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September 2013 reporter

Page 1

Volume 6, No. 9 • September 2013

4410 Fairway Boulevard • Wichita Falls, TX 76308 • P: 940.692.2211 • F: 940.692.2214 www.nthba.com

Dates to Remember

Business Expo/ GM Meeting September 5, 2013 The Forum 2020 Speedway 12 Noon - 1:00 P.M. Lunch sponsored by Guarantee Title Company

• The 4th Annual NTHBA Golf Tournament is scheduled for Thursday, September 26, 2013. See article on page 8 for details. • The incoming 2013/2014 President will be choosing members to serve on committees in September in order to begin meeting in October after the installation. Please contact NTHBA office if you would be interested in serving on a committee. • The Christmas Party is scheduled for December 12, 2013 at the Elk’s Lodge off Seymour Hwy.. Watch your mail, the NTHBA website, and read your emails for more information on things that are happening with the North Texas Home Builders Association.


New Members ABC Supply...........................................Ryan Morgan ABC Supply........................................Victoria Longo

Welcome New Members!

Renewals Charles Barr Building..........................Charles Barr Birkenfeld Electric...........................Gary Birkenfeld Builders Lumber...................................Scott Hollars Builders Wholesale.....................................Rick Belz Klasse Homes......................................Steven Klasse R.J. Wachsman Homes.........................Judy Garrett Steve Lane Construction........................Steve Lane Vic & James Paint Center.....................Bruce Jones Waggoner Carpet.........................Bryan Waggoner Times Record News................................Kim Holly Woodco Supply.........................Charles Vergauwen

Thanks for Renewing!

September Birthdays David Bedingfield..........................................05 David Shoop..................................................07 Scott Hollars.................................................10 Ben Shelton...................................................13

From The President Steven Hinson

THANKS School has started, football season is here, baseball playoffs are around the corner, and the time for new officers to be installed into the North Texas Home Builders is coming up. I just wanted to slow down and say thank you to everyone who made my stint as President easy and very fulfilling. First of all, thanks to all of the members of the association and officers for allowing me to be the president of this great association that does so much to keep our industry moving forward. Also, thank you for allowing me to learn so much at the local and state level. Thanks to all of the members who donated their hard earned time and money to all of our local events and also for getting NTHBA back on the map with all of the donations to the HOMEPAC. I am grateful for the officer’s countless hours that they put in to make this association great and for helping my presidency go smoothly. I would not have had as enjoyable of a time if it wasn’t for each and every one of you. I appreciate all of your hard work and dedication. Lastly, I would be regretful if I did not thank the very person who makes this association tick. A big thanks to Teri and all of her hard work and her genuine concern for this association to grow and become better. Thanks Teri for guiding me through this process and keeping everyone engaged and involved. I believe that I speak for all members in this association when I say we appreciate all your diligence and your ability to hold this association together. Thanks Teri! THANKS TO ALL

Bill Holstead..................................................18 Bruce Jones....................................................21 Randy Pebworth...........................................27

Happy Birthday! 2

PRAY FOR RAIN


Calendar of Events Labor Day (Office Closed).......................... September 2, 2013 Business Expo/General................................ September 5, 2013 Membership Meeting.....................................12 Noon - 1:00PM Membership Meetings &.............................September 10, 2013 Education Committee Meeting.....................................10:00AM Publications and Communications..........September 10, 2013 Committee Meeting........................................................11:00AM Parade of Homes & Special Events.........September 11, 2013 Committee Meeting........................................................10:00AM Government Affairs....................................September 12, 2013 Committee Meeting........................................................11:00AM Budget & By-Laws Committee..................September 17, 2013 Meeting.................................................................................9:15AM

2012 /2013 Officers & Directors President - Steven Hinson Vice President - Barney Brock Associate Vice President - Eric Nelson Treasurer - Martin Litteken Secretary - Tim Sawyer Immediate Past President - Stan Mountain Builder Directors John Harmon - 1yr R.J. Wachsman - 1yr David Bedingfield - 2yr Steven Klasse - 2yr

Assoicate Directors Johnny McClane - 1yr Larry Park - 2yr

Board of Directors Meeting......................September 18, 2013 .............................................................................................11:00AM

State Director - Jose Garcia Alternate State Director - Stan Mountain Life Director - Chuck Dennis

Golf Tournament..........................................September 26, 2013 Champions Course at Weeks Park..............................11:30AM

