BIZ BITES

Roger’s Gardens sponsors countywide eco contest

Roger’s Gardens, a Corona del Mar home and garden center, is spearheading a contest for Orange County residents who have colorful gardens that conserve water and benefit the environment.

The California Friendly Garden Contest, which began Friday, invites residents to submit applications and photographs of their gardens by April 3. The gardens must be located in front yards and have been in existence for at least one month. Starting April 4, the public can vote online for their favorite gardens, after which a panel of judges will examine the 10 finalists and select five division winners in addition to a Best in Orange County grand prize winner.

The final results will be announced May 16. Visit www.rogersgardens. com/gardencontest for more information.

? Hoag ranks in top 5% of hospitals nationwide

Hoag Memorial Hospital Presbyterian ranks among the top 5% of hospitals in America in terms of low mortality and complication rates, according to a study released last week by the ratings company HealthGrades.

For the third year in a row, Hoag received the Distinguished Hospital Award for Clinical Excellence, joining 268 other hospitals nationwide. According to HealthGrades, patients admitted to a hospital receiving this award are 27% less likely to face mortality and 5% less likely to suffer from a major complication.

“We are proud that our commitment to patient-centered care and to continually meeting and exceeding our own quality standards have placed Hoag in the top 5% of hospitals nationwide,” Hoag Chief Quality Officer Jack Cox said in a release.

— Michael Miller