The Doorknocker | Issue 34

3RD QUARTER 2023 | ISSUE 34

A Company-wide News Magazine From The Cook & Boardman Group, LLC

The 2023 Wyndham Championship Greensboro, North Carolina

In This issue

BlueViolet Networks’ Access Control Project with Paramount USD

pg. 8

1 Rich history and relationships at the Wyndham Championship pg. 14

Paramount United School District in Paramount, CA

Features

Inventory Preparation

Don’t wait until the eleventh hour! 25 07 Stand Out Performance

Continuous Improvement Reaching for a Common Goal

The 17th Green Wyndham Golf Tournament Recap 14

Congratulations to Cook & Boardman in Simpsonville, SC for being named our 2023 Branch of the Quarter for Q3

This is an incredibly exciting time in the history of our company. We have achieved unprecedented heights in our industry and that affords us the opportunity to do things that have never been done before. We will continue to grow, but we need to focus now on finding ways to use our size and scale to improve our profitability. Revenue alone is not a great measure of success. Generating healthy profit margins is what enables us to reinvest in all of you - from expanded training programs, to higher 401(k) matches, to absorbing more of the increases in health insurance. As revenue grows so do our overall costs, but improving our margins (which is a measure of the profit on every dollar of revenue) gives us the flexibility to enhance many of the things that impact you every day. There is nothing permanent except change. Those aren’t my words, they are from an ancient Greek philosopher writing over 2,000 years ago, but they are just as true today. Cook & Boardman is doing well - and some of our locations are fantastic - but so are most of our competitors. If we want to be the best, we have to keep improving and become better every day. You’ve heard the leadership team talk a lot about continuous improvement recently. You’ll hear that a lot as we move forward, but it really starts with each of you. Just because we’ve been doing something a certain way for a long time doesn’t mean there isn’t a better way. That is true for every role in the organization, and starts with the executive team. That’s why we’ve made a big change to align the branch organization under Joe Harrell and create an entirely new sales function under Brian Thomas.

We’ve never had focused sales leadership in C&B and while this won’t change the reporting structure for salespeople in the field, it should provide a level of support, best-practice sharing and functional advocacy that we have not had before. With our Districts structured fully along geographic lines, we hope to simplify collaboration and provide our customers with unparalleled access to our full suite of products and services. You’ll continue to see other initiatives in the coming months to help you be more efficient and effective. Our single biggest challenge - currently and in the foreseeable future - will be finding enough talented people like all of you. We sell a lot of products and provide a lot of services, but what defines our company is you. If we can provide the best training, the best operational tools and the best opportunities for all of our team members, we will achieve our goals and create a truly unique company providing comprehensive safety and security solutions for our communities. I’m very grateful to the entire leadership team for their support over the past few months, and to each of you for continuing to drive the business forward. I’m excited to see what we can accomplish together. Wishing you all a happy, healthy and joyous holiday season.

Departments

Employee Health and Wellness “Health & Wellness Survey” Your Feedback & Our Responses Employee Training CBG University Training: District Manager Leadership Experience

Risk Management The Pillars of Protection Operations The Importance of Early Inventory Preparation

A Message From the CEO Continuous Improvement IT Services Enjoy Safe Scanning Human Resources Celebrating Employee Anniversaries

05 06

In Every Issue

18 20

Project Highlight Paramount Access Control Project in Paramount, CA Company Events A look at what has been happening across the C&B group of companies

A Day in the Life of... HR, Payroll, and HRIS Manager Supplier Spotlight Best-selling collections from VT Industries Employee News Contributions from our Associates

Hall of Famers Recognizing our long-time employees SERVE Award Recipients Big Wins Listing Projects awarded totaling $500K+

24 26

David Eisner Chief Executive Officer

Editorial Staff: Melissa Krouse, Amber Hagan | Graphic Design: Amber Hagan, Jil Quinn | Editorial Board: Melissa Krouse, Emily Towery, Katie Eure | Contributors: David Eisner, Bill Hickox, Rafael Cohen, Randy Toma (BlueViolet Networks), Amber Hagan, Emily Towery, Stephanie Rossomano, Lou Andruzzi, Craig LaMontagne, Stephanie Colby | Printed & Distributed by: Kendrick Graphics, Columbia, SC The Doorknocker is a quarterly company newsletter for employees of The Cook & Boardman Group, LLC, headquartered at 3064 Salem Industrial Drive, Winston-Salem, NC 27127. All images are used with permission.

What is RMR? Adding Value & Opportunities for our Customers

Most of us participate in this model as a consumer without thinking much about it. Think about buying the following everyday products that rely on the RMR model: • Printer Ink

Most people may not be familiar with the acronym ‘RMR.” It stands for Recurring Monthly Revenue, and more specifically, is predictable revenue generated monthly from active subscriptions for goods and/ or services. In the Security Integration space, RMR consists of value added services that are provided for customers for a monthly investment including: • Service Plans/Maintenance Agreements • Software Support Plans • Managed Services: • Managed Access Control • Managed Video Surveillance

• Refrigerator water filters • Replacement razor blades • Netflix

The opportunity for developing RMR also exists within our Division 8 business and is currently happening in specific cases focused on things like break/fix service plans; however, this can also expand to include preventative maintenance inspections and door operator maintenance. There are RMR opportunities all around us, and customers have become accustomed to paying for them provided they add value. As Cook and Boardman continues to grow, RMR will be a critical component of that growth. The ask for each employee is simple: Think to yourself, “what can we do better than anyone else that adds value for our customers?”

