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www.constructionnews.net H (210) 308-5800 H Volume 14 H Number 12 H DECEMBER 2017
Building on friendship
Constructing the future
Linda Krienke and Ron Harris established their company 24 years ago.
Scott Stephenson is introducing drones to the commercial construction industry.
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ot many people can say they have been friends with someone for 40 years, and even fewer can say they opened a company with that person, but a great friendship and hard work is how Linron Company in Houston came to be. Linda Krienke, executive vice president and owner, and Ron Harris, president and owner, met in 1977. Harris hired Krienke for the company they originally worked for. “I was his very first interview,” Krienke laughs. “Back then, you went through employment agencies, so I started out working part-time in the file room, and moved my way up quickly because I’ve always been an over-achiever.” Harris eventually left that company to find something new and took Krienke with him. Linron Company was estab-
lished in Nov. 1993 and now has 33 employees. Harris has been around the industry his whole life. “My family had a commercial flooring business and I grew up going out to job sites and learning all phases of the business. I learned the distribution part of the business at the company I worked for with Krienke where I was VP of sales and marketing.” They have such a close relationship, and have worked together and been friends for so long that people often assume that they are married. Krienke admits that they do fight like brother and sister, though. “It’s not unusual for a blow up to happen in one of our offices with doors slamming.” continued on Page 14
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he use of drones was initially intended for military use for missions that were deemed too dangerous for humans, but unmanned aerial vehicle use is broadening. Scott Stephenson, vice president of operations of Wolf Drones, in Rosharon, envisioned drones being used in the commercial construction industry and what they could do to provide an exciting new service for companies. Stephenson started Wolf Drones in 2017 and has three employees, him and his two sons. “After more than 25 years in the manufacturing industry, I found myself looking for a new career. The opportunity for drone use was presented to me and it ex-
cited me the same way as when I went to work for Compaq Computer in 1989.” Carlos Alvarez, owner of Alvarez Striping, is the person who brought up the idea to Stephenson. “Carlos was working on a job for Amazon in the Greenspoint area and saw that the construction company was utilizing drones. I did some research and found out there was a huge potential for growth and that’s how I got started.” Although many people know about drones, and there are a lot being used for entertainment purposes, Stephenson wants to educate the industry about what his drones can do for them. “Drones are not toys, but exciting, new tools to help continued on Page 14
Celebrating a holiday
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hen beginning a large construction project, owners and contractors don’t expect for everything to be perfect, but no one expected for the new Holiday Inn Express & Suites near Hobby International Airport to become such a problem. Imran Qamar, managing director for Blue Moon Construction, took over the project on April 1st, 2017 after the owners, Hobby Hotel Group LLC, were having some major issues with the previously hired contractors. “We started this project in Dec. 2015 as project managers for the owners. The contractor wasn’t getting the work done and there were many different issues.” After nine months, the project came to a dead stop. There weren’t any other contractors who were willing to take over the project due to the delays, it was 24 months be-
hind schedule and there were budget and inspection issues, too. “We came in and offered to take over and complete it.” You may be asking why Qamar would put himself and his business in this situation, but he had a good reason. “It was a win-win situation because we were looking to move from a project management company to a construction company. And since we were involved in the project already, we knew where the issues were.” The owners obliged and Qamar and Blue Moon Construction picked up their first major project. The project was supposed to be completed in 12 months, but it took 33 months because of all of the issues and setbacks. “When we took over, the building still had studs and the dry wall wasn’t up. The walls weren’t straight, the inspections weren’t done, but it was an amazing The exterior of the hotel showcases a stone and stucco façade.
continued on Page 14
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Houston Construction News • December 2017
Construction News ON LOCATION
Construction News ON LOCATION
Constructing new projects
Tannos Construction in Friendswood is busy with projects around town. L-R: Bobby Hill, Ericka Brown, Anna Lane, Jonah Tannos, and Louis Tannos. - te
Curative creations
Robert Aguirre with Hardwood Creations in Katy is experienced in solid hardwood flooring replacement and installation. - te
Demonstration day
United Tool & Fastener held a tool demonstration Nov. 1 at their Houston location. L-R: James Pesl and Amy Sexton with United Tool & Fastener, Cindi Wright with PIP, and Randy Richardson with RC Richardson. - te
TANYA ERICKSON, Editor Houston Construction News (832) 595-0091 HoustonEditor@ConstructionNews.net If you are a construction-related company in the Houston area and would like an article about your company and personnel, call Tanya for an interview in person or over the phone. There is absolutely no charge for interviews, articles and photos. All content is free. If you are interested in advertising contact Buddy Doebbler, Publisher, at our home office, (210) 308-5800.
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Publisher . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Buddy Doebbler Editorial/Production . . . . . . Reesa Doebbler Managing Editor . . . . . . . . . . . . . Carol Wiatrek Production Manager . . . . Helen Greenwood Administration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Terri Adams Account Manager . . . . . . . . . . . . .Dana Calonge Construction News Ltd. Home Office P.O. Box 791290 • San Antonio, Tx 78279 210-308-5800 Fax 210-308-5960 www.ConstructionNews.net If you are a construction-related company in Harris, Galveston, Fort Bend or Montgomery counties and are not receiving a free digital copy of the Houston Construction News, visit our website and select “Subscribe.” ConstructionNews.net
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. 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.
©2017 Construction News, Ltd.
Houston Construction News • December 2017
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What’s your biggest pet peeve? When someone does not leave a finished product to my standards. I do not like short cuts or sloppy work. I have a great eye for detail and I can pick out a flaw right away due to a rushed job; finishing touches need to be perfect. Danielle Wright Right Choice Development Water bottles! Litter is such a pain and plastic water bottles require constant housekeeping. Eric Murphey Murphy Paving LLC Procrastination. I don’t like when people tell me they’re going to do something but don’t do it. Wayne Schramme Schramme Construction People showing up late. Bobby Schramme Schramme Construction The lack of honesty from employer to employee. I cannot stand to be lied to. Just be honest with whatever the scenario is and we can work through it. Kenneth Redding Titan Industrial When people work to check off a list and not do just the work they care about. This leads to careless mistakes. Imran M. Qamar Blue Moon Construction My biggest pet peeve is unnecessary repetitiveness. Jake Siegrist Coast Graphics and Signs
GOOD NEWS!
You always look good in Construction News, Guaranteed! Call us for a Company Profile (210) 308-5800
My biggest pet peeves are when people chew with their mouth open or when people interrupt a conversation. Dylan Martin A Pro Top Construction My brother Lou and his classic movies! Everyday he watches and records classic movies instead of the news. It drives me crazy. Pat Rothman MBS Tool & Fastener I can’t stand people that don’t know how to drive or spend more time on their phone texting, not paying attention to their driving. Wade Briggs H & E Equipment Waiting in line at the grocery store and waiting for that one person fumbling with their money – just pay the cashier. Rosario Flores RAMCO Erectors Rude drivers! Donn Lyles Distribution Now I can’t stand it when someone tells me they’re going to do something, then forgets and acts like they never said they were going to do it. Also, when people are constantly changing plans. Travis Bennett Basic Builders Inc.
