www.slipperyrockgazette.net

Volume 19, Issue 231 The Beacon of the Stone October 2013 Stillwater Stoneworks Las Vegas Fabricator & Sculptor Approaches Stone from a Different Angle TEVE Hitman does not by Stacy B. Williams like to call himself an artist, because he says Photos by Johnny Vizina not all art has to be functional.

But the man with the philosophy behind Stillwater Stonework maintains a fluid bal- ance of artistry, functionality and crafts- manship in his finished products. He just approaches things from a different angle. His stone furniture and home accent pieces are one-of-a-kind creative, and his philoso- phy comes from a deep reservoir of passion, ambition and, well, water. He grew up on the New Jersey coast and water has always been the source of influence and inspiration in his stonework. Hitman has been sculpting since he was a boy and made his first surfboard at age 10. “There is constant movement in water,” Above: 3-tiered round patio table, 42˝ diameter. Hitman says, and he seeks to activate some Stone: 3cm Giallo Antigua on a -threaded of that movement with the stone he uses and reinforced ceramic pillar. in the he makes. Left: Kitchen counters and coordinating cladding Each project is approached with from a honey-colored slab of Giallo Antigua. and fluidity according to the client’s desires Backsplash is coordinated Ivory and Noche trav- and space. Whether he is installing a white ertine. Note the matching cake stand made from a column of Giallo with Black base and top. travertine countertop or designing a granite table, Hitman strives to produce At the first sight of Stillwater Stonework user-friendly stonework. His clients should exquisite stone furniture pieces, the artistic be able to move around a room as comfort- imagination of Hitman is clearly visible. ably as water glides around stones in a creek. His sculptures can bring a majestic pres- However, he has spent the last 15 years out ence into any room. Hitman’s stonework in the commercial landscape and desert-like is as unique as the clients that commission heat of Las Vegas, NV. He clearly misses the the projects. But his artistic philosophy sea and all the sensory aspects it brings to is complex, including but not limited to natural, geometric and historical elements. He is often the first to admit that Stillwater In This Issue Stonework designs are not for everyone. Cover Story: Steve Hitman of Stillwater In the spirit of an old-school craftsman, Stoneworks brings the fluid influence of Hitman believes “if you want something water to his stone furniture philosophy done right, you have to do it yourself.” He John Vizino (7) admits that he is a bit of a recluse and he Peter M. Marcucci’s presents a profile on Maine Sculptor Jesse Salisbury its environment. The heat and sun can really and most of his work still comes exclusively by enjoys working on his own. make things stagnant, he explains. referral. He has worked with clients all over the He is extremely precise with his mea- New product review of the Stone Pro ADA “I have to really dig deep and remember country and a large concentration of them in the surements and always makes large tem- compliant Vanity Countertop Support that, at one time, all of this [Nevada] was Vegas area. Some of his pieces are currently on plates of the destination space first. His …And more articles to help increase under water.” display at Portofino Gallery, an opulent home aim is to minimize the install time so as your bottom line with advice written Before the downturn of the economy a few decor and art gallery in Nevada. not to invade or disrupt the client’s home. by fabricators, installers and business years ago Hitman was doing a lot of business “Oddly enough, a lot of my customers are His workshop is a sanctuary to him, and he consulting pros. with projects backlogged over a year. His transplants from the east coast,” Hitman says has the same respect for his clients’ homes. website went live less than five years ago, fondly. Continued on page 2

Shop www.braxton-bragg.com for Stone & Tile industry products Visit www.slipperyrockgazette.net for more Stone & Tile industry news | 2 October 2013 Slippery Gazette Stillwater Stoneworks Las Vegas Fabricator & Sculptor Approaches Stone from a Different Angle

Freeform from Durango travertine. Hitman makes great use of re-purposing scrap pieces of exotic stone.

Center: Display Pedestal, White marble. Hitman’s stone columns double as a display pedestal and also a classic sculptural statement.

Above: T-Jetty table and Angel Falls. T-Jetty is a classic pedestal hall table crafted from a contrasting blend of Rojo Alicante and Opal Creme .

With that said, his approach to customer ser- known to blend the rugged aspect of stone next The octagon design serves two purposes, vice, whether he is tiling a bathroom or forming to its polished version to show off its versatility. according to Hitman. Each seat at the table a bookend, is collaborative and personal. He is Throughout his life of shaping stone, his allows clear and easy viewing of each diner quick to take a mental note of the shapes, colors surroundings have also been shaping his phi- to facilitate conversation. Additionally, all and rhythms in a room to aid in his interpretation losophy. After spending more than a decade eight places are adequately fit for a full place of the client’s personality. Many of his clients in the dry heat of Las Vegas, his influences setting on par by dining etiquette standards. are involved in every step of the process, from and directions have shifted, but the momentum His first prototype table is a stunning speci- the original design down to the final polish. that drives his work has not wavered. Hitman’s men made entirely of Absolute Black Granite. “My work is about creating their vision,” he newest design is meant to benefit and sustain a The tabletop is about six feet in diameter with says, “But in a way, the goal is always to exceed different kind of flow: the flow of conversation. each place setting measuring about 26 inches. expectations.” Stillwater Stonework’s new octagon-shaped The beveled edges, says Hitman, create an This ambition, in part, is what makes Stillwater dining room tables are Hitman’s response to inclusive space for the diners. He also admits Stonework stand out. frustrations of losing face-to-face communica- that “absolute black is very difficult to polish” Once the overall design is decided, finding tion and a perceived breakdown of the family so having the natural ring around the perime- beautiful stone is the key to making the piece. unit. The historical purity and purpose of the ter was a simple touch to give the archetype/ Most of his materials come from local suppli- dining experience has been disrupted by soci- model a clean look. He made corbels in the ers, and Hitman has an appetite for rare and ety’s dependence on technology and the expec- stand for a wing effect for outward movement. exotic slabs. His workshop has a multitude of tation to rush in our fast-paced environment, Although being landlocked provided space salvaged stone scraps and . While creative Hitman explains. Life in Las Vegas has made for Hitman to look at movement in another passion fuels the initial phase of his stonework, this increasingly clear to him. way, water is still his favorite muse. He seems Hitman is a bit more practical when it comes to “I’m also just adamantly opposed to the con- intent on returning to the east coast someday production. ventional geometric configurations of dining soon. Until his thirst is unbearable, the sky’s “If I could only have one , it would be the room tables,” he says. the limit. variable speed by Makita. I can The conceptual design of this octagon-shaped To find out more about Stillwater cut, grind, sand, water polish and everything dining room table is fundamentally rooted in Stonework, visit the website www.stillwa- with it.” improving the communal dynamics of a group terstonework.com or email Steve Hitman at Many of Stillwater Stonework’s larger installs gathering. In fact, the piece is called Togather [email protected]. integrate motion into the room by combining dif- because that is its essential purpose (not a mis- ferent edges on counters and tiles. Hitman is also spelling).

Shop www.braxton-bragg.com for Stone & Tile industry products Visit www.slipperyrockgazette.net for more Stone & Tile industry news | Slippery Rock Gazette October 2013 3

Zig-Zag, a four-piece laminated pillar of Ivory travertine sandwiched over a Giallo Veneziano center, mounted on a Noche Above: Hitman’s octagonal Absolute Black travertine base, granite dining tables promote his concept of 42 inches tall. “Togathering,” designed to improve the com- munal dynamics of conversation in a group gathering. Appropriately, the prototype table is called Togather. The tabletop is about six feet in Angel Falls, illuminated : diameter with each place setting measuring about 18˝ x 12˝ Honey Onyx and English Brown Granite Photo Courtesy Nicole Purcell, 26 inches. The beveled edges, says Hitman, create Moonlighting Photography an inclusive space for the diners.

Learn to polish the Edgemate way! Make perfect polished edges without an inline polisher Classes: Nov. 6-7, 2013

First Day: Second Day: You’ll learn the advantages of the Sinkmate You’ll learn how to use the Edgemate 100 to System on how to cut out sinks and vanity bowls create perfect profile edges. You’ll also learn to in just 4 minutes! You’ll also learn how to offset use the pre-set stops to create perfect 45 degree bowl and kitchen cutouts. back bevel seams.

Each class will be taught by Edgemate Director Bob Kalb

Location: Braxton-Bragg, 4100 Appalachian Way, Knoxville, TN 37918 NOTE: This class will be advertised to more than 15,000 customers and clients. However, Course fees: $599.00 per person in order for all attendees to get hands-on Fee includes: All training materials, classroom demonstrations & hands-on training, training, there is only room for the first 10 lunches and snacks people who respond. For more info and to reserve your spot, contact Kurt Alexander, 1-877-493-0205 Don’t delay, register today! or visit online at www.braxton-bragg.com/edgematetraining.

Toll Free 877-493-0205 or call 800-575-4401

BETTER PRODUCTS! FASTER SERVICE! CHEAPER PRICES!

Visit www.braxton-bragg.com to register for Edgemate hands-on training Visit www.slipperyrockgazette.net for more Stone & Tile industry news | 4 October 2013 Slippery Rock Gazette

® HIS month we offer two related special features: profiles on the work of Steve Hitman, of Stillwater Stoneworks, and Maine Sculptor Jesse Salisbury, an SLIPPERY ROCK GAZETTE important American sculptor, and organizer and participant in the world-class The Beacon of the Stone Industry Scoodic Sculpture Symposium (see the SRG December 2012 issue in our online archive, www.slipperyrockgazette.net). Both are artists in stone, in their Online Edition www.slipperyrockgazette.net own way. I hope our readers find the product reviews insightful, especially the new Stone Pro For advertising rates, contact Larry Hood at 865-293-0231, device for ADA compliant vanity installation. Profit from the advice penned by our special [email protected], or visit www.slipperyrockgazette.net for advertising advisors in the stone industry, who strive to be experts in their craft – just like our readers. information and to view and download back issues of the Slippery Rock Gazette®. Send your letters and comments to [email protected]. If your shop is doing something interesting–we want to tell your story. – L.H. Rich Hassert ...... Publisher Larry M. Hood ...... Editor/Design Director Stillwater Stonework, by Stacy B. Williams...... 1-3 G. William Brown...... Graphic Designer Vanishing Technology ...... 4 Jesse Salisbury: Profile of a Master Artist, by Peter J. Marcucci ...... 6, 36, 37 Steve Bussell...... Technical Advisor From the Publisher’s Pen...... 8 Aaron J. Crowley ...... Stone Industry Consultant Hanley Wood Launches TileExpo and The International Surface Event East ...... 8, 17 Joel Davis ...... Feature Contributor MIA Urges Industry to Ask OSHA to Keep Current Silica Exposure Limits ...... 8 Frederick M. Hueston ...... Stone Care Consultant Dr. Fred Announces Biocide Sealer Additive Developed ...... 10 IWF to Endorse StonExpo/Marmomacc Americas 2014 ...... 10 Carmen Ghia ...... Foreign Desk Are Trade Barriers Affecting Exports to the European Union?...... 10 Rufus B. Leakin ...... Guru of Folklore International Repair Institute (ICRI) to Offer Certifications at SURFACES | StonExpo . . 11 . Peter J. Marcucci ...... Special Contributor Tattoos, by Ida Mae Nowes ...... 12 Bellavita Tile Offers State-of-the-Art Literature Program ...... 13 Tom McNall ...... Special Contributor and Floor Restoration Consultant Three Pennsylvania Stories ...... 13 Ida Mae Nowes ...... Nubbins Correspondent Bosch Introduces 12V Heated Jacket for Cold Weather...... 13 Anne Tenna ...... Human Resources Dept. The Stone Detective, by Frederick M. Hueston, PhD ...... 15 Halloween Quote of the Month ...... 15 Richard Pierce Thomas...... Leadership and Small Business Consultant House Crashers Gone Wild ...... 17 Sam Venable ...... Special Contributor RIF: Renting is Fundamental ...... 17 Stacy B. Williams ...... Special Contributor. Mediterranea Partner Announces Major Factory Renovation ...... 18 Boomer Winfrey...... Varmint County Correspondent Nanu-Nanu from NM ...... 18 What’s With Washington? ...... 18 Please email address updates to [email protected]. Quirky Carhenge Site in Nebraska ...... 19 Please note that subscription requests, classified ad submission form and our Crayola Tile Collection Unveiled at Crayola National Headquarters ...... 22 2013 Advertising Guidelines are available online at www.slipperyrockgazette.net Mermaid Wanna-Be Makes Waves ...... 22 Wild Zoo Chase ...... 22 Four Simple Principles of Small Business Management, by Aaron J. Crowley...... 25 That’s One Tough Old Bird ...... 25 Pipe and Leaf 101, by Sam Venable ...... 26 Sports Quote of the Month ...... 26 What’s in a Brand, Anyway? by Richard Pierce Thomas...... 27 MIA Design Manual Posted Online to Stonemasonry School ...... 29 Party Animals ...... 29 That’s My Mama ...... 29 Frankenbunny Causes a Stir ...... 29 Gems Along the Highway, by Peter J. Marcucci ...... 31 Low Voltage LED Blasting Gun Light from Larson Electronics Provides Extreme Durability . . . 32 Advice of the Month ...... 32 Hey, Look What I Found! ...... 32 The Slippery Rock Classifieds...... 33 Michele Nebel Peake Joins SURFACES | StonExpo/Marmomacc Americas as Conference Manager . . 34 With Three You Get Egg Roll ...... 34 The Varmint County Chronicles, by “Boomer” Winfrey ...... 35 Stone Pro ADA Compliant Vanity Countertop Supports Now Available at Braxton-Bragg, by Joel Davis ...... 38 Vanishing Technology

magine this: There’s no Science and at the university. need to throw out your old Rogers says the goal of the “born to die” cellphone, because it program is to design transient technol- will self-destruct. ogy that can dissolve at the end of its useful life, thus saving space in That’s the idea behind a proj- PUSH landfills and reducing waste. ect at the University of Illinois Self-Destruct The research team isn’t there at Urbana-Champaign, where yet. But it has designed a chip researchers are investigating how built on a thin film of silk that to build electronics that vanish in dissolves when hit with water. water. John Rogers is a professor of Materials See the video here: http://bit.ly/1bjPHxV

Shop www.braxton-bragg.com for Stone & Tile industry products Visit www.slipperyrockgazette.net for more Stone & Tile industry news | Slippery Rock Gazette October 2013 5

by

Unlike polyester and epoxy adhesives, Everclear is a unique urethane formulation that will never yellow or discolor marble, granite, or other porous stones.

 Perfect for Marble, Honed finisHes, and all Porous Material  strong PolyuretHane adHesive tecHnology  can be used on Most interior and exterior aPPlications  Will not bleed into stone Joints  uv resistant and Will not discolor in uv ligHt  can be PigMented to MatcH stones

Available at

Call 800-575-4401

Shop www.braxton-bragg.com for Akemi Everclear Visit www.slipperyrockgazette.net for more Stone & Tile industry news 6 | October 2013 Slippery Rock Gazette Peter J. Marcucci Jesse Salisbury Profile of a Master Artist Special Contributor

eautiful Maine, where the mountains intrigue, Photos by Peter Marcucci waters energize, and scores of colors await the and of the artist releas- ing the image within…

As the morning sun lit my way through the rolling hills, there was also the clean, early morning smell of the ocean, the fishing boats and the lobster traps, and then the sign reading Steuben, and I knew I was close to arriving at the home and shop of longtime Sculptor Jesse Salisbury. Parked and walking through the seemingly boundless wooded property, I entered the 4,000 square-foot mostly see-through shop, to find Jesse and his dad setting up their wire saw for a 4˝ cut of a squared block of granite. Jesse turned and acknowledged me and con- tinued setting up for the cut. Immediately I noticed the shafts of light pouring in, illumi- nating from all directions, perfect and even from all angles, and conducive to creativity: even that of . As the saw began, we shook hands. What are you cutting? I asked. “They are sculpture bases made from Jonesboro Red granite,” Jesse replied, “but Complex and almost completed, “Torqued Link” is it’s actually pink and from a I’ve been the latest project to come under the skilled hands working from for many years in Jonesboro, of Artist Jesse Salisbury. Notice the shallow carved Maine, about twenty minutes east of here. J.C. areas (below), much shallower than a drill hole. Stone now owns that quarry.” Unbelievable! Have you done a link sculp- When they’re cut, are you going to do any ture like this before? polishing? “I’ve done it with a slightly different design. “I’m definitely not going to polish them. I’ve got a piece at the Farnsworth Museum in They will be either bush hammered or flame Rockland, Maine. It’s a little bit bigger than finished.” this, and more linear and came out of a rectan- While the diamond wire worked its way into gular block.” the granite and teeth began to cut, the noise Pointing to the split rough areas I asked, Do elevated and conversation was difficult, so we you split using feathers and wedges? made our way outside, immediately gravitat- Wide-eyed and exuberant he answered, ing to Jesse’s latest project: “Torqued Link,” “These are my split marks. I don’t drill — I a sculpture made of granite from the Sullivan carve the holes. It’s an old technique that died Granite Company, a small quarry about twenty out in this country about a hundred years ago miles away. Moving closer to the sculpture, I and goes back to .” remarked, this is definitely a large scale work Jesse continued explaining while pointing at Oh yeah, Toll Brothers. They’re huge. Close-up of “Torqued Link” with remnants of Jesse’s signature splitting technique (red arrow). of art. one of many relief areas in the stone. “I learned “Huge …yeah. He sponsors opera and lots “When I started, it was a twenty-two thou- it from artists in Japan. I carve a relief with of other things. That sculpture was for his “We also use it for commercial landscaping. sand pound block. It’s down to about nine , and then use just a flat wedge instead private sculpture park on his fifty–acre estate Before that, all I had was a dump truck and thousand two hundred pounds now.” of feathers and wedges. It’s a lot shallower in Jenkintown, Pennsylvania. He has really trailer, but with this truck I can put the trailer And the seams are right there and there, than a drill hole and a lot more time consum- amazing bronze pieces like a giant Henry on it if I have a lot of work. It’s also short, so it right? I said while pointing. ing, but it’s a much more precise split and it Moore. There’s also a lot of other famous gives me the ability to get into tight spaces. It “No, there is nothing separated — it is all one looks better. If it had a drill hole, this material artists featured on the estate. Mine is the only has the , the tools, and the storage.” piece and it’s interlocked. I drilled a hole and would start to turn away and you’d be left with stone sculpture, though, and my hope is that it Head gesturing to a huge boulder, I asked put the diamond wire [from his wire saw] in. It a hole in your piece as it’s turning. Once in a will either go to a museum or the estate will what it was going to be. took days to cut, moving the wire in, cutting, while I do use feathers and wedges, though.” become a museum.” “That stone is 67,000 pounds and I don’t moving it out, and a day just to manipulate the When you and I spoke last year at the And is this all your equipment? I asked as know yet. It sat in a gravel pit for quite a few pieces around each other. Schoodic International Sculpture Symposium, we both turned toward the stone yard. years. Originally I was thinking of splitting it “They were cut and folded in, and then sep- you had mentioned that you were going to Pointing to a large truck with a crane arm, he on site and just transporting it back here for arated — and then, moved around each other. Pennsylvania to place a sculpture. Did you replied, “That’s a new addition. I bought that future ambitious pieces. I then decided to leave That was the tough part. When we moved it ever get it placed? truck after I sold the sculpture in Pennsylvania. it whole. A guy with a big excavator was able to the outdoors, we had to figure out a way to “Yes, I did. That was a really big piece. Hopefully, it will give me the ability to deliver to roll it onto a low trailer and we transported strap them both so they could be picked up by The guy that bought it is Bruce Toll of Toll anywhere in the east. Beyond that, I’ll just hire it back here.” one crane, and float within each other.” Brothers, a developer.” a truck. Continued on page 36

