Thank you for your help in producing this edition of High Spirit.
Kathy Abernethy
Rick Bennett
Tina Byler
Leah Connors
Steve Evans
Liz Ford
Mike Fruin
Ken Glidden
Lin Good
Randy Horning
Carolyne Jordan
Aidalis Lopez
Michelle McCann
Tina McGinnis
Dave Nicholas
Jane Owens
Stephanie Reese
Elaine Richard
Kelly Roeder
Laurèl Rolle
Laurie Salzmann
Robin Stauffer
Winter 2013
Tobacco Use Declines At High During 2012
Step By Step Intranet Site Launched
2012 High In The 70s Winners
Ready, Set, Take A Healthy Step!
HSSI Plant Three Maintenance Team Marks A Decade Of Working Safely
New TeeCurb System Lowers Costs And Improves Aesthetics In Parking Garages
CEO Goes OTR With HTL
HCC Holds An Open House At Its Elmira, New York Office
Mill Creek Square Continues To Attract Great Stores And Restaurants
Celebrating 50 Years: Greenfield Corporate Center
Cleveland Innerbelt Project Is Underway
Hotels Give Culture A High Five
HSSI Braves The Elements To Complete Work On The Batchellerville Bridge
HSSCL Pursues OSHA Certification
Santa And Others Spread Holiday Cheer At CAC’s Jingle Bell Breakfasts They Give Good Measure!
Sean P. Heymann, Grounds Route Leader, HAL, Lancaster, PA
Kathy L. Abernethy, Marketing Coordinator, HCC, Lancaster, PA
Kendrea S. Grove, Guest Services Representative, HHL, Lexington Park, MD
Jeremiah A. White, CNC Tech Operator, HSSI, Lancaster, PA
High Honors - High Awards Environmental Stewardship..........19
Denver Plant Adds Sustainable Upgrades
Sue Weniger High Spirit is published as a service to co-workers, retirees, and their families. Submissions, comments, and suggestions are welcome and should be submitted to:
Technology Upgrades Keep Hotel Guests In Hot Water Community Commitment............20 - 21
Greenfield Estates Drives Away Hunger
HHL Co-Workers Make Christmas Cozy For Kids
United Way 2012 Campaign
Once again, we are at that time of year when we reflect upon the things that happened during the previous year and we take a moment to highlight our achievements. While 2012 was another challenging year in many respects, it is always fitting to recognize the accomplishments that occurred within the High® companies and to lift up the successes that are worth celebrating.
Throughout 2012, The High Family Council, in conjunction with the Boards of Directors of High Industries Inc. and High Real Estate Group LLC, continued down a path of implementing a new governance structure. In addition to moving to a model mid-year that now includes a single Chief Executive Officer for all of High, this new structure features common members on both Boards and provides an opportunity for all members to have a “big picture view” of the Company as they plan and make decisions that are in the best interest of the entire organization. These changes were all part of The High Family Council’s 100-year vision and should help to position the Company for the future.
High Steel Structures Inc. (HSSI) had a number of projects throughout the year that required very large members, including several complex trusses that were made up of smaller members. Plant Three spent much of 2012 working on the Ohio Innerbelt project, which carries Interstate 90 around Cleveland. In Lancaster’s South Bay, the first shipment of a project going to western Pennsylvania was fabricated with 14-foot-high webs. Using the CNC drilling equipment, this major bridge was fabricated without the need for full assembly in the Yard, as were trusses for projects in the states of Indiana, Missouri, and Nebraska.
High Concrete Group LLC (HCGL) experienced major organizational changes in 2012. While it was a stressful year for all involved, we are especially grateful for the efforts that are underway by the leadership team and co-workers to return this Company to profitability. A large part of the focus in recent months has been to train and develop the men and women who have joined HCGL, as we want co-workers to be in the positions where they are most suited, resulting in reduced turnover and improved efficiencies. SAP has also been re-implemented in order to more closely monitor and manage operations, and planning is underway to address opportunities that exist to improve the physical plant.
Another important change in 2012 was the merging of the Field Operations teams at HSSI and HCGL. This new department will now be able to combine resources and talent to complete bridge and building erection projects with greater economies of scale.
Two new double-drop steerable trailers were utilized for a full year by High Transit LLC (HTL), which was absolutely necessary in order to move some of the largest girders ever produced at HSSI. When not moving girders, HTL has been successful in marketing services to a variety of other companies, providing an influx of new business opportunities.
High Steel Service Center LLC (HSSCL) successfully completed the installation, testing, and acceptance of a new state-of-the-art Red Bud Industries Stretcher Leveler in 2012, making it the only service center in our geographic footprint with this unique competitive advantage and cost-driven solution. This investment moves HSSCL up the value chain and positions us for significant growth, differentiating HSSCL from other service centers. In addition, HSSCL completed the required work to submit an application in the first quarter of 2013 for OSHA’s VPP Merit Certification, based on our commitment to safety.
