MBA Pierce welcomed Deanna

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1 April 2014 Volume 22 Number 4 M A S T E R B U I L D E R S A S S O C I A T I O N O F P I E R C E C O U N T Y MARCH MEETING TEACHES HOW TO IMPROVE SALES THROUGH CUSTOMER LOYALTY AWARD WINNING BUILDERS IN SCHOOLS PROGRAM FINDS HOME AT MT. TAHOMA HIGH SCHOOL The Master Builders Association of Pierce County s (MBA Pierce) award winning Builders in Schools program found a new home this year at Mt. Tahoma High School. The program gives students in the advanced woodshop class hands on experience with local business professionals and focuses on what type of education is needed to succeed in future careers in the building industry. It s great for students to hear now what potential careers are out there, Wood Technology Instructor Ricky Delpino said. Seeing some of the presenters projects have motivated the student s to get creative with their own. MBA Pierce welcomed Deanna Turner, founder of Advent Training & Speaking, to the March General Membership Meeting to talk about Boundless Service to increase customer loyalty. Members joined us for an opportunity to learn about using customer-focused language, how to say no and keep your relationships intact, how to reduce mistakes and misunderstandings and finally, how to build commitment among staff to increase sales and service quality. MBA Pierce developed the program Builders in Schools with the idea of creating learning sessions that are fun and interactive to allow students the opportunity to grasp the large concept of home building. Many of the participants programs relate to the students math, English and science lessons in school. This year s speakers are: Architecture - Darren Dickerson, Coyote Design Architecture & Planning Restoration - Ernie Dittmann, ServiceMaster of Tacoma Salvaging - Karen Carston, Earthwise Salvage, Inc. Finding a Niche in the Industry - Duncan Susag, Sound Concrete Countertops Real Estate - Joe Maxwell, Better Homes & Garden Real Estate Building, Remodeling & Interior Design - Laureen Skrivan, & Cliff Kendall, Wren & Willow, Inc. Just prior to the meeting, members had the opportunity to talk with Platinum Sponsor Sterling Bank and learn about their new special Member Only benefit, Supporting Sponsor Lakewood Ford s Bill Tucker, and new Member Benefit shopmbapierce.com s Jill Ginn Building Foundations Auction pg. 3 / MBA Pierce Working On Impvoring Services for You pg. 5 / Overcoming the word No in Recruiting pg. 11

2 MBA PIERCE 2014 CALENDAR General Events See additional time and location details April 17 Housing Forum Location: Marriot Courtyard Downtown April 25 Walk A Mile in Her Shoes Location: Washington State History Museum April 26 RTSS Rebuilding Day Location: scattered sites May 20 General Membership Meeting REX Awards Dinner Marriott Courtyard Downtown Allenmore Events Center 2013 S Cedar, Tacoma July 29 MBA Annual Crab Feed hosted by the Remodelors Council Design Professionals Council 5:30 p.m. - 2nd Thursday May 8 DPC Roundtable MBA Office 1120 Pacific Ave, Tacoma June 12 Rain Gardens with City of Tacoma 3510 South Mullen Street, Tacoma July 10 Sound Concrete Countertops August 14 DPC Potluck Picnic Host By Blue Dolfin Interiors September 11 TBD Remodelors Council 6 p.m. - 4th Tuesday April 22 Hyland Cebinetworks & Contour Countertops Location: Star Center 3873 S. 66th St., Tacoma June 24 Earthwise Salvage 628 E 60th St, Tacoma August 26 Contract Furnishings Mart 3600 E Industry Drive Fife September 23 Crescent Lighting Supply th St E Fife (REX Sponsor) October 28 Milgard Windows & Doors th Ave E - Fife Carrie Cooke: Window + Door Specialist X 48 carrie@graylumber.com A Century of Performance + Integrity 2 - MBA DIMENSIONS World Class Dealer Log onto for latest calendar updates

3 From the President Laureen Skrivan, Wren & Willow, Inc BUILDING FOUNDATIONS AUCTION The MBA Pierce Building Foundations Annual Auction will be held this year on the evening of Friday, May 16 at the Courtyard Marriott Downtown. We hope we can count on you for your support this year! We are currently seeking event sponsors, item donors and table hosts. Not only does this auction benefit the Association and RTSS veteran services, but it can also help you. A donation to the Building Foundations auction is a wonderful opportunity to showcase and promote your company it among our membership and to the general public. In addition, your company s generosity will be recognized, as donor names are listed in the auction catalog, and later the MBA Pierce Dimensions newsletter. Thank you for your consideration. There is a blank donation procurement form with this newsletter. Please complete for your 2014 auction donation, and return to the MBA Pierce office at your earliest convenience. For more information and to sponsor the event, please contact Kawehi Marshall at ext A reservation forms for tables of ten is also included. We appreciate your support, and hope to see you at