Fall / Winter 1978

Soule Steel News

*"WE ARE AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER"*

**VOLUME 7 — FALL ISSUE 1978 — NUMBER 3**

CORPORATE HEADQUARTERS MOVES TO WALNUT CREEK

After 67 years in San Francisco - 54 of them at the Army Street location - Soule's Corporate Headquarters has been transfered to the Lowell Berry Building, 1910 Olympic Boulevard - Suite 151, Walnut Creek, California.

As with any family move from a comfortable old home to a sparkling new one, there is nostalgia mixed with excitement. Surely Lee, Stan and Howard Soule felt both emotions, as they left the familiar offices still containing the huge desk where their late father, Edward L. Soule, Sr., directed early operations. "It's hard to leave San Francisco after all these years," admitted Stan, "but we feel that Walnut Creek and the whole Contra Costa area offer a better business, working and living environment than does San Francisco." Walnut Creek is not unfamiliar to the Soule's, however, since their father purchased 30 acres in the early 20's, and they spent most summers there.

The official opening was held on August 14. One of the distinguished guests was Lowell Berry, for whom the building was named. Dignitaries, special guests, and old friends began arriving at 11:00 a.m. A warm welcome awaited each visitor, starting with the attendants assisting with parking, to the charming hostesses directing guests to an informal receiving line of company officers.

Everyone took advantage of the invitation to view the premises, enjoying the rare opportunity to wander through the modern, glass-enclosed offices of the Chairman and the President, or sit at the long conference table, or greet old acquaintances who filled the area to overflowing.

Ceremonies began with a cordial welcome by Emcee Howard Soule, who also made appropriate introductions. Mayor Margaret W. Kovar extended the City's official welcome, followed by Alice Applegate, President of the Chamber of Commerce, who made an interesting comparison of Soule's history and future with that of the City. Both the Chairman of the Board Lee Soule and the President Stanley Soule formally thanked those in attendance.

*Photo: Corporate offices are located on the ground floor of the beautiful Lowell Berry Building.*

*Photo: Pictured on opening day with the portrait of their father, Founder Edward Lee Soule, Sr., are (l to r) Howard Soule, Stanley Soule, and Edward Lee Soule, Jr.*

Of course no opening is complete until the ribbon-cutting, so Lee, Stan and Howard neatly took care of that, concluding the formalities. A delicious buffet luncheon followed.

In the hub-bub of the large group busily milling around, the tone of the offices was temporarily obscured. However, on a regular workday, the first impression is the softly-lit subdued atmosphere. Tastefully decorated with carpeting, walnut desks and coordinated furnishings, the rooms have touches of "Soule orange" for bright accents.

Personnel at this location are:

- Lee Soule — Chairman of the Board - Stan Soule — President - Howard Soule — Vice President-Administration & Secretary - Don Watkins — Vice President-Finance & Treasurer - Lowell Carstensen — Director of Corporate Planning - Bob Rackerby — Planner - Carol Marty — Executive Secretary to Lee Soule - Jeanne Pottle — Executive Secretary to Stan Soule - Dianne Davis — Executive Secretary to Howard Soule, Don Watkins & Lowell Carstensen - Kathe Smith Freer — Executive Secretary-Employee Relations

The Soule's feel this move is very significant, and the start of a new chapter in the company's history.

PAGE 2 — SOULE' STEEL NEWS — FALL ISSUE

WELCOME TO WALNUT CREEK!

*Photo: Mayor Margaret "Peg" Kovar*

*Photo: Lee, Stan and Howard skillfully wield the scissors to cut the ribbon and "officially" open the new headquarters.*

*Photo: Chamber of Commerce President Alice Applegate*

*Photo: Another memorable opening, 54 years ago at Army Street in San Francisco. Seated third from left is Niles O. Millar, former Secretary-Treasurer of the company, now retired, who was also a guest at the Walnut Creek opening. (Pictured in inset with Carol Marty.)*

*Photo: The opening party crowd.*

*Photo: The quiet workday atmosphere.*

FALL ISSUE — SOULE' STEEL NEWS — PAGE 3

ORGANIZATION MOVES

*Photo: Robert Gebauer*

*Photo: William Phillips*

*Photo: Verne Freer*

*Photo: James Soule*

*Photo: Robert Acree*

*Photo: Hollis Palmer*

On August 15, President Stanley Soule announced the selection of Robert J. Gebauer as Division Manager - Reinforcing. For an interim period, Bob will continue to perform the duties of District Manager-Carson.

