ABC Keystone Merit Shop Spokesman December 2020

Merit Shop

December • 2020

The

Spokesman ABC Keystone Newsletter

Maximize Your ABC Membership Investment Join a Committee!

Opportunity Knocks

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Keystone Goes Green

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Protecting your business as you build it.

FIND OUR AGENTS

at DonegalGroup.com today!

ABC Keystone Leadership 2020 Executive Committee: CHAIR of the BOARD – Roger S. Brubaker, Meadow Valley Electric, Inc. CHAIR-ELECT – Cleo Weaver, Triangle Refrigeration Co. 1st VICE CHAIR – Keith L. Eldredge, CPA, RKL LLP

2nd VICE CHAIR – Steve Conway, Benchmark Construction Co., Inc. SECRETARY – John Lehmann, Poole Anderson Construction, LLC TREASURER – Timothy A. Kershner, CPA, Walz Group

IMMEDIATE PAST CHAIR – Douglas M. Dvorchak, ARM, Murray

2020 Board of Directors: Doug Detwiler, DeRock Electric Company Ed Engle, Smucker Company Brian Floyd, Gunn-Mowery, LLC Wayne Fuhrman, The Witmer Group Michael B. Funck, Wohlsen Construction Company John H. Hykes II, B & B Integrations Steven Kearns, James Craft & Son, Inc. Guy Kingree, Warfel Construction Company Michael D. Monaco, Mowery Benjamin Pratt, Esq., Kegel Kelin Litts & Lord LLP Jon Sensenig, Speedwell Construction, Inc. James Stephens, CFSP, Clark Associates, Inc. Bethany Tesché, Houck Services, Inc. Jan L. Wagner, Kinsley Construction, Inc. Thomas O. Williams, Esq., Reager & Adler, P.C.

G. David Sload, President-CEO ABC Keystone | 135 Shellyland Road, Manheim, PA 17545 (717) 653-8106 | abckeystone.org

The Merit Shop Spokesman is published 12 times a year by Associated Builders & Contractors, Keystone Chapter.

Articles of interest, member news, press releases, and advertising placement requests may be submitted to: Editor/Designer: Kristi Pronovost Director of Marketing & Communications ABC Keystone kristi@abckeystone.org (717) 653-8106

Social Media facebook.com/ABCKeystonePA LinkedIn.com/company/abckeystone @ABCKeystone @ABCKeystone

Merit Shop The

Spokesman Contents

3 Message from the Chair 5 Message from the President-CEO 6 Advocacy Update 7 Chapter Calendar 10 Mental Health Awareness 11 Golf Outing Photos 13 Ask an Attorney 15 New Members & Anniversaries 17 Committee Involvement 19 Member News 21 Young Professionals Spotlight

A Message from the Chair BY: ROGER S. BRUBAKER, ABC KEYSTONE 2020 CHAIR OF THE BOARD

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Opportunity Knocks

believe it goes without saying that 2020 rolled out differently than anyone could have predicted this time last year! The “Year of COVID” was certainly filled with many challenges and setbacks in our personal freedoms and financial successes. However, based on the high performance of our team at ABC Keystone, along with the continued commitment of our members, it is with great optimism, that I believe opportunity will be knocking on many doors in 2021.

Our state and federal legislative bodies increased the number of free enterprise candidates with wins on November 3, creating great potential for the merit shop's advocacy objectives regardless of the presidential outcome.

There is reason to believe ABC advocacy efforts will reap extensive rewards when we utilize this opportunity to take back the PA governorship in 2022! I am also pleased to report our PA State advocacy organization, ABC PA, has gone through a reorganization process this year. This has included drafting new bylaws and a renewed commitment among all five PA Chapters to work together, creating another opportunity for winning in Harrisburg, rather than just being “in the game.”

ABC Keystone apprenticeship training continues to evolve and expand. A new electrical curriculum was put in place this year and will soon be followed by a fresh look in other trades. An opportunity to expand our regional training should gain traction early next year as demand for training in construction trades continues to grow.

This year, our ABC Keystone staff stepped up during unprecedented times to raise the bar in member services, providing daily and weekly COVID-19 safety updates and going the extra mile by coordinating classes and events during this highly restrictive period. Their efforts, along with those of our committee chairs and member volunteers, have improved member engagement and retention as well as promoted new member growth during an extremely challenging period. Because of their hard work, ABC Keystone has an opportunity to increase membership and expand services for 2021.

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And finally, I must thank our Board of Directors! It has truly been an honor to serve as Chair of this passionate group in 2020. This dedicated team supported and approved new initiatives and expenditures, keeping our association in tune with member needs while safeguarding our investments and insuring compliance with state and federal regulations. The Board also approved the installation of solar panels on the Chapter training facility roof. This will reduce the cost of energy for the Chapter for many years to come, as well as provide an opportunity for our apprentices to see and work with an operating alternative energy system. Thank you for your dedication and service to our association.

So, now it is time to say THANK YOU, AGAIN, for making ABC Keystone one of the best chapters in the country!

