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Friday, January 29, 2010
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Volume 4 l No. 3
www.cvbusinessmonthly.com
BUSINESS MONTHLY columns Page 5
Jim Offner Fuel and transportation sectors key to region’s future.
Page 13 University of Northern Iowa UNI explores conservation on and off campus.
Page 23 Wartburg College At Wartburg, they may Be Orange, but they’re going green.
BUSINESS MONTHLY staff directory EDITORIAL CONTENT Nancy Raffensperger Newhoff nancy.newhoff@wcfcourier.com (319) 291-1445
ADVERTISING Jackie Nowparvar jackie.nowparvar@wcfcourier.com (319) 291-1527
Jim Offner jim.offner@wcfcourier.com (319) 291-1598
Sheila Kerns sheila.kerns@wcfcourier.com (319) 291-1448 Bret Danielson bret.danieolson@wcfcourier.com (319) 291-1403
Cedar Valley Business Monthly is published monthly. It is a free publication direct-mailed to more than 6,500 area businesses. For distribution, call Courier Communications at (319) 291-1527 Contact Cedar Valley Business Monthly at P.O. Box 540, Waterloo, IA 50704.
BUSINESS MONTHLY on the cover GM says the new Chevrolet Volt is expected to get 230 miles per gallon and will go 40 miles exclusively on battery power with its lithium ion pack fully charged. The car is expected to cost between $35,000 and $40,000.
RICK CHASE / Courier Staff Photographer
Matt Halbur of Rydell Chevrolet in Waterloo holds a photograph of the new Chevrolet Volt.
A jolt from Volt
GM has high hopes for new high-mileage hybrid By JIM OFFNER jim.offner@wcfcourier.com
WATERLOO — General Motors Corp. says it expects its new Chevrolet Volt to get 230 miles per gallon, but certainly the automaker’s marketing efforts behind the new plug-in hybrid model are generating higher numbers than that. Other numbers have garnered some attention: ■ GM said in December it is investing $700 million in Michigan to build the Volt and its components. ■ The car, which GM says will go 40 miles exclusively on battery power, with its lithium ion
pack fully charged, is expected to cost between $35,000 and $40,000. That price range could keep many away, but the company said tax incentives for buyers are expected to make it more affordable as the company ramps up manufacturing and lowers its costs. ■ Plugging the car into a standard outlet for eight hours is supposed to charge the car up for another 40-mile trip. ■ Perhaps the biggest number for local dealers who will receive Volts is 10 — as in Nov. 10. That’s the date GM has announced it will officially launch the model. “This represents a new page in the automotive industry,” said
Matt Halbur, executive manager of Rydell Chevrolet in Waterloo. Halbur said his dealership is “super excited” about getting a chance to sell the plug-in hybrid because of the turning point the model represents in automotive technology. “The new Volt will be a cornerstone for the next decade of vehicles that will be offered by Rydell Chevrolet,” Halbur said. “The Volt is a cultural change in the way we drive, resources we use, and how we protect the environment we live in.” The new technology is the latest step in the blending of
See VOLT, page 7
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Energy-efficient high-intensity fluorescent lighting pays for itself In energy circles, it’s often said energy is the economic engine that drives the world’s economy. If true, we’re in for a bumpy ride. According to the Energy Information Administration, worldwide energy demand is poised to increase 35 percent by 2030 as developing nations like China and India modernize and expand Jamie Chapman their economic of Energy Systems of output. Iowa can be reached To meet this at 319) 239-1823 demand, it’s or jchapman@esoia. estimated eleccom. tric utilities will have to make an infrastructure investment of up to $2 trillion. The staggering costs will likely be passed on to ratepayers. Energy efficiency can help alleviate costs by reducing strain on the stressed electric grid and reducing costs for users of energy-efficient technologies. And the technology to achieve
these goals is available in energy-efficient, high-intensity discharge lighting for commercial and industrial facilities. Commercial and industrial lighting makes up 65 percent of all the lighting used in the United States. In 2005, commercial and industrial facilities spent $42 billion on electricity for lighting. The EIA estimates that as of 2003, 455,000 commercial or industrial buildings in the U.S. still utilized traditional, inefficient lighting systems. With an average of 500 lights per facility, that’s more than 227 million inefficient lighting fixtures. If each of these facilities would replace traditional lighting systems with energy-efficient highintensity fluorescent lighting, — it would displace more than 55,000 megawatts of power from the electric grid — or the equivalent of 111 power plants. And the payback period in a large majority of the retrofit projects is less than two years. Even more powerful is that when fluorescent lighting systems are integrated with the latest wireless controls and solar daylighting technology, the capac-
ity delivered could be as much as 81,000 megawatts, or equivalent to more than 160 power plants. That’s the air-scrubbing equivalent of 111 million acres of trees, removing 97.8 million cars from the road or saving more than 50 billion gallons of gasoline annually, according to the Environmental Protection Agency. While many companies are waiting for technologies like solar, wind and biomass to become economically viable, thousands are already reaping the benefits of energy efficiency by reducing costs and positively affecting the environment. The benefits of energy-efficient fluorescent lighting go
Energy Systems of Iowa and its parent company, Orion Energy Systems of Manitowoc, Wis., are leaders in providing energy solutions — including highintensity fluorescent lighting — to companies throughout the Greater Cedar Valley area and beyond. Orion is a recognized expert in the energy-efficiency industry, having deployed its proprietary energy systems in more than 5,000 facilities, including 120 of the Fortune 500, and has saved its customers more than $710 million in energy costs, and helped prevent more than 6.1 million tons of carbon dioxide from entering the atmosphere.
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beyond economics and environment. Fluorescent lighting has been proven to increase employee morale and productivity. After all, would you rather work under the traditional high-intensity discharge lights that produce a dark, yellow-orange hue, or new lighting technology that produces a bright, crisp light often compared to sunlight at noon? Some advantages of the natural light produced by high-intensity fluorescents include: ■ Reduced worker illnesses and injury. ■ Enhanced productivity. visual acuity, ■ Improved reduced eyestrain and fewer headaches.
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Fuel, transportation keys to area’s future This is shaping up to be an ideal year in which to blend automotive and energy sectors. The two always have gone hand-in-hand anyway. Now more than ever, the focus on changes within both businesses Jim Offner is growing more is The Courier intense. “Green� business editor. is the new magic Contact him at word in energy jim.offner@ production and wcfcourier.com. consumption. Wind power has put Iowa in the center of conversations about renewable power generation. Biofuels are powering more of the agriculture sector than ever before, both as fuel and source of revenue. The Cedar Valley TechWorks project is concrete evidence this ag-based region is pinning its economic future on renewable fuels. We’re not just talking about a curiosity here; it’s big business. TechWorks itself is a $39 million investment in the Cedar Valley economy, a brick-and-mortar testament that bio-based fuels will play a vital role in the region’s economic future. People are paying attention, too, because everybody still needs to get around and —as the seasonal Arctic blasts have reminded us — keep warm. There is more talk than ever of rail travel returning to the Cedar Valley. One of the centerpieces of the Greater Cedar Valley Alliance’s legislative wish list is to bring passenger train service back to the area, connecting the region with Chicago, Cedar Rapids, Iowa City and, ultimately, all points west. “We just know that as long as there’s this federal money out there, that if there were a way for us to try to tap into that, with the help of the DOT and the like, we could try to benefit from that in
the Cedar Valley, as opposed to being one of the last communities in the nation to get hooked up to the Interstate system,� Steve Firman, the alliance’s director of government relations, said after the group met with members of the local legislative delegation. The energy sector also is staring at more ominous spectres, with some federal lawmakers still pushing the punitive cap-andtrade provisions that hammer regions like the Midwest that depend heavily on coal and other fossil fuels. Cap-and-trade punishes businesses and consumers, alike, so the business community will have to be watchful that Congress or federal bureaucrats not impose such a punitive policy on it and its customers. The automotive industry will reach a crossroads this year when General Motors launches its long-anticipated plug-in hybrid model, the Chevrolet Volt. The technology puts a different spin on hybrid automotive technology, long associated with Toyota and its Prius. In the latter, the car is powered by a gasoline engine, assisted by a battery pack. GM’s idea creates a car that is powered by a battery pack, assisted by a small gasoline-powered engine. Expect other innovations in the automotive industry to follow. If the Volt is a success, GM stands to earn credit for creating a milestone in automotive technology. A hint of where the region is headed in these two crucial areas can be found in this month’s issue of the Cedar Valley Business Monthly. From efficient home energy to cutting-edge automotive technology, from power generation to conservation, the pages of this month’s edition are rife with an array of business perspectives. The contributors to this month’s Business Monthly should provide a clue to where the region is headed in these important areas.
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Green winterization tips for attic insulation, ventilation Whether you are building a new home or improving your existing home, adding additional insulation to an attic is often one of the most costeffective strategies for improving the energy performance of a home. Not only will the added insulation reduce heating and air Dave Bartlett conditioning is owner of Dave Bartlett Construction bills, it will also Inc. in Cedar Falls. improve comContact him at fort by helping (319) 268-9501, to seal air leaks. 231-6495 or dave@ Most of us davebartlett know hot air construction.com. rises; however, many homeowners neglect to inspect their attic for proper attic insulation. Improperly installed or inadequate attic insulation is a leading cause of heat loss in the home. The homeowner should check to see if the attic insulation is adequate. Increasing your home’s attic insulation from three to 12 inches can save you
up to 20 percent in your heating bills. The recommended level for most attics is to insulate to a minimum of R-38 or about 10 to 14 inches, depending on insulation type. Check with your utility company to see if they are offering any rebates on insulation and what the requirements are.
Types of blown-in insulation
The two commonly used types of blown-in attic insulation are cellulose and fiberglass. Cellulose is a natural wood product and made primarily from recycled newspaper with a fire retardant chemical is added. Blown-in fiberglass insulation is the same type of material that is found in batts or rolls of insulation, except it is chopped or cubed so that it can be installed with an insulation blowing machine. Fiberglass insulation is typically 20 percent to 30 percent recycled glass The R-value of loose fill cellulose is R-3.2 to 3.8 per inch. Loose fill fiberglass has an R-value of R-2.2 to 2.7 per inch. Achieving the desired R-value depends on both the depth of the insulation and its density. A properly insu-
lated attic should have at least 10 Ice dams, attic ventilation to 12 inches of cellulose or 14 to 17 Ice dams are a common probinches of fiberglass. lem in cold climates. They can cause thousands of dollars in The right kind of insulation roof leaks and structural damage. When adding additional insu- They can also create dangerous lation, you do not have to use the mold growth which can cause or same type already in your attic. aggravate allergies, asthma and You can add loose fill on top of other respiratory diseases. Ice fiberglass batts and vice-versa. If dams occur when the underyou use fiberglass over loose fill, side of the roof is warm above make sure the fiberglass batt has the living space of the home, it no paper or foil backing; it needs causes the snow to melt until it to be “unfaced.” If you choose to reaches the overhangs. Once that add loose fill, it may be wise to occurs, ice is formed because the hire a professional, as applica- roof over the overhangs is colder. tion requires the use of a blowing Water then pools above the ice machine. Some lumber yards and near the overhangs and seeps rental companies rent out the under the shingles. Ideally, the entire roof deck machines. Use attic rafter vents (Styrofoam chutes) to insure the should remain as cold as the insulation does not block soffit overhangs to eliminate any meltvents. It is important to maintain ing. This will allow the snow to air flow from the soffits to the dissipate or melt evenly from the sun. Proper ventilation in attic to prevent ice dams.
the attic is just as important as adequate insulation. Rather than heating the roof, the goal is to keep it cold so snow on the roof evaporates without making large amounts of meltwater. The best way to maintain low temperatures in your attic is adequate insulation and sealing gaps that let warm air pass into the attic from the house. The attic must also be well ventilated so cold air is introduced into it and heated air escapes. Keeping the underside of the roof below 30 degrees is essential to prevent ice dams. If you wish to make your home or business more energy efficient, check with a local building contractor to evaluate your attic insulation and ventilation. You will not only feel good about reducing energy bills and “going green,” you will also feel good about saving money.
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VOLT
From page 3 “green” manufacturing and energy-dependent business. Halbur expects much more to come in the future — and not just from GM. “I expect other auto manufacturers to come up with something like that, too,” he said. “They’ll have their own version at some point.” Halbur said his dealership already is fielding plenty of questions about the Volt. “Most are about the time of arrival,” he said. “We tell everybody the same thing, that the launch is Nov.10. “ But, the questions keep coming, he said. “This car has piqued customer curiosity more than any other vehicle that I can recall in recent years besides, of course, the Camaro,” he said. He pointed out that GM’s www. chevy.com and chevroletvoltage. com Web sites provide plenty of information about the car. Sticker shock doesn’t seem to figure into concerns about the plug-in hybrid, Halbur added. “We haven’t seen an actual price on the vehicle. The only
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thing we’ve heard is the tax incentives.” He said buyers would qualify for a $7,500 tax credit. “I don’t see the price being a huge barrier for the sale of this automobile because of the technology and true cost of ownership savings it will provide,” he said. GM is expected to announce an actual retail price for the Volt sometime in the third quarter, Halbur said. Halbur said his dealership plans to sell “a lot” of Volts. Dealers will have to educate would-be customers about the advantages of the Volt’s technology, Halbur noted. But the challenge will be no more difficult than selling other types of vehicles. “It will be like most other vehicles we have available for sale,” he said. “Many people can’t justify spending $45,000 or $ 50,000 on a Suburban until they get demonstration of how it will benefit their wants and needs, (and) this car will be no different in that respect. There will be features on this car that cannot be found on any other vehicle on the market and, for that, the education will be provided in detail.”
