2015 July Plains Builder by Home Builders Association of F-M

PLAINS

BUILDER A magazine for HBA of F-M members | www.hbafm.com | July 2015

SEE PAGE 30-31 FOR MORE ON SCOUT & PIPER!

OCT 3-4

See Page 34 for details

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PLAINS

Home Builders Association of Fargo-Moorhead 1802 32nd Avenue South Fargo, ND 58103 Phone: (701) 232-5846 Fax: (701) 280-1108 www.hbafm.com info@hbafm.com Publisher Bryce Johnson Editor Krista Mund Coordination, Design and Production Chelsea Smith

The Plains Builder is published 12 times per year by the Home Builders Association of F-M 1802 32nd Avenue South Fargo, ND 58103 It is mailed or emailed to all members of the HBA of F-M Address editorial inquiries to Home Builders Association of Fargo-Moorhead 1802 32nd Avenue South Fargo, ND 58103 Phone: (701) 232-5846 Fax: (701) 280-1108 info@hbafm.com Subscription rate for members is $15, which is included in annual dues The Home Builders Association does not accept responsibility for or endorse any statements or claims made by advertisers or authors of any articles ASSOCIATION STAFF Executive Vice President Bryce Johnson Director of Development & Education Jenny Erickson Communications Manager Krista Mund Director of Accounting & Records Amanda Ohlsen Communications & Office Coordinator Chelsea Smith Membership & Marketing Coordinator Allison Weckman

2015 HBA of F-M Executive Committee and Board of Directors President and National Director Clay Dietrich , Dietrich Homes, Inc. President Elect and National Director Tom Spaeth, Accent Contracting Treasurer Tyrone Leslie, Heritage Homes Associate Vice President and National Director John Koerselman, Red River Drywall & Painting Services, Inc. Secretary Paul Krabbenhoft, Coldwell Banker First Realty Past President and National Director Carlita Dietz, Jay Dietz Construction, Inc. Directors Jason Eid, Eid-Co Buildings, Inc. Harry Gilbertson, Harry Gilbertson Construction Darrick Guthmiller (National Director), Kochmann Brothers Homes, Inc. Ursula Hegvik, Smart Spaces, Inc. Kimberly Krueger Tehan, Krueger Construction, Inc. Terry Lipp, Ferguson Bath, Kitchen & Lighting Showroom Sylvia Lunski, Design Direction, Inc. Dustin Murray, Dustin Murray Construction Gary Orth, Cornerstone Specialties, Inc. Todd Rasmussen, Valley Lights Broc Roberson, Stone Ridge Builders, Inc. Robin Swanson, Superior Insurance Ex-officios to the board of directors Senior Life Director Gerald Eid, Eid-Co Buildings, Inc. Life Director and NDAB State Representative John Gunkelman, Dakota Construction of Fargo, Inc.

Life Director and NDAB Associate National Director Ken Krajsa, Bell State Bank & Trust Life Director and NDAB Treasurer Dan Lindquist, Dan Lindquist Construction, Inc. Life Directors Don Dabbert, Jr., Dabbert Custom Homes, Inc. John Mahan, Mahan Construction, Inc.

BUILDER FEATURES 8

Basement Construction in Fargo: Wall Bracing Specs Now Available From HBA

HBA Works to Help Builders with Projects in Oxbow after Judge Issues Injunction

HBA leaders Head to the Nationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Capitol for Spring Board of Directors Meeting

19 Students Complete the Herdina Academy for the Construction Trades

DEPARTMENTS 5 News Briefs

6 Letter From the HBA of F-M President

12 Letter from the North

Dakota Association of Builders

14 Letter from the

Builders Association of Minnesota

Letter From the HBC Foundation President

NEWS BRIEFS The second quarter permit report will be included as an insert in next month’s issue of the Plains Builder.

Hires & Promotions

Chelsey Matter has been promoted to director of provider partnerships at Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Dakota. She joined BCBSND in 2011 as a network engagement business partner in provider networks. She was promoted to manager of practice transformation in 2013. Braaten Cabinets hired Michael Rohr as a sales manager for both the Fargo and Grand Forks showrooms. He started June 3. Beth Hatch has been hired as a salesperson working out of Braaten’s Fargo showroom. “We are excited to welcome both new team members to our organization,” says Ray Otterson, president of Braaten Cabinets. Cable One Business has hired Jay Macleod as the business sales manager, Jeanna Yaggie and John Koch as business account executives and Wade Tufte as a business sales engineer. Kari Grafstrom and Michael Lindberg have joined Cornerstone Bank as mortgage loan processors. Ben Armbrust has joined Dawson Insurance, Fargo, as a commercial lines adviser. Sandy Anderson has been hired as an account manager for the DJ Colter American Family Insurance Agency. Anderson has extensive experience in the insurance industry, including ten years as a property and casualty producer. First International Bank & Trust is proud to welcome Kristen Wieser as a marketing design specialist and Paige Hoffman and Kelsey Toy as marketing interns. Wieser will be responsible for producing artwork for various marketing initiatives, including print, web and social media. She comes to First International Bank & Trust with six years of graphic design experience with a wide background in design

layout, collateral design and user experience. In her spare time, Wieser enjoys volunteering within the Fargo community Kristen Wieser and being outdoors. Hoffman and Toy will be responsible for assisting with local events, graphic design, social media, and other day-to-day Paige Hoffman activities within the Marketing Department. Hoffman recently finished her freshman year at Arizona State University, where she Kelsey Toy is working toward a bachelor’s degree in marketing. In her spare time, Hoffman is an active member of Kappa Kappa Gamma at ASU. She also enjoys volunteering and being outdoors. Toy recently finished her sophomore year at the University of North Dakota, where she is working toward a bachelor’s degree in marketing. In Toy’s spare time, she enjoys running, spending time with family, and watching almost any sporting event. Suzy Poehls has been hired as the business solutions analyst at Gate City Bank.

Network Center Inc. has hired Tyler Sanders as a help desk technician. Chris Cooper has been named chief operating officer of RDO Equipment Cooper has served as an RDO Equipment Co. executive vice president since 2012. He joined the company in 2004 as general manager of the Irving, Fort Worth and Waco, Texas, locations. In 2007, he was promoted to vice president of the Texas region and in 2010 he assumed leadership of the southwest construction region, serving as vice president of southern construction. Keegan Ahern has been promoted to project manager at Roers Construction. Gary Ullrich has recently been hired as an insurance advisor at TCI Insurance. Ullrich will be providing clients a full line of protection with crop, hail, farm, home, auto, health, life and business insurance. Ullrich joins TCI with 11 years of experience in the insurance industry. Trevor Keney has joined Town & Country Credit Union as vice president of business development. Western State Bank has promoted Kathy Stoppler to mortgage loan underwriter and hired Erica Cowgill as a help desk support specialist.

Awards & Accolades

Agent DJ Colter has been named All American Agent by American Family Insurance Group. The All American honor is given to agents who have distinguished themselves through outstanding sales and customer satisfaction/service of American Family insurance products. Beau Flom has been named the number one Keller Williams agent in the North Dakota. Flom also received the Triple Gold award for production in 2014.

News Briefs continued on page 16

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LETTER FROM THE PRESIDENT

HBA hits local, state, national issues on your behalf in June One of your HBA of F-M’s core objectives is to advocate on your behalf at the

local, state and national level. Last month, we were busy hitting all three levels. Locally, we’ve been discussing the halt in construction on Oxbow’s ring dike, Fargo’s special assessments and over-width permits. The HBA has also commissioned a standard drawing for wall bracing at the top of the basement where the trusses run parallel to the wall to use when building a floodproof basement in Fargo. The drawing can be used as an alternative method and is available to HBA members only. We also requested, and were granted, a change with the city of West Fargo to allow a longer sewer pipe extension past the utility easement in new residential developments. The city is also considering a reduction in the width of utility easements from 10 feet to 5 - 7 feet by using duct banks for telecommunication wires. Both of these requests were made to increase safety and work efficiencies. At the state level, our leaders went to Grand Forks to participate in the North Dakota Association of Builders board meeting and golf tourney with state legislators. Several members also traveled to the National Association of Home Builders’ Spring Board of Directors meeting and visited with our Minnesota and North Dakota Congressional delegations about permanent flood protection for the F-M area, lowincome housing in North Dakota and our region’s labor shortage. This issue of the Plains Builder includes more detailed information on all of these topics. Please know that your volunteer leaders and staff are determined to stay on top of issues important to you and your company. PAC contributions are key to strong relationships with elected officials. If you haven’t already given to BUILD-PAC this year, I encourage you to contribute. These funds allow your local and state HBAs to support candidates who are friendly to the housing industry. For those of you who have generously opened your pocketbooks, thank you! I encourage every member of our Association to do his or her part to support our PAC efforts. Your donation to PAC must be personal and non-corporate. Consider putting it on your personal credit card. BUILD-PAC can charge your card up to four installments over the year.

What companies are you working with that could be great HBA members?

There are times when Membership & Marketing Coordinator Allison Weckman calls a current member for a reference on a new member application, and the current member tells her it never even occurred to him or her to promote HBA membership. Take a minute to think about those companies you do business with. If you find one that is not a member, and you wonder if he or she should be, call the HBA staff to make sure that company fits the membership guidelines. If it does, the HBA will gladly send an information packet out or contact the individual. Contact the office at (701) 232-5846 or info@hbafm.com for more information.

August picnic filled with fun for all, Associates to be honored

We have a fun-filled event coming up Aug. 13 with our Associate Appreciation & Family Picnic at Rheault Farm. This is a casual, festive event featuring inflatable games for the kids and lots of other activities, including bean bags and ladder ball. I encourage you to bring your family, friends and spouses to the event. We go President’ Message continued on page 10

Clay Dietrich, HBA President Dietrich Homes, Inc. 6

July at a glance

July 2 HBA Closes at Noon July 3 HBA Closed

July 7 Education Committee July 7 Public Issues

Committee

July 8 Home Builders Care Board Meeting

July 10 Events Committee July 14 HBA Golf Outing July 15 Membership

Committee

July 17 HBA Closes at Noon July 20 Parade of Homes Committee

July 20 Parade of Homes &

Remodeled Home Tour Contracts Due

July 21-24 NAHB

Association Leadership Institute

July 23 Remodelers Council July 29 Muddy Boots Picnic

July 30 Health Plan Management Committee

July 30 Lunch Session:

Quickbooks for Builders www.hbafm.com

Brownlee retires from West Fargo, Fisk takes helm as city administrator

by Krista Mund, Communications Manager West Fargo City Administrator Jim Brownlee will retire at the end of this month after working with the city for 12 years. His plans for retirement include consulting with small cities in North Dakota to help them with financing projects and with budget and financing questions. “I also plan to spend part of the winters somewhere much warmer,” he says. Brownlee enjoyed working with fellow staff and commissioners throughout his time at the city, while he says West Fargo’s continued rapid growth presented many challenges. “It has been 11 years of incredible growth that has meant installation of infrastructure and facing the problems of financing those improvements, and the budget growth needed to provide the same level of service for a rapidly growing community, without raising taxes,” he says. As city administrator, Brownlee oversaw West Fargo’s day-to-day operation. This included preparation of the annual budget and the annual financial reporting. Brownlee also oversaw the operation of all departments within the city. He was in charge of developing and financing over 25 million in construction projects in each of the last five years at the city. Brownlee graduated from Minnesota State University Moorhead in 1985 with an accounting degree and earned the CPA certification in 1986. He spent 17 years working for the North Dakota State Auditors Office, heading up the Local Government Division. In 2001, Brownlee was hired by Grand Forks County as director of finance and tax. He was hired as city auditor by the city of West Fargo in 2003, then appointed as city administrator in 2005. Tina Fisk has been hired to replace Brownlee, and has been working side-byside with him leading up to retirement. She has been the city’s finance director since 2012. A Langdon, N.D. native, Fisk graduated from the University of North Dakota in 1988 with a degree in business majoring in accounting. After college, she worked as a restaurant accountant before moving back to Langdon to become a bookkeeper for Cargill elevator. She later started her own business doing financial statements and other business-related tasks for business clients. Fisk then spent 16 years as auditor/assessor for the city of Landgon. She later joined the municipal finance division for Advanced Engineering and Environmental Services Inc. of Fargo doing work for communities in Minnesota and North Dakota.

