Electrical Association

Community News

Sympathy

Condolences to the Hasskamp Family…Rueben Hanson, Diane Hasskamp’s father, passed away at the age of 78 at his home. Diane and Dutch Hasskamp (Dutch’s Electric, Aitkin) are long-time members of MEA. We share the family’s sadness and they are in our thoughts.

Congratulations

Ken Pederson, Dakota Electric Supply…Ken Pederson is will lead two Dakota Electric Supply branches serving as branch manager for the company’s Alexandria and Benson locations.

Dan Davidson, Border States Electric…Border States Electric (BSE) named Dan Davidson Corporate Utility Sales Manager. He has been with BSE for more than 30 years. He has served in a number of positions at different branch locations, most recently in the role of Utility Sales Manager for the company’s northern regions. In his newly expanded role, he will be responsible for the overall strategy for BSE’s utility market including agency business. Davidson and his wife, Cathy, live in Fargo. They have two grown daughters.

Crescent Electric Supply an American success story celebrates 90th Anniversary…April 15 marked the 90th anniversary of an American success story. Crescent Electric Supply Company opened on April 15, 1919, in Dubuque Iowa. Originally Titus Schmid was an electrical contractor. He started this company because he found it difficult to get needed electrical supplies as they had to be shipped on the Mississippi River from either Minneapolis or St Louis. Today they have 125 locations in 26 states and is still privately held by the founder’s family.

Noble Conservation Solutions—National Media Coverage…Congratulations to MEA members Jay Lewis and owner Matt Noble on the great article printed in the New York Epoch Times “Energy Saving Retrofits Can Save Big Money.” Follow the link on MEA’s web site to read the full article.

Thank you! Thank you! Thank you!

Thank you to the following people for making MEA’s Annual Meetings such a success:

• Steve Sviggum, Commissioner of Labor, spent Saturday morning with Board members discussing the challenges facing workers compensation along with what can be expected in Minnesota from the Federal stimulous plan.
• Roslyn Wade, Director of Apprenticeship and Labor Standards, met with the Apprentice Committee to discuss upcoming changes in apprenticeship and how electrical contractors can use apprenticeship programs to the best advantage of their electricians and their companies.
• Tom Bakk, Chair of the Senate Tax Committee, discussed ways that Minnesota was planning to deal with the budget deficit.
• Bill Daly, Federated Insurance, helped members think through ways they can shave the cost of their worker’s compensation insurance. As always, Federated Insurance is appreciated for hosting the Leadership Appreciation Dinner Meeting.
• Jesse Grant gave a special preview of his new micro brewed beers. They were excellent and we look forward to buying them soon. Jesse has no plans for leaving his day job at Jim’s Electric but is enjoying his partnership in the brewing business.
• Doug Seaton, Seaton, Beck & Peters, once again helped sponsor the Hospitality Suite.

Special thanks to Paul Stafford Electric for donating free service to MEA…Paul Stafford Electric is providing service tune ups on the MEA furnace and air-conditioning systems.

Moves and New Locations

Graybar relocates northeast Wisconsin operations…Graybar has moved its Green Bay operations to a new 1.5 million cu-ft distribution facility in De Pere, Wisconsin. The new location has 5½ times the capacity of Graybar’s former facility in Green Bay. Electrical Marketing, March 13, 2009.

Schmitz Electric closing shop…Schmitz Electric of Springfield, MN has decided to close its doors. They have been an MEA member since 1992.

Many Thanks…to Karen and Gary Brusacoram as they depart AJB Sales effective the end of June. “We have enjoyed many great years of success, support and friendship within the electrical industry; however, the time has come for us to move aside…at this we want to say Thank You for those many years of considerations. Respectfully, Karen & Gary Brusacoram.” MEA is looking forward to seeing the Brusacorams often as they are well liked and greatly appreciated for their many contributions to the industry as business people and as good friends.

Twin State Security/Books Electric has made a few changes and additions…President, Michael Books will be wed to Terri Kelley on May 8, 2009. Jacquie Urquia has been hired as the Marketing Director for Twin State Security/Books Electric. She has a Master’s in Business Administration and over 10 years experience in marketing.

Paul Stafford Electric, Heating & Cooling has acquired Manny’s Electronic Interiors… Paul Stafford Electric, Heating & Cooling is proud to announce the acquisition of Manny’s Electronic Interiors (MEI) including their business dealer relationships with Crestron Electronics plus many other premiere manufactures in the audio/video business. For 40 years Crestron has been the world’s leading manufacturer of control and automation systems, innovating technology to simplify and enhance modern lifestyles and businesses. Starting April 20, Stafford will have a full-time Crestron Programmer and technician on staff and available for installation of this product line. New services include: Electronic Interior Design, Audio/Video Systems Design and Installation, Home Theaters, Home Control Systems including Remote Controls, Security Systems, Lighting Control, Shade and Drapery Control, Distributed Audio.

Education & Meetings

Workers Compensation Summit…The Department of Labor and Industry is offering a two day summit on Workers Comp. Topics covered will include reform options, recent law changes, and how to reduce current costs. The seminar will be at Grand View Lodge in Brainerd, June 17-18. For registration and more information go to www.dli.mn.gov/summit.

Spring DOLI Class Schedule...Schedule for the DOLI 8-hour continuing education classes is now available. Classes will focus on grounding and bonding. Go to www.doli.state.mn.us/eli_2009_SpringNEC for the full schedule.