➽ Graduate in four years ➽ Great financial aid and scholarships
Be Orange The Value of a Wartburg Education Eboni Coats ’11 Collins, Mississippi “Participating in service trips at Wartburg has helped strengthen my duty to civic engagement. Now that’s Be Orange value at Wartburg College.”
“I have the opportunity to be involved in multiple activities, such as dance team, psychology club and service projects. Now that’s Be Orange value at Wartburg College.”
324 Duryea Street • Waterloo, IA 50701 Phone: 319-236-0467 • Fax: 319-274-8308 www.wwscusa.com
Michelle Fiene ’11 Waverly “I had a summer internship in Denver, Colorado, and got valuable work experience. Now that’s Be Orange value at Wartburg College.”
Chondraah Holmes ’11 Waterloo
Rachel Pins ’12 Dubuque
Providing Third Party Integrated Logistics, Public Warehousing JIT Services, Trucking, and Reclaim Service
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“Being a resident assistant at Wartburg College taught me the importance of strong and caring communities. Now that’s Be Orange value at Wartburg College.”
Abhay Nadipuram ’10 Waterloo “I went to Guyana to start a bed-and-hammocknet project to prevent malaria. Now that’s Be Orange value at Wartburg College.”
www.wartburg.edu.
➽ Small class sizes ➽ Outstanding job/graduate school placement ➽ A close community
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Geothermal a green way to heat homes According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, geothermal systems are, â&#x20AC;&#x153;the most energy-efficient, environmentally clean, and costeffective space conditioning systems availTim Hanson able today.â&#x20AC;? is salesman with Young Plumbing & Extreme effiHeating in Waterloo. ciency is posContact him at (319) sible because 234-4411. a geothermal heat pump only uses electricity to move heat, not produce it. A geothermal unit typically supplies four to five kilowatts of heat for every kilowatt
of electricity used. Three to four of these kilowatts of heat come directly from the earth, and are clean, free and renewable. The other kilowatt is used to power the compressor, fan and controls. Geothermal heat pumps also take advantage of the mild ground temperature for extremely high efficiency cooling. Most systems include a hotwater generator, which delivers a portion of the heat to the water heater. This provides a substantial portion of a familyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s hot water needs at a very low cost. Overall, geothermal technology offers the highest cooling and heating efficiency of any system available. Geothermal systems transfer heat from your home to the earth in the cooling mode, or
from the earth to your home in the heating mode. Water/antifreeze is used as the heat transfer medium through a closed loop plastic piping system buried in the ground. By using this stable thermal source, geothermal heat pumps provide comfort year round without a noisy outdoor fan or a flue. The loop is important; if it is not sized properly you could see higher heating bills than you should or possible freezing in the loop field. The environmental advantages of geothermal systems have caught the eye of governmental agencies such as the EPA and the Department of Energy. Because geothermal technology has the lowest CO2 emissions, it provides a solution to global
warming by primarily using the natural energy of the earth. Zero ozone depletion refrigerant is also available for an even friendlier system. Geothermal is being used in homes and businesses more and
more. Local utilities offer some great rebates; there are also residential tax credits available for 30 percent of the cost. with no cap on the cost. Tax credits for residential furnace and air conditioners have a $1,500 cap.
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Energy-saving windows offered in many options What’s an energy efficient window? Most will have at a minimum: ■ Doublepane insulated glass. ■ H e at-resistant (low-E) glass coating. ■ Airtight Carol J. frames. Crandall ■ Energy Star is with Crandall Inc. rating. in Waterloo. Three dimenContact her at (319) 236-3336. sions of energyefficient windows are glass, spacer and frame. Glass — Low-E glass contributes to energy efficiency by deflecting heat to its source. Spacer — Insulating spacers between the panes of glass reduce heat transfer and condensation. Frame — The fixed window frame holds the sash or casement and hardware. A properly designed frame helps minimize thermal transfer through the window. Dual-pane glass designs use an air- or gas-filled space between two panes of glass. This insulates much better than a single pane. Special low-E coating on the glass blocks infrared light to keep heat inside in the window and outside in the summer. It also filters damaging ultraviolet light to help protect interior furnishings from fading. A spacer keeps a window’s dual glass panes the correct distance
apart for optimal airflow between panes. Too much or too little airflow can affect the insulating efficiency. The design and material of the spacer can make a big difference in the ability to handle expansion and contraction and thus reduce condensation. Frame material is an important consideration. Two of the more energy efficient frame materials are vinyl and fiberglass. They do a particularly good job of reducing heat transfer and contributing to insulation value. Your decision on which to use may be based on aesthetics and cost. Look for vinyl or fiberglass frames that have been specifically engineered for performance. For instance, both can be designed with chambers within the frame that enhance strength, noise reduction and insulation value. Energy Star is a joint program of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the U.S. Department of Energy. Its mission is to help us save money and protect the environment through energy-efficient products and practices. There are strict guidelines for Energy Star qualified products. In 2007 alone, Energy Star helped Americans save more than $16 billion on utility bills. Many states and other governmental bodies, utilities and organizations offer rebates, tax credits and other special offers when you buy Energy Star qualified products. For more information on Energy Star qualified products, visit www.energystar.gov.
Cities receive water-quality loans DES MOINES — The Iowa Finance Authority recently awarded 14 entities a total of more than $2.6 million in no-interest planning and design water infrastructure loans. Among municipalities in Northeast Iowa to receive funds were Beaman, $28,000 for drinking water; Hampton, $376,000,
wastewater; and Hudson, $234,500, drinking water. The loans will assist the communities with planning expenses including engineering fees, archaeological surveys, environmental or geological studies and costs related to drinking and waste water project plan preparation.
Davidson
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The University of Northern Iowa has many talented faculty, staff and students who are willing to share their expertise. UNI’s Speakers Bureau is a great resource for community organizations, businesses and industries looking for speakers at meetings, summits, conferences and more. More than 200 topics can be found in the categories listed below. If you don’t see what you’re looking for, let us know, we’re happy to assist. To request a speaker, contact the Office of University Marketing & Public Relations at 319-273-6728, or complete the online request form at www.uni.edu/speakers. Featured speakers include: Nadene Davidson, assistant professor and interim department head, teaching—Education in the 21st Century Adam Butler, professor, psychology—Motivation and Living a Balanced Life
Butler
David Surdam, assistant professor, economics—Ten Things You Need to Know About the Economy Jeff Weld, associate professor of biology and director of the Iowa Mathematics and Science Education Partnership— Math and Science Education in Iowa: Earning our Quarter Surdam
Reg Pecen, associate professor, industrial technology— Solar Power and Impact to our Efforts for National Energy Independence Other Categories
Weld
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Health and WellBeing History Human Rights International Relations Literature Math and Science Motivation Performing Arts
Politics Professional Development Psychology Religion Technology Training UNI Services
www.uni.edu/speakers
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Choose the right renewable energy system It has been a year since I wrote about the advances in solar and wind systems that can power your homes and businesses. Now letâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s look at how to buy the system thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s right for you. You already know Mike Miller what your site is owner Natural has the most of: Solutions LLC in Cedar Falls. Contact sunshine, wind him at (319) 277or both. There 7842 or mike@ is a system that naturalsolutionswill best fit skylights.com. your needs First you need to know a few things about your energy consumption and utility supplier. Ask for your annual electrical (KWH) consumption or take 12 months of bills and add
up the KWH units used. Find out from your bill what your cost per KWH is and any other charges they might have. Also gather your annual natural gas charges. Next, if you are looking at producing electricity, ask them for a copy of their grid connection policy. Most have them, and some have incentives and rebates for these systems. This information will help determine the size and type of system that fits your needs and forecast the return on your investment. You may need to have your site evaluated. Where you live and work may have a bearing on whether you can get the system you prefer installed per zoning regulations and neighborhood covenants and such. The cities of the Cedar Valley are all forming new zoning regulations to allow solar and, more importantly, wind
turbines to be installed within their respective city limits. Outside of city limits we need to consult with county officials. Potential roadblocks for wind turbines include tower heights, noise and a few other issues. The requirements for solar systems will be much less restrictive, as they usually blend well with their surroundings and make no noise. Businesses will need to look at roof loading and attachment issues, but new thin film technologies are eliminating those worries. There is a solution for every site. A check with your insurance carrier will let you know if any additional coverage is needed. Various financial tax credits and grant opportunities might help you get a better return on your investment. There are also low- to zero-interest loans
available. We stay up to date on federal and state incentives and tax codes to make sure you have every advantage. At a time when the stateâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s budget is strained, cuts to some of these incentives are possible, so keep an eye on the Statehouse. These systems, while being simple in design, become somewhat complex when installation is started. There are a lot of components that make up a solar or wind energy system. While some take on the installation by themselves, others will want a trained professional. We at Natural Solutions have been factory trained in the design and installation of everything we sell. By keeping up on product development we can offer the best solutions out there. While designing systems, we take care to combine compo-
nents that work well together to assure you the results we project are attainable. We offer service programs also to take the worry out of maintenance. As we turn this corner into a new decade we will see a lot of changes concerning how we live. Hundreds of years of dependence on fossil fuels for the generation of power will give way to cleaner technologies including solar and wind. We will be driving hybrid and all-electric cars in much greater numbers than was ever imagined in the last ten years. Farmers will employ new ways to dry beans and corn, and livestock producers will capture methane produced by their herds and use it to power their farms. All of this will contribute to a healthier planet, longer life expectancies and a better quality of life.
february 2010
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You can beat inflammation
Pain and inflammation go together like peanut butter and jelly. We often experience pain because of our nervous system, but there’s also a chemical part to pain. The body produces chemiMarilyn Bartels cals that create inflammation is owner of TnK Health Food Store in in a response to Waterloo. Contact her injury. Inflamat (319) 235 0246. mation in turn irritates the nerves and causes us to feel pain. Most of us think when we have pain we just go take some pain medication or anti-inflammatory drugs. Pain medications do not correct anything, they only mask the problem. They may help you to tolerate pain, but in the long run they make matters worse by destroying cartilage. Some pain medications may slow down bone healing. Many of us may not be aware of it, but what we eat can affect how much pain and inflammation we feel. Eating a variety of healthy foods may help limit your pain. Avoiding refined grains, white sugar and white flour may ease pain. Insulin is very pro-inflammatory, and all those goodies such as cookies, candy and pop will cause more pain. Adequate water intake may help in two ways to relieve pain. It enables you to eliminate waste easier and your body may more efficiently dilute chemicals that cause inflammation. Drink water. Coffee, tea, juices and soda pop do not count. Adequate hydration is necessary to keep ligaments and discs healthy. Inadequate hydration makes you more prone to injury. Choose fats and oils carefully which are known as essential
cedar valley business monthly
fatty acids. Some of them produce substances called prostaglandins. Some prostaglandins cause inflammation and others suppress it. Completely avoid hydrogenated and partially hydrogenated oils, also known as transfats. Animal fats are pro-inflammatory. Choose lean cuts of meats, skinless chicken or turkey. Fish is an excellent choice because it contains omega-3 fatty acid, which is quite anti-inflammatory. Bright colors in fruits and vegetables are from bioflavonoids, which are antioxidants. When we eat them, they protect our cells. Research demonstrates that antioxidants may reduce pain and inflammation. Raw foods contain enzymes which assists our bodies to clear up inflammation. There are also enzyme supplements available that directly reduce inflammation. I would also like to introduce you to a number of anti-inflammatory remedies. Green tea, pomegranates, unsweetened black cherries or tart cherries have been recommended in battling inflammation. Fish oil is high in anti-inflammatory properties. Bromelain along with other enzymes and antioxidants may be useful as an anti-inflammatory formula. Ginger, tumeric, boswellia, nettle, devils claw, white willow, and yucca are just a few herbs often seen in anitinflammatory supplements. Getting rid of pain and inflammation is not just taking a pain pill. Remember when some of the more common pain medications were taken off the market? Don’t fight pain with something that may just cause more side effects. Try eating healthier foods and going natural with herbs and supplements to prevent complications.
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“YOU ARE UIU”
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Community Body Shop goes green with waterborne paint By JASON KITNER
Community Body Shop has taken a proactive stand in protecting the environment by going “green” with its paint finishing system. The collision center recently switched to a low-VOC PPG waterborne basecoat from a conventional solvent-based system. Our use of waterborne basecoat for refinishing vehicles significantly reduces the emission of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) into the atmosphere. This helps us do our part to improve the quality of our air and contribute to an overall healthier work environment. VOCs are chemical compounds commonly used in paint coatings and cleaning products. When released into the atmosphere they help create ozone and smog. When compared to a conventional solventborne basecoat, Nexa Autocolor Aquabase Plus can reduce basecoat sourced VOC emissions by up to 80 percent. By changing to waterborne paint, we reduce
volatile organic compounds in the air by 600 pounds per year for every two gallons of mixed paint, equivalent to taking 200 cars off the road. Waterborne basecoat is the latest coatings technology that is typically used by manufactures to create the original color on today’s vehicles. According to PPG, the introduction of its waterborne color toners for use in collision centers provides the enhanced ability to match a vehicle’s original finish. This is a major technological advancement with no downside. Not only is the paint better ecologically, it gives better color matches and it is faster to complete a repair when compared to the older solvent based systems. Community Body Shop is also going “green” in other phases of production. These include recycling plastic bumper covers, automotive lights, cardboard and fluorescent light bulbs. Jason Kitner is with Community Body Shop in Waterloo. Contact him at (319) 234-8884 or email jason@communitymotors.com.
