cam magazine august 2011

“ V O I C E O F T H E C O N S T R U C T I O N I N D U S T R Y ”

IN THIS ISSUE:

ALSO IN THIS ISSUE: UNIVERSITY PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN ROCHESTER HILLS – LETS ITS LIGHT SHINE

®

Hot Colors and Cool Interior Designs

CONSTRUCTION LAW

Tips for Starting a Business Enterprise

Design Professionals’ Potential Liability

INTERIORS / FINISHES

The Old as ReNEWable:Taking a 2nd Look at

Tried and TrueMaterials

AUGUST 2011 VOL. 32 • NO. 7 • $4.00

ACT HONORS INTEX WINNERS AND

FINALISTS

1175�West�Long�Lake�Rd., Suite�200,�Troy,�MI�48098248-828-3377 • Fax�248-828-4290�Bonding • 248-828-3741�Insurance

www.vtcins.com

GRIFFIN, SMALLEY & WILKERSON, INC.37000�Grand�River,�Suite�150, Farmington�Hills,�MI�48335

248-471-0970 • Fax�248-471-0641www.gswins.com

VTC INSURANCE GROUPRepresenting

CAM MAGAZINE AUGUST 2011 3Visit us online at www.cammagazineonline.com

� � � � � � � � � � �

� � � � � � �

�

New and Improved Concrete Mixtures

Learn How Michigan�s New Concrete Specs Will Be Implemented and Administered


New and Improved Concrete Mixtures Learn How Michigan�s New Concrete Specs Will Be Implemented and Administered




ICHIGANM

ONCRETECICHIGANMECHNICATLOCA LS’ICHIGAN

s New with ConcreteWhat’

SSOCIAAONCRETEASSISTTANCEALECHNICA

s New with Concrete

TIONAATIONMOGRAR PANCE

October 5 Lansing

Decorative Concrete

October 12 Detroit

October 5 Lansing

Decorative Concrete

October 12 Detroit

OCA LS’ICHIGANM PANCESSISTTANCEALECHNICAT

LOCAMOGRAR P

© ALL Erection & Crane Rental Corp., an Equal Opportunity Employer.

We’re always building on our reputation.Equipment + Service + Safety + Location

Anyone can just rent you a crane. But does the buck stop there? At Jeffers, safety is one of the most valuable services we offer our customers, beginning with equipment that is properly maintained and operators who are trained

to the highest standards. Our complete Safety Management System includes lift planning, crane selection and inspection, personnel

training, and performance monitoring.

Get the package deal: equipment, safety, and service. Give us a call.

Detroit, Michigan248-207-6944 888-758-8041www.allcrane.com

A member of The ALL Family of Companies

4 CAM MAGAZINE AUGUST 2011 “Voice Of The Construction Industry”®

FEATURES

10 Marketing on the LevelThe Power of the Press...Release

11 Event Recap: CAM-BIA Mid-Year Economic ForecastSuccessful Meeting of the Minds

12 Mental GymnasticsDeMaria Building Company Transforms the Second Floorof the Old Education Building at Henry Ford HealthSystem

CONSTRUCTION LAW

16 Tips for Starting a BusinessEnterpriseGet Started and Stay Strong

17 Michigan Supreme Court ExpandsLiability Exposure for Contractors

18 Legitimate Concern or Interference with Business Expectation?Design Professionals’ Potential Liability for Interferencewith Business Expectation When Recommending AgainstAwarding Project to Lowest Bidding Contractor

“ V O I C E O F T H E C O N S T R U C T I O N I N D U S T R Y ” ®

INTERIORS / FINISHES

21 ACT Honors 2010 INTEX Winners and Finalists

24 Greenprint for the FutureThe OLD as ReNEWable

CONSTRUCTION HIGHLIGHT

25 A Window to the SoulUniversity Presbyterian Church in Rochester Hills Lets Its Light Shine

DEPARTMENTS8 Industry News9 Safety Tool Kit28 Product Showcase32 People in Construction33 Construction Calendar34 Buyers Guide Updates34 CAM Welcomes New Members34 Advertisers Index

ABOUT THE COVER:PHOTO ©2011 JOHN LACY, PROSHOOTER.COM


Big Discounts for CAM Members!

Commercial LinesBusiness Insurance

Personal LinesAuto & Homeowners Insurance

General Liability Property Insurance Contractors Equip. Commercial Auto Package Policies

Employment Liability Business Umbrella Builders Risk Installation Floater Multi-Policy Discounts

A Voluntary Employee Benefit for yourself and employees fromMichigan’s most respected Insurer of contractors

and their valued employeesAutomobile

BoatsRV’s

Personal Umbrella

HomeownersCondos

Vacation HomesRenters Insurance

Take advantage of CAM’sendorsed program for bothCommercial Lines and Personal Lines Insurance.


PUBLISHER Kevin N. KoehlerEDITOR Amanda M. Tackett

ASSOCIATE EDITORS Mary E. KremposkyDavid R. Miller

PRODUCTION DIRECTOR Matthew J. AustermannGRAPHIC DESIGN Marci L. Christian

DIRECTOR OF MARKETING Gregg A. MontowskiACCOUNT EXECUTIVE Cathy A. Jones

DIRECTORSOFFICERSChairman James C. Capo, AIA,

DeMattia Group

Vice Chairman Stephen J. Auger, AIA,Stephen Auger + Associates Architects

Vice Chairman Jacqueline LaDuke Walters,LaDuke Roofing & Sheet Metal

Treasurer Frank G. Nehr, Jr.,Davis Iron Works

President Kevin N. Koehler

DIRECTORS Gregory Andrzejewski,PPG Industries

M. James Brennan,Broadcast Design & Construction, Inc.

Kevin French,Poncraft Door Company

Todd W. Hill,Ventcon, Inc.

Mary K. Marble,Marble Mechanical, LLC

Donald J. Purdie, Jr.,Detroit Elevator Company

Eric C. Steck,Amalio Corporation

Kurt F. Von Koss,Beaver Tile & Stone

Michigan Society of Association Executives

2002, 2004, 2005 & 2007Diamond Award

2003, 2006, 2010 Honorable Mention

Gallery of Fine Printing

2002 Bronze Award

MARCOM InternationalCreative Awards

2005 Gold Award

The CommunicatorInternational

Print Media Competition

Overall Association Magazine

Magazine Writing

CAM Magazine (ISSN08837880) is published monthly by the Construction Association of Michigan, 43636 WoodwardAve., P.O. Box 3204, Bloomfield Hills, MI 48302-3204 (248) 972-1000. $24.00 of annual membership dues is allocated toa subscription to CAM Magazine. Additional subscriptions $40.00 annually. Periodical postage paid at Bloomfield Hills, MIand additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER, SEND ADDRESS CHANGES TO: CAM MAGAZINE, 43636 WOODWARD AVE.,BLOOMFIELD HILLS, MI 48302-3204.

For editorial comment or more information: [email protected]. For reprints or to sell CAM Magazine: 248-972-1000.

Copyright © 2008 Construction Association of Michigan. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without permission is prohibited. CAM Magazine is a registered trademark of the Construction Association of Michigan.

2006GRAPHIC DESIGN USA

AMERICAN INHOUSEDESIGN AWARD


888 West Big Beaver Road, Suite 1200, Troy, Michigan 48084www.oaklandcompanies.net

Our primary Client Goals:protect Your Assets • Control Your Costs • provide Exceptional Service

ISO 9001:2000Certified Co.

OAklAND COmpANIESINTEGRITY • COMMITMENT • SECURITY

Ph (248) 647-2500 • Fax (248) 647-4689

INSURANCE BONDING


Curtis Glass Celebrates 25Years in BusinessCurtis Glass Company is celebrating 25 years

in business in 2011. This enterprisingcommercial glazing contractor beganoperations in a 3,000-square-foot multi-tenantspace. A quarter century later, Curtis Glass isgoing strong with operations headquartered ina 35,000-square-foot building on Maple Roadin Troy. Curtis Glass “kicked off” its celebration

shortly before 2011 with the official grandopening of the University of Michigan FootballStadium Expansion in fall 2010. With BartonMalow Company as construction manager,Curtis Glass completed the 80,000-square-foot

“field side” portion of a project the companyviews as its new high-water mark. Curtis Glass plays in its own version of the

Big 10. This prominent project for theUniversity of Michigan’s “Big House” wasfabricated in-house even as Curtis Glasscompleted work on the 10-story University ofMichigan Kellogg Eye Center, and continuedwork on a 10-story addition for St. JosephMercy Hospital. In addition, Curtis Glass wasalso working on the McLaren Cancer Center,two Target stores, and the new high school inMarysville. “The capacity of our shop and theskill of our tradesmen allow us to give ourcustomers what they want, when they need it,as well as to customize the work to meet theirrequirements,” said Rob Luscombe, presidentof Curtis Glass.“It just speaks volumes on the quality of the

people who make up this team,” continuesLuscombe. “As I reflect on years past, I realizeour growth spurts correspond closely with theacquisition of key personnel. A company’shuman resources are its most valuable asset.Those with the best team stand the bestchance of surviving this economic downturn.Good trucks, buildings, and tools are necessary,but without smart, hardworking, and clever

people to take advantage of those tangibleassets, where are you? Good decisions at theright time keep your bottom line in the black.Repeat business has a lot more to do withquality work than corner cutting. Last year wasone of our best, and it has more to do with ourteam than any other factor. “I was fortunate to have benefited from

mentor, Mickey Laviolette,” continuedLuscombe. “He walked into my dad’s storesome 30 years ago and changed my way ofthinking. Mickey passed away in 2004, but hisideas played a major role in the growth ofCurtis Glass, and made clear the importance ofsurrounding yourself with the best people youcan attract.”Congratulations, Curtis Glass, on 25 years of

successful, quality projects!

Zurich and RISC Form NewDemolition Select InsuranceProgram for Demolition andWrecking ContractorsZurich, one of the leading writers of

programs in the U.S., recently announced it isworking with nationally known wholesaler andprogram administrator, RISC, Inc., to offer a new

I N D U S T R Y N E W S

We Help Builders

Build Cash

Fred Wicks 561-685-6742 [email protected] www.interfacefinancial.com/wicks

We buy invoices or contractor billings at a discount — so you

can get the working capital you need now!

IInntteerrffaaccee iiss NNoorrtthh AAmmeerriiccaann’’ss llaarrggeesstt aalltteerrnnaattiivvee ffuunnddiinngg ssoouurrccee ffoorr ssmmaallll

bbuussiinneessss

• Fast

• Easy

• Affordable

Lawyers Specializing In Construction Litigation

Patrick A. Facca Gerald J. Richter Bruce M. PreglerMichael A. Hassan

6050 LIVERNOIS • TROY, MI 48098

PH. 248-813-9900 • FAX 248-813-9901WWW . F R P L AW . C O M

� Contract Disputes� Corporate Matters� Lien & Bond Claims

� A/E Liability� Arbitration� Construction Claims

FACCARICHTER &PREGLER,P.C.

help medically.” The actual rescue is left up to the firedepartment. The $64,000 question is: Do they have the capability tohelp? Maybe, maybe not. What are you going to do if they can’t? Now let’s talk time. Studies show that after about 15 minutes in a

harness a victim starts to suffer from suspension trauma; after about sixminutes the victim suffocates from the tons of dirt on top of them; andafter just a few minutes the oxygen in the victim’s hemoglobin has beenreplaced by carbon monoxide. Yes, all three conditions are potentially,and usually, fatal. Not a pretty picture. There is no such thing as a goodrescue when it comes right down to it. Even if all goes well, lives havebeen put in jeopardy along the way. Did you know that half of all trenchcollapse fatalities are would-be rescuers?

The real answer clearly lies in prevention. No rescue is needed if theaccident doesn’t happen. I’ve stressed the importance of pre-planning on many occasions, and I maintain that this is the mostdirect line to a safer jobsite. Improve your safety culture and the rescueissue becomes moot. If you have questions or comments, or want help with your own

company’s safety program, contact me at 248-972-1141 or [email protected].

