March2012Volume 20 Number 3

Gain A Competitive Edge with a Designation pg 12 / What is REX? How to Get Involved pg. 15

Does Housing Pay For Itself? Yes! pg. 4 / MBA Volunteer Opportunities pg 8

In the midst of all the 2012 political campaigning and March madness,

it only seems fitting that the MBA Membership Committee get in on a little of the action - with a bit of a “membership” twist. I think 2012 is shaping up to be an exciting and fun year for recruiting! I’d like to introduce our 2012 “Just One” campaign. The premise of this campaign is very simple. As proud members of the MBA, we have joined and continue to support this organization for the reason the MBA exists. To promote the interests of the home building industry through membership involvement, legislative action, networking and education while striving to maintain the highest ethical standards. In your daily personal or business activity, isn’t there someone you interact with that you believe would greatly benefit from being part of this association? Do you know an individual or company that could bring something valuable to share with the general membership? Invite them to join us. Just ask. It’s just that simple. Have them come as your guest to an upcoming event and introduce them to other members. Give them one of our membership brochures that list all the benefits members are entitled to (i.e., discount programs, health benefits, GRIP program, etc.). Imagine that if every member recruited Just One New Member, we would have 1,143

members at the end of 2012 and be the 5th largest association in the country! How about a little competition you say? We’ve got that for you! Each month, for every new member you bring to the MBA, you receive an entry to win the “Recruiter Rewards” prize. Some of the prizes this year range from complimentary passes to events, gift certificates, and a suite for a game at the Tacoma Rainiers! Want to shoot for the stars? Recruit 7 new members by November 30, 2012and you will receive a trip for 2 to the 2013 NAHB International Builder’s Show in fabulous Las Vegas. The trip includes roundtrip airfare for two, transportation to and from the airport to hotel, hotel accommodations, passes to the show, and a welcome cocktail reception. Vegas baby! Finally, the NAHB has announced the Beat 2011 Program. This competition will provide us with the opportunity to receive a special one-time incentive if we grow our Builder

and Associate membership by the end of 2012. For every new member added by the end of December 31, 2012 over our membership total for December 31, 2011, the MBA will receive $75. What an incredible financial opportunity for our association! There are even some additional monthly incentive competitions and prizes including ipads. Watch for further details on these. With all these incentives available, I hope everyone will put their best effort into recruiting for 2012 and continue to strengthen our membership foundation. Along with being an active recruiter, I invite you to attend one of the regular monthly membership committee meetings and bring your great ideas and input. As always, if you have any questions please contact Kim Taylor or myself. Together, as a team, let’s make 2012 one of our strongest membership years ever!

- Ernie Dittmann,ServiceMaster of Tacoma

Membership Chair

2012- Campaigns, Competitions, Fun!Imagine that if every member recruited Just One New Member, we would have 1,143 members at the end of 2012 and be the 5th largest association in the country!

A Century of Performance + Integrity 253.752.7000 fax 253.759.7567

graylumber.com

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MBA- What We’re Doing to HelpRick Hjelm, Phase II General Contractor, Inc.

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

and a competitive business advantage for you.

James Hardie Complete Exterior

Lap | Shingle | Panel | Trim

©2012 James Hardie Technology Limited. AD1201

Greater than the sum of its parts

Years ago in a little town in eastern Idaho, I learned to love math at the

feet of Mr. Harding Gibbs. There were those in the class that complained that they’d never use what he was teaching and he’d remind them that math was an integral part of life’s lessons. “Everything we do includes math”, he’d reply. He also taught me that math doesn’t lie! Those memories came flooding back as I listened and learned from the presenters at the MBA housing forum. Slide after slide from their powerpoint presentations brought to the forefront the impact of what the building community does for the local economy. Look at the math in the statistics! It doesn’t lie! Too many out there trying to figure out how to improve the economy have forgotten how housing has been the bulwark during past recessionary periods. They’ve forgotten not only

