High Spirit Thank You
In this issue...
l A Message for High Coworkers
David Aungst
Karen Biondolillo
Joe Connors
Sara Ensor
Angie Guerrero
Lori Guiseppe
Tara Hipps
Sarah Maser
Tina McGinnis
Lindsay McGuire
Ronnie Medlock
Krista Merkel
Stephanie Reese
Melissa Reid
Elaine Richard
Laurel Rolle
Lauren Rose
Fritz Shaak
Mike Shirk
Chris Snyder
Rebecca Sommer
Robin Stauffer
Scott Werkheiser
717/293-4479 for your help in producing this edition of High Spirit.
F Building on the Vision of Higher Purpose: High Real Estate Group Ownership Transfers to High Foundation
l Industry Leadership
F Dale High Marks 60 Years of Service
F HHL Grows Its Portfolio by Acquiring Three Properties
F High Celebrates Achievements in Safety
F Teamwork Earns Coworkers Good Measure Grand Prize Awards
l Richard J. Fuhrman, Nigel Koppehele-Shaak, and Barry Miller
High Steel Structures, Lancaster, PA
l Craig C. Cronenberg, Erik C. McCulloch, Alex Moleski, Jennifer M. Stump, Kathryn S. Sylvia, and Stephen L. Walker
High Associates, Orchard Ridge, Pottstown, PA
F They Give Good Measure
l Danielle D. Bannon, High Steel Structures, Lancaster, PA
l Mathew E. Birney, StructureCare, Lancaster, PA
l Thomas F. Clark, High Associates, Lancaster, PA
l Clinton R. Dowlin, High Concrete Group, Denver, PA
l P. Duane Haug, High Construction Company, Lancaster, PA
l Ryan Zwickle, High Associates, Lancaster, PA
F Coworker Referral Program: Good for High - Good for You!
F Look What’s Going on in Greenfield
F Doubling Down on Good Measure: HSS Executes Two Emergency Bridge Projects During the Summer of 2023
F High Honors
F High Awards
l Environmental Stewardship
F HSS Plant Exceeds Water Authority’s Stormwater Requirements
l Community Commitment
F 2023 United Way Campaign: Supporting a Higher Purpose
F High Foundation’s Partnership Aims to Inspire STEM Exploration
F High Foundation Awards 2023 Scholarships
Laurie M. Newmoyer, Editor lnewmoyer@high.net
A MESSAGE FOR HIGH COWORKERS
Building on the Vision of a Higher Purpose: High
Real Estate Group
Ownership Transfers to High Foundation
In December 2023, High Real Estate Group LLC joined High Industries Inc. in its ownership transition to High Foundation. Under this new structure, High Industries has continued to thrive, with dividends going to High Foundation for direct investment into the community under the leadership of its Board of Trustees and Executive Director Robin Stauffer.
HREG will now join this innovative ownership structure, directing dividends from real estate holdings directly to High Foundation.
The shift of High ownership to High Foundation was the vision of S. Dale High. It represents The High Philosophy of trust and innovation that has been in place for three generations. This Higher Purpose has already begun to be realized, with increased investments from High Foundation allowing greater collaboration, bringing new ideas to life, and supporting important initiatives for social and environmental impact in the Lancaster community and other communities where High coworkers live and work. Dale’s example will leave a lasting legacy that will impact Lancaster County and beyond for generations.
S. Dale High, Chair Emeritus
Mark Fitzgerald, President and COO, High Real Estate Group; Dale High; Mike Shirk, CEO of High; Robin Stauffer, Executive Director, High Foundation; and Dean Glick, Director, High Family Office.
A MESSAGE FOR HIGH COWORKERS
What began as High Properties, a partnership between S. Dale High, his brother Calvin, and their children, has grown over the years into HREG, a diverse collection of companies with an expansive portfolio. The completion of the transfer of Dale High’s interest in HREG to High Foundation will provide even more opportunity for community impact, realizing his vision of a group of companies existing to benefit the community.
In the words of S. Dale High, “We are on this earth for a purpose that is larger than our own self-interests, and we must strive to make the world a better place.”
A Higher Purpose
As he began to plan for the next chapter of High companies, Dale High envisioned a change in the structure of the company—an inspired model that continues the company’s legacy and work in the community. He asked the question, What if we could create a company that directly benefits the community? This shift continues the legacy of Dale High’s transformative and innovative leadership, which has guided High companies in using business as a force for good in the community for decades, and High Foundation as a committed community partner for the past 40 years.
High Foundation supports interest in STEM careers through its support of Lancaster Science Factory. Read more about this exciting partnership on page 20.
“I am proud of Dale and our family for making this move,” said Suzanne High. “The High Family wholly supports this change as a continuation of its legacy and philosophy. While ownership of High companies is changing to High Foundation, the High Family will remain in the companies in a number of ways. As Vice Chair of High Foundation, I have seen first-hand the life-changing impact of our investments, and I am excited to see that continue to grow.”