Executive Vice President - Teri Gibson

Director of Public Works addresses Wichita Falls Water Projects at NTHBA August Meeting The NTHBA held their monthly General Membership meeting on August 1, 2013 at the Kemp Center for the Arts. Public Works Director for the City of Wichita Falls, Russell Schreiber educated members on the Wichita Falls water situation stating drought conditions are taking a toll on the entire state of Texas. He listed the many new projects the city has implemented since 2000 when conditions were worse than what we are experiencing now. These improvements on the treatment side include: • Jasper WTP Expansion Improvements • Cypress Conventional WTP Expansion • High Service Pump Station • Sludge Dewatering Facilities • Chemical Building • Secondary Reservoir Pump Station Expansion • Ground Storage Tank Expansion • Elevated Storage Tank Expansion • Total System Capacity 76 MGD • Administration and Maintenance Facilities • Cost $118 million Improvements on the supply side include: • Microfiltration / Reverse Osmosis Plant • Revised Drought Plan • Increased restrictions • Reduces water loss due to leaks • Reuse water being used to irrigate some parks • Increase budget for water main replacement

• • • •

Lake Kemp supply on-line Elevated drought triggers Secured a Global 210 Reuse authorization Allows reuse water to be used for numerous purposes

Conditions improved and Wichita Falls water was not much of a concern until 2011. Wichita Falls average rainfall is 28.5 inches. In 2011 we received 15.5 inches and over 100 days of over 100 degree weather, not including days that were near 100 degrees. That combined with 2012 only receiving 8.75 inches and having over 50 days of over 100 degree weather has put Wichita Falls Continues on page 4

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Continued from page 3

in the situation it is today. The city became more aggressive and stage 1 drought watch began in August 15, 2011 lake levels stayed at almost 60% until July 2, 2012 when levels dropped to 49.8 % and the stage 2 drought warning was triggered. In September 2012 the Council established stage 3 restrictions and on February 5, 2013 the stage 3 drought emergency was declared and restrictions were enforced. On June 4, 2013 the Council established stage 4 drought restrictions and the city expects they could go into effect at any time. Lake levels have been staying just above the 30% level that would require stage 4 to go into effect. Mr. Schreiber reported other actions that have been taken are: • April 2012 Staff begins to revive 1999/2000 Reuse Project • Met with Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) staff on numerous occasions • New regulations established Direct Potable Reuse (DPR) Indirect Potable Reuse (IPR) • Regulations and level of treatment identified • Consultants hired to evaluate long-term • reuse options • Staff developed an Emergency Reuse Project Now that the Emergency Reuse Project has been established the following steps and timelines have been determined to complete the project: • Temporary Pump Station and pipeline to Cypress Microfiltration/Reverse Osmosis Plant (MF/RO) • Treat water through both membrane plants • Blend water with lake water 50/50 ratio • Treat blended water through conventional treatment plant (water is treated 4 times) • Concept paper developed • TCEQ gave general approval of the concept paper Continues on page 6

Continues on page 5

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Meet Your Members

Commercial Services

3301 Kell Blvd., Wichita Falls, TX 76308

SERVICEMASTER -

John Thompson Mike Sharp Mark Miller

We help you GET CLEAN at work and at home. With more than THE Wood Burning & Gas 4,500 franchises around the Wood & Cast Stone Mantels world, ServiceMaster Clean has Outdoor Kitchens been in the cleaning and disaster restoration business for more than half a century. We help you get clean and Fireplaces by JOHNNY McCLANE Xtrordinair Stone Age Vanguard stay that way, at work and at home. 4101 McNiel Avenue Wichita Falls, TX 76308 Monessen Mendota Town & Country ServiceMaster Clean is proud to be a Six Sigma Isokern Majestic Golden Blount company, demonstrating our commitment to Serving Texas & Oklahoma Service and Installation since 1971 excellence. Each independent ServiceMaster Clean business pledges to uphold the high standards of the www.TheEmberShop.com o 'BY organization, promising to do the job right or do it over. Whether you contract with us for office janitorial services or call us to address fire damage at your home, our service is prompt and the work is done to your satisfaction. ServiceMaster Total Restoration Services (TRS) has the largest network of ServiceMaster Clean service locations throughout Texas and Oklahoma, providing rapid response for residential and commercial properties. From small water, fire or smoke damage, to Home Loans From Your Home Town Bank full project management following a major catastrophe, ServiceMaster TRS has the resources, trained personnel, anbhomeloan.com (940) and professional experience to provide timely and efficient response ... restoring the property owner's, and insurance representatives', peace of mind. No job is too small, or too large! Always to do Business with Association Members! TRS is aRemember full service restoration company from initial event response to final closure of a project. Our BRYAN WAGGONER professional staff receives ongoing technical education, and is certified in all facets of commercial and residential 3907 Kell BoulevarG ‡ WLFKLWD )DOOV ‡ Texas 76308 restoration.We also have master service agreements with (940) 691-3641 select specialty service companies so as to provide Continued on pg 12 )D[ ‡ complete restoration capabilities; may it be "contents" E-Mail bryanl@waggonercarpetone.com (ex. restoration of furniture, cleaning of drapery or clothing, document and electronics drying, etc.), roof

