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October 2023

Page 1

October 2023


ABC Keystone Leadership 2023 Executive Committee: CHAIR of the BOARD

Steve Conway Pyramid Construction Services, Inc. A Quandel Company

CHAIR-ELECT

John Lehmann Poole Anderson Construction, LLC

1st VICE CHAIR

Guy Kingree, IMC Construction

2nd VICE CHAIR

Steven Kearns, James Craft & Son, Inc.

SECRETARY

Ed Engle, Smucker Company

TREASURER

Timothy A. Kershner, CPA, Walz Group

2022 CHAIR

Keith Eldredge, CPA, RKL

2023 Board of Directors: Eli Ace, Nexen Construction, LLC Robb Beiler

Contents 2

Message from the Chair

3

From the Desk of G. David Sload

4

Founding Member Spotlight

5

Careers in Construction Month

8

Advocacy Update

9

Apprenticeship Update

12

Member Spotlight

16

Ask An Accountant

18

New Members

19

Calendar

21

Anniversaries / #ABCMeritShopProud

Jeff Bright, Saxton & Stump Lawyers and Consultants Roger S. Brubaker, MVE Group Scott Duke, The Witmer Group Joe Finkey, Martin’s Flooring Michael L. Fiore, Leonard S. Fiore, Inc. Brian Floyd, EPIC Insurance Brokers & Consultants Ken Funk, Arthur Funk & Sons, Inc. John H. Hykes II, B&B Integrations Anthony Leer, Leer Electric, Inc. David H. Oblender, EHD Matt Shehan, Benchmark Construction Company, Inc. Jan L. Wagner, Wagman Construction, Inc. Scott Wengrenovich, Murray Jeff Witmer, Pathway Business Advisors

G. David Sload, President-CEO

ABC Keystone | 135 Shellyland Road, Manheim, PA 17545 (717) 653-8106 | abckeystone.org

The Merit Shop Spokesman is published 12 times a year by Associated Builders & Contractors, Keystone Chapter. Articles of interest, member news, press releases, and advertising placement requests may be submitted to the editor: Rebecca Wolf Director of Marketing & Communications ABC Keystone rebecca@abckeystone.org (717) 653-8106

FOLLOW US: @ABCKeystonePA LinkedIn/company/abckeystone/ @ABCKeystone


Steve Conway

Pyramid Construction Services, LLC A Quandel Company

CELEBRATE CAREERS IN CONSTRUCTION MONTH The conversation about the construction labor force shortage is undoubtedly familiar to the members of our organization. With nearly one in four construction workers in the 55+ age group, the retirement rate far outpaces the entrants into the trades. The US construction industry averaged 390,000 job openings monthly in 2022, the highest level ever recorded. In July 2023, this number had cooled to 363,000 open jobs because of a slowing economy, which is shortterm relief for a long-term problem. As I spoke of in a message earlier this year, a career in the construction trades could be more attractive to most young adults entering the labor force. Not to mention, this generation is much smaller in numbers compared to the Baby Boomers that are leaving the industry. Fixing our labor shortage cannot be solved by attracting more high school graduates. Additionally, we must find other creative ways to shore up our labor force needs. Students in high school have long been taught that the only way to make a lucrative living is through a 4-year college degree. Though this thinking has been tem-

pered in recent years, the industry still has a stigma that we can’t seem to shake. ABC Keystone continues to broaden our reach to school districts within our chapter, educating school guidance counselors on the opportunities in our industry and forming articulation agreements and pre-apprenticeship programs. Until recent years, construction was stereotypically thought to be a career for males, eliminating a pool of potential female candidates representing nearly 50% of the US workforce. Though the number of women working in the skilled trades has risen in recent years, the number is still only 6% to 7% of the workforce. Over the past few years, ABC Keystone has been allocating time and resources toward the persons with criminal justice involvement (reentry) programs. Recently, ABC staff members attended prison reentry career fairs within our region, touring their training facilities and sharing how ABC can credit reentrants for the education they obtained during their incarceration. Additionally, Jim Willshier, ABC Director of Government Affairs, has been working with legislators on several reform bills intended to loosen some of the restrictions that have precluded many persons with criminal justice involvement from entering the skilled trades. Immigrants and refugees, though sometimes a polarizing topic, are another pool of potential skilled labor. ABC National has penned letters to members of the 118th Congress, highlighting areas in which ABC supports lawful immigration reform that addresses the construction workforce needs. The shortage of skilled craftsmen and women is not something we can resolve overnight. It’s going to take time and effort. As members of ABC, we must be out in our communities, promoting careers in the skilled trades. Get involved in programs in your local school districts. Please ask your state and national representatives what they are doing to support bills that will benefit our industry. It will take the industry’s voice and action to move the needle on this topic. 2