A Bridge to Opportunity
Since 1980, High Foundation has been a thought leader and community partner, contributing over $30 million to projects and initiatives that help eliminate the cycle of poverty and create more vibrant and inclusive communities. High Foundation’s 40-year legacy of impact spans improvements in education, health and human services, arts and culture, historic preservation, environmental stewardship, and social enterprise in Lancaster County and beyond.
High Foundation has a strong governance structure in place to support its growth and future collaboration opportunities. Additional Trustees have been added to the Board, and Committees have been created. High Foundation will be scaled appropriately to handle the growth that will occur as a result of the new
A MESSAGE FOR HIGH COWORKERS
structure. “This is a remarkable gift from Dale High to High coworkers and our communities,” said Robin Stauffer, Executive Director of High Foundation. “This new structure multiplies the already generous impact High Foundation has had and emboldens the Foundation for even greater impact.”
The Ultimate Example of Business for Good
Family-owned since 1931, High companies will continue to thrive and grow under the leadership of its existing Boards of Directors, CEO Mike Shirk, the High Executive Committee, and leadership teams. High companies will continue to maintain a healthy financial position and have the capacity to invest in its strategic plans. The High Philosophy of Building Trustworthy Relationships and Being Innovative Leaders will continue to define corporate culture and values.
What will change is that dividends from HREG, along with HII, will now be received by High Foundation and invested directly into communities where our companies operate.
“Over the last several years, we have invested heavily in the successful growth of High Real Estate Group. Every project we do has a direct benefit to the community. With this ownership transition, our communities will now also realize the direct benefit of increased investment through High Foundation. It’s the ultimate commitment to doing business for good in an impactful and lasting way. It’s a truly bold and unique move made possible through Dale High’s vision and dedication to making it happen,” noted Mike Shirk, CEO of High companies.
To view the announcement about Dale High’s extraordinary gift to the Lancaster and High coworker communities, go to highfoundation.org.
High Foundation supports the communities in which we live and work. It is headquartered in Greenfield at The S. Dale High Leadership Center.
INDUSTRY LEADERSHIP
Dale High Marks 60 Years of Service
In 2023, S. Dale High, Chair Emeritus of High Industries Inc. and High Real Estate Group LLC, marked 60 years of service with High; however, he is quick to mention that, if adding the years of part-time work while a teen and through his college years, it would be closer to 68 years of service.
Dale loved the family business and wanted to be part of it from a young age. He first worked at High Steel’s James Street location in the City of Lancaster, Pennsylvania. While in high school, he rode his bike about seven miles from the family home in Strasburg to the shop located on Old Philadelphia Pike. After graduating from Elizabethtown College in June of 1963, Dale joined the company full-time.
With the formation of High Industries Inc. in 1977, Dale was appointed Chairman, President, and Chief Executive Officer of the entire enterprise, a position he held until 2005 when he continued as Chair of the Boards of HII and HREG, with others appointed to lead operations. Under Dale’s values-based leadership, the company grew in new strategic directions, adding new products, acquiring companies, and starting new ventures, becoming the family of businesses that comprise High today. In 2016, Dale was given the honorary title of Chair Emeritus, continuing to provide guidance and counsel to the Boards of Directors and leadership team.
As a Founder, Benefactor, and now Chair of the Board of High Foundation, it was announced in 2022 that S. Dale High transferred his ownership in High Industries Inc. to the High Foundation, emboldening the Foundation through an extraordinary act of business leadership and philanthropic innovation that will benefit communities for generations to come. He followed suit by also transferring his ownership of HREG to High Foundation. These very generous gifts continue Dale High’s legacy of transformative and innovative leadership, which has guided High in using business as a force for good in the community for decades.
Congratulations Dale! Thank you for your 60-plus years of service to High and to the community.
Dale High (right) in 1963 with his brother, Calvin, and father, Sanford.
Dale poses in the lobby of the S. Dale High Leadership Center.
INDUSTRY LEADERSHIP
HHL Grows its Portfolio by Acquiring Three Properties
High Hotels Ltd. expanded its portfolio of properties during 2023, acquiring a Home2Suites by Hilton and a Hampton Inn & Suites in York, Pennsylvania, and a dual-branded Home2 Suites by Hilton and Tru by Hilton in Easton, Pennsylvania.
The Hampton Inn & Suites, which opened in 2014, includes 100 guestrooms and suites, a meeting room, fitness center, indoor pool, and offers a free hotel breakfast.
The Home2Suites by Hilton opened in 2016. Featuring a fitness center and indoor pool, the hotel offers longer-stay options with expanded studio suites with refrigerators, cook-tops, dishwashers, and microwaves.
