All Slab Fabbers: a Rock Group with a Different Groove Fabricators Helping Fabricators

June 2020 Volume 26.6

The Beacon of the Stone Industry www.slipperyrockgazette.net All Slab Fabbers: A Rock Group with a Different Groove Fabricators Helping Fabricators

has been said by some pretty astute folks that Peter J. Marcucci IT the true sign of an Photos Courtesy Chris Hildebrand expert is when his or her mistakes still look good. Unfortunately, getting to this level requires years Well, it’s a group of hands-on fab- of trials and scores of mistakes. ricators, from all levels of expe- From receiving slabs off the truck, rience who are brought together, to installing the final product, either online or in person, ex- there are hundreds of things that plained Hildebrand. can go wrong. Knowing them is “There were a bunch of people the key to avoiding them. who had followed me online for years and years, and a group was All Slab Fabbers held their first workshop in 2019. The inaugural event was Regrettably, in a busy produc- created, because I had a bad expe- attended by about 150 fabricators, and several stone industry vendors. tion environment, experienced rience with a machine company. Below: Geoffrey Gran, Countertop Factory Midwest, hosts All Slab Fabbers’ first coworkers, diligently doing their I didn’t want people to make the Facebook Live event in April 2020, speaking on developing shop metrics, running part, sometimes cannot keep an same mistakes that I had made, lean, and fielding questions on current industry issues from the participants. eye on their less experienced and I wanted to get the word out. counterparts. Hence, old mistakes This group then evolved into fab- are sometimes revisited, and pro- ricators helping fabricators, which duction is slowed. was the whole point of me doing Braxton-Bragg Makes Significant Understanding these setbacks what I was doing. that silently await the unsus- “Well, the next thing I knew, Investment in People, Process & Products to pecting craftsman is the forte of these fabricators were talking Chris Hildebrand, Founder and about different types of machin- Redefine the Stone CNC Industry President of Affordable Quality ery. Things like what machines Marble and Granite in Aiken, are out there, what features to raxton-Bragg has South Carolina. With his many look for, and what to expect heavily invested in years in fabrication and a long during a purchase. Then, during B CNC tooling and background in heavy equipment, June 2019, we officially started equipment, as well as top Hildebrand knows all too well the All Slab Fabbers, and within industry executives, to inno- the benefits of proper training, three months we were up to al- vate the way it goes to market. and recently created the All Slab most 1,500 members.” Six new sales associates and Fabbers FaceBook group. What managers with extensive stone is the All Slab Fabbers, you ask? Please turn to page 2 industry and CNC expertise have been hired in less than one month to irrupt the market.

In addition, the Braxton- Bragg team has brought an operations expert on board to manage the company’s new FREE shop audit program, helping fabricators streamline operations and inventory for CEO. “We have hand-picked companies. We have now brought increased profit and efficiency. authority figures in the stone in- this powerhouse of people under “Braxton-Bragg does not dustry to propel our CNC pro- one roof to change the way we at- only offer great CNC prod- gram to industry-leading status. tack the CNC category.” ucts at affordable prices, we These well-respected experts are armed with industry ex- have grown their respective experts,” claimed Rick Stimac, panding companies into thriving Please turn to page 9 | 2 June 2020 Slippery Rock Gazette All Slab Fabbers

