GCA Construction News Bulletin September 2021

VOL. 62 ISSUE9 SEPTEMBER2021 • GUAM CONTRACTORSʼ ASSOCIATION

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

12

16

CONSTRUCTION NEWS BULLETIN

SEPTEMBER

2021 8

S.A.M.E. UPDATE

10

SMALL BUSINESS NOTES

12

FEATURE STORY

16

PHOTO HIGHLIGHTS

18

NAWIC NEWS

20

MEMBER BENEFITS

22

NEWSLINE

24

REPORTS/ INFORMATION

NOW ACCEPTING ONLINE PAYMENTS VIA PAYPAL

VISIT OUR WEBSITE FOR MORE INFO 2 | SEPTEMBER2021

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EDITORIALS

CONSTRUCTION NEWS BULLETIN

THEDIRECTORS

THEEDITORIALS

THETEAM

PRESIDENT James Martinez Guam Contractors’ Association

Guam Contractor’s Association (GCA) in conjunction with Adztech and Public Relations, Inc. publishes the Construction News Bulletin (CNB) monthly.

Reproduction of materials appearing in this publication is strictly forbidden without written permission by GCA.

PUBLISHER: James Martinez

CHAIRMAN Bill Beery Tutujan Hill Group VICE CHAIRMAN Grace Jacot SET Pacific

While we always strive for accuracy, we will from time to time overlook mistakes. In order to help us improve the quality and accuracy of this publication, we ask that you take the time to look at the information provided and notify GCA or Adztech of any corrections as needed. Opinions and editorial content of this publication may not necessarily be those of the publisher, production team, staff, GCA members, GCA Board of Directors and advertisers.

SECRETARY/TREASURER John Sage Pacific Rim Constructors Inc. PAST CHAIRMAN Peter Errett Hawaiian Rock Products CONTRACTOR DIRECTORS: Don McCann Black Construction Corporation

For more information about advertising in the GCA Construction News Bulletin contact the advertising department at (671) 477-1239/2239 or email at adztech@teleguam.net.

Lucia Wood APTIM Joe Roberto East Island Tinting

Distributed to GCA members or can be obtained by stopping by the Guam Contractors’ Association office located at 506 Mariner Ave., Barrigada, Guam 96913

Hunter Groom Hensel Phelps Albert Smith SmithBridge Guam ASSOCIATE DIRECTORS: Jose Garcia First Hawaiian Bank

To find out more about how you can become a GCA member contact Guam Contractors’ Association at Tel: (671) 647-4840/41 Fax: (671) 647-4866 or Email: gca@teleguam.net. www.guamcontractors.org

Mark Cruz MidPac Far East Bill Bernardo Conwood

AD SALES: Jaceth Duenas PRODUCTION: Jason Davis Geri Leon Guerrero Christopher “Taco” Rowland PHOTOGRAPHY: Jaceth Duenas GCA Robert Tenorio EDITOR: Adztech CONTRIBUTING WRITERS: Pete Diaz R.D. Gibson Rodney “RJ” Ricarte Rebecca Gale GCA STAFF: Desiree Lizama Elaine Gogue Francine Taitague Trevor Cruz COVER: Celebrating James’s 20th Anniversary and 20 more!

Postmaster. Send address changes to Guam Contractors’ Association, located at 506 Mariner Ave., Barrigada, Guam 96913

Camilo Lorenzo Matson Navigation

GCA

PRODUCTION TEAM LEAD: Geri Leon Guerrero

TRADES ACADEMY B u i l d i n g

S k i l l s

F o r

A

L i f e t i m e

Guam Contractors Association

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PRESIDENT’S LETTER

CONSTRUCTION NEWS BULLETIN

PRESIDENT’S LETTER Hafa Adai! GCA Members: Here we go again! Another Executive Order with more restrictions attached. Just as we were seeing our COVID-19 positive cases going down, before we know it, numbers start creeping up again. As of publication time, Guam was experiencing between 275 to 325 positive cases per day. New mandates for social gatherings are limited to 10 people (vaccinated) for indoor gathering nad 25 (vaccinated) for outdoors. There is an exemption for the business sector who have meetings and training within their confines.

However, snacks and even bottled water is not allowed to be distributed at these meetings or training sessions. So, this month, GCA is going back to holding virtual membership meetings to comply with the new E.O. While business meetings and training are exempt, it’s pointless to hold a membership “luncheon” meeting with no lunch. We hope things improve and these restrictions are lifted soon. Just like other businesses, GCA’s revenue stream has been adversely affected because of these restrictions and not being able to hold events that have generally provided some revenue to the association.

