jan_feb 2008 final

Route to: q President q Purchasing q Sales/Mktg. q Superintendent

January/February 2008

Builder Profile: Pawlak Construction

Capitol Perspective: Wisconsin in a League of Its Own

Wisconsin Badger Builder • January/February 2008 • www.wisbuild.org� Wisconsin Badger Builder • January/February 2008 • www.wisbuild.org

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Wisconsin Badger Builder • January/February 2008 • www.wisbuild.org Wisconsin Badger Builder • January/February 2008 • www.wisbuild.org �

1�

16

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®.

January/February �008 Volume �5 • Issue 1features

Honoring Marv.................................................................... 6The WBA remembers Hall of Fame member Marv Schuette of Wausau Homes, who passed away on Sept. 14, 2007.

Capitol Perspective ........................................................... 11Senator Dan Kapanke describes how Wisconsin sets itself apart from national trends.

Builder Profile ................................................................... 1�Dennis Pawlak of Pawlak Construction builds for the love of the trade.

departmentsPresident’s Perspective ................................................................................ 4Recruitment Efforts Benefit Everyone

Executive Viewpoint ..................................................................................... 5Never Underestimate the Role of the EO

Government Affairs .................................................................................... 10Session 2007-2008 Final Push

Member Advantage .................................................................................... 1�Voluntary Payroll Deduction Programs: A Win-Win Situation for Employers and Their Employees

Local Happenings ....................................................................................... 16Photos and details of WBA local association events around the state.

News & Events ............................................................................................. 17

Wisconsin Badger Builder • January/February 2008 • www.wisbuild.org4 Wisconsin Badger Builder • January/February 2008 • www.wisbuild.org

WBA Seniors OfficersPresident: Mark Etrheim

[email protected]

President-Elect: Jason Steen [email protected]

Treasurer: Doug Scott [email protected]

Secretary: Jim “KUBA” Kubasta [email protected]

Associate Vice President: Kevin Pitts [email protected]

Past President: Frank Madden [email protected]

Associate Advisor to the Senior Officers: Greg Schaffer

[email protected]

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]

Administrative Assistant: Kimberly Fay, Ext. 10 - [email protected]

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

Accounting Assistant: Mark Nelson, Ext. 25 - [email protected]

Director of Development Council: Pat Stevens, Ext. 22 - [email protected]

Director of Communications: Michael Cline, Ext. 19 [email protected]

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

Director of Membership Services: Jane Witt, Ext. 17 - [email protected]

WBA Insurance ServicesAgency Manager:

Karl Johnson, Ext. 23 - [email protected]

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

Editor ........................................................ Michael Cline

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

Graphic Designer .............................Michele L. Peterson

Publication Coordinator ................................ John Bitters

Proofreader .................................................... Stacey Rex

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

Advertising Sales ...........................................Jeff Pinwar(800) 935-1592, ext. 118

Recruitment Efforts Benefit Everyone

President’s

PERSPECTiVE

By Mark Etrheim, 2007 WBA President

I’m amazed at how quickly a year goes by as president of the Wisconsin Builders Association. It’s been an

exciting year of progress as we battled rules and budgets at the state capital and worked tirelessly to keep WBA the strongest voice for home builders and the associated businesses in Wisconsin. Of all the projects we completed this year, I am most impressed by our ability to expand our membership even during a slowdown in construction activity.

In October, we performed another Oliver Group miracle by gaining 454 new WBA members during just a two-day effort. The Oliver Group consultants have proven again that they can help us exceed our membership goals in a manner that we could not do on our own. They infuse enthusiasm, friendly competition and motivation from an “outsid-er’s” perspective. Their fresh faces arriving on the scene instill a sense of new possibilities in each and every participant who steps up to the challenge of gathering fellow builders and industry professionals to join the WBA voice.

What’s even more astounding about October’s Oliver Group effort is that only two of WBA’s 24 locals participated. The Oliver Group makes it easy for a local to dramatically increase their membership in a short burst of effort. In the end, we all win because WBA is involving more of the professionals who are already benefiting from our work. And with more members comes more resources for WBA to continue its work toward keeping rules and laws from infringing on our businesses.

Each local has a wonderful opportunity to fulfill membership recruitment needs every year with the Oliver Group’s help. May 2008 will be the next membership drive. The importance of everyone’s involvement with membership recruitment is huge for two reasons. First, with more people helping, it lightens the burden on everyone. It’s the old association proverb:

“Doubling our membership is as simple as each of us finding one new member each year.” How hard could that be?

Second, members ARE the association. Without members, there is no association staff to testify at local and state legisla-tive hearings on behalf of our industry. Without members, we have no common voice representing our industry to the consumers and the decision makers.

I sincerely hope that most of WBA’s 24 locals will participate in the 2008 Oliver Group drive. In the association world, membership recruiting is not optional. It’s required for any organization to remain in business-helping industries like ours. What is optional are the tools you use to recruit members. The Oliver Group’s toolset is finely tuned to make membership recruit-ing easy (and between you and me, they make it fun). All locals should join the Oliver Group effort in May so you don’t have to devote precious time crafting your own membership recruiting tools.

This past year as president of our asso-ciation has opened my eyes to many new perspectives of our industry and the value of WBA. In so many ways our industry needs an association like WBA, yet WBA needs the professionals like you and me to keep the organization thriving. Together we all have to commit to involving new members to follow the ranks of the builders before them who kept our industry strong by joining WBA and keeping the voice of builders clearly heard throughout the great state of Wisconsin.

