Sand Creek Post & Beam Awarded
Sand Creek Post & Beam of Wayne, Nebraska has been awarded “2008 Large Business of the Year” by the Wayne Area Economic Development Inc. at their Annual Chamber Banquet on January 25th.  The award is based on nominations from the community with regard to their size (large is regarded as 11 or more full time employees) and service to the community by the owners, employees, or the business itself. 

Dave Simonsen, Executive Director of Wayne Area Economic Development Inc. had this to say, "Sand Creek Post & Beam is an example of an entrepreneurial created and operated company that continues to set examples for other businesses. The company is a great addition to Wayne and a great partner in growing Wayne and the surrounding area. I look forward to watching the company's continued growth and success."
“We are honored to receive this award”, says Len Dickinson, co-owner of Sand Creek Post & Beam.  “Our experience in Wayne has been extremely rewarding; the community has been very welcoming and we’ve enjoyed the opportunity to build our business here.  Wayne has much to offer new businesses.  The availability of qualified individuals and resources has been indispensible in our continued success.”
Over the past few months, Sand Creek has also been privileged with visits from Nebraska Congressman Jeff Fortenberry and Nebraska Lieutenant Governor Rick Sheehy. Congressman Fortenberry called on the company to discuss concerns with Northeast Nebraska business owners. Sand Creek has been touted as one of the primary businesses in the area that has been doing well during these tough economic times. 

Lt. Governor Sheehy was an honored guest at the Sand Creek Post & Beam plant expansion project ground breaking ceremony. The expansion includes adding 2200 square feet to the original plant building as well as an additional 9,020 square foot facility. Growth and development throughout the company has also prompted the purchase and renovation of an existing office building in Wayne to provide a new headquarters for the Sand Creek Post & Beam corporate office.  
”Our customers are building a variety of structures from our kits; everything from a small barn or garage, horse barn, business office, and hunting lodge, to a complete home.  Post and beam construction is very versatile and the beauty of the wood is highlighted in these buildings,” says Len Dickinson, co-owner and President of Sand Creek Post & Beam.  

With an emphasis on quality and customer satisfaction, Sand Creek Post & Beam takes great pride in providing traditional barn kits that are functional, flexible, powerful and aesthetically pleasing.

Windmills Added to Product Line
Sand Creek Post & Beam of Wayne, Nebraska is excited to announce the addition of windmills to their extensive line of post and beam barn kits. 

The 19th century brought windmills to the American countryside, providing water and electricity to our rural areas.  Windmills are still in use across our nation, although not as extensively as in the past.  With today’s concern for our ecosystems, windmills are making a comeback in several different variations. Sand Creek Post & Beam wood tower windmills are historical replicas and feature Aermotor pump systems to be fully functional or as a picturesque focal point for your acreage.

The windmill towers feature post and beams in full dimension rough sawn ponderosa or southern yellow pine.  They are constructed with 6 x 6 posts with 4 x 4 bracing and are offered in 16’, 20’, and 24’ heights and can be shipped pre-assembled or disassembled as a package.  The kit includes a heavy duty wood tower platform, tower anchor plates and a ladder or step system.

We’re very pleased to bring these landmarks back to our rural landscape;” says Len Dickinson, co-owner of Sand Creek Post & Beam, “not only are they historic but they are very functional as well.  The historic beauty of our rural landscape has slowly slipped from us; our dream is to restore the rustic beauty of our heritage.”

Sand Creek Post & Beam Master Dealer in TX Awarded
Legacy Homestead Development, dba Cedar Eaters, has qualified as one of San Antonio’s fastest growing companies.  Cedar Eaters is owned by Stan and Pam Hegener of Boerne, TX.  They also own Sand Creek Post & Beam of Texas.   We’re proud to have them as one of our Master Dealers for Sand Creek Post & Beam Traditional Barn Kits.

Sand Creek Post & Beam Contributes to Arbor Day Foundation and Community

Sand Creek Post & Beam is pleased to be working with the National Arbor Day Foundation to help with reforestation.  “We are enjoying our association with such a fine organization” says Jule Goeller, co-owner and CFO of Sand Creek Post & Beam.  “Since we began our partnership with the Arbor Day Foundation in July of last year, we have provided almost 700 lodge pole pine or douglas fir trees in our customers’ names.”

The Arbor Day Foundation website notes that “the trees they plant provide habitat and food for wildlife, restore beauty to the landscape, clean rivers and stream, and provide enjoyment for recreational activities like camping, hiking, and fishing.  Over the course of 50 years, a single tree can generate $31,250 of oxygen, provide $62,000 worth of air pollution control, recycle $37,500 worth of water, and control $31,500 worth of soil erosion control.”

Sand Creek Post & Beam is also working with surrounding communities to donate their scrap wood pieces.  They have provided wood pieces for school shop classes in Allen, Pender, Wakefield, and Wisner-Pilger as well as the Pilger Purple Ribbon and Wayne 4-H groups in Nebraska.  The Nebraska Bluebird Association is also a recipient of the wood pieces which are used for new bluebird houses.  According to Cal Wiechman, Operations Manager of Sand Creek Post & Beam “we’re glad to have an outlet for the wood.   The pieces are very useful sizes and if someone can use them we’re happy to work with them.  If any local non-profit groups are interested, we would like to hear from them.  Our Cleveland, Georgia plant has not found an outlet yet, but we are looking into it and hope to find some local groups soon.”