the financial impact we have on communities, but also the positive impact that homeownership has on the quality of life in those communities. All they have to do is look at the math! It’s an open book test, and the notes were provided. As I write this, you need to know that your MBA & LSC leadership is traveling to meet with the leadership of the cities within Pierce County. We’re also visiting with the County leadership. During these visits we’re learning of the challenges pertaining to the building industry within the Cities and the County and their building departments, and together we’re discussing how we can play an important role in working together to meet those challenges. We’re learning how the cities and county leaders view the MBA and our mission and in a few cases learned we have work to do. We also meet with these officials on a regular basis at our Friday Forum, where everything is on the table we continue to find ways to work together. Now, I wish I had a magic wand and could thump those on the head who have the ability to fix the financial and appraisal issues, but I can’t. I wish I could walk up behind them and pull that fine hair on the back of their necks that Mr. Gibbs would grab when he caught me talking, but I can’t. I wish I had instant answers to the hard questions many of you ask about the future, but I don’t. But what I can offer is hope. There’s no crystal ball or manual to look at to tell us what the next step is, but that’s not keeping us from stepping ahead anyway. Your MBA leadership doesn’t have all the answers, but we’re surrounded by smart and resilient members who just might. Thinking back to that small school, to have a football team, everybody had to play. There were mostly parents in the stands. So goes it for us in the MBAPC. There’s very little room for you in the stands, but we need you on the field. So suit up and find out what position you play. We need each other to win this one.

During these visits we’re learning of the challenges pertaining to the building industry within the Cities and the County and their building departments, and together we’re discussing how we can play an important role in working together to meet those challenges.

March 2012 | www.mbapierce.com - 3

MBA Staff

Executive CommitteeRick Hjelm, CGR/CR

President

Board of Directors

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

Volume 20, Number 3, Dimensions is published 12 times per year: monthly in Jan., Feb., March, April, May, June, July, Aug., Sept., Oct., Nov. and Dec. by the Master Builders

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

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

Kurt WilsonVice President Treasurer

Joe Maxwell2nd Vice President

Joe ZehnderVice President Secretary

Gary PedersenImmediate Past President

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Lifetime State DirectorsRobert Camp, Don Cash, Lyle

Fox, Steve Garitone, John Slott

Lifetime National Directors

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

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

Tiffany Speir- ext. 104 Executive Officer

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

Shawn Hoey- ext. 101 Government Affairs Manager

Local DirectorsKent Arola, Josh Dunn,

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

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

CAPS, Laureen Skrivan, Kurt Wilson, Dale Yeager,

Tim Yokes, Duke York CGR/CAPS, Sue Zimmerman

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

Matt Rock, Tom O’Connor

National DirectorsBob Camp (Alt), Mike Fast CGR,

Lyle Fox (alt), Carrie Litowitz,

Robert Camp, Ray Dally, Mike Fast, CGR, Lyle Fox, Jim Yurina

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

Communications/Marketing Manager

7‘sLuckyMBA Recruiters are working their

way to the 2013 International Builders Show in Las Vegas – want to be there?

Recruit 7 new Builder/Associate members by November 30 and WIN BIG – a trip for 2 to Las Vegas January 22-25, 2013. Includes airfare, hotel, cocktail reception, admission to IBS and the famous Spikes Only Party.

13 Members are already working their way to earning their Las Vegas digs: Kurt Wilson (SoundBuilt Northwest) has 4 new members, Kent Arola (Wind River Homes) has 2, and Klaas DeBoer, Ernie Dittmann, Lyle Fox, Dave Graff, Rebecca Jones, Cathi Mahan, Gary Pedersen, Scott Wilson, Duke York, Joe Zehnder and Sue Zimmerman all have 1.

JUST ADDED – another way to earn your way aboard this trip – join the TRC (Targeting Real Connections) Committee to sell sponsorships and get your sold sponsorship dollars credited towards earning your trip to Las Vegas! To be eligible, you must be a member of the TRC Committee and sponsorship commitments must be signed prior to April 30, 2012. Contact Kawehi Marshall to sign up now!

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Tiffany Speir, Esq.

Does Housing Pay for Itself? Yes!

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

Windows Doors Siding Millwork

Decking Fencing Cabinets Appliances

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

Whole House Solutions

continued on page 5

At its own annual Housing Forum on February 15, MBA welcomed

NAHB’s Senior Economist Dr. Elliot Eisenberg, who presented his findings regarding the local economic impact of housing for unincorporated Pierce County, Bonney Lake, Tacoma, and Pierce County overall. In addition, Professor Glenn Crellin (UW Runstad Center for Real Estate Research) presented his residential construction forecast for Pierce County and Washington State, and Scott Jones from Newland Communities updated MBA and over 80 attendees on the plans for the Cascadia Development in 2012 and beyond.

