As an industry, we can embrace, adjust, and utilize training opportunities in new ways.
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Mold Remediation Baltimore
Thursday, April 30, 2020
Douglas Products adds VP of sales, business development manager
Joshua Farley
Douglas Products, a specialty products provider and an Altamont Capital Partners portfolio company, has hired Joshua Farley and Jeremy Jackson.
Farley joined the company VP of sales for the North American pest management division. He will oversee the sales team and report to Heather Kern, commercial leader.
“We are excited to have Joshua join our pest management sales team,” Kern said. “Joshua has a track record of working as part of a team to meet and exceed goals. His extensive experience will help us as we work to expand our support for customers using Vikane and ProFume gas fumigants.”
Farley has more than 29 years of experience in commercial sales and management. He was co-owner of Arthur Pest Control and later joined Memphis, Tenn.-based TruGreen. Most recently, he served as national commercial sales director for TruGreen, overseeing nine regions, including the newly acquired Action Pest Control.
Jeremy Jackson
“I am excited to join the Douglas Products team and lead this group of very tenured and knowledgeable product specialists into continued growth and opportunities,” Farley said.
Jackson, who will be reporting to Farley, joined as a business development manager to support pest management companies using Vikane and ProFume gas fumigants.
“Jeremy will provide support for Vikane and ProFume gas fumigant customers in the Midwest,” Kern said. “Our bed bug fumigation business continues to grow outside the drywood fumigation states, and it is exciting to be able to add a dedicated salesperson with fumigation expertise to serve our customers using Vikane to solve bed bug problems. Jeremy adds more than 20 years of fumigation experience to our field-based customer support team.”
His fumigation experience includes Action Pest Control, Univar (now Veseris) and most recently with United Phosphorus Limited, King of Prussia, Pa., where he was the fumigation business lead for North America.
Jackson holds a degree in business management from the University of Southern Indiana.
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from Pest Management Professional https://www.mypmp.net/2020/04/30/douglas-products-adds-vp-of-sales-business-development-manager/
Sacramento CA
Elevating Your Microbial Remediation Game
Three questions with Amy Siedlecki, of The Mold Reporters, shares her experiences over the years with how property restoration contractors can provide greater value to clients.
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Mold Remediation Baltimore
ServiceMaster acquires Decatur Pest Control
Decatur Pest Control has been acquired by ServiceMaster, based in Memphis, Tenn. The Potomac Co., San Juan, Puerto Rico, represented the Decatur, Ga.-based firm. The business of Decatur was primarily integrated into that of Conyers, Ga.-based Inspect All Services, a former client of Potomac that was acquired by ServiceMaster in April 2019. The Decatur Pest Control deal was finalized in late 2019; terms were not disclosed.
Founded in 2007 by Dave Ryan, Decatur serves both its eponymous city and the Atlanta metro markets. The deal let Ryan retire from the industry, and his 17 employees have since joined ServiceMaster. He notes the experience has been a positive one.
“Even after the purchase transaction concluded, Paul and Potomac continue to advise me on the personal financial impact,” Ryan said, referring to Potomac Managing Director Paul Giannamore. “And after a long. satisfying career in the pest control industry, I am looking forward to exploring some new and exciting interests in retirement. I know my team is in good hands with the Inspect All Services team at ServiceMaster.”
The acquisition is one of several completed by ServiceMaster in recent months. The company also purchased two Crazy Frog Pest Control branches in Idaho; Binghamton, N.Y.-based Burke Pest Control, Greenville, S.C.-based Gregory Pest Solutions; South Elgin, Ill.-based McCloud Services; and Tamaqua, Pa.-based Seitz Brothers Exterminating. And through ServiceMaster’s subsidiary, Terminix International, also based in Memphis, recent acquisitions include Florida-based Neotec Pest Management and Neotec Pest Elimination; Morehead, Ky.-based Lytle’s Termite & Pest Control; and Desert Pacific Exterminators, Yucca Valley, Calif.
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from Pest Management Professional https://www.mypmp.net/2020/04/30/servicemaster-acquires-decatur-pest-control/
Sacramento CA
BPCA launches new legal helpline and video calls for its members
The British Pest Control Association has teamed up with law firm Shakespeare Martineau to offer a free legal helpline and video chats for members who are concerned about the impact of COVID-19 on their business.
from SmartBlog https://www.pestmagazine.co.uk/en/news/posts/2020/april/bpca-launches-new-legal-helpline-and-video-calls-for-its-members
Pest Control Pros
from SmartBlog https://www.pestmagazine.co.uk/en/news/posts/2020/april/bpca-launches-new-legal-helpline-and-video-calls-for-its-members
Pest Control Pros
Wednesday, April 29, 2020
Target: ‘The Rat Pack’
IMAGE: TARGET SPECIALTY PRODUCTS
As the exclusive distributor of both Yard Gard’s new Rat Dust and 1st Defence’s Bug Coasters, Target Specialty Products presents “The Rat Pack”: Professionals sprinkle the pesticide-free Rat Dust in a Coaster; rats will explore the discreet device, and then will be repelled by the Dust’s formula, lasting for weeks on end. Visit online to learn how to save 20 percent on your order. Rat Dust can also be applied under trash cans, pet bowls, in attics and crawlspaces, and in other hard-to-reach areas. The 4-inch-round Bug Coasters are also ideal for crawling insect control and monitoring.