Sand Creek Post & Beam has a nationwide presence with over 135 barns throughout the country in 34 states. ”Our customers are building a variety of structures from our kits; everything from a small barn or garage, horse barn, business office, and hunting lodge, to a complete home.  Post and beam construction is very versatile and the beauty of the wood is highlighted in these buildings,” says Len Dickinson, co-owner and President of Sand Creek Post & Beam.   With an emphasis on quality and customer satisfaction, Sand Creek Post & Beam takes great pride in providing traditional barn kits that are functional, flexible, powerful and aesthetically pleasing.

Sand Creek Post & Beam Announces New Associates for Growth
11/07:Sand Creek Post & Beam of Wayne, NE is pleased to welcome three new full-time associates to their corporate office.  Due to tremendous growth in 2007, two in-house dealers and a new office coordinator have been hired to provide our customers the personal service and attention they expect from Sand Creek.

Joni Heithold of Wayne, Nebraska joined the Sand Creek team on January 2nd as our new office coordinator.  Joni has resided in Wayne for over 20 years, but is originally from a small farm town in north central Iowa.  Joni brings with her a wealth of office experience, most recently at Farmers and Merchants State Bank. Prior to the bank, she was employed for 15 years with the Wayne Public School system.  Her family includes her husband, Mark, and two sons, Benjamin (19) and Derek (16).  “I’m very excited to be a part of this team and to learn more about post and beam construction.  I spent a lot of time in our barn as a child. It was a wonderful way to grow up and I’m very pleased to be a part of providing memories to a new generation.”

Brigitte Burbach, who joined our team in the fall as Office Coordinator, has been promoted to Accounting Coordinator and will be working very closely with the CFO and Plant Operations Managers.

Amy Wilson of Emerson, Nebraska joined our team as a Sand Creek Post & Beam in-house dealer in November.  She is responsible for the Iowa, Illinois, Missouri, and Wisconsin territories.  Amy has been involved with advertising sales in the Siouxland and Northeast Nebraska area for the past 15 years.  Along with her husband Gary, they own Wilson Horse Training in Emerson.  They have 3 children, daughters Audra and Emily, recent graduates of UNL, and a son, Britton, a mechanical engineer living in Lincoln, NE.  “My lifelong experience in the equine industry, time in the country and passion for sales, provide a perfect partnership for me.  I’m very excited to be a part of this team and am enthused about re-building our countryside with authentic post and beam buildings.”

Tami Schmitt-Wiese of Laurel, Nebraska joined the Sand Creek Post & Beam in-house dealer team in October.  She is responsible for the Michigan, New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Virginia, and West Virginia territories.  Tami received her MS from the University of North Carolina – Chapel Hill and has many years of experience with customer support and sales.  She currently resides in Laurel with her husband Tony and 3 daughters, Kayla (14), Cassidy (11), and Marissa (11).  “Having grown up in the rural Midwest, it is very rewarding to join a team so dedicated to preserving our past.  I lived on several acreages as a child and each one had an old barn with a lot of character.  Thinking back, they provide very vivid memories for me.”

“We’re very pleased to have the opportunity to work with such professionals”, says Len Dickinson, co-owner and President of Sand Creek Post & Beam.  “The experience and passion they exude provides a wonderful working environment to learn from each other, grow our company, and have a lot of fun along the way.”

Sand Creek Post & Beam Announces New Office Coordinator
8/07: Sand Creek Post & Beam is pleased to welcome Brigitte Burbach as the new Office Coordinator. Brigitte is replacing Leigh Anne Oswald whose husband received a teaching job in Iowa. Brigitte will be responsible for numerous duties ranging from accounting functions to coordination with our dealer system to ensure all processes are completed. As she continues to grow with the company she will be taking on more responsibilities in regard to human resources.

Brigitte recently graduated from Wayne State College with a degree in Business Administration with concentrations in Human Resource Management and Office Administration. She started with Sand Creek on August 6, 2007 and says "I am excited to work with such great people in this new endeavor in my life:. Brigitte is originally from Wynot, NE and currently resides in Wayne.

"Brigitte is quickly becoming a great asset to our company. She is very organized and will be invaluable in keeping our company focused as we strive for continual improvement in our processes. She has already proven herself with our customers and dealers with her easy conversation and attention to detail," says Jule Goeller, CFO of Sand Creek.

Sand Creek Post & Beam Expands to the Southeast
6/07: Sand Creek Post & Beam of Wayne, NE is excited to announce the addition of Sand Creek Post & Beam of the Southeast to our dealer network. Based out of Taylor, Georgia Marvin Hughes and Jones Cottrell will be covering the states of Mississippi, Alabama, Georgia, Florida, South Carolina, North Carolina, Tennessee, and Kentucky. Sand Creek Post & Beam of the Southeast is also the base for our 2nd manufacturing facility.

Marvin Hughes has been a builder for 40 years and has specialized in building barns for the past 12 years. A lifetime resident of Georgia, Marvin says "I am excited about the opportunity to apply my experience as the operations manager of Sand Creek Post & Beam of the southeast, ensuring that the tradition of beautiful quality wood barns is preserved in the southeastern states." "We will do our best to make each barn a work of art."

