%;" ><br />Fresh and vibrant new colors and interesting textures were the apparent theme. Whether the new deep</span><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:85%;" > red that seems to be ta</span><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:85%;" >king Home and Garden by storm these days or the range of blues to purples or greens, muted grays, taupes, and browns, the new color trends for 2009 were visible everywhere we looked. Textures were more diverse as compared to </span><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:85%;" >last year in many ways. This included everything from combining cera</span><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:85%;" >mic and cork to patinas with panache.<br /></span><br /><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:85%;" >Among many of the new products and trends we captured at the show, several were of particular interest. I’ve provided brief overviews of a few of our favorites here. If you are a member of the trade or consumer media and h</span><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:85%;" >ave interest in any of these companies or products, feel free to touch base with us. We can gladly put you in touch with</span><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:85%;" > the right contacts to learn more. </span><span style="font-weight: bold;font-family:arial;font-size:85%;" ><br /><br /></span><span style="font-weight: bold;font-family:arial;font-size:85%;" >Seasonal Living</span><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:85%;" > </span><br /><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:85%;" >Specifically, from <a href="http://www.seasonalliving.com/">Seasonal Living</a>, wa</span><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:85%;" >s a fresh line-up of great new lava lamps.</span><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:85%;" > In addition to coconut shell furniture (below-le</span><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:85%;" >f</span><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:85%;" >t), comp</span><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:85%;" >any representative Gary Pettitt proudly displayed natural materials that </span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitPpw33QimbdeIyc2Ch0ict9fWycZ5yr4Eb_NzgqEsk28R_oIH1hd005ZewrzHJxXDI0l_qzMFL_TBH3TD4vizfiuao1wh8WsAkdb_9Sv_KDf-VzSnWn5eOdTwelT7GTDqmFV-2Q/s1600-h/SeasonalLiving3.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 134px; height: 169px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitPpw33QimbdeIyc2Ch0ict9fWycZ5yr4Eb_NzgqEsk28R_oIH1hd005ZewrzHJxXDI0l_qzMFL_TBH3TD4vizfiuao1wh8WsAkdb_9Sv_KDf-VzSnWn5eOdTwelT7GTDqmFV-2Q/s320/SeasonalLiving3.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5322015241931794578" border="0" /></a><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:85%;" >comprise their handsome inventory. Furniture </span><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:85%;" >and accessories of carved limestone, sandstone, </span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVvLqOV5MLjWM4vwRrHXXsKLD0MzJVBMDRN7XIRFYIGNPcnDxnQlhqERAnVM_ntPBf1S9FRwNsQivwN4qcF83S7ekjqH-1QgaEbrNSVawJm8z5EM3iv0arK5HF_plFBdayJYI0ww/s1600-h/SeasonalLiving4.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 135px; height: 189px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVvLqOV5MLjWM4vwRrHXXsKLD0MzJVBMDRN7XIRFYIGNPcnDxnQlhqERAnVM_ntPBf1S9FRwNsQivwN4qcF83S7ekjqH-1QgaEbrNSVawJm8z5EM3iv0arK5HF_plFBdayJYI0ww/s200/SeasonalLiving4.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5322016239393545618" border="0" /></a><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:85%;" >honed trav</span><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:85%;" >ertine, and Carrara marble mad</span><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:85%;" >e an eye-catching vignette. Various </span><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:85%;" >tropical woods, </span><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:85%;" >weatherproof leather, glass, teak, glazed and </span><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:85%;" >unglazed ceramic, birdseed,</span><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:85%;" > bamboo, mother of pearl, and resin composite </span><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:85%;" >pieces were als</span><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:85%;" >o </span><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:85%;" >displayed. The company’s surprising</span><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:85%;" > range of furnishings s</span><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:85%;" >uits contemporary, classic, and exotic design palettes. They are hand chosen and never mass produced, </span><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:85%;" >making them tr</span><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:85%;" >uly unique. <span style="font-weight: bold;"><br /><br /></span></span><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:85%;" ><span style="font-weight: bold;">The Magnolia Company</span><br /><a href="http://www.themagnoliacompany.com/">The Magnolia Company</a>’s Seeds of Li</span><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:85%;" >fe are sure to be a hit for bridal or baby showers in 2009. We</span><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:85%;" > think they will be perfect for Valentine’s Day, Mother’s Day, or for anyone looking to give a living gift that lasts. With the trend of getting back to nature and the simpler things of life, gift-giving is taking on a new r</span><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:85%;" >ealm; </span><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:85%;" >Magnolia Company is addressing this by offering eco-friendly Seeds of Life products.<br /></span><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4QAUwu86zXXyMil3KfPtBxbPmt8qdvodl-DUmiGyEke8TnKC2wnfNPjozaofPqlXbDsUzrdO9Go8FuXayPkIAE42OR_vhqsE-I21OpbxET1haBpPUOB3kIF9Py-THb0AUDBQcvw/s1600-h/Magnolia+1.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 140px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4QAUwu86zXXyMil3KfPtBxbPmt8qdvodl-DUmiGyEke8TnKC2wnfNPjozaofPqlXbDsUzrdO9Go8FuXayPkIAE42OR_vhqsE-I21OpbxET1haBpPUOB3kIF9Py-THb0AUDBQcvw/s200/Magnolia+1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5322016489005131890" border="0" /></a><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:85%;" >The company shared with us that since </span><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:85%;" >planting a tree is a beautiful way to honor a cherished person, they have found their Seeds of Life products to be popular for memorial services. Many occasions are fitting, whether welcoming the birth of a child</span><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:85%;" >, commemorating a milestone b</span><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:85%;" >irthday, or honoring the passing of a loved one. Planting a tree is a meaningful way to leave a legacy. Magnolia Company provides three different ways to gift a tree – as a seed package, a seedling, or larger gift tree. Each one is grown on the company’s tree farm and beautifully packaged for delivery.<br /></span><br /><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:85%;" >Company owner Matt Rot</span><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:85%;" >h explained that seed favor boxes can be personalized </span><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:85%;" >to coordinate with wedding colors and create a meaningful gift that w</span><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:85%;" >ill grow into a tree for years following a wedding. </span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGpO8PfHTlNRREGMuUoGOSiC2IrTchjNyLG7sFioNiWK4KmsD1sFFfG08dD6uQddW5UicGCna04UrbAYMxrqGUSelwePOQRdxZTVEfnMn7X7rjZbLbZlA_8l54ihQmcfWFetzo8A/s1600-h/Magnolia.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGpO8PfHTlNRREGMuUoGOSiC2IrTchjNyLG7sFioNiWK4KmsD1sFFfG08dD6uQddW5UicGCna04UrbAYMxrqGUSelwePOQRdxZTVEfnMn7X7rjZbLbZlA_8l54ihQmcfWFetzo8A/s200/Magnolia.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5322016600131034258" border="0" /></a><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:85%;" >Here’s </span><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:85%;" >what we liked best of all… Matt and his team make it easy; </span><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:85%;" >buyers can pick the appropriate tree or gift according to zip code. He books orders around wedding days and ships the favors three days prior </span><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:85%;" >to the events. No immediate care is required, as the seeds do not need additional waterin</span><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:85%;" >g or maintenance for three weeks.<br /></span><br /><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:85%;" >To exhibit just how perfect they are for weddings, the Magnolia Company created a beautiful display showcasing the seed favor boxes tied with lavender ribbons and neatly stacked atop a beautiful white cak</span><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:85%;" >e pedestal. <span style="font-weight: bold;"><br /><br /></span></span><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:85%;" ><span style="font-weight: bold;">P</span></span><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:85%;" ><span style="font-weight: bold;">acific Arts & Crafts</span><br />We were also captivated by the wide range of attractive and stylish p</span><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:85%;" >lanters from <a href="http://www.copperglassplanters.com/">Pacific Arts & Crafts</a>, as they displayed the current trend of distressed copper. </span><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:85%;" >Their exclusive line of decorative and versatile co</span><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:85%;" >pperglass planters marries the rich color of copper with the lightweight durability of fiberglass, thus utilizing the positive qualities of both materials.</span><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-mMHXJUkgA2QWsQMfYxk28f8xiUcW9IjhE64SMxrKl4lEyCqrWZaJh_o_XQRycDxViz2aVH_JuY2YGb5b6vey8Omnh0haX8CQWDiVEC4qvd129S9YtWrA2gpPEVouaETBqnxlSQ/s1600-h/Pacific+Arts.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 233px; height: 162px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-mMHXJUkgA2QWsQMfYxk28f8xiUcW9IjhE64SMxrKl4lEyCqrWZaJh_o_XQRycDxViz2aVH_JuY2YGb5b6vey8Omnh0haX8CQWDiVEC4qvd129S9YtWrA2gpPEVouaETBqnxlSQ/s320/Pacific+Arts.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5322016858846822274" border="0" /></a><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:85%;" >Because they are handcrafted of fiberglass, copperglass planters can be enjoyed indoors as beauti</span><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:85%;" >ful cachepots or outdoors in any climate. The planters are extremely frost resistant and can be easily drilled for drainage. The company’s proprietary method of finishing with a layer of real copper creates the elegant look of solid metal without the excessive weight. As with traditional cop</span><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:85%;" >per planters, copperglass planters will naturally oxidize over time, creating stunning patinas and a more natural copper look. Handcrafted and hand finished, each planter is slightly unique in color gradation, creating a one of a kind piece for home or garden. We were amazed at the many copper products at the show this year, given the lowering cost of materials s</span><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:85%;" >ince mid-2008. Pacific Arts & Crafts’ planters, in particular, stood out to us with their high-end detailing</span><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:85%;" >.</span><br /><br /><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:85%;" ><span style="font-weight: bold;">Viducci’s Garden</span></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_401ykikgTSai3Oj7Ro9wo9_QAPDpknOYmGrjE46NuZNIg62W0BbRtOzO-tlMepsEfTbo1rDq4ggHzHGHVCSfrsfqfjayq-Mtf6e_z30-L4hvGAkKEHotJN9vyoxgVVJArFSP2w/s1600-h/Viducci+1.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 138px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_401ykikgTSai3Oj7Ro9wo9_QAPDpknOYmGrjE46NuZNIg62W0BbRtOzO-tlMepsEfTbo1rDq4ggHzHGHVCSfrsfqfjayq-Mtf6e_z30-L4hvGAkKEHotJN9vyoxgVVJArFSP2w/s200/Viducci+1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5322017073412558098" border="0" /></a><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:85%;" ><br /></span><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:85%;" ><a href="http://www.viduccisgardenusa.com/">Viducci’s Garden</a> ceramic is produced in the traditional manner, as it has been for hundreds of years. The </span><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:85%;" >entire Viducci’s collection is hand-crafted in factories that are known for quality </span><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:85%;" >work in American, European and Japane</span><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:85%;" >se</span><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:85%;" > markets. Their terra cotta planters are </span><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:85%;" >available in various classic and modern styles. Being hand-crafted as such ensures that no two products are exactly alike, a process that has evolved through centuries of dedication. The com</span><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:85%;" >pany boasts the kilns being used for their 2009 line of products have been in service since the year 1300, which we find</span><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:85%;" > amazing. </span><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:85%;" >The Viducci’s Garden product line has been created and designed to satisfy demand for high-quality container products in the upscale United States </span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnuPbNB3P5BtjKUxU4qWhTC252oWKu8g-3QTofQsQTU_iqoLvo4lGq6wo7dHPawW9Qe1DRyv9_yWsLO6Qxaxm_UePKJb1FAf5cfu9S5dww6xsPnlD5SqQoJGL_zKEMJAk1_RqR9w/s1600-h/Viducci+2.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 163px; height: 163px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnuPbNB3P5BtjKUxU4qWhTC252oWKu8g-3QTofQsQTU_iqoLvo4lGq6wo7dHPawW9Qe1DRyv9_yWsLO6Qxaxm_UePKJb1FAf5cfu9S5dww6xsPnlD5SqQoJGL_zKEMJAk1_RqR9w/s200/Viducci+2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5322017208581567458" border="0" /></a><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:85%;" >market. What’s more, the story behind how the company arrived at the Viducci’s name is an interesting </span><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:85%;" >one, as it is a combination of Vietnam and Germany, originating countries, as we learned directly from company President Walter Panfil at his showroom area.<br /></span><br /><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:85%;" >The “Oxide Dark Brown” cera</span><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:85%;" >mic container pictured above-left is certainly in keeping with the new trend color of bold brown. Its finish was likely the most beautiful we saw at the show this year, u</span><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:85%;" >ndoubtedly, a contributing factor to Viducci’s Garden receiving the coveted “Best Of Floor For Outstanding Visual Display” award at the America’s Mart last year (in 2008).</span><br /><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:85%;" ><br /></span><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:85%;" ><span style="font-weight: bold;">The Pottery Market</span></span><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:85%;" ><br /><a href="http://www.potterymarketnc.com/">The Pottery Market</a> features high-fired, frost-resistant </span><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:85%;" >Vietnamese pottery and unglazed terracotta pieces. </span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigukxeHlr3ZqK5s6pA25jykLUnF783yr7igJbv-Aa-bQBGARALUDD7fUDGtrgjnZAECloMPY4u59FZhIo31Sm-OR9AqtRkgqDWj6tWFBZeGBCh3pcYrqRntcnrRZCLQNNDLHQlGQ/s1600-h/Pottery+Market+1.