AUGUST 2011
VOL. 32 • NO. 7 • $4.00 ®
IN THIS ISSUE:
“VOICE OF THE CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY”
CONSTRUCTION LAW Tips for Starting a Business Enterprise Design Professionals’ Potential Liability
INTERIORS / FINISHES The Old as ReNEWable: Taking a 2nd Look at Tried and True Materials
Hot Colors and Cool Interior Designs ACT HONORS INTEX WINNERS AND FINALISTS ALSO IN THIS ISSUE: UNIVERSITY PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN ROCHESTER HILLS – LETS ITS LIGHT SHINE
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CAM MAGAZINE
AUGUST 2011
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INTERIORS / FINISHES
“VOIC E OF TH E CONSTR UCTION I N DUSTRY”®
FEATURES
21 ACT Honors 2010 INTEX Winners and Finalists
10 Marketing on the Level
24 Greenprint for the Future
The Power of the Press...Release
The OLD as ReNEWable
11 Event Recap: CAM-BIA Mid-Year Economic Forecast
CONSTRUCTION HIGHLIGHT
Successful Meeting of the Minds
12 Mental Gymnastics DeMaria Building Company Transforms the Second Floor of the Old Education Building at Henry Ford Health System
25 A Window to the Soul University Presbyterian Church in Rochester Hills Lets Its Light Shine
CONSTRUCTION LAW 16 Tips for Starting a Business Enterprise Get Started and Stay Strong
17 Michigan Supreme Court Expands Liability Exposure for Contractors 18 Legitimate Concern or Interference with Business Expectation? Design Professionals’ Potential Liability for Interference with Business Expectation When Recommending Against Awarding Project to Lowest Bidding Contractor
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DEPARTMENTS 8 9 28 32 33 34 34 34
Industry News Safety Tool Kit Product Showcase People in Construction Construction Calendar Buyers Guide Updates CAM Welcomes New Members Advertisers Index
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CAM MAGAZINE
AUGUST 2011
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PUBLISHER EDITOR
Kevin N. Koehler Amanda M. Tackett
ASSOCIATE EDITORS
Mary E. Kremposky David R. Miller
PRODUCTION DIRECTOR GRAPHIC DESIGN DIRECTOR OF MARKETING ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE
Matthew J. Austermann Marci L. Christian Gregg A. Montowski Cathy A. Jones
DIRECTORS OFFICERS Chairman
James C. Capo, AIA, DeMattia Group
Vice Chairman
Stephen J. Auger, AIA, Stephen Auger + Associates Architects
Vice Chairman
Jacqueline LaDuke Walters, LaDuke Roofing & Sheet Metal
Treasurer
Frank G. Nehr, Jr.,
President
Kevin N. Koehler
Davis Iron Works
Gregory Andrzejewski,
DIRECTORS
PPG Industries
M. James Brennan, Broadcast Design & Construction, Inc.
Kevin French, Poncraft Door Company
Todd W. Hill, Ventcon, Inc.
Mary K. Marble, Marble Mechanical, LLC
Donald J. Purdie, Jr., Detroit Elevator Company
Eric C. Steck, Amalio Corporation
Kurt F. Von Koss, Beaver Tile & Stone
2006 GRAPHIC DESIGN USA MARCOM International Creative Awards
AMERICAN INHOUSE DESIGN AWARD
Gallery of Fine Printing 2002 Bronze Award
2005 Gold Award
Michigan Society of Association Executives 2002, 2004, 2005 & 2007 Diamond Award 2003, 2006, 2010 Honorable Mention
The Communicator International Print Media Competition Overall Association Magazine Magazine Writing
CAM Magazine (ISSN08837880) is published monthly by the Construction Association of Michigan, 43636 Woodward Ave., P.O. Box 3204, Bloomfield Hills, MI 48302-3204 (248) 972-1000. $24.00 of annual membership dues is allocated to a subscription to CAM Magazine. Additional subscriptions $40.00 annually. Periodical postage paid at Bloomfield Hills, MI and additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER, SEND ADDRESS CHANGES TO: CAM MAGAZINE, 43636 WOODWARD AVE., BLOOMFIELD HILLS, MI 48302-3204. For editorial comment or more information: magazine@cam-online.com. For reprints or to sell CAM Magazine: 248-972-1000. Copyright © 2008 Construction Association of Michigan. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without permission is prohibited. CAM Magazine is a registered trademark of the Construction Association of Michigan.
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CAM MAGAZINE
AUGUST 2011
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INDUSTRY
NEWS
Curtis Glass Celebrates 25 Years in Business Curtis Glass Company is celebrating 25 years in business in 2011. This enterprising commercial glazing contractor began operations in a 3,000-square-foot multi-tenant space. A quarter century later, Curtis Glass is going strong with operations headquartered in a 35,000-square-foot building on Maple Road in Troy. Curtis Glass “kicked off” its celebration shortly before 2011 with the official grand opening of the University of Michigan Football Stadium Expansion in fall 2010. With Barton Malow Company as construction manager, Curtis Glass completed the 80,000-square-foot
“field side” portion of a project the company views as its new high-water mark. Curtis Glass plays in its own version of the Big 10. This prominent project for the University of Michigan’s “Big House” was fabricated in-house even as Curtis Glass completed work on the 10-story University of Michigan Kellogg Eye Center, and continued work on a 10-story addition for St. Joseph Mercy Hospital. In addition, Curtis Glass was also working on the McLaren Cancer Center, two Target stores, and the new high school in Marysville. “The capacity of our shop and the skill of our tradesmen allow us to give our customers what they want, when they need it, as well as to customize the work to meet their requirements,” said Rob Luscombe, president of Curtis Glass. “It just speaks volumes on the quality of the people who make up this team,” continues Luscombe. “As I reflect on years past, I realize our growth spurts correspond closely with the acquisition of key personnel. A company’s human resources are its most valuable asset. Those with the best team stand the best chance of surviving this economic downturn. Good trucks, buildings, and tools are necessary, but without smart, hardworking, and clever
people to take advantage of those tangible assets, where are you? Good decisions at the right time keep your bottom line in the black. Repeat business has a lot more to do with quality work than corner cutting. Last year was one of our best, and it has more to do with our team than any other factor. “I was fortunate to have benefited from mentor, Mickey Laviolette,” continued Luscombe. “He walked into my dad’s store some 30 years ago and changed my way of thinking. Mickey passed away in 2004, but his ideas played a major role in the growth of Curtis Glass, and made clear the importance of surrounding yourself with the best people you can attract.” Congratulations, Curtis Glass, on 25 years of successful, quality projects!
Zurich and RISC Form New Demolition Select Insurance Program for Demolition and Wrecking Contractors Zurich, one of the leading writers of programs in the U.S., recently announced it is working with nationally known wholesaler and program administrator, RISC, Inc., to offer a new
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program for demolition and wrecking contractors called Demolition Select. This new program is designed to help protect debris removal businesses, salvage operations, wrecking companies and businesses specializing in underpinning buildings from the unique risks they face on a daily basis. Zurich and RISC’s new Demolition Select program offers coverages for general and excess liability, property and inland marine, as well as commercial auto. The following extensions are also available through this program: blanket additional insured, per job aggregate, blanket waiver of rights, employee benefits liability, and direct billing. The Demolition Select program is available nationwide and written on an admitted basis. RISC will distribute this new program, underwritten by Zurich American Insurance Company, through retail agents and wholesale brokers. This is the fourth insurance program Zurich is working on with RISC. In addition to the Demolition Select program, Zurich also provides a roofing, oil/gas and fire sprinkler program to its customers through RISC. For more information about the new Demolition
Select program, please visit http://zprogramsmatch.com/ProgramView.asp
Sachse Construction and Broder & Sachse Real Estate Services Raise More Than $40,000 During Annual “Play It Foreward” Charity Golf Outing 100 percent of proceeds to go to University of Michigan Comprehensive Cancer Center Sache Construction and Broder & Sachse Real Estate Services hosted their annual “Play It Foreward” Charity Golf Outing at the Twin Lakes Golf & Swim Club in Rochester in late June. The event raised more than $40,000 towards education, research and treatment of cancer for the University of Michigan Comprehensive Cancer Center. “Sachse Construction and Broder & Sachse Real Estate Services are committed to making a positive difference in Michigan communities,” said Todd Sachse, president, Sachse Construction, and vice president, Broder & Sachse Real Estate Services. “Every day, the University of Michigan Comprehensive Cancer Center makes
tremendous strides in the battle against cancer, and we’re proud to contribute to such an important organization.” The 2011 “Play It Foreward” Charity Golf Outing had 61 sponsors and was sold out. 100 percent of the event proceeds will go to the UM Comprehensive Cancer Center. “Each year, I am impressed by the employees, families and friends who participate in the annual golf outing, and this year was not an exception,” said Richard Broder, CEO, Broder & Sachse Real Estate Services. “Their efforts continue to make this event an annual success and positively impact local organizations.” Sachse Construction and Broder & Sachse Real Estate Services have sponsored numerous golf outings, raising more than $180,000 to benefit charities such as the Bear Hug Foundation, Make A Wish Foundation, Michigan Humane Society and Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Institute. The University of Michigan Comprehensive Cancer Center is one of only 40 U.S. centers to earn the Cancer Institute’s “comprehensive” designation, and is also a founding member of the Comprehensive Cancer Network.
SAFETY TOOL KIT Who You Gonna Call? By Joe Forgue
ake just a minute to give some thought to what you would do in case of an emergency on your jobsite. Most of us Joseph M. Forgue would answer, “I’d call 9-1-1.” Hopefully that’s Director of Education not your plan because it just plain doesn’t work & Safety Services that way. Let’s take three examples: 1) A worker falls from the third floor of a new medical office building but is caught by his harness; 2) A worker is buried in a seven-foot trench collapse; 3) A worker is overcome by carbon monoxide in a confined space. You make a quick assessment of the situation and decide to call 9-1-1. Let’s assume that you have cellular service, as we all know that can vary widely, even on the same jobsite. We’ll also assume that your battery is charged and the area you’re in has a 9-1-1 response system. You reach the emergency operator whose first question is, “Where are you?” Not always an easy question. Let’s assume that all this works nicely and the cavalry begins to arrive. Most likely you’ll be getting the police, EMS, and the fire department, not necessarily in that order. What are these three entities capable of doing for you? Police officers and not trained to handle these types of emergencies, so they keep the crowd away and radio the fire department to hurry up. EMS arrives and they say, “As soon as the guy is brought down/out, we’ll
T
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help medically.” The actual rescue is left up to the fire department. The $64,000 question is: Do they have the capability to help? Maybe, maybe not. What are you going to do if they can’t? Now let’s talk time. Studies show that after about 15 minutes in a harness a victim starts to suffer from suspension trauma; after about six minutes the victim suffocates from the tons of dirt on top of them; and after just a few minutes the oxygen in the victim’s hemoglobin has been replaced by carbon monoxide. Yes, all three conditions are potentially, and usually, fatal. Not a pretty picture. There is no such thing as a good rescue when it comes right down to it. Even if all goes well, lives have been put in jeopardy along the way. Did you know that half of all trench collapse fatalities are would-be rescuers? The real answer clearly lies in prevention. No rescue is needed if the accident doesn’t happen. I’ve stressed the importance of pre-planning on many occasions, and I maintain that this is the most direct line to a safer jobsite. Improve your safety culture and the rescue issue becomes moot. If you have questions or comments, or want help with your own company’s safety program, contact me at 248-972-1141 or at forgue@cam-online.com.