High Safety Consulting Services Ltd. (HSCSL) prepared for a name change to High Environmental Health and Safety Consulting Ltd. to better reflect the services it provides. At the end of the year, the group relocated from the Corporate Office to a facility in the Greenfield Corporate Center equipped with a dedicated experiential training center that will provide participants with a handson, interactive learning environment.
High Associates Ltd. (HAL) continued to move forward on a number of projects in 2012, including the stabilization of the Mill Creek Square retail project in East Lampeter Township, which is now 91 percent leased and committed, and the build-to-suit-to-lease project for The Gilbertson Group in Highlands Corporate Center, which was also completed on time and on budget. The Residential Team was successful in achieving portfolio occupancy of 96 percent in 2012, revenue growth of 7.4 percent, and net operating income growth of 10.7 percent. During 2012, the 50-unit expansion of Bentley Ridge Apartments was completed and, along with Greenfield Estates, was recognized with several Central Pennsylvania Apartment Association awards for excellence.
High Construction Company (HCC) and Greenfield Architects Ltd. (GAL) continued to expand their geographic footprint into the northern tier of Pennsylvania, with HCC opening an office in Elmira, New York, in addition to its presence in Williamsport. GAL completed the design of a hotel project in Wellsboro, Pennsylvania, which opened last summer, and HCC is wrapping up work for its first major client in the area, Chesapeake Energy, who awarded HCC more than $40 million in contracts to build several office and industrial buildings on its 100-acre campus in Athens, Pennsylvania. Closer to Lancaster, projects in 2012 included Messiah College, Lebanon Valley College, Turkey Hill Dairy, Hershey Entertainment and Resorts, and many more.
High Hotels Ltd. (HHL) had strong year-over-year improvement and exceeded plan both in terms of revenue and profitability. Co-worker satisfaction scores were strong, despite the economic head-winds, as were guest satisfaction scores across the portfolio. A Hampton Inn in Lexington Park, Maryland, was added in late 2011, and a new TownPlace Suites project in Rossmoyne Business Center was proposed for development.
The Marriott at Penn Square achieved overall satisfaction scores in 2012 that placed them in the top 13 percent for the year within the Marriott chain, or 42 out of 346. The hotel was also the highest ranked full-service Marriott of those managed by Interstate Hotels and Resorts.
Co-workers in the Shared Resource Units provided support for many activities throughout the year, as well. Information Services spent much of 2012 working with HAL to improve budgeting and forecasting processing. This included implementation of ARGUS SoftwareTM , an application for budgeting, along with the development of a data warehouse to produce reports supporting the Strategic Asset Plan. Several initiatives also occurred in support of HSSCL, including the creation of data warehouse reports, and partnering with management on several process improvement opportunities. The Cloud Initiative, which began in 2011, continued throughout the year with training on additional functionality available in Google, as well as moving the Kronos application to the Cloud.
The Accounting Services team spent a significant amount of time and effort converting payroll tax filing to ADP ®, resulting in the reduction of the amount of time spent on account reconciliation and filing, and on reconciling tax returns. Efforts also continued with HCGL to improve processes and controls, and with HSSCL to assist in pricing and costing of the new Stretcher Leveler, as well as efforts to reduce working capital in all of the business units.
A number of changes occurred in 2012 within the Treasury Department. Migration of the HREGL cash management accounts from Wells Fargo to Bank of America occurred, as did the migration of our surety bond provider from Chubb to Zurich. With the change to Bank of America, the lock box that had been processing rent payments was closed, and a new post office box was opened for commercial and industrial rent payments. Remote deposit capture for the residential properties was also rolled out which, in addition to eliminating mistakes and speeding fund availability, eliminates the need for trips to the bank to make deposits.
New fourth generation High Family Trusts were implemented in 2012 by the Tax Department, completing a framework to enable High Family ownership of High companies for years to come. Tax compliance took us further west than
Nevin Cooley, Chief Executive Officer for High, set an example to encourage co-workers to ‘know their numbers’ during the HMP’s 2012 High In The 70s Biometric Screening.
ever before, as HSSI was awarded a job in Nebraska. The month of December was spent anxiously awaiting the “fiscal cliff” legislation, which was finally received on January 2, 2013.
In an effort to continue to both reduce health insurance costs and improve co-worker health, Human Resource Services was instrumental in launching a new Health Management Program with Cooper Corporate Solutions in 2011, and a great deal of progress has occurred. Tobacco cessation programs are now helping co-workers kick the habit and, as a result, we saw a 30 percent decrease in the use of tobacco in 2012. Co-workers’ participation in the 2012 Biometric Screening exceeded our goal of 70 percent, reaching a total participation rate of 78.8 percent, and more than 30 percent of eligible co-workers participated in the Quarterly Health Challenges.
The Co-worker Activities Committee (CAC) held another full year of creative and interesting events, with participation at an all-time high. Events included a bus trip to New York City, movie night, photo contests, the High Cup golf tournament, and the Jingle Bell Breakfasts. In response to feedback received from the Co-worker Satisfaction Survey, the HIGHLites communication tool was expanded in 2012 to include computer screen savers as another means of keeping co-workers informed across the organization.