• Intrusion/Fire Alarm Monitoring • Security Device Health Monitoring • Inspections

By adding RMR to a regular installation job, we are not only successful in implementing a solution for a customer, but we are establishing an ongoing relationship that will result in repeat business for years to come. Through RMR, there is a guaranteed touch point on a regular basis with customers, which puts us front of mind, resulting in a more consultative relationship and creates additional opportunities. It’s been proven that customers, out of loyalty, will continue to buy from partners they are already engaged with - versus going to a competitor. This generates repeat business with less effort than finding new customers. The margins on RMR are historically much higher than one-time installations. Not only are we enhancing the value that we are providing to our customers, which is paramount, but there is also a financial benefit. RMR is not limited to only the Security Integration industry. Most businesses have a recurring model established to ensure future business and sales.

Bill Hickox Vice President of Operations, Security Integration

2023 40 YEARS • Deborah Cox | 09/15/1983 | 480 - Cary, NC 35 YEARS • Timothy Bahm | 09/08/1988 | 680 - Victoria, TX 30 YEARS • Robert Bell | 09/28/1993 | 670 - Dallas, TX 25 YEARS • David Parker | 07/20/1998 | 480 - Cary, NC • Michael Bosco | 08/30/1998 | 380 - Riviera Beach, FL • Lori White | 09/22/1998 | 480 - Cary, NC • Jody Alfano | 09/28/1998 | 300 - Birmingham, A L 15 YEARS • Luther James | 01/01/2008 | 455 - Rockville, MD • Cherilin McElwain | 01/07/2008 | 300 - Birmingham, AL • Herve Morini | 01/28/2008 | 120 - Winston Salem, NC • Christine Petrov | 02/18/2008 | 190 - Corporate - HQ • Keith Burt | 03/17/2008 | 480 - Cary, NC • Tina Melberg | 04/09/2008 | 490 - Corporate - MA Region • Robert Patterson | 04/14/2008 | 140 - Columbia, SC • Gary Tubbs | 05/05/2008 | 192 - Corporate - SE Region • Clint Sweatt | 05/12/2008 | 305 - Tuscaloosa, AL • Donna Sullivan | 05/12/2008 | 457 - Frederick, MD • Vasile Matei | 05/19/2008 | 600 - Wheeling, IL • William Hill | 05/19/2008 | 305 - Tuscaloosa, AL • Cameron Galbreath | 05/20/2008 | 720 - AC - Dover, DE • Daniel Mockabee | 05/22/2008 | 457 - Frederick, MD • Kathy Topham | 05/27/2008 | 670 - Dallas, TX

• Stephen Bickelhaupt | 11/04/2013 | 360 - Tampa, FL • Anthony Calabrese | 11/11/2013 | 600 - Wheeling, IL 5 YEARS • Kirk Moldstad | 01/02/2018 | 475 - Pittsburgh, PA • Anna Opacian | 01/05/2018 | 350 - Seminole, FL • Edgardo Rondon | 01/08/2018 | 457 - Frederick, MD • Tabitha Killoran | 01/08/2018 | 740 - AC - San Antonio, TX • Douglas Lilly | 01/22/2018 | 720 - AC - Dover, DE • Jason Stallard | 01/22/2018 | 620 - Bedford Heights, OH • Ivan Ojeda | 01/29/2018 | 680 - Victoria, TX • Laura Kelly | 01/29/2018 | 461 - Wilmington, DE • Daniel Monroe | 02/05/2018 | 470 - Erie, PA • Leah Mort | 02/12/2018 | 457 - Frederick, MD • James Hertkorn | 02/15/2018 | 440 - Philadelphia, PA • Kurt Faulkner | 02/19/2018 | 165 - Nashville, TN • Michael Musick | 02/19/2018 | 720 - AC - Dover, DE • Oscar Lira | 02/19/2018 | 740 - AC - San Antonio, TX • Leonard Matthew | 02/21/2018 | 702 - AC - Greenville, SC • Christopher Smith | 02/26/2018 | 720 - AC - Dover, DE • Kristian Grimes | 02/26/2018 | 705 - AC - Raleigh, NC • John Atkins | 02/27/2018 | 600 - Wheeling, IL • Derrick Weller | 03/05/2018 | 457 - Frederick, MD • Devon Sylvester | 03/12/2018 | 165 - Nashville, TN • Matthew Pierce | 03/12/2018 | 600 - Wheeling, IL • Paul Walters | 03/12/2018 | 702 - AC - Greenville, SC • Rebecca DeMunda Nerstrom | 03/12/2018 | 600 - Wheeling, IL • Timothy Wickenheiser | 03/12/2018 | 465 - Lancaster, PA • Dawn Haupt | 03/15/2018 | 460 - Bellefonte, PA • Anthony Gruich | 03/26/2018 | 466 - Gordonville, PA • Christopher Hains | 03/26/2018 | 490 - Corporate - MA Region • Jean Jacques Volcy | 03/26/2018 | 380 - Riviera Beach, FL • Gary McDonald | 04/02/2018 | 380 - Riviera Beach, FL • Kasherrie Peterson | 04/02/2018 | 700 - AC-Irmo, SC • Richard Bryant | 04/02/2018 | 702 - AC - Greenville, SC • William Stell | 04/02/2018 | 310 - Florence, AL • Joseph Irick | 04/05/2018 | 452 - Alexandria, VA • Christoffer Kendrick | 04/09/2018 | 480 - Cary, NC • Jeffrey Pettyjohn | 04/16/2018 | 260 - Portland, ME • Rick Rhea | 04/17/2018 | 670 - Dallas, TX • Kenneth Domurot | 04/18/2018 | 455 - Rockville, MD • Christopher Cassara | 04/19/2018 | 381 - Denton, TX • Aaron Schwab | 04/20/2018 | 165 - Nashville, TN • Carl Bedenbaugh | 04/23/2018 | 190 - Corporate - HQ • Jamie Stewart | 04/23/2018 | 610 - Akron, OH • Dylan Crenshaw | 04/25/2018 | 165 - Nashville, TN • Joe Fazio | 05/07/2018 | 461 - Wilmington, DE • Marlon Moreno | 05/07/2018 | 380 - Riviera Beach, FL • Gilberto Rivera | 05/08/2018 | 600 - Wheeling, IL • Corey Bondurant | 05/10/2018 | 300 - Birmingham, AL • George Richards | 05/14/2018 | 351 - Fort Myers, FL • John Hummel | 05/14/2018 | 475 - Pittsburgh, PA • Martin Hauseman | 05/22/2018 | 300 - Birmingham, AL • Christopher Kessler | 05/29/2018 | 160 - La Vergne, TN • Ryan Rendler | 05/29/2018 | 465 - Lancaster, PA

