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Volume 13
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Number 2
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FEBRUARY 2015
Clearing to concrete
Check our new website
The T & T Construction team celebrates 40 years in business in 2015.
Plenty of fun features and expanded access await viewers to the new constructionnews.net
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aying a strong foundation, C.A. Taylor originally founded Pasadena-based T & T Construction as a general contracting and construction firm. The company celebrates its 40-year anniversary this year. “My father, who passed away in 1996, moved to Texas from Louisiana,” said Jeff Taylor. “I attended Louisiana State University and later went to Vietnam. Looking for work after the war, my dad told me Houston was the place to live and work.” Taylor packed up his family and they came to the Gulf Coast. After two to three years, Taylor and his dad began working in the concrete industry together.
“As time went along, we built up T & T Construction and we began to shift our focus from general contracting to concrete construction,” he said. Taylor says he was proud to work alongside and learn the business from his father, the man he credits as the driving force in getting the company started by using his innate skill for selling work and completing projects. In 1988, Jeff’s son Ryan, president, became the third generation Taylor to join the firm. He started out as a laborer, learning quickly from the tradesmen and moving his way up through the ranks from helper
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onstruction News is pleased to announce the launch of its new, redesigned website. Welcome to constructionnnews.net, a site where you will find instant access and expanded capabilities to enhance our five printed publications. Our new website has been crafted to reflect what our readers need and want to know. Additionally, the redesigned site builds upon technology capable of addressing future needs. Upon visiting our site, you will immediately notice streamlined menus, simple navigation and access to the information you want. It’s all there for the viewing!
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What’s different? New features run the gamut from easy access to all of our stories – or, if you prefer – stories broken out into the city newspaper they originated in. We now offer classified ads and at present, they are free! So, help us kick it off by taking advantage of this section. Do you need a reprint of your story to add to your walls? It is now easy to order one or more online. Did your secretary keep your copy of the latest Construction News? No problem! Use our easy to find rack location maps to find the closest location to pick up a copy in most areas of the state. continued on Page 13
Research ready
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artlett Cocke General Contractors LLC (BCGC) collaborated with architect PageSoutherlandPage and owner Aramco Services Co. to provide the Houston Research Center project within a short construction duration and consistently changing architectural designs and floor plans. The $25,418,102.93 project started Nov. 2012 and completed in Nov. 2014. Sudip Guha was the senior project manager and Brandon Aery was the project manager. Guha says the Houston Research Center renovation and addition project has more than 54,000sf of office space at 16300 Park Row. “A primary goal of the project was to provide office and laboratory space as quickly as possible,” Guha said. “All entities worked together to identify critical activities and phase design packages to expedite delivery of the project.”
Demolition, long lead equipment, enabling build-out and façade and build out packages were issued ahead of receiving an approved building permit. “This allowed long lead equipment to be removed from the critical path and initial underground/demolition work to proceed,” he said. The facility has laboratory space, imaging, office space, conference rooms, and common areas. A new front façade and landscaping welcomes employees and visitors to the center. According to Guha, the new rear entrance allows employees better access from the Houston Research Center. The facility also included a second floor mezzanine including a conference room and elevator. The auxiliary building is renovation of an existing building and provides private meeting/dining areas, exercise, locker and a meditation room. The Houston Research Center is located at 16300 Park Row.
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Houston Construction News • Feb 2015
Making things happen
Welders work hard at the Cypress facility.
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ative Texan John King, JK Welding Service LLC, says he became interested in welding when he was 17 and has had a knack for it ever since. After working at a few companies, he decided he wanted to open his own business. He has more than 20 years of welding experience. “I have always enjoyed welding and fabricating, as well as having the ability to help customers visualize complex projects when they know what they want, but don’t know how to explain it,” King said. Starting JK Welding in his garage almost 12 years ago, King worked for himself for a couple of years and then moved to a shop. Today, the company operates at 20,000-sf facility on FM 529 in Cypress, TX. “We have the capabilities to maintain the necessary inventory for machin-
ing, shearing, cutting, breaking, and welding metal,” King said. JK Welding is a full service welding company offering custom fabrication, welding and metal repair to clients in Houston, San Antonio, Austin, Dallas, and the surrounding areas. –ab
King says having skilled, dedicated workers is the key to success.
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On the move
exas Paint Supply has moved to a new store at 4120 Directors Row Suite A in Houston. “We actually downsized from our previous location on Hwy. 290, because we wanted to have a store closer to the city,” said owner Josh Clements. “In the past, we were very close to the highway construction project on Hwy. 290. It is nice our customers can easily access our current location.” Clements says he has worked in the paint industry since he graduated high school and began to learn the trade. “I started out in sales at a paint supply company,” he said. “I found out I had a knack for working with people. You really can connect with people with an easygoing personality. I learned that having confidence can go a long way.” When he isn’t at work, Clement says he loves spending time with his wife and their two daughters and son. The Clements family loves going swimming, spending time doing activities around the water and going to church.
Josh Clements looks forward to 2015.
“I am excited about our new location,” Clements said. “We look forward to meeting lots of painting contractors in 2015.” Texas Paint Supply caters primarily to commercial and residential professional paint contractors. –ab
Ivan Gonzales helps customers at the counter.
Submitted to Construction News
Fine dining
Architecture firm Bailey Architects held a holiday party for employees at La Griglia on West Gray in Houston Dec. 11. –an
Houston Construction News • Feb 2015
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Mom, your job is over
Super stars
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L-R: Paul and Gregory Rosales
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ilitary veterans Paul Rosales, regional manager, and his brother Gregory Rosales, warehouse manager, Super Stone Inc., assist concrete contractors with decorative concrete supplies and tools on a daily basis. Super Stone opened in the Houston market in Aug. 2013. The company also has three locations in Florida and one in Las Vegas. “The weather in Miami is similar to Houston as far as the humidity and temperature go,” Paul Rosales said. “Our products fit in with the Houston climate.” Rosales says the company opened a location in Stafford because of the proximity to U.S. 59 and Beltway 8. “Chief executive officer Janine Lutz did research on the area,” he said. “We have wanted to move to this part of the country for a while. “
According to Rosales, the company is dedicated to strengthening relationships with U.S. veterans. “I served with my close friend and fellow U.S. Marine, Johnny Lutz (Janine Lutz’s son), in Iraq and Afghanistan,” Rosales said. “We are hoping to open more locations and continue to honor veterans by giving them the first opportunity at employment.” Super Stone plans to open a location close to the Woodlands in the future and also keep the Stafford location. “We had a great year in 2014,” he said. “We especially picked up March through September when the weather was nice.” During the year, the company holds a two-day seminar in the warehouse to teach concrete contractors new skills or renew their skills. Super Stone provides decorative concrete design products. –ab
Houston
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CONSTRUCTION NEWS
Houston Editor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Abby BeMent HoustonEditor@ConstructionNews.net 832-595-0091 Construction News Ltd. Home Office P.O. Box 791290 • San Antonio, Tx 78279 210-308-5800 Fax 210-308-5960 www.constructionnews.net
Publisher . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Buddy Doebbler Editorial/Production . . . . . . Reesa Doebbler Managing Editor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Cyndi Wright Production Manager . . . . . . . . . Sue Johnson Sales Representative . . . . . . . . . . . . . Jim Reilly Sales Representative . . . . . . . . Kent Gerstner If you are a construction-related company in Harris, Ft. Bend, Galveston or Montgomery counties and are not receiving a free copy of the Houston Construction News, please call for a Requester Form, or visit our website. The Houston Construction News (ISSN 1547-7630) is published monthly by Construction News LTD., dba Houston Construction News, and distributed by mail to construction-related companies in Houston and surrounding counties. All submissions should be mailed to our editorial offices. We reserve the right to edit any materials submitted. No fees for materials, copy or photographs submitted will be due unless agreed upon in advance in writing. Submissions will be published at our discretion on a space available basis. Construction News, Ltd. , dba Houston Construction News, will not be liable for errors in copy or in advertisements beyond the actual cost of space occupied by the error. Publisher reserves the right to reject any advertisement at any time. © 2015 Construction News, Ltd.