Thank you for continuing the “It Factor” that has helped make this member-driven organization unique. This year certainly has had many unexpected challenges, and I am confident that Cleo Weaver, our incoming 2021 Board Chair, will continue leading our organization head on through future challenges and new opportunities!

Wishing you all a healthy and happy holiday, Roger Brubaker 2020 Chair of the Board

The ABC Keystone Chapter would like to thank Roger Brubaker, 2020 Chair of the Board, for his service and leadership during this past year.

Roger S. Brubaker 2020 Chair of the Board ABC Keystone Director of Construction Services Meadow Valley Electric, Inc. roger@mvegroup.com (717) 397-9600

A Message from the President-CEO BY: G. DAVID SLOAD, ABC KEYSTONE PRESIDENT - CEO

Keystone Goes Green...

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hen the ABC Keystone Board of Directors approved moving forward with our building expansion and renovations back in 2014, they did so with the priority of being good stewards of our resources and that of our energy consumption. The new building was designed and built with "green" in mind. In addition, there were components built in to accommodate future "green" initiatives.

When the building opened in the spring of 2015, it was quickly evident that many of these "green" features were incorporated. All site and shop lighting was done using LED fixtures. All new room lights were controlled with motion sensors, eliminating lights left on without someone in the space. Large expanses of glass were incorporated into the shop and classrooms, allowing those spaces to be used on certain days without lights. And all new HVAC equipment was designed to be energy efficient.

Renewable Energy LLC for this project. We will power, on average, between 60 and 65 percent of our electrical needs through this array. As we look forward, we will ultimately be saving energy costs.

In addition, this will give us live systems for our apprenticeship program to utilize as part of their learning experience.

ABC Keystone likes to be first. We were the first ABC Chapter to own their own building. I believe we are the first to incorporate solar energy. We like to lead, and we are setting a great example and doing our part for the environment. Thanks to you, the members, and our Board of Directors, ABC Keystone is always at the forefront. To quote Chair Roger Brubaker, “This is what contributes to the It Factor.”

As we have looked at our utility bills over the last five years, our cost to operate per square foot is lower than it was in our original building. But that’s not the end of the story. Back in 2014, we designed the shop roof to accommodate solar by having it sloped in the proper direction to maximize the sun shining on the panels. In addition, the structure was designed to carry the additional load of panels.

Unfortunately, the cost vs. payback in 2014 did not make sense.

Fast forward to the fall of 2020. As of December 3, the installation of a solar array will be completed and will be fully operational. We have entered into an agreement with ABC member Solar

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G. David Sload President-CEO dave@abckeystone.org (717) 653-8106

Advocacy Update BY: DAVID G. GREINEDER, IOM, ABC PENNSYLVANIA DIRECTOR OF GOVERNMENT AFFAIRS

What the General Election Results Mean for ABC

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he 2020 General Election is now behind us. Much like in 2016, the polls were wrong in many respects. In a year when Democrats were projected to win big, the “blue wave” flopped. Democratic operatives were looking to flip control of state legislatures to dictate redistricting processes next year.

As it turns out, only two state legislative chambers changed control, both in New Hampshire, and both flipped from Democrat to Republican. Overall, Republicans outperformed expectations, gaining seats both in the U.S. Congress and the Pennsylvania General Assembly.

Regarding the Pennsylvania congressional delegation, all incumbents won their re-election, keeping the numbers at nine Republicans to nine Democrats. Democrats will keep their majority in the U.S. House, but with a razor thin majority, as Republicans picked up at least seven seats. In the U.S. Senate, things get interesting. No candidate running for Georgia’s special election and re-election races reached the staterequired 50% threshold. Therefore, another special election will be held on January 5, 2021, which will decide control of the Senate. If the Republicans win one or both senate races, they retain their majority. If Democrats win both seats, the Senate will be 50-50, and Democrats will take control, as Vice President-Elect Kamala Harris would serve as the tie-breaker vote. There are vast amounts of resources pouring into the state of Georgia on both sides, including ABC National. If you are interested in getting involved or donating to the cause, please visit freeenterprisealliance.org/donate.

At the state level, Republicans grew their majority by four, as they held onto one vacant seat and flipped three other seats.

The breakdown in the House will be 113 Republicans to 90 Democrats. In the Senate, there remains one outstanding race in the western part of the state. As it currently stands, Republicans keep their majority with 28 Republicans, 20 Democrats, and one Independent that caucuses with the Republicans. If the Republican prevails in the western district race, the Republican majority will grow to 29 seats.

start the relationship-building process. As we push forward with our agenda, rest assured I am committed to excellence and will work hard to protect the interests of the commercial construction industry. My key objectives for the coming year are as follows: 1. Designing legislative and political action plans that are strategic and effective 2. Creating strong messaging and informative collateral content on our issues 3. Providing timely information to ABC of Pennsylvania so local leaders can make informed decisions and provide input on public policy matters 4. Partnering with ABC National to better coordinate and maximize advocacy efforts 5. Planning successful legislative events throughout the year The policy issues important to the merit shop are complicated.