CAM MAGAZINE
AUGUST 2011
9
MARKETING
ON
THE
LEVEL
The Power of the Press… Release arketing is more about telling than selling, and nothing tells a story better than a strategically placed, well-written press release, or news release. In the old days (before the Internet), a press release was actually a request to the media in hopes that they would publish the release. Not anymore. The Web has changed the rules. Today, you can reach your buyers, customers or clients directly with online press releases.
M Chris Hippler
CREATING AN ONLINE PRESS RELEASE The Internet has changed the way people look for information. A Google search can yield the information you want: links, content or references. But with the vast amount of information out there, how do you get noticed? To get noticed you need to write for two audiences: ❖ The people searching for your businesses products and services ❖ The search engines that find your content and bring it to those people Online press releases can help you do both. Develop a six-month or annual press release strategy. Then, write with your buyer in mind following these tips and you can write professional, concise and powerful press releases. Optimize, Optimize, Optimize - Search Engine Optimization (SEO) should be at the top of your list. Optimize your press release with key words, phrases and links back to your website. Done correctly, your website can reach the top of the search engine lists. Start Strong - With only a matter of seconds to grab your readers’ attention, you need a strong, direct opening. Your headline, summary and first paragraph should clarify your news. The rest of your release should provide the detail. Identify Yourself - If your release does not identify the source of the
information within the first few paragraphs, you may lose the promotional value that your release can provide. Write Professionally - This is not the place for hype, slang, or excessive exclamation points. Being viewed as an advertisement rather than a press release will hurt your credibility. Post Press Releases on Your Website - Your website should have a section dedicated to press releases. Make sure you include inbound links and optimized key phrases so that search engines will rank your site higher. Limit Jargon - The best way to communicate is to speak plainly using ordinary language. Using an abundance of technical language and jargon can limit your reading audience. Use Anchor Text and Features - Most distribution companies can accommodate multimedia files like images, video, and links that capture the attention of your readers and highlight your news. Attach logos, product shots, photographs, video files, or PDF documents that build up your release. Anchor text and hyperlinks will also point readers back to your site. This will ensure both your website and your important keywords receive simultaneous promotion in your press release. Written well and distributed correctly, press releases can be an important part of your overall marketing plan. FREE STUFF Press Release distribution companies vary quite a bit with different costs, plans, and tracking tools. We’ve done the legwork for you: contact Capital Letters and we will send you our list of preferred vendors. “Marketing on the Level” is a new monthly feature for CAM Magazine written specifically for the construction industry by CAM Member Chris Hippler. For more marketing strategies, visit Capital Letters at website: www.capitallettersmarketing.com. Got an idea for a column or a question about marketing? Contact Chris by e-mail: chris@capitallettersmarketing.com or phone 734-353-9918.
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AUGUST 2011
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CAM
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EVENT RECAP: CAM-BIA MID-YEAR ECONOMIC FORECAST
early 250 construction Brad Comm Haege ent, Kojo D professionals attended apo & Glenn om, Patrick C es m Ja D o n O’Connell & Baker, the CAM-BIA Mid-Year John Hartw ell Economic Forecast, held on Wednesday, June 29 at the Best Western Sterling Inn in Sterling Heights. This was the first joint partnership event between the Construction Association of Michigan (CAM) and the Building Industry Association (BIA). Two VIP speakers were featured: Mr. Paul Traub, business economist with the Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago, and Mr. John Rakolta, Jr., chairman and CEO of Walbridge, Detroit. Both presented their views and statistics on the current state of Michigan’s business climate, especially pertaining to the construction industry. Their comments were well received, insightful and interesting. "This was by far one of the most informative economic forecasts and industry meetings that I have ever attended. The presentation of Paul Traub of the Federal Reserve-Bank of Chicago was fast paced and easily understood. The second speaker, John Rakolta, Jr. of Walbridge, was refreshingly honest and candid about our industry. John did not pull any punches; olta, Jr. ohn Rak J & he let each and every one attending the meeting know what r le eh Kevin Ko needs to happen to get Michigan's economy rolling once again," said Bruce M. Pregler, partner, Facca, Richter & Pregler, P.C. According to James Capo, VP of Design/Build at DeMattia Group and CAM’s 2011 Chairman of the Board, “The event was insightful and filled with useful data. I’m extremely pleased with the attendance we received, and the two guest speakers couldn’t have been better.” Added CAM member Chris Hippler, “Your team did a great job putting this morning's breakfast together. The speakers were a nice combination of numbers, graphs and no-nonsense straight talk, both sobering and insightful in their own right.” “As treasurer of CAM’s 2011 Board of Directors, and also as a construction business owner, the graphs and projections for the future provided by Paul Traub were extremely useful to me,” said Frank Nehr, Jr., of David Iron Works, Inc. “I really appreciated John Rakolta’s straight-forward approach when talking about the economic outlook in Michigan.” 30 Tabeto p Displays The meeting included a large cross section of the Were at th e Event commercial and residential construction industry, including the Boards of Directors of both CAM and the BIA. More joint ventures are planned for the future.
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CAM MAGAZINE
AUGUST 2011
11
ON
THE
JOBSITE
Demolition could begin right away (below), but many other parts of the project were on hold until the intricate wood-ribbed ceiling was in place (above).
Mental GyMnastics
By David R. Miller, Associate Editor
enry Ford Health System recently hired construction manager DeMaria Building Company, Detroit, and architect SmithGroup Incorporated, Detroit, to transform the second floor of the Old Education Building on the hospital’s main campus into the Henry Ford Hospital Innovation Institute - a unique meeting space where bright minds representing various disciplines can be brought together to envision the future of medicine. “There will be a large gathering space for interaction and
H
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CAM MAGAZINE
AUGUST 2011
Images Courtesy of SmithGroup Incorporated
collaboration between Henry Ford medical practitioners, Wayne State University engineering researchers and other professionals to develop cutting edge medical technologies,” explained Ann Kenyon, AIA, LEED AP, project manager for SmithGroup. The second floor of the structure was converted for office cubicles in 2007, but previous uses are obvious. Originally an auditorium, the space served as a gymnasium in more recent years. The open floor plan lends itself well to the unique type of meeting space developed “Voice Of The Construction Industry”®
different ways to phase this job. We may also need to put a scaffolding system over the entire floor to get the center cube in. We’re still working through some of those issues.” The ceiling represents an unknown variable. It is unusual enough that exact time estimates are nearly impossible. The precise condition of the structure also will not be known until the team investigates further, yet
the completion date for the project is fixed. All work must be complete by the end of August [at press time]. As visionary professionals give their minds a workout in this former athletic space, they may be quite unaware of the mental gymnastics performed by the bright project team that made it all possible.
The second floor of the Old Education Building on the Henry Ford Hospital campus served as a gymnasium in recent years, but it was converted for office cubicles in 2007.
by the project team, which will include a transparent “think tank” near the center of the room. Support spaces, including small meeting areas with a variety of configurations to support different ways of thinking, will also be found on the main floor. The existing stage and balcony areas will be refinished and utilized as conferencing space. In fact, the think tank space was moved slightly to accommodate seating for a planned TED conference that will be broadcast on the main stage. The project team is striving to create a “wow factor” that will serve as inspiration for everyone who enters the space. Much of this will be achieved by the majestic architecture of the 1920s structure itself, which features a grand staircase leading to the second floor. Existing building elements, such as the original light fixtures, will be brought from the auditorium to the lobby to maximize their impact. The entire space will be delicately restored and complemented with more contemporary design elements that will bestow a timeless quality of the finished product. One of the highlights will be a new woodribbed ceiling that will expose some of the structure of the original barrel vault. Since every piece of the ceiling will be customdesigned, lead time has emerged as an early challenge. “I can do all the demolition, I can get the mechanical and electrical up, but I’ll still be on hold until that ceiling is in place,” said Eric Dumont, project manager for DeMaria Building Company. “I won’t be able to put the center cube or the flooring in. Depending on how long it takes, we might need to look at Visit us online at www.cammagazineonline.com
Kotz, Sangster, Wysocki and Berg, P.C. Construction Law Specialists • LITIGATION • ARBITRATION • CONTRACT ADMINISTRATION • EMPLOYMENT AND LABOR • CORPORATE TRANSACTIONS • REPRESENTING - GENERAL CONTRACTORS - SUBCONTRACTORS - DEVELOPERS - OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT COMPANIES
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of the new entity. The joint venture agreement was favorable to both parties. It allowed the local construction company to pursue a project of size which was beyond the scope of its bonding capacity and allowed the national construction manager to enter into a new geographical market and diversify its project portfolio. Joint venture agreements come in a variety of shapes and sizes. In negotiating a joint venture agreement, it is imperative that the parties document how the parties will interact with one another, who will be responsible for what portion of the project, and, most importantly, what decision-making authority each party will have. It is also important to specify whether the joint venture is created to pursue a single project, a single type of project, or a variety of projects. Joint venture agreements are an excellent way for contractors to team up with one another and pursue projects that they would otherwise be unable to pursue individually. RESOLUTION OF MULTI-MILLION DOLLAR SUB-CONTRACTOR CLAIMS Beals Hubbard, PLC represented a general contractor who was sued by several subcontractors for failure to pay under the subcontracts. The general contractor had an oral agreement with the owner, but the parties had not yet executed the written prime contract. The general contractor moved forward with the project based on the oral representations of the owner and entered into the respective subcontracts. The general contractor and subcontractors provided construction services. The owner failed to pay the general contractor, declaring that there was no prime contract, and accordingly the general contractor did not pay the sub-contractors. The sub-contractors sued the owner and the general contractor for several million dollars and filed their respective claims of lien against the property. The general contractor sued the owner and filed its claim of lien, which also covered the sub-contractors’ claims. The general contractor argued first that there was an oral agreement with the owner, which required that the payments be made, and second that the sub-contractors were subject to “paid when paid” clauses. The case was successfully resolved through the efforts of the general contractor, represented by Beals Hubbard, PLC,
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who worked with all the parties to facilitate payments by the owner directly to the subcontractors for services provided, thereby limiting the general contractor’s exposure to the subcontractors. This case underscores the importance of the use of “paid when paid” clauses as well as obtaining a signed written prime contract with appropriate flow through provisions prior to commencing construction services. REVIEW OF GENERAL CONTRACTOR’S EXISTING INTERNAL CONTRACTING PROCEDURES AND IMPLEMENTATION OF NEW FORMS AND PROCEDURES A local general contractor recently engaged Beals Hubbard, PLC to review their internal contracting procedures and recommend revisions to the system necessary to create a “best practices model”. Beals Hubbard, PLC reviewed both the documents that the general contractor used, which relied heavily on AIA boilerplate forms, as well as the decision making process that the individuals issuing the purchase orders and subcontracts went through each time a purchase order or sub-contract was issued. During the review, Beals Hubbard, PLC recognized not only several deficiencies in the documents used by the general contractor, but also that there were critical steps key individuals were failing to take when
issuing sub-contracts and purchase orders. Beals Hubbard, PLC drafted new documents for the general contractor to use in place of the standard AIA forms. While AIA forms can be useful, the forms are not drafted in favor of any particular contractor (general contractor vs. sub-contractor vs. supplier). In fact, AIA forms tend to favor architects and consultants. The newly drafted forms allow the contractor to better allocate risk to its subcontractors and suppliers, as well as deter subcontractors and suppliers from filing frivolous claims against the general contractor. In addition to drafting new documents, Beals Hubbard, PLC also consulted with the key individuals who were primarily responsible for issuing sub-contracts and purchase orders. Beals Hubbard, PLC led the key employees through a best practices decision-making process. The discussion included how to best determine which terms and conditions, as well as which subcontract forms, were issued in certain hypothetical situations and scenarios. The discussion capped off a successful engagement and provided a valuable training opportunity for several of the general contractor’s key employees. This successful engagement shows how critical it is to not only have proper documents in place, but also for key individuals to have the requisite knowledge and expertise necessary to make informed decisions on a case-by-case basis.