Shop www.braxton-bragg.com for Stone & Tile industry products Visit www.slipperyrockgazette.net for more Stone & Tile industry news | Slippery Rock Gazette October 2013 7

Shop www.braxton-bragg.com for Diamax products Visit www.slipperyrockgazette.net for more Stone & Tile industry news 8 | October 2013 Slippery Rock Gazette Hanley Wood Launches From the Publisher’s Pen TileExpo and The International Apple iPad Apps on the Way

Surface Event East eptember was a big month for us here at Braxton-Bragg September 6th, 2013, and the Slippery Rock Gazette. We continue to invest for the Hanley Wood announced future. To serve our Braxton-Bragg customers better, we a closely-guarded secret: have completed the upgrade for our salesmen to the iPhone the launch of two events 5. Give your favorite salesman a call and ask him if he has figured out designed to bring the flooring and sur- how to use all the features yet. faces industries together. our geographic and market segment reach, and We continue to work on our new iPad App. Apple has introduced a new operating system TileExpo, a new trade show focused on creates new opportunities for our audiences to for the iPad, so we are incorporating the bells and whistles of the new system. If you have not the tile industry, will launch in conjunction engage with the industry.” yet spent time exploring the iPad, check it out, it really is an amazing product. My personal with SURFACES and StonExpo/Marmomacc TileExpo will feature a wide array of the favorite is FaceTime because I can visit with my grandchildren. America (formerly S2 ). world’s most innovative, trend-setting, and The International Surface Event will create distinctive tile products. TileExpo will offer a Staying on the technology vein, we introduced a new email program in September that is the largest event for the flooring, stone and tile comprehensive program, including very sophisticated and will enable us to serve you better in the future. Like all new complex industries with these three world-class trade hands-on demonstrations and on-floor edu- technology, it was expensive and at times difficult to learn, but I think we just about have it shows in one location. The show is sched- cation. Exhibitors will gain exposure to the under control. If we have inconvenienced you, we sincerely apologize and if you don’t want uled to launch in January 2014. Additionally, largest gathering of floor covering and surface to hear from us, just click unsubscribe. Hanley Wood will launch The International industry professionals in North America. ® Surface Event East, a new trade show that will The International Surface Event and The The Viper line of CNC tooling was also introduced in September. We are very excited bring the value and impact of The International International Surface Event East will feature about this tooling. The target we have been aiming at is ADI tooling. The performance we Surface Event to the East Coast in October the newest products, hands-on demos, inspir- observed in testing was excellent and we have priced the tools at a huge savings to ADI. If 2014 at the Miami Beach Convention Center. ing trends, key manufacturers, and industry you have a CNC machine and want superior performance at a huge discount, give us a call. “We are thrilled to launch these two events. suppliers, along with unmatched education and ™ TileExpo will be the perfect complement to networking. The International Surface Event Last but not least is the new Stone Shield Color Enhancer and Sealer. The high concentra- SURFACES and StonExpo/Marmomacc East will be a valuable resource to profession- tion of color-enhanced slabs on the market makes a product like this a necessity. Stone Shield Americas,” said Dana Teague, Vice President als seeking either residential or commercial Color Enhancer and Sealer is a UV stable product that is suitable for inside or outside use. of Hanley Wood Exhibitions. “Launching The products. Check it out on our new product section at www.Braxton-Bragg.com. International Surface Event East diversifies Continued on page 17 Have a good read, Email responses to: [email protected]

Rich Hassert

MIA Urges Industry to Ask OSHA to Keep Current Silica Exposure Limits

a statement issued on www.marble-institute.com/silica. August 23, 2013, the 2. Participate in the 90-day public comment Occupational Safety and period. Health Administration 3. Contact your U.S. Senate and House of (OSHA) issued notice that they intend to Representative members about your concern reduce the current silica dust exposure on the OSHA ruling. rate by 50%. 4. Share all of the posted videos and hand- outs with your company’s safety committee. Advances in wet cutting and industry edu- NOTE: We are providing several resources cation have positively aided OSHA in this free-of-charge to stone companies online at effort during the past few years. Data from www.marble-institute.com/silica. the U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC) The MIA considers the stone industry as show a greater than 90 percent reduction in partners with OSHA in this effort, and believe the silicosis mortality rate from 1968 to 2010. strongly that safety is paramount. However, The MIA believes that OSHA will continue to we recommend that OSHA focus attention on have a positive impact if we continue to focus companies that are not in compliance and not attention on compliance at the current exposure hamper economic growth for companies who levels. are in compliance at the current levels. Call to Action - we are asking the stone For more information see the MIA website, industry to: or email [email protected]. 1. Study this issue by going online to

Shop www.braxton-bragg.com for Nelson Shims Visit www.slipperyrockgazette.net for more Stone & Tile industry news | Slippery Rock Gazette October 2013 9

Shop www.braxton-bragg.com for Stone & Tile industry products Visit www.slipperyrockgazette.net for more Stone & Tile industry news | 10 October 2013 Slippery Rock Gazette Dr. Fred Announces Biocide IWF to Endorse StonExpo/ Sealer Additive Developed Marmomacc Americas 2014 r. Fred (Frederick M. tonExpo/Marmomacc Hueston, PhD.) has Americas and the Inter- announced his newest national Woodworking Fair invention, Biocide Sealer are excited to announce Additive, which prevents mold, mildew they are forming a strategic partnership. and algae growth on stone and . The International Woodworking Fair (IWF) will be an official endorser of It is safe for the environment, has no odor StonExpo/Marmomacc Americas 2014, and contains no VOCs. which is co-located with SURFACES. official endorser in 2014 and see great oppor- To use, simply add this treatment to your tunities for this new partnership. There is an sealer (one bottle to one gallon of either water- An IWF woodworking-specific educa- abundance of ways we can collaborate and we based or solvent-based sealer) then seal your tion program will be available to StonExpo/ look forward to growing this partnership.” stone or grout as usual. Marmomacc Americas attendees. The new Richard Hannigan, IWF 2014 Chairman, Penetrating sealers, or what are more com- education program will include design, busi- commented, “We see this as an opportunity to monly called impregnators, are great prod- ness management, business development and extend the IWF brand beyond wood. It makes ucts to protect stone and grout surfaces from material processing for the cabinetry and coun- sense to launch our new conference within an staining. The problem is mold, mildew, algae Dr. Fred has formulated a Biocide Sealer tertop sector as it relates to the kitchen and event such as StonExpo/Marmomacc Americas and other biological growths can still flourish. Additive that when added to any water-based bath. More information regarding the IWF and SURFACES.” Dr. Fred has formulated an additive that can or solvent-based impregnator, will inhibit mold, education program will be announced in the SURFACES | StonExpo/Marmomacc be added to any water-based or solvent-based mildew, algae and other biological growths. It coming weeks. Americas 2014 will be held January 27-30 at impregnator that will inhibit this biological is safe for the environment, has no odor and contains no VOCs. IWF, the largest woodworking technology the Mandalay Bay Convention Center, Las growth. trade show in North America is held every Vegas, NV. Exhibits will be open Tuesday- Anywhere there is water on the surface of many people are allergic to molds and mildews other year at the Georgia World Congress Thursday and the Education Program opens stone– pool copings, patios, showers, floors, and in some cases these biological growths can Center in Atlanta, Georgia. Recognized around Monday, January 27 and continues through etc. –creates an environment where mildew be extremely toxic. the world as the preeminent event for intro- Thursday. and mold can grow. Dr Fred’s Sealer Biocide For more information, visit Dr. Fred’s web- ducing and selling manufacturing equipment, For information on exhibiting at or attending will inhibit this growth through a new technol- site www.drfredsinnovativesolutions.com/bio- supplies and innovative new technology, IWF SURFACES 2014, visit www.SURFACES. ogy that can’t be found anywhere else. cide-sealer-additive and to order contact the attracts visitors from every level of the industry com or call 800-547-3477 or 972-536-6400. Mold and mildew growth is not just ugly, Sales Reps at Braxton-Bragg, 800-575-4401. and over eighty countries and all 50 states. For information on exhibiting at or attending Amie Gilmore, Associate Director of StonExpo/Marmomacc Americas 2014, visit SURFACES | StonExpo/Marmomacc www.StonExpo.com or call 800-547-3477 or Americas, said, “We welcome IWF as an 972-536-6400.

Are Trade Barriers Affecting Exports to the European Union? ITC Seeks Input from ISFA Members

he United States International Trade Commission has invited ISFA and its members to partici- pate in a study to catalogue issues and experiences that small and medium sized businesses (SMEs) are having in export- ing to the European Union (EU). will identify barriers by economic sector or by Of particular interest are any non-tariff mea- special issue and will focus on sectors with sures that disproportionately affect the ability high concentrations of SMEs. of SMEs to export. Anyone interested in participating or con- The Commission will conduct an investi- tributing to the study is encouraged to contact gation and prepare a report that catalogues Chuck Sawyer at ISFA to learn more details trade-related barriers that U.S. small and medi- about the process. um-sized enterprises (SMEs) perceive as dis- proportionately affecting their exports to the Write, call or email: EU, compared to those of larger U.S. exporters International Surface Fabricators Association to the EU. The Commission’s report will cover Chuck Sawyer barriers faced by U.S. SMEs exporting both Executive Director goods and services, and will focus primarily 2400 Wildwood on barriers identified by U.S. SMEs that have Gibsonia, PA 15044 experience in exporting to the EU. Also as [email protected] requested, the report, to the degree practicable, 412-487-3207

Shop www.braxton-bragg.com for Stone & Tile industry products Visit www.slipperyrockgazette.net for more Stone & Tile industry news | Slippery Rock Gazette October 2013 11 International Concrete Repair Institute (ICRI) to Offer Certifications at SURFACES | StonExpo/Marmomacc Americas

URFACES and ICRI are part- Kelly Page, Executive Director of ICRI said, nering to provide the floor “ICRI offers the only concrete slab moisture covering industry a new cer- testing certification in the industry today. ICRI tification at SURFACES | certified technicians have demonstrated their StonExpo/Marmomacc Americas 2014. ability to perform the tests necessary for assess- ing slab moisture and floor covering installa- The ICRI Concrete Slab Moisture Testing tions per ASTM standards. We’re very happy Certification Program will be offered for the to make this certification available to the floor first time at the show, allowing attendees the covering industry at SURFACES | StonExpo/ opportunity to become certified on Monday, Marmomacc Americas.” January 27 and Tuesday, January 28. Registration for SURFACES | StonExpo/ ICRI, a leading resource for education and Marmomacc Americas will open in September. information to improve the quality of repair, If you have any questions about the program, restoration and protection of concrete and other please visit www.SURFACES.com or contact structures, is pleased to offer this program at in moisture testing, yet have an active interest Grade 1 certification will be issued by ICRI to Ken Lozen, ICRI Technical Director at 248- SURFACES | StonExpo/Marmomacc Americas in learning more about the tests, what the tests those who successfully demonstrate the knowl- 848-3164. with two tiers that attendees can choose from. mean, and how the tests should be performed. edge and ability to properly perform and record SURFACES | StonExpo/Marmomacc The purpose of this program is to help This certification will be open to anyone. the results of each of the four field moisture Americas 2014 will be held January 27-30 at the improve the performance of concrete slab mois- Those who successfully complete this portion tests on hardened concrete. Those who pass Mandalay Bay Convention Center, Las Vegas, ture testing to result in more consistent, accurate of the program, including passing the writ- both the written and field testing performance NV. Exhibits will be open Tuesday-Thursday and reliable results that will help flooring man- ten examination, will be awarded a Letter of exams will receive a certificate and a wallet and the Education Program opens Monday, ufacturers, architects, engineers and contractors Achievement from ICRI. registration card. January 27 and continues through Thursday. make better decisions as to when a concrete The full certification program, Tier 2, ICRI Pamela Miller, Associate Show Manager For information on exhibiting at or attending floor is ready for a floor covering installation. Concrete Slab Moisture Testing Technician— for SURFACES | StonExpo/Marmomacc SURFACES 2014, visit www.SURFACES.com Tier 1 certification, the Concrete Slab Grade 1, consists of the same 3-hour educa- Americas commented, “This certification will or call 800-547-3477 or 972-536-6400. Moisture Testing Educational Program and the tional session, written exam, and a field testing add more depth to our already diversified edu- For information on exhibiting at or attending accompanying ICRI Concrete Slab Moisture performance exam. By passing both the written cation program and enhance the continued value StonExpo/Marmomacc Americas 2014, visit Testing Written Examination, will focus on and field testing performance exams, an ICRI SURFACES | StonExpo/Marmomacc Americas www.StonExpo.com or call 800-547-3477 or certifying those who are not regularly engaged Concrete Slab Moisture Testing Technician— brings to attending professionals.” 972-536-6400.

Shop www.braxton-bragg.com for the Flex Planetary Polisher Visit www.slipperyrockgazette.net for more Stone & Tile industry news | 12 October 2013 Slippery Rock Gazette Tattoos Ida Mae Nowes The Best of Auntie Mae’s Various Ramblings on Life in a Small Town Series Nubbins Special Correspondent

uby Crapman was all in That’s the trouble with a tattoo. It ain’t ever a tizzy this week at the going to grow out. Now, everybody goes Nubbin’s Tuesday night through a time when they want to be somebody club meeting. Seems else, but eventually they realize there’s no her 17-year-old son, Hern, wanted to escaping the fact that you’re stuck with who get himself a tattoo. you are. If you’re lucky, you may even end up liking yourself. I refrained from commenting that if I had Now, in my mind it’s one thing to get a a name like Herndon Crapman, I’d probably tattoo when you’re 15 or 17 or 22 and you’re consider a tattoo myself. still trying on all those “somebody elses” for She went on and on about the horrors of a change. At that stage, I say go ahead and body piercings and tattoos – mostly about die your hair purple or get a Mohawk or wear the threat of hepatitis and west Nile virus and really baggy clothes. Go ahead and figure out maybe even cooties, I don’t remember what if that’s really you. But it’s different if some- all, and how you can never give blood once body has already figured out who they are and you have a tattoo and how most tattoo parlors is happy with that person. Then, if that person are havens for drug dealers – all the usual stuff says, “By jimminee, I believe I want a tattoo,” that folks bring up in such conversations, some arm. But maybe that’s the appeal of a tattoo Unbeknownst to the family, he went up into well, what’s the harm? of which are true and some are not. – being somebody you always wanted to be. the bathroom and dyed his hair pitch black. I must have been on my best behavior Ruby told how Hern was wanting his tattoo Folks have always been trying out new The next morning he showed up at the break- Tuesday night because during this conver- to be a band of barbed wire winding around ways to be somebody they aren’t. When I was fast table without a word. Just sat down and sation I refrained from pointing out that not his upper arm. She just rolled her eyes when a young girl, my brother went through that started into his eggs. Everybody stared with everybody who has a tattoo is prison-bait. I left she described it, and all the ladies nodded their phase. He had the most gorgeous red wavy their mouths wide open until Ma started to cry. it to Helga Lee to pull up the back of her shirt heads, as if to say, “My oh my, what is the hair you can imagine. That beautiful red hair But my big brother was trying on something and show everybody the tattoo of a cat on her world coming to?” was ooed and ahhed over his whole life, till he new – seeing what it was like to be somebody left shoulder blade she got last year when she It is sort of odd to think about scrawny, got to be about 15 and decided he’d had all the else, somebody with black hair instead of red. retired. I’m glad she did though, cause that shut blonde, blue-eyed Herndon, who’s always ooin’ and ahhin’ he could stand. That’s when It didn’t take too long until he realized he everybody up pretty quick, and then we could been scared of yellow jackets and snakes, to he went down to the drug store and bought actually liked the redhead he had always been. get on with the cake. imagine himself with barbed wire around his himself some black hair dye. Fortunately for my brother, the dye grew out.

• Five variable speeds 2,000–4,000 RPM (no load) Compare and SAVE! • Built-in GFCI with reset and test buttons • Built-in water connections • Powerful 7.9 Amp motor • 5/8-11 spindle thread • 5.1 lbs. • 4˝ Hook & Loop Back-up Pad included • 1-year limited manufacturer’s warranty

Makita® 4˝ Wet Polisher Variable Speed OUR Price: $289.95! Screen Capture, 6-21-2013 GranQuartz Website Item # Description MSRP OUR Price 05 9001 Makita® 4˝ Wet Polisher, PW5001C $568.00 $289.95 $49 9376 Brush Set for Makita® PW5001C $18.60 $11.55 Distributed By LESSthan GranQuartz

Call 800-575-4401

Shop www.braxton-bragg.com for Makita stone polishers Visit www.slipperyrockgazette.net for more Stone & Tile industry news | Slippery Rock Gazette October 2013 13 Bellavita Tile Offers State-of-the-Art Literature Program

ellavita Tile, a leader in the North American tile indus- try, has produced an attractive and easy-to-use lit- erature program geared to help distributors and specifiers select the most appropriate products from the company’s 20-plus lines of world-class tile materials.

According to Bellavita’s North American ‘family look’ of graphics has been achieved.” Sales Manager, Mike Ward, “Our online pres- Ward also noted that the highest quality ence is strong via our website and social media photography has been mandated for use in his components. But the marketplace still demands firm’s literature. “Our photography provides a the finest literature to help customers select strong ‘Idea Gallery’ that is always available and sell our extensive series of products. Our for our customers to use as they see fit.” literature was created to provide an important Qualified distributors and specifiers who design element, as well. As a result, we’ve would like to receive this material should go put together a very high-end collection of bro- to the firm’s website: www.bellavitatile.com. chures produced in a total ‘Bellavita graphic For more Bellavita Tile information, send an standard,’ wherein each collection is portrayed email to [email protected] or visit their very clearly and professionally. Those who see website at www.bellavitatile.com. this literature immediately note that a strong

Three Pennsylvania Stories

he former live-in caretak- “Little” Addyson Gale Cessna is anything er of a Pittsburgh-area but, weighing in at 13 pounds, 12 ounces and mansion will stand trial measuring 25 inches long. Bosch Introduces 12v Heated on charges he drank more The couple is from Rural Valley, not far than $102,000 worth of old whiskey from the hospital which is about 40 miles Jacket for Cold Weather that he was supposed to be guarding. northeast of Pittsburgh. osch Power Tools has The Cessnas told KDKA-TV that doctors launched a new 12-volt Max A district judge ordered 62-year-old John believed the baby would be above average, heated jacket — PSJ120 — Saunders, of Irwin, to trial on theft charges but even so, they were told to expect a child and battery holster to keep after hearing from the owner of the South about 11 pounds. contractors and mobile technicians Broadway Manor Bed and Breakfast. Addyson Gale was delivered by C-section warm and protected from the elements. The owner found nine 12-bottle cases of and joins two brothers. whiskey hidden in the century-old mansion ––––––––––––––––– It also has a built-in battery backup power built by industrialist J.P. Brennan after she Long, Tall Harry source to charge USB-compatible cell phones. bought it last year. The Old Farm Pure Rye Police say a western Pennsylvania bank The jacket features three heat zones – two Whiskey was produced in the early 1900s robber was long and tall, but probably not chest and one back – that start warming in a and appraised at more than $2,000 a bottle. named Sally — despite outward appearances. matter of minutes and provide up to six hours After Saunders moved out last March, Instead police in Richland Township, near of heated runtime on low heat level with a 2.0 the owner discovered 52 empty bottles and Johnstown, believe the robber was a 6-foot, Ah battery. police found Saunders’ saliva DNA on some 6-inch man who was wearing a wig and “A three-level heat controller button on the of the bottles. women’s clothes when he handed a teller a jacket’s chest lights up in red, green and blue Saunders’ attorney argued the value of the note demanding money at the First National to denote heat levels of high, medium and low, whiskey was “pure speculation.” Bank branch about 12:30 p.m. Thursday, respectively,” the company said. “The PSJ120 ––––––––––––––––– July 11. is compatible with all Bosch 12V Max batter- Bigger than a Bread Box Police say the suspect was wearing ies (available separately), including the new A woman has given birth to a nearly a straight-haired red wig, black dress and 4.0 Ah BAT420.” 14-pound baby at a western Pennsylvania shoes, and was carrying a handbag. Water and wind resistant, the jacket has five hospital. Police Chief Michael Burgan says the bank large pockets, a full-zip, high-collar design and Doctors at Armstrong County Memorial still has to run an audit to determine how adjustable sleeves and waist to shield users The new Bosch PSJ120 heated jacket features Hospital near Kittanning say they don’t much money is missing. from high winds. Reflective features increase three heat zones – two chest and one back – keep official records of the largest baby Police wouldn’t say if the man had a weap- that start warming in a matter of minutes and visibility. ever birthed at the facility, but say Mark and on, but say nobody was hurt as the teller provide up to six hours of heated runtime on low The PSJ120 comes in six sizes and will be Michelle Cessna’s daughter born July 11 is complied with the robber’s demand. heat level with a 2.0 Ah battery to keep contrac- available in October. For more information tors and mobile technicians warm and protected the largest they can recall. visit www.boschtools.com. from the elements.

