2010 may_june

Senator Joe Leibham and the “Jobs Now” Agenda

Builder Profile: Webco Inc.

May/June 2010www.wisbuild.org

Delivered to you as a benefit of membership

Getting Involved in State Government

Their

is yourBusinessBusiness

Wisconsin Badger Builder • May/June 2010 • www.wisbuild.org2

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Wisconsin Badger Builder, (ISSN 004-232) is a bi-monthly publication of the Wisconsin shelter industry. It is the official publication of the Wisconsin Builders Association® (WBA) and is published by WBA, 4868 High Crossing Blvd., Madison, WI 53704. Periodicals postage paid at Madison, WI 53701 and additional mailing offices.

All advertising is subject to acceptance by the Wisconsin Badger Builder editorial review committee. The publication of any advertisement is not to be construed as an endorsement of the product or service offered. The contents of all material available in this

publication are copyrighted by WBA unless otherwise indicated. All rights are reserved by WBA, and content may not be reproduced, disseminated, published or transferred in any form or by any means except with the prior written permission of the Wisconsin Builders Association®.

POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Wisconsin Badger Builder, 4868 High Crossing Blvd., Madison, WI 53704.

SUBSCRIPTIONS: Subscriptions available through membership in the Wisconsin Builders Association®.

May/June 2010 Volume 27 • Issue 3features

Capitol Corner ..................................................................... 6Senator Joe Leibham (R-9th District) discusses the “Jobs Now” Agenda, which he hopes will create a positive economic environment in Wisconsin.

Their Business is Your Business ......................................... 8The business of government is your business as well because what happens in state and local government impacts your business.

Builder Profile ................................................................... 12Tim Weber of Webco Inc.

departmentsPresident’s Perspective ................................................................................ 3At the Table

Executive Viewpoint ..................................................................................... 4Get Involved; It’s Groovy (and Profitable), Baby

Government Affairs ...................................................................................... 5A Successful Business Day in Madison 2010

Local Happenings ......................................................................................... 7Photos and details of WBA local association events around the state.

Member Advantage .................................................................................... 14Nuts and Bolts of Health Care Reform.

News & Events ............................................................................................. 15Mission Statement

A professional trade association, WBA advances the housing industry for members and consumers through government involvement,

education and promotion.

Vision StatementAffordable, innovative and environmentally

conscious homes accessible to all.

Motto“Dedicated to preserving and promoting

the American Dream”

www.wisbuild.org

Wisconsin Badger Builder • May/June 2010 • www.wisbuild.org

Senior Officers 2010President: Jim Kubasta,

Oshkosh (Winnebago)

President Elect: Don Esposito,

Madison (Madison Area)

Treasurer: Gary Roehrig,

New Holstein (Mid-Shores)

Secretary: Craig Rakowski,

Wauwatosa (Metropolitan)

Immediate Past President: Doug

Scott, Janesville (South Central WI)

Associate Vice President: John

Anderson, Appleton (Winnebago)

Associate Advisor to the Senior Officers: Monica Sommerfeldt Lewis,

Chippewa Falls (Chippewa Valley)

Area Vice-Presidents 2010Southeast Area

Mark Benkowski (Metropolitan)

Darryl Spang (Racine–Kenosha)

Northwest Area Clint Doege (Heart of the North)

Monica Sommerfeldt Lewis (Chippewa Valley)

Southwest AreaTony Szak (La Crosse Area)

Steve Treu (La Crosse Area)

Northeast AreaSteve Atkins (Brown Co.)

Scott Browne (Brown Co.)

South AreaBrian McKee (Madison Area)

Bob Renforth (Madison Area)

East Central AreaEd Schmidt (Valley)

Stan Martenson (Valley)

North Area Pam Jewell (Golden Sands)

Mike Richie (Wausau Area)

East Shore AreaDan Schneider (Mid-Shores)

Sean Kelly (Mid-Shores)

State Representative to NAHBRon Derrick (St. Croix Valley)

Area 10 ChairmanWayne Foster (Metropolitan)

At the Table

by Kuba, WBA President

Thank you for giving me the opportunity to serve as the WBA president in 2010. I cannot express

how proud I am to be involved with this group of professional home builders and professional associates.

As all of you know, the housing industry is experiencing trying times. The results have touched all of us in one way or another. I am confident that by working as a group and utilizing the resources that are available to us through our local, state and national associations, we can get through this temporary downturn together. You are a member of all three, and I encourage you to continue to learn about the benefits they each bring to your business.

In concert with the professional and talented staff at all three levels, you and I are the advocates for housing in our local communities, our state and our nation. We have many members who volunteer a tremendous amount of time, getting involved where the decisions are made by serving on state and local boards, coun-cils and committees.

This month features just a handful of those who are at the table where the deci-sions are made at the state level in areas that directly affect the building industry. Whether it is serving on a local chamber of commerce board or running for office, bringing the voice of the builder is essential to affecting positive change to our busi-nesses. I want to personally thank all of those who make the effort to get involved politically, because it does matter.