On the right: Construction professionals recently networked at the Associated Builders and Contractors Houston Chapter (ABC) membership breakfast event at the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel - Houston Hobby Airport. –ab
Mildred Doebbler at 76
n the early evening hours of Dec. 29, Mildred Doebbler took her last breath and left this world for a better place. Her three children, me being the oldest, were with her at the end - which was only fitting since she was always there for us. She was small in size and always very prim and proper. She was also ornery, strong-headed, opinionated and tough when she needed to be. Like I said at her funeral, I am my mother’s son all right. But there was a much different side of her. She always supported the three of us in whatever we decided we wanted to do. She never missed a football or baseball game when we were playing and my sister had many great experiences because of Mom. She was always there to help us and encourage us and her love for the grandkids and us was always the strongest.
We would sometimes make fun of her little quirks, like dating photos of people in years, months and days. That really came in handy for the funeral, so I guess mother knew best. The last two years of her life were spent in Colonial Gardens Alzheimer's Assisted Living. I know she drove t h e m all crazy at first, wanting perfection for everything, but they came to love her. She was a handful, but they got attached to her and there were lots of tears from staff the day she passed. It was hard to watch this terrible disease take its toll on a once vibrant lady. We can only hope that someday a cure will be found. Mom, you raised your children and took care of daddy but now you can finally rest. Love you always. Buddy Doebbler, Publisher
Submitted to Construction News
Making connections
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Houston Construction News • Feb 2015
Saving tax dollars with a reverse audit John Wellington, Director of State and Local Taxes Lane Gorman Trubitt PLLC Dallas, TX
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f you have not paid all of your Texas sales and use taxes, chances are the Comptroller’s Office will let you know about it. However, when you pay too much sales and use tax, no one is going to tell you. To identify overpayments and seek reimbursements, companies should consider conducting a “reverse audit,” whereby it audits its own records looking for overpayments of sales and use taxes. Take Advantage of Tax Exemptions While many companies have sales and use tax compliance systems in place to prevent overpayment, such systems need to be frequently reviewed to ensure that they are working properly. Business expansion or downsizing, employee turnover, or even just human error can compromise the safeguards you have in place, resulting in overpaying sales and use tax. The majority of overpayments come from unclaimed tax exemptions. With a combined sales tax rate in Texas typically exceeding 8%, it can be well worth your time to ensure that you are claiming all of the exemptions that you are entitled to receive. For example, manufacturers are exempt from sales tax imposed on their manufacturing equipment and related replacement parts and utilities. Beginning in 2014, Texas also offers an exemption for certain research and development expenditures. Timing is Everything One of the best times for conducting a reverse sales and use tax audit is at the start of a major capital project. Even if you cannot commit to the time and expense of a full companywide audit, you can still audit the transactions specifically associated with this project. Not only will you uncover overpayments during the project, but you will also be reminded of previous projects with similar transactions. Another excellent time for a reverse audit is when there is a significant change to state tax law. Changes in tax laws are often overlooked, but can result in significant missed opportunities. As the 2015 Texas Legislature ramps up, many sales tax exemptions are being considered. The Anatomy of a Reverse Audit A reverse audit should look at both your tax compliance systems and your purchasing records. It should encompass your entire business and go back as far as the statute of limitations will allow (four years in Texas).
Sample payments that should be reviewed include: • Warehouse equipment • Safety equipment • Maintenance fees • Service transactions • Software licenses • Protective clothing When examining whether you have made overpayments in these or other areas, it is important to have a comprehensive understanding of your operations and the applicable tax law. Companies must be able to examine the process as a whole to maximize the benefit from potential sales and use tax exemptions. Worth the Investment Reverse audits can be a lengthy and involved process, but the rewards can make it well worth the effort. When utilized to its full potential, a reverse audit will not only allow you to claim refunds of significant amounts of overpaid taxes, but will also enable you to update your compliance systems to minimize overpayments in the future. The intricacies of sales and use tax law are complicated. Before tackling them on your own, be sure to work with your trusted state and local tax specialists. About Lane Gorman Trubitt, PLLC Founded in 1950, Lane Gorman Trubitt PLLC (LGT) is one of the largest certified public accounting firms headquartered in Dallas, Texas. Dedicated to serving the middle market, the firm represents a broad range of clients, from individuals to public companies, in a variety of industries. LGT offers traditional accounting, audit and tax services, as well as various other specialized services. In an effort to expand the services we provide to our valued clients, LGT has launched three affiliated companies, LGT Financial Advisors, LLC, LGT Insurance Services Inc. and LGT Retirement Plan Solutions.
Invisible exclusions, part II Charles E. Comiskey, Sr. V.P. Brady, Chapman, Holland & Associates, inc. Houston, TX
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ast month we began the discussion of “invisible” exclusions – exclusions that may not be brought to the attention of the insurance buyer and that will not be declared on a certificate of insurance. Discussed were three endorsements that gutted the contractual liability coverage required in most construction agreements. This discussion focuses on five other largely invisible endorsements that delete needed (and usually required) coverage. Classification Limitation General liability coverage usually covers all operations of an insured. A classification limitation restricts that coverage only to certain specifically listed classifications on a policy. If an operations falls outside of that description (in the insurance company’s opinion), no coverage is provided. For instance, we recently reviewed the coverage for a large excavation contractor. 100% of their work was performed underground, but their classification as stated on their policy excluded any damage to property underground. Good deal for the insurance company, right? Not so good for the unaware contractor. Habitational or Residential Exclusion When addressing a group of contractors, I like to ask how many of them never do any residential work. The vast majority raise their hand. The follow-up question is whether they would do residential work if requested by their largest customer, or their mother or sister, and the story changes. A residential exclusion is an absolute exclusion. There is no exception for certain customers or family members. What is the definition of “residential”? It varies widely and may be negotiable, but many insurance companies have a very broad definition including anything with a bed – homes, apartments, condos/townhomes, jails/prisons, dorms, barracks, sometimes even hotels or motels. If confronted with a habitational or residential exclusion, don’t assume. Ask. Insured vs. Insured Exclusion A Named Insured vs. Named Insured endorsement excludes cross claims against members of the same economic family and is perfectly acceptable. An Insured vs. Insured exclusion, however, excludes coverage for any claim made by any insured against any other insured. If your firm is an additional insured on another contractor’s coverage, it is an insured. An Insured vs. Insured exclusion eliminates all coverage should your firm bring litigation against that other contractor. Subsidence Exclusion A subsidence exclusion is really a thinly veiled construction defect exclu-
sion. The wording varies from insurance company to insurance company, but usually includes reference to collapse of drains, improper soil compaction and movement of earth in any manner. For any contractor performing underground or concrete work, a subsidence exclusion could be deadly. Punitive, Exemplary or Multiplied Damages Exclusion Punitive/exemplary claims against contractors are rare and difficult to prove, but practically every construction-related claim includes an allegation of violation of the Deceptive Trade Practices Act. This is a much easier allegation to prove, and if proven the damages are multiplied three-fold. As recommended last month, discuss these exclusionary endorsements with your insurance broker, and verify that they are not included in your insurance program. But what if you are the upstream party depending on a certificate of insurance? Two steps can be taken: 1. In your insurance requirements, state that these endorsements are prohibited on the downstream party’s insurance program; and 2. Require a copy of the Schedule of Forms and Endorsements page verifying that they haven’t been included in the underlying insurance program. If any of these endorsements are being used, obtain copies and read them carefully with the assistance of your insurance broker. Attempt to negotiate around any undesirable wording, or consider selecting another contractor whose insurance program more closely complies with your needs. Next month we will discuss frequently misunderstood additional insured issues and the invisible exclusions inherent in them. Charles E. Comiskey, CPCU, CIC, CPIA, CRM, PWCA, CRIS, CCM, is Sr. V.P. of Brady Chapman Holland & Assoc. and is National Chairman of the Construction Insurance Practice Group of RiskProNet International, the 5th largest brokerage organization in the U.S. He can be contacted at 713.979.9706 or charles.comiskey@bchinsurance.com.