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 140px; height: 180px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigukxeHlr3ZqK5s6pA25jykLUnF783yr7igJbv-Aa-bQBGARALUDD7fUDGtrgjnZAECloMPY4u59FZhIo31Sm-OR9AqtRkgqDWj6tWFBZeGBCh3pcYrqRntcnrRZCLQNNDLHQlGQ/s200/Pottery+Market+1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5322017473668113026" border="0" /></a><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:85%;" >They specialize in high-quality pottery of all shapes and sizes and have a </span><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:85%;" >new line of oil lamps and other accessories. They offe</span><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:85%;" >r a diverse selection of pottery designs and finishes from intricate and fashionable containers to basic good sense garden pots. </span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5e1pFC6pZ-5QlqJuAM4Q4qfrGqWLyHkMNzhs-_5J4GYwlxZ9P-06xpPzjbyHERsWcOPji_2-bbnDmo3pNxkXPGUB_F4JVkdtziuHjsEOrDeQAKnLTDm6Ljl0PHzHYgSLKrX6ioA/s1600-h/Pottery+Market+2.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 172px; height: 160px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5e1pFC6pZ-5QlqJuAM4Q4qfrGqWLyHkMNzhs-_5J4GYwlxZ9P-06xpPzjbyHERsWcOPji_2-bbnDmo3pNxkXPGUB_F4JVkdtziuHjsEOrDeQAKnLTDm6Ljl0PHzHYgSLKrX6ioA/s200/Pottery+Market+2.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5322017609871677106" border="0" /></a><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:85%;" >The Pottery Market also has </span><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:85%;" >birdbaths, gazing balls, strawberry jars, and herb planters. The company reports the Wasabi color (right) has been a strong seller for several years now and is expected to remain so in 2009. The color of this container is in keeping with a focus group study we did late last year to uncover color trend predictions for this year. So, we expect to see more home and garden products like these making their way into garden centers and retail locations soon. <span style="font-weight: bold;"><br /><br />Three Birds Casual</span></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhP5_7fV3i0cDR4qn4_PnFwcHVXR8gKYCCu67c6woQi5rKoZWDnWg5M5XD_ofmEf0cMATiw9PwTGOAqFOglyktkWe9wNREgzgT1r8Ocv0eL0acuWGggkva-bV_zhtSPH5FtahmZ0g/s1600-h/Three+Birds+Casual.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 244px; height: 174px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhP5_7fV3i0cDR4qn4_PnFwcHVXR8gKYCCu67c6woQi5rKoZWDnWg5M5XD_ofmEf0cMATiw9PwTGOAqFOglyktkWe9wNREgzgT1r8Ocv0eL0acuWGggkva-bV_zhtSPH5FtahmZ0g/s320/Three+Birds+Casual.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5322017899896131634" border="0" /></a><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:85%;" ><br />Having written about outdoor furniture many times, we enjoyed learning about <a href="http://www.three-birds.com/">Three Birds Casual</a>, one of the fastest growing manufacturers of premium furniture for the outdoor living market. We learned a few things about the company from its president, Tad Varga. Their casual teak furniture is a favorite among retailers an</span><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:85%;" >d designers who aspire to offer their clients or customers quality furniture with exceptional value. Classic character with quality construction is what the Three Birds Adirondack represents. Used with a matching footstool or without, the Three Birds Adirondack provides a restful and relaxing experience. But, we could see this for ourselves by taking a moment to sit in the chair and relax our show-worn </span><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:85%;" >feet. All of us imagined how these chairs could make a design statement in our own back lawns or on our patios, as similarly seen above in the photo. <span style="font-weight: bold;"><br /><br /></span></span><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:85%;" ><span style="font-weight: bold;">Scheurich</span><br />One <a href="http://www.scheurich.de/v2.0/en_index.php">Scheurich</a> offering of particular interest is the company’s opaque planters that are available in lilac (pictured), red and white. With glass furniture and accessories seeing </span><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:85%;" >a recent comeback, these planters artfully capture light </span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHzbohrtqpXizlzgi0MrPjzcNnN-0vre5XU2OgJuH9z1_tMF2R_0htYi3DL37F2RcOgCJVyK-cwAlK5jvRklUAPn9OUgLndNiRaZh2_QNIiM4UdgwFua2t6tavsgQO3JaeWBPiFQ/s1600-h/Scheurich.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 176px; height: 257px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHzbohrtqpXizlzgi0MrPjzcNnN-0vre5XU2OgJuH9z1_tMF2R_0htYi3DL37F2RcOgCJVyK-cwAlK5jvRklUAPn9OUgLndNiRaZh2_QNIiM4UdgwFua2t6tavsgQO3JaeWBPiFQ/s320/Scheurich.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5322018059144963346" border="0" /></a><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:85%;" >and </span><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:85%;" >capitalize on today’s trends of rich reds and purples being used to create home decor that is airy and bright. Their translucent surfaces are captivating with an unusual combination of light and color, as these planters create the effect of being illuminated from within their centers.</span><br /><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:85%;" ><br />Green plants with glossy leaves make great applications, as they capitalize on light emphasizing their foliage. We just might adorn the Eberly Public Relations offices with these planters, as they would cast a rich glow of color on sunny days. Look to Scheurich glass planters if you are interested in something unlike the norm. <span style="font-weight: bold;"><br /><br />Unique Stone Inc.</span><br /><a href="http://www.uniquestone.com/">Unique Stone, Inc.</a> has an interesting collection of terminal statues depicting the four seasons. According to the company, they provide a breathtaking design element to any home or even commercial spaces. The originals, which are circa 1902, were of fine carved marble. They were carefully restored and redesigned by the artisans of Unique Stone Inc. </span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGHmqBeSYUCR6HFSexGGj7Q09wtm8BBuNXSGAdHISZm1SDmM-J67b8FvymIz18c0DrHbMYRiAT7p8cSG2AbuyjzJg6vJnF-hljJh6JARSCmcGTqO72wKsKSy5hiw1EJq6kdDty8g/s1600-h/Unique+Stone.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 254px; height: 195px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGHmqBeSYUCR6HFSexGGj7Q09wtm8BBuNXSGAdHISZm1SDmM-J67b8FvymIz18c0DrHbMYRiAT7p8cSG2AbuyjzJg6vJnF-hljJh6JARSCmcGTqO72wKsKSy5hiw1EJq6kdDty8g/s320/Unique+Stone.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5322018506258044322" border="0" /></a><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:85%;" >Terminals were typically used to delineate property boundaries on large estates of the very wealthy in Europe and the United States, and they can be traced to the ancient Greeks. Integrating hardscapes with smartly designed landscapes is one of the most popular trends we are working on this year. This provides stunning visual </span><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:85%;" >interest and draws homeowners and guests to outdoor living areas. A garland of flowers can adorn the small knobs on the terminals, thus adding an artistic touch to enhance the sense of sight and smell. These terminals would be attractive under gazebos, in continuous fencing as posts, garden entries, and custom drives. We think they would be perfect additions per the season or when opting for all four. We’ll be keeping them in mind the next time we write an article about outdoor design spaces that are benefitted by substantial adornments that cause lasting impressions.<br /><br />Look for additional posts from us in the near future. Between our clients and other great companies we know, we will be blogging a lot in the coming weeks and months about some of this year’s newest and most coveted products in the Home, Garden, Design, and Agribusiness Industries. We’ll be helping clients and some of our editor friends at various home and garden shows in May and June; we’ll be sure to blog about more trends as we uncover them and when they unfold.<br /><br />- Doug </span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34078088.post-64216269550887410482009-04-07T08:59:00.000-07:002009-04-07T12:03:41.122-07:00'Tiki Torch' Wins at ANLA<meta equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=utf-8"><meta name="ProgId" content="Word.Document"><meta name="Generator" content="Microsoft Word 11"><meta name="Originator" content="Microsoft Word 11"><link style="font-family: arial;" rel="File-List" href="file:///C:%5CDOCUME%7E1%5CDBorkman%5CLOCALS%7E1%5CTemp%5Cmsohtml1%5C01%5Cclip_filelist.xml"><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:78%;" ><o:smarttagtype namespaceuri="urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:smarttags" name="State" downloadurl="http://www.5iamas-microsoft-com:office:smarttags"></o:smarttagtype><o:smarttagtype namespaceuri="urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:smarttags" name="City" downloadurl="http://www.5iamas-microsoft-com:office:smarttags"></o:smarttagtype><o:smarttagtype namespaceuri="urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:smarttags" name="place" downloadurl="http://www.5iantlavalamp.com/"></o:smarttagtype></span><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:worddocument> <w:view>Normal</w:View> <w:zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:punctuationkerning/> <w:validateagainstschemas/> <w:saveifxmlinvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid> <w:ignoremixedcontent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent> <w:alwaysshowplaceholdertext>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText> <w:compatibility> <w:breakwrappedtables/> <w:snaptogridincell/> <w:wraptextwithpunct/> <w:useasianbreakrules/> <w:dontgrowautofit/> </w:Compatibility> <w:browserlevel>MicrosoftInternetExplorer4</w:BrowserLevel> </w:WordDocument> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:latentstyles deflockedstate="false" latentstylecount="156"> </w:LatentStyles> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if !mso]><object classid="clsid:38481807-CA0E-42D2-BF39-B33AF135CC4D" id="ieooui"></object> <style> st1\:*{behavior:url(#ieooui) } </style> <![endif]--><style> <!-- /* Font Definitions */ @font-face {font-family:Calibri; mso-font-alt:"Times New Roman"; mso-font-charset:0; mso-generic-font-family:auto; mso-font-pitch:auto; mso-font-signature:0 0 0 0 0 0;} /* Style Definitions */ p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal {mso-style-parent:""; margin:0in; margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:11.0pt; font-family:Arial; mso-fareast-font-family:Calibri;} a:link, span.MsoHyperlink {color:blue; text-decoration:underline; text-underline:single;} a:visited, span.MsoHyperlinkFollowed {color:purple; text-decoration:underline; text-underline:single;} @page Section1 {size:8.5in 11.0in; margin:1.0in 1.25in 1.0in 1.25in; mso-header-margin:.5in; mso-footer-margin:.5in; mso-paper-source:0;} div.Section1 {page:Section1;} --> </style><!--[if gte mso 10]> <style> /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:10.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-ansi-language:#0400; mso-fareast-language:#0400; mso-bidi-language:#0400;} </style> <![endif]--><span style="font-size:78%;"><b style="">A Grand Entrance…
<br />
<br /><o:p></o:p></b></span> <p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-size:78%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-size:78%;">This year’s </span><span style=";font-size:78%;color:black;" ><a href="http://www.anla.org/">American Nursery and Landscape Association</a> <a href="http://www.managementclinic.org/">Management Clinic</a> in <st1:place st="on"><st1:city st="on">Louisville</st1:city>, <st1:state st="on">Ky.</st1:state></st1:place>, was an amazing experience, as is al</span><span style=";font-size:78%;color:black;" >ways</span><span style=";font-size:78%;color:black;" > the case.
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<br /></span><span style=";font-size:78%;color:black;" ><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-size:78%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-size:78%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhalil3J710ZSQzT-N1aTT9ML4lDW3MtJ6XVmVf8s58D2n9jq6tsBXJY7pTR3yKymsS-_kW55nx0c8LjS6yIAH3nSlFbl-c8BAFrIRpfD3yhCtugvRfa6t_zzuKXp_Qf4ksXZRNtg/s1600-h/Echinacea+%27Tiki+Torch%27+-+Photo+%283%29.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 250px; height: 167px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhalil3J710ZSQzT-N1aTT9ML4lDW3MtJ6XVmVf8s58D2n9jq6tsBXJY7pTR3yKymsS-_kW55nx0c8LjS6yIAH3nSlFbl-c8BAFrIRpfD3yhCtugvRfa6t_zzuKXp_Qf4ksXZRNtg/s320/Echinacea+%27Tiki+Torch%27+-+Photo+%283%29.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5321980893620790274" border="0" /></a></span><span style="font-size:78%;"><a href="http://www.gardensplendor.com/">Garden Splendor</a>, the premium plant collection that includes more than 500 perennials, </span><span style=";font-size:78%;color:black;" >annuals, shrubs, vines, and grasses</span><span style="font-size:78%;"> – and known for its yearly Showcase varieties – was well represented with the announcement that </span><span style=";font-size:78%;color:black;" >the brand’s new <a href="http://www.terranovanurseries.com/wholesale/modules.php?name=Content&pa=showpage&pid=420">Echinacea ‘Tiki Torch’</a> was the winning plant in the ANLA Plant Pa</span><span style="font-size:78%;">vilion. This was truly a grand entrance for this attention-grabbing plant.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-size:78%;">
<br /></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-size:78%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family:arial;"><span style=";font-size:78%;color:black;" >‘Tiki Torch’ features</span><span style="font-size:78%;"> large, dark orange blooms with broad florets and a spicy fragrance. It does wonderfully in full sun and generally reaches a height of 24 – 30 inches. Attractive, burnished copper-colored seed cones can be left to fortify small birds or dead headed to encourage increased reblooming. Its robust color remains intense for weeks rather than days. True to the company’s tagline, this plant is truly a “Plant Worth Remembering.”</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-size:78%;">
<br /></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-size:78%;"><i style=""><span style="color:red;"><o:p> </o:p></span></i></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family:arial;"><span style=";font-size:78%;color:black;" >We also enjoyed the time we spent meeting and working with Ed and Gail Overdevest, co-owners, and David Wilson, marketing director, of Overdevest Nurseries and the Garden Splendor brand. Their passion for </span><span style="font-size:78%;">Garden Splendor </span><span style=";font-size:78%;color:black;" >and horticulture in general is readily apparent.
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<br /></span><span style=";font-size:78%;color:black;" ><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-size:78%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family:arial;"><span style=";font-size:78%;color:black;" >To learn more about this variety, please visit </span><span style=";font-size:78%;color:blue;" ><a href="http://www.gardensplendor.com/">www.gardensplendor.com</a>. </span><span style="font-size:78%;">If you are a member of the media and would like to feature this variety for spring or summer, we will be glad to assist you with some pretty incredible images and the story behind this winning plant.
