We are optimistic that yardages will be up this year and costs down. So far thru the end of January, we’re up on yardage, so hopefully that’s a good sign. If all the projects that are proposed, rumors of projects pan out, and we get the work, things will be better.

I’m sure most everyone has heard of the Vision Iowa Projects. Waterloo is trying to get Vision money for a project that is very near our location. In fact it completely surrounds us. Well, you never know, we might have to concrete our way down the road a bit.

The shop has been busy getting ready for the next season, yearly inspections, repairs, and painting mixers. We have requested a new paint shop, but it hasn’t arrived yet. Craig in the parts Dept. does lots of searching on the Net for prices and has helped lower a number of costs when replacing parts.

Here’s an example of what you can do: Lorain crane electrical switch, Dealer $60.00, found on internet at Radio Shack for $3.00. It has also made local suppliers more competitive.

Tuesday the 5^th of February was a great day here. We participated in the annual wellness screening. We had great participation and things went very smoothly. Scheduling responses really helped out and the Malloy people did a great job. The guys who had to do all the blowing were a little tired but will survive. (Only had one pass out). We hope everyone has taken advantage of this opportunity.

The Managers meeting and the Safety meetings in Brooklyn have given us all loads of information and new challenges for the upcoming year. Think and Practice Safety!