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from Pest Management Professional https://www.mypmp.net/2020/04/30/target-the-rat-pack/
Sacramento CA
Ask the Expert: Best Practices for Soft Contents Cleaning
Michael Pinto walks through tried and true soft contents cleaning processes from start to finish - including the packout, safety, avoiding cross-contamination, innovations in soft contents cleaning, and more.
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Giant hornets: See something, say something
In December, the first Asian giant hornet (Vespa mandarinia) was sighted in the state of Washington. But researchers knew it wasn’t alone.
Because this invasive species regularly feasts on large insects, including native wasps and bees, a team comprised of researchers at the Washington State Department of Agriculture (WSDA) and Washington State University (WSU) has launched a program that asks the public to report any and all sighting of the hornet. They are hard to miss, considering they are the world’s largest hornet, clocking in at more than 2 inches in length. The sting’s neurotoxin can be lethal to humans if multiple stings are received — and each hornet is capable of multiple stings. The WSDA estimates it has nearly seven times the amount of venom as the domestic honey bee. And a group of 30 giant hornets can destroy a hive of 30,000 bees in less than four hours.
A WSU article notes that “regular beekeeping suits are poor protection against this hornet’s sting,” so the team has ordered special reinforced suits from China.
According to an article from WSU, it is assumed — but not verified — that the hornet arrived in North America through international cargo. “The Asian giant hornet’s life cycle begins in April, when queens emerge from hibernation, feed on plant sap and fruit, and look for an underground dens to build their nests. Once established, colonies grow and send out workers to find food and prey,” the article notes.
The team urges the public to download the “WA Invasives” smartphone app to easily record photos and details of any sightings. People can also give information by phone (800-443-6684), email (pestprogram@agr.wa.gov), or online at Agr.wa.gov/hornets.
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from Pest Management Professional https://www.mypmp.net/2020/04/29/giant-hornets-see-something-say-something/
Sacramento CA
Restoration 1® and bluefrog Plumbing + Drain® Announces Strategic Investment
The deal marks an investment with the award-winning property restoration company and its sister brand, a growing plumbing franchise, at a time when essential businesses continue to grow in the recession-resistant sectors they serve. Terms of the deal were not disclosed.
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Mold Remediation Baltimore
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Mold Remediation Baltimore
BPCA to run free webinar on ant control
The British Pest Control Association has announced that it will hold its next free webinar, which will target ant control for pest professionals, on Wednesday, May 13.
from SmartBlog https://www.pestmagazine.co.uk/en/news/posts/2020/april/bpca-to-run-free-webinar-on-ant-control
Pest Control Pros
from SmartBlog https://www.pestmagazine.co.uk/en/news/posts/2020/april/bpca-to-run-free-webinar-on-ant-control
Pest Control Pros
Tuesday, April 28, 2020
Syngenta: Advion Insect Granular Bait
IMAGE: SYNGENTA
As the latest addition to the Advion brand family, Advion Insect granular bait features a new bait matrix that is attractive to target perimeter pests such as ants, cockroaches, crickets and silverfish, resulting in greater bait consumption. Featuring Syngenta’s MetaActive effect and horizontal transfer, it offers highly targeted, effective control in areas that can’t always be sprayed, such as large mulch beds. The bait is available in a 1-pound shaker bottle, ideal for perimeter band or spot treatments, and a 12-pound bag for higher-volume needs. Free samples are available.
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from Pest Management Professional https://www.mypmp.net/2020/04/29/syngenta-advion-insect-granular-bait/
Sacramento CA
Take part in Bayer’s wasp control survey
Bayer has launched a new survey, based around wasp control, and will use feedback to help decide which areas to develop, improve and how best to support the pest manager.
from SmartBlog https://www.pestmagazine.co.uk/en/news/posts/2020/april/take-part-in-bayer-s-wasp-control-survey
Pest Control Pros
from SmartBlog https://www.pestmagazine.co.uk/en/news/posts/2020/april/take-part-in-bayer-s-wasp-control-survey
Pest Control Pros
Hoffman’s ‘BugsBee’ helps celebrate Earth Day
On April 22, the 50th anniversary of Earth Day, Mantua, N.J.-based Hoffman’s Exterminating Co. marked the occasion with the “Earth Day with BugsBee” event.
“A lot of our staff is currently working from home, but we did have some techs, sales managers and customer relations employees help throughout the day,” Marketing Partnership Manager Abby Cohen tells Pest Management Professional. “We visited our Malvern, Pa.; Northfield, N.J.; and Mantua, N.J.; offices.”
With none other than President and CEO Bill Hoffman, ACE, inside the company mascot “BugsBee” suit, the respective staffs stood outside each location to hand out fly swatters, seed packages and honey sticks. Cohen says the goal was to “build morale throughout the community, aiming for some normality.” She adds that the public responded positively, with smiles and waves: “Some even honked or applauded as they drove by.”
Hoffman’s has been family-owned and -operated since 1990. The company counts three large healthcare facilities among its accounts, along with hundreds of local healthcare workers residentially. In late March, Hoffman told PMP that he and his team decided to donate pest control service to them through at least May 1. He created a leave-behind piece for customers (click here to view as a PDF). He strongly urges his pest control colleagues to do the same, as well as to donate personal protective equipment (PPE) and sanitizing products and services to healthcare facilities in their markets.
