The Dirt - April 2016

APRIL 2016
Building Better Communities

S P R I N G T R A I N I N G n e arl y c o m pl e t e

6 | Human Resources MONTHLY COMMUNICATOR
12 | Photo Spread
20 | Industry Trends
22 | Pickle People

in History

Projects

Circa 1970’s & 2000

Team Elmer’s started out as Elmer’s
Crane & Dozer . How Elmer
Schaub’s wife, Edna, decided to
name the business had a lot to do
with the work the company did and
the equipment at hand. In the early
days, the Conservation District would
help landowners pay for a portion of
excavation if they added ponds to their
property. Elmer would use his crane to
dig the pond and his dozer to push off
the material along the new bank line.

Pictured above right, Leo Richard
operates one of the early dragline
cranes to install a new pond, circa late
1970s.

Team Elmer’s added asphalt paving
in 1988-89. Pictured below, entering
a new century, Team Elmer’s paved
for the City of Traverse City over the
Eighth Street Bridge.

Building Better Communities Since 1956 THIS ISSUE 12 > Photos
Esphalt™ • Excavation • Concrete • Cranes 14 > Safety
3 > Our President 15 > Project of the Month
4 > Aggregates 16 > Cranes/Rigging
5 > Communications 17 > Trucking
6 > Human Resources 18 > Chaplain’s Corner
7 > Health Benefits 19 > Mechanics
8 > TC Excavation 20 > Industry Trends
9 > Hillman 22 > Pickle
10 > Concrete
11 > Asphalt

S pring H as S prung !

Hey, TEAM! What a month! Training, refresh. Thanks to Max Bott, Eric Sanborn, Jeff Saxton,
training, training, sprinkled with the new Mike Flaugher, Nick Broad and all involved to make this
insurance roll out, equipment annuals class great! Was awesome to see the foremen taking time
getting to crunch time, an office remodel, to train and explain details needed to make us better as a
weld shop still having plenty to do (hey TEAM! Great to see!
Mark!?) oh… and lots of jobs starting.
But wait, Mother Nature is not done yet, If you have not heard by now, Steve Ward is leaving us.
challenging us with one last blast! He received a great opportunity to go to work for CAT in
Tennessee, as their safety director. A dream of his, as it
What a crazy month, both at work and in a lot of your is closer to family. It just occurred a little sooner than he
homes! With much going on at work, it was great to see planned. We will miss him!
so many of you outside of work and getting time to chat
at training and the insurance roll outs. Thanks to Eric Nice job to Tonya, AJ, Josh, and Toni for doing such
Ritchie for working so hard to keep us in free health care, a great job on the newsletter. Getting to be a book of
making several changes along the way to serve us better. information, and it looks great! THANK YOU!
Remember, your feedback is crucial to making it a plan
that works for you! Stay informed, stay involved as this Mechanics and welders are putting in long hours to get all
should help in understanding the plan. If all else fails, CALL the equipment ready for almost a two week jump start from
LISA! ☺(44 North) norm. Thanks to all of them for working so hard… so we
can! Some crews have begun clearing on projects and the
With all the training going, it’s crazy we made it 60 years foundation crew is behind already. With frost laws coming
without too much. Although, with all the rule changes, it off already, we are looking to see most everyone back the
seems the only thing constant lately IS CHANGE. It is week of the 4th with asphalt starting the 18th, maybe a little
so awesome to see all the talent we have in the rooms sooner…☺ We have a packed spring and are starting
when we get together! All the different things we can do “suicide watch” for the estimators that bid anything that
and accomplish its PRETTY FREAKIN' COOL! Thanks to needs to start before July BECAUSE WE CAN’T SAY NO!
EVERYONE getting it done! Not only do we have to get ☺
our regular jobs done, we throw in an office remodel that
feels more like musical chairs! We just need a cake for a With all that going on, God reminds us how short life is
prize, yet it's great to see everyone jumping in and getting and throws a wrench into our day. We may or may not
it done! Thanks to our IT department, James Martin, Trevor understand why, the timing, or what He is thinking, but
Schlicht, and the new guy Russ McGinley. They have so know this. God has nothing but the best in mind for us!
much going on behind the scenes and are working extra Praying for many of you with so much going on in your
hard to keep the information going! With new pit scales lives lately! Amazing what prayer can fix! God is Good.
in several locations, office moves/remodels, new batch May we continue to keep our eyes on Him! Please
computers, and a new version of Spectrum rolling out continue to pray for Buck Mercer from Beaverton. Went in
soon, they have plenty to do! Way to go, guys! Thanks for to get checked for a headache and was rushed to surgery
all you do! for an aneurysm. He is still fighting and in a coma. Until
next month, go out and attack the day with an enthusiasm
The “Dirt Training” class was pretty amazing! Over 110 unknown to mankind! Stay safe and God Bless!
guys for two days with 5 stations taking time to train and
–Troy
3

Aggregate

Pits Are Open, Almost!

Welcome April and the start of the Best
Summer Ever, The Sequel!
How was everyone’s spring break? Sun-
burned, yes, but no snow sure is nice!
Getting ready to gear up and get going a
little early if the weather allows! Some
of the crews are back and working to
get things set up and ready to rock. Or
should we say crush rocks!
The jaw will be in the paint shop hopefully this week. We
should be crushing R.A.P. in the yard and have M-72 open
in a couple of weeks. Tim and crew are winning the fight
with spring runoff. It was a losing battle for a while with
three pumps... see pictures on right. Joe Herman and crew
have the scale piers and pads set and ready for the new
scales at M-72 and Nickerson. We have some custom
crushing this year at some of the county pits. Hope every-
one is rested up as they are calling for a long hot summer.
Hope your Easter was filled with fun, food and family.
It’s a great day to have a great day. Be safe and smile.

