High Spirit
High Spirit
Acknowledgements
Thank you for your Thank you for your Thank you for your Thank you for your Thank you for your help in producing help producing this edition of this edition of High Spirit: High High Spirit: High
Crissy Anderson Crissy Anderson Crissy Anderson Crissy Anderson Crissy Anderson
Rick Bennett Rick Bennett
Steve Evans Steve Evans Evans
Kathy Frey Frey Kathy Frey Frey
Lisa Fulginiti Lisa Fulginiti Lisa Fulginiti Lisa Fulginiti Lisa Fulginiti
Darryl Gordon Darryl Gordon Darryl Gordon Darryl Gordon
Carolyn Jordan Carolyn Jordan Carolyn Jordan Carolyn Jordan Carolyn Jordan
Ron Koring Ron Koring
Michelle McCann Michelle McCann Michelle McCann Michelle McCann
David Nice Nice David Nice Nice David Nice
David Nicholas Nicholas
Jane Owens Jane Owens
Stephanie Reese Stephanie Reese Stephanie Reese Stephanie Reese Stephanie Reese
Elaine Richard Elaine Richard Elaine Richard Elaine Richard Richard
Kelly Roeder Roeder Kelly Roeder Roeder
Laurie Salzmann Laurie Salzmann
John Sandy John Sandy John Sandy John Sandy
Robin Stauffer Robin Stauffer Robin
Laurie W Laurie W Laurie W Laurie W Watson atson atson atson
Sue W W Sue W W Weniger eniger eniger eniger eniger
On The Cover . . .
The Great Tricycle Race!
Corporate Office co-workers enjoyed watching and participating in The Great Tricycle Race, the final event of their United Way Campaign. Whether sponsoring a favorite peddler or participating in the race, a great time was had by all. Even better, these good sports raised an additional $485.00, which was donated to United Way.
Read more about the 2009 High® United Way Campaign on page 13.
comments and suggestions are
HThe Year In Review
By S. Dale High, Chairman
appy New Year, and welcome to a new decade! We are at that time of year when we review all of the things that happened during the prior year, and perhaps the prior decade, and savor the good memories that we can reflect on at other times in our lives. While 2009 was a very challenging year in many respects, it is always fitting to recognize the achievements that occurred within the High® companies and to lift up the successes that are worth celebrating. While overall financial results may not have been consistent with plan, and in some cases were disappointing, it was clear that our team of co-workers worked very hard in 2009.
While 2009 was a very challenging year in many respects, it is always fitting to recognize the achievements that occurred within the High® companies and to lift up the successes that are worth celebrating.
-S. Dale High
During 2009, High Steel Structures Inc. (HSSI) continued on its journey to modernize its fabrication processes by installing new Farley LaserLabs at Lancaster and Williamsport. These machines use the most modern plasma-cutting technology for burning steel plates, and they drill holes with Computer Numerical Control (CNC) to ensure precision fit for bridge assemblies. HSSI’s erection crews were busy this year, as well, completing over $9 million in bridge erection work, a new record for this small, but very important group of co-workers, including: Gay Street Arch Bridge in Phoenixville, Pennsylvania; approach
ramps to the Commodore Barry Bridge in Chester, Pennsylvania; and several of the HOT Lanes bridges on and over the I-495 beltway around Washington, DC. HSSI was also called upon for emergency repairs on two jobs. The Route 90 bridge in Maryland over Assawoman Bay is one of two bridges that connect Ocean City with the mainland, and it was closed to traffic due to cracks in the precast girders. HSSI was able to fabricate eight new girders in three weeks to get the bridge back in service. In Michigan, a tanker truck ran into a bridge abutment resulting in the truck exploding into flames and damaging portions of the nine-mile bridge overhead. Again, HSSI was called upon to fabricate 18 new girders and shipped them to Michigan ahead of schedule.