Submitted to Construction News
Learning opportunities await
Houston Community College officials broke ground on the very first construction project under the $425 million Groundbreaker Bond Program in December. The ceremony took place at the Northline Campus. Tribble & Stephens Construction Ltd. is the GC.
Houston Construction News • Feb 2015
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Way to go Don’t spoil your claim Karen Landinger, Principal Cokinos, Bosien & Young Austin, TX
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t is common knowledge that if you plan to sue the driver who ran into you at the intersection, you need to photograph, inspect and adjust your damages to preserve your claim. What seems so obvious in the context of an automobile accident often gets lost on the construction site. Deadlines, schedules and weather can all make the need to correct a problem seem more urgent than the need to document the problem. However, without proper documentation, notification and preservation, you might end up picking up the bill for someone else’s mistake. In simple terms, spoliation is the improper alteration or destruction of evidence that is important to the evaluation of claims in litigation. The spoliation of evidence may give rise to a presumption and instruction to the jury that the evidence would have been harmful to the party who destroyed or failed to preserve it. Last year, the Texas Supreme Court instructed that a duty to preserve evidence exists when “a party knows or reasonably should know that there is a substantial chance that a claim will be filed and that evidence in its possession or control will be material and relevant to that claim.” Brookshire Bros., Ltd. v. Aldridge, 438 S.W.3d 9, 20 (Tex. 2014). A spoliation instruction will be provided where “(1) the spoliating party acted with intent to conceal discoverable evidence, or (2) the spoliating party acted negligently and caused the non-spoliating party to be irreparably deprived of any meaningful ability to present a claim or defense.” Petroleum Solutions, Inc. v. Head, 11-0425, 2014 WL 7204399, at *5 (Tex. Dec. 19, 2014). As a result of job site dynamics, spoliation is a considerable risk in the construction industry. In the Miner Dederick case, the spoliation of evidence resulted in the loss of a $727,000 verdict by Gulf Chemical and Metallurgical Corporation (“Gulf”). Miner Dederick Const., LLP v. Gulf Chem. & Metallurgical Corp., 403 S.W.3d 451, 455 (Tex. App.—Houston [1st Dist.] 2013, pet. denied). Gulf contracted with Miner Dederick for the expansion of a hazardous material containment building which included the pouring of a new foundation. Following completion, the foundation began leaking at an expansion joint. Gulf requested that Miner Dederick repair the
expansion joint pursuant to a warranty. Miner Dederick refused to remedy the defect, but sent three separate requests to Gulf asking for the right to inspect the expansion joint. Gulf denied Miner Dederick’s requests, and undertook repair which included covering the expansion joint with a new sealant and pouring several inches of concrete over it. Gulf subsequently sued Miner Dederick for the cost of the repairs. During trial, Miner Dederick sought a spoliation instruction asserting that Gulf destroyed or concealed evidence regarding the alleged defects of the expansion joint. The trial court denied the request and awarded Gulf $727,000 in damages. On appeal, the First Court of Appeals ruled that because Gulf was aware of the chance that it would file a claim against Miner Dederick, Gulf had a duty to preserve the expansion joint, and, by resealing the joint and covering it with concrete, Gulf breached that duty. The court also found that Miner Dederick was injured by Gulf’s action and consequently reversed the judgment of the trial court. Given the harsh effects of a spoliation instruction, contractors would be well advised to err on the side of caution when it comes to preserving evidence. Merely taking photographs and documenting expenses may not be sufficient. See id. at 470 (finding that the value of the spoliating party’s photographic documentation was insufficient because the non-spoliating party did not have opportunity to conduct forensic testing). The Miner Dederick Court suggested that if a party has a legitimate need to destroy evidence, it might discharge its duty by giving the other party notice of the claim and a right to inspect and test the evidence before its destruction. The failure to follow procedures may result in a loss far greater than the delay.
Bob Wilkinson (center)
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obert G. (Bob) Wilkinson, Independent Electrical Contractors Texas Gulf Coast Chapter (IEC), was distinguished as IEC Chapter Executive Director of the Year at the recent IEC national convention. Wilkinson began as a contractor member of the then named IEC Houston chapter in 1983 before being elected to the board of directors. In 1989, he was hired as the executive director of the chapter. In less than 90 days, he doubled the chapter membership and has maintained IEC Texas Gulf Coast as the largest chapter in IEC for his entire tenure. 2014 marked 25 years of service to IEC for Wilkinson. Wilkinson was born and raised in Houston, and is a third generation electrician. He served four years in the U.S. Navy as an electrician's mate. He attend-
ed San Jacinto College and the University of Houston. He spent many years in the field as apprentice, journeyman and foreman, and passed his Master's exam in 1978. Wilkinson is married and he and his wife Gwen have one son and two grandsons. “Bob is truly committed to IEC by helping to start chapters, supporting other chapters, and offering his expertise to IEC National,” said Thayer Long, IEC National executive vice president/CEO. “He is also dedicated to Texas, encouraging sharing and cooperation throughout the region to further IEC and the industry.” The Chapter Executive Director of the Year Award recognizes an IEC chapter executive director who exhibits outstanding leadership, accomplishments and service during the past year. –ab
Construction News ON LOCATION
Paper chase
Karen Landinger is a principal of Cokinos, Bosien &Young, a full service law firm with offices in Houston, San Antonio, Dallas and Austin. For more information on our services, please visit www.cbylaw.com
Rene Castro gears up for a busy day at the Morrison Supply Co. Rosenberg location. –ab
Construction News ON LOCATION
Submitted to Construction News
All together now
Close knit community
L-R: Randy Dyer, Raul Rivas, Kyle Ebbeler and Robert Gerace interact with roofing contractors on a daily basis at West End Roofing, Siding & Windows in Stafford. –ab
The JE Dunn Construction Houston office held a party at the newly renovated historic Leonel J. Castillo Community Center in December. The firm worked with Harris County to redevelop Robert E. Lee Elementary School into the center after community members expressed a strong desire for a neighborhood center in the historic Heights area. –ab
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Houston Construction News • Feb 2015
When did your family move to the Houston area? We moved to Houston in 1957. My dad continued to make a living as a truck driver and my mom worked at Kroger Food Stores. What high school did you attend? I attended Milby High School as a sophomore and for my junior and senior years, I attended Deer Park High School.
Jerry Jackson Owner Classic Paint and Wallcovering Services Inc.
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rom an early age, Jerry Jackson learned a good work ethic from his mother and father. “Coming from a large family it was necessary for me to help with the farming or grocery store work, or by doing odd jobs to help with the family finances,” Jackson said. “I helped with my younger siblings while the older members of the family worked away from the home. It was a valuable experience to grow up on a farm.” Jackson says he has always been a borderline workaholic, arriving to work at 5:30-6am and returning home at 6-6:30pm. “I usually take work home with me, and I have been doing that most of my life,” he said. “Over the years, I have learned to find a balance.” After gaining experience in the painting industry, Jackson opened Classic Paint and Wallcovering Services in Apr. 2000. “Over the years, I have learned that establishing a good working relationship with your clients and colleagues is one of the most important things that you can accomplish,” Jackson said. “This can be achieved by being completely honest, straightforward and dependable.” Tell us about your parents, Jerry. My mother Hester, and father, C.D., raised my three brothers and two sisters and me in a small town near Lubbock called Levelland. My father made a living as a farmer, truck driver and merchant. In the mid ‘40s, my parents owned and operated a full-service gasoline-grocery store. My family and I lived on various sharecrop farms in the mid ‘40s to the late ‘50s. My mom, my siblings and I worked in grocery stores while Dad drove a truck.
