Editor’s Note: The following excerpt is part of a speech given by Greg High, on behalf of the High Family Council, at a management meeting held in February. We thought it would be appropriate to share this message with all co-workers.
The High Family Council [which consists of Greg High, Dale High, Suzanne High, Sadie High, and Steve High] has been working diligently on a number of items over the past several months that I will touch on; but the first thing we want to make absolutely clear is the deep sense of appreciation that the third generation has for all of the contributions and hard work of prior generations — especially for our coworkers who have for many years poured their hearts, minds, and passion into the success of this organization. Each has provided a lot of value to customers and to those of us who work here . . . to get us to this point where we are today. Without their efforts, none of us (or perhaps fewer of us) would have the privilege of working here today. It is an enormous commitment you all have made — something that the High Family will never take for granted.
Our 100-Year Vision
A Message from the High Family Council
The High Family Council recognizes that, just as there are challenges at the business level, there are also challenges at the ownership level. We are working hard to ensure that we have a smooth and successful transition to the next generation.
While you continue to provide leadership at the management level, the High Family Council is working to build a strong and unified ownership team for generations to come. We are working on a number of fronts – including Dale’s transition. As you all know, Dale has been the owner, Chairman of the Board, and CEO – three critical roles all in one person.
“We are working hard to ensure that we have a smooth and successful transition to the next generation.”
There will never be another Dale, and since we have strong Boards, great management, and great coworkers, our job is to ensure that the role of ownership is clearly defined and effectively fulfilled by Sue, Steve, and myself . . . and eventually by our children. Because of Dale’s all-in-one role, we have not had to worry about the distinct role of ownership. But it is a new day and this work is normal for any family business transition.
So there is a tremendous amount of appreciation for those co-workers who have retired, for those who are working today, and for the management team – for bringing about the change that has been needed over the years. We are grateful and very confident in your abilities.
In addition to clarifying roles, we are looking toward the future and have been working on establishing an ownership vision that will guide the interaction between the family and the business for the next 100 years. So while the Wall Street analysts are looking at next quarter, we are looking at next year and the next 100 years.
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Our 100-Year Vision . . .
We have also been working in conjunction with the Boards of Directors, the Executive Committee, and the management teams at High Steel Structures Inc., High Concrete Group LLC, and soon High Real Estate Group LLC, to help establish that vision for each of the companies, as well. The outcome of this work should be a clear alignment between your vision for your operating companies and our ownership-level perspective on capital allocation and return expectations.
Part of this 100-year vision includes renewal of The High Philosophy and ensuring that our values and culture are reflected in all that we do. The High Family Council feels strongly that everyone who works here should be able to feel a connection to the culture and the long-term goals of the organization. Each co-worker should feel that they have the ability to influence the organization in a way which helps to achieve these long-term goals. Our values and our culture are extremely important to us.
businesses. We are also benchmarking our progress against other successful family businesses like Hatfield Meats and Steinman Enterprises. There is a great deal of work to do. I want you to know that we are working on it and we appreciate your support as we move through this process.
“Part of this 100-year vision includes renewal of The High Philosophy and ensuring that our values and culture are reflected in all that we do.”
It is humbling for me to think about the huge amount of experience and commitment exhibited by everyone in the entire organization. I personally feel a tremendous amount of respect, confidence, and commitment to the High Family Council, to you as very capable leaders and managers of this company, and to every co-worker who could not be with us here this morning.
As we work our way through these and other issues, we are seeking the input of outside consultants who specialize in working with family
As you know, we recently celebrated our 75 th Anniversary and are very much looking forward to our 100-year anniversary in 2031. Clearly, 2009 will be challenging; but this group has faced challenges before. With the right focus and a concerted effort, I know we will persevere and will emerge even stronger. Thank you, again, for your commitment and your confidence in us and our future.
This column recognizes the awards, honors, education, and certifications earned by co-workers. We offer our sincere congratulations to these co-workers on their achievements.
To include your honor, or to honor someone else, forward the pertinent information, within three months of completion, to Laurie Newmoyer, High Corporate Services LLC.