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<br /></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family:arial;"><span style=";font-size:78%;color:black;" ><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family:arial;"><span style=";font-size:78%;color:black;" >- Doug <o:p></o:p></span></p> Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34078088.post-76847596425240701652009-03-26T07:18:00.000-07:002009-03-26T07:23:07.140-07:00On Parr with ANLA 2009 Management Clinic<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJILMm36aODPzpsQ7mJApUyvuHW3rLwadscasrWR2pyrif-Tz4WGRxK704paHmTukgSKgxfhATaM4d-UG5JECZRUvZciCfIdRMkk5aTr1yjwHT-RpNV_nSMvDR5Ptwz_8UJxa_/s1600-h/ANLA.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 251px; height: 227px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJILMm36aODPzpsQ7mJApUyvuHW3rLwadscasrWR2pyrif-Tz4WGRxK704paHmTukgSKgxfhATaM4d-UG5JECZRUvZciCfIdRMkk5aTr1yjwHT-RpNV_nSMvDR5Ptwz_8UJxa_/s320/ANLA.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5317501483486141698" border="0" /></a><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:85%;" >I was lucky enough to score a ticket to this year’s ANLA 2009 Management Clinic in Louisville, KY. After having reflected upon my experience, I will be writing a short series of blog posts on this event in the coming days, but I wanted to start off by saying… WOW!<br /><br />This was my first time attending the Management Clinic, and while I had heard from many of you about how great this conference is, nothing could have prepared me for the amount of information and creative ideas that were shared in a mere matter of days! After a few “sprained” fingers from note-taking and some Red Bulls to keep me moving, there was one theme that resonated the entire weekend: (Do you remember this?)<br /><br />“Head down; keep your eye on the ball; swing through.”<br />“Head down; keep your eye on the ball; swing through.”<br />“Head down; keep your eye on the ball; swing through.”<br /><br />These are the wise words spoken by John Kennedy the first Saturday morning at the Clinic. For those of you whom were unable to attend, this phrase was used to suit two purposes – supporting the golf theme at the Clinic this year and pushing the mindset we all need to grasp during the roughest economy most of the attendees have ever witnessed.<br /><br />And, even though one of John’s hit golf balls barely missed shattering the hotel’s chandelier, the meaning behind his words touched us all. Times are hard. We need to keep our minds concentrated on what is important, be creative, and work harder than ever before.<br /><br />In fact, Aaron Davis, one of the incredible speakers over the weekend, kept repeating during his presentation on Leadership Made Simple that we must focus on our “Why” in order to succeed. Whether you are in this industry because you want to better the World one plant at a time or because you are part of your family’s company legacy, you must hold onto your “Why” in order to make the best of 2009. This is what will drive us to survive and grow as an industry.<br /><br />So, everyone, even if you need to write it on a sticky note or type it on your screen-saver to serve as a reminder… keep your “Head down; keep your eye on the ball; swing through.”<br /><br />Do you know your “Why?”<br /><br />More to come…<br /><br />~ Leslie</span>Leslie Kirkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08709744875570352252noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34078088.post-51036580696488705892009-03-09T14:47:00.000-07:002009-03-11T17:56:30.418-07:00Asian Fascination<span style="font-size:85%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimcp-5NqId5-cMhJsnVK-XmQYQlSf0EedD3SQA15ArBCoMuE9wRIPHdaHq-Kfnjim1UI9IbHCrytjyES9eI0uCI5KcP7tvtZGCeCZJuVfJLZfcYGiV-KTSztyr5o0BpYQG4Rt_/s1600-h/Dan+-+11.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 213px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimcp-5NqId5-cMhJsnVK-XmQYQlSf0EedD3SQA15ArBCoMuE9wRIPHdaHq-Kfnjim1UI9IbHCrytjyES9eI0uCI5KcP7tvtZGCeCZJuVfJLZfcYGiV-KTSztyr5o0BpYQG4Rt_/s320/Dan+-+11.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5311310145561601170" border="0" /></a></span><meta equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=utf-8"><meta name="ProgId" content="Word.Document"><meta name="Generator" content="Microsoft Word 11"><meta name="Originator" content="Microsoft Word 11"><link style="font-family: arial;" rel="File-List" href="file:///C:%5CDOCUME%7E1%5CLKirk%5CLOCALS%7E1%5CTemp%5Cmsohtml1%5C01%5Cclip_filelist.xml"><span style="font-size:85%;"><o:smarttagtype style="font-family: arial;" namespaceuri="urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:smarttags" name="PlaceType"></o:smarttagtype><o:smarttagtype style="font-family: arial;" namespaceuri="urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:smarttags" name="PlaceName"></o:smarttagtype><o:smarttagtype style="font-family: arial;" namespaceuri="urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:smarttags" name="country-region"></o:smarttagtype><o:smarttagtype style="font-family: arial;" namespaceuri="urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:smarttags" name="place"></o:smarttagtype><o:smarttagtype style="font-family: arial;" namespaceuri="urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:smarttags" name="State"></o:smarttagtype><o:smarttagtype style="font-family: arial;" namespaceuri="urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:smarttags" name="City"></o:smarttagtype></span><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:worddocument> <w:view>Normal</w:View> <w:zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:punctuationkerning/> <w:validateagainstschemas/> <w:saveifxmlinvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid> <w:ignoremixedcontent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent> <w:alwaysshowplaceholdertext>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText> <w:compatibility> <w:breakwrappedtables/> <w:snaptogridincell/> <w:wraptextwithpunct/> <w:useasianbreakrules/> <w:dontgrowautofit/> </w:Compatibility> <w:browserlevel>MicrosoftInternetExplorer4</w:BrowserLevel> </w:WordDocument> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:latentstyles deflockedstate="false" latentstylecount="156"> </w:LatentStyles> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if !mso]><object classid="clsid:38481807-CA0E-42D2-BF39-B33AF135CC4D" id="ieooui"></object> <style> st1\:*{behavior:url(#ieooui) } </style> <![endif]--><style> <!-- /* Style Definitions */ p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal {mso-style-parent:""; margin:0in; margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:12.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman";} a:link, span.MsoHyperlink {color:blue; text-decoration:underline; text-underline:single;} a:visited, span.MsoHyperlinkFollowed {color:purple; text-decoration:underline; text-underline:single;} @page Section1 {size:8.5in 11.0in; margin:1.0in 1.25in 1.0in 1.25in; mso-header-margin:.5in; mso-footer-margin:.5in; mso-paper-source:0;} div.Section1 {page:Section1;} --> </style><!--[if gte mso 10]> <style> /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:10.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-ansi-language:#0400; mso-fareast-language:#0400; mso-bidi-language:#0400;} </style> <![endif]--> <p style="font-family: arial;font-family:arial;" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">A </span><st1:city style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);" st="on">Portland</st1:city><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"> local has been selected to speak at the Annual Plant Fair at the </span><a href="http://www.portlandchinesegarden.org/">Classical Chinese Garden</a> in Portland, Ore. As president and co-owner of Oregon-based nursery, <a href="http://www.terranovanurseries.com/">Terra Nova Nurseries</a>, Dan Heims has helped introduce over 600 new plant varieties to gardeners all over the <st1:place style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);" st="on"><st1:country-region st="on">United States</st1:country-region></st1:place><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">. Heims also shares a unique love of the environment and plants as do so many in the </span><st1:city style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);" st="on"><st1:place st="on">Portland</st1:place></st1:city><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"> area, and now he hopes to </span><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">share some of his knowledge during this education-based lecture on March 21, 2009. </span><o:p style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"></o:p></span></p> <p style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: arial;font-family:arial;" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:85%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: arial;font-family:arial;" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:85%;"><o:p>
<br /></o:p></span></p><span style="font-family: arial;font-family:arial;font-size:85%;" ><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">If you are interested, and will be in the Portland area, the details include the following: </span><o:p></o:p></span> <p style="font-family: arial;font-family:arial;" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:85%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: arial;font-family:arial;" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:85%;"><o:p>
<br /></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: arial;font-family:arial;" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:85%;"><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: arial;font-family:arial;" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:85%;"><b>What:</b> Dan Heims will cover the horticulture marvels of Asia, how to collect plants and bring them home, and an overview of Asian nurseries and “wacky” collectors in his lecture called “Asian Fascination.” Slides will be presented of incredible plants from this region in cultivation and in the wild.<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: arial;font-family:arial;" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:85%;"><b>When:</b> March 21, 2009 at 11:00 a.m. and again at 2:00 p.m.<b><o:p></o:p></b></span></p> <p style="font-family: arial;font-family:arial;" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:85%;"><b style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Where:</b><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"> The </span><st1:placename style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);" st="on">Chinese</st1:placename><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"> </span><st1:placetype style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);" st="on">Garden</st1:placetype><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"> on NW 3</span><sup style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">rd</sup><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"> & </span><st1:city style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);" st="on">Everett</st1:city><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">, </span><st1:place style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);" st="on"><st1:city st="on">Portland</st1:city>, <st1:state st="on">Oregon</st1:state></st1:place><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">.</span><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p style="font-family: arial;font-family:arial;" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:85%;"><b>Web Sites of Interest</b>: <a href="http://www.terranovanurseries.com/">www.terranovanurseries.com</a>; <a href="http://www.portlandchinesegarden.org/">http://www.portlandchinesegarden.org/</a><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: arial;font-family:arial;" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:85%;">
<br /></span></p><p style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: arial;font-family:arial;" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:85%;">Hope to see you there!</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: arial;font-family:arial;font-size:85%;" >~Leslie</span>
<br /><span style="font-size:10;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> Leslie Kirkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08709744875570352252noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34078088.post-38962590634253141152009-01-20T07:10:00.000-08:002009-01-20T08:31:45.858-08:00Dan Heims Speaks to the Masses!<span style="font-size:85%;">Alright all you <a href="http://www.terranovanurseries.com/wholesale/modules.php?name=Content&pa=showpage&pid=463">Dan Heims</a> fans, there are plenty of opportunities to see him speaking on all things plant-nerd, er, horticulture in the upcoming months!<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQlcjgKpaHZzb_WoPGjubkGjZdq51LMyhmDv045oy54l3d8ElKTL3iAQc9Zfl0QEXuo37_FCKH1ZJ870e8GtXhXFVmmduz-pJUdeD2mXit8Q5d6AMFkK1PA97Q9VoVIx1FwLG-/s1600-h/Container_4b.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 184px; height: 214px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQlcjgKpaHZzb_WoPGjubkGjZdq51LMyhmDv045oy54l3d8ElKTL3iAQc9Zfl0QEXuo37_FCKH1ZJ870e8GtXhXFVmmduz-pJUdeD2mXit8Q5d6AMFkK1PA97Q9VoVIx1FwLG-/s320/Container_4b.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5293396153178719170" border="0" /></a><br /></span><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:100%;" >Upcoming Events this Spring:</span><span style="font-size:85%;"><br /><br /></span><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:85%;" ><span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="color: rgb(153, 0, 0);">The Summit County Master Gardeners of Ohio </span></span></span><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="color: rgb(153, 0, 0); font-weight: bold;">presents</span>:</span></span><span style="font-size:85%;"> “Containers </span><span style="font-size:85%;">and Small-space Gardening” and “Flash and Splash” from Dan Heims on January 24 & 25. For more details on attending, click <a href="http://summit.osu.edu/master_gardener">HERE</a>.<br /><br /></span><ul><li><span style="font-size:85%;"> “Containers and Small-space Gardening” synopsis: Dan's trips around the world have exposed him to an amazing array of wild containers planted with the most unusual plants. Dan will cover these as well as a wide assortment of unusual plant materials that give new life to containers. (Heads-up! He will provide some great tips on how to design containers and small garden spaces as well as helpful information on maintaining soil fertility and plant health for ultimate success.)</span></li></ul><ul><li><span style="font-size:85%;"> “Flash and Splash” synopsis: One of the most comprehensive slide presentations of variegated and colored-leaved plants in the world, including surprises from New Zealand, Japan, and Europe. Topics include: How variegated plants are discovered, chimera vs. virus, and classification of variegation. How to use color in design, featuring color echoes, repetition, contrast, and harmony.</span></li></ul><span style="font-size:85%;"><br /><span style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(153, 0, 0); font-weight: bold;">Yard, Garden, and Patio Show presents:</span> “New Perennials from Around the World” by Dan Heims on February 27. This show is open to everyone! So, if you’re in the area (or have always wanted that lovely trip to Portland, Ore.), visit <a href="http://www.ygpshow.com/">HERE</a> for details on tickets, times, etc.<br /><br /></span><ul><li><span style="font-size:85%;">“New Perennials from Around the World” synopsis: Ever wonder how new plants are found? Well, Dan will be sharing his whirlwind tour of ten horticultural countries (Japan, China, Germany, Tasmania, Australia, US, Holland, England, Ireland & New Zealand) and how he found his fellow brethren in each country and the plants they love. His focus will be on hardy perennials but exceptional "temperennials" will also be shown. In his most popular presentation, he will also provide tips on how to get plants into the U.S. legally. </span></li></ul><span style="font-size:85%;"><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrs4tZ2eLihsWBX__sjjRl5q2VlZve-lml-kySoHmd6ibejcUlYtKCmrwqtprYf3QtWusf7wvDYXkdJG970c7l2Ps7_5JIQTCPg_IqeFu1mCeTZFlM7DrV2SIbhp-S_pVGOAi5/s1600-h/Echinacea+%27Mac+%27n%27+Cheese%27+and+%27Tomato+Soup%27+Combo.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 257px; height: 171px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrs4tZ2eLihsWBX__sjjRl5q2VlZve-lml-kySoHmd6ibejcUlYtKCmrwqtprYf3QtWusf7wvDYXkdJG970c7l2Ps7_5JIQTCPg_IqeFu1mCeTZFlM7DrV2SIbhp-S_pVGOAi5/s320/Echinacea+%27Mac+%27n%27+Cheese%27+and+%27Tomato+Soup%27+Combo.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5293396316572131746" border="0" /></a></span><span style="font-size:85%;">Not available to attend? No problem! Details coming soon on additional talks by Dan Heims including the American Begonia Society Convention in West Palm Beach, FL, in April, and the De Vine Visions weekend event in Victoria, BC, in June.<br /><br />For more information on Dan and his available talks, visit the Terra Nova Nurseries Web site <a href="http://www.terranovanurseries.com/">HERE</a>!<br /><br />And, for those of you interested in an interview with Dan for an upcoming article or radio segment, feel free to contact me at<br /></span> lesliekirk@eberlypr.com. <span style="font-size:85%;"><br /><br />~ Leslie<br /></span>Leslie Kirkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08709744875570352252noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34078088.post-37107997162720238582009-01-16T10:32:00.000-08:002009-01-19T07:06:09.593-08:00A Winning Team<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfCN1ZreJ4eOMy6sHALvppRugKufke2sRmp8cfa5Uyif_wet9QIW4-xufhcA3kj1R-YTGieZnDEe2Lcq5PHlDpz1SPlZBl72X6NfTO4PArMDmmKcJivpzXwwqwzzbD7I6pZskU/s1600-h/Photo+2.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 235px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfCN1ZreJ4eOMy6sHALvppRugKufke2sRmp8cfa5Uyif_wet9QIW4-xufhcA3kj1R-YTGieZnDEe2Lcq5PHlDpz1SPlZBl72X6NfTO4PArMDmmKcJivpzXwwqwzzbD7I6pZskU/s400/Photo+2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5291979706063958178" border="0" /></a>
<br /><meta equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=utf-8"><meta name="ProgId" content="Word.Document"><meta name="Generator" content="Microsoft Word 11"><meta name="Originator" content="Microsoft Word 11"><link rel="File-List" href="file:///C:%5CDOCUME%7E1%5CLKirk%5CLOCALS%7E1%5CTemp%5Cmsohtml1%5C01%5Cclip_filelist.xml"><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:worddocument> <w:view>Normal</w:View> <w:zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:punctuationkerning/> <w:validateagainstschemas/> <w:saveifxmlinvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid> <w:ignoremixedcontent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent> <w:alwaysshowplaceholdertext>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText> <w:compatibility> <w:breakwrappedtables/> <w:snaptogridincell/> <w:wraptextwithpunct/> <w:useasianbreakrules/> <w:dontgrowautofit/> </w:Compatibility> <w:browserlevel>MicrosoftInternetExplorer4</w:BrowserLevel> </w:WordDocument> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:latentstyles deflockedstate="false" latentstylecount="156"> </w:LatentStyles> </xml><![endif]--><style> <!-- /* Style Definitions */ p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal {mso-style-parent:""; margin:0in; margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:12.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman";} a:link, span.MsoHyperlink {color:blue; text-decoration:underline; text-underline:single;} a:visited, span.MsoHyperlinkFollowed {color:purple; text-decoration:underline; text-underline:single;} span.EmailStyle16 {mso-style-type:personal; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-ansi-font-size:10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt; font-family:Arial; mso-ascii-font-family:Arial; mso-hansi-font-family:Arial; mso-bidi-font-family:Arial; color:navy;} @page Section1 {size:8.5in 11.0in; margin:1.0in 1.25in 1.0in 1.25in; mso-header-margin:.5in; mso-footer-margin:.5in; mso-paper-source:0;} div.Section1 {page:Section1;} --> </style><!--[if gte mso 10]> <style> /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:10.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-ansi-language:#0400; mso-fareast-language:#0400; mso-bidi-language:#0400;} </style> <![endif]--> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:85%;"><i><span style="font-family:Arial;">Landscape and Irrigation</span></i><span style="font-family:Arial;"> magazine (in case you don’t know already!) is an excellent trade resource for everything professional landscaping – from industry news to pests to products to irrigation.