THE FIRM HAS RECENTLY INCREASED ITS FOCUS ON FEDERAL CONTRACTING AS A RESULT OF INCREASING CLIENT NEEDS Beals Hubbard recently increased its focus on the legal issues surrounding federally funded construction projects. The federal government has exponentially increased construction funding over the past three years. Federally funded construction projects require strict compliance with a multitude of laws, codes, rules, and other enforcement mechanisms. Beals Hubbard has assisted several clients with the negotiation and drafting of federal joint venture agreements and teaming agreements, as well as the formation of entities that meet the strict requirements for small business, veteran, and minority set-aside programs. Beals Hubbard has become well versed in the area of federally funded construction projects and is well suited to advise its clients through all phases of federally funded construction projects.
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Beals Hubbard, PLC
is a full service business, commercial, and corporate law firm representing clients in business planning, transactions, and litigation. The firm’s construction practice group focuses on serving construction clients on the various issues associated with construction transactions and litigation. The firm guides clients through all phases of the construction process.
Michael J. Beals
John A. Hubbard
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Beals Hubbard routinely assists clients with the following matters: • • • • • • •
Contract Drafting and Negotiation Contract Risk Analysis Bid Proposal Review Construction Lien Issues Change Order Request Preparation and Review Pursuit and Defense of Claims Joint-Venture Formation
• Litigation (including all forms of alternative dispute resolution) • Employment Matters and Labor Relations • Real Estate and Land Use Issues • Business Formation and Reorganization • Mergers and Aquisitions
Beals Hubbard also works with clients in a support capacity throughout the construction process. Beals Hubbard fills the role of “General Counsel” for many construction firms who do not have the need for a fulltime in-house attorney. Project Managers, Executives, and other personnel routinely call Beals Hubbard for advice on matters that arise on a daily basis. Beals Hubbard works with project personnel to solve small disputes when they arise - before they become large, costly, and time consuming matters.
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Tips for Starting a Business Enterprise By W. Anthony Jenkins President, State Bar of Michigan, Dickinson Wright, PLLC fter nearly a decade of economic turmoil, we are beginning to see signs of recovery in and around Detroit, including new, small businesses coming to market. Such businesses are important in helping our region continue its recovery from the economic malaise that has gripped the area for so long, as Jenkins well as in revitalizing our national economy. Many small business enterprises have disappeared from the landscape in recent years, particularly those formerly associated with the automotive industry. Many such companies are still struggling to remain viable, although a few have managed to achieve success and growth despite the troubling economic times. More often than not, the successful ones planned ahead to offer high-quality goods and services to their customers on a timely basis and at competitive prices, and took steps to distinguish themselves in the marketplace by performing at superior levels in terms of the measurements applied by their customers in determining which companies to reward with business opportunities. For entrepreneurs considering a startup venture, here are a few tips to consider.
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GETTING STARTED Planning for the new venture is a critical first step. This process should include identifying resources needed to guide the planning and launch of the business. Great resources for researching the landscape
Your Legal Team in Michigan and Illinois Sullivan, Ward, Asher & Patton
has stood for strength, experience, dedication and teamwork for more than five decades. We provide comprehensive construction, business, transactional, and litigation services to the business community. As a client of our law firm, you will work with a team of lawyers whose experience and knowledge are especially suited to your specific legal and industry needs. You will be an integral part of that team because you know your business better than anyone else. KEVIN J. GLEESON Construction Law Practice Group Leader E-mail: kgleeson@swappc.com • www.swappc.com
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include the Michigan Small Business & Technology Development Center (www.misbtdc.org), Michigan's Network of Smart Zones (www.MichiganAdvantage.org/SmartZones), the Service Corps of Retired Executives (SCORE) (www.score.michigan.com) and a plethora of local economic development organizations, trade associations and similar organizations. A great starting place to identify such resources is www.MichiganAdvantage.org/Resources-forEnterprises. Other resources include the Office of Small and Disadvantaged Business Utilization ("OSDBU") (www.osdbu.gov) and the Small Business Administration (www.sba.gov/MI), which together help qualifying businesses with advocacy, procurement, business development and financial assistance in connection with federal procurement opportunities for small, socially disadvantaged, and HUD Zone businesses and for businesses owned by service-disabled veterans. Similarly, for State of Michigan procurement opportunities, the Buy Michigan First website (www.Michigan.gov/BuyMichiganFirst) is a good starting point for identifying opportunities. That site provides information on contract opportunities and contact information for stateemployed purchasing officials, as well as links to low or no cost resources. The programs and services offered by these government-sponsored programs often provide stepping stones for small businesses to grow and develop, and over time, to realize enhanced business opportunities. In addition to qualifying for government procurement opportunities, businesses that qualify for designation as a minority-owned business enterprise ("MBE") can access opportunities in the private sector that might not be available without that status. The MBE designation, conferred locally by the Michigan chapter of the National Minority Supplier Development Counsel ("NMSDC"), links qualifying companies with the established procurement programs of our nation's largest public and private companies, including hospitals and universities. Although not a substitute for high-quality performance, timely delivery and competitive pricing, the MBE designation is often a differentiator that places one business ahead of the pack. Participation in the NMSDC or actively identifying organizations that aggressively consider the MBE designation to be an advantage, are ways for start-up entrepreneurs to get a foot in the door. Another important and growing resource for start-up and small businesses alike is incubator programs, which as a group provide a broad array of assistance in areas such as business planning, access to capital and technology, and advanced management and operations training. Two notable local examples of successful incubator operations here in Southeast Michigan include Tech Town located near Wayne State University and Ann Arbor SPARK. Others include Oakland University's Smart “Voice Of The Construction Industry”®
Zone and the City of Southfield's Healthcare Corridor. Still others include Michigan Street Incubator, Central Michigan University Research Corp. Innovator and Kettering University Tech Work. Apart from providing small businesses with a broad range of resources and assistance, graduation from an incubator experience sometimes confers a small business with a badge of legitimacy in the eyes of public and private domain procurement officials. THE BUSINESS PLAN Developing a well conceived business plan is another critical step in the planning process for a new venture. Such plans help entrepreneurs critically assess the venture, serve as a guide once the venture is up and running, and provide a basis for financing the venture. In short, a well conceived business plan will identify strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats for the enterprise during its conception stage and beyond. Launching a new venture without a well-thought-out business plan is often a key reason for business failure. The classic elements of a business plan are an executive summary, a description of the business, a description of products and services, marketing and advertising strategies, key management personnel and expertise, a description of legal structure, financial requirements and operational systems and processes. A good resource for understanding the basics of a business plan is www.MEDG.org/startupguide. BUSINESS ALLIANCES Forming business alliances with one or more small businesses or with a larger, mentor company is an often overlooked strategy for small business owners looking for growth opportunities. Under such alliances, parties pool their resources to create a larger capacity for the providing of goods and services to customers, and to realize cost efficiencies not obtainable by going it alone. Such alliances might include sharing physical space, personnel, technology, delivery systems, and more. Of course, structuring such alliances can be tricky, and if not done properly can undermine the sought-after goals of greater capacity, cost savings and profitability. Cooperation, governance, allocating risk and rewards and agreedupon exit strategies are the key elements of properly structured business alliances. When done properly, such alliances can be a valuable tool in serving customers seamlessly and with predictability and accountability. PROFESSIONAL TEAMS A final tip to start-up businesses is the importance of developing and retaining a strong, trusting relationship with a team of professional advisors for legal, business planning, tax, financial and accounting expertise. Such professionals can help the business avoid pitfalls in its early years, and in turn enhance its prospects for sustainable, profitable growth in the long run. While every start-up business has different needs, spending time to research the available resources can offer many advantages that will bode well for the long haul. These resources may include considering government procurement opportunities; developing a solid business plan; and forming business alliances, MBE or otherwise. About the Author W. Anthony Jenkins is president of the State Bar of Michigan, and member and chief diversity officer for Dickinson Wright, PLLC. Prominent assignments include representation of the City of Detroit Downtown Development Authority in structuring and documenting development and financing of Comerica Park, Ford Field, and adjacent PricewaterhouseCoopers office building complex. Jenkins is a nationally recognized expert in certification of companies as minorityowned business enterprises, and structuring and documenting MBE joint ventures and strategic alliances. He was named to the list of Michigan Super Lawyers, Real Estate in 2007, and also received a Spirit of Detroit Award. Jenkins’ education credentials include Harvard College, BA; Princeton University, PA; and New York University Law School, JD.
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New Michigan Supreme Court Case Expands Liability Exposure for Contractors By Gary D. Quesada, Esq. CAVANAUGH | QUESADA, PLC n July 11, 2011, the Michigan Supreme Court decided the case of Miller-Davis v. Ahrens, which held Michigan’s special statute of repose, MCL 600.5839, does not apply to contract-based construction Quesada claims. The decision provides expanded opportunities for lawsuits against contractors. In 1967, Michigan enacted MCL 600.5839, the special statute of repose for claims arising from improvements to real property. § 5839 barred all claims for “injuries to persons or property” against architects, engineers and contractors that arose more than six years after “use, occupancy or acceptance” of the improvement. Originally, the statute was understood to apply only to third-party claims, and Michigan courts so held. In 1988, Michigan enacted an amendment that was held by several courts to have expanded the statute of repose to include contractual claims as well as third-party claims. However, the Supreme Court never addressed the issue. Miller-Davis involved a claim by a general contractor against a subcontractor for breach of contract. The issue was the construction of a natatorium roof, which the general contractor alleged was improperly constructed by the subcontractor. The subcontractor argued the claim was brought later than six years after first use, occupancy or acceptance of the improvement, and was therefore “reposed.” The court of appeals agreed and held the claim was barred. Plaintiff sought review by the Supreme Court. In the Supreme Court, the plaintiff argued the statute of repose did not apply to its claim, which was based on breach of contract and not an “injury to person or property.” The Supreme Court reversed the lower court and held that the statute of repose “does not apply to a breach of contract claim for a defect in a building improvement.” In making its ruling, the court cited with approval the federal case of Garden City Osteopathic Hosp v HBE Corp, 55 F3d 1126 (CA 6, 1995). Miller-Davis significantly extends the duration contractors could be sued for building defects. The impact of the case is likely to be that warranty claims by building owners for defective work will be brought long after the building has been occupied. Owners have contracts with their prime contractor, and often have direct contracts with specialty contractors. There is no longer any repose period for claims based on these contracts. By statute, warranty claims may be brought up to six years after a breach is discovered. Therefore, owners may bring suit up to six years after discovery of a latent defect, no matter when that discovery occurs. The Garden City case cited by the Supreme Court is as example of the potential application of Miller-Davis. Garden City involved an owner’s claim brought against a contractor approximately 21 years after construction. Contractors should henceforth be careful to review their contracts and when possible, seek to limit their contractual obligations, including indemnification and warranty provisions, to reasonable durations.
