Houston Construction News April 2015

Covering the Industry’s News

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Volume 13

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Number 4

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APRIL 2015

Making a difference

Strong as stone

Matt Diffendal and his family at a Shooting for a Cure event

L-R: Jacqueline and Rawi Tabbah in Las Vegas

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resident Matt Diffendal, Diffco, has worked in the construction industry since he was 16.

“In the early days, when I first started my company, I had a crew and we began working on a small project,” Diffendal said. “Things have progressed well for us since that time.”

Diffendal says the company has experienced growth in the commercial, industrial and railroad industries over the past few years.

According to Diffendal, he began the company in Cypress, TX and moved to the Tomball, TX area in 2012. Diffco now has an office and a shop on a few acres.

“My favorite part about working in

the construction industry is working with the people,” he said. “It is always good when the owners are happy and they call you back for more business.

“We have never done just one project for a customer, whether it be an owner or a general contractor. Repeat business is our number one business.”

A few commercial jobs the company has completed include a tanker lot renovation for Texas Petroleum Co., jobs at Champion Chemical and Conoco Phillips, and a Kinder Morgan facility in Galena Park.

“Our safety record has been very good," he said. "No task, schedule or situation is worth an accident or injury. We

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ather and daughter team Rawi and Jacqueline Tabbah, International Stoneworks Inc., recently traveled to Las Vegas for the International Surface event.

They gave an educational presentation called, “Is Dad Always Right? A Father/Daughter Team Share their Insights on Successfully Managing a Family Business.”

In addition, Jacqueline moderated a “Women In Stone Panel Discussion” session and she was a stone and tile restoration and maintenance panel member.

President Rawi Tabbah established International Stoneworks in Houston in 1982.

“In the early days, we were mostly in

continued on Page 13

the equipment business related to the stone industry,” Tabbah said. “Within five years, we became a natural stone restoration and maintenance business.”

Today the company sells products nationally and internationally.

“While typically we perform stone and tile restoration in residences and major buildings in Texas, we have traveled as far as California, Florida and New Jersey,” he said.

Tabbah says he is grateful his daughter helps him operate the business these days.

“Jacqueline joined International Stoneworks in Oct. 2009,” he said. “She handles the sales and marketing and she continued on Page 13

Delivered on time

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he Retail Center at Pearland Parkway is the first major retail center for the residents in Pearland. The retail development includes 165,000sf of anchor and junior-anchor, inline and pad site space.

PepperLawson Construction provided the general contracting services.

Scott Thetford, Stream Realty Partners, is the owner.

“This was our first time to work with Stream Realty Partners and architect CDA Architects,” said Project Manager Mitch Davis, PepperLawson Construction. “Everyone was cooperative and interested in getting the project completed on time.”

According to Davis, Stream Realty Partners wanted to give the nearby residents of Pearland convenient access to the shops, restaurants and services expected by a growing city. Pearland was

recently ranked as the 15th fastest growing city in the country.

“Unusual wet conditions were a challenge the construction team met and overcame to keep the project moving and delivered on time,” Davis said. “Major tenants were able to open for the 2014 holiday season.”

Primary interior construction materials used were drywall, ceramic tile, VCT and wood slat walls and exterior construction materials included plaster, stone and glass.

The Retail Center at Pearland Parkway now has a line-up of tenants, including T.J. Maxx, Ross Dress for Less, Petco, Palais Royal, Five Below, Rack Room, Rue 21, Salons by JC, Payless, America’s Best Contacts & Eyewear, MOD Pizza, Mattress Firm, Massage Envy, European Wax Center, Paris Nails & Spa, Sprint and Menchies Yogurt.

Aerial view of The Retail Center at Pearland Parkway

continued on Page 13

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Houston Construction News • Apr 2015

Managing risks

Tim Aguilar

Kathy Havey

BTX Risk Services has expanded into the Houston market. The new Houston office is located at 2500 City West Blvd.

Suite 300.

“This strategic move into the Houston market further expands our Texas presence as we continue to expand our insurance, employee benefits, bonding, risk management services and wealth management capabilities,” said IBTX President Stephen Smith. “Being an independent agency, our new Houston office will allow us to continue delivering innovative strategies and relationships to manage risk and improve profitability for our clients and prospects in Houston.”

Tim Aguilar, risk advisor, and Kathy Havey, account executive, are the first two employees in the Houston office.

Aguilar will assist leadership to engage clients and prospects. He has more

than 30 years of experience in the insurance industry.

“I look forward to establishing IBTX in this area, gaining new clients across the Houston metro area, the state of the Texas and nationwide,” Aguilar said.

Havey has more than 30 years experience in her industry. She will work with business owners to identify their insurance needs and offer options to manage risk and help to grow a book of business from the ground floor in Houston. She will work closely with the resources in place in the San Antonio and Dallas offices.

“My passion is to help fill the role of risk manager for my clients and provide constant communication between clients and carriers,” Havey said.

IBTX provides risk management services across the state of Texas. –ab

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Submitted to Construction News

Three for the team

L-R: Glad it is finally springtime, Junior, Chuck and Aaron assist air conditioning contractor customers at the Century A/C Supply Humble store. –ab

Submitted to Construction News

Making friends

Owner and manager Josh Clements rings up a customer at the counter at Texas Paint Supply in Houston. –ab

Better together

L-R: (seated) Frank Dillard, FJD&A; Nannette Dillard, DSSI and (standing) Robert Hickman, LJA vice president; Calvin Ladner, LJA president and Jeff Collins, LJA executive vice president

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JA Engineering Inc. (LJA) has acquired Frank J. Dillard & Associates Inc. (FJD&A) and its partner firm Design Support Solutions Inc. (DSSI).

Calvin Ladner, LJA president, says the addition of FJD&A and DSSI adds to LJA’s service offerings in the areas of specialization in the planning, design and construction phase supervision of electrical, instrumentation and control (EIC) related projects.

Frank J. Dillard, PE, will lead the electrical department of the midstream infrastructure division headed by Robert C. Hickman, vice president.

“FJD&A brings almost four decades of specialized electrical expertise,” Ladner said. “Their inclusion in the LJA family company greatly strengthens our ability to provide EIC-related support to projects across disciplines.”

FJD&A has been involved in the de-

sign and successful construction implementation of EIC systems for water and wastewater related facilities, large industrial EIC projects, transportation related fueling systems, lighting projects related to illumination of water, wastewater, and industrial processes, design, integration, installation and field testing of both natural gas and diesel engine generators and the design of closed circuit television (CCTV) and associated security/access systems.

“We are excited about this opportunity to fully integrate electrical design services into the plate of offerings available to our midstream clients,” Hickman added.

LJA is a full-service consulting engineering firm serving the public and private sectors in Texas. The firm has offices in Houston, Spring, Katy, The Woodlands, Galveston, Deer Park, Beaumont, Austin, Cedar Park and San Antonio. –ab

Houston Construction News • Apr 2015

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Reaching the Summit

Making an impact

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reating a new position within the company, Summit Electric Supply announced that Paul Jeffries has joined the company and stepped into the new role of president and COO. Before accepting the position with Summit, Jeffries was a group vice president and general manager for a publicly traded international distributor.

Summit, a privately held independent electrical distributor is headquartered in Albuquerque, NM, but Jeffries will be based in the Houston office where the EP&C Division is located. He will report to the chairman and CEO, Victor Jury Jr.

“Paul’s perspective and skills will significantly contribute to Summit’s next phase of growth,” states Jury. “Adding Paul to the Summit team reflects our commitment to planning for Summit’s future success as part of a broadly implemented, companywide succession planning process.”

In Jeffries’ new position, he will oversee sales, operations, corporate credit, marketing and talent management. He will be involved with several divisions, including the international sales and marine divisions, engineering, procurement, construction and the strategic accounts team.