EmberShop

American National Bank

Mortgage Loans 397-2333

Continues on page 8

Debra Clements Mortgage Consultant Mortgage Wells Fargo Home Mortgage 2301 KELL BLVD. WICHITA FALLS, TX 76308 MAC T9904-010 2IÂżFH 'HEUD . &OHPHQWV#ZHOOVIDUJR FRP

Long Name. Big On Service.

1300 Tenth StrFFU t

5


Continued from page 4 2801 Kell East

Phone (940) 692-5734

Wichita Falls

Fax (940) 692-0391

Texas 76308

Lane Landes, Owner

tco@wf.net

Commercial/Residential Plumbing, Builder Sales, Appliances, Lighting

1300 Hatton Road Wichita Falls, TX 76301 Phone: (940) 767-2506

Fax: (940) 761-5563 (888) 266-1387 www.ferguson.com

703 E. Scott Wichita Falls, TX 76308

WINDOWS, DOORS AND MORE!

522 Beverly Drive Wichita Falls, Texas 76309

723-1436

Association Members! BRYAN WAGGONER 3907 Kell BoulevarE t WJDIJUB 'BMMT t Texas 76308

SANDY STROUD President

4301 Jacksboro Hwy. Wichita Falls, TX 76302 www.snbt.net

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(940) 763-2265 Fax (940) 763-2200 sstroud@snbt.net

• • •

Wholesale customers support project Health Board and Health Coalition support project Dr. McBroom MD, Dr. Mattar MD, Dr. Hallford PhD Dr. Dodge PhD, all understand and support the project. • Preliminary Engineering Report submitted to TCEQ • Details entire project • Level of Treatment for each process • Full Scale Testing Protocol • Plans and specifications approved by TCEQ • Project delivery mechanism developed • Financing of project developed • Estimated Cost of $13 million (anticipate recovering the pipe cost of $6 million) • TCEQ approval expected in July 2013 • Construction to begin August 2013 • Full Scale Verification Testing February 2014 • Water in system March 2014 • Project will add 5 to 6 million gallons per day to the water supply (all effluent is utilized) Alternative projects were evaluated and a permanent reuse project with discharge to Lake Arrowhead was deemed the most feasible at $29,000,000.00 with a time frame of 4 to 5 years to complete. The permanent reuse project will move forward regardless of drought conditions. Following is the outline for the Ringgold Reservoir project: • Currently conducting a Feasibility Study • Reservoir size evaluated (firm yield, total acres required) • Dam Site being evaluated (geotechnical analysis) • Environmental conflicts being identified (wetlands, endangered species) • Other conflicts to be identified (roads, wells, etc.) • Report due in late 2013 • Project will take 20 to 30 years to develop • Cost Estimated ~ $400 million In conclusion the Ringgold Reservoir will be a future supply. Emergency and Permanent Reuse Projects are the next water supply that will be developed. These supplies will make the City more drought tolerant, BUT will NOT make the City completely drought resistant. We all need to be thankful because we have been blessed with cooler temperatures and occasional rain showers throughout these summer months. Continue to pray for rain.