Did you play sports in school? I was involved in the Future Farmers of America (FFA) and I also played on the football team. Tell us about your very first job. I helped my parents in the grocery business and on the farms we lived on. After I finished working on the farm, my siblings and I worked for wages weeding the new crops in the summer and harvesting in the fall for other neighboring farmers. It was common for children to help with the farm work during that time. Students were excused from school during the harvest season. During my high school years, I worked in a full-service gasoline station. I also gained experience in the construction industry as a roofer’s helper after school and on weekends. What did you decide to do after you graduated high school? I worked at a machine shop in the daytime and attended classes at Lee College in Baytown at night. What sparked your interest to get into the painting business? I married my first wife when I was 21 and she had two small children. I chose to stop going to school and find a better paying job since I had a ready-made family. My father-In-law was the safety supervisor at the Phillips Petroleum Plant in Pasadena. He got me a job as a helper with a painting subcontractor doing maintenance at the plant. My co-workers, who were journeymen painters, sponsored me as an apprentice painter. I participated in a three-year apprenticeship program and completed my jobsite and school training in 1964. I have been associated with the painting and decorating industry for many years and have worked for several different companies. I spent 23 years working for Courtney & Co., one of the largest paint contractors in the area.
I worked as a paint foreman and moved up to chief estimator, commercial manager and vice president, a position I held until the late ‘80s. After Mr. Courtney retired in 1988, I decided that it was time to move on. I worked for two other local painting contractors, before opening Classic Paint and Wallcovering Services in Apr. 2000. Over the years, we have completed jobs at hospitals, schools and churches in Houston and the surrounding areas. Right now, I have about 25 painters working with me. They have all been with me for about five years. What was it like transitioning from employee to employer? Starting a new venture was made less painful and time-consuming since I worked in this business for so long. It helped that I developed many special friendships and contacts. Who were your mentors in the industry? I am grateful Mr. Courtney shared his wealth of knowledge with me. This knowledge gave me the confidence to overcome and bridge the many pitfalls that are associated with this business. In addition, Allen Roberts Sr. and Martin Derives both were invaluable to me with their advice through the years. Are any of your siblings in the painting business? Yes, my three brothers (now retired) worked in the trade. Are you married today? Yes, I am married to a wonderful woman named Deborah. Our friends and family and I call her “Debbie.” Where did you and Debbie meet? Debbie and I met while I was doing an onsite survey for a bid at a doctor’s office in the Heights. Debbie was employed at the doctor’s office at the time. We got married Feb.14, 1979.
Jerry Jackson has been deer hunting in Colorado, in South Texas and near the Texas Hill Country.
How do you decompress when you aren’t at the office? I have enjoyed going hunting and fishing over the years. I first started going hunting after I graduated high school. I like going whitetail deer hunting with friends and family in November and December. I seldom shoot deer anymore. Instead, I just like to spend time in nature and videotape the deer early in the morning and in the afternoon. I have been deer hunting in Colorado a couple of times, in South Texas and near the Texas Hill Country. I just like to relax and get away from the telephones for a little while. I really love the peace and quiet. The time that I spend relaxing with family and friends is invaluable to me.
Tell us about Debbie. Debbie is a loving Christian and is very generous, understanding and supportive.
What was one of your most memorable vacations? My wife and I had a great vacation at Lake Tahoe. I was able to get away from the business and still stay in touch with my clients with the use of cell phones, text messages, electronic blueprints and laptops.
How do you stay up-to-date in your industry? Belonging to industry associations as well as attending educational seminars at both the state and national level keeps me up-to-date with the changes in the industry. I read publications, such as Houston Construction News to help me stay abreast of what is going on in the construction industry. I am always learning about the latest technology that impacts the construction community, particularly the painting Industry.
Any plans to retire? I plan to keep on working and running the company in the future, but I’d like to cut back on my hours. What is the best part about what you do today? I enjoy having the opportunity to choose my employees, clients and support groups to assist me in delivering a constant quality, dependable and competitive service/product. I love being a part of the building and beautification of this great city and state. – ab
Submitted to Construction News
Top of the class
The Roofing Contractors Association of Texas Houston Chapter (RCAT) held a recent mixer at Top Golf Houston. Pictured: Owner Paul Kropf (second from left) and the Final Touch Roofing crew –ab
Houston Construction News • Feb 2015
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Mother Nature Cranks Up Winter by Capt. Steve Schultz Sponsored by: Premier Yamaha Boating Center, Majek Boats, E-Z Bel Construction, Power Pole Shallow Water Anchor, Aggregate Haulers, Interstate Batteries, Pure Fishing, Mirr-O-Lure, ForEverlast Hunting and Fishing Products and Columbia Sportswear.
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s we roll into February, which I consider our coldest part of the winter, we are faced with constant weather changes. Cold fronts every four to five days followed by warming trends in between. This makes it hard to plan for any type of outing on the water, mainly because you never know how severe the weather is going to be, and depending on an accurate weather forecast is practically impossible. For this reason, you
Mark Afram of Corpus Christi caught this 4-lb. Speck on an Original Corky Devil on a cold morning last month in Baffin Bay, while fishing with Capt. Steve Schultz. Water temp. was 46 deggrees at the start of the day.
must be ready to roll on the spur of the moment. February can be a tough time to locate fish, but with a little knowledge of fish habits, you can eliminate a lot of water and narrow down the areas in which you want to fish. Learn to read the water. By that I mean look for signs of baitfish and game fish that may be present. Some examples would be, starting with the most obvious, is feeding sea gulls. Find the feeding gulls and specks are sure to be present. Feeding pelicans are another dead give-away. Schools of hungry specks are feeding on the shrimp or baitfish, send-
Submitted to Construction News
Nice shot
ing them fleeing to the surface to escape. Another sign of feeding specks are so called “SLICKS.” The active feeding of game fish and regurgitation of baitfish they are eating cause these oil slicks floating on the surface. You will usually detect a sweet smell near the slicks. Fishing under and around these slicks is very productive for specks, as most fish will be caught on the bottom as they wait for injured baitfish and/or the remains of baitfish falling from the surface. The best way to fish the birds or the slicks is to quietly drift or wade into the area being extra careful not to disturb the feeding fish. If you’re in a boat equipped with a troll-
ing motor, use it instead of running your outboard! Fishing pressure is beginning to be a big issue this time of the year. With most of the anglers wading and pre-fishing for upcoming tournaments, you can bet there will be someone in a spot where your want to fish, especially if it’s one of the more popular spots in Baffin. Cathead, East Kleberg and some of the other well-known areas that have been known for big fish will be congested always. If you’re in one of the more popular spots and fish don’t seem to be biting, don’t throw in the towel too early. When you decide on an area to fish, give it time. I sometimes see a fisherman pull into an area to fish and get out of his boat. If he is not catching anything in a short while, he will get back into his boat and leave to try another area. It’s important to fish an area thoroughly. This time of the year your cast-to-catch ratio is probably going to be 300 to 1. In the product section this month is something that every angler must have if they are wading in fridge water of the Laguna Madre. My Simms waders are by far the most important item on the boat during the winter months. They are the toughest, driest, and most comfortable pair of waders I have ever owned. Layering up with Simms clothing and finishing out with your Simms waders, you will be assured that you can with stand Mother Nature’s hashish conditions. To schedule your next bay fishing trip give Capt. Steve Schultz a call at 361813-3716 or 361-334-3105 or e-mail him at SteveSchultzOutdoors@gmail.com. Already booking for the 2015-fishing season. Good luck and Good Fishing.
