The Owners' Manual - Issue 7

issue 7. spring 2016

table of contents

BL Buzz

All Things Owners

FYI

Around BL ........................ 1-5 Question of the Quarter / Get to Know .................. 5-13 Veterans Memorial .......... 22

30 Acts of Kindness .... 16-18 30 th Anniversary Facts ..... 19 HYPE .................................. 15

Safety Topic ...................... 14 Legal Brief ......................... 20 IT Tip .................................. 21 Happenings ...................... 23

Front & Back Covers: Hartford Veteran's Memorial. See Page 22 for more info.

FedEx Middletown broke ground on a sunny day in May 2016. L-R: Rai Muhlbauer, Derek Kohl, Bob Celata, Stan Novak, Ray Gradwell, Mark Heeb, and Denis Rioux

KUDOS, BL!

Paul Curcio and Algis Kalvaitis accepted the Lucy G. Moses Award for two of BL's projects - Floyd Bennett Field and the Coignet Building.

A "crew" from BL accepted two more awards for BL at the CREW Blue Ribbon Awards Event - Services Plazas and Jordan's Furniture won top honors!

Mina Almengor and Heather Halotek accepted BL's AACE ESOP Association Award in Washington, DC, for the "Total Communications" category.

// page 1

(and gets some exercise at the same time!)

Central PA Foodbank BL Companies has donated food to the Central PA Foodbank, but on May 18 th a group from Camp Hill volunteered their time to help out this organization. Way to go!

// page 3

BL BUZZ: WHAT’S BEEN HAPPENING AROUND BL?

 BL's 'Kaped Krusaders of KOP' participated in the Sandy Sprint Superhero race to raise money for Ovarian Cancer Research.  The Camp Hill office walked for MS Research.  A few brave folks (and furry friends) from the Meriden office braved some downpours to walk for the American Heart Association.  Bob Klein from Bridgeport represented BL at the Warrior Dash.  Camp Hill celebrated Cinco de Mayo with a fun, food-filled fiesta!  KOP had a Cinco de Mayo fiesta of their own, complete with matching sombreros for all.  Molly Keereweer, Jocelyn Taylor and Mike Anderson wore the appropriate headwear for Meriden's Cinco de Mayo festivities.  David Parent and Ana Suprenant in Meriden showed off matching Employee Owner / Committee Member gear.  Geoff Fitzgerald proved that wearing a sombrero wouldn't muss up his hair!

// page 5

Photo credit: Jeff Bord

Who’s got talent? We all do. Talent is an ability, natural capacity or even the potential that we have, ranging from creativity, intellect or social skills to our athletic abilities. We all have talents, skills and knowledge that set us apart. In this issue, some of talent hidden within the walls of BL Companies are about to be revealed.

// page 7

Michael Layton | KOP When visiting the King of Prussia office, take a peek into Michael Layton’s cubicle and you’ll discover his not so hidden talent of photography. Here are some examples of his work.

Meet two talented photographers at BL Companies. Michael Layton, King of Prussia, and Jeff Bord, Meriden, share not only a love of photography but the superior skill of capturing beautiful moments and places within a single frame.

Jeff Bord | Meriden Although he represents the Connecticut office, most of Jeff Bord’s photographs showcased here are from RI and Hawaii. It’s a rough life, but someone has to photograph it.

// page 9

Artists use all sort of media from charcoals and oils to sharpies and pencils. Karina Molnar from Meriden and Denis Rioux from Hartford are artists with the hidden talent of portraiture, still life and cartooning. They chose very different subjects but each showcase the artist from within.

Denis Rioux | Hartford Denis has been creating his likeness in comic form from his early published work to holiday cards. His cartoon self even can be seen on recent labels made for the Hartford office move.

Karina Molnar | Meriden Karina Molnar’s work showcases four works that are complet hidden talent of cake decorating and promised to bring in so

Liz Augustine | Meriden From a desire for a unique strap for a cell phone— to more artistic beading (kumihimo braiding and peyote stitch shown below)—came an interest in making jewelry and other art pieces in a hot kiln for Liz Augustine (Meriden). The media used are fused glass and metal…metal clay to be specific. Fused glass is fun, metal clay still a challenge! Honing this talent is ongoing by taking classes whenever she can, and aIthough Liz isn’t sure if jewelry making is a true talent, it is a way to stay in touch with her artistic side.

d and two that are still in process. Karina also mentioned a e cupcakes to verify it.