“Summit is well-respected in every market it serves and across the industry,” comments Jeffries. “As a private company, it operates strategically and has a progressive, forward-thinking vision that gives it the ability to drive complete solutions. I knew Summit and the values the company represents would be a natural fit for me. I’m eager to use my experience and business knowledge to deliver valueadded solutions to our customers and

Paul Jeffries, president and COO

further the company’s growth.”

With nearly 25 years of experience running various businesses ranging in size from $10 million to $800 million in annual sales, Jeffries’ background is concentrated in sales, marketing, operations and technologies. Last year, Summit had $421 million in sales.

For nine years, he was owner and president of his own electrical supply company. He earned his bachelor’s degree in engineering sciences from the United States Air Force Academy and his MBA from the Air Force Institute of Technology.

Founded in 1977, Summit covers 27 markets across the United States and in Dubai, U.A.E. The company has the most locations in Texas, including Abilene, Austin, Beaumont, Bryan/College Station, Clute, Corpus Christi, Dallas, El Paso, Fort Worth, Kenedy, La Porte, Midland, Pearsall, Pecos, San Antonio, Victoria, Waco, and of course, Houston. –mh

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Engineers and guests at the Engineer of the Year Gala

ouston Engineers Week, Feb. 22-28, recognized the profession of engineering as a social and economic influence vital to the local community.

The kickoff event was the Run of Pi at the University of Houston. Other events included the Young Engineers Recognition Dinner Feb. 23, Outstanding Engineering Student Luncheon Feb. 24 and the Greater Houston Chapter Auxiliary Luncheon Feb. 25.

The Engineer of the Year Gala took place at the Hilton – Houston Westchase Feb. 27.

This year’s honoree, Michael Talbott, director of the Harris County Flood Control District, was named the 2015 En- 2015 Engineer of the Year: Michael Talbott, director of the Harris County Flood Control District (left) gineer of the Year.

Talbott has been with the district for wide flood damage reduction plans, im33 years. Under his direction, the district plement those plans and maintain the carries out its mission to devise county- infrastructure. –ab

All the right tools

Did you know ?

85.7% of our readers are decision makers James Blummer, Nationwide Tools & Supplies, helps where he is needed on a daily basis, especially with sales. He also does information technology (IT) work for the company. –ab

Houston

CONSTRUCTION NEWS

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The Houston Construction News (ISSN 15477630) is published monthly by Construction News LTD., dba Houston Construction News, and distributed by mail to constructionrelated 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.

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Publisher reserves the right to reject any advertisement at any time.

©2015 Construction News, Ltd.

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Houston Construction News • Apr 2015

Taxable fringe benefits and self-employed health insurance

Take steps to protect your family business

Lynda Land Ridout, Barret & Co. PC San Antonio, TX

Jesse Abercrombie Edward Jones Dallas, TX

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very day, in the ordinary course of business, employers provide benefits to their employees. Some are taxable; others are not. For instance, did you know gift cards and prepaid credit cards are taxable benefits regardless of the amount on the card? That personal use of a company vehicle is taxable? What about group term life insurance in excess of $50,000? And let’s not forget health insurance. The IRS addresses these and other fringe benefits in Publication 15B, Employer’s Tax Guide to Fringe Benefits.

Of the many benefits discussed in Pub 15-B, health insurance is the most often misreported and misunderstood.

This is due, in part, because benefits are treated differently depending on whether the recipient is an employee or an owner/shareholder, and the entity is an S corporation or partnership. This article focuses primarily on health insurance for shareholders of S Corporations who own greater than 2% of their corporation’s stock.

Health insurance premiums paid on behalf of a 2% shareholder through a company group health plan are taxable fringe benefits to the shareholder. The company cannot deduct premiums paid on behalf of the 2% shareholder, his spouse or dependents; nor can the 2% shareholder participate in a cafeteria plan, treating the premiums as pre-tax health insurance. Instead, the company must include the cost of health insurance in the shareholder’s wages, subject to income tax withholding; exempt from social security, Medicare and FUTA taxes.

Including these benefits in the 2% shareholder’s wages allows him to deduct the cost as an adjustment to gross income on Form 1040.

For S corporations with one shareholder who is also the sole employee, the policy can be in the name of the company or the shareholder. If the policy is in the name of the company and it pays the premiums, it must include them in Box 1 of the shareholder’s W-2. If the 2% shareholder owns the policy and pays the premiums personally, he can only deduct the premiums as self-employed health insurance if the company reimburses him and includes the premiums on his W-2.

The company’s plan will not be a qualified health plan if the premiums are not paid or reimbursed by the company and included on the shareholder’s Form W2.

Prior to the Affordable Care Act, small employers (less than 50 full-time equivalent employees) were allowed to reimburse their employees and share-

holders for health insurance via the “employee payment plan,” or EPP, rather than go to the expense of setting up and paying for a group health plan. Under an EPP, the employee would purchase an individual policy, submit proof of payment and be reimbursed by the employer for the premiums. The reimbursement was treated as pre-tax health insurance, exempt from payroll taxes.

Today, with federal and state exchanges in place, EPPs are no longer permitted. In fact, continuing this practice will result in penalties of $100 per day per employee. That’s $36,500 per year, per employee. These penalties are punitive in nature and aimed at employers who directly pay or reimburse individual health insurance premiums. Because guidance on this penalty was not issued until late in 2014, the IRS recently issued Notice 201517. This notice provides retroactive relief from penalties for small employers who have or will have reimbursed employee paid premiums between Jan.1, 2014 and June 30, 2015. Relief is also available for S corporations that reimburse or directly pay individual health insurance premiums on behalf of their 2% shareholders between Jan. 1, 2014 and Dec. 31, 2015. It appears the self-employed health deduction for 2% shareholders will no longer be available after Dec. 31, 2015, unless the premiums are paid through a companysponsored group health plan.

The health insurance debate will continue for many years. It is imperative that business owners and employees understand the rules to maximize their benefits and minimize potential penalties. If you have questions about self-employed health insurance or other fringe benefits, contact your CPA. We are here to help you.

Lynda Land is the Manager of the Small Business Services department of Ridout, Barrett & Co., P.C. and a member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants and Texas Society of CPA’s.

Submitted to Construction News

Know when to hold em’

The Associated Builders and Contractors Houston Chapter (ABC) held a Texas Hold’em Tournament at Marek Brothers Systems in late February. Card carrying colleagues had a great night of fast play and friendly competition. –ab

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here’s nothing more important in the world to you than your family. However, your family-owned business probably helps support your family. So, when it comes to protecting both your family and your business, you need to carefully consider your moves.

would maintain control over the day-today operation of your business, but, over time, you could gift or sell limited partnership shares to your family members.

And eventually, you would also relinquish control of the business to whoever is going to run it.

As you know, you face plenty of challenges to keep your business running smoothly — but it can be even more difficult to pass the family business on to your children or other relatives. In fact, according to the Small Business Administration, only 33% of family owned businesses survive the transition from first generation ownership to the next generation.

Another component of your succession plan might be a “buy-sell” agreement, which allows you to name the buyer for your business — such as one of your children — and establish methods to determine the sale price. Your child could then purchase a life insurance policy on your life and eventually use the proceeds to buy the business, according to the terms established in the buy-sell agreement.

Why is it so hard to keep a family business intact? Sometimes, it’s because no one in the family is interested in running the business — but family businesses frequently disintegrate because of the lack of a succession plan.

We’ve just skimmed the surface of techniques that might be used alone or in combination to carry out your business succession. The transfer can be complex, so you will certainly need to consult with your legal and financial professionals. It’s important that you fully understand the business and tax implications of any succession plan, as well as the financial effects of a plan on all your family members.

To create a succession plan, your first step — and possibly the most important one — is to collect the thoughts and preferences of family members on their future involvement with your business.

It’s essential that you know who wants to really do the day-to-day work and who is capable. During these conversations, you’ll also want to discuss other key business-succession issues, such as the retirement goals and cash flow needs of retiring family owners and the personal and financial goals of the next generation of management.

