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THE BUILDINGBRIEF

Building a Better Kansas Since 1946 • www.agcks.org

January • February 2009In this Issue

President’s Report.2

Safety Corner. 3

Training Center Update. 3

Convention Wrap Up. 4

Legislative Update. 6

Workforce Development Update. 7

Industry News. 12

Young Constructors Forum. 13

Student Chapter Updates. 14

Thursday Afternoon SessionsOver 100 AGC members traveled to Topeka’s Capitol Plaza Hotel for the 75th Annual Convention. Speakers highlighted timely industry issues such as the Federal economic stimulus package, drug use on the jobsite and tips on managing your company during uncertain economic times. Guest speakers included Secretary of Commerce David Kerr and Congressman Jerry Moran.

The Thursday afternoon sessions started with Dan Oblinger’s presentation of Introduction to Drug Free Con-struction Sites. Oblinger highlighted the cost of drug use to companies, and educated listeners to the signs and symptoms of someone under the influence of drugs.

Following Oblinger, Marjorie Engle shared the results of the Best Practices of a Family Construction Busi-ness survey. Engle held sessions in Wichita and Topeka to interview AGC and KCA members on issues relating to family businesses. Fifty companies participated in the study conducted by Dr. John Perry and Tim Pett in late 2008. Engle shared what were the biggest challenges facing members today and discussed succession planning.

Members Travel to Topeka for 75th Annual Convention

Thursday’s sessions wrapped-up with Loretta Shelly from the State Apprenticeship Coun-cil. Shelly shared the benefits of companies starting their own registered apprenticeship programs and offered advice on steps to take to get a program launched.

Welcome ReceptionAGC welcomed state legislators to the Thursday evening reception. This event allowed members the chance to meet face to face with their State Representative and Senator over hours d’oeuvres and drinks. Legislators searched the crowd for friends and con-stituents to find out what issues are of most importance in 2009. Over 60 legislators attended the reception.

Friday Morning Breakfast“WOW!” You’ve heard Dave Armstrong say it on each and every ESPN Plus broadcast of Big XII basketball games and Big 8 games starting in 1988.

Armstrong was the guest speaker for Friday morning’s breakfast. He shared his life ex-periences with AGC members, from his start at a small town radio station to standing in right field at Tiger Stadium with George Brett in 1993.

AGC incoming president Bev Sauerwein, Sauerwein Construc-tion addresses members at the 2009 Annual Convention.

Continued on page 4

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president’s report

Bev SauerweinPresident, AGC of KansasSauerwein Construction, Wichita

The words of wisdom above encapsulate what our organization is all about. By working together as an industry, we’ll accomplish much more than what individual companies or segments of the industry can do on their own

“Working together” will be the theme of my term as your presi-dent. I look forward to working with all AGC members to make the construction industry in Kansas the best place possible in which to do business.

AGC has celebrated many successes over the years. I continue to be appreciative and impressed with the commitment of time, expertise and funding our members provide. I have big shoes to fill as president, but look forward to the challenge of bringing the industry together, focusing on outcomes that are good for the industry as a whole.

Many industry issues tend to pit members against members. Is-sues such as prompt payment, alternative delivery, lien laws and workforce development have a tendency to divide our diverse membership, But it is our diversity that makes AGC unique. Whether you are a large company or small, GC or sub or sup-plier, urban or rural, union or non-union, we can find common ground, and establish a fair and ethical position.

AGC has always focused on bringing all parties together and allowing all voices to be heard. I look forward to carrying on with this mission. All members that want a voice will have one. We are are in uncertain economic times and it now more important than ever to have a strong unified voice. AGC is positioned to be this voice for our industry.~~~~~~~~2008 marked a great year for AGC. Much was accomplished, including another great showing at the State Fair, standardiza-

tion of curriculum with the Technical Education Authority, and the operations reached its goal of breaking even. For those who missed the AGC annual convention, I encourage you to read our 2008 Annual Report at www.agcks.org.

As reported at the convention, AGC has been making difficult but necessary decisions to insure the organization’s viability through these tough economic times. There have been dues enhance-ments and expense cuts. The largest and most difficult expense cut was the downsizing and restructuring of AGC staff. Lori Hogle’s last day with AGC was February 28. She was a great employee and will be missed.

Watch for updates on progress being made with the state’s schools regarding industry training. AGC has been working to ensure our schools and colleges are providing the training needed to prepare our young people wanting to enter our industry. There are going to be many opportunities for individual companies to get involved at the local level, allowing you input as to what is needed in your area. These opportunities are unprecedented and we will need your participation.~~~~~~~~The focus of the upcoming months will again center on the three major objectives outlined in our most recent strategic plan: 1) Legislative Representation, 2) Workforce Development and 3) Establishing a strong financial base for AGC. I look forward to working with you on these objectives and encourage your in-volvement.

In tough times, our industry need a strong, unified voice AGC is that voice, but will need your active involvement to succeed. Together, we will be able to accomplish so much more.

“A lone we can do so little; together we can do so much.”- Helen Keller

Save the Date!Join AGC members for the Salina Golf Outing May 29 at Salina Coun-try Club. Stay tuned for registration details.

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safety cornerBy Dan PabstAGC Safety Committee ChairmanSafety Consulting, Inc.(316) 250-7070dpabst@safetyconsultinginc.com

In its last semester (see page 7 for a full article on the closing of the training center), the training center has a full schedule of classes. Carpentry I, Carpentry III and Concrete I craft classes are currently in session at the training center. In addition, Crew Leader classes have been held both at the center in Wichita and in Topeka. Blue Print and STP classes will be completed in March. A Drug Incident Risk Management Seminar was received well by those attending in Wichita and another is scheduled for March 20 in Topeka. Additional topics for seminars are being reviewed and will be scheduled later this spring.

Many hours of AGC staff & other AGC member company em-ployees have been spent working on alignment between industry and secondary/postsecondary programs. The AGC of Kansas is standing behind the commitment to support these institutions, especially those who use the NCCER Curriculum, by finding

NCCER Training Sponsors for them. AGC is also training the instructors of any high school or college who wishes to teach the NCCER curriculum, a step that will make credentials available for trainees. There is currently a need for more construction companies to help with these efforts by becoming NCCER af-filiated.

Another major workforce development effort under AGC is the Kansas Skills USA Carpentry Competition. Skills USA is a partnership of students, teachers and industry, working to-gether, to ensure America has a skilled workforce. Since 1965 Skills USA has served career and technical education students through leadership and occupational development experiences. The competition in Wichita prepares the top competitors for national competition. Participants for the competition will come from both secondary and postsecondary schools. The event will be held in Wichita on April 16 with the national competition taking place June 21-26 in Kansas City, MO.

I hope the New Year has started off well for you and your company. However, there are a few individuals that I have been involved with or know of that aren’t having a “good” year. It all started in the second week of January.

A roofer working on a “low slope” roof was walking backward toward the edge of the roof. His fall protection was a “safety monitor” as allowed for by OSHA. His fall protection did not work and he fell approximately fifteen feet. He landed partially on some concrete. He sustained injuries to both knees and his right wrist. It is fortunate that he survived.