They Give Good Measure
When Sanford H. High said, “Put down a good weld and give good measure,” he set the foundation for The High Philosophy. Not only does The High Philosophy define what Good Measure is, it also calls upon us to recognize and reward the accomplishments of our co-workers. To that end, the Good Measure Award was established, allowing co-workers the opportunity to nominate others who have gone above and beyond the scope of their job responsibilities. Using ingenuity to solve a problem, focusing extra attention on co-worker safety, taking extra steps to make sure the job is done just right . . . that is Good Measure, a quality that can be found in abundance at High®. During 2008, ten co-workers were selected for this honor, and they inspire all of us to go the extra mile. Following are testimonies to their Good Measure:
Joel P. Weaver
Senior Tax Accountant
HIGH
CORPORATE SERVICES LLC
Joel Weaver might best be described as the go-to guy. With twenty-plus years with High, he has become a valuable asset to the company by providing assistance to those in need. Although busy, he is never too busy to lend a hand.
With input from Cathy Shenk, Maria Lorence, Denise Furay, and Greg Bell, Joel was nominated by Wendy Lundgren, who said of her co-worker, “Joel is an exceptional candidate for the Good Measure Award. He reaches far beyond his job description by taking the time to educate and assist his coworkers in both accounting and tax functions, while never losing sight of his own responsibilities.” She also cited his “easy-going style and sense of humor,” traits that make him a pleasant and approachable resource.
When a problem arises, Joel does the research, finds the answer, and trains co-workers so they understand the how and why of the process, enabling them to better perform their job functions. In this way, Joel invests his time and knowledge to secure the future of the High companies. And that is a mark of Good Measure.
Christopher L. Verbeski
Fabrication Planner/Engineering Coordinator
HIGH STEEL STRUCTURES INC.
Chris Verbeski, the sole SAP contact person at Plant Three, worked diligently to ensure a smooth transition to the new system. Following up with co-workers via phone, voice-mail, or e-mail–always in a courteous and professional manner–he made sure that data was entered accurately, and in a timely manner. Chris’ persistence resulted in Plant Three being the first to consistently achieve zero error reports, low scrap inventory, and accurate weekly efficiency reports.
Chris developed Excel Macros that mirrored reports that were previously used. “Not only were these reports more visually palatable for supervisors to do their jobs, they were more accurate than previous reports because of SAP’s automated calculating and one-source data concept.” In addition to the time spent at work, Chris also performed research at home, enabling him to answer SAP users’ questions and to resolve issues as they arose.
Chris was nominated by Ron Runk and Don Lee, who stated that Chris “is deserving of the Good Measure Award for all that he did for the Williamsport SAP users.”
They Give Good Measure . . .
Elizabeth A. Valen Group Controller HIGH CORPORATE SERVICES LLC
In providing customer service, Beth goes beyond just balancing numbers–she analyzes and challenges what she sees.
During a partnership allocation, Beth assisted in an investigation and challenged work papers furnished by an external CPA firm. An error would almost guarantee an audit of the tax returns, and amending the returns would have been time-consuming. Her ‘right the first time’ ethic saved much work and worry.
In another example of Good Measure, Beth researched relevant Georgia tax code, resulting in a refund for overpayment. When others were unable to recreate the refund amount, she patiently outlined her steps in a way that was easy to follow.
Not only is Beth meticulous in her work, she makes sure her team is aware of what is happening.
Nominator Kathy Bell summed it up by saying, “Only by involving co-workers who work with you and for you can you be assured that a plan is well-designed, well-executed, and well-received.”
Joel A. Miller CAM Programmer HIGH STEEL STRUCTURES INC.
With the implementation of SAP, Joel Miller stepped up to the plate. Co-workers counted on his expertise, persistence, and upbeat attitude in resolving their issues with the new system.
During this transition, much of Joel’s time was devoted to Engineering. For some, this might mean that regular work duties are pushed aside; but t his was not the case with Joel. After working a full shift and clocking out, he would call in or return to work at any hour to address the Fabrication Department’s needs. Valuing his customers–in this case, Joel’s co-workers–and meeting their needs remained a top priority which he met with enthusiasm.
THE HIGH PHILOSOPHY
Every company dreams its dreams and sets its standards. These are ours . . . We are committed to two great tasks: 1.Building Trustworthy Relationships.
Joel developed SAP procedures needed to clean up information on projects initially loaded into the system. He also spent several months developing a program to collect efficiency data for the Fabrication areas that proved to be faster and easier to use than the tool within the SAP software.