A safer Texas
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n 1991, the Texas Legislature took a stance on the skyrocketing workers’ compensation rates that affected Texas companies in the late ‘80s and early ‘90s. This company orig-inally known as the Texas Workers’ Compensation Insurance Fund, would later be-come known as Texas Mutual Insurance. On June 5, 2001, Governor Rick Perry changed the company’s name by signing into law HB 3458 and authorizing the company to operate as a domestic mutual insurance company. The bill would maintain constitutional mandates that the company remain a competitive force in the marketplace, guarantee the availability of workers’ compensation insurance in Texas, and act as an insurer of last resort for those companies unable to find coverage elsewhere. In 2007, Texas Mutual began to utilize a program created within its safety department called the Work Safe Texas Award Program to recognize policyholders whose commitment to employee safety sets them apart.
“We wanted to recognize our customers who were providing outstanding safety services for their employees. We recognize these companies on an annual basis. Currently, we insure about 68,000 policyholders across the state and we recognize the top 200, so these are the best of the best,” says Regional Manager of Safety Services for the Austin region, Stacy Rose. “Safety is a core value in our organization and we are very pleased that we are able to have this recognition reward program each year to highlight and bring the best of the best up to forefront and recognize them. It’s about keeping the workers safe so they are able to come to work and go home every day safely.” Texas Mutual Insurance is a workers’ compensation provider across the state of Texas. -cmw
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Houston Construction News • December 2017
Finders keepers! Benefit options to attract and keep good employees Leann Ussery, CPA, Tax Manager Armstrong, Vaughan & Associates, P.C. Universal City, TX
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any companies in the construction industry are experiencing increased difficulty in attracting and keeping good skilled laborers. One way to edge out the competition is to offer better employee benefits. One employee benefit becoming more popular with construction companies is offering retirement benefits to employees. For the purposes of this column, we’ll explore four basic retirement plan options, but there are other options available. • Any size company may set up a tradiSimple IRA • A Simple IRA is arguably the least com- tional 401(k) plan although the higher plicated and least expensive plan to set cost tends to prohibit this option for small companies. up. • Plans are available only to companies • Eligible employees can contribute up to with 100 or fewer employees and no oth- $18,500/year (for 2018), on a tax-deferred basis through payroll deductions. er retirement plan. •Eligible employees can contribute up to • Eligible employees over 50 can contrib$12,500/year, on a tax-deferred basis ute an additional $6,000/year. • Matching the employees’ elective deferthrough payroll deductions. • Eligible employees over 50 can contrib- rals (up to 25% of compensation) is an ute an additional $3,000/year if the plan option, but not a requirement. • Traditional 401(k) plans may also allow allows. • Employers can either elect to match up for employer discretionary profit-sharing to 3% of the employee contributions or contributions which might be a better fit can make non-elective contributions of if net income varies year-to-year. • Unlike Simple IRA’s or SEP plans, vesting 2% of the employees’ annual salary. • Eligible employees are established by of the employer contributions is not necthe plan documentation, largely at the essarily immediate, but may specify a discretion of the employer. You may vesting schedule after a certain period of choose to include all employees without time or years of service. restriction or you may limit to those who • Plans must meet nondiscrimination rehave earned at least $5,000 in compen- quirements and require annual testing. sation in any two calendar years preced- • Matching contributions are not taxable ing the current year or who are reason- income to the employee until distributed ably expected to receive $5,000 in com- but are a tax deduction for the company subject to certain limits. pensation during the current year. • Matching contributions are not taxable Safe-Harbor 401(k) income to the employee until distribut- • Safe-harbor 401(k) plans function just ed but are a tax deduction for the com- like traditional 401(k) plans except that employer contributions are required, pany. generally at no less than 3% of compenSimplified Employee Pension (SEP) • SEP plans are easy to establish, have low sation, and are immediately vested. administrative fees, and are available to • For many employers, this option is well worth the additional contribution reany size company. • There are no employee contributions/ quirement because there is no annual deferrals. All contributions are at the dis- discrimination testing. For this reason, cretion of the employer, made by the it’s one of the fastest growing plans for small businesses. employer for all eligible employees. • Employer elects to contribute an equal Regardless of type of plan chosen, earpercentage 0% to 25% of each eligible ly distributions (before age 59½) are employees’ annual salary (maximum typically subject to penalties. Every employer has a different contribution of $55,000 for 2018). • Eligible employees must include all threshold for costs of employee benefits over the age of 21 with three years of and plan costs vary greatly depending on employment in the company. Plans may your employee base and desired contriallow for additional employees at em- butions. Contact your tax professional for an individual in-depth analysis of variployer discretion. • Like Simple IRA’s, contributions are not ous retirement plans, their costs, and potaxable income to the employee until tential tax savings. Leann Ussery, CPA is tax manager of corpodistributed but are a tax deduction for rate/partnership returns and focuses on the tax the company. needs of small-to-mid sized entities, including Traditional 401(k) entities with multi-state tax issues. Leann joined • More complex to establish with higher Armstrong, Vaughan & Associates, PC in 2008 administrative fees, but allows for more after graduating from Angelo State University with an MBA in Accounting. She can be reached customization. at 210-658-6229.
Driven to distraction Lauren Allen, Vice President-Sales BrookStone Insurance Group Dallas, TX
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istracted drivers are everywhere and are the single largest contributing factor to traffic accidents today. Consider this: during the 5 seconds it takes to read a text, a vehicle traveling 55mph will move approximately 250 feet down the road, or nearly the length of a football field. Because drivers are often preoccupied when driving, employers must evaluate the potential risks involved in the operation of both company-owned and non-company-owned vehicles (non-owned vehicles are those owned by others, including vehicles owned by employees). This is especially true when considering the U.S. legal doctrine of respondeat superior (Latin for “Let the master answer”) as the employer is liable for the injuries caused by an employee who is working within the scope of his employment. Employees who use their own personal vehicle to travel between worksites, drop off paperwork at other offices, or run a quick errand to the bank, can put their company at risk. Additionally, the utilization of independent contractors could impose liability on the employer for these individuals’ actions should an auto accident occur while they are conducting business for the company. To effectively assess your company’s risk, it is imperative to evaluate current non-owned vehicle use. In collaboration with FCCI insurance, consider the following: • Determine the number of employees utilizing their personal vehicles for business use; • Identify the frequency of this type of driving; • Recognize the area(s) where this driving will occur; and • Be informed on the minimum auto liability limits in the state. (In Texas, these limits are $30,000 for each injured person, up to a total of $60,000 per accident, and $25,000 for property damage per accident).
• Develop a workplace driving policy. Tip: require that all drivers are included in the company’s defensive driver training sessions, and establish rules regarding cell phone use and the number of passengers an employee can drive at one time. • Set vehicle standards. Tip: utilize the same vehicle maintenance standards for both company-owned and non-company-owned autos, including periodic inspections and records of maintenance reports at designated times. • Obtain valid certificate of insurance from independent contractors. Tip: recheck coverage at various intervals – 45 days (as many cancellations for nonpayment occur after 30 days), and at various intervals before the contract anniversary. • Establish minimum required limits of liability insurance. Tip: consider minimum limits of at least $100,000 if dealing with a handful of non-owned drivers (for more employees consider increasing the limits to $300,000). Also request that non-owned drivers’ auto policies not have a business exclusion clause. • Understand rental car agreements. Tip: develop a business relationship with a rental car company and set parameters for car types and accessible features. Also ensure employees understand which insurance coverage to accept and which to waive.
