San Antonio Construction News December 2022

Carving out excellence

Ever since Eloy Estrada was a little boy, he was interested in how things were put together. He recalls his neighbors being masons and roofers, and says as kids, on the weekends they jump in their trucks and go with them to job sites.

“I was very interested in the way a house and cabinets were put together,” Estrada says.

His interest continued to grow and by the time he was 18 years old, he start ed dabbling in woodwork, learning from trial and error. “I didn’t have a maestro in front of me telling me what to do or what not to do,” he recalls. “Throughout my entire career, I’ve been learning. Even to day, I’m learning. We try not to make mis takes, but when it happens, you get back on the horse and get it right.”

owner

After 12 years of working for another contractor, Eloy felt he was ready to ven ture out on his own. On this 36th birth day, June 30, 1986, Eloy started E.M. Es trada Millwork • Cabinets • Carpentry

“I had taught myself how to do car pentry work. And, I already knew how to build cabinets before I went to work for my previous employer, but I learned a lot more like fixing other people’s cabinets,” says Estrada.

Naturally, Estrada is highly skilled in millwork and doesn’t focus strictly on cabinets. Performing work in both the residential and commercial markets, E.M. Estrada Millwork • Cabinets • Carpentry do doors, windows, restoration work to include windows, particularly gothic win dows, furniture, and radius work.

Continuing the HOLT legacy, HOLT Industrial Rentals is a turnkey in dustrial rental company providing temporary power, climate, air, and more. The newest business from industrial- and construction-equipment experts HOLT, will provide solutions-based rentals for increasing power, climate, and industrial air needs.

HOLT Industrial Rentals’ air compressors industries, including oil and gas, events, and manufacturing, to turn to full-service rental solutions, as opposed to purchas ing and maintaining the equipment themselves. This is on top of the need for temporary equipment to support outag es, maintenance, equipment recondi tioning, and business expansion.

From sports arenas to hospitals to construction sites, HOLT Industrial Rent als will support Texas businesses, deliver ing advance- and emergency-rental equipment and planning for facilities maintenance, construction sites, events, and the energy and manufacturing in dustries.

The increased needs associated with expanding facilities, construction, and climate-based challenges have caused

A stable foundation

In the early 2000s, soil injection started in the Dallas area when mom-and-pop injection companies began popping up trying out different chemicals to help stabilize the shrinking and swelling of soils due to extreme environmental con ditions. In Texas, there is a high occur rence of highly expansive clay that ex tends from the Red River to San Antonio.

Randall Ragon, a developer within the construction industry, caught on to the stabilization of these expansive soils in areas trying to be developed. In 2010, Ragon started Eco-Soil Stabilizers with one injection machine he had fabricated and started providing soil stabilization services before trying it in the Austin area.

Still in its infancy, soil stabilization was not well known by engineers, both structural and geotechs. The science be hind it was still being gathered data be hind the longevity of the product be cause the soil is not being dug up and

Offering turnkey solutions centered around industrial power such as that of power generators, distribution, load banks, etc.; climate such as chillers, air conditioners, heaters, etc.; and air as in compressors, desiccant dryers, etc. pro vides rounded answers to challenges many endure.

“Our customers are consistently ask ing for complete solution packages, not just individual pieces of equipment,” said

moisture conditioning it. And if you’re not digging up the soil and replacing it with stable soil, what did that mean for construction foundations?

Around 2016, production compa nies began to see the value in chemical injection in the Dallas area and the com pany began to flourish. In 2018, Clark Arnold, a former contractor, partnered with Ragon and began meeting with both geotechnical and structural engi neers, building a model around the in jection - how it saves time and money for the builder and how it will save time and money on the warranty side.

“There are three types of soil stabili zation,” says Arnold. “Two are extremely expensive. One is “remove and replace” which requires removing 10ft of expan sive soil and replacing it with select soil. The other involves digging up the exist ing clay, moisture conditioning it and then stacking it back into the hole from

Eloy Estrada,

Eco-soil Stabilizers President, Clark Arnold

Advocates, the heart of the system

Over the past two years, with na tionwide volunteerism down by 67%, Child Advocates San Anto nio has seen a sharp decline in people interested in volunteering.

In November, the organization that provides Court Appointed Special Advo cates (CASAs) for children in foster care graduated a class of 22, the largest group of volunteers they have had since just af ter COVID-19 began.

But, it isn’t enough, according to Child Advocates San Antonio President and CEO Angela White.

“We have over 300 children that a Judge has requested a CASA Advocate to serve,” White said. “The older children know what a CASA is and ask to have one, and we would love to be able to give a CASA to every child who needs one. Last year, we served 1,419 children with over 650 advocates. It sounds a lot, but with over 4,000 children in the system in Bexar County there is so much more to do.”

CASAs are the only volunteers who are sworn in by a Judge to advocate for children who have been removed from their homes due to abuse and neglect. CASAs stand beside the child, getting to know them and their family, facilitating connections for the child, and sharing the child’s needs with the Judge oversee ing the case. CASAs find family members and keep kids connected to their siblings, work with schools to meet educational needs, keep track of medical concerns, and may be the only consistent person in a child’s life as children move three or more times a year while in foster care.

“I was one of those kids,” said Joan Ulsher, who has been a CASA for four years. “I was in foster care, and I didn’t have anyone to see me through the sys tem, calm my fears and keep me safe. Now I’m driven to help any other kid in a similar situation.”

Adelyn

Joan has worked with 16 children and youth over the years.

“Being an Advocate is rewarding be cause it fills the need to serve, to live a purposeful life, to give of ourselves and be intentional in that giving,” said Ulsher, who is a military veteran. “It’s seeing chil dren reap the reward and benefit of gen uine trust, communication and out reach.”

Jeff and Janice Ivey volunteer to gether as CASAs. Their very first case in cluded a baby who everyone thought was deaf because she had been so ne glected that she stopped making noises or responding to sounds. Jeff and Janice were able to make sure she got the evalu ations she needed, and she and her brother were placed in a loving, caring home.

“Seeing this child everyone thought was deaf transform into a rambunctious

happy little girl, I think that’s when it struck me that what we were doing was making a difference,” Jeff said. “The need is never going to go away, as much as we’d like that to happen. These are inno cent children who did nothing to cause them to be abused or neglected.”

Jeff Ivey is the President of River City Federal Credit Union, and Board Presi dent of the LGBT Chamber of Commerce. “The children have every right to live a normal life, to be safe, to be in a loving environment, a healthy environment –they deserve that,” he said.

White is grateful that Joan, Jeff, and Janice are there to advocate on behalf of children in foster care, and thankful for all the CASAs who serve.

“We need volunteers more than ever,” she said. “If you have ever thought about being a CASA, the time is now!”

She said that there are many young

people in the system who really need strong male role models in their lives as many of them have never had that.

“These young men and women need to know how to jumpstart a car or put up a shelf, even how to shake hands. These are things they don’t have anyone to teach them,” she said. “Being a CASA is about more than just ensuring the chil dren’s voices are heard in court; it’s also about spending time with them and lift ing them up to make great decisions and believe in themselves.”

White emphasized that the agency needs everyone to consider becoming a volunteer. Volunteers must be 21 years old, have a valid Driver’s license, and pass a background check.

“Go to our website and sign up for an information session today,” she said. “Make it your New Year’s Resolution to help a child next year!”

You can find out more at: www.casa-satx.org

Halloween fun

L-R: Rick Vincent and Craig Noto Craig and Theresa Noto, Quality Fence & Welding really got into the Halloween spirit with friends Rick and Heidi Vin cent when they attended a Halloween

party at Max’s Roadhouse where they took first place in its Halloween costume contest. -cmw

L-R: Heidi, Rick, Craig, and Theresa

Jeff and Janice Ivey with the CASA children they served on their first case. As a baby,

was thought to be deaf; in fact, she was so neglected, she stopped responding or making noise.

Make a difference in a child’s life as a CASA Advocate

Happy 40th

Main Glass & Mirror Co. of San Antonio celebrated 40 years in business with a big party on Oct. 22. The event was held at the owner’s home in the hill country just south of New Braunfels.

The guest of honor was George Ti lotta of Meyerland Glass in Stafford, Texas. Tilotta was one of the founding partners of Main Glass forty years ago along with Rob Stewart and the late Jack Tippett

Forty years ago, Stewart had a wife and four very young children to support but he took advantage of the opportuni ty and made the most of it for all of them. A few years later Stewart bought out his former partners and has continued to op erate the company all this time, moving the business to Schertz twenty years ago where he has managed and grown a suc cessful construction business in the glass and glazing field.

Tilotta presented Stewart with a beautiful plaque commemorating the ac complishment of keeping the business going through good times, bad times, gains and losses, the recent pandemic, and every other kind of challenge that has come along.

Many business associates, contrac tors who have become friends, current and former employees, neighbors, fami ly, and friends of all ages and back grounds were in attendance. Many of the attendees drove for hours to congratu late Stewart on his great accomplish ment. Stewart was quick to tell anyone and everyone that God deserves the glo ry. “It is God’s blessing on this business and life that has made the success of Main Glass possible,” said Stewart.