the auction! Doors will open at 5:30 pm - live music, drinks, dinner and a good time will be offered along with a great evening with friends for a good cause. This year s auction will benefit veteran services provided by Rebuilding Together South Sound (RTSS.) RTSS was established in 2001 and is part of the national Rebuilding Together organization. It is a local charitable group that repairs homes at no cost to low-income homeowners, particularly those who are elderly, disabled or families with children. In addition, RTSS assists veterans in converting and remodeling their homes to help them stay in their homes and live productive lives, including ramps and other disability construction updates. SERVICE YOU CAN RELY ON SINCE 1930 Cabinets Countertops Appliances Hardware The auction will also provide financial support for the Association s operations and in accomplishing its mission: to promote affordable housing for all economic segments of society. MBA Pierce will use the proceeds to support our ever-expanding membership services as well. The goal this year is to raise over $40,000, and we are relying on your help to reach this goal. When an MBA Pierce Auction Committee member calls on you to request a donation or sponsorship from your company, please show your support and make a donation or sponsor the event. There are sponsorship opportunities at the $750, $1,000, $1500, and $3000 levels. FIFE 3500-A 20th St. E EVERETT Airport Road, Ste TUKWILA 6750 S 180th St For directions and hours visit parrcabinet.com April

4 GRIP Group Retrospective Insurance Program Enrollment Deadline to Get a GRIP in 2014/2015 is Here! The Group Retrospective Insurance Program (GRIP) is a retro program offered to our members. Retrospective Rating (Retro) is a financial incentive program that is offered by L&I that is based on your company s safety and claims management performance. In Retro, you can earn a partial refund of your workers compensation premiums if you reduce workplace injuries and lower associated claim costs. Enrollment for the plan year starts now! Go to mbapierce.com under programs to download a 2014/2015 Participation Agreement ot to fill out our noobligation response form. We will send you back your premium and loss history and determine if you qualify for the Master Builders Associations Group Retrospective Insurance Program. Thinking about switching from another Retro program to experience GRIP s amazing claims service, safety/ educational programs and above average refunds? Now is the time to take a look! Remember, you can only move from your current Retro program to GRIP during this enrollment period in April/May. Contact us and let us show you the benefit of getting a GRIP on your L&I account! Shower Doors Designer Closets Glass Dividers Soundproof Windows Designer Closets Shower Doors Mirrors / Glass Storefronts Designer Closets Faster & Better Since 1956! Shower Doors Kevin Kartak 2005 Wa. State Businessman of the Year. Free Estimates We Make Things Beautiful! Glass Room Dividers Kent Arola Vice President Treasurer Leslie Jensen 2nd Vice President Local Directors Ernie Dittmann, Josh Dunn, Dennis Gregory, Lynne Hill, Ron Hendrickson, Leslie Jensen, Mark Johnson, Scott Jones, Cathi Mahan, Joe Maxwell, Gary Pedersen Mike Schwartz, Steve Shattuck CGR/CAPS, Erle Thompson, Corey Watson, Scott Lee Wilson, Tim Yokes, Duke York CGR/ CAPS State Directors Kent Arola, Ernie Dittmann, Mike Fast CGR, Ron Hendrickson, Rick Hjelm CGR/ CR, Randy Kruse, Joe Maxwell, Susie Nelson, Tom O Connor, Gary Patterson, Erle Thompson, Kurt Wilson, Duke York, Joe Zehnder Executive Committee Laureen Skrivan President MBA Staff Tiffany Speir- ext. 104 Executive Officer Kim Taylor- ext. 103 Member Benefits Director Laura Haworth- ext. 102 Communications & Marketing Manager Official Publication of: Board of Directors Cathi Mahan Vice President Secretary Kurt Wilson Immediate Past President National Directors Bob Camp, Mike Fast CGR, Lyle Fox, Rick Hjelm Lifetime Directors Dan 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, Joe Maxwell, Cathi Marhan Ann McLaren, Bob Mickey, John Miller, Merrit Nelson, Susie Nelson, Tom O Connior, Les Rhea, William Schuur, Jr., John Slott, Pat Steffan, William Triquart, Doug Vieselmeyer, Dick Wegner, Rick Yorkk, Jim Yurina, Joe Zelazny Lifetime State Directors Robert Camp, Don Cash, Lyle Fox, Steve Garitone, John Slott Lifetime National Directors Robert Camp, Ray Dally, Mike Fast CGR, Lyle Fox, Jim Yurina Kawehi Marshall, CGA, CGP- ext. 105 Events & Education Director Jeremiah Lafranca- ext. 101 Government Affairs Manager Master Builders Association of Pierce County 1120 Pacific Ave., Ste. 301, Tacoma, WA Phone: (253) Fax: (253) info@mbapierce.com MBA DIMENSIONS LIC# AAAKAGC951J7 MBA Mission Statement The 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 22, Number 4 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 Copyright 2013 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.