Preparing for the Mobile Building Information Modeling (BIM)Evolution By Magnus Therkildsen

It’s impossible to overlook the rise of cloud computing in the construction industry given its ties to mobile technology and building information modeling (BIM). Yet, the way a business approaches its cloud strategy impacts its ability to boost productivity and save money. Consider the following data: U.S. smartphone users totaled 115.8 million at the end of 2012, and that number is expected to reach 176.3 million by 2015, according to eMarketer. Tablet devices will generate more web traffic than smartphones by early 2013, according to Adobe Digital Index. BIM adoption is rising steadily, increasing 13 percent from 2010 to 2012, according to a 2012 National Building Specification survey. As employees begin to access BIM information via the cloud, it’s only a matter of time before they demand access via their mobile devices. Now is the time to establish a roadmap to make the most of the BIM evolution. The right infrastructure for mobile BIM provides construction firms with cost savings, greater productivity through team collaboration, and stronger client relationships through more effective and productive meetings by accessing the most current and accurate project data. However, many construction managers and executives are still figuring out the best way to adopt these new technologies to deliver on their promise of greater efficiency and profitability. The following five-step process can help ensure adoption of a BIM solution is successful.

becomes more heavily used in the coming years. 3. Consider the User Experience Work with the team that’s most likely to access information via the cloud or on a mobile device. Specifically, gather feedback on what it’s like to need quick access to the most current project information on the road and in client meetings. Also factor into the strategy the keyboards and screens used to access information and the type of documents that will be viewed. 4. Discuss Potential Drawbacks Many construction managers debate whether the cloud is a safe and secure place to store important information. To alleviate concerns, consider a hybrid cloud solution in which some information goes to the public cloud and other data stays on premises in existing systems or private clouds. This way, greater control can be retained in the way information is shared and accessed. 5. Map a Mobile Strategy Once a cloud solution is in place, mobile plans can be more clearly defined. Be sure to consider the tools and skills that will be necessary to move the business forward. Use the following criteria to evaluate current technology partners and vendors to ensure they can support future expansion. The ability to accommodate different mobile platforms and devices. The knowledge of BIM and the ability to import related applications to mobile devices. The expertise in tablets and smartphones, which requires additional development beyond tweaking existing BIM or cost estimating systems. While iPhones/iPads and Androids are the dominant mobile platforms today, be sure to accommodate the new Intel-based Windows 8 that will allow existing software to run on a tablet. This hybrid offering will help meet the team’s business needs, ensure a smooth transition and allow employees to maintain a connection in the field. Mobile BIM is poised to allow for greater collaboration and productivity that results in cost savings. However, this is an iterative process. By putting a foundation in place now, the benefits will be realized sooner and the business will stay a step ahead of the competition.

1. Create a Workflow Follow the path of current projects from the initial concept phase to completion. Determine factors that influenced the final outcome, including where the project may have gone off course and any changes requested by the client. Identify and focus on elements that could be improved by BIM. This process provides a realistic workflow that reflects the company’s expertise in real-world scenarios. 2. Identify Other Critical Technology Solutions Consider how BIM works across the company to complement existing and future investments in technology, such as cost estimation tools and third-party pricing databases. For example, cost estimation solutions Magnus Therkildsen is CEO of Sigma Estimates, should be able to support current business requirements, Wakefield, Mass. For more information, as well as BIM. This will set a solid foundation so firms visitwww.sigmaestimates.com. don’t need to do a massive technology overhaul as BIM

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Continued from page 5

repairs, pack-outs and storage of materials, on-site power generation, construction rebuilds, and more! Contact Don Irby at 723-4722 to schedule your property cleaning.

CHRISTMAS IN ACTION -

BEST ELECTRIC COMPANY

DON WRIGHT - President Cell: (940) 636-5641 2606 GRANT STREET WICHITA FALLS, TX 76309 Tel: (940) 696-2758 fax: (940) 691-3757

The Original Since 1921

&RPPHUFLDO ,QGXVWULDO 5HVLGHQWLDO %XFNHW 7UXFN ³$IWHU +RXUV´ (PHUJHQF\ 6HUYLFHV /LFHQVHG %RQGHG

Let Us Check Your Shorts

Commercial/Residential Sales, Service, Installation

OVERHEAD DOOR COMPANY OF WICHITA FALLS 601 Central Freeway East Wichita Falls, Texas 76302

Phone (940) 767-7788 Fax (940) 687-3677

4th Annual 4 Person Scramble Golf Tournament September 26, 2013 at Champions Golf Course at Weeks Park Cash prizes of $400.00 1st Place, $200.00 2nd Place, $100.00 3rd Place Cost: $300.00 for Team & Hole Sponsorship, $240.00 for Team Only, $60.00 for Individual Player price includes lunch, range balls, door prize tickets golf cart and your chance to win a prize on 16 of the 18 holes.

