ABC Pelican Newsletter 3Q2017

MERIT SHOP MESSAGE ABCPELICAN.ORG THIRD QUARTER 2017

TH E M ERIT BLU EPRI NT ABC PELICAN EMBARKS ON 5 YEAR STRATEGIC PLAN

THE MORE THINGS CHANGE THE MORE THEY STAY THE SAME How do we ensure economic freedom for generations to come?

IS IT REALLY THE GOVERNMENT’S FAULT?

A look into the judgment of the District Court in Sewell v. Sewerage & Water Bd. of New Orleans

VOTE YES ON AMENDMENT #1

Constitutional Amendment protecting taxpayers in Louisiana on ballots on October 14

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MERIT SHOP MESSAGE ABCPELICAN.ORG

T H I RD Q UART E R 201 7 EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE Chair Andrew Lopez Cajun Industries, LLC Incoming Chair Trey Crawford Grady Crawford Construction Co., LLC Secretary Thad Rispone ISC Constructors, LLC Treasurer Ryan Girouard Whitney Bank Vice Chair Membership Growth Jeff Plauche Boh Bros. Construction Co., LLC Vice Chair Member Services Josh Rounds Performance Contractors, Inc.

BOARD OF DIRECTORS Lance Arvel GIS Industrial, LLC Conrad Bourg Primoris Services Corporation Darryl Clark The Brock Group Keith Coleman Beard Construction Group, LLC Donnie David ISC Constructors, LLC Wes Mincin Triad Electric & Controls, Inc. Shawn Worsham Jacobs LEGAL COUNSEL Murphy J. Foster, III Breazeale Sachse & Wilson, LLP

Vice Chair Education Lee Mayeux Cajun Industries, LLC Vice Chair Outlying Areas Donn Peterson GROUP Industries, LLC Immediate Past Chair Glen Redd Triad Electric & Controls, Inc.

MERIT SHOP MESSAGE THIRD QUARTER 2017 EDITORIAL/DESIGN Katherine Fremin Carver EDITORIAL / SUBSCRIPTION / ADVERTISING INQUIRIES jfinley@abcpelican.com (225) 752-1415 This is a publication of the Pelican Chapter, Associated Builders & Contractors, Inc. ABC is a national trade association representing the merit shop construction industy. The Pelican Chapter represents over 500 contractors, subcontractors, suppliers and industry professionals and covers 52 parishes in Louisiana. The Merit Shop Message is produced quarterly and distributed digitally to members.

LE TTE R FRO M TH E PRESIDENT

A STUDY OF DEFINITIONS

BY SARAH TAYLOR, ABC PELICAN,

GULF COAST OCCUPATIONAL MEDICINE Whirlwind would be a vast understatement in describing the last few months of my life. Happily ensconced in a 25 year career of my own, I assumed the role of chapter president in an effort to forge ahead the strategic plans of our association and usher out, with all honor deserved, the “Era of Al”. Given the 72 hour window of my transition, it goes without being said that I was not entirely sure what this pathway would hold for me. I can say now, after 90 days of service, that I have a renewed passion for the addictive thrill of free enterprise. I can attest to a redefining of myself that only comes with a cumulative inspection of who we are, what we contribute, and the importance of never wavering from the principles that engineer success by adhering to rightness.

Redefining begins with the inspection original meaning.

Here is a look at some very common terms that have both an assumed and, perhaps, a deeper meaning when applied to one’s own assessment.

ERA: A PERIOD OF TIME MARKED BY DISTINCTIVE CHARACTER ABC Pelican celebrates the “Era of Al.” There is not one among us that can deny his distinction or character. I owe an eternity of gratitude for his mentorship. He has been a trusted friend that has advised me in leadership, principles, and provided a historical perspective, which helped me to craft an attainable future. Thank you, “Cowboy” Al. You have blazed a trail of originality and unwavering integrity.

INTERIM: AN ACCEPTED ARRANGEMENT BELONGING TO A PERIOD OF TIME I am the interim. This is my period of time. The acceptance, which I’ve had in spades, has been an entirely a function of the membership and staff. Your gift of acceptance is appreciated beyond measure. Often, the benefits of membership are defined in discounts and perks, but

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LE T T E R F ROM T H E PR ES I D EN T I will tell you without a doubt that the benefit of ABC membership is the belonging and collaboration with a collection of motivated and like minded individuals that offer acceptance based on merit. Strength in unity is alive and well.

MERIT: DESERVING OF REWARD, ACKNOWLEDGMENT OF VALUE The cornerstone of Merit Principles defines the framework and resulting building blocks of ABC. It is our shared belief that advancement, compensation, and acknowledgment should be based on merit, hence contribution. With this as our defining value, rather than that of credentials or standing, the honor of allowing me to lead the association, even in the interim, has rekindled my passion for providing value and investment to an association known for triumphs of success vetted by effort.

STAFF: AID, A SYMBOL OF SUPPORT IN THE CASE OF HINDRANCE As a member, the ABC staff became friends. As a Chapter President, they have become my symbol of support. The vault of their collective knowledge is decidedly underestimated.

They are my aid. They give legs to the passion of the membership and agenda of the leadership. They are the stewards of our ideals. Take a minute and know them. I would be remiss in not acknowledging my own personal staff. Given news of my leave to ABC, they were thrilled for me, excited to see me embrace my personal passion, and stepped up to see that my original passion thrived in my absence. Hats off to the staffs that empower. They are the soldiers and win the day.

SUCCESS: FAVORABLE OUTCOME, THE ATTAINMENT OF HONOR Pelican is strong. Four marks of success define this chapter.

Are we expanding our political footprint? Are we increasing the numbers and knowledge of a skilled workforce? Are we strengthening the membership in both numbers and relevance? Do we enjoy a financial position based on fiduciary stewardship? I can give you a resounding YES to all four. Just in my tenure, damaging bills have been eliminated and a coalition has been formed to fight CWIP taxation.

After the devastation of the flood, the students are enjoying a remodeled training center, additional class offerings, and 2

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new satellites to make learning easier. Membership is rolling out a new dues structure aimed at honing our membership into the core group that will further our goals and provide financial support to our agenda. Our chapter is financially healthy and thriving within budgets that allow for the preservation of reserves and continual expansion.

SACRIFICE: A SURRENDER IN THE CONSIDERATION OF A HIGHER CLAIM I’ve been thanked many times for my sacrifice to serve ABC in a time of need. I want to leave you all with the understanding this sacrifice, which I deem to be one of the greatest honors of my time, has been solely in pursuit of a higher claim. There is no greater achievement than to achieve for the whole and receive a benefit as the one. Contributing to the health of our association and the advancement of our shared industry has re-energized my own passions of free enterprise and merit accomplishment. For that, I sincerely thank the membership for the honor of sacrifice and the reminder of allegiance to ideals. Which leads me to...