5 From the Executive Officer Tiffany Speir, Esq. MBA PIERCE WORKING TO IMPROVE SERVICES FOR YOU Last fall, the MBA Pierce Board of Directors reached out to members to find out your perception of the value of MBA s services, and how they could be improved for you. Your responses were taken into account during the Board s 2013 Strategic Planning session. The results of the member survey can be summarized in the following subareas: Networking/Interaction among members (needs improvement, esp. builders with associates) Government Affairs (strong keep it so & improve committee involvement) Public Promotion of Members (needs improvement) Industry Education (builder/remodeler heavy need more sub/trades education) Community Outreach Opportunities (continue & improve) Insurance programs & member financial benefits (continue & expand) A new MBA Pierce strategic plan was adopted in 2013 that includes the following goals: Membership Goals: Achieve total membership of 675 by 12/31/2014, 690 by 12/31/2015 and 710 by 12/31/2016 Reach annualized retention rate of 82% Recruit and engage members from younger generations and diverse background Government Affairs Goal: Grow our impact in local government affairs activities and enhance members awareness of our legislative priorities Communications Goal: Increase public and members awareness of the association Operations/Governance Goals: Optimize governance and committee structure to ensure maximum efficiency Review number and purpose of all committees In response to the 2013 Strategic Plan goals as well as member feedback, during the first quarter of 2014 MBA Pierce members have engaged in a comprehensive review of the association s operations, benefits and products for members in order to streamline them and maximize what MBA Pierce can do for you. So far, here is what has been implemented for you: Shopmbapierce.com is YOUR store. As a member of MBA Pierce, you receive an additional 10% off of all product costs, plus other valuable extras such as expedited products, virtual samples, art and graphics assistance and more. With over 700,000 products ranging from pens to truck wraps to clothing, you and your company will find anything you need. Shopmbapierce.com saves you money and is easy to use and it benefits your association as well. Up to 5% of combined annual sales is rebated back to MBA Pierce. You already buy these items, so why not save money and benefit your association at the same time? MBA Pierce Health Choice: MBA has created a new insurance benefit that is specifically designed for MBA Pierce members who do not qualify for the BIAW Health Insurance Program because of their business activity or company size. MBA Pierce members receive customized plan comparisons and quotes through from top-rated insurance companies like Regence Blue Shield, Premera Blue Cross, Asuris NW, United Healthcare, Group Health, Cigna, Aetna, HealthNet, Kaiser, Assurant Health and more. Both individual health plans and group plans are available through MBAPierce Health Choice. So are health savings account (HSA) plans, and other creative options like health reimbursement arrangements (HRA) and self-funded plans that offer potential refunds based on usage. For more information, go to or contact Kim Taylor at ext Many more changes and improvements to MBA Pierce are coming soon! Watch for new networking opportunities, business and construction education choices, public events and member promotion to the public. You can always see the latest at If you have any feedback, please contact me at tspeir@mbapiece. com. April

6 Are you a MBA of Pierce County member who doesn t qualify for the Building Industry Association of Washington (BIAW) Health Insurance Program? If so, MBA Pierce Health Choice can meet your needs! For a free quote and plan comparison contact MBA Pierce at ext. 103 MBA Pierce Health Choice offers: Plans for self employeed individuals Group plans for businesses between 1-1,000 employees Health Savings Accounts (HSA) Health Reimbursement Arrangements (HRA) and more MBA of Pierce County is not a licensed insurance broker or agent. In referring the user to an insurance company or licensed agent, MBA of Pierce County is not selling insurance or providing coverage advice or counsel relative to coverage. MBA of Pierce County does not solicit, take, or process insurance applications, nor does it negotiate or execute insurance contracts. For policy questions, or to obtain insurance, please contact a licensed member agent or broker. MBA of Pierce County is paid a fee by the participating insurers. Detached: Feb. 14 Av. New Hm. Price = $317,129 / Median New Hm. Price = $289,950 / Av. New Hm. Cost per Sq. Ft. = $ (up 4% from 2/13) Attached (new & existing): Feb. 14 Av. Hm. Price = $164,565 / Median Hm. Price = $147,750 / New Av. Cost Per Sq. Ft. = $ (up 8% from 2/13) Feb. 14 Average Lot Price = $69,354 / Median Lot Price = $65,000 / Av. Lot = 21.8% of Av. Home Price Med. Lot = 22.4% of Med. Home Price Av. Foreclosed SF Home Price: $173,810 (28.5% of existing homes / 30% of all homes for sale) Source: RealEstats ( ) FEB 14 YTD 14 FEB 13 YTD 13 PIERCE COUNTY Lots created New SF / Custom 48 / / / / 102 Addition/Remodel 30 / / / / 97 Duplex / Man. / Town House NA / 14 / 16 NA / 24 / 16 0 / 24 / 0 0 / 30 / 0 BONNEY LAKE SF / Add-Remodel 13 / 3 13 / 3 18 / 2 26 / 4 MF / Manufactured 1 / 1 1 / 1 0 / 0 0 / 0 DUPONT SF / Add-Remodel 0 / 1 0 / 11 0 / 1 0 / 1 MF / Manufactured 0 / NA 0 / NA 0 / NA 0 / NA FIFE SF / Add-Remodel 2 / NA 4 / NA 4 / NA 9 / NA PUYALLUP SF / Add-Remodel 7 / 2 26 / 4 14 / 3 26 / 3 TACOMA SF / Add-Remodel 12 / / / / 106 MF / Manufactured 0 / 0 0 / 0 7 / 0 7 / 0 UNIVERSITY PLACE SF / Add-Remodel 1 / 6 5 / 11 4 / 5 7 / 10 MF / Manufactured 0 / 0 0 / 0 0 / 0 0 / MBA DIMENSIONS

7 GOVERNMENT AFFAIRS UPDATE Universal Building Permit Application Form and Multi-Jurisdictional Base Plan Approval Process: MBA Pierce is working with local governments to create 1) a single building permit application form that could be used at local governments throughout our area, and 2) a way for builders to submit a house plan for full review one time, and have other cities or the County accept that review with just a light review by their own staff. This process is now expected to go live within the coming months and MBA staff will provide more information on which jurisdictions will be involved and how the process will work. serving on the advisory group. County Shoreline Master Program Update: On March 3, the County Council s Community Development Committee (CDC) held its first in a series of public hearings on the latest draft of the Shoreline Master Program update. It amended the proposal to include the updated version of the draft program as recommended by the CDC s 2013 subcommittee and reviewed by the Planning Commission last fall. Meeting with County Sewer Utility Director: MBA representatives met in March with the new Sewer Utility Director, Carl Every, and Sewer Utility staff members Karl Imlig and or Steve Chanfrau. This is the first in a series of meetings to discuss issues related to sewer permitting that will be held now as development activity increases. Pre-submittal meetings, submittal requirements, and more were discussed. To get involved or learn more, please contact Tiffany Speir. Members participating in NAHB s Bringing Housing Home Week Members participate in NAHB s Bringing Housing Home Week: As part of NAHB s Bringing Housing Home week in March, MBA Pierce members met with Congressional Representatives Derek Kilmer and Denny Heck to discuss the state of the housing industry as well as bills being considered in DC that would affect the industry s continued improvement for better or for worse, including housing finance reform, tax reform, and immigration reform. Thank you to Kent Arola, Kurt Wilson, Erle Thompson, Tres Kirkebo, Mike Fast, and Bill Riley for talking with Rep. Derek Kilmer. Thank you to Kent Arola, and Mike Fast for meeting with Denny Heck. You can view more information about this week long outreach effort here: PC Stormwater Manual Update: Work continues at the advisory group level on the updates to the Pierce County Stormwater Design Manual based on the County s latest NPDES permit. Three meetings have been held so far out of a planned five. Thank you to Sean Comfort, Kurt Wilson, Damon DeRosa who are with Congressional Representatives Denny Heck and Derek Kilmer Bonney Lake: City staff in Bonney Lake were scheduled to present an ordinance to the City Council on March 25, 2014 which would have updated the city s permit fees to the most current version of the ICC Building Valuation Tables, as well as include a 3% technology fee placed on each issued permit (with the expectation that this technology fee would move Bonney Lake to electronic plan review). Overall, adding a technology fee and using current building valuation data tables from ICC total fees would have increased fees by around 2.8%; the difference in ICC total fees under the new regulation for a 2,000 sq ft home with a garage would be an increase of $ The 3% technology fee comes to $ continued on pg. 8 April