It brought special joy to Rob to have such a great turnout and a wonderful time of fellowship and fun. Adults were entertained by a fully stocked bar staffed by Southern Tapsters Bar Service with three TABC Certified bartenders. Music was provided by Time of Your Life DJ’s for dancing and listening pleasure.

Truly a family event, a barbecue din ner with all the fixin’s was catered by Smokey Mo’s BBQ with chicken nuggets and Mac-N-Cheese provided by ChickFil-A. A large inflatable “Sports Stadium Combo” from Jumps for Joy of New Braunfels, a Kona Ice Truck for Snow Cone treats, cornhole, a backyard swing-set, and a large well-lit yard for running and playing. Teens from Top Cats Dance Team of Canyon Middle School were hired to keep all that youthful exuberance from getting out of hand while parents found spots to sit and visit as they watched the children interact and make new friends.

After dinner, a variety of dessert op

tions were available on a self-serve dessert and coffee bar. For a quiet and relaxing break from the party, southern gentlemen (and ladies) were offered a cigar bar by the pool where many were able to partake of a leisurely after-dinner smoke. -cmw

One day only

Once a year, United Tool & Fasten er hosts a “One-Day Sale.” This year’s event was held on Nov. 9 with over 100 people in attendance.

“This is a great opportunity for our customers to save some money on the products they need,” says Vice President of Sales John Calhoun

Each year, United Tool invites six to 10 vendors to participate in its annual blowout sale, offering United’s custom

ers special deals on various products. Dis playing and demonstrating their hottest items, Southwire Tool & Equipment, Werner Fall Protection, DeWalt, Protec tive Industrial Products (PIP), MetalT ech, and LIFT Industrial Safety Center were all in attendance.

United Tool & Fastener’s customers were treated to a delicious fajita lunch with all the trimmings. - cmw

Frank Devine, MetalTech Scaffolds demonstrates MetalTech’s new mobile scaffold at United Tool & Fasteners’ One Day Sale on Nov. 9.

L-R: Rob Stewart and George Tilotta

Guests enjoy a fabulous evening celebrating Main Glass’ 40 years in business

Mr. & Mrs. Ryan Kessler, Malitz Construction

HOLT Round Up in Waco was a very special day for the company, employees and customers. The event was held at the HOLT Manufacturing and Rebuild Center in Waco, Texas on Thurs. Oct. 27.

People from all over the state attended this large gathering where they could see and learn about the ex panding number of divisions that makeup the HOLT family of companies.

Food and entertainment a plenty were available to guests at the event. A barbecue dinner was served as the stage became active with musical artists which fea tured The Randy Rogers Band as the closing act.

Comments from attendees were very positive be cause this one event was able to show the depth of the HOLT family of companies for the construction industry.

-bd

HOLT CAT®

The largest Caterpillar® Equipment dealer in the United States serving 118 Texas counties spanning from the Red River to the Rio Grande. www.holtcat.com

TEXAS First Rentals®

A leading construction equipment rental company. www.texasfirstrentals.com

The legacy continues

HOLT Truck Centers®

Provides rebuilds, service and parts for all makes and models of on-highway trucks, RV’s and trailers through out Texas and Oklahoma. They also have a large invento ry of new and used vehicles and equipment. www.holttruckcenters.com

HOLT Manufacturing

Designs, engineers and produces a full line of Spray King® water tanks. www.holtmfg.com

HOLT Crane & Equipment®

Authorized dealer for Magni Telescopic Handlers, Vita Inclinata’s Load Stability System® and Link-Belt Crane. www.holtcrane.com

HOLT Used

Sells quality used equipment including loaders, excava tors, forklifts, water trucks and more. All equipment is supplied by the HOLT Family of Companies. www.holtused.com

HOLT Renewables

Provided solar design, engineering, procurement, con struction and maintenance to help customers achieve energy savings and meet their renewable energy goals. www.holt renewables.com

HOLT Industrial Systems

One of the largest independent air compressor distribu tors of Sullair’s full line of stationary and portable indus trial air compressors. www.holt industrialsystems.com

SITECH

Tejas

Provides reliable construction technology systems to civil engineering and construction contractors.

Kardie Equipment (TGM Wind Services)

The leading North American distributor of the Bronto Skylift, a truck-mounted aerial work platform. www.kardieequipment.com

Global Operator Challenge winner demonstration

John Schiedeck won the North American Regional Finals of the Global Operator Challenge. This was the third round of the Caterpillar 2022/2023 Global Operator Challenge. He will go on to represent HOLT CAT at the finals at CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2023 on March 14, 2023, in Las Vegas.

NIKOLA Tre Battery Electric Vehicle

John Schiedeck Regional Finals Champ

HOLT Renewable Energy from the sun

HOLT Truck Centers

HOLT Industrial Rentals

Dinner and music

Randy Rogers Band

The photos below are of the HOLT Manufacturing and Rebuild Center

Welcome to the HOLT Round Up

Celebrating 30

It’s been three years since Terracon Consultants Inc. held its annual Client

Appreciation Party & Casino Night. The last one was Terracon’s version of Okto berfest, Terrafest, in 2019 before the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. Once again, friends, clients, and associates of Terracon Consultants Inc. filled a newly renovated Aggie Park for Terracon’s 9th Annual Client Appreciation & Casino Night. The festive affair celebrating Ter racon’s 30 years in San Antonio was held on Oct. 27. Over 300 of Terracon’s friends attended this year’s event.

Food, drinks, music, casino games, and a complimentary shoeshine were available for guests to enjoy. Six vendors including UTSA’s Success Center were on

hand to display their services. Additional ly, the vendors provided door prizes and gave a quick elevator speech at the draw ing of their donations.

A fundraiser held to benefit the ACE Mentor Program raised $2,100 through sponsor donations and other donations at the party.

Everyone had a great time winning raffle prizes, trying their luck at the gam ing tables, and enjoying the delicious spread catered by Chuy’s. -cmw

Casino game winners:

1st Place: April Singer

2nd Place: Art Villarreal

3rd Place: Mirta Hernandez

Sr. Principal, Vice President, South Texas Regional Manager, San Antonio Office Manager Chuck Gregory addresses the Terracon guests and thanks them for attending.

ACCOUNTING

Estate Planning 2022 and Beyond

Barbara L. Herbs Shareholder Fisher, Herbst

People tend to focus their tax planning around the here and now. How can they reduce their tax liabili ty this year or next year? Some think further ahead to retirement. What can they do today to reduce their current tax liability but also save for the retirement lifestyle they desire? However, very few consider the potential estate tax implications of passing their assets to their heirs. For some, it is an uncomfortable topic to discuss. For others, they don’t think they will have an “estate tax problem”.

There’s no doubt most people don’t consider these potential estate tax impli cations because we have enjoyed the benefit of historically high gift, estate and generation-skipping transfer tax ex clusion amounts since January 1, 2018. The exclusion amount represents the to tal value you can pass to your heirs free of gift, estate and generation-skipping transfer tax. If the value of assets trans ferred exceeds the exclusion amount, your estate pays taxes on that excess val ue at the transfer tax rate. The 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act raised the exclusion amount from $5,490,000 per person for transfers occurring before January 1, 2018 to $11,180,000 per person for trans fers occurring on or after January 1, 2018. This increase has been indexed for infla tion each year since. In 2022, a person can transfer up to $12,060,000 in asset value to their heirs free of gift, estate and generation-skipping transfer tax. In 2023, this exclusion amount is set to be $12,920,000. So you may be thinking, what’s the big deal?

These historically high exclusion amounts are at risk. There were a couple of hard pushes by some Washington law makers in 2021 to push the cap downone push for $5,000,000 per person and another push for $3,500,000 per person. Although these proposals were not suc cessfully legislated in 2021, it does show that eliminating these high exclusion amounts is definitely on the radar of some of our legislators. Couple this with the push to raise the gift, estate and gen eration-skipping transfer tax rate from the top current rate of 40% to as high as 65%, it is obvious that some lawmakers want to severely limit the ability of peo ple to transfer their assets.

Here’s the real catch. If our leaders in Washington want the exclusion amount to drop back down to $5,000,000 per per son, all they have to do is wait it out for the next three years and pass no legisla tion on it at all. That’s because under cur rent tax law, the gift, estate and genera tion-skipping transfer tax exclusion amount will revert back to $5,000,000 (indexed for inflation) per person on Jan uary 1, 2026. That’s a substantial drop in the ability to pass assets to heirs – espe cially when you compound the impact of increasing property values. While many people will still fall below this reduced exclusion cap, the potential for this cap to sneak up on people and leave them ill prepared grows significantly.