Shop www.braxton-bragg.com for SKM products Visit www.slipperyrockgazette.net for more Stone & Tile industry news | 14 October 2013 Slippery Rock Gazette

Shop www.braxton-bragg.com for Omni Cubed Sink Hole Saver and more Visit www.slipperyrockgazette.net for more Stone & Tile industry news | Slippery Rock Gazette October 2013 15 thought it might be useful to have a conversa- got bigger and bigger. So we named it Leroy’s The Stone Detective tion with them. I introduced myself and told Spot.” The Case of the Hairdo Mystery them I was there to look at the spot on the wall. I started to laugh and now I knew exactly I pointed to the spot. what it was. The oil from Leroy’s hair as well ’m one of those guys who Frederick M. Hueston, PhD The one security guard looked at me and said, as any hair gel he may have used was wicking doesn’t like to let my hair “Oh, you mean Leroy’s spot.” into the granite. Bingo, another case solved. A get too long. That’s kind of Stone Care Consultant Now I really was puzzled. So, I asked, “Why good alkaline poultice should remove the stain. funny since I was sort do you call it Leroy’s spot?” I went back and told Darth what it was. He of a hippy back in the day. “Well,” he kind of chuckled and said, “the also chuckled and said that was before his metal detector and security check area used time so he didn’t know. I gave him the name That’s right, the Stone Detective to be over there. We had this guard who had a of a local restoration contractor and told him had long hair. With that said, large afro and he used to sit in a chair with his I would write up a procedure for removing the it was time for this old man to head resting up against the wall. Every week spot. He thanked me and I swear he said, “May get a haircut. So, I hopped in we noticed the spot where Leroy was sitting the Force be with you.” the ole Woody and headed on down to Tony’s Barber Shop to get a trim. I got in the chair and Tony start- Halloween ed with the same old conversations and sick jokes he has told for the Quote of the Month last 35 years. This barber shop had 8 barbers and all the chairs “Halloween was confusing. All my life were full. The different types of my parents said, ‘Never take candy from haircuts I see on my visits always amazes me. strangers.’ And then they dressed me up and There was a bald guy who didn’t said, ‘Go beg for it.’ I didn’t know what to do. look like he had any reason to be there. I thought that was kind I’d knock on people’s doors and go, ‘Trick or of funny. There was another gen- treat… no thank you.’” tleman who had one of those large afros. I thought those went out back Rita Rudner (b. September 17, 1953) in the 70s. Little did I realize that today’s As most of you know, in order to mystery would be solved by getting a haircut. American comedienne, writer and actress remove a stain you have to know Tony finished with my cut, I handed him a what the stain is. So, I needed to twenty and out the door I went. either do some investigation or I got back into the ole Woody and headed treat it like an unknown stain and back to my office when my cell phone rang. perform some test poultices. It was a man with a deep voice. He sounded like a dead ringer for Darth Vader. He told me that he was the building engineer for the court ing to the courtrooms. About half way down the house downtown. They had this large dark hall was this large dark spot on the granite wall. spot on one of the granite walls in the main It was about 4 to 5 feet from the floor and was lobby and wanted me to take a look at it to see about two feet in diameter. what it would take to remove it. “Is this the only spot?” I asked. It sounded like a pretty straight-forward He said, “Yes.” problem that I have solved many times. Now, this was really strange for several However, I was in for a real mystery. Since reasons. First, the spot was in a location where I was going past the court house, I told him I there was nothing. I mean there were no win- could be there in about 15 minutes. He said, dows, pipes, or anything that would explain “Great.” where the stain may have come from. As most I walked into the courthouse and as in most of you know, in order to remove a stain you courthouses in the US, it was covered with have to know what the stain is. stone from the floor to the ceiling. This court- So, I needed to either do some investigation house was new and didn’t have the typical or treat it like an unknown stain and perform Tennessee Pink or Vermont Danby and similar some test poultices. I told Darth that I would stone you see in the old ones. This courthouse like to take a walk around for a while and see had polished granite floors and polished gray if I could figure this out. He told me he would granite on the walls. be in his office. I walked up to the security desk and told As he was leaving I was thinking I should them I was there to see “Darth Vader.” Yes, I have told him I need to contact the Force to see really said that and the security guard laughed if it could figure this out. and knew exactly who I was looking for. I I walked around the courthouse looking for walked around the courthouse as I waited clues for about an hour and came up with noth- for him. I didn’t see any dark spots that he ing. I made my way back to the spot and was described. prepared to do some tests when I noticed that Within ten minutes, Darth Vader came walk- on the other side of the hall there was a security ing out. I kid you not, he looked just like James check area. There was a metal detector and two Earl Jones, the voice of Darth Vader. He intro- uniformed guards. duced himself and led me down the hall lead- Since they are standing there every day, I

Shop www.braxton-bragg.com for Fabricators Friend products Visit www.slipperyrockgazette.net for more Stone & Tile industry news | 16 October 2013 Slippery Rock Gazette “The Viper 3-Step Pads are the best I’ve used… …Saves us 60%of polishing time and lasts twice as long as the previous pads.” http://www. Actual Customer - Tim Zeng, Granite Installation Specialists braxton-bragg. com/Viper3Step

You SAve% MUST-see 6 VIDEO 1 on OUR website! For Wet Use Only

Most polishing systems have six, seven, or be polished out. However, Viper ® has intro- Industry Leading Guarantee eight steps. That’s a lot of steps… and a lot of duced new technology that overcomes this Go ahead and give the Viper ® Professional labor. Viper ® along with Braxton-Bragg has limitation. 3-Step System a try today and rest assured announced a breakthrough technology: the you’ll be backed by our industry leading “Bet- Viper ® Professional 3-Step System. Better Design=Better Product ter! Faster! Cheaper!” guarantee. The changes required to achieve a 3-step Call 1-800-575-4401 today to order your Easy-to-Use process include: Viper ® Professional 3-Step System. This easy-to-use system comes in either a wet • These pads are made with the highest qual- ® Go to www.braxton-bragg.com/viper3step pad or a dry pad option. The Viper system ity diamonds. The diamonds have multiple cuts polishing time by 50% while achieving angles and a “polycrystalized” internal shape. the superior polish that Viper ® is known for. The diamonds are easily broken during polish- When we asked the manufacturer how this ing to continuously expose new angles. Our Quality Guarantee was possible, we were told that this was a secret • Diamond concentration is 60% of the pad We are so confident of our quality that we offer a 30-day, risk-free, money-back process developed in Asia. weight. This is the highest diamond concen- guarantee for our entire product offering. tration possible with current technology. If you are not satisfied with your purchase, simply return it for a prompt One-of-a-Kind • Bond strength has been increased to hold and courteous refund. Basically, the one-of-a-kind pad design allows the higher diamond concentration to insure the fabricator to “skip steps.” Now, normally, that the diamonds are fully used in the polish- skipping steps results in scratches too deep to ing process.

Item # Description MSRP OUR Price The Viper ® Professional 3-Step Wet Polishing System produces a 17864 Viper® 3-Step Polishing Pad, 4˝, Wet Use Only, Step 1 $24.95 $20.95 high gloss and deep shine with a gloss meter reading of 95-98. 17865 Viper® 3-Step Polishing Pad, 4˝, Wet Use Only, Step 2 $24.95 $20.95 17866 Viper ® 3-Step Polishing Pad, 4˝, Wet Use Only, Step 3 $24.95 $20.95 New LOW Price!

Call 800-575-4401 Fax 800-915-5501

BETTER PRODUCTS! FASTER SERVICE! CHEAPER PRICES!

Shop www.braxton-bragg.com for Viper Polishing pads Visit www.slipperyrockgazette.net for more Stone & Tile industry news | Slippery Rock Gazette October 2013 17 Hanley Wood Launches TileExpo and RIF: Renting is Fundamental The International Surface Event East ooks and DVDs weren’t what Ralph Mandarino Continued from page 8 Exhibitions, Veronafiere is delighted to see the wanted when he went to the The International Surface Event will be held continuing growth of StonExpo/Marmomacc Grosse Pointe Public Library. January 27-30 at the Mandalay Bay Convention Americas. A stone industry show on the East Center, Las Vegas, NV. Exhibits will be open coast will certainly create an opportunity for The 75-year-old retired businessman Encouraged by her father, Joe, to take the Tuesday-Thursday and the Education Program increased European exposure in the United checked out a tree lopper and a tape measure, cup into wider production, Lily and her dad opens Monday, January States.” two of the more than 100 tools available to created a video using the tools (video camera 27 and continues through Duke Pointer, Executive patrons of the suburban Detroit library. and editing software) available at the Skokie Thursday. January 30. Director of the Natural In a number of communities across the library’s Digital Media Lab. The International Surface Stone Council, explained, U.S., it’s possible to borrow tools, musical That video was posted to the crowd-fund- Event East will be held “The Natural Stone Council instruments, fishing poles and much more ing site Indiegogo, which helped the Borns October 19-22 at the has a long relationship from the local public library. The trend raise the necessary cash to make their Miami Beach Convention with Hanley Wood and expands the traditional role of the library as Kangaroo Cup business a reality. Center, Miami Beach, we are extremely excited a community resource for free knowledge. “We can’t be everything to everyone, but FL. Exhibits will be open about sponsoring a second Libraries see the programs as a new way to we can provide a lot of opportunities to peo- Monday-Wednesday and StonExpo/Marmomacc offer residents a chance to learn — just not ple to try out new things,” Choate said. the Education Program Americas show each year. necessarily with a book. That’s exactly what happened at the opens Sunday, October We have seen growth of “It doesn’t make sense to buy it and then Oakland library following a 1991 firestorm 19 and continues through the show from its infancy to have to store it,” said Mandarino, who that ravaged the Oakland Hills section of the Wednesday. and are confident in Hanley Wood’s leadership used the lopper to trim branches on his near- San Francisco Bay area, destroying 3,000 All operations and show management will going forward.” by property. homes and killing 25 people. be led by Hanley Wood Exhibitions in Dallas. Matt Lansing, Executive Director of Stone Libraries in Ann Arbor, Michigan; The library’s Temescal branch established “The launch of TileExpo and The International Fabricators Alliance commented, “The SFA is Oakland, California; Burlington, Vermont, a small Home Resources Collection to help Surface Event East will have a positive and sig- very pleased with Hanley Wood’s decision to and Skokie, Illinois, among others, feature residents with their rebuilding and repair nificant effect on the floor covering industry,” launch The International Surface Event East. what Ann Arbor District Library Associate projects following this disaster. noted Scott Humphrey, President of CEO of We believe in a Fall show that allows busi- Director Celeste Choate calls “unusual col- A tool-lending library was considered the World Floor Covering Association. “The nesses to take advantage of annual fiscal tax lections.” as an extension of those efforts and was WFCA looks forward to continuing our part- opportunities, which are beneficial to suppliers “What we want to do is provide an added launched in 2000 thanks to seed money from nership with Hanley Wood Exhibitions to and customers alike. We look forward to this benefit to the community and provide them a community development block grant. produce the most comprehensive, worthwhile expansion and are confident that this show will with things they might not have access Of the 5,000 tools available to patrons, event for both attendees and exhibitors.” be appreciated and embraced by all involved.” to otherwise,” said Choate, whose library the most popular items by far are the weed “The International Surface Event East will Amie Gilmore, Associate Show Director of offers telescopes, art prints, energy meters whackers, said Sharon McKellar, communi- fill a void that has been missing,” said Jim SURFACES | StonExpo/Marmomacc Americas and drums among its varied holdings. ty relations librarian, who added that hedge Hieb, Executive Vice President and CEO of | TileExpo said, “Exhibitors will now have the According to Carolyn Anthony, president trimmers and lawn mowers also are in sea- The Marble Institute of America. “We are chance to showcase their products and services of the national Public Library Association, sonal high demand. eager to see all of our members and industry during two distinctively different buying sea- libraries are not offering specialty items Tools — more than 130 of them — also are colleagues in Miami Beach. This show will be sons. We have received countless requests for as part of an effort to stay relevant in an available to patrons of Burlington’s Fletcher essential for companies looking for growth and a Fall show, as well as an East Coast show, ever-changing world. Rather, she said, they Free Library, which additionally offers ten- ways to stand out in our competitive industry.” and we’re happy to finally be able to fill this simply are adhering to the long-stated mis- nis rackets and world flags. Claudio Solignani, Director of Planning important industry need.” sion of the public library to have jointly The 2-foot-by-3-foot flags came in handy and Development at Veronafiere, noted that, For more information and to register, visit owned resources available to the commu- recently for the Hartford (Vt.) High School “As a long-standing partner of Hanley Wood www.stonexpo.com. nity. class of 1978, which used them to decorate a While that pool at one time may have con- float in the town parade. sisted almost exclusively of books and peri- “The patrons who use the tools are always odicals, it now might include a heat gun and very grateful, and we do have a small budget House Crashers Gone Wild a putty knife, both of which are available at to replace worn and broken items each year, the Oakland Tool Lending Library. so the tools are definitely here to stay,” said demolition company has “This has been going on for a long time. reference librarian Robert Resnik. mistakenly torn down a It’s not like we’re suddenly threatened three-bedroom home in and have to do something about it,” said Online sources: North Texas rather than Anthony, who also is the director of the Grosse Pointe Public Library’s Tool the condemned building next door. Skokie Public Library. Collection: http://www.gp.lib.mi.us/tool-col- Still, the growing popularity of e-readers lection David Underwood and his wife placed and online resources probably has played their Fort Worth house on the market with some role in spurring libraries to get creative Ann Arbor District Library’s Unusual Stuff to Borrow: http://www.aadl.org/catalog/ the intention of moving into the retreat they with their offerings. browse/unusual purchased near the shores of Lake Worth. “I can tell you this: You can’t download a The lakeside land has been in the family for telescope,” Choate said. Oakland Public Library’s Tool Lending decades and Underwood bought it from an Anthony likes to tell the story of how her Library: http://www.oaklandlibrary.org/ aunt earlier this year. billed more than $6,000 for the work. library’s non-book offerings aided a girl’s locations/tool-lending-library But when they stopped by to mow the The actual condemned structure still entry into the entrepreneurial world. lawn, they found the home was gone. A slab remains standing. Lily Born noticed that her grandfather — Fletcher Free Library: of foundation remains. Underwood is seeking a settlement from who has Parkinson’s disease — kept spilling http://www.fletcherfree.org Fort Worth hired the demolition company the . A city spokesman says officials are his drink, so she created a non-spilling to raze the condemned building, and was investigating. ceramic cup at a local pottery studio. Kangaroo Cup: http://bit.ly/12uoIaL

Shop www.braxton-bragg.com for Stone & Tile industry products Visit www.slipperyrockgazette.net for more Stone & Tile industry news | 18 October 2013 Slippery Rock Gazette Mediterranea Manufacturing Partner Announces Major Is your crew ALL WET? Factory Renovation Keep your crew WARM erenissima Cir, a lead- ing producer of wall and and Working this winter! floor tile, has invested 18 million Euros (approximate- ly 24 million dollars) to improve its Get the ORIGINAL newly acquired manufacturing plant in Rubiera, . Stone Sleeve™ Fabricator’s Sleeve Serenissima is a key manufacturing partner of Mediterranea, based in Doral, FL. Serenissima purchased the plant from Impronta Ceramiche in 2011, and immediately launched bold plans to re-engineer the facility to make it more energy efficient and a techno- logical leader. Among the changes: • A new LB clay storage plant Soft rubber cuff fits • Two new SACMI PH 6500 AND PH 3800 closely around the wrist presses, allowing a size change to be carried for a water-tight seal. out in just 30 minutes, rather than the 4 Mediterranea and Serenissima design and hours it took using old technology manufacture several leading series of porce- • Six BCF glazing lines with Projecta and lain tile for the U.S. market – including the Air Power applicators Mediterranea series Ice, Exotica, and Timber. • A BMR multipurpose grinding line to produce stoneware to sizes as large as 1200 a long-standing relationship with one of Italy’s Available from x 1200 mm top manufacturers.” “Mediterranea and Serenissima have worked Mediterranea and Serenissima design and together for years to produce innovative porce- manufacture several leading series of porce- 800-575-4401 • www.braxton-bragg.com lain tiles, and the factory investment demon- lain tile for the U.S. market – including the strates a commitment to remain a technological Mediterranea series Ice, Exotica, and Timber. leader,” said Mediterranea president Michael The Serenissima plant in Rubiera was fore- Mariutto. “Mediterranea is proud to have such cast to be at full power in September. What’s with Washington?

animal control officer Nanu–Nanu From NM equipped with hotdog bits has man- new website supported by aged to rescue a Roswell museum in New a 15-pound dog that somehow Mexico, gives people a found itself stuck on the roof chance to prove that we are of a Vancouver, Washington not alone in the universe. area house.

