Summer 2019 Building Connections Magazine

T H E E - M AGAZ I N E O F T H E H B RA O F FA I R F I E L D CO U N TY - S U M M E R 2 0 1 9

UPCOMING

FEATURES

MEMBER BENEFITS

GMM at the Beach Fire Pit Party and Economic Update Award Nominations

HBRA Golf Outing Lifestyle Living Panel PWB Social

mynpp.com NAHB Benefits MunnCo

T H E E - M AG A Z I N E O F T H E H B R A O F FA I R F I E L D CO U N TY Building Connections is a monthly digital magazine produced and published by the Home Builders and Remodelers Association of Fairfield County. Inside you will find the latest association news, legislative updates, upcoming events, and featured articles about the industry.

Editorial Staff

Find Us On Social Media

Jackie Bertolone Executive Officer Sarah Iannarone Membership & Events Coordinator Clare Michalak Marketing & Graphics Coordinator

hbra@buildfairfieldcounty.com www.buildfairfieldcounty.com

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IN THIS ISSUE HBRA NEWS • Message from the Executive Officer • HBRA Award Nominations Due • GMM at the Beach • Upcoming Events • Golf Classic • New England Home Lifestyle Living Panel • BUILD-PAC • NAHB Conference • PWB Meeting • HBRA Partners with JM Wright, Receives Grant • Tile America and Soles4Souls • Save the Dates for Member Events • Leigh Overland Passive House Project • Fall GMM • HOBI Applications • Interstate Builds on Family Legacy • New Members • Job Bank • Advice Column • Member Benefits

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BUILDER NEWS • The Big Sales Lies

• TotalHousehold Pro Joins HBRA & NAHB • Women Break Into Trades

• New Construction In Connecticut

• Single Family Housing Still Recovering • Fairfield County Looks to Millennials

• HBA “Draft” Boosts Workforce

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Photography By: Sandro Photography https://www.sandrodecarvalho.com/

NAHB NEWS • Property Tax Bills Vary Up To $11K • NAHB Commends Workforce Development • 2020 IBS Registration Open • Builder Materials Pricing Increase in July • Refinancing Buoyed By Rate Cuts • Confidence Trending Higher as Interest Lowers • Contractors Suffering Under Trump’s New Tariffs

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MILLENNIAL INSIGHTS • 10 Features Millennials Want • What Millennials & Boomers Disagree on Most

p. 39 p. 39

• STATE NEWS • See How Your Legislator Voted • CT Still Lags In Personal Income Growth • Letter from the State CEO

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Advertisers: Pella Windows and Doors Ridgefield Supply Ed’s Garage Door County TV & Appliance DiMatteo Insurance Tooher Ferraris Interstate Lumber Fairfield County Bank Marlin Electric Huber Engineered Woods United Bank Acadia Insurance CTC&G New England Home Ring’s End

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2019 VIP PARTNERS HOME BUILDERS AND REMODELERS ASSOCIATION OF FAIRFIELD COUNTY

2018-19 OFFICERS

ELITE

President Anthony DeRosa DeRosa Builders

Sr. Vice-President Kim DiMatteo DiMatteo Insurance

Vice President John Hertz

Hertz Construction

Secretary Rob Michaud

DIAMOND

The Michaud Group

Immediate Past President Chris Steiner Steiner, Inc.

2018-19 DIRECTORS

TITANIUM

Propane Pete Battaglio Hocon Gas

Max Bender Bender Supply

Steve Berko

Four Square Build & Design

Michael Church

William Pitt Sotheby’s

PLATINUM

Ken DeLeo

Doherty & DeLeo

Brian Kurtz

Interstate Lumber

Steve LoParco

LoParco Associates, Inc.

Steven Roth

Elevator Service Company

Alex Shook

GOLD

Pella Commercial

Michael Wood Wood Builders

LIFE DIRECTORS Joanne Carroll JMC Resources

Michael Palumbo ERI Building & Design

Jerry Effren The Greyrock Companies

Peter Gaboriault Bear Paw Builders

Gary Fanali City Carting

Terrence Beaty William Pitt Sotheby’s International Realty

Peter Fusaro Preferred Builders

MEDIA

Thank you to the following VIP Associate Members for their support in 2019. Due to their generosity the Association greatly benefits - from developing new events and educational opportunities for the membership, to keeping our lights on!

MESSAGE FROM THE EXECUTIVE OFFICER

Dear Members, I hope you all are having a wonderful summer and are looking forward to our GMM at the Beach on September 4th. Chopped champion and Chef at Match is catering this year’s dinner and raw bar.

We have a lot of great events and seminars planned for the fall and we hope you will take advantage of all the opportunities your membership offers.

Our October 2nd GMM will feature a fire pit party on the patio of Shorehaven Golf Club followed by presentations from the National Association of Home Builders Chief Economist and Lobbyist. NAHB Chairman Greg Ugalde will also address the group and present two 50 year membership plaques. We are also offering a VIP reception for event sponsors and our VIP partners.

In September we will offer a seminar on changes employers should be aware of with regard to labor laws. Later in October we will host a Build Your Business with Instagram seminar, a night of axe throwing and a tour of the This Old House project with HBRA member Karp Associates. Mark your calendars!

As always, please don’t hesitate to contact me with any questions or suggestions. I look forward to seeing you all this fall.

All the best, Jackie L. Bertolone

SUMMER 2019 | HBRA of Fairfield County 5

6 HBRA of Fairfield County | SUMMER 2019

HBRA NEWS

AWARDS DEADLINE: AUGUST 28, 2019 The HBRA recognizes top members of the year at the Awards Dinner in December. Awards include builder of the year, member of the year, volunteer of the year, and many others.

Click below to fill out a nomination form. Any active HBRA member is eligible to win.

NOMINATION FORM

SUMMER 2019 | HBRA of Fairfield County 7

The HBRA of Fairfield County invites you for a fresh shucked raw bar, a brand new dinner menu from the Chef at Match, games on the sand and networking with building industry professionals.

