Building More Than Homes: The Importance of Strengthening Builder–Community Relationships in Lincoln
As President of the Home Builders Association of Lincoln (HBAL), I often remind myself, and our members, we are not just builders of homes. We are builders of neighborhoods, advocates for families and partners in shaping Lincoln’s future.
The relationship between a builder and the community goes far beyond concrete and rebar. Every home we construct adds a layer of trust, quality and integrity that reflects our commitment to the people who live here. Whether it’s a starter home for a young family, a custom home for a retiree or a development which transforms a once vacant lot into a vibrant street, our members play a vital role in improving our community’s quality of life.
Dan Klein, Sr.
Herb Reese
Roger Reynolds
Mike Rezac
Denny Van Horn
Lori Wellman
HBAL Staff
Michaela Schwarten, Jennie Korth, Laure Husmann
One of the most powerful aspects of our work is our homes don’t leave town. We live in the homes we build, send our kids to the same schools and shop at the same stores. Our members aren’t just business owners, they’re neighbors. Which is why HBAL holds itself to a high standard of ethics, quality and service.
As we continue into 2025 and beyond, I encourage all HBAL members to see every job as an opportunity to build relationships, not just residences. Let’s continue to lead by example, showing Lincoln our builders are partners in progress.
Because in the end, we’re not just constructing homes, we’re helping build Lincoln and the community around us.
June
June 12
June 18
Build Your Future Workforce at the Governor’s Youth Summit
Thursday, August 14, 2025
Younes Conference Center North | 707 Talmadge St., Kearney, NE 68845
This landmark event will bring together high-potential students from across the state for a day designed to spark real-time career and educational connections.
The Impact
The Governor’s Youth Summit is not a traditional career fair—it’s a relational experience to match Nebraska’s most promising young talent and most influential industry leaders. Participating organizations will have the opportunity to offer:
• Internships & apprenticeships
• Part-time or full-time employment
• Scholarships or academic incentives
• Military, skilled trades, and STEM opportunities
These opportunities will be offered in real-time during the event, establishing immediate connections between students and employers/colleges.
Thank you for your commitment to Nebraska’s future. We hope to see you in Kearney this August!
How to Engage
Colleges and Businesses
1. Create or update your profile on CareerPathway.com.
Use code GovSummit2025 to unlock FREE Premium access through August 15, 2025. (How to Sign Up Overview).
2. Post your career/educational opportunities We’ll match students to these opportunities and facilitate their introduction to you.
3. Participate in the event by Registering Here Participation is limited. Sign up now while space is still available!
3. Discover opportunities in your area of interest.
4. Apply for opportunities you find on CareerPathway.com.
5. After a successful connection, you’ll be contacted by organizers for final details.
Parents, Mentors and Educators
1. Encourage students to sign up!
2. Spread the word!
Remodelers Council:
May Board Report
Remodelers did not hold a meeting in April. The topic for May’s meeting is “Building Connections: Networking & Self-Marketing for Remodelers & Trade Professionals.” This panel discussion is open to all HBAL members and will be held at the HBAL office next Tuesday, May 13. The annual picnic is June 18 and the Remodelers Council Golf Tournament on August 15.
Membership Committee:
The following new members were approved.
• ABC Supply Co, Pavel Omar Sponsor: Dan Loeck
• All Pro Heating and A/C, Constantine Syniy Sponsor: Jeff White
• Eldon Construction, LLC, Jeremiah Dickinson Sponsor: Scott Lockard
• Junk King Lincoln, Bill Kovarik Sponsor: Dan Loeck
HOMEPAC:
HOMEPAC supported Jerry Shoecraft, Tom Beckius, Sändra Washington, Stan Parker and Bennie Shobe. The winners for the at-large City Council seats were: Tom Beckius, Sändra Washington and Bennie Shobe.