Take just a minute to give some thought towhat you would do in case of anemergency on your jobsite. Most of us

would answer, “I’d call 9-1-1.” Hopefully that’snot your plan because it just plain doesn’t workthat way. Let’s take three examples: 1) A worker

falls from the third floor of a new medical office building but is caughtby his harness; 2) A worker is buried in a seven-foot trench collapse; 3) Aworker is overcome by carbon monoxide in a confined space. You makea quick assessment of the situation and decide to call 9-1-1. Let’s assumethat you have cellular service, as we all know that can vary widely, evenon the same jobsite. We’ll also assume that your battery is charged andthe area you’re in has a 9-1-1 response system. You reach the emergencyoperator whose first question is, “Where are you?” Not always an easyquestion. Let’s assume that all this works nicely and the cavalry beginsto arrive. Most likely you’ll be getting the police, EMS, and the firedepartment, not necessarily in that order. What are these three entitiescapable of doing for you? Police officers and not trained to handle these types of emergencies,

so they keep the crowd away and radio the fire department to hurry up.EMS arrives and they say, “As soon as the guy is brought down/out, we’ll

Joseph M. ForgueDirector of Education& Safety Services

SAFETY TOOL KIT


program for demolition and wreckingcontractors called Demolition Select. This newprogram is designed to help protect debrisremoval businesses, salvage operations,wrecking companies and businessesspecializing in underpinning buildings from theunique risks they face on a daily basis.Zurich and RISC’s new Demolition Select

program offers coverages for general andexcess liability, property and inland marine, aswell as commercial auto. The followingextensions are also available through thisprogram: blanket additional insured, per jobaggregate, blanket waiver of rights, employeebenefits liability, and direct billing. The Demolition Select program is available

nationwide and written on an admitted basis.RISC will distribute this new program,underwritten by Zurich American InsuranceCompany, through retail agents and wholesalebrokers. This is the fourth insurance program Zurich

is working on with RISC. In addition to theDemolition Select program, Zurich alsoprovides a roofing, oil/gas and fire sprinklerprogram to its customers through RISC. Formore information about the new Demolition

Select program, please visithttp://zprogramsmatch.com/ProgramView.asp

Sachse Construction andBroder & Sachse Real EstateServices Raise More Than$40,000 During Annual “Play ItForeward” Charity Golf Outing100 percent of proceeds to go to Universityof Michigan Comprehensive Cancer CenterSache Construction and Broder & Sachse

Real Estate Services hosted their annual “Play ItForeward” Charity Golf Outing at the TwinLakes Golf & Swim Club in Rochester in lateJune. The event raised more than $40,000towards education, research and treatment ofcancer for the University of MichiganComprehensive Cancer Center. “SachseConstruction and Broder & Sachse Real EstateServices are committed to making a positivedifference in Michigan communities,” said ToddSachse, president, Sachse Construction, andvice president, Broder & Sachse Real EstateServices. “Every day, the University of MichiganComprehensive Cancer Center makes

tremendous strides in the battle againstcancer, and we’re proud to contribute to suchan important organization.”The 2011 “Play It Foreward” Charity Golf

Outing had 61 sponsors and was sold out. 100percent of the event proceeds will go to the U-M Comprehensive Cancer Center. “Each year, Iam impressed by the employees, families andfriends who participate in the annual golfouting, and this year was not an exception,”said Richard Broder, CEO, Broder & Sachse RealEstate Services. “Their efforts continue to makethis event an annual success and positivelyimpact local organizations.”Sachse Construction and Broder & Sachse

Real Estate Services have sponsored numerousgolf outings, raising more than $180,000 tobenefit charities such as the Bear HugFoundation, Make A Wish Foundation,Michigan Humane Society and Barbara AnnKarmanos Cancer Institute. The University ofMichigan Comprehensive Cancer Center is oneof only 40 U.S. centers to earn the CancerInstitute’s “comprehensive” designation, and isalso a founding member of the ComprehensiveCancer Network.

Who You Gonna Call?By Joe Forgue


M A R K E T I N G O N T H E L E V E L

Marketing is more about telling than selling,and nothing tells a story better than a strategically placed, well-written press

release, or news release. In the old days (before the Internet), a press

release was actually a request to the media in hopesthat they would publish the release. Not anymore. TheWeb has changed the rules. Today, you can reach yourbuyers, customers or clients directly with online pressreleases.

CREATING AN ONLINE PRESS RELEASEThe Internet has changed the way people look

for information. A Google search can yield the information you want: links,content or references. But with the vast amount of information out there, how doyou get noticed? To get noticed you need to write for two audiences:� The people searching for your businesses products and services� The search engines that find your content and bring it to those peopleOnline press releases can help you do both. Develop a six-month or annual

press release strategy. Then, write with your buyer in mind following these tipsand you can write professional, concise and powerful press releases.Optimize, Optimize, Optimize - Search Engine Optimization (SEO) should be

at the top of your list. Optimize your press release with key words, phrases andlinks back to your website. Done correctly, your website can reach the top of thesearch engine lists. Start Strong - With only a matter of seconds to grab your readers’ attention,

you need a strong, direct opening. Your headline, summary and first paragraphshould clarify your news. The rest of your release should provide the detail.Identify Yourself - If your release does not identify the source of the

Build a Better FutureDistinctive Degrees for Construction Leaders

Lawrence Technological University Office of Admissions21000 West Ten Mile Road, Southfield, MI 48075-1058 800.225.5588 | www.ltu.edu

[ Waive your application fee at www.ltu.edu/applyfree ]

Explore over 100 undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral programs in Colleges of Architecture and Design, Arts and Sciences, Engineering, and Management.

2011

U.S. News & World Report®

AMERICA’S BESTUNIVERSITIES

2011

Princeton Review®

BEST COLLEGES in the Midwest

A S S O C I A T E Construction Engineering Technology

B A C H E L O R ’ S Architectural Engineering (combined bachelor’s and master’s programs) Civil Engineering Construction Management Engineering Technology

M A S T E R ’ S Civil Engineering Construction Engineering Management Engineering Management

information within the first few paragraphs, you may lose the promotional valuethat your release can provide. Write Professionally - This is not the place for hype, slang, or excessive

exclamation points. Being viewed as an advertisement rather than a pressrelease will hurt your credibility. Post Press Releases on Your Website - Your website should have a section

dedicated to press releases. Make sure you include inbound links and optimizedkey phrases so that search engines will rank your site higher. Limit Jargon - The best way to communicate is to speak plainly using

ordinary language. Using an abundance of technical language and jargon canlimit your reading audience. Use Anchor Text and Features - Most distribution companies can

accommodate multimedia files like images, video, and links that capture theattention of your readers and highlight your news. Attach logos, product shots,photographs, video files, or PDF documents that build up your release. Anchortext and hyperlinks will also point readers back to your site. This will ensure bothyour website and your important keywords receive simultaneous promotion inyour press release.Written well and distributed correctly, press releases can be an important part

of your overall marketing plan.

FREE STUFF Press Release distribution companies vary quite a bit with different costs,

plans, and tracking tools. We’ve done the legwork for you: contact Capital Lettersand we will send you our list of preferred vendors.

“Marketing on the Level” is a new monthly feature for CAM Magazine written specifically for the construction industry by CAM Member Chris Hippler. For moremarketing strategies, visit Capital Letters at website: www.capitallettersmarketing.com.Got an idea for a column or a question about marketing? Contact Chris by e-mail:[email protected] or phone 734-353-9918.

Chris Hippler

The Power of the Press… Release


Nearly 250 constructionprofessionals attendedthe CAM-BIA Mid-Year

Economic Forecast, held onWednesday, June 29 at the BestWestern Sterling Inn in Sterling Heights. This was thefirst joint partnership event between the ConstructionAssociation of Michigan (CAM) and the Building IndustryAssociation (BIA). Two VIP speakers were featured: Mr. Paul Traub, business

economist with the Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago, andMr. John Rakolta, Jr., chairman and CEO of Walbridge,Detroit. Both presented their views and statistics on thecurrent state of Michigan’s business climate, especiallypertaining to the construction industry. Their commentswere well received, insightful and interesting.

"This was by far one of the most informative economicforecasts and industry meetings that I have ever attended.The presentation of Paul Traub of the Federal Reserve-Bank ofChicago was fast paced and easily understood. The secondspeaker, John Rakolta, Jr. of Walbridge, was refreshingly honestand candid about our industry. John did not pull any punches;he let each and every one attending the meeting know whatneeds to happen to get Michigan's economy rolling once again,"said Bruce M. Pregler, partner, Facca, Richter & Pregler, P.C. According to James Capo, VP of Design/Build at DeMattia

Group and CAM’s 2011 Chairman of the Board, “The event wasinsightful and filled with useful data. I’m extremely pleased withthe attendance we received, and the two guest speakers couldn’thave been better.” Added CAM member Chris Hippler, “Your team did a great job

putting this morning's breakfast together. The speakers were anice combination of numbers, graphs and no-nonsense straighttalk, both sobering and insightful in their own right.”“As treasurer of CAM’s 2011 Board of Directors, and also as a

construction business owner, the graphs and projections for thefuture provided by Paul Traub were extremely useful to me,” saidFrank Nehr, Jr., of David Iron Works, Inc. “I really appreciated JohnRakolta’s straight-forward approach when talking about theeconomic outlook in Michigan.” The meeting included a large cross section of the

commercial and residential construction industry, includingthe Boards of Directors of both CAM and the BIA. More jointventures are planned for the future.

C A M A N D B U I L D I N G I N D U S T R Y A S S O C I A T I O N

EVENT RECAP: CAM-BIA MID-YEARECONOMIC FORECAST

James Capo & Glenn HaegeBrad Comment, Kojo Dom, Patrick Baker, Don O’Connell & John Hartwell

Kevin Koehler & John Rakolta, Jr.

30 Tabetop Displays Were at the Event


Henry Ford Health System recently hired construction managerDeMaria Building Company, Detroit, and architect SmithGroupIncorporated, Detroit, to transform the second floor of the Old

Education Building on the hospital’s main campus into the Henry FordHospital Innovation Institute - a unique meeting space where brightminds representing various disciplines can be brought together toenvision the future of medicine.“There will be a large gathering space for interaction and

collaboration between Henry Ford medical practitioners, Wayne StateUniversity engineering researchers and other professionals to developcutting edge medical technologies,” explained Ann Kenyon, AIA, LEEDAP, project manager for SmithGroup.The second floor of the structure was converted for office cubicles

in 2007, but previous uses are obvious. Originally an auditorium, thespace served as a gymnasium in more recent years. The open floorplan lends itself well to the unique type of meeting space developed

O N T H E J O B S I T E

Mental GyMnasticsBy David R. Miller, Associate Editor Images Courtesy of SmithGroup Incorporated

Demolition could begin right away (below), but many other parts of the project were on hold until the intricate wood-ribbed ceiling wasin place (above).


by the project team, which will include atransparent “think tank” near the center ofthe room. Support spaces, including smallmeeting areas with a variety ofconfigurations to support different ways ofthinking, will also be found on the main floor.The existing stage and balcony areas will berefinished and utilized as conferencing space.In fact, the think tank space was movedslightly to accommodate seating for aplanned TED conference that will bebroadcast on the main stage.The project team is striving to create a

“wow factor” that will serve as inspiration foreveryone who enters the space. Much of thiswill be achieved by the majestic architectureof the 1920s structure itself, which features agrand staircase leading to the second floor.Existing building elements, such as theoriginal light fixtures, will be brought fromthe auditorium to the lobby to maximizetheir impact. The entire space will bedelicately restored and complemented withmore contemporary design elements thatwill bestow a timeless quality of the finishedproduct. One of the highlights will be a new wood-ribbed ceiling that will expose some of thestructure of the original barrel vault. Sinceevery piece of the ceiling will be custom-designed, lead time has emerged as an earlychallenge.“I can do all the demolition, I can get the

mechanical and electrical up, but I’ll still beon hold until that ceiling is in place,” said EricDumont, project manager for DeMariaBuilding Company. “I won’t be able to put thecenter cube or the flooring in. Depending onhow long it takes, we might need to look at

different ways to phase this job. We may alsoneed to put a scaffolding system over theentire floor to get the center cube in. We’restill working through some of those issues.”The ceiling represents an unknown

variable. It is unusual enough that exact timeestimates are nearly impossible. The precisecondition of the structure also will not beknown until the team investigates further, yet

the completion date for the project is fixed.All work must be complete by the end ofAugust [at press time]. As visionaryprofessionals give their minds a workout inthis former athletic space, they may be quiteunaware of the mental gymnasticsperformed by the bright project team thatmade it all possible.

Kotz, Sangster, Wysocki and Berg, P.C.

Construction Law Specialists

Solving corporate and litigation problems for the construction industry

WWW.KOTZSANGSTER.COM

• LITIGATION• ARBITRATION

• CONTRACT ADMINISTRATION

• EMPLOYMENT AND LABOR• CORPORATE TRANSACTIONS

• REPRESENTING- GENERAL CONTRACTORS

- SUBCONTRACTORS- DEVELOPERS

- OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT COMPANIES

Detroit400 Renaissance Center

Ste. 3400, Detroit, MI 48243Telephone: (313) 259-8300Facsimile: (313) 259-1451

Birmingham300 Park St., Suite 265Birmingham, MI 48009

Telephone: (248) 646-1050Facsimile: (248) 646-1054

Buchanan400 East Front St., Suite G

Buchanan, MI 49107Telephone: (269) 697-4863Facsimile: (269) 697-4867

Grand Rapids61 Commerce S.W.

Grand Rapids, MI 49503Telephone: (616) 940-0230Facsimile: (616) 285-7215

The second floor of the Old EducationBuilding on the Henry Ford Hospital campusserved as a gymnasium in recent years, butit was converted for office cubicles in 2007.

Beals Hubbard, PLC is a business law firmwith offices in Michigan and Florida.Beals Hubbard, PLC is comprised ofattorneys who have actual industry

experience, that, together with the attorneys’ firstclass legal educations, allows the Firm to offerindustry insight and advise clients in unique andeffective ways. The Firm’s construction lawpractice group provides contractors, owners, andsuppliers with a wide variety of services, farbeyond the ambit of services typically offered bya law firm. Several of the Firm’s recent successesand areas of focus, as well as several proactivetips, are briefly discussed below. For moredetailed information, please visit the Firm’swebsite.