In developing a plan for the future of your business, you will need to determine who will control and manage the business, and who will eventually own it.

These decisions will depend on a variety of factors, such as the time horizon, goals and financial needs of the family members involved.

Your succession plan could be based on a family limited partnership. Under this arrangement, you, as general partner,

In any case, once you’ve created your succession plan, you’ll need to work with your legal advisor to put it in writing and communicate it clearly to all family members. Surprises are welcome in many parts of life — but not when it comes to transferring a family business.

You want to leave your family a legacy. And if that legacy is the family business, do whatever it takes to pass it on in a manner that benefits everyone involved. This will take time and planning — but it can be well worth the effort.

Jesse Abercrombie, financial advisor with Edward Jones Investments, works closely with business owners and executives in the construction industry. For any questions or comments, please contact him at: jesse.abercrombie@edwardjones.com or 972-239-0852.

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Fasten up

L-R: Bill Maidlow, Jason Abbott, Lisa Rodriguez and Josh Velasquez are ready to assist customers at United Tool & Fastener. The construction supply company provides supplies, tools and equipment. –ab

Houston Construction News • Apr 2015

Page 5

A passion for building Legislation–we are under way Sewell C. “Spike” Cutler, Principal Cutler-Smith PC Dallas, TX

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he 2015 legislative session (the “84th Legislature”) has already produced a number of filed bills that directly affect the construction industry. Here are some highlights (bill status is as of the date of writing): Consolidated Insurance Programs

HB 1206, Representative Dan Huberty (R-Humble), provides modest regulation of “CIPs,” Owner-Controlled and Contractor-Controlled Insurance Programs, requires disclosure of the existence, terms and required participation in Controlled Insurance Programs before bid time, and allows regulation by the Texas Department of Insurance. Referred to the House Insurance Committee.

Notice of Lender Default HB 1208, Representative Cecil Bell (R-Magnolia), Representative Jeff Leach (R-Plano) and Representative Ron Simmons (R-Louisville), requires notice of Owner default on construction loans to contractors, allowing suspension of performance upon default. Referred to House Business & Industry Committee.

Retainage Trust Fund HB 1966, Representative Jim Keffer (R-Eastland), amends Texas Construction Trust Fund law, requiring retainage be escrowed for the life of a project to protect retainage for contractors and subcontractors. Alternatively, a bond could serve as security. Referred to House Business & Industry Committee.

Worker Misclassification

This is a hot issue - when employers do not classify workers properly as employees or independent contractors, many contend that they gain an unfair competitive advantage in bidding for jobs. Current penalties for not classifying properly are limited to payment of back taxes owed, plus nominal interest and a tiny penalty – not enough to deter employers from not classifying properly. HB 434, Representative Senfronia Thompson (D-Houston), provides greater penalties for misclassification as a deterrent.

Referred to House Business and Industry Committee.

Mandatory Workers’ Compensation Insurance HB 689, Representative Armando Walle (D-Houston) and Representative Terry Canales (D - Edinburg), referred to the House Business & Industry Committee, and Senate companion, SB 155 by Sen. Jose Rodriguez (D-El Paso), referred to Senate Business and Commerce Committee. These bills mandate workers’ compensation coverage be provided by all building and construction contractors.

Mandatory e-Verify Participation

Companion bills require contractors or subcontractors on state contracts to use the federally-administered “E-verify” program to verify employee information during the term of the contract with the agency. HB 889, Rep. Tony Dale (R-Cedar Park), referred to House State Affairs Committee. Companion Bill SB 401, Sen. Charles Schwertner (R-Georgetown), referred to Senate Business and Commerce Committee.

Reduced Construction-Defect Liability Rep. Paul Workman’s (R-Austin) HB1784 reduces contractor liability for construction defects ten percent for each year after project completion. This

Give us a call, or email your editor if you would like your company and/or personnel to be in an upcoming issue.

Abby BeMent houstoneditor @constructionnews.net 713-599-1774 San Antonio home office 210-308-5800

should reduce claims of “construction defects” asserted immediately before expiration of the 10-year Statute of Repose.

Referred to House Judiciary & Civil Jurisprudence Committee.

Union Contracts Senate Bill 303, Senator Kelly Hancock (R-Tarrant County), outlaws requiring or precluding collective bargaining (union) contracts as conditions of contracting on publicly-funded higher-education institutions. Referred to Senate Business & Commerce Committee.

Made in the Good Ol’ USA HB1007, Rep. Yvonne Davis (D-Duncanville), provides that iron, steel and manufactured products to be used in state-fund the construction projects must be manufactured in the United States, unless they are not reasonably available or increase the cost of the project by more than 15%. This bill has been referred to the House Economic & Small Business Development Committee.

Sovereign Immunity Modification Representative Paul Workman’s HB1124 limits sovereign immunity in contract claims on state projects. This bill removes the $250,000 floor for state claims, improves claims for increased costs and simplifies attorneys’ fee recovery. Referred to the House Judiciary & Civil Jurisprudence Committee for Hearing.

Contractor Licensing The last bill I will mention is a real doozy – Rep. Eddie Rodriguez (D-Travis County) has filed HB3148, a modest little proposal requiring that all construction contractors be licensed, under the control of the Texas Department of Licensing & Regulation, and for TDLR to develop rules for the enforcement and penalties for their violation. This bill, just filed, should provide plenty of controversy in the regulation-averse Texas political arena.

There is much to be watched in this year’s legislative session and, as always, most of the action will come in the last “run to the gavel.” Watch these pages!

Cutler-Smith PC focuses on representation of construction trade contractors and the commercial construction industry. For more information on the firm and its industry advocacy, see the web site at www.TexasConstructionLaw.com, or call 214-219-0800.

ACE Mentor Houston students build storage benches together.

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onstruction, architecture and engineering professionals from the greater Houston area gathered at the Building Blocks Breakfast event in late February. ACE Mentor Houston held the event.

More than 85 guests, including mentors, family, friends and educators attended the annual breakfast event.

“The intent of breakfast is to celebrate the mentors who are giving back to the students in our city,” said Angela Cotie, ACE Mentor Houston chairman. “We have more than 100 mentors serving more than 300 students, and there are never enough ways to celebrate their hard work, their dedication and passion for what we do.”

Highlighted at the event was a young man that was the very first ACE Mentor Houston Scholarship recipient, Pedro Gonzalez.

After receiving his scholarship from ACE Mentor Houston and graduating high school, he went on to the University of Houston to pursue a degree in engineering.

Gonzalez celebrated his graduation in December, and is now working for LJA Engineering Inc. The entire room erupted in applause that he continued to pursue his passion and completed school.

ACE Mentor Houston gave out awards in the categories of Mentor of the Year, Rookie Mentor of the Year and the Carrie Arnold-Gutierrez Leadership

award.

In conjunction with the awards, there was panel discussion concerning the impact “Generation Y” is having on the architecture, construction and engineering industries.

Speakers included Dilip Choudhuri, CEO, Walter P Moore; Gerald Gehm, managing director, Gensler and James Springer, southwestern region district manager, Gilbane Building Co. A selection of participating companies were Bechtel Corp., Walter P Moore, Gensler, Gilbane Building Co., Pinnacle Structural Engineers, Turner Construction, HOK, Kirksey, Constello, Inc.; Skanska, Benchmark Houston, HOAR Construction, All Phase, American Marble Mosaic, Arch-Con, FSG, HILTI, Kenmor Electric, Lakey Electric Inc., Treadwell Electric, Ward, Getz & Associates, LLP, Terracon, I.A. Naman + Associates Inc., Shah Smith, Triangle and Marek Bros. –ab

Congrats to the winners!