In December 2023, the Tru and Home2 Suites hotel was acquired and features a fitness center, indoor pool, outdoor fire pit and a grilling area. The hotel has 73 guestrooms with functional work spaces, and 76 spacious pet-friendly suites with kitchens and versatile sitting and work areas.
The acquisition of these three properties brings HHL’s total to 13, with 10 hotels in Pennsylvania and three in New Jersey.
These York hotels continue to outperform their competition, and both are ranked in the top 25% of their respective brand families for customer service. During 2023, the team completed exterior and interior redesigns and renovations.
Hampton Inn & Suites, York, Pennsylvania.
Home2Suites by Hilton, York, Pennsylvania.
The dual-branded Home2 Suites by Hilton and Tru by Hilton in Easton, Pennsylvania.
INDUSTRY LEADERSHIP
High Celebrates Achievements in Safety
On Wednesday, March 1, 2023, the High Environmental Health and Safety Team hosted its annual Safety Summit at the S. Dale High Leadership Center, Lancaster, Pennsylvania. The event recognized and celebrated Safety Circle Award winners who were selected based on outstanding safety performance for 2022, including: exceeding OSHA recordable and Day Away Case rate goals; exceeding their EHS Audit assessment goal; and achieving 100% or greater on their Drive to Zero Action Plan. Those achieving Safety Circle Award status were:
MANUFACTURING/CONSTRUCTION
High Construction Company, Lancaster, PA
High Steel Service Center LLC, Lancaster, PA
HOTELS/PROPERTIES
Barrcrest, Lancaster, PA l The Crossings, Lancaster, PA
Eastwood Village, Lancaster, PA l The Flats at Kennett, Kennett Square, PA
Greenfield, Lancaster, PA l Greenfield Estates, Lancaster, PA
Greenview Terrace, Lancaster, PA l Orchard Ridge, Pottstown, PA
The Reserve at Greenfield, Lancaster, PA
Rossmoyne Business Center, Mechanicsburg, PA l Village Green, Lancaster, PA
SpringHill Suites by Marriott-Allentown Bethlehem, Center Valley, PA
The High Executive Committee selected two Safety Circle Award recipients for President’s Safety Awards:
Manufacturing/Construction: High Steel Service Center
Hotels/Properties award: Greenfield Estates
Congratulations to the Safety Circle and President’s Safety Award winners. Your commitment to workplace safety is a key component of The High Philosophy and is vital to the High culture and the well-being of all coworkers. Thank you for working safely!
Mike Shirk with HSSC’s Rick Bennett, Tim Barna, Jason Miles, Linda Sams, and Kyle Splawn.
Mike Shirk, CEO of High companies, with Greenfield Estates’ Kevn Cummings, Megan Varano, and Ron Cariello.
INDUSTRY LEADERSHIP
Teamwork Earns Coworkers
Good Measure Grand Prize Awards
The Good Measure Award was established as a means of recognizing individual coworkers or teams who exemplify The High Philosophy by going above and beyond, whether in the daily responsibilities of their job or in their personal time supporting the community. The name “Good Measure” is a tribute to the company’s founder, Sanford High, who said, “Lay down a good weld and give good measure.”
For the 2022-2023 nominating period, 15 coworkers received GMAs for their commitment to The High Philosophy. The following two coworker teams were selected by High’s Executive Committee to receive Grand Prizes, which were awarded during the 2023 High Forum.
HIGH STEEL STRUCTURES LLC
Richard J. Fuhrman, Electronic/Mechanical Technician
Nigel Koppehele-Shaak, Electronic/Mechanical Technician
Barry L. Miller, Plant Engineer/Maintenance Manager
Nominator: Russel “Rusty” Wynegar
Submerged arc welding (SAW) is HSS’s primary welding process for steel girder fabrication. To eliminate steel structure failure, many controls have been put in place to ensure all welding processes meet industry code. To achieve this goal, HSS has worked with Miller Electric and Lincoln Electric over the past 15 years to satisfy calibration needs for HSS’s welding power sources. This required use of
Richard Fuhrman
Nigel Koppehele-Shaak
Barry Miller
INDUSTRY LEADERSHIP
sense leads which are delicate and, at times, cause maintenance and operator issues that result in lost production and inefficiencies.
This is where Richard, Nigel, and Barry stepped up to the plate to develop a circuit board that serves as a voltage divider. This new circuit board modifies the voltage feedback circuit, resulting in an accurate voltage display on the power source. When wired directly to the power source, the voltage divider eliminates the need for sense leads while reducing cycle time and removing a trip hazard posed by the cord
This innovative solution is so effective that Miller Electric asked permission to place this technology in new units. Richard, Nigel, and Barry pushed limits by thinking creatively and pioneering technology that propels the welding industry forward.
HIGH ASSOCIATES LTD.
