ith its warm temperatures and white, sandy beaches, it is easy to see why San Diego has been dubbed “America’s Finest City.” Situated on the Pacific coast of Southern California, San Diego boasts a population of more than 1.4 million, making it the second largest city in California and the eighth largest city in the United States. San Diego is often considered the “birthplace of California,” as it is the site of the state’s first permanent Spanish settlement. Known for its longstanding relationship with the U.S. Navy, the city is home to Naval Base San Diego, which houses approximately 54 naval ships. Between its compelling beauty and storied history, San Diego has cemented itself as one of the most dynamic places in the United States.

With a variety of waterfront attractions, museums and shopping destinations, America’s Finest City presents itself as an incredible backdrop for NPMA PestWorld 2019, providing attendees with plenty to see, do and eat during their visit.

ATTRACTIONS. A hub for culture, nature and history, Balboa Park is the ideal attraction for those looking to explore all that San Diego has to offer. This plot of land, which today sprawls 1,200 acres, was placed in reserve by San Diego civic leaders in 1868, making it one of the oldest areas in the United States dedicated to recreational use. Once known as “City Park,” Balboa Park is located minutes away from downtown San Diego. The park houses 17 museums, including the San Diego Air & Space Museum, the Museum of Photographic Arts and the Fleet Science Center, as well as attractions like the San Diego Zoo and the Cabrillo Bridge. Visitors can stroll through one of Balboa Park’s lush gardens or learn about its rich architectural history by taking a tour with a park ranger. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, this San Diego gem is a place you won’t want to miss.

For stunning views, consider visiting La Jolla Cove. Known for its scenic views, La Jolla Cove is a magnificent spot for those hoping to get a close-up look at San Diego’s marine life. Surrounded by cliffs and occupied by a variety of sea creatures, including seals, sea lions and barracuda, this cove and beach presents beautiful sights both on the shore and in the water. Visitors can take guided scuba diving tours or try their hand at other ocean-based activities, such as snorkeling, swimming, kayaking and paddle boarding, while those who wish to stay on land can take bike tours or enjoy a picnic at La Jolla Shores Park. Located close by is downtown La Jolla Village, which contains a series of shops, museums and art galleries. While you’re there, you can check out a show at The Comedy Store or view the murals that adorn buildings throughout the area. With a blend of nature, culture and entertainment, La Jolla has a little bit of everything.

While you’re sightseeing, take a stroll down San Diego’s Embarcadero. Located along the San Diego Bay, this walkway not only features dazzling views, but also has many of the city’s best shops, museums and attractions. For souvenirs and unique shopping experiences, venture to Seaport Village, a destination that offers a variety of one-of-a-kind stores and restaurants. Some of Seaport Village’s shops include American Nostalgia, a novelty shop that specializes in retro memorabilia; Sock Harbor, a store that sells an array of themed socks; and Hot Licks, your destination for spicy salsas, hot sauces and foods from around the world.

To develop your knowledge of historic sailing ships and submarines, visit the Maritime Museum of San Diego. Boasting a vast collection of historic ships, including the Star of India, the world’s oldest active ship, this museum restores and operates many vessels. View exhibits that highlight the development of ships over the centuries, as well as San Diego’s history with the U.S. Navy, or book a ticket on one of the museum’s boat tours. The San Salvador Sailing Adventure, a four-hour day sail, takes place aboard a ship modeled after Spanish explorer Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo’s San Salvador, which he sailed into San Diego’s port in 1542. The Tall Ship Adventure, another four-hour excursion, showcases ship life during the California Gold Rush. Passengers get the chance to haul a line and man the helm as they learn about sailing history and the exploration of San Diego. If you’d prefer a shorter boat ride, the Naval History Bay Tour is a 75-minute journey that details the history of the military in the city.

Another place to visit along the Embarcadero is the USS Midway Museum. The longest serving aircraft carrier of the 20th century, the USS Midway now functions as a museum, housing a variety of aircraft exhibits and interactive activities. The museum has more than 30 restored helicopters and aircrafts, as well as a below decks exhibit that allows you to explore where crew members aboard the USS Midway ate, slept and spent their free time. You can also check out one of the flight simulators, which allow visitors to experience what it was like for USS Midway aviators during missions.

