Autumn 2017 THE ASPLUNDH TREE · THE ASPLUNDH TREE Autumn 2017 ON THE COVER Yellow, orange and red autumn leaves make a brilliant contrast to the dark evergreens along a waterfall

Autumn 2017

THE ASPLUNDH TREE

THEASPLUNDH

TREEAutumn 2017

ON THE COVERYellow, orange and red autumn leaves make a brilliant contrast to the dark evergreens along a waterfall in the White Mountains of New Hampshire. See page 5 for related article on New Hampshire Electric Cooperative. (Photo by Songquan Deng/Shutterstock)

The Asplundh TREE is a family magazine, published three times a year for all employees and friends of the Asplundh companies.

Asplundh welcomes requests to reprint or otherwise duplicate this magazine, in whole or in part. Please contact the Managing Editor of Corporate Communications at the address below for permission, or call 1-800-248-TREE (in the U.S. or Canada).

© 2017 Asplundh Tree Expert, LLC

Asplundh Tree Expert, LLC 708 Blair Mill Road, Willow Grove, PA 19090 www.asplundh.com

Printed on recycled paper

MANAGING EDITOR CORPORATE COMMUNICATIONSPatti Chipman

WRITER/EDITORKristin Wild

ASSISTANT EDITOR/GRAPHICS SPECIALISTRonnie Gauker

INTERNAlexandra Lee

CEO SCOTT ASPLUNDH ELECTED CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD

The board of Asplundh Tree Expert, LLC has elected Scott M. Asplundh to the position of

chairman of the board in addition to his responsibilities as chief executive officer (CEO). With 37 years of experience in field operations and corporate management, he represents the highest level of leadership within the third generation family members who now manage this international corporation, which is soon to be celebrating its 90th year of business.

Although Scott has already served as the CEO for seven years, the board chose

to add the responsibilities of board chairman since the health of former Chairman Christopher B. Asplundh, Sr. was declining in July. Then, on August 10 at the age of 77, Chris passed away (see next page for full obituary).

In the months before his passing, Chris expressed his confidence in the leadership experience that Scott has attained through his many years of meeting challenges and building successes for the company. Scott follows in the footsteps of his grandfather, Griffith, and great uncles, Carl and Lester, who boldly founded the company in 1928. In addition, his late father, Paul, worked for the company for 40 years and served as chairman of the board from 1995 to 1997.

Scott joined the company full-time in 1980 after earning a bachelor’s degree in economics from St. Lawrence University in New York. He went on to earn an MBA from Pennsylvania State University in 1982. Although he had worked part-time since 1976 on various tree crews as a college student, Scott spent the next several years gaining more field experience with assignments in Connecticut, Massachusetts and Illinois. In late 1987, after two years as a field manager of Asplundh operations in Missouri and eastern Kansas, he was elected vice president and returned to the corporate headquarters in Willow Grove, Pennsylvania.

As the company expanded and diversified in the 1990s, Scott took on oversight responsibility for several field management regions in the U.S., Australia and New Zealand, as well as subsidiary operations in utility construction and underground utility locating. In January 2001, he was elected president of the company and in September 2010, the board of directors elected him CEO. A leader in creating a strong safety culture throughout the organization, Scott has also been a major force in implementing telematics for the corporation’s equipment fleet.

Scott is a member of various industry organizations including the International Society of Arboriculture, the Utility Arborist Association and the Tree Care Industry Association, and is an active participant in Edison Electric Institute conferences. He currently serves as the chairman of the Electrical Transmission and Distribution Strategic Partnership in conjunction with the Occupational Safety and Health Administration. This group of utility industry executives focuses on reducing fatalities and injuries for employees who work near or on power lines. In 2013, he earned Penn State University’s Smeal Graduate Distinguished Achievement Award.

Residing in Meadowbrook, Pennsylvania, Scott and his wife of 37 years, Hali, are the parents of two adult children, Madeleine and Jared.

Scott M. Asplundh Chairman of the Board and CEO

CONTENTS

Christopher B. Asplundh: 1939-2017 .......1Safety Success Is No Accident ...................2In The Service Of Community Trees .......4Co-op Corner ...............................................5Management Update ....................................6Orchids ...........................................................9Crews & News .............................................12Retirees Honored .......................................16In Memoriam ................................................17

INMEMORIAM

The Asplundh TREEAutumn 2017 1

C hristopher B. Asplundh, Sr., chairman of the Asplundh Tree Expert Co. board of directors and father of Executive Vice President Chris Asplundh, Jr., passed away peacefully at home on August 10 at the age of 77. He had

been battling cancer since 2011.

“The energy and leadership that Chris put into this company was tremendous. The way he shared his knowledge and experience was always appreciated and will be greatly missed,” said Chairman of the Board / Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Scott M. Asplundh.

Chris was the son of the late Carl Hjalmar Asplundh, one of the three brothers who founded the Asplundh Tree Expert Co. in 1928. He started working on various tree crews in 1957 and continued part-time while attending college. In 1962, he graduated from the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia, and then served in the U.S. Marine Corps.

Chris began his full-time career with Asplundh in 1963, overseeing line clearance operations in Illinois, New Jersey and the New England states. In 1968, he was elected vice president and moved back to work in the company’s headquarters in Jenkintown, Pennsylvania at the time. Over the next two decades his executive responsibilities continued to grow and before his election to company president in 1992, he was overseeing the operations of 12 field divisions, as well as the Safety Department. Chris was named CEO and chairman of the board in 2001. Nine years later, he retained his chairman position when Scott M. Asplundh was elected CEO.

A 54-year company veteran who led the organization through exponential growth and major industry and economic changes, Chris was also a champion of the “Reimagine Cancer Care” capital campaign to help build the Asplundh Cancer Pavilion just around the corner from the Home Office in Willow Grove. He served on various charitable and non-profit boards, and was an avid sportsman and outdoorsman who was passionate about wildlife and its preservation.

Chris is survived by his wife of 50 years, Ellen; son Chris, Jr.; daughter Meredith and her husband, Timothy Gardner; grandchildren Alexander and Paige Gardner; brothers Carl, Jr. and Edward; sister Emily Jane Lemole; as well as extended Asplundh family members in the company and around the world. Please join us in remembering and honoring the energy and passion that Chris put into his work for Asplundh. His loss will be deeply mourned.

Christopher B. Asplundh1939-2017

Christopher B. Asplundh Chairman of the Board 2010 to 2017

Tough, yet always a sense of humor! Home Office Holiday Assembly 2015

President of the Company 1992 to 2001

During this time, Asplundh established line clearance operations in six nations beyond the U.S. (three remain); acquired several vegetation management and utility infrastructure businesses, large and small; diversified into services such as meter reading and underground utility locating; dealt with deregulation of the utility industry; put 15 third generation family members through its own multi-year management training program (eight remain); and the employee count grew from about 15,000 to over 26,000.

Avid outdoorsman and wildlife conservationist

The Asplundh TREEAutumn 20172

SAFETY SUCCESS I S N O AC C I D E N T

by Bruce Mellott Vice President of Corporate Safety

O ver the past decade, we have witnessed many changes in the practices utilities use as they constantly strive for a more reliable electrical system. They are doing

everything they can to keep the power on. The shift has resulted in the increased demand for the removal of potentially hisk-risk trees, as opposed to repeated routine pruning.

Our employees have adapted to this and have become more knowledgeable and skillful with their tree removal practices, as well as proactively recognizing hazardous trees before they fail and cause an incident. However, incidents still occur and there is a significant risk that the trend could continue without immediate action.

To prevent these types of incidents from happening, the Corporate Safety Department continues to research new and safer tree felling practices. The additional information and improved tools we have gained through root cause analysis also allow for continued growth in our development of best practices.

The following is a summary of the five-step process that shall be followed on every tree removal:

STEP 1: Hazards and Height—The crew determines the height of the tree by utilizing either the “stick” method or a company approved app on a smartphone or tablet computer. The trunk, leaders, and branches are inspected for decay. The jobsite is set up to provide protection of the crew and public. Danger zone(s) are established and clearly marked. When appropriate, ropes are set with employees properly trained in pulling techniques.

STEP 2: Tree Lean—The crew must have a full understanding of the consequences of the lean and utilize proper techniques to identify any forward, back or side lean potential. After determining the lean of the tree, a “Good” and “Bad” side of the tree is established in the majority of cases in order to determine where the back cut should be made.

STEP 3: Escape Route—The crew creates a safe, unobstructed and clearly marked escape route, ideally at a 45 degree exiting angle from the tree being felled. A dry run of the established escape route is conducted to ensure knowledge of the route, as well as identify any other potential hazards. The escape route must be utilized without hesitation when the tree begins to fall.

STEP 4: Notch Cut—The crew determines the safest direction to fell the tree, and an open face notch (70 degrees or greater) is cut into the trunk. The open face notch begins with the top angle cut first, followed by the bottom cut. The tree feller issues audible warnings to fellow crew members before starting the cut.