High Concrete Group LLC (HCGL) achieved several notable accomplishments in 2009, in light of a very difficult market. They worked jointly with High Steel Structures Inc., creating the “High Bridge Team”, and continued to focus on safety by beating the yearly OSHA recordable incident goal at both the Denver, Pennsylvania, and Buena, New Jersey, plants. The new maintenance facility that was constructed at the Denver plant in 2008 gained LEED (silver) certification in 2009, and a number of projects
The Year In Review . . .
were submitted for industry recognition, which resulted in a total of 12 awards for precast design and construction excellence. The thermally efficient, lightweight CarbonCast ® Insulated Cladding Panel was launched in 2009, the first in the industry, and High’s only full e-commerce website ( www.highconcreteaccessories.com), and one of the few e-commerce sites in the precast supply industry, was also launched.
High Steel Service Center LLC (HSSCL) results were dramatically impacted in 2009 by the economic recession and experienced a 20 percent collapse in the price of steel. As a result, industry shipments fell by 37 percent. In this environment, however, HSSCL was able to achieve some successes. A record low Recordable Frequency Rating of 2.1 percent was achieved, with only one recordable accident. The sales team increased participation at several key target accounts, and accounts receivable
service for municipal and city clients continued to grow in 2009, and in the latter part of the year, HSCSL launched an on-line training option, which provides OSHA education anywhere in the country. HSCSL is working with the Mid-Atlantic OSHA Training Institute to deliver instructortrainer programs in construction and general industry, and the team continues to explore options for growth into new markets and geographies.
After more than 11 years, the Lancaster Marriott at Penn Square and Lancaster County Convention Center opened its doors with a ribbon cutting ceremony on June 18, 2009, with many co-workers and community leaders in attendance. A number of High companies participated in bringing this project to a successful completion, including High Associates Ltd., High Construction Company, High Concrete Group LLC, and the Corporate Finance Team.
DSO averaged 39.3, with minimal bad debt experience. Even in this environment, HSSCL was able to maintain sound customer quality and on-time delivery metrics, two important measures in the Service Center business.
High Safety Consulting Services Ltd. (HSCSL) experienced a challenging year in 2009 as it saw customers close their doors, downsize, and cut costs by reducing consulting contracts. The staff continued with personal development by acquiring additional certifications and qualifications. Code enforcement contract
For the second year in a row, High Construction Company (HCC) was named General Contractor of the Year by the American Subcontractors Association of Central Pennsylvania, an honor bestowed on general contractors who demonstrate bidding fairness and ethics, equitable contractor provisions, safety policies and practices, sound payment practices, job supervision, and scheduling. Construction was also completed on two award-winning projects recognized for “green” attributes – the Allentown Turnpike Plaza and a new building for Lancaster Mennonite High School – and the HCC team
The opening of the Lancaster Marriott at Penn Square and Lancaster County Convention Center was a highlight of 2009.
The Year In Review . . .
continued its strong focus on safety by achieving the lowest OSHA recordable rate in the company’s history.
High Hotels Ltd. (HHL) continued on its path to grow the number of hotels in its portfolio by commencing construction on the SpringHill Suites by Marriott in Ewing, New Jersey – its 11th hotel. The hotel is scheduled to open in April 2010. Marriott Hotels recognized two of our hotels in 2009 with awards – the Courtyard by Marriott in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, was recognized with the Platinum Award, and the Courtyard by Marriott in Middletown, New York, received the Gold Award – both for outstanding guest satisfaction and product inspections. The Lancaster Hampton Inn successfully completed its 20year re-licensing process, which included the completion of a major renovation to the lobby, as well as other upgrades throughout the facility, and the Hilton Garden Inn in Wilkes Barre, Pennsylvania, was recognized with the President’s Safety Award in 2009.
implementation of SAP’s Preventative Maintenance module at HCGL and HSSCL, which will provide improved equipment maintenance visibility, along with reduction of manual systems used in the past. As a collaborative effort between High Associates Ltd. (HAL), Accounting Services, and Information Services, a three-year technology implementation plan has been developed, which supports HAL’s strategic initiatives developed during the 2009 planning process.
The new High companies website, www.high.net, was launched.