ECO-related events and communication continued throughout the year, including a very successful Earth Day celebration and the Adopt-A-Highway Program. New in 2012 was the opportunity for co-workers to sign up to plant and tend garden plots in what is known as the Zook-Esh Tract. Gardners then shared their over-abundance of crops with fellow co-workers through a FreeShare Market, located in the Corporate Office lunchroom. The Driveto-Zero Safety Program also made great strides in reducing the number of incidents and days-away cases throughout all of our business units.
A marigold grown in a co-worker’s garden plot.
High co-workers not only work hard, they give back to their communities. In 2012, co-workers pledged in excess of $213,000 to the annual United Way Campaign, and they 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.
As we look to the year before us, we continue to face challenges in some of our operating units; however, there are also many new opportunities to make things happen. I know that I can count on all of you to persevere and give your best effort toward building High into an even stronger, more viable, family of companies. On behalf of the High Family, we extend our thanks for your contribution and commitment in the coming year!
Tobacco use is the leading cause of preventable death, disease, disability, and loss of productivity in the United States. But here is the good news: There is a lot less tobacco being used by High® co-workers.
By the end of 2012, 88 co-workers had quit tobacco, raising the percentage of non-tobacco users to 77. Sixteen percent are users by admission, and six percent did not complete the Tobacco Affidavit and are designated as users by default.
Tobacco use is associated with a number of different types of cancers, including esophageal, cervical, stomach, kidney, pancreatic, making this downward trend especially meaningful. On top of that, tobacco is the number one treatable cause of cardiovascular disease, which is the leading cause of death in America.
If you are struggling to kick the habit, see your site’s Human Resource representative to find tobacco cessation programs and support to help you quit, and stay quit.
To all High ® co-workers with intranet access: Take a moment to visit High Home and click on the new Step By Step tab in the top navigation. It opens up an all-new site that provides guidance, tools, and information to help you reach and keep your Health Risk Assessment goals.
Features of the new site:
Latest News –announcements keeping you up-to-date with High Health Management Program activities.
How-To Videos – short features from Cooper Consulting Partners focusing on need-toknow topics with practical advice.
Healthy Recipes –nutritious food that is easy to prepare and tastes great.
The site also features newsletters, challenges, program forms, calculators, links, news from around the web, and other resources. Take control of your health and visit the Step By Step tab in High Home today.
High® co-workers who participated in the 2012 Biometric Screening, Health Risk Assessment, and Tobacco Affidavit were entered into a random drawing to win health-oriented prizes. Congratulations to these winners!
Exercise Equipment or a One-Year Gym Membership (valued up to $500)
Emily Blackwell, HSSI
Angie Little, HHL
Earl Brown, HHL
Pat Donley, HSSCL
Greg Fisher, HSSI
David Green, HCGL
Craig Huber, HTL
If your numbers did not fall within these parameters, you may want to take a healthy step to improve your risk factors.
Wayne Johnson, HCGL
Dave Schneider, HCGL
Keith Soldo, HSSCL
Eric Staley, HSSI
Adam Steppe, HSSI
The 2012 Biometric Screening allowed our partner, Cooper Consulting Partners, to develop a health profile of the High ® companies. The data shows how we, as a population, compare to healthy benchmarks. If your personal screening results indicated you had work to do, you are not alone. Overall, coworkers can improve substantially in each of the six risk factors measured.
This Fall, you will need to meet or show improvement in four of the six metrics in order to qualify for the preferred health care contribution rate in 2014. The good news is that there is time! Here are some suggestions to help you meet those goals:
Participate in the quarterly Health Challenge. By completing the Challenge you will learn healthy behaviors and receive $75!
Prepare recipes from the Simple Steps newsletter, some of which are lighter versions of foods you already enjoy.
KEY INDICATORS: RISK FACTOR
Waist Circumference
Low HDL (Healthy) Cholesterol
LDL Colesterol
Triglycerides
Glucose
Blood Pressure
Share your Biometric Screening results with your personal physician, who can provide you with more information and ideas to improve the numbers. Take steps now to improve your risk factors before the 2013 Biometric Screening.
Source: Cooper Consulting Partners. Please note that Cooper keeps all personal information confidential; no one at High sees individual co-worker results.
Maintenance Department co-workers at High Steel Structures Inc.’s (HSSI) Plant Three, located in Williamsport, Pennsylvania, marked a very special milestone. In October, they celebrated ten accident-free years! This could not have been accomplished without the full cooperation and commitment of these co-workers to make safety on the job their highest priority, and they are to be commended for achieving this outstanding record.
Supervisor Jim Grieco attributes the team’s safety culture as the key to its success, stating, “During the past ten years, co-workers have come and gone, and equipment and technology have changed, but safety principals and practices are at the forefront of everything we do. Whether it is a new or a long-term co-worker, we look out for each other. I am proud of my team’s commitment to safety each and every day.”