// page 11

Jocelyn Taylor | Meriden The athletically talented Jocelyn Taylor from Meriden revealed that she can do the Crow Pose (pictured left) in yoga. Although she stated that it is actually a lot easier than you think…the BL Safety Committee has requested that you only try this under proper supervision.

Steve Hamilton | Norwood Steve Hamilton is a dancer, this hidden talent was showcased at the 2015 Christmas party. When requesting a photo from the party for the newsletter, the attendees said “I was so much in awe of Steve’s moves that I never thought to take out my camera.” His striking and stylish dance moves will just have to be observed the next time the music is playing and the dancefloor is clear.

Tom Hamilton | Norwood Tom Hamilton’s talent is known within the antique car community. Tom’s knowledge of Corvettes is called upon to validate whether a classic car is truly a classic or a fraud.

A ping pong champion located in the Meriden super cube? Maybe? Or Maybe not? Feel free to challenge Mike Anderson to a match the next time a ping pong table is available and just maybe he will surprise you with his Forrest Gump champion ping pong flair.

We have a superhero in our midst, a Clark Kent type, residing in architecture. It was revealed through the question of the quarter that this employee’s talent is “leaping tall buildings in a single bound.” This outstanding talent could not be proven for fear that his true Superman identity would revealed putting our planet at risk. Let’s just say – don’t serve Rai Muhlbauer any kryptonite cupcakes.

// page 13

No matter how much experience you have, it’s always a good idea to review boating safety rules before setting sail and embarking in activities on the water. Wear A Properly Fitted Lifejacket or PFD Did you know that the majority of drowning victims are the result of boaters not wearing their lifejackets? Make sure that your family and friends aren’t part of this statistic by assigning and fitting each member of your onboard team with a life jacket prior to departure. Wear it! Don’t Drink and Boat Alcohol and boating don’t mix! “Leave the beer on the pier, and have water on the water.”The probability of being involved in a boating accident doubles when alcohol is involved and studies have shown that the effects of alcohol are exacerbated by sun and wind. Have a Skipper If you are out for a pleasure cruise or fishing trip, it’s good to make sure there is someone else on board who is familiar with the boat and who can safely operate the boat if needed. Check the Weather Understanding weather and water conditions is important to safe boating. Know what is in the forecast so you’re not stuck in poor boating conditions. Check Your Required Safety Equipment Make sure you have the required boating safety equipment for your boat and that it is in good working order. Make sure that your flashlight has working batteries!

Communicate Your Plan Let a responsible person know where you will be boating, when you are expecting to arrive home, and who else is on board. Know Your Waterway Safe boating is more than just knowing how to safely operate your boat and having your required safety equipment – you need to understand local hazards. Refer to marine charts for the waterways where you’ll be operating, locate local hazards and preferred navigation channels. Learn to Swim If you’re going to be in and around the water, proper boating safety includes knowing how to swim. Local organizations, such as the American Red Cross and others, offer training for all ages and abilities. Check to see what classes are offered in your area. And finally… Use Common Sense One of the most important parts of boating safety is to use your common sense. This means operating at a safe speed at all times (especially in crowded areas), staying alert at all times and steering clear of large vessels and watercraft that can be restricted in their ability to stop or turn. Also, be respectful of buoys and other navigational aids, all of which have been placed there to ensure your own safety.

Source: http://www.discoverboating.com

Have you heard about HYPE? HYPE is an initiative of the MetroHartford Alliance aiming to promote personal and professional development through social events, community service, networking programs, and more! With over 3,000 members, HYPE continues to thrive and introduce more and more young adults to the lifestyle and opportunities that the Hartford Region has to offer. There are many benefits to joining, some being: Expanding your networking pool – HYPE offers events such as CEO Luncheons where members are able to converse and relate to the Hartford Region’s foremost CEO’s. Getting involved with your community – Connect yourself with numerous organizations and events such as the Traveler’s Championship or HYPE’s annual Toy Drive. Growing as a person and employee – Get HYPEd every first Wednesday of the month. Enjoy the company of other HYPE members in a casual fun environment and represent BL Companies in the Greater Hartford region. AND as an added bonus, it’s free! As a strategic partner of the MetroHartford Alliance, BL Companies holds a Company Sponsored Membership meaning we offer membership to all of our employees as an advantage. Once a member, you are invited to more than 70 events throughout the year where you are able to build relationships with other young professionals in Hartford. Get involved as much or as little as you want. Whether you attend an event or join a committee HYPE is a great opportunity for all!