Rookie Mentor of the Year: Tarek Ayoubi, Walter P Moore Associates Inc. Mentor of the Year: Joseph Greco – Woodhouse Day Spa Carrie Arnold-Gutierrez Leadership Award: Carrie Arnold-Gutierrez, formally of the Bechtel Corporation

Page 6

Houston Construction News • Apr 2015

Javier Zavala Owner Universal Building Materials LLC

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fter working for a lumber company for 30 years, Javier Zavala opened Universal Building Materials LLC in Houston. The company has operated since 2012.

“The early days were tough,” Zavala said. “I was the only employee in the beginning and I did deliveries in my brothers 16-ft. trailer with only one warehouse available for the lumber.”

Within a month, Zavala hired his first employee and, six months later, he hired his first sales representative and three warehouse employees.

Today there are four sales representatives, 11 warehouse employees, warehouses for the lumber and multiple trailers to transport the materials.

Materials Building Materials LLC provides construction materials, building materials, long framing lumber and hardware.

Where were you born, Javier?

I was born in Mexico and moved to the United States when I was 14. At first, I couldn’t get a job because I was so young.

I went to East Texas in 1979 to work at a lumber company. Within six months, I had my own car and I didn’t even know how to drive. I worked hard and saved my money.

I have been very blessed living in this country. I have everything I need. I have

the opportunity to succeed. I love the United States of America.

When did you move to Houston?

I moved to Houston in 1981. I worked for a Houston area lumber company and the owner was my mentor in the ‘80s.

Ronald Reagan was the president at the time.

The owner taught me everything I know today about the lumber business. I had so much respect for him. He was a very generous man and he always gave back to the community when he could.

I saw him help people all the time, even strangers. I am grateful he took me under his wing.

It sounds like the owner really helped you.

I started out at the bottom at the lumber company. I was the second Spanish man to work at the entire company out of 50 employees.

One of my first jobs was picking up trash around the building. Then, when the owner knew I could work, I jumped on the forklift and began driving the trucks.

Next, I started helping customers and worked in shipping and receiving. I always tried to move myself to the position where I knew I could do the work.

The owner observed what I could do and continued to give me opportunities to succeed. After he saw me interact with customers, I soon became his right hand man.

He treated me like I was his own kid.

I grew up with his kids.

About 15 years later, the owner passed away and I had to decide what do next.

I made my decision to go out on my own and established Universal Building Materials. It was one of the best decisions I ever made. I took a leap. I am so happy my family encouraged me during that time.

In your opinion, what does it take to be successful in the construction industry?

I believe to be successful in the construction industry, you need to be dedicated and see the positive side in every situation. You have to work hard and work a lot of hours.

Javier Zavala is grateful for his staff, customers and suppliers.

Why do you enjoy what you do today?

I grew up in the building supply business. I love it. I love the people. I like getting jobs and keeping people busy.

Are you married?

Yes, I met my met wife in Humble in the early ‘80s. She has operated our cleaning company for 20 years. The company provides post construction cleaning services.

My wife has stood by me through it all. During the time I left the other company, we kept the cleaning company going to make it through the challenging times.

Do you have children?

Yes, I have a son Jhanz and Bertha Dina is my daughter. My son is in college and he works with me on Saturdays.

Sometimes, if one of our customers needs materials, we will go to the office on Sundays.

Bertha Dina used to work for the cleaning company and at a computer company.

I don’t want to push my kids to work with me. I am okay with whatever they decide to do as long as they are both happy. They both work hard and they are intelligent.

What do you like to do when you aren’t at work?

I am Houston Texans and Rockets fan. Every once in a while I will go see a game.

During the year, employees and I participate in the St. Leo the Great Catholic Church Bazaar. We set up a booth at the event and give out caps, coffee mugs, pens, lunch bags and T-shirts.

Every once in a while, I like to visit the Saltgrass Steakhouse to enjoy a T-bone steak with my family.

Javier Zavala (right) and the Universal Building Supply team

What are the keys to success in your business?

Dedication. If you find something you really like to do, you have to put a lot of hours into it.

It is important to have a really good team, too.

Do you enjoy traveling?

I love to travel whenever I get the chance. My wife and I and her family members had a wonderful time in Malaysia in November.

It was a great trip. My wife and I can’t wait to go back again.

One of the highlights during the trip was visiting the skyscrapers called Petro-

nas Twin Towers. The inside of the building was similar to the Houston Galleria. I thought the landmarks in Malaysia were so interesting.

Next, we traveled to Thailand and spent time on the beach. The water was so beautiful. I got on the shore and jumped in the water like a kid.

When we left Houston in November it was cold and windy so it was nice to enjoy the warm, calm weather in Thailand.

It was about 70 to 80 degrees every day on our trip.

My wife and I plan to travel more often in the future, at a minimum once a year.

It is nice to get away and recharge so we can go back to work with a refreshed mind.

Where is a place you and your wife would like to visit one day?

I know my wife wants to visit Paris and see the Eiffel Tower one day. It is my goal to take her there soon.

What is the best part about living and working in Houston?

Everything you need, you can find in Houston. It seems just like in any country, there are good people and bad people. I am blessed I always seem to run into the good people.

I think it helps to know how to take care of the situation and how to talk to people.

What are your plans for the company in the future?

Right now, I want to keep the company growing at a steady pace. We have purchased land where I plan to build a warehouse.

My dream is to have a good sized place close to the freeway. It would be nice if folks could see our building from the freeway.

We are doing fine now because people visit our website and find us. Sales have gone up like crazy this year. We get customers from all over the Houston area.

I don’t want the company to get too big though. It would be nice to have 30 or 40 employees working with me.

I am grateful for all my staff, customers and suppliers that believed in me and give Universal Building Materials the opportunity to expand in the lumber industry. –ab

Houston Construction News • Apr 2015

Page 7

of fish that feed on them. If you’re opposed to using live bait, a soft plastic tied 18-inch behind a mauler can be just as effective. Gambler lures makes a 4-inch flap-n-shad that has become one of my favorite choices when choosing this method. Colors can vary depending on water clarity, but pumpkinseed/chartreuse and plum/ chartreuse can always be relied on.

Heart-stopping action on topwaters

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, Simms Products, Pure Fishing, Mirr-O-Lure, ForEverlast Hunting and Fishing Products and Columbia Sportswear.

Hill Ojeda caught this 28-inch redfish that stretched the boga grip over the 8-lb mark along the King Ranch Shoreline last week fishing with Steve Schultz Outdoors.

S

visual sight when a fish attacks it. This type of fishing is by far the most exciting for me because of the heart stopping explosion that occurs when a fish attacks your plug. When a fish attacks your lure it can be at the end of your cast or five feet from your rod tip, either way it will surprise you even if you think you’re expecting it. For me every hit is as exciting as the first.

pring fishing is one of this writer’s most exciting time of the year to be on the water for several reasons. The first reason is we associate spring with warming conditions and the end of cold winter mornings. The second reason is water temperatures are reaching that magical point that most look forward to throw top water lures. Top water lures or surface plugs are by far my favorite types of lure to throw. They’re the only artificial lure that provides a

With the arrival of warmer conditions to the Laguna Madre and surround-

ing bay it means the arrival of live shrimp at local marinas. I have already seen those white flags flying periodically at several of the marinas along the JFK Causeway. Live shrimp are by far the most popular of live baits along the Gulf coast. Using these little crustaceans under an Alameda Rattling cork can produce some constant action when drifting over grass beds with scattered potholes. As shrimp migrate through the bay systems, so do the many species

In our product section this month, we are going to put our equipment through some pretty rough conditions. Windy days are not uncommon during spring months and you can be sure there will be some days that you wished you would have stayed home.

One piece of equipment that I will not have to worry about in the platform of my business is my boat. My 25-ft Majek Xtreme is by far the most reliable part of my operation and my office day after day. The folks at Majek boats have been around these waters for decades and know what it takes to build a boat to get you home safe. If you’re looking for a boat that will out perform the competition day in and day out, look no further than Majek Boats. The folks at Premier Yamaha have the full line of Majek’s to look at and test ride.