Valuing our customers and meeting their needs.
Respecting the dignity of all co-workers and their families.
Energizing teamwork with participative management.
Recognizing and rewarding the accomplishments of our co-workers.
Strengthening our partnership with suppliers.
Contributing to a world of beauty and prosperity and peace. 2.Being Innovative Leaders.
Creating an environment for innovation since 1931.
“Right the first time” - High quality products and services.
Investing profits to secure our future. WE GIVE GOOD MEASURE.
Beth’s example of energizing teamwork with participative management is a hallmark of Good Measure.
Doug Shiffler nominated Joel for the Award, saying, “He is ready and able to help whoever is in need, and always with a smile.” His willingness to give of his own time to
improve the productivity of co-workers and keep HSSI’s operations running smoothly makes him a worthy recipient of the Good Measure Award.
They Give Good Measure . . .
Ray K. Leaman
Engineering Systems Supervisor
HIGH STEEL STRUCTURES INC.
Ray received two Good Measure Award nominations for his outstanding work and dedication to ensuring the smooth operation of the Engineering Department’s computers.
Lie Weiler nominated Ray, citing his willingness to troubleshoot and to be available throughout installation of software and training. She said, “The NX training was extremely important to future development with the Engineering Department. Ray was instrumental in making sure that this training occurred, despite some difficult circumstances.”
Ray received a second nomination from Bob Cisneros. He stated that Ray minimized interruption to co-workers by routinely working during off-peak hours and on his own time to maintain and improve the computer system. Bob also noted that, by riding his bike to work in any kind of weather, “Ray is an inspiration to those of us who are following the High Wellness Challenge.”
In addition, Ray negotiates to transfer or convert licenses from system-to-system, resulting in significant savings for the company. His dedication and innovation make him an admirable Good Measure Award recipient.
Sean P. Heymann
Small Engine/Equipment Mechanic
HIGH REAL ESTATE GROUP LLC
When trees for a tenant were installed by a subcontractor in the wrong locations, Sean could have contacted the sub to move them. Instead, he put customer satisfaction first and moved them himself. With a tree stump in the way, and without a stump grinder in tow, he removed it the old-fashioned way; by chopping
it out manually, enabling him to complete the job that same day.
Sean routinely takes on additional responsibilities, such as answering snow emergency calls, a task usually rotated among co-workers on a biweekly basis. He makes snow removal a priority, working nearly twice the overtime of the average co-worker in order to get the job done. Sean is able to perform every job in Grounds Maintenance, as well as roofing, ice blasting, mechanics, and CDL truck driving.
Nominator Steve Witmer said, “When Sean is on the job, you can be sure that it is going to be accomplished well and efficiently. He leads by giving Good Measure every day, no matter what that job is.”
Rand E. Henry
Senior Maintenance Mechanic
Kris J. Price Maintenance Mechanic HIGH CONCRETE GROUP LLC
Rand and Kris were referred to as HCGL’s “S.W.A.T. team,” traveling between the Denver, Buena, and Williamsport plants to install new forms and modify or repair old ones. Playing key roles in setting up forms for the Mets Stadium job, they later modified those same forms for the Giants Stadium, saving time and money.
Rand’s idea to modify a tractor trailer cover to shelter outside concrete forms lead to the successful installation of a prototype cover used on a Denver
Rand Henry
They Give Good Measure . . .
column form, and a second much larger prototype to cover stadium forms at Buena. Rand’s innovation resulted in a more efficient cover, which cost 50 percent less than the temporary structures being considered.
Following the installation of a new form in Buena on a Friday morning, Kris and Rand returned to Denver, only to receive a call from the Manufacturing Department. The form had a serious deviation in design, which the manufacturer said could not be corrected for weeks. Rand changed his personal plans, returned to Buena on Saturday, and completed the necessary modifications so that production could begin on Monday.
Kirby Wiest, who nominated Kris and Rand, wrote, “Their actions directly increase profits and help to secure HCGL’s market share of the precast industry.”
Raymond K. Heiber
Electrical Mechanical Person
HIGH STEEL SERVICE CENTER LLC
Ray is a dual nominee, having received two Good Measure nominations. Co-workers cited his positive attitude and energy when working on equipment maintenance, collateral duties, or special projects.