WHERE IT ALL STARTED At the Keystone Chapter, we prepare for a new year as we enter the last quarter of each year. We prepare certain standard things such as our budget, preparing for a new incoming Chair of the Board, and getting all our event and committee dates set. 2024 will be slightly different. In addition to the standard prep, we will get ready for a milestone year. 2024 will be Keystone’s 65th anniversary. A lot has changed in 65 years. In some respects, it has; in others, it is like it was in the beginning. Sixty-five years ago, our founding freedom fighters were looking to be able to bid and acquire work while having a level playing field. Yes, the unions didn’t think merit shop contractors should be allowed to work on public projects and that the merit shop existed to drive wages to the bottom of the scale. While we have made great strides in the last 65 years, the current environment wants to turn the clock back. The Biden administration is doing everything possible to pave the way for union contractors and exclude the merit shop contractors. Can you say PLA and RCO? The National Labor Relations Board, as of August 25th, has turned the clock back 50 years to make it easier for employees to organize without a secret ballot cast. Employers need to be paying attention. We need you, the current members, to continue the battle that our founding members fought for: Free Enterprise and the Merit Shop philosophy. To that end, we want to recognize those members who took on the initial battles and made the Keystone Chapter of ABC a reality in 1959. These still active members are as follows:

While some names have changed slightly over the years, their commitment to ABC has remained steadfast. We will highlight these firms throughout the last quarter of this year in our monthly “Spokesman” magazine. This month will feature Howells Glass Co., Inc., celebrating its 100th year. When you interact with these firms, thank them for starting the movement. Without them, we would not be here. We could not continue the movement without you, our current members. Thanks to all you do to advance the Free Enterprise initiatives and the Merit Shop philosophy. 3


One hundred years ago, George Washington Howells, a man with an entrepreneurial spirit, came to Lancaster to establish Howells Auto Glass & Paint Company. The multi-faceted business consisted of hardware, paint, auto glass, screens, and window glass. Over the years, the business grew as son, Robert R. and grandson, Robert G. Howells, specialized in contract glazing, aluminum storefronts, doors, and windows. Today, with over 20 full- and part-time employees, Robert G. Howells and the company continue to serve Lancaster and surrounding counties with a proud third-generation tradition of value, integrity, and service. Just like in 1924, “Howells will show you ‘Howell’ to do it right!” We asked President Robert G. Howells how Howells Glass has changed over the past 100 years, and how being an ABC Keystone Founding Member has impacted the business. What do you consider to be Howells greatest achievement? We continue to serve Lancaster and surrounding counties with quality products and professional workmanship for 100 years. Howells Glass survived stock market crashes, a fire, and the recent pandemic. Changing economies and technologies bring many challenges, and we have changed our strategies to accommodate them. How do you measure the success of your company? Having dedicated and caring employees and a longstanding reputation with clients and the community. Always keeping quality, value, and teamwork at the forefront. What are your top 3 goals for Howells Glass? Increase internet marketing, continue to grow and expand our glass contracting business, and improve our effectiveness as a team.

How has being a founding ABC Member made an impact on Howells Glass? The longstanding relationships with other business owners and community leaders are valued and vastly contributed to the growth of Howells Glass. ABC keeps us current on the latest economic, legal, regulatory, and industry news. What advice would you give to potential and current ABC Members? Take advantage of the expertise and support ABC offers its members. They are committed to quality, value, and integrity. They help you search for other contractors and suppliers, their sales volume, and types of construction. ABC also offers other member benefits, education, and resources for start-ups and established businesses. What exciting projects are on the horizon at Howells Glass? New contracts for apartment complexes, hotels, and increasing our convenience store business.

