Hemlock Trees in Landscaping and Gardens

by Nancy Penrose

Hemlock is the common name of the Tsuga, a member of the pine family and conifer genus. When the tree’s leaves are crushed, they smell like the poison hemlock plant (the plant that killed Socrates). However, unlike the plant, the tree is not poisonous.

Hemlocks thrive where there is moisture and cool temperatures, including areas with snow. They are considered medium-size trees, and can grow to almost 200 ft. in height. The bark of the tree, which has a scaly appearance with deep furrows, ranges in color from a dark, charcoal grey to reddish brown.

The hemlock’s wood is made into pulp, and its bark is used for tanning leather. Tea can be made from the tree’s needles. Hemlocks are also used in landscaping and gardens.

There are several species of hemlock trees, four of which can be found in North America. The Pacific Northwest is home to two types of hemlock, the mountain Hemlock (Tsuga metensiana) and the Western Hemlock (Tsuga heterophylla).

The mountain hemlock, also called the black hemlock and hemlock spruce, is an evergreen coniferous tree that mostly grows at high altitudes. It is a small, slender tree with beautifully layered branches that can grow tall as well as low and sprawling like a shrub.

The mountain hemlock can be found in Canada, British Columbia, Alaska, Washington, Oregon, California, Idaho and Montana.

The crown of the mountain hemlock is slender with a cone shape. It has needle-like leaves that are blue-green in color, as well as small cones that can grow from 1 to 3 inches in length. Mountain hemlocks mature slowly with a lifespan that can exceed 800 years. They need sufficient water and prefer loose, well-drained soils. Although the mountain hemlock grows best in forested areas and on sheltered slopes, it can also be used as an ornamental tree. Mountain hemlocks can even be grown in containers.

The Western Hemlock, the state tree of Washington, is the largest species of hemlock. It has grayish-brown bark with moderate furrows. Like the mountain hemlock, it can be found in Canada, British Columbia, Alaska, Washington, Oregon, California, Idaho and Montana, usually in forests and coastal ranges at low altitudes.

Western hemlocks can live for more than 1200 years and can grow up to 230 feet tall. The Western hemlock’s crown has a broad, cone shape with needle-like leaves and cones. New growth droops at the top of the tree. The tree’s needles, which are almost flat, are yellow to green in color on top, and white on the bottom. The cones turn from a green and reddish purple to brown as they grow.

The cambium (tissue) of the tree is edible. Similar to the mountain hemlock, the Western hemlock’s bark is used for tanning. The tree’s needles can be chewed or used for tea. Indigenous populations also used the tree’s wood for carving.

If you are considering adding a hemlock tree to your landscape, consult a big tree specialist. An expert in big trees like the hemlock can help you chose the right type and shape of tree for your property, and advise on the tree installation.

Safety Inspector Details the Dangers of Foundation Damage

Cracked or Damaged Foundation Walls Can Compromise Structural Integrity

LOS ANGELES, CA: Julian Construction Inc., (http://julianconstruction.com/), a foundation repair and construction as well as general contractor company, is speaking out on the long and short term effects of foundation damage on a structure. Safety inspection expert Shawn Kyles described some of the common causes of foundation damage, as well as the importance of repairing the damage before more serious problems develop. Mr. Kyles has inspected over 15,000 structures in the course of his work in the construction business.

Mr. Kyles stated: “Homes are built on foundations that support the building’s structure. When a foundation is damaged, the entire house is often affected. Foundation problems can be divided into two categories; existing damage that needs to be addressed, and issues that can eventually lead to foundation trouble.” The full text of his statement, regarding the causes of and long-term effects of foundation damage, can be read here: http://julianconstruction.typepad.com/julian-construction-blog/2012/06/recognizing-the-signs-of-foundation-damage.html

Julian De La Torre, founder and owner of Julian Construction, Inc., stated: “Keeping up the maintenance of a home’s foundation is an important part of home’s maintenance. If a home is regularly inspected it can actually reduce costs overall as problems which could lead to serious damage are then addressed early. A foundation inspection can be scheduled with our company for free, but the foundation repair costs for repairing a collapsed foundation wall can be very expensive.”