The first nomination came from Jason Erb and Mike Wiggins (with input from Jim Walters and Ron Koring). They wrote, “He is always there when we need him and is always positive, even when we are not.”
Specifically mentioned were his efforts in
solving an equipment problem; qualities such as persistence and wisdom were mentioned. Ray respected his co-workers by communicating his thoughts and ideas throughout the repair process.
In addition, Ray received the Good Measure nod from Pat Donley, who cited Ray’s dedication to customer service, exemplary work ethic, and contributions to process improvement. Pat wrote, “Ray’s persistence in equipment fault resolution is unrivaled. He is the standard by which Good Measure is calibrated. Ray Heiber is truly a role model who lives The High Philosophy.”
David T. Bowers Carpenter
HIGH REAL ESTATE GROUP LLC
Dave has a can do attitude, willingly doing what is asked of him. “Right the first time” is a motto that Dave exemplifies in his daily work. So when he was approached about taking on responsibility as Safety Coordinator at the Marriott Lancaster at Penn Square and Lancaster County Convention Center project, he readily accepted.
Dave has been instrumental in the success of the project’s safety program. During three consecutive OSHA inspections, High Construction Company received no citations, and contractors on the jobsite were issued only a few citations for minor infractions. Other prime contractors have reaped the benefits of his conscientious efforts and attention to detail. His unwavering standards in the area of safety demonstrate leadership skills and a concern for his co-workers.
Dave’s outstanding work ethic earned him the nomination from Kevin Miduri who said, “He should be the recipient of this award because, thanks to him, every person on the Penn Square project has worked in a safer environment.”
Kris Price
High Life
Safe Co-Workers
Are The Real Stars:
HSSI’s Lancaster Facility Is Recertified As An OSHA VPP Star Site
Ahearty “Congratulations!” is in order for our co-workers at High Steel Structures Inc.’s (HSSI) Lancaster facility, recently honored with recertification as a Voluntary Protection Program (VPP) Star site by OSHA for recognition of safety and health excellence. This honor is experienced by a relatively small number of businesses throughout the United States.
HSSI’s Lancaster facility in 1983 was the nation’s very first VPP Star site, and was again recognized in 2000 with VPP Star recognition and approval. HSSI’s Williamsport facility received designation as a VPP Star site in 2007.
“These distinguished OSHA designations over the years at HSSI’s facilities are a tribute to a daily dedication to working safely on the part of our management and co-worker team,” said Tom Kennedy, President and CEO, High Industries Inc.
When the OSHA VPP Audit Team visited the facility to review policies, procedures, and programs, and to talk to co-workers through formal and informal interviews, they identified absolutely no follow-up items or recommendations as a result of their audit. This achievement makes the recognition even more remarkable!
HSSI’s safety coordinator Ken Eberle attributes the company’s exemplary safety culture to best practices that include the following:
recognizing and immediately correcting unsafe conditions and behaviors.
taking time to make safe choices.
addressing issues of safety routinely at meetings.
conducting internal safety audits.
maintaining good housekeeping.
broad participation by co-workers on safety and ergonomics teams.
“Recognizing we are each others’ keeper and working safely will remain our priority,” said Jeffrey Sterner, President, High Steel Structures Inc. “Thank you to all HSSI co-workers for your continuous efforts to make our company a leader in workplace safety.”
HCC Is Named General Contractor Of The Year
For the second consecutive year, High Construction Company (HCC) was honored with the 2008 General Contractor of the Year award. Presented by the American Subcontractors Association of Central Pennsylvania (ASACP), an association of professional contractors, the award recognizes general contractors as they relate to subcontractors. Criteria includes bidding fairness and ethics, equitable contract provisions, safety policies and practices, payment practices, job supervision, scheduling, and subcontractor relations procedures.
The award was presented at ASACP’s 11th Annual Constructor Awards Gala, held on Saturday, March 28, 2009, at the Holiday Inn–East, Harrisburg, Pennsylvania.
This recognition underscores tenets of The High Philosophy, including building trustworthy relationships and strengthening partnerships
High Life
with suppliers, and demonstrates the commitment of every HCC co-worker to deliver those values in every project they do. This award for both 2007 and 2008 shows strong and consistent dedication to these values. Congratulations, HCC co-workers, on this outstanding achievement!
