Rodent tales: Misty Goodroad

Misty Goodroad

With three decades of industry experience, Misty Goodroad has seen her share of rodents over the years. Not only is she president of Delcon Termite and Pest Control, with a dozen employees offering residential and commercial services, she’s also president of the Nevada Pest Management Association, overseeing both an association magazine and its annual expo and conference.

Q: What’s the largest rodent infestation you’ve battled, and how did you win?

GOODROAD: We had a food processing plant with thousands of roof rats (Rattus rattus). The facility was very old and had too many areas to rodent-proof in a cost-effective manner, so we had to get creative.

We inspected thoroughly, to ensure we knew the worst nesting areas as well as their entry points. This allowed us to move systematically through the facility and bill the client over time. It also allowed the account to budget for exclusion, since we were breaking it into sections.

In addition, we applied a bio-repellent gel to areas in which we knew they would come in contact. Rats are thigmotactic in nature — they like to run next to a structure, constantly touching on at least two sides and preferably three. Painting the gel on baseboards and corners was very effective.

As sightings were reported, our technicians applied the gel in these areas, and those sightings ceased immediately in every case. The facility reported no more issues, and our bait stations and other monitors verified no activity. Rats communicate with other rats, and it wasn’t long before the facility had no sightings at all. We caught around 1,500 rats total over several months, but we estimate that many, many more were moved out of the structure using the gel in key areas.

Q: Can you recall the single smartest rodent you’ve run into, and how, in the end, you ensured you got the best of it, and not the other way around?

GOODROAD: We’ve had many interesting rodent infestations over the years, but one that stands out was at a large pet store chain. There were lax procedures for handling the rats that were sold — as well as employees setting the rodents free in the store. This led to a massive infestation throughout the store, including in the overhead insulation.

We caught hundreds of rats via trapping, and the store had to spend thousands of dollars removing the insulation. After several weeks, we were down to one alpha. We could not catch the sly fella until we borrowed several females and placed some unset traps in a tank with them for the night. We set the traps the next day — with no pre-baiting — and caught him in one night.
 

GOODROAD’S RODENT CONTROL TIPS

DO:

• Inspect everything. Especially up high, in the case of rats. Setting traps without knowing why the rodents are there or where they are nesting or entering is a sure-fire way to fail. I’ve seen technicians set traps just inside attic entries when the rats are coming and going through a broken dormer vent; the rats will never encounter those traps. The vent must be fixed, and rats only will be trappable from within that dormer space.
• Go big or go home. Always pre-bait large infestations, and always set more than enough traps. The No. 1 reason why rodent trapping services fail is because not enough traps are placed from the start. Also, trap first, clean up after. Rats are neophobic and don’t like new things or changes in their environment, so disturb as little as possible when you begin trapping.
• Finish the job. We make sure we have at least two follow-up visits without activity for smaller infestations, and four visits with no activity for large commercial infestations.

DON’T:

• Don’t set traps without a thorough inspection. Focus on finding at least one nesting area and an entry point. You must know where they’re hanging out and their points of entry to succeed.
• Don’t just set and forget for four weeks. Communicate with facility staffers consistently to gather sighting information, as well as to let them know what to expect and what the process is like.
• Don’t leave droppings after the infestation has been cleared. Vacuuming up droppings not only shows professionalism, but it also allows for effective monitoring against future infestations.

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Sacramento CA

Pestmaster Services adds six franchise locations

Chicago, Ill.-based Pestmaster Services franchisee Marvin Jones, left, shakes hands with company Owner Jeff Van Diepen. PHOTO: PESTMASTER SERVICES

Pestmaster Services, based in Reno, Nev., has opened six new franchise locations. The national franchisor is a dominant player in the governmental contracts sector for pest control.

The new locations and franchise owners include:

• Santa Fe, N.M. — Steve Race & Kat Cartwright
• Worth, Texas — Bobby Lackey
• San Antonio, Texas — Tom Nelson & Alain Bernik
• Philadelphia, Pa. — Ken Large
• Pocono, Pa. — Tony Cuiffo
• Chicago, Ill. — Marvin Jones

Philadelphia, Pa.-based Pestmaster Services franchisee Ken Large, right, shakes hands with company Owner Jeff Van Diepen. PHOTO: PESTMASTER SERVICES

As their expansion continues, the additional six locations brings Pestmaster up to 42 franchises across 17 states, including Washington, D.C. The new locations in New Mexico and Illinois serve as the first in each state. The company expanded into the international market with a location in the Republic of Lebanon.

The company was founded in 1979 by Jeff Van Diepen, ACE, and originally based in Bishop, Calif. The franchisor serves a blend of commercial, residential and government clients. Van Diepen has been licensed in 15 states and earned his MBA from Malibu, Calif-based Pepperdine University.

According to the federal procurement data system, Pestmaster Services is the No. 1 Small Business Enterprise in the United States for providing pest control services to the federal government, under NAICS code 561710. Pestmaster is one of 44 companies who have been able to navigate themselves into a contract with the federal government’s General Services Administration’s multiple award system. Pestmaster’s contracts procurement team has awarded more than $47 million to its franchise network in the past 36 months.

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Sacramento CA

Smithereen Pest Management ends 2019 with acquisition

LOGO: SMITHEREEN PEST MANAGEMENT

Smithereen Pest Management Services, headquartered in Niles, Ill., acquired Service Termite & Pest Control.

The company completed the acquisition at the end of 2019, which expands Smithereen’s service areas. Service Termite & Pest Control covered Danville and Champaign-Urbana, Ill., and Crawfordsville, Ind.

“We already provide exceptional service to customers in seven different states, and we’re proud to be able to expand into serving Champaign-Urbana, Danville and Crawfordsville,” said Scott Seifert, Smithereen’s director of sales and marketing. “We are confident that customers will be pleased with the merger of the same great service they’ve known for years, and the knowledge and expertise of our fourth-generation-owned company.”

Siefert and Andy McCormack from Smithereen worked with Owners Linda and Brad Pollert during the transaction. Three employees from Service Termite continued with Smithereen in the acquisition.

Smithereen currently provides commercial and residential pest control in Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Michigan, Missouri and Wisconsin.