– Todd

Excavation division training in Traverse City, Michigan.

4

Communications

Celebrating Our 60th With Free Stuff!

April! This month is going to be BUSY and the Heavy Construction booth talent and expertise. This is
that’s a good thing! Spring training was our opportunity to talk to those young minds considering a
amazing to witness. Thank you to café career in the construction trades.]
staff Cathy, Jeff, and our pinch hitter,
Kim, for keeping up with our changes! It Building Tomorrow will expose students to exciting careers
is greatly appreciated! The office changes in the construction industry and get them inspired about
are moving at high rates of speed. The their futures!” We are glad to be a part of this event.
talent that is keeping all systems moving forward is humbling
to watch! Just trying to keep up with all the talent! Our driveway give away will be held April 1 -15 this year. Tell
your friends and neighbors to sign-up. (Sorry employees
The communications department is laying out the year and and immediate family - you are not eligible to win.) Entries
what projects we are documenting in an attempt to stay are possible via our Facebook page or on our website at
focused and use our time wisely. There are not enough www.TeamElmers.com.
hours in the day to document all the wonderful things that
our crews do. Thank you, AJ, Josh, and Toni, for keeping up Speaking of websites, our updated website should be rolling
with the workload. Explaining healthcare in simple terms is out soon. While our website was already mobile friendly, we
a CHALLENGE! Thanks for being up to the task! wanted to improve usability and navigation on our site via
cell phone. A Nielson study claims there are 228 million cell
As for the rest of the season, please let us know ahead of phones in the U.S. alone. That is mind boggling! While data
time on projects, concrete, cranes, excavation, or Esphalt™, and technology are becoming more and more integrated,
that may be unusual or of interest to the public. We have we are designing our resources to meet these needs.
a checklist available online that we can send to fill out and
help gather information so we can stay ahead of the flood In case you didn’t know, we are celebrating our 60th
of information. Just ask us for a copy! anniversary this year. We are having a monthly drawing for
all those who are signed up for our enewsletter. If you have
In addition to the shop wrapping up annuals, the start of family, friends, (or even yourself ) with an email address,
several crews, concrete accelerating, and trucks moving, sign up online for our Team Elmer’s e-newsletter and you
we'll be participating in the Building Tomorrow Construction will be automatically entered to win. We are giving away
Career event at the NMC lab building on Aeropark Drive. prizes every issue. The first is $250 towards services at
Team Elmer’s. And the best is yet to come!
As written in their online descriptions, “Building Tomorrow is
a hands-on construction career and college readiness event Also, remember those who would like free tickets to the
for high school students on April 21-22, and open to the Big Ticket Festival, visit www.BigTicketFestival.com/team-
public April 23. elmers-ticket-request. Questions or problems with the site,
please contact Kristopher Klay at 989.731.2808.
During this unique experience, students will find out
what it’s like to be an architect, a project manager, a Until next month, be the change you want to see in the
mechanical engineer and more — direct from the people
who do these jobs every day! [Team Elmer’s is providing world! – Tonya

5

Human Cindy Karker
Resources 231-943-5544 Ph•[email protected]

Jennifer Flick
231-943-5533•[email protected]

Kelsey Baker
231-943-5577•[email protected]

Training Schedule Tobacco Use & Other Items

** Please LOOK for informational cards in the US Dependents Up To Age 26 Tobacco Use
mail for your scheduled training dates. Planning a
move? Please let us know your new address so we Your dependents may be eligible under *** Reminder to ALL employees, for
can continue to get you important information. HealthCare Reform to be added or re- the health, comfort and safety of our
Questions regarding training? Please contact enrolled in Elmer’s health plan. employees, Tobacco use of any kind is
Jennifer Flick or Kelsey Baker. prohibited in all Elmer’s buildings, vehicles
Who can enroll? and jobsites.
April 1: Asphalt Division Spring Safety Training Eligible dependents by birth, marriage, The Tobacco-Free Workplace policy
April 12: MSHA Make-up Class legal adoption or guardianship up to age applies to:
April 13: New Driver’s Training Class (anyone who 26:
has obtained their CDL in the past 1-2 years) • All areas of buildings occupied by
April 18-22: NCCCO Rigger/Signal Person Training • Newly eligible adult dependents whose company employees
April 25th-29: NCCCO Crane Certification coverage previously ended
• All company job sites
Returning To Work • Adult dependents who were previously • All vehicles owned or leased by the
denied coverage
The 2016 season is here. When you return to company
work, Human Resources needs to know. There are • Individuals who were not eligible for • All visitors (customers and vendors) to
necessary steps to ensure your pay check, cell phone, coverage because their dependent
uniforms, and other necessities are in order. Let us coverage ended before they turned 26 company premises
make your return to work flawless this season! • All contractors and consultants and/or
Note: Dependent eligibility is no longer
Wellness Wrap Up limited by financial dependency, marital their employees working on company
status, or enrollment in school. premises
OnSite Wellness & Team Elmer’s would like to thank • All temporary employees
all of you for coming out and completing your 2016
wellness requirements. Those of you who achieved Smoking is permitted in:
the 5 out of 6 wellness criteria requirements will receive • Parking lot located on the south end of
discounted medical group health benefits. If you did company building. Please do not litter.
not, there is still time to achieve the criteria.
Job Openings Laborer Asphalt Traverse City
If you are unsure if you met the 5 out of 6 criteria please Equipment Operator Asphalt Traverse City
go to: www.onsitewellnessllc.com and then click on the Current Job Openings: Equipment Operator Dirt Traverse City
“Client” tab. Login to your OnSite Online account (with Safety Director Traverse City Laborer Dirt Traverse City
the user name and password that you created). Then Lube Technician Traverse City Equipment Operator, Laborer or Pipe Layer
click the “My Incentive” tab. From there you can see Transportation Assistant and Trainer Petoskey/Gaylord MI or Hillman, MI
the criteria you did not meet for your 2016 discounted Laborer-Sand and Gravel Pit
medical group health benefit. Spring Openings: Traffic Regulator Traverse City
RediMix Driver Tri-City Quality Control Technician (Testing) White
If you have any questions, please call Senika at RediMix Driver Traverse City Cloud
616-309-2776. Please note, if mailing information, RediMix Driver White Cloud
Onsite Wellness has moved! Their new address is: RediMix Driver Beaverton Internship Openings: (June-August)
3020 Charlevoix SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49546. Truck Driver (Gravel Train) Traverse City Photographer, Communications TC, MI
Assistant Truck Washer Traverse City Writer/Archivist, Communications TC, MI
6