If you or your company is using a “safety monitor” for fall pro-tection, make sure you have provided adequate training for all individuals involved and that the monitor takes his job very serious. A safety monitor is only allowed by OSHA for roofers involved with roofing work on low slope roofs. Other trades are not “authorized” to use a safety monitor unless it is written specifically into a fall protection plan specific for the job.

Another injury involved a pipe layer who was working in a trench next to a section of six inch pipe. The section of pipe was be-ing held away from the trench wall by forks of a loader to allow another joint to be installed. The pipe layer proceeded to step over the pipe as it was being held away from the trench. The pipe came off the forks and sprung back into position striking

the worker’s lower right leg. Both bones in the leg were broken into two spots each. Some of

the bones penetrated the skin.

The trench was less than five feet deep in the incident above. No reason was found for the pipe layer to be in the trench. The pipe could easily be seen from outside the trench, and hand signals could have been given from that location. The pipe layer could have climbed out of the trench and walked to the other side (approximately 10 ft) instead of climbing over the pipe.

The third and final incident was a fatality. A young man was work-ing as a plumber. The pipe he was working on was in a trench approximately ten feet deep. Apparently, there was no shoring or other cave-in protection in use at the time of the incident. While in the trench, a dirt wall caved in on him covering him and killing him.

As you may or may not know, dirt can weigh upwards of 125 pounds per cubic foot, making a yard of dirt approximately 3,375 pounds. Obviously, even one yard of dirt landing on an individual spells certain disaster. If you have anyone working in or near excavations, make sure and provide them with the necessary training to understand the hazards associated with this type of work. Also, if they are in an excavation make sure it is sloped, benched, shored, or boxed properly.

All of these incidents could have been easily prevented had a little planning and communication taken place. It is sad that any workers in injured or killed on any construction job. As always, contact me with any questions and have a SAFE DAY!

A rough start to 2009

training center update

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CER for their construction programs. This responsibility will offer AGC and its member companies direct access to students with an interest to start a career in the construction industry.

Congressman Jerry MoranAGC members gave a warm welcome to 1st District Congressman Jerry Moran at the State Building Awards Luncheon (see article on page 9 on SBA winners). Congressman Moran provided an insightful update on the Federal Stimulus Package and Card Check before taking questions from the audience. Moran has announced his bid for U.S. Senate since Senator Sam Brownback will run for Governor in 2010.

State of the AssociationFollowing the State Building Awards Luncheon, members were brought up to speed on all of the association’s efforts throughout 2008. AGC Executive Vice President Corey Peterson discussed workforce devel-opment initiatives, the 2009 legislative agenda, continued emphasis on membership growth and finding new sources of non-dues revenue.

2009 annual convention

In a very informative session, David Al-lison, CBIZ/Mayer Hoffman McCann and Dave Seiter, Spencer Fane Britt & Browne, discussed factors companies should consider while managing a business during tough economic times. The two weighed in on today’s current political climate and offered advice on how to differentiate facts from sensationalism when trying to determine how bad the economy really is.

Workforce Development UpdateFollowing a coffee break, Corey Peter-son and Ward Nippert gave an update on AGC’s workforce development efforts over the past year. The biggest change heading into 2009 was the ap-proval of NCCER curriculum as the industry-sponsored curriculum for postsecondary carpentry programs across the state. AGC has been named as the training sponsor to over-see all of these programs, a move that will require time and travel by AGC staff to monitor programs across the state to ensure the quality of instruction satisfies industry needs. AGC is also working with the Department of Education on the secondary level and will most likely serve as the training sponsor for programs that choose to adopt NC-

Armstrong spoke about the importance in looking forward and not backward and to learn from life’s experiences rather than holding onto what should have been.

General SessionSecretary of Commerce David Kerr kicked off Friday’s General Session, speaking about the outlook for Kansas on the Economic Development front. Secretary Kerr cited the recent news that Manhattan, Kansas had been selected as the location for the National Bio and Agro-Defense Facility (NBAF) as an example of Kansas becoming recognized nation-wide for bioterrorism research which has started attracting businesses to the state with an interest in bioscience.

Secretary of Commerce Dave Kerr pro-moted economic development initiatives taking place across the state.

Big XII basketball announcer Dave Armstrong spoke to AGC members at Friday morning’s breakfast.

AGC President Tim Browder (right) speaks with State Representative and AGC member Eber Phelps, Glassman Corp., before breakfast Friday morning.

Friday’s General Session featured a presentation by David Allison, CBIZ/Mayer Hoffman McCann, and Dave Seiter, Spencer Fane Britt & Browne.

Continued from page 1

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2009 annual convention

AGC members generously donated over 90 items for the KCEF Action Auction at the 2009 Convention. Each year, convention closes with the traditional event which raises money for scholarships, professorships and general department funds for the construction science and management programs at Pittsburg State and Kansas State Universities.

This year, AGC members raised an impressive $41,000 for the KCEF. Mark and Mary Hutton, Hutton Construction, donated the Sports Dream Trip II/Broadway Trip. Raffle drawing tickets were sold throughout convention for a chance to win a trip of a lifetime.

To add a little mix to the auction, tickets were sold for a game of Heads or Tails. Contestants were instructed to stand and select either their head or their tail. A quarter was flipped and those who selected the correct side remained standing. Those who didn’t sat and were finished. It was

KCEF Action Auction raises over $41,000 for Kansas State, Pitts-burg State construction programs.

Steve Mohan picks his envelope for the Sports Fan Dream Trip II, donated by Hutton Construction. Mohan picked the winning envelope.

Winner of the Dream Sports/New York Trip Raffle Steve Mohan, Mohan Construction, Inc.

Donated by: Hutton Construction Corp.

Winner of the IPOD Touch and Docking Station during the game “Heads & Tails” at the Auction

Megan Oblinger

down to the final two. Back to back, one picked heads, one picked tails. With the quarter landing on heads, Megan Oblinger was the winner of a brand new iPod Touch and docking station.

AGC would like to thank all of the donors and bidders for their con-tinued support of the Kansas Construction Education Foundation. AGC continues to show the value of investing in the future of the construction industry.

See pages 10-11 for the full donor list.

The final two contestants of the “Heads or Tails” game at the KCEF Action Auction face off to win an iPod Touch. The winner was Megan Oblinger (left).

legislative update

If the first half of the 2009 session is any indication of how the second half will play out, we’re in for a long ride. It took both chambers six weeks to pass the 2009 rescission bill, amending the 2009 fiscal year budget, cutting over $300 million for the remainder of the ‘09 budget. That’s the good news. The bad news is work is just underway for the 2010 budget which will need approximately $750 million in cuts in order for the state to balance the budget. Turnaround week was inten-tionally moved up one week (February 21) to allow extra time at the end of the session to focus on the budget.

AGC has reported through weekly Under the Dome updates on bills affecting the construction industry. AGC is currently tracking 48 bills. This article highlights those that have been actively moving through the committee process.