New modernized websites for High.net and High Concrete Accessories were launched in 2009. These sites were designed to meet the evolving needs of the business units and strengthen the presence of High on the Internet. As the starting point for co-worker communication and a central repository of information, the “High Home” Intranet site was launched, which provides news articles, electronic phone listings, company policies, and much more to keep co-workers informed. It is anticipated that High Home will continue to grow during 2010 as more ideas are identified to manage information.
Co-workers in the Shared Resource Units were challenged to provide support for the many activities of the Strategic Business Units throughout the year. Accounting Services and Information Services participated in the implementation of a variety of new software enhancements, including the SAP fixed asset system for all HII-related companies, and
Legal and Treasury was successful renewing property insurance coverage with an overall 23 percent premium reduction, a three-year rate lock, and policy enhancements. The team was instrumental in securing a construction/minipermanent financing for the new SpringHill Suites in Ewing, New Jersey, refinancing the Hampton Inn
The Year In Review . . .
in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, and renewing a 30month term revolving line of credit for High Industries Inc. Litigation was resolved on behalf of HCGL against Koralath of New England, and a claim was closed out against a property insurer for the loss suffered by HCGL as a result of the fire at its Lebanon, Pennsylvania, facility.
The Tax Department secured Federal tax benefits in 2009 for qualifying energy efficient commercial property for the lighting project upgrades for both HSSI and HCGL, and New Jersey equipment tax credits were realized for the HCGL Buena facility. Cost segregation studies were completed to accelerate tax deductions for Prosperity Place, Penn Square Partners, and the HCGL maintenance building, and the restructuring and capitalization of the Mill Creek Square entities were completed in conjunction with the project moving forward.
During 2009, Wellness Programs continued to promote weight loss, increased physical activity, flu immunizations, and smoking cessation with participation by hundreds of co-workers, and 15 sessions of “High Leadership 2009” were conducted in the first half of the year, bringing
High Honors
Ttogether managers and supervisors to discuss current issues involving effective trust-building and maintaining the High culture.
High co-workers not only work hard, they give back to their communities. In 2009, co-workers pledged $247,957 to the annual United Way Campaign, representing an increase in per capita giving from $229.10 in 2008 to $261.59 in 2009. Coworkers also participated in and supported many other important causes throughout the year, all of which contributed toward an enhanced quality of life in the communities in which we do business.
It is unfortunate that space limits our ability to recognize more of the outstanding accomplishments achieved in 2009, as those listed here barely scratch the surface. On behalf of the High Family, thank you for all of your efforts! As we look forward to the year before us, we continue to face challenges in many of our operating units; however, there are also many new opportunities to make things happen. I know I can count on all of you to persevere and come through this tumultuous time a stronger, more viable, family of companies.
his 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 Company LLC.
High Life
Construction Begins On Mill Creek Square
High Real Estate Group LLC Affiliates Join Forces On Retail Project
Congratulations to the team at High Real Estate Group LLC for beginning construction on its third retail project, Mill Creek Square, in East Lampeter Township, Lancaster County, Pennsylvania. The opening of the shopping center is planned for October 2010.
High Associates Ltd. (HAL) is the managing agent, and Greenfield Architects Ltd. and High Construction Company are providing the project’s design and construction. The Brokerage Services Division of HAL is leasing the shops and out-parcels.
The 286,000 square-foot community shopping center is located along the commercial corridor of US Route 30. It will be anchored by a Kohl’s department store, as well as Ross Dress for Less, Bed Bath & Beyond, and Christmas Tree Shops. Phase one of the project is already 82 percent leased.
“We are particularly pleased to be able to launch this project,” said Steve Evans,
Senior Vice President and Managing Director of the Retail Division. “The fundamental strength of the Lancaster market and its appeal to national retailers enables us to proceed.”
Mill Creek Square will offer convenient shopping options for residents living in the eastern portion of Lancaster County.
High Steel
Structures Inc.