It is up to the rest of us to support their efforts by answering the calls to action that are sent out by our state Government Affairs team. A quick call or e-mail to support or protest an issue using the talking points that are sent out is a simple and effective way to utilize the power of our numbers. Combining our grass-roots efforts with our voice at the table is

just one of the benefits of our collective power as an association.

It is incumbent upon us to ensure that our children and grandchildren have the opportunity of homeown-ership. Homeownership should not become the province of only the wealthy in our society, but remain accessible to all who choose it. I firmly believe that homeownership is the cornerstone of strong families, strong families are the foundation of a strong society and a strong society is what a strong nation is built upon.

The Wisconsin Home Builders Association® was formed in 1947 by a group of visionary home builders and associates to advocate for housing in Wisconsin. They stated as their objective: “This association exists for the purpose of improving conditions in the home building industry and thereby, the social, political and economic welfare of the citizens of Wisconsin.”

This crisis calls for everyone to redouble their efforts to make our voices heard in this election year. Instead of bemoaning the fact that Wisconsin taxes and the cost of living are too high, we must suggest ways to successfully address these challenges.

President’s

perspective

Wisconsin Badger Builder • May/June 2010 • www.wisbuild.org 3

i want to personally

thank all of those who

make the effort to get

involved politically,

because it does matter.

Continued on page 11

Wisconsin Badger Builder • May/June 2010 • www.wisbuild.org4 Wisconsin Badger Builder • May/June 2010 • www.wisbuild.org

WBA Staff4868 High Crossing Blvd.,

Madison, WI 53704 • (608) 242-5151

Executive Vice PresidentJerry Deschane, CAE, ext. 11

[email protected]

Director of Political & Government AffairsBrad Boycks, ext. 16

[email protected]

General CounselPatrick Stevens, ext. [email protected]

Director of CommunicationsAnnie Rubens, ext. [email protected]

Director of Accounting ServicesKathy Johnsen, ext. [email protected]

Accounting & Political Affairs Assistant

Mark Nelson, ext. [email protected]

Event CoordinatorKimberly Fay, ext. 10

[email protected]

WBA FoundationDevelopment DirectorMegan Taylor, ext. [email protected]

WBA Insurance ServicesVice President

Karl Johnson, ext. [email protected]

Published by

Publisher ........................... Kevin Naughton

Supervising Editor ........... Jennifer McDermitt

Graphic Designer ..................... Jason Gabel

Advertising Sales .......................Jeff Pinwar(800) 935-1592, ext. 118 • [email protected]

Marsha Suwienski(800) 935-1592, ext. 106 • [email protected]

Publication Sales Manager ....... Brenda Poe(800) 935-1592, ext. 115 • [email protected]

Get Involved; It’s Groovy (and

Profitable), Baby

by Jerry Deschane, CAE, WBA Executive Vice President

This is a strange organization. I’m staring at a photograph of your WBA senior officers. They’re

wearing tie-dyed shirts, blue-jeans, John Lennon sunglasses and, as for their hair … well let’s just say some of them haven’t had that much fur on their heads for a very long time. The photo was taken at February’s “Builderstock” Convention, and it is clear that a good time was being had by all.

One week later, the wigs, t-shirts and even the love bus were all stowed away. Kuba and the Gang put on suits and ties for the annual Business Day in Madison. Over 120 WBA members joined busi-nesspeople from other organizations for a grassroots charge on the state Capitol. Our members knocked on dozens of legislative doors, making the case against an “imperial” DNR and other anti-housing initiatives. By the end of the day, WBA helped defeat the DNR bill. Once again, a good time was had by all (on our side, at least).

Convention and Business Day are two of WBA’s signature events. They are great opportunities for you to get involved in your industry and for you to pick up ideas that can help you be more successful. If you can’t make the WBA Convention or Business Day, how about NAHB’s Legislative Conference, coming up in Washington on April 21? Or, maybe the WBA Board Day on April 29? President’s Golf outing on July 21? Local Home Show? If you’re still looking for that silver-bullet idea for your business, maybe you should stop looking around your office and start looking at the next builders’ association event.

I think the word “involvement” has gotten a bad rap. Too often, volunteers think of involvement as a one-way street — we want you to get involved so that we can get some free labor for a committee, home show or board. In reality, involvement is critical to the success of your business. The

Executive

viewpoint

more involved you are, the more success you will find.

One of my mentors is Bill Binn, owner of Wyntree Construction in Lake Geneva. Several years ago, Bill told me that he had tracked his expenses to attend a particular association event for several years. He also tracked the ideas he got while attending. For each year that Bill kept track, the bottom line value of the new idea exceeded the cost of attending. Involvement wasn’t something that Bill did for the warm fuzzy feeling (although Bill likes warm fuzzies with the best of them) — involvement made sense for his business. Getting involved meant making more money.

