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Are You a Distracted Driver?

Mon, 20 Apr 2026 14:25:54 GMT

Do you know how long it takes to send or read a text and take your eyes off the road? Five seconds. It only takes seconds for a car crash to happen. April is National Distracted Driving Awareness Month. It’s a poignant reminder of the importance of staying focused on the road. This initiative, spearheaded by Shelly Forney after the tragic loss of her daughter in 2008, serves as a sobering call to action for drivers everywhere. As we reflect on the significance of this month, let's explore some practical strategies to mitigate distractions and promote safer truck driving habits.

Stay Connected with Safety: The allure of our smartphones is undeniable, but using them while driving poses a significant risk. According to the Defensive Driving Institute, 8% of fatal crashes were reported as distraction-related. In 2025, Governor Shapiro of Pennsylvania signed into law ( Paul Miller’s Law ) that makes it illegal to use a hand-held device while driving, even while stopped at a red light. Even though there is a text-while-driving ban, Paul Miller’s Law forces people to put the phone down while their vehicle is in motion.

Prep Before You Drive: Modern vehicles come equipped with an array of distractions right at our fingertips. Take a proactive approach by setting your radio stations, adjusting temperature controls, and programming your GPS before hitting the road. These seemingly innocuous tasks can demand significant attention, equivalent to engaging in a phone conversation. By minimizing these distractions, we can maintain focus on the primary task at hand: driving safely.

Fuel for the Road, Not Distractions: In our fast-paced lives, the temptation to multitask extends to eating and drinking behind the wheel. However, the risks far outweigh the convenience. Not only does eating while driving increase the likelihood of spills and stains, but it's also against the law in many jurisdictions. For truck drivers, prioritize safety and compliance by taking regular breaks to refuel both yourself and your vehicle. Remember, a few extra minutes spent off the road can prevent a lifetime of regret.

As we navigate National Distracted Driving Awareness Month, let's pledge to prioritize safety behind the wheel. By adopting proactive measures to mitigate distractions and promoting a culture of responsibility, we can collectively strive towards safer roads for all. At Empire Group, we are committed to ensuring the safety of affiliate truck drivers and the public through the latest safety training.

Elk Environmental Spotlight: Lab Packing

Fri, 03 Apr 2026 20:29:35 GMT

Lab Pack Disposal: Safe and Compliant Chemical Management for Schools, Labs, and Hospitals

Laboratories, schools, and healthcare facilities often accumulate chemicals over time, ranging from outdated reagents to small volumes of unknown substances. Even chemicals that appear harmless can pose hazards if they are expired, improperly labeled, or stored without a plan. All can put your organization at risk.

Unmanaged inventories create not only immediate safety concerns, such as chemical reactions or exposure, but also long-term compliance and liability issues. Facility managers must consider the impact of inspections, renovations, and potential accidents when these materials are left unchecked. That’s where Elk Environmental Services (Elk) comes in.

Addressing chemical hazards is one of the core services at Elk Environmental Services, one of our affiliates. By removing outdated or unidentified chemicals before an incident occurs, Elk chemists help institutions protect staff, students, and patients while reducing exposure to regulatory penalties. Professional services, such as lab packing services for waste products , offer a structured approach that ensures compliance with federal and state requirements while minimizing disruption to daily operations.

Article Highlights

Unidentified and expired laboratory chemicals create serious safety and compliance risks long before an incident occurs.
Lab pack disposal is often the fastest and safest way to remove hazardous chemicals during inspections, cleanouts, and facility transitions.
Improper chemical storage can expose schools, labs, and hospitals to regulatory violations and long-term liability.
Professional lab pack services reduce risk by ensuring proper identification, segregation, and compliant disposal.
Elk Environmental Services helps institutions resolve chemical waste challenges before they become compliance issues.

Lab Packing Disposal: A Proven Solution at Elk

Lab packing provides a safe and compliant method to manage hazardous chemicals, particularly in facilities with complex inventories. By consolidating small containers into approved drums and ensuring proper labeling, institutions can reduce the risk of accidental reactions during storage and transport. The Elk team has extensive experience providing these services across the Mid-Atlantic region, helping schools, hospitals, laboratories, and businesses meet safety standards while maintaining operational continuity.

Not sure where to begin? Elk has seen a variety of lab pack disposal situations in their 38+ years in business! That means they can help you ensure regulatory compliance with EPA, OSHA, and DOT standards. They’ll remove chemicals efficiently, maintain detailed documentation for audits, and protect administrators from potential liability. The structured process reduces stress on staff and ensures that hazardous materials are managed responsibly from start to finish.

Who Benefits From Lab Packing Disposal Services

Schools and universities with teaching and research laboratories face unique challenges in managing a wide range of chemicals used in experiments and instruction. Hospitals and healthcare facilities store regulated reagents and disinfectants that require careful disposal to avoid staff or patient exposure. Similarly, commercial and research laboratories experience constant changes in chemical usage, necessitating regular cleanouts to remain compliant.

Despite operational differences, these environments share common regulatory pressures and safety concerns. Professional lab pack services provide a reliable solution, helping institutions identify hazards, segregate chemicals, and dispose of them safely. Partnering with a trusted provider ensures that all chemicals are handled correctly, compliance is maintained, and facility managers can focus on operations rather than risk management.

The Risks of Improper Chemical Storage and Disposal

Failure to manage chemicals correctly can lead to severe safety hazards, including fires, chemical reactions, or exposure to toxic substances. In one analysis of laboratory incidents , nearly 40% of recorded accidents were linked to improper storage or handling of chemicals. Environmental contamination is another concern, as improperly disposed of chemicals can pollute soil and water and require expensive remediation efforts. Regulatory violations can result in significant fines and increase the liability for administrators and facility managers.

Delaying disposal often magnifies these risks. Chemicals may degrade, containers may corrode, and hazards can multiply over time, creating more complex challenges. Proactive lab pack disposal mitigates these dangers, reducing both safety risks and long-term costs. While resources such as the EPA Hazardous Waste Overview provide guidance, it’s professional services that ensure facilities adhere to all regulatory and safety standards without guesswork.

How Elk Environmental Services Manages Lab Pack Disposal

Elk Environmental Services follows a systematic process to manage hazardous chemicals safely. Their team perform on-site chemical identification, taking inventory of all materials before proceeding. Chemicals are then segregated by compatibility and packed into certified drums with proper labeling, ensuring safe handling during transport. Licensed carriers deliver the drums to approved disposal facilities, completing the process with full regulatory compliance.

Beyond physical disposal, we emphasize safety and operational continuity. Staff receive guidance throughout the process, and all documentation is maintained to satisfy audit requirements. Facilities benefit from the combination of Elk’s hazardous waste disposal and compliance expertise, which simplifies inspections, reduces risk, and ensures that hazardous chemicals are managed responsibly from start to finish.

Compliance, Documentation, and Regulatory Confidence

Maintaining manifests, labels, and accurate records is crucial for meeting EPA, OSHA, and DOT requirements. Professional lab packing services simplify this process, providing facilities with peace of mind during inspections and audits. Partnering with an experienced provider reduces administrative burden and ensures that all chemicals are handled in accordance with local, state, and federal regulations. The PHMSA Hazardous Materials Regulations guide the safe transport of hazardous substances, reinforcing the need for professional management.

By combining proper documentation with professional disposal, institutions not only protect staff and the environment but also maintain long-term regulatory confidence. Elk Environmental Services ensures that compliance is integrated throughout every step of the process, creating a safe and controlled approach to chemical management.

Final Thoughts: A Safer Approach to Chemical Management

Lab pack disposal is a crucial tool for facilities aiming to maintain safety, compliance, and environmental responsibility. Partnering with a trusted provider, such as Elk Environmental, allows schools, hospitals, and laboratories to remove outdated, excess, or unknown chemicals before they become a hazard or regulatory concern. Proactive chemical management protects staff, students, and patients while minimizing long-term liability and operational disruption.

Institutions ready to take control of their chemical inventories can contact Elk today to schedule a lab packing. By addressing hazardous materials before they become problems, facilities can ensure safe, compliant, and efficient operations for years to come.

Happy National Ladder Safety Month

Fri, 06 Mar 2026 20:21:03 GMT

March Is National Ladder Safety Month:

Are You Preventing Falls?

Every year, March is recognized as National Ladder Safety Month, a national campaign dedicated to reducing ladder-related injuries and fatalities in the workplace and at home. As we move through 2026, workplace safety remains a top priority for employers, contractors, and safety professionals across industries.

Falls from ladders continue to rank among the leading causes of workplace injuries. According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), thousands of workers are injured annually due to preventable ladder accidents. National Ladder Safety Month serves as a timely reminder that proper training, regular equipment inspection, and heightened awareness of hazards can save lives.

What Exactly Is National Ladder Safety Month?

National Ladder Safety Month is an annual safety initiative led by the American Ladder Institute , in partnership with safety organizations, employers, and industry leaders. The campaign focuses on:

Raising awareness about ladder-related hazards
Promoting proper ladder selection and use
Encouraging employee training and certification
Reducing workplace injuries and OSHA violations

Each week in March typically highlights a different theme of ladder safety—from inspection and setup to safe climbing practices and responsible equipment storage. This year’s themes are:

Week One: Choosing the Right Ladder
Week Two: Check Before You Climb
Week Three: Set It Up Safely
Week Four: Climb Safely, Work Safely
Week Five: Safe Steps with Stepstools

Why Ladder Safety Still Matters in 2026

Despite advances in safety equipment and training programs, ladder accidents remain common. The primary causes include:

Using the wrong ladder type
Improper ladder setup or angle
Standing on the top step
Carrying tools while climbing
Failing to inspect equipment before use

Industries most affected include construction, warehousing, maintenance, telecommunications, and retail operations. However, ladder-related injuries also occur in office environments and residential settings.

The cost of ladder accidents extends beyond medical bills. Employers may face:

Workers’ compensation claims
OSHA penalties
Lost productivity
Increased insurance premiums
Reputational damage

National Ladder Safety Month provides a strategic opportunity to reduce risk while strengthening safety culture.

Elk Environmental Services' Ladder Safety Training

Did you know Elk Environmental Services', one of our affiliates, offers ladder safety training? Trainers Ed Clemas and Jamie Caron bring you the latest ladder safety practices in the workplace to help keep you safe and to avoid fines.

If you and/or your team cannot attend their in-person ladder safety trainings , they do offer them online. We provide you with OSHA's requirements for ensuring safety to the highest possible standard in the workplace.

When you have finished the training, you'll be better informed on the hazards, selection, types, use, and maintenance required to reduce the risk of injury from ladder hazards.

Contact Ed Clemas at elktraining@esreading.com to schedule your ladder safety training!

Wrapping Up Winter

Thu, 19 Feb 2026 19:34:52 GMT

As we look forward to welcoming spring, we’re reflecting on some of the exciting projects completed by Empire Group affiliates over the past few months. It’s been a pleasure helping our customers achieve their goals. From snow removal to dismantling a clarifier, our teams have taken on a wide range of projects.

Let’s take a closer look at a few highlights.

A Big Snowstorm

In addition to our affiliates providing turnkey services, we also provide complete snow removal for parking lots of various sizes. We had a big snowstorm in January-a substantial amount! While many ended up enjoying a snow day, crews from DVC and Empire Services were hard at work providing exceptional snow removal at parking lots and neighborhoods all over Berks County.

A "Giant" Article for Demolition Magazine

We are excited to announce we’ve been published! Demolition magazine published Empire Services’ article on the dismantling of a giant clarifier in Delaware County, PA.

A Custom Pump House

When a client’s pump house began to deteriorate, Elk Environmental Services delivered a smart, long-lasting solution. Designed by Vice President Russ Mountjoy and expertly built by their team, the new pump house was constructed inside a 40-foot conex box to support sampling for landfill needs and installed within a containment area.

Project highlights include:

✔️ Two fabricated 1,500-gallon tanks with overflow for efficient cleaning and waste removal.

✔️ Stainless steel piping and valves connecting sampling holes to tanks, complete with a back-flush system to keep lines clean after sampling.

✔️ Integrated air compressor and stainless steel piping to and from double diaphragm pumps for reliable waste discharge into tanks.

✔️ Anti-slip mesh flooring for added safety and traction.

All work was completed for a property owner and approved by an environmental consultant to ensure full compliance with DEP reporting requirements.

Installing an Electrical Service for New Construction

Delaware Valley Utility Contractors (DVUC) continues to leave a decisive imprint on residential growth in New Jersey, contributing essential electrical infrastructure to a new townhome community. This multi-stage utility undertaking highlights DVUC’s expertise in underground electrical systems and reflects its commitment to enhancing thoughtfully designed developments across the region.

It's been a busy winter for Empire Group and its affiliates. We are grateful our affiliates were part of a variety of projects that helped customers complete their projects on time and on budget. We look forward to the projects we’ve scheduled this spring!

American Heart Month: Why CPR & AED Training Matters More Than Ever

Thu, 05 Feb 2026 15:48:08 GMT

February is American Heart Month, a powerful reminder that heart health (and heart safety) should never be taken lightly. While we often associate heart emergencies with hospitals or medical settings, the reality is far more personal and far closer to home.

In recent years, sudden cardiac arrest has made national headlines, affecting celebrities, professional athletes, politicians, and everyday people just like us. These events serve as a sobering reminder: cardiac emergencies don’t wait for the “right” place or time. They can happen anywhere—at a sporting event, during a community gathering, or even in a conference room.

When seconds matter, preparation makes all the difference.

CPR and AEDs: Knowing About Them Isn’t Enough

Most people recognize the terms CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation) and AED (automated external defibrillator). In an actual emergency, recognition alone won’t save a life, but confidence and proper training will.

Here are a few critical facts everyone should know:

The Golden Minutes
Brain damage can begin within seconds of cardiac arrest. After just four minutes without intervention, damage may be irreversible.

Survival Rate Decline
For every minute CPR and defibrillation are delayed, the chance of survival drops by 10%.

Effective CPR Compressions

High-quality CPR requires chest compressions at least two inches deep for adults, delivered consistently and correctly.

Cardiac Arrest Happens Outside Hospitals
According to the American Heart Association, over 350,000 cardiac arrests occur outside of hospitals each year, with more than 10,000 happening in workplace settings alone.

The right training can turn an ordinary person into a lifesaver.

How Elk Environmental Services Can Help

If you’re not 100% confident in your CPR skills or AED knowledge, Elk Environmental Services, one of our affiliates, is here to help. Elk's experienced trainers offer monthly First Aid and CPR training, designed to equip individuals and organizations with the knowledge and hands-on experience they need to respond confidently during an emergency.

Take the First Step Toward Saving a Life

Being prepared isn’t just smart—it’s responsible. And in a cardiac emergency, it can mean the difference between life and loss.

Schedule your training today by reaching out to Elk Environmental's Ed Clemas or Jamie Caron and take the first step toward CPR certification. Because you never know when someone will need you to step up!

Elk Environmental Services
Your Partner in Safety & Preparedness

Ed Clemas – eclemas@esreading.com
Jamie Caron – jamiec@elkenv.com

10 Waste Management FAQs: What Businesses Need to Know in 2026

Fri, 23 Jan 2026 18:24:28 GMT

Managing waste responsibly is crucial for all industrial, commercial, and municipal operations. Whether your facility generates hazardous, non-hazardous, residual, universal, or industrial waste, staying compliant protects your business and the environment.

Elk Environmental Services (Elk), one of our affiliates, supports organizations across Pennsylvania and the Mid-Atlantic with cradle-to-grave waste management solutions , emergency response , and compliance training , among other services. Below are 10 of the most frequently asked questions Elk receives from businesses seeking to streamline their waste management programs.

1. What services does Elk Environmental provide for waste generators?

Elk manages hazardous and non-hazardous waste, residual waste, universal waste, industrial waste, and special waste streams. Services include waste profiling, packaging, transportation, disposal, waste training for EHS professionals, spill response, industrial cleaning, and vacuum truck operations. Elk's goal is to provide safe, compliant, and cost-effective solutions for every type of generator.

2. What is the difference between a Large Quantity Generator (LQG) and a Small Quantity Generator (SQG)?

These generator categories are defined by how much hazardous waste a facility generates in a single month, which remains an important baseline even for facilities managing multiple waste types.

Large Quantity Generator (LQG): Generates 1,000 kg (≈2,200 lb.) or more of hazardous waste in a month, or 1 kg (≈2.2 lb.) or more of acutely hazardous waste.
Small Quantity Generator (SQG): Generates more than 100 kg (≈220 lb.) but less than 1,000 kg of hazardous waste in a month.
Very Small Quantity Generator (VSQG): Generates 100 kg (≈220 lb.) or less hazardous waste in a month, including no more than 1 kg (≈2.2 lb.) of acutely hazardous waste.

Many facilities use similar internal thresholds to categorize overall waste output and determine storage practices, required plans, and training needs. Elk helps facilities assess their generation levels and align their compliance responsibilities.

3. How long can waste be stored onsite?

Storage time limits depend on the type and quantity of waste generated, but general federal thresholds include:

LQGs: Up to 90 days of onsite accumulation.
SQGs: Up to 180 days, or 270 days if waste must be transported 200 miles or more.
VSQGs: No federal time limit is set for onsite accumulation, but generators must manage waste safely and in compliance with local regulations.

Even non-hazardous, universal, or residual waste streams often have labeling and storage requirements designed to prevent spills, mismanagement, or compliance gaps.

4. Does Elk Environmental provide waste pickup and disposal?

Yes. Elk provides turnkey collection, transportation, and disposal for hazardous and non-hazardous waste, including industrial waste, residual waste, universal waste, sludge, wastewater, contaminated materials, and bulk solid and liquid wastes. They handle a variety of shipment types, from LTL shipments in drums, totes, and pails to full loads in Cubic Yard Boxes (CYBs). The team also manages profiling, labeling, manifests, and all required documentation, ensuring safe, compliant, and efficient service for every type of waste stream.

5. Is there any training needed for a generator to sign a manifest?

Yes, a generator will need:

DOT Hazmat Training (49 CFR 172.704), which covers general awareness, function-specific knowledge (classification, packaging, marking, labeling, placarding), and security awareness, as defined in 49 CFR Part 172, Subpart H.

RCRA (Resource Conservation and Recovery Act) Training , which addresses EPA’s hazardous waste management rules, including emergency preparedness specific to your generator status (e.g., Large Quantity Generator).

6. What are the most common compliance issues for waste generators?

Common issues Elk sees across industries include:

Incomplete or incorrect waste characterization
Missing or improper container labels
Storing materials beyond allowable time limits
Lack of up-to-date training or missing documentation
Outdated contingency or emergency plans
Incomplete manifests or shipping paperwork

7. What training programs does Elk Environmental Services offer?

Elk offers a complete suite of compliance and safety training, including:

RCRA Waste Management Training
DOT Hazardous Materials Transportation Training
HAZWOPER
Spill Response and Emergency Preparedness
Customized On-site Training

Training is available in person or online and meets state and federal regulatory requirements.

8. What information must be included on a non-hazardous manifest?

Typical manifests include:

Generator’s name, address, and identification number
Transporter information and license number
Receiving facility details and permit number
Description of the waste (type, quantity, and physical form)
Waste code or classification
Date of shipment and signatures from generator, transporter, and receiver

Some states (like Pennsylvania) have specific manifest forms and digital systems (e.g., PA DEP’s Residual Waste Manifest System).

9. Does Elk Environmental offer vacuum truck services?

Yes. Their vacuum truck fleet supports a wide range of operational and environmental needs, including:

Sludge and wastewater removal
Tank cleaning and industrial pit cleanouts
Spill cleanup and contaminated material removal
Storm sewer and stormwater system maintenance
Support for environmental remediation

They provide both scheduled and emergency response services.

10. How can Elk Environmental help with emergency spill response?

Elk offers 24/7 emergency response for chemical spills, transportation incidents, industrial releases, and environmental emergencies. Their team handles containment, cleanup, waste removal, regulatory reporting, and full documentation.

If your facility requires an SPCC (Spill Prevention, Control, and Countermeasure) plan, Elk can be utilized as a first responder spill contractor in your plan.

Need help managing your waste streams? Elk Environmental Services can support your operations.

Whether you generate hazardous waste, non-hazardous waste, residual materials, or a combination of industrial waste streams, Elk Environmental Services offers the expertise, documentation support, and field services needed to stay safe and compliant.

�� Contact Elk today!

A Look Back at 2025

Mon, 12 Jan 2026 17:58:19 GMT

With the start of a new year, businesses reflect on the success they had in the last 12 months. They also take the time to appreciate their customers. At Empire Group, we truly appreciate our customers, and the variety of projects awarded to our affiliates. Below are some project and event highlights from last year.

Empire Services

Every demolition project presents its own unique challenges, and at Empire Services, they are always prepared to meet them head-on with the most effective approach born from decades of ingenuity and extensive experience.

The crew worked on a select building demolition in downtown Reading, PA. This historic building had a partially collapsed roof and compromised walls. In an attempt to salvage the structure, they used two hydraulic truck cranes to accomplish the task at hand.

Unfortunately, after the failing portions were removed, it was determined the building was not safe and needed to be totally removed. Empire Services mobilized one of their 95-foot UHD excavators and completely demolished the unstable structure. The site is currently a green space awaiting future development.

Delaware Valley Contractors (DVC)

DVC assisted affiliate Empire Services in the demolition of a community pool in East Reading, PA. One of DVC's tri-axle dump trucks skillfully backed into the job site through a gated entrance to haul away loads of excavated soil and concrete. The debris was safely transported to a local disposal facility. The demolition cleared the way for a splash park and parking lot. The pool was featured in the 1970 film Rabbit, Run based on the novel by Berks County native John Updike.

The 30th Annual Empire Group Golf Classic

On behalf of the Empire Group, we would like to offer our sincere thanks to everyone who participated in our Annual Golf Classic on October 4th at the beautiful Galen Hall Golf Club in Wernersville, PA. Read more at https://www.esreading.com/empire-group-hosts-30th-annual-golf-classic !

Happy Retirement, Todd! (Empire Services)

After 42 years of dedication, leadership, and hard work, Todd Quinter retired, leaving behind an incredible legacy at Empire Services. We celebrated his remarkable career with a wonderful retirement lunch at Empire Group and thanked Todd for his years of expertise, guidance, and commitment. While we’ll miss his leadership, we wish him joy, adventure, and well-earned relaxation in this next chapter!

Elk Environmental Services

Meet the newest addition to Elk Environmental Services ' fleet — the Powervac 5300 Wet & Dry SS316! Built to tackle the toughest hazardous and non-hazardous waste jobs, this powerhouse delivers:

Russ Oswalt Farewell (DVC)

After 33 years of unwavering dedication, leadership, and hard work, Russ Oswalt stepped into a new chapter of his career, leaving behind an incredible legacy at DVC. As Vice President of Transportation, Russ was a driving force in shaping the company's success and growth. While we’ll miss his expertise and leadership, we’re excited to see what the future holds for him. Thank you, Russ, for everything you’ve done for DVC. To celebrate, we had a wonderful time at Russ’s farewell lunch at Empire Group.

The Empire Group Timeline

Empire Group celebrated 70 years of service, growth, and innovation! To mark this milestone, we created a special timeline that highlighted key moments, achievements, and memories that shaped our journey.

From the early days to major growth in the 1970s, the timeline came together as a heartfelt look back at our history. We’re excited to share this visual journey with everyone! Read more at https://www.esreading.com/celebrating-70-years-with-an-inspiring-timeline .

Delaware Valley Utility Contractors (DVUC)

Whether you need a single-phase or three-phase system installed or replaced, the DVUC team has the equipment and skills to get the job done. They completed a complex project consisting of installing 1/0 primary wires from switch gears to a power pole and from a switch gear to a submersible transformer in a residential development:

• A three-phase bundled 1/0 primary (820 feet)

• A three-phase primary 1/0 (420 feet)

• A single-phase 1/0 primary wire

Before we get into the hectic pace of 2026, we just wanted to take a moment to thank our customers for their business and support. The projects completed by our affiliates demonstrate our experience and capabilities to provide exceptional customer experiences. We look forward to serving our customers this year and helping them achieve their project goals!

Breakfast with Santa

Tue, 09 Dec 2025 14:42:56 GMT

The holiday season came alive on Saturday, December 6th, as over 30 children gathered for Empire Group’s annual Breakfast with Santa event at the Mohnton Fire Company in Mohnton, PA. This annual tradition kicked off the holiday season for Empire Group employees and their families.

A Festive Morning Full of Fun and Laughter

The event, which began at 9 AM, was filled with excitement and joy. As the children eagerly awaited Santa’s arrival, they kept busy with festive arts and crafts. They colored mini holiday-themed coloring books with fun crayons and decorated gingerbread ornaments, adding even more holiday spirit to the morning.

As the clock ticked closer to Santa’s arrival, anticipation grew. When Santa finally made his entrance, the room erupted in delighted cheers. Each child had the chance to sit on Santa’s lap, share their wish list, and receive a gift. From trash trucks and pirate sets to lego and diamond dot sets, every child left with a thoughtful gift, making it a truly magical experience for all.

A Delicious Holiday Breakfast for All Ages

While the kids waited for Santa, families were treated to a hearty breakfast buffet. The spread featured classic favorites that everyone could enjoy, including:

Fluffy pancakes
Crispy scrapple
Bacon and sausages
Scrambled eggs
French toast
Fruit bowls

The breakfast was the perfect complement to the holiday festivities, offering a cozy, warm meal for families to share together.

Creating Lasting Memories

As the event wrapped up around 11:30 AM, children left with not only smiles on their faces but also goodie bags and gifts in hand. The morning was a wonderful reminder of the importance of community and the joy of giving during the holiday season.

The breakfast also marked the last event of the year for Empire Group employees and their families, making it even more special. A heartfelt thank you goes out to everyone who helped make this event a success, including Tonia Carlile and Ellen Ganime. We also send a special thank you to Todd & Karen O'Neill, Harry & Cathy O'Neill, Billy Ruth, and the Mohnton Fire Company. We can’t wait for next year’s Breakfast with Santa!

Giving Thanks for a Year of Teamwork and Triumph at Empire Group

Thu, 20 Nov 2025 21:02:34 GMT

As Thanksgiving approaches, Empire Group is taking a moment to reflect on a year filled with progress and meaningful connections. At the heart of every success story are our dedicated, hardworking employees whose expertise and commitment to excellence power everything we do. This season, and every season, we are very grateful for each and every member of the Empire family.

Celebrating Our Team Through Employee Appreciation Events

To honor the amazing people who make our company great, we hold employee appreciation events throughout the year. These events let employees relax and enjoy time together, and celebrate the teamwork that makes our company successful.

One of the year’s highlights was a fun-filled day at Knoebels Amusement Resort, where employees and their families’ enjoyed rides, games, and an amazing lunch. We also teed off at our Annual Empire Group Golf Classic, a favorite tradition that brings together employees from our affiliates for a day of friendly competition and camaraderie.

These events are just a small way for us to say thank you for the passion, skill, and dedication our employees bring to their roles every single day.

Supporting Our Community Together

This year also gave us the honor of participating in several community events. Our employees proudly represented Empire Group at:

Touch-A-Truck
Make-A-Wish Mother’s Day Convoy
National Night Out
Berks Fall Fest

At each event, their enthusiasm and pride were unmistakable, from ensuring our vehicles looked their best to engaging with families, local organizations, and community partners. Their commitment extends far beyond the jobsite; it plays a vital role in strengthening the communities we serve.

Showcasing Our Unique Projects and Services

At Empire Group, we take immense pride in the diverse range of services our affiliates provide across various industries. This year, they had the privilege of working on several standout projects that showcased the talent and expertise of their employees. Here are just a few highlights:

Empire Services : The team recently completed one of their most complex demolition projects. They dismantled an enormous clarifier measuring 198 feet in diameter and 20 feet below ground.