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Legitimate Concern or Interference with Business Expectation? Design Professionals’ Potential Liability for Interference with Business Expectation When Recommending Against Awarding Project to Lowest Bidding Contractor By Mark A. Nasr and Erin R. Murphy, Plunkett Cooney ot all project bids are created equally, especially those submitted on public works projects. Often, design professionals are retained by the government agency Nasr Nasr responsible for the project and are tasked with determining the lowest responsible construction bidder for bid awards. Unfortunately, this process does not always take into account any opinions or attitudes formed as a result of prior involvement on other projects. As one might predict, quarrels can arise when a design professional is asked to render a neutral and objective recommendation in connection with a bid award, and the decision to select a “higher” bidder on the project is made, without explanation as to why the lowest bidder did not
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qualify as a responsible bidder. For that reason, Michigan courts have long held that a contractor who is the lowest responsible bidder has a legitimate expectation of being awarded the project and may have an interference with business expectation claim against the design professional that recommended against the award without just cause. WHAT GOVERNS DESIGN PROFESSIONALS’ ACTIONS? BAD BLOOD OR LEGITIMATE CONCERNS Under traditional parameters, no consideration is given of potential “bad blood” existing between the design professional and the lowest bidder, or even between the government agency itself and the lowest bidder. This very issue was recently litigated in a case in western Michigan. It was discovered that the government agency that retained the design professional to recommend an award of a public works contract had “bad
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Dave Pomaville & Sons, Inc. Schreiber Corporation Wixom MI Warren MI 248.926.1500 586.755.6030
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“Voice Of The Construction Industry”®
blood” with the low bidder based on work done on a previous project. Accordingly, the government agency tasked the design professional with finding any reason to deny the low bid, which the engineer did. Ultimately, the court ruled that the design professional was not liable to the contractor for interference with a business expectation, because the engineer’s recommendation was based on “legitimate concerns” with the contractor’s previous work. However, in another recent case, the court seemingly strayed from the previously mentioned ruling, holding that a design professional may be held liable for damages under a theory of interference with a valid business expectation if it recommends against awarding the project to the lowest bidder without adequate justification. In the case in question, the plaintiff contractor submitted the lowest bid on a public school project. Pursuant to its contract with the school district, the defendant design professional assisted the district with reviewing and evaluating bid applications, investigating competing bidders, and making recommendations as to which contractor should be awarded the project. The design professional contacted and interviewed persons listed on the plaintiff contractor’s bidder qualification form in order to formulate opinions on the quality and timeliness of the contractor’s work on past projects. The plaintiff received somewhat mixed reviews. Notably, the design professional had an existing relationship with the plaintiff contractor and reported its own negative evaluation of the contractor based on its performance on a project in which the two were previously involved. Based upon the information gathered from the investigation, the design professional recommended the second lowest bidder, rather than the plaintiff contractor. The school district adopted the design professional’s recommendation. The contractor brought suit against the design professional seeking to recover lost profits and alleging a single count of interference with a business expectation. The design professional filed a motion for summary disposition on grounds that the school district had broad discretion in awarding the bid and that there was sufficient documentation to establish that the contractor was unqualified. The trial court agreed, granting the design professional’s motion for summary disposition. The contractor subsequently appealed. The appellate court reversed, holding that the defendant design professional could be held liable for damages under a theory of interference with a valid business expectation. Visit us online at www.cammagazineonline.com
In doing so, the court looked outside of the bid documents to determine whether the school district, and the design professional, by proxy, had broad discretion in awarding bids. The court examined the language of the school district’s fiscal management manual, which stated that “[b]ids shall be awarded in compliance with applicable bidding obligations imposed by law to the lowest responsible
bidder.” The fiscal management manual also defined the term “lowest responsible bidder” as follows: “[t]he Responsible Contractor that has submitted a fully complete and responsive bid that provides the lowest net dollar cost for all labor and materials required for the complete performance of the work of the construction project let for bid. Such bid must satisfy the
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CONSTRUCTION LAW
requirements of all applicable local, state, and federal laws, this policy, any administrative rules associated with this policy developed by the superintendent at the Board’s direction, and bid documents used to solicit bids, and any other guidelines and specifications required for the construction project. Because a bidder with the net lowest dollar cost bid may not be a responsible contractor, the lowest dollar cost bidder may not always receive award of the bid.” The court reasoned that the multiple provisions reserving the right to reject bids are subject to the provision requiring an award to be made to the lowest responsible bidder; otherwise the “lowest responsible bidder” provision is rendered meaningless and nugatory. The court, however, emphasized that the submission of the lowest bid, in and of itself, was inadequate to sustain the plaintiff's suit, rejecting any per se rule that allows litigation to proceed based simply on proof of the lowest bid. Ultimately, the provision in conjunction with the directive that bids “shall” be awarded to the lowest bidder was sufficient to create a valid business expectation for the contractor. The court panel concluded that the contractor had presented sufficient evidence to create a question of fact as to whether it was qualified for the project. The contractor’s president offered affidavits from various individuals who had worked with the contractor on prior projects and stated that the contractor was competent and qualified. The court concluded this testimony was sufficient to rebut the evidence presented by the design professional and created a genuine issue of material fact as to whether the contractor was a responsible bidder.
Just weeks ago, the Michigan Supreme Court granted leave to review the Michigan Court of Appeals’ decision in this case. The Court will consider whether the contractor had a valid business expectation and whether the design professional’s actions amounted to intentional and improper conduct sufficient to sustain a claim of interference with a business expectation. IS THE LOWEST RESPONSIBLE BIDDER STILL THE BEST PRACTICE? What does all of this mean? One can hope that the Michigan Supreme Court will finally articulate what qualifies as a “legitimate concern” shielding the design professional from liability, as well as what factors should be considered in determining whether a design professional actually interfered with a contractor’s valid business expectation by recommending against awarding it a public works project. In the meantime, we are all left wondering whether the lowest responsible bidder process will continue to survive further scrutiny, or, if in an age of design-build and public-private projects, it is time to move away from this practice altogether. About the Authors An attorney in Plunkett Cooney’s Bloomfield Hills office, Erin R. Murphy focuses her practice in the areas of construction law and general liability. An attorney in the firm’s Bloomfield Hills office, Mark A. Nasr represents owners, architectural and engineering design firms, construction managers, general contractors, subcontractors and developers in all construction matters.
• Certified Professional Constructor (10 + yrs) • Certified Professional Estimator (30 + yrs) • Arbitrator (AAA 20 + yrs)
Rolland L. Stapleton, CPC, CPE
800-664-3697 www.nadc1.com 20
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Serving Michigan Since 1984
• Adjunct University Professor Constrution (20 + yrs) • Recognized at trial courts and arbitration as Expert Witness • Construction Claims Management, Claims Development, Claim Defense • Estimating • Scheduling • Constructability reviews and analysis • Cost outcome projections planned vs actual analysis
Phone: 313.320.2663 Website: rlsa.net E-mail: rstapleton@rlsa.net “Voice Of The Construction Industry”®
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ACT Honors 2010 INTEX Winners and Finalists PHOTOGRAPHY ©2011 JOHN LACY, PROSHOOTER.COM
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rchitectural Contractors Trade Association (ACT) recognized four area subcontractors for their hard work and outstanding construction projects at the 16th Annual INTEX Achievement Awards this past spring. This year's INTEX Award ceremony honored the nominees and their projects that were completed in 2010.
Jasman Construction – Zazios Restaurant
Master Craft Carpet Service – Polk Elementary School
George I. Landry – Cranbrook Kingswood Girls Middle School
Acoustic Ceiling & Partition – Eastern Michigan University Mark Jefferson Phase 3
2010 Unique Construction INTEX Winner
2010 Resilient Floor INTEX Winner
Jasman Construction – Zazios Restaurant ❖ Project Manager: Lee Jasinski ❖ GC: CSM Group ❖ Architect: Eckert-Wordell ❖ ACT Suppliers: Gypsum Supply Company and Commercial Building Materials
Master Craft Carpet Service – Polk Elementary School ❖ Project Manager: Jim Judd ❖ GC: National Maintenance Services ❖ Architect: TMP Associates
2010 Unique Construction Finalist and Nominees were: ❖ Pollock Plastering – Hindu Temple of Canton ❖ Pontiac Ceiling & Partition Co. – CS Mott Children’s and Women’s Hospital Entry ❖ Saylor’s, Inc. - Michigan International Speedway ❖ Saylor’s, Inc. – University of Michigan Stadium Renovation
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2010 Resilient Floor Finalist and Nominees were: ❖ Continental Interiors – University of Michigan North Quad Complex ❖ Master Craft Carpet Service – Wayne State University ❖ Shock Brothers Floorcovering – Lincoln High School Gymnasium
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2010 Carpentry INTEX Winner George I. Landry – Cranbrook Kingswood Girls Middle School ❖ Project Manager: Patrick Landry ❖ GC: Frank Rewold & Son, Inc. ❖ Architect: Ghaffari Associates
2010 Carpentry Finalist and Nominees were: ❖ Nelson Mill Company – University of Michigan Stadium Renovation ❖ Pontiac Ceiling & Partition – Polk Elementary School Media Center
2010 Wall & Ceiling INTEX Winner Acoustic Ceiling & Partition – Eastern Michigan University Mark Jefferson Phase 3 ❖ Project Manager: Jim Weeks ❖ GC: The Christman Company ❖ Architect: Lord, Aeck & Sargent 2010 Wall & Ceiling Finalist and Nominees were: ❖ Ann Arbor Ceiling & Partition – University of Michigan North Quad Campus ❖ ANM Construction Co – Air Handler Replacement, OCC Southfield Campus ❖ Acoustic Ceiling & Partition – St. Joseph Mercy Hospita Chapel Addition ACT would to thank their Title Sponsors: Michigan Regional Council of Carpenters and Management and Unions Serving Together (MUST). ACT thanks its Presenting Sponsors: Carpenters Labor Management Promotion Training; Great Lakes Gypsum & Supply; Laborers Local 1076, Labor Management Trust; Laborers’ Local 1191 Employers’ Cooperation & Education Fund; and Metro Cars. ACT thanks its Gold Sponsors: Ann Arbor Ceiling & Partition, Co.; BeneSys, Inc.; Brinker Team Construction; Commercial Building Materials; George W. Auch Company; Kulbacki, Inc.; Master Craft Carpet Service; Painters District Council #22; TIC International Corporation; and Turner Brooks, Inc. ACT thanks its Silver Sponsors: Acoustic Ceiling & Partition Co.; B&D Drywall Supply, Inc., Construction Association of Michigan; Copper Range; Diversified Construction Specialists; Jasman Construction; Michigan Building Trades Council; NAI, Inc.; Oakland Companies; Ryan Building Materials; Selleck Architectural Sales; and Stefansky, Holloway & Nichols, Inc. ACT thanks its Bronze Sponsors: Bultynck & Co., PLLC; Carpenter Contractors Association of Detroit; Denn-Co Construction; National Gypsum Company; and Pontiac Ceiling & Partition.
