July Aug 2008 FINAL

Builder Profile Madison Homes Inc.

Giving Back Through the Wisconsin Builders Foundation

July/August 2008

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Wisconsin Badger Builder • July/August 2008 • www.wisbuild.org2 Wisconsin Badger Builder • July/August 2008 • www.wisbuild.org

Senior Officers 2008President: Jason Steen,

Osseo (Chippewa Valley)

President Elect: Doug Scott, Janesville (South Central WI)

Treasurer: Jim Kubasta, Oshkosh (Winnebago)

Secretary: Don Esposito, Madison (Madison Area)

Immediate Past President: Mark Etrheim,

La Crosse (La Crosse Area)

Associate Vice President: Greg Schaffer,

Madison (Madison Area)

Associate Advisor to the Senior Officers:

Julie Meyer, Racine (Racine-Kenosha)

Area Vice Presidents 2008Southeast Area

Mark Benkowski (Metropolitan)

Darryl Spang (Racine-Kenosha)

Northwest Area Clint Doege (Heart of the North)

Monica Sommerfeldt-Lewis (Chippewa Valley)

Southwest Area Tom Thompson (La Crosse Area)

Steve Treu (La Crosse Area)

Northeast Area Mark Bootz (Brown Co.)

Scott Browne (Brown Co.)

South Area Brian McKee (Madison Area)

Greg Schaffer (Madison Area)

East Central Area Tracy Royer (Valley)

Stan Martenson (Valley)

North Area Pam Jewell (Golden Sands)

Mike Richie (Wausau Area)

East Shore Area Gary Roehrig (Sheboygan Co.)

Sean Kelly (Mid-Shores)

State Representative to NAHB Wayne Foster (Metropolitan)

14

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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®.

July/August 2008 Volume 25 • Issue 4features

Capital Corner ..................................................................... 7State Representative Mike Sheridan stresses the importance of working together to chart a new course for the state’s economy.

Passion, Endurance and Humility ..................................... 8Waukesha builder/developer Bryce Styza of Harmony Homes Inc. remains passionate about the industry after five decades — with no plans for slowing down.

A Foundation of Giving .................................................... 12Christine Shaefer, executive vice president of Valley HBA, explains the Wisconsin Builders Foundation and the important work it does.

Builder Profile ................................................................... 21James C. Bourne of Madison Homes Inc. takes a high-tech approach on all his projects.

departmentsPresident’s Perspective ................................................................................ 3Membership Has Value

Executive Viewpoint ..................................................................................... 4Bryce Styza

Government Affairs ...................................................................................... 5WBA Members Go to Washington, D.C.

Local Happenings ....................................................................................... 14Photos and Details of WBA Local Associations’ Events Around the State

Member Advantage .................................................................................... 16Many Plans to Choose From

News & Events ............................................................................................. 18

About the CoverGovernor Warren Knowles (seated) signs the Uniform Building Code into law as (l to r) Harry Franke, Robert Buss, Bryce Styza and an unknown person look on.

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Wisconsin Badger Builder • July/August 2008 • www.wisbuild.org Wisconsin Badger Builder • July/August 2008 • www.wisbuild.org 3

Senior Officers 2008President: Jason Steen,

Osseo (Chippewa Valley)

President Elect: Doug Scott, Janesville (South Central WI)

Treasurer: Jim Kubasta, Oshkosh (Winnebago)

Secretary: Don Esposito, Madison (Madison Area)

Immediate Past President: Mark Etrheim,

La Crosse (La Crosse Area)

Associate Vice President: Greg Schaffer,

Madison (Madison Area)

Associate Advisor to the Senior Officers:

Julie Meyer, Racine (Racine-Kenosha)

Area Vice Presidents 2008Southeast Area

Mark Benkowski (Metropolitan)

Darryl Spang (Racine-Kenosha)

Northwest Area Clint Doege (Heart of the North)

Monica Sommerfeldt-Lewis (Chippewa Valley)

Southwest Area Tom Thompson (La Crosse Area)

Steve Treu (La Crosse Area)

Northeast Area Mark Bootz (Brown Co.)

Scott Browne (Brown Co.)

South Area Brian McKee (Madison Area)

Greg Schaffer (Madison Area)

East Central Area Tracy Royer (Valley)

Stan Martenson (Valley)

North Area Pam Jewell (Golden Sands)

Mike Richie (Wausau Area)

East Shore Area Gary Roehrig (Sheboygan Co.)

Sean Kelly (Mid-Shores)

State Representative to NAHB Wayne Foster (Metropolitan)

Membership Has Value

by Jason Steen, 2008 WBA President

I hope this article finds you all doing well. The late spring sure has wreaked havoc on all of us in the

northern part of the state. The ice didn’t even disappear from the lakes until early May. That sure made for some treacher-ous construction sites! Since my last article, WBA has been busy supplying information for the legislative audit and the governance audit. It appears both are on track for completion prior to strategic planning. I look forward to delving into the insights and information both will provide to keep our organization strong and moving forward. These audits are an essential part of any organization that hopes to continue to improve, and I’m proud of WBA and all of those who participated in the process.

WBA has also been working specifically on communication. This means not only through electronic and print media, but also by good old face-to-face or telephone conversations. Your senior officers are committed to narrowing the gap between members and information. We are very invested in getting the word out about WBA and its activities, and all we ask is that the members meet us halfway.

Multiple avenues for communication already exist: the senior officers, area vice-presidents, committee chairs, board members and, of course, WBA staff. As long as we have members from every local engaged in the process, there should be no reason for anyone to say they don’t know what WBA does for them. Go to meetings. Read the newsletters and magazines that come to your door. If you do so, I’m sure you will quickly agree the lobbying influ-ence of our governmental affairs team alone more than pays for your dues.

Check out “The Final Inspection” newsletter distributed by WBA in May and you will see the tremendous amount accomplished on political issues that

affected the building industry. If you are a member who is involved in your local, ask your executive officer and/or president to report on WBA activities as a regular feature of your local board and membership meetings. This will help all of us stay in touch with the value membership in WBA brings.

I also would like to take this oppor-tunity to congratulate all the locals that gained new members during the Big Hunt Membership drive on May 7 & 8. After this drive, we have returned to over 9,000 members, which is spectacular! Now we just need to work on keeping us at that number. I know with the times the way they are, it is difficult, but these are the times when we need to stick together to keep the large voice and representation across the state that we have.

Speaking of members from across the state, a group recently took time out of their busy schedule to travel to Washington, D.C. for the Legislative Conference and NAHB Spring Board. This was a great opportunity to directly lobby our legislators and put a face on the issues affecting us as members of this association. One of the hot topics, of course, was a stimulus package aimed specifically at boosting the hous-ing industry. I admit, it was tough to hear that the National Association has now lengthened its recovery forecast for sometime in early 2009. However, at the time of this writing, multiple plans were in the works, so I hope something positive has passed by the time you read this!

So watch your business closely, and make good, informed decisions. Stay active in your membership, and you will gain tremendously from other members’ experiences and business strategies. We will make it through this year, and I’m confident the next 20 years will be better than the last 20. X

President’s

PERSPECtIVE

14

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®.

July/August 2008 Volume 25 • Issue 4

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by Brad Boycks, Director of Government Affairs

In late April/early May, a group of Wisconsin Builders Association® (WBA) members and staff traveled

to Washington, D.C. to attend the annual National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) Legislative Conference. Every year a group from Wisconsin joins forces with members from across the country to gain information on the legislative issues that NAHB is currently working on and to meet with members of Congress to make sure the voices of the building industry are heard.

The timing of this year’s event was perfect, because it coincided with an

WBA Staff4868 High Crossing Blvd.,

Madison, WI 53704 • (888) 285-9066

Executive Vice President: Bill Wendle, ext. 11

[email protected]

Director of Government Affairs: Brad Boycks, ext. 16

[email protected]

Director of Political Affairs: Kate Levanetz, ext. 15

[email protected]

Director of Development Council: Pat Stevens, ext. 22

[email protected]

Director of Membership Services: Jane Witt, ext. 17

[email protected]

Director of Safety and Education: Cindi Gruebling, ext. 18 [email protected]

Director of Communications: Annie Rubens, ext. 19 [email protected]

Director of Accounting Services: Kathy Johnsen, ext. 12 [email protected]

Accounting Assistant: Mark Nelson, ext. 25

[email protected]

Administrative Assistant: Kimberly Fay, ext. 10

[email protected]

WBA Insurance ServicesAgency Manager:

Karl Johnson, ext. 23 [email protected]

Sales & Service Associate: Megan Taylor, ext. 24 [email protected]

Editor ..............................Annie Rubens

Published by

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

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

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

Advertising Sales Manager ....... Brenda Poe

Advertising Sales .................Keri Gustafson(800) 935-1592, ext. 133

[email protected]

Bryce Styza

by Bill Wendle, WBA Executive Vice President

What can you say? First, of course, 50 years of dedica-tion is unparalleled. Yes,

for anyone that has missed it, Bryce Styza has been a Metropolitan Builders, Wisconsin Builders, and National Association of Home Builders member for 50 years.

Bryce is more than a long-term member. Bryce is a dedicated, committed and active member of Wisconsin Builders Association® (WBA). He has been there for your association in the lean years and helped create the good years. Bryce has been a friend to me since I started in February of 1995. In September, unfor-tunately, I had to let two of the existing staff go. Bryce, with his reputation and demeanor, called me and said, “Bill you are doing the right thing, keep it up.”

I have to add Jerry Deschane’s comment at the time was, “What does he mean by that?!” Was he inferring that I should fire some more staff members? No, I can honestly say he wasn’t, but Bryce got it; he knew in order to move the association forward, we needed some change beyond my position. Without waver, Bryce has continued to be there for me over the years, supporting both my professional goals and the goals of WBA.

I want to share how Bryce began his involvement with the Wisconsin Builders Association Foundation. Bryce called one day and tried to “sell” me on WBA creating a charitable founda-tion. I responded with all the reasons we should create one. Bryce paused and said, “Bill, we’re agreeing; let’s stop this discussion. You do the work and send me the bill.” He then followed up with a gift of $10,000 to create the Foundation, essentially paying for the

legal work for attorneys, etc. It took about nine months, and at one point he asked, “Do you need more money?”

That’s how dedicated he was, and how WBA was able to create and have the benefit of a Foundation. All of our members benefit from the Foundation and its support of education, demonstra-tion projects, and supporting people and projects in need throughout the state.

