Fall 2008 Publication of ASSOCIATED Builders and Contractors of Michigan
SPECIAL 2008 ELECTION ISSUE
THE ISSUES T H E C A N D I D AT E S T H E S TA K E S
a l so : T H E
EMPLOYEE FREE CHOICE ACT: A T H R E AT T O Y O U R B U S I N E S S
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ON NOVEMBER 4
TH TH
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Associated Builders and Contractors of
Michigan
Contents
SPECIAL 2008 ELECTION ISSUE Vol.2, Issue 3
5 Executive Perspective
6 ABC MEMBER JOE HAVEMAN HEADING TO STATE HOUSE Western Michigan member, Joe Haveman, is running as a
candidate to be the next 90th District to the State House.
representative
from
the
8 MICHIGAN’S TWO MOST IMPORTANT CONGRESSIONAL RACES Two of the most important and most hotly contested races
for Congress in the 2008 election nationwide are right here in Michigan – the Michigan 7th and 9th Congressional Districts.
11 FOR PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES: SENATOR JOHN MCCAIN The ABC of Michigan Board has endorsed Sen. John McCain
for President of the United States. John McCain and Sarah Palin are the only candidates ABC can count on to help move our country, state and industry forward.
12 THE 2008 ABC OF MICHIGAN VOTERS GUIDE
Covers races for U.S. Senate, Michigan State House of Representatives, the crucial race for Chief Justice of the Michigan Supreme Court, MSU Board of Trustees and other important Congressional races.
14 THE EMPLOYEE FREE CHOICE ACT Why “card check” is the single largest threat to your
business and your employees.
Page 6
One of our own: ABC Member Joe Haveman campaigns for Representative in District 90.
23 advertisers index
SPOTLIGHT oN MEMBERs
around the state
Page 16
Page 18
Recognition and Awards won by Michigan ABC members
Chapter News, Events, Milestones and Information
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EXECUTIVE PERSPECTIVE ASSOCIATED BUILDERS and CONTRACTORS OF MICHIGAN
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Dan Kozakiewicz - Chairman Three Rivers Corporation - Saginaw Valley Chapter John Parish - Vice Chairman Parish Corporation - Central MI Chapter David Sheffield - Secretary/Treasurer Onslow-Sheffield, Inc. - Southeastern MI Chapter Jim Struble - Past Chairman RCI Electric - Southeastern MI Chapter Bill Buyak Capital Steel - Central MI Chapter Jim Cripps Cripps Fontaine Exc. - Western MI Chapter Richard Dvorak Answer Heating & Cooling - Saginaw Valley Chapter Gary Hengesbach Westphalia Builders - Central MI Chapter Rod Kloha Circle “K” Service, Inc. - Saginaw Valley Chapter Aileen Leipprandt Smith, Haughey, Rice & Roegge - Western MI Chapter Bill Molnar Wm. Molnar Roofing Co., - Southeastern MI Chapter Dave Mollitor Consolidated Electrical - Western MI Chapter Fred Pylman P & K Steel - Western MI Chapter Jack VandeGuchte Sobie Company, Inc. - Western MI Chapter Dan Welch Welch Tile & Marble - Western MI Chapter Michigan Merit Contributors
To the relief of many, the upcoming election will soon be over and the country will seemingly return to a quieter one as things get back to normal. Indeed, this has been a long election, but if ABC members decide to sit this election out the prevailing mindset for Merit Shop construction may be far from one of relief. This election represents one of the most important turning points in American history. For our country, state and businesses there is much at stake. From the dangerous so-called “Employee Free Choice Act” to expanded utilization of union-only project labor agreements, to frivolous prevailing wage laws aimed at trapping merit shop contractors, to more business taxes, there are a great many issues that ABC members and the construction industry in general cannot choose to ignore. Depending on the outcome of the November elections all these issues will play out in either one direction or the other. As industry leaders it is incumbent upon ABC and ABC members to be engaged in the political process to ensure the very best for our future. ABC has long embraced the election year motto of “Get into politics or get out of business.” This has never been truer than it is in 2008. From the State House to the White House the issues, the candidates and the stakes are distinct and definite. This special edition of Michigan Merit takes us through the most important races at the state and national levels. It is designed to provide readers with information based on an analysis of hundreds of questions placed to candidates throughout the state, meetings with countless candidates and feedback from ABC members all across Michigan.
Publisher - Christopher Fisher Managing Editor - Mary Boardway, CAE Editing & Advertising: Public Relations Enterprises Printing: BRD Printing, Inc. Art Direction: Connection Graphics, LLC
I hope you will find this edition of Michigan Merit to be informative and helpful as the November 4th election nears. And here’s to a November 5th where we can all breathe a sigh of relief! H
Michigan Merit (ISSN# 1938-9051) is the official publication of Associated Builders and Contractors Inc. of Michigan (ABC of Michigan) and is published quarterly at 120 N. Washington Sq, Suite 805, Lansing, MI 48933, (517) 853-2545. Please direct all inquiries to the previous address. Articles written by outside authors do not necessarily reflect the views of Associated Builders and Contractors Inc. of Michigan. ABC of Michigan reserves the right to reject or edit all material submitted for publication. The appearance of an advertisement in Michigan Merit does not constitute endorsement of the advertiser, its products or services, nor do Michigan Merit or Associated Builders and Contractors Inc. of Michigan guarantee or warrant any claims or offers made by the advertisers.
Yours for the Merit Shop,
Permission to reprint in whole or in part is hereby granted, provided the following credit line is used: “Reprinted by permission from Michigan Merit, a publication of Associated Builders and Contractors Inc. of Michigan.”