A notch cut shall be no more than 1/3 of the tree’s total diameter. No bypass cuts should ever be made.

STEP 5: Back Cut—Once the crew is fully prepared for the tree to be felled, the feller completes the back cut. Three-way communication is used with all members of the crew prior to starting the back cut. Once the back cut is complete and/or the tree begins to fall, the feller immediately utilizes the escape route and if necessary, alerts the rope handler(s) to initiate the proper rope pulling technique.

The job is not over once the tree falls. Stumps should be inspected, and all aspects of the tree felling operation evaluated, to determine what went right and/or wrong. Post-job briefings provide valuable lessons to the crew for future tree felling operations.

The Corporate Safety Department has developed a number of educational tools, including several short videos, on the different steps related to tree felling. The videos are located on the Employee Portal under the Safety Operations Group’s video section. An online computer-based training program is also available for employees through the BirdDogHR Learning Management System and on-site trainings are offered monthly to our operations all across our footprint.

It is important that we continue to strive for consistency in best practices, as well as learn from our mistakes. If you have already participated in a tree felling training class, thank you. If you have not yet had this opportunity, I encourage you to let your manager know of your interest. Courses are scheduled for later this year with more to follow in 2018. Stay safe.

Bruce Mellott [email protected]

t April 26 in Appleton: Crews of Supervisors Dean Delsman and Bob Kubacki, working on the properties of Wisconsin Public Service and American Transmission Company

u April 25 in Milwaukee:

Crews of Supervisor Jesse

Long, working on the property of We Energies


WITH TRAINING AND PRACTICE

RECOGNIZING SAFETY SUCCESSES

p April 19 in Milwaukee: Crews of Supervisor Jesse Long, working on the property of We Energies

u Eleven of Asplundh’s finest participated in a ‘Train the Trainer’ program for tree felling held in Seymour, Wisconsin on May 23-24. Led by Corporate Safety

Trainers Ray Apking and Sean Graziano, these new tree felling trainers are now sharing their safe and effective skills in the Joe Schneider and Joe Sterbenz Regions. They work on the properties of Wisconsin Public Service, We Energies,

Alliant Energy and the Richland, Oakdale and Vernon Electric Cooperatives in Wisconsin. RSS Brian Richter of the Schneider Region provided great support to

the corporate trainers, as well as the photo!

Four all-day “Basic Rigging Training” sessions were conducted in April for employees in the Joe Schneider Region in Wisconsin. Corporate Safety Trainers Ray Apking, Joe Kern and Sean Graziano taught 58 employees how to safely use the 5-to-1 rigging kit. Here are group photos from each day’s training session:

t April 18 in Milwaukee: Crews of Supervisor Jesse Long, working on the property of We Energies

u In the Mike Wolford Region, whenever a crew goes through a successful DOT

roadside inspection (no violations or warnings issued), the driver receives a $50

gift card and any passengers receive a $25 gift card. General Foreperson Donald Nelson (L) had the pleasure of presenting

the gift cards to Foreperson Andrew Quick (driver, center) and Journeyman Charles Vance (passenger, R) for earning a clean

DOT inspection on June 6. These folks all work on the property of Mon Power and

are based out of the Fairlea, West Virginia service center. In addition, their names will be entered into the Wolford Region’s annual drawing for a new pair of boots at the end of the year.

t On June 23, Asplundh Construction General Foreperson Todd Sommer (R) of the Ted Fiala Region in Maryland gave a handshake of appreciation to Mechanic Adam

Teague (L) as he presented him with a Quarterly Safety Award. Adam works in Asplundh Construction’s gas operations on the property of Baltimore Gas & Electric. He was recognized for his exceptional safety leadership and observed safe work practices.


WITH TRAINING AND PRACTICE

u Approximately 70 employees of the Joe Schneider Region, working under Supervisor Bob Kubacki, participated in a Safety Day co-sponsored by Asplundh and American Transmission Company (ATC) on May 25. Held at the Langlade County Fairgrounds in Antigo, Wisconsin, the agenda started with a presentation on the risk posed by complacency. The rest of the day was spent in small group training sessions that rotated through six stations: chain saw safety

by Corporate Safety Trainer Sean Graziano (shown at R); tree felling by Corporate Safety Trainer Ray Apking; human performance by Corporate Safety Consultant Zack

Matulevich; job briefing by RSS Brian Richter; DOT inspection by Compliance Specialist Kelly Graham; and climbing gear inspection by General Forepersons Luke Begovac and

Gary Thom. It was a perfect day to focus on SafeProduction ®!

t The very first Regional Safety Superintendent (RSS) Academy was held on April 11-13 at the Willow Grove Home Office. All RSSs, new and old, are expected to attend one of the programs to be held twice a year. Corporate Safety Training Manager Tracy Hawks led the sessions, assisted by members of the Corporate Safety Training Team. Topics included OSHA 1910.269, human performance, ANSI Z133 Standard, supervisory training from the National Safety Council and other opportunities for professional development and continuing education. Pictured here are the participants, starting with the front row (L to R): William Webster,

Joe Scarpato, Don Elwood, Chris Hall, Adam Crookshank, Jose Irizarry and Ray Apking. In the second row (L to R) are: Ronnie McGinnis, Gary Shaffer, John McLamb, Noah Barker, Scott MacAskill, Sammy Roy, Gregory Hallstein and Stephen Iachetta. In the third row (L to R) are: Adam Martin, Dennis McGinn, Mike Venezia, Robert Forstburg, Rommel Santiago, Michael Seward, William Walk and James Eastridge. In the back row (L to R) are: Tracy Hawks, Chuck Combs, Chris Setlock, Billy Higgins, Todd Martinchek, Charlie Clouse and Neil Volwieder.

IN THE SERVICE OF COMMUNITY TREESA rbor Day is a wonderful

opportunity for Asplundh employees and their utility

partners to plant and care for community trees. Most importantly, Arbor Day is about teaching the younger generation about the value and importance of trees to humans, animals and our environment.

t The Penn-Del ISA Chapter held two Arbor Day of Service events this past spring in which Asplundh crews participated. The first one was held on March 31 at Homewood Cemetery and Arboretum in Pittsburgh, with General Foreperson Chris Gosney and Crew Leaders Christian Bardonner and Scott Omasta of the Mark Lohse Region donating their skills for the betterment of the trees. They work on the property of Dusquesne Light. The photo here is from the second event which took place on April 28 at Lincoln Park in York, Pennsylvania. On hand to prune and remove high-risk trees were Foreperson Randy Gladfelter (in the bucket), Journeyman Curtis Shifflett and Groundperson Devin Kline (hauling brush) of the Ryan Swier Region, who work on the property of FirstEnergy / Met-Ed. Joining them in the event

were General Foreperson Ned Landis and Forepersons Jeff Cool, Buddy Hollingshead and Denny Little from the Nick Valentine Region, who work on the property of Adams Electric Cooperative.

p The fourth graders at Sgt. Bluff-Luton Elementary School in Iowa listened intently as General Foreperson David Ensley of the Joe Sterbenz Region spoke to them about the history of Arbor Day and its founder J. Sterling Morton. Then they went outside to see and learn how to properly plant a tree.

t After the classroom presentation, Asplundh Foreperson Victor Fuentes and Trimmer Austin Reilly, along with MidAmerican Energy District Forester Jason Waugh, provided a hands-on experience in properly planting a tree (Bradford pear) to a few Sgt. Bluff-Luton fourth graders, as the others observed.

New Hampshire Electric Cooperative (NHEC), based in the town of Plymouth in

the center of this beautiful New England state, serves about 84,000 members living along approximately 5,500 miles of power line. With nine NHEC districts located throughout the state, the utility’s power lines travel through 115 towns and cities from the coastal plains to the densely forested White Mountains. Asplundh crews from the Paul Arno Region have been helping NHEC with vegetation management on their rights-of-way for 18 years.

NHEC’s Vegetation Management Supervisor Beth Stewart leads a group of three utility arborists and a vegetation management specialist to plan, oversee and audit the pruning, tree removals and mowing performed by Asplundh. Depending on the time of year, the crew count ranges from 12 to 25 and they are well equipped with standard and 60-70 elevator lift trucks, heavy-duty tracked flail mowers, and skidder buckets with working heights ranging from 55 to 70 feet tall. The crews are assigned to various districts throughout the state, but the majority of work is in the mountainous and sparsely populated northern half.

In describing NHEC’s vegetation management program, Utility Arborist Scott Carlson recently explained, “Our work plan is much more circuit based than before. We are about three-and-a-half years into a five-year plan to get all three-phase and larger distribution lines cleared and onto a five-year cycle.”

Achieving this goal can be a challenge due to the very high percentage of forested land throughout the state of New Hampshire. In addition, extreme weather such as the microburst this past spring, or heavy snow and ice, can slow the work pace. Lending Asplundh crews for storm work elsewhere, like the four crews that NHEC recently sent to help clean up after Hurricane Irma, also increases the need for efficiency and productivity.