LTU Sidewalks:
In 2022, HBAL met with Lincoln Transportation and Utilities (LTU) regarding sidewalk inspections and LTU facilitating inspections instead of
Building & Safety. This year LTU has begun requiring a post pour inspection. Jereme Montgomery, Michaela Schwarten and Beau Daffer will be meeting with LTU on 5/20 to discuss requirements.
Construction Career Day:
This year’s attendance was 328 high school students from all LPS schools as well as Milford, Raymond Central, Millard, and Heartland Homeschoolers. Largest showing for the event.
Northeast High School's 31st Home Build dedication is May 14, 4-6 p.m. at 1038 Furnas Ave. This is the only high school program in Lincoln that builds a home.
City Council Members Visit Parade Homes
During the recent Spring Parade of Homes, BIC Custom Homes, LLC and Smetter Homes opened their Parade entries to visit with City Council members Tom Beckius, Bennie Shobe, Justin Carlson and Sändra Washington. Touring the homes allowed Council members to see newly constructed homes and gave them the opportunity to ask questions about the process of building a home.
Pictured (from left): Matt Kirkland (Giving Realty), Ann Post (Rembolt Ludtke, LLP), Chad Blahak (Building & Safety), Bennie Shobe, Justin Carlson, Tom Beckius, Sändra Washington, Michaela Schwarten (HBAL), Katie Bohlmeyer (Lincoln Chamber of Commerce) and Liz Elliott (Lincoln Transportation & Utilities).
Participate in a Foundation Event
The Lincoln Home Builders Care Foundation supports HBAL’s educational and charitable efforts by funding housing-related community projects, scholarships for students entering the building industry, and other industry-related education programs.
Participating in a Foundation fundraiser is more than just supporting a good cause — it’s a smart business move.
• Get Your Name Out There
Business recognition on signage at the event and in the Lincoln Business Builder.
• Build Connections
These events attract ideal people to network with, share what you do and generate new leads.
• Build a Good Reputation
Shows you care about the community and support local causes, which builds trust with customers.
• Treat Clients & Employees
Invite clients or reward employees with a day on the course — it strengthens relationships and boosts morale.
Clay
Building a Stronger Community: $414,000 and Counting
The Lincoln Home Builders Care Foundation has contributed more than $414,000 to various community service projects since 2010.
Annual Foundation Projects
• Scholarships
• Santa Cop
• High School Interior / Residential Design Contests
• $186,876
Community Support Projects
• Local High School Construction Programs
• Habitat for Humanity
• Local Non-Profits
• Member Causes & Projects
• Disaster Relief
• $228,049
Member News
Our sympathy to Jordan & Rachel Kreifels, Action Plumbing, Heating, A/C & Electrical, on the death of Jordan's grandfather, Jim Kreifels, who passed away on June 1, 2025.
On behalf of Norris High School and the organizers of the 2025 SkillsUSA Car Show, we would like to extend our deepest thanks for your generous sponsorship and support.
Thanks to your contribution, this year’s event was a tremendous success. Your support helped us bring together students, families and car enthusiasts from across the community for a fun and engaging experience. With your help, we were able to provide gifts, promotional materials and create a memorable day for all who attended. We are truly grateful for your partnership and hope that you enjoyed being a part of this exciting event. We look forward to the opportunity to work together again in the future. Thank you once again for your generous support.
Sincerely, Norris SkillsUSA
Any Brick You Use Can Last for Hundreds of Years. So Be Particular.
YANKEE HILL BRICK manufactures the highest quality FBX brick in a color palette ranging from the traditional reds and buffs to the innovative pinks, maroons, and lavenders.
Standard and custom color ranges, sizes, and shapes are our specialty. Brick murals and ornamentation are brought to a new level of sophistication at Yankee Hill Brick.
Rely on Yankee Hill to supply your project with the finest of materials.
Face brick
Paving brick
Thin brick veneer
Pool Coping
Keystones
Stone
Brick mural & ornamentation
Crushed landscape brick
3705 S. Coddington Lincoln, NE 68522 (402) 477-6663
Advertise HERE
Ads can be linked directly to your website, social media channel or email address.