Our virtual membership meeting later this month will include a guest speaker from the insurance and bonding industry to talk about a hot topic as of late, especially with our general contractors and their subcontractors working on federal projects. Mike Cassidy of Cassidy’s Insurance and will be our guest speaker this month talking about the Defense Base Act or DBA. Federal law requires all U.S. government contractors and subcontractors to secure workers' compensation insurance for their employees working overseas. The related statutes include the Defense Base Act, 42 U.S.C. §§ 1651-54 and the Longshore and Harbor Workers' Compensation Act, 33 U.S.C. §§ 901-50. Implementing regulations can be found at 20 C.F.R. Parts 701, 702, 703 and 704. The Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) also sets out the workers' compensation insurance requirements for all overseas contracts at 48 C.F.R. § 28.305 and at § 52-228-3 and § 52-228-4.

The U.S. Department of Labor, Office of Workers' Compensation Programs (OWCP), Division of Longshore and Harbor Workers' Compensation, administers the Defense Base Act, ensuring that workers' compensation benefits are provided for covered employees promptly and correctly.

Since the inception of the DBA in 1942, Guam had always been waived from this requirement. However, for whatever reason, whether of some administrative error or something else, Guam no longer has this waiver after May 6, 2020, until May 5, 2025.

We hope Mr. Cassidy will shed some light on DBA, being a relatively new requirement to the contracting community here. How does this affect our small businesses and what negative impacts do we foresee in our labor market? As I see it, DBA could very well be a disincentive for contractors to hire U.S. citizens because insurance rates will be a lot higher. This may also prove to be a disadvantage, in the bidding process, for our contractors who hire mostly U.S. citizens versus companies who hire more or all foreign skilled workers (H2B) for their federal contracts. Labor costs will be substantially lower for the foreign worker, not because wages are lower, but because the cost of insurance to meet the DBA requirement is high for U.S. citizen workers hired locally or from the mainland U.S. This should be an interesting presentation and I’m sure that there will a lot of questions asked. A notice of the meeting will be sent out later in September of this impending GCA virtual meeting so stay tuned and stay safe!

Dångkulu na si Yu’us ma’åse’ James A. Martinez President Guam Contractors Association

Guam Contractors Association

6 | SEPTEMBER2021

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S.A.M.E. UPDATE

CONSTRUCTION NEWS BULLETIN

Society of

NEWSLETTER SEPTEMBER 2021

American Military Engineers

ANNOUNCMENTS Join our Board and Committees!

Reach out to Scott Thompson (scott.thompson@coffman.com) or Noel Enriquez (nenriquez@macdonaldbedford.com) SAME Century Book Is now available. It’s the exclusive, official publication marking the first 100 years of the Society of American Military Engineers. To order visit: www.same.org/centurybook

SAVE THE DATE 29 SEP 2021 (ChST) Indo-Pacific Industry Forum Hosted by the SAME Honolulu Post 29 SEP– 01 OCT 2021 2021 Western Pacific Water and Wastewater Conference Hosted by the AWWA-HIWPS For more info and to register, visit: www.awwahiwps.org 11-13 NOV 2021 Charlie Corn Scholarship Golf Tournament Venue: STARTS Guam Golf Resort For more info or to register, visit: www.same.org/Guam/Golf For details or questions, contact John Paul Dierking, (johnpauld@khlgassociates.com)

In recognition of SAME’s Centennial in 2020, an anniversary book was published that both chronicles its first 100 years and outlines where the Society is headed to begin its second century of service to the nation, and the profession. The book’s theme is “SAME: The Second Century Begins – Preparing for the Future by Building on the Past”. It is filled with a combination of unique archival material from the past century of engineering history and an unprecedented look at tomorrow, this book is a never-beforeattempted survey of SAME’s past, present, and future.

The century book covers SAME’s rich past, perspectives from past and current members, milestones of note, a timeline of engineering history over the last century, distinguished leaders, insights on the Society’s role in leading collaboration throughout our first 100 years, and examples of the engineering profession working together to solve national security infrastructure-related challenges.

