Thank you for your help in producing this edition of High Spirit.
Sandy Alvarado
Rick Bennett
Steve Brown
Steve Bussanmas
Jennifer Castellucci
Karen Edwards
Liz Ford
Mike Fruin
Greg High
Steve High
Stephanie Holden
Carolyne Jordan
Brian LaBorde
Michelle McCann
Tina McGinnis
Dave Nicholas
Stephanie Reese
Elaine Richard
Barb Rutt
Laurie Salzmann
Fritz Shaak
Jenni Simmons
Robin Stauffer
Kelly Tetkoskie
Beverly Vorhees
Tom Wandzilak
Cathy Williams
Dan Wojciechowski
Derry Young
Earn The Preferred Health Care Contribution Rate For 2014
Quality Products Enable HSSCL To Exceed Customer Expectations
Comfortable Rooms And Lollipops, Too: HHL’s Ewing Hotel Has It All!
National Walking Day Held At Greenfield Corporate Center
HAL Builds A Lasting Relationship
President Profile: Brian LaBorde, HSSI
New Brunswick Wellness Plaza: Not A Typical Use For Precast Concrete
The Name Says It All!
From North To South, HAL Has A Space That Fits
StructureCare Division Launches Its New Website
President’s Safety Awards Are Presented At Annual Summit
GAL/HCC Virtuoso Brings Messiah College Project To A Finale
HSSI Webinar Solidifies Its Relationship With Granite Construction Inc.
HHL Marks A Quarter Century Of Legendary Service
They Give Good Measure!
Charles E. Gillenwater, Jr. and Barry L. Miller
Continuous Improvement Technicians, HSSI, Lancaster, PA
High Honors
High Awards
HSSI Establishes Greener And More Efficient Inspection Technology
Precast Concrete Meets High Performance Goals
High Co-Workers Are Keepin’ It Green!
Wilkes-Barre Team Lends A Hand To Preserve Pennsylvania History
HHL Extends Hospitality And Culinary Talents To Serve TLC Residents
High Co-Workers Support The YWCA’s Annual Race Against Racism
On The Cover: Dale High stands at 27 West Lemon Street, Lancaster, Pennsylvania, the building which housed High Welding Company when it first began. Photo courtesy of Fig, www.figlancaster.com.
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:
Laurie M. Newmoyer, Editor lnewmoyer@high.net (717) 293-4479 Spring/Summer 2013
See this, and past editions of High Spirit, on High Home!
“I
learned a lot from not having success, and realizing
when you do have success, how hard it is to maintain it, and what you have to do to maintain it.”
Randy
Johnson, American League Baseball Player, b. 1963
In this issue of High Spirit, we would like to congratulate S. Dale High, Chair of the Boards of High Industries Inc. and High Real Estate Group LLC, on reaching his 50-year service anniversary, and thank him for all he has done for the High® companies and for the community.
Dale is one of a very few co-workers in the history of High to have served a total of 50 years, and how amazing those 50 years have been! In reference to the quote from Randy Johnson (who was born in 1963), we believe that, day-in and day-out, Dale has spent his 50 years of service with the company not only maintaining success, but building upon it to create and grow High to become the diverse group of companies it is today.
Dale started working at High Welding Company part-time, and then gained more experience working the second shift. He joined the company full-time in 1963 after graduating from Elizabethtown College. Dale often tells the story that, upon returning from college to the family business, he was unsure of what role he was to play. He walked into his father’s office and asked, “What do you want me to do around here?” Sanford looked up at him and, totally flabbergasted, replied, “What do you mean what do I want you to do?! I sent you to college so you would know what to do!”
Dale took this response as a license to make things happen, and that is exactly what he did. Under Dale’s leadership, the company began to grow into new strategic directions, adding new products, acquiring companies, and starting new ventures. Today, the organization includes more than 15 entities employing more than 2,000 coworkers in a widely diversified
group of growing companies. If we look around, we see countless examples of Dale’s hard work and passion for excellence, and his development and execution of bold visions that have benefitted so many people. These examples appear within the High companies and throughout South-Central Pennsylvania, as well as up and down the East Coast. Some are quite visible in bricks and mortar or new community organizations, while others are tied to the many relationships that Dale has developed in the community.
Over the years, Dale has volunteered his leadership talents with numerous volunteer, non-profit, government, and for-profit company boards and committees, making a significant impact in these organizations. Dale was the Founder of The S. Dale High Center for Family Business at Elizabethtown College, an organization that provides education, support, and peer dialogue for family businesses in the region. He has served on the Lancaster Chamber of Commerce and Industry and the Pennsylvania Chamber of Business and Industry, as well as currently serving on the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. Dale has also provided leadership and influence in the political arena. He has clearly helped to build and grow our communities, and we are grateful to him for his efforts and success in this realm.