HB 2238- RetentionThe Kansas City ASA Chapter introduced HB 2238 which would amend the private and public sector prompt pay statutes from several years ago. This bill would:

reduce the maximum statutory retention level from 10% to 5%• mandate alternate securities in lieu of retention if requested by • subcontractorrequire full release of retention if a payment/performance bond is • presentedallow for incremental release of retention•

AGC of Kansas asked that this legislation be tabled until it had the op-portunity to bring its general contractor and subcontractor members together to discuss these changes. The prompt pay legislation from 2005 was a compromise by all parties involved and provided strong payment protections for general contractors, subcontractors and sup-pliers. AGC continues to maintain that government should not be establishing contract clauses between private parties. Each time the industry appears before a committee split on an issue as divisive as retention, the industry suffers a hit on its image.

AGC will work to get its general contractor and specialty contrac-tor members together at the conclusion of the legislative session to focus on an approach similar to AGC of America, creating a “best prac-tices” approach to negotiating release of retention versus legislating contracts.

SB 152- “Tools of the trade” exemptionThe Kansas Corporation Commission contacted AGC in December of their plans to introduce a bill to remove the construction tools of the trade exemption to bring construction companies permanently under the authority of the KCC. KCC representatives were concerned over load securement and items falling off of trailers onto the highway.

AGC testified in opposition to this bill, feeling it was a broad approach to a specific problem that can easily be addressed. As introduced, all motor carriers between 10,001 and 26,000 pounds would have to

Halfway point of 2009 session passes, sets up lengthy wrap-up session in May

comply with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations. Currently, there is an exemption for construction if you are only operating within the state and carrying equipment to or from the jobsite or carrying materials within a 25 mile radius of the principal place of business.

This bill was amended in committee to retain the tools of the trade exemption, adding the following amendment:

“Every public motor carrier or private motor carrier who operates a motor vehicle, including, but not limited to, trucks or trailers, with a gross vehicle weight rating of 26,000 pounds or less, with a load above the sidewalls of a truck bed or trailer which has the potential because of the nature of the load, to drop, leak, blow or otherwise escape from the motor vehicle shall be adequately strapped to fasten the load se-curely to the vehicle.”

SB 9- Regents projects financed with non-state moniesSB 9 as introduced exempted Regents projects from architectural, en-gineering and state bidding statutes.

AGC opposed this bill and was asked to work with the Regents to find a solution. This bill was introduced in an attempt to expedite the approval process for Regents projects, as it can take upwards of 14 months for legislative approval before ever going out to bid.

After lengthy negotiations between the Regents and AGC, the agreed upon solution was to make new statute for Regents projects financed with non-state moneys that mirror existing hard bid and alternative delivery statute. Design-Bid-Build should be the desired procurement method. If a regents institution feels alternative delivery (CM at-risk) is the best procurement method for that project, a newly formed “pro-curement” committee made up of five members (one AGC represen-tative) will review requests for the utilization of alternative delivery for that Regents institution and determine if the project merits the use of alternative delivery methods.

AGC stressed throughout the negotiation process that the hard bid and alternative delivery statutes are in place to protect the public trust and any attempts to remove those checks and balances could not be supported by the association.

Energy/Holcomb Coal PlantAGC testified in support of SB 265, the Senate Comprehensive En-ergy Plan, promoting the need for investment in Western Kansas and the positive impact on the state’s GDP if the Holcomb plants were built with the creation of more than 3,000 construction jobs. An issue alert was sent out in support of the House CEP (HB 2014) which was scheduled for debate on February 26.

Stay tuned for additional issue alerts and Under the Dome weekly news-letters. If you have not been receiving the Under the Dome legislative updates, contact Eric Stafford at (785) 266-4015 to get added to the mailing list.

workforce development

After a thorough review of several alternate plans, AGC has accepted the proposal from the Training Center Advisory Committee recom-mending that AGC cease training operations at the AGC Training Center in Wichita beginning July of 2009.

The closing of the training center does not mean the end of training for the construction industry. Assisted by resources of training partners such as Hutchinson Community College, the demands for training of incumbent as well as new construction workers will continue to be fulfilled.

AGC staff will now focus efforts on “new worker” training by developing a statewide construction training system, which includes the coordi-nation of NCCER training sponsors in schools across the state. The framework has already been put into place with the Technical Education Authority adopting a proposal recognizing AGC as the training sponsor for all postsecondary construction programs across the state.

The Tech Ed Authority’s alignment of the introductory level curriculums of the postsecondary & Technical colleges has created new opportuni-ties for the AGC to become more involved in workforce development across the entire state. The State of Kansas Department of Education is currently making positive changes in the requirements of secondary level technical education programs which will better align the graduates with postsecondary institutions. Those students who do not want to attend college and would rather directly enter the workforce will be better equipped with the basic skills employers are looking for.

A review of what has been accomplished by the training efforts in the Wichita area shows that training is beneficial. Since the fall of 2003, when training at the current location began, more than 500 Certificates of Completion have been awarded for courses completed in the areas of Craft, Safety and Management.

As stated, this is not the end of training for AGC. It is vital that the AGC Training Center Advisory Committee remain as a functioning body. One of the responsibilities of the group will be to act as an advisory com-mittee for commercial construction training conducted by Hutchinson Community College. The committee could also be a part of a state wide training advisory committee which would advise and make training recommendations to AGC Staff.

Seminars, management/business classes and many of the craft classes currently offered at the training center will continue to be available in Wichita, but on a demand bases with the location to be determined at the time.

The AGC of Kansas Training Center Advisory Committee made a commitment last February to support new worker training on the Hutchinson Community College Campus. A result of this commit-ment is that the AGC has been given space for training as needed and office space in the new workforce building being built on the campus of Hutchinson High School. AGC of Kansas hopes to replicate the successes neighboring states have experienced where the community

colleges and technical schools fill the training needs of the AGC mem-bership. In those states, associations such as AGC are responsible for identifying necessary training and making sure that it is conducted in locations relatively convenient for all members. AGC remains committed and will be working diligently with training partners to assure that training needs continue to be identified and the industry’s needs are met throughout the state.

AGC shifts training strategy: Training Center to close focusing on Statewide program; Workforce development, training efforts will continue

The Wichita AGC Training Center opened in 2003 and offered craft, safety and management classes to AGC member employees. Over 500 certificates of achievement were given out.

AGC sponsors Skills USA state competition in April

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The AGC of Kansas, with the help of the Wichita Builders Associa-tion, will be hosting the Skills USA Kansas Carpentry Competi-tion, on April 16, 2009, in Wichita. Last year was the first year the AGC was involved with Skills USA and along with support from member companies it was a successful event. Fourteen schools were represented with a total of 27 secondary and ten postsec-ondary students competing. The winner of postsecondary level placed 5th at the national competition in Kansas City last July. 2008 SkillsUSA SponsorsCrossland Construction Co., Inc. Martin K. Eby Construction Co., Inc.Dondlinger & Sons Construction Co., Inc.Key Construction, Inc. Midwest Drywall Co., Inc. Salisbury Supply Co., Inc. Utility Contractors, Inc.