Photo courtesy of San Diego Zoo

Not far from San Diego is LEGOLAND, a unique theme park perfect for the whole family. Guests can immerse themselves in the world of LEGO as they walk through attractions built from LEGO blocks that are modeled after U.S. cities, such as San Francisco, Las Vegas, New York City and Washington, D.C. Roller coaster enthusiasts can take rides on Coastersaurus and The Dragon. Visitors can also try out the park’s interactive games and experiences. Lost Kingdom Adventure arms riders with laser blasters, which they use to battle interactive creatures as they search for the treasure of the Lost Kingdom, and Safari Trek brings guests on a ride to see giant LEGO animals. If you need to cool off, head to the LEGOLAND Water Park. With various pools and waterslides, this park is bound to have plenty of ways for you to enjoy your time under the California sun.

FOOD. If you’re feeling famished after a day of exploring San Diego, there are plenty of dining options from which to choose.

In the mood for a hamburger and a fun, casual atmosphere? Consider Hodad’s. This popular spot, which has been featured on the Food Network’s “Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives,” has a tasty selection of burgers, sides and drinks. Choose from a variety of burger toppings, including bacon, blue cheese and pastrami, which you can pair with a side of fries or onion rings. Although Hodad’s is known for its hamburgers, the eatery also serves chicken strips, tuna, grilled cheese, a chicken burger and a BLT, as well as vegan and vegetarian burgers. Finish off your meal with a chocolate, vanilla or strawberry milkshake or malt.

For authentic Mexican cuisine, stop by Super Cocina. Established in 1988, this San Diego original offers patrons a variety of dishes from different regions of Mexico. If you want a taste of a popular entrée, order the puerco en chile colorado, which is pork, pork ribs and potatoes topped with a spicy chile and tomatillo sauce. You can also try enchiladas verdes, homemade enchiladas filled with chicken or cheese, or mole poblano, chicken covered in mole sauce. Super Cocina changes its menu daily, so while you’re there, ask about the specials of the day.

If you want unique food in a sleek, urban setting, consider Dija Mara. Voted “Best New Restaurant in North County” by San Diego Magazine in 2018, this restaurant serves Southeast Asian cuisine with a “Western flair.” Stopping in between 5 p.m. and 9:30 p.m., you can find dinner options such as the oxtail dumplings, charred eggplant, grilled hangar steak and chicken thigh satay. If you go between 11 a.m. and 2 p.m., you will be able to order from the brunch menu, which features a spicy eggplant bowl, Thai sausage hash and short rib rendang, among other items.

Thinkstock: visitorlando.com

NIGHTLIFE. For vibrant nightlife, check out the Gaslamp Quarter. Known for its Victorian architecture and lively atmosphere, this historic neighborhood contains an assortment of nightclubs, bars and lounges, making it the ideal destination for drinks and entertainment. If you’re looking for a ritzy experience, check out Prohibition, a speakeasy-inspired bar with a concealed entrance. With cocktails and live music, Prohibition will make you feel like you’ve been transported to the 1920s. A formal dress code is required on Friday and Saturday to keep up with the retro vibe. However, Sunday through Thursday, feel free to wear your casual clothes.

Another spot in Gaslamp Quarter is Café Sevilla, which functions as a Spanish restaurant, tapas bar and nightclub. Café Sevilla focuses on tapas, or small plates, and offers a variety of Spanish wines and sangria. The tapas bar hosts entertainment every night, such as live music and salsa dance lessons. If you head downstairs, you’ll find the Sevilla Nightclub. Featuring music and a dance floor, this nightclub provides energy and excitement.

From the beaches to the museums, San Diego has many opportunities for you to explore during your stay. Rich in culture and beauty, “America’s Finest City” gives you the opportunity to embark on exciting adventures and experience new things. Whether you discover the city’s history at Balboa Park, absorb the breathtaking views of La Jolla Cove or take advantage of the hotel amenities, you’re bound to have a memorable time while you’re in San Diego.

The author is a Cleveland-based writer and can be contacted at pbennett@gie.net.

With most of the country under snow, rain, tornadoes or extreme heat, the West Coast can handle a little rock and roll earthquake every so often. The West Coast has almost every type of temperature and climate imaginable, from the mountains and cold of the Northwest to the deserts of Southern California. The oasis that is Los Angeles is home to some of the larger companies on the West Coast; Western Exterminator (now part of Rentokil), Isotech (also now part of Rentokil) and Dewey Pest Control. The local climates also are favorable to single-person companies, as the larger ones get bought out. While we may be the Golden State, appearing “green” is just the beginning of our challenges.