As noted in the March article, Hoffman reminded colleagues that during the pandemic, while he’s a small company, he has been putting forth “all efforts in keeping my family, employees, community and our health care workers safe. Join me and do all you can.”
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from Pest Management Professional https://www.mypmp.net/2020/04/28/hoffmans-bugsbee-helps-celebrate-earth-day/
Sacramento CA
Smithereen delivers meals to healthcare workers
Smithereen’s Rich Zaleski, left, and McWethy’s Jimmy Koklas prepare to load meals for delivery. IMAGE: SMITHEREEN PEST MANAGEMENT SERVICES
Smithereen Pest Management Services, through its company-wide volunteer program Smithereen SELECT, is helping support frontline hospital workers during the 2020 COVID-19 pandemic. The Chicago, Ill.-based firm partnered with local businesses McWethy’s Tavern in Romeoville, Ill., and Bartolini’s Restaurant in Midlothian, Ill. to deliver box meals to their hospital customers treating COVID-19 patients. Hospitals in the first phase included:
- Amita Health Adventist Medical Center Bolingbrook
- Amita Health Adventist Medical Center Hinsdale
- Amita Health St. Joseph Medical Center
- OSF Little Company of Mary Medical Center in Evergreen Park
Smithereen donated more than 100 meals in the first weeks of April 2020, and plans on a second stage of meal delivery for customers not only in Illinois, but in Kansas and Missouri. The company itself was founded in 1888 and has fourth-generation family owners. It offers both commercial and residential services in seven states, including Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Wisconsin, Iowa, Missouri and Kansas.
The Smithereen SELECT program was founded in 2001, and the acronym stands for “Smithereen/Environment/Life/Education/Community/Teamwork.” Its mission is to organize and focus Smithereen’s employees toward causes that mirror the company’s values.
According to the company, “Smithereen has developed charitable opportunities for all employees, with many non-profit organizations that provide various community services such as healthcare, housing, and environmental improvements in the communities it serves.
“The SELECT program is a training ground for not only employees to sharpen their customer service skills, but also for all levels of employees to work together in partnership. These are opportunities to advance their ability to work as a team, as well as to become better service leaders and improve our communities.”
Read more COVID-19 coverage here: MyPMP.net/COVID-19
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Sacramento CA
Certus purchases Dominion Pest Control
LOGO: CERTUS
Certus Pest has purchased Seattle, Wash.-based Dominion Pest Control. Completed April 7, this acquisition continues Certus’ expansion throughout the Pacific Northwest.
Founded in 2007, Dominion provides pest management services to the Seattle metro area. The company has 12 employees, all of whom are staying with Certus.
Dominion is an active member of the Washington State Pest Management Association (WSPMA). Dominion President and Founder Tony Wurst is a past president of the WSPMA.
“I have enjoyed building a small business and the relationships that developed both within the industry and, more importantly, within Dominion’s team. That said, it is no secret I’ve had other career dreams and aspirations,” Wurst said.
Wurst says he met Certus Co-founder and CEO Mike Givlin in 2019. “A seed was planted that there may be a chance to set up the Dominion team for long-term success while freeing me up to pursue a career in law,” Wurst added.
Certus entered the pest control market in 2019 in the Pacific Northwest with its first two acquisitions: Mathis Exterminating in Puget Sound, Wash., and Eco Elite Pest Control in Seattle, Wash.
“As I watched Certus operate in the Seattle area and saw their People First philosophy in action, I was very impressed. Further, their support for the WSPMA was fantastic,” Wurst said.
PCO M&A Specialists (a division of PCO Bookkeepers) acted as exclusive financial advisor to Dominion Pest Control.
“Tony has built a very successful company in the Seattle area and we were very flattered that Tony chose Certus to entrust his employees with as he moves forward with fulfilling his lifelong dream of being a lawyer,” Givlin said.
Certus now operates in Washington and Florida. The company expects to continue to grow in its existing markets and enter new markets in 2020.
The company entered the Florida market at the beginning of 2020 with the acquisition of Hoskins Pest Control, which provides services to Sarasota, Manatee, Charlotte and Lee counties in southwest Florida. Most recently, Certus acquired Cape Coral, Fla.-based Strategic Pest Control of Southwest Florida.
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from Pest Management Professional https://www.mypmp.net/2020/04/28/certus-purchases-dominion-pest-control/
Sacramento CA
Mosquito bacterial control program reports continued success
Aedes aegypti. Photo: James Gathany, CDC
It’s a story at least three years in the making, but a research company affiliated with Google is now reporting successful mosquito elimination at three California sites, thanks to introducing lethal bacteria to the male mosquito population.
In May 2017, we reported that the Florida Keys Mosquito Control District was testing a new way to control yellow fever mosquito (Aedes aegypti) populations by releasing bacteria-infected male mosquitoes. The Wolbachia bacteria is considered to be harmless to humans, but when infected male mosquitoes mate with females, the resulting eggs do not hatch.