Skills USA is a partnership of students, teachers and industry, working together, to ensure America has a skilled workforce. Since 1965 Skills USA has served career and technical educa-tion students through leadership and occupational development experiences. The competition in Wichita prepares the top

2009 convention sponsors

Thursday Night’s Welcome Reception- Cocktails

Thursday Night’s Welcome Reception- Hors d’oeuvres

Audio Visual Sponsor

Thursday Afternoon Speaker Sponsor

Lunch Co-Sponsors

Thursday Afternoon Break Sponsor

Friday Morning Break Sponsor

YCF Reception Sponsor

Breakfast Speaker Sponsor

Lanyard Sponsor

Friday Night’s President’s Reception

Salina Planning Mill

J. E. Dunn Construction Kansas Statehouse West Wing Treanor Architects, Topeka Judges Choice Award Restoration & Preservation, Topeka Crossland Construction Co., Inc. Pittsburg State University Student HTK Architects, Overland Park Recreation Center-Kansas National Guard Armory

Crossland Construction Co., Inc. Chanute Schools, Chanute PBA Architects, Wichita

Dondlinger & Sons Construction Co., Inc. Kapaun Mt. Carmel High School Renovation Architectural Innovations, Wichita & Commons, Wichita

Hutton Construction Corporation The Halstead Bank, Halstead Shelden Architecture, Wichita

Hutton Construction Corporation Marion-Florence USD 408, Marion Spangenberg Phillips Architecture, Wichita

Sauerwein Construction Co., Inc. Plaza Beastro, Sedgwick County Zoo, Wichita WDM Architects, Wichita

The Associated General Contractors of Kansas presented eighteen State Building Awards and a Judges Choice Award to contractors January 23, 2009 at the AGC state convention in Topeka.

This was the 21st year for the AGC State Building Awards Program, which recognizes excel-lence in construction in the categories of new construction, pre-engineered, renovation, Design Build for the General Contractor and new construction, pre-engineered and renovation for the Specialty Contractor. Criteria for judging include significant construction features, innovative construction techniques, and outstanding examples of workmanship. Eighteen diverse projects in 11 Kansas cities were submitted.

state building awards

Awards of ExcellenceContractor Project Architect

Award of HonorCommercial Builders, Inc. Hays Convention & Visitors Bureau, Hays Stecklein & Brungardt Architects, Hays

Conco, Inc. Cowley County Law Enforcement, Winfield Shaughnessy Fickel & Scott Architects, Inc.

Dondlinger & Sons Construction Co., Inc. Groendyke Transport Facility, Wichita PBA Architects, Wichita

Dondlinger & Sons Construction Co., Inc. Dugan Library & Student Center Newman Gossen Livingston Associates, Inc., University, Wichita Wichita

J. E. Dunn Construction Mercy Regional Health Center Dietary HMN Architects, Inc., Overland Park Remodel, Manhattan

Key Construction, Inc. Associates in Women’s Health, Wichita Spangenberg and Phillips Architecture, Wichita

Hutton Construction Corporation High Touch, Wichita Howard & Helmer Architects, Wichita

Simpson & Associates Construction Services Sedgwick County Area Agency on Aging, Wichita Law Kingdon, Wichita

Simpson & Associates Construction Services Emprise Bank Branches, Wichita Schaefer Johnson Cox Frey, Wichita

Specialty Contractor - Award of HonorMidwest Drywall Co., Inc. SUA Custer Hill Barracks, Ft. Riley MW Builders of Texas, Inc., Temple, TX

Glassman Corporation St. Fidelis Church A/C Installation, Victoria Glassman Corporation, Hays

Pictured above: The west wing of the Kansas State-house. J.E. Dunn Construction received the Judges Choice Award for the project.

kcef auction resultsLIVE ACTION AUCTION

ITEM DONOR PURCHASER/AMOUNTShademaid & KSU Umbrella Alcon & Associates Alan Hire, Triangle Builders - $100Rock Band “Kansas” Package BKD, LLP Steve Mohan, Mohan Construction, Inc. - $450Nobilis Computer CBIZ & Mayer Hoffman McCann, Joe Samia, Central Air Conditioning Co. - $500Canon Rebel Digital SLR Camera Central Power Systems & Service Bennie Crossland, Crossland Construction Co., Inc. - $650Golf at Flint Hills Golf Club Commercial Mechanical Rudi Sauerwein, Sauerwein Construction Co., Inc. - $750KSU Golf Bag & Towel Concrete Accessories Co. Kurt Grier, Martin K. Eby Construction Co., - $110Dillons Gift Card Concrete Supply of Topeka, Inc. Fred Willich, Hi-Tech Interiors, Inc. - $700Samsung 52” Flat-Panel HDTV Crossland Const. Co., Inc. Fred Willich, Hi-Tech Interiors, Inc. - $2000Samsung Blu-Ray HD Disc Player Crossland Const. Co., Inc. Dennis Kerschen, The Law Company, Inc. - $550Bose Quiet Comfort Headphones Decker Construction, Inc. Bennie Crossland, Crossland Construction Co., Inc. - $325Frozen Margarita Maker Decker Construction, Inc. Connie Goodnight, LaForge & Budd Const. Co., Inc. - $250“The Keeper of the Plains” Art Dondlinger & Sons Const. Co., Inc. Bev Sauerwein, Sauerwein Construction Co., Inc. - $400KSU Football Tickets Martin K. Eby Construction Co. Dan Foltz, KBS Constructors, Inc. - $200“Flint Hills Burning” Art Ferrell Const. of Topeka, Inc. David Snodgrass, Snodgass & Sons Const, Co., Inc. - $800Diamond Cross Necklace Ferrell Const. of Topeka, Inc. Steve Nienke, Midwest Drywall Co., Inc. - $1200Hilti SLD-121A Hi-Tech Interiors, Inc. Wayne Sloan, BHS Construction, Inc. - $400Ladies Diamond Bracelet IMA of Kansas, Inc. Frank Sauerwein, Sauerwein Construction Co., Inc. - $1500Mens Seiko Watch KBS Constructors, Inc. Ben Hutton, Hutton Construction Corp. - $300KSU Jacket, T-Shirt & Hard Hat KSU Student Chapter of AGC Rudi Sauerwein, Sauerwein Construction Co., Inc. - $200K-State Volleyball KSU Student Chapter of AGC Steve Mohan, Mohan Construction, Inc. - $125Wii Game Player Key Construction, Inc. David Snodgrass, Snodgass & Sons Const. Co., Inc. - $500Wii Game Player AGC of Kansas Dennis Kerschen, The Law Company, Inc. - $500Four KS Speedway Race Tickets LaForge & Budd Const. Co., Inc. Joe Levens, Martin K. Eby Construction Co., Inc. - $550KSU Football Tickets The Law Company, Inc. Steve Nienke, Midwest Drywall Co., Inc. - $400Sporting Clays at Flint Oak Ranch The Law Company, Inc. Tim Browder, Ferrell Construction of Topeka, Inc. - $700Sporting Clays at Flint Oak Ranch The Law Company, Inc. Pat Tolin, Ferrell Construction of Topeka, Inc. - $7002008 KU Basketball LRM Industries Bennie Crossland, Crossland Construction Co., Inc. - $300Theater Weekend in Kansas City Lockton Companies Gregg Oblinger, Simpson & Associates, Inc. - $1200Taylor Made r7 XD Irons Thomas McGee, LC David Snodgrass, Snodgass & Sons Const. Co., Inc. - $1050Larry the Cable Guy Tickets Mohan Construction, Inc. Bennie Crossland, Crossland Construction Co., Inc. - $350Cobra Video Gaming Chair Monarch Cement Company Steve Mohan, Mohan Construction, Inc. - $50Milwaukee Electric Tools Salisbury Supply Co., Inc. Joe Levens, Martin K. Eby Construction Co., Inc. - $700Explorer Case of Wine Sauerwein Construction Co., Inc. Bennie Crossland, Crossland Construction Co., Inc. - $750Garmin Portable GPS Simpson & Associates, Inc. Tim Browder, Ferrell Construction of Topeka, Inc. - $250IPOD Touch Simpson & Associates, Inc. Wayne Sloan, BHS Construction, Inc. - $400Wine Tasting Dinner w/ Guy Bower Restoration & Waterproofing