Founded in 1888, Smithereen’s first-generation owner E.R. Jennings, a Chicago pharmaceutical salesman, developed an effective, non-toxic solution to protect from lice and fleas. The former Smithereen Exterminators continued to evolve throughout the years and in 2001, Smithereen Exterminating Company — America’s Pied Piper, became Smithereen Pest Management Services — Your Partner for a Healthy Environment.

“The new name accurately reflects Smithereen’s commitment to continuing the use of integrated pest management techniques and developing innovative strategies and long-term solutions,” Seifert said. “We’ll look forward to introducing that philosophy to our new customers.”

According to a statement, Smithereen is one of the first pest control companies to offer an integrated pest management approach to pest issues, and remains committed to developing its professional pest management services as a member of numerous industry associations, including the National Pest Management Association, Greater Chicago Pest Management Alliance, Midwest Pesticide Action Center and the Illinois Healthcare Association.

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from Pest Management Professional https://www.mypmp.net/2020/01/31/smithereen-pest-management-ends-2019-with-acquisition/
Sacramento CA

Following Fire Damage Restoration Fundamentals to Save an Elementary School

Any size fire is enough to interrupt operations at an educational facility. It’s how to recover from the fire in a timely fashion that often proves to be challenging.

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Mold Remediation Baltimore

The Aust Group facilitates New Jersey deal

From left are: Sam Hagopian, Sam Hagopian III, Ryan Fowley, Ed Heller, Jerry Lubrano Jr., Stuart Aust, Daniel Aust, Nick Aust and Chris Aust. Not pictured: Brady Lubrano. PHOTO: THE AUST GROUP

Excel Termite & Pest Control, headquartered in River Edge, N.J., purchased Twin Boro Termite & Pest Control. The transaction closed on Jan. 15, and the terms were not disclosed.

Twin Boro, located in Westwood, N.J., was founded by the late Jerry Lubrano in 1976, when he was 23 years old. The company primarily serves residential customers in the northern New Jersey county of Bergen. Each year, Twin Boro Termite & Pest Control performs pest and termite control services for more than 1,500 homes.

“Over the past 40 years, Jerry Lubrano and the Twin Boro staff built one of the most recognizable companies in Northern New Jersey, and we are very excited to partner with them,” said Sam Hagopian, president of Excel Termite & Pest Control. “Twin Boro is a great fit because we share the same core values and commitment to both our employees and customers. With our resources, we will be able to build upon that commitment and prosper into the future together.”

Service Manager Ed Heller operated Twin Boro since Lubrano’s passing in February 2019. Key employees Teddy Calderon and Mary Lynch helped operate the business. Heller and the rest of the Twin Boro staff plan to remain with Excel.

Lubrano’s daughter, Brady, said: “Thank you very much to The Aust Group for guiding and representing us with the sale of our father’s business. We are happy with the new owners and know Twin Boro’s existing customers will be, too.”

The Aust Group represented Twin Boro as the exclusive financial adviser for this transaction. The Paramus, N.J.-based consulting firm was founded by Stuart Aust, who is a member of Pest Management Professional’s (PMP‘s) Editorial Advisory Board.

“For a company with such an incredible history, it was a real honor to serve as an adviser on behalf of Twin Boro,” Aust said. “Growing up in Washington Township, New Jersey, my parents were clients of Twin Boro as they were the premier pest control company in our area. I remember seeing the yellow trucks everywhere – they were hard to miss. We are glad to see the Twin Boro legacy live on with the acquisition by such a reputable company in Excel Termite & Pest Control.”

Known for their bright yellow service trucks, Twin Boro served as pioneers for marketing and advertising in the pest control industry, according to a statement from the Aust Group. The vehicles became so popular among customers that Twin Boro adopted the slogan: “You’ve Seen Our Yellow Trucks.”

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Sacramento CA

Innovative Pest Control Products: Ant Café Pro

PHOTO: INNOVATIVE PEST CONTROL PRODUCTS

The Ant Café — a staple of the pest control industry for more than 18 years, and with over 4 million sold — now has big brother. The Ant Café Pro refillable insect bait station offers pest management professionals (PMPs) twice the volume of the Ant Café for larger bait placements; a built-in locking mechanism for convenience and safety; a tighter seal to keep gel and liquid baits fresher longer; and an adjustable entryway that allows large ants and small cockroaches to access the bait. Its polypropylene construction is built tough for many months of use, while its triangular shape allows inconspicuous placement on window sills and counters. Double-sided tape ensures secure placement.

AntCafe.com

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Sacramento CA

News from Lodi UK - join our team

Lodi, the leading European manufacturer and supplier of pest control products, is on the look out for a new Business Development Manager for its pest control business in the UK. This exciting career opportunity comes with a £40,000 basic salary, a company car, laptop and mobile phone plus an on target bonus.

from SmartBlog https://www.pestmagazine.co.uk/en/news/posts/2020/january/news-from-lodi-uk-join-our-team
Pest Control Pros

3 Turner Pest Control staff members earn ACE

Mike Litsey, ACE. PHOTO: TURNER PEST CONTROL

Turner Pest Control, an Anticimex company, announces that three employees recently became Associate Certified Entomologists (ACE). The company now has five entomologists certified by the Entomological Society of America’s ACE program.

The members of Turner’s team who have earned ACE certification include:

1. Northeast Regional Director Mike Litsey
2. Technical Director Wade Wilson
3. Commercial Branch Manager Donnie Sanderson
4. Orlando Branch Manager Trent Mobley
5. Jacksonville Branch Manager Richard Kerins

Litsey and Wilson have been with Turner for years and were certified in 2017. The three additional staff members were certified in December 2019.

“Mike and I wanted to become Associate Certified Entomologists to further our education in the industry and bring our best to the local community with the latest innovations and to pass our knowledge on to the younger generations of technicians,” Wilson said.

Founded in 1971, Turner serves customers throughout Florida and South Georgia. With about 1,100 ACEs in the United States, only 121 are in the state of Florida.

Turner has more than 300 full-time pest management professionals, which include the company’s five ACEs and 37 state-certified technicians.

“The hard work and dedication of our Associated Certified Entomologists is deeply appreciated,” President Bill Talon said. “As our company has experienced rapid growth in the last year, these team members exemplify our commitment to becoming the leader in modern preventative pest management. Our customers gain the peace of mind that comes with having professionals who stay current in their field and up to date with the latest research and insect science.”