LUNCH SPONSOR: Atmos Energy Mulligans will be sold for $5.00 each with a limit of 4 per team. Chances to hit from the Women’s tee will be sold for $10.00 per team. Chances will be sold for $10.00 for a chance at winning on two prize holes. There will be a men’s GPS watch for the man who hits the straightest shot and a women’s GPS watch for the woman that hits the straightest shot on the designated hole. We will give away a putter on the other designated prize hole to either the man or woman who gets closest to the hole. You may purchase the extras as a package prior to the tournament by sending in an entry for a team and hole sponsorship. The package cost is $70.00 making a grand total of $370.00. Thank you all who have already committed to participate in various ways!

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Christmas in Action Wichita County TX is a 501(c) 3 nonprofit organization rehabilitates neighborhood and communities by repairing the homes of local low-income elderly and low-income disabled homeowners throughout Wichita County. Christmas in Action was originally known as Christmas in April. Bobby Trimble organized the first Christmas in April in Midland, TX. In 1973. He noticed a growing number of neighbors needing help maintaining their homes. Low income elderly and disabled in particular could no longer afford nor were physically able to repair their homes. He recruited volunteers from the community to form a team. The last Saturday of April each year developed into what is now called “Project Day”. Due to Bobby Trimble’s efforts, Christmas in April Wichita County, TX. Inc. was formed in 1983. Since Christmas in April began in Wichita County, over 2000 homes have been repaired. The organization is still 100% volunteers and is debt free. In the summer of 2004 Christmas in April became Christmas in Action. Currently we have completed 63 home repairs...18 plumbing repairs, 3 electrical repairs, replaced and or repaired 17 roofs, 5 ramps, and removed 3 trees that were endangering the homes… As of today 740 volunteers have worked on projects totaling 5418 volunteers hours totaling $108,360.00 in economic impact. The volunteers have spent $25,962.78 in building supplies and materials. We have spent $50,045.84 in contractor services... for a total community impact of $184,368.62. Our second project day is scheduled for September 21. If anyone is interested in volunteering or providing a service please let me know... We have 135 applications on file… Director Cassie Ahearn 696-9393. Although we only have two officially scheduled project days at this time, we will be happy to set up projects that meet you’re schedule. We have outgrown our current location and we are in the process of seeking funding to help purchase the old Allen Construction building @ 1500 MLK... Say a prayer for us...


NTHBA REPORTER MONTHLY ADVERTISING RATES AD SIZE FULL PAGE AD...................................................$300.00 HALF PAGE AD..................................................$150.00 QUARTER PAGE AD...........................................$75.00 3 1/2 X 3..................................................................$50.00 3 1/2 X 2 1/2............................................................$45.00 3 1/2 X 2.....................................................................40.00 3 1/2 X 1 3/4.............................................................$30.00 3 1/2 X 1..................................................................$20.00 1 3/4 X 1..................................................................$15.00

NTHBA Member since 1972

Always Remember to do Business with Association Members! We always have room for more ads! Please contact NTHBA 692-2211 to set up your ad.

2525 Kell Blvd., Suite 100 Wichita Falls, TX 76308

Justin Davis

940.763.2100 (main line) 940.763.2101 (fax)

1204 28th Street Wichita Falls

(940) 766-3291

Continue to pray for our members’ health, families, and businesses as well as the armed forces, our leaders, and our country. We ask for special prayer for Lee Grace, George Medlen and Danny Steed.

“Masters in Home Makeovers” "D@TSHETK )QNM 7NNC $NNQR %KDF@MS +HSBGDM "@SG #@AHMDSR $HRSHMBS #KNRDSR 'NQFDNTR %MDQFX %EEHBHDMS 7HMCNVR %WPTHRHSD FQ@MHSD -@QAKD /OSHNMR "D@TSHETK -@MTE@BSTQDC 3SNMD "QHBJ

(940) 691-4212 !RGKDX@MMD #HQBKD k 7HBGHS@ &@KKR 9


Government Affairs Committee Meets with State Representative James Frank Written by Wayne Pharries- Government Affairs Committee Chairman