Contractors, Inc. Ben Hutton, Hutton Construction Corp. - $1900Wine Tasting Dinner w/ Guy Bower Guy Bower Steve Nienke, Midwest Drywall Co., Inc. - $1900Golf For Three at Prairie Dunes Unique Metal Fabrication, Inc. Bennie Crossland, Crossland Const. Co., Inc. - $1100Golf For Three at Prairie Dunes Joe Levens, Martin K. Eby Construction Co., Inc. - $1100Southeast Kansas Cuisine Package Pittsburg State Chapter Joe Levens, Martin K. Eby Construction Co., Inc. - $250Wii Game Player with Rockband Young Contructors Forum Joe Samia, Central Air Conditioning Co. - $650Wii Fit with Balance Board Donated Cash Tim Browder, Ferrell Construction of Topeka, Inc. - $200Dave Armstrong Book Dave Armstrong Bennie Crossland, Crossland Construction Co., Inc. - $50Ron White Bar Stool Topeka Performing Arts Center Dan Foltz, KBS Constructors, Inc. - $250Convention 2010 Table & Wine Service AGC of Kansas Bret Burton, IMA of Kansas, Inc. - $800Convention 2010 Table & Wine Service AGC of Kansas Dennis Kerschen, The Law Company, Inc. - $800Trip Ticket Auctioned Off Steve Nienke, Midwest Drywall Co., Inc. - $1500Tim Browder’s Tie Dan Ramlow, Kansas Contractors Association - $100Tim Browder’s Tie Alan Hire, Triangle Builders - $100Tim Browder’s Tie Ron McVey, Decker Construction, Inc. - $100Tim Browder’s Tie Rick McCafferty, Key Construction, Inc. - $100Tim Browder’s Tie David Snodgrass, Snodgass & Sons Const. Co., Inc. - $100Tim Browder’s Tie Steve Nienke, Midwest Drywall Co., Inc. - $100Tim Browder’s Tie Dan Foltz, KBS Constructors, Inc. - $100Tim Browder’s Tie Dean Ferrell, Ferrell Construction of Topeka, Inc. - $100Tim Browder’s Tie Joe Samia, Central Air Conditioning Co. - $100Tim Browder’s Tie Frank Sauerwein, Sauerwein Construction Co., Inc. - $100Tim Browder’s Tie Wayne Sloan, BHS Construction, Inc. - $100Tim Browder’s Tie Joe Levens, Martin K. Eby Construction Co., Inc. - $100Tim Browder’s Tie Fred Willich, Hi-Tech Interiors, Inc. - $100Tim Browder’s Tie Bob Simpson, Simpson & Associates, Inc. - $100Tim Browder’s Tie Steve Mohan, Mohan Construction, Inc. - $100

Tim Browder’s Tie Dennis Kerschen, The Law Company, Inc. - $100Tim Browder’s Tie Dan Alcala, The Law Company, Inc. - $100Tim Browder’s Tie Jim Rinner, J.E. Dunn Construction Co. - $100Tim Browder’s Tie Rean Wessels, Lee Construction, Inc. - $100Tim Browder’s Tie Gregg Oblinger, Simpson & Associates, Inc. - $100Tim Browder’s Tie Tim Browder, Ferrell Construction of Topeka, Inc. - $100

SILENT ACTION AUCTIONITEM DONOR PURCHASER/AMOUNTK-State Terra Cotta Chiminea Joe & Diane Levens Beth Bower - $20K-State Package NAWIC of Wichita & Topeka Alan Hire, Triangle Builders, LLC - $65Elgin Ladies Watch Donated Cash Dan Alcala, The Law Company, Inc. - $30Ear Bud headphones Donated Cash David Snodgrass, Snodgass & Sons Const. Co., Inc. - $95Lock & Key Charm Donated Cash David Snodgrass, Snodgass & Sons Const. Co., Inc. - $20MP3/Video Recorder/Player Donated Cash Connie Goodnight, LaForge & Budd Const. Co., Inc. - $150Monkey Slippers Donated Cash Dan Alcala, The Law Company, Inc. - $25Purple Sweater Donated Cash Wayne Sloan, BHS Construction, Inc. - $50Men’s Bulova Watch Donated Cash Neil Fisher, KBS Constructors, Inc. - $125Backpack Speaker System Restoration & Waterproofing

Contractors, Inc. Ward Nippert, AGC of Kansas - $30Backpack Speaker System Restoration & Waterproofing