The menu from Match includes: -Copp’s Island Raw Bar -Mini hot lobster rolls -Mini Match burgers, -Shrimp cocktail ceviche style -Bufala mozzarella & bacon bites -Pigs in a blanket -Grilled corn salsa & chips -Watermelon & warm chocolate chip cookies

PRESENTING SPONSOR

8 HBRA of Fairfield County | SUMMER 2019

REGISTER $60 PP HBRA MEMBERS $80 PP GENERAL ADMISSION RAFFLE: Guests are eligible to win a gift card to Match SoNo or Match Burger Lobster

DINNER SPONSOR

A/V SPONSOR

BEVERAGE SPONSOR

DESSERT SPONSOR

H B RA E V E N TS

MARK YOUR CALENDARS UPCOMING EVENTS

September GMM September 4, 2019 Penfield Pavilion at Fairfield Beach Click Here to Register

Fall GMM with NAHB

Fire Pit Party & Economic Update October 2, 2019 Shorehaven Golf Club Save the Date

OSHA10 October 10-11, 2019 Rings End Educational Facility Click Here To Register

HBRA Axe Throwing October 16, 2019 Bridgeport Blue Ox Ax Throwing Save the Date

Committee Meetings Program Committee September 10, 2019 Associates Council September 10, 2019 Membership Committee September 18, 2019 PWB September 19, 2019 SUMMER 2019 | HBRA of Fairfield County 9

HBRA NEWS

HBRA Annual Golf Outing The 2019 HBRA Golf Classic, presented by Ring’s End was a huge success for the association and thankfully this year the weather cooperated. We finished the 18 hole tournament just in time before the flash flooding and lighting began. The 18 hole tournament was sold out with a waiting list and we had a record number of players on our 9 hole this year!

Wright Technical High School with her colleagues.

Congratulations to the first place winners on the 18 hole: Read Smith, Jay Salley, Austin Smith, and Matt Sarosky and on the 9 hole tournament: Dr. Bartoli of JM

This event would not have been possible without the hard work of our golf committee and every single volunteer who helped out on the course to make it so

10 HBRA of Fairfield County | SUMMER 2019

Some of our raffle highlights included Jeff Bickel, the winner of our 50/50 raffle, walking home with over $800 dollars, DeRosa Builders who won the CTC&G Full Page Ad, Lee Pereira who won the 55’ LG Smart TV, and Brad Lupinacci who won the Beats Solo Wireless Headphones among many others.

enjoyable for everyone--from set up, to replenishing stations, to watching hole-in-ones, selling raffle tickets and everything in between.

All of our event sponsors provided so many great giveaways for the golfers, snacks, beverages and so much more. The HBRA would like to thank everyone who participated in the 2019 Golf Classic!

Click here to see photos from the day Photos by:

HBRA NEWS

SUMMER 2019 | HBRA of Fairfield County 11

HBRA NEWS

12 HBRA of Fairfield County | SUMMER 2019

HBRA NEWS

SUMMER 2019 | HBRA of Fairfield County 13

HBRA NEWS New England Home Lifestyle Living A panel discussion hosted by Connecticut Stone in partnership with New England Home, the HBRA of Fairfield County and AIA Connecticut featured a discussion on the new luxury lifestyle.

“Luxury home” used to mean a secluded estate with a sprawling lawn and tons of square footage. But for today’s high-income homebuyers, a desirable lifestyle increasingly means a hassle-free commute, easy access to activities, minimal maintenance, and innovative technologies designed to enhance a life on the go. Developers are responding to this demand with exclusive communities across the country. The panel discussion focused on whether or not Connecticut is ready to meet this demand and what steps can be taken.

HBRA Members Arnold Karp, Beth Krupa & Seth Greenwald sat on the panel alongside landscape architect Tara Vincenta and architect Rich Granoff.

The evening also featured Q&A from the audience and networking.

Thanks to all who participated for the collaboration and conversation.

14 HBRA of Fairfield County | SUMMER 2019

Jackie Bertolone, HBRA of Fairfield County; Roberta Mancuso, New England Home CT; Chris Barre, SmartHome & Theater Systems, Tyra Delacroce, CT Stone; Lisa O’Mara, SmartHome & Theater Systems

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203-438-2626 www.ridgefieldsupply.com

HBRA NEWS

BUILD-PAC The Fiano Family Golf Classic is hosted each year at TPC River Highlands to benefit BUILD-PAC, NAHB’s bipartisan political arm that helps elect pro-housing, probusiness candidates to federal office and is critical to NAHB’s success on Capitol Hill. This is one of the largest fundraisers for BUILD-PAC in the entire country.

Before the golf tournament, NAHB leadership meets with board members and the local executive officers to discuss issues affecting the industry.

A special thanks to the few members from HBRA of Fairfield County who made the drive to support this tournament.

16 HBRA of Fairfield County | SUMMER 2019

HBRA NEWS NAHB Association Management Conference NAHB organizes a conference each year for Executive Officers of local associations to further their education and network with others in the same position from across the country. Over 250 EOs and staff were in attendance in Baltimore for this 3 day event.

During the conference NAHB leadership hosted a town hall for EOs to ask questions about housing in the U.S. and policies NAHB is working on. Pictured right Joanne Hoerrner of the HBRA of CT, Sheila Leach of HBRA of Central CT, Greg Ugale NAHB Chairman, Eric Person of HBRA of Central CT and Jackie Bertolone of HBRA of Fairfield County.

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SUMMER 2019 | HBRA of Fairfield County 17

HBRA NEWS Professional Women in Building Council Summer Social On July 22, the Professional Women in Building Council held it’s first Summer Social, an informal gathering for PWB members and guests to celebrate summer and network. The event was hosted at Boca in Bridgeport which was designed floor to ceiling by architect and PWB Board Member, Emilia Ferri. The setting over looking the harbor was beautiful, the raw bar was delicious and the restaurant’s beautiful design was complimentary of its surroundings.

There are currently 60 Professional Women in Building Council members. If you are interested in attending a PWB meeting or joining, please contact the office. Visit our website for more information. www.buildfairfieldcounty.com/ pwb Woman of the Year Nominations: If you are a member of the PWB, please send in your nominations by clicking the form below.