Julian Construction owns its own company and is built on a “no middlemen” model – no salesmen, no subcontractors. When you work with Julian Construction you get the principals of the company and workers of Julian Construction under your home. The result is the highest quality work at affordable prices. They can be contacted by phone at 323 733-3377, by fax at 323 733-4477 or via their website, www.julianconstruction.com. You can see tips and advice about home foundations on their blog, at http://julianconstruction.com/blog/

Older Homes Susceptible to Foundation Disrepair

Many American Homes in Danger of Foundation Problems According to Foundation Expert

LOS ANGELES, CA: Julian Construction, Inc., (http://julianconstruction.com/), a foundation construction and foundation repair company in Southern California, has determined, after study of the housing market in America, an alarming trend where many home foundations may be in danger of foundation problems. Specifically, older homes (such as those built prior to 1940) have been noted as having greater incidence of foundation problems than more modern homes. The company strongly urges any homeowner who suspects or encounters indication of foundation problems to get the structure inspected before more serious damage develops.

Mr. Shawn Kyles, a professional structure inspection specialist of over 10 years, stated: “Approximately one-third of all U.S. houses were built over 55 years ago. These older homes encompass a wide variety of architectural styles ranging from contemporary to historic, including A-frames, American foursquare, colonials, bungalows, arts and crafts, Tudors, Cape Cod, Italianate, Queen Anne, Georgian, Victorian and Greek revival. Small or large, simple or complex, older houses are admired by fans nationwide for their beauty, character, design details and sturdiness. An older home that has been properly built will usually have considerable longevity. This includes many of the home’s critical components such as its foundation.

However, when an older home’s foundation has been incorrectly laid, it can result in problems that get worse over time and eventually compromise the building’s structural integrity. Many homes built prior to 1940 often have foundation problems due to the lack of building regulations and standards, as well as the use of improper equipment and low-quality materials.”

Julian De La Torre, owner and founder of Julian Construction, Inc., stated: “There can be a lot of foundation problems with older homes, not in every single case but certainly more often. It is always a good idea to have an older home regularly inspected, that way any foundation issues that come up are handled quickly. If foundation problems are not handled quickly, then an older home can develop problems that seriously threaten the structure and could make the house collapse. It is always safest to keep a home’s foundation well maintained.”

Julian Construction owns its own company and is built on a “no middlemen” model – no salesmen, no subcontractors. When you work with Julian Construction you get the principals of the company and workers of Julian Construction under your home. The result is the highest quality work at affordable prices. They can be contacted by phone at 323 733-3377, by fax at 323 733-4477 or via their website, www.julianconstruction.com. You can see tips and advice about home foundations on their blog, at http://julianconstruction.com/blog/

Real Estate Company Obtains Tax Exemption on New Company Plane

Company Assisted By Aero & Marine Tax Professionals in Recent Tax Case

SACRAMENTO, CA: Aero & Marine Tax Professionals, (http://aeromarinetaxpros.com/) an aircraft tax specialist firm in Northern California, recently assisted a California real estate company in supporting a claim for a use / sales tax exemption involving the purchase of a Cirrus SR20 airplane. It saved them around $13,500.00 off the purchase price.

An executive from the company stated: “We have rental property and real estate in Nevada, going back and forth. Purchasing the aircraft was a lifestyle and time issue. Driving to Bullhead City is a nine hour experience. Flying there is two hours and fifteen minutes. It’s a quality of ownership, in a lot of cases. A flight instructor friend of mine recommended Aero & Marine Tax Professionals. There are things I could do with that money that are far more valuable to me than paying the taxes. I don’t feel that the state spends my money as wisely as I do. I measured all the different ways it could work out, based on getting the exemption, or not getting the exemption. It looked like it was a good financial decision to pursue getting the exemption.