Contractors, Inc. David Snodgrass, Snodgass & Sons Const. Co., Inc. - $45Hannah Montana Package Donated Cash Vickie Nienke - $45Magic Bullet Express Donated Cash Ben Hutton, Hutton Construction Corp. - $40Men’s Blue Golf Jacket Donated Cash David Snodgrass, Snodgass & Sons Const. Co., Inc. - $80Men’s Gray Golf Jacket Donated Cash David Snodgrass, Snodgass & Sons Const. Co., Inc. - $100K-State Toddler Package Donated Cash Alan Hire, Triangle Builders, LLC - $40K-State Cap & Deck of Cards Donated Cash Vickie Nienke - $25American Idol Portable Karaoke Machine Donated Cash Steve Slusher, Snodgass & Sons Const. Co., Inc. - $80Wii Accessories Donated Cash Anita Lawrence, LaForge & Budd Const. Co., Inc. - $115Oneida Double Grill Corey & Denise Peterson Bennie Crossland, Crossland Construction Co., Inc. - $50Green House Corey & Denise Peterson Connie Goodnight, LaForge & Budd Const. Co., Inc. - $60Bobby Flay Squeeze Bottles Corey & Denise Peterson Anita Lawrence, LaForge & Budd Const. Co., Inc. - $12Recycled Newspaper Trash Can, Coasters, & Frame Corey & Denise Peterson Cindy Sloan, BHS Construction, Inc. - $40Travel Set - Pillow, Blanket & Eye Pad Corey & Denise Peterson Dave Fritchen, Kansas State University - $20Invitation Kit Corey & Denise Peterson Dean Ferrell, Ferrell Construction of Topeka, Inc. - $40Two Mickey Mouse Chairs Corey & Denise Peterson Alan Hire, Triangle Builders, LLC - $20Estee Lauder Make-up Set Anonymous Dennis Kerschen, The Law Company, Inc. - $60One Night Stay & Breakfast for Two Brickyard Barn Inn Pat Tolin, Ferrell Construction of Topeka, Inc. - $60One Night Stay & Breakfast for Two Overland Park Doubletree Hotel Dean Ferrell, Ferrell Construction of Topeka, Inc. - $170Free Lube, Oil & Filter Change Topeka Goodyear Auto Center Denise Peterson - $20Tour & Taste for 20 People Holy-Field Vineyard & Winery Dan Alcala, The Law Company, Inc. - $50Dinner for 2 at Harvest Kitchen Hyatt Regency - Wichita Dan Alcala, The Law Company, Inc. - $65Autographed Photo of Tony Gonzalez Kansas City Chiefs Football Club Bret Burton, IMA of Kansas, Inc. - $45Hutchinson Tours KS Cosmosphere & Space Center & KS Underground Salt Museum Ward Nippert, AGC of Kansas - $35Two Admission Passes Museum of World Treasures Rick McCafferty, Key Construction, Inc. - $25One Night Stay & Three Fires Gift Card Praire Band Casino Resort Paul Haley, Triangle Builders, LLC - $120Two Rounds of Golf Sand Creek Station Rudi Sauerwein, Sauerwein Construction Co., Inc. - $75Four Guest Passes to Zoo Sedgwick County Zoo Jason Hogle - $20Two Tickets to “Little Shop of Horrors” Topeka Civic Theatre Jim Rinner, J.E. Dunn Construction Co. - $352008 Autographed Playbill at TPAC Topeka Performing Arts Center Steve Mohan, Mohan Construction, Inc. - $45Four Game Tickets Wichita Thunder Rudi Sauerwein, Sauerwein Construction Co., Inc. - $55Four Game Tickets Wichita Wingnuts Dan Alcala, The Law Company, Inc. - $55Scotch & Sirloin Gift Certificate Wichita Scotch & Sirloin Dennis Kerschen, The Law Company, Inc. - $80Scotch & Sirloin Gift Certificate Wichita Scotch & Sirloin Dan Alcala, The Law Company, Inc. - $80Hygienic Gift Certificate Topeka Hygienic Gift Certificate Denise Peterson - $15Hygienic Gift Certificate Topeka Hygienic Gift Certificate Denise Peterson - $15Customized Fused Glass Kymm Hughes at Prairie Glass Steve Mohan, Mohan Construction, Inc. - $80Purple Beaded Necklace Joe & Diane Levens Alan Hire, Triangle Builders, LLC - $25Ol Stuga for Two Corey & Denise Peterson Tim Browder, Ferrell Construction of Topeka, Inc. - $200CASA Gift Certificate and T-Shirt CASA Mexican Restaurant Denise Peterson - $25Shawnee Country Club Gift Certificate Shawnee Country Club Rudi Sauerwein, Sauerwein Construction Co., Inc. - $50MP3 Player Visit Topeka Dan Alcala, The Law Company, Inc. - $35

kcef auction results

Page 12 Page 13

National Purchasing Partners and Verizon are offering an exclusive deal for contractor members of AGC chapters.

This arrangement was first negotiated by the AGC of Utah and was so success-ful it was made available to all AGC chapters. Currently over 30 chapters have signed on and most are reporting great success with the program. Benefits of the plan range from 1000s of dollars in savings for members to new membership opportunities. Secondary to this is a royalty received by the chapter which creates non-dues revenue.

Features of the discount program are as follows:Best possible equipment pricing in country22% discount for corporate lines18% discount for employee's personal lines35% accessory discount - corporate25% accessory discount - employees$100 credit per line on first bill for new corporate activations25% discount on broadband cards - corporate only$20 unlimited PDA/Blackberry feature (normally $49.99 per month)$5 push to talk with other plan ($24.99 push to talk only)

This discount program however is only available to members that are "construction companies." In other words, suppliers such as insurance companies, equipment rental companies, etc. will not be eligible per the Verizon agreement. To sign up for this program, contact Shiraz Mantara at (913) 344-2860 or by email, Mooda.mantara@Verizon-wireless.com.

industry news

On February 9th, the Residential Construction Management Team from McPherson High School was invited to the office of Kansas Governor Kathleen Sebelius, so she could congratulate the team for taking 2nd in the nation at the Residential Construction Management Competition in Las Vegas. The competition was held January 21st at Caesars Palace. Senator Jay Emler, Lindsborg, accompanied the team to their meeting with the Governor.

The team members are Michael Bruns, Courtney Huber, Craig Loll-ing, Preston Mossman, and Taylor Stevens. The team coach is Arlan Penner.

Senator Emler also sponsored a resolution on the floor of the Senate, recognizing the team for their accomplishments. After the resolution was read to the Senators, the members gave the team a standing ova-tion.

Representatives Clark Shultz, McPherson, and Janice Pauls, Hutchinson, met with the team in his office and invited the team to lunch with him. Mr. Shultz also invited the team to the House gallery to view the proceedings.

McPherson HS construction team recognized at Statehouse

Pictured from left to right behind Governor Sebelius: Arlan Penner, Craig Lolling, Taylor Stevens, Michael Bruns, Courtney Huber, Pres-ton Mossman, and Senator Jay Emler.

AGC/Verizon Wireless Discount Program Launched

SkillsUSA, continued from page 7competitors for national competition. The National Skills USA Championship is the showcase for the best secondary & postsec-ondary career and technical education students in the nation. This is a multimillion dollar event that occupies a space equivalent to 16 football fields. In 2007, there were over 5,000 contestants in 87 separate events. The philosophy of the championship is to reward students for excellence, to involve industry in directly evaluating the performance and to keep training relevant to employers needs. Brandon Brill of Crossland Construction, Dan Carlyle of UCI and AGC Staff are working on this year’s competition. Added to the per-formance part of this years state competition will be a component on steel studs. The competition consists of 2-hours for completion of a written test and 3-hours for the hands on skill part of the competition.

AGC is seeking sponsors and volunteers for the 2009 Carpentry Competition. Last year’s donations totaled $3,500 (see sponsors below). Prizes were given to the top three positions in each division and a scholarship given to the school’s 1st place participants to be used towards expenses incurred for national competition. If you would like to be a sponsoring company, AGC needs commitments by March 13. Each participant will receive a T-shirt on which logos of sponsoring companies will be screen printed. If you’re interested in sponsorship or volunteer opportunities, please contact Ward at (316) 634-6391.