To be successful, we must build mutual support, teamwork, and partnerships between the chapters. As we reflect on where we are today, and where are to go in the future, my challenge to ABC members is to enhance the “loudness” of our combined voices.

It makes a difference.

If you are not signed-up to receive email alerts, please download the “ABC Action App” from the app store on your mobile device, or at abc.org/abcaction.

The PA General Assembly will begin a new two-year session on January 5, 2021. A new session brings opportunities for ABC members to introduce themselves to freshman Legislators and 6

Chapter Calendar - Events, Education & Training Register Today!

12/2 - Virtual Training: Microsoft® Office Training Excel® 2016: Intermediate II 12/8 - Leadership v. Management - Part of the Leadership Development Series Starts 12/8 - Medical Gas and Vacuum Piping Systems: Installers Certification Course ASSE 6010 12/10 - Mobile Elevating Work Platform (Aerial Lift) Training 12/10 - ABC Keystone’s Excellence in Construction Awards - Virtual Celebration!

12/15 - Competent Person for Excavation and Trenching 12/16 - Pay, Benefits, and Other Rewards Part of the Human Resources Management Academy 12/16 - Microsoft® Office Training Excel® 2016: Advanced 12/17 - Risk Management and Problem Solving Part of the Superintendent Training Program (STP)

Save the Date: 2021: 2/10 Economic Outlook Breakfast with Anirban Basu 3/3

1/8/21 - Mobile Elevating Work Platform (Aerial Lift) Training Meet the Generals Starts 1/11 - Journey & Master Level Electrical License Exam Prep 1/12 - Communication for Success Part I - Discovering Your DiSC Style Part of the Leadership Development Series 1/12 - Communication for Success Part II - Communication is Everything! Part of the Leadership Development Series 1/13 - All Committee Kick-off Virtual Event 1/20 - Safety, Security, Health, and Leaves of Absence Management Part of the Human Resources Management Academy 1/21 - Executive Leader Contractor Peer Group (CEO/Owners/Executive Leadership) Starts 1/25 - Medical Gas and Vacuum Piping Systems: Installers Certification Course ASSE 6010 1/26 - OSHA Recordkeeping 1/26 - Combating Cyber Crime Starts 1/27 - Basic Blueprint Reading for Support Staff Starts 1/28 - Leadership & Motivation - Part of the Superintendent Training Program (STP)

Discover more events, education & training & register online: abckeystone.org

Coronavirus (COVID-19) Safety Update: Your health and safety are our number one priority. Total registration numbers may need to be limited to observe safety requirements, and early registration is encouraged. Thank you in advance for your patience and cooperation.

We Can Customize Training for You!

We Strive to Meet Your Training Needs - Contact Us Today!

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(717) 653-8106 | Barbara Holtzapple (Career Development) & Kevin Keith (Safety)

SAVE with AIA & ABC! Announcing NEW Partnership - SAVE on AIA Contract Documents!

As an ABC Keystone Member, you can now SAVE 20% on hard copy AIA Contract documents!

Plus...

Become an AIA Pennsylvania Allied Member (ABC Keystone + AIA) and gain even more: • Listing in the Allied Member Directory on aiapa.org • Additional discounts on contract documents and advertising • Dedicated communications to members • AIA member rate registration for events • And more!

Contact Michelle McKenna at mmckenna@aiapa.org for more information.

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Classes are held at the Lancaster County Career & Technology Center (LCCTC) Brownstown Campus (Snyder & Metzler Roads, Brownstown)

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Classes Starting in January! Contact cindyd@abckeystone.org 9

Dig into the

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Mental Health Awareness BY: CAL BEYER, CONSTRUCTION EXECUTIVE CONTRIBUTOR

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Removing Emotional Masks in Construction

onstruction workers are known for being tough and strong-willed in the face of challenges. Everyone can appreciate the strength and stoicism of a tradesperson confidently accepting a gauntlet thrown down to achieve a schedule, sequence, or safety production milestone.

Some people wear masks because they fear rejection or are concerned that others will not like or respect their “real” selves, while others wear masks because they never learned to be comfortable with who they are, perhaps to cover feelings of shame or embarrassment.

An image often seen in the industry is one of stone-faced workers showing no emotions regardless of the circumstance.

Through the expressionless looks, they seem to be saying “game on—challenge accepted.” It is easy to accept what is visible on the surface without wondering what they’re really thinking deep down underneath the determined, steely-eyed looks.

Removing emotional masks requires honesty and vulnerability.

A major benefit of taking off one’s emotional mask is being honest with one’s self and others. It is exhausting to keep up the appearance that everything is fine, knowing deep down that it is not.

Wearing face coverings during COVID-19 has become a reality at work, making the stoic expressions of these workers even more difficult to read. These masks offer protection from the transmission of disease and also afford a degree of self-expression.

For example, take the decision someone might make to wear a mask printed with the logo of their favorite sports team.

