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The LINCOLN BUSINESS BUILDER June 2011

Published monthly by the Home Builders Association of Lincoln Volume 48 No. 6

Nadine’s Retirement Party

HBAL’s Photo Gallery

See more photos on pages 14-15 or online at

www.hbal.org/formembers/gallery

Don’t Miss Out on the Fun!!

We have more fun events coming up soon! See page 4 for information regarding HBAL’s upcoming events!

Check out HBAL’s Online Photo Gallery at www.hbal.org/formembers/gallery

President’s Message Upcoming Events

Contents 3 4-5

Spike Club: Questions & Answers 16 Spike Club: Current Standings

17

5

Advertise With Us!

18

Member News

6-7

Directory Changes

20

HBAL Mailbox

7

Renewals

20

The Winning Hand

8

Cancellations 20

Financial Column

9

Job Safety and Health: IT’S THE LAW!

22

Safety Tip

23

Eye on the Economy

Step by Step Remodelers Council Golf Tournament Nadine’s Retirement Party

10-11 12 14-15

National Home Ownership Month Building Permit Update

24-25 26

Find this guy in the Lincoln Business Builder and be the third person to call HBAL (402-423-4225) with his location and your meal at the next General Membership Meeting is on us!

Only one call per member company will be allowed. Note that once you win, you are not eligible for 12 months. If there is not a third caller, the prize will not be awarded.

Celebrating

60

YEARS

Find the Frog!

1951-2011

Home Builders Association of Lincoln

President’s Message

Home Builders Association of Lincoln

6100 S. 58th Street, Suite C, Lincoln, NE 68516 (402) 423-4225 phone • (402) 423-4251 fax www.hbal.org • info@hbal.org The Lincoln Business Builder is published 12 times per year by the Home Builders Association of Lincoln, 6100 S. 58th Street, Suite C, Lincoln, NE 68516. The Lincoln Business Builder is mailed to all members of the HBAL. The Home Builders Association does not accept responsibility for or endorse any statements or claims made by advertisers or authors of any articles.

The annual subscription rate is included with your membership dues.

Mike Benker Jennie Korth Publisher Editor, Photographer, Design Executive Committee Lois Hartzell, GMB, CSP, President Dan Klein, Sr., President Elect Mike Rezac, 1st Vice President Perry Haralson, 2nd Vice President Dan Walker, Secretary Bob Bryant, Treasurer Mike Rezac, Immediate Past President Jerry Boyce, Executive Board Mike Benker, Executive Vice President Board of Directors Eric Hoke, Ken Inness, CGP Justin Johnson, Mike Kinning, Matt Kleinschmit, Jo Lewis, Mike May, Brock Peters, Chuck Pfenning, Gary Reese, Ken Svoboda Remodelers Council Jenny Samek National Directors Steve Fulton, CGP Mike Goings, CGP, CSP Allen Barber, Alternate Lois Hartzell, GMB, CSP, Alternate Mike Rezac, Alternate National Life Directors Jim Christo, CGR, CGB, Joe Hampton, Duane Helmink, John Hoppe, Jr., Ward Fred Hoppe, Joe McKee, Robert Peterson, J. Greg Schwinn, Bob Stephens, Jerry Witthuhn Past Presidents Mike Benker, Rick Krueger, Dan Kubr, Donn Mann, Sam Manzitto, Roger Reynolds, CGR, CAPS, Don Rowe, Greg Shinaut, CGP, Ken Westerhold

President’s Message Lois Hartzell, HBAL President The great thing about being HBAL’s president is that for one year you can say what you want and someone is going to hear it.

So, it is time again to write my message. I came across this from the Celebrating great Benjamin Franklin and decided to pass it along.

Benjamin Franklin would take one of these virtues each week and write it on the top of a sheet of paper. During the week he would 1951-2011 strive to put the virtue into practice. When he did something poorly regarding the virtue, he would place a small “x” on his page. When he did something good regarding the virtue, he would place a check mark on the page. Maybe you can find one or two of these virtues and apply them into your lives.

Temperance Eat not to dullness; drink not to elevation.

Silence Speak not but what may benefit others or yourself; avoid trifling conversation.

Order Let all your things have their places; let each part of your business have its time.

Resolution Resolve to perform what you ought; perform without fail what you resolve.

Frugality Make no expense but to do good to others or yourself; i.e., waste nothing.

Lose no time. Be always employed in something useful. Cut off all Industry unnecessary actions.

Sincerity Use no hurtful deceit; think innocently and justly, and, if you speak, speak accordingly.

Justice Wrong none by doing injuries, or omitting the benefits that are your duty.

Moderation Avoid extremes; forbear resenting injuries so much as you think they deserve.

Cleanliness Tolerate no uncleanliness in body, clothes, or habitation.

Tranquility Be not disturbed at trifles, or at accidents common or unavoidable.

Humility Imitate Jesus and Socrates.

On to business, what a month. For all of you who were able to attend Nadine’s retirement party, THANK YOU. And for those who weren’t there, you missed a great event. One of the many things that happened was that Nadine was made an Honorary Life Member of our association. So please, I hope all of you make sure to encourage her to continue to be a part of us. We will miss you, Nadine, but know you are still with us. Our best to you and Frank as you begin this new chapter in your life.

From all reports, the Spring Parade of Homes was very successful. We appreciate the input from the builders, and hope the summer will be a busy and productive time for you and all of our members.

We are having another OSHA 10 Hour class June 8-9. Once announced, the class filled very quickly. Our goal is to have many more OSHA-related educational opportunities for our members. So, call Jennie and get on the waiting list for future OSHA meetings.

60

YEARS

June 2011 Vol. 48, No. 6

I am looking forward to working with Mike Benker as our new Executive Vice President.

He has been a great asset to HBAL since he first joined in 2004. In his new role, we will benefit from his knowledge of the many government rules and regulations which affect our members’ daily. If Mike calls and wants your involvement, please say yes!

HBAL Staff Kayla Harrison & Jennie Korth 3  Lincoln Business Builder

Upcoming Events

HBAL Spikes

Calendar of Events June 3

Lincoln Home Builders Care Foundation Benefit Golf Tournament First tee-off 6:45 a.m. • Last tee-off 4:00 p.m.

Cost: $60.00 per person Highlands Golf Course • 5501 NW 12th Street

Get Ready for Summer Fun with Fellow Spikes!

Thursday, August 11, 2011

June 8

Remodelers Council Picnic 11:30 a.m. • $9 per person Antelope Park • Shelter #2 Lunch from Lee’s Chicken

Spikes “Pig Out” at Ribfest

June 9

Board of Directors 10:30 a.m.

HBAL Office

Receive free admission for two to enjoy ribs & refreshments.

Weatherization Training Metropolitan Community College (Omaha) now offers Weatherization Training classes at their new Weatherization Training Center. To register call: 402-457-5231 Questions about these courses should be directed to Daniel Lawse at Metropolitan Community College (MCC). Phone: 402-738-4564.

Contact Nina Rogers at the Omaha Career Center to see if you qualify for Tuition Assistance through the NE Dept. of Labor’s SYNERGY Energy Sector Training Grant. Phone: 402-595-3022.

Join your fellow Spikes at Lincoln’s largest cookout!

•

Free admission for Spike & one guest

• Reserved seating for Spike Club Members • Entertainment • Award-winning BBQ chefs & pit bosses from around the country •

Live music

• Fun & conversation with other Spikes on a great summer evening Spikes fax this form to 402-423-4251 or RSVP to 402-423-4225 or info@hbal.org.

Reservations required by August 4 so we can mail you your tickets. _____ Yes, I want to “pig out” at the Ribfest _____ Sorry, I can’t attend _____________________________________ Spike Club Member’s name & name of guest Want to learn more about becoming a Spike?