Page 13

young constructors forum

2008 Roundtable DiscussionWith the 2008 elections complete, the Young Constructors Forum invited Martin Hawver, Mark Hutton and Corey Peterson to speak at the 2008 Roundtable Discussion.

Martin is the owner of Hawver’s Capitol Report, the only full-time news service dedicated to Kansas politics. Hawver offered his insight into the 2009 legislative session, from leadership races to the major issues that would attract most of the legislature’s attention.

Following Hawver was Mark Hutton, President of Hutton Construc-tion. Mark was asked to speak to YCF members about how to survive in tough economic times. Mark’s experience and knowledge in the construction industry provided plenty of note taking opportu-nities for listeners.

To conclude the roundtable, Corey Peterson provided an update of the association’s workforce development efforts, thanking many of the YCF members for volunteering at the KC3 Construction Learn-ing Center.

Texas Hold ‘Em Tourna-mentYCF members stuck around after the roundtable discussion for the YCF poker tournament. Twenty two YCF and AGC members took part in the event. With fierce competition, Scott Casebolt, Key Construc-tion claimed first place and bragging rights among his peers.

Looking into 2009, the YCF has scheduled several new and exciting events. Join YCF mem-bers on June 16 for a member-ship driver and game night at a Wichita Wingnuts baseball game. YCF will reserve the Miller Lite Party Deck (holds up to 70) for an evening of baseball. YCF members are encouraged to bring potential members free of cost to the game to learn about the YCF and AGC.

If you are interested in learning more about the Young Constructors Forum, call Eric Stafford with AGC.

Community Involvement ProjectAt the September board meeting, the YCF accepted the board’s rec-ommendation to take the lead on the AGC of America Chapter Chal-lenge volunteer initiative. Led by AGC of America President Doug Barnhart, all 96 AGC chapters have been challenged to undertake a

significant charitable activity in their local community. The YCF advisory board has agreed to help build walking trails for the Kansas Children’s Discovery Center project which will break ground in May. YCF members will volunteer their time and equipment to clear brush for the 1/8 mile path that will go around the grounds. YCF members will also volunteer to assemble the indoor exhibits once the building is complete in early 2010.

Wichita East Mentoring ProgramEight YCF members have signed up for a new pilot program at the Wichita East High School Construction Program. Mentors will serve as a source of up-to-date knowledge of the construction industry, will allow time for the student to shadow or visit the workplace and maintain periodic communication with the student to monitor prog-ress in class. Wichita East instructor John Kornelson is extremely excited about this program and has mentioned other programs in the district would like to start a similar program if this one is successful.

Thank you 2009 YCF Sponsors

CBIZCommercial Insurance GroupFerrell Construction of Topeka, Inc.Hutton ConstructionIMA of KansasKey ConstructionKing Enterprise GroupLaForge & Budd Construction Co., IncLockton CompaniesMartin K. Eby Construction Co., Inc.Phillips Southern Electric Co., Inc.Sellers Equipment, Inc.Simpson & AssociatesThe Law CompanyThomas McGeeTravelers

YCF roundtable discussion, poker tournament wrap up 2008; new events scheduled in 2009

Scott Casebolt, Key Construction took first place at the YCF poker tournament.

Join the YCF at the Wichita Wingnuts home game on June 16. The YCF will reserve the Miller Lite Party Deck which holds up to 70

people for unlimited food and drinks.

Bring individuals interested in the YCF and they attend for free.

Page 14 Page 15

Pittsburg State University

With a new semester well under way, the AGC student chapter at PSU is full of happenings.

On January 23rd the officer team, four members and four faculty mem-bers attended the AGC Annual Convention held in Topeka. March 2nd -6th, the chapter will be sending four student members to the AGC National Convention in San Diego, California. While in the area the students will be visiting job sites to gain valuable field experience.

The new semester began with the first official meeting February 5th with the installation of the new officer team and a bright outlook on the year to come.

An Internship Roundtable was given at the meeting on February 19th with several members giving information about internships to under-classman and upperclassmen alike. Topics of upcoming meetings include: a presentation by JE Dunn regarding the use of BIM (building information modeling) in the industry with an emphasis on field use.

The first meeting in March will include a field trip to the new Student Health Center under construction by Crossland Construction Com-pany on the campus of PSU. This will prove to be a worthwhile learning experience by all who attend.

Upcoming events include: Tuesday and Wednesday LEED exam prepara-tion seminars and BIM seminars every other Sunday; all taught by faculty member Bill Strenth. The chapter is developing plans to partner with the student chapter of the Mechanical Contractors Association to have a team confidence building event at Greenbush challenge ropes course.

Community activities: The chapter hosted a NAWIC sponsored BLOCKIDS event on January 24th at the Kansas Technology Center, the home of PSU ACG. Six-teen members participated in coordinating the activity that drew 40 children from the community. The Chap-ter also sent five members to the Wichita BLOCKIDS event on February 14th. This event drew a crowd of 138 energetic and creative minded children.

Fund Raising: We continue to sell PITT STATE branded hardhats and chapter t-shirts and hope to start-up the

production of cast concrete mascot gorillas.

The student chapter would like to encourage anyone to get involved with the AGC at Pittsburg State University and would like to thank everyone who has encouraged and fostered our development.

student chapter update

Kansas State University

This has been one of the most successful years for the KSU AGC Stu-dent Chapter. Our membership numbers have increased significantly and as a result our projects and member meetings have been very successful.

In November, we participated in the Extreme Home Makeover project in Chapman. We worked with Architecture and Landscape Architecture students and constructed retaining walls, benches, and berms in the city park which featured concrete walks constructed from material reclaimed from the damaged community and benches constructed from destroyed trees. We also had several members working on the actual home too. The group participated in a watch party in January to celebrate the success of the overall project and the impact it had on the community.

The February member meeting featured a presentation on BIM by JE Dunn. It highlighted the positive impact BIM has made for them toward constructing high quality projects.

During the upcoming spring break, twenty of our AGC student members and faculty member Ray Buyle and his wife Karen will be traveling to New Orleans to help with some of the rebuilding process. We see this as a tremendous opportunity for experience, as well as reaching outside of our own community to help people in need.

Junior Achievement has begun and we have AGC members leading eight classes across Manhattan and working with the young kids to learn the basics about the construction industry. Hopefully we inspire them to choose a profession in our industry someday!

We are gearing up to assist with the newest Habitat for Humanity project in Ogden and are lining up spring proj-ects at Lee Elementary which was heavily damaged by the June tornado. In April, we will be making a project tour at Fort Riley.

We continue to have atten-dance in the AGC state and national conventions. Not only has attendance better equipped us for today’s industry, it has driven home the impact of the economic hard-ships on our industry.

We appreciate all the help and assistance that Kansas AGC have given in support of our Student Chapter!

KSU AGC students helped rebuild the city park in Chapman, KS as part of ABC’s Extreme Makeover Home Edition.