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Dale Jerome, AIA, REFP, LEED AP, president of French Associates s the focus on sustainability has taken center stage among the design and construction industry in recent years, it has been an amazing opportunity to witness the introduction of many new building materials. As architects, we’ve developed an interest in not only what the final product looks like, but we now ask ourselves important questions about the origin of the materials and how they were produced or manufactured. Materials that were once considered byproduct or waste have now found their way into the category of renewable resources. In addition to being used as a component for roofing insulation, or even as an additive in concrete, crushed glass is now utilized to produce a variety of attractive wall and floor tile solutions. The seemingly endless generation of paper can now be used not only to create highly effective insulation materials, but has also introduced us to innovative products such as three-dimensional wall panels that offer a variety of aesthetic and acoustical properties. Just simply finding ways to reuse old plastic to create new plastic has revolutionized our industry. In addition to the wealth of new products that have emerged as a result of our focus on sustainability, it has also been encouraging to see our ability to reconsider the use of older, perhaps in some cases, forgotten, materials as an appropriate response to green and sustainable finishes. Take for instance cork, a material we are perhaps more familiar with for being used as a stopper in wine bottles since the 1600s. Cork has also been used as a building material for several hundred years, and was used widely as flooring in public buildings in the early 1900s. In fact, many of them still remain in use today. From a green perspective, cork is a sound alternative to many other manufactured flooring options. Cork is light, wear resistant, elastic, impermeable and well insulated. It works exceptionally well for heat and sound insulating applications. In addition to being a very attractive flooring option, it is also a very ecologically sound
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building material. No trees are cut down to harvest cork, and it can be manufactured without the use of man-made chemicals. Harvesting is done by hand to ensure that no damage is done to the tree and also minimize the impact to the habitat where the trees grow. We can all probably remember a cork board used somewhere along our daily path to allow us a place to pin important reminders. Perhaps this can serve as a reminder for us to consider the use of materials such as cork for their practical and sustainable advantages. Another old yet renewable flooring option is terrazzo. With a rich history that dates back over 1500 years, terrazzo is one of the original recycled building finishes. Terrazzo floors have outlived many of the buildings that have since been replaced, never having required any replacement or refurbishing after decades of service in the high traffic corridors of many institutions. As a true “cradle-to-grave” option, terrazzo also allows for the use of recycled content. In addition to the traditional aggregates that were historically utilized in terrazzo, today recycled glass or plastic are also being utilized. The materials used for the aggregate, as well as the cement and epoxy binders are available throughout the United States, making it easy to obtain them from a regional source. Many of us can recall school days that involved walking along terrazzo corridors. Perhaps there’s an opportunity to revisit the product of our youth from a sustainable and current day point of view. The questions we should ask before selecting finishes are important ones. Paying attention to the sustainable aspects of the products we choose is a responsibility we should all remain focused on and take very seriously. Looking to new products that offer these attributes is certainly important, but we may also be well served if reacquaint ourselves with some of the products of our past. In doing so, we may find that some of the old is, in fact, quite renewable.
“Voice Of The Construction Industry”®
CONSTRUCTION
HIGHLIGHT
A Window to the Soul By Mary E. Kremposky Associate Editor n the beginning, darkness was upon the interior of the University Presbyterian Church in Rochester Hills. This dimly lit space only had a single source of natural light, namely a small skylight, or oculus, almost 50 feet above the sanctuary floor. The vision of the heavens was reduced to this small aperture. The exposed roof deck’s high, sweeping arc of wood was poorly visible in the half-light thrown by a host of pendant light fixtures. Worship within this dark, cavernous interior was akin to the Biblical story of Jonah trapped in the belly of the whale. “When I came to the church, I was concerned about what it said visually,” said Reverend George Portice, senior pastor of University Presbyterian Church. “It did not have light. It did not have beauty. It did not enhance our worship.” The best of religious architecture makes the spiritual tangible and supports the power of the liturgy to quiet the mind and awaken the soul. Rev. Portice’s journey to find this Holy Grail began almost 10 years ago, beginning with a conversation with Karl Greimel, a church member and then dean
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Photos by Justin Maconochie Photography, LLC of the school of architecture at Lawrence Technological University. Portice then began combing through the pages of Faith & Form Magazine, an interfaith journal on religion, art and architecture, and reading the Roman Catholic Church’s Vatican II guidelines for religious renovation. His quest ultimately led to the doorstep of Constantine George Pappas, AIA Architecture/Planning in Royal Oak, an awardwinning design firm specializing in religious architecture, and Roth, Inc., an experienced Troy general contractor who assembled a skilled team of subcontractors well-schooled in quality craftsmanship. Pappas was selected from among three recommended architects. “He immediately saw the potential of the space,” recalled Rev. Portice. “He had so many ideas that our excitement and enthusiasm grew. Also, he has a strong background in religious architecture, and I would guess he is the number one church architect in the Detroit area.” Ultimately, Pappas and Roth delivered the sanctuary from its perpetual gloom and into the
light of day. Roth worked through the winter, renovating most of the interior before slicing and extracting a portion of the roof to create space for an expansive dormer window, all in time for the church’s 50th anniversary celebration. Today, this dormer window rises behind the altar and choir areas, filling the sanctuary with natural light and framing a massive red oak tree growing on the north side of the church. The eye is drawn irresistibly toward the altar and beyond to this tangible symbol of the Tree of Life and the Light of the World. The window displays the tree in all its seasons, from a dusting of snow on the branches to the buds of spring. The view through “the window speaks to us of the present, but it really speaks to us of eternity,” said Rev. Portice. LET THERE BE LIGHT The first “design specification” in the Book of Genesis is “let there be light,” and the same held true for the miraculous re-creation of this 476-seat sanctuary. The dormer window was only one agent of light. Removing the carpeting and CAM MAGAZINE
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HIGHLIGHT
polishing the concrete yielded a light gray floor with beautifully exposed stone aggregate. Even more importantly, the insertion of light-colored maple panels around the entire perimeter dramatically brightens the sanctuary’s dark brick walls. “The maple refreshes your eye as soon as you enter the church,” said Constantine George Pappas, AIA. In addition, Pappas designed, and Laminated Concepts, Troy built, an entirely new ensemble of light-colored maple and cherrywood liturgical furnishings, including pews, pulpit, baptismal font, communion table, and lectern. Cloaked in vertical and angled maple panels, the interior as a whole resembles a piece of wellcrafted furniture. The angled panels are a sort of “giving tree” not only adding the leavening power of light but also serving as acoustical panels and as camouflage for the mechanical ductwork. A recipient of a 2011 AIA Michigan Design Award, the project also fine-tuned the acoustics, delivering a high-quality acoustical capability, along with a pipe organ and new organ platform.
KEEPING YOUR FOCUS The Christian message, “You are the Light of the World,” now resonates in this light-filled sanctuary. The dormer window not only draws in the light but aids in creating a central axis straight through the heart of the sanctuary, beginning with the baptismal font at the entrance, leading to the communion table and finally soaring above to a suspended cross and to the light and tree beyond. Like a mantra, the architecture helps to focus the mind on the eternal. As the first point in this unifying line, placing the baptismal font at the very entrance is a return to a much older practice in Christian churches, a practice that symbolizes the entry into the fold, said Rev. Portice. The entire sequence speaks to the Christian church as the Good Shepherd ministering to his flock. “You walk in the door for baptism into the church, you are fed at the communion table, you are nourished by the Word of God, you witness WINTER DARKNESS Christ’s gift to us on the This project of light was launched cross, and then you see in the dead of winter. Working beyond through the slightly out of sequence to avoid window to eternity,” said opening the roof and exposing the Rev. Portice. interior to Michigan’s usual wintry All other elements mix of snow, sleet and freezing rain, in the sanctuary are Roth began selective interior designed to reduce visual demolition in January 2008, followed distraction, including the by construction of the framing for light gray floor and the the maple panels. “Because the uniform and lightly substrate or the framing has to be banded, quarter sawn rift almost perfect for these panels to fit cut maple panels. together, you have to have a good “Everything is slightly stud drywall contractor,” said Jeff monochromatic,” said Roth, president of Roth, Inc. AcoustiPappas. A central axis leads straight through the heart of the sanctuary, beginning with Con, Waterford, was the Achieving this the baptismal font, followed by the altar and finally soaring above to the subcontractor selected for its ability uniformity was a suspended cross and to the light and tree beyond. to achieve these tight tolerances. calculated task, Work from January to May beginning with the included installing the majority of selection of the quarter new light fixtures, electrical systems sawn rift cut. “We ordered and ductwork. Working from the back of the dormer. “Toward the end of the week, the the quarter sawn panels in one lot to achieve a very sanctuary toward the dormer, interior work carpenter cut the roof from the bottom side, and close match,” said Roth. “Mock-ups were also stopped short of a demarcation line below the we supported it from underneath,” said Roth. “On prepared for the owner’s and architect’s approval.” future window to avoid any interior damage, said Saturday of Memorial Day weekend, we positioned All of the furnishings were light colored and Roth. our cranes and lifted the existing roof off all in one quarter sawn for the same purpose. Laminated One exception was the construction of a steelpiece.” Concepts fabricated both the furniture and the framed, concrete deck mezzanine built for use as a The big lift and build-out occurred in a single maple panels, even devising a custom fastening work platform during dormer construction and day with the two walls lifted through the new system for the sloped panels and applying a ultimately as a sturdy support for the pipe organ. opening, set in place and installed, followed by scratch-resistant acrylic finish for the longevity and The mezzanine’s steel frame rests on the exterior construction of the new roof framing and decking, protection of the wood. masonry load-bearing walls to support these and placement of a temporary enclosure. “We were Turning down the visual volume also included heavenly but heavy pipes. “There is probably about all enclosed by the end of that Saturday night,” said re-staining the dark brown glu-lam beams arcing 2,000 to 3,000 lbs. on each corner,” said Pappas. Roth. “All of this work was assisted by being able to over the sanctuary. The new stain more closely “When the organ is playing there is a tremendous work off of the steel mezzanine.” matches the original cherrywood-stained decking, amount of reverberation that might transfer to the Rochester Hills Contract Glazing, Inc., Rochester keeping these dark vertical stripes from taking acoustics if it didn’t rest on a very solid structure.” Hills installed the massive window and its frame in away from the central focus, said Pappas. the 12 x 20-foot opening. God’s light bulb was now With this design strategy, the eye is drawn to two “GOD’S LIGHT BULB” “turned on” and ready to service the sanctuary flashpoints of color. “When the procession enters Pappas calls the dormer window “God’s light whose remaining interior was finished in August, on Sunday, all the choir is wearing royal blue robes bulb” – one with a northern “wattage” drawing in a along with furniture installation as well. of a very deep, rich color,” said Rev. Portice. “The eye continual stream of gentle, even light. Installing is drawn to the liturgical action.” Added Pappas, “It