Turn to pages 16-17 for information about the Spike Club including a list of current Spikes.

4  Lincoln Business Builder

Upcoming Events | Eye on the Economy

Mark Your Calendar!

Take Me Out to the Ballgame

A Night at the Saltdogs Tuesday, August 16, 2011

Lincoln Saltdogs vs.

Sioux Falls Pheasants First Pitch is at 7:05 p.m.

Ameritas T-Shirt Tuesday / Outdoor Night Each and every Tuesday this year the Saltdogs and Ameritas are teaming up to give away unique T-shirts. On August 16, the t-shirt is a Hunting the Pheasants design. T-Shirts will be distributed to the first 1,000 fans through the gates (sizes come in Small & Extra Large).

Lincoln Home Builders Care Foundation

Sporting Clay Shoot Thursday, October 13, 2011 Oak Creek Sporting Club 2890 “W” Road 3 miles east and 1-1/8 miles south of Brainard, or 2 miles north of Loma.

Sponsorships are available.

Contact Jennie at jennie@hbal.org or call the HBAL office at 402-423-4225 for more information.

Look for more information about these events in future issues of the Lincoln Business Builder.

Eye on the Economy: Housing Recovery Remains Elusive in 2011

As the nation’s housing industry slowly moves to higher ground, weak consumer confidence in the face of persistently high unemployment and a wobbly U.S. economy will restrain housing demand and production this year, according to speakers at NAHB’s semi-annual Construction Forecasting Webinar on April 27.

But housing market conditions are improving, noted NAHB Chief Economist David Crowe, with housing affordability at its best in a generation and household formation rates beginning to thaw from the deep freeze induced by the recession. Overall, Crowe expects little improvement in single-family housing starts in 2011, but solid gains in multifamily starts.

Moody’s Analytics Chief Economist Mark Zandi added that he expected further modest declines in house prices over the next 12 to 18 months as a result of the ongoing foreclosure crisis.

However, NAHB Senior Economist Robert Denk indicated that foreclosures and house price declines are limited to a small number of troubled states — including Arizona, California, Florida and Nevada.

Key economic data released in the past two weeks show the employment situation improving, with an increase of 244,000 new jobs in April and an average of 233,000 jobs added per month since February. Even so, 22 months into the recovery unemployment is at a lofty 9.0% and 13.7 million Americans are officially out of work.

An increase in residential construction spending in March has also brought mixed news — with the improvement limited to home improvement spending, with single-family and multifamily construction spending down, in line with weak housing starts.

The NAHB Remodeling Market Index climbed in the first quarter of 2011 to its highest level in the past five years — additional evidence of a rosier outlook for the home improvement sector.

New data on homeownership from the Census Bureau suggest that tight credit conditions for home buying are having a disproportionately negative impact on those under age 35.

A new NAHB study using data from the association’s Housing Opportunity Index finds that homeownership is much less affordable for blacks, Hispanics and Native Americans.

And Washington has recently seen the emergence of another complicated tax proposal that would erode homeownership opportunities for middle-income earners, significantly limiting deductions for mortgage interest and real estate taxes.

5  Lincoln Business Builder

Member News

Member News Inness, Ruskamp, Shinaut Receive Award of Excellence Ken Inness, president of Skyline Homes, Bob Ruskamp of Lincoln Electric System and Greg Shinaut of Black Hills Energy received an Award of Excellence from Governor Dave Heineman for their participation in the Lincoln Stabilization Program. Skyline Homes built a new home at 901 Garfield Street where the previous house had burned Pictured: Greg Shinaut, Ken Inness, beyond repair.

Gov. Heineman and Bob Ruskamp This new home was built to the National Home Builders gold standard for green homes and is a Five Star Energy Star house.

All three men are members of HBAL and serve on the Nebraska Green Build Council. These individuals are dedicated to educating the public and builders in the advantages of building energy efficient and Green.

Ken Inness added “I would especially thank Greg and Bob for their help in achieving the Gold Certificate on this home.”

Local Culligan Dealer Grabs Top Sales Spot on Continent Hard water, high efficiency lead to hiring in Lincoln Culligan International announces Hall’s Culligan of Lincoln has won the Premier Award as the top selling medium market dealer in North America. The honor recognizes “those [franchise] dealers and [corporate-owned dealerships] who exhibited the strongest growth in revenues in the second half of 2010 vs. 2009.”

“Our success is a result of hard work, incredible personnel and the best product available,” says Brandon Sims, sales manager of Hall’s Culligan of Lincoln. “While this accomplishment is a nice recognition, our performance has paid even bigger dividends as we just added a fourth residential water specialist to the staff.”

In addition to the dealership’s overall success salespeople Frank Robak and Eileen Campbell both received Top Gun sales awards for their performances in terms of sales percentage over base.

Robak and Campbell were 4th and 18th respectively. Sims himself was 3rd in the sales manager division of the same award. The dealership also recently received a Trailblazer Award for its HE sales record.

The announcement is made as the Culligan brand celebrates its 75th anniversary this year.

6  Lincoln Business Builder

Joe Hampton Receives Keystone Award Joe Hampton was honored on May 12, 2011, by the Seniors Foundation of Lincoln and Lancaster County. Joe received the Keystone Award for providing a lasting legacy to enhance the quality of life for older adults in the community.

Joe Hampton was a 22-year-old electrician in Chadron, Nebraska when he came to Lincoln in 1947 to visit his hospitalized mother.

While in the Capital City, he did a little job-hunting and took a position as an electrician. The job paid 90 cents an hour plus overtime. This was an improvement over his Chadron job that paid 70 cents and no overtime.

Making Lincoln his home, Hampton built his first house at 41st and L Street in 1949, turning an $800 profit. In 1964 he made the leap from homebuilder to developer by purchasing land that became the city’s first office park and residential community—Lincolnshire Square.

Hampton formed Hampton Enterprises which evolved from a home-based business into a successful commercial development company. The firm continued to build and develop commercial properties in Lincoln, including Williamsburg Village Corporate Centre and Meadowlane Shopping Center.

Joe Hampton formed a company built on a solid foundation. He also developed a reputation as a leader in the development of housing for older adults.

Joe has served on the Lincoln Airport Authority and the Lincoln City Council. He was president of HBAL in 1961 and is a National Life Director of NAHB.

Congratulations, Joe!

Pictured: Nadine Condello, Joe Hampton and Jim Christo

Thank You!

A special thanks to Pioneer Printing, Inc. for supplying the invitations to Nadine’s Retirement Party. It was very much appreciated!

Member News | HBAL Mailbox

In Sympathy Our sympathy to H.J. Dutton, 1957 HBAL President, on the loss of his wife. Kathleen “Kay” Dutton, Lincoln, died at home April 30, 2011. Born, February 10, 1925, after her mother changed the car’s tire on the way to the Beatrice hospital, she was the only child of Ethel and Channing Lewis.

Survived by her husband, Harlan of 64 years; daughters, Jan, Sue, Amy, Sally; sons, Channing, Saeed; spouses Bob, Doug, Carla, Leo, Mark, Fariba and 11 fabulous grandchildren. Kay fiercely loved her children and her ever widening circle of friends and family.

Kay graduated high school in Wallace, received a teaching degree from Nebraska Wesleyan and a Masters in Psychology from UNL. She was the May Queen at NWU in spring of ‘46.

Hers was a full life of family, career, and adventures. She taught in a one-room school house near Imperial, Neb., placed children for adoption as a young social worker and worked 35 years at LPS as a school psychologist. Working was her pleasure and she retired at age 70. Her cup overflowed with reading, writing, playing bridge, entertaining and cooking. She kept a journal for 40 years and cooked for an “open table” for over 65 years.

Kay donated her body to UNMC.

HBAL Mailbox

Lois, The SCC-NAHB student chapter and I would like to thank you for inviting us to the April 11, 2011 Tribute to Youth meeting.