Dale has always been a strong believer in the High brand and has focused on enhancing and growing its value and continuing the High Family tradition of building a company with which we are all proud to be associated.
Thank you, Dale, for your many years of service! It has been, and continues to be, a pleasure to work with you. We admire your vision, leadership, and ongoing commitment to The High Philosophy of Building Trustworthy Relationships and Being an Innovative Leader.
Congratulations, Dale!
Last year’s High in the 70s campaign realized a 78.8 percent participation rate. Congratulations to everyone who did their part and realized hundreds of dollars of savings. This year, we are targeting 80 percent or more of all covered co-workers to qualify for the preferred health care contribution rate . . . with High in the 80s!
Like last year, your involvement is critical to the program’s success, and to your opportunity to pay less. Here are the key facts:
The 2013 biometric screening will be held on site at most High® locations from the end of August through September 2013.
If you prefer, you may instead submit risk factors from your doctor using a Physician Reported Affidavit.
To qualify for the preferred health care contribution rate in 2014:
ALL CO-WORKERS: Complete the biometric screening, health risk assessment, and tobacco affidavit.
2012 SCREENING PARTICIPANTS:
Meet or improve in four of the six risk factors. The chart shows the healthy benchmarks for which you should strive.
2012 SCREENING NON-PARTICIPANTS:
Meet four of six risk factors. The chart shows the healthy benchmarks you must meet.
CO-WORKERS HIRED AFTER OCTOBER 2012:
Participate in the 2013 screening.
In addition, tobacco cessation resources continue to be available to help you quit and stay quit. For more information and forms, including the Physician Reported Affidavit, please see your site’s Human Resources representative.
Hearth & Home Technologies™ (HHT) is the world’s leading producer and installer of hearth products designed to incorporate the very latest in materials and technology. One of HHT’s brands, Harman Stove Company, has rigorous flatness and surface requirements. High Steel Service Center LLC (HSSCL) provides Harman with a cost-driven solution with HIGHSL ® Panel Flat that Stays Flat sheet and plate. Produced on HSSCL’s stretcher leveler, the product enables Harman to improve product quality while reducing its operating costs. HSSCL
is the only service center located in its geographic footprint with a stretcher leveler that has two in-line Bradbury Roller Levelers, one of which has advanced e-Drive technology.
According to John Hilbert, Hearth Expert Fabrication Supervisor, “Harman produces the highest quality stove on the market and demands the highest quality steel. Since High Steel Service Center installed a new stretcher leveler, they have supplied us with just that. They also deliver the material daily and on-time without disrupting our internal flow.”
In September 2012, HSSCL received a score of 288 of a possible 300 points on HHT’S Supplier Quality Systems Audit. Many High® co-workers were involved in developing documentation and certifications presented during the audit. The HHT Auditors were impressed by High’s commitment to the Continuous Improvement Process. Harman’s Lead Procurement Engineer stated, “Seeing your quality systems in action has given us a high confidence level that you will continue to provide HHT with products that meet or exceed our specifications”. Following the audit, HHT committed to a three-year agreement for HSSCL to supply 100 percent of Harman’s metal requirements.
The success of this relationship can be attributed to HSSCL co-workers who are dedicated to providing high quality products that exceed customers’ expectations. HSSCL will continue to seek opportunities to provide “good measure” as it expands its sales territory to include Virginia and New York.
Earlier this year, High Hotels Ltd.’s SpringHill Suites in Ewing, New Jersey, received a special recognition from Condè Nast Traveler’s Perrin Post. The on-line blog, written by Wendy Perrin, gives the hotel high praise for its smartly designed rooms that include large workspaces with comfortable chairs and plenty of electrical outlets. Perrin also mentions the free hot breakfast, free Wi-Fi, the indoor pool, and lobby bar. The big bowl of lollipops at the front desk is a big hit with the children, as well!
To read the complete article, go to www.cntraveler.com/perrin-post/2013/04/ springhill-suites-a-surprising-hotel-experience.
Employees of companies throughout Greenfield Corporate Center and the community joined High® co-workers for the mid-day walk through the Corporate Center’s picturesque grounds on National Walking Day, April 3, 2013. The event was hosted by Lighten Up Lancaster County, a community wellness group in which High is an active member, in partnership with Lancaster General Health and the American Heart Association (AHA).
Walkers followed several paths that were marked with signage offering tips for healthier living. The paths brought the walkers to the Calvin G. High Pavilion, where they were treated to healthy refreshments.