Bob started with the company as an estimator in 1953, later transfering to sales. In 1963 he was named District Manager-Fresno, and when the Sacramento Reinforcing operation was started, he was placed in charge of that as well.

A native of Dearborn, Michigan, he served in the U.S. Navy. Bob and his wife Barbara have five daughters.

Also on August 15, General Manager-Domestic Operations Dick Marsellos announced the promotion of William Phillips to General Sales Manager with responsibility for Dealer Sales, Direct Sales and Major Accounts, Temp-Con Sales and Dealer Development.

Bill was formerly Soule's National Accounts Manager and prior to coming with Soule had extensive industry experience.

Bill is a sports enthusiast, having played football and rugby while attending UCLA, and is now a golfer. He has two sons, Chris and Scott.

Effective October 1, Verne Freer became Engineering Systems Manager, reporting to Dick Marsellos. His new responsibilities will include the development and implementation of systems for structural engineering, order engineering and product development. He will also continue with his responsibilities as Product Development Manager.

Verne has been with the company over twelve years, starting as a detailer, and later becoming a draftsman, then design engineer.

By the time we go to press, Verne will have given up his bachelor status with his marriage to Kathe Smith, Soule's vivacious and efficient Employee Relations Secretary.

Division Manager Bob Gebauer announced the promotion of James R. Soule to District Manager-Newark Reinforcing, effective October 2. Jim's responsibilities will include Soule rebar sales, estimating, detailing, fabrication and placing in the Newark District.

Jim has been with the company 8 years, starting as a Field Ironworker, and subsequently working in Carson, Steel Building Sales, San Diego, and Employee Relations - Carson. Jim attended the University of Nevada, and also served for 6 years in the California Air National Guard.

He and his wife Cathryn have three children: Stephen, Amy, and Scott.

Robert Acree was promoted to Purchasing Manager of the Buildings Division-Los Angeles on August 7, reporting to Jack Dressen. He has been serving the Division in various production planning capacities since 1947.

At the same time, Hollis Palmer was named Production Planning Control Supervisor, also reporting to Jack Dressen.

Hollis joined Soule as a shop helper in 1950, and has held various positions in manufacturing until 1969 when he was appointed Production Foreman, the position held prior to this promotion.

*Photo: Allen Dran*

*Photo: Roseanna Cordova*

Succeeding Hollis as Production Foreman in the L.A. plant is his former assistant, Allen Dran.

Roseanna "Rose" Cordova, formerly Receiving Clerk, has been promoted to Shipping and Receiving Supervisor, Steel Buildings-Los Angeles.

Wally Duniec has transfered from Santa Ana Reinforcing to the Fresno District where he will continue his work as Detailer.

After 13½ years of service, Janet Bremer opted for early retirement in August. She was originally employed at the Mill as Secretary, later transfering to the Purchasing Department. She subsequently was promoted to Purchasing Secretary/Jr. Buyer.

Co-workers gave a luncheon in her honor, showing their appreciation with gifts and good wishes.

Janet plans an extended vacation in her native England. Upon her return, she looks forward to spending new-found free time with her grandchildren.

*Photo: Purchasing Agent Jim Peek was among those who honored his long-time assistant Janet Bremer on her retirement.*

PAGE 4 — SOULE' STEEL NEWS — FALL ISSUE

SERVICE AWARDS

Charles Briones was hired by Soule in 1958 to help establish its mini-mill in Carson. Initially, he worked in San Francisco then transfered to the Steel Mill, serving as a melter. Charles helped tap the first heats made from the mill, and continues to oversee one of the four shifts operating in the Melt Shop. In addition to his 20 years of service, Charles has an outstanding record of perfect attendance for 8 years, and no industrial accidents.

He is a native Californian. Charles and his wife Katie have a married daughter and one grandchild.

*Photo: Charles Briones receives his service pin from Mill Manager Sandy Soule as Superintendent John Englert looks on.*

Jo Davis (RF-Fresno) received her 15-year pin on September 20. (Ed. Note: Since Jo is our Associate Editor in Fresno and a very modest lady, we didn't receive any photo or details. We know she is a valued employee, and certainly an asset to the staff of SOULE' NEWS, and we didn't want this service milestone to go by unnoticed.)