There are as many ways to get involved as there are members of the WBA (6,500 and counting). You could serve as a local, state or national director, or as a local, state, or national committee member and attend local monthly membership meetings, state quarterly meetings, or three-times-yearly national meetings. For a current list, go to www.wisbuild.org and click around a bit on the Calendar of Events. Then check out your local association’s Web site and NAHB.org.

In addition to association involve-ment, we regularly get asked to suggest businesspeople to serve on government boards. We know our members are as savvy as they come, so it is easy to come up with suggestions of true industry leaders. Now you may ask “why would

in reality, involvement

is critical to the success

of your business.


Wisconsin Badger Builder • May/June 2010 • www.wisbuild.org Wisconsin Badger Builder • May/June 2010 • www.wisbuild.org 5

A Successful Business Day in Madison 2010

Government

AffAirsby Brad Boycks, Director of Government & Political Affairs

On Tuesday, over 120 WBA members from across the state traveled to Madison to be part of WBA’s annual lobby day: Business Day in Madison 2010. The timing

of this year’s event was perfect as both houses of the legislature were in session that day and the Assembly was voting on the veto override of the DNR Secretary Bill (AB 138).

We began the day with an issue briefing so members were educated on the issues we wanted them to talk about with their legislators. The issues we highlighted this year included:

• Housing = Good Paying Wisconsin Jobs • Oppose the appointment of the DNR secretary by the DNR

Board and not the governor• Oppose the Global Warming Initiatives as currently drafted• Support for updates to Wisconsin’s platting process• Support the elimination or delay of the farmland conver-

sion penalty Originally, we had planned to have members lobby in favor

of a bill requiring the installation of carbon monoxide detec-tors in one- and two-family homes, but that moved quicker than expected in January, passing both houses in advance of Business Day 2010.

Members were lobbying on some very big issues including global warming and the override of the DNR Secretary Bill. One thing we also asked members to talk about was the results of the recently released study done by Dr. Elliot Eisenberg of the National Association of Home Builders. Dr. Eisenberg’s study shows that for every 1,000 homes built in Wisconsin, three full-time jobs are created and those homes pay for themselves in local, state and federal taxes in just one year. WBA members and staff need to continue to tout the results of this study to encourage elected offi-cials at levels of government to work for good public policy matters to encourage housing in their area.

As we mentioned earlier, those attending Business Day in Madison 2010 had one very timely thing to talk to members of the state Assembly about: the override vote of the DNR Secretary Bill (AB 138) that was taking place that same day. WBA GA staff had been working this issue very hard since the bill was introduced last year, and WBA members began lobbying against this proposed change at Business Day 2009.

As you know, this bill was first passed by the Assembly, changed in the Senate and passed again as amended by the Senate. Governor Doyle vetoed this bill in November, and we had expected a veto override attempt even though a number of Assembly members needed to change their vote from the previ-ous time they took up the issue.

Your efforts lobbying members of the state Assembly paid off when the attempt to override the governor’s veto of the DNR Secretary Bill (AB 138) was unsuccessful. Sixty-four votes were needed to override, but only 58 members voted in favor of the override.

Your grassroots efforts made this vote possible — congratulations!Thank you again to all those who attended Business Day

in Madison 2010 and those of you who have been so active lobbying your legislators via e-mail and phone during this busy legislative session. X

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Members were lobbying on some very big issues including

global warming and the override of the Dnr secretary Bill.


by Senator Joe Leibham (R-9th District)

Feb. 23 was an exciting day at the Wisconsin state Capitol. Hundreds of citizens assembled to educate and inform the legislature on the important role that businesses play

in providing jobs and opportunity for the citizens of our state. Members of the Wisconsin Builders Association® played a prominent role in advancing this message. The WBA legislative focus was clearly articulated: a strong housing market equals good-paying Wisconsin jobs!

Specifically, it was important for legislators to learn about the impact that the housing industry has on jobs in our state. According to the WBA, the estimated one-year metro area impact of building 1,000 single-family homes is 3,255 jobs. Over three full-time jobs can be tied to each house built in our state. Appropriately, the builders assembled encouraged the legislature to support a legislative agenda that seeks to improve

Jobs Now AgendaCapitol

corner the overall economic condition of our state so that our citizens can be employed, earn good incomes and consume — perhaps even investing in a new home or remodeling project.

Without a doubt, our state is suffering through some challeng-ing economic times. Over the last year, our statewide unemploy-ment rate has spiked from 5.8 percent to an unacceptable 8.3 percent. This troubling unemployment rate is hitting all parts of our state. For example, Rusk County in Wisconsin’s Northwoods is struggling with 11.8 pecent unemployment, while the manu-facturing center of Rock County sits at a staggering 11 percent.

To put it into even more startling terms, over 163,000 jobs were lost in Wisconsin in 2009. This lack of jobs has hit our state economy hard, including a decline in new home start-ups and remodeling projects and, as a result, the building industry has shed tens of thousands of jobs over the past couple of years.

My Republican colleagues and I have fought and voted against many job-killing policies, and we will continue our effort to change the mindset and direction of our state government. We even have a specific plan to help make that happen.