HOWELLS GLASS COMPANY 114 S. Queen St. Lancaster, PA 17603 www.howellsglass.com (717) 397-3734 4


By: Stephanie Larkin, VP of Education, Safety & Workforce Development

October is Careers in Construction Month, a time when we celebrate those who made the choice to join our industry and the family-sustaining careers they’ve attained. This year, I’d like to suggest we look at this month from a different perspective and focus on those who could be part of our industry and would benefit greatly, if we focus on bringing them in. As owners and executives, you know it’s a tight labor market. You struggle every day to find employees that are consistently willing to show up on time and are prepared to work. There are two key populations you may not be aware of that could help solve your talent issues: refugees and reentrants. ABC Keystone has been working to educate our members on the benefits of hiring reentrants, including how to read background checks, how to work with parole, etc. What’s new to us is working with the refugee population. To educate ourselves and our members, our workforce staff connected with Church World Service, a global organization with 33 offices is the United States. You may not be aware, but the Lancaster area is home to a large refugee population. Refugees have legal status to work in the U.S., and many refugees come to our country with numerous qualifications, knowledge, skills, and abilities. Church World Service has different teams in our area: Welcome: Providing with initial resettlement support (housing, language assistance, medical)

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Integration: Providing intensive case management, career pathways, youth mentoring and home study. Immigration Legal Services: Supports unaccompanied minors and provides help adjusting their legal status Community: Outreach and education in the local area Employment Services are available to clients up to five years after arrival and include: identifying skills and education; creating resumes; providing cultural orientation; and offering interview preparation and help with onboarding. You may think it’s too difficult to tap into this population of skilled labor, that they have too many barriers to be successful with your company. In fact, their barriers are the same as many of your other employees – transportation and childcare. Yes, there are language barriers, but there is assistance available through Church World Service, local literacy councils and the local intermediate units. I encourage you to consider reaching out to Church World Service (www.cwsglobal.org) and the Employment Program Supervisor, Alain Martinez de la Torre (amartinez@cwsglobal.org). By helping your neighbor, you can help your business.

BY HELPING YOUR NEIGHBOR, YOU CAN HELP YOUR BUSINESS.


October 16 - 20, 2023 Construction Inclusion Week (CIW) amplifies awareness while celebrating diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) throughout the industry to spearhead change. PURPOSE: • To stand united in setting expectations and promoting consistent behavior. • To champion inclusion that empowers us to reach our full potential, fueling innovation and connection with our employees, clients, and communities we serve. • To harness and leverage the capabilities and global reach of the construction industry and its affiliates, to cultivate and perpetuate diversity, equity, and inclusion. PROCESS: An annual week-long effort to heighten the awareness and engagement of Inclusion related activities with the goal of advancing inclusion throughout the construction industry. PAYOFF: • Unified construction industry that attracts and retains the best talent • Boost employee morale and confidence in industry • Increased employee productivity • Improved client relations To learn more about Construction Inclusion Week visit www.constructioninclusionweek.com


MEMBER BENEFIT

Calling 811 Keeps You Safe. Underground power lines, communication cables, gas lines, water lines, or other utilities may lie below the surface of your property or areas of planned excavation. To keep you safe and prevent damage to utilities, it is critical to call 8-1-1 before starting any digging or excavating. Be sure to allow time for utility companies to visit the area to mark the location of their underground facilities. ABC Keystone is here to help! Fax or email your invoice to the Chapter office, and you won’t be obligated to pay the PA One Call System invoice!

Call ABC Keystone Before You Dig

(717) 653-8106 FAX (717) 653-6431 lori@abckeystone.org

PA ONE CALL SYSTEM Let ABC Pay Your Invoice!


JIM WILLSHIER

ABC KEYSTONE, DIRECTOR OF GOVERNMENT AFFAIRS

IT’S NEARLY NOVEMBER, DO YOU KNOW WHO YOUR CANDIDATE IS? The political spin cycle never ends, especially in Pennsylvania. We've had more special elections from legislators seeking higher office than in recent history. Now, we are talking about changing the date for our primaries in 2024 to give Pennsylvania an edge in selecting a presidential nominee.

The court's makeup by that time gives control of the redistricting process. Whichever side of the aisle you are on, this is high stakes for the future.