PASSION: A COMPELLING EMOTION OF OVERWHELMING DESIRE A stint at Pelican has renewed my passion. It has reminded me that nothing of worth is achieved without an overwhelming desire to affect change. It is the catalyst of purposeful activity.

Passion is the roux that binds our leadership, our strategic plans, our staff, and our merit principles. Without it, we will fall to mediocrity and lose the essence of our particular gumbo. This feeling of renewed passion is overwhelming and contagious. It is also necessary. Pelican needs our passion.

Our industry needs our compelling emotion. Our country needs our overwhelming desire for betterment.

Thank you all for allowing me to be part of the “Era of Pelican.” This interim blessing has reaffirmed the value of dedicated staff and the sheer bliss of participating in success.

Being allowed to offer my own sacrifice has reminded me of the inner goodness one receives when the task at hand is for the betterment of others. Rekindled passion allows me to believe that our future is bright and hope is abundant if only we are willing to set aside our limitations and allow merit to define the course. A sharper image becomes clear when the purpose is defined.

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C O NNE C T WIT H US

CONTENTS

Got a suggestion for a story? Contact Jennifer Finley at jfinley@abcpelican.com.

CHAPTER NEWS

01 Letter from the President A study of definitions, and the “Era of Pelican.”

08 Governmental Relations

SAFETY

Over 1,800 safety professionals attended the 2018 Louisiana Governor’s Safety & Health Conference.

On Election Day on October 14, voters will see an important constitutional amendment on the ballot that ABC is strongly supporting.

10 ABC National Nonresidential construction plunges again; nonresidential construction job growth accelerating; permanent injunction issued against overtime rule

18 Membership The annual new member discount campaign is underway! See how you can help grow our membership.

COVER STORY

ABC is embarking on a five year strategic plan to continue its positive impact on Louisiana by enhancing the construction industry through one collective voice.

Introducing, the MERIT BLUEPRINT.

LEGAL

Is it really the government’s fault? A look into the judgment of the District Court in Sewell v. Sewerage & Water Bd. of New Orleans

26 Events Did you miss out on the jam-packed summer events? We’re ready for fall, but here is your recap of the summer with ABC Pelican.

21 Second Quarter New Members 22 Third Quarter New Members 24 Calendar of Events 28 Chapter News Briefs 29 Committee Meetings 29 Staff

ATTORNEY GENERAL

Attorney General Jeff Landy alerts consumers to beware of hurricane season scams

LETTER FROM THE CHAIR

The more things change, the more they stay the same. How do we ensure economic freedom for generations to come?

ABCPELICAN.ORG check it out online www.abcpelican.org

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LE T T E R F ROM T H E C H A I R

THE MORE THINGS CHANGE, THE MORE THEY STAY THE SAME

BY ANDY LOPEZ, CAJUN INDUSTRIES, LLC These words could not be truer!

THE CHANGE: On July 31, 2017, after fifteen years at the helm, a giant of industry, mentor of mine and a friend to all, Al Bargas, retired as President of the Pelican Chapter.

As a true warrier and defender of Merit Shop, his legacy is forever etched into the cornerstone of our chapter. Both the administrative and training center buildings are open for business with a great fresh look courtesy of many benefactors responding to the historic flooding that occurred in August of 2016. You are currently reading Pelican’s first reformatted all electronic quarterly newsletter.

THE SAME: Before the August recess, the Senate failed to pass three amendments to repeal the Affordable Care Act (ACA), a.k.a. Obamacare Merit Shop Principle No.05: We support sound legislation in the areas of workers’ compensation, safety and unemployment compensation. We believe legislation that embraces fair play for both employer and employee is essential to the preservation of our Free Enterprise system.

The law should protect the right of employees to work regardless of race, color, creed, age, sex, national origin, membership or non-membership in a labor organization or other protected class.

THE SAME: Recently a group of teamsters were in court accused of bullying and extorting the cast and crew of “Top Chef.”

MERIT SHOP Principle No.06: We oppose violence, coercion, intimidation and the denial of the rights of both employees and management.

THE SAME: Louisiana Senate Resolution No. 149 of the 2017 Regular Session passed creating a Best Practices in Public Contracts Task Force, where the task force is responsible

for studying best practices to determine a fair method to evaluate bids on public works contracts based on best value instead of lowest price.

MERIT SHOP Principle No.07: We believe that economy is incumbent upon all branches of government and that government should award contracts to the lowest responsible bidder only. We oppose any unjust pressure to violate these principles.

As a continuation of our Knowledge is Power series intended to underscore three Principles of the Merit Shop each quarter, this quarter’s Principles take a deeper dive into a broad spectrum of important themes previously discussed.

The common purpose of all three is to ensure that economic freedom, thus liberty, is preserved for generations to come.

Merit Shop Principle No. 05, outlined above, is closely linked to that of Principle No. 04, which was reviewed in our “Work ‘Ethics’” article in June. At their core, both Principles address the employer-employee relationship; where-as, both workers and bosses should guide their choices by basic ethical principles, including honesty, candor, respect and caring.

Employers have a moral obligation to look out for the welfare of employees. It is not only a question of fair pay and good working conditions, there should also be a real and enduring concern for the well-being of employees. Employees also have moral obligations, and they go beyond giving a full day’s work for a full day’s pay. Principle No. 05 describes evening the proverbial playing field across industry by encouraging fair legislation and discouraging discrimination. Balance is key though. Take the Affordable Care Act (ACA) as an example. This horrendous piece of legislation, by design, swung the pendulum too far towards the employee side of the equation and overburdened the employer, thus greatly endangering our Free Enterprise system. This is why it must be repealed. www.abcpelican.org

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LE T T E R F ROM T H E C H A I R Principle No. 06, outlined above, is closely linked to that of Principle No. 03, which was reviewed in our “Merit Shop = Liberty” article in May. At their core, both Principles address liberty in the work-place. Only in an economically free society, where no man, group of men, organization, law or regulation can be used for physical coercion against anyone, can individuals succeed or fail based on their individual effort and ability—also known as merit! Again balance is key.

Employer nor employees should have the right to intrude on liberty through the use of violence, coercion, intimidation or the denial of the rights to others. It is startling to recognize that right now in the US, one small, specially privileged group bullies with impunity anyone standing in the way of its objectives. Aided and abetted by biased court rulings and the NLRB, union activists routinely practice coercion in many if not all of their strikes and organizing drives.

anyway would be an injustice, but more importantly, would be an assault on our country’s founding principles. As an association, we believe an unregulated bid market is most beneficial to individual workers’ and employers’ liberties; whereas, government acts as a “referee” by enforcing the rules of the game without directly determining outcomes by picking winners and losers. The use of “Best Value” to achieve economy will ultimately destroy competition, and the “system”, introduced for good purposes, will end up in the hands of people who use it to promote their own interests.

Principle No. 07, outlined above, is closely linked to that of Principle No. 02, which was reviewed in our “If You Ain’t First You’re Last” article in April. At their core, both Principles address the importance of Free and Open Competition.