High Hotels Earn Awards
High Hotels Ltd. (HHL) strives to provide the best in service and accommodations in their industry. So it is no wonder that HHL continues to earn top awards in its respective brands year after year. Here are the latest in an impressive line of awards:
COURTYARD BY MARRIOTT
Lancaster, Pennsylvania
For the third consecutive year, Marriott International, Inc. has recognized the Courtyard by Marriott–Lancaster with the Platinum Circle Award at the Annual Marriott Convention, held in New Orleans, Louisiana. The hotel earned the award for achieving an overall satisfaction score of greater than 90 percent for excellence in customer service and product quality, ranking
the hotel among the top two percent of the more than 700 Courtyard hotels worldwide.
COURTYARD BY MARRIOTT
Middletown, New York
Marriott International, Inc. has named the Courtyard by Marriott–Middletown, New York, a Gold Circle Award winner at their annual convention in New Orleans. Recognized from among more than 700 Courtyard hotels worldwide, the hotel was selected based on an overall satisfaction rating determined from guest survey scores and regular property inspections. This is the fifth consecutive year the Middletown hotel has received this award.
HOMEWOOD SUITES BY HILTON Reading, Pennsylvania Homewood Suites by Hilton has presented the Homewood Suites by Hilton–Reading with the Pride Award, placing this hotel fifth among the more than 240 Homewood Suites hotels worldwide. This award, presented at the Hilton Family of Hotels conference in San Diego, California, was based on customer survey ratings, general property inspection scores, and least number of guest problems experienced.
The hotel also earned the Awards of Merit for Most Improved in Overall Experience and Front Desk Team of the Year. Since its opening in 1999, the hotel has been recognized as one of the highest rated Homewood hotels in the nation, consistently remaining in the top ten percent of the brand based on quality and customer service scores. Congratulations to the Lancaster, Reading, and Middletown teams on these outstanding achievements!
The Award-Winning HCC Team
Summit Marks Safety Achievements
To celebrate 2008 safety achievements, the High Corporate Environmental Health and Safety (EHS) team held a Safety Summit on March 31, 2009. During the Summit, the President’s Award recipients were selected from among those who achieved Safety Circle status. The President’s Award is presented to two locations – one from High Industries Inc. (HII) and one from High Real Estate Group LLC (HREGL) – and recognizes outstanding safety performance at High®
Recipients of the President’s Safety Circle award offered brief presentations explaining how they achieved their outstanding safety records and why they believe they should receive the coveted President’s Award. Following the presentations, attendees cast votes to determine the winner.
As a result of their hard work, extraordinary safety records, and great presentations, High Steel Structures Inc.–Williamsport (HII), and Hilton Garden Inn–
Wilkes-Barre (HREGL) were the recipients of President’s Awards.
Selection for the President’s Safety Circle is based upon each location’s 2008 OSHA Recordable Incident Rate performance, as well as results of a 2008 Corporate EHS Audit. Consideration is given for the target achieved, as well as the improvement over the previous year’s results.
High Industries Inc. President’s Award Recipient HIGH STEEL STRUCTURES INC.-WILLIAMSPORT
Left to right: Tom Kennedy, HII President and CEO; Tom Hinkle, Industrial Engineer; Larry Brown, Senior Vice President of Human Resources; Sue Weniger, Human Resources Manager; Ron Runk, Plant Manager - Williamsport.
SAFETY CIRCLE AWARD RECIPIENTS AND PRESENTERS
HIGH INDUSTRIES INC.