Not to confuse judge races, there are candidates for Commonwealth Court and Superior Court, county commissioners, and school districts. Given the scope This November matters even though it is not swept of their roles and involvement in many of the issues we into all that political drama. In a few short weeks, discuss in ABC, all have clear impacts. We regularly we will select key leaders in public office who aren't discuss prevailing wage, Project Labor Agreements, given their due by most of us – school board, county and Responsible Contractor Ordinances (RCOs) – commissioners, and even Pennsylvania Supreme Court commissioners and school boards make decisions on justices. It's easy to see how vital those positions are these issues. They will have even more calls to make in for us when they make decisions. But let's put a fine the hyper-partisan climate spilling over from D.C. point on that statement and ask if you know who you'll be voting for on your ballot this November 7. ABC Keystone doesn’t make endorsements for these races, and it would be great to give you an assessment The winner of the Supreme Court race between of each candidate, but there are just far too many Democrat Daniel McCaffery and Republican Carolyn to track. We encourage you to check resources to Carluccio will have a longstanding impact in find your candidates and research from there. The Pennsylvania. The winner will also be filling a vacancy Pennsylvania Department of State and local County that affects the current strong democrat leaning court's Board of Elections will have a listing of candidates 4-2 bench to bring the court to its total capacity of 7. All that should be on the ballot. We encourage you to do four incumbent Democratic justices will face retention homework before November on these races as they or reach their mandatory retirement age by 2027. On will affect your daily life even more than the potential the other side, Republicans could make inroads to take Trump-Biden rematch that has pundits' attention today. back control of the court and hold it through 2030. VOTING RESOURCES www.ballotpedia.org/Pennsylvania_intermediate_ appellate_court_elections

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APPRENTICESHIP

UPDATE

October is Careers in Construction Month and an excellent opportunity to recognize our apprentices, workforce development and partnerships with high schools, Career and Technical Centers, and higher education in ABC Keystone's 33-county footprint. With the workforce shortage, the Chapter will continue to promote careers in construction as a huge component of our strategic plan. The Chapter is a busy place during the month of October. Fall Construction Wars takes place midmonth. Over 200 middle school students will come to the facility to learn about career options and gain exposure to seven different trade stations to explore options that may interest them as they plan their career paths. We hope to see you there! 9


ABC KEYSTONE Apprentices Earn Opportunity to Compete in ABC National Craft Competition Local apprentices received top scores at the Keystone Chapter’s Individual Local Craft Competition on Saturday, September 23, 2023, at the Chapter’s stateof-the-art training facility in Manheim. The local craft competition is made possible through the support of ABC Keystone Chapter members.

Congratulations to the 2023 ABC Keystone individual local competition top scorers, who will be attending the National Craft Competition in March 2024:

Ahead of the practical trade skills competition, the apprentices were required to take a written test contributing to the remaining 25% of their total score. During the written test, they proved their academic understanding and knowledge gained throughout their education program. To earn a spot at ABC Keystone’s local craft competition, apprentices must rank within the top five of their trade class.

Nick Gatoura

During the 6-hour event, competitors kept their diligent focus on their craft. They maintained strict attention to safety while working on projects to test their practical and problem-solving skills. This hands-on portion of the individual competition contributed to 75% of their total score and was judged by construction industry professionals. Individual competitors are not given details of their project build before the event. The top scorers who demonstrated superior skills, training, and safe work practices will receive an all-expenses paid trip to the upcoming 2024 ABC National Craft Competition (NCC) held on March 14, 2024, in Kissimmee, Florida. They will compete against craftspeople from ABC’s 68 chapters nationwide at the National Craft Competition.

Austin Riley

ABC Keystone commends all who earned the opportunity to compete. “The Keystone Chapter is proud of the accomplishments of all who competed. Their commitment to excellence as they represented their companies and the Chapter was exemplary and a true testament to the focus on quality and safety shown by ABC members,” said ABC Keystone’s Director of Apprenticeship, Cindy DeWire.

Tommy Culbert Plumbing B.J. Baldwin Electrical/Mechanical, Inc. Electrical, MVE Group

Brandon Hanna HVAC, Haller Enterprises Brandon Lewis Carpentry Pyramid Construction Services, Inc., A Quandel Company Electrical – L.W. Bishop & Sons, Inc.