Depending on what team someone is representing and what city they are in, reactions may differ widely. By proudly displaying the logo of a rival team, one is inviting, expecting, and even enjoying some banter by showing loyalty to their team. However, if someone wears the logo of the hometown team despite their secret loyalty to a rival, it merely would be to fit in, gain social acceptance, and receive positive compliments on their apparent team of choice. They would be masking their true feelings and would not be being real to themselves or to others.

Most everyone has heard the expression “wearing emotional masks.” When someone wears an emotional mask, they are similarly seeking protection by disguising their real feelings.

They’re projecting that everything is fine, even when it is not.

Some people wear masks to block out the pain of sadness, disappointment, or disillusionment with their lives. Some wear masks to pretend to be someone or something that they are not, possibly to compensate for some perceived shortcoming.

Rick Warren, author of the book “The Purpose-Driven Life,” said “wearing a mask wears you out. Faking it is fatiguing. The most exhausting activity is pretending to be what you know you aren’t.”

Removing one’s emotional mask is a journey of gut-wrenching self-discovery that begins with honesty and vulnerability.

Author Alan Moore explains: “you wear a mask for so long, you forget who you were beneath it.”

When people accept themselves as imperfect people in an imperfect world, they can accept the need for personal growth and development. The best path to personal growth is to take off the emotional masks. Anyone wishing to become a more authentic person must take the first step of recognizing the emotional mask they’re wearing. Understand why the mask was being worn and acknowledge that the mask served its purpose of protecting the wearer.

Of course, each person can only control him or her own self.

There is no way to force someone to take down their walls and open up, but leading by example can spark a powerful chain reaction that can revolutionize an entire office, or even an entire company. When someone chooses to remove their emotional mask and be vulnerable, they signal to others that it’s okay to bring their most authentic selves to work. By changing the culture and erasing the stigma around mental health, the industry can change, and even save, lives. So, let’s all start today and remove the mask—and in the process, make it okay to not be okay.

Reprinted from Construction Executive, October 2020, a publication of Associated Builders and Contractors. Copyright 2020. All rights reserved.

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Thank You for Attending!

ABC Keystone's Golf Outing,10/21/20 Congratulations to our winners!

AM Round: 1st Place (61) Leer Electric, Inc. Jeff Metzler Dean Morrow Jared Rimmer Mike Leach 2nd Place (62) OSS Health Chris Beaverson Mike Enriquez Bob Burton Tyler Harmon 3rd Place (63) H.B. McClure Company Jason Urich Adam Smith Eric Korpics Cody Feeser Longest Drive, Hole #3: Drew Kelley, OSS Health Longest Drive, Hole #18: Jason Hear, Trout CPA Closest to the Pin, Hole #5: James P. Craft, James Craft & Son, Inc. Closest to the Pin, Hole #12: Chris Hartman, Trout CPA (Hole In One!)

PM Round 1st Place (58) – won by match of cards!

Centurion Construction Group, LLC Nate Book Ted Pavelic Chris Ritchie Troy Clark 2nd Place (58) JB Concrete, Inc. Eran Wills Jesse Brown Cory Kersey John Krieser 3rd Place (60) Engle-Hambright & Davies, Inc. Mark Kreider Kyle Wimer Josh Landis Scott Garber Longest Drive, Hole #3: Jesse Brown, JB Concrete, Inc. Longest Drive, Hole #18: Jesse Brown, JB Concrete, Inc. Closest to the Pin, Hole #5: Andrew Showalter, Restoration Relief, Inc. Closest to the Pin, Hole #12: Scott Wengrenovich, Murray

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Presented by:

Ask an Attorney BY: MICHAEL METZ - TOPODAS, PARTNER, COHEN SEGLIAS PALLAS GREENHALL & FURMAN, P.C.

Construction Claims - An Overview

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ost contractors hope their projects will proceed efficiently, within budget, on time, and, most importantly, without needing to file a claim against any of the other parties working on the job. Unfortunately, the reality often proves otherwise. Claims come in all kinds of forms – delay, extra work, acceleration, inefficiency – but essentially involve recovering any type of entitled cost or time impact. Claims can possibly risk jeopardizing the cooperation and good relationships among project stakeholders necessary to get the job done successfully.

Sometimes, however, that necessary cooperation cannot overcome losing money undeservedly, making the claim a business necessity. Also, pursuing a claim under a construction contract often involves a process that can seem overwhelming.

Neither concern, however, should keep contractors from bringing claims to ensure they receive what they bargained for in their contract, especially if contractors follow these key rules: preservation, preparation, and presentation.

Taking the right steps to preserve, prepare, and present claims not only facilitates communication with others on

the job about real concerns, but it also puts the contractor making the claim on a path to ensuring its fair treatment under the contract.

Definition of a Claim A claim involves a request for an adjustment to the contract’s terms, usually seeking additional time or money (or both) to perform the work required. Most construction contracts define this term similarly. For example, AIA Document A201-2017, General Conditions, states a “claim is a demand or assertion by one of the parties seeking, as a matter of right, an change in the Contract Time, or other relief with respect to the terms of the Contract.”

