Our apologies for the long delay in this latest newsletter. It doesn’t feel like it, but it has been a year since the last issue; it seems as though time always gets away from us when we are busy. As you read this newsletter, you will see it is more of a “Year in Review.” What a year it has been! As I reviewed the draft of the newsletter, I felt very proud of all we have accomplished together over the past 12 months.
Summer is almost here, bringing with it the start of many exciting projects while others continue to progress. We have the most significant backlog in our history, and the majority of it is with the same customers we have been building with for decades. Staying true to living and conducting our business by our Core Values proves we continue to sustain our growth and success by putting customers first. Too many contractors only focus on their bottom line, sometimes at the expense of their customers. Our belief that the customer comes first, and their success and happiness will ultimately make us profitable and successful, is why we excel and why our backlog is 100% repeat customers or negotiated work through referral. It takes all of us to demonstrate these values to our customers every day, and I thank you for that.
One of our focuses for 2025 is a renewed focus on training and continuing education for all team members. We have established a bi-weekly calendar for various training topics over the next several months. Some training will be mandatory for certain team members, while other topics will be voluntary. If you see a topic that you would like to participate in, please let us know. If there is something important to you that is not in the schedule and you think it could be something others would be interested in, please don’t be afraid to mention it to one of the senior team members.
Thank you for your continued dedication to our companies and to our customers. Please be safe this summer and I look forward to seeing you soon.
with Vadim Potorac Network administrator
Intelligence (AI)
think and learn like humans. This includes the development of algorithms and computer programs capable of performing tasks that typically require human intelligence, such as recognizing speech, understanding natural language, making decisions, and playing games.
What makes AI so powerful is its speed and efficiency. It can analyze information at an exponentially faster rate than any human. The concept of AI is not new. This project has been in development for decades. The reason we are hearing so much about it now is that, for the first time, everyone has the opportunity to engage with and witness the true functionality
WRONG ANSWERS
As for the data or answers AI provides, the solutions can be incorrect. AI often uses public information from the Internet, and its answers can be influenced by the biases of its developers. While traditional search engines aim to provide the "best" or most accurate answers to your queries, AI solutions are often designed to deliver more humanlike responses. Which is better depends on what you are attempting to achieve.
There are many ways to experience AI. ChatGPT, an online-powered AI chatbot, is one of the first publicly available solutions. It was developed to use natural language processing to engage in human-like conversations, answer questions, and generate various written content. However, online conversations are just the beginning of what AI can do. There are now AI solutions that can create a video of a person teaching a class in any language, analyze health records and quickly determine who most likely has cancer, create news articles or essays, generate images for children’s books, or create code for new computer programs. While AI is not something to fear, it does pose some dangers.
DANGERS OF ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE
RECREATING YOU
AI solutions can take a recording of a person’s voice and then use it to create real-time audio that sounds just like you, saying whatever it wants to impersonate you. The victim could be anyone, including your coworkers, bank, or a family member. AI can also do this with pictures or video. Sometimes called Deep Fakes, an AI solution can take an existing picture or video of you and use it to recreate entirely new pictures or videos, appearing to show you doing things that you never did
NOT EQUAL
With AI being the latest trending technology, numerous startups are offering a variety of AI services. Many of these require personal information or credit card details to access a trial period. It’s important to exercise caution, as not all AI services can be trusted. Make sure to conduct thorough research before signing up for any AI service.
YOUR PRIVACY
Whenever using or interacting with an AI system, such as when chatting online with ChatGPT, be aware that any information you enter into the system can not only be processed by it but also retained and used to give answers to others. This means if you enter any personal information about yourself or any confidential information from work, that information will be stored and potentially shared with or sold to others. Do not share or enter sensitive, personal, or confidential information at work.
Artificial Intelligence is still very much in its infancy, similar to where the Internet was twenty to thirty years ago. While we can anticipate rapid evolution and adoption of AI, predicting its impact remains challenging. Just be aware that these capabilities are out there, and when using AI, be very careful what information you enter and share.
with GARY THURSTON CEO
The estimating team has been busy. In 2024, we estimated a total of 100 projects with a combined value of $208,221,685. We successfully secured 55% of these projects, amounting to $78,951,132. These projects contributed to our existing backlog, with the primary project being the Evolution at Turning Stone.
Jeremy Thurston
We have been estimating various projects, which include the construction of new dormitories for Syracuse University (SU), an expansion of Byrne's Cortlandville plant, and a warehouse addition for Byrne's Sonbyrne Sales in Auburn. Additionally, we are working on the renovation of the first floor of Oswego Hospital, preparing several budgets for projects at Auburn Hospital, and undertaking renovations of Simms and Link Halls at SU. Furthermore, we are involved in the historic renovation of two buildings at Fayette Park in Syracuse.
We welcomed Zack Linderman to the estimating department. He is working with Jeff Uryniak to learn the ways and best practices of estimating.