The Roswell Daily Record reports that A Flash of Gordon Homeowner Barry Klettke says the recently launched roswellsightings.com A pregnant New Mexico woman has sur- he was backing out of his driveway allows anyone on Earth to upload photos or vived a bolt from the blue to give birth to a one morning with his own dog, Bella, videos of sightings or encounters with what bouncing baby girl. in the passenger seat when Bella growled. they believe are UFOs. Authorities say Kendra Villanueva and the He tells The Columbian he looked up to The website is based in New York and is baby’s father Ian Gordon were watching fire- see what she was growling about, and there from a partnership with the Roswell-based works with friends on July Fourth when light- was the dog on his roof. He called 911. Jeffrey Barton, of Vancouver, pleaded not International UFO Museum And Research ning struck both of them in the front yard of an Clark County animal control officer guilty in a Clark County court to a charge of Center. Albuquerque home. Patrick Higbie says he’s responded to calls illegally discharging a firearm. The 52-year- The user-friendly website allows people KRQE-TV reports Villanueva was just involving birds stuck on roofs but never a old fired the shot when he thought people to share recordings on social network sites weeks from her due date and was rushed to dog. The Chihuahua mix was taken to the were breaking into his vehicles. or watch the latest scientific news or other University of New Mexico Medical Center Humane Society for Southwest Washington. Outside of court, Barton told KOIN, “I did videos. where she had an emergency Cesarean section. what Joe Biden told me to do. I went outside Program designers say they hope to com- Mother, father and baby survived relatively Source: The Columbian, and fired my shotgun in the air.” plete a smartphone app to upload videos and unscathed. http://www.columbian.com In an answer to a home defense question in photos to the site. The couple named the baby Kimberly ––––––––––––––––– February, the vice president said Americans So far, witnesses have posted sightings Samantha Rose Gordon and said they’ll also Just Shooting the Breeze don’t need semi-automatic weapons because from Argentina, Brazil, and South Africa. call her “little Flash Gordon.” A Washington state man who fired a shot- a couple of blasts from a shotgun will scare Ian Gordon says the new parents are hoping gun in the air to chase away car prowlers off intruders. Source: Roswell Daily Record, their new daughter will “run fast, or save the says he was following the advice of Vice Sheriff’s deputies admitted that’s not actu- http://www.roswell-record.com universe.” President Joe Biden. ally allowed, except in self-defense.

Shop www.braxton-bragg.com for Fabricators Friend products Visit www.slipperyrockgazette.net for more Stone & Tile industry news | Slippery Rock Gazette October 2013 19 Quirky Carhenge Site in Nebraska ULTRAseal™

New! This file photo from March 24, 2004, shows Carhenge, western Nebraska’s automotive replica of England’s famed , erected near Alliance, Nebraska. The Alliance City Manager and the Alliance Visitors Bureau are considering taking over the site after the Friends of Carhenge offered to give the attraction and 10 surrounding acres to the city. Photo: Nati Harnik

hile it lacks the cul- named it among the nation’s 10 wackiest tural significance of the attractions. The only site deemed wackier was original prehistoric mon- a toilet seat museum in San Antonio, which ument found in England, has more than 800 decorated toilet seat lids western Nebraska’s junk-car tribute to but no bathroom. Stonehenge remains a top tourist draw The ’s nonprofit owner, the in the state — even if it is more likely Friends of Carhenge, decided to sell the repli- to attract gearheads than Druids. ca because of the rising cost of gift-shop mer- chandise, and property taxes. The If officials vote as expected, the western group will remain intact but shift its focus to Nebraska city of Alliance will take control fundraising, said Buck. of Carhenge, the 26-year-old mashup monu- Buck said initial upgrades could include a ment to English prehistory and the American new paint job and gravel for pathways. The automobile. partnership with the city will help add awnings The Alliance City Council was expected for shade, new trees and an RV campsite to accept the monument and a surround- around the otherwise desolate monument. ing 10-acre site as a gift during its July 25 The monument routinely attracts visitors meeting. By approving the deal, the city from around the world and all 50 states. As of will assume ownership of the Stonehenge June, Carhenge this year already had drawn lookalike in October, once labeled the No. 2 visitors from at least 48 states and 14 coun- wackiest attraction in America. tries. The owners charge no admission fee, UltraSeal is a 24-Hour Acid Carhenge was built in 1987 by the Jim and visitors are allowed to walk up and touch Reinders and several relatives on land the it. Last year, visitors from Canada, England, Protection Penetrating Sealer family once farmed just north of Alliance, in German, France and Italy signed their names western Nebraska. A few years later, Reinders to the log book, to name a few. for Marble, Travertine, and Concrete donated Carhenge and 10 acres around it to a “I’m always amazed at how many people go nonprofit group, Friends of Carhenge. out of their way to see it,” Buck said. The monument is comprised of 38 automo- Officials in Alliance have recommended Provides stain protection against water, biles arranged in a circle to closely resemble that the city accept the monument and land as oil and acid-based substances. the stones at England’s Stonehenge, the mys- a gift, which would put city officials in charge terious prehistoric landmark and UNESCO of lawn-mowing and other maintenance, said World Heritage site. Several cars are planted city manager J.D. Cox. U.V. stable. Easy to apply. Non-invasive odor. upright in the dirt, with other cars placed on Cox said the monument had its critics in the top to form archways. All the cars are painted early years, who argued that it looked “junky,” gray to further the resemblance to its ancient but many residents have since warmed to the Water-based penetrating sealer. inspiration. site as a draw for tourists who might stop in The monument was put up for sale in 2011, Alliance. with an asking price of $300,000. Marcia “It’s been successful with the volunteers, Buck, president of Friends of Carhenge, said and we’re hopeful we can take that success at the time the quirky tourist attraction lacked to a whole new level,” Cox said. “Out of all volunteers and had limited capital. the conversations I’ve had — and I’ve had Item # Description Everyday LOW Price The site attracts an estimated 75,000 to dozens — I haven’t talked to anyone who isn’t 80,000 visitors per year, drawing many trav- excited about it.” 23170 WerkMaster™ UltraSeal, Quart $71.70 elers on their way to South Dakota’s Black Reinders’ family built the monument as 23171 WerkMaster™ UltraSeal, Gallon $186.90 Hills and Mount Rushmore, said Kevin a memorial to his father. Reinders studied 23172 WerkMaster™ UltraSeal, 5 Gallon $726.60 Howard, director of the Alliance Visitors the structure of Stonehenge while living in Bureau. Howard says the replica, about four England and used that knowledge to build the miles north of downtown Alliance, has helped car-based monument with the same shape, steered business into the town of about 8,500. proportions and size. Other car sculptures 800-575-4401 Carhenge received national recognition in have since been added to form what is now the BETTER PRODUCTS! FASTER SERVICE! 2009, when the travel advice site TripAdvisor Car Art Reserve. CHEAPER PRICES!

Shop www.braxton-bragg.com for WerkMaster Ultraseal Visit www.slipperyrockgazette.net for more Stone & Tile industry news | 20 October 2013 Slippery Rock Gazette The Same Finish on this $800,000 Piece of Earthmoving Equipment...

Optional crossmember sold separately

Only $ You 65 Sav95e 1 $ 8 ...is Used on the Hercules® A-Frame. The Best A-Frames in the World are made in America Why America? Rust? Think about it. Handling heavy, unwieldy stones is The enemy of material handling equipment is water difficult and dangerous. Who better than an American and rust. Hercules® A-Frames go through a three-step earthmoving company to understand how to design process to insure a lasting finish. Our finish is the same and build products tough enough for the challenge? that’s used on $800,000 earthmoving equipment. It’s Astec Underground builds giant trenching equipment tough and made for extreme conditions. and they use the same steel, the same factory, the same workers, and the same know-how to build Hercules® A-Frames. Remember, any order placed before 5:45pm EST Expensive? gets shipped out same-day! No. Hercules® A-Frames are competitively priced. American labor and steel is more expensive than Item # Description Reg. Price Sale Price foreign, but A-Frames are freight unfriendly, so we save 6692 Hercules® A-Frame Slab Rack, Set of 2 $173.95 $165.00 you money on freight and can afford to provide more 6693 Crossmember-Fits 6692 Hercules® A-Frame Slab Rack, $49.95 — product for your money. Includes Nuts & Bolts F.O.B. Knoxville, TN Call Now–Sale Ends October 31, 2013

Call 800-575-4401 Fax 800-915-5501

BETTER PRODUCTS! FASTER SERVICE! CHEAPER PRICES!

Shop www.braxton-bragg.com for Hercules A-Frames Visit www.slipperyrockgazette.net for more Stone & Tile industry news | Slippery Rock Gazette October 2013 21 The Fabricator’s Choice for More Than a Decade!

“Great quality “Absolutely the best Excellent quality for the price.” for the money!” and excellent price.” – Hershel Margaretten, – Frank Earls, Imperial Marble – Kathi Upchurch, Trinity Custom Stone Castech, Inc. “

My boss called me into his office and asked, “Steve, why is the Viper Chip Free our best-selling turbo blade year after year?” Thinking quickly, I said, Smooth, chip free cutting was mentioned by several customers. They “Sir, I don’t know but I’ll find out!” After a little checking I realized that stated that blade hop, scratching and the extra work of repair are not not only has the Viper® Professional Turbo been our best-selling blade an issue with Viper® Professional Turbo blades. I also learned that for over a decade—the race isn’t even close. Braxton-Bragg has frequently, cheap blades veer off course and flex too much. the largest selection of turbo blades in the industry but the Checking with a blade manufacturer, I was told that this Viper® always wins. Since sales popularity is determined by was usually caused by an inferior core. The lesson our customers, I called several shops and asked them. seems to be that saving money on a poor quality blade The overwhelming response was that the Viper® was doesn’t make sense if you lose time or have to repair the best value for the money. the stone.

Excited, I called the boss and shared this news with Durable him. He responded with, “Steve, value for money is “Consistently durable” was also a frequent response. a good overall evaluation, but it doesn’t tell me the Some blades are fast, some are durable; the Viper® details. I want to know why!” is consistently both fast and durable. Long life translates to value. Inconsistent life has been frequently Now, I have been in the stone industry for over 10 mentioned as a problem with other, inexpensively- years, but listening to our customers, I began to learn priced turbo blades. some new things about blades. Price Consistent Viper® is not our least expensive turbo blade, nor is it our most I was told that Viper® was consistent, but this confused me because expensive blade. It is our best-selling blade. What seems clear is that many of the manufacturer is continuously improving the product and upgrading our customers believe that it is the best combination of quality and durability the manufacturing process. Delving deeper I learned that frequently available today. customers try cheap blades from China in an attempt to save money. Most customers have reported that sometimes the blades work, other times they don’t, and when they don’t—you can ruin the stone and damage your saw. Consistency to them means that the blade always does You the job and you never have to worry about it ruining your job, reputation SAve or equipment. % Item # Description MSRP OUR Price 1023 Viper ® Turbo, 5˝ x 5/8” Arbor, Quad Holes, 12,000 RPM $23.95 $19.95 16 17453 Viper ® Turbo, 6˝ x 5/8” Arbor, Quad Holes, 10,000 RPM $29.95 $24.95

Call today to place your order for Viper® Professional Turbo Blades! Order Now! Toll free 1-800-575-4401

Call 800-575-4401 Fax 800-915-5501

BETTER PRODUCTS! FASTER SERVICE! CHEAPER PRICES!

Shop www.braxton-bragg.com for original Viper Turbo Quad Visit www.slipperyrockgazette.net for more Stone & Tile industry news | 22 October 2013 Slippery Rock Gazette Crayola Glass Tile Collection Unveiled at Crayola National Headquarters

he new Crayola Collection of glass tiles was recent- ly unveiled at Crayola’s Easton, Pennsylvania head- quarters in a whimsical mural depicting an inviting cartoon figure of a Crayola crayon.

In bringing this beautiful, awe-inspiring tile range to North America, Miami-based Surfaces, Inc., one of the nation’s premier pro- ducers and suppliers of glass tile, is partnering with Crayola, LLC, well-known for its iconic art tools that inspire kids’ creative expression, which has 99% name recognition in U.S. con- sumer households. Personnel from Savona Tile, Surfaces’ dis- tributor based in Central New Jersey, were there to support this effort. “We’re excited about this new partnership,” stated Mark Nielsen, General ed American brand-name,” stated Albert long-lasting and easy-to-maintain glass tile.” Crayola crayons, and include Fire Engine Red, Manager of Savona Tiles. “We’re located very Claramonte, President and Founder of Surfaces, “Our partnership with Surfaces allows us Taxi Cab Yellow, Green Monster, North Pole close to the national headquarters of Crayola, Inc. “It’s a name associated with beautiful col- to bring Crayola colors into hospitality appli- White and more. All of these series are stocked and know quite a bit about the company… ors, creativity… and of course, with children. cations in a unique way by bringing fun and in the US ready for timely distribution. and, have a great deal of respect for what they When one associates the word ‘kids’ with creativity to kids’ spaces,” said Crayola Vice For more information, please contact Albert do. The American homeowner is immediately ‘creative colors,’ it’s a safe bet that the word President of Licensing Warren Schorr. “The Claramonte at Surfaces, Inc., aclaramonte@ drawn to the Crayola name. We have great ‘Crayola’ will pop up as well. And, we’re tak- colors are vibrant and the shapes are playful surfaces.net, 305-372-9787, or visit the web- expectations relative to this new product being ing this very ‘green’ collection to a new level and fun.” site: www.surfaces.net. For more Crayola marketed by our company!” by also offering it to the commercial market- The Crayola Glass Tile Collection colors information, visit www.crayola.com and join “Crayola is a wonderful, well-respect- place, which clearly has an interest in beautiful, reflect the brilliant hues that characterize the Crayola community on Facebook.

Mermaid Wanna-Be Makes Waves

Florida woman has been fins. One night, the FishHawk Community banned from swimming in Development board voted to keep her out of her community’s pool the pool because of the swim fin policy. because she wants to The Tampa Bay Times reports that wear a mermaid tail. Conti’s dream is to swim at the Florida Aquarium, which features mermaid Jenna Conti, who lives in the performers. FishHawk Ranch subdivision, The full-time hair stylist hasn’t had been in the Aquatic Club been a mermaid for very long. pool with her custom-made tail She and her 10-year-old son once before with the staff’s approv- saw the mermaids at the Tampa al. But last week, employees told Bay Fair earlier this year, and her it violated a policy against swim she says she was “enthralled.”

Wild Zoo Chase

olice say a man hoping to itors saw the man climbing an exterior fence dodge the $15 entrance fee and running through the African Savanna at the San Francisco Zoo exhibit, an enclosure occupied by giraffes, led security officers on a zebras and ostriches. wild chase as he dashed through animal When security officers gave chase, the exhibits. Los Angeles resident ran into the Primate Discovery Center. He was discovered hiding The Oakland Tribune reports 24-year-old in bushes near an exhibit containing man- Justin Montgomery was arrested on tres- drills, large monkeys from West Africa. passing charges after he was held for police Animal caretakers moved quickly to secure by zoo security. the mandrills into their enclosures. No ani- Zoo spokeswoman Abbie Tuller says vis- mals were hurt.

Shop www.braxton-bragg.com for Stone & Tile industry products Visit www.slipperyrockgazette.net for more Stone & Tile industry news | Slippery Rock Gazette October 2013 23 Viper XT Outperforms Any 25 ˝ Grinder Guaranteed or Your Money Back!

What makes the VIPER XT so unique? It is actually Seven Machines in One! The VIPER XT is a grinder, polisher, edger, sander, buffer, burnisher and stripper. It can grind and polish stone, terrazzo, concrete, as well as XT refinish engineered and traditional hardwood floors, and strip VCT tile.

The VIPER XT is perfect for refinishing and maintaining garages, basements, carports, decorative concrete floors, and more. Ideal for floor prep: Removing coatings such as thin-set, epoxy, cut back carpet glue, VCT tile glue, paint, mastics etc. Customers will be delighted by New! the beautiful shine and finish when polishing with the VIPER XT.

Easy to use, operator friendly features include a light weight 170 pound, 17” footprint, a variable speed motor, a folding handle for easier transport (can fit into the trunk of a car). The VIPER XT edges to Protect your customer’s investment with Environmentally within 1/8” of a wall and incorporates WerkMaster’s proven patented Friendly and Food Safe ULTRAGuard sealer. Resistant to muriatic, Octi-Disc™ Technology. The VIPER XT’s powerful 3 hp 220 volt motor hydrochloric, phosphoric and sulphuric acids, brake fluid, oils, coffee, can run on 110 volts using a Quick 220 adapter or plug directly into a mustard, ketchup, mayonnaise, vinegar, pickle juice, red wine and pop 220 volt outlet or 4 KW generator. The VIPER delivers results that are for up to 24 Hours without etching or staining! unobtainable with today’s comparable planetary and swing machines. Fast, agile, easy and fun to operate, test drive the VIPER XT and WerkMaster’s new Patent Pending ULTRA-FLEX Plug ‘N Go Tooling see how quickly you too can improve your bottom line profits! System is a major advancement in tooling design. The challenge was WerkMaster – Taking it to the Wall. to develop a system that would allow WerkMaster machines to flatten a floor or to follow a wavy, uneven floor using the same tools and drive plates on all floor surfaces. The result was an ingenious system that uses rubber grommets of various hardnesses. Now, you can select the desired flexibility allowing you to flatten the floor or follow the Our Quality Guarantee floor better than any planetary grinder or swing machine. How wavy? Remove deep birdbaths or fishbowls up to 3/4 inch deep! You can even We are so confident of our quality that we offer a 30-day, risk-free, money-back grind and polish around drains. guarantee for our entire product offering. If you are not satisfied with your Plug ‘N Go technology also eliminates the frustration and pain of purchase, simply return it for a prompt dealing with lippage, expansion joints and large cracks. It significantly and courteous refund. improves performance, production and results on polished concrete, terrazzo, marble, granite, travertine and stone floors, and on exposed aggregate and spalled concrete.

WerkMaster’s quality of materials and workmanship is unsurpassed in the industry and features a Three Years Parts and Three Years Labor Item # Description LOW Intro Price Warranty. 23278 WerkMaster™ Viper XT Floor Machine With Handle Activation, $6,995.00* 3 Hp, 220 Volt. Additional Freight Charges May Apply. *Call for Equipment Financing Options

Call 800-575-4401 Fax 800-915-5501

BETTER PRODUCTS! FASTER SERVICE! CHEAPER PRICES!

Shop www.braxton-bragg.com for the WerkMaster Viper XT Visit www.slipperyrockgazette.net for more Stone & Tile industry news | 24 October 2013 Slippery Rock Gazette Important Industry Update… The Great CNC Tooling Hoax? CNC Tooling is the Only Category of Diamond Tooling That Has Not Decreased in Price Over the Last 10 Years – and what one supplier is doing to change that…

KNOXVILLE, TN – Recently we However, over the same time period, as Fortunately for the industry, one major conducted a study where the prices of three far as we can tell, CNC tooling did NOT supplier, Braxton-Bragg, is stepping in to categories of diamond tooling (polishing decrease in price. As a major distributor of right the wrong. After an exhaustive search pads, core bits and turbo blades) were diamond tooling products, we know from for the highest quality CNC tooling from a analyzed over the past 10 years. our vendors the cost of manufacturing CNC reputable manufacturer, we found a CNC tooling HAS dropped significantly. product line worthy of the Viper® name. The results were shocking and eye- opening. The data was pulled from multiple So, what gives? Well, no one knows for We found a manufacturer who spent more sources including old catalogs and online sure why the end users are still paying the than 1.2 million dollars in research and archives of various industry suppliers’ sites. old prices since the cost of manufacturing development bringing a new line of CNC has dropped. tooling to market. The manufacturing is done Here’s what was discovered… in Bulgaria as opposed to the industry norm (prices are average pricing across multiple The only logical answer is that there simply of Italy. This leads to consistent tooling and brands and suppliers) hasn’t been a major supplier willing to part world-class standards of precision.