Benefit slated for Northland Truss’s Mike Holden Northland Truss Systems is helping

family and friends organize a benefit for employee Mike Holden, a human resource professional, who is battling pancreatic cancer. He was diagnosed in 2014 and recently found out that the cancer has metastasized and spread to multiple areas. The benefit will be 5:308:30 p.m. July 31 at El Zagal Shrine, 1429 3rd St. N., Fargo. Funds raised will help defray medical expenses and support Holden in his battle. Holden has lived in Fargo for 28 years, worked at Northland Truss for 14 years and served with the National Guard for eight years. Help by: 1. Donate silent auction items: • Contributing gift cards, themed baskets, jewelry, sporting goods, clothing, hunting equipment, homemade pieces, etc. • Drop off items or mail to Northland Truss in Abercrombie or Fargo: 200 Front Ave., Abercrombie, N.D. 58001; or 4025 4th Ave. S. Ste 2, Fargo N.D. • Turn in silent auction items as soon as possible, no later than July 30. 2. Monetary Donations to go directly to defray medical expenses • Donations are accepted at US Bank, West Acres Branch, 3802 13th Ave. S., Fargo, N.D. 58103. Make checks payable to the Mike Holden Donation Account.

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PUBLIC ISSUES

Basement Construction in Fargo: Wall Bracing Specs Now Available From HBA

by Krista Mund, Communications Manager Revisions to Fargo’s floodproof basement design became effective in January. The HBA of F-M and its members have worked to clarify the information and process. The HBA has commissioned a standard drawing for wall bracing at the top of the basement where the trusses run parallel to the wall. The drawing can be used an alternative method and is available to HBA members only. Contact the HBA of F-M at (701) 232-5846 or info@hbafm.com to receive a copy. Here are some tips in complying with the requirements: • Before a permit will be issued, foundation plans must show required construction details per city floodproof specifications. Items inspectors look for on the foundation plan include the type of reinforcing option you are using (contractors can use different reinforcing options for different walls). The HBA recommends working with your concrete company and truss manufacturer to ensure that the correct information is present on Basement Construction continued on page 10

HBA Works to Help Builders with Projects in Oxbow After Judge Issues Injunction

by Krista Mund, Communications Manager In May, a federal judge issued an injunction resulting in cessation of all work on the Oxbow ring dike until the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources completes a study on impacts of the F-M Diversion. Along with work on the ring dike itself, construction of homes replacing bought-out properties was threatened to be stopped by the F-M Diversion Authority. When the injunction was issued, there were eight homes under construction being allowed to continue, five homes under contract, and 25 homes in line for funding and construction, with more anticipated to follow. The HBA of F-M met with the affected builders, the city of Oxbow and the F-M Diversion Authority. The Association has closely monitored the situation, and members addressed the issue with North Dakota’s Congressional Delegation in Washington, D.C., in June. As of press time, affected parties await communication from the federal judge clarifying if his decision included ceasing construction of homes involved in the buy-out process. The impacts of stopping home construction in Oxbow is far-reaching and affects many home-building-industry businesses: • Builders planning to work on projects in the city of Oxbow had only a few weeks to decide to stay or move on, with their livelihoods at risk. These builders need to provide work for their employees and generate income to make payroll and support their staffs. • All of these builders construct custom homes that require months, if not years, of preparation and planning. Many already have thousands of dollars invested in these home projects which may be shelved for an undetermined amount of time. • These builders face the possibility of employees leaving for a more secure career if projects and income are suddenly in question. • Some builders face going out of business or being set back up to three years since they only build one to three homes per year; they have their future business and jobs slated for Oxbow. • Trades partners may go elsewhere and seek new business due to the risk of the projects not moving forward. • This possible stoppage creates havoc with the trades’ schedules: concrete, framers, roofers, interior decorators, plumbers, electricians, financial institutions, drywall, masons, landscapers, etc. There are probably 20 or more trade contractors plus 15 suppliers for each custom home. • Businesses and employers in both North Dakota and Minnesota are impacted. • Financial impacts to the F-M economy are great and will continue to rise as material and wage costs increase.

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HBA of F-M works with truss companies to address overwidth issues The HBA of F-M met with Jake Rick, Fargo engineering

department; and truss company representatives June 16. The meeting was set up to discuss issues with the city of Fargo’s Overdimensional Vehicle Policy, which establishes the weight, width, length and height restrictions for vehicles operating on city streets. Truss companies fall into a niche market, where they are rarely overweight, but always require an overwidth permit. The city of Fargo requires 48-hours notice for each Overdimensional Vehicle permit; although the permits rarely take this amount of time to be processed, it has become an issue for truss companies in the demanding market, where turnaround times often boil down to a few hours. The proposed solution is to switch to a yearly Overdimensional Vehicle Permit, the current practice in North Dakota, South Dakota and Minnesota. Although Fargo has a monthly permit program, it is unrealistic because of its expense. Currently, the only options in the city of Fargo are per load ($20) or per month ($200 per truck). The annual fee for an overwidth permit for the State of North Dakota is $100, Minnesota is $120 and South Dakota is $60. Truss company representatives also requested that the interior bridge lengths be removed from the overwidth permits. Trucks often have the ability to pull any number of trailers, and some trailers are expandable. The interior bridge length dimension requirements pertain to weight restrictions, and they said that it is extremely unlikely that a truckload of metalconnected wood trusses that are overwidth, would ever be overweight. Rick felt the proposed solutions were logical and discussed bringing it back to his department and the City Commission as soon as possible. As of press time, the HBA was writing supplemental materials with help from member truss companies, to be presented at City Commission.

Trenching, Utility Safety Issues Meeting Update In April the HBA of F-M held an industry meeting with

representatives from utility companies, cabling companies and excavators. May’s Plains Builder included a full recap. A range of issues were covered including location of electric meters on homes, co-locating utility lines and excavating water and sewer lines. Since the meeting, the HBA has worked with the city of West Fargo, requesting from West Fargo’s City Commission that water and sewer pipes end 5 feet past utility easements, to allow excavators to uncover pipes without being under electrical and gas service. Extending pipes 5 feet past the easement will give excavators the ability to lower a trenchsafety box over the sewer and water pipes; this enables them

Update on Industry Meeting continued on page 10

HBA of F-M Members Keep Health of Future Construction Programs Top Priority

by Jenny Erickson, Director of Development & Education HBA of F-M members met with Minnesota State Community and Technical College Dean Dllona Clendenen on the health and future of construction programs at M State. After the carpentry program was proposed to switch from a two-year program to a one-year certificate program in December of 2014, HBA leaders became concerned with the health of construction-related programs in local schools. The HBA of F-M and M State have worked closely together to ensure the programs remain relevant and available to the future workforce. A group of HBA members reviewed the curriculum and thought it was set up well and would prepare the students for jobs out in the industry. Part of the program includes an internship aspect. The HBA and M State also covered plumbing, electricity, A/C Refrigeration and HVAC programs. A short update is provided below. • The plumbing program has been deferred for one year as the instructor has taken a sabbatical. During this time, Clendenen plans to revamp the program to ensure it is filling the industry need. • The electricity program continues to be robust and well supported by the industry, as is the construction management program. • The A/C refrigeration program has a commercialonly focus. Students must also take one year of HVAC before entering the A/C Refrigeration program. • The HVAC program was revamped to operate like a program at the M State Wadena campus. It has been going well. To support and keep these programs vital, the HBA is looking at developing a sponsorship program for the carpentry program. The first step is providing internships opportunities for carpentry students for the spring semester of 2016. Details on how these internships will work have not been set, but the HBA is seeking a list of companies willing to have a carpentry intern and be a part of the program. The HBA of F-M is also working on a future scholarship program for students, where members could sponsor summer employment and a three-to five-year commitment to work after graduation with a tuition-forgiveness aspect. For more information on this meeting or either of the student opportunities listed above please contact Jenny Erickson at (701) 232-5846 or jenny@hbafm.com.

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Local Mayors Proclaim June as Homeownership Month

by Michael Pfau, Public Affairs Intern Four area mayors signed a proclamation designating June as Homeownership Month for the cities of Dilworth, Fargo, Moorhead and West Fargo. Two of the mayors, a deputy mayor and a commissioner then participated in a groundbreaking ceremony at a north Fargo Lake Agassiz Habitat for Humanity build on June 10. Dilworth Mayor Chad Olson, Fargo Deputy Mayor Mike Williams, Moorhead Mayor Del Rae Williams, West Fargo Commissioner Mark Simmons, HBA of F-M President Clay Dietrich, Dietrich Homes, Inc,; and Director of Lake Agassiz Habitat for Humanity Rob Rich broke ground for a home that will belong to a family of two. The local dignitaries also expressed what homeownership meant for them and their respective communities. The home will belong to Tenille Brackins and her daughter. The new home will allow her daughter, who suffers from asthma, a fresh clean home to keep her healthy. The home is expected to begin construction in July. “The positive effects of housing construction are far-reaching and long-lasting,” Dietrich says. “Homeownership builds neighborhoods and leads to stronger communities.” Homeownership month is nationally recognized by organizations such as the National Association of Home Builders, United States Department of Housing and Urban Development and the United States Department of Agriculture, among many more. It promotes the attainability and economic benefits of homeownership, especially to first-time home buyers.

Basement Construction continued from page 8 the plans before submitting for a permit. • The city of Fargo’s “Floodproof Construction Requirements,” document has all information necessary to obtain a permit for floodproof construction and is available from Fargo’s inspections division. We recommend you build more time for the permitting process the first time you include a floodproof basement in 2015. Background: In January, FEMA revised the area’s floodplain map and raised the 100-year flood plain to 39.4 feet which put an additional 2,300 buildings into the at-risk category. Current FEMA guidelines require no more than a 5-foot differential between the base flood elevation and the top of the basement floor. In order to keep building basements, Fargo had to take steps to ensure the basement exception granted by FEMA could continue to be used. The city of Fargo determined that revisions were needed to the “Structural Design Requirements for Floodproofed Basements Design Guide” in order to be approved by FEMA and continue to utilize the basement exception. President’ Message continued from page 6 light on the business and heavy on the socializing, food and fun.

Fall Parade of Homes, Remodeled Home Tour will be here soon

Your HBA is already busy planning fall events. Mark your calendar for the 16th annual Fall Parade of Homes Sept. 26-27 and Oct. 3-4. Now in its fourth year, the Remodeled Home Tour is held in conjunction with the Fall Parade Oct. 3-4, see page 34 for details. See next month’s issue for a listing of homes featured in this year’s event.

