November 2025_Spokesman

November 2025

A Monthly Publication of ABC Keystone

Celebrating Our Apprentices and the Future of Our Workforce

ABC KEYSTONE LEADERSHIP 2025 EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

PROUDLY PUBLISHED

BY ABC KEYSTONE 3

Message from the Chair

5 From the President-CEO 7

Advocacy Update

8 Construction Wars

Chair of the Board

Guy Kingree, III Benchmark Construction Co., Inc.

Chair-Elect

Steven Kearns James Craft & Son, Inc.

1st Vice Chair

Ed Engle Smucker Company

2nd Vice Chair

Jeff Witmer Pathway Business Advisors

Secretary

Robb Beiler Wohlsen Construction Company

Treasurer

Timothy A. Kershner, CPA Walz Group

Immediate Past Chair

John Lehmann Poole Anderson Construction, LLC

2025 BOARD OF DIRECTORS

10 Fall Regional Construction Wake-Up Calls

Corbin Beittel

Warfel Construction Company

Jeff Bright

Offit Kurman

11 Ask An Accountant

Steve Conway

Pyramid Construction Services, LLC A Quandel Company

13 Apprenticeship Update

Aimée Deraco

Brubaker

Scott Duke

The Witmer Group

14 STEP Participants

Michael L. Fiore

Leonard S. Fiore, Inc.

Brian Floyd

MPB Insurance & Risk Management

17 New Members

Ken Funk

Arthur Funk & Sons, Inc.

18 Calendar of Events

John H. Hykes, II

B&B Integrations

Anthony Leer

Leer Electric, Inc.

Michael Metz-Topodas

Saul Ewing LLP

Patrick Snyder

Peoples Security Bank & Trust

Lee L. Summers, Jr.

C Mechanical Services

Kevin VanPelt

S&T Bank

Jan L. Wagner

Wagman Construction, Inc.

Scott Wengrenovich

Murray

20 Merit Shop Proud 22 Anniversaries

G. David Sload, President-CEO

Manheim Office 135 Shellyland Rd. Manheim, PA 17545

Howard Office 898 N. Eagle Valley Rd. Howard, PA 16841 Harrisburg Office 800 North Third St., Suite 407 Harrisburg, PA 17102

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

Articles of interest, member news, press releases, and advertising placement requests may be submitted to the editor: Rebecca Wolf Director of Marketing & Communications ABC Keystone rebecca@abckeystone.org | (717) 653-8106

MESSAGE FROM THE CHAIR THE NEXT GENERATION: CELEBRATING OUR APPRENTICES AND THE FUTURE OF OUR WORKFORCE BY: GUY KINGREE, III

As fall settles in and the school year is in full swing, it’s the perfect time to reflect on the incredible role that education and training play in shaping our industry’s future. Each autumn, new apprentices walk through the doors of ABC Keystone’s training center, ready to take the next step in their careers and join the ranks of the most skilled and dedicated professionals in construction. These men and women represent the future of our industry — a future built on hard work, pride, and the unmatched value of craftsmanship.

At ABC Keystone, we continue to set the standard for workforce development across Pennsylvania. Our apprenticeship programs are second to none, combining classroom learning with hands-on experience and mentorship from some of the best in the business. This blend of education and real-world training prepares our apprentices not just to build projects, but to build careers filled with purpose and opportunity. Each year, we see their dedication and determination firsthand, and it’s inspiring to witness the next generation carry the torch for the merit shop tradition.

In October, we had the privilege of hosting Construction Wars, a signature ABC Keystone event that gives middle school students a chance to step into the trades for the very first time. Over three days, hundreds of students rotated through hands-on learning stations where they built projects, worked with tools, and met real craft professionals. For many, it was their first time picking up a hammer or wiring an outlet—and for some, it may have been the spark that ignited a lifelong passion. Events like this show that our outreach efforts are working.

More and more young people are discovering that construction offers fulfilling, stable, and meaningful careers.

The shift in perception around career paths is undeniable. As college costs rise and job satisfaction in traditional office settings declines, the trades are becoming increasingly attractive. Construction offers something unique: tangible results, teamwork, and pride in leaving behind something lasting. Through initiatives like our apprenticeship programs and Construction Wars, ABC Keystone is helping students and families alike recognize that success doesn’t have to mean a four-year degree; it can mean mastering a skill, leading a crew, and building communities that endure for generations.