We have an unusual number of highly qualified individuals who are willing to sacrifice a huge amount of time to make the decisions necessary to keep us head-ing in the right direction. Where else can you buy the talents of 11 staff working full-time on your behalf for $150 a year? Thank you for allowing me to serve as your state president this year. It has been a real learning experience.

Do the right thing. X

Wisconsin Badger Builder • January/February 2008 • www.wisbuild.org Wisconsin Badger Builder • January/February 2008 • www.wisbuild.org 5

Never Underestimate the Role of the EO

Executive

ViEWPOiNT

Every local is different

in size, available

resources, specific

needs and challenges.

While WBA and fellow

EOs can provide insight

to address challenges,

it is also very important

to respectfully allow an

organization’s leadership

to remain closely

involved with their EO to

identify and overcome

their own challenges.

Advertise Your Business in Wisconsin Badger Builder

Call Jeff Pinwar: (800) 935-1592, x118

TODAY!

By Bill Wendle, WBA Executive Vice President

I’m pleased to see news that our state-wide network has expanded now. Our 25th local has received its

NAHB Charter, and we look forward to welcoming the charter members to the WBA team. The South Western Wisconsin Home Builders Association (SWWHBA) received its NAHB charter on Oct. 25. The new local will soon be represented at our quarterly board meetings. Currently, the local’s primary founder and president, Ron Starmer, will act as the “point man” for the local. Soon I expect SWWHBA to seek a dedicated staff to maintain the organiza-tion’s growth, which is so important in a local’s formation.

Without question, the most important decision a growing local can make is hiring an executive officer to execute membership recruitment and to motivate the members to become involved in the local’s decisions and to participate in WBA board meetings. These two goals should be the primary goals of any new executive officer who takes the helm of a growing local. EOs know that with-out membership growth, a local cannot expand its services for members. This is in addition to establishing a strong base of leadership at the state level when WBA convenes the board of directors to determine WBA’s course of action on countless issues.

All of the executive officers through-out our network of locals are in a unique position. They represent their members from their local; EOs also represent WBA and are the main conduit for state information to be passed along to their members. Likewise, the EOs are WBA’s best resource to “feel the pulse” of the members. All EOs throughout the state hold a seat on the WBA Executive Officers Council (EOC). This council

convenes at each board of directors meeting to discuss common challenges and identify solutions. Periodically, the EOC will meet exclusively with the WBA Senior Officers to examine ways WBA and the locals can improve our inter-related operations.

Every local is different in size, available resources, specific needs and challenges. While WBA and fellow EOs can provide insight to address challenges, it is also very important to respectfully allow an organization’s leadership to remain closely involved with their EO to identify and overcome

their own challenges. It’s essential for organization leaders and their EO to remain in “lock-step” with each other’s vision and priorities.

A growing local will undoubtedly place priority on expanding member-ship. Yet a well-established organiza-tion may need to emphasize retaining members through expanded services. Perhaps other mid-sized locals will split the priority between getting more members involved with leadership and gaining new members. This process of setting priorities needs to come from the local’s leadership in order to provide the EO with a clear plan to follow.

As a professional, your EO is empowered to balance all of the organization’s priorities so that growth and retention isn’t short-changed by too much emphasis on advocacy. WBA will soon be re-examining its priorities in the strategic plan. If locals perform the same exercise of identifying and prioritizing issues and goals, then each local can better assist in developing the WBA plan so it reflects common issues and goals throughout the state.

This year holds unlimited possibili-ties for WBA and your local associa-tion. As our industry anxiously works through the ups and downs of a variety of economic factors, we CAN influence how we, as a group, leap into the new year with new goals, new issues and new enthusiasm toward promoting and preserving the American Dream. X


The Schuette family: (L to R) Tom, Ruth, Marv, Sara and Jay.

Wausau Homes lost its leader and the Wisconsin building industry lost one of its greats

when Marvin C. Schuette passed away peacefully on Sept. 14, 2007.

“Marv’s influence on the home build-ing industry is shown not only locally, but also on the state and national scene,” said Shirley Kruesel, executive officer of the Wausau Area Builders Association. “He never forgot his humble beginnings in business and always shared his ‘hard work and work smart’ ethic. Most of all, Marv strongly believed in the importance of education to learn and be an innovator in providing affordable housing.”

Tragedy Brings a Family Together

Schuette was born Oct. 27, 1931, on a dairy farm in Marathon, Wisc., joining older siblings Earl, Clifford and Myra (Tootie). After the sudden death of their father, August, in a cheese factory acci-dent, their mother, Elizabeth, was left with the daunting task of being a single parent during the Great Depression. Fortunately for her, Earl and Cliff had ideas of their own. Their milk routes were done by noon, so the boys hauled lumber and pulp for paper companies. They convinced their mother to invest her insurance funds, under tough terms, to start a saw mill.

A lumberyard soon followed, and Schuette set out to be the first in his family to earn a college degree. After graduating from the University of Wisconsin-Madison with a BA in economics, Schuette joined his brothers and brother-in-law Jack Peterson in the expanding family business.

A turning point in Schuette’s life occurred when he married Wausau High English teacher Ruth (Rudie) Janick from Crivitz, Wisc. They had three children: Tom, Sara and Jay. Rudie raised the chil-dren while Schuette was raising sales for a growing Wausau Homes.

By 1972, Wausau Homes was produc-ing 2,000 homes a year with a 2,000 home backlog and the original plant on Cherry Street in Wausau was “maxed out.” In 1975, a new state-of-the-art, 330,000-square-foot factory opened on 80 acres in Rothschild. The plant was designed to produce 4,000 homes a year.