“We don’t mind loaning some crews now and then because Asplundh has


CO-OPCORNER

t A typical scene of daily work on the NHEC system, an Arno Region bucket crew prunes limbs and removes trees that threaten the reliability of the power lines. With New Hampshire’s extremely high percentage of forested land and low population density, especially in the upper northern portion, Asplundh crews spend much of their time working along densely wooded rural roads like this one.

u New Hampshire is known as the Granite State and with rights-of-way that feature random boulders and rock outcroppings, a rugged skidder bucket like this one is crucial for Asplundh crews

to maintain efficiency, productivity and safety. No matter what the weather or season is, skidder

bucket crews can be found clearing overhang and mitigating off right-of-way trees that might fall into

NHEC’s conductors.

u Gathering recently for a group photo outside the New Hampshire Electric

Cooperative office in Plymouth were (L to R) Manager of Operations Dan Cornelissen, Utility Arborist Scott Carlson,

Vegetation Management Supervisor Beth Stewart, Asplundh Manager Paul Arno and Utility Arborist

Glenn Sutherland. Unavailable for the photo at the time were Utility Arborist Scott Knapp and Vegetation / Right-of-Way

Specialist Denise Kelly. This team works together to oversee Asplundh’s crews who are helping to get the cooperative’s main feeders on a five-year vegetation management cycle.

always been able to get us extra crews when there’s a storm,” said Scott. “But equally important and impressive as storm response is the daily work done by our local crews. I respect them for always having the members’ best interest at heart and I appreciate that tremendously.”

Asplundh Manager Paul Arno, speaking on behalf of the dozens of Asplundh

employees who work on the NHEC system, commented, “There’s a real personal touch in our relationship with New Hampshire Electric members and staff. Line clearance work is hard, but we feel appreciated and that makes it all worthwhile.”

MANAGEMENTUPDATE


NEWMANAGERSINTHEHOMEOFFICEANDFIELD

Ed Bradshaw, manager of Asplundh operations in parts of Kansas, Missouri and Colorado, was elected vice president in April. Executive Vice President Brent Asplundh sponsors the Bradshaw Region.

Ed started out on a tree crew in 1985 in Kansas and by 1991, he was promoted to general foreperson. He spent the next 15 months

working for Asplundh in New Zealand and Australia, returning to Kansas in 1992. Two years later, Ed advanced to supervisor. In 2014, he was promoted to manager and is currently responsible for Asplundh operations on the properties of Kansas City Power & Light, Westar Energy, Black Hills Energy, Kansas City Board of Public Utilities, Independence Power & Light and various municipal, cooperative and pipeline accounts. An ISA Certified Arborist, Ed has received corporate recognition for safety, controlling costs, leadership and storm response.

Rod LeBeau, region director of Utility Lines Construction Services (ULCS) operations in parts of Michigan, Iowa, Wisconsin and Minnesota, was elected vice president in April. UtiliCon Solutions’ Senior Vice President Greg Holman sponsors the LeBeau Region of ULCS.

With 13 years of prior electrical testing experience, Rod came to work for ULCS in his

home state of Michigan in 2003 as a relay technician. By 2006, he had advanced to general foreperson and later assumed responsibilities as an operations manager. In 2012, Rod was promoted to region director for two ULCS regions, plus a warehouse operation. He oversees the subsidiary’s operations on the properties of ITC and Alliant Energy in the states mentioned above. Rod studied engineering technology at Macomb Community College in Michigan and has received corporate recognition for safety and leadership.

Michelle Bartie joined the Home Office team in Willow Grove in November 2016 as an assistant manager of the Human Resources (HR) Benefits Department. She was promoted to manager of the department in July. Michelle reports to the Manager of Corporate Administration Greg Staton under Chief Administrative Officer George Licci.

Michelle brings to Asplundh over 20 years of HR experience. She has managed the benefit programs for manufacturing, technology and financial organizations. Currently, Michelle manages the company’s health and welfare, as well as retirement programs, disability, leave, and union administration. She holds a bachelor’s degree in business management with a minor in business law from Pennsylvania State University and achieved the Certified Employee Benefits Specialist ® designation.

Scott Harmon, manager of Asplundh operations in parts of Missouri and Kansas, was elected vice president in April. His region is sponsored by Executive Vice President Brent Asplundh.

Scott joined an Asplundh tree crew in his native state of Missouri in 1998 with five years of prior experience in city park supervision

and maintenance. By 2000 he had advanced to general foreperson and two years later, he was promoted to supervisor. In 2010, Scott was given branch manager responsibilities and three years later, he advanced to manager overseeing Asplundh operations on the properties of cooperative, municipal and pipeline accounts in parts of Missouri and Kansas. An ISA Certified Arborist, Scott holds a degree in outdoor education from Missouri State University and has been recognized by the company for safety, cost control and storm response.

Steve Lowe, manager of American Lighting and Signalization (ALS) operations that serve utilities, was elected vice president in April. He reports to Senior Vice President James Hardiman and Sponsor Phil Voltz.

Steve started his full-time career with Asplundh in 1979, working on various tree, spray and street lighting crews in his native state of Indiana.

By 1982, he had advanced to general foreperson and four years later, he was promoted to supervisor in Corporate Safety. In 1991, Steve transferred to Asplundh’s Street Lighting Division, which became ALS in 2003. He was promoted to ALS region manager in 2011, responsible for overseeing street lighting and secondary line work for utilities throughout the Northeast, South and Midwest. A Project Management Professional ®, he holds a bachelor’s degree in business management and a master’s of business administration from Indiana Wesleyan University.

Steve Blum, former superintendent in the western portion of Washington State, advanced to manager there in July. He reports to Sponsor Shawn Shapiro.

Steve joined an Asplundh tree crew in 1997 in his home state of Washington and by 2006, he was promoted to general foreperson. Ten years later, Steve advanced to superintendent

under then Manager Shawn Shapiro. Now, as a manager, he is responsible for overseeing Asplundh crews working on the properties of Puget Sound Energy and various public power accounts in western Washington. An ISA Certified Arborist, he also holds an associate’s degree in landscape management / construction from Clover Park Technical College in Washington. Steve graduated from the Asplundh Management Leadership Academy in August.

NEWVICEPRESIDENTSELECTED


Eric Thigpen, former operations director for Rotor Blade, was promoted in June to general manager of the helicopter services company based in Georgetown, South Carolina. He reports directly to Sponsor Phil Voltz.

Eric joined the company in 2014 with 27 years of experience in electric utility line construction, maintenance and aerial inspection services

in the eastern Carolinas. A private fixed-wing pilot and Certified Occupational Safety Specialist, he has also studied business at the University of North Carolina in Pembroke. Using this background, Eric is responsible for managing all of Rotor Blade’s aerial sawing and inspection operations in the U.S. and Canada. He is a member of the Helicopter Association International Utilities Patrol and Construction Committee.

Kris Keefer, former supervisor in northern Ohio and western Pennsylvania, advanced to manager there in April and was given added responsibility for a new region in Michigan in July. His regions are sponsored by Executive Vice President Gregg Asplundh and Shawn Shapiro.

Kris joined an Asplundh tree crew in his home state of Ohio in 2005 after serving three

years in the U.S. Marine Corps. By January 2011, he had advanced to general foreperson and two years later, Kris was promoted to supervisor. His responsibilities include overseeing Asplundh operations on the properties of four FirstEnergy companies in northern Ohio and western Pennsylvania, DTE Energy and ITC in eastern Michigan, and various cooperative and municipal accounts. Kris studied computer networking at the Akron Institute and is a 2012 graduate of the Asplundh General Foreperson Training Program.

Cheryl Trago, former supervisor of the Human Resources (HR) Benefits Department in the Willow Grove Home Office, advanced to manager of the new HR Systems Maintenance Department. She reports to the Manager of Corporate Administration Greg Staton under Chief Administration Officer George Licci.

Cheryl first joined the Home Office staff in 1994 to work in the Input Billing Department. She transferred into HR Benefits in 1995 and ten years later, she took a position as a computer specialist. In 2012, Cheryl was promoted to supervisor, overseeing vacation and unemployment functions. Her in-depth understanding of the corporation’s software systems that interface with HR functions led to the creation of the new department in July. Cheryl is now responsible for overseeing a ten-person team who focuses on accurately maintaining employee job records.

Susan LaBar joined the Home Office staff in Willow Grove in March as claims manager for the Risk Management Department. She reports to Vice President Dennis Stapola under Chief Administration Officer George Licci.

Susan brings to Asplundh over 20 years of experience in claims management, as well as a bachelor’s degree in communications from

Westminster College and a paralegal degree from the Philadelphia Institute, both in Pennsylvania. She specializes in liability and workers’ compensation claims and is responsible for overseeing the department’s internal claims examiners, as well as third party administrators, to ensure effective claims resolution. Susan is a member of the Claims and Litigation Management Alliance, the Risk and Insurance Management Society and the Greater Philadelphia Executive Claims Council.