We’ve experimented with AI and what benefits that software can provide in both speed and accuracy.
with Stu
Director of Safety
Ten years ago, this April, I retired after a 35-year career in emergency service. After a couple of years, I
received an invitation from Gary Thurston to stop by for a cup of coffee at our old offices on Erie Blvd. At that time, I had no idea that a visit would lead to a life-changing opportunity. During that stop and subsequent visits, we discussed the similarities between the Fire Service and the Construction industry. Both groups consisted of motivated individuals working in potentially dangerous situations, facing challenges from both the environment and time. The biggest difference I could find was that Hayner Hoyt built buildings and all too often I built parking lots.
Eventually, Gary and Jeremy extended an offer for me to join the Hayner Hoyt team to refresh the Safety Program. At that time, the company safety program was well-established and successful. My role would be to bring outside experiences and build upon that success.
I learned a lot over the next 7+ years. I met some incredibly talented and motivated individuals and played a small part in several incredible projects. While most folks were sidelined for the pandemic, we were able to move forward and complete necessary projects like Health Care facilities and the Dome. All the while, maintaining an enviable safety record. Together, we learned and received new tools and new techniques to improve safety. A tradition that continues today. Adapting and improving is part of our business DNA.
Now it is time for another change. By the time you see this, I will have retired from Hayner Hoyt. It is my pleasure to extend my congratulations to Tim Cushman. Recently promoted as the new Director of Safety for the Hayner Hoyt Companies, Tim will bring “Fresh Eyes” to the position I have enjoyed for the last 7+ years.
I’ve known Tim for over 20 years. Tim was once a Fire Chief running the Syracuse Airport. From our first work together, I respected Cushman for his knowledge and steady-as-hegoes demeanor. No matter the situation, Tim always remained calm. In the fire service, we would refer to someone like that as “a Duck” meaning while he appeared calm, below the surface he was paddling furiously to get to where he was going. A trait we admired. I predict Tim is going to do great things. He will bring fresh eyes and fresh ideas to improve your everyday safety.
As they say; Life is like a box of Chocolates, you never know what’s inside. I never thought I would be here at Hayner Hoyt, nor had ever thought of writing a final article. As I look back over a career of over 42 years of watching out for others, I realize that while there have been some bumps and bruises along the way, I never had a person suffer a serious injury. As the Cowboys say “I’ve had a good run”. As you read this, I’m probably having a cup of coffee…I’ll be thinking of you.
Be Safe, Stu
with Joyce Dennington Director of Human Resources
Congratulations! We are excited to announce that we have made the 2025 list of the Best Companies to Work for in New York for the 18th consecutive year. We were ranked 5 among 22 other mid-sized companies across the state. This annual competition benefits us in two main ways: (1) the employee feedback we gather drives positive changes within the company, and (2) our annual rankings enhance our recruiting efforts. Plus, we enjoy the friendly competition for bragging rights!
As we approach Spring and Summer, we have new interns who joined us to work full-time from May through August. We offer internships to anyone interested in the construction industry or carpentry trade. This includes high school students aged 18 and older, students in trade schools or certificate programs such as BOCES, OCC, or MVCC, and college students pursuing degrees. Internships provide students with the opportunity to apply what they’ve learned in the classroom to real-world situations and help maintain a pipeline of future employees for our companies. Employee referrals continue to be our best source for new hires, so if you know anyone interested in an internship, please feel free to share my contact information with them. Thank you!
Despite rising healthcare expenses, there is some positive news to report. Our collective efforts to transition from one pharmacy benefit manager (PBM) to another in January have resulted in lower pharmacy costs. A special shout-out goes to those who transferred their monthly prescriptions to a 90-day mail order and enrolled in a Connect 360 program, which has provided additional savings for both you and the company! I look forward to sharing more details at the annual company meeting in October/November.
May is Mental Health Awareness Month, but it’s important to remember that mental health support is available year-round. Employees and anyone living in your household are eligible for free counseling sessions through our Employee Assistance Program, which is managed by Crouse HelpPeople (help people-eap.org) or at 315-470-7447. Additionally, employees and dependents covered by UMR insurance can access 24/7 virtual care through Teladoc, which offers mental health counseling with $0 copays.
Please don’t hesitate to contact me or Julie if you have questions.
Current projects we are working on include: T-Mobile, Rome Hospital, Mayo Building, DBS Excelsus, Lockheed Martin, Hamilton Hospital, and Rome Health. Looking ahead, we have upcoming projects at: Sims Hall, Auburn Hospital, Pittsford, DGTI’s Canandaigua, Hamilton College, Northeast College, and Seneca Falls.
Wishing everyone a safe and busy spring.
