April 2012Volume 20 Number 4

Look for the MBA Logo pg 11 / Spike Party and Incentive Announcements pg. 12

Working on Commitees Leads to New Business pg. 2 / Housing Design: Changes for Good? pg 4

Rebuilding Together South Sound’s 11th annual

Rebuilding Day is right around the corner!

The big day is April 28th this year and skilled volunteers, especially

roofers and material donations are needed. We’re helping another 30 homeowners on Rebuilding Day this year! Thank you to those of you who are already involved. We couldn’t provide these critical services without you. Email or call Nate to get involved. 253-238-0977

Year-Round: Rebuilding Together South Sound is now doing the majority of its work around the year, outside of the major Rebuilding Day event. They’re working to address the needs in the community as quickly as possible and additional skilled volunteers who can work independently are needed. Please consider contributing your time or your crew’s time to completing one of these year round projects that can range from a porch rebuild to a walk-in shower install. Email or call Ben to find out what projects are in your neck of the woods. 253-238-0977

MBA Member Expo Connects New Business Opportunities

The MBA Member Expo featured many new members, Committees and benefit partners. More than 20 companies

were in attendance with display tables on March 20th. This event would not be possible without our sponsors. Thank you AAA KARTAK Glass & Closet Corp., Fournier Insurance Services, IAG Property Maintenance and JET

Door, LLC. Join us for our next event: General Membership Meeting Twisted Tuesday at Parr Cabinet Outlets on April 17. Mark your calendars for the annual MBA Remodeling

Excellence Awards on May 15!

A Century of Performance + Integrity 253.752.7000 fax 253.759.7567

graylumber.com

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Working on Committees Leads to New BusinessRick Hjelm, Phase II General Contractor, Inc.

Styles, textures and color options for distinctive homes with superior durability and low maintenance for homeowners,

and a competitive business advantage for you.

James Hardie Complete Exterior

Lap | Shingle | Panel | Trim

©2012 James Hardie Technology Limited. AD1201

Greater than the sum of its parts

Sometimes I wonder how members find all the time to do what they do.

For many of us the Master Builders Association isn’t the only organization we

belong to. Add in family time and friends, and collectively we don’t have much down time. Still many members managed to not only make the time for the MBA but volunteer for numerous committees and councils. This is hands down one of the best ways to utilize your membership. Don’t believe me? What you are actually doing is helping the MBA through committee work and, through your efforts, you will be able to UTILIZE the MBA. How? Once you have joined a committee of interest, and are comfortable with the committee’s focus, direction and who the main characters are, become actively involved on that committee. This is where other members will get to know you on a personal level. How you

interact goes a long way in determining how much trust they have in your abilities, your commitment and, most importantly, your follow through. Within committees you will meet and work with, other members who are from different building industry disciplines but share a common interest with you’ll grow your current book of business and gain opportunities to do additional business with builders, or associate members. This is the start of building your social capital. By growing your social capital you will be actually increasing your sales efforts. Again “how” you ask? Imagine how much time and effort it takes to make the dreaded cold call. Once you figure out the gate keeper, which could be a person or the hated voice-mail, and you have direct contact with the potential customer, you then need to convince them to meet with you. More than likely they already have people they work with, so you need to convince them why they should use you. Developing friendships through committee involvement could help you shave off months of time because those other members may have relationships already with your targeted potential accounts. Instead of a cold call you are personally introduced to, in most cases, the decision maker by the members you work with at the MBA. By joining a committee you can utilize other members and gain knowledge of builder job starts/projections, volume of associate company’s sales and if the builder/associate is a solid account. In a nutshell? You expand your sales efforts, through your social capital connections, thereby increasing your visibility and, by extension, your company’s brand. Again, think about how much time it takes to develop a relationship with one potential customer through cold calling. With the MBA you have access to multiple clients if you take advantage of all the networking opportunities available! The last thing I want to emphasize to you is these committees also have a lot of fun. When you get behind the scenes you also have an opportunity to help tell us what’s working and what isn’t. Everyone’s input is needed and valuable.

Within committees you will meet and work with other members who are from different building industry disciplines but share a common interest with you; current book of business and gaining opportunities to do additional business with builders, or other associate members.

April 2012 | www.mbapierce.com - 3

MBA Staff

Executive CommitteeRick Hjelm, CGR/CR

President

Board of Directors

MBA Mission StatementThe Master Builders Association of Pierce County is an organization consisting of home building professionals and related service providers. We promote the interests of the home building industry through membership involvement, legislative action, networking and education while striving to maintain the highest ethical standards.

Volume 20, Number 4, Dimensions is published 12 times per year: monthly in Jan., Feb., March, April, May, June, July, Aug., Sept., Oct., Nov. and Dec. by the Master Builders

Association of Pierce County, 1120 Pacific Ave, Suite 301, Tacoma, Washington 98402. Copyright 2012 by Master Builders Association of Pierce County. Opinions expressed are

those of the authors or persons quoted and not necessarily those of the MBA. Reproduction in whole or in part is prohibited without written permission from the publisher.