Our Founders’ steadfastly believed in market freedom– meaning that every citizen must be free to sell anything to anyone at any time or place at any mutually agreeable price; government must define and enforce contracts; and means of transportation must be available to all on the same terms.

This humble concept supported by the truth that “Open Competition” functions as a self-regulating invisible hand is the basis of our Free Enterprise capitalist economy and our association as we know them. Competition yields lower costs and prices for goods and services; better quality; more choices and variety; more innovation; greater efficiency and productivity; economic development and growth; greater wealth equality; a stronger democracy by dispersing economic power; and greater quality of life by promoting individual initiative, liberty, and free association.

Make no mistake about it, we are at war for liberty as we know it. We are at war for the Merit Shop! It is not armed conflict on foreign soil, but instead, this war is being waged in our classrooms, courtrooms, chamber floors, bureaucracies and sidewalks. This is the “same” war over our core Principles that our association founders fought 67 years ago. Only with a different cast of characters and different tactics this time.

Look no further than current events: the enemy is assaulting us through legislation; the enemy is assaulting us through violence, coercion and intimidation; the enemy is assaulting us by attempting to limit competition.

There is no purer form of Free Enterprise expression, across all industries and markets, than that found in construction.

It is not by chance that we call our conference room “The War Room” on bid day. It is because competition is the great equalizer. At a bid opening, they don’t read aloud the bidders’ race, gender, years in business or labor affiliation. By design, we award on price. To interject or attempt to restrict this in

I ask each of you to join the war and help implement Operation Unyielding Merit to ensure that liberty and the Merit Shop are upheld for the next generation. God Bless you, God Bless the association and God Bless the United States of America.

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“The more things change, the more they stay the same.”

History repeats itself because, as Peter Senge, author of The Fifth Discipline: The Art & Practice of the Learning Organization, so astutely penned: “Reality is made up of circles, but we see straight lines.”

To borrow a line from Vice President, Mike Pence, rest assured that with a clear mission and passionate contingent of supporters, ABC is likened to the Marine Corp of politics– first in, never afraid of a fight and last one on the battle field.

This is our cause! Our Principles are worthy of the sacrifice required to be defended day in and day out.

#UnyieldingMerit

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GOV E RN M E NTA L R EL A T I O N S

SUPPORT CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENT #1

BY JOHN WALTERS, ABC OF LOUISIANA Associated Builders and Contractors rarely takes positions on Constitutional Amendments. Even more rarely do we recommend our members and their employees vote a particular way on them.

This time is different. On Election Day on October 14, voters will see an important constitutional amendment on the ballot that ABC is strongly supporting.

VOTE YES ON CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENT #1 It has been a traditional practice in Louisiana going back decades that any type of new construction is not placed on the property tax rolls until the building or project is completed. That is, Construction Work in Progress (CWIP) is not subject to property taxes.

The property or land itself is on the tax rolls and taxes are paid on that. However, materials used to build the project have not been subject to property tax while construction was underway and the final improvements don’t go onto the tax rolls until the project is completed.

That has been the case for any type of construction, whether it is a commercial or industrial project, or if someone is building a home or adding on to an existing home.

This traditional practice is being threatened by a handful of aggressive local tax assessors who realized the constitution is silent on CWIP and are now adding the value of building supplies, materials, and components to the value of the property under construction, vastly increasing the cost of construction projects in Louisiana.

During the 2017 Legislative Session, ABC helped pass a 8

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constitutional amendment allowing the voters of Louisiana to put this protection into the constitution.

Constitutional Amendment #1 addresses the silence in the constitution about whether property taxes can be levied on construction materials before the construction is completed.

If this amendment passes, it will clarify that construction materials would be exempt from property taxes until “construction is finished to the extent that the project can be used or occupied for its intended purpose.” It further clarifies that for projects constructed in multiple phases, any portion that is complete and available for its intended use is subject to the assessment.

The passage of the amendment will be a big win for our industry in Louisiana, and will protect the future burdens placed on companies through the Louisiana tax code. ABC is a strong supporter of this constitutional amendment and encourages you and your employees to stay educated throughout the election cycle.

YOUR SUPPORT IS NEEDED TO PASS

CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENT #1 ON OCTOBER 14 th Vote YES! Protect Louisiana Taxpayers from an Expensive New Tax!

Constitutional Amendment #1 protects every tax payer in Louisiana who is building or plans to build a home, building or other facility on their property.

What It Does and Why It Is Needed: Constitutional Amendment #1 prohibits the assessment of property taxes on any project while it is under construction.

Only when construction of a house, building or facility is complete and ready for its intended use should the local assessor place the property on the tax rolls.

This has been the established practice in Louisiana for decades, yet the exemption is not clearly spelled out in the Constitution. In 2016, one parish threatened to tax a major project while it was still under construction.

That potential action poses a significant threat to all Louisiana property owners. If the threatened tax was implemented, construction work would become taxable for every home, barn, and office building under construction in Louisiana.

CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENT #1: “Do you support an amendment to exempt from property taxes materials and other property delivered to a construction site to be made part of a building or other construction?”

YES!

Who Supports It: There is a broad and diverse coalition of supporters including: • • • • •

Constitutional Amendment #1 provides certainty to every business seeking to invest money and create jobs in Louisiana by ensuring it is not targeted with a new, arbitrary and unexpected property tax bill.

• • • • • •

What the Amendment Does Not Do:

•

Constitutional Amendment #1 does not take any revenue away from local governments. Construction projects have not been taxed in the past and this amendment will prevent them from being taxed in the future.

•

•

• • •

Louisiana Police Jury Association Louisiana Home Builders Association Louisiana Industrial Development Executives Association Louisiana Municipal Association Louisiana Mid-Continent Oil & Gas Association Louisiana Oil and Gas Association Louisiana Sheriff’s Association Louisiana REALTORS® Louisiana Associated General Contractors Associated Builders and Contractors of Louisiana Louisiana Association of Business and Industry Louisiana Chemical Association Louisiana Energy Export Association A bipartisan coalition of State Legislators Louisiana Governor John Bel Edwards Committee of 100 for Economic Development Numerous regional and local economic development organizations Published by Louisiana Taxpayer Protection PAC 732 N 5th Street, Baton Rouge, LA 70802

ABC N AT ION A L NONRESIDENTIAL CONSTRUCTION PLUNGES AGAIN WASHINGTON, Sept. 1— Nonresidential construction spending fell 1.7 percent in July, totaling $688.4 billion on a seasonally adjusted, annualized basis, according to an analysis by Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC) of data released today by the U.S. Census Bureau.

The absolute level of nonresidential construction spending was at its lowest point since December 2015.

Weakness in spending was widespread.

Thirteen of the 16 nonresidential subsectors contracted for the month.

Only the public safety and power categories experienced monthly increases, while the highway and street category remained unchanged for the month. However, May and June nonresidential spending was revised upward by a collective $11 billion.