Fargo Deputy Mayor Mike Williams, HBA of F-M President Clay Dietrich, Dietrich Homes; Dilworth Mayor Chad Olson; West Fargo City Commissioner Mark Simmons; Rob Rich, Lake Agassiz Habitat for Humanity; Moorhead Mayor Del Rae Williams break ground on a Habitat Build to proclaim June as Homeownership Month.

Update on Industry Meeting continued on from page 9 to excavate a smaller area than the oneto-one ratio allows, while maintaining safe working conditions. The West Fargo City Commission approved this change during its meeting June 1. As of press time, the HBA continues to work towards addressing the remaining issues. www.hbafm.com

Special Assessments Task Force Meets with Fargo Officials

by Michael Pfau, Public Affairs Intern The HBA of F-M and the Fargo-Moorhead Area Association of Realtors held a meeting for their Joint Special Assessments Task Force June 15. Over 20 community members were present as they expressed concerns and asked for clarifications on special assessments. Representatives included members of the HBA of F-M and FMAAR, representatives of three financial institutions, builders and city of Fargo engineering department staff. Members of the task force expressed their concerns and questions regarding special assessments, such as homeowners footing the bill for infrastructure. Another concern was the decline of affordable housing in the region, something they feel special assessments exacerbates. Dan Eberhardt, city of Fargo Special Assessment Coordinator, put together a snap shot of special assessments from 1989 and that of addresses in various locations and developments in Fargo. The group was able to see the steady rise, then the spike in 2012, once the Letter of Map Revisions by the Federal Emergency Management Administration started. April Walker, Fargo engineer, explained that on average, the Letter of Map Revision requirement which lifts basements out of the floodplain to 41 ft plus 1.2 ft, raises the assessment by $0.70 per square foot. She also explained that there is a 6 percent administration charge along with an 11 percent engineering charge on builds. Walker also added that affordable housing is a concern and priority for the city of Fargo. She added that affordable housing is a challenge as cost of living and infrastructure rises. City officials explained that the city is looking for alternatives to finance infrastructure. Currently, the city receives only $4 million a year from the state for road rehabilitation. Fargo also seeks more federal grants to offset the high assessments. The meeting ended on a productive note, with questions answered and some clarity. The task force plans to meet with other Fargo officials who will be able to speak more specifically about the financial aspects of the special assessments.

May HBA Accomplishments Each month, the HBA staff compiles a list outlining what

the HBA has done for you, including education opportunities, legislative work, events and meetings staff and members have attended. • Finished up the second-largest Parade of Homes in history featuring 90 homes by 47 HBA of F-M Builder members. • Welcomed just over 150 members to the Parade of Homes Celebration at the Hilton Garden Inn. • Held continuing education on the EPA RRP Lead rule for 22 members. • Hosted two sessions educating 38 members on Fargo's new rules for floodproof basement construction. • Held a lunch session on succession planning. • Attended the F-M Diversion Authority Meeting. • Staff and members attended a meeting at Minnesota State Community and Technical College in Moorhead on curriculum for its trade programs. • Staff attended the Greater Fargo Moorhead Economic Development Corporation's Marketing Committee meeting. • Hosted a lunch session on blower-door testing and thermal imaging cameras on a jobsite. • Hosted a second meeting with utilities and trenching/ excavating companies on the location of electric meters and potentially co-locating utilities in one trench to provide safer locate services down the road. • Attended the Northern Region Association of Safety Professionals' monthly meeting. • Attended the F-M-WF Chamber of Commerce's Public Affairs Committee meeting. • Staff attended lunches at both Stenerson Lumber and Simonson Lumber, and helped gather donations for Home Builders Care Foundation at Simonson's event. • In addition to education and special meetings, five committees came together for regular monthly meetings, the HBA of F-M executive committee and board of directors met, and Home Builders Care Foundation trustees met. • Was successful in requesting alternative methods for foundation insulation methods in Moorhead due to the way homes are constructed in our heavy clay soil. • Sent a letter of comment to President Obama regarding his Executive Order to update floodplain management. This new requirement will have significant impacts on how and where our members develop, build and remodel new and existing homes and communities. As of press time, June wasn’t over yet, so we’re always a month behind. Thank you for your understanding!

Jerry Howard, NAHB’s chief executive officer, will be the HBA of F-M’s speaker at its October Awards Gala & Annual Meeting! This evening will be the kick-off for the HBA of F-M’s 60th anniversary in 2016. www.hbafm.com

NORTH DAKOTA ASSOCIATION OF BUILDERS

Patent Trolls This month, I want to take a moment

to point out an important issue affecting our industry in some areas of the country. Below is an article featuring information on patent trolls and some of the tactics they use, as well as some information on possible legislative reform. North Dakota Association of Builders has joined the United for LeRoy Kurtyka Patent Reform coalition and will keep NDAB President an eye on pending developments. If you would like to report any experiences you encounter, or add your voice to any letters of support to our congressional delegates, please contact Kim.

by Vinay Patel, president of Fairbrook Hotels in Chantilly In a time of what seems like endless partisan fighting in Congress, there is one thing that both parties have agreed needs to be done: patent reform. For too long, patent trolls have been attacking businesses, including hotels, wielding vague, overly broad patents that they use to file outrageous lawsuits. Trolls have taken to attacking businesses of all types, claiming to have the patents for basic technologies used across nearly every industry. The trolls are taking advantage of businesses’ efforts to provide better service to their customers through new technology. This includes everything from store locators and online shopping carts to ATM technology and, in the case of the hotel industry, Wi-Fi. What needs to be done is to pass reform that levels the playing field, giving businesses the opportunity to defend themselves from these cases. One of trolls’ favorite weapons, the demand letter, needs to be reformed to help businesses better understand what trolls are claiming. These letters are often intentionally vague, making it difficult, if not impossible, for a business owner to determine whether the accusations they include are legitimate or not. Trolls also use the exorbitant cost of these cases — often more than a $1 million — to bully businesses into simply paying settlements. We need to make it easier for judges to force trolls to pay defendants’ legal fees when they lose the case. This would not only make it more likely that businesses fight back, but also discourage trolls from suing in the first place. In the same vein, the discovery process needs to be reformed to prevent trolls from using it to drive up costs. Under the current system, defendants often have to turn over thousands of pages of documents — many of which are never used — before the case even begins. Reform needs to limit discovery at the beginning of the lawsuit and make trolls pay for any additional documents needed. Reform also needs to provide for customer stays when manufacturers intervene in cases. Patent trolls often attack the end users of a technology, who purchased it believing that it infringed on no patents. For example, one patent troll sued hundreds of hotels across the country claiming that it had the Patent Trolls continued on next page 12

Hill Visits Last month, in early June, over 20

members from North Dakota traveled to Washington, D.C., to join members from across the nation for the National Association of Home Builders’ Board of Directors meetings. Our members attended committee meetings, the BUILD-PAC board meeting, Area 10 Caucus meeting lead by National Area Kim Schneider Chairman Ralph Applegren, Grand NDAB Executive Officer Forks, and on the final day, the NAHB Board of Directors meeting. Included in the meetings were great opportunities to shake hands with members from across the nation, meet NAHB staff members face-to-face and to socialize and even dance at the various receptions, dinners and Gold Key party. All in all, it was a great time and we appreciate our members who are involved at the National level and bring a voice from North Dakota. We didn’t spend all of our time at the conference. We took time on Thursday morning to head to Capitol Hill where we had face-to-face meetings with U.S. Senators Heitkamp and Hoeven. Both Senators were gracious enough to give us 30 minutes of their time to discuss various issues impacting our state and local associations. It also gave us an opportunity to meet with their staff who work on the specific issues and we were provided with insight on what is happening in D.C. We always appreciate and value the time we have with them. Some of the members from the Fargo-Moorhead Association also had the opportunity to meet with the three delegation members from Minnesota! While we were in the area, a group was also given a great tour of the Capitol building and all of the amazing historical facts that are hidden inside of those beautiful walls. Area 10 Caucus is made up of North Dakota, South Dakota, Minnesota, Wisconsin and Iowa. National Area Chairman is a voted position that serves to two years and we are proud to have Ralph Applegren represent us. Our Area 10 Caucus meetings are a great opportunity for our states to gather to get NAHB updates, share what is happening in each state and hear from guest speakers. This year we heard from the Third Vice Chairman candidate for 2016, the current Third Vice Chairman and our Regional Field Representative. We were updated on education licenses, about the upcoming Association Leadership Institute, the availability of online courses and upcoming board meetings. We were able to share ideas, express concern and overall, be heard. Area 10 Caucus tends to be the most well attended caucus which is huge considering NAHB is 141,000+ members strong! If you have been thinking about attending an NAHB Board of Directors meeting but are hesitant, I encourage you to reach out to your local association board members about getting registered. From the state, we share the meeting schedules, invite you to the group dinner and help guide you along the way. The experience is full of education, networking and fun. The next NAHB Board of Directors meeting will be held in Austin, Texas, Sept. 26-29 and I hope to see you there! www.hbafm.com

NORTH DAKOTA ASSOCIATION OF BUILDERS BISMARCK-MANDAN HOME BUILDERS ASSOCIATION DOT FRANK, EXECUTIVE OFFICER (701) 222-2400 BMHBA.COM • New members enjoyed a pitchfork fondue at the New Member BBQ in June. The event is open to members who joined in the past two years and all committee members. • The Annual Picnic at The Post attracted 205 members who raised $3,211 for the BSC Scholarship Fund. • The Government Affairs Committee is hosting an appraiser roundtable event in early July. The event’s aim is to gather information about the appraisal process and discover ways builders can assist it. • The PAC Golf Tournament is scheduled for July 14 at Hawktree. Registration is open at bmhba.com/events.

DICKINSON AREA BUILDERS ASSOCIATION IRENE SCHAFER, EXECUTIVE OFFICER (701) 483-0044 DICKINSONAREABUILDERS.COM

• Dickinson summer plans include our annual picnic at Eagles Park on Aug. 12 and our annual Golf Scramble on Aug. 20 at Heart River Golf Course. • Our next GMM is scheduled for Sept. 2.

FORX BUILDERS ASSOCIATION BETTY MCDONALD, EXECUTIVE OFFICER (701) 746-4536 FORXBUILDERS.COM • We are excited to report that we sold the 2015 Project House. Jake and Jenny Olson are the proud new owners. We are moving on to the 2016 Project House already. • Our Sporting Clay Shoot was a great day. We are thankful to Andersen Windows & Doors for sponsoring the event once again this year. Loren Abel of Abel Construction was the lucky winner of the gun. • Tim Shea’s Nursery & Landscaping will sponsor the July Builders after Hours. MINOT ASSOCIATION OF BUILDERS VICKY FLAGSTAD, EXECUTIVE OFFICER (701) 852-0496 MINOTAB.COM • July 14 BAH is being hosted by First International Bank and Trust at its new north hill location. • Progress continues on the Stewart house in Underwood. We have most of the finish work lined up but will be short of funds to pay for that work. We are working with the lender to get it added to the Stewarts mortgage. Plans are to be finished with our participation by mid-July. Many, many hours have been put in by the project manager (Cindy Snay, Coughlin Construction) to keep everything on track and on time.