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Sacramento CA

IICRC Opens Nominations for the Keith Williams Award

The Keith Williams Award was created to honor its namesake, an industry pioneer who volunteered their time and technical abilities to the IICRC for many years.

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Mold Remediation Baltimore

Restoring Success: It's All a Matter of Culture

Culture can impact an organization’s ability to adopt new technology, overcome challenges, provide world-class service, provide opportunities for growth, learning, development, and more

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Mold Remediation Baltimore

FSS names Iowa area manager

Sam Weighner, Fumigation Service & Supply (FSS)

Fumigation Service & Supply (FSS), headquartered in Westfield, Ind., named Sam Weighner area manager as the company extends its coverage area in Iowa.

The new coverage area includes Western Iowa, Missouri and Nebraska, where FSS will offer DynamicIPM, fumigation and decontamination services and product support.

Weighner grew up in Northeastern Iowa and eastern Colorado, graduating from Greely Colorado High School. He went on to study geology at the University of Wyoming.

Weighner has worked as a third-party food safety consultant, writing programs and helping food processing plants reach compliance with GFSI benchmarked audits. Before accepting his new role with FSS, he helped design and install water mitigation and concrete repair in both residential and commercial settings when he moved back to the Des Moines, Iowa, area.

Weighner enjoys the outdoors hunting, and spending time with his wife, Lindsay, and their son, Daniel. He can be reached at s.weighner@fumigationzone.com.

Established in 1981, FSS provides integrated pest management, fumigation and decontamination services for commercial sectors such as food production, commodity storage, grains, seed, animal nutrition, pet food, milling, processing, distribution and export. Service capabilities include remote rodent, insect and gas monitoring technologies.

FSS and its sister company Insects Limited are hosting its 14th Fumigants & Pheromones Conference in Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe, on May 12-14, 2020. Learn more about the biennial event here.

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from Pest Management Professional https://www.mypmp.net/2020/01/30/fss-names-iowa-area-manager/
Sacramento CA

New WOTUS rule released

PHOTO: BEELDBEWERKING/ISTOCK / GETTY IMAGES PLUS/GETTY IMAGES

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers released a new Waters of the United States (WOTUS) rule.

The final rule defines the scope of waters federally regulated under the Clean Water Act. The Navigable Waters Protection Rule is the second step in a comprehensive, two-step process intended to review and revise the definition of WOTUS. The final rule will become effective 60 days after publication in the Federal Register. Once effective, it replaces the rule published on Oct. 22, 2019.

RISE (Responsible Industry for a Sound Environment) and the National Pest Management Association (NPMA) are several entities reviewing the new rule.

According to a statement from RISE, the Clean Water Act rule, published Jan. 23, gives clarity to specialty pesticide applicators.

“The changes made by the EPA and Army Corps of Engineers in the new Navigable Waters Protection rule bring the clarity needed to ensure essential pesticide applications protecting public health, safety, infrastructure and ecosystems continue in an environment of regulatory and business certainty,” said RISE President Megan Provost. “Finding the right balance between our pesticide statute, the FIFRA (Federal Insecticide, Fungicide and Rodenticide Act), which regulates all aspects of pesticide use, including uses on or near water, and the Clean Water Act has been our objective and has now been achieved.

“For the specialty pesticide industry, the new rule contains important refinements to the definitions of waters coming under federal jurisdiction and waters coming under state and local jurisdiction,” Provost continued. “Along with our national partners, we are encouraging everyone in our industry to become familiar with the rule and to understand the intersection of our pesticide statute, the FIFRA, and Clean Water Act National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System permits. Our commitment to protecting people, places and our nation’s waters continues with this new rule.”

The revised definition identifies four categories of waters that are federally regulated under the Clean Water Act:

1. Territorial seas and traditional navigable waters
2. Perennial and intermittent tributaries
3. Certain lakes, ponds, and impoundments
4. Wetlands that are adjacent to jurisdictional waters

The new rule defines “adjacent wetlands” as wetlands that are meaningfully connected to other jurisdictional waters — for example, by directly abutting or having regular surface water communication with waters under federal control under the Clean Water Act.

This final action also details what waters are not subject to federal control, including:

• Features that only contain water in direct response to rainfall
• Groundwater
• Many ditches, including most farm and roadside ditches
• Prior converted cropland
• Farm and stock watering ponds
• Waste treatment systems

Under the previous rule, discharges of pollutants, such as chemical pesticides, into or near WOTUS required a National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System permit under the Clean Water Act. The definition of what constituted a WOTUS was not well defined; it could range from a lake to a puddle in a driveway, according to NPMA VP of Public Policy Ashley Amidon.

Find out more about the new rule on the EPA’s website.

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from Pest Management Professional https://www.mypmp.net/2020/01/30/new-wotus-rule-released/
Sacramento CA

TOMI’s SteraMist Preparedness for Aiding in the new Coronavirus-Wuhan or 2019- nCoV Outbreak

SteraMist features efficacy against Influenza A, SARS, MERS and similar, enveloped viral threats including coronavirus-Wuhan (2019-nCoV).

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Mold Remediation Baltimore

Introducing the DoMyOwn Pest Box | Customized DIY Pest Control Program from DoMyOwn.com

from DoMyOwn https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=obRhcBpztmg
Sacramento California

Coronavirus: Proper Disinfection Protocols

This video interview with the Director of Forensic Operations for the Global Biorisk Advisory Council walks through how to properly disinfect and mitigate this virus if your company is called in to help with cleanup.

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Mold Remediation Baltimore

Arrangements for new gull licences announced

Natural England has today released details of the new arrangements to allow pest professionals to use lethal controls to manage herring and lesser black-backed gulls. Anyone intending to control these species to protect public health and safety must apply for an individual licence, A08.

from SmartBlog https://www.pestmagazine.co.uk/en/news/posts/2020/january/arrangements-for-new-gull-licences-announced
Pest Control Pros

Revised overtime pay rule finally takes effect

PHOTO ILLUSTRATION: ISTOCK.COM/VINNSTOCK

The U.S. Department of Labor’s (DOL’s) Final Overtime Rule, which requires employers to pay certain employees overtime pay after working more than 40 hours a week, took effect Jan. 1.