We believe that our efforts should be focused on creating a positive economic environment in which Wisconsin busi-nesses small and large can create jobs so that our citizens can be employed, earn a good income, support their family and be less reliant on government taxpayer subsidies.

Over the past year, Republicans have sat down with small and large business owners and their employees across the state to listen to their ideas on what we could do to help them grow in Wisconsin. We’ve incorporated these ideas into our JOBS NOW Agenda, and we’re working to advance these priorities in the legislature.

Our plan, which can be viewed at www.wisconsinjobsnow.info, would start by rolling back the onerous new taxes, fees and government regulations that have been passed into law since the beginning of 2009. From there, we would:

• Reduce taxes on income• Roll back taxes on capital gains• Strengthen property tax controls• Freeze any new state government regulations• Reduce the tax burden on business expansions and retooling• End the practice of government as an obstacle to success,

instead moving it aside to let the private sector work on its own

These are just a few of the common-sense, economically sound proposals for which we are advocating action. These measures would provide small and large private sector employers with the tools they need to revive our economy and get people back to work. In the long run, a strong economy and growing job base will not only help working families to make ends meet, it will also make it easier for our state to manage other important issues like health care, education and our environment.


Wisconsin Badger Builder • May/June 2010 • www.wisbuild.org

Local HappeningsSt. Croix Valley HBAMembers that attended all GMM in 2009: Casey Weiss, Nick Gorres, Jon Coty, Clifford Hentz, Jim Lobin and Tom Schommer (not pictured).

South Central WI BAMike Kohlbauer (Country Door Systems) visits with a prospective customer at the 37th annual SCWBA Home Show.


Lakeland BA February General Membership Meeting was well attended.

Mid-Wisconsin HBAMary Ann Schneiter (EO), President Les Steffen (Steffen Log Homes) and Sec-Treasurer Cindy Ennis (Shields Heating & Air Conditioning) stand by barrels of food donated for Home Show admission discount. Madison Area BA

MABA President Abe Degnan (Degnan Design Builders Inc.) gets prepared for hands-on training at one of the Lead-Safe Renovator Training classes.

Heart of the North BAFirst annual Snowmobiling/Ice Fishing Day, Feb. 20, 2010, on Pokegama Lake, Chetek.


by Jennifer McDermitt

Not long ago, people were talk-ing endlessly about the “hous-ing bubble” and whether or

not it would burst. Economically, times have changed dramatically

since that time, but while talk of that “bubble” has subsided, there’s another

one that builders need to avoid: the idea of operating a business in a bubble. The

business of government is your business as well because what happens in state and local

government impacts your business whether you like the rule, law, decision or not. Ask any builder or associate why they do not

take a more active role in state government, and most will say, “I don’t have time,” or “I’m just trying to keep

my business afloat right now.” However, “not everyone at the legislative table has the same priorities that you do, so if you don’t have a seat, you don’t have a voice, and the impact of that can be devastating to your business,” said WBA executive vice president Jerry Deschane. “Fortunately, we have a number of very involved members who sit on a variety of critical state boards and councils.”

Members who take leadership roles in state government recognize that no one

can operate a business in a bubble.

Their

is yourBusiness

Businessphotos by Annie Rubens


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CWG agents throughout Wisconsin can offer WBA members industry specific coverage.

Independent agents not representing CWG can access this program through Reynolds & Reynolds.

Contact your local Continental Western Agent or Reynolds & Reynolds at (800) 767-1724.

Endorsed by:®

The Path to InvolvementMonica Sommerfeldt Lewis of Archer Lion Inc. joined the

Means of Egress and Accessibility Code Advisory Council because it addressed the requirements for many of the projects her company was bidding in the state. The Council deals with egress and accessibility for commercial and multi-family build-ings. Issues include door way widths, rail heights, bathroom layout and other items that allow for people of any ability to use the building.

Lewis says getting involved has made her a better resource for her customers. “I was not aware how much the firefighters got involved in the code. I was also impressed by the knowledge and involvement of the other members. It encourages you to be at the top of your game,” she said.

It is not news that government affects our personal and busi-ness lives. Our elected and appointed officials establish how we do business, what we pay in taxes, how fast we can drive our vehicles, how our dwellings are built, and even what we can put

in our own bodies. For this reason, members must have a seat at the table in order to help shape the governmental landscape as it effects and impacts members and the industry as a whole.

“Sometimes, you need to think cost and availability of product or service,” said Lewis. “Some things sound like a good idea or a simple suggestion until you look at the feasibility.”

Government Affairs and Your BusinessPlato once said, “The punishment wise men suffer from

indifference to public affairs is to be ruled by unwise men.” Advocacy is a broad programmatic “tool” used by citizens to influence public policy at all levels of government. Advocacy is all encompassing and may incorporate political action, legisla-tive, regulatory, grassroots, legal, and media strategies — all for positive change in government.