A major goal for the century book was to not just articulate our past but to also define our future – how our members, partners, and stakeholders are embracing SAME’s unique role in enhancing industry-government collaboration, strengthening resilience throughout our communities, producing STEM professionals for the nation, developing leaders for the profession, and preparing veterans for the A/E/C industry.

To get your copy of the SAME Century Book, visit: www.same.org/centurybook.

Here are a few excerpts from the Century Book showcasing the SAME Guam Post!

Upcoming September Meeting

MAIN PRESENTATION

Guam Solid Waste Authority Presented by: Larry Gast, General Manager 16 SEP 2021

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Website: www.same.org/Guam facebook.com/GuamContractors

Two-person Team, select ball (scramble), modified Peoria Handicap*

STARTS GOLF RESORT DEDEDO, GUAM TEAMS CAN CHOOSE ONE ORE MORE PLAY DATES

First prize = 2 x $350 Second prize = 2 x $300 Third prize = 2 x $250 Best gross score = 2 x $200

 Thur, Nov 11 /  Fri, Nov 12 /  Sat, Nov 13

Opportunity to win great prizes on select par 3 as “hole-in-one” prizes

$125 per person/$250 per team (2) or $75 per person/$150 per Team (2) (Active Duty and Fed Gov Employees Only)

Each entrant receives a Ditty Bag, Boxed lunch, and on-course refreshments *Note: Peoria Handicapping systems “level the playing field” – favor the poorer player and disfavor the better player

(Each day is limited to the first 60 players to sign up)

Show time: 11:30 am

General Registration

Corporate Sponsorship Sponsorship Levels: Platinum: $2,000 Gold: $1,000 Silver: $500 Bronze: $300

For more Info or to Register Visit: www.same.org/Guam/Golf

42nd Annual 2021 CHARLIE CORN ALL GOLF COVID-19 RULES APPLY For more details, you may contact: JOHN PAUL ‘JP’ DIERKING johnpauld@khlgassociates.com Mobile: +1 671-482-5108

SCHOLARSHIP GOLF TOURNAMENT

SMALL BUSINESS NOTES

CONSTRUCTION NEWS BULLETIN

join our SB Community!

• The GCA Small Business Committee supports small business members of the association to ensure their voices are heard and needs are met within GCA capabilities.

• Do you have an issue or concern that we might be able to assist with?

• Do you have an idea or suggestion that may benefit our small business community?

L-R: James Martinez, Joe Roberto, Adam Baron, Bill Bernardo, Elaine Gogue, Theresa Crisostomo, Tom Roberto, Jaylene Kent, Gerardine Mendiola, Jane Ray, Philip Leddy, Ken Lujan.

HELP US HELP YOU BY JOINING US AT OUR MONTHLY MEETINGS OR CONTACT: Lucia Wood (Chair) Theresa Crisostomo (Vice-Chair)

(671) 777-8425 lucia.wood@aptim.com (671) 588-5972 theresac@jwsguam.com

GUAM PTAC FREE Live Webinars Procurement Integrated Enterprise Environment (PIEE)

09/17 2021

09/23 2021

09/30 2021

10 | SEPTEMBER2021

Department of Defense (DOD) vendors use the Wide-Area Workflow (WAWF) module in the Procurement Integrated Enterprise Environment (PIEE) system to create, submit, and track their invoices. We will show you how to setup an account and submit an invoice so you get paid on time.

FAR Clauses Explained Confused by all the FAR clauses referenced in government solicitations? The Guam PTAC will demystify these Federal Acquisition Regulations. Join us as we explain many of the common FAR clauses found in Federal solicitations.

Government of Guam Procurement The Guam PTAC will explain Government of Guam Procurement, where to find opportunities, and how to submit bids.

www.guamcontractors.org

The Guam Procurement Technical Assistance Center (PTAC) is offering FREE webinars to the public for September 2021.

Webinars run from 10am-11:30am and will be conducted via Zoom. Links to the live webinar and the webinar evaluation will be emailed to all registered attendees 15 minutes before the start of the webinar.

Register at: guamptac.ecenterdirect.com For more information, contact the Guam PTAC at (671) 735-2552 or visit www.guamptac.com

FREE Live Webinars Every Thursday!

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& S TI LL BU I LD I NG By: R.D. Gibson

CONSTRUCTION NEWS BULLETIN

The world was a different place in 2001. Overcoming the Y2K anxieties and overwhelming apprehensions of what the new millennium had in store. George W. Bush was the President. The tragedy and aftermath of the 9/11 attacks led to extensive airport security, none like we had ever experienced before. Apple was taking the world by storm with their new technology, iTunes and the iPod were launched. It was the last year we were certain Britney Spears and Justin Timberlake would be together forever.

