AJAX
The Future is Riding on Ajax
2015 / 2016
SR 93 (I-75) Collier & Charlotte Counties
Golden Gate Boulevard Reconstruction
US 41 / SR 60 - Hillsborough County
FTBA, ACAF & NAPA Awards
Inside this Issue
Featuring….
2015 / 2016
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8
16
18
Sumter Boulevard - City of North Port
Beck - New Manufacturing Facility
Manufacturing
AJAX
3
President’s Message
4
Awards and Achievements
5
ACAF Annual Convention - Awards Presentation
6
SR 93 ( I-75) - Collier County
7
Sumter Boulevard - City of North Port
8
Beck - New Manufacturing Facility
10
US 41 / SR 60 - Hillsborough County
12
SR 93 (I-75) - Charlotte County
13
US 41 / SR 951 to Greenway Road
14
Golden Gate Boulevard Reconstruction
15
The Quality Control World
16
Manufacturing
18
Equipment Management
19
ARTBA 2015 Project Management Academy
20
Safety Days 2015
23
Career Milestones / Scholarships / Promotions
26
2015 Health Screenings
28
B2W Training Seminar
29
14th Annual Ajax Charity Golf Tournament
35
Honoring our Military
36
Gator’s Retirement Party
38
Gettin’ Nothin’ Butt Sauced
40
We’ve Got Mail
42
Lowry Park Zoo
45
Birth Announcements
46
Ajax Offices and Plants
Cover picture: SR 35/700 (US 301), Pasco County
Back picture: North Venice Asphalt Plant
Equipment Management
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TM
President's Message
As a group, our company needs to do the best work
possible so that the public feels confident that their
money is being spent wisely by government leaders.
It is important that we, as dedicated employees,
continue to strive for perfection and, in doing so,
continue to achieve excellence and be proud that we
are a part of the Ajax family. We are looked up to
as a leader in our industry and, therefore, we must
always reach high to be the best we can be.
S
trong reputation, solid
financial status, excellent
quality, safety oriented, well
maintained asphalt plants and equipment, good
people, family owned and operated. Words that
I have heard describing Ajax. Words that don’t
come easy. It takes strong leadership and hard
work to make it possible year after year. All of
us should be proud that we are part of it and
have had a hand in our success. Thanks so much
to all of you for
Thanks to all for
making Ajax Paving
your dedication
Industries the best
and commitment highway, road and
street contractor and
to Ajax!
manufacturer in
Florida.
2015 is shaping up to be one of our best. The
Florida economy is getting stronger and more
vibrant. The Florida Department of
Transportation, our best customer, continues to
add lane miles and provide our existing facilities
with much needed work. Counties and cities
have seen the need and have heard the people.
So they too have implemented funding
mechanisms to upgrade and repair their roads
and streets.
Ajax has developed a large customer list of hot mix
companies and government municipalities that have
relied on our asphalt plants to be running every day
and produce the best quality hot mix material. Our
plant and laboratory people have done a great job in
keeping the quality in the mix, but also keeping the
quality in the equipment making the mix. I could not
be more proud of that group and the reputation they
have developed. It is well earned!
Again, our construction folks continue to grow as we
have added a paving crew, several grade crews,
concrete crews and MOT crews. Seasoned Ajax
employees have reached out to the new hires and,
through our Mentoring Program and safety training,
have done a fantastic job of bringing them up to our
safety standards. As you will see in the following
pages, our quality construction speaks volumes about
the people dedicated to completing our jobs on
budget and on time. A huge “THANK YOU” to all as I
understand the hardship of alternating day and night
work, yet you perform at such high standards.
Lastly, you will continue to see new equipment, more
of our company trucks and a company that continues
to invest for the future. Be safe out there and
remember to watch out for each other. Thanks to all
for your dedication and commitment to Ajax!
Mike Horan
President
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2015 Ajax Construction / Safety Awards
AJAX
and Achievements
TM
EXCELLENCE IN PAVING AWARDS
Asphalt Contractors Association of Florida
STATEWIDE & A.P. BOLTON AWARDS
I-75 from SR-78 to the Charlotte County Line
Lee County
Tonnage: 57,847
Lane Miles: 35.7 m
A.P. BOLTON AWARD
SR 589 Suncoast Parkway from County Line Road to SR 50
Hernando County
Tonnage: 31,266
Lane Miles: 28.5 m
I-75 - SR-78 to the Charlotte County Line
RESURFACING / RURAL CATEGORY
SR 35/700 (US 301) from North of Pioneer Museum Road
to South of Mosstown Road
Pasco County
Tonnage: 24,427.18 Lane Miles: 21.03 m
QUALITY IN CONTRUCTION AWARDS
National Asphalt Pavement Association
SR 589 / Suncoast Parkway
Hernando County
SR 589 Suncoast Parkway
SR 93 (I-75) From South of SR 78 to Charlotte County Line
Lee County
2015 FTBA SAFETY AWARD
Florida Transportation Builders Association
Award of Superior Achievement
For an Outstanding Safety Record in 2014
2015 FTBA TRANSPAC
Florida Transportation Builders Association
Yeti Transportation Champion
SR 35/700 (US 301)
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Asphalt Contractors Association of Florida, Inc.
Awards Presentation
Mickey Cox, Vince Hafeli, Mike Horan, Mike Woody, Andy DeCraene, Mark Minich, Scott Pittman
The Asphalt Contractors Association of
Florida, Inc. held their 58th Annual Convention from
June 19 -21, 2015 at the Gaylord Palms Resort and Convention
Center in Kissimmee, FL. During the convention, there was an
open forum discussion with FDOT, the General Annual
Membership Meeting, Annual Awards Banquet and various
activities.
Mike Woody, Mark Marine, Andy DeCraene
On Saturday, June 20th at the Annual Awards Banquet, Ajax Paving
Industries was pleased to receive three prestigious awards that
were presented by Mark Marine, President of the Asphalt
Contractors Association. Andy DeCraene, Area Manager in Fort
Myers and Mike Woody, Project Manager were presented the
2015 A.P. Bolton Award, Statewide Winner, I-75 from SR 78 to the
Charlotte County Line Project in Lee County.
Scott Pittman, Vice President in Tampa, was presented the 2015
A.P. Bolton Award, Turnpike Enterprise, SR-589/Suncoast Parkway
Project in Hernando County. Scott also received the 2015
Excellence in Pavement, Resurfacing-Rural Award, District 7
Winner, SR 35/700 (US 301) from North of Pioneer Museum Road
to South of Mosstown Road in Pasco County.
CONGRATULATIONS and thank you to all the hardworking Ajax
employees who worked days and nights to make these jobs a
smooth ride and successful projects!
Scott Pittman & Mark Marine
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SR 93 (I-75) Project
Groundbreaking Event
2015 Groundbreaking Event - Front, left to right: Kathleen Hanagan, Johnson Engineering/KSI, Charlie McCleaf, Ajax, Jon Sands, FDOT, Marlena
Gore, FDOT, Becky Coker, KSI, Governor Rick Scott, Tom Deer, KSI, Nikesh Patel, FDOT, John Levengood, KSI
Back, left to right: James Heffelfinger, Clayton Bell, Chris Spencer, Steven Coker, Karl Pyles, KSI Group
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ollier County - On June 15, 2015, Ajax Paving Industries
started construction of the $31.6 million FDOT contract to widen
I-75 from two lanes in each direction to three lanes from the
Golden Gate Parkway Interchange (Exit 105) to the Collier Boulevard
Interchange (Exit 101). The construction of these lanes will complete the
six lane roadway from Alligator Alley to Charlotte County.
In conjunction with the roadway widening, the project also consists of
the widening of two bridges, box culverts and storm piping extensions,
16,000 feet of 20 foot high sound wall, guardrail, lighting and signing.
This Area 2, Fort Myers project is being managed by Area Manager Andy
Decraene and Project Superintendent Charlie McCleaf.
The time frame for this project was bid for 525 days and Ajax Paving
Industries is pursuing a completion time of 425 days to receive a
substantial incentive bonus.
The first 100 days of the contract has indicated clearly that with the
exceptional progress made by our subcontractors, Lee Mar, (roadway
and associated dirt work), Guymann Construction (storm drainage),
Lovin Construction (box culverts), ZEP Construction (bridge
construction), and ETI (clearing and grubbing) our goal of 425 day early
completion is entirely possible.
In addition to all the work mentioned, Ajax Paving Industries will place
nearly 50,000 tons of asphalt product on this project.