High Concrete Group LLC has introduced the TeeCurb TM System Storm Water Deflector to help ensure positive drainage in parking structures. A continuously sealed, economical, surfaceapplied channel, TeeCurb System guides storm water toward drains and away from double tee ends. The simple, aesthetically pleasing, allaluminum design provides a lightweight, yet structurally secure, alternative to precast concrete curbs or washes. TeeCurb System installation is engineered to maintain tight closure and includes a z-profile litewall closure to meet code requirements. Easily installed on-site with standard tools, the innovation reduces costs in the plant and in the field, while improving garage interior finishes.
Most company executives spend their working hours behind a desk and around the board room table; but that is not the case with Nevin Cooley, Chief Executive Officer of High®. Because of his past leadership role with High Real Estate Group LLC, Nevin knew his way around those strategic business units (SBUs), but had less hands-on experience with High Industries Inc. (HII). So, to gain a better understanding of one of HII’s SBUs, Nevin took to the road with High Transit LLC’s Over-the-Road Driver, David P. Madonna, a co-worker with more than 34 years of service.
Their journey began early on a Fall morning in Lancaster, with Dave behind the wheel and Nevin riding shotgun. The destination was Monticello, New York, where they were to deliver a High Steel Structures Inc. girder for a bridge over the Sink River on State Road 17.
During the 12-hour, 360-mile trip, they had plenty of time to discuss the challenges drivers face with each haul. Following the trip, Nevin sent a letter to Dave, writing, “From early mornings of preparing your truck for the day, to the late evenings arriving home when the day is done, I understand just how much dedication you and your colleagues show. I was reminded of the tremendous regard you have for safety as you work so seamlessly with your Escort Drivers in reaching the final staging lot.”
Nevin gained a first-hand understanding for the process of moving steel from the plant to the jobsite, and an appreciation for the many coworkers who work behind the scenes to make these deliveries happen.
On the evening of Wednesday, October 24, 2012, High Construction Company (HCC) hosted an Open House celebration at its Elmira, New York office. This event also marked the launch of several projects in the region and was attended by more than 90 guests representing businesses and local constituents in the Twin Tiers of southern New York and northern Pennsylvania.
This new office, along with its previouslyestablished office in Williamsport, Pennsylvania, enhances HCC’s presence in the Twin Tiers, and has already resulted in several new projects for both HCC and Greenfield Architects Ltd.
Mill Creek Square shopping center has continued to attract exciting new retailers since its opening in 2010. Recently, it welcomed three new businesses and is poised for the opening of three more.
Tran Nailery & Spa opened a 1,672 square-foot store in November 2012. Kiwi Yogurt opened its 1,633 shop in January 2013, and March 2013 marked the opening of the 1,955 square-foot store and restaurant for Honeybaked Ham and Café.
Veritas Christian Bookstore is scheduled for a Spring opening, and will occupy a 3,321 square foot store. Noodles is under construction, and is projected to open in late Spring. This 2,740 square-foot facility was designed by Greenfield Architects Ltd. The site and shell building is a project of High Associates Ltd.’s (HAL) Construction Services Group, and leasing was by HAL’s Brokerage Services. In addition, Indulge Fashion Accessories recently signed a lease and is anticipated to open a 1,534 square-foot store in late Spring or early Summer.
This sign marks the entrance to High Construction Company’s Elmira, New York office.
Noodles, a Denver, Colorado-based casual fare restaurant, is being built near the entrance to Mill Creek Square.
These six new retailers will bring Phase I occupancy to 99 percent. Overall, with Phase II, the shopping center is 92 percent leased.
Seeing Greenfield Corporate Center today, it may be difficult to imagine it as it was 50 years ago; but look closely, and you will find evidence of its Lancaster County farm roots. Before High Realty Company, predecessor to High Properties, was formed and broke ground on its first building in 1963, the land on which the Corporate Center is situated was covered in fields, barns, and meadows.
Linford Good, Senior Vice President of Sales and Leasing for High Associates Ltd. (HAL), shared his memories of the Company and the Corporate Center, beginning 37 years ago when he joined High Realty Corporation, the entity that was then the brokerage company. In 1978, there were only five buildings in the Corporate Center (excluding Greenfield Corporate Center West). High Realty’s office was located in the circa 1848 brick farmhouse at 1837 William Penn Way, and the Landis family occupied the adjacent preRevolutionary War stone farmhouse. The surrounding area was, for the most part, a working farm, with a barn and other outbuildings, and cows grazing in the meadow. As Lin recalls, from the High Realty office windows, you could see the Landis family eating dinner together in their home late in the afternoon. Eventually, when the family moved, High Realty renovated and relocated to the stone farmhouse.
Greenfield Corporate
In the beginning, street access was limited; infrastructure was added as needed to accommodate businesses. Lin remembers showing a property in the late 1970s, chauffeuring clients through a hay field to the proposed site in his new car, cringing with every bump. The outcome was worth the risk as the client, Johnson and Johnson, continues to occupy – and now owns – the building constructed on that site.