• Daniel Perez | 06/04/2018 | 660 - Houston, TX • Luke Swan | 06/04/2018 | 650 - Memphis, TN • Melissa Martinez | 06/04/2018 | 620 - Bedford Heights, OH • Steven Coleridge | 06/04/2018 | 700 - AC-Irmo, SC • Kristin Lee | 06/05/2018 | 480 - Cary, NC • Christopher Hoelle | 06/11/2018 | 151 - Jacksonville, FL • Damian Campuzano | 06/11/2018 | 660 - Houston, TX • Jong Son | 06/11/2018 | 110 - Charlotte, NC • Amanda Grafton-Holt | 06/18/2018 | 730 - AC - Irvine, CA • David Beaver Jr. | 06/18/2018 | 381 - Denton, TX • Rosalyn King | 06/25/2018 | 620 - Bedford Heights, OH • Juan Perez-Saenz | 06/28/2018 | 660 - Houston, TX • David Perez | 07/02/2018 | 550 - eCommerce (NC) • Fausto Lopez | 07/02/2018 | 660 - Houston, TX • Nicholas Rapitis | 07/09/2018 | 620 - Bedford Heights, OH • Tara Wood | 07/09/2018 | 620 - Bedford Heights, OH • Denise Juarez | 07/16/2018 | 740 - AC - San Antonio, TX • Jonathan Baumes | 07/16/2018 | 454 - Fredricksburg, VA • Vanaud Germain | 07/16/2018 | 380 - Riviera Beach, FL • Michael Kunzer | 07/23/2018 | 600 - Wheeling, IL • Mark Abbate | 07/30/2018 | 720 - AC - Dover, DE • Josiah Wood | 08/01/2018 | 702 - AC - Greenville, SC • Mario Guerrero | 08/01/2018 | 480 - Cary, NC • Eumer Arellano | 08/06/2018 | 660 - Houston, TX • Kevin Mable | 08/13/2018 | 466 - Gordonville, PA • Jordan Turner | 08/15/2018 | 160 - La Vergne, TN • Ashley Dillon | 08/20/2018 | 190 - Corporate - HQ • Thornton Spellman | 08/20/2018 | 720 - AC - Dover, DE • Brenda Constantin | 08/21/2018 | 740 - AC - San Antonio, TX • Stephen Bates | 08/22/2018 | 190 - Corporate - HQ • Daryl Butler | 08/24/2018 | 110 - Charlotte, NC • Denny Phung | 08/27/2018 | 160 - La Vergne, TN • Joe Stroup | 08/27/2018 | 360 - Tampa, FL • Spencer Menk | 08/27/2018 | 600 - Wheeling, IL • Amanda Metzger | 09/04/2018 | 510 - Division 10 • Brooks Hill | 09/04/2018 | 710 - AC- Jacksonville, FL • Bryam Celaya | 09/04/2018 | 730 - AC - Irvine, CA • Christopher Stokes | 09/04/2018 | 457 - Frederick, MD • Robert Ehart | 09/04/2018 | 720 - AC - Dover, DE • Igor Cejvan | 09/06/2018 | 165 - Nashville, TN • Eric Chupack | 09/11/2018 | 620 - Bedford Heights, OH • James Ash | 09/11/2018 | 381 - Denton, TX • Brian Paine | 09/19/2018 | 650 - Memphis, TN • Brian Walden | 09/21/2018 | 315 - Huntsville, AL • Annah Gath | 09/24/2018 | 930 - Everett, WA • Laura Kessler | 09/24/2018 | 190 - Corporate - HQ • Craig LaMontagne | 09/26/2018 | 190 - Corporate - HQ • Fred Holcombe | 10/01/2018 | 680 - Victoria, TX • Matthew White | 10/01/2018 | 700 - AC-Irmo, SC • Darryl Posey | 10/08/2018 | 190 - Corporate - HQ • Donald Betz | 10/08/2018 | 680 - Victoria, TX • Kendall Blankenship | 10/08/2018 | 458 - Lynchburg, VA • Seane Atkins | 10/08/2018 | 130 - Simpsonville, SC • Terry Wilson | 10/08/2018 | 380 - Riviera Beach, FL • Edward Blight | 10/09/2018 | 720 - AC - Dover, DE • Barry Thompson | 10/15/2018 | 470 - Erie, PA • John Conner | 10/15/2018 | 620 - Bedford Heights, OH • Kellie Michels | 10/15/2018 | 120 - Winston Salem, NC