It helped the new officers to better know the members of HBAL and to learn what happens at the meetings. We all agreed it was a great meal. Everyone at the dinner enjoyed the guest speaker.

Once again, we would like to thank you for the wonderful meal for inviting the SCC-NAHB student chapter to the Tribute to Youth meeting.

Sincerely, Travis Kaslon Secretary SCC-NAHB Student Chapter

Merritt Sand & Gravel 402-435-3213 26th & Randolph Come Visit Our New Showroom Featuring

Natural Veneer Stone Custom Cuts & Blends Opening May 2011

Congratulations Amsley Senkbeil (Lincoln East) received the Myron Oehlerking Family Scholarship and the Brooke D. Roberts French Scholarship.

Amsley is the daughter of Brian and Rochelle Senkbeil, BK Restoration & Remodeling.

Ross Reynolds (Lincoln Southeast) received The Landing Scholarship.

Ross is the son of Roger & Sharla Reynolds, Reynolds Design & Remodeling.

Kayla Condello (Pius) received the Founders Award and will be attending Creighton this fall. Kayla is the granddaughter of Nadine and Frank Condello.

• Sand / Gravel • Rock / River Rock • Promix / Colored Cement • Flagstone / Wallstone • Crushed Concrete Fines • U-Kart Ready-Mix • Concrete Block • Mulch

Visit us at www.DHMerritt.com We provide quick delivery and quality service.

7  Lincoln Business Builder

The Winning Hand

Membership is like poker...

You have to PLAY to WIN!!

More information to come regarding our upcoming membership campaign. If you are interested helping HBAL’s membership grow, contact Jennie at 402-423-4225.

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8  Lincoln Business Builder

Mud Mats

Financial Column

Financial Reform: What It Is and Why It Matters to You Provided by John Oestreich, Waddell & Reed

The 2008 financial crisis was the most significant disruption of the global financial system since the Great Depression. It’s hardly surprising, then, that the legislation designed to address the problems that contributed to the crisis also is considered the most wide-ranging reform of the U.S. financial system since the 1930s.

Signed into law in July 2010, the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act is an attempt to tackle not only the way Wall Street functions, but issues that affect individual consumers and investors. Here’s a brief summary of some of the law’s key provisions.

Revised credit and lending practices

The legislation creates new mortgage lending rules intended to provide greater protection for borrowers. For example, for loans that don’t meet certain standards, lenders will have to verify whether, based on income, credit history, and other data, a borrower has a reasonable ability to repay a mortgage, including any associated taxes, insurance, and other costs. That could mean that self-employed people and others whose income is undocumented or irregular will need better documentation to qualify for a loan.

While these rules may limit the size of the mortgage you qualify for, they’re intended to prevent you from being steered into a loan that’s not suitable for you. Lenders can no longer provide mortgage originators and loan officers with financial incentives, such as higher commissions, for steering potential borrowers to a mortgage with a higher interest rate. Mortgage originators also must disclose any conflicts of interest and compare the costs and benefits of mortgages offered to a potential borrower.

Lenders are prohibited from refinancing an existing mortgage unless the new mortgage offers a net benefit to the borrower. And they also may not coerce or encourage an appraiser to make a faulty appraisal of a property’s value so the borrower may obtain a loan more easily. Borrowers are entitled to a copy of the lender’s appraisal of the property no later than three days prior to the closing.

There also are new limits on balloon payments and prepayment penalties, which must be disclosed, and mortgages without prepayment penalties must be offered as an alternative. And depending on the type of mortgage, a lender may be required to give you at least six months’ advance notice of any interest rate change.

Other consumer protection provisions

Under the law, a new Consumer Financial Protection Bureau will regulate consumer financial products issued by banks and other financial institutions, such as mortgages and private student loans. The bureau’s authority has been compared to the role of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in screening for harmful substances. In addition to serving as a consumer watchdog, the agency will give students access to information about private student loans.

During the financial crisis, the Federal Deposit Insurance Corp. (FDIC) temporarily increased from $100,000 to $250,000 the amount it will insure on deposit accounts in FDIC-insured banks. The $250,000 per-owner per-bank limit is now permanent. The way the limit is applied means that if you and your spouse each have separate deposit accounts as well as a single joint account at a single bank, the two of you could qualify for as much as $1 million worth of total FDIC protection for those accounts.

(Coverage for retirement accounts is separate.)

You also will be able to get your credit score for free if you have a negative credit experience--for example, if your score was a contributing factor when: You were turned down on an application for credit • • You were denied housing or a job • Your credit card company changed your credit terms

Limits on risky banking practices

Banks will be required to hold additional capital to cover potential losses, and some securities are no longer acceptable as vehicles for capital reserves held by large banks.

Financial institutions also will be required to retain a financial interest in at least 5% of the value of a loan they make if the loan is sold or repackaged with other loans and securitized. (However, some relatively low-risk mortgages, such as fully documented loans with a fixed interest rate, are exempted.)

Financial institutions will be more limited in their ability to engage in proprietary trading in their own accounts, which could represent a conflict of interest with their responsibility to their clients. They also will have to set up separate operations to handle their most risky derivatives trades, such as swaps. A bank will not be permitted to invest more than 3% of its core capital in hedge funds and private equity, but it may still organize and offer them as long as certain conditions are met.

Addressing systemic risk

A new Financial Stability Oversight Council is charged with assessing and managing risks that could threaten the entire U.S. financial system. Also, the FDIC will manage the liquidation of any financial institution whose failure the Treasury Secretary determines would disrupt the stability of that system. This can include firing corporate management responsible for the failure and prohibiting any payments to shareholders until all other claims are paid. The FDIC may borrow from an Orderly Liquidation Fund to pay for a liquidation, but those costs must be replenished not from taxpayer funds but from the assets of the bank or company, and, if necessary, assessments on large financial institutions. The law does not permit the Federal Reserve or the FDIC to lend to or provide a guarantee for individual or insolvent companies or banks, but both may lend funds to provide liquidity for multiple institutions.

In some cases, this far-reaching legislation’s impact will be felt only after regulations are developed to implement its provisions. That’s why it’s important to have someone help you monitor those regulations as they evolve and evaluate just how they might affect you. Don’t hesitate to seek expert advice.

The article is written by Forefield, Inc. but is provided by John W. Oestreich. It is meant to be used for informational purposes only and should not be construed as investment as investment advice. Please consult with your tax, legal and financial advisor prior to making financial decisions. ©2011 Forefield, Inc. All rights reserved. Waddell & Reed and Forefield are not affiliated companies.

John W. Oestreich is a Managing Principal with Waddell & Reed in Lincoln, NE, and can be reached at 402-484-7526. Waddell & Reed, Inc. Member FINRA and SIPC.

Greater transparency and accountability for investment-related services

Institutional investors’ inability to determine the amount of global financial exposure to derivatives--investments based on the value of other investments-- contributed to the panic at the height of the financial crisis. Over-the-counter derivatives must now be traded on a public exchange, and trades must be cleared through a registered clearinghouse.

Nonstandard derivatives can still be traded privately, but must be reported to a central authority in order to increase regulators’ ability to monitor the overall level of activity.

Hedge funds and private-equity advisors will be required to register with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and disclose to the commission information such as investment positions and the amount of leverage involved. Also, the $1 million minimum net worth required to be an accredited investor eligible to invest in such funds will no longer include the value of a principal residence, and that $1 million threshold will be reviewed every four years.

Credit rating firms, which were criticized for being too lax in their evaluations of securities based on subprime mortgages, will be subject to oversight by the SEC, which can fine firms that issue too many faulty ratings over time. Also, investors will now have the right to sue an agency for issuing ratings it knew or should have known were flawed.