Pat Pinelli, former acting manager in southeastern Pennsylvania, advanced to manager there in June. The Pinelli Region is sponsored by Senior Vice President Larry Moore.

Pat started out on an Asplundh tree crew in his native state of Pennsylvania in 1979 and he was promoted to general foreperson in 1991. Eight years later, Pat was promoted to supervisor,

overseeing crews on the property of ComEd in Illinois. He returned to Pennsylvania in 2003, at first in the western part of the state, but he transferred back to his origins in southeastern Pennsylvania in 2005. In February, Pat was named acting manager and now, as the region manager, he is responsible for overseeing all Asplundh tree crews working on the properties of PECO and PennDOT, as well as various municipal and commercial accounts in the greater Philadelphia region. He is an ISA Certified Arborist / Utility Specialist.

Jon-Paul Paulsen, former supervisor in Montana, Idaho, Wyoming, Alaska and eastern Washington, was promoted in July to manager of a newly-formed region that covers those states. He reports to Sponsor Shawn Shapiro.

Jon-Paul first joined an Asplundh tree crew in 1993 in Montana and by 1998, he qualified to compete in the International Tree Climbing

Championship. In 2009, Jon-Paul was promoted to general foreperson, working in Montana, Idaho and Washington. He advanced to supervisor in October 2016 and his manager responsibilities now include overseeing Asplundh crews on the properties of various investor-owned and cooperative utilities in Montana, Idaho, Wyoming, Alaska and the eastern portion of Washington. Jon-Paul is an ISA Certified Arborist and holds extensive credentials for climber training. He recently participated in Asplundh’s Management Leadership Academy.

NEWMANAGERSINTHEHOMEOFFICEANDFIELD


NEWSUPERVISORSINTHEFIELDDustin Parsons, former general foreperson, advanced to supervisor under Manager Kris Keefer in parts of northern Ohio and western Pennsylvania in April. The Keefer Region is sponsored by Executive Vice President Gregg Asplundh.

Dustin first joined an Asplundh tree crew in Ohio in 2004, but two years later, he left to

serve in the U.S. Air Force where he earned the Air Force Combat Action Medal. He returned to Asplundh in Ohio in 2010 and four years later, was promoted to general foreperson. As a supervisor, Dustin is responsible for overseeing Asplundh crews working for three FirstEnergy companies in northern Ohio and western Pennsylvania, as well as two municipal accounts. He earned a bachelor’s degree in environmental management from Columbia Southern University in Alabama and is an ISA Certified Arborist / Utility Specialist.

Josh Emory, former general foreperson in the western Carolinas, was promoted to supervisor in the Barry Suddreth Region in February. Executive Vice President Gregg Asplundh sponsors the Suddreth Region.

Josh came to work on an Asplundh tree crew in his home state of North Carolina in 2009 after selling his brick masonry business of nine years.

He worked up through equipment operator, foreperson and work planner to become a general foreperson in 2011. Josh’s supervisory responsibilities include overseeing Asplundh distribution tree crews working on the Duke Energy system in the Spartanburg / Anderson region of South Carolina. He is a July 2012 graduate of the Asplundh General Foreperson Training Program and has served six years on the Suddreth Region’s Safety Committee.

Peter Powers, Jr., former general foreperson in New Hampshire, was promoted to supervisor there in March under Manager Paul Arno. Executive Vice President Matt Asplundh sponsors the Arno Region.

Peter came to work on an Asplundh tree crew in New Hampshire in 2005 after having served four years active duty in the U.S. Army where

he earned a Bronze Star for his combat medic work in Iraq. In 2007, he advanced to general foreperson while continuing to serve in the U.S. Army Reserve. Peter’s supervisory responsibilities now include overseeing Asplundh crews working on the properties of Eversource Energy, Unitil, New Hampshire Electric Cooperative and various telecommunications accounts. He earned an associate’s degree in criminal justice from NHTI in Concord, New Hampshire and is an August 2007 graduate of the Asplundh Supervisory Training Program.

William ‘Shane’ Hall, former general foreperson in the western Carolinas, advanced to supervisor in the Barry Suddreth Region in May. The Suddreth Region is sponsored by Executive Vice President Gregg Asplundh.

Born and raised in North Carolina, Shane first joined an Asplundh tree crew there in 2004. Within six years he was promoted to general

foreperson overseeing crews working on the properties of Duke Energy and various rural electric cooperatives in North and South Carolina. Now, as a supervisor, Shane is responsible for overseeing Asplundh crews working on the systems of various municipal ‘Electricities’, North State Communications and Duke Energy in the Greensboro and Raleigh / Durham regions. He is a July 2011 graduate of the Asplundh General Foreperson Training Program.

Billy Higgins, former regional safety superintendent (RSS) in southeastern Virginia and a portion of North Carolina, was promoted to supervisor in May under Manager David Simmons. Executive Vice President Gregg Asplundh sponsors the Simmons Region.

Billy came to work on a company tree crew in his native state of Virginia in 1997 and by 2006,

he had advanced to general foreperson. He was promoted to RSS four years later. Billy’s supervisory responsibilities now include overseeing Asplundh crews working on the properties of Dominion Energy in southeastern Virginia and a portion of North Carolina, as well as Northern Neck Electric Cooperative. He is a Certified Tree Safety Professional and first aid / CPR instructor / trainer, as well as a July 2009 graduate of the Asplundh Supervisory Training Program.

Logan Sawyers, former superintendent, advanced to supervisor in May for the Larry Kirk Region in Virginia and West Virginia. Executive Vice President Chris Asplundh, Jr. sponsors the Kirk Region.

With two years of prior tree service experience, Logan joined an Asplundh tree crew in 2001 in his home state of Virginia. He was promoted

to general foreperson six years later and in 2014, he advanced to superintendent. Now, as a supervisor, Logan is responsible for overseeing Asplundh crews working on the property of Appalachian Power Co. in Virginia and West Virginia. An April 2010 graduate of the Asplundh Supervisory Training Program, he also holds a Virginia pesticide applicator’s license.

From a letter to Idaho Power regarding Jon-Paul Paulsen Region Forepersons Tony Johnson, Layne Reeves and Roger Scott, Trimmer Roy Everhart and Apprentice Clayton Pratt:

“I wanted to send a note ... for the great job you did on removing my trees in the power lines. [Idaho Power Utility Arborist]Bob Thielges came out and checked on the work before the crew arrived and during the job. ... He performed great customer service and delivered as promised. The Asplundh crew did an amazing job. They were professional and even raked the sawdust up. What skill they have! I am very thankful.”

Sharon Vawtet

From an e-mail to the Home Office in Willow Grove, Pennsylvania about the line clearance work of General Foreperson Charles Gill and crews for Xcel Energy in Minnesota:

“After the recent thunderstorms, we still have power. This wasn’t always so. It would fail all the time, and because we are two houses in a densely forested area on a dead-end spur, we were always the last to get fixed. ... We used to lose power if too many butterflies flew too close. If it got too hot or cold. Windy or calm. If the sun rose or if it set, and the moon got full. I think you get my point. ... Kudos to you and your company.”

Alec Wilson

ARKANSASGeneral Foreperson Shawn Bearden, for giving a stranded truck-driving couple rides back and forth to the gas station after their tractor-trailer ran out of gas near the Hardy area,Entergy Arkansas

Francisco Jaimes and Pablo Martinez, and Groundperson Luis Roman,Entergy Arkansas

Lenard Sproling and Trimmer James Travis, Jr.,Jonesboro City Water & Light

Ronnie Wells and Crew,First Electric Cooperative

COLORADOGeneral Foreperson Travis Ashe, Forepersons Mathew Kurr and Sheldon Rider, and Trimmer Randy Cox,Delta-Montrose Electric Assn.