For anyone not aware, the Foundation and Bryce are two of the key factors in the Metropolitan Builder’s Wisconsin Trend Home™. Bryce, Matt Moroney and Tim O’Brien were the three people that paved the way for the Wisconsin Trend Home™. The Wisconsin Trend Home™ is a project that demonstrates to the public innovative technology in every facet of its construction. This project uses all the latest green building tech-niques and recycled materials. It incor-porates water conservation and on-site water recycling. The Wisconsin Trend Home™ is a wholly-owned subsidiary of your Wisconsin Builders Association Foundation. Upon completion, the home will be sold and proceeds will be distrib-uted to both the WBA Foundation and La Casa De Esperanza.

Bryce and Anne Styza, Bryce’s wife of 50 plus years, have been there repeat-edly for WBA. Anne was involved in Atlanta on Neil Haselwander’s campaign for NAHB president. My wife, Marlene, got to know Anne during that campaign, as they folded literature and worked tire-lessly on Neil’s behalf. Anne is a delight-ful, wonderful part of the Bryce Styza legacy that I have grown to know and appreciate. In my years at WBA, Bryce has been willing to take on any task with leadership and dedication. I am privileged to be able to call him my friend, and I am grateful for how he has helped me during my career with WBA. X

Executive

VIEWPoInt

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WBA Members Go to Washington, D.C.

Government

AFFAIRSby Brad Boycks, Director of Government Affairs

In late April/early May, a group of Wisconsin Builders Association® (WBA) members and staff traveled

to Washington, D.C. to attend the annual National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) Legislative Conference. Every year a group from Wisconsin joins forces with members from across the country to gain information on the legislative issues that NAHB is currently working on and to meet with members of Congress to make sure the voices of the building industry are heard.

The timing of this year’s event was perfect, because it coincided with an

ongoing debate in both the United States Senate and House of Representatives regarding the need for a housing stimulus package that will hopefully pass in early June. A great deal of the debate centered on NAHB’s support for a “homebuyer tax credit.”

The credit that NAHB and the Wisconsin members who traveled to Washington, D.C. advocated for would include the following criteria that their economic staff feels would do the most to stimulate the housing economy:

• A temporary, one-year offer• A fixed credit amount tied to average

local housing prices

• A nonrefundable credit, subject to a carry forward

• Only principal residences qualify• Offered only to first-time homebuyersThere are two major plans that have

been introduced on this topic: one in the House of Representatives (HR 5720) and one in the Senate (HR 3221). Both plans contain a homebuyer tax credit. The House version call for a $7,500/year credit and the Senate version includes a $3,500/year credit.

There are some key differences in the two proposals. The Senate plan only allows for the purchase of a home that

legal work for attorneys, etc. It took about nine months, and at one point he asked, “Do you need more money?”

That’s how dedicated he was, and how WBA was able to create and have the benefit of a Foundation. All of our members benefit from the Foundation and its support of education, demonstra-tion projects, and supporting people and projects in need throughout the state.

For anyone not aware, the Foundation and Bryce are two of the key factors in the Metropolitan Builder’s Wisconsin Trend Home™. Bryce, Matt Moroney and Tim O’Brien were the three people that paved the way for the Wisconsin Trend Home™. The Wisconsin Trend Home™ is a project that demonstrates to the public innovative technology in every facet of its construction. This project uses all the latest green building tech-niques and recycled materials. It incor-porates water conservation and on-site water recycling. The Wisconsin Trend Home™ is a wholly-owned subsidiary of your Wisconsin Builders Association Foundation. Upon completion, the home will be sold and proceeds will be distrib-uted to both the WBA Foundation and La Casa De Esperanza.

Bryce and Anne Styza, Bryce’s wife of 50 plus years, have been there repeat-edly for WBA. Anne was involved in Atlanta on Neil Haselwander’s campaign for NAHB president. My wife, Marlene, got to know Anne during that campaign, as they folded literature and worked tire-lessly on Neil’s behalf. Anne is a delight-ful, wonderful part of the Bryce Styza legacy that I have grown to know and appreciate. In my years at WBA, Bryce has been willing to take on any task with leadership and dedication. I am privileged to be able to call him my friend, and I am grateful for how he has helped me during my career with WBA. X

Continued on page 6

Visit our web site @

www.wisbuild.org

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by State Representative Mike Sheridan

There is a lot of talk in politi-cal circles that Democrats are poised to take control of the State

Assembly this November. Regardless of the outcome, the economy must be the Legislature’s top priority.

Some of you reading this may already know my background. For those of you who don’t, I grew up in Janesville, and my father worked at the GM Assembly Plant. So, when I graduated from high school, I naturally joined my father on the assembly line. After many years, I became more involved in my union, United Auto Workers Local 95.

Eventually, I was elected to serve as the president of my local. In 2004, I ran for and was elected to the State Assembly. I have been working hard to do both jobs for the past three years and have been blessed with wonderful co-workers and support staff who have helped me manage my time. However, in February, I decided that I would not seek a third term as president of Local 95 and instead focus all my energies on my seat in the State Assembly. The term for my union office expires next month.

I mention all this to explain that I know what it is like to be on the front lines fighting for our state’s economy. When I was elected as president of Local 95, we charted a new course for the Janesville Assembly Plant. Instead of continuing the old battles between labor and management, we partnered with management with the understanding that we were both in it together. Only through cooperation did either of us stand a chance of survival.

We’ve had many important victories over the last six years and survived several rounds of plant closings. However, recently, GM announced that it would be laying off 756 workers at our

has been foreclosed on, while the House version of the bill allows the credit to be used on any single-family residence (including condos) that will be used as a primary residence.

The House version of the bill has an income eligibility cap of $70,000 for an individual and $140,000 for married couples. In contrast, the Senate version of the bill has no income restrictions. Finally, the House version of the bill is for first-time homebuyers only, defined as not having owned a home in the previous three years. The Senate version of the bill has no restrictions, and all purchasers are eligible for the credit, with the exception that the Senate credit is only for the sale of a foreclosed home.

Obviously, as evidenced by the many differences in the two plans, this is very much a work in progress, and the final version of the plan, if any, remains to be seen in the weeks to come. As far as timing goes, those lobbying members of Congress urged either quick action

on a plan or that the idea be abandoned altogether. NAHB staff and members alike fear that by either not quickly passing a homebuyer tax credit, or deciding not to move forward with the plan at all, could delay a potential homebuyer’s decision to purchase a home while waiting for Congress to act.

Why were NAHB and members at the Legislative Conference pushing the home-buyer tax credit? The thought is that by providing a tax credit to purchase a home, it would work to reduce the current back-log of houses on the market. A similar tax credit was approved by Congress in 1975, and, according to NAHB, was successful in accelerating home purchases. Officials said, “The surge forward to additional purchases did stimulate more construction, as builders were able to replace some of the inventory that had become a signifi-cant overhang.”

How did the Wisconsin congressio-nal delegation react to our request to quickly pass a homebuyer tax credit? Overall, members received a positive response from legislators and their staff. Congressman Paul Ryan (R-Janesville)

expressed one very real fear concerning the passage of a homebuyer tax credit to members. Congressman Ryan was gener-ally supportive of the stand-alone concept of providing some type of homebuyer tax credit, but was fearful that this type of provision would merge with a number of other provisions to create a very large, very expensive bill.

If the homebuyer tax credit is rolled into a much larger package, it is likely that a number of more fiscally conserva-tive members of both parties would likely vote against the package. In addition, if it reached President Bush’s desk, he would likely veto the entire bill. Time will tell on the future of providing a tax credit to people to purchase a home and jumpstart the economy.

Thank you to all the WBA members who took time out of their busy sched-ules to travel to Washington, D.C. and attend the 2008 NAHB Legislative Conference. The grassroots lobbying of your elected officials on the federal and state level makes a big difference in advancing the legislative agendas of NAHB and WBA. X

GoVERnMEnt AFFAIRSContinued from page 5

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Charting a New Course

Capitol Corner is a regular feature for Badger Builder. In this space, a Wisconsin legisla-tor 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 contin-ued 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.

Capitol

CoRnER

by State Representative Mike Sheridan

There is a lot of talk in politi-cal circles that Democrats are poised to take control of the State

Assembly this November. Regardless of the outcome, the economy must be the Legislature’s top priority.

Some of you reading this may already know my background. For those of you who don’t, I grew up in Janesville, and my father worked at the GM Assembly Plant. So, when I graduated from high school, I naturally joined my father on the assembly line. After many years, I became more involved in my union, United Auto Workers Local 95.

Eventually, I was elected to serve as the president of my local. In 2004, I ran for and was elected to the State Assembly. I have been working hard to do both jobs for the past three years and have been blessed with wonderful co-workers and support staff who have helped me manage my time. However, in February, I decided that I would not seek a third term as president of Local 95 and instead focus all my energies on my seat in the State Assembly. The term for my union office expires next month.

I mention all this to explain that I know what it is like to be on the front lines fighting for our state’s economy. When I was elected as president of Local 95, we charted a new course for the Janesville Assembly Plant. Instead of continuing the old battles between labor and management, we partnered with management with the understanding that we were both in it together. Only through cooperation did either of us stand a chance of survival.

We’ve had many important victories over the last six years and survived several rounds of plant closings. However, recently, GM announced that it would be laying off 756 workers at our

plant in Janesville. GM’s decision had nothing to do with the workers. Simply, the very real threat of gas reaching $4 per gallon has crippled auto sales.

The ripple effect of this job loss could easily affect 5,000 additional jobs in the region. One of the sectors of the economy that may be hit particularly hard is the housing market. At a time when some property values are weakening, families could be forced by layoffs to quickly sell their homes. I am working with Governor Doyle and others to mitigate the impact of these job losses, but realistically I expect things to get worse before they turn around.

While I remain very optimistic about our long-term future, I believe that we are at an important crossroads and that the fate of the middle class hangs in the balance. On the political level, there are two general philosophies on what government should do in these times. On one side, we have those who say that we should do nothing and instead place all our faith in the free market. On the other extreme are those who think that the answer is increased regulation and taxes.

Sadly, there is often no voice for the middle path: cooperation. I know that this might make me sound like a wishy-washy idealist, but we need to rise to the level of statesmen and women, rather than mere politicians. The stakes are too high for us to be gridlocked over partisan differences. If labor and management can come together to save jobs, we (the Legislature) can come together and save our economy.