For Guam, in October 2001, a magnitude 7 earthquake woke island residents out of their sleep, which left residents without power and water. In the Congressional Record, then-Congressman Robert A. Underwood detailed preliminary information regarding structural damage throughout the island, including public schools (some of them brand new), bridges, and water lines. He also detailed the toll 9/11 took on the economy, as well as the Asian economic crisis. Further, he praised the strict building codes, which saved lives, as our island learned from the reported 8.0 earthquake in 1993.

Several years later in the early 2000s, the general public would hear about the major movement of Marines to our island. In August 2007, in an oversight field hearing held before the Subcommittee on Insular Affairs of the Committee on Natural Resources, there was a statement made on behalf of the Guam Contractor Association detailing the contracting community’s capabilities and willingness.

This included labor and equipment, among other things.

Additionally, there were two areas of concern on behalf of the organization: materials procurement and logistics, and workforce availability.

A year later, another testimony was provided; again reiterating the need for an adequate workforce within and for the community, calling on intensified training for the local workforce and pushing for training from the island’s educational institutions to promote trades education.

This in turn brought up the need for funding in workforce development to promote knowledge about the trades and education.

Additionally, the group testified toward looking at skilled and unskilled laborers from the neighboring Pacific islands in Micronesia, throughout Asia, and the continental United States. The conversation continues to this day about the development of laborers in Guam and expanding the workforce to assist in building and strengthening our island and the people who call her ‘home.’

According to an article from the Marianas Business Journal in 2008, it detailed the growth in Guam Contractors Association membership from 197 members in 2003 to 331. Now in 2021, there are nearly 500 registered members; a

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FEATURE STORY

continuously growing network. This network also continuously wins noteworthy national awards that do more than exemplify the spirit and ingenuity of the companies, but demonstrate the hard work, determination, and tenacity of the people who literally build, design, and provide power to the island - among many other things.

Fast forward to 2021, and we have a completely different set of wins and problems. Currently, the biggest one is you guessed it - the COVID-19 pandemic. Sometimes it seems like this pandemic will never end. It has completely shaken up the way the island conducts business in various industries, almost like those earthquakes in 1993 or 2001.

So, why the abridged history lesson? Sure there were several items that were not included, and possibly just needed more time to be researched. However, these few historical items are part of a timeline that is as intricate, yet just as strong as a woven pandanus. These items are part of the resilience and grit of the island; guided, nurtured, and led by those whose vision is shared, supported, and strengthened.

At the center of this weaving is an advocate for the industry, its workforce, and the people of Guam; one of the biggest proponents for progress in our community a catalyst, if you will. At the very forefront of this conversation is GCA President James Martinez, who has been at the helm of the Guam Contractors Association for two decades.

For the last 20 years, it goes without saying that he and the organization have experienced all kinds of hurdles and obstacles - natural and man-made, yet have managed to persevere. A conversation was guided by a handful of those who have worked with Martinez closely over the years.

From the group, Martinez was described overwhelmingly as hardworking, dedicated, and steadfast to his mission and objectives. Jessica Barrett, President of Barrett Plumbing, stated, “[Martinez] doesn’t shy away from getting his hands dirty and stepping right into the thick of things, even when times are challenging.” Bill Beery, Chairman of the Board of Directors for the GCA, stated simply that he is “steady and dependable.” Mark Cruz from MidPac Far East added, “He always has those wheels upstairs turning.”

Frank Florig, CEO of Special Olympics Guam, added, “When he's determined to get or make something happen, he will!” Florig joked how James must have been “schooled by the Sisters of Mercy and a band of Capuchin Priests” because of his impeccable work ethic.

“James breathes and sleeps work!”

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FEATURE STORY

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This chorus of praise comes from a choir (metaphorically speaking) who have seen firsthand the tenacity and determination of Martinez. It is only added with his humility that shows Martinez’s heart and passion he puts into and behind his organization - pushing it along, even when the odds are stacked against it. Barrett stated, “He has been leading GCA and is [a] key representative for [the] Guam Contractors Association members...but...does not seek glory or the limelight.”

It might seem overwhelming to read all of this coming from different voices, but they all sing one true harmony, the organization and the industry it represents are better because of Martinez and his gentle, yet sturdy leadership.