NOMINATIONS Next Meeting: September 19, 2019 Everest Marble 2 Taft St, Norwalk, CT 9:30 - 11:00AM 18 HBRA of Fairfield County | SUMMER 2019

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From From Kitchen Kitchen Appliances Appliances to Home to Home Automation...

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WE WE HAVE HAVE IT ALL! IT ALL!

BESTBEST SERVICE SERVICE AT THE AT GUARANTEED THE GUARANTEED BESTBEST PRICE PRICE In-Store In-Store And Online And Online

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27702770 Summer Summer Street Street • Stamford, • Stamford, CT 06905 CT 06905 • 203-327-2630 • 203-327-2630 STORE HOURS: STORE HOURS: MON & THURS: MON & THURS: 9AM-9PM 9AM-9PM | TUES, WED, | TUES, FRI WED, & SAT: FRI9AM-6PM & SAT: 9AM-6PM | SUN: 11AM-5PM | SUN: 11AM-5PM

SUMMER 2019 | HBRA of Fairfield County 19

HBRA NEWS

HBRAFFC Partners With JM Wright Technical High School, Recieves Grant FAIRFIELD COUNTY HOME BUILDERS ASSOCIATION PARTNERS WITH JM WRIGHT TECHNICAL HIGH SCHOOL, RECIEVES GRANT Grant received from the National Housing Endowment will seek to help impact the local skilled labor shortage.

Fairfield, CT, July 29, 2019 – The Home Builders & Remodelers Association (HBRA) of Fairfield County received a $2,500 grant from the National Housing Endowment with the purpose to expand student knowledge of career paths in the skilled trades.

The association has teamed up with JM Wright Technical High School in Stamford, CT to provide opportunities to help match up employers with prospective employees.

Research conducted by the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) shows a scarcity of labor remains an important headwind for home builders and the entire construction industry. The median age of construction workers in Connecticut is 44, which is among the highest in the nation.

The grant will in part support 20 HBRA of Fairfield County | SUMMER 2019

an event planned for early February 6, 2020 to bring together members of the HBRA of Fairfield County and students to discuss opportunities in the different trades and what each career path holds. Scholarships will also be awarded to students who need tools or supplies for their new position or help with transportation costs to get to the job site. Scholarship funds can also be awarded for continuing education or certifications in the trades.

“The skilled labor shortage and aging workforce in the construction industry is challenging for our members but it is also affecting housing affordability nationwide. The partnership with JM Wright is critical to ensuring we are training the next generation of carpenters, plumbers & electricians. Hopefully this partnership will yield more of our members hiring students and showing the next generation there are great jobs available in our industry that don’t require 4 years of college” said Jackie Bertolone, Executive Officer of the HBRA of Fairfield County.

Principal of JM Wright Technical, Dr. Phyllis Bartoli released the

following statement: “JM Wright Technical High School holds our students to high standards so that they can achieve their personal best in both academics and the trades. The partnership that has developed between JM Wright Technical High School and the HBRA of Fairfield County recognizes the power of students with the necessary skills to become critical thinkers and productive citizens. This power is strengthened and advanced through the cooperative relationships with businesses and industry in the local community of Fairfield county. In addition to the development of interpersonal skills, the students are well-prepared for postsecondary education, including apprenticeships and immediate productive employment.”

For more information or to register, call the office at (203) 335-7008 or e-mail: hbra@ buildfairfieldcounty.com.

As seen in

HBRA NEWS Tile America Collects Over 1,000 GentlyWorn Shoes to Help Soles4Souls Fight Global Poverty in Q2 New Haven, CT – One person’s unwanted shoes can help provide meaningful opportunities that many in developing nations need. Tile America launched a shoe drive to collect 1,000 pairs of new or gentlyworn shoes for Soles4Souls, a non-profit social enterprise that creates sustainable jobs and provides relief through the distribution of shoes and clothing around the world.

The 1,007 pairs of donated shoes will be distributed to Soles4Souls’ micro-enterprise programs that create jobs in Haiti, Honduras and other developing nations. The micro-enterprise model provides individuals the ability to start small businesses by providing a steady supply of high-quality, low-cost product. They also give a second life to unwanted shoes, keeping them out of landfills and protecting the environment.

“We were overwhelmed with the response we received. Shoes started pouring in as employees cleaned out their closets and solicited donations from friends and family members. We were very excited to reach our goal of over 1000 pairs and are thrilled to support this wonderful charity.”– Brian Knies, Owner & President of Tile America Read More

Intl’ Builders Show Registration Opens August 1 Members Get August Only SAVINGS During the month of August, NAHB members can register for a free expo pass or get $100 off an IBS full registration.

NEW MEMBER DEAL: New NAHB members can register for a full registration for $150.

Offer valid August 1, 2019 January 23, 2020. Eligible NAHB members must be current on their dues and this must be the first time that they are registering for IBS as a member.

CLICK HERE for August Deals

SUMMER 2019 | HBRA of Fairfield County 21

HBRA NEWS

Save the Date October 24, 2019 5:30-8:00PM HBRA members Karp Associates and This Old House invite HBRA and AIA members to tour this classic meets contemporary home located in downtown New Canaan.

22 HBRA of Fairfield County | SUMMER 2019

HBRA NEWS Calling all vendors, contractors and subcontractors!

Leigh Overland, the principal architect of Leigh Overland Architect & Overland Design Group, is designing his own passive home. As you’ll see in the design drawings, the home will be a 38’x38’ square, an extremely efficient design shape.

He is using insulating concrete form (ICF) for the walls from the footing to the roof. The floors and roof will be constructed with Lite Deck insulated polystyrene forms, also filled with concrete.

Leigh is excited to turn this venture into an opportunity to showcase energy efficient, economical, and high quality materials. His hope is that this will become a leading standard of construction for his and the building industry’s clients.

Click here to see all renderings

HBRA AXE THROWING

save the date - OCTOBER 16, 2019 SUMMER 2019 | HBRA of Fairfield County 23

Because you need the solution before the problem.

Your business is one that deserves to be protected, and our job is to minimize risk.

