PENNSYLVANIA ONE CALL SYSTEM IS FREE TO HBAA MEMBERS

     State law requires anyone performing excavation to notify the owners of alll underground utilities, piplines and cables of the proposed work area at least three working days before the start of excavation.  Don�t forget the PA ONE-CALL SYSTEM.  They help prevent the accidental digging into dangerous lines.  When you call the 1-800-242-1776 (PA1CALL) they notify the underground facilities which in turn will mark their lines.

      As members of the HBAA you receive this service for free.  If you ever get a bill from PA1CALL, send it to us at HBAA 1397 Eisenhower Blvd.  Johnstown, PA 15904.  Even if you have already paid the bill, send us a copy of the bill and proof of payment to us.  You get this service for FREE.

2005 DUES LOBBYING TAX DEDUCTION

     In 1993, the U.S. Congress enacted the Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act that contained provisions affecting trade associations.  The Act provided that taxpayers will no longer be able to deduct from their federal income taxes any portion of the association dues attributable to that association�s lobbying activities as an ordinary and necessary cost of doing business.  Because we fall under these guidelines, we are required to notify our members of the portion of your dues that are not deductible based upon these calculations.  

     Dues payments to the Home Builders Association of the Alleghenies are not deductible as charitable contributions for federal income tax purposes.  However, dues payments may be deductible as ordinary and necessary business expense, subject to an exclusion for lobbying activity.  Because a portion of your dues is used for lobbying by National Association of Home Builders and the Pennsylvania Builders Association 27.33% of the total dues, or $76.52 is not deductible for income tax purposes. 

Making Introductions in the Wrong Order - Always present a man to a woman and introduce the younger person to the older one.

Showing Up Late for an Important Date - Be on time.  Showing up late is disrespectful of other people�s time.

Resting Elbows on the Table - When between courses (if dishes are cleared) or after eating is the only acceptable time to put your elbows on the table during a meal.

Waving the White Flag: Improper Napkin Use - As soon as you sit down place your napkin on your lap.  When finished place it to the left of your plate.

Explaining Too Much When Excusing Yourself - You don�t need to give a lengthy explanation about where you�re going. Quietly say, �Excuse Me�

Drink to Yourself - If someone toast you, don�t take a drink.  You don�t need to clink glasses, raise your glass to toast.

Making Remarks That Embarrass or Offend Others - Avoid topics such as: death, surgery, illness, religion, politics, salaries, gossip and sex. Good topics are: current events, cultural events, your industry, good news about mutual friends, hobbies, sports, or food.

Cutting in on Conversations - Wait for a pause in the conversation.

Speaking Loudly - It is not the loudest person that impresses, it is the quiet, confident and good mannered person that impresses. Avoid using cell phones in restaurants, business meetings, classrooms, church, or where you should not be speaking loudly.

Flubbing a Phone Call - Always begin by introducing yourself and your company (if applicable). 

From :Etiquette For Dummies, by Sue Fox,

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