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Of course, this effort doesn’t happen in a vacuum.

It takes the dedication of our entire membership to mentor, hire, and support apprentices and young workers. Your commitment ensures that ABC Keystone remains a leader in workforce development,— not just for today’s projects, but for tomorrow’s prosperity.

Whether you’re training the next superintendent, attending a class, or volunteering at an event, you are playing a direct role in shaping the future of our industry.

As we head into the close of another productive year, let’s celebrate the incredible work being done to strengthen our pipeline of talent. Our apprentices, our educators, and our members together represent the very best of what ABC Keystone stands for: opportunity, excellence, and community. With continued investment in education, leadership, and Total Human Health, we aren’t just building structures— we’re building people. And that’s the most important foundation of all.

2026 ECONOMIC OUTLOOK BREAKFAST FEBRUARY 4 | 7 AM - 10 AM PRESENTED BY

Anirban Basu

ABC Chief Economist Spooky Nook Sports Manheim, PA

REGISTER TODAY AT ABCKEYSTONE.ORG SPONSORSHIPS AVAILABLE

FROM THE PRESIDENT-CEO TECHNOLOGY…ARE YOU ON THE CUTTING EDGE? BY: G. DAVID SLOAD

Let’s start by saying I think the most probable answer to this question is “no.” The fact is that no matter how long you have been in this industry or how long you may continue to be in this industry, technology and how it is used will change. When I started in this industry computers were mainly used for accounting and billing. We needed a 10’ x 12” room just to accommodate the hardware being used. Today we wear computers on our wrists.

Our challenge today vs. when I entered this industry is the speed with which things change. We used to have time to accept the changes, learn how to use the new devices and apply their upgrades to be more efficient.

Today some technology changes daily. Look at AI. The more it is used, the faster the data and information is updated, which creates more solutions and betterquality outputs.

ABC Keystone is also behind the curve with new technologies. We are learning and trying to keep up.

In 2025, we formed the Technology Committee. This first year we were able to connect with vendors and learn what is in the marketplace. On October 22, the committee hosted our second annual Technology Conference. Our Keynote speaker provided interesting, exciting and in some cases very scary information. I came away feeling way behind and recognizing some of our members may feel the same.

So how can we, Keystone ABC, help you stay abreast of these changes? Your input will help us help YOU move your company and employees forward. Are there things you need to know about software and their applications? Is it hardware that is needed?

Do you need specific education or training for your employees? As the Technology Committee heads into 2026, they want to understand your needs and provide solutions so that you, our members, can grow and help your employees grow.

We specifically need our contractor members to weigh in on technology. If you are a contractor, consider joining the Technology Committee. By embracing and utilizing changes in technology you will be more efficient, which in turn will make you more profitable. Let’s be more proactive and less reactive. Let’s embrace the future!

We’re here to help!

Let us know how the Technology Committee can support your company by filling out this quick questionnaire.

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Grow and Develop Your Workforce with ABC Keystone.

The construction industry is constantly evolving. To stay relevant, companies must continually grow their talent. ABC Keystone understands that making employee development a priority within a company culture ensures the team remains well-informed on industry trends, recent developments, and best practices.

• Create your own workforce through formalized training.

• Increase productivity, safety & profits.

• Expand your workers' knowledge base.

• Bid work more competitively.

Contact us today to learn more today.

ABCKEYSTONE.ORG

ADVOCACY UPDATE NO, VIRGINIA, THERE ISN’T A BUDGET. BY: JIM WILLSHIER, DIRECTOR OF GOVERNMENT AFFAIRS

As I write this in October, it’s a safe bet Pennsylvania still doesn’t have a state budget — and while federal budget battles and shutdowns are another story, the state’s ongoing impasse has its own causes. We’ve passed the June 30 deadline by months, as anticipated, and the reasons are both political and procedural. Let’s unpack what is happening as we head toward 2026 and what should be the start of a new appropriations negotiation.

Budget stalemates have become routine, reflected in the gridlock seen across other legislation. The House holds a narrow Democratic majority of one seat, while the Senate maintains a two-seat Republican majority.

Democrats flipped the House in 2022 and are still finding their footing in setting an agenda. Add to that an ambitious Gov. Josh Shapiro — who carefully calculates every move with an eye toward future elections — and the conditions for compromise are slim.