By Charlie McCleaf
Project Superintendent
Northbound from Santa Barbara Parkway Bridge
Charles McCleaf and Governor Rick Scott
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Sumter Boulevard
City of North Port
S
and wire for street
lighting, sidewalk
lighting and signals
for Price Boulevard
intersection.
Hazeltine Nurseries
installed the
irrigation system
with a different
variety of trees and
landscaping in the
decorated island
median that runs
the entire length of
the project. GCE
Services installed
71,938 SY of sod on
the project.
McShea Contracting managed the placing of all striping and
thermo.
arasota County - Ajax Paving reconstructed
Sumter Boulevard and Price Boulevard for the City of
North Port. This was a $9,199,229 project at 1.16 miles
in length. The job consisted of constructing two new
northbound lanes, along with removing the old two lane
roadway and reconstructing to become the new southbound
lanes which consisted of 14,970 CY of regular excavation,
43,491.40 CY of embankment, 71,477 SY of stabilization,
54,088 SY of OBG 6 base rock, 4,473.8 tons of SP 12.5 C and
4,716.20 tons of 12.5 friction course. Bob’s Barricades
supplied all maintenance of traffic signs and devices to keep
the traveling public and all employees safe. Turtle Southeast
milled the old roadway of 3,000 SY. Consolidated Productions
Groups installed 9,000 LF of storm pipe, structures and 1,825
LF of underdrain in eleven retention ponds. Frederick Derr
and Curb Systems placed 31,312 LF of F-Curb, 10,000 LF of 4”
sidewalks and driveways and 7,000 SY of reinforced
decorative stamped concrete for crosswalks and turn lanes.
Road Runner Highway Signs installed all underground conduit
The project was managed by Scott Gilliard, Project Manager
and Steve Sherman, Project Superintendent. Thanks to
Foremen Chris Stewart and Henry Suggs and their grade
crews; Foremen Bob Popielarz and Wally Cabral and their
paving crews. Albert Dowling and Vinny Ferrone served as
foremen over the cleanup. MOT was performed by Nelson
Waddell and crew.
We are proud of all our Ajax employees that worked with the
dedicated determination of achieving a successful project.
Thank you!
By Scott Gilliard
Project Manager
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Beck - New Manufacturing Facility
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learwater, Pinellas County - In June of 2015, Ajax completed a large site development and infrastructure
project for the Beck Construction Group of Tampa. In spring of 2014, The Beck Group was tasked to complete the
construction of approximately 175,000 SF manufacturing facility to supplement an existing facility to the north. Beck
subcontracted Ajax to complete the civil package of the work. Ajax began work in July of 2014. The existing site was
approximately 13 acres and had previously been used as a ready-mix concrete facility, among other industrial uses. One of the
many challenges of the project was working adjacent to the fully operational existing manufacturing facility and maintaining
access at all times for deliveries and employees. Another significant challenge was managing the interface between the vertical
work on the building by others and the site work by Ajax.
The original contract amount was approximately 4.5 million dollars. Nearly twenty contract change orders in excess of 1.3
million dollars were executed, bringing the total contract to over 5.8 million dollars. The contract consisted of the following
general scope:

Over-excavation of approximately 100,000 CY of unsuitable material
and replacement with clean materials

Installation of over 4,100 LF of storm pipe, ranging from 18” round
to 48x76” elliptical

Installation of over 40 drainage structures and manholes

Installation of over 1,000 LF of sanitary sewer pipe and new sanitary
lift station

Installation of over 2,500 LF of water and Class V fire line with
appurtenances

Installation of over 2,000 LF of roof drains

Excavation, grading, placement of rip-rap for retention pond

Installation of over 7,000 LF of concrete curb and 2,000 SY of
sidewalk

Approximately 25,000 SY of stabilization, base, and paving
The majority of the work above was self-performed by Ajax crews. The
broad scope of work highlights our ability to self-perform diverse civil
projects. Dale Purcell served as the project superintendent. Ajax crews
spent nearly 25,000 man hours on the job. The majority of the concrete
work was done by the crews of Paul Robinson and Fredy Garay, the
grading by John Duncan and Robert Braden, the pipe was primarily
installed by Dave Brower, and the excavation by Roberto Rodriguez.
Special thanks to the crew of Dave Brower. This crew showed an ability
to perform multiple tasks and do whatever was asked of them while
working many Saturdays along the way!
By Jim Price
Project Manager
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Roadway: 11,154.30 LF (2.113 Miles)
Bridges: 729 LF (0.138 Miles)
Contract Days: 495
Amount: $ 13,220,362.02
US 41/SR 60
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illsborough County - Dave Reid, General Manager
of Business Development, bid this successful project,
which is being managed by Ed Street, Project
Superintendent. A dedicated MOT crew managed by Dana
Martiello has been on the project from day one, and has been a
major source of controlling and implementing traffic control
without any incident to-date. Joe White’s paving crew with
Quality Control Technician, Daniel Buckingham, has installed
95% of all the asphalt pavement on the project. Rene Cardona’s
crew has closely worked with other crews on site; namely, the
pipe crew on draincrete work, and multiple concrete crews
managed by Foremen Fredy Garay, John Lake and Paul
Robinson, as well as Concrete Superintendent Leo Remijan from
Michigan.
The project consists of 2.58 million dollars of site work, clearing,
grubbing and maintenance of traffic. The project also includes
27,133 SY of pavement widening and OBG-1 and OBG-12 using
full depth asphalt pavements, 106,717 SY of existing roads
milling of 1” to 4” depths, 21,188 tons of TLD and FC-12.5
asphalt with 76-22 PMA in final lifts, 79,627 SY of asphalt rubber
membrane interlayer installed by Pave Rite (specialized
subcontractor), 7,565 LF of concrete curb, 1,594 LF of concrete
separators, 6,353 SY of 4” and 6” sidewalks and driveways.
A major item on the project was to remove and replace the
existing 22,315 SY of asphalt pavement at the intersection of
SR 60 (Adamo Drive) and US 41 (50th Street) from asphalt
pavement to 11.50 inches of concrete pavement. Due to minor
changes to Traffic Control Plans approved by FDOT and with
help from Ajax Michigan concrete pavement crew, Ajax was able
to expedite the construction of 22,315 SY of concrete pavement
and is scheduled to complete the overall project three months
ahead of the original schedule.
Major subcontract work includes the Palm River Bridge deck
removal and replacement on US 41 which has already been
completed by Cone and Graham. The work on street lighting,
and modifications to existing signalization systems at Broadway
and US 41, Palm River Road and US 41, SR 60 and US 41 is being
performed by Highway Safety Devices. It is expected to be
completed in January 2016
By Ali Shaikh
Project Manager
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Concrete paving on US 41
Intersection of US 41 and SR 60
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SR 93 (I-75)
from Lee County Line
to Tuckers Grade
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harlotte County – This Fort
Myers, Area 2 project is being
led by John Markle, Project
Superintendent and Clay Cross, Project
Manager. The $22.8 million dollar
project started January 14, 2015, and
includes the widening of SR 93 (I-75)
from the Lee County Line to Tuckers
Grade in Charlotte County.
As of October 2015, we are currently
60% complete with contract work in
38% of the contract time. This contract
is A+B Incentive / Disincentive bonus
based with a 680 day duration and
maximum early incentive bonus for
early completion within 590 days.
The “A- Team” on this project includes
Foreman Rickey Helsel and his crew
(Bobby Wolfe, Jr., Dean Gallant, and
Matthew Cline) and Foreman Tim
Smith’s crew (David Chavarria and
Richard Wilson) who performed
roughly 30% of the earthwork activities
on the project and set the tempo for
our fast paced start. With over 95,000
tons of HMA to lay, Foremen Lee Lamb
and Chris Ance and their crews have
both been busy turning it black with
quality paving in a safe, productive
manner. In addition, all crews have
been assisted by the MOT crews of
Foreman Tommie Harris (Terrance
James and Edwin Flores) and Foreman
Sam Manahov (Wilmer Maldonado and
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Tim Hjermstad). Key subcontractors
are EHC Construction, Inc. (mass
excavation, earthwork, and limerock
base), Lovin Construction (concrete box
culverts), Consolidated Production
Groups, Inc. (storm drainage) and Zep
Construction (bridge).
At the conclusion of our project, Area 2
will have constructed 57 of the 60 miles
I-75 corridor within Charlotte, Lee and
Collier Counties.