Craig C. Cronenberg, Building Maintenance-Specialized Erik C. McCulloch, Marketing Representative
Alex Moleski, Building Maintenance-Specialized Jennifer M. Stump, Assistant Community Manager
Kathryn S. Sylvia, Community Manager
Stephen L. Walker, Leadperson Residential Maintenance
Nominator: Tina L. McGinnis
On February 25, 2023, an early morning fire broke out at Orchard Ridge. The balcony fire quickly spread throughout Building 4. As apartment residents were
Craig Cronenberg Erik McCulloch Alex Moleski
INDUSTRY LEADERSHIP
safely evacuated, firefighters arrived at the property and successfully prevented the fire from spreading to nearby buildings; however, 16-unit Building 4 was a total loss.
After opening the clubhouse to displaced residents, the Orchard Ridge Team began contacting local hotels to secure temporary housing for residents who did not have friends or family with whom they could stay. They also brought in the American Red Cross to assist families with essential items, including food, clothing, medicine, money, and other necessities.
Nominator Tina McGinnis witnessed the compassion they showed to residents in this tragic incident, as well as their diligent efforts in helping manage a chaotic scene. During the ensuing weeks, they worked to secure more permanent housing for residents, including placing them in the model unit and in other vacant units. Additionally, the team reached out to other residents, the community, and High coworkers to raise over $35,000 to assist impacted families. They rummaged through the site and packed up salvaged personal property for residents. Erik McCulloch also provided personal assistance to an 80-plus year-old resident who had no family support, even sitting with her in the evening and running errands.
Through hard work, dedication, and compassion, they built proven trustworthy relationships. By going above and beyond for displaced residents, Craig, Erik, Alex, Jenny, Kathryn, and Stephen built so much goodwill that all but two residents have moved back to Orchard Ridge.
2023-2024
The 2023-2024 Good Measure nominating period began on August 1, 2023, and continues through July 31, 2024. Nomination forms are available from HR Representatives who are happy to assist you with completing the form. If you know a coworker or group of coworkers who give Good Measure, nominate them for a Good Measure Award!
Don’t Delay! Nominate worthy coworkers today!
Jenny Stump
Kathryn Sylvia
Stephen Walker
INDUSTRY LEADERSHIP
They Give Good Measure
Danielle D. Bannon
Permit/Escort Coordinator, High Transit LLC
Nominator: Arthur W. Weaver
Danielle came to HT from High Concrete Group LLC. That experience has proven invaluable in enabling HT to manage HCG’s unique hauling needs and ordering permits to move these loads. Her expertise has energized coworkers through improved training tools and by creating an environment of innovation, as well as strengthening HT’s vendor relationships.
During her first 18 months with HT, Danielle:
• developed professional-grade permit manuals and HCG instructional manuals;
• built an estimating system for quoting HCG jobs;
• serves as a back-up for HT’s payroll function; and
• revived and maintains HT’s Facebook page using her photography skills to take job, load, truck driver, and escort driver photos, enhancing HT’s image and boosting coworker morale.
In addition to all of this, she is a pleasure to work with and regularly arrives with a smile and a funny story – and sometimes donuts!
“Danielle embraces each and every aspect of The High Philosophy,” said nominator Art Weaver. “She is always giving Good Measure!”
Mathew E. Birney
Senior Field Engineer, StructureCare
Nominator: Jonathan Shugg
At 5:00 a.m. on Sunday, January 22, 2023, Mat received an urgent call; Tidal Health’s parking garage had collapsed when an out-of-control vehicle crashed headlong into the second-floor spandrel of the 5-story parking deck. After making the 90-minute drive to Salisbury, Maryland, Mat was met by fire trucks, media, and members of Tidal’s executive healthcare team.
Mat took control, clearing the area of pedestrians, while others attended to the driver. He assessed the structural condition of the garage, evaluated the risk of further collapse, and provided clear direction on safely removing the remaining vehicles from the unstable area.
Mat and the StructureCare and High Concrete Group LLC teams embarked on a plan to restore the damage and to improve other sections of the garage. This eight-month endeavor was completed in only five months.
In the face of disaster, Mat’s knowledgeable and professional response was pivotal in instilling confidence in first responders and Tidal Health. His exceptional leadership left a lasting impact on Tidal Health and the community at large.
INDUSTRY LEADERSHIP
Thomas F. Clark
Senior Project Manager, High Associates Ltd.
Nominator: Kyle D. Popielarski
Tom was working with a long-time Greenfield tenant, Community Services Group (CSG), on a third-party project group home to be built on CSG’s own property. Along the way, it became evident that CSG needed professional assistance to get numerous government approvals required to move forward with the project.