Shareholders of public companies will have the right to a nonbinding vote on compensation for the company’s executives. Also, protections for people reporting securities law violations have been enhanced. Whistle-blowers with information that leads to monetary sanctions of more than $1 million will be eligible for 10% to 30% of the funds collected, and can sue more easily if an employer retaliates.

An Investor Advocate office will be established within the SEC to help individual investors resolve significant problems and to promote investor interests.

9  Lincoln Business Builder

Step by Step

Celebra 25 Yeating rs!

June Meeting Published by the Remodelers Council of Lincoln • June 2011

Chairperson’s Message

by Jenny Samek

Thank you to everyone who attended our May meeting and brought donations for the Matt Talbot Kitchen. The donations were greatly appreciated and the building is beautiful. It’s wonderful to see a historic landmark brought back to life.

Many of our members have been proactive about getting educated and certified to remodel pre-1978 homes containing lead paint. If you haven’t become certified, please do. If you are certified, please make sure you are following the correct procedures. The article on the next page came from the May 17 issue of ReNews from NAHB. In the article, NAHB advises remodelers to review the requirements of the lead regulation and use the resources available at www.nahb.org/leadpaint to prepare for compliance. The member-only tools include sample contract language, liability and insurance guidance, materials for educating consumers and more. Please take advantage of these tools provided to members.

Our next meeting is our Picnic in the Park on June 8th at Antelope Park. As the Remodelers Council of Lincoln is coming up on its 25th Anniversary in July, we’ll be recognizing the charter members at the picnic. Hope to see you there!

Tom Powell (Mid-Alliance Insurance Associates, LLC), Delrae Hirschman (Delrae Designs) and Mike Benker (HBAL) visit at the May meeting.

10  Lincoln Business Builder

Picnic in the Park June 8, 2011 11:30 a.m.

Antelope Park • Shelter #2 Lunch from Lee’s Chicken Cost $9/person Please send your RSVP to info@hbal.org or call 402-423-4225 by June 2.

TP Run!

Bring Toilet Paper, Toothbrushes, Soap, Other Necessities to HBAL through July 8 The Remodelers Council is having its fourth TP Run (Toilet Paper Run) to help the clients of the Community Mental Health Center (CMHC). These clients are on fixed incomes, and after rent and medical expenses, often are left with very little money for the basic necessities. And, with a decline in the amount of items given from the Center for People in Need, donations from the Remodelers Council of Lincoln are even more helpful than ever before.

Items that would be greatly appreciated by CMHC & its clients: • Toilet paper • Laundry soap • Shampoo • Toothpaste • Sanitary products for women • Bar soap for men • Bath gel soap for women • Cleaning supplies • Poly-grip Please pick up an extra roll of toilet paper or bar of soap on your next shopping trip, and drop it by the HBAL office before July 8. Thanks for helping to take care of our community!

Step by Step

EPA Takes Enforcement Action on Lead Rule A YouTube video of workers scraping paint from the siding of an old Maine home has led to an enforcement action under the Lead: Renovation, Repair, and Painting rule by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s Region I (New England) office.

Despite being an EPA-Certified Renovator, the contractor – Colin Wentworth of Rockland, Maine – failed to apply for firm certification and follow the work practices required in the regulation, such as posting warning signs, setting up plastic containment around work areas, collecting dust and debris, using high-speed scraping machines equipped with HEPA filters, and maintaining records to demonstrate compliance with the rule, EPA said. At least six children, one of whom was under six years old, lived in the four-unit building at the time of the project.

“It’s important that remodelers get trained and obtain certification from EPA, as well as follow the lead-safe work practices outlined in the rule to minimize exposing children to lead hazards,” said NAHB Remodelers Chairman Bob Peterson, CGR, CAPS, CGP, and president of Associates in Building & Design, Ltd. in Ft. Collins, CO. “NAHB has created resources for remodelers to help them comply with the rule and adapt their businesses accordingly.”

This is the first action brought regarding lead-safe work practice violations under the rule, which became effective a year ago. The maximum penalty for the alleged violations is $37,500 per violation, per day.

“It’s interesting to note that EPA chose to launch it’s enforcement program by taking action as a result of an anonymous public video posting,” said Amy Chai, senior counsel at NAHB. The specific fine for this enforcement action was not indicated, but the contractor could be liable for a maximum of $37,500 per violation, per day, according to the EPA. “Many renovation firms have done the right thing by becoming certified, sending their employees to training and following the appropriate, health-protective work practices. Enforcement of these rules is important to protecting children and the business interests of those contractors who are following the rule,” said Curt Spalding, the regional administrator of the EPA’s New England office (Region I), in a press release.

NAHB advises remodelers to review the requirements of the lead regulation and use the resources available at www.nahb.org/leadpaint to prepare for compliance. The member-only tools include sample contract language, liability and insurance guidance, materials for educating consumers and more.

Summary of the Lead Rule

Here’s a quick summary of the EPA lead paint rule.

1. Training and Certification

All firms working in pre-1978 homes need to be certified by the EPA. Firms need to complete the application for certification and submit a fee of $300.

Along with the firm certification, an employee will also need to be certified as a Certified Renovator. This employee will be responsible for training other employees and overseeing work practices and cleaning. The training curriculum is an eight-hour class with two hours of hands-on training. Find an approved trainer by searching the directory of EPA-approved training providers.

Both the firm and Certified Renovator certifications are valid for five years. A Certified Renovator must take a four-hour refresher course to be recertified.

2. Work Practices

Before work starts on a pre-1978 renovation, the Certified Renovator must educate residents by distributing the Renovate Right pamphlet, post warning signs outside the work area and supervise setting up containment to prevent spreading dust. The Certified Renovator must also be present during specific stages of the work.

The rule lists specific containment procedures for both interior and exterior projects. It forbids certain work practices including open flame or torch burning, use of a heat gun that exceeds 1100°F, and high-speed sanding and grinding unless the tool is equipped with a HEPA exhaust control. Once the work is completed, the regulation specifies cleaning and waste disposal procedures.

Clean-up procedures must be supervised by a Certified Renovator.

The EPA has a sample checklist for keeping records of required work practices.

3. Verification and Record Keeping

After clean up is complete, the Certified Renovator must verify the cleaning by matching a cleaning cloth with an EPA verification card. If the cloth appears dirtier or darker than the card, the cleaning must be repeated.

A complete file of records on the project must be kept by the certified renovator for three years. These records include: verification of owner/occupant receipt of the Renovate Right pamphlet or attempt to inform, documentation of work practices, Certified Renovator certification, and proof of worker training.

Remodelers are also required to share a copy of records developed under the rule requirements with the customer within 30 days of completing the remodeling work.

4. Exemptions

It is important to note that these work practices do not apply to residential structures or child-occupied facilities built after 1978, and some or all of the rule’s requirements may be waived if: • The repairs are minor, with interior work disturbing less than 6 square feet or exteriors disturbing less than 20 square feet being exempt.

• The house or components test lead-free by a Certified Risk Assessor, Lead Inspector, or Certified Renovator.

11  Lincoln Business Builder

Remodelers Council Golf Tournament

Lincoln Home Builders Care Foundation Scholarship Golf Tournament Friday, August 5, 2011 Registration: 9:00 - 10:00

Shotgun Start immediately following registration

Hidden Valley Golf Course 10501 Pine Lake Road

$65 per golfer • 4-Person Scramble Friday, August 5, 2011 promises to be another day of fun, friendship and competition.

Please join us for the 19th Annual Remodelers Council Golf Tournament. The tournament is open to all HBAL members, Remodelers Council members, spouses and guests.

• Check-in: 9:00 - 10:00 • The tournament format is 18 holes, 4-person scramble.

• Shotgun start.

• Tournament is limited to 36 foursomes.

• Hamburgers & hot dogs will be served all day.

• This will be a handicapped event. Flights will be determined based on a 9 hole score randomly selected.