Chris Fisher President Associated Builders & Contractors of Michigan 120 N. Washington Square, Suite 805 Lansing, MI 48933 PH: 517-853-2545 • FX: 517-853-2546 • Web: www.abcmi.com
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FEATURE Article
ABC Member Joe Haveman Heading to State House
While he is running as a candidate to be the next state
representative from the 90th House of Representatives District, ABC of Michigan member and Republican candidate for the Michigan Legislature, Joe Haveman, believes that real power still rests at the local level.
Haveman campaigns door to door in District #90
“As a former elected official at both the city and county levels, I am a strong proponent of local control. I believe that in recent years state government has gotten into the bad habit of micromanaging issues that should be the responsibility of local elected officials,” Haveman emphasized. “Government is most effective at the local level, and I support efforts to further empower local government. Haveman’s views have been shaped by his many years in the construction industry, where he works as director of marketing, sales and business development at GDK Construction in Holland. He has been part of a local business that has been a contributor to the growth of the Holland community that he calls home.
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“As a native of West Michigan, I hold dear the values that built our area communities. Values based on faith in God, hard work, and charity to others, have allowed West Michigan to grow economically while remaining one of the best places in this country to live, work and raise a family,” he said. “It has been my lifelong dream to serve in public office. I’ve actually considered it for years, but being close to home while my children were young was important.” Prior to joining GDK, Haveman served as executive director of the Holland Home Builders Association for 11 years. He has a bachelor’s degree from Ferris State University. Chuck Geenen, a partner of GDK, outlined his commitment to the community. “Joe has been a leader and volunteer of many service groups and local government positions which gives him the experience to be a state representative and hit the ground running for our district,” Geenen explained. “He has developed relationships with many people throughout our community and state which will allow him to communicate our needs and the direction the state government should be moving as well as the changes needed to help Michigan.” Haveman grew “Joe knows the construction industry. up observing his He was brought up in it….and he father run a small has been involved with building and family electrical the construction industry his entire business. “Although career, so he knows what makes the I didn’t follow in his industry tick.” profession, I learned – Doug DeKock, from my parents GDK Construction. other lessons that were far more important. My parents believed and instilled in me that giving time and resources back to our community was the right and ethical thing to do,” he noted.
Getting into Public Service At Ferris State, Haveman admits that he was bitten by the public service bug and pursued a course of study in public administration. “I immediately gravitated toward public service upon graduation to build upon my college experience and out of a deep desire to contribute to the city and county I call home.” Haveman is a former member of the Holland City Council and Ottawa County Commission where he learned how public administration works in the real world. “While serving in those positions, I’m thankful that I remained fully employed in the private sector. It is that balance of government service experience and business perspective that I wish to bring to Lansing.” “I believe that I have the experience to continue the quality representation that the 90th district has enjoyed, and will attempt to lead in a non-partisan spirit while staying true to both my convictions and my constituents,” he emphasized. “We need leadership that is more concerned with its citizens and less with its political parties and special interests.”
Meeting the Challenges According to Haveman, Michigan’s economy is in a single state recession. “The unemployment levels are continuously rising in our state while they fall everywhere else. The tax burden on the citizens of Michigan is getting higher and higher. I believe that the best way to beat a recession is for government to let citizens keep as much of their hard earned money as possible.” He emphasized that “We need leadership that is more the state’s economy concerned with its citizens and less is clearly the greatest with its political parties and special interests.” challenge and admits – Joe Haveman there is no quick fix, even though some of the solutions have begun. “Reinventing our economy toward new industries is part of that solution. Michigan must fix its tax structure and the regulatory barriers that cripple our competitiveness in comparison to other states.”
Joe Haveman on the campaign trail
Knowing how to get the job done is what the other partner at GDK, Doug DeKock, said about Haveman. “Joe knows the construction industry. He was brought up in it. His dad was an electrician and his brothers still are, and he has been involved with building and the construction industry his entire career, so he knows what makes the industry tick,” DeKock explained. “Joe knows the importance of economic growth and a good business climate in order to attract new industry and new employers to our state. He is committed to fixing the disincentive that the Michigan Business Tax (MBT) has on many industries.” Drawing on his construction and real estate background, Haveman explained that many small business leaders in the industry either don’t have the time or the interest to deal with matters of politics or public policy. “Unfortunately, our industry cannot simply rely on our associations and political action committees to do everything for them. It is critical that members get to know their lawmakers personally to keep industry issues at the forefront.” He stressed that having a personal relationship with your state lawmaker is important. “I know I cannot be in touch with every resident in my district or even every ABC member in my district. It will be helpful to receive a letter, e-mail or phone call if an industry issue needs attention. But it will be even more effective if I can put a name or face to an issue,” Haveman concluded. H www.abcmi.com
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Michigan’s Two Most Important Congressional Races
Two of the most important and most hotly contested races for Congress in the 2008 election nationwide are right here in Michigan —
the Michigan 7th Congressional District where ABC of Michigan has endorsed the re-election of Congressman Tim Walberg and the Michigan 9th Congressional District where ABC has endorsed incumbent Congressman Joe Knollenberg. ABC members in Michigan are very fortunate that a majority of our state’s congressional delegation are friends of ABC. However, that balance of power could easily change if we don’t do our part to make a difference. Congressmen Walberg and Knollenberg stand with ABC members and ardently support the free enterprise philosophy of the Merit Shop. They are the ONLY candidates in their races who stand with ABC members on issues like project labor agreements, taxes, Davis Bacon, union card check organizing and more.