In today’s hyper partisan environment, collaboration is rare. The core dispute over the budget centers not on policy, but on numbers. Republicans want to hold the line at last year’s $47.6 billion, arguing the state shouldn’t spend more than it collects. Democrats and the governor are pushing for a plan exceeding $50 billion. The difference between those figures, and the lack of agreement on how to cover it, has left negotiations stalled.

As of this writing, there’s little indication of movement before December. The stalemate underscores the deep divisions in Harrisburg — and the relative calm of many lawmakers, who’ve only recently publicly begun addressing the delay amid renewed attention prompted by the federal budget standoff.

One thing is certain: 2026 is shaping up to be an even rockier year in the Capitol as lawmakers seek re-election.

In the meantime, stay engaged. Talk with your legislators about the ongoing impasse and what they plan to do to resolve it.

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Present by:

"This was an important event to me because it opened some windows for me."

"I would say that it's a very good opportunity to see more paths for the future."

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More than 250 middle school students explored the construction industry during ABC Keystone’s Construction Wars, held Oct. 14–16 at the Manheim training facility. The free, handson event introduced students to the skilled trades through activities like wiring circuits, building benches, laying brick, and exploring HVAC systems, guided by member company volunteers.

Thank you to our many sponsors, who made the event possible!

"I thought it was a good way to figure out what I wanna do."

THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS!

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FALL

NO-COST EVENT Bring a Colleague!

ABC Keystone Workforce Development – Growing Construction Careers and Connections Join us for an inside look at ABC’s comprehensive Workforce Development initiatives. Learn how we’re strengthening the talent pipeline—from early career awareness in middle schools and hands-on summer camps to high school programs and partnerships with career and technical centers (CTCs) and higher education institutions.

We’ll also highlight our three active college student chapters and the essential role our member volunteers play throughout the process.

Plus, don’t miss a demo of Keystone’s innovative new online Job Board!

7:30 am - 9:00 am

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NOV

Southwest Region Leonard S. Fiore, Inc. Altoona, PA Location Sponsor: Leonard S. Fiore, Inc.

7:30 am - 9:00 am

12

NOV

North Region (Howard) ABC Keystone Office Howard, PA Location Sponsor: Boyer & Ritter LLC

PRESENTERS Bruce Wiest

James Rosman

Director of Operations Pyramid Construction Services, LLC A Quandel Company Area Leader Assurance Media, LLC

David Schlosberg Principal

7:30 am - 9:00 am

20

NOV

Southeast Region ABC Keystone Office Manheim, PA Location Sponsor: RKL LLP

EPIC Insurance Brokers & Consultants

Brian Fisher

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Estimator & Project Manager Hursh Painting Co., Inc.

ABCKEYSTONE.ORG

Professional Perspectives

ASK AN ACCOUNTANT BY: LINDSEY HANEY, DIRECTOR, MCKONLY & ASBURY

Managing Sales Tax in the Construction Industry Sales tax compliance in the construction industry is surprisingly complex. Contractors must navigate the intersection of labor, materials, subcontracting, and varying state tax rules. Unlike retailers, who typically collect tax at the point of sale, contractors often absorb those sales tax costs themselves—especially on materials— depending on the type of job and jurisdiction. Understanding how sales tax applies can make a significant difference in job costing, pricing, and risk management.

In most states, contractors are treated as the final consumers of the materials they purchase. This means they usually pay sales tax on materials at the time of purchase and do not charge sales tax on the completed construction project. For example, when a contractor installs roofing, they pay tax on the shingles when they buy them, and then typically bill the customer without charging sales tax. However, this treatment can be dependent on several different factors and should not be applied across the board, as that can result in a tax bill for amounts that would have otherwise been paid by the customer.

State-Specific Rules In Pennsylvania, contractors generally must pay sales tax on materials purchased for capital improvement projects to real property (e.g., building an addition, installing HVAC). These projects are non-taxable to the customer, and the contractor eats the tax cost on materials. Work on tangible personal property (property that isn’t permanently affixed to a building) is taxable to the customer. In this case the contractor may use a resale certificate to purchase materials exempt from tax and then charge tax to the customer to remit to the state. Work on real property is also taxable to the customer if it is for maintenance or a minor repair that is not considered an improvement.

Other states handle sales tax in their own ways. For instance, in Texas, new construction labor is non-taxable, but remodeling can be taxable depending on whether the property is residential or nonresidential. California taxes certain fabrication labor, while New York exempts capital improvements but taxes repairs. New Jersey also exempts capital improvements but has very specific guidelines on what type of work qualifies. Contractors working across state lines must understand these differences or risk non-compliance.