Members of the Wisconsin Builders Association® are impor-tant advocates for the industry and have had a presence on


Business

Wisconsin Badger Builder • May/June 2010 • www.wisbuild.orgWisconsin Badger Builder • May/June 2010 • www.wisbuild.org10

multiple boards and councils. A small sampling includes: Uniform Dwelling Code Council, Commercial Buildings Fire Protection Systems Council, Contractor Certification Advisory Code Council, Multifamily Dwelling Code Council and the Gas Systems Code Council. From these titles alone it is easy to see the importance of having the voice of builder and associate members. These members, and both the state and local govern-ment affairs staff, actively engage in both legislative and regula-tory governmental action. Legislative affairs refer to matters that come before legislative bodies, such as a city council, state legislature, or the U.S. Congress.

Regulatory affairs refer to issues that go before “rulemaking” bodies, such as the Office of Housing and Urban Development

(HUD), a city building department, or perhaps a state environ-mental agency. To put it simply, legislative bodies make laws and policy, and regulatory bodies carry out that law or policy, often creating the rules of enforcement associated with the law/policy. Active involvement in both of these disciplines is crucial to an affective advocacy program.

Running parallel to legislative action is public policy formula-tion, be it legislative or regulatory. As advocates for the home building industry, members must be prepared to identify oppor-tunities and engage in debate as policies are being contemplated by elected and appointed public officials at all levels.

“It is far easier to deal with legislation when you get involved early on,” said Brad Boycks, WBA director of Political and Government Affairs. “Any seasoned lobbyist will tell you that the worst thing an advocate can do is wait until the last minute to get involved in potential legislation. As the old saying goes, ‘you’re either at the table, or you’re on the menu.’”

Not All Priorities are Created EqualMary Schroeder of Miller Homes Inc. jokes that she was

coerced into joining the Uniform Dwelling Code Council after asking, “Where do codes come from?” Once she joined, however, she learned some important lessons about other peoples’ priorities.

“It is certainly eye opening to see the political process in action,” said Schroeder. “More often than not, someone creates a product that they want to find a way to sell, so they try to mandate it through codes. Unfortunately, the person who ends up paying the highest price is the customer.”

Schroeder says her presence on the board offers a “dollar-sign perspective” from a builder’s point of view. “You have to make them realize that some of these codes are going to impact the price of the home at a time when the consumer doesn’t need added costs — especially if they are unnecessary costs,” she said.

Schroeder urges other members to get involved in the Code Council, because it’s much easier to combat unnecessary codes at the forefront versus after they have been enacted. She said, “Codes inevitably drive cost, and not everyone at the table is thinking about, or caring about, the bottom line.”

Involvement in the early stages of policy making is not only smart in terms of positioning your policy stance, but it’s also a great way to network and create relationships. You can always agree to disagree with others, but it’s extremely important to keep the lines of communication open — even, and especially, with your “enemies.”

Lewis agrees, “Being part of the process is easier than fighting the finished product,” said Lewis. “It is a great way to see some of the procedures and people who make the rules with which we have to work. It also opens your eyes to other ‘players.’” X

outsiDe the BuBBleContinued from page 9

Thank you to these members for their current and former involvement in these state committees and councils:

• LeonChurch,ForestryCouncil&WIEnergyConservation Corporation

• BruceJohnson,Alteration&ChangeofUseAdvisoryCouncil

• StanRamaker,Builders&Contractors,CommercialBuilding Code Council

• BrandonBartow,CommercialBuildingsFireProtection Systems Council

• CraigRakowski,ContractorCertificationAdvisoryCode Council

• CharlesJohansen,ElectricalCodeAdvisoryCouncil• BruceJohnson,GasSystemsCodeCouncil• MonicaSommerfeldtLewis,MeansofEgressand

Accessibility Code Advisory Council• BethGonnering,BuildingContractors/Developers,

Multifamily Dwelling Code Council• StevenCrosby,POWTSAdvisoryCodeCouncil• SteveOlson,WisconsinPrecastConcreteAssociation

&POWTSTechnicalAdvisoryCommittee• MarySchroeder,UniformDwellingCodeCouncil• JohnVandeCastle,UniformDwellingCodeCouncil• DevinRains,UniformDwellingCodeInspection

Workgroup• ToddStair,WisconsinFundAdvisoryCodeCouncil• SteveOlson,WisconsinFundAdvisoryCodeCouncil• DaveJones,WisconsinFundAdvisoryCodeCouncil

& Plumbers Council• DaveOsborn,IBCEnergyConservationCouncil

Capitol Corner is a regular feature for Badger Builder. In this space, a Wisconsin legislator will provide perspective on an issue. Each guest columnist is offered the opportunity to select their primary issue of concern and present their views independent from any guidelines imposed by the Wisconsin Builders Association®. The views expressed by the columnist are solely their opinion and do not necessarily reflect the views of the WBA, NAHB, the locals, or the members. The Badger Builder editorial department welcomes reader feedback to the issues featured in this section in the spirit of promoting continued discussion on the important issues affecting our daily lives. To submit comments, please send them to Badger Builder Editor Annie Rubens, [email protected]. Only comments in writing will be considered for reprint.