• Annual Past Presidents’ Golf Tournament is set for Aug. 14 at The Vardon Golf Club. All NDAB members are welcome to participate.

WILLISTON AREA BUILDERS ASSOCIATION (701) 572-5744 WILLISTONBUILDERS.COM

• 1st Annual Golf Scramble 1 p.m. Aug. 6 at the Eagle Ridge Golf Course. Registration and information can be found on WABA website at www.willistonbuilders.com. • An Appreciation Picnic for members is scheduled for Aug. 20. Details will be provided in the near future. • The Board has selected the weekend of Oct. 3-4 for the 3rd Annual Parade of Homes Event. • Our EO (Beth) has left us in pursuit of other ventures, and we wish her well. Our new search committee is busy working on her replacement. All correspondence and phone calls can still be directed to their current address and/or phone number which is being manned by volunteers from our Board of Directors. Any urgent business can be accomplished by contacting David J. Nordenstrom, president, at (320) 360-5807. We thank you for your patience while we are going through this process.

Patent Trolls continued from previous page

patent for Wi-Fi technology. These hotels were stuck with the choice of paying thousands to settle the case or to pay upwards of a million to defend themselves in courts. Our broken patent system costs businesses $29 billion each year. This money comes straight from their revenues, preventing them from hiring new employees, investing in research or building their businesses. Many of these businesses, like the hotels mentioned above, are unsuspecting victims who are sued for using technology or practices that are standard in their industry. Congress is considering legislation that would help end patent troll lawsuits for good. Virginia Rep. Bob Goodlatte has spearheaded legislation to stop this litigation abuse. Earlier this year, he introduced the Innovation Act, which contains many of the reforms that we need to protect businesses from this extortion. This same bill was passed by the House in the last Congress, with clear bipartisan support. In addition, the Senate is considering another bill that would help stop trolls. These bills have support from both parties; our elected officials simply need to take action to make reform happen. Congress has an opportunity to pass legislation that will put money back in the economy and help businesses grow. The longer we wait, the more businesses suffer from these unnecessary lawsuits, costing jobs and sucking money out of the economy. The longer we wait, the more businesses suffer from these unnecessary lawsuits, costing jobs and sucking money out of the economy.

Back your PAC … your PAC backs you! NDAB-PAC is the North Dakota Association of Builders’ Political Action Committee. It is a non-partisan political action committee that provides support for candidates who are friends of the building industry. Contact NDAB at (800) 326-4746, (701) 2222401 or info@ndbuild.com to contribute or learn more! www.hbafm.com

BUILDERS ASSOCIATION OF MINNNESOTA

Required: Subcontractor Registration Now that construction season is in full swing, be sure you are complying with

the Contractor Registration law. It’s important to comply as a subcontractor and as a general contractor. There are significant fines at stake. If you registered last year, you may be due to renew. Under the law, which went into effect in 2014, contractors and subcontractors must hire registered contractors or face significant penalties and must be found to have hired an employee and not an independent contractor. Contractors who provide residential or commercial building construction or improvement services are required to register with the Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry through the Construction Contractor Registration Program. Licensed residential contractors do not have to be registered because they already carry a license with the state. Licensed contractors are required to make sure their subs are all registered. The law provides general contractors and subs that subcontract an improved nine-factor test “safe harbor” and a first-time violation “hall pass” (forgivable fine).

UPCOMING EDUCATION

For additional details contact Jenny Erickson at (701) 232-=5846 or jenny@hbafm.com

July 30 Lunch Session: Quick Books for Builders • • •

WHEN: 11 a.m - 1 p.m. WHERE: HBA of F-M, 1802 32nd Ave. S., Fargo, COST: $10 (includes lunch)

This lunch session will give tips to builders on managing project financially.

Registration is free and can be done online at:

August 25 Houzz.com 8:30 - 10:30 a.m. Houzz Office Hours

Contractors and subcontractors must hire registered contractors

https://secure.doli.state.mn.us/license/initialapp.aspx?code=IR If a person does not register, he or she will be presumed to be an employee of the entity for which the work is performed. Also, persons must still meet the nine-factor test to be considered an independent contractor.

Contractors who hire subcontractors to perform work as an independent contractor will need to continue to use DLI’s online license lookup tool to verify a subcontractor status as a “registered contractor.” To look up a registration go to: https://secure.doli.state.mn.us/lookup/licensing.aspx There are two pull-down menus. Select the discipline “Registered Contractors” in the first menu. Select “Contractor Registration” as the classification. Use the business name in the search block to search for and confirm registration. If all else fails, call or email DLI at: (651) 284-5074 or dli.register@state. mn.us

Expiration Date for MN Construction Contractor Registration Renewals Moved toAccording Dec. 31 to the Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry, the expiration date of all current contractor registrations has been changed from June 30, 2015, to Dec. 31, 2015. Contractor registrations now need to be renewed by Dec. 31 of each odd-numbered year. DLI’s registration system will allow contractors to renew their registrations through the DLI website beginning Oct. 1, 2015. Renewal instructions will be posted on the DLI website in the fall. DLI’s license lookup tool now displays the Dec. 31, 2015, expiration date for all current contractor registrations: https://secure.doli.state.mn.us/lookup/ licensing.aspx. You can use this lookup to locate and print an updated copy of your registration information. 14

11 a.m. - noon Houzz for Beginners

1 - 2 p.m. Houzz.com Advanced Users • • •

WHEN: 11 a.m - Noon and 1 p.m. - 2 p.m. WHERE: HBA of F-M, 1802 32nd Ave. S., Fargo, COST: $10 (includes lunch)

New users to Houzz can join us from 11 a.m. - noon. to learn how to set up a profile and take advantage of the free benefits. People who already have their Houzz profiles setup and want to know more strategic ways to leverage the Houzz platform shoud join us from 1 - 2 p.m. Houzz.com is a social network set up to allow people to browse and save photos of homes and projects they like. Houzz allows people to connect with contractors, designers, architects and to discover products and inspiration. We will also offer one-on-one office hours for member companies to work with Houzz.com staff. www.hbafm.com

www.hbafm.com

News Briefs continued from page 5 Dawn Lahlum of Park Co. Realtors was named to the Prairie Business Magazine’s Top 25 Women in Business in the northern plains. Honorees were selected through a nomination process that emphasized professional achievement and community contributions. Karen Skjold of Park Co. Realtors has been awarded the Certified Residential Specialist designation by the Council of Residential Specialists. Realtors who receive the CRS designation have earned the highest credential awarded to residential agents, manager and brokers. They have completed advanced courses and have demonstrated professional expertise in the field of residential real estate. Chambers and Partners has ranked Serkland Law Firm and five of its attorneys in the 2015 publication of Chambers USA Guide, a leading directory of the legal profession. Serkland is ranked Band 1 in North Dakota for litigation: general commercial; and bankruptcy/ restructuring.

Muddy Boots Picnic July 29, Associate Appreciation, Family Picnic Aug. 13

Contractors, mark your calendars to attend the HBA of F-M’s contractor appreciation event, Muddy Boots Picnic, 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. July 29. Bring your crew for a free meal on the HBA lawn. Don’t miss a family night at the HBA of F-M’s Associate Appreciation and Family Picnic 5 - 7 p.m. Aug. 13 at Rheault Farm, 2902 25th St. S., Fargo. Join us for a free barbecue dinner and lots of fun games for the kids.

Nominations open for Builder, Associate of the Year

Each Fall, the HBA of F-M presents Builder and Associate of the Year awards at its Annual Membership Meeting in October. A committee made up of past winners and HBA Executive Vice President Bryce Johnson is now accepting nominations for consideration. Call the HBA at (701) 232-5846 or email info@hbafm.com if you have suggestions. 16

HBA welcomes nominations for board of directors

IBS registration opens Sept. 1

It will soon be time to elect members to serve on the HBA of F-M board of directors. Directors with terms expiring at the end of 2015 are: Harry Gilbertson, Harry Gilbertson Construction, and Sylvia Lunski, Design Direction, Inc., If you are interested, contact the HBA office at (701) 232-5846 or info@hbafm.com.

Member registration for the 2016 International Builders Show Jan. 19-21, in Las Vegas, opens Sept. 1. It’s never too early to start planning. Remember, IBS and the Kitchen & Bath Industry Show are now located together! Visit www.buildersshow.com for more details or contact the HBA of F-M at (701) 232-5846 or info@hbafm.com.

Work on 2016-2017 Development Map is underway

Construction contractor registration renewal information

E&M Consulting is working on the HBA of F-M’s Development Map for 2016-2017. Salespeople will be contacting HBA members about advertising and including as many of the Fargo-Moorhead area’s developments as possible. Please know that any correspondence from E&M is on behalf of your Association. Watch for an advertising rate sheet coming soon! If you have questions, or would like to reserve listing or ad space, contact Justin with E&M at (800) 572-0011 or (701) 526-1937.

Give to PAC, support housing

PAC contributions are important to the home building industry and supporting pro-housing candidates. By giving to the National Association of Home Builders’ political action committee, BUILD-PAC, you are investing in the future of your business. With even a small donation of just $20, you will personally help make home building stronger. There are many contribution levels available. Check out www.nahb.org or contact John Koerselman at (701) 282-7667.

HBA seeks sponsors for Fall Parade of Homes, Remodeled Home Tour

The HBA of F-M seeks sponsors for the Fall Parade of Homes Sept. 26-27 and Oct. 3-4 and the Remodeled Home Tour Oct. 3-4. Parade and Remodeled Home Tour sponsors will be promoted through the event magazine, on the HBA website, in the Plains Builder and in radio advertising. Contact Allison Weckman at (701) 232-5846 or allisonw@hbafm. com.