• $65 includes golf, cart, food & prizes.

• Prizes awarded in the banquet room upstairs following the tournament.

Sponsorship!!! If you are interested in sponsoring a hole or contributing to the Scholarship Golf Tournament, call the HBAL office at 402-423-4225. The cost to sponsor a hole is $100. All sponsors will be listed in the Lincoln Business Builder and a sign will be posted at the golf tournament.

To sign up, you may fax (402-423-4251) or mail this form to HBAL…or call (402-423-4225).

Remodelers Council Scholarship Golf Tournament Registration If you are interested in a designated foursome, please register all four players together. If not, you will be assigned a team.

1st Player ___________________________Company _______________________________________________ 2nd Player __________________________Company _______________________________________________ 3rd Player ___________________________Company _______________________________________________ 4th Player ___________________________Company _______________________________________________ Enclosed is $_________ for_____ players.

Make checks payable to Lincoln Home Builders Care Foundation.

Prepayment is required to play.

Fax this form to HBAL at 402-423-4251.

Or send it to: Lincoln Home Builders Care Foundation • 6100 S. 58th Street, Suite C • Lincoln, NE 68516

12  Lincoln Business Builder

Bob Nohavec Plumbing

420-1552

Service • Remodeling • New Construction Free Estimates Bob Nohavec, Master Plumber 3400 S. 6th Street, Lincoln, NE 68502

A & D Auto-Truck Service

“Your Total Vehicle Service & Repair Center”

Special discount for HBAL Members!

10% discount on a service or repair First-time customers only.

“We Specialize in Fleet Service and Repair.”

Open: Monday-Friday 6:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m.

Phone: 464-3211 5940 Colfax Avenue

13  Lincoln Business Builder

Nadine’s Retirement Party

Thanks for the Memories!

Nadine pictured with the current and past presidents: Greg Schwinn, John Hoppe, Jr., Joe McKee, Mike Rezac, John Kramer, Lois Hartzell, Roger Reynolds, Ken Westerhold, Nadine, Don Rowe, Greg Shinaut, Rick Krueger, Bob Stephens, Mike Benker, Jim Christo, Sam Manzitto, Mike Goings, Steve Fulton, Dick Robison, Joe Hampton, Dan Kubr and Donn Mann

p Nadine holds up the quilt signed by hundreds of her friends and family who attended the party. She also received an Anne Burkholder painting of the Republican River not far from her hometown.

The party would not have been complete without an appearance from Karnak the Magnificent!

t Current HBAL Staff: Jennie Korth, Mike Benker, Nadine and Kayla Harrison Donna and Katie Shinaut u performed their own versions of Goodbye Again, Come Sail Away and Girls Just Want to Have Fun as a tribute to Nadine.

14 ď ´ Lincoln Business Builder

Nadine’s Retirement Party

So, Call Me Lucky!

To My HBAL Friends, I often say to myself “I’m the luckiest person I know.” Being able to work with all the g reat folks who belong to HBAL was a wonderful experience and I’ve stored up memories during the last 24 years to last a lifetime.

To those who attended my retirement party, a g reat big thanks. It was a very special event in my life. I’d also like to thank everyone who planned it and had a part in the prog ram. It was funny as well as being very sentimental.

I look forward to che ering from the sidelines as HBAL continues to become an even g reater association. I’ll be praying that residential construction in Lincoln picks up so you can go back to doing what you do best . . . building homes for families.

Thanks for allowing me to be part of HBAL! Nadine

15  Lincoln Business Builder

Spike Club: Questions & Answers

Questions & Answers What are the benefits of becoming a Spike?

The real benefits are intangible—you will be recognized for your contributions to the association and regarded as an accomplished and connected member. Additionally, Spikes receive: • A coveted invitation to the biggest party of the year, the Spike Party/Directors Reception at the International Builders Show* • Increased visibility, recognition, and networking opportunities at industry events • Unique and valuable rewards for each level of achievement, including lapel pins, plaques, trophies, wearables, jewelry, and more • Additional VIP treatment throughout the year *Invitations are sent only to eligible Spikes who have at least 6 credits and one new member recruitment credit between January 1 and October 31. The recruitment credit may be composed of one full credit received when a new Builder or Associate member is recruited or two ½ credits received when Affiliate or Council members are recruited.

16  Lincoln Business Builder

How do I become a Spike?

Before becoming a Spike, you are a Spike candidate. That means you have earned between one and five Spike credits. Once you earn your sixth Spike credit, you become an official NAHB Spike!* Spike credits are earned by recruiting and retaining NAHB and Council members.

To retain your status as a Spike you must earn a minimum of one Spike credit (new or retention) each year until you reach a total of 25 credits, at which point you are elevated to Life Spike status. *Providing you have earned those six credits within two consecutive membership years.

How do I earn Spike credits?

Members earn one Spike credit for each new member they sponsor.

When that member renews after his or her first year of membership the sponsoring member automatically gets one retention credit.

Every year the member renews thereafter, the sponsoring member will receive a ½ renewal credit.

Spike Club: Current Standings

Spike Standings As of April 30, 2011

Spike Candidates 1-5 Paul Andringa Mark Bartolome Dave Bayne Brad Becker Jeremy Bishoff Justin Brandt Bob Bryant Brian Buda Roger Bumgarner Bob Campbell Steve Champoux Blake Collingsworth Mike Heath Delrae Hirschman Mark Hunzeker Don Johnson Ken Jones Joette Kapke Lynn Kleeb Lorele Lesoing Dan Loeck Michael May Mike McGill Nick Meinke Brandon Nelson John Oestreich Brock Peters Cindy Reed Bill Richter Lance Roach Bob Ruskamp Ted Scott Brian Senkbeil Jeff Sneller Lyle Thompson Ken Westerhold Jeff White

2.00 1.00 1.50 2.00 4.00 1.00 3.00 1.00 1.00 2.50 1.50 1.00 2.50 3.00 1.00 2.00 1.00 1.00 1.50 1.00 1.00 3.00 1.00 2.50 3.00 1.00 0.50 2.00 3.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.75 3.00 0.75 0.50 2.00

Blue Spike 6-24 Lea Barker Thomas Barrett Perry Haralson Duane Hartman Molly Johnson Mike Kinning Dan Klein, Sr. Matt Kleinschmit Steve Kunkel Sam Manzitto, Jr. Vladimir Oulianov Robert Rentfro Ed Ring Jenny Samek

8.00 8.00 8.50 22.50 8.00 15.50 6.00 12.00 15.50 16.50 7.50 23.50 7.00 7.75

Red Spike 100-149 Mike Benker Jerry Boyce Sheri Jansky Greg Schwinn Greg Shinaut

122.50 103.50 110.00 141.75 134.50

Royal Spike 150-249

306.25 372.50 319.25 398.50 488.50 266.00

design • copy • print

Green Spike 50-99 81.50 85.50 92.75 79.00 57.00 79.75 51.75 68.25 79.25 65.00 58.50 75.75

Steve Fulton Bob Gabriel John Hoppe, Jr. Sam Manzitto Joe McKee Roger Reynolds

197.50 Statesman Spike 228.25 500-999 204.75 Jim Christo 510.25 172.25 Jim Crawford 636.50 194.25 178.75 162.25 192.25 230.75 230.50

Allen Barber Mike Goings Duane Helmink Rick Krueger Dan Kubr Jo Lewis Erin Magnussen Donn Mann Life Spike 25-49 Bob Stephens Mark Aksamit 34.00 Tom Trainor Joe Hampton 37.25 Jeff Johnson 31.00 Justin Johnson 29.50 Mary Kinning 26.75 Jeff Mann 42.00 Don Rowe 49.25 Connie Strohmyer 28.75 Lois Hartzell Eric Hoke Fred Hoppe Robert Knuth Bob Marshall Robert Peterson Lori Pippitt Herb Reese Mike Rezac Margaret Schultz Robert Schultz Ken Westerhold

Super Spike 250-499

3133 S. 7th, Suite D Lincoln, NE 68502

483-7575

Fax (402) 483-7577

Call us for your design, copy & print needs Multi Color Printing

Engineering Copies

Direct-to-Plate

Graphic Design

Digital Color Copying

Bindery Services

Digital Black & White

Free Pick-up & Delivery

info@pioneerprintinginc.com www.pioneerprintinginc.com

Serving Lincoln for more than 30 years!