8 continued from pg MBA Pierce Proud Partners Thank you to our 2014 MBA Proud Partners! AAA KARTAK Glass & Closet Corporation Associated Petroleum Products Fournier Insurance Solutions Gray Lumber Company Lakewood Ford Parr Lumber Co. Puget Sound Energy ServiceMaster of Tacoma Sterling Bank Home Loans-Gig Harbor Team Me Up Scotty Proud Partners is a Dimensions Sponsorship available through the TSC sponsorship campaign. Please Contact Kawehi Marshall at ext. 105 if you would like to be listed as a proud partner. MBA staff submitted two letters to the City Council opposing the fee altogether and suggesting a phased implementation if it were to be adopted. Upon receiving the letters, the City Council tabled this ordinance sent it back to committee to discuss a permit fee system that will better serve the building industry. MBA staff will be assisting the council by providing information on what other jurisdictions are doing in terms of determining their permit fees. This issue will be closely monitored and reported on at the LSC meeting on April 8, Gig Harbor: Gig Harbor is in the midst of updating their Tree, Landscaping and Screening requirements under Chapter of their municipal code. Late last year, city staff met with the Planning Commission to discuss a rather aggressive Green First program to make major overhauls to the landscaping requirements for residential and commercial properties. The Planning Commission conducted a public hearing and MBA staff provided written testimony based on feedback received from various MBA members. City staff is expected to review the public comments with the Planning Commission in the coming weeks and make revisions to the amendment. Please visit and look under the Planning Commission agendas for the February 20, 2014 agenda to see the most recent version of the proposed amendment. Tacoma: The Planning Commission held a public hearing on March 19, 2014 to receive public comment on the proposed annual amendments which include new regulations for pipe stem lots such as specific setbacks depending on the zoning district and height restrictions and regulations requiring that all new multi-family housing built in Tacoma provide electric vehicle infrastructure for 10% of the parking spaces provided. Jeremiah Lafranca provided written and oral testimony to the Planning Commission to express concern over the proposed amendments. More detailed information on the annual amendments can be found in the Public Review Document that is posted along with other relevant information at www. cityoftacoma.org/planning (and click on 2014 Annual Amendment ). MBA staff will continue to monitor these regulations as they develop. Pocket Gophers in Thurston County: It is expected that the Mazama Pocket Gopher will be listed as an endangered species on April 30, MBA members met with Congressman Denny Heck on March 21, 2014 and discussed the growing concern over the effect that this will have on building within Thurston County. Congressman Heck stated that US Fish and Wildlife ultimately has the power to determine what the regulations regarding building will be and whether there is anything builders can do to mitigate the effects of this endangered species listing. As it stands right now, no matter where an applicant is in the permit process, once the pocket gopher is listed as an endangered species it would effectively put a moratorium on the project if the species is located on the property. MBA staff will be monitoring this issue closely and working with the Olympia Master Builders to see how building in Thurston County will ultimately be affected. As of right now, the pocket gopher has only been identified on JBLM within Pierce County. Find out about these and more issues by attending the monthly Legislative Strategy Committee on the 2nd Tuesday of each month at 3:30 pm at the MBA office or by contacting Jeremiah Lafranca or Tiffany Speir at MBA. 8 - MBA DIMENSIONS

9 From the Builders Group Gary Patterson, Omega Custom Homes MORE MEETINGS IN 2014 would like to begin by thanking everyone for the tremendous I support that the Builders Group has received from members of the MBA and from our generous 2014 sponsor, Century Insurance Services LLC. The Builders Group is excited to provide opportunities for builders to come together to be educated on builder specific issues and for a chance to network and associate with other builders. Our Steering Committee currently consist of myself, co-chair Mike Schwartz, Deb Hollenbeck, Lyle Fox, Cliff Kendall, Amanda Spruell and Mike Fast. The Steering Committee will be looking to create subcommittees to assist in moving the Builders Group forward to greater heights this year. Subcommittees will be formed