Kurt WilsonVice President Treasurer

Joe Maxwell2nd Vice President

Joe ZehnderVice President Secretary

Gary PedersenImmediate Past President

Lifetime DirectorsDan Abercrombie, Al Berger, Terry Brink, Rick Brunaugh,

Robert Camp, Bud Crest, Sean Comfort, Bob Coyne, Ray Dally,

Bob Denomy, Jeff Edwards, Mike Fast, CGR, Lyle Fox, Steve Garitone, Dave Graff, Buzz

Grant, Glen Graham, Harold Hansen, Dave Hendrickson, Clem Johnson, Rebecca Jones, David Kelly, David Litowitz, Todd Lord, Bob Lund, Ann McLaren, Bob

Mickey, John Miller, Merrit Nelson, Susie Nelson, Les Rhea, William

Schuur, Jr., John Slott, Pat Steffan, William Triquart, Doug

Vieselmeyer, Dick Wegner, Rick Yorkk, Jim Yurina, Joe Zelazny

Lifetime State DirectorsRobert Camp, Don Cash, Lyle

Fox, Steve Garitone, John Slott

Official Publication of: Master Builders Association of Pierce County1120 Pacific Ave., Ste. 301, Tacoma, WA 98402

Phone: (253) 272-2112 Fax: (253) 383-1047www.mbapierce.com info@mbapierce.com

Tiffany Speir- ext. 104 Executive Officer

Kawehi Marshall, CGA, CGP- ext. 105Events & Education Director

Shawn Hoey- ext. 101 Government Affairs Manager

Local DirectorsKent Arola, Josh Dunn,

Carolin Fast, Ron Hendrickson, Leslie Jensen, Joe Maxwell, Cathi Mahan,

Bob McClellan, Tessa Miller, Gary Pedersen Steve Shattuck CGR/

CAPS, Laureen Skrivan, Kurt Wilson, Dale Yeager,

Tim Yokes, Duke York CGR/CAPS, Sue Zimmerman

State DirectorsKent Arola, Ernie Dittmann, Mike Fast CGR, Dan Garber, Steve Garitone, Rick Hjelm CGR/CR, Randy Kruse, Carrie Litowitz, Susie Nelson, Gary Patterson,

Matt Rock, Tom O’Connor

National DirectorsBob Camp (Alt), Mike Fast CGR,

Lyle Fox (Alt), Carrie Litowitz,

Lifetime National DirectorsRobert Camp, Ray Dally, Mike Fast, CGR, Lyle Fox, Jim Yurina

Kim Taylor- ext. 103Member Benefits DirectorLaura Haworth- ext. 102

Communications/Marketing Manager

7‘sLucky

Las Vegas … International Builders Show … Spikes Only Party … Wanna Come?

Recruit 7 new Builder/Associate members by November 30 and WIN BIG-a trip for 2 to Las Vegas for the 2013 IBS Show that includes airfare, hotel, IBS Show admission, private cocktail reception and the famous NAHB Spikes Only Party.

Kurt Wilson (SoundBuilt Northwest) has already recruited 12 New Members and won 1 trip! Kent Arola (Wind River Homes) is more than halfway there with 4 New Members. Ernie Dittmann (ServiceMaster of Tacoma) and Cathi Mahan (Mahan & Company) have 3 each. 2 New Members (and Counting)-Dave Graff, Ron Hendrickson, Rebecca Jones, Steve Shattuck and Sue Zimmerman. Just started with 1 New Member are Klaas DeBoer, Lyle Fox, Rick Hjelm, Gary Pedersen, Bill Tucker, Scott Lee Wilson, Duke York and Joe Zehnder. Keep on bringing new members in – you can do it!

Kurt Wilson has won a ¼ page ad in the Dimensions newsletter (value of $198) by

recruiting during the month of March!

Special thanks to all the March Recruiters: Kent Arola, Ernie Dittmann, Dave Graff, Ron Hendrickson, Rebecca Jones, Cathi Mahan, Steve Shattuck, Kurt Wilson, Rick Hjelm, Bill

Tucker and Sue Zimmerman.

April Recruiter Rewards – Get your clubs dusted off and be game ready for the MBA Golf

Classic! The April Recruiter Rewards prize is one entry to the MBA Golf Classic held June 8 at Lipoma Firs (that is a $115 value!) For

every new member you recruit in April, you will receive one entry to win the MBA Golf Classic

registration. It’s that easy!

Recruiter Rewards Winner!

the United States can purchase homes in various price ranges. At the base of the pyramid are the large number of households with relatively modest incomes; the homes that these households can afford are also relatively modest. As expected, as home prices go up, fewer households in each tier are able to achieve homeownership. NAHB economists found that, based on conventional assumptions and underwriting standards, it takes an income of about $26,430 to purchase a $100,000 home, and that, in 2012, an estimated 28.9 million households in the U.S. have incomes below that threshold. These 28.9 million households form the bottom step of the pyramid. Of the remaining 87.5 million who can afford a home priced at $100,000, 23.3 million can only afford to pay a top price of somewhere between $100,000 and $175,000 (the second step on the pyramid). The pyramid is based on an income threshold and a 10% downpayment assumption. Households at the high end of the market may be more likely to have equity in a previously owned home or other accumulated wealth for a larger downpayment. However, this is less

As the country begins to climb

out of the tough economic times of the past few years, it doesn’t necessarily mean that the size of homes will go back to a bigger footprint, according to a recent study by economists at the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB). When the recession hit, the size of newly-built homes started to decrease — from 2,268 square feet in 2006 to 2,100 square feet last year. “Builders are responding to a new mindset among home buyers that has been shaped not just by a weak economy, and it is transforming the product they deliver,” said Bob Jones, NAHB chairman. There are other factors that are likely contributing to this new trend.