Wellness & Inspiration

Important Benefit Changes BENEFIT

Thank you to all who took the time to attend one of Team Elmer’s benefits ENROLLMENT
meetings. Knowing how to use your benefits and what is covered under your
benefits will save you time and money. Detailed benefit enrollment
information has been sent
For those of you who did not attend; in an effort to keep heath care benefits cost out. If you did not attend one
as low as possible, Team Elmer’s has a few significant changes this year that of the benefits enrollment
will enhance your benefits. meetings you must complete
the required enrollment
Changes: materials you received in
the mail, even if you do
We have decided to no longer offer the BCBS PPO options as we have in the not have any changes this
past. This year you have one choice for your health care benefits – BCN HMO. year, to maintain your group
health benefit coverage. Any
With the elimination of the BCBS PPO plan, we have enhanced benefits with the employee that does not turn
BCN HMO option to include: in the required forms will
automatically be removed
• Allergy testing and therapy - covered 100% from Team Elmer’s benefits
(previously it was 50% after the deductible) coverage effective May 1.
You will be eligible to enroll
• Emergency Room - $250 Copays per visit in May 2017, our next open
(previously deductible based) enrollment period.

• Physical Therapy - 60 visits per calendar year Please contact Cindy if you
(previously, within 60 consecutive days per medical episode) have any questions regarding
your group health benefits.
• Maternity Services - 30% copay
(previously, deductible applied plus 20% copay)

Due to the rising cost of insurance, a few benefits have been changed to allow
Elmer’s to continue to offer a “no cost” BCN-HMO insurance option as well:

• 30% coinsurance (20% previously)

• $30 copays for office visits to doctors, Urgent Care and physician referrals,
and chiropractic etc. ($20 previously)

• RX coinsurance $10/$30/$60/$80/20%/20% for thirty day supply
(last year $4/$15/$40/$80/20%/20% for a thirty day supply)
Please contact 44North for information on possible RX cost assistance programs.

2016 Holiday Schedule • Labor Day: September 5, 2016 - Paid Day Off
• Thanksgiving: November 24, 2016 - Paid Day Off
Emergency repair and snowplow crews will remain on-call during • After Thanksgiving: November 25, 2016 - Unpaid Day Off
Holiday Schedule. • Christmas Eve-Eve: December 23, 2016 - Unpaid Day Off
• Christmas Day (Observed): December 26, 2016 - Paid Day Off
• Memorial Day: May30, 2016 - Paid Day Off • New Year’s Day (Observed): January 2, 2017 - Unpaid Day Off
• Independence Day: July 4, 2016 - Paid Day Off
• Company Picnic: July 30, 2016 - 11 am - 4 pm

7

Excavation

SPRING TRAINING A SUCCESS!

Spring is in the air, customers are It’s Spring Break time for most schools. If you are
itching to go, and the troops are traveling somewhere, have a fantastic time, enjoy
getting restless. The federal brown your families, and get rested up and ready to roll.
bat rules and early thaw put us in a Please make sure CB has you as off for that time.
position where it was necessary to get numerous With all of the projects started, it will be a little bit of
projects started in March this year. If you are not a challenge making sure we have things covered.
aware of the brown bat rules, it basically requires all
clearing to be performed in the winter months while Workload continues to build and the project
the endangered bats are hibernating. We currently managers are working their tails off to keep up with
have four projects with some degree of clearing everything on the bidding schedule. I am not going
that has to be done by April 1st. We are currently to list all of the projects currently out for bid but I
working on three of them and will start the fourth made a list last week at a project managers meeting
soon. The early thaw has numerous residential and there were 26 of them. That is a lot of projects
and commercial builders wanting basements and for six guys to handle yet each challenge is always
footings dug so that they can get an early start on met with an affirmative nod and professional attitude
the season. In short, things are already rolling and to dig in and get it done. A big THANK YOU to all
the instant all frost laws get removed we will be in the project managers for the long hours and late
full construction season mode. nights they are putting in to get things handled so
well.
Elmer’s Institute of Technology was the 21st and 22nd
of March. I hope everyone was able to learn some Until next month, keep calm and dig on.
new things and get back up to speed on skills they
have not had the opportunity to use for a – Max
while. It is always great to see the entire
Dirt Team together sharing and learning
from each other.

Hazwoper training was the week of the
28th and I have scheduled CDL training
for those who don’t have a CDL for
Saturday the 16th of April. Please take
advantage of this great opportunity to
pick up the knowledge and practice you
will need to pass the test the first time
around.

Excavation division training on power lines by Cherryland Electric.
8

Sun, Snow, Rain, and Spring?