Product 2003 2009 2013 Decrease We even had the tooling field tested by several of the largest and most demanding Core Bits 1-3/8˝ Wet Core $85 $65 $56.95 33% to end user fabrication shops in the nation. And the results were astounding. Polishing Pads 4˝ Wet $16.88 $14.49 $12.95 24% to end user That’s why effective immediately, Turbo Blades 5˝ $40 $30.50 $20.95 48% to end user Braxton-Bragg is offering a high quality line of CNC tooling with the Viper® name at about 40% LESS than their biggest competitor. That’s why effective immediately, Braxton-Bragg is offering ® To keep costs down , we’ll only offer the a high quality line of CNC tooling with the Viper name top 6 selling profiles… and we’ll pass that at about 40% LESS than their biggest competitor. savings on to our customers. Plus, we’ll also be offering to our customers $50 EDM for As you can see by the chart above, prices with the high profit margins offered by the life of the tool. have dropped – while quality increased – in selling CNC tooling. In other words, instead three major categories of diamond tooling of passing the savings on to CNC owners, If you’d like more information on Braxton- for the stone industry. The average drop in the distributors have decided to keep the Bragg and our new line of CNC tooling, pricing over the last ten years is 35%. added profit margins for themselves. you can visit www.Braxton-Bragg.com/ ViperCNC or call us at 1-800-575-4401.

Call 800-575-4401 Fax 800-915-5501

BETTER PRODUCTS! FASTER SERVICE! CHEAPER PRICES!

Shop www.braxton-bragg.com for Viper CNC tooling Visit www.slipperyrockgazette.net for more Stone & Tile industry news | Slippery Rock Gazette October 2013 25 Aaron J. Crowley Four Simple Principles of Small Business Management Stone Industry Consultant

few years after starting my a golf club or one didn’t, and that there wasn’t Principle #1 – Find and Listen to Wise Coun- identifying the greatest need, then building a fabrication company, I decided much the latter could do to alter their experi- sel. The greatest leaders in history, from gener- business around supplying that need is a guar- to take up the game of golf. ence. als to presidents to famous CEO’s, assembled anteed strategy for success. For one thing, the game ap- Yet in following her advice teams of experts and advisors to Principle #4 – Documentation Beats Conver- peared to me to be a serene, stress relieving and hiring a swing coach, I provide them with insight and sation. For the business owner who can’t be ev- diversion from the maddening frustration learned that fundamental prin- perspective. A struggling small erywhere at once, leveraging written processes of running a granite shop. Furthermore, ciples for a proper stance, grip, business owner must be will- and measurable standards is the only way to en- because I assumed that all golfers were and swing actually existed, and ing to seek advice and humble sure that critical tasks in the business are done successful businessmen , it seemed logical that when I practiced them at enough to take it. right and at the right time. An ancient Chinese that taking up the sport would improve my the driving range and employed Principle #2 – Know the Num- proverb, “Strongest memory weaker than faint- prospects for success. them out on the golf course, I bers & Know the Costs. Some est ink” says it all. Leaving thousands of details began to see measurable im- people call it budgeting and oth- to chance and the memories of very busy people Boy, was I wrong about golf relieving stress. provements in my score, and my ers call it forecasting, but no mat- is a sure fire way to increase mistakes and un- My 4, 5, 8 irons did not survive that first summer enjoyment! ter what you call it, a financial happy customers. and I even bent a putter in half, right in front a It even taught me a profound lesson about suc- template or model for each month must exist if If you are so irritated with your business ex- tool supply rep who had invited me out to play. cess in small business. a profit is to be maintained. Revenues can be in- perience that you’re ready to wrap a five iron Struggling to hit a golf ball where I wanted it Sadly, at that point my view of business was fluenced but only costs can be controlled. Thus, around a tree or if profits are as elusive as a to go turned out to be the only thing more frus- not much different from how I’d once viewed costs must be determined as fractions or percent- birdie on a par 3, know that frustration in busi- trating than struggling to get my employees to golf. I had come to believe that success in busi- ages of actual revenues, so decisions to reduce ness is not inevitable. Know that people who fabricate and install counters the way I wanted. ness was more a random achievement than the or increase them as revenues fluctuate can be achieve success in business do so, not because The following summer I took up my partial result of any particular principles or practices. made quickly. of a random achievement or because they golf, bag of clubs determined to improve my score It would be a few years before I hired the busi- Principle #3 – Know Thy Customer & Spe- but because they understand the fundamental and my sanity out on the fairway. It wasn’t a ness coach who would teach me that like in golf, cialize. Builders, developers, remodelers, and principles mentioned above, practice them, and promising start. In fact, it started so poorly that there are fundamental principles and disciplines homeowners all want granite counters. But they use them every day. my wife had to intervene with an ultimatum. that when practiced and employed, produce are all looking for something very different in So get to the range and never stop swinging. “Either get lessons to learn how to play and amazing results. the process and the fabricator who tries to be enjoy the game, or you’re done!” she said. Below are four simple mechanics of small all things to all these people will have very little Aaron Crowley is a stone shop owner, author, Lessons? Now why hadn’t I thought of that? business management that like a proper stance, to offer any of them in the way of a compelling speaker, and consultant to mid-size stone com- Up to that point, I had just assumed that one grip and swing, will improve the score and expe- reason to do business. Understanding the unique panies. Contact him at aaron@fabricators- either had an innate ability to accurately swing rience for the struggling entrepreneur. needs of each of these segments of the market, friend.com

That’s One Tough Old Bird

ildlife offi- cials in Michigan have removed an arrow from a Canada goose more than two months after the injured bird was spotted, leaving the once-easily recognized bird to blend in once again with its fellow geese.

The female goose initially was seen wandering in downtown Bay City in April and people alerted the state Department of Natural Resources, expressing concern for its safety, MLive.com reported. Officials initially decided not to remove A biologist removed the arrow, banded the the arrow, because the bird was able to fly bird and let it go within about a half-hour, without difficulty. The DNR again came releasing it back into the Saginaw River. across the goose at the end of June when “The arrow was able to move freely with- biologists were banding geese and decided in the bird. The wound from the arrow to take action. itself had pretty much healed up around “It really, actually, was a lucky chance that the arrow,” Vaughn said. “They found that we were able to get that goose in the pen taking the arrow out wouldn’t do any further when we were rounding up geese to band damage.” them,” Michigan DNR Wildlife Outreach Officials say the goose appeared to be OK Technician Holly Vaughn said. “That partic- afterward, and Vaughn said it “just went on ular goose wasn’t targeted. It just happened its merry way.” What is certain is that the to be with the rest of the geese when our intervention increased the bird’s chances of biologists were banding.” survival in the wild.

Shop www.braxton-bragg.com for Stone & Tile industry products Visit www.slipperyrockgazette.net for more Stone & Tile industry news | 26 October 2013 Slippery Rock Gazette ™ Pipe and Leaf 101 Talon Resin-Filled Dual ipe-smoking and leaf-raking Sam Venable are two autumn activities Special Contributor Zero Tolerance Wheels Type-A people should avoid at all costs. Pipe-smoking and leaf-raking both Trust your Uncle Blood Pressure on this mat- demand a great degree of patience. ter. Pipe-smoking and leaf-raking both demand We Type-A’s can’t even define a great degree of patience. We Type-A’s can’t that word, let alone practice it. New! even define that word, let alone practice it. I smoked a pipe for three or four of the 10-12 Methodically, we subject the tines to the years I spent as prisoner of war to tobacco. Tried exposed roots and gnarled base of an ancient to smoke it, that is. Ours was a relationship des- maple tree. tined for failure from the beginning. Sensuously, we explore the flower bed. Dedicated pipe smokers are quiet, calm, col- It is sooooooo peaceful, soooooo refreshing . . . lected Type-B’s. They enjoy the foreplay of and then we come loose at the hinges. We run out smoking—selecting a pipe that fits their particu- of patience and attack the job like a John Deere lar mood, packing the bowl with a custom blend, combine in 40 acres of soybeans: applying a “cool” match, ad nauseam—much Rake-rake-rake-rake-rake-rake-rake! more than the hit of nicotine they get at the peak Must-finish-this-job-for-Heaven’s-sake! of arousal. Rake-jerk-slash-hack-jab-crash-boom! Use side and bottom to grind! For a closet Type-A masquerading as a If-I-work-fast-I’m-done-by-noon! pipe-smoker, this is pure torture. We’d rather Oh, I suppose there is one saving grace for Talon™ Resin-Filled Dual Zero Tolerance Wheels are really have our tobacco wham-bam-thank-you-ma’am Type-A’s. Raking gives us instant gratification great for stock removal, and perfect for cleaning up bowls and style. in its purest form. preparing the stone for polishing. The design greatly reduces That’s why we pack our pipes like soldiers We drag the tines through a layer of leaves— bounce; it’s quiet and minimizes chipping, allowing you to loading a 105 howitzer. grrrruuuup!—and expose a Kelly-green swatch grind closer to the template. It is why we torch the bowl to a red-hot coal. of grass. It is why we suck on the stem with the force Another grrrruuuup! and there are two of two Texas tornadoes and inhale to the most swatches. The dual-action wheel works as a Zero Tolerance Wheel and distant lobe of our lungs. Again and again we grrrruuuup! And the also as a Grinding Cup Wheel, at the same time. Convenient and It is why we then throw everything—the pipe verdant front yard we last saw in September effective when working corners of kitchen counter tops. tools, the pipe cleaners, the exotic blends, the reappears in our wake. imported briars—into the trash, good $#%! rid- But satisfaction is ever-so-fleeting. Ten min- • Use wet or dry dance, and run to the nearest convenience store utes after our last grrrruuuup! the wind kicks up. • Suggested RPM 10,000 for a pack of cheap-thrill Marlboros. More leaves rain down. Our brilliant green lawn We have the same problem raking leaves. goes undercover once more. If you believe the fiction of Norman Rockwell, That is why you should never sneak up on leaf-raking is a contemplative exercise practiced a Type-A as he is furiously raking leaves on a Another in the crisp air of a color-splashed New England windy day and make a stupid comment along the afternoon. Hah! For a born-and-bred Type-A fat lines of, “Y’know, you’re probably gonna have boy, nothing could be further from the truth. to do this job all over next week.” Braxton-Bragg We try. Honest we do. We step into the yard, This is a particularly foolish thing to say if you rake in hand, and survey the rainbow of golds, happen to be smoking a pipe. Innovation! reds, oranges and yellows at our feet. Aaaah, we say to ourselves; what a wonderful, calm way to Sam Venable is an author, stand-up comedian, 2-in-1 and spend an October day! and humor columnist for the Knoxville (TN) Gently, we flit the rake along the edge of the News Sentinel. He may be reached at mahv@ less sidewalk. outlook.com. expensive! Sports Quote of the Month “I had pro offers from the Detroit Lions and Green Item # Description LOW Intro Price Bay Packers, who were pretty hard up for linemen 1572 Talon™ Zero Tolerance, 2˝x 40mm x 1-5/8˝-11 Thread, Coarse $115.95 in those days. If I had gone into professional 1573 Talon™ Zero Tolerance, 2˝x 40mm x 1-5/8˝-11 Thread, Med. $115.95 football the name Jerry Ford might have been a 1574 Talon™ Zero Tolerance, 3˝x 40mm x 1-5/8˝-11 Thread, Coarse $136.95 household word today.” 1575 Talon™ Zero Tolerance, 3˝ x 40mm x 1-5/8˝-11 Thread, Med. $136.95 Gerald R. Ford (1913-2006) 38th President of the United States, 800-575-4401 serving from 1974 to 1977 BETTER PRODUCTS! FASTER SERVICE! Prior to this, Mr. Ford was the 40th Vice President of the United States, serving from 1973 to 1974. CHEAPER PRICES!

Shop www.braxton-Bragg.com for Talon Resin Zero Tolerance Wheels Visit www.slipperyrockgazette.net for more Stone & Tile industry news | Slippery Rock Gazette October 2013 27 What’s in a Brand, Anyway? Richard Pierce Thomas Leadership and Small Business Consultant

have been engaged in the place to push your message onto someone. It’s branding deep-dive with my It is more obvious to me now all about the pull, and by the way, it takes time new business partners of late, after the fact, that I did indeed and numerous turns at the proverbial plate, so defining the core message for build a brand and a fairly simple, the sooner you start, the better. Pilot Wealth Management as a result yet effective strategy, and I 3. Ask for the review – Testimonials have of the recent merger of our businesses. want to share the best of what all but gone the way of the dinosaur and have I learned and did, with you. been replaced by the social reviews. You can It has challenged me to reflect on the work still ask for the review, though, and the real I accomplished in my last business, Activate alone out of necessity, however I discovered payoff is not necessarily the good words they Leadership. Like many of you, I’ve been a solo the most important things to do. These three may write about the experience, but rather the operator, and the luxury of having a well-de- tional state. simple steps are actions you can take to gain conversation you can have with them in asking signed brand strategy would always lose out to For example, when Ford Motor Company perspective on your brand and take it to the for it. more pressing needs, like putting food on the advertises their new car lineup, the message next level: All of this is intended to develop self-aware- table or buying new school clothes for the kids. isn’t just about building a better car or truck, 1. Do great work – At the risk of repeating ness of what the brand value is for your busi- Looking back on the eight years, however, it but their transcendent message is “Go Further.” myself (First, Do Great Work, SRG March ness. How long this takes is up to you, based is more obvious to me now after the fact, that For car enthusiasts such as myself, it implies 2012), before you launch any effort to create on how much work you want to put into doing I did indeed build a brand and a fairly simple, imagery of going places I may not normally messaging and brand identification, make sure the above steps. As you do, however, you will yet effective strategy, and I want to share the go, if I drive a Ford. As simple as this is, it is the product and service you deliver is outstand- begin to understand what that transcendent best of what I learned and did, with you. incredibly effective. In Activate Leadership, ing. Even the most well executed branding message is that speaks to your clients—and For starters, let’s define what brand is. In we attempted to accomplish this with “Building strategy can be sunk in a heartbeat by poor why your bucket is better than the other guys. metaphorical terms, a brand is like giving your Leaders at Every Level,” to evoke for the busi- quality and unhappy customers. Accomplish this, and the payoff will be sub- prospect a bucket to carry their water with. ness owner that we solve problems at multiple 2. Create an ongoing conversation – This stantial. Anyway you look at it. It is incredibly simple, and it makes sense to levels in the company. is about using the various venues and outlets to them. Describing the bucket, however, is the So, what is it for your business? What mes- begin sharing your expertise, or thought lead- Rick Thomas is a Principal and Director of easy part. The more difficult aspect is why sage takes the conversation from being, for ership, on your passion for the product and ser- Human Capital at Pilot Wealth Management, a your bucket, versus the myriad of competitors example, just another granite countertop manu- vice you deliver. Whether it be via a web blog registered investment advisor in Oregon state. out there. It is here where the heavy lifting has facturer to a business that can create a desirable or social media, it’s important to understand Leading their focus on the human component taken place in my learning by transcending the experience every time the owner walks into the why you do this—to create pull. In marketing of building wealth, he consults and speaks to ordinary marketing message with a succinct kitchen? speak, pull means you will be sought out for organizations across the country, focusing on message that communicates a memorable emo- Starting out eight years ago I had to go it what you have to say, rather than looking for a individual and organizational achievement. Upgrade your next install - and make more money - with these easy-to-install LED Lights New! see the 1/4 inch Thick VIDEO http://www.braxton-bragg. com/RadionicLights Item# 13129 Energy-efficient low profile LED Undercabinet lights are available in 12˝ Item # Description Everyday LOW Price x 1/2˝ 42-LED designs. Easy to install, 13120 Radionic Low Profile-1, 12˝x 1/2˝, (1 LED Strip) Plug-In Driver, 42 LEDs, $40.25 they cost less than penny a day to use. Warm White (3000 K) 13121 Radionic Low Profile-2, 12˝x 1/2˝, (2 LED Strips) Plug-In Driver, 42 LEDs, $61.25 Warm White (3000 K) Unlike fluorescent fixtures that give a harsh glare or puck lights that produce dangerous 13127 Radionic 12˝ Undercabinet Lighting Fixture, 30 LEDs, Warm White (3000 K) $43.75 heat and uneven lighting, LED lighting stays cool, saves energy, lasts for at least 10 years and provides beauty to your kitchen. 13126 Radionic 12˝ Undercabinet Lighting Fixture, 30 LEDs, Cool White (5000 K) $43.75 Included with each fixture is a quick connect power cord, easy to install mounting clips, 13123 Radionic 12.25˝ Undercabinet Lighting Fixture, 56 LEDs, Warm White (3000 K) $59.95 an inter-connect cord that allows multiple fixtures to be connected together, and a “butt” 16829 Radionic 12.25˝ Undercabinet Lighting Fixture, 56 LEDs, Cool White (5000 K) $64.95 connector that allows two fixtures to be mounted side by side with no space between them. 13129 Radionic 19˝ Undercabinet Lighting Fixture, 40 LEDs, Warm White (3000 K) $49.95 13128 Radionic 19˝ Undercabinet Lighting Fixture, 40 LEDs, Cool White (5000 K) $49.95 13125 Radionic 19˝ Undercabinet Lighting Fixture, 80 LEDs, Warm White (3000 K) $64.95 16830 Radionic 19˝ Undercabinet Lighting Fixture, 80 LEDs, Cool White (5000 K) $69.95 17021 Radionic Junction Box for LED Fixtures $12.95

Call 800-575-4401 Fax 800-915-5501

BETTER PRODUCTS! FASTER SERVICE! CHEAPER PRICES!

Shop www.braxton-bragg.com for Radionic Undercabinet LEDs Visit www.slipperyrockgazette.net for more Stone & Tile industry news | 28 October 2013 Slippery Rock Gazette The PERFECT color match to ANY engineered stone Akemi Colour Bond Cartridge Adhesives

Akemi Colour Bond 2-component Cartridge Diresco, HanStone® and others. It can be used for Adhesives are epoxy based and can be used for bonding miter joints, laminating stone and applications using engineered stone, engineered marble, engineered the V-grooving process. quartz and various kinds of other composite stones. The Akemi Colour Bond Cartridge Adhesive is a Akemi Colour bond is offered in a wide range of colors gel-like consistency, which allows it to be applied to specially formulated to match all major manufacturers, horizontal and vertical surfaces. It can also be applied including Silestone®, Caesarstone®, Zodiaq®, for extremely thin and invisible bonding joints, as well Technistone®, Quarella, Cambria®, Okite®, Compac, as used with natural stone.