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Tiffany Speir, Esq.

Housing Design: Changed for Good?

Parr Lumber locations: Tacoma • MarysvilleParr Cabinet Outlet locations: Tacoma • Seattle • LynnwoodFor directions and hours visit www.parr.com or www.parrcabinetoutlet.com

Windows Doors Siding Millwork

Decking Fencing Cabinets Appliances

Parr Lumber is a Northwest family owned business with over 80 years experience in the building material industry. Parr offers a wide array of products, both in stock and by special order.Parr Cabinet Outlets provide quality cabinets at the lowest price around with inventory available on demand. We also offer countertops, appliances, flooring, sinks, faucets and hardware.

Whole House Solutions

continued on page 5

First, Americans are becoming more focused on energy conservation. A smaller new home will cost less to heat and cool than a larger home with similar energy-efficient features, and will leave a smaller carbon footprint. In addition, family size has been decreasing over the years. The average household in 1960 had 3.3 people, while in 2009 it was 2.63. Families don’t need to build homes with a lot of bedrooms if they aren’t planning to have as many kids as previous generations.

The economy is also affecting new home buyers’ decisions. Cost-conscious home buyers are choosing to include more and higher-quality features in their new homes rather than add square footage. Finally, around one-third of new homes are typically purchased by first-time buyers, who can often only afford smaller homes. Specifically, the NAHB Priced Out Model provides an affordability pyramid showing how many households in

April 2012 | www.mbapierce.com - 5

It has now been 2 years since the passage of Federal Health Care Reform known as the Patient Protection

and Affordable Care Act (PPACA). While the new law has generated much discussion and some controversy several of its provisions are now in effect. It’s most ambitious provisions are scheduled to be in operation by 2014. Before that time, the Supreme Court of the United States will weigh in on the constitutionality of key provisions of the law and there is that small event called a Presidential election to be held this fall. What we do know is there is a significant amount of uncertainty that continues to surround this law and that the cost of health care and health insurance continues to increase. The MBA of Pierce County has been a participant in the BIAW Health Insurance Trust for 18 years and provides this valuable member benefit to all members of the association. The Trust continues to offer a wide selection of affordable health insurance plans all of which conform to changes required by PPACA.

What are these changes?• There are no “lifetime benefit limits” on all BIAW Trust plans• There are no preexisting condition limits for children under the age of 19• Children can remain on their parent’s plan as a dependent until the age of 26• Annual preventive care, immunizations and screenings are covered without payment of a co-pay or application of co-insurance• Small business tax credits are available for qualifying businesses

• New minimum loss ratio rules have been imposed upon health insurance carriers that could result in premium rebates to consumers

What is coming in the next 2 years?The biggest challenge and most ambitious undertaking will be the establishment of State based Health Insurance Exchanges for the purchase of insurance by individuals and small businesses (less than 50 employees). The intent of these exchanges will be to have various levels of plans (by cost and coverage) provided by private insurance carriers that will contain certain “essential benefits” and allow certain low income individuals to qualify for government subsidies to help make the cost more affordable. Washington State has been at the forefront of establishing their exchange and just passed legislation regarding the operation and governance of its exchange. Participation in the BIAW Health Insurance Trust will allow you to purchase insurance outside the proposed exchange.Throughout the coming months the agencies responsible for implementing the new law will continue to promulgate regulations that will affect the operation of your health plan. As a member of the BIAW Trust you will be provided all necessary information and tools to remain in compliance with any new requirements. For more detailed and current information go to www.epkbenefits.com and click on “Health Care Reform”. Not yet a part of the BIAW Health Insurance Trust? Call Capital Benefit Services at 1-800-545-7011 ext. 6 for a free no obligation quote.

Health Care Reform 2.0Jerry Belur, EPK & Associates, Inc.

likely to be the case at the low end of the pyramid, where affordability is a major concern. Moreover, increased development costs can easily price these households out of the market for a new home. Builders are also addressing the rising interest in green building by incorporating the top green features that home buyers feel belong in a new house, including energy-efficient heating and air-conditioning units; energy-saving appliances and lighting; water-conserving fixtures and temperature-controlling windows. “Green building is the fastest-growing segment of the home building industry. We find that home

buyers are willing to pay more to get a home that is not only built to be environmentally friendly, but can also save them money on energy costs down the road,” said Chairman Jones. “When builders are able to meet these needs, their customers feel confident that they are working with a builder who is knowledgeable about the latest trends and will deliver a quality product.” Another J.D. Power study on home design also shows that customer satisfaction has increased in the design and aesthetic aspects of new home construction as well. The design and layout features that customers place the most

significance on in terms of builder performance include (in order of importance):

• Floor plan• Master/primary bathroom• Kitchen• Ability to customize• Interior comfort/environment• Flooring• Exterior architectural design• Windows and exterior doors

Home buyers planning to buy a brand-new house or condominium often cite energy-efficiency, open layout, a warranty, and being able to select appliances, flooring, paint colors and other design elements as factors driving their choice.

continued from page 4

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IR Government Affairs Strategic Plan Priorities