High Realty Company was later renamed High Properties, and is the entity that owns the real estate assets in Greenfield Corporate Center. In 1980, High Associates Ltd., was formed for the purpose of selling, leasing, and managing commercial, industrial, and residential real estate, services it continues to provide for Greenfield Corporate Center, as well as for third-party property owners. Following several moves within the Corporate Center, HAL settled at its current location in the High Corporate Office at 1853 William Penn Way, in 1988.
Greenfield Corporate Center has easy accessibility to highways, and includes hotels, apartments, restaurants, a day care facility, and a Post Office and Federal Express station. Abundant parking, energy efficient buildings, and flexible office, manufacturing, and warehouse space are features that attract businesses. The immaculately maintained grounds include ponds, walking trails, exercise stations, playground equipment, gazebos, statues, and The Calvin G. High Pavilion, making it a great place for those employed in the Corporate Center and the public to enjoy throughout the year.
High Steel Structures Inc. (HSSI) was awarded a contract by Walsh Construction and its partner, Amelie Construction and Supply LLC, to provide structural steel for the I-90 Westbound project in Ohio. Known as the Cleveland Innerbelt Project, this job requires more than 400 girders and over 200 stringers, with a total weight in excess of 19,000 tons, for the construction of the main viaduct Units 2 and 3, plus Ramp A5. HSSI is also supplying more than 100 girders, totaling nearly 3,000 tons, for the construction of Unit 1 of the viaduct, along with two other smaller bridges.
Unit 2 of the viaduct consists of eight piers with delta-leg girders. These large delta assemblies are being fabricated at HSSI’s Plant Three facility in Williamsport, Pennsylvania. After the individual girders are fabricated, they are placed into assemblies in the Yard where overall dimensions are checked and recorded prior to reaming of the field splice connections. These girders have flanges up to four feet wide and three inches thick. High Transit LLC is in the process of delivering these massive pieces – some of which weigh more than 125,000 pounds – to the Cleveland job site.
The 50 year-old bridge currently in use was marked for replacement in 2008 by the Ohio Department of Transportation. During construction, it will be kept in service. Once the new westbound bridge is completed in late 2013, east- and westbound traffic will be routed onto the new bridge and construction will begin on a new eastbound bridge.
For more information, please see: www.innerbelt.org
In an industry where the guest is king (or queen), a culture built around customer satisfaction is critical to any company’s success. Since its inception in 1988 and the opening of its first hotel in 1989, High Hotels Ltd. (HHL) has been known for outstanding customer service and award-winning ways. As the Company prepares to mark its 25th anniversary, the management team decided to embark on a mission to refresh and redefine HHL’s dynamic and evolving culture, and to re-ignite the core principles that have been critical to its success.
The result has been a collaborative effort between co-workers, with varying roles throughout the organization, forming what has become known as “The Culture Club.” Comprised of long-term, newer, and former co-workers, the team was tasked with interpreting HHL’s culture today, and offering their ideas, experiences, and opinions on what has made the Company unique. The team devised a unique set of values known as the five pillars - Family, Fun, Innovation, Trust, and Teamwork –that will guide the way HHL does business.
Committee Leaders Laurèl Rolle, Jim McCary, and Kathy Galbraith designed a fun, interactive Culture Road Show. The show features a professional video and entertaining group exercises that communicate the core value message, allowing hotel team members to role play the skills that have produced overwhelmingly positive customer feedback. The five pillars are emphasized throughout the program and are reinforced with treats and spontaneous ‘high fives’ for audience participation.
Terri Hagens, Carmen Cordero, Jeremiah Whistler, facilitator Kathy Galbraith, Felipe Fernandez, and Bill Stewart participate in a group exercise.
“The special way in which the Company cares for co-workers and customers was clear from my very first meeting with the organization,” said Mike Fruin, HHL’s President and Chief Operating Officer. “That is why it has been a particularly rewarding experience for me to be part of this revitalization of the culture that has played a key role in the Company’s long-term success. This fresh definition of the core values has reinvigorated the unique spirit that High Hotels was founded on, and that others have admired.”
Keeping the HHL culture alive will be an ongoing effort for the Culture Committee, along with Culture Ambassadors who have been appointed for each hotel. Daily team huddles reinforce the culture, but it is best seen in the actions of coworkers who make a unique and positive impression on every guest, every day simply because they enjoy serving others.
High Steel Structures Inc. (HSSI) has completed its work for the Batchellerville Bridge. Located on Route 98, it spans the Great Sacandaga Lake at its midpoint in the town of Edinburg in Saratoga County, New York, and replaces a structurally deficient bridge that was built in 1930.
The project was awarded to contractor Harrison & Burrowes Bridge Constructors, Inc. As a subcontractor, HSSI fabricated 3,698 tons of steel for this 3,000-plus-foot-long structure. Working with Harrison & Burrowes, HSSI co-workers began the task of erecting 92 girders, ranging in length from 112 to 156 feet, using crawler cranes on barges. The approaches required 80 straight girders, which were eight feet in depth. For the main span, they used 12 haunched girders that were 10 feet deep. Bob Urban served as Manager of Field Operations, Phil Armstrong was Field Operations Superintendent, and Paul Lipinsky was Project Manager.
Girders are lifted into place by crawler cranes on barges.