More About Congressman Joe Knollenberg A small business owner, PTA president, homeowner, association president, and parish leader, Congressman Joe Knollenberg has been a citizen leader in Oakland County for the better part of three decades. Elected to Congress in 1992, Knollenberg is the ranking member on the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Transportation and Housing and Urban Development. In this role, Knollenberg utilizes his stature in Congress to fight for Oakland County’s fair share of federal money for local road projects and other priorities. Open a newspaper on any given day and you’ll read about how Joe is fighting to protect our jobs and improve our economy. He is a strong supporter of health care reforms that will reduce costs for small businesses and make it easier for them to offer insurance to their workers. Knollenberg has also championed legislation to provide tax credits to small businesses that create new jobs. And he has worked to reduce the cost of regulations and litigation on businesses. He has voted to provide relief from the death tax to family-owned businesses. And he voted for lower income taxes. A graduate of Eastern Illinois University, Knollenberg served in the Army before launching his business career. He and his wife, Sandie, have been married for 45 years and have lived in Oakland County for 40 years. They have two sons, Marty and Steve, who also reside in Oakland County. Marty Knollenberg represents Troy and Clawson in the Michigan Legislature. H
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More About Congressman Tim Walberg Tim Walberg is a proven leader who has worked tirelessly to grow Michigan’s economy and create goodpaying jobs during his first term in Congress. Taking his common sense values to Washington, D.C., Tim is standing up against the status quo. Tim has voted against every tax increase proposed in the House and is the leading voice in Congress to stop a recently proposed $683 billion tax increase. Tim has supported numerous measures to lower gas prices, including increasing the supply of American energy by allowing environmentally sound oil and natural gas exploration, providing incentives for alternative energy sources, and building refineries and new carbon-free nuclear power plants. He is committed to ending America’s dependence on Middle East oil. As a member of the Education and Labor Committee, Tim has fought to oppose the so-called “Employee Free Choice Act” and other antibusiness measures. He served in the Michigan House of Representatives from 1983 to 1999. During his time in the Legislature, Tim gained a reputation as a principled voice for less government spending, lower taxes, and fewer regulations. Tim and his wife Sue have been married for 34 years. They live in Tipton where they raised their three children Matthew, Heidi, and Caleb. They are also the proud grandparents of Micah and Claire. H
Why You Should Vote ABC of Michigan has endorsed the following candidates for election to the United States Congress Congressman Peter Hoekstra 2nd Congressional District
Congressman Hoekstra is a fiscal conservative who stands up for our economy by supporting lower taxes, fewer regulations and economic opportunity. He has long been supportive of ABC in the US Congress and serves our industry, state and country well.
Congressman Vernon J. Ehlers 3rd Congressional District
E
very day in city halls, state capitols and in Washington, DC your elected officials take actions that affect you and your fellow citizens. These elected officials represent your interests and it is important that they hear from YOU. If you don’t take a few moments to cast your ballot, then these elected officials are free to ignore your voice on issues critically important to you, me and all Americans. Our founding fathers crafted a government of, by and for the people. The only way this guiding principle works is if the citizens of this great land exercise their rights and VOTE. This election is expected to be one of the closest in American history – It could be decided by just a handful of votes per precinct. The next President and Congress will tackle major issues like health care, economic and homeland security and
Congressman Ehlers is committed to the construction industry and to growing our local, state and federal economy. He is a defender of lower taxes and free enterprise. ABC is proud to endorse Congressman Ehlers’ re-election.
will decide whether or not to protect your right to vote by secret ballot
Congressman Dave Camp 4th Congressional District
voting! Visit www.the-meritshopvotes.com to learn more about
Congressman Dave Camp is an aggressive advocate on behalf of Michigan businesses and the jobs they create. As a key ally of ABC in the US Congress Dave Camp is a leader we can count on.
in union organizing campaigns. Please join your fellow ABC members this November 4th in participating in the great American democracy by making our voices heard and the candidates and to get important election information. Do not let this election pass you by. Do not let others make the decisions that will shape your future.
Congressman Fred Upton 6th Congressional District
Congressman Fred Upton is working to jumpstart Michigan’s economy and create jobs. Always a friend to employers and employees alike, Congressman Upton is a strong voice for Michigan and the preferred candidate of ABC in the 6th District.
Congressman Mike Rogers 8th Congressional District
Get registered. Get informed. Get to the polls. Get the government you deserve.
Congressman Mike Rogers is a past recipient of the prestigious legislator of the year award from ABC and has earned the support of our membership in Michigan and across the country. Mike is dedicated to the free enterprise philosophy of the Merit shop and ABC is proud to endorse his re-election. H
Proudly Serving Michigan for over 64 years!
1 888 MICH CAT www.michigancat.com www.abcmi.com
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John McCain Barack Obama Phoenix, AZ
Home
Chicago, IL BA – Columbia University JD – Harvard University January 4, 2005 to Present
BS – U.S. Naval Academy
Education
January 7, 1987 to Present
U.S. Senate
OPPOSES
EMPLOYEE FREE CHOICE ACT (Card Check) The Act would remove a worker’s right to a private ballot election when deciding whether or not to unionize and replace it with a card check system.
SUPPORTS
SUPPORTS
OPEN COMPETITION Executive Order 13202 prohibits the federal government from requiring union-only project labor agreements on federally funded construction projects.
OPPOSES
SUPPORTS
ENERGY A comprehensive plan which includes expansion of offshore oil and gas exploration.
OPPOSES
OPPOSES
HEALTH CARE Government-run universal healthcare system.
SUPPORTS
SUPPORTS
TAXES The extension of the Economic Growth and Tax Relief Reconciliation Act of 2001 “Bush Tax Cuts” beyond 2010.
OPPOSES
OPPOSES
GUN RIGHTS More restrictions on gun rights in America.