Quality People. Quality Products. Quality Results. Quality People. Quality Products. Quality Results.
(319) 234-4411 www.youngphc.com
Architects Architects & & Builders Builders LEED LEED Accredited Accredited Geo-Thermal Geo-Thermal & & Green Green Buildings Buildings Turnkey Associates is a single source provider specializing in designing, designing, building, building, and and furnishing furnishing all types of commercial, retail and medical office buildings and complexes. We provide Architecture, Construction, Furniture & Furnishings, Interior Design, Signage, and Security services all all under under one one contract. contract.
216 216 E. E. 4th 4th St. St. Waterloo, Waterloo, IA, IA, 50703 50703 877-226-5852 877-226-5852 www.tkaweb.com www.tkaweb.com
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UNI explores conservation on and off campus Energy conservation and sustainability were on the radar at the University of Northern Iowa as early as 1915 when UNI offered one of the nation’s first collegiatelevel courses in conser vation. Now UNI offers more than 180 sustainabilityrelated courses; leads outreach Tom programs in KSchellhardt 12 classrooms is the University of across the state; Northern Iowa’s researches new vice president for administration and and refines old financial services methods for and the Sustainability energy conCouncil chairman. servation; proContact him at (319) vides speakers 273-2382. and education for community and business leaders; and works to establish efficient and energysaving measure across campus. Even in difficult economic times, UNI cannot neglect its responsibility to making lasting positive changes for the longevity of the institution and for future generations. This need for lasting change is why education is a key component to energy conservation. UNI classes in conservation and sustainability cross disciplines and generations. Although most courses are geared toward traditional UNI students, some — such as a wind energy course in fall 2009 and a spring 2010 course in solar energy — are open to the larger community through
continuing education. Lifelong University, a program that offers noncredit courses for the lifelong learner, has had courses designed around energy conservation and provided practical tips for inhome energy savings. Speakers and presentations on campus about energy conservation are often open to all ages. UNI programs such as the Center for Energy & Environmental Education, Iowa Waste Reduction Center and Recycle and Reuse Technology Transfer Center have taught K-12 students and business owners the importance of reducing waste, recycling and using renewable sources of energy and provided tips on how to incorporate them into life and work. During the last fiscal year, CEEE education programs reached approximately 9,800 K12 students and more than 1,100 K-12 teachers; 47 companies and organizations received assistance from RRTTC projects and services; and the IWRC provided technical assistance and onsite reviews to 253 small businesses. Research within the physics, chemistry and industrial technology departments and at the Tallgrass Prairie Center and National Ag-Based Lubricants Center is moving energy conservation forward by improving hydrogen-storage and solar cell capabilities, exploring biomassenergy production and using biolubricants to reduce the use of fossil fuels. UNI undergraduate students participate in many of these research projects. The UNI Speakers Bureau
features several well-regarded experts in energy conservation and sustainability fields. These UNI faculty and staff members are available to community organizations, businesses and industries that want speakers for meetings, summits, conferences and more. Many of these presentations are made free of charge. In addition to outreach and education, UNI pushes internally to practice energy conservation. The UNI power plant is 70 to 80 percent more efficient than typical power plants, and produces 40 percent of the university’s energy. Power plant staff and Cedar Falls Utilities continue to explore alternative energy sources. UNI also continues to explore ways to decrease non-renewable energy consumption by monitoring energy costs compared to
wind energy, replacing incandescent lights with LED lights, working Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design standards into new and existing buildings, making electric hybrid vehicles available in the motor pool and purchasing produce and products from local vendors when available. In 2009, UNI Dining Services spent more than $700,000 on produce and products from Iowa vendors, growers and farmers. Over the past decade, about 40 acres that were once mowed are now natural vegetation, requiring little maintenance and providing a learning opportunity for UNI students. UNI and the city of Cedar Falls established a joint recyclingreuse center on campus, which continues to collect increas-
ing amounts of material for recycling. This year UNI will install photovoltaic panels on the new Multimodal Transportation Center to harness the suns energy and make the building a net-zeroenergy facility, meaning it will produce its own power needs. Increased energy savings and sustainability efforts have become a major priority for local, state and federal governments. UNI will continue to promote sustainability through reducing carbon emissions, conserving energy, engaging and educating the university community to establish responsible lifelong behaviors and promoting the general public interest. Working as an institution, UNI is helping to build and promote a secure future for Iowa and its citizens.
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Investors look forward to a new decade If you feel your portfolio hasn’t made much progress over the last 10 years, you’re not alone. Historians may well look upon this period as a “lost decade” for investors. It is difficult to remember that the economic Larry K. Fox environment is senior financial was completely advisor with different at the Ameriprise Financial outset of this Inc., Waterloo. Contact him at (319) decade. As the 1990s came to 234-7000. a close and the world prepared to celebrate the start of a new millennium, economic optimism was peaking and the stock market was wrapping up two consecutive decades of superior performance. What a difference a decade makes. From 2000 through 2008 (a nine-year period), the stock market generated an average annual return of -3.60 percent based on the Standard & Poor’s 500 stock index, an unmanaged index of stocks. Thanks to a recovery in 2009, the average annual return for the entire decade will be slightly better, but still most likely in negative territory. This came on the heels of what was probably the greatest bull market in the history of stocks. The S&P 500 index returned 17.6 percent on an average annual basis from 1980 through 1989, and 18.2 percent for the ten-year period that ended in 1999. This far surpassed the historic annual return for stocks, in the 9 to 10 percent range. Though it might’ve been painful to endure if you were actively invested in the market in recent years, there is another way to look at it: You have survived one of the worst decades of stock market performance ever recorded. Looking back at the history of the market, the only other decade in which stocks performed so
poorly was the 1930s, the era of the Great Depression. In all other decades leading up to the 2000s, the broad market (as measured by the S&P 500 or comparable yardsticks) generated positive returns.
Watch for the tide to turn
The stock market reached its low point in the current cycle in early March. Still, the major measures of stock market performance including the Dow Jones industrial average, the S&P 500 and the Nasdaq composite index are all still well below the peaks they reached in 2007. Will the market malaise continue? Factors such as economic trends will have a lot to do with where stocks go from here. History may provide a glimmer of hope. The market, as measured by the broad S&P index, has never suffered two consecutive decades of poor performance. The negative markets of the 1930s were followed by the 1940s, which generated an average annual return of 9.17 percent (a period that included World War II). The next weakest decade (until now) was the 1970s, an era of oil price shocks, the Watergate scandal and high inflation and interest rates. The S&P 500 returned just 5.9 percent on an annualized basis for that 10year period. At the end of the 1970s, one business magazine suggested that equities might never again be considered an attractive investment. Then came the booming 1980s and 1990s, a 20-year period where the market averaged a return of slightly less than 18 percent per year. The market’s past performance is not an indication of what you might be able to expect in the years to come, but there is some encouragement in the historical record. For stocks to match what has been the historical normal return, some catching up may need to occur in the years to come. It is important to keep in mind
that on a year-to-year basis, stock market performance remains fairly unpredictable. If you are able to maintain a longterm investment perspective, it is more likely that you can ride out the down periods in the stock market in order to benefit from the long-term potential equities can provide. As you assess the performance of your own portfolio you need to assess what mix of stocks (compared to other types of assets such as bonds, real estate and cash-equivalent investments) is most appropriate for you. This is an individual decision, based on your own investment time horizon and risk tolerance. This column is for informational purposes only. The information may not be suitable for every
situation and should not be relied on without the advice of your tax, legal and/or financial advisors. Neither Ameriprise Financial nor its financial advisers provide tax or legal advice. Consult with qualified tax and legal advisors about your tax and legal situation. This column was prepared by Ameriprise Financial. The Dow Jones industrial average is a popular indicator of the stock market based on the average closing prices of 30 active U.S. stocks representative of the overall economy. The Nasdaq composite index is a market-value weighted index of all common stocks listed on Nasdaq used mainly to track technology stocks. Unlike the Dow Jones industrial average, the Nasdaq is market value-weighted, so it
takes into account the total market capitalization of the companies it tracks and not just their share prices. The Standard & Poor’s 500 index (S&P 500 Index), an unmanaged index of common stocks, is frequently used as a general measure of market performance. The index reflects reinvestment of all distributions and changes in market prices, but excludes brokerage commissions or other fees. It is not possible to invest directly in an index. Brokerage, investment and financial advisory services are made available through Ameriprise Financial Services, Inc. Member FINRA and SIPC. Some products and services may not be available in all jurisdictions or to all clients.
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Mary Alewine
Realtor
69 Phone: 319.230.48 87 .50 68 9.2 Fax: 31 21 Office: 319.277.21 alleyhome.com mary@mycedarv alleyhome.com arv ced www.my
Brad Wyant Terry Evans Justin Shaffer
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Resale industry plays big role in conservation Americans spend billions of dollars each year on designer clothing, sporting goods, electronics, games and other luxury items. However, with Americans tightening their belts and conserving Mary Sundblad on everything is owner/president of from natural Stuff Etc Franchise resources to LLC in Coralville. Contact her at (319) personal luxuries, it is time to 545-8488. rethink the way we shop. Going “green” is not just a growing industry, it is becoming a lifestyle. Professionals, students and workers at all ends of the spectrum are interested in saving the planet and saving money. Recycling has new momentum in both the private sector and the government. Businesses based on these principles are booming. The demand for recycled goods is increasing, and businesses focused on recycling and reusing are seeing an increase in new customers. The resale industry is focused on recycling and reusing and is on the rise. Generating $200 billion in revenue annually, the consignment industry has seen 5 percent annual growth over the past few years. Consignment is seen as one of the few recession-proof areas of retailing, not just surviving but thriving during economic slowdowns. Adele Meyer,
executive director of the National Association of Resale and Thrift Stores, states, “Recessions present the opportunity for resale shops to attract new customers.” She said NARTS members have reported significant increases in sales and incoming inventory as consumers tighten spending and search for sources of extra income. Recent surveys revealed 80 percent of stores experienced an increase in new customers with a nearly 30 percent sales increase over last year. “With gas prices at record highs, food costs increasing, and housing expenses rising, it is no wonder consumers are feeling cashand credit-constrained,” she said. “As they run out of purchasing power they cut back on discretionary spending and change the way they shop. But don’t be mistaken, people will shop.” Many factors contribute to the popularity of resale. Increased awareness of recycling, the quest for higher quality for less money, the lure of finding something distinctive and the thrill of the hunt are just a few things that lure the savvy shopper. One of the foremost reasons resale thrives in a slow economy is simple: People love a bargain. Today’s resale stores look the same as mainstream retailers with one difference; They sell slightly used, high quality goods at lower prices. Consignment stores come in all shapes and sizes. They can be franchises with a focused inventory (i.e. clothing, sporting goods, household). They can be
locally owned small stores specializing in a specific inventory, or large stores offering a department style store. They are different than thrift stores, which receive donated merchandise, selling it at very low prices and using revenue to support specific organizations. Thrift stores will take almost any donations. Consignment stores have the dual objective of providing quality merchandise at low prices and of generating a profit for their consignors and themselves. This causes them to be selective in choosing merchandise. They want items that appeal to customers. Consignment stores have a structured process. Products are brought in by consignors. Some stores limit the amount and type of items consigned and times consignment is accepted. Items are assigned prices in each consignor’s account. Stores display items in a manner similar to regular retail stores. Consignment stores offer discounts and markdowns similar to retail stores to help move dated merchandise, to make room for newly accepted items and to move items at the change of seasons. As consignor’s items sell, the consignment account accumulates money until the consignor chooses to receive a payout in cash or use accumulated funds to purchase items in the store. At the end of the consignment period some stores give unsold items back to consignors or offer the option for unsold items to be donated to charity and thrift organizations.
Small purchases add up, survey finds The Associated Press
Americans cannot account for an average of $21 per week in cash spending, according to a recent telephone survey commissioned by Visa Inc. That adds up to more than $1,000 per year. The poll of more than 1,000 adults in the U.S. found that
mystery purchases happened most often while buying food and other groceries, while almost a third said they can’t account for money spent enjoying a night on the town. About a quarter of respondents said dining out leads to unexplained expenditures. Meanwhile, consumers worldwide are unable to account for 20 percent of their cash spending
each week, according to interviews with more than 12,000 adults around the globe. The survey also found that younger U.S. adults between the ages of 18 to 24 claim to lose track of $2,500 annually, more than twice the average amount. The poll has a margin of sampling error of plus or minus 4 percentage points.
More sellers are enticed by the idea of getting cash for unwanted items, and consigning is less time-consuming and as profitable as selling online or through ads. Further, consignment helps reduce waste, energy use and greenhouse gas emissions. With this increasing awareness
of the importance of reducing waste, we are progressing from a disposable society to a recycling society, a change that has enormous potential for the resale industry. If you haven’t visited a consignment store lately, drop by one and see if you might find a “diamond in the rough.”
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Energy management considerations for businesses, homeowners With electricity costs rising throughout the United States, homeowners and commercial facility managers are wise to adopt an energy management program that can result in significant savings and reduce greenhouse gas John Greiner emissions. Electricity is a project manager costs are rising with Integrated Electrical Services by as much (www.ies-co.com). as 30 percent He joined IES in in some parts 2001. IES is a of the nation. leading national Power producprovider of electrical and communications ers are paying prices contracting solutions higher for the commercial, for coal and natural gas and industrial and residential markets. spending more building plants or upgrading and maintaining existing ones. These costs are passed on to consumers. Local electricity providers and qualified electrical contractors can assist homeowners and businesses with a customized energy management program based on energy consumption, facility design and use and budget. Here are five common ways to reduce energy costs: 1. Become an Energy Star advocate — Energy Star is a joint program of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the U.S. Department of Energy that saves money and protects the environment through efficient energy use. Through Energy Star, Americans saved $19 billion on utility bills in 2008 — enough to avoid greenhouse gas emissions equivalent to those from 29 million cars.