TOOFER.COM

Tooher-Ferraris’ Home Builders Specialty Program has been supporting and protecting the reputations of builders and contractors for over 85 years.

From general contractor construction liability and workers compensation, to commercial automobile insurance, subcontractor risk transfer, and OSHA compliance assistance, our high-touch service is delivered with honesty, integrity, and dependability.

43 Danbury Road, Wilton, CT 06897

1.800.899.0093

The event will begin with a fire pit party on the patio overlooking the golf course with various food stations and then guests will go inside for a presentation on major issues facing our industry from the the leadership of the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB).

Join us to welcome national leadership to Fairfield County!

Speakers: Greg Ugalde, Chairman of NAHB Jim Tobin, Chief Lobbyist for NAHB with a legislative affairs update from Washington, DC Dr. Robert Dietz, National Economist and leading expert on housing in the U.S.

Event Details: 5:30 - 6:30 VIP Reception 6:00 - 7:30 Fire Pit Party 7:30 - 8:30 NAHB Presentation 8:30 - 9:00 Coffee & Cookies

We are seeking additional sponsors. Contact Jackie: 203.335.7008 BUILDER SPONSORS OF THE VIP RECEPTION THUS FAR

SUMMER 2019 | HBRA of Fairfield County 25

2019 Connecticut HOBI Awards Application The prestigious HOBIs or Home Building Industry Awards showcase the best products and services offered by all Connecticut HBRA members in many categories.

With over 800 attendees last year, the HOBI Awards night recognizes the best in building in Connecticut.

November 20, 2019

Aqua Turf Club 556 Mulberry Street, Plantsville, CT 06479 5:30 pm - 9:30pm

Eligibility In order to be eligible for state-wide recognition, you must be a current member of one of the local HBRA’s. Please make sure your membership is up to date and finalize any past due invoices. If you have any questions please contact Joanne Carroll at (203) 453-5420 or joanne@jmcresources.com

Click here for application

26 HBRA of Fairfield County | SUMMER 2019

HBRA NEWS New hardware and lumber store builds on family legacy Foundation is key in everything. From relationships to homes, a solid base is what’s needed to stand the test of time.

At Interstate + Lakeland Lumber, foundation is the business’ calling point. Established in 1922, the 97-year-old family business looks to open its fifth retail location after the Labor Day holiday on Post Road East in Westport. The move comes after the acquisition of Torno Lumber, which closed in April.

Sheldon Kahan, President and CEO of Interstate + Lakeland Lumber, said his grandfather Leon Kahan started the business with a woodworking shop in Greenwich.

Leon, an immigrant from Romania, would then expand his shop into a lumber company run by family.

“I started with the business in 1978, and I certainly had a good foundation to work with,” said Sheldon, a 64-year-old Stamford resident.

Old-school ethics, like treating others how you wish to be treated, were key business lessons in his upbringing.

“The acquisition in Westport is all about our future,” Sheldon said. “We have a great lumber yard and we take care of the public as well.”

Read More

SUMMER 2019 | HBRA of Fairfield County 27

HBRA NEW MEMBERS Edgewater Development, LLC Frank J. DeLuca

We have built a team of excellence inclusive of top rated designers, experienced project managers, flawless construction crew and complete dedicated support personnel. Our history of building fine custom homes together has allowed us to create a unique bond that makes the Edgewater Development team particularly effective... READ MORE

Elissa Grayer Interior Design Elissa Grayer

Elissa Grayer Interior Design is an award-winning, full service interior design firm creating classic luxury design solutions for modern living. Based in Rye, NY, we make your world more beautiful, functional, and most importantly, livable. Are you starting new home construction, renovation or just needing a new look for your existing space? ... READ MORE

HM Construction & Painting, LLC Helio Motar

HM Construction Managers provides top-quality home remodeling, home renovation and home addition services in Fairfield County, CT and the surrounding communities.

In business since 1990, we’ve spent decades dedicated to customer service. We’re committed to making sure you love your renovation, remodel or addition for years to come... READ MORE

SDR Plumbing and Heating Inc. Stephen Rozmus

S.D.R. Plumbing & Heating, Inc. is a full service plumbing and heating company.

The owner, Stephen D. Rozmus, has built an excellent reputation serving lower Fairfield county since 1998. Steve is known for his honesty, professionalism and quality work. He is a third generation plumber with over 30 years of experience... READ MORE

Superior Plus Propane Denis Habza

Whether it’s for work, play, or simply enjoying the comfort of home, our 12 suppliers and 20 fuel storage locations ensure we’re able to meet your needs. Having multiple suppliers and origin points means we can offer an uninterrupted supply at a fair price. ...READ MORE

D.A.S. Custom Builders, LLC Doug Slater

With offices in Greenwich, Connecticut and Bedford, New York, the foundation for D.A.S. was laid in Pound Ridge, New York in 1991. Our management team brings more than 65 years of combined experience in home building and construction. Having grown up locally, Westchester and Fairfield Counties have always been part of our lives... READ MORE 28 HBRA of Fairfield County | SUMMER 2019

HBRA NEW MEMBERS Fairfield Glass Service Inc.

Kia Hardy

Fairfield Glass is a local, family owned and operated business serving Fairfield County since 1974. Specializing in a variety of skills and projects, including but not limited to; bath enclosures, glass railings and flooring, glass wall partitions, architectural glass features, all structural and architectural glazing applications... READ MORE

Acadia Design Build LLC Brian Burdo

Three concepts - Vision, Communication, and Trust – serve as the cornerstones of Acadia’s business.At Acadia we understand that building or renovating a home can be one of the most significant investments a client can take on. We strive to make the design and building experience as pleasant and rewarding as possible. ... READ MORE

Boshka Interiors

Kerie Boshka

Your trusted source for interior designers, contractors & architects.

Proudly serving the New York metropolitan area, including Connecticut and New Jersey... READ MORE

O. and Co. Media Olivier Kpognon

Olivier J-P Kpognon is an international lifestyle “documenteur” and founder of O & Co. Media Group, a full-service photography, film and design studio launched in 2003.