SUPPORTS
Paid for by Associated Builders and Contractors, Inc. Free Enterprise Alliance 4250 North Fairfax Drive, 9th Floor, Arlington, VA 22203
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For President of the United States: Senator John McCain The ABC of Michigan Board has endorsed
Sen. John McCain (R-Ariz.) to be the 44th President of the United States. McCain was the unanimous choice of ABC’s board of directors. John McCain and Sarah Palin are the only candidates ABC can count on to help move our country, state and industry forward. For the commercial and industrial construction industry the election of Senator John McCain for president is a top priority. His strong record in protecting the rights of merit shop construction employees and employers alike is unmatched and represents the very best choice in this important election. Like ABC John McCain stands for freedom in the workplace, stopping the expansion of federal Davis Bacon prevailing wage requirements, eliminating discriminatory union only project labor agreements and promoting a strong economy through lower taxes and fewer regulations. John McCain is the candidate that best represents the free enterprise values of ABC. We are confident that he will continue to be an advocate for free enterprise and we proudly endorse his candidacy for president. H
Industry Expertise With Personalized Attention Crowe knows how to build construction businesses. Services include: O Strategic Construction Operations Review and Evaluation (SCORE); O Tax ideas to improve your cash flow; O Ownership transition and management succession planning; O Risk management; O Strategy and performance measurement; O Audits and benefit plan services. For more information, please call Rob DeGroot at 616.752.4271 Rhonda Huismann at 616.752.4229
Crowe Chizek and Company LLC is a member of Horwath International Association, a Swiss association (Horwath). Each member firm of Horwath is a separate and independent legal entity. Accountancy services in the state of California are rendered by Crowe Chizek and Company LLP, which is not a member of Horwath. Š 2008 Crowe Chizek and Company LLC FW7863
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ABC Endorses
Chief Justice Cliff Taylor for Re-Election to Supreme Court
This November the future of the Michigan Supreme Court will be at stake. Judicial conservatives
make up a narrow 4-3 majority on the court. It is for this reason that one of the most important races of this election cycle is the Michigan Supreme Court Race where ABC has enthusiastically endorsed Chief Justice Cliff Taylor for re-election. For ABC and free enterprise as a whole, the Supreme Court race will have a greater impact and far reaching implications for the residents of this state. The race for Supreme Court Justice will determine whether the state’s high court will remain in the control of the conservatives or if it will make a dramatic shift to the left. In addition to the philosophical balance of the Supreme Court, Chief Justice Taylor’s seat is at the focal point of the Democrat’s plan to retake control of the redistricting process in 2010. If the democrats retain the State House in 2010, they will be the party which redraws the political boundaries within the state. Should that happen Republicans stand to potentially lose three congressional seats, including Congressmen Walberg, Knollenberg, and Rogers. Moreover, control of the district maps for both the State House and Senate are at stake. Cliff Taylor has delivered on his 2000 election promise to interpret the law, not make it. He has signed or authored opinions that keep government from using eminent domain to seize private property, and that hold criminals accountable for their crimes. He has refused to let harmless procedural errors disturb jury convictions. And he obeys the will of the people as enacted by the Legislature in following the written law. He deserves our full support. H
ABC Endorses
Jack Hoogendyk For US Senate
Jack Hoogendyk is a conservative who stands for the core principles our country was founded upon: Smaller Government, Lower Taxes, and Individual Responsibility. Jack is a long time friend of ABC and a leader in the Michigan House of Representatives. He has introduced pro-merit shop legislation to make Michigan a right to work state, eliminate prevailing wage requirements and lower taxes on business. His opponent, Senator Carl Levin, on the other hand has consistently voted against ABC members and the construction industry. He voted in favor of federal Davis Bacon expansion, has been a vocal supporter of union efforts to eliminate secret ballot elections and has increased taxes on families and businesses alike. Jack Hoogendyk has earned the endorsement of ABC of Michigan and we are confident that he will continue his principled support of our members by advocating common sense policies that will help stimulate Michigan’s struggling economy and get our state back on track. H
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ABC Endorses Bouchard and Romney for MSU Board of Trustees A key statewide election where open competition and fairness are at stake is for trustees to the Michigan State University Board of Trustees. ABC has made the bold decision to endorse the election of Lisa Bouchard and the re-election of Scott Romney to the Michigan State University Board Lisa Bouchard of Trustees to help stop future union-only Project Labor Agreements (PLAs). Recently organized labor began putting pressure on the University to enact a policy that would require PLAs on all university construction. Fortunately they were unsuccessful and had to settle for a policy similar to the policy already in place where such decisions regarding PLAs are made on a project by project basis. By electing Lisa Bouchard and re-electing Scott Scott Romney Romney to the board of trustees we can ensure that there are enough votes on the Board of Trustees to prevent the enactment of PLAS. Both Bouchard and Romney share ABC’s commitment to the free enterprise philosophy of the Merit Shop. They have proven records and can both be counted on. On November 4, be sure to remember to vote Lisa Bouchard and Scott Romney for MSU Trustees. H
State House Endorsements
(The following candidates are endorsed by ABC of Michigan, ABCMI PAC or both.)