Initially slated to go into effect Dec. 1, 2016, a judge in Texas prevented enactment in November 2016 by issuing a preliminary injunction stating the DOL didn’t have the authority to automatically update the rule.

Previously, the Fair Labor Standards Act (FSLA) required overtime pay for workers paid less than $23,660 per year, or $455 per week. The rule that would have taken effect in 2016 would have pushed the minimum salary for exempt employees to $47,476, or $913 per week.

Now, exempt employees covered by the FLSA earning less than $35,568 per year, or $684 per week, must be paid overtime if they work more than 40 hours during the work week.

In addition, employers may satisfy up to 10 percent of an employee’s standard salary level by using nondiscretionary bonuses and incentive payments, including commissions they paid their employee annually, at least.

The DOL’s new Final Overtime Rule may affect employees who are paid a salary so they will not have to receive overtime pay, as certain requirements must be met for compliance.

Companies that comply with exempt vs. non- exempt rules regarding compensation won’t need to take action. However, employers may need to make changes if:

• They pay a salary to employees considered exempt under the DOL definition for workers who primarily perform executive, administrative or professional duties. For more information, visit DOL.gov.
• Their salaried workers earn less than $35,568 a year and work overtime. For additional information, visit DOL.gov.

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Sacramento CA

Trece: CIDETRAK IMM

If your clients store food, spices, raw commodities, etc; they are at risk of Indianmeal moth (IMM) infestation. Why not prevent an infestation? Wouldn’t that be more beneficial than risking infested, unfit for human consumption foods? CIDETRAK IMM MD is a leader in IMM control and prevention. It’s used in many different facilities such as retail, grocery, distribution, manufacturing, processing and raw commodity storage. The company notes that a movie theatre chain, for example, for using CIDETRAK IMM MD to eliminate an IMM infestation and offer future prevention.

Trece.com

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Sacramento CA

UCR researchers find way to put insects into arrested development

Today, fruit flies; tomorrow, the world! PHOTO: ISTOCK.COM/STOCKSTUDIOX

The University of California-Riverside’s Jules Bernstein sent us some interesting news this week:
 

New research from UC Riverside shows scientists may soon be able to prevent disease-spreading mosquitoes from maturing. Using the same gene-altering techniques, they may also be able help boost reproduction in beneficial bumblebees.

The research shows that, contrary to previous scientific belief, a hormone required for sexual maturity in insects cannot travel across a mass of cells separating the blood from the brain — unless it is aided by a transporter protein molecule.

“Before this finding, there had been a longstanding assumption that steroid hormones pass freely through the blood-brain barrier,” said Dr. Naoki Yamanaka, an assistant professor of entomology at UCR, who led the research. “We have shown that’s not so.”

The study, published this month in the journal Current Biology, details the effects on sexual maturity in fruit flies when the transporter protein is blocked.

Blocking the transporter not only prevented the steroid from entering the brain, it also permanently altered the flies’ behavior. When flies are in their infancy, or “maggot,” stage, they usually stay on or in a source of food.

Later, as they prepare to enter a more adult phase of life, they exhibit “wandering behavior,” in which they come out of their food to find a place to shed their outer body layer and transform into an adult fly.

When the transporter gene was blocked, Dr. Yamanaka said, the flies entered a median stage between infancy and adulthood, but never wandered out of their food, and died slowly afterward without ever reaching adulthood or reproducing.

“Our biggest motivation for this study was to challenge the prevailing assumption about free movement of steroids past the blood-brain barrier, by using fruit flies as a model species,” Dr. Yamanaka said. “In the long run, we’re interested in controlling the function of steroid hormone transporters to manipulate insect and potentially human behaviors.”

Currently, Dr. Yamanaka is examining whether altering genes in mosquitoes could have a similar effect. Since mosquitoes are vectors for numerous diseases, including Zika, West Nile Virus, malaria and Dengue fever, there is great potential for the findings to improve human health.

Conversely, there may be a way to alter the genes to manipulate reproduction in beneficial insects as well, in order to help them.

But wait a minute, isn’t that how insect growth regulators (IGRs), which have been on the market for decades, work? Not quite. In a follow-up email, Dr. Yamanaka clarified the difference:

Our most recent research specifically focused on the function of the steroid hormone transporter in the blood-brain barrier (BBB). When you block this transporter only in the BBB, it does not affect their overall growth, but it specifically alters brain development and function controlled by the steroid hormone, and hence the insects’ behavior. But (not surprisingly) as the normal function of the brain is required for normal insect growth, blocking the transporter only in the BBB can also disrupt insect development, just like normal IGRs.

One thing we’re interested in doing now, is to manipulate the BBB transporter only during their adult stage. Insects perform many important (i.e. ecologically and economically relevant) behaviors as adults, such as courtship, pollination, and blood feeding. We’re trying to figure out whether these adult-specific behaviors are controlled by the steroid hormone or not; and if they are, we will try to manipulate these adult-specific behaviors by targeting the BBB transporter only in the adults and see if we can control insect behaviors at will.

New research on pest insect behavior is always appreciated, and we’ll be following this development with interest.

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Sacramento CA

Shake up at ServiceMaster – not good news for the sale of pest control companies

ServiceMaster, the owner of Terminix, has announced it is to explore strategic alternatives for its franchise ServiceMaster businesses. The reason behind this divestment is not good news for pest control companies looking to sell-up.

from SmartBlog https://www.pestmagazine.co.uk/en/news/posts/2020/january/shake-up-at-servicemaster-not-good-news-for-the-sale-of-pest-control-companies
Pest Control Pros

Time to nominate your favourite product

The search has begun. Which fabulous new product will win the Pest readers vote in 2020? Nominations for the Best Product Award 2020 are now being accepted. So what’s impressed you so far?

from SmartBlog https://www.pestmagazine.co.uk/en/news/posts/2020/january/time-to-nominate-your-favourite-product
Pest Control Pros

Shake up at ServiceMaster – not good news for pest control company sales

SeviceMaster, the owner of Terminix, has announced it is to explore strategic alternatives for its franchise ServiceMaster businesses. The reason behind this divestment is not good news for pest control companies looking to sell-up.

from SmartBlog https://www.pestmagazine.co.uk/en/news/posts/2020/january/shake-up-at-servicemaster-not-good-news-for-pest-control-company-sales
Pest Control Pros

ESA hires director of strategic initiatives

Erin Cadwalader. PHOTO: ENTOMOLOGICAL SOCIETY OF AMERICA

The Entomological Society of America (ESA) has hired Dr. Erin Cadwalader as director of strategic initiatives. She succeeds Chris Stelzig, who was promoted to the association’s executive director at the end of 2019.