Tom assisted them with obtaining storm water management approvals and worked closely with the project site engineers and Township Planner to ensure that all documents were completed. He also worked with the Lancaster County Conservation District to acquire a letter of approval, and area water and sewer authorities for new requirements and easement clarifications. During that time, he fielded comments from all agencies and made sure working documents were correct before submitting them for review by the township engineer, and then requested it be put on the agenda for the township Board of Supervisors’ meeting for conditional approval. Tom also coordinated with representatives from CSG, the site engineer and HAL Construction Services Team to attend the meeting.
For third-party projects, this work is not the responsibility of HAL Construction Services. Tom went above and beyond to help this non-profit agency, obtaining approvals in a cost-effective and timely manner, keeping the project on schedule, and delighting the customer.
Clinton R. Dowlin
Erection Supply Liaison, High Concrete Group
Nominator: William Adams
Job sites have lots of moving parts and sometimes those parts get damaged or are misplaced or lost. When that happens, it leads to urgent supply requests, expensive expedite fees, and work delays.
To help eliminate this problem, Clint devised a new delivery system for hardware parts to be transported and staged at the site. This wooden crate has the footprint of a standard skid and provides greater capacity by consolidating parts. Each crate features modular inserts that can be adjusted to accommodate various parts, and a lid that provides weather and physical protection during usage. Parts are clearly labeled, making identification fast and easy. At completion of a job, leftover parts can be returned in these crates to HCG. Each hardware crate has an expected useful life of 10 to 15 job site events.
Clint identified a need and innovated a tool that has improved job site conditions. This demonstrates his commitment to valuing customers and shows respect for coworkers who need these parts to complete the job.
INDUSTRY LEADERSHIP
P. Duane Haug
MEP Coordinator, High Construction Company
Nominator:
Gregory A. Spaulding
In late 2022 and early 2023, coworker turnover created challenges in completing the Ellis Phase 2 Apartments project in Newtown Square, Pennsylvania. This void of knowledge and leadership meant that many coworkers were called upon to pick up the pieces to bring this project to fruition. Duane owned that responsibility and was instrumental in making it happen.
Duane, who is a Mechanical/Electrical/Plumbing MEP Coordinator, typically oversees those areas of construction. For this project, he was asked to also lead oversight of the building’s life safety systems. Working 60-plus hour weeks over the course of several months, he pushed the project to the finish line and was able to achieve occupancy in early February 2023. Without Duane’s outstanding efforts and leadership, occupancy would most certainly have been delayed.
Shortly thereafter, the sprinkler system had to be taken off-line for 24 hours to facilitate a connection repair. Because the building was occupied and without an active sprinkler system, Duane volunteered to cover the overnight mandatory fire watch to keep the building and occupants safe.
Duane went the extra mile to complete the job and ensure its safety without additional compensation. This, combined with his dedication and hard work in other tasks and projects throughout the year, is the hallmark of Good Measure.
Ryan Zwickle
Project Superintendent, High Associates Ltd.
Nominator: Kyle D. Popielarski
While working on a high-profile project in Lancaster, Pennsylvania’s downtown, Ryan oversaw its on-time completion. The challenges were many: When multiple decorative panels arrived but did not meet High’s standards, they had to be re-manufactured. With the arrival of the new panels scheduled just one day before the new tenant had a scheduled photo shoot, the clock was ticking!
Ryan, who was away with his family for the weekend, came home on Saturday evening so he could oversee delivery and the correct installation of the decorative panels on Sunday. On Monday morning, the space was ready for the tenant’s shoot, enabling them to move forward with their website and advertising collateral.
This is one of many examples of how Ryan provides Good Measure. Others include:
• Coming in at 5:30 a.m. to clean a space for an 8:00 a.m. walk-through with a tenant.
INDUSTRY LEADERSHIP
• Taking tenant calls on a Sunday for a faulty HVAC switch on a new unit and scheduling a technician to repair the unit and provide clean-up.
• Staying late to complete a project outside of Greenfield to eliminate traveling out of the area the following day.
Ryan’s dedication to getting the job done, even outside of regular working hours, significantly contributes to the satisfaction of HAL’s tenants.
Coworker
Referral Program:
Good for High - Good for You!
The Coworker Referral Program is one of the most effective sources of hiring at High. Each High company has a referral program structure that allows coworkers to receive a minimum payout of $800 for referring a qualified applicant. The coworker and qualified applicant must both be in good standing throughout the entire payout structure. In 2023, approximately 266 coworkers met the eligibility requirements for the referral bonus.
LeKross Ortiz is a High Hotels Ltd. Maintenance Technician for the Residence Inn, Lancaster, Pennsylvania, who has already referred three coworkers. We asked LeKross about his experience with the referral program:
Why did you want to participate in the referral program?
For the money!
Would you suggest other High coworkers to take advantage of this program? Why?
Yes, I would advise coworkers to take advantage of this program! If you believe in the company you work for, why not take advantage of this and earn extra money?
What is something you plan to do or have already done with the referral prize?