Representative Mike Sheridan lives in Janesville and represents the 44th Assembly District. Sheridan is the ranking Democrat on the Assembly Committee on Jobs & the Economy and was awarded the WBA “Friend of Housing Award” in 2008. X

expressed one very real fear concerning the passage of a homebuyer tax credit to members. Congressman Ryan was gener-ally supportive of the stand-alone concept of providing some type of homebuyer tax credit, but was fearful that this type of provision would merge with a number of other provisions to create a very large, very expensive bill.

If the homebuyer tax credit is rolled into a much larger package, it is likely that a number of more fiscally conserva-tive members of both parties would likely vote against the package. In addition, if it reached President Bush’s desk, he would likely veto the entire bill. Time will tell on the future of providing a tax credit to people to purchase a home and jumpstart the economy.

Thank you to all the WBA members who took time out of their busy sched-ules to travel to Washington, D.C. and attend the 2008 NAHB Legislative Conference. The grassroots lobbying of your elected officials on the federal and state level makes a big difference in advancing the legislative agendas of NAHB and WBA. X

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Wisconsin Badger Builder • July/August 2008 • www.wisbuild.orgWisconsin Badger Builder • July/August 2008 • www.wisbuild.org8

by Jennifer McDermitt

After 50 years in the construc-tion industry and equal years of builder association involvement,

you would think Bryce Styza would be planning for a well-deserved retirement. When you talk to Styza, however, you realize that this man has no plans to slow down — he doesn’t even want to think

about it. What you do find is a man who is not only passionate about what he does, but who is also constantly thinking about ways to grow, diversify and improve his business, especially in this current chal-lenging economic climate.

“This is about the fifth time I’ve been through this with the economy — it comes around about once a decade,”

said Styza. “This isn’t the worst, but it is certainly one of the more difficult ones.”

Styza says that during the first slow-down, he took to heart some words of advice from the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) — words that not only inspired his business philosophy, but also created an appreciation for knowledge gained through association membership.

Passion, Endurance and HumilityWaukesha builder/developer Bryce Styza of Harmony Homes Inc. remains passionate about the industry after five decades — with no plans for slowing down.

“NAHB said, ‘If you want to survive in this industry, you have to diversify your business.’ I decided right then and there that I was going to do that, and that has been the key to my success over the years,” noted Styza.

Styza’s wife, Anne, has been at his side for all the career highs and lows, and although it hasn’t always been easy being married to someone whose job is often a seven-day-a-week commitment, Anne is thankful to have a husband who is passionate about his career. “I think it would be terrible to be married to some-one who dislikes their job,” said Anne. “That’s never been a problem for Bryce. Even when times are tough, he doesn’t view things as obstacles — he sees them as problems that just need to be solved.”

Early Experience Sparks Lifetime Career

Styza’s passion for building goes back to age 10, when, during the 1940s, he and his brother assisted their father in building a 24-cabin resort in Hazelhurst, Wis. They cleared the land, sawed and planed the timber, and hammered every nail themselves. This early experience sparked Styza’s love of the construction industry, and, after leaving the service, he decided to make a career of it, starting Harmony Homes in 1958.

Styza’s enduring passion has certainly paid off with several successful separate business entities all related to the build-ing industry, including multi-family unit construction, real estate and develop-ment. Styza’s longtime receptionist, Jean Clark, says her boss has worked hard for his success. “A contractor came into the office once when the Styzas were on vacation and asked me if I was jealous that Bryce was in Europe while I had to stay here working,” recalled Clark. “I said, ‘Bryce gets up at 6 a.m. to check on his homes and make sure they are being built to his standards. This man has earned a vacation, and I don’t fault him for that!’”

Another one of Styza’s employees, property manager Sue Kroll, has been with the company for 32 years and can hardly discuss Styza without getting choked up. “Bryce is such a person of integrity. I started here in high school and planned to go into nursing, but his guid-

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Wisconsin Badger Builder • July/August 2008 • www.wisbuild.org 9Wisconsin Badger Builder • July/August 2008 • www.wisbuild.org

said Styza. “This isn’t the worst, but it is certainly one of the more difficult ones.”

Styza says that during the first slow-down, he took to heart some words of advice from the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) — words that not only inspired his business philosophy, but also created an appreciation for knowledge gained through association membership.

Passion, Endurance and HumilityWaukesha builder/developer Bryce Styza of Harmony Homes Inc. remains passionate about the industry after five decades — with no plans for slowing down.

“NAHB said, ‘If you want to survive in this industry, you have to diversify your business.’ I decided right then and there that I was going to do that, and that has been the key to my success over the years,” noted Styza.

Styza’s wife, Anne, has been at his side for all the career highs and lows, and although it hasn’t always been easy being married to someone whose job is often a seven-day-a-week commitment, Anne is thankful to have a husband who is passionate about his career. “I think it would be terrible to be married to some-one who dislikes their job,” said Anne. “That’s never been a problem for Bryce. Even when times are tough, he doesn’t view things as obstacles — he sees them as problems that just need to be solved.”

Early Experience Sparks Lifetime Career

Styza’s passion for building goes back to age 10, when, during the 1940s, he and his brother assisted their father in building a 24-cabin resort in Hazelhurst, Wis. They cleared the land, sawed and planed the timber, and hammered every nail themselves. This early experience sparked Styza’s love of the construction industry, and, after leaving the service, he decided to make a career of it, starting Harmony Homes in 1958.

Styza’s enduring passion has certainly paid off with several successful separate business entities all related to the build-ing industry, including multi-family unit construction, real estate and develop-ment. Styza’s longtime receptionist, Jean Clark, says her boss has worked hard for his success. “A contractor came into the office once when the Styzas were on vacation and asked me if I was jealous that Bryce was in Europe while I had to stay here working,” recalled Clark. “I said, ‘Bryce gets up at 6 a.m. to check on his homes and make sure they are being built to his standards. This man has earned a vacation, and I don’t fault him for that!’”

Another one of Styza’s employees, property manager Sue Kroll, has been with the company for 32 years and can hardly discuss Styza without getting choked up. “Bryce is such a person of integrity. I started here in high school and planned to go into nursing, but his guid-

ance and leadership style have kept me here all these years,” she said.

You Can Never Be Too Involved

Styza’s passion for his business extends to his membership in the Wisconsin Builder’s Association® (WBA), where Styza operates by the philosophy that “you can never be too involved in the things that matter.” Styza joined his local

association, the Metropolitan Builders Association, soon after starting his busi-ness when he received an invitation to join from a fellow member. A year later, Styza received a renewal bill, and he had to evaluate the worth of his membership.

“I said to myself, ‘Do I really want to continue with this?’ The problem was, I didn’t really get involved that first year, so I didn’t get much out of it,” admitted Styza. He challenged himself to get more involved over the next year to see if it

Continued on page 11

Badger 0807.indd 9 6/6/08 11:13:18 AM

Wisconsin Badger Builder • July/August 2008 • www.wisbuild.org10 Wisconsin Badger Builder • July/August 2008 • www.wisbuild.org10

would pay off, and after running for an office, losing the elec-tion, and eventually taking office after another member had to bow out, Styza recognized the value of association involvement.

“It’s like anything; you get out of it what you put in,” said Styza. “Over the years, I’ve put a lot into it, and I can tell you that the return has been amazing.”

To say that Styza has put a lot into the association is an under-statement. During the past 50 years, Styza has held the following offices at the local, state and national levels:

• President (Metropolitan BA)• President (WBA)• National Representative (WBA)• Area 10 Vice President (NAHB)• Executive Council Member (NAHB)• PAC Trustee since 1982• Life Director (Metropolitan BA, WBA, NAHB)In addition, Styza has been named Builder of the Year both

by the Metropolitan BA and the WBA. Styza is also active in his community, serving as the current president of the village in which he resides, and he served for 16 years on the State Building Commission.

“Bryce was instrumental in helping us raise funds and materi-als for our new building, and he has always been extremely phil-anthropic in this community,” said Chellee Siewert, executive officer of the Metropolitan BA. “He is just an amazing person all around, and his knowledge and participation after 50 years in the industry is invaluable to this association.”

Working for a Better TomorrowAlthough Styza likes to say he lives day to day, he does put a

lot of thought — and effort — into supporting the future of the industry. Styza was fundamental in the creation of the Wisconsin Builders Association Foundation, a 501(c)(3) non-profit, phil-anthropic organization dedicated to the home building indus-try. Today, Styza serves as president of the Foundation, which provides scholarships, funding and grants all aimed at furthering the building industry. (Read more about the WBA Foundation on page 12.)

In partnership with the Metropolitan BA, the Foundation is currently supporting the construction of the Wisconsin Trend Home™ in Waukesha. The objective of the project is to build an environmentally friendly home with the technologies and features that should be prevalent in homes by the year 2020. The primary goal is to demonstrate to both the construction industry and the public that these technologies can readily be incorpo-rated into new and existing homes today.

In addition to the very important educational aspect of this home, there is also a charitable benefit. The proceeds from the sale of the home will be utilized to provide a $200,000 grant to La Casa De Esperenza. La Casa’s mission is to provide oppor-tunities for low-income individuals to achieve full social and economic participation in society, with emphasis on the Hispanic population. The remainder of the proceeds will go to the WBA Foundation, in a scholarship fund to attract high quality students to a career in the building trade.

StyzAContinued from page 9

JUNE 21ST & OCTOBER 17TH & 18TH

A BETTER PLACE TO BUY & SELL!

Directions: Wausau, WI on I-39 take exit 181 west to Old Hwy 51. Drive north 1 mile, auction site on left.

www.nitkeauctions.com 715.362.6162

Terms: Check with Bank Guarantee, Drives License Required 10% Buyer’s Fee for each item $2000 or less. No one under 18 permitted on sale site. All who enter must register. Wisconsin Registered Auction Company #59

NITKE SALES, INC. P.O. Box 1639 , Rhinelander, WI 54501

Consignments Wanted!

CALL IN YOUR ITEMS TODAY!

Fenced & Secured Yard!Early Deliveries!

Badger 0807.indd 10 6/6/08 11:13:19 AM


Insurance Coveragefor the ResidentialBuilding Industry

Continental Western Group and Reynolds & Reynolds join forces to offer WBA members a GROUP DIVIDEND PROPERTY & CASUALTY Insurance Program, including:

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.

®

would pay off, and after running for an office, losing the elec-tion, and eventually taking office after another member had to bow out, Styza recognized the value of association involvement.

“It’s like anything; you get out of it what you put in,” said Styza. “Over the years, I’ve put a lot into it, and I can tell you that the return has been amazing.”