Cadwalader began her new role Jan. 2, which entails directing a variety of programs including the ESA Science Policy program, the Vector-Borne Disease Network, the Grand Challenges Agenda for Entomology and the Science Policy Fellows program.

Previously, Cadwalader served as a government relations associate at Lewis-Burke Associates in Washington, D.C., since 2014, where she represented the interests of five universities and two professional societies, including the ESA. Her expert consulting role in the creation and growth of ESA’s Science Policy program made her an ideal candidate for director of strategic initiatives.

Now full time with the ESA, Cadwalader will continue the day-to-day government relations and advocacy work conducted in conjunction with Lewis-Burke.

“When Erin was the team lead at our partner Lewis-Burke, I found her advice to be indispensable,” Stelzig said. “So, when the ESA Executive Committee offered me the job of executive director, my first thought was to find a way to continue working with her. She is exactly the right person to take ESA’s advocacy program to the next level.”

She will also oversee the operations of the ESA Certification Corporation and serve as a liaison to the ESA’s Section Governing Councils.

Willet Hossfeld, certification programs manager, will now report to Cadwalader. Hossfeld will continue to be the primary day-to-day contact for ACE and BCE programs.

Cadwalader has also served in policy advocate roles at the Association for Women in Science, Research!America and the Utah Health Policy Project. She earned her B.S. in biochemistry and molecular biology at the University of Wisconsin-Madison and her Ph.D. in neurobiology and anatomy at the University of Utah .

“I’m thrilled to join the great team at ESA, because entomology is central to so many of the biggest challenges we are facing domestically and globally,” Cadwalader says. “Whether you’re talking about public health and vector-borne disease, sustainable agricultural practices, invasive species, protecting pollinators, or growing concerns about a loss of biodiversity, insects are ubiquitous. I look forward to helping ensure entomologists are part of the solution to these challenges.”

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Sacramento CA

Register Now for Summit 2.020 by The Alliance of Independent Restorers

Summit 2.020 will focus on (20/20) Vision for your company and for your life

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Mold Remediation Baltimore

Dan Baldwin talks public health, food safety

Dan Baldwin, BCE, CCFS, CP-FS, Director of Technical Training & Regulatory Services for Terminix Commercial and PMP Columnist, shares some thoughts about food safety and why pest management professionals are stewards of public health.

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Sacramento CA

Could 2019 just be forgot and never brought to mind?

One bright spot in 2019 was the author attending the PMP Hall of Fame the night before PestWorld got underway
in San Diego, Calif., in October. PHOTO: DIANE SOFRANEC

Goodbye, 2019. Good riddance, 2019. And as my Nebraska Momma likes to say, “Don’t let the door hit ya where the good Lord split ya.”

If 2019 was the windshield, I was definitely the bug. So many things went wrong. So many people acted immaturely. Many bad decisions were made by yours truly. Normally, I dread the slow season of November through March. In 2019, it couldn’t come quickly enough.

WHERE DO I BEGIN?

How about firing my own brother in February? I followed that up by firing my best-producing tech the same day. They were causing problems within my company, stirring the pot, and both had become cancerous to Schopen Pest Solutions. That same week, I had another tech quit because of a nervous breakdown. One week later, my inside sales guy quit to take a union job.

During the summer, we had less drama, but there were still some issues. Losing my inside sales guy really hurt. In June, we had our first — and hopefully, last — flat month in company history. Without my inside sales guy helping me chase down leads, we had just $700 of growth. Additionally, I fired a programmer and lost two techs: One became a truck driver, and another left for the sunny state of Florida. To make matters worse, I underfunded our workman’s comp insurance plan and owed more than $21,000.

February was a bad month for employee-related issues, but September proudly stood up and said, “Hold my beer.” I had a tech quit. Then a programmer quit.

One tech missed some time for wisdom teeth removal, and another took some time off to be with his newborn baby — both valid reasons, but both further depleting an already overworked labor pool.

One of my best techs started getting mysterious joint pains, and couldn’t physically run a route anymore. Another tech started getting mysterious migraines, and couldn’t physically run his route anymore. Yet another employee had jury duty. One of my promising service technicians temporarily lost his license, thanks to an insurance issue. Aggghhhh!

As we rolled into October and November, things got worse. Another tech missed some time after his wisdom teeth were extracted. Police officers showed up at our building because one of our service guys left a school account during a lockdown drill at a school, which is a no-no.

My nephew, who had been with me for four years, crashed his brand-new truck, causing $16,000 in damage. He quit a week later.

On Veteran’s Day, someone plowed their vehicle into our building and took off before the police could arrive. Damage to the building was $28,000. My deductible is $10,000. Sigh.

LOOKING AT THE BRIGHT SIDE

As stressful as 2019 turned out to be, there were still some highlights:

• My wife wrote a great column for PMP last month.
• My speaking engagements have been expanding.
• I finally went to PestWorld.
• Speaking of PestWorld, I loved San Diego and hanging out with Fred Willey of Invader Pest Management and Larry Cash of Estrella Mountain Pest Control.
• My son Caleb made it to the state meet in cross country.
• I’ve met some amazing people this year, including Joel Miller, Miller Pest and Termite; Eric Fletcher, Eastern Arizona Exterminating; and Kevin Thorn, Thorn Pest Solutions.
• We passed the $2 million mark.
• It was a total team effort this year. It wasn’t just me putting out fires. Several people stepped up to the plate and hit home runs this year. And for that, I am truly grateful!
• My tech who was experiencing the joint pains has since learned he has fibromyalgia. He is now our inside sales guy, and he is doing great.

In 2020, my goals are:

• Crack the $2.5 million barrier.
• Hire a full-time commercial salesperson.
• Promote an employee to service manager.
• Promote an employee to quality control.
• Watch my son Trey walk to the podium and graduate from the College of Wooster (Ohio) in May.
• Create a better and more professional training manual.
• Get our $125,000 roof finally completed and paid off.