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. Still have several days open in April although summer is filling up quick. Good luck and Good Fishing.

Submitted to Construction News

First time for everything

STEVE SCHULTZ OUTDOORS, LLC BAFFIN BAY –– LAGUNA MADRE –– LAND CUT SPECKLED TROUT –– REDFISH –– FLOUNDER FISHING AND HUNTING TRIPS

Michael Kent Coopwood III (Trey), 8, went deer hunting at a family ranch with his dad Kent, Coopwood’s Air Conditioning Inc., and Papa C (Mike) this past deer season.

Trey took his first buck. –ab

DID YOU KNOW . . . .

CONSTRUCTION

™

The Industry’s Newspaper

Largest circulation construction newspaper in Texas

(361) 813-3716 (361) 334-3105 www.baffinbaycharters.com steveschultzoutdoors@gmail.com U.S. Coast Guard & Texas Parks and Wildlife Licensed

Page 8

Houston Construction News • Apr 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

Spring Break fishing results

F

or a lot of fishing guides, Spring Break is the fishing season opener.

This is when we get to spend a lot of time on the water and get a good preview of the kind of fish we will be fishing in the coming months. After being on the water almost daily for the last couple of weeks, I can say that this is going to be a real good year!

The only bad thing about Spring Break is that it comes a little too early in the year for us to have nice settled weather in place. You never know when it will feel like a frosty winter morning or a balmy summer afternoon when you go fishing this time of year. All you can do is make do with whatever weather you get and hope the fish don’t react too badly to the swings in the weather.

We did have a little rain splashing around Lake Buchanan to keep us guessing, and a temperamental north wind that teased us and slowed down the catching. But when the weather behaved we did well.

One afternoon trip pulled two new Youth Water Body Records for Lake Buchanan! Logan Wiggins visiting from Midland with friends caught an 11.2-lb., 30.25-inch striper AND a 6.8-lb.,24.75inch hybrid on the same trip.

Two days later, Barbara McPherson on a fishing trip with her husband Bryan, caught her first fish ever – a 46-lb. humpback blue cat just like a pro!

While the fishing might not have been consistent over Spring Break, I sure do like the trend I see here. We are marking lots of fish here on Lake Buchanan and larger fish too. The bait population

Wiggins’ record striper. New youth record striper

McPherson 46-pounder

is good and healthy and that’s what all the fishing revolves around.

I think the increase in the general size of the fish we are seeing is largely due to the decrease of fishing pressure our lake has seen because of the bad press we get concerning the drought. If people are cautious of running their boats on a low lake, that’s less people fishing and more fish having the time to grow to a larger size. That just makes fishing with a guide an even better proposition. We can put you on those fish and you don’t have to risk your boat.

From what I hear from people who usually fish the white bass run on the Colorado River at Bend, the white bass once again have not been able to make their run due to low wa-

www.constructionnews.net publishing the industry’s news

Fishing boats just before setting out in the morning

ter. So I guess we will have to catch up with them around the islands this year. Crappie fishing is getting good, especially on the nicer sunny days.

We are looking forward to good fishing and good times here on Lake Buchanan. We are going to be chasing the stripers and hybrids and going to focus a little more on those catfish too. I hope you can get the chance to come and join us this year! Tight lines!

Texas Style

    

Construction News JOB SIGHT

Bayou bound

Half or Full Day Fishing Trips

The Harris County Flood Control District and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers construct the Brays Bayou flood damage reduction project.

Brays Bayou will be widened between Lidstone Street and Calhoun Road near the City of Houston's MacGregor Park. –ab

All Bait, Tackle & Equipment Furnished Your catch Filleted and Bagged for You Furnish your TPWD Fishing License & Refreshments, and WE DO THE REST!

Have an outdoor photo you’d like to share?

Ken Milam Guide Service (325) 379-2051 www.striperfever.com

Send to: HoustonEditor@Constructionnews.net or call Abby at 832-595-0091

San Antonio Austin Dallas/Fort Worth Houston South Texas

Houston Construction News • Apr 2015

Page 9

Submitted to Construction News

Submitted to Construction News

Live to ride

Green space

Kirksey Architecture employees recently volunteered to plant 300 trees in Houston. –ab

First signs of spring If you take any bluebonnet photos in March or April, email your favorite one to Abby at houstoneditor@constructionnews.net.

We can include the photo in Great Outdoors section the May issue. –ab

Eric Maier, business development, Dynamic Industries International LLC, was the lucky winner of a Harley Davidson at the recent Topsides Conference in Galveston. –ab

Page 10

Houston Construction News • Apr 2015

The gist of the “List”

E

Construction News JOB SIGHT

Here comes the sun

“All-Star” TDIndustries has ranked on the list every year.

ver since Fortune Magazine created its “100 Best Companies to Work For” list in 1998, construction companies have jockeyed for a position among the various industries represented. This year, six construction companies with a Texas presence have been recognized with the distinctive honor.

Dallas-headquartered TDIndustries (TDI), which has secured “All-Star” status because it has made the list every year, was ranked #83. With offices in Austin, Fort Worth, Houston, San Antonio and Weslaco, the company, which offers facility services and mechanical construction, earned #82 last year.

For the ninth year, upscale homebuilder David Weekly Homes has been included in the Top 100, and was named #14 for the 2015 list. Last year, the company, which is headquartered in Houston and includes offices in Austin, Dallas/Fort Worth and San Antonio, held the #13 position.

Employee-owned engineering and architecture firm Burns & McDonnell has

enjoyed five years (four of them consecutive) on the Top 100 list; this year, the firm, which has offices in Austin, Dallas, Fort Worth and Houston, took the #15 spot after holding 14th place in 2014.

Design consulting firm Kimley-Horn and Associates skyrocketed to #25 from the 73rd slot this year. This is the eighth year on the list for the national firm, which also has Texas locations in Austin, Bryan/College Station, Collin County, Dallas, Fort Worth, Houston, Las Colinas, Lubbock and San Antonio.

The nation’s sixth largest contractor, PCL Construction, was named #67 after holding the #59 spot in 2014. The group of independent construction insurance companies with Dallas and Houston offices has enjoyed 10 consecutive years on the list.

Fortune Magazine welcomed a newcomer to the 2015 “100 Best Companies to Work For” list: specialized construction toolmaker Hilti. Breaking in at #89, the company has Austin, Dallas/Fort Worth and San Antonio offices. –mjm

After a brief rain, the Hassell Construction crew gets ready to begin road work on the Williams Way expansion project in Richmond. –ab

What’s your favorite local hidden gem?

Ramshur Canal near Hitchcock. I like to go fishing there at high tide.

W.C. Bill Blayney, Blayney & Associates

My husband and I love to go fishing at Galveston Bay. It is one of our favorite spots.

Bonnie Webb, One Stop Hardware

I always like playing golf at Tour 18.

John Juzswik, Building Specialties Inc.

The Ship Channel, NASA, the Medical Center, the Metro Light Rail and the Discovery Green downtown.

Perry Seeberger, Seeberger Architecture

Trinity Bay. Jimmy Norman, Hart Plumbing I enjoy taking my daughter Elliana fishing at a lake near our neighborhood in Tomball.

Tim Snow, The Nut Place

Galveston.

Garlon Evans, Mid-West Electric Co. The Toyota Center. I love attending the Houston Rockets basketball games when I get the chance.

Sam Ramirez, The Zerimar Corp.

Memorial Park.

Christopher Arnold, Northwest Roof Tile and Metal Every once in a while, I like to visit the Saltgrass Steakhouse to enjoy a T-bone steak with my family.

Javier Zavala, Universal Building Materials Lake Livingston! I go there as much as possible with my family and friends.

Stephen Guerro, Binswanger Glass Galveston.

Leonard Bedell, Mobil Steel International Inc. The Miller Outdoor Theater.

Sandra Bauder, Bailey Architects The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion in The Woodlands. I love going to concerts there on the weekend.