Keynote speaker Dr. Eisenberg presented his findings based on the building activity in 2010 in unincorporated Pierce County and the cities of Bonney Lake and Tacoma. He drafted two reports for each jurisdiction and then in the aggregate, one focused on “Comparing Costs to Revenue for Local Governments” and the other on “Income, Jobs, and Taxes Generated.” Taken together, the reports address the often-raised question of whether housing pays for itself. The results were clear: based on 2010 numbers, over the first 15 years, the revenues from 666 homes built in greater Pierce County total $29 million more than the costs for local governments! Another key point highlighted by Dr. Eisenberg was that even in 2010, with homebuilding activity at historic lows, single family residential construction was one of the top 10 local employers in Pierce County. This number does not include those involved in remodeling or multifamily construction, so

homebuilding is an even bigger local employer than the report demonstrated!

March 2012 | www.mbapierce.com - 5continued on page 5

UPCOMING BIAW Webinars

March 22: Introduction To Online MarketingIf you are new to online marketing, or you just don’t understand how marketing online can help your small business, this webinar is for you. You will learn the basics of how online marketing works, how to generate leads, and how to integrate your online marketing strategy into you business.

April 5 How to Find Your Ideal Client Online Do you struggle with how to target your market online? You’re not alone. Learn how to identify your target online, find what they are searching for and target their interests to generate more business.

April 19: Local Search Marketing ExplainedAn Entire webinar focused on targeting your local market. If you have a service business or retail storefront you need to know these secrets. Learn now to leverage Google’s massive traffic engine to get in front of the potential clients you are looking for.

May 3: Erasing Online ‘Graffitti’ and Protecting Your Reputation Online.Unhappy Customers, angry employees, and unethical competitors can destroy your repretation. If you think this isn’t for you, think again. Now more than ever your prospects can assess your reputation online in seconds and it could cost you business.

Log onto biaw.com to register.

Your L&I premiums are increasing again. But for $99, MBA’s Group Retro Program (GRIP) can help lower your payments to L&I AND potentially help you earn refunds on e

Benefits of GRIP:• $99, 1-Time, Refundable Enrollment Fee• No Premium Minimum to Participate• FREE Claims Assistance• FREE Safety Program Assistance• FREE Education Programs• FREE Multilingual Services• Nurse Case Managers, Expert Witness & Legal Services and More

GRIPGroup Retrospective Insurance Program

SAVE MONEY, JOIN GRIP

Enrollment for 2012-2013 Plan Year starts NOWForms submitted by June 14 for July 1 start date

Also at the Housing Forum, Professor Glenn Crellin (UW Runstad Center for Real Estate Studies) provided an economic and construction trends analysis for Washington and Pierce County in 2012 and beyond.

Dr. Eisenberg’s full economic analysis reports and all Housing Forum speaker presentations are available on MBA’s website at www.mbapierce.com under Government Affairs. Special thanks to our event sponsor, Parr Lumber. If you missed the event, be sure to watch for the 2013 MBA Housing Forum next spring!

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M Ongoing Legislative IssuesTiffany Speir & Shawn HoeyIncluded below are a few of the issues MBA of Pierce County members and staff are tracking and advocating

for or against. These and other issues are discussed at the monthly Legislative Strategy Committee (LSC), which meets on second Tuesdays at 3:30 pm at the MBA office. All members are welcome! To find out more, please contact Shawn Hoey or Tiffany Speir at 272-2112. In addition, keep up to date throughout the month by reading the government affairs updates in MBA’s weekly e-mail.

MBA working with Local Governments to Create Standard Building Permit: MBA members and local government officials are drafting a standard building permit application that could be used in multiple cities and Pierce County. The next discussion about the draft will happen at the April 6 MBA Forum meeting (7 am at the MBA office.) For more information please contact Shawn Hoey.

Pierce County Issues:Pierce County Council reviewing Code Consolidation Phase III: The County Council has started its review of the Code Consolidation Phase III amendment package, and will continue its hearing on March 18 at 1:30 pm. The County is also looking to reduce bond time frames from 42 months to 24 months as part of the package. MBA members have worked since 2009 on the code consolidation effort and continue to support it. For more information, contact Tiffany Speir.