According to the AHA, physical activity is critical to being healthy, but less than 50 percent of adults get enough exercise. Adults need at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week to see the health benefits of physical activity such as lower blood pressure, improved bone health, weight maintenance after weight loss, better sleep, and more energy. The AHA hopes people will make physical activity a priority beyond National Walking Day and find the fun in being fit.
High® has a philosophy of valuing its customers and meeting their needs. For more than 20 years, High Associates Ltd. (HAL) has done just that by partnering with ACADIA, Inc., a provider of after-hospital rehabilitation services for adults with acquired brain injuries, to provide quality clinical facilities in Greenfield Corporate Center for its residential and day-treatment programs.
More recently, HAL began offering customized, state-of-the-art living environments at its Greenfield Estates and Bentley Ridge apartment communities. These facilities support ACADIA in its mission to optimize the rehabilitation process and enhance opportunities for successful return of its clients to community living.
Earlier this year, ACADIA, Inc. celebrated 25 years of service to the Lancaster County community. At an appreciation luncheon, High co-workers were recognized by ACADIA’s executive team for this long-term partnership. High Real Estate Group LLC’s affiliates have provided assistance in the areas of development, architectural design, and construction services. By identifying and addressing the needs of this client and those it serves, HAL has built a trustworthy and enduring relationship.
For more information about ACADIA, Inc. and the services it provides, visit www.acadiarehab.com.
For the past seven years of his career, Brian W. LaBorde spent every weekend flying back and forth from his home in Brentwood, Tennessee, to his job in Monclova, Mexico. On March 18, 2013, Brian traded in his wings, moved from Tennessee, and put down roots in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania.
As the newly-appointed President of High Steel Structures Inc. (HSSI), Brian brings vast experience in manufacturing and leadership, most recently serving as General Manager for Greenbrier Companies in Lake Oswego, Oregon. In this position, he was responsible for rail car production in Mexico, leading to the establishment of a new manufacturing operation and building a workforce of more than 2,000 employees.
Upon meeting Brian, it is clear that he is full of energy and enthusiasm. An innovator, he holds nine patents; five for auto servicing and wheel balancing equipment, and four for archery bows. Brian is a graduate of Louisiana Tech University with a Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering. He also holds a Masters degree from the University of Arizona in Mechanical Engineering, and a Masters of Business Administration from the University of Gainesville, Florida.
When asked what drew him to Lancaster and a career with HSSI, Brian expressed an interest in working for a private company, saying, “I was intrigued with the Company’s tremendous reputation and culture, as well as the camaraderie and teamwork I had witnessed among co-workers. The beautiful countryside, friendly community, and proximity to larger metropolitan areas made Lancaster County especially attractive.”
A self-proclaimed collector of hobbies, Brian enjoys photography, woodworking (he built much of the furniture in his home), and European motorcycles. While he may have traded in his commercial airline wings, Brian did not give up flying entirely; he is an instrument-rated pilot, in addition to flying his glider. He and his wife, Sarah, have fun cooking gourmet, and are also avid scuba divers. Brian can be seen riding his bike alongside Sarah as she trains for marathons by running the country roads of Lancaster County.
Bustling downtown New Brunswick, New Jersey, places its focus on a healthconscious populace with its new wellness plaza. The seven-story facility provides a 50,000 square-foot The Fresh Grocer supermarket, and a 60,000 square-foot, state-of-the-art fitness/wellness education center, operated by Robert Wood Johnson University Health System, as well as a 1,200-space parking facility on
the upper levels. High Concrete Group LLC’s (HCGL) Denver, Pennsylvania, plant produced 1,426 pieces for this all-precast structure.
According to Glenn Kustera, a structural engineer for the designer PS&S Architectural/Engineering, precast was not the only system considered; however, keeping one building system for the whole structure worked for everyone’s benefit. “Using a parking garage system with double tees for supermarkets, wellness centers, and gyms is not typical. It was nice that the precast solution wound up being the most economical system.”
Key design challenges included working within a tight, urban setting, while ensuring that all of the owner’s needs were met. The facility is an outstanding example of a total precast structure with multi-use spaces incorporated into the lower levels of the garage, and an integrated mechanical mezzanine to support the needs of the retail/wellness areas. Said Kustera, “Simplicity in design, longspan column-free areas, faster erection, fewer pieces, same building system. Everyone was able to get what they wanted from the building.”
High Safety Consulting Services Ltd. has long been known for providing training, testing, and consulting in the area of safety. To better reflect the changing landscape of the services it currently provides, the Company adopted a new name earlier this year. “Since the Company’s beginnings in 1997, the business model has changed. High Environmental Health & Safety Consulting Ltd. (High EH&S) represents the services our team of highly-trained professionals provides today,” said the Company’s President, Steve High.