District Candidate ABC Chapter Area 1 19 20 21 24 32 36 37 38 39 40 41 43 44 45 46 47 51 58 59 61 62 63 65 66 70 71 72 73 74 75 77 78 79 80 81 82 86 87 88 89 90 91 93 98 101 102 104 105 106 108
Mary Treader Lang John Walsh Jerry Vorva Todd LaJoy Brian Brandenburg John Accavitti Pete Lund Paul Welday Hugh Crawford Amy Peterman Chuck Moss Marty Knollenberg Gail Haines Eileen Kowall Tom McMillin James Marleau Cindy Denby Paul Scott Ken Kurtz Matt Lori Larry Deshazor Greg Moore Jase Bolger Ray Snell Bill Rogers Tom Ginster Rick Jones Justin Amash Tom Pearce Dave Agema Dan Tietema Kevin Green Sharon Tyler John Proos Tonya Schuitmaker Phil Pavlov Kevin Daily Dave Hildenbrandt Brian Calley Bob Genetski Arlan Meekhof Joe Haveman Holly Hughes Paul Opsommer Jim Stamas Ray Franz Darwin Booher Wayne Schmidt Kevin Elsenheimer Peter Pettalia Mike Falcon
Southeastern Michigan Southeastern Michigan Southeastern Michigan Southeastern Michigan Southeastern Michigan Southeastern Michigan Southeastern Michigan Southeastern Michigan Southeastern Michigan Southeastern Michigan Southeastern Michigan Southeastern Michigan Southeastern Michigan Southeastern Michigan Southeastern Michigan Southeastern Michigan Central and Southeastern Michigan Southeastern Michigan Central Michigan Western Michigan Western Michigan Central and Western Michigan Central and Western Michigan Central Michigan Central and Southeastern Michigan Western Michigan Central Michigan Western Michigan Western Michigan Western Michigan Western Michigan Western Michigan Western Michigan Western Michigan Western Michigan Southeastern Michigan Western Michigan Western Michigan Western Michigan Western Michigan Western Michigan Western Michigan Western Michigan Central Michigan Saginaw Valley Western Michigan Western Michigan Western Michigan Northern Michigan Region (Western MI Chapter) Northern Michigan Region (Western MI Chapter) Northern Michigan Region (Western MI Chapter)
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BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT
The Employee Free Choice Act Why “card check” is the single biggest threat to your business and your employees By Lindsay Shuba, ABC Region Six Political Manager
It was once said that only two things are certain in life: taxes and death. The author of that quote must have passed away long before the age of the billion-dollar election cycle. Fast forward to 2008, and the list wouldn’t be complete without adding media spin, election rhetoric, and countless numbers of political commercials. Simply put, someone, somewhere, is trying to engage you in the most important election of our time. The stakes couldn’t be higher. Many of the decisions made by those who we elect on November 4th will directly impact your bottom line, and could even dictate your ability to survive in the construction industry. ABC’s motto “Get into politics or get out of business” succinctly sums up the consequences of sitting on the sidelines this year. The stakes for opponents of the merit shop are equally as high. 2008 represents an ‘all-in’ wager for the unions, who are poised to elect a rubber stamp of failed, antiquated labor policy to the White House, no matter what the cost. At the top of their wish list is the deceptively-named Employee Free Choice Act which was introduced in Congress earlier this session by Representative George Miller (D-CA) and Senator Ted Kennedy (D-MA). If passed, the Employee Free Choice Act—also known as “card check”—would strip away the right of 140 million U.S. workers to a federally supervised private-ballot election when deciding whether or not to unionize. Under the current system, administered by the independent National Labor Relations Board, workers decide to unionize by a private-ballot election, a timetested process that allows them to vote anonymously without fear of intimidation or reprisals. Under the “card check” system, union organizers would only have to gather signed authorization cards from a majority of the workers to claim union representation, which would force workers to make their choice about a union in public. This opens the door to possible union threats that could keep a worker from voting their conscience. Without private ballots, each worker’s choice would be known not only to their The stakes couldn’t be higher. Many of the decisions made by those who we elect on November 4th will directly impact your bottom line, and could even dictate your ability to survive in the construction industry.
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co-workers, but also to union organizers and their employer. Worse yet, workers who were intimidated or coerced into signing authorization cards would not have the ability to change their vote in private. The second aspect of the Employee Free Choice Act that is just as real and serious as a threat to both employers and employees is the provision for mandatory binding arbitration. Once a union is newly-recognized as the collective bargaining agent for employees at a company, the employer has 120 days to reach a mutually agreed upon contract with the union. If an agreement is not reached within that time period, a federally-appointed arbitrator will set the contract’s terms, including workers’ wages and compensation. The arbitrator’s terms are binding for two years and cannot be rejected by either the employer or the union. This denies the employer of the right to decide what is best for their business, as well as takes away an employee’s right to strike. The Employee Free Choice Act— also known as “card check”—would strip away the right of 140 million U.S. workers to a federally supervised private-ballot election when deciding whether or not to unionize.
The Employee Free Choice Act passed in the U.S House of Representatives by a nearly party line vote of 241 to 185 before the U.S. Senate wisely defeated further discussion on this piece of legislation for this session. Even if the legislation would have passed the in the Senate, President Bush promised to veto the legislation if it reached his desk.
Without the guarantee of a presidential veto in 2009 and beyond, ABC members and the entire business community must be vigilant of the longstanding threat that the Employee Free Choice Act presents. Prominent Democrats in Congress have already signaled their intent to re-introduce the legislation in the upcoming session. The issue has gotten so large that both candidates for President have taken card check to the campaign trail. Republican nominee John McCain favors the secret ballot approach to union organizing and has stated that he will veto the legislation if he is elected President; Democratic nominee Barack Obama favors the “card check” approach to union organizing and hopes to sign the Employee Free Choice Act into law if he is elected President. The battle has just begun. The good news is that with all-things-political, Americans know best. A McLaughlin Group survey shows that 87% of likely voters feel that workers should continue to have the right to a federally supervised secret ballot election when deciding whether to join a union. The survey also shows that in union households, 90% think a secret ballot is the best option. Truly, no one—employer or union organizers—should fear a secret ballot election. continued on p. 20
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spotlight on members
Central Michigan Ryan Henry appointed to National Green Building Committee ABC Central Michigan would like to recognize board member Ryan Henry of Kincaid Builders for his recent inclusion to the ABC National Green Building Committee. The proven leadership and experience he and his partner Ryan Kincaid have demonstrated by starting the first U.S. Green Building Council Chapter here in Mid-Michigan is a testament to why Ryan Henry of Kincaid Builders was invited to represent ABC members on this inaugural committee.