Energy efficient choices can save families about a third on their energy bill with similar savings of greenhouse gas emissions. ■ Look for appliances and products with the Energy Star rating. ■ Look for new homes that have earned the Energy Star rating for efficient building practices. ■ Contact the EPA for resources to plan and undertake remodeling projects to reduce energy bills and improve comfort.
Energy Star for businesses
Businesses, educational institutions and government entities can also save money and support the environment. Energy Star partners can adopt a strategy that measures energy performance, sets goals, tracks savings and rewards improvements. Energy Star partners include manufacturers and retailers of Energy Star products; state, utility and regional energy efficiency programs; residential construction industry; commercial, industrial and government organizations; commercial and industrial service and product providers; architects and design firms; and small businesses. The EPA also provides an energy performance rating system that has been adopted for more than 96,000 buildings across the country. The EPA recognizes top performing buildings with the Energy Star. 2. Upgrade lighting fixtures and change to energy efficient bulbs. — According to Consortium for Energy Efficiency lighting accounts for about 40 percent of electricity costs in most commercial spaces. Look for energy efficient fixtures and switch from incandescent lighting to fluorescent
wherever possible. A compact fluorescent light bulb will save about $30 over its lifetime and pay for itself in about 6 months. It uses 75 percent less energy and lasts about 10 times longer than an incandescent bulb. Visit www. energystar.gov for a buyer’s guide and more information. 3. Install room occupancy sensors — Indoor lighting controls detect activity and turn lights on automatically when someone enters a room. They reduce energy use by turning lights off after the last occupant has gone. Ultrasonic sensors detect sound, and infrared sensors detect heat and motion. 4. Modify use of cooling and heating systems — Cooling and heating systems boost utility costs. Digital thermometers better regulate and set temperature controls based on time of day, occupancy and indoor and outdoor weather conditions. Humidity also is a factor in energy consumption. Installing a hygrometer ($10 to $50) can save energy, increase comfort and make the indoor environment healthier. High humidity in the winter can make 68 degrees feel more like 76 degrees and cause condensation on windows. The relative humidity in winter should be between 20 percent and 35 percent. As the outside temperature falls, lower the percentage to prevent condensation. In the summer, control humidity with air conditioners and dehumidifiers. Keep doors and windows closed. 5. Install solar systems or other solar-powered products — Costs to install ground- or roofmounted solar systems have been falling dramatically, making solar power more affordable
The Cedar Valley Business Monthly seeks contributors The Cedar Valley Business Monthly welcomes regular contributions from individuals across the area’s business community. Here are some simple suggestions on topics to address: 1. What expertise can you offer from your particular business perspective? 2. Do you have any consumer tips pulled from your own expertise?
3. Appeal to a broad audience. Don’t just pitch a product. 4. Don’t be afraid to take on an important business issue, adding your 2 cents from your unique business perspective. 5. How, business, tax and other issues affect businesses like yours? 6. Don’t put down a rival’s product. 7. There are no guarantees for publishing.
8. Copy should be around 800 words (we’re flexible) and e-mailed. 9. Please observe copy deadlines. They are a necessary evil. Please submit all articles, and don’t forget to attach the author’s mug shot and contact information, to Courier Business Editor Jim Offner, at jim.offner@wcfcourier.com and send a copy to sheila.kerns@wcfcourier.com.
as electricity costs and environmental concerns increase. Many utility providers offer rebates, and the federal government is offering a 30 percent tax incentives to encourage home owners and businesses to invest in solar power. Most solar systems come with a 20-year warranty, and buyers can typically achieve
a return on investment in five to 11 years depending on consumption and costs. Low cost, easy-to-install solarpowered products are also available at local lighting and home improvement stores. Visit the Solar Energy Industries Association Web site at www. seia.org for more information.
A personal, more meaningful approach to financial planning. Whether you’re a small business owner, evaluating your estate plan, or sending your kids to college, We can help you plan to reach your financial goals through personal, customized financial planning. Call (319) 234-7000 and ask for Larry today!
Larry K. Fox & Associates
A financial advisory practice of Ameriprise Financial Services, Inc.
3404 Midway Drive • Waterloo, IA 50701 Phone: 319-234-7000 • Toll Free: 888-300-7844 larrykfox.com
Ameriprise Financial cannot guarantee future financial results. Ameriprise Financial Services, Inc., Member FINRA and SIPC.
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Welcome New Chamber Members
Care Initiatives Hospice 6915 Chancellor Dr., Ste. A Cedar Falls, IA 50613 Phone: 319-232-6148 Fax: 319-232-6823 Website: www.careinitiatives.org Contact: Shannon Roder Category: Hospice
Dynamic Impressions 411 Viking Rd., Ste. C Cedar Falls, IA 50613 Phone: 319-277-1925 Fax: 319-277-7019 Website: www.dynamicimp.com Contact: Steven Peters Category: Printers/Publishers/Graphics Heal The Family Inc. 215 E. 4th St. Waterloo, IA 50703 Phone: 319-236-7290 Fax: 319-235-4364 Website: www.healthefamilyinc.org Contact: Michael Robinson Category: Counseling Services The Iowa Financial Group - MetLife 527 Olympic Dr, Waterloo, IA 50701 Phone: 319-230-2182 Contact: Bob Moore Category: Financial Planning/Services Iowa Telecom 1440 Blairs Ferry Rd. H-6 Hiawatha, IA 52233 Phone: 319-330-0886 Website: www.iowatelecom.com Contact: John Lindsay Category: Utilities
Papa Murphy’s Pizza 5925 University Ave., Ste. 3 Cedar Falls, IA 50613 Phone: 319-268-4007 Website: www.papamurphys.com Contact: Luke Bartlett Category: Restaurants/Bars/Caterers Papa Murphy’s Pizza 3005 Kimball Ave. Waterloo, IA 50702 Phone: 319-236-1234 Fax: 319-266-5573 Website: www.papamurphys.com Contact: Luke Bartlett Category: Restaurants/Bars/Caterers Peoples Savings Bank 223 W. Dike Rd. PO Box 577 Dike, IA 50624 Phone: 319-989-9062 Fax: 319-989-9072 Website: www.bankpsb.com Contact: Angie Thesing Category: Banks & Credit Unions St. John Lutheran Church 715 N. College St. Cedar Falls, IA 50613 Phone: 319-268-0165 Fax: 319-266-3207 Website: www.stjohncf.org Contact: Pastor Dave Kebschull Category: Churches Target Food Distribution Center 2115 Technology Pkwy. Cedar Falls, IA 50613 Phone: 319-553-3201 Contact: Carson Landsgard Category: Distribution Centers
FEbrUAry 2010
Ribbon Cuttings
Allen Ambulatory Surgery Center United Medical Park, Ridgeway Ave., Waterloo
BioLife Plasma Services 802 Brandilynn Blvd., Cedar Falls
Liberty Tax Service 618 Brandilynn Blvd., Cedar Falls
Upper Cervical Health Centers of America 1935 Main St., Cedar Falls
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2010 Premier Members
The Greater Cedar Valley Chamber of Commerce extends a special thank you to our 2010 Premier Members. If you would like to become a Premier Member, please fill out the Voluntary Assessment portion of your dues. 1st Insurance Services KCRG-TV AFLAC Lillians BankIowa ManorCare Healthcare Bill Colwell Ford-Isuzu, Inc. Manpower, Inc. Black Hawk Hotel Monte Meyer, Golf Pro Bridges Senior Lifestyle Living Mount's Wrecker Service Cedar Valley IT Services Office Express Cedar Valley Society for Human Resource Oster Partners L.P. Management Restoration Services, Inc. Covenant Foundation Royal Limousine Crystal Distribution Services Syngenta Seeds, Inc. Farmers National Co. Target Regional Distribution Center Financial Decision Group TEAM Technologies Gosling & Company, P.C. Terry L. Butz Creative Incorporated Harrison Truck Centers Tropical Interiors Hood & Phalen Insurance Turn Key Associates Howard R. Green Waterloo Black Hawks Iowa State University-University Extension Karen's Print-Rite/Pro Sign
The Greater Cedar Valley Chamber would like to say thank you to the Members who have renewed their Membership for 2010.
Thank you for your continued support! For a complete list of Membership renewals, please visit www.greatercedarvalleychamber.com and click on the Resource Documents link.
February Calendar of Events February 1 February 2 February 3 February 4 February 11 February 11 February 12 February 12 February 16 February 16 February 24 February 25
Strategic Communications Committee, Cedar Falls office, 9:00 AM Strictly Business Task Force, Park Place Event Centre, 1521 Technology Pkwy., Cedar Falls, 7:45 AM Golf Classic Task Force, Cedar Falls office, 8:00 AM Membership Task Force, Roux Orleans, Black's Building, Waterloo, Noon Business Education Series, Isle Casino Hotel Waterloo, 7:30 AM Annual Celebration, The Other Place, Ridgeway Ave., Waterloo, 4:00 PM Government Relations Task Force, Cedar Falls office, 7:30 AM Cedar Falls Ambassadors, Cedar Falls office, Noon Strictly Business Task Force, Cedar Falls office, 7:45 AM Legislative Reception, Renaissance Savery Hotel, 401 Locust, Des Moines, 5:00 - 7:00 PM Cedar Falls & Waterloo Ambassadors, Beck's Sports Brewery, University Ave., Waterloo, 4:30 PM Board Meeting, Holiday Inn, University Ave., Cedar Falls, 8:00 AM
Mark your calendar for the Chamber’s 2010 Strictly Business Expo to be held on Tuesday, April 6 at Park Place Event Centre from 4-7:00 p.m. The theme is “There’s No Place Like Home…. Shop….Dine….Entertain”. A networking event, “Business After Hours”, will be included in the format of the expo. The expo will showcase various businesses’ products and services. Businesses new to the Cedar Valley as well as longtime businesses will benefit from the exposure at the expo. Strictly Business also offers sponsorship levels (limited number) which provide marketing benefits for Chamber members. Exhibitor booths are available! If you are interested in a booth space or sponsorship opportunity, please contact Bette Wubbena at 233-8431 or bette@ greatercedarvalleychamber.com. Silver Sponsors: Allen Health System and Wheaton Franciscan Healthcare
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Web-based VoterVoice, Coalitions Leverage Cedar Valley Message to Lawmakers By Steve Dust, President/CEO, To help you communicate Greater Cedar Valley Alliance with our legislators on issues Capital will always go where most important to you as leaders it’s welcome and stay where it of businesses, institutions, and is well treated. Capital is not taxpayers, the Alliance provides just money, it is also talent and the Government Relations Action ideas.Walter Wriston’s Law of Network powered by VoterVoice www.cedarvalleyalliance. Capital reminds us that a strong at com. VoterVoice permits business climate and proyou to register once, then business policies are important communicate as often as you to the economic growth of the Cedar Valley of Iowa. like with your Federal and State As the State Legislature and legislators, and local officials US Congress head back to too. VoterVoice can be used to let work, quick communications our elected officials know your to our delegation and other key views on the various bills and legislative leaders is important. actions under consideration. You can easily sign The 2010 State session will have up online at www. special challenges because it is a short session, it’s likely that cedarvalleyalliance.com under they will often be in session five the "Government Relations/ Network" link. days per week, and they have Action And there are plenty of key very tough budget issues to fix. issues to monitor this year.
At the Federal level there is Health Care Reform, Cap and Trade, elimination of private ballots in union elections (EFCA), technology park and air service development zone incentives, important talent training programs up for reauthorization, and millions of dollars in important community facilities projects. At the State level, the budget crisis has business and economic development organizations protecting our pro-business, pro-development tax credits, as well as highly successful and efficient training and education programs and budgets. We’re also watching for bills that threaten to repeal federal deductibility of State income taxes and the Right to Work, Choice of Doctor, and
Thursday, March 11 7:30 - 9:00 AM 5 Sullivan Brothers Convention Center W. 4th & Commercial St., Waterloo
The program will include updates on city and county issues from Mayor Buck Clark, Mayor Jon Crews and a representative from the Black Hawk County Board of Supervisors. There is no cost to attend; however, reservations are required. Please RSVP by March 4 to the Chamber office at 233-8431. Co-Sponsored by:
Sponsored by:
impose a “prevailing wage” in our tax funded projects. Your Alliance maintains a variety of valuable allies in issue- and interest-based coalitions. Our Alliance investor/members often assist us through their government relations representatives. In Iowa, we work closely with the Professional Developers of Iowa, representing economic developers; Iowa Chamber Alliance representing the metro development and chamber organizations; the Iowa Association of Business & Industry, Iowa Prosperity Project, the Iowa Business Council, Technology Association of Iowa, and a coalition specifically working on preserving tax credits for historic building rehabilitation,
and many other groups related to Alliance activities. At the federal level, we work with National Association of Manufacturers, National Federation of Small Business, Campaign to Support Free Enterprise, and others on specific issues, such as Coalition for Affordable American Energy, and Chamber Alliance on Healthcare Reform. We need your voice to be part of ONE VOICE for the Cedar Valley of Iowa. Please sign up and use VoterVoice, and as always please contact Steve Firman, Alliance Director of Government Relations at Firman@CedarValleyAlliance. com or me at Dust@ CedarValleyAlliance.com regarding issues of importance to your business or institution.