Poor indoor air quality, illness outbreaks, ergonomic injuries, chemical exposure events, non-ionizing radiation, and noise are environmental health issues that have come to the forefront of workplace and building safety for the team. High EH&S addresses these, as well as those aspects considered to be traditional safety, through a process of recognition, evaluation, and control. The company seeks to diagnose, evaluate, and treat issues related to environmental health and/or safety performance for its clients. The company works with insurance companies, home-owners, commercial, industrial, healthcare, educational, and government entities.
In addition to the change in name, High EH&S has moved within Greenfield Corporate Center from its original location in the High Corporate Office to 1866 Colonial Village Lane, Suite 110.
With the new facility, the company has a dedicated training room and space to maintain its equipment and operations. The group plans to expand its training offerings and promotions, as well as the products it offers through its e-commerce site.
A new website was launched earlier this year at www.highehs.com.
In a previous issue of High Spirit, the 50th anniversary of Greenfield Corporate Center was commemorated; however, there are many more properties in High Associates Ltd.’s (HAL) portfolio that meet the needs of businesses from Pennsylvania to Florida. Following are brief descriptions of those properties and the clients they serve:
Rossmoyne Business Center
Rossmoyne Business Center is also home to the Executive Offices at Rossmoyne, offering full-service professional office suites.
Rossmoyne broke ground in 1985, and currently consists of 11 buildings, two vacant lots, plus two existing hotels - Hampton Inn and Homewood Suites by Hilton, both owned by High Hotels Ltd. - and one hotel in the planning stages. Together, the buildings total 522,456 square feet. The approximately 60 businesses include corporate and sales offices, logistics providers, engineers, accountants, laboratory space, tech and medical companies, a call/claims center, warehouse distribution, restaurants, a day care, and dog grooming. Its suburban location with easy access to Route 15, Pennsylvania Turnpike, and Capital Beltway, is attractive to businesses.
Highlands Corporate Center
Highlands broke ground in 1989. Today, it consists of seven buildings totaling 449,000 square feet, and leases to 22 businesses that range from electronic circuit manufacturing to orthodontic services.
The entrance to Highlands Corporate Center.
The 117,000 square-foot Office Plaza is comprised of five buildings containing 42 businesses. Space consists primarily of office suites, but also includes some medical suites.
Highland Business Park
Built between 1982 and 1985, Highland Business Park is comprised of seven buildings that total 168,000 square feet. It is located at I-77, a major north/
south thoroughfare, and Tyvola Road, a key east/west corridor to Charlotte Douglas International Airport and the city of Charlotte. Banking, telecommunications and software, health care, residential mortgage, staffing, commercial printing, and engineering services, as well as construction and commercial furniture sales, are representative of the 17 businesses leasing space at Highland Business Park.
One Mallard Pointe
Built in 2001, the 100,000 square-foot building holds 13 businesses. Types of businesses include software consulting, wealth management, construction material sales, property and casualty underwriting and claims, and residential mortgage, corporate benefit, staffing, and communications services.
Prosperity Place
Constructed between 1999 and 2001, Prosperity Place’s three buildings total 215,000 square feet. Twenty businesses are located there and include commercial lending and residential mortgage services, software consulting, engineering, healthcare management, publishing, real estate, and personal and property insurance sales.
Quorum Business Park
The eight buildings, totaling 209,000 square feet, comprise the business park, which was built between 1985 and 1988. The 49 businesses leasing space include insurance sales, commercial telephone systems and software sales and support, advertising, health care services and staffing, and civil engineering, attorney, and financial services. Businesses choose Quorum because of its location along the primary east/ west route into Charlotte’s east side, as well as attractive housing options and pricing, and proximity to restaurants and banks.
Parkland Center Corporate Park
HAL purchased its first property in early 1985, and the first building was completed later that year. This office/industrial development consists of three phases, and is approximately 95 percent built
out. In all, High owns approximately 40 percent of the 89.24-acre corporate park. Current holdings include 16 buildings totaling 358,435 square feet. The grounds include seven stocked lakes, abundant trees, and plenty of green space.
Parkland is located six miles from Sarasota/Bradenton International Airport, and only minutes from I-75, Florida’s major north/south artery. Among the owners and tenants are a nationally known bakery, moving and storage firms, a radio station, electronics manufacturers, and an ophthalmic research and development firm.
In 2008, HAL added another building, located in Manasota Industrial Park, to its Florida portfolio. This 48,720 square-foot structure is the only tilt-up building in the High portfolio, and is zoned light manufacturing. All other buildings in the four-acre Park are owner-occupied.