If these limits are exhausted due to an employee’s negligent act then liability could shift to the employer, and if the company does not possess non-owned auto coverage then the employer could be on the hook.
Do not slip into a false sense of security when an employee drives a personal vehicle for company business. If an employer allows an employee to use his/her personal vehicle for business purposes, this is considered a non-owned auto exposure risk, and the consequences could be devastating should an accident occur.
Once the company has assessed its risk regarding non-owned vehicle use, the next step is learning how to mitigate and implement proper safety controls: • Establish an approved driver list. Tip: those included on this list must possess valid driver licenses, and the employer should review each driver’s Motor Vehicle Records (both at the time of hire and annually thereafter).
Lauren Allen is a licensed attorney in the State of Texas and the Vice President of Sales at BrookStone Insurance Group. She focuses on collaborating, innovating and delivering risk management plans tailored to her clients’ specific needs. She can be reached at 214-301-3333 or lallen@brookstone-group.com
Par-taking in fun
Across the board
BakerTriangle held a golf tournament for the Periwinkle Foundation in Houston and were able to donate over $45,000. - te
The Gulf Coast Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors Association (PHCC) announced the 2018 Board Members. L-R: Greg Larson, Lindsey Frank, James McStravock, Todd Iocco, Josh Hollub, Karen Pickett, Doug Turner and Colton Taylor. Glenn Fuller is not shown. - te
Houston Construction News • December 2017
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Texas Supreme Court clarifies standard for suits against design professionals
Texas Top Construction Hazards in 2017
Tracy Galimore, Senior Counsel Peckar & Abramson Austin, TX
Joann Natarajan Compliance Assistance Specialist OSHA Austin, TX
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he Texas Supreme Court recently considered two cases seeking to clarify the meaning of and standards in Tex. Civ. Prac. Rem. Code Ch. 150, which requires suits against design professionals to be supported by a sworn affidavit known as a Certificate of Merit (“COM”). When the plaintiff’s claims arise from the defendant’s provision of professional services, a COM must be furnished by a similarly licensed third-party expert who shall attest the design professional’s negligent acts, errors or omissions. The purpose of the law is to deter and quickly dismiss non-meritorious claims. The statute requires the third-party lenged the COM submitted by East Rio expert hold the same license as the de- Hondo’s expert on the grounds that it did fendant design professional, and also be not contain sufficient factual support for knowledgeable in the defendant’s prac- each of the plaintiff’s claims. The Court tice area. If the plaintiff fails to file a COM rejected Melden’s interpretation of the in compliance with the statute, the court statute which would require the COM to shall dismiss the claim and the plaintiff substantiate the plaintiff’s legal theories may be prevented from filing suit again. for suing the engineer. According to the In Levinson Alcoser Assoc. LP v. El Pisto- Court, the statute only obligates the lon II, Ltd., the Court considered whether plaintiff to furnish a COM attesting to the the COM filed by El Pistolon, the devel- defendant’s professional errors or omisoper of a shopping center, sufficiently sions and their factual basis. The Court complied with the statute when the also determined the third-party expert third-party expert listed only his license could reserve his/her right to modify the as his relevant experience. The Texas Su- opinion if additional information is made preme Court held the requirement that available, noting the COM statute does the third-party expert be knowledgeable not require the plaintiff to disclose all its in the practice area cannot be satisfied evidence at the start of the case. simply because the expert holds the These opinions offer clarification for same professional license as the defen- those seeking to file suit against licensed dant. The COM must include the specific architects, engineers, surveyors and illustrations of the expert’s familiarity or landscape architects and the interpretaexperience with the practice area at issue tions provided should be closely heeded in the litigation. In this case, the plaintiff’s to avoid a complete dismissal of claims expert should have detailed his experi- against these professionals. ence designing shopping centers in the Tracy Galimore is Senior Counsel in COM. The faulty COM resulted in the de- Peckar & Abramson’s Houston office. A veloper’s claims against the architect be- Board Certified Construction lawyer, she ing dismissed. represents contractors, sureties, owners, In Melden & Hunt v. East Rio Hondo and developers in construction related Water Supply, East Rio Hondo sued transactions and disputes. She can be Melden, the designer of its water-treat- reached at 281.953.7706 or tgalimore@ ment plant, for defective engineering pecklaw.com. and project supervision. Melden chal-
Don’t forget to send us your company Christmas photos Email to HoustonEditor@ConstructionNews.net Send photo and caption Construction News ON LOCATION
Keeping work organized
Lacy Fenley keeps orders and the showroom organized at The Factory in Friendswood where granite is sold for countertops. - te
he list of most frequently cited OSHA laws in construction over the last year:
1. 1926.501(b)(13) – Fall protection was not provided in residential construction where workers could fall more than 6 feet. This hazard was cited more than 486 times for a total fine of 1.9 million dollars. 2. 1926.102(a)(1) – OSHA cited employers for not providing or not requiring workers to wear eye and face protection when necessary to protect them. For example, safety glasses would be required when workers are using hand and power tools. 3. 1926.1053(b)(1) – Extension ladders did not extend at least 3 feet above the upper level so that workers would have the support when stepping off the ladder to the upper level. 4. 1926.501(b)(1) – No fall protection was provided when workers were exposed to a fall distance of 6 feet or more to a lower level. 5. 1926.100(a) – No head protection was provided where there were overhead hazards. OSHA requires workers to wear hard hats if there are hazards that could strike the workers head, such as other workers who could drop materials or tools from an overhead scaffold. 6. 1926.503(a)(1) –Training on the recognition and avoidance of fall hazards was not provided to workers. Workers that are exposed to fall hazards have to be trained on how to recognize potential fall hazards, and fall protection measures such as guardrails and personal fall arrest systems.
7. 1926.453(b)(2)(v) – Workers in an aerial lift were not wearing a body harness and lanyard and were not attached to the lift anchor point. OSHA requires workers in aerial lifts be tied off to prevent them from being ejected or falling out of the lift. 8. 1926.451(e)(1) – OSHA requires that workers be provided a safe method to access working levels of scaffolds. Climbing the end frame is allowed if the scaffold is designed for this purpose, but climbing the cross braces is not allowed. 9. 1904.39(a)(2) – The employer did not report a workplace incident that resulted in an amputation, loss or eye, or inpatient hospitalization of one or more workers within 24 hours. The requirement to report these injuries became effective January 1, 2015. 10. 1926.501(b)(10) – Fall protection was not provided on low slope roofs. Options for low slope roofs include guardrail systems, safety net systems, personal fall arrest systems, or a combination of warning line system and guardrail system, warning line system and safety net system, or warning line system and personal fall arrest system, or warning line system and safety monitoring system. Or, on roofs 50-feet (15.25 m) or less in width the use of a safety monitoring system alone [i.e. without the warning line system] is permitted. natarajan.joann@dol.gov 512-374-0271 x232
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Houston Construction News • December 2017
Are you married? Yes, and my wife and I have been married for 22 years. We actually dated long distance because she lived in Houston and I lived in Waco at the time. We made the best of it by writing letters and sending them by mail for two years in order to avoid spending too much money on long distance phone bills. We were married in November 2005 and she moved to Waco with me.