// page 17

30 Acts of Kindness in Celebration of 30 Years

or 30 years BL Companies has left an imprint on the world by designing and enhancing the built and natural environment. Over the years this impactful use of our design talents has created incredible spaces and buildings for people shop, learn and work, roads to drive on and bridges to travel over, allowed for vernal pools to coexist with the growth of businesses and energy to transfer from one region to another. These are exciting footprints of a company to leave behind. In celebration of these 30 years and the more than 30 years to follow, the Giving Back Committee is putting a celebratory “ 30 for 30 ” challenge out there to all of our extraordinary employee owners. More specifically --

For 30 years BL Companies has had an impact on our communities by delivering quality work and employing talented people. Over the next few months, in celebration of our 30th anniversary, there will be events held throughout BL to leave our mark on the communities where we work and live. Hands on volunteering opportunities at foodbanks and shelters, blood drives and dog walking are just a few things on the schedule. Acts of Kindness big and small are remarkable gifts. If all of our 225+ employee owners were to meet this challenge of 30 acts of kindness – nearly 7,000 sparks of kindness would be ignited by our employee owners. Over the summer Acts of Kindness “Shout Out” boards will be appearing in each of the offices showcasing acts of kindness that were given by our employee owners as well as received. Have fun with this challenge and remember – It’s a celebration!

30 Acts of Kindness in Celebration of 30 Years

// page 17

Here are just a few of the ways to give back and be that person who leaves an indelible mark in celebration of our 30 years.

Keep unopened kids’ meal toys in your purse to give to kids you encounter (with their parent’s permission). Pay for someone’s meal at a restaurant. Make extra meals to share with a sick or busy neighbor. Share the bounty of your vegetable garden with co- workers and friends. Offer to keep a friend’s kids so she and her husband can have some time alone. Make hats for kids with cancer. Make cards for nursing home residents…and deliver them with your kids. Pick up trash at the park. Thank a soldier. Donate DVD’s or video games to hospitals and/or soldiers. Make care bags for the homeless – toiletry items, bottled water, food store gift cards, non-perishable/ ready-to-eat foods. Buy car wash coupons and give them away. Make care packages for soldiers. Clean house for a friend or family member while she’s on vacation. Leave extra coupons on the store shelf next to the item they’re good for. Pack a bag for someone undergoing chemo – include snacks, bottled water, magazines, word-find games, a mechanical pencil, and a good book. Tape envelopes with quarters to vending machines. Take homemade cookies or cupcakes to the police or fire station. Save change throughout the year and donate to a local organization

Pay for the order of the person behind you in the drive-thru line. Send friends and relatives notes or letters of encouragement. Give blood. Visit the Humane Society to play with the dogs or cats Leave love notes for your spouse or kids in places like a briefcase or clothing drawer. Bring water, coffee, or lemonade to outdoor workers. Put your neighbor’s trashcans away for them after pick- up. Buy a soda or candy bar for the cashier when you’re checking out. Give a restaurant or coffee gift card to someone (bank cashier, postal worker, homeless person, or random stranger). Send a silly card to brighten someone’s day. Call or email someone you haven’t talked to in awhile, just to ask how they are. Send your spouse or partner a text just to tell him/her something that you appreciate about him. Hide a kind note in a library book. Take the middle seat on a flight. Help someone at the grocery store reach that high shelf. Clean up graffiti. Donate your used books to a school, library or even office. Cut someone’s grass. Bake cookies for someone. (friend, neighbor, elderly friend, co-worker, postman etc.) Leave coins on a parking meter or the machines at a laundry mat.

Pay the toll for the car behind you. Help someone load their groceries. Pack a date-night box (movie rental card, popcorn, soft drinks, movie candy) and leave it on someone’s doorstep. Ring the bell and run! Get a group together to make a meal for your local Ronald McDonald House. Purchase a store gift card or a gas card and send it to a friend in need. >> For inspiration visit https://www. randomactsofkindness.org/kindness-ideas Have some ideas of your own, feel free to share with the Giving Back Committee and we will add them to the list! Offer to return someone’s shopping cart to the store. Let someone go ahead of you in the checkout line. Take flowers to a nurses’ station – for the nurses. Let someone pull out or turn in front of you in traffic, if it’s safe to do so.

In 1986, the NY Mets, Bears, Celtics and Canadians were sports champions, Aerosmith and Run DMC mixed rock and hip hop with “Walk This Way”, Top Gun and Cheers were on screens both big and small and historically BL Companies started its epic journey in the A/E world.

Thirty years of BL Companies is to be celebrated this summer. Whether you were here from early on or just joined BL recently, you are part of the history of this firm and as such will continue to transform our business and culture through your hard work, dedication, teamwork and accountability.