Earlier this year, High Concrete Group LLC’s StructureCare® division launched a new website to position the business for growth in parking structure maintenance and restoration. StructureCare is a service and consulting resource focused on developing and implementing preventive maintenance programs for garages of all construction types.
The website explains how StructureCare® can help to preserve parking structures.
The technically-oriented website informs facilities managers, owners, and other professionals about important considerations to preserve their parking structure investment and to provide a safe and pleasant environment for visitors. The site features StructureCare services, including detailed condition assessments, preventive maintenance program development, in-service training of facility staff, restoration management and implementation, and structural preventive maintenance services.
Visit the new site at www.structurecareus.com
On Thursday, March 7, the High Environmental Health and Safety Department (EHS) held its annual Safety Summit, a celebration of outstanding safety efforts and performance. This year, a total of nine High businesses and properties were named Safety Circle Winners. Representatives from each of these areas – two in Manufacturing/Construction and seven in Hotels/Properties – offered short presentations highlighting achievements, explaining how their teams attained outstanding safety records, and why they were deserving of the President’s Safety Award. They are as follows:
High Construction Company
High Steel Structures Inc., Fabrication
Bentley Ridge Apartments
Greenfield Estates Apartments
Hampton Inn-Harrisburg West
Hampton Inn-Lancaster
High Associates Ltd. Construction Services/Maintenance
High Associates Ltd. Property Services
York Ridge Apartments
Lancaster, Pennsylvania
Lancaster, Pennsylvania
Lancaster, Pennsylvania
Lancaster, Pennsylvania
Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania
Lancaster, Pennsylvania
Lancaster, Pennsylvania
Lancaster, Pennsylvania
Charlotte, North Carolina
PRESENTER PRESENTER PRESENTER PRESENTER
Matt Twomey
Mike Brunozzi
Stephanie Holden
Leah Connors
Laura Goyette
Ben Larsen and Bobby Shoemaker
Rob Vasko
Tim Campbell
Tina McGinnis
Following the presentations, Executive Committee members met privately to select the President’s Safety Award winners. The Hotels/Properties award went to High Associates Ltd. Construction Services/ Maintenance Team, whose presenter, Rob Vasko, attributed their success to co-workers’ buy-in of the safety program. The Manufacturing/ Construction award was given to High Construction Company. Presenter, Matt Twomey, commended co-workers for making safety a habit.
Fritz Shaak, Director of EHS, noted that Safety Circle status represents impressive achievement in safety. “As we continue to raise the bar for safety performance across all High ® companies, selection criteria continue to be more demanding. For 2012, selection was based on a combination of OSHA Recordable Incident Rates, OSHA Day Away Case Rates, Corporate EHS Audit Assessment Scores, and Drive to Zero Percent Completion Scores.” Thank you to all co-workers who strive to work safely each and every day!
and Matt Twomey (HCC).
Co-workers who made significant contributions to this project are:
Ross Ansel (GAL)
John Burkholder (HCC)
Sean Conlin (GAL)
Dave Dieterly (HCC)
MaryJo Dietrich (GAL)
Brian Hicks (HCC)
Sharlene Long (HCC)
Jennifer Mader (HCC)
Tom Marcinkoski (GAL)
Amy Martzall (HCC)
Ron Martzall (GAL)
Mike Pluta (HCC)
Brian Reichert (HCC)
Fran Richards (GAL)
Wayne Stevens (GAL)
Earlier this year, Messiah College, located in Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania, unveiled The Calvin and Janet High Center for Worship and Performing Arts. Designed by Greenfield Architects Ltd. (GAL) with High Construction Company (HCC) serving as the construction manager, this 150,000 square-foot facility entailed renovation of the existing Climenhaga Building, as well as a new addition. The new building consists of a 1,200-person worship/ symphony hall, teaching studios, practice rooms, a recording studio, faculty offices, a library, lobby and auxiliary spaces, and choral, instrument, and chamber rehearsal rooms. Renovations to the Climenhaga Building included a new black box studio, restrooms, and green rooms. The project posed unique challenges, including sound mitigation from both outside and within the building, and coordination of trades to keep construction on track, as well as maintaining access to the auditorium and surrounding offices and performing spaces, all of which are located in the center of the complex.
In a letter to Matt Twomey, President of HCC, Messiah College’s Vice President for Operations Kathrynne Shafer stated, “This building provides Messiah College and our students with a beautiful state-of-the-art, acoustically-designed building that is second to none. The Calvin and Janet High Center for Worship and Performing Arts is a building that will be a showcase for performing arts not only for Messiah College, but also within the Central Pennsylvania area.”