Weathering the 1970s’ Economic Storm

In 1978, Schuette bought out his brother’s interest just in time for the worst housing recession in history. With high inflation and higher interest rates, Schuette and Ruth had everything on the line.

Soon, Schuette acquired Sterling Building Systems and began WH Transportation. He kept the bankers from First Wisconsin at bay, assuring them no one else could pull Wausau Homes from the brink. During these tough days, Schuette never wavered in confidence that Wausau Homes would return to a profit-able company.

When the economy turned around, Wausau Homes was restructured and poised

Honoring Marv

Wisconsin Builders Association Remembers Hall of Fame Member Marv Schuette of Wausau Homes

MARv ScHuette


Marv wasn’t just my dad;

he was one of the most

passionate businessmen

i’ve ever known. He had a

deep interest and desire

in seeing people succeed,

whether they were Wausau

Homes builders, employees,

vendors or someone he

chanced to meet.

— Tom Schuette

for a comeback. Despite sizable debt, Schuette invested in computer technology, integrating architectural engineering, pric-ing, manufacturing and field assembly.

Leaving a LegacyToday, Wausau Homes and its affiliates

have eight plants in Wisconsin, Illinois, Iowa, Ohio (two), Virginia, Georgia and Tennessee, servicing a network of 700 builders. Schuette was thrilled to see original builders pass their own busi-nesses to second generations. He encour-aged and assisted employees to enter into business for themselves.

“Oftentimes, Schuette believed in people more than they believed in themselves,” said Schuette’s son Tom. “He gave them amazing opportunities, and took great pride and joy in seeing them accomplish more than they dreamed possible of themselves.”

As the business expanded, Schuette’s family also began to expand. His son Tom married Connie Riiser. They have a daugh-ter, Lauren, and live in Wausau. Daughter Sara married Steve Friedle. They reside in Wheaton, Ill. and have three children: Ellen, Hannah and Nate. Jay married Gretchen Glader, and they live in Sugar Grove, Ill. They also have three children: Ann, Sam and Joe. Schuette had the same zeal in teaching life lessons to his grand-children as to his managers.

“Marv lived to work,” said Tom. “When I started working for him full-time, we agreed that I would call him Marv during work situations and Dad during non-work situations.” Tom says that because there were so few non-work situations, even during holidays, he ended up just calling him Marv all the time.

“That was okay, because being a dedi-cated businessman was what he was all about,” said Tom.

Recognition for a Great ManSchuette received many accolades over

the years and proudly displayed them when it highlighted his companies. However, Schuette was modest about bringing any attention to himself and would make personal contributions under the auspices of “the employees of Wausau Homes.”

“With his ‘never quit’ attitude, his busi-ness flourished,” said Kruesel. “Because of his success, the Wausau area has been blessed with his family’s generosity in supporting scholarships and providing building materials to both area high schools

and Northcentral Technical College.” Kruesel says Schuette was also a strong supporter of the Boy and Girl Scouts and many other community organizations.

Here are recognitions of his efforts and contributions:• President National Association of

Building Manufacturers• Automated Builder James R. Price trophy• Achievement in Housing Award, 1990• Wisconsin Builders Association

Builder of the Year, 1997• Wisconsin Builders Association

Hall of Fame• Wausau Homes Scout Center• Girl Scouts of America Thanks Badge• Lion’s Camp for the Blind• Salvation Army • Special Olympics• Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin• Hot Air Balloons at St. Clare’s

Medical Center• Stanton W. Mead Wildlife Education

and Wildlife Center• Humane Society, Marathon County• Habitat for Humanity• Area Public High Schools• Rothschild Pavilion• Junior Achievement Award for

Outstanding Support of Youth, 2004• Junior Achievement Gold Leadership

Award, 2007• “Soar with the Eagles” oil painting

presented by Wausau Homes builders celebrating 30 years of leadership

• “Eagles Dare to Win” bronze presented by Wausau Homes employees recog-nizing 40 years of business

Continued on page 8


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Passing of the TorchIn the last year, as Schuette’s health

was declining, he was dismayed but not surprised to see the present hous-ing recession. Predictably, Schuette was working every day, doing all that was possible to weather yet another storm and come out on top, poised for another opportunity. By sheer will and determina-tion, he lived longer than expected.

Schuette celebrated his 75th birthday last October among family and friends. Schuette worked the day before he died, fulfilling his children’s prophecy that

HONORiNg MARVContinued from page 7

their father would “die in the saddle with his boots on.”

“Marv wasn’t just my dad; he was one of the most passionate businessmen I’ve ever known,” said Tom. “He had a deep interest and desire in seeing people succeed, whether they were Wausau


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Homes builders, employees, vendors or someone he chanced to meet.”

Wausau Homes/Sterling Building Systems is continuing under family ownership and leadership. Co-leading the company are brothers Tom and Jay Schuette, who have unique strengths that complement each other well. Tom is responsible for leading the company in operations and technology, while Jay’s focus is sales and marketing.

Tom said, “Wausau Homes will continue to provide builders with the marketing tools they need to succeed in today’s competitive housing market.”

Kruesel said, “Many of WABA’s builders got their start working for Mr. Schuette. His leadership will have an imprint on the Wausau Area forever.” X

Wisconsin Badger Builder • January/February 2008 • www.wisbuild.org10 Wisconsin Badger Builder • January/February 2008 • www.wisbuild.org10

Session �007-�008 Final Push

Government

AFFAiRS

Now is the time of year when groups such as WBA

take another hard look at the items they are trying

pass and those they are trying to defeat before

legislators depart Madison to hit the

streets campaigning for re-election.