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<br /><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-family:Arial;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-family:Arial;"><o:p> </o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-family:Arial;">Recently, the editor featured the relationship between leading national grower, Novalis, and a professional landscape architecture company, The Hayter Firm. The two worked together in order to maximize budget and project efficiency while planning the landscape for the 2005 U.S. Open in Pinehurst, NC.
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<br /><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-family:Arial;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-family:Arial;"><o:p> </o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-family:Arial;">After two years of collaboration, an amazing line-up of plants </span></span><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-family:Arial;">from Novalis Plants that Work, and several creative solutions, it was agreed by event planners and attendees that the landscape was one</span></span><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-family:Arial;"> of the best ever designed / installed for the U.S. Open.
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<br /><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-family:Arial;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-family:Arial;"><o:p> </o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-family:Arial;">Congrats to J. Guy, founder and manager for Novalis, and </span></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBTUgeI_dhH8OcPb9VerJEi58ADjncz3gj2Wmap_k_90qY1SHCrsc1PJL8NA7WE4EDX9n08s8RRsqKNHi1uvga9oNvYGzsrM9moNia5wp1Oxos5nuPlNuJRGzmgbUu8MQf85zp/s1600-h/Photo+1.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 211px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBTUgeI_dhH8OcPb9VerJEi58ADjncz3gj2Wmap_k_90qY1SHCrsc1PJL8NA7WE4EDX9n08s8RRsqKNHi1uvga9oNvYGzsrM9moNia5wp1Oxos5nuPlNuJRGzmgbUu8MQf85zp/s320/Photo+1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5291979597207911138" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-family:Arial;">Robert Hayter, owner of the Hayter Firm, for their landscape</span></span><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-family:Arial;"> </span></span><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-family:Arial;">and plant savvy that helped make this event a great success.
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<br /><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-family:Arial;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-family:Arial;"><o:p> </o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-family:Arial;">To learn more about these two companies, log onto… <a href="http://www.novalis.com/">www.novalis.com</a> / <a href="http://www.plantsthatwork.com/">www.plantsthatwork.com</a> and<span style="color:navy;"> <a href="http://www.thehayterfirm.com/">www.thehayterfirm.com</a>.
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<br /><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-family:Arial;"><span style=""> </span><span style="color:navy;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style=";font-family:Arial;color:navy;" ><o:p> </o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >Read the article <a href="http://www.landscapeirrigation.com/ME2/Audiences/dirmod.asp?sid=43E91E7F6E244F4C9357F73BE3523C30&nm=News+and+Features&type=Publishing&mod=Publications%3A%3AArticle&mid=8F3A7027421841978F18BE895F87F791&tier=4&id=64A55D5DD0DB4A68AFDA50F0793A4CB8&AudID=8BD4B6703E9D4B2BBBFF1F93AE1A4D3E">HERE</a>!!</span></p><p class="MsoNormal">
<br /></p><p class="MsoNormal">~Leslie
<br /><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" ><o:p></o:p></span></p> Leslie Kirkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08709744875570352252noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34078088.post-84971710273811047292008-12-24T07:20:00.000-08:002008-12-24T07:33:47.399-08:00<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7VqJiHPILLlLyRK2EjD8GtIM4maUvZkhPtFfg8xUKxB4RNj0Nsz0ot80noyZzvaDnP3mNJbMA9xe96wPDIe6d-kiGEhYi5R_QXb3KNGkb_EZEWZikgrAtE7-Gh78jlZRt-YE1ww/s1600-h/IMG_7242.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 91px; height: 137px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7VqJiHPILLlLyRK2EjD8GtIM4maUvZkhPtFfg8xUKxB4RNj0Nsz0ot80noyZzvaDnP3mNJbMA9xe96wPDIe6d-kiGEhYi5R_QXb3KNGkb_EZEWZikgrAtE7-Gh78jlZRt-YE1ww/s320/IMG_7242.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5283378624602345954" border="0" /></a><br /><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:85%;"><b style=""><span style="">Industry Leader Launches Sustainable Plant Program<o:p></o:p></span></b></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;" align="center"><span style="font-size:85%;"><b style=""><span style=""><o:p> </o:p></span></b></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="">One of the exciting new plant programs during 2008 came from Overdevest Nurseries, the founder of the</span><span style=""> Garden Splendor<i style="">®</i> brand of plants. The new program includes a line of sustainable plant products under the new Footprints™ brand name.</span><span style="font-size:85%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYOqwHpYwQIMjY-Q209tG7xGh-BNub9tsPrs1Ng8kZzAlPlPOj2-yGfzGLibZTeqVkJB-as3Xvx7xn9Kz4LhTtppX8pMJN9e74P93QVCzmA0uh-sPKXorKPWY4HEko4uL_Ml_ssQ/s1600-h/Footprints+Plant+and+Tag.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 128px; height: 170px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYOqwHpYwQIMjY-Q209tG7xGh-BNub9tsPrs1Ng8kZzAlPlPOj2-yGfzGLibZTeqVkJB-as3Xvx7xn9Kz4LhTtppX8pMJN9e74P93QVCzmA0uh-sPKXorKPWY4HEko4uL_Ml_ssQ/s320/Footprints+Plant+and+Tag.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5283377365392715122" border="0" /></a></span><span style=""> <o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=""><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="">Footprints™ is considered to be among the first product lines in the</span><span style=""> industry to be fully sustainable. It is a new line of decorative, eco-friendly patio plants. The program is being made available to independent garden centers in the Mid-Atlantic and Northeast for spring 2009.</span><span style=""> <o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=""><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p style="text-align: left;" class="MsoNormal"><span style=""><span style="font-size:85%;">This program is truly sustainable, not just in part, but fully “green.” We give kudos to Ed Overdevest, founder of Footprints™, because the plant varieties are grown using sustainable practices such as compost made from renewable soil ingredients and recycled irrigation water. Best of all, the plants are potted in</span></span><span style=""><span style="font-size:85%;"> natural-component containers and labeled with tags that are biodegradable. Bamboo stakes are even used for the tags, rather than plastic. </span><span style="color:black;"><span style="font-size:85%;">For online information, log onto <a href="http://www.footprintsplants.com/"><span style="color:blue;">www.footprintsplants.com</span></a> or contact us here at</span></span></span><span style=""><span style="color:black;"><span style="font-size:85%;"> Eberly Public Relations.</span></span></span></p>Adam Woodshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09295867262312873602noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34078088.post-30910019198164833892008-11-14T12:26:00.000-08:002008-11-14T12:45:31.830-08:00Meet Dan!With 32 years of experience in the Horticulture Industry, <a href="http://www.terranovanurseries.com/wholesale/modules.php?name=Content&pa=showpage&pid=463">Dan Heims</a> researches, speaks, writes, and stands at the forefront of the horticulture industry as president of <a href="http://www.terranovanurseries.com/">Terra Nova Nurseries</a>, Inc. Over the past 13 years, Terra Nova Nurseries has grown to become a world leader in plant breeding, introducing over 550 exciting new varieties to the global market, 498 of which include granted and pending patents in the United States, Europe and Japan. Heims has been an integral part of the company’s growth and success from its very beginning.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6ntYwfjpjGsrfrPqnoTIilpG14DBe5Sf4nje5V4StrqClhdIV8NN5gU1u4FG2rDiLG_aEtlAxhTLolBCLMc4UA7R0qiAakgXbHrBEnCSzA4RlFeEgdSPeJnlxMpvMi0Dz0yJ_/s1600-h/Image+4.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 155px; height: 219px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6ntYwfjpjGsrfrPqnoTIilpG14DBe5Sf4nje5V4StrqClhdIV8NN5gU1u4FG2rDiLG_aEtlAxhTLolBCLMc4UA7R0qiAakgXbHrBEnCSzA4RlFeEgdSPeJnlxMpvMi0Dz0yJ_/s320/Image+4.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5268615071937512226" border="0" /></a><br />As an educator, Heims is known as a knowledgeable enthusiast in all things horticulture. He has spent years lecturing all over the world, including the United States, Japan, England, New Zealand, Costa Rica, Germany, Holland, Denmark, Sweden, Switzerland, Tasmania, Australia, and Canada. From breeding to growing, Heims teaches people about his experiences in the industry.<br /><br /><br />And, now, you may be able to visit Dan at one of his <a href="http://www.terranovanurseries.com/wholesale/modules.php?name=Content&pa=showpage&pid=381">upcoming lectures</a> around the United States. A few talks in 2009 include the following:<br /><br /><br />• 2009 <a href="http://www.glte.org/">Great Lakes Trade Exposition</a> on “Containers and Small-space Gardening” on Tuesday, Jan. 6.<br />• The <a href="http://summit.osu.edu/master_gardener">Summit County Master Gardeners of Ohio</a> on “Containers and Small-space Gardening” on Saturday, Jan. 24, and Sunday, Jan. 25.<br />• <a href="http://www.ygpshow.com/">Yard, Garden and Patio Show</a> on “New Perennials from Around the World” on Friday, Feb. 27.<br />• 2009 <a href="http://www.begonias.org/">American Begonia Society Convention</a>: the West Palm Beach Branch on “California Dreamin’ (Plant Discoveries in California’s Hot Spots) on Thursday, April 30.<br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRz70Y0-Zl69-5QN9qMacIoUQpsBYz0BfSXobaAetT3YnxkpUFKx3OswORxvGJaHBR14eiorvv_AeTMmZjcbq3Gx0A1JvuNBFoTWE1A1P4A9pdpGcHogii3et6G92hyphenhyphen6aUY_f9/s1600-h/Begonia+%27Madame+Queen%27+-+Image+1.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 268px; height: 180px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRz70Y0-Zl69-5QN9qMacIoUQpsBYz0BfSXobaAetT3YnxkpUFKx3OswORxvGJaHBR14eiorvv_AeTMmZjcbq3Gx0A1JvuNBFoTWE1A1P4A9pdpGcHogii3et6G92hyphenhyphen6aUY_f9/s320/Begonia+%27Madame+Queen%27+-+Image+1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5268615230309889618" border="0" /></a>More about <a href="http://www.blogger.com/www.terranovanurseries.com">Terra Nova Nurseries</a>:<br />Terra Nova Nurseries is a world leader in plant breeding and genetics which has introduced over 460 captivating, robust and innovative varieties of annuals and perennials for the landscape and garden to the marketplace. The Terra Nova Nurseries team produces dozens of hardy new selections each year through expert flower breeding and laboratory research. These varieties are then propagated through tissue culture in state-of-the-art labs to make large quantities of healthy plants available to home gardeners, independent garden centers, growers, and landscape professionals throughout the world.<br /><br />~LeslieLeslie Kirkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08709744875570352252noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34078088.post-2854667215250760432008-11-14T11:52:00.000-08:002008-11-14T12:02:54.803-08:00STEPABLES Selects Independent Garden Center Contest Winners<meta name="Generator" content="Microsoft Word 11"><meta name="Originator" content="Microsoft Word 11"><link rel="File-List" href="file:///C:%5CDOCUME%7E1%5CLKirk%5CLOCALS%7E1%5CTemp%5Cmsohtml1%5C01%5Cclip_filelist.xml"><o:smarttagtype namespaceuri="urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:smarttags" name="PlaceType"></o:smarttagtype><o:smarttagtype namespaceuri="urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:smarttags" name="place"></o:smarttagtype><o:smarttagtype namespaceuri="urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:smarttags" name="State"></o:smarttagtype><o:smarttagtype namespaceuri="urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:smarttags" name="City"></o:smarttagtype><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:worddocument> <w:view>Normal</w:View> <w:zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:punctuationkerning/> <w:validateagainstschemas/> <w:saveifxmlinvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid> <w:ignoremixedcontent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent> <w:alwaysshowplaceholdertext>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText> <w:compatibility> <w:breakwrappedtables/> <w:snaptogridincell/> <w:wraptextwithpunct/> <w:useasianbreakrules/> <w:dontgrowautofit/> </w:Compatibility> <w:browserlevel>MicrosoftInternetExplorer4</w:BrowserLevel> </w:WordDocument> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:latentstyles deflockedstate="false" latentstylecount="156"> </w:LatentStyles> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if !mso]><object classid="clsid:38481807-CA0E-42D2-BF39-B33AF135CC4D" id="ieooui"></object> <style> st1\:*{behavior:url(#ieooui) } </style> <![endif]--><style> <!-- /* Style Definitions */ p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal {mso-style-parent:""; margin:0in; margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:12.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman";} a:link, span.MsoHyperlink {color:blue; text-decoration:underline; text-underline:single;} a:visited, span.MsoHyperlinkFollowed {color:purple; text-decoration:underline; text-underline:single;} @page Section1 {size:8.5in 11.0in; margin:1.0in 1.25in 1.0in 1.25in; mso-header-margin:.5in; mso-footer-margin:.5in; mso-paper-source:0;} div.Section1 {page:Section1;} --> </style><!--[if gte mso 10]> <style> /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:10.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-ansi-language:#0400; mso-fareast-language:#0400; mso-bidi-language:#0400;} </style> <![endif]--> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-family:Arial;">Drum-roll please…</span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal">
<br /><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-family:Arial;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-family:Arial;"><o:p> </o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-family:Arial;"><a href="http://www.stepables.com/">STEPABLES</a> officially announced the names of three independent garden centers that received first place honors in respective plant display categories as part of the second annual “We’ve Got Sole” contest. The winners include <a href="http://www.deneweths.com/">Deneweth’s <st1:place st="on"><st1:placetype st="on">Garden</st1:placetype> <st1:placetype st="on">Center</st1:placetype></st1:place></a>, <a href="http://www.heightsflowers.com/">Heights Flowers</a> and <a href="http://www.natorp.com/">Natorp’s Mason Garden Store</a>. </span></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRoR_UtwWEsECcuMI5PVitcdulCrilhZr9L_7FsUUw68qquFmWWt_YsAM_pktVwaJG1CAuiSJMw1lrKfkVQgZJWQCaroUHD3mTInnKlPsuQF0_5u4rCQOaRrkttxUl-9DhqihD/s1600-h/Best+Definitive+Display+-+Photo+2.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRoR_UtwWEsECcuMI5PVitcdulCrilhZr9L_7FsUUw68qquFmWWt_YsAM_pktVwaJG1CAuiSJMw1lrKfkVQgZJWQCaroUHD3mTInnKlPsuQF0_5u4rCQOaRrkttxUl-9DhqihD/s200/Best+Definitive+Display+-+Photo+2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5268605618382987218" border="0" /></a></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-family:Arial;"><o:p> </o:p></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-family:Arial;"><o:p>