WELCOME NEWCOMERS

*Photo: Marta Chin — Sr. Clk-Typist, Marketing Svcs-SB,LA*

*Photo: Dale Cluse — Computer Svcs Mgr., SB,LA*

*Photo: Dianne Davis — Exec. Secty-Adm., Walnut Creek*

*Photo: Lorraine Gorman — Engr. Trainee, RF, Sacramento*

*Photo: William F. Gorman, Jr. — Detailer/Draftsman, SB, LA*

*Photo: Sabrina Heredon — Jr. Clk-Typist, Marketing Svcs-SB,LA*

*Photo: Catherine Jiran — Data Entry Clerk, Data Proc.- Acctg, Carson*

*Photo: Lee Keller — Order Engrg. Mgr., SB,LA*

*Photo: David Kumnick — Sales Svc Supvr, SB, LA*

*Photo: Robert Lankin — Estimator, SB, LA*

*Photo: Joanne LeDue — Jr. Detailer, SB, LA*

*Photo: Richard Martinez — Shop Foreman, RF, Sacramento*

*Photo: Jeanne Pottle — Exec. Secty - Adm., Walnut Creek*

*Photo: Terri Triplett — Sr. Clk-Typist, Sales Svc. SB, LA*

PRIZE WINNER

*Photo: Rick Alexander is pictured (center) with the plaque and $50.00 Savings Bond he received for winning the Product Naming Contest. "MINI-MASTER" was selected for the new Soule Mini-Storage Buildings. Also pictured (l to r) Stan Soule, George Ford, Dick Marsellos and George Woods.*

FALL ISSUE — SOULE' STEEL NEWS — PAGE 5

STEELING ATTENTION

LIFE GOES TO FAMILY REUNIONS--SO DO WE!

The just-published "comeback" issue of LIFE magazine featured a number of family reunions. Not to be outdone, SOULE' NEWS has many family reunions to report also: The Hugh Bates Family (RF-SLC) took camper and boat to Lake Powell with all the comforts of home to enjoy fishing, waterskiing. They also traveled to Carston, Canada, for the annual Family Reunion. Interestingly, Hugh is President of the Family Association...Bruce Culbertson (RF-SLC) vacationed in Glacier National Park, Calgary, Banff, and to visit relatives in Seattle...Pat Cutrone (Acctg-Carson) attended a family reunion of 150 in Ohio...Carol Ebdrup (RF-Carson) enjoyed a two-week stay with relatives in South Dakota where she attended a high school reunion...Barbara and Bob Lee (RF-Carson) motored to Washington State via Denver, visiting relatives and camping and fishing along the way. Alice and Jack Morgan (Acctg-Carson) went to Montana to visit their daughter and grandchildren...Bob Overman (Est.-SLC) spent a week playing host to his son's family at Flaming Gorge National Rec. Area in Montana. This month he will visit relatives in the Midwest...The David Taylors (RF-SLC) returned to their former home in Sacramento, with a side trip to Riverside to visit grandparents. While in southern California, dropped in the Carson Office to meet the people...Karen Wilkerson (RF-Carson) spent a week in Grand Junction, Colorado, with her sister...Nice to report this kind of news!

SUGAR 'N SPICE: Kelly Ann Spangler, 7 lbs. 9 ozs., arrived August 31 to sweeten the lives of Glenn and Ella Spangler (RF-SLC)...Natalie Gene Nolt, 7 lbs. 6 ozs., born on August 23, spiced up Grandma May Bollong's (Acctg-RF Carson) vacation in San Diego. Natalie is the daughter of Jennifer and Thomas Nolt.

The many friends who have inquired will be pleased to know that Craig Carpenter, retired Vice President of Soule, is recuperating nicely at home after his recent surgery. Knowing the indefatigable CCC, a little old thing like surgery wouldn't DARE slow him down for long!

HERE COME THE BRIDES: Suresh Ramsinghani (RF-Carson) traveled all the way to New Delhi, India, to claim Nilam as his bride... The new Mr. and Mrs. Hayden -- Alan and Karen -- (Credit-Carson) were married on June 22, and honeymooned in the Sequoias.