Following the first public concert in the facility, Nevin Cooley, Chief Executive Officer of High®, congratulated the GAL and HCC teams, saying, “I was proud to hear the accolades you received from College administration, as well as from the College faculty. Thank you for all of your contributions, creativity, and dedication.”
During High Steel Structures Inc.’s (HSSI) 2012 Fall Open House, Thomas J. Wandzilak, Business Development Design Manager, was approached and asked by a Granite Construction Inc. executive to consider making a technical presentation to Granite’s employees in the United States via a webinar. Seeing this webinar as a great opportunity to enhance HSSI’s already good long-term relationship with Granite, Tom agreed.
Granite Construction builds infrastructure-related projects, including bridges, across the United States. HSSI had most recently fabricated steel for the 2008 Maryland State Highway Administration’s Mega Project, The Intercounty Connector, for which Granite and two other companies served as general contractor. Granite is heavily involved with many large-scale design-build projects in the Northeast, including the Tappan Zee Bridge.
The webinar – Structural Steel Bridge Fabrication, Design-Build Consideration – was presented on April 17, 2013, from the confines of Tom’s Lancaster, Pennsylvania, office. Granite’s Organizational Development personnel in Chicago, Illinois, hosted the webinar and provided the technical services that enabled more than 100 Granite employees to view the 75-minute PowerPoint presentation.
Granite employees asked technical questions during and after the presentation by phone, or thru the use of the webinar’s chat room. Those who were not able to participate in the live webinar will be able to watch a recorded version.
Reaction to the webinar was overwhelmingly positive. Comments included:
“Excellent content. Great tips from the fabricator that we do not normally hear about until we have the job.”
“It was very helpful to see what considerations should be taken into account when designing structural steel.”
“There was a lot of good information from the fabricator’s point of view that I had never considered.”
This opportunity underscores the value of HSSI’s annual Fall Open House and the role it plays in strengthening relationships. Through the webinar, Tom was able to build a better understanding of HSSI’s role in steel fabrication, and meet the needs of a valued partner in the structural steel industry.
The 1989 groundbreaking for HHL’s first hotel, the Hampton Inn-Lancaster, Pennsylvania.
A recognized leader in the hotel industry, High Hotels Ltd. (HHL) is known for setting the highest standards in guest service and product quality for its properties in the Mid-Atlantic and Northeast regions. As an owneroperator, HHL develops, acquires, owns, and operates hotels franchised through Hilton Hotels Corporation and Marriott International, Inc.
Since its inception in 1988, HHL coworkers and properties have earned more than 100 awards from the Hilton and Marriott organizations. Among them is the prestigious Diamond Circle Award, earned by only approximately 15 of the more than 850 Courtyard by Marriott hotels worldwide for top performance in guest satisfaction and other key indicators.
“Hire the heart,” says President and Chief Operating Officer Michael Fruin. “We are in the business of taking care of people, so we are careful to bring on co-workers who are passionate about what they do.”
Fruin takes pride in his organization’s well-conceived and well-executed culture.
“Our co-workers have a voice in how we do business. We engage with our guests to better understand their needs, and address any issues on the spot. We want to make their day, and we get a thrill out of making a difference.”
As for the future, expect more hotels. “It is good to be an eternal optimist, but all the indicators are that each coming year will be better than the last,” says Fruin. HHL’s commitment to coworker and customer satisfaction will continue to drive its success.
Lancaster, Pennsylvania
Gillenwater,
Nominator: James J. ‘Jamie’ Stock
Successful process improvements are usually the work of a team of coworkers; however, during the process, some team members may rise beyond the task at hand and show true leadership. That is the case with Chuck Gillenwater and Barry Miller, who were instrumental in developing, implementing, and supporting several process improvements, including the Girder Builder in North Bay, and the Electro-Slag Welder (ESW) for Lancaster and Williamsport.
These high-profile projects required commitment during development and start-up. During that time, Chuck and Barry worked with vendors, influencing the design to meet HSSI’s needs, and troubleshooting implementation and production issues. Jamie Stock said of the dynamic duo, “They often had a better handle on things than the supplier!”
Chuck and Barry have spent countless hours both on and off the clock. The Girder Builder has reduced labor costs, and the ESW has had a positive impact on splicing operations. Both of these improvements are a big departure from conventional welding processes, so Chuck and Barry continue to work with operators in training, troubleshooting, and on Continuous Improvement ideas. Their expertise in these and other processes has made them the “go to guys” when a problem arises. They have helped to drive High Steel Structures Inc. forward in welding processes, which will have a positive impact for years to come.