All colors are only $29.05/cartridge

New! COLOUR BOND 250ML-CARTRIDGE-ADHESIVE

• Based on epoxy acrylate, very fast hardening (20-30 min at 68° F) with high initial strength Transparent White White White White Cream CC 2200 CC 1120 CC 1130 CC 1100 CC 1140 CC 1620 Item# 46681 Item# 46636 Item# 46637 Item# 46635 Item# 46638 Item# 46644 • Smooth, soft consistency enables easy application in horizontal and vertical positions • UV stabilized

Cream Cream Cream Cream Cream Cream CC 1640 CC 1630 CC 1600 CC 1650 CC 1660 CC 1670 Item# 46646 Item# 46645 Item# 46643 Item# 46647 Item# 46648 Item# 46649 • Excellent polishing properties • Comes in cartridge system: ready-to-use in the right color Gray Gray Gray Gray Black Black • Reliability and very economical CC 1815 CC 1830 CC 1805 CC 1800 CC 1010 CC 1000 Item# 46662 Item# 46663 Item# 46661 Item# 46660 Item# 46631 Item# 46630 • Fast hardening

• Unique selection of more than 50 colors to match Black Beige Beige Beige Beige Khaki CC 1040 CC 1725 CC 1700 CC 1710 CC 1715 CC 1920 all major kinds of engineered stone Item# 46634 Item# 46655 Item# 46650 Item# 46652 Item# 46653 Item# 46670 • No unpleasant odor

Khaki Khaki Khaki Brown Brown Brown CC 1930 CC 1900 CC 1940 CC 2010 CC 2040 CC 2030 Item# 46671 Item# 46669 Item# 46672 Item# 46676 Item# 46678 Item# 46677

Note: Color samples show the cured state of products. Actual colors may vary due to printing alterations. Brown CC 2000 Item# 46675

Available at

Call now, toll-free or order on the web 24/7! 800-575-4401 • www.braxton-bragg.com

Shop www.braxton-bragg.com for Akemi Colour Bond Visit www.slipperyrockgazette.net for more Stone & Tile industry news | Slippery Rock Gazette October 2013 29 MIA Dimension Stone Design That’s My Mama

Manual Posted Online to he FBI says a Michigan man at the service kiosk several minutes, and who recognized his mom in appeared to be preparing a withdrawal slip. Stonemasonry School surveillance photos of a Surveillance photos showed a woman he Marble Institute of Manager Mike Loflin said, “We’re happy bank robbery called police wearing a bright red T-shirt with a large America’s (MIA) outreach to make the Design Manual available to the to turn her in. American flag on the front. to support the internation- future stonemasons of South Western Sydney Shortly after the photos were released al stone industry continues Institute at Miller College. This is beneficial MLive.com reports the man told police his to media, the son and several other callers to touch current and future stone pro- for the trade and the industry as a whole.” mother was at his home in Kent County’s identified Sanders as the robber, FBI special fessionals in all corners of the world. This posting is the most recent in the MIA’s Byron Township. agent Adam Van Deuren wrote in a criminal long history of outreach towards architectural, Authorities say 53-year-old Dee Ann complaint. Police found her near her son’s The MIA’s Dimension Stone Design design and students. In 2011, the Sanders of Martin was charged with robbing house on Festival Drive SW, less than a mile Manual has been posted to South Western MIA donated a copy of the Dimension Stone a Bank of America branch on June 18. from the bank robbery. Sydney Institute’s online intranet library. The Design Manual v 7.2 to every architectural She was to be arraigned in U.S. District FBI special agent Adam Van Deuren says Design Manual will serve students in the college library in the United States, an effort Court in Grand Rapids. Sanders confessed. Stonemasonry course at Miller College. This they plan to replicate in 2014, with the launch The robbery occurred around 4:10 p.m. It’s unknown if she has a lawyer yet. She Course offers a diverse range of stonemasonry of version 8.0. A teller says the robber handed her a note didn’t have a phone listing. experiences that seek to meet the needs of a The Dimension Stone Design Manual v 7.2 demanding $2,500 for her children and rapidly expanding and developing industry. At is the stone industry’s single-source reference grandchildren. She got $1,092. Source: The Grand Rapids Press: the same time it provides traditional core craft for dimensional stone design and construc- The teller told police that the robber stood MLive.com, http://www.mlive.com skills that are the basis of the stonemasonry tion facts and details. Contents include a industry. Currently, 120 students at South newly revised and greatly expanded Illustrated Western Sydney Institute’s Stonemasonry Glossary of Stone Industry Terms, a new sec- course at Miller College are pursuing a 3 year tion on stone tile installation and revised coun- Frankenbunny Causes a Stir certificate program. tertop installation guidelines. Also included southern Arik Grebelsky, A. Grebelsky & Son, who is are descriptions and technical data of individ- Minnesota one of four international directors on the MIA’s ual natural stone varieties; general installation college stu- thirteen person board commented, “The MIA guidelines; guidelines and typical detailing for dent’s spoof doesn’t just provide access for the internation- horizontal surfaces, vertical surfaces, counter- video of an apparently al community to the North American market. tops, wet areas and furniture; and maintenance tumorous rabbit that he It routinely provides education, research and of exterior and interior stone installations. dubbed “Frankenstein” information for the entire global market.” Visit www.marble-institute.com for informa- has attracted hundreds MIA’s Industry Research & Information tion on the MIA and natural stone. of thousands of Internet viewers.

Party Animals Gunnar Boettcher, a eattle police say they 20-year-old student at arrested a man who crashed Gustavus Adolphus College an 8-year-old child’s party, in St. Peter, and his brother ate several pieces of pizza took photos and video of the rabbit, which appears and took two balloon animals. This June 26, 2013 photo provided by Gunnar to have tumors growing on its head, on June Boettcher shows a rabbit that Boettcher dubbed Parents told police they asked the 28-year- 26, 2013. “Frankenstein” with what looks like a series of old man to leave after he joined the chil- “We’ve seen it before around the house horns growing out of its head outside his home in Mankato, Minn. Boettcher and his brother dren’s party at Green Lake one Wednesday but we’ve never been able to get a close put together a video. Photo: Courtesy Gunnar Boettcher evening. However, police say the shirtless, beat it this year. Soon after, Thurmond – who look,” Boettcher said. “But we went over to shoeless man refused and got into a “very calls himself The Balloon Sculptor – decided him that day and he didn’t run away like he It’s generally a fatal ailment, Stangel said, heated” exchange with the families at the to regain his throne as Balloon King. normally does.” noting the DNR would just let nature take party. The families called police. The 32-year-old blew into balloons and In the video, entitled “The World’s its course. In a release on their website, police say the sculpted them next to the Oh My Lolli! Scariest Rabbit,” Boettcher speaks in an Some of the video comments haven’t been man appeared to be under the influence of a candy shop during the Taste of Brighton Australian accent, imitating the late croco- particularly kind to Boettcher. Some say it’s “potent relaxant of some kind.” festival, a revamped festival that took over dile hunter Steve Irwin. wrong to get a few laughs from a disease Officers first checked to see if the man downtown Brighton in July. The Livingston Boettcher put it on Facebook, and a friend that certainly will kill the animal. Others needed medical attention, then arrested him County Daily Press & Argus says at least two of his posted it to Reddit. Within four days, comment that he has a responsibility to get it for investigation of theft. people observed Thurmond the entire time. more than 200,000 people had watched, some veterinary help. ––––––––––––––––– A paramedic was also nearby. according to The Free Press of Mankato. Boettcher disagrees. Balloon Man Blows Past Record Thurmond averaged nearly six balloons a Boettcher last saw the rabbit the night of “It’s a great idea to try to help him and Tim Thurmond of the Brighton, Michigan minute. Candy store owner Keith Karp calls July 10. He thinks it might have a papilloma make him healthy again, but it’s a little ridic- area says he turned nearly 8,300 balloons into it “absolutely remarkable.” virus that’s a form of cancer. ulous to blame me for not helping the rabbit sculptures in 24 hours, reclaiming a record he Karp volunteered to observe Thurmond Joe Stangel, area wildlife supervisor for and taking him to the vet when it’s a wild had for nine years. The current record was during the night and early morning hours. the state Department Natural Resources, said rabbit,” he said. “It’s turning into a thing on 6,231 balloons. He says he’s tired but “doing “I couldn’t do it for 24 minutes, let alone 24 he also suspects that is what it is but is wait- animal rights ... it was just supposed to be OK.” hours,” Karp said. “It was quite a challenge.” ing for confirmation from a veterinarian. It’s something fun between me and my brother.” Thurmond said he had an amazing team to not an uncommon ailment in rabbits, Stangel Rabbit video: http://youtu.be/hgm61LJEwqE assist with his endeavor. Thurmond held the Source: Livingston County Daily Press & said, but he’s not seen it on the top of the Source: The Free Press, record for almost nine years, but someone Argus, http://www.livingstondaily.com head, in such horrific profusion. http://www.mankatofreepress.com

Shop www.braxton-bragg.com for Stone & Tile industry products Visit www.slipperyrockgazette.net for more Stone & Tile industry news | 30 October 2013 Slippery Rock Gazette

WARNING: The Original I-Brace is ONLY Available from Braxton-Bragg The other suppliers are selling knock-offs! was bound to happen. Success breeds knock-offs! Hard The Original I-Brace is exclusively available at Braxton-Bragg. work and creative thought is needed to create a product— It not so much to make a look-alike copy. By the way, don’t assume that a knock-off is cheaper! At Brax- ton-Bragg you always get the best for less! But — as we know, not all copies are as good as the original! Don’t risk your reputation on a copy! Get the Original I-Brace at The Original I-Brace has been real-world tested in thousands of Braxton-Bragg today. Gain peace of mind and the satisfaction of kitchens. The design was analyzed, refined, computer modeled, knowing that you won’t have a call back. and tested by highly trained university engineers. It is made in America with American steel by a billion dollar company. The Orig- You will be glad you did. inal I-Brace is protected with a three step anti-corrosion enameling process to prevent rust and possible staining of the granite. There are no sharp edges to catch on clothing or harm toddlers.

Item # Description Everyday LOW Price 12458 The Original I-Brace Countertop Support, 13˝ Long x 2-1/2˝ Wide, 3/16˝ $10.99 12460 The Original I-Brace XL Countertop Support, 20˝ x 2-1/2˝, 3/16˝ Thick $14.99 12461 The Original L-Brace Upper Bar Support, 10˝ x 2-1/2˝ Thick $15.99 12462 The Original L-Brace Upper Bar Support, 15˝ x 2-1/2˝ Thick $19.99 12464 The Original Upper Brace Upper Bar Support, 10˝ x 2-1/2˝, 1/4˝ Thick $11.99 12465 The Original Upper Brace Upper Bar Support, 15˝ x 2-1/2˝, 1/4˝ Thick $14.99 Typical breakfast bar islands use 2–4 braces per side. Centers should be spaced every 18-24˝.

Call 800-575-4401 Fax 800-915-5501

BETTER PRODUCTS! FASTER SERVICE! CHEAPER PRICES!

Shop www.braxton-bragg.com for the original I-Brace Visit www.slipperyrockgazette.net for more Stone & Tile industry news | Slippery Rock Gazette October 2013 31 Gems Along the Highway Peter J. Marcucci Former Dorothy Lannin Residence Located at Eisenhower Park, East Meadow, New York Special Contributor

hile attending this year’s Long Island Marathon at Eisenhower Park in East Meadow, New York, I came across this unique architectural treasure built by Mr. Joseph John “JJ” Lannin for his only daughter and heir to his fortune, Dorothy.

The Tudor-style home, constructed around 1928 as a wedding bequest, is an eclectic blend of , stucco, wood and stone and topped off with a roof. Kept in excellent condition all these years, it currently houses Billie Jean King’s “Women’s Sports Foundation” headquarters. There is also another structure on the property built with the same materials and style and possibly used as a guest home at the time. JJ Lannin, who is said to have been born penniless, is best known for his ownership of the Boston Red Sox as well as being a real estate tycoon. He was considered one of the richest men in the northeast at the time.

Shop www.braxton-bragg.com for Stone & Tile industry products Visit www.slipperyrockgazette.net for more Stone & Tile industry news | 32 October 2013 Slippery Rock Gazette Low Voltage LED Blasting Gun Light from Larson Electronics Provides Extreme Durability

eading manufacturer and installation. This LED blasting light operates 7W gun mounted LED blasting light pro- supplier of industrial grade from 24 volt current provided by an included vides intense illumination, operates on 120- lighting equipment Larson waterproof transformer which steps down stan- 277V AC stepped down to 24V DC, and Electronics has announced dard 120-277VAC current to 24 volts DC. offers protection in hazardous location areas,” the release of an explosion proof LED Also included is 100 feet of heavy duty power said Rob Bresnahan with Larson Electronics’ blasting gun light designed to handle cable to give operators ample cord length for LarsonElectronics.com. “This innovative low the extreme conditions of industrial moving around the work area. The BLG-LED- voltage blasting light eliminates the need for blasting operations. 7W is designed for use in hazardous locations replacing bulbs and provides a light weight where potentially flammable or explosive gases alternative to cumbersome blasting lights.” The BLG-LED-7W Hazardous Location descent blasting lights may need a bulb replace- and vapors may be encountered and is Class Larson Electronics carries an extensive line of LED Blasting Gun Light mounts to any stan- ment after only 700 to 1,000 hours of operation, 1, Division 2, Groups A,B,C,D certified. This explosion proof work lights, hazardous location dard blasting gun and provides high power this blasting light will operate for years without explosion proof light is designed to handle the lights, intrinsically safe LED lights, LED blast- illumination combined with extreme durability. any decrease in performance. toughest operating conditions and provides ing lights, and explosion proof tank lights. You The BLG-LED-7W hazardous location LED The entire assembly is IP66 rated waterproof, operators with a more powerful and durable can view Larson Electronics’ full line of explo- blasting gun light from Larson Electronics meaning it can withstand exposure to high alternative to incandescent blasting lights that sion proof lighting by visiting their website at features waterproof aluminum construction and pressure jets of water without any moisture run hot and frequently burn out. Larsonelectronics.com. Larson Electronics can has a 7 watt LED assembly producing 604 intrusion into the housing, making it ideal for “Our new LED blasting gun light far exceeds be reached directly by calling 1-800-369-6671 lumens of light output. The housing on this use in wet locations. This blasting light also competitor lighting solutions, the BLG-LED- or 1-214-616-6180 for international inquiries. LED blasting light is formed from precision features a replaceable protective lens assembly machined aluminum for light weight and high that prevents lens damage from exposure to strength and has an unbreakable polycarbonate blasting media and allows easy replacements as lens for added durability. the protective lens becomes worn. Advice of the Month The LED assembly features CREE LEDs for To replace the protective lens, the operator “There are three things I have learned never the highest reliability and performance and is simply slides the old lens out of the assembly to discuss with people: religion, politics and highly resistant to the effects of impacts and and inserts a new one, and can perform this vibrations. The LED assembly draws only 7 process even while wearing gloves. The lamp the Great Pumpkin.” watts of power, runs only slightly warm to assembly mounts to any standard media blast- Linus Van Pelt the touch, and has an excellent 100,000 hour ing gun using an included aluminum mounting From “It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown” operational life rating. Whereas standard incan- assembly that is designed for easy and secure

Hey, Look What I Found!

erry Eubanks has his old wedding band because his grandson likes playing in the mud.

The Sun Journal of New Bern, N.C. reports that 7-year-old Liam Eubanks was staying with his grandparents and was play- farmer’s field along the way. ing with his toys in the mud behind their Lt. Robert Kirk of the Van Buren County house when he stepped on something. Liam sheriff’s department tells MLive.com that said he told Shirley Eubanks he thought he’d the family called shortly after 10 p.m. one found some treasure. Wednesday to report the discovery. Actually, it was the 14-karat band Jerry Kirk says it appears that someone pulled out Eubanks lost in 1982. Eubanks remembered a row of corn and planted the marijuana, know- he had been painting the workshop behind ing that the farmer’s field would be fertilized his house. Several days later when the fam- and watered. In cases like this, Kirk says who- ily was going to the beach his wife noticed ever planted the marijuana would usually come the ring missing. back before the corn was harvested. Jerry Eubanks said he may wear the old Sheriff’s deputies pulled up the marijuana ring again, but also said he would leave it plants and they will be destroyed. Authorities with his grandson as something he could say it’s common for marijuana growers to try treasure the rest of his life. to hide plants in farmers’ fields this way.

Source: The Sun Journal, http://www.newbernsunjournal.com ––––––––––––––––– You Can Reap, but You Can’t Hide Some children out picking cherries with their father in southwestern Michigan ended up finding about 50 marijuana plants in a