Jose Carrera and Crew,Xcel Energy

General Foreperson David Taylor, Forepersons Ryan Frost, Matthew Puckett and Jose Reyes, and Crews,Magellan Pipelines

CONNECTICUTWork Planner Bill Fraley, for his professional demeanor while explaining upcoming line

clearance work to a homeowner in the Coventry area in July,Eversource Energy

Adam Wambolt and Trimmer Chris Nadeau,Town of Fairfield

IDAHOTony Johnson, Layne Reeves and Roger Scott, Trimmer Roy Everhart and Apprentice Clayton Pratt,Idaho Power

ILLINOISPopiel Battin and Trimmer Cody Battin,MidAmerican Energy

IOWANathan Johnson and Trimmer Jason Coleman,MidAmerican Energy

Supervisor Scott Richter, for volunteering to support Alliant Energy’s bike ride fund-raiser for lymphoma research in May,Alliant Energy

General Foreperson Dan Roberson, Foreperson Popiel Battin and Trimmers Cody Battin and Nick Roberts,MidAmerican Energy (two letters were received)

General Foreperson Dan Roberson, Forepersons

Donald Muller and Chad Speidel, and Trimmer Ryan Lucas,MidAmerican Energy

LOUISIANARoyce Brown and Marvin Zirlott, and Trimmers Jeremiah Henning and Michael McNeil,SWEPCO

MARYLANDULCS District Area Manager Darrell Clifton, General Foreperson Jeremy Moore and Crew, Delmarva Power

MICHIGANAsplundh Construction Forepersons Ryan Green, Paul Schlack and Don Stone, Journeyman Lineworkers Roger Buksar, Jeff Cook, Brad Holdorf, Tim Stutterheim and Craig Wade, and Apprentices Chris Barnard, Troy Dominique, Chris Hampton and Steve Westrick, for volunteering their time on a Friday evening in April to remove downed trees from the yard of a family in need in the Dexter area,DTE Energy (two letters were received)

General Foreperson Amilcar Lopez, Sr., Assistant General Foreperson Anthony Sandoval, Forepersons Andy Carias and Matthew Lopez, Journeymen Alvaro Lopez, Amilcar Lopez, Roberto Ramirez, and Hilario Rodriguez, and Groundpersons Eduardo Reyes-Silva and Johnny Velasquez,Consumers Energy (two letters were received)

Robert Navarre and Trimmers Justin Harroun, Will Jackson and Joe Marra,DTE Energy

MINNESOTAGeneral Foreperson Charles Gill, Forepersons Scott Benz and Ryan West, and Trimmers Eric Arndt and Andrew Prescott,Xcel Energy

NEBRASKAJason Strahan, Trimmers Colin Anderson and Gabriel Haecker and Journeyman Eric Moore,Lincoln Electric System

General Foreperson David Sweeney, Foreperson Matthew Stockton and Groundperson Tommy Wickerd,Lincoln Electric System


OrchidsLetters and telephone calls were received complimenting the following forepersons and their crews working on the property of the utility or organization listed below the employees’ names. This listing covers all Orchids that were received in the Corporate Communications Department between April 11 and July 26, 2017. For their outstanding job performance or special volunteer efforts, we say ...

Thank you and congratulations!

Orchids – April 11 through July 26, 2017

From an e-mail to Manager Paul Arno concerning the potentially life-saving actions of Foreperson Sidney Howlett in New Hampshire:

“... Sidney noticed a woman using an aluminum ladder and metal pruning tools to attempt to trim a maple ... which had grown into 2.4 kV primary line. [He] approached the woman and advised her of the dangers of attempting that work. His obvious concern impressed her enough that she agreed to let him do the trimming. ...The tree was trimmed nearly to full specification, while creating a happy customer and avoiding a serious and potentially fatal public accident.”

David Crane, Regional Arborist, Eversource Energy

From a letter to PPL Utilities about the work of Don Redden Region crews in the Allentown, Pennsylvania area:

“Recently, you dispatched Asplundh to do tree work at our home. ... We just wanted to say thanks to you, [General Foreperson] Elwood Hess and crew for the fine work performed at our property. In addition to being amazing to watch, the Asplundh crew was always professional, safety conscious and courteous. ... As you are probably aware, finding good reliable contractors these days can be difficult. ... Elwood and his crew set the standard for quality service.”

Mike and Lois Ring

NEW HAMPSHIREJamie Dexter, Billy McKinstry and Joel Treamer, and Trimmer Jake Cutter,Unitil

Sidney Howlett, for using his safety and customer service skills to convince a homeowner to stop using a metal ladder and tools near the power lines and allow him to safely conduct the utility line clearance work,Eversource Energy

Briana Sheptor and Vincent Smith, and Groundpersons Jeremy Foote, Nathan Wajda and Stefan Watts,Eversource Energy

NEW JERSEYCrew Leaders Steve Brown and Tim Greene, and Trimmers Jeff Kosden and Eric Norton,Atlantic City Electric

NEW YORKAsplundh Construction Foreperson William Horan and Journeyman Lineworkers Vic D’Amato and Don Floyd, PSEG Long Island

Asplundh Construction Foreperson Kenny Lapennaand Crew,PSEG Long Island

General Foreperson Jon Swain, Foreperson Adam Briggs and Trimmer Dustin Kiel,NYSEG

NORTH CAROLINADerek Anderson, Christopher Baxley, Bradley Glasscoe, Matthew Hoosier, Brandon Kellison, Steven Proffit and Michael Russell, and Journeyman Jesse Hardin,Duke Energy

Kevin Boyd, Michael Brown, James Kearns, William Simmons and Charles Wagner, Apprentices Christopher Brooks and Robert Ladd, Equipment Operator Brandon Tessier and Groundperson Sam Fisher,Duke Energy

General Foreperson William Dooley, Work Planner Kenny Locklear, Foreperson Willie Locklear and Groundpersons James Hunt, Adrian Jacobs, Jason Locklear, Raymond Locklear and Jeremiah Maynor, Duke Energy

General Foreperson Kenneth Duncan and Crew,Duke Energy

ULCS Supervisor Avery Hammond, for going above and beyond on various underground construction projects throughout the year,Duke Energy

ULCS General Forepersons Daniel Mahan and Joe Ross, Forepersons Thomas Edwards, Scott Lingle and Jacob Tucker, and Crews,Duke Energy

General Foreperson Shane Miller, Work Planner James Dickson and Crew, for following proper safety protocol and becoming the first supplier to submit a self-reported PIR Drop/Fell Zone Deficiency following a near-miss while performing line clearance work,Duke Energy

Work Planner Gary Price, Forepersons Alex Lockhart, Samuel Macias and Samuel Romero, Trimmer Israel Magana and Apprentice Gonzalo Romero,Duke Energy Progress

Work Planner Michael Silver, Forepersons Danny Holman and Doug Sides, Trimmer Austin Haley and Apprentice Danny Sheppard,Duke Energy

William Stafford and Crew,Duke Energy

Michael Stowe and Groundperson Adam Williams,Duke Energy

General Foreperson John Sullivan and Crew,Duke Energy Progress

OHIOGeneral Foreperson Jason McMahan, Foreperson Greg Parkinson and Trimmers Martin Alvarez, Brent Hamilton and Devon Idleman,AEP Ohio

Mickey Rosser and Trimmer Adam Upton,AEP Ohio

ONTARIOAsplundh Canada General Foreperson Charles Bergeron and Crew Members and Nicholas Ashby and Caitlynd Emon, for their help restoring the wooded areas of Christie Lake Camp, a facility that’s dedicated to helping underprivileged youth in the Ottawa area,Hydro Ottawa

PENNSYLVANIATrimmers Joe Belzile, David Chico and Lorenzo Delgado,PECO

Estanislao Diaz and Trimmers Henry Diaz, Adriel Echevarria and Dennis Gonzalez,PECO

General Foreperson Elwood Hess, Work Planner Doug Hess, Forepersons Ron Fronheiser, Mick Thompson and Angel Velazquez, Trimmer Leonardo Flores and Journeyman David McShaw,PPL Utilities

General Foreperson Tom Hill and Crew,West Penn Power

General Foreperson Dave Jones, Forepersons Gregorio Chala, James Morgan, Oscar Penate and Rafael Rivera, and Trimmers Domingo


Orchids – April 11 through July 26, 2017

From an e-mail to Supervisor Sean MacPhee from the Ralph Guadagno Region about the work of General Foreperson Mike North, Foreperson Chris Stone and Trimmer Kevin Olander for Green Mountain Power:

“Last week, we met with Chris and Mike on our private road in Vermont to discuss the tree cutting that needed to happen. ... [They] walked the road with us, listened to us, explained what they could do and couldn’t do, and were both very respectful in our conversations. ... I did not meet Kevin, but I know he was a part of the good work done on our road. ... They are nice folks and we felt good about them being on our land.”

Jan Ameen and Catherine Audette

From an e-mail to Manager David Fulford regarding General Foreperson Rex Hilton and Anthony Martinez, and crews while on storm restoration duty for Colorado Springs Utilities (CSU) in April:

“... On behalf of CSU, I want to express our appreciation and gratitude for the outstanding support Asplundh provided to CSU and our customers in response to the recent spring snow storm. Your crews handled over 560 tree-in-line orders in five days, working 16-hour days to keep the lights on for our customers. ... Everyone worked safely and productively, and provided our customers with great service.”