Beery stated, “I’m the guy that participated in hiring him…, and have watched him develop into the leader we see today.” As a member of the Board for that span of time until now, he continued, “as anyone could imagine, every year there have been challenges for our industry, and James has always been up front, and did very well at presenting our positions.”

Barrett added some of the challenges included the H2-B visa issues and currently the COVID-19 global pandemic “both of which have never been an issue for our island, but James and GCA and the companies that stepped up to support the cause have championed the cause head on for the greater good of Guam’s construction both inside and outside the fence.”

For Bob Salas of LMS, it’s Martinez’s ‘can-do’ attitude, professionalism, dedication, cooperation, and productivity, which all make Martinez invaluable to the GCA and have contributed to its success. Salas looks back to 2001 when he interviewed Martinez for the President position with GCA, and a week later hired him. Salas talked about how Martinez’s positive and flexible leadership led to a lot of changes within the membership, which would ultimately increase over time.

Looking back, Salas continued, “I fought to hire James.”

He added, “In the last 20 years, James has proven himself and GCA is fortunate to have James at the helm of GCA.” Amidst the challenges that the island and the organization have faced, there are also the community projects that make anything fulfilling; community projects Martinez pushes.

For Florig, Martinez makes it a point to give back to the community through GCA and its members, and has given a strong, advocating voice for the GCA in policy and elsewhere.

14 | SEPTEMBER2021

For Cruz, it’s the Construction and Truck Rodes, Construction Warriors, the Excellence in Construction and Contractor of the Year events, as well as, “thinking of new ways to build up our membership levels” and other pressing issues.

For Barrett, it’s the training and seminar opportunities to sharpen the skill set of those on the island.

For Salas, it’s the scholarships for students who want to work in the trades. It’s spending the weekends at Pizza, Pop, and Power Tools events to inspire young women to get interested in the construction industry. It’s the continued push and advocacy for the industry and contractors whether it be through prevailing wages and pushing for H2-B issues for workforce issues.

For Bert Johnston, Education Director of the GCA Trades Academy, it is just that - the GCA Trades Academy. It is so much more than a community project though.

But, since its inception in 2006, it’s only grown under the leadership of Johnston and the collaboration with Martinez. According to Johnston, the Guam Contractors Association was the incubator for the Trades Academy, and it bestowed upon the institution its name (GCA), guided it to the NCCER Curriculum, and Johnston’s position as Education Director. Simply put, Johnston stated, “We couldn’t have done it without him.”

Johnston added Martinez is a good partner, very supportive, as they bounce ideas off each other continuously to get things done. “There’s a lot that has been accomplished [with Martinez as President],” said Johnston. “We probably wouldn’t be seeing what we’re seeing now.”

James continues to fortify a network of professionals to make the best for Guam. And this network spans beyond the construction and contracting industry, but to a larger pool of professionals on island and potentially throughout. But, maybe that’s what has made the timeline above so historic - the people he’s brought together for all the right reasons. Sometimes things happen for a reason, right?

It is hard to imagine what work was like 20 years ago.

Now in 2021, it’s Whatsapp notifications, Zoom calls, sometimes-WFH (Work from Home), and frequent, thorough sanitizing. However, for James Martinez, twenty years at the helm of the GCA ship has sailed fairly smoothly, through some treacherous waters and notwithstanding a few dodged typhoons here and there - literally and figuratively. But, it’s with the support of a dedicated (and expanding) group of professionals and a vision that he’s brought the Guam Contractors Association through 20 years of some choppy waters and

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sunny, smooth sailing. Though we do not know what the future holds, we do know this: given the years of service, can-do attitude, humility, and passion, the GCA is in the best hands possible.

As our ancestors used the stars as guides to the islands, so has your leadership guided the growth and development of our island. With your creativity and ingenuity, we look forward to the next twenty years and beyond

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FEATURE STORY

with your innovation, fervor, and can-do attitude that has spread throughout the industry and the island.

Happy Twentieth Anniversary, James! Congratulations, and thank you for your dedication, commitment, and passion for the industry, its workers, and its future workers.

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PHOTO HIGHLIGHTS

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GCA Membership Luncheon August 18, 2021 Westin Resort Guam

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NAWIC NEWS

CONSTRUCTION NEWS BULLETIN

JOIN US

To Be Part Of The Leading Collective Voice For Women In The Construction Industry

NAWIC Guam, chartered in 2012 aims to support women in construction by providing a resources to advance their careers, to celebrate and platform their accomplishments, to make a lasting positive impact on the construction industry, and to inspire the next generation of women into construction related roles.