To say that Styza has put a lot into the association is an under-statement. During the past 50 years, Styza has held the following offices at the local, state and national levels:

• President(MetropolitanBA)• President(WBA)• NationalRepresentative(WBA)• Area10VicePresident(NAHB)• ExecutiveCouncilMember(NAHB)• PACTrusteesince1982• LifeDirector(MetropolitanBA,WBA,NAHB)In addition, Styza has been named Builder of the Year both

bytheMetropolitanBAandtheWBA.Styzaisalsoactiveinhis community, serving as the current president of the village in which he resides, and he served for 16 years on the State Building Commission.

“Bryce was instrumental in helping us raise funds and materi-als for our new building, and he has always been extremely phil-anthropic in this community,” said Chellee Siewert, executive officeroftheMetropolitanBA.“Heisjustanamazingpersonallaround, and his knowledge and participation after 50 years in the industry is invaluable to this association.”

Working for a Better TomorrowAlthough Styza likes to say he lives day to day, he does put a

lot of thought — and effort — into supporting the future of the industry. Styza was fundamental in the creation of the Wisconsin Builders Association Foundation, a 501(c)(3) non-profit, phil-anthropic organization dedicated to the home building indus-try. Today, Styza serves as president of the Foundation, which provides scholarships, funding and grants all aimed at furthering thebuildingindustry.(ReadmoreabouttheWBAFoundationonpage 12.)

InpartnershipwiththeMetropolitanBA,theFoundationiscurrently supporting the construction of the Wisconsin Trend Home™ in Waukesha. The objective of the project is to build an environmentally friendly home with the technologies and features that should be prevalent in homes by the year 2020. The primary goal is to demonstrate to both the construction industry and the public that these technologies can readily be incorpo-rated into new and existing homes today.

In addition to the very important educational aspect of this home, there is also a charitable benefit. The proceeds from the sale of the home will be utilized to provide a $200,000 grant to LaCasaDeEsperenza.LaCasa’smissionistoprovideoppor-tunities for low-income individuals to achieve full social and economic participation in society, with emphasis on the Hispanic population. The remainder of the proceeds will go to the WBA Foundation, in a scholarship fund to attract high quality students to a career in the building trade.

Styza sees the Hispanic population as a strong future work-force for the Wisconsin construction industry. He hopes that other local associations will use the Foundation’s work on the Trend Home™ as a model to not only feature the latest building materials and techniques, but also raise funds for similar organi-zations around the state.

No Time to Slow DownWith his business ventures, association involvement and

community commitments, Styza simply doesn’t have time to slow down, but that’s o.k. with wife Anne, because she couldn’t imagine it any other way. “He wouldn’t be happy if he was retired, and who wants an unhappy spouse around the house?” she joked. X

StyzAContinued from page 9

JUNE 21ST & OCTOBER 17TH & 18TH

A BETTER PLACE TO BUY & SELL!

Directions: Wausau, WI on I-39 take exit 181 west to Old Hwy 51. Drive north 1 mile, auction site on left.

www.nitkeauctions.com 715.362.6162

Terms: Check with Bank Guarantee, Drives License Required 10% Buyer’s Fee for each item $2000 or less. No one under 18 permitted on sale site. All who enter must register. Wisconsin Registered Auction Company #59

NITKE SALES, INC. P.O. Box 1639 , Rhinelander, WI 54501

Consignments Wanted!

CALL IN YOUR ITEMS TODAY!

Fenced & Secured Yard!Early Deliveries!

Badger 0807.indd 11 6/9/08 12:40:43 PM

Wisconsin Badger Builder • July/August 2008 • www.wisbuild.org

by Christine Shaefer, Executive Vice President, Valley Home Builders Association, and Trustee, Wisconsin Builders Foundation

Building industry professionals have a long tradition of providing community support — whether through their companies, their associations or their families. Wisconsin

Builders Association® (WBA) members regularly contribute to churches, schools, the United Way, the American Red Cross, the arts, animal and housing organizations, and countless other charities. From disaster relief efforts to student scholarships, the generosity of those in the building industry is something of which we should all be proud.

Nearly a decade ago, the Wisconsin Builders Foundation was formed, guided by the steady and strong vision of its first bene-factor, Bryce Styza, owner of Harmony Homes in Waukesha, Wis. Created as a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit charitable organiza-tion, the WBA Foundation compliments the 501(c)(6) trade organization roots utilized by WBA and local home builders associations across Wisconsin. The WBA Foundation focuses the efforts of member companies, individual members and local associations to maximize financial aid to fund education, research and charitable aid efforts.

Why a Foundation?WBA and its affiliated local associations are not charitable

organizations. Yes, they are not-for-profit companies, but they are not charities as defined by the Internal Revenue Service. As a result, contributions to a local’s scholarship program, or material donations to a local’s community service project cannot be claimed as a charitable tax deduction. While most members contribute for the good of the cause, receiving tax deductions is an added benefit that shouldn’t be ignored.

By creating the WBA Foundation, Styza hoped that members would be even more generous with their contributions, as those gifts would go to a recognized charitable group. He understood that the cost to set up a Foundation, and the resources to success-fully manage one, would not be easily borne by a local associa-tion, so it made sense to create a statewide Foundation. Through Bryce’s generous initial gift, all expenses associated with the formation of the Foundation were covered.

Through the WBA Foundation, individual members, their families, and their companies can make tax-deductible dona-tions. Significant gifts can be used to create specific funds, and local associations have been encouraged to open Donor Advised Funds, which have the positive aspects of a private foundation without the annual administrative concerns or expense.

Who Benefits from the Foundation?At the primary level, donors to the Foundation benefit not only

from a tax deduction but also by adding their contributions to others, which when combined, can make a significant and lasting impact. However, the true beneficiaries of the WBA Foundation are those who receive assistance from it.

To date, the WBA Foundation has provided scholarships, tool grants, charitable grants, funded service projects, assisted mili-tary troops with housing needs, sent relief to disaster victims and more. The WBA Foundation Education Fund targets its giving to assist members and local associations for professional educa-tion endeavors. In addition, the Foundation’s many Donor Funds focus their contributions to benefit specific local needs.

Where Does the Foundation Get Its Money?

From you! This can be done by making memorial or holiday gifts in honor of friends and family, by donating unrestricted funds and by giving through local association funds of the Foundation. In addition, all proceeds from the American TV/Kennedy-Hahn raffle tickets go to the WBA Education Fund. Members can also include the WBA Foundation in their personal estate planning, and members’ families and companies can create their own funds within the Foundation.

For example, WBA’s past presidents have created a Foundation Fund, and memorial funds have been formed within the Foundation. Outright gifts (cash, stocks, bonds, real estate, personal property) are the most common and help the Foundation carry out its mission. Deferred gifts (bequests, life insurance, charitable remainder trusts) will help the Foundation continue its mission well into the future.

Wisconsin Badger Builder • July/August 2008 • www.wisbuild.org12

Giving BackThe Wisconsin Builders Foundation Trustees salute Bryce

Styza for his 50 years of WBA membership, and we thank him for giving back to the industry through his tireless efforts to promote the Foundation. We invite you to give back some of the good fortune the home building industry has given to you, by contributing to the Foundation. Your generosity will help

A Foundation of

GIVInG

Bryce StyzaTrustee PresidentHarmony Homes Inc.Waukesha, WI Metro BA

Leon ChurchTrustee Vice PresidentSweetwood Builders Inc.Appleton, WI Valley HBA

Mark EtrheimTrustee TreasurerMastercraft Homes Inc.La Crosse, WI La Crosse Area BA

Christine ShaeferTrustee SecretaryExecutive Officer Appleton, WIValley HBA

Ron DerrickTrusteeDerrick Corporation New Richmond, WISt. Croix Valley HBA

WBA Foundation Board of Trustees

Badger 0807.indd 12 6/6/08 11:13:22 AM

Wisconsin Badger Builder • July/August 2008 • www.wisbuild.org 13

Why a Foundation?WBA and its affiliated local associations are not charitable

organizations. Yes, they are not-for-profit companies, but they arenotcharitiesasdefinedbytheInternalRevenueService.As a result, contributions to a local’s scholarship program, or material donations to a local’s community service project cannot be claimed as a charitable tax deduction. While most members contribute for the good of the cause, receiving tax deductions is an added benefit that shouldn’t be ignored.

By creating the WBA Foundation, Styza hoped that members would be even more generous with their contributions, as those gifts would go to a recognized charitable group. He understood that the cost to set up a Foundation, and the resources to success-fully manage one, would not be easily borne by a local associa-tion, so it made sense to create a statewide Foundation. Through Bryce’s generous initial gift, all expenses associated with the formation of the Foundation were covered.

Through the WBA Foundation, individual members, their families, and their companies can make tax-deductible dona-tions. Significant gifts can be used to create specific funds, and local associations have been encouraged to open Donor Advised Funds, which have the positive aspects of a private foundation without the annual administrative concerns or expense.

Who Benefits from the Foundation?At the primary level, donors to the Foundation benefit not only

from a tax deduction but also by adding their contributions to others, which when combined, can make a significant and lasting impact. However, the true beneficiaries of the WBA Foundation are those who receive assistance from it.

To date, the WBA Foundation has provided scholarships, tool grants, charitable grants, funded service projects, assisted mili-tary troops with housing needs, sent relief to disaster victims and more. The WBA Foundation Education Fund targets its giving to assist members and local associations for professional educa-tion endeavors. In addition, the Foundation’s many Donor Funds focus their contributions to benefit specific local needs.

Where Does the Foundation Get Its Money?

From you! This can be done by making memorial or holiday gifts in honor of friends and family, by donating unrestricted funds and by giving through local association funds of the Foundation.Inaddition,allproceedsfromtheAmericanTV/Kennedy-Hahn raffle tickets go to the WBA Education Fund. MemberscanalsoincludetheWBAFoundationintheirpersonalestate planning, and members’ families and companies can create their own funds within the Foundation.

For example, WBA’s past presidents have created a Foundation Fund, and memorial funds have been formed within the Foundation. Outright gifts (cash, stocks, bonds, real estate, personal property) are the most common and help the Foundation carry out its mission. Deferred gifts (bequests, life insurance, charitable remainder trusts) will help the Foundation continue its mission well into the future.