Celebrating 5+ Years

Anniversaries

10 YEARS • Jonathan Sampayo | 01/03/2013 | 660 - Houston, TX • Daniel Deardowski | 01/28/2013 | 611 - Cleveland, OH • Kenneth Guffin | 01/28/2013 | 611 - Cleveland, OH • David Lewis | 02/25/2013 | 790 - Corporate - AC Region • Jonathan Sickles | 03/04/2013 | 455 - Rockville, MD • Steven Schans | 03/18/2013 | 370 - Tallahassee, FL • Ronald Haines | 03/25/2013 | 165 - Nashville, TN • John Pocrnich | 04/02/2013 | 350 - Seminole, FL • Robrecht Ouwinga | 04/08/2013 | 110 - Charlotte, NC • Thomas Pallotta | 04/15/2013 | 470 - Erie, PA • William McHugh | 04/22/2013 | 475 - Pittsburgh, PA • Colin Bridgen | 04/29/2013 | 475 - Pittsburgh, PA • Timothy Wright | 05/01/2013 | 650 - Memphis, TN • Kristen Jenny | 05/15/2013 | 702 - AC - Greenville, SC • Clarence Pribble | 06/03/2010 | 458 - Lynchburg, VA • Patrick Wagner | 08/26/2010 | 458 - Lynchburg, VA • Chad Jackson | 06/17/2013 | 165 - Nashville, TN • Shea Weemhoff | 06/24/2013 | 110 - Charlotte, NC • Clarence Hunter | 07/01/2013 | 165 - Nashville, TN • Joyce Wheeler | 07/08/2013 | 300 - Birmingham, AL • Bryan Chalekian | 07/18/2013 | 600 - Wheeling, IL • Brandon Mathis | 07/22/2013 | 130 - Simpsonville, SC • Chelsea Cliborne | 07/29/2013 | 701 - AC - Charleston, SC • Shannon Duke | 07/29/2013 | 165 - Nashville, TN • James Caradine | 08/05/2013 | 300 - Birmingham, AL • Tiffany Simmons | 08/07/2013 | 790 - Corporate - AC Region • Terrance Sippel | 08/12/2013 | 610 - Akron, OH • Brandon Sedio | 08/21/2013 | 620 - Bedford Heights, OH • Michelle Windom | 08/22/2013 | 660 - Houston, TX • Chase Stanzel | 09/01/2013 | 680 - Victoria, TX • Audra Hoover | 09/06/2013 | 465 - Lancaster, PA • Thomas Payne | 09/09/2013 | 454 - Fredricksburg, VA • Brian Kukla | 09/16/2013 | 620 - Bedford Heights, OH • Nathaniel VanAlstyne | 09/19/2013 | 930 - Everett, WA • Ashley Godby | 09/26/2013 | 454 - Fredricksburg, VA • Richard Myers | 10/04/2013 | 610 - Akron, OH • Kenneth Chappell | 10/07/2013 | 459 - Harrisonburg, VA • Christopher Small | 10/08/2013 | 910 - Corporate - WE Region • Erachmiel Cohen | 10/08/2013 | 190 - Corporate - HQ

• Ricky Johnson | 05/27/2008 | 130 - Simpsonville, SC • Lori Corso | 06/02/2008 | 490 - Corporate - MA Region • Luis Salinas | 06/02/2008 | 660 - Houston, TX • Shawn Wallace | 06/02/2008 | 140 - Columbia, SC • William Hunter | 06/02/2008 | 140 - Columbia, SC • James Fish | 06/09/2008 | 130 - Simpsonville, SC • Troy Larsen | 06/14/2008 | 912 - Salt Lake City, UT • Esker Spence | 06/16/2008 | 120 - Winston Salem, NC • Stanley Mailman | 06/16/2008 | 260 - Portland, ME • Lonnie Huffstetler | 07/28/2008 | 700 - AC-Irmo, SC • Terence Bourne | 08/04/2008 | 380 - Riviera Beach, FL • Stephen Harris | 08/25/2008 | 455 - Rockville, MD • Aaron Witt | 08/26/2008 | 660 - Houston, TX • Penny Richardson | 10/20/2008 | 190 - Corporate - HQ • Matthew Froehlich | 10/28/2008 | 680 - Victoria, TX • James Dietz | 11/07/2008 | 351 - Fort Myers, FL

• Fletcher Bass | 10/14/2013 | 700 - AC-Irmo, SC • Lester Smith | 10/14/2013 | 720 - AC - Dover, DE • David Chernega | 10/16/2013 | 480 - Cary, NC • Alejo Perera | 10/27/2013 | 380 - Riviera Beach, FL • Samuel Mireles | 11/04/2013 | 700 - AC-Irmo, SC

Health & Wellness Survey Your Feedback & Our Responses

Preventive Care Whether preventive care is free (or not) depends on two factors: 1. Age Appropriateness: The American Medical Association (AMA) and the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (ACA) have a list of age-appropriate preventive screenings that Cigna uses when processing claims. If you do not fall within the specified age group, the procedure is not considered preventive care. For example, a flu vaccine is considered preventive care for all ages, while a colonoscopy would not be considered appropriate preventive care for someone under the age of 45. Additionally, certain blood work, such as Vitamin D or Iron deficiency testing, is not considered preventive and will be applied to your deductible. These tests are still processed through your insurance, and you will receive the contracted discount rate, but you will need to pay for these tests as they will be applied to your deductible. 2. Claim Filing: How the doctor files your claim matters. If the doctor files your claim as an office visit instead of an annual physical or categorizes a procedure (such as a mammogram or colonoscopy) as diagnostic rather than preventive, it will not be free. If you believe that your preventive care visit or procedure was filed incorrectly, please contact the BRC for assistance. We deeply appreciate our employees who participated in providing us with feedback. For those who provided their contact information, we held a drawing for prizes. 18 lucky winners were the recipients of a FITBIT Smartwatch, while 2 individuals won a Vitamix Blender!

We would like to extend our gratitude to those who participated in the Health & Wellness Survey . We greatly value your feedback and suggestions, which we will consider when planning our employee benefits in the future. View the feedback on company benefits and our responses below. ( When we refer to “benefits,” this includes medical, dental, vision, life and disability insurance, voluntary insurance benefits, wellness activities and more.) Satisfaction: The majority of respondents (62%) indicated that they were either satisfied or very satisfied with our company benefits package, and 68% stated that they were likely or very likely to recommend C&B as an employer based on our benefit package. Meanwhile, 24% expressed neutrality regarding our benefits, and 14% were either dissatisfied or very dissatisfied, with only 4% stating that they were not likely to recommend C&B as an employer based on the benefit package. Claims: One common message we observed was that some employees were encountering issues with claims. Cook & Boardman offers a free service to assist with any questions or concerns you may have regarding claims. Please reach out to the Benefit Resource Center (BRC) at 855-874-0835 or via email at BRCSouth@usi.com. These benefit experts can help you understand your claims and provide information on claims escalation, appeals and resolutions. Learn more by visiting our informational microsite at https://cookandboardman.myben.site/brc/ If you ever feel that you are not receiving the insurance coverage you expect, always reach out to the BRC to question claims. If the claims are processed correctly, you may want to consider switching to a different plan during the next open enrollment period.

