Highlights from HBAGC
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Peter Schwartz
Chief Executive Officer
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The NAHB Fall Board of Directors meeting that I recently attended was an epiphany. We have been going along with the expectation that the market would begin to turn in relatively short order providing that the economy did not go into a recession and the Federal Reserve would marginally adjust rates to accommodate the growing need for liquidity in the financial and construction loan markets. I returned with a much clearer vision of what is in store in the short term. Our industry is in for a much longer haul than originally anticipated by the economists who track our growth and cycles. I did not necessarily view this from a negative perspective but rather from one that validates the growing need for our association to remain strong and to accelerate its proactive outreach to members, the industry and our metropolitan communities at large.
We are definitely not alone. The entire country is facing these same challenges. At the board meeting I convened with my counterparts from all over the country, and we have resolved to work collectively to maximize the effectiveness of our core benefits, programs and information services to be used to minimize the impact of the down cycle on our collective markets. I personally believe that 2008 will be a challenging year for our industry. I want our members to know that their association is gearing up to meet those challenges both directly and most importantly as a resource and safe harbor for all members through rapid response and the provision of information and assistance you need to make the right choices in business.
Next week we will have two very unique Builder After Hours. On September 20th the Regional After Hours will be Clue-themed (view the video invitation for this event) and the McHenry County After Hours on the 25th will include a pig roast and extreme BAGGO. We look forward to seeing you there!
Don't forget! The HBAGC website is a membership tool. New event information is continually being posted. Event Descriptions, online registration where applicable, maps and directions are available.
Have a question about a Chapter or Council? View a full list of our staff members and their contact information and responsibilities.
Member Benefit of the Week
We’ve teamed up with DHL, Yellow Transportation, and Roadway Express. Whether you ship envelopes, packages, crates, or pallets, these carriers can provide a solution. By enrolling in the Discount Shipping Program, you can save on your inbound, outbound, and third party shipments. There are no costs or obligations involved. To sign up, call 1-800-MEMBERS (636-2377) and ask for Extension 303. For more information, visit www.1800Members.com/NAHB. As the worldwide leader in express shipping, DHL handles more packages and envelopes than FedEx and UPS, servicing over 220 countries and territories. NAHB members can save up to 25% with DHL.
Attainable Housing Alliance
Is there an issue impeding your development? If so, chances are it also affects others in the home building industry. Contact the Attainable Housing Alliance at (630) 932-2304 and let us help you be part of the solution. Visit the Attainable Housing Alliance on the web.
HomeAid Chicago
HomeAid is pleased to announce a new project with Little City Foundation. The existing home renovation will include adding an ADA compliant bath, new HVAC system, new hot water tank, and raising a sunken living room floor. The Hanover Park house will be home to six developmentally disabled adults.
Orren Pickell Designers & Builders has generously completed the architectural plans for the project. The Chicago Regional Council of Carpenters, Professional Plumbing, Service Drywall & Decorating, Griffin & Associates, Mid America Tile, Air-Rite Heating & Cooling, Local #134 IBEW & the National Electrical Contractors Associations, JMS Electric, and Painters Collaborative have all joined us on this project. If you would like to get involved, please email Natalie Ashton. To stay up to date on our progress on this home and other projects, please visit HomeAid's website at www.homeaidchicago.org.