By Brad Boycks, Director of Government Affairs

With the passage of the state budget and final action on the provision dealing with

automatic sprinkler systems in multi-family units having been dealt with by the legislature, our attention now turns to a number of equally important provisions we are tracking before the end of session.

You see, the 2007-2008 legislative session for Wisconsin state government is set to end on May 8, 2008. Now is the time of year when groups such as WBA take another hard look at the items they are trying pass and those they are trying to defeat before legislators depart Madison to hit the streets campaigning for re-election.

On Feb. 26, 2008, WBA members from across the state will be meeting in Madison to participate in Business Day in Madison 2008. This annual event is an opportunity to come to Madison and help WBA fight for the remaining items on our legislative agenda through grassroots lobbying.

We are looking at the following items to be a part of our lobbying efforts during Business Day in Madison 2008.

Impact FeesWe have been working hard in 2007

on this follow-up legislation from the bills we passed last session on impact fees. This bill makes some changes to the time period when impact fees can be collected and puts restrictions on fees charged for professional services dealing with the dedication of storm water facilities. This bill awaits passage by the state senate and hopefully will receive the signature of Governor Doyle to become law.

Charter TownsWBA continues to oppose the charter

towns legislation because, if passed, it would completely change the process by which cities and villages grow. This legislative change would give certain towns significant legal clout to block annexations without requiring those towns to accommo-date the growth served by that annexation.

Town GrowthWhile WBA is in opposition to the Charter

Towns legislation, we do favor giving towns more tools to accommodate growth in both residential and commercial building. WBA continues to talk with members of the legis-lature on a comprehensive package of incen-tives for towns to accommodate additional growth and tax base.

Appointment of DNR Secretary by the Natural Resources Board

WBA continues to oppose the three bills that are currently before the legislature that would give the Natural Resources Board the power to appoint the DNR secretary. WBA feels that Wisconsin’s governor, regardless of political party,

needs to have the ability to appoint their own DNR secretary and be able to hold them accountable for their actions.

Creation of a Bill to Provide Tax Credits for Using Energy-Efficient Materials in Building

WBA has created a subcommittee to examine ways the state government can encourage the purchase and use of more energy-efficient household items to promote a “greener” lifestyle. This may be a project that is not complete and ready for introduc-tion until next session, but this is an impor-tant topic warranting examination now.

Looking aheadThese are some of the major issues we

are working on as the 2007-2008 legislative session soon comes to a close. There are a number of other issues that we are tracking and working hard to pass or make sure do not become law before session’s end.

I would encourage all of you to contact your local association to attend the 2008 Business Day in Madison on Feb. 26, 2008, and help us work toward a success-ful end of this session. X


Wisconsin Sets Itself Apart From National Trends

Capitol

PERSPECTiVE

Insurance CompanyRural Mutual

www.ruralins.com

MARKETPLACE

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

We’ve got low mortgage

rates and stable

employment, something

Wisconsin can boast

across the state. Clearly,

our state and our builders

have somewhat insulated

us from the burst of the

housing bubble.

by Senator Dan Kapanke

We have all heard the gloomy reports from across the nation: The housing industry is expe-

riencing a steep downturn. Every morn-ing, the national news stations feature an economic analyst telling us what a bad time it is to sell a home, and how we can expect many years of this.

What a pleasant surprise it was for me, then, to open the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel on Saturday, Nov. 3, to see how Wisconsin home builders are doing their best to keep Wisconsin out of the national trend. (“For some, now’s the time,” MJS, 11/3.)

The article told the story of families across Southeast Wisconsin that bought and sold homes against advice from the analysts in New York and succeeded — largely because of the builders they had helping them.

This report simply reaffirmed what I already knew to be true: Wisconsin builders make the difference. Instead of

leaving homeowners out to dry, builders in Wisconsin are assisting them, helping them not only get into their new homes, but also to sell their previous homes.

This isn’t to say that the housing market is entirely secure in Wisconsin. But I sincerely believe that while the rest of the nation sees drastic changes in their housing industries, our people will be making the difference in our communi-ties. Because in Wisconsin, we had good people making sound decisions, our market never got wildly out of control and will not experience the drastic effects other states are going to see.

For example, in my home district, the La Crosse area, permits for new, single-family homes this year are only down 14 percent since last year, and we still have two months to go. In comparison, across the nation, other areas are seeing permits down 30-45 percent since last year. We’ve got low mortgage rates and stable employment, something Wisconsin can boast across the state. Clearly, our state and our builders have somewhat insulated us from the burst of the housing bubble.

In addition, our more stable hous-ing market will attract new residents to Wisconsin, and encourage our current citizenry to stay here, which is fantastic news across the board. With stable hous-ing and a stable population, businesses in Wisconsin will continue to thrive, leading to even more economic development and prosperity across the state.

Ultimately, Wisconsin’s builders deserve a great deal of gratitude for their efforts to keep our economy going strong. I’m thrilled to see our state once again setting itself apart and bucking national trends in this regard. There are certainly things we in the State Legislature can do to improve the overall business climate in Wisconsin. For example, we can work to cut down on bureaucratic red tape, over-regulation, and

Wisconsin’s tax burden. I look forward to working together to achieve our common goal of putting more people in new homes in Wisconsin. X

Wisconsin Badger Builder • January/February 2008 • www.wisbuild.org1� Wisconsin Badger Builder • January/February 2008 • www.wisbuild.org

Voluntary Payroll Deduction Programs: A Win-Win Situation for Employers

and Their EmployeesMember

ADVANTAgE

According to the most recent research from the Life

insurance Marketing Research Association (LiMRA), only 36 percent of workers had a life

insurance policy through their employer, and while 60 percent of people have

some coverage in total, face amounts — and, therefore,

insurance protection — had declined.