to address such issues as obtaining sponsorships for the Builders Group, events, agendas and benefits. Please contact me if you are interested in becoming involved. The primary focus of the Builders Group this year will be to create interactive and educational meetings that benefit how builders do business and we will seek to accomplish this goal by providing business education, pursuing information to provide the group on services and new products and maintaining a presence within the MBA. The Builders Group is excited to announce that one of the ways it will seek to maintain a presence this year within the MBA is by hosting a family event which will be open to all members of the MBA. More information on this family event will be available in the coming months - stay tuned! Please join us at our upcoming Builders Group meetings and provide your feedback and insight on how we can take the group to new heights: 5/22 Builders Group Signature Design & Cabinetry. 8/7 Builders Group Meet & the Tacoma Rainiers. 11/25 Joint Remodelers Council/Builders Group meeting at Puget Sound Energy. While the Builders Group is exclusively for members with a general contractor s registration, there are many ways for other members to get involved such as sponsorships and meeting hosting opportunities. Please contact Jeremiah Lafranca at gam@mbapierce.com to find out more Housing Forum April 8:00 am Allenmore Events Center (2013 S Cedar St.,Tacoma) Featured Speakers: Leonard Magazine (RealEstats) discussing real estate market trends in WA State and Pierce County. Matthew Gardner (Gardener Economics), editor of the WCRER Central Puget Sound Real Estate Research Report, providing his annual forecast. David Mayer (Community at Houzz.com) providing an in-depth look into homeowner building and renovation plans, priorities and motivations. (Live via skype) RSVP at eventbrite.com Presented by March Sponsored by

10 Meet and Learn Join or renew in Built Green for 1/2 price at the meeting! Join us April 24 at 5:30 at the EnviroHouse (3510 S. Mullen, Tacoma) to meet your fellow green building industry members and to get introduced to the new TPCBG unified SF/ Townhome certification checklist adopted in coordination with Built Green Washington. RSVP to AROUND THE MBA The Tacoma Chamber of Commerce recognized the following members at their 12th Annual Tahoma Environmental Business Award which honors local business for outstanding environmental awareness and efficiency. Congratulations to the award nominees! Earthwise Tacoma NW Furniture Bank Tacoma-Pierce County Habitat for Humanity The Puget Sound Business Examiner s 2014 Top Places to Work recognized outstanding company cultures in the South Sound Congratulations to the MBA Pierce member nominees. Doty, Beardsley, Rosengren & Co., P.S. Laborworks Premier Media Group Special congratulations to members Premier Media Group and South Sound Magazine for winning the Small/Medium company award. ARE YOU MOBILE? View our new online member directory and calendar from your iphone or android. Search for My Association app by Builder Fusion. Once downloaded, search under Washington State for MBA Pierce. Built Green : Working in Partnership for a Sustainable Built Environment in Tacoma and Pierce County. Why aren t YOU green yet? Thank you to our 2014 Program sponsor Questions? contact communications@mbapierce.com

11 From the SPIKE Committee Chair Ernie Dittmann, ServiceMaster Of Tacoma OVERCOMING THE WORD NO IN RECRUITING Last month our Membership Chair wrote about how to present the Association when recruiting new members. This month I would like to delve a little deeper into recruiting strategies by talking about how to overcome objections. Here are the most common reason why a potential member says no, and how to help them see why the Master Builders Association of Pierce County will be right for their business. Objection 1: I m too busy to be involved. There are many ways and areas of involvement, I m sure one of these will suit you and work with your schedule. If you can t fit committee or council meetings into your schedule, just start with a networking event after work or an MBA luncheon. Be understanding, but ask if another member of their company could come in their place. Everyone s schedule is different. You don t have to get involved if you are truly too busy. There are other members just as dedicated to the industry that can carry the water. Help support the members who can get involved. Objection 2: I can t afford it right now. Be understanding; try to resonate with the financial concerns that are cited, but note that connecting with