E. T. MacKenzie Companies Big Donors for Extreme Home Makeover E.T. MacKenzie Companies, a Central Michigan Chapter member, donated more than $50,000 in demolition, excavation, grading and all foundation work to the ABC’s Extreme Makeover: Home Edition community effort that resulted in the construction of a new home in less than one-week for a special Lansing area family. Mayberry Homes, from Lansing, was chosen by the popular network television program to oversee and construct the new home in Holt.
The E.T. MacKenzie Companies joined MPC Cashway Lumber, Michigan State University, Lansing Community College and Dean Transportation as major donors in support for the new home effort. H
Saginaw Valley The Rehmann Group takes top honors
Southeastern Michigan Onslow judges National Skills USA Championship
At the recent Association for Accounting Marketing (AAM) Achievement Awards in San Diego, California, The Rehmann Group took home a Marketing Achievement Award for outstanding achievement in the sales presentation and proposal category.
ABC members and chapters from across the country joined to support and participate in the 2008 SkillsUSA National Championships held June 23-27 in Kansas City. During this year’s national program, more than 5,000 students competed in 91 contests.
“It is an honor to be recognized with such a distinguished award,” said Steve Kelly, Chairman & CEO of The Rehmann Group. “The firm appreciates this recognition, as it emphasizes successful delivery of our brand promise, Business wisdom delivered, and helps us in our quest to become THE firm of choice for clients and associates.
Representing the Southeastern Michigan Chapter of ABC was Mark Onslow of Onslow-Sheffield, located in Brighton. Mark has served as a judge and event planner for the carpentry competition for the past ten years. “It is extremely rewarding watching these students apply the skills which they have learned over the past two to four years and to compete at this level,” said Onslow. In addition to judging
The Rehmann Group is the second larg-
“We were committed to help our good friends at Mayberry Homes in every way possible because we saw this as a unique chance to rally our community together for a great cause,” said Ed MacKenzie, owner of the E.T. MacKenzie Companies. “This was a once in a lifetime opportunity to show the world what Lansing is really made of.” MacKenzie Companies have been a leader in the construction contracting field for over 30 years in Michigan, Florida and North Carolina.
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est Michigan-based accounting and consulting firm and a member of the ABC Saginaw Valley Chapter. H
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at the National SkillsUSA level, Onslow is involved locally with School-to-Work Programs in several school districts throughout the Southeastern Michigan area. In 2006 Mark Onslow was awarded ABC National’s “Supportive Contractor” Award. Mark was recognized for his work with youth at the local, state and national levels, and as an example of the difference that active member involvement can make in the construction industry. SkillsUSA, is a national organization serving 300,000 students and professional members enrolled in technical, skilled and service occupations, the annual National Championships event serves as a showcase for the best career and technical students in the nation. H
We build trust.
Western Michigan
Dan Welch inducted into NTCA Five Star Program
ber of the Western Michigan Chapter and State Board Member was inducted into the National Tile Contractors Association (NTCA) Five Star Program. Those inducted are tile contractors who demonstrate a commitment to training, service, quality, superior job performance and safety. “The NTCA Five Star Program was created by our Board of Directors as a way to recognize companies in our Association with a proven track record of excellence in our trade,” said Bart Bettiga, executive director of the NTCA. “As the program grows in stature and reputation, the NTCA will market and promote their Five Star Members throughout the industry, creating a tangible marketing and sales benefit for those qualified companies that take the time to submit their firm for consideration.”
Dan Welch, Welch Tile & Marble, a mem-
The Best & Brightest Companies
Michigan ‘50 Companies to Watch’ Honors Two Western Michigan Members This award celebrates the success achieved by Second Stage Entrepreneurs and was awarded on April 24th in Lansing. Governor Granholm was the Keynote Speaker. Western Michigan Chapter member winners of the prestigious 2008 award were: James Dally – MAVCON, Inc. and Terrell Daniels – Modern Fire and Security Systems, Inc.
Smith Haughey Rice & Roegge can help keep your project on track from day one. For decades, we’ve represented contractors, design professionals, and sub-contractors, in every aspect of the construction process. Today, our Construction Law Team includes 16 attorneys who have specific construction industry experience, so you can rely on us for any legal need that may arise. Put your trust in our knowledge and expertise.
CONSTRUCTION LAW
www.shrr.com 877.833.shrr Serving clients across Michigan.