SEPA Categorical Exemptions Ordinance at Final Council Hearing March 20: The County Council will act on the ordinance that would amend SEPA categorical exemptions and make them consistent with state allowed maximums on March 20. MBA fully supports this ordinance.

City Issues:Bonney Lake:Cost of Septic Conversions: The Planning Commission has forwarded an ordinance to the City Council adding $500 to conversions of septic to sewer and connections of to the underground automatic fire sprinkler system for retrofits. The commission was unsure if the $500 fee was a reasonable amount and has indicated to the council that they should review the fee amount.

Lighting Code Ordinance: On March 7, 2012 the

Bonney Lake Planning Commission voted to forward the draft lighting code ordinance to the City Council. Currently this ordinance does not apply to residential areas; several Planning Commissioners expressed concern regarding nuisance complaint enforcement and have asked the Council to consider including residential areas. The MBA will continue to track this at the Council level

Puyallup:Planning Commission reviewing ordinance making changes to non-conforming use regulations: The ordinance would limit increased trips generated to 10% for a change in non-conforming use from the original. This 10% threshold would apply to the trips generated by the initial non-conforming use and not to increases from subsequent non-conforming uses. The ordinance would also allow for changes of use in small scale commercial to obtain an Administrative Conditional Use Permit rather than going through the full Conditional Use Permit process. The threshold for small scale commercial uses is 4,000 sq ft of structure or 10,000 sq ft of lot size. Larger commercial uses would have to go through the entire Conditional Use Permit process.

Tacoma:Affordable Housing Regulations Moving Forward: On March 5, Tacoma’s City Council Neighborhoods and Housing Committee began a series of meetings to consider proposed regulatory changes that would make providing affordable housing units as part of new projects easier and even profitable. Adoption of these changes will happen in a variety of ways due to city procedure, and will occur over the next year or so. MBA members and staff were involved in the task force that developed the recommendations. The next Council discussion will occur on April 16.

BLUS Fee Schedule Update: The Tacoma BLUS fee schedule update will be considered again by the Tacoma Council on April 4, and final action on a first phase of fee changes is scheduled for this summer. Phase 1 of fee changes will include creation of new fees for services currently provided for free, such as pre-application meetings; future phases will include changes to current fees to reflect actual cost for the service provided.

Tacoma Urban Forestry Regulations: The Tacoma Planning Commission will begin its review of the draft urban forestry requirements on March 21st; the public hearing is scheduled for May 2nd. The MBA will continue to track this issue and provide comments as needed.

March 2012 | www.mbapierce.com - 7

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Golf Classic Registration OPENS in April

Sponsorships still available

SEE YOU THEREJune 8 at Lipoma Firs

JOINTHE

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MBA Volunteer OpportunitiesRebuilding Together South Sound call for volunteers: Please help Rebuilding Together South Sound by using your connections to recruit new volunteers. We are always looking for people who can work independently and safely to deliver impactful home repairs. If you know anybody who might

be interested, please take the time to tell them about our work and the rewards it brings both personally and to the community. Contact Ben, our new CapacityCorps Year-Round Coordinator, to pass along any potential volunteers who would be receptive to a follow-up call. bgowdy@rebuildingtogetherss.org / (253) 238-0977. Thanks so much for your help! Remember you can always view our current volunteer projects online at www.rebuildingtogetherss.org Here are the projects that need volunteers:

• Bonney Lake – build wheelchair ramp• Bonney Lake – repair ramp, repair porch• Lakewood – replace screen doors• Puyallup – install wheelchair ramp (an architect volunteer is currently drawing plans) & new screen door• Puyallup – patch floor in mobile home and inspect wall for water intrusion• Puyallup – repair porch surface & widen manufactured home interior doorway for walker• Puyallup – permanently install ramp to wheelchair storage and modify doors to close over ramp• Tacoma – repair porch surface and rebuild entry stairs

Walk with the MBA Miracle Milers The MBA Miracle Milers are taking to the streets of downtown Tacoma again May 4 to help benefit the Sexual Assault Center of Pierce County, Rebuilding Hope. Join them for this one mile walk starting at the Washington State History Museum. Contact Laura Haworth at the MBA office if you would like to participate at 253.272.2112 ext. 102. Learn more at www.sexualassaultcenter.com/

MBA Proud PartnersMBA Proud Partners is a new

Dimensions Sponsorship. For just $150 your company name can be listed

with a link to your website. ONLY 100 available, contact Kawehi Marshall at

the MBA office to sign up today!