STEVE SCHULTZ OUTDOORS, LLC BAFFIN BAY –– LAGUNA MADRE –– LAND CUT SPECKLED TROUT –– REDFISH –– FLOUNDER FISHING AND HUNTING TRIPS
(361) 813-3716 (361) 334-3105 www.baffinbaycharters.com steveschultzoutdoors@gmail.com U.S. Coast Guard & Texas Parks and Wildlife Licensed
Diffco LLC employees shot sporting clays at the Shooting for a Cure event benefiting the Ric Summers Appendiceal Cancer Research Fund at MD Anderson. The event took place at the American Shooting Centers. –ab
Submitted to Construction News
Swing for the fences
The Texas Fence Co. team had some much needed fun at TopGolf Spring after a great week. –ab
Page 8
Houston Construction News • Feb 2015
Ken Milam’s Fishing Line Since 1981, Ken Milam has been guiding fishing trips for striped bass on Lake Buchanan in the Texas Hill Country,. You can hear Ken on radio on Saturday and Sunday mornings, 6-8 AM on AM 1300, The Zone – Austin, or http://www.am1300the zone.com
How to get the most from your guide I have been a fishing guide since 1981. I have fished thousands of trips and met jillions of fine people. For the most part things go well, but not every time. Sometimes people can mess up their own trip without even trying. Here are some tips to help you always get the most out of your guided hunting or fishing trips. 1. Give your guide some lead-time. This is especially important if you need a trip during a high demand time like spring break or summer vacation. Remember, if you know about a good guide, there are probably a couple of thousand other people that have his phone number too. The further you can plan ahead, the better chance you get the day you want. 2. It is never a good idea to change the game plan without advising your guide. It is understandable that the number of people in your party might change between the time you book a trip and finally get to go. Tell your
guide so he can have what is needed for your trip at hand or help you make other arrangements. If you find you are running late, let your guide know. 3. Don’t show up to your fishing or hunting trip stinking drunk. Nothing spoils a good time like having to wag a semi-conscious hunting buddy all over the pasture with you. Find out what your guide’s policy is regarding alcohol. If it is permitted, be sure you have a designated driver so you don’t have to sleep it off in the guide’s back yard. 4. Try not to bring too much stuff. When you are on a guided trip you need to be able to move around well and not be hindered by gadgets, excess baggage and monster ice chests. Ask your guide what you need to have with you. 5. Keep an eye on the weather, not the weather where you live, but the weather in the locale where you will be fishing or hunting. Every year we see a lot of people bail out of the truck looking like they came to the wrong party. Weather is not just what happens to you on the way to the car. When in doubt, call your guide. You can be sure he will know what to expect because his very livelihood depends on him knowing what direction the
wind is coming from. 6. If you are an experienced hunter or fisherman it’s okay to share your stories with the rest of your party. Just don’t be a know-it-all. When you hire a guide, you are getting a chance to learn from his experience. Everyone does things in their own way and you are sure to pick up something useful if you just keep your eyes and ears and your mind open. 7. Don’t expect the guide to discipline your children. If your kids are disruptive and disobedient, they may not be ready for a guided hunting or fishing trip. Most guides enjoy getting to work with kids because it’s fun to see them have a good time and learn something new, but your trip is still serious business. Just remember you hired a guide, not a babysitter. 8. Last but not least…tipping. If your guide has done a good job for you, reach in your pocket and tip the man. Your tip will be much appreciated and will let him know he did you a good job. Try not to ask your guide to give you back $2.50 in change. C’mon! In short guides are people too. We want to do the best job for you that we possibly can if you will let us.
Submitted to Construction News
Duck, duck, goose
Submitted to Construction News
The buck stops here
Keith Blahuta, senior project manager, Hudson Building Systems, (center) is also a goose and duck guide for Red Bluff Prairie Hunting Club out of Garwood, TX. Pictured is another successful limit hunt. –ab
Submitted to Construction News
Happy hunter
L-R: Carson and Connor Schultz both harvested their first buck this season. (Capt. Steve Schultz’s sons (Steve Schultz Outdoors) Carson’s deer was a straight up six-pointer weighing 165 lbs. and Connor’s deer was an eight-pointer weighing 175 lbs. Both deer were harvested in McMullen Co. Way to go boys! Made Dad Proud! –rd
Sales Manager Joe Lacy, Diamond Hydraulics Inc., shot this 10-point buck at Esser Ranch Dec. 27. –ab
Houston Construction News • Feb 2015
Page 9
Construction News JOB SIGHT
Thank you Dear Houston Construction News readers, We hope you have had a great start to 2015. We wanted to take this moment to thank you for your continued readership and support over the years. If you have read Houston Construction News for a while now, you know what we are all about. If you are a new reader, we wanted to share the paper’s history. It’s funny how good ideas come about. A newspaper for the construction industry in Texas? That idea had its beginnings at a surprising place: the kitchen table of Buddy and Reesa Doebbler. The Doebblers had noticed that mainstream media largely ignores this vital segment of the population. Coming from the construction industry themselves, they felt confident that they could remedy the situation. On Oct. 1, 1998, the paper made its debut in the Doebblers’ hometown of San Antonio. The Doebblers started out with the goal to recognize the accomplishments of the men, women and companies in the San Antonio market in a widely circulated publication that went to all the industry, not just small segments. Their second goal was to expand this concept to the major metropolitan areas of Dallas/Fort Worth, Austin and Houston, to be the largest circulation construction publication in the state. Houston Construction News became a monthly publication with the October 2003 issue. The Doebbler’s get great pleasure when a new company is featured in the paper. When they started out in business, many people helped them. Now, being able to help new companies get off the ground with positive exposure is, to them, giving back. We want to thank our advertisers over the past year who have realized that Construction News is the place to seeand-be-seen. They keep The Industry’s Newspaper afloat! We want you to know how much you are appreciated. You represent the lifeblood that sustains us.
Pour day
Houston Construction News remains a “good news” newspaper, reporting the positive aspects and accomplishments that make this industry and its people so dynamic. Time and again, readers report appreciation for the articles they read about their current or long lost friends and associates. In many cases, they are compelled to pick up the phone and get back in touch – even drop a copy of the article in the mail – just to let them know they saw their article in The Industry’s Newspaper. Each issue highlights a construction project by a local general contractor on the front page. Our in-depth Spotlight interview introduces industry business owners or executives by sharing their personal histories, outside interests and business accomplishments. Your outdoor photos and stories can be published in the Great Outdoor section. Our editorial content explores topics and reports about events you will not read anywhere else. In addition to including statewide and national coverage when appropriate, reporting positive aspects from the local scene is our first priority. On a personal note: I’ve enjoyed meeting many of you at your company or on a jobsite and hearing from you through phone calls and emails. I look forward to telling more of your stories in coming months. If you have news that would inform or entertain our readers, please send an email to houstoneditor@constructionnews.net or give me a call at 832-595-0091. –ab
The Diffco LLC crew pours concrete at the FedEx Distribution Center project in Spring. Cooper Construction is the GC. –ab
Construction News JOB SIGHT
Digging dirt
Abby BeMent Editor An equipment operator performs sitework at the Calvary Korean Church new construction project in Houston. Maxx Builders is the GC. –ab
Submitted to Construction News
Street art
H Location H Location Austin H Location H Location San Antonio H Location Publishing the Industry’s News . . .
TEXAS Style
Chelsea Serrano-Piche, Christina Zeibak and John Cadenhead, Powers Brown Architecture, participated in Via Colori, a street painting festival which raised funds for the Center for Hearing and Speech in Houston. –ab
Half or Full Day Fishing Trips All Bait, Tackle & Equipment Furnished Your catch Filleted and Bagged for You
Ken Milam Guide Service (325) 379-2051 www.striperfever.com
Furnish your TPWD Fishing License & Refreshments, and WE DO THE REST!
Dallas/Fort. Worth
Houston South Texas
Home Office (210) 308-5800 www.constructionnews.net
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Houston Construction News • Feb 2015
All you need is love
C
upid is busy in February. We found hard working couples that work side by side in the Houston construction industry on a daily basis. Owner Chris Walters, Extreme Air Conditioning, and his wife April celebrated their 20-year wedding anniversary in October. They also renewed their wedding vows. “April and I have worked together for 19 years here are Extreme Air Conditioning,” Walters said. “Although April would tell you in that time she has been fired twice and quit three times. LOL.” Ammie Hudson-Blahuta, business development and her husband Keith Blahuta, senior project manager, Hudson Building Systems, got married four years ago - going on five. “We have two children today,” Ammie Hudson-Blahuta said. “Keith will celebrate 10 years with the company this summer. I have worked at the family business on and off most of my life and six years in business development.” Justin Tracy, owner of Tracy Drywall and his wife, Jennifer, have been in the business together as business partners since their wedding day in 2003. These days, Tracy says he goes to jobsites to handle estimates while Jennifer runs the office, answers the phones, does the scheduling and talks with customers. Carol and Glenn Pitman, Pitman Construction, have known each other since the 8th grade and have worked together for more than 25 years. “I was actually his first date and I dumped him at a party he took me to because I liked another guy,” Carol Pitman said. “His dad actually picked me up and took us. I really look back and say, ‘how could I have done that to him?’ “Glenn never forgave me until we met again in 1985 by fate. We were both at the same hangout at the same time.