With no on-grade access, they lifted equipment into the structure using multiple cranes, including lowering a JLG 450 AJ articulating boom lift with a 75-ton crane. Once inside the tank, the crew built a scaffold stair tower for long-term access and skillfully removed and lifted every steel piece back out of the tank.

The project also included demolishing a former control building — all completed safely, efficiently, and ahead of schedule.

Elk Environmental Services : Known for the industrial cleaning expertise, the crew cleaned extrusion and conveyor lines at a plastics manufacturer. Using one of their vactor trucks, the waste was safely transported to a local disposal facility.

A Heartfelt Thank You

As we gather with friends and family this Thanksgiving, we want to extend our deepest appreciation to all our employees. Their hard work shapes our legacy, fuels our growth, and inspires everything we strive for as a company.

Happy Thanksgiving from Empire Group!

What's New This Fall at Empire Group

Mon, 10 Nov 2025 15:04:02 GMT

Fall is in full swing, and our affiliates are busy providing a variety of services to our customers. We take pride in helping them to reach their objectives. Here are some of the exciting projects and events over the past few months.

Empire Group Timeline Is Almost Done

The Empire Group timeline is nearly complete! Sorting through projects from each decade has brought back incredible memories — each one playing a key role in shaping who we are today.

We’re excited to share the full Empire Group story with you. Stay tuned… the final reveal is coming soon!

Happy Retirement Todd!

We had a wonderful time celebrating the retirement of Todd Quinter of Empire Services. After 42 years of dedication and leadership, Todd is leaving behind an incredible legacy. Thank you, Todd, for everything you’ve done for Empire Services. We wish you joy, adventure and well-earned relaxation in this next chapter.

A Successful Empire Group Golf Classic

On behalf of the Empire Group, we would like to offer our sincere thanks to everyone who participated in our Annual Golf Classic on October 4 ^th at the beautiful Galen Hall Golf Club in Wernersville, PA. Read more at https://www.esreading.com/empire-group-hosts-30th-annual-golf-classic !

The Excavation Of a New Elevator Pit

At Albright College’s Gingrich Library, the Empire Services team performed the excavation of a new elevator pit in the sub-basement of the building (it was full of bedrock!).

But first, the team had to be creative and crane lift all of the necessary equipment into the building via the new elevator shaft opening. They skillfully maneuvered the equipment five stories down the to work area. That’s just another example of how Empire Services conquers tough challenges with precision, safety, and ingenuity. We are excited for the completion of the brand new academic hub!

Transporting Equipment for a Local Excavation Company

Check out this recent haul—a bulldozer transported by Delaware Valley Contractors (DVC) from Ephrata to Morgantown, PA for a local excavating company. Whether your next move is across town or across state lines, DVC has the fleet, experience, and reliability to get the job done safely and on time.

As we head into the colder months, we look forward to the projects our affiliates have scheduled. We are thankful for the opportunity to work on these projects, which enabled our affiliates to help their customers to achieve their goals. We are also thankful for everyone who works behind the scenes to keep our affiliates operating safely and efficiently!

Putting Safety First: The Top OSHA Workplace Violations of 2025

Mon, 27 Oct 2025 19:01:57 GMT

Workplace safety is more than a regulatory requirement—it’s a responsibility. A safe and healthy work environment protects employees, boosts productivity, and strengthens overall job satisfaction. Yet, many preventable injuries and fatalities still occur each year because of inadequate safety gear, lack of enforcement, or insufficient training.

To spotlight areas where improvement is needed, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration ( OSHA ) releases its annual list of the Top 10 Most Frequently Cited Safety Standards. These violations serve as a reminder that safety must remain a top priority for every employer. Below are the top five OSHA workplace safety violations for fiscal year 2025 across the nation:

1. Fall Protection – General Requirement (OSHA Standard No. 1926.501)

For the 15th year in a row, fall protection remains the most frequently cited OSHA standard, with 5,914 violations . Falls are one of the leading causes of serious work-related injuries and deaths, making proper fall protection essential in construction and other high-risk industries.

2. Hazard Communication (OSHA Standard No. 1910.1200)

With 2,546 violations , hazard communication continues to hold the number two spot. This standard ensures workers understand the risks of chemicals they handle—both those used on-site and those imported into a facility.

3. Ladders (OSHA Standard No. 1926.1053)

Ladder safety remains a concern, ranking third again this year with 2,405 violations . This standard covers all ladder types, including extension, job-made, wooden, and step ladders. Proper setup, inspection, and usage can help prevent many of these incidents.

4. Lockout/Tagout (OSHA Standard No. 1910.147)

Moving up this year, Lockout/Tagout received 2,177 violations . These procedures are designed to prevent accidental energization of machinery, which can lead to electrocutions, burns, and severe injuries such as lacerations and fractures.

5. Respiratory Protection (OSHA Standard No. 1910.134)

Dropping to fifth place, respiratory protection recorded 1,953 violations . This standard applies to a wide range of industries—including general industry, construction, shipyards, and marine terminals—where workers may be exposed to harmful airborne contaminants.

A Continued Commitment to Safety

It’s worth noting that most of these standards remain in the top five year after year. This consistency underscores the importance of proactive safety management, ongoing training, and a culture that prioritizes worker protection.

At Empire Group, safety is at the heart of everything we do. Our affiliate, Elk Environmental Services, provides a comprehensive range of health and safety trainings designed to protect workers and help companies stay compliant. Elk’s expert health and safety trainers deliver the latest OSHA-compliant courses and consulting services to businesses that may not have a full-time safety representative.

To learn more about Elk Environmental training programs or to schedule a consultation, contact Jamie Caron or Ed Clemas at elktraining@esreading.com .

Empire Group Hosts 30th Annual Golf Classic

Mon, 13 Oct 2025 21:21:35 GMT

Empire Group Hosts

30th Annual Golf Classic

at Galen Hall Golf Club

On behalf of the Empire Group, we would like to offer our sincere thanks to everyone who participated in our Annual Golf Classic on October 4 ^th at the beautiful Galen Hall Golf Club in Wernersville, PA. It’s hard to believe this was our 30 ^th year of the tournament!

Although this was our first time hosting the event at this historic venue, Empire Group has deep roots at Galen Hall — our affiliate, Empire Services, demolished the original Galen Hall Hotel back in 1963 following a devastating fire. Since then, the golf club has remained a local landmark, known for its scenic views and welcoming atmosphere.

Despite the cool early morning, 99 golfers were warmed up and ready for the 8 AM shot gun start leading to some fun but competitive golfing. After the final putt dropped, everyone gathered for a hearty lunch followed by the award ceremonies. Shout out to the winners of all categories and the raffle!

Tournament Results

First Place: Jey Newswanger, Brent Gosser, Cody Wagner, and Grant Sholly — 16 under par

Second Place: Ryan Miller, Chris Morton, Jason Delewski, and Robert Hebner — 15 under par

Third Place: Barry Hall, Vince Mitsky, Pat Detweiler, and Joe Moser — 13 under par

Closest to the Pin:

· Hole #7: Troy Potthoff

· Hole #10: Dan Koziel

· Hole #15: Cody Wagner

Longest Drive:

· Hole #12: JT Tomascik

A Big Thank You

We’d like to extend our sincere appreciation to everyone who helped make this event possible:

Karen O’Neill

Jey Newswanger

Allen Dejewski

Chris Gring

Ellen Ganime

Jack Schoener

Lauren Bohning

Ryleigh Bohning

Brenda Marks

A special thank-you goes out to Todd & Karen O’Neill and Harry & Cathy O’Neill — without them we could not do this every year!

Thank you to all the players and volunteers who came out to celebrate with us. We look forward to seeing everyone again next year for another great day of golf.

Wrapping Up an Exciting Summer

Mon, 29 Sep 2025 17:47:30 GMT

It was an exciting summer at Empire Group , where our affiliates went above and beyond to deliver exceptional results. From dismantling a giant shark tank to celebrating the hard work and dedication of our employees, we proved once again that reliability and expertise are at the core of everything we do. By keeping projects on schedule and within budget, Empire Group continues to be the trusted partner for demolition, excavation, and specialized contracting services across the region. Take a look at some of some project highlights.

Dismantling a Giant Shark Tank

A Thorough Cleaning Before Decommissioning

Handling Trash Control at The Berks County Fair

A National Night Out to Remember

Family Fun Day at Knoebels

Celebrating Big Milestones

As we wrap up an incredible summer, Empire Group is proud to reflect on the projects, milestones, and celebrations that showcase who we are — a team dedicated to reliability, expertise, and community. From tackling complex demolition and environmental services to supporting local events and honoring our employees, we continue to build trust across the region. With 70 years of experience and a future full of opportunity, Empire Group remains the go-to partner for demolition, excavation, transportation, environmental services, utility installation, and waste management. We look forward to delivering excellence on every project, big or small.

National Preparedness Month: Is Your Business Ready for the Next Big Storm?

Fri, 12 Sep 2025 21:10:00 GMT

September is National Preparedness Month, a nationwide initiative launched by the Federal Emergency Management Agency ( FEMA ) after 9/11 to encourage Americans to prioritize safety and disaster readiness. For businesses—especially those in construction, development, or field-based industries—this month is a critical reminder: Are you truly prepared for severe weather?

With hurricane season peaking in September and extreme weather events becoming more frequent and intense, having a solid emergency response plan isn’t optional—it’s essential.

2024: A Wake-Up Call for Emergency Preparedness

Last year has been one for the record books when it comes to natural disasters. Just look at the data:

Tornadoes broke records in six states:
New York (32), Ohio (74), Oklahoma (152), West Virginia (20), Iowa (125), and Illinois (142).
Hurricane Beryl became one of the earliest Category 5 storms ever recorded, part of a hurricane season that brought 18 named storms, with seven forming after September—another new record.
Even traditionally "safe" regions weren’t spared. In a single hour, five tornadoes touched down in Pennsylvania, highlighting a new trend of severe weather events reaching areas like New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut.

These aren’t outliers—they're the new norm. And they underscore a simple truth: Every business needs a safety plan.

Key Questions: Is Your Job Site Ready?

As unpredictable weather events grow more common, now is the time to evaluate your emergency protocols. Ask yourself:

Do your employees know where to go during a severe storm?
Are you aware of post-storm hazards like downed power lines, gas leaks, or structural damage?
Is your job site equipped to handle flooding, a fire, or high winds?
How are your workers protected during cleanup operations?
Do your workers know first aid and CPR?

If you’re not confident in your answers, you’re not alone—and that’s exactly why National Preparedness Month exists.

Don’t Wait for the Storm: Let Elk Help You Prepare

Elk Environmental Services , one of our affiliates, has a Health & Safety Team specializing in custom emergency preparedness planning that meets all local, state, and federal compliance standards. Whether you're building a safety plan from the ground up or revising an outdated one, they are can guide you every step of the way.

Schedule Your Safety Consultation Today

Preparedness isn’t just good policy—it’s good business. Protect your team, your job sites, and your peace of mind. Schedule a safety consultation with Ed Clemas or Jamie Caron today to get started.

Another Great Family Fun Day at Knoebels

Thu, 28 Aug 2025 15:32:17 GMT

On Saturday, August 23rd, employees and their families gathered for a fantastic Empire Group Family Fun Day at Knoebels Amusement Resort in Elysburg, PA. This year's event was a big hit, with over 120 attendees coming together for a day filled with fun, food, and excitement.

Did you know that Knoebels’ Grand Carousel is one of the largest in the world, featuring 63 horses and 3 chariots? Or that the Flyer is the only ride of its kind that operates in a clockwise direction? Beyond the rides, guests also enjoyed various shows, museums, and games, with plenty of opportunities to win prizes.

A big thank you goes out to everyone who made this event possible:

Russ Mountjoy and his wife Kristi for putting together an amazing lunch, from providing the food to manning the grill.
Todd & Karen O’Neill and Harry & Cathy O’Neill . We truly appreciate this special time with our families and co-workers at this historic park.

Hard Hats, Helicopters & Hometown Pride: A National Night Out to Remember

Fri, 22 Aug 2025 16:07:11 GMT

It was a memorable evening at the Berks County Fairgrounds in Leesport for this year’s Northern Berks County National Night Out! With clear skies and great energy in the air, the community came together for an unforgettable night of connection, fun, and celebration.

A Great Turnout

Big Trucks & Big Smiles

When Every Second Counts: Trust Elk Environmental Services for 24/7 Emergency Spill Response

Fri, 11 Jul 2025 14:49:37 GMT

In times of crisis, reliability isn’t just a virtue—it’s a necessity. While qualities like loyalty and honesty are essential to any great company, when an environmental emergency strikes, the trait that matters most is the ability to act fast and effectively. That’s where Elk Environmental Services, an affiliate of Empire Group, truly stands out.

Why Reliability Matters in Environmental Emergencies

Whether it’s a fuel spill, chemical leak, or contaminated soil, environmental accidents require immediate attention. The company that responds quickly and knows exactly what to do is the one you’ll remember—and the one you’ll call again.

Elk Environmental Services offers 24/7 emergency spill response that goes beyond showing up fast. Their highly trained, experienced team is equipped to handle the unexpected with precision, care, and cost-effectiveness.

Case in Point: Fuel Spill Contained in New Albany, PA

Recently, Elk responded to a significant diesel fuel spill caused by a tractor-trailer accident in New Albany, PA. Approximately 60 gallons of diesel fuel and oil leaked from a ruptured saddle tank, threatening nearby water and soil.

Elk’s emergency response team was immediately dispatched to the scene. Their technicians deployed containment booms and absorbent pads and used a specialized bottle truck to extract oil from a nearby pond, swiftly preventing further contamination.

But their job didn’t stop there.

Elk crews went on to remediate the contaminated soil, restoring the site and providing environmental protection. This fast and comprehensive response exemplifies Elk’s commitment to safeguarding both nature and the communities they serve.

Why Choose Elk as Your Emergency Response Contractor?

When disaster strikes, Elk is ready—24 hours a day, 7 days a week. With service locations in Reading, PA, and Wysox, PA, Elk can respond within a 2-hour radius of each yard, making them one of the most reliable spill response providers in the region.

Whether the spill occurs on the road or at your facility, Elk’s experienced professionals are prepared with the right tools, training, and equipment to stabilize the situation and begin restoration immediately.

Sign Up for a FREE Emergency Response Contract

Want peace of mind before the next emergency happens? Sign up for a FREE Elk Emergency Response (ER) contract and gain access to:

Priority emergency response
Expert spill containment and remediation
Professional guidance through the entire process

Contact Elk Environmental Services Today

Summer Is Heating Up for Empire Group Affiliates

Thu, 03 Jul 2025 20:05:28 GMT

As summer heats up, we're taking a moment to look back at some of the exciting projects completed by Empire Group affiliates. It’s been a season of meaningful work, from upgrading primary wire for street lamps to overseeing the demolition of a community pool. Each project has brought unique challenges—and rewarding outcomes. Here’s a look at a few highlights from the season so far.

Elk Environmental Services (Elk)

Delaware Valley Utility Contractors (DVUC)

Delaware Valley Contractors (DVC)

Empire Services

As we look back over the past few months, one thing is clear—every project our Empire Group affiliates took on made a difference. From emergency environmental response to essential utility upgrades, historic demolition, and community engagement, each effort reflects our commitment to safety, service, and excellence. These projects not only showcase the expertise of our affiliates but also the pride they take in their work. With more opportunities on the horizon, we’re excited to keep building, protecting, and improving the communities we serve.

Celebrating Workplace Safety During National Safety Month

Fri, 13 Jun 2025 19:12:56 GMT

In today's business landscape, prioritizing safety in the workplace is paramount. Too often, we witness unfortunate incidents stemming from negligence, whether it's mishandling chemicals or unsafe ladder use. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, there were 5,283 workplace fatalities in 2023, a 3.7% decrease from the previous year. Non-fatal work-related injuries and illnesses also dropped by 8.4% to 2.6 million cases. Despite some progress, we cannot rest on our laurels. One way to boost safety awareness is through National Safety Month.

Workplace Safety Has Evolved

In 1996, the National Safety Council (NSC) launched National Safety Month to raise awareness and reduce preventable work-related illnesses, injuries, and fatalities. Held in June, the event aligns with a seasonal rise in heat-related incidents (e.g., heat stress) and construction-related roadway hazards.

National Safety Month's Focus Areas

Each National Safety Month, the National Safety Council highlights key safety topics to promote awareness and prevention. For 2025, the weekly themes include:

Week 1: Continuous Improvement

Week 2: Employee Engagement

Week 3: Roadway Safety

Week 4: Wellbeing

By addressing these themes, organizations can proactively tackle common safety concerns to create a safer work environment.

Empire Group’s Commitment to Safety

At Empire Group, safety stands as our top priority. We've implemented numerous processes and systems to ensure a methodical, controlled, and comprehensive approach to every project across our affiliated companies. This includes personal protective equipment for each team member, equipment training, and rigorous safety protocols designed to minimize risk and ensure compliance with industry standards.

Through our affiliate Elk Environmental Services, you’ll find over 40 health and safety training courses led by experienced OSHA-authorized outreach trainers. They can customize trainings to meet your company’s specific needs, such as scheduling a training for second shift or conducting a training at a venue of your choice. Also, Elk’s safety team conducts safety audits and job hazard analyses to proactively identify and address potential issues before they become incidents.

Workplace safety is a shared responsibility that demands continuous effort and accountability. National Safety Month serves as a reminder of the importance of prioritizing safety in all facets of work. By actively engaging with the designated themes and investing in comprehensive training, organizations can cultivate a culture that protects employees and fosters productivity.

Why Proactive Tank Cleaning Is a Smart Investment for Industrial Facilities

Tue, 03 Jun 2025 17:25:05 GMT

Industrial and manufacturing operations rely on clean, functional storage tanks to run safely, efficiently, and in compliance with environmental regulations. Elk Environmental Services, one of our affiliates, understands the high stakes involved—and they are ready to help facilities across the Mid-Atlantic region manage those risks before they become costly problems.

From preventing equipment damage to ensuring regulatory compliance, here’s why proactive tank cleaning is essential for your facility’s long-term success.

Keep Your Facility Running: Reduce Downtime with Routine Tank Cleaning

Over time, storage tanks naturally accumulate sludge, sediment, and debris—especially in high-demand industrial environments. Left unchecked, this buildup:

Restricts flow rates
Reduces storage capacity
Increases wear on pumps and processing systems
Causes unplanned shutdowns and equipment failures

Routine tank cleaning services from Elk Environmental helps keep your tanks operating at peak performance. Elk’s trained crews ensure that tanks are free from blockages and buildup, enabling more accurate inspections and helping you spot potential issues before they escalate. By minimizing the risk of emergency repairs, they help clients avoid production delays and lost revenue.

Regulatory Compliance Starts with Clean Tanks

Storage tanks often contain regulated materials such as chemicals, fuels, or wastewater. Even trace residues left in a tank can result in:

Hazardous chemical reactions
Fires or spills
Environmental contamination
Penalties from the EPA, OSHA, and state agencies like the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (PADEP)

Elk Environmental helps you stay compliant with storage tank cleaning services that meet or exceed federal and state standards. Their confined space entry (CSE) trained crews follow OSHA 29 CFR 1910.120 guidelines and offer CSE rescue support for clients and contractors alike.

Extend the Life of Your Storage Tanks

Tanks are a major capital investment, and regular cleaning is essential to preserving their lifespan. The materials stored inside—especially corrosive substances—can lead to:

Interior wall corrosion
Pitting and structural degradation
Premature tank failure

By removing harmful residues on a routine basis, Elk Environmental helps industrial clients extend the functional life of their tanks and reduce long-term costs. Clean tanks also help improve energy efficiency, since pumps can move liquids with less resistance—saving money on utilities and system maintenance.

Elk Environmental’s Full-Service Tank Cleaning Solutions

What sets Elk apart is their comprehensive, turnkey approach. From initial assessment to disposal and documentation, they manage every step of the storage tank maintenance process:

Vacuum truck services
Sludge removal and disposal
Tank closure and decommissioning
Soil remediation (if needed)
Regulatory reporting and documentation

Whether you’re maintaining an active tank or planning a permanent closure, Elk ensures full compliance and peace of mind. As a PADEP -certified AMR and UMR contractor, they are listed in the Pennsylvania Registry of Storage Tank Certified Companies.

In today’s competitive industrial landscape, proactive tank maintenance isn’t a luxury—it’s a necessity. Don’t wait for a leak, shutdown, or inspection failure to realize the importance of proactive tank cleaning. Contact Elk Environmental Services to learn more about their storage tank management services. Ask about their brand-new Powervac 5300 Wet & Dry vactor!

May is National Electrical Safety Month: Protect Your Team, Property & Bottom Line

Mon, 19 May 2025 16:23:33 GMT

Every May, National Electrical Safety Month serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of preventing electrical hazards in the workplace. Sponsored by the Electrical Safety Foundation International ( ESFI ), this annual campaign focuses on educating employers and workers about the steps they can take to avoid electrical-related injuries, fatalities, and property damage.

Why Electrical Safety Matters More Than Ever

Electrical hazards are a serious threat across industries. Each year, the United States sees approximately 4,000 workplace electrical accidents , resulting in more than $1 million in financial losses for employers. These incidents are not only costly—they're often preventable.

Understanding the dangers of electricity and implementing safety protocols is critical to reducing risks on the job. Whether you're in construction, manufacturing, healthcare, or an office setting, electrical safety should be a top priority.

Spotlight for 2025: Lithium-Ion Battery Safety

This year’s National Electrical Safety Month theme focuses on the safe use and handling of lithium-ion batteries—a technology now widely used in:

Power tools
Mobile and wearable devices
Medical equipment
Electric vehicles

While convenient and powerful, lithium-ion batteries can ignite or explode if damaged, overcharged, or improperly disposed of. Proper storage, usage, and recycling practices are essential to avoid workplace fires and injuries. Instead of putting them in the your household trash can, you should take them to a household hazardous waste collection event or a recycling center.

Three Simple Ways to Prevent Electrical Injuries at Work

Keeping your team safe starts with awareness—and the right precautions. Here are three key safety practices every workplace should follow:

Use Grounded Outlets and Surge Protectors
Avoid overloading outlets and ensure all electrical equipment is plugged into grounded power sources.
Inspect and Handle Power Cords with Care
Never press, twist, or stretch cords. Damaged cords are a leading cause of electrical fires and injuries.
De-Energize Equipment During Maintenance
Always follow lockout/tagout procedures to ensure equipment is safe to handle before maintenance or repair work begins.

Compliance Training That Saves Lives

Elk Environmental Services , part of the Empire Group, is your trusted partner in creating a safe, compliant work environment. Elk’s experienced OSHA-authorized outreach trainers provide comprehensive training programs, including:

Electrical Safety Training
NFPA 70E Compliance Programs

Let us help your company meet safety standards and reduce risk across the board.

Contact Ed Clemas or Jamie Caron today at elktraining@esreading.com to explore Elk’s safety training options and keep your workforce protected and in full compliance.

What's New this Spring at Empire Group

Wed, 30 Apr 2025 19:20:08 GMT

We’ve had the pleasure of supporting several exciting Empire Group affiliate projects recently, each one a testament to our commitment to helping clients achieve their goals. From milestone celebrations to innovative learning space transformations, these initiatives showcase the diverse and meaningful impact of our work. Here’s a look at some of the standout moments we've been proud to be a part of.

Elk Environmental Services

Empire Services

DVC

DVUC

It’s been an exciting and productive season for Empire Group and our affiliates. We are proud to have contributed to a wide range of projects, helping our customers complete their work on time and within budget. With a strong track record of delivering quality results, we are excited about the upcoming projects we have scheduled in the coming months. At Empire Group, we’re committed to continued success and look forward to supporting your next project with efficiency and expertise.

Celebrating National Safe Digging Month This Spring

Fri, 11 Apr 2025 18:19:30 GMT

Spring is here—and with it comes the hum of construction equipment, the scent of fresh soil, and the flurry of activity that signals the start of construction season. But before you break ground, there's one essential step that could save lives, protect infrastructure, and prevent costly damage: safe digging.

Each April, the Common Ground Alliance designates National Safe Digging Month, a nationwide campaign launched in 2007 to raise awareness about the importance of underground utility safety. As temperatures rise and outdoor projects ramp up, now is the perfect time to spotlight the invisible network beneath our feet.

Why Safe Digging Matters More Than Ever

Did you know that the U.S. is home to over 20 million miles of underground utilities? That’s enough to circle the Earth more than 800 times. Hidden below our feet are power lines, pipelines, telecommunications cables, water mains, and sewer systems—all essential to daily life and public safety.

However, their invisibility is precisely what makes them so vulnerable. Each year, more than 400,000 utility strikes occur in the U.S., posing serious risks to public safety, causing service outages, and racking up billions in repair and legal costs.

One Call Can Save Lives: Call 8-1-1 Before You Dig

Whether you're a homeowner planting a tree or a utility contractor preparing to install primary wire for streetlamps, calling 8-1-1 before you dig is not just smart—it's the law in many states. This free service connects you to local utility companies who will mark the location of buried lines so you can dig safely and confidently.

By taking a few simple steps—planning your dig, calling 8-1-1, and waiting for utilities to be marked—you’re helping protect your team, your project timeline, and your community.

Don’t Cut Corners, Cut Risk

National Safe Digging Month serves as a timely reminder that knowledge is power and prevention is key. As you gear up for spring construction projects, make safety your foundation. Take the time to understand what lies beneath, follow safe digging practices, and always call before you dig.

We can help you stay safe! Elk Environmental Services , one of our affiliates, offers a variety of safety training courses. Their OSHA-authorized outreach trainers can help you and your team stay safe and avoid utility damage with our OSHA 10- and 30-hour construction trainings and trenching and excavation training. Contact Jamie Caron today at jamiec@elkenv.com for more information.

Empire Group: Celebrating 70 Years

Fri, 28 Mar 2025 20:53:06 GMT

Wrapping Up Winter at Empire Group

Wed, 19 Mar 2025 17:16:13 GMT

As we say goodbye to winter, we reflect on some of the exciting Empire Group affiliate projects. We enjoyed helping our customers achieve their goals. From celebrating an anniversary to transforming learning spaces, there have been a variety of projects and events. Let’s take a look at a few of them.

Empire Group Turns 70!

Transforming Learning Spaces: Interior Demolition at Renaissance Academy

Elk Environmental Gets a New Vactor

Major Upgrades Completed at Elk's 10-Day In-Transit Waste Storage Facility

Elk Environmental Services is committed to providing customers with the highest standards of safety, compliance, and efficiency in waste management. That's why we're are excited to announce the completion of significant infrastructure upgrades at Elk's 10-Day In-Transit Waste Storage Facility.

What These Upgrades Mean for You:

Enhanced Environmental Protection: The new waste storage units feature state-of-the-art secondary containment, ensuring maximum protection against potential discharges and exceeding the latest agency guidelines for Preparedness, Prevention, and Contingency (PPC) plans. This means greater peace of mind knowing your waste is handled with the utmost care and environmental responsibility.
Faster, More Efficient Service: The redesigned dock system streamlines the safe handling and temporary storage of your hazardous and residual waste, leading to quicker turnaround times and improved efficiency.
Uncompromising Safety Standards: Elk has invested in upgraded facilities for the accessible storage of critical safety, fire protection, spill control, and decontamination equipment. The Storage trailers are fully contained. This demonstrates Elk's unwavering commitment to the Environment and safety of the Elk team and your materials.
Optimized Equipment Handling: The upgraded storage structures for container handling equipment, such as electric assist pallet jacks and drum trucks, ensure smooth and efficient operations.
Increased Storage Capacity : Expanded storage units for various container types means they have the inventory to promptly meet your diverse environmental needs.
Streamlined Paperwork and Record Keeping: The new on-dock office space allows for efficient processing of paperwork and meticulous record keeping, ensuring accuracy and compliance.