Continued from page 1 it, they don’t know how to make their products better. We weren’t From Concept to Facebook scared. I’ve dealt with fragile Realizing he had a great con- stone my whole career and we’d cept, Hildebrand began doing a been testing and testing and test- little advertising, and specifically ing porcelain, and decided to bring brought in tile tradesmen. “We in people and show them what we wanted to get tile people into the had learned. We were also look- group, because porcelain slabs ing to get insight from others who have been coming on hard, and had worked with it. One thing that we wanted their experience. The people don’t understand with por- next thing I knew was that we celain is that you’re not supposed were up to 2,000 members, and to use epoxy or acrylic when glu- we are currently up to just over ing miters. Urethane glues are 3,100 members. Not bad for just much better because they dry soft, over a year. It’s been a great place not hard.” for tile setters, fabricators and the With their first successful people in the construction indus- workshop now behind them, the try to gather to share problems All Slab Fabbers did have an- and solutions. It is now growing other workshop planned for May workshops is their travel expense, organically, and there’s no need 2020 but, unfortunately, due to and we can usually get blocks of to push the growth at this time.” COVID-19, this meeting has been rooms at a reduced rate. However, In September of 2019, the All rescheduled. However, not one to we do invite a number of sponsors Slab Fabbers had their first work- be denied, the group came up with to come, which helps to offset the shop at Hildebrand’s shop. The an alternate idea. “We decided, cost of running the workshop. turnout was surprising, he recalls. because we canceled that work- “For example: if we expect 150 “We were expecting 50 to 75 shop, that we were going to get people, we’ll invite 20 sales peo- fabricators here, and we wound a couple of guys together and do ple. They may consist of machine up with about 150. I had been some sessions on Facebook Live makers, suppliers, and vendors working with a couple of porce- and see what kind of responses such as Braxton-Bragg, and any- lain suppliers, and their complaint and participation we get and try one in the stone industry. I’ll put was that nobody would take the to stay ahead of the game. It ac- the word out, and when there is a time to learn how to cut it and tually was Jesse George’s idea workshop coming it is first come, play with it. So the focus of that (AG Stone Granite and Cabinets, first served, and they can talk Networking on Facebook or face-to-face, and offering advice among their members spreads best practices and helps fellow workshop was on porcelain. Atlantic Beach, FL) to do some and give demonstrations on their fabricators find the best solution to common problems from “Being the type of shop that we instruction videos on line, and it products.” mitering, to working with new materials, to chip repair. are, we fabricate everything on ended up being an information Hildebrand did make a very what I call a ‘locked schedule.’ video, instead. Our presenter was strong point very clear, though, many groups out there overrun everything in the coming months. This means that everything we are Geoffrey Gran, of the Countertop and that is that they do not have with advisements. This is one of With everyone on a downturn, working on is a week and a half Factory Midwest. We hope to any direct sponsors for the group the reasons that we’ve grown so due to the virus, a lot of compa- out to installation. We are never in keep doing these- I think it was itself or any paid advertisers. “We fast. We also have no sales peo- nies and their people don’t know a rush, and this gives us the time very well received.” did start a separate online group ple or manufacturers moderating how to prepare for slower months to test a new blade, a new bit or a When asked if All Slab Fabbers off to the side called, ‘All Slab the group. It’s just fabricators, all ahead. We’re also going to talk new material. I’ve always tried to is a paid membership or is it free, Fabbers Vendors’ for companies about fabricators, and that’s the about ways to increase revenue stay ahead of the curve, and when Hildebrand said, “You might be to advertise there. We do try to way we are going to keep it.” as well as the cost of acquisitions. something new comes out, I want surprised. It is completely free for drive more and more traffic to it, to know about it! Manufacturers fabricators to participate online, but we keep (all) sales stuff out of Looking Down the Road Please turn to page 3 also want feedback, and without The only cost to our members for the group, because we’ve seen too “We are going to do a little bit of

Left: All Slab Fabbers group members also post in-prog- ress updates, photos and videos on notable projects from their shops.

Right: This recent poster asked for help identifying a mystery problem with a dark, spreading stain on marble. The most likely culprit? Stain is coming from underneath, due to oils leaching from plumber’s putty. The faucet was installed by a third- party plumber. | Slippery Rock Gazette June 2020 3 Continued from page 2 All Slab Fabbers From shops offering masks “As for where the All Slab Fabbers is and supplies to another shop going, we are not really sure, and we are just during the COVID-19 crisis, to going to let it take its course. I do think it discussing OSHA standards for is going to continue to grow, at least for a silica exposure and how to while. We are going to continue to throw limit it, All Slab Fabbers takes workshops, too, either online or at different on the simplest to the most shops around the country. Our next work- complicated questions, daily, shop is going to be at Southeast Stone in said Hildebrand. Sanford, Florida. Workshops will last two “There are so many things to two and a half days, and will most likely that are discussed within the begin on Thursday. Larger companies will group. Anything you can think probably send one or two people, whereas, of, our members will help find smaller companies will likely take a couple solutions for. Many times we’ve of days off and send the whole crew.” had discussions about how to cut quartzites and what blades Let’s face it, there are really only two ways to use, what sealers to use to learn: by your mistakes or the past misunder different situations or takes of others. The All Slab Fabricators role how to use materials better. is to be a resource for fabricators, tile setters “The safe handling of materials and people in the industry as a whole. It’s in the shop or on the jobsite is also to bring awareness to others who are also often discussed. For these engaged in the industry, such as designers types of problems, we encour- and architects. Got questions? The All Slab age them to use Omni Cubed Fabbers just might have the answers. Give products, especially their Sink them a try on Facebook. Hole Savers. There are so many great examples of our member Chris Hildebrand, Affordable Quality Chris Hildebrand opened the doors of Marble & Granite in Aiken, SC helps fabricators helping others. I’ve moderate the All Slab Fabbers Facebook Affordable Quality Marble and Granite in even had people visit our shop group. In less than a year, the group 2006 and built it the old-fashioned way — looking for information about has swelled to over 3,000 fabricator piece by piece. To see what hard work and our machines. We're happy to members. Chris says, “It's all about fab- planning has done for his company and his help others over the same hur- ricators helping other fabricators.” people, visit www.southcarolinagranite.com . dles we’ve faced.” | 4 June 2020 Slippery Rock Gazette In This Issue Letters to the Editor DEPARTMENTS: Industry Spotlight and Features All Slab Fabbers: A Rock Group with a Different Groove, by Peter Marcucci ...... Begins on 1 White Granite, White Quartzite, and White Marble: How Do You Tell Them Apart? by Karin Kirk .Begins on 14 The White Granite that‘s Replacing Carrara Marble is Quarried in Vermont, by Steven Schrenk ... Begins on 16