17  Lincoln Business Builder

Advertise With Us!

Advertise With Us!

HBAL offers a variety of advertising opportunities.

Contact the HBAL office at 402-423-4225 for more information about advertising.

Lincoln Business Builder

Fall Parade of Homes

This monthly publication goes out to 750+ members of the building community in and around Lincoln.

Advertising starts at $37/month.

Thousands of Guidebooks are distributed to visitors during each Parade of Homes.

Advertising starts at $310.

www.HBAL.org

HBAL Membership Directory

Participate in HBAL’s online advertising program to attract qualified visitors to your website! Our banner program can help you reach Lincoln consumers looking for remodeling and home building suppliers and service providers.

Advertising starts at $25/month.

The Membership Directory and Buyers Guide provides quick contact information for our members.

Advertising starts at $125.

All prices are subject to change.

Thanks for your business!

2011 Spring Parade of Homes Guidebook Advertisers 2K Landscape Designs American Electronics, Inc. Aspen Builders, Inc. Baltazar’s Masonry & Construction Services L.L.C. BancWise Realty Black Hills Energy Bob Nohavec Plumbing, Inc. Bonsall Pool & Spa Briggs, Inc. of Lincoln Broadcast House Builders Achieving Excellence Cameron Townhomes, LLC Campbell’s Nurseries & Garden Center Cornhusker Bank Eric’s Electric, Inc. Ferguson Bath, Kitchen and Lighting Gallery Frontier Bank Fulton Construction, Inc. Great Western Bank HS Bank Heritage Builders, Inc. Heritage Lakes Home Design Center Home Real Estate Home Real Estate (Pat Mooberry) HomeServices Lending, LLC Ironwood Builders Krueger Development Lewis Homes 18  Lincoln Business Builder

Lincoln Electric System Liberty First Credit Union Lincoln Federal Savings Bank Lincoln Title Manzitto Bros. Residential & Commercial Construction Millard Lumber, Inc. Moser Well Drilling & Service, Inc. Mutual of Omaha Bank NEBCO Realty Group/Fallbrook Sales & Development Nebraska Bank of Commerce Nebraska Investment Finance Authority (NIFA) Nebraska Title Co. NSHBA-Green Build Council Pinnacle Bank Realtors Association of Lincoln Rezac Construction, Inc. Schaefer ’s, Inc. Schultz Construction South Shore Builders, LLC Union Bank & Trust Co. Vantage Pointe Homes, Inc. Wells Fargo Home Mortgage West Gate Bank Wilderness Construction, Inc. Wolfe Electric Co., Inc. Woods Bros. Realty Woods Bros. Realty (Darlene Starman) Yankee Hill Brick & Tile Company

Builder and Banker?

You shouldn’t have to be both. Partner with Cornhusker Bank and get the financial tools you need.

• Latest construction market statistics to help you succeed • Local decisions on residential and commercial construction loans • Pre-sold, spec, lot, and development products Perry Haralson, Vice President 434-9337 • 11th & Cornhusker

• Mini-permanent and extended lock programs to help manage interest rate risk

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Lincoln's Official Web Site Directory

Mike Barrett, Vice President 434-2258 • 56th & South St.

SM

www.citygold.com www.CornhuskerBank.com

Member FDIC

Phone: (402) 420-9800 • E-mail: info@citygold.com

Camherdz Services Corporation Painting

Interior, Exterior, Commercial, Residential New, Repaint

Decks

Power Washing, Staining

Floors

Sealers, Epoxies, Urethanes

E S FRE ALWAY ES AND AT ESTIM RDABLE AFFO INTING PA ELITE SERVICE R AT YOU

Specialty Coatings

To include Epoxies and Urethanes on walls

Hector Hernandez 2240 S. 46th Street Phone: (402) 580-0870 Fax: (402) 438-6937 Lincoln, NE 68506 Email: camherdzsvcs@neb.rr.com 19  Lincoln Business Builder

Directory Changes | Renewals | Cancellations

Directory Changes Address Changes • New address for Great Lakes Window & Siding is 14690 Galaxie Avenue, Ste. 100, Apple Valley, MN 55124-8522.

• New address for Nebraskland Steel Products is P.O. Box 29227, Lincoln, NE 68529-0227.

• New address for BancWise Realty, LLC is 6120 Apple’s Way, Lincoln, NE 68516-3501.

Company Changes • Vance Springer is the new affiliate member at Union Agency, Inc. Phone: 402-484-3827.

Email: vance.springer@unionagency.com.

• Lori Pippitt, CKD, CGR, CAPS is the new principal member at Lincoln Cabinet. Heidi Melvin is the new affiliate member. Email: hmelvin@lincolncabinet.com.

• Manzitto Bros. Residential & Commercial Construction is no longer a Remodelers Council member.

• Larry Melichar is a new affiliate member under Woods Bros. Realty. Address: 3355 Orwell Street, Lincoln, NE 68516. Cellular: 402-616-0003.

Email: larry.melichar@homeservices.com.

Moving?

Thanks for Renewing Your Membership!

(Please allow 60 days for names to appear on this list.)

A & D Auto Truck Service, 30 years A Pause for Paws, 2 years Artz & Sons Construction, 10 years BAJCO Construction, 2 years Carpetland, 23 years CKF - Consolidated Kitchens, 13 years Drywall Supply, Inc., 17 years Electrical Enterprises, Inc., 23 years The Frontier Group, 2 years Gehle Construction, 2 years Harley’s Heating & A/C, Inc., 38 years Interiors Joan and Associates, 4 years Ironwood Builders, 4 years Landscape Curbing of Lincoln, Inc., 7 years Lincoln Winlectric, 6 years Lincoln Housing Authority, 16 years Lyle’s Drywall Service, Inc., 9 years Natural Light Co., 16 years Nebraska Land Title & Abstract, 17 years NECO Security, 5 years Pro Drywall, Inc., 6 years Seal-Rite Insulation, Inc., 11 years Signature Homes, LLC, 2 years Sticks & Stones Hardscapes, Inc., 5 years Timber Ridge Homes, 3 years Waddell & Reed, 12 years Window Option Specialists, 14 years Wolf Professional Realty, PC, 1 year

Sorry to See You Go! If you see your company listed below, contact HBAL at 402-423-4225 to renew your membership TODAY!

Be sure to contact the HBAL Office at

402-423-4225

to update your contact information.

20  Lincoln Business Builder

DSI Door & Hardware Designworks Interior Design Group Eakes Office Plus A Home of Your Own Midtown Body & Paint Rezac Concrete WHdigital, Inc. Windstream

When it comes to mid-sized skid steers, speed equals productivity, and you were fast to ask for more of both. Now you have it at the push of a button, with the new two-speed option on the John Deere 318D and 320D Skid Steers. Top speed is now 11 miles per hour, allowing you to make quick work of light hauling and snow removal, as well as moving from one site to another.

So no matter what your job is, if you would like to do it up to 60% faster, see us today.

Productivity? Uptime? Low Daily Operating Costs? We’re On It.™

www.murphytractor.com 21  Lincoln Business Builder

Job Safety and Health: IT’S THE LAW!

Job Safety and Health IT’S THE LAW! EMPLOYEES: • You have the right to notify your employer or OSHA about workplace hazards. You may ask OSHA to keep your name confidential.