Nearly two years later, the April 22 issue of the Journal of Medical Entomology found a reduction of female Asian tiger mosquitoes by more than 75 percent as a result of a study in Florida. At that time, we reported that “the researchers in the study stress that this biological approach should be viewed as a tool in the integrated pest management toolbox, just one component of a more holistic strategy for control. They are now looking to fine-tune the approach, timing the release of the infected males with larvicide application to optimize control and keep down costs and larvicide use.”
Now, the company that originally developed the bacteria-infected mosquitoes, MosquitoMate, is working with Verily Life Sciences, owned by Google parent Alphabet Inc. The team is reporting trial results from three sites in California’s (admittedly arid climate) Central Valley, and it’s a promising number: 93 percent of female mosquitoes have been suppressed. The report appears in the journal Nature Biotechnology’s April 6 issue.
According to a Bloomberg article on the topic, “Verily is also running coronavirus triage and testing in parts of California. Bradley White, the lead scientist on the Debug initiative, said mosquito suppression is even more important during the pandemic, so that outbreaks of mosquito-borne diseases such as dengue fever don’t further overwhelm hospitals.”
Verily is currently partnering with Singapore’s National Environment Agency, and according to the Bloomberg article, looking at partnering with agencies in South America and the Caribbean.
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from Pest Management Professional https://www.mypmp.net/2020/04/28/mosquito-bacterial-control-program-reports-continued-success/
Sacramento CA
NPMA opens registration to July Academy
LOGO: NATIONAL PEST MANAGEMENT ASSOCIATION
After careful consideration, the National Pest Management Association (NPMA) has decided to proceed with its annual NPMA Academy event this summer. In its announcement, the Fairfax, Va.-based organization noted that it will continue to monitor the situation the latest developments from the coronavirus, and provide updates as needed.
This year’s Academy takes place July 14-16 at the Omni Championsgate in Orlando, Fla. With premiere sponsorship by Corteva AgriScience, the team-based event is designed to advance the professional and business development of emerging industry leaders in a hands-on, interactive environment. Other confirmed sponsors include refreshments sponsor Control Solutions Inc., as well as BASF, Bayer, FMC and Syngenta.
Highlights from Academy 2019 can be found here. This year’s theme is superheroes, and costumes are encouraged.
Registration is open now, and NPMA guests will receive discounted room rates starting at $174. Attendees can book online or call the Omni Reservations Team at 800-843-6664 and reference NPMA to receive the group rates. Reserve your room by June 19, 2020, to receive the discounted room rate. After June 19, rooms and rates are subject to change.
In addition, the NPMA is offering a one-day Association Leadership Retreat at the Omni Championsgate on July 13. According to a news release, “This forum will give you an opportunity to network with your peers, learn tips and tricks from experts in the field on how to effectively provide board leadership and governance, how to recruit and retain members, and enhance state conferences and member benefits.” Registration can be found here.
ABOUT THE NPMA
Founded in 1933 as the National Association of Exterminators and Fumigators (NAEF), then the National Pest Control Association (NPCA), the National Pest Management Association is a non-profit organization with more than 5,500 members from around the world to support the pest management industry’s commitment to the protection of public health, food and property.
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from Pest Management Professional https://www.mypmp.net/2020/04/28/npma-opens-registration-to-july-academy/
Sacramento CA
Pest controllers warn people not to confuse bees with wasps
The sudden increase in temperature and sunshine has meant an explosion of blossom and noticeable increase in bees going about their work. There has also been a worrying surge in calls to pest controllers from people confusing bees with wasps and asking for treatment.
from SmartBlog https://www.pestmagazine.co.uk/en/news/posts/2020/april/pest-controllers-warn-people-not-to-confuse-bees-with-wasps
Pest Control Pros
from SmartBlog https://www.pestmagazine.co.uk/en/news/posts/2020/april/pest-controllers-warn-people-not-to-confuse-bees-with-wasps
Pest Control Pros
Monday, April 27, 2020
Lytx: Fleet Solutions
IMAGE: LYTX
Transform your fleet operations with the power of video: Lytx offers a flexible stack of fleet tools to help you improve safety, efficiency and productivity. Its video, analytics and management solutions are designed to help protect your fleet and grow your business. Lytx’s solutions are backed by more than 20 years of innovation in fleet technology, for companies of all sizes.
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from Pest Management Professional https://www.mypmp.net/2020/04/28/lytx-fleet-solutions/
Sacramento CA
Xactware Requests SARS-CoV Pricing Feedback from Contractors
It is imperative that restoration contractors provide this information so that pricing will be updated with current information.
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Spring start-ups: Predicting pest pressures
IMAGE: NATIONAL PEST MANAGEMENT ASSOCIATION
Spring is a time for new beginnings, and that includes a fresh start for insect pest populations. Social insects like bees, wasps and termites have been overwintering as single fertilized queens or as colonies with reduced activity. Whether new nests are being initiated or there is a colony revitalization, springtime means these insects are ready to begin foraging and reproducing.
Foraging and nest expansion can impact our clients. Pest management professionals (PMPs) should embrace strategies to interrupt nature’s expansion plan and institute proactive control. Now is the best time to initiate management before populations increase in size and are more difficult to manage. This principle is true for a variety of pests, from ants to rodents to stored product pests.