I know God will only give me what I can handle. There is also a quote from German philosopher Friedrich Nietzsche that states, “That which does not kill us makes us stronger.” If that’s true, I must be Superman.

---

Schopen is owner and founder of Schopen Pest Solutions, McHenry, Ill. You can email him at pete@schopenpest.com or reach him via Twitter: @schopenpest; Instagram: @peteschopen; or Facebook: Schopen Pest Solutions, Inc.

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Sacramento CA

Demonstrate value, even in winter

PHOTO: LEONID IKAN/ISTOCK / GETTY IMAGES PLUS/GETTY IMAGES

QUESTION:

When my techs make their quarterly winter visits, they’re often asked by customers why they’re bothering when the frost has killed off “all” the pests. What is a tactful way to respond, and are there things we should consider doing differently? —CURIOUS IN THE COLD
 

ANSWER:

Our year-round job, regardless of pest pressure levels, is to educate our customers that the value we bring is not in “spraying pesticides,” but in evaluating, assessing and making recommendations to help prevent pest introductions into their homes and remediate pest infestations they currently have in their homes.

Take two exterior examples of what you might do in the summer that wouldn’t make sense in the winter:

1. Apply insecticide granules or granular bait to the exterior perimeter. Both of these are worthy applications in the summer based on your observations, customer reports or past history. However, in the winter, with no pest pressure or possibly even no pests present at all, these applications are a waste of time and money.

2. Use liquid residual around entry points. This is another worthy application type in the summer. However, unless you are applying into a protected entry point, such as a gap that leads to a void, product you leave exposed on the outside of the house is not going to survive until your next application in harsh conditions. Again, are you actually preventing anything from getting in when there is nothing active?

What can you do on the exterior? Certainly inspect, remediate any structural issues that you can, and recommend repairs to the customer for things you can’t fix. Keep in mind — and point out to the customer — that structural entry points for pests also are heated air exit points. Fixing these pest entry points can help reduce their heating bill. That’s value!
 

INTERIOR IDEAS

What can you do on the interior to add value? This is a bit different, thanks to the fact that pesticide applications will not be subject to the potentially harsh weather conditions on the exterior. Still, we need to think about what is going to happen to that application over the next few months, before we return for service: Will there be insects to come across that application? What are some non-application actions we can take?

Also, there may be structural issues that are more evident when seen from the interior than the exterior. Do they have stacks of Amazon boxes from holiday gift-giving that might bring in or harbor pests? Have they seen any pantry pests for which you can inspect?

These actions and recommendations help demonstrate your skills as a well-trained pest management professional.
 

Don’t you … forget about mice

Several years ago, I got a wake-up call with regard to how active mice can be, even in subzero temperatures. I received a new sleeping bag for Christmas, so I decided to go winter backpacking. (This does not even make the Top 20 of crazy things I have done.) That first night, temperatures went down to around 10°F, and we got an ice storm. A very nice ranger asked whether we wanted him to drive us out, but we refused – because we had these really nice sleeping bags.

After a sleepless, hypothermic night, we learned in the morning that our stuff, which had been out in the open because we had no tent, had been ransacked by mice while we “slept.” I took away two lessons from this experience:

1. Never underestimate the level of cold in which a mouse can be active.

2. Don’t believe the weather-rating stickers on sleeping bags.

---

Email your questions about insect identification and pest management technologies to pmpeditor@northcoastmedia.net. Your questions most likely will be printed and answered in one of Pest Management Professional’s upcoming columns.

BLACK is a PMP Hall of Fame member (Class of 2019) and VP of quality assurance and technical service for Rollins Inc. She may be reached at jblack@rollins.com.

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Sacramento CA

Innolytics: Ovocontrol P

IMAGE: INNOLYTICS

Featuring an active ingredient of 0.5 percent nicarbazin, OvoControl P controls the population of pigeons and other pest birds through a natural cycle of attrition — with no dead or dying birds to worry customers. OvoControl is now approved as a general-use pesticide in all 50 states.

OvoControl.com

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Sacramento CA

Ehrlich Pest helps hero’s family

LOGO: EHRLICH PEST CONTROL

Ehrlich Pest Control, a Rentokil Steritech company, joined forces with “Military Makeover with Montel,” a TV series that documents the transformation of homes of military families across the country.

Ehrlich will contribute to remodeling the family home of the late Christopher Hixon, a U.S. Navy veteran and teacher who lost his life during the events on Feb. 14, 2018, at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Fla.

As part of Ehrlich’s involvement, a team of pest experts from the company will provide a comprehensive home inspection and customized pest assessment, install a termite baiting and monitoring system on the exterior of the property, and complete a pre-move in general pest control service for the home. In addition to providing pre and post-construction pest control and termite services for the home, Ehrlich also plans to unveil additional surprises for the Hixon family as part of the reveal.

The upcoming season of “Military Makeover with Montel” dedicated to the Hixon family begins airing in February.

“Military Makeover with Montel,” which airs nationally on Lifetime Television, is hosted by talk show legend and military advocate Montel Williams, a veteran of both the Marine Corps and the Navy. Along with pest control professionals, the series enlists designers, contractors, landscapers and other home improvement professionals.

“Christopher Hixon dedicated his life to protecting the lives of others, first through the U.S. Navy, then as a dedicated and beloved teacher at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School, doing whatever necessary to protect the students under his care,” said Mike St. Clair Sr., VP of sales and marketing for Ehrlich and an Army veteran. “It is Ehrlich’s great privilege to give back to his family and honor his legacy by protecting them and their new home from pests.”

Founded in 1928, Ehrlich Pest Control serves the Eastern U.S., with more than 50 offices serving nearly 20 states and the District of Columbia. Ehrlich provides proactive pest control solutions which includes general pest control, rodent, termite, bed bug, mosquito, wildlife management and TAP insulation services.

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Sacramento CA

Restoration Roundup: The Latest Headlines Affecting the Restoration Industry | 1.28.20

The latest on the Australian bushfires, asbestos fears in an elementary school, the latest spring flood outlook, and more.