This is my second year of involvement in Government Affairs

as Legislative Strategy Committee (LSC) Chair. I am genuinely excited about the coming year and am ready

to hit many issues head on! This is also the second year of implementing the Master Builders Association of Pierce County’s Strategic Plan (Plan), which was completed by the Board of Directors in December 2010. The Plan identified sixteen Objectives & Strategies and a Work Plan for Government Affairs to be completed within a three year period. Below I have outlined the Objectives, Strategies and portions of the Work Plan that will be the Government Affairs program’s focus in 2012:

Focus on defining clear priorities Clear priorities which will need Governmental Affairs involvement in 2012 have been defined. This year we are certainly not short of issues that need involvement from government affairs. Some of those are:

• Review of Traffic Impact Fees in Pierce County• Implementation of new shoreline regulations for Pierce County and Cities such as Lakewood and University Place• City of Tacoma Building and Land Use (BLUS) new fee policy/implementation• Pierce County new fee policy implementation • Code efficiency review in Pierce County• Increase in SEPA thresholds for Pierce County and surrounding Cities

Educate Members on the importance of Governmental Affairs

• As issues are addressed we will present feedback to membership promptly. The feedback will be presented in a way that membership can understand. We will explain what benefits to membership were realized by addressing the issue.• We will provide opportunities at our membership meetings to learn more about governmental affairs. • We will provide information within our newsletter so that our membership can be better educated on the scope and importance of some of the issues that government affairs are involved in.

Continue and pro-actively identifying issues and adjust messaging accordingly

• We will continue to work pro-actively with the Building Industry of Association of Washington (BIAW) and the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) to identify state and national issues which might impact our local association. Increases in Bonding and Insurance requirements and the requirement for all single family residences to have a residential fire sprinkler system are just two examples of recent proposed legislation if implemented will negatively impact affordable housing.

Identify and Engage government affairs “Champions” throughout the association

• This Objective is one of my “pet peeves” and a top priority to be accomplished in 2012. As the number of local county and city issues that need to be addressed legislatively expand, it is necessary to expand the number of Champions within our Association.

We are looking for members of our Association (or future members for that matter!) who we can rely on for periodic assistance and feedback regarding issues in their own “back yard”. These members can be Builder or Associate members. For example, a MBA Builder member who does most of their building within the City of Puyallup and who keeps up with current events within the City could be defined as a “Champion” for issues within the City of Puyallup. We would receive feedback as to what issues are on-going within the City that are impacting that member and we would call on that member periodically to attend meetings at the City or MBA Legislative Strategy Committee (LSC) to pertinent City of Puyallup issues. You might want to think of it as the MBA LSC “Militia” or “Army Reserve”!

If any of our current members have an interest to be tagged as one of our Champions, or you know of potential new members that could be tagged as Champions, please let me know!

Build on Positive Relationships and Continue to Build Trust with Local Officials

• During the past several years Governmental Affairs has developed many strong relationships with Pierce County and the Cities adjacent to unincorporated Pierce County. In my 17 years as an MBA Board Member, I have seen periods of time

Sean Comfort, ABHL

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where relationships were not strong which made bring issues quickly to the table for discussion difficult. Currently we have quick and direct access to the decision makers at Pierce County and many of the cities within incorporated Pierce County. Here are a just a few examples of this:

Detached: Feb. ‘12 Av. New Hm. Price = $251,992/ Median New Hm. Price = $235,000 Av. New Hm. Cost per Sq. Ft. = $108.13 (up 7% from 2/11) Attached (new & existing): Feb. ‘12 Av. Hm. Price = $149,151 / Median Hm. Price = $135,000 / New Av. Cost Per Sq. Ft. = $110.15 (down 34% from 2/11)

Feb. ‘12 Average Lot Price = $42,482 / Median Lot Price = $36,000 / Av. Lot = 16.9% of Av. Home Price Med. Lot = 15.3% of Med. Home Price Av. Foreclosed SF Home Price: $153,896 (48.5% of existing homes / 41% of all homes for sale) Source: RealEstats (360-693-6525)

FEB. ‘12 YTD ‘12 FEB. ‘11 YTD ‘11 PIERCE COUNTY

Lots Created 17 17 0 0 SF Base / Custom 46 / 32 98 / 52 51 / 28 139 / 56 Addition / Remodel 23 / 8 39 / 14 54 / 8 85 / 12

Duplex / Man. / TownHouse 0 / 9 / 0 8 / 16 / 0 4 / 21 / 0 4 / 34 / 0 DUPONT

SF / Add-Remodel 0 / 0 0 / 0 4 / 2 9 / 3 MF / Manufactured 0 / NA 0 / NA 0 / NA 0 / NA

FIFE SF / Add-Remodel 0 / NA 0 / NA 0 / NA 3 / NA MF / Manufactured NA / NA NA / NA NA / NA NA / NA

GIG HARBOR SF / Add-Remodel 9 / 1 14 / 1 5 / 2 8 / 2 MF / Manufactured 0 / NA 0 / NA 0 / 0 0 / 0

LAKEWOOD SF / Add-Remodel 0 / 0 0 / 0 4 / 14 6 / 30 MF / Manufactured 0 / NA 0 / NA 0 / NA 0 / NA