*Photo: As everyone knows, W.C. Fields always "hated kids." It was a surprise, then, to see him dolled up in full regalia to escort Baby Snooks to the Clam Dig and party given by Islam Temple of the Shrine at Morro Bay recently. (Does anyone see a slight resemblance to Jean and Ken Hopper (RF-Newark) in the picture?)*

*Photo: A BIG LETDOWN for Hugh Bates (RF-SLC), literally, when the wooden stairs outside the trailer collapsed. Although Hugh was not injured, it was decided said steps should be replaced. Shop Foreman Gene Luna is pictured at work on the pre-cast concrete replacements.*

SOFTBALL CHAMPS: Soule Fresno Ironworkers have been playing softball this summer - and very well, too! Benny Wilkes, Jr., Terry Burrious, Merle Ward, and Jimmy Ely all play on THE PIRATES, a team in the Fresno City League. At a banquet honoring the League on September 16, the team was awarded the Fresno City Softball League "Class A" Championship Trophy for 1978. In addition, two of our ironworkers were awarded individual trophies: Benny Wilkes, Jr. for Most Valuable Player, and Terry Burrious for Most Improved Player...

AND AWAY WE GO! On land, sea, or in the air, this HAD to be the "traveling-est" year ever for Soule employees: Gladys Allen (RF-Carson) had a very enjoyable tour of Mexico City, Guadalajara and Puerto Vallarta. Ole! June Duplice (RF-Carson) has many stories to tell about her European trip...John and Ann Gillanders (Acctg-Carson) had a very exciting vacation in Argentina. In addition to sightseeing, they attended the World Cup Soccer Games in Buenos Aires...Jack and Ruth Hesketh (Acctg-Carson) on an extensive tour of the Hawaiian Islands...Elsie Kopfmann visited London, Paris, Florence and arrived in Rome at the sad but historic time of Pope John Paul I's funeral...Steve Kosco (RF-Carson) flew to Ohio and Florida...Arnetta and Orville Leas (Shipper-Mill) had a most relaxing time on the SUN VIKING to Puerto Plata, San Juan and St. Thomas...Brenda and Varnoy Lee (Charger-Mill) flew to Bermuda Islands and St. George, Jamaica for two exciting weeks...Anne and Fred Obertean (Acctg-Mill) saw London and then on to Scotland to see the beautiful Loch Ness, Loch Lomond and the Trossachs. Enjoyed the "Tattoo" in Edinburgh Castle...Monna Pennington (RF-Carson) chose the place most of us dream of as the ultimate vacation: Tahiti...Sophie Pilchard (Acctg-Carson) looking forward to leaving shortly for London, where she will meet her son who is employed in Saudi Arabia... The Jerry Silva Family still getting acquainted with the Intermountain Area- Utah and Colorado- before moving into a new home in Sandy, Utah.

PAGE 6 — SOULE' STEEL NEWS — FALL ISSUE

All these ingredients were present in good supply at the company outings this summer. Willard Cay, Utah, was the setting for the Salt Lake City picnic July 22 and 23. A campsite was rented for the night and the group moved in with campers, tents, boats, etc... Waterskiing, boating, fishing and Frisbee were enjoyed by office, shop and field personnel. (Sorry no pictures.)

135 people gathered at Furman Park, Downey, CA., on August 26 for the Southern California Picnic. Volleyball, children's games, softball (Carson beat L.A. Plant 19 - 2), and tennis developed hefty appetites for the delicious fried chicken, salads, rolls, watermelon, and Popsicles.

The Committee of Jerry Randolph, Vonnie Bannon, Ruth Hesketh and Barbara Burnham did an outstanding job; but they also want to thank Paul Mason, Dot Corrao, Ely Trinidad, Manny Regalado, Terri Olesh, Lee Stockon and Dick Marsellos for helping them make this such a successful event.

'P' stands

*Photo: Southern California Swingers*

*Photo: Just follow your nose*

*Photo: Hang in there!*

*Photo: Chow time*

*Photo: In the sack*

FALL ISSUE — SOULE' STEEL NEWS — PAGE 7

for picnics!

. . . and picnics stand for food, fun, and fellowship

The So-So-Crats' 5th Annual Picnic was held in Orange Park, South San Francisco on September 16. The committee: Ed Castillo, Verne Freer and Lea Ruzek served up similar treats, adding hamburgers, hot dogs, chips and other picnic goodies to their menu; and numerous adult games and prizes to the activities.