The good news is a three year win dow does provide some time for estate planning. However, you should act soon er rather than later. Effective estate plan ning should be done with thoughtful ness and care under the guidance of trusted advisors. It will involve compiling a list of all of your assets and assessing their value. It will also involve evaluating a potential need for family limited part nerships and/or trusts, finding the prop er balance of income maintenance while potentially making lifetime gifts to heirs, evaluating the pros and cons of making gifts in light of transfer basis versus step up basis and assessing goals to make sure assets are passed to heirs as desired. These are just a few examples of the questions and challenges to be ad dressed along the way. Even if you are not currently ready to execute a plan, you can begin the process so that you and your advisor have a plan ready to ex ecute when needed.

While you are working on your over all estate plan, there are some less com plicated things you might execute soon er under the guidance of your advisor. One of the most powerful tools over looked is the use of the annual gift tax exclusion. This exclusion allows you to gift a maximum value to a person each year free of gift tax and without the need to file a gift tax return. The annual gift tax exclusion amount for 2022 is $16,000 and is set to increase to $17,000 in 2023. Incorporating this annual gift tax exclu sion in to your overall estate plan can be an effective way to transfer assets and is a smart way to help preserve your estate tax exclusion amount.

As you can see, good estate plan ning takes time and consideration. With the help of your advisor, you can develop a plan to accomplish your goals and help you preserve your assets for your heirs. Just remember that January 1, 2026 date so that exclusion amount reduction doesn’t sneak up on you. Getting started now versus later could make a substan tial difference in whether or not you have an “estate tax problem”.

Barbara L. Herbst, CPA, Shareholder, is a graduate of Texas Lutheran University and holds a Bachelor of Business Adminis tration degree in Accounting. She has 23 years of experience in public accounting. Her focus is on tax planning and compli ance for corporations, partnerships, trusts, limited liability companies and individuals. Barbara can be reached at 210-614-2284.

INSURANCE

Protect Your Most Valuable Tools, Your Hands!

Darren Meyer, Risk Consultant HUB International San Antonio, TX

Most of us take for granted the simple use, yet high functionality of our hands. It’s not until we break a finger, dislocate a thumb, or lacerate the palm of our hand that we realize how much we rely on our hands; not only for work, but our day-to-day function. Think about it for a moment; just this morning, you probably poured a cup of coffee, made yourself a sandwich, tied a pair of boots, opened your car or truck door, fastened your seatbelt, and adjusted the radio; all with the simple use of your hands.

Now apply that to your vocation; on the jobsite there are employees operat ing miter saws, turning screwdrivers, us ing drill drivers, carrying 2x4s, and laying bricks. Nearly every task on the jobsite, requires some use of the hands.

All that said, if you lose the use of any functionality of a hand or finger, even if temporary, your livelihood can be sub stantially affected.

There are many exposures to your hands on the jobsite; these include pinch points, vibration, crushing, chemical, heat and cold, force, and impact.

Some of the most common hand in juries I see in my work as a risk manage ment consultant are a direct result of one or more of the above exposures. Without protecting your hands you are drastically increasing the risk of fractures, disloca tions, amputations, burns, degloving, and lacerations.

Fractures are typically consistent with falls. One of the most common ex posures to falls on the jobsite Is poor housekeeping. When we trip and fall, it is instinctual to put our hands out to catch ourselves. The impact from the fall com monly leads to a fractured wrist and even a broken finger. Construction sites are full of trip hazards; that said, we should do what we can to keep our immediate workspace clean.

Dislocation exposures are like frac tures. Impacting some hard surface with our fingertip can easily result in a disloca tion. Simply, a dislocation is when one bone in a joint is displaced and often won’t return to the normal position with out some sort of external force. A com monly overlooked dislocation risk is throwing and catching hard sided and/or items like bricks and sandbags. Again, good housekeeping in your workspace is a great way to mitigate dislocations. Also, instead of throwing and catching items, take the time to hand them to each other.

Amputations typically occur during the use of heavy-duty cutting tools such as chop saws. Amputations can also oc cur at heavy pinch points. It is crucial that all machine guards are adequately placed for protection.

Burns aren’t limited to hot surfaces but can be from chemicals too. The prop er handling of chemicals per the manu facturers’ Safety Data Sheets is critical to mitigating burns. Another exposure to burns is the sun! Keep an eye out for sun exposure and protect your hands appro priately.

Degloving is common when snags occur. If you are wearing a wedding band and it catches a moving part, or you’re walking and you snag your ring on a bolt

PPE

Metal mesh, leather, canvas

Fabric and fabric coated Rubber Insulated www.lossfreerx.com

it can quite easily rip the skin off your fin ger (if it doesn’t take your finger, too!). This also goes for wrist watches. Deglov ing is a painful, and quite serious injury, simply due to the exposure of infection. I’ve seen the aftermath of degloving, and it looks just like it sounds; a removal of the skin from the muscle and bone, just like removing a glove. Put your rings and metal banded watches in your lunchbox or leave them in your vehicle. If you need to wear a ring, wear a silicon band. If they snag they simply tear off, and leave your skin attached to your hand.

Lacerations are probably the most common injuries on the jobsite. We get cut from blades and sharp edged materi als. One method of protecting our hands from lacerations is blade guarding. Too often I see cutting tools used improperly and stored incorrectly (e.g. razor blades left open on a workbench).

The simplest method of protecting our hands on the jobsite is avoiding work that is risky to our hands. Now, we can’t expect to make a living by avoiding risky tasks, so we need to protect our hands while we operate equipment and handle materials.

The most obvious personal protec tive equipment, or PPE for your hands is gloves. See the chart below for proper glove selection and use. The key is to fol low the manufacturer’s guidelines for your tools and equipment. If you’re han dling chemicals, read and understand the safety data sheets (below)

When you choose your gloves, first ensure they are appropriate to the task. In some cases an employee may need to have multiple types of gloves because they perform many different duties. Also, ensure they don’t create a greater hazard. If the gloves are too loose, they can easily get caught in equipment or snag sharp objects.

Inspect your gloves before every use! Ensure they are functional, there are no rips or loose threads, they aren’t coted with a material that can cause them to break down (i.e. solvent).

If you’re an employer who requires gloves for certain tasks, make sure your employees know how to access new gloves.

A few more tips; keep your work space clear of debris, know your tools, know your materials. Protect your liveli hood by protecting your hands.

Darren Meyer is a risk consultant with HUB International, the world’s fifth largest insurance broker. Darren has 11 years of workplace safety experience in many indus tries including aircraft handling, heavy manufacturing, transportation, and hospi tality.

Benefits

Protection against burns, chemical burns, biological hazards, irritation, and dermatitis (depending on the specific glove)

Protection against cuts, abrasions, punctures, and burns

Protection against dirt and abrasions

Protection against cuts, punctures and abrasions

Protection againsst extreme heat or cold

& Kemble, P.C. San Antonio, TX

LEGAL

Recent Texas Supreme Court Decisions Impacting the Practice of Construction Law

The

James Construction Group, LLC v. West lake Chemical Corporation, 650 S.W.3d 392, 396 (Tex. 2022), reh’g denied (Sept. 2, 2022).

In James Construction Group, LLC v. West lake Chemical Corporation, a divided Tex as Supreme Court held that generally, a party’s substantial compliance with con tractual notice conditions is sufficient to satisfy those conditions, but when a con tract mandates written notice, a writing is required to comply with that condition, substantially or otherwise. The Court also held that an intervention provision can not be employed as an end-run around the more stringent requirements of the contract’s termination-for-default provi sion; and that a clause stating “no claim shall be made” for consequential damag es functions solely as a waiver of liability for consequential damages, not a cove nant not to sue for those damages.

Signature Indus. Services, LLC v. Int’l Pa per Co., 638 S.W.3d 179 (Tex. 2022).

In Signature Industrial Services, LLC v. Inter national Paper Company, the Texas Su preme Court held that an indemnity agreement between an owner and a con tractor was rendered ineffective by the Anti-Indemnity Act, which forbids cer tain construction contracts from requir ing an indemnitor to indemnify an in demnitee for “a claim caused by the . . . fault . . . or the breach of contract of the indemnitee[.]” The Court held that the statute does not require factual inquiry into the “true” cause of the plaintiff’s inju ries. Rather, absent fraud or some other unusual circumstance, examining the pleadings will generally be a sufficient basis to determine whether the “claim” at issue was “caused by” the fault or breach of contract of the party seeking indemni fication. The Court also held that the con tractor was not entitled to recover conse quential damages, as the principal dam ages sought (the decline in the contrac tor’s market value) were not foreseeable to the owner at the time the contract was made, and the contractor had not other wise proven recoverable consequential damages with reasonable certainty.

SandRidge Energy, Inc. v. Barfield, 642 S.W.3d 560 (Tex. 2022).

In SandRidge Energy, Inc. v. Barfield, the Texas Supreme Court held that a property owner owes no duty to warn of open and obvious hazards under Chap ter 95 of the Texas Civil Practice and Rem edies Code. The statute requires an own er with actual knowledge of a dangerous condition to “adequately warn” contrac tors of the condition when the owner ex ercises control over the work being per formed. Consistent with the general rule at common law, a property owner does not fail to adequately warn a plaintiff un der Chapter 95 when the dangerous con dition is demonstrably open and obvi ous.