Before pest populations rebound and establish, PMPs should begin control efforts. Timing can mean everything when it comes to reducing client callbacks and complaints. Consider the following:
- Knowing the history of a client’s past pest pressures will help in determining what pests might be reappearing this spring, and help direct an inspection. Commercial facilities should have those historical records available. In absence of formal documentation, the client can be surveyed for that information — but regardless, a thorough inspection will be required.
- A variety of tools can be useful during an inspection, including bait cards. This tool is often underutilized when it comes to inspecting for ants and their potential impact on a structure. Bait cards can be made using a business card or index card and adding food lures based on known or suspected food preferences of the ants in the area. Honey, dead insects, bacon grease and/or peanut butter (if the client does not prohibit due to allergen control plans) are some typical lures used. Placing multiple cards out in areas of concern can provide information regarding species and potential for pest activity. These are placed on the exterior of the structure, but can also be used indoors. Place cards out at the start of the service; check and remove them before the end of the service. PMPs should act based on what these quick-read monitors are showing.
- Use bait cards and other monitoring tools as early-warning signals of pest activity, and take action. Glue traps, with or without pheromones or lures, can be used for a variety of different pests. Another common monitor is the wood stake baiting monitors commonly used for termite control.
- Visually inspect eaves and other common areas where wasps and other stinging insects may build nests. It is easier to remove and/or treat the area of nest building when populations are low, rather than waiting until when these insects build up worker numbers and become a sting hazard.
- Technology is providing some new ways of predicting pest data. The National Pest Management Association (NPMA) has contracted with a firm, who through analyzing social media searches, develops geographic predictions for different seasonal pests. Although most data are aimed at homeowners, it can have some implications for commercial facilities as well. The NPMA publishes this data under the name “Bug Barometer.” Data for this spring in the Great Lakes region where I live, show warmer, wet conditions, with ticks and ants on the increase. Although the evidence is very anecdotal, pest activity around my household supports these predictions.
Patricia Hottel, BCE
- Several manufacturers of electronic, remote monitoring devices are developing systems — using data generated by their sensors — to predict pest populations. These forecasts can be for a wide geographic region or project trends specific to a client’s site. We may someday be able to prepare for seasonal pests based on an analysis of the data generated by these devices. The capability may be a few years off, but could provide valuable information in proactive pest management.
Contributor Patricia Hottel, BCE, is technical director for South Elgrin, Ill.-based McCloud Services. She can be reached at pathottel@mccloudservices.com.
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from Pest Management Professional https://www.mypmp.net/2020/04/27/spring-start-ups-predicting-pest-pressures/
Sacramento CA
Orkin adds incentive for new mosquito customer signups
LOGO: ORKIN
Now through May 31, Orkin Pest Control is donating $25 to the American Red Cross with every new mosquito service signup, up to $100,000. It is part of the Atlanta, Ga.-based company’s “Donating Blood Should Be Voluntary” campaign, to support the American Red Cross to help maintain a sufficient blood supply for the weeks and months to come.
“Mosquitoes are one of the world’s greatest public health threats,” said Frank Meek, BCE, technical services manager for Orkin’s parent company Rollins Inc., and a member of the Pest Management Professional magazine editorial advisory board. “While we typically think less about that in the U.S., the current pandemic may cause heightened concern over disease transmission.”
The campaign dovetails with the annual release of Orkin’s “Top 50 Mosquito Cities” list, which ranks metro areas by the number of mosquito customers served from April 1, 2019, to March 31, 2020. The list includes both residential and commercial treatments. Its list is as follows, noting the changes in ranking from the list released in 2019:
- Atlanta, Ga.
- Los Angeles, Calif. (+10)
- Washington, D.C.
- New York, N.Y. (-2)
- Chicago, Ill. (-1)
- Dallas-Ft. Worth, Texas
- Detroit, Mich.
- Charlotte, N.C. (+1)
- Philadelphia, Pa. (-1)
- Miami, Fla. (+4)
- Raleigh-Durham, N.C. (-1)
- Houston, Texas (-7)
- Memphis, Tenn. (+16)
- Richmond, Va. (+2)
- Minneapolis, Minn. (+12)
- Tampa, Fla. (+2)
- Nashville, Tenn.
- Baltimore, Md. (-3)
- Grand Rapids, Mich. (+10)
- Orlando, Fla. (+2)
- Boston, Mass. (-7)
- Indianapolis, Ind. (-3)
- Norfolk, Va. (-2)
- Phoenix, Ariz. (-13)
- Cleveland, Ohio (+8)
- St. Louis, Mo. (-6)
- Greenville, S.C. (-4)
- Tulsa, Okla. (-2)
- Mobile, Ala. (+7)
- New Orleans, La. (+2)
- Albany, N.Y. (-3)
- Knoxville, Tenn. (+7)
- Lafayette, La. (+1)
- West Palm Beach, Fla. (+8)
- Kansas City, Mo. (-10)
- San Francisco, Calif. (new to list)
- Burlington, N.Y. (-2)
- Austin, Texas
- Oklahoma City, Okla. (-8)
- Baton Rouge, La. (+7)
- Hartford, Conn. (+3)
- Denver, Colo. (-18)
- Cincinnati, Ohio (-3)
- Birmingham, Ala. (new to list)
- Jacksonville, Fla. (+1)
- Savannah, Ga. (-1)
- San Antonio, Texas (-6)
- Shreveport, La. (+4)
- Fort Wayne, Ind. (new to list)
- Madison, Wis. (-1)
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from Pest Management Professional https://www.mypmp.net/2020/04/27/orkin-adds-incentive-for-new-mosquito-customer-signups/
Sacramento CA
Paycheck Protection Program: SBA issues guidance
PHOTO: RRRAUM/ISTOCK / GETTY IMAGES PLUS/GETTY IMAGES
On April 26, the Small Business Administration (SBA), in consultation with the U.S. Department of the Treasury, released guidance in the form of a Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) Loans Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) page that the SBA will update regularly.