Staffing has become a huge issue for companies of all sizes, especially on the West Coast with the differing attitudes and entitlements of millennials. New hires from outside the industry are becoming harder to find and college-educated potential employees are taking their skills into the STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) markets. What has made things worse is the large number of licensed technicians who are not truly desirable, but since they have the license, they float from company to company, damaging our industry’s reputation. The industry, especially locally, needs to get more involved at the high school level and community colleges to bolster recruitment into the industry. Rodent REGULATORY ISSUES. The pest control industry in California dodged a bullet in late August when Assembly Bill 1788, the California Ecosystems Protection Act, was pulled from the state’s Senate Appropriations Committee (placed into the suspense file), effectively killing it for this year (see related story, page 22). Had it been signed into law, AB 1788 would have banned second generation anticoagulant rodenticides (SGARs) in California.

Proponents of AB 1788 presented a simple argument. They claimed rodents would eat a rodenticide, die and most likely will have excess product in its digestive system. A raptor, coyote or mountain lion that feeds on the carcass will consume a sub-lethal dose, get sick and die. (At least that is the way the proponents view it. The lack of good science to overthrow the emotional response to such hypotheses has not been enough. Even though it has been argued the main culprits misusing rodenticides are homeowners, professionals are most visible and in the cross hairs. As of this writing, SGARs have been preserved for use in California, but this legislative issue will certainly resurface. A silver lining here is that as PMPs we will have to be more educated on biology and behavior, exclusion, sanitation, environmental manipulation and the use of alternative products.

CITY OF ANGELS...OR RATS. The city of Los Angeles is on numerous lists of “worst cities for rats.” Homelessness, poor sanitation and lack of coordination have all led to a surge in rodent populations in and around homeless encampments. We have also seen the re-surfacing of typhus, a flea-borne disease of the Middle Ages. This is a direct result of these conditions. As the homeless problem moves into other surrounding communities, problems only escalate. Rodent control is becoming a major issue and the heavier, burrowing Norway rat is the major player.

Companies such as Cats USA, which currently handles the Los Angeles City contract for rodent abatement, has set up crews of technicians working in conjunction with the Los Angeles Police Department for security. Following sanitation workers as they clean the streets, burrows are dusted for fleas and sealed against further entry.

ON THE INSECT FRONT. The Argentine ant is getting strong competition from a new invasive species in Southern California, the dark rover ant, Brachymyrmex patagonicus.

The dark rover ant is 1-2 millimeter long, reddish brown to black in color. They are a single-node ant, with the node typically being covered by the gaster. The antennae are the key to identification, being only 9 segments long. Their behavior is most unique in that while Argentine ants trail in a nice, neat line, rover ants literally dance their way along a route in a most haphazard manner. Rover ants are very aggressive. They will comfortably coexist with other ant species, however, including the red imported fire ant and Argentine ant.

First found in Riverside, Calif., in 2010, this ant could be very well dispersed throughout California. Unlike the Argentine ant, this ant will nest indoors or outdoors. Mulch and loose soil are their favorite areas for nesting. Due to their size, most observances of the rover ant occur along concrete edges, but the ant will readily invade homes and forage in all areas of the home.

Control will be difficult, but not impossible. I have found baits with imidacloprid to be effective. In nature, this ant is normally a sugar/nectar feeder, but in my experience most sugar baits will not be readily accepted.

The prevalence in the news of the West Nile virus and Zika virus have led to a newish market opening up in 2017 and 2018: mosquito control. While in Florida and the Southeast, mosquito control programs are common, California is just starting to understand that homeowners, nursing homes, senior communities, hospitals and schools cannot rely on the local vector control agencies to control all species of biting insects. With the introduction of Aedes aegypti to the region, we are now faced with a foe that is one-third the size of the Asian tiger mosquito, but much more voracious and troublesome. Programs to combat these pests must be multifaceted and education is one of the keys to success. Cost effective larvicide and adulticide programs are constantly evolving and the use of more “green” products is generating more interest.