MWD Fundraising Opportunities Available for Service Groups My Waterloo Days 2010, Expo Excitement, will be held on June 3-6 at the RiverLoop Exposition Plaza and Lincoln Park. Once again there are fundraising opportunities available to local service groups, organizations and churches with clean up, ID validation and beer pouring. Groups can earn from as little as $40 to as much as $500 depending on the number of volunteers required. Slots for
ID validation and beer pouring are in 3 hour shifts and clean up projects are targeted at 1 hour. For more information and agreement details, please contact Jay Stoddard, My Waterloo Days Director at (319) 233-8431 or jstodd2000@aol.com.
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Cedar Valley Character Counts Committee Receives 2009 Iowa Character Award The Cedar Valley Character Counts Committee (CVCCC) has been selected as the recipient of the 2009 Iowa Character Award. The Award, presented by the state organization Character Counts! In Iowa, is given to the Iowa community that has developed an active task force and a comprehensive, sustained community-wide initiative supporting the Six Pillars of
Character – Trustworthiness, the Character Counts! Program Respect, Responsibility, locally, assisting in developing Fairness, Caring and Citizenship citizens who live, model and encourage positive character in home, business, community and service organizations and faith communities. Last April, CVCCC hosted – and has integrated character development throughout the first annual Champions the entire community. of Character event at the 5 Formed in late 2005, the Sullivan Brothers Convention CVCCC’s mission is to grow Center, recognizing students awareness of and involvement in who consistently demonstrated
outstanding achievement in modeling the Six Pillars. Three hundred people attended. Various training sessions are held for local counselors and family support workers on the implementation of the Pillars. Numerous presenters have spoken to metro-area students, including former Governor Robert D. Ray. Allen College hosted a reception for the Young LeadersofCharacter,punctuating
the establishment of the state’s second youth training core. The Cedar Valley Character Counts Committee was recognized on October 17 in West Des Moines at the Iowa Character Awards Banquet. To join the local Character Counts Committee, contact Bruce Clark, Chair, Liberty Bank, 319-233-8527, or email bclark@libertybankiowa.com
Greater Cedar Valley Alliance & Chamber Present
Business Education Series a series of educational seminars for your business You're invited to attend our annual
Cedar Valley Legislative Reception Tuesday, February 16, 2010 Renaissance Savery Hotel, 401 Locust, Des Moines Hors d'oeuvres & Cocktails 5:00 - 7:00 PM There is no cost to attend, but an RSVP is appreciated by calling 319-232-1156 or sending an e-mail to erin@greatercedarvalleychamber.com.
The Cedar Falls Junior Chamber is proud to announce the fourth annual
Healthcare Reform & Your Business Thursday, February 11 from 7:30 AM - 9:00 AM at the Isle Casino Hotel Waterloo Presenters include: Gil Irey - Cedar Valley Medical Specialists Greg Saul - Professional Insurance Planners Rick Seidler - Allen Health System Facilitator: Steve Sinnott - The Sinnott Agency Cost: $15 for members and $25 non-members Please RSVP to the Alliance & Chamber at 232-1156. Sponsored By
Thursday, March 11, 2010 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. The Supervisors’ Club, Waterloo For more information visit www.cedarfallsjaycees.org
Mark your Calendar! Thursday, April 1 - Communications/ Social Networking June - Behavorial Marketing
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Eight keys to finding a better car deal Be better-prepared to own your next vehicle by knowing what to ask and what a good deal is. 1. Find the right dealership and sales professional. — Dealing with the right dealership and sales professional is the foundation to the whole purchasing process. The dealership and how they treat you is a key factor. Do they want your business? Do they want to keep your busiTom Holdiman ness? Do the strive is owner of Holdiman owners to keep their Motors in Cedar Falls. Contact him dealership the at (319) 277-1210 best it can be? or tomholdiman@ You can tell by gmail.com. The dealing with the dealership’s management, Web site is holdimanmotor.com salespeople and everyone else who you come in contact with at the dealership. Salesperson: After you purchased your vehicle have you ever heard from your salesperson? Does your salesperson assist you with your vehicle concerns and needs? Have you ever purchased a vehicle only to find out the salesman made promises that he/she wouldn’t keep? Or you found out later that they lied to you? This is the 21st century! There are actually honest salespeople who take this business
very seriously and look at it as a long-term career. If you don’t have a salesperson you can trust, ask around. 2. Know what you need your new vehicle to accomplish for you. — Be careful in choosing your next vehicle, because it is a big investment. If you pick the wrong one it will cost you money. That is why it is important to make a list of things you need your new vehicle to accomplish before you start shopping. Have you thought about how much room you need? Gas mileage? Power for pulling and hauling? Car shoppers: Make sure the car is going to provide you with enough room to put your stuff in and has enough legroom for everyone. Truck shoppers: You could wind up an unhappy truck owner if you haven’t thought carefully about how many people and how much gear you need to carry. You need to consider what you are really going to pack for payload as well. 3. Decide why used is better than new. — Did you realize that when you buy a new vehicle, you can lose a few thousand dollars as soon as you drive it off of the lot? Are your prepared to lose a few thousand dollars in a matter of minutes? If so, then buying a new vehicle may be a wise investment for you. If not, you may want to consider buying used.
4. Find a dealership that can provide references or testimonials from customers.— Few dealers can provide this information. In many cases this is because they have very few satisfied customers. Many dealerships simply continue to buy new business through their advertising efforts instead of creating fans and building their business on repeat and referral business. If a dealer doesn’t have letters of recommendation from people it has worked with in the past, you should consider shopping elsewhere. 5. Discover how the dealership prepares their vehicles before they offer them for sale. — I have personally asked dealers all over the country what they do to get their vehicles ready for sale. My favorite response (to make fun of) is the dealer who responded, “I drive them from the auction to the lot.” Unfortunately, the same reconditioning process that is followed by many used car dealers. When you are paying thousands of dollars for a vehicle, you deserve to receive something more. Just like you demand to know if your doctor is qualified to handle your health or if your financial planner is qualified to handle your money, you should want to know more about the qualifications of the people who are handling your automotive needs.
6. Find out if the dealer offers any kind of guarantee or warranty on their used vehicles. — Why would you risk spending money with someone who isn’t willing to stand behind the cars they sell? Most dealerships stand behind their vehicles with anywhere from a measly 10 percent to a whopping 100 percent warranty. You will find the dealers warranty listed on the window on the used car on the Federal Buyers Guide (it is a federal law that each vehicle display this document). The challenge is to be cautious about anything less than a 100 percent drivetrain warranty at time of sale. When someone I care about is shopping for a vehicle, I urge them to consider this. Make sure you have a guarantee that is included. It may seem like you are getting a good deal from a dealer or a private seller, but that good deal can quickly turn into a nightmare if you experience problems with the vehicle after you drive off. 7. Find out if the dealer can help you arrange financing at competitive rates. — Many dealers will be able to connect you with exceptional rates and finance sources if you have good or excellent credit, but many dealers fail to help people who have had credit challenges in the past. Even with excellent credit, many unprofessional dealerships fail to offer all customers all of
their options all of the time. I am personally very passionate about this topic. Many banks and finance companies base their decision to loan you money in large part based on the relationship they have with the dealer. A dealer who has good relationships with a finance company, bank or credit union will be better able to help you obtain financing. Building these relationships takes time, energy, and patience, which many people lack. 8. Buying a vehicle should be worry-free. — Most dealers will tell you that you should choose them because of price or service. Low price in the car business is an empty promise. All vehicles are priced based on supply and are held in check by book values. Generally, you will get a very similar price no matter where you shop. Beware of a dealer promising a price that is too good to be true; it most likely is. They will make up the difference in the finance department, or they may not give you a fair amount for your trade-in. Service is another poor answer to this question. You should expect service. You should buy a car from someone who is able to give you a quick and powerful answer to this question‚ someone who actually provides something beneficial to you.
U.S. adults spend an average of 13 hours a week online The Associated Press
U.S. adults said they are spending more time on the Internet — nearly 8 percent of their week this year, according to a recent survey. The Harris Poll reported Americans 18 and older spent an average of 13 hours a week online, excluding time spent checking e-
mail. That’s an hour a week less than in October 2008, during the election campaign and burgeoning financial crisis — but nearly double the time spent online a decade ago. In 1999, Americans said they spent an average of seven hours a week online. That increased to between eight and nine hours through 2006 and grew to 11 hours a week in 2007.
Harris said the increase in the past two years was “striking,” and partly reflected growth in TV watched on the Internet and online shopping. Half the people surveyed said they shopped over the Internet in the last month. People from ages 25 to 49 spent the most amount of time on the Internet (17-18 hours a week), whether at home, work or anoth-
er location. Americans who were 65 and older spent only eight hours a week online, on average. Nearly a quarter of people aged 25 to 29 said they spent between 24 to 168 hours online per week. People have increased their time spent online. There’s also been an increase in the past decade in how many people say they’re using the Internet.
This year, 80 percent of people surveyed said they browsed the Internet, up from 56 percent in 1999. The survey asked people only if they went online from a computer, not from a smart phone. The Harris Poll surveyed 2,029 U.S. adults from July 7-12 and Oct. 13-18. The sampling error is plus or minus 2 percentage points.
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Wartburg adds green initiatives to its color palette While “Be Orange” may be the bywords at Wartburg College, being “green” also is part of the campus culture. Wartburg has embarked on an environmental and energy sustainability initiative that Saul Shapiro is assistant e n co m p a s s e s vice president endeavors small for institutional and large. advancement at Before classWartburg College. es started, all He can be contacted incoming stuat saul.shapiro@ dents received a wartburg.edu. reusable bottle container with orientation materials — courtesy of the student senate. The bottles were aluminum and green to emphasize the environmental initiative. During the opening picnic, students, faculty and staff were encouraged to bring beverage containers to reduce waste. Coffee and soft drink prices are discounted when using a refillable container. While those are small measures, they can add up as students learned in February 2009 during a monthlong Energy Challenge with archrival Luther College. The campus literally went “lights out” in many areas as skywalk, hallway and other lights were dimmed or doused during the day. Students learned about “vampire energy” — the consumption of electricity by
appliances when turned off or in standby mode but plugged in. Student Christina Walker used a Kill-A-Watt meter to measure the electrical consumption of her laptop, TV and refrigerator in her residence hall room. In a guest column in the student newspaper, The Trumpet, she wrote, “Every item plugged in uses energy whether the item is in use or not. One simple way to conserve energy is to unplug things when you’re not using them.” “Vampire energy” sucks as much as 8 percent of a household’s electric bill, much of it through chargers such as those used for cell phones. In the aftermath of the challenge, students have been advised to use power strips, turn off multiple appliances that don’t need to be on constantly, turn off lights when they leave a room and use energy-efficient compact fluorescent bulbs. Although the challenge with Luther lacked a declared champion, Wartburg cut electricity by nearly 4 percent for the month. That’s particularly notable given that the Wartburg-Waverly Sports & Wellness Center, which meets 27 Leadership in Energy and Environmental design standards, added 2 percent in electricity usage for the campus. (Wartburg has partnered with Waverly Light and Power to purchase a wind turbine with greenenergy output to offset the extra electricity.)
Because the college spent $217,000 per month on electricity, gas and water during the prior February, a 4 percent acrossthe-board reduction would have saved around $8,000. Efforts continue to make Wartburg more energy efficient: ■ When offices shut down during the holidays, lights and computers were turned off and room temperatures reduced. ■ Wartburg recently began installing photosensitive lighting in areas with a lot of natural daylight. ■ It will establish a college garden this spring to bring fresh, local, healthy produce to Dining Services. ■ Dining Services alone reduced water use by more than 11 percent. “Trayless dining” reduced the number of dishes washed and food and water wasted. By adding front-loading washers, water usage decreased during a 48-day period by 14,976 gallons. ■ Among 22 energy-saving initiatives, Dining Services became more conservative using lighting and ovens while increasing recycling and composting. ■ The physical plant department finished installing lowflow appliances, including shower heads, toilets and, in some instances, faucets. Being “green” also is part of the Wartburg curriculum. Students can take an environmental studies minor or courses such as an Inquiry Studies 101 class that focuses primarily on sustainabil-
Search engines, Internet phone calling rake in cash The Associated Press
Search engines and Internet calling were the best performing sectors by revenue growth this decade, while men’s and boys’ apparel manufacturing ranked worst, according to one industry research firm. Revenue growth for search engines has surged more than tenfold since 2000, while voice over Internet Protocol — or
VoIP — was nonexistent before becoming popular in recent years, according to IBISWorld Inc. The market is dominated by Vonage Holdings Corp. and Google Inc.’s Voice application, as well as Skype, recently sold by eBay Inc. to a group of private investors. The other top performers of the decade are eCommerce and online auction sites such as eBay Inc. and Amazon.com Inc.; online dating; tank and armored vehicle
manufacturing; and petrochemicals, including Exxon Mobil Corp. and Dow Chemical Co. The men’s and boys’ apparel manufacturing industry, which includes companies such as Hanesbrands Inc. and PhillipsVan Heusen Corp., ranked worst. That list also included clothing accessories manufacturing companies, banking and broad woven fabric mills, including textile maker Milliken & Co.
ity issues. The message is not confined to the classroom. Wartburg had its second annual Go Green Fair in late January, with more than
20 vendors from Waverly and Northeast Iowa sharing products and educational messages about making the most efficient use of resources.