The past year has been difficult. Wisconsin families are struggling and are understandably frustrated. Our government at both the state and federal levels is disconnected from our priorities. As we move forward, our job in the legislature should be — and must be — to focus on initiatives that will help to create an environment condu-cive to securing good job opportunities for our fellow citizens.

Now let’s get to work! X

cApitol cornerContinued from page 6


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I want to sit on the State Uniform Dwelling Code Committee?” Well, what’s it worth to you to know about changes in building regulations a year before your competitors? Just a thought.

As we emerge from what economists call “The Great Recession,” many of us are searching for ways to diversify our company, to find new sources of financing, or just a tip to help pay the bills one more month. Whatever you’re looking for, if it has to do with building, you’ve come to the right place. Your association membership is your ticket to a world of new ideas that will improve your bottom line. The password that will get you in the door is “involvement.”

Groovy, Baby. X

If we don’t, perhaps no one will, and our industry may bear the brunt of even greater resistance.

To that end, I urge all of our local presidents, executive officers, and rank and file members to dedicate themselves this year to becoming more involved with your local asso-ciation and the WBA. I know from experience the greatest benefits to being involved come right back to you and your own business, so don’t wait!

Collectively, we have the talent and the brain power to come up with pro-active and effective solutions, and we must. Every voice matters, and we need everyone — builders and associates alike — to work together “United as One” this coming year. X

presiDent’s perspectiveContinued from page 3

executive viewpointContinued from page 4


BuIlder profile

Webco Inc.General ContractorsDo-it-All Attitude sets tim and Marcy weber Apart from the competition

by Stacey Tetloff

Tim Weber learned the basics of the construction trade from his father, who owned several small businesses and believed in taking care of everything himself. As a result,

Weber learned how to do a variety of construction-related tasks, and his experiences working with his dad while growing up eventually led him into a career in construction.

Weber’s career in construction started in 1978 when he joined J.P. Cullen and Sons as a carpenter apprentice. Eventually, he worked his way up to superintendent, learning the building industry inside and out.

Diversifying the BusinessWeber decided to leave that company in 1988 and started a

business of his own with his wife, Marcy. Marcy’s banking and business background is diverse and contributed a variety of skills and knowledge to Webco Inc. General Contractors. Marcy has a master’s degree in business, is a certified financial planner and real estate broker, and also holds an insurance license.

In the beginning, Webco focused on small commercial projects and build-outs, but quickly grew to include housing and land development. The Webers began to diversify their interests by building the Newport Plaza Building that houses their offices and other businesses they own, including Webco Properties, Pine Ridge Development Corp. and Newport Plaza Laundry, along with other retail-based businesses.

In 1993, Webco took on its first development project, with Pine Ridge Estates. In 1995, Webco added Fox Ridge Estates to its portfolio. Then, the Webers long-term goals of opening a senior living community were realized when the develop-ment of Huntington Place began in 1999. The 60-plus acre Huntington Place Community now includes assisted living, advanced care, memory care, respite care, independent apart-ment living and condominiums.

Expanding with ExperienceFrom an initial focus on new home construction and

development, the Webers have expanded their company to include remodeling and commercial projects as well. According to Weber, experience is the key to being able to diversify your business.

This experience includes in-house design capabilities coupled with an experienced staff. Additionally, experienced subcon-tractors aid Webco in offering a variety of quality services to its customers. The company is able to offer new construction

and remodeling for either commercial or residential projects. Webco’s do-it-all functionality is the foundation for providing customers with great service and a top-quality product.

Getting InvolvedThe Webers both dedicate themselves to a variety of organi-

zations, including the builders associations. Weber served as president of the South Central Wisconsin Builders Association (SCWBA) and also currently serves on the SCWBA education committee and the SCWBA board of directors. He is also a state director representing SCWBA in the WBA and is on the Forward Janesville board of directors.

Weber is also a past winner of SCWBA’s Builder of the Year award and has won numerous awards in the SCWBA Parade of Homes. He has chaired the annual Parade of Homes in Janesville as well. He was also instrumental in the creation of the Student House Build program with area high schools, and oversaw this project in 2008 as the general contractor.

Weber’s community involvement is not limited to the building industry, however. He has also served on the city of Janesville’s Total Quality Management committee and is a past member of the Morning Rotary Club and the Janesville Country Club Building Committee.

St. Mary’s Church is another benefactor of Weber’s gener-ous community spirit. He has served on the building expansion committee of the church and is an active participant, along with his wife Marcy, in not only the church, but also St. Mary’s Catholic School.

The Webers have chaired two large fundraising events for St. Mary’s school and the parish. Plus, for more than 17 years, Weber had served as a coach for the school’s basketball program and Marcy was a cheerleading coach for five years.