Paramount USD Access Control Project Paramount, California

During Phase 2, the district learned they qualified for ESSER government funding, which allowed them to upgrade locking mechanisms and efficiencies on all campuses, and a new project was born! Because the district knew BlueViolet could perform the work and had a CMAS Contract within the state, they entrusted the new $6.7 Million Dollar project to the team without requiring a bid or RFP! Two years later, with the help of Randy Toma, Dylan Brown, and an Allegion sales rep, the district settled on a product for the new locking hardware mechanisms, with installation planned to start in December of 2023! This will be the largest project yet, valued at $6.7 Million Dollars and covering access control for all 1,400 doors and entryways in the school’s district. BlueViolet anticipates the new Avigilon and Allegion control panels, power supplies, and electronic locking hardware will be completed by 2025. They also anticipate additional projects will develop within the growing district.

Paramount High School in California has over 4,000 students, making it one of the largest high school campuses west of the Mississippi River. The state’s over-populated school district greatly needed increased video-surveillance and safety enhancements for students and staff, prompting district leaders to seek professional support. They found that support in Randy Toma, Account Manager for BlueViolet Networks. Leveraging his pre-existing relationship with the School Safety Director, Randy began work on a $1 Million Dollar security camera project for their 21 school campus locations! Avigilon, a partner with BlueViolet, was selected as the camera supplier for this two-phase project. During Phase 1, Sales Engineer, Dylan Brown, helped create the quotes and the system’s design. Project Manager Jaime Briceno and his team worked diligently to install the multitude of video cameras. These dedicated team members aimed to keep the relationship between Paramount School District and BlueViolet Networks strong as Phase 2 quickly approached. Phase 2 consisted of installing additional cameras at the remaining campuses and adding another $1 Million Dollars to the project.

Stephanie Rossomano Benefits Manager

Randy Toma Account Manager, BlueViolet Networks Amber Hagan Digital Marketing Specialist, Corporate

Company Events

July Annual ABS Town Hall and Taco Truck Event – July 19 American Building Services held its annual Town Hall Meeting and then enjoyed a tasty food truck afterwards.

Ice Cream Truck August 31 The Corporate office and Cook & Boardman Winston-Salem branch cooled down with a sweet treat, courtesy of Dream Kreams!

Charlotte Marketing Meeting July 24 - 26 The Corporate Marketing Team had a wonderful time collaborating in Charlotte, NC! They shared best practices and strategized marketing initiatives to best support CBG branches and clients.

College Colors Day August 31 In honor of College Colors Day, some team members proudly sported their favorite college colors at work!

MJW Employee Appreciation Event July 31 MJW celebrated employees with a lunchtime gathering around a delicious food truck.

Amanda Metzger - Corporate

Bob Reilly - HC Quality Doors

Nathan Peek - JDS

Pinnacle Doors

CBG University District Managers Training - August 21 – 25 The CBG University officially launched, hosting an inaugural Leadership Experience for company District Managers in Winston-Salem, NC. Dave Sweeney was awarded the prestigious “Golden Key” award. Chosen by their peers, the Golden Key award is presented to the leader who best represents Servant Leadership based on Cook & Boardman’s S.E.R.V.E. Core Values during their Leadership Experience.

ASSA ABLOY Academy Training Late July The ASSA ABLOY Academy Training Workshop visited the Memphis Branch (Delta Door/Universal Manufacturing) with a two-day training seminar for Delta staff; training topics were Hands-on Wiring, Master-keying and Codes/Standards.

BSCO Company Trip - Mid-August The Tuscaloosa and Birmingham branches of Building Specialties Company enjoyed a thrilling trip whitewater rafting in Tennessee!

August

A3’s Annual Summer Fun Day August 15

CEIA Training - August 22 CEIA USA OPENGATE Training took place for the A3 team in Irmo, SC, where they learned and embraced new CEIA technology.

“Annual Summer Fun Day” was held at the A3 Headquarters in Irmo, SC, with Lead Cabling Tech, Clarence Lewis, turning up the heat and cooking a delicious feast for the team!

Company Events

Tech Appreciation Event at 3Sixty – September 29 The 3Sixty team celebrated their wonderful technicians with lunch at Chama Gaucha, new tools and equipment and some well-deserved praise during Tech Appreciation Week.

Cook & Boardman Radio Campaign – September 12 A unique radio-marketing campaign with a live broadcast from 107.5 - The Game Radio - was hosted for the Columbia C&B branch at their Open House/Grand Opening of their new Sales Counter & Warehouse! There were also raffles, swag bags and a food truck!

September

BlueViolet Networks and Motorola Appreciation Lunch – September 15 BlueViolet Networks was pleased to have an Annual Appreciation Lunch with Motorola. It was a beautiful California day served with smoked BBQ perfection!

Builders Hardware Grand Opening – September 27 Doors opened to welcome new faces into Builders’ new Pittsburgh branch location in Sewickley, PA. The ASSA ABLOY mobile showroom, a food truck, music, raffles and more were enjoyed by all.

Advantech and DE Turf – September 24 Advantech team members were excited to not only sponsor the annual DE Turf Kickball tournament again this year, but to also take home the championship! The all synthetic-turf, multi-use sports complex located in Frederica, DE was developed to drive tourism and economic development in Kent County.