Training, Health and Education Sponsored by Braxton-Bragg The Stockdale Paradox: Which is More Important?, by Ed Hill ...... 6 Natural Stone Institute Unveils Slab Safety Certificate Program ...... 8

Industry Topics, Tips and Regulars Letters to the Editor ...... 4 The Stone Detective, by Frederick M. Hueston ...... 12 Answering a Chilly Question, by Sam Venable ...... 13 The City Within the Clouds, by Sharon Koehler ...... Begins on 19 Stone Restoration and Maintenance Corner, by Bob Murrell ...... Begins on 20

Stone and Tile Industry News Braxton-Bragg Makes Significant Investment in People, Process & Products to The Light at the End of the COVID-19 Tunnel Redefine the Stone CNC Industry ...... Begins on 1 Texarkana Stonework Company Adds Making Medical Equipment, by Karl Richter ...... 5 This open letter is presented as tirelessly to heighten company Omni Cubed Introduces Rotating Cup Arm™ ...... 8 an inspiration — and especially and product visibility, enabling NSI Announces 2020 Awards Program Call for Entries ...... 10 to everyone working in the stone us to surpass our original sales Artisan Group Launches New Website ...... 11 industry. – The Editor goals, amid all this chaos. This ICG Appoints Kevin Yeh as VP of Sales ...... Begins on 17 is such a testament to our tal- would like to personally ented and loyal team and to our Braxton-Bragg Greatly Expands Outside Sales Force with Four New Hires...... Begins on 21 thank our loyal customers, valued partners. 2019 Natural Stone Scholarships Awarded...... 22 I vendor partners and some Braxton-Bragg Adds Stain-Proof by Dry-Treat to Cleaner / Sealer Lineup ...... 24 brand-new customers, as well Partnership is a powerful as our amazing Braxton-Bragg word. Lots of people throw this Marketplace and Classifieds ...... 26, 27 employee family for banding word around but to Braxton- together to power through an Bragg it really is the way we ® unexpected track change with approach all of our business re- COVID-19. You are never lationships, from customers to SLIPPERY ROCK GAZETTE fully prepared for a situation suppliers. The Beacon of the Stone Industry like this. Visit our online edition www.slipperyrockgazette.net to We listen to customer feed- place a classified ad and to view current and back issues. One thing this pandemic has back and stay ahead of industry done is make us all realize changes, pivoting our business Contributors & Staff what is important. Our family, as necessary to achieve the best Rick Stimac ...... Publisher friends and freedoms are cer- outcome for all partners. This Larry M. Hood ...... Editor and Design Director tainly the highest priority in latest event was a true test of G. William Brown...... Graphic Designer our personal lives, and I hope those skills. Gina Covell ...... Advertising Sales and Social Media Maven each of you has taken the time Ed Hill ...... Synchronous Solutions to cherish all you hold dear just Of course, we are all adher- Frederick M. Hueston...... Stone Forensics Consultant a little more than usual. ing to COVID-19 guidelines. Karin Kirk ...... Geologist We are still in the tunnel. But Sharon Koehler...... Artistic Stone Design In our business lives, we have businesses are slowly reopen- Rufus B. Leakin ...... Guru of Urban Folklore come to appreciate even more ing. We are all getting back on our devoted employees, long- track and ready to blast out of Peter J. Marcucci...... Special Contributor term customers and vendor this dark tunnel! Bob Murrell ...... Restoration Consultant partners who are the lifeblood Karl Richter ...... Guest Contributor, Texarkana Gazette of our business. We are tre- Thank you for standing by Sam Venable...... Department of Irony mendously grateful that their us in good times and bad. We Read our online edition at www.slipperyrockgazette.net . Use the Classifieds / department tabs to place a classified ad, and support allows us to be what are honored to call you partner. the article links to view the current issue. Send advertising inquiries to [email protected], and comments c/o we are and do what we do. Now, let’s all get moving to- [email protected] . Subscription requests, a classified ad submission form, and archived back issues and articles, gether to our next destination. are available online at www.slipperyrockgazette.net . One way Braxton-Bragg is showing our appreciation for these partners is by of- Rick Stimac fering discounts for current “God knows I gave my best in baseball at all times and no man customers, as well as initial deals for brand new custom- on earth can truthfully judge me otherwise.” ers. Our sales and marketing teams, as well as our entire – “Shoeless” Joe Jackson Braxton-Bragg family, worked | Slippery Rock Gazette June 2020 5 Texarkana Stonework Company Adds Making Medical Equipment YOU ARE DOING Stone Studio is devoting part of its operations to building protective equipment for health care EXTRAORDINARY THINGS Let us help you celebrate your projects and people during our annual providers treating COVID-19 patients Awards Celebration and After Party at TISE in January 2021.