These upgrades reflect Elk's ongoing investment in providing their customers with the most reliable and efficient waste management solutions. They're dedicated to continuously improving their facilities and services to meet and exceed customer expectations.

Berks Transfer at HBA of Berks County’s Home Run Building & Trade Expo in Reading, PA

Our affiliate Berks Transfer had a great time at the HBA of Berks County’s Home Run Building and Trade Expo this past weekend in the Redner’s Center at FirstEnergy Stadium in Reading, PA. From renting a dumpster to installing a hot tub, there was something for everyone. Bill Pisczcek, Berks Transfer’s General Manager, enjoyed meeting up with old friends and making new ones!

This winter has been a busy and successful season for Empire Group and its affiliates. We are proud to have contributed to a wide range of projects, helping our customers complete their work on time and within budget. With a strong track record of delivering quality results, we are excited about the upcoming projects we have scheduled for this spring. At Empire Group, we’re committed to continued success and look forward to supporting your next project with efficiency and expertise.

Stay Safe with National Ladder Safety Month: Essential Tips and Training for Preventing Accidents

Tue, 18 Mar 2025 20:31:49 GMT

When it comes to construction, maintenance, or even household tasks, ladders are an essential tool. However, improper use of a ladder can result in serious injuries, fatalities, and property damage. Ladders come in various shapes and sizes, making it tempting to use the same ladder for multiple purposes. But without proper education and safety awareness, accidents can happen. That’s why National Ladder Safety Month, observed every March, plays a crucial role in reducing ladder-related accidents.

What is National Ladder Safety Month?

National Ladder Safety Month is a campaign organized by the American Ladder Institute (ALI), aimed at raising awareness about the importance of ladder safety. The initiative strives to reduce the number of ladder-related injuries and fatalities through education, resources, and safety guidelines. Whether at home, work, or on construction sites, this month educates individuals on following proper ladder safety practices to prevent accidents. This year, ALI will focus on training and awareness; inspection and maintenance; stabilizations, set-up and accessories; and safe climbing and positioning.

Why Ladder Safety Matters

Did you know that over 680,000 people worldwide die each year from falls? In the United States alone, more than 160,000 individuals end up in emergency rooms due to ladder-related injuries annually. These statistics are staggering, and the majority of ladder accidents occur due to human error or negligence. From construction workers to DIY enthusiasts, ladder safety should be a top priority for everyone.

Common Causes of Ladder Accidents

Ladder accidents are often preventable with the right safety precautions. Here are some of the most common causes of ladder-related injuries:

Incorrect Ladder Choice : Using the wrong ladder for the task at hand is one of the most common mistakes. Whether it’s the wrong height, type, or weight capacity, choosing the right ladder is crucial to safety.
Poor Ladder Setup : A ladder that isn’t placed on stable, level ground or set at the proper angle can easily become unstable and cause a fall.
Overreaching : Stretching too far while on a ladder can destabilize it, increasing the risk of a fall. Always ensure your body remains within the ladder's frame to maintain stability.
Ignoring Weight Limits : Exceeding the ladder’s weight capacity can cause it to collapse. Always check the weight rating and ensure that it is sufficient for both you and any tools you may be carrying.
Neglecting Safety Precautions : Failing to use additional safety gear, such as stabilizers or harnesses, may seem like a time-saver but can significantly increase the risk of injury.

The Importance of Ladder Safety Training

To prevent accidents and ensure compliance with safety regulations, ladder safety training is essential. According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), ladder safety is governed by Title 29 of the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) Part 1910.23 . This regulation sets the standards for ladder use in various environments, including workplaces, construction sites, and other industrial settings.

Having proper training is vital not only to comply with OSHA regulations but also to protect workers from avoidable accidents. Empire Group’s safety team, through its affiliate Elk Environmental Services , offers ladder safety training programs designed to meet these standards. Their courses cover topics such as:

Ladder Safety Awareness for Construction
Stairways and Ladders for Construction
Ladder Safety for General Industry

These programs are led by experienced OSHA Outreach Trainers Ed Clemas and Jamie Caron , ensuring that you receive the latest safety practices and guidelines. Elk Environmental Services offers over 40 safety training programs (in-person and online), many of which provide certifications and, in some cases, Continuing Education Units (CEUs).

Ladder safety is crucial for preventing accidents, injuries, and fatalities. Whether you're working in construction, maintenance, or even around the house, understanding the proper use of ladders and taking part in National Ladder Safety Month can help prevent unnecessary harm. Make sure you’re choosing the right ladder, setting it up correctly, and following essential safety precautions.

A Look Back at 2024

Mon, 13 Jan 2025 21:16:16 GMT

DVC

Looking to efficiently dispose of materials from your site? Give DVC a call when you require materials transported to both recycling facilities and landfills. DVC collaborated with Empire Services, an Empire Group affiliate, on a steel bridge demolition project. The steel was loaded into their barrel trailer for transportation to a recycling facility.

Empire Services

The dangerous state of a historic church in Reading, PA became evident when the steeple roof collapsed, and the stone structure showed signs of imminent failure, threatening both traffic flow and public safety. In response, the City of Reading contracted Empire Services to demolish the church steeple to the roofline. Using a 135-foot boom man lift and a 50-ton all-terrain crane with skid pan, Empire's skilled crew hand demolished the steeple roof, starting with the removal of the stone pillars. The collapsed roofing section was then removed to prevent further damage of the steeple walls. Subsequently, weakened sections of the walls were systematically removed down to a point where the steeple was deemed stable.

Elk Environmental Services

Often, a company utilizes several of Elk’s industrial services to keep operations running smoothly. Elk tackled a multifaceted project at a roofing manufacturer in Maryland. The team removed abandoned process piping containing asphalt/oil and liquid from a roof line and utilized a 40,000-psi hydro-blaster to clean production cable wheels.

DVUC

When power lines need to be replaced or installed, you can count on DVUC to get the job done on time and on budget. The crew replaced 854 feet of a 3 phase 750AL primary backbone between two switches in a neighborhood in Lakewood, NJ.

Milestones

Happy Retirement! Chris Goerner retired from Empire Group after 35 great years of service. She was a valuable team member who will be missed. We had a wonderful time at her retirement luncheon!

Happy Work Anniversary! Congratulations Todd Quinter on your 40 years of service with Empire Services. Your contribution proves that hard work, perseverance, and can-do attitude definitely leads to greatness.

Before we get into the hectic pace of 2025, we just wanted to take a moment to thank our customers for their business and support. The projects completed by our affiliates demonstrate our experience and capabilities to provide exceptional customer experiences. We look forward to serving our customers this year and helping them achieve their project goals!

Empire Group Hosts Heartwarming Annual Breakfast with Santa

Tue, 10 Dec 2024 18:56:27 GMT

The holiday season came alive on Saturday, December 7th, as nearly 40 children gathered for Empire Group’s annual Breakfast with Santa event at the Mohnton Fire Company in Mohnton, PA. This annual tradition kicked off the holiday season for Empire Group employees and their families.

A Festive Morning Full of Fun and Laughter

The event, which began at 8:30 AM, was filled with excitement and joy. While the children eagerly awaited Santa’s arrival, they kept themselves entertained with arts and crafts. The kids enjoyed creating their own festive Christmas trees, reindeer, elves and polar bear decorations, adding to the holiday spirit in the air.

As the clock ticked closer to Santa’s arrival, anticipation grew. When Santa finally made his entrance, the room erupted in delighted cheers. Each child had the chance to sit on Santa’s lap, share their wish list, and receive a gift. Even some of the employees got a chance to chat with Santa! From construction trucks and kitchen sets to bracelet kits and diamond painting kits, every child left with a thoughtful gift, making it a truly magical experience for all.

A Delicious Holiday Breakfast for All Ages

While the kids waited for Santa, families were treated to a hearty breakfast buffet. The spread featured classic favorites that everyone could enjoy, including:

Fluffy pancakes
Crispy scrapple
Bacon and sausages
Golden potatoes
Scrambled eggs
French toast

The breakfast was the perfect complement to the holiday festivities, offering a cozy, warm meal for families to share together.

Creating Lasting Memories

As the event wrapped up around 10 AM, children left with not only smiles on their faces but also goodie bags and gifts in hand. The morning was a wonderful reminder of the importance of community and the joy of giving during the holiday season.

The breakfast also marked the last event of the year for Empire Group employees and their families, making it even more special. A heartfelt thank you goes out to everyone who helped make this event a success, including Tonia Carlile and Ellen Ganime. We also send a special thank you to Todd & Karen O'Neill, Harry & Cathy O'Neill, Wayne Lamp, and the Mohnton Fire Company. We can’t wait for next year’s Breakfast with Santa!

Celebrating Gratitude and Success This Thanksgiving Season at Empire Group

Fri, 22 Nov 2024 20:03:57 GMT

As the Thanksgiving season approaches, Empire Group takes a moment to reflect on the year’s successes and extend our heartfelt gratitude to the people who make it all possible—our dedicated employees. Their hard work, expertise, and commitment to excellence drive our business forward, and we are thankful for each and every one of them.

Honoring Our Employees with Appreciation Events

This past year, we celebrated our team’s contributions with several events designed to show how much we value their hard work and dedication. Our employees enjoyed a fun-filled day at Knoebels Amusement Resort, had a blast at our Annual Empire Group Golf Open, and enjoyed friendly competition at the Annual Fishing Rodeo. These events are just a small token of our appreciation for the passion and effort our employees put into their roles every day.

We also had the honor of participating in the 60th Annual King Frost Parade, where our very own DVC team won first place in the Walkers Category. It was a moment of pride for our company, as it highlighted not only our dedication to the community but also the strong spirit of teamwork within our organization.

Showcasing Our Unique Projects and Services

At Empire Group, we take immense pride in the diverse range of services our affiliates provide across various industries. This year, they had the privilege of working on several standout projects that showcase the talent and expertise of their employees. Here are just a few highlights:

Elk Environmental Services: Known for its industrial cleaning expertise, Elk’s crew completed an impressive project, power washing a 350,000-gallon clarifying tank to remove sludge in preparation for necessary repairs. Using their super sucker, the waste was safely transported to a local disposal facility, ensuring minimal environmental impact.

Delaware Valley Utility Contractors: The DVUC team’s dedication to connecting communities was evident in their recent project in Lakewood, NJ. The New Jersey team installed 455 feet of 1kV 1/0 primary wire and 455 feet of 4/0 service wire, powering a new housing development. This crucial infrastructure ensures that residents in the area stay connected and energized as the community continues to grow.

Empire Services: The Empire Services crew recently completed a challenging project in a quaint Bucks County neighborhood. The job involved the removal of several structures, including a large 500,000 above ground water tank, a booster pump building, and a network of piping. The proximity of residential buildings meant that they needed to plan the demolition carefully to minimize any disruption or risk to surrounding properties. They provided complete site demolition services from top to bottom, including recycling and salvaging valuable materials, ensuring that the entire project was completed without interruption. In keeping with sustainable demolition practices, the team worked closely with our affiliate company DVC to transport the materials to designated facilities.

A Heartfelt Thanks

While these projects highlight some of the technical and hands-on work our teams perform, we want to extend our thanks to all our employees—both those on the front lines and those behind the scenes. We also wish to express our sincere gratitude to our partners and clients for their continued support. As we approach the end of 2024, we’re reminded of the strength of our workforce and the importance of working together to overcome challenges and deliver results that exceed customer expectations. We’re excited to close out the year on a high note and are committed to finishing strong. From all of us at Empire Group, we wish you and your loved ones a safe and happy Thanksgiving.

What's Elk Up to This Fall?

Mon, 11 Nov 2024 19:26:37 GMT

Elk Environmental Services , one of our affiliates, has been busy this fall with lab packing projects, company events, and other updates. Here's a glimpse into what's been happening.

Performing a Fall Lab Pack

Did you know Elk provides a number of services to schools and universities? Elk chemists performed a lab packing at a local university at the start of the semester. They inventoried and packaged spent and expired chemistry and biology chemicals to be disposed.

Attending PA Chamber Annual Environmental Conference

Recently, Elk attended the PA Chamber of Business & Industry’s Annual Environmental Conference in Harrisburg, PA. The conference brings industry leaders, policymakers, and environmental services companies together to learn the latest on environmental policy in the Commonwealth. Below, Elk’s Phil Wagner (L) and Mike Hatzivasilis (R) are ready to provide information on Elk’s services. Phil provides information on Elk’s waste management services to an attendee.

Cleaning a Clarifying Tank

From vacuum truck to confined space entry, Elk provides a wide range of industrial cleaning services to a variety of industries. The crew power washed a 350,000-gallon clarifying tank to effectively remove sludge to prepare it for repairs. The waste was vacuumed into Elk’s super sucker and transported to a local disposal facility.

Elk Environmental Services continues to make significant strides in providing essential environmental solutions across various industries. From performing lab packing services at universities to attending key industry events like the PA Chamber Annual Environmental Conference, Elk is committed to staying at the forefront of environmental policy and practices. Additionally, their expertise in industrial cleaning, such as the recent clarifying tank project, demonstrates their ability to tackle even the most complex challenges. Whether it’s waste management, chemical disposal, or specialized cleaning services, Elk Environmental Services remains a trusted partner for businesses and institutions seeking reliable, efficient solutions.

A Night to Remember: Highlights from the 2024 King Frost Parade in Hamburg, PA

Tue, 29 Oct 2024 19:07:06 GMT

On the chilly evening of Saturday, October 26th, the streets of downtown Hamburg, PA, came alive with the King Frost Parade, an annual tradition that has been captivating locals for over sixty years. With around 20,000 spectators in attendance, this event is more than just a parade—it's a celebration of community and the arrival of fall.

This year's parade featured an impressive lineup of vehicles from two of our affiliates: Delaware Valley Contractors (DVC) and Elk Environmental Services (Elk). DVC had three vehicles alongside a mini-excavator and a tractor from Elk. The star of the show was King Frost himself, who was joined by the Phillie Phanatic.

The parade boasted five divisions, showcasing 130 floats and five marching bands, all weaving through the heart of Hamburg. The DVC service truck, adorned with cobwebs, balloons, and chains, led the way, with Terry Wentzel at the wheel. The highlight of their float was “Mr. Skellington,” a half-skeleton perched on the roof, making his debut in style.

Following closely was the DVC roll-off truck, carrying a mini-excavator that featured mischievous skeletons, driven by Stew Rivers. Nick Olivieri took charge of the Elk tractor, while another DVC service truck, driven by Jason Moffett, rounded out our parade presence. Our walkers, dressed in costumes ranging from Captain Marvel to a skeleton princess, won first place in the Walkers Category! Congratulations! They spread joy by handing out candy to the excited crowd. We had a blast this year and can’t wait until next year's parade!

A big thank you to everyone who helped make this event special:

Terry Wentzel and family

Dominick Wentzel

Tommy Wentzel and family

Stew Rivers

Nick Olivieri

Jason Moffett

Russ Oswalt

Apologies if anyone was missed!

Empire Group's Annual Fishing Rodeo and Picnic: A Day of Fun and Family

Tue, 15 Oct 2024 18:28:02 GMT

Every fall, employees of Empire Group eagerly anticipate the Annual Fishing Rodeo and Picnic, and this year did not disappoint! Held on Saturday, October 12th, at the picturesque farm of Todd and Karen O’Neill, the event was a resounding success.

A Perfect Day for Fishing

Fun for the Whole Family

Delicious Food and Prizes

Building Community

A Cloudy National Night Out

Fri, 27 Sep 2024 15:36:48 GMT

It was a special year for Northern Berk County National Night Out! The event was held at a new venue – the Berks County Fairgrounds in Leesport. Each vendor had plenty of space for their vehicles and tables, a welcome change from last year's crowded setup at Schuylkill Valley High School.

A New Gathering

It was exciting to see employees from DVC, Empire Group, and Berks Transfer all together at the event. DVC's Russ Oswalt and Jimmy Blatt, along with Empire Group’s Ellen Ganime and Berks Transfer’s Karen O'Neill, Lauren Bohning, and Mitzi Cote, distributed fun giveaways, including police SUV stress relievers, small toys, bracelets, sunglasses, and snacks. Despite the cloudy weather and a rescheduled date, everyone had a great time.

National Night Out: A Nationwide Celebration

National Night Out takes place on the first Tuesday of August in most states, with some opting for an October date. Founded in 1984 by Matt Peskin, who also established the National Association of Town Watch, this event has grown significantly over the past 40 years. It fosters connections between police departments and communities through activities, music, and food. Last year, nearly 40 million people attended National Night Out events across over 16,800 communities from all 50 states.

An Exciting Vendor Lineup

The Berks County Fairgrounds showcased 80 vendors this year, and we anticipate even more participation next year. Empire Group was proud to be among a diverse group of vendors, including local businesses, first responders, and non-profit organizations. The variety was impressive, featuring everything from insurance companies and car dealerships to healthcare providers and restaurants. New vendors like Spitler’s Towing, HNL Lab Medicine, and Blinds To Go added to the fun atmosphere. Attendees enjoyed delicious food options, from pizza to popcorn, while engaging in games and exploring a variety of vehicles, including a Tesla Cybertruck and two helicopters.

A Spectacular Ending

DVC showcased their tri-axle dump truck, while Berks Transfer displayed their roll-off truck with a dumpster. The evening concluded with brilliant fireworks, leaving everyone in high spirits.

At Empire Group, we search for ways to enrich our community. Like National Night Out, we strive to connect with our neighbors. Our employees had a blast at the event and look forward to National Night Out 2025. We hope to see you next year!

The 29th Annual Empire Group Golf Classic

Thu, 12 Sep 2024 18:29:29 GMT

This year's Golf Classic was held on September 7, 2024, at Willow Hollow Golf Course in Leesport, PA. The day began with sun peaking out of the clouds, and we had 104 of the finest golfers from Berks County playing in this fun event. There was a shot gun start at 7:00 AM and all the action was completed by 11:30 AM – just in time for the rain! Once the match was over, we enjoyed a wonderful lunch of fried chicken, cold cuts, pierogies, baked beans, potato salad and various side dishes, snacks and drinks. After the luncheon, the winners were announced.

Team Winners

First Place: Val Santo, Ray Plummer, Dave Albright, and Mike Wagner with a score of 17 under par – an excellent score!

Second Place: Jey Newswanger, Matt Gordon, Brian Leupold, and Nick Shade. The team had a score of 12 under par – an awesome score!

Third Place: Carl Sottosanti, John Sottosanti, Sebastian Sottosanti, and Giuseppe Napoli with a score of 11 under par – great playing guys!

Closest to the Pin Hole Winners

Kenny Freil Hole #3 – 15'

Brian Leupold Hole #5 – 5' 7"

Val Santo Hole #6 – 8' 7"

Dave Albright Hole #9 – 4' 11"

Chris Stephens Hole # 14 – 3' 6"

The Longest Drive Winner

Rich Reinhart Hole #16

A Big Thank You

I would like to thank those who helped me put this event put together. Without them, things would not get done:

Pamela Oswalt

Charity Oswalt

Michelle Oswalt

Missy Sebio

Mandy Rotkiske

Makayla Rotkiske

Victoria Reedy

Brenda Martis

Cherie Clissa

Mitzi Cote

Ellen Ganime

If I forgot to mention you, I apologize!

Once again, thanks to everyone who made this event possible and a special thanks to Todd & Karen O’Neill and Harry & Cathy O’Neill – without them we could not do this every year! Stay tuned for next year’s date!

Sincerely,

Russ

Russell P. Oswalt, Sr.

Vice President of Transportation, DVC

What's New at Elk?

Thu, 29 Aug 2024 21:07:03 GMT

This summer was sizzling and Elk Environmental Services , one of our affiliates, was busy with various projects, company events, and other updates. Here's a glimpse into what they were up to!

Attending Annual BSOHA Golf Tournament

Cleaning Quench Tanks

Cleaning a Vertical Tank Before Demolition

Congratulations Glenn!

At Empire Group, we are thankful for these opportunities afforded to Elk and all other projects, enabling them to help customers achieve their goals. We look forward to the projects Elk will be working on in the coming months! Contact Elk today to learn what they can do for your company!

Family Fun Day at Knoebels: A Truly Memorable Event

Mon, 19 Aug 2024 18:01:48 GMT

On Saturday, August 17th, employees and their families gathered for a fantastic Empire Group Family Fun Day at Knoebels Amusement Resort in Elysburg, PA. This year's event was a big hit, with nearly 200 attendees coming together for a day filled with fun, food, and festivities.

The day kicked off with a delicious picnic that included hamburgers, chicken, sausage, kielbasa, salads, side dishes, drinks, and desserts. After a hearty meal, everyone made their way into the park to enjoy the rides and attractions. This year was particularly special, as it marked the first time some family members and new employees joined us for the event, such as Michael Harkin, husband of Ellyn Harkin ( Empire Services ) and Tonia Carlile (Empire Group). Michael and Ellyn had a “great” time on the Impulse roller coaster, and it was Michael’s first experience at an American amusement park!

Throughout the day, families explored the park, enjoying rides and attractions. Did you know that Knoebels’ Grand Carousel is one of the largest in the world, featuring 63 horses and 3 chariots? Or that the Flyer is the only ride of its kind that operates in a clockwise direction? Beyond the rides, guests also enjoyed various shows, museums, and games, with plenty of opportunities to win prizes.

A big thank you goes out to everyone who made this event possible:

Russ Mountjoy and his wife Kristi for putting together an amazing lunch, from providing the food to manning the grill.
Billy Ruth and his wife Tracy for their help with setup.
Todd & Karen O’Neill and Harry & Cathy O’Neill . We truly appreciate this special time with our families and co-workers at this historic park.

As the day came to an end, we all had fun stories to share. No matter the affiliate company, the employees of the Empire Group come together to take part in one of the many family-oriented events held by the company throughout the year. We can’t wait for next year’s family fun day at Knoebels!

What's New at Empire Group?

Fri, 26 Jul 2024 14:17:45 GMT

Summer is in full swing, and our affiliates are offering a variety of services. We take pride in assisting our customers in reaching their objectives. Here are some of the exciting projects they've recently completed.

Demolishing a Multi-Story Structure

Providing Shutdown Services

Giving a Boost to a Senior Residential Development

Empire Group at National Night Out 2024

Summer remains hot for Empire Group and its affiliates. We're thankful that our companies contributed to a range of projects, ensuring customers completed them on time and within budget. We eagerly anticipate the upcoming scheduled projects as summer winds down!

Protect Yourself & Your Team from Heat Stress While Working Outside

Mon, 15 Jul 2024 18:40:06 GMT

In recent times, safeguarding against heat stress has become more crucial than ever for outdoor workers. The United States has witnessed consecutive temperature records this year, with February marking the warmest month globally across surface air and oceans. On the East Coast, states like North Carolina and Maryland have shattered summer temperature records, underscoring the severity of ongoing heat waves and the likelihood of more to come. It's imperative to prioritize protection against heat stress for yourself and your team.

Understanding Heat Stress

Heat stress manifests in various forms such as heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke. Some may include prickly heat (heat rash) or heat syncope (fainting), but we will not be covering them in this blog. These conditions can occur unexpectedly, particularly when engaged in strenuous activities without adequate precautions. Identifying these heat-related illnesses early is essential to mitigating their impact.

Heat Cramps: They occur after strenuous activity, where the body loses fluids, salts and minerals. If only the fluids are replenished, the muscles will cramp and spasm. Heat cramps can occur in the arms, legs, stomach, and other areas after the activity (work) or at night.

Heat Exhaustion: More severe than cramps, heat exhaustion results from excessive loss of water and salt through sweat. Symptoms include heavy sweating, headaches, nausea, and fainting. Immediate medical attention is necessary to prevent progression to heat stroke.

Heat Stroke: The most severe heat-related illness, heat stroke occurs when the body's temperature regulation fails. Unlike heat exhaustion, heat stroke involves cessation of sweating, along with potential twitching of muscles. Prompt medical intervention is critical as heat stroke can be life-threatening.

Tips for Protecting Yourself in Summer Heat

Now that you understand the risks associated with heat stress, taking preventive measures becomes paramount:

Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of fluids like water and electrolyte-rich sports drinks. Avoid beverages with caffeine (e.g., soda), as they can contribute to dehydration.

Use Sun Protection: Apply sunscreen with at least SPF 30 to exposed skin. Wearing hats and sunglasses provides additional protection where permissible.

Take Regular Breaks: Despite deadlines, taking breaks helps prevent overheating and reduces the risk of heat-related illnesses.

At Empire Group, we prioritize safety above all else. We acknowledge the challenges of outdoor work in every season and provide comprehensive training to minimize risks. This summer's extreme temperatures reinforce our commitment to ensuring the Elk team's safety and well-being as well as the safety and well-being of all our affiliates and the Empire Group.

Whether summer or any other season, our affiliates are prepared to deliver the services you need while prioritizing safety. By following these guidelines, you can help safeguard against heat stress and ensure a productive and safe outdoor working environment for yourself and your team. Stay informed, stay safe, and stay cool!

Summer Shutdown Operations with Elk Environmental Services: Ensuring Peak Performance

Mon, 15 Jul 2024 17:33:30 GMT

Summer is the season for maintenance and improvement in industrial settings, and we're proud Elk Environmental Services (one of our affiliates) is at the forefront of ensuring peak operational performance for their clients. As Elk’s dedicated team dives headfirst into the summer shutdown operations, they're tackling essential maintenance tasks with unwavering commitment and expertise.

Specialized Services

Elk Environmental Services specializes in a wide array of critical tasks that keep industrial facilities running smoothly. From the thorough removal of water, sludge, slurries, scrap metal, sand, fuel oil, acids, and dust, there's no challenge too daunting for their team. Elk’s expertise extends across a diverse range of vessels and equipment, including:

Pits
Cranes
Filters & Ducts
Hoppers
Baghouses
Sodium Benches
Acid Lines
Production Cable Wheels

And much more. Whatever your facility needs, Elk Environmental Services delivers exceptional shutdown services that ensure your operations remain uninterrupted and efficient.

Power Washing Quench Tanks

Recently, Elk completed a significant project for a manufacturer in Berks County, PA, involving the cleaning of three 80,000-gallon quench tanks. Utilizing pressure washers and vactors, the team effectively removed industrial sludge and ensured a meticulous rinse-down of tank walls and weirs.

This project is a testament to Elk’s capability to handle large-scale, complex tasks with professionalism and precision. Elk’s commitment to quality and customer satisfaction shines through in every project they undertake.

Trust Elk Environmental Services

When it comes to summer shutdown operations and ensuring the continued smooth operation of your facilities, trust Elk Environmental Services. Whether it's cleaning quench tanks or performing essential maintenance on critical equipment, Elk stands ready to support your operations and exceed your expectations. Visit Elk today to learn more

Celebrating Workplace Safety: Happy National Safety Month

Tue, 04 Jun 2024 19:13:36 GMT

In today's business landscape, prioritizing safety in the workplace is paramount. Too often, we witness unfortunate incidents stemming from negligence, whether it's mishandling chemicals or unsafe scaffolding practices. The statistics speak volumes: In 2022 alone, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, there were 5,486 workplace fatalities , a 5.7% increase from the previous year. Additionally, non-fatal work-related injuries and illnesses rose by 7.5% to 2.8 million in 2022. Despite some progress, we cannot rest on our laurels. Safety awareness needs to be part of every company to reduce safety-related risks. One way to boost safety awareness is through National Safety Month.