Energen Res. Corp. v. Wallace, 642 S.W.3d 502 (Tex. 2022).

In Energen Resources Corporation v. Wal lace, the Texas Supreme Court held that

Chapter 95 of the Texas Civil Practice and Remedies Code applies even when al leged negligence at an improvement other than the one on which the plaintiff was working contributes to the plaintiff’s injuries. In determining Chapter 95’s ap plicability, the relevant question is whether negligence involving the “con dition or use” of the improvement on which the plaintiff was working was a cause of the plaintiff’s damages. Even if negligence elsewhere contributed to the plaintiff’s injuries, negligence at the im provement need not be the “only cause” of the plaintiff’s damages for the statute to apply.

Maxim Crane Works, L.P. v. Zurich Am. Ins. Co., 642 S.W.3d 551 (Tex. 2022).

Finally, in Maxim Crane Works, L.P. v. Zu rich American Insurance Company, the Texas Supreme Court held that the word “employee” in section 151.103 of the An ti-Indemnity Act bears its common, ordi nary meaning, which is unaffected by whether the indemnitor and injured em ployee are considered “statutory co-em ployees” for the purpose of the Texas Workers’ Compensation Act (TWCA). Sec tion 151.103 is a statutory “employee” ex ception that allows an indemnitor to pro vide indemnity or additional-insured coverage against claims by its employ ees, agents, and subcontractors. The Court rejected the argument that the word “employee” in section 151.103 of the Anti-Indemnity Act should be inter preted to include any person or entity that the TWCA would treat as an employ ee of the indemnitor, explaining, “the TWCA does not affect the enforceability of an additional-insured provision under the [Anti-Indemnity Act].”

Peter B. Wells is a principal in Cokinos | Young’s Houston office. For the past fifteen years, Peter has developed a range of legal experience encompassing a wide array of commercial litigation matters in the ener gy, construction, and financial services in dustries where he has resolved disputes across the country before various courts and arbitration forums. He has had the for tunate opportunity to work with some of the largest banks, insurers, and bro ker-dealers in the country as well as with smaller “mom and pop” businesses, and yet his approach to achieving the best result for his clients does not change. Peter works closely with his clients to establish the most effective and cost-efficient strategy for ev ery matter, and he is committed to working hard every day to ensure the client’s goals are achieved.

Kristen Wheeler is an associate attorney in the Houston office of Cokinos | Young. Her practice primarily focuses on construction law and commercial litigation, represent ing residential, commercial, and industrial construction clients. She also has experi ence in employment related disputes, in cluding non-competition and trade secret issues.

For more information, visit: https://www.cokinoslaw.com/

OSHA Electronic Injury Submission

Joann Natarajan Compliance Assistance Specialist OSHA Austin, TX

OSHA requires employers in construc tion with an establishment with 20 or more employees, to electronically sub mit Form 300A Annual Summary infor mation once a year to OSHA. Employers would submit annually electronically on the osha.gov website between January 2 and March 2 of each year. In 2023, OSHA will transition from the osha.gov website to the public’s one account access to gov ernment applications at login.gov.  All current and new account holders must connect their ITA account to a Login.gov account with the same email address to access the application for the 2023 collec tion of Calendar Year 2022 Form 300A data.

Many employers with more than ten employees are required to keep a record of serious work-related injuries and ill nesses and are required to enter cases on the OSHA 300 log form. Construction employers are required to maintain the OSHA 300 form if they employ ten or more workers in a calendar year. Minor injuries requiring first aid only do not need to be recorded. The requirement to submit data to OSHA is triggered when an employer has twenty or more workers associated with an employer’s physical establishment location.

The electronic reporting require ments are based on the size of the estab lishment, not the firm. The OSHA injury and illness records are maintained at the establishment level. An establishment is defined as a single physical location where business is conducted or where services or industrial operations are per formed. A firm may be comprised of one

or more establishments. To determine if you need to provide OSHA with the re quired data for an  establishment, you need to determine the establishment’s peak employment during the last calen dar year. Each individual employed in the establishment at any time during the cal endar year counts as one employee, in cluding full-time, part-time, seasonal, and temporary workers.

The electronic reporting require ments are based on the industry classifi cation of the establishment, not the in dustry classification of the firm. An estab lishment is defined as a single physical location where business is conducted or where services or industrial operations are performed. A firm may be comprised of one or more establishments.

If you have not submitted your cal endar year 2021 data into the OSHA inju ry tracking application, you can submit data until December 31, 2022 at https:// www.osha.gov/injuryreporting/. After December 31, 2022 data will be submit ted at login.gov.

Detailed instructions on linking the old osha.gov account and the new login. gov account, please review the following guidance on how to connect your ac counts:

https://www.osha.gov/sites/default/ files/02-create-login.gov-account.pdf

Employers must continue to report any worker fatality within 8 hours and any amputation, loss of an eye, or hospi talization of a worker within 24 hours.

natarajan.joann@dol.gov 512-374-0271 x232

Peter B. Wells, Principal Kristen Wheeler, Associate Cokinos|Young Houston, TX

Supreme Court of Texas issued numerous opinions this year having an impact on construction law, addressing subjects varying from the standard for proving compliance with express contractual conditions precedent to the Texas Anti-Indemni ty Act, Chapter 151 of the Texas Insurance Code. Several are noted below.

Jonathan Rogero had many interests growing up, but the calling to enter the construction industry was strong. After all, when both parents are heavily involved in construction, it’s hard to ig nore the lure.

Where did you grow up?

I was born in Corpus Christi but moved to Houston when I was two years old. We lived there until coming to San Antonio in 1989. I have called this home ever since.

What were your interests growing up?

I was into playing most sports, in cluding BMX and Motocross. I also en joyed history and archeology.

Do you have any siblings? Are they in volved in construction?

I have two stepsisters and a step brother. However, only my stepbrother, Trey Acock, is in the Alpha business as the IT director.

What did your parents do?

Both of my parents worked here at Alpha. My stepfather retired 15 years ago, and my mother is soon to retire. She is currently the firm’s CEO.

Did you go to college? What did you major in?

I went to San Antonio College and St. Phillips, where I studied Criminal Justice

and Construction Project Management. I also went through ABC’s apprenticeship program which led to a journeyman car pentry certificate. Finally, I was able to use work credit to help get a BS in Busi ness Management from Wayland Baptist here in San Antonio.

When did you start in the construc tion industry?

When I was seven years old, my fa ther began taking me to work at NASA JSC, and to keep me busy I would fill the materials bins for the craftsmen. In 1993, I formally began working for Alpha as a general laborer but was also installing laminate floors for my neighbors and friends as a side hustle.

What was your first year in the con struction industry like?

During my first year in construction, as a general laborer, I learned a lot about brooms and shovels. It was very hum bling; company trucks, phones, and overtime were not things you expected as folks do today. I did, however, discover my love for having something tangible accomplished by the end of each day. There are days that I miss the simplicity of that time.

What was it like working with your mother, Kathleen Acock?

I didn’t work directly with her until around 2008 when I moved into the cor porate office. Even then, my boss was the EVP, and my job was operations based. In 2014 when I became President and Kathy took the CEO’s position, things changed dramatically with us. We had to learn to communicate the business’s best inter est while putting family dynamics aside. I learned that she knew far more about being an executive and the face of the company than I did. I do not pretend to match her leadership expertise or the stamp she has put on Alpha, but I strive daily for it. I am grateful that she has al lowed me to make this my vision and has given me the support and council that is helping me shape that vision into reality.

Are you married? What is your spouse’s name? How did you meet? Is your spouse involved in the compa ny? What does your spouse do?

I am not married.

Do you have any children? Tell me about them.

I have a stepdaughter from a previ ous marriage. She is 26 and married with a three-year-old son.

What are your interests and hobbies outside of work?

I enjoy going to the coast in my RV. I coach a bunch of five to six-year-olds in T-Ball. My sports jam is college football and major league baseball. Go Aggies, Astros, and Texans!

What is the greatest part of your job? What is the hardest part of your job?

Knowing that you consistently satis fy your clients is the best part of my job because it takes the whole company to make that a natural and predictable trait. I work with the most awesome people who “create great environments where great things happen” for our clients.

The hardest part has been adjusting staffing or specific clients or markets due to COVID. We are a very tight group, so it affects us profoundly seeing one of our team members or long-term clients go.

What do you do to relax?

To relax, I hook up the RV and head to the beach.

As your mother readies for retire ment, what is next for you and Alpha Building Corp?

I am of Hispanic origin, so Alpha will

change from a woman-owned to a mi nority-owned company. This opens spe cific opportunities on the public side of the business. Alpha has also intentionally been diversifying over the last few years from the public sector to adding benefi cial private sector opportunities. So, people might be surprised at some of the projects we will be building.

What is the one thing you would like people to know about Jonathan Rog ero?

I enjoy what we do as an industry. I can’t imagine getting as much pleasure out of any other career. It’s fulfilling to create great spaces where I can take my kid and grandkid and be proud of Al pha’s accomplishments over three gen erations. -cmw

The San Antonio Construction News (ISSN 1547-7630) is published monthly by Construction News LTD., dba San Antonio Construction News, and distributed by mail to construction-related companies of record in Bexar and 7 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 San Antonio 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.