(L to R) Brandon Hanna, Nick Gatoura, Austin Riley, Tommy Culbert and Brandon Lewis

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Connecting You with Colleagues in Your Area!

TOPIC:

NO-COST EVENT BRING A COLLEAGUE!

“A New Attitude” OSHA’s Enhanced Enforcement Program and Its Impact on the Construction Industry.

PRESENTER: Michael Metz-Topodas

Partner in the Construction Group, Saul Ewing LLP and ABC Keystone Membership Committee Chair

• Discussion will break down OSHA’s 2023 policy changes and assess their impact on construction project operations. • OSHA’s revised policies have enhanced its enforcement capabilities and disproportionately affect construction work.

Develop your business network and get pertinent info on topics that affect your livelihood. Network and exchange ideas and views with your peers from the region. • Network with ABC members in your area and grow your business • Valuable information on topics that affect your business • No-cost opportunity to engage with ABC Keystone and members • Invite a colleague to join you!

• Contractors should attend this talk to prepare for increased OSHA investigations, inspections, citations, and fines.

Register Today for this NO-COST Event!

“I have found the topics discussed at the

REGISTRATION: 7:15 am - 7:30 am | MEETING TIME: 7:30 am - 9 am

ABC’s Regional meetings relevant to issues facing today's contractors. In addition, the meetings are located in areas where I can schedule to attend. I have used the knowledge from the ABC meetings in our management team meetings to manage better and retain our co-workers.” – Thomas W. Bertolet Bertolet Construction Corporation

For More Information Contact:

Carpentry Technology Mike Bachman Steven College Director Thaddeus of Membership of Technology

mike@abckeystone.org

• OCT 18

Southwest Region Location: OSS Health, York, PA

• OCT 25

Northeast Region Location: RKL, Wyomissing, PA

• NOV 1

Capital Region Location: Penn Harris Hotel Camp Hill, PA

• NOV 8

Lancaster Region ABC Headquarters Manheim, PA

Construction Management

Mechanical Engineering

Bowling Green State University

Liberty University


TAD DEHAVEN FOUNDER

taddehaven1@gmail.com (703) 407-3982 www.just-a-tad.com

Tell us about your company.

How did you get involved in the industry?

After more than two decades of researching and analyzing the effects of government policymaking on the private sector, I decided earlier this year to offer my abilities directly to businesses and non-profits on a contractual basis. A "jack of all trades," my skillset includes general and academic research, data analysis, and published writing (studies, essays, and op-eds).

As a nationally recognized public policy expert and now a service contractor living in central PA, I had been looking for strong advocates for free enterprise. I firmly believe that public policy should not favor one interest over another. ABC Keystone allowed me to help a critical industry constantly trying to protect itself from being disadvantaged by government policies. It also allowed me to offer my research and analytical skills to companies representing a significant piece of the country's economic backbone.

Through published articles and papers, consultations with policymakers and academics, radio interviews, TV appearances, and congressional testimony. I've been fortunate to have been published in or cited by news outlets nationwide, including the Wall Street Journal, Washington Post, and New York Times. What sets me apart is my deep understanding of the relationship between the public and private sectors, my appreciation of the complexities, and my foresight on the implications of policy changes on individual firms and the broader economy. The public policy environment is the most critical consideration for a business, be it a small start-up or a major corporation.

Did you know? My background is in public policy, but my projects can have little or nothing to do with public policy. For example, I'm researching the feasibility of a productivity software migration being considered by a medium-sized company. What is the best business advice you've ever received? Failure is the best teacher.

For inclusion in future issues of the Merit Shop Spokesman, please send your Membership Spotlight to emily@abckeystone.org 12


Presented by: ABC Insurance Trust

The Excellence in Construction award ceremony is the industry’s leading competition, developed to honor innovative and high-quality Merit Shop construction projects. The award honors all construction team members, including the contractor, owner, architect, and engineer. Join fellow ABC Members, award-winning contractors, design teams, and project owners, and make this your team’s celebration party!