PROMOTIONS
Spring is here after a long, snowy, and cold winter. Since our last newsletter, most of the jobs have been succesfully completed! with kevin parkhurst vice president OF OPERATIONS Andy Stoffle
Superintendent Bob Young
Engineer Braylen Taylor
Rossi
Coss
Jamerson
WELCOME TO THE TEAM
HAYNER HOYT
Project Manager Stephen Proietta
Thomas Pape
Asst. Project Manager Jacquelyn Scibior William Hilliard
Sr. Superintendent
Delap
Lostracco
Myers
Asst. Superintendent
Abdallah Field Engineer James Lanier Robert Ottaviano Erica Sheaffer Christian Rossi Mikey Porter Oliver Donovan
The 10,000 sq ft renovation of the All About Me Child Care Center at Symphony Place created a nurturing and innovative environment for young children. The new facility includes five infant rooms, five toddler rooms, and two Pre-K rooms. Additionally, there's a new kitchen/pantry area, a staff break room, and a spacious, inclusive gym that caters to the diverse needs of the children. This project is a significant milestone, marking the first African-American-owned daycare downtown.
The second phase of the Lally Athletics Complex consisted of a 76,500 square foot expansion, which included a new football operations center. This center features coaches' offices, meeting and film rooms, locker rooms, and training facilities. The existing weight training center was updated to complement this new facility. Additionally, the former football wing will be renovated to support Olympic sports, providing dedicated offices, locker rooms, lounges, and a cafeteria.
and
from a former gas station. As a
this is our fourth store for the Nation, featuring a complete overhaul with custom millwork and highquality finishes.
The renovation upgraded the Dome by replacing old aluminum seats with over 43,000 new wider, flip-up options for better access and comfort. It also added a state-of-the-art smoke evacuation system, modernizing the 45-year-old facility and enhancing the spectator experience. JMA WIRELESS DOME SEAT REPLACEMENT SYRACUSE UNIVERSITY
CLOCKTOWER CAFE CROUSE HEALTH
Crouse's Clocktower Café underwent a 6,000 sq ft renovation in 4.5 months, updating its facilities after decades. The project included extensive demolition and the installation of new mechanical systems, modern lighting, high-quality finishes, a new kitchen and new cafeteria seating to enhance the dining experience for hospital staff, patients, and guests. Our team effectively maintained kitchen operations during renovations by working nights and off-hours.
We converted a condemned parking garage into 60,000 square feet of additional clinical space for the Physicians' Office Building, preserving the 45,000-square-foot office building above. This project addressed various challenges while maintaining normal business operations on the upper floors. Additionally, we will manage the interior buildout of a new women’s services department with labor and delivery rooms, a NICU, and C-section rooms.
RAPID EVALUATION UNIT CROUSE HEALTH
The Rapid Evaluation Unit (REU) renovation at Crouse Health's Pomeroy Emergency Services Department included a new state-ofthe-art weapons detection system and a redesigned open floor plan to improve safety and visibility. The expansion streamlines processes, allocates staff to lower acuity cases, prevents overcrowding and improves patient satisfaction.
MARY C. WINDER COMMUNITY CENTER ONEIDA INDIAN NATION
Named after Native American activist Mary Cornelius Winder, the 90,000-square-foot Community Center in Oneida, NY, serves the community with sports, recreation, and cultural resources. It features an atrium with an eagle feather-shaped skylight and a staircase inspired by the Haudenosaunee Creation Story. Essential amenities include a lacrosse field, walking/running track, four-lap pool with handicap access, full-sized basketball court, fitness and dance rooms, library, cafeteria, multi-purpose event room, classrooms, commercial kitchens, and stone fireplaces. This center blends cultural heritage with modern amenities, providing a welcoming space for the Oneida Indian Nation community.
We are proud to announce that the Mary C. Winder Community Center in Oneida, NY has received the prestigious Jeffrey J. Zogg Build New York Award. This recognition highlights exceptional management, creativity, and innovation from the entire project team, including the contractor, project owner, architect, subcontractors, and suppliers. We extend our gratitude to the Oneida Indian Nation for their vision in creating this remarkable facility. Congratulations to everyone involved in bringing this project to life!
The 50,000 sq ft expansion of Rome Health includes a new entrance, a three-story addition with four operating rooms, two procedure rooms, and staff areas. It involves demolition, structural upgrades, and improvements to mechanical and electrical systems, along with site enhancements like stairs, ramps, and landscaping.
CHIMES SYRACUSE, LLC
Scheduled for a summer 2025 completion, we are once again doubling the size of the gaming floor, adding a new fullservice sit-down restaurant, and we are adding a 100-key hotel, all while the existing property experiences zero interruptions to guest services.
This project involves the renovation of floors 4 to 8 at 100 Sims Drive. Once completed, it will feature modern office spaces, conference rooms, and dry lab workspaces, along with the construction of two mechanical rooms. Additionally, the project includes the replacement of exterior windows and the upgrade of one elevator. Construction is taking place while the first and second floors of the building remain occupied.