While informal, the guidance will be the governing rules for qualification and verification for funding, forgiveness and payback under the PPP.
As I have been advising friends and clients, the PPP was passed and implemented in such haste that it’s sure to be a calamity. Well, the first shoe has dropped. The Treasury Department has added stipulations that were not a requirement of borrowing when the first tranche of funds was made available. These stipulations are not only required to qualify for those who were shut out of the first round and are seeking funding under the second, they are retroactive to those who have already been approved and received their funds under the first tranche.
The guidance creates a safe harbor rule to pay back the money by May 7 if you reconsider your application and you decide you don’t qualify. If the money is returned by this date, you will get a “free pass” in terms of penalties and interest.
At issue is the certification that a borrower must have “current economic uncertainty [that] makes this loan request necessary to support the ongoing operations of the applicant.” Perhaps our pest management businesses are not being economically affected as immediately as bars, restaurants and bowling alleys are, but the COVID-19 crisis is a fluid situation and we don’t know how it will play out. In addition, during the initial shock, the government’s main concern was keeping people employed. Many companies took the PPP funds to continue employing people whom they would have otherwise laid off or furloughed immediately.
While the argument that we can’t tell how this situation will ultimately play out is valid, and that it would be difficult for the government to challenge certification at this point, the only way to prove the pandemic negatively impacted our businesses will be borne out in hindsight based on reduced revenue over time.
Since we can’t investigate the future, the Treasury Department has decided our businesses do not have uncertainty if we currently have liquidity (cash in the bank) or access to credit lines. The guidance creates a new eligibility test for PPP loans based on an applicant’s actual or potential access to cash. It says:
Borrowers must make this certification in good faith, taking into account their current business activity and their ability to access other sources of liquidity sufficient to support their ongoing operations in a manner that is not significantly detrimental to the business.
The guidance applies the above standard to “businesses owned by larger businesses.” However, the consensus among most lawyers and accountants is that this standard will be applied to all who have received funds under the program.
I am in no way suggesting anyone give back this PPP money without careful consideration, but it seems to me that this new liquidity requirement may exceed the intent of the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act) by adding a new eligibility rule that’s not addressed in the CARES Act. Also, the requirement doesn’t seem consistent with the law’s intent to maintain employment and have employers use the PPP loan proceeds to keep employees on the job. On top of all that, it does not provide clear guidance to applicants about how to apply the requirement. At some point, I believe the validity and enforceability of this new test will be challenged in court. In the meantime, disregard or ignore it at your own risk.
In any event, the key to ending up on the right side of this issue is to make absolutely sure you keep good records. If you need assistance, please contact PCO Bookkeepers.
Read more COVID-19 coverage here: MyPMP.net/COVID-19
You can reach GORDON, a managing member of PCO Bookkeepers and PCO M&A Specialists, at dan@pcobookkeepers.com.
The post Paycheck Protection Program: SBA issues guidance appeared first on Pest Management Professional.
from Pest Management Professional https://www.mypmp.net/2020/04/27/paycheck-protection-program-sba-issues-guidance/
Sacramento CA
PelGar USA: RodentStop
PHOTO: PELGAR USA
PelGar USA is the exclusive U.S. supplier of RodentStop, which can seal seams, cracks and holes to prevent entry from rodents and other pests. Use the waterproof, paintable product in brickwork, cement, joints and expansion joints — even in steel, cast-iron and PVC recesses and ducts. Sewer connections and electric cable ducts are also prime places. RodentStop is a barrier pest control paste only, containing no biocides or repellents. If there’s a gnawed opening, put a stop to it with RodentStop.
The post PelGar USA: RodentStop appeared first on Pest Management Professional.
from Pest Management Professional https://www.mypmp.net/2020/04/27/pelgar-usa-rodentstop/
Sacramento CA
Government announces COVID-19 testing for key workers
The government has today announced that key workers who are showing symptoms of Covid-19 will be eligible to apply for a test.
from SmartBlog https://www.pestmagazine.co.uk/en/news/posts/2020/april/government-announces-covid-19-testing-for-key-workers
Pest Control Pros
from SmartBlog https://www.pestmagazine.co.uk/en/news/posts/2020/april/government-announces-covid-19-testing-for-key-workers
Pest Control Pros
Edinburgh's rat population is 'out of control'
A Scotland-based pest management professional has reported that Edinburgh's rat population is “out of control” with rodents gathering in gardens and building “burrow upon burrow”.
from SmartBlog https://www.pestmagazine.co.uk/en/news/posts/2020/april/edinburghs-rat-population-is-out-of-control
Pest Control Pros
from SmartBlog https://www.pestmagazine.co.uk/en/news/posts/2020/april/edinburghs-rat-population-is-out-of-control
Pest Control Pros
Friday, April 24, 2020
EnviroPest holds 2020 Day of Service
Photos include Billy Gray, Kris Briggs, Jo Chen and Marcos Mendez. PHOTO: ENVIROPEST
EnviroPest donates time, services and funds to worthy causes throughout the year. But for one day a year, since 2016, President Kevin Lemasters, ACE, closes the office specifically for the entire team to go out into the community and serve one of the non-profit associations with which he Loveland, Colo.-based firm is affiliated.
