AAI Network Spotlight

LIBI Member Spotlight

Season 3, Episode One

"Interview with Lois Fricke"

"LibI Strengths & LIHBC Objectives"

My thanks to Lois Fricke, Operations Director of LIBI, for taking the time to talk about her history with Long Island Builders Institute and charitable efforts with Long Island Home Builders Care. In this episode you'll hear how she got started with LIBI, the strengths of the organization, and the quality of it's members. Lois proudly talks about the how LIBI members often make charity a priority. 

SHOW TOPICS: LIBI's Tradeshow Expo on 10/21/21, LIHBC charitable projects, annual scholarships, Babylon's Food Bank, fighting NYS' scaffold law, NYS' new Governor Kathy Hochel, raising awareness for children with disability - are NYS parks equipped fairly, and last but not least, the growing interest in a 2022 LIBI bowling event! 

To actively support Lois & LIHBC's submission of a bill for a charitable organization exemption from NYS Labor Law 240/241 (the scaffold law explained in this episode) please visit www.libi.org or email Lois directly: [email protected]. Sign a petition, speak out, get involved.

Last but not least, Lois suggested I change the name to "LIBI MEMBER SPOTLIGHT" so here we are in what I will call the 3rd incarnation of this show; and thus it's 3rd season. 

Season 3, Episode 1; and I'm starting with Lois. It was a great interview, and I look forward to talking with Lois in future episodes to follow up on her ongoing charitable objectives with LIHBC.

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A note from me, Steve Barker: Don't forget - I am a 25 year insurance professional and a proud LIBI member. I specialize in insurance programs for contractors and their associates. That's pretty much all LIBI members. Contact me to lower your insurance costs and increase coverage. Contact me in all the ways:

Steve Barker

Call or Text: 516-610-1155

Email: [email protected]

Or surprise me with a fax: 212-858-5751

Builder Associate Spotlight, S2:E3

Episode producer & host: Steven Barker of Affiliated Insurance Agency

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"IN-SITE Interior Design" - interview with the company's founder, and creative principal, Elizabeth Sanchez Vaughan.

Email Elizabeth at: [email protected]

Or call her office: 631-673-2277

www.in-siteID.com

www.homecouturenow.com

From IN-SITE's website:

In-Site Interior Design specializes in identifying the potential within any space and then translating a client’s goals into a distinct vision and tangible experience.

Since its inception in 2004, In-Site Interior Design has made its mark throughout the New York metropolitan area by creating exceptional, original designs for commercial and high-end residential projects ranging from 10 to over 200 units.

In-Site Interior Design’s seasoned team of interior designers has been at the forefront of reclaiming and redefining once-edgy, now-chic New York City neighborhoods, including Williamsburg, Greenpoint, Bushwick and Long Island City. The firm brought a distinct design edge to these transitional neighborhoods by transforming luxury residences into spaces that reflect the cutting-edge spirit of these artistic and diverse neighborhoods while simultaneously celebrating the glamorous New Yorkers who now call them home.

Not only has the firm has created a new sensibility for these neighborhoods but, as a pioneer in creating inspiring shared spaces for multi-family residential buildings that never sit empty, In-Site Interior Design has also revolutionized NYC-friendly community gathering areas into a sought-after amenities.

Over the last 15 years, the firm has designed new single-family residences, condominium buildings, office suites, restaurants, and retail showrooms from Upper Manhattan and Long Island City to Brooklyn. Among the awards In-Site Interior Design has won for the firm’s exceptional design work is the LIBI Diamond Award for Outstanding Design.

Thank you Elizabeth!

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Producer's note:

Can I help you lower your company's annual insurance cost?  You know; liability insurance, property, workers compensation.  Maybe you need some help with reviewing your subcontractor's insurance policies and certificates. Call me and I will help: (516) 610-1155; or email: [email protected]

Builder Associate Spotlight S2:E2

"Maxons Restorations" - Interview with Richard Bailin, Senior Director of Client Services

Rich's cell phone: 917-578-2031

email: [email protected]

office phone: 516-938-6767

From Maxons Restorations website:

Maxons is widely recognized as an innovative leader of the property damage restoration industry with the specialized expertise and resources to help our clients successfully recover from all types of disasters.