Jeremy Green President Performance Drywall LLC
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long with being president of Performance Drywall in Houston, Jeremy Green is also one of the project managers for a company in Waco called A&H Drywall. He lives in Waco with his family and runs Performance Drywall from his office there and comes down to visit and check up on things regularly here in Houston. Where did you grow up? I was born in Clifton, TX and raised in the Waco, TX area. Where did you go to high school? I was home schooled and earned my diploma through American High School. Both of my older children were home schooled, as well. Where did you go to college and what did you study? I went to McLennan Community College in Waco and studied Engineering Blueprint and Drafting. What did you do after graduating from college? I entered the workforce as a commercial drywall apprentice. Do you have any siblings? I have two older brothers and two older sisters. Are any of them involved in the construction industry? My oldest brother was a homebuilder who I worked for in the summers starting at an early age, and he recently retired. My middle brother is a paint contractor in the central Texas area and took over my father’s painting business. He has been in that industry for over 35 years now.
Do you have any children? We have a 20-year-old son, a 17-yearold daughter, and a one-and-a-half-yearold daughter. When my son Caleb was born, we moved to Houston because he was the first grandchild for my wife’s parents’ so we wanted them to be able to spend time with him as much as possible. Would you like any of your children to take over the company one day? Yes, that is the plan. Caleb started working as a handy man at the bed and breakfast across the street from our home and expressed his interest in coming to work with me. I loaded him up in the truck and took him to a few different stores to acquire the tools he needed to make his start in the very same industry, with the same title, working for the same company that I made my start with over 24 years ago. I’m not too sure how many can say that, but it has definitely made me proud! What do you enjoy doing when you are not working? Being with my family, sampling rare whiskeys with a few groups I am a part of, such as the Waco Whiskey Club and the Texas Whiskey Society. I also enjoy road and mounting biking as well as traveling. I like to cook, and love to find foods that I have never tried before. How did you get into this industry? I had a relative working in the commercial drywall industry and I got work by word-of-mouth. How long have you been working in this industry? I’ve been in the same industry for 24 years. When did you establish Performance Drywall? The business started in 2007 and we just recently celebrated the 10th anniversary.
What made you want to start your own business? I actually never wanted to start my own business. I never referred to myself as an entrepreneur, but I was convinced to leave the company I had been with for seven years and give it try. I formed Performance Drywall with four partners and I am the last man standing after member shares were purchased. What are your plans for the future? I want to continue to provide leadership for my company and expand my current market. I would also like to create a non-profit organization that focuses on attracting high school students who currently have no plans to attend college. I want to teach them how to enter the commercial construction industry, while benchmarking with owners of companies to get the students placed in the specific industry that interests them most. Why do you think this program would be important? I believe we will agree that the construction industry today lacks the apprentices needed to learn from those that have earned their living perfecting their specific trades. These seasoned tradesmen currently performing work in the field are getting older. I think if you blend the seasoned talent with a young person’s physical ability, it has the potential to work well, especially here in the Texas market where we are flooded with work (no pun intended). Every day we come together at job site meetings, luncheons, etc. and year after year, a person in my position soon realizes they have met an abundance of people in a large spectrum of businesses and trades. If these kids exiting high school with no desire to enter college are found and someone spends a little time to research what trade interests them, all a person like me has to do is pair them up with the right companies willing to make a small investment in the future of their industry. I don’t expect every kid I meet to want to enter the commercial drywall industry, but if someone asks the young ones the right questions, and finds a trade that sparks their interest, get it done! What is one thing that you really enjoy about your job? Being the best at what I do! I enjoy taking projects from the conceptual budget phase to punch list while my company and customers remain profitable.
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Flooring stars
Lone Star Floors – Katy offers flooring solutions and products for any room. L-R: Mohamed Naser and Matt Carreon. - te
Jeremy Green established his company in 2007.
What is a challenge you face being in the commercial construction industry? Time! The commercial construction industry has challenged many companies today due to design and/or architectural firms not being able to provide the details of yesteryear, or so many believe. I personally chalk up the challenges that the architectural community is faced with may be in part to a learning curve with technology, which creates a problem that many design teams are struggling to figure out. They have a concept or idea, but are sometimes unable to get that idea on paper that utilizes real world means and methods. Owners are putting these firms in a bind by expecting them to create bigger ideas with less time to bring all necessary processes to the table. What has been the highlight of your career so far? To be doing the same thing for over 20 years and still enjoy doing it. Too many people complain about their jobs, yet are forced to spend 2,000 hours of their life every year going to work. I am blessed to say I enjoy what I do. We all have good days and bad days, but the good always outweighs the bad if your expectations aren’t too high. I would have to say the highlight of my career thus far is still being able to enjoy my days at work. - te
Texas Style
H H H H
San Antonio Austin Dallas/Fort Worth Houston
Houston Construction News • December 2017
Page 7
Your perfect fishing destination by Capt. Steve Schultz Sponsored by: Waypoint Marine, Majek Boats, Evinrude Outboards, Fishing Tackle Unlimited, E-Z Bel Construction, Costa Sunglasses, Diawa Reels, Power Pole Shallow Water Anchor, Aggregate Haulers, ForEverlast Fishing Products, Interstate Batteries, MirrOlure, and AFTCO Clothing.
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ost of us avid anglers take what we have in our own backyard for granted. I’m talking about the entire Texas Gulf Coast bays and estuaries that line our state from the Gulf of Mexico to Louisiana. Believe it or not, Texas has a world class fishery that many of us don’t realize. With over 360 miles of coastline and more than 3,360 miles of tidal shoreline, Texas has been a premier destination for many years. One of the most popular fishing destinations in the state is the Laguna Madre and, in particular, the Baffin Bay area. Anglers from all over the state and gulf regions of the U.S. visit these waters during winter months in
Josh Aljoe of San Antonio caught this fat 24.5-in. speck that weighed nearly 5 lbs. fishing the boat hole last week with Steve Schultz Outdoors.
search of one trophy – Trophy Speckled Trout! Wintertime remains one of the best times to target large specks. Speckled trout feed less during winter months, but eat larger portions to conserve energy. Most of the bays along the Texas Gulf Coast have access guts and channels into the Gulf of Mexico which allow these fish to migrate to open water. Baffin Bay is virtually a closed bay system which traps a large portion of the fish throughout the year. These resident fish learn to adapt to harsh conditions such as rapid tempera-
ture changes, hyper salinity conditions and lack of food source. Needless to say, these fish become warriors and learn to survive or be devoured. Big trout are scarce but, fortunately, they are more common than monster bucks and you don’t have to pay to get behind a high fence to have a chance at one. Learning where these fish live and their habits determines your success in catching these big girls. Fishing for these big girls is an easy task; however, knowing where to catch them is the question most anglers ask.
What kind of outdoor are you?