FACILITATION OF MULTIMILLION DOLLARSETTLEMENTOn behalf of its client, a general contractor,

Beals Hubbard, PLC successfully facilitated amulti-million dollar out-of-court settlementbetween an owner, program manager, generalcontractor, and two key sub-contractors andsuppliers. The underlying dispute centered oncost overruns and defective products involved inthe construction of two large industrial energycenters. Beals Hubbard, PLC facilitated dialoguebetween the engineers and technical leads ofeach entity in an effort to promote a betterunderstanding of each party’s position; suchdialogue also ensured effective use of time andmoney. Once all positions were presented,analyzed, and questioned, the attorneysrepresenting each party crafted a uniquesettlement agreement based on a combination offixed payments and percentage basedcontributions to be made over time. The successful outcome of this dispute yields

three important lessons. First, detailed terms andconditions must be incorporated into eachcontract and purchase order. Standardboilerplate terms and conditions simply will notsuffice. Because of differing state laws and issuesrelated to the Uniform Commercial Code, termsand conditions must include enforceablejurisdiction and choice of law provisions. In thiscase, Beals Hubbard, PLC used a forum selectionclause as leverage during negotiations. The sub-contractor recognized that it would have had todefend a lawsuit in Michigan if the parties did not

reach a settlement, which would have beenmuch more costly than defending a lawsuit inthe sub-contractor’s home state.

The second lesson learned from this dispute isthat a written dispute protocol must be followed.The protocol should include certain steps partiesmust go through to resolve disputes that ariseduring and after a construction project. Carefullycrafted dispute protocols also include cooling offperiods as well as staggered steps and timeintervals for submitting and analyzing claims.

Lastly, the successful outcome of this disputereminded all parties involved of the importanceof considering time and money constraints whenpursuing or defending a construction relatedclaim. Often, when a dispute arises, the parties indisagreement race to the court house wherelitigation commences, the parties expendsignificant sums of money on attorney fees andrelated costs, and in the end, the party with thedeepest pockets comes out on top. With theproper procedures in place, and the adherence tosuch procedures, time and money constraintsbecome less significant and have a smallerinfluence on the dispute’s outcome.

SUCCESSFUL NEGOTIATION OF COMPLEXJOINT VENTURE AGREEMENTBeals Hubbard, PLC represented a local

contractor in negotiations with a nationalconstruction manager for the creation of a joint-venture to pursue a large-scale constructionproject. The potential joint venture’s targetproject was a highly sophisticated energy facility.The project required knowledge and expertise inthe design and implementation of specializedenergy-efficient steam production equipment.The project’s scope, however, was beyond thebonding capacity of Beals Hubbard, PLC’s client.The client recognized the limitation, and reachedout to the national construction manager andproposed the idea of “teaming up” to pursue theproject. The discussion soon centered on a jointventure agreement whereby the parties wouldcreate a new entity that would exist solely for thepurpose of pursuing and constructing theparticular project. The parties successfullynegotiated a joint venture agreement that wouldgovern the parties’ relationship and the operation

of the new entity. The joint venture agreementwas favorable to both parties. It allowed the localconstruction company to pursue a project of sizewhich was beyond the scope of its bondingcapacity and allowed the national constructionmanager to enter into a new geographical marketand diversify its project portfolio.Joint venture agreements come in a variety of

shapes and sizes. In negotiating a joint ventureagreement, it is imperative that the partiesdocument how the parties will interact with oneanother, who will be responsible for what portionof the project, and, most importantly, whatdecision-making authority each party will have. Itis also important to specify whether the jointventure is created to pursue a single project, asingle type of project, or a variety of projects. Jointventure agreements are an excellent way forcontractors to team up with one another andpursue projects that they would otherwise beunable to pursue individually.

RESOLUTION OF MULTI-MILLION DOLLARSUB-CONTRACTOR CLAIMSBeals Hubbard, PLC represented a general

contractor who was sued by several sub-contractors for failure to pay under the sub-contracts. The general contractor had an oralagreement with the owner, but the parties hadnot yet executed the written prime contract. Thegeneral contractor moved forward with theproject based on the oral representations of theowner and entered into the respectivesubcontracts. The general contractor and sub-contractors provided construction services. The owner failed to pay the general contractor,

declaring that there was no prime contract, andaccordingly the general contractor did not paythe sub-contractors. The sub-contractors suedthe owner and the general contractor for severalmillion dollars and filed their respective claims oflien against the property. The general contractorsued the owner and filed its claim of lien, whichalso covered the sub-contractors’ claims. The general contractor argued first that there

was an oral agreement with the owner, whichrequired that the payments be made, and secondthat the sub-contractors were subject to “paidwhen paid” clauses. The case was successfullyresolved through the efforts of the generalcontractor, represented by Beals Hubbard, PLC,

Legal Solutions for the Construction Industry

A D V E R T I S E M E N T

who worked with all the parties to facilitatepayments by the owner directly to the sub-contractors for services provided, thereby limitingthe general contractor’s exposure to the sub-contractors. This case underscores theimportance of the use of “paid when paid” clausesas well as obtaining a signed written primecontract with appropriate flow throughprovisions prior to commencing constructionservices.

REVIEW OF GENERAL CONTRACTOR’SEXISTING INTERNAL CONTRACTINGPROCEDURES AND IMPLEMENTATION OF NEWFORMS AND PROCEDURESA local general contractor recently engaged

Beals Hubbard, PLC to review their internalcontracting procedures and recommend revisionsto the system necessary to create a “best practicesmodel”. Beals Hubbard, PLC reviewed both thedocuments that the general contractor used,which relied heavily on AIA boilerplate forms, aswell as the decision making process that theindividuals issuing the purchase orders and sub-contracts went through each time a purchaseorder or sub-contract was issued. During thereview, Beals Hubbard, PLC recognized not onlyseveral deficiencies in the documents used by thegeneral contractor, but also that there were criticalsteps key individuals were failing to take when

issuing sub-contracts and purchase orders. BealsHubbard, PLC drafted new documents for thegeneral contractor to use in place of the standardAIA forms. While AIA forms can be useful, the formsare not drafted in favor of any particular contractor(general contractor vs. sub-contractor vs. supplier).In fact, AIA forms tend to favor architects andconsultants. The newly drafted forms allow thecontractor to better allocate risk to its sub-contractors and suppliers, as well as deter sub-contractors and suppliers from filing frivolousclaims against the general contractor. In addition to drafting new documents, Beals

Hubbard, PLC also consulted with the keyindividuals who were primarily responsible forissuing sub-contracts and purchase orders. BealsHubbard, PLC led the key employees through abest practices decision-making process. Thediscussion included how to best determine whichterms and conditions, as well as which sub-contract forms, were issued in certain hypotheticalsituations and scenarios. The discussion cappedoff a successful engagement and provided avaluable training opportunity for several of thegeneral contractor’s key employees. Thissuccessful engagement shows how critical it is tonot only have proper documents in place, but alsofor key individuals to have the requisiteknowledge and expertise necessary to makeinformed decisions on a case-by-case basis.

THE FIRM HAS RECENTLY INCREASED ITSFOCUS ON FEDERAL CONTRACTING AS ARESULT OF INCREASING CLIENT NEEDSBeals Hubbard recently increased its focus on

the legal issues surrounding federally fundedconstruction projects. The federal governmenthas exponentially increased construction fundingover the past three years. Federally fundedconstruction projects require strict compliancewith a multitude of laws, codes, rules, and otherenforcement mechanisms. Beals Hubbard hasassisted several clients with the negotiation anddrafting of federal joint venture agreements andteaming agreements, as well as the formation ofentities that meet the strict requirements forsmall business, veteran, and minority set-asideprograms. Beals Hubbard has become wellversed in the area of federally fundedconstruction projects and is well suited to adviseits clients through all phases of federally fundedconstruction projects.

READ OUR EXCLUSIVE ARTICLE:Internal Risk Management ProceduresThat Will Lead to Increased Profits

AT WWW.BEALSHUBBARD.COM

Beals Hubbard, PLC is a full service business, commercial, and corporate law firm representingclients in business planning, transactions, and litigation.The firm’s construction practice group focuses on serving construction clients on the various issues associated withconstruction transactions and litigation. The firm guidesclients through all phases of the construction process.

Beals Hubbard routinely assists clients with the following matters:

Beals Hubbard also works with clients in a support capacity throughout the construction process. BealsHubbard fills the role of “General Counsel” for many construction firms who do not have the need for a full-time in-house attorney. Project Managers, Executives, and other personnel routinely call Beals Hubbard foradvice on matters that arise on a daily basis. Beals Hubbard works with project personnel to solve small dis-putes when they arise - before they become large, costly, and time consuming matters.

• Contract Drafting and Negotiation• Contract Risk Analysis• Bid Proposal Review• Construction Lien Issues• Change Order Request Preparation and Review• Pursuit and Defense of Claims • Joint-Venture Formation

• Litigation (including all forms of alternative dispute resolution)

• Employment Matters and Labor Relations• Real Estate and Land Use Issues• Business Formation and Reorganization• Mergers and Aquisitions

30665 NORTHWESTERN HIGHWAYSUITE 100FARMINGTON HILLS , MICHIGAN 48334

PHONE: (248) 932-1101FAX: (248) 932-4186E-MAIL : [email protected]

WWW.B EAL SHUBBARD. COM

John A. HubbardMichael J. Beals Brandon J. Booth

CON S T R U C T I O N P R AC T I C E G R OU P

A D V E R T I S E M E N T


include the Michigan Small Business & TechnologyDevelopment Center (www.misbtdc.org),Michigan's Network of Smart Zones(www.MichiganAdvantage.org/SmartZones), theService Corps of Retired Executives (SCORE)(www.score.michigan.com) and a plethora of localeconomic development organizations, tradeassociations and similar organizations. A greatstarting place to identify such resources iswww.MichiganAdvantage.org/Resources-for-Enterprises. Other resources include the Office ofSmall and Disadvantaged Business Utilization("OSDBU") (www.osdbu.gov) and the SmallBusiness Administration (www.sba.gov/MI), whichtogether help qualifying businesses with advocacy,procurement, business development and financialassistance in connection with federal procurementopportunities for small, socially disadvantaged, andHUD Zone businesses and for businesses owned byservice-disabled veterans. Similarly, for State of Michigan procurement

opportunities, the Buy Michigan First website(www.Michigan.gov/BuyMichiganFirst) is a goodstarting point for identifying opportunities. Thatsite provides information on contractopportunities and contact information for state-employed purchasing officials, as well as links tolow or no cost resources. The programs andservices offered by these government-sponsoredprograms often provide stepping stones for smallbusinesses to grow and develop, and over time, torealize enhanced business opportunities.In addition to qualifying for government

procurement opportunities, businesses that qualifyfor designation as a minority-owned businessenterprise ("MBE") can access opportunities in theprivate sector that might not be available withoutthat status. The MBE designation, conferred locallyby the Michigan chapter of the National MinoritySupplier Development Counsel ("NMSDC"), linksqualifying companies with the establishedprocurement programs of our nation's largestpublic and private companies, including hospitalsand universities. Although not a substitute for high-quality

performance, timely delivery and competitivepricing, the MBE designation is often adifferentiator that places one business ahead of thepack. Participation in the NMSDC or activelyidentifying organizations that aggressivelyconsider the MBE designation to be an advantage,are ways for start-up entrepreneurs to get a foot inthe door.Another important and growing resource for

start-up and small businesses alike is incubatorprograms, which as a group provide a broad arrayof assistance in areas such as business planning,access to capital and technology, and advancedmanagement and operations training. Two notablelocal examples of successful incubator operationshere in Southeast Michigan include Tech Townlocated near Wayne State University and Ann ArborSPARK. Others include Oakland University's Smart

After nearly a decade of economic turmoil, we are beginning to see signs ofrecovery in and around Detroit, including new, small businesses coming tomarket. Such businesses are important in helping our region continue itsrecovery from the economic malaise that has gripped the area for so long, as

well as in revitalizing our national economy.Many small business enterprises have disappeared from the landscape in recent years, particularly those

formerly associated with the automotive industry. Many such companies are still struggling to remain viable,although a few have managed to achieve success and growth despite the troubling economic times. Moreoften than not, the successful ones planned ahead to offer high-quality goods and services to theircustomers on a timely basis and at competitive prices, and took steps to distinguish themselves in themarketplace by performing at superior levels in terms of the measurements applied by their customers indetermining which companies to reward with business opportunities. For entrepreneurs considering a start-up venture, here are a few tips to consider.

GETTING STARTEDPlanning for the new venture is a critical first step. This process should include identifying resources

needed to guide the planning and launch of the business. Great resources for researching the landscape

C O N S T R U C T I O N L A W

Your Legal Team in Michigan and IllinoisSullivan, Ward, Asher & Patton has stood for strength,experience, dedication and teamwork for more than five decades. We providecomprehensive construction, business, transactional, and litigation servicesto the business community. As a client of our law firm, you will work with ateam of lawyers whose experience and knowledge are especially suited to yourspecific legal and industry needs. You will be an integral part of that teambecause you know your business better than anyone else.