Giving BackThe Wisconsin Builders Foundation Trustees salute Bryce

Styza for his 50 years of WBA membership, and we thank him for giving back to the industry through his tireless efforts to promote the Foundation. We invite you to give back some of the good fortune the home building industry has given to you, by contributing to the Foundation. Your generosity will help

Bryce StyzaTrustee PresidentHarmony Homes Inc.Waukesha, WI Metro BA

Leon ChurchTrustee Vice PresidentSweetwood Builders Inc.Appleton, WI Valley HBA

Mark EtrheimTrustee TreasurerMastercraft Homes Inc.La Crosse, WI La Crosse Area BA

Christine ShaeferTrustee SecretaryExecutive Officer Appleton, WIValley HBA

Ron DerrickTrusteeDerrick Corporation New Richmond, WISt. Croix Valley HBA

Neil HaselwanderTrusteeHaselwander Bros. Inc.Eau Claire, WIChippewa Valley HBA

Tom MasonTrusteeWausau/Sterling HomesWausau, WI Metro BA

Greg SchafferTrusteeAmerican TV & ApplianceMadison, WIMadison Area BA

Dan SchneiderTrusteeSchneider & Schneider ConstructionNew Holstein, WI Mid Shores HBA

WBA Foundation Board of Trustees


Badger 0807.indd 13 6/9/08 12:40:44 PM


Local Happenings

Chippewa Valley HBABuffalo/Pepin Member Appreciation (l to r): Durand Mayor Gerald Bauer, Mondovi City Administrator Dan Lauersdorf, Realtors Assn. of NW Wisconsin Government Affairs Director Bruce King, Chippewa Valley Home Builders Association Executive Vice President Lance Clark, Representative Barbara Gronemus and CVHBA Government Affairs Committee Chair Monica Sommerfeldt-Lewis of Archer Lion, Inc.

St. Croix Valley HBASt. Croix HBA’s Silent Auction was a huge success! Rep. John Murtha and Senator Harsdorf sparked the crowd to get competitive in their bidding.

Madison Area BAMABA members donated their time and materials to “Hammer with a Heart” to improve a home on Madison’s eastside on May 3, 2008. Special thanks go out to Project Managers Al Terry (Stealth Security LLC) and Mark Elliott (Elliot Construction Inc.).

HBA of Fond du Lac & Dodge CountiesChairperson Mike Wirtz and Ed Braun speak about the “Homes of our Own” program sponsored by the HBA of Fond du Lac and Dodge Counties and the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) in which over 1,280 students and 34 Fond du Lac and Dodge County schools participated.

Brown County HBA BCHBA Education/Membership Committee Chair Jill Hendricks of Landmark Real Estate & Development Inc. presented a Camel Hair Blazer to Harry Macco, Hillcrest Homes and Hillcrest Lumber, Inc. for earning 750 Spike credits.

With proceeds from their annual auction, the Brown County Home Builders Association (BCHBA) donated $15,000 to three local organizations: The New Community Shelter, Ribbon of Hope and Syble Hopp School.

Headwaters BAThis spring, the Headwaters Builders Association sponsored its first 12-hour Dwelling Contractor Qualifier initial training course, held at Northland Pines High School in Eagle River. The capacity-filled class had 59 builders and contractors (both members and nonmembers) in attendance.

Sheboygan County HBAKurt Beckers was the 2008 winner of the first annual Jim Rooker Memorial Scholarship Program, being presented by SCHBA President Kate Holfeltz of Community Bank & Trust and Education Committee Chair Harvey Specht from Macco’s Floor Covering. Jim Rooker was an elderly gentlemen SCHBA helped with renovations to his home. Rooker passed away last year and kindly remembered the association in his will in hopes that we would pass the money on to assist young people entering the construction trades.

Badger 0807.indd 14 6/6/08 11:13:27 AM


Chippewa Valley HBABuffalo/Pepin Member Appreciation (l to r): Durand Mayor Gerald Bauer, Mondovi City Administrator Dan Lauersdorf, Realtors Assn. of NW Wisconsin Government Affairs Director Bruce King, Chippewa Valley Home Builders Association Executive Vice President Lance Clark, Representative Barbara Gronemus and CVHBA Government Affairs Committee Chair Monica Sommerfeldt-Lewis of Archer Lion, Inc.

St. Croix Valley HBASt. Croix HBA’s Silent Auction was a huge success! Rep. John Murtha and Senator Harsdorf sparked the crowd to get competitive in their bidding.

Headwaters BAThis spring, the Headwaters Builders Association sponsored its first 12-hour Dwelling Contractor Qualifier initial training course, held at Northland Pines High School in Eagle River. The capacity-filled class had 59 builders and contractors (both members and nonmembers) in attendance.

Golden Sands HBAOn Arbor Day, GSHBA members donated an 8-foot-tall white pine and helped third-grade students plant 150 seedlings in a local Stevens Point park.

Sheboygan County HBAKurt Beckers was the 2008 winner of the first annual Jim Rooker Memorial Scholarship Program, being presented by SCHBA President Kate Holfeltz of Community Bank & Trust and Education Committee Chair Harvey Specht from Macco’s Floor Covering. Jim Rooker was an elderly gentlemen SCHBA helped with renovations to his home. Rooker passed away last year and kindly remembered the association in his will in hopes that we would pass the money on to assist young people entering the construction trades.

the Foundation continue to flourish and support its education, research and charitable aid efforts.

To learn more about the WBA Foundation and how you can contribute, visit www.wisbuild.org or contact Annie Rubens, WBA Foundation staff liaison, at [email protected] or (800) 285-9066 ext. 19. X

GIVInGContinued from page 13

Badger 0807.indd 15 6/6/08 11:13:28 AM


Many Plans to Choose FromMember

ADVAntAGE

by Karl Johnson WBA Insurance Services Agency Manager

As a member of the Wisconsin Builders Association® (WBA), you are able to access a variety

of quality insurance programs exclusive to members of the WBA. WBA Insurance Services, in conjunction with WPS Health Insurance, Arise Health Care, New York Life and Continental Western Group, provides these plans to you, your family and your employees.

WBA Insurance Services is a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Wisconsin Builders Association® created more than 15 years ago to not only provide quality insurance programs to the members of the WBA, but also to provide the only form of non-dues revenue for the WBA. WBA Insurance Services was created by members and is overseen by a board of directors, also made up of members. We truly are your insurance agency.

Here are some of the benefits available to you as a member.

Exclusive Benefits Design and Benefits

WPS Preferred Advantage Plus is a comprehensive health insurance program offered to WBA members and their employees. This program offers three plan options, so you can select a plan that’s a perfect fit for your business. Choose from Builders Enhanced PPO, Builders Value PPO, or Builders HSA-Qualified high deductible health plan. Some additional exclusive benefits are:

• Coverage available to groups of one or more

• Optional on-the-job coverage (work-ers’ compensation exemption health coverage)

• Retiree benefits to age 65• Discount programs for vision care,

health clubs and more

Freedom to Visit any Provider

WPS Preferred Advantage Plus provides affordable, convenient access to physicians and health care facilities throughout Wisconsin. WPS offers cost-effective regional and local networks as well as comprehensive statewide cover-age. All of their networks feature flexible in-network and out-of-network benefits with no referrals. Simply choose the right network to suit your needs and budget.

Your Benefits Delivered Minus the Hassle

When considering your health insur-ance options, more often than not price is the number one factor. After look-ing at price, customer service after you purchase a plan is just as important. WPS goes the extra mile to make using your health insurance a seamless experience. Their streamlined claims processing system handles claims quickly and effi-ciently, enhancing cost-effectiveness and accuracy. WPS has a claim accuracy rate of 99.8 percent. WPS also has a highly trained, caring Member Services staff right here in Wisconsin to answer any questions you or your employees may have about your health plan.

Control Cost with ConsumerSelect

Combine ConsumerSelect with your WBA plan and discover a way to control health plan costs while still offering your employees meaningful choices. We work with you to design an affordable base plan. Your employees can then either choose the base plan, or buy up to a richer plan design. There are opportuni-ties to choose up to four different plans.

Member Health Center

Access extensive online health and wellness resources designed to help improve outcomes through efficient care. Information on more then 3,200 health topics helps members better understand medical conditions and treatment options.

Since 1946, the mission of WPS has been to provide affordable, comprehen-sive health coverage for our friends and neighbors right here in Wisconsin. WPS is a strong, stable company you can trust to respond to the unique health insurance needs of your business.

If you or your company is look-ing to save money on your insurance premiums, give your association plans serious consideration.

To find out what agents in your area are committed partners of WBA Insurance Services or to hear more about what WBA Insurance Services has to offer, visit our Web site, www.wbainsuranceservices.org, or contact the office of WBA Insurance Services: Karl Johnson, agency manager at (888) 678-3015 ext. 23, or Megan Taylor, sales associate at ext. 24. X

Do You Follow The Home Improvement Practices Act: ATCP 110?

As the new construction of homes has slowed, many builders in the state of Wisconsin have begun

taking on remodeling jobs. The WBA Remodelers Council wants to make sure that members of the Wisconsin Builders Association® are aware of the stringent home improvement laws in the state of Wisconsin known as The Home Improvement Practices Act: ATCP 110.

Many remodeling contractors have struggled for years to comply with the paperwork-intensive ATCP 110 regulations. These rules and regulations seem to have many loopholes and traps for trustworthy contractors. ATCP 110 requires carefully worded contracts, specific and inclusive change orders, and many other protections for the consumer. ATCP 110 covers misrep-resentation, fraud, delays, non-payment and other violations of the business relationship between the contractor and the customer.

Many consumers and lawyers are becoming aware of these stringent home improvement laws and the accompany-ing loopholes and traps. These consumers and lawyers are poised to pounce on the possible financial incentives available when suing a contractor for ATCP 110 violations. Consumers can receive double damages as well as the attorneys’ fees, all paid for by the contractor. Because of these financial incentives, consumers and lawyers are scrutinizing contracts, change orders, and product information to find just one tiny wrong statement that would open the door to take their contractor to court.

by Megan Taylor, WBA Remodeler’s Council staff liasion

Badger 0807.indd 16 6/6/08 11:13:29 AM


Control Cost with ConsumerSelect

Combine ConsumerSelect with your WBA plan and discover a way to control health plan costs while still offering your employees meaningful choices. We work with you to design an affordable base plan. Your employees can then either choose the base plan, or buy up to a richer plan design. There are opportuni-ties to choose up to four different plans.

Member Health Center

Access extensive online health and wellness resources designed to help improve outcomes through efficient care. Information on more then 3,200 health topics helps members better understand medical conditions and treatment options.

Since 1946, the mission of WPS has been to provide affordable, comprehen-sive health coverage for our friends and neighbors right here in Wisconsin. WPS is a strong, stable company you can trust to respond to the unique health insurance needs of your business.

If you or your company is look-ing to save money on your insurance premiums, give your association plans serious consideration.