TACOMA SF / Add-Remodel 6 / 27 18 / 71 12 / 48 21 / 99 MF / Manufactured 0 / 0 0 / 0 0 / 0 0 / 0

UNIVERSITY PLACE SF / Add-Remodel 5 / 7 6 / 9 1 / 0 / 7 3 / 0 / 12 MF / Manufactured 1 / N/A 1 / N/A 0 / NA 0 / NA

on a regular basis with the City of Tacoma to ensure that our member’s needs are being addressed. • MBA Forum Meeting – This is a monthly meeting held at MBA offices. Representatives from Pierce County and the surrounding cities that our members do business within are invited to this meeting. Many of the Building Officials attend as well as Planning and Public Works staff. Recently we have been working together to create a single Master Building Permit Application that can be used by Pierce County as well as the cities within incorporated Pierce County. This idea is being well received and we are well on our way to getting this accomplished!

• Pierce County Coalition Meeting - Pierce County MBA, AGC and the Pierce County Realtors Association have a monthly Coalition meeting with the County Executive Pat McCarthy and her Senior Staff. The purpose of this meeting is to have open discussion about on-going issues that need resolution with the County, and to discuss how the entire Coalition can team together to address issues as well. Having direct access to the Pierce County Executive and the Senior Staff on a regular basis continues to strengthen our relationships with Pierce County.• City of Tacoma Building and Land Use (BLUS) Technical Advisory Committee (TAG) Meeting - The BLUS TAG meeting is held on a quarterly basis. The purpose of this Committee meeting is to provide feedback on positive and negative experiences that our members are having with the City of Tacoma Building Permit/Land Use Process. We also discuss other Policy issues with the Senior City Staff. This is a great opportunity to represent membership

Government Affairs is a very important function with Pierce County MBA. In a difficult economy the regulatory climate has not become easier, but more difficult. I am proud to be associated with many of our Members who devote much of their valuable time to represent our Membership to resolve many difficult local regulatory issues. Moving forward it is very critical to continue to keep in front of many issues which serve to further disable the Affordable Housing industry further. Government Affairs is always looking for additional enthusiastic members who are interested to represent our Membership! Come join our team!

MBA Proud PartnersProud Partners is a new Dimensions

Sponsorship.

AHBL, Inc.www.abhl.com

Associated Petroleum Productswww.associatedpetroleum.com

Blue Dolfin Interiors www.bluedolfininteriors.com

Buffington Custom Homeswww.luxuryhomenw.com

Cascade Print Mediawww.cascadeprintmedia.com

Codel Entry Systems, Corp.www.codelentrysystems.com

Colbalt Mortgagewww.cobaltmortgage.com/

jenniferedwards/

Fournier Insurance Solutionswww.fourniersolutions.com

Getting Personal Imprinting LLCwww.gettingpersonalimprinting.com

Harbor Home Design, Inc.www.harborhomedesign.com

Hyland Cabinetworks, Inc.www.hylandcabinetworks.com

Jet Door LLCwww.jetdoorllc.com

Parr Lumber Co.www.parr.com

Phase II General Contractor, Inc.www.phaseii.net/

Pedersen Constructiongarypedersen123@cs.com

Puget Sound Energywww.pse.com

ServiceMaster Of Tacomawww.smtacoma.com

SoundBuilt Northwestwww.soundbuilthomes.com

Thank you March MBA Sponsors

Albert Lee AppliancesAAA KARTAK Glass & Closet Corp.

Crescent Lighting Supply, Inc.Fournier Insurance Services IAG Property Maintenance

Jet Door, LLC Pedersen ConstructionSoundBuilt Northwest

Contact Kawehi Marshall if you would like to sponsor an MBA program or event at 253.272.2112 ext. 105 or at events@mbapierce.com.

Our Employee Benefits Toolbox is the only one that includes: • A20-Year history of savings •Benefits-rich plans to keep employees smiling • Simplified,single source billing,tomakelifeeasier

Learn more about the MBA Health Insurance Program,by calling 1-800-545-7011, ext. 6 or visit us online at www.epkbenefits.com

The Right ToolsFor Your Health Insurance Benefits

Does Your Current Health Plan Fail to Measure Up? Call Us Today!

CBS_MBA_Pierce_Cty_Ad_Measure_CLR_Half.indd 1 11/9/07 9:57:02 AM

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BIAW Member Rebate Program www.HBArebates.com

What would you think if you could get a rebate for your loyalty to many of the nation’s leading housing industry Manufacturers? Well, now you can regardless of your volume!

We’re happy to introduce the BIAW Member Rebate Program, a free member benefit, aimed at increasing your bottom line. For the minimal effort of informing us about the products you use,

and telling us when you close on a home or project, you’ll be putting money back in your pocket. When you participate in the BIAW Member Rebate Program, every home you build can earn you rebate checks! Remember, both Builders AND Remodelers qualify for the BIAW Member Rebate

Program. Over 70% of the Builders & Remodelers who participated in 2010 received back in rebates more than they paid in annual dues to the Association!

May 10, 2012DPC Networking Meeting

5:30 to 7:30 pm

Join the DPC Council for a night of networking at Floor Covering Express.

Co-sponsors Mohawk will be on hand to talk about their new product, “Silk” the softest carpet ever, made of

SmartStrand with DuPont Sonora fiber. The theme? It’s a surprise – you’ll have

to join us to find out!