KEVIN J. GLEESONConstruction Law Practice Group LeaderE-mail: [email protected] • www.swappc.com

SOUTHFIELDMICHIGAN

248.746.0700

GRAND RAPIDSMICHIGAN

616.459.9040

CHICAGOILLINOIS

312.214.3175

Tips for Starting aBusiness Enterprise

By W. Anthony JenkinsPresident, State Bar of Michigan, Dickinson Wright, PLLC

Jenkins


On July 11, 2011, the Michigan Supreme Courtdecided the case of Miller-Davis v. Ahrens, whichheld Michigan’s special statute of repose, MCL

600.5839, does not apply to contract-based constructionclaims. The decision provides expanded opportunities

for lawsuits against contractors.In 1967, Michigan enacted MCL 600.5839, the special statute of repose

for claims arising from improvements to real property. § 5839 barred allclaims for “injuries to persons or property” against architects, engineers andcontractors that arose more than six years after “use, occupancy oracceptance” of the improvement. Originally, the statute was understood toapply only to third-party claims, and Michigan courts so held. In 1988,Michigan enacted an amendment that was held by several courts to haveexpanded the statute of repose to include contractual claims as well asthird-party claims. However, the Supreme Court never addressed the issue.Miller-Davis involved a claim by a general contractor against a

subcontractor for breach of contract. The issue was the construction of anatatorium roof, which the general contractor alleged was improperlyconstructed by the subcontractor. The subcontractor argued the claim wasbrought later than six years after first use, occupancy or acceptance of theimprovement, and was therefore “reposed.” The court of appeals agreedand held the claim was barred. Plaintiff sought review by the SupremeCourt.In the Supreme Court, the plaintiff argued the statute of repose did not

apply to its claim, which was based on breach of contract and not an “injuryto person or property.” The Supreme Court reversed the lower court andheld that the statute of repose “does not apply to a breach of contract claimfor a defect in a building improvement.” In making its ruling, the court citedwith approval the federal case of Garden City Osteopathic Hosp v HBECorp, 55 F3d 1126 (CA 6, 1995).Miller-Davis significantly extends the duration contractors could be sued

for building defects. The impact of the case is likely to be that warrantyclaims by building owners for defective work will be brought long after thebuilding has been occupied. Owners have contracts with their primecontractor, and often have direct contracts with specialty contractors. Thereis no longer any repose period for claims based on these contracts. Bystatute, warranty claims may be brought up to six years after a breach isdiscovered. Therefore, owners may bring suit up to six years after discoveryof a latent defect, no matter when that discovery occurs.The Garden City case cited by the Supreme Court is as example of the

potential application of Miller-Davis. Garden City involved an owner’s claimbrought against a contractor approximately 21 years after construction.Contractors should henceforth be careful to review their contracts andwhen possible, seek to limit their contractual obligations, includingindemnification and warranty provisions, to reasonable durations.

New MichiganSupreme Court Case ExpandsLiability Exposure for Contractors

By Gary D. Quesada, Esq.CAVANAUGH | QUESADA, PLC

Zone and the City of Southfield's Healthcare Corridor. Still others includeMichigan Street Incubator, Central Michigan University Research Corp.Innovator and Kettering University Tech Work. Apart from providing smallbusinesses with a broad range of resources and assistance, graduation from anincubator experience sometimes confers a small business with a badge oflegitimacy in the eyes of public and private domain procurement officials.

THE BUSINESS PLANDeveloping a well conceived business plan is another critical step in the

planning process for a new venture. Such plans help entrepreneurs criticallyassess the venture, serve as a guide once the venture is up and running, andprovide a basis for financing the venture. In short, a well conceived businessplan will identify strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats for theenterprise during its conception stage and beyond. Launching a new venturewithout a well-thought-out business plan is often a key reason for businessfailure. The classic elements of a business plan are an executive summary, a

description of the business, a description of products and services, marketingand advertising strategies, key management personnel and expertise, adescription of legal structure, financial requirements and operational systemsand processes. A good resource for understanding the basics of a businessplan is www.MEDG.org/startupguide.

BUSINESS ALLIANCESForming business alliances with one or more small businesses or with a

larger, mentor company is an often overlooked strategy for small businessowners looking for growth opportunities. Under such alliances, parties pooltheir resources to create a larger capacity for the providing of goods andservices to customers, and to realize cost efficiencies not obtainable by goingit alone. Such alliances might include sharing physical space, personnel,technology, delivery systems, and more. Of course, structuring such alliances can be tricky, and if not done properly

can undermine the sought-after goals of greater capacity, cost savings andprofitability. Cooperation, governance, allocating risk and rewards and agreed-upon exit strategies are the key elements of properly structured businessalliances. When done properly, such alliances can be a valuable tool in servingcustomers seamlessly and with predictability and accountability.

PROFESSIONAL TEAMSA final tip to start-up businesses is the importance of developing and

retaining a strong, trusting relationship with a team of professional advisors forlegal, business planning, tax, financial and accounting expertise. Suchprofessionals can help the business avoid pitfalls in its early years, and in turnenhance its prospects for sustainable, profitable growth in the long run.While every start-up business has different needs, spending time to research

the available resources can offer many advantages that will bode well for thelong haul. These resources may include considering government procurementopportunities; developing a solid business plan; and forming businessalliances, MBE or otherwise.

About the AuthorW. Anthony Jenkins is president of the State Bar of Michigan, and member and chief

diversity officer for Dickinson Wright, PLLC. Prominent assignments includerepresentation of the City of Detroit Downtown Development Authority in structuringand documenting development and financing of Comerica Park, Ford Field, andadjacent PricewaterhouseCoopers office building complex.

Jenkins is a nationally recognized expert in certification of companies as minority-owned business enterprises, and structuring and documenting MBE joint ventures andstrategic alliances. He was named to the list of Michigan Super Lawyers, Real Estate in2007, and also received a Spirit of Detroit Award. Jenkins’ education credentials includeHarvard College, BA; Princeton University, PA; and New York University Law School, JD.

Quesada


qualify as a responsible bidder. For that reason, Michigan courts have longheld that a contractor who is the lowest responsible bidder has alegitimate expectation of being awarded the project and may have aninterference with business expectation claim against the designprofessional that recommended against the award without just cause.

WHAT GOVERNS DESIGN PROFESSIONALS’ ACTIONS? BAD BLOODOR LEGITIMATE CONCERNS Under traditional parameters, no consideration is given of potential “bad

blood” existing between the design professional and the lowest bidder, oreven between the government agency itself and the lowest bidder. Thisvery issue was recently litigated in a case in western Michigan. It wasdiscovered that the government agency that retained the designprofessional to recommend an award of a public works contract had “bad

Not all project bids are createdequally, especially thosesubmitted on public works

projects. Often, design professionals areretained by the government agencyresponsible for the project and are

tasked with determining the lowest responsible construction bidder forbid awards. Unfortunately, this process does not always take into accountany opinions or attitudes formed as a result of prior involvement on otherprojects. As one might predict, quarrels can arise when a design professional is

asked to render a neutral and objective recommendation in connectionwith a bid award, and the decision to select a “higher” bidder on theproject is made, without explanation as to why the lowest bidder did not


Top Performance in ROOFING SERVICES

T. F. Beck Co. Rochester Hills MI 248.852.9255

J. D. Candler Roofing Co., Inc. Livonia MI 313.899.2100

Christen/Detroit Detroit MI 313.837.1420

Detroit Cornice & Slate Co. Ferndale MI 248.398.7690

LaDuke Roofing & Sheet Metal Oak Park MI 248.414.6600

Lutz Roofing Co., Inc. Shelby Twp. MI 586.739.1148

M.W. Morss Roofing, Inc. Romulus MI 734.942.0840

Newton Crane Roofing, Inc. Pontiac MI 248.332.3021

North Roofing Co. Auburn Hills MI 248.373.1500

Dave Pomaville & Sons, Inc. Warren MI 586.755.6030

Royal Roofing Co. Orion MI 248.276.ROOF (7663)

Schena Roofing & Sheet Metal Co., Inc. Chesterfield MI 586.949.4777

Schreiber Corporation Wixom MI 248.926.1500

SOUTHEASTERN MICHIGAN ROOFING CONTRACTORS ASSOCIATION MEMBERSSMRCA

When you have a roofing problem you need top performance. SMRCA Roofing Contractors are established companies with years of experience in providing responsive service, superior workmanship and exceptional value. Our top performance provides:

SMRCA Contractors are Union trained professionals bringing industry leading service, quality and knowledge to every project. Call us today at 586.759.2140 to receive our free “Roofing Facts” brochure or contact one of the SMRCA Contractors below for a no-cost estimate on your next roofing project or visit us at www.smrca.org.

M.U.S.T. Safety Training and Drug Testing

Michigan roofing contractor 2 year standard workmanship warranty

It is our expertise in various roof systems to fit architectural requirements and owner’s needs.

Design Professionals’ Potential Liability for Interference with Business Expectation When Recommending Against Awarding Project to Lowest Bidding Contractor

Legitimate Concern or Interferencewith Business Expectation?

Nasr Nasr

By Mark A. Nasr and Erin R. Murphy, Plunkett Cooney


blood” with the low bidder based on work doneon a previous project. Accordingly, thegovernment agency tasked the designprofessional with finding any reason to deny thelow bid, which the engineer did. Ultimately, thecourt ruled that the design professional was notliable to the contractor for interference with abusiness expectation, because the engineer’srecommendation was based on “legitimateconcerns” with the contractor’s previous work.However, in another recent case, the court

seemingly strayed from the previouslymentioned ruling, holding that a designprofessional may be held liable for damagesunder a theory of interference with a validbusiness expectation if it recommends againstawarding the project to the lowest bidderwithout adequate justification. In the case in question, the plaintiff contractor

submitted the lowest bid on a public schoolproject. Pursuant to its contract with the schooldistrict, the defendant design professionalassisted the district with reviewing andevaluating bid applications, investigatingcompeting bidders, and makingrecommendations as to which contractorshould be awarded the project. The design professional contacted and

interviewed persons listed on the plaintiffcontractor’s bidder qualification form in order toformulate opinions on the quality andtimeliness of the contractor’s work on pastprojects. The plaintiff received somewhat mixedreviews. Notably, the design professional had anexisting relationship with the plaintiffcontractor and reported its own negativeevaluation of the contractor based on itsperformance on a project in which the two werepreviously involved. Based upon the informationgathered from the investigation, the designprofessional recommended the second lowestbidder, rather than the plaintiff contractor. Theschool district adopted the design professional’srecommendation. The contractor brought suit against the

design professional seeking to recover lostprofits and alleging a single count ofinterference with a business expectation. Thedesign professional filed a motion for summarydisposition on grounds that the school districthad broad discretion in awarding the bid andthat there was sufficient documentation toestablish that the contractor was unqualified.The trial court agreed, granting the designprofessional’s motion for summary disposition.The contractor subsequently appealed. The appellate court reversed, holding that the

defendant design professional could be heldliable for damages under a theory ofinterference with a valid business expectation.

In doing so, the court looked outside of the biddocuments to determine whether the schooldistrict, and the design professional, by proxy,had broad discretion in awarding bids. The court examined the language of the

school district’s fiscal management manual,which stated that “[b]ids shall be awarded incompliance with applicable bidding obligationsimposed by law to the lowest responsible

bidder.” The fiscal management manual alsodefined the term “lowest responsible bidder” asfollows:

“[t]he Responsible Contractor that hassubmitted a fully complete and responsive bidthat provides the lowest net dollar cost for alllabor and materials required for the completeperformance of the work of the constructionproject let for bid. Such bid must satisfy the


Just weeks ago, the Michigan Supreme Court granted leave to reviewthe Michigan Court of Appeals’ decision in this case. The Court willconsider whether the contractor had a valid business expectation andwhether the design professional’s actions amounted to intentional andimproper conduct sufficient to sustain a claim of interference with abusiness expectation.

IS THE LOWEST RESPONSIBLE BIDDER STILL THE BEST PRACTICE?What does all of this mean? One can hope that the Michigan Supreme

Court will finally articulate what qualifies as a “legitimate concern”shielding the design professional from liability, as well as what factorsshould be considered in determining whether a design professionalactually interfered with a contractor’s valid business expectation byrecommending against awarding it a public works project. In themeantime, we are all left wondering whether the lowest responsiblebidder process will continue to survive further scrutiny, or, if in an age ofdesign-build and public-private projects, it is time to move away from thispractice altogether.