I used the first referral bonus to take my wife to Salem, Massachusetts for our wedding anniversary! I plan to use the next bonus to help fund another trip!
What impact has the referral program had on you?
The extra income gave me the opportunity to do the things I wanted to do.
How did you sell High to your referrals?
I explain my experience of growth and opportunity at High; how I started in Laundry and was promoted to Maintenance Technician. I also speak highly of our benefits, such as 401K, medical, and dental.
There is no limit to the number of people you can refer. Why not get started today.
For more information on the Coworker Referral Program, contact your Human Resource Representative.
INDUSTRY LEADERSHIP
Look What’s Going on in Greenfield
There is a lot of activity happening in Greenfield as it grows to meet the needs of businesses and the community. These are just a few of the highlights from 2023:
Acquired Johnson & Johnson Property
J&J is a 149,000-square-foot manufacturing facility in Greenfield that sits on 22.1 acres. At the height of production, the facility employed approximately 150 people. The building’s features include high electrical capacity, a water purification system, a sewer pre-treatment facility, and nearly 20,000 square feet of office space. High Associates Ltd. is conducting a marketing campaign to attract a food processor or pharmaceutical company.
Greenfield North and New Industrial Buildings
High received an $11 million Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program grant from the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, which was designated for site infrastructure costs for the planned 600-unit residential community and industrial buildings 423 and 424.
Work covered by the funds included: grading; storm water management facilities; water, sewer, gas, and electrical connections; landscaping; site lighting; pedestrian paths; sidewalks; and stoning and paving portions of the site. The sitework was managed by High Construction Company and HAL.
Walnut Street Extension Opened
In October, High Real Estate Group LLC celebrated the opening of the Walnut Street Extension, a multi-modal transportation project aimed to alleviate traffic congestion and improve safety on a key highway corridor in Lancaster County. The project adds a 1.2-mile, two-lane roadway connecting Greenfield, a growing, mixed-use commercial and residential development, to U.S. Route 30 and the City of Lancaster.
INDUSTRY LEADERSHIP
Community Events
Greenfield offers complimentary events and programs for its tenants, residents, and students, as well as High coworkers and the general public, to enjoy. Each activity is based around one of four pillars which define who we are as a community; Education, Health and Wellness, Community, and Environmental.
In 2023, more than 150 events and programs were hosted with over 10,000 people attending.
Doubling Down on Good Measure: HSS Executes Two Emergency Bridge Projects During the Summer of 2023
During the Summer of 2023, High Steel Structures LLC took on two emergency bridge replacements; one for the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT), and the other for the New York State Department of Transportation (NYS DOT). Both jobs required the extraordinary efforts of HSS coworkers to meet the aggressive reopening schedules.
Cottman Avenue underpass of the I-95 Bridge in Downtown Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
On June 11, 2023, a gasoline tanker truck lost control on Cottman Avenue in downtown Philadelphia, crashing into one of the I-95 bridge abutments.
The closure of the ramp and eight lanes of traffic impacted 160,000 vehicles per day and demanded a rapid repair solution. PennDOT selected HSS for the job, knowing we could be counted on to deliver, even under this extraordinary schedule demand.
The configuration of the bridge, with crucially important interstate lanes
Pennsylvania Governer Josh Shapiro toured the HSS shop and thanked coworkers for a job well done.
INDUSTRY LEADERSHIP
crossing a less important ramp, lent itself to a three-stage solution:
• Use of temporary, high-tech foam glass gravel fill under the middle of the bridge to get that section of the bridge open with six narrow lanes. These lanes opened twelve days after the crash.
• With the center of the bridge now open, build the outside quarters using eight new steel plate girders.
• Next, move traffic to the outside lanes of the bridge, remove the fill from the center, and build the center of the new bridge using eight more steel plate girders.
When the first beam was ready, Pennsylvania’s Governor, Lieutenant Governor, and top PennDOT structures and materials engineers came to HSS in August –less than two months after the crash – to celebrate the cooperation that made this quick response possible. Mike Shirk, High CEO, welcomed these officials to the shop floor to observe fabrication and to meet with HSS coworkers.
Route 28N Bridge over Fishing Brook in upstate New York
On July 10, 2023, torrential rains led to a dam breach and causing the washout of the bridge. The NYS DOT called HSS the following day to discuss possible solutions and schedules. Although it usually takes at least two years to design and construct a new bridge, NYS DOT needed to re-open the new bridge before November 1, 2023 - the anticipated first freeze of the season.
Like the I-95 project, NYS DOT turned to a staged solution, first opening a temporary Acrow Bridge nearby, and then replacing the bridge with a new rolled beam structure. NYS DOT provided old bridge beams from their storage, which HSS cut to length and fabricated.
The bridge opened on October 27, 2023, proving HSS was up to the task.