Other Considerations Contract Type The way a construction project is contracted can play a key role in sales tax treatment. With a lump sum contract, the contractor is often treated as a consumer – responsible for paying sales tax on materials and does not charge the customer sales tax. In a time and materials contract, the contractor may be treated as a retailer and need to charge sales tax on the materials—and sometimes the labor—depending on the jurisdiction.

Subcontractors Subcontractors must also understand their tax obligations, which are often similar to the contractor but have nuances depending on the type of work and overall project.

Communication between general contractor and subcontractor can be crucial in ensuring proper tax compliance.

Tax-Exempt Customers When dealing with tax-exempt customers, such as schools, churches, or government agencies, states vary on whether that exemption extends to the contractor. In Pennsylvania, there is a Building Machinery and Equipment (BME) exemption for contracts with exempt entities that can apply if various requirements are met. The state provides a 54-page Taxability of Contractor’s Purchases for Exempt Entities List which details items eligible for this exemption. There are also exemptions for construction in specific industries, such as manufacturing, but proper paperwork must be maintained to ensure the exemption is honored by the state.

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APPRENTICESHIP UPDATE ABC Keystone Apprentices Head to National Stage in Craft Competition ABC Keystone apprentices demonstrated outstanding skill and dedication during the Keystone Chapter’s Local Craft Competition, held Friday, Oct. 3, at the chapter’s state-of-the-art training facility in Manheim.

Top-scoring apprentices earned an all-expenses-paid trip to the 2026 ABC National Craft Competition (NCC) in Salt Lake City, Utah, where they will compete against craftspeople from ABC’s 67 chapters nationwide. The local event was made possible through the support of ABC Keystone’s member companies.

Competitors showcased technical expertise and a strong commitment to safety while completing projects designed to test their hands-on abilities and problem-solving skills. The practical portion, judged by member industry professionals, accounted for 75 percent of each competitor’s total score. The remaining 25 percent of the score is based on a written exam measuring academic understanding and trade knowledge gained through ABC Keystone’s apprenticeship program.

Only apprentices ranking in the top five of their trade class qualified for the competition.

“The Keystone Chapter is proud of the accomplishments of all who competed,” said Cindy DeWire, ABC Keystone’s director of apprenticeship. “Their commitment to excellence as they represented their companies and the chapter was exemplary—a true testament to the focus on quality and safety shown by ABC members.”

Top Scorers Advancing to the 2026 National Craft Competition: Ivan Staudt – Carpentry, Pyramid Construction Services, LLC, A Quandel Company Ron Stuber – Electrical, CPEC, LLC Logan Spahr – HVAC, W.C. Eshenaur and Son, Inc. Chase Burkholder – Plumbing, CMC, Inc. Logan Lippert – Sheet Metal, James Craft & Son, Inc. ABC Keystone extends congratulations to all competitors for their hard work, professionalism, and continued commitment to advancing the skilled trades.

Ivan Staudt

Ron Stuber

Logan Spahr

Chase Burkholder

Logan Lippert 13

Verified STEP Participants As verified by ABC National as of October 2025

Allan Myers Allied Mechanical & Electrical Arthur Funk & Sons, Inc. Assurance Media, LLC B&B Integrations Beaver Concrete Construction Belfry Builders, LLC Benchmark Construction Co., Inc. Brechbill & Helman Constr. Co., Inc. Brubaker C Mechanical Services C.M. High, Inc. Capital Coating, Inc. CB Construction Services, Inc. CCS Building Group CH+N Site Construction, Inc. Clark Contractors, Inc. Clark Contractors, LLC CLARK, Inc. CMC, Inc. Commonwealth Fire Protection Co. Conewago Enterprises, Inc. Conewago Manufacturing, LLC D.E. Gemmill, Inc. DeRock Electric Company Dolan Construction, Inc. E.R. Stuebner, Inc.