Phil Helvie, Operations Supervisor, Colorado Springs Utilities

Dominguez, Jordan Salinas and Christopher Thomson,PECO

Asplundh Construction General Foreperson David Kappel, Foreperson Ricardo Garcia and Journeyman Lineworkers Luis Gonzalez, John Thompson and Ed Yakubies, for their polite, professional and efficient service restoring power in the pouring rain,Penelec

Supervisor Rick Sankolewicz, Foreperson Steve Grabowski and Trimmer Robert Williams,PECO

Work Screener Kyle Wentz and Trimmer Jessica Lopez,PECO

SOUTH CAROLINAForester Austin Morris, Forepersons Austin Kellam and Chad Shivers, Trimmers Jesse Craigo, Roger Hamby, Patrick Hamilton and Dwight Vaughn,Duke Energy

TEXASGeneral Foreperson Richard Bennett and Crew,Austin Energy

Arnaldo Munoz and Trimmers Samuel Bell and Javier Ramos,Austin Energy

VERMONTAnthony Collard and David Nicholas,Green Mountain Power

Josiah Milardo and Dwight Perry,Green Mountain Power

General Foreperson Mike North, Foreperson Chris Stone and Groundperson Kevin Olander,Green Mountain Power

Ian Weaver and Crew,Green Mountain Power

WASHINGTONSione Ngauamo, Trimmer John Eiseman and Apprentice Kevin Chapman,Clark Public Utilities

Manager Jon-Paul Paulsen, Regional Safety Trainer James Cheatham, General Forepersons Travis Bottcher and Casey Rendall, and Foreperson Chad O’Riley, for presenting safety training to their coworkers and employees from Avista Utilities on April 27,Avista Utilities

General Foreperson Casey Rendall, Foreperson Chris Osberg and Apprentices Charles Norris and Leonard Woolsey,Avista Utilities

WEST VIRGINIAWork Planner Roger Davis, Trimmer Paul Bean and

Journeyman Max Kimball,MonPower

Roger Hammond and Rick Spence, Trimmer Leslie Isaacs, Apprentices Kevin Maynard and Jesse Pack, and Groundperson Marshall Stephens,Appalachian Power Co.

STORM WORKMarch 2017

Asplundh Construction Forepersons Ryan Green, Paul Schlack and Don Stone, Journeyman Lineworkers Roger Buksar, Jeff Cook, Brad Holdorf, Tim Stutterheim and Craig Wade, and Apprentices Chris Barnard, Troy Dominique, Chris Hampton and Steve Westrick, for their dedication, hard work and skill during the storm restoration work following a March 8 wind storm that knocked out power to 800,000 customers,DTE Energy (MI)

April 2017

General Forepersons Rex Hilton and Anthony Martinez, Work Planners Dave Ausra and Phil Hardgrove, Forepersons Cesar Alvarado, Dylan Castello, Mario Delira, Cody Gallagher, Pedro Lucas, Simon Marcos and Jordan Matthews, and

Trimmers Patrick Baty, Lucas Francis, Pedro Francisco, Mario Gonzales, Evan Greer, Tomas Juan, Mario Nicolas, Andrew Ratekin and Will Schaar, for their quick response and outstanding support during the early April snow storm response in Colorado Springs,Colorado Springs Utilities (CO)

May 2017

Supervisor Chad Rucker, General Forepersons Travis Ashe, Roy Gomez and Shaun Rapp, Forepersons William Garcia and Mathew Kurr, and Crews, for their assistance handling the many tree-related work orders that popped up following a late May snow and wind storm,Delta-Montrose Electric Association (CO)

Asplundh Construction General Foreperson Chad Van Camp and Crew (IL), for helping with the power restoration efforts in the Towanda area following severe thunderstorms on May 1,Penelec (PA)

June 2017

Karen Davtyan and Trimmers Chad Nelson and Sergey Selyukov, for their fantastic work handling a large storm restoration job following a hailstorm on June 13 in the Newport area,Xcel Energy (MN)



CREWS & NEWS

TRAININGTIMES

p April UGFTP—The UtiliCon General Foreperson Training Program was held on April 3-7 at the Home Office in Willow Grove, Pennsylvania. Led by Field Personnel Manager Pete Kwasnjuk, the graduates were (front row, L to R): Brian Hartsfield, AC, Michigan; Doug Young, GOS, New Jersey; Ricardo Lopez, AC, California; Shawn Boling, ULCS, North Carolina; James Levesque, GOS, Georgia; and Wally Wallstead, AC, California. Standing in the back row were (L to R): Lee Epperson, ULCS, Alabama; Greg White, GOS, Maryland; Mark Lackner, AC, New York; Eric Warthen, AC, Maryland; Chad VanCamp, AC, Illinois; and John Bolton, III, ULCS, North Carolina.

p May GFTP— Field Personnel Manager Pete Kwasnjuk led the next General Foreperson Training Program on May 8-12. Held at the Home Office in Willow Grove, Pennsylvania, the attendees were (back row, L to R): William Portal, Delaware; Luke Begovac, Michigan; Steve Ross, Ohio; Mike Marcus, Vermont; Ryan Joy, Ohio; and Gary Thom, Wisconsin. In the middle row were (L to R): Jose “Alex” Machuca, Illinois; Josh Payne, Florida; Gabriel Guerrero, Pennsylvania; David Viers, Ohio; Brian Mounts, New Jersey; and Emilio Zamora, South Carolina. Standing in the front row were (L to R): James Dodson, Indiana; Jason Frey, Minnesota; James Roessler, North Carolina; Donnie Strader, North Carolina; Chuck Kemplin, Michigan; and Bryan Morales, West Virginia.

t May APDP—HR Personnel Director Sallie Theis held the Administrative Professional Development Program on May 22-26 at the Home Office in Willow Grove, Pennsylvania. The participants were (back row, L to R): Susan Carey, ULCS, Delaware; Janet Holderby, Railroad Division, Ohio; April Griffin, Massachusetts; Alesia Jones, ArborMetrics Solutions, Georgia; Kate Kemp, APL, Tennessee; and Kemi Lay, Pennsylvania. Seated in the front row were (L to R): Aimy Bogan, ULCS, Delaware; Kate Jahnigen, ULCS, Maryland; Susan Lattuca, AC, New York; Donna Weiss, AC, New York; Nickkia Sellers, AC, New York; and Jennifer Ellis, North Carolina.

p July GFTP— Field Personnel Manager Pete Kwasnjuk led a session of the General Foreperson Training Program on July 10-14 in Willow Grove, Pennsylvania. The attendees were (front row, L to R): Gregory Holbrook, Sr., North Carolina; Carlos Ruiz-Garcia, Florida; Lorenza Cuevas, Jr., Mississippi; Damian Gonzalez, South Carolina; James Cincotti, North Carolina; Cuatemoc Cornejo, Illinois; and Rigoberto Huerta, Jr., Mississippi. Standing in the back row were (L to R): Erik Huntelman, New Jersey; Chris Gosney, Pennsylvania; Kenneth Duncan, North Carolina; Kenneth Brown, Florida; Justin Knouf, Pennsylvania; Ed Tobey, Michigan; and Daniel Sandoval, Idaho.

p August GFTP—Another session of the General Foreperson Training Program was held on August 21-25 in Willow Grove, Pennsylvania. Led by Field Personnel Manager Pete Kwasnjuk, the graduates were (back row, L to R): Chad Byrd, Utah; John Westerfer, Pennsylvania; Travis Horn, Pennsylvania; Scott Smith, Pennsylvania; Christopher Ellison, Florida; and Wilton “Cole” Adams, North Carolina. In the middle row were (L to R): Fredy Ventura, Texas; Pearl Banks, Kentucky; Virgilio Garcia, Florida; Paul Dwight, Michigan; Josh Young, Alabama; and Eddy Tinajero, Illinois. Seated in the front row were (L to R): Juan Sanchez, Ohio; Donald Chapman, South Carolina; Chris Wilson, Tennessee; Jose Romero, Texas; and Rogelio Gomez, Colorado.


30-YEARWATCHES

p Foreperson Jeff Stuettgen (second from R, November 1986) received a specially-engraved watch from Vice President Joe Schneider (far L) along with congratulations from Supervisor Jesse Long (second from L) and General Foreperson Tim Guetzke (far R) during a lunch held in honor of his 30 th anniversary. Jeff has worked his entire career on We Energies property in southeastern Wisconsin.

p Forepersons Jay Nelson (second from L, December 1986) and Tom Bauman (second from R, December 1986) were taken out to lunch by Vice President Joe Schneider (far L), Supervisor Jesse Long (center) and General Foreperson Terry Bunkleman (far R) to celebrate their 30 th anniversaries with Asplundh. Each oversee a crew in the Fox Valley area of Wisconsin on We Energies property.

p Vice President / Director of Risk Management Dennis Stapola (second from R, March 1987) received a specially-engraved watch and a handshake of appreciation for 30 years of outstanding service to the corporation from Chairman of the Board / CEO Scott Asplundh (second from L), CFO Joe Dwyer (far R) and Chief Administrative Officer George Licci (far L).

p Foreperson Mark Decker (R, January 1987) received a specially-engraved watch and a handshake of appreciation from Vice President Ed Bradshaw (L) at a steak lunch to mark his 30 years of service with Asplundh. Mark has worked his entire career incident-free, and currently oversees a crew on Kansas City Power & Light property in Missouri.