. . .earned a Masters of Business Administration degree, with a focus on Management, from LaSalle University School of Business in May 2013. In addition, he was inducted into the Beta Gamma Sigma International Honor Society. Lance joined HCGL in 2010, and serves as Project Manager.
. . .received the 2013 Well Workplace Platinum Award for its High Health Management Program. Presented by the community health group Lighten Up Lancaster County at the 2013 Health Summit, the award is the top honor for companies of 500 or more employees. Jenni Simmons, Corporate Benefits Administrator, accepted the award on behalf of High ® . Lighten Up Lancaster County membership includes concerned residents, parents, and community organizations committed to increasing the number of adults and children who are at a healthy weight.
Modeled on an award from national not-for-profit Wellness Council of America (WELCOA), the Well Workplace Award was created in 2010 to recognize successful workplace initiatives and the leadership and dedication of Lancaster-area organizations who have worked to improve the health and well-being of their employees.
An active member of Lighten Up Lancaster County , High was one of only five organizations recognized in this year’s competition.
. . .was confirmed as a board member at AltusGroup, Inc.’s 2013 Annual Meeting. Mike joined HCGL in 1987, and serves as Regional Sales Manager.
Mark B. Carney Mark B. Carney Mark B. Carney Mark B. Carney Carney, High Company LLC , High Company LLC , High Company LLC , High Company LLC ,
. . .was presented with Ultimate Software’s Innovation Award in the category of Analytics for Measureable Returns. Mark devised a formula that provides users of UltiPro ® - software that High uses to manage co-worker payroll and records - with more meaningful and accurate turnover reporting than was previously available. The award was presented by Ultimate executives and Pat Riley, Team President of the Miami Heat, at Ultimate’s national conference held earlier this year in Las Vegas, Nevada. Mark joined High ® in 2007, and serves as Human Resource Information Services Supervisor.
Bridget Hofman, High Environmental Health & Safety Consulting Ltd.
Bridget Hofman, High Environmental Health & Safety Consulting Ltd.
High Environmental Health & Consulting
. . .was named to the Lebanon County Commission for Women’s Hall of Fame Class of 2013, and was the recipient of the Women Innovating in Science and Technology Award. This award recognizes Bridget for her contributions to improving the outdoor environment for citizens, and the indoor occupational environment for workers. Bridget joined the Company in 1990, and serves as Senior Safety and Health Consultant.
Thomas A Thomas A Thomas A Thomas A Thomas . Holmes, High Concrete Group LLC . Holmes, High Concrete Group LLC
. Holmes, High Concrete Group LLC . Holmes, High Concrete Group LLC . Concrete
. . .was elected to a two-year term as Chairman of AltusGroup, Inc., a partnership of 14 precast companies and carbon grid suppliers, during its April meeting. Tom, Vice President of Sales, joined HCGL in 2004.
High Steel Structures Inc. (HSSI) recently established a new, greener radiographic method to inspect welds in its bridge components. Replacing the conventional x-ray film method used previously, the radiographic method uses short wavelength electromagnetic radiation to inspect the welded steel joints.
The radiographic process is more environmentally sustainable than prior methods because it uses less energy, and eliminates the need for the x-ray film, lead, and development chemicals. The new approach moves the weld imaging from film to digital, a format that saves on storage space for customers, and makes the direct image and associated information easier to access.
The digital technology represents an improvement over earlier-generation digital inspection technology that created a computer image out of the original film. The newer technology provides a direct digitized image that requires less exposure time and much less overall time to execute. It is also less expensive than prior technology.
In high-volume jobs that are a matter of course for HSSI, such an improvement in efficiency and effectiveness of an inspection method can really make a significant impact on the overall project.
Green building and sustainability are important goals for construction projects; however, this is only part of the picture. As the sustainability movement has matured, there is recognition that overall performance of a structure is a key aspect of sustainability.
Sustainable structures require high performance materials and systems which are versatile, efficient, and resilient. Precast concrete fulfills these three requirements. It is versatile in color, form, texture, and in structural features. Efficiency goals include long service-life, thermally-efficient barrier wall systems, and low life-cycle costs. Its
resilient features include protection against damage and destruction from both natural and man-made sources.
High Concrete Group LLC meets the demands of providing sustainable, high performance structures. The Residence Halls at Binghamton University, Vestal, New York, are energy efficient and ecologically sound. At the Wright Patterson Air Force Base, Dayton, Ohio, requirements included security from terrorist and natural threats, versatility to accommodate a wide range of functions, and energy efficiency.
To “Discover High Performance Precast,” visit the Precast/Prestressed Concrete Institute (PCI) High Performance website, at www.pci.org/hpprecast.