Karl Richter Submit Your Entries by JULY 20. Texarkana Gazette naturalstoneinstitute.org/awards

tone Studio fabricates and sells granite, Smarble and quartz for uses such as kitchen countertops. But it has begun using its fabrication equipment to build plastic boxes that protect nurses and doctors while they intu- PINNACLE AWARDS INDIVIDUAL AWARDS SCHOLARSHIPS bate patients, according to a Masterful Use Exemplary Nurturing news release. of Natural Stone Performance Future Leaders Projects that exemplify the Migliore Award for Natural Stone Scholarship Clinicians place the clear best use of natural stone Lifetime Achievement Women in Stone through beauty, creativity, Women in Stone Pioneer Award Empowerment Scholarship and craftsmanship. boxes, called aerosol pro- Natural Stone tection boxes, over the Craftsman of the Year Award heads of patients before intubating them, reaching through holes in the boxes’ naturalstoneinstitute.org #usenaturalstone sides. The boxes contain the patients’ breath and coughs, which otherwise could spread the virus. “The governor reached Stone Studios employee Justin Moore finishes an aero- out to manufacturers ask- sol protection box to be used by health care providers ing for help, and initially I when intubating COVID-19 patients. The company’s wasn’t sure what we could main business is selling granite, marble and quartz do. But then I saw a plexi- countertops, but it recently began using its fabrication equipment to build the boxes, which protect clinicians, glass box and thought, ‘My nurses and doctors from contamination. team can make those!’ Financing up to $2 million “I reached out to a friend have received boxes, and the box, contamination was who works in the ER to see Stone Studio is working to seen as far as 2 meters from for the Stone Industry if it would be useful and his fill an order from Texarkana the patient. reply was, ‘How soon can Gastroenterology consul- “We are fortunate that we get them?’ We made it tants. Health care facilities construction jobs are con- Request the $0 Down Program a priority, and then word in Louisiana have also asked tinuing to keep our staff spread and we ended up the company about getting busy and employed, but Ascentium Capital is trusted nationwide to provide making more for other fa- boxes. where we can do our competitive financing and leasing solutions. Our finance cilities. We’re really glad to In a recent letter to the part to help contain this specialists develop programs that let you acquire the new be able to do something to New England Journal of virus, we are excited to or used stone equipment you need to grow your business. help,” Stone Studio owner Medicine, staff in the an- do so,” said Mary Adams, Dustin Hughes said. esthesiology department at Stone Studio’s vice pres- Fast. Flexible. Financing. Boston Medical Center rec- Wadley Regional Medical ident of operations and • Financing up to $2 million Center and CHRISTUS St. ommended use of aerosol development. • Application-only up to $250,000* Michael Health System protection boxes in treating Stone Studio is at 700 E. Fast credit decisions COVID-19 patients, espe- Broad Street in Texarkana, • cially in situations where AR. If you would like to a lack of personal protec- know more, contact Kelly Little League tive equipment necessitates Campbell at 903-831- Call today for a no obligation quote: some improvisation. 4482 or kcampbell@cci baseball is a very Tony Zieglar | 281.883.5005 During the BMC doctors’ mill.com. [email protected] good thing because experiments with a simu- Learn more: Ascentium.Info/Rock20 it keeps the parents lated cough, only the inside Reprinted courtesy of the au- off the streets. of the box and the clinician’s thor and the Texarkana Gazette. gloves and gowned forearms *Financing and instant decisions subject to credit parameters. Loans made or arranged —Yogi Berra were contaminated. Without pursuant to a California Financing Law license. | 6 June 2020 Slippery Rock Gazette Training & Education “You must maintain unwavering faith that Your layout and all the files The Stockdale Paradox behaviors are abnormal, you you can and will prevail should use this time to ad- that you maintain could Which is More Important? dress all the things that you probably use some revision. in the end, regardless of never had time to do when The list of potential proj- difficulties, and at the I write this in Ed Hill good opportunity to offer you were so busy. ects can be infinite. Just same time have the dis- cipline to confront the AS late April 2020, Synchronous Solutions quick turns for custom- Training and cross don’t waste this time to do our country and our world ers who want new kitch- training your people. Get the things that never got most brutal facts of your are struggling with a se- ens now. Premium pricing your capacities upgraded to the needed attention during current reality, whatever rious health crisis. Only