A NEW INVADER. California has been invaded by a new pest, the Turkestan cockroach (Blatta lateralis). So little is known about Turkestan cockroaches’ biology that the effect the invaders might have on native wildlife is pretty much a mystery.

as a source of food for their insect-eating pets. Two inches long and relatively easy to raise, the cockroaches are reluctant to climb vertical surfaces and can, therefore, be kept more or less confined in a large plywood box, or similar container.

Photo courtesy of UGA Extension

As with other insects, Turkestan cockroaches molt — that is, shedding its exoskeleton revealing a new mature stage — several times throughout the course of their lives. Unlike their oriental cockroach cousins, however, Turkestan cockroaches become reproductively mature adults after five molts. (Oriental cockroaches require between seven and 10 molts before they can start reproducing.)

According to the Integrated Pest Management website maintained by the University of California, Davis, Turkestan roaches seem to prefer outdoor habitats in proximity to humans. Where they exist in California, they are commonly found in pavement cracks, buried utility boxes, compost piles, and among debris. (They seem to enjoy hanging out in the potting soil around the roots of outdoor potted plants, something that avid container gardeners will want to keep in mind when bringing plants indoors during extremes of temperature.) And they’re pretty easy to find on the internet as well. A New York-based breeder, for example, ships the roaches to all 50 states, save Florida, and describes the species as “taking the feeder roach market by storm.”

It’s unlikely that reptile fans are responsible for the roach’s presence in California. In an interview with the Los Angeles Times, University of California, Riverside entomologist Dr. Michael Rust — who has a paper on the species in a recent issue of the Journal of Economic Entomology — points out that the Turkestan cockroach’s 1978 debut in California was at Fort Sharpe, appearing soon after at other military bases such Fort Bliss in Texas. As the roach is native to the Middle East and Central Asia, the potential for military personnel to have brought the roach home with them seems clear.

Regardless of how the roach got here, it’s unusual for an invasive species to be sold so readily and freely online. “It will be interesting to follow the spread of the Turkestan cockroach in the United States,” Rust and his co-authors said in a press statement. “This may be the first time that an invasive urban pest species is widely distributed via the internet and through the sale of live insects.” Regarding this pest’s dispersion, soil, soil amendments, and boxed plants originating from Los Angeles are getting transported to suburban area and they sometimes are bringing this roach with them.

The author is the owner of California Pest Management in La Verne, Calif. He has a BS from Purdue University and MS from Virginia Tech University.

As Chris Gorecki steps into his role as the 85th president of the National Pest Management Association (NPMA) he’ll preside over an organization whose members — those involved in the pest control industry — are taking advantage of today's technologies and growth opportunities. However, it is an industry facing the challenge of identifying and retaining a skilled workforce that can deliver the high-quality services today’s residential and commercial customers demand.

This summer, PCT visited with Gorecki, vice president operational support at Rollins Inc., to get his take on the issues, opportunities and successes the association has realized — and what he hopes to accomplish during his term leading NPMA.

A longtime proponent of proactive public policy, Gorecki has chaired NPMA’s Government Affairs (now Public Policy) committee and continues to be an active voice at the national, state and local level, advocating for sensible, scientific-based regulations that benefit pest management professionals, consumers and the environment.

“Public policy has and always will be a major focus for the association and the industry. It is a fascinating and frustrating process at the same time,” says Gorecki. “We’ve made strides in recent years by going on the offensive, and we need to keep the momentum moving forward.”

A 32-year veteran of the pest management industry, Gorecki started his career as a commercial pest control technician with Orkin Pest Control in Houston, Texas, in the mid 1980s. He knows what’s important to both the frontline technician and occupants of the c-suite, and he hopes to use his broad experience and common-sense approach to help the association.

“Furthering the engagement and conversation between NPMA, its members and the industry as a whole is one thing I want to make sure we push over the next year and beyond,” says Gorecki. “To continue our growth as an industry will take a team effort and support from the grassroots.”

Q: What initiatives will you focus on during your term as NPMA president?

A: Public policy at all levels will be a major focus for the association and the industry. One program that has really stood out is the State Policy Affairs Representative program (SPAR). It has been hugely beneficial to the industry in providing states structure and resources when it comes to addressing regulatory issues at the grassroots level. As an industry we are not looking to reduce or eliminate legislation that protects people and the environment, but instead we are working to get it right and bring common sense to the conversation.

We are getting membership engaged with topics beyond regulatory issues. We are advocating positions on issues impacting how small businesses are managed and relieving them of burdensome regulations. This is a good example of how grassroots efforts can bring relief to business owners.