AHBL, Inc.www.abhl.com

Associated Petroleum Productswww.associatedpetroleum.com

Blue Dolfin Interiors barb.berntsen@gmail.com

Buffington Custom Homeswww.luxuryhomenw.com

Cascade Print Mediawww.cascadeprintmedia.com

Codel Entry Systems, Corp.www.codelentrysystems.com

Colbalt Mortgagewww.cobaltmortgage.com/

jenniferedwards/

Fournier Insurance Solutionswww.fourniersolutions.com

Getting Personal Imprinting LLCwww.gettingpersonalimprinting.com

Harbor Home Design, Inc.www.harborhomedesign.com

Hyland Cabinetworks, Inc.www.hylandcabinetworks.com

Jet Door LLCwww.jetdoorllc.com

Parr Lumber Co.www.parr.com

Pedersen Constructiongarypedersen123@cs.com

Puget Sound Energywww.pse.com

ServiceMaster Of Tacomawww.smtacoma.com

SoundBuilt Northwestwww.soundbuilthomes.com

8 - MBA DIMENSIONS

DID YOU KNOW? If every member of the MBA recruited JUST ONE new member in 2012, the MBA would end the year with 1,143 members and would be the 5th largest association in the country.

Registration Form 

 Name: __________________________________________ Address: ________________________________________ City:  ___________________State:________ Zip: _______ Phone: _____________________________ Email: __________________________________________ Team Name: _____________________________________    Event Details:  Friday, May 4, 2012 Washington State History Museum Registration starts at 11am Walk starts at noon  

Benefiting: 

 

Thank you February MBA Sponsors

AAA Kartak Glass & Closet Corp

Athena Milan Interiors, Inc.Karen Hirschman Designs, Inc.

Lakewood FordMarcia Keil Interior Design

Parker Drafting ServiceParr Lumber Co.

SoundBuilt NorthwestYork Enterprises

Contact Kawehi Marshall if you would like to sponsor

an MBA program or event at 253.272.2112 ext. 105 or at events@mbapierce.com.

March 2012 | www.mbapierce.com - 9

2012

REX

Celebrate The Best of the Best at the 2012 Remodeling Excellence Awards

S a v e t h e D a t e : May 15 5:30 pm

F I R C R E S T G O L F C L U B1500 Regents Blvd Fircrest, WA 98466

Attending: Design Professionals Council Twisted Tuesday Remodelors Council

Mail or fax this form to: MBA, PO Box 1913, Tacoma Wa 98401 ~ FAX 253.383.1047

http://ttapril.eventbrite.com/

Tech Tips to Increase Your Business with Tessa Miller, Social Media & Digital Manager, Business Examiner

April 12, 2012$15 DPC member/

$20 non-DPC member5:30 pm - MBA office

Tessa Miller

Includes dinner from Happy Teriyaki & beverages

RSVP At http://dpcapril.eventbrite.com

Tessa will be covering all types of free and low-cost tech tips to increase your business. Know someone interested in learning more about how to increase their business, more about the MBA and more about the Design Council? Invite them! All members are welcome!

April 246 pm

Come vist the NEW Parr Lumber Cabinet showroom. We are excited to have you see our new cabinets, floors, sinks and appliances. Enjoy

Networking with industry members and taste a few Mac & Cheese delights.

Hosted By: Parr Cabinet Outlet. 3500 20th St E, Fife

5:30 pm ~ Free to MBA members

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RSVP at http://rcapril.eventbrite.com/

Company ________________________________________________________________________________

Name/s_____________________________________________________________ Total $:______________Payment Method: o Check Enlosed o VISA o MasterCard o AMEX o DISC (Please check one)

CC # ____________________________________________________ Exp __________ VCode __________

Name on card _________________________Credit Card Billing Address _____________________________

City/State/Zip _____________________________________________________________________________

Join the Remodelors Council at Weir’s Appliance & Video for tasty appetizers

and a chance to meet their venders. This is our last meeting before the Remodeling

Excellence Awards on May 15.