Marcy has also dedicated herself to community involvement. She has worked on the Garden Walk committee, is past chair-person for the United Way employee campaign for her former employer, is a previous member of the National Association of Bank Women, and is a past member of the Junior Women’s Club and the American Heart Association. In 2009, she co-chaired the Rotary Gardens Dinner Dance, which raised the highest amount ever for Rotary Gardens in Janesville. She is currently a member of the Noon Rotary club.

Like her husband, Marcy is also an active participant in build-ing industry organizations. She is a member of SCWBA and the WBA, as well as the Rock-Green Realtors. X


Business Quick Facts• YearsinBusiness:22• LocalAssociation: South Central Wisconsin Builders Association• AssociationInvolvement:Past president of SCWBA, SCWBA Education Committee,

SCWBA Board of Directors, State Director, Forward Janesville Board of Directors• Awards: SCWBA Builder of the Year, Numerous Parade of Homes awards, including

People’s Choice, Best House over 2000 Sq. Ft., Best Interior Design, Best Exterior Design, Best Floor Plan, Best Kitchen Design, Best Bath Design and Best Landscaping

Would you like to be in the Builder Profile? Contact Jeff Pinwar at (800) 935-1592, ext. 118 or e-mail at

[email protected].


Nuts and Bolts of Health Care reformMember

ADvAntAgeby Karl Johnson, Vice President, WBA Insurance Services

Health Care Reform is now Health Care Law and does anyone really know what it all means? WBA Insurance Services and our partner, Diversified

Insurance Services, would like to shed some light on the Senate bill that was passed on Sunday, March 21, 2010. Although some provi-sions of the bill will take effect immediately, most of the changes are set to take effect begin-ning in 2014. Below are some of the important provisions of the law that will affect your busi-nesses and families in 2010 and 2011. For more information on the new health care laws, watch for the Health Care Update newsletter provided by WBA Insurance Services, powered by Diversified. This newsletter will hit your e-mail in May 2010 and will be posted on our Web site; www.wbainsurance.org.

2010• Business tax credits: Businesses with no

more than 25 employees and average annual ages of $40,000 would get tax credits to help provide insurance to employees. The credit would be up to 35 percent in 2010 of the employer’s contribution if the employer pays 50 percent of the total premium cost. Effective 2010, with the tax credit increasing to up to 50 percent in 2014

• Temporary reinsurance program: A $5 billion program would be created for employers to provide coverage for retirees over the age of 55 who are not eligible for Medicare. Effective June 2010 (expires Jan. 1, 2014).

• Temporary high-risk insurance pool: A $5 billion pool would be created to provide health to individuals with pre-existing medical conditions who have been uninsured for at least six months. Effective June 2010 (expires Jan. 1, 2014)

• Pre-existing conditions: Insurers would be barred from denying coverage to children who have pre-existing medical conditions.

• Adult dependent children: Insurance companies would have to provide coverage for dependent children up to the age of 26.

• Insurance coverage limits: Insurance plans would be prohib-ited from placing lifetime limits on how much they pay out to individual policyholders and from rescinding coverage except in cases of fraud.

• Preventive services: Health insurance plans would be required to cover preventive services such as immunizations for children and cancer screenings for women.

• Medicare drug rebates: Medicare patients who face a gap in prescription drug coverage would receive a one-year, $250 rebate to help pay for medication.

Effective immediately.

• Consumer Information: Requires the Secretary of DHHS to develop information portal options for state residents to obtain uniform information on sources of affordable coverage, including an Internet site. Information must be provided on private health coverage options, Medicaid, CHIP, the new high-risk pool cover-age and existing state high-risk pool options.

2011• Tax changes on health care savings accounts: The federal tax on individuals who spend money from health-care savings accounts on ineligible medical expenses would double to 20 percent. Effective Jan. 1, 2011.

• Community health centers: Funding would increase by $11 billion for community health centers that provide medical care to patients who can’t afford it. Effective Oct. 1, 2011.

• Medicare “doughnut hole”: Drug companies would provide a 50-percent discount on brand name prescrip-tion drugs for seniors who face a gap in drug coverage. Effective Jan. 1, 2011.

• Primary care: Primary care doctors and general surgeons practicing in areas that lack primary care doctors would receive a 10-percent bonus payment under Medicare. Effective Jan. 1, 2011 through 2015.

• New annual fees on drug makers: A total annual fee of $2.5 billion would be imposed on pharmaceutical manufacturers. Effective Jan. 1, 2011.

• Insurance rebates: Creates a minimum loss ratio require-ment that applies to all fully insured plans. Health insurance companies would be required to provide rebates to enrollees if they spend less than 85 percent for large group plans and 80 percent for individual and small group plans (100 and below) of their premium dollars on health care as opposed to administrative costs. Effective Jan. 1, 2011.

• W-2 Reporting: Requires employers to disclose the value of the benefit provided by the employer for each employee’s health insurance coverage on the employee’s annual Form W-2.