Evolution of Workplace Safety

Over the past five decades, workplace safety has significantly evolved since the enactment of the Occupational Safety and Health Act (OSH Act) in 1970. However, advancements in technology have necessitated continual updates to safety practices and protocols. Another milestone came in 1996 with the establishment of National Safety Month by the National Safety Council (NSC). This annual event aims to curb work-related illnesses, injuries, and fatalities. Notably, June is selected due to the prevalence of heat-related incidents during the summer months and increased construction-related road hazards.

National Safety Month's Focus Areas

Each National Safety Month , the National Safety Council highlights key safety topics to promote awareness and prevention. This year's focus areas are:

Week 1: Safety Engagement;

Week 2: Roadway Safety;

Week 3: Risk Reduction;

Week 4: Slips, Trips & Falls.

By addressing these themes, organizations can proactively tackle common safety concerns and foster a safer work environment.

Commitment to Safety at Empire Group

At Empire Group, safety stands as our top priority. We've implemented robust processes and systems to ensure a methodical, controlled, and comprehensive approach to every project across our affiliated companies. Additionally, through Elk Environmental Services, we offer a wide array of health and safety training courses . Led by experienced OSHA-authorized outreach trainers, our offerings span over 40 courses, customizable to suit your organization's specific needs.

Workplace safety is a shared responsibility that demands continuous attention and effort. National Safety Month serves as a pivotal reminder of the importance of prioritizing safety in all facets of work. By actively engaging with the designated themes and investing in comprehensive training, organizations can cultivate a culture of safety that protects employees and fosters productivity. Contact us today to learn more!

Reflecting on Spring: Empire Group Affiliate Projects

Wed, 29 May 2024 19:36:55 GMT

As we say goodbye to spring, we reflect on some of the exciting Empire Group affiliate projects. It's been a season filled with accomplishment and satisfaction as we helped our clients achieve their project goals. From the careful deconstruction of a church steeple to the meticulous dismantling of process piping, our affiliates have worked on a variety of projects. Let’s take a look at a few of them.

Demolition of St. Cecilia's Church Steeple

Efficient Equipment Transportation

Multifaceted Industrial Project Management

Power Line Replacement

It's been a busy spring for Empire Group and its affiliates. We are grateful our affiliates were part of a variety of projects that helped customers complete their projects on time and on budget. As we eagerly anticipate the summer ahead, we remain committed to delivering excellence in every endeavor we undertake.

National Electrical Safety Month: Protecting Lives and Property

Fri, 10 May 2024 20:44:10 GMT

May is National Electrical Safety Month, a time to focus on educating both employers and workers about reducing electrical-related injuries, fatalities, and property damage. Established by the Electrical Safety Foundation , this observance aims to raise awareness and promote safety measures that can save lives and prevent costly accidents.

Importance of Electrical Safety

Each year, there are approximately 4,000 work-related electrical accidents in the United States, resulting in significant financial losses for employers, exceeding $1 million. It's essential to understand the risks associated with electricity and take proactive steps to mitigate them.

Focus on Lithium-Ion Battery Safety

This year, National Electrical Safety Month emphasizes lithium-ion battery safety . Lithium-ion batteries are commonly used to power portable devices, hospital equipment, vehicles, and power tools. However, if mishandled or improperly recycled, they can pose serious fire hazards. Proper usage and disposal practices are vital to prevent accidents and protect the environment.

Did You Know…

Seventy percent of workplace electrical fatalities occur in non-electrical occupations.
The top two most frequent causes of electrical injuries are contact with power lines and lack of ground-fault protection.
A current as low as 16 mA can cause a person to involuntarily remove their hand from an electrical source.

Preventing Electrical Workplace Injuries

Workers face various risks, including burns, lacerations, and electrocutions, often stemming from old or improperly maintained equipment and failure to follow safety protocols. Implementing the following measures can significantly reduce these risks:

Use grounded outlets and surge protectors.
Avoid pressing or stretching power cords, which can lead to damage and potential hazards.
De-energize equipment and utilize lockout/tagout procedures when performing maintenance or repairs.

Partnering for Safety Compliance

Elk Environmental Services, an Empire Group affiliate, is dedicated to helping companies maintain compliance and enhance workplace safety through comprehensive training programs , including electrical safety training and NFPA 70E. Contact Ed Clemas or Jamie Caron to discover the training programs that will keep you and your team safe and compliant. By prioritizing electrical safety and implementing proactive measures, we can prevent accidents, protect lives, and safeguard property.

A Chilly Earth Day!

Tue, 23 Apr 2024 12:56:01 GMT

Did you know the idea for Earth Day was created by Senator Gaylord Nelson in 1969? After witnessing the oil spill in Santa Barbara (CA), Nelson became passionate about promoting awareness of air and water pollution. He proposed a teach-in (seminar) at colleges and universities that caught the media's attention. The date April 22nd was chosen since it was a weekday and it fell between spring break and final exams.

The idea transformed into the first Earth Day celebration in 1970. Dennis Hayes, an activist at the time, was recruited to be Earth Day's national coordinator for the event. The name "Earth Day" was coined by copywriter Julian Koenig due to its simplicity.

Thus, people took to the streets to protest pollution. New York Mayor John Lindsay blocked off part of 5th Avenue to speak at a rally in Union Square. Also that year, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) was created and the Clean Air Act was passed.

However, it wasn't until 1990 when Earth Day went global with the help of Dennis Hayes. Today, 192 countries celebrate Earth Day with 1 billion people engaged. People can take part in numerous activities, such as cleanups, rallies and plantings, to do their part.

This year's theme is "Planet vs. Plastics." The goal is to persuade businesses, citizens and governments around the world to dramatically reduce their plastic usage. Earthday.org is committed to reducing the use of plastics by demanding a 60% reduction in the production of all plastics by 2040.

Environmental Companies

Do Their Part

Environmental services companies also do their part such as Elk Environmental Services (an Empire group company), including:

Managing industrial and residual waste to appropriate facilities for treatment, recycling, incineration, and disposal.
Remediation and offsite disposal of waste associated with brownfield, superfund, and contaminated properties.

As an environmental services company, Elk has served the Mid-Atlantic region for over 30 years. Below are Elk's services that correlate with Earth Day efforts.

Contact Elk today to learn what they can do for you next project!

Elk Provides a Variety of Services for a Roofing Manufacturer

Tue, 09 Apr 2024 14:37:43 GMT

K eeping operations running smoothly! Elk Environmental Services, one of our affiliates, is dedicated to ensuring your company's peak performance with a variety of industrial services. Recently, they tackled a multifaceted project at a roofing manufacturer in Maryland. Below are the highlights from the project.

Cleaning a Flux Tank

Elk's team cleaned a 50,000 gallon flux tank. They utilized a 40,000 psi hydro-blaster to clean the tank from top to bottom to prepare it for demolition.

Cleaning Production Cable Wheels

The crew tackled the task of cleaning production cable wheels. They utilized a 40,000-psi hydro-blaster to restore these vital components to their optimal state.

Removing Process Piping

In addition to cleaning a flux tank and production cable wheels, they removed abandoned process piping containing asphalt/oil and liquid from a roof line. The material was contained before removal.The team used non-sparking tools/equipment to cut the piping into small pieces that were transported to a local disposal facility.

Ready to elevate your company's efficiency? Reach out to Elk today to learn how their Industrial Services can benefit your operations.

Have You Seen Elk's New Website?

Elk Environmental Services has launched a brand-new website ! With a vibrant and dynamic theme, they've made sure to enhance the customers' browsing experience. But that's not all - they've also introduced the convenience of

e-Commerce functionality. This means Elk's valued customers can now easily purchase on-demand trainings and even make deposits or payments for services directly through the website. We're thrilled they now offer their customers a seamless and improved website experience.

An Egg-celent Egg Hunt

Tue, 26 Mar 2024 17:49:35 GMT

Despite the dreary weather outside, the spirit of Easter shone brightly within the walls of Empire Group's corporate office on March 23rd. Excitement filled the air as the children and grandchildren of employees eagerly gathered for the annual egg hunt, a cherished tradition within the company.

While waiting for the entertainer, the kids decorated foam Easter wreath kits in Empire Group's training room. They had ample space to craft their Easter masterpieces, as the tables generously provided space to accommodate their creativity.

The highlight of the event was the return of The Amazing Mr. Q from the Mlanjeni Magical Theater , renowned for his captivating performances rooted in East African artistry. With a blend of puppetry, music, and interactive storytelling, Mr. Q had the kids laughing and dancing throughout his magical showcase. The children eagerly participated as volunteer assistants, adding to the joyous atmosphere.

As the show drew to a close, the excitement was building as Mr. Q primed the eager participants for the egg hunt. The children were split into three groups and given specific tasks to find hidden eggs throughout the office. Their quest began with great energy and baskets awaiting discovery. Meanwhile, the Easter bunny made a delightful appearance, spreading joy with candy and hugs.

After collecting the eggs, the kids enjoyed juice and cookies. They also enjoyed fruit snacks, goldfish, Ritz crackers, and cupcakes. The kids opened their eggs as Chris Goerner (Empire Group) handed out Rita's gift cards.

Even though it was a soggy Saturday, the event ended on a heartwarming note, a testament to the enduring spirit of Easter and the sense of community fostered within the company. Have a Happy Easter from everyone at the Empire Group!

National Ladder Safety Month: Climbing to New Heights in Safety

Mon, 11 Mar 2024 14:53:33 GMT

Whether you are in construction or maintenance, improper use of a ladder can lead to injuries, death and even property damage. Ladders come in a variety of shapes and sizes, and it’s tempting to use one ladder for several purposes. However, with proper education, awareness, and safety practices, many of these accidents can be avoided. That's where National Ladder Safety Month comes into play.

What is National Ladder Safety Month?

Observed every March, National Ladder Safety Month aims to raise awareness about the importance of ladder safety and reduce the number of ladder-related injuries and fatalities. Organized by the American Ladder Institute, this initiative provides resources, tips, and guidelines to promote safe ladder usage in various settings, including workplaces, homes, and construction sites.

Common Causes of Ladder Accidents

According to the World Health Organization, over 680,000 individuals die from falls globally each year. In the U.S., there are over 160,000 trips to the emergency room to treat injuries sustained from falling off a ladder annually. To avoid injuries or OSHA fines, following ladder safety rules is a must.

Many ladder accidents occur due to human error or negligence. Some common causes include:

Incorrect ladder choice: Using the wrong type or size of ladder for a task increases the risk of accidents.

Poor ladder setup: Failing to properly set up the ladder on stable ground or at the correct angle can lead to falls.

Overreaching: Stretching too far while on a ladder destabilizes it and increases the likelihood of falling.

Ignoring weight limits: Exceeding a ladder's weight capacity can cause it to collapse.

Ignoring safety precautions: Neglecting to use safety gear, such as harnesses or stabilizers, puts individuals at greater risk of injury.

Do You Have Ladder Safety Training?

Ensuring safety and compliance necessitates ladder safety training. OSHA’s Title 29 Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) Part 1910.23 , breaks down the application of rules and general requirements for ladder use, covering fixed, portable, and mobile ladder stands and platforms.

For comprehensive ladder safety training, turn to Empire Group’s safety team . Elk Environmental Services, an Empire Group affiliate, offers various courses including Ladder Safety Awareness for Construction, Stairways and Ladders for Construction, and Ladder Safety for General Industry. Led by experienced OSHA Outreach Trainers Ed Clemas and Jamie Caron, these programs encompass the latest practices to ensure thorough training. With Elk, you can choose from 40 different training programs, each designed to provide certifications and, in some cases, continuing education units (CEUs). Schedule your ladder safety training with Elk today for peace of mind and compliance assurance.

What's New this Winter at Empire Group?

Wed, 28 Feb 2024 21:55:30 GMT

As we say goodbye to winter, we reflect on some of the exciting Empire Group affiliate projects. We enjoyed helping our customers achieve their goals. From snow plowing to installing an electric line, there have been a variety of projects. Let’s take a look at a few of them.

Finally … A Snow Day!

In addition to providing turnkey services to our affiliates, we also provide snow removal for various parking lots. After a few small snow- storms in January, we finally got a substantial amount of snow during the February 13th snowstorm, with snowfall totals in Berks County ranging from 5 to 10 inches. While many ended up enjoying a snow day, crews from DVC and Empire Services were hard at work providing exceptional snow removal at parking lots all over Berks County.

Elk Helps to Keep Production Levels High

Elk Environmental Services offers a variety of industrial services to help businesses stay at optimal operation levels. Just recently, they tackled the task of cleaning production cable wheels at a roofing manufacturer. The team utilized a 40,000-psi hydro-blaster to restore these vital components to their optimal state!

DVC Assists Empire Services on a Bridge Project

Looking to efficiently dispose of materials from your site? Give DVC a call when you require materials transported to both recycling facilities and landfills for one project. Just like their recent collaboration with Empire Services, an Empire Group affiliate, on a steel bridge demolition project. Steel was loaded into DVC’s barrel trailer for transportation to a recycling facility.

DVUC Installs an Electric Service

DVUC's skilled technicians can take care of any pipe or cable installation quickly and efficiently with minimal disruption to the surrounding area. They recently installed a new electric service in a rural development. They utilized F5 locating equipment to ensure accuracy and a horizontal directional drill to bore a path to the determined location.

The Work Continues at Allentown Metal Works

An engineering review recently determined that some of the supporting steel beams, columns, and crane rails could not be reused. The Empire Services team skillfully torch cut them into manageable pieces for removal and transport.

It's been a busy winter for Empire Group and its affiliates. We are grateful our affiliates were part of a variety of projects that helped customer’s complete their projects on time and on budget. We look forward to the projects we’ve scheduled this spring!

An Extra-Special American Heart Month!

Fri, 09 Feb 2024 16:38:16 GMT

Happy American Heart Month! We celebrate heart health awareness month in February. This month is even more special since it's the American Heart Association's (AHA) centennial anniversary! Founded in 1924 by six pioneering cardiologists, the AHA's mission has been to combat heart disease through groundbreaking scientific research and to provide top-notch treatment and prevention strategies. These dedicated physicians convened in Chicago to shine a light on the fight against heart disease and to pursue a cure.

They held their first scientific meeting the following year, except during World War II, and it's been an annual event since then. This gathering has evolved into the preeminent cardiovascular conference in the United States, attracting world-renowned cardiologists from across the globe.

During 1948, the AHA underwent a significant transformation from a professional, scientific society into a national volunteer health organization, and it awarded its first research grant to a Nobel Prize laureate, Dr. Albert Szent-Gyorgyi . The AHA has gone on to fund 14 Nobel Prize winners and grown in size to 35 million volunteers and supporters.

The importance of heart health significantly increased when Buffalo Bills Safety Damar Hamlin collapsed on January 2, 2023, after being hit in the chest by Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver Tee Higgins. The sudden hit by Higgin's helmet put Hamlin into cardiac arrest ( commotio cordis ). The quick action taken by the medical team and the use of an automated external defibrillator (AED) saved Hamlin's life. Since the incident, Hamlin has teamed up with the AHA with his Chasing M's Foundation to promote CPR and AED education and training. The program is called a Nation of Lifesavers .

If you're unsure about the CPR procedure or how to use an AED, Elk Environmental Services , one of our affiliates, can help! Elk offers comprehensive First Aid/CPR training monthly. Learn the essential CPR basics, including chest compressions and adult CPR, to earn your CPR certification. Schedule your training today by reaching out to Ed Clemas or Jamie Caron and master the life-saving skills of CPR resuscitation.

What's New This Winter at Elk

Fri, 26 Jan 2024 21:32:53 GMT

It's the start of a new year and Elk Environmental Services , one of our affiliates, is ready to handle their customers' environmental needs. We are grateful for their exciting projects and events in the last few months. Let's take a look at few of them.

New Team Members

Mike Hatzivasilis

Senior Account Manager

Mike brings his sales expertise to Elk from Associated Steam Air & Hot Water. He is excited to build new relationships as well as provide exceptional customer support in Eastern Pennsylvania, Maryland and New Jersey.

Amber Nuse

Field Technician

Amber loads and off-loads waste, delivers and picks up drums and provides administration support in the technical department.

Donna Space

Administration Assistant

Donna provides part-time administration support to our Elk North team.

Lillie Franco

Transportation Assistant

Lillie supports the transportation team with scheduling and paperwork.

Since 1988, Elk has been providing environmental waste solutions to industrial and commercial businesses. Contact them today to learn what they can do for your business!

Are You Prepared for an Emergency?

Wed, 10 Jan 2024 19:14:42 GMT

At the start of the new year, it's a good idea to review your safety plans. One of them should be your emergency preparedness and response plan. OSHA has designated January as Emergency Preparedness Month. Whether the response is to a weather or workplace event, it is vital workers are prepared to protect themselves and to minimize damages.

Do You Know the 5 Stages of Emergency Management?

Accidents will occur, but their severity depends on how prepared you are for them. This is where your emergency preparedness and response plan comes in. The plan should incorporate the five stages of emergency management.

Prevention: Knowing the types of emergencies that occur, from man-made to technological, helps to mimize the impact. Evacuation plans, environmental studies and product/structure design have roles in helping to prevent emergencies.

Preparedness: This stage is ongoing with planning, training, equipping, evaluating and taking action. Running fire drills and knowing evacuation routes are helpful to ensure preparedness.

Response: How we respond to an emergency shows how well the team prepared for it. This involves the resources and actions taken to reduce the impact of the emergency.

Recovery: Once the threat to workers/workplace/area has passed, the recovery process can begin. This process consists of restoring the health of workers and functionality of the facility through the resources determined in the response stage.

Mitigation: After recovery, mitigation has takes place. To prevent or reduce the effects of an emergency structural and non-structural actions or measures are completed, such as establishing building codes, a communication plan, or re-zoning areas.

If you don't have an emergency preparedness and response plan or if your current plan hasn't been reviewed for some time, we can help! Our authorized OSHA Outreach trainers can meet with you to discuss your company's particular safety needs to create a customized plan. Contact Jamie Caron today to learn more!

Empire Group's Annual Breakfast with Santa 2023

Mon, 11 Dec 2023 15:27:39 GMT

Empire Group celebrated the spirit of the season with an incredible turnout of nearly 40 children at its annual Breakfast with Santa on Saturday, December 2nd. The event was held at the Mohnton Fire Company community room in Mohnton, PA, and started at 8:30 AM. While the kids eagerly waited for Santa’s arrival, they had fun crafting festive Christmas trees and gingerbread houses.

The Mohnton Fire Company did a fantastic job making sure the breakfast ran smoothly. The breakfast buffet is well known in the community since they serve breakfast every third Sunday of the month (until Father's Day). As the fun wound down around 10 AM, families left with not only cherished memories but also goodie bags and presents in tow.

This heartwarming event was the last one of the year for Empire Group employees and their families. A big thank you to all those who made this event possible, including Chris Goerner and Ellen & Sabrina Ganime. We also send a special thank you to Todd & Karen O'Neill, Harry & Cathy O'Neill, Wayne Lamp, and the Mohnton Fire Company. We can’t wait for next year’s Breakfast with Santa!

Happy Thanksgiving from Empire Group

Wed, 22 Nov 2023 18:18:02 GMT

This Thanksgiving season, Empire Group is blessed and grateful for all our employees who make our business successful. This past year we paid tribute to our employees with several appreciation days – Family Fun Day at Knoebels, 31st Annual Empire Group Golf Open and the Annual Fishing Rodeo. Also, Empire Group was grateful to participate in Motta’s Thanksgivemas and the 59 ^th Annual King Frost Parade. In addition to these amazing events, we look back on some of the unique jobs our employees have performed this year with some of our projects highlighted below.

Elk Environmental Services loves helping businesses stay at optimal operation levels with their industrial services! They cleaned a 50,000 gallon flux tank at a manufacturer in Maryland. Utilizing a 40,000 psi hydro-blaster, their field services team cleaned the tank from top to bottom to prepare it for demolition.

Delaware Valley Utility Contractors installed a sanitary force main for a new apartment complex of 519 units in Manchester, New Jersey. The crew efficiently ran an HDPE pipe 400 feet down the shoulder of a busy road for the sanitary force main with minimal environmental and traffic disruption.

Empire Services took part in the transformation the former Allentown Metal Works plant in Allentown, Pennsylvania, as part of a collaborative effort with Marcon Properties, LLC and Allen H. Butz Inc. Marcon Properties, LLC, repurposed two buildings to create a modern production facility for affiliated Eastern Exterior Wall Systems. The project on the smaller building began in October 2022, with the bulk of the work having been completed in mid-January 2023. Empire Services performed select demolition and excavation work on the historically significant manufacturing site. In addition to these responsibilities, the team actively contributed to the project's overall success by assisting in the budgeting, planning, and value engineering in conjunction with Allen H. Butz Inc.

We are thankful for all our front line employees as well as those who work behind the scenes, ensuring that all projects are completed with the highest level of customer satisfaction. At Empire Group, we take pride in our employees. We are only as strong as they are and look forward to finishing 2023 strong! Have a safe and Happy Thanksgiving!

A Beautiful Day for Thanksgivemas

Mon, 13 Nov 2023 15:41:54 GMT

The holiday season is here and what better way to kick it off than with a festival that combines family fun and a toy drive! Motta’s Country Gardens and Landscaping in Birdsboro, PA held their second annual Thanksgivemas on November 4 ^th . It was a chilly start to a fun-filled day that included face painting, a petting zoo, a bounce house, games, food and more! Even Santa, the Fightin’ Phils Screwball and Motta’s Rocky stopped by to join in the fun. Empire Group attended the event along with many local businesses. We had a great time and learned a lot about our business neighbors.

There were 900 in attendance, which was less than last year. However, there was almost double the amount of donations! The variety of raffle baskets, including ours, had everyone buying tickets. Empire Group’s Ellen Ganime won the Unique Pretzels basket! There were two food trucks offering a vast menu, from hot dogs to sausage and peppers, along with other treats. Yet, the main attraction was the Toys for Tots drive. Several collection boxes were in front of the tri-axle dump truck Motta’s was trying fill with unwrapped toys – and they were full! The final count is still to be determined.

At Empire Group, we love supporting local businesses and community projects (e.g., Toys for Tots). We are grateful to be able to contribute raffle baskets and to enjoy these fun events. We look forward to attending Thanksgivemas next year!

The Top Five Workplace Safety Violations of 2023

Fri, 27 Oct 2023 12:48:49 GMT

Workplace safety is a paramount concern for employers. A safe and healthy workplace not only protects the well-being of workers but also enhances productivity and overall job satisfaction. Failure to provide the correct safety gear and require it on the job could result in injuries or even fatalities. Yet, they aren’t the only issues when it comes to safety. Many employers do not provide safety training, or they provide insufficient training. This is not the kind of protection workers need and deserve. Each year, the Occupational Safety and Health Association (OSHA) compiles a list of the top ten most frequently cited workplace safety standards, which reveals the areas that need to be improved. Below are the top five workplace safety violations for the fiscal year 2023 throughout the nation.

Fall Protection – General Requirement (OSHA Standard No. 1926.501) – It comes as no surprise this standard is in the number one spot with 7,271 violations. It has held onto this spot for 13 years in a row!

Hazard Communication (OSHA Standard No. 1910.1200) – With 3,213 violations, it has held on to this spot again. Hazard Communication not only addresses chemical hazards onsite, but those that are also imported into a facility.

Ladders (OSHA Standard No. 1926.1053) – Moving up one spot to number three, this standard still made the top five with 2,978 violations. It applies to all ladders, including extension, job-made, wooden, and step.

Scaffolding (OSHA Standard No. 1926.451) – This standard moved up a spot to number four this year with 2,859 violations. Also included in OSHA's scaffold requirements are aerial lifts since they often replace traditional scaffolding in many industries.

Powered Industrial Trucks (OSHA Standard No. 1910.178) – Jumping up into the top five violations this year (from the number seven spot last year) with 2,561 violations, this standard relates to the safety, design, maintenance and use of fork trucks, platform lift trucks, motorized hand trucks, tractors, and other specialized industrial trucks powered by electric motors or internal combustion engines.

It is interesting to note that most of these standards were in the top five most frequently cited standards last year. Employers must do more to protect their employees. It starts by making safety an essential part of a company. At Empire Group, we put safety first with our employees. Our health and safety trainers ensure the safety of our employees with the latest safety trainings. They also provide safety training and consulting services to companies that do not employ a full-time safety representative. Contact us today to learn more!

Fall Means Empire Group Fishing Rodeo & Picnic

Tue, 17 Oct 2023 17:30:23 GMT

Every fall Empire Group employees look forward to Empire Group's Annual Fishing Rodeo and Picnic. The rodeo was held on Sunday, October 8 ^th at Todd and Karen O’Neill’s farm. Empire Group employees and their families enjoyed a fun morning of fishing and prizes, which ended with a great lunch. There was a great turnout for the event with 60 people attending. To get everyone warmed up, a table of assorted drinks and coffee with pastries was set up. The action started around 9:00 a.m. and lasted until 12:00 p.m.

The property contained three ponds of different sizes to provide budding fisherman (and fisherwomen) their choice of spots to cast their lines. When not fishing, people explored the beautiful farm. The kids got an up-close look at the animals, which included baby yaks, camels, donkeys, goats, and bison. The camels were happy being fed treats from Chuck Lightcap’s ( Empire Services ) granddaughter Marlow Snyder and Glenn Oesterling’s ( Elk ) son Chase Oesterling. The farm also provided a great spot for lunch overlooking the ponds.

We were treated to delicious hotdogs and burgers along with French fries and drinks from the On Fire Youth Ministries food truck. After lunch, we enjoyed watching the kids receive prizes. There were a number of awards culminating with the grand prize winner who caught the most fish - Jake Oesterling with 16 fish. Congratulations Jake! And every child who attended was gifted a Wal-Mart gift card.

As the fishing rodeo came to an end, we all had fun stories to share. No matter the affiliate company, the employees of the Empire Group come together to take part in many of the family-oriented events held by the company. We would like to thank Todd and Karen O'Neill and Russ Oswalt ( DVC ) for putting on this great event once again. We hope to see everyone back next year!

Another Great Tournament for Empire Group

Mon, 25 Sep 2023 15:01:39 GMT

It was a chilly start to the 28th Annual Empire Golf Classic on September 16, 2023, at Willow Hollow Golf Course in Leesport, PA. We had 84 of the finest golfers from Berks County playing in this fun event. This year, we began earlier with a shot gun start at 7:00 AM and the action was over by 11:30 AM. Once the match was completed, we enjoyed a wonderful lunch of fried chicken, cold cuts, pierogies, baked beans, potato salad, macaroni salad and various side dishes, snacks, and drinks. After the luncheon, the tournament winners were announced.

Team Winners

First Place: Val Santo, Ray Plummer, Dave Albright, and Mike Wagner with a score of minus 20 – an excellent score! A replacement was brought in for Val but didn’t leave his name. We wish you a speedy recovery Val! This team was a guest of Berks Transfer.

Second Place: J P Mascaro team – Steve Medaglia, Geoff Ward, John Colucci and Scott Hefentrayer. The team had a score of minus 14 – an awesome score! The team was a guest of DVC Trucking.

Third Place: Haines & Kibblehouse team – Michael Mast, Baird Gavin, Ryan Haines, and Dan Kozel with a score of minus 12 – great playing guys! The team was a guest of DVC Trucking.

Closest to the Pin Hole Winners

#3 Mike Mast

#5 Shawn Overley

#6 Jay Blimline

#9 Jake Rhody

#14 Tyler Fronina (My Grandson)

Longest Drive Winners

Men’s hole: #16 Scott Heff

Women’s hole: #16 Denise Pietrobono

A Big Thank You

I would like to thank those who helped me put this event put together. Without them, things would not get done. If I forgot anyone, I apologize!