10909 Portland Ave. ETacoma, WA

12 - MBA DIMENSIONS

With today’s changing market, it is more important than ever that building industry professionals maintain their edge. Like any other profession, a changing market can translate into fiercer competition for your

business. Earning a designation from NAHB Education can be a great way to distinguish yourself—and your company. This year, take the opportunity to advance your industry knowledge and skills. Having a designation tells clients that you have honed your business skills and have superior training, hands-on experience and in-depth knowledge of your profession. Designation holders can also take advantage of valuable networking opportunities during their enrollment, working closely with expert instructors and other professionals within their field and outside their specific areas of expertise For more information on professional designations from NAHB log onto www.mbapierce.com. Start the path to your designation today!.

Gain a Competitive Edge with A Designation

CERTIFIED GRADUATE ASSOCIATE (CGA) is offered to associate members. It provides the opportunity for understanding the home building business and how to provide valuable support and solutions to the industry. Learn basic management tools and improve your marketing and customer service skills. The CGA requires completion of 3 core and 3 elective classes.

CERTIFIED GRADUATE REMODELOR (CGR) is an exclusive designation offered to the remodeling industry. After meeting standard requirements, begin your path towards a CGR designation. Classes will provide you with resources to increase your professional credibility, enhance your competitive edge and expand your customer base.

CERTIFIED GRADUATE BUILDER (CGB) is recommended for professionals new to the building industry and/or working towards their Certified Master Builder (GMB) designation. Both designations offer classes that provide an overview of key areas in today’s home building industry. Areas including business management, marketing techniques, financial strategies, construction technologies and much more. To obtain your CGB you must first take the Builder Assessment Review (BAR) which will determine the specified courses needed to obtain the designation. For interest in obtaining your CGB, please contact Amanda at BIAW for specifics.

CERTIFIED SALES PROFESSIONALS (CSP) designation is designed for specialists in new home sales. Classes focus on increasing your marketability in the home building industry. Improve sales and marketing skills and enhance professional image. This designation is offered in a three-day program and will be credited with 24 continuing education real estate hours.

THE CERTIFIED AGING-IN-PLACE SPECIALIST (CAPS) program teaches the technical, business management, and customer service skills essential to compete in the fastest growing segment of the remodeling industry – home modifications for the aging-in-place. Designation requires completion of classes which provide market-specific information about working with older and maturing adults in remodeling their homes. To obtain the CAPS designation, you must complete all three CAPS courses.

THE RESIDENTIAL CONSTRUCTION SUPERINTENDENT (RCS) Designation is geared toward promising field superintendents, administrative personnel, associate members, trade foremen, builder members and anyone else wishing to excel in this position. The Designation’s eight courses cover issues and subjects identified by National Association of Homebuilder members as critical to a field supervisory job. The RCS certification is designed as an eight course consecutive program.

THE CERTIFIED GREEN PROFESSIONAL (CGP)™, an exclusive designation offered by the National Association of Home Builders, is designed to teach building industry professionals strategies for incorporating green building principles into homes using cost-effective and affordable options. When you become a CGP, you gain a greater understanding of techniques, knowledge of methods to achieve higher energy efficiency, marketing and sales tools specifically tailored to the green building, and the business practices that foster success. You’ll be able to demonstrate to consumers the enhanced environmental impact, increased performance and health benefits of green homes to potential buyers. Earning the CGP shows customers your commitment to staying current with industry innovations- including green building.

March 2012 | www.mbapierce.com -13

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General Events

March 15 GRIP—Claims 101 (only for

GRIP Participants)Location: MBA Office

March 20 General Membership Meeting,

Member ExpoLocation: Rotunda—Clover Park

Technical College

March 21 PREP/BAR

Location: MBA Office

April 14GRIP- Claims 101

Location: MBA Office

April 17 Twisted Tuesday NetworkingLocation: Parr Cabinet Outlet-

Fife

April 28 Rebuilding Together

South Sound Rebuilding Day

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

April 12Tech Tips to Increase Your Business

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

Location: MBA Office

May 10Location: Floor Covering Express

June 14Gourmet Kitchen & Cooking Show at

Albert Lee Appliance Tacoma Location: Tacoma Mall Location

July 12BBQ Picnic & Potluck

Location TB

Remodelors™ Council6 p.m. - 4th Tuesday

March 27Albert Lee Appliances

Tacoma Store

April 24Weirs Appliance

May 15REX Award

Location: Fircrest Golf Club

June 26Keller SupplyTacoma, WA

July 24Annual Crab Feed

Chambers Bay Golf CourseGray Lumber (TORH Sponsor)