For more information, contact Jennie at 402-423-4225 or jennie@hbal.org.
HBAL Member Spotlight
Erin Barr Owner
Home Innovations Spas, Inc.
ekstubsoffun@gmail.com | 402-209-0490
Tell us about your family. Wife, Karen. Daughter, Alyson. Son, Jackson.
When you’re not working, how do you enjoy spending your time? Traveling, rock crawling, boating.
What do you love the most about your job? Helping people to relax and connect with family and friends in their homes and backyards.
How long have you been a member of HBAL? Home Innovations Spas has been a member since 1993.
To be considered for the next Member Spotlight, click here.
SelecTxt: Inspection Scheduling Instructions
In a Hurry? Try these express commands and schedule your next inspection in one text message!
Schedule by Text
1. Text one of the following commands:
“SCHEDULE” to schedule an inspection
“RESCHEDULE” to reschedule an inspection “CANCEL” to cancel an inspection
“RESULTS” to obtain inspection results
2. Send it to 888-405-9508 to opt in to recieving messages and begin scheduling.
3. Follow the interactive prompts for entering your permit number and inspection code (see list below).
Building/Plan
Review
PARADE of Homes
Firestone Remodelers Council Chairperson
We had an excellent turnout for our May meeting, featuring a panel discussion on how to grow our businesses through building lasting partnerships and techniques to stand out in the highly competitive construction market. As we seek ways to foster more relationships within the industry, I challenge all of you to invite another contractor to one of our upcoming meetings. Whether it's someone new to HBAL and the Remodlers Council or someone who used to belong and needs to be reconnected, we can all benefit from leveraging each other's networks and meeting new potential partners. With summer just around the corner, it’s time for a picnic. The Remodelers Council’s annual picnic will be June 18 at the HBAL office. Come celebrate summer, enjoy a bite to eat and put some of the networking tools from our May meeting into action. If you can’t make the picnic in June, be sure to add the Remodeler’s Council Golf Tournament to your calendar. This year’s tournament will be on August 15 at Homes Golf Course. See you on the 18th! Matt
Welcome New Members
Eldon Construction, LLC
Jeremiah Dickinson
3534 S. 51st Street, Lincoln, NE 68506
Phone: 308-940-1495
Email: eldonconstruction97@gmail.com
Web: eldonrose.com
Sponsor: Scott Lockard, Hampton Enterprises | Properties & Construction
Character matters when building with Eldon Construction. We offer comprehensive residential construction services: new builds, additions, remodeling, decks and more. Owner Jeremiah Dickinson is on site working alongside his crews, ensuring quality, safety and effectiveness of his projects. Building a reputable business known for their honest and servanthearted character is what makes Eldon Construction a builder and contractor you will find dependable and enjoyable to work with.
ABC Supply Co., Inc.
Pavel Omar
2233 Production Drive, Roca, NE 68430
Phone: 402-405-7932
Email: pavel.omar@abcsupply.com
Web: abcsupply.com
Sponsor: Dan Loeck, Loeck Designs
All Pro Heating and Air Conditioning, Inc.
Constantine Syniy
5831 N. 58th Street, Ste. 4, Lincoln, NE 68507
Phone: 402-405-2959 Cell: 402-525-2806
Email: allprolincoln@gmail.com
Web: allprolincoln.com
Sponsor: Jeff White, Aqua Systems
Fritz + Lloyd Interiors Becky Rea
8907 S. 83rd Street, Lincoln, NE 68516
Phone: 402-261-3161
Email: becky@fritzandlloyd.com
Web: fritzandlloyd.com
Sponsor: Matt Kleinschmit, Pride Homes
Fritz + Lloyd Interiors is a modern, full-service interior design studio based in Lincoln, Nebraska. Since 2016, we’ve specialized in highend residential design for new construction, remodels and full furnishings, including kitchens, baths and custom furniture + decor. We go out of our way to truly listen to our clients, ensuring each space reflects their style and needs. Our mission is to create approachable, elevated interiors through a clear, thoughtful process rooted in respect, collaboration and great execution. Serving Lincoln, Omaha and surrounding areas, we design homes that feel personal, refined and effortlessly livable.