Event is free, RSVP by no later than Monday, May 7

RSVP At http://dpcmay.eventbrite.com

3143 Bridgeport Way WUniversity Place, WA 98466

Cosponsored By:

2012 REX Awards Gala MBA Remodelors™ Council Invites You

Tuesday, May 15 6:00 pm

Fircrest Country Club 1500 Regents Blvd. Fircrest, WA 98466

Preview: 6:00 pm

Dinner and Awards: 6:45 pm Cost: $50.00 per person

Dress Code: Semi-Formal attire

Please reserve _______ places at the 2012 REX Awards Gala, $52 per person paying by credit card, $50 per person cash/check discount

Name ____________________________________________________________

Company Name ___________________________________________________

Phone ___________________________________________________________

I would like to request ______vegetarian meal. _____ Check Enclosed _____ VISA / MC / AX / DISC

Card # ___________________________________________________________

Name on Card _____________________________________________________

Billing Address ____________________________________________________

Exp ______________ V Code _____________

Signature ________________________________________________________ The Remodelors™ Council requests the favor of your reply by Tuesday, May 8 by

Fax:253-383-1047 or mail. 48 hour cancellation notice required for refund.

Throughout 2012 the MBA is going to focus on Doing Business with a Member. With this, the PR Committee is working on encouraging consumers to “Look for the Logo” when buying a

new house or selecting a contractor for a big home renovation on our new website. Why should you use the MBA logo? Here are just a few reasons:

• The MBA logo is a symbol of quality craftsmanship, professional service and sound business practice. • The MBA has a strong tradition of excellence. For over 65 years, MBA has set the standard for quality construction in the Pierce County area. • All MBA Members abide by a strict Code of Ethics. Prior to gaining membership in the Association, all companies undergo a thorough review process which includes multiple background and business checks.• MBA Members are constantly learning. They have exclusive access to all sorts of studies and reports, technical updates and educational sessions through our State and National Associations.

Most importantly, not all homebuilders are MBA members. Your business stands out by using the MBA logo on your business cards, websites, print advertisements and more!

Look for the LogoTessa Miller Business Examiner

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THE PR CO

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ITTEE CHA

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These are just a few examples of how members are using the MBA logo. Every month we will be recognizing members who proudly display their MBA logo in any form of advertising. Don't have the logo yet? Contact communications@mbapierce.com for a copy today!

Where are you using your MBA logo? Send us a photo at communications@mbpiaerce.com.

April 2012 | www.mbapierce.com - 11

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This year’s MBA Spikes Only

Party has been set. Ernie Dittmann

volunteered his place on American Lake to host, stay tuned for the exact date in August. To qualify for an invitation, you must be a Spike AND have recruited at least one new member from August 1, 2011 to July 31, 2012 OR have at least 100 Spike points. Some of you are probably reading this and scratching your head over just what a “Spike” is. A Spike is a member that works to grow and strengthen our Association through member recruitment, retention, and involvement. Before becoming a Spike, you are a Spike candidate. That means you have earned between one and five points. Once you earn your sixth point, you become an official NAHB Spike! Spike points are earned by recruiting and retaining MBA members and Remodelors Council members. To retain your status as a Spike you must earn a minimum of one new Spike point each year until you reach a total of 25 credits, at which point you are elevated to Life Spike status. Working within the current budget provisions (meaning $0 MBA budget dollars) the Spikes are offering special Spike Sponsorships to go along with the money they raise with the Spike Raffle funds from the General Membership Meetings to buy things for the party. There will be Seven Special Spike Sponsorships offered this year to the first 7 sponsors interested … a mere $100 buys you a special Spike sponsorship and gets you a ticket to the party, space to post a banner (you supply the banner), and your company name mentioned on all the advertising and invitations. What a

deal – access to MBA’s 100 Spike members. Sense a theme with the 7’s? MBA has a total of four new member incentive programs going on throughout this year:

• Lucky 7’s is the MBA New Member Incentive Drive – bring 7 new Builder or Associate Members to MBA to join by November 30 and you win a trip for two to Las Vegas to go to the International Builders Show in January 2013. • Recruiter Rewards is underway – for every new member you recruit during the month, you receive an entry to

win a prize that month. MBA Golf Classic registration, a Rainiers Suite for 15, tickets to the Sounders, and more! • Just 1 Campaign– Starting in March, the Membership & Spike Club Committee began their “Just 1” Campaign encouraging every member of the MBA to invite just one company or person to become a MBA Member in 2012, essentially doubling the MBA’s size in just one year. Invite your prospective member to a General Membership, Twisted Tuesday Networking, Remodelors™ Council or Design Professionals Council meeting or ask them if they would like information on MBA’s benefit programs – some designed to save members money, others designed to make members money. Increasing the size of the MBA benefits all members with healthier Councils and Committees, better networking opportunities, and improved benefit programs. • Beat 2011 – the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB), the Building Industry Association of Washington (BIAW) and the MBA have joined forces in a national membership campaign that will run through 2012. The goal is to beat overall membership count from 2011. NAHB will be providing monthly prizes (iPads) to both associations and individual recruiters who show the most growth in net new member count and both NAHB and BIAW will be providing financial incentives to associations that beat their starting number by December 31, 2012. MBA started 2012 with 609 Builder & Associate members and that is our number to beat in 2012 – Game On!