Jones Cottrell is best know as past president and partner of "The Fudgery". He was the primary force in developing the small company into a chain of entertaining candy stores throughout the country. Most recently he has been working as a custom builder and small tract developer in Hall County, Georgia. Like Marvin, he too has been a lifetime resident of the southeastern states, primarily in North Carolina and now Georgia. "This is a wonderful opportunity for Sand Creek Post & Beam to expand into the souther states and I'm excited to be a part of it. Post and beam barns are historic and tradiitonal throughout our beautiful countryside and Sand Creek Post & Beam barn kits continue in that tradition, renewing the craftsmanship of years gone by."

Sand Creek Post & Beam Article Wins Award!

The “Barn Again” newspaper article on Sand Creek Post & Beam written by Dave Dreezen of the Sioux City Journal has received a first-place award in the ''Business Features'' category for the 2007 Iowa Associated Press Managing Editors contest. The Sioux City Journal competed in the division of Iowa's largest daily newspapers.

The article was first printed in the Sunday issue of the Sioux City Journal on October 15, 2006 and again re-printed in the Sioux City Business Journal.

“We are pleased to extend our congratulations to Dave Dreezen and the Sioux City Journal on their award. We’re very proud that our barns were the feature of this award winning article” said Len Dickinson, President and Co-Owner of Sand Creek Post & Beam.

For more information on Sand Creek Post & Beam barns kits and dealer program contact:
Sand Creek Post & Beam | 215 North Pearl Street Suite 200 | Wayne NE 68787 | Phone 888-489-1680 or E-mail Us.

Sand Creek Post & Beam Announces Barn Name Change

The most popular Sand Creek Post & Beam barn will have a new name as of January 1, 2007. The "Nebraska Barn" or as it's known in Texas, the "Hill Country Barn" and in Kansas City as the "Legacy Barn", will now become the "Ponderosa Country Barn".

The Ponderosa Country barn is a collaboration of ideas from the Sand Creek Post & Beam corporate office and their dealers. In an effort to become consistent throughout the countryside and avoid any confusion as to which barn it is, a name change was needed. The previous names were regional and each area printed their own catalogs to reflect the name differences. The new name will be released with a new catalog that will be used by all Sand Creek Post & Beam dealers.

"Our company is growing significantly and in an effort to provide consistency and branding opportunities, this was the appropriate time for a name change," says Jule Goeller, owner along with her husband Len Dickinson. "Sand Creek Post & Beam barns are constructed from full dimension Ponderosa Pine, hence the name Ponderosa Country. This is our signature barn and it called for a name that would be fitting across the nation."

The Ponderosa Country barn style will not be changing; expect the same traditional, authentic, rustic look that you have seen in the past with our Nebraska barn. "We're looking forward to the start of an exciting new year with our new barn name and new catalog," says Goeller. It's always a pleasure to offer an opportunity to preserve our heritage and beautify the countryside while providing an affordable alternative to our customers.

For more information on Sand Creek Post & Beam barns kits and dealer program contact:
Sand Creek Post & Beam | 215 North Pearl Street Suite 200 | Wayne NE 68787 | Phone 888-489-1680 or E-mail Us.

Sand Creek Post & Beam Expanding Dealer Network

Sand Creek Post & Beam of Wayne, Nebraska is seeking to expand their dealer network. Currently the company is divided among five major regions but extensive growth has provided an opportunity to increase dealerships within and outside of these regions.

Sand Creek Post & Beam dealers are offered a competitive package that includes training opportunities, annual meetings, and monthly conference calls to discuss prospects and create a teamwork environment. Lead referrals to network dealers are provided from national publications, customer calls, and internet referrals as well as full marketing support including a coop advertising program. Complete plans and estimates for customers, along with engineering support for building permits and processes, are supplied from the corporate office. Utilization of a Sand Creek Post & Beam dealer start up kit, and the opportunity to purchase a full dimension model at cost, will boost dealer network business from the start. Sand Creek Post & Beam works closely with their dealer network to ensure mutual success.

"This is a ground floor opportunity for experienced builders and dealers with an unlimited potential for increased sales and market share. We're very excited to move forward in our expansion and provide our customers personal contact within their area" says Mandy Kubik, Sales Director for Sand Creek Post & Beam.

Sand Creek Post & Beam barn kits utilize authentic designs and full dimension, massive, native ponderosa pine posts and beams to bring the knotty, rustic authentic feel of an old barn to life. The barns may be sealed, stained, or painted to blend with current buildings or to replicate a barn of yesteryear such as an old family barn. From purchase origination to the materials on the customer's doorstep is approximately 60-90 days. Sand Creek Post & Beam prides itself on using native timbers and local craftsman to provide the excellence and quality of a traditional barn.

For more information on Sand Creek Post & Beam barns kits and dealer program contact:
Sand Creek Post & Beam | 215 North Pearl Street Suite 200 | Wayne NE 68787 | Phone 888-489-1680 or E-mail Us.

Sand Creek Post & Beam announces management additions

Sand Creek Post & Beam of Wayne, NE is pleased to announce the addition of associates to their management team. With the continued growth of the company, the corporate office of Sand Creek Post & Beam has expanded to include a Sales Director, Marketing Director, and Office Manager.