“As a society, we collect and report data in order to clarify the nature of our circumstances and how they are changing,” said ABC Chief Economist Anirban Basu. “However, recently received data have muddied, not clarified, our collective understanding of how well the nation’s nonresidential construction sector is performing.

NONRESIDENTIAL CONSTRUCTION job growth accelerating WASHINGTON, Sept. 1—National construction employment rebounded in August, adding 28,000 net new

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jobs on a seasonally adjusted basis, according to today’s release from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. It was the best month for job gains in construction since February, according to analysis by Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC).

Construction employment declined by 3,000 net positions in July.

Nonresidential construction added 14,300 net new jobs in August after losing 6,200 in July, according to government data.

The construction industry unemployment rate, which is available only on a non-seasonally adjusted basis, fell two-tenths of a percentage point and now stands at 4.7 percent.

This represents the first time during the past five years that the industry’s unemployment rate declined in August.

The unemployment rate for all U.S. industries inched up to 4.4 percent.

“Data work in strange ways,” said ABC Chief Economist Anirban Basu.

“In July, overall national job growth remained strong, while construction statistics sagged. One month later, the construction jobs picture looks much brighter, while headline numbers for the broader economy appear a bit less benign.

FEDERAL JUDGE ISSUES PERMANENT INJUNCTION AGAINST OVERTIME RULE On Aug. 31, the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Texas granted a motion for summary judgment against

the U.S. Department of Labor’s (DOL) burdensome and costly overtime rule and converted his earlier preliminary injunction (issued Nov. 22, 2016) to a permanent injunction.

ABC participated in the business coalition that achieved this outcome, and ABC General Counsel Maury Baskin of Littler Mendelson P.C. filed the successful motion for summary judgment.

As a result of this final judgment by the district court, the pending appeal from the preliminary injunction is now moot and is expected to be dismissed.

The Trump administration will have until Oct. 31 to decide whether to file a new notice of appeal from the judge’s final order. ABC hopes the administration will not appeal, and instead will focus its efforts on proposing a new rule, which is already underway at DOL. On May 23, 2016, DOL issued the Defining and Delimiting the Exemptions for Executive, Administrative, Professional, Outside Sales and Computer Employees final rule, also known as the overtime final rule. This would have changed the federal exemptions to overtime pay under the Fair Labor Standards Act for “white collar” workers by doubling the current minimum salary level for exemption from $23,660 to $47,476 per year and automatically increasing it every three years.

Construction Input Price Growth Accelerates in August WASHINGTON, Sept. 13— Construction input prices rose 0.6 percent in August and are up 3.7 percent on a yearly basis, according to an analysis by Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC) of data released today by the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Nonresidential construction input prices behaved similarly, rising 0.6 percent for the month and 3.5 percent for the year.

Only three of the 11 key construction input prices fell for the month. The inputs experiencing declines in prices

were steel mill products (-1.5 percent), prepared asphalt, tar roofing and siding products (-0.3 percent), and natural gas (-1.8 percent). Crude petroleum prices exhibited the largest increase, rising 11 percent on a monthly basis and 15 percent on an annual basis.

“If we consider what ought to be happening with respect to materials prices, we would expect them to be marching steadily higher,” said ABC Chief Economist Anirban Basu. “After all, the global economic recovery is an increasingly synchronized one. China is on pace to meet growth expectations this year. Europe, Japan, Brazil, Russia and other nations are experiencing meaningfully better recoveries this year compared to 2016. While some economies like Great Britain’s and

India’s have stumbled a bit lately, the broader story is one of more rapid global economic growth, driven in large measure by a low interest rate, post-austerity policy environment.

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COVE R S T ORY

THE MERIT BLUEPRINT ABC is embarking on a five year strategic plan to continue its positive impact on Louisiana by enhancing the construction industry elevating the industry’s political influence through one collective voice. Introducing, the MERIT

BLUEPRINT.

As the unified voice in Louisiana’s construction industry, representing roughly 500 companies throughout 52 parishes, Pelican Chapter, ABC is a driving political and economic force in the state. Both members and economic and industry partners rely on ABC to synthesize and relay industry trends and threats, as well as set standards for safety and workforce training. Originally established in 1980 to foster the merit shop environment in Louisiana, ABC has continued to broaden its scope of concern over the past three decades, always staying one step ahead of the needs of its members.

The state of Louisiana currently enjoys the number one ranking from MeritShopScorecard.org due in large part to our right-to-work status and Project Labor Agreement (PLA) ban. However, our workforce development and job growth rate threaten to decrease that ranking if resources are not devoted to preventative and ongoing action. While dozens of organizations from economic development groups to educational institutions tout their dedication to finding solutions, ABC is the leading organization with the industry expertise to find the right solutions.

ABC knows its success can determine the success of the entire industry and positively impact the state of Louisiana. With the right strategic plan and a committed board, 12

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ABC can play an important role in paving the way for a brighter and better future for Louisiana. To help build this blueprint, at the beginning of 2017, ABC engaged Emergent Method, a Louisiana-based management consulting firm, to manage and facilitate its strategic planning process.

Despite the unique challenges our state and national legislative climate have created, ABC’s Merit Shop Philosophy and commitment to the principles of the free enterprise system in the construction industry have attracted a membership base that represents the best of the industry and has made the Pelican Chapter a model for other trade associations. In the face of adversity, ABC leadership has found creative ways to help members grow and prosper–through governmental affairs, education and training and other relevant programming and events. ABC’s prioritization of workforce training given the industry’s workforce shortage is a prime example of this.

Thousands of students have now experienced the association’s innovative curriculum at the Baton Rouge and Southwest Training Centers, preparing young men and women to excel in their craft.

This commitment to excellence has won ABC numerous awards and gained the respect of community and political leaders across Louisiana.

COVE R S T ORY It is clear that ABC’s reputation and accomplishments speak for themselves.

The strategic planning process isn’t about starting over. Rather, it is about building upon past successes and examining how recent shifts in the industry and political landscape impact ABC’s mission and its future priorities and operations.

This process sought to answer one question: What does ABC need to do over the next three to five years to advance the Merit Shop Philosophy and make Louisiana’s construction industry the most powerful and prosperous in the nation?

Improving workforce recruitment and development and expanding ABC’s political voice requires an increase in membership and revenue. To grow revenue streams, ABC must build its brand, awareness, and visibility across the state. An improved reputation requires a thoughtful and strategic communications strategy. For this strategy to be effective, ABC must have a clear and compelling mission, vision, and value proposition. Establishing

The answers to that question lie in seven priority areas: 1. Board Recruitment, Engagement, and Governance 2. Chapter Operations 3. Governmental Affairs 4. Workforce Recruitment and Development 5. Membership Growth 6. Membership Experience 7. Marketing and Communications The goals and strategies within these seven priority areas are interconnected — the implementation and success of one is necessary for the implementation and success of another.

these guiding philosophies and acting on them requires an engaged, effective, and committed board of directors.