Wintry lake winds affected HSSI’s work on this project. “We could not erect steel when the wind speed was greater than 25 miles per hour, which happened frequently. We also had to deal with the water levels on the lake, which were sometimes too high or too low,” said Paul Lipinsky. “These levels had an impact on the barges and dictated when we could start and complete the job.” HSSI’s work began in September 2011, and was halted by weather in December. Work resumed in March 2012, and was completed in April 2012. The entire project is scheduled for completion in 2013.
The new steel haunched girder bridge is located adjacent to the existing bridge on the south side. It has a 42-foot center span navigational vertical clearance, allowing more height clearance for sail boats and other vessels to pass underneath, and carries two 11-foot traffic lanes with fivefoot shoulders, and a five-and-a-half-foot raised sidewalk on its north side.
Greg Ball, project manager at Harrison & Burrowes, indicated the project proceeded smoothly and on schedule thanks to close communication with HSSI. “High Steel Structures is a very professional outfit that is great to work with. Fabrication and erection of the steel was right on track. As always, it was a pleasure to work with High Steel.”
Barges were used to transport girders to the worksite.
High Steel Service Center LLC (HSSCL) recently submitted an application for OSHA Voluntary Protection Programs (VPP) Merit Certification. The VPP promotes effective worksite-based safety and health, and establishes cooperative relationships between OSHA and workplaces that have implemented comprehensive safety and health management systems.
The VPP sets performance-based criteria for a managed safety and health system, which falls under four major elements:
Management Leadership and Employee Involvement
Worksite Analysis
Hazard Prevention and Control
Safety and Health Training Companies submit an application with supporting documents, and OSHA assesses applicants against the criteria. This assessment includes an application review and rigorous on-site evaluation by a team of OSHA safety and health experts. OSHA approves qualified sites to one of three programs:
Star: Recognition for employers and employees who demonstrate exemplary achievement in the prevention and control of occupational safety and health hazards and in the development, implementation, and continuous improvement of their safety and health management system.
Merit: Recognition for employers and employees who have developed and implemented good safety and health management systems. Additional steps must be taken to reach Star quality.
Demonstration: Recognition for employers and employees who operate effective safety and health management systems that differ from current VPP requirements. This program enables OSHA to test the efficacy of different approaches.
The statistical evidence for VPP’s success in improving worker safety and health is impressive. The average VPP worksite has a Days Away Restricted and Transferred (DART) case rate of 52 percent below the average for its industry. These sites typically do not start out with such low rates. Reductions in injuries and illnesses begin when the site commits to the VPP approach to safety and health management and the challenging VPP application process.
Merit is a temporary status given with the expectation that, after several years, DART rates would trend downward and fall below the industry rates. A Merit to Star team evaluation is necessary to confirm Star approval, verifying the lower rates and that the HSSCL is continuing to meet the VPP requirements.
HSSCL retiree Ron Koring, and co-workers Randy Horning and Jim Walters, along with Jeff Fisher and Fritz Shaak of High’s Environmental Health and Safety Department, provided leadership and inspired teamwork between the Safety Committee and co-workers, ensuring that safety is our number one priority each and every day.
Even though the Christmas season is a busy time for Old Saint Nick, he always makes time to attend the High® Co-worker Activities Committee’s (CAC) Jingle Bell Breakfasts. Held in the Lancaster and Williamsport areas, co-workers and their family members took a break from the hustle and bustle of the season to relax and enjoy a delicious breakfast.
The Lancaster event was held on Saturday, December 1, 2012, at Yoder’s Restaurant in New Holland, Pennsylvania, with more than 600 people in attendance. Children visited with Santa and Mrs. Claus, and were treated to balloon creations. They also enjoyed interacting and taking photos with a snowman, bunny, and reindeer.
In Williamsport, approximately 80 attendees convened at Haywood’s On The Water, on Saturday, December 8, 2012. They enjoyed balloons, and visited with Frosty the Snowman and Santa. Which items were favorites on the children’s Christmas Lists? Santa reported to Sue Weniger, Human Resources Manager, that electronics topped their lists; however, some old favorites, like dolls and Legos, also made the cut.
These annual Jingle Bell Breakfasts are a great time for friends and families to visit with each other. And seeing how much the children have grown from year-to-year is a reminder of just how fast time flies!
Nominator: Charissa E. Merrill
Sean Heymann is a co-worker who leads by example. While working with his Grounds Maintenance Team at a business center west of Lancaster, they found a check made payable to a Lancaster County nursing agency, which was located several miles away. Sean contacted the business, and spoke with the company’s president about the check. When she offered to pick up the check, Sean insisted that he would deliver it to her place of business.
This gesture, while taking Sean only a few miles out of his way, demonstrates respect for the dignity of the check writer, and concern for an area business. The agency’s president stated, “The return of this check was very important to my patient’s privacy and identity protection. It is refreshing to see that honesty is alive and well!”
A two-time Good Measure Award recipient, Sean received his first award in 2008. His actions clearly demonstrate a commitment to The High Philosophy that extends beyond Company boundaries into the surrounding community.