Spike’s Party and Incentive AnnouncementsKent Arola, Wind River Homes

The goal is to beat overall membership count from 2011. NAHB will be providing monthly prizes (iPads) to both associations and individual recruiters who show the most growth in net new member count and both NAHB and BIAW will be providing financial incentives to associations that beat their starting number by December 31, 2012.

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General Membership Events

April 17 Twisted Tuesday NetworkingLocation: Parr Cabinet Outlet-

Fife

April 28 Rebuilding Together

South Sound Rebuilding Day

May 15Remodeling Excellence(REX) Awards Dinner

Location:Fircrest Golf Club

June 8MBA Golf Classic

Location: Lipoma Firs (Puyallup)

June 27–29 BIAW Summer Board of

Directors MeetingLocation: Pasco

Design Professionals Council5:30 p.m. - 2nd Thursday

April 12Tech Tips to Increase Your Business

with Tessa Miller, Social Media & Digital Manager, Business Examiner

Location: MBA Office

May 10Location: Floor Covering Express -

University Place

June 14Gourmet Kitchen & Cooking Show at

Albert Lee Appliance Tacoma Location: Tacoma Mall Location

July 12BBQ Picnic & Potluck

Location TBA

Remodelors™ Council6 p.m. - 4th Tuesday

May 1- Date ChangeWeir’s Appliances

May 15REX Awards

Location: Fircrest Golf Club

June 26Keller SupplyTacoma, WA

July 24Annual Crab Feed

Chambers Bay Golf CourseGray Lumber (TORH Sponsor)

August 28Contract Furnishings Mart

(lifetime sponsor)- Fife

September 25Crescent Lighting(REX Sponsor)

3214 20th St E - Fife

ARC: 1202

APPAssociated Petroleum Products, Inc.

Corporate Headquarters2320 Milwaukee Way, Tacoma, WA 98421

(800) 929-5243 or (253) 627-6179Fax: (253) 627-3637

www.associatedpetroleum.comwww.apppropane.com

Join the MBA of Pierce County Group Fuel Program!

Help your fellow members and the MBA of Pierce County save and earn• Cumulative group gallons will earn quarterly rebates• 75% of rebate paid to member, 25% paid to the MBA of Pierce County• Earn quarterly rebates based on your fuel purchasesThis past quarter MBA members earned $.06/gal

Sign up today to start saving & earning MBA $$$$$!Contact Dennis Gregory, Sales Representative

dgregory@associatedpetroleum.com253-606-3092

We can save you money! Come to us for your countertops. Vanities as low as $188

253-539-0268 5211 Suite B, South Washington

Tacoma WA 98409

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Alaska USA Mortgage Bud Perry33530 1st Way SouthFederal Way, WA 98003(253) 380-4648 (F) (253) 815-4690 www.alaskausamortgage.com Mortgages/Specialty Financing SPIKE: Kurt Wilson

Anderson Law Firm PLLCMark Anderson1119 Pacific Ave, Ste 1305 Tacoma, WA 98402(253) 327-1750 (F) (253) 327-1751 Attorney; Legal Services SPIKE: Rebecca Jones

Anderson Law Firm PLLC Daniel Shin1119 Pacific Ave, Ste 1305 Tacoma, WA 98402(253) 327-1750 (F) (253) 327-1751Attorney; Legal Services SPIKE: Rebecca Jones

Anderson Law Firm PLLC James Chung 1119 Pacific Ave, Ste 1305 Tacoma, WA 98402(253) 327-1750 (F) (253) 327-1751Attorney; Legal Services SPIKE: Rebecca Jones

Arthur J Gallagher Risk Management Services David Brink1015 A St, Ste 800Tacoma, WA 98402(253) 238-1131 (F) (253) 572-1430 www.ajg.comInsurance; Financial Services SPIKE: Joe Zehnder

Chateau Homes & Construction LLCJamie KnoblauchPO Box 2252Sumner, WA 98390(253) 435-9296 (F) (253) 435-9297General ContractorSPIKE: Sue Zimmerman

WELCOME BACKDouble Eagle InteriorsMark Thompson2880 West Valley Hwy N #102 Auburn, WA 98001(253) 804-8800 (F) (253) 804-8801 www.doubleeagleinteriors.com Floor Coverings SPIKE: Kurt Wilson

LeRoy Surveyors & Engineers (LS&E)Damon DeRosa1103 Shaw Rd.Puyallup, WA 98372(253) 848-6608 (F) (253) 840-4140 www.lseinc.comEngineering/SurveyingSPIKE: Lyle Fox

Pacific Home SourceGabe Spruell2401 W StewartPuyallup, WA 98371(253) 312-5523 (F) (253) 845-1080 www.pacifichomesource.com Design, ResidentialSPIKE: Cathi Mahan

ProBuild - Truss DivisionFrank Novak5519 20th St ETacoma, WA 98424(253) 833-1050 (F) (253) 735-1126 www.probuild.comTrussesSPIKE: Tom Wolfram

?MBA HISTORY CHECK

Did you know that since its creation in 1945, the MBA has gone by 5 different names?

Name all 5 names and you win a $25 Gift Card to Savi Day Spa.