He has a formidable reputation among both his peers and clients for his exceptional creativity, talent and professionalism... READ MORE

Property Protection Consulting, LLC

Nick Santarsiero

At Property Protection we believe “SECURITY IS PERSONAL” and is best served by a local company who understands and is for all your needs. Since 2002 we have been Connecticut’s FULL SERVICE one stop shop for all your security systems protective services. Which include installation, service, MONITORING, inspections and mobile apps. ... READ MORE

Polito Builders, LLC Joseph Polito

At Polito Builders, LLC is a family run residential construction company serving Fairfield County since 1980. We are committed to providing our clients with exceptional architectural design, craftsmanship and the highest quality of materials and detail. We take pride in creating the highest level of customer satisfaction with each project... READ MORE

Welcome New Affiliates Sunshine Floors Robert Rackear

Bender

Alex Barta, Amy Nunez, Jason Sellman, Krystal Stone, Payton Barta SUMMER 2019 | HBRA of Fairfield County 29

HBRA JOB BANK

NOW HIRING Glegate is hiring for the following positions: Landscape Designer Landscape Project Manager Property Care Account Manager Property Care Production Manager

C L I C K HERE FO R D ETA ILS

Financing some of the top builders in Fairfield County.

People you trust, service you expect, and products to fit your financial needs.

• Construction Financing • Commercial Mortgages • Term Loans • Revolving Lines of Credit

877.431.7431 • www.fairfieldcountybank.com 30 HBRA of Fairfield County | SUMMER 2019

NMLS ID #516624

EQUAL HOUSING

LENDER

MEMBER F D IC

HBRA JOB BANK

NOW HIRING DJA Imports is hiring for the following positions: Full Time/Part Time/Flex Customer Care Representative – Order Management Social Media/Brand Associate Office Assistant

C L I C K HERE FO R D ETA ILS

SUMMER 2019 | HBRA of Fairfield County 31

BUILDER NEWS The Big Sales Lies: 30 second Commercials and TotalHousehold Pro Joins Building Cold Calls Associations HBRA I have to say, I cringe when I see articles, courses, and consultants pushing sales people and business owners to hone the skill of the and NAHB 30-second commercial – the old school sales technique where you have to tell someone exactly who you are and what you do in 30 seconds.

According to the ‘believers’ that 30 second rant should help you connect quickly and memorably with people that matter.

My take? It’s annoying. I often feel like I’m living in a bad version of “Glen Gary, Glen Ross” when I’m approached by someone at an event and they immediately toss a business card in my hand, smile, and for 30 seconds (give or take) I’m being told who they are, what they do, and why I should buy from them.

In the digital world, this has transcended to LinkedIn. I connect with someone and immediately I get an InMail with their 30 second commercial. Unlink. Delete.

I don’t know them, now I don’t like them, and I surely don’t have enough information to trust them. The deal is dead before it started.

The sad truth is – these people might actually be good at what they do, their product or service may be valuable.

Read More

TotalHousehold Pro is proud to announce its recent membership in the Home Builders & Remodelers Association of Fairfield County (HBRA) and the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB).

The association is the premier organization in the region that promotes, protects and improves the building industry to ensure viable economic growth now and in the future.

“We are excited to join the HBRA of Fairfield County and the National Association of Home Builders Read More

IT’S NOT A TREND. IT’S A REVOLUTION. Visit ZIPRevolution.com to learn how easy it is to make the switch.

© 2017-2019 Huber Engineered Woods LLC. ZIP System, the accompanying ZIP System logo and design are trademarks of Huber Engineered Woods LLC. Huber Engineered Woods’ ZIP System® products are covered by various patents. Please see ZIPSystem.com/patents for details. HUB 81860 REV 1/19

32 HBRA of Fairfield County | SUMMER 2019

BUILDER NEWS Building Space: Women Break Into The Skilled Trades Anne Lassere is the very model of a young woman whose career is about to take off. Competent, confident, poised and well-educated, the daughter of a doctor and a lawyer, she’s studied sculpture and anthropology and has lived in France, where she worked as a translator.

She’s recently left her job to launch her own firm, at age 32.

The business? Construction.

Lassere is a skilled carpenter with a brand-new contractor’s license, and on the first project for her new company—renovating a house near downtown Charlottesville—she’s handling everything from replacing the flooring to moving the staircase to updating the bathrooms, with a little help from her friends: plumber Kristi Williams and electrician Chelsea Short. An all-female construction crew is pretty unusual— women still represent only 3.4 percent of the construction trades workforce, says the Institute for Women’s Policy Research. Yet the skilled construction trades offer covetable jobs: wages are from 3 percent to 22 percent higher than the median in Virginia, according to the Associated General Contractors of America, and most don’t require a college degree.

Read More

New Construction Rises In Connecticut In 2018, But What’s Holding Back More Impressive Gains?

Connecticut’s homebuilding industry has been slogging through a recovery for so many years now than even a slight increase can spark a bit of optimism, but the construction business also is one of facing reality.

“When we see an increase, we are cautiously optimistic that people are gaining confidence in the state’s ability to fight its way back,” Greg Ugalde, president of T&M Building Co. in Torrington and chairman of the National Association of Home Builders, said.

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SUMMER 2019 | HBRA of Fairfield County 33

BUILDER NEWS Fairfield County’s Single-Family Housing Still Recovering From Recession

HBA “Draft” Boosts Local Workforce

When Peter Zeitsch wants to take his 5-year-old and 18-month-old sons to the beach, he walks them down the street. When he wants to catch a train to Manhattan, he drives a few minutes to the downtown MetroNorth Railroad station. And when he faces his first Connecticut winter in a few months, he will strike up the living-room fireplace.

What would happen if the home building industry recruited talent like the National Football League draft? This idea led to Idaho State University, Home Depot in Pocatello, Idaho and South Eastern Idaho BA to develop the first annual Construction Combine.

These are a few of the gains the recent hire for the Norwalk-based financial-technology firm FactSet has reaped from his new “hedge”: moving to Stamford in June after he and his wife, Flora, bought a $1 million home in the city’s Shippan section.