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ver since we began our first Construction News paper in October 1998 for the San Antonio area, the center of the paper has always been devoted to outdoor. Each paper after that in Austin, Dallas/Fort Worth and Houston has followed the same path. The folks in our industry work hard and play hard and The Great Outdoors
section is a place to show your peers just how much fun YOU are having and making them a little jealous is okay too. Hunting, fishing and other types of outdoor adventures are always welcome. Don’t be shy and there is never a cost. So contact your Construction News editor and be a part of the Great Outdoors. -bd
Send us your photos and stories. Outdoor activities and sports Fishing • Hunting • Biking • Racing Hobbies • Crafts • Entertainment
Many factors play a part in knowing where to fish on any given day. Being on the water daily takes a lot of guess work out of the equation. Another challenge to your day on the water is choosing the right bait to throw. There are thousands of baits to choose from, some that are new and popular, and then there are those that have been around for many years and have a proven record. It all boils down to preference and having confidence in what’s tied on the end of your rod. I will be splitting my time this season between Baffin Bay and Port Mainsfield this winter. Baffin trips will depart from Marker 37 marina. Port Mansfield trip will include accommodations in a luxurious 5-bedroom house that will sleep up to 10 fishermen. The Laguna house has all comforts of home with a large outdoor deck and cooking area to entertain clients and guests. A two-day minimum is required for the Lower Laguna Madre trips. If you are interested in either of the winter wade fishing packages don’t hesitate to give me a call to discuss rates and packages. My calendar is starting to fill for these winter trout fishing trips, so don’t hesitate to call and get yours booked before these dates are full. I still have several open dates for the 2017 season and my 2018 calendar is also open for bookings. Don’t hesitate in booking your fishing trips because my dates usually go pretty quick, especially during the more popular months. I’m also offering some trophy and management deer hunts in South Texas if you are interested. Please call me for specifics and pricing. To schedule your next bay fishing trip or hunting trip give Capt. Steve Schultz a call at 361-813-3716 or 361-334-3105 or e-mail him at SteveSchultzOutdoors@gmail.com. Good luck and Good Fishing.
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Houston Construction News • December 2017
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 the radio as follows: The Great Outdoors: 5-8 am Saturday on 1300, The Zone, Austin and The Great Outdoors: 5-7 am Saturday on 1200 WOAI San Antonio The Sunday Sportsman: 6-8 am Sunday on 1300, The Zone, Austin All on iHeart Radio
Winter fishing is here
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inter is almost here, or at least what passes for winter in Texas. The weather forecasters are saying that we are in for a generally warmer and drier winter this year, with a few little cold hiccups here and there. That means we are in for a lot of nice fishing weather the next few months. If you read up on stripers or have fished for them very much, you know how important water temperature is to their behavior. The “perfect” water temperature for them is 55 – 68 degrees. This explains why things go bad for the stripers when we get to the end of summer and sometimes see water temps in the high ‘80s or low ‘90s. That’s over for now and we are back in cool water again. Cool water gets the stripers back to feeding well again and schooling up. They are all about getting fat and sassy ready to spawn next spring. We also get into some really nice bluecats in cool winter water.
We have been doing striper fishing charters for many years and have noticed that while the winter fishing is still just as good as ever, we aren’t seeing as many people taking advantage of it. I really think that this is still just a holdover from all the bad press and bad experiences with our lakes from the drought. It always takes a while for people to rediscover the lakes after a drought. Winter fishing is a little iffy because of the frequent “cold” fronts that pump through, but we also have some of our best fishing weather of the year. We encourage fishermen to get their trip on the books and cross their fingers that the weather will cooperate. If all goes well they are in for a treat. Sometimes the weather can fool even the most experienced fishing guide. I remember one afternoon when the weather turned off really bad. We had 31 degrees and 25 mph winds and pelting sleet. We also had a fishing trip scheduled, but never could reach the folks to cancel the fishing trip. Long story short, the fishermen showed up at the dock and piled out of their pickup looking like the little brother from the Christmas Story movie. They were so bundled up with a continued next page
Gene Tramp catfish
Houston Construction News • December 2017
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mix of camo hunting coveralls and snow skiing gear they could hardly bend their arms and legs. We loaded up and pointed the bow of the boat into that icy wind and went fishing. In 45 minutes we were back at the dock…LIMITED OUT! The moral of this story is that winter fishing can be awesome! It may not be a shorts and flip flops and sunscreen kind of trip, but I promise the fish won’t laugh at you fishing in your camo hunting clothes. In fact, you’ll be the one laughing and having a good time. If you are in the Hill Country to go hunting, or have out of town guests to entertain for the holidays, give us a call and we can get you on the water. A nice fish fry and a good time might fit just fine into your plans this winter!
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Houston Construction News • December 2017
HALLOWEEN PHOTOS
Construction News Nerds of SA! L-R: Buddy Doebbler, Terri Adams, Carol Wiatrek, Reesa Doebbler, Dana Calonge. Not available, Helen Greenwood -rd
Memco - Houston
Rishaan and Aarush, sons of Gaurav Tripathi with Raba Kistner. -te
Employees at JE Dunn showed off their best Halloween costumes. - te
Houston Construction News • December 2017
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THIS TH MON Jan: Construction Forecast Mar: Construction Education May: Concrete Industry July: Electrical Industry Feb: Construction Safety Apr: Women in Construction Jun: HVAC & Plumbing Aug: Service Providers
Cautiously Optimistic Brian P. McGuire, President and CEO Associated Equipment Distributors Schaumburg, IL
B
usiness is good on the construction equipment side of things according to AED members and most are optimistic about the future. However, we still face challenges. Many report business is up or at least consistent with last year, though margins remain slim. Hot button issues include what’s included in the tax reform bill (H.R.1) working its way through congress. While H.R. 1 has provisions beneficial to AED members, there are also some troubling portions. We are particularly concerned with Sec. 3303, which prevents the use of like-kind exchanges (LKE) for personal property starting in 2018. While the provision doesn’t apply to an exchange if (A) the property disposed of by the taxpayer in the exchange is disposed of on or before Dec. 31 2017, or (B) the property received by the taxpayer in the exchange is received on or before Dec. 31,
2017, eliminating personal property LKE from the tax code will create uncertainty and could detrimentally impact capital investments. One challenge facing the industry includes lack of action on a federal infrastructure bill. Everyone in Washington says they want a long-term bill, but so far we’ve seen nothing. We are anxious for Congress to take responsibility for maintaining and improving infrastructure, which are the backbone of our nation and a prime driver of jobs and the economy. This is one place Congress needs to be bold.
Case
M
ore power. More productivity. More value. Introducing the C Series, CASE’s expanded line of mini excavators that now includes six models from 1.7 to 6.0 metric tons. These compact excavators are ideal for use in tight spaces and applications such as general and residential construction, landscaping and utility work. C Series mini excavators provide parallel, unobstructed operation near obstacles, tree lines and foundations thanks to their zero, short-tail or conventional swing design and independent center swing boom that can be offset left or right within an operating range. Offered in zero tail swing, short-radius or conventional configurations, C Se-
R
ries mini excavators feature an adjustable boom with the ability to offset left or right to work closer to buildings and obstacles. The CX17C features a variablewidth undercarriage and adjustable blade capable of passing through most common gates and for working on confined jobsites, close to buildings and in developed areas. C Series mini excavators provide parallel, unobstructed operation near obstacles, tree lines and foundations thanks to their zero, short-tail or conventional swing design and independent center swing boom that can be offset left or right within an operating range. Contact ASCO for more information at 800-687-0008 or ascoeq.com.