The following ABC Western Michigan companies have been recognized by “Grand Rapids Business Journal” as The Best & Brightest Companies to Work™ for In West Michigan: A.J. Veneklasen Atwell-Hicks, Inc. Beene Garter, LLP The Campbell Group Crowe Chizek and Company LLC CSM Group DVK Construction, Inc. Elzinga & Volkers, Inc. Enterprise Fleet Management Fifth Third Bank Fishbeck, Thompson, Carr & Huber, Inc. HUB International Insurance Services Hungerford, Aldrin, Nichols & Carter, PC Mavcon Miller Johnson PLC NTH Consultants, Ltd. Plante & Moran, PLLC Progressive AE The Rehmann Group Rhoades McKee Rockford Construction Company Seaman’s Air Conditioning & Refrigeration, Inc. Triangle Associates, Inc. Yeo & Yeo, PC
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AROUND THE STATE - Chapter news
Central Michigan Chapter 1501 Rensen St, Suite C Lansing, MI 48910 517.394.4481
Central Michigan Chapter grows PAC, Apprenticeship Program and Membership The Central Michigan Chapter successfully surpassed its PAC goal and is preparing for several events leading up to what should prove to be an exciting election. The Apprenticeship program has the highest number of first year students since 2002 and hopes to continue the trend with new partnerships leading to an increased awareness of the training ABC Central Michigan has to offer. The membership renewal rate has slowly climbed to 84% for the year while also securing 9 new members. Please welcome new members for 2008 Airport Lighting, LLC, Ajax Heating & A/C, Inc., Briggs Mechanical, Inc., Constine Inc., Custom Electric, First Contracting, Inc., Richardson Carpet Cleaning, Inc., Superior Structures Inc., and The Stripe Man.
Central Michigan Chapter Events The ABC Sporting Clays Challenge was held on October 2 and our Annual Meeting is scheduled for the end of October. H
Saginaw Valley Chapter 4520 E. Ashman Rd, Ste G Midland, MI 48642 989.832.8879
ABC Saginaw Valley Chapter Announces Scholarship Recipients The ABC Construction Academy awarded five scholarships to students who graduated from local high schools in the spring of 2008. These students were selected by the Saginaw Valley Chapter Education Committee upon completion of an application and interview process. These students are: Todd Arnold (Electrical), Nathan Jones (Electrical), Taylor Luckett (Carpentry), Kyle Morey (Electrical) and Lucas Tetu (Pipefitting). These students began their craft training programs in the Fall 2008 class.
Southeastern Michigan Chapter 31800 Sherman Ave. Madison Hts, MI 48071 248.298.3600
Chapter Golf Outing – A Blessed Event Held at The Inn at St. John’s in Plymouth, a church and former monastery, the perfectly sunny 75 degree weather seemed like a day from heaven above. Eighty golfers took to the links on August 7th at the chapter’s 22nd annual golf outing. Two teams, Long Mechanical and Campbell Industrial Contractors, tied with a score of 77 for first place. After implementing the tie breaker rules, Campbell Industrial Contractors shined victoriously over the twenty other teams. Team Blue Book of Building and Construction has the honor of having their team players names and score engraved on the infamous High Team Trophy.
SEMI’s CET New Interactive Web Site Take a minute to look at the new CET web site. We have a whole new exciting look!! Check us out by linking through the ABC web site or go to www.michigantrades.com. The web site is designed to attract the generation of people currently enrolled in high school and college to showcase work in the construction trades as an exciting and viable career goal. Check it out and make sure you have your computer’s sound on.
Ralph Bourdeau Training Center Opens To a Full House The Southeastern Michigan Chapter’s Open House for its new building which houses its offices and the Construction Education and Training Center celebrated the completion of a dream. The ribbon cutting ceremony took place while members, colleagues and dignitaries looked on and smiled. Following the dedication of the office portion of the building, the guests move to the back of the facility to officially open the training center which bears the name of a gentleman who worked tirelessly to make the dream of having a hands-on training facility a reality – the late Ralph Bourdeau. Mr.
Mark Your Calendars The Saginaw Valley Holiday Party is scheduled for December 11, 2008 at Zehnder’s of Frankenmuth. Plan to attend and make sure to get it on your calendar before the busyness of the holidays. H
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Board members officially “cut the ribbon”.
Bourdeau’s family looked on as the group remembered their husband, father and grandfather in an honoring tribute to his ethics, hardwork and dedication to the merit shop Madison Heights Mayor, Edward Swanson and philosophy. The new Congressman Joe Knollenberg look on. 25,000 square foot facility boasts 4,000 square feet of office space and 21,000 square feet of classroom and hands-on training space. H
Western Michigan Chapter 580 Cascade West Pkwy Grand Rapids, MI 49546 616.942.9960
Integrated Project Delivery (IPD) Briefing The AIA Grand Valley Chapter invited ABC/WMC members to attend a Special Lunch Meeting on Wednesday, October 1, 2008 at the St. Cecilia Music Society, Grand Rapids. The program introduced AIA’s newest set of construction documents supporting the Integrated Project Delivery method of project delivery. The presentation explained the benefits of IPD for owners, constructors and designers.
Construction Awards Banquet Mark your calendars for the Annual Construction Awards Banquet to be held on October 21, 2008 at the Pinnacle Center, 3330 Highland Dr., Hudsonville, MI. The event is scheduled to begin at 5:15 p.m. and the cost is $40.00 per person. Please register with Gerri Lauzon at the chapter office. H
DPOTUSVDUJPO!MBX!HSPVQ Lawyers who know the tools (and rules) to make your next project more successful: Tom Saxe, Mike Walton, Bruce Courtade and David Bevins. To learn how we can help guide you or your company through legal issues, please contact us.
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Sipbeft!NdLff!QD 272!Puubxb!OX!Tvjuf!711! Hsboe!Sbqjet-!Njdijhbo!5:614! 727/346/4611! SipbeftNdLff/dpn
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BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT continued from p. 15 As a national association, ABC has been one of the most outspoken champions of the merit shop philosophy and employee rights on the local, state, and federal levels. There are few other associations who remain as deeply principled as ABC. In 2007, ABC was a leader in the formation of the Coalition for a Democratic Workplace (CDW). The sole purpose of the coalition is to unite workers, employers, groups, and associations from all over the country to fight card check. Since its inception, the coalition has blossomed to a healthy size of nearly 400 members, and continues to grow. For more information about what the coalition is doing to protect the secret ballot, or to become a member, go to www.myprivateballot.com. ABC cannot defeat the Employee Free Choice Act on its own. The association’s strength has always been in the quality of our members and their level of involvement. ABC needs for you to act now. Educate yourself with valuable tools and resources from at www. abc.org/cardcheck. Share this information with your peers—card check is not industry specific! Contact your elected officials and let them know that the Employee Free Choice Act is a job killer; more simply put, it’s a company killer. After all, companies create jobs, not the government. Most importantly, exercise your right to vote by secret ballot on November 4th. Make the merit shop’s voice heard. Get the government you deserve. H
Design/Build General Contractors Construction Management Facilities Services
Building For Life.