By Karl Johnson, WBA Insurance Services

If you’re an employer, did you know you pay your employees, on average, an extra $7.39 an hour? According

to the Department of Labor, that’s the average cost of employee benefits. These benefits include everything from group life and health coverage to annual bonuses, pension and profit-sharing plans, tuition reimbursement, paid vacation, holidays, medical leave — even free parking. Providing employees with these perks is like giving them a “second paycheck” for each actual paycheck they receive.

Unfortunately, that “second paycheck” goes unnoticed by most employees. Employers may be paying more and more each year, but the real value of those payments is not perceived by employ-ees. Little wonder then, that employers are increasingly looking for ways to cut benefit costs. But there’s a slippery slope here: Employers still need to attract and retain valuable employees, and a good benefits package is key to that aim.

That is why Voluntary Payroll Deduction (VPD) programs are rapidly gaining in popularity among business owners. These programs — which enable employees to purchase individual life insurance through the convenience of payroll deduction — are helping employers supplement their benefit packages with no direct out-of-pocket cost to themselves except the cost of administra-tion. Since the coverage offered under these plans is individual-employee-owned, it is also individual-employee-paid. Employers simply apply the administrative procedures they’re already using for other payroll deductions to enable their employees to create a disciplined, relatively painless insurance protection program. VPD programs can provide real value to employees for a number of reasons:

1LIMRA, Group Life Insurance Annual Review, January 2006.

• All employees can participate. Unlike many individual life insurance plans, VPD programs often have fairly simplified underwriting requirements. As a result, they are offered to all active employees equally and volun-tarily chosen or declined. The oppor-tunity to apply for insurance is open to all, and the decision to apply is made individually by employees.

• Employees like the ease and conve-nience. The majority of employees view payroll deduction as a good way to obtain insurance. Since they don’t have to write out a check to pay, the buying experience is relatively painless, and because they don’t have to remember to pay, it’s easier as well.

• These plans fill a definite need. According to the most recent research from the Life Insurance Marketing Research Association (LIMRA), only 36 percent of workers had a life insurance policy through their employer, and while 60 percent of people have some coverage

in total, face amounts — and, therefore, insurance protection — had declined.1 Additionally, many insureds have no dependent coverage, and 80 percent of employees can be expected to outlive the group term life insurance offered by their employers. The security of a life insurance policy that offers the opportunity for cash value accumulation can be the perfect solution for many of today’s workers.

• Policies purchased under a VPD program are portable. Employees own their own policies and can take the coverage with them if they leave their jobs for any reason. Of course, this is also true of any life coverage purchased through the plan on spouses, children and grandchildren.

For all of these reasons, VPD programs may greatly enhance the morale of employ-ees even when there are few employee benefits. The employer is making insurance coverage conveniently available to employ-ees at a competitive price.

So, what’s the catch? Just one: employers should be prepared to allow their employees some small amount of time during the work day to meet with the insurance company’s agents. This demonstrates the employer’s commitment to the program, and gives the agent a chance to explain the features and benefits of the plan. It’s also an opportunity for the agent to explain to the employee how the VPD plan supplements the existing company-provided package of employee benefits — that “hidden paycheck” that is all too real to the employer and all too unknown to the employee.

To find out more about offering VPD programs to your employees, please contact the office of WBA Insurance Services: Karl Johnson, agency manager, (888) 678-3015 Ext. 23 or Megan Taylor, sales associate, at Ext. 24. X

Wisconsin Badger Builder • January/February 2008 • www.wisbuild.org Wisconsin Badger Builder • January/February 2008 • www.wisbuild.org 1�

BUILDER PROFiLE

if you don’t enjoy your job, you’re missing out. i would recommend to builders who are going through slow times

to stay focused, keep your head up, and don’t be ashamed to go work for someone

else. Here in Chippewa Valley, we help each other out.

— Dennis Pawlak of Pawlak Construction

Dennis Pawlak of Pawlak Construction

Builds for the Love of the Trade

Around two o’clock every morning, Dennis Pawlak awakes to the thud of several bundles of newspapers being dropped in his driveway. It means that soon he’ll be out there, fold-

ing the Eau Claire Leader Telegram into neat cylinders in prepara-tion for his morning ritual.

“My daily routine involves waking my son up at 5 a.m. to get him ready for ‘his’ paper route. But I’ve already got the papers rolled by then. Once he’s up, we hop into the truck and start delivering — they have to be delivered by six. Then I come home, do some paperwork and get to the job site by seven,” said early riser Pawlak, owner of Pawlak Construction.

Not one to get much sleep, Pawlak doesn’t mind the schedule. He thinks it is more important to instill a good work ethic in his 13-year-old son, Brendon, than it is to catch a few extra winks. “I told him I’d help him, but now that he’s committed to it, I told him he has to stick with it.”

Pawlak is like this — hands-on and involved — with everything he does. “I don’t sleep much, because I’m always thinking about something I want to do or that needs to get done. I worry about things, and I want things to be just right on the homes I’m build-ing,” he said.