November 9, 2023 | 5:00 pm Hilton Harrisburg • One North 2nd Street, Harrisburg, PA 17101

BECOME A SPONSOR TODAY! What better way to promote your company than in front of 400 ABC Members? Sponsorships are now available for the 2023 EIC Awards, or place an ad in the highly anticipated Excellence in Awards Program! Contact Emily Winslow at emily@abckeystone.org

Tickets Available Tickets are now available at www.abckeystone.org or by scanning the QR Code.

Thank you to our presenting sponsor:


WWW.ABCKEYSTONE.ORG

THANK YOU 2023 C.O.R.E. SPONSORS DIAMOND SPONSOR

SAPPHIRE SPONSOR

PREMIER SPONSORS

PLATINUM SPONSORS

GOLD SPONSORS Acuity Advisors and CPAs, LLP Barley Snyder CB Construction Services, Inc. CV Services, Inc. EHD Garrety Glass, Inc. D.E. Gemmill, Inc.

SILVER SPONSORS

Associated Products Services, Inc. Bertz, Hess & Co. Broderick's Landscape Contracting, LLC Brown Schultz Sheridan & Fritz C Mechanical Services C. S. Davidson, Inc.

BRONZE SPONSORS Commonwealth Fire Protection Co. Fulton Bank Haller Enterprises

Grudi Associates Hess Auctioneers, LLC High Construction Company Horst Construction Co. MVE Group Martin's Flooring M. Potteiger, Inc.

Providence Engineering RKL RSR Electrical LLC Saul Ewing LLP Smucker Company Trout CPA Wickersham Construction & Engineering, Inc.

ECS Mid-Atlantic, LLC Harmon & Davies, P.C. Hursh Painting Co., Inc. Leer Electric, Inc. GR Mitchell, Inc. Paramount Contracting, Inc.

Remco Inc. Silvertip, Inc. Team Lewis Landscaping R.A. Walton & Company, Inc. Weaver Superior Walls The Witmer Group

ONYX Design and Consulting, LLC Stonebridge Financial Group


ASK AN ACCOUNTANT By: Kelly Koman, Manager Large construction contractors must generally recognize income for tax purposes on the percentage of completion method, which recognizes income and costs as the contract is completed. But is there any leeway here? There sure is! Enter the 10% election. With a 10% election, taxpayers do not recognize income or take into account any costs from longterm contracts until the contract is greater than 10% complete. Thus, they are able to postpone recognizing any income in the first year(s) of a contract. Gross profit on these contracts is deferred until the first year that the 10% threshold is met. This is a deferral of income taxes and what we in the tax world would refer to as “temporary difference.” You’ll pay taxes on this contract eventually once you hit that 10% threshold. You’re just kicking the can down the road for a bit. However, this can be a great planning opportunity for construction contractors. Who Does the 10% Election Apply To? Any contractor using the percentage of completion method (PCM) is eligible. Large contractors – any contractor with $25 million or more in gross receipts for the three preceding tax years – this applies to you! If, however, you are using the simplified cost-to-cost method for allocating costs, you cannot make this election. How is the Election Made? The election is made by simply applying the 10% method for all long-term contracts entered into

during the tax year. A separate election statement is not required. Once the election is made, it applies to all future contracts and can only be revoked with permission from the IRS. Are Taxpayers Required to Make this Election? No, it’s not a requirement to make the 10% election. What if I Don’t Want to Make the Election? Are There Any Other Planning Opportunities Available to Me? Yes, there are other planning opportunities available. Taxpayers who are “small contractors” (i.e., less than $25 million of gross receipts for the preceding 3 tax years) have more flexibility in the method they use to account for long-term contracts. The completed contract method (CCM) is a great choice for smaller contractors because it allows taxpayers to wait to recognize any income until the contract is considered complete (over 95% complete). Other options available are the percentage of completion/capitalized cost method (PCCM) and exempt-contract percentage-ofcompletion method (EPCM). Construction contractors have more options to choose from than many taxpayers. Please consult your tax advisor for advice on which method is right for your business. For more information regarding McKonly & Asbury’s Construction experience, be sure to visit the Construction Services page, and don’t hesitate to reach out to a member of the Construction team.

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WELCOME NEW MEMBERS! Thank You for Your Support of the Merit Shop Mission!