By Clay Cross
Project Manager
US 41 / SR 951
to Greenway Road
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ollier County - The US 41 Design-Build
Project has taken some major strides over the
past year. The ultimate six-lane section has
seen completion of utility work, drainage, soundwall
and concrete box culverts. Accompanying this list are
the eastbound travel lanes, 10’ shared-use path and
gravity wall.
Since the milestone traffic shift in March and June, the
project has demolished the old US 41 roadway and has
continued work on the Henderson Creek Bridge,
drainage, barrier walls, sidewalks, and westbound
travel lanes.
The $37.8 million dollar job broke ground in December
of 2013 and slated for 900 contract days. The project
team is currently pushing to complete the job 150 days
early. This magical date is December 21, 2015, and if
finished, would give Ajax the full incentive bonus. At
the completion, Ajax will have laid 45,000 tons of
structural and friction course asphalt, all making its
way south from Ajax Plant 4 in Fort Myers.
Design-build projects are set up with more risk, but in
turn have potential for greater reward. The key to
success is communication, planning and follow
through. For this project specifically, the key
challenges were outside utility coordination and
scheduling, relationship with the FDOT/CEI, and more
or less building a 3.5 mile runway on top of the
Everglades.
Some key personnel on this project have been
instrumental at getting us where we are today. Our
core team, Felipe Jaramillo, Alternative Contracting
Project Manager, Ralph Bridger, Project
Superintendent and John Savage, QC Manager, have
worked together with all the complexities that come
with a design-build project. The Ajax field team has
also made a big impact on this project over the past
two years. Every one of Ajax’s Area 2 employees have
worked on this project including paving crews led by
Lee Lamb and Chris Ance, grade crews led by Tim Smith
and Rick Helsel, and MOT crews led by Sam Manahov
and Tommy Harris. We also had a main stay in Larry
Sizemore. Larry performed all the mixing of subgrade
and RAP blend of the old road, as well as all around
general duties.
By Matt Desotell
Project Manager
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Golden Gate Blvd. Reconstruction
East of Wilson to 18th Street
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ollier County - In
November 2014, Ajax was
selected as the successful
proposer by Collier County
Government and earned the honor to
design and construct this 2.1 mile
reconstruction project in Golden Gate
Estates, Naples, FL. The project is a
$19.4 million dollar design-build with a
maximum construction contract time
of 745 days. Construction started
August 24, 2015. Clearing and grubbing
and utility relocations will take place
during the first 120 days of
construction.
This critical project consists of
approximately 2.1 miles of four-lane
reconstruction of Golden Gate
Boulevard from the beginning of the
existing four-lane to two-lane
transition east of Wilson Boulevard to
18th Street plus FDOT tapers. The
proposed project also includes
widening the existing Golden Gate
Main Canal bridge from two to four
lanes, a boat ramp with parking and
turnaround area, and reconstructing
nine intersections. In addition to the
roadway expansion, improved features
will include turn lanes at every side
street with U-turn accommodations,
on-street bike lanes and sidewalks on
both sides of the roadway. The project
is designed to help relieve some of the
traffic demands caused by local
population growth in the Golden Gate
Estates.
The project is being managed and built
by Ajax’s Area 2 in Fort Myers. Charlie
McCleaf and Wilmer Maldonado have
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been working on the project during the
preliminary phase of construction.
21,500 tons of asphalt will be produced
from Plant 4 in Fort Myers and will be
laid during the 2016 and 2017 calendar
years.
The project is being designed by
Stantec’s Fort Myers office. Major
subcontractors include Thomas Marine
(bridge), Guymann (storm drainage)
and On-Grade Contracting (earthwork
and base).
Felipe Jaramillo, PE, DBIA
Alternative Contracting
Project Manager
The QC World
FIELD QUALITY CONTROL
Dan Buckingham
Mark Slomski
Paul McCabe
Matt Fell
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T
he future of Ajax Quality Control. As
2015 comes to a close and 2016 commences,
we have the need to hire additional field
quality control staff. This has proven to be a difficult
task, as quality control is not for everyone. The
position requires multiple attributes (ethics, people
skills, long hours, mathematics, patience, etc.), in
order to be performed effectively.
e also continue to immerse ourselves in
seeking out innovative means, methods,
procedures and equipment to maintain
the Ajax reputation as a leader in quality and
customer satisfaction. My goal as a manager is to
work hard each day in maintaining Ajax as an industry
leader as it relates to producing a quality product.
On a related note, we are working closely with the
Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) in the
much needed revamping of the processes and
specifications within the FDOT earthwork section.
John Savage, who has done a phenomenal job
heading up the Quality Control Team on the I-275
Design-Build Project, will be leading the way for us in
this venture.
The search for qualified candidates has further
solidified my appreciation for our field quality control
staff. The staff of Mark Slomski, Paul McCabe, Danny
Buckingham and Matt Fell delivered premium results
in a demanding, short-handed environment. It has
truly been my pleasure to work with this group of
guys that I consider to be second to none.
Let’s all keep up the good work and strive for an even
better 2016!
By Michael Curle
Quality Control Manger
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MANUFACTURING
NAPA Diamond Achievement Commendation
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And Sustainable Commendation
jax’s seven asphalt plants located in North Venice, Punta Gorda, Palmetto, Fort Myers,
Odessa, Tampa and Largo once again earned NAPA’s Diamond Achievement
Commendation for Excellence in Asphalt Plant/Site Operations. This Diamond
Achievement Commendation recognizes responsible asphalt operation practices and cultivates
good community relations. This award clearly demonstrates a commitment to excellence with a
community focus. The self-assessment process addresses six essential facets of the asphalt
plant/site: appearance, operations, environmental practices, safety, permitting and regulatory compliance and
community relations. Earning the Commendation exemplifies the asphalt plants’ commitment to excellence and
continuous improvement in all aspects of facility operations and community relations.
A
NAPA Diamond Quality Commendation
jax’s seven asphalt plants once again earned NAPA’s Diamond Quality Commendation.
This Commendation is a unique self-assessment program that focuses on plant practices
resulting in excellent product quality. The Diamond Quality Commendation is an honor in
which a company, their customers, their employees and the industry can take great pride. It
clearly demonstrates a corporate commitment to quality.
The areas evaluated in the self-assessment process are RAP and aggregate handling, asphalt storage, drying and
mixing, air quality, truck scales, silos and control rooms. Earning the Commendation exemplifies the idea of a
blueprint for excellence to the pavement material that is produced.
2015 Upgrades & Improvements
Plant 1 - North Venice
Installation of a new “on-road” diesel fuel tank is nearing completion. In December, we will be installing a new
virgin aggregate screen deck. Stormwater improvements have been made at the office, garage and plant.
Plant 2 - Punta Gorda
Preliminary work has begun on conversion of the plant from a parallel to counterflow facility. The conversion will
reduce emissions and will also increase the hourly production capability by 60 to 75 percent. As part of the
conversion, a control room addition was done along with new roof treatment.
Plant 5 - Odessa
A new virgin scale and weigh bridge have been installed at the facility.
Plant 7 - Largo
New liquid asphalt calibration tank and asphalt pump have been installed, along with a new “off-road” diesel tank.
In December, we will be installing new WEM Automation plant controls.
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Punta Gorda Asphalt Plant 2
Asphalt Crushing/Screening Unit
Ajax is now in the reclaimed asphalt processing business. At present, processing of material is for our own use. The
operation is being overseen by Tim Gearheart with William “Bill” Gearheart and Chris Whiddon II at the controls.
2015 - Is it just me, or are we busy?
B
while on vacation in Utah getting his daughter off to
college. Hector Arroyo is answering calls while visiting
his mother in Puerto Rico. The list of names goes on.
usy was the buzz word in 2014. Now that we
are nearing the end of 2015, by comparison
2014 seems as if we were in a down economy.
Manufacturing has once again been operating days,
nights and weekends.
Dedicated is perhaps too weak of a word for the group
of guys and ladies that we have working here at Ajax.
Jim Wynn sent me a text one weekend at 8:30 in the
evening on a Saturday. I responded by asking if he ever
went home.
Sometimes the plants get frustrated with construction
and construction with the plants and the garage with
…. get the message. Instead of being frustrated when
things do not go the way we want, just know that most
everyone is going above and beyond to be the best
that they can be. There are just days when we have
such high expectations, that sometimes being the best
is simply not good enough. On those days, patience
and understanding is the key to success!