His company, Pawlak Construction, is a full-service construc-tion company that builds new homes, provides a wide range of remodeling services and specializes in barrier-free housing to customers with physical limitations. Pawlak has also actively volunteered with the Parade of Homes, Home and Garden Committee and church in his community.

Second Career Means MoreHe’s been building for a little more than five years, but Pawlak

has established himself as a leader and expert in the field. His ability to find niche markets, network with peers and educate himself on the ever-evolving construction world is noteworthy.

Pawlak graduated from Memorial High School in 1988 and took several college courses before going to work for a hardware and home improvement chain. He climbed the ladder there, spending 13 years as a merchandiser and buyer. But it wasn’t quite his dream job, even though he did meet his future bride, Jennifer, while working there.

“I started doing some building projects while still working my other job. It came down to a decision of choosing one over the other. I chose building,” he said. “I started out building houses with a neighbor of mine. He wanted to start his own company as well, so it worked out perfectly that we teamed up for a couple homes.”

Pawlak notes that it was daunting to step away from a six-figure salary to become his own boss in a completely different field. That first year out, his salary was less than $10,000. It didn’t take long, however, until he had surpassed his former job’s income — by a long shot.

Continued on page 14


BUiLDER PROFiLE Continued from page 13

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For the Love of ItBut that’s not why he does it. Pawlak simply loves building

homes — being on the site every day and knowing all the details about each home. “I don’t build spec homes. I like doing custom homes, building them exactly like the client wants. It’s their house, and they can have anything they want,” he said.

Pawlak believes in continuing education to keep current on state building laws, local construction ordinances, building trends and methods. He insists that the people who work for him keep current and informed on codes, techniques and good business practices as well.

Pawlak is the immediate past president of the Chippewa Valley Home Builders Association. He said the experience was pivotal in opening his eyes to the needs of his fellow builders and the close working relationship with government agencies.

“Our builders and developers that provide Chippewa Valley residents with single-family and multi-family housing believe that the requirements are the same whether they are working in Eau Claire or Eagle Point,” he said. “We welcome a working partnership with local government that provides consistency and a clear level of expectation.” Pawlak says he tries to communicate straightforward expectations, thus streamlining the permitting process and minimiz-ing costly delays that contribute to higher cost of housing.

“The people in the Chippewa Valley Home Builders Association work extremely hard. They give so much to the community, and often behind the scenes. People don’t see it,” he said.

Accessible Housing Draws AttentionPawlak Construction was recognized by United Cerebral Palsy

as the 2004 Business of the Year for work in barrier-free housing. It came on the heels of a job he got quite by accident. A couple from his home town were searching for a builder to help them create a home in which they could live and grow older. Their needs were different than most, however, as both of them were in wheelchairs. By the time they found Pawlak, they had been turned down by a dozen builders.

“They asked me if it bothered me that they were in wheelchairs. I said ‘Why? Should it?’ I just saw two nice people who needed help building a house,” said Pawlak. He says the experience was a posi-tive one all the way around, with the couple spending time on the site, sharing their thoughts and needs throughout the design process and, eventually, becoming friends with Dennis and his family.

“The satisfaction I felt completing their home was great,” said Pawlak. “Jason and Julie’s home was a challenge for me, but it

was fun. We were creating something they really needed — the place they would live their lives every single day. They still visit us and we’ve become friends.”

The other benefit of doing this niche job was the referrals Pawlak has received. The local newspaper did a large pictorial on the project, which added some great exposure. “It really got our name out there, and I know we’ll be getting future business from it, but I didn’t take the job expecting any of that,” Pawlak said.

Giving Back Is Good For BusinessPawlak believes in doing extra work in his community, not

only because it’s the right thing to do, but also because of the dual benefits it provides. Philanthropic or donated work, he says, comes back many times over in the form of a positive profes-sional image, trust among clients and many referrals.

“It benefits me by positive word of mouth if people see me in the news or papers. And my involvement in the CVHBA lets people know that I was trusted enough to lead the 450 members of the association,” noted Pawlak.

In addition to the handicap-accessible homes he builds, Pawlak is passionate about building completely custom homes for his clients in a mid-price range. “Whatever they want, I will do. Right now we are building three to four homes per year ranging from $170,000 to $300,000. That’s a comfortable number for me. I am very hands-on, and I am a builder who actually builds,” he said.

Taking Challenges Head OnPawlak is challenged by the fact that more potential home

buyers are seeking bids from numerous builders before making their decisions. He said, “There are a lot more people in the area bidding projects out. Rather than checking with one or two, they’ll ask 10 to 12 builders to bid on a job.” Pawlak says this added competition can create some misinformation on the quality of the project a homeowner may be getting. He feels buyers need to understand that a good quality project may cost $10,000 to $20,000 more, but they have to compare apples to apples.

To set his work apart, Pawlak provides potential customers with a list of references and sets up appointments to view homes of past clients. “I let my former and my potential clients talk and share. Seeing is believing,” he said.

Pawlak said that when he can, he does work for other builders in the area. His love of working and being in the field leads him to help out on certain jobs, and in turn, his associates in the business have come to his aid on several homes. “I have no problem building for others. I like being in the field doing everything. It makes every day a new challenge. It’s what makes this job fun.

“If you don’t enjoy your job, you’re missing out. I would recom-mend to builders who are going through slow times to stay focused, keep your head up, and don’t be ashamed to go work for someone else. Here in Chippewa Valley, we help each other out,” said Pawlak.