Types of Claims Types of claims are organized by their direction: up-thechain or down-the-chain. “Up-the-chain” claims come from a lower tier entity, often a subcontractor, bringing a claim against its general contractor, usually seeking additional compensation, whether through time or money. For example, a mechanical subcontractor may seek payment for extra piping installed beyond what project plans and specifications called for, especially where the general contractor or owner already rejected the corresponding change order request. Similarly, where the general contractor or owner (or both) causes the mechanical subcontractor to spend a longer time performing its work than what the subcontract stated, the subcontractor potentially has a delay claim.

Down the chain claims come from a higher tier entity, often an owner or general contractor, seeking to recover losses a subcontractor caused. For example, where an electrical subcontractor installs a switchgear that does not comply with project specifications or differs from an approved submittal, the owner or GC may seek to recover the cost to remedy the defective work. Also, where an owner assesses liquidated damages against a GC for failing to complete the project by the contracted deadline, the GC may, in turn, seek to recover those charges from late-performing subcontractors.

Preserving Claims The right a contractor has to pursue a claim depends as much on how the contractor pursues the claim, as the claim’s merits. This makes it critically important for a contractor to preserve the claim through proper notices, releases, and records. Almost every construction contract has notice requirements with precise deadlines. Under the AIA A201-2017, for instance, a party must notify the other party of a claim within twenty-one days of the situation creating the claim—a rejected change order request, a demand to accelerate, etc. Although in certain jurisdictions failing to provide notice does not forever bar the claim, proper notice makes a claim easier, and less costly, to pursue.

Claims can also be lost via the monthly lien waivers and releases often required to accompany payment applications.

Although subcontractors and contractors often need to sign these to receive payments owed, such releases should expressly exclude any pending or unresolved claims, such as change orders and time extension requests.

Preserving the right to a claim only makes up half the battle; contractors should also make sure to preserve the amount of a claim. Careful contemporaneous records of actual costs provide solid evidence in the face of higher tier contractors’ challenges to claim amounts.

Preparing Claims Preparing a claim does not begin in the day or so before it is submitted. Instead, it involves a process that starts the moment the claim arises. Contractors making a claim should track all associated costs, both direct (such as labor and materials) and indirect (such as overhead). Using codes or other designations in project accounting records can make it easier to identify these costs when assembling the claim for final submission. All back-up documentation, such as invoices and time sheets, should be similarly coded or designated for easy access. Ultimately, the records required to support a claim will vary on a case-by-case basis, so consulting a claims expert and counsel will ensure the claim preparation process goes smoothly.

Presenting Claims

total costs. The report or letter is accompanied by volumes of back-up documentation and data. After being submitted, the claim is reviewed by the other party and sometimes the architect. Following that review, but before a decision is made on the claim, the parties on both sides of the claim should convene. That meeting can include reviewing records for accuracy, seeking to resolve the claim, or investigating other project stakeholders involved. For example, in a meeting between a subcontractor and the GC about a delay claim, the discussion may include whether the owner caused some or all of the schedule impacts and should bear some liability. Like with preparing a claim, presenting one can benefit greatly from having an expert and counsel participate. With their involvement, should the claim be denied, the appropriate team is informed and prepared to move forward promptly with the dispute resolution process.

Conclusion This overview provides a framework for further discussion about the finer issues and complexities involved in construction project claims. As no two projects are alike, each claim requires a unique approach.

Michael Metz-Topodas is a partner in the Harrisburg office of Cohen Seglias Pallas Greenhall & Furman P.C., where he focuses his practice on construction law and construction litigation, including defending clients against OSHA citations and counseling clients on OSHA compliance and workplace safety. He can be reached at mmt@cohenseglias.com or (717) 234-5530.

Michael Metz-Topodas Cohen Seglias Pallas Greenhall & Furman P.C. mmt@cohenseglias.com

With the right to assert the claim established by proper notice, protected by properly limited waivers, and preserved by appropriate records, presenting the claim becomes a more user-friendly process. Typically, contractors prepare a letter or report outlining the events leading to the claim, the contractual basis for the claim, and the calculation of 14

Welcome to ABC's Newest Members!

Thank you for your support of the merit shop mission!

HOEM Incorporated Zach Grove, Business Analyst 1760 Toronita Street York, PA 17402 ph. (717) 430-4341 zachgrove@hoem-inc.com Sponsor: Steven Kearns, James Craft & Son, Inc.

McNally Construction, LLC Sean McNally, Owner/PM 35 Ashley Circle P.O. Box 151 Gilbertsville, PA 19525 ph. (610) 473-2892 mcnallyconstruction1 @comcast.net Sponsor: Guy Kingree, Warfel Construction Company

Lancaster County Motors Nickolas Pitarra, Commercial Vehicle Manager 5260 Main Street East Petersburg, PA 17520 ph. (717) 569-2100 npitarra@lcmotors.net Sponsor: Jon Sensenig, Speedwell Construction, Inc.

"When I’m in need of products and services, I always go to ABC members first."

Zook Masonry, Inc. Willie Zook, President 1598 Reading Road Rear Mohnton, PA 19540 ph. (717) 488-2050 wkzook@ptd.net Sponsor: Joe Finkey, Martin's Flooring, Inc.

