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Thursday, September 28, 2023Marin Builders Member Morning - September 28, 2023
We were very excited to welcome nearly 70 guests for our Member Morning on Thursday, September 28th. We greatly appreciate everyone who made the time to come meet, greet and connect with us. Rick Wells highlighted some of the important work we are doing regarding permit improvement and workforce training. Mike Blakely, CEO of the Marin Economic Forum, who partners with us on permit improvement, discussed the value of our Permit Improvement Program (PIP). We also introduced our new North Bay Construction
Thursday, September 28, 2023The Marin Economic Forum Says Marin’s Labor Force Shortage Continues to be a Challenge
Recent articles on the U.S. economy (including those from the Marin Economic Forum) have discussed the growing concern over a labor shortage that has persisted since the pandemic. Marin’s own labor force is down over 5% (about 6,500 workers), a figure that has remained since 2020. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports there were over8.8 million jobs open in August 2023 across the U.S. and anyone who has strolled one of Marin’s downtowns has noticed a “We’re Hiring!” sign in windows. it seems to be a
Wednesday, September 27, 2023October 2023 Top Health News from Alliant Insurance Services
ADULT PICKY EATERSPicky eating is usually associated with children, but sticking with bland comfort foods can be part of adult eating habits, too. In fact, about 30% of adults identify as picky eaters. Why are some people more selective than others, and what potential solutions can help? Causes: Picky eating is often established in childhood and can persist. It may stem from a negative food experience (such as choking or food poisoning) or inconsistent lessons about eating while growing up. Some adults
Thursday, September 21, 2023The 10% That Really Matters
If you interact with other humans in any part of your life, there will be conflict at some point. In design and construction, you have a new team on every project. That means new personalities, new dynamics, new saboteurs and lots of potential conflicts. That sounds challenging because it is! However, there’s a simple shift in perspective that can make things a lot smoother. Conflict is inevitable AND difficult for most of us. Sounds like a recipe for pain…or growth. “Attachment to views, attachment to
Tuesday, September 19, 2023PG&E Wildfire Safety Tips September 2023
&##128293; Don't wait to evacuate when a wildfire strikes. Safeguard yourself and your family with a well-prepared 5-minute plan that outlines evacuation routes from your home, alternative meeting spots if you can't return home, and an emergency supply kit with essentials. Discover more life-saving safety tips at firefightersonyourside.org. #WildfireSafety #DisasterPrep #CBODirect #EvacuateEarly
Wednesday, September 13, 2023Marin Builders Member, Sandra Bird IN THE NEWS!
Legendary Marin Kitchen Designer Sandra Bird Talks Interior Design, Women in the Industry and Design History by LOTUS ABRAMS Published by SPACES Magazine September 7, 2023 Sought-after Kentfield interior designer Sandra Bird has been bringing homeowners dream kitchens — and more — to life for over four decades. During that time, kitchen design has changed a lot, reflecting peoples’ evolving lifestyles and preferences, as well as the introduction of innovations intended to elevate home cooking and
Monday, September 11, 2023Honig Vineyard and Winery in Napa Valley Boosts Sustainable Viticulture with SolarCraft Solar Panel Installation
SolarCraft, serving Marin, Sonoma and Napa counties, recently completed the installation of 184.4 kW DC solar electric power system at Honig Vineyard and Winery in Rutherford, Napa Valley. Honig will cut their electricity costs for many decades and reduce their dependency on increasingly volatile utility energy sources. Significantly reducing their carbon footprint will yield benefits for both their neighboring communities and their financial performance. The new solar panel system, designed and installed
Monday, September 11, 2023Safety & Training Short: Slips, Trips & Falls - Inspection
Slips, trips and falls constitute the majority of general industry accidents. According to OSHA, they cause 15% of all deaths, and are second only to motor vehicles as a cause of fatalities. Slips, trips and fall hazards also need to be controlled for visitors. Falls can result in substantial worker compensation and general liability claims. Following established health and safety rules not only ensures safe conditions, it creates a safety-conscious culture and shields your organization from possible
Tuesday, September 05, 2023Wildfire Safety Tips September 2023
&##128293; Don't wait to evacuate when a wildfire strikes. Safeguard yourself and your family with a well-prepared 5-minute plan that outlines evacuation routes from your home, alternative meeting spots if you can't return home, and an emergency supply kit with essentials. Discover more life-saving safety tips at firefightersonyourside.org. #WildfireSafety #DisasterPrep #CBODirect #EvacuateEarly
Monday, September 04, 2023Celebrating our Member Referral Partners - Thank You for Helping Us Build Our Community!