James Doorcheck Town Hall Meeting September 26 A successful Town Hall meeting was held at James Doorcheck in Philadelphia to invest in our Philadelphia team members!

Company Family Day September 16 In line with “Global Company Culture Day”, C&B engaged in employee happiness by inviting associates and their families to Tanglewood Park in Clemmons, NC for fun, food and games.

Fun Fact: Company culture is an important factor for 46% of job seekers! (Source: teamstage.io)

The Wyndham Golf Event is an annual professional golf tournament that takes place on the PGA Tour and is held at the Sedgefield Country Club in Greensboro, NC. This prestigious event has a rich history and is known for its exciting competition.

The Cook & Boardman Group hosted a hospitality suite on the 17th green and welcomed clients, business partners and company representatives for four days of golf, networking and entertainment.

This event showcased our company’s commitment to building and elevating valuable business relationships while offering fun, camaraderie and relaxation in an exquisite setting. The suite was filled to capacity all four days, and despite a few spouts of downpours, a great time was had by all.

Q: How was your experience with DMLE, and what was your biggest takeaway? “I had a great experience at the District Manager Leadership Experience. Our organization is full of top-notch individuals, and when combined, we make a one-of-a-kind team! I truly enjoyed the time working with my colleagues in developing solutions to some of our business challenges, while focusing on education and growth for myself.” Dave Sweeney’s insights offer a glimpse into the transformative power of leadership development at Cook & Boardman University, where leaders like him are shaping the future of our organization.

CBG University Training District Manager Leadership Experience

Class leaders, Lou Andruzzi, Lauren Cody, and Nick Herbert

An Exclusive Interview with Dave Sweeney: We had the privilege of sitting down with Dave Sweeney to delve into his thoughts on leadership and his experience during this exceptional course. Q: What does leadership mean to you, and how do you personally define your leadership style? “Leadership is defined by actions, results, and the team. A leader requires the skill set to develop and maintain a team of people. Leaders are responsible for developing courses of action or plans that are then executed by the team. All of this requires good communication skills along with respect for all team members. I would define my leadership style as ‘by example.’ I would never ask my team to perform a task that I am not willing or able to perform – I believe that this quality is important in developing long-term, successful teams.” Q: In your opinion, what is the most important quality a leader should possess, and why? “Critical thinking. All challenges have many solutions. I believe it is a leader’s responsibility to evaluate all possible solutions and determine the best solution for the current challenge. This often requires engagement of the team and requires the leader to understand the ‘bigger picture’ and long-term objectives of the team – to assure that the solution not only meets the short-term needs but, more importantly, best positions the team for the long-term objectives.”

Cook & Boardman University is proud to announce the successful completion of its first Leadership Experience, held in Winston- Salem, NC. This transformative event, described by participants as “engaging, educational and rewarding” will be available for leaders of all levels across the organization. During this week-long program in late August, District Managers fostered enduring relationships poised to make a significant impact across our organization in the months to come. We are delighted to extend our heartfelt congratulations to Dave Sweeney, who was recognized by his peers as an exemplary servant leader, and was honored with the prestigious “Golden Key Award.”

Lou Andruzzi Senior Director of Talent Development

Lauren Cody receives “Gallup Global Strengths Coach” Certification

Lauren Cody, Leadership Program Facilitator for Cook and Boardman University, had the incredible opportunity to attend the Gallup Global Strengths Coach Certification Program in Washington, D.C. The course taught her about people: how to spot their potential, how to bring their potential to life and how to coach what “could be” into

hard-hitting results. This program has equipped her with the skills and knowledge to help individuals and teams at The Cook and Boardman Group uncover and leverage their unique strengths and abilities for personal and professional growth. Congratulations, Lauren, and many thanks for investing in yourself and our team!

Dave Sweeney District Manager, Atlantic Region

What does your typical work day consist of?

“I supervise the organization’s payroll functions, which includes processing payroll on time, accurately and in compliance with government regulations. I ensure all compliance reports are prepared and fully reconciled, and I also serve as the Payroll/HRIS system reporting expert, making & generating reports daily.”

What was your start date with the organization?

“I started in October of 2008.”

Have you held any other positions within the company?

“I started my professional journey with C&B fifteen years ago as an HR Generalist. As the organization expanded, I transitioned towards a focus on the payroll aspect of HR.”

How long have you been in the commercial DFH/ construction industry?

“Twenty-one years!”

A Day in the Life of... an HR, Payroll & HRIS Manager

What do you enjoy most about your role?

“Working with the wonderful HR team we have!”

The Corporate Payroll Manager is responsible for overseeing and supervising the organization’s payroll functions, including processing payroll on time, accurately and in compliance with government regulations. Additionally, this person ensures all compliance reports are prepared and fully reconciled. Penny was raised in Winston-Salem and lives one hour north of the Corporate office in a small town called Walnut Cove! She is happily married and will celebrate a 25th wedding anniversary soon! The couple share an incredible son and daughter together.

Penny Richardson has been with The Cook & Boardman Group for fifteen years, and worked in the construction industry for twenty-one!

Provide two fun/ interesting facts about yourself that others may not know.

“I’m a survivor of Childhood Leukemia, and I once had a pet deer!”

Favorite pastimes?

“My three favorite pastimes include enjoying live performances by local bands on Saturday nights, spending quality time with my family (especially my adult children) and simply relaxing by the beach.”

The Pillars of Protection Unveiling the Cornerstones of Effective Risk Management

VT Industries

VT Industries, Inc. offers a full line of commercial interior doors to fit nearly any design aesthetic and performance specifications your project requires. What’s more, VT’s customer service and sales teams are your trusted partners, providing best-in-class support on every project.