“This year proved to be challenging, considering the limitations on the number of people in one place at a time,” admits Lemasters.
But the team got creative and persevered. Working with three different agencies, on April 22, EnviroPest coordinated pick-up and drop-off opportunities to get essential items like food, diapers — and a perhaps less-essential-but-still-important-to-the-recipient couch — to those in need. The team followed protocol like wearing masks and social distancing, to protect themselves and others.
EnviroPest’s mission statement is “We exist to serve,” and Lemasters notes that the annual Day of Service is a great reminder of that.
“During this challenging time, it was important to continue to find ways to serve the communities in which we do business,” he says. “And with business a little slower than usual, we are utilizing staff to assist with other needs in the community to bring value to others.”
As Lemasters noted on a previous Day of Service outing, “our goal is to select local non-profits that we may already donate services to or financially support as a company. Our community partnerships are a valuable part of our culture.”
Family-owned and -operated in northern Colorado since 1965, EnviroPest offers residential and commercial pest control services, as well as bed bug removal; mosquito and tick control; termite control; and wildlife removal, including raccoons, squirrels, bats, rats, birds and mice.
The post EnviroPest holds 2020 Day of Service appeared first on Pest Management Professional.
from Pest Management Professional https://www.mypmp.net/2020/04/24/enviropest-holds-2020-day-of-service/
Sacramento CA
Ask Annissa: How is Your Restoration Team Doing Right Now?
Annissa is putting aside the logistics and physical questions about doing coronavirus cleaning, and she's getting personal. She poses an important questions: how is your restoration crew doing right now? How are you caring for them?
from Subscribe to R&R Magazine's RSS Feed https://www.randrmagonline.com/articles/88907-ask-annissa-how-is-your-restoration-crew-doing-right-now
Mold Remediation Baltimore
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Mold Remediation Baltimore
Catchmaster: Ovi-Catch AGO Mosquito Trap
The Ovi-Catch is a low-cost, easy-to-use, mosquito surveillance tool proven effective by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the company says. The low-maintenance trap does not require electricity or pesticides. It’s designed to capture gravid female mosquitoes looking for a suitable site to lay eggs. Trapped mosquitoes lead to disrupted natural breeding cycles. They indicate the presence of natural, often hidden breeding sites, and allow testing for the presence of disease.
The post Catchmaster: Ovi-Catch AGO Mosquito Trap appeared first on Pest Management Professional.
from Pest Management Professional https://www.mypmp.net/2020/04/24/catchmaster-ovi-catch-ago-mosquito-trap/
Sacramento CA
Practice IPM for carpenter bees
Dr. Cisse Spragins, CEO/founder of Rockwell Labs
Carpenter bees are a persistent pest in certain parts of the country. The most important step in integrated pest management (IPM) for carpenter bees is to seal wood if possible, since they are much less likely to bore into sealed wood.
For control, exempt botanicals are an excellent choice for a few reasons. First, they are fast-acting and highly repellent. This provides quick kill and makes treated areas undesirable for reinfestation. In addition, they are not subject to impervious surface application restrictions, so there is freedom to apply over large areas on structures if needed.
A wettable dust can be dusted directly into holes in dry form, and then diluted and sprayed over surfaces in liquid form for long-lasting kill and repellency. Seal holes with caulk or plugs after treatment. Remember that wettable powder products can leave a light visible film of powder when dry, so be mindful — particularly on darker surfaces — and test first.
The post Practice IPM for carpenter bees appeared first on Pest Management Professional.
from Pest Management Professional https://www.mypmp.net/2020/04/24/practice-ipm-for-carpenter-bees/
Sacramento CA
Social distancing warning to employers from the HSE
The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has warned employers it will hand out enforcement notices to those who do not comply with the two-metre social distancing rule in workplaces that remain open during the coronavirus outbreak.
from SmartBlog https://www.pestmagazine.co.uk/en/news/posts/2020/april/social-distancing-warning-to-employers-from-the-hse
Pest Control Pros
from SmartBlog https://www.pestmagazine.co.uk/en/news/posts/2020/april/social-distancing-warning-to-employers-from-the-hse
Pest Control Pros
Terminix director adopts green Mohican to raise funds for NHS charity
Gareth Davies, specialist services, procurement & innovations director at Terminix UK, has launched a hair-raising initiative to support a leading NHS charity.
from SmartBlog https://www.pestmagazine.co.uk/en/news/posts/2020/april/terminix-director-adopts-green-mohican-to-raise-funds-for-nhs-charity
Pest Control Pros
from SmartBlog https://www.pestmagazine.co.uk/en/news/posts/2020/april/terminix-director-adopts-green-mohican-to-raise-funds-for-nhs-charity
Pest Control Pros
Thursday, April 23, 2020
ACV Enviro on Front Lines of COVID-19 Outbreak Decontaminating & Getting People Back to Work
ACV Enviro expands services with new PPR Program: Protect, Proactively Disinfect, React- Emergency Decontamination.