We would like to recognize and celebrate our wonderful REFERRAL PARTNERS!2023:Katherine Moodie, Cook Construction, who referred Da Vinci MarbleKimberly Rider, Kimberly Rider Interiors, who referred Vincent Espinzoa, V Studio, Inc.Roxanne Albin, Applied Financial Services, who referred Darren Valenzano, Valenzano ConstructionRenee Norman, Golden State Lumber, Inc. who referred, Tom Graves, Graves Construction, Inc. (Special thanks to Renee for pledging her bonus to our Scholarship and Workforce Training
Sunday, September 03, 2023l'ARCA International Design Magazine Features Robert Nebolon Architects
On Newsstands Now: The September 2023 issue of l'ARCA International, one of Italy's and Europe's leading art and architecture magazines, features Robert Nebolon Architects (RNA), San Francisco, CA --one of California/USA's top architecture firms. Luigi Prestinenza Puglisi, Italy's renowned Architecture Critic, and Giulia Mura, Editor and Writer, explore the work of RNA. RNA is a small boutique design firm that enjoys small-to-medium projects with a high level of design quality. Featured projects: The
Thursday, August 31, 2023Safety & Training Short- Lead Awareness: Engineering Controls
Objective: To introduce common engineering controls for lead exposure, including methods of substitution, isolation, and ventilation. Because lead exposure is dangerous, employers must implement engineering controls to minimize employee exposure to the greatest extent possible. Engineering controls are greatly preferred over administrative controls as the best way to control exposures. Personal protective equipment (e.g., a respirator) is considered a last resort, as the worker must wear it properly. Know
Wednesday, August 30, 2023Luau on the Links Golf Classic Shines
The links were filled with Marin Builders Association golfers at the 2023 Marin Builders 47th Annual Golf Classic - Luau on the Links! This perennially sold out event, held on August 28th at the beautiful StoneTree Golf Club in Novato, hosted over 150 guests including players, volunteers, and sponsors. Perfect Northern California weather encouraged everyone to enjoy a day of golf, sportsmanship, new connections, and delicious food & refreshments. A portion of the event proceeds benefit the Marin
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Wednesday, August 30, 2023New DOL Final Rule Regarding the Davis Bacon and Related Acts Will Have Significant Impacts on Contractors
Reprinted from August 14, 2023 newsletter The Department of Labor (“DOL”) announced its long-awaited final rule updating the Davis Bacon and Related Acts. Scheduled for publication on August 23, 2023, the new rule will have significant impacts on many industries and businesses, particularly contractors and subcontractors who perform work on federal and federally assisted construction contracts of $2,000 or more. The changes to the rule will annually affect an estimated $217 billion in federal and
Monday, August 14, 2023Your Imposter is Picking Your Pocket
Do any of these ring true? +You don’t bill all of your time (or worse, maybe you don’t even track it). +You consistently send invoices late. +You haven’t raised your rates lately (or ever). If so, your Imposter (aka The Judge) is at work. Your Judge wants to keep you small and scared to “protect” you in some warped way. It lies to you—listen to me and you’ll be successful; without me pushing you, you’ll get lazy; nothing will improve unless I constantly point out what’s wrong. And berates you—you don’t
Thursday, August 03, 2023The Latest on Electrification in Marin
Marin Remodelers Forum Delivers Resources on Electrification to Members and Community The Marin Builders Association Remodelers Forum and PG&E hosted a virtual Lunch and Learn to educate and provide local resources for electrification in Marin.Watch video of Lunch and Learn EventPresenter Slides Contact Ashley Murphree if you would like to get in touch with either of the presenters.RELATED:PG&E Energy Incentive Programs Reward Customers for Reducing Energy Use and Strain On Electric Grid2023-2024 Marin
Friday, July 28, 2023D+H Construction IN THE NEWS
'Life-changing': This empty Bay Area office building will soon be turned into supportive housing By Cornell Barnard KGO logo Friday, June 16, 2023 SAN RAFAEL, Calif. (KGO) -- In the North Bay, construction is happening to convert an empty office building into a supportive housing complex for those formerly unhoused. It's a place where meetings were once held and papers were shuffled, now an abandoned office building in San Rafael is getting a new life. "It was basically empty and wasn't being used
Wednesday, July 05, 2023Safety & Training Short: Heat Stress Prevention - Heat Illness
Objective: To reinforce awareness of dangerous heat illnesses, including symptoms, treatment procedures, and safety precautions. When the body is unable to cool off by sweating, heat-induced illnesses such as heat exhaustion and heat stroke can occur. These illnesses are very serious, and can sometimes result in death. High temperatures, humidity, direct sun or heat, limited air movement, physical exertion, poor physical condition, some medications, and inadequate tolerance for hot workplaces or areas can