EA Roofing Co. Easy Does It Drywall, Inc. EG Stoltzfus Construction, LLC Flow Mechanical, LLC Flyway Excavating, Inc. Garrety Glass, Inc. Glenn O. Hawbaker Inc. Gorski Engineering, Inc. High Construction Company Hursh Painting Co., Inc. James Craft & Son, Inc. John E. Fullerton, Inc. Johnston Construction Company Kessel Construction, Inc. Keystruct Construction, A Viocity Company Krislee Electric, LLC Lebanon Valley Electric, Inc. Leer Electric, Inc. Leo Kob Co., Inc. Leonard S. Fiore, Inc. LEW Site Construction, LLC MVE Group MYCO Mechanical, Inc. Paramount Contracting, Inc. Pincus Elevator Company, Inc. Poole Anderson Construction, LLC

Take the first STEP! Apply Today!

WWW.ABC.ORG/ABCSTEP

Quality Buildings, LLC Quandel Enterprises, LLC Quarry View Building Group RSR Electric, A Viocity Company S&S Structures, Inc. Scenic Ridge Company Schlouch Incorporated Smucker Company Speedwell Construction, Inc. Susquehanna Valley Construction Corp.

Tabora Painting, LLC The Tri-M Group, LLC The Tuckey Companies The Whiting-Turner Contracting Company The Witmer Group Town & Country Electrical, LLC Vision Mechanical, Inc. Wagman Construction, Inc. Warfel Construction Company Wenrich Painting, Inc. White Rose Interiors, LLC Wickersham Construction and Engineering, Inc. Wohlsen Construction Company Yoe Construction, Inc. Zartman Construction, Inc.

FREE MEMBER SEMINAR NOVEMBER 18, 2025 | 8:00 AM - 9:30 AM DECEMBER 16, 2025 | 8:00 AM - 9:30 AM JANUARY 22, 2026 | 8:00 AM - 9:30 AM FEBRUARY 19, 2026 | 8:00 AM - 9:30 AM

REGISTER TODAY!

ABC KEYSTONE MANHEIM OFFICE

ABCKEYSTONE.ORG

WELCOME NEW MEMBERS My Safety Lady, LLC Donna Yohe, Owner

US Solar Development, Inc. Dylan Kautz, President

815 West Moreland Road Willow Grove, PA 19090

2608 Columbia Avenue Lancaster, PA 17603

(610) 572-3806

(717) 681-6701

www.mysafetylady.com

www.ussolardevelopment.com

donna@mysafetylady.com

dylan@ussolardevelopment.com

Sponsored by: Michael Metz-Topodas

Saul Ewing LLP

Sponsored by: Dee Villamar

Kautz Construction Co.

Fish Mechanical, LLC Dennis W. Fisher, II, Owner

JPH Enterprises, LLC John P. Henry, IV, President

545 South 13th Street Columbia, PA 17512

84 Walker Township Park Lane Mifflintown, PA 17059

(717) 354-9240

www.jphent.com

www.fishmechanical.com

(717) 436-2247

fishmechanicalllc@gmail.com

john@jphent.com Sponsored by: Matt Daubert, JVI Group, Inc.

Delaware Valley Paving, Inc. Patti Sexton, Accounting Director

Palmatier Electric, LLC Joshua D. Palmatier, Owner

1010 Adams Avenue 160 Sawmill Road Norristown, PA 19403 New Providence, PA 17560 (610) 983-0567

(717) 572-0207

www.delawarevalleypaving.com

www.palmatierelectric.com

psexton@delawarevalleypaving.com

josh@palmatierelectric.com Sponsored by: Aimée Deraco, Brubaker

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NOVEMBER NOVEMBER SOUTHEAST REGION EVENTS

11/3

First Aid/CPR/AED with Emergency Care & Safety Institute Certification

11/4

Fall Southwest Regional Construction Wake-up Call Altoona, PA

11/12 & 11/13 Bluebeam® Reading Construction Documents 11/17

Bluebeam® Baseline Basics

11/18

Project Development & Environmental Decisions Part of the Construction 101 Series