30

BL Companies was established in 1986 by a wife and husband team (Eve Barakos and Bob Landino - (Does that solve the BL name mystery for you?) This once family-owned business offered traffic, transportation and survey services at the start.

2

The number of employee owners who have been at BL before 1990. Can you figure out who they are? Hint: They started in 1988 &1989.

By the turn of the century, BL had expanded its service offerings to provide a full array of Architecture, Engineering, Environmental and Land Surveying services throughout the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic.

2000

44

of our employee owners are younger than BL born in 1987 or later.

BL became an ESOP in 2006. BL turned a new page in ownership and leadership in 2001 with the departure of Eve Barakos who stepped down as President and left the business. In 2005, Bob Landino sold the business to a small group of senior employees at BL. Those senior leaders decided to move BL towards a broader based ownership structure via an ESOP (initially 70%) which started BL’s journey with employee ownership and engagement.

100

In 2011, BL Companies became 100% employee-owned.

7

Number of employee owners celebrating a 30th birthday this year as well. (You know who you are but can we guess?)

// page 19

Legal Brief

By the Legal Dept.

Practical advice based on BL’s policies and procedures as well as things that might be helpful in your life outside BL.

Indemnification - that nasty clause in a client-written contract that the Legal Department is always harping on. What does it mean? What are the risks? Simply speaking, indemnification is the agreement to assume a specific liability in the event of a loss. It may mean a shifting of risk from one party to another. When a consultant indemnifies a client, the consultant may be taking on a client’s actual or potential legal liabilities. When a contractor assumes control of an owner’s property and occupies it for the purpose of constructing something on it, it’s reasonable to ask the contractor to hold the owner of the property harmless from liability for anything that happens on the site. The same logic does not apply to architects, engineers, environmental scientists or land surveyors. Consultants do not occupy or exercise constructive control over the jobsite. Instead they are providing professional and rather intangible services for the benefit of a client and it makes no

sense for them to have to provide the same protection as a contractor. Safe to say, I could take up the entire Owners’ Manual with the ins and outs of indemnification language but I doubt any of you would want to read it. Here’s the bottom line and what we are insured for – Consultant agrees, to the fullest extent permitted by law, to indemnify and hold harmless the Client against damages, liabilities and costs arising from the negligent acts, errors or omissions of the Consultant in the performance of the professional services under this Agreement. Note what words you are NOT seeing – “defend”, “claims, suits”, “except for the sole negligence of the client”, etc. etc. As always, the Legal Department must review any client-drafted contract before signing. We welcome any and all questions regarding indemnification and if people are interested, would be happy to do a Lunch with Legal just on contract language.

Bluebeam | Snapshot

If you are looking to take a piece of any open PDF file using Bluebeam you’re going to enjoy the SNAPSHOT tool. You do not always need to crop the file to transfer content and the snapshot tool will make an image of the data for you to paste into different applications. There are settings to improve the quality of the snapshot which will in turn make a larger file.

> You can find the tool on the “EDIT”menu and locate the “SNAPSHOT” tool.

by Doug Campbell

> Draw the boundary you are looking for, flip to the other application and simply Paste (CTRL +V) the image in.

Have an idea for the newsletter? We'd love to hear it!

Please reach out to Heather Halotek or Jessica Osborne.

// page 21

Veterans Memorial at Minuteman Park | Hartford, CT

BL In the News

BL Companies served as the lead landscape architect for the Veterans Memorial project in Hartford, CT -- the project was recently featured in Connecticut's ASLA Annual Publication. The Veterans Memorial at Minuteman Park provides the State of Connecticut with a setting to honor members of the United States Armed Forces and serves as a gathering place for large Memorial Day and Veterans Day events.

Click here to read the full article.

Memorial Day | May 30, 2016

Memorial Day may unofficially mark the beginning of the summer season, but the day is really meant to honor Americans who have died while in military service.We appreciate those that have served, and remember the lives that have been lost serving our country.

May 8 Mother's Day 11-13 LDEP Session #2

20 Employee Owner Meeting 30 Memorial Day (day off!)

June 19 Father's Day 20 First Day of Summer

July 4 Independence Day 27-29 LDEP Session #3

Did you know... Birthdays and BL anniversaries can be found on the Intranet!

// page 23

Issue 7: Spring 2016

Newsletter TEAM Director: Heather Halotek Members: Liz Augustine Jessica Osborne Kathy Rodo Jocelyn Taylor Contributors: Douglas Campbell Julia O'Brien

Special THANK YOU to all that contributed to the Question of the Quarter - Hidden Talents