Page 22 THE VILLADOM TIMES II & IV • March 14, 2012 Chris James, president of Chris James Landscaping, Inc., was recently named to the elite status of Trailblazer by PLANET, the Professional Landcare Network. Trailblazers are a select group of individuals nominated by their peers as dedicated professionals who have made significant, long-term contributions to the green industry. The program was launched in 2002 to recognize industry leaders and to share their wealth of knowledge with PLANET members. James is one of 90 Trailblazers added since 2002. James is a long-term resident of Midland Park and presently resides in Oakland with his wife Mairead. He has two stepchildren and a granddaughter. He has been vice chairman of the Bergen Agriculture Board Chris James named Trailblazer by PLANET since its inception, and sits on a fee arbitration board to which he was appointed by the Supreme Court of New Jersey. Chris James Landscaping, Inc. is a full-service landscape management company that has been serving both residential and commercial clients since 1981. The company is based at 33 Zazzetti Street, Suite 1, in Waldwick. For more information, call (201) 670-9000, e-mail info@cjlands.com, or visit www.chrisjameslandscaping.com. Since its inception, the Trailblazer Program has received rave reviews from the PLANET-member companies that have benefited from a day of mentoring by a Trailblazer. It’s time to refresh backyard patios and décor Outdoor entertaining is a primary component of the warm-weather season. Individuals flock to their backyard patios and decks to barbecue or simply soak up a little sun. Over the course of the fall and winter, your patio may have experienced some wear and tear. If the patio is several years old, it may need some maintenance to improve its appearance for the new season. Maintenance often depends on the material used. Before starting, figure out what your patio needs and stock up on the supplies. Many patios are poured concrete, and a simple pressure-washing could be all that is needed to revive the look. Pressure washers can be rented or purchased. If there are cracks or chips in the patio, some minor patchwork may remedy unsightly problems. There are fast-dry patching kits. If the patio is especially damaged, it may be in your best interest to simply replace the patio or cover it with a different material, like wood decking. Some patios are constructed from paving stones. Pavers are usually installed atop a thin layer of sand and then more sand is brushed into the seams between the pavers to set them in place. Over time, the sand may become dislodged, causing the pavers to wobble or even grow uneven. Taking the time to brush new sand over a paver patio can keep the stones stable. Because pavers are not a solid surface, weeds can grow between the stones. Hand weeding helps keep weeds from being unsightly. This year, maybe it’s not about refreshing the patio but installing one instead. Although many homeowners choose to make the installation of a patio a do-it-yourself project with fine results, if you have a large yard or One company owner stated, “I can’t think of a better benefit to members than to sign up for the Trailblazer program. To get the expertise and wisdom from someone in your own industry is fantastic. Thank you, PLANET, for this opportunity!” For more information about the Trailblazer program and the mentoring opportunities it offers, contact Gail Rogers, (800) 395-2522 or visit LandcareNetwork.org. PLANET represents approximately 3,500 green industry service provider companies and suppliers nationwide that specialize in design/build/installation, interior plantscaping, landscape management, and lawn care. These firms and their employees represent more than 100,000 green industry professionals. an intricate design, you may want to price out masons. These contractors could have relationships with suppliers of concrete and patio pavers, which could save on the cost of materials for the job. Plus you will have the benefit of knowing the work was done correctly. Now is also the time to wash the cushions to your patio set to enhance your patio décor. Do so on a sunny, warm day to allow the cushions to dry adequately so they won’t develop mildew or mold staining and odor. If the cushions look dated or beyond repair, this season could be a good time to head to the store and purchase a new set. Nothing refreshes a patio more than bright colors and attractive accessories. While new planters filled with flowers could do the trick, coordinate patio colors with new upholstery for outdoor furniture, throw pillows, and a new patio umbrella to complete the look.