Mark Rotkiske

Tyler Fronina

Mandy Rotkiske

Kara Latshaw

Michelle Oswalt

Kaitlyn Daugherty

Charity Oswalt

Makayla Rotkiske

Brenda

Chris & Tom Goerner

John Zeswitz

Scott Oswalt

Ellen Ganime

Sincerely,

Russ

Russell P. Oswalt, Sr.

VP of Transportation, DVC

Empire Group Summer Wrap Up

Thu, 14 Sep 2023 13:58:22 GMT

As we say goodbye to summer, we reflect on some of the Empire Group employee appreciation events and projects. While we enjoy helping our customers achieve their goals, we also enjoy spending time with our employees and their families, to let them know how much we appreciate them and their hard work. Let’s take a look at a few events and projects.

National Night Out

Family Fun Day at Knoebels

Empire Services & DVC Team Up for a Thrift Store Drop-Off Area

The Empire Services team recently performed select demolition at a new thrift store opening this month in Reading, PA. The store is renovating an existing retail space to create a drive-through/drop off area for donations located in the rear of the structure. The team removed the roof and exterior walls to make way for the new drop off area. DVC helped to keep the project on schedule with efficient transport and disposal of the roofing material and an exterior cinderblock wall.

Elk Environmental Services Builds a Better Elk North

In our effort to provide more quality environmental services, Elk’s North office in Wysox, PA, has added team members, a bottle truck, and equipment. These changes have made Elk North stronger, continuing the tradition of providing top-level customer satisfaction over the past 12 years.

It's been a busy summer for Empire Group and its affiliates. We enjoyed getting together with co-workers, family and friends at great events. And we are grateful our affiliates were part of a variety of projects that helped customer’s complete their projects on time and on budget. We look forward to the events and projects we’ve scheduled this fall!

A Beautiful Family Fun Day at Knoebels

Tue, 22 Aug 2023 14:38:41 GMT

Employees and their families enjoyed a beautiful family fun day at Knoebels on Saturday, August 19th. There was a great turnout this year with 150 attendees, who enjoyed a bountiful feast of hot dogs, hamburgers, chicken, sausage, corn on the cob, macaroni and cheese and various side dishes, drinks and desserts at the picnic. After lunch, everyone headed into the park. This year’s event was extra special since it was the first time for some family members of employees.

There were some new employees and their families who attended the event. Some of them included Misty Allen and her family (Elk North), Killian “Killy” Oberholtzer (Elk’s Ellyn Nitsch’s nephew) and Nick Shade and his family. Killy enjoyed the Pioneer Train for the first time – and the first time on an amusement ride too! And Mary McBreen’s (Elk) dog Laramie also enjoyed the park!

Throughout the day, employees and families went into the park to have fun on the rides. There was something for everyone, from the faint of heart to the thrill seekers. Did you know the Grand Carousel is one of the largest carousels in the world with 63 horses and 3 chariots? Or that the Flyer is the only ride of its kind to operate in a clockwise rotation? There were plenty of other attractions to check out as well, including the shows and museums. Plus, winning a prize at one the numerous games was a great way to end the day!

There are many people to thank for all their hard work in putting on this annual event:

· Russ Mountjoy and his wife Kristi for putting together an amazing lunch, from providing the food to manning the grill.

· Wayne Mohr for assisting Russ with the buffet.

· Misty Allen and her fiancé Rob for helping with the set up.

· Todd & Karen O’Neill and Harry & Cathy O’Neill. We truly appreciate this special time with our families and co-workers at this historic park.

A Special National Night Out

Tue, 08 Aug 2023 15:09:29 GMT

It was that time of year again for National Night Out. The event was bigger and better than ever! Taking part in this amazing event with employees in Reading and Leesport was an honor for Empire Group. DVC's Russ Oswalt and Jimmy Blatt and Berks Transfer's Karen O'Neill handed out SAFETY stress relievers, Empire Group bags, stickers, toys, and snacks at the Reading location. Empire Group's Ellen Ganime and Berks Transfer's Mitzi Cote and Lauren Bohning offered the same giveaways at Schuylkill Valley High School in Leesport. Each location had fun and unique activities. Yet, what makes this event special is that it marks the 40th anniversary of National Night Out.

Across the United States, National Night Out is held on the first Tuesday in August (some states hold the event in October). It was founded in 1984 by Matt Peskin, who also created the National Association of Town Watch. Matt believed that a tight-knit community was the best tool to prevent crime. However, this could only happen if neighbors got outside and socialized with one another. Thus, National Night Out was born. Over 2 million neighbors participated in the first National Night Out in 23 states. The event has grown tremendously over the past 40 years, building bridges between police and communities through fun, music, and food. Nearly 40 million people attended National Night Out this year, and thousands of vendors participated nationwide.

Empire Group was one of the numerous vendors in Pennsylvania. We were in great company with businesses, first responders, and non-profit organizations. They ranged from insurance and car dealerships to healthcare and restaurants. There were a lot of new vendors this year, including Target, Penn State Health St. Joseph Medical Center, Stork’s Plows, and Fox Rose Farm. From hot dogs to cotton candy, there was plenty to eat while playing games and checking out various vehicles (e.g., Berks Emergency Response BearCat) and the LED robot operated by DJ Eddie Ed.

At the Leesport location, a Blackhawk helicopter got things started when it flew in and landed on the field next to the stadium. As for vehicles, DVC brought their tri-axle dump truck to the Reading location, while Berks Transfer brought their roll-off truck with a dumpster. Berks Transfer also supplied their black and blue dumpster to collect trash. Brilliant fireworks ended the event on a high note.

UPDATE

On September 5th, Empire Group received a Certificate of Appreciation from the City of Reading Police Department for our donation to their National Night Out 2023. We are thankful for the opportunity to be part of such a great event!

Editor's Note: This blog was originally published on August 9th and updated on September 6th.

What's New at Empire Group?

Tue, 25 Jul 2023 19:26:42 GMT

It’s hard to believe we’re halfway through summer! We have worked on a variety of projects, which included taking part in thrift store drop off, getting published, and providing industrial cleaning. Here are a few highlighted projects and events!

Empire Services Gets Published

Empire Services & DVC Team Up at a New Thrift Store

Elk Cleans Industrial Vessels

DVC Gets Chilled

Empire Services Transforms an Old Park

As we head into late summer, we look forward to the projects our affiliates have scheduled. We are thankful for the opportunity to work on these projects, which enabled our affiliates to help their customers to achieve their goals. We are also thankful for everyone who works behind the scenes to keep our affiliates operating safely and efficiently!

Empire Group Spotlight: Elk Environmental Services

Thu, 13 Jul 2023 14:06:08 GMT

As the second oldest in the Empire Group family of companies, Elk Environmental Services (Elk) provides a wide range of environmental services. The idea to create Elk formed when the Empire Services, an Empire Group affiliate, crew encountered hazardous waste on a job. Instead of putting the job on hold and adding costs to the customer, it was decided a new company would tackle the issue. Thus, in 1988, Elk was created. For over 30 years, Elk has provided emergency response, environmental remediation, waste management, industrial services, lab packing, and compliance training to the Mid-Atlantic states. Let’s take a look at some project highlights.

Tank Removal at a Local Park

Elk removed an underground tank at a local park. The technicians excavated/exposed the top of the tank, cut access, and vacuumed out the liquid and sludge. They removed the tank and transported it to a designated disposal facility.

Oil Skimmer Pit Cleanout

Elk has the training and the equipment to get into confined spaces to provide a thorough cleaning. One of their technicians cleaned out an oil skimmer pit at a local manufacturing facility. Elk’s vactor was used to pump out the liquid sludge. They also used a pressure washer to clean the walls.

Sampling Event at a Manufacturer

At Elk, we take waste characterization samples from a variety of industries to help generators determine if residual waste will be hazardous or non-hazardous per RCRA (Resource Conservation Recovery Act) guidelines. Elk chemists will perform the sampling, complete the paperwork and compare against standards to determine the appropriate waste classification. Recently, one of their chemists took a waste characterization sample of a liquid slurry waste at a manufacturer to be analyzed.

Fiberglass Tank Removal

Did you know Elk is a PADEP-certified storage tank removal company? Elk’s field services team removes a variety of underground storage tanks. They removed two fiberglass storage tanks at a local storage facility.

At Empire Group, we take pride in Elk’s expertise and experience in providing real-world solutions for environmental needs. They are committed to quality service, timely response, and worksite safety. Give them a call today to learn what they can for your project!

Do You Know How to Protect Yourself from Heat Illnesses?

Tue, 27 Jun 2023 14:24:01 GMT

Workers that work on outdoor sites must be aware of the dangers that can affect their health. During the summer months, the heat (and humidity) can be dangerous and cause severe health issues if not treated right away. This is especially true with heat illnesses . They occur during the summer months due to high temperatures and humidity. There are three heat illnesses that produce a wide range of symptoms. Do you know how to protect yourself from them?

The three heat illnesses are heat cramps, heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Some may include prickly heat (heat rash) or heat syncope (fainting), but we will not be covering them in this blog. Believe it or not, these heat illnesses can easily occur. While trying to get the job done, it's easy to miss one or more symptoms of any one of them. To know how to protect yourself from them, you first need to know how to identify them.

Heat Cramps – They occur after strenuous activity, where the body loses fluids, salts and minerals. If only the fluids are replenished, the muscles will cramp and spasm. Heat cramps can occur in the arms, legs, stomach, and other areas after the activity (work) or at night.

Heat Exhaustion – More serious than muscle cramps, heat exhaustion can result from the excessive loss of water and salt from the body through sweat. It occurs when the body cannot properly cool itself and can progress to heat stroke. Seek medical attention immediately if this happens. Some symptoms include excessive sweating, vomiting, headache, fainting and painful muscle cramps. Cool skin is a symptom, but it is important to note that cool skin temperature is not an indicator of a normal body temperature. Even if the skin is cool to the touch, the internal body temperature can be extremely high.

Heatstroke – The most serious of the three heat illnesses, heatstroke is the result of the body’s regulating system is overrun with excessive heat. While this heat exhaustion and heat stroke share some symptoms, there are differences. A person does not sweat while experiencing heatstroke and muscles can twitch uncontrollably. Another difference is body temperature. Heatstroke raises the body temperature significantly within 10 to 15 minutes, whereas heat exhaustion slightly elevates the body temperature. It is vital medical treatment is provided promptly since heatstroke can be fatal.

How to Protect Yourself in the Summer Heat

Now that you are aware of the heat illnesses, it’s important to take measures to protect yourself from them.

1. Hydrate – While is important to stay hydrated no matter the season, summer is when hydration is needed the most. To stay properly hydrated, drink plenty of fluids, such as water and sports drinks, and avoid fluids that contain caffeine (e.g., soda).

2. Use Sunscreen – Apply sunscreen with at least 30 SPF to exposed skin while working outdoors. Wearing a hat and sunglasses are also good protection, if allowed on site.

3. Take Breaks – Even though there is a tight schedule, taking breaks will help you avoid becoming overheated. The schedule will not matter if you are unable to work because of a heat illness.

At Empire Group, safety is our top priority. We are aware of the dangers of working outdoors during each season and provide training to help prevent injuries. The summer months can be extremely hot, so we do everything we can to keep our employees cool. And our affiliates are always ready to provide quality services for a variety of services. Contact us today to learn more!

What Is National Safety Month?

Tue, 06 Jun 2023 13:30:06 GMT

The focus on safety in the workplace has never been greater. Too many times, we hear of accidents at a facility or job site, whether receiving a chemical burn from improper handling of chemicals or falling from an improperly erected scaffold. According to the U.S. Labor of Statistics , 5,190 workers died in 2021, an increase of 8.9% from the previous year. The number of non-fatal work-related injuries and illnesses was 2.6 million in 2021, a decrease of 1.8% from 2020. Despite this good news, we cannot rest on our laurels. Safety awareness needs to be part of every company to reduce safety-related risks. One way to boost safety awareness is through National Safety Month.

Safety in the workplace has improved a deal in the past 50 years since the creation of the Occupational Health & Safety Act (OSH Act) in 1970. However, as technology advanced, so did the need for more safety practices and protocols. Workplace safety got another boost with the creation of National Safety Month in 1996 by the National Safety Council (NSC).

Celebrated at the start of summer, National Safety Month strives to decrease the number of work-related illnesses, injuries, and deaths in the workplace. June is selected due to high temperatures since several heat-related injuries occur in summer, including heat stroke, dehydration, and sunburns. There is also an increase in motor vehicle accidents due to construction work on roadways.

During National Safety Month, there are weekly topics to help spread safety awareness and prevention per the National Safety Council. This year, the topics are:
Week 1 – Emergency Preparedness
Week 2 – Slips, Trips & Falls

Week 3 – Heat-Related Illnesses
Week 4 – Hazard Recognition

At Empire Group , safety is our top priority. We have developed safe processes and systems that allow for a systematic, controlled, and detailed approach for every project of our affiliated companies. We also offer health and safety training through Elk Environmental Services . At Elk, you’ll find over 40 training courses taught by our experienced OSHA-authorized outreach trainers, which can be customized to suit your company's needs. Contact us today to learn more!

Wrapping Up a Busy Spring!

Mon, 22 May 2023 15:56:24 GMT

It’s been a busy spring for the Empire Group! We have worked on a variety of projects, which included taking part in a PennDOT project, winning an award, and being part of an annual community event. Here are a few highlighted projects and events!

As we head into summer, we look forward to the projects our affiliates have scheduled. We are thankful for the opportunity to work on these projects, which enabled our affiliates to help their customers to achieve their goals. We are also thankful for everyone who works behind the scenes to keep our affiliates operating safely and efficiently. We wish everyone a happy summer and a happy Memorial Day!

Top Four Reasons for Using a Dumpster

Tue, 09 May 2023 18:03:46 GMT

Chances are you have driven past one recently, since construction, cleanup and landscaping seasons have started. It can come in different colors and sizes. It’s a dumpster! When we think of a dumpster, we picture one at a construction site. While this is a primary reason for using a dumpster, there are other reasons for their use. Empire Group is very familiar with dumpsters since one of our affiliates, Berks Transfer, rents them at affordable rates to companies and individuals. Let’s take a look at the top four reasons why people rent them.

1. Construction – Dumpsters are found on many types of construction sites, from new construction to home renovation. They are not only a great way to keep a construction site clean, but also to keep the debris collection at a central location. Depending on the site, you may only have one type of material going into the dumpster, such as concrete or dirt. Or, you will have several types of materials, from roofing shingles to windows. Before you rent a dumpster, it is important to check with the dumpster rental company what materials can be deposited in the dumpster .

2. Landscaping – When it comes to landscaping, dumpsters are used for large-scale projects, which typically involve clearing away brush, grass clippings, branches, leaves, and shrubs. Landscaping can also include hardscaping, the use of solid materials to create walkways, patios, decks, and outdoor kitchens. For instance, a walkway could be redesigned along with the planting of new shrubs and plants, or a drought-tolerant front yard could be created.

3. Storm Clean Up – In the past few years, the tri-state area has seen an increase severe storms, especially tornadoes. For example, in July 2021, Pennsylvania and New Jersey were hit with 11 tornadoes ! There were six tornadoes last month as well. The damage from these storms creates massive cleanups that require roll-off dumpsters.

4. House Cleanouts – Whether you are moving or doing a spring cleaning, the amount of “stuff” we collect over the years can be staggering. This includes furniture, clothing, toys, exercise equipment, and electronics. From basements to the whole house, there are dumpsters of various sizes to handle the volume. Again, check with your dumpster rental company to learn what they accept. Many do not accept hazardous waste or e-Waste.

No matter the season, you can count on Berks Transfer’s knowledgeable staff to provide the right dumpster for your project, saving you time and money. They offer 12, 20, 30 and 40-yard dumpsters with convenient drop off and pick up. Don’t let your project last longer than necessary because you got a roll-off dumpster that was too small! Contact Berks Transfer today!

Let's Celebrate Earth Day 2023

Fri, 21 Apr 2023 18:16:24 GMT

Did you know the idea for Earth Day was created by Senator Gaylord Nelson in 1969? After witnessing the oil spill in Santa Barbara ( CA), Nelson became passionate about promoting awareness of air and water pollution. He proposed a teach-in (seminar) at colleges and universities that caught the media's attention. The date April 22nd was chosen since it was a weekday and it fell between spring break and final exams.

This year's theme is "Invest in Our Planet." The goal is to persuade businesses, citizens and governments around the world to invest in products and services that will improve the environment for future generations.

Environmental Companies Do Their Part

Let's all do our part to help improve the environment and to keep the spirit of Earth Day going all year long. Contact us today to learn more about us!

A Hopping Good Time at Empire Group's Annual Easter Egg Hunt

Tue, 04 Apr 2023 18:26:30 GMT

Spring means budding flowers, warm temperatures, and Easter egg hunts. Children love to find eggs in yards of all sizes – and even in offices. This past Saturday, Empire Group held an egg hunt at its corporate office for the children and grandchildren of employees. It was a fun afternoon filled with crafts, magic, snacks, and the Easter bunny!

As the kids waited for the magic show to start, they enjoyed decorating foam Easter basket kits in Empire Group’s training room. Large tables were set up as the decorating area, giving the kids plenty of room to create unique baskets decorated with butterflies, sparkles, googly-eyes and more. It was a great turnout this year with kids ranging in age from a 6-month old to a teenager. And everyone cheered when the entertainer arrived.

The entertainer was the Amazing Mr. Q, who was part of the Mlanjeni Magical Theater. The company specializes in East African performance art, an interdisciplinary art-form utilizing acting, dancing, and music. Mr. Q kept everyone laughing with his puppets, songs, and dancing along with the kids being volunteer assistants with the magic tricks. As the show wound down, Mr. Q got the kids revved up for the egg hunt.

There were three groups of kids, with the older kids tasked with finding a particular egg. The eggs were placed in certain areas of the office, and it was fun watching them fill their baskets.

Once all the eggs were found, juice and cookies were served. Other goodies included fruit snacks and a Rita’s gift card. As the snacks were served, the Easter Bunny stopped by for pictures. It was the perfect way to end the day. Have a Happy Easter from everyone at the Empire Group!

Empire Group Spotlight: Delaware Valley Utility Contractors

Fri, 24 Mar 2023 20:55:31 GMT

As the youngest in the Empire Group family of companies, Delaware Valley Utility Contractors (DVUC) was founded to provide a wide range of utility services for residential, commercial, construction, industrial, and agricultural customers in Eastern Pennsylvania, Delaware, New York, New Jersey, and Maryland. Since 2011, the DVUC team has completed thousands of projects for all organizations, from energy companies to educational institutions. Let’s take a look at some project highlights.

At Empire Group, we take pride in DVUC’s expertise and experience in providing real-world solutions for all underground utility needs. They are committed to quality service, timely response, and worksite safety. Give them a call today to learn what they can for your project!

Are You Trained in Ladder Safety?

Mon, 13 Mar 2023 18:36:27 GMT

March is National Ladder Safety Month. Whether you are in construction or maintenance, improper use of a ladder can lead to injuries, death and even property damage. Ladders come in a variety of shapes and sizes, and it’s tempting to use one ladder for several purposes. According to the World Health Organization, nearly 650,000 individuals die from falls globally each year. In the U.S. alone, there are over 160,000 trips to the emergency room to treat injuries sustained from falling off a ladder each year. The most common are broken backs, broken bones, and head injuries. To avoid injuries or OSHA fines, following ladder safety rules is a must.

The Different Types of Ladders

As mentioned above, there are many types of ladders. Although it may be expensive to have different ladders at your workplace, the cost far outweighs the money spent to keep employees safe. There are 14 different types of ladders, including step, extension, telescoping, warehouse, and A-frame. Each one has a specific purpose and should be properly maintained. Safety starts with knowledge; knowing which ladder to use and using it correctly. And if you use a ladder as part of your job, you need ladder safety training.

Ladder Safety Training

To be safe and compliant, ladder safety training is required. OSHA’s Title 29 Code of Federa l Regulations (CFR) Part 1910.23 breaks down the application of rules and general requirements for ladder use, including the specifics for the three main types of ladders: fixed, portable and mobile ladder stands and platforms.

Empire Group’s safety team can provide you and your team ladder safety training. Through our affiliate, Elk Environmental Services , you’ll find Ladder Safety Awareness for Construction, Stairways and Ladders for Construction, and Ladder Safety for General Industry. These trainings are taught by Ed Clemas and Jamie Caron, who are experienced OSHA Outreach Trainers. In addition, Elk offers 40 training programs with the latest practices to ensure proper training. Those taking our trainings receive certifications and some trainings offer continuing education units (CEUs). Contact Elk today to schedule your ladder safety training!

Empire Group Spotlight: Empire Services Repurposes Allentown Metal Works

Tue, 28 Feb 2023 17:19:19 GMT

Empire Services, one of our affiliates, is known for their expertise and experience in demolition and excavation. But did you know they work on repurposing projects? Like demolition, repurposing (or adaptive reuse) gives a property a chance to become something new again. In fact, it has given many manufacturing sites new leases on life.

One of Empire Services most recent projects is an example of this repurposing trend. That’s how they became involved in repurposing one of Mack Truck’s plants, which had been taken over by Allentown Metal Works (Allentown, PA) before closing for good in 2011. The property is unique because the products manufactured date back to the early 20th century, designating it a historical manufacturing site. The first owner and occupant of the property was Traylor Engineering Manufacturing Company (Traylor Engineering). In 1902, Samuel Traylor founded Traylor Engineering to manufacture heavy-duty steel components used in the mining, construction, and concrete industries. These products and even Mack Trucks could not keep this piece of Americana alive.

However, Allentown Metal Works will not be another footnote in Allentown’s history. It’s getting a second chance at life through Marcon Properties , LLC. The Allentown contractor is repurposing two buildings (160,000 square feet in total) on the property, creating a modern production facility for affiliated Eastern Exterior Wall Systems. Together with project partner Alvin H. Butz, Inc., Empire Services has given Allentown Metal Works a new purpose for future generations.

Working with AEDC

Serving as contractors first to the Allentown Economic Development Corporation (AEDC), Empire Services demolished Building A’s top floor after a partial roof collapse. That work enabled Empire Services to gain first-hand knowledge of the site, so when they were contracted by Alvin H. Butz, Inc. to assist with repurposing the facility, they were ready to perform select demolition and excavation work on the site. In addition, Empire Services helped budget, plan, and value-engineer the project with Alvin H. Butz, Inc.

Sequencing Strategy

The project started in October 2022, completing the bulk of the work in mid-January 2023. Since the existing buildings were stable, it made sense to repurpose them and reuse the materials. Empire Services began the project by working on the smaller of the two buildings. Taking the 50,000-square-foot building down to its shell for renovations was necessary, including the removal of all windows, window infills, roofing, roof decking, metal panel walls, mechanicals, utilities, doors, and partitions. Numerous roof purlins required removal due to deterioration of the wood since the building had not been operational or maintained for over a decade. Also, mechanical equipment pits in the floor required equipment and material removal prior to backfilling with crushed concrete and clean stone providing a level surface for the new concrete slab installation.

When it came to devising the demolition strategy, it all came down to sequencing. “The strategy for this project was straightforward. We had to develop a sequenced approach that would allow us to maximize our productivity, while ensuring we still had a safe work site with minimal hazards,” says Matt Bard, Empire Services estimator/project manager.

Empire Services needed to perform the select demolition as quickly and efficiently as possible, coordinating multiple crews working simultaneously and releasing completed sections of the building for other contractors. As a result, renovation and rehabilitation work on the building began earlier than expected, exceeding deadlines to have the new manufacturing site operational.

Interior Demolition

Empire Services began with interior demolition working from the roof down to the slab. They removed partitions and other finishes by removing mechanical features from the roof level and worked down, moving east to west through the building.

Once the interior demolition was approximately 50% completed, additional crews demolished roofing and wall sections. Next, the windows and window infills were removed following the same east-to-west approach, allowing multiple crews to work simultaneously and providing a safe drop zone for demolished roofing materials. Multiple articulating boom lifts, ranging in height from 45' to 135', were used to access the different levels of roofing material, windows, and mechanical features.

While completing the work, a bobcat with a grapple bucket and an excavator loaded out and managed materials to keep the job site as clean and safe as possible. Upon completion of roof and wall demolition, Empire Services moved on to demolish select sections of concrete slab where required for future slab on grade, again working from east to west. A CAT 325 excavator with a hydraulic hammer was used to fracture and remove sections of raised and thickened slabs to provide the appropriate grade for the new concrete slab installation. Demolition of the slabs and completion of wall openings occurred in February 2023.

Tackling Challenges

The biggest challenge was working at height with a crew varying in size (6 - 10 members). Working to surgically remove roofing panels and mechanical features from the basket of a personal lift is never an easy task. Performing torch cutting (or other demolition work) while wearing a harness and being tied to the equipment's anchor point to ensure proper fall protection is always a challenging and time-consuming process. As work progressed and additional trades began to work on site, coordination of deliveries, work areas, and safety became critically important.

By developing a sequenced approach, Empire Services successfully completed the project ahead of time and on budget. They recycled approximately 20 tons of metal and reused 200 cubic yards of crushed concrete as part of the pit infill. The new manufacturing site will bring back the excitement of Allentown’s manufacturing history and provide an economic boost to the city. Contact Empire Services today to learn what they can do for your next project!

Let's Celebrate CPR & American Heart Month

Tue, 14 Feb 2023 15:38:04 GMT

The most popular New Year’s resolution is to improve one’s health. This is a great resolution, but by the time February rolls around, it’s a distant memory. Now is the best time to get back on track with your resolutions, starting with your heart. February is American Heart Month. It’s a celebration of the ways people can improve their cardiovascular health. One way is to learn cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). This lifesaving procedure has gained a great deal of attention due to Buffalo Bills Damar Hamlin going into cardiac arrest during a football game last month. Buffalo Bills Trainer Denny Kellington jumped into action and performed CPR on Hamlin. The doctors at University of Cincinnati Health Center credit Kellington with saving the Buffalo Bills safety’s life. CPR does save lives, yet many do not know much about it.

The Birth of CPR

CPR has been around for a long time and is a vital part of life-saving assistance in cardiac emergencies. It’s interesting to note that CPR’s inception dates to the 18th century with the first method of mouth-to-mouth resuscitation (Bellow’s Method). Mouth-to-mouth became the standard when it was officially recommended by the Academie des Sciences in Paris for drowning victims. In the 19th century, chest compressions were added to the procedure. However, CPR was officially developed in 1963. The American Heart Association (AHA) launched a program to teach doctors close-chest compressions during cardiac emergencies. Thus, in the same year, the AHA endorsed CPR. This program became the forerunner for CPR training for the public. In 1966, the National Research Council of the National Academy of Sciences hosted a conference on CPR, which led to the establishment of standardized CPR training and performance guidelines.

CPR Today

CPR has become safer and easier over the past 60 years thanks to updated guidelines and technologies. AEDs, manikins, and The Life Saver are just a few of the new technologies that have made CPR more effective. Furthermore, CPR resources are available on several devices to assist with the procedure wherever you are. This is important since over 350,000 cardiac arrests occur outside of a hospital each year.

It is important for everyone to know how to perform CPR. The best way to learn the procedure is from a certified trainer. And what better month to learn it than during American Heart Month? Empire Group's safety officers are certified in CPR and First Aid by the American Heart Association. They provide CPR training at our Reading facility, or they can come to yours. Contact Ed Clemas or Jennifer Gonzalez-Ortiz to schedule your CPR training today!