I spoke to Tim Gearheart early on a Saturday morning
and asked why he was working. He responded by
saying he had a goal to process 40,000 tons of recycle
for the month of September. Guess what? He and his
guys did it!
Ajax is blessed to have dedicated employees. These
are just two of the many. I can tell you stories about
Barney Dominguez and Andrew Kirkpatrick working
through the weekend to get electrical issues upgraded
in an effort to be on top of our game for the next shift.
Mickey Cox is taking calls and responding to emails
By Vince Hafeli
Vice President
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Equipment Management
Dan Maitland, Equipment Operations Manager, on the new plant loader
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the garage personnel. Maintain is a payroll work-order
software, similar to what the Ajax foremen use on their jobs,
except it’s tailored specifically for fleet management. B2W’s
Maintain program has improved Ajax’s efficiency as a whole
by creating an easy point, click, and slide method of
organizing work orders. Mechanics can quickly view their
work orders from the field, and then respond to their next
service call appropriately. Bottom line: more accountability,
better planning, and a streamlined process to get the job
done right.
By Dan Maitland
Equipment Operations Manager
his past year, Ajax has committed
itself to achieving a higher level of
efficiency within the Equipment
Department as a whole. By hiring an equipment
operations manager, Ajax set in place the groundwork for
freeing up other key shop personnel to do what they do
best… Keep equipment running! One way to minimize
equipment downtime is to be able to quickly communicate
and react to the needs of the job-site crews. Ajax has had the
“Skymail” phone system for a few years now, and it’s worked
great to responding to “911” calls from the field. This year
Ajax has improved upon the automated phone system in its
best practices to include not only just “911” calls from the
field, but also to encourage calling in basic repair/
maintenance requests as well. This helps to improve the level
of service, predictability, and scheduling of maintenance
needs as a whole for the company. The best part is, Ajax
crews spend less time explaining themselves to middlemen,
and more time focusing on moving on with their project.
Now how does the Ajax Equipment Department track all of
these incoming calls from the field and determine which
technician is to respond to the job? The answer is B2W.
2015 saw the introduction of B2W’s “Maintain” feature for
Arrival of new Roadtec paver for Ajax crews
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ARTBA 2015
Project Management Academy
Left to Right: Jason Prokopetz, Project Manager, Jayson Brown, Project Superintendent, Scott Gilliard, Project Manager
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Each module was delivered by a different person with
varying professional backgrounds and construction
experience. Throughout the class, twelve total
attendees from Oklahoma, Tennessee, Michigan,
Nevada and Florida shared means and methods of
road building regional to their particular place of
employment. Because of the wide range of locations,
differences in some aspects of the construction
processes i.e. weather, materials were tempered with
striking similarities, i.e., trucking issues, extensive
qualified subcontractors. In all, the experience lent
itself to not only strengthening our own professional
day-to-day activities, but also compare and contrast
techniques employed in different locales across the
nation.
ashington, D.C. - The American
Road & Transportation Builders
Association held their annual Project
Management Academy from March 9 th through 11th
in Washington, D.C. Throughout the course of 2-1/2
days, Jason Prokopetz (Ft. Myers Project Manager),
Jayson Brown (Tampa Project Superintendent) and
Scott Gilliard (North Venice Project Manager) were
able to take part in a wide range of presentations/
discussions including:







Client Relations
Ethics
Construction Documentation
Economics of Safety
Management & Leadership
Resource Management
Planning & Scheduling
By Jason Prokopetz
Project Manager
19
Safety Days 2015
S
ince our Ajax family continues to grow,
two separate Safety Day Meetings were held with 175
Tampa employees attending at the Shriners’ facility in
Tampa on Saturday, January 17, 2015. The North Venice and
Fort Myers employees attended Safety Day on Saturday, January
24, 2015, with 170 in attendance at the Cultural Center in Port
Charlotte.
Clay Collins, Equipment Manager, reviewed Ajax Equipment
Housekeeping; The Good, The Bad and The Ugly. The Safety
Committee Members gave an overview of Ajax’s pending and
closed claims and stressing how each claim affects us as a
company.
Throughout the morning session, one of the crowds’ favorite
was the safety questions asked by Omar Lopez or Mike Horan.
The Ajax employees that answered the questions correctly
were the recipient of cash distributed by either Vince Hafeli or
Mike Horan. This brought a measure of excitement, safety
awareness and competition between the employees.
The opening statement was presented by Mike Horan. He
reminded the employees about the Zero Injury Program,
emphasizing each employee should be making it a part of their
daily lives and support our strong Safety Program. Mike also
reviewed Ajax’s 2015 construction goals for the year.
Once the morning session wrapped up, the field employees
were free for the day. Management, supervisors and foremen
remained for lunch and continued their session on Ajax’s
expectations for foremen/project managers/superintendents,
construction and area managers along with other important
topics.
Mandy Kustra stressed the importance of maintaining a safe and
healthy workplace for all employees, free from recognized
hazards. As such, Ajax remains committed to continuous
improvements to reach that goal.
The morning session continued with keynote speakers, Omar
Lopez, Training Coordinator, from ARTBA (American Road and
Transportation Builders Association) sharing his vast knowledge
of roadway safety for construction workers, using the right
equipment, fall hazards, along with safely completing trench
work to avoid any excavation and trench related accidents.
As always, I want to constantly stress to each and every one of
you the importance of safety on the job. We hope you learn
and take a valuable lesson home from each Safety Day. We
realize you work incredibly hard at what you do, and we want
you to always keep safety in mind and stay safe!
Safety Leadership Team - Safety Committee Members
whose two year term ended on the team were presented with a
certificate for their dedication to safety. This included Pat
Sherman, Ezi Washington, Eric Green, Gary Schultz and Tyler
Bowser. With their departure, the new 2015 members on the
Safety Leadership Team are James Kidd, Andrew Kirkpatrick, Erica
Washington, Cody McEwen, Wes Moore, Josh Grunert, Curt
Selbak, Joseph Nagel and Terrance James. Cody McKeand, David
Reed and Andrew Kirkpatrick remain on the committee for
another year. Thanks again for your commitment to safety.
Update on Mentoring Program - Ajax introduced a
Mentoring Program in late 2013, which is a 90-day program
to learn the Ajax culture, safety practices and job skills
specific to their positions. Currently, there are twenty-nine
mentors in the program as follows:
Area 1 - Wally Cabral, Albert Dowling, Bob Popielarz,
Mike Schwabach, Vinny Ferrone, Chris Stewart, Henry Suggs,
Broderick Belvin
Area 2 - Lee Lamb, Chris Ance, Tommie Harris, Tim Smith,
Rickey Helsel
Area 3 - Aaron Ashley, Jose Rivera, John Lake, Darb Degroat,
Donnie Bullock, Richard, Brower, Eric Green, Keith Atwater,
Angel Salinas, Dana Martiello, Rene Cardona
Plant / Lab - Dianne Miller
Equipment Department - Glenn Pic, Russ Billings, Todd
Johnson, Anthony Cacano
By Mandy Kustra
Safety Manager
Gary Schultz, Eric Green, Mandy Kustra, Tyler Bowser, Ezi Washington,
David Reed, Patrick Sherman, Cody McKeand
20
North Venice, Area 1 & Fort Myers, Area 2
Safety Day - January 24, 2015
21
Tampa, Area 3 - Safety Day
January 17, 2015
22
Career Milestones
2015 Happy Anniversaries
Celebrating Years of Service - Congratulations Ajax Employees!
-
A
jax employees were recognized for their years of service during the Safety Day Meetings held in Tampa and Port
Charlotte in January 2015. We thank you for your shared sense of team spirit and hard work that have been the
leading light to countless successful projects. It is your sincerity, reliability and loyalty that has helped Ajax to be a
successful company.
30 Years
Mark Minich’s 30 Year Service Award
presented by Mike Horan
25 Years
20 Years
Shane Mobley
Trish Moore, Tom Daquanna, Paul McCabe
(Not shown – Ron Holman)
15 Years
10 Years
Lauren Taylor, John Long, Avis Fuqua, Roger Owens
(Not shown - Jose Garcia)
Mitch Hain, Austin Bastinelli, Dejan Vujakija, Felipe Jaramillo
23
5 Years
Ginger Johnson, Barney Dominguez, Timothy Smith, Dan Hunter
Diego Jaramillo, Charles Lindsay, Kevin Ricker
FTBA SCHOLARSHIP
AWARDED
NAPA SCHOLARSHIP
AWARDED
Congratulations to Mitchell
Owens! The Florida Transportation
Builders Association awarded Mitchell
Owens a four year scholarship for
$6,000 during the FTBA Annual
Convention held at The Naples Grande
Beach Resort in August 2015. Mitchell
entered the University of Florida this
fall and is working towards a degree in
Health Sciences.