The expiration date of all current contractor registrations has been changed from June 30, 2015, to Dec. 31, 2015. Contractor registrations now need to be renewed by Dec. 31 of each odd-numbered year. DLI’s registration system will allow contractors to renew their registrations through the DLI website beginning Oct. 1, 2015. Renewal instructions will be posted on the DLI website in the fall. DLI’s license lookup tool now displays the Dec. 31, 2015, expiration date for all current contractor registrations. You can use this lookup to locate and print an updated copy of your registration information. For more information visit www.dli.mn.gov/CCLD/register.asp

‘Affiliation badge’ now available on Houzz

The HBA of F-M has a presence on Houzz.com, a leading online platform for home remodeling and design. Houzz has made it easy for HBA members to add our affiliation badge to your profile! Just visit our HBA Houzz profile page: http://www.houzz.com/pro/hbafm and click “Add as Affiliation” under the Members area. Our logo will appear as an affiliation on your profile. Please add our badge so that you are listed in our chapter’s profile directory, which can increase your visibility on Houzz. More than 25 million home owners use Houzz every month. The badge program will let you showcase your professional affiliation right on your profile. Contact Chelsea Smith at (701) 232-5846 if you have questions. To learn more about setting up a profile on Houzz, attend the Houzz Lunch Session Aug. 25. For details contact Jenny Erickson at (701) 2325846 or jenny@hbafm.com. www.hbafm.com

HBA Leaders Head to the Nation’s Capitol for Spring Board of Directors Meeting Last month, I traveled with several HBA of F-M members to

Block Grant Program. This program helps North Dakota communities invest in infrastructure, helps create jobs and helps construct homes for low-income families. Hoeven’s staff members announced that HUD awarded North Dakota more than 1.4 million in housing grants to 15 housing authorities. Hoeven is also a co-sponsor of Move America take part in the National Association of Home Builders’ Spring Act of 2015 which uses tax exempt bonds and tax credits in infrastructure Board of Directors meeting in Washington, D.C. Those who Ken Krajsa projects using public-private NAHB Life Director traveled with to the meetings included: Clay Dietrich, Dietrich partnerships. It was also mentioned that Bell State Bank & Trust Homes, Inc.; Carlita Dietz, Jay Dietz Construction; Jason Eid, this could be a more fast and affordable Eid- Co Homes, Inc.; John Gunkelman, Dakota Construction of Fargo, Inc.; Darrick way to fund the FM Diversion. Kobuchar Guthmiller, Kochmann Brothers Homes, Inc.; John Koerselman, Red River Drywall and Franken are co-sponsors of S1193 – and Painting Services, Inc.; Dan Lindquist, Dan Lindquist Construction, Inc and a bill to amend Internal Revenue Code of myself. 1986. This bill would expand the credit HBA leaders and the North Dakota Association of Builders were able to secure rate for the low income housing tax meetings at the Capitol with U.S. Sens. Heidi Heitkamp, North Dakota and U.S. credit program, which makes investment Rep. Collin Peterson, Minnesota. The group also met with the staff of U.S. Sens. more attractive. John Hoeven, Lastly members North Dakota, Amy discussed S1140, Klobuchar and Al the Federal Water Franken, Minnesota. Quality Protection Members lobbied on Act, which behalf of the building Heitkamp, Hoeven industry, addressing and Klobuchar issue that affect co-sponsor. S1140 home building in would require the the FM area. Key Environmental points of discussion Protection Agency to included: Housing revise the definition Refinance Reform, of the term “waters FM Diversion and of the United States” EPA “Waters of and develop new the United States.” plans in consultation The senators and with state and local their staff were very governments. HBA of F-M Members attend Spring Board in Washington D.C. From left to right Back Row: John accommodating, and Members were Gunkelman, Dakota Construction of Fargo, Inc.; Darrick Guthmiller, Kochmann Brothers Homes, Inc.; we appreciate the Dan Lindquist, Dan Lindquist Construction, Inc.; Rep. Collin Peterson; John Koerselman, Red River also able to attend time they took out of Drywall & Painting Services, Inc.; North Dakota Association of Builder President LeRoy Kurtyka, the Single Family their busy schedules Northern Plumbing Supply, Inc.; Ken Krajsa, Bell State Bank & Trust. Front Row: HBA of F-M President Builders Committee, to meet with us. Clay Dietrich, Dietrich Homes, Inc.; Carlita Dietz, Jay Dietz Construction, Inc.. Associates In the heat Committee, Housing of the lawsuit involving the Oxbow ring dike, the FM Diversion dominated most Finance Committee, Area 10 Caucus conversations. Members expressed their concerns for the future home owners of and the NAHB Board Meeting. the homes in limbo as they are faced with the uncertainty of building. Members The trip was very beneficial to also pointed out the impact on their businesses and their employees. Heitkamp and members of the HBA and the building Hoeven support the FM Diversion, and Heitkamp stressed the need for one voice in industry. Representatives from the North Dakota. She mentioned there is not much that can be done on a federal level HBA were able to represent the region in regards to the Oxbow ring dike lawsuit. Along with his support of the Diversion, and the industry by bringing issues Hoeven is working with the Federal Emergency Management Agency to control cost we are facing directly to our leaders in of flood insurance. In meeting with Peterson, his outlook was not optimistic on the Washington. Thank you to those who FM Diversion. He felt that Fargo is doing this for its own development without regard attended and took time away from their to upstream & downstream. businesses and families to advocate on Members also discussed housing finance reform. Heitkamp reported progress is behalf of the industry. being made behind the scenes, but Senate Banking Committee Chairman Selby is not convinced that a federal backstop is necessary. She also mentioned she opposed the Housing and Urban Development cutting funds to the Community Development

www.hbafm.com

HBA of F-M Invites you to the

Associate Appreciation & Family Picnic by Allison Weckman, Membership & Marketing Coordinator What better way to celebrate Associate Appreciation month than with a free picnic? Join us for our next member meeting, the Associate Appreciation & Family Picnic Aug. 13 at Rheault Farm. The fun starts at 5 p.m. with dinner at 5:30 p.m. Children will enjoy inflatable games from Games Galore and adults can partake in craft beer and wine tasting. Dinner will be the ultimate picnic meal: burgers and hot dogs fresh off the grill, with potato salad, chips, beverages and cupcakes served by Builder members to show appreciation for the HBAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Associates. We will also award prizes to Associate members in attendance with a grand prize of dinner out on the HBA and a free half-page ad for one month in the Plains Builder. The event is free to members if registered by Aug. 10. Late registrations, walk-ins and no-shows will be charged $10. Please be sure to register for the event so we have enough food Cancellation policy for member meetings: You must cancel 24 hours in advance or you will be billed for the event. We appreciate your understanding. Thank you to our game sponsor:

www.hbafm.com

19 Students Complete the for the

by Jenny Erickson, Director of Education & Development The 2015 Herdina Academy marked the 18th year of our premier event for workforce development. This year kicked off with 19 students coming together to learn about the home-building industry. Students started off the first week building sheds. In addition, they learned how to frame floors, walls and roofs. They also worked with concrete, preparing a site and pouring and finishing a slab of concrete. The students put siding on sheds and install shingles on the roof. Students also had to build doors for the sheds this year. They spent time working with steel stud framing, foam insulation and hanging drywall. In the second week, students learned about Dryvit exterior installation, spent time in the plumbing lab, worked in the A/C, refrigeration and HVAC lab and worked with electricity. Students also learned about masonry and built a free-standing brick wall. Students installed flooring including laminate and carpet. New this year, students learned about wood working and finish carpentry. In addition, the students were challenged to talk about themselves during interviews. A contractor luncheon was hosted in the second week where students and HBA members participated in speed interviewing. Each student met with an interviewer for two minutes. They were instructed to share a little about themselves and present themselves as if for a job interview. This allowed students who are interested in summer jobs to connect with contractors who are hiring. Students toured Minnesota State Community and Technical College and North Dakota State College of Science campuses so they can explore the options of furthering their careers. Thank you to all of the sponsors, contractors and material providers of the Academy. A big thank you to Minnesota State Community and Technical College, Moorhead Community and Technical College Foundation, North Dakota State College of Science and Rural Minnesota CEP, Inc. for supporting this program.

www.hbafm.com

Herdina Academy Construction Trades

SUPPORTERS Accent Contracting

Camrud-Foss Concrete Constr., Inc. City of Fargo

Cote Mechanical, LLC

Dakota Construction of Fargo, Inc. Dakota Supply Group

Dave Anderson Construction Dietrich Homes, Inc. Eid-Co Buildings

Foam Doctorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s, LLC Heritage Homes ISR Homes

Kochmann Brothers Homes, Inc. Labor Masters

Lavelle Company

Lemke Home Improvements, Inc. Matrix Properties Corporation

Minnesota State Community and Technical College North Dakota State College of Science One Hour Heating & Air Conditioning and Benjamin Franklin Plumbing Opatril Concrete Construction Inc. Opp Construction

Red River Electric, Inc.

Revive Contracting, Inc.

Thank you Adopt-A-Student Sponsors! George Blank, Structural Materials, Inc. Toby Christensen, Camrud-Foss Concrete Constr. Inc. Clay Dietrich, Dietrich Homes, Inc. Jason Eid, Eid-Co Buildings, Inc. Harry Gilbertson, Harry Gilbertson Construction John Gunkelman, Dakota Construction of Fargo, Inc.

Darrick Guthmiller, Kochmann Brothers Homes, Inc. Ryan Hoss, Matrix Properties Corporation Nancy Kelly, Labor Masters Dave Kraemer, Minnesota State Community and Technical College Tom Spaeth, Accent Contracting Jeff Swenson, Twin City Garage Door, Inc. Dustin Ulmer, Roers Construction and Development, Inc. Mark Wentz, Graybar

Robert Gibb & Sons, Inc.

Roers Construction and Development, Inc. Rural Minnesota CEP

Sig Olson & Sons Plastering, Inc. Solutions

Stenerson Lumber

Structural Materials, Inc.

Swenson Masonry

Twin City Garage Door, Inc. Western Products, Inc.

Workforce Safety & Insurance

www.hbafm.com

LETTER FROM THE PRESIDENT

Home Builder’s Care of FargoMoorhead Foundation Works to Build New Scholarship Program In June, Home Builders Care was Dan Parrow, ISR Homes Home Builders Care Foundation of Fargo-Moorhead 1802 32nd Avenue South Fargo, ND 58103 Phone: (701) 232-5846 Fax: (701) 280-1108 www.hbcfm.com Home Builders Care Foundation was created in 1993 by the Home Builders Association of Fargo-Moorhead. It is a local 501(c)3 nonprofit charitable organization. It was established with funds donated by HBA members, fundraising events and the HBA itself. The purpose for its creation was to provide an outlet for the builder, remodeler, and companies related to the building industry to show the community that there is more to the building industry than demolition, construction and remodeling. The HBA handles the administratvie duties for the foundation at no charge. Any contribution designated to the foundation goes directly to the foundation and its charitable work.

President Dan Parrow, ISR Homes Vice President Bob Kochmann, Kochmann Brothers Homes, Inc. Secretary Casey Beckerleg, Stenerson Lumber Treasurer Monica Hart, Monica Hart Interior Design TRUSTEES Dave Anderson, Dave Anderson Construction Dan Beecher, Foam Doctor’s, LLC Carl Blank, Structural Materials, Inc. Randy Cramer, NAI North Central Sylvia Lunski, Design Direction, Inc. Chad Maloy, Gate City Bank Brad Morris, Casselton Lumber Dustin Murray, Dustin Murray Construction Past President Mike Anderson, Bierschbach Equipment & Supply

Address inquiries to Jenny Erickson 1802 32nd Avenue South Fargo, ND 58103 Phone: (701) 232-5846 Fax: (701) 280-1108 jenny@hbafm.com

proud to award a $500 scholarship to Herdina Academy for the Construction Trades student, Seth Martin, of Moorhead. Martin, will be a senior at Moorhead High School and is interested in studying HVAC after graduation. In addition to academic scholarships, Home Builders Care is working to develop a merit-based scholarship for Herdina Academy graduates. Through experience, the scholarship committee has found that not all students are able to write a winning application, and some might not have the family support to encourage them to apply. The Herdina Academy provides us with first-hand knowledge of the student’s work ethic, interest and personality. Contractors are able to develop relationships with the students that can be fostered and continue to support the student through a technical program and into the workforce. Students from this year’s Herdina Academy will be considered for our first merit-awards. If anyone is interested in acting as a mentor or helping to support Seth Martin, Herdina Academy for the Construction the students as they apply for school, Trades student and $500 scholarship recipient. please contact Jenny Erickson at (701) 232-5846 or jenny@hbafm.com. In addition to scholarships for students at both Minnesota State Community and Technical College and North Dakota State College of Science, Home Builders Care is considering options to more fully support construction programs at these schools. Construction-related programs are expensive, and while their students are vital to the economy, the programs are difficult to maintain for a college system. Diesel programs at both M State and NDSCS are well-supported by the industry. While we, as homebuilders, are not on the same level as a diesel manufacturer, we do have an Association and a Foundation. Association leaders met with M State to discuss how a collaborative system might be in place to help interest students in construction-related programs, keep them in program and then offer students jobs. An article about our meeting in on page 17. As our relationships continue to evolve with our local tech schools and four-year universities, it is more important than ever for the members to let us know of their workforce needs. The Association is the voice of the industry. Part of what we need to communicate is the need for workers to our local post-secondary schools and the legislatures that govern them.