A Focus on Safety: The Top Five OSHA Violations of 2022

Fri, 27 Jan 2023 20:57:26 GMT

Fall Protection – General Requirement (OSHA Standard No. 1926.501) – It comes as no surprise this standard is in the number one spot with 5,260 violations. It has held onto this spot for 12 years in a row!

Hazard Communication (OSHA Standard No. 1910.1200) – With 2,424 violations, it jumped from number five last year to this spot. Hazard Communication not only addresses chemical hazards onsite, but those that are also imported into a facility.

Respiratory Protection (OSHA Standard No. 1910.134) – It slipped from number two to number three last year with 2,185 violations. The biggest violation under this standard is written medical evaluations. Employers did not provide medical evaluations before their employees were fit tested and used their respirators.

Ladders (OSHA Standard No. 1926.1053) – Slipping from the number three spot to number four, this standard still made the top five with 2,143 violations. It applies to all ladders, including extension, job-made, wooden, and step.

Scaffolding (OSHA Standard No. 1926.451) – This standard fell from number four to number five this year with 2,058 violations. Also included in OSHA's scaffold requirements are aerial lifts since they often replace traditional scaffolding in many industries.

It is interesting to note that these violations were in OSHA’s top five violations last year. Employers must do more to protect their employees. It starts by making safety an essential part of a company. At Empire Group, we put safety first with our employees. Our health and safety trainers ensure the safety of our employees with the latest safety trainings. They also provide safety training and consulting services to companies that do not employ a full-time safety representative. Contact us today to learn more!

Empire Group: The Power of Change

Tue, 17 Jan 2023 16:43:13 GMT

Empire Group: The Power of Change

Change is inevitable; it can make or break a business. The businesses that use it as a driving force for growth are the ones that discover new markets and gain customers. They don’t let it hold them back; it makes owners and employees work harder and be more creative in finding solutions. The Empire Group builds on this principle.

Empire Services

In 1955, Harry “Whitey” O’Neill, Jr. founded Empire Wrecking. Based in Reading, Pennsylvania, the company specialized in demolition and excavation and would become the cornerstone of Empire Group’s success. In 1972, Whitey’s son, Harry O’Neill III, took over the business, which would become Empire Services . Todd O’Neill, Harry’s brother, joined the business in 1980 as Executive Vice President and currently serves as President.

The idea to create another company originated when the Empire Wrecking crew encountered hazardous waste during a job. Instead of putting the job on hold and adding costs to the customer, a new company evolved to tackle the issue. In 1988, Elk Environmental Services (Elk) solved the problem.

Elk Environmental Services

With the right skill sets and specialized equipment, Elk soon became known for providing turnkey services for environmental issues. Elk’s services grew to meet the needs of their customers, whether they needed hazardous waste transported or a hazardous spill cleaned up. They added Lab Packing, Vacuum Trucks, Tank Removal, Confined Space Entry, Industrial Cleanings, Energy Services, and Health and Safety Training. Elk adapted to meet ever-changing environmental regulations while maintaining full compliance. As Elk and Empire Services evolved, additional changes were on the horizon. These included the creation of the rest of the companies under Empire Group.

Delaware Valley Contractors

The need to transport construction, demolition, and residual waste from Elk and Empire Services jobs arose. Thus, Delaware Valley Contractors (DVC) was born in 1990. A full-service trucking company, DVC took care of the transportation issue with its fleet of modern trucks. Today, DVC transports bulk materials and equipment to contractors and developers around the tri-state area. The disposal part of the equation was the formation of Berks Transfer.

Berks Transfer

Since 2002, Berks Transfer has accepted municipal, residual, and construction waste and has been attracting customers from Eastern Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and New York. This non-hazardous waste processing facility has expanded to accept up to 1,000 tons of waste daily and offers dumpster rentals ranging in size from 12 to 40 yards.

Delaware Valley Utility Contractors

The latest addition to Empire Group is Delaware Valley Utility Contractors (DVUC). Founded in 2011, DVUC specializes in a full range of pipe and utility installations for residential, commercial, construction, industrial, and agricultural customers in Eastern Pennsylvania, Delaware, New Jersey, and Maryland.

Empire Group has changed a great deal since its beginning nearly 70 years ago. The changes sparked the creation of five affiliate companies and new services, providing exceptional customer experiences. Empire Group is constantly looking to expand its services to meet the needs of its customers.

Empire Group: A Brief Look at 2022

Fri, 06 Jan 2023 21:26:35 GMT

With the start of a new year, businesses reflect on the success they had in the last 12 months. They also take the time to appreciate their customers. At Empire Group, we truly appreciate our customers and the variety of projects awarded to our affiliates. Below are some project highlights from last year.

New Additions

DVC, Elk and Berks Transfer expanded their fleets this year!

DVC

2022 Rogers Trailer

2022 Kenworth Dump Truck 2022 Kenworth T880 Roll Off Truck

ELK

2019 Kenworth Bottle Truck 2023 Kenworth T880 Tractor

BERKS TRANSFER

2022 Hitachi Zaxis 250 LC Excavator

Before we get into the hectic pace of 2023, we just wanted to take a moment to thank our customers for their business and support. The projects completed by our affiliates demonstrate our experience and capabilities to provide exceptional customer experiences. We look forward to serving our customers this year and helping them achieve their project goals!

A Merry Breakfast with Santa

Tue, 06 Dec 2022 20:24:44 GMT

Empire Group held its annual Breakfast with Santa on Saturday, December 3rd. The event was held at the Mohnton Fire Company community room in Mohnton, PA, and started at 8:30 AM. The kids eagerly anticipated Santa's arrival.

The event was the last one of the year for Empire Group employees and their families. A big thank you to everyone who made this event possible. We also send special thanks to Todd & Karen O’Neill, Harry & Cathy O’Neill, and the Mohnton Fire Company. We can't wait for the next Breakfast with Santa!

Happy Thanksgiving from Empire Group

Tue, 22 Nov 2022 21:16:09 GMT

This Thanksgiving season, Empire Group is blessed and grateful for all our employees who make our business successful. This past year we paid tribute to our employees with several appreciation days – Family Fun Day at Knoebels, 27 ^th Annual Empire Group Golf Open and the Annual Fishing Rodeo. In the fall, Empire Group was grateful to win two awards at the Keystone Truckin’ Nationals. In addition to these amazing events, we look back on some of the unique jobs our employees have performed this year with some of our projects highlighted below.

What's New at Empire Group

Fri, 04 Nov 2022 20:10:37 GMT

While preparing for winter, we've been enjoying an exciting fall. We were fortunate to hold a wonderful group event, win some awards, purchase a new vehicle -- just to name a few of the activities. Let’s take a look at some highlights!

A Chilly Fishing Rodeo

It was a beautiful day for the annual Empire Group Fishing Rodeo on October 8th. The chilly morning didn’t stop those vying for the biggest catch at Todd and Karen O’Neill’s home. There was a great turnout for the event, with numerous kids and even a few dogs. To get everyone warmed up, a table of assorted drinks and coffee with pastries was set up. The action started around 9:00 a.m. and lasted until 12:00 p.m.

The kids fished three fully stocked ponds and were catching largemouth bass and trout. The fishing was a blast as the kids would bring their catch to be measured by Chris Goerner. The happy anglers were supplied with the bait they would need to land the biggest fish of the day. When the fishing rodeo was completed, all the anglers and their parents were treated to a wonderful lunch provided by the Wenger Foundation food truck that served a variety of great food.

Just when the fun was almost over, it was time to hand out the prizes to all the children that came to fish. One of the prizes was for the biggest fish caught, which went to Jaedyn Jones at 16 inches. Another prize was the most fish caught, which went to Delaney Newswanger. We would like to thank Todd and Karen O'Neill and Russ Oswalt for putting on this great event once again. We hope to see everyone back next year!

Empire Wins Big at Keystone Truckin’ Nationals

On Saturday, October 15th, Eric Roush, Austin Landis, Stew Rivers, Jim Blatt, Jaquann Alston, and Louis Rodriguez from Delaware Valley Contractors ( DVC ) attended the Keystone Truckin’ Nationals at Maple Grove Raceway in Mohnton on behalf of Empire Group. The event took place in the parking lot next to the stands with over 300 trucks to check out. Empire Group won two awards: Best Appearing Bobtail - Daycab (Empire Wrecking’s 1972 Mack truck) and Best Appearing Service Truck (DVC’s Ford F550). We can’t wait for next year’s show!

Elk North Gets a New Truck

At Empire Group, there is always something going on no matter the season. We are grateful to be able to hold and go to numerous events as well as provide the best customer experiences with the latest vehicles and equipment. We look forward to the colder weather of winter and the new opportunities it brings!

Happy Fire Prevention Month!

Tue, 11 Oct 2022 18:27:03 GMT

October is here and the leaves are changing color, and everyone is getting ready for Halloween. However, many do not know that October is Fire Prevention Month. This celebration was expanded from Fire Prevention Week (second week in October), which was created by the National Fire Protection Association in 1922. This year marks the 100 ^th anniversary of the event with fire dep artments providing fire safety demonstrations across the nation. Although fire safety is extremely important for the home, we must not forget about the workplace. The safety plans created for businesses must include fire safety. One of the activities this month should be reviewing the fires safety practices within th ese plans .

No matter what type of business you have, fire safety is a vital part of creating a safe work environment. In fact, The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) requires employers to have fire protection and prevention programs in the workplace. Did you know that OS HA has specific fire safety standards for recordkeeping, general industry, maritime and construction? Do you know the fire protection and prevention safe work practices in your safety plan?

At Empire Group, we have safety plans for each affiliate as well as a safety plan for the group. Each safety plan covers fire safety, which includes fire safety practices for fire extinguishers, safety routes, evacuation routes, and emergency planning. These plans were created by our Corporate Safety Officer Jamie Caron . As part of our Environmental, Health and Safety division, we offer consultation services to help businesses develop safety plans tailored to their needs.

In celebrating Fire Prevention Month, we are reminded of how valuable fire prevention practices are and that they are a vital part of a safety plan. Employers and employees must know how to use these practices to create a safe workplace. Empire Group salutes everyone that promotes fire safety and wish everyone a happy Fire Prevention Month!

Empire Group Thrives on Variety

Tue, 27 Sep 2022 17:45:15 GMT

Empire Group’s affiliates provide a wide array of services, from remediating soil and hauling heavy equipment to demolishing structures and installing water mains. Recently, our affiliates completed a variety of interesting projects. Below are just a few project highlights!

A Passive Park in Robesonia

Providing Soil Remediation in New Jersey

A Force Main Installation in New Jersey

At Empire Group, we enjoyed seeing our affiliates work together as well as individually to complete these projects. We are grateful for these opportunities and for the hard work of each affiliate. Contact us today to learn how our affiliates can help you achieve your project goals!

A Busy Summer for Empire Group!

Fri, 02 Sep 2022 18:26:08 GMT

As we say goodbye to summer, we reflect on some of the Empire Group outings held this year. While we enjoy helping our customers achieve their goals, we also enjoy spending time with our employees and their families, to let them know how much we appreciate them and their hard work. Let’s take a look at our summer events!

National Night Out -- Empire Group was proud to take part in such an amazing event with employees at two locations – Reading and Leesport. The Reading location was on Penn Street with DVC' s Russ Oswalt and Berks Transfer's Karen O'Neill handing out mini frisbees and snacks. The Reading Police brought their K-9 unit and bomb squad for demonstrations. The evening was hot, and the Reading Fire Department was on hand to cool off the kids with water from one of their hoses set up like a sprinkler. We were in good company with a variety of businesses, non-profits, and organizations.

The Leesport location was at the Schuylkill Valley High School. Berks Transfer's Mitzi Cote and Lauren Bohning (with daughter Ryleigh), Empire Group's Ellen Ganime and DVC's Jimmy Blatt handed out a variety of goodies (e.g., snacks and cloth bags) while kids checked out DVC's tri-axle dump truck as well as Berks Transfer's black and blue dumpster. There were several fire companies, police departments and businesses at the event providing delicious food and games with prizes too. A small stage was set up at the end of the venue, where a band played classic hits. The night ended with brilliant fireworks.

Annual Empire Group Golf Classic -- The Golf Classic was held on August 20th at Willow Hollow Golf Course in Leesport, PA. It was a great day weather-wise, and we had 88 of the finest golfers from Berks County arrive to play in this fun event. There was a shot gun start at 8:00 AM and all the action was completed by 12:00 noon. Once the dust settled, we had a chance to collect our thoughts and enjoy a wonderful lunch. After the luncheon, the following winners were announced; to learn who the winners were, check out delawarevalleycontractors.com/another-great-empire-group-golf-classic .

Russ Oswalt was in charge of the event, and was very grateful to all the people who helped him to put the event together:

Pam Oswalt (Russ’s Wife & Kitchen General)

Michelle Oswalt

Mandy Rotkiske

Makayla Rotkiske

Missy Sebio

Charity Oswalt

The muscles for helping Russ get things loaded up and the beer guards:

Scott Oswalt

Marky Rotkiske

Tyler Fronina

Robert Graul

Ellen Ganime (Marketing Director)

Once again, a big thank you to everyone who made this event possible and a special thanks to Todd & Karen O’Neill and Harry & Cathy O’Neill -- without them we could not do this every year!

Family Fun Day at Knoebels – Employees and their families enjoyed a beautiful family fun day at Knoebels on Saturday, August 27th. There was a great turnout this year with 140 attendees, who enjoyed a bountiful feast of pulled pork, hot dogs, hamburgers, corn on the cob, baked beans, macaroni and cheese, chili, macaroni and potato salads, chips, and various desserts at the picnic.

Throughout the day, employees and families went into the park to have fun on the rides. There was something for everyone, from the faint of heart to the thrill seekers. Did you know that the Flying Turns is the world’s only trackless roller coaster? Or that the S & G Carrousel is over 100 years old? There were plenty of other attractions to check out as well, including the shows and museums. Plus, winning a prize at one the numerous games was a great way to end the day!

There are many people to thank for putting on this annual event:

Russ Mountjoy and his wife Kristi for putting together an amazing lunch, from providing the food to manning the grill. Thank you for all your hard work and delicious food!
Everyone who helped set up and break down the Empire Group pavilion, especially Tom & Chris Goerner and Billy Ruth.
Todd & Karen O’Neill and Harry & Cathy O’Neill. We truly appreciate this special time with our families and co-workers at this historic park.

The events we put on this summer were just some of the ways we showed our appreciation for our employees and their families as well as our customers. We were able to get together with old friends and made some new ones! As we head into fall, we look forward to more events and the projects our affiliates have scheduled. We wish everyone a happy fall and a happy Labor Day!

Getting Ready for the New School Year with Help from Empire Group

Fri, 26 Aug 2022 15:33:56 GMT

It’s hard to believe a new school year is about to start. There is a lot that goes into getting a school ready for the new year. Many believe the preparation starts in August with stores stocking school supplies and fall clothing. This is true, but to get a campus ready requires more time and planning. School improvements and organizing classrooms (i.e., labs) start as early as spring. Let’s take a look at the services offered by our affiliates that help schools and universities prepare for the return of students and faculty.

Empire Group Celebrates National Night Out

Tue, 09 Aug 2022 16:35:42 GMT

National Night Out is held on the first Tuesday in August in many communities across the United States (some states hold the event in October). It was founded in 1984 by Matt Peskin, who also created the National Association of Town Watch. Matt believed that a tight-knit community was the best tool to prevent crime. However, this could only happen if neighbors got outside and socialized with one another. Thus, National Night Out was born. The first National Night Out was held in 23 states that involved over 2 million neighbors. The event has grown tremendously over the past 30 years, building bridges between police and communities through fun, music and food. This year’s National Night Out was a success with 38 million in attendance nationwide, with Empire Group as one of the numerous vendors in Pennsylvania .

Working Outside in the Summer: Are You Protected?

Tue, 05 Jul 2022 19:05:19 GMT

There are some jobs that require outside work, such as landscapers, construction workers and laborers. At Empire Group, our affiliates have workers that must work outside (some more than others). No matter if you are unloading a truck or excavating a job site to get it building ready, there are ways to protect yourself from the summer sun and other outdoor issues. Let’s take a look at some of them.

1. Sunburn – if you are on job site during peak sun hours, protecting yourself from sunburn is a must. Wearing light, UV-protection clothing is best, but if you can’t, apply sunscreen to exposed skin every 80 minutes. If you do get sunburn, apply aloe immediately and frequently.

2. Bees & Wasps – Along with the summer heat , there are bees and wasps. Did you know there 25 types of bees and wasps, including the Paper Wasp, Bumblebee and Yell ow Jacket. When you see them, keep your distance, and don’t swat at them or make fast movements. If you can, walk away from them until they fly away. If you are severely allergic, keep an EpiPen handy. Otherwise, you can treat bee and wasp stings with hydrocortisone cream or calamine lotion.

3. Hydration – Summer heat can cause dehydration, which can lead to heat stress. It’s important to stay hydrated by drinking one glass of water (8 ounces) every 20 minutes. Drinking at shorter intervals is more effective than drinking large amounts a few times a day. It’s also important to drink water after work, especially working in the summer heat on a regular basis since most people need several hours to drink enough fluid to replace what was lost through sweat.

4. Supervision – It’s important to have a person on site trained to look for signs of heat stress as well as to offer first aid. Also, workers should be acclimatized to working in hot conditions. This traini ng should be part of your company’s safety plan .

5. Thunderstorms – If you are caught in a thunderstorm , seek shelter immediately. If a structure is not accessible, go to your vehicle (hard-topped metal vehicle) to wait out the storm.

At Empire Group, the safety of our employees is very important to us. We strive to make work environments safe and offer training to help prevent injuries. Our affiliates are always ready to provide quality services for a variety of projects. Contact us today to learn more!

Are You Ready for National Safety Month?

Wed, 08 Jun 2022 18:32:26 GMT

Workplace safety is always a concern not just among employers, but also with employees. Throughout the year, there are months dedicated to certain safety topics to help promote awareness. For example, March is National Ladder Safety Month, May is National Electrical Safety Month and September is National Preparedness Month. However, the most important topic occurs in June, which is National Safety Month.

The National Safety Council started National Safety Month in 1996. The need for a safe workplace has increased steadily in the past decade due to the number of workplace injuries and deaths. For instance, in 2020 there were over four million work-related injuries that required medical attention. Also, there were over 200,000 injury-related deaths – a 16% increase from 2019!

During National Safety Month, the National Safety Council discusses an important safety topic each week via membership:

· Week 1 : Musculoskeletal Disorders – Sprains, back pain, and carpel tunnel syndrome and more.

· Week 2 : Workplace Impairment – Substance use (and/or abuse) on the job, including stress and fatigue.

· Week 3 : Injury Prevention – Methods of preventative workplace injuries.

· Week 4 : Slips, Trips, and Falls – Learning how to reduce injuries from slips, trips and falls.

At Empire Group, safety is an important issue. We created safe and systematic approaches to helping our workers stay safe on the job. While June is National Safety Month, we continue our uncompromising commitment to the health and safety of our employees, subcontractors, customers, and community all year long. What can you do to create a safe work environment? Happy National Safety Month!

A Busy 2022 Spring for Empire Group

Tue, 24 May 2022 15:08:04 GMT

Spring signals the start of the construction season in the Mid-Atlantic region. At Empire Group, our affiliates have been very busy with a variety of projects, including interior demolition, lab packing and product transport. We are thankful for the opportunity to work on these projects with limited interruption to their operations, which enabled us to help our customers achieve their goals. Below are some of the projects our affiliates completed recently.

At Empire Group, we are excited for the projects our affiliates will work on this summer. Contact us today to learn how they can help your project run smoothly!

Why Is Clean Air Month Celebrated?

Tue, 10 May 2022 13:14:56 GMT

Environmental awareness has grown stronger with each decade. Recycling, purchasing electric vehicles and developing renewable energy sources (e.g., wind and solar) have become more common as we strive to reduce our carbon footprint on the planet. Pollution continues to be a concern due to new chemicals and products. They have affected our lives in many ways, one of them is poor air quality. It has become a huge issue, in which one way to combat it is dedicating a month to promoting clean air.

May has been declared National Clean Air Month. The goal of the event is to educate people about the impact clean air has on their lives. This celebration has been sponsored by the American Lung Associated since 1972 and started as a week-long event. In 1994, the event was stretched to a month. There are certain cities in the U.S. where air quality has exceeded air quality standards set by the World Health Organization . According to Earth.org , the American Lung Association published its annual State of the Air report in April 2021, which found that 4 out of 10 people in the U.S. live in areas that have unhealthy and polluted air. Also, their report listed the 15 most polluted cities in the U.S. with California cities taking the top spots.

During this month, there are several events to help promote this cause with Bike to Work and Share a Car being the most popular. Other ways to reduce poor air quality are to reduce the heat in homes by installing energy-efficient windows, use battery-powered garden tools, and turning off your car while waiting for someone.

At Empire Group, we are aware of environmental issues through Elk Environmental Services , one of our affiliates. We all strive to help improve the environment, including air quality, by being fuel efficient with our vehicles and equipment and using eco-friendly products. Let’s all get involved and have a great National Clean Air month!

Empire Group’s Egg Hunt was EGG-celent!

Fri, 15 Apr 2022 19:33:30 GMT

Spring means budding flowers, April showers and Easter egg hunts. Children love to find eggs in yards of all sizes – and even in offices. This past Saturday, Empire Group held an egg hunt at its corporate office. It was a fun-filled afternoon for kids as they watched the Country Conjuring Magic show starring Erick Hershey. Volunteers from the audience helped the magician perform a variety of magic tricks.

After the magic show, the kids enjoyed decorating foam eggs with butterflies, sparkles, googly-eyes and more. There were egg craft kits to create animals using plastic eggs as well. The egg hunt started after the kids had their fill of making crafts. There were three groups of kids, with the older kids tasked with finding a particular egg. The eggs were placed in certain areas of the office, and it was fun watching them fill their baskets.

Once all the eggs were found, apple juice and cookies were served. Other goodies included a coloring book and a Rita’s gift card. Just as the event was winding down, the Easter Bunny stopped by for pictures. It was the perfect way to end the day. Have a Happy Easter from everyone at the Empire Group!

Top 4 Ways to Reduce Stress

Fri, 01 Apr 2022 16:18:21 GMT

April is Stress Awareness Month! With the pandemic; the need for workers; shipping delays; and the interruption to regional, national, and global supply chains; it’s no wonder why we are stressed out. And it’s not something to take lightly. According to the American Institute of Stress, 77% of people experience stress that affects their physical health. It can cause headaches, muscle strain, heartburn, and high blood pressure to name a few. Many combat stress in harmful ways, including overeating and drinking alcohol. However, there are a number of easy ways to reduce stress levels. Here are the top 4 ways to reduce your stress.

1. Relaxation Techniques – These techniques are for the body and mind, such as meditation, yoga, exercising and deep breathing. Talking a walk can do wonders to help you relax, especially in nature. Having a clear mind will also help you to be more productive.

2. Sleep – Getting a good night’s sleep is not only good for your overall health, but it’s also a great stress-buster. When we get enough sleep, we are in a better mood and feel energized.

3. Self-Care – We are so busy with work and family that we forget to take care of ourselves. It is important to block out some time in the day to focus on you. This can be getting a massage, going for a run, reading a book, or listening to music.

4. Disconnect – Disconnecting from technology is easier said than done since it’s all around us. We are “programmed” to check our phones several times a day. At home, we spend a great amount of time on our laptops or iPads. Also, there are a lot of negative stories on social media as well. Disconnecting from your phone for at least one hour each day will reduce your stress.

Whether at work or at home, stress is a constant issue. However, there are a number of ways to reduce it to stay productive and healthy. At Empire Group, our affiliates strive to reduce the stress created by projects by providing solutions that are cost-effective and efficient to their customers. Contact us today to learn how we can make your next project run smoothly!

The Top 4 Spring Driving Hazards

Mon, 21 Mar 2022 13:08:24 GMT

Spring is here and so are the hazards that go with it. The warm temperatures mean more construction, demolition, and excavation projects. They all require hauling materials to and from job sites and disposal facilities. Thus, there will be more construction vehicles on the road. It is important that each vehicle is not only ready for the road, but also the drivers must be aware of driving hazards. Let’s look at the top four spring driving hazards.

Potholes – They are a reminder of winter. The amount of snow and ice in the winter months determines how bad the potholes will be. Melting snow seeps into the ground and gets underneath pavement. The water freezes and expands, causing the pavement to weaken and crack. The water from melted ice causes pavement to contract, which causes holes in the surface. Hitting a large pothole can damage your truck’s shocks and suspension.

Rain – Spring means rainstorms. This is great for flowers, but not for drivers. Rain showers can cause flooding and hydroplaning . Many think semi-trucks cannot hydroplane due to the number of wheels and its weight. This is false. Hydroplaning occurs when a vehicle is travelling on a thin layer of water and not the road surface. It only takes a “film” of water beneath the tires to cause a truck to hydroplane. Also, leaked oil mixing with water can cause slippery driving conditions.

Road Construction – Warm weather signals the start of road construction season. This means slower traffic and alternate routes. Drivers should leave extra time for the haul if they know they will encounter road construction. It 's also important to watch for road construction workers in work zones.

Freezing Temperatures – Unexpected freezing can occur in early spring. The temperature can be warm during the day, but it could drop very low at night. If this happens after rainstorm, black ice can form. Drivers must be aware of this and take extra caution driving at night.

At Empire Group, safety is our top priority. No matter the season, we take every precaution to help ensure the safety of our drivers, customers, and the public. Contact us today to learn more about our approach to safety this spring!

Do You Know Ladder Safety?

Mon, 07 Mar 2022 19:29:55 GMT

March is National Ladder Safety Month. Whether you are in construction or maintenance, improper use of a ladder can lead to injuries, death and even property damage. Ladders come in a variety of shapes and sizes, and it’s tempting to use one ladder for several purposes. According to the World Health Organization, nearly 650,000 individuals die from falls globally each year. In the U.S. alone, there are over 160,000 trips to the emergency room to treat injuries sustained from falling off a ladder each year. The most common are broken backs, broken bones, and head injuries. To avoid costly medical bills, OSHA fines, and reducing your productivity, following ladder safety rules is a must.

The Different Types of Ladders

As mentioned above, there are many types of ladders. Although it may be expensive to have different ladders at your workplace, the cost far outweighs the money spent to get an employee back to work, as well as repair any property damage caused by the fall. There are 14 different types of ladders, including step, extension, telescoping, warehouse, and A-frame. Each one with a specific purpose and should be properly maintained. Safety starts with knowledge; knowing which ladder to use and using it correctly.

Are You Following the Rules?

Ladder safety must be practiced every day.

Never leave a ladder unattended. When not in use, place ladder on the ground or put away.
Maintain a 3-point contact (two hands and one foot or two feet and one hand) contact on a ladder when climbing.
Never hold tools or other items while climbing.
Keep your body near the middle of the step.
Face the ladder when climbing.
Use the correct ladder and accessories for the designed purpose.
Make sure the ladder is free of any slippery material or substance on the rungs, steps, or feet.
Do not use a self-supporting ladder as a single ladder.
Do not use the top rung/step on a ladder as a rung/step (unless it is designed that way).
Use the ladder on a stable, level, and non-slick surface.
Never place a ladder in front of a door that is not locked or secured.
Tie or fasten a ladder to provide longer sections (unless it is designed for that purpose).
Never use a ladder that was exposed to strong chemicals or fire since they can leave residual damage or corrosion, which are undetected during use.
Never exceed the maximum load rating.

Safety is a top priority at Empire Group. Our crews must go through extensive compliance training to remain safe on a job. Elk Environmental Services , an Empire Group affiliate, offers over 40 training programs with experienced trainers to ensure those taking our trainings receive their certifications as well as the latest safety practices. Contact us today to learn more!