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Need for vitamin D greater than previously thought Third in a monthly series of articles about bone health. All of the articles can be found at cvbusinessmonthly.com. Vitamin D suddenly has become the center of medical research and discoveries. Vitamin D is actually a pre-hormone. The activated form has many more critical functions than we knew just a few years ago. amount Dr. Jay Ginther The we need in our is director of the blood is much Cedar Valley Bone Health Institute. higher than we Contact him at (319) thought only 233-2663. three years ago. And it is harder to get enough than we thought. Vitamin D has been called the sunshine vitamin. Many people can make some vitamin D if they get enough sunshine, but there are problems. In Iowa we cannot get any from the sun from September through April. Ability to make vitamin D varies, and it diminishes with age. Most of us are too low in vitamin D by March and many do not catch up by September. You should protect yourself from sunburn and skin cancer risk with clothing, hat and sunblock. Unfortunately that will prevent you from making vitamin D. That is why more people in Florida and southern California are vitamin D deficient than in Iowa. At 75 percent vitamin D deficiency rate in Iowa, we are still in trouble. A little vitamin D is added to milk. The FDA standard for vita-
min D in our diet was set in the 1920s. It is enough to prevent rickets (leg bones so weak they grow crooked) in a young child who drinks four to five glasses of vitamin D fortified milk daily. Most of us no longer drink that much milk. Less than half of milk tested by the National Osteoporosis Foundation actually had even that much vitamin D. Older children, teenagers and adults need much more than the 400 IU that is “100 percent” listed on a multi-vitamin bottle. Most speakers at the 2009 National Osteoporosis Foundation International Symposium recommended 1,400 to 2,000 IU of vitamin D daily for teenagers and adults. Those who disagreed recommended 2,000 to 3,000 IU of vitamin D daily. You need vitamin D in order to absorb calcium from your diet. Without enough vitamin D your body will steal calcium from your bones instead of adding calcium to your bones. But vitamin D is needed for much more than just your bones. We now know that vitamin D deficiency can cause: neuropathy (numbness and tingling), poor balance and co-ordination, poor muscle strength, fibromyalgia (widespread burning pain), depression and the “winter blues”, several heart and artery problems, and a doubling of the death rate among women being treated for breast cancer. SADD (seasonal affect depressive disorder) or the “winter blues” is thought by some researchers to be the result of increasing vitamin D deficiency through the winter, when the sun is too low to produce any vitamin D. We strongly suspect, but
have not yet proven, that adequate vitamin D helps maintain the immune system and helps prevent or treat several cancers, including breast, colon and prostate. You can find out your vitamin D level with a blood test for 25hydroxy Vitamin D. The original “normal” level was 15 to 40ng/ ml. In 2009 the “optimal” level quoted at NOF was 32 to 100. We now aim for 40 to 50. Vitamin D toxicity in an adult is extremely rare, even at levels far above 100ng/ml. Vitamin D is a stored vitamin. Therefore, if you have a long term vitamin D deficiency, you need to fill up your storage areas before you will use (not store) your entire daily intake. If you are really low, this will take months or even years at just 2,000 IU daily. We use 50,000 IU of D3 taken 3 times weekly to catch up quickly when needed. Vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol – from animal sources) is easiest for the kidneys to convert to the active form of this hormone. Vitamin D2 (ergocalciferol) comes from plants. It is cheaper to make but is not as effective as D3. Higher and more frequent doses of D2 are needed. Cod liver oil is the traditional home remedy containing vitamin D3. Some oily fish and fish oil supplements have D3. Many other supplements have D2 rather than D3. Check the label carefully. Inexpensive D3 is available if you look. We recommend 2,000 IU daily total dose. Vitamin D is a necessary component of good bone health. We are learning other important functions of vitamin D every year. Remember (from last month)
Cedar Valley Character Counts Committee honored WATERLOO — The Cedar Valley Character Counts Committee has been selected as the recipient of the 2009 Iowa Character Award Oct. 17 at the Iowa Character Awards Banquet in West Des Moines.
The award, presented by the state organization Character Counts! In Iowa, is given to the Iowa community that has developed an active task force and a comprehensive, sustained community-wide initiative support-
ing the Six Pillars of Character — Trustworthiness, Respect, Responsibility, Fairness, Caring and Citizenship — and has integrated character development throughout the entire community.
that you also need 1,200 to 1,500 mg of calcium daily for strong bones. Calcium citrate is easier to absorb and not more than 600 in a single dose.
We have covered the two absolutely essential components for good bone health. We will explore other issues in coming months.
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Community banks still lending to small businesses The United States Small Business Administration’s Office of Advocacy 2009 edition of “The Small Business economy — A Report to the President” stated: “The top concerns in the middle of 2008 included poor sales and inflation; by year’s end, access to credit was a Josef M. Vich major concern.” is chief executive There is a officer of Community National p e r c e p t i o n bank credit has Bancorporation in tightened to the Waterloo. Contact him at point that it is (319) 291-6760 or nearly impos(866) 258-2265. sible for a small business to get a loan. This couldn’t be further from the truth. Banks and small businesses need each other to stay healthy. Community banks have a long history of providing the capital small business needs to survive and thrive. Despite the current economic downturn, community banks are still lending and actively seeking loans to small businesses.
The facts
Small businesses represent 99.9 percent of the nation’s businesses. Small businesses pay nearly 50 percent of the total U.S. private payroll. Loans from community banks help small
businesses get established, stay in business or expand, and create 60 to 80 percent of net new jobs each year. Clearly small businesses and banks need each other as we recover from this recession. The SBA report cited above also said, “In sum, small firms struggled mightily in the recessionary economy of 2008 — and if the past is an indication, they will likely help lead the economic recovery.”
Reality in the Cedar Valley
The Cedar Valley has grown over the years because of the high number of small businesses. This growth was fueled with capital from strong community banks willing to work with small businesses. This combination has allowed the Cedar Valley to survive this recession with less economic downturn than many communities. While most businesses and banks have felt the impact of the recession, working together we will rebound more quickly than many communities.
Borrower tips
not comfortable with business lending. ■ Identify the risks in your company and industry and have a plan to mitigate them. ■ Provide a business plan that includes at least two ways to pay back the loan. ■ Prepare a detailed cash flow projection supporting the company’s ability to repay the loan. ■ Come prepared with a realistic business plan projection. ■ Be prepared to provide historical financial information and tax returns for at least 3 years. In addition to these tips, take advantage of the many resources we have for small businesses in the Cedar Valley. Some of them are shown below: ■ Greater Cedar Valley Alliance. Hawk Economic ■ Black Development. ■ Hawkeye Community College Business and Training Programs. Regional Business ■ UNI Center. ■ UNI Business and Training Center. ■ UNI Executive Development Center. ■ UNI John Pappajohn Entrepreneurial Center. ■ UNI Strategic Marketing Services. ■ Waterloo Industrial Development Association.
Small business owners can position themselves to be more likely to get a business loan if they prepare before speaking with their lender. Here are just a few tips to consider: ■ Find a community bank that specializes in lending to small The future businesses. Some banks are The Cedar Valley has a bright more consumer oriented and are future. As we emerge from the
How to make the most of a telephone job interview The Associated Press
With so many candidates in the job market, employers are more likely to use telephone interviews to screen those seeking work, according to the outplacement firm ClearRock. They give this advice for those hoping to parlay a short phone chat into an in-person meeting: ■ Smile while talking. It conveys enthusiasm and likeability. ■ Stand up to better project your voice and sound more confident.
■ Don’t use a cell phone or a speaker phone. The quality of the call is better on a land line, and a dropped call can mean a dropped opportunity. ■ Have a list of questions prepared in advance to ask, and listen carefully to what the interviewer is saying. Be sure to answer the questions you are asked. ■ Never interrupt the interviewer. If you feel nervous, silently count about two or three seconds after he or she has finished talking before you do.
■ Eliminate one-word answers and negative words. Don’t reply with “yes” or “no” answers, and banish negative verbs from your vocabulary. ■ Recap why you’re a good fit for the job. Have a 30-second summary of your suitability for the position prepared, using specific examples from your career. ■ Ask about next steps. Inquire at the end of the call how well your qualifications meet their needs and their time frame for filling the job.
businesses that have shown good management. Working together, we will help the Cedar Valley flourish as we enter a new decade in 2010.
current recession, there will be opportunities for small businesses to prosper and grow. Your local community banks are anxious to lend to and work with small
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New efficient appliances will cut your utility bills Major appliances have been around for decades, long enough that people tend to take them for granted. They keep our food cold or even frozen. When we are ready to eat, they cook are favorite dishes to perfection. Plus, Shawn they make Courtnage is the sales manager cleaning and for Stanley Appliance drying our in Waterloo. dirty clothes Contact him and dishes at (319) 235-0900. easy chores to complete. Most people do not realize how much easier appliances make are life until they break down. If one of your older appliances does quit working, most of the time you are better off replacing it instead of fixing it. New appliances look better, are easier to clean and have many new features to make them work better. But the No. 1 reason to update is that new appliances are much more energy efficient than older ones. Refrigerators, freezers, washing machines and dishwashers have made the biggest improvements in energy consumption. Generally, the older the appliance is the more energy it will use. For example, a 20-yearold refrigerator might use three times as much power as a new Energy Star refrigerator, while a 10-year-old refrigerator might use closer to twice the power of a new Energy Star refrigerator. Even if the appliance is just seven or eight years old, most of the time a person is better off replacing it with a new more energy-efficient appliance than fixing the old one. Appliance manufacturers have developed many ways to
improve the efficiency of their products. Refrigerators have smaller, more efficient compressors, defrost systems that work on demand instead of on a set time schedule, and better insulation. Washers use less water, spin faster, use lower water temperatures and have bigger capacities than older models. Front loading washer are known for being more energy efficient, but even new top loading washers are more efficient then models from just a few years ago. Dishwashers made today also have smaller motors, smaller pumps and use less water then older dishwashers. A new appliance can pay for itself in as little as five years or less because of reduced utility bills compared to an older appliance. It varies based on the local utility rates and how old the original appliance was. All appliances made today have to meet the governmentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s requirements for energy consumption. So any new refrigerator or washer you buy today is going to be more energy efficient then your old one. Even better, many appliances beat the government requirements. These appliances will have an Energy Star rating. Many utility companies will give consumers rebates on Energy Star appliances ranging from $20 to $150.
Check with your local utility company to find out what kind of rebates they may have for appliances. The federal government is also developing rebates for Energy Star appliances purchased in 2010 similar to the cash for clunkers program of last year. Up to $300 million will be divided among the states on a per capita basis. The rebates will be available through February 2012 or until the money runs out. Most experts expect the funds to run out quickly. The rebates are expected to range from $50 to $250 depending on the type of appliance purchased and what state the consumer lives in. To find out more on the progress of what each state is planning, go to energysavers. gov and click on the state appliance rebate program. The bottom line to the consumer is that there has never been a better time to purchase a new refrigerator, freezer, dishwasher or washer than in 2010. Consumers should be able to get local utility rebates and maybe government rebates when they buy a new Energy Star appliance. Plus, consumers will save more money because of their reduced utility bills once the appliance is installed and feel good about helping the environment.
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Simple ways to limit spending and still salvage your lifestyle There are some simple ways to limit monthly spending without drastically changing your lifestyle. More Americans say theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re tightening their belts and feeling the squeeze. In fact, a new poll shows Kevin Siech that 30 percent of is with Primerica people in the U.S. Financial Services have cut back on in Cedar Falls. food, medicine Contact him at and other daily (319) 277necessities. 5353. For more So what are some information, visit relatively painless www.primerica. com/kevinjensiech ways to cut back on spending? Try these tips:
need. Forget brand loyalty and pick generic or sale items. You might also enroll in your storeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s coupon club or similar program. Shaving just $4 off your weekly grocery bill adds up to more than $200 a year. And instead of taking the family out for dinner, consider breakfast instead. The entrees are usually much cheaper.
Trim entertainment costs
Instead of going out to the movies, visit the library, where you can rent DVDs (usually classics and newer titles) for free. They also often carry copies of the latest book releases. Borrow just two books or movies a month that you would otherwise buy or rent and you save $120 to $240 a year. Also, look into bundling cable, Cut food spending telephone and Internet services Sure you have to eat, but you with one company and consider donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have to go broke. Start with negotiating for lower rates. If you a list and stick to only what you can reduce fees just $20 a month,
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Fewer than 40 percent of respondents in a survey could determine how many years it would take for the amount of money they owe on their credit cards to double. Understand what you owe and work to pay it off quickly. Credit card debt leaves you vulnerable to fluctuating rates and fees that affect your budget â&#x20AC;&#x201D; and the total amount you ultimately pay on a card. Financial professionals at Primerica have created a guide that can show how to take control of your financial life. To get a copy of â&#x20AC;&#x153;How Money Works,â&#x20AC;? contact me.
