27 Nov Fueling Progress and Celebrating Milestones at McKeever Finish Carpentry
November is rolling along. Budgets were built and shared with the crews earlier this month. I’d be remiss if I didn’t mention a common trend that always seems to coincide with our monthly budget planning: a rise in diesel prices. As I write this from a truck stop, pumping what feels like a small fortune into my truck, I find myself grateful. Gazing over the wet, cold tarmac at the dozens of idling semis, I wonder, what would we do without these folks? As the pump clicks off and I nestle the nozzle back in place, I’m thankful it’s just 30 gallons.
To quote the Blues Brothers: “We’re getting the band back together.” That’s exactly what Juan is doing in Kennewick. Gyp Crete has been poured, and over the weekend, the rest of his crew will be re-mobilizing. They’re facing back-to-back deliveries, one originating from Quebec, French Canada! (I can only imagine his fuel bill.)
My pre-coronavirus quest to secure a Class A unlimited contractor’s license in the Commonwealth of Virginia has finally come to fruition. I’m happy to report that I passed the fourth of four exams yesterday—almost two years since the state shut down. After all, “Virginia is for Lovers.”
The crew in New Jersey, led by Ricardo Hernandez, is doing an excellent job setting up work for the rest of the team. And they are indeed knocking it out of the park! Four months ago, during a pre-construction walk in the labyrinthine corridors of C wing, we made a pact: “When we reach this point, let’s go to NYC to celebrate the milestone!” So, this Sunday, we’ll take a bite out of the Big Apple!
Many congratulations are due! Luis is heading to Mexico to get married, joined by his sister Ali, who is learning our trade and brings a wonderful attitude and attention to detail. Luz, who has been assisting her team members in administration, captured the MVP for outreach. Ricardo Torres is taking his family south for a vacation, while Derrick Murray is heading north with his family.
A very Happy Birthday to Jeff, Derrick, Ali, and Alejandro!
Thanks to an incredible team, I’m confident that we’ll continue to excel out on the American highways and byways, diligently serving our communities, customers, and each other.