Ryan Schoultz, Johnson Supply Lake Conroe!

Chris Payne, Consolidated Electrical Distributors The San Jacinto River. I catch bass, catfish and anything else that gets on the hook.

Robert Bowers, Superior Fork Lift Inc. I like going fishing anywhere on the Texas Gulf Coast.

Hank Taylor, Epoxy Design Systems 19th Hole in the Woodlands. I play the rhythmic guitar during open mike night.

I love that place!

Justin Tracy, Tracy Drywall I like catching largemouth bass at Lake Sam Rayburn.

David Chapman, AC Plumbing Supply I like to go hiking through the woods or bike riding on trails in Houston.

James Green, G & H Air Conditioning & Heating

Houston Construction News • Apr 2015

Page 11

Women in Construction Good communication is key Michelle Rossomando, AIA, Principal McKinney York Architects

What is rewarding about working in your industry?

Happy clients! It is extremely rewarding to receive positive feedback from our clients. I like seeing my drawings converted into actual buildings.

Austin, TX

O

utside the studio, Rossomando is active in organizations that promote quality of life in the community. She serves on the board of YouthLaunch, a non-profit focusing on the empowerment of young people.

She also works with Urban Roots and sits on the Hyde Park Neighborhood Association’s Design Review Committee.

Rossomando earned her Master of Architecture from The University of Texas at Austin and her Bachelor of Science from Tufts University.

What does it take to be a successful in your profession?

It takes vision and the ability to turn that vision into reality. You need to have original ideas and be creative.

Perhaps one of the most underestimated skills needed to be successful is good communication - being able to listen closely and hear what is said and what is not said, relaying accurate information to all team members and expressing abstract ideas with clarity.

What is your opinion about the current state of the Austin construction industry?

Construction in Austin is back on track.

It’s not just the cranes visible in the sky over downtown, it’s the drawings on the boards in architecture offices.

It feels healthy and vibrant, and it looks like construction will continue at this pace for a few years.

What advice would you give a young woman interested in what you do today?

Attend a summer academy at an architecture school like the University of Texas in Austin to see if you like the studio.

If possible, get an internship in an architect’s office to give you exposure to the daily tasks of a young designer.

Educate yourself about how much money we make, how many hours we work, and how long and hard the road is to become a registered architect.

Try to assess what you like and don’t like about the profession through the experience of an internship before jumping in, because there are also many jobs involving architecture in other related fields that might be worth exploring and be a better fit. –ab

Women can achieve a career in construction Sandy Field, president National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC) Ft. Worth, TX

M

y career in the construction industry began as an accountant/bookkeeper for a homebuilder. I found the industry to be a very good career choice for me and I spent about 20 years in residential construction. Approximately 10 of those years I was a custom homebuilder building only custom homes. For the past 13 years I have worked for general contractors focusing mainly on commercial construction.

I have to admit that I really didn’t choose construction as a career path at first; I chose a position with an established company/homebuilder that offered stability with a competitive salary and benefits. Only after working for this firm for a few years and having the opportunity to learn construction and move up within the company, did I realize that the construction industry was a very good career choice for me. The chal-

lenge of completing a project on time, within budget, meeting the owner’s specifications and expectations, and delivering a beautiful custom home that a family could be proud of is why I chose a career in construction. Seeing a lot or home site become someone’s dream home gave me satisfaction in my career choice.

Part of my success in the industry has been due to mentors that, over the years, have shared their knowledge and encouraged and inspired me to pursue a career in a non-traditional field. My construction education was not from a college degree in construction science or management, but from on the job training and from mentors willing to invest in me.

The first homebuilder I worked for was a great mentor. He encouraged me to step outside my comfort zone in the

office and get out in the field in a nontraditional role. I became vice president, general manager for this firm, not only selling new homes, but overseeing the construction of every home I sold. There were also two female homebuilders in the area that were good mentors and encouraged me not only as a homebuilder, but as an industry leader in the community. Some of my best mentors and advisors are women I have come to know and respect who are members of the National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC). Taking advantage of the mentoring and professional development offered the members of this association, I have grown professionally and personally; gaining knowledge and skills that have helped me become a respected leader in my company, in the community, and in NAWIC. Over the past few years there definitely seems to be more opportunities for women in the construction industry than when I started. Corporations, large and small alike, are promoting diversity in the workplace, including in the trades.

The construction industry is experiencing a labor shortage at all levels. Add to that the fact that more and more baby boomers are leaving the workforce, there is an even greater shortage with addi-

tional positions needing to be filled.

Women make good candidates for positions in construction because of their attention to details. Whether it be in architecture, engineering, project management, administration, welding, electrical or some other trade or position, there are opportunities for women in construction.

My advice to women who want to pursue a construction career would be you can achieve anything you set your mind to and are willing to work for.

Women truly are more readily accepted today than when I started in the industry over 30 years ago. I would also share NAWIC’s core values: BELIEVE in yourself; PERSEVERE with the strength of your convictions; and DARE to move into new horizons.

According to some reports, discrimination is still a major barrier for women and one of the key reasons why the number of women employed in construction has not changed much in three decades.

Education and awareness can help overcome some of the barriers we face today.

One of my goals is to continue working with NAWIC, other organizations and educational institutions to create a greater awareness of career opportunities for women in the construction industry.

NEXT MONTH May 2015

Concrete Industry 2015 Schedule

Jan: Construction Forecast Feb: Construction Safety Mar: Construction Education

Support Your Industry’s Feature Issue

Call for Ad Space Reservations Apr: Women in Construction May: Concrete Industry Jun: HVAC & Plumbing

• • • •

San Antonio Austin • Houston Dallas/Fort Worth South Texas

July: Electrical Industry Aug: Service Providers Sep: Green Building Trends

(210) 308-5800

Oct: Specialty Contractors Nov: Architecture & Engineering Dec: Construction Equipment

Page 12

Houston Construction News • Apr 2015

Celebrating women in construction

Round-Up

Submissions

Round-Up

General contractor Rogers-O’Brien has hired Graham Merriman as vice president, director of Client Development.

He is responsible for developing new business with corporate, retail, mission critical, industrial, healthcare and senior living clients statewide. Merriman most recently managed a general contractor’s Houston office, oversaw senior living projects and developed a statewide mission critical/data center division. Merriman holds a Bachelor of Business Administration in Marketing from Texas Christian University.

Surveying and engineering firm Westwood Professional Services Inc. recently named Donald “Bubba” Britt, Houston office leader/basin manager, an associate.

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

T

he Houston Chapter of the National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC) had fun-filled Women in Construction (WIC) Week Mar. 1-7.

The ladies kicked off WIC Week by networking at St. Arnold’s Brewery Mar. 2.

Next, they toured the Way Engineering Ltd. fabrication facilities Mar. 3. Lunch & Learn events took place at Fluor Mar. 4

and at On Center Software Mar. 5.

NAWIC members enjoyed wine tastings and more networking at Water2Wine Houston Mar. 6.

To end the week, NAWIC members, along with Home Depot, presented “How to Install Tile” – a do-it-yourself workshop Mar. 7. Attendees had a chance to learn how to cut, set, grout and seal tile. –ab

L-R: Pamela Washington and Jennifer Black speak about safety challenges for women in construction in honor of WIC Week.

Laurie Jimenez (left) and a tile installation class participant

Submitted to Construction News

Finding a trade

NAWIC Houston and Home Depot hosted a tile installation class.

The Independent Electrical Contractors Texas Gulf Coast Chapter (IEC) met in March with construction trade students at Career & Technical High School (CTHS) Pasadena ISD about careers in the electrical trade and apprenticeship training. –ab

L-R: Sandy Field and friends at the wine tasting.

Submitted to Construction News

The boots were made for walkin’

Women Contractors Association (WCA) members practiced their painting skills at at mixer held at Pinot’s Palette Feb. 24. –ab

Houston Construction News • Apr 2015

Page 13

Submitted to Construction News

It’s cookoff time again!