The shop is coming along nicely with all of the

Sun, 70 °, snow, rain, 30°, wind equipment and truck repairs. There’s a little light

and back to sun. It must be April at the end of the tunnel for completion. Thank you,

in Michigan. It’s kind of funny. As Brian Smith and crew, for all your hard work!

the snow melts and the sun comes out, my phone

lights up with the crews calling and wanting to know CDL Trainees: The test truck is here in Hillman so

when they can come back to work. I appreciate the you can get started training. We have guys on staff

enthusiasm but we need to be patient. We need to at the shop who can help and give pointers as to

wait for frost laws to come off so we can move the what to expect during the driving test. We also have

appropriate equipment CDL drivers to accompany

to the site, truck full “Most of the successful people you as you practice on the
loads to the projects, I’ve known are ones who do road. No excuses; get in
and get rid of the mud so here and get started.
we can be efficient and

productive from Day 1 more listening that talking... Until next month, work hard
of season start. It looks You don’t have to blow out the and have fun!
like that could happen other fellow’s light to let your
real soon. – Mike

I would like to take own shine.”
this opportunity to

introduce Paul Janusky, Bernard M. Baruch
Luke Basel, Jason

Black, Zach Smith

and Justin Mansfield,

Team Elmer’s newest

employees working in our east and northern

regions. Please welcome them, take the time to

teach them the Elmer’s way and help them mature

within the company. They are an intricate part of our

necessary growth to protect our service areas.

Tim Leeck and crew are getting ready to start
blowing things up again. The crusher is set and
ready to start crushing. Inventories are getting low
so the timing should be perfect.

Crews break ground on the Boyne City to Charlevoix Trail.

9

Concrete

What’s In The Mix? Spring!

I can’t believe how quickly

the season is looking to

begin. It’s time to get off
the couch, turn on Sweatin’
To The Oldies, do a few

stretches and put in some

treadmill time because we

are about to hit the ground RUNNING. It

has been staying fairly cool but frost laws

are coming off so I know it won’t be long

when all divisions are busy.

Thank you , Dan, Jeff and Kyle, for Pictured above and below, Traverse City Team Elmer’s concrete
entertaining so many different groups of crew supplies footing mix for the Great Lakes Children’s Museum’s
customers at The Lodge this winter. It is new Mini-Mac Bridge leading into their building. The bridge
a good time to take a breath and get to should be ready sometime in April.
know the people we do business with every Pictured above, East Tawas Library is poured from our Oscoda
day. Thanks also go out to the sales staff plant. Way to go, Team!
and plant managers for doing lunches and
taking time this winter to catch up with
customers. As Butch says, “People sell to
people.” I have always found that saying
very simple but absolutely true.

We have been seeing new iron in the yard
and look to start passing out new mixers
to plants. Please run them like you own
them! Our name and our pride is on
every one of them, new or old, so set the
standard.

We continue to pray and send positive
thoughts to Buck Mercer and his family.
We hope for a speedy recovery and please
know, Buck, WE ARE ALL BEHIND YOU!

New Opportunities Come With Dedicated

Effort. – jason

10

Asphalt

Spring Asphalt Training April 1st, No Fooling!

Two Snowy
Owls Take a
Break at The
Asphalt Plant

Stockpiles
During Spring

Migration!

Happy Spring, everyone! It sure word must be out that we’re really good at what we
is nice to see the sun appear and do! Dave, Ryan, and Steve continue to bid work and
the snow disappear. We were line up jobs for this season. I think the latest project
even lucky enough to get a few we successfully bid was more paving for the City
60-degree days just to tease us.  of Traverse City to be constructed prior to Cherry
Spring is here but, being northern Festival. You know what it’s like once we get going.
Michigan, you know the occasional Cherry Festival may seem like a long way off but it
winter storm will still have to kick has a way of sneaking up on us and it will be here
up. Frost laws are lifting and we’ll all be back to work before you know it. 
soon. I’m thinking a soft start with a grade guy or two
in the first weeks and hopefully paving by April 18th. I can’t wait to see everyone at our division spring
training April 1. It should be a fun, educational day. 
The nicer weather gets folks thinking about their Please come with lots of questions! We will have
driveways and the overall workload continues to a few speakers here to help talk you through roller
grow. Our private and commercial customer calls patterns, centerline joint density, and just the overall
are coming in like rapid fire.  Sonny and Rod are fundamentals of paving. 
both back from winter break and are fielding calls
left and right. It’s great to have them back.   It will be I’ll let you know what we saw at The World of Asphalt
nice to get started early so we can get a jump start
on the volume of work we’ll have to complete. The –show. Until then, stay safe. Brian

11

WATER TANK SEPERATOR
Above and below, Team Elmer’s crews work to unload a Water Tank Separator that will separate debris and
keep the Au Sable River clean in Gaylord, Michigan. Our 75 ton frost law crane makes the trip and lift.

M-113 CLEARING
Pictured right page, crews work to clear the right-of-
way on M-113 prior to the April 1st deadline. Due to
the endangered northern long-eared bat, trees must be
cleared prior to the species coming out of hibernation.
WAY TO GO, TEAM!
12

13

Safety

My Last Newsletter...

Spring has finally sprung and we know MIOSHA
that change is in the air. Work is ready to
start, tourists have begun to invade and MIOSHA has already
consistent warm weather makes a return. visited two of our sites
this season with one site
This spring marks a big change for me and I am moving receiving three citations.
forward with a lot of mixed emotions. I have accepted a new
job as Safety Manager with Caterpillar of East Tennessee. I These citations should be
start in the middle of April and the corporate office where I will contested with the hopes of
be is based in Knoxville with satellite sites all around the state. having them dropped.
This area of Tennesee has always been where I wanted to
retire, so my new position will help me set up for just that. I I will work with the Project
will be closer to family and I look forward to that, now that my Manager or the new Safety
older boys are beginning to think of starting families of their Director to work through the
own. My wife will be staying up here for a few months as our process of how to contest.
youngest graduates high school and she sells the house. If
you know anyone who would like a three bedroom, two bath
home in Maple City, look me up. ☺

I have met some great people while working at Elmer’s and
made some good friends. I will miss you all. My hope is
that everyone will continue to work safe and watch out for
one another. I would be sad if I heard that one of my former
coworkers had been severely hurt or injured.