How Does Your Business Adapt to Change?

Mon, 21 Feb 2022 18:59:22 GMT

Whether you are an entrepreneur or an experienced business owner, change is always a factor in how successful your business becomes. We all know that economic conditions affect profits, but in recently years, health has also been an issue. The pandemic has caused business owners to rapidly change their operations and strategies to help keep their staff safe and healthy. Change is seen by many to be a negative thing since it takes people out their comfort zone. However, by accepting change, businesses can thrive. In today’s business world, it is even more important to stay competitive. The most important skill to achieve this is the ability to adapt to change. While we all say we want to change, some are hesitant because they don’t know the best ways to do it. Let’s look at some ways to help your business adapt to change.

1. Accept the Idea of Change – We talk about change, but do we anticipate it? To anticipate change, we must first accept the concept. Change affects our mindsets. If we don’t change our mindsets, we will be stuck in the past. This is disruptive because it prevents us from moving forward. To stay competitive, business owners must always be moving forward, whether this is changing the way a product is made (or delivered) or how a service is performed.

2. Change Internal Processes – The pandemic has forced business owners to take a hard look at their internal processes. Since many are working from home, the processes that take place in the office have been modified. There is a new “normal”, which affects how we interact with employees and customers (e.g., virtual meetings). By examining internal processes, business owners can see ways to improve operations and develop new products or services to meet their customers’ changing needs.

3. Set New Goals – Along with a new mindset comes new goals. Business owners need to set new goals that align with customers’ needs. One new goal can be to connect more with customers via social media to increase digital presence.

At Empire Group, we understand the importance of adapting to change. By embracing change, we created five subsidiaries. Change will always be a constant in business, and it is a good thing. It will help keep businesses competitive and encourage them to reach new goals. Contact us today to learn more!

Top 3 Ways to Build Trust with Customers

Fri, 21 Jan 2022 20:12:16 GMT

There are several words that describe a relationship between a customer and company, such as customer experience and customer centric. Ten years ago, companies put the focus on the relationship between customer and product. Today, companies put the focus on the relationship between customer and company. They realize the shift from what a product can do for a customer to what a company can do for a customer. Customers want authenticity, a “real” connection . They want to be able to trust the company; they want to know that the company is genuinely giving them the best price and service (or product). This trust equates to gaining customers as well as retaining them. A repeat customer can even become a brand ambassador (a person who speaks positively about the company). Companies strive to create them, which is why there is such an emphasis on the customer-company relationship. So, how does a company earn a customer’s trust to create a strong relationship? Below are the top three ways to earn it.

1. Be Transparent – In today’s business climate being transparent is vital. If a customer is hit with hidden fees or service limitations, the person will be frustrated and not want to use the company again. The customer could post about the bad experience and/or tell friends and family about it. To remedy the issue, the company should find out what happened via feedback. Information gained from customer feedback should be used to correct the issue moving forward.

2. Showcase Testimonials – Putting testimonials on your website illustrates a company’s high standards for quality, whether in a product or service performed. Testimonials play a large role in the decision-making process and can affect the company’s reputation.

3. Communication – There is nothing worse than a customer not being able to contact a company. Being reachable is key to gaining new customers as well as retaining them. The contact information should be easily found on the company website (and on all paperwork). Also, the company should encourage customers to reach out if there is a problem (or recommendation for) with the product or service, along other ways to contact the company (e.g., phone, email, and social media).

At Empire Group, we have over 65 years of customer satisfaction and strive to build new relationships for decades to come. We place great value in each the relationships we have formed over the years. It all starts with trust. Our customers can trust us to treat them with respect and provide cost-effective solutions to solve their problems. Contact us today to learn more!

Top 3 Customer Experience Trends for 2022

Mon, 10 Jan 2022 15:16:12 GMT

Empire Services | January 10, 2022

I n any business, customer experience is what drives productivity and revenue. No matter the service (or product), the customer wants a seamless transaction and wants to feel as if they are being taken care of by someone who knows what is needed. With the increased use of automation, such as robots and chatbots , customers have better access to companies along with faster ordering. While au tomation has improved customer service, it has also changed the customer experience landscape. Let’s take a look at the top three trends for this year.

1. Human Touch vs. Automation -- Technology has made our lives easier by making shipping and purchasing a one-click process. However, some of this technology has created a shift in customers view of customer service. Many want to be able to speak to a live human instead being forced to use a chatbot or send an email. Thus, there will be more humans and less technology to provide customer support.

2. Employee Well-being –The staffing shortage is putting more pressure on employees. Customers are aware of this and expect employers to treat their employees better. Customers will go as far as switching to a company that does value their employees. Companies concerned with their employees’ well-being will see an increase in employee morale, which is one of the factors in keeping them from leaving. It will also put a spotlight on the issue and force other companies to take action.

3. Not About Cost – Up until recently, customers put pricing over customer service. This has changed due to shipping and product delays , which creates customer frustration. This emphasizes how important customer service is to a company. To ease frustration, companies have revised their customer service polices to make transactions frictionless and provide solutions.

At Empire Group, we built our reputation on providing comprehensive, cost-effective services to a variety of industries. At each affiliate, you will find trained, and certified employees to provide specialized services. They have the experience to anticipate our customers’ needs with customized solutions.

The Top 3 B2B Payment Trends in 2022

Mon, 20 Dec 2021 19:41:53 GMT

It is no surprise digital payments have become increasing popular over the past five years. However, the pandemic accelerated their use not only by company but also by payment methods. E-Commerce has been a leader in digital payment systems, yet now businesses (business-to-business) are catching up. Today, digital payments are part of the new “normal” in purchasing and selling services. Let’s take a look at the top three payment trends for next year.

1. Real-Time Payments (RTP) – RTP provides speed, security and accuracy since payments are made in real time. This means companies that use this payment method work with fintech companies to create payment models. This also means that companies can integrate financing in their payment systems.

2. Streamlined Payment Process – With this system, there will be a reduction in the number of steps and waiting time in the checkout process. It is also known as a frictionless experience where customers will have more choices for payment, such as mobile payments, digital wallets , and one-click payments.

3. Business Apps – These apps allow customers to pay directly to the business. In building an app, a company can offer loyalty tools to entice use, including coupons, points, and rewards.

Technology is changing the world at a rapid pace. Payment systems are part of this revolution and will provide more convenience and security in 2022. They will make purchasing easier without any intermediaries. At Empire Group, we are always looking for ways to improve the customer experience, from comprehensive services to specialized equipment.

Empire Group is Thankful for Their Employees

Tue, 23 Nov 2021 20:16:42 GMT

2021 has been a very challenging year, and especially during this Thanksgiving Season, we reflect back on the hard work and effort put forth by our dedicated employees. Empire Group is blessed and thankful for all the employees that make our business successful. This past year we paid tribute to our employees with several appreciation days like Family Fun Day at Knoebels , the 26 ^th Annual Empire Group Golf Open and Fishing Rodeo . These events are just some of the ways we express our gratitude to them.

We also look back on some of the unique jobs our employees have performed this year with some of our projects spotlighted below:

1. Storm Sewer Repair – A storm sewer failed, leaking oil into a detention basin at an electric utility’s storage facility. Empire Services replaced the plastic storm and pipe containment system with a large diameter ductile iron pipe, cleaned and reconnected the existing DIP valve, and installed new precast inlets with float system.

2. Removal of Underground Storage Tanks – Elk Environmental Services removed two underground storage tanks that were housed in a building utilizing a mini excavator to remove concrete and soil to gain access to the underground storage tanks.

3. Transport & Disposal of EMAS - DVC assisted Empire Services, one of our affiliated companies, in the cleanup of Engineered Materials Arresting System (EMAS) material at Reading Regional Airport. A plane skidded off the runway and was arrested by an EMAS. Empire Services cleaned up the material and DVC hauled it away to a disposal facility.

We are also thankful for the employees who are behind the scenes, ensuring that projects are completed with the highest level of customer satisfaction and keep our equipment performing at optimal condition. Each of our affiliated companies maintains a high operational level, which allows our employees to reach their goals and work in a safe environment.

At Empire Group , we take pride in our employees. We are only as strong as they are and look forward to finishing 2021 strong!

Top Three Business Trends for 2022

Thu, 11 Nov 2021 16:42:28 GMT

It’s the fourth quarter and we are already looking at the trends that will affect the business landscape in 2022. Our world is rapidly changing (economically, politically, and socially), which pushed us to be even more innovative and adaptable. This was especially evident with small to medium-size businesses. They were forced to take a hard look at their operating processes to survive as well as to plan ahead for any hardships. Yet, the one constant was technology, albeit we relied on it even more to help us to remain productive no matter the workspace with virtual conferences and meetings.

Automation and AI ( artificial intelligence ) became more prevalent by anticipating our purchase behaviors via our social media feeds as well as to make purchases without lifting a finger (e.g., Alexa and Siri). Business owners also experienced labor shortages and shipping delays, affecting consumer spending and confidence. What we have experienced has steadily shaped a new business landscape. Thus, the business trends below provide a snapshot of how businesses will potentially adapt in these uncharted times.

1. The When Factor – We mastered online shopping last year, but next year will be a different story. It is no longer the question of where we will buy products, but when we will get them. There are shipping and product shortages, not to mention labor shortages, thanks to the pandemic. Greater focus will be placed on when we get products, especially during the holidays. Will customers stock up on or buy in advance?

2. Cashless Payments – Using credit (or debit) cards instead of cash has become very popular over the past few years. Paying with a credit card allows for social distancing and provides a faster, detailed transaction without the need for a receipt. We can simply tap our credit card on a contactless enabled checkout terminal to get in and out stores quickly. Companies will be accepting credit cards in lieu of checks as well. In addition to using a card, another way to pay is using our smart watches (e.g., Apple Pay and Google Pay). They enable us to carry less, especially wallets.

3. Technological Balance – Although this is perceived as a social issue, it will still affect the way consumers view businesses as well as how business owners value their employees. More and more companies are using robotics and AI to do jobs that were once performed by humans. This creates a struggle to maintain a healthy balance of robots and humans in a company. How many jobs should be done by robots? Will a business owner shift the balance due to the changing nature of work?

Business owners have become more adaptable to survive the unpredictable market, while customers have relied more heavily on technology to make purchases thanks to the pandemic. Technology has also enabled people to remain productive, even with new schedules and workplaces. Hence, we have all had to rethink how to survive in an ever-changing world.

At Empire Group , we are ready for 2022. We have adapted our services during the pandemic and will continue to be flexible to provide the best customer experience, while following CDC guidelines. We look forward to a bright new year!

A Great Time at Empire Group’s Annual Fishing Rodeo

Tue, 19 Oct 2021 12:58:02 GMT

The fish were biting at Empire Group’s Annual Fishing Rodeo! Held at Todd and Karen O’Neill’s farm, Empire Group employees and their families enjoyed a fun morning of fishing, prizes, and food. The property contained three ponds (in a row!) of different sizes to provide budding fisherman (and fisherwomen) their choice of spots to cast their lines. It was such fun to see the little ones holding a fishing rod for the first time. When not fishing, people explored the beautiful farm. Would you believe there were camels? Yes! Other animals on the farm included donkeys, goats, and bison. The farm was the perfect place not only for the fishing rodeo, but also for lunch.

Lunch was held under a large tent on a hill that overlooked the ponds. We were treated to delicious hotdogs, burgers, and sausage sandwiches along with French fries, drinks, and whoopie pies from The Wenger Foundation and Bud and Joyce Mitstifer. After lunch, we eagerly waited for the prizes. There were a number of awards culminating with the grand prize winner (Chase Oesterling) with the largest fish (15 inches).

As the fishing rodeo came to an end, we all had fun stories to share. No matter the affiliate company, the employees of the Empire Group come together to take part in many of the family-oriented events held by the company. We’re looking forward to next year’s fishing rodeo!

Empire Group's Summer Wrap Up

Wed, 13 Oct 2021 19:58:06 GMT

It has been a busy summer for Empire Group! We enjoyed fun events, our affiliates provided an array of services for diverse projects, purchased new equipment/trucks, and welcomed new team members and summer interns.

Fun Company Events

Family Fun Day at Knoebels

On July 31st, Empire Group employees and their families had a wonderful time at the annual Empire Group Family Fun Day at Knoebels Amusement Park. The day began with a delicious buffet-style lunch prepared and served by Russ Mountjoy (Elk), his wife Kristi and daughter Kasiti. There was an array of smoked meats including chicken, hot dogs, hamburgers, along with plenty of side dishes, fixings, drinks, and desserts. We truly appreciate all their hard work and the amazing food. After lunch, everyone headed into the park to enjoy its many attractions, including rides, games and shows. It was truly a memorable event, and we look forward to next year’s Family Fun Day!

26 ^th Annual Empire Golf Open

The 26th Annual Empire Group Golf Open was held on August 21st at Willow Hollow Golf Course in Leesport, PA. We had 104 of the finest golfers in the area arrive for their 8:00 AM shot gun start. We had one golfer from Nashville, Tennessee and another from Myrtle Beach, South Carolina attend because of their appreciation for this wonderful event, and they were not disappointed. After the 4.5-hour round of golf, the players were treated to a delicious lunch of fried chicken and pierogis along with various meats to make the biggest sandwich they wanted. After lunch, Russ Oswalt handed out various awards, including:

· First Place with a score of -16: Deka Battery Team - Team Captain Lance Tarnoski

· Closest to the pins on each par 3 hole: # 3 Chad Quinter 3’2” (nice shot!)

· Longest Drive Hole (Women): # 2 Sharon Jablonski

A big thank you to Russ Oswalt for organizing the event and to his wife, Pamela, for serving as the caterer.

Diverse Projects from Our Affiliates

Removal of Oil Tanks

Elk Environmental Services removed two 1,000-gallon oil tanks inside of a building on a former mushroom farm in Kennett Square, PA. The tanks stored heating oil and had not been in service for many years. Since the tanks were inside the building, the work areas were small and did not provide enough room for large equipment. Elk’s team cut a rectangular section of the concrete to access the tank, minimizing the amount of concrete restoration work needed upon completion. The concrete pieces were removed with a mini excavator. Once the tank was opened, it was cleaned, pressure washed and removed. The hole was backfilled with 2A modified stone then compacted and leveled. The same process was used to clean and remove the second tank. The tanks were cut up for disposal. Lastly, the team restored the concrete slabs as requested by the client.

Demolition of a Landmark Firehouse

On June 9 ^th , the Gilbertsville Firehouse era came to an end. The structure was demolished to make room for a new, combined firehouse and Douglas (Montgomery) Township Police Department building. Empire Services’ experience staff and expert equipment, including our 345 John Deere excavator, CAT 321 excavator, Extec c12 jaw crusher, completed the project as well as recycled important materials from the demolition debris (e.g., steel). The demolition process began by opening the exterior wall and removing the interior features, which included large clear span steel trusses, various social club features, and the fire company working quarters. Even with its unusual pile design, this redevelopment project was a success, allowing the site to be prepared for building construction.

DVC Teams Up with Empire Services

DVC assisted Empire Services in the cleanup of Engineered Materials Arresting System (EMAS) material at Reading Regional Airport. EMAS is crushable material installed at the end of a runway to stop a plane from overrunning it. At the Reading Airport, EMAS successfully stopped a plane when it skidded off the runway. Empire Services cleaned up the material and DVC hauled it away to a disposal facility. Our affiliates often team up to provide turnkey services!

New Equipment/Trucks

New Trucks for DVC & Elk

DVC enhanced their fleet with a new Kenworth T880 tractor attached to a new 2022 East Walking Floor Trailer. Also, Elk expanded its vacuum truck fleet with a new Kenworth bottle truck.

New Team Members

Elk Environmental Services

Sawyer Davis Senior Lab Pack Chemist

Carlyn Edsell Office/Billing Coordinator

Jonah Evans Lab Tech Chemist

Matthew Machtinger Hazardous Waste Coordinator/Lab Pack Chemist

Kristy Rothenberger Administrative Coordinator (Part-time)

Jordan Ebert CDL Driver

Amy Parzanese Summer Intern

Empire Group

Matt Eshenaur Safety Officer

Hannah Seltzer Summer Intern

Empire Services

Shawn Rhoades Operations Manager

Shawn Barton Civil Estimator/ Project Manager

Empire Group is thankful for the wonderful events and the new team members over the summer months. We look forward to spending time with our employees and their families at our next company event and to more diverse projects from our affiliates. Contact us today to learn more!

4 Advantages of a Turnkey Solution

Wed, 13 Oct 2021 19:27:26 GMT

We hear the term “turnkey solution” used in many industries. It is a system that provides a number of services to complete a project (or product). It implies that a person simply turns a key to start using a service. A turnkey solution is beneficial to a customer in that there is no need for a third party or subcontractor. It saves time and money as well as avoids any miscommunication. When deciding if a turnkey solution is right for your project, you should take a look at its advantages.

1. Process – The turnkey provider should have a streamlined process in place that takes care of the possible issues that could arise during a project. This process should be end-to-end, me aning there is a service for each phase of a project.

2. Resources – There should be a number of resources available to complete the project. The resources depend on the project, which may include equipment, vehicles and materials.

3. Personnel – Having the right equipment is only one part of the equation. The personnel must have the knowledge to operate equipment, especially if it is specialized equipment. The team must provide unified communications to ensure each service is expertly performed.

4. Training – The team must have the training required to safety operate the equipment for the project and to provide a safe workplace or job site.

At Empire Group, we offer turnkey solutions for a variety of projects. We have multiple service lines with Empire Services providing excavation and demolition, DVC providing transportation, Berks Transfer providing waste disposal, DVUC providing utility installation and repair, and Elk Environmental Services providing environmental services. The companies work together to create a continuous process from start to finish, keeping your project on time and on budget. Contact us today to learn how we can create a turnkey solution for your company!

Labor Day: The Holiday for the American Worker

Thu, 02 Sep 2021 20:27:25 GMT

Labor Day: The Holiday for the American Worker

Empire Group | September 2, 2021

Labor Day falls on the first Monday in September and is the unofficial end to summer. It’s a day off from work to enjoy cookouts and parades. However, we cannot forget why Labor Day was created – to celebrate the American worker. America was built by workers who wanted a better life for their families. Yet, they were not treated fairly and worked long hours in unsafe conditions. This led to a labor movement in the late 1880s that created unions and produced many strikes and protest rallies.

One of the protest rallies resulted in 10,000 workers taking unpaid time off to march through New York City on September 5, 1882 . This became known as the first Labor Day parade in the United States. Workers in other cities heard about the “parade” and created their own “holiday”, which fell on the first Monday in September. Many states passed legislation to make Labor Day a holiday. Yet Congress held out and did not make it a federal holiday until 1894, after the Pullman Palace Car Company Strike. The strike ended when President Grover Cleveland sent in U.S. Marshalls and the U.S. Army because it interfered with the delivery of the U.S. mail. Thus, to repair ties between the U.S. government and workers, President Cleveland made Labor Day a national holiday by signing it into law on June 28, 1894.

Labor Day celebrates American workers and their achievements. At Empire Group , our employees are our greatest resource. We honor them not only with the holiday, but with several events throughout the year for them and their families. It is their hard work and dedication that have made us who we are today. We wish everyone a safe and happy Labor Day!

Top 3 Ways to Increase Office Environment Motivation

Fri, 27 Aug 2021 19:27:51 GMT

Top 3 Ways to Increase Office Environment Motivation

Empire Group | August 27, 2021

The workplace and workday have changed a great deal due to the pandemic. While some are still working remotely, others have ventured back into the office. There is a noticeable shift in the office environment when it comes to motivation. Stress, delays, and shortages have made some jobs very difficult, which affects employees’ productivity and concentration. They can leave employees disengaged. There has never been a greater need for a supportive work environment than today, and it starts with improving motivation in the office.

While there are many ways to motivate employees, let’s take a look at the top three.

1) Employee Recognition – Employees feel valued when they are recognized for a job well done. Recognition means more than just giving an annual bonus. It is about taking the time to recognize employees in a timely manner. This could be done during a meeting, in a company newsletter or in an email. Employees want to be more than just a “number” to their employers. Recognition provides a conne ction that leads to a measurable increase in job performance.

2) Consistent Rewards – Being rewarded for hard work is a great motivator. However, if the rewards are given out at a designated time (e.g., the end of the year), they can lose some of their appeal. When rewards are consistently given out (e.g., once a month), employees not only work harder, but they also look forward to receiving them. There are many types of rewards, such as lunches, gift certificates and awards.

3) Be Flexible – Offering flexible work schedules is a proven motivator. They make it possible for employees to work around appointments or picking up their children. This makes them even more aware of their time management and ensures that projects are done on time.

It is worth the effort to motivate your employees to keep them engaged. When employees are engaged, they will work harder for the good of the company. These three actions can create a motivating work environment, where employers and employees enjoy the benefits from them.

At Empire Group , we value our employees and take pride in creating a supportive work environment. Two of the many ways we motivate our employees are our group events held throughout the year for employees and their families and employee lunches. To learn more about Empire Group, we invite you to visit our website!

What is a Teamwork Culture?

Thu, 05 Aug 2021 21:09:21 GMT

What is a Teamwork Culture?

Empire Group | August 5, 2021

We have all heard of a workplace culture, but what about a teamwork culture? We know that teamwork is based on cooperation, where individuals make up a group that works towards a common cause. While both cultures are similar, meaning they both create a work environment that is beneficial to the company and its employees, there are differences. The primary difference is the focus of a teamwork culture is on completing projects to produce favorable results. To understand what a teamwork culture is we must look at its attributes.

Teamwork Culture Attributes

There are three attributes of a teamwork culture:

1. Support – This not only means providing the resources needed to ensure a successful project, such as a budget, talent, and equipment, but also encouragement. Management encourages teams to work independently as well as individuals to create teams to solve problems.

2. Training – Teams are giving the proper training for their positions as well as cross-training to solve additional issues that could arise on a project, which saves time and money.

3. Empowerment – The focus is on the team as a unit. The team is empowered to solve issues and to be self-reliant.

At the Empire Group, we foster a teamwork culture because our affiliates work together to complete a project. They present a unified approach to implement the best solution, which saves the customer time and money. For example, Empire Services, Delaware Valley Contractors (DVC), and Berks Transfer recently worked together to clean up Engineered Materials Arresting System (EMAS) material at Reading Regional Airport. A plane skidded off the runway and was arrested by EMAS. Empire Services cleaned up the material and DVC hauled it away to be disposed at Berks Transfer.

When a project needs multiple services, you can count on Empire Group to provide them. Our affiliate companies strive to ensure complete customer satisfaction with a passion for work, and an understanding and respect for those they serve. Contact us today to learn how our affiliate companies can make your project run smoothly!

The Top 3 Types of Leadership

Fri, 16 Jul 2021 20:58:44 GMT

The Top 3 Types of Leadership

Empire Group | July 16, 2021

In business, there are different styles of leadership. This may be intimidating to some since the word “leadership” has had a harshness attached to it in the past; we associated it with the military or politics. As the world changed over the past 20 years due to new technology and start-ups, a new view of leadership began to emerge. No longer is it seen as something only people at the “top” had acquired. Now, leadership can come from anyone, and in any industry. It means to motivate people to achieve a common goal. However, when it comes to a leadership style, one size does not fit all. Let’s take a look at the top three leadership styles.

1. Democratic – Also called participative, this style is based on democratic theory. It is not one person who solely reaches a decision but the team. A series of discussions occur to determine the best course of action or solution. In this process, the team feels valued and motivated to contrib ute. The main drawbacks to this style are that the process is time-consuming and there is a greater chance of miscommunication.

2. Delegative – This style has been called laissez-faire (leave alone in French) because the leader leaves everything in the hands of the employees. Tasks are simply delegated, and the guidance provided is minimal. This style works for teams that are highly motivated and prefer to work individually. Innovation and creativity are valued. Yet, disagreements arise, which can lead to poor morale.

3. Autocratic – Being in charge and commanding actions are hallmarks of this style. The leader (or authoritarian) provides guidance to those who need it and makes decisions in time-constrained situations. There is no feedback from the team, which severely reduces creativity and collaboration and can lead to employee rebellion.

No matter which leadership style you choose, it should be one you and your team find comfortable. The ultimate outcome of any leadership style is a highly efficient and productive staff. At Empire Group , we strive to motivate our employees to become effective leaders and to provide exceptional customer experiences.

Fireworks: From Bamboo Shoots to Bottle Rockets

Fri, 02 Jul 2021 19:00:53 GMT

Fireworks: From Bamboo Shoots to Bottle Rockets

Empire Group | July 2, 2021

It wouldn’t be the Fourth of July without fireworks. They light up the sky in bursts of colors accompanied by sounds of equal measure. However, they weren’t the first use of “explosives” to celebrate our independence from England. The firing of cannons from ships marked the adoption of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776, with a 13-cannon salute for the 13 colonies. Fireworks soon replaced the cannons. The first use of fireworks to celebrate the holiday occurred in Philadelphia on July 4, 1777. Fireworks have come a long way since then, with cities producing elaborate firework displays. However, the first fireworks weren’t created to celebrate a holiday.

According to legend, a Chinese alchemist in the second century B.C. made the first fireworks (or firecrackers) by mixing potassium nitrate, sulfur, and charcoal to produce gunpowder. Poured in hollow bamboo shoots, this mixture created a “bang” when thrown into a fire. The Chinese believed the fireworks would ward off evil spirits with their loud noises. When fireworks were introduced to Europe, people used them in military victories and celebrations. The early settlers brough them to America, where the practice continued. Today, Americans spend millions on fireworks each year. In fact, Americans spent 1 billion on fireworks in 2019, with the top three fireworks being mortars, mines and bottle rockets.

While fun to watch, fireworks must be handled carefully. It is vital to follow safety procedures when using legal fireworks to avoid injury, especially to the eyes and hands. Even sparklers can cause harm if not used properly. Did you know they can burn at 2,000 degrees? To help ensure a fun and safe celebration, The National Safety Council offers a number of safety tips to follow when using fireworks. However, it is best to attend a professional show. You’ll prevent injuries and see a unique fireworks display!

From the Empire Group family to yours, have a safe and happy 4 ^th of July!

Father's Day & The YMCA

Fri, 18 Jun 2021 19:50:13 GMT

Father's Day & The YMCA

Father’s Day is a holiday where father’s (and fatherhood) are celebrated, much like Mother’s Day honoring mothers. It’s not surprising that this holiday originated after Mother’s Day (1907) in 1910. Both holidays were inspired by a single parent who not only strived to be the best parent possible, but also helped their communities and country. Father’s Day began as a woman’s homage to her father. Sonora Smart Dodd wanted to honor her father, William Jackson Smart, a Civil War Veteran who raised six children by himself. Although she petitioned to have the holiday created, an event in 1908 was technically the first Father’s Day celebration. It wasn’t a dinner, but a one-time sermon given at West Virginia church. The sermon honored the men who were killed in the 1907 explosion at the Fairmount Coal Company mines .

The official start to Father’s Day began with Ms. Dodd. She wanted to honor male parents and went from business to business to drum up support for the holiday. She found success with the YMCA and the Spokane Ministerial Association in Spokane, Washington. She convinced the organizations to hold a celebration honoring fathers on a Sunday in June. She chose June 5 ^th , which was her father’s birthday. However, the Spokane Ministerial Association decided upon the third Sunday in June, as to not have Father’s Day so close to Mother’s Day. On June 19, 1910, the first Father’s Day celebration was held with Ms. Dodd delivering presents to handicapped men, boys from the YMCA giving roses to men, and ministers devoting homilies to fatherhood. The holiday had a long road to becoming nationally celebrated. In 1924, President Calvin Coolidge signed a resolution in favor of the celebration, but not making it a holiday. It wasn’t until 1972, when Congress passed an act officially making Father’s Day a national holiday. Since then, the holiday has become celebrated with barbeques and gifts.