About the AuthorsAn attorney in Plunkett Cooney’s Bloomfield Hills office, Erin R. Murphy

focuses her practice in the areas of construction law and general liability. An attorney in the firm’s Bloomfield Hills office, Mark A. Nasr represents owners, architectural and engineering design firms, construction managers, general contractors, subcontractors and developers in all construction matters.

requirements of all applicable local, state, and federal laws, this policy,any administrative rules associated with this policy developed by thesuperintendent at the Board’s direction, and bid documents used to solicitbids, and any other guidelines and specifications required for theconstruction project.Because a bidder with the net lowest dollar cost bid may not be aresponsible contractor, the lowest dollar cost bidder may not alwaysreceive award of the bid.”The court reasoned that the multiple provisions reserving the right to

reject bids are subject to the provision requiring an award to be made tothe lowest responsible bidder; otherwise the “lowest responsible bidder”provision is rendered meaningless and nugatory. The court, however,emphasized that the submission of the lowest bid, in and of itself, wasinadequate to sustain the plaintiff's suit, rejecting any per se rule thatallows litigation to proceed based simply on proof of the lowest bid.Ultimately, the provision in conjunction with the directive that bids “shall”be awarded to the lowest bidder was sufficient to create a valid businessexpectation for the contractor. The court panel concluded that the contractor had presented sufficient

evidence to create a question of fact as to whether it was qualified for theproject. The contractor’s president offered affidavits from variousindividuals who had worked with the contractor on prior projects andstated that the contractor was competent and qualified. The courtconcluded this testimony was sufficient to rebut the evidence presentedby the design professional and created a genuine issue of material fact asto whether the contractor was a responsible bidder.


800-664-3697

www.nadc1.com

Serving Michigan Since 1984

Rolland L. Stapleton, CPC, CPE

• Certified Professional

Constructor (10 + yrs)

• Certified Professional

Estimator (30 + yrs)

• Arbitrator

(AAA 20 + yrs)

• Adjunct University Professor Constrution

(20 + yrs)

• Recognized at trial courts and arbitration

as Expert Witness

• Construction Claims Management, Claims

Development, Claim Defense

• Estimating

• Scheduling

• Constructability reviews and analysis

• Cost outcome projections planned vs

actual analysis

Phone: 313.320.2663Website: rlsa.net

E-mail: [email protected]

2010 Resilient Floor INTEX WinnerMaster Craft Carpet Service – Polk Elementary School

� Project Manager: Jim Judd� GC: National Maintenance Services � Architect: TMP Associates

2010 Resilient Floor Finalist and Nominees were:� Continental Interiors – University of Michigan North Quad Complex

�Master Craft Carpet Service – Wayne State University� Shock Brothers Floorcovering – Lincoln High School Gymnasium

I N T E R I O R S / F I N I S H E S

ACT Honors 2010 INTEXWinners and Finalists

PHOTOGRAPHY ©2011 JOHN LACY, PROSHOOTER.COM


Architectural Contractors Trade Association (ACT) recognized four area subcontractors for their hard work and outstanding constructionprojects at the 16th Annual INTEX Achievement Awards this past spring. This year's INTEX Award ceremony honored the nominees andtheir projects that were completed in 2010.

2010 Unique Construction INTEX WinnerJasman Construction – Zazios Restaurant

� Project Manager: Lee Jasinski � GC: CSM Group � Architect: Eckert-Wordell � ACT Suppliers: Gypsum Supply Company and Commercial Building Materials

2010 Unique Construction Finalist and Nominees were: � Pollock Plastering – Hindu Temple of Canton � Pontiac Ceiling & Partition Co. – CS Mott Children’s and Women’s Hospital Entry

� Saylor’s, Inc. - Michigan International Speedway� Saylor’s, Inc. – University of Michigan Stadium Renovation

Jasman Construction – Zazios Restaurant

Master Craft Carpet Service – Polk Elementary School

George I. Landry – Cranbrook Kingswood Girls Middle School

Acoustic Ceiling & Partition – Eastern Michigan University Mark Jefferson Phase 3


2010 Wall & Ceiling INTEX WinnerAcoustic Ceiling & Partition – EasternMichigan University Mark JeffersonPhase 3

� Project Manager: Jim Weeks � GC: The Christman Company � Architect: Lord, Aeck & Sargent

2010 Wall & Ceiling Finalist and Nomineeswere:

� Ann Arbor Ceiling & Partition – University of Michigan North Quad Campus

� ANM Construction Co – Air Handler Replacement, OCC Southfield Campus

� Acoustic Ceiling & Partition – St. JosephMercy Hospita Chapel Addition

ACT would to thank their Title Sponsors:Michigan Regional Council of Carpentersand Management and Unions ServingTogether (MUST). ACT thanks its Presenting Sponsors:

Carpenters Labor Management PromotionTraining; Great Lakes Gypsum & Supply;Laborers Local 1076, Labor ManagementTrust; Laborers’ Local 1191 Employers’Cooperation & Education Fund; and MetroCars. ACT thanks its Gold Sponsors: Ann Arbor

Ceiling & Partition, Co.; BeneSys, Inc.; BrinkerTeam Construction; Commercial BuildingMaterials; George W. Auch Company;Kulbacki, Inc.; Master Craft Carpet Service;Painters District Council #22; TICInternational Corporation; and TurnerBrooks, Inc. ACT thanks its Silver Sponsors: Acoustic

Ceiling & Partition Co.; B&D Drywall Supply,Inc., Construction Association of Michigan;Copper Range; Diversified ConstructionSpecialists; Jasman Construction; MichiganBuilding Trades Council; NAI, Inc.; OaklandCompanies; Ryan Building Materials; SelleckArchitectural Sales; and Stefansky, Holloway& Nichols, Inc.ACT thanks its Bronze Sponsors: Bultynck

& Co., PLLC; Carpenter ContractorsAssociation of Detroit; Denn-CoConstruction; National Gypsum Company;and Pontiac Ceiling & Partition.

2010 Carpentry Finalist and Nomineeswere:

� Nelson Mill Company – University of Michigan Stadium Renovation

� Pontiac Ceiling & Partition – Polk Elementary School Media Center

2010 Carpentry INTEX WinnerGeorge I. Landry – Cranbrook KingswoodGirls Middle School

� Project Manager: Patrick Landry � GC: Frank Rewold & Son, Inc. � Architect: Ghaffari Associates



OR THINDETROIT TERRAZZOCONTRACTORSASSOCIATION

terraZZo can be thick or thin,

heavy or light, textured or smooth,

exotic or conservative, plain or

colorful, interior or exterior. no

matter what your flooring

requirement is terraZZo has

the answer.

HELP GREEN YOUR BUILDING

artisan tile (810) 220-2370 � boston tile (313) 535-7700

1/4” - 3/8”

From 1/4” to 3/8” EpoxyTerrazzo Topping

THICK


building material. No trees are cut down toharvest cork, and it can be manufacturedwithout the use of man-made chemicals.Harvesting is done by hand to ensure that nodamage is done to the tree and also minimizethe impact to the habitat where the treesgrow. We can all probably remember a corkboard used somewhere along our daily pathto allow us a place to pin importantreminders. Perhaps this can serve as areminder for us to consider the use ofmaterials such as cork for their practical andsustainable advantages.

Another old yet renewable flooringoption is terrazzo. With a rich history thatdates back over 1500 years, terrazzo is one ofthe original recycled building finishes.Terrazzo floors have outlived many of the

buildings that have since been replaced, never having required anyreplacement or refurbishing after decades of service in the hightraffic corridors of many institutions. As a true “cradle-to-grave”option, terrazzo also allows for the use of recycled content. Inaddition to the traditional aggregates that were historically utilizedin terrazzo, today recycled glass or plastic are also being utilized. Thematerials used for the aggregate, as well as the cement and epoxybinders are available throughout the United States, making it easy toobtain them from a regional source. Many of us can recall schooldays that involved walking along terrazzo corridors. Perhaps there’san opportunity to revisit the product of our youth from a sustainableand current day point of view.The questions we should ask before selecting finishes are

important ones. Paying attention to the sustainable aspects of theproducts we choose is a responsibility we should all remain focusedon and take very seriously. Looking to new products that offer theseattributes is certainly important, but we may also be well served ifreacquaint ourselves with some of the products of our past. In doingso, we may find that some of the old is, in fact, quite renewable.

As the focus on sustainability has takencenter stage among the design andconstruction industry in recent years, it

has been an amazing opportunity to witnessthe introduction of many new buildingmaterials. As architects, we’ve developed aninterest in not only what the final productlooks like, but we now ask ourselvesimportant questions about the origin of thematerials and how they were produced ormanufactured.Materials that were once considered

byproduct or waste have now found theirway into the category of renewableresources. In addition to being used as acomponent for roofing insulation, or even asan additive in concrete, crushed glass is nowutilized to produce a variety of attractive walland floor tile solutions. The seemingly endless generation of papercan now be used not only to create highly effective insulationmaterials, but has also introduced us to innovative products such asthree-dimensional wall panels that offer a variety of aesthetic andacoustical properties. Just simply finding ways to reuse old plastic tocreate new plastic has revolutionized our industry.In addition to the wealth of new products that have emerged as a

result of our focus on sustainability, it has also been encouraging tosee our ability to reconsider the use of older, perhaps in some cases,forgotten, materials as an appropriate response to green andsustainable finishes. Take for instance cork, a material we are perhapsmore familiar with for being used as a stopper in wine bottles sincethe 1600s. Cork has also been used as a building material for severalhundred years, and was used widely as flooring in public buildings inthe early 1900s. In fact, many of them still remain in use today.From a green perspective, cork is a sound alternative to many

other manufactured flooring options. Cork is light, wear resistant,elastic, impermeable and well insulated. It works exceptionally wellfor heat and sound insulating applications. In addition to being avery attractive flooring option, it is also a very ecologically sound


G R E E N P R I N TF O R T H E F U T U R E

The OLD asReNEWableDale Jerome, AIA, REFP, LEED AP, president of French Associates

Terrazzo is oneof the original recycled

building finishes.


In the beginning, darkness was upon the interiorof the University Presbyterian Church inRochester Hills. This dimly lit space only had a

single source of natural light, namely a smallskylight, or oculus, almost 50 feet above thesanctuary floor. The vision of the heavens wasreduced to this small aperture. The exposed roofdeck’s high, sweeping arc of wood was poorlyvisible in the half-light thrown by a host of pendantlight fixtures. Worship within this dark, cavernousinterior was akin to the Biblical story of Jonahtrapped in the belly of the whale.

“When I came to the church, I was concernedabout what it said visually,” said Reverend GeorgePortice, senior pastor of University PresbyterianChurch. “It did not have light. It did not havebeauty. It did not enhance our worship.”

The best of religious architecture makes thespiritual tangible and supports the power of theliturgy to quiet the mind and awaken the soul. Rev.Portice’s journey to find this Holy Grail beganalmost 10 years ago, beginning with a conversationwith Karl Greimel, a church member and then dean

of the school of architecture at LawrenceTechnological University. Portice then begancombing through the pages of Faith & FormMagazine, an interfaith journal on religion, art andarchitecture, and reading the Roman CatholicChurch’s Vatican II guidelines for religiousrenovation. His quest ultimately led to thedoorstep of Constantine George Pappas, AIAArchitecture/Planning in Royal Oak, an award-winning design firm specializing in religiousarchitecture, and Roth, Inc., an experienced Troygeneral contractor who assembled a skilled teamof subcontractors well-schooled in quality crafts-manship.

Pappas was selected from among threerecommended architects. “He immediately saw thepotential of the space,” recalled Rev. Portice. “Hehad so many ideas that our excitement andenthusiasm grew. Also, he has a strong backgroundin religious architecture, and I would guess he is thenumber one church architect in the Detroit area.”

Ultimately, Pappas and Roth delivered thesanctuary from its perpetual gloom and into the

light of day. Roth worked through the winter,renovating most of the interior before slicing andextracting a portion of the roof to create space foran expansive dormer window, all in time for thechurch’s 50th anniversary celebration.

Today, this dormer window rises behind the altarand choir areas, filling the sanctuary with naturallight and framing a massive red oak tree growingon the north side of the church. The eye is drawnirresistibly toward the altar and beyond to thistangible symbol of the Tree of Life and the Light ofthe World. The window displays the tree in all itsseasons, from a dusting of snow on the branches tothe buds of spring. The view through “the windowspeaks to us of the present, but it really speaks to usof eternity,” said Rev. Portice.

LET THERE BE LIGHTThe first “design specification” in the Book of

Genesis is “let there be light,” and the same heldtrue for the miraculous re-creation of this 476-seatsanctuary. The dormer window was only oneagent of light. Removing the carpeting and

C O N S T R U C T I O N H I G H L I G H T

By Mary E. Kremposky Photos by Justin MaconochieAssociate Editor Photography, LLC

A Window to the Soul


polishing the concrete yielded a light gray floorwith beautifully exposed stone aggregate.

Even more importantly, the insertion of light-colored maple panels around the entireperimeter dramatically brightens the sanctuary’sdark brick walls. “The maple refreshes your eye assoon as you enter the church,” said ConstantineGeorge Pappas, AIA. In addition, Pappas designed,and Laminated Concepts, Troy built, an entirely newensemble of light-colored maple and cherrywoodliturgical furnishings, including pews, pulpit,baptismal font, communion table, and lectern.

Cloaked in vertical and angled maple panels, theinterior as a whole resembles a piece of well-crafted furniture. The angled panels are a sort of“giving tree” not only adding the leavening powerof light but also serving as acousticalpanels and as camouflage for themechanical ductwork. A recipient ofa 2011 AIA Michigan Design Award,the project also fine-tuned theacoustics, delivering a high-qualityacoustical capability, along with apipe organ and new organ platform.