- John H. Hykes II, B&B Integrations

View a searchable membership directory at abckeystone.org Download the mobile app at the App Store or Google Play!

Happy Anniversary!

Thank you for your continued support of the merit shop!

Join us in congratulating these members celebrating milestone anniversaries in December 2020:

60 Years: Fulton Bank

45 Years:

Atlantic Caisson Corp.

35 Years:

United Electric Supply

30 Years:

15 Years:

Paramount Contracting, Inc. Real Services, Inc.

Triangle Communications, Inc.

1 Year:

25 Years:

Armstrong Relocation

Murry Management Co.

American Micro Industries, Inc. Indoor City

NEFCO, Inc.

Pletcher Fire Protection, LLC

The Premier Resource Group

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To learn more, visit abckeystone.org/member-benefits or contact Mike Bachman, Director of Membership: mike@abckeystone.org

Your ABC Keystone Membership Can Pay for Itself!

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Maximize Your ABC Membership Investment:

Gain Impressions Through Committee Involvement

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BY: MIKE BACHMAN, DIRECTOR OF MEMBERSHIP

hether you’ve joined ABC Keystone for skilled trade apprenticeship training and education, for safety services, to support the merit shop philosophy and free enterprise – maybe all of the above and more – there is a fundamental value in all of this: The business development connections forged with your fellow ABC Keystone members.

Engaging with ABC's membership pays dividends many times over, and a sometimes-overlooked, no-cost avenue is through committee involvement. Keystone’s eight standing committees (listed on page 18) address all of ABC's functional areas, and there truly is a committee for everyone.

Many of ABC’s most satisfied members utilize committee involvement to increase their impressions (one-on-one conversations) with ABC members. It’s a proven strategy that is standing up to the challenges presented by COVID-19. "Our Membership Committee attendance has even increased this year due in part to the new virtual accessibility. This remains a critical and robust monthly connection that we, as members, can count on,” says Guy Kingree, Warfel Construction Company.

Our Members Say It Best!

Hear from three member companies that are making dozens of impressions with their fellow members each year – at no additional cost – by being a part of ABC committees!

Quality Buildings, LLC

Contractor Member since 2016 with five team members engaged on ABC committees; 60 impressions per year

"Since Quality Buildings has been involved with ABC Keystone, we have experienced 150% growth as a company.

Our committee interaction has been invaluable in building relationships within the industry and in understanding how we, as a company, might be able to contribute. As a subcontractor, having a member of our company on the Safety Committee has helped us stay on the same page regarding safety challenges that our general contractor customers are experiencing.

My recommendation is to 'get Involved.' If you are strictly a paying member, the payoff is minimal, but, if you are an active member, the payoff can be far more than the dollars invested in membership."

- Elmer Zook, President

Miller Brothers Staffing Solutions LLC

Supplier Member since 2013 with three team members engaged on ABC committees; 36 impressions per year

"Committee involvement has been integral to our business development – it truly keeps us in front of our fellow members.

These meetings provide for a monthly conversational exchange with our clients – ABC members. We have the opportunity to hear their issues, and it keeps us ahead of the curve by being able to anticipate and meet their needs. Serving on ABC committees also allows us to give back to the association that protects our livelihood."

- Linden Levey, Account Executive Engle-Hambright & Davies, Inc.

Associate Member since 1967 with three team members engaged on ABC committees; 36 impressions per year

"Involvement in committees demonstrates EHD’s commitment to commercial construction and ABC’s contractor membership. We hear first-hand about developing construction issues monthly from our committee conversations. I encourage our young staff members to enroll on committees – it expands their horizons and helps with leadership development. These meetings are a valuable, monthly networking opportunity for us."

- Dave Oblender, Vice President

Maximize Your Membership Value in 2021!

The Strategy: • Enroll one (two, three or more) of your team members on an ABC committee. Committee membership is open to all!

• Dedicate one hour of your time per month.

The Immediate Results: • Gain twelve impressions annually for each employee enrolled in an ABC committee, putting you in monthly conversations with fellow ABC Members.

• Exponentially increase these impressions by enrolling two, three, or more committee members.

• Become an integral part of carrying out ABC policies as an in-the-know member.

Your opportunity for engagement awaits you in 2021, and we look forward to seeing you!

See the committee descriptions on the next page and sign up today!

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Register online (abckeystone.org) for the All-Committee Kick-off Virtual Event on January 13, 2021.

ABC Keystone Committee and Task Force Descriptions Education:

Develops and provides course offerings in management and continuing education; assists our members in the growth and development of their workforce, from support staff all the way to the company CEO. Meetings held the first Tuesday of every month at 8:00 am.

Events:

Develops and delivers programming such as the Economic Outlook Breakfast, Golf Outing, Clay Shoot, Meet the Generals, Excellence in Construction Awards Program, mixers and other events to provide quality business development opportunities for members.

Meetings held the first Thursday of every month at 7:30 am.