Pawlak credits his success to loving what he does. “I’m not above installing a door for a client, or doing a deck or building a garage. I put the same attention to detail on my remodeling jobs that I do on my custom homes. I make sure things are done the right way,” he said.

When not on the job, Pawlak enjoys being a co-director of the Eau Claire Soccer Tournament, working with 100-plus teams. His two other children, 9-year-old Kerigan and 5-year-old Ethan, love spending time on the job site with their father. Brendon, on the other hand, would much rather get up at 5 a.m. to deliver papers. X

Local Happenings

Leadership a Family Affair at Golden SandsAt the Golden Sands HBA Installation and Award Banquet, 2007-08 President Jeff Krupka was sworn in as president by his father and GSHBA Past President John Krupka.

Wisconsin Badger Builder • January/February 2008 • www.wisbuild.org16

Madison’s Green Built Home Makeover ProjectPartnering with the WBA Foundation, Madison’s Green Built Home Makeover upgraded a severely deficient home into a model for environmental-friendly homes. A tremendous amount of time and materials were donated by members to make this project a success. Pictured at the kick-off to the Green Built Home Makeover: (Back row) Project Manager Roger Schink (Holley-Schink Design Builders LLC), MABA President Don Esposito (Veridian Homes LLC), Project Manager Abe Degnan (Degnan Design Builders Inc.). (Front row) Dave Borski (Presenting Sponsor MG&E), Hazel Tookes (homeowner).

Brown County’s Veteran EOBrown County Home Builders Association Executive Officer Mari McAllister-Charles celebrates 15 years with the association. Mari was joined by former past presidents of the last 15 years.

South Central Helps Form New LocalHere’s one of SCWBA’s proudest accomplishments: the new chapter in Green County, South West WI Home Builders Association. This is a picture from their first General Membership Meeting on Oct. 25 at the Heritage House in Monroe. Here are the charter builder members with their president, Ron Starmer, holding the Charter plaque from NAHB. 1st row: Scott Austin (Scott Austin Builders), Dennis Thoman (TC Construction), President Ron Starmer (D-H Builders), Ryan Schutte (S & S Construction), Steve Pink (Steve Pink Woodworking). 2nd Row: Mike Scott (D & M Homes), Thor Thompson (Bruni-Miller Construction), Todd Wedig (Wedig Construction Inc.), Guy Calkins (Guy’s Home Improvement), Dan Henke (D-H Builders), Vice President Jay Pfarr (Home Craft Construction), Jon Pfarr (Home Craft Construction), Shawn Amacher, Troy Ludwig (T Ludwig Construction), Cecil Carl (A 1 Quality Homes LTD).

Wolf River HBAWBA Past President Frank Madden of M.D. Custom Homes inducted Randy Bohm of Bohm Builders as our president. Randy is the owner of Bohm Builders, which was established in 1973 and currently has offices in Shawano and Lakewood. Randy was a charter member of WRBA and is co-chair on our membership committee. Also sworn in were our board of directors. WRBA Board of Directors include: President-Elect Gary Felckowski of Gary’s Doors and

Service, Treasurer Steve Grover of Kerber, Rose and Associates and Secretary Jill Birr of Ace Hardware, Shawano. Our builder directors are John Maule of Maule Construction LLC, Terry Westphal of Home Tech Builders, Bill Rapaich of Top Shelf Builders and Jim Torborg of Torborg-Shawano. Our associate directors are Jim Foreman of Associated Bank, Mike Lewens of Maverick Graphx, Bryan Gagnon of B&J Custom Graphics, Kathy Hoeft of Quality Images Inc., Cap Wallrich of Wallrich Agency and Tim Coffey of Floors Unlimited.

Be sure to check the schedule of events for your local association.

Continued on page 18

LOCaL assOCIatIOn Parade Of HOmes HOme sHOW GOLf OutInG

Brown county Spring ‘08: Mar. 1, 2 and 6-9 Jan. 17-20, 2008 2008 tBD

central WI 2008 tBD WI Rapids Home Show: March 8-9, 2008 - Marshfield Home Show: tBA

2008 tBD

chippewa valley June 7-15, 2008 Feb. 28 - March 2, 2008 May 12, 2008-Home Builders Invitational; July 10, 2008 Summer Golf Outing

Door county Showcase of Homes Parade - May 8, 9, 16, 17 & 18, 2008

March 28 & 29, Stone Harbor conference center

Sept. 2008

Fond du Lac July 18-27, 2008 March 28-30, 2008 Aug. 1, 2008

Golden Sands June 6,7,8 & 9, 2008 Feb. 23 & 24, 2008 - Holiday Inn & convention center

July 15, 2008

Headwaters ---- ---- 2008 tBD

Heart of the North 2008 tBD Feb. 16-17, 2008 - cameron High 2008 tBD

La crosse June 21, 22, 25-29, 2008 March 7-9, 2008 July 16, 2008

Lakeland July 26-27 & Aug. 2-3 March 29-30, 2008 2008 tBD

Madison June 7-22 Feb. 29 - March 2,2008 tBD, July 2008

Manitowoc June 19-22, 2008 March 28-30, 2008 Aug. 6, 2008

Metropolitan Aug. 16 - Sept. 7 Jan. 10-13 June 16

Mid-Shores 2008 tBD ---- ----

Mid-WI ---- Feb. 8-10, 2008 June 2008

Northland 2008 tBD ---- 2008 tBD

Racine-Kenosha Sept. 6,7,10,12,13,14 ---- June 12, 2008

Sheboygan cty 2008 tBD April 4, 5, 6, 2008 June 18, 2008

South central WI 2008 tBD Feb. 15-17, 2008 June 19, 2008

St croix valley tour of Homes: 2008 tBD Home & Remodel Show: Jan. 25-27, 2008, Knowles center, River Falls