Education is key

The PBK Architects Inc. staff members attended a Klein ISD Education Foundation luncheon in early March. –ab

continued from Page 1 — Strong as stone does all the social media and advertising for us. She stays very busy.

“It is nice my daughter works with me because it gives me a sense of continuity. If one day I have to retire, Jacqueline can continue here or she can do whatever she wants to do.”

When Tabbah has free time, he enjoys listening to music and traveling with his wife.

“My wife and I like to discover and explore places that we have never been before. We have seen the Pyramids in Egypt and ancient buildings in Turkey.”

Tabbah says he is always looking for ways to improve and grow the company and he enjoys teaching his daughter all he knows about the business.

International Stoneworks is a source for all restoration and maintenance products needed for marble, travertine, limestone, terrazzo, granite, slate, basalt, bluestone, ceramic, porcelain and quarry tiles and other natural stone surfaces. –ab

T

he Air Conditioning Contractors of America Greater Houston Chapter (ACCA-GH) hosted its annual BBQ Cook Off at Billy’s Hall in Pearland Mar. 6-7. –ab

Jacqueline Tabbah gives a presentation about stone restoration.

Extra Papers?

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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.

If you would like a personal subscription ($35 per year, per city) select “Subscribe.”

Congrats to the winners!

Bloody Mary 1st: Masters Smoke N Air - Master Air 2nd: EASI Cookers 3rd: Young Guns - M&M Manufacturing Beans 1st: Masters Smoke N Air - Master Air) 2nd: Turn Key Cookers - Aces Supply 3rd: EASI Cookers Chili 1st: EASI Cookers 2nd: Turn Key Cookers - Aces Supply 3rd: Young Guns - M&M Manufacturing Chicken 1st: Turn Key Cookers - Aces Supply 2nd: EASI Cookers 3rd: Young Guns - M&M Manufacturing

Pork Ribs 1st: Young Guns - M&M Manufacturing 2nd: Turn Key Cookers - Aces Supply 3rd: EASI Cookers Cocktail 1st: Young Guns - M&M Manufacturing 2nd: Turn Key Cookers - Aces Supply 3rd: EASI Cookers Open 1st: EASI Cookers 2nd: Young Guns - M&M Manufacturing 3rd: Turn Key Cookers - Aces Supply Brisket 1st Place: EASI Cookers 2nd Place: The Tin Men - ADMP 3rd Place: Turn Key Cookers - Aces Supply Dessert 1st: EASI Cookers 2nd: Turn Key Cookers - Aces Supply 3rd: Masters Smoke N Air

continued from Page 1 — Delivered on time

continued from Page 1 — Making a difference take measures through planning and time management to prevent mishaps.”

When Diffendal isn’t busy at the office, he enjoys spending time with his two sons and going bird and deer hunting with family and friends.

“My kids like to go hunting with me too,” he said. “We usually go to a property about 60 miles east of Lubbock.”

Overall Grand Champion: EASI Cookers

Diffendal has also participated in an annual Shooting for a Cure event benefitting the Ric Summers Appendiceal Cancer Research Fund at MD Anderson.

Diffco handles concrete, earthwork storm water runoff, land clearing and underground and demolition work. Diffco is licensed to work in Texas, Oklahoma and Louisiana. –ab

Founded in 1983 by Paul Lawson, PepperLawson Construction is a Houston based, full-service construction firm providing construction management, general contracting and design-build services.

Over the years, the company has completed light industrial projects, manufacturing facilities, distribution centers, corporate headquarters, offices, religious

and institutional facilities, medical office buildings, high-rise multifamily, retail centers, K-12 schools, university facilities, restaurants and entertainment, hotel and hospitality and water/ wastewater treatment facilities. –ab Key Professional Team Project Superintendent: Don Murphy, PepperLawson Construction

Page 14

Houston Construction News • Apr 2015

Association Calendar

Industry FOLKS

Content submitted by Associations to Construction News

Salvador Perez Salesman Houston Hardwoods

ABC Associated Builders & Contractors

W

hether it is stacking up bundles of wood or interacting with customers, Salvador Perez stays active during the work week.

“I get up in the mornings and I am ready to get to work,” Perez said. “I have a passion for wood. It is always good to have a job you look forward to working at every day.”

Perez started out at Houston Hardwoods 10 years ago. In the beginning, he cleaned up the warehouse and worked his way up.

These days, he mostly handles sales, does deliveries and works on the machines.

Perez says he has two awesome bosses and enjoys working with all the people at the company.

“No day is ever the same around here,” he said. “It is a great company to work for.”

Growing up in San Antonio, Perez says he used to watch his father build cabinets after school.

“My dad made a living as a carpenter, so I learned quite a bit about woodworking from him,” he said. “I think my experience as a kid led me to get a job at Houston Hardwoods. My dad taught

me how to use a measuring tape and all about the different types of wood.

He also taught me a good work ethic.”

Perez began working in Houston after he finished high school in San Antonio at 17.

“I have two jobs today,” he said. “I also work at a ranch out in the country. I raise horses and cattle.”

When he has free time, Perez enjoys boxing for fun with his friends and co-workers.

“Once in a while we will go to a Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) event,” he said. “I am not sure when another event is coming to Houston. I look forward to going again soon.”

In the future, Perez says he plans to continue working at Houston Hardwoods and at the ranch out in the country.

“I love both my jobs,” he said. “I am always learning something new and that is a good thing!” –ab

Submitted to Construction News

Training day

The Construction & Maintenance Education Foundation (CMEF), Associated Builders & Contractors (ABC) of Greater Houston’s educational affiliate, held a State of the Foundation Breakfast at the Houston Area Safety Council Feb. 26. Training opportunities were discussed at the breakfast. –ab

Apr. 6-9: OSHA 511 Apr. 10: Breakfast; Negotiation Skills Workshop Apr. 14: HC 200 OSHA/Joint Commission Healthcare Safety Overview & Crosswalk Apr. 15: HC 301 Trainer Course for Healthcare Employee Safety and Health; Responding to OSHA Inspections Apr. 16: State of the City Apr. 20: STEP Lunch & Learn; Clay Shoot Apr. 21: Grand Opening Apr. 24: Leadership Forum Apr. 28: AST 190 Curriculum and Instruction in Adult Education Apr. 30: Geotechnical Considerations Seminar For more information call 713-523-6222

Apr. 16: BPI Session; General Lunch meeting Apr. 22: 60 Minutes With An Industry Expert: Immigration Law & Compliance Update: What You Need to Know to Protect Your Business Apr. 23: Contract Language Seminar Apr. 28: Safety Committee meeting Apr. 30: Lien & Bond Claim Seminar For more information call 281- 679-1877

FPA Foundation Performance Assoc.

Apr. 8: Presentation, 5pm – Concrete Sealing, Speaker: Stephen Powell, Kryton International Inc. For more information visit www.foundationperformance.org

HAGA

ACCA

Houston Area Glass Association

Air Conditioning Contractors of Amer.

Apr. 8: Quarterly Dinner meeting, 5:30pm Check in/Social/Cash Bar/Networking, 6:15pm Dinner Buffet, 6:30pm Presentation – Topic: OSHA Update and Houston Area Trends, Speaker: James Shelton, Compliance Assistance Specialist, Crowne Plaza Northwest, 12801 NW Freeway For info visit www.houstonglass.org

Apr. 10: Shoot Out, Registration opens at 8:30am; Games at 9am and Shoot Out starts at 10:00am, American Shooting Center, 16500 Westheimer Parkway April 21: Monthly meeting, 5:30pm8pm, Crowne Plaza, 8686 Kirby Drive.