Cooley
the Engel family; Kurt (HAL), Tammy (HAL), and daughter Bridget.
Put them all together, they spell E-A-R-T-H! Bill Ward, Willie Mae McLaughlin, Marci Paniagua, Natalie Basso, and Laura Nagelhout.
April 6 marked the first of three scheduled ECO Task Force-sponsored AdoptA-Highway events for 2013. Co-workers and family members donned fluorescent vests and heavy work gloves, and volunteered a Saturday morning to collect trash and other debris. Their hard work helped to beautify an area along Route 30 in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, making the approach to Greenfield Corporate Center cleaner and even more welcoming.
The Hampton Inn-York, Pennsylvania, marked Earth Day with a fun-filled week of trivia and prizes, education, recycling projects, and “The Most Amazing Earth Race.” The York Solid Waste Authority made a presentation to explain what happens to trash and recyclables after they are picked up from the curb. Each co-worker was given a tomato plant and participated in a Go Green Pot Luck Lunch. They also held a recycling session, donating partially used shampoo, shower gel, and lotion to a local charity.
In Lancaster, Pennsylvania, the Bentley Ridge team spent a day picking up 87 pounds of trash and pet waste throughout the community. While this was certainly not a glamorous job, you can be sure their hard work was appreciated by the residents!
To further beautify Bentley Ridge, the team planted flowers in pots of various sizes. These 50 planters were placed at the community entrances and in the pool area for residents to enjoy.
In Pottstown, Pennsylvania, Orchard Ridge co-workers planted flowers in three garden areas, and in more than 30 pots and 20 hanging baskets, which were placed around the community.
Picking up waste is not a pleasant job, as demonstrated by Karen Edwards, Ron Kilby, Nelson Robles, Allison Weaver, Brett Dombach, Joel Meck, and Stephanie Holden. Orchard Ridge’s Seth Perchalski and Craig Cronenburg (left), and Bentley Ridge’s Nelson Robles (right), prove they are not afraid to get their hands dirty!
The ECO Task Force also observed Earth Day with five days of activities. The week began with document shredding and an eScrap collection, and ended with a celebration luncheon at the Calvin G. High Pavilion in Greenfield Corporate Center, complete with a guest speaker from Lancaster County Solid Waste Management. Participants received a battery recycling bag containing a pine tree seedling.
“Since when do trees require batteries?”
Mark Carney (HCL) distributes eco-friendly gifts.
Earlier this year, members of the Wilkes-Barre Hilton Garden Inn team joined others in their community during the United Way Day of Caring. Co-workers pulled weeds, cleared brush, and performed general clean-up duties at Eckley Miner’s Village, a museum under the Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission. Exhibits there provide a living history of those who labored through the hardships of the industrial revolution.
Thank you, Wilkes-Barre team, for volunteering your time to help preserve this important part of Pennsylvania history for future generations to enjoy.
Hotel Executive Leadership Meetings (HELM) help co-workers from across the High Hotels Ltd. (HHL) organization come together to share ideas and best practices, get to know new people, and update their skills and knowledge. Typically held in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, these meetings help bring organizational alignment and reinforce HHL’s culture.
Jacki Lucas, Greg Werner, Kim Aus, Dan Wojciechowski, and Elizabeth Sands are ready to serve!
When the two-day meetings break up for the evening, HELM participants take on community causes. Earlier this year, they prepared hot, kid-friendly meals on two separate evenings for about 50 residents of Tabor Community Services’ Transitional Living Center (TLC) in downtown Lancaster. TLC helps families and individuals experiencing homelessness by providing a temporary roof until they can achieve financial stability.
On the first evening, the menu consisted of mac and cheese, chicken tenders, and ice cream, served by the Assistant General Managers and Operations Managers; on the second evening, the Sales team treated residents to lasagna and marinated chicken breast, followed by cakes specially decorated for the occasion.
The meals were prepared by the Courtyard by Marriott - Lancaster, Pennsylvania, and transported to TLC where they were served in the main lobby. HELM participants who commented on their experience said it was inspiring and rewarding, and that they intended to bring their new ideas and energy to coworkers at their hotels.
In April, High® co-workers, family members, and friends joined others in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, to build awareness of the negative impact of racism, and to raise funds for anti-racism programs during the YWCA’s annual Race Against Racism .
“This is an exciting event that shows the unity of the Lancaster community and its overwhelming support of this very important cause,” said Michelle McCann (HSSI), coordinator of the High team. “Every year, I am pleased with the number of co-workers who participate in the Race Against Racism , and appreciate that they get their family and friends involved, as well.”
Thank you to all who participated in this important community event!