A-Z Advertising Specialties Debra Vaccaro, Manager

Classic Rock Fabrication, Inc. Alex Bazdar, CEO

Coleman's Custom Floor Service, LLC Mark Neal, VP/Safety Director

961 Stony Battery Road Landisville, PA 17538

931 Dana Drive Harrisburg, PA 17109h

325 East Stiegel Street Manheim, PA 17545

www.azadvertising.com

www.classicrockfab.com

www.colemanscfs.com

(717) 898-8801

(717) 766-6011

(717) 879-9666

debra@azadvertising.com

alex@classicrockfab.com

mark@colemanscfs.com

Sponsored by:

Sponsored by:

Brian Floyd EPIC Insurance Brokers & Consultants

Pamela Neal B&P Neal Enterprises, Inc.

Ameron Constructon Co., Inc. Alison Kurtz, President 2501 North Atherton Street State College, PA 16803 www.ameronconstruction.com (814) 237-1586 kurtz@ameronconstruction.com Sponsored by: Michael L. Fiore Leonard S. Fiore, Inc. Daniel Hawbaker Glenn O. Hawbaker, Inc.

EVENTS, EDUCATION & TRAINING CALENDAR

Events, Education & Training at ABCKEYSTONE.ORG 18


OCTOBER ABC KEYSTONE EVENTS 10/18 Fall Regional Construction Wake-up Call – Southwest Region Sponsored by McConkey Insurance & Benefits 10/18 Conducting Investigations, Disciplining, & Terminating Employees Part of the Human Resources Management Academy

NO COST

ABC MEMBER SEMINAR

HOT TOPIC

10/18 Microsoft Office Training Excel: Basics 10/19 Executive Leader Contractor Peer Group 10/19 ABC Keystone's Tailgate Party Presented by Barley Snyder 10/23 Rough Terrain Forklift Training 10/25 Fall Regional Construction Wake-up Call – Northeast Region Sponsored by EHD 10/25 Microsoft Office Training Excel: Intermediate I 10/25

Infection Control Risk Management (ICRA)

10/25

S TP 2: Communications

10/26

Mobile Elevating Work Platform (MEWP) Training

NLRB UPDATE (Card Check): Union Organizing Rules Change. What You Need to Know. HYBRID EVENT Members Can Attend In-person or Virtually

October 24, 2023 8:00 am – 10:00 am ABC Keystone 135 Shellyland Road Manheim, PA 17545

NITTANY VALLEY OFFICE 10/12 Executive Leader Contractor Peer Group 10/24 OSHA Recordkeeping 19

REGISTER TODAY! ABCKEYSTONE.ORG


Career Development Education, Safety Training & Networking

NOVEMBER ABC KEYSTONE EVENTS 11/1

Fall Regional Construction Wake-up Call – Capital Region Sponsored by Boyer & Ritter, LLC

11/1 Microsoft Office Training Excel: Intermediate II

11/22

ABC Business Development Peer Group

11/27

Reading Construction Documents Virtual Event

11/29 Construction Estimating II - Virtual Event

11/1 Advanced Blueprint Reading 11/2

ABC Bluebeam® Material Takeoff & Estimates: Basics — Virtual Event

11/6

OSHA 10-Hour Construction

11/7

Dynamic Crew Leadership

11/8

Fall Regional Construction Wake-up Call – Lancaster Region Sponsored by RKL

11/8 Microsoft Office Training Excel: Advanced 11/8

HR Contractor Peer Group

11/9

ABC Bluebeam® Material Takeoff & Estimates: Advanced — Virtual Event

11/9

ABC Keystone's 34th Annual Excellence in Construction Awards Presented by ABC Insurance Trust

11/13

R ough Terrain Forklift Training

11/14

Setting & Achieving GOALS Part of the Leadership Development Series

11/15

E mployee Relations and Engagement Part of the Leadership Development Series

11/16

A BC Bluebeam® Revu for Administrative Professionals Virtual Event

REGISTER TODAY! ABCKEYSTONE.ORG

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HAPPY ANNIVERSARY Congratulations to these members celebrating milestone anniversaries in October 2023! 55 YEARS

Durex Coverings, Inc.

45 YEARS W.C. Eshenaur and Son, Inc.

15 YEARS

5 YEARS

Cheran, Inc.