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this “light bulb” took a crane and a run of good weather. Given Michigan’s finicky precipitation patterns, Roth established a target date near Memorial Day for the grand opening of the roof. Late May also proved optimal because the church’s school was not in session on the holiday weekend, giving Roth full control of the north parking lot – the school’s access point and drop-off location. Carpentry contractor, Wally Kosorski and Co., Inc., Clinton Township, first laid the dormer framing out to scale on the sanctuary floor, plotting the elevation of the opening’s sill and the head of the dormer. “The carpenter actually built the dormer’s two walls on the floor of the sanctuary,” said Roth. In the week prior to Memorial Day, Roth cut openings and set the new steel columns for the
“Voice Of The Construction Industry”®
is amazing how the eye goes straight to the tree, because that is the most intense color with the blue of the sky and the green of the tree in summer.” At this church, there is no contradiction in this “color scheme.” The University Presbyterian’s close relationship to nature is rooted in the Presbyterian Church’s Celtic roots in Scotland and Northern Ireland. The church’s Gardening Angels have turned the grounds into a sea of blooming flowers and native plants. The church complex is enveloped in greenery, including a small woodlot that is home to the towering red oak visible through the dormer window. A living symbol of strength and longevity, Oak trees are deeply embedded in the traditions of the Celtic Presbyterian church. “We always look for religious space where we can plant oak trees, because in Ireland and Scotland many of the churches were originally built on pagan sites in the middle of oak groves,” said Rev. Portice. As part of its tradition and its environmentally friendly focus, University Presbyterian has planted its own oak tree, as well as 25 other trees on its property along Adams Road. MUSICAL CHAIRS The newly transformed sanctuary is now an aid in bringing the 600-member congregation closer to the Word of God in the liturgy and the works of God in the natural world. Pappas’ design also drew the congregation physically closer to the altar platform. The original sanctuary is configured as a true Greek cross defined as a cross with arms of equal length radiating from a central core. Basically, the interior is almost a circle with each of the quadrants of pews equidistant from the altar. Taking full advantage of the original configuration, “we felt moving the altar platform forward would create an incredible amount of intimacy,” said Pappas. “No matter the quadrant, everybody is close to the communion table, and everybody has a close relationship with the sacred area.” Bringing flexibility to the interior was another part of the renovation’s mission. Because the church uses liturgical dance, movement and drama as part of worship, the sanctuary has a flexible arrangement of open-ended pews and chairs, as well as a piano and organ, equipped with a long, specialty cord providing the capability of moving the organ front and center for a recital or concert. The modular and moveable choir platform and seating, able to expand and contract as necessary, now has space for 90 to 100 choir members versus the original 30 to 40 members. “Now we can bring in three or four different choirs at one time to sing for festival occasions,” said Rev. Portice. “We have even had a full orchestra in the sanctuary.” LET THERE BE SOUND The renovation delivered light, focus and acoustical clarity to the 5,400-square-foot sanctuary. “The original sanctuary had suffered from what we call a slap-back echo,” said Pappas. Scott R. Riedel & Associates, Ltd., prominent acoustical consultants based in Milwaukee, provided an acoustical analysis of the space and upgraded the sound system. As a Roth subcontractor, Ann Arbor Audio, Brighton, installed the Visit us online at www.cammagazineonline.com
sound system. Michigan’s own native maple again came to the rescue. The angled maple panels refract and break down the sound to minimize the echo and restore the clarity of the spoken word and the beauty of the University Presbyterian Church’s 11 different choirs, ranging from a Gospel choir and four bell choirs to a Cherub choir for kindergarten and firstgrade children. Song is prayer to the University Presbyterian Church, and now the congregation can enjoy impeccable acoustics from these strategically angled and placed panels and with the acoustical aid of fabric pew seats. University Presbyterian is also sharing its acoustically tuned sanctuary with other groups. “Oakland University books the space for all their musical events,” said Rev. Portice. “In the last month, we’ve probably had about 10 requests to use this space for concerts. We just can’t accommodate all of them. It’s a compliment to the space, to the acoustics and to the designer. “It is also a compliment to the church that is willing to share the space,” he continued. “We feel the church space is a gift from God that is not meant to be hoarded just for our use. We have 23 different groups using all of our facilities, such as nonprofit groups working for the betterment of the community, self-help programs, and music programs. In some ways, the architecture can become a welcoming outreach to the community, and welcoming is a very important part of Christianity.” Musically, the church was in seventh heaven with its purchase of a recycled pipe organ at an amazingly low price. The organ was installed 40 years ago in an Illinois building in the process of being condemned. “The organ tuner said it is one of the most beautiful organs in northwestern Illinois,” said Rev. Portice. “He said, ‘Any church that gets that organ is lucky.’ We always joke that we had an organ transplant.” After refurbishment and repainting in a Kansas factory and construction of a new console blending the organ with the newly renovated sanctuary, this musical instrument has found a fitting home in this finely tuned space. “Recycling is a wonderful thing,” said Rev. Portice. A MATERIAL HARMONY The sanctuary’s polished concrete floor is an environmentally friendly material in sync with this Celtic church’s “green” mission. Creating this natural expanse of flooring entailed “grinding the floor and taking down very small increments of the concrete to expose the aggregate,” said Roth. “It was a process that took almost a week, because we would grind an area, and then request approval from the owner and architect.” With the warm, gray tone of the floor almost perfectly matching the organ pipes, the two elements help unify the space. “What is amazing is the color of the organ pipes and the color of the floor is so close,” said Pappas. The striking cherrywood and maple furnishings create their own harmony in wood and link the two design periods to a degree. This duet of maple and cherrywood is seen to full effect in the pews whose top cherrywood edges create almost a continuous visual line emphasizing the circular nature of this
Greek cross-configured church. As another unifying link, each piece of liturgical furniture embodies the same religious imagery. Three vertical pieces of wood, representing the Trinity, form the main body and/or legs of all the altar furnishings. Said Pappas, “The design of the furnishings also is all done in a true Greek cross,” the most apparent example being the circular baptismal font indented with four equidistant marks. For a modest cost, this sanctuary, originally built in the ‘70s, has been transformed into a serene, light-filled house of worship. “Of all the spaces we've done, the transformation from a pure acoustical and aesthetic standpoint is probably the project in which we got the best value for the dollars,” said Pappas. “The end result is amazing acoustics and a completely refreshing worship space.” Roth also upgraded the building’s fire alarm system and delivered a complete kitchen renovation of the activity hall. Renovation of the narthex may be the next step. Thanks to the vision of Constantine George Pappas AIA Architecture/Planning and the savvy project management of Roth, Inc., the quality craftsmanship of University Presbyterian Church’s sanctuary will stand the test of time and will long serve the church’s mission to focus the congregation’s awareness on the Light of the World within and beyond. UNIVERSITY PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH Owner: University Presbyterian Church, Rochester Hills Architect: Constantine George Pappas AIA Architecture/Planning, Royal Oak Contractor: Roth, Inc., Troy SUBCONTRACTORS • Demolition – Blue Star, Inc., Warren • Concrete – 6-K Construction Company, Brighton • Masonry – Efficient Design, Inc., Chesterfield • Structural Steel – Reymar Steel Co., Inc., Detroit • Roofing – Four Seasons Roofing & Sheet Metal, Shelby Township • Carpentry – Wally Kosorski and Co., Inc., Clinton Township • Glu Lam Material – Timber Systems, Lapeer • Studs/Drywall – Acousti-Con, Waterford • Millwork/Furniture – Laminated Concepts, Inc., Troy • Glass, Aluminum – Rochester Hills Contract Glazing, Inc., Rochester Hills • Doors/Hardware – Macomb Fire Door Co., Roseville • Counter Shutter – Detroit Door and Hardware Co., Madison Heights • Flooring – Macias Floors, Livonia • Flooring – All Court, Inc., Northville • Painting – Industrial Coating, Southgate • Kitchen – Architectural Stainless, Macomb • Plumbing – Singel Plumbing Co., Rochester • Mechanical – Multi-Mechanical Service, Inc., Sterling Heights • Electrical – RCI Electric, Farmington Hills • Sound System – Ann Arbor Audio, Brighton CAM MAGAZINE
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PRODUCT
SHOWCASE
MasterForce™ Cordless Circular Saw Empowers Home Projects The MasterForce 6 1/2 in. Cordless Circular Saw from Menards® is a smart circular saw choice. This versatile, lightweight workhorse is operated by either an 18-volt lithium-ion or NiCd battery and delivers 4,500 rpm. With some basic circular saw techniques and a few other tools, homeowners are ready to build a deck, install shelves, construct a picnic table or make over the basement.
Plans and how-to advice for these and many other DIY projects are available at home centers, such as Menards. The height adjustment on the saw's base lifts and lowers the blade to control the depth of cut. There's also a bevel adjustment that tilts the blade from 0 to 45 degrees. A spring-loaded blade guard prevents accidental contact with the blade and has a lever to pull back the guard when necessary. Another desirable feature is a blade brake that immediately stops the blade's rotation when the trigger switch is released. Some saws, such as the MasterForce, also incorporate an LED work light to help illuminate the work surface. Most saws are equipped with a general purpose 18- to 24-tooth, carbide-tipped blade, which combines fairly smooth cutting (smooth enough for most home projects) speed and long life. A 40-tooth trim blade provides a much smoother cut for finish carpentry, but cuts more slowly. Specialty blades for cutting masonry, metal, decking, vinyl and other materials also are available. More information is available at www.menards.com.
Innovative PaintSmart-Trayz PaintSmart-Trayz is a unique new product that offers an easy and efficient way for painters to complete residential and commercial painting tasks. These creatively designed paint accessories offer some convenient benefits not offered by other similar paint products on the market. One of the most intriguing aspects of PaintSmart-Trayz is that they can hang either vertically on an extension ladder or horizontally on a stepladder. The PaintSmart-Trayz are easily portable thanks to a large carrying handle making transport up and down a ladder very simple. The uniquely designed reservoir has high sides and holds up to two quarts of paint to keep refill trips on the ladder to a minimum. The PaintSmart-Trayz also sport handy hooks for brushes, and slots for paint rollers, allowing paint to flow back into the tray preventing spills and drips. A clever twist cap drain spout allows painters to easily pour excess paint back into the can. Lightweight yet sturdy, the plastic PaintSmart-Trayz are reusable and easily stored. The PaintSmart-Trayz sell for $12.99 and are available at a growing number of national retailers, as well online at www.PaintSmart-Trayz.com.