WINTER DARKNESSThis project of light was launched

in the dead of winter. Workingslightly out of sequence to avoidopening the roof and exposing theinterior to Michigan’s usual wintrymix of snow, sleet and freezing rain,Roth began selective interiordemolition in January 2008, followedby construction of the framing forthe maple panels. “Because thesubstrate or the framing has to bealmost perfect for these panels to fittogether, you have to have a goodstud drywall contractor,” said JeffRoth, president of Roth, Inc. Acousti-Con, Waterford, was thesubcontractor selected for its abilityto achieve these tight tolerances.

Work from January to Mayincluded installing the majority ofnew light fixtures, electrical systemsand ductwork. Working from the back of thesanctuary toward the dormer, interior workstopped short of a demarcation line below thefuture window to avoid any interior damage, saidRoth.

One exception was the construction of a steel-framed, concrete deck mezzanine built for use as awork platform during dormer construction andultimately as a sturdy support for the pipe organ.The mezzanine’s steel frame rests on the exteriormasonry load-bearing walls to support theseheavenly but heavy pipes. “There is probably about2,000 to 3,000 lbs. on each corner,” said Pappas.“When the organ is playing there is a tremendousamount of reverberation that might transfer to theacoustics if it didn’t rest on a very solid structure.”

“GOD’S LIGHT BULB”Pappas calls the dormer window “God’s light

bulb” – one with a northern “wattage” drawing in acontinual stream of gentle, even light. Installing

KEEPING YOUR FOCUSThe Christian message, “You are the Light of the

World,” now resonates in this light-filled sanctuary.The dormer window not only draws in the light butaids in creating a central axis straight through theheart of the sanctuary, beginning with thebaptismal font at the entrance, leading to thecommunion table and finally soaring above to asuspended cross and to the light and tree beyond.Like a mantra, the architecture helps to focus themind on the eternal.

As the first point in this unifying line, placing thebaptismal font at the very entrance is a return to amuch older practice in Christian churches, apractice that symbolizes the entry into the fold, saidRev. Portice. The entire sequence speaks to the

Christian church as theGood Shepherdministering to his flock.“You walk in the door forbaptism into the church,you are fed at thecommunion table, youare nourished by theWord of God, you witnessChrist’s gift to us on thecross, and then you seebeyond through thewindow to eternity,” saidRev. Portice.

All other elementsin the sanctuary aredesigned to reduce visualdistraction, including thelight gray floor and theuniform and lightlybanded, quarter sawn riftcut maple panels.“Everything is slightlymonochromatic,” saidPappas.

Achieving thisuniformity was acalculated task,beginning with theselection of the quartersawn rift cut. “We ordered

the quarter sawn panels in one lot to achieve a veryclose match,” said Roth. “Mock-ups were alsoprepared for the owner’s and architect’s approval.”All of the furnishings were light colored andquarter sawn for the same purpose. LaminatedConcepts fabricated both the furniture and themaple panels, even devising a custom fasteningsystem for the sloped panels and applying ascratch-resistant acrylic finish for the longevity andprotection of the wood.

Turning down the visual volume also includedre-staining the dark brown glu-lam beams arcingover the sanctuary. The new stain more closelymatches the original cherrywood-stained decking,keeping these dark vertical stripes from takingaway from the central focus, said Pappas.

With this design strategy, the eye is drawn to twoflashpoints of color. “When the procession enterson Sunday, all the choir is wearing royal blue robesof a very deep, rich color,” said Rev. Portice. “The eyeis drawn to the liturgical action.” Added Pappas, “It

C O N S T R U C T I O N H I G H L I G H T

this “light bulb” took a crane and a run of goodweather. Given Michigan’s finicky precipitationpatterns, Roth established a target date nearMemorial Day for the grand opening of the roof.Late May also proved optimal because the church’sschool was not in session on the holiday weekend,giving Roth full control of the north parking lot –the school’s access point and drop-off location.

Carpentry contractor, Wally Kosorski and Co., Inc.,Clinton Township, first laid the dormer framing outto scale on the sanctuary floor, plotting theelevation of the opening’s sill and the head of thedormer. “The carpenter actually built the dormer’stwo walls on the floor of the sanctuary,” said Roth.

In the week prior to Memorial Day, Roth cutopenings and set the new steel columns for the

dormer. “Toward the end of the week, thecarpenter cut the roof from the bottom side, andwe supported it from underneath,” said Roth. “OnSaturday of Memorial Day weekend, we positionedour cranes and lifted the existing roof off all in onepiece.”

The big lift and build-out occurred in a singleday with the two walls lifted through the newopening, set in place and installed, followed byconstruction of the new roof framing and decking,and placement of a temporary enclosure. “We wereall enclosed by the end of that Saturday night,” saidRoth. “All of this work was assisted by being able towork off of the steel mezzanine.”

Rochester Hills Contract Glazing, Inc., RochesterHills installed the massive window and its frame inthe 12 x 20-foot opening. God’s light bulb was now“turned on” and ready to service the sanctuarywhose remaining interior was finished in August,along with furniture installation as well.

A central axis leads straight through the heart of the sanctuary, beginning withthe baptismal font, followed by the altar and finally soaring above to the suspended cross and to the light and tree beyond.


is amazing how the eye goes straight to the tree,because that is the most intense color with the blueof the sky and the green of the tree in summer.”

At this church, there is no contradiction in this“color scheme.” The University Presbyterian’s closerelationship to nature is rooted in the PresbyterianChurch’s Celtic roots in Scotland and NorthernIreland. The church’s Gardening Angels haveturned the grounds into a sea of blooming flowersand native plants. The church complex isenveloped in greenery, including a small woodlotthat is home to the towering red oak visiblethrough the dormer window.

A living symbol of strength and longevity, Oaktrees are deeply embedded in the traditions of theCeltic Presbyterian church. “We always look forreligious space where we can plant oak trees,because in Ireland and Scotland many of thechurches were originally built on pagan sites in themiddle of oak groves,” said Rev. Portice. As part ofits tradition and its environmentally friendly focus,University Presbyterian has planted its own oaktree, as well as 25 other trees on its property alongAdams Road.

MUSICAL CHAIRSThe newly transformed sanctuary is now an aid

in bringing the 600-member congregation closerto the Word of God in the liturgy and the works ofGod in the natural world. Pappas’ design also drewthe congregation physically closer to the altarplatform. The original sanctuary is configured as atrue Greek cross defined as a cross with arms ofequal length radiating from a central core.Basically, the interior is almost a circle with each ofthe quadrants of pews equidistant from the altar.Taking full advantage of the original configuration,“we felt moving the altar platform forward wouldcreate an incredible amount of intimacy,” saidPappas. “No matter the quadrant, everybody isclose to the communion table, and everybody hasa close relationship with the sacred area.”

Bringing flexibility to the interior was anotherpart of the renovation’s mission. Because thechurch uses liturgical dance, movement and dramaas part of worship, the sanctuary has a flexiblearrangement of open-ended pews and chairs, aswell as a piano and organ, equipped with a long,specialty cord providing the capability of movingthe organ front and center for a recital or concert.

The modular and moveable choir platform andseating, able to expand and contract as necessary,now has space for 90 to 100 choir members versusthe original 30 to 40 members. “Now we can bringin three or four different choirs at one time to singfor festival occasions,” said Rev. Portice. “We haveeven had a full orchestra in the sanctuary.”

LET THERE BE SOUNDThe renovation delivered light, focus and

acoustical clarity to the 5,400-square-footsanctuary. “The original sanctuary had sufferedfrom what we call a slap-back echo,” said Pappas.Scott R. Riedel & Associates, Ltd., prominentacoustical consultants based in Milwaukee,provided an acoustical analysis of the space andupgraded the sound system. As a Roth subcon-tractor, Ann Arbor Audio, Brighton, installed the

sound system.Michigan’s own native maple again came to the

rescue. The angled maple panels refract and breakdown the sound to minimize the echo and restorethe clarity of the spoken word and the beauty ofthe University Presbyterian Church’s 11 differentchoirs, ranging from a Gospel choir and four bellchoirs to a Cherub choir for kindergarten and first-grade children. Song is prayer to the UniversityPresbyterian Church, and now the congregationcan enjoy impeccable acoustics from these strategically angled and placed panels and with theacoustical aid of fabric pew seats.

University Presbyterian is also sharing itsacoustically tuned sanctuary with other groups.“Oakland University books the space for all theirmusical events,” said Rev. Portice. “In the lastmonth, we’ve probably had about 10 requests touse this space for concerts. We just can’taccommodate all of them. It’s a compliment to thespace, to the acoustics and to the designer.

“It is also a compliment to the church that iswilling to share the space,” he continued. “We feelthe church space is a gift from God that is not meantto be hoarded just for our use. We have 23 differentgroups using all of our facilities, such as nonprofitgroups working for the betterment of thecommunity, self-help programs, and musicprograms. In some ways, the architecture canbecome a welcoming outreach to the community,and welcoming is a very important part ofChristianity.”

Musically, the church was in seventh heavenwith its purchase of a recycled pipe organ at anamazingly low price. The organ was installed 40years ago in an Illinois building in the process ofbeing condemned. “The organ tuner said it is oneof the most beautiful organs in northwesternIllinois,” said Rev. Portice. “He said, ‘Any church thatgets that organ is lucky.’ We always joke that wehad an organ transplant.” After refurbishment andrepainting in a Kansas factory and construction of anew console blending the organ with the newlyrenovated sanctuary, this musical instrument hasfound a fitting home in this finely tuned space.“Recycling is a wonderful thing,” said Rev. Portice.

A MATERIAL HARMONYThe sanctuary’s polished concrete floor is an

environmentally friendly material in sync with thisCeltic church’s “green” mission. Creating this naturalexpanse of flooring entailed “grinding the floor andtaking down very small increments of the concreteto expose the aggregate,” said Roth. “It was aprocess that took almost a week, because we wouldgrind an area, and then request approval from theowner and architect.”

With the warm, gray tone of the floor almostperfectly matching the organ pipes, the twoelements help unify the space. “What is amazing isthe color of the organ pipes and the color of thefloor is so close,” said Pappas.

The striking cherrywood and maple furnishingscreate their own harmony in wood and link the twodesign periods to a degree. This duet of maple andcherrywood is seen to full effect in the pews whosetop cherrywood edges create almost a continuousvisual line emphasizing the circular nature of this

Greek cross-configured church. As another unifying link, each piece of liturgical

furniture embodies the same religious imagery.Three vertical pieces of wood, representing theTrinity, form the main body and/or legs of all thealtar furnishings. Said Pappas, “The design of thefurnishings also is all done in a true Greek cross,”the most apparent example being the circularbaptismal font indented with four equidistantmarks.

For a modest cost, this sanctuary, originally builtin the ‘70s, has been transformed into a serene,light-filled house of worship. “Of all the spaceswe've done, the transformation from a pureacoustical and aesthetic standpoint is probably theproject in which we got the best value for thedollars,” said Pappas. “The end result is amazingacoustics and a completely refreshing worshipspace.” Roth also upgraded the building’s fire alarmsystem and delivered a complete kitchenrenovation of the activity hall. Renovation of thenarthex may be the next step.

Thanks to the vision of Constantine GeorgePappas AIA Architecture/Planning and the savvyproject management of Roth, Inc., the qualitycraftsmanship of University Presbyterian Church’ssanctuary will stand the test of time and will longserve the church’s mission to focus the congre-gation’s awareness on the Light of the World withinand beyond.

UNIVERSITY PRESBYTERIAN CHURCHOwner: University Presbyterian Church,

Rochester HillsArchitect: Constantine George Pappas AIA

Architecture/Planning, Royal OakContractor: Roth, Inc., Troy

SUBCONTRACTORS• Demolition – Blue Star, Inc., Warren• Concrete – 6-K Construction Company,

Brighton• Masonry – Efficient Design, Inc., Chesterfield• Structural Steel – Reymar Steel Co., Inc.,

Detroit• Roofing – Four Seasons Roofing & Sheet

Metal, Shelby Township• Carpentry – Wally Kosorski and Co., Inc.,

Clinton Township• Glu Lam Material – Timber Systems, Lapeer• Studs/Drywall – Acousti-Con, Waterford• Millwork/Furniture – Laminated Concepts,

Inc., Troy• Glass, Aluminum – Rochester Hills Contract

Glazing, Inc., Rochester Hills• Doors/Hardware – Macomb Fire Door Co.,

Roseville• Counter Shutter – Detroit Door and Hardware

Co., Madison Heights• Flooring – Macias Floors, Livonia• Flooring – All Court, Inc., Northville• Painting – Industrial Coating, Southgate• Kitchen – Architectural Stainless, Macomb• Plumbing – Singel Plumbing Co., Rochester• Mechanical – Multi-Mechanical Service, Inc.,

Sterling Heights• Electrical – RCI Electric, Farmington Hills• Sound System – Ann Arbor Audio, Brighton


P R O D U C T S H O W C A S E

MasterForce™Cordless Circular SawEmpowers Home ProjectsThe MasterForce 6 1/2 in. Cordless Circular

Saw from Menards® is a smart circular sawchoice. This versatile, lightweight workhorseis operated by either an 18-volt lithium-ionor NiCd battery and delivers 4,500 rpm. Withsome basic circular saw techniques and afew other tools, homeowners are ready tobuild a deck, install shelves, construct apicnic table or make over the basement.