could be applicable if your be ready when the market busy times. they might be.” a few months ago, we all market will bear it. In such returns. Admiral James Stockton expected that the Spring a recovery scenario, more Equipment mainte- Another action you would bring stronger busi- aggressive marketing and nance. This is the ideal time should take now is to estab- ness volume and higher sales practices should be perform all the preventive lish a firm operational plan right show a more optimis- demand for our products. I applied. maintenance requirements for the recovery. Posted tic result in later months. am hopeful that when you on all your equipment. below is an example of a The Capacity Required read this in early June that I believe that we should Material organization. tool that can help with this section indicates the hours the health crisis has sub- not expect an “L” recovery Rearrange and relabel all planning. The column on required per week at the sided, and the economy has which suggests that we may your material to assure the left lists the market seg- existing levels of capacity begun to recover. never regain the business the records are correct and ments and products that are at each resource step. The levels that existed before items are easy to find. produced. The white cells program allows entry of The Stockdale Paradox, the attack by the Corona Remnant review. This is to the right indicate the any sales projections and explained in Jim Collins’s must face is that we must Virus. We will recover a big one. Go through every projected sales volume that any “What-If” adjustments book Good to Great, fo- prepare for the possibility from this crisis; we just item and discard those that you might expect. The June that may occur. cuses on the idea that we of a vastly different busi- don’t know exactly when. are not likely to be used. column could be considered need to balance realism ness climate for months to with optimism. The opti- come. The economy will mism part is the firm belief recover, but none of can that we will get through know when nor how rap- this. The realism part is idly. Different areas of the that none of us know ex- country will experience dif- actly when it will be over. ferent rates of recovery and Admiral James Stockdale at different times. was one of the highest-ranking prisoners of The key will be to be pre- war in Vietnam and re- pared for whatever rate of ceived The Medal of recovery your business may Honor for his heroic be- experience. haviors. He helped his fellow American prisoners Some areas may real- to endure the confinement ize a “V” upturn which and torture imposed by means that the recovery their captors by encourag- will be rapid and dramatic. ing them to keep the faith The challenge will be to that they would survive if have the capacity in place they faced the brutal facts to meet the growing de- that they could not know mand. Those sales will go when that would happen. to the companies who can A simple explanation of meet the immediate needs this paradox is the idea of of their markets. Having hoping for and preparing suffered through months for the best but acknowl- of “stay at home” orders, edging the possibility for homeowners, builders, etc. the worst. That is exactly will likely be eager capi- what businesses must do in talize on opportunities to our current crisis. return back to normal life- Keep a positive attitude but Organize what you decide to the base line for the analy- The Protective Capacity styles. The pent-up demand maintain a level of realism keep and assure that the re- sis. Perhaps this is the level Planner was designed help This article is all about could be overwhelming. and face the brutal facts. cords are correct with dimen- of sales that you expected companies prepare for the preparing for the best. It Other areas may experi- That is the message of the sions and location. prior to the Coronavirus infinite possibilities that is about being ready when ence a “U” recovery during Stockdale Paradox. SlabSmith pictures. If health crisis. The white your business could face. the country goes back to which the return of sales you use SlabSmith or a sim- cells at the top allow a It can be updated as often work, as it surely will. This will come but at a slower In any case, the objective ilar photograph tool, this is “What-If” analysis of var- as you wish as you gain paradox, like all of them, pace. That scenario may be of every business should a good time to assure every ious scenarios. In this ex- more market intelligence is best understood through easier to manage, but it still be to get prepared for any slab in your inventory is ample, it shows the results during our expected recov- experience. presents some challenges. of the possibilities. During properly documented. if sales are only 60% of the ery from this crisis. A brutal fact that we This condition would be a the crisis, while operational