Dan Parrow HBC President ISR Homes 24

www.hbafm.com

Golfers Enjoy a Day on the Golf Course Despite Rainy Weather June 16 brought rainy weather to the HBA of F-M’s

WINNING TEAM

first golf outing this summer. Despite the weather, HBA members brought a fun and light-hearted attitude! Thank you to everyone that participated and stayed to the end. Over 100 members participated throughout the day. The HBA’s next golf outing is July 14. Below is a list of game-on-a-hole winners.

Games on a Hole Winners

Hole #1 – Gate City Bank – Norwegian Golf - $50 gift card • Charlie Funfar, Funfar Construction, Inc. Hole #2 – Bell State Bank & Trust – Longest Drive $50 Scheels gift card • Todd Olson, Gate City Bank Hole #5 - Stone Countertop Outlet - Bean Bag Golf $50 Applebees gift card • Brent Atkins, Minnkota Windows Hole #6 - Luxury Designs - Minute to Win it - $50 Santa Lucia gift card • Levi Otis, Ellingson Companies Hole #9 – TCI Insurance – Guessing Game - $50 Scheels gift card • Denise Williams, Gate City Bank Hole #12 - Rebuilding Together Fargo Moorhead Area, Inc - Hammer Toss - $50 gift card • Tari Birkelo, County 20 Storage & Transfer Hole #15 – HBA’s Most balls in the water – Golf balls • Allied Building Products Corp. team Hole #15 - HBA’s Closest to the Pin - Pro Shop gear • Gary Anderson, Lampert Lumber Hole #18 – Norandex – Longest Putt - Windshirt • Broc Roberson, Stone Ridge Builders Red Dot Game – $50 Oxbow gift card • Perry Eidem, Allied Building Products Corp.

Charlie Funfar, Mike Montplaiser, Terry Welle, Marshall Albright

Members enjoy lunch and socialize before the shotgun start.

www.hbafm.com

Thank you Sponsors!

Door prizes donated by • • • • • • •

Cass County Abstract Company Crane Johnson Lumber Company Gate City Bank Monica Hart Interior Design NetWork Center, Inc. Rigels Stone Holding Company

Promotional bag items donated by

• Blue Cross Blue Shield of ND • Central Minnesota Credit Union • Crofton Coves (L2H Development LLC) • Gate City Bank • Marvin Windows & Doors • Minnkota Windows • NetWork Center, Inc. • Prairie Farms (L2H Development LLC) • Waterfront Kitchen & Bath (Northern Plumbing Supply)

Hole Sponsors

• Aggregate Industries – North Central Region • Alerus Financial • Allied Building Products Corp. • Anderson & Fercho, PLLC • Appraisal Services Inc. • Arvig • Bell State Bank & Trust • Butler Machinery Company • Carpet World • Cass County Abstract Company • Cass County Electric Cooperative • Central Minnesota Credit Union

• Crane Johnson Lumber Company • Crofton Coves, LLC (L2H Development LLC) • Dakota Fastening • Dawson Insurance • Designer Homes of FargoMoorhead • DJ Colter Agency- American Family Insurance • Enclave Development LLC • Fargo Truss Systems, Inc. • Ferguson Bath, Kitchen & Lighting Showroom • First International Bank & Trust • FM Home & Patio, Inc. • Gate City Bank • Goodin Company • Hebron Brick Supply • Lampert Lumber • Luxury Designs • Mid-States Truss Company • Minnkota Windows, Inc. • NetWork Cabling Services, Inc. • Network Center, Inc. • Norandex • Prairie Farms (L2H Development LLC) • Rebuilding Together FargoMoorhead Area, Inc. • Sandman Consulting PC • Stone Countertop Outlet • Stone Holding Company • TCI Insurance • Waterfront Kitchen & Bath (Northern Plumbing Supply)

Birdie Sponsor

Beverage Sponsor

Lunch Sponsors

Registration & Cart Sponsors

Dinner Sponsor

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NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF HOME BUILDERS

EPA and Corps Water Rule Fails to Follow Intent of Congress and Supreme Court Precendent June 4, 2015 The National Association of Home Builders told Congress today that the final rule redefining the scope of waters protected under the Clean Water Act by the Environmental Protection Agency and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers falls well short of providing the clarity and certainty that the regulated community seeks. Testifying on behalf of NAHB before the House Science, Space and Technology Committee, Bob Kerr, president of Kerr Environmental Services, an environmental consulting and water resources engineering firm based in Virginia Beach, Va., said the rule fails to follow the intent of Congress and Supreme Court precedent, and it does not acknowledge the states’ role in regulating their own waters. “This rule will increase federal regulatory power over private property and will lead to increased permit requirements, project delays and avoidance and mitigation costs,” said Kerr. “Equally important, these changes will not significantly improve water quality because much of the rule improperly encompasses water features that the states already have the authority to regulate.” The rule, which will go into effect by mid-August, establishes a broad definition of tributaries which, for the first time, includes ditches. It will also allow federal agencies to regulate adjacent non-wetlands located more than a quarter-mile from a traditional navigable water and isolated ponds located within the 100-year floodplain. Kerr expressed concern that the increased regulation under the new rule will harm his business because the additional layers of red tape will add more time and money to projects he takes on. Moreover, his firm no longer 28

offers clients a fixed rate to obtain an expedited Section 404 Nationwide Permit because it is too difficult to secure those permits in a predictable length of time. This new rule only exacerbates this situation. “Not knowing their permitting costs in advance increases the financial risk for my clients,” he said. “In some cases, they will decide not to pursue projects as a result. That is not good for my business.” Stating that the Supreme Court has twice affirmed that the Clean Water Act places limits on federal authority and that the rule permits the federal government to supplant the role of the states in regulating intrastate waters, Kerr called on Congress to act now. The House recently passed legislation that would force the EPA and the Corps to withdraw this rule and develop a new plan after the agencies go back and consult with state and local governments, conduct discussions with small business stakeholders as mandated under the Regulatory Flexibility Act, and produce an accurate cost-benefit analysis. Companion legislation, S. 1140, the Federal Water Quality Protection Act, is pending in the Senate. “Enacting the Senate bill gets us back on track to where we need to be, which is establishing a workable and sound definition of ‘waters of the United States,’” said Kerr.

Fix the Lead Paint Rule, NAHB Tells EPA

June 4, 2015 The lack of a reliable lead paint test kit continues to have potentially disastrous consequences for home owners – and it’s time for federal regulators to take action, NAHB told representatives of the Environmental Protection Agency today. Remodeler Bob Hanbury, a 40-year veteran of the industry and longtime NAHB leader, brought the Federation’s concerns about the lack of an affordable, reliable lead paint test kit to EPA during a special meeting of regulators, health advocates and building industry representatives in Washington, D.C. Without an affordable, reliable lead paint test kit, remodelers are forced to presume the presence of lead paint in all pre-1978 housing. Add that to the fact that there is no longer an “opt-out” provision in the Lead: Renovation, Repair and Painting (RRP) rule for work done in homes not occupied by children under six or pregnant women – the “target population” of the rule, and the result is that remodelers must use the more expensive lead-safe work practices in all homes built before 1978. EPA’s own estimates say that only 24 percent of homes built between 1960 and 1977 contain lead-based paint. That means that “76 percent of the time, the rule is being applied in a home never intended to be covered by the RRP rule,” Hanbury pointed out. The result: Home owners are paying for services they don’t need – or choosing unprofessional, fly-by-night contractors willing to flaunt the law, a potentially dangerous situation that “doesn’t provide the desired health benefits or mitigate a hazard to pregnant women or children under six,” Hanbury said. Hanbury offered two immediate solutions for regulators: • Limit the regulation’s scope to homes built before 1960, which have a greater likelihood of containing lead paint. • Revisit the opt-out provision so the lead-safe practices are focused on homes where young children under the age of six and pregnant women are actually present. EPA also needs to conduct a new economic analysis reflecting the reality of the RRP program. EPA had estimated that once reliable test kits were available — which it thought would be by 2011 — the number of work sites covered by the rule would be cut in half from about 14 million to 7 million. That hasn’t happened, and as a result, it has created an unnecessary burden on EPA Lead Safe Certified Renovators and their clients. For additional information about RRP, visit nahb.org/leadpaint or contact Tamra Spielvogel at 800-368-5242 ext. 8327.

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Builder Confidence Hits Yearly High in June June 15, 2015

Builder confidence in the market for newly built, single-family homes in June rose five points to a level of 59 on the National Association of Home Builders/Wells Fargo Housing Market Index (HMI) released today. This is the highest reading since September 2014. “Builders are reporting more serious and committed buyers at their job sites and this is reflected in recent government data showing that new-home sales and single-family construction are gaining momentum,” said NAHB Chairman Tom Woods, a home builder from Blue Springs, Mo. “The HMI indices measuring current and future sales expectations are at their highest levels since the last quarter of 2005, indicating a growing optimism among builders that housing will continue to strengthen in the months ahead,” said NAHB Chief Economist David Crowe. “At the same time, builders remain sensitive to consumers’ ability to buy a new home.” Derived from a monthly survey that NAHB has been conducting for 30 years, the NAHB/Wells Fargo Housing Market Index gauges builder perceptions of current single-family home sales and sales expectations for the next six months as “good,” “fair” or “poor.” The survey also asks builders to rate traffic of prospective buyers as “high to very high,” “average” or “low to very low.” Scores for each component are then used to calculate a seasonally adjusted index where any number over 50 indicates that more builders view conditions as good than poor. All three HMI components posted healthy gains in June. The component gauging current sales conditions jumped seven points to 65, the index charting sales expectations in the next six months increased six points to 69, and the component measuring buyer traffic rose five points to 44. Looking at the three-month moving averages for regional HMI scores, the South and Northeast each rose three points to 60 and 44, respectively. The West posted a two-point gain to 57 while the Midwest dropped by one point to 54. Editor’s Note: The NAHB/Wells Fargo Housing Market Index is strictly the product of NAHB Economics, and is not seen or influenced by any outside party prior to being released to the public. HMI tables can be found at nahb.org/hmi. More information on housing statistics is also available at housingeconomics.com.