VitalCog: Suicide Prevention in the Workplace

11/18

Microsoft® Excel®: Advanced Part of the Microsoft® Excel® Series

11/5

Microsoft® Excel®: Intermediate Part I Part of the Microsoft® Excel® Series

11/18

Rough-Terrain Forklift Training

11/6

ABC Keystone’s 36th Annual Excellence in Construction Awards Manheim, PA

11/19

Employee Relations and Engagement Part of the Human Resources Management Academy

11/6

VitalCog: Suicide Prevention in the Workplace

11/19

Bluebeam® Materials Takeoff & Estimates: Basics

11/5

Starts 11/7 Field Supervisor Safety Skills – Your Role in Driving This Bus

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SOUTHEAST REGION EVENTS

MEMBER SESSION

MEMBER SESSION

11/20 Fall Southeast Regional Construction Wake-up Call Manheim, PA

MEMBER SESSION

MEMBER SESSION

11/7

Mobile Elevating Work Platform (MEWP) Training

11/20 Bluebeam® Materials Takeoff & Estimates: Advanced

11/11

Leadership v. Management Part of the Leadership Development Series

11/24 First Aid/CPR/AED with Emergency Care & Safety Institute Certification

11/11

Microsoft® Excel®: Intermediate Part II Part of the Microsoft® Excel® Series

11/25 Bluebeam® for Administrative Professionals

11/11

Construction Estimating Principles & Application

11/12

Human Resources Contractor Peer Group

NORTH REGION EVENTS 11/6

VitalCog: Suicide Prevention in the Workplace

11/12

Fall North Regional Construction MEMBER Wake-up Call (Howard) SESSION ABC Keystone Office, Howard, PA

MEMBER SESSION

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

DECEMBER

SOUTHEAST REGION EVENTS

Starts 12/1 Dynamic Crew Leadership: Empowering Foreman, Superintendents and Project Managers 12/3

Culture/Language Barriers Part of the Building a Better Crew Series

12/3

Construction Design Documents & Technical Specifications Part of the Construction 101 Series

12/5

First Aid/CPR/AED with Emergency Care & Safety Institute Certification

12/9

Confident Communication: Mastering Presentations Part of the Leadership Development Series

12/11

Winter Wonderland Breakfast Mixer Manheim, PA

12/16 VitalCog: Suicide Prevention in the Workplace

BREAKFAST MIXER DECEMBER 11 | 7:00 AM - 9:00 AM Join ABC Keystone in celebrating the holiday season!

SPONSORSHIPS AVAILABLE!

MEMBER SESSION

12/16 Emotional Intelligence Part of the Leadership 2.0 Series 12/17 Essential Rigging & Crane Signaling Practices 12/17 Employee Orientation, Training, & Development Part of the Human Resources Management Academy 12/17 Bluebeam®: Free Launch Webinar

REGISTER TODAY!

ABCKEYSTONE.ORG 19

MERIT SHOP PROUD FLAGGER FORCE LAUNCHES “PEOPLE AREN’T CONES” CAMPAIGN TO HIGHLIGHT THE LIFE-SAVING ROLE HIGH-VISIBILITY YELLOW PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT (PPE) PLAYS IN WORK ZONES Industry-leading, Safety-Driven®, short-term traffic control company shares how the strategic color of gear can keep both roadway workers and drivers safe.

Flagger Force, an industry-leading, Safety-Driven®, short-term traffic control company with operations across the eastern third of the United States, announces the launch of its “People Aren’t Cones” campaign to raise awareness of the hazards employees face in establishing work zones and why their crews select high-visibility safety yellow personal protective equipment (PPE). Work zones are inherently dangerous environments, with setup and teardown posing the greatest risk to traffic control professionals. The strategic choice to wear high-visibility yellow gear helps to distinguish roadway workers from cones, barrels, signs, and other objects, ultimately enhancing safety for both crews and drivers.

“At Flagger Force, we know visibility saves lives. Too often, during lowvisibility conditions or because drivers are distracted, roadway workers dressed in orange PPE are mistaken for construction or traffic control devices, and that confusion can lead to deadly consequences,” said Mike Doner, President & CEO of Flagger Force. “We are committed to ensuring our employees are seen, recognized, and respected on the roadways, which is why we have made the deliberate choice to use full-body, reflective high-visibility yellow PPE. Yellow stands out in fast-moving environments where drivers make split-second decisions, and that visual distinction between a human and a piece of equipment can make all the difference between a life saved and a life lost.”

As one of the first businesses in the short-term traffic control industry to adopt high-visibility yellow gear, Flagger Force’s decision goes beyond regulatory compliance. It is strategic and backed by science. Research shows that bright yellow is highly visible to the human eye and naturally captures attention in both daylight and lowlight conditions. The color is often associated with alertness and caution, which is critical in high-risk work zones. By maintaining consistent visual cues in its work zones, Flagger Force helps reduce driver confusion and improve reaction time. When drivers recognize the company’s distinctive PPE, they are more likely to respond appropriately, keeping themselves and roadway workers out of harm’s way.