Magnalight Releases Inline Low Voltage Handheld Spotlight for 110/120V Wall Outlets Larson Electronics announced the addition of the Magnalight HL-85-HID-110V
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“Voice Of The Construction Industry”®
TOTO Has Introduced the Maris Collection TOTO has introduced the Maris Collection, a reinterpretation of Mid-Century Modern design with an updated, approachable sensibility characterized by clean, simple lines and gracious curves, the essence of architecture and designs for this period from 1940 to 1960.
HID spotlight for voltage ranging from 110277 VAC in response for operators need for high powered handheld spotlights that will run from a standard wall outlet. The HL-85HID-110V handheld spotlight uses an inline transformer, so operators can plug the spotlight in the wall, but still use the low voltage spotlight in wet area applications. Larson Electronics released a version of its popular HL-85-HID handheld spotlight that will enable users to plug the spotlight into a conventional 120V wall outlet. While initially designed for security and hunting endeavors, the low voltage handheld spotlight and floodlight combination has found a home with utility operators. Whether in the plant or out in the field, utility operators can plug the light into a standard outlet in the wall or a 110v outlet from their vehicle’s inverter and get the benefit of the durability, beam adjustment and high power light output for maintenance and repair operations. The spotlight features an adjustable beam that can be configured as a wide flood or long, narrow spot beam. The 35 watt HID spotlight has a 25-foot SOOW chemical and abrasion resistant cord and an inline transformer located near the standard straight blade wall plug. The HL-85-HID110V inline handheld spotlight is available for 110/120V, 220V or any other voltage to 277V on 50/60 Hz for domestic or international use. The low voltage handheld spotlight is priced just over $400, draws only 3 amps and delivers 3200 lumens. Accessories include a magnetic base, carrying case and a vehicle cord with cigarette plug cord. More information about these work lights and the entire range of Magnalight industrial and explosion proof lighting is available at mangalight.com, or by calling 1-800-369-6671 (1-903-498-3363 international).
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The Maris Two-Piece Dual Flush HighEfficiency Toilet (HET) appeals to homeowners and design professionals with its versatile clean lines and contemporary gracious recessed-curve tank style. Its elongated bowl with skirted design saves owners’ time by making it very easy to clean. The sophisticated Maris two-piece design offers TOTO's Universal Height ergonomics, making it both aesthetically pleasing and
PMC 46 Combilaser
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Detroit Hilti Center 28190 Schoolcraft Road Livonia, MI 48150 1-800-879-8000 www.us.hilti.com
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PRODUCT SHOWCASE
ADA compliant. An example of the kinds of engineering advances that arise from TOTO’s People-First Innovation philosophy, this stylish HET features the company’s new Dual-Max Cyclone Flushing System, which combines Dual-Max Flushing technology with TOTO’s world-class Double Cyclone system. To achieve this, TOTO engineers redesigned the bowl’s interior, replacing the overhang found on traditional toilets with a concave rim through which the high-speed water jets travel cleansing the rim and bowl, removing debris, matter, and bacteria with each flush, which greatly reduces the time needed to clean the unit. To complete their innovative bowl design, TOTO engineers coated the rim and bowl with SanaGloss, the company’s nanotechnology glaze that seals the porcelain with an ionized barrier creating a super-slippery, non-porous surface that repels the waste and bacteria. When protected by SanaGloss, the water that rinses the bowl and rim as the toilet flushes helps to remove stains, residue, scaling, and lime buildup. Invisible organisms, including bacteria and molds, also are eliminated. Owners’ won’t need harsh detergents, which are expensive and harmful to the environment. With these engineering People-First innovations to the Maris Dual Flush HET’s bowl design, TOTO further reduced its water consumption, which is 1.28 gallons per flush (gpf ) for solid waste and 0.9 gpf for liquid. Averaging solid and liquid stops over the course of a day, the average flush for the elegant HET is 1.0 gpf. Its trip lever flush actuator, too, has a unique design: pull forward to activate the full 1.28 gpf flush, push backward to active the light 0.9 gpf flush. The new Dual Max Cyclone Flushing System will put an end to a common complaint that many dual-flush HET owners have – the need to flush and brush after every solid stop. With the new Maris Dual Flush HET, as the water spins around the Sanagloss glazed bowl’s interior, the rapidly
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rotating column of water removes streaking from the bowl sides. The Maris Suite has introduced two new lavatory designs – undercounter and a semirecessed vessel. The Maris Undercounter Lavatory is characterized by the gracious curves and refined lines that typify the suite. It is available in two sizes: large (20”x 15”) and medium (17” x 14”), both of which are ADA compliant. Their deep basin reduces water’s splashing, and their SanaGloss glaze saves homeowners time cleaning as the superslippery surface repels bacteria and soap debris. The Maris Semi-Recessed Vessel, too, exemplifies the suite’s generous curves and clean lines. This 19.5” x 15” vessel is SanaGloss glazed for easy cleaning, and its deep basin reduces splashing. For more information, consumers may visit www.totousa.com or call 1.888-295-8134 and select Option 5.
IB-3™ Stormstopper Underlayment by MFM Building Products MFM Building Products Corporation has introduced IB-3™ StormStopper. This underlayment product is specifically designed to install under roofing at edges, valleys and whole roof applications to protect from water or moisture leaks. IB-3 StormStopper is a self-adhering mineral surface underlayment, which adheres directly to the roof deck. The specially formulated rubberized asphalt adhesive seals around fasteners and forms a long-lasting barrier. The product is engineered to provide a water and weatherproof barrier against blowing rain, ice dams or the build-up of excessive water. The product comes with a protective split release liner, which protects the product until installation. IB-3 StormStopper is offered in 67’ rolls x 36” width; in 200 sq. ft. cartons. The product is suitable for use in new construction and re-roofing installations, and is backed by a 5year Limited Warranty. IB-3 StormStopper is
in accordance with ASTM E 108, ICC-ES AC188, and ICC-ES AC48, as issued on ICC-ES Evaluation Report ESR-1737. Installation of IB-3 StormStopper is easily performed by simply removing the release liner and pressing it into place. The product can be cut using a utility knife and installed at eaves, valleys, vents, skylights and chimneys. A non-removable selvedge edge allows for a secure seal on overlaps. Rolling the seams with a hand roller completes the installation. For more information concerning IB-3 StormStopper, or MFM Building Products Corporation, please contact the company at: MFM Building Products, P.O. Box 340, Coshocton, OH 43812; phone: 800-882-7663; fax: 740-622-6161; visit www.solutions.mfmbp.com or e-mail info@mfmbp.com.
Lincoln Electric Introduces New Motorized Stem and Wood Reel Dispensing System Lincoln Electric has introduced a new Stem and Wood Reel Dispensing System. This motorized wire dispensing system is designed for larger wire sizes from 1/16-inch (1.6 mm) to 3/16-inch (4.8 mm) in diameter. The heavy-duty design of this horizontal dereeler is ideal for use with Lincoln Electric's bulk wire packages. The system allows for accurate wire placement when using large diameter wire and is compatible with up to 2,200 LB (1000 KG) bulk stems, as well as wood reels and up to 3/16-inch (4.8mm) diameter wire. It is capable of dispensing large diameter wire at speeds up to 250 inches per minute (IPM) and may be adjusted up to 800 IPM for smaller diameter wire. The dispensing system helps eliminate common bulk wire challenges such as wire flip, flux-cored wire splitting, excessive tip wear, pulsating, and burn back. The system performs these functions with a reliable, heavy-duty pneumatic motor that ensures consistent and accurate wire delivery. With simple set-up and low maintenance, the Stem and Wood Reel Dispensing System is well suited for customers looking for an easy way to convert to bulk wire packages. The system also provides additional options “Voice Of The Construction Industry”®
such as an easy-to-use conversion kit for wood reels, pneumatic feed assist for extra long conduits and a protective cover for dusty, dirty environments. Lincoln Electric also offers installation and operation instructions for the Stem and Wood Reel Dispensing System, which can be obtained by contacting automation@lincolnelectric.com. Demonstrations of the Stem and Wooden Reel Dispensing System can be scheduled at the Lincoln Electric Automation Center of Excellence, located at 22221 Saint Clair Avenue, Cleveland, OH 44117. Call 1-888935-1836, or e-mail automation@lincolnelectric.com for more information or to schedule an appointment.
Meyerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Zephyr Duct Cleaning Vacuum Offers a Small Footprint and Great Performance The Meyer Zephyr provides the power to get the duct cleaning job done. Powered by a 31 HP Briggs and Stratton engine for both the custom-engineered fan and the KleanSweeper Compressor, the combination drive unit eliminates problems and maintenance on a second engine while it saves space and weight in vehicles. A simple unitary design makes installation quick and easy into any standard truck body or cargo trailer. The Zephyr uses an exclusive multi-bag filtration system designed to remove heavy debris and fine particles from the air stream before they reach the fan. An easy access filter door located permits easy cleaning of the dirt collected by the 33 DacronÂŽ Filter bags filtration system. Each Zephyr Duct Cleaning Vacuum is backed with a standard two-year warranty. For more information, visit www.wmwmeyer.com.
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IN
CONSTRUCTION
Detroit-based Aluminum Supply Company, Inc. is pleased to announce the addition of David Chopp, formerly with Trufab, Inc., to their fabrication/estimating team. With over 20 years in the construction industry, Chopp specializes in the fabrication of custom stainless steel for residential, commercial and industrial applications. David’s experience and resources broaden the scope of Aluminum Supply’s capabilities to provide standard and custom fabricated stainless steel to the alternative energy, millwork and architectural building products industries. The National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC) Lansing Chapter #177 recently awarded Megan Jacobs, PE, with the prestigious “NAWIC of the Year” Award. Jacobs serves Jacobs as treasurer of NAWIC Lansing Chapter #177 and is a senior engineer with Soil and Materials Engineers, Inc. (SME), Plymouth. Integrated Design Solutions, a Troy-based architectural and engineering firm, is pleased to announce the following new hires: Mark Reaves, AIA, LEED AP and Brandon Sundberg, AIA, LEED AP have joined the firm as senior architects; and Joe Schwartz, PE, LEED AP BD+C has joined the firm as mechanical engineer with expertise in geothermal HVAC system design.
Reaves
Sundberg
Giffels-Webster Engineers, headquartered in Rochester Hills, recently announced that Scott Clein has been promoted from associate to executive vice president. Clein oversees Clein and is responsible for the day-to-day management of the firm’s Detroit office and has supervised the design and implementation of hundreds of projects throughout southeast Michigan. His expertise lies in helping public and private clients successfully plan, design and implement the rehabilitation of existing infrastructure.