CVSHRM is an acronym you should know Do you know what STD, FMLA, ADA, SMART, SWOT, ABI, ECI, PHR, and SPHR all stand for? I wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t spell out each one of the acronyms listed, but they all have their importance in the human resource (HR) profession. Jill Katuin One imporis Manpower tant acronym branch manager is CVSHRM. and CVSHRMpublic relations The Cedar Valchairwoman ley Society for in Waterloo. Human Resource Management is a local professional organization devoted to the interests of those who manage the human assets of
Get your moneyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s worth
businesses, agencies and organizations. CVSHRM provides comprehensive information and tools to HR professionals, contributing to their knowledge, skills and career advancement. The group is in the process of giving its Web site a facelift. It will be full of HR-related information and a local source for businesses needing professional guidance. CVSHRM will be participating in several outreach events including Toys for Toys, Food Pantry Drive and a Workforce Readiness Event to help local job seekers with resumes, networking and interviewing advice. It will sponsor local high school students in a Business Horizon Leadership
Workshop this summer and will donate to the SHRM Foundation. The group will assist the Greater Cedar Valley Chamber of Commerce with its events. Most importantly we will be building alliances with area businesses and creating synergy around our HR profession. CVSHRMâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s mission is to invite all area professionals making decisions involving human assets of businesses, agencies, and organizations to join us each month to take advantage of the knowledge and experience of our presenters, our members and to participate in our outreach programs. CVSHRM meets the second Tuesday of each month, and 2010 is booked with top talent.
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Avoid infomercial buyer's remorse The Associated Press
Whether it’s to tighten your tummy, remove dead skin from your feet, give your hair a boost or using a towel that supposedly holds 12 times its weight in liquid, you may feel tempted by energetic pitchmen peddling such products via late-night infomercials. However kitschy or misleading, they’re often successful in getting people off the couch to reach for the phone and $19.95. But buyer beware, says Consumer Reports magazine, which recently tested a roundup of 15 infomercial products and found some disappointments. The $19.95 Slap Chop diced foods unevenly, while the PedEgg, a pedicure device that costs $9.99, did a good job removing calluses but left a mess. Still, there are some good offers. The Magic Jack, a voice over Internet Protocol device that costs $39.95, has a clear connection and is a great deal, the magazine said. Tired of buying as-seen-onTV products that aren’t worth the price? There’s got to be a better way! Well, there is! Here are Consumer Reports’
tips for avoiding infomercial buyer’s remorse: ■ Pause 10 minutes before making a purchase. The excited pace of the commercials boosts dopamine levels, so once they return to normal you’ll be feeling less impulsive — and less likely to buy something you don’t need. ■ Consider other options. The item may seem like the perfect solution to a common problem, but often they are simple ideas that can easily be duplicated, or aren’t even necessary. Soaking a pan in hot water overnight with dish soap may be just as effective as using the Grease Bullet cleaning tablets. ■ Listen for true “value” clues. When a pitchman cites a $40 value, then says he’ll give you two for one, that means the value is probably much less. ■ Calculate the real price by factoring in the shipping and handling charges. Sometimes those charges are nearly as much as the item itself. ■ Say no to add-ons. Those “operators standing by” will likely pitch additional products, accessories and refills — before you know whether the product even works.
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cedar valley business monthly
cvbusinessmonthly.com
february 2010
Computerized decision support for small businesses Today decision-making is more difficult; the need for decisionmaking speed has increased; overload of information is common; and there is more distortion of information. On the positive side, there is a Daniel J. greater emphaPower is with the sis on fact-based department of decision-makmanagement, ing. A complex College of decision-makBusiness Administration at ing environment the University of creates a need for Northern Iowa. c o m p u t e r i z e d decision support. Contact him at (319) 266-8007 Large businesses or daniel.power@ and organizations uni.edu or power@ use computerized dssresources.com decision support systems to better serve customers, control costs and monitor performance. Many small organizations have decision support as part of the accounting system or as a stand-alone computer application. With the recession apparently ending and a new cycle of technology spending starting, managers of small independent businesses need to consider the possibilities of new systems for customer relationship management, preparing bids, business intelligence and performance monitoring. Also, some companies may benefit from Web-based collaborative and document-sharing decision support technologies. The most common decision support applications for small organizations are report and query applications, forecasting tools, analytical computer models and frequent buyer applications. Small scale applications built using tools like MS Excel and MS Access are feasible, and hosted applications like those at Salesforce.com are possibilities. Also, in some lines of business you can find packaged applications with some decision support capabilities. The big problem is that it is easy to overstate the need and the
possibilities of computer decision support. My experience with small businesses has focused on cost estimating applications for manufacturing companies, bid generators for catering companies, small database applications, and residential construction cost estimators. Customer relationship management and improved data-driven forecasting also seem like promising applications for many small businesses. A decision support system is a computer application that analyzes business data and summarizes it so users can make better business decisions. A DSS is an “informational application” for supporting decision making rather than an “operational application” that collects data from business transactions. DSS is an all-inclusive term for more specialized systems like business intelligence, data warehouses, OLAP, desktop data bases with query tools, spreadsheet financial models, visual simulation models, optimization models built using a management science package, knowledge management tools for indexing and searching text data bases, Web information systems that support management decisionmaking and groupware. At some point an idea for a decision support system becomes concrete enough and the anticipated costs, benefits and risks are significant enough that a potential project sponsor decides to conduct a feasibility study. What should you do? An idea for a decision support system is an abstraction and an
imperfectly formed concept that must become concrete for it to be systematically analyzed. Sometimes an analysis focuses on “gono go.” At other times a feasibility analysis compares concept A to concept B and sometimes to “no change” in current practices. The feasibility study should determine the pros and cons, costs and benefits of a proposed system. Also, the feasibility study should examine the technical, competitive and economic prospects related to developing a DSS. This study should occur prior to actually committing resources to developing a proposed DSS. An extensive feasibility study examines issues like proposed DSS scope, the targeted users and their needs, anticipated DSS impacts, benefits, risks and mitigating factors. Shorter, less comprehensive studies are prepared for small scope DSS projects. What are the rules for building successful decision support applications? Rule 1: Keep initial decision support applications simple and avoid grand solutions. The builders must have experience with the decision and the existing decision process prior to designing computerized support. Rule 2: Tackle significant problems. A solution that provides some improvement is often enough to justify the cost. Rule 3: Novel, innovative systems should be initiated by the managers who would use them. As technology and circumstances change, we can expect that managers will have ideas for “new” DSS. The advent of hand-held
computers and wireless technologies are examples of technologies that managers may choose to adopt for decision support. Rule 4: Decision Support System projects must meet a need and provide benefits that justify the ongoing cost of operating, maintaining and upgrading the system as well as the cost of building them. Rule 5: DSS should be built by a team that include potential users and technical specialists. Rule 6: Prepare for technology shortfalls. Technology applications can be frustrating, so keep expectations modest. Rule 8: Tell everyone as much as
you can about the costs of creating and using the proposed DSS Rule 9: Once the application is built, invest in training and market and promote it. We should consider building a computerized decision support system when: 1) Good information is likely to improve the quality of decisions; and 2) Potential DSS users recognize a need for and want to use computerized support. For more information about DSS visit http://DSSResources. com or check my recent book Decision Support Basics, http:// businessexpertpress.com.
We’ve been building your homes for a long time.
MARTINSON
c o n s t r u c t i o n
3842 West Airline Highway | Waterloo, IA 50703 phone 319-232-4000 | fax 319-232-5020
www.wcfcourier.com
Friday, January 29, 2010
“My faith in
cedar valley business monthly
“My Kids.”
God.”
—Tom H oldiman , Holdim
an Motor
ity Bo ner, Commun —Jason Kit
aterloo dy Shop - W
“My pers ona happy, he l energy comes fr althy, and om the d esi successfu to make l children re to raise a positiv e contrib . I also st involved rive utio in - I love making p n to everything I’ eople sm m —Jennifer ile!” Siech, P rimerica F inancial Se rvices - C edar
- Cedar F alls
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Falls
“Working ou t in the mor ning, eating ting enough right and ge sleep.” tenerfair amount of owners need a mes co gy er en “Most business al n. My person io at iv ot job, m lf ur se yo gy and n you love what I do. Whe ng yi jo ” it. en do om fr ergy to ve a lot more en you seem to ha Cedar Falls —Dave Bartle
nstruction -
Co tt, Dave Bartlett
—Matt Halbu r, Rydell Auto - Waterloo
such as chiro“I am a believer in alternative medicines that help me cts produ health and e nctur practic, acupu e the day to with the energy to run my business and handl de can have day stresses of life. Keeping a positive attitu plus your affect a lot to do with how you handle your day on others.”
—Carol Crandall, Crandall Construction - Waterloo
In last month, Jennifer Siech was incorrectly identified as affiliated with Laurene Ericson. The correct identification under the photo should be Jennifer Siech.
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cedar valley business monthly
cvbusinessmonthly.com
february 2010
Virtualization is taking off with small business When it comes to small business, things change fast. Small businesses have to adapt to these changes to stay viable and profitable. Looking back at 2009, one of the Matt Dockter biggest changes was server virtuis ACES senior alization taking systems engineer and hold as a viable VMware certified technology. professional in ACES set up VMware’s vSphere a lot of virtual 4 product line. servers for a lot Contact him at (319) 266-9800. of different sized
companies with a palette of requirements that would make an experienced painter bug-eyed in amazement. I’m sure many companies are wondering if virtualization is right for them. For small businesses a server has usually been a beefed-up piece of hardware that runs a single operating system, which in turn allows multiple applications to run on top of it. The applications range from Microsoft Office used by Terminal Services users to Microsoft SQL used for an enterprise resource planning or line of business application. Such a set up is a wonderful thing.
Typically, many applications can live together, but on occasion there are problems with multiple applications running on the same server. For example, Microsoft recommends against running Terminal Services and SQL Services on the same server. Businesses that need both would then need to purchase a second piece of expensive beefed-up hardware to place on their network, with a new operating system, and run two servers side by side. Virtualization allows you to run multiple operating systems on the same piece of beefed-up hardware. Virtualization keeps
Whatever your situation, volunteering is easy It’s not as difficult as you might think to volunteer by getting involved in your community. You can have fun and do your part to support planetfriendly, green initiatives. If you have: ■ 1 hour: You could clean up a local park or walk a dog. Anne Nass ■ 5 hours: You is communications could help plant coordinator for a tree or mow a the Volunteer lawn. Center of Cedar ■ 5 days: You Valley in Waterloo. could organize a Contact her at recycling drive. (319) 272.2087 or anne_nass@ ■ 1 month: You could volunteer at vccv.org. a nature center or youth camp. ■ 1 year: You could adopt an endangered animal or help rehab facilities. To find the perfect volunteer opportunity: 1. Find your passion — Figure out what causes or organizations you feel strongly about to start your volunteering journey. There are many environmental causes from recycling, to energy to animals. Consider a park cleanup or a tree planting with organizations like Cedar Valley Arboretum and Botanic Gardens or
Waterloo Leisure Service. 2. Think about your strengths — Consider what skills you have and how you can offer them to help the environment. If you already enjoy a hobby where you use particular skills, expand those skills into a volunteering opportunity. If you are athletically inclined, consider volunteering at Hartman Reserve Nature Center to lead nature hikes. 3. Expand your skills and knowledge — Research environmental volunteer opportunities that provide you the opportunity to learn new skills and experience new situations. If you’ve always wanted to work outdoors, consider volunteering time to help organizations such as the Salvation Army or Cedar Falls Historical Society by helping with grounds keeping. 4. Match up your goals — Pick an environmental organization or volunteering activity that helps you accomplish goals you have set in your own life, such as saving animals. Volunteering might include working with Pet Pals or the Cedar Bend Humane Society. If you are interested in teaching, consider volunteering time with educational programs like Waterloo Community Schools or the Hawkeye Adult Literacy Program.
5. Teamwork — Consider volunteering as a family or group of friends. Spending time together for an environmental cause to make a difference really brings groups closer together and teaches valuable life lessons. Family Volunteer Day is a great place to start in on the fun, but do not wait for November! The Volunteer Center of Cedar Valley can assist you in finding the perfect volunteer opportunity with access to over 180 opportunities from over 50 non-profit organizations in the Cedar Valley.
each operating system virtually separate from one another (hence the name) so applications that have compatibility issues can in effect run on separate servers (virtual servers) when in reality they aren’t on separate servers. Virtualization also allows a business to better utilize its hardware. For a typical small business, the CPU and memory usage on a non-virtualized server is never 100 percent. By adding a second operating system with separate apps to the hardware, you can use up some of those untapped resources. Virtualization can overcome a
lot of hurdles a growing small business runs into when it finds it needs a second or third server. But virtualization isn’t for everyone. If your business uses only one server, you don’t need a new virtualized server. However, all businesses want to grow, and virtualization is a good thing to keep in mind when you find yourself needing a second server. In those situations virtualization might be the key to save a lot of money. To learn about the environmentally friendly aspects of virtualization. Download this whitepaper from IBM at: www.acesiowa. com/virtualization.
0129005 TNK HEALTH FOOD STORE BIZ MONTHLY 2x2
Machine Shop, Job Shop...
10 reasons to volunteer
1. To help others. 2. To make a difference. 3. To make connections with your community. 4. To develop new skills. 5. To meet new people. 6. To expand your horizons. 7. To contribute to a cause you care about. 8. To express yourself. 9. To strengthen your skills. 10. To feel good about the contribution you are making and yourself. Contact the Volunteer Center of Cedar Valley to find the perfect volunteer opportunity by calling Lauren Pelleymounter, executive director, at 272-2087 or visit www.vccv.org.
Our Shop. Criterion, Inc.
2840 Burton Avenue, Waterloo, Iowa 50703
Phone: 319-291-6963 • Fax: 319-291-3072 Friday 0129060 CVBM 1-8V JN/AS ‘10
www.wcfcourier.com
Want to get posted? Call for advertising opportunities in future CVBM directories Contact Jackie Nowparvar at 319-291-1527.
Stay posted on the areaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s top businesses & services with this directory.
Hereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s My Card!