• You have the right to request an OSHA inspection if you believe that there are unsafe and unhealthful conditions in your workplace. You or your representative may participate in that inspection.

• You can file a complaint with OSHA within 30 days of retaliation or discrimination by your employer for making safety and health complaints or for exercising your rights under the OSH Act. • You have a right to see OSHA citations issued to your employer. Your employer must post the citations at or near the place of the alleged violation.

• Your employer must correct workplace hazards by the date indicated on the citation and must certify that these hazards have been reduced or eliminated.

• You have the right to copies of your medical records or records of your exposure to toxic and harmful substances or conditions.

• Your employer must post this notice in your workplace.

• You must comply with all occupational safety and health standards issued under the OSH Act that apply to your own actions and conduct on the job.

EMPLOYERS: • You must furnish your employees a place of employment free from recognized hazards.

• You must comply with the occupational safety and health standards issued under the OSH Act. This free poster is available from OSHA or can be printed at http://www.osha.gov/Publications/osha3165.pdf. HBAL does have a limited supply available

at the office.

Free assistance in identifying and correcting hazards or complying with standards is available to employers, without citation or penalty, through OSHAsupported consultation programs in each state.

In Nebraska, contact: Eldon Diedrichs Nebraska Department of Labor Phone: (402) 471-4717 Email: eldon.diedrichs@nebraska.gov 1-800-321-OSHA www.osha.gov 22  Lincoln Business Builder

HBAL Library Did you know HBAL has a variety of books and videos available for our members to check out? Some of the books and videos include Fall Protection Safety, Green Building and more!

We also have a variety of other resources available. They include: Residential Builder Contracts Residential Fall Protection Plan Template Residential Construction Performance Guidelines Your New Home and How to Take Care of It Contact the HBAL Office at 402-423-4225 for more information.

Almost Any Brick You Use Can Last for Hundreds of Years.

So Be Particular.

Y

ANKEE HILL BRICK manufactures the highest quality FBX brick in a color palette ranging from the traditional reds and buffs to the innovative pinks, maroons, and lavenders.

Standard and custom color ranges, sizes, and shapes are our specialty.

Brick murals and ornamentation are brought to a new level of sophistication at Yankee Hill Brick.

Rely on Yankee Hill to supply your project with the nest of materials.

3705 S. Coddington Lincoln, NE 68522

(402) 477-6663

Face brick Paving brick

Thin brik veneer Pool Coping Ceramic tile and marble Keystones Address & entry signs Brick mural & ornamentation Crushed landscape brick

4212 S. 133rd Street Omaha, NE 68137

(402) 330-2751

Safety Tip

Safety Tip of the Month: Basic Electrical Safety There are some basic rules even non-electricians should know to stay safe when using electricity.

The basics of electricity are voltage, current and resistance.

Voltages cause the current — or amperage — to flow, and resistance is what slows or stops the flow.

It is the amount of current and the resistance that make electricity so dangerous.

The human body does not provide much resistance to these hazards, so workers need to make sure they are guarded against electricity.

One of the easiest ways to protect against electrical shock is to avoid electricity altogether.

If someone is working with electricity nearby, keep as much distance away as possible. Stay away from the temporary power pole and breaker boxes when they are being installed. The only ones near it should be electricians, who are specially trained to handle electrical hazards.

In most cases there is no reason for a construction worker to be near live electrical parts; they should stay clear of these hazards. Even the smallest openings to energized equipment can be harmful.

When working near live parts in the junction box or near the circuit breakers, workers should be sure all the openings are covered and the knock outs are in place.

Knock out plugs should cover all conduit and breaker openings, and

there should be covers on all breaker and junction boxes. If there isn’t a cover, when working near the live parts making sure the equipment is guarded is an important safety concern.

Workers should keep an eye out for exposed parts when the electrician is doing his job and during the drywalling stages of construction.

Something as simple as an uncovered receptacle can lead to injuries.

Leave the Ground Prong On

The third prong on an extension cord and tools is designed for protection. If its third — or ground — prong is clipped off, a tool or extension cord can no longer be grounded.

If a cord or tool has had the prong clipped, it needs to be removed from service until it can be repaired or replaced. Even more importantly, workers should never use a broken cord.

A tool needs to be double-insulated, as indicated on its side. Doubleinsulated tools don’t need a ground prong to provide protection, but an adapter may be needed for them to fit into an extension cord.

A two-prong plug does not automatically mean it is doubleinsulated; this should be verified by checking on the tool.

Tools also need to be protected from water and other elements that can cause electrical hazards.

The wiring in the house also needs to be protected the right way. Wiring is installed by the electrician so that it will not get cut. However, if a worker accidentally cuts a wire or notices a damaged wire in the house, they should make sure that it is properly repaired immediately.

This will help protect workers on the site and the home buyers. The electrician will be notified and will come and repair the break — eliminating the risk of someone being exposed to damaged wiring that could have been repaired quickly and easily.

Workers need to make electrical safety one of their first goals for a safe job site.

For more information, email Marcus Odorizzi at modorizzi@nahb.org, or call him at 800-368-5242 x8590.

Help Make Job Site Safety a Priority With Video From NAHB BuilderBooks

When it comes to cabinetry, Millard Lumber offers a vast and diverse selection. Whether it’s a color, finish, or look, Millard Lumber has the solution to any builder or contractors needs. Stop by our Design Center today for design assistance and free estimates. Millard Lumber also offers installation for all cabinets and hardware.

11200 N. 148th St., Waverly NE

402.786.3030

M-F 7:30am - 5pm

The “Jobsite Safety Video,” available through NAHB BuilderBooks, is the first-ever job site safety video for home builders.

The video provides an overview of the key safety issues that residential builders and workers need to focus on to reduce accidents and injuries.

Based on the NAHB-OSHA Jobsite Safety Handbook, this DVD is intended to be used as part of an essential residential construction safety-training program and includes two 20-minute videos on one DVD. To view or purchase this DVD online, go to www.hbal.org, click on Books for Builders at the bottom of the page and search for “Jobsite Safety Video.”

23  Lincoln Business Builder

National Home Ownership Month

Your Hometown Source For • House Beams • Columns • Brick Lintels • Joists & Deck • Miscellaneous Plate, Angle, Pipe & Tubing

APOLLO STEEL COMPANY Fabricating The Future of Nebraska 7200 Amanda Road, Lincoln, NE 68507 Phone: 402-466-8587 • Fax: 402-466-0594

24  Lincoln Business Builder

National Home Ownership Month Homeownership is an important part of the American way of life, and there may never be a better time to buy than today.

Even without the first-time and repeat buyer federal tax credits, there are still many incredible opportunities in today’s housing market, including ample inventory, attractive pricing, near-record low interest rates, tax

incentives and more.

Share the two articles on the following page with your customers, friends and family and explain the benefits of homeownership!

A Home Is A Family’s Best Investment

National Home Ownership Month

New Homes Benefit More Than Just Buyers and Builders The only people who benefit when a house is built are the family members who get to live there, and the builder who constructed and sold the home, right?

Wrong. The positive impact of new residential construction is far-reaching, bringing benefits to families, businesses and services throughout a community immediately, as well as for years to come.

According to economists at the National Association of Home Builders, the one-year estimated local impacts of building 100 single-family homes in a typical metro area include $21.1 million in local income, $2.2 million in taxes and other local government revenue, and 324 local jobs.

But what does that economic impact mean in the real, day-to-day lives of community residents?

Just think about it. When a family moves to a community and buys a new house, they will likely shop at local stores to buy furniture and accessories to decorate the home. They will fill their car’s gas tank at local gas stations so they can get to the stores, have local mechanics work on the car when it breaks down or needs the oil changed, or buy a new car at a local dealer when it’s time to replace the old one.