Working with Aero & Marine’s staff was awesome. I just followed the instructions they gave me, and every time they needed something I responded. Everything worked out exactly the way they said it would as long as I followed the instructions, and did things in the order that they recommended. The instructions were very clear and well put out. I had a couple questions, but they were always good at clearing them up. The original packet they gave me covered at least 95% of the solutions I needed. I would recommend them to others without question.”

Tom Alston, owner and founder of Aero & Marine Tax Professionals, stated: “The case went very smoothly, there were no problems in securing the tax exemption on the plane. It is completely legal to avoid paying tax on an aircraft purchase, when it is done the right way. But you need the guidance of professionals who know the tax codes backwards and forwards. If you’re looking at purchasing an aircraft, contact us.”

Aero & Marine Tax Professionals shows purchasers how to specifically avoid aircraft and vessel sales/use tax in California and to make certain the full value of their next aircraft, vehicle or vessel goes into their pocket--not the government's. They have successfully filed hundreds of tax returns with the California State Board of Equalization. Mr. Alston has also published many articles on sales and use tax. Their blog can be seen at http://aeromarinetaxpros.typepad.com.

A Timely Mold Inspection & Remediation is Vital to the Health of Building/Rental Occupants and Costs of Remediation

Business Cleaning Company Calls For Mold Inspection at the First Sign of Danger

LOS ANGELES, CA: Building Cleaning Services, (http://buildingcleaningservices.net/) a Los Angeles mold removal and post-construction cleaning business, has discovered that not all business owners call for mold inspection and remediation when it is needed. According to the company, some wait too long to get an inspection and this can lead to a more costly remediation. A business owner or property manager or owner should call for an inspection at the first sign of heavy mold infestation. In this way, a mold remediation company can be hired to rectify the situation in a timely manner and, thereby reducing overall costs.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, “Many building materials provide suitable nutrients that encourage mold to grow. Wet cellulose materials, including paper and paper products, cardboard, ceiling tiles, wood, and wood products, are particularly conducive for the growth of some molds.” Insulation materials, drywall, carpet, fabric, and upholstery also commonly support mold growth, the CDCP warns.

Garrison Clarke, Operations Manager for the Los Angeles mold remediation company Building Cleaning Services (BCS) said, “Time and time again, the delay in acting to get an inspection and then an independent company to conduct mold remediation adds unnecessary costs.”

As a guide to where to look for possible mold, Clarke refers to the California Department of Public Health which says: “Be on the lookout for the following common sources of moisture inside and outside your home that may lead to mold problems,” such as:

-Flooding
-Leaky roof
-Sprinkler spray hitting the house
-Plumbing leaks and overflow from sinks or sewers
-Damp basement or crawl space
-Steam from showers or cooking or humidifiers
-Warped floors and discoloration on walls and ceilings can be indications of moisture problems.

Building Cleaning Services has had excellent results from its rapid and effective mold remediation process. Here is just one of the reviews from their customers on Yelp.com: “I hired BCS a few years ago - before I was a Yelper - and they were great. From the crew to the back office, everyone was professional, on time, fair and friendly. They took care of our water intrusion issue and made a bad situation so much easier to handle. They actually care about their work and doing a good job. A rare find.” More of their clients reviews can be found online at Yelp.com: http://www.yelp.com/biz/building-cleaning-services-glendale?nb=1

The company has a list of professional qualified Los Angeles mold inspectors: http://buildingcleaningservices.net/mold-removal/mold-inspectors/


BCS provides water damage handling and mold removal services for the Greater Los Angeles area, and other areas of Southern California. Established in 1997, they have over a decade of experience as a company with fast service, high professionalism and work ethic. BCS is certified by the Institute of Inspection and Cleaning and Restoration and Environmental Testing & Technology. To learn more, visit http://www.BuildingCleaningServices.net, or call 818-953-7100 or e-mail bcs@buildingcleaningservices.net.

