BE PREPARED FOR THE PEAK OF HURRICANE SEASON

Hurricanes in Georgia?  Yes! According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Georgia is at particular risk of being affected by hurricanes because it is a coastal state.  The hurricanes that affect Georgia are severe tropical storms that form in the southern Atlantic Ocean, Caribbean Sea and Gulf of Mexico. Hurricane season lasts from June 1st until November 30th, but the majority of activity is from August until October.  Therefore, every state resident should plan what to do in the event of an evacuation.

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Pack-Out? Huh?

When a customer is told that their house is going to be packed out, sometimes what they envision is not an accurate depiction of what actually takes place. So, just to offer a bit of clarity, here is a general explanation of what to expect:

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Be a Safe Driver

It has been estimated that over 1,200,000 people lose their lives in traffic accidents worldwide each year!  By taking some practical steps to drive safely, lives could very well be saved.  According to the Australian Journal of Social Issues, 'a driver improving ones behavior at the wheel will reduce the risk of fatalities, such as fatigue, which can dull one's mind and slow responses.'  Other emotional behaviors that affect driving safety, and can lead to unwise decisions, include the following: anger, anxiety and excitement.  Let's not forget one's physical condition too, certain illnesses or injuries can cause a person's ability to drive safely.  By respecting the lives of others we would not want to be behind the wheel if our driving ability has been impaired by medication, or alcohol abuse.  Try and avoid distractions such as multitasking: cell phones, texting and other operating devices.  Always drive defensively by staying alert and assume the other drive does not see you.  Maintaining a safe distance between vehicles will prevent most collisions, which is the main cause for high insurance premiums to  increase  according to the Insurance Safety Institute.  Driving is a necessity and a privilege for millions of people today.  By respecting and showing consideration to others can save lives!

Pam Brown - Marketing Representative

What's Your Emergency Response Plan?

During these distressing economic times, many of us have found ourselves going back to the basics. Some have done this as a precaution while it has been downright necessary for others. We find ourselves asking, is this a necessary expense? And, what changes can I make today, to make my business stronger tomorrow? The result is that we cut back and are left with the core basics that really matter.

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Photography: You can do it, but here are a few tips to remember....

I was recently contacted by an online travel guide company.  They had found a photo that I had taken that I posted online and they wanted to use it in there newest travel guide. Of course I did not get paid for it but I was honored that they chose it and gave me credit for it. I by no means consider myself a "professional" photographer. I have never owned a fancy camera with all the accessories or taken any course on photography. I try to the best with what hardware I have  but I let my passion for the art do the rest.  I have learned many things about photography on my own and sadly there are many thing that I have learned the hard way. I would like to share them and some other tips with you that may help you wether you are take it up as a hobby or to use in your business. (Again, I am not a professional)

1. Take advantage of opportunities -Photography is 24/7, it really is all about timing. I can't count the times that I have said or my wife has said " I/You should have had the camera" No matter what field of work you are in or what recreational activities you enjoy when a opportunity for a good photos presents itself have a camera and start shooting. Look for opportunities that might repeat themselves the next day or at a certain time of the year if you missed it the first time , like a sunset or a winter shot. Keep it in your mind or write it down and catch it the next go round.

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National Preparedness Month - September 2009

This September is the sixth annual National Preparedness Month.  NPM 2009 will focus on changing perceptions about emergency preparedness and will help Americans understand what it truly means to be ready and how preparedness goes beyond fire alarms, smoke detectors, and extra food in the pantry.

Visit www.ready.gov for help on making a disaster supply kit, making a family emergency plan, staying informed and how you can get involved!

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Preparedness Quiz

1.  How much water per person per day should your disaster supply kit have?

A. One gallon
B. One liter
C. Two gallons
D. Twelve ounces

The answer is A - one gallon per person per day for at least three days.
  
2. Which of the following is not a safe water source in the home?

A. Melted ice cubes
B. Water beds
C. Toilet tank
D. Hot water tank

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What Makes Champion Different?

I recently sent out a short survey through email and asked my co-workers, "What do you think sets us apart from our competitors?"

Here are some of the replies I received.

Brett Bishop, Mitigation Crew Leader: "We offer the World's Fastest Drying!"

Larry Banach, Construction Manager:  "The people."

Gary Anderson, General Manager:  "Champion is a close knit, family based organization comprised of individuals that truly care about giving their customers the best service experience available in our industry."

Jerry Quarles, Estimator:  "As a family owned & operated business, we have grown large enough to have the ability to help many families within a large coverage area while we have maintained small town values, never viewing our customers as a “number” but, rather, as a neighbor in need."

What do YOU think makes us different? Tell us what you like about our company and what you would like to see different.

Champion Receives Performance Excellence Award from Crawford Contractor Connection

On June 9th -12th Joel Reets (President), Jeremy Reets (C.E.O.) & Gary Anderson (General Manager) of Champion Construction Systems, Inc. attended the Crawford Contractor Connection Conference at Caesar’s Palace in Las Vegas, Nevada. This year the conference focused on keys to customer service that will drive the growth and expansion of the Contractor Connection network in 2009 and beyond. The conference included various speakers who provided helpful insights to all. Jeremy Reets spoke about “Measuring and Creating Evaporation Potential” which provided a scientific explanation of the effect that drying equipment has on the drying process. There was also a conference expo that provided access to over 70 exhibitors who are key service providers to the insurance, restoration, and remodeling industries.  The highlight of the convention was, by far, the honor of receiving “The Strength of Working Together” Performance Excellence Award for the Southeast District.  As part of the award, Champion received a football autographed by Brian Holloway, a Stanford All-American and five-time NFL All-Pro. Holloway excelled as team captain of the 1985 New England Patriots, AFC Championship Team. Holloway was also a keynote speaker at the conference. Joel, Jeremy and Gary had a great time at the conference and are looking forward to attending next year’s conference.

Summer Bishop - Marketing Support

Spotlight on Chloe

It’s Chloe Hudson's turn to be interviewed for Champion’s Spotlight.

Chloe has been with Champion since 2001.  She is on the contents crew, so if you ever experiece a fire damage, more than likely Chloe will be coming to pack out your house.  Now, let’s get to know Chloe:

What is your favorite snack? Popcorn.

 

What is your favorite piece of clothing?

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