The “People Aren’t Cones” campaign will launch on Tuesday, October 7, 2025, across Flagger Force’s key service markets, including Louisville, Kentucky, Nashville, Tennessee, and other areas. The campaign will include a range of outreach efforts such as a dedicated landing page, blog series, social media advertisements, and more, aimed at reinforcing the importance of visibility in work zones, encouraging drivers to slow down when they see yellow, and introducing the people behind the brightly colored safety gear.

“We want every individual who works in and moves through our work zones to return home safely every single day. Every life matters, and that is why we are committed to investing in quality safety gear, raising critical awareness within the industry of the positive impacts of high-visibility yellow PPE, and educating community members of the vital role we all play in keeping our communities safe and moving,” said Mike Doner.

To learn more about the “People Aren’t Cones” campaign and explore work zone safety tips for drivers, visit https://flaggerforce.com/people-arent-cones/.

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WARFEL CONSTRUCTION PROMOTES DUSTYN RITCHEY TO DIRECTOR OF CONTINUOUS IMPROVEMENT Warfel Construction is proud to announce Dustyn Ritchey's promotion to Director of Continuous Improvement. In this role, Dustyn will continue leading the company’s Quality Team, advancing initiatives that strengthen project delivery and reinforce Warfel’s commitment to excellence.

Since joining Warfel in 2019 as a Project Manager, Dustyn has contributed to projects across every sector the company serves. In 2023, he helped shape the Continuous Improvement program, which has become a key driver of quality and risk management across the organization.

“Dustyn has consistently demonstrated what it means to be people-first,” said Conlan Swope, President of Warfel Construction. “He not only helps us build better projects but also strengthens the relationships and trust that are central to who we are as a company.”

His promotion reflects his leadership, vision, and dedication to advancing people, process, and performance throughout Warfel.

#ABCMeritShopProud

Dustyn Ritchey

For inclusion in future issues of the Merit Shop Spokesman, please send your press releases to: Rebecca Wolf | rebecca@abckeystone.org (717) 653-8106 21

MILESTONE ANNIVERSARIES Congratulations to these members celebrating milestone anniversaries in November 2025!

35 YEARS Smucker Company 30 YEARS B&P Neal Enterprises, Inc. 10 YEARS Bench Dogs

1 YEAR Durable Surfaces, LLC Redhammer LLC Alternative HR, LLC SALUS Safety Trade Scouts Peoples Security Bank & Trust Lancaster Gift Box Gilbert Architects Level Edge Construction Revizto

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It's time to

WWW.ABCKEYSTONE.ORG SAPPHIRE SPONSORS

PREMIER SPONSORS

PLATINUM SPONSORS

GOLD SPONSORS Acuity Advisors and CPAs, LLP Aerotek, Inc. Assurance Media Barley Snyder Brubaker

SILVER SPONSORS Associated Products Services, Inc. Bertz, Hess & Co. Brown Plus C Mechanical Services Fulton Bank D.E. Gemmill, Inc.

EHD Garrety Glass, Inc. Horst Construction Co. Hursh Painting Co., Inc Martins Flooring

MVE Group M. Potteiger, Inc. Providence Engineering RKL LLP S&T Bank

Saul Ewing LLP Smucker Company Trout CPA

Hess Auctioneers, LLC Leer Electric, Inc. Paramount Contracting, Inc. R.A. Walton & Company, Inc. The Witmer Group

BRONZE SPONSORS Commonwealth Fire Protection Co. David Miller/Associates, Inc. ECS Mid-Atlantic, LLC Remco, Inc.

Want to learn more about C.O.R.E? Visit ABCKEYSTONE.ORG or contact Laura Chanoski at laura@abckeystone.org.

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135 Shellyland Road Manheim, PA 17545

INAUGURAL GALA & ANNUAL MEETING JANUARY 9, 2026 Don’t miss this celebration of industry leadership and excellence!

• Kick off the evening with a networking mixer, followed by a four-course dinner with colleagues and industry peers.

• Take part in an engaging program featuring ABC Keystone’s Annual Meeting.

6:30 pm - 9:30 pm Yorktowne Hotel 48 E Market St. York, PA 17401

• Celebrate the 2026 Board of Directors.

• Honor Steven Kearns, James Craft & Son, Inc., as the 2026 ABC Keystone Chair of the Board.

SPONSORSHIPS AVAILABLE!