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Mold Remediation Baltimore

Restoration 1® and bluefrog Plumbing + Drain® Celebrate Expansion, Awards and More in 2019

Restoration 1 surpasses 250 locations with expansions into two new states.

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Mold Remediation Baltimore

CoreLogic Acquires Location, Inc.

Acquisition expands insurance risk analytics and real estate insights for CoreLogic customers for non-weather water and fire, hail and crime risk data.

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Mold Remediation Baltimore

PestRoutes partners with Gryphon Investors

Patrick McKittrick. PHOTO: PESTROUTES

McKinney, Texas- based PestRoutes has partnered with Gryphon Investors, a San Francisco, Calif.-based middle-market private equity firm, which has made a majority investment in the software provider for pest control companies.

Existing financial sponsor Mainsail Partners will retain a minority stake, as will PestRoutes co-founder Jared Green. The current executive team, led by CEO Patrick McKittrick, will continue to manage the business.

“With the backing of both Gryphon Investors and Mainsail Partners, as well as our founder Jared Green, we are well positioned to continue to be the destination platform for pest control companies in the years to come,” McKittrick said.

Founded in 2012, PestRoutes provides business management software and, through its Lobster Marketing brand, integrated marketing solutions to pest control, lawn care, pool servicing and other field service industries. The company serves more than 1,500 residential and commercial pest control and field service companies, automating all aspects of their operations, including route optimization, real-time technician tracking, customer communications, scheduling and billing.

“We have enjoyed rapid growth under our partnership with Mainsail, and we are now excited to work with Gryphon as we pursue further expansion of functionality to our existing customers and markets, as well as products serving new industries within field services,” McKittrick said. “Gryphon’s added financial and operational resources will allow us to more easily scale our operations rapidly and efficiently, ultimately improving the already high-quality experience that our customers have come to associate with PestRoutes.”

As part of the transaction, three Gryphon executives will join the PestRoutes board of directors, including: Nick Orum, president and co-head of the software group; Carl Theobald, software operating partner; and Jon Cheek, deal principal in the software group. These three join Mainsail Partner Jason Payne, who remains on the board.

“PestRoutes serves a number of large and growing field services markets with complex software needs that are not being met by existing solutions,” Cheek said. “PestRoutes not only addresses the complicated requirements of field services companies of all sizes, but it does so through the use of modern, easy-to-use software complemented by high-quality customer service, which together provide tremendous value and a superior customer experience.”

Vista Point Advisors acted as financial advisor to Gryphon, and Arbor Advisors was the financial advisor to PestRoutes. Kirkland & Ellis acted as legal advisor to Gryphon, and Goodwin Procter acted as legal advisor to PestRoutes. Terms of the deal were not disclosed.

“Companies are searching for a partner who listens to their feedback, takes care of customers and never ceases to invest in its product, and we plan to continue to be at the forefront when it comes to those things in the pest control industry,” McKittrick said.

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Sacramento CA

Early Bird Rates Available for RIA's International Restoration Convention + Industry Expo

Register before February 7th and take advantage of the lowest rate available! 

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ServiceMaster names Naren Gursahaney interim CEO

Naren Gursahaney. PHOTO: SERVICEMASTER

ServiceMaster has named Naren Gursahaney, current chairman of the board, as interim CEO of the company.

He succeeds Nik Varty, who has stepped down as CEO and board member to pursue other opportunities. Varty will continue to assist ServiceMaster’s management team and board of directors in an advisory role for a short period to ensure a smooth transition, according to the company.

Mark Tomkins, who has served as a member of the board of directors since June of 2015, will assume Gursahaney’s role as lead independent director.

“We believe ServiceMaster shareholders would benefit from our Terminix business becoming a pure-play, global pest control company with enhanced management focus and resources,” Gursahaney said. “We expect that proceeds arising from a possible transaction would be used for debt reduction, prudent strategic growth opportunities and shareholder returns. At the same time, we will continue to advance our commitment to predictable, sustainable growth and profitability at Terminix through continued execution of the cultural and operational transformation of the business that is underway.”

The board has launched a process to choose a successor to lead ServiceMaster including selecting an outside, executive search firm to assist in evaluating qualified candidates.

Gursahaney was appointed non-executive chair of the board of directors on May 1, 2019. He has served on the board of directors since December 2017.

He is also the former president and CEO of The ADT Corp., a leading provider of security and automation solutions for homes and businesses in the United States and Canada. Prior to ADT’s separation from Tyco International Ltd., in September 2012, Gursahaney served as president of Tyco’s ADT North American Residential business segment and was the president of Tyco Security Solutions, then a provider of electronic security to residential, commercial, industrial and governmental customers and the largest operating segment of Tyco.

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Sacramento CA

CleanBrands: PRO Max

IMAGE: CLEANBRANDS

The CleanRest PRO Max bed bug blocking mattress encasement represents CleanBrands’ approach to maximum waterproofing. It also offers maximum spill protection and bed bug protection while promoting a cool and comfortable night’s sleep. PRO Max has four sides of waterproofing on the top, bottom, and long ends. Because waterproof fabric traps air, CleanBrands designed PRO Max with vented ends at the head and foot to allow warm air to escape the mattress and thus avoid the problem of trapping air, which can create a hot and uncomfortable sleep experience. Free samples are available.

CleanRest.com

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Sacramento CA

Massey Services promotes regional VP, regional managers

John Milton. PHOTO: MASSEY SERVICES

Massey Services has promoted John Milton to regional VP and also promoted three team members to regional managers in various Florida markets.

Milton will be responsible for overseeing the company’s North Texas, South Texas, Northwest Florida and Midwest Florida regions in his new role.

He joined Massey in 1999 as a lawn and pest technician. Since then, he was promoted multiple times. He was selected as general manager of the GreenUP Villages service center in 2002, which he grew annually, with an average revenue increase of 25 percent each year.

In 2012, Milton was promoted to division manager for the company’s four Service Centers in The Villages. Massey Services has provided pest prevention, termite protection and landscape services to residents and businesses in The Villages, a master-planned retirement community in Sumter County, Fla., for more than 20 years.

Then, in 2013, Milton was promoted to regional manager of the Northwest Florida region.