NAWIC membership affords many professional, educational and business-related opportunities. The benefits listed below are just a few of the reasons NAWIC membership can add value to your construction-related career.

MEMBERSHIP BENEFITS PROFESSIONAL BENEFITS

LOCAL

• Networking opportunities with local

businesses, other organizations, and community leaders.

• Involvement with partnering organization’s events and resources, including the Guam Contractors Association and Trades Academy • Career and educational programs, including numerous opportunities to obtain continuing education credits, free of charge.

• Presentations relating to local projects, providing members behind-the-scenes access to some of the biggest and most relevant construction projects in the area.

• Support, encouragement, and resources from other members who are involved in similar fields of work.

• Outreach to students and local community through construction Career Days, and scholarship and educational programs.

NATIONAL

• Employee recruitment.

• Marketing/advertisement opportunities for your company.

• Access to a national and local resource network.

• Discounts on travel, construction-related

publications, office supplies/business needs, and shipping.

• Career/Job Leads • Networking opportunities • Leadership skills development • Industry Speakers • Access to a national and local resource network • Legislative/Legal Updates • Community Outreach Projects • Connection to women in the industry

EDUCATIONAL BENEFITS

• Speakers discuss topics which are

construction-related or business issues

• NEF (NAWIC Education Foundation) seeks to educate

the construction industry and nurture tomorrow’s workforce. It provides many educational opportunities including certification programs, such as • Construction Bookkeeping Technician (CBT), • Construction Document Specialist (CDS), • Construction Industry Specialist (CIS), • Construction Industry Technician (CIT), and • Estimating and Scheduling Practitioner (ESP).

• Community service projects, such as Guam Chapter’s Hard Hats with Huge Hearts (4H) Program and Block Kids, free building block competition that encourages early interest in school age children in STEM and the construction industry • Regional conferences deliver educational seminars, workshops and networking.

• Chapters present pertinent topics on the construction industry at monthly meetings, seminars, and leadership conference • NAWIC’s national website provides web-based programs and Internet courses.

If you would like to meet us and see what we are all about, you are more than welcome to join us at any of our monthly meetings. Not quite a Woman in Construction, but would like to investigate further, we encourage you to reach out to us!

All women working in construction are eligible for membership, including women builders in the trades, project management, marketing, administration, and executive leadership. Women in related industries who work on construction related business, such as finance, legal, insurance and other complementary industries, are welcome as well!

JOIN NAWIC GUAM CHAPTER 381 TODAY! Want to know more about NAWIC Guam or join our organization?

Contact us at nawicguam@gmail.com or DM us on Facebook (Nawic Guam) or Instagram (@nawicguam). www.nawic.org 18 | SEPTEMBER2021

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MEMBER BENEFITS

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Keeping GCA Employees Healthy

By Rodney “RJ” Ricarte With the TakeCare GCA Employee Health Benefit, member employees can live healthier lives around the key elements of TakeCare’s balanced lifestyle philosophy: 1.) Being Active; 2.) Eating Right; 3.) Relaxing & Unwinding; and 4.)

Staying Socially Connected. GCA employers can encourage employees to live a balanced lifestyle by supporting enrollment in wellness and fitness programs and incentives, eating healthier, staying current on vaccinations and using technology tools to monitor and improve healthy habits.

Support Wellness Programs

TakeCare employee members can access no-cost health education classes to learn about better nutrition, prevent heart disease, quit smoking, and control diabetes. TakeCare’s diabetes prevention program is the only program fully recognized in the region by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). TakeCare members can improve health through health education classes, cancer prevention campaigns, and fitness programs.

Support Fitness & Wellness Incentives

TakeCare offers a list of wellness, disease management, and fitness incentives up to $600 per eligible individual or $1,200 per eligible family per benefit period provided they meet the program’s incentive qualifying criteria. Cash incentives can be earned by completing annual physical, vision, or dental exams, various health screenings, TakeCare’s online health check, meeting selected health measurement goals, or achieving healthy outcomes.

TakeCare members have a choice of accessing 19 fitness partners on Guam. Members can also earn TakeCare’s fitness incentive by self-reporting at least 30 minutes of an approved activity such as walking, jogging, running; rowing; swimming; and or biking.