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Grunert
Swain
Rydman
Kalamazoo-based consulting engineering firm Byce & Associates, Inc. has announced the following hires: Fred Grunert, RA, NCARB, has joined the firm as project architect; Daniel Swain, PE has joined the firm as a mechanical engineer; and Erik Rydman, PE, LEED BD+C, has joined the firm as an electrical engineer. Clark Construction Company, Lansing, has announced the addition of two students to assist in the company’s upcoming projects through internships. Josh Pittsley is currently a junior studying construction management at Michigan State University and is expected to graduate in May 2013. He will be assisting Clark Construction at the FireKeepers Hotel project in Battle Creek. Alex Newman is a freshman studying construction management at Ferris State University. He will be helping Clark Construction with the St. Johns Public Schools project. Clark Construction is serving as construction manager for both the FireKeepers Hotel and the St. Johns Public Schools projects.
C O R P O R AT E
N E W S
Lansing-based C2AE, a full-service architectural, engineering, and planning design firm, was proud to announce its 45year anniversary on June 28, 2011. The firm was originally founded in 1966 as Capitol Consultants. Since that time, the firm has opened three new offices, merged with Grand Rapids-based architecture firm, DesignWorks A/E in 2005, changed its name to C2AE in 2007, and transitioned to a new CEO just last year. C2AE remains the largest A/E firm headquartered in Lansing. G2 Consulting Group of Troy provided geotechnical engineering and construction quality nengineering services for two southeast Michigan road and sewer construction projects that won 2011 Concrete Awards from the Michigan Concrete Association (MCA). The Nine Mile Road reconstruction, a rebuild of a four-lane major artery from Harper Avenue to Jefferson Avenue in St. Clair Shores, won honorable mention in the Urban Arterials
Greater than 30,000 Square Yards category. The Kathy Street pavement reconstruction, a complete reconstruction of the pavement, storm sewer and underdrain of this residential street from Frazho Road to Petrie Avenue in Roseville, won honorable mention in the Residential Streets Category. Both projects were commended for completing the rebuilds in phases to minimize disruptions to traffic, residents and businesses. Ann Arbor-based Hobbs+Black Associates, Inc. has been honored with two design awards as well as a certificate for Creative Use of Lighting from the Michigan International Interior Design Association, at their 2011 Michigan Interior Design Excellence Awards. Hobbs+Black was presented a Design Excellence Award in the Hospitality Under 10,000sf category for the BoomTown Restaurant, and in the Government Over 10,000sf category for the new Michigan State Police Headquarters Facility. Hobbs+Black was also presented a certificate for Creative Use of Lighting for MASCO Cabinetry new corporate office. Clark Construction Company, Lansing, has been named one of the 101 Best and Brightest Companies to Work For in West Michigan by the Michigan Business & Professional Association (MBPA). This accomplishment marks the fifth consecutive year Clark Construction has been honored with the prestigious award, which recognizes companies with the highest quality human resources initiatives. An independent research firm evaluates each company’s entry based on key measures in various categories. They include Communication, Community Initiatives, Compensation and Benefits, Diversity and Multiculturalism, Employee Education and Development, Employee Engagement and Commitment, Recognition and Retention, Recruitment and Selection, Small Business and Work-Life Balance. Canton-based Plumbing Professors, a 24-hour service plumbing, sewer repair and epoxy pipe lining company, has been awarded a rain water conductor lining contract by the Archdiocese of Detroit.
“Voice Of The Construction Industry”®
CONSTRUCTION
CALENDAR
CONSTRUCTION CALENDAR Aug
Please submit all calendar items no less than six weeks prior to the event to: Calendar Editor, CAM Magazine, P.O. Box 3204, Bloomfield Hills, MI 48302-3204.
Aug. 16 – CAM Connect Detroit Tigers Baseball Night – Come watch the Detroit Tigers take on the Minnesota Twins at Comerica Park. Cost is $40, which includes a pre-game buffet and seating in the Mezzanine section for the game. R.S.V.P. by contacting Mary Carabott at 248-972-1000, or visit www.cam-online.com for more information. Aug. 20 – CAM Connect Crusin’ Into CAM – Families are welcome at this event, which is free to CAM Members. R.S.V.P. by August 10 to reserve an Exclusive All Access Pit Pass to watch the Woodward Dream Cruise from CAM’s Woodward Avenue location. R.S.V.P. by contacting Mary Carabott at 248-972-1000, or visit www.cam-online.com for more information. Aug. 23-Sept. 12 – CAM Golf Outings – August 23 – Fieldstone, Auburn Hills September 12 – Paint Creek Country Club, Lake Orion To reserve a spot in either of these outings, call Diana Brown at 248-972-1000. Sep. 22 – Building Connections – The seventh annual Building Connections, a networking event in conjunction with CAM to benefit the Boy Scouts of America, Great Lakes Council, will be held at the Parade Company in Detroit. For more information, call or e-mail Gregg Montowski at 248-972-1000 or montowski@cam-online.com. Sep. 22-24 – IIDEX/NeoCon Canada – This conference and exposition presented by Interior Designers of Canada will be held at the Direct Energy Center in Toronto. For more information, please visit www.iidexneocon.com.
NOW INCLUDES Construction Pre-View Projects!!
Training Calendar CAMTEC Class Schedule CAMTEC, the training & education center of the Construction Association of Michigan, has announced its 2011 class schedule. To register, obtain a class listing, or for more class information, please visit www.cam-online.com. Start Date Class Sep. 6 OSHA 30-Hour Sep. 13 Blueprint Reading II/Intermediate Sep. 14 Construction Industry Technician (C.I.T.) Sep. 15 Blueprint Reading I/Basic Sep. 21 First Aid, CPR & AED
Visit us online at www.cammagazineonline.com
CAM MAGAZINE
AUGUST 2011
33
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BUYERS GUIDE
s e t a d p U
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Commercial & Industrial work including Pipe Lining
Pipe Locating
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Spot Repairs
Sewer Cleaning
Pipe Cleaning
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ADVERTISERS INDEX Aluminum Supply Company/Marshall Sales..........................6 Barlen Sanitation Solutions, Inc. ..............................................23 Beals Hubbard, PLC ................................................................14, 15 CAM Affinity ....................................................................................BC CAM ECPN ........................................................................................33 CAM Membership ........................................................................IBC Concrete Moisture Control ........................................................23 Connelly Crane Rental Corp. ......................................................31 Detroit Terrazzo Contractors Association..............................23 Doeren Mayhew ............................................................................28 Facca, Richter & Pregler, P.C. ..........................................................8 G2 Consulting Group....................................................................31 Hartland Insurance Group, Inc. ....................................................5 Hilti ......................................................................................................29 Interface Financial Group ............................................................8 Jeffers Crane Service, Inc. ..............................................................3 Kotz, Sangster, Wysocki and Berg, P.C. ....................................13 Lawrence Technological University ........................................10 McCoig Materials ..............................................................................5 Michigan Concrete Association ..................................................3 North American Dismantling Corp. ........................................20 Oakland Companies ........................................................................7 Plante & Moran, PLLC....................................................................22 Plumbing Professors ....................................................................34 Plunkett Cooney ............................................................................19 R.L. Deppmann Co. ..........................................................................7 Rick's Portables ..............................................................................10 Rolland L. Stapleton & Associates ............................................20 SMRCA................................................................................................18 Sullivan, Ward, Asher & Patton, P.C. ..........................................16 Valenti Trobec Chandler, Inc./ Griffin Smalley & Wilkerson ................................................IFC Woods Contruction Inc. ..............................................................23
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CAM MAGAZINE
AUGUST 2011
s you all are probably aware, the 2011 Construction Buyers Guide has been out on the street for several months now. In an effort to keep our information as accurate and up-to-date as possible, we’re including here all the changes and corrections we have received for members’ company listings as of July 11. Changes from the book are in bold. To see continually amended company listings, check out the Buyers Guide Online at www.cam-online.com, updated about the 15th of every month. Return to this section every month in CAM Magazine to get heads-up information and news involving the Construction Buyers Guide. Questions? Contact Mary Carabott at 248-972-1000 for answers and to find out how to add to your online listings. No updates will be made to the online Buyers Guide from July 15 thru January 30. To obtain additional copies of the Guide, stop by the CAM office and pick them up at no additional charge, or send $6 per book for shipping to have the books sent to your company via UPS. Please call ahead of time for authorization if your firm requires a substantial number of copies. Invoices for the listings have been generated and mailed. Prompt payment ensures a good-standing membership and ability to list in the 2012 Buyers Guide. We will gladly answer any questions regarding charges on invoices. Preparation for the 2012 Buyers Guide has begun – look for renewal forms in your mail in mid-August.
A
American Carpet Wholesale & Supply 5930 Commerce Dr. Westland, MI 48185 Phone: 734-464-0733 Berkley Research Group (BRG) 3250 W. Big Beaver Rd., Suite 327 Troy, MI 48084 Phone: 248-566-4051 Fax: 248-643-4782
Cranbrook Insurance Agency 30200 Telegraph Rd., Suite 137 Bingham Farms, MI 48025 Phone: 248-335-0000 Fax: 248-335-9850
Spirit & Sons, Inc. (Formerly Spirit Roofing Co., Inc.) 60 Summit Brighton, MI 48116 Phone: 810-225-6500 Fax: 810-225-2277
Shaw Electric Co. (Replaces Livonia location only) 22100 Telegraph Rd. Southfield, MI 48033 Phone: 248-228-2000 Fax: 248-228-2080
TEMP-AIR, Inc. 21703 Mound Rd. Warren, MI 48091 Phone: 800-678-1488 Fax: 586-427-2783
Bolhouse, LLC 2704 Edward St. Jenison, MI 49428 Phone: 616-209-7543 Fax: 616-209-7547
W E L C O M E
Trane 37001 Industrial Rd. Livonia, MI 48150 Phone: 734-452-2000 Fax: 734-452-2020
N E W
ADAMS BUILDING CONTRACTORS, INC., JACKSON
M E M B E R S
DIAMA SHIELD, LLC, MADISON HTS. EMPIRE WIRE & SUPPLY, AUBURN HILLS
ALCO GLASS AND MIRROR, INC., BERKLEY
KONE ELEVATOR, LIVONIA
APPLIED ENERGY, LLC, SAGINAW
LOUIE'S TREE SERVICES, COMMERCE TWP.
BAY PLASTICS MACHINERY CO., BAY CITY
MID-STATE RIGGING, BURTON
C & I DISMANTLING, INC., MT. CLEMENS
MILLER COMMUNICATIONS, CLIO
COLLINS EINHORN FARRELL & ULANOFF, SOUTHFIELD “Voice Of The Construction Industry”®
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Help us increase our membership base, which will enable us to expand our range of services, keep pricing consistent and better serve the membership. Think of people and firms that you do business with that are not listed in the Construction Buyers Guide. These people are not members of your association. Sign these firms up for membership in CAM and you will receive $50 toward renewal of your MEMBERSHIP, CONSTRUCTION PROJECT NEWS subscription
OR one of the following, a $50 HOME DEPOT Gift Card or a $50 SPEEDWAY Gas Card for each member firm you sign up!
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Call (800) 954-0423 for more information
Call Greg Haase at (248) 530-2149
Call William Jeffrey at (248) 723-6400