Congratulations to
Elliott Kresse! Elliott was
informed by Lori Wolking, Vice
President of Meetings for the
National Asphalt Pavement
Association (NAPA), that the
Young Leaders Selection
Committee selected him to
receive the 2015-2016 Young Leaders Scholarship in the
amount of $5,000. This scholarship was established to assist
engineering students pursuing an education in Civil
Engineering. It is also specific to those with a focus in the
asphalt industry. Elliott stated, “It is an honor to receive this
award, and I look forward to meeting many people in the
asphalt industry from all around the country.”
Mitchell Owens is the son of Roger Owens, Project Manager at
the Ajax Tampa Office. Roger and his wife, Jill are very proud
of their son’s hard work and all he has accomplished through
the years!
Ajax wishes Mitchell the best of luck as he works towards his
goal.
On October 19-21, 2015, Elliott attended the Young
Leaders Conference held at the Waldorf Astoria in Orlando,
FL. He received his scholarship at the award ceremony on
October 19th during the Chairman's Reception.
FTBA, ACAF, SUCA and NUCA Scholarships are available to any
Florida resident that is a graduating high school senior and
whose parent(s) or legal guardian is a member of or is
employed by a company who is a member of the those
organizations. Visit the FTBA, ACAF, SUCA and NUCA websites
for details on the various scholarships available. In addition,
Ajax is pleased to help fund these various scholarship programs
through their Annual Ajax Golf Tournament.
Elliott started at Ajax on June 4, 2014 as a garage assistant
and was promoted on May 6, 2015 to engineer-intern for
the Area 2, Fort Myers office. Ajax wishes Elliott much
success at his career at Ajax, and as he works on achieving
his goal.
24
2015 PROMOTIONS & ACHIEVEMENTS
C
ongratulations to the following employees on their well-earned promotions and achievements!
Our success depends on people like you whose commitment, skills and positive attitude make great things happen.
FORT MYERS, AREA 2
Vince Hafeli, Vice President of Plants and
Materials has been elected to serve as the NAPA State
Director for Florida. Vince will now serve on the NAPA
Board and will represent all of the asphalt contractors in
the state of Florida. Congratulations to Vince in attaining
this important role. We wish him well in this position and
we are proud that one of our own can represent Florida.
Elliott Kresse - Promoted from garage assistant to
engineer-intern in May 2015.
Wilmer Maldonado - Promoted from laborer to MOT
foreman in September 2015.
TAMPA, AREA 3
NORTH VENICE , AREA 1
Scott Pittman - Promoted from area manager to vice
president In March 2015.
Bob Popielarz, Sr. - Promoted from paving foreman
to project superintendent in August 2015.
Jacob Gouveia - Promoted from screed operator to
paving foreman in July 2015.
Robbie Popielarz, II - Promoted from screed operator
to paving foreman in August 2015.
Tyler Taylor - Certified as a CDL, Class A driver.
Wesley Moore - Certified as a CDL, Class B driver.
Edgardo Garay-Hernandez - Promoted from concrete
finisher to concrete foreman in September 2015.
John Chaney - Promoted from broom operator to
distributor driver in September 2015.
Major Flowers - Promoted from loader operator to grade
foreman in October 2015.
Peter Walker - Promoted from laborer to roller
operator in October 2015.
Payton Ray - Promoted from laborer to concrete finisher
in November 2015
Robert Rondeau - Promoted from broom operator to
loader operator.
QUALITY CONTROL / PLANT PERSONNEL
Frankie Mancini - Promoted from plant loader operator
to quality control lab technician in October 2015.
Christopher Stewart - Promoted from grade foreman
to project superintendent in November 2015.
Scott Schermerhorn - Promoted from plant operator to
quality control lab technician in October 2015.
Phil Nace - Promoted from loader operator to grade
foreman in November 2015.
In memory of
Mark Kersey
1956 - 2015
Mark Kersey, Project Manager for North Venice, Area 1 passed away
September 3, 2015. Mark was hired in 2012 and was instrumental in the
success of the Area 1 Team projects. As the Senior Project Manager for
the past three years, his knowledge, positive attitude and great work
ethic was an inspiration to all that worked closely with him and knew
him. Mark was also a great mentor to our young engineers.
Mark’s great sense of humor, quick wit, fun loving
personality and dedication to Ajax will be greatly missed
by his Ajax family and friends. We will always have great
memories of Mark’s happy and memorable times at Ajax.
25
Ajax 2015
Health Screenings
R
oad map to a healthier lifestyle - Health
screenings are valuable tools for detecting, preventing and
treating dangerous health conditions. Ajax held four days of
free health screenings for their employees and spouses. The North
Venice office held their screenings on Friday, February 13th and
Saturday, February 28th with a total of 120 participants. The Fort
Myers office had 65 participants on Friday, February 20th, and the
Tampa office screened 131 participants on Friday, February 27,
2015. The nurses offered their expertise suggesting lifestyle
modifications related to nutrition and preventative measures to
make a difference in quality of life. An active, fulfilling lifestyle
doesn’t just happen. It takes planning, commitment and a smart
wellness strategy that can help ensure your continued health.
The sooner we embrace healthy changes, the more benefits we
reap. Research has provided a valuable road map to help us make
choices that will make a real difference in our health. It’s not what
age you are, but how well you age that has real significance to those
who are seeking a long, vital life. There are many resources
available to help you make a significant impact on your overall wellbeing at any age. What realistic and achievable wellness goals have
you set? Keep on top of your game and pave the way to better
health. Clearly stated goals provide focus and motivation for helping
you to be your healthy best. Also, taking an active role in your
medical care can save you money and time, as well as keep you
feeling better.
Jaimie, Victoria & Felipe Jaramillo, Ivonne Mitchell & Kathy Ferrone
We wish you many safe and healthy years!
Mike and Jackie Schwabach completing on-line health assessment
Henry Suggs, Erica Washington and Philip Nace
Abby Cabral, Steve Ayers, Betty Myers and Jerry Hunt
26
Jeff Mather and Matt Horan
Dana Martiello happy with her health screening results
Avery Clemmons and John Lake completing their online health risk assessments
Angel Salinas, Carlos Dennis and Devante Dennis
Joe Minich, Joe White and Barbara Hill
Robb Baker, John Duncan and Gary Wingate
Nurse Erica McCall & Nancy Bachop handling the administrative work
Gregory Ruffin reviewing results with nurse
27
Walt Fenning reviewing results with nurse
Alex Jones and John Taylor
2015 B2W Training Seminar
Becky Tchorz, Matt Horan, Bridget Burban, Kindra Taylor, Matt Desotell, Nathan Hassler, Ginger Johnson, Jim Friel, Jim Price
S
2015 B2W User Conference offered many opportunities
for users to share opinions and feedback within the
solutions center, in peer group meetings and one -onone with the developers.
anta Barbara, CA - On March 1st through
March 3rd, Jim Friel, Becky Tchorz and Dave
Cowper from Ajax Michigan and Matt Horan, Matt
Desotell, Jim Price, Nate Hassler and Ginger Johnson
from Ajax Florida attended the 2015 B2W User
Conference. The conference was held at Bacara Resort
and Spa in Santa Barbara, CA. The attendees
participated in hands-on and classroom style training for
Track, Maintain and Estimate.
Ajax’s attendance at the conference ensures that our
users can get the most out of the B2W Software
investment.
By Ginger Johnson
A/P Supervisor
28
14th Annual Ajax Charity
Golf Tournament
T
his most successful year yet!
T
he 14th Annual Ajax Golf Tournament once again was a huge success! Thank you to all who
participated, contributed and volunteered at this special yearly event. This year’s golf tournament was held on Saturday,
June 6, 2015, at the picturesque Bobcat Trail Golf Club in North Port .