Over 60 Years Of Experience On Every Project

As pioneers of the full-service restoration industry, Maxons has been restoring all types of damage to commercial and residential properties throughout the Northeast for more than half a century. Maxons' long history of customer service and practical knowledge has made our service an essential to property owners and insurance professionals alike. In recognition of its prominent role in disaster recovery, Maxons has been featured by the media and named "The Masters of Disaster" and "The Restorers to the Rich and Famous."

Did you know Rich Bailin has a 223 bowling average? Should there be a LIBI bowling charity event?  Let's get it started!

Thanks Rich for coming to our office in Plainview to record.  It was a lot of fun learning about your company and your many perfect bowling games. (That's a 300 game - 12 strikes in a row, for all you bowling novices!)

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Producer's note:

I'm Steve Barker, the host of this show and an insurance agent.  Can I help lower your insurance costs? Yes, yes I can. Give me a call or text at: 516-610-1155.  Or email: [email protected]

THANKS FOR LISTENING TO THE SHOW AND READING ALL THIS STUFF TOO.  See you next time.

Builder Associate Spotlight S2:E1

Networking Podcast 

"Nicolock"

Interview with Kurt Smith, the Nassau territory manager.

Paver blocks and retaining walls. That's what it's all about these days.  Colorful ones at that. Nicolock has new ideas for homeowners on this ever growing Long Island.  They are a family business, and Kurt Smith is on today's episode to tell us how, despite their impressive growth in the northeast, Nicolock is still your local paving stone expert. Come walk barefoot at their Lindenhurst location, learn which pavers feel cool on your feet, while still easy on the eyes. (Wow, I am inspired today!)

Visit www.nicolock.com to peruse their many styles and colors.  From their website: 

"Pave your way to the perfect project and turn your landscape befores into stunning ever-afters. With Nicolock paving stones, paving slabs, retaining walls and accents, the outdoor space of your dreams is closer than ever. Whether it’s a custom patio, a predesigned outdoor brick fire pit or anything else that can be fabricated from pavers, Nicolock stones will deliver the rich, vibrant, long-lasting color any landscape design project should have."

Email Kurt Smith at: [email protected] or call him (631) 620-2728. Tell him Steve from Builder Associate Spotlight podcast sent you.

Find Nicolock on twitter, instagram, and LinkedIn.

Here's the link to the first of the Nicolock Tech Team youtube videos:

https://youtu.be/OKYb1UW66dU

Subscribe and watch all of them! Like now! 

Thanks Kurt for the hospitality and helping me start season 2 off on the right foot.

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PRODUCER'S NOTE

I'm Steve Barker, the host of this show, and an insurance agent. I specialize in all types of important commercial insurance. I can help you lower your insurance costs this year.  You know your policies expire at some future date this year, why not email me and ask me to lower your costs, improve your coverage, and improve your service.  I go the extra mile, it's the only way I know how to work.  Thanks for reading all this stuff!  Have a great day, Steve. (516) 610-1155, [email protected]

Also, this podcast (Builder Associate Spotlight) is currently on the Twitter!  Yes I call it The Twitter.  @BuildAssocPod.  Follow me, and I'll follow you back.  Thanks!  (There's no way anyone reads this far down into show notes for a podcast.)

Our thanks to Boaty McBoatface.

Builder Associate Spotlight S1:E15

"Health E Habitats" 

Interview with Michael and Marie Spinelle

Environmental Wellness - it's a pretty big deal, and if you are a contractor on Long Island who needs a work location (new or reno) cleaned & detailed post-construction, you should contact Michael and Marie. They are a lot more than "just a cleaning company".

FROM THEIR www.healthehabitats.com WEBSITE:

"Living a healthy lifestyle is a mindset, first and foremost. It’s the dedication to living your life in a way that respects your body, your health, and your happiness. Indoor Wellness Environment™ is part of that commitment. We spend 90% of our lives indoors, which is a staggering amount of time! Our families get exposed to all kinds of human-made and natural materials and their byproducts inside the home.