The family may need to hire local companies for regular services to maintain their home, such as landscaping, house cleaning, pet sitters or pool upkeep.

The children will enroll in local schools. This increases enrollment, meaning more teachers, janitors, cafeteria workers and other school support staff will need to be hired. Those kids will also join sports leagues and other activities, buy equipment and pay registration fees that provide stipends for referees and coaches.

All of this economic activity puts income into the pockets of local business owners and their families, who can then afford to go out and spend money themselves, which recycles even more money into the community’s economy.

The new family also pays local and state taxes. These tax revenues help pay for a wide range of government services, including school teachers, police departments, refuse collection, parks maintenance and road repairs.

Over the long term, as the families who move into new homes become part of the community, their positive impact continues.

NAHB estimates that those 100 new homes also provide the community with additional, annually-recurring impacts of $3.1 million in local income, $743,000 in taxes and other revenue for local governments, and 53 local jobs.

Families who buy a newly built home enjoy benefits including safety, amenities, energy efficiency and floor plans to fit a modern lifestyle. But the advantages of new homes extend far beyond the buyers and the builders—residential construction has a positive, direct impact on the local community for years.

The Not-So-Obvious Benefits of Buying New Prospective home buyers have the choice of two types of houses on the market: resale or new.

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.

But builders say that buyers can be drawn to a new house for reasons that aren’t so obvious. Below are a few more benefits of a brand-new home that you may not see in the sales brochure.

Building a Community Together A brand-new community is one of the built-in benefits of many new homes. When families move in to a subdivision at the same time, often lasting bonds of friendship and neighborliness are formed right away. Nobody is the “new kid on the block,” and many home builders host community block parties in new developments to help owners meet and connect. Popular amenities like pools, walking trails and courts for tennis and basketball offer additional opportunities for interaction among neighbors of all ages. Often new communities are comprised of home owners in the same stage of life, such as young families or active retirees, so neighbors can get to know each other through carpools, PTA meetings, tennis matches or golf games.

Entertaining Throwing a party in an older home can be a challenge because smaller, distinct rooms make it difficult to entertain guests in one large space. Builders are responding to today’s home buyer preferences with layouts featuring more open spaces and rooms that flow into each other more easily, like the popular great room. While you are in the kitchen preparing dinner, you can still interact with

guests enjoying conversation in the family room without feeling closed off. The feeling of spaciousness in today’s new-home layouts often is enhanced the higher ceilings and additional windows that bringing in more light than you would find in an older home.

A Clean Slate For some buyers, parking the car in a sparkling-clean garage or being the first to cook a dinner in a brand-new kitchen is part of the appeal of new construction. In addition, you won’t have to spend time stripping dated wallpaper or repainting to suit your own sense of style. You can create your own home décor from the get-go!

The advantages of being the first owner of a home extend to the outdoors. Instead of inheriting inconveniently or precariously placed trees, or having to tear up overgrown shrubs, you can design and plant the lawn and garden you want.

Outlets, Outlets Everywhere!

Homes built in the 1960’s and earlier were wired much differently than houses today. Builders had no way of anticipating the invention of high-definition televisions, DVRs and computers that we enjoy today — and the very different electrical requirements they would introduce. New homes can accommodate advanced technologies like structured wiring, security systems and sophisticated lighting plans, and can be tailored to meet the individual home owner’s needs.

Anyone who has ever lived in an older home can also attest to the fact that there are never enough outlets, inside or out! New-home builders plan for the increased number and type of electronics and appliances used by today’s families, so you can safely operate a wine cooler, Christmas lights or your computer.

25  Lincoln Business Builder

Building Permit Update Building Permits City of Lincoln - 10 -Year Table SF=detached single family - TH=townhouses - MF=multi-family (including duplexes)

Jan. Feb. March April YTD

2002 SF TH MF 69 14 81 108 9 6 93 23 2 102 22 14 372 68 103

SF 98 103 136 145 482

2003 TH MF 8 4 33 2 24 90 26 4 91 100

2004 SF TH 74 8 73 9 137 18 124 22 408 57

MF 5 24 20 0 49

SF 54 66 92 80 292

2005 TH 21 10 11 16 58

MF 0 4 4 4 12

SF 72 58 82 91 303

2006 TH 14 20 17 16 67

MF 0 2 16 60 78

SF 40 35 59 61 195

2007 TH MF 8 4 4 12 40 112 70 66 122 194

SF 35 22 41 50 148

2008 TH 19 0 28 2 49

MF 6 4 2 2 14

SF 11 29 30 30 100

2009 TH 14 2 14 14 44

MF 0 3 2 15 20

SF 24 32 42 33 131

2010 TH 7 18 6 8 39

MF 2 60 8 0 70

SF 22 26 42 28 118

2011 TH MF 0 4 0 20 10 180 26 3 36 207

Remodeling Permits: Additions City of Lincoln - Detached Single Family - 8 - Year Table 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 # Cost # Cost # Cost # Cost # Cost Jan. 13 177,199 8 119,859 19 333,000 7 87,400 9 1,364,460 Feb. 11 331,083 14 180,030 13 426,676 4 314,300 9 141,600 March 43 704,532 36 382,380 34 613,750 33 1,283,155 36 589,154 April 72 688,396 80 948,241 52 560,472 56 539,511 62 1,208,366 Total 139 1,901,210 138 1,630,510 118 1,933,898 100 2,224,366 116 3,303,580 Avg. Cost 13,678 11,815 16,389 22,244 28,479

2009 2010 2011 Cost # Cost # Cost 2 52,000 6 152,980 3 80,100 5 125,240 3 99,500 7 178,700 10 206,900 11 317,000 18 452,005 10 198,413 19 706,474 15 908,366 27 582,553 39 1,275,954 43 1,619,171 21,576 32,717 37,655

#

Remodeling Permits: Alterations City of Lincoln - Detached Single Family - 8 - Year Table 2004 Cost 66 699,013 71 731,756 102 923,393 110 1,331,907 349 3,686,069 10,562

# Jan. Feb. March April Total Avg. Cost

# 68 67 109 99 343

2005 Cost 774,591 910,004 1,213,341 883,165 3,781,101 11,024

# 89 87 100 87 363

2006 Cost 1,007,372 967,125 1,147,674 706,214 3,828,385 10,547

# 88 78 107 88 361

2007 2008 Cost # Cost 1,163,863 81 907,619 909,207 76 947,505 1,280,089 89 800,412 1,031,776 82 877,275 4,384,935 328 3,532,811 12,147 10,771

# 71 76 72 85 304

2009 Cost 784,232 706,588 946,927 813,112 3,250,859 10,694

2010 Cost 57 502,454 69 600,743 125 1,229,150 154 1,386,859 405 3,719,206 9,183

#

2011 Cost 69 988,395 79 893,584 104 900,086 133 1,292,245 385 4,074,310 10,583

#

West Gate Bank is Lincoln’s Bank

for Mortgage and

Construction Loans

Scott Williamson

Susan Bredthauer

Adam Flanagan

Vice President Mortgage Lender 323-6521

Vice President Mortgage Lender 434-3473

Construction Lender 323-8968

Whether you’re building, buying, or refinancing, choose West Gate Bank for your home loan. Contact one of West Gate Bank’s experienced lenders or go to www.westgatebank.com to get started on your home loan today. www.westgatebank.com | 434-3456 | member FDIC | Equal Housing Lender

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Lance Roach

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ENERGY STAR homes are a win, win, win proposition. ®

Homebuyers win because ENERGY STAR homes are more efficient, more comfortable and the lower costs of ownership allow them to put more money into their homes. Builders win because ENERGY STAR homes are more profitable to build. And the more we conserve, the more we all win. To learn more, contact Bob Ruskamp at 473-3275 or bruskamp@les.com.

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