I will continue to be part of Elmer’s for the next few
months to make sure whomever is hired for this position
will have a smooth transition. If you have questions that
require my assistance, I would be very happy to help
you.

It appears my last couple of weeks here will be busy
finishing training for the crews, so I may not have the
time I would have liked to say good bye to the outside
plants and offices. Please be assured I will miss you
and only hope for the best for you and the company!

Remember, be safe in all you do!
– Steve
Forever in my heart,

14

Project of the Month

Clinch Park Repairs

• Team Elmer’s crews install a new breakwall
section to repair wave damage at Clinch Park
Marina and Boat Ramp. Crews also will rebuild the
stone block walls and reinstall the kayak launch.
• The $508,000 repair contract includes repairs to
the splash pad and tunnel drains which use a dry
well system to keep the splash pad area free from
back-ups.
• The work is scheduled to be complete by mid
May.

15

Cranes & Rigging

Trusses Set In Spring... and MSHA inspections on our cranes, boom trucks,
and fork lifts. The trailer shop has been performing
Frost laws are lifting! When they were the annuals on all of our trailers. Our Nelson trailer
on, we only had one crane available saga continues. The first eight-axle Nelson trailer is
to legally run up and down the roads. here. It looks like crane and rigging will get to use it
That sure kept Rod with his 75-ton before Mr. Peace uses it in asphalt. We have just
crane busy. Both of our big cranes completed converting one four-axle Nelson trailer to
were placed at Saint Mary’s and a six-axle trailer.
Natural Gas to handle the work load
during frost laws. As soon as all frost laws come off, We set a lot of trusses in March which is unusual for
we will get to additional projects as quickly as possi- the time of year. The housing market seems to be
ble. picking up. We moved a large number of machines
out of Destaco in Charlevoix to their new plant in
We want to learn from other’s experiences ; specif- Tennessee. Other clients include Pro Act Services in
ically, a local crane company that had an outrigger Ludington, St Mary’s Cement in Charlevoix, and Fol-
collapse through a septic tank and tip the unit on kardt in Traverse City.
its side, coming to rest on the house it was working
on. Luckily, no one was hurt. We want to ensure We have some training left with MIOSHA, Hazwoper,
our project managers and crews are locating septic and NCCCO crane and rigging certifications.
tanks, dry wells, underground hazards, drain fields or
void space, which may undermine the integrity of the Please travel safe with your families and have fun!
equipment.
– Kent
Doug in the mechanic shop is doing the OSHA

90 DENNISFASHBAUGH 1-Apr 609 KIRSTENBOTT 14-Apr 597 CHESTERTAYLORJR 21-Apr

1895 JACOBFISCHER 1-Apr 1495 JASONHAGIE 14-Apr 561 ERICSEABURG 22-Apr

HAPPY BIRTHDAY 1441 ERICSANBORN 5-Apr 1639 JAMESSEAVEY 14-Apr 1755 COLINKEMMIS 23-Apr

Wish these 1277 RODBROAD 7-Apr 1943 ANTHONYDERKS 14-Apr 1952 ANDREWMILLER 23-Apr
March babies a
big Happy 1527 DAVIDSMITH 7-Apr 1656 STEVENCRANE 15-Apr 1544 TODDLAMP 26-Apr
Birthday!
1631 ERICSWISHER 7-Apr 230 JEFFSAXTON 17-Apr 1753 GREGNEEDHAM 26-Apr
16
1140 JAMESFLORY 8-Apr 1385 ZACHBROAD 17-Apr 1955 JEREMYBENDER 26-Apr