Mobilizes Its Forces To Exceed The Customer’s Needs
When a routine inspection of the Route 90 Bridge over the Assawoman Bay in Ocean City, Maryland, revealed previously undetected structural damage at the bridge’s navigational span, the Maryland State Highway Authority (SHA) closed the bridge for emergency repairs. Concern about the ability of the bridge to carry truck loads initially prompted the restriction of vehicles over 6,000 pounds. It was quickly determined that one span of the 38 year-old bridge could not be repaired and needed to be closed immediately so the section could be replaced.
A steel girder superstructure was selected for the span replacement, because it weighed less than other replacement alternatives. This allowed for more of the bridge to be preserved, reducing repair costs.
High Steel Structures Inc. (HSSI) was called into action and given notice to proceed with
High Life
the fabrication work on October 6, 2009, while the design was still being finalized. Due to this fast track approach, the first shipment of steel arrived at the jobsite on October 27. “High Steel had the resources available in both material needs and manpower to fit this project into the shop flow, waiving the standard lead times,” stated Paul Lipinsky, Project Manager. “Having the material already on hand allowed us to dramatically cut fabrication time and begin delivery of the steel only three weeks after given notice to proceed.”
HSSI’s Engineering Department worked closely with the designer and the Maryland SHA to expedite the design and detail drawings approval process. A Fabrication Project Manager was assigned to shepherd the project through fabrication.
Work on the 85-foot portion of the bridge, which carries 18,000 vehicles into the popular beach resort each day, was anticipated to finish in mid-December, but the bridge re-opened on November 24, nearly two weeks early and just in time for the Thanksgiving holiday.
“We were delighted that repairs were completed not only on time, but ahead of time,” said Ocean City Mayor Rick Meehan. “This benefits the business community and is a vital safety improvement.”
In a letter to HSSI President Jeffrey Sterner, Earle Freedman, SHA’s Director, Office of Structures, thanked HSSI for its fast response, citing a similar situation on the Old Severn River Bridge that occurred in 1979.
“It is extremely comforting to have a relationship with a firm like yours,” wrote Freedman. “We called upon High Steel then, as we did now. A positive reaction to a similar problem by your firm, 30 years later, is a true example of why your firm continues to have such a fine reputation.”
Business relationships such as this are not uncommon to HSSI. Valuing our customers and meeting their needs is a hallmark of The High Philosophy, and a standard established from the very beginning of the company’s history.
Congratulations, HSSI co-workers, for your outstanding work on this important project.
The replacement span from above and below.
Girders are loaded for shipment to the jobsite.
High Steel Service Center LLC Commits To Continuous Improvement
High Steel Service Center LLC (HSSCL) began its annual Strategic Planning process in the second quarter of 2009. After selection of four key strategic initiatives for the 2010-2014 planning period, participants were introduced to the policy deployment process that has been successfully implemented by other High® companies. The policy deployment process is a tool to help companies execute strategic initiatives.
One of the selected strategic initiatives is to reduce the operating cost per ton in order to position HSSCL to offer more competitive
pricing. This will allow HSSCL to grow its volume, increase capacity utilization, and improve the financial return. A key component to achieving this objective was the introduction of the Value Stream Mapping (VSM) process. Participants completed the four-day VSM training and orientation during the first week in November. Co-workers embraced the process and provided valuable input as they identified an extensive list of opportunities for improvement. Positive attitudes and creative ideas resulted in 45 ‘Projects’, 27 ‘Just Do Its’ and 22 ‘Continual Improvement Events’. The ‘Just Do Its’ are suggestions and recommendations that could be implemented immediately, allowing HSSCL to quickly begin benefiting from our coworkers’ valuable insights and experiences.
HSSCL conducted its first Rapid Improvement Event in December, 2009. Two more events were scheduled in January, 2010. The remainder of the events have been with target completion dates throughout 2010.
Thank you, HSSCL co-workers, on your commitment to continuous improvement. Your support and cooperation in this process is appreciated, and will enable HSSCL to move forward in executing its future strategic initiatives.
New SpringHill Suites Hotel Construction
Continues
The newest addition to the High Hotels Ltd. (HHL) portfolio is targeted for a Spring 2010 opening. The SpringHill Suites hotel in Ewing, New Jersey, is more than 55 percent complete. HHL is excited to add this 134-room SpringHill Suites to the list of other Marriott brands it offers, including
Co-workers take part in the Value Stream Mapping process.