Mold Can Impact Real Estate Loans and Other Factors for Buildings

Mold Can Affect Home and Building Owners Financially

LOS ANGELES, CA: Building Cleaning Services (BCS), (http://buildingcleaningservices.net/), a Los Angeles mold remediation specialist and post-construction cleaning business, is raising awareness with building and home owners on the effects of mold contamination which can reduce the value of the property. Garrison Clarke, BCS Operations Manager, said the company has increasingly seen property sellers lose money from inappropriate remediation of mold.

According to a report from Phillips Nizer LLP, a law firm based in New York: “Financial lenders also have been sensitized to the mold issue and may require property-owning borrowers to make some or all of following representations and warranties:

“1. The subject premises currently display no evidence of water infiltration or water damage;
2. There are no prior or current complaints (leaks, odors, etc.) by tenants at the premises;
3. The subject premises currently display no evidence of conspicuous mold growth;
4. The subject premises are in compliance with any applicable building code currently in effect in the state where the property is located.”

Further, “more and more commercial transactions involve due diligence to evaluate buildings for the actual or potential presence of mold contamination. Environmental representations and warranties in transactional documents have been expanded to include mold/fungi/bacteria within the more traditional definitions and requirements affecting hazardous wastes and contaminants.”

Building Cleaning Services has more than a decade of experience in the field of mold remediation. The company urges building owners to schedule an inspection immediately upon sighting of mold or the signs of mold in a building. BCS does not do the inspections itself, but relies upon independent testing both to determine the need for remediation and clearance of it, once remediated.

The company has worked successfully with Los Angeles mold remediation with many cases. One of the company’s clients stated: “[They] are such wonderful people. BCS cleans our offices during the week, but when we discovered that we had a black mold problem, I was happy to learn that they also do mold remediation. They were SO professional, informative, & responsive. It was an absolute pleasure working with them and easy on our end. I would highly recommend this company to anybody and will continue to use their services when needed.”

Building Cleaning Services' other reviews on Yelp can be seen at http://www.yelp.com/biz/building-cleaning-services-glendale

BCS provides water damage handling and mold removal services for the Greater Los Angeles area, and other areas of Southern California. Established in 1997, they have over a decade of experience as a company with fast service, high professionalism and work ethic. BCS is certified by the Institute of Inspection and Cleaning and Restoration and Environmental Testing & Technology. To learn more, visit http://www.BuildingCleaningServices.net, or call 818-953-7100 or e-mail bcs@buildingcleaningservices.net.

Should Your Book Editor Be An Author?

By Susan Mary Malone


Do book editors have to be authors themselves to successfully edit?

It depends upon what sort of editing we’re talking about. For copyeditors and proofers, no, although it often helps with idioms and the like. A firm grasp on grammar, syntax, spelling, of course is a must, but having written successfully isn’t mandatory.

However, every great developmental editor I know also writes, and writes well. I’m not talking just blogs and articles, although those prove helpful too. But these book editors also write fiction and/or nonfiction full-length works. And, have been published (although many use pseudonyms), often and well.

Why? On first blush, it wouldn’t seem necessary for someone editing your book to be an author, as you’re coming to that person to work with your manuscript, not her own. In fact, writers express concerns to me almost daily that they fear an editor “changing the voice,” or, “altering the intent” of their books. Boy, I’d be concerned about that too! I hear horror stories of that happening every single day.

A great editor, however, has firm boundaries between her own work and that of an editorial client. A great editor’s job is to help the writer hone his skills, help make the book the best it can be, and otherwise stay the heck out of the way!

And that goes back to an editor having written successfully herself. She knows the pitfalls of all aspects of great fiction—having not only faced those herself, but also mastered them, or publishing success wouldn’t have happened. Not merely with stylistic elements, but also dealing with the true blood and guts of a novel—characterization issues and plotting problems and flow and voice and tone and well, we could go on and on.

The point of great editing is not just to identify the problems. Astute readers can do that—hence the rage these days of “Beta” readers. And those can be helpful, but only to a point, and that point is far from getting you to a publishable manuscript.