Government Affairs:

Promotes, protects and defends the ABC position on the legal, legislative and regulatory fronts; establishes and maintains strong working relationships with lawmakers; develops and strengthens industry-wide grassroots advocacy efforts to educate, elect, and encourage participation in the political and legislative processes.

Meetings held the second Thursday of every month at 7:30 am.

Membership:

Works to actively engage ABC members to increase their involvement and improve their overall ABC experience; identifies and pursues new membership growth opportunities.

Meetings held the second Tuesday of every month at 7:30 am.

Safety:

Promotes safe and healthy work environments for member firms; conducts quarterly Safety Forums for safety and HR professionals and contractors; monitors OSHA regulation developments; promotes and facilitates the STEP (Safety Training and Evaluation Process) program.

Meeting held the third Tuesday of every month at 7:30 am.

Workforce Development:

Continues to showcase careers in construction and the talents of our member employees; builds bridges between industry and educators on skills needed, plus careers available for K-12 and post-secondary students; utilizes our state-of-the-art training facility as a destination for school in-service days and career days.

Meetings held the 2nd Thursday of every month at 7:30 am.

Young Professionals:

Develops and provides networking activities, leadership and educational opportunities, and community service outreach for those currently in their first 10 years in the industry and who are employees of ABC Keystone member firms.

Meetings held the first Thursday of every month at 7:30 am.

(Off-site meetings held in March, June, and September from 3:00 pm - 5:00 pm.)

C.O.R.E. Task Force:

Oversees, promotes and works to raise awareness about the benefits of the annual sponsorship, marketing, events and training programs (Contacts, Opportunities, Resources & Education).

Committee meeting schedules above are subject to change at the beginning of each year.

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#ABCMeritShopProud

The Latest ABC Keystone Member News Barley Snyder Forms Crisis Management Service Team To help businesses be prepared and to help businesses through potentially catastrophic times, Barley Snyder is pleased to announce it has formed a Crisis Management Service Team. Firm partner Jennifer Craighead Carey, the chair of the new group, said the attorneys involved with the group have always done crisis management work in their own practices. The new group pools those resources into one convenient location. “The crisis management experience the attorneys in this group have amassed is extensive and impressive,” Craighead Carey said. “Whether it be in government investigations, cybersecurity or any number of other common crisis scenarios, these attorneys have worked with businesses as a partner to navigate them through their tough times.”

Boyer & Ritter CPAs and Consultants Welcomes Senior Associate and Four Starting Associates Five new associates, including a senior accountant with experience helping small businesses with employee benefit plans audits, have joined Boyer & Ritter. Joining Boyer & Ritter, one of Central Pennsylvania’s largest accounting firms, are: Senior Associate, Kailee A. Hirschbock; and Associates, Charles Sabol; Conrad D. Martin; Ashley Ingram; and Nathan Moshgat.

Mowery Hires Senior Project Manager Mowery is pleased to announce the addition of Brett Garman to the team. “With over 21 years' experience in construction management and operations, Brett’s skillsets allow him to analyze project data and take action accordingly to ensure safety standards, deadlines, and goals are met, which will be invaluable to not only our team, but clients as well,” said David Cross, owner and president of Mowery. Brett Garman joins the operations team in his role as senior project manager. “We’re excited to welcome Brett to the Mowery team and look forward to seeing how his expertise will benefit our team and clients,” added Cross.

ENR MidAtlantic Recognizes Two Poole Anderson Projects with 2020 Regional Project Awards Poole Anderson has been awarded Best Project in Higher Education/Research and Finalist for Project of the Year by ENR MidAtlantic for their Franklin & Marshall Winter Visual Arts Center. In addition, Poole Anderson has been given an Award of Merit for their The Valley Apartments & Townhomes project in the category of Residential/Hospitality.

SEK, CPAs & Advisors to Acquire Stambaugh Ness Not-for-Profit/ Governmental Practice The Members of SEK, CPAs & Advisors (SEK) are pleased to share that effective December 1, 2020, SEK will acquire the not-for-profit/governmental practice of Stambaugh Ness, a CPA firm located in York, PA that serves clients in 40+ states.

Krista M. Gardner, CPA is the Managing Director of the notfor-profit/governmental practice at Stambaugh Ness and will join SEK as a Member of the Firm. Erin M. Fike also works exclusively with not-for-profit and governmental clients and will join SEK as a Senior Associate. Gardner and Fike are based in York and will serve clients of all South-Central Pennsylvania offices. This addition strengthens SEK’s not-for-profit and governmental practices, two of the firm’s core industry specializations, expanding its ability to provide meaningful guidance and customized solutions to those clients. “Erin and Krista bring depth, experience, and a culture fit to our already strong Not-for-profit and Governmental Teams. This addition will help us continue to meet the changing needs of our clients now and in the future,” states Managing Member John Schnitzer, CPA. “We are excited to welcome these talented professionals to our team.”

If you have news to share, please send your press release to:

Kristi Pronovost, Director of Marketing & Communications: kristi@abckeystone.org 19 13

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In Memoriam:

SEK, CPAs & Advisors Founder Merle S. Elliott Has Passed Away With great respect and sadness, SEK announces the passing of one of the firm’s founders, Merle S. Elliott. He passed on November 4, 2020, at 90 years old.