• 38’ - 142’ (11.6 - 43.3 m) FIVE SECTION FULL-POWER BOOM • BOOM LENGTH AND CAPACITY OUTREACHES/OUTLIFTS ALL COMPETITION • SIMPLE OPERATION – 2 BOOM EXTEND MODES • LINK-BELT PULSE 2.0 – a 10 IN FULL COLOR TOUCH SCREEN DISPLAY WITH TOTAL CRANE OPERATING SYSTEM • V-CALC (VARIABLE-CONFINED AREA LIFTING CAPACITIES) AND TELEMATICS • FULL LED LIGHTING PACKAGE WITH 3 ON-BOARD CAMERAS • TRANSPORTS AT UNDER 99,000 LBS | 44 905 KG For more information contact HOLT Crane and Equipment 877-275-1520 or visit HoltCrane.com
Sept: Green Building Nov: Architecture & Engineering Oct: Specialty Contractors Dec: Construction Equipment
Another constant challenge is workforce education and training. Finding technicians and employees in general in the construction industry is difficult. That’s why AED and the AED Foundation invest heavily in promoting our 32 Accredited Programs at colleges and universities across North America. Not all technicians are created equal. The AED Foundations Certified Technician Program allows technicians to earn a professional industry certification by successfully passing an online technical assessment. An AED Certification is widely considered to be the “Gold Standard” in the industry. Finally, as we all know, financial challenges continue to squeeze margins including the cost of equipment and labor and the cost of acquiring capital. AED members are dealing with this by getting leaner and making better use of technology. Speaking of technology, the emergence of telematics is a key shift in our industry. Telematics allow our members to stay ahead of the game in maintenance, which reduces down time. It also affords them the ability to properly utilize resources, thereby reducing idle time. Another major shift in our industry is the move from equipment sales to equip-
ment rentals. This is partially due to the lack of a federal infrastructure bill. Our equipment is too valuable and construction firms don’t want to make large investment and have the equipment sit idle, so they rent it when they need it. Unfortunately, the risk is that when things really start to boom, they may not have the equipment they need. All in all, our industry remains a very rewarding place to work. Our members provide good paying jobs, in demand careers, and the opportunity for advancement. Plus the satisfaction that comes with building and rebuilding America and strengthening our economy. In closing, how do we remain successful? By educating our workforce, staying ahead of the technology curve, and investing in people and the communities we live and work in. As an association, AED is committed to providing the tools necessary for our members to thrive. Associated Equipment Distributors (AED) is an international trade association representing companies involved in the distribution, rental and support of equipment used in construction, mining, forestry, power generation, agriculture and industrial applications. -cmw
Bobcat
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ew Bobcat T595 compact track loader boasts the most horsepower in its size class. The new 74-horsepower Bobcat® T595 compact track loader features increased horsepower and performance for pushing or digging applications, without the need for operators to move up to a bigger machine. With a 2,200-lb rated operating capacity and improved lift force, the T595 compact track loader can help increase jobsite productivity, plus it can move or carry more material with an attachment to increase jobsite efficiency. At 68 in. wide with a standard bucket, the loader’s compact size allows it to work in confined spaces, move confidently within a congested worksite or travel between homes. Its rubber tracks cause minimal ground disturbance for fewer repairs to established lawns when a project is complete. The Bobcat T595 compact track loaders come with standard controls (hands and feet). The Advanced Control System (ACS) and Selectable Joystick Controls (SJC) are available as options. Available on the new T595 is a 2-Speed
Link Belt
ough Terrain Crane 75-ton | 70 mt Remarkable control, reliability and capacity performance
Construction Equipment
travel option that allows operators to choose between low and high travel speeds to better match the jobsite conditions and tasks. A best-in-class travel speed of 10.4 mph in high range boosts jobsite productivity. This option will become available during summer of 2016. With the introduction of the T595 compact track loader, Bobcat Company now offers its customers 10 unique compact track loader models to choose from. Bobcat Company introduced its first compact track loader — the 864 — in 1999 and has since made significant refinements to the machines, including a new undercarriage in 2015, to increase the machines’ performance and jobsite productivity.
Wacker
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his mid size dumper features a 6,600 lb (3-metric ton) payload capacity, power swivel material handling and hydrostatic permanent fourwheel drive as standard. The hydrostatic drive system offers user-friendly controls, eliminating the need to change gears. The 3001 offers superior performance, the drive system automatically provides torque when and where it is needed. With no clutch to wear or gears to grind, hydrostatic drive eliminates the high parts and labor costs associated with replacing these components. ROPS and heated cab versions are available. • Operator station is easily accessible from both sides for added convenience. • Swivel bucket allows material to be unloaded on either side of the unit for ulti-
mate versatility. • Four-wheel drive provides perfect traction in difficult terrain. Articulated steering with central hose routing allows for tight turning radius and protection of the hoses. • Dashboard displays a full range of dials/ indicator lights such as fuel gauge, low fuel warning light and parking brake light for operator convenience. • Engine cover lifts high giving excellent access to all the service points
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Houston Construction News • December 2017
NEXT TH MON Kidd Roofing
Construction Forecast
If you would like to represent your company in an upcoming FOCUS, contact your Houston Editor for an Interview Tanya Erickson (832) 595-0091 HoustonEditor@ConstructionNews.net
MEC
YANMAR
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EC Aerial Work Platforms, a name synonymous with robust, unique, innovative, state-of-the-art lift designs for over 40 years introduced its new Micro Scissors line recently which included a 13 foot platform height, lightweight, low cost, feature rich scissors lift that literally took what was long considered a commodity product line and generated new excitement and enthusiasm! ‘Rock Star’ has been the term used by tradesman to describe this versatile little Red machine. The smooth, quiet, precise, infinite proportional controls combined with a very short wheelbase, super tight turning radius, extension deck, and two person capacity has made it a requirement on big jobs where protecting the vertical surfaces and door mechanics is mission critical, like hospitals and laboratories. The fact that the machines utilize Direct Electric Drive, dramatically increases operating cycle efficiencies while reducing hydraulic oil, fittings, and the risk of environmental hazards – including sealed, maintenance free AGM batteries. With the 1900 lbs. weight and super compact dimensions it can fit into elevators and, together with options of an on-board inverter, take productivity to the next level – literally. MEC has responded to customer demand to take this concept to the next higher class and as a result the Micro 19 has been introduced! The Micro 19 has kept the original concept of lightweight, extremely low floor load pressure, high efficiency, and super compact dimen-
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sions. It has the same works-in-a-drawer chassis component layout and, in keeping with the 13 foot machine, uses a construction duty, scissor linkage that puts the rigidity in a whole different league to a mast machine. Couple this to a platform that has enough space for two workers in real life not just on paper and you have a machine that can do the work of a conventional 19 footer yet fit into so many more tight places. For more information contact H&E Equipment Services at 877-700-RENT.
he ViO35-6A is our most popular model and the most innovative, fuel-efficient excavator YANMAR has ever built. The advanced technology zero tail swing ViO35-6A features an electronically controlled Tier 4 engine and dramatically evolved hydraulic system. It also comes standard with ECO and Auto-Deceleration modes for even more operational efficiency. All of which means the ViO35 delivers up to 20% less fuel consumption than previous models, without sacrificing any of the legendary Yanmar power that’s made it the most productive digging, lifting, do-anything excavator you can buy. Advanced Operation Control System The digital Smart Assist Remote control system comes standard on The ViO35-6A. This system allows you to monitor up to three months of operational history. Because this state-of-the art system centralizes control of machine operation information and maintenance support infor-
mation, it’s never been easier to maintain a timely, efficient service process. Quick Coupler System The standard hydraulic Quick Coupler makes changing buckets fast and easy. With the exception of fitting and removing the safety lock pin, the entire operation is performed electronically while you’re seated in the comfort of the cab. Less hassle. Less downtime. More productivity. Easier To Service Than Your Car The innovative design puts virtually every major component – engine, hydraulic system, starter, generator, battery – right at your fingertips. Because routine filter and grease fitting checks are easier and quicker, you can perform them more often, extending the life of and improving the durability of your machine. For more information contract H&E Equipment Services at 877-700-RENT.