State Representative James Frank was kind enough to meet with NTHBA President Steven Hinson and members of the Government affairs committee on August 27th to discuss the recent legislative session and the possible impact on the home building industry. When asked about his first impressions of the state house of representatives and whether he intended to run for the office again in 2014, he said that it wasn’t nearly as bad as he had been led to believe and that he definitely intends to seek re-election. Representative Frank said that he had been very interested in government for some time and a friend suggested to him that he was in the ideal position to make a real difference by running for office. His goal: reduce the role of government in our businesses and day to day lives. While he readily admits that many regulations are desirable, all too often they are designed with protectionist goals in mind and don’t always serve the stated goals of protecting the public. When asked if he considers himself “Pro-Business”, he had a refreshingly honest answer. He said that while many Republicans consider themselves to be “Pro-Business”, he prefers to put the emphasis on free enterprise. He believes the “Pro-business” stance does not always result in less government intrusion and often businesses are in favor of policies that will increase regulations in order to gain advantage over their competitors. Most importantly, Frank says “Pro-Business” is often not in the best interest of the public, while free enterprise benefits everyone, businesses and individuals alike. Representative Frank said that if we want to improve the business climate in Wichita Falls and the surrounding area, we need to get involved and stay involved with state and local government. If we can’t personally run for office we need to support like minded people who can. Phone calls to council members and state level elected officials do make a difference and often turn the tide on important issues. He says we are fortunate to have industry representation at the state level through TAB and HomePAC, but that we should also be personally involved and make sure they are on the same page with our membership. In conclusion, I think all committee members came away from the meeting knowing that Representative Frank truly has the interest of the 69th District as his top priority. Representative Frank will be our Guest Speaker for the November 7, General Membership Meeting so please mark your calendars and plan to attend.

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940-782-3805

8011 Se\PRXU +Z\ q Wichita Falls, TX 76310

LANDMARK

TITLE COMPANY Your title needs handled promptly (XUHND &LUOFH ‡ :LFKLWD )DOOV 7;

RWP SERVICES

2801 Midwestern Parkway, Suite 200 Wichita Falls, Texas 76308 SKRQH ‡ ID[ ZZZ IVWEQN FRP

CHRI6 ‡ DOCKMA1 ‡ COMPANY

Martin Litteken, Jr., P.E.

2071 FM 171 Wichita Falls, Texas 76305 Phone & Fax (940) 767-9710 Cell (940) 704-3471 Jerry Fillmon, Owner/Manager

2406 Kell Boulevard Wichita Falls, Texas 76309-5326 Phone: (940) 322-6450 Fax: (940) 723-6006

ACME BRICK COMPANY (940) 691-9679 office (940) 691-2560 office (940) 691-9678 fax hnewton@acmebrick.com

Harold Newton Branch Manager

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Fencing

Custom Gates Randy Pebworth 2 ) ‡ ‡ UZSHE #JPDLO FRP Landscaping

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6701 Seymour Hwy. Wichita Falls, TX 76310

Delinda Dodd Mortgage Team Member Continued on pg 5

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Hades brought to Hotter N Hell written by Maj. Sam Ulmer

On 24 August, the 363d Training Squadron brought "Hades" to the Hotter-N-Hell, with the help of some of NTHBA's finest members. Thompson Brothers Construction and Rowland & Donnell Homes donated some lumber and other materials to the 363d Training Squadron's volunteer group led by Capt Dan Connors, so that they could create a "Hades" theme, complete with 363d Technical Training students dressed as Zombies, the Director of Operations, Capt Jeff Erwin, with his horse as the "Headless Horseman, and the Commander, Maj Sam Ulmer dressed as the devil himself. Not only did the 11,000+ riders rave over the theme design and costumes, but more than 40 volunteers from the 363d Training Squadron served bananas, oranges, watermelon, pineapple, grapes pickle juice, and over 1,000 gallons of PowerAde and water at rest stop #2 along the 100K/100 Mile route...all with a 3 hour timeframe! It was a great time for the riders and volunteers as the riders waited in line to have their pictures taken with the Devil's Crew. One 19 year old technical training student described the experience as, "something I have never realized before in a community. I guess it has always been there, but the relationship between the local community and the Air Force here is something that makes me proud to say that I have served at Sheppard AFB." Maj Ulmer also wanted to again say special thanks to Teri and all those at the NTHBA for being such great friends and "adopters" as the relationship between the 363d Training Squadron and the NTHBA truly does feel like family. Who knows what next year's theme will be...but you can guarantee that NTHBA will always be invited to be a part of the fun!!


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September 2013 reporter by Teri Gibson - Issuu