Meeting the extraordinary demands of these and other emergency jobs requires coworkers to purchase materials, obtain approval for shop drawings and procedures, and space in the shop schedule to accommodate fabrication of bridge members. HSS and its coworkers were up to these challenges, proving time and again their commitment to bridge owners, the community, and to The High Philosophy!
High Honors
Joseph P. Connors…
…earned his CPA (Certified Public Accountant) license from the Pennsylvania State Board of Accountancy in February 2023. This accomplishment entailed the passing of four exams and completing experience requirement. Joe joined High Company LLC in 2018 and serves as the Group Controller.
Jason J. Schultz…
…was recognized in Central Penn Business Journal’s Forty Under 40 rankings. Selected by the editors/publisher of Central Penn Business Journal, honorees are selected based on professional accomplishments, community service, and
INDUSTRY LEADERSHIP
commitment to inspiring change. Jason joined High Hotels Ltd. in 2014 and serves as Area Director of Sales & Marketing – West Region.
Casey Spadaro…
…was honored with the Spirit of Hospitality Rising Star Award from the Pennsylvania Restaurant & Lodging Association (PRLA). Each year, the PRLA honors exceptional members of the hospitality industry for their leadership, commitment, and service to the industry and community. Casey joined High Hotels Ltd. in 2018 and serves as Assistant General Manager at its TownePlace Suites in Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania.
High Awards
High Concrete Group LLC
...received three national awards for precast concrete design and quality in the Precast/Prestressed Concrete Institute (PCI) 2023 Design Awards.
• Best Schools K-12 Building: Public School 667, Brooklyn, New York.
• Best All-Precast Concrete Parking Structure: ChristianaCare Wilmington Visitors Parking Garage, Wilmington, Delaware.
• Theater Structure Honorable Mention: The John and Joan Mullen Center for the Performing Arts at Villa Nova University, Villa Nova, Pennsylvania.
High Associates Ltd.
...residential communities were honored by the Pennsylvania Apartment Association with the following awards:
• Barrcrest
First Place: Leasing, Maintenance, and Overall Excellence
• Bentley Ridge
First Place: Maintenance and Overall Excellence
• The Crossings
Ranked #6 in the Top Ten Highest Scores
First Place: Leasing, Maintenance, and Overall Excellence
• Greenfield Estates
First Place: Leasing
Second Place: Overall Excellence
• The Reserve at Greenfield
First Place: Leasing and Maintenance
Second Place: Overall Excellence
• Village Green
Ranked #1 in the Top Ten Highest Scores
First Place: Leasing and Maintenance
Second Place: Overall Excellence
• Greenview Terrace
First Place: Maintenance
• The Flats at Kennett
First Place: Leasing and Maintenance
Second Place: Overall Excellence
ENVIRONMENTAL STEWARDSHIP
HSS Plant Exceeds Water Authority’s Stormwater Requirements
In 2022, the Water Authority for the City of Williamsport, Pennsylvania, established a program and assessed fees on residents and businesses to address the costs of maintaining the City’s stormwater system and meet federal requirements. The program also included a policy that allowed companies to reduce the annual fee if stormwater management practices were currently in place or if the company implemented new practices. To assist in meeting goals of the Water Authority, High Steel Structures LLC’s Williamsport Team identified several best management practices that were currently in place, and enhanced several others.
Spraying settles the dust and mitigates runoff.
One improvement implemented at the HSS Williamsport facility was to add filters to stormwater drains. These fabric filters collect sediment that is picked up by the rain or snowmelt before it enters the site’s stormwater collection system.
Secondly, the facility uses a man-made product to control the dust created from driving on the stone aisles. This greatly reduced the amount of dust created, as well as the amount of dust and sediment entering stormwater.
Thirdly, stormwater is directed to a small waterway on the south side of the Plant. The water flows over the vegetation in the waterway which acts as another filter to further reduce the number of pollutants that would otherwise enter the larger streams and rivers.
HSS Williamsport monitors its stormwater every six months.
Implementation of these tools has resulted in minimal pollutants being discharged to the local waterways, and a reduction in the annual fee of approximately 50%. This is a great example of having the proper management tools in place and exceeding the requirements of the area’s Water Authority, making it a win for the Water Authority of the City of Williamsport, HSS and the environment.
Vegetation in the waterway filters stormwater runoff.
COMMUNITY COMMITMENT
2023 United Way Campaign: Supporting a Higher Purpose
“We are on this earth for a purpose that is larger than our own interests. That purpose is to strive to make the world a better place…beginning in our community.” – S. Dale High
High coworkers and retirees continue to make our community a better place to live, work, and play year after year through their generous support of the United Way. The 2023 campaign was a huge success, proving that together we can Live United and support a Higher purpose.
A special thank you to Lindsay McGuire and the campaign coordinators who volunteered their time and talents, and to coworkers and retirees who contributed to this year’s campaign. Together, we contributed a total of $227,010 to support the communities in which we live and work!