"Our accelerated growth has prompted the need for more associates throughout the company and we look to further expand over the next year," says Len Dickinson, co-owner of Sand Creek Post & Beam. "Our products are featured across the country and we continue to cultivate dealer partnerships throughout the US."

The Sand Creek Post & Beam plant is managed by Cal Wiechman, a native of Pilger, Nebraska. Cal carries the responsibility of plant manager/purchasing agent and has been with the company since 2005. Cal is a graduate of the University of Nebraska at Lincoln with a bachelor's degree in Agricultural Education and masters in Vocational Agriculture. Cal has had vast experience in the industry serving for many years at Builders Alliance in Bellingham, Washington. He held many positions at the company, with his last position as Relationship Manager for Industrial Sales before moving back to his hometown of Pilger. Cal and his wife Nancy reside in Pilger with their two children, Lucas (11) and Leah (8).

Mandy Kubik of Laurel assumed the position of Sales Director in June of 2006. Originally from Lincoln, Nebraska Ms. Kubik comes to the company with a wealth of sales experience. Most recently she was a Manager in Training at Rogers Jewelers in Lincoln. She and her fiancé, Jon Fredrickson of Laurel, are planning a November 25th wedding.

Laura Penlerick of Wayne joined the team as Marketing Director in August of 2006. A graduate of Iowa State University with a degree in Industrial Administration/Marketing Management concentration, she has many years of experience in the marketing field. Most recently she was an associate of Blue Ox in Pender, Nebraska filling numerous positions within the marketing team. She currently resides in Wayne with her husband Mark. Together they have 5 children, Jenni (20), Sara (18), and Jay (14) Schrader and Brittany (13) and Nicholas (11) Penlerick.

Leigh Anne Oswald became Sand Creek Post & Beam's new office manager in August of 2006. Leigh Anne recently graduated from Faith Baptist Bible College in Ankeny Iowa with an Associate of Arts degree in the Administrative Assistant Program. Leigh Anne is originally from Emmetsburg, Iowa and now resides in Laurel with her husband Kyle.

For information on Sand Creek Post & Beam barns kits contact:
Sand Creek Post & Beam | 215 North Pearl Street Suite 200 | Wayne NE 68787 | Phone 888-489-1680 or E-mail Us.

Sand Creek Post & Beam of Texas Exhibits at Builders Showcase!
Sand Creek Post & Beam of Texas was a premier exhibitor at the Builders Showcase in San Antonio Texas. The showcase was held at the Alamodome September 27 through October 1st.

Highlighting their exhibit was a complete authentic barn model featuring aspects of a full size barn such as: handcrafted windows and doors, a cupola, and flower boxes. The mini-barn was constructed of ponderosa pine posts and beams, complete with rustic knots and beautiful amber hue. Located in Boerne, Pam and Stan Hegener (Owners of Sand Creek Post & Beam of Texas and Authorized Dealer of Sand Creek Post & Beam) were pleased to provide the attendees of the showcase a first hand, up close and personal look at their traditional barn kits.

The exhibit was a great success. "The mini-barn exhibit was extremely busy, we were very satisfied with the response received from the attendees" said Pam Hegener. The exhibit itself was sold to a woman who was planning on giving it to her husband as an anniversary gift. There were several showcase attendees with interest in their own 'mini-barn' for projects such as backyard pool houses, garden sheds to a barbeque shed. very indication from the showcase response is that the Texas Hill Country is ready to beautify the countryside with Sand Creek Post & Beam barn kits."

Bud Reynolds, Sand Creek Post & Beam General Manager, is pleased to announce the hiring of Jack Dickinson as the new Business Development Manager.  Jack's main goal in a nutshell is to "grow the company".  Jack will specifically be focused on ten company objectives focused around increasing brand awareness, bringing in new customers, developing new marketing channels including some private labeling, and creating additional product lines.  Emphasis will be placed on both financial growth and consumer awareness of the product.   

The newly created position of Business Development Manager will also encompass developing new plans and strategies to help departments within Sand Creek run more effectively and efficiently.  Jack will be working with both Marketing and Sales to formulate, analyze and determine which strategies should be implemented to help the business run smoother. The management team will add new objectives, replacing those discarded or implemented by Sand Creek to always keep Sand Creek Post & Beam in a position for growth.  Jack will also be speaking with potential clients in the central part of the US in efforts to generate sales.   Jack comes to Sand Creek with a BA from Macalester College and most recently served as General Manager for Texas Timber Frames in San Antonio, TX.   He and his wife Cathy currently reside in Minneapolis, MN. 

Sand Creek Post & Beam has a nationwide presence with over 300 structures throughout the country and Canada.  "Our customers are building a variety of structures from our kits; everything from a small barn or garage, horse barn, business office, lodge, home or commercial building.  Post and beam construction is very versatile and the beauty of the wood is highlighted in these buildings," says Len Dickinson, co-owner and President of Sand Creek.   With an emphasis on quality and customer satisfaction, Sand Creek Post & Beam takes great pride in providing traditional barn kits that are functional, flexible, powerful and aesthetically pleasing.