The two-day training and recruiting event allows participants (ages 16 and up) to learn and then demonstrate various construction skills. Day one of the event featured training The arrival of the likes of the Zeitsches shows that the state, and Fairfield stations for the participants County, can still attract buyers who want well-located homes, scenic to learn skills such as framing, neighborhoods and access to quality public services. concrete, electrical and finishing.

Read More On the second day, the participants built sheds to show what they learned. Then, select Fairfield County Looks To Millennials For participants were “drafted” for a job by the contractors who were Housing Revival invited to interact and observe Thousands of apartments built in the past decade have reshaped rental them. markets in southwestern Connecticut’s cities. They could transform the “We put in a lot of work…it was area’s single-family housing sector, too. really fun, and I learned a lot of While the state’s single-family market still has not fully recovered from new things. The people were the Great Recession that ended 10 years ago this summer, its struggles super nice to work with. We had a are not necessarily terminal. really great time,” said participant Madison Campbell.

The proliferation of apartments has fueled population growth in cities such as Stamford, helping them to avoid the state’s overall population The event is an example of stagnation. Many real estate agents are hoping that the millennial industry sponsors (Home Depot), renters of today will, in time, help to revive house sales by moving local employers (builders and from apartments to their own homes. It is a pathway that a growing contractors) and educational number of young people are taking — but it is a trend whose potential institutions working together to will not be realized without significant economic growth and improved address the workforce challenge infrastructure. in Idaho.

“When the opportunity to join FactSet came up, they said, ‘Do you want to move to Connecticut or Manhattan?’ For me, that was a no-brainer,” said Zeitsch, 47, a Sydney, Australia native who previously worked in San Francisco. “It’s the same job, it pays actually the same money, but my lifestyle in Connecticut will be much better.

“Once millennials are here, they’re going to realize you don’t have to be downtown and two minutes away from everything,” said Sabine Schoenberg, Greenwich-based founder and president of real estate agency Prime Sites and co-president of Think Greenwich, a Town Hallbacked group that promotes the town.

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B U I L DConnecticut E R N E W S Home Builders & Remodelers Program

AN INSURANCE PROGRAM CUSTOM DESIGNED FOR YOUR BUSINESS Acadia Insurance is proud to be the endorsed property and casualty insurance carrier for the Home Builders and Remodelers Association of Connecticut. As a leading provider of insurance for contractors throughout New England, Acadia Insurance understands the insurance and service needs of contractors from small to large.

With a local office in Rocky Hill, Acadia Insurance has professionals that handle underwriting, claim, loss control and premium audit for its Connecticut customers. Acadia is working with a select number of its Independent Agents in offering this program to Connecticut’s Home Builders and Remodelers.

The Right Policy for Your Business Acadia Insurance offers qualifying contractors a full array of necessary coverages including property, general liability, workers’ compensation, business automobile and umbrella. In addition, we can provide builders’ risk coverage, installation floater and equipment coverage.

✓ We have designed special coverage options just for home builders: Liability Coverage Enhancements:

Property Coverage Enhancements:

• Waiver of subrogation clause

• Coverage for newly acquired property

• Limited pollution coverage

• Coverage for property while in-transit

• Extended property damage coverage

• Debris removal coverage

✓ Acadia Insurance can craft the coverage you need to operate your business.

For a full listing of coverages and how they apply to an individual home builder, please see an Acadia Insurance agent who is equipped to analyze your current insurance program and provide you with recommendations.

SUMMER 2019 | HBRA of Fairfield County 35

NAHB NEWS Property Tax Bills by Congressional Districts Vary Up to $11K A new study released by NAHB based on the latest data available (2017) reveals a nearly $11,000 difference in average property tax bills among the most and least expensive congressional districts.

The highest average property tax bill was $11,389 in 2017, paid by home owners residing in New York’s 17th congressional district (Rockland County and portions of Westchester County). By contrast, the lowest average annual real estate tax bill was $425, paid by home owners in Alabama’s 4th district, which comprises Franklin, Colbert, Marion, Lamar, Fayette, Walker, Winston, Cullman, Lawrence, Marshall, Etowah and DeKalb counties.

The congressional districts in which home owners pay the 20 largest and 20 smallest annual average property tax bills are shown in the tables below.

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NAHB Commends White House Commitment to Workforce Development Greg Ugalde, chairman of the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) and a home builder and developer from Torrington, Conn., issued the following statement marking the one-year anniversary of the White House executive order on workforce development: “NAHB applauds President Trump for his tireless commitment to expand job-training and apprenticeship opportunities for students and mid-career workers alike so that they will develop the skills and tools needed to secure well-paying jobs and succeed in the American workforce.

“As a representative of an industry that is vital to the U.S. economy, it is my honor to attend this White House event marking the first anniversary of the president’s executive order that established the National Council for the American Worker.

“With the housing sector grappling with severe labor shortages, NAHB is pleased to do its part to help in this vital initiative by pledging to train 50,000 new workers over a five-year period for a career in the residential construction trades.

Our commitment to workforce training starts with the Home Builders Institute, a member of the NAHB federation, and a national leader in workforce training for the construction industry.

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NAHB NEWS 2020 International Builders’ Show Registration Prices Paid for Now Open Building Materials The National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) officially opened Increase in July online registration today for the 2020 NAHB International Builders’ Show® (IBS), the largest annual light construction trade show in the world.

IBS will return to the Las Vegas Convention Center, Jan. 21 – 23, where it will again co-locate with the National Kitchen & Bath Association’s (NKBA) Kitchen & Bath Industry Show® (KBIS) for the 7th annual Design & Construction Week® (DCW). The two shows are expected to host more than 2,000 exhibiting brands spanning over a million net square feet of exhibit space, for the largest annual gathering of the residential design and construction industry.