High Life
two Courtyard by Marriott hotels – one in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, and the other in Middletown, New York.
Keith Komon joined the HHL team as General Manager, and is responsible for preopening efforts and, upon opening of the hotel, will provide day-to-day management.
Following High ’s commitment to provide sustainable products and services, the hotel is being built with energy efficient interior and exterior lighting. Recycling will also be a part of daily operations.
Construction continues and is on track for a mid-April opening of the hotel.
Construction Projects Earn Praise For Two High Companies
Two High companies - Greenfield Architects Ltd. (GAL) and High Construction Company (HCC) - were recently recognized by their customers for outstanding performance.
The Hotel Hershey Retail Corridor project earned high marks for HCC. In an end-ofconstruction survey, they were rated a
perfect five out of five in the categories of overall communication, construction quality, project manager performance, project superintendent performance, job site cleanliness, teamwork among contractors, and handling of punch list items.
The survey respondent noted that HCC personnel, working in a busy area of hotel operations, were able to accommodate guests and staff during this construction, and keep disruption of daily operations to a minimum.
Dan Pietropola was Project Manager, Jennifer Mader was Assistant Project Manager, and John Burkholder served as Superintendent for this project.
The Courtyard by Marriott-Wyomissing, Pennsylvania, earned praises for the GAL and HCC teams. A letter from a Rock Creek Hospitality representative, on behalf of 3D Reading Hotel Partners, cited HCC’s clear communication and project coordination as key to the project’s success.
“In all the construction projects we have completed in our 30 years in this business, we cannot remember one that was managed better than this project. We loved working with High Construction and Greenfield Architects, and certainly will use your company again.”
Ross Ansel was the project’s Architect. Dave Hersey was Project Manager, Ryan Schrum was Assistant Project Manager, Steve Kauffman was the Superintendent, and Bob Algoe served as Foreman.
The dedication and hard work of the HCC and GAL teams not only shows that they value customers and meet their needs, but that they exceed the customers’ expectations. Congratulations on these outstanding accomplishments!
High Life
Co-Workers And Their Families
Celebrate The Holidays
The Co-worker Activities (CA) Committee coordinated the 2009 Children’s Christmas Party and Breakfast with Santa events, which were held in December. Co-workers from the Lancaster and Williamsport, Pennsylvania locations, and the Springboro, Ohio plant, were joined by family members to enjoy a morning filled with food and fellowship.
All participants were treated to a hot, hearty breakfast. Santa and his elves joined the festivities, distributing gifts to children 12 years of age and younger. Children were also given an opportunity to have their photo taken with Santa, bringing tears to a few, and smiles to most.
Children of co-workers from the Williamsport area pose with Santa.
The CA Committee extends its gratitude to all of the elves who helped to make these events a success.
High Associates Ltd. and High Transit LLC (Lancaster) co-workers threw some muscle into the mix by lifting and transporting the toys from the store, to storage, and to the event.
The High Beamers retiree group wrapped the more than 400 toys which were distributed to children.
Co-workers and co-workers’ older children volunteered to serve as elves, assist with face painting, and to perform various other duties critical to the event’s success.
Coordinators in Williamsport, Pennsylvania, and Springboro, Ohio, took time out of their busy schedules to make this a fun holiday event for the children.
The Children’s Christmas Party and Breakfast with Santa is a great time for co-workers to mingle with each other outside the workplace, and to spend time with family. Thank you, CA Committee, for coordinating these fun holiday parties!
Santa, Mrs. Claus, elves, and others at the Lancaster Children’s Christmas Party.
The Green Initiative at High Concrete Group LLC: Focus On Practices
Last year, international consulting firm McKinsey and Company reinforced the importance of the construction industry in global carbon reduction strategies. Its report, “Pathways to a Low Carbon Economy,” placed buildings second only to power generation in opportunity for carbon reduction against a business as usual scenario that scientists believe will cause harmful climate change. The report calls for the substitution of Portland cement with slag, fly ash, and other materials on a larger scale than ever before.
require less foundation work, and are thermally efficient with typical R-values of R13 and higher. They need less concrete, and therefore less greenhouse gas-contributing Portland cement, than conventional precast. With Eco-Mix ®, they eliminate 50 percent of Portland cement and deliver the same or better performance.