1628 MICHELLEESTEE 8-Apr 1534 MARYBUREK 17-Apr 1504 MICHAELMARKBY 27-Apr

1905 TROYGAWNE 8-Apr 1763 BRYANSPRAY 17-Apr 932 TONYBAMBERGER 28-Apr

1550 BILLYKRAJNIAK 9-Apr 1546 SHAWNBARRIE 18-Apr 1624 BRYANDOMKE 28-Apr

503 WANDABEARD 11-Apr 1671 ANDREWSCHRAM 19-Apr 1927 CHRISHERMAN 28-Apr

802 DANSTREHLKE 11-Apr 192 BLAIRHINDMAN 20-Apr 937 DAVIDGILBERT 29-Apr

1941 ROBERTWIDRIG 11-Apr 1996 KENNETHFORRESTLY 20-Apr 131 SONNYELEY 30-Apr

345 CARLCHRISTIANSON 13-Apr 31 RICHARDTHOMAS 21-Apr 1885 DARRELLWONSEY 30-Apr

Trucking

Frost Laws Lift. problem or SAFETY issues with that vehicle; brakes,
tires, lights, suspension, attachments, plates,
Welcome, Spring! The above-freezing insurance certification, mirrors, windshield & wipers,
temperatures at night have been a big fluid leaks, load securement , etc. If something is
plus getting the frost out of the road wrong that you or Team Elmer’s could receive a ticket
beds. Now it’s just a matter of letting for, you need to notify the mechanics and have the
the road beds settle and getting the problem fixed before the asset goes on the road.
water to drain out from under them. Don’t think you can push your luck. It is for your safety
When this happens, the counties and the safety of the public that we must follow the
will be taking the road restrictions off. If you look at rules. Thanks for keeping it safe.
the County Road Association of Michigan website,
Seasonal Weight Restrictions, you will see a map I would like to recognize Traverse City driver,
of Michigan with the county boundary lines outlined Gary Duff, for being a SAFE & SMART DRIVER,
across the state. Each day you will be able to match someone who others witnessed practicing courteous,
which counties are off, typically starting with the responsible, and educated driving habits during one
southern end of the state and progressing farther and of the March snowstorms. Gary was in Truck 1230
farther north. Lakeshore counties usually lead the with a loaded set of trains waiting to make a left hand
way because of warmer air and wind. turn at the traffic light on M-72 onto North US-131
in Kalkaska. As the traffic light was changing, it was
The general concensus among various county road his turn to go but Gary immediately stopped instead
commissions is some drivers will be getting back of pulling into the intersection. He noticed that an
to work earlier than normal. My prediction is road opposing vehicle was not going to be able to stop for
restrictions will be coming off here in the north just the red light and, sure enough, that car slid into the
after Easter. We call drivers back as trucking needs intersection without damage because Gary stayed put
begin to pick-up and according to seniority. We figure in his lane to avoid a sure accident. The person who
on keeping them busy and not laying them back off relayed the story to us was thankful it was an Elmer’s
until fall; that’s the goal anyway. Now, just because driver in the truck, paying attention and not in a rush.
road restrictions are probably off by the time you read Way to go, Gary!
this does not necessarily mean everyone is back to
work. Jobs have to get started, usually gaining more Get your honey-do list done because you will be
and more need for trucking as they get further into the going back to work soon. I am looking forward to
job. Plant yards are still well stocked from the winter. another safe and busy season. Let’s make it as good
Until the asphalt plant and concrete plants begin to as last year, if not better.
use up materials we’ll have to wait to start restocking
them, just the opposite of fall when the plants slow –jim
down and we push to get inventories built up.

A Reminder to All Team Elmer’s Employees: Before
taking a vehicle on a public road, you MUST do
an inspection to make sure there is NO ticketable

17

chaplain’s corner

Switching Gears to one of our mechanics, Dan Matznick, while he was working on
an engine. During our conversation, Dan took the time to explain
Greetings! I hope you had an opportunity to enjoy the Easter to me how important it was for the engine gears to operate
holiday. Truly, the death and resurrection of Jesus is the most properly; that sometimes when gears get worn they need to be
amazing event in history. changed. In conversation, when someone is referring to adapting
to change, they may use the term “switching gears”. The spring
April has to be one of my favorite months. To me, it is a season is a time of switching gears for many of us. For those of
reminder that we have entered into the season of spring when you who work year-around, it may mean working more hours. For
the outdoors comes alive. The green grass pushes up from the those of you who work seasonally, it is the time of year when the
ground. The trees are budding out. It is not unusual to spot a majority of your money is made, so you are most likely putting in
baby fawn on the road behind our house. Best of all, the Tigers as many hours as you can. For new employees, you are working
begin a new baseball season. I love spring. through the mystery of a new job where you are trying to learn
a bunch of new skills. For those of you who travel, there is the
It was enjoyable to see many of you at the various trainings. adjustment of being away from family for days at a time.
Steve sure does a great job of keeping things interesting. We
finished another Financial Peace class on April 3rd. It was As we make the necessary adjustments, it often involves our
encouraging to have five school students participate in the class. families as well. They have to adjust to the long work days, too. I
We also have a high school student from Hillman who is doing want to offer some tips that may help make the transition a little
the class online. The younger a person starts to apply these easier. The first thing I want to suggest is to talk about what you
valuable financial principles, the better. I know for sure we will need from each other in order to adjust to the changes together.
offer the class next winter in our Traverse City location. I would Talk about ways to make the most of the time you have together.
also like to offer it elsewhere. I will keep you informed. We will If you are new to the routine of working long hours, seek advice
be starting a new men’s study group on Wednesday, April 13th from someone who has worked here for a while. Making a few
entitled, A Man and His Story. We will be meeting at 6:00am adjustments can make a big difference. I want to remind you that
in the downstairs training room. Please contact me if you want I am here for you and your family to offer support. Please feel
more information. A women’s study group is planned for June free to call me if you need to talk.
at the Traverse City location. We will meet on a weekday during
lunchtime. The final details will be in next month’s newsletter. As always, you are constantly in my prayers.

Most mornings after arriving at work I walk over to the mechanic – Tom
shop. Often times, I will ask the guys questions about the
equipment they are working on. A few weeks ago I was talking

NEWBORN ANNOUNCEMENTS!

A Boy, Cooper J,
Born March 4, 2016
21 inches - 8 lbs. 10 oz.
Born to Amanda and Matthew McGiness
Mathew works in the Dirt Division

18

Mechanics

Mechanics Corner I would like to thank Chase Bates and Bryan Martin
for sharing their input on common equipment issues
Spring made its official arrival and we have had in the past at the annual Elmer’s
equipment has already been leaving Institute of Technology training sessions. This is
the yard. It is definitely crunch time extremely helpful to the crews in the field and helps
for the mechanic shops! We have us get ahead. Anthing we can all do as informed
had an extremely successful winter employees can help prevent maintenance issues we
getting equipment ready for the have previously experienced.
upcoming season. We’re looking
forward to another successful summer. –Until next month, keep it running!

With the M-113 and M-115 projects already in full Eric
swing, the mobile mechanics have been seeing
their fair share of road time and service calls. When
calling in to reach the shop, I’d like to remind all to
please call the MECH SHOP-TC in your Elmer’s
phone which will place the call directly to me in the
office. The toll free number is 800-230-4590.

Preventative Maintenance

Everyone in the shop is still steadily the dash to notify you when the system is low and
working on DOTs, OSHAs, and needs to be refilled. There are STILL grease points
general winter maintenance on all that need to be greased manually and should be
the pieces of equipment that we greased weekly, mainly on drive shafts and other
have to prepare for the 2016 season. rotating components that lines would be ripped off of.
With everything starting to roll again, If you have any questions about the auto greasers
please remember to perform your or types of grease that you should be using, call
daily walk around, checking fluid levels, rubbed or stop in the shop and someone will be able to
hoses, oil leaks, broken or cracked glass, and other answer the questions for you. Even if you think
parts of the equipment that might be worn from daily you already know, it never hurts to ask and get the
use. correct update. It’s very important we all play a part
in keeping our equipment in top shape.
A lot of the newer equipment is equipped with
auto greasers, eliminating the need to grease this Remember to be checking service stickers and notify
particular equipment daily. Most of the reservoirs are
out in the open so you can see if they are getting low the shop when they are getting close to needing
at a quick glance. Some pieces also have lights in
service. – Evan
Thank you!