Genie
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enie continues to round out its Super Boom product family by announcing the new Genie® SX-150 telescopic boom lift. Offering uncompromising productivity, reliability and serviceability, this boom lift provides industry-leading capacity through the full working envelope. The new SX-150 boom lift is a fit for construction, maintenance, telecommunications, gas and oil refineries, chemical maintenance, and large utility applications. Offering excellent productivity benefits, the SX-150 boom lift reaches its full platform height of 151 ft in under three minutes. The boom offers four programmable height settings of 150 ft, 135 ft, 120 ft and 100 ft for rental versatility, and a 10 ft horizontal and vertical rotating jib allows for quick local repositioning of the platform. With a horizontal outreach of 80 ft, this boom also offers 70 ft of outreach at 120 ft of platform height. The SX150 provides unrestricted ROM with a lift
capacity of 750 lbs for a maximum of two people. A standard 7.5 kW on-board generator powers tools, including welders. Weighing 50,700 lbs, with a tail swing of 3 ft 6in and ground clearance of 15 in, the boom lift is transportable on a standard trailer; no over-size permits are required. The boom uses an identical, fieldproven chassis design to the SX-180 and ZX-135 boom lifts. External sensors and manifolds are protected under steel covers that are easily removed providing excellent service access. The unit uses a Deutz® Tier 4 final engine with no regen or DPF. The rotating jib worm drive reduces backlash while increasing reliability and offers 60 degrees of horizontal motion for increased working area. The SX150 boom lift contains hydraulic hard lines wherever possible to increase durability while a four stage hydraulic filtration system ensures cleanliness. For more information contact H&E Equipment Services at 877-700-RENT.
Houston Construction News • December 2017
Page 13
Association Calendar
Content submitted by Associations to Construction News ABC
Associated Builders & Contractors
ASCE American Society of Civil Engineers
Dec. 6: Political Action Committee Christmas Party, Karbach Brewing Co., 6 – 9pm, for more info call 713-523-6222
Dec. 13: YM Happy Hour, Axelrad Bar, 5:30 – 7:30pm
AGC
American Society of Safety Engineers
ASSE
Associated General Contractors of Houston
Dec. 6: Safety Appreciation Happy Hour, Cedar Creek, 4 – 7pm, for more info call 713-843-3700 AIA
Dec. 7: Holiday Social, 6 – 11pm HAGA Houston Area Glass Assn.
Dec. 7: Holiday Social and Appreciation Awards, Westwind Club, 6 – 10pm
American Institute of Architects
Dec. 2: Museum District Walking Tour, MFAH Cullen Sculpture Garden, 10am, reservations recommended, for more info call 713-520-0155 Dec. 9: 9th Annual Gingerbread Buildoff, Hermann Square at City Hall, 10am – 4:30pm, for more info call 713-520-0155 Dec. 12: Holiday Party, Cullinan Hall at MFAH, 5:30pm, for more info call 713520-0155 Dec. 16: 3rd Ward Bicycle Tour, meet at HCC “Central Campus” sign, 10am, reservations required, for more info call 713520-0155 Dec. 30: Urban Art Tour: Downtown, Market Square Park, 10am, reservations recommended, for more info call 713520-0155 AMCH
Associated Masonry Contractors of Houston
Dec. 1: Christmas Party, The Redneck Country Club, 6 – 10pm, for more info call 713-806-2990
s
IEC Independent Electrical Contractors
Dec. 6: Christmas Party and Open House, 11am – 4 pm, for more info call 713-8691976 NAMC National Assn. of Minority Contractors
Dec. 6: Holiday Party, Budweiser Tasting Room, 7 – 10pm, for more info call 281616-6757 NAWIC National Assn. of Women in Construction
Dec. 11: Holiday Dinner, Maggiano’s Little Italy, 7 – 10pm PHCC Gulf Coast
Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors of America
Dec. 6: Holiday Social, Ferguson Enterprises in Sugar Land, 6:30 – 9pm, for more info call 281-702-2955
Submitted to Construction News
Round-Up
Welty Building Company Ltd. announces the following additions: Welty Building Company Ltd. welcomes James Mitchell as Senior Project Manager. He has comprehensive experience in construction planning, development, contract administration, and operations management. -te Rick Brown is the new Senior Superintendent for Welty Building Company Ltd. Brown brings 20 years of construction management experience with a specialty in healthcare construction. -te Welty Building Company Ltd. appointed Freddie Bustillo as Vice President of Business Development. The variety of positions he has held over his 36-year career have given him a comprehensive understanding of all aspects of the construction process. -te
DLR Group announced that Kirk Madison has rejoined the firm as K-12 Education Client Leader and Principal. Madison has served education clients and local communities for nearly two decades. -te Oxford Builders welcomes Rohan Shirodkar as the new Construction Manager/Estimator. Shirodkar has a Bachelors in Environmental Design and a Masters in Land & Property Development from Texas A&M University. -te
Round-Up Submissions
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/Fort Worth dfweditor@constructionnews.net Houston houstoneditor@constructionnews.net
FAKE NEWS Sweating the small stuff The citizens of Houston are still riding the high from the Astros World Series win, but this may come to a screeching halt. According to a “short” bylaw written in the rulebook for Major League Baseball, all players on each team must reach a height requirement of 5’9”. Unfortunately, at only 5’6”, Jose Altuve does not pass. Members of the League’s association plan to meet about this rule that seemed to be overlooked throughout not only this season, but since 2011 when Altuve made his major league debut for the Astros. The Yankees manager was the first to bring this overlooked rule to the attention of the League and more managers and teams are voicing their opinions, as well. Astros fans are outraged and demand an explanation for why such a rule even exists. According to a source that is on the board of directors for the MLB, “With Mr. Altuve having such a short stature, it isn’t fair for the rest of the players, especially the pitchers, because he has a completely different strike zone.” Altuve is a five-time MLB All-Star and has been voted the starting second baseman for the American League in the AllStar Game three times. He has also won four Silver Slugger Awards and one Rawlings Gold Glove. In 2014, he became the first player in over 80 years to reach 130 hits and 40 stolen bases before the AllStar Game. Despite all of these awards, the recognition, and hard work, according to the MLB, “Rules are rules and we have to stand by them, no matter how small.” If this is the case, that would mean Altuve
Aaron Judge and Jose Altuve
being stripped of all of his awards, including his most recent American League Most Valuable Player Award and the Hank Aaron Award. Altuve feels terrible about this “small” oversight and has now decided to join Little League Baseball in order to play with others who are his same height. – te
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Houston Construction News • December 2017
continued from Page 1 — Building on friendship
Construction News ON LOCATION
Mastering masonry
Mastercast in Katy supplies construction companies with stucco and masonry necessities. L-R: Rick Kane, Mario Aguvelo, Mariela Perez, and Art Ceballos. - te
Construction News ON LOCATION
Running reconnaissance in construction
Despite the occasional spat, they have set a wonderful example for their employees. “Because of the work ethic that they display, the employees have a great work ethic and we are able to build relationships with people in the office and our customers,” shares Angie Adams, vice president of operations and HR. The two make sure to treat their customers with the utmost respect. “Our claim to fame is our customer service. We treat people right and give super service. If I get a call from a customer in Los Angeles who wants advice or wants me to look at a job, I’m on the plane right away,” Harris explains. Two of Krienke’s children and Harris’ son and daughter-in-law work at Linron. “They’ve been working there since they got out of high school. We would like for them to eventually take over and keep the company running and growing; that’s one of our goals,” says Krienke. The company does a lot to give back to the community, too. “Every year we
adopt a family for Christmas, we’ve helped out veterans and the Houston Area Women’s Center, and this year we adopted an elementary school in Gonzalez, TX that lost everything to the flood,” says Krienke. Although they both put in a lot of hours, they relax when they can. Harris and Krienke are big sports fans and support all the Houston teams. Krienke and her husband have a farm in Gonzalez, TX where they plan to retire, but for now they visit on the weekends. Harris loves cars – old cars, new cars, cars that need fixing, etc. “He’s probably got every car he’s ever owned. He never trades them in because he thinks there’s going to be someone who’s going to need it,” chides Krienke. and Harris can’t help but admit that it’s true. They’ve got a great working relationship, but more importantly, a solid friendship. Linron Company is a commercial flooring company in Houston. - te
continued from Page 1 — Constructing the future the construction industry.” He is providing a service that allows companies to get started and complete projects quicker. “My favorite part of the commercial construction industry is being able to bring in this new technology and teach others about what it can do.”