Chris and April Walters with their granddaughter when they renewed their wedding vows. L-R: Glenn and Carol Pitman
L-R: Ammie Hudson-Blahuta and her husband Keith
Construction News ON LOCATION
Two for the team
L-R: Justin and Jennifer Tracy
We dated for about a year and got married on Jul. 26, 1986. Glenn and I have been married 28 years going on 29. He is a great dad, husband and a wonderful best friend.” Love is in the air! All of us from Construction News wish you a very Happy Valentine’s Day. –ab
L-R: Journeyman plumber Johnny Evans, Howell Services, helps apprentice John Barrios learn the ropes in the field. The company provides plumbing, air conditioning, heating and insulation services. –ab
Houston Construction News • Feb 2015
Page 11
Construction Safety Partners in safety Account Manager and
Casey Wenzel,
Regional Manager
MEMCO
San Antonio and Houston, TX Wenzel
S
afety on the job is always a priority. If you’re a contractor, every employee’s safety is your responsibility. But what happens when your employee comes from a staffing company? The answer is that his or her safety and job-specific training is still your responsibility; however, you have a partner in the employee-protection process. Marek Employment Management Company, known as MEMCO, provides skilled tradesmen/semi-skilled workers and unskilled labor for a wide variety of commercial construction companies. Along with local OSHA representative Raul Carrillo, Jon Marek, manager for MEMCO in San Antonio, helped establish a partnership between MEMCO and OSHA through the safety administration’s alliance program. Marek cites excerpts from a document available at OSHA’s website, “Recommended Practices: Protecting Temporary Workers” with guidelines for the responsibilities regarding a contractor and staffing company:
“Staffing agencies should provide general safety and health training applicable to different occupational settings, and the host employers provide specific training tailored to the particular hazards at their workplaces.” “Host employers should provide temporary workers with safety training that is identical or equivalent to that provided to the host employers’ own employees performing the same or similar work.” “Staffing agencies need not become experts on specific workplace hazards, but should determine what conditions exist at the worksite, what hazards may
Cultural transformation: Establishing safety as everyone’s core value Chris Williams, Safety Director Associated Builders & Contractors Inc. Arlington, VA
C
onsider these two safety vision statements: - “On every project, at all times, safety is our top priority.” - “We make NO compromise with respect to morality, ethics, or safety. If a design or work practice is perceived to be unsafe, we do not proceed until the issue is resolved.”
Both sound great on the surface - “at all times, safety is our top priority” and “we make NO compromise”. Yet, they reflect two distinctly different safety cultures, which show in their overall safety performance. Consider that, for the company where safety is a priority, their Total Recordable Incidence Rate (TRIR) is a full two times the national average for a construction company of their size and work type. The TRIR for the company that doesn’t compromise on safety, and won’t proceed until safety issues are resolved? 0.20. That’s 95% below the industry average. The simple reason behind why company A and company B have such vastly different safety numbers lies in how leadership and, as an extension, their employees, perceive safety. When safety is perceived as a priority, it means that
While the staffing company is the primary employer on paper, the contractor client is still the supervising employer. Marek, who believes most injuries are preventable, equates MEMCO’s role to being like an HR and risk management team. In this joint-venture employment structure, when an employee is injured on the job, MEMCO will respond to the injury, specifically MEMCO employees Marek and David Musquiz, who both have their OSHA 30. They act as the employee rep, and they will handle the injury for their client. MEMCO and their client each records the injury. To promote safety in the industry, MEMCO’s San Antonio facility recently added a classroom where they have already hosted OSHA training classes. Marek explains the goal is to have a variety of inexpensive training opportunities throughout the year. He notes that this gives associations such as the Hispanic Contractors Association (HCA) and American Subcontractors Association (ASA) an
ery employee, that not only is every incident preventable, but that each employee is responsible to their safety and the safety of those around them. Sounds great in theory, but what about when you have 150 employees on five different jobsites and superintendents with three distinctly different leadership styles? Or, how about, as with Company B (where they don’t compromise on safety and won’t perform the task until it’s completely safe), with 4,000 employees worldwide? Transforming your culture isn’t as difficult as you may think. Again, it all starts with the CEO and senior leadership’s commitment to sending every employee home in the same, or better, condition than which they arrived, and exhibiting that commitment to all employees. That causes a trickle-down effect regional managers and superintendents see this commitment to safety as the core value and, regardless of leadership style, begin to use it with their crews. Focus rewards not on the number of hours worked without a lost-time incident, but individuals who stopped work when they recognized a hazard or who helped a fellow employee safely tie off. In short, everyone is responsible for - and accountable to - each other. Take the Alcoa example; when Paul O’Neill (who would later become Treasury Secretary under President George W. Bush) took over as CEO in 1987, he stated unequivocally that his core value was a zero-injury workplace. He needed to change the culture.
Because of O’Neill, the automatic routine at Alcoa became that, for any injury, the unit president had to report it to the CEO directly within 24 hours and present a plan to ensure that the type of injury never occurred again. If you embraced the system, you were promoted. Floor employees became supervisors; supervisors became directors; directors became vice presidents - if they committed to zero injuries and embraced the routine of making sure you learned everything possible from them to prevent them in the future. What happened next was astonishing - not only did Alcoa’s safety program change from reactive to proactive, but its entire culture shifted - the keystone safety habits O’Neill instituted built new corporate habits that streamlined the company’s manufacturing process and increased profits (and employee salaries). Transforming a safety culture from one where safety is a priority to one where safety is THE core value doesn’t have to be difficult; it just takes commitment and instilling the importance that each team member not only performs their duties safely, but also watches out for their coworkers. It’s about creating a sense of family, building relationships among our employees so that everyone understands that safety isn’t about the individual, but the people and our families that we work and live with. It’s an interdependent effort, and one that, as we’ve seen in the examples above, can be achieved no matter the company’s size. –cw
“The supervising employer is required to set up a method for employees to report work-related injuries and illnesses promptly and must inform each employee how to report work-related injuries and illnesses.”
Jon Marek,
Marek
additional location to hold their OSHA/ Educational classes. Some of MEMCO’s clients don’t have a facility to do their inhouse training, and they will now be able to use the new classroom. Regarding the benefits of the alliance with OSHA, Casey Wenzel, MEMCO’s Houston-based regional manager, explains, “Establishing a personal relationship with the local OSHA representative gives us great access to information, and having a relationship with OSHA prior to a jobsite inspection, we already have a rapport. So, there is a comfort level, and this is a great benefit to our customers, who are ultimately the responsible party. “It’s all about cooperation. Construction is obviously a high-risk industry, and there are a lot of misconceptions out there with regard to responsibility of temporary employees’ safety on a jobsite. Regardless of whether the employee is permanent or temporary, that employee is the responsibility of the supervising contractor – and as a staffing company, it’s our responsibility to make sure our customers are providing the appropriate training and equipment, and to help provide guidance when needed. “Ultimately, the safety of our employees depends on our customer. If we can help our customers establish a safer worksite, we can help keep costs down, keep breadwinners providing for their family, and hopefully better the industry as a whole.” –mh
be encountered, and how to best ensure protection for the temporary workers.”
other priorities - schedules, cost overruns, etc. - can move ahead of safety. When safety is a priority, the emphasis on performing work safely, every single time, without exception, lags or is shunned completely. A safety climate is established - one that changes constantly and one where safety is important only when things are going well. A true world-class safety culture one where a near-miss, let alone an incident, is considered as a failure to be remedied immediately and learned from to prevent it from occurring again - places safety as its core value, upon which every decision, big or small, is based. The foundation of that culture is leadership’s uncompromising commitment to achieving a zero-incident jobsite and unwillingness to waver from safety as their core value. The structure of a world-class safety culture comes from the total belief, by ev-
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Houston Construction News • Feb 2015
Association Calendar
Submitted to Construction News
Merry and bright
Content submitted by Associations to Construction News ABC Associated Builders & Contractors
Feb. 9-10: Legislative Day Feb. 17-19: OSHA 2264 Feb. 18: Legal Seminar Feb. 19: Texas Hold’em Poker Tournament Feb. 27: LEED Green Advantage For more information call 713-523-6222
ACCA Air Conditioning Contractors of Amer.