p Foreperson William Holland (center, May 1987) was recognized for 30 years of service by Vice President / Regional Sponsor Barry Suddreth (L) at a special luncheon in his honor. Also on hand were Randolph EMC (REMC) Line Superintendent Mike Hodges (R), Supervisor Michael Simmons and General Foreperson Gene Parker (not shown). William is a foreperson of a Jarraff crew on REMC property in North Carolina.

p Switchboard Operator Sue Lawfer (L, April 1987), received a handshake of gratitude and a specially-engraved watch from Manager of Customer & Field Liaison Angelo Mattioli (R, now Controller) in recognition of her 30 th anniversary. If you’ve ever called or visited the Home Office, chances are Sue directed your call or greeted you at the reception desk.

p Vice President Keith Erickson (second from L) was joined by Supervisor Wayne Bailey (far R) and General Foreperson Larry Mensing (far L) in congratulating Foreperson Dave VanNatta (second from R, September 1984) for 30 years of loyal service during a crew visit. Dave has worked on Xcel Energy property (then Northern States Power) in Minnesota for his entire career.

p Manager Ed Bradshaw (far R) presented a specially-engraved watch to General Foreperson Kyle Baur (second from R, November 1986) during a steak dinner held in honor of his 30 years of incident-free service to Asplundh. Also on hand to celebrate were Kansas City BPU Supervisor of Vegetation Management Scott Paulsen (far L) and Director of Operations Jeremy Ash (second from L).

p General Foreperson Steve Swartzell (center, November 1986) was recognized by Executive Vice President Brent Asplundh (L) and Manager Stephen Williams (R) for 30 years of dedicated service at his region’s GF meeting last fall. Steve oversees crews who manage vegetation along NIPSCO’s gas pipelines in northern Indiana.


p Schneider Region Supports Forest Fest—On July 29, Supervisor Bob Kubacki and General Foreperson Scott Krusick from the Joe Schneider Region volunteered their time to support the Trees for Tomorrow (TfT) Forest Fest. TfT is a natural resources school in Eagle River, Wisconsin and the yearly Forest Fest is a way for TfT to educate the public about all the products we use and rely upon that come from forest resources. Bob and Scott set-up a 70-foot aerial lift to conduct a high-risk tree removal, demonstrating roping and rigging techniques, boom operation and tree felling. They also set up a split dump and chipper to show how wood debris is disposed of, and turned over some of the wood to another exhibitor for a lumber-making demonstration. Asplundh also sponsored the Lumberjack Breakfast, which is a fund-raiser to help TfT support its educational goals.

p Clean-up For Underprivileged Youth Camp—Asplundh Canada ULC and Hydro Ottawa joined forces on May 10 for a clean-up day at Christie Lake Camp, a facility that uses mentors and outdoor recreational activities to help impoverished youth develop positive mental, physical and social skills. Hydro Ottawa Supervisor of Distribution Operations Rob Cameron teamed up with Desjardins Region volunteers General Foreperson Charles Bergeron and Crew Members Nicholas Ashby and Caitlynd Emon to prune dangerous limbs and remove high-risk trees, making the campground safe for the campers and staff.

COMMUNITYSERVICE

p Teamwork Makes Paulsen Region Start-Up A Success—On January 12, Manager Jon-Paul Paulsen had less than two months to get 23 crews hired, equipped and ready to roll on Idaho Power property. How did it all come together? Through teamwork, of course! Sponsor Shawn Shapiro, Jon-Paul and General Foreperson Cheyenne Hartzell dedicated countless hours to the effort, including numerous informational sessions at job fairs to attract new talent. When it came time to get 23 aerial lifts and chippers, four right-of-way pick-ups, UTVs and GF trucks delivered, the group relied on the expertise of Fleet Services Director John Talbot and Lead Equipment Advisor Debbie Miller, who made it happen without a hitch. The start-up was a success, and the Paulsen Region is now up to 30 crews with Idaho Power.

ONTHEJOB

AWARDS&REWARDS

p Asplundh Recognized By Avista As A Top Contractor—On May 10, Sponsors Shawn Shapiro and Jim Hines (center L and R, respectively) were pleased to accept Avista’s top contractor award from President Dennis Vermillion (far R) and Vice President of Energy Delivery Heather Rosentrater (far L). Asplundh tied for the first place spot with a construction contractor after Avista’s extensive review of their field and office operations for a variety of factors, including safety, quality and service, cost savings and value, and innovation. After the presentation, Shawn and Jim took the plaque out to some of the Jon-Paul Paulsen Region crews working on Avista property, sharing the success and thanking them for representing Asplundh so well.

t Alliant Energy Spotlights Sterbenz Region Employee For Years Of Service—On July 19, Alliant Energy held their annual safety and training day for Joe Sterbenz Region employees working on their property in Wisconsin and Iowa. Alliant Energy Manager of Line Clearance and Inspection Dan Green took the opportunity to recognize the Asplundh employee with the most amount of years of service on Alliant property. The winner is Foreperson Tim Stobbs (second from R), who has worked on Alliant property for a total of 37 years, 19 of those with Asplundh. Dan (far R) was joined by (L to R) Superintendent Mike Friese and Executive Vice President Gregg Asplundh in congratulating Tim for his longevity and dedication.

FAMILYALBUM

t Gunner Prosser, 3, looks like he is practicing with his toy chain saw for a future career in arboriculture. It’s not much of a surprise as his grandfather, Paul Prosser, works for Asplundh, and his father, Paul III, operates a residential tree service company. Grandpop Paul is a general foreperson overseeing Keith Confere Region crews on AEP Ohio property.

u Janelle and Eric Barrow welcomed

their first child, sweet little Olivia Grace, on February 22. Eric

is a foreperson in the Ralph Guadagno Region,

overseeing a crew on National Grid property in the north shore area

of Massachusetts.

u Aurora Rochlin, 2, the granddaughter of Mailing Department Group Leader Vicky Westfall-Foreman, has been riding horses since she was just 18 months old. Shown here leading her pony, Picasso, in the ring, the love of horses is definitely in her veins. When not hitting the trail with Aurora, Vicky works in the Home Office in

Willow Grove, Pennsylvania, helping to ensuring the timely handling of company mail and shipments.

u When General Foreperson Dave

Campfield of the Keith Confere Region passed away

on January 23 following a long illness, his friends and

coworkers wanted to do something special in his

memory. They, along with the folks at AEP Ohio, raised $1,000 and dedicated a tree

at the Dawes Arboretum to Dave. His son, Work

Planner Matthew Campfield, shared this photo of the

13-year-old trident maple that was selected, a fitting

choice for a man who loved trees and the outdoors.

t Jarred and Marie Petsch are pleased to announce the birth of their first child, Remidy Rose. She was born on March 11, weighing 5 lbs., 1 oz. and measuring 18.25 inches in length. When not doting on his daughter, Jarred is a trimmer in the Joe Sterbenz Region, working on Lincoln Electric System property in Nebraska.


p All Aboard The Opossum Express—Wildlife sightings are nothing new to our crews in the field, but General Foreperson Tim Guetzke of the Joe Schneider Region was delightfully surprised when a caravan of baby opossums being transported on the back of their mother crossed his path on July 10. Spotted near the parking location of one of his crews working for We Energies in Richfield, Wisconsin, the sight reminded Tim of children on a bus heading to school. I wonder how many mpgs, or marsupials to the gallon, the momma ‘possum gets?

WILDLIFECORNER

RETIREES HONORED

Congratulations and best wishes for a happy and healthy retirement to all the retirees listed here!


Billy AgeeJourneyman, VirginiaFirst employed October 1994 Retired June 2017

Gregory BakerTrimmer, MinnesotaFirst employed November 1985Retired April 2017

Narcisco BenavidezTrimmer, VirginiaFirst employed September 1991Retired June 2017

Randy BierleUtility Lines Construction ServicesRelay Technician, IowaFirst employed June 2008Retired June 2017

Jane BurnsBilling SpecialistWillow Grove, PennsylvaniaFirst employed February 2000Retired May 2017

John BurnsForeperson, IndianaFirst employed August 1993Retired June 2017

Cirilo CanalesTrimmer, TexasFirst employed January 1993 Retired March 2017

Michael CappsUtility Lines Construction ServicesOperator / EMJ Tech., MichiganFirst employed January 2004Retired May 2017

Bobby CarterALS of North CarolinaSupervisor, North CarolinaFirst employed January 2012Retired May 2017

Douglas ClarkCrew Leader, New JerseyFirst employed October 1993(plus seven months with Tree Preservation Co.)Retired February 2017

Beacher CoffeeGroundperson, KentuckyFirst employed February 2007Retired April 2017

Rayburn ConeForeperson, AlabamaFirst employed February 1996Retired May 2017

Demontego DavenportUtility Lines Construction ServicesJourneyman Lineworker, MarylandFirst employed June 2007Retired July 2017