19

Five Commercial Construction
Trends To Watch In 2016 - Part 2

• Posted on January 14, 2016  by Kendall Jones+ in Construction News Online-reprinted with permission

[Last month we reviewed two top construction If that’s not enough incentive for firms to take
trends for 2016, steady growth and labor a long hard look at their current safety training
shortages, this month the remaining top three and programs, OSHA is expected is expected to
trends.] increase fines by as much as 75% this year. This
A new year brings a new list of construction is due to a provision in the budget bill passed
trends to watch for in 2016. It will be the fourth last year that would allow a one-time catch up
consecutive year of construction spending growth adjustment with subsequent increases tied to year-
and we should be fully back to pre-recession over-year inflation increases.
numbers by the end of the year. New technology
continues to be trending since it has so many This means that the current maximum penalty for a
benefits to the construction industry: improved willful violation or a repeat violation would increase
safety, reduced construction costs, better from $70,000 to $122,500. Maximum penalties for
project management and serious violations and other than serious violations
collaboration and greener would increase from $7,000 to $12,250. OSHA
building material and systems. has been prohibited from increasing fines since
1990, and the agency has been pushing to increase
Here are the last three top penalties for year.
commercial construction
trends to keep an eye on in OSHA is also expected to issue final rules that will
2016: impact the construction industry early in 2016.
These include rules on occupational exposure to
Focus on Safety crystalline silica, tracking of workplace injuries and
The number of construction worker fatalities illnesses as well as updating national consensus
continues to rise. The total number of has standards eye & face protection. A proposed rule
increased each of the last three years, going from on crane operator qualification in construction is
738 deaths in 2011 to 874 in 2014. One in five also in the works.
workplace fatalities took place in the construction
industry. Part of this can be attributed to a growing We’ve already discussed how firms are having a
workforce as the fatal injury rate has decreased hard time hiring workers. Having a bad track record
over the past couple of years. In 2012 it was 9.9 on safety is bad for business. Firms should start the
per 100,000 workers which dropped to 9.7 in 2013 year right by performing an audit of their current
and 9.5 in 2014. It’s not a huge improvement, but safety program to identify what measures are
at least that figure is moving in the right direction. working and which ones need improvement. Take
Falls are the leading cause of construction worker the time now to beef up your safety program and
deaths, making up about 40% of all fatalities. Not you and your employees will reap the benefits all
surprising that roofers have the highest fatal at year long.
46.2 per 100,000 workers in 2014, up from 40.5 the
previous year.

20

Technology Use Becomes Vital a larger market share in the industry. Green and
The days of managing a successful construction sustainable construction is outpacing conventional
business, regardless of size, with pen and paper building construction. A couple of years ago
or Excel spreadsheets are dwindling. Projects we were talking about out how net zero energy
are becoming increasingly complex and deeper buildings would be the next big thing in green.
collaboration among all parties involved is now a While the market for net zero is still relatively
necessity. small, we expect it to grow as demand increases.
California is requiring all new residential projects,
Software, cloud and mobile solutions are both single and multi-family, to be net-zero
available for nearly every task associated with starting in 2020, followed by new and renovated
managing a construction business. These include state government buildings in 2025 and all new
estimating/takeoff, invitations to bid, projects commercial buildings in 2030.
scheduling and management, accounting, Building
Information Modeling (BIM) and prequalification of California isn’t the only place establishing net-zero
subcontractors. requirements, All 10 campuses at the University of
Hawaii are expected to be net-zero by 2035 and
BIM adoption is still not where it probably should federal buildings are looking to go net-zero by
be as we head in to 2016. We strongly believe BIM 2030. Even though the evolution to net-zero is still
is the future due to the level of collaboration it in its infancy, we already are talking about the next
enables on a project in addition to being able to step which is net positive energy buildings that
save time and money by allowing conflicts and actually produce more energy in a year than it uses.
issues to be eliminated in a virtual model before
physical construction begins. BIM will also eliminate Advancements in solar technology are helping
a majority of the time spent by estimators doing make buildings greener, as are the use of
takeoffs and estimating. geothermal power and wind turbines that are being
implemented in the design of buildings. Rainwater
Expect to see more investments in construction harvesting and graywater and blackwater treatment
startups and for research and development in plants are helping reduce water consumption.
construction technology this year. Firms like DPR Improved LED lighting and double-skin façades are
Construction, Caterpillar and Zachary Construction helping reduce energy consumption.
all made investments in startups last year and firms
like Skanska and Bechtel have impressive R&D Expect to see more greenery on rooftops, verandas
divisions. and inside buildings in the future. Other trends in
green building to watch for include collaborative
You should be constantly seeking out new and shared spaces and mixed-use buildings to
technology that can benefit your construction reduce transportation needs. More walkable and
business whether it be software, mobile solutions, bike-friendly communities will also be popping up
Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR), drones, this year.
3D scanners and printers, augmented and virtual
reality, BIM or wearables. Other technology to keep Well, that wraps up our top trends to watch for
an eye on in 2016 is autonomous heavy equipment in 2016. Others worth keeping an eye on include
and construction robots as well as more connected alternative construction methods like prefab,
devices and buildings systems that make up the modular and 3D printed buildings. Collaborative
“Internet of Things” for building automation. consumption, often referred to as the sharing
economy, and crowdfunded construction are a
The Sustainable Standard couple of other trends worth keeping an eye on this
Green construction continues to evolve and occupy year.