People want assurances that the conditions inside their homes are not adversely affecting the health and wellbeing of their families, yet they lack a single comprehensive resource that can assess conditions, identify the sources of problems, implement corrective measures and then provide on-going quality improvements. These factors hold true for generally healthy people who are seeking improvements to their indoor environment, as well as for people dealing with health issues like immune deficiencies, respiratory ailments, and allergies. Indoor environmental conditions are also a concern to people who may be undergoing lifestyle changes such as mothers to be and households with newborn additions.  healthEhabitats™ has the IQ, resources, programs, and certified and trained personnel to assist you in this pursuit. There’s no grade, metric, rating system, or app that can give an Indoor Environmental Wellness™ score; it’s a lifestyle, much like any pursuit of healthy living."

Contact information:

Phone number: 877-861-3662

[email protected]

[email protected]

Thanks Marie and Michael for being excellent guests!

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PRODUCER'S NOTE:

Thanks for listening to Builder Associate Spotlight. I'm Steve Barker, I specialize in commercial insurance (podcasting is my side-gig). If I can help lower your insurance costs... that'd be great for you and me. Give me a call: 516-610-1155; or email [email protected].

Subscribe to this show on Stitcher (for android phones) or on Apple iTunes. Please leave a 5-star rating with your review and I'll read your review on a future episode. (That's like a free ad, if you write the review the right way.) 

Take care, brush your hair.

I know I can write anything down here, because who really takes time to read podcast show notes all the way to the bottom?  You! That's who! Peace.

Builder Associate Spotlight; S1:E14

Learning about Canstruction 2019

Hello! This episode I talk with Tracy Lobdell and Anne Bershatsky, both enthusiastic members (and officers) for the annual nonprofit event: Canstruction.

Please read below, from their website, www.canstructionli.org:

The Design/Build Competition Fighting Hunger on Long Island Structure Buildout: October 29, 2019    4PM - 4PM

Awards Reception:  October 30, 2019    6PM - 8PM

Exhibit Open to the Public:  October 31-November 18, 2019, 8AM - 6PM everyday

Location: RXR Plaza, Uniondale, NY. Across the street from Nassau Colliseum.

“Canstruction is the most unique food charity in the world!

For thousands on Long Island, the day begins and ends with the anguish of hunger. Canstruction Long Island is determined to end this suffering. At our event, teams are given 12 hours to defy expectations, logic and gravity as they build fantastic sculptures from thousands of cans of food. Driven by the knowledge that their structures will change lives by lifting the spirits of those in need, by raising public awareness, and most importantly, by filling the shelves of local food banks dedicated volunteers work tirelessly to bring their creations to life. The following day, the super-sized masterpieces are judged in a variety of categories as these unconventional art exhibits are opened to the public. The cost of admission: just one can of food. At the end of the exhibition, all cans are donated to help feed the hungry on Long Island.

Canstruction is using ‘one can’ as a catalyst for change, ‘one can’ to represent the building blocks of these massive sculptures, ‘one can’ to prove that every act of kindness makes a difference. Through the generosity of volunteers, celebrity judges, and members of the community, Canstruction has contributed millions of pounds of food to community food banks demonstrating that we can win the fight against hunger. Since 2007, the participants of Canstruction Long Island have donated over 480,000 cans, yielding approximately 320,000 meals, along with approximately $40,000 to help fight hunger on Long Island​."

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Builder Associate Spotlight Podcast

I'm Steve Barker, I do commercial insurance during the day and podcast editing at night! I'm a LIBI member looking to join other building organizations. Would your org appreciate a podcast? Call me. If you would like a quote on your insurance contact me directly at 516-610-1155, or [email protected]. I work for Affiliated Agency in Plainview. Take care, brush your hair!

Builder Associate Spotlight: Season 1, episode 13

A day at the beach with Dave Bloom of Pine Aire Truck Service! What else do you need to know? 

When you bring Dave your trucks for repair, tell him Steve from that Spotlight podcast sent you.

My thanks to Scordio Productions for the video version found on Dave's company's webpage: www.pineairetruck.com

And I'm Steve Barker, your friendly neighborhood insurance man who podcasts as a hobby. If I can lower your insurance costs, please contact me at [email protected], or call me at 516-610-1155.

Thanks for listening!  I really appreciate it. Please subscribe on itunes or Stitcher.  Leave a 5-star rating and written review.

Take care,

Steve Barker

Affiliated Agency Inc.