The Committee wants to thank their invited guests Pam Castillo for helping with the cooking, and Dee Ruzek for her time and talent taking photos. (ED.-NOTE: My thanks also to Mrs. Ruzek. All of the northern California pictures are her work.)

*Photo: Northern California Swinger*

*Photo: And in the center ring...*

*Photo: Just about unstrung*

*Photo: More sack time*

*Photo: Egg on your face!*

*Photo: A good group*

PAGE 8 — SOULE' STEEL NEWS — FALL ISSUE

DEALER DEVELOPMENT

Throughout 1978, Dealer Development Seminars are being held covering subjects as to basic engineering, such as standard and special struture loading conditions; bracing systems; information on erection drawings and the difference in the respective framing systems. Included are explanations of product pricing policies, pricing of basic buildings, and component packages for each line of buildings.

Other subjects covered are: estimating for various types of buildings, writing up and the use of various order forms.

Advertising and sales promotion programs are explained in these seminars, as to Soule direct mail programs; Soule trade publication and newspaper advertising; and other literature and sales aids.

Seminars are conducted by Gene Fuller, with Lee Stockon training the advertising portions.

*Photo: MY, MY, AREN'T WE FANCY! Another needed improvement was completed with the planning and work of management and detailers in Salt Lake City. The Detailing Room was petitioned off into four work areas. Bruce Culbertson is shown in the newly decorated area.*

PUBLIC RELATIONS IN ACTION

(This column is presented to give recognition to employees who contribute effort to outside activities - and in so doing enrich Soule's public relations.)

*Photo: Karen Drebing*

Karen Drebing (RF-Fresno) is President-elect of Fresno Chapter 108 of the National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC). Karen attended the Annual Convention in Boston September 13 - 17. Approximately 1250 delegates and alternates were in attendance from a membership of 7,000 representing 48 states and 3 Canadian provinces.

Senator Ted Kennedy was the keynote speaker at the banquet. Representatives also had two days of sightseeing, and Karen was thrilled to see this historic area.

Ralph Garcia (Corp. Controller-SF) received commendation from the Board of Directors of the Institute of Internal Auditors for outstanding performance as Chairman of the Special Events Committee for the 37th International Conference of The Institute. In a letter to Soule, International Secretary Robert L. Jones said in part, "Ralph and his associates performed their tasks so well that the attendance in San Francisco exceeded all previous records. The participants' evaluations indicated they benefited greatly from the program. Organizing a conference for 1,417 is no small task. Ralph not only performed well as Chairman, but gave an extra measure of himself, which made our 37th Annual Conference a memorable event. The Institute is indebted to Ralph for his many services."

The UNITED WAY is us. ALL of us.

*Photo: United Way*

TRADE SHOW

Soule was one of over 550 companies represented at the Western Plant Engineering Show at the Anaheim Convention Center, Anaheim, CA.

The Show/Conference was a complete success, having a door count of over 15,000.

Bob Weyand, Soule National Sales Accounts Manager, indicated he was very pleased as to the quality and quantity of leads received from participating.

*Photo: Bob Weyand (L) and Otis Gravem manning the 10' Module Soule booth at the 1978 Western Plant Engineering Show and Conference.*

IN MEMORIAM

It is with regret that we report the following deaths:

SAM HODES, who worked in the RF Engineering Detailing Department from December 1, 1919 until his retirement in 1956.

BYRON KILLILEA, retired from the Accounting Department, SF, in 1974 after 27 years of service.

Deepest condolences to the families of these former co-workers.

FALL ISSUE 1978 — SOULE' NEWS

Published Quarterly by the SOULE' STEEL COMPANY, 1910 Olympic Boulevard, Walnut Creek, California

Betty Trailer, Editor

Associate Editors:

- Niles O. Millar — Alumi - Furman Davis — Phoenix - Barbara Burnham, John Rogachenko — Carson - Nanci Blythe — Sacramento - Jo Davis — Fresno - Margery Van Dusen — Salt Lake City - Terri Olesh — Los Angeles - Esther Longnecker — San Diego - Janet Neubert — Newark - Dianne Davis, Howard S. Soule — Walnut Creek