We can’t take the foot off the pedal, however, since the groups that want to affect us aren’t stopping and, in some instances, are coming at us harder than ever before.

Q: You spent two years as chair of the Government Affairs committee (now Public Policy) and have extensive experience in government affairs. What would a second term for the current [White House] administration mean for the industry?

A: The pest management industry will always adapt no matter who is occupying the White House. We are well-positioned either way. If there is a second term, Congress — both the House and Senate — must come together to help move some big picture opportunities forward.

As an industry we need to continue to tell our story. We need to educate representatives and regulators to get them comfortable with the real value we bring to the table — protecting people, property, food and public health from harmful pests. The message resonates with both sides of the aisle, and we need to continue to hammer it home at every opportunity.

Q: How has the approach to advocacy and public policy changed?

A: In years past it was easier to make visits and meet with elected officials who skewed more to the middle. We’ve lost that group to an extent and it has made it more difficult to have substantive conversations that address some of the hard conversations. Our messaging is key. We need to continue to branch out and understand the mindsets of both sides of the aisle and be creative in our approaches.

Q: How is the new NPMA dues structure going?

A: Nothing had been done with dues in some time and we needed to get revenue neutral and introduce more transparency. No one ever dreamed there would be billion-dollar companies and there was a need for thoughtful change to the structure. There isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach — 87 percent of the industry is small companies — and all have different needs, so we continue to listen and make sure everyone has a voice.

Q: All trade associations are under pressure to deliver more to their members, what is NPMA doing to respond?

A: NPMA has a tremendous amount of resources available to its members, ranging from public policy to consumer-facing programs aimed at educating and growing the market. On the technical side we have state-of-the art resources ready for members to utilize.

The NPMA Field Guide pest identification app is one that stands out to me as worth every penny. How great a tool is it for technicians to have at their disposal in the field? Our offerings in the area of OSHA training speak volumes about how NPMA is working to help members stay compliant, protect employees and make their companies better.

We need to identify more effective ways to communicate the breadth and value of our resources and cut through the noise to engage members, so it easier for them to take advantage of what’s at their disposal.

NPMA’s Quality Pro certification program is another resource that has become a real business advantage for our members. It is helping advance our members’ training and service standards to the next level, and the program continues to expand and promote our professionalism. We are also looking to promote the program beyond the industry to those involved in real estate and procurement who are making buying decisions.

Q: The Professional Pest Management Alliance (PPMA) continues to push the industry’s message with consumers. How critical is the work they are doing and what is the next level for them?

A: The work PPMA is doing is tremendous for (our) industry. They are out front with a positive voice for the industry and developing relationships with key stakeholders like the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), as well as the media. We are fortunate to be in a position where the media now calls us to tap into our expertise, and that is quite a change from years past.

Our challenge is to figure out how to get more industry professionals engaged and supporting the cause. For many years it has been the same group, and if we are going to take it to the next level, we need more resources.

While we have accomplished a lot, there is much more to be done, and we need to educate the industry on what PPMA means to them and how it can help grow and protect their companies.

Q: How is NPMA addressing the issue of diversity/inclusion within the industry?

A: This is an important issue for NPMA, and we are committed to the cause. We established the Diversity Committee in 2013 to lead the charge and help educate members about the benefits of diversity within the industry, provide tools for members to increase diversity within their organizations and promote NPMA membership to minority-owned companies.

The Professional Women in Pest Management is another example of an (NPMA) effort that is taking off and gaining traction at the national and state levels.

People are seeing the value in making diversity and inclusion part of their business. The need for information continues to grow, and it is our job to get that out there. We’ve had some nice wins so far, and we need to share that and build on it.

Q: Employee recruitment and retention remains a concern for company owners/management. What is NPMA doing to enhance the association’s professional development efforts to make the industry more attractive to millennial workers?

A: I’ve always said when you need to solve a problem, ask a technician; they know what’s happening. We’ve started more dialogue on the issue, and people in the industry are doing and trying more things. Many companies are establishing intern programs to recruit college-aged workers to let them experience the industry to see if it is a fit. NPMA also has a new recruitment and retention committee discussing this issue.

The PestVets and Diversity committees are working with companies to find solutions and look at what workers from different backgrounds value in a career and if pest management is a match. We want to present pest management as a progressive industry that is looking to the future.