from Subscribe to R&R Magazine's RSS Feed https://www.randrmagonline.com/articles/88905-acv-enviro-on-front-lines-of-covid-19-outbreak-decontaminating-getting-people-back-to-work
Mold Remediation Baltimore
from Subscribe to R&R Magazine's RSS Feed https://www.randrmagonline.com/articles/88905-acv-enviro-on-front-lines-of-covid-19-outbreak-decontaminating-getting-people-back-to-work
Mold Remediation Baltimore
Phoenix Solutions Announces Partnership With AiME
AiME and Phoenix Solutions formally inked the agreement to integrate AiME' AI Estimate Review & Compliance Management Software into the PHX Restore Job Management Platform.
from Subscribe to R&R Magazine's RSS Feed https://www.randrmagonline.com/articles/88904-phoenix-solutions-announces-partnership-with-aime
Mold Remediation Baltimore
from Subscribe to R&R Magazine's RSS Feed https://www.randrmagonline.com/articles/88904-phoenix-solutions-announces-partnership-with-aime
Mold Remediation Baltimore
RestoreUnited Offering Software FREE to Restoration Contractors during Pandemic
Software provider will continue to offer our services and system at no charge to all restoration companies, including current clients, through at least the end of May.
from Subscribe to R&R Magazine's RSS Feed https://www.randrmagonline.com/articles/88903-restoreunited-offering-software-free-to-restoration-contractors-during-pandemic
Mold Remediation Baltimore
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Mold Remediation Baltimore
Communication with the Carriers is Key to Successful Claim Experience
Three questions with Raymond Tittmann, of Tittmann Weix, shares his perspectives on the unfolding response to COVID-19 as an insurance coverage and complex litigation specialist.
from Subscribe to R&R Magazine's RSS Feed https://www.randrmagonline.com/articles/88902-communication-with-the-carriers-is-key-to-successful-claim-experience
Mold Remediation Baltimore
from Subscribe to R&R Magazine's RSS Feed https://www.randrmagonline.com/articles/88902-communication-with-the-carriers-is-key-to-successful-claim-experience
Mold Remediation Baltimore
Brandenburg joins NHS fight against COVID-19
Leading fly trap manufacturer Brandenburg has embraced the challenges of lockdown by producing and donating face safety visors to NHS healthcare workers across seven healthcare centres in the UK.
from SmartBlog https://www.pestmagazine.co.uk/en/news/posts/2020/april/brandenburg-joins-nhs-fight-against-covid-19
Pest Control Pros
from SmartBlog https://www.pestmagazine.co.uk/en/news/posts/2020/april/brandenburg-joins-nhs-fight-against-covid-19
Pest Control Pros
Mosquito management tips from the pros
PHOTO: GORDZAM/ISTOCK / GETTY IMAGES PLUS/GETTY IMAGES
Pest management professionals (PMPs) who offer mosquito control services share their advice.
Eliminate standing water, where mosquitoes breed.
Thin out vegetation and reduce shaded areas.
— Chad Betts, Manager, Betts Pest Control, Wichita, Kan.
Charge accordingly. Trust in your service, and stand behind it 100 percent.
Set customer expectations up front. A PMP’s primary job should be habitat reduction. Customer service should be the top priority.
— Yoel Gutierrez, Owner, Mosquito Joe of Miami, Miami, Fla.
Inspect, inspect, inspect, and locate as many potential breeding areas as possible.
Adding mosquito control services to general pest control plans is a huge opportunity. You already have earned your customer’s trust, and adding the ability to infiltrate the war against mosquitoes adds value.
— Jason Garney, CEO, Attention Pest Solutions, Ballston Spa, N.Y.
Be diligent when it comes to wind and weather conditions. Consult your areas’ BeeCheck and DriftWatch mapping tools for any nearby bee hives or sensitive plants that may have pollinators.
— Doug Foster, President, Burt’s Termite & Pest Control, Columbus, Ind.
Cancel appointments if rain is in the forecast. Most customers do not understand the chemistry of the products PMPs use, and feel they wasted their money if it rains a couple of hours after a treatment.
Stay safe. Wear chemical-approved gloves and safety goggles when mixing and agitating your mosquito control solution.
Adjust the calibration of the flow rate for different targets throughout your mosquito control application. There is no set “run and gun” for every application; too much costs money and wastes product, and too little is a rip-off and gives insufficient treatment.
— Joseph Pfaff, President and CEO, Joey’s Elite Pest Control, Harvest, Ala.
Keep up with regulatory challenges for mosquito control by joining your local and state pest control industry associations, as well as the National Pest Management Association. They will help keep you up-to-date on all the proposed bills and any new bills that have passed.
— Tom Drapeau, President, Freedom Pest Control, Merrimac, Mass.
The post Mosquito management tips from the pros appeared first on Pest Management Professional.
from Pest Management Professional https://www.mypmp.net/2020/04/23/mosquito-management-tips-from-the-pros/
Sacramento CA
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