To find out what agents in your area are committed partners of WBA Insurance Services or to hear more about what WBA Insurance Services has to offer, visit our Web site, www.wbainsuranceservices.org, or contact the office of WBA Insurance Services: Karl Johnson, agency manager at (888) 678-3015 ext. 23, or Megan Taylor, sales associate at ext. 24. X

Do You Follow The Home Improvement Practices Act: ATCP 110?

As the new construction of homes has slowed, many builders in the state of Wisconsin have begun

taking on remodeling jobs. The WBA Remodelers Council wants to make sure that members of the Wisconsin Builders Association® are aware of the stringent home improvement laws in the state of Wisconsin known as The Home Improvement Practices Act: ATCP 110.

Many remodeling contractors have struggled for years to comply with the paperwork-intensive ATCP 110 regulations. These rules and regulations seem to have many loopholes and traps for trustworthy contractors. ATCP 110 requires carefully worded contracts, specific and inclusive change orders, and many other protections for the consumer. ATCP 110 covers misrep-resentation, fraud, delays, non-payment and other violations of the business relationship between the contractor and the customer.

Many consumers and lawyers are becoming aware of these stringent home improvement laws and the accompany-ing loopholes and traps. These consumers and lawyers are poised to pounce on the possible financial incentives available when suing a contractor for ATCP 110 violations. Consumers can receive double damages as well as the attorneys’ fees, all paid for by the contractor. Because of these financial incentives, consumers and lawyers are scrutinizing contracts, change orders, and product information to find just one tiny wrong statement that would open the door to take their contractor to court.

What Is The Home Improvement Practices Act: ATCP 110?

These are laws that specify prohibited trade practices in the home improve-ment industry, identify the types of home improvement agreements that are to be in writing, set forth required terms and conditions for written home improvement contracts, and describe the parties’ rights and obligations upon contract cancellation.

Who Does the Law Affect?

The Home Improvement Practices Act: ATCP 110 affects anyone who is described in Wisconsin Administrative Code § ACTP 110.01(2) as “remodeling, altering, repairing, painting, or modern-izing non-commercial property or the marketing of additions thereto … ” This law does not apply to contractors working on new homes or commercial buildings.

What Type of Work Does the Law Cover?

Excerpts from the Home Improvement Practices Act ATCP 110.01(2) define “Home Improvement” as including, but not limited to: “ … driveways, sidewalks, swimming pools, terraces, patios, landscaping, fences, porches, garages, basements and base-ment waterproofing, fire protection devices, heating and air conditioning equipment, water softeners, heaters and purifiers, wall-to-wall carpeting or attached or inlaid floor coverings, and other changes, repairs or improvements made in or on, attached to or forming a part of the residential or non-commer-cial property … ”

What Is Required to Be in a Remodeling Contract?

Excerpts from the Home Improvement Practices Act ATCP 110.03 state that signed, written contracts must include the following details “ … the seller’s name and address; a description of the work to be done and principal products and materials to be used or installed; the total price of the contract to be paid by the buyer, including all finance charges; the dates or time period on or within which the work is to begin and be completed; a description of any mortgage or security interest to be taken in connection with the financing or sale of the home improve-ment; a statement of any guarantee or warranty with respect to any products, materials, labor or services and identifica-tion of any other document which is to be incorporated in the contract … ”

What Are the Penalties?

Monetary damages can be awarded to any buyer who suffers pecuniary loss. As a result, the buyer can sue for damages and, if successful, could recover twice the amount of any pecuniary loss plus attorney fees.

The Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection Investigation and Enforcement has the authority to issue orders restraining home improve-ment contractors from engaging in unfair practices and, conversely, requiring them to engage in fair practices.

Criminal prosecution and civil forfei-tures can occur as well. Violators may be fined between $25 and $5,000, impris-oned in the county jail for up to one year, or both. An assessment of civil forfeiture of between $100 and $10,000 for each violation is possible as well.

by Megan Taylor, WBA Remodeler’s Council staff liasion

Beware of Getting Nailed!


Badger 0807.indd 17 6/6/08 11:13:29 AM

Wisconsin Badger Builder • July/August 2008 • www.wisbuild.orgWisconsin Badger Builder • July/August 2008 • www.wisbuild.org18

LocaL assocIaTIon Parade oF HoMes HoMe sHoW GoLF ouTInG InsTaLLaTIon BBWGeneraL

MeMBersHIP MeeTInG

Brown CountyShowcase of New Homes Fall 2008 - Sept. 20-21 & 25-28, Spring 2009 - March 7-8 & 12-15

Jan. 15-18, 2009 July 9, 2008 Dec. 4, 2008, SC Grand Banquet & Convention

Golf Event - Sept. 30, 2008

2nd Tues., Sept., Oct., Nov.

Central Wisconsin Sept. 5-8 2008 2009 TBD July 11, 2008 Nov. 20, 2008 2008 TBD 2008 TBD

Chippewa Valley June 6-24, 2009 Home & Garden Show - Feb 20-22, 2009

July 10, 2008 Oct. 14, 2008, The Plaza Sept. 9, 2008, Florian Gardens


Door County 2009 TBD 2009 TBD Sept. 2008 2008 TBD –––– 2nd Thurs.

Fond du Lac & Dodge Counties July 18-27, 2008 March 27-29, 2009 Aug. 8, 2008 Sept. 17, 2008 –––– 3rd Wed., no July, Aug.

Golden Sands June 6-9, 2008 Home Show - Feb. 28 & March 1, 2009, Holiday Inn and Convention Center

July 15, 2008Sept. 16, 2008 7:00 pm, Sky Club, Plover

2008 TBD 3rd Tues., no Aug.

Headwaters –––– ––––Sept. 5, 2008, Edgewaters Golf Course, Tomahawk

Sept. 2008 –––– 2nd Tues., Wed., Thurs; no June, July, Aug.

Heart of the North Sept. 20-21, 27-28, 2008 2009 TBD July 16, 2008 Nov. 15, 2008 –––– 2nd Thurs.

La Crosse Area June 14, 15 & 18-22, 2008 March 13-15, 2009 July 16, 2008 Sept. 16, 2008 July 16, 2008 3rd Tues., no June, July, Dec.

Lakeland July 26-27 & Aug. 2-3 2009 TBD June 26, 2008 Dec. 12, 2008, 6:00 pm, Evergreen Golf Course 2008 TBD 3rd Wed., no June,

July, Aug.

Madison Area June 7-22, 2008 March 6-8, 2009 July 19, 2008, Yamaha Golf Course with pig roast

Dec. 8, 2008, Concourse Hotel

Silent Auction - Oct. 2008 1st Mon., Sept., Nov.

Manitowoc County June 19-22, 2008 2009 TBD Aug. 6, 2008Dec. 3, 2008, Knox’s Silver Valley Banquet Hall

Aug. 21, 2008 4th Thurs., no June, July, Nov., Dec.

Metropolitan Aug. 16, 2008, Sept. 7, 2008 Jan. 8-11, 2009 June 16, 2008 Dec. 4, 2008, Harley-Davidson Museum –––– October TBD

Mid-Shores Oct. 2-5, 2008 –––– ––––Dec. 5, 2008, Milhome Super Club, Install & Holiday Party, Kiel, WI

Live Auction - Dec. 5, 2008

2nd Tues., no June, July, Aug.

Mid-Wisconsin –––– Feb. 6-9, 2009 May 14, 2008, Devil’s Head Resort

Sept. 9, 2008 - Marty’s Steakhouse, Voyageur Inn, Reedsburg

October 14, 2008 - The New Monks, Wisconsin Dells, Silent Auction

2nd Tues., no July or Aug.

Northland Area June 7, 2008 –––– Aug. 2008 Nov. 4, 2008 Aug. 2008 1st and 3rd Tues.

Racine-Kenosha Sept. 6-7, 10, 12-14, 2008 –––– June 12, 2008 Dec. 11, 2008 2008 TBD 3rd Wed., no June or Dec.

Sheboygan County Sept. 5-7, 12-14, 2008 2009 TBD June 18, 2008 Sept. 24, 2008 2009 TBD 3rd Wed., no June, July, Aug.

South Central Wisconsin Sept. 6-7, 10, 12-14, 2008 Feb. 27-28, Mar 1, 2009,

Holiday Inn Express

June 19, 2008, Koshkonong Mounds, Noon, shotgun start

Dec. 9, 2008Silent Auction - Oct. 28, 2008 4th Tues., no GMMs in

June, July or Aug.

South Western Wisconsin 2009 TBD 2009 TBD 2008 TBD 2008 TBD 2008 TBD 2008 TBD

St. Croix Valley Fall Tour of Homes - Sept. 6-7, 13-14, 20-21 & 27-28, 2008

Home & Remodeling Show - March 14-15, 2009, Hudson Sports & Civic Center

July 21, 2008Dec. 16, 2008, R & D Banquet Hall, New Richmond

2008 TBD

June 24 - Family Picnic, Aug. 14 - Boat Cruise, Sept. 23, Oct. 21, Dec. 16

Valley Condos - June 2008, Summer Parade - Aug. 2008 2009 TBD July 10, 2008 &

August 2008 Sept. 4, 2008 2008 TBDFirst Tues., no June, July, Aug., Dec. is Holiday Party

Wausau Area June 17-22, 2008 2009 TBD June 27, 2008 Oct. 16, 2008 2008 TBD 3rd Thurs., no June, July, Aug.

Winnebago 2009 TBD 2009 TBDJune 24, 2008, Lake Breeze Golf Course, Winneconne, 11:00 am

Sept. 10, 2008, Robbins Restaurant 6:30 pm 2008 TBD 2nd Wed., no June,

July, Aug.

Wolf River –––– 2009 TBD August 12, 2008 Oct. 14, 2008 –––– 2nd Tues.

LocaL assocIaTIon LocaL Board MeeTInG oTHer eVenTs educaTIon

Brown County 1st Wed. Sporting Clays - Oct. 9, 2008 Annual Seminar Series

Central Wisconsin 2nd Tues. Holiday Party - TBD ––––

Chippewa Valley 4th Tues. every other month Holiday Party - Dec. 5, The Plaza See CVHBA calendar at www.cvhomebuilders.com

Door County 1st Wed. 2008 TBD ––––

Fond du Lac & Dodge Counties 1st Tues., no July Relay for Life - Aug. 1, Pheasant Hunt - Oct. 4 ––––

Golden Sands 3rd Tues. Holiday Party - Dec. 16, 2008 ––––

Headwaters 2nd Tues., Wed., Thurs., before GMM Whitetails Unlimited Banquet - 2008 TBD Continuing Ed offered during some GMM’s

Heart of the North 1st Thurs. Holiday Party - Nov. 15, 2008 ––––

La Crosse Area 3rd Tues. 2008 Auction - Sept. 13, Holiday Party - Dec. 5 Lunch ‘n Learn - Thurs. Feb., April, Aug., Oct. Builder Break-fasts - Last Thurs. Jan., March, May, Sept.

