Below are a few fender philosophies we've seen recently:

• Hang up and drive.
• A waist is a terrible thing to mind.
• Air Pollution is a mist-demeaner.
• Anything free is worth what you pay for it.
• Does the name Pavlov ring a bell?
• Editing is a rewording activity.
• Everyone is entitled to my opinion.
• Help stamp out and eradicate superfluous redundancy.
• The only time the world beats a path to your door is if you're in the bathroom.

Ya Gotta Think Big

If you're currently in the design phase of a new or expansion project, we can't overstress the value of thinking ahead. If your facility is performing so well that you have to expand now, why not plan for continued growth? If reasonably designed and built, your new structure should return much better numbers than your existing operation. With attention to site selection, utilities, layout and design, your new building can be built at a reasonable cost now and allow for a very economical (i.e., profitable) expansion in the future. Pre-planning will allow for a low-cost, aesthetically pleasing and minimally disruptive addition. You'll also keep the planning board happy by showing the "future wing" on your initial site plan. This normally helps speed up the subsequent approval process.

Interpreting The Signs

Watch body language for clues about someone's intentions or feelings. For example:

• Arms clasped behind one's back can mean I'm at ease; the situation is under control.
• Arms folded across the chest can mean defensiveness: "I don't want to listen to that."
• Hands on hips and elbows jutting out can mean, "Stay away from me."
• Legs crossed, one foot jiggling can mean, "I'm Bored."
• A fist covered by an open hand can indicate the person is furious, but struggling to stay in control.

A very successful businessman had a meeting with his new son-in-law. "I love my daughter, and now I welcome you into the family," said the man. "To show you how much we care for you, I'm making you a 50-50 partner in my business. All you have to do is go the factory every day and learn the operation." The son-in-law interrupted. "I hate factories. I can't stand the noise." "I see," replied the father-in-law. "Well, then you'll work in the office and take charge of some of the operations." "I hate office work," said the son-in-law. "I can't stand being stuck behind a desk." "Wait a minute," said the father-in-law. "I just made you half-owner of a money-making organization, but you don't like factories and won't work in an office. What am I going to do with you?" "Easy," said the young man. "Buy me out."

-from Gene Perrett's Funny Business

Sound Advice

"Be nice to your kids. They'll choose your nursing home."

In the trenches-if you've got a project with us, chances are project coordinator Mike Gebhard handles at least some of the numerous tasks required to keep your project on track. His 14+ years construction experience are evident as he deals daily with schedules, suppliers, design professionals and clients.