The point of great editing is helping you figure out how to fix the problems. Giving suggestions and examples, many ways of getting you from “In the beginning,” to “amen.” And all the while maintaining the pristine, unique virtues of your voice and intent. Great authors have fallen into the same black holes new writers face, and mastered those, found ways to climb out (and better yet—not to fall in again!) or they wouldn’t have been published in the first place.

And doing so is tricky. That’s also why even great authors aren’t always great editors. Those firm boundaries must be in place, as well as a gift, if you will, for finding ways to help other writers claw out of those holes, and make their books publishable.

This requires a unique skill set, part experience, and part simply a knack. And finally, a love of the word and books and a deep desire to help make others’ works wonderful as well as their own . . . Tough shoes to fill indeed!

I often liken the author/agent relationship to a marriage. And the developmental editor’s role as that of marriage counselor. So, choose wisely. That person will have a huge impact on your writing career, and we want that to be positive!

Foundations And Soil Issues

by Shawn Kyles

Soil is made up of sand, silt and clay, along with organic materials. Soil types are determined by the mixture of these elements. For example, expansive soil, also called clay soil, has a higher concentration of clay particles than any other type of soil, while sandy soil has more sand particles. Sand particles are also large, while clay particles are extremely small. The clay particles also stick together, which prevents air from passing through the soil and causes any water that accumulates in the soil to drain more slowly.

A foundation built on expansive soil can have foundation problems more easily than those built on other types of soil. This is because when expansive (clay) soil becomes moist, it expands. The expansion lifts the foundation. The lifting can occur in different places, depending on building load (the weight that is carried by the structure) and the amount of moisture present. For example, expansive soil may push up the corners of a structure more than the center.

When the clay dries, the soil shrinks, leaving gaps in the soil.

Soil expansion can cause foundation cracks and put stress on a building’s structure. Soil contraction can also result in cracks, as well as foundation settlement.

Cracks in a foundation will allow more moisture to enter the structure, which can impact its stability.

Foundation settlement can prevent doors and windows from closing properly, cause sloping floors and other structural problems.

Homeowners in regions with distinct wet and dry seasons will usually experience more problems with expansive soil compared to places where soil conditions are consistent all year long. However, rain isn’t the only cause of soil expansion. Sprinklers and plumbing leaks can also affect soil moisture content.

Beginning in the 1950s, many homes were built with piers to prevent foundation damage caused by expansive soil. Over time it was discovered that if the piers weren’t placed deep enough, they could also be raised by expanding soil, sometimes to the point where the pier would fall.

Foundation damage from expansive soil can be minimized if the foundation is extended past the area where the soil’s water content fluctuates. Other solutions to the problem include drainage that directs water away from the structure, or making sure the foundation is strong enough to withstand any swelling and contraction. Grading the soil around the foundation can deter the problem as well.

Another soil issue that can lead to foundation damage is improper compaction. This usually occurs when the foundation is built. If the soil beneath and around the foundation wasn’t compacted properly, it can cause uneven settlement.

How do you know if you have soil issues or a foundation problem? Contact a foundation repair expert and ask for a foundation inspection. A foundation contractor will not only know where to look, but what to look for, when conducting the inspection. If there is a situation that needs to be addressed, a foundation repair specialist will be able to recommend the right foundation repair solution for your particular situation. Resolving problems quickly can reduce foundation repair costs and help prevent more severe damage that could require foundation replacement.

Tax Firm Helps Rigging Company Obtain Tax Exemption on Company Jet

Aero & Marine Tax Professionals Help Company With Sales Tax Exemption On New Plane

SACRAMENTO, CA: Aero & Marine Tax Professionals, (http://aeromarinetaxpros.com/) an aircraft tax specialist firm in Northern California, recently assisted a northern California crane and rigging company in supporting a claim for a use tax exemption involving the purchase of a company jet. It saved them around 9% off the aircraft purchase price.