August 28Contract Furnishings Mart

(lifetime sponsor)

SEPTEMBER 25Crescent Lighting

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About Time Enterprises Inc.Harry Wheeler 1528 N Prospect StTacoma, WA 98406(253) 318-2987 (F) (253) 238-8691 www.abouttimeinc.comRemodeler, Residential; Remodeler, Commercial/Industrial; General ContractorSpike: Scott Lee Wilson

Augustson HomeKyle Augustson910 9th Ave NWPuyallup, WA 98371(253) 441-1248 Floor Coverings; Countertops Spike: Kent Arola

Barghausen Consulting Engineers Inc.George Newman18215 72nd Ave SKent, WA 98032(425) 251-6222 (F) (425) 251-5411 www.barghausen.comEngineering/SurveyingSpike: Kurt Wilson

TOP 25 RECRUITING SPIKES

Cobalt Mortgage-PuyallupAnn Liberato413 29th St NE, Ste EPuyallup, WA 98372(253) 268-1080 (F) (877) 279-1570 www.cobaltmortgage.com Mortgages/Specialty Financing Spike: Kurt Wilson

Ductless Supply / Home Energy SciencesJohn Bushnell1407 S Ferdinand Dr S Tacoma WA 98405(253) 274-9161 (F) (503) 345-6836 www.ductless-supply.comHeating/Cooling-HVACSpike: Duke York

Guild Mortgage Company Michael Fornerette2702 42nd St, Ste 116Tacoma, WA 98409(253) 830-2323 (F) (877) 346-4981www.guildmortgage.net/tacomaMortgages/Specialty Financing Spike: Kurt Wilson

Windermere Real Estate-Bellevue CommonsMatt Harris1416 Main StSumner. WA 98391 (253) 227-3528(425) 450-2600www.mattharris.mywindermere.comReal EstateSpike: Kurt Wilson

WELCOME BACK!McCament & Rogers, LLCJ.J. McCament708 Broadway Suite 150 Tacoma, WA 98402(253) 284-5702 (F) (253) 284-5793 www.mccamentandrogers.com Real EstateSpike: Gary Pedersen

Dave GraffSteve GaritonePat SteffanSusie NelsonRick HjelmSteve ShattuckMichael R. FastCathi MahanGordon NeuLyle FoxSue ZimmermanRebecca JonesDuke YorkGary PattersonRick BrunaughMatt RockDan GarberKent ArolaJoe MaxwellKurt WilsonJim YurinaJosh DunnJoe ZehnderBob DenomyLynne Hill

595.25514.25286.75261.5250.75232.25155.5153.25148.75148.5137125105.591.586.584.2582.7574.56451.54948.754746.538.5 S

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Dave GraffSteve GaritoneDavid LitowitzPat SteffanCarri LitowitzSusie NelsonRick HjelmRandy KruseSteve ShattuckRobert CampWilliam Schuur Jr.Bud CrestDave HendricksonKirk HarrMichael R. FastCathi MahanGordon NeuLyle FoxSue ZimmermanRebecca JonesFred BrownWayne ManganDuke YorkGary PattersonGary Howe

TOP 25 ALL TIME SPIKES595.25514.25325286.75275261.5250.75232.5232.25205.5191173.5171167155.5153.25148.75148.5137125119112.5105.591.588.5

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What is REX? How to get Involved.

Schedule6pm- various locations

FEBRUARY 28AAA Kartak Glass and Closet Corp.