As his 50th birthday draws near, Stephenson says he wants to continue to work until he can afford to retire, which is when he plans to buy an RV and travel the country with his wife and family. Wolf Drones offers different aerial services throughout the state of Texas. - te
continued from Page 1 — Celebrating a holiday
Ashley Benford and Shannon Ewing are project administrators at Reconn Construction Services in League City, which specializes in retail, commercial, and industrial construction. - te
Industry FOLKS Lizeth Hernandez Office Manager and Bookkeeper Vossler Plumbing Company
A
s office manager and bookkeeper, Lizeth Hernandez helps to keep the day-to-day tasks in order at Vossler Plumbing Company. Hernandez started working for the company in 2017 and already has a memorable story she was involved with. “We got a phone call from a customer who we helped when the Herman Lofts were being built downtown many years ago. They wanted us to take a look at their plumbing lines before doing renovations. When I told my boss, Gary Vossler, about the project, I said it was a ‘blast from the past’ not knowing that phrase would be right on the money! It turns out that when my boss worked on that project all those years ago, they accidentally dug up an old, but still live, canon ball.” Not only does Hernandez have great stories from work, she’s got a great story in her personal life. “I am engaged! We will be getting married May 2018.”
She has a son who is 8 years old and her fiancé has a son who is 9 years old. Hernandez and her future husband have a one-year-old together. When she isn’t working, she sings in the church choir at 2nd Baptist Church and leads the worship group at a Spanish church called Iglesia Biblica La Paz. She also enjoys working out at the gym, which allows her to eat all the tacos she wants. She’s an animal lover and has two cats named Alfred and Quinn. “My favorite superhero is Batman so I named them after characters from the comic books.” “I would have to say my special talent is my ability to bring people together and help them have a good time.” With her bubbly and genuine personality, it’s easy to see why people feel so at ease with her. - te
The reception desks will be lit using LED lights.
experience.” It goes without saying that there were some major challenges that needed to be overcome. One in particular was with the swimming pool. “The gunite for the original swimming pool was completed about 15 months before we got the project. After all of the rain from the Tax Day flood and Harvey, the pool had tilted. We had to fill one side and prop it back in place. “ Another challenge came when it was discovered that the building was built five inches higher than it was supposed to be. This created a lot of ADA issues. Qamar’s team had to install ramps that weren’t part of the original plans, but the sidewalks weren’t designed for these so they also had to make a smaller parking area.
www.constructionnews.net publishing the industry’s news
“The owners were obviously very frustrated. Even the bank was upset, but we provided a solution for them. We were able to build a good relationship with everyone involved which made the work easy to accomplish given the situation.” Through all of the hard work though, Qamar says, “The best part of the project is just seeing the completed hotel. This is the first building that I have done as a contractor and that is a big achievement. The challenges made it that much more rewarding.” The architecture company for the project was DR Associates and the superintendent was Azmat Aulakh with Blue Moon Construction. Blue Moon Construction is a GC in Houston and specializes in commercial, hospitality, and retail construction. - te
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Houston Construction News • December 2017
Page 15
An epic journey
O
n October 18th, Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC) Houston Chapter held their annual Excellence in Construction awards banquet at the Hyatt Regency Hotel in Houston. Houston companies were awarded for what were deemed out of this world projects in the commercial, residential, and industrial industry. - te Merit Award Winners include: Trio Electrical Camarata Masonry Systems Ltd.
MAREK Fast Track Specialties LP MMR Group Standard Constructors Inc. Bartlett Cocke General Contractors Tellepsen Industrial SpawGlass Construction Corporation E.E. Reed Construction LP Rogers-O’Brien Construction D.E. Harvey Builders Inc. Turner Construction Burton Construction Cherry Companies
Institutional over $50 million, Satterfield & Pontikes, Cypress Park High School
Finish Exterior, Haley-Greer Inc., Wildwood Corporate Centre 2
Industrial under $1 million, Group Contractors, Poly 6 MMC Building
Interior, Turner Construction, Four Seasons Lobby Renovations
Mechanical, TDIndustries, Daikin Texas Technology Park
Light Industrial, D.E. Harvey Builders Inc., Daikin Texas Technology Park
Other Specialty Construction Commercial, Aggregate Technologies Inc., Houston Methodist Hospital Fire Tank Replacement Phase 2
Electrical, Trio Electric, Market Square
Finish Interior over $1 million, Camarata Masonry Systems Ltd., 609 Main
Commercial – Mega Project, D.E. Harvey Builders Inc., 609 Main
Residential, D.E. Harvey Builders Inc., Market Square Tower
Commercial under $50 million, E.E. Reed Construction LP, Nalco Champion Office Building
Healthcare, E.E. Reed Construction LP, Vision Park Medical Office Building
Institutional Renovation, SpawGlass Construction Corporation, Houston Methodist St. John Hospital Labor and Delivery Unit Renovation Project
Finish Interior under $1 million, Oxford Builders Inc., Houston Marriott Marquis
Institutional under $50 million, Hoar Construction, Abilene Christian University Science Facilities, and Other General Contractor Commercial, Abilene Christian University’s Wildcat Football Stadium and Anthony Field
Infrastructure/Heavy Public Works and Environmental, McCarthy Building Companies, San Jacinto River Authority Surface Water Facility
Heavy Industrial Other, Craig & Heidt Inc., Gate 2 Parking Improvements
Sitework/Landscaping, Camarata Masonry Systems Ltd., Houston Marriott Marquis
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Houston Construction News • December 2017