Smith Elliott Kearns & Company, LLC (rebranded as SEK, CPAs & Advisors in 2018) began its operations in March 1963 in Hagerstown when founding partners Merle S. Elliott and Earl J. Smith combined their practices. Elliott served as Managing Member of the firm from 1963-1989.

In addition to building the firm and serving the Tri-State business community, Elliott held leadership positions in the CPA profession on a national level. Throughout his career, Elliott did pro-bono work for many nonprofit organizations.

His servant heart is evidenced by the impact he made on the community.

Elliott retired from the firm in 1995 and continued his volunteerism, serving on many boards and receiving numerous awards for his efforts.

The ABC Keystone Chapter shares our deepest condolences to Merle Elliott's family and the entire SEK, CPAs & Advisors team.

Merle S. Elliott Founder, SEK, CPAs & Advisors

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Young Professionals Spotlight

Meet Brad!

What role do you play in your organization?

I am a Project Manager at Wohlsen Construction Company. I manage commercial construction projects over $2M with an industry focus in Senior Care.

Brad with his wife Steph, daughter Nora, family, and their dog, Kimber

Why do you wake up and go to work every day?

I wake up and go to work every day because I am passionate about what I do. The construction industry is such a people-centered industry, and I love working with people. I enjoy meeting new people, making new contacts and building relationships with other folks who feel the same way I do. I also enjoy watching our teams build buildings for our clients, which provides a very tangible object at the end of a project. It's hard to not stand back and be proud of the work our teams do to build a client's dream building.

As a Young Professional, how has your involvement with ABC Keystone helped you?

Being a part of the YP Committee has helped introduce me to new networking opportunities, hone my professional skills, influence our industry with a group of peers, and more. I think the greatest opportunity for me has been to push myself outside my comfort zone with networking. I encourage other YPs and co-workers of mine to get out there and meet other people in the industry, because it helps you grow your people skills while building an industry network that has real benefits.

What is your favorite or inspirational quote?

“If you want to be an elite warrior, you'd better get really, really good at helping the person to the left of you and helping the person to the right of you. The world is too dangerous, and the world is too difficult to think you can do these things alone. Now, who are you going to ask for help? When are you going to accept help when it is offered? Learn that skill. It will be the single most important thing you learn in your life.” – Simon Sinek 21

Brad Lefever Project Manager Wohlsen Construction Company YP Committee Member blefever@wohlsen.com

Where is your favorite place in the world?

My favorite destination is in Washington State. There is a small island called Bainbridge off the coast of Seattle, WA. You must ride the ferry back and forth, which is a helpful way to force yourself to slow down, have a cup of coffee and just enjoy the view. It's a wonderful little town with good food and shops. Also, it has some great hiking trails and rock beaches at which to fish. My wife and I have talked many times about retiring to that location.

2020 2021

C. .R.E. Contacts • Opportunities • Resources • Education

Build Your Business with C.O.R.E.

Maximize Your FLEX Credits - Choose Your Level: DIAMOND LEVEL: $15,000**

Valued at $18,750

FLEX Credits............................... $6,500

PREMIER LEVEL: $7,150

Valued at $10,000 Best Value!

FLEX Credits............................... $4,520

GOLD LEVEL: $2,650

Valued at $3,300

FLEX Credits............................... $1,370 Full listing of C.O.R.E. level benefits available online at abckeystone.org

SAPPHIRE Level: $10,500

2021 C.O.R.E. Levels

Valued at $13,000

FLEX Credits............................... $5,150

PLATINUM LEVEL: $4,650

Valued at $5,800

FLEX Credits............................... $2,620

SILVER LEVEL: $1,650

Valued at $1,900

FLEX Credits.................................. $940

BRONZE LEVEL: $1,250

Valued at $1,255

*MSTRC: 5% of your C.O.R.E. sponsorship will go to the Merit Shop Training and Research Center, Inc. **

Diamond Level exclusive to one member firm from each classification (General/Specialty Contractor, Supplier, Associate). First-come, first-served.

2020 sponsors have first right of refusal.

2021 C.O.R.E. FLEX Credits must be used in 2021

FLEX Credits.................................. $725

Gain Exposure and Reach Your Target Audience!

Available Exclusively to ABC Keystone Members: Maximize marketing, education and training opportunities | One convenient package No additional sponsorship solicitations in 2021 | Benefits provided at a major discount

Use Your FLEX Dollars on Chapter Education, Training & Services:

Digital & Print Advertising* | Education | Training | Events Sponsorships | Apprenticeship | Safety Services

The ABC Keystone C.O.R.E. Sponsorship Program is a convenient, value added, marketing, events, education and training package that allows member companies to increase their exposure in the chapter while saving money and making sponsorship decisions once for the entire year.

Learn more and sign up online: https://abckeystone.org/core-program/ Questions? Contact: emily@abckeystone.org

*Membership Directory ads excluded

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