Dust Collection and Custom Sheet Metal Fabrication 1415 S. Division Ave Grand Rapids, MI 49507 Phone: (616) 245-5306 Fax: (616) 245-3542 Contact Vance Fennell, GM
6160 E. Fulton Ada, MI 49301 616-676-9169
www.constructivesheetmetal.com Vance@constructivesheetmetal.com
MIDWEST SALES, INC. CORRODED PIPING? WE SELL THE PRODUCT TO STOP IT! Easy Installation - Minimal Surface Preparation - RG-2400® THERMAL CERAMICS’ new FireMaster® FastWrap XL for Grease Duct Enclosure Systems - Meets new standards!
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Proudly Serving our Community for nearly 60 Years!
ur of o Two great y man ducts! pro
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Detroit
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Gulf States, Inc. is one of America’s foremost contractors with a nationally recognized safety program. The following highlights our company and services available to you.
COMPANY HIGHLIGHTS INDUSTRIAL SERVICES OFFERED: INDUSTRIES SERVED BY GSI: x Industrial Construction & Maintenance x Petrochemical/Chemical x New Construction x Power/Cogeneration/Geothermal x Shutdowns/Turnarounds x Food Processing x Procurement x Oil and Gas Refining x Pipe Fabrication/Welding x Pulp and Paper x Electrical x Offshore x General & Electrical Contracting x Pharmaceutical x Steel/Rebar Erection/Structural Steel x Manufacturing x Mechanical/Plumbing x Automotive x Instrumentation/Automation x Mining and Minerals x Concrete–Formwork Core Values Powered by People Success is realized through people. Operations Driven Focus on field operations providing the necessary support, appropriate responsibility, and authority to succeed. Be the Best Strive for excellence, continuous improvement and innovation in everything we do. Integrity Be fair and ethical in all we do. Can-Do Attitude Aggressively pursue challenges with a sense of urgency, desire to succeed, and a commitment to hard work and having fun.
Vision:
“To be the contractor of choice through strategic alliances within the maintenance and general services market by assigning “Can-Do” teams focused on total customer satisfaction through value added services”
GULF STATES, INC. CORPORATE OFFICE & FREEPORT DIVISION 6711 HWY. 332 EAST FREEPORT, TX 77541 (979) 233-5555 (800) 231-9849
GULF STATES, INC. Michigan Operations Midland Office 3213 South Saginaw Road MIDLAND, MI 48652 (989) 495-9082 FAX (989) 495-9084
Michigan Operations Manager Erick Forshee (989) 615-2754
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J & D Plumbing & Heating Ltd Address:
342 W. Saginaw Road Sanford, MI 48657 Phone: (989) 687-7336 Fax: (989) 687-5450 E-mail: jdplg_2000@yahoo.com Contact person: David L. Hartshorn
is your ad missing from the maga zine?
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If so, you are missing an opportunity to showcase your company with the construction industry across the entire state. Your ad, in this one publication, will reach all the nearly 1100 ABC of Michigan member companies, several nonmembers and key decisionmakers and policy makers throughout the state – now that’s value! Advertising in Michigan Merit is the onestop source for effectively marketing statewide to the merit shop construction industry in Michigan. Make sure you don’t miss this valuable opportunity again – your competitor won’t. Visit www.abcmi.com or contact Greg O’Neil at abc.org.ads@sbcglobal.net or 1-800-288-4248.
S SSUE T H E I N D I D AT E S A : THE C AKES E ACT T HOIC THE S REE C SINESS U YEE F MPLO O YOUR B T :THE E A L S O A T H R E AT i.com www.abcm
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Advertiser’s index ACCESS SAFETY.............................................Page 20
J&D PLUMBING & HEATING.........................Page 22
aIS Equipment.............................................Page 14
MEADOWBROOK INSURANCE.....................Page 4
answer heating & COOLING.................page 19
michigan cat.................................................Page 9
BRANDLE ROOFING & SHEET METAL.......Page 16
MIDWEST SALES.............................................Page 20
capital steel...............................................page 22
P&K Steel Service.......................................page 23
CONSTRUCTIVE SHEET METAL..................Page 20
Regency group.................................BACK COVER
Crowe chizek..............................................page 11
RHOADES MCKEE...........................................Page 19
CT ELECTRICAL................................................Page 9
RYAN IM KNECHT PLC....................................Page 9
DAN VOS CONSTRUCTION..........................Page 20
skilled trades.............................................page 15
FISHER CONTRACTING................................Page 15
smith haughey rice.................................page 17
genesee bay constructors..................page 7
three rivers corporation...................page 22
gulf states inc...........................................page 21
TRADESMEN INTERNATIONAL..................Page 22
J.E. Johnson, Inc..........................................page 20
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ASSOCIATED BUILDERS & CONTRACTORS OF MICHIGAN 120 WASHINGTON SQUARE, SUITE 805 LANSING, MICHIGAN 48933
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PRESORTED STANDARD U.S. POSTAGE PAID LANSING, MI PERMIT NO. 689