The codependent relationships described above guided the construction and organization of the goals, focus areas, and strategies that are outlined in the Merit Blueprint. The “goals and focus areas” includes goals, summary of strategies to achieve these goals and key performance indicators to measure performance.

A comprehensive

implementation plan with detailed strategies and projected financial investments for each focus area is included as an appendix. The strategies outlined in this implementation plan are organized by year to guide execution. These timing decisions were made in consideration of the codependent relationships described above and available resources.

The execution of these strategies will be driven by staff with assistance from board members through an improved committee and governance structure.

The implementation plan is a living document and will be updated at the beginning of each year.

Additionally, it is “frontloaded” to allow flexibility to adjust and update in years four and five.

Starting in January 2018, the board of directors and standing committees will take a focused look on the implementation plan.

Committees have been asked to make the plan their own; to embrace it and steer conversations towards the betterment of the association, which in turn leads to the betterment of the communities in which our members live and work.

We look forward to share our continued progress along the Merit Blueprint.

Visit abcpelican.org to view the full strategic plan.

www.abcpelican.org

13

SA FET Y

Louisiana Governor’s Conference Co-Locates with VPPPA’s Safety+ in New Orleans

BY ALLIANCE SAFETY COUNCIL For the first time in its history, Alliance Safety Council’s premier conference, the Louisiana Governor’s Safety & Health Conference, co-located with VPPPA’s Safety+ National Symposium. The event was held at the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center in New Orleans from August 29 to September 1.

Over 1,800 safety professionals from around the U.S. and as far away as Canada, Nigeria and Germany were in attendance. Alliance Safety Council President and CEO Kathy Trahan spoke at the conference’s opening general session and gave a brief overview of Alliance Safety Council’s rich history, products and services.

Alliance Safety Council President and CEO Kathy Trahan spoke at the opening general session.

The Louisiana Governor’s Conference offered its own custom workshop track. Topics ranged from organizational factors that contribute to errors to the evolution of drug testing in workplaces.

Attendees also enjoyed performances from a traditional brass band, a second line leading to the Louisiana Governor’s Conference special section in the exhibit hall, a morning break with genuine king cakes and even Mardi Gras Indians.

Next year, the Louisiana Governor’s Safety & Health Conference will be back in Baton Rouge October 1-2. Be sure to visit www.thesafetyexpo. com for additional coverage of this year’s conference.

The Alliance Safety Council team greeted attendees from the Lagniappe Center (the information booth for the Louisiana Governor’s Conference).

14

www.abcpelican.org

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15

LE GA L

IS IT REALLY THE GOVERNMENT’S FAULT?

BY JACOB ROUSSEL, BREAZEALE, SACHSE & WILSON, L.L.P. On August 28, 2017, the United States Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals affirmed a judgment of the District Court in Sewell v.

Sewerage & Water Bd. of New Orleans, dismissing claims against three contractors on the basis of a defense known as the “government contractor defense.” This defense can serve as a valuable tool for contractors against whom claims are asserted arising out of work performed for the government. The defense is based on the doctrine of derivative immunity, which is intended to prevent the contractor from being held liable when the government is actually at fault. In other words, it is an extension of the immunity afforded to the federal government for the performance of discretionary actions. As stated by the Fifth Circuit in Sewell, “contractors hired by the federal government are shielded from liability subject to certain conditions.” In order for the government contractor defense to apply, (1) the government must have approved reasonably precise specifications; (2) the equipment or work must have conformed to those specifications; and (3) the contractor must have warned of any dangers that were known to the contractor but not to the government.

The Sewell case involved portions the Southeast Louisiana Drainage Project, a federally funded project co-sponsored by Sewage and Water Board of New Orleans and the United States Army Corps of Engineers intended to improve drainage and prevent flooding in certain areas. The litigation was initiated by owners of homes and businesses located near portions of the project in Uptown New Orleans, alleging damages arising 16

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from the construction. The claims were originally brought against the Sewage and Water Board, which then asserted third-party demands against the contractors that performed the portions of the work on which the allegations were based.

The contractors later moved for dismissal of the claims based upon the government contractor defense.

In consideration of the first of the three prongs of the defense, the specifications at issue must address, in reasonable detail, the product design feature alleged to be defective. The government need not have prepared the specifications to be considered to have approved them. Rather, government approval of those specifications simply requires meaningful, substantive review. For instance, in Sewell, the Court found that this element of the government contractor defense was established because “when it came to actual construction, the Contractors proceeded in hand with detailed instructions, substantively blessed by [the Army Corps of Engineers]” and that “[the Army Corps of Engineers] was the agent of decision on all critical features of the work, as demonstrated by its level of involvement.”

LE GA L The second prong of the defense requires the contractor to have performed the work in accordance with the approved specifications. Conformity may be shown by evidence that the government supervised and controlled the implementation of the specifications, or that it accepted and used the work following completion. In the absence of conflicting evidence, the government’s written acceptance of a contractor’s work constitutes compelling proof of conformity.

Finally, as to the third prong, the contractor must have not been aware of reasons, not known to the government, that would make the implementation of the specifications unsafe or unreasonable. In Sewell, the Court found this element was met because the government already knew that certain risks were associated with vibration-causing construction

activities and water table manipulation, such as the risk of cracking in nearby structures and subsidence of the surface.

In fact, the Court stated that such risks were “inherent” to some of the construction activities which were required for the projects when those activities are performed in an urban area.

Because the contractors established the requisite elements of the government contractor defense, the claims against them were dismissed. Thus, the Sewell case serves as a wellreasoned example of a scenario in which private contractors are entitled to immunity when their potential liability is actually derived from the actions or inactions of the government.

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17

PELICAN CHAPTER, ASSOCIATED BUILDERS & CONTRAC TORS, INC.

14 MONTHS 12 MONTHS FOR THE PRICE OF

Get your Pelican Chapter, ABC membership for 14 MONTHS FOR THE PRICE OF 12 MONTHS! Any company that joins effective November 1, 2017 will receive the remainder of 2017 and all of 2018 for the price of 12 months of membership.

WHAT DOES AN ABC MEMBERSHIP GIVE YOU ACCESS TO? • Business development opportunities • Governmental relations representation nationally & locally • Access to craft training for employees • Members only discount programs Start enjoying these and all benefits ABC can offer today!

Rules: Membership application and payment must be submitted to ABC

by October 18, 2017.

For more information, contact Anna Zebeau at azebeau@abcpelican.com or 225-753-2541.

18

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NOVEMBER 5–9, 2017 ORLANDO $50 SAVE ING

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Register today at leadership.abc.org

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www.abcpelican.org

19

AT T ORN E Y GEN ER A L C O LU M N

Hurricane Season Scams Attorney General Jeff Landry Alerts Consumers to Beware of Hurricane Season Scams.