Feb. 17: Monthly meeting, 5:30pm Social Hour, 6:30 Dinner and Guest Speaker Mark Bailey, Financial Advisor Edward Jones, $25 members Feb. 18: HR Alignment Lunch & Learn with Mike Dobbert – 2015 Employment Labor Law, 11:30am-1pm, ACCA-GH Training Room, Cost $25 Members $39 Non-Members For more information call 713-781-4822
AGC Associated General Contractors
Feb. 3-6: OSHA 3095: Electrical Standards Feb. 5: Member Mixer Feb. 11: First Aid/CPR/AED Training Feb. 13: Certificate of Management-BIM Credentialing Exam Feb. 17-18: Project Manager Development Program Module 1: Estimating and Job Costing Feb. 24: BIM Unit 2: Technology 2nd Edition Feb. 24-26: SH 200: Trainer Course for H2S For more information call 713-843-3700
AIA American Institute of Architects
Feb. 7: Montrose Walking Tour Feb 14: UH Art & Architecture Walking Tour Feb 19: Small Firm Roundtable Feb. 21: Towers & Trees Downtown Walking Tour Feb. 26: Authors in Architecture Feb. 28: Museum District Walking Tour For more information call 713-520-0155
ASA American Subcontractors Association
Feb. 4: Membership Committee meeting, 9am; Schmooze & Mingle, 4pm Feb. 5: Associate Member Peer Group, 2pm Feb. 19: BPI Session, 11am, General Lunch meeting, 11:30am Feb. 24: 60 Minutes With An Industry Ex-
pert: How To Maximize The Value Of Your Business, 7:30am, Safety Committee meeting, 10am For more information call 281- 679-1877
FPA Foundation Performance Assoc.
Feb. 11: Presentation, 5pm, Topic: Admixtures in Concrete, Presenter: Ben Brooks, Patriot Court System For more information visit www.foundationperformance.org
IEC Independent Electrical Contractors
Feb. 4: State Maintenance Exam Prep (201), 6pm, Wednesdays, Contractor Members $240/Non-Members $290 Feb. 5: State Journeyman Exam Prep Class (301), 6pm, Thursdays, Contractor Member $240/Non-Member $290; Motor Controls Level I Class (100), 6pm, Thursdays, Contractor Members $400/ Non-Members $475 Feb. 7: State Masters Exam Prep Class (401), 8am, Saturdays, Contractor Members $325/Non-Members $390 Feb. 18: Monthly meeting For more information call 713-869-1976
L-R: Tonia Labbe and Glenn Rex The Mechanical Contractors Association Houston Chapter (MCA) held a Christmas party at the Houston Engineering & Scientific Society in December. MCA presented a donation to The Nehemiah Center “Christmas Angels” program at the event.
Taking the reign
NAWIC Nat’l Assn. of Women in Construction
Feb. 10: General Dinner meeting: Health Safety & Environment, 5:30-6pm Networking, 6-8pm Dinner and Business meeting, HESS Club, 5340 Westheimer Rd. Cost: $35 Dinner & Program with reservation, $40 Dinner & Program without reservation, $8 Program only, Membership is not a requirement for attendance – guests are always welcome For more information visit www.nawichouston.org
NECA National Electrical Contractor Assn.
Feb. 10: Coastal Sabine Valentine’s Dinner Feb. 12: Houston Valentine’s Dinner Feb. 17: Galveston Division meeting Feb 18: TXGC Division and TXGCLMP meeting For more information call 713-977-2522
WCA Women Contractors Association
Feb. 3: Networking Luncheon, Forecast of Houston Economy and Board Induction Feb. 24: Mixer – Pinot’s Palette For more information visit www.womencontractors.org
T
he Associated General Contractors Houston Chapter (AGC) has named William “Bill” Scott III chairman for 2015-16. Scott is executive vice president for the Linbeck Group LLC and has been with the Houston-based construction firm for 39 years. AGC Houston recently elected members to lead its board of directors in 2015. –ab Executive officers Vice-Chairman of the Board: James Bryant, Anslow Bryant Construction Ltd. Secretary: Dan Gilbane, Gilbane Building Co. Treasurer: Tadd Tellepsen, Tellepsen President/CEO: Jerry Nevlud, AGC Houston Board of directors: Bob Adair, Construction Ecoservices; James Bryant, Anslow Bryant Construction Ltd.; Jay Carlton, Sterling Structures Inc.; Pat Cartwright, Manhattan Construction Co.; Doug Combes, Chamberlin Roofing & Waterproofing; Steve Dishman, Brookstone LP; Bob Fretz, Jr., Fretz
William “Bill” Scott III
Construction Co.; Marty Garza, Bartlett Cocke General Contractors; Dan Gilbane, Gilbane Building Co.; Tony Gonzalez, The Gonzalez Group; Ken Humphries, Humphries Construction Corp.; Gregg Lynch, Rogers-O’Brien Construction; Tony Mansoorian, W. S. Bellows Construction Corp.; Doug McCuen, R & M Service Co. Inc., Steve Mechler, Balfour Beatty Construction; Brandon Meyers, SpawGlass Construction Corp.; Murray Neal, MLN Company; Jon Pollock, Trio Electric Ltd.; William Scott, III, Linbeck Group LLC; Tad Tellepsen, Tellepsen and Don Woo, Mission Constructors Inc.
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www.constructionnews.net Select “Rack Locations” for a complete list of all rack locations where newspapers can be picked up. We do not mail additional newspapers.
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Houston Construction News • Feb 2015
Page 13
Round-Up
Construction News ON LOCATION
Electric smiles
LJA Engineering Inc. has promoted Mark Swanson, PE, to senior project manager in the firm’s Houston land development division. Swanson has more than 15 years of experience and will continue to expand upon marketing and business development activities within the company. Swanson has a B.S. degree in Civil Engineering from Texas A&M University.
to finisher, to foreman, to job superintendent, to project manager and trusted right hand to his father. “My dad and I became full partners in the business in 2005 and I become 100 percent owner in 2013,” Ryan Taylor said. “We completed more than 200 projects in 2014 with no recordable injuries and over 500,000 company miles of safe driving. “In addition, we formed relationships with several new customers and experienced a great year of growth.” Amanda Taylor is the office manager and Heather Taylor is the director of office operations. “We all believe in keeping the business in the family, continuing to build a
positive reputation amongst the customers and maintaining great employees,” Taylor said. T & T Construction is active in the Chamber of Commerce, Deer Park Rotary Club, city committees and local political action groups. “Our goal for 2015 is to add a volumetric mixer to our fleet so we can begin making our own concrete,” Taylor said. “We look forward to having another successful year!” Established in 1975, T & T Construction is a civil construction contractor providing services such as site work and storm drainage installation, industrial concrete services and general construction. –ab
continued from Page 1 — Check our website Additionally, you can find a full PDF version of our latest papers – even getting a past issue is a breeze. And speaking of searching, don’t worry – we’ve included a nice search function that will allow you to find exactly that story or photo you remember seeing, but can’t quite remember when,
in one of our local editions. So, jump in and start exploring. Let us know what you think. As always, contact us with your questions, comments and suggestions – you can find that information under the “contact us” tab right at the top.
continued from Page 1 — Research ready The exterior construction materials used included structural steel, cold formed metal framing, plaster, EIFS, standing seam metal roof, TPO membrane roofing, curtain wall, dri-design metal wall panels, cable net glass system and aluminum storefront entrances. Interior materials used were gypsum board wall and ceilings, acoustical ceilings, epoxy floors, VCT, carpet, ceramic tile flooring, glass tile, porcelain tile, paint, epoxy marker board surfaces, interior window and door frames, PLAM doors, millwork, stainless steel toilet partitions, lab casework and fume hoods and mechanical, plumbing, and electrical systems. “The phased design releases, labora-
tories and associated infrastructure and high end interior and exterior finishes make this project unique,” Guha said. Founded in 1959 by Bartlett Cocke, Jr. in San Antonio, Bartlett Cocke General Contractors specializes in the construction of corporate facilities, including support operations and administration, mission critical computer operations/data services, headquarters, research and development, manufacturing, distribution and call centers. The Houston office opened in 2001. –ab Key Professional Team: Superintendent: Roy Neighbors Assistant Superintendent: Bjorn Harbig Lead Estimator: Greg Liggin
A view of the stairs from the lobby.