3060 96th St S, Lakewood, 98499Special Start Time: 5pm

MARCH 27Albert Lee Appliances

4124 Tacoma Mall Blvd.

APRIL 24Weirs Appliance

10909 Portland Ave. E, Tacoma

MAY 15REX AWARDS DINNER

Location: Fircrest Golf Club

JUNE 26Keller Supply

3620 S Cedar, Tacomar

JULY 24Annual Crab Feed

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

Gray Lumber (TORH Sponsor)

AUGUST 28Contract Furnishings Mart

3600 E Industry Drive – Fife(lifetime sponsor)

SEPTEMBER 25Crescent Lighting Supply Inc.

(REX Sponsor)3214 20th St E - Fife

OCTOBER 23Milgard Windows

965 54th Ave E - Fife(TORH Sponsor

NOVEMBER 27CR Floors

34323 Pacific Highway SouthFederal Way

March 2012 | www.mbapierce.com - 15

FROM

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Duke York, York Enterprises

REX – What is it? Why should I be involved?When any of us join an organization, one of the

first things we ask ourselves is “What am I going to get out of this?” The Master Builders Association of Pierce County is celebrating 67 years in the community. With Master Builders Association, it is very easy to answer the question in many ways. This is just one of them: The RC is celebrating its 16th year. We have grown from a council of 20 meeting at a restaurant to a council of 122 members meeting at member locations all over Pierce and King County.

The MBA’s Remodelors™ Council has an annual event every year that allows us to show off our work and compete against other remodelers within our region for annual bragging rights. This event, called the Remodeling Excellence Awards, REX provides a credibility platform that we may all have an opportunity to stand on and say, “My project was the best in its class this year”. This year’s REX Awards will be held on May 15 at the Fircrest Golf Club. I asked Stephanie Brooks, this year’s Chair of the REX Awards, what the benefit for her as an associate would be to enter a project in the competition. She said; “Participating in the REX awards is a great opportunity for me as an Interior Designer to showcase a project to others in the association who may not know me and what I do. Also, winning an award shows current and potential clients that the work I’ve done has gained credibility.” Credibility within the industry, trophies to show off to prospective clients and the knowledge that one of your projects is good enough to gain this kind of awareness in the local community is a great way to help grow a solid business. It has become very clear to me through the years, having lost to many excellent remodelers in this region, that when I am good enough and lucky enough to win, it gives me a lot of pride in my company, what we do and how well we do it. I would encourage any remodeling contractor in Pierce County who qualifies to get involved! We would love to see you there! I want to thank AAA KARTAK for a great dinner meeting last month, it was great to see so many new faces and some returning. We had a special invitation out to BIAW members who were attending the state meeting, and I was happy to see a few members take us up on our offer. I hope to see you this month at Albert Lee Appliances on March 27 @ 6 pm. You can RSVP at rcmarch.eventbrite.com.

The MBA’s Remodelors™ Council has an annual event every year that allows us to show off our work and compete against other Remodelers within our region for annual bragging rights.

THANKS FOR RENEWING*

*As of 1/31/12

Members 40 to 44 YearsBunce Rental Inc.Meridian Center Electric

Members 25 to 29 YearsHarr Family HomesHull Floor CompanyJohnson’s Millwork, Inc.Projects West, Inc.

Members 20 to 24 YearsFirst American Title & Escrow Co.

Members 15 to 19 YearsHowe InvestmentsKen Bobko ElectricShope Concrete Products, Inc.TEGCO Fence, Inc.Uniland Investment Inc.

Members 10 to 14 YearsBetter Homes & Gardens Real Estate-Pacific CommonsBob Larson PlumbingCentury Insurance Services, LLC

Coast Rail, Inc.Holroyd Co.LaborWorks Industrial StaffingLarson Glass Co., Inc.Magellan InsulationMcClellan Homes CompanyMcMullen Electric, Inc.Structural Insulated Panel Association

Members 5 to 9 YearsA Cut Above Hardwood Floors, Inc.City GlassExpress Window ServicesG I Beringer Construction Inc.Harley ExteriorsParker Drafting ServiceWells Fargo Home MortgageXena Homes, Inc.

Members 2 to 4 YearsClover Park Technical College-Sustainable Building ScienceCombined Carriers Co dba Machine CarriersLegal Shield dba ReparteP.M. Testing Laboratory Inc.SoundBuilt Northwest-Affiliate Gary RaccaThe Fixture Gallery @ Consolidated Supply Co.Titus-Will Ford Toyota Scion

Members First YearTitus Will Chevrolet at Parkland