Welcome New Members
Highlander Contracting Group, LLC
Joe Benes
511 Morman Trail, Lincoln, NE 68521
Phone: 402-617-0365
Email: joe@buildhighlander.com
Web: buildhighlander.com
Sponsor: Herb Reese, Reese Construction, Inc.
Highlander Contracting specializes in high-quality custom homes, residential construction projects, and large scale renovation projects. With years of industry experience, Highlander Contracting is dedicated to delivering exceptional craftsmanship and attention to detail on every project. From new builds to renovations, we work closely with clients to bring their visions to life, ensuring each home is not only beautiful but built to last. Focused on personalized service and unmatched quality, Highlander Contracting transforms spaces into dream homes that stand the test of time.
Junk King Lincoln
Bill Kovarik
3900 S. 6th Street, Ste. 9, Lincoln, NE 68502
Phone: 402-256-6937 Cell: 402-853-4195
Email: bill.kovarik@junk-king.com
Web: junk-king.com/locations/lincoln
Sponsor: Dan Loeck, Loeck Designs
TOP-NOTCH JUNK HAULING FOR HOMES AND BUSINESSES
Junk King provides a top-rated, fast, safe and eco-friendly disposal service at affordable prices to make the whole process easy for you. Our experienced team will have the manpower to haul off your items without damaging any of your home or business on the way out.
We will dispose of your junk properly, recycling up to 60% of every job. We are the only national junk removal company with sorting facilities in our locally owned locations. We sort, reuse, recycle and donate as much as we can to be a responsible waste removal partner for a better tomorrow.
Directory Changes
Nicki Behmer Popp, Brenda Donner, Derek Hilgert, Dawson Linder and Ariana Munro, Provision Realty Group at RE/MAX Concepts are no longer affiliate members.
Ben Swanson is no longer an affiliate member with Rembolt Ludtke, LLP.
LifeStyles Realty Group Realty One Group Sterling is now Black Tie Realty Email: susan@blacktiene.com. Web: blacktierealtyne.com.
Katie Ulrich and Brad Ulrich, Home Real Estate, are no longer affiliate members.
Bill Catlett, Nebraska Realty, is no longer an affiliate member.
Jim Lund is the new principal contact for Black Hills Energy.
New address for Home Guardian is 5030 S. 16th Street, Ste. 19, Lincoln, NE 68512.
Malakai Patrick is the new principal contact for J-Tech Construction & Solar. Email: mpatrick@jtechconst.com.
Keystone Homes is now Sierra Builders. Phone: 402-405-7762. Email: chad@sbgne.com. Web: mysierrabuild.com.
Jordan Koster is the new principal contact for Mead Lumber Company
Kari Mroz is a new affiliate member with The Schmeits Agency – Farm Bureau Financial Services. Email: kari.mroz@fbfs.com. Brinley Merwick is no longer an affiliate member.
• Benjamin Poutre is a new affiliate member with ABC Supply Co., Inc..
27 Years
• CKFConsolidated Kitchens
20 Years
• Lincoln Winlectric
19 Years
• Stonebrook Exterior
18 Years
• King's Inspections, LLC
16 Years
• Buckley & Sitzman, LLP
• Hoos & Suing
13 Years
• Patriot Plumbing
11 Years
• Olson Drafting & Design
10 Years
• Miller Builders, LLC
5 Years
• Sampson Residential Properties
4 Years
• Concrete Craft of Lincoln
3 Years
• Koala Insulation of Lincoln
• Merritt Concrete
If you see your company listed below, contact HBAL at 402-423-4225 to