We honor all the fathers of the Empire Group , and those of our affiliated companies. They have inspired us to do our best and to contribute to our communities in beneficial ways. We wish every father a Happy Father’s Day!

Let’s Celebrate National Safety Month!

Mon, 07 Jun 2021 16:13:01 GMT

Let’s Celebrate National Safety Month!

Empire Group | June 7, 2021

The focus on safety in the workplace has never been greater. Too many times we hear of accidents at a facility or job site, whether is it receiving a chemical burn from improper handling of chemicals or falling from a scaffold that wasn’t erected correctly. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics , 5,333 workers died in 2019, an increase of 2% from the previous year. However, the number of work-related injuries has decrease in the past 50 years from 10.9 cases per 100-workers in 1972 to 2.8 cases per 100-workers in 2019. Despite this good news, we can’t rest on our laurels. Safety awareness still needs to be a vital part of every company to reduce safety-related risks. This year, it gets a boost since it is the 25 ^th Anniversary of National Safety Month.

In 1996, the National Safety Council established June as National Safety Month. The goal is to decrease the number of work-related illnesses, injuries, and deaths in the workplace. June was chosen due to the high temperatures. There are several heat-related injuries that occur over the summer months, including heat stroke, dehydration, and sunburns. There is also in an increase in motor vehicle accidents due to construction work on roadways.

During National Safety Month, there are weekly topics to help spread safety awareness per the National Safety Council (NSC):

Week 1 - Prevent Incidents Before They Start: Identifying risks and taking proactive safety measures to reduce hazard exposure on important topics from ergonomics to chemical management is crucial to creating a safe workplace.

Week 2 - Address Ongoing COVID-19 Safety Concerns: As the pandemic continues, employers play an important role in expanding operations and returning remote workers to physical workspaces, building trust around vaccines, supporting mental health and so much more.

Week 3 - It’s Vital to Feel Safe on the Job: Being able to be one’s self at work without fear of retaliation is necessary for an inclusive safety culture. Leading organizations focus not only on physical safety, but psychological safety as well.

Week 4 - Advance Your Safety Journey: Safety is all about continuous improvement. Whether organizationally or individually, NSC can help provide guidance for your path forward.

At Empire Group , safety is our top priority. We have developed safe processes and systems that allow for a systematic, controlled, and detailed approach for every project of our affiliated companies. Contact us today to learn more!

Business Trends in 2021

Fri, 21 May 2021 21:07:26 GMT

Business Trends in 2021

Empire Group | May 21, 2021

If we have learned anything from the pandemic, it is that we can adapt. We have changed the way we travel, eat, shop and socialize. More importantly, the pandemic forced us to change the way we do business. COVID-19 has reshaped the business landscape, which has made companies look at their operations. As we slowly come out of the pandemic, new business trends have been created. Here are the top three emerging business trends.

1. Going Green – Although this has been a strong business trend over the past few years, there is now a greater focus on it. Offices that closed during quarantines have discovered the difference in energy costs. Some companies have decided to close their offices and have remote workers. The reduction in energy has prompted many companies to become more sustainable. There is a “ green recovery ” taking place where economic restoration is transitioning to a sustainable business model. Employees have saved money on transportation, clothing, and lunches (e.g., eating out). They have also developed sustainable habits, such as reducing the use of paper products and planting vegetable gardens.

2. Consumer Confidence Increases – There are many factors that have caused a surge in consumer confidence. These include fiscal relief from the government, more vaccinations and more businesses opening back up. There has been a communal effect in which consumers have been making an effort to shop at small businesses as well as eat at restaurants that were forced to close down.

3. More Leisure Travel and Less Work Travel – With tourism slowing coming back, people are traveling more to places that feature outdoor activities, such as hiking and fishing. They also want to visit relatives they haven’t seen in a year. However, traveling for work has declined because of the increase in Zoom meetings and virtual conferences as well as more employees working remotely.

As businesses continue to recover economically from the pandemic, consumers have become more optimistic about the future. They, too, have adapted in beneficial ways, which have saved them money and produced sustainable habits. It will be interesting to see if these trends continue into next year.

At Empire Group , we have adapted as many other businesses have during these challenging times. Our affiliate companies continue to create exceptional customer experiences, while following CDC guidelines. We look forward to the brighter days that are ahead of us.

Mother's Day: An Origin of Peace

Fri, 07 May 2021 20:37:06 GMT

Mother’s Day: A Day of Peace

Empire Group | May 7, 2021

The second Sunday in May is Mother’s Day, a day dedicated to pampering Mom. Many do not know that this American holiday was founded by Anna Jarvis in 1908. However, there was another Mother’s Day that was created in 1873. The first Mother’s Day was founded by Julia Ward Howe. It didn’t reach the popularity of the Mother’s Day founded by Anna Jarvis, though. It is interesting that two women fought to create a holiday designed to inspire peace.

Julia Ward Howe was an Abolitionist and a Suffragist. She began campaigning for a day recognizing mothers almost at the same time Anna Jarvis’s mother did in the 1800s. Ann Jarvis, Anna’s mother, saw the devastation caused by the Civil War. She was heavily involved in her community, first by caring for wounded soldiers (Union and Confederate) and then by trying to bring awareness to the unsanitary conditions of the poor with her “Mother’s Day Work Clubs.” She also created “Mother’s Friendship Day,” calling upon women to bring peace to the home front through reconciliation.

Like Ann, Julia saw the pain mothers endured during the war. In 1870, she wrote the “Mother’s Day Proclamation,” which called upon mothers to rise up and bring peace to the world. Later, in 1872, Julia held a “Mother’s Peace Day” on June 2 ^nd in New York City, which was an anti-war observance. The event was moved to Boston, where it continued for ten years. Both women sought to create a special day to bring peace to the world, especially for mothers. The intent was not lost since Anna Jarvis resumed the campaign to create a national Mother’s Day, not solely for peace, but to recognize the sacrifices mothers made for their families.

When Ann died, Anna held a public memorial in Grafton, West Virginia. It became known as Mother’s Day and was declared a state holiday in 1910. In 1914, President Woodrow Wilson signed the proclamation making Mother’s Day a national holiday. Today, Mother’s Day is celebrated around the world. It is marked with flowers, chocolates, and gifts to celebrate everything mothers do for us.

We honor all the mothers at Empire Group , and those of our affiliated companies. They have inspired us to do our best and to be a part of our communities. We wish every mother a Happy Mother’s Day!

A Brief Look at Earth Day 2021

Fri, 16 Apr 2021 21:08:06 GMT

Empire Group | April 16, 2021

A Brief Look at Earth Day 2021

Like last year, this Earth Day will be different. People will be doing their part to clean up America while adhering to CDC guidelines due the pandemic. Despite the limitations, we still feel impassioned to help our planet by doing whatever we can do reduce waste and protect our environment. It’s hard to believe that Earth Day was founded over 50 years ago. The idea for Earth Day took root with Wisconsin Senator Gaylord Nelson’s proposal for a teach-in in 1969 on air and water pollution. Yet, it was in New York where Earth Day began to bloom. Mayor John Lindsay felt so strongly about the idea that he closed 5 ^th Avenue to cars and delivered a speech about it. Support for this idea grew to create Earth Day in 1970. Also, that year, the Environmental Protection Agency was established by the Nixon Administration, along with the passing of the Clean Air Act.

Earth Day has become a worldwide celebration with nearly 200 countries taking part in activities designed to make Earth a healthier place. These activities include student discussions, plantings, and highway clean-ups. The need for these activities has never been greater due to climate change and the introduction of new chemical compounds to make consumer products. They have ignited today’s generation of young people to act, utilizing the internet and digital media to connect with people by sharing ideas and data. People can instantly see the areas that have benefited from previous Earth Day activities.

This year, we can safely take a step to get us closer to creating a healthier planet, whether it’s participating in a small clean-up or switching to eco-friendly packaging. At Empire Group, we deal with environmental issues daily since one of our subsidiaries, Elk Environmental Services , was founded to handle the hazardous waste encountered by another one of our companies, Empire Services . Even though this Earth Day will have some limitations, our passion for creating a healthy planet remains unchanged.

5 Unique Ways to Decorate Your Easter Eggs

Fri, 02 Apr 2021 19:23:18 GMT

Empire Group | April 2, 2021

5 Unique Ways to Decorate Your Easter Eggs

It’s Easter time and that means decorating Easter eggs! Did you ever wonder how the tradition of decorating Easter eggs got started? The egg is a symbol of rebirth, much like the warmer temperatures of spring bring forth new flowers, budding trees, and green lawns. The concept of decorating eggs has a religious origin since eggs were decorated to signal the end of the Christian Lenten season. This tradition dates to the 13 ^th century. The coloring and marking of eggs became more elaborate as the centuries worn on because they were given as gifts. Decorating Easter eggs is a time-honored tradition and there are numerous ways to decorate them. Here are some fun and unique ways to decorate your eggs!

1. Shaving Cream – Yes, shaving cream! By using this product, you can produce marbleized eggs. Put food coloring into shaving cream and mix. Roll the eggs into the mixture and let dry. Once dry, remove excess shaving cream. If you are going to eat the eggs, use whipped cream instead of shaving cream.

2. Washi Tape – If you want a checkered pattern on your eggs, use washi tape . Apply the tape to an egg in a basket weave pattern. Then dye the egg. Once dry, remove the tape to reveal box shapes.

3. Rice – By using rice, you can create a delicate design. Simply add food coloring to a bag of dry rice and shake. You’ll have a speckled pattern that will bring smiles!

4. Tissue Paper – If you are feeling very creative, you can create designs from tissue paper and glue them to the eggs. First, dye the eggs and let them dry. Then, create the design. And lastly, apply a thin coat of decoupage to the egg and apply the design.

5. String – Using string adds a “craft” look to your Easter eggs. Wrap the string around an egg and then place into the food coloring bath. Once dry, remove the string to reveal white lines.

These are just some of the unique ways to make your Easter eggs stand out this year. At Empire Group , we strive to find creative solutions to environmental, transportation, demolition, excavation, waste disposal and utility issues to save our customers time and money. Happy Easter!

Top Five Project Management Tools for 2021

Fri, 19 Mar 2021 19:09:45 GMT

Top Five Project

Management Tools for 2021

Empire Group | March 19, 2021

Spring cleaning often involves the re-organization of the home (i.e., the home office). However, the workplace shouldn’t be left out of the spring cleanout. One way to improve organization in the office is to get better control of project management. With the changes in technology and the business climate, companies must find ways to stand out among their competitors. One way to do this is to ensure projects are completed on time and on budget. Thus, project management is vital to a company’s success. Let’s take a quick look at the top five project management tools for this year.

1. Proofhub – This software simplifies the project management process by offering a number of tools in one place. The use of Gantt charts and Kanban boards provides the visualization needed to get an in-depth look at the nuts and bolts of a project.

2. Gantt Pro – If you need help in building project plans, this program gives you ready-made templates to make the process quick and easy.

3. Chanty – This platform is known for team collaboration. A task can be created from a message and assigned. Chanty is versatile in that it can be integrated into numerous apps, such as Trello and Dropbox.

4. Insightly – With a focus on sales and business growth, Insightly is ideal for building customer relationships. This CRM has a project management set that helps you manage leads and track sales cycles.

5. Teamdeck – For companies that use timesheets, Teamdeck provides accurate resource scheduling and time tracking. You can also generate reports to measure team productivity patterns and track billable hours.

There are more process management tools out there, each with their own unique features. When choosing the right project management tool, take a look at the program’s features. Each feature should help increase productivity, communication and collaboration. At Empire Group, we are always looking for new tools to help us maintain high operational levels and exceptional customer service. We invite you to visit our website to learn more about us!

It's Time for Spring Cleaning

Fri, 05 Mar 2021 21:53:54 GMT

It's Time for Spring Cleaning!

Empire Group | March 5, 2021

With spring finally upon us, it’s time to start thinking about spring cleaning. We know it is the time of year for giving our home, office and even vehicle a thorough cleaning, but where did this event originate? Some say it originated in North America, before the invention of the vacuum cleaner. Americans would hang rugs outside for airing and to beat the dust out of them. This occurred around March (spring), when temperatures warmed up to allow for windows to be opened and the dust to be blown out from springtime winds. Also, furnaces were turned off and the soot from them could be cleaned off walls.

Today, spring cleaning is a time for dusting, cleaning carpets, and throwing out broken or non-usable items. It’s also a time for tackling organization projects around the home and office. With remote working and learning, the need for organization has never been greater. Stores stock shelves with plastic storage containers, decorative baskets, organizers and bookcases. Better organization will help you become more productive; you’ll save time trying to look for things and have more time to focus on tasks.

For some, it means tackling even bigger projects, such as cleaning out the basement, garage or attic. For these jobs, it is beneficial to rent a dumpster. This way, all of the items to be thrown out are collected in one place in a convenient location. A dumpster rental company will deliver and pick up the dumpster and there are various sizes of containers. Dedicate a trashcan or area for items that will be recycled or donated. For electronics ( e-Waste ), you should check with your municipality to see if they will accept your devices. If they don’t accept them, you’ll need to take them to a recycling center. Check the electronic recycling collection programs near you. In Pennsylvania, you can locate one on the PA DEP Electronics Collections Program website.

No matter how deep into spring cleaning you get, it’s always rewarding to see a clean and organized home or office. If you need to rent a dumpster, Berks Transfer can help. An Empire Group company, Berks offers a number of dumpsters to meet your needs. Happy spring cleaning!

Understanding Corporate Social Responsibility

Fri, 19 Feb 2021 21:25:55 GMT

Understanding Corporate Responsibility

Empire Group | February 19, 2021

I n today’s business world, there are a lot of terms that are being thrown around, such as accountability and leadership, but they do not hold much value. However, a new term has been gaining attention over the past decade and has now become an important part of a company’s culture. It’s called corporate social responsibility (CSR). According to Investopedia , corporate social responsibility is a self-regulating business model that helps a company be socially responsible to itself, stakeholders and the public.

With the advent of social media, businesses are being held accountable for their practices. This accountability has developed into CSR initiatives. These initiatives are not meant to improve a company’s image, but to change how they operate to produce positive changes in society. They include making operations sustainable, donating money and products to charities, eliminating unethical practices, and volunteering for community events. These initiatives correlate to consumer loyalty and brand recognition. If a company is connected to a scandal, consumers will view the company negatively. An example of this is Goldman Sachs. They struggle to shed the disgrace of the 2008 financial crisis. Unlike Goldman Sachs, a company that has made strides with their CSR is Starbucks. Their coffee is 99% ethically sourced and have plans to reduce their environmental impact.

These companies are proof that CSR has a huge impact on consumer spending and trust. A study done by Cone Communications revealed that over 60% of Americans hope companies will drive social and environmental change moving forward. And nearly 90% will purchase a product because the company advocated for an issue they cared about. However, over 75% will refuse to purchase a company’s product upon learning it supported an issue contrary to their beliefs.

Corporate social responsibility has changed the way companies do business. At Empire Group, we strive to be socially responsible. We believe in helping our community in any way we can, including making donations to charities and businesses. To learn more about us , please visit our website.

A Brief History of Valentine's Day

Fri, 05 Feb 2021 21:19:40 GMT

A Brief History of Valentine's Day

Empire Group | February 5, 2021

As soon as February 1 ^st arrives, we start thinking about Valentine’s Day. Based on love, the holiday is symbolized through Cupid, red hearts, flowers and candy. Speaking of candy, Americans buy 58 million pounds of chocolate each year for Valentine’s Day. We know what to buy on this holiday of romance, but do we know why? Unfortunately, the origin of Valentine’s Day is a bit of a mystery. Many historians say the holiday can be traced back to two men, both named Valentine.

The first Valentine was a temple priest named Valentine (St. Valentine of Rome), who was killed by Emperor Claudius II in the third century. The Emperor decided that single men made better soldiers. Thus, he outlawed marriages. Valentine defied the decree and married young couples in secret, and was killed. The second Valentine, also in the third century, was a bishop in Terni (St. Valentine of Interamna). He was killed for trying to convert the Emperor to Christianity. So, what is the connection between these men and the Valentine’s Day we know today?

Since both men were martyrs and named Valentine, Pope Gelasius I named February 14 ^th as St. Valentine’s Day. However, it wasn’t really due to their martyrdom. The Pope created the holiday to replace the Roman festival Lupercalia, which focused on fertility. One of the rituals was of men racing through Rome whipping women with scraps of sacrificed goats. Another ritual was of a child forced to pair couples. The couples had to live together for a year, hopefully leading to marriage and the birth of a child. The focus was changed from fertility to love. Hence, St. Valentine became the patron saint of lovers.

As the centuries passed, the holiday spread to England and France. In these countries, February 14 ^th is the beginning of the mating season for birds. This is created the idea that this date would be known as a day of romance . The act of passing “love” notes soon became part of the holiday. Some say the poet Geoffrey Chaucer had something to do with this since he wrote of romance, and some of his writings were dedicated to St. Valentine. In addition to the love notes (cards), candy and flowers were added as they were considered little tokens of affection.

Whether you celebrate with cards, flowers or chocolates (or all three), the team at Empire Group wishes you a Happy Valentine’s Day! To learn more about us, visit our website .

The Top Five Leadership Styles

Fri, 15 Jan 2021 19:34:28 GMT

The Top Five Leadership Styles

Empire Group | January 15, 2021

The practice of leadership has greatly changed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Many employees are looking to their bosses for not only guidance on working remotely, but also for inspiration. Employees are not only trying to create a routine working from home, but also a routine for their kids who are learning online. And some in management have had to step into a leadership role. The level of productivity and morale is a result of the type of leadership employees receive. However, there is not just one type of leadership. There are several types. Let’s explore the top five.

1. Transformational – This type of leadership is based on the concept of transformation, seeing where things could be changed for the good of all. This leader looks for ways to improve and streamline processes by asking employees for suggestions. Employees feel inspired and empowered to speak up as well as to improve their work. There is another focus here: creativity. Employees are challenged to think outside of the box to increase sales or production.

2. Servant – As the name indicates, this leader serves others first then leads. This is done by putting the needs of others above his or her own. The focus is on elevating and nurturing employees; a manager or supervisor is not afraid to help others to get ahead in their careers. A trust is built and enjoyed by the entire company or organization, which increases productivity and morale.

3. Democratic – Another type of leadership that is derived from its name. The leader runs the company with input from his or her employees. As in a democracy, everyone works together and participates in the decision-making process. Creativity and innovation, as with transformational leadership, are encouraged. Also, this type of leadership gives lower-level employees more autonomy, which will benefit them in future positions.

4. Transactional – This is a give-and-take type of leadership. A manager gives an employee an incentive to achieve a goal, such as mastering a role or increasing revenue. The incentive can be positive (a bonus) or negative (a write up). Thus, the focus is on performance. How well an employee performs is a result of mentorship, communication and training.

5. Bureaucratic – Following the rules is the primary goal of this leader. In certain industries, rules and procedures must be strictly followed for safety and security reasons. The focus here is on hierarchy and the duties of each employee. Unlike the other types of leadership, there is little use for creativity, motivation or collaboration.

Leadership is an ever-changing practice. At the Empire Group , we strive to employ the latest leadership practices to create a positive work environment. As with our customers, we value our employees and find ways for them to achieve their goals.

Unique New Year's Traditions

Thu, 31 Dec 2020 15:15:47 GMT

Unique New Year's Eve Traditions

Empire Group | December 31, 2020

After the Christmas rush is over, we turn our attention to New Year’s Eve. We plan lavish parties, eat decadent meals and wait for the ball drop in Time Square. This year, however, will be different. We won’t have the big parties or go New York City to see the ball drop. Yet, we can still have a great meal, connect with family and friends and take part in a New Year’s Eve tradition. Let’s take a look at some of the unique traditions around the world.

Japan – Before midnight on New Year's Eve, the Japanese eat soba noodles. The dish, Toshikoshi soba, means “year-long noodle.” When the buckwheat noodle is cut, it symbolizes letting go of last year’s regrets.

Philippines – Filipinos serve 12 round fruits on New Year’s Eve. The round shape symbolizes coins, which represent prosperity and health for each month of the new year.

Spain – Grapes are eaten before midnight, but it must a certain amount. On New Year's Eve, Spaniards eat 12 grapes to bring them good luck in the coming year. If all 12 aren’t eaten, it’s thought to be bad luck.

Ireland – The Irish bang bread against the walls in their homes to chase away bad luck and spirits as well as to invite good luck in. It also ensures that the new year will be filled with an abundance of food (i.e., bread).

Brazil – Seven is a lucky number during the holidays in Brazil, especially on New Year’s Eve. Brazilians eat seven pomegranate seeds to keep the purse full. They also eat seven grapes to ensure abundance in all areas of life.

Denmark – Plates are broken on friends and family’s doorsteps. The more shards found means the well liked you will be in the new year.

New York, NY – Aside from the usual traditions in the U.S., upstate New York has one that is very sweet. During the holidays, people purchase a tiny peppermint pig that comes with its own hammer. A person uses the hammer to break off a piece to eat, which symbolizes good luck in the new year.

No matter where you live or the traditions you partake in, the universal wish is for a bright and happy New Year. We certainly need next year to be much happier and healthier. From all of us at the Empire Group , we wish everyone a Happy New Year filled with good health and prosperity!

Fri, 18 Dec 2020 14:23:25 GMT

Berks Transfer Teams Up with Miller-Keystone Blood Center

Empire Group | December 18, 2020

A ccording to the American Red Cross , a single blood donation can save three lives. And every two seconds, a person in the United States needs blood. However, due to COVID-19, many people are afraid to give blood. This is why it is even more important now to donate blood. Safety is the top priority at every blood center. They follow CDC guidelines to protect donors and employees from the virus as well as require appointments. This holds true for Miller-Keystone Blood Center (Miller-Keystone) in Reading, PA. Miller-Keystone has been supporting the greater Reading area for nearly 50 years. The blood bank is the sole provider for 29 hospitals in Eastern Pennsylvania and Western New Jersey. It is also a member of American’s Blood Centers, Advancing Transfusion and Cellular Therapies Worldwide, and Association of Recruitment Professionals. The Empire Group is proud to announce that Berks Transfer, a subsidiary of the group, has teamed up with Miller-Keystone for a special Adopt-A-Day blood drive.

The Adopt-A-Day blood drive makes it easy for organizations to donate by hosting a blood drive at one of Miller-Keystone’s Donor Centers. The center is closed to only the employees of the company hosting the event. This allows for flexibility as employees don’t have to worry about running to a blood center for their appointment. The Adopt-A-Day is also open to friends and family of employees. Berks Transfer is sponsoring this event for its employees as well as those of the entire Empire Group, which includes Elk Environmental Services, Empire Services, DVUC and DVC. The event is scheduled for February 4 ^th and 5 ^th and will be held at the Miller-Keystone Blood Center, 2745A Leiscz’s Bridge Road in Reading. It is important to note that Miller-Keystone has changed its donor guidelines . Please be sure to review the guidelines to see if you are eligible to donate. Contact Miller-Keystone today to set up your own Adopt-A-Day event.

The Empire Group is committed to serving our local communities, such as the Adopt-A-Day program and the donation of face masks to Reading Hospital/Tower Health. We believe in helping our neighbors, especially during this challenging time. This same can be said for our commitment to customer satisfaction. To learn more about us, please visit our website .

Fri, 04 Dec 2020 22:03:29 GMT

Top Three Business Trends for 2021

Empire Services | Dec. 04, 2020

As we wrap up this year, Empire Group has seen and felt the affect COVID-19 has had on area businesses. As a business in Berks County, we understand the impact and strive to find ways to be a positive influence in our community. While this year has been challenging, we look forward to 2021 and to improving our business practices. In moving forward, we must also take a look at business trends – past and future.

The business trends of this year were shaped around technology, with the increase of virtual events and meetings. Ordering products and food online also increased as many companies created apps to make the process easier and faster. Amazon dominates the e-commerce arena and has also become a social norm. The term “5G” became a new buzz word. This new global wireless network connects everyone and machines at fast speeds. It has certainly been welcomed now that everyone is online through their devices, with cell phones being the most utilized. Other trends included going “green,” autonomous vehicles and artificial intelligence.

What’s on the Horizon for 2021?

Technology will still play a major role in our lives, both in and out of the workplace. The top business trends for 2021 include:

1. Remote Work: If you have been working from home over the last six months, you can count on this to continue into next year. Many companies have developed systems to help workers connect to co-workers and servers. It has also been proven that working from home increases productivity. According to FreelancingHacks.com , working from home increases work performance by 13%. Working from home also provides flexibility for many workers, especially around doctor’s appointments and childcare issues.

2. Going Green : Although this was one of last year’s business trends, it still is applicable to next year. Aside from consumers going “green” via vegetarian diets and organic products, companies are also increasing their green efforts to save energy. Some of this can be done through using sustainable materials, installing solar panels and reducing their carbon footprint.

3. Profitability: Before COVID-19, businesses were focused on growth. Due to the changes that have occurred in the business realm, many companies took a look at their infrastructure, seeing where they could work more efficiently and save money. Next year, the focus will shift to profitability to make up for the losses in 2020.

If we have learned anything this year, it is the fact that anything can change in an instant (i.e., business trends). We have been forced to re-evaluate our business practices to help keep everyone safe and healthy. While we look ahead to 2021, we should not forget what worked and what didn’t work in 2020. The business trends above are just a few of the many that will guide businesses towards success.

At Empire, we want our customers to know that we are here to help. We are open and will continue to provide our customers with an exceptional customer experience. We follow CDC guidelines and take every precaution to help ensure the safety of our employees and customers.

Established in 1955, Empire Group is ready to serve all your demolition, excavation, emergency response, environmental remediation, transport and municipal waste disposal needs. The Empire Group consists of five subsidiary companies: Elk Environmental Services, Empire Services, Berks Transfer, Delaware Valley Contractors and Delaware Valley Utility Contractors.

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A Look Back at 2025

Empire Services

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Breakfast with Santa

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Creating Lasting Memories

Giving Thanks for a Year of Teamwork and Triumph at Empire Group

Celebrating Our Team Through Employee Appreciation Events

Supporting Our Community Together

Showcasing Our Unique Projects and Services

A Heartfelt Thank You

What's New This Fall at Empire Group

Empire Group Timeline Is Almost Done

﻿ Happy Retirement Todd!

﻿ A Successful Empire Group Golf Classic

﻿ The Excavation Of a New Elevator Pit

Transporting Equipment for a Local Excavation Company

Putting Safety First: The Top OSHA Workplace Violations of 2025

A Continued Commitment to Safety

Empire Group Hosts 30th Annual Golf Classic

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Tournament Results

A Big Thank You

Wrapping Up an Exciting Summer

Dismantling a Giant Shark Tank

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﻿ Handling Trash Control at The Berks County Fair

﻿ A National Night Out to Remember

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National Preparedness Month: Is Your Business Ready for the Next Big Storm?

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Big Trucks & Big Smiles

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A Big Snowstorm

A Custom Pump House

Installing an Electrical Service for New Construction

Delaware Valley Contractors (DVC)

The 30th Annual Empire Group Golf Classic

Happy Retirement, Todd! (Empire Services)

Russ Oswalt Farewell (DVC)

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Delaware Valley Utility Contractors (DVUC)

Happy Retirement Todd!

A Successful Empire Group Golf Classic

The Excavation Of a New Elevator Pit

A Thorough Cleaning Before Decommissioning

Handling Trash Control at The Berks County Fair

A National Night Out to Remember

Family Fun Day at Knoebels