High Concrete Group LLC. – Denver, PennsylvaniaDennis Lehman
High Concrete Group LLC – Paxton, IllinoisRandy Bare
High Concrete Group LLC – Springboro, OhioJodi Hoover
High Steel Structures Inc. – Lancaster, PennsylvaniaBarbara Bachman
High Steel Structures Inc. – Williamsport*, Pennsylvania
High Steel Structures – Williamsport*,
High Steel Structures Inc. – Williamsport*, Pennsylvania
High Steel Structures – Williamsport*, T Tom Hinkle om Hinkle
HIGH REAL ESTATE GROUP LLC
High Associates Ltd. – Greenfield Estates – Lancaster, PennsylvaniaDiane Carter and Stephanie Dillard
High Associates Ltd. – Orchard Ridge – Pottstown, PennsylvaniaRebecca Raczka and Amanda Rosenbaum Courtyard by Marriott - Lancaster, PennsylvaniaChris Schnee
Hilton Garden Inn – Wilkes Barre* Hilton Inn – Wilkes Barre* Hilton Garden Inn – Wilkes Barre* Hilton Inn – Wilkes Barre* Barre*, Pennsylvania ,, Pennsylvania
Heather Fogle, Fogle, Heather Fogle, Fogle, T T T T Tim Brice im im Brice im im Brice
Homewood Suites – Reading, PennsylvaniaGlen Opel
*President’s Award Recipient
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Congratulations and thank you to all who took part in the Safety Summit. The constant focus on the well-being of our fellow coworkers is one of the strengths that makes High an outstanding and safe place to work.
High Real Estate Group LLC President’s Award Recipient HILTON GARDEN INN–WILKES-BARRE
HAL Opens Self-Storage Facility
Premier Self-Storage at Greenfield Offers State-Of-The-Art Facilities
High Associates Ltd. (HAL) is pleased to announce a new self-storage facility in Greenfield Corporate Center. Premier Self-Storage at Greenfield, a 79,000-square-foot facility, is its first venture into this product type. The decision to enter this business was based upon requests from both residential and commercial/industrial clients, as well as research indicating that this market is underserved.
Located at 170 Independence Court, Lancaster, the facility was designed by Greenfield Architects Ltd., with High Construction Company serving as general contractor.
This three-story facility offers more than 700 units ranging in size from 25 square-feet to 300 square-feet. The climate-controlled environment is ideal for furniture, clothing, antiques, and documents. Distinctive features include a freight elevator, sprinkler system, vending area, restrooms, appliance dollies and carts, 24-hour controlled access, and a state-of-the-art security system with door controls and 16 surveillance cameras with
Left to right: Nevin Cooley, HREGL President and CEO; Heather Fogle, General Manager; Tim Brice, Maintenance Engineer; Frank McCabe, President of High Hotels Ltd.; Larry Brown, Senior Vice President of Human Resources.
Laurèl Rolle (above), Chris Schnee, and Jeremy Geib (below) show that safety can be fun!
High Life
video recording. Affordable monthly rates, flexible lease terms, easy payment methods, and a retail store that offers packaging supplies make this facility a standout in the Lancaster County market.
Premier Self-Storage at Greenfield is scheduled to open July 1, 2009. You may visit the website at www.premierselfstoragepa.com. For specific rates and lease reservations, call 717-735-9920, or contact Mike Lorelli, HAL, at mlorelli@high.net.
HTL Makes Recycling A
‘Crushing’ Experience
Akey focus of High Transit LLC’s (HTL) day-to-day operations is the maintenance of more than 500 pieces of equipment. Replacing fluids and filters to keep machines running smoothly and efficiently is a big part of the job.
In the past, used filters were turned
upside down to drain for a few days before going to the incinerator, leaving much of the fluid trapped inside the filter. HTL in Lancaster recently installed filtercrushing equipment, making it possible to extract more than 90 percent of the petroleum-based fluids from those filters. The fluids, including gasoline, diesel fuel, hydraulic oils, and engine oils, are reused in a process for the roofing materials industry. The steel filter bodies are crushed to approximately one-eighth of their original size and recycled.
Taking this innovative process one step further, the filter crushing equipment was retrofitted into a special wall-hung cabinet designed by Mike Bresch. Not only does the cabinet serve as a neat and convenient place to crush filters, it also provides safety features to ensure that the crushing equipment will not work unless the cabinet is closed, eliminating a pinching hazard in the process.
HTL co-workers replace approximately 2,400 filters annually, which adds up to several hundred gallons of extracted fluid that is now reused. The success of the Lancaster program has prompted the installation of a similar crushing unit at the Fleet Maintenance Department at Plant Three in Williamsport, Pennsylvania.
A rendering of Premier Self-Storage at Greenfield.