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HBA Member VISIONBank Offers Something Extra

by Michael Pfau, Public Affairs Intern Clients at VISIONBank are greeted by a relaxing home-like atmosphere when you enter the locally owned bank. Yet, within the seemingly normal bank ambiance sits Scout, a black lab who greets each customer with a calm collected attitude that perfectly suits the bank’s feel. VISIONBank’s President, Dan Carey, is escorted daily by two black labs, Scout and Piper, who make the days brighter for both the clients and the staff at VISIONBank. Twelve years ago, VISIONBank opened its doors in April of 2003. Just five years ago, Scout roamed the bank for the first time. Carey was training Scout daily and would bring her to the bank with him. Customers and staff enjoyed her presence so much they officially welcomed her to the VISIONBank team. Scout has settled in well and she boasts dog beds in several offices. Today, Piper, a fourteen week old puppy has also joined the team and is adjusting to the banking life style. “During closed door meetings, someone will notice Scout pressing her nose against the window and someone always gets up and lets her in,” says Vice President Brenda Jacobson. Executive Vice President Bill Kuzas and Jacobson shared that even during busy hours Scout remains calm as ever because she is incredibly well trained. Her skills are proven by her ability to ride up and down the elevator alone without leaving if

commanded to do so. She even knows which clients have her favorite treats and she perks right up when they arrive. Adjacent to VISIONBank is an empty lot where Scout and Piper enjoy getting fresh air and playing fetch. A signature trick by Scout, which Jacobson and Kuzas assure Piper will catch on to, is prancing up to the drive-through window, where she sits and waits for the teller to send her a treat through the drawer. “We have an awesome team who are dedicated to working hard for our clients; however we do enjoy having a fun work environment.” Kuzas said. Working hard for their clients and maintaining two community bank locations in Fargo, VISIONBank offers a useful tool for those building a home. The standard mortgage has a sixty day rate lock, as do many construction loans. VISIONBank offers their clients a little more, with a rate lock of up

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to eight months for construction loan financing and long term loans without paying a lock fee. Since rates have been increasing, this opportunity provides a sense of security in a rising rate environment. VISIONBank also offers Scouts Kids Club, a club for children that teaches them good saving habits. As deposits are made into a Youth Savings account or if a volunteer effort has been made, each child earns “Scout Stamps” and members can earn prizes like a plush Scout dog and various gift certificates or toys. Whether it’s a rate lock on a construction loan, a club membership for kids, or getting to know the team (including Scout and Piper), VISIONBank always offers a little something extra to its clients.

SCOUT’S TRICK!

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s un r e

nd Half o o c e om f 20 S H e 1 5: or th f A Si no t s t a n c gle, bu Fore c P e i l o m ssib ono ly a oub c E e D Th Despite GDP growth stalling in quarter one, this time due to bad weather, a port strike on the West Coast, a rising dollar and falling oil prices, the economic recovery remains intact. The poor performance of the U.S. economy from January through March was aberrant, and the incoming employment, housing, and service sector data all point to a modest economic pickup. GDP growth the rest of the year should average 2.6 percent, with growth in quarter two closer to 1.75 percent as the economy slowly rebounds from a tough quarter one. An expected pick-up in wages and oil exploration activity and possibly increased corporate Elliot Eisenberg, Ph.D., spending on plant and equipment suggest that 2015 will GraphsandLaughs, LLC probably improve as it progresses. Despite falling energy prices, household spending has been very lackluster. As a result, savings rates are up and spending on durable and non-durable goods has been weak. Simultaneously, because the strong dollar has made U.S. exports more costly abroad and imports cheaper here, manufacturing activity has slowed. And due to falling oil prices, oil exploration has plummeted, with just 646 rigs in operation, down from a high of almost 1,600 eight months ago. That said, rig counts have stopped falling and should start to rise as oil prices firm. Moreover, the labor market continues to strengthen. Voluntary quit rates are rising, the number of involuntary terminations keeps falling, and job creation, while slightly down from last year, is strong. At this rate of improvement, there will be little slack in the labor market a year from now. A definite economic bright spot thus far in 2015 has been housing, and that is due to rising household formation. After averaging roughly 1.2 million annually from 1983 through 2006, household formation averaged just 600,000 through September 2014. Since then, it has been rising at an annualized rate of 1.5 million. Add to this increasing credit availability, and housing starts should reach an annualized average rate of 1.175 million during the second half of 2015, with new singlefamily construction contributing at a pace of 775,000 units and multifamily adding 400,000. Despite being severely constrained by a lack of inventory, pending home sales are strengthening and existing home sales should continue rising by 6 percent annually as should home prices. As for inflation, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s benign but will likely slowly begin creeping up from its current anemic level. The strong dollar will not strengthen further and oil will not weaken more, thus the trends that have exerted strong deflationary pressures on imports and

energy respectively should dissipate. Moreover, as the unemployment rate falls, labor shortages will become an increasing reality and that will cause wages to rise. This should help household spending and encourage corporate investment. However, slowly rising prices and wages, albeit from very low levels, will push the Federal Reserve to raise short-term rates late this year, probably in September but possibly in December. The Federal Reserve will then raise rates very slowly thereafter due to weak global growth. Long-term rates have bottomed and 10-year Treasuries will end the year at close to 2.6 percent as the economy strengthens. In short, the economy continues to grow modestly. Short-term rates will start rising in the fall, wages are showing nascent signs of rising, and residential construction activity looks to strengthen as we go into 2016. Most critically, continued solid job creation will keep the recent rise in household formation up and the likelihood of a recession during the next six months is zero. Elliot Eisenberg, Ph.D. is President of GraphsandLaughs, LLC and can be reached at Elliot@graphsandlaughs.net. His daily 70 word economics and policy blog can be seen at www.econ70.com. You can subscribe to have the blog delivered directly to your email by visiting the website or by texting the word â&#x20AC;&#x153;BOWTIEâ&#x20AC;? to 22828.

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HBA Prepares for Fall Parade ofThe Homes 16th Annual Fall Parade of Homes is Sept. 25-26 & Oct. 3-4, hours run noon â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 5 p.m each day. The cost for a first entry is only $700 and each additional entry is $600. All entries are due by July 20. Renderings, descriptions and maps will be included in the Parade of Homes guide available starting Sept. 21 at all Hornbacherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s locations. An

insert will also be included in The Forum Sept. 20. The 4th Annual Remodeled Home Tour will also run the second weekend only, Oct. 3-4. Check out pg. 34 for more details. Fall Parade and Remodeled Home Tour sponsorships are still available! Promote your business to Builders and consumers by sponsoring this event. Your company will receive promotion and advertising through TV, radio, print, digital, social media and more! Contact Allison Weckman at (701) 232-5846 or allisonw@hbafm.com.

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REMODELERS LETTER FROMCOUNCIL THE PRESIDENT

Remodeled Home Tour: Entries Due July 20 The 4 Annual Remodeled Home Tour is Oct. 3-4 and entries are due July 20. th

Russ Richards, Rebuilding Together Fargo-Moorhead Area, Inc. Home Builders Association of FargoMoorhead Remodelers Council 1802 32nd Avenue South Fargo, ND 58103 Phone: (701) 232-5846 Fax: (701) 280-1108 www.hbafm.com Address inquiries to Allison Weckman 1802 32nd Avenue South Fargo, ND 58103 Phone: (701) 232-5846 Fax: (701) 280-1108 allisonw@hbafm.com

MEMBERS ABC Seamless Accent Contracting ACME TOOLS Allied Building Products Corp. Arvig Braaten Cabinets Inc. Crane Johnson Lumber Company Dakota Construction of Fargo, Inc. Dave Anderson Construction Design Direction, Inc. Dustin Murray Construction Fargo Linoleum Company Ferguson Bath, Kitchen & Lighting Showroom Fiske Construction, LLP Foam Doctor’s, LLC Granites Unlimited Home Heating, Plumbing & A/C, Inc. Homemakers Villa Kochmann Brothers Homes, Inc. Lake Agassiz Habitat For Humanity Laney’s, Inc. Luxury Builders/ Designs Minnkota Windows, Inc. Norandex Opp Construction Paul Davis Restoration & Remodeling of the Red River Valley Rebuilding Together Fargo-Moorhead Area, Inc. Red River Electric, Inc. RRC Specialties, Inc. Simonson Lumber Smart Spaces, Inc. Stenerson Lumber Stone Countertop Outlet Stone Holding Company Syverson Tile & Stone Twin City Garage Door, Inc. Western Products, Inc.

The Tour seeks a variety of remodeling, landscaping and home improvement projects in the Fargo-Moorhead area. If you are an HBA member and have a great project that has been completed within the last two years, this is the PERFECT event to showcase your work. This Tour provides ten times the amount of promotion for your company compared to what you could do on your own for only $600 through ads on multiple radio stations, print advertising in both magazines and newspapers, mentions on applicable Fall Parade television commercials, the HBA of F-M website and Facebook page. Plus, each entry receives a half-page in the event magazine to showcase the project and company. This all adds up to be nearly $5,000 in promotional value that you can get by being part of the Tour. There is no reason you shouldn’t take advantage of what your HBA can do to help your company promote what it does best! Contact the HBA of F-M at (701) 232-5846 or events@hbafm.com with any questions or if you’d like to enter a project. Watch your mail for the 2015 application!

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MEMBERSHIP CORNER

Midcontinent Communications Groundbreaking Highlights the Company’s $100-Million-Plus Investment in North Dakota On May 28, Midcontinent Communications hosted a groundbreaking event at its West Fargo offices. Construction is underway at the facility, which will more than double in size to accommodate 120 new employees the company is adding over a five-year period. Midcontinent is investing more than $100 million in the Fargo area and throughout North Dakota in 2014 and 2015. The following officials were invited to the event: U.S. Senator Heidi Heitkamp, N.D. U.S. Rep. Kevin Cramer, N.D. Jessica Lee, regional director for Sen. John Hoeven Commissioner Al Anderson, North Dakota Department of Commerce Mayor Rich Mattern, West Fargo Mayor Tim Mahoney, Fargo “Midcontinent is investing an estimated $72 million in Fargo

alone from 2014 through 2016, so we can deliver reliable, high-quality services that both residential and business customers are demanding,” says Justin Forde, director of public affairs in North Dakota for Midcontinent. “While we just began construction within the city of Fargo last year, we have a rich history in North Dakota. We’re proud to provide robust entertainment options and advanced technology that encourages innovation and opportunity for our great state.” Midcontinent began offering residential and business services in Fargo in August 2014 and is expanding further into the city throughout 2015. Construction for the entire city is expected to be complete by fall 2016. The company has served customers in West Fargo since 2007 and Moorhead since 2009, as well as many other communities near Fargo and throughout North Dakota.

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Thank you 2015 Member Meeting Sponsors!

Interested in being the dessert sponsor at the Awards Gala & Annual Meeting in October? Contact Allison Weckman at (701) 232-5846 or allisonw@hbafm.com

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ADVERTISER INDEX Acme Tools �� 32 Aggregate Industries �� 27 Bell State Bank & Trust �� 19 Blue Cross Blue Shield of ND �� 38 Camrud-Foss Construction �� 19 Carpet World �� 22 Cass County Abstract Company �� 38 Cass County Electric Cooperative �� 22 Central Minnesota Credit Union �� 22 Coldwell Banker �� 7 Crane Johnson Lumber Co. �� 19 Dawson Insurance �� 33 FM Title �� 22 Goodin Company �� 39 Hauck & Buchholz Drywall, Inc. �� 7 Knight Printing �� 4 Lampert Lumber �� 26 Minnkota Windows, Inc. �� 2 Northland Truss Systems �� 33 Property Resources Group �� 37 Rigels, Inc. �� 38 Stenerson Lumber �� 19 Stone Countertop Outlet �� 38 The Title Company �� 38 Valley View �� 2 Xcel �� 3 www.hbafm.com

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Home Builders Association of Fargo-Moorhead 1802 32nd Ave. S. Fargo, ND 58103 www.hbafm.com | info@hbafm.com (701) 232-5846 | (701) 280-1108 fax est. 1956

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HBA-Fargo-Moorhead

2015 Media Kit These full-color, glossy magazines feature the entries in this year’s Spring and Fall Parade of HomesTM as well as Remodeled Home Tour events. The products are distributed to those interested in building a new home, upgrading/remodeling their existing home or learning more about the latest in building, design and decor. Don’t miss this great opportunity to showcase your quality products & services in these first-class publications that are heavily promoted and have a combined readership of over 70,000 targeted households.