©2022 Construction News, Ltd.

Rogero recognizes Kathy Acock’s 45th anniversary at Alpha’s annual employee awards ceremony.

A century of service V V

Nunnelly General Contractor had much to celebrate on Oct. 25th as the San Antonio iconic firm formally celebrated its 100th year in business. Founded as F.A. Nunnelly General Contractor, the century-old company announced its rebranding to Nunnelly General Contractor. Current owner leadership Blaine Beckman and Greg Vaughn emceed the program. Members of the Nunnelly family including Doug, Philip, and Scott Nunnelly accompanied by their wives and family were all in attendance. Beckman noted, “this celebration is not only for Nunnelly as a company and the Nunnelly family but is also to recognize our business partners that have enabled our success for 100 years.”

Over 400 guests attended this festive event held at the Mays Family Center at the Witte Museum. Clients, architects, trade partners, family, and friends from throughout the industry joined the celebration. Guests were treated to a fabulous dinner, drinks, and the musical talents of Nashville artists Brent Michael Woods and Dave Fenley (Finalist of The Voice and America’s Got Talent Award Shows). -cmw

L-R: Greg Vaughn, Doug & Molly Nunnelly, Scott & Vanessa Nunnelly, Philip & Amy Nunnelly, and Blaine Beckman

Hunting With Kids

by Capt. Steve Schultz Sponsored by:

It’s a cool fall day here at the Chaparrosa Ranch in Zavala County as I write this col umn. What a change from the reflecting wa ter of the Laguna Madre and Baffin Bay to the brush country of South Texas. I really enjoy this time off the water as we transition to cooler weather and the end of boating season. Hunt ing season is another great way to spend time in the outdoors with family and friends. I can still remember hearing campfire stories shared by my dad and his friends. Those times were a huge part of my childhood and I enjoy sharing them with my kids today.

Like most fathers who love to hunt, my hope has always been to share my passion for deer hunting and enjoying the great out doors with my children. I know too many hunters whose kids have grown up with little or no interest in following in their parents’ footsteps when it comes to pursuing shoot ing sports, and I have often wondered what separates those kids who develop the pas sion from those who don’t. While there’s no guaranteed formula for getting and keeping our kids involved in hunting, there are cer tainly things we can do as a parent or mentor to increase the odds of them developing that lifelong passion.

Regardless of the child’s age, the early days afield with you are probably the most critical in determining whether or not he/she maintains an interest in hunting. These first hunts, like any first impression, are where the child is going to form their opinion about hunting. They are either going to decide that hunting is fun and enjoyable or that it is bor ing. So, it is your job to make sure it’s fun!

Probably the first step to ensuring that a child’s first hunt is not their last is to keep the initial outings brief. As a parent, you’ve proba bly already witnessed just how short an atten tion span most kids have these days, and the last thing they want to do is go sit in a blind or a treestand for hours on end, not being able to move around or talk. In most cases, you’ll have a pretty good idea when it’s time to head back, as most kids won’t hesitate to let you know when they start to get bored. I would get questions like, “How long are we going to stay out here?” or “Are we going to sit in this spot the whole time?” When my son was try ing to be a little more subtle about things, he would simply ask what time it was.

For my kids to remain interested in hunt ing, I knew they would have to taste some suc cess. Once they saw me harvest a deer or shoot a limit of dove they became more en gaged. As they grew older and started shoot ing small caliber guns we started off on rab bits, squirrels and dove to keep the busy with plenty of shooting time. Then we move on to deer hunting. The ranch I guide on has plenty of opportunities to shoot does and cull bucks. Sure, I would love to see them shoot a nice buck, but first I wanted them to experience the excitement of having an animal come in and present a shot opportunity. Once they ex perienced that first taste of success with a nice buck, both of my boys were hooked. They no longer minds spending a little time waiting because he knows that sooner or later an op portunity will present itself, and he knows the rush he gets when it does.

Would like to wish all my clients and read ers a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! My 2023 fishing calendar is open, so if you have a date in mind shoot me a text. I’m also booking South Texas whitetail hunts for the coming season. Don’t wait till all the good dates are gone! To schedule your next bay fishing or hunting trip give Capt. Steve Schultz a call at 361-813-3716 or e-mail me at Steve SchultzOutdoors@gmail.com.

Good luck and Good Fishing.

Waypoint Marine/Waypoint Customs, Shoalwater Boats, Mercury Marine, Shimano Reels, E-Z Bel Construction, Costa Sunglasses, Simms Fishing, Columbia Sportswear, ForEverlast Fishing Products, PowerPro, Interstate Batteries, MirrOlure, JL Marines Power-Pole, and AFTCO Clothing.

Trevor Boatright and his son Trip hunted hard for the beautiful 11pt. buck that scored 158” and field dressed 170 lbs. Trevor has been hunting and fishing with Steve Schultz Outdoors for over 10 years.

Early in November, Connor Schultz was able to catch up to this 10 pt. cull deer we had been searching for. Connor use a 6.5 PRC to drop the deer at 160yds on the Chaparrosa Ranch in Zavala County.

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

How do you know it’s fall in Texas?

We all know how weird the weath er is here in Texas! We don’t seem to get definite seasons like some places do. Two weeks ago, I was still waiting until late afternoon to mow so it wouldn’t be so hot and this morning, I walked the dogs with frost sparkling on the grass, wickedly happy that the grass will stop growing now! I guess that means autumn is here!

Acorns are pinging off the tin roof tops and the deer are coming to eat them. Pecans are falling and any nice evening you see folks poking around in the leaves under the trees to collect them for holi day goodies.

The first batch of fresh fried venison hits the dinner table! While some might fuss about Bambi’s passing, the rest of the family is appreciatively chowing down, thankful for the hunter’s success and the cook’s skill.

Yep, it’s fall!

Fall affects fishing too. The first thing you notice is that the lake is a lot quieter now. There’s not such a line at the launch ing ramp. Now you can catch fish without two other boats making a bee line for your fishing spot. It’s pretty much all yours now. Sure, you have to keep your eye on the weather and choose your days wisely, but even as the native species of freshwater fish might be slowing down for winter, the stripers and hybrids are just starting to get comfortable as the wa ter cools down. Since stripers are native to cold water, they really thrive in the winter. They are very active, feeding hard to pre pare to spawn in the spring. Trade in your shorts and flip-flops for a nice jacket and a set of binoculars so you can spot birds

working on top of feeding schools of stripers and hybrids and fish feeding on top water.

If you do decide to concentrate on winter stuff like hunting and football and holidays, be sure you take time to put your boat up for the winter. Now is the time to take it to the shop to have any little glitches taken care of and get it winterized. You will be glad you did when nice spring weather gets here and all you need to do is hitch up your rig and go. It’s a lot easier to get your repairs done this time of year than in the spring when everybody else discovers their motor won’t start. The last thing you need is to have your first time out next year ruined by clogged fuel lines and such.

It looks like our winter fishing here on Buchanan should be good. The lake is 18 ft low here, so there is less water for the fish to hide in! Keep an eye on the levels of your favorite fishing places. Un less we get some good heavy rain, you may have to look for different places to launch.

I hope you and yours have joyous holidays! As always, if you want to enter tain holiday guests with a fishing trip give us a call at 325-379-2051!

On

Pheasants of South Dakota

Tollette’s first year to experience the thrill of pheasant hunting in South Dakota.

On the first day, 17 birds were harvested – five from the Texas boys of which Tollette harvested two himself. The second day yielded only 14 birds, for of which were harvest ed by the Texas boys. Again, Tollette harvested two.

After shooting so many birds, the Texas boys were curious if they would be wel comed back. Dufner quickly stated that “they’re a lot easier to hit than dove.” -cmw

Texas coast fishing

L-R: Hunter Moeller and his brother, Daniel Moeller, caught two oversized “big ugly” black drum.

In mid-October, Alpha Insulation & Waterproofing treated a few folks from Bart lett Cocke General Contractors to a fishing trip for some good Texas coastal fish ing. Everyone had a great time, and the fishing was above par. - cmw

Bartlett Cocke’s Kirby Coats caught a personal best, a 24-inch flounder.

Oct. 27, Virtual Builders Exchange ’s CEO Michael Tollette hit the road driving up to South Dakota for a two-day pheasant hunt. After 16 hours on the road, Tollette arrived at Rosebud Indian Reservation, part of the Sioux Indian Nation, where he met 17 others for the hunt. Fifteen of the hunters were from Kansas, while Tollette and one other, former Builders Exchange employee Micah Dufner, were from Texas. While the others have been going on this annual hunt for 20-plus years, this was

In the last minutes of daylight, the great hunters take a group pic as proof to their wives that they really did spend the weekend hunting and not just gambling in the Indian Casinos.