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cedar valley business monthly
PAGE 33
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terloo 827 West 5th St., Wa 00 st 09 (319) 2321 lls Fa Cedar (319) 277-1091 heating.com www.mikefereday
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(319) 277-6603
3014 Rownd Street 3 Cedar Falls, IA 5061
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cedar valley business monthly
cvbusinessmonthly.com
february 2010
Necessity is the mother of entrepreneurs in down economy By MEGAN HORN
With the unemployment rate at 10 percent according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, Cedar Valley residents have had to find new ways to earn income and support their families. Many have turned to entrepreneurship, something experts have coined “necessity entrepreneurship.” According to Maureen Collins-Williams, director of UNI’s Regional Business Center (RBC), necessity entrepreneurs are people who “turn to self-employment because they are forced to by circumstances beyond their control.” Some people become entrepreneurs out of necessity; others begin businesses because they see an opportunity. As the economy continues to be bleak, necessity entrepreneurship will be a hot topic. A recent study conducted by the Kauff-
man Foundation called The Index of Entrepreneurial Activity, found that patterns provide some early evidence that necessity entrepreneurship is increasing and opportunity entrepreneurship is decreasing. And trends throughout history show self-employment increases during times of economic stress and flattens out during good economic times. These national trends are also bein g seen locally. “We are seeing more and more individuals who have been ‘forced’ into entrepreneurship because of changes in their employment resulting from the recession,” said Collins-Williams. “I expect that trend to continue and even increase in the coming year.” Collins-Williams noted that not everyone turning to necessity entrepreneurship has lost a job. Some have simply had hours, pay or benefits cut and been forced to find new forms of income.
In small communities such as those in the Cedar Valley, it can be difficult for entrepreneurs and small businesses to find the assistance they need. CollinsWilliams and the Regional Business Center dedicate time and resources to helping this sometimes forgotten group. The RBC helps hundreds of entrepreneurs each year through its various programs. Without these and similar programs, the small-business environment would be much different. According to the National Business Incubation Association (NBIA), 85 percent of businesses in business incubators are still in business after five years. Compare that to the 44 percent average after four years. Many don’t realize the impact that small businesses have on the American economy. The Small Business Administration reports that small businesses represent
99.7 percent of all employer firms, employ just over half of all private sector employees, pay 44 percent of total U.S. private payroll and produce 13 times more patents per employee than large patenting firms. Necessity entrepreneurship is often overlooked but has a big impact on our nation and our community. As our economy goes through ups and downs in
Iowa BusIness MachInes, Inc.
the next few years, we will see the trend of necessity entrepreneurship change along with it, bringing new businesses and new opportunities. .
Megan Horn is a marketing/ public relations student assistant with the University of Northern Iowa’s Business and Community Services, a division of the College of Business Administration
over
75
Years
1009 Decathlon Drive Waterloo, IA 50701 • Sales • Service • Supplies (319) 235-0346 • 800-545-3383 Fax # (319) 233-3847
Jim Kayser
Sales Consultant
Computer Equipment Dictation Equipment Copiers Networking Computer Printers Calculators Cash Registers Facsimile Check Writers Time Clocks Typewriters
E-mail: jim.kayser@mchsi.com Web Address: www.iowabusinessmachines.com
cvbusinessmonthly.com
february 2010
cedar valley business monthly
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Lots of financing, insurance options for car buyers When financing a new or preowned vehicle, there are many factors to be aware of including interest rate, warranty, gap insurance and credit life insurance. Most franchised auto dealerships handle all your finance needs. After selecting your vehicle, the next step in the Bryan Butcher buying process financing. is sales manager at is Jerry Roling Motors Regardless of in Waverly. being a “cash Contact him buyer,” you are at (319) 352-1650. still involved in the finance process. Franchised automotive dealerships all have finance and insurance departments that assist you through the finance process. The business manager will present many options for a finance package. There is a good chance the dealership already works with your preferred financial institution and can secure the loan directly for you and sometimes at a better rate. Most dealerships work with many different financial institutions giving the dealership the advantage of shopping for the rate and term that best fits your needs. Down payment is also an important factor. Try to budget at least a 10 percent or higher. If this does not fit within your budget, pay upfront for the tax, title and license fees. Both factors will always reduce your monthly payments. The next step is reviewing your vehicles mechanical warranty. Most new vehicles come standard with a 36,000-mile or three-year warranty or higher.
If you think or know that you will be keeping your vehicle for more than the factory covered period, it is recommended that you purchase extended service contract coverage through the dealership. Remember, miles go much quicker than years. Warranties are an important insurance benefit that give you peace of mind. Purchasing an extended warranty through the dealership has many advantages: You know and trust the dealership and service department, get the best price, and you have recourse. Recourse is important when purchasing any extended warranty. Some companies offer extended coverage over the television or by direct mail. The danger is that you do not know the company and may incur problems in the event of claim. By purchasing directly from the dealer, you have a direct line of communication in the event of a breakdown, questions or concerns. Many preowned vehicles also qualify for extended service coverage. The next product offered isguaranteed auto protection insurance, which protects you in the event of a “total loss.” GAP helps cover the deficiency balance left if your vehicle has been declared a total loss. GAP insurance pays the difference between actual cash value paid out by the insurance company for your vehicle loss and the current outstanding balance of your loan or lease. Some GAP policies will also pay your insurance deductible (usually up to $1,000) as part of your coverage. Here is an example: You purchase a vehicle for $28,000. After one year the market value of your vehicle is down to $21,000 and you owe $25,000
on your loan. That leaves $5,000 you would be responsible for if your car was stolen or declared a total loss from an accident and you were to receive actual cash value as a settlement on the vehicle. GAP insurance (that paid for your deductible as well as the difference) would cover the $5,000 that without the policy you would be responsible for. The third product is credit life and accident and health insurance coverage. When you finance your vehicle you are responsible for the loan. The average vehicle loan is 60-72 months depending on the vehicle and year. During the course of the loan if you become ill, disabled or die, your vehicles payments will be made for you or perhaps paid in full if you carry this insurance. Many customers should take advantage of this coverage, regardless of their age or health. There is no pre-screening and the coverage begins the day of purchase. After all of the products have presented and explained in detail, you must make the
important decision of what with your vehicle’s payment. products best fit your needs. Always consult with your dealer In most cases, the products during and after the sale. explained can all be financed
Providing energy efficient lighting technology and products that reduce energy consumption by 50% or more, while increasing the quality and quantity of light as well as reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
Care during the day for seniors
1505 4TH STREET, SW. WAVERLY IA 319.352.1650. • 800.555.3779 www.jerryrolingmotors.com
Friday 0129049 BJ/AS 1-16H CVBM ‘10
A day out for seniors and a day off for caregivers
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cedar valley business monthly
cvbusinessmonthly.com
february 2010
Sump pumps and other ways to keep your basement safe and dry By SCOTT MARTINSON
We all get manuals for fridges and furnaces. Maybe itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s time to do a basement manual. The goal is to keep the inside dry. Sump pumps: Once a month check your sump pump â&#x20AC;&#x201D; more often when itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s raining. Know its cycle. Does it run when it rains? Does it run when it doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t rain? In the spring when it starts raining or when the snow melts, check to see if the pit is full of water. I like to bypass the sensor by plugging the pump in direct for a moment to see it work. Sometimes the sensor is sleeping. Sometimes a rock can jam the impeller. Make sure you reconnect the sensor properly. Sump pumps, depending on their usage, last from two to five years. Know how old yours is. Pumps work hardest when it
rains. Thunderstorms can knock out electricity. Sump pumps run on electricity. Be ready. Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve seen two pumps in one pit. Two pits with three pumps and battery backups. New pumps in boxes ready to go when called on. Outside your home make sure water is managed correctly. Make sure your sump pump line is getting away from the house. Down-
spouts need to get away from the house at least 10 feet. Make sure they are running correctly. Get on the roof to clean the gutters. Check the grade around your house. Make sure water gets away from your foundation. The backfill around your foundation continues to settle for years. Look under your deck. Put fill in so you have positive fall away from
your house. Let your lawn and landscaping manage your water on the surface. Radon. Check radon levels to keep your family safe from this odorless, invisible gas. The trend is for finished basements. Family rooms and movie rooms are expensive. We ask our foundations to do more than
ever. Follow these simple guidelines and life should be better. One more thing, clean your outside air conditioning fins in the spring with a hose until you see water run clear. Scott Martinson is with Martinson Construction Co. in Waterloo. Contact him at (319) 232-4000.
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february 2010
Landscaping can help you reduce energy costs Reducing energy costs is on all our minds. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, the typical family spends about $1,900 a year on home utility bills, a good chunk of that on wasted energy. However, as a nation we are beginning to catch on to the longterm benefits, especially to our wallets, of improvenergy Mollie Benning ing efficiency. Luze Don’t forget is the director of horticulture at to let Mother the Cedar Valley Nature help Arboretum and reduce your Botanic Gardens, energy costs. 1927 E. Orange Road, In its simplest Waterloo. Contact form, landher at scaping is liv(319) 226-4966 ing insulation or director@ cedarvalleyarboretum. for our home. org. In the winter, landscaping can help reduce the loss of heat. In the summer, it can reduce heat absorption by blocking the sun’s penetration using woody and
herbaceous plant material in the form of shade, windbreaks and foundation plantings. The benefit of using deciduous trees as shade trees is that their large canopies shade the roof of your home in the summer but then also drop leaves in the fall so that the sun can heat your home throughout the winter. To take best advantage of the shade, plant trees so they provide shade during the warmest time of the afternoon. Beautiful examples of shade trees you can see first-hand at the Cedar Valley Arboretum include maple, oak, buckeye, honeylocust and hickory. With so many excellent varieties available, it is important to consider the space available. In large expanses, a majestic oak would be just right while in a small backyard, such a large tree would look disproportionate. Also, planting quick growing trees is often not in your best interest. Quick growing often means weaker wood that is liable to break in wind or ice storms and is often more susceptible to disease and insects. Examples
include silver maple and many varieties of birch. Other benefits of planting shade trees include reducing heat from surrounding paved areas, preventing soil erosion and improving air quality. Instead of a fabricated fence, why not try a living windbreak instead? Many large shrubs lend themselves quite nicely to windbreaks that provide privacy and a more natural backdrop to your property. The arboretum uses a large collection of arborvitaes to help protect the rose garden from the harsh elements. You can also find a lilac hedge along our main road that is lush throughout the
season and delivers an enticing sweet smell in early summer. Foundation plantings are the shrubs, small ornamental trees and herbaceous plant material found directly around your home. To see shrubs with a variety of textures, colors, proportions and seasonal interests, visit the arrival gardens found just east of the arboretum’s parking lot. Want to try something a bit out of the ordinary and still provide some insulation for your home’s exterior? Consider growing vines such as clematis, climbing rose or trumpet vine on a trellis. Or consider growing espaliered fruit trees along your house. Espalier
is the French pruning technique of training the trunk and branches of the fruit tree to grow in one plane. Visit the entrance of the arboretum’s rose garden, to see a variety of fruit trees trained to grow flat along the cedar fence. Along with reduced energy bills, there are many other benefits of a planning your landscaping with energy efficiency in mind. Plantings decrease noise pollution by muffling sound. They can increase your property values. Trees, shrubs and herbaceous material provide a natural habitat for wildlife. And don’t forget the health benefits you can receive by working outdoors.
Blazing fast response. High performance service. A leading national provider of electrical and communications services.
Call us for your commercial and residential needs.
319 -232-3913 24–HOUR EMERGENCY SERVICE AVAILABLE
www.ies–co.com 2700 Falls Ave., Waterloo, IA 50701 Major credit cards accepted. Licensed, Bonded and Insured. ©2010 Integrated Electrical Services, Inc.
Friday 0129063 JN/AS 1-8S CVBM ‘10
Airgas • Comfort Suites • Dalton Plumbing Heating & Cooling • Point Buillders, LLC • Interior Source • Cambrian Granite and Stone
The Cedar Falls Industrial Park
Growth Through Success...
Friday, January 29, 2010
www.wcfcourier.com
cedar valley business monthly
• Federal Tax Credits may apply up to 30% Unlimited • Replaces current Water Heater • Save on natural gas costs • Installed in just one day
5814 Westminster Dr. Cedar Falls, IA 50613
Call today to sChedule an
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Shannon Boyle
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Toll free: 800.453.4370 Local: 319.266.7160
We have the largest natural stone inventory in the Cedar Valley
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To have your business listed on the next Cedar Falls Industrial Park Page, please call Niche Publications at 291-1527.
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Jack E. Jennings
Restaurant Building Investment
t Built in 1989 t .562 acres
Retail Investment
124 1st Ave. SE, Oelwein t $1,270,000 t 8% cap rate t Just finished Dec. 2009
t 10yr NNN Lease w/ bumps t 2-5yr options t Allen Health System
Office Investment
1237 Flammang Dr., Waterloo t $2,800,000 t 9% cap rate t High visibility
Brady A. Gruhn, CCIM
Medical Office Investment
5907 University Ave., Cedar Falls t $600,000 t 5,905 sf
Dustin W. Whitehead, CCIM
Friday, January 29, 2010
t High traffic corner t Solid tenants t Great secondary use
1402-1404 Main St., Cedar Falls t $289,000 t Stable tenant
t Large parking lot t Great for owner occupant
For information on these and other commercial listings, call:
(319) 277-8000 www.LockardOnline.com
All information contained herein is given by sources deemed reliable. While we have no reason to doubt its accuracy, all information is provided without representation of warranty.
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