Senior project manager, Jose Garcia, AIA, has joined the Stantec Houston office. Garcia brings 27 years of experience in architectural design. As a senior project manager, he will use his prior design and construction management experience, along with his skills in managing client relationships, to lead education projects in Stantec’s Gulf region. Garcia earned his Bachelor of Architecture at the University of Texas at Austin.
Submissions
continued from Page 1 — Clearing to concrete
Round-Up
L-R: Outside salesman Adam Burnett and counter salesman Michael Callis help folks find electrical supplies at the Elliott Electric Supply Stafford location. –ab
Wood Partners hired Bart Barrett, former managing director at Alliance Residential Co., as director of the company’s Houston office. Barrett will oversee the development, design and financing of construction. Barrett earned both a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration and a B.A. degree from Southern Methodist University.
Raj Karimi has joined Structura as project manager, bringing more than 14 years of experience to the Houston office. Karimi has experience providing real-time assistance in estimatRaj Karimi ing, procurement, scheduling and project management. Structura has also added Troy Hoke and Dennis Cox as superintendents. Hoke has more than 25 years of experience and Cox has more than 28 years of experience.
Troy Hoke
Dennis Cox
NCI Building Systems Inc. (NCI) has named Don Riley president, Group Business Segments. In this newly created position, Riley will join the senior leadership team reporting to Norman Chambers, chairman, president and CEO of NCI. He will be responsible for driving profitable growth for NCI’s three business segments, Metal Coil Coating, Metal Components and Engineered Building Systems. Riley brings more than 20 years of experience and is a graduate of the University of Tennessee with a B.S. degree with honors in Mechanical Engineering.
This is a monthly section for brief company announcements of new or recently promoted personnel, free of charge, as space allows. –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Email (w/digital photo, if available) by the 15th of any month, for the next month’s issue (published 1st of each month). Email info to appropriate city issue, with “Round-Up” in the subject line: –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– San Antonio: saeditor@constructionnews.net Austin: austineditor@constructionnews.net Dallas/Ft. Worth: dfweditor@constructionnews.net Houston: houstoneditor@constructionnews.net South Texas: STeditor@constructionnews.net
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Page 14
Houston Construction News • Feb 2015
Survey says
S
urveyors from around the state attended the recent Texas Society of Professional Surveyors (TSPS) 63rd annual Convention & Tech Expo at the Westin Galleria in Houston. The event gave attendees an opportunity to grow professionally while networking with fellow land surveyors. –ab
Imaginit Technologies
Martin Instrument
Easy Drive McKim & Creed Inc.
Western Data Systems
A karate class! Robert Garrett, R.M.G. Electrical Inc. I’d love to study history! I always like to visit historical markers when I am traveling. Dax Villanueva, Class Corner Co. I love to draw in my free time, so I’d have to say an art class. Larry Melancon, Stoneco Inc. An engineering or a green building class. Engineering is a subject I have always been interested in. Thomas Scott, Jaster Quintanilla I’d enjoy taking any kind of martial arts class. Michael Glass, Falcon Flooring I’d take a welding class to learn more about the latest technologies in welding. James Kubena Odom’s Welding & Fabrication I’d take an HVAC continuing education class. I love this trade! Jason Rodriguez, Cool Parts A scuba diving class. I’d love to go scuba
Surveying and Mapping LLC
G4 Spatial Technologies
If you took a class, what would it be? I’d take a class to improve my guitar playing skills. Ryan Schoultz, Johnson Supply
Total CAD Systems Inc.
diving if I got the chance. Robert Salinas, Stamped Artistry I am into woodworking these days so I’d love to take a class. Anthony Wendel, Wendel’s Tool Rental I would enjoy taking part in a Bible study to learn more about the Bible. Bill Briggs, Johnson Roofing and General Contracting Inc.
I would love to take a pottery class and make lots of pottery for my friends and family. Anthony Rios, Joe Aguirre Tile Inc. History and anthropology. I love reading books about both subjects. Sally Victor, Raba Kistner Environmental Inc.
A woodworking class sounds fun to me. Ronny Smith, Cabinets and More I’d love to take a birding class. I have been bird watching for more than 25 years. Helen Hodges, SSCI Environmental Construction and Consulting Services
Taking a sculpture class would be great! Sandra Bauder, Bailey Architects Construction News ON LOCATION
Go team go
I’d have to say a structural engineering class. It is fascinating to me! Asher Kazmann, Locke Solutions I think it would be interesting to take a music class and learn how to play an instrument. Sign me up! Franklin Alvarez, Wonderful Weather A/C and Heating I’d want to take a cooking class. I love to cook when I am not working on residential and commercial mosaic projects. Michele Patrick, Mosaics by Michele A building design class. Keith Messick, Merge Architects
The LJA Engineering Inc. Houston office staff wore their college gear to work and had a pizza party for College Colors Day in mid-January. –ab
I’d take a class to learn about all the new air conditioning brands on the market. Sean Sirafi, Southwest A/C Supply
Submitted to Construction News
Punctual plumber
Jose Ramirez, J.R. Plumbing, says it is important to him to arrive early to residential and commercial plumbing jobs. –ab
Houston Construction News • Feb 2015
Submitted to Construction News
Submitted to Construction News
Tough Monday
Saying thanks
Fluke, the shop cat at Urbish Electric LLC, decided to take a nap on a box while everyone else worked. –ab
35 . . . and counting
Steven W. Mechler
B
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alfour Beatty Construction is celebrating 35 years of history in Houston in 2015. Steven W. Mechler, president, Houston division, says the company marks this milestone at a time of strong momentum in the market. Carlos Garza is the operations director; Dawn Landry, LEED AP BD+C, is the vice president of business acquisition; Allen Lindsey is the senior vice president, special projects; Jon Moreau, LEED AP, is vice president operations and John Waltz, LEED AP, is the senior vice president, business unit leader, large projects. “In 1979, Balfour Beatty’s legacy in Houston began as a small interior construction company,” Mechler said. “Over the next 35 years, our presence expanded, ultimately growing to become an important part of Balfour Beatty’s global construction business leading signature projects across the Bayou City.” While honoring its roots in successful small, medium and large interiors build-out projects, Balfour Beatty’s Houston division has grown over the years to perform commercial ground-up, education, healthcare, multifamily, aviation, energy and technical facility projects. “Balfour Beatty and our legacy companies have always been deeply embedded in Houston, and we are humbled by the support of our community, clients and trade partners that have helped us reach this major milestone,” he said. “We would not have been able to realize such significant success without their continued support. We are looking forward to an even more exciting future.” Events Balfour Beatty hosts during the year include an annual Night of Comedy at Houston’s Improv Comedy Showcase and Restaurant, as well as a Trade Partner Barbecue Cook-off at the Houston location. –ab
Ramtech Building Systems recently held an employee appreciation barbecue lunch. Spring Creek Barbecue catered the event. –ab
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Houston Construction News • Feb 2015