21

THEGIPVEI‘ECMKLE

1 SERVICE Chase Bates & Bryan Martin
Mechanics - Traverse City
Make serving others For sharing their input on common equipment
your #1 priority. issues we have had in the past at the annual
Elmer’s Institute of Technology training
You’re in a noble profession. sessions. This is extremely helpful to the
Be proud of what you do and crews in the field and helps us get ahead.
Anthing we can all do as informed employees
where you work. can help prevent maintenance issues we have
previously experienced. Way to go, Chase &
Bryan!

2 ATTITUDE Steve Ward
Safety Director - Traverse City
Choose your attitude. For keeping safety top of mind plus the attention
How you think about customers to detail in the inumerable OSHA/MSHA/FIRST
AID and safety training classes you have taught
is how you will treat them. over the years. You will be missed! Thank you,
Remember your mental Steve!
“I Like You’s!”
Eric Sanborn (pictured), Nick Broad, Jeff Saxton
3 CONSISTENCY Project Managers - Traverse City
Eric, Nick, Jeff and others helped plan the Team
Customers return because they Elmer’s training for the excavation division. It
like what happened last time. was a great success! Thank you, Team!

Stick to your high Gary Duff
service standards. Trucking - Traverse City -
Mar 01, 2016 1:46pm
4 TEAMWORK “I wanted to give kudos to the driver of 1230
truck that was in Kalkaska today at 1 pm. They
Go out of your way were waiting to turn left and the light was
to make each other look good. changing, since it was their turn they started to
go and immediately stopped instead of pulling into the intersection. They knew
Everything you do ends up that the person in opposing traffic wasn’t going to be able to stop at their red light
in front of the customer. and that car slid into the intersection without damage and the semi was not in the
intersection blocking traffic, but safely tucked away in the turn lane still. Thanks
to the foresight of your driver, an accident was avoided. Give that person a raise.
They deserve it.” Way to go, Gary!

22

Eat Right

Food, Nutrition and Health Tips from the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics

Eating Right for a Healthy Weight

Reaching and maintaining a healthier weight
contributes to your overall health and well being.
Losing even a few pounds or preventing further
weight gain has health benefits.

Are you ready to make changes in your lifestyle and move toward a
healthier weight? Here are some tips to get you started.
Start with a plan for lifelong health. Focus on the big picture—
achieving overall good health—not just short-term weight loss.
Set healthy, realistic goals. You are more likely to succeed in reaching realistic goals when you make changes
step-by-step. Start with one or two specific, small changes at a time. Track your progress by keeping a food and
activity log.
Get a personalized eating plan. Go to www.ChooseMyPlate.gov for a plan that will give you the amounts
of each food group you need daily. If you have special dietary needs, consult a registered dietitian for a
customized plan.
Eat at least three meals a day and plan your meals ahead of time. Whether you’re eating at home,
packing a lunch or eating out, an overall eating plan for the day will help keep you on track.
Balance your plate with a variety of foods. Half your plate should be filled with fruits and vegetables,
about one fourth with lean meat, poultry or fish, and one fourth with grains. To round out your meal, add
fat-free or low-fat milk, yogurt or cheese.
Start your meal with low calorie foods like fruits, vegetables and salads. These foods are packed with
nutrients your body needs.
Focus on your food. Pick one place to sit down and eat at home. Eating while doing other things may lead to
eating more than you think. Also, switching from a large plate to a smaller one may help you feel satisfied with
reduced portions.

23

Know when you’ve had enough to eat. Quit Is it right for you?
before you feel full or stuffed. It takes about 20 Make sure your weight management plan is right for
minutes for your brain to get the message that you. Does it include:
your body is getting food. When your brain gets • Foods from all five food groups?
this message, you stop feeling hungry. So, fast • The right number of servings from each group?
eaters—slow down and give your brain a chance to • Food you will enjoy eating for the rest of your
get the word.
life?
Get plenty of fiber from fruits, vegetables, • Foods you can buy at the supermarket?
beans and whole grains. Fiber can help you feel • Some of your favorite foods?
full longer and lower your risk for heart disease and • Foods that fit your budget and lifestyle?
type 2 diabetes. • Regular physical activity or exercise?
If the answer is “yes” to all the questions, your weight
Watch portion sizes to manage your calorie management plan is right for you.
intake. This is the key to an effective weight A registered dietitian nutritionist can develop a
management plan. To make sure your portion sizes personalized weight management plan that meets your
are “just right,” visit the MyPlate Food Groups Food individual needs. For names of registered dietitian
Galleries at www.choosemyplate.gov/STEPS/ nutritionists in your area, visit www.eatright.org.
howmuchshouldyoueat.html for healthy eating For more information about healthy eating, visit
guidelines in household measures. www.eatright.org and www.ChooseMyPlate.gov.

Snack smart. Include snacks as part of your daily For a referral to a registered dietitian nutritionist and
calorie allowance and limit portions to one serving. for additional food and nutrition information visit
Plan for nutritious snacks to prevent between-meal www.eatright.org.
hunger. Keep portable, healthy snacks in your desk,
backpack or car. This tip sheet is provided by:

Find your balance between food and physical
activity. Regular physical activity is important for
your overall health and fitness—plus, it helps control
body weight, promotes a feeling of well-being and
reduces the risk of chronic diseases.

Pick activities you like and do each for at least 10
minutes at a time. Aim for a total of 2 hours and
30 minutes or more each week of moderate activity
such as brisk walking. If you are currently inactive,
check with your doctor concerning increased
physical activity.

Authored by Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics staff registered dietitian nutritionists.
Sources: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, ADA Complete Food & Nutrition Guide.

©2014 Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. Reproduction of this tip sheet is permitted for educational purposes. Reproduction for sales purposes is not authorized.