Tuesday, June 27, 2023Safety & Training Short: Construction Standards - Most Violated
Job Hazard Analysis (JHA): Thorough hazard assessments for your worksites are critical to assure continued protection of staff. Learn what the most violated construction standards are, so you can create a plan to avoid unnecessary losses. Click here to download the complete training short in EnglishClick here to download the complete training short in Spanish Safety & Training Shorts provided by George Petersen Insurance Agency, the proud broker of the Marin Builders Association Workers' Comp
Thursday, June 15, 2023Safety & Training Short - Musculoskeletal Disorders: Safe Lifting
Before you lift something, ask yourself these questions: How heavy is the load?Will it be awkward to control?Should I ask for help?Can it be moved mechanically with available equipment?Is it in an accessible position?Does it have sharp edges?Will it be slippery or awkward to lift?Do I need gloves or other protection?Click here to download the complete training short in EnglishClick here to download the complete training short in Spanish Safety & Training Shorts provided by George Petersen Insurance Agency,
Tuesday, June 06, 2023Safety & Training Short: Active Shooter - Organizational Preparedness
Objective: To assure that your organization is prepared for an active shooter incident and is taking proactive steps to minimize the chances or effectiveness of a shooter on the premises. No workplace is immune to the risks of an active shooter incident. However, there are steps that you can take to assure that your organization is prepared for the worst. Emergency Action PlanTraining ExercisesPreventative MeasuresWarning SignsClick here to download the complete training short in EnglishClick here to
Monday, June 05, 2023Marin Green Home Tour - Represent Your Project!! Come Be A Part!!
The Marin Green Home Touris looking for local homes to feature in our 2nd annual virtual tour in October 2023. We are seeking variety of homes that reflect the economic, geographic, and racial diversity of the community and plan to include various home types, including single-family, condos, apartments, cottages/ADU’s, etc. The tour highlights energy efficiency, electrification, renewable energy, green building practices, sustainable design, and a mix of high-tech and DIY solutions that reduce your
Thursday, May 18, 2023Building Self-Esteem by Showing Up for Yourself
Like so many things, we tend to think confidence and esteem will come from “out there.” When I achieve the next level/goal/position. When I get the affirmation or accolades. When I finally get paid $X. Or if we just think hard enough about it, it will be so. Oh, no. I was inspired by a recent episode of Queer Eye when JVN told the makeover subject that we gain confidence by setting goals and then showing up for ourselves. Word, JVN! We can’t think or wish ourselves into more confidence. It takes
Wednesday, April 26, 2023Decisions, Decisions...Intuition vs Analysis
Decisions, Decisions… According to researchers at Cornell University we make 226.7 decisions a day just on food alone. Imagine the number of decisions for entrepreneurs and business owners! And then layer on the complexities of a design or construction project. Yikes. Decision fatigue is real. Part of that could be trying to use your analytical mind to solve problems that actually require intuition instead. The analytical mind is a useful tool. It is great for solving linear problems such as A
Wednesday, April 26, 2023Safety & Training Short - Visitor Safety
Objective: To create awareness of safe practices that protect visitors from worksite hazards. Visitors are any non-employees at the facility, including contractors, vendors, family members of employees, and facility inspectors. Because visitors may be unaware of the hazards and required processes specific to your organization, they may inadvertently endanger themselves or others through improper practices. The potential outcomes include injury, property damage, significant business interruption, and the
Thursday, April 13, 2023Laying the Foundation: How to Build a Winning Construction Team
The Building Code A podcast by BuildertrendAvailable to View on YouTube On this episode of “The Building Code,” Zach and Charley are discussing how to find and hire top talent with Paul Sanneman, founder and president, and Ed Earl, chief operating officer, of Contractor Staffing Source. Paul and Ed are passionate about helping residential contractors find talented staff to grow their construction company. Their extensive knowledge and expertise have contributed to their company’s success as a leading
Wednesday, April 12, 2023Safety & Training Short: Evacuation Drills
In an emergency situation, evacuating employees out of a building poses unique challenges. Appropriate exits, emergency lighting, communication systems, alarms and sprinkler systems are critical for employee safety. Emergency routes need to be developed, posted, and properly maintained to ensure easy accessibly in an emergency situation. Drills are a critical component of all emergency actions plans to ensure that emergency procedures are understood and followed by all occupants.Click here to download