Walking To Fight Racism
Co-Workers Join The Lancaster YWCA’s Race Against Racism
In the spirit of caring for our community, High ® co-workers, family members, friends, and a dog joined forces in the Lancaster YWCA’s Eleventh Annual Race Against Racism . Held on Saturday, April 24, 2009, in downtown Lancaster, Pennsylvania, the team was comprised of more that 50 people from nearly every High company. While it is called a ‘race’, participants walked, jogged, ran, and trotted the 3.1 mile course.
The event builds awareness of racism and its negative impact on the community, and raises funds to support anti-racism programs.
High co-workers who participated in this event fulfilled #12 of the 2009 High Wellness Challenge. Thank you to all who participated, and especially to Michelle McCann for organizing the High team.
HSSI Partners With Lancaster Science Factory
Building Children’s Understanding of Bridge Construction
High Steel Structures Inc. (HSSI) has partnered with the Lancaster Science Factory to create a Build-a-Truss-Bridge exhibit for the Science Factory’s 2009 exhibit floor. This new exhibit will allow visitors to assemble a truss bridge similar in design, if not scale, to the ones built by HSSI.
With small aluminum members and gusset plates, children will be able to experiment with truss configurations until they are successful in figuring out a successful design for a weight-bearing structure. They will then be able to apply their understanding by constructing a load-bearing bridge using a K’NEX-brand construction toy kit.
This exhibit will be on display beginning June 30, 2009.
The High Race Against Racism Team.
Focusing On Green-Related Products and Services
One of the key objectives of the recently announced Green Initiative at the High® companies is reduction of our carbon footprint through careful management of greenhouse gas emissions and an environmentally responsible approach to the processes that we use to produce and deliver our products and services.
A second important thrust of the Green Initiative will be to build upon our offering of environmentally responsible products and services aligned with the green movement –applied both to our own projects and to help customers meet their green-related objectives.
Several business units have been working for some time to build teams of LEED® (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design)-accredited professionals. For example, there are six LEED-accredited professionals at High Concrete Group LLC (HCGL), three at High Construction Company (HCC), and one at Greenfield Architects Ltd. (GAL). Additionally, a team member at High Safety Consulting Services LLC (HSCSL) has been certified through the Green Advantage® program. Reaching these levels of expertise allows us to guide our customers’ and our own projects using sustainability guidelines, resulting in more energy efficient and environmentally friendly projects.
The first High structure to be built to LEED certification standards was the 16,200square-foot precast HCGL, Denver, Pennsylvania, maintenance building
dedicated last year. GAL and HCC teamed to deliver this design-build project and prepared the documentation for LEED Silver submission. HCGL supplied precast concrete products used to create this facility, including thermally efficient wall panels and CarbonCast® double tees used for the roof. Precast concrete can contribute 29 or more points toward LEED certification.
Another area of emphasis in the field of construction is responsible materials recycling. In HCC’s recent reconstruction of a Pennsylvania Turnpike plaza in Allentown (photo below), for example, everything that could be recycled was recycled. Concrete and stone façade from the old plaza were crushed and used as fill to bring the site up to grade and as underslab material for the new building, saving on hauling and reducing the need for new materials. That in turn saved money and energy. Copper pipes, the metal from old food service equipment, structural steel, and metal studs were saved for recycling. Wood retrieved from the demolition was recycled for mulch. Gypsum drywall was recovered so it could be recycled into new wallboard. Re-use like that reduces disposal charges and saves landfill space.
These are just a few examples that help illustrate the direction in which we are moving and the momentum we are building in the area of environmental stewardship. With our robust dedication to our Green Initiative, we will continue to build our portfolio of green-related products and services.
SMOKETOWN, PA
Easter Bunny Visits Greenfield Corporate Center
Ablustery, bright Spring day heralded the arrival of a favorite furry friend to the Greenfield Corporate Center. The Easter Bunny made his appearance at the Calvin G. High Pavilion on Saturday, April 6, 2009, to greet co-workers and their children. He also brought 2,000 plastic eggs filled with toys, candy, stickers, and tattoos.
Approximately 115 children attended the event and were divided into four groups
according to age. In each group, there were three specially marked eggs which entitled the child who gathered it to a Toys R Us gift card. Every child received a Friendly’s gift card and an Easter photo frame magnet craft kit, just perfect for displaying their photo with the Easter Bunny.
Thank you to all co-workers who volunteered their time, and to Tina Byler for organizing this fun event.