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The Spring magazine focuses on the Spring Parade of HomesTM event with 90 entries in 2015. The Fall magazine can be flipped over for viewing two events – the Fall Parade of HomesTM event with 48 home entries in 2014 and a growing Remodeled Home Tour event with 10 entries in 2014.

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Why Advertise in the Magazine? The Parade of Homes event is a proven, branded, heavily promoted event that attracts people looking at building, remodeling, or improving their home. DEADLINES The event is not only strong locally, but also Spring Parade Event: April 30-May 3 & May 7-10, Reserve Ad Space by Mar 21 nationally which attracts those new or planning Fall Parade & Remodeled Home Tour Event: Sept 26-27 & Oct 3-4, Reserve Ad Space by Aug 15 on moving to the area. In addition to getting in front of this important demographic, you are Ad materials are due one week after the ad reservation deadline above also supporting the home building industry and Prepayment discount of 10% (for a combined Spring & Fall ad reservation) by Mar 21 helping this key sector of our economy. If your business benefits from new home purchases or ADVERTISING RATES/SIZES Spring Fall home improvements an ad this magazine helps support and reach those involved. Full Page (Full bleed: 8.625 X 11, Trim 8.375 X 10.75, Live 7.375 X 9.75) $1,675 $1,675 1/2 Page (Horizontal: 7.75 X 4.875 bordered, Vertical: 3.75 X 10 bordered) 1/4 Page (3.75 X 4.875 bordered) 1/8 Page (3.75 X 2.325 bordered) Page 3, 5, Inside Front/Back Cover (Same as Full Page) Back Cover (Same as Full Page) 2-Page Spread (Full bleed: 17 X 11, Trim 16.75 X 10.75, Live 15.75 X 9.75)

$1,050 $1,050 $690 $690 $450 $450 $2,100 $2,100 $2,450 $2,450 $2,750 $2,750

MECHANICALS For best quality keep all content in the ad at a resolution of 300dpi or higher. Please save ads at exact size with no trim or bleed marks. E-mail ads or any questions to Russ@BuilderFusion.com.

Reserving Advertising Space To make it easy...just email Russ at Russ@BuilderFusion.com (or call him directly at 801-360-2636). In the email include the ads you are intertested in and your contact information. Russ can answer any question regarding availabilty, ad content and payment options.

Who Advertises in the Magazine? Taken from a cross section of Parade of Homes magazines from across the country, here are the top categories of business that advertise regularly in their local Parade of Homes magazine: Utility Companies & Cities, Real Estate Companies & Land Developers, Home Furnishing & Improvement Companies, Home Financing & Insurance & Processing Institutions, Home Maintenance & Protection Businesses, Builder Suppliers, Builders, Subcontractors, Home & Interior Designers, Consultants, Local Prominent Businesses.

HBA of Fargo-Moorhead asks you to make nominations for 2015

past Liste winner s d on back !

Builder & Associate of the Year

Each fall, two HBA of F-M members receive its highest honors: the Builder and Associate of the Year awards. The awards are based on work expended in the interest of fellow members, the Association and the community within the past year (Aug. 1, 2014 - July 31, 2015). These members are judged on:

1. Member Involvement and Industry Promotion (30 points) HBA of F-M involvement and what it has meant to the nominee personally and professionally over the years. The ways he/she furthers good business practices and promotes the home building industry to the general public. 2. Civic Activity (15 points) Local, state and national level participation in civic and service clubs, charitable activities, political commissions, fraternal or religious groups, etc. 3. Professional Accomplishments (20 points) For business owners, the development of his or her business from beginning to present. For employees of member companies, his/her role in the business and how he/she has developed it from the time started to the present. Also, actions taken to improve upon professionalism and/or role in the trades industry. 4. Local Association Activity (30 points) Association offices and committee work, special assignments, membership recruitment, etc. 5. State and National Association Activities (5 points) Offices held and committee work, attendance and participation at state and national conventions, director meetings, etc. Recipients of the Builder & Associate of the Year Awards will be chosen by a committee consisting of past winners, board members and HBA of F-M staff. The award will be presented at the Oct. 29 Annual Awards Gala. Local winners go on to represent the HBA of F-M for consideration in the North Dakota Association of Builders’ Builder and Associate of the Year awards selection in November.

(Please make copies of this form, if needed.) I nominate:___________________________________________________________ Name Company

Reasons for nomination:_________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________ My name/company:____________________________________________________ Submit your nomination(s) by faxing, emailing or mailing this form to the HBA of F-M office before Aug. 14, 2015. HBA of F-M 1802 32nd Ave. S. • Fargo, ND 58103 (701) 232-5846 • fax (701) 280-1108 • info@hbafm.com • www.hbafm.com

The Home Builders Association of Fargo-Moorhead promotes an environment in which members and their businesses can prosper.

Past Builder of the Year Award Winners 1982................................. Gerald Eid �� Eid-Co Buildings 1983................................. John Mahan ��Mahan Construction 1984................................. Don Barnum ��ABC Seamless 1985................................. Roy Van Raden ��Van Raden Homes 1986................................. Charles Funfar �� Funfar Construction 1987................................. Michael Duffy ��Michael Duffy Co. 1988................................. Al Carlson ��Sun Builders Ltd. 1989................................. Terry Welle ��Terry Welle Construction 1990................................. Lowell Regstad �� Regstad Construction 1991................................. Bob Rood �� Robert Rood Contracting 1993................................. Rick Duval ��Rick Duval Construction 1994................................. Paul Kochmann ��Kochmann Brothers Homes 1995................................. Stan Ryland �� Ryland Homes 1996................................. Dan Passolt �� Paragon Builders 1997................................. Bob Footitt �� Bob Footitt Construction 1998................................. Mike Bullinger �� Western Products 2002................................. Dave Anderson �� Dave Anderson Construction 2004................................. Vern Hanson ��Hanson Bros., Inc. 2005................................. Mike Arnold ��Accent Contracting 2006................................. Kenneth Andersen �� KWA Constructors, Inc. 2007................................. Dan Lindquist �� Dan Lindquist Construction, Inc. 2008................................. Tyrone Leslie ��Heritage Homes 1992, 1999....................... Bob Kochmann ��Kochmann Brothers Homes 2000, 2003 ...................... Don Dabbert, Jr. ��Contemporary Builders, Inc. 2001, 2009, 2010............. John Gunkelman ��Dakota Construction of Fargo, Inc. 2011................................. Jason Eid ��Eid-Co Buildings, Inc. 2012................................. Dave Anderson �� Dave Anderson Construction 2013................................. Darrick Guthmiller �� Kochmann Brothers Homes, Inc. 2014................................. Carlita Dietz �� Jay Dietz Construction, Inc.

Past Associate of the Year Award Winners

1982................................. Bob Rood �� Consolidated Building Supply 1983................................. Rod Paseka �� Hebron Brick Supply 1984................................. Vince Haugen �� Haugen Masonry 1985................................. Ross Mathews �� Mathews Electric Company 1986................................. Dick Alsop �� Interior Lumber Company 1987................................. Fred Ishaug ��Star Concrete 1988................................. Jeff Swenson ��Twin City Garage Door 1989................................. Pete Polansky ��Hebron Brick Supply Company 1990................................. Phil McShane ��First Interstate Bank 1991................................. Dale Long �� Sears Contract Sales 1992................................. Bob Steckroat �� Mid-States Truss Company 1993................................. Chuck Huck ��Red River Electric, Inc. 1995................................. Marshal Albright �� Cass County Electric Cooperative 1996................................. Ryan Hoss ��Baker Nursery 1997................................. Gary Opp ��Opp Construction 1998................................. Rob Lyngstad �� E.W. Wylie Corporation 1999................................. Tim O’Leary ��Northern States Power 2000................................. Mark Calawerts ��Pella Windows & Doors 2001................................. Bruce Clapham �� Charleswood, Inc. 2002................................. Pat McManus ��McManus & Associates 2003................................. Jane Volk ��Gate City Bank 1994, 2004....................... Ken Krajsa �� State Bank & Trust 2005................................. Brent Atkins �� Minnkota Windows, Inc. 2006................................. LaVonne Selberg �� Nodak Stores 2007................................. Peggy Palmes �� TRN Abstract & Title 2008................................. Nancy Kelly �� Command Center 2009................................. John Vastag �� Laney’s, Inc. 2010................................. Toby Christensen ��Camrud Foss Concrete Constr., Inc. 2011................................. John Koerselman.............................. Red River Drywall & Painting Services, Inc. 2012................................. Sylvia Lunski �� Design Direction, Inc. 2013................................. Terry Lipp...................................... Ferguson Bath, Kitchen & Lighting Showroom 2014................................. Robin Swanson �� Superior Insurance

HBA of F-M Associate members! It’s time to nominate your favorite HBA of F-M Builder member(s) for the

BEAM Award BUILDERS ENGAGING ASSOCIATE MEMBERS

Which Builders exemplify ‘It’s good business to do business with a member?’

he National Association of Home Builders “BEAM” (Builders Engaging Associate Members) award is an honor bestowed on one Builder (or local entity) chosen by a committee of Associate members as the one who personifies the motto, “It’s good business to do business with a member.” The HBA of F-M names a winner on the local level that advances to the state (North Dakota Association of Builders) level, and possibly to the national level. The Builder member nominees will be evaluated for the business period of May 31, 2014 – June 1, 2015, on: • Loyalty • Ethics • Trust • Communication • Consideration Two Builder members who receive the most nominations will be notified and asked to submit their list of suppliers/trade contractors. HBA of F-M staff will compare those lists, and send common companies the Builder evaulation form. A committee of past HBA of F-M Associates of the Year reviews the evaluations and chooses a winner.

Loyalty

My BEAM Nominations: 1.__________________________ 2.__________________________ 3.__________________________ 4.__________________________ 5.__________________________ Submitted by: Associate Member/

Nominator Name (required):________________________________________ Company:_______________________________________________________

Submittal deadline: Aug. 14, 2015

Return form to: HBA of F-M, 1802 32nd Ave. S., Fargo, N.D. 58103 Fax (701) 280-1108 or info@hbafm.com Questions? Contact Krista Mund at (701) 232-5846 or kristam@hbafm.com.

Past Winners • • • •

2014: Kochmann Brothers Homes, Inc. 2013: Kochmann Brothers Homes, Inc. 2012: John Gunkelman, Dakota Construction of Fargo, Inc. 2011: Hanson Bros., Inc.

•

You must be an Associate or Associate Affiliate HBA of F-M member (not a Builder) to make nominations. You must provide your name on this nomination form. You can nominate up to five Builder members. You must submit your nominations by Aug. 14, 2015.

Remember! • • •

Trust

Consideration

Ethics

Communication

To see a list of eligible HBA of F-M Builder members, visit www.hbafm.com. Click “Directory,” and search by Member Type: “Builder”.