peers will help boost business. With all that is happening in the building industry right now, you almost cannot afford not to join today. MBA Pierce offers payment plans to help with the burden of costs. Taking advantage of many of the discounts and member benefits can result in the dues paying for themselves. Objection 3: I don t see the value of joining the association. Ask questions about their business, how they market, how they keep abreast of current issues, how they gain referrals, if they feel like they have a voice in local jurisdictional issues joining the association will help with all of these. Ask why they don t see the value; as they answer you can address their specific points oneby-one. Next month we will continue the discussion by talking about where to find potential leads for recruitment. Join the MBA of Pierce County Group Fuel Program! Help your fellow members and the MBA of Pierce County save and earn Cumulative group gallons will earn quarterly rebates 75% of rebate paid to member, 25% paid to the MBA of Pierce County Earn quarterly rebates based on your fuel purchases Currently, MBA members are earning $0.075/gal! Sign up today to start saving & earning MBA $$$$$! Contact Dennis Gregory, Sales Representative dgregory@associatedpetroleum.com APP Associated Petroleum Products, Inc. Corporate Headquarters 2320 Milwaukee Way, Tacoma, WA (800) or (253) Fax: (253) ARC: 1301

12 From the Remodelors Council Chair Erle Thompson, Home Makeovers Made Simple REMODELING EXCELLENCE AWARDS IN MAY You ve worked hard this past year to plan, prepare and execute remodeling projects reflecting excellence in craft and earning another contented customer. The Remodeling Excellence Awards are coming up and it s a great opportunity to receive recognition for the work your team accomplished. There are 27 different categories open for submission. We are confident there is something that perfectly fits one of your completed projects. To qualify for submission, your company must be a member of the Remodelors Council. The deadline to submit your project(s) for the Remodeling Excellence Awards is April 11th and fast approaching. Be sure to register for the annual awards banquet honoring the award recipients. The banquet is held on Tuesday, May 20 from 5:30-9 pm at the Allenmore Golf & Events Center located at 2013 South Cedar St., Tacoma, WA Get ready to enjoy a wonderful meal of steak and salmon, ensure you register prior to the May 13 deadline. Cost per attendee is $50 Contact Kim Taylor for a Remodelors Council Application, and Kawehi Marshall for the REX Awards Application. MBA PIERCE EXCLUSIVE MEMBER INCENTIVE TRIP Need a relaxing getaway this fall? Join MBA Pierce s member getters for a fun, relaxing weekend in Portland, OR on October 24, 25, & 26. The group will indeed travel Portland arriving by train on Friday, overnights at the Marriott Waterfront Portland, a day to roam the city and check out a few of the city s hot spots craft breweries, wine tasting, shopping, art galleries and much, much more! Add a group dinner (with entertainment) and a leisurely Sunday with a nice relaxing ride back home and VOILA! You will be transformed and ready to face your week. What does it take to earn such a treat? Invite 6 new Builder or Associate members to visit MBA Pierce and secure their paid membership application (between January 1 and September 30) and you AND your guest will be set to relax with your fellow MBA Members! Some of you already have a GREAT start: Kent Arola, Rob Hanlon, Mark Johnson, Susie Nelson, Gary Patterson, and Mike Schwartz have all had 2 new members join MBA Pierce Jill Ginn, Ron Hendrickson, Rick Hjelm, Peter James, Leslie Jensen, Rebecca Jones, Scott Jones, Gayle Kassen, Chris Lockhart, Cathi Mahan, Laureen Skrivan, Erle Thompson, and Fred Thompson are just getting started with 1 new member each! Want to join us? Contact Kim at the MBA Pierce office to learn how to start earning your way to a nice relaxing weekend all on MBA Pierce! 12 - MBA DIMENSIONS MBA Pierce has endorsed the Metro Parks 2014 Neighborhood Parks & Zoo Improvements and Safety Upgrades Bond, a capital bond measure for Parks & Zoo Improvements and Safety Upgrades. The $198 million public investment would help preserve the park system through district-wide capital priorities. MBA Pierce is proud to support this bond measure, stated 2014 President Laureen Skrivan. The Metro Parks system is a gem in our community that everyone can enjoy. This broad based funding source will provide a steady and predictable way to pay for much needed improvement. Vote yes for Parks on April 22!