Although the tee time was slightly cut short due to the thunder and lightning, the avid golf enthusiasts had a great round of
golf. We are happy to congratulate the Nortrax, Inc. team for coming in first place with participants Dave Walsh, Mark Miller and Ajax
employees Tim Gearheart and Curt Selbak. The second place winners consisted of Sunland Paving Co. participants Bobby Gross, Bobby
Gross Jr, Bobby Gross III, and Joshua Gross. Winning third place was the BMG Conveyor Services team with Robert Crotts and Pete
Delise along with Ajax employees Kyle Holmes and Mark Parrish. After the participants and volunteers enjoyed a delicious lunch
served by the professional Bobcat staff, Steve Ayers concluded the day’s event by presenting trophies to the winning team members
and announcing the lucky raffle winners.
And the golf team winners are……..
1st Place
Nortrax, Inc.
Curt Selbak, Dave Walsh,
Mark Miller, Tim Gearheart
2nd Place
Sunland Paving Co.
Bobby Gross Jr., Joshua Gross,
Bobby Gross, Sr., Brent Gross
29
3rd Place
BMG Conveyor Services
Robert Crotts, Kyle Holmes,
Mark Parrish, Pete Delise
Matt Horan, Chris Bobas, Mike Curle, John Savage
Paul McCabe, Lee Strauss, Joe White
Steve Ayers and Dave Walsh
Congratulations to all the winners of the fantastic grand prizes and wide variety of door prizes which
were raffled after lunch. Larry Dorigo won the five pre-season Bucs game tickets which were donated by Ajax. Dave
Walsh won the ipad. John Savage won a golf foursome at the River Club along with a $50 Bass Pro gift card donated by
Shendell & Pollock, P.L., and a backpack donated by Flagler. Curt Selbak was the lucky winner of two grand prizes
which included rounds of golf at the River Strand Golf and Country Club and Sarasota National Golf Club along with
two golf umbrellas which were one of many contributions by Flagler Construction Equipment, Inc. We had a 50/50
cash raffle with the winner receiving $365. A great big thanks to those who generously donated the many awesome
grand and door prizes!
Thank you volunteers - without your efforts we could not have
put on such a successful event! Steve Ayers did an outstanding job
organizing our yearly event. We also would like to acknowledge our volunteers who
worked tirelessly at the golf tournament. We appreciate your dedication in making
this another huge success. Special thanks to Rickie Markle, Ginger Johnson and her
daughter Hannah, Dan Sardella, Ingrid Delaney, and Jeannie Wanner. Christie
Alvaro and her daughter, Cate along with girl scout friends, Bianca Carey and
Krizelle Garcia. Gary Shaw, Nortrax, Inc. was a great help selling many raffle tickets.
Mark Minich and Steve Ayers manned the drink station with margaritas being a big
hit on that hot summer day. A big thanks goes out to Ernie McFarland for the
awesome pictures he took of this special event. We also enjoyed Bill McKeand’s
visit. Bill had successfully organized Ajax’s yearly golf tournaments from its
inception in 2002 through 2011. Vince Hafeli and Bill spent the morning enjoying
the day and visiting with old friends.
Bill McKeand and Vince Hafeli
Mark Minich and Steve Ayers
Front: Bill McKeand, Ingrid Delaney, Ginger Johnson
Back: Bianca Carey, Cate Alvaro, Rickie Markle, Christie Alvaro, Gary Shaw, Hannah Mace, Krizelle Garcia
30
Thank You Sponsers & Partipants!
Thank you for your tremendous support!
Ajax would like to acknowledge the organizations and
individuals who significantly made an impact on the
success of this year’s golf tournament. Please support
the businesses that sponsored this fun and exciting event!
***
PLATINUM SPONSORS ***
Ajax Paving Industries of Florida, LLC
Bobcat Trail Golf & Country Club
BMG Conveyor Services
Flagler Construction Equipment, LLC
McShea Contracting, LLC
Nortrax, Inc.
Palmer Ranch
River Strand Golf & Country Club
Roadtec
Sarasota National Golf Club
Shell Bitumen
GOLD SPONSORS
DuraSeal, a Division of Rose Paving Co.
Express Employment Professionals
Gardner Asphalt Supply
Iron Planet
TOURNAMENT SPONSORS
Advanced Asphalt of SW Florida, Inc.
Callaghan Tire
Coastal Precast of Florida, Inc.
David Nelson Construction Company
E.R. Jahna Industries, Inc.
Farr, Farr, Emerich, Hackett and Carr, P.A.
Ferguson Enterprises, Inc.
Gator Water Analysis & Treatment , Inc.
G.S. Equipment, Inc.
Guy, Hurley, Blaser & Heuer, LLC
Hazeltine Nurseries, Inc.
Interconn Resources
Leware Construction Co. of Florida, Inc.
Linder Industrial Machinery Company
Lomski Engineering and Testing, Inc.
Marathon Petroleum Company
Martin Marietta Materials
Matthews-Currie Ford
Mobil Arc Welding & Fabrication, Inc.
MWV - Meadwestvaco Corporation
Ongrade Contracting, Inc.
Pavement Maintenance, LLC
Rapid Trucking, LLC
Ring Power Corporation
Suncoast Paving, Inc.
Proceeds Benefit Many Charities
Ajax has raised money to help local charities and
organizations for fourteen years, and we are excited to
report this year’s golf event allowed Ajax to distribute
$22,000 as noted below.
$1,000
$1,000
$1,000
$1,000
$1,000
$1,000
$1,000
$1,000
$1,000
$1,000
$1,000
$1,000
$1,000
$ 500
$ 500
$ 500
$ 500
$ 500
$ 500
$ 500
$ 500
$ 500
$ 500
$ 500
$ 500
$ 500
$ 500
$ 500
$ 500
$ 500
$ 500
ACAF Scholarship
FTBA Scholarship
SUCA Scholarship
All Children’s Hospital Foundation - St. Petersburg
Care Net Manasota
Habitat for Humanity of Hillsborough County FL
Habitat for Humanity South Sarasota County, Inc.
Lee Building Industry Association Builders Care
Make a Wish Foundation - Tampa
Moffitt Cancer Center Foundation - Tampa
Our Mother’s House - Venice
United Way of Lee, Hendry, Glades
YMCA - Charlotte County
Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Suncoast
Boys & Girls Clubs of Sarasota County
Boys & Girls Clubs of Tampa Bay
Disabled American Veterans - Port Charlotte
Hillsborough County Firefighters Charities, Inc.
Saluting Our Military and Veterans
Hope Hospice and Community Services-Fort Myers
Lupas Foundation of America
National Multiple Sclerosis Society - Maitland
Police Athletic League of Tampa
Salvation Army - Tampa
Salvation Army - Venice
Sheriff’s Activities League of Sarasota County
Suncoast Foundation for Handicapped Children
Tiny Hands Foundation - Sarasota
Wounded Warriors Project
YMCA of Southwest Florida - Venice
YMCA - Naples
HOLE SPONSORS
AngleRight Surveying, LLC
Bob’s Barricades, Inc.
C-Squared Certified General Contractor, Inc.
Curb Systems of SW Florida & Sarasota, LLC
Crushing, Inc.
Dave, Heather, Noah & Nathan Reid
Eric’s Painting & Decorating, Inc.
Florida Safety Contractors, Inc.
Florida Transportation Builders’ Association
Guymann Construction of Florida, Inc.
Jason’s Hauling, Inc.
Keeton’s Office & Art Supply Company
Kelly Tractor Company
Lee Mar Building & Construction Corp.
Lengemann Corporation
Lovin Construction
Marc Young
MSB Services, LLC
MSI - Morgan Schmid, Inc.
National Carpet Cleaning
Nature’s Path Supplements
Owen-Ames-Kimball Company
Palmdale Oil Company, Inc.
Professional Concrete, Inc.
Protective Barriers, LLC
R. H. Moore & Associates, Inc.
Stepp’s Towing Service Tampa, Inc.
Verified Label & Print, Inc.
31
DOOR PRIZE SPONSORS
Advanced Asphalt of SW Florida, LLC
Ajax Paving Industries of Florida, LLC
BB&T Bank
BMG Conveyor Services
Bobbi Jo Forman
David & Deicy Spennachio
Flagler Construction Equipment, LLC
Golfsmith
Iron Planet
Kate’s Enviro Fencing, Inc.
McShea Contracting, LLC
Nortrax, Inc.
Ring Power Corporation
Roadtec
Safety Products
Sam’s Club - Sarasota
Sharky’s on the Pier/Fins/Snook Haven
Shell Bitumen
Shendell & Pollock, P.L.
Steele Truck Center, Inc.
Venice Print Center
Walters, Levine, Klingensmith &
Thomison, P.A.