Lancaster, Pennsylvania
Kathy L. Abernethy, Marketing Coordinator
Kathy Abernethy is a miracle worker – at least when it comes to a great fundraising event. For the past five years, she has been a key leader in the Annual High Construction Charity Golf Invitational to benefit Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals and Penn State Hershey Children’s Hospital.
As one invitational wraps up, preparation for the next event begins. Kathy and her co-chairs, Deron Henise and Dan Dennis, strategize, budget, fundraise, develop collateral, and seek and coordinate volunteers who provide support throughout the year. The day of the event entails oversight of those volunteers and handling all the last-minute details to ensure the 128 golfers who attend have a great day.
Kathy’s talents in graphic design and marketing make her an especially valuable asset to the team. She contributes countless onand off-the-clock hours that have helped make it possible for High Construction Company, in the Invitational’s last five years, to raise over $130,000. Her hard work and dedication are helping to contribute to a world of beauty and prosperity and peace for the children in our community who are in need of medical care.
Hampton Inn-Lexington Park, Maryland
Kee Kee Grove is a co-worker who takes customer service to a whole new level. When she observed a guest in the hotel lobby who appeared to be in distress, she went to investigate. The guest told her he felt dizzy, and then collapsed and began coughing up blood. Without skipping a beat, Kee Kee helped him to a chair, made sure he was comfortable, and called for an ambulance. The guest was rushed to the hospital, treated, and released later that day.
Kee Kee’s quick thinking and calm under pressure made this guest’s experience one he will never forget. In fact, he expressed his appreciation, calling Kee Kee a “lifesaver,” and asking that she be recognized for a job well done.
Through observation and quick action, Kee Kee has built trustworthy relationships by valuing customers and meeting their needs – and exceeding their expectations!
In addition to this Good Measure Award, Kee Kee was a 2012 recipient of the prestigious Hampton Spirit of Pride Award. This award recognizes outstanding service and, among many other attributes, the ability to build relationships with guests.
Lancaster, Pennsylvania
Nominators: Jeff J. Davis and Luke S. Mowrer, with input from Douglas D. Shiffler
Jeremiah White can be counted on to ensure the Ficep drill is operating properly – at any time of the day or night! Jeremiah has taken ownership of the Ficep by helping with its initial set-up and with development of standard work procedures. He has trained seven operators and provided them with his home telephone number so he can answer questions 24-7, enabling them to work almost error-free.
During a major breakdown of the drill, Jeremiah dedicated more than a week of his time to work with the Maintenance Department and Ficep representatives to facilitate the repair. During the repair process, a backlog grew, pushing North Bay over capacity on the drill. For four months, Jeremiah and several of the trainees worked 12 hours nearly every Sunday to clear up the backlog and keep jobs running on schedule.
In addition, Jeremiah is the resident expert on the MG Burner, readily offering his expertise to assist other operators. One nominator stated, “Jeremiah does all of this while maintaining an outstanding attitude and demeanor.” That, along with a strong work ethic and “right the first time” attitude, earned Jeremiah the Good Measure Award.
Gregory C. Cassel, High Associates Ltd.
. . .earned the Certified Commercial Investment Member (CCIM) designation from the CCIM Institute. Greg joined HAL in 2005, and serves as Commercial Asset Manager.
Jennifer M. Castellucci, High Associates Ltd.
. . .earned the National Apartment Leasing Professional (NALP) designation from the Apartment Association of Greater Philadelphia. Jennifer joined HAL in 2010, and serves as a Marketing Representative for Orchard Ridge Apartments in Pottstown, Pennsylvania.
Carolyne M. Jordan, High Hotels Ltd.
. . .earned a Masters degree in Business Administration – Community Service and Economic Leadership from Alvernia University in December 2012. Carolyne joined HHL in 2001, and serves as its Corporate Revenue Manager.
Bentley Ridge, Lancaster, Pennsylvania
. . .earned first place for Maintenance Excellence, and was named a Star Performer for Curb Appeal Excellence by The Apartment Association of Central Pennsylvania during its Best of Living Awards Gala.
Greenfield Estates, Lancaster, Pennsylvania
. . .earned first place for Curb Appeal from The Apartment Association of Central Pennsylvania during its Best of Living Awards Gala.
High Associates Ltd. , Lancaster, Pennsylvania
. . .was named Accredited Management Organization (AMO) of the Year. Presented by Institute of Real Estate Management (IREM), AMO is the highest honor in property management and is based on the high level of performance, experience, and financial stability among real estate management firms throughout eastern Pennsylvania and Delaware. HAL was selected from 19 management organizations from IREM Delaware Valley Chapter Three, and is Southcentral Pennsylvania’s first recipient of the coveted AMO.
High Construction Company, Lancaster, Pennsylvania
. . .is the recipient of a 2012 National Construction Best Practices Award. Presented by the American Subcontractors Association (ASA), the award will be formally presented at a ceremony in Las Vegas, Nevada. HCC is one of only five construction contractors nationwide to be honored with this award.