I think we have become better in tune with the social trends of today. We want to continue to be mindful and sensitive to these issues and attract as diverse a workforce as possible.

Q: What impact has the high frequency of acquisitions had on the association?

A: There is some good and some bad in these moves, and that is the way NPMA looks at it. There is some concern about the impact on membership and engagement, but we’ll see how that shakes out. We are seeing more mid-size companies doing acquisitions and smaller companies building their businesses, and that is a positive sign of growth for the industry. The industry has always survived mergers and acquisitions. New companies continue to pop up and the industry continues to grow. Look at all the new companies on the PCT Top 100!

Q: How are advances in technologies impacting the industry?

A: The advances we are seeing in technology will continue to change the way we run our businesses and interact with customers. Today’s products are less toxic than two decades ago, and we are using less product and leaving a smaller environmental footprint. These are messages we need to share.

Technology is shifting the way we deliver our services and the emphasis on data collection and analysis will only continue to grow.

The key with any new technology, whether it is software or remote monitoring, is finding the right mix that works for both the client and the PMP. Clients still value relationships, and we can’t lose sight of that while embracing new technology.

Suppliers are seeing pest management as an opportunity market, and I think we’ll continue to see new faces and products introduced that will help the industry grow and become more proficient at what we do.

Q: At the end of your term as president, what would you hope people say about your tenure?

A: I hope they’ll say we worked to accomplish goals that benefited the entire industry and that we were good stewards. We want to get people engaged to make a positive impact and make our businesses and industry better. This is a unique industry where people are willing to share their knowledge, and I hope to facilitate more of that.

It is important for people to know that NPMA is working hard on their behalf every day. There are many talented people on staff who love what they are doing. We would not be where we are without them.

The author is a partner of B Communications.

The old joke is that the easiest job in America is being a weather forecaster in San Diego, where it’s always 72°F and sunny. But the weather isn’t the only consistent thing you’ll find in the eighth-largest city in the country. Lloyd Pest Control, (originally The Lloyd Co.) was founded in 1931 and has built its well- recognized brand by delivering high-quality services and putting customer satisfaction first.

Yet, the company’s start in the pest management business was, shall we say, unique. Al Ogle, grandfather of current President Jamie Ogle, purchased the company for the princely sum of $125 in 1936, and began chasing rats from local warehouses and businesses during San Diego’s construction boom that sent the city’s dense rodent population scurrying for new homes.

The elder Ogle, a one-man show at the time, had an interesting approach to his customers’ rodent problems. One that could be described as a loose interpretation of early Integrated Pest Management (IPM).

“Rats are nocturnal, so my grandfather would wait until nighttime to enter warehouses,” says Ogle “His preferred control method was a .22 caliber rifle, which he loaded with bird shot. My grandfather had a great commitment to getting rid of his customers’ pests — and an even better aim.”

Ogle says his grandfather entered the pest control business because it offered a reliable source of income and employment, something tough to come by during the Great Depression.

“He dropped out of high school to support his family and set out to build a business that would allow him to achieve that,” says Ogle. “He was a classic entrepreneur.”

Al’s son, and Jamie’s father, Jim Ogle, joined the company following college and a stint in the U.S. Navy, and helped expand the company’s service offerings beyond general pest control and into the termite business.

“My dad, like my grandfather, learned the business from the ground up and was very hands-on and detailed focused,” says Jamie Ogle, who started working at the company during high school, as do so many members of multi-generational pest control businesses.

Jim Ogle served as president from 1975 until 2000, and the plan was that Jamie would eventually take over the company after college and spending time working outside the industry to see how someone with a last name other than an Ogle ran a business.

That plan took a twist in the fall of 1990, when Jim was diagnosed with lymphoma during Jamie’s senior year at the University of California, Davis. Jamie came on board in the spring of 1991 following his graduation and immersed himself in learning the business from the ground level, like his grandfather and father had done. Thankfully, Jim is now 83, and playing golf and pickle ball every week.

Photos courtesy of Lloyd Pest Control

Ogle spent time as a technician, termite inspector, account manager and fumigator in that period, and he learned the business from a perspective that he now greatly appreciates.

“My dad always said, ‘Take care of your employees and all else will work out,’ and my time in the field early on made me realize how accurate that was and why we remain dedicated to that today,” says Ogle.