Scammers and con artists see the aftermath of a natural disaster as an opportunity to take advantage of Louisiana citizens trying to rebuild and get their lives back to normal. And while the Atlantic hurricane season runs from June through November the most powerful storms tend to form in the Atlantic, Caribbean, and Gulf of Mexico during the 10-week stretch from mid-August through October.

Attorney General Jeff Landry wants consumers to remember that the heart of hurricane season is also when stormchasing scammers find opportunities to swindle consumers.

“When storms strike, so do scam artists,” said General Landry. “Now is a good time for consumers to stay alert, be informed, and learn how to recognize and avoid common disasterrelated scams.”

General Landry urges residents to spot these common disaster-related scams: Identity Theft - Safeguard your personal information in the event of an evacuation.

Take your sensitive personal documents with you or put them in a secure, waterproof location such as a 20

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safe deposit box or home safe. Personal information items may include your passport, credit cards, checkbooks, car registration, home title, insurance contracts, college degrees, health insurance cards, Social Security cards, and birth and marriage certificates.

Repair Scams - Before allowing someone to repair your damaged property, check out his or her credentials.

Verify potential contractors by calling the Louisiana State Licensing Board for Contractors at 800-256-1392. Get at least three written estimates and make sure each contractor bids on exactly the same work. Always require the contractor to show proof of workman’s compensation and general liability insurance. Do not agree to a large down payment. Get a contract in writing and keep a copy of it in a safe place. Pay by check or money order and keep all receipts.

Price Gouging - Report suspected price gouging to local law enforcement.

Price gouging is the increase in prices or value for goods and services that are higher than the prices ordinarily charged for comparable goods and services at or immediately before the time of the state of emergency. A

price gouging ban is placed on an area following the declaration of a state of emergency by the Governor or Parish President. This ban can remain in effect up to 30 days after the state of emergency ends.

Phony Emergency Response Officials - Watch out for con-artists who pose as government officials or insurance adjusters.

Verify people posing as government officials or insurance adjusters by asking for proper identification. Do not give out any information until you have checked with the actual agency or insurance company the person claims to represent. Never give cash on the spot to any individual who shows up claiming to be an insurance agent or disaster aid worker.

Fake Charities - Before donating, make sure the charity is legitimate.

Visit www.guidestar.org to find out if the charity is actually an IRS 501(c)(3) tax exempt organization. Contact General Landry’s Charitable Registration Section, the Louisiana Secretary of State’s Corporations Database, and the Better Business Bureau before you donate.

MEM BE RS H IP

SECOND QUARTER

NEW MEMBERS A3IM, Inc. Tricia Elliott 6655 Exchequer Drive, Baton Rouge, LA 70809 (713) 378-7600 www.a3im.com Joined: April Supplier: Basic Electrical Materials & Methods, Industrial & Process Equipment

National Toilet Rentals Nicole Epps 250 Highlandia Drive, Baton Rouge, LA 70810 (225) 253-9643 www.ntrtoilets.com Joined: April Supplier: Portable Toilets, Portable Handwashing Stations Sponsor: Carlos Guidry, Turner Industries Group, LLC

Dilling Group, Inc. Kim Schippers 111 East Mildred Street, Logansport, IN 46947 (574) 753-3182 www.dillinggroup.com Joined: June Contractor: Industrical, Mechanical, Industrial Process Piping

Renaissance Baton Rouge Hotel

Allison Crump 7000 Bluebonnet Boulevard, Baton Rouge, LA 70810 (225) 215-7000 www.marriott.com/btrbb Joined: April Supplier: Meeting & Event Facilities, Room Accommodations

Intertek - PSI Richard Schatzle 11950 Industriplex Boulevard, Baton Rouge, LA 70809 (225) 293-8378 www.psiusa.com Joined: May Industry Professional: Engineer

StarCom Solar, Inc. Gary Stark 4052 Washington Boulevard, Beaumont, TX 77705 (409) 842-8988 www.starcomsolar.com Joined: April Contractor: Other Specialty Construction Sponsor: Wesley Littleton, The Brock Group

L’Auberge Casino and Hotel Baton Rouge Lauren Regner 777 L’Auberge Avenue, Baton Rouge, LA 70820 (225) 224-4139 www.lbatonrouge.com Joined: June Supplier: Meeting & Event Facilities, Room Accommodations Sponsor: Danielle Gueho, Cook Hotel & Conference Center

Tech Advocate Group (TAG) Natalie Noel 7914 Wrenwood Blvd. Suite D, Baton Rouge, LA 70809 (225) 442-3158 www.wearetag.com Joined: April Industry Professional: Advertising, Consulting, Developer Sponsor: David Mayer, Barriere Construction Co., LLC

Marine & Industrial Supply Scott Brignac 37108 Easley Melancon Road, Prairieville, LA 70769 (225) 673-6685 www.marineandindustrial.com Joined: May Supplier: Hoists & Cranes, Inspection & Testing, Rigging Shop, Manufacturing of Wire Rope & Slings

United Safety Allison Mire 12420 Allison Drive, Geismar, LA 70734 (225) 290-6061 www.unitedsafety.net Joined: April Supplier: Safety Consultant, Audio Visual Equipment, Contract Labor, Safety & Medical Support Services

www.abcpelican.org

21

MEM BE RS H IP

THIRD QUARTER

NEW MEMBERS Angelo’s Lawn-Scape of Louisiana, Inc. Angelo Distefano 13750 Jefferson Highway, Baton Rouge, LA 70879 (225) 753-5296 www.angeloslawnscape.com Joined: August Contractor: Landscaping & Irrigation, Site Utilities Sponsor: Josh Rounds, Performance Contractors, LLC

Cajun Concrete Services, LLC Brett Ruppel 740 Carondelet Street, New Orleans, LA 70130 (504) 827-1111 www.cajunconcrete.com Joined: July Contractor: Cast-in-place Concrete, Concrete Framework & Reinforcing

Chaney Mechanical, LLC Doug Chaney 8437A Joor Road, Baton Rouge, LA 70818 (225) 261-0999 Joined: July Contractor: Mechanical, HVAC, Basic Materials & Methods

Fishbone Energy Services William Cain 212 East X Street, Deer Park, TX 77536 (281) 476-9888 www.fishbonesafetysolutions.com Joined: August Contractor: General Contractor - Construction Manager Sponsor: Greg Copponex, Praxair

GHX Industrial, LLC Nate Washington 212 Teal Road, Sulphur, LA 70665 (337) 882-0428 www.ghxinc.com Joined: July Supplier: Industrial Bolting, Fasteners, Heat Exchanger Sponsor: Wesley Littleton, The Brock Group

Industrial Tent Systems Tim Bolton 10934 Hazelhurst Drive Houston, TX 77043 (713) 468-3687 www.indudstrialtentsystems.com Joined: July Supplier: Warehousing, Tent, Table, Chair Rentals