First Commonwealth Bank

CV Services, Inc.

Keystone Fire and Security SMR Mechanical, LLC

10 YEARS Ephrata National Bank

35 YEARS HVAC Distributors, Inc.

Crane Rentals, LLC

Snavely Forest Products

1 YEAR Construction Specialties IMC Construction

30 YEARS Allison Crane & Rigging, Inc.

M&T Bank Mains Technology Solutions, LLC Smash My Trash - Harrisburg East

BUILD YOUR TEAM!

• Create your own workforce through formalized training. • Increase productivity, safety & profits. • Expand your workers' knowledge base. • Bid work more competitively.

3 21

ABCKEYSTONE.ORG


#ABCMeritShopProud SCHAEDLER YESCO Schaedler Yesco Distribution ranks in the Top 50 Fastest Growing Companies in Central PA Schaedler Yesco Distribution, Inc. is proud to announce that it has ranked 22nd on the Central Penn Business Journal’s annual list of the Top Fastest Growing Companies in Central Pennsylvania. This is the 12th time that Schaedler Yesco has earned this designation. “We are being very strategic about our growth,” explained company president, Farrah Mittel. “By understanding our customers’ needs and their challenges, we have been able to invest in services, locations, inventory and programs that resonate with them.”

Acuity Advisors and CPAs | New Hire Acuity Advisors & CPAs is excited to announce the hiring of Tony Smith as the Firm’s Chief Operations Officer. Tony comes to Acuity with more than 25 years of experience in finance and accounting. Most recently Smith was employed with Warfel Construction as their Vice President of Finance. In his position at Acuity Tony will oversee the day to day operations and ensure alignment with the direction and strategic plan of the Firm. In conjunction with his new role Tony will be joining the leadership team at Acuity. “We are pleased to have Tony join our Firm and leadership team. He brings years of experience in accounting along with leadership skills that will have a positive impact on the Firm,” Said Crystal Gibble, Partner, Acuity Advisors and CPAs. Barley Snyder Consolidates Berks Office Locations

In addition to new services and programs, this year the company announced significant investments in their Western PA and Eastern OH market with new sales and operations structures and a 90,000 squarefoot RDC in Lower Burrell, PA. The company has also shared plans for a significant addition to its Pittston, PA location to create a second regional distribution center. The presenting sponsor of the program, SEK, calculated the nominations and then ranked the companies according to revenue growth over the three-year period. Both dollar and percentage increases were taken into consideration. Schaedler Yesco and the other 49 winners were honored at an awards event on Tuesday, September 12, 2023, where the ranks were revealed.

Barley Snyder has consolidated two of its offices in Berks County to operate in one expanded location. The firm’s Century Boulevard office recently underwent renovations to enlarge and enhance the space. Professionals from the firm’s downtown Reading office, located at 50 North 5th Street, will relocate to the Century Boulevard office which became part of the Barley Snyder footprint in 2022 when the then Leisawitz Heller firm joined Barley Snyder. The expanded space will house a total of 29 attorneys, 15 paralegals and 16 additional staff. “It has always been a priority to serve our clients in the Greater Reading market and we are committed to making our teams feel connected as much as possible,” said managing partner Jeff Lobach. “We are confident that our combined team will work efficiently in this newly renovated location while providing the same high-quality service to our clients.”

For inclusion in future issues of the Merit Shop Spokesman, please send your press releases to: Rebecca Wolf, Director of Marketing & Communications at rebecca@abckeystone.org 22


135 Shellyland Road Manheim, PA 17545

The ABC Keystone C.O.R.E. Sponsorship Program is a convenient, value-added, marketing, events, and training package that allows member companies to increase their exposure in the chapter while saving money and making sponsorship decisions once for the entire year. C.O.R.E. SPONSORSHIP BENEFITS: • Recognition at monthly events • Company name on traveling event banners and table signs • Sponsorship of all major ABC Keystone events • Inclusion in the Excellence in Construction Awards Project Brochure • C.O.R.E. recognition on event name badges • Bar sponsorship at ABC events • FLEX spending credits

FOR MORE INFORMATION: Visit abckeystone.org/core-program/ OR Contact: Emily Winslow

Director of Events & Sponsorships

emily@abckeystone.org


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