Page 15

member news

By RANDY COVITZThe Kansas City Star

Kyle Petty (center) was flanked by Unified Government mayor Joe Reardon (left) and Dan Foltz, president of KBS Constructors, Inc., at Tuesday’s announcement.

Once Dan Foltz, a partner in a Topeka construction company, walked into the Victory Junction Gang Camp in North Carolina, he knew what his next step would be.

KBS Constructors of Topeka announced it will build a $1.5 million state-of-the-art medical facility free of charge at the Victory Junction camp scheduled to open in Kansas City, KS, in 2011.

“KBS is facilitating the delivery of the Body Shop Hospital building for Victory Junction Camp,” said Neil Fisher, Vice President of KBS. “We look forward to the participation of our valued sub-contractors, suppliers and community partners,” Fisher added.

“This is unprecedented,” said NASCAR driver Kyle Petty, who, along with his wife, Pattie, founded the original Victory Junction Gang Camp in Randleman, N.C., in honor of their son, Adam, who died in a racing accident in 2000.

The 7,800 square-foot medical facility -- called The Body Shop -- will provide medical support and will house the medically advanced equipment for the children and families who attend Victory Junction, a year-round, nonprofit camp for children with chronic medi-cal conditions.

The original Victory Junction camp was founded in Randleman, N.C., by NASCAR driver Kyle Petty and his wife, Pattie, in honor of their son, Adam, who died in a racing accident in 2000.

Pettys’ Victory Junction camp gets a big gift from KBS Constructors

The camp in North Carolina opened in 2004, and the demand from families across the country has exceeded the room there, and the Pettys decided to build a $35 million facility on 71 acres in Wyandotte County.

“Victory Junction needs a medical clinic built, and KBS has the giving heart to make that happen,” Foltz said. “We are confident that our specialized experience in critical and sensitive environments makes KBS the right fit to build The Body Shop. We are excited to make this dream come true for the Pettys, Victory Junction and the thousands of children they will serve.”

“Last year, some of us went to Randleman to see the camp,” said Foltz, his eyes moist with emotion, “and all I could say is ‘Wow.’ Right out here at this great Kan-sas Speedway, there are a lot of heart-racing moments. Well, there is a very special heart-racing moment when you drive through the gate at Victory Junction camp.

“When you see firsthand how they impact the lives of these children with serious illnesses and serious conditions in a life-altering way, using laughter and fun that is as strong as any medication they’re taking … it’s really special.”

Victory Junction serves children ages 6 to 16 by offering nine week-long sessions as well as family weekends throughout the year. So far, about 10,000 children and fami-lies from 47 states and three countries have attended the camp in North Carolina.

“We like to talk about Tony Stewart or Jeff Gordon or Dale Earnhardt Jr. and those guys … because they’re people you know. It’s that anonymous Tony Stewart or Jeff Gordon fan who is sitting in Row 3, in Seat 16, that keeps the camp going.” Contributions can be made at www.victoryjunction.com.

NASCAR driver Kyle Petty (left) and KBS Construc-tors president Dan Folts celebrate the gift to help a new medical facility in Kansas City.

Sedgwick County launches new theft recovery information networkThe Sedgwick County Sheriff ’s Office is proud to introduce the Agri-culture Livestock Information Network (A.L.I.N). The objective of this program is to more efficiently get information regarding stolen farm equipment, construction equipment and suspicious activities around your farms and businesses distributed across Sedgwick and the sur-rounding counties. The objective is to quickly inform all participants of suspicious activities and crime in your neighborhood.

If you are an agriculture producer, farmers cooperative, implement dealer or construction business and would like to register for the program or have questions contact the Sedgwick County Sheriff’s Office Community Policing Unit at (316)522-2610 or email alin@sedgwick.gov attention Deputy Travis Clinesmith.

Once an individual or business has been put on the distribution list they will be able to receive emails from A.L.I.N. Anyone can send information to alin@sedgwick.gov but will not receive information until registered.

This program does not take the place of 911. If there is an emergency that requires law enforcement response call 911. If you have a piece of equipment stolen or there is a suspicious character in your area call 911. The next step will then be to email alin@sedgwick.gov. Please be sure to send a detailed email describing what was taken; color, brand, year, identifying marks and other descriptive information. If you are reporting a suspicious character, describe all individuals involved, any vehicle information and what the suspects were doing that caught your attention.

Page 16

welcome new membersGENERAL CONTRACTORS COMPTON CONSTRUCTION CORPORATION PO Box 3097 Wichita, KS 67201 Phone (316) 262-8885 FAX (316) 262-0080 RON FOWLES CONSTRUCTION MANAGEMENT SERVICES 4361 S. Dam Road Manhattan, KS 66502 Phone (785) 776-8855 FAX (785) 776-9074 SPECIALTY CONTRACTORS ARCHITECTURAL WATERPROOFING SYSTEMS, INC. 15179 W. Hwy. 54 Wichita, KS 67235 Phone (316) 946-0400 FAX (316) 773-3001 CYC CONSTRUCTION, INC. 10003 South 152 St Omaha, NE 68138 Phone (402) 333-1652 FAX (402) 334-3197

PRO-KLEEN, INC. PO Box 336 Augusta, KS 67010 Phone (316) 775-6898 FAX (316) 775-7208 RESCO 5333 SW Reeder Topeka, KS 66604 Phone (785) 272-0659 FAX: (785) 783-8489 ASSOCIATES ARTISAN SURFACE SYSTEMS 624 East First St Wichita, KS 67202 Phone (316) 264-0699 FAX (316) 264-7292 CRETCHER HEARTLAND 4551 W. 107th St., Suite 3rd Floor Overland Park, KS 66207 Phone (913) 341-8998 FAX (913) 341-2923

GEO TECHNICAL SERVICES, INC. 4503 E. 47th Street South Wichita, KS 67210 Phone (316) 554-0725 FAX (316) 554-0744 M & M INSURANCE ASSOCIATES 1700 East Douglas Wichita, KS 67214 Phone (316) 264-9317 FAX (316) 219-2802 MECHANICAL & SHEET METAL CONTRACTORS ASSN. 1632 S. West St., #3 Wichita, KS 67213 Phone (316) 941-9108 FAX (316) 941-3675 SPANISH HORIZONS 1855 S. Rock Road, Suite 107 Wichita, KS 67207 Phone (316) 932-2361 FAX (316) 788-1381 WEND-WOOD, INC. 1816 N. Wabash Wichita, KS 67214 Phone (316) 264-1997 FAX (316) 264-2350

calendar of eventsPittsburg State Advisory Board Meeting 4.17.09 Pittsburg, KS

Pittsburg State Scholarship Banquet 4.17.09 Pittsburg, KS

Kansas State Scholarship Banquet 5.08.09 Manhattan, KS

Salina Golf Outing 5.29.09 Salina, KS

AGC Board Retreat 6.4.09 Louisville, KY

YCF Wingnuts Game Night/ 6.16.09 Wichita, KS Membership Drive