13 TM 2014 MBA EDUCATION SCHEDULE 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. Take the opportunity to advance your industry knowledge and skills. For more information on professional designations from NAHB, and the most current class schedules log onto and view education under programs. Start the path to your designation today! Date Name of Class Cost Designation April 16 RRP Certified Lead Renovator - Initial Class $ Certification April 17 RRP Certified Lead Renovator - Refresher Class $ Certification May 7 Construction Contracts & Law $ CGR, CGB, CGA May 22 am Construction Wars: The Contractor Strikes Back $ Continuing ED May 22 pm How to Survive and Succeed as a Subcontractor $ Continuing ED June 19 L & I Compliance Safety Training $ Continuing ED June 20 Hazardous Communciations Training $ Continuing ED July Certified Erosion and Sediment Control Lead $ Certification July 18 Certified Erosion and Sediment Control Recertification $ Certification August 18 New L & I Interpretations of Subcontractors and Empl. $ Continuing ED October 1 Negotiating Skills $ CGR, CGB, CGA EXCLUSIVE PRICING FOR HBA MEMBERS - FOR FREE! Since 2007 many HBA Chapters have partnered with NPP to offer members discount pricing on several products and services. NPP negotiates the rates, and makes them available to member firms throughout the country. This program is entirely free, and there is no obligation to purchase. To access the savings, register with NPP at Listed below are some of the discounts available to participating HBA Chapter members: Many HBA members are already saving time and money through the NPP program. To access the discount pricing, register with NPP. Signing up is free and easy. HOW TO REGISTER Go to Click Join Now. Select Construction from the dropdown menu. Select Residential from the Category dropdown menu. Select HBPP from the Association dropdown menu. Complete the registration form. For more information about the program, feel free to contact NPP: customerservice@mynpp.com Corporate Discount - 22% off all eligible wireless calling plans $34.99 and higher, plus free activation Employee Discount - 15% off eligible wireless calling plans $34.99 and higher (plus additional 3% discount if enrolled in online billing) Add-On Data Features - 22% discount on eligible plans of $24.99 or higher $20 for 3GB of data on corporate lines Select Accessory Discount - 25% off eligible Verizon accessories Verizon Eligibility Requirements: Each member must be a construction company, home building company, remodeling company or other trade craftsman, or a subcontractor whose primary trade is within the construction industry. This includes an association or union within the construction industry. Five line mininum, two corporate lines required. Discount pricing on maintenance, repair, and operating supplies Local products and service at 2,600+ stores Discounted, contracted prices on over 30,000 supplies and services Free next-day delivery on most standard orders over $30 Fleet management solution helps increase productivity, fuel efficiency, and driver accountability 15% discount on unique bundle of services Wireless routers and mobile broadband adapters for reliable 4G connection Up to 22% discount on various devices Toll-free audio conferencing for only 3 cents per minute; no contract, setup or monthly fee High-def remote surveillance for your job site 25% off monthly service and cameras Receive money for your used phones Additional 10% for members April

14 WELCOME NEW MEMBERS AS OF 2/28/2014 First Choice Remodeling Inc Christina Roberts Canyon Rd E Puyallup, WA (253) F (253) Remodeler, Commercial/Industrial; Remodeler, Residential Spike: Gary Patterson WELCOME BACK Foundation Specialists LLC Michael Locquiao th St E Tacoma, WA (253) F (253) Foundations/Flatwork; General Contractor Spike: Jill Ginn Master Millwork Inc Cathy Rasmussen Canyon Rd E Puyallup, WA (253) F (253) Millwork Spike: Fred Thompson CONNECT WITH US MBA Pierce connects industry leaders together to grow our communities through advocating affordable and healthy housing, peer to peer networking, education and community #mbapierce facebook linkedin twitter youtube instragram The Auction Committee invites you to join us in making our annual Building Foundations Auction a success! The Building Foundations Auction will benefit the veteran services provided by Rebuilding Together South Sound as well as MBA Pierce operations. SAVE THE DATE! May 16th, :00 pm Doors open 5:30 pm Marriott Courtyard Downtown benefitting veteran services provided by: rsvp at: 2014buildingfoundations.eventbrite.com Do you have something to donate? Contact Kawehi Marshall at ext. 105 to join in ASAP, and thank you! 14 - MBA DIMENSIONS