Lakeland 2nd Wed., no Aug. –––– Lunch ‘n Learn: Last Tues. of month

Madison Area 3rd Wed. Parade of Condos - July 26-Aug. 3 2008 April 30, 2008 - Guide to Good Truss Practices, 6 Dwelling Contractor Qualifier credits

Manitowoc County 2nd Thurs. Sporting Clays - Sept. 10, 2008 Awake to Learn seminars the 2nd Wed. of month

Metropolitan 2nd Wed., no Aug. Commerce Approved 12-Hour Series offered in June: Part I - June 5, Part II - June 12, Part III - June 19 $150 HBA members/$225 non-members

Commerce Approved 12-Hour Course DVD available to HBA members for $150/non-members for $225 at MBAonline.org. We are also offering NAHB CAPS classes June 10, 17, & 24, 2008.

Mid-Shores 2nd Tues. Trap Shoot - Sept. 10, 2008 ––––

Mid-Wisconsin 3rd Tues. –––– ––––

Northland Area 3rd Wed. –––– On-Site UDC Training - March 25, 2008

Racine-Kenosha 1st Wed. 2008 TBD Monthly

Sheboygan County 1st Tues., no July 2008 TBD Monthly except June, July, Aug.

South Central Wisconsin 2nd Tues. 2008 TBD 2008 TBD

South Western Wisconsin 2008 TBD 2008 TBD 2008 TBD

St. Croix Valley Bi-monthly, one week before GMM Fishing Tournament - June 24, St. Croix River Lunch ‘n Learn: Aug. 5, 2008, Suzanna’s Restaurant, New

Richmond

Valley Last Tues. Holiday Party - 2008 TBD Various -- visit vhba.com for schedule

Wausau Area 3rd Tues. –––– ––––

Winnebago 2nd Wed., no Aug. 2008 TBD ––––

Wolf River Last Tues. Sporting Clays - June 10, 2008 ––––

What Is a Contractor Supposed to Do?

It is essential to use straightforward, detailed, well-worded contracts, change orders and other documentation for each job. Avoid verbal agreements and make sure everything agreed upon is put in writing. Follow the paperwork procedures dictated in ATCP 110 to protect yourself and company. Clear, specific paperwork can help facilitate a professional relationship between the contractor and consumer that benefits both parties.

REMoDELERSContinued from page 17

Badger 0807.indd 18 6/6/08 11:13:34 AM

Wisconsin Badger Builder • July/August 2008 • www.wisbuild.org 19Wisconsin Badger Builder • July/August 2008 • www.wisbuild.org

LocaL assocIaTIon Parade oF HoMes HoMe sHoW GoLF ouTInG InsTaLLaTIon BBWGeneraL

MeMBersHIP MeeTInG

Brown CountyShowcase of New Homes Fall 2008 - Sept. 20-21 & 25-28, Spring 2009 - March 7-8 & 12-15

Jan. 15-18, 2009 July 9, 2008 Dec. 4, 2008, SC Grand Banquet & Convention

Golf Event - Sept. 30, 2008


Central Wisconsin Sept. 5-8 2008 2009 TBD July 11, 2008 Nov. 20, 2008 2008 TBD 2008 TBD

Chippewa Valley June 6-24, 2009 Home & Garden Show - Feb 20-22, 2009

July 10, 2008 Oct. 14, 2008, The Plaza Sept. 9, 2008, Florian Gardens


Door County 2009 TBD 2009 TBD Sept. 2008 2008 TBD –––– 2nd Thurs.

Fond du Lac & Dodge Counties July 18-27, 2008 March 27-29, 2009 Aug. 8, 2008 Sept. 17, 2008 –––– 3rd Wed., no July, Aug.

Golden Sands June 6-9, 2008 Home Show - Feb. 28 & March 1, 2009, Holiday Inn and Convention Center

July 15, 2008Sept. 16, 2008 7:00 pm, Sky Club, Plover

2008 TBD 3rd Tues., no Aug.

Headwaters –––– ––––Sept. 5, 2008, Edgewaters Golf Course, Tomahawk

Sept. 2008 –––– 2nd Tues., Wed., Thurs; no June, July, Aug.

Heart of the North Sept. 20-21, 27-28, 2008 2009 TBD July 16, 2008 Nov. 15, 2008 –––– 2nd Thurs.

La Crosse Area June 14, 15 & 18-22, 2008 March 13-15, 2009 July 16, 2008 Sept. 16, 2008 July 16, 2008 3rd Tues., no June, July, Dec.

Lakeland July 26-27 & Aug. 2-3 2009 TBD June 26, 2008 Dec. 12, 2008, 6:00 pm, Evergreen Golf Course 2008 TBD 3rd Wed., no June,

July, Aug.

Madison Area June 7-22, 2008 March 6-8, 2009 July 19, 2008, Yamaha Golf Course with pig roast

Dec. 8, 2008, Concourse Hotel

Silent Auction - Oct. 2008 1st Mon., Sept., Nov.

Manitowoc County June 19-22, 2008 2009 TBD Aug. 6, 2008Dec. 3, 2008, Knox’s Silver Valley Banquet Hall

Aug. 21, 2008 4th Thurs., no June, July, Nov., Dec.

Metropolitan Aug. 16, 2008, Sept. 7, 2008 Jan. 8-11, 2009 June 16, 2008 Dec. 4, 2008, Harley-Davidson Museum –––– October TBD

Mid-Shores Oct. 2-5, 2008 –––– ––––Dec. 5, 2008, Milhome Super Club, Install & Holiday Party, Kiel, WI

Live Auction - Dec. 5, 2008

2nd Tues., no June, July, Aug.

Mid-Wisconsin –––– Feb. 6-9, 2009 May 14, 2008, Devil’s Head Resort

Sept. 9, 2008 - Marty’s Steakhouse, Voyageur Inn, Reedsburg

October 14, 2008 - The New Monks, Wisconsin Dells, Silent Auction

2nd Tues., no July or Aug.

Northland Area June 7, 2008 –––– Aug. 2008 Nov. 4, 2008 Aug. 2008 1st and 3rd Tues.

Racine-Kenosha Sept. 6-7, 10, 12-14, 2008 –––– June 12, 2008 Dec. 11, 2008 2008 TBD 3rd Wed., no June or Dec.

Sheboygan County Sept. 5-7, 12-14, 2008 2009 TBD June 18, 2008 Sept. 24, 2008 2009 TBD 3rd Wed., no June, July, Aug.

South Central Wisconsin Sept. 6-7, 10, 12-14, 2008 Feb. 27-28, Mar 1, 2009,

Holiday Inn Express

June 19, 2008, Koshkonong Mounds, Noon, shotgun start

Dec. 9, 2008Silent Auction - Oct. 28, 2008 4th Tues., no GMMs in

June, July or Aug.

South Western Wisconsin 2009 TBD 2009 TBD 2008 TBD 2008 TBD 2008 TBD 2008 TBD

St. Croix Valley Fall Tour of Homes - Sept. 6-7, 13-14, 20-21 & 27-28, 2008

Home & Remodeling Show - March 14-15, 2009, Hudson Sports & Civic Center

July 21, 2008Dec. 16, 2008, R & D Banquet Hall, New Richmond

2008 TBD

June 24 - Family Picnic, Aug. 14 - Boat Cruise, Sept. 23, Oct. 21, Dec. 16

Valley Condos - June 2008, Summer Parade - Aug. 2008 2009 TBD July 10, 2008 &

August 2008 Sept. 4, 2008 2008 TBDFirst Tues., no June, July, Aug., Dec. is Holiday Party

Wausau Area June 17-22, 2008 2009 TBD June 27, 2008 Oct. 16, 2008 2008 TBD 3rd Thurs., no June, July, Aug.

Winnebago 2009 TBD 2009 TBDJune 24, 2008, Lake Breeze Golf Course, Winneconne, 11:00 am

Sept. 10, 2008, Robbins Restaurant 6:30 pm 2008 TBD 2nd Wed., no June,

July, Aug.

Wolf River –––– 2009 TBD August 12, 2008 Oct. 14, 2008 –––– 2nd Tues.

LocaL assocIaTIon LocaL Board MeeTInG oTHer eVenTs educaTIon

Brown County 1st Wed. Sporting Clays - Oct. 9, 2008 Annual Seminar Series

Central Wisconsin 2nd Tues. Holiday Party - TBD ––––

Chippewa Valley 4th Tues. every other month Holiday Party - Dec. 5, The Plaza See CVHBA calendar at www.cvhomebuilders.com

Door County 1st Wed. 2008 TBD ––––

Fond du Lac & Dodge Counties 1st Tues., no July Relay for Life - Aug. 1, Pheasant Hunt - Oct. 4 ––––

Golden Sands 3rd Tues. Holiday Party - Dec. 16, 2008 ––––

Headwaters 2nd Tues., Wed., Thurs., before GMM Whitetails Unlimited Banquet - 2008 TBD Continuing Ed offered during some GMM’s

Heart of the North 1st Thurs. Holiday Party - Nov. 15, 2008 ––––

La Crosse Area 3rd Tues. 2008 Auction - Sept. 13, Holiday Party - Dec. 5 Lunch ‘n Learn - Thurs. Feb., April, Aug., Oct. Builder Break-fasts - Last Thurs. Jan., March, May, Sept.

Lakeland 2nd Wed., no Aug. –––– Lunch ‘n Learn: Last Tues. of month

Madison Area 3rd Wed. Parade of Condos - July 26-Aug. 3 2008 April 30, 2008 - Guide to Good Truss Practices, 6 Dwelling Contractor Qualifier credits

Manitowoc County 2nd Thurs. Sporting Clays - Sept. 10, 2008 Awake to Learn seminars the 2nd Wed. of month

Metropolitan 2nd Wed., no Aug. Commerce Approved 12-Hour Series offered in June: Part I - June 5, Part II - June 12, Part III - June 19 $150 HBA members/$225 non-members

Commerce Approved 12-Hour Course DVD available to HBA members for $150/non-members for $225 at MBAonline.org. We are also offering NAHB CAPS classes June 10, 17, & 24, 2008.