Topic: Social Media For more information call 713-781-4822

AGC

IEC

Associated General Contractors

Independent Electrical Contractors

Apr. 6-15: Introduction to Construction Plan Reading & Specification Documents Apr. 7-10: OSHA 2225: Respiratory Protection Apr. 9: 2015 AGC Houston Patrick J. Kiley Excellence in Leadership Scholarship Awards Breakfast Apr. 14-16: OSHA 2264: Permit-Required Confined Space Apr. 16: OSHA 30-Hour Course Apr. 21-24: OSHA 510: Occupational Safety and Health Standards for the Construction Industry Apr. 23: AGC Houston New Member Orientation Apr. 24: Texas Sales and Use Taxes for Contractors Apr. 27: AGC/AIA Houston Golf Tournament Apr. 28: BIM Unit 4: Process, Adoption and Integration Apr. 28-30: SH 601: Intermediate Accident Investigation and Photography Apr. 30: Contract Law 101 For more information call 713-843-3700

Apr. 8: State Residential Appliance Installer & State Maintenance Exam (202), Weds 6pm-9pm, Contractor members $240/Non members $290 Apr. 9: State Journeyman Exam Prep Class (302), Thurs 6pm-9pm, Contractor members $240/Non members $290 Apr. 11: State Masters Exam Prep Class (402), Sat 8am – noon, Contractor members $325/Non-members $390 Apr. 22: Monthly meeting For more information call 713-869-1976

AIA American Institute of Architects

Apr. 4: Bayou Greenway Day Apr. 9: Archizines Panel Discussion: Delayed Gratification Apr. 11: UH Art & Architecture Tour Apr. 14: Programming, Planning, and Practice Vignette Workshop Apr. 16: Small Firm Roundtable Apr. 18: Montrose Walking Tour Apr. 25: Towers and Trees Walking Tour Apr. 27: 20th Annual AGC/AIA Golf Tournament For more information call 713-520-0155

ASA American Subcontractors Association

Apr. 1: Membership Committee meeting Apr. 10: Annual Golf Tournament Apr. 14: 60 Minutes with an Industry Expert: How to Successfully Improve Your Company Safety Culture Apr. 15: Safety Professional Peer Group: Insurance and Trending Safety Items; Golf Committee Wrap-Up; Risk Manager/ Contract Admin Peer Group

NAWIC Nat’l Assn. of Women in Construction

Apr. 14: General Dinner meeting, Topic: CAD competition winners presentation and lesson on how to read technical drawings, Hilton Garden Inn Houston/ Sugarland, 722 Bonaventure Way, membership is not a requirement for attendance, guests are always welcome For info visit www.nawic-houston.org

NECA National Electrical Contractor Assn.

Apr. 2: Coastal Sabine Division meeting Apr. 20: Houston Affiliate Golf Tournament Apr. 28: Houston Division meeting For more information call 713-977-2522

PHCC Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors

Apr. 22: Member Dinner, Brady’s Landing For info visit www.gulfcoastphcc.org

TSPE Texas Society of Professional Engineers

Apr. 14: Monthly meeting – Global Offshore Energy Prospects, 11:30am, HESS Club For info visit www.tspehouston.org

WCA Women Contractors Association

Apr. 2: Monthly Luncheon, 11:30am, Maggiano’s Little Italy, 2019 Post Oak Blvd.

For more information visit www.womencontractors.org

editions can be Did you Pastdownloaded at know? www.ConstructionNews.net

Houston Construction News • Apr 2015

The man behind the camera

Page 15

Submitted to Construction News

Sustainable solutions

Steve Huedepohl creates films and takes photos for HOLT CAT.

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hen HOLT CAT needs to capture as photographing people and events at the image of the company, various locations across 118 counties in that’s when multimedia com- Texas. One of his latest projects showed munications manager, Steve Huede- the teardown and rebuild of a CAT 777D pohl, grabs his equipment. mining truck at the Fort Worth facility

At 61, Huedepohl has been with the over a period of two months – in a threecompany for more than 16 years, joining minute video, which can be seen on the equipment dealer as Power Systems Vimeo. marketing manager in December 1998. “I’m so blessed to get paid to do Named multimedia communications what I love to do,” says Huedepohl. “And manager in January 2006, he is HOLT’s of- I’m very grateful for HOLT.” ficial photographer and filmmaker.

Huedepohl is not the only member

After graduating from the University of his family to make a career behind the of Texas at Austin with his bachelor’s de- eye of a lens. His paternal grandfather gree in mechanical engineering in 1977, worked at Studer’s Photos in San Antonio Huedepohl and a good friend embarked for 45 years. upon a month-long backpacking adven- Not one to sit still, when he’s not at ture through nine countries in Europe. work, Huedepohl sings and plays guitar Before leaving, Huedepohl bought his at his church, plays in a sand volleyball first camera for the trip, and he devel- league, goes snow skiing and rides dirt oped his passion on that journey. bikes. He also used to race motocross. His

He cultivated his interest on the side 32-year-old son, Erik, was a professional while working at jobs for Gulf Oil Com- motocross racer before he started his pany in Houston, designing compressor own remodeling company in 2012. He packages at HOLT Machinery, and evalu- also has a daughter, Stephanie, 22, who ating oil reserves for Alamo National lives in Denver. –mh Bank.

When the oil industry tanked and Alamo National Bank shut down his department in 1987, Huedepohl had been doing photography and videography for weddings and other events on the side for four years. So, he became self-employed and took his hobby on as a fulltime endeavor.

Two years later at church, he met Gary Stone, a marketing manager at HOLT at the time, and Huedepohl started doing photography and video jobs for the company and transitioned to working for HOLT in 1998.

Today, Huedepohl creRepresenting HOLT CAT at the Spike MS Volleyball ates primarily brand-building Tournament at Sideliners in 2012, Huedepohl and his son, Erik, won the championship that day. films for the company, as well

Wayne Klotz, PE, Klotz Associates (left), attended the West Houston Association Technical Issues Forum Breakfast in February. Bill Bertera, executive director of the Institute for Sustainable Infrastructure (right), spoke about incorporating sustainability in projects. –ab

Submitted to Construction News

The early bird

Owner James Warren arrives to Katy-based Capital Care Plumbing bright and early. –ab

Page 16

Houston Construction News • Apr 2015

B is for Bohar

T

Ready to learn

he Sugar Land Home and Garden Show recently took place at the Stafford Centre in Stafford.

Contractors and subcontractors from the Stafford and Houston areas set up booths at the event. Attendees had the chance to learn about latest products and services on the market. –ab

Wonderful Windows & Siding The Bohar Mechanical staff listens to live music at a barbecue event in Crosby.

B

ohar Mechanical is located on several acres of pasturelands in Crosby that were once home to a small herd of thoroughbred horses.

In this relaxed setting on the outskirts of Houston, the pace seems slower and working conditions right for productivity.

“Old fashioned honesty, integrity and small town pride in one's work is what we are all about,” said Linda Harvey, CEO. “My experience in pipefitting comes from working ten years in the office and out in the field as a pipe fitter's helper with my father and brother, former owners of Dan-Mar Construction.”

Harvey is a registered air conditioning and refrigeration technician with the State of Texas and works out in the field when the need arises.

The secretary and office manager is Helen Rountree and Roger Bowen is a certified welder, project manager and pipe department supervisor.

Donnie Harvey is project manager, pipe department supervisor and estimator. Brent Bowen is the company’s newest estimator.

Bohar Mechanial is a minority owned WBEA and HUB certified organization.

On the side, Harvey is a member of Women in HVAC, the Baytown Hispanic Chamber and the Highlands Chamber of Commerce.

Harvey is also currently a member of Los Bexarenos Genealogy Society of San Antonio, past vice president of the Adaesanos Foundation of Robeline, LA; current member of the Natchitoches Louisiana Genealogical and Historical Society and a life member of the Founders of Natchitoches.

Bohar Mechanical provides heating, ventilation and air-condition systems, including ductwork installation, systems service and repair to commercial customers.

–ab

Tim’s Fences

Hamres Floors and Remodeling

Final Touch Roofing