<br /></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-family:Arial;"><a href="http://www.deneweths.com/">Deneweth’s Garden Center</a> of Macomb, MI, won the first place prize for “Best Definitive Display.” As a result, a check for $5,000 was presented to the charity of their choice, Komen Detroit Race for the Cure, on Aug. 5, 2008. The display exemplified their imagination, showing eye-catching ways of presenting Good For Your Sole® point-of-purchase materials on traditional tables and other platforms. </span></span><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-family:Arial;">The winning display also integrated various landscape applications of STEPABLES plants throughout the designated area, including between pavers and on green roofs. In addition, the Deneweth’s <st1:place st="on"><st1:placetype st="on">Garden</st1:placetype> <st1:placetype st="on">Center</st1:placetype></st1:place> team was inspired by the contest to raise an extra $1,100 on their own for Komen Detroit Race for the Cure.<o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-family:Arial;"><o:p> </o:p></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-aUmoMGLBRlRw39gGDja2avZ30SU8bAWVi_uYyDzVVxlQVEnwpqut6LNpr_4rgcYIOSwkXcwiPAUy_p5x96eSGxfcruDmclHgnKXSgqD0dzq7vs6PgFUnZ0VxIWhlBCmZuCx3/s1600-h/Best+Use+of+Space+Display+-+Photo+3.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 232px; height: 175px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-aUmoMGLBRlRw39gGDja2avZ30SU8bAWVi_uYyDzVVxlQVEnwpqut6LNpr_4rgcYIOSwkXcwiPAUy_p5x96eSGxfcruDmclHgnKXSgqD0dzq7vs6PgFUnZ0VxIWhlBCmZuCx3/s320/Best+Use+of+Space+Display+-+Photo+3.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5268605185117703570" border="0" /></a></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-family:Arial;"><a href="http://www.heightsflowers.com/">Heights Flowers</a> of Peoria, IL, came in first for “Best Use of Space,” maximizing the use of designated floor and shelf space to boost sales. Heights Flowers prioritized information sharing in their design, providing a working computer within the display for customers to visit the STEPABLES Web site to utilize the online tools for selecting the right plants for their specific lawns and gardens. <o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-family:Arial;"><o:p> </o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-family:Arial;"><a href="http://www.natorp.com/">
<br /></a></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-family:Arial;"><a href="http://www.natorp.com/">Natorp’s Mason Garden Store</a> in <st1:place st="on"><st1:city st="on">Mason</st1:city>, <st1:state st="on">OH</st1:state></st1:place>, triumphed in the category of “Best STEPscapes Display,” which utilized STEPABLES plants in a multi-tiered landscape application to show customers the many ways creeping perennials can be used as solution plants. The design showed customers how to plant between stepping stones, create a lush seating area, use creeping perennials in beds and borders, replace turf with a creative low-growing plant pattern, and build a rock garden featuring STEPABLES. </span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3zWRdhi-1wQBzHCc5q4AYJmzb8JaADiLPaAbfjD_0V8c06mxjukGv0utSxZwQEykqtbpm3JQx8ghPBup5QWsNG4rBc6OYkqLsrmksGTiTNul0anInqCEWw5tvoQ17DLgF-Dh7/s1600-h/Best+Stepscape+Display+-+Photo+2.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 134px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3zWRdhi-1wQBzHCc5q4AYJmzb8JaADiLPaAbfjD_0V8c06mxjukGv0utSxZwQEykqtbpm3JQx8ghPBup5QWsNG4rBc6OYkqLsrmksGTiTNul0anInqCEWw5tvoQ17DLgF-Dh7/s200/Best+Stepscape+Display+-+Photo+2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5268605755556795794" border="0" /></a></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-family:Arial;"><o:p> </o:p></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-family:Arial;"><o:p>
<br /></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-family:Arial;">The “We’ve Got Sole” contest is offered annually to independent garden centers as a fun way to develop plant displays that can boost sales and brand recognition while simultaneously giving back to the communities in which they are located. Each winning store was awarded a STEPPY Award as well as gift cards for a company party. To see photos of these displays, information on the garden centers and chosen charities, and contest details, visit <a href="http://www.stepables.com/garden-center-contest.asp">http://www.stepables.com/garden-center-contest.asp</a>. <o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-family:Arial;"><span style=""> </span></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:85%;">
<br /></span><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-family:Arial;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:11;" ><span style="font-size:85%;">Congratulations to you all!!</span>
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<br /></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:85%;">
<br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:85%;">~Leslie</span>
<br /><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:11;" ><o:p></o:p></span></p> Leslie Kirkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08709744875570352252noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34078088.post-972052671662095942008-04-22T11:36:00.000-07:002008-12-09T00:40:14.803-08:00STEPABLES® Launches New Media Marketing Campaign<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMhSEZcTA33mho7gTvSGpeY8LWuWw4fLYsk-rFdswnrLxim6FOwc_kSJ3JYRKC9Eqehl7-2QcNNS7dQDkxJbyvqr5keRn8HxiuCceGO1OMPgw-2-v05nrKiC9_AVBz9u_4BHbW/s1600-h/homepage.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 288px; height: 204px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMhSEZcTA33mho7gTvSGpeY8LWuWw4fLYsk-rFdswnrLxim6FOwc_kSJ3JYRKC9Eqehl7-2QcNNS7dQDkxJbyvqr5keRn8HxiuCceGO1OMPgw-2-v05nrKiC9_AVBz9u_4BHbW/s320/homepage.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5192144563765962722" border="0" /></a><br /><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >Under A Foot Plant Company™ and its national plant brand of creeping perennials, STEPABLES®, announced today the launch of an innovative marketing campaign designed to utilize new media, such as an interactive <a style="color: rgb(0, 153, 0);" href="http://www.stepables.com/">Web site</a> design, <a style="color: rgb(0, 153, 0);" href="http://www.stepables.com/stepables_videos.asp#1">instructional videos</a> and <a style="color: rgb(0, 153, 0);" href="http://www.stepables.com/blogs/fran/">informative blogs</a>, to build brand recognition among its growers, garden centers and consumers.<o:p></o:p></span> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >As an award-winning marketing leader in the horticulture industry, STEPABLES® has designed the Web site to serve as the core of the new media campaign. The site now includes:<o:p></o:p></span></p> <ul style="margin-top: 0in;" type="disc"><li class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >Hundreds of new images to show consumers and landscapers the most creative ways to use STEPABLES<o:p></o:p></span></li><li class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >Multiple forums for open discussion about anything the site visitors would like to discuss<o:p></o:p></span></li><li class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >Several instructional, how-to videos<o:p></o:p></span></li><li class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >A new blog written by <span style=""> </span>Frances Hopkins, founder and president of Under A Foot Plant Company™ <span style=""> </span><o:p></o:p></span></li><li class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >“Meet Fran” section that personalized the brand with a family behind the name<o:p></o:p></span></li><li class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >New media center with all current press releases<o:p></o:p></span></li><li class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >A help desk available to consumers, garden centers and landscapers <o:p></o:p></span></li><li class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >Design center with printable garden layouts<o:p></o:p></span></li><li class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >A STEPABLES® Fun Club to receive discounts on plants and merchandise<o:p></o:p></span></li></ul> <p class="MsoNormal"> </p><p class="MsoNormal"> </p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:11;" ><span style="font-size:85%;">“I wanted to create a marketing campaign that reflected my enthusiasm for gardening and hopefully inspire those visiting the STEPABLES® site to try something new,” said Frances Hopkins, founder and president of Under A Foot Plant Company™. “I look forward to interacting more personally with anyone who visits <a style="color: rgb(0, 153, 0);" href="http://www.stepables.com/">www.stepables.com</a>.”</span><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:85%;"><st1:city st="on"><st1:place st="on"><span style="font-family:Arial;">Hopkins</span></st1:place></st1:city></span><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" > will be updating her <a style="color: rgb(0, 153, 0);" href="http://www.stepables.com/blogs/fran/">blog </a>regula</span><a href="javascript:void(0)" tabindex="10" onclick="return false;"><span></span></a><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >rly as a new medium for communicating upcoming STEPABLES® news and responding to commonly asked questions from homeowners and landscapers. The site also has a new guest blog where horticulturalists and experts are invited to offer advice and knowledge about their experiences with STEPABLES® plants. <o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >Brief instructional <a href="http://www.stepables.com/stepables_videos.asp#1"><span style="color: rgb(0, 153, 0);">videos</span> </a>are featured on the new STEPABLES® site for a quick look at how STEPABLES® can spruce up any landscape. In less than five minutes apiece, these four videos show imaginative possibilities with the STEPABLES® line such as learning the basics of container gardening, planting combination sensations with flower bulbs, creating accents with steps and benches, and replacing a lawn with these low-maintenance plants. <st1:place st="on"><st1:city st="on">Hopkins</st1:city></st1:place> produced and starred in each of the videos to further personify the brand and educate her audience with these how-to STEPABLES® tips. Take a look at one of the videos, posted below, to see how you can plant </span><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >STEPABLES® around benches or between steps.</span><span style="font-size:85%;"><br /></span><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" ><br /></span><span style="font-size:85%;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dzM_m42LpEJzoJ2WXr6ok6xrLh5cnUYtdilWnTTmcEH7b1_ubSajzr8-ENnOz4RE7FLCSUkffxhVeQ' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></span><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" ><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >Click on the links and video to see how this plant brand plans to remain at the forefront of marketing with the newest technologies in communication!<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:11;" ><span style="font-size:85%;"><o:p> </o:p>~Leslie</span><o:p></o:p></span></p>Leslie Kirkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08709744875570352252noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34078088.post-11019595155380690522008-04-14T13:02:00.000-07:002008-12-09T00:40:14.965-08:00All Great Things Come in Threes<span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >Exciting News from Ball Horticultural Company!<br /></span><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" ><br />1.</span><span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" > </span><!--[if !supportLists]--><!--[endif]--><span style="color: rgb(51, 204, 255);font-size:85%;" ><a href="http://www.ballhort.com/"><b style=""><span style="font-family:Arial;">Ball Horticultural Company</span></b></a></span><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" ><span style="color: rgb(51, 102, 255);"> </span><b style="">announces the launch of its com</b></span><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" ><b style="">pletely redesigned Web site!</b></span><br /><p style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);" class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >The new site is organized and easy to navigate with <b style=""><i style=""><u>one</u></i></b> convenient location for growers, retailers, landscapers and home gardeners to find out about plants, products and programs available from Ball.</span></p><p style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);" class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >Highlights of the new ballhort.com include a <a style="color: rgb(102, 204, 204);" href="http://www.ballhort.com/Nursery/AddYourBusiness.aspx"><b style="">database</b></a> where growers and retailers can list their businesses, a <a style="color: rgb(102, 204, 204);" href="http://knowledge.ballhort.com/"><b style="">commonly asked questions</b></a><span style="color: rgb(102, 204, 204);"> </span>page for all audience types, and a section for <a style="color: rgb(102, 204, 204);" href="http://www.ballhort.com/Growers/_sustainable.aspx"><b style="">sustainable solutions</b></a> from Ball. Also, site visitors can enjoy all the best features of the previous site including downloadable PDFs with plant culture information and lists of Ball Exclusives. Take a look!</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjY3b1E-4AHuYYXXVYol9jag5TxRU2QOcdzahEhrktL9n1D60FomWAZeXxnghW7it7aH464wy5bCgX_Po9veDf4JdYq2Iy-bfoQr15xwcQXQ7glDiJ6MgIfgKbvF7kXZ9OYVU12/s1600-h/Welcome+to+BallHorticultural.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjY3b1E-4AHuYYXXVYol9jag5TxRU2QOcdzahEhrktL9n1D60FomWAZeXxnghW7it7aH464wy5bCgX_Po9veDf4JdYq2Iy-bfoQr15xwcQXQ7glDiJ6MgIfgKbvF7kXZ9OYVU12/s320/Welcome+to+BallHorticultural.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5189196821710586850" border="0" /></a></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.25in; text-indent: -0.25in; vertical-align: middle;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" ><span style="">2. </span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);font-size:85%;" ><a style="color: rgb(102, 204, 204);" href="http://www.ballhort.com/"><b style=""><span style="font-family:Arial;">Ball Horticultural Company</span></b></a><b style=""><span style="font-family:Arial;"> </span></b></span><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" ><b style="">and <a style="color: rgb(102, 204, 204);" href="http://www.alliance47.eu/">French firm <st1:place st="on"><st1:city st="on">Alliance</st1:city></st1:place> 47</a> </b><b style="">announce a joint venture to develop and commercialize new bio-packaging products for the horticulture industry.</b><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="vertical-align: middle; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >Under a long-term agreement, Ball Horticultural Company has exclusive worldwide rights to technology that will apply to an extensive range of packaging products including pots, tags, point-of-purchase materials and more. <o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="vertical-align: middle; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >Ball Innovations will oversee the research and product development work related to the partnership. “Our goal is for Ball to continue to lead the industry in providing practical, sustainable solutions for greenhouse growers,” says Bill Doeckel, General Manager of Ball Innovations. “By working with <st1:city st="on"><st1:place st="on">Alliance</st1:place></st1:city> 47 to greatly expand the range of sustainable packaging products, we h</span><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >ope to dramatically improve the sustainable options for our industry.”