L-R: Michael Tollette, Micah Dufner, Jon Cross, and Christine Cross

Michael Tollette with one of his four harvested pheasants Micah Dufner shows his harvest from the first day of hunting

Celebrating 70

The Mechanical Contractors Association Sheet Metal & Air Conditioning National Association (MCA-SMACNA) of San Antonio celebrated its 70th anniversary on Nov. 7 at the Greater San Antonio Builders Association’s ballroom. Over 200 people attended the evening’s festivities which included cocktails, a delicious buffet dinner, casino games, and prizes. -cmw

The 31st annual Shootin’ for Scholar ships clay shoot was held on Sept. 24 at the National Shooting Com plex. Doug and Cindy Niznik with Patti Gamez of Niznik Concrete, organize the shoot every year to raise money for schol arships.

“We have the best sponsors in Tex as,” Doug Niznik boasted. “We can’t do this without you. A huge thank you to our wonderful hosts Johnston Industries, Lynwood Building Materials Inc., T&D Moravits, Niznik Concrete Contractors, and our gracious sponsors Suncoast Post Tension, Great Northwest Concrete,

Scholarship shooting

American Roofing & Metal, Capital Pumping, FO Foundations Inc., Mesa Equipment Company, Traugott Inc. Painting & Decorating, Kelly Durham Family, Nolhan Services LLC , Durham Real Estate, and CK Lawn Services.”

Construction companies in various trades sponsor youths ages 18 and younger to participate in the shoot. This year, $22,700 in scholarships was present ed. After a two-year hiatus due to the COVID pandemic, it was great seeing ev eryone coming out to support such a great cause. Mark your calendars for next year’s shoot which will be August 5, 2023.

Shooting winners:

1st Place Youth High Girl: Madison Brown

1st Place Youth High Boy: Carson Shultz –

Shutlz won and passed down to Jett Smothers

1st Place Class A Youth: Madison Brown, 96

1st Place Class B Youth: Garrett Johnson, 86

1st Place Class C Youth: Zain Niznik, 73

1st Place Pro Division: Tricia Kocurek

1st Place Hunter Division: Martell Adams

1st Place Ladies Division: Jodi Schultz

Scholarship winners:

Madison Brown, $3,850

Carson Shultz, $3,040

Jett Smothers, $2,500

Michael Eisenhower, $2,500

Sam Sander, $2,500

Marley Perez, $2,500 Maddie Barber, $2,500

Kennedy Thompson, $2,500 Kaylie Beckham, $810.00

Go big or gourd home

Gary Thompson

Zain Niznik

Madison

Jodi Schultz

Tricia Kocurek

Quality Fence & Welding

Alterman – Schertz

Monica Silver’s, Evil Satterfield & Pontikes backhoe

Allied Fire Protection

University of Texas San Antonio School of Data Science

The first of its kind in the state of Tex as, UTSA’s School of Data Science offers data-intensive degree pro grams and research across every disci pline. The school’s world-class facility will work in tandem with hundreds of stu dents to discover, teach, learn, and use

data science and analytics for positive societal and economic impact.

The project located in downtown San Antonio, Big State Electric Ltd. worked as an electrical design-assist trade partner under The Whiting-Turner Contracting Company to build the 6-sto

ry 165,000sf project with a project crew topping 60 electricians. The project houses faculty, laboratory, and data cen ter spaces with normal, stand-by, and un interruptable power distribution sys tems.

Using the design-assist construction

model, a strong collaboration between design consultants and trade partners re sulted in the completion of an aggressive construction schedule while maintaining an early commitment to the owner’s bud get. In addition, the team was challenged to build using innovative means and methods. Building Information Model ling (BIM) and a large effort to execute offsite prefabrication challenged the construction teams to assure a safe and productive working environment while maintaining a high level of quality con trol.

Big State Electric provides electrical in stallation services. -cmw

Big State Electric San Antonio, TX

Ultimate Top Drives

After deciding to expand its foot print to San Antonio, Ultimate Top Drives which specializes in redefin ing hunting and safari vehicles into the safest, most enjoyable, and most effec tive hunting vehicles ever conceived had to find a location suitable for their needs. Once the location was secured in Sel ma, White Rock Construction was con tracted by Trusted General Contracting to complete the renovations. The project consisted of the demolition of the exist ing flooring, ceiling, millwork, walls, toi

lets, and sinks.

White Rock began their portion of the work in June with the demolition of 700sf of flooring and ceilings. One hun dred feet of the walls were demoed to make allowance for 250 feet of new in cluding a firewall. New ceilings, flooring, millwork, toilets, and sinks were installed and ready for the owner to take posses sion a month later.

White Rock Construction is an interior finish-out contractor. -cmw

White Rock Construction San Antonio, TX

UTSA School of Data Science

UPS Room

San Pedro Creek Culture Park

As the electrical contractor for the San Pedro Creek Culture Park proj ect, Alterman is completing phase two of the four-phase project, which in cludes the first piece of interactive public art along the linear park. STREAM, by New York artist Adam Frank, is a massive light ed wall of water that interacts with a mi crophone, allowing people to use their voices to alter the lights’ colors and rhythms. Alterman installed the 250-ft system of color-changing fixtures, creat ing a one-of-a-kind experience for visitors. The lights can be programmed from a central controller and currently default to the audio feed from the nearby offices of Texas Public Radio when no visitors are in teracting with it. Chris Blanton, Director of Construction for Alterman in San Anto nio says “This project is a testament to the commitment of our field crews that have been on this project for the last 4 years. We are proud to say that we have been on this project since the beginning, and plan to see it through.”

In addition, Alterman installed light ing for the walking trails and murals along the creek, which traces the history of San Antonio and the region through art and interpretive exhibits. The project reso nates with Alterman’s deep roots in San Antonio and introduces cutting edge electrical innovation to the modern expe rience of this historic site. “Alterman first opened in downtown San Antonio back in 1923.” says Alterman CEO Greg Padalec ki, “working on projects such as San Pedro Creek is especially rewarding as it is a con tinuation of the work Alterman has been doing for the last almost 100 years. We are

so excited to continue to be a part of the future of San Antonio as we grow and ex pand into new regions.”

Alterman installed the 250-ft system of color-changing fixtures, creating a one-of-a-kind experience for visitors. trails and 11 acres of landscaping to the downtown fabric.

When San Pedro Creek’s four phases are completed, the park will run for 2.2 miles through downtown, starting the flood tunnel inlet at Santa Rosa Street and terminating to the south at the confluence of the Alazán and Apache Creeks. The project will include 60,000 linear feet of new lighted walls, renovate or replace eight street bridges (including adding lighting under and above each bridge), and add four miles of illuminated walking

Alterman is a Texas electrical contrac tor that performs the full scope of electri cal construction. Starting in 1923, Alter man focused on building the city of San Antonio with electrical construction and service. Since 2000, the company has ex panded its capabilities through low volt age technologies along with industrial construction and system automation and has turned its sights on growing geo graphically across Texas with a focus on innovation. -cmw

Alterman San Antonio, TX

Association Calendar

ABC

Associated Builders & Contractors Inc.

Dec. 1: Construct A Kid’s Christmas, Alzafar Shrine Temple, 901 N. Loop 1604 W., 5:3011pm

Dec. 7: Excellence In Construction Awards, Se curity Service Event Center, 15000 W I-10, 6-9pm. For more contact Kerry Gonzales at 210-342-1994 or email kerry@abcsouthtexas. org

AGC

Associated General Contractors

Dec. 1: Construct A Kid’s Christmas, Alzafar Shrine Temple, 901 N. Loop 1604 W., 5:3011pm

Dec. 2: Construct A Kid’s Christmas Toy Drive, Construction News Office, 4047 Naco-Perin, 10am-2pm

Dec. 2: Elf Louise Gift Wrapping, Port of San Antonio, 1-3pm

Dec. 8: Holiday Party, AGC Chapter Offices, 10806 Gulfdale, 4-6pm

Dec. 14: Lunch & Learn Blueprint 101, AGC Chapter Offices, 10806 Gulfdale, 11am12:30pm, $30. For more info, call Kelly Wilson at 210-349-4921

AIA

American Institute of Architects

Dec. 1: SAYA: Gingerbread Structure Competi tion, 5:30-7:30pm, $50 Entry Fee. For more info, go to www.aiasa.org

ASA

American Subcontractors Association

Dec. 1: Construct A Kid’s Christmas, Alzafar Shrine Temple, 901 N. Loop 1604 W., 5:3011pm Dec. 2: Construct A Kid’s Christmas Toy Drive, Construction News Office, 4047 Naco-Perin, 10am-2pm. For more info, contact Jennifer Swinney at 210-349-2105 or email jennifer@ asasanantonio.org

ASSP

American Society of Safety Professionals

Dec. 13: Holiday Christmas Party, The Well, 5539 UTSA Blvd. 6-10pm, $30. For more info, go to www.southtexasasse.org

CFMA

Construction Financial Management

Dec. 1: Construct A Kid’s Christmas, Alzafar Shrine Temple, 901 N. Loop 1604 W., 5:3011pm