Prices paid for goods used in residential construction increased by 0.7% in July (not seasonally adjusted) according to the latest Producer Price Index (PPI) released by the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Building materials prices have declined an average of 0.1% per month over the last 12 months, “It’s our goal for the NAHB International Builders’ Show to be the event compared to an average monthly of the year for our members and industry professionals,” said NAHB increase of 0.8% during the Chairman Greg Ugalde, a home builder and developer from Torrington, same period 2017-2018. The Conn. “Nowhere else will you find top-level education sessions, a variety price of goods used in residential of networking opportunities, special events and an exhibit hall full of construction has risen 2.8% in innovative products all in one place. This is truly an event you can’t miss.” 2019, roughly half the pace of 2018 increases, year-to-date.

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NAHB NEWS General contractors are suffering under Trump’s new tariffs on Chinese goods Anthony Rinaldi has learned first-hand what President Donald Trump’s trade war with China can mean for business. One of his eponymous firm’s current projects, backed by a Chinesegovernment-owned company, has recently stalled. He’s unsure when, or if, it will get back off the ground.

Refinancing Activity Buoyed by Federal Reserve Rate Cuts The latest data from the Mortgage Bankers Association’s Weekly Application Survey show a strong reaction to the market among prospective homebuyers and those wishing to refinance their existing home loans. There are two main factors: The Federal Reserve’s cutting of interest rates and the ongoing trade war with China.

The 30-year fixed-rate mortgage dropped by 15 basis points from the previous week, which was the largest decrease in over three months.

In the latest weekly application survey, the share of refinancing activity rose by 3% to 53% of all mortgage activity. Interestingly, refinancing activity of government mortgage loans responded more strongly to the decline in rates than did conventional mortgage loans, increasing to levels not seen since November 2016.

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Builder Confidence Trending Higher as Interest Rates Move Lower Builder confidence in the market for newly-built single-family homes rose one point to 66 in August, according to the latest National Association of Home Builders/Wells Fargo Housing Market Index (HMI) released today. Sentiment levels have held at a solid 64-to-66 level for the past four months.

Even as builders report a firm demand for single-family homes, they continue to struggle with rising construction costs stemming from excessive regulations, a chronic shortage of workers and a lack of buildable lots.

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Delays are one among many headaches general contractors are grappling with as the trade war escalates, pushing up the cost of materials and casting uncertainty over planned and existing contracts.

“A number of projects that we have in our pipeline involve Asian developers, banks and investors,” Rinaldi said. “I’m not seeing that it’s going to get better. It’s going to get worse.”

In May, Trump ordered an increase in tariffs from 10 percent to 25 percent on $200 billion in Chinese imports — triggering China to retaliate by increasing tariffs on $60 billion in U.S. goods.

A study from the National Association of Home Builders said the affected goods included more than 400 items commonly used in the construction industry, including steel, bricks and aluminum.

“We’ve been seeing an increase of about 5 percent on the overall gross value of their numbers. That we’ve been seeing climbing over the last nine-to-12 months.”

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38 HBRA of Fairfield County | SUMMER 2019

M I L L E N N I A L I N S I G H TS What Millennial and Baby Boomer Homebuyers Disagree on Most generational battle is raging at the heart of America’s real estate market.

As retirement-ready baby boomers look for new digs, hotshot young millennials are entering the market.

In the next 10 years, 44.9 million millennials will turn 34, the median age for first-time homebuyers, Zillow says. That’s 7.4% more potential first-timers than during the last decade.

Top 10 Features Millennials Want — and Don’t Want At least four out of five millennial buyers prefer laundry rooms, hardwood front exteriors, patios and garage storage. Conversely, they give a thumbs down to elevators, wine cellars and laminate countertops.

These were among the findings from a new study by the NAHB Economics team that focused on millennial home buying preferences.

The 2018 survey asked recent and prospective buyers to rate 175 different features on the following four-tier scale: Essential: Unlikely to buy a home without feature Desirable: Seriously influenced to buy home if included Indifferent: Would not influence purchase decision Do Not Want: Not likely to buy a home with feature No. 1 is a laundry room, which 86% of millennials want. Other features on the top 10 list include a walk-in pantry, exterior lighting, a front porch and table space for eating.

Millennial preferences differed somewhat from baby boomers and seniors. Unlike millennials, boomers did not include a walk-in pantry, front porch, table space for eating and double sink in their list of top 10 amenities. Likewise, seniors omitted a hardwood front exterior, walk-in pantry, front porch and table space for eating from their 10 most wanted features.

But at the moment, there are nearly twice as many baby boomer homeowners as millennial homeowners, Zillow found, by examining census data.

So what are these vastly different generations looking for when they buy homes? See how they disagree on 10 popular housing features 1. Kitchens In the kitchen, baby boomers want sprawling luxury, while screenqueen millennials crave tech connectivity.

Boomers love high-end finishes, oodles of storage for kitchen gadgets, and touch-activated fixtures that take on importance with aging, says decorating website Houzz.

Meanwhile, a 2015 Think with Google study found that 59% of millennials cook with their smartphones.

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ADVICE COLUMNS

H B RA E V E N TS

The Time Thieves By: Dr. Donald E. Wetmore

You have 24 hours in every day, seven days a week for a total of 168 hours to accomplish what needs to be done in your life. And every day, eleven time thieves gang up on you and work to take some of that precious time away from productive use. Let me introduce you to this inconsiderate troupe.

1. Poor planning. People don’t plan to fail but a lot of people fail to plan. Without a plan of action set up before your day begins you are likely to get caught up in “stuff”, responding the loudest voice that gets your time and attention. Will you have been productive for the day?

Sure, but not as productive as you might have been.

2. Crisis management. When a deadline sneaks up on you it robs you of all choice and you are controlled by the clock. Crisis management, for the most part, is poor time management because you’re rushed and stressed, letting things slip through the cracks and often having to go back and redo what was not done well in the first place.

Most of what puts you into crisis management is within your control, you probably could have seen it coming.

3. Procrastination. All the planning in the world does not substitute for the doing. Many find that they just can’t get going on the things that will make a big difference in their success. They have “permanent potential”. First thing in your day, get going on the most difficult tasks and get them out of the way.

4. Interruptions. Unanticipated events coming your way, in person or electronically, can steal your time away.

Many interruptions are necessary and part of what you get paid for. However, many are unnecessary thieves of your time. Be less willing to automatically give away your time just because they demand it. Rather, determine whether or not they deserve it in the context of what you need to accomplish.