2008 tBD

valley Jan. 26-27, Jan. 31- Feb 3, 2008; condos June ‘08; Summer Parade, Aug. ‘08

March 6-9, 2008 June 2008, Aug. 2008

Wausau Area April 26-27, 2008 June 17-22, 2008 June 27, 2008 (changed from June 20)

Winnebago Apr. 18-20 & 24-27, 2008 Feb. 8-10, 2008 2008 tBD

Wolf River ---- ---- ----

Wisconsin Badger Builder • January/February 2008 • www.wisbuild.org 17

18

Continued from page 17

LOCaL assOCIatIOn InstaLLatIOn BBW GeneraL memBersHIP meetInG

LOCaL BOard meetInG OtHer events eduCatIOn

Brown county Dec. 7, 2007-KI conv. center, downtown

2008 tBD 2nd tuesday in May/Sept/Oct/Nov

1st Wednesday of each month

Sporting clays tBD ----

central WI Nov. 13, 2007 2008 tBD tBD 2nd tuesday Dec. 2007-Holiday Party ----

chippewa valley 2008 tBD 2008 tBD 2nd tuesday 4th tuesday Dec. 7, 2007-christmas Party at the Plaza; Summer Picnic-tBD

Nov. 13, 2007, at cvHBA Office

Door county Dec. 13, 2007 ---- 2nd thursday 1st Wednesday christmas Party: Dec. 13, 2007 ----

Fond du Lac Sept. 17, 2008 2008 tBD 3rd Wednesday No June/July/Aug

1st tuesday clay Shoot-April 26, 2008; Homes of Our Own-April 22-25

consumer education- Beaver Dam, Feb. 5,12,19, 26

Golden Sands 2008 tBD April 15, 2008 3rd tuesday, No Aug 3rd tuesday Dec. 18, 2007-Holiday Party ----

Headwaters 2008 tBD ---- 2nd tues/Wed/thur; No June/July/Aug

2nd tues/Wed/thur; before GMM

Whitetails unlimited Banquet, 2008 tBD

----

Heart of the North 2008 tBD ---- 2nd thursday 1st thursday christmas Party: Dec. 1, 2007 ----

La crosse Sept. 16, 2008 2008 tBD 3rd tuesday; No June/July/Dec 3rd tuesday ---- Lunch ‘n Learn & Builder Breakfasts: every month

Lakeland Dec. 14, 2007 Nov. 1, 2007 3rd Wednesday No June/July/Aug

2nd Wednesday No Aug.

Whitetails unlimited Banquet, 2008 tBD

Lunch ‘n Learn: Last tuesday of Month

Madison tBD, Dec. 2008 tBD 1st Monday of Feb/Apr/May/Sept

3rd Wednesday Spring Showcase, April 12-13,19-20,26-27; Parade of condos, July 26-Aug 3

tBD

Manitowoc Dec. 5, 2007- Fox Hills Resort

Aug. 21, 2008 4th thursday No June/July/Nov/Dec

2nd thursday Sporting clays, Sept. 2008; Bowl-A-thon, Feb. 2008

Awake to Learn seminars the 2nd Wednesday of each month

Metropolitan Nov. 2007 ---- 2008 tBD 2nd Wednesday ---- 2008 tBD

Mid-Shores Dec. 7, 2007-Milhome Super club, Install & christmas Party

Dec. 7, 2007-Live Auction

2nd tuesday No June/July/Aug

2nd tuesday 2008 tBD ----

Mid-WI 2008 tBD tBD 2nd tuesday; No July/Aug 3rd tuesday ---- ----

Northland Nov. 7, 2007 2008 tBD 1st Wednesday, 3rd thursday 3rd Wednesday Holiday Bash/Silent Auction, Dec. 2008 Monthly

Racine-Kenosha Dec. 11, 2007- Roma Lodge

tBD 3rd Wednesday No June/Dec

1st Wednesday Spring tour of Homes with Metro - April 19-May 4, 2008

Monthly

Sheboygan cty 2008 tBD 2008 tBD 3rd Wednesday No June/July/Aug

1st tuesday No July

---- ----

South central WI Dec. 11, 2007 Silent Auction - Oct. 23, 2007

4th tuesday of the month, No GMMs in June/July/Aug

2nd tuesday 2008 tBD 2008 tBD

St croix valley Dec. 18, 2007- R&D Banquet Hall, New Richmond

2008 tBD Last tuesday No June/Aug/Nov

Monthly, one week prior to GMM

Annual Fishing tournament: 2008 tBD Lunch ‘n Learn: Nov. 6

valley Sept. 4 No 2007 event; April 2008

First tuesday No June/July/Aug; Dec. is Holiday Party

Last tuesday Holiday Party, Nov. 30, 2007 various: visit vhba.com for schedule

Wausau Area Oct. 16, 2008 April 17, 2008 3rd thursday No Dec/June/July/Aug

3rd tuesday ---- ----

Winnebago 2008 tBD 2008 tBD 2nd Wednesday No June/July/Aug

2nd Wednesday Whitetails Banquet, Nov. 8, 2007; Holiday Party, Jan. 18, 2008

----

Wolf River ---- ---- 2nd tuesday 2nd tuesday ---- ----

Wisconsin Badger Builder • January/February 2008 • www.wisbuild.org18

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