Dec. 2: Construct A Kid’s Christmas Toy Drive, Construction News Office, 4047 Naco-Perin, 10am-2pm. For more info, contact Tom Whit ney at 210-649-9000 or go to www.sananto nio.cfma.org

GSABA

Greater San Antonio Builders Association

Dec. 1: 2022 Holiday Gala & Installation, GSA BA Ballroom, 3625 Paesanons Pkwy., 6-10pm, $90 Individual, $950 Table of Ten. For more info, contact Kristen Love at 210-696-3800 or email klove@sabuilders.com

HCAdeSA

Hispanic Contractors Association de San Antonio

Dec. 1: Construct A Kid’s Christmas, Alzafar Shrine Temple, 901 N. Loop 1604 W., 5:3011pm Dec. 2: Construct A Kid’s Christmas Toy Drive, Construction News Office, 4047 Naco-Perin, 10am-2pm Dec. 8: Holiday Open House & Mixer, HCAde SA Offices, 2391 NE Loop 410 #206, 3-7pm. For more info, call 210-444-1100 or email admin@ hcadesa.org

IEC

Independent Electrical Contractors

Dec. 1: Construct A Kid’s Christmas, Alzafar Shrine Temple, 901 N. Loop 1604 W., 5:3011pm

Dec. 2: Construct A Kid’s Christmas Toy Drive, Construction News Office, 4047 Naco-Perin, 10am-2pm Dec. 2: Membership Appreciation Casino Night, IEC Offices, 5511 Ingram Rd., 6- 11pm Dec. 17: Electrical Maintenance Technician Class, IEC Offices, 5511 Ingram Rd., 8am-5pm Dec. 20: Continuing Education Class, IEC Of fices, 5511 Ingram Rd., 5-9pm. For more info, contact Julie Tucker at 210-431-9861 or email jtucker@iecsanantonio.com

MCA-SMACNA INC

Mechanical Contractors Association Sheet Metal & A/C Nat’l Association Dec. 1: Construct A Kid’s Christmas, Alzafar Shrine Temple, 901 N. Loop 1604 W., 5:3011pm Dec. 2: Construct A Kid’s Christmas Toy Drive, Construction News Office, 4047 Naco-Perin, 10am-2pm Dec. 9: MCA-SMACNA Admin Party, 11:30am Dec. 21: MCA-SMACNA Christmas Party, 11am. For more info, call Sandee organ at 210-8223763

NAWIC

National Association of Women in Construction

Dec. 1: Construct A Kid’s Christmas, Alzafar Shrine Temple, 901 N. Loop 1604 W., 5:3011pm

Dec. 2: Construct A Kid’s Christmas Toy Drive, Construction News Office, 4047 Naco-Perin, 10am-2pm

Dec. 7: Holiday Party, Clay Casa, 502 Embassy Oaks #107, $5. For more info, contact Stepha nie Garcia at sgarcia@r-o.com or register at nawicsatx.org

PHCC

Plumbing Heating Cooling Contractors

Dec. 15: Christmas Party – Invitation Only, Brasao Brazilian Steakhouse, 19210 W I-10. For more info, contact Heidi Trimble at 210-8247422 or email heidi@phcc-sanantonio.org

SAMCA

San Antonio Masonry Contractors Association

Dec. 1: Construct A Kid’s Christmas, Alzafar Shrine Temple, 901 N. Loop 1604 W., 5:3011pm

Dec. 2: Construct A Kid’s Christmas Toy Drive, Construction News Office, 4047 Naco-Perin, 10am-2pm

Dec. 8: Holiday Party, Ajuna Mexican Bar, 11703 Huebner Rd., 6pm. For more info, con tact Debi at 210-347-2423 or email thesamca@ gmail.com

TACCA

Texas Air Conditioning Contractors Association

Dec. 1: Construct A Kid’s Christmas, Alzafar Shrine Temple, 901 N. Loop 1604 W., 5:3011pm

Dec. 2: Construct A Kid’s Christmas Toy Drive, Construction News Office, 4047 Naco-Perin, 10am-2pm. For more info, call Dawn Thomp son at 210-901-4222

TXAPA

Texas Asphalt Pavement Association Dec. 7: Workforce Development Symposium, TXAPA Campus, 219 Commercial Dr., Buda, TX, 11:30am-6:30pm.

Dec. 15: TXAPA Live! Cold Weather Paving & Importance of Temperature, 3-4pm. For more info, contact Becky Schaeffer at 512-312-2099 or email bschaeffer@texasasphalt.org

Estrada’s shop is comprised of four buildings – three that are 4,000sf and one that is 12,000sf where his creativity comes to life. “I work in one shop, two full-time guys in another, and a painter in a third,” adds Estrada. “I have an installer and two helpers. I believe whenever we do cabinets, doors, or whatever, I like to do it turn-key. Meaning that once we walk away from it, it’s totally done.

“It’s a very small group of people. But we do a lot of work with that handful of people. I’m not as fast as the other shops but we try to do the best we possibly can. Fast is not always the quickest.”

Estrada believes in using only quality hardwoods and says he’s “allergic” to us ing MDF and particleboard. “I know I don’t use it. We use top-grade plywood for the boxes and solid hardwood for the fronts. I buy all raw materials. I mill all the lumber. We cut every single piece. We fit every single piece. We secure it, fill ‘em, sand ‘em and get it all ready for finishing.

Then we take ‘em to the finish shop and either paint or stain ‘em. It’s all custom work.”

At 66 years old, Estrada admits it is hard for him to pick up a sheet of ply wood, but he gets up every morning and looks forward to the next thing they’re going to build. “As long as I live, can see good and my health stays good, I’ll be doing this. I’ve never had an apprentice, but I have some really good guys that can do the work if I couldn’t. My daughter, Melanie Estrada Gallardo, is my busi ness partner. Her husband is now work ing for us. He’s on the quality control side of the business. He paints, makes deliver ies, picks up material, and is learning how to estimate so he can take over some of the responsibilities.”

Located in San Antonio, E.M. Estrada Millwork • Cabinets • Carpentry performs both residential and commercial millwork, cabinets, and carpentry work. -cmw

continued from Page 1 — HOLT Industrial Rentals

Holt Industrial Rentals General Manager Don Myrick. “It eases the burden of run ning their businesses by offloading the expertise needed to plan out these large, temporary industrial solutions.”

HOLT found that recent studies indi cate an expected growth in equipment rental of $64 billion by 2025. This is in part due to an expected rise in party and event planning, growth in oil and gas production, rising employment, and rap id urbanization.

Having seen an increase in rental re quests across HOLT’s businesses, Peter J. Holt , CEO of HOLT stated, “HOLT has al ways been an organization that pivots to meet the needs of our customers. We un derstand the importance of rentals across the industrial, construction, and facilities equipment industries and the role our services can play in the success of these businesses. Temporary industrial solu tions are critical to keeping productivity

going at the pace necessary in today’s business landscape, and we are excited to launch this new company.”

In addition to the larger scale of op erations and the increased speed of busi ness, companies are also feeling the strain of increased inclement weather such as freezes, heat waves, and natural disasters that can bring business to a halt.

HOLT is continuously looking for ways to provide solutions to their customers.

HOLT Industrial Rentals is just that. The company provides service throughout Texas with a location in San Antonio and several others coming soon in Dallas, Corpus Christi, Georgetown, and Hous ton. It is part of HOLT’s commitment to bringing added value to its customers with safe, premium products that sup port multiple industries.

HOLT Industrial Rentals is part of the HOLT family of companies. -cmw

continued from Page 1 — Eco-Soil Stabilizers which it was taken. Or you can adjust the pH of the soil.

“The first two soil mitigation meth ods are temporary solutions. It’s all about longevity. What our chemical does is it neutralizes the clay molecule. When neu tralized, it will not accept water. There fore, they will not push apart, and they will not extend. Once that process is done, it’s done.”

The technology was invented in the Colorado mining systems where some of the most expansive clay in the country exists. Underneath all the rock is expan sive clay. During the snow melts, the wa ter comes through swelling the mine shafts and flashing. Seeking a solution, geotechs and engineers were hired to find a solution. In the late ‘90s, the Uni versity of Texas in Arlington’s construc tion school took the technology and started testing it around foundations. The methods were tested and later brought into the field.

Headquartered in Canyon Lake, EcoSoil Stabilizers is centrally located to serve not just Austin and San Antonio but from the Red River down to South Texas. “Our main area,” Arnold adds, “runs from south of the Red River where the Para guay formation runs all the way south on either side of I-35, which as you know is where just about all the development is spilling into Texas.”

Eco-Soil’s biggest asset isn’t its equipment, it’s its team. From top to bot tom, they have put a lot of time, resourc es, and capital into hiring the right peo ple. “We can service just about anyone in any industry in the state,” Arnold boasts. “From our guys in the field to our back of fice to our building reps, I’m most proud of the team we have built.

“We do it all. We service homes that are built on their own lots to mass devel opments.”