Allison E. Weaver, High Associates Ltd.
. . .was named Rookie of the Year by The Apartment Association of Central Pennsylvania, at its Best of Living Awards Gala. The award recognizes an outstanding individual who has served in the multi-housing industry for one year or less. Allison joined HAL in 2011, and serves as a Marketing Representative for Bentley Ridge, Lancaster, Pennsylvania.
In 2008, High Concrete Group LLC’s (HCGL) Denver, Pennsylvania, Maintenance Facility became High’s first LEED building, earning a Silver Certification. It was also recognized in the 2009 GreenSite Awards. In 2012, the plant burnished its sustainability credentials with sustainable upgrades throughout the campus:
Programmable thermostats were installed in the West Production Building, reducing energy use by lowering heat requirements during periods of low activity.
The building’s compressed air systems were combined with those of the Sandblast Building, increasing overall system efficiency, allowing the decommissioning of one of the large air compressors, and saving on electrical consumption.
The Denver team was able to re-allocate space within the East production building to accommodate the forms used for making concrete girders, which had been located outdoors. Moving the forms to the indoor heated space has allowed the plant to discontinue use of supplemental steam, reducing energy use and overall greenhouse gas emissions.
Recently, at High Hotels Ltd.’s (HHL) Hampton Inn-York, Pennsylvania, hard water had disabled one of three gas-fired tank-and-burner hot water units and threatened the other two. Replacement was going to be costly, especially for equipment that operated at only about 80 percent efficiency, and posed potential down-time issues that jeopardized guest comfort and satisfaction.
Working together with High Construction Energy
Solutions, HHL took a new approach and invested in five wall-mounted instantaneous on-demand water heaters and a new hot water storage tank. At 95 percent efficiency, the new system saves energy costs and improves up-time, assuring guests a steady hot water supply. Notably, the new system cost only 60 percent of a straight replacement, and heating units can be replaced individually at about a fifth the cost of the previously-used all-in-one system.
On-demand water heaters are now HHL’s standard, providing hot water at Courtyard by Marriott-Middletown, New York, and Hampton Inn-HarrisburgWest and York, Hilton Garden Inn-Wilkes Barre, and Courtyard by MarriottLancaster, Pennsylvania.
In November 2012, the Greenfield Estates Apartment Community held its annual food drive. Greenfield Estates coworkers spread word of the event by distributing door flyers. Residents left food items on their doorsteps on the designated day, which were collected and donated to Lancaster, Pennsylvania’s only year-round emergency shelter.
“This event shows the generosity of our residents and the Greenfield Estates team,” said Leah Connors, Community Manager, “These 46 bags of groceries made a positive impact on the people in our community who rely on this organization for food and shelter. It is a great feeling to be able to help in this way!”
In December 2012, High Hotels Ltd. (HHL) co-workers made and delivered 100 fleece blankets for patients of the Penn State Hershey Children’s Hospital in Hershey, Pennsylvania. The blankets were placed under the Christmas tree to be hand-selected by young hospital patients.
Just as HHL co-workers provide hospitality to make each guest’s stay as pleasant as possible, the blankets they crafted were intended to make children’s hospital stays a bit more comfortable. “We look for community service projects that align well with our values, and this project is a good fit because it is so meaningful for our team,” said HHL’s President and Chief Operating Officer, Mike Fruin. “Each blanket goes to a patient and stays with that patient when he or she goes home. The blankets have tags that read, ‘Made with love by High Hotels,’ and they really are.”
Every year, Penn State Hershey Children’s Hospital at Penn State Hershey Medical Center, a Level 1 pediatric trauma center, provides care to thousands of children and their families, offering more than 20 specialty pediatric patient services in Hershey, and numerous specialty services at more than 30 outpatient clinic locations throughout Pennsylvania.
Once again, High® co-workers and retirees gave generously in support of the 2012 United Way Campaign. These contributions allow the agencies United Way supports to provide services that help those in need in the communities in which we live and work.
The success of the Campaign can be attributed to the commitment of co-workers throughout the Company. At High Concrete Group LLC in Denver, Pennsylvania, coworkers held a Kick-Off Day event with a dunk tank and food to purchase, in addition to regular group meetings. This event generated $600 and, when added to coworkers’ pledges, helped to increase giving at HCGL by 58 percent from last year.
Other SBUs that increased giving in
2012 were High Hotels Ltd. and High Transit LLC. Retirees also had a modest increase in giving, which is no small feat in these tough economic times! Company-wide, contributions totaled $213, 413.
Fresh out of HCGL’s dunk tank, Joel FrutosCortes prepares for a little payback.
High Company LLC..................
High Concrete Group LLC...............
High Hotels Ltd....................
High Real Estate Group LLC..............
High Environmental Health and Safety Consulting Ltd..
High Steel Service Center LLC.............
High Steel Structures Inc................
High Transit LLC...................
High Retirees and Others...............
Thank you, High co-workers and retirees – and a special thanks to our Campaign Coordinator, Michelle McCann (HSSI) – for contributing to a world of beauty and prosperity and peace.