“Throughout his career at Massey, John has demonstrated outstanding leadership and dedication to our company and our customers,” said President Tony Massey. “Under his guidance, the Northwest Florida region has experienced significant growth.  The Massey Services team is extremely excited for John on this well-deserved promotion and the great things he will continue to bring to our Texas and Florida markets.”

The three regional managers promoted in Florida include Deidre Eidson, Chris Chatham and Paul Giordano. All three team members have been with the company for more than a decade. In their new roles, each will be responsible for all aspects of operations including sales, training and community relations in their regions.

“Deidre, Chris and Paul have been outstanding contributors and leaders for our company,” Massey said. “They have been recognized for their commitment to our customers, passion for team member development and dedication to profitable growth.”

Find out more about each regional manager:

• Eidson was promoted to the Villages Florida region. She joined Massey in 2001 as a residential lawn specialist. She was later promoted to the role of service manager and then general manager in 2007. Most recently she served as the general manager of the GreenUP Marion service center.
• Chatham was promoted to the Northwest Florida region. He began his career as a commercial pest technician in 2004. Since then, he’s held various positions, including sales inspector, service manager and general manager.  He was most recently the general manager of the GreenUP South Villages service center.
• Giordano was been promoted to the East Florida region. He joined Massey Services in 2005 as a manager trainee. He’s held various operational positions in both Massey’s residential and commercial business divisions.

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Sacramento CA

Control tips for difficult spiders

Dr. Janis Reed, BCE, Technical Services Manager, Product Development Team, Control Solutions Inc.

One common question I get from pest management professionals (PMPs) is “why are spiders so difficult to control?” The answer, though, is not an easy one to explain for three big reasons:

1. We rely on pests’ grooming practices to help deliver the pesticide from the outside of their bodies by grooming it off with their mouthparts. But spiders do not groom themselves like many insects do.
2. Most pest control products are targeted to insects. But spiders are not insects; their biochemistry is different.
3. Spiders typically are not exposed to the pesticide residues for long enough, or with enough surface area of their bodies, to pick up enough product to reach a lethal dose.

Thus, when a customer has an ongoing spider problem, consider the following:

• Identification of the specific spider species will help you determine control methods.
• Sanitation: Remove as much clutter and debris as possible where the spiders are living.
• Use a “quick-knockdown” product for fast relief.
• Physically remove webs where possible.
• Use a residual, and pinpoint application into harborage areas.

Spiders can be a difficult pest, and often require a different mindset. Remember to start with a thorough inspection — and don’t be afraid to try something new.

MORE:

With every pest situation, knowledge is power — and spiders are no different. Read more for Dr. Reed about identifying spiders.

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Sacramento CA

Certus selects Florida region president

Ron Shakespeare. PHOTO: CERTUS

Certus has hired Ron Shakespeare as president for its Florida region.

In his new role, Shakespeare will focus on the instilling the company’s culture in all acquired businesses as well as the company’s commitment to providing world-class customer service.

“Having the opportunity to be a part of a people-first, results-oriented company was appealing to me,” Shakespeare said. “I am looking forward to working with the rest of the Certus team to build our Florida business into a world-class operation.”

According to the company, Shakespeare will be an active member of the Florida pest control community, helping ensure that Certus is a positive contributor to the state’s industry.

With more than 24 years of experience, Shakespeare began his career as a branch manager for Terminix. He has also held several  management positions at Steritech, and then Rentokil.

“Ron was a natural fit for the Florida Regional President position. His people-focused leadership style, plus outstanding track record of delivering results, make him a perfect fit for Certus,” said Mike Givlin, CEO and co-founder of Certus.

The company entered the Florida market this month with the acquisition of Hoskins Pest Control.

Certus entered the pest control market in 2019 with its first two acquisitions: Mathis Exterminating in Puget Sound, Wash., and Eco Elite Pest Control in Seattle, Wash.

With the acquisition of Hoskins Pest Control, Certus now operates in Florida and Washington. The company expects to continue to grow in its existing markets and enter new markets in 2020.

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Sacramento CA

Arrow Exterminators promotes two within Florida operations team

Steve Bolden and Kenny Porter Sr. of Arrow Exterminators. PHOTO: ARROW EXTERMINATORS

Arrow Exterminators, based in Atlanta, Ga., has promoted two employees within the company’s operations team. Kenny Porter Sr. was promoted to regional VP of Northeast Florida and Steve Bolden was promoted to regional VP of Southwest Florida.

“We have aggressive plans to grow to $300 million in the next two years and $500 million in the next eight years while maintaining our unique entrepreneurial and family culture,” said Emily Thomas Kendrick, president and CEO of Arrow.

“The value of promoting leaders from within the organization who not only understand our business at all levels, but even more importantly, understand and embrace our culture can’t be overstated. We are thrilled to announce the promotions of Kenny Porter Sr. and Steve Bolden to our operations team.”

In his new role, Porter will oversee operations in Gainesville, Jacksonville, Ponte Vedra Beach, South Jacksonville, Tallahassee, Orange Park and St. Simons, Ga. He was most recently senior service center manager in Ponte Vedra Beach, Fla.

In the pest control industry for more than 18 years, Porter has spent 12 of them at Arrow. He started as a pest control service professional in the Midtown Atlanta service center.

Bolden was also most recently a senior service center manager, but in Port Charlotte, Fla. In his new position as regional VP of Southwest Florida, Steve will oversee operations in Englewood, Fort Myers, Naples and Port Charlotte.

Starting as a lawn service professional in 1996, Bolden’s tenure with Arrow spans 23 years. During his time as a perennial Premier and President’s Club Home Evaluator, he attended the trip 12 years in a row.

“Kenny and Steve are both wonderful leaders and with their strong work ethic, this role is a perfect fit and next step in their careers with Arrow,” said Tommy Giardino, senior VP of operations for Arrow. “As a family-owned company, we are proud to reward success and hard work internally.”

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Sacramento CA

Catchmaster: Live Cage Traps

IMAGE: CATCHMASTER

The cost-effective, humane Catchmaster live cage traps feature an integrated bait chamber that helps save you time in the field, the company says. The chamber allows you to bait without having to reach into the trap. The weather-resistant, anodized coating offers durability, reduces glare, and helps the trap blend into the environment. Three different sizes are available.

CatchmasterPro.com

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Sacramento CA