Core Electrical Contractors, LLC Tevin Wade 10720 South Choctaw Drive, Baton Rouge, LA 70815 (225) 930-5659 www.coreelectrical.net Joined: July Contractor: Electrical, Communications, Industrial Electric Work

EnerMech Mechanical Services, Inc. David O’Riordan 14000 West Road, Houston, TX 77041 (281) 477-7828 www.enermech.com Joined: July Contractor: Mechanical, Electric, Inspection & Testing

Mid County Automotive Patrick Camfield 8181 Memorial Boulevard, Port Arthur, TX 77640 (409) 237-5500 www.midcountydodge.com Joined: August Supplier: Automotive Dealership Sponsor: Ellie Courmier, Briggs Equipment

Nationwide Skilled Trades, Inc. Blake Coxe 17425 Jefferson Highway, Unit B, Baton Rouge, LA 70817 (225) 960-3548 www.nationwideskilledtrades.com Joined: July Contractor: Business Services, Contract Labor

22

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MEM BE RS H IP

THIRD QUARTER

NEW MEMBERS PlanGrid Dan Parry 5225 Camp Street, New Orleans, LA 70115 (504) 376-3850 www.plangrid.com

Joined: August Industry Professional: Construction Documentation & Aids Sponsor: Andy Lopez, Cajun Industries, LLC

Ritter Forest Products James Cowart 44520 Brignac Street, Sorrento, LA 70778 (225) 675-6655 www.ritterforest.com Joined: August Supplier: Equipment Rental/Sales/Service Sponsor: Beth Olinde

Sun Industrial Group, LLC John Cradure 1 Lakeshore Drive, Suite 1450, Lake Charles, LA 70629 (337) 419-2470 www.sunindustrialgroupllc.com Joined: August Contractor: Industrial, Maintenance Sponsor: Wayne Soileau, United Rentals

Tindall Corporation Ken Carr 2273 Hayne Street, Spartanburg, SC 29301 (832) 547-4595 www.tindallcorp.com Joined: August Supplier: Cast-in-place Concrete, Precast Concrete Sponsor: Willie Lefever, Performance Contractors

Waste Management - Baton Rouge Steve Smith 15505 Industry Way, Walker, LA 70785 (225) 268-9427 www.wm.com Joined: September Supplier: Portable Toilets, Trash & Debris Removal, Construction Debris Containers

Work Designs, LLC Michael Tanner 302 Unatex Road, Eunice, LA 70535 (337) 432-0003 www.workdesigns.com Joined: July Supplier: Signs, Safety Apparel, Industrial Uniforms Sponsor: Delisa Chaumont, Greenberry Industrial

www.abcpelican.org

23

PELICAN CHAPTER, ASSOCIATED BUILDERS & CONTRACTORS

CALE N DAR OF EVEN T S CLAY SHOOTS

FISHING RODEOS

2017 EVENTS GOLF TOURNEYS

JANUARY

MEMBER MIXERS

STATE

CONVENTION

FEBRUARY

COOK-OFFS CRAWFISH BOILS

ICC LUNCHEONS

MARCH

5 SWTC Fall 2016 Graduation 23 Member Mixer, Baton Rouge 12 EIC & Officer Installation Banquet 19 Member Mixer, Baton Rouge 26 BRTC Fall 2016 Graduation

17 Golf Tournament, Baton Rouge 21 Prospecting Workshop

APRIL

MAY

JUNE

4 Interpersonal Comm. Workshop 20 Crawfish Boil, Baton Rouge 28 Golf Tournament, Lake Charles

2 ABC of LA Legis. Day & Reception 11 Crawfish Boil, Lake Charles 18-20 ABC of LA Fishing Rodeo 25 Member Mixer, Lake Charles

22 BRTC Spring 2017 Graduation 22 SWTC Spring 2017 Graduation 29 Member Mixer, Baton Rouge

JULY

AUGUST

SEPTEMBER

14 Southwest Fishing Tournament 26-29 ABC of LA State Convention

10 Uncommon Leadership Kick-off 29 ICC Breakfast w/ Garret Graves

7 Member Mixer, Lake Charles 11 Golf Tournament, Baton Rouge

OCTOBER

NOVEMBER

DECEMBER

6 Clay Shoot, Baton Rouge 13 Clay Shoot, Lake Charles 26 Member Mixer, Baton Rouge

2 Construction Economic Forum 9 BR Jambalaya & Gumbo Cook-off 16 ICC Luncheon w/ STEP Awards 30 Member Mixer, Lake Charles

6 EIC Awards Banquet

Updated 9/18/17 Register for events online at abcpelican.org. Contact Lindsey Russ at Dates to be determined are marked as xx.

Visit abcpelican.org more information.opportunities. lruss@abcpelican.com for more information on eventsforand sponsorship 24

www.abcpelican.org

CERTIFIED

WORKFORCE

Ready to take the next step?

To take your business to the next level, you need a banking partner who not only understands the challenges of your industry, but also the unique needs of your business and your local market. That’s why the Regions Bankers right here in South Louisiana can deliver the resources of a large bank with the local market understanding and responsiveness of a community bank. So whether it’s a smart leasing solution, cutting-edge Treasury Management capability or traditional loans and deposits, your local Regions Banker will be right here to deliver the customized service and solutions that give you a competitive advantage.

Call us at 225.388.2701 for advice, guidance and education on ways to move your business forward.

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© 2017 Regions. All loans and leases subject to credit approval. I Regions and the Regions logo are registered trademarks of Regions Bank. The LifeGreen color is a trademark of Regions Bank.

www.abcpelican.org

25

in ca se you m i s s ed i t. . .

SOUTHWEST FISHING TOURNAMENT JULY 14, CALCASIEU POINT LANDING

BR TRAINING CENTER GRADUATION JUNE 22, L’AUBERGE BATON ROUGE

ICC BREAKFAST WITH GARRET GRAVES AUGUST 29, RENAISSANCE BATON ROUGE

26

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in ca se you m i s s ed i t. . .

ABCLA STATE CONVENTION JULY 26-29, HILTON SANDESTIN

GOLF TOURNAMENT, BATON ROUGE SEPTEMBER 11, UNIVERSITY CLUB

BATON ROUGE BLOOD DRIVE

AUGUST 29-31, BATON ROUGE TRAINING CENTER

www.abcpelican.org

27

CHA P T E R NE W S B R I EFS SUCCESSFUL UPGRADE 203 UNITS OF BLOOD TRAINING COURSE DONATED IN BLOOD Skills upgrade training in electrical, DRIVE millwright and pipefitting was offered at the BRTC Friday, July 14th at 8:00 a.m. through the following weekend.

The participants attended class for 9 hours per day for 4 days. Members of Education and Manpower evaluated the classes and saw a significant improvement in overall scores. These upgrade classes will continue to run quarterly or on a monthly based upon demand. These classes are self funded and will not utilize cents per man hour.