An executive from the company stated: “We wanted the flexibility of flying to various customer locations and offices for the owner and his senior staff. The problem was just getting on planes, as opposed to flying commercially. There were a number of locations, such as Minnesota, Houston, Utah. These are all locations that we hit as a normal part of our cycle. The flexibility that owning an aircraft affords us was being able to go whenever we needed, in the comfort of your own plane. It just made it that much easier. We even were able to have business meetings in flight. The big thing was not being held at the mercy of timing at the airports – the flexibility of being able to go when you want. “…we found Aero & Marine Tax Professionals with the person that helped us acquire our first plane. He got us in touch with them to help us with the whole use tax process. It became very easy for us once we hired them, to work with their staff. It was easy to provide the documentation they needed to support the business purpose of the trips, whether they were in-state or outside the state. Aero & Marine was good at follow-up and documenting the process, pulling together the information they needed. The fact that they had been through it many, many times just made it easier for us. I would absolutely recommend them to others.”

Tom Alston, founder and owner of Aero & Marine Tax Professionals, stated: “The case went very well, the client was very happy with the outcome. Actually they’ve already informed us they are purchasing a second plane and will be hiring us to take care of the tax status of that plane as well. Those who have worked with us know that it’s important not to try and take the case into their own hands, they are not fully familiar with the California aircraft tax codes as we are. It’s our specialty, so people turn to us.”

Aero & Marine Tax Professionals shows purchasers how to avoid aircraft tax and vessel tax in California and to make certain the full value of their next aircraft, vehicle or vessel goes into their pocket--not the government's. They have successfully filed hundreds of tax returns with the California State Board of Equalization. Mr. Alston has also published many articles on sales and use tax. His blog can be seen at http://aeromarinetaxpros.typepad.com

Tax Firm Helps Aircraft Leasing Company With Tax Exemption on Plane

Northern California Aircraft Leasing Company Gets Tax Exemption on Cirrus Airplane

SACRAMENTO, CA: Aero & Marine Tax Professionals, (http://aeromarinetaxpros.com/) an aircraft tax specialist firm in Northern California, recently assisted a northern California aircraft leasing company in supporting a claim for a use tax exemption on the purchase of a Cirrus SR 22 T airplane, saving them close to 8% off the purchase price. This was the company’s second time working with Aero & Marine Tax Professionals on a tax exemption for an aircraft.

An executive from the company stated: “The problem was I had a commute that required me to go from Steamboat Springs, CO at 7,000 feet altitude to Fresno, CA at 300 feet altitude. I needed to upgrade my Cirrus from a normally aspirated to a turbo. As for doing it commercially, I guess the snarky answer would be that if you tried doing a commercial flight from either Steamboat Springs, CO or Hayden, CO, the answer would be self-evident. They only have one flight a day during the non-ski season, and you have to fly all the way back to Denver to make a connecting flight, which means you have to cross the Rockies twice. And then all the other good stuff that goes with flying commercial. When I bought my first plane, back in 2006, Aero & Marine Tax Professionals were referred to me by my accountant. It was pretty easy. My office tells me they were very responsive & fast. I would absolutely recommend them to others. We’d never buy a plane without involving Aero & Marine.”

Tom Alston, founder and owner of Aero & Marine Tax Professionals, stated: “This case went very smoothly, just as well as the first time we worked with them. There can be times where a person does not suppose they will need to worry about California sales tax, such as if the plane was purchased in another state. But it’s been shown by many cases that the safest thing to do is contact us. We’ve helped many companies to legally avoid aircraft tax.”

Aero & Marine Tax Professionals shows purchasers how to avoid aircraft tax and vessel tax in California and to make certain the full value of their next aircraft, vehicle or vessel goes into their pocket--not the government's. They have successfully filed hundreds of tax returns with the California State Board of Equalization. Mr. Alston has also published many articles on sales and use tax. His blog can be seen at http://aeromarinetaxpros.typepad.com