<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="vertical-align: middle; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >Packaging products made from the new substrates will be commercially available to horticulture industry professionals in Europe and <st1:place st="on">North America</st1:place> beginning in 2008.<br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.25in; text-indent: -0.25in; vertical-align: middle; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-family:Arial;">3.</span><b style=""><span style="font-family:Arial;"> In 2008, </span></b></span><span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(102, 204, 204);font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" ><a href="http://www.ballhort.com/Gardeners/_Wave.aspx">Wave® petunias </a></span><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" ><b style="">will celebrate their 10th year on television with a national advertising campaign that is bigger, bolder and better than ever before!</b> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="vertical-align: middle; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5lhYM9v_55k63bxM3Lc20tGXUZyhPBDhPSnahcnJr91iw9pfXvYTmwzli3iysK9VqioOgl_bCRMlBWZ8bKf69VajtYu2NBxRtPWEDqG0ONzASvxmmexsl6h548FBy2MKE4HrN/s1600-h/SWPurple2.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 197px; height: 294px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5lhYM9v_55k63bxM3Lc20tGXUZyhPBDhPSnahcnJr91iw9pfXvYTmwzli3iysK9VqioOgl_bCRMlBWZ8bKf69VajtYu2NBxRtPWEDqG0ONzASvxmmexsl6h548FBy2MKE4HrN/s320/SWPurple2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5189197053638820850" border="0" /></a><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >A new commercial promoting Wave petunias in Pink Packaging will air <b style=""><i style="">more than 700 times</i></b><i style=""> </i>on <b style=""><i style="">25 national cable channels</i></b> including <a style="color: rgb(102, 204, 204);" href="http://www.hgtv.com/"><b style="">HGTV</b></a> and <a style="color: rgb(102, 204, 204);" href="http://www.diynetwork.com/"><b style="">DIY</b></a><span style="color: rgb(102, 204, 204);"> </span>as well as other lifestyle-oriented networks like E!, Lifetime, A&E, Food Network and more. The comprehensive marketing experience for Wave petunias will also include elements of print advertising, direct mail, events, online communications, viral marketing and public relations.<o:p><br /></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="vertical-align: middle; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >“This commercial is designed to get attention and appeal to newer, younger gardeners with an edgy, fun style,” says Diane Hund, Director of Marketing at Ball. “This year’s entire Wave marketing campaign is unlike anything our industry has ever seen. We’re fully committed to helping growers and retailers by marketing Wave petunias to consumers in fresh and creative ways, and the unique approach and broader reach of this year’s television advertising plan does just that.”<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="vertical-align: middle; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >The theme of the commercial is “Accept the Gardener in You,” and will air March 31 through June 11 in the <st1:country-region st="on">U.S.</st1:country-region> and <st1:country-region st="on"><st1:place st="on">Canada</st1:place></st1:country-region><i style="">.</i>For a behind-the-scenes look at the integrated Wave marketing plan, check out the <a style="color: rgb(102, 204, 204);" href="http://www.blogger.com/www.youtube.com/watch?v=s8-U1ItGcZc"><b style="">Wave video</b></a> posted on YouTube.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="vertical-align: middle; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"> </p><p class="MsoNormal" style="vertical-align: middle; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >~Leslie</span></p>Leslie Kirkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08709744875570352252noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34078088.post-50340303502702773352008-03-05T11:44:00.000-08:002008-12-09T00:40:15.510-08:00Dan Heims, president of Terra Nova Nurseries, to speak at Powell's Books in Portland, Ore. as part of "Get Gardening" series<span style="font-size:85%;"> <a style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_NexQ5trxVCQ/R88CMtqBrUI/AAAAAAAAAK0/qcRf6aoLUcs/s1600-h/Dan+-+5.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_NexQ5trxVCQ/R88CMtqBrUI/AAAAAAAAAK0/qcRf6aoLUcs/s200/Dan+-+5.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5174356914309541186" border="0" /></a></span><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);font-size:85%;" ><span style="color: rgb(255, 102, 0);font-family:Arial;" ><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Dan Heims, president of <a href="http://www.terranovanurseries.com/">Terra Nova Nurseries</a> in Canby, Ore., will be speaking at <a href="http://www.powells.com/">Powell's Books</a> at Cedar Hills Crossing in Portland on March 18, 2008 as part of the "Get Gardening" series. Heims will speak about and present information on varieties of Heuchera and Heucherella featured in his recently published book, <span style="font-style: italic;">Heuchera and Heucherella, Coral Bells and Foamy Bells</span>. In the book, published by <a href="http://www.timberpress.com/?s=gg">Timber Press</a>, Heims and co-author Grahame Ware provide background on wild species of Heuchera as </span></span></span><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);font-size:85%;" ><span style="color: rgb(255, 102, 0);font-family:Arial;" ><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">well as details about how these plants have developed into the garden stars they are today. The book also features extensive plant listings of the choice selections and hybrids available commercially. It also includes practical chapters on garden care, propagation and design uses, all recommended by Heims and Ware.</span></span></span><br /><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);font-size:85%;" ><span style="color: rgb(255, 102, 0);font-family:Arial;" ><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"><br /></span></span></span><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);font-size:85%;" ><span style="color: rgb(255, 102, 0);font-family:Arial;" ><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"><span style="font-family:arial;"><a href="http://www.getgardeningpdx.com/">"Get Gardening"</a> is a joint effort by</span></span></span></span><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);font-size:85%;" ><span style="font-family:arial;"> three local Portland businesses, </span><a style="font-family: arial;" href="http://www.timberpress.com/?s=gg" title="Go to the Timber Press site">Timber Press</a><span style="font-family:arial;">, </span><a style="font-family: arial;" href="http://www.powells.com/info/places/beavertoninfo.html" title="Go to the Powell's Cedar Hills Crossing site">Powell's Books at Cedar Hills Crossing</a><span style="font-family:arial;">, and </span><a style="font-family: arial;" href="http://www.als-gardencenter.com/" title="Go to the Al's Garden Center site">Al's Garden Center</a><span style="font-family:arial;">, which have joined forces </span></span><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);font-size:85%;" ><span style="font-family:arial;">to bring garden enthusiasts an exciting program of monthly talks by some of the country's top garden writers. </span></span><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);font-family:arial;font-size:85%;" >Each presentation is followed by discussion and snacks. There are various door prizes and giveaways as well as an opportunity to talk to the authors, like Heims, meet other gardeners, and swap gardening stories and photos. There is no cost to participate in "Get Gardening".</span><p style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"> </p><span style="font-size:85%;"><a style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_NexQ5trxVCQ/R88DNdqBrWI/AAAAAAAAALE/i29Tq03t4RU/s1600-h/9780881927023ff.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 145px; height: 173px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_NexQ5trxVCQ/R88DNdqBrWI/AAAAAAAAALE/i29Tq03t4RU/s200/9780881927023ff.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5174358026706070882" border="0" /></a></span><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);font-size:85%;" ><span style="color: rgb(255, 102, 0);font-family:Arial;" ><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"><a href="http://www.timberpress.com/authors/id.cfm/1200?s=gg">For more information on Dan Heims and the "Get Gardening" event at Powell's in Portland. </a><br /><br /></span></span></span> <span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);font-size:85%;" ><span style="color: rgb(255, 102, 0);font-family:Arial;" ><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"><a href="http://www.timberpress.com/books/isbn.cfm/9780881927023/heucheras_heucherellas/heims?s=gg">Information about purchasing Dan's Book, <span style="font-style: italic;">Heucheras and Heucherellas - Coral Bells and Foamy Bells</span></a><br /><br /></span></span></span> <span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);font-size:85%;" ><span style="font-weight: bold;font-family:arial;" >More abou</span></span><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);font-size:85%;" ><span style="font-weight: bold;font-family:arial;" >t Terra Nova Nurseries:</span> </span><p style="font-family: arial; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);" class="MsoNormal"> </p><p style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);" class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >Terra Nova Nurseries is a world leader in plant breeding and genetics which has introduced over 460 captivating, robust and innovative varieties of annuals and perennials for the landscape and garden to the marketplace. The Terra Nova Nurseries team produces dozens of hardy new selections each year through expert flower breeding and laboratory research. These varieties are then propagated through tissue culture in state-of-the-art labs to make large quantities of healthy plants available to home gardeners, independent garden centers, growers, and landscape professionals throughout the world.</span></p><p style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);" class="MsoNormal">- Sally<br /><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" > <o:p></o:p></span></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34078088.post-21479553031173425852008-02-19T09:52:00.000-08:002008-12-09T00:40:15.647-08:00Novalis® Expands Network to Include New Growers of Annual Color, Perennials, Shrubs<div style="text-align: justify;"><a href="http://www.novalis.com"><span style="font-size:85%;"></span></a><span style="font-size:85%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 158px; height: 166px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_NexQ5trxVCQ/R7saGGQsuHI/AAAAAAAAAJk/Vl0mGVnYxWA/s200/Plants+that+Work%C2%AE+by+Color%E2%84%A2+-+Graphic.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5168753689399965810" border="0" /></a></span><span style="font-size:85%;"><i style=""><span style="font-family:Arial;"><o:p></o:p></span></i><i style=""><span style="font-family:Arial;">Novalis® adds seven growers to consortium for production of Plants that Work® by Color™ line, while Bailey Nurseries joins the network for production of perennial and woody ornamental programs.<br /><br /></span></i></span> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:85%;"><i style=""><span style="font-family:Arial;">Moncks Corner, S.C.</span></i></span><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >, Feb. 10, 2008 – <a href="http://www.novalis.com/">Novalis®</a>, a professional horticulture trade consortium made up of significant annual, perennial and woody ornamental growers spanning the Unit<st1:personname st="on">ed</st1:personname> States, officially announc<st1:personname st="on">ed</st1:personname> today that it has add<st1:personname st="on">ed</st1:personname> a number of new growers to its network, significantly increasing the reach and scope of its <a href="http://www.plantsthatwork.com/">Plants that Work®</a><i style=""> </i>plant brand.<o:p></o:p></span></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" ><o:p></o:p>In a broad expansion of the alliance-based network, seven growers have committed to production of bedding plant varieties as part of Novalis®’ Plants that Work® by Color™; in addition, one new grower will join nine existing ones in the production of perennials and woody ornamentals under the inclusive Plants that Work® brand.<span style=""> </span><i style=""><o:p></o:p></i></span></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" ><o:p></o:p>The seven growers who recently signed-on with the consortium to grow varieties for Novalis®’ Plants that Work® by Color™ program include: <o:p></o:p></span></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.25in; text-indent: 0in; text-align: justify;"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" ><o:p> </o:p></span><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="">o<span style=""> </span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >Armstrong Growers <o:p></o:p></span></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.25in; text-indent: 0in; text-align: justify;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="">o<span style=""> </span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >Beds & Borders, Inc. <o:p></o:p></span></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.25in; text-indent: 0in; text-align: justify;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="">o<span style=""> </span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >Carolina Nurseries, Inc.<o:p></o:p></span></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.25in; text-indent: 0in; text-align: justify;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="">o<span style=""> </span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >Peace Tree Farms<o:p></o:p></span></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.25in; text-indent: 0in; text-align: justify;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="">o<span style=""> </span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-size:85%;"><st1:place st="on"><span style="font-family:Arial;">Sunbelt</span></st1:place></span><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" > Greenhouses<o:p></o:p></span></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.25in; text-indent: 0in; text-align: justify;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="">o<span style=""> </span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >Tanasacre Nursery<o:p></o:p></span></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.25in; text-indent: 0in; text-align: justify;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="">o<span style=""> </span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >Wenke Greenhouses <o:p></o:p></span></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" ><o:p></o:p>Carolina Nurseries, one of the four founding members of the Novalis® consortium, and Armstrong Growers, an existing Novalis® network member, will continue to grow plant material for the Plants that Work® perennial and shrub-based programs but will now, additionally, grow color bedding plant varieties for the brand. <o:p></o:p></span></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" ><o:p></o:p>The Plants that Work® by Color™ program was brought into existence to provide independent retailers and professional landscapers with a fully comprehensive package of plant material and regional sourcing from a collective premium product supplier. The addition of the growers will lead to more abundant and diverse plant selections for creating and maintaining a range of landscapes in all parts of the country.