Bruce EdwardsForeperson, VirginiaFirst employed February 2001Retired April 2017

Jorge EstradaForeperson, TexasFirst employed October 1993(plus five years with Blume Tree Services)Retired June 2017

Kenny GearinTransmission Planner, OhioFirst employed January 1978Retired May 2017

Ron HanchettUtility Lines Construction ServicesJourneyman Lineworker, IowaFirst employed June 2008Retired June 2017

Rafael HigueraForeperson, UtahFirst employed March 2003Retired April 2017

Owen JeffriesForeperson, KansasFirst employed June 2011Retired April 2017

Floyd Johnson, Sr.Trimmer, FloridaFirst employed October 1993 (plus two years with Farrens Tree Surgeons)Retired July 2017

George JonesForeperson, New YorkFirst employed February 1990Retired April 2017

Raymond KelleyGeneral Foreperson, KentuckyFirst employed October 1975Retired April 2017

Elwood KitchenForeperson, KentuckyFirst employed July 1984Retired April 2017

Roger LoweForeperson, VirginiaFirst employed August 1997Retired March 2017

Harold McKeeForeperson, AlabamaFirst employed August 1977Retired June 2017

Theresa MarrenGrid One SolutionsCall Center Manager, PennsylvaniaFirst employed June 2003Retired June 2017

Terry MayernickForeperson, PennsylvaniaFirst employed January 1973Retired June 2017

Angel Medina-TorresForeperson, FloridaFirst employed April 2003Retired June 2017

George MooreForeperson, KentuckyFirst employed March 2003Retired April 2017

Jimmy NealJourneyman, West VirginiaFirst employed June 1977Retired May 2017

Robert NealPlanner, West VirginiaFirst employed July 1977Retired May 2017

Susan PotterAsplundh Brush ControlOffice Manager, New YorkFirst employed February 1986Retired April 2017

George ProffittForeperson, IndianaFirst employed January 1989Retired April 2017

Michael QuickGeneral Foreperson, VirginiaFirst employed November 1977Retired April 2017

Jerry RushingGeneral Foreperson, LouisianaFirst employed March 1969Retired May 2017

Tomm SheltonUtility Lines Construction ServicesEquipment Operator, TennesseeFirst employed February 2011Retired June 2017

Carroll Spaulding, IIIForeperson, ConnecticutFirst employed November 1976Retired February 2017

Charles StewartCrew Leader, IllinoisFirst employed November 1999Retired April 2017

Robert SwansonTrimmer, MichiganFirst employed April 1984Retired June 2017

Philip Sweeney, Jr.American Electrical Testing Co.Test Technician, PennsylvaniaFirst employed March 2015Retired April 2017

Gary SymondsForeperson, New HampshireFirst employed February 2013Retired June 2017

Lawrence WalshForeperson, ColoradoFirst employed June 2000Retired July 2017

Steven WilcenskiForeperson, WisconsinFirst employed January 1995Retired March 2017

SPECIALRETIREMENTHONORS


INMEMORIAM

Pat Kinney, manager of the Human Resources (HR) Benefits Department in the Willow Grove Home Office, sailed off on the ‘U.S.S. Retired’ in July. Pat joined Asplundh in 1992 as an administrative assistant to the manager of Corporate Administration and less than two years later, she advanced to a supervisor position in the Employee Benefits (now HR Benefits) Department. In 1996, Pat was promoted to manager

and during the next 21 years, she oversaw challenging transitions in health benefit plans, personnel data systems, 401(k) retirement plans and numerous acquisitions. She is now enjoying more time for cruises and casino activities with her husband of 40 years, Claude, and staying active with bowling and family time with her sons, Chad and Justin, grandson, Devyn, and two dogs. Best wishes, Pat!

Les Parsons, manager of Asplundh operations in northern Ohio and parts of western Pennsylvania, joined the ranks of the retired in April after more than 40 years of service to the company. Originally from Indiana, Les worked briefly for Asplundh in West Virginia before settling in Ohio. He gained extensive experience in tree, spray and specialized equipment operations before his promotion to

general foreperson in 1997. Thirteen years later, Les advanced to supervisor and soon after, branch manager, before his promotion to manager in 2013. He was recognized multiple times by the company for safety and operational excellence. Retirement for Les and his wife, Lori, means more time for family, including 11 grandchildren, building a cabin in southern Ohio, hunting, fishing and scouting for antiques. Enjoy!

t Accounts Payable Specialist Donna Conard (second from L) was the guest of honor at a retirement luncheon held on April 27 in the Willow Grove Home Office. In addition to her coworkers and husband,

Bill, Accounts Payable (AP) Manager Sue Mann (second from R), Supervisor Ave Cleary (far R) and Senior AP Analyst Joyce Gillette (far L) joined in wishing her well after 24 years of loyal service to the company. Donna started out in the Equipment Accounting Department in 1993 as a clerk responsible for processing payments. She earned the Employee of the Month award in October 1997 and as her responsibilities grew, she advanced to accounts payable specialist. Happy retirement, Donna!

t Assistant General Foreperson / Pre-planner Bill Costello (second from R) was bid a fond farewell after 33 years of dedicated service to Asplundh at a retirement gathering on March 23 in Clifton, New Jersey. Pictured (L to R) are:

PSE&G Forester Bob Hagglund, Asplundh Supervisor Mike Wohnus, Bill and Regional Sponsor / Manager Ryan Swier. Bill started his career working on the property of Consolidated Edison in the greater New York City area and within 11 years, he had advanced to general foreperson. For the past seven years, Bill has worked on the PSE&G system. Although he racked up thousands of miles in Asplundh vehicles over the years, he plans to do more traveling, but now it will be for fun and family!

Kirk Clatterbuck, Sr., a foreperson in the Mike Johnson Region of Utility Lines Construction Services (ULCS), passed away on June 28 at his home in Westminster, Maryland at the age of 48. Kirk joined ULCS in 1991 as a journeyman lineworker and within four years, he had advanced to foreperson. Known for his ability to assess a job situation—routine or emergency—

and come up with the safest, most practical way to complete it, many of his coworkers remember Kirk for what he taught them over the years. For the majority of his career, he worked on the property of Baltimore Gas & Electric. Kirk is survived by his wife, Teresa; two sons, Kirk, Jr. and Ryan; a daughter, Nicole; and five grandchildren. ULCS Manager Mike Johnson wrote, “We pay tribute to his service, leadership, friendship and professional manner throughout his time with us.”

Joe Greenwald, retired supervisor who worked in the greater New York City area, passed away on June 22 at his home in Spring Hill, Florida at the age of 74. In 1981, with 17 years of prior line clearance and tree service experience, Joe came to work for Asplundh as a supervisor of operations on Long Island in New York. Over the years, he oversaw Asplundh crews

working for various investor-owned utilities in New York and parts of Connecticut. After almost 23 years with Asplundh and 39 years overall in the industry, Joe retired in 2004. A veteran of the U.S. Army, he was an active supporter of several community service organizations. Joe is survived by his wife, Donna; a brother, Bill Costello, who recently retired from Asplundh (see above); and a sister, Pearl. We extend our deepest sympathy to Joe’s family and all who knew him.

PRSRT STDU.S. POSTAGE

PAIDSoutheastern, PA

Permit # 8099

International Headquarters708 Blair Mill RoadWillow Grove, PA 19090www.asplundh.com

CHECK YOUR CALENDAR

Customers, employees and immediate family members, time is running out! Don’t miss your chance to win a cash prize for your awesome Work Related and / or Nature shots in our annual Shoot Out photo contest. You may enter up to 10 photos total combined in these two categories.

Please be sure to e-mail the original high-resolution digital image(s) from your smartphone or camera, or you may send a disc. Low-resolution cell phone, texted, or social media shots are not acceptable because they do not have enough pixels for publishing purposes.

Shoot Out winners in each category will receive a VISA gift card—$75 for Honorable Mention, $100 for third place, $150 for second and $200 for first!

Please be sure to include your name, address, phone number and the categories

you wish to enter, along with a brief description of each picture. Please e-mail your best shots to:

[email protected] or snail mail them to:

Asplundh Tree Expert, LLC Corporate Communications 708 Blair Mill Road Willow Grove, PA 19090

And while you are checking your calendar, don’t forget to order your 2018 90th Anniversary Asplundh Wall Calendar by October 27. It will feature some amazing old-timey photos from the company’s early days. Please use the Smartsheet online order form or contact Supply Chain Management in the Willow Grove Home Office immediately if you have questions. You and your customers won’t want to miss out on this one!

SHOOT OUT DEADLINE EXTENDED TO OCTOBER 27, 2017

2018 WALL CALENDAR ORDERS DUE THE SAME DAY

Documents

Autumn 2017 THE ASPLUNDH TREE · THE ASPLUNDH TREE Autumn 2017 ON THE COVER Yellow, orange and red autumn leaves make a brilliant contrast to the dark evergreens along a waterfall