Eco-Soil Stabilizers is headquartered in Canyon Lake, TX. -cmw

continued from Page 1 — E.M. Estrada Millworks • Cabinets • Carpentry

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Hope breaking ground

Metropolitan Contracting (MET RO) in conjunction with the San Antonio Hope Center hosted a groundbreaking ceremony at the SA Hope Center located on N. General Mc Mullen on Oct. 27. The project will en compass the connecting of two existing buildings and the construction of two new freestanding structures.

“This is kind of the next phase of whom we’re going to be and how we’re going to serve,” says SA Hope Chairman of the Board Bruce Barnard. “It’s a very special day to be able to gather with so many supporters and begin this journey of building out this space and having the facility to support this community.”

The SA Hope Center, previously known as the Christian Hope Resource Center, began as a benevolent ministry of Oak Hills Church after members of the community would go to the church seek ing help with food and clothing. Since then, the center has grown to serve the

San Antonio community with four loca tions in partnership with many area non-profits and church organizations.

The new facility through donations from Valero, H-E-B, and other private contributions, will provide an education facility that will serve the community and make available resources for affordable childcare. Currently, the campus includes one classroom, where classes such as fi nancial literacy, workforce development, and parenting occur. The building will in clude three classrooms increasing the ca pacity to serve 175 clients simultaneous ly. Additionally, these classrooms will have the ability to be opened into one large space, where events such as health and employment fairs can be held. The rooms will also be used as meeting spac es for not only the SA Help Center but also their partner organizations.

Headquartered in San Antonio, Metro politan Contracting (METRO) is a commer cial general contractor. -cmw

Round-Up

Terracon Consul tants Inc. is pleased to announce the pro motion of Brittany Menard, CPSM, to the position of Senior Associate. With more than nine years of ex perience, Menard serves as the Senior Marketing Specialist for Terracon’s San Antonio, Corpus Christi, and Laredo offic es and serves as the Texas Transportation Marketing Lead. Her responsibilities in clude managing and executing contract responses, facilitating pursuit strategy meetings, content creation, and develop ing client relationships. -cmw

Catamount Con structors welcomes Emily Livorsi as Vice President of People. Livorsi has over four teen years of experi ence in management consulting, HR tech nology, and coaching programs. She has deployed and implemented leadership development solutions that reach thou sands of leaders. Livorsi is most passion ate about helping leaders grow to their fullest potential and achieve greater re sults with their partners and clients, on projects and with their teams. -cmw

TDIndustries is pleased to announce that Greg Bailey has been promoted to Vice President of Con struction for TD’s San Antonio location. A Texas A&M alumni, he has an extensive background in strategic and new business development and most recently served as TD’s Director of Preconstruction for San Antonio. -cmw

The South Texas Elec trical Flintco LLC is pleased to announce the promotion of Chad Hunter to Proj ect Director. He is an experienced project manager with a demonstrated history of working in the construction industry. Hunter is skilled in AutoCAD, Microsoft Office, communica tion, project estimation, project execu tion, contracts and lean construction. Hunter holds a bachelor’s degree in Con struction Science from Texas A&M Uni versity. -cmw

BGE Inc. is pleased to announce Quincy Al len, PE, recently joined the BGE team as Transportation Business Leader. In this role, Allen will partner with the firm’s Transportation Systems and Con struction Management departments in Texas to help BGE be even more success ful in securing strategic project opportu nities. Allen brings 37 years of experience in planning, design, construction, and maintenance with the Texas Department of Transportation. -cmw

L-R: Julie Bedingfield, H-E-B; Deborah Weems, Valero Foundation; Bruce Barnard, Harvey Najim, SA Hope Executive Director Megan Legacy, Keilani La Shun Ramsey-Jones, and her mother Keimoni Ramsey.

United Tool & Fastener hosted a lunch and sale event on Oct. 26 on Milwaukee Tool products. The event was held at the United Tools & Fas tener location on Jones Maltsberger Rd where Milwaukee Tool representatives

were on hand to answer questions about the wide array of tools offered by Milwau kee. Attendees and United Tool & Fasten er customers were treated to lunch from Chick-fil-A. - cmw

Milwaukee Tool representatives get ready for United Tool & Fastener’s sale on Milwaukee Tool products.

United Tool & Fastener sales team members visit with customers about the Milwaukee Tool sale

Remembering the ‘80s

The San Antonio Chapter of Associ ated General Chapters (AGC) cele brated the ‘80s at their 28th Annual Safety Fair and Barbecue Cook-off. The event was held at the Helotes Fair Grounds on Oct. 15. Over 800 were in at tendance to participate in the various festivities and sample the fine cuisine prepared by the 22 participating cooking teams. Festivities included face painting, a caricature artist, a petting zoo, pony rides, exhibitors, live entertainment, free ice cream and snow cones; and of course, the presentation of AGC’s Annual Safety Awards. Photos courtesy of Mary C. Haskins Photography -cmw

Larry Westbrook Safe Superintendent Award: Robert Klinksiek, Joeris General Contractors Ltd.

The plastics of construction

Shooting to give back

In 2021, Plastic Supply of San Antonio Inc. began a new chapter in the com pany’s 60-plus-year history. The com pany is under new ownership and will soon have a room place to call home.

With the retirement of Jacqueline Roberts, long-time employees and hus band and wife team, Maria Escobar and Angel Martinez bought the 60-plusyear-old company from Roberts. The de cision came on the heels of the building, which had been leased, had been sold.

“Once Jacqueline got the news that the building was sold, she gave us the first option to buy,” says Escobar. “I think by that time she was ready to do her own thing and enjoy life.”

Ownership and a new facility aren’t the only changes within the company. The company has also added to its pro duction line a new CNC router. “Now we can take on a lot more detailed projects than before,” adds Escobar.

A lot of people see Plastic Supply as a place that sells plastics but is actually a unique type of fabricator like that of a sheet metal fabricator. “Plastic Supply is

so interesting because we have so many different types of clients that you could not imagine,” Escobar says. “Contractors to interior designers to medical field peo ple to DIY kind of project people. Every project is unique. From big projects to very small projects.”

A big customer base for the compa ny comes from framers and millworkers, especially when it comes to specialty work such as shadow boxes and display cabinets. Glass breaks, but acrylic does not. Plastic Supply is seeing more and more contractors coming in with custom designs than ever before because Plastic Supply can produce locally. “We can fab ricate any type of design,” Escobar main tains. “We can even replicate plastic parts.”

Most of the Plastic Supply’s fabrica tion is still handmade. In other words, there are no special machines to create their customers’ orders, from design to final polish, it is all done by hand.

Plastic Supply of San Antonio Inc. is a fabricator and supplier of a wide range of plastic products. -cmw

The 2nd Annual E-Z Bel Construction Sporting Clay Shoot Fundraiser and Appreciation Event presented by United Rentals Trench Safety was held on Sept. 22 at the National Sporting Clay Shoot Complex. Over 250 participants joined in to raise funds for the San Anto nio Food Bank and San Antonio ACE Mentor program. In partnership with NUCA San Antonio, the event raised over $80,000.

Support to the food bank provided over 200,000 meals for families in their

season of need. The ACE Mentor Program will use its portion of the funds to create scholarships for high school students to continue their education in the fields of architecture, construction, engineering, and building the workforce of tomorrow. Awards were given to first, second, and third-place teams based on scores during the clay shoot. E-Z Bel Construc tion walked away with first place while Alamo Concrete took second place, and M&M Contracting took third. -cmw

Carbon neutrality

The Texas Aggregates & Concrete As sociation (TACA) is the main re source for the aggregate, concrete, cement, and other associated industries in Texas. TACA welcomed 112 attendees to its Environmental & Safety Seminar Oct. 27-28. The seminar was held

safety

-cmw

1st Place E-Z Bel Construction: EZ-Bel family member Gibby Rodriquez, Taylor Rodriguez, Bryan Donnell, and EZ-Bel family member Mason Z.

E-Z Bel employees and family members

E-Z Bel Construction President Stephen Park presents Liz Kester of the San Antonio Bank with a check for $25,200.

Representing the ACE Mentor Program, Stephen Park (middle) and his daughter Sullivan (left) accept a check from NUCA Vice President LA Bankler-Beck, RAM2 Utilities

at the Marriott Riverwalk where industry pro fessionals delivered topical presentations on managing environmental and

regulations and other issues facing TACA

Lionel Lemay was one of many speakers who spoke at TACA’s Environmental & Safety Seminar. members today. National Ready Mixed Concrete Association Executive Vice President/Division Head, Structures and Sustainability Lionel Lemay, P.E., S.E., LEED addressed attendees stating, “To day, to stay competitive with other build ing materials, the cement and concrete industries must continue to embrace the language of measuring and demonstrat ing carbon neutrality.”

The new owners of Plastic Supply of San Antonio L-R: Maria Escobar and Angel Martinez

Having a witch of a time!

etting into the Halloween spirit, the construction industry entered the realm of horror, as companies around town dressed up in their ghoulish fashions. Whether through a company-wide theme or individual expression, it’s scary to say the construction industry could not hide from having a beastly time. -cmw

BakerTriangle

Alamo Tile & Stone

ASA Board

NAWIC