<span style=""> </span><o:p></o:p></span></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" ><o:p></o:p>Furthermore, the Novalis® consortium has added <a href="http://www.baileynurseries.com/">Bailey Nurseries</a>, one of the most preeminent growers in the country, to its network whereas the nursery will grow perennial and shrub selections that are part of Plants that Work®. This new addition extends the consortium’s promise of horticultural excellence and regional product availability for independent retailers, professional landscapers, municipalities, and others.<span style=""> </span><o:p></o:p></span></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >“This is an exciting time for the Novalis® network of growers and the independent garden centers that sell Plants that Work®,” said J. Guy, manager of Novalis®. “We wholeheartedly welcome the new growers who have joined the consortium and are honored to have them in the network. With the latest addition of Bailey Nurseries and the new Plants that Work® by Color<b style="">™</b> program growers, Novalis® is moving into a new era of providing a truly all-encompassing brand of varieties for virtually anyone in need of premium plant material.”<span style=""> </span><o:p></o:p></span></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" ><o:p></o:p></span><span style="font-size:85%;"><b style=""><span style="font-family:Arial;">More about Plants that Work® by Color™<o:p></o:p></span></b></span></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >The Plants that Work® by Color™ program is the most impressive expansion to date of the overall Plants that Work® line, bringing world-class genetics to gardeners in a rainbow of color and form. In spring of 2008, retailers and homeowners will have new and unique options for year-round color, with more than 150 varieties that make spectacular beds, borders and containers. <o:p></o:p></span></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >A major goal of the Plants that Work® by Color™ program is to provide independent garden centers with a new and unique manner of merchandising with plants organized and displayed by basic groups of color, presented with custom-designed packaging, signage and retail benching. The program is backed with a strategic, in- and out-of-store brand-marketing agenda.<span style=""> </span><o:p></o:p></span></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >“We knew that by growing and distributing Plants that Work® by Color™ regionally, we could ensure retail-ready delivery and optimum garden performance in particular areas,” said Tom Kegley, marketing director of Novalis®.<span style=""> </span><o:p> </o:p></span></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >The Plants that Work® by Color™ offerings, along with hundr<st1:personname st="on">ed</st1:personname>s of other robust and branded plants from the Novalis® network, are cultivated to accentuate outdoor living, provide solutions for novice and expert gardeners, and address consumer high-demand for new collections of unparalleled variety and quality in every region of the country.</span></p><span style="font-size:85%;">- Sally<br /></span><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:85%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34078088.post-84937333786374995132008-02-18T07:20:00.000-08:002008-02-18T07:32:47.241-08:00Horticultural Identification Products Hires West Coast Sales Representative<span style="font-size:85%;"></span><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:85%;"><st1:place st="on"><st1:city st="on"><i style=""><span style="font-family:Arial;">Thomasville</span></i></st1:city><i style=""><span style="font-family:Arial;">, <st1:state st="on">NC</st1:state></span></i></st1:place></span><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" > – February 1, 2008 – <a href="http://www.hiplabels.com">Horticultural Identification Products (HIP)</a>, a customized tag and labeling products company for the horticulture industry, announced today that it has hired Bob Nichols as the company’s West Coast sales representative.</span><span style="font-size:85%;"><i style=""><span style="font-family:Arial;"><o:p><br /></o:p></span></i></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >With an extensive background in horticulture, green-goods sales and marketing, Nichols comes to HIP from Weeks Roses, where he served as a national sales manager and led a sales team of seven for the wholesale grower located in <st1:place st="on"><st1:city st="on">Upland</st1:city>, <st1:state st="on">Calif.</st1:state></st1:place><o:p><br /></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >In his new role, Nichols will bring 20 years of experience to managing all West Coast sales efforts for HIP. His responsibilities will include developing sales strategy, representing the company and its products at industry events and trade shows as well as interacting with major growers along the West Coast, from <st1:state st="on"><st1:place st="on">British Columbia</st1:place></st1:state> to the Mexican border.<o:p><br /></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >“I am thrilled to join the successful team at HIP and represent the company as well its superior horticulture marketing-solution products on the West Coast,” said Nichols. “The region is one that has always been and continues to be green-sensitive, and which has drawn considerable excitement and great interest in HIP’s products, particularly those created from environmentally sound materials.”<o:p><br /></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >The hire is in keeping with HIP’s practice of employing horticultural specialists with innovative marketing and green-goods expertise. HIP utilizes these experts, who are versed in all aspects of horticultural marketing, production and independent retail needs and strategies, to service the company’s clientele and develop customized, top-quality merchandising solutions. <span style=""></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" ><o:p></o:p>Nichols is a graduate of <st1:placename st="on">Pennsylvania</st1:placename> <st1:placetype st="on">State</st1:placetype> <st1:placetype st="on">University</st1:placetype>, where he received a bachelor’s degree in horticulture, and <span style="">Virginia</span> Polytechnic Institute and <st1:place st="on"><st1:placetype st="on">State</st1:placetype> <st1:placetype st="on"><span style="">University</span></st1:placetype></st1:place>, where he received a Master of Business Administration degree in marketing. Bob currently lives in <st1:city st="on">Rancho Cucamonga</st1:city>, <st1:state st="on">Calif.</st1:state>, one hour east of <st1:city st="on"><st1:place st="on">Los Angeles</st1:place></st1:city>.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >To learn more about HIP products please visit <a href="http://www.hiplables.com/">www.hiplables.com</a>. <o:p></o:p></span></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34078088.post-5367089572347933082007-12-14T08:54:00.000-08:002008-12-09T00:40:16.030-08:00HIP Develops New “Green” Plant Identification Tags<span style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102);font-size:85%;" ><b style=""><span style=";font-family:Arial;" >HIP Develops New “Green” Plant Identification Tags<o:p></o:p></span></b><br /></span><div style="text-align: left; color: rgb(102, 102, 102);"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" ><o:p></o:p></span><span style="font-size:85%;"><i style=""><span style=";font-family:Arial;" >Horticultural Identification Products expands offerings with newly developed, eco-friendly plant tag products.<o:p></o:p></span></i></span></div> <p style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102);" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:85%;"><i style=""><span style=";font-family:Arial;" >Nov. 1, 2007 – Thomasville, NC – </span></i></span><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >Horticultural Identification Products (HIP), a customized tag and labeling products company for the horticulture industry, announced today that it has developed two sustainable plant tag products, EcoTag and BioTag.</span><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" ><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102);" class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >EcoTag is a degradable alternative to traditional plastic plant tags. Manufactured using wind power as one energy source, EcoTag is environmentally-friendly from beginning to end with added consumer appeal during its functional life. These rigid tags retain their integrity until buried in compost or disposed of in a landfill. The buried tags disintegrate in one to five years.</span></p><div style="text-align: left; color: rgb(102, 102, 102);"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_NexQ5trxVCQ/R2K2KwwmAbI/AAAAAAAAAHg/HTKKaysTyJs/s1600-h/EcoTag+by+HIP.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_NexQ5trxVCQ/R2K2KwwmAbI/AAAAAAAAAHg/HTKKaysTyJs/s200/EcoTag+by+HIP.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5143874020414194098" border="0" /></a></div><p style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102);" class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" ><o:p></o:p></span></p><span style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102);font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >BioTag is a first-of-its-kind tag made of biodegradable plastic. The BioTag material is produced using a state-of-the-art polymer technology that relies on bio-based products, such as corn and soybeans, rather than fossil fuel-based resins. The end-product has a natural composition that is totally biodegradable. The degradation process takes approximately one year.</span><p style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102);" class="MsoNormal"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_NexQ5trxVCQ/R2K2NAwmAcI/AAAAAAAAAHo/TCue4QORBAg/s1600-h/BioTag+by+HIP.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_NexQ5trxVCQ/R2K2NAwmAcI/AAAAAAAAAHo/TCue4QORBAg/s200/BioTag+by+HIP.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5143874059068899778" border="0" /></a></p> <p style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102);" class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >HIP is at the forefront of the “green” revolution in the horticulture industry as a marketing innovator. Bob Lovejoy, president / CEO of HIP, has identified a need for environmentally-friendly packaging options and developed alternative materials for custom-designed labels.<o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102);" class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >“These environmentally-conscious horticultural tags contribute to the brand image of a horticulture company, not only enhancing the look of plant products, but also conveying a corporate commitment to environmental awareness and the conservation of natural resources,” says Lovejoy.</span><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" > <o:p></o:p></span></p> <p style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102);" class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >HIP believes its “earth-friendly” products, when combined with the innovative “green” product offerings produced by container manufacturers, provide both growers and retailers with an opportunity to satisfy consumer demands with a profitable, premium product combination.<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102);" class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >For more information about sustainable labeling products from HIP please visit <a href="http://www.hiplabels.com/">www.hiplabels.com</a>. <o:p></o:p></span></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34078088.post-91691859318550260062007-10-05T15:06:00.000-07:002008-12-09T00:40:16.163-08:00New Plants Set Outdoor Living and Gardening Lifestyle Trends<div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size:85%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_NexQ5trxVCQ/Rwa2xdzXA8I/AAAAAAAAAGo/IPh1ENPqW2I/s1600-h/IMG_4555+%2837%29.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 379px; height: 249px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_NexQ5trxVCQ/Rwa2xdzXA8I/AAAAAAAAAGo/IPh1ENPqW2I/s400/IMG_4555+%2837%29.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5117978987483038658" border="0" /></a><br /></span> </div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size:85%;"><b style=""><span style=";font-family:Arial;" >New Plants Set Outdoor Living and Gardening Lifestyle Trends<span style=""> </span></span></b><br /></span></div> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:85%;"><b style=""><i style=""><span style=";font-family:Arial;" ><o:p></o:p></span></i></b><i style=""><span style=";font-family:Arial;" >Novalis® Showcases 2008 Plants that Work® Introductions and 2007 Trend Plants at Fashion In Bloom, Sept. 19-22, 2007.<o:p></o:p></span></i></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:85%;"><i style=""><span style=";font-family:Arial;" ><o:p></o:p>September 10, 2007 – Moncks Corner, S.C. –</span></i></span><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" > Novalis®, a national consortium made up of regional nursery and greenhouse growers, will present its new 2008 plant introductions and existing core plant programs at this year’s Fashion In Bloom event, Sept. 19-22, 2007. The Conard-Pyle Company, a leading member of the Novalis® network of growers, will serve as site host. The display will feature Novalis®’ Plants that Work®, a national brand of trialed perennials and annual “color,” in an outdoor living setting that includes open-air living rooms and alfresco kitchens through alliances with Summer Classics and Viking. <o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" ><o:p></o:p>The varieties will include selections from specialized programs encompassing a series of exclusive plants only available through Novalis® and landscape solution-based plant collections.<span style=""> </span><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" ><o:p></o:p>The concept of the overall design exhibit is based upon the growing trend of homeowners juxtaposing easy-to-grow plant material and active outdoor lifestyles. While showcasing the latest artistic trends pertaining to lavish, yet practical, outdoor living spaces, Novalis® will, in tandem, present creative approaches for retail-ready plant displays to the attending independent garden center (IGC) owners and personnel.<span style=""> </span><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" ><o:p></o:p>Novalis® representatives will be present to share information about all of the 2008 plant programs and a new expansion initiative to add superior “color” growers to the network in conjunction with the latest plant program, Plants that Work® by Color™. As part of the most notable advancement of the Plants that Work® brand to date, Novalis® will bring more than 150 varieties of world-class “color” genetics to IGCs for spring 2008.<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" ><o:p></o:p>Currently, Novalis® leaders are incorporating select “color” growers with a common goal of providing proprietary breeding, diverse product selections, and controlled liner production and distribution, all of which will be available exclusively to IGCs. <o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" ><o:p></o:p>Individual interviews with Novalis® representatives are welcome, and may be pre-sch<st1:personname st="on">ed</st1:personname>ul<st1:personname st="on">ed</st1:personname> by contacting Eberly Public Relations at 866-574-2906 or seeing <st1:personname st="on">Don Eberly</st1:personname> or <st1:personname st="on">Jeff Collard</st1:personname> at the event. Post-event m<st1:personname st="on">ed</st1:personname>ia kits and interviews will also be available by calling the aforesaid number.