5. Not delegating. “If you want a job done well you better do it yourself.” What a thief! Look at everything you have to do and ask, “Is this the best use of my time?” If it is, do it. If not, delegate it. There’s a world of difference between “I do it” and “It gets done.” Leverage your time through others and don’t allow the things that can be delegated to steal your time.

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DEAR SALES COACH Dear Sales Coach,

Hiring top talent is one of our top priorities.

How can we attract (or retain) the best employees even when we can’t pay top dollar?

-Bruce M. Dear Bruce,

Not all employees are motivated by money and most of the time when an employee leaves it is not because of money.

Creating a positive culture will improve employee retention, better teamwork, customer satisfaction, and of course attract and retain top talent. All of these will ensure more profitable and predictable revenue.

Here are 4 tips you can implement in order to have a good company culture.

1. Employees will feel respected and appreciated.

2. Have clear processes for employees to follow in all aspects of your business.

3. Tie employee goals to corporate goals.

4. Identify benchmarks for employees to know how to be successful in their role.

-Ed Ed Schultek

Ed began Sandler/PEAK with focus on medium and small size firms to Corporate organizations who must lift their Management and Sales competency to Win, improve their ability to lead others to change their future, and position themselves as the Trusted Advisor to their Clients above all others.

Have a sales question? Email Ed at ed.schultek@sandler.com.

40 HBRA of Fairfield County | SUMMER 2019

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STATE LEGISLATIVE NEWS CBIA Compiled A List Of Most Important Bills To The Business Community. See How Your Legislator Voted The following table illustrates how members of the Connecticut state House voted in 2019 on a series of key bills (see below), either in committee or on the House floor.

If a lawmaker sponsored a bill and did not have an opportunity to vote on it, or abstained from a vote or was absent, that is also reflected in these records. Bill sponsorship is weighed the same as a vote in calculating overall percentage grades.

While these bills reflect just a fraction of all legislation addressed during the session, they were chosen as the framework for CBIA’s 2019 legislative voting records because of their potential impact— positive or negative—on Connecticut’s economic competitiveness and business climate.

2019 Key Bills Paid FMLA Mandate (SB 1 and HB 5003): Costly and unsustainable new mandate on private sector businesses with one or more employees that disproportionately targets small businesses. SB 1 passed Senate 21-15; House 79-69; signed by governor. CBIA Position: Opposed.

Minimum Wage Hike (SB 2 and HB 5004): Raises the hourly minimum wage by almost 50% over four years—followed by automatic annual hikes—further increasing Connecticut’s high cost of doing business. HB 5004 passed House 85-59; Senate 21-14; signed by governor. CBIA Position: Opposed.

Proprietary Information Transfer (SB 48): Requires prescription drug manufacturers to share product samples with generic drug manufacturers. Passed General Law Committee 11-5; Judiciary Committee 22-16; Appropriations Committee 27-16; no action taken by Senate. CBIA Position: Opposed.

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New Report Shows CT Still Lags The Nation In Personal Income Growth Personal income surged nationally this year in a way not seen since 2011 — but growth in Connecticut still lagged most of the nation, according to a new analysis from Pew Charitable Trusts.

Personal income in the U.S. rose by 2 percent in the first quarter of 2019 compared with the same three-month period in 2018. Connecticut’s growth was only about one fourth of that.

More importantly it marked the second consecutive quarter that personal income grew in all 50 states — a benchmark not reached in eight years, according to Pew analysts.

Personal income includes wages and interest earnings, income from rent and public assistance programs — but not capital gains — This is an important distinction, especially in Connecticut and other northeastern states with economies heavily reliant on investments and financial services.

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Click here to find your legislator 42 HBRA of Fairfield County | SUMMER 2019

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LETTER FROM THE STATE CEO Hello HBRAFF Members, I hope this letter finds you enjoying the last days of summer. Under the leadership of our Chairman, Chris Nelson, our state association has been busy throughout the summer laying the groundwork for this year’s HOBIs, in hopes that it will be the best one yet. This year, we are doing things a little different. We have assembled a working group with broad representation (including Fairfield E.O. Jackie Bertolone) to provide guidance as to how we can continue to improve upon the success of past events in order to offer guests, award winners and sponsors the best experience possible. If you have any ideas on how to improve this signature event, please reach out to Jackie or me directly. No idea is too big or small.

As we begin to meet with the Governor’s administration and legislative leaders in the coming weeks and months, we will simultaneously begin the process of formulating our agenda for the 2020 legislative session that begins in February. As your advocate, our goal is to encourage state government to foster an environment in Connecticut that reverses the trend of outward migration and makes our state an inviting place for the next generation of homeowners to live and raise their families. The HBRACT will work with government officials and policy makers to promote an economy that gets Connecticut residents back to work and our industry building homes at a healthy and sustainable rate. To that end, I encourage all our members to share your ideas about what state government can do better. If you have specific examples of an existing law or state regulation that has proved to be overly burdensome to your business, has not achieved its intended purpose or has had a disproportionately negative impact, we would like to hear from you.

I hope to see you all at the HBRAFF General Membership Meeting at the Beach on September 4th. If we have not met yet, please introduce yourself. I look forward to meeting you, learning about your business and the specific issues impacting builders and associates in Fairfield County. As always, if you’re interested in getting more active at the state level or want to get more involved in the legislative process please consider joining our Government Affairs Committee. Alternatively, for those who are unaware, we have a very active Developers Forum that meets monthly for dinner from September through June to discuss market trends and listen to guest speakers discuss topics of interest to our community. At our first forum of the year, we’ll be hosting Ryan Drajewicz, Chief of Staff to Governor Lamont who will tell us about the Governor’s plans to stimulate economic growth in Connecticut. It will be a great opportunity for our members to hear directly from the Administration and to provide input as the Administration formulates its policies for the next legislative session. Please contact the HBRACT at admin@hbact.org for additional information.

Sincerely, Jim Perras

SUMMER 2019 | HBRA of Fairfield County 43

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