Steamatic Catastrophe Management Responds to NE Franchises for Restoration After Hurricane Irene

Oct 11, 2011 Demonstrating a team spirit among franchise owners that is dominant throughout Steamatic, Inc.’s franchise system, Steamatic Catastrophe Management (SCM) recently responded to calls for help from owners in New York, New Jersey, Virginia and Connecticut so they could serve their customers just after Hurricane Irene hit in August. SCM is a company owned by Steamatic’s franchise owners who work together on large restorations or commercial jobs when the number of claims and restorations requires services exceeding the physical and financial capabilities of other Steamatic franchisees. SCM is managed by Bill Eaton, who also serves as president of Steamatic of ArkLaTex based in Shreveport/Bossier City. “Our team followed Hurricane Irene’s path just after it hit North Carolina and followed it up the east coast,” says Eaton. “Using New York state as our base, we helped customers of Steamatic franchises in New York, New Jersey, Virginia and Connecticut clean up the damage in basements that flooded. We removed all damaged materials that were affected, including sheetrock, insulation and contents, then dried and sanitized all remaining structure and contents.” Members of the team included Vincent Farricielli of Steamatic of Central Connecticut, Kevin Gilboy of Steamatic of Northern Virginia, Frank Guglielmo of Steamatic of South Jersey, and Okalani Taufahema of Steamatic of San Diego. “Just after we posted the need for franchises to help on Steamatic’s website, Okalani Taufahema responded to our call,” says Eaton. “Without fanfare or the need for recognition, he drove his truck across the United States to help our fellow owners in the northeast. Without any hesitation, I can truly say that Steamatic is more than just another company; it’s a group of people who really care about each other and demonsrate that loyalty each and every time.” “I cannot add anything to what Bill said other than to completely agree with him regarding the kind of commitment our franchisees have to one another,” says Bill Sims, president of Steamatic, Inc. “When we formed the SCM several years ago, we knew we were doing the right thing in terms of creating a way to help fellow owners serve customers in their local areas. Whether they are responding to damage caused by a hurricane, tornado or some other tragedy, their attitude is unselfish and absolutely amazing. I am proud to work with each and every one of our owners.”