Name at least 3 names and win $100 GRAND*

Email: membership@mbapierce.com with your answers – be sure to spell the names out! In the event of a dispute, final decision will be made by the MBA Executive Officer Tiffany Speir.

*$100 GRAND Nestle candy bar

Designations-

Are they worth the Effort?

Schedule6pm- various locations

May 1Weirs Appliance

10909 Portland Ave. E, Tacoma

MAY 15REX AWARDS DINNER

Location: Fircrest Golf Club

JUNE 26Keller Supply

3620 S Cedar, Tacoma

JULY 24Annual Crab Feed

Chambers Bay Golf Course9850 64th St. W, University Place,

Gray Lumber (TORH Sponsor)

April 2012 | www.mbapierce.com - 15

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Duke York, CGR, CAPS York Enterprises

A part of what I have been

doing this year as chair is working on a mentoring program. This will allow new and small remodeling contractors to find someone with experience to help them avoid some of the pitfalls the older, larger members have dealt with in their struggles to be more successful. As I began my career in remodeling, I was looking to something to make myself sound a little more credible than just “a guy with a sincere interest in remodeling.” If you are a small contractor and have an interest in growing your business, this might sound familiar. After joining the MBA, the next step was to find a way to present something tangible, like a certificate, to show I was ‘a little bit better’ than average. Education is at the very core of the National Association of Home Builders’ (NAHB) mission. Through NAHB and its state and local affiliates like Master Builders Association of Pierce County, members and non-members receive the information and preparation that allow them to gain the competitive edge needed in our thriving industry. The NAHB provides several classes through our state and local builders organizations that allow MBA members to do just what we should be looking for. Obtain national certification showing we are ‘a little bit better.’ A Certified Graduate Remodeler (CGR) is a series of classes that is initiated through a “Prep” test. This test allows you to become aware of how many courses you need to pair up with

your present knowledge to enable you to hang this certification on you wall. It is nationally registered and widely known, that a Certifed Graduate Remodeler is accomplished at several aspects of his business. NAHB also has a number of other individual classes as well as additional certifications, such as the Certified Aging in Place (CAPS) designation. With so many baby boomers retiring, it is a great business booster to be able to advertise that you can plan a retiree’s home remodel so that it will allow he or she to remain at home no matter what sort of challenges old age might throw at them. There are several other designations available to you as members. and updated courses geared toward experienced remodeling professionals. If you want more information on designations and other terrific classes presented for your benefit by NAHB and the Master Builders Association of Pierce County, contact Kawehi Marshal at 253-272-2112 and get certified! I also want to thank Albert Lee Appliance for hosting our March meeting – what an incredible spread of food and

great information shared by all the vendors, and we cannot forget the many, many, many prizes. Thank you Albert Lee Appliance. Don’t miss out on our April meeting to be held at Weir’s Appliance on the 24th at 6 pm. Please RSVP at: http://rcapril.eventbrite.com/

THANKS FOR RENEWING*

*As of 2/29/12

Members 25 to 29 YearsRaisl & Company CPA’s, PS

Members 20 to 24 YearsHendrickson Construction CompanyOakridge Homes, Ltd.Sound Glass Sales Inc.

Members 15 to 19 YearsEdminster Construction Co., Inc.Law Offices of Robert Denomy

Members 10 to 14 YearsLee & Keiter EnterprisesLeo Finnegan Construction Company, Inc.News Tribune, TheOnedurr, Inc.Saybr Contractors, Inc.WFG National Title Company

Members 5 to 9 YearsAzure Green Consultants, LLCOld Town Tile, LLCOlympic Management Co.Parker Drafting Service

Members 2 to 4 YearsEmerald Heated South Storage Inc.Evergreen Lumber Inc.Ground Source Energy NWJenco Building Services, Inc.Legal Shield dba ReparteQuickTin, Inc.Yeager Associates Land Use + Planning

Members First YearKitchen PlusOmega Custom HomesWelcher’s Gun Shop Inc.

Dave GraffSteve GaritonePat SteffanSusie NelsonRick HjelmSteve ShattuckCathi MahanLyle FoxGordon NeuSue ZimmermanRebecca JonesDuke YorkGary PattersonRick BrunaughMatt RockDan GarberKent ArolaJoe MaxwellKurt WilsonJim YurinaJosh DunnJoe ZehnderLynne HillLaureen SkrivanTim Yokes

TOP 25 RECRUITING SPIKES

597.25514.75286.75261.5251.75232.75155.75149.5149.25138.5126.25107.591.586.584.2582.7574.56553.55048.7548.538.534.2532.25

Dave GraffSteve GaritoneDavid LitowitzPat SteffanCarri LitowitzSusie NelsonRick HjelmSteve ShattuckRandy KruseRobert CampWilliam Schuur JrBud CrestDave HendricksonKirk HarrCathi MahanMichael R FastLyle FoxGordon NeuSue ZimmermanRebecca JonesFred BrownWayne ManganDuke YorkGary PattersonScott Carino/ Gary Howe

597.25514.75325286.75276261.5251.75232.75232.5205.5191173.5171167155.75155.5149.5149.25138.5126.25119114107.591.588.5 each

TOP 25 ALL TIME SPIKES

* Per NAHB Active Spikes as of 2/29/2012

* Per NAHB Spikes as of 2/29/2012