Plans and how-to advice for these and manyother DIY projects are available at homecenters, such as Menards. The height adjustment on the saw's base

lifts and lowers the blade to control thedepth of cut. There's also a bevel adjustmentthat tilts the blade from 0 to 45 degrees. Aspring-loaded blade guard preventsaccidental contact with the blade and has alever to pull back the guard when necessary.Another desirable feature is a blade brakethat immediately stops the blade's rotationwhen the trigger switch is released. Somesaws, such as the MasterForce, alsoincorporate an LED work light to helpilluminate the work surface.Most saws are equipped with a general

purpose 18- to 24-tooth, carbide-tippedblade, which combines fairly smooth cutting(smooth enough for most home projects)speed and long life. A 40-tooth trim bladeprovides a much smoother cut for finishcarpentry, but cuts more slowly. Specialtyblades for cutting masonry, metal, decking,vinyl and other materials also are available. More information is available at

www.menards.com.

Innovative PaintSmart-Trayz PaintSmart-Trayz is a unique new product

that offers an easy and efficient way forpainters to complete residential andcommercial painting tasks. These creativelydesigned paint accessories offer someconvenient benefits not offered by othersimilar paint products on the market.One of the most intriguing aspects of

PaintSmart-Trayz is that they can hangeither vertically on an extension ladder orhorizontally on a stepladder. ThePaintSmart-Trayz are easily portable thanksto a large carrying handle making transportup and down a ladder very simple. Theuniquely designed reservoir has high sidesand holds up to two quarts of paint to keeprefill trips on the ladder to a minimum. ThePaintSmart-Trayz also sport handy hooks forbrushes, and slots for paint rollers, allowingpaint to flow back into the tray preventingspills and drips. A clever twist cap drainspout allows painters to easily pour excesspaint back into the can. Lightweight yetsturdy, the plastic PaintSmart-Trayz arereusable and easily stored.The PaintSmart-Trayz sell for $12.99 and

are available at a growing number ofnational retailers, as well online atwww.PaintSmart-Trayz.com.

Magnalight Releases InlineLow Voltage HandheldSpotlight for 110/120V WallOutletsLarson Electronics announced the

addition of the Magnalight HL-85-HID-110V


HID spotlight for voltage ranging from 110-277 VAC in response for operators need forhigh powered handheld spotlights that willrun from a standard wall outlet. The HL-85-HID-110V handheld spotlight uses an inlinetransformer, so operators can plug thespotlight in the wall, but still use the lowvoltage spotlight in wet area applications. Larson Electronics released a version of its

popular HL-85-HID handheld spotlight thatwill enable users to plug the spotlight into aconventional 120V wall outlet. While initiallydesigned for security and huntingendeavors, the low voltage handheldspotlight and floodlight combination hasfound a home with utility operators.Whether in the plant or out in the field,utility operators can plug the light into astandard outlet in the wall or a 110v outletfrom their vehicle’s inverter and get thebenefit of the durability, beam adjustmentand high power light output formaintenance and repair operations. Thespotlight features an adjustable beam thatcan be configured as a wide flood or long,narrow spot beam. The 35 watt HIDspotlight has a 25-foot SOOW chemical andabrasion resistant cord and an inlinetransformer located near the standardstraight blade wall plug. The HL-85-HID-110V inline handheld spotlight is availablefor 110/120V, 220V or any other voltage to277V on 50/60 Hz for domestic or interna-tional use. The low voltage handheldspotlight is priced just over $400, draws only3 amps and delivers 3200 lumens.Accessories include a magnetic base,carrying case and a vehicle cord withcigarette plug cord. More information about these work lights

and the entire range of Magnalightindustrial and explosion proof lighting isavailable at mangalight.com, or by calling 1-800-369-6671 (1-903-498-3363 international).

TOTO Has Introduced theMaris CollectionTOTO has introduced the Maris Collection,

a reinterpretation of Mid-Century Moderndesign with an updated, approachablesensibility characterized by clean, simplelines and gracious curves, the essence ofarchitecture and designs for this period from1940 to 1960.

The Maris Two-Piece Dual Flush High-Efficiency Toilet (HET) appeals tohomeowners and design professionals withits versatile clean lines and contemporarygracious recessed-curve tank style. Itselongated bowl with skirted design savesowners’ time by making it very easy to clean.The sophisticated Maris two-piece designoffers TOTO's Universal Height ergonomics,making it both aesthetically pleasing and

PMC 46 Combilaser

Level, align, plumb and square – all in one.

Hilti. Outperform. Outlast.

Detroit Hilti Center28190 Schoolcraft Road

Livonia, MI 481501-800-879-8000 www.us.hilti.com

PMC 46 CombilaserPMC 46 Combilaser

in accordance with ASTM E 108, ICC-ESAC188, and ICC-ES AC48, as issued on ICC-ESEvaluation Report ESR-1737.Installation of IB-3 StormStopper is easily

performed by simply removing the releaseliner and pressing it into place. The productcan be cut using a utility knife and installedat eaves, valleys, vents, skylights andchimneys. A non-removable selvedge edgeallows for a secure seal on overlaps. Rollingthe seams with a hand roller completes theinstallation.For more information concerning IB-3

StormStopper, or MFM Building ProductsCorporation, please contact the company at:MFM Building Products, P.O. Box 340,Coshocton, OH 43812; phone: 800-882-7663;fax: 740-622-6161; visitwww.solutions.mfmbp.com or [email protected].

Lincoln Electric IntroducesNew Motorized Stem andWood Reel Dispensing SystemLincoln Electric has introduced a new

Stem and Wood Reel Dispensing System.This motorized wire dispensing system isdesigned for larger wire sizes from 1/16-inch(1.6 mm) to 3/16-inch (4.8 mm) in diameter.The heavy-duty design of this horizontaldereeler is ideal for use with LincolnElectric's bulk wire packages.The system allows for accurate wire

placement when using large diameter wireand is compatible with up to 2,200 LB (1000KG) bulk stems, as well as wood reels and upto 3/16-inch (4.8mm) diameter wire. It iscapable of dispensing large diameter wire atspeeds up to 250 inches per minute (IPM)and may be adjusted up to800 IPM for smallerdiameter wire.The dispensing

system helpseliminate common bulkwire challenges such aswire flip, flux-cored wiresplitting, excessive tip wear,pulsating, and burn back.The system performsthese functions with areliable, heavy-dutypneumatic motor thatensures consistent and accurate wiredelivery. With simple set-up and low maintenance,

the Stem and Wood Reel Dispensing Systemis well suited for customers looking for aneasy way to convert to bulk wire packages.The system also provides additional options


P R O D U C T S H O W C A S E

ADA compliant.An example of the kinds of engineering

advances that arise from TOTO’s People-FirstInnovation philosophy, this stylish HETfeatures the company’s new Dual-MaxCyclone Flushing System, which combinesDual-Max Flushing technology with TOTO’sworld-class Double Cyclone system. Toachieve this, TOTO engineers redesigned thebowl’s interior, replacing the overhangfound on traditional toilets with a concaverim through which the high-speed waterjets travel cleansing the rim and bowl,removing debris, matter, and bacteria witheach flush, which greatly reduces the timeneeded to clean the unit. To complete their innovative bowl design,

TOTO engineers coated the rim and bowlwith SanaGloss, the company’s nano-technology glaze that seals the porcelainwith an ionized barrier creating a super-slippery, non-porous surface thatrepels the waste and bacteria. Whenprotected by SanaGloss, the water thatrinses the bowl and rim as the toilet flusheshelps to remove stains, residue, scaling, andlime buildup. Invisible organisms, includingbacteria and molds, also are eliminated.Owners’ won’t need harsh detergents, whichare expensive and harmful to theenvironment. With these engineering People-First

innovations to the Maris Dual Flush HET’sbowl design, TOTO further reduced its waterconsumption, which is 1.28 gallons per flush(gpf ) for solid waste and 0.9 gpf for liquid.Averaging solid and liquid stops over thecourse of a day, the average flush for theelegant HET is 1.0 gpf. Its trip lever flushactuator, too, has a unique design: pullforward to activate the full 1.28 gpf flush,push backward to active the light 0.9 gpfflush.The new Dual Max Cyclone Flushing

System will put an end to a commoncomplaint that many dual-flush HET ownershave – the need to flush and brush afterevery solid stop. With the new Maris DualFlush HET, as the water spins around theSanagloss glazed bowl’s interior, the rapidly

rotating column of water removes streakingfrom the bowl sides. The Maris Suite has introduced two new

lavatory designs – undercounter and a semi-recessed vessel.The Maris Undercounter Lavatory is

characterized by the gracious curves andrefined lines that typify the suite. It isavailable in two sizes: large (20”x 15”) andmedium (17” x 14”), both of which are ADAcompliant. Their deep basin reduces water’ssplashing, and their SanaGloss glaze saveshomeowners time cleaning as the super-slippery surface repels bacteria and soapdebris. The Maris Semi-Recessed Vessel, too,

exemplifies the suite’s generous curves andclean lines. This 19.5” x 15” vessel isSanaGloss glazed for easy cleaning, and itsdeep basin reduces splashing.For more information, consumers may

visit www.totousa.com or call 1.888-295-8134 and select Option 5.

IB-3™ StormstopperUnderlayment by MFMBuilding ProductsMFM Building Products Corporation has

introduced IB-3™ StormStopper. Thisunderlayment product is specificallydesigned to install under roofing at edges,valleys and whole roof applications toprotect from water or moisture leaks.IB-3 StormStopper is a self-adhering

mineral surface underlayment, whichadheres directly to the roof deck. Thespecially formulated rubberized asphaltadhesive seals around fasteners and forms along-lasting barrier. The product isengineered to provide a water andweatherproof barrier against blowing rain,ice dams or the build-up of excessive water.The product comes with a protective splitrelease liner, which protects the productuntil installation.IB-3 StormStopper is offered in 67’ rolls x

36” width; in 200 sq. ft. cartons. The productis suitable for use in new construction andre-roofing installations, and is backed by a 5-year Limited Warranty. IB-3 StormStopper is


such as an easy-to-use conversion kit forwood reels, pneumatic feed assist for extralong conduits and a protective cover fordusty, dirty environments. Lincoln Electric also offers installation and

operation instructions for the Stem andWood Reel Dispensing System, which can beobtained by contacting [email protected]. Demonstrations of the Stem and Wooden

Reel Dispensing System can be scheduled atthe Lincoln Electric Automation Center ofExcellence, located at 22221 Saint ClairAvenue, Cleveland, OH 44117. Call 1-888-935-1836, or [email protected] for moreinformation or to schedule an appointment.

Meyer’s Zephyr Duct CleaningVacuum Offers a SmallFootprint and GreatPerformance

The Meyer Zephyr provides the power toget the duct cleaning job done. Powered bya 31 HP Briggs and Stratton engine for boththe custom-engineered fan and theKleanSweeper Compressor, the combinationdrive unit eliminates problems andmaintenance on a second engine while itsaves space and weight in vehicles. A simple unitary design makes installation

quick and easy into any standard truck bodyor cargo trailer. The Zephyr uses an exclusive multi-bag

filtration system designed to remove heavydebris and fine particles from the air streambefore they reach the fan. An easy accessfilter door located permits easy cleaning ofthe dirt collected by the 33 Dacron® Filterbags filtration system. Each Zephyr Duct Cleaning Vacuum is

backed with a standard two-year warranty.For more information, visit

www.wmwmeyer.com.


P E O P L E I N C O N S T R U C T I O N

Kalamazoo-based consulting engineeringfirm Byce & Associates, Inc. has announcedthe following hires: Fred Grunert, RA,NCARB, has joined the firm as projectarchitect; Daniel Swain, PE has joined thefirm as a mechanical engineer; and ErikRydman, PE, LEED BD+C, has joined thefirm as an electrical engineer.

Clark Construction Company, Lansing,has announced the addition of two studentsto assist in the company’s upcomingprojects through internships. Josh Pittsleyis currently a junior studying constructionmanagement at Michigan State Universityand is expected to graduate in May 2013. Hewill be assisting Clark Construction at theFireKeepers Hotel project in Battle Creek.Alex Newman is a freshman studyingconstruction management at Ferris StateUniversity. He will be helping ClarkConstruction with the St. Johns PublicSchools project. Clark Construction isserving as construction manager for boththe FireKeepers Hotel and the St. JohnsPublic Schools projects.

C O R P O R A T E N E W S

Lansing-based C2AE, a full-servicearchitectural, engineering, and planningdesign firm, was proud to announce its 45-year anniversary on June 28, 2011. The firmwas originally founded in 1966 as CapitolConsultants. Since that time, the firm hasopened three new offices, merged withGrand Rapids-based architecture firm,DesignWorks A/E in 2005, changed its nameto C2AE in 2007, and transitioned to a newCEO just last year. C2AE remains the largestA/E firm headquartered in Lansing.