High Associates Ltd.
High Company LLC
High Concrete Group LLC
High Construction Company
High Environmental Health & Safety Consulting Ltd.
High Hotels Ltd.
High Steel Service Center LLC
High Steel Structures LLC
High Structural Erectors LLC
High Transit LLC
High Retirees and Others
High coworkers also participated in United Way’s Day of Caring, coming together for a Fall cleanup of Shreiners Cemetery, Lancaster, Pennsylvania. Coworkers raked, trimmed, and gathered debris in preparation for an event. The cemetery is the resting place of famed American politician and abolitionist, Thaddeus Stevens.
Greenfield Architects Ltd.
High Foundation’s Partnership Aims to Inspire STEM Exploration
To mark the conclusion of a multi-year Elevate Curiosity capital campaign that doubled the size of its exhibit hall, Lancaster Science Factory (LSF) was looking to make good use of its 28 feet of vertical air space. They wanted a large, high impact showpiece that would be utterly unforgettable. Making the connection to STEM, they commissioned a design that was inspired by the engineering principles of bridges. Earlier 2023, LSF celebrated the unveiling of this new STEM-focused exhibit—the High Foundation Sky Bridge.
Barbara Pallan, LSF Board Member and Elevate Curiosity Campaign Co-Chair; Ronnie Medlock, LSF Board Vice President; Emily Landis, Former LSF Executive Director; Rich Young, LSF Board President; Dale High; Nate Scott, LSF Board Member and Elevate Curiosity Campaign Co-Chair; Robin Stauffer; Suzanne High; and Rob Reed, LSF Development Director.
Ronnie Medlock, Vice President of Technical Services for High Steel Structures LLC, serves on the Board of Directors of LSF and was excited to be an integral part of the planning process.
High Foundation, an ongoing partner with LSF, was proud to be the lead sponsor for this incredible project.
“At High, we have a commitment to continued curiosity and we could not be more excited to be here to unveil this epic interpretation of a bridge that will bring people to Lancaster from all over and hopefully inspire young minds to see the world from new and exciting angles,” said Robin Stauffer, High Foundation Executive Director.
The Sky Bridge is a true feat of engineering. Giant steel beams are suspended from the ceiling and don’t touch the ground. The steel beams support 35 climbable panels that can each hold over 900 pounds and are surrounded by mesh for safety. Each panel has a holographic finish on the bottom that reflects light and creates rainbow colors. The panel tops feature aerial photographs from around the world and Lancaster County. Focused on STEM play and exploration, it is quite literally a bridge to learning.
High Foundation looks forward to impacting education through its continued partnership with Lancaster Science Factory as it helps students pursue STEM interests and inspires them to confidently explore the world.
High Foundation Awards 2023 Scholarships
In June 2023, High Foundation presented scholarship awards to Christian Mahonski of Springboro, Ohio, and Casey Tippett of Lancaster, Pennsylvania. Each was awarded $20,000 scholarships, which provide $5,000 per year for four years.
High Foundation values education and has been investing in the children of High
COMMUNITY COMMITMENT
coworkers for the past 40 years, encouraging secondary education in the form of college or trade school. A luncheon was hosted to bring together parents, students, and the High Foundation Board to honor the students and congratulate them on their accomplishments.
Robin Stauffer, the Foundation’s Executive Director, led the event with opening remarks. She celebrated Christian and Casey for their many accomplishments and noted that both students have chosen to embody the High value of servant leadership through their volunteer work and community involvement.
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Christian Mahonski is the son of Matt Mahonski, Midwest General Manager with StructureCare, who joined High companies in 2011. Christian attended Springboro High School where he participated in Varsity Soccer all four years, including serving as a certified soccer referee. He was a member of the National Honor Society as a Junior and Senior, and is a member of the Golf and Ski Clubs. Christian’s community service includes working as a warehouse worker at Bogg Ministries, serving as a team leader of an engineering project for a disabled student, and participating as a student member of Positive Behavioral Interventions and Support. Christian plans to pursue a degree in Aerospace Engineering from Ohio State University.
Casey Tippett is the son of Beth Tippett, Manager of HR Solutions with High Company LLC, who joined High companies in 2005. Casey attended Donegal High School where he served as Team Captain of the Football team all four years, was a member of the National Honor Society as a Junior and Senior, and participated in Future Business Leaders of America as a Senior. Casey’s community service includes Community Breakfast and Little Kid Football Training as a Senior, and park cleanup in grades 10 and 11. Casey plans to pursue a degree in Mechanical Engineering from Penn State University Harrisburg.
Beth, Casey, Tonya, and James Tippett. Matt, Christian, and Emily Mahonski.
View a playlist of videos highlighting our 2023 accomplishments!