Mid-Shores 2nd Tues. Trap Shoot - Sept. 10, 2008 ––––

Mid-Wisconsin 3rd Tues. –––– ––––

Northland Area 3rd Wed. –––– On-Site UDC Training - March 25, 2008

Racine-Kenosha 1st Wed. 2008 TBD Monthly

Sheboygan County 1st Tues., no July 2008 TBD Monthly except June, July, Aug.

South Central Wisconsin 2nd Tues. 2008 TBD 2008 TBD

South Western Wisconsin 2008 TBD 2008 TBD 2008 TBD

St. Croix Valley Bi-monthly, one week before GMM Fishing Tournament - June 24, St. Croix River Lunch ‘n Learn: Aug. 5, 2008, Suzanna’s Restaurant, New

Richmond

Valley Last Tues. Holiday Party - 2008 TBD Various -- visit vhba.com for schedule

Wausau Area 3rd Tues. –––– ––––

Winnebago 2nd Wed., no Aug. 2008 TBD ––––

Wolf River Last Tues. Sporting Clays - June 10, 2008 ––––

What Is a Contractor Supposed to Do?

It is essential to use straightforward, detailed, well-worded contracts, change orders and other documentation for each job. Avoid verbal agreements and make sure everything agreed upon is put in writing. Follow the paperwork procedures dictated in ATCP 110 to protect yourself and company. Clear, specific paperwork can help facilitate a professional relationship between the contractor and consumer that benefits both parties.

The WBA Remodelers Council Is Here for You!

The WBA Remodelers Council is looking out for you and protecting your interests with important issues such as ATCP 110. Members receive up-to-date industry information, education and certification as well as suggested contract language. Join the WBA Remodelers Council! Membership can help you avoid costly mistakes as you learn from the experiences of other remodelers from across the state and the nation. For more information about joining the WBA Remodelers Council, contact Megan Taylor at [email protected] or (888) 242-5155 ext. 24. X

REMoDELERSContinued from page 17

Badger 0807.indd 19 6/6/08 11:13:37 AM


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by Nancy Davis

Jim Bourne’s schedule is full. When he’s not meeting with clients or drawing up home designs, he’s working on a Parade of Homes entry or researching new products.

Bourne, owner of Madison Homes in Verona, likes it this way, gaining energy with every new home and new experience.

He has always been a hands-on person, he says, and as a youngster would work on building or fixing anything he could. From hanging drywall to drawing blueprints, he found he was happiest working with his hands to solve problems. After start-ing an engineering program at University of Wisconsin, where he earned a full-ride football scholarship, he switched majors to reflect his true passion and graduated with a degree in construc-tion administration in 1993.

Bourne’s building career began with an internship which turned into a full-time job as construction manager, then chief operating officer with a local builder. He left that company to start Madison Homes eight years ago. “The building market as a whole is always challenging. Those challenges are what keep you on your toes. The difficult part of this profession is accom-modating a constantly changing market. I like being diversified from high-end custom to first-time buyer homes to our remodel-ing division,” he said.

Bourne also likes working directly with customers, consulting on all of their choices and styles, from tradi-tional to craftsman to prairie. He said

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Badger 0807.indd 20 6/6/08 11:13:41 AM


BuIlder PRoFILE

Real Living on Real Carpet

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250 W. Beltline Hwy, Madison, WI 53713

by Nancy Davis

Jim Bourne’s schedule is full. When he’s not meeting with clients or drawing up home designs, he’s working on a Parade of Homes entry or researching new products.

Bourne, owner of Madison Homes in Verona, likes it this way, gaining energy with every new home and new experience.

He has always been a hands-on person, he says, and as a youngster would work on building or fixing anything he could. From hanging drywall to drawing blueprints, he found he was happiest working with his hands to solve problems. After start-ing an engineering program at University of Wisconsin, where he earned a full-ride football scholarship, he switched majors to reflect his true passion and graduated with a degree in construc-tion administration in 1993.

Bourne’s building career began with an internship which turned into a full-time job as construction manager, then chief operating officer with a local builder. He left that company to start Madison Homes eight years ago. “The building market as a whole is always challenging. Those challenges are what keep you on your toes. The difficult part of this profession is accom-modating a constantly changing market. I like being diversified from high-end custom to first-time buyer homes to our remodel-ing division,” he said.

Bourne also likes working directly with customers, consulting on all of their choices and styles, from tradi-tional to craftsman to prairie. He said

it is exciting to help them visualize their dreams. “They probably don’t want me swinging hammers, because I’m not as efficient as the carpentry staff we have on payroll. But when I can’t be there, I have two onsite expediters who are my eyes,” Bourne said.

Madison’s housing market continues to be strong, he said, without the doom and gloom reported by many other regions in the nation. “It is a great time to build with the interest rates and the lumber commodities coming back in line,” he said.

Madison Homes builds 50 to 100 units per year, including single-family, duplexes and condominiums in the mix. Bourne’s other businesses include Madison Remodeling and Wisconsin Waterfront Builders.

New Game, Better ToolsSome would crumble under the pressure of keeping all these

balls in the air, but Bourne just finds ways to do more, faster and better, by utilizing the latest in technology.

“We have an in house CAD design department, and we update our Web site (www.newmadisonhomes.com) often. We continu-

This Badger Takes High-Tech Approach on All His Projects


Madison Homes Inc. James C. Bourne

Badger 0807.indd 21 6/6/08 11:13:51 AM

Wisconsin Badger Builder • July/August 2008 • www.wisbuild.org22

ally put new clients on custom pages with photos, and then we forward the link. We get a couple hundred hits on these because people are so excited to show all their friends and family their new home. Technology has been a great tool for me for the past 15 years,” he said.

In addition to marketing and promo-tion, technology has offered Bourne opportunities even he never imagined. In fact, it has broadened his horizons and improved his efficiency at the same time. Bourne said he is able to do five times as much as he would have thanks to e-mail, messaging, software, wireless connec-tions and more.

For example, Bourne and his team were able to build a 5,300-square-foot, A-frame dream home 200 miles north of Madison on Lake Tomahawk. The steep, rocky and tree-covered property seemed unsuited for such a project, and the remoteness of the area made it even more daunting. Bourne, however, just set his sights on the possi-bilities, not the obstacles.

From his office, or his laptop, he was able to oversee each step of the construc-tion process via Web cameras he had mounted in trees on the picturesque job site. He also set up high-speed wireless internet service on the property.

“I had full control of the cameras and could maneuver them around for different angles of the site. It was a difficult lot to build on, and I couldn’t be there when the concrete was poured for the foundation, so I watched from the computer and told the guys how to adjust the heights, and so on, right from my office,” said Bourne.

Bourne also set up temperature sensors in the house to alert him if the power went out on the property to avoid frozen pipes. The Madison Homes office staff had fun with the cameras as well, some-times zooming across the lake to watch deer and other wildlife stroll by.

Bourne is currently working on utiliz-ing the Internet for job site security. Although he has not experienced much job site theft, he is staying ahead of the game by installing cameras in all of his homes throughout the construction phase. The presence of cameras may thwart would-be thieves, and also remind homeowners and subcontractors of the high level of professionalism expected by

Madison Homes. Bourne receives weekly police reports — via Internet — on any theft in his job site regions.

“I can do so much work now and feel great about it. I am constantly learning and interacting from a technical standpoint. One of my clients, who is also my IT person and friend, has me on top of my electronic game. It is a great resource that allows me to do all that I do and move forward with my business,” he said.

Professional Involvement

A director with the NAHB, Bourne has served as past president of the Madison Area Builders’ Association (MABA) and on the Wisconsin Builders’ Association® Board of Directors. “The state and national associations provide the best possible exposure you can have in the industry,” he said. “The job the WBA does for builders — often without build-ers even realizing it — is unbelievable.” Bourne feels the WBA staff and the work they do to help this industry develop and grow is incredibly important.

“Most of us are not able to attend the meetings, but they keep us informed via e-mail on the hot issues. I personally don’t have time to read books, but I read my e-mail because I get so much good infor-

mation from all of the associations,” said Bourne. He strongly encourages builders who want to grow and improve their busi-ness to take advantage of all of the benefits membership in these groups has to offer.

Magic Potion for Success?

The volume of his work is reflected in the larger condominium projects, single-family homes and million-dollar custom houses he has built. Bourne said his company is starting a new home every week. What’s the secret?

The key to his success and growth over the past years, he would say, is foresight combined with the smart use of technol-ogy. He also credits his great 20 team members, and the importance of old fash-ioned face-to-face communication. “I treat every home like it is my own, and I only work with quality craftsman. I strive to bring together only those who are the best in their fields.”

In addition to spending quality time with his three children, Bourne volunteers as a leader with the Mendota Gridiron Club, a football booster organization at the University of Wisconsin. “There is no secret. It is just hard work that puts this company above and beyond. I love what I do, and it never gets old,” he said. X

BuILDER PRoFILEContinued from page 21

the building market as a whole is always challenging. those challenges are what keep you on your toes. the difficult part of this profession is accommodating a constantly changing

market. I like being diversified from high-end custom to first-time buyer homes to our remodeling division.

— James C. Bourne, Madison Homes Inc.

Badger 0807.indd 22 6/6/08 11:13:57 AM


mation from all of the associations,” said Bourne. He strongly encourages builders who want to grow and improve their busi-ness to take advantage of all of the benefits membership in these groups has to offer.

Magic Potion for Success?

The volume of his work is reflected in the larger condominium projects, single-family homes and million-dollar custom houses he has built. Bourne said his company is starting a new home every week. What’s the secret?

The key to his success and growth over the past years, he would say, is foresight combined with the smart use of technol-ogy. He also credits his great 20 team members, and the importance of old fash-ioned face-to-face communication. “I treat every home like it is my own, and I only work with quality craftsman. I strive to bring together only those who are the best in their fields.”

In addition to spending quality time with his three children, Bourne volunteers as a leader with the Mendota Gridiron Club, a football booster organization at the University of Wisconsin. “There is no secret. It is just hard work that puts this company above and beyond. I love what I do, and it never gets old,” he said. X

the building market as a whole is always challenging. those challenges are what keep you on your toes. the difficult part of this profession is accommodating a constantly changing

market. I like being diversified from high-end custom to first-time buyer homes to our remodeling division.

— James C. Bourne, Madison Homes Inc.

Badger 0807.indd 23 6/6/08 11:13:57 AM

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Badger 0807.indd 24 6/6/08 11:14:00 AM

Documents

July Aug 2008 FINAL