Sand Creek Post & Beam of Wayne, NE is pleased to announce the appointment of Barry Blue as National Sales Director. Barry has over 30 years of experience in direct sales, primarily in the home improvement Industry. Barry spent (26) of those years with the Pacesetter Corporation, which was one of the largest privately held home improvement companies in the country, working his way from the position of factory representative to the Vice President/National Sales Director role that he held during the last (5) years of his tenure with Pacesetter.

"We're incredibly pleased to have Barry on board" says Len Dickinson, President and Co-Owner of Sand Creek Post & Beam. "I've known Barry since my high school days and it's splendid to be working with him after all these years. His expertise and knowledge is invaluable and we're excited to implement his professional team-oriented direction within our sales team."

Barry's background in direct sales has provided him with a wealth of knowledge in terms of dealing day to day with clients who have an interest in purchasing a Sand Creek product. He has a significant background in the development of both individuals who have little or no selling experience, and spent years building Sales Teams within organizations. He has been able to accomplish this primarily due to his ability to understand and deal with multiple personalities, thus allowing him to fully understand an individual and discover their strengths and weaknesses, then working diligently to educate and motivate that individual to reach levels of success that they did not feel they could achieve.

Barry received his BS in Education from USD and his MS in Education from UNL. He's been married for over 30 years and has 3 children. He currently lives in Omaha, NE. He's a member of the USD and UNL Alumni associations, the USD Howling Pack Athletic Association, USD Hall of Fame Football inductee and enjoys all types of sports, exercising, and time with his family.

"For me, joining the Sand Creek Post and Beam organization is truly very exciting. The Company and the product lines are exceptional. Additionally, my decision was influenced by the fact that I believe Sand Creek has a tremendous upside in terms of growth both nationally and internationally. The barns and the materials used to construct the barns, as well as the other product lines are meticulous and therefore when a barn is constructed our client's expectations are exceeded. Finally, having the opportunity to work closely again with an old friend and classmate, Len Dickinson, the founder of the company, and his wife Jule Goeller, really helped to make my decision an easy one. Most importantly, what I hope to have the most impact on at Sand Creek, is my ability to teach the "art of selling" to the many Dealers that Sand Creek has in place to service their Clientele. Because Sand Creek has such extraordinary products, this will aid me in the development of the Dealer's "selling skills", and provide me with the ability to work on growing Sand Creek's Sales organization one individual at a time, resulting in a very powerful direct sales organization" says Blue.

Sand Creek Post & Beam is proud to announce that Cody Wortmann has been awarded "Best Ad in the Issue" from Our Iowa magazine. The ad was judged as the most attractive, informative and appealing ad in their June/July 2010 issue. The ad is part of a new campaign of "My Barn, My Rules" for Sand Creek. Each ad focuses on custom features Sand Creek can provide customers to create their dream barn.

Cody was awarded a certificate and large chocolate bar stamped with the Our Iowa logo from Temptations by Joyce in Ames Iowa. "We couldn't be more pleased to have Cody at Sand Creek Post & Beam; his design work has taken us to a new level in our materials and website" says Jule Goeller, Co-owner with her husband Len Dickinson. "He's very creative and has a wonderful sense for our products."

Cody graduated from Wayne State College in May of 2009 with a B.S. in Graphic Design.  He had previously worked part-time in the Sand Creek plant while working toward his degree. Cody is originally from Newcastle NE and now resides in Wayne, NE with his wife Mallory and son, Owen.

Sand Creek Post & Beam has a nationwide presence with over 300 structures throughout the country and Canada. "Our customers are building a variety of structures from our kits; everything from a small barn or garage, horse barn, business office, and hunting lodge, to a complete home. Post and beam construction is very versatile and the beauty of the wood is highlighted in these buildings," says Len Dickinson, co-owner and President of Sand Creek Post & Beam. With an emphasis on quality and customer satisfaction, Sand Creek Post & Beam takes great pride in providing traditional barn kits that are functional, flexible, powerful and aesthetically pleasing.

Sand Creek Post & Beam's resident artist, Wendy Ketelsen, will be displaying her works at the Spring Art Show in the center of the Norfolk Mall April 9-18th. Primarily using acrylics to accommodate the various surfaces on which she paints, her favorite subjects include old barns and country scenes.

Wendy's works are featured on the Sand Creek online store at www.sandcreekbarnstore.com. Wendy not only paints on canvas, but does many pieces on old saws, older circular saw blades, and copper boilers. She is also available for custom paintings. She has done several paintings for customers of Sand Creek who have requested a painting of their new barn and landscape.

As a member of the Northeast Nebraska Art Association, her work has been displayed in many different shows and galleries throughout the area. Nebraska has approximately 40 independent art clubs spread throughout the state. The Northeast Nebraska Art Association, located in Norfolk, is one of them. These clubs have joined to form an association (Association of Nebraska Arts Clubs or ANAC) that provides mutual benefit to the members of the clubs and association. Nebraska is very unique as few other states have anything like this.

