A year ago, Bob Burkhart and his wife, Jill, opened NaturaLawn of America, a company that says it uses natural and organic-based fertilizers to control lawn pests and promote healthy soil and grass. The Burkharts' Sunnyvale business is only the second California franchise of a Maryland-based company. Burkhart says he's growing his business through direct mail and word of mouth.

"I figured organic was a big deal out here," says the Maryland native.

"I'd say [business] is good," he adds. "We've been getting our name out there." And he says they are getting a good response.

NaturaLawn customer Staci Howery says organic lawn care keeps her grass healthy enough for her two pet tortoises.

But the Burkharts offer a choice--a completely pesticide-free lawn-care program, as well as programs that use minimal amounts of pesticides in combination with organic products for pests that are best gotten rid of with a few chemicals in the mix. The products are made with any of more than 300 ingredients, including microorganisms and micronutrients.

"The fertilizers we make, you can't buy in a store," Burkhart says.

Burkhart, who has about 50 clients at present, says he's waiting out the winter for business to pick up.

"We expect to get a good spring in," he says.

Burkhart worked for a landscaping business after he moved to California in January 1993 but says he prefers being his own boss. "You can only go so far when you're working for someone."

Sunnyvale Rotary Club
holds its big crab feed

While gorging on all the crab they want, people can help provide free medical services, feed the homeless and promote youth literacy.

The Sunnyvale Rotary Club is having its annual crab feed on Feb. 28 from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. at St. Cyprians Church. The proceeds from the benefit go to several important programs, including the Mountain view RotaCare Clinic, which provides free medical services for those who have the most need and least access to medical care; food for the homeless who come to the Sunnyvale Armory; and books and volunteer hours to assist in reading programs. Proceeds also go to eradicate polio throughout the world.

Tickets are $30 a person and include all-you-can-eat crab, spaghetti, bread and salad. The evening will include a cash bar, silent auction, raffles and horse races.

St. Cyprians Church is located at 1133 West Washington.

Tickets can be purchased from any Sunnyvale Rotary member or by calling 408.733.8182.

Packing it in at Borders
bookstore in Sunnyvale

The author of It's in the Bag: The Complete Guide to Lightweight Travel, Barbara DesChamps, will demonstrate her methods for creating an attractive, multipurpose travel wardrobe, passing inspections easier and having a safe, relaxing trip. She is able to put more than 100 items in a carry-on.

The demonstration takes place March 14, at Borders in Sunnyvale, 316 W. El Camino Real.

For information call 408.730.5050.