FALL SEMESTER OFF TO A GREAT START Both the Baton Rouge and Southwest Training Centers had a great start to the fall semester. In Baton Rouge, the enrollment count as of August 14 is 1,162. In Westlake, the enrollment count as of September 14 is .

The Supplemental Course Academy (Course Choice) classes started on August 14, with 123 in attendance.

Enrollment in Course Choice is still ongoing.

The United Blood Service buses parked at the Baton Rouge Training Center on the evenings of August 29-31.

A total of 203 units of blood were donated. The training center extends a warm thank you to all who donated, especially considering the bad weather that prevented many students from attending classes that week. We look forward to hosting the United Blood Service again.

YOUNG PROFESSIONAL GROUP EXPANDS TO LAKE CHARLES The popular contractor Young Professional committee formed in the Baton Rouge region extended its arm to the Southwest region in July.

ISC Constructors hosted around 20 contractor members under the age of 40 at its Sulphur office on July 20.

Attendees heard from John Schempf, who was a founding member of the ABC Pelican Young Professionals Committee in 2012. We are looking

forward to growing this committee in the Southwest region. Contact Jennifer Finley at jfinley@abcpelican.com for more information.

BATON ROUGE YOUNG PROFESSIONALS RAISE MONEY FOR FEA The Young Professionals in Baton Rouge are raising money for the Free Enterprise Alliance (FEA) through a raffle of a chartered tuna fishing trip out of Orange Beach, Ala. FEA is the action arm for small businesses, entrepeneurs, and open and fair competition. Tickets are $25, and are for sale through a YP member; all are welcome to purchase a ticket. Contact Jennifer Finley at jfinley@abcpelican. com to get your ticket. Winner will be selected at the October 19 YP meeting.

Does not need to be present to win.

WORKFORCE 1400

1162

1200 1000

916

800

BRTC SWTC

600 400

260

216 200

112

73

0

Fall 2016 Graduates

28

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Spring 2017 Graduates

Fall 2017 Enrollment

PELICAN CHAPTER STAFF CHAPTER OPERATIONS (225) 752-1415 Katherine Fremin Carver Communications Coordinator kcarver@abcpelican.com Jennifer Finley Chief Operating Officer jfinley@abcpelican.com Meredith Prochaska Administrative Assistant receptionist@abcpelican.com

Lindsey Russ Programs & Events Coordinator lruss@abcpelican.com Sarah Taylor Interim President staylor@abcpelican.com Anna Zebeau Director of Membership azebeau@abcpelican.com;

FINANCE (225) 752-1415 Janie Arceneaux Director of Finance jarceneaux@abcpelican.com

Kathy Serwan Finance Assistant kswerwan@abcpelican.com

Mikah Armstrong Finance Assistant marmstrong@abcpelican.com

Danielle Birney Ricky Delafield Director of Administration Workforce Development dbirney@abcpelican.com Coordinator rdelafield@abcpelican.com Kacie Blanchard Associate Director of Misty Massarek Workforce Support Training Center Administration kblanchard@abcpelican.com mmassarek@abcpelican.com Katie Verbois Training Center Administration kverbois@abcpelican.com

SLCUC Training September 19 @ 11:30 AM SW Training Center ifuselier@abcpelican.com

BR Membership Growth October 18 @ 8:00 AM Chapter Administration azebeau@abcpelican.com

Budget & Finance September 19 @ 4:00 PM Chapter Administration jarceneaux@abcpelican.com

Young Professionals, Baton Rouge October 19 @ 4:30 PM Versa Integrity Group, Geismar jfinley@abcpelican.com

BR Membership Growth September 20 @ 8:00 AM Chapter Administration azebeau@abcpelican.com

NOVEMBER

Young Professionals, Lake Charles September 21 @ 5:30 PM Performance Contractors, Sulphur jfinley@abcpelican.com

SOUTHWEST TRAINING CENTER (337) 882-0204 Kirby Bruchhaus Director of Education kbruchhaus@abcpelican.com

Ciera Henson Training Center Administration chenson@abcpelican.com

Christina Frederick Training Center Administration cfrederick@abcpelican.com

Ray Harris Facilities Management rharris@abcpelican.com

BR Safety November 2 @ 7:30 AM BR Training Center kblanchard@abcpelican.com SW Safety November 7 @ 11:30 AM BR Training Center ifuselier@abcpelican.com

SW Safety October 3 @ 11:30 AM SW Training Center ifuselier@abcpelican.com

BR Programs & Events November 8 @ 8:00 AM Chapter Administration lruss@abcpelican.com

BR Safety October 5 @ 7:30 AM BR Training Center kblanchard@abcpelican.com

Education & Manpower November 9 @ 2:00 PM BR Training Center kcarpenter@abcpelican.com

Acadiana Membership Growth October 10 @ 9:00 AM azebeau@abcpelican.com

SW Programs & Events November 14 @ 10:00 AM Chapter Administration lruss@abcpelican.com

SW Steering October 10 @ 11:30 AM SW Training Center ifuselier@abcpelican.com SW Membership Growth October 10 @ 12:30 PM SW Training Center azebeau@abcpelican.com

Kelly Carpenter Director of Education kcarpenter@abcpelican.com

Ivelynn Fuselier Training Center Administration ifuselier@abcpelican.com

SE PTE MB E R

OCTOBER

BATON ROUGE TRAINING CENTER (225) 752-0088

Tiffany Buuck Training Center Administration tbuuck@abcpelican.com

fo urth qua rte r CO MMITTE E MEETINGS

BR Programs & Events October 11 @ 8:00 AM Chapter Administration lruss@abcpelican.com Education & Manpower October 12 @ 2:00 PM BR Training Center kcarpenter@abcpelican.com SLCUC Training October 17 @ 11:30 AM SW Training Center ifuselier@abcpelican.com Budget & Finance October 17 @ 4:00 PM Chapter Administration jarceneaux@abcpelican.com

SW Steering November 14 @ 11:30 AM SW Training Center ifuselier@abcpelican.com SW Membership Growth November 14 @ 12:30 PM SW Training Center azebeau@abcpelican.com BR Membership Growth November 15 @ 8:00 AM Chapter Administration azebeau@abcpelican.com SLCUC Training November 21 @ 11:30 AM SW Training Center ifuselier@abcpelican.com Budget & Finance November 21 @ 4:00 PM Chapter Administration jarceneaux@abcpelican.com

www.abcpelican.org

29

ow N r te R eg is

JW Marriott New Orleans | Oct. 19–20, 2017

ABC contractors – register today and invite your project owners to join you! You don’t want to miss this opportunity!

The exclusive ABC Users Summit brings together top construction users and merit shop contractors for interactive discussions about how to collaboratively improve upon the planning and delivery of high-quality construction projects. From automation and technology to contracting strategies, safety performance and the latest economic outlook, this event creates an environment where you can refine your skills and engage in open discussions with your peers.

Plus, registration is complimentary for health care and industrial users and developers.

Visit userssummit.abc.org to view the full agenda and to register.