Another Sand Creek Post & Beam associate, Jim Knapp and his wife, Kristy, will also be showing at the art show. Jim has his degree in Building Construction and works at our plant in Wayne, NE. They offer professional photography, drawing, stained glass, graphic design, web design, as well as computer illustrations and wood art design. Their website is www.knapp-studios.com

The primary function of ANAC is to help organize and conduct the annual state conference held in the summer months. The hosting town/club changes each year. Award-winning art from local club competitions is assembled into an impressive 400 piece exhibit. A nationally recognized artist is hired to judge the artwork. At the concluding Awards Banquet, the judge will critique selected works and present awards. The state show will be held in Fremont June 9th -12th with Bob Rohm of Texas as the featured artist and judge. As a signature member of the Oil Painters of America, and the Pastel Society of America, he has exhibited in national and international shows and has won many awards.

Wendy will be at the show on Friday, April 16th from 10am - 3pm, but her works will be there throughout the show. There will be several pieces shown featuring Sand Creek Post & Beam buildings. Jim and Kristy’s pieces will also be on display throughout the show.

Sand Creek Post & Beam Expands Into Commercial and Government Sales

Wayne, NE: Sand Creek Post & Beam is pleased to announce the expansion of their staff with the addition of commercial and government sales. Heading up this division is Cal Wiechman, formerly the Director of Operations for Sand Creek.

Cal has an extensive background and knowledge of the commercial sales side of the industry. Originally from northeast Nebraska, he has held numerous sales, management, and purchasing positions within the industry in the state of Washington before returning to Nebraska. He joined Sand Creek Post & Beam in July of 2005 and has been instrumental in its growth and product development. "I'm looking forward to meeting with the regions lumber and material dealers to discuss opportunities to expand their product line with full dimension materials and custom millwork offered from Sand Creek, " says Cal. "Our product line fills a unique niche in the marketplace."

The newly formed division will be offering materials to both retail and wholesale lumber yards as well as online at www.sandcreekbarnstore.com.  Product lines include functional and decorative post and beam bent work, full dimension framing, siding, and sheathing lumber as well as handcrafted custom millwork.

Sand Creek Post & Beam has a nationwide presence with over 250 barns throughout the country and Canada. The addition of a commercial and government sales division is a natural extension of their traditional post and beam barn kits. Their most recent commercial building is the 10,500 sq. ft.entrance building to the Deanna Rose Homestead and Petting Zoo in Overland Park Kansas.

Sand Creek Post & Beam of Wayne, NE is pleased to announce the appointment of Bud Reynolds of Jefferson, SD as General Manager. Bud has over 20 years of solid and hands-on strategic, business, marketing, sales and project management experience. His experience is extensive and diverse, from new business start up to the successful turn-around of established operations. Mr. Reynolds is a proficient all-around management practitioner with a highly applicable background, exceptional leadership, communication, presentation, and team-building skills.

"We are thrilled to welcome Bud on board as our new General Manager.  With his wealth of experience and firm hand, we are confident Bud will do a terrific job guiding us on our quest for continued improvement and growth.  His infectious enthusiasm has all of us excited and looking forward to a bright future for all of us, and most importantly, Sand Creek" says Len Dickinson and Jule Goeller, co-owners of Sand Creek Post & Beam.

Bud was employed at Gateway Inc., a Fortune 500 company for 16 years at a variety of managerial positions including Director of Small and Medium Business Sales Division, Marketing Manager, and Manager for the Sales Training Division. He also has a background in photography and video production.

Bud has served on the Board of Directors for Big Brothers Big Sister of Sioux City, Gateway Foundation and The South Dakota Junior Chamber of Commerce. He currently serves on the board for the Wynstone Development.  In his younger days, he was recognized as one of the "Ten Outstanding Young South Dakotans" presented by John Thune on behalf of the Jaycees, and placed as a finalist at the "US Jaycees Speak Up" competition in Washington DC. Bud and his family were also recognized as a "South Dakota Family of the Year" presented by Jim Abbott former USD President.

Bud's finely honed strategic sense will provide value-added and innovative solutions for Sand Creek, combined with his proven ability to strategize expansion into important emerging markets. With his solid marketing and sales background and the savvy to comprehend, implement, and troubleshoot marketing and sales operations while achieving business growth, increased market share, and profitability, the company is expecting their continued growth to flourish. He is extremely detail oriented and has solid knowledge in many areas of the planning cycle.

Bud is a native of Sioux City, graduated from East High School, and has spent the majority of his life in the area. He is married and has 7 children. Bud's wife, Christi, is employed at GovConnection as an Education and Government Executive Account Manager.

When asked how he felt about coming on board at such a young company, Bud had this to say: "After meeting with Len it was love at first site.  I came in for the open house and met with several of the team members.  I realized in a very short period of time that an environment had been created similar to my old Gateway days, one of fun, passion and productivity.  People come to work because they wanted to not because they had to.  I love the ability to speak honestly with the owners and others on the team and have the latitude to move inside the organization assisting where I can.  I knew from day one this company had a bright future and was anxious to be a part of it.  Len said "its tough to find someone with your experience in our area" and my response was "its tough to find someone looking for someone with my experience in this area", at that point I knew we were a perfect fit and couldn't wait to get started.  The last 5 weeks have been fun and the people are great.  I can't tell you how long it's been since I worked inside a company that had the level of energy and enthusiasm I have experienced so far - "awesome" really sums it up.