• Standardizing the Definition of Qualified Medical Expenses: Conforms the definition of qualified medical expenses for Health Savings Accounts (HSAs), Flexible Spending Accounts ( FSAs), and Health Reimbursement Arrangements (HRAs) to the definition used for the item-ized deduction. An exception to this rule is included so that amounts paid for over-the-counter medicine with a prescrip-tion still qualify as medical expenses. X

A total annual

fee of $2.5 billion

would be imposed

on pharmaceutical

manufacturers.

effective

Jan. 1, 2011.


LocAL ASSocIAtIoN PArAde of HomeS/Home SHoWS GoLf outING/BBW otHer eveNtS educAtIoN

Brown County Sept 18-19 & 23-26, 2010 Showcase of Homes July 14, 2010 The Woods Golf Links June 9, 2010 Family night at the Zoo ABCs at the HBA 3rd Tues of month. Continuing Ed

offered monthly at BCHBA

Central Wisconsin Continuing Ed offered during some GMM’s

Chippewa Valley June 12-20, 2010 Parade of Homes See calendar at www.cvhomebuilders.com

Door County May 7-8, & 14-16, 2010 Showcase of Homes

Sept. 9, 2010 Golf Outing and PAC Auction

Dec. 9, 2010 Installation & Holiday Party

HBA of Fond du Lac & Dodge Counties April 16-25, 2010 Parade of Homes June 28, 2010 Golf Outing May 22, 2010 Clay Shoot Monthly

Golden Sands April 20, 2010 BBW

Headwaters Continuing Ed offered during some GMM’s see www.headwatersbuilders.com

Heart of the North Sept. 18-19 & 25-26, 2010 Parade of Homes

Nov. 13, 2010 Installation & Holiday Banquet Continuing Ed offered during some GMM’s

La Crosse Area

Lakeland July 31-Aug 1, & 7-8, 2010 Parade of Homes June 3, 2010 Golf Outing See calendar at www.lakelandba.com

Madison Area June 12-27, 2010 Parade of Homes July 13, 2010 Lake Windsor Golf Club See calendar at www.maba.org

Manitowoc CountyJune 24-27, 2010 Parade of Homes * April 18-18, 2010 Home Show Manitowoc Co. Ice Center

MetropolitanApril 18-May 3, 2010 Spring Tour of Homes & Condos * Aug 21-Sept. 12, 2010 Parade of Homes

June 14, 2010 Ironwood Golf Course, Sussex

Commerce Approved 12-Hour Course DVD available. $130 for HBA members, $225 for non-members at www.MBAonline.org.

Mid-Shores Oct. 1-3, 2010 Parade of Homes Dec. 3, 2010 BBW Live Auction

May 7 & 8, 2010 Trash or Treasure? Scholarship Rummage Sale * May 11, 2010 Cookout & Casino Night * Dec. 3, 2010 Installation & Holiday Party

Mid-Wisconsin May 19, 2010 Saddle Ridge Golf Course, Portage

Northland Area

Networking Nights First Tuesday of the month Contact NABA office for location 5:30 pm Social Hour 6:30 pm Dinner with guest speaker to follow

Racine-Kenosha Sept. 11,12,15,18 & 19, 2010 Parade of Homes June 10, 2010 Golf Outing Dec. 2, 2010 Installation, Sept. Parade of

Playhouses, Monthly Member Mingles Monthly

Sheboygan CountySept. 10-12 & Sept. 17-19, 2010 Parade of Homes • March 18-20, 2011 Home Expo

June 16, 2010 Golf Outing Home Expo: March 18-12, 2011 Monthly

South Central Wisconsin

South Western Wisconsin Sept. 11-12 & 15-19, 2010 Parade of Homes

June 18, 2010 Golf Outing, Oct. 26, 2010 Silent Auction May 15, 2010 Contractor Surplus Sale go to www.scwbaonline.com

St. Croix ValleySeptember 11-12, 18-19, 25-26 & October 2-3, 2010 Fall Tour of Homes

July 19, 2010 New Richmond Golf Course, April 27, 2010 Silent Auction

June 10, 2010 “What’s in it For Me?” Networking Night * June 22, 2010 Fishing Tournament * Dec. 14, 2010 Holiday Banquet

Education classes posted on www.scvhba.com

ValleyAug. 14-22, 2010 Parade of Homes * April 15-18, 2010 Home Show

July 15, 2010 Golf Outing June 18, 2010 Fishing Outing * July 29, 2010 Motorcycle Ride Various -- visit www.vhba.com for schedule

Wausau Area June 1-6, 2010 Parade of Homes

Winnebago April 16-18 & 22-25, 2010 Parade of Homes June 8, 2010 Lake Breeze Golf Club See calendar at www.whba.net

Wolf River Aug. 10, 2010 Golden Sands Golf Course Oct. 12, 2010 Installation See www.wolfriverbuilders.com

rev.3/4/10

2010 may_june

Documents

business of government

wisconsin shelter industry

local government

successful business

official publication

government involvement

high crossing

local happenings