C&B engages in a lot of risky business – it comes with the territory – but one of the riskiest is the hiring of subcontractors. C&B is protected from risk by a strong insurance program and more importantly, the hiring and vetting process of new employees. When we hire a subcontractor, that protection goes out the window. Then, we’re relying on their hiring process and their insurance. Since we have no insight into how they find, hire and train employees, we have to look to their insurance – and the terms and conditions of our contract – for our protection. Subcontractor compliance is a critical part of our risk management as a company, so it’s time for a reminder of what we are looking for in order to approve subcontractors. 1. A current W9 is required to ensure correct tax reporting to the IRS. 2. A current, up-to-standard COI is required by our contract with our customers, and if we don’t comply, any claim that arises from the subcontractor’s work comes out of our pockets. The indemnity is part of all our customer contracts, and the required wording is 100% necessary to have the subcontractor’s insurance cover any claim that might come from their work. We cannot buy insurance that doesn’t require a contract and correct COI wording. 3. A copy of the licenses required by the subcontractor’s scope - from contractor’s license to driver’s license, our contracts, our insurance (and likely theirs), etc. OSHA requires it. 4. A signed contract is where the rubber meets the road. Without it, insurance doesn’t matter. The subcontractor’s insurance is set up partly to cover us from their mistakes. It will only do so according to the terms and conditions of a signed contract. Risk will not approve any subcontractor without a signed agreement. If the subcontractor is performing work for us under a Master Agreement, we will also need to see a signed copy of the purchase/work order for a given project. We need confirmation of the scope and price, as well as another “signed contract” for the added protection from a potential insurance dispute.

This isn’t a change to our policies, but with our growth, we can all use a refresher! Please know that when it comes to coverage types and limits, we can be flexible based on the subcontractor’s scope of work: driver, installer, clean-up crew, etc. We can not be flexible on having a signed agreement and, at minimum, a current COI with the proper wording is necessary. Please present all required documents when you’re looking for approval of a subcontractor and note the lines in the sand: No COI or no contract = no approval and the subcontractor won’t get paid. Asking for forgiveness and not permission is not an option. If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out to me directly: clamontagne@cookandboardman.com.

The Heritage Collection The Heritage Collection encompasses all flush wood door options available including: • Flush Wood Veneer • High Pressure Decorative Laminate (HPDL) • Stylus Doors • Specialty Faces including laser marquetry, sketch-face, blueprint matched, mirrored, inlays, and split-species

The Palladium* Collection Palladium Doors are a durable and versatile

solution and offer superior impact resistance and are ideal for high-traffic, high-abuse applications. • Two edge types: fixed or removable • Faces are antimicrobial; perfect for busy healthcare and educational applications • Non-PVC InPro Rigid Vinyl Sheet • Available in over 125 solid colors, patterns, metallic, and woodgrains

• Performance options including STC-rated, fire-rated, lead-lined, and bullet-resistant The Stile & Rail Collection Classic stile and rail construction with a wide variety of standard and custom elevations available. HPDL Door – Smokey Brown Pear (5488-58)

Craig LaMontagne Director of Risk Management

Removable Edge

Fixed Edge

Forward by VT Forward by VT is a quick-ship program that offers a tailored collection of commercial door products in as few as three days. • Nationwide availability • Flush Wood Veneer Doors • Specialty Doors • Commercial Paintable Surface Doors • NEW - Molded Panel Doors (6-8 week lead time) • Now available to quote and order through new VTonline*

• Meet WDMA/AWS Custom Grade & Premium Grade quality standards • Raised membrane pressed, raised rim-banded, flat, glass, and louver panel elevations • Domestic and exotic veneer options • Performance options include STC- rated and fire-rated • Laser marquetry, sketch-face, inlay & split species designs available

One Panel Stile & Rail Door – Walnut Veneer

About VT Industries, Inc. Headquartered in Holstein, Iowa, VT Industries, Inc., is a family-owned business and is North America’s leading manufacturer of commercial architectural wood doors, countertops, and surfaces. The company’s four divisions serve customers from fifteen facilities strategically located throughout the U.S. and Canada. For more information, visit VT’s website at www.vtindustries.com.

Hall of Famers

Contributions From our Associates

Michael (District Manager) recently celebrated two major milestones - his 25th anniversary with National Millwork on August 30, 2023, and his 28th wedding anniversary with his beautiful wife, Lori. The couple have two daughters – Amanda, 21, a senior at the University of Florida, and Kristina, 19, a sophomore at the University of South Carolina. When Michael isn’t working or spending time with his family, you can most likely find him on a golf course. Michael Bosco National Millwork | West Palm Beach, FL

Shane (Sales Representative) celebrated his 25th anniversary with the organization on July 20, 2023. Shane enjoys spending time with his wife, Melissa and their daughter, Hadley. In his spare time he plays as much golf as he can! He is an avid NC State Wolfpack, Carolina Hurricanes and Dallas Cowboys fan and has fun playing fantasy football in the fall. Shane Parker Martin Architectural Products Cary, NC

Tim Bahm H&H Door | Victoria, TX

Zack (Project Manager) welcomed his baby boy, Zack Wamsley Architectural Building Supply Salt Lake City, UT William Helaman Wamsley, to the world on July 29, 2023. Congratulations, Zack!

Adam and his beautiful fiancee, along with his daughter, Daria, welcomed Maverick to their family this past September. Maverick is a healthy baby boy, full of life and determined in everything he does. Adam Helbling Builders’ Hardware | Pittsburgh, PA

Valerie (Accounting Specialist) was blessed with the birth of baby girl Kera-Lynn Y’leen Lodge on April 11, 2023. She weighed 6 lbs. 8 oz. and was 20 inches long. Valerie Lodge 3Sixty Integrated | San Antonio, TX

Tim (Senior Technician) recently celebrated his 35th anniversary with the organization on September 8, 2023. Outside of work he enjoys spending time with his wife of 43 years, Elva. Together, they have 4 grown children, 13 grandchildren, and 5 great grandchildren. He also loves gardening, tinkering with cars and fishing.