G2 Consulting Group of Troy providedgeotechnical engineering and constructionquality nengineering services for twosoutheast Michigan road and sewerconstruction projects that won 2011Concrete Awards from the MichiganConcrete Association (MCA). The Nine MileRoad reconstruction, a rebuild of a four-lanemajor artery from Harper Avenue toJefferson Avenue in St. Clair Shores, wonhonorable mention in the Urban Arterials

Greater than 30,000 Square Yards category.The Kathy Street pavement reconstruction, acomplete reconstruction of the pavement,storm sewer and underdrain of thisresidential street from Frazho Road to PetrieAvenue in Roseville, won honorable mentionin the Residential Streets Category. Bothprojects were commended for completingthe rebuilds in phases to minimizedisruptions to traffic, residents andbusinesses.

Ann Arbor-based Hobbs+Black Associates,Inc. has been honored with two designawards as well as a certificate for CreativeUse of Lighting from the MichiganInternational Interior Design Association, attheir 2011 Michigan Interior DesignExcellence Awards. Hobbs+Black waspresented a Design Excellence Award in theHospitality Under 10,000sf category for theBoomTown Restaurant, and in theGovernment Over 10,000sf category for thenew Michigan State Police HeadquartersFacility. Hobbs+Black was also presented acertificate for Creative Use of Lighting forMASCO Cabinetry new corporate office.

Clark Construction Company, Lansing,has been named one of the 101 Best andBrightest Companies to Work For in WestMichigan by the Michigan Business &Professional Association (MBPA). Thisaccomplishment marks the fifth consecutiveyear Clark Construction has been honoredwith the prestigious award, whichrecognizes companies with the highestquality human resources initiatives. Anindependent research firm evaluates eachcompany’s entry based on key measures invarious categories. They includeCommunication, Community Initiatives,Compensation and Benefits, Diversity andMulticulturalism, Employee Education andDevelopment, Employee Engagement andCommitment, Recognition and Retention,Recruitment and Selection, Small Businessand Work-Life Balance.

Canton-based Plumbing Professors, a24-hour service plumbing, sewer repair andepoxy pipe lining company, has beenawarded a rain water conductor liningcontract by the Archdiocese of Detroit.

Detroit-based Aluminum SupplyCompany, Inc. is pleased to announce theaddition of David Chopp, formerly withTrufab, Inc., to their fabrication/estimatingteam. With over 20 years in the constructionindustry, Chopp specializes in the fabricationof custom stainless steel for residential,commercial and industrial applications.David’s experience and resources broadenthe scope of Aluminum Supply’s capabilitiesto provide standard and custom fabricatedstainless steel to the alternative energy,millwork and architectural buildingproducts industries.

The NationalAssociation of Women inConstruction (NAWIC)Lansing Chapter #177recently awarded MeganJacobs, PE, with theprestigious “NAWIC of theYear” Award. Jacobs servesas treasurer of NAWICLansing Chapter #177 and is a seniorengineer with Soil and Materials Engineers,Inc. (SME), Plymouth.

Integrated DesignSolutions, a Troy-basedarchitectural andengineering firm, is pleasedto announce the followingnew hires: Mark Reaves,AIA, LEED AP and BrandonSundberg, AIA, LEED APhave joined the firm assenior architects; and JoeSchwartz, PE, LEED APBD+C has joined the firm asmechanical engineer withexpertise in geothermalHVAC system design.

Giffels-WebsterEngineers, headquarteredin Rochester Hills, recentlyannounced that Scott Cleinhas been promoted fromassociate to executive vicepresident. Clein overseesand is responsible for theday-to-day management of the firm’sDetroit office and has supervised the designand implementation of hundreds of projectsthroughout southeast Michigan. Hisexpertise lies in helping public and privateclients successfully plan, design andimplement the rehabilitation of existinginfrastructure.

Jacobs

Reaves

Sundberg

Clein

SwainGrunert Rydman


CONSTRUCTIONCALENDAR Aug

Please submit all calendar items no less thansix weeks prior to the event to: Calendar Editor, CAM Magazine, P.O. Box 3204, Bloomfield Hills, MI 48302-3204.

Aug. 16 – CAM Connect Detroit Tigers Baseball Night – Comewatch the Detroit Tigers take on the Minnesota Twins at ComericaPark. Cost is $40, which includes a pre-game buffet and seating inthe Mezzanine section for the game.R.S.V.P. by contacting Mary Carabott at 248-972-1000, or visit

www.cam-online.com for more information.

Aug. 20 – CAM Connect Crusin’ Into CAM – Families are welcomeat this event, which is free to CAM Members. R.S.V.P. by August 10 toreserve an Exclusive All Access Pit Pass to watch the WoodwardDream Cruise from CAM’s Woodward Avenue location. R.S.V.P. by contacting Mary Carabott at 248-972-1000, or visit

www.cam-online.com for more information.

Aug. 23-Sept. 12 – CAM Golf Outings – August 23 – Fieldstone, Auburn HillsSeptember 12 – Paint Creek Country Club, Lake Orion To reserve a spot in either of these outings, call Diana Brown at

248-972-1000.

Sep. 22 – Building Connections – The seventh annual BuildingConnections, a networking event in conjunction with CAM to benefitthe Boy Scouts of America, Great Lakes Council, will be held at theParade Company in Detroit.For more information, call or e-mail Gregg Montowski at

248-972-1000 or [email protected].

Sep. 22-24 – IIDEX/NeoCon Canada – This conference andexposition presented by Interior Designers of Canada will be held atthe Direct Energy Center in Toronto.For more information, please visit www.iidexneocon.com.

Training CalendarCAMTEC Class ScheduleCAMTEC, the training & education center of the Construction

Association of Michigan, has announced its 2011 class schedule. Toregister, obtain a class listing, or for more class information, pleasevisit www.cam-online.com.Start Date ClassSep. 6 OSHA 30-HourSep. 13 Blueprint Reading II/Intermediate Sep. 14 Construction Industry Technician (C.I.T.)Sep. 15 Blueprint Reading I/BasicSep. 21 First Aid, CPR & AED

C O N S T R U C T I O N C A L E N D A R

NOW INCLUDESConstruction Pre-View Projects!!


A D V E R T I S E R S I N D E X

Aluminum Supply Company/Marshall Sales..........................6

Barlen Sanitation Solutions, Inc. ..............................................23

Beals Hubbard, PLC ................................................................14, 15

CAM Affinity ....................................................................................BC

CAM ECPN ........................................................................................33

CAM Membership ........................................................................IBC

Concrete Moisture Control ........................................................23

Connelly Crane Rental Corp. ......................................................31

Detroit Terrazzo Contractors Association..............................23

Doeren Mayhew ............................................................................28

Facca, Richter & Pregler, P.C. ..........................................................8

G2 Consulting Group....................................................................31

Hartland Insurance Group, Inc. ....................................................5

Hilti ......................................................................................................29

Interface Financial Group ............................................................8

Jeffers Crane Service, Inc. ..............................................................3

Kotz, Sangster, Wysocki and Berg, P.C. ....................................13

Lawrence Technological University ........................................10

McCoig Materials ..............................................................................5

Michigan Concrete Association ..................................................3

North American Dismantling Corp. ........................................20

Oakland Companies ........................................................................7

Plante & Moran, PLLC....................................................................22

Plumbing Professors ....................................................................34

Plunkett Cooney ............................................................................19

R.L. Deppmann Co. ..........................................................................7

Rick's Portables ..............................................................................10

Rolland L. Stapleton & Associates ............................................20

SMRCA................................................................................................18

Sullivan, Ward, Asher & Patton, P.C. ..........................................16

Valenti Trobec Chandler, Inc./Griffin Smalley & Wilkerson ................................................IFC

Woods Contruction Inc. ..............................................................23

As you all are probably aware, the 2011 Construction Buyers Guide has been

out on the street for several months now. In an effort to keep our

information as accurate and up-to-date as possible, we’re including here all

the changes and corrections we have received for members’ company listings as

of July 11. Changes from the book are in bold.

To see continually amended company listings, check out the Buyers Guide Online at www.cam-online.com,

updated about the 15th of every month.

Return to this section every month in CAM Magazine to get heads-up information and news involving the

Construction Buyers Guide. Questions? Contact Mary Carabott at 248-972-1000 for answers and to find out how to

add to your online listings. No updates will be made to the online Buyers Guide from July 15 thru January 30.

To obtain additional copies of the Guide, stop by the CAM office and pick them up at no additional charge, or

send $6 per book for shipping to have the books sent to your company via UPS. Please call ahead of time for author-

ization if your firm requires a substantial number of copies.

Invoices for the listings have been generated and mailed. Prompt payment ensures a good-standing

membership and ability to list in the 2012 Buyers Guide. We will gladly answer any questions regarding charges

on invoices.

Preparation for the 2012 Buyers Guide has begun – look for renewal forms in your mail in

mid-August.

B U Y E R S G U I D E U P DAT E S - W E LC O M E N E W M E M B E R S

American Carpet Wholesale & Supply5930 Commerce Dr.Westland, MI 48185Phone: 734-464-0733

Berkley Research Group (BRG)3250 W. Big Beaver Rd., Suite 327Troy, MI 48084Phone: 248-566-4051Fax: 248-643-4782

Bolhouse, LLC2704 Edward St.Jenison, MI 49428Phone: 616-209-7543Fax: 616-209-7547

Cranbrook Insurance Agency30200 Telegraph Rd., Suite 137Bingham Farms, MI 48025Phone: 248-335-0000Fax: 248-335-9850

Shaw Electric Co.(Replaces Livonia location only)22100 Telegraph Rd.Southfield, MI 48033Phone: 248-228-2000Fax: 248-228-2080

Spirit & Sons, Inc.(Formerly Spirit Roofing Co., Inc.)60 SummitBrighton, MI 48116Phone: 810-225-6500Fax: 810-225-2277

TEMP-AIR, Inc.21703 Mound Rd.Warren, MI 48091Phone: 800-678-1488Fax: 586-427-2783

Trane37001 Industrial Rd.Livonia, MI 48150Phone: 734-452-2000Fax: 734-452-2020

BUYERS GUIDEUpdates

W E L C O M E N E W M E M B E R SADAMS BUILDING CONTRACTORS, INC.,JACKSON

ALCO GLASS AND MIRROR, INC.,BERKLEY

APPLIED ENERGY, LLC, SAGINAW

BAY PLASTICS MACHINERY CO., BAY CITY

C & I DISMANTLING, INC., MT. CLEMENS

COLLINS EINHORN FARRELL & ULANOFF,SOUTHFIELD

DIAMA SHIELD, LLC, MADISON HTS.

EMPIRE WIRE & SUPPLY, AUBURN HILLS

KONE ELEVATOR, LIVONIA

LOUIE'S TREE SERVICES, COMMERCE TWP.

MID-STATE RIGGING, BURTON

MILLER COMMUNICATIONS,CLIO

CALL NOW!!! Ask for Sales Manager, Pete Cunningham

SAVE TIME & MONEY with a cost effective alternative to traditional dig methods of pipe repair and replacement. Cure In Place Piping (CIPP) offers the structural strength of new pipe but is less invasive and more environmentally friendlythan traditional “dig and replace” pipe repair methods.

Commercial & Industrial work including

Hydrojetting Spot Repairs

Pipe Cleaning

CALL NOW ABOUT PIPE LINING

Plumbing Professors Specializes in:

Sewer Cleaning

Pipe Lining

for hospitals, nursing homes, schools, restaurants, apartment buildings, plants & malls/shopping centers

Pipe Locating

Color DVD Camera Inspection

PIPE RELINING

e e e ngha

Call the CAM Membership Dept. today(248) 972-1000 or (989) 754-4872

Also visit us at www.cam-online.comAnnual dues to CAM are $295 with a first time $90 initiation fee.

It’s easy...REFER AN ASSOCIATE TO BECOME A MEMBER OF

Help us increase our membership base, which will enable us to expand our range of services, keep pricing consistent and better serve the membership.

Think of people and firms that you do business with that are not listed in the Construction Buyers Guide.

These people are not members of your association. Sign these firms up for membership in CAM and you will receive

$50 toward renewal of your MEMBERSHIP, CONSTRUCTION PROJECT NEWS subscriptionOR

one of the following, a $50 HOME DEPOT Gift Card or a $50 SPEEDWAY Gas Cardfor each member firm you sign up!

Members receive discounted credit card processing, no set-up fees and no account minimums.

Discount Credit CardProcessing Service

Call Tina Allcorn at (248) 623-4430

Call William Jeffrey at (248) 723-6400

More than 13,000 copies of thiscomprehensive construction industrydirectory are distributed. Marketingopportunity through special classifiedsection. Offered online and in print.

Call (800) 954-0423 for more information

Speedway LLC SuperFleet fueling program can save your company 5 cents per gallon on fuel, and 15% off at Valvoline Instant Oil Change locations.

Call Greg Haase at (248) 530-2149

Member Services?

Call Jamie Mitchell at (248) 426-1601

cam magazine august 2011

Documents

michigans new concrete

improved concrete mixtures

crane selection

old education building

erection crane rental

againstawarding project

light shinehot colors

lift planning