Interview with a LIBI legend: Charlie Mancini (with help from Annemarie diSalvo of diSalvo Interiors)

Builder Associate Spotlight: Season 1, episode 12

My guest today is Charlie Mancini. I was very happy to talk to him about his family, how he got started in construction, how he helped found LIBI, and Long Island Home Builders Care.  Charlie was a terrific guest, and that may have been because I had Annemarie diSalvo (of diSalvo Interiors) helping me interview him.

Thank you Charlie for this opportunity to learn from the master. Your legacy can be found all over Suffolk County with every home your companies built, and with all the charitable work you've done.  And I know, I know... to you it's not work, you are just helping your Long Island family. Thanks again!

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I'm Steve Barker the host of Builder Associate Spotlight, a LIBI member and a commercial insurance agent working for Affiliated Agency in Plainview NY.  If I can help you with your insurance please email me at [email protected] or call 516-610-1155.

Please subscribe to this podcast, then rate and review on itunes, or wherever you hear your pod. 

See you next time!

Steve Barker

INSURANCE is my A-game.  Podcasting is my hobby.

"Interview with Christine Gordon and Will Flower"

Winters Brothers Waste Systems

Builder-Associate Spotlight: Season 1, Episode 12

My guests today are Will Power and Christine Gordon of Winters Brothers Waste Systems. Their location in West Babylon is very impressive, which was no surprise. They have many locations on Long Island, their kelly green trucks are everywhere (some with superheroes painted on the hood). We talk about trash, and LIBI, and Christmas trees, and all the good stuff the Winters family does. Thank you Christine and Will for sitting to talk with me about Winters Bros.

This is from Winters Bros website:

"Winters Bros. Waste Systems is the premier solid waste and recycling company on Long Island, servicing commercial, residential, industrial and municipal customers across both counties.

We are Long Islanders, locally owned and operated, with a successful history that dates back to the 1950s. Over the last 60 years, we have built a network of regional operations, including multiple hauling locations, six recycling centers and 12 transfer stations.

Winters Bros.’ solid and sound financial footing and our talented and professional team means that our equipment is top notch and our service to you, our valued customer is first class. Give us a call and experience the best service on Long Island."

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This podcast is produced and hosted by me, Steve Barker. I'm an experienced insurance agent working for Affiliated Insurance Agency. I insure builders and their associates! If I can help your business lower annual insurance cost, please give me a call: 516-610-1155 or email me [email protected]. 

Thank you for supporting Builder Associate Spotlight!

Your buddy, 

Steve

"Interview With Eric Vogel"

Coastal Cabinet Works

Builder-Associate Spotlight: Season 1 Episode 10

My guest today is Eric Vogel, head of the outdoor cabinet division of Coastal Cabinet Works.  He's involved with other aspects of Coastal Cabinet Works, such as sales, design, and of course their kitchen cabinet lines.

I visited Eric's Plainview office, and marveled at the fantastic showroom. They also have a showroom in South Hampton. Eric has a very interesting work history leading him to designing your perfect backyard kitchen, and it involves the Energizer Bunny.  Just like that bunny, Eric keeps going and going and going... 

This is from Coastal Cabinet Works' website:

"Coastal Cabinet Works offers a wide selection of North American Outdoor Cabinetry that meets the highest quality standards. We have carefully selected lines offering options that meet your unique design style and budget. Coastal's fully trained design team puts the same thoughtfulness and dedication into designing your outdoor kitchen, as your indoor." 

This episode also contains my first FOC (free of charge) "commercial".  If you'd like to put together a 30 second spot and be heard on this podcast let me know.  We'll put one together.

Contact him at: [email protected]

Thanks for taking the time to talk, Eric! See you at LIBI again soon.

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This podcast is produced and hosted by me, Steve Barker. I'm an experienced insurance agent working for Affiliated Insurance Agency Inc. I insure contractors, real estate owners, architects, engineers, retail operations, restaurants, and many other associated businesses. If I can help you lower your insurance costs, please call me at 516-610-1155, or email me: [email protected].

Thank you for listening to Builder Associate Spotlight. Now take a trip to CCW and ask for Eric!

Your buddy,

Steve

Affiliated Insurance Agency

Plainview, NY