Date:                January 5, 2011
From:               Sand Creek Post & Beam
For Release:     Immediate

Sand Creek Goes “Greener” with Foam & R-Control Insulation

As society continues to “Go Green,” more and more Sand Creek Post & Beam customers alike demand greener products and materials for their barn kits.  Sand Creek has delivered the answer and is proud to introduce an upgrade to more energy efficient, less-pollutant, recyclable insulation packages for all barn kit, shed, outbuilding, and barn home ready structures. 

The insulation is manufactured by AFM Corporation- a group of manufacturing plants located throughout the U.S.  For over 30 years, the company has been manufacturing and marketing the quality brands of Foam-Control EPS insulation and R-Control SIPs (structural insulated panels) systems.  These products are used in a variety of construction applications where optimum energy efficiency and durability are a requirement.

Sand Creek has selected Foam-Control insulation and R-Control SIP systems as the new insulation package for all barn kits to be produced. Foam-Control comes in either a Nailbase or Nailstrip configuration for roofs and exterior walls providing a high R-value (thermal resistance), air sealing and ease of installation.  If a full structural exterior is desired, R-Control SIPs can be installed over the frame to achieve high insulation and air sealing values while meeting the structural demands of earthquake and hurricane areas.

Foam-Control EPS has also earned an ENERGY STAR® rating due to the fact it is able to prevent greenhouse gas emissions. It has never contained CFC, HCFC, or HFC materials which are all harmful the earth’s ozone layer. 

Because wood is a “living, breathing” material mold, fungi/mildew, and termite protection can be a concern.  FrameGuard® Coated is offered as an organic fungicide and borate compound that can pre-treat the insulation package.  The organic compounds remain close to the surface to inhibit mold growth while borate penetrates the wood to protect against fungi/mildew and termites.  Especially in structures housing animals, proper ventilation and airflow are essential to hinder growth of these impurities.

Sand Creek Post & Beam has manufactured nearly 350 wood barn kits located all throughout the U.S. and parts of Canada.  Sand Creek takes care to ensure only quality materials are used to produce the structures.  To learn more about Foam-Control insulation and R-Control SIPs contact a SCPB representative: 116 West 1st Street, Wayne, NE 68787, phone: 888-489-1680, sandcreekpost@conpoint.com, www.sandcreekpostandbeam.com

Date:                January 5, 2011
From:               Sand Creek Post & Beam
For Release:     Immediate

Sand Creek Donates to Local Benefit

There’s nothing quite like the great outdoors, and for family man and good friend, Tim Ferguson, much of his life was spent enjoying the changing outdoor seasons of the Midwest.  Unfortunately, his life was taken by a tragic motor vehicle accident November 1, 2010. 

Tim was 34 years old, a loving husband of Teresa, and father of three young children- Scott, Lilly, and Jennie.  In the blink of an eye, his family was left with no insurance and, of course, his missing income.  It was by swift planning and kind-heartedness of Teresa’s high school friends- Christi Reynolds, Kenny Chicoine, and Tammy Reiff- who organized a benefit to make a difference for the Fergusons.  The friends contacted local specialist, Ryan Dial, and the group formed a plan, pooled their resources, and implemented their strategy.

Christi’s husband, Bud Reynolds, General Manager for Sand Creek Post & Beam, spread the word of the situation to his company’s Authorized Dealers and Sales Director.  Several of them donated cash, one donated a trail ride, and Sand Creek Post & Beam donated a garden shed to commemorate Tim’s love for the outdoors. 

The trail ride ended up as a Christmas gift from the auction for one of the daughters.  It has always been the little girl’s dream to go on a trail ride with real horses.  Inspired by the daughter’s dream, trail donor and Sand Creek Authorized Dealer, Amy Wilson, has taken the gift one step further.  She is inviting the family to her home over Christmas so the entire family can ride horses together at no charge.

As for the benefit, the plan came together so well, and, overall, several hundred items were auctioned.  The Iowa, Nebraska, and South Dakota Pork Boards donated all the meat for the meal, a local caterer did all the cooking free of charge, and many local companies donated the balance of the items needed for the benefit.  The ultimate goal was to raise $20,000 and serve 400 people.  By the end of the day, $26,000 was raised and nearly 700 people had been served.  The winner of the Sand Creek Garden Shed is Dan Pollema from Sioux Falls, SD.

Bud commented, “The family was in shock over the generosity from the community and, most of all, the support from some old high school classmates.  Ryan Dial came to the event and told them he had never seen so many items donated for a cause like this, and he was very impressed by the outcome of their efforts.”

Sand Creek Post & Beam is a custom, traditional wood barn manufacturer and strives to bring dreams and visions of all customers to reality.  And, now and then, certain times call for special measures to bring joy back in to the hearts of others, especially around the holidays.  For more information about Sand Creek Post & Beam, contact us at: 116 West 1st Street, Wayne, NE 68787; phone: 888-489-1680; e-mail: sandcreekpost@conpoint.com or visit the website at www.sandcreekpostandbeam.com

Date:                January 5, 2011
From:               Sand Creek Post & Beam
For Release:     Immediate

Sand Creek Sponsors Scarecrow-building Contest

The thought of a lone and weathered scarecrow paints the perfect picture for any crisp, autumn day.  And, for a few of those lucky enough to scare the crows, a painted picture is exactly what they received. 