Track the activity using one of the approved fitness apps and upload information about the activity to earn the incentive.

Encourage Eating Healthier

The new TakeCare Wellness Center, scheduled to open October 2021, will include a full kitchen, and consultation and education rooms. Members can register and schedule one-on-one and group classes, workshops and consultations online. Jonei Delgado, TakeCare and FHP Health Center’s registered dietician nutritionist, will be teaching cooking workshops focusing on ways to incorporate nutrient dense foods and ingredients into easy and exciting meals that maximize health.

Encourage Vaccines

Flu shots, COVID and other regular vaccinations are as important to employees’ overall health as diet and exercise.

Like eating healthy foods, exercising, and getting regular check-ups, vaccines play a vital role in keeping employees healthy.

Encourage Using Technology

Using TakeCare’s mobile app, MyTakeCare member portal, Elixir Pharmacy mobile app, TeleHealth for nurse consultations, Telemedicine for online office visits with a provider, health check by Virgin Pulse, and the TIVA Virtual Assistant, members can manage their accounts when, where, and how they want. TakeCare is committed to developing and delivering secure online tools that enhance member capabilities while driving empowerment, safety, and convenience.

Rodney “RJ” Ricarte is the TakeCare account executive for GCA. He can be contacted at (671) 487-7121 or rodney.ricarte@takecareasia.com.

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NEWSLINE

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NEWSLINE Judge Overturns ABC-Supported Trump-Era WOTUS Rule On Aug. 30, a U.S. District Court for the District of Arizona judge struck down the Trump administration’s final rule revising the definition of “waters of the United States” that are federally regulated under the Clean Water Act. As a member of the Waters Advocacy Coalition, ABC applauded the 2020 rule, known as the Navigable Waters Protection Rule, which provided four clear categories of waters under the CWA that businesses and landowners could easily understand.

As a result, the areas affected by the decision must comply with the definition of WOTUS established in the 1980s, which is broader in scope and affects more categories of waters than the Trump rule. However, as of this writing, the Biden administration has not resolved whether the 1980s definition will be applied nationally or on a narrower scale—such as on land controlled by the six plaintiff tribes or the states in which those tribal lands are located—which will cause uncertainty for businesses in complying with federal regulations.

Additional clarity will be needed from the administration on how this new ruling will be put in place. ABC is

22 | SEPTEMBER2021

currently reviewing the decision and will provide further guidance on how the decision impacts the construction industry at a later date.

In her decision, the judge wrote that although the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers have stated their intent to replace the definition of WOTUS under the NWPR, allowing the Trump-era regulation to stay in place while the administration works on a new definition of WOTUS could lead to serious environmental harm.

ing written comments on their intent to revise the definition of WOTUS. ABC plans to submit comments as a member of WAC before the Sept. 4 deadline.

ABC will continue to monitor and provide updates on this decision in Newsline. More information on WOTUS can be found on the EPA website.

Sen. Shelley Moore Capito, R-W.Va., ranking member on the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee, released a statement following the decision to strike down the rule, stating in part that “while the ruling cites ‘the possibility of serious environmental harm if NWPR remains in place,’ there hasn’t been any evidence from either agency to support the claim.”

EPA and the Corps have held a series of public meetings to hear from interested stakeholders on their perspectives on defining WOTUS and how to implement that definition as the agencies pursue this process.

Additionally, the agencies are accept-

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EEOC Announces New Filing Deadline for EEO-1 Component 1 Data Collection for 2019 and 2020 Due to the continuing impact of COVID-19 on business operations, the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission announced on Aug. 18 that the 2019 and 2020 EEO-1 Component 1 data collection filing deadline has been extended to Monday, Oct. 25, 2021. The deadline was previously extended from July 19 to Aug. 23. The EEOC indicated that the new deadline of Oct. 25 is final and all eligible filers must submit data by this date. The EEOC encourages eligible employers to file the required EEO-1 Component 1 report(s) as soon as possible.

According to the EEO-1 Component 1 website, the EEO-1 Component 1 report is a mandatory annual data collection that requires all private sector employers with 100 or more employees, and federal contractors with 50 or more employees meeting certain criteria, to submit demographic workforce data, including data by race/ethnicity, sex and job categories.

Resources to assist filers with their submissions are available on a dedicated website for the EEOC’s data collections.

Filers should visit the EEO-1 Component 1 website for the latest filing updates and additional information.