Tara Wood Bass Security Bedford Heights, OH

Mia Song (formerly Ladner) BlueViolet Networks Fountain Valley, VA

On September 9, 2023, Tara gave birth to a healthy and beautiful baby girl, Emma Wood. Congratulations Tara!

On September 2, 2023, Mia (Business Development Manager) married her now-husband, Mark Song, in a lovely ceremony that took place at Shangri La, in Toquerville, Utah.

Deborah (Detailer) celebrated her 40th anniversary with the organization on September 15, 2023. Deborah likes spending time with her daughter, Brandy, her extended family and with their 2 dogs! She travels to unique destinations internationally and enjoys the beach and local beach music. She also spends time attending different types of food, beverage and art festivals. Deborah Cox Martin Architectural Products Cary, NC

Lori (Division 8 Purchasing) celebrated her 25th anniversary with the organization on September 22, 2023. Lori enjoys spending time with her husband Jody, her children, Amber and Aaron and her grandson, Noah. Lori splits her time between Cary and her other home in Wilmington. She loves travelling and has been to Paris, Cognac, Bordeaux, Barcelona, Rome and Mexico in the last year. She also enjoys boating, reading and morning walks. Lori White Martin Architectural Products Cary, NC

Share Your Good News!

Robert Bell RDL Supply | Dallas, TX

Did you recently get engaged or married? Add a new little one to your family? Achieve one of your personal or professional goals? Serve your community in some way? We want to celebrate

Robert (Shipping Manager) recently celebrated his 30th anniversary with the organization on September 28, 2023. He is happily married to his wife, Claretta. Together, they have 4 children, 10 grandchildren, and 4 great grandchildren! Outside of work, he enjoys spending time with his big family, fishing and collecting die-cast trucks.

Amber (Digital Marketing Specialist) celebrated with Amber Hagan Corporate | Winston-Salem, NC husband, Tucker, and daughter, Ava, in front of their new home in Winston-Salem, NC. They are elated to move in and get settled by the holidays.

with you! Share your exciting news by scanning the QR code and emailing the details you’d like to share along with a photo to our marketing team!

Congratulations to these SERVE Award Recipients! July to September 2023 S erve A3 COMMUNICATIONS • Brittany Knowles | Inside Sales Manager | Irmo, SC SERVE AWARD RECIPIENTS

The Importance of Early Inventory Preparations Don’t Wait Until the Eleventh Hour

In our fast-paced world of commercial service and distribution, ensuring the accuracy of our inventory is crucial. At the end of each year, we embark on a full physical inventory count to guarantee that our records match the real-world items on our shelves. The process can be intensive, but its significance cannot be overstated. Waiting until the last minute to prepare for inventory counts might seem tempting, but January 2nd will be here before we know it! A precise count helps us identify surplus stock, reduce carrying costs and prevent shortages. It allows us to fulfill customer orders efficiently and keeps us competitive in the market. Identifying errors in November and December prevents issues on count day. Accurate inventory counts aren’t the sole responsibility of a select few. It’s a team effort, and every member of our organization plays a role. From sales and procurement to warehouse and logistics, we can all help to prepare. If you are part of the team at your branch that performs the Monthly Cycle counts and you have seen issues during your counts, be sure to bring those up to management as soon as possible. The same goes for the regularly scheduled WIP Counts. If you are in a Sales or Project Management role, make sure that you go through your bins to ship as much material as you can before inventory. If it is out of the building, you don’t have to count it in January! We encourage open communication and information sharing between departments to ensure everyone is on the same page. For questions regarding

Stock Inventory and WIP Counts, please contact Operations@cookandboardman.com. How Can You Help? Here are a few ways you can contribute to the success of our inventory count: 1. **Maintain Order: ** Keep warehouse and sales bin areas organized throughout the year. Well- organized shelves and clear labeling make the counting process smoother. 2. **Accurate Documentation: ** Maintain accurate records of sales, returns, and adjustments throughout the year. If you have bad WIP entries, clean them up as soon as possible. 3. **Communication: ** If you notice any discrepancies or irregularities in inventory, report them promptly. Timely communication is key; it takes time for things to be cleaned up and processed. 4. **Training: ** Stay informed about inventory procedures and best practices. Emails will be going out to managers by the end of November, and those will be shared with the teams at the branch level. Remember, our inventory is a shared responsibility, and your active participation is crucial to achieving an accurate and efficient count. Don’t wait until the last minute – let’s work together to ensure a successful physical inventory and a solid start for 2024!

our associates, customers & communities. ducate & Elevate E

espect R respect for ALL. ision V xpertise E

ADVANTECH • Chase Thompson | Purchasing Manager | Dover, DE • Nicole Covarrubias | Project Coordinator | Dover, DE

our associates through training & development programs.

to become the supplier & employer of choice in the industry.

COOK & BOARDMAN • Clay Gilbert | Welder | La Vergne, TN

to ensure we are the expert, most skilled and most knowledgeable, in our industry.

• Jennifer Bishop | ERP Systems Administrator | Corporate • Mark Van Hoever | End User Sales Rep | Winston-Salem, NC

Stephanie Colby Corporate Operations Manager

“This branch is more like a family than a group of colleagues... and It shows in the way we conduct business. As a whole, we are able to lean on each other’s strengths, motivate each other, and maintain a fun and enjoyable atmosphere. I am very proud to be associated with such a talented group of industry professionals. This award is a testament to the hard work and dedication of the entire team. It requires all of us working together towards a common goal. ” Keith Crawley, Branch Manager Branch of the Quarter for Q3 Branch of the Quarter

Simpsonville, SC

Projects Awarded Totaling $500K+ July to September 2023 BIG WINS LISTING 500 $ K +

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