Wantman Group, Inc.
Winzer
Golf Photo
Gallery
Photographs by Ernie McFarland
2015
32
33
34
Honoring Our Ajax Family Members
Serving Our Country
Thank you to all who have served and are currently serving in our military. The sacrifices you
have made and are making in honor and duty to our country are worthy of praise. You truly
are American heroes! We value and appreciate everything you do.
Mike Woody, Project Manager
for Ajax North Venice, Area 1, was
recalled to active duty in August
2015, for approximately one year
and is currently serving overseas.
Brandon Hafeli, left the Ajax family
on September 19, 2011, to become a
member of the United States Army as a
Calvary Scout and was deployed to Egypt
in late August 2013. After serving and
promoted several times, Brandon was
honorably discharged as a Specialist on
October 3, 2014.
Ajax Family,
A big hello from 6,000 miles away
and hoping that you are all doing
well. With the continued rise of ISIS/ISIL, other terrorist
organizations, and the recent terrorist attacks in Paris, the
mission of the U.S. military and militaries of our world partners
is crucial to fighting the disease of extremist movements. My
recall to active duty is in direct support of this mission. It is
comforting to know that my Ajax family and Ajax leadership
fully support the duty that I am performing. I look forward to
returning back to Venice at the end of next summer. A big
thank you from me to all my coworkers who have had to fill-in
during my absence. Take care all.
Sincerely,
Mike Woody
Commander, United States Navy
Brandon is working for Ajax as a project superintendent in
Tampa, Area 3 on the Hillsborough County and Pinellas County
contracts. Brandon is Vice President Vince Hafeli’s son.
Justine Bannan joined the Army
National Guard in January of 2010. She is a
Combat Medic and is currently stationed in
Sarasota, Florida. Justine is the wife of Colin
Bannan who is the flow boy driver for Ajax
Fort Myers, Area 2. Justine is also the
daughter of Operations Manager Robert Ray
and his wife, Joy.
Mike Woody is the son-in-law of President Mike Horan and his
wife, Carol and brother-in-law to Project Manager Matt Horan.
Jared Delaney joined the U.S. Air
Force in 2005 and was honorably
discharged in 2012. While working for
Northrop Grumman, he joined the Air
Force Reserve, and was promoted to
Major in November 2015. He is assigned
to the 19th Space Operation Squadron
and is currently serving at Schriever Air
Force Base in Colorado Springs, CO. In August 2015, Jared
served in South Korea for three weeks. Jared is the son of
Office Manager Ingrid Delaney and her husband, Bob.
Todd Moore enlisted in the U.S. Air Force
on September 1994, and is currently
stationed in Utah at Hill Air Force Base. He is
an Air Force Central Command Manager,
Master Sergeant.
Todd is the nephew of Scott Gilliard, Project
Manager for North Venice, Area 1.
Derek Ayers enlisted in the Corpsman
Program of the Navy Reserve in 2009 and
transferred to the Seabees Program of the
Navy Reserve in 2011. Currently, Derek is
the Safety Director with T5 Unit based in
Great Lakes, Illinois and completed his
two weeks annual training in South Korea
in July 2015 with the Military Police.
Cheyenne Richards joined the U.S.
Marine Corps on October 13, 2015, shortly after
graduating from Largo High School on June 1,
2015. Currently, she is stationed in Parris Island,
South Carolina. Cheyenne Richards is the
daughter of Robin Richards, Ajax distributor
driver for Tampa, Area 3 and his wife, Kimberly.
Derek lives in Chicago and is Area Manager Steve Ayers’ son.
Patrick Sherman finished his four years in the United
States Marine Corp. as a Reconnaissance Man and Parachutist
from July 2009 to February 2013 and fought in Afghanistan.
Patrick started his employment with Ajax on April 8, 2013 and is
currently working on Wally Cabral’s crew as a broom operator.
35
Gator Patrick’s
Retirement
As you look back on your life’s work, and see all the good you’ve done, we wish
you a wonderful retirement as a reward for a job well done. Wishing you the best
of everything as you retire!
S
nook Haven, Venice - It was a blast and many
co-workers and friends came out to celebrate
Gator’s Retirement Party on April 25, 2015, sharing in the
festivities and their memories of Gator and his years at Ajax. Mike Horan
shared special sentiments about Gator’s dedication to Ajax and their
friendship through the years.
“Congratulations on working over 43 years in the asphalt paving industry. You are an
inspiration to many people because of your zest for life, family, work and friendship. From
the first day you arrived in Florida, we became a team. Our team evolved over the years
with adding many members and surviving many ups and downs. But the trust and friendship
you and I developed never wavered, not once. You have been instrumental to our success,
our culture, and most importantly, our reputation. We would not be the company we are
today without your outstanding effort, leadership and dedication.
More importantly Gator, you taught us all that our industry is not just about building plants,
highways, and parking lots, but more about building relationships. You are the standard in
that regard that the rest of us aspire too. You started out as a laborer in 1970 with our
Michigan brothers, and today retire as a well-deserved vice president. Through your
contacts, friendships, and your abundant people skills, you have maneuvered yourself
around many leaders and decision makers in the paving industry, yet you have never
forgotten your roots with the men and women in the field. Actually, you were always at
your best when surrounded by the crew. That is a quality that I respect and have tried to
emulate.
Ajax Paving Industries has been your life, and the company has prospered and grown
because of you. Few understand the work we do better than you, nor have they experienced
the hot days, cold nights, hurricanes, and heavy rain and wind you have endured to
complete a job. Thanks for teaching our young the business and mentoring them the quality
culture we strive for each day. Thanks for being an inspiration to all of us and how important
it is to dedicate your life to a company, a business and the people around you for the good
of all.
On a personal note, you will always be my friend. I can’t ever thank you enough for all you
did for me personally and for the company. Your family at Ajax wishes the very best to
Suzanne and you in retirement. Again, congratulations and may the Travel Gods watch over
you both.”
36
Take Your Children To Work Day
North Venice, FL - On Thursday, April 23, 2015, Ginger Johnson brought her daughter, Hannah to work and Jason Wescoat
brought his daughter, Ava to the North Venice office to experience a typical day at the office. Ginger put her daughter to work
sorting and copying while educating Hannah on the work involved as an accounts payable supervisor. Ava helped her dad, Jason
Wescoat, Controller, and then assisted Bobbi Jo Forman with filing and other various duties.
Jason Wescoat, Controller and his daughter, Ava
Ava helping Bobbi Jo Forman
37
Ginger Johnson and daughter, Hannah
Gettin’ Nothin’ Butt Sauced
"Gettin' Nothin' Butt
Sauced" is the name the
Tampa group came up
with for the Ajax BBQ
team. The idea of putting
together a BBQ team was loosely
floated around in one of our weekly
production meetings, and Shane
Mobley's eyes lit up like a grill on
Saturday afternoon. Dale Purcell
then chimed in with his interest in
cooking, not to mention the fact
that he has a very nice Smoker,
which became the grill of choice for
the team. Last, but not least, John
Savage heard word of a BBQ team
forming and threw his hat into the
pit to round out the cook team.
Now with the team formed, the
next step was to use the experience
of the cook team, coupled with
input from the Tampa Taste
Experts, to come up with some top
notch BBQ. Of course, the only way
to get this done was to start
cooking. The first cook gave the
taste testers a chance to critique
the quality of cooking. Everyone
sampled ribs, pulled pork and
brisket. There was not much to
critique on the tenderness of the
meat, it was excellent! What did
come out of the first cook, was a
consensus to create a rub/flavor
that didn't come off the shelf. We
were looking for a flavor that
separated our meat from the
average weekend cook. So, for the
second cook, the Tampa Taste
Experts submitted their best
homemade rub. A handful of
different styles came in. Each rub
was placed on its own rack of ribs,
followed by a blind taste test to find
the best of the bunch. The votes
were tallied, and we had a
unanimous winner. The team was
now ready for competition.
The City of Pinellas Park was the
first stop. Each year they put on a
BBQ competition that gives back to
the local community. Entry was
free, but each team in the contest
was required to cook multiple pork
butts for the City to sell to event
attendees with all the monies raised
going to the local charities. This was
the first chance "Gettin' Nothin'
Butt Sauced" competed in an
officially judged competition. There
were 22 teams being graded in two
different categories, ribs and pork.
Unfortunately, only the top three
winners in each category were
announced, so the team didn't
know exactly where they finished,
but more importantly it was a good
learning experience for the rookies
to work on their timing and
presentation.