They can also visit the Filer Support Center to request assistance and find helpful resources on how to file the 2019/2020 EEO-1 Component 1 Reports.

More information on EEO-1 Component 1 data and other EEO data collections can be found on the EEOC website.

This article is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice or opinion.

24 | SEPTEMBER2021 A/C & Refrigeration Mechanic HVAC & Refrigeration Technician Field Supervisor

31

3

Crane Operator

1

Field Service Technician

Total Non-Construction H-2B Workers

5 2

Pipefitter

5

Elevator Installer Technician

www.guamcontractors.org TOTAL Construction H-2B Workers

Total OTHER Construction

7t

HVAC & Refrigeration Mechanic

2

Heavy Equipment Mechanic

1646

80

11

18

30

Heavy Equipment Mechanic

18

Camp Cook

4

Construction Equipment Mechanic

5

Other Construction Occupations

Employers Workplace Monthly Report Statistics

Automotive Mechanic

Other Non-Construction Occupations

GUAM DEPARTMENT OF LABOR Alien Labor Processing Certification Division

2 27

Welder Total Common Const.

1677

2

1674 1

4694 1688

1677

Total H-2B Employers U.S. Const. Workers Total U.S. Workers Grand Total H-2B Workers

0

1000

2000

3000

4000

5000

Total U.S. Workers

Total U.S. Workers Grand Total Hin H2 companies 2B Workers

US Workers vs. H-2B

7 26

Non-Construction

6000

19

Construction

Employers By Industry

Total by Nationality

Philippines Australia

Workers by Nationality

1566

101

112

Heavy Equip. Operator Camp Cook

22

Electrician

75

Sheetmetal Worker

27

Structural Steelworker Plumber

165

672

363

Reinforcing Metalworker

Carpenter

Cement Mason

Common Construction Occupations

MONTH ENDING: July 2021

Mexico Thailand 0.00% 0.00%

1.72%

4.79%

1.40%

7.15%

10.54%

6.45%

0.13%

Other 0.00%

Peru 0.00%

Prepared By: Jessie Cruz Contact information: Greg Massey, ALPCD Administrator P.O. Box 9970 Tamuning, Guam 96931 (671)475-8005/8003

Welder

Camp Cook

Heavy Equip.

Operator Electrician

Sheetmetal Worker

Reinforcing Metalworker Structural Steelworker Plumber

Carpenter

Cement Mason

Other

Thailand

Peru

Italy

Australia

United Kingdom

Kiribati

Japan

Korea

Philippines

United Kingdom 0.00%

Kiribati 0.00%

23.18%

42.91%

1.72%

Common Construction Occupations

Philippines 99.94%

Japan 0.00%

Australia 0.06%

Italy 0.00%

H-2B Population by Nationality

REPORTS/ INFORMATION CONSTRUCTION NEWS BULLETIN

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HOW A RAIN GARDEN WORKS Native Plants

Adapt to local conditions and are easy to maintain once established. Plus, they attract birds, butterflies and other pollinators.

Mulch Layer

Gutters & Down Spouts

Assist with directing rain water from your roof to your rain garden.

Berm

Deep Roots

Plants with a deep root system encourage infiltration and help absorb nutrients.

A berm holds water in the garden during heavy rains.

BENEFITS OF A RAIN GARDEN t 3BJO HBSEFOT BSF TIBMMPX EFQSFTTJPOT XJUI QMBOUT TQFDJåDBMMZ sized and placed to absorb stormwater runoff, the water that flows from your built impervious surfaces such as rooftops, driveways, roads, parking lots when it rains. t 3BJO HBSEFOT BSF B CFBVUJGVM XBZ UP VTF OBUJWF QMBOUT XIJMF reducing the amount of polluted runoff from reaching Guam’s rivers, streams, ocean and the aquifer.

PITI RAIN GARDEN PROJECT

t 3BJO HBSEFOT åMUFS QPMMVUBOUT TVDI BT GFSUJMJ[FST QFTUJDJEFT metals and bacteria out of stormwater runoff. This allows clean water to slowly soak back into the ground and recharge groundwater supplies.

FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT GUAM EPA AT 300.4772 WWW.EPA.GUAM.GOV " .&44"(& #306()5 50 :06 #: 5)& (6". $0"45"- ."/"(&.&/5 130(3". 1"*% '03 '30. (3"/5 /" /04