Shop www.braxton-bragg.com for Stone & Tile industry products Visit www.slipperyrockgazette.net for more Stone & Tile industry news | Slippery Rock Gazette October 2013 33 The Slippery Rock Classifieds For more info and to reserve your • Edge shaping procedures Classified Ad Guidelines •All faxed ads must be typed–No spot, contact Kurt Alexander, toll-free • Using cup wheels and grinding your hand-written ads–No exceptions. ds not meeting guidelines will not at 1-877-493-0205 or visit online at glued up edge A •Please review all your ad info before be published. www.braxton-bragg.com, then click submitting– NO refunds will be given • Prepping your seams “Hands-On Training” at the top of •$30.00 per print ad, per month. Ads for ads that are submitted with the • Grinding of the stone may be renewed by contacting the wrong contact info or content and then the page. • Tricks of the trade Slippery Rock Gazette. Free ads online! published. ______• Set up •Maximum of 70 words or less per ad •Best way to submit an ad is by going EdgeMate Training. Wednesday, The seminar fee of only $599.00 and •Payment must be made at the time ad online at www.slipperyrockgazette.net November 6, 2013 - Thursday, includes: is submitted. Credit or Debit Card only. for a free ad, or use the online form for November 7, 2013. Braxton-Bragg, • All training materials A Credit Authorization Form is avail- a print ad, then fax payment to 865-688- LLC is proud to be the first one in • Classroom, demonstrations & hands- able by fax, or download a PDF from 8254, (Attn: Karen Richards). the stone industry to announce and the Slippery Rock website. on training Readers Please Note: offer hands-on Edgemate Training. • Lunches and snacks 2013-2014 Classified Ad Deadlines The Edgemate System can be used • Training hours are 8:30 AM to 5:00 The information contained in our in many applications, including back- PM Issue Ad Submission Deadline Classifieds section is provided by splashes, bevels, seam dressing, grind Transportation to/from Braxton-Bragg November 2013 Tuesday, September 24, 2013 third parties and not an endorsement back laminated build ups and tops with and the hotel is not provided. of particular products, companies or inside corners like your “L” shape and For more info and to reserve your December 2013 Tuesday, October 29, 2013 employers. The SRG® encourages all bat wing tops. Because it is portable, spot, contact Kurt Alexander, toll-free interviewing employers to carefully you carry the machine to the stone, at 1-877-493-0205 or visit online at January 2014 Tuesday, December 3, 2013 conduct prescreening of all prospec- not the other way around, saving you www.braxton-bragg.com, then click tive employees, and purchasers of time and labor costs. This training “Hands-On Training” at the top of used equipment are encouraged to workshop will give you experience the page. Business Opportunities use caution and common sense. using the Edgemate 100, the Chopper, ______For Sale the Tracker, as well as the Bandit machines. You’ll gain the knowledge Granite Shop For Sale or Lease: all materials. Come dressed to work FOR SALE: Steinex Used on the best way to use them, as well as Repair Services Everything needed for granite fabri- and ready to learn! This session helps “C-frame” Hydraulic stone split- hear tips and tricks of the trade. cation. New state of the art building, pay for itself. This training session AIR TOOL OVERHAUL – ter and motorized, reinforced con- This 2-day course covers: not a retro-fit. 1-1/2 acres on heavy was developed because of customer Complete overhauls for selected mod- veyor with high sideboards. Igloo • Learn to polish stone the right way, volume, 4 lane commuting to & from demand. The requests for this class els, include ALL NEW upgraded bear- Sherpa model 480x450 has 132 tons using the portable line polisher Pittsburgh, PA location. Turn Key have simply been overwhelming. ings, oil seals, O-rings, body gaskets, of splitting force, 18.9˝ blade length, • Create a polished profiled edge using operation. Call for details, 412-527- Because of a huge rise in the need for head packing, vanes, and the honing 17.7˝ blade height, and a 157.48˝ x a cup wheel and polishing pads 5705. trained professionals who can perform of cylinder. We will restore YOUR 39.37˝ loading conveyor, controlled • Create a contentious edge on seamed ______repair and restoration, by attending TOOLS to run like NEW! FREE Pre- at the splitter console. The price is tops Do You Want 10, 20, 30 + More this class you will gain information Overhaul Inspection. $159.00 plus $45,000.00 FOB, Whitehall, NY. • Beveling seams and making them Installs Per Month? We can take you and techniques that will give you a $4.95 Shipping and Handling. Call Contact André @ (518) 260-2158 or so invisible you won’t need to color from wholesale to and fill the competitive advantage in the market- for available model numbers. Stone email [email protected]. your epoxy ______void left by channel partner’s drying place. The knowledge gained in this Perfect Enterprises, Inc. Call 503-705- • Doing backsplashes up. We have generated over 2.5 mil- class will make you more profitable 2398. Email: [email protected] FOR SALE: Equipment Sale - • Bevel including an inverted bevel Business Closed. Clark Forklift, Park lion in sales for our customers in 2011. in two ways. First, you will now be ______Industries Wizard with 3 adjustable Your phone can be ringing in as little able to repair blemishes or mistakes benches and some tooling, Overhead as 24 hrs. Call today 877-877-1916 that might otherwise require you to Crane 60´ x 14´, Vector Hydraulic or visit www.fireups.com. We are the discard a stone or piece of stone. Stone Cutter, Stone Medic Floor granite marketing experts! Markets are Second, you will now be able to offer DEMO & CLOSEOUT Polishing Machine with some acces- exclusive. Call today! restoration services. This is an excit- sories. Call Karl Stadie, 615-714-5331 ______ing and growing new market. This Tools & Equipment 2-day course covers: or email: [email protected]. Premium diamond tooling and equipment at ______• How to remove a scratch from a rock-bottom prices. Call now – Limited Quantities! Hands-On Training stone surface • Weha Wet Buff Pads, white or black, $19.99 • Akemi 2010 Epoxy Knifegrade, FOR SALE: Terzago F35S Bridge • How to determine if a stone has 400 mi cartridge, $32.80 • Viper Metal Bond Polishing Pad, 4˝ 50 Grit, $18.86 • been dyed Saw. 3 phase with 24 inch marble Steve’s Polishing Pro Systems Tenax Quatro Bucket Transparent Flowing, 5 gal., $137.66 Training. Tuesday, October, 8 - • How to identify a stain blade and 360 degree Hy-Table with • Dupont StoneTech Impregnator Pro Seal, 1 pint, $30.95 $15.48 • Bellinzoni Wednesday, October 9, 2013. Braxton- • How to remove a stain from a granite Up/Down $10,000.00. Photos avail- Imprepox, 1.45 kg, $69.21 • #11135 Viper Calibrating Wheel, 130mm, 40/50 able upon request. Call Paul 708-277- Bragg LLC offers two-day training countertop gr., no flange, $385.95 $125 • Roto Zip RZ2000 VS Spiral Saw Kit, $99 3996. classes with this hands-on workshop to • How to re-dye a dyed stone ______learn how to remove surface scratch- • How to match an existing shine • #21202 Marmo V60, Pos. 1 Segmented Router Bit, $299 FOR SALE: 111C Sawing Systems es from both natural and engineered • How to polish recycled glass Call 800-575-4401 or visit Close OUTS page Bridge Saw. OEM Rebuilt, 16 years stone. Taught by Steve Anneker, the • How to repair Engineered Stone at www.braxton-bragg.com old, 220/ 3 phase motor 36 inch lime- inventor, you will learn how to use (ES) stone blade, 360 degree turn table 6-0 the game-changing Polishing Pro • How to obtain the “snakeskin” effect x 10-0 w/track mount, 17-6 between System. For only $599, this training on Engineered Stone (ES) rails. $20,000.00 or best offer, F.O.B. class includes lunches, snacks and • Edge polishing techniques for Engi- Mokena, IL (photos available upon neered Stone (ES) Stone Forensics.com request). Call Paul 708-277-3996. • Proper tool selection INSPECTIONS - CONSULTATION - EXPERT WITNESS ______Transportation to/from Braxton Bragg FOR SALE: Stone Planer Bedford. and the hotel is not provided. Stone Forensics is comprised of engineers, scien- 3-0 x 10-0 Bed, Hy Power 220/ 3 tists, and geologists with an expertise in natural phase (pictures available upon request) stone installations and failures relating to natural $3,500.00 or best offer. Call Paul 708- stone installations. Services range from specifying 277-3996. Join Us ______consultation to providing expert witness testimony. ach onth FOR SALE: Cougar Park Industries E M ! Stone Forensics Bridge Saw 1999. 220/ 3 phase used For your subscription requests, Consultants in Natural Stone for granite and marble w/tilt-up table address changes, and For more 740 Nelda Ave. top, $18,000.00 or best offer (pictures information, contact: Palm Bay, FL 32907 available upon request). Call Paul 708- FREE CLASSIFIEDS, visit www.slipperyrockgazette.net 277-3996. 321-514-6845 | www.stoneforensics.com ______

Shop www.braxton-bragg.com for Stone & Tile industry products Visit www.slipperyrockgazette.net for more Stone & Tile industry news | 34 October 2013 Slippery Rock Gazette Michele Nebel Peake Joins SURFACES | StonExpo/Marmomacc Americas as Conference Manager

anley Wood Exhibitions is track record for success, she will be an integral Thursday and the Education Program opens proud to announce the addi- asset to our team as we begin executing plans Monday, January 27 and continues through tion of Michele Nebel Peake for show growth. Michele will certainly add Thursday. as part of the SURFACES | significant value to our conference program,” For information on exhibiting at or attending StonExpo/Marmomacc Americas confer- said Dana Teague, Vice President of Hanley SURFACES 2014, visit www.SURFACES. ence team as an independent contractor. Wood Exhibitions. com or call 800-547-3477 or 972-536-6400. SURFACES | StonExpo/Marmomacc For information on exhibiting at or attending Peake’s proven background in planning con- Americas 2014 will be held January 27-30 StonExpo/Marmomacc Americas 2014, visit ference programs, developing new program- at the Mandalay Bay Convention Center, Las www.StonExpo.com or call 800-547-3477 or ming, and overall trade show experience will Vegas, NV. Exhibits will be open Tuesday- 972-536-6434. ensure SURFACES | StonExpo/Marmomacc Americas will continue to grow and further its leadership position in the flooring, stone and tile industries. As Conference Manager, Peake With Three You Get Egg Roll will be working alongside Jennifer Hughes, rec- immigration officer ognized Conference Manager of SURFACES | has been indicted on StonExpo/Marmomacc Americas, to collabo- charges that she took ratively enhance the education program. cash and egg rolls as Peake comes to Hanley Wood Exhibitions bribes from immigrants seeking citizen- with over 20 years of meeting planning expe- ship and green cards. Nguyen worked as an officer for U.S. rience. Most recently, she contracted as Senior Citizenship and Immigration Services in Conference Manager for Coverings, a National Federal prosecutors say 47-year-old Mai Santa Ana, California where she reviewed Trade Productions event. In her 10 years with Conference Manager Michele Nebel Peake Nhu Nguyen was indicted on three counts immigrants’ applications for benefits. Coverings, she was responsible for the man- comes to Hanley Wood Exhibitions with over of solicitation of a bribe by a public official. Nguyen was arrested June 6 and released agement of all meetings and conference related 20 years of meeting planning experience. In Prosecutors say Nguyen took 200 egg rolls on a $20,000 bond. She was set to be activities including session development and her 10 years with Coverings, she was respon- from a citizenship applicant and received arraigned July 1. speaker management. sible for the management of all meetings and $1,000 and $2,200 bribes from two other A message left for an attorney for Nguyen “We are very excited to have Michele join conference related activities including session development and speaker management. immigrants since 2011. was not immediately returned. our team. With her depth of experience and

Why spend $100k for an inline machine when the Edgemate 100 will give you a PERFECT PROFILE for $6k? And you won’t have to buy special high-priced tooling!

• Portable inline polisher “Great for new employees without • Create a polished profiled edge using MADE IN THE USA fabrication experience. After a cup wheel and polishing pads for just two days, she was producing any radius roundover or bevel perfect, clean profiles on granite.” • Back grind your seams – Brian Fansworth, Owner • Make your seams so invisible you won’t need to color your epoxy

Includes: • (1) Makita® 4-1/2” Variable Speed Grinder (#9377 Model 9564CV) Installed • (1) 12’ Track (144”) • (1) 7.3’ Track (88”) New! • (1) 4.6’ Track (56”) • (2) Track Clamps • (1) Track Calibrator

Call 800-575-4401 to order Available at

Shop www.braxton-bragg.com for the Edgemate 100 Visit www.slipperyrockgazette.net for more Stone & Tile industry news | Slippery Rock Gazette October 2013 35 “Boomer” Winfrey The Varmint County Chronicles Varmint County Correspondent Football Time in Varmint County Can Be...well, Different to Say the Least the final hot, muggy days Seems he has a warrant for him and expected of August give way to the he might show up for the game,” B. O. replied. cooler nights of early “I just thought it would be fun to give Shotgun Autumn, the collective something else to worry about tonight while conscience of Varmint County turns to we whup his hind end on the field.” one thing: football. Hawkinsville, as usual, did not go down without a fight. Known for dirty tricks and In this case we’re talking about the Varmint rough play, the Hornets put Viper quarterback County High School Vipers and legendary Peavy Potts out of the game in the first quarter coach Boise Otis (B.O.) Snodgrass. when the Hawkinsville left tackle jumped up The culture surrounding Viper home games and down on Peavy’s arm, his cleats causing has changed little over the past 50 years or so. some nasty gashes that required Doc Filstrup’s Fans of the home team sit in concrete bleach- attention. ers on one side of the field, topped by the B. O. called over his backup quarterback, press box where WVMT-AM, “Your Home freshman Corky Hockmeyer. for Gospel Music & Full Sports Coverage,” “Corky, don’t do nothing fancy. Just take the broadcasts the games. ball and hand it off to Ox, then get out of the Across the field, visiting fans sit on rickety way so you don’t get hurt.” wooden bleachers with peeling green paint, “Ox” Aslinger, a 15-year-old sophomore, picking up splinters in their posteriors when- and fainted dead away, and the two snakes “She’s got a temper, but I didn’t take her already stood 6´3˝ and tipped the scales at ever they move around too frequently. made their escape into an air vent leading to seriously.” 245 pounds. He only knew one offensive The bleachers are generally reserved for the visitors’ dressing room. “That’s not what I heard, but if you didn’t, play – take the ball, put his head down and womenfolk and children, most Varmint After the game, coach Hurley Crutch of the you should have,” B. O. chuckled. “She had run straight ahead. Ox did just that, usually County males preferring to stand along the Higgs County Bobcats swore that his team my team of rough and tumble football players dragging four or five defenders along with him sidelines on either side of the bleachers, sep- would never again schedule Varmint County. scared to death of her after one week as acting for ten, fifteen or twenty yards before running arated from the field by a thick rope. Ever so “They beat us on the field 49-0, my wife head coach.” out of steam. often, one or two men will wonder over behind had to have a four-inch splinter removed from “Speakin’ of rough and tumble football By halftime, the score stood at Ox 21, the bleachers to take a slug or two of Haig her behind from sitting on those dilapidated players, I understand some of your boys have Hawkinsville 6. Peavy Potts returned in the Hollow’s finest product before returning to bleachers, my assistant coach got a plug of been disqualified by the state because of their second half, his arm bandaged from elbow their posts along the sidelines. chewing tobacco thrown in his ear by one of age.” to wrist. The refreshment stand sits behind one end the drunks lining the sidelines and somebody “Well, turns out that Hobie Angel and Curly “It’s OK, coach. You know I can throw with zone, a concrete block structure with a mas- set loose two rattlesnakes in our dressing Pinetar were both too old to play high school either arm. I’m ready to play,” Peavy pleaded. sive wooden shutter that can be propped up room.” football, so I had to dismiss them from the Peavy completed one pass for twenty yards, to reveal volunteers from one or more of the There was some discussion about ban- team,” B. O. confirmed. “I’m still wondering then uncorked one for 45 yards and Varmint county’s churches, dishing out popcorn, chili ning the Holiest Church of Salvation from who turned them in to the state.” County’s fourth touchdown. Hawkinsville dogs, sodas and homemade fudge. Different participating in refreshment sales at future “I sure wouldn’t know,” Shotgun replied then launched an offensive drive of its own, church congregations alternate responsibility games, but Reverend Stonecipher apologized with a guilty grin. “But you gotta admit that 23 but faced a third down and four at mid-field. for refreshments, the churches sharing the and promised never again to bring reptiles is a bit old to be playing ball against a bunch On the next play, Hawkinsville picked up a profits with the Viper marching band. to games. That, and the fact that Abigail of teen-aged boys.” first down but Coach Shotgun Shaughnessy This arrangement has worked relatively well Stonecipher made the best homemade brown- “Hobie can’t help the fact that his pa kept was whistled for being on the field of play and through the years, the one exception being the ies in the county, earned the church a reprieve. him out of school for five years, living up the Hornet drive fizzled out. time that the congregation from the Holiest Anticipation has been building for this beyond McCrackin’s Peak doing nothing but “What happened over there?” Penny Haig Church of Salvation in Jesus’ Name took their year’s season opener for months. Coach B. O. fishing, hunting and trapping. He didn’t start asked the head coach. turn at the snack bar. That particular church Snodgrass is back with his team, having recov- high school until he was almost 19 years old,” “Looks like that McKaskill County deputy practices an ancient time-honored mountain ered from the heart attack that sidelined him B. O. explained. “I admire him for still want- spotted his man in the crowd and started ritual, the handling of deadly serpents. early last season. New Lady Viper basketball ing an education at an age when most young toward the Hawkinsville sidelines. Shotgun Pastor Lucas Stonecipher had just captured a coach Penny Haig, who stepped in to coach men are already working and raising families.” saw him moving toward him, thought he was fresh pair of timber rattlers the day of the game the football team during B. O.’s absence, is on “He can get educated all he wants as long Hobie’s pa looking for some payback and ran and had no time to take them home before the sidelines as well, having been persuaded as he ain’t playing football against my boys,” out on the field,” B. O. laughed. “The referee reporting for duty at the popcorn machine. It to serve as an assistant coach after leading the Shotgun concluded. threw a flag on Shotgun for unsportsmanlike being a chilly night, Lucas decided to bring Vipers to the state playoffs last year. “Yeah, Hobie’s taking it pretty well. He’s conduct.” his cold-blooded guests into the refreshment The season opener this year was against the up in the stands rooting for his former team- When the clock ticked off the final seconds, stand, where it was nice and warm. arch-rival Hawkinsville Hornets, coached by mates,” B. O. yelled to Shotgun as the two the score ended with Varmint County 35, Unfortunately, the cage in which Lucas car- Toby “Shotgun” Shaughnessy, a character parted company. “Of course he’s not the one Hawkinsville 6. “That was a dirty trick you ried the snakes bore a strong resemblance to almost as legendary as Coach B. O. Snodgrass I’d worry about if I was the one turned him in. played on me, B. O. Next year, you come over the crates used to transport hotdog buns. You himself. His pa took it right personal. He’s the fellow to Hawkinsville and I’ll have to see that you can guess the rest. “Nice to see you back, B. O. I see you’ve standing over on the sidelines near your bench get a proper welcome!” Shotgun quipped as he “We’re out of buns. Doreen, open the bin got that she-wolf Penny Haig working the wearing the big flop hat – the one with the two walked to the locker room. and get a couple of packages,” Deacon Wilford sidelines with you. You better keep her under pistols jammed in his belt.” “Lookin’ forward to it, Shotgun, but I might Pennywell of the Stinking Creek Baptist wraps,” Shotgun told B.O. as the two coaches “That’s not really Hobie’s pa standing over take the night off next year. I’m thinking about Church yelled out to Doreen Humpnick, wife shook hands before the kickoff. there, is it?” Penny Haig asked. letting Assistant Coach Penny Haig handle all of the Reverend Sanders Humpnick. “I understand Penny threatened to break “Nah, that fellow is a deputy sheriff from the lightweights on our schedule from here Doreen opened a bin to be confronted by two both your arms last year during the basketball over in McKaskill County. He’s here looking on,” B.O. replied. very angry timber rattlesnakes. She screamed season, Shotgun.” for the father of one of Shotgun’s players.

Shop www.braxton-bragg.com for Stone & Tile industry products Visit www.slipperyrockgazette.net for more Stone & Tile industry news | 36 October 2009 Slippery Rock Gazette Jesse Salisbury Profile of a Master Artist Continued from page 6

The Early Years great place to learn. So where and when did it begin? “When I came back to the US in 1998, my “I grew up on this land [60 acres] and lived parents were living out west and the house here until 8th grade. Ever since I was a little here in Steuben was vacant, so I set up a stu- kid, I liked making sculpture and was interest- dio in the back and started carving outdoors. I ed in stone, but it was hard to get started, so I bought an air compressor and began going to began carving wood in 7th grade. Due to my the local gravel pits and abandoned , Father’s work, I then had the good fortune to bringing back whatever I could carry and then move to Japan. carving it. “While in school, I began studying tradition- “Initially, I was carving figurative pieces al Japanese ceramics and met a lot of Japanese like animals because I could study them easily. artists that way. When I finished school, I was Carving or finding a stone that looks like an a ceramic apprentice for Bizen Pottery which animal is sort of like what Lise Becu does, is one of the oldest Japanese wood fired potter- and is a heritage of being a Maine artist, but Above: This wide shot shows the extensive use of double cell polycarbonate glass for the shop, while ies. I lived there for a couple of years making as I did, I became fascinated with the different a yard full of Big Boys Toys stand ready for any large or small placement of stone, be it sculpture or landscape. Soon, according to Jesse, there will be railroad tracks leading into the shop to facilitate aspects of the stone itself. So I began to evolve, ceramics.” the in and out of large scale projects. And that was in Japan? and eventually half of my work was figurative “Yes, that was in Japan. I then came back to and half abstract. Inset: No handy yard- the US and went to school here and continued “Eventually, the abstract just kept growing, stick was available to to study sculpture. After I finished college, I and I stopped making representational things. show the scale of this immense 67,000 lb. went to New York City and studied at Artida Splitting was something necessary to get to a boulder, so this com- Atelier doing more figurative types of stuff. I basic form, and it’s a skill that you build, but pact car was used in- also studied in a studio in Manhattan with a splitting itself I took to an art form by exper- stead. sort of Italian-style marble carving.” imenting with different stones to figure out What studio was that? different ways to make the splits. “It was called ‘Art To The Arts,’ and I don’t “After a lot of accidents, I would try to know if they’re still around or not, but they recreate (the splits) to be able to control cer- were Italian-Americans who also had a studio tain movements in the stone, and that’s how in Italy that they went to in the summertime. I gained the ability to split curves and split “New York and the east coast has a lot of compound curves and helix forms.” European influence from several hundreds of So these days when you split granite, do you years ago when lots of craftsmen came over, know what the end result will be? but it was more limestone and marble carving Pointing to four crescent shaped pieces of and wasn’t the materials that I grew up with in granite he said, “Look at these pieces. They’re Maine, particularly the hard stone along our all split out of one piece and they are all similar coastline like and granite. I spent a lot and all uniform. There is a natural variation in of time at the Metropolitan Museum Of Art in them, but they are all basic geometrical forms New York City looking at the Egyptian work that I can plan out when I split it. and thinking ‘why can’t I do something like “That’s how I can make these large pieces this,’ but not having the tools and know-how. that have a split surface texture and a dynamic “Through the years, I continued to go back motion and natural look. Feathers and wedges to Japan, often in the wintertime to help out the do not give you that much information, but pottery family and live with them. When I was using a series of very narrow channels in line, doing that I met a sculptor who was carving you get a very smooth and accurate split.” stone. His name is Katsumi Ida who has since When you split a stone and you’re left with become a Professor at an art school in Tokyo. that natural texture, is it hard to continue that “I began working for him while I was living texture onto other areas that aren’t split? at the pottery. I would work for him during “You cannot recreate a split texture, and the daytime and help out at both places. He areas that are split are not touched. There are was carving large sculptures out of granite carved textures, and there are split textures. I and basalt for competitions in Japan during think there is a lot of modernism in my art by 1996-97. being exposed to work in Japan. I enjoy using “He had started a sculpture symposium in the those different textures as vocabulary within an city, and I became an assistant. I did the forklift abstract piece.” operation, and for the foreign artists I did the It’s beautiful back here in these woods. It English-Japanese translating and interpreting. must have been difficult to build this shop I also carved on all the sculptures. That was while simultaneously producing art? really like a graduate course for me. “I began clearing the area in 2004. I wanted “Japan has a long history of working with the shop to be far away from the house and granite, and they have granite and basalt very built on this flat area, and I came back here and similar to the geology here in Maine. The neat cut down all the trees. A friend of mine had a thing about Japan in that period was that they band saw mill, so I spent the winter cutting the Inside the polycarbonate glass shop: Even on an overcast day, the expansive use of glass brings light had a lot of ancient techniques mixed in with frame for the building. from all directions, ensuring no shadow effects on the work and creating the perfect environment very high-tech machinery as well, so it was a Continued on page 37 for the discriminating artist.