Finally, after putting all their time
into preparing for the big event, the
day arrived. It was Saturday,
October 24 at the 5th Annual Pig Jig
in Downtown Tampa on the river at
Curtis Hixon Park. There were
nearly 50 teams competing in the
event with thousands of patrons in
attendance looking to enjoy the
nice weather, live bands and some
delicious food. Our team was
competing in all four categories;
ribs, pork, brisket and a mystery
turn in. For the mystery item, John
Savage came up with the creative
idea of putting homemade
macaroni and cheese in a waffle
iron, topping it with bacon and
diced Jalapeños, then pressing it
until the cheese crusted over with
the finished product looking just
like a waffle. As if that wasn't
enough, it was served with a side of
maple syrup for dipping; probably
should have been a baby aspirin
instead of the syrup! Needless to
say, it was a big hit with all our
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guests! Below are the official
results of our team’s finish in the
Pig Jig. The two numbers represent
total points scored by the six
judges, followed by their ranking
out of 49 teams in parenthesis:
Ribs = 34 (22nd)
Wildcard = 41.5 (10th)
Pork = 46.5 (11th)
Brisket = 45 (10th)
OVERALL = 167 (8th)
Overall, 8th place finish is an
outstanding result for any of the 49
teams participating in the Pig Jig,
but an amazing result for a team
that has only been together for a
couple of months. It was a very
successful event and a big thanks
goes out to Shane Mobley, John
Savage and Dale Purcell for
representing Ajax so well and for all
their hard work, as it truly is a labor
of love. We also want to thank the
40+ customers and guests that
came out to support the team. A
great time was had by everyone!
By Scott Pittman
Vice President
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We’ve
Got
Mail
HEARTFELT THANKS
A
jax receives many poignant thank you letters for our contributions to various organizations. We wanted to share a few of
these special letters.
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T
Lowry Park Zoo
ampa, FL - Ajax Paving Industries invited all their employees and their
spouse/significant other and children to enjoy a fun-filled day at the Lowry
Park Zoo on Saturday, November 21, 2015. As you can see from the smiling
faces, the event was a big hit, and Ajax had a great turnout. Adults, and especially the
children, enjoyed observing the many animals, mechanical rides, petting zoo and
water play area for the children. The buffet lunch, which was served in the Safari
Lodge, was in two shifts to accommodate the many people that attended. There was
plenty of food which included hamburgers, hot dogs, potato salad, mixed green salad,
baked beans, beverages and dessert.
During the day as you
roamed the zoo grounds,
you had the opportunity to
visit with many of your
coworkers and meet their
families. It was a fun-filled
and enjoyable time at the
Lowry Park Zoo as many
had commented to Mike.
A big thanks to Mike Horan,
for sponsoring this special
event!
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Lowry Park Zoo
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After a exciting day at the zoo.
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Wow - Look Who Has Arrived!
A new baby is like the beginning of new things, wonder, hope, a dream of possibilities.
Sophia Anne Reynolds
Deacon Ray Rivers
Clay and Beverly Collins’
daughter, Brandy and her
husband, Jesse celebrated
the birth of Jace. He was
born on December 3, 2014,
weighed 10 lbs., 11 ounces.
Clay Collins is the equipment
manager at the North Venice
shop.
Rusty and Diane Reynolds
celebrated the adoption of
Sophia. She was born on
June 24, 2014, weighed 6 lbs.,
12 ounces.
Rusty Reynolds is the regional
asphalt plant manager at the
Ajax Punta Gorda Plant.
Arthur and Jessica Rivers
celebrated the birth of their
son, Deacon. He was born on
January 15, 2015, weighed
7 lbs., 7 ounces.
Arthur Rivers is the loader
operator at the Ajax North
Venice Plant.
Emersyn Grace Delaney
Liliana Grace Santiago
Jace Scout Sheldon
Ingrid and Bob Delaney’s
son, Eric and his wife, Nicole
celebrated the birth of
Emersyn. She was born on
June 15, 2015, weighed
4 lbs., 15 ounces.
Ingrid Delaney is the office
manager in the North
Venice office.
Chuck and Beth Matukaitis’
daughter, Nicole and her
husband, Dominic celebrated
the birth of Liliana. She was
born on August 20, 2015, and
weighed 5 lbs., 5 ounces.
Chuck Matukaitis is the truck
superintendent for Ajax.
Kinlee Jaye Hassenzahl
Courtney and Richie
Hassenzahl celebrated the
birth of their daughter,
Kinlee. She was born on
June 10, 2015, weighed
8 lbs., 13 ounces.
Courtney Hassenzahl is the
engineer intern in the Fort
Myers office.
Brynn Noelle Hassler
Isabella Faith Rodriguez
Nathan and Lindsay Hassler
celebrated the birth of
their daughter, Brynn. She
was born on June 18, 2015,
weighed 8 lbs., 12 ounces.
Nathan Hassler is an Ajax
project superintendent for
North Venice, Area 1.
Chuck and Beth Matukaitis’
daughter, Katie and her
husband, Alberto
celebrated the birth of
Isabella. She was born on
September 30, 2015,
weighed 8 lbs., 5 ounces
Lavand John Gillespie
Madison Danielle Mancini
Jamie Simmons and Bob Radcliff’s daughter,
Nicole and her husband, Nat celebrated the
birth of Lavand. He was born on November
4, 2015, weighed 6 lbs., 5 ounces.
Jamie Simmons works in the Ajax North
Venice office as accounts payable supervisor.
Frank and Savannah Mancini celebrated
the birth of their daughter, Madison. She
was born on March 30, 2015, weighed
6 lbs., 11 ounces.
Frank Mancini works in the Ajax North
Venice Lab as quality control technician.
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Ajax Paving Industries of Florida, LLC
NORTH VENICE OFFICE
One Ajax Drive
North Venice, FL 34275
941.486.3600
941.486.3500 Fax
FORT MYERS OFFICE
13350 Rickenbacker Pkwy
Fort Myers, FL 33913
239.936.9444
239.936.9445 Fax
TAMPA OFFICE
5100 West Lemon Street, Suite 106
Tampa, FL 33609
813.769.1990
813.769.1991 Fax
HOT-MIX ASPHALT PLANTS
NORTH VENICE PLANT 1
FORT MYERS PLANT 4
One Ajax Drive
North Venice, FL 34275
941.486.3420 Tower
941.486.8771 Fax
7121 Pennsylvania Street
Fort Myers, FL 33912
239.489.3320 Tower
239.489.9973 Fax
PUNTA GORDA PLANT 2
40851 Cook Brown Road
Punta Gorda, FL 33982
239.543.4544 Tower
239.543.1105 Fax
ODESSA PLANT 5
11603 S.R. 54
Odessa, FL 33556
727.375.5780 Tower
727.375.5750 Fax
PORT MANATEE PLANT 3
12165 U.S. 41 North
Palmetto, FL 34221
941.845.1138 Tower
941.721.3155 Fax
TAMPA PLANT 6
6050 Jensen Road
Tampa, FL 33619
813.574.8331 Tower
813.574.8334 Fax
LARGO PLANT 7
1550 Starkey Road
Largo, FL 33771
727.499.2168 Tower
727.499.2169 Fax
www.ajaxpaving.com
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AjaxPaving.com
OFFICES:
North Venice:
Fort Myers:
Tampa:
941.486.3600
239.936.9444
813.769.1990
PLANT LOCATIONS:
North Venice:
941.486.3420
Punta Gorda:
239.543.4544
Port Manatee:
941.845.1138
Largo:
727.499.2168
Fort Myers:
Odessa:
Tampa:
NAPA DIAMOND
ACHIEVEMENT AWARD
239.489.3320
727.375.5780
813.574.8331
NAPA DIAMOND
QUALITY AWARD
Corporate Core Beliefs & Values
To achieve our Mission, we encourage….
�
Customer Focus
�
High Achievement
�
Teamwork
�
Sense of Urgency
�
Innovation
�
Do What You Say You Will Do
�
Risk Taking
�
Safe Work Practices
�
High Energy
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MISSION STATEMENT
Our mission is to provide construction services and products which,
when measured, exceed customers’ expectations.
An Ajax publication by the employees.
Thanks to our employees whose great attitude and superior work performance
make Ajax such a great place to work!
Ajax Paving Industries of Florida, LLC
One Ajax Drive
North Venice, FL 34275
941.486.3600
www.ajaxpaving.com