Thursday, April 06, 2023Safety & Training Short: PPE - Foot Protection
Objective: To familiarize employees with common types of foot protection Keeping your feet safe on the job means protecting them from a spectrum of potential hazards, including skin infections, crushing injuries, exposure to electricity, chemicals, extreme temperatures, or sharps, and other common worksite hazards. Before beginning work, conduct a job hazard analysis to determine the need of foot protection to prevent injury.Click here to download the complete training short in EnglishClick here to
Monday, April 03, 2023The Joy of Service? It's More Than You Think
Many of us in a service business, or any business, put all of our focus on the client or customer. We twist ourselves in knots to please them. We accept unacceptable behavior. We sacrifice our own self-care and boundaries. That’s our saboteurs in action. Your Sage knows the true joy of service is as much about you as it is about serving others. Think about why you got into design or architecture or however you serve your clients. You have passion and talent and want to share it with the world! You have a
Wednesday, March 15, 2023Your Secret Super Power
"The Superpower is Relaxation” - Julie Piatt Bam! This truth bomb, dropped by Julie Piatt (aka Sri Mu) on my favorite pod (Rich Roll), made me smile from ear to ear. In a world where hustle, grind, one-upmanship and even burnout are lauded, this can be a tough one for most of us to swallow. What if the inverse of everything you’ve been rewarded for is actually the seat of your power? There is a 1 in 400 trillion chance that you are alive in human form at this moment. [pause for impact] You, in all your
Tuesday, February 14, 2023Creativity Love Potion
Love = Creativity = Love Apologies to my 9th grade algebra teacher, Mrs. Greenburg, for the wonky formula, but it’s true and I’m going to prove it. Think about a time when you were at your most creative. Ideas were flowing. Shapes, colors and textures emerged intuitively, without thinking. Time stood still. Or flew by. Now think about how you were feeling at that moment. Were you angry?Stressed?Disappointed?Feeling guilty?Judging yourself or another? I highly doubt it. More likely, you felt expansive,
Monday, January 30, 2023New Virtual Assistant Service Offers Support to Construction, Landscaping and Real Estate Businesses
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Jan 30, 2023 New Virtual Assistant Service Offers Support to Construction, Landscaping and Real Estate Businesses [Marin County, CA] - LPSS is excited to announce the launch of our new virtual assistant service, Ogmentor, for construction, landscaping and real estate businesses. Our team of experienced professionals is dedicated to providing top-notch support to businesses in these industries, helping them save time and money while increasing efficiency and productivity. Our
Wednesday, January 11, 2023Can You Take a Vacation?
Time Out for Time Off At a recent dinner with colleagues, one asked, “Who here can really take a vacation?” One brave soul offered that she was done with bringing drawings on the beach with her. The others didn’t answer. What’s your answer? Society and your Saboteurs perpetuate the big lie that vacation is indulgent, selfish or even dangerous. The competition will surpass you. You’ll lose that project. It will look bad to [fill in the blank]. Your world can’t possibly keep spinning if you take time
Sunday, January 01, 2023Liens & Completions 2022-2023
Click the links below to view a current list of Liens & Completions published and provided by the County of Marin. If what you're looking for is not listed below, please don't hesitate to call our offices directly at 415.462.1220 or contact Paula Krause
Tuesday, December 06, 2022Contractors with No Employees Face New Workers' Compensation Requirement
A new law will require almost all contractors in California to carry workers’ compensation coverage, regardless of if they have employees or not. According to the author of the bill, State Senator Bill Dodd (D-Napa) the new law was necessary due to the tendency of many small contractors to claim they have no employees, when in fact they regularly hire day laborers or undocumented workers. Since a firm with only an owner and no employees is not required to carry workers’ comp coverage, those workers would
Monday, August 22, 2022Medicare Solutions Brought to you by Alliant
Free Member Resource for Navigating the Medicare Maze Most people become eligible for Medicare at age 65. Medicare is the government run health insurance for people age 65 and older, younger people with disabilities, and people with End Stage Renal Disease. Medicare can look like a complicated maze of choices, between Medicare Parts A–D, Medicare Advantage plans, and Medicare Supplement (Medigap) policies. That’s why we are introducing a resource to help you understand the different parts of Medicare, what