Shop www.braxton-bragg.com for Stone & Tile industry products Visit www.slipperyrockgazette.net for more Stone & Tile industry news | Slippery Rock Gazette October 2013 37 Jesse Salisbury Profile of a Master Artist

“Another friend had concrete forms, and I wasn’t doing stuff in the stone industry, but I made these four foot concrete walls—every- think because he was in Sullivan, there were a thing was low budget. By 2006, we had the lot of old tools around from the stone industry. basic shape of the building. Then we discov- I was able to get , anvils and chisels.” ered these windows that are used on greenhous- Was the stone industry big in Sullivan years es, and even though we had to purchase them ago? new, we could easily screw them right to the “Oh, yeah—stone was quarried there to build frame of the building. the Brooklyn Bridge.” “I also wanted high walls so I could have a Walking towards the design room while crane. I was always inspired by airports and speaking up to compensate for the noise of the liked the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston with saw, Jesse continued, sounding like a proud kid large outdoor light diffusers in the ceilings that while showing me his toys. offer light from the outdoors, so we decided to “That wire saw was made in Barre, Vermont, make the roof clear too, and that was key. and the electrical is all new as well as the dia- “During the day you don’t need any lights. mond wire. It’s a neat way to combine hi-tech These double cell polycarbonate windows also cutting with the ancient technique of splitting hold more heat than glass windows do, so in the and creating these interlocking forms where winter, on a clear day, by 9 o’clock, the build- you drill a hole, insert the diamond wire and ing gains 20 degrees naturally without any heat. then cut a hole through one place. Even if it is 20 degrees outside, it is 40 degrees “That drill press in the corner was built in inside. Then, with the woodstove, it’s up to the 1891 and uses a car transmission for speed 50s or 60s. The days it is hard is when it is 20 selection, and our overhead crane came from an degrees outside and snowing, and you don’t old power plant from Machias, Maine.” receive any solar heat.” Now sitting in the design room I asked, You Walking towards the tool room, the resource- were a participant as well as the organizer ful Salisbury began discussing the custom tools of the early symposiums before you were the he makes for his own use. Art Director for the Schoodic International “I’ve developed my own shapes that I know Sculpture Symposiums, weren’t you? work. Modern tools—you just buy them, and Sipping a cup of tea he said, “Yes—there was maybe you modify them a little. Using the no art director back then. I thought it would be splitting technique I’ve developed, I had to a great thing to have a symposium here, and I learn how to make the tools as the technique organized the first one before Schoodic at an developed while finding the right materials art center in Damariscotta in southern Maine. It This wire saw, made in the 1950s, was used for twenty years by a construction company in Barre, such as recycled car springs and old drill rods was about six months long and the artists had to Vermont for cutting curb stones. It was then transported to the shop about four years ago by Jesse from quarries. It’s good steel and you can’t buy pay their own way. We auctioned off all of the and his dad who spent several years refurbishing the mechanics and revamping the electrical system, tools like these. work when we were done. That was in 2004. essentially giving it back its “Giddy-Up” and lots more years of service. In Jesse’s words, “It’s now a modern piece of machinery.” “Another thing is that instead of using car- After that, I figured it would be worth spending bide which you have to sharpen, instead, you more time planning and raising money and issues as well as the human dynamics dealing “You have to have a private commission reheat these tools, reshape them, and then just having the sculptures be public art. with the artists and the public. or two that are substantial enough while you re-harden them every time. Getting that harden- “Later, the Navy base had closed down on “I will stay involved, but less and less on a develop new work at the same time. That’s the ing right depends on the material you’re going the Schoodic Peninsula, and there was this big day to day basis. There is a good chance we real challenge. Having your work displayed for to use them on, and it is trial and error. open space way out at the end. That’s why we are going to form a collaborative relationship sale in galleries is also important, but you don’t “When I built this place, I built this wing just called it the Schoodic Symposium, because with the University where you have a network know when they are going to sell. If you do for tool making, and it is dimly lit so I can see it was located on the Schoodic section of the of resources, and as we continue to collaborate, have art on display, you will have sales, but you the colors of the metal I’m working on. I now Acadia National Park. That symposium then I think we can grow someone into that Art also don’t want to get over-enthusiastic because have a gas forge and do all my forging in the kept growing. Director position. you might not sell anything next year. winter so I have a year’s supply of chisels and “The last one was at University of Maine, “I will still do a lot of the presentations and “My dad and I also do landscape work, cut- splitting utensils. Orono. It was the volunteer job that took over that is a real asset that I can keep doing without ting boulders for door steps and walkways and “To make ten of these wedges out of raw my life. The next symposium will be the fifth, having to answer the telephone all the time. rock walls, so that helps pay the overhead. If material takes a whole day. You have to heat and we want it to be sort of a culmination of This year, Project Director Tilan Copson is tak- you’re going to be a sculptor, being one has to them up ten times and hammer them to a basic what we set out to do. After that it will be in a ing care of 90 percent of the symposium, and I be your top priority even if you do other things. shape. As a rule, chisels out of tool steel are slightly different form but still keeping the core will be the onsite manager again for all the art “If you have to do other jobs, find a way to always harder than the wedges. After they elements of what we’ve developed.” and the installations. That will be the last time. keep them related but be flexible enough to not cool down, they then have to be tempered. If the symposium continues, will you contin- For the vitality of the symposium, it’s import- make sculpting your second job and wind up Sometimes hardening is saved for a rainy day.” ue to stay involved? ant that I am here developing new work.” being a landscaper, because you’re a sculptor. Do you make tools for others? “I was the founder and have been the Art Do you ever think you’ll go back to being a It’s an internal priority that you have to hold on “No, just for me. It would be expensive to Director since it was started, but it was all-con- symposium artist and not the director? to. Be diverse enough to be able to go out and charge somebody for these.” suming and took time away from my own “Yes. Over the years it was too difficult to make money doing other things. It is also your Jesse was now holding a 100-year-old ham- work. I think if the Schoodic Symposium make a piece and figure out the logistics of a duty, as an artist, to make something unique. mer with an angled end, called a sharpeners does continue, it will be with the University symposium at the same time. It was, however, hammer, acquired from an abandoned black- of Maine. a huge part of my development as an artist and Peter J. Marcucci has over 25 years of fab- smith shop in disrepair. He was told he could “It takes a unique combination of skills learning how to be a public face.” rication experience in the stone industry. Send have all the tools in the shop if he tore down because you have to have all the technical skills How hard is it to make money in art, and do your comments to our Contacts page on the the building. and watch all the interns who are real raw. They you have any words of wisdom to artists just SRG website, www.slipperyrockgazette.net. “The who used this hammer have a lot of talent but there are a lot of safety getting started?

Shop www.braxton-bragg.com for Stone & Tile industry products Visit www.slipperyrockgazette.net for more Stone & Tile industry news | 38 October 2013 Slippery Rock Gazette ATTENTION TILE CONTRACTORS:

As Seen On HGTV

As Close as You Can Get to Level Floors and Straight Walls… Just 3 Easy Steps!

ccurate tile setting requires 3 Easy Steps… Step Two: perfect tile leveling to prevent Both the setting and removal of the Insert the Wedges A lippage. Uneven floor con- leveling spacers are quick and easy. • Insert wedge in support slot carefully, ditions–a commonly encountered not passing breaking point. problem–makes it difficult to properly set Step One: • To facilitate, use the special traction- ungauged and thin tiles or even larger Set the Support adjustment pliers. format tiles. • Spread the adhesives, insert support underneath and along Step Three: Problem… four sides. Remove the Support As a result, tiles that seem perfectly • According to tile size, set one or • When adhesive sets, separate leveled during installation, often show more supports on all tile sides. protruding part of support from base. a variance in height after the thin set or • Set the tile, tap in with a rubber mallet. • Use traction-adjustable pliers, rubber adhesive cures. mallet, or feet to remove support. • Snaps parallel to the joint. Solution… Now, thanks to the new Raimondi FREE SAMPLE Leveling Spacers, the installation process We’re so sure you’ll love the new is faster, and they eliminate or reduce Raimondi Tile Leveling System that we’d grinding needed to remove lippage. like to send you a free sample kit. An added benefit is that the low-cost LIPPAGE We’ve also prepared a special starter kit Raimondi system provides a HUGE just for you that gives you everything you savings over the other leading brand of need to make your first project a breeze. lippage reduction systems. To order your starter kit or to claim your free sample, call 1-800-575-4401 today.

Call 800-575-4401 Fax 800-915-5501

BETTER PRODUCTS! FASTER SERVICE! CHEAPER PRICES!

Shop www.braxton-bragg.com for Raimondi Tile Leveling System Visit www.slipperyrockgazette.net for more Stone & Tile industry news | Slippery Rock Gazette October 2013 39 Stone Pro ADA Compliant Vanity Countertop Joel Davis Supports Now Available at Braxton-Bragg Special Contributor

raxton-Bragg is the first distributor to offer the new Americans with Disabilities Act compli- ant Wall Mount Vanity Brackets from Stone Pro Equipment Co.

The sturdy brackets simplify and streamline the installation of vanity sinks in commercial settings where volume is key. General Manager Brad Winn of Stone Pro said the products offer several advantages to fabricators and contrac- tors. “It would be time savings for one thing,” he said. “The other thing is all these are going to be exactly the same. Consistency is going to be a plus. If you had to custom make every one of these brackets for sinks in 200 bathrooms, that adds up to a lot of time.” These brackets mount to the wall and form a free-standing anchor for granite tops with sink cutouts, allowing full access to the floor The Stone Pro Wall Mount Vanity Bracket is ADA for cleaning, and access to the plumbing from compliant and is one of the best ways to mount Above: Shown installed. These ped- underneath. End closures and apron panels and secure wall vanities or desks. It’s a natural estals are intended to be concealed. stone countertop support that can be set at the along with front closure panels are easily Make note that stone or laminated appropriate height for ease of use by someone in attached, giving the installer the choice of using panels of some sort of enclosure a wheelchair. would be ideal for this application. stone, laminated or wood panels for a sleek, modern look that hides the plumbing without accessibility standards called the 2010 ADA Right: A secure mounting platform the boxy cabinet. Standards for Accessible Design. The 2010 such as a stud will ensure maximum Nothing could be simpler than using the Standards set minimum requirements, both support. Make sure when being installed that all building codes are Stone Pro Wall Mount Vanity Brackets, Winn scoping and technical, for newly designed and met and in full compliance with the said. “You just bolt them up. It’s one stop, constructed or altered state and local govern- ADA guidelines. one item you can put in place. It’s there, and ment facilities, public accommodations, and you don’t have to custom build everything. commercial facilities to be readily accessible Mounting holes for apron and With custom building you start getting random to and usable by individuals with disabilities. fascia panels will be dictated by width of project. End panels will be results. This would be consistent.” A percentage of public facilities must meet optional in lieu of application. Contractors could turn to other methods to the guides for accessibility, and the Stone install the sinks but none offer the advantages Pro Wall Mount Vanity Bracket may be the 4´ span – 2 brackets of the brackets, Winn said. “It could quite first such product designed to help meet ADA 5´ span – 3 brackets frankly be done quite crudely and simply by specs, Winn said. “I don’t know if there are 8´ span and larger – 4 brackets and up, using compliant spacing putting cleats in the wall and putting your stone any products like this in the stone market. I’ve on it, but you want something that is a cookie been in the stone industry for close to 10 years, cutter product that you can put in place and, and I’ve never seen this bracket used in this tiple vanities, you could use these brackets for said, ‘We want granite tops on this bracket’.” boom, everything is the same.” application.” a consistant, professionally finished design,’ Upon seeing the brackets in action, it was Using the brackets provides benefits for the The Stone Pro Wall Mount Vanity Brackets Winn said. obvious that they had an application in the end user, too, when it comes to maintenance address a common application for commercial By placing three brackets every five feet, a stone industry, too, Winn said. “It was no brain- and upkeep. “You have full access to the floor contractors. “ADA specification calls for sinks contractor could place up to three sinks in a 10 storm upon my part by any means, but we saw for cleaning purposes or easy access to plumb- to be a certain height from the floor and a cer- foot span, he said. a need for it in our industry.” ing fixtures,” Winn said. “You can access them tain depth from the top of the vanity,” Winn Stone Pro looked outside the stone industry Stone Pro Equipment Co. is an Effingham, by simply removing a couple of screws on the said. “You have to have that sink back so far so for the inspiration for the new product, Winn Illinois-based producer of user-friendly equip- cover panel. You have 100 percent access to get they can reach the controls from a wheel chair.” said. “We actually have joined up with another ment and devices made for fabricators by underneath the sink.” The brackets make it easier to build sinks company who used these in a different envi- fabricators. The company takes pride in the The use of Stone Pro Wall Mount Vanity to meet those standards, Winn said. “It has to ronment,” he said. “The people that we got the design and manufacture of equipment for the Brackets is not confined to one setting, either. meet certain specification for handicapped peo- idea from are a big commercial cabinet factory. long haul. “This typically would be used in a commercial ple. It would be up to the installer to put it to They use laminate (products). Braxton-Bragg offers a full range of fabrica- application, but it could also be used in a resi- the correct height. You basically have to have “They have been doing a lot of commercial tion tooling and installation accessories includ- dential application, too,” Winn said. it 34 inches off the floor to the very top of the and government work for 30 years. We have ing sinks, installation hardware, and every tool Contractors need to be aware of how federal vanity. You have to allow for the thickness of joined with them in trying to bring something and piece of equipment needed to run a profes- regulations regarding handicapped accessibil- the top obviously to be compliant with ADA new to the stone industry. What really sparked sional stone, tile, and polished concrete shop. ity affect the products they can offer. The specifications.” our interest in this initially is we had a remod- For more information on the Stone Pro Wall Department of Justice published revised regula- Where the bracket shines is in settings that eling job on a restaurant. It was very old, and Mount Vanity Brackets, contact Braxton-Bragg tions for Titles II and III of the Americans with require the installation of many sinks at a when you remodel, you have to bring it up to toll-free at 800-575-4401 or visit the website Disabilities Act of 1990 in September 2010. time. “if you were in a bathroom in a hotel or ADA specs. The company we worked with in www.braxton-bragg.com for current sales and These regulations adopted revised, enforceable anywhere it may be and if you had to do mul- conjunction with on the project came to us and new products.

Shop www.braxton-bragg.com for Stone & Tile industry products Visit www.slipperyrockgazette.net for more Stone & Tile industry news | 40 October 2013 Slippery Rock Gazette K 4100 S lippery noxville A ppalachian

R , , TN ock 37918 G http://www. com/FabKing azette W braxton-bragg. ay Pad to obtain the ® Quick Set-Up 19,900.00* A Back Splash Machine for Free! A bonus application is that this the easiest back splash polishing system yet developed. The travel head runs true horizontal to insure a flat edge polish. You can use the 3-Step Viper fastest finish yet. If it’s delivered in the morning, you’ll be producing countertops by lunch. Unlike CNC machines, you don’t need long training pro - grams and you won’t waste stone trying to figure out how it works. All Braxton-Bragg products carry a 30-day, risk-free, money back guarantee. If you are not satisfied with your purchase, simply return it for a prompt and courteous re - fund. LOW Intro Price Diamond Antiquing ® *Call for Equipment Financing Options Description Fab King Work Center F.O.B. Knoxville, TN Save Your Core Bits! Profile Without Tears! U.S. Po st age Pai d Knoxville, t n Pe r mi t #255 PRSRT-STD Without Spending Big Money Item # Item 14141 Offer the Latest “Leather” Surface

Unlike radial arm machines which can deflect 3/16” when fully ex - tended and prevent true edge polishing, the Fab King cantile - vered frame design presents a square and true tooling surface. You can use all of your favorite router bits. No need for a plexiglass scratch guard. Brushes you can offer the latest fin - ishes without the wait and expense of specials orders. It will drill holes in seconds without wobble and extend the life of your core bits. No need to inventory special slabs, with Viper

800-575-4401

PRICES !

! le ab il va A

ining Tra Full-Size Bed Strong Backbone Sink Cut-Outs in 8 Minutes! CHEAPER

and antiques surfaces for less than $20,000! Unlike smaller solutions, the Fab King fabrication bed offers a full 114” of linear travel and 30” of gantry travel. The Fab King can cut out any sink shape using a template (which means no mis - takes and precise dimensions) in as little as 8 minutes. Unlike other radial arm machines, the solid frame will not flex when the motor is under load. Edge profiling requires a solid structure and the Fab King delivers it with 4” industrial strength steel square tubing.

SERVICE ! top polisher, FASTER

Do You REALLY Need a CNC Machine?

w! o N ll The Fab King cuts sink holes, profiles edges, drills polishes backsplashes, Ca

es ud ncl I

EE R F f O

$1,000

! ooling T MADE IN THE USA Real World Designed PRODUCTS ! The Swiss Army Knife Approach www.rye-corp.com a router, drill press, an in-line back Nobody knows a machine like repair - man. The designer of this machine has more than 20 years’ experience in the stone industry. Much of that time was spent trouble shooting and repairing stone equipment. 220 volt, single phase power and off the shelf components guarantee maximum uptime. The Fab King combines the functions of splash polishing machine , and a radial arm sink cut out machine in one. BETTER

Shop www.braxton-bragg.com for the Fab King Visit www.slipperyrockgazette.net for more Stone & Tile industry news