Following the article “Hands On: Build a Scarecrow” published in the September/October 2010 issue of Hobby Farm Home (HFH) magazine, Sand Creek Post & Beam sponsored a scarecrow-building contest for all the readers.  There were 31 denim-clad entries, each a bit unique and the top three were chosen by the HFH editors to receive a piece of artwork done by artist, Wendy Ketelsen.

Wendy is a resident artist for Sand Creek Post & Beam and has a true passion for capturing the grandeur of traditional, old barns in her canvas paintings and other artwork.  As a child, she and her family moved around the Nebraska countryside, and she has fond memories of playing in haylofts and barns on the farms.  She is currently a member of the Northeast Nebraska Art Association and has displayed her artwork in many area galleries.  Wendy also specializes in replicating personal photos of families’ old barns in her paintings.

The winners of the scarecrow-building contest were:
First Place – Michelle Straight of Milwaukie, OR, chose an original acrylic painting of a beautiful gambrel barn scene with hay bales in the field on a 2½-foot saw.
Runners Up –Gale Miko of Wantage, NJ-, received a 12- by 24-inch original acrylic painting of “Boys Fishing,” framed with rustic barn wood; and Cheryl Hackbarth of Maple Park, IL, received a 16- by 20-inche acrylic painting of an actual Sand Creek Great Plains Western Horse Barn in the height of fall color with a rustic barn wood frame.

Sand Creek Post & Beam has a nationwide presence with over 350 barns throughout the United States and a few in Canada.  The barns are manufactured as kits, disassembled then shipped to customers to craft dreams and visions into reality in the forms of homes, recreational barns, garden sheds, and more.  The company takes pride in providing quality post and beam barn kits to add beauty to the countryside while providing a functional structure that will stand the test of time.
For more information on Sand Creek Post & Beam contact: Sand Creek Post & Beam, 116 West 1st Street, Wayne, NE 68787; call 888-489-1680, e-mail sandcreekpost@conpoint.com or visit the website at www.sandcreekpostandbeam.com.

Best Fourth Quarter in Sand Creek Post & Beam History - 2010

It is usually the holiday hustle and bustle creating excitement toward the end of the year, but this year at Sand Creek Post & Beam something else had the company buzzing by New Year’s Eve.   As America’s Leading Barn Manufacturer, the company ended 2010 on a very lofty note and recorded the largest gross sales ever generated for a single quarter in Sand Creek’s history.

Each year the company has experienced substantial growth in comparison to previous years and as the trend continues, Sand Creek Post & Beam won’t be slowing down anytime soon.  The company experienced an exceptional 50% growth in sales over 2009, and in 2010’s final quarter alone- the months of October through December- 45% of the total 2010 barns were sold and are scheduled to be manufactured, bundled, shipped and constructed into many different styles and sizes of countryside cathedrals. 

A substantial portion of the barns sold by Sand Creek in 2010 have been scheduled for production in spring and summer of 2011.  The company strives to adhere to strict timelines and production schedules in order to meet the ever-growing demand for their unique barns. Because each Sand Creek Post & Beam barn is custom designed, it can take up to several months to design and produce.   For customers wanting to purchase and build a barn in 2011, the company advises speaking with an authorized Sand Creek dealer as soon as possible. 

The company opened for business in 2005, and over 400 Sand Creek barns can be found across the United States, parts of Canada, and overseas. 
To speak with an authorized dealer, call toll free: 1-888-489-1680.  Also, you may visit the company’s website: www.sandcreekpostandbeam.com or contact by mail: 116 W. 1st St, Wayne, NE 68787.

Wayne, Neb., company in running for national small business award.

"A Wayne, Neb., manufacturer of post-and-beam kits for barns and outbuildings has been recognized by the U.S. Small Business Administration as the Nebraska Small Business of the year.

Sand Creek Post and Beam owners Len Dickinson and Jule Goeller have been invited to National Small Business Week, which is held in May in Washington, D.C.  There, they’ll be in the running for the National Small Business Person of the Year award.
The company was launched in 2005 and operates in a 27,000-square-foot factory in Wayne, along with a mill facility in Cleveland, GA.  Its kits, which were inspired by similar products once distributed by retailers like Sears and Montgomery Ward, have been used to build barns, sheds, garages and homes.
Sand Creek’s estimated revenues for 2010 were between $6 million and $7 million, according to a press release from the Small Business Administration’s Nebraska District Office.  The company has picked up some business in Canada and Europe, and its owners hope to expand its international sales operations, the SBA said."

By Erin Golden.  Printed in the Thursday, March 24, 2011 issue of the Omaha World-Herald

RFD-TV Features Co-Founder of Sand Creek

Sand Creek Post & Beam announces that they will be working with RFD-TV to promote their products to a TV audience of well over 41 million households.  The two organizations started meetings in early August to work out the details of this arrangement and have made a commitment to start working together in the fourth quarter of 2011.  Both companies are excited to be working together and believe this is a great way to build on the strengths of each.  Patrick Gottsch, founder and president of RFD-TV, said it best, “Your products are absolutely perfect for the RFD-TV audience.”  We couldn’t agree more Patrick and we are very pleased with this new association.

RFD-TV is rural America’s most important network, with programming designed to both cultivate and nourish the country lifestyle. Programming includes the following broad classifications, Agriculture, Equine, Rural Lifestyle, Music & Entertainment, Rural Youth, and Auctions.