LESSONS LEARNED IN TRANSITION. Any father and son relationship is subject to its share of ups and downs, and Jim and Jamie Ogle’s was no different.

The need for detail that Jim Ogle emphasized in his management style was not how Jamie viewed the role of management. His style emphasized hiring the right people and trusting them to do their jobs. And as one could imagine it led to some tension.

While working full-time, Jamie went back to earn his MBA at the University of San Diego to help broaden his business acumen, he didn’t get the chance to gain it immediately following college.

When he came back armed with his degree, he was named a vice president and was sharing an office with his dad.

“When I came back, we didn’t have a clearly communicated path to succession and my role had no real responsibility,” says Jamie Ogle.

That combination led to some frustrating moments for both and eventually to Jim’s decision to step back and hand over the reins to Jamie. Jim’s Vistage group encouraged him to transition the company to Jamie, which Jim did at the turn of the century, along with giving up his Vistage group seat as well.

“We worked very hard at our relationship and met for breakfast every week to keep the lines of communication open,” recalls Ogle. “My dad thought I was out to change everything he had built, and I took his advice as criticism. I was young, thought I ‘knew everything’ and we were just doing what we thought would make the business better.”

Once the decision was made that Jamie would take over, Jim, who is widely recognized in the pest management industry for his humility and kindness, stepped back and did what a good father does — support his son.

“My dad was terrific during the transition, never being critical of me in front of people but continuing to share knowledge and experience,” says Ogle.

Alfie Treleven, CEO of Sprague Pest Solutions, has known the Ogle family for years — since Jamie was in college — and has always admired and respected how they went about building their company.

“You always look at the people that are ahead of you and try to learn from what they are doing,” adds Treleven, who sits at the helm of a fourth-generation company up the Pacific coast in Tacoma, Wash.

Treleven says Jamie Ogle, who did a case study comparison of Lloyd and Sprague while pursuing his MBA, and his dad are both students of life and business.

“They’ve studied successful people and organizations and have taken an even-keeled approach to overcoming challenges and capitalizing on opportunities,” says Treleven.

Ogle says he thought he had the bull by the horns when he became president in 2000, but he soon discovered that being the head man wasn’t so simple. “My dad had run the company for 25 years and made it look easy,” says Ogle. “I learned quickly that things didn’t happen by accident but by design.”

The competitive Ogle, a trait he has displayed from a very young age, wanted to prove himself and show that he could do the job and lead the company.

“The great thing about a family business is that you have the chance to continue a legacy. It also comes with a tremendous responsibility for all the employees, their families, and the responsibility of the legacy as well,” says Ogle.

AN EYE TO THE FUTURE. Buoyed by a strong company culture that bound employees together, Ogle was able to share and implement his vision for the company and steer it in the direction needed to meet the changing demands of both commercial and residential customers.

The company opened a call center in 2002 — a move his dad privately counseled against — and multiple service centers under Jamie’s watch, and it has expanded training and employee career development efforts.

“I told Jamie when they opened the call center that it was a bad idea,” recalls Jim Ogle. “I was probably right the first year, but Jamie’s team’s determination to improve our company came through and the call center transformed how Lloyd services its customers.”

Today, Lloyd Pest Control is the 25th largest pest management company in the U.S. on the PCT Top 100 List ($32 million) and operates seven service centers in addition to its corporate office. The company has plans to open a new service center in Los Angeles County this fall.

Jim Ogle still has an office at the company, but his visits are more sporadic as he fully enjoys retirement and Jamie sees his dad as the company’s spiritual leader.

“He sees the size and scope of things we are doing today and shakes his head and says, ‘Wow,’” says Jamie. “He is very proud of the legacy he carried on from his dad, and that he furthered not only for our family, but our employees as well. It is neat to be able to share this with him.”

Will there be a fourth generation of Ogles running the company some day? Jamie Ogle would like to see the business stay in the family. While his daughter is off to grad school, his high school-aged son and niece are working at the company during the summer months.

Ogle says the company has been fortunate to have the right leadership style in place at the right time over its history.

“Our challenge is to keep the company sustainable and independent moving forward and always remember what my grandfather and dad taught me and that is to take care of the customer and take care of the employees,” says Ogle.

The author is a partner with B Communications and can be contacted at jfenner@gie.net.