Eco-Mix ® designs reduce carbon emissions by displacing 50 percent of Portland cement in precast.
In commercial building, the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) rating system of the US Green Building Council has set the standard for sustainable design. Driving industry practice, LEED measures and recognizes buildings for meeting ever more stringent requirements. HCGL has seven LEED Accredited Professionals on staff, and has been chosen as a partner in numerous LEED and sustainable design projects.
As a company committed to The High Philosophy’s tenet of contributing to a world of beauty and prosperity and peace, High Concrete Group LLC (HCGL) clearly has a contribution to make to carbon reduction.
HCGL’s Green Mission
HCGL is dedicated to making buildings that use less energy to construct and operate, are better for the health of the population and environment, and are economically feasible to build and maintain over time. Since cofounding AltusGroup, Inc. in 2002, and then introducing groundbreaking CarbonCast ® products, HCGL’s green practices have gained significant momentum.
Today, HCGL’s products are lighter in weight, take less energy to make, transport and erect,
HCGL’s LEED Silver certified maintenance building in Denver, Pennsylvania, has gained industry recognition for its design and energy efficiency. The Denver plant is one of three in the industry participating in a PCI-sponsored life cycle assessment to help quantify the sustainable attributes of precast.
Customers who embrace the carbon reduction message have a trustworthy partner in HCGL. By continuously improving sustainable products, processes, and practices, precast concrete will remain a building material of choice.
Download the report “Pathways to a Low Carbon Economy: Version 2 of the Global Greenhouse Gas Abatement Cost Curve” at www.mckinsey.com.
The High Foundation Awards Grants To Non-Profit Organizations
The High Foundation is a philantropic non-profit organization that was established in 1980 by members of the High Family. Its mission is to make a significant difference in the community’s quality of life by aligning with service organizations to support positive change within areas of identified need in the community.
To that end, the following organizations have recently benefited from the generosity of the High Family:
Community Homeless Outreach Center
Cornerstone Community Ministries
Diamond Street Early Childhood Center
Historic Preservation Trust
Lancaster Area Habitat for Humanity
Lancaster County Therapeutic Riding
Lancaser Mennonite School
Lancaster Partnership Program
Landis Homes
Manheim Township Public Library
United Disabilities Services
The High Foundation has been a vital resource to a variety of non-profit organizations and educational institutions throughout the communities in which we do business, and has remained focused on “contributing to a world of beauty and prosperity and peace.”
Co-Workers Are Rebels With A Paws O
n Sunday, October 11, 2009, the “Rebels with a Paws” participated in the 20th Annual Tailwagger’s Trot to benefit The Humane League of Lancaster County. Rebels are a team comprised of High co-workers, and their two- and four-legged family members.
The trot began at Clipper Stadium and was led by the Lancaster City Mounted Police, fire trucks, and dozens of motorcyclists. The walk concluded at Buchanan Park with music, food, vendors, dog agility demonstrations, and even a dog whisperer.
In their first year of participation, the Rebels placed third in fundraising with $915. This organization relies on financial support from the community in their mission to rescue abused or abandoned animals, provide pet adoption services, and to reunite people with lost pets.
The Rebels welcome new members for next year’s event. Whether or not you have a dog, you may join the cause by contacting any Rebel: Kelly Roeder (HAL) with Jake and Trevor; Laurie (HCL) and John Salzmann with Lucy; Lucinda (HAL) and Logan Santiago with Lexi; Jennifer (HAL) and Chase Soto with Rocky; and Jennifer and Olivia Vasko with Bailey.
Kelly Roeder with Jake and Trevor.
Laurie Salzmann with Lucy the Wonder Dog.