<span style=""> </span><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" ><o:p>T</o:p>he Novalis® 2008 product and program line-up, all part of Plants that Work® with full marketing and merchandising support for IGCs, will include the following: <o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 2pt;"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" ><o:p></o:p></span><span style="font-size:85%;"><b style=""><span style=";font-family:Arial;" >Plants that Work® – Exclusives: </span></b></span><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" ><o:p></o:p></span></p> <ul style="margin-top: 0in;" type="square"><li class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 2pt;"><span style="font-size:85%;"><b style=""><i style=""><u><span style=";font-family:Arial;" >NEW:</span></u></i></b></span><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" > ‘Pink Double Knock Out’® Rose<span style=""> </span><o:p></o:p></span></li><li class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 2pt;"><span style="font-size:85%;"><b style=""><i style=""><u><span style=";font-family:Arial;" >NEW:</span></u></i></b></span><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" > The Garden Sensation™ Series – a new line of ornamental shrubs, including: Philadelphus ‘Snow White Sensation’™ and Weigela ‘Shining Sensation’™<o:p></o:p></span></li><li class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 2pt;"><span style="font-size:85%;"><b style=""><i style=""><u><span style=";font-family:Arial;" >NEW:</span></u></i></b></span><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" > Gaillardia Commotion™ Series – two new vibrant Gaillardia varieties, including: Gaillardia Commotion<sup>TM</sup> ‘Frenzy’ and Gaillardia Commotion<sup>TM</sup> ‘Tizzy’<o:p></o:p></span></li><li class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 2pt;"><span style="font-size:85%;"><b style=""><i style=""><u><span style=";font-family:Arial;" >NEW:</span></u></i></b></span><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" > Mystical<sup>TM</sup> Series – a new line of five lovely, rust-resistant Hypericum varieties, including: Hypericum ‘Mystical Red Star’<sup>TM</sup>, Hypericum ‘Mystical Orange’<sup>TM</sup>, Hypericum ‘Mystical Beauty’<sup>TM</sup>, Hypericum ‘Mystical Black’<sup> TM</sup> and Hypericum ‘Mystical Sweetheart’<sup>TM</sup></span></li><li class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 2pt;"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >Hydrangea ‘Lemon Daddy’™<span style=""> </span></span></li><li class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 2pt;"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >Hydrangea ‘Big Daddy’ <o:p></o:p></span></li><li class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 2pt;"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >Hydrangea ‘Bits of Lace’™<o:p></o:p></span></li><li class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 2pt;"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >Lonicera ‘Edmee Gold’ <o:p></o:p></span></li><li class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 2pt;"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >Hydrangea ‘Color Fantasy’® <o:p></o:p></span></li><li class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 2pt;"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >‘Empress of China’<sup>TM</sup> Dogwood <o:p></o:p></span></li><li class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 2pt;"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >Acer ‘Shirazz’<sup>TM</sup><o:p></o:p></span></li></ul> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" ><o:p> </o:p></span><span style="font-size:85%;"><b style=""><i style=""><u><span style=";font-family:Arial;" >NEW:</span></u></i></b><b style=""><i style=""><span style=";font-family:Arial;" > </span></i></b><b style=""><span style=";font-family:Arial;" >Plants that Work® in Nooks & Crannies™ </span></b></span><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >– A program with a mix of small-stature varieties for compact spaces and special applications with over 200 selections presented in convenient 8-pack carrying trays.<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" ><o:p></o:p></span><span style="font-size:85%;"><b style=""><span style=";font-family:Arial;" >Plants that Work® – Bring on the Heat™</span></b></span><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" > – This reliable, striking collection of perennials and shrubs from Plants that Work® is back for 2008. Performance-rated for thriving in the hot areas of gardens and patios, Bring on the Heat<b style="">™</b> <i style="">now encompasses</i> 40 plants. <o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" ><o:p></o:p></span><span style="font-size:85%;"><b style=""><span style=";font-family:Arial;" >Plants that Work® – In the Shade™</span></b></span><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" > – This robust and dependable collection of plants has returned with best-of-breeding offerings that have beautiful mixtures of texture and color for shade areas. The program consists of nearly 40 cutting-<st1:personname st="on">ed</st1:personname>ge shade-lovers.<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" ><o:p></o:p></span><span style="font-size:85%;"><b style=""><span style=";font-family:Arial;" >Bamboo</span></b></span><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" > – A favorite program from Novalis® Plants that Work®, seven clumping and running varieties are offered as part of this stunning collection.<span style=""> </span><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" ><o:p></o:p></span><span style="font-size:85%;"><b style=""><span style=";font-family:Arial;" >Twice as Nice™ Daylily Collection – </span></b></span><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >Novalis®’ award-winning collection of repeat-blooming Hemerocallis still remains a strong selling choice of gardeners and landscape professionals for outdoor rooms. It has been expand<st1:personname st="on">ed</st1:personname> to include two dozen daylilies in a vivid color spectrum. <o:p></o:p></span><span style="font-size:85%;"><u><span style=";font-family:Arial;" ><o:p></o:p></span></u></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:85%;"><u><span style=";font-family:Arial;" ><o:p></o:p></span></u><b style=""><span style=";font-family:Arial;" >Oriental x Trumpet Hybrid Lilies</span></b></span><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" > – This collection continues to represent a breakthrough in great garden lilies. With new colors and enhanced garden performance, Oriental x Trumpet lilies have thick latex-like petals and a soft fragrance.<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:85%;"><u><span style=";font-family:Arial;" ><o:p></o:p></span></u><b style=""><span style=";font-family:Arial;" >Evison<sup> TM</sup> / Poulsen® Garden Series Clematis</span></b></span><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" > – The series of clematis returns with free-flowering habits and large, open flowers. Working in various garden locations and offering USDA Zone 4 hardiness, these clematis varieties grow well in conjunction with shrubs and other climbers, or as container plants on the patio.<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" ><o:p></o:p></span><span style="font-size:85%;"><b style=""><i style=""><u><span style=";font-family:Arial;" >NEW:</span></u></i></b><b style=""><span style=";font-family:Arial;" > Plants that Work® by Color™</span></b></span><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" > – The most impressive expansion to date of the Plants that Work® line, brings world-class genetics to gardeners in a rainbow of color and form. In spring of 2008, retailers and homeowners will have new and unique options for year-round “color,” with more than 150 varieties that make spectacular beds, borders and containers. <o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" ><o:p></o:p>These offerings, along with hundr<st1:personname st="on">ed</st1:personname>s of other robust and branded plants from the Novalis® network, are cultivated to accentuate outdoor living, provide solutions for novice and expert gardeners, and address consumer high-demand for new collections of unparalleled variety and quality in every region of the country.<o:p><br /></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >In an effort to maintain its mission of offering consumers a complete outdoor “lifestyle,” Novalis® is continuing to form alliances with outdoor product companies like Summer Classics, creator of high-end outdoor furniture, and Viking, producer of premium outdoor kitchen appliances. Products manufactured by Summer Classics and Viking have been incorporated into the Novalis® trade show and event design, which has been awarded “Best of Show” honors at two recent industry events, the Ohio Floriculture Association and Southern Nursery Association trade shows, and will be featured at this year’s Fashion In Bloom event.</span></p>- Sally<br /><p class="MsoNormal" style=""></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34078088.post-41858818989386058552007-10-05T14:59:00.000-07:002008-12-09T00:40:16.316-08:00Garden Splendor® Announces New Showcase Plants for 2008<span style="font-size:85%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_NexQ5trxVCQ/Rwa0mNzXA7I/AAAAAAAAAGg/86Wsjq4fBQk/s1600-h/DSCF1635.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 224px; height: 168px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_NexQ5trxVCQ/Rwa0mNzXA7I/AAAAAAAAAGg/86Wsjq4fBQk/s320/DSCF1635.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5117976595186254770" border="0" /></a></span><span style="font-size:85%;"><b style=""><span style="font-family:Arial;">Garden Splendor® Announces New Showcase Plants for 2008<o:p></o:p></span></b></span> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:85%;"><i style=""><span style="font-family:Arial;">Garden Splendor</span></i><span style="font-family:Arial;">®<i style=""> by Overdevest Nurseries Introduces 2008 Showcase Plants at Fashion In Bloom, Sept. 19-22, 2007.<o:p></o:p></i></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:85%;"><st1:place st="on"><st1:city st="on"><i style=""><span style="font-family:Arial;">BRIDGETON</span></i></st1:city><i style=""><span style="font-family:Arial;">, <st1:state st="on">N.J.</st1:state></span></i></st1:place><i style=""><span style="font-family:Arial;"> </span></i><span style="font-family:Arial;">– <i style="">Sept. 1, 2007 – </i>The Garden Splendor® brand by Overdevest Nurseries will present its new 2008 Showcase Plants at this year’s Fashion In Bloom event, held Sept.19-22, 2007. The Garden Splendor® plant selections will be on display at the Homestead Growers site in <st1:place st="on"><st1:city st="on">Davidsonville</st1:city>, <st1:state st="on">MD.</st1:state></st1:place></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-family:Arial;">Overdevest Nurseries / Garden Splendor® management will be present and on-site to share information about the brand and new additions to the product line in person and in the form of a take-home m<st1:personname st="on">e</st1:personname>ia kit. The kit will include an Associat<st1:personname st="on">e </st1:personname>Press-ready Frequently Asked Questions page regarding the Garden Splendor® brand, a sample Remember Me® plant identification marker, detailed plant profiles, and high-resolution close-up and landscape application images.<span style=""> </span><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-family:Arial;">“We look forward to sharing the new 2008 Garden Splendor® Showcase selections with the independent garden center community at this year’s Fashion In Bloom event,” said Ed Overdevest, president of Overdevest Nurseries / Garden Splendor®. “The plant material on display has been chosen and incorporated into the product line for its quality, innovation and reliability, which represent the Garden Splendor® concept of outstanding genetic qualities with a proven record of performance under various garden conditions.”<o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-family:Arial;">Individual interviews with Overdevest and David Wilson, director of marketing for Garden Splendor®, are welcome, and may be pre-sch<st1:personname st="on">ed</st1:personname>ul<st1:personname st="on">ed</st1:personname> by contacting Eberly Public Relations at 866-574-2906 or seeing Sally Credille at the event.</span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-family:Arial;"> Post-event m<st1:personname st="on">ed</st1:personname>ia kits and interviews will also be available by calling the aforesaid number.<span style=""> </span><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:85%;"><b style=""><span style="font-family:Arial;">The new Garden Splendor® 2008 Showcase Plants will include the following: <o:p></o:p></span></b></span></p> <ul style="margin-top: 0in;" type="square"><li class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-family:Arial;">Clematis ‘Daniel Deronda’<o:p></o:p></span></span></li><li class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-family:Arial;">Coreopsis ‘Pinwheel’<o:p></o:p></span></span></li><li class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-family:Arial;">Echinacea ‘Pink Double Delight’<o:p></o:p></span></span></li><li class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-family:Arial;">Geum ‘Mango Lassi’<o:p></o:p></span></span></li><li class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-family:Arial;">Hakonechloa ‘All Gold’<o:p></o:p></span></span></li><li class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-family:Arial;">Heuchera ‘Peach Flambe’<o:p></o:p></span></span></li><li class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-family:Arial;">Mukdenia ‘Crimson Fans’<o:p></o:p></span></span></li><li class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-family:Arial;">Silene ‘Rolley’s Favourite’<o:p></o:p></span></span></li><li class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-family:Arial;">Veronica prostrate ‘Goldwell’<o:p></o:p></span></span></li></ul> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-family:Arial;">Garden Splendor® will be incorporating components of its award-winning PANTS trade show booth design at the <st1:place st="on"><st1:city st="on">Homestead</st1:city></st1:place> site to display its new 2008 Showcase Plants. <o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-family:Arial;"><o:p></o:p> </span><st1:place st="on"><st1:city st="on"><span style="font-family:Arial;">Wilson</span></st1:city></st1:place><span style="font-family:Arial;"> developed the display to showcase the high level of quality and consistency that the Garden Splendor® plant products possess. By displaying them individually and elevating them on “tree shelves,” the plants are raised to eye-level and above, allowing visitors to view the products at a glance. The display also reserves floor space, which is valuable in smaller garden centers where square footage is at a premium.<span style="color:navy;"> </span>By adding inventive and low-cost display methods like these to showcase plant material, the retailer can achieve premium prices and higher profit margins. <o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoPlainText"><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-family:arial;">Ultimately, the display is indicative of Overdevest Nurseries’ innovative and resourceful approach to marketing, and demonstrates how the Garden Splendor® program is based on creative yet realistic and practical objectives for retailers. </span><o:p></o:p></span></p> <span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-family:Arial;">Independent garden center managers / owners, landscapers, and growers may contact Overdevest Nurseries / Garden Splendor® for additional information by calling 1-888-842-6567<span style="color:black;">or logging onto the web at <a href="http://www.gardensplendor.com/">www.gardensplendor.com</a>. Members of the media and garden writers may seek supplemental information and interviews by contacting Eberly Public Relations at 1-866-574-2906.<span style=""><br /><br />- Sally<br /></span></span><o:p></o:p></span></span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0