Widdowson Cooks From The Heart For A Good Cause
On Saturday, January 9, 2010, Bob Widdowson, Director of Information Services, joined other area businessmen for the first-ever “Men Cooking From The Heart” tasting event. More than 200 supporters convened at Liberty Place Theatre and Conference Center, Lancaster, Pennsylvania, for this fundraising event to benefit Big Brothers Big Sisters of Lancaster County.
Chef Bob prepared pork ribs using his special recipe. Together, these 30 chefs raised $20,000 for mentoring services provided through Big Brothers Big Sisters.
Thank you, Bob, for contributing to the success of this fundraising event.
Lancaster City Park Project Earns Phoenix Award
Inner City Group, with the philanthropic support of the High ® companies, was the winner of the Community Impact Phoenix Award for its Roberto Clemente Park revitalization project in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. This prestigious award honors
Robin Stauffer (third from right) represented High at the Phoenix Award presentation ceremony.
individuals and groups who are working to solve the critical environmental issue of transforming abandoned industrial areas into productive new uses. Roberto Clemente Park, located on South Duke Street, was recognized for its innovative and creative techniques to revitalize blighted, contaminated lands to productive, new use.
In November 2009, Robin Stauffer, Corporate Secretary, joined members of the Inner City Group to receive the Phoenix Award at the United States Environmental Protection Agency’s National Brownfields Conference, held in New Orleans.
High has a long tradition of commitment to the community, aligning with other organizations to help address needs in the areas of education, health and human services, and arts and culture. The Inner City Group is a non-profit economic development corporation whose mission is to work in collaboration with other neighborhood-based organizations to develop a healthy and sustainable neighborhood economy, in a way that builds upon community development and social service initiatives already in place.
The successful partnering of High and The Inner City Group made possible the clearing and development of a condemned manufacturing site into a beautiful public park for families in the southern end of Lancaster City to enjoy.
United Way Campaign Finishes With Flying Colors!
The 2009 High ®
HIGH COMPANY-WIDE
2009 UNITED WAY CAMPAIGN RESULTS
United Way campaign began with the Day of Caring in early September. Eight co-workers joined forces with other area organizations to perform maintenance on young chestnut trees for the Lancaster County Conservancy. Like a tree, our corporate-wide United Way campaign grew as all High companies kicked off their own campaigns.
Along the way, some of the Campaign Committees sponsored special and unusual events to entice co-workers to increase giving. The High Company LLC committee held “The Great Tricycle Race.” Senior Management and others participated in races, riding very small children’s tricycles to the finish line. Coworkers were able to participate by sponsoring a racer, or paying to have a co-worker put into
Larry Brown, Bob Widdowson, and Greg High were just a few who participated in The Great Tricycle Race.
the race. Embarrassing? Maybe. Fun? You bet! After several races and heated competition, Greg High was declared the winner. Greg said of his victory, “A competitive streak suddenly appeared out of nowhere, and I couldn’t hold it back!” He also states that he is up to the challenge for next year, as well.
As the campaign came to an end, pledges totaled $247,957.00, with per capita giving of $261.59, and a total of 59 Leadership Givers!
To top it all off, Brian Simmons, High Company LLC, was randomly selected from all eligible entrants as one of the Lancaster County United Way grand prize winners! Brian was presented with his special prize in the Corporate Office lobby, surrounded by cheering co-workers.
Thank you to all coworkers who were able to contribute to the Campaign. In difficult economic times, your generosity is making a very positive impact in the communities in which we live and work.
Brian Simmons was one of three lucky winners of the Lancaster County United Way Prize Drawing.
During 2010, Greenfield Architects Ltd. (GAL), an affiliate of High Real Estate Group LLC, marks its 20-year anniversary. Established in 1990, GAL provides architecture, adaptive reuse, interior design, and planning services to customers in Pennsylvania, Maryland, New Jersey, Delaware, and surrounding states.
This talented group has grown to include registered Architects, Designers, Draftspersons, and Administrative Staff. Together, these ten coworkers work to provide customers with state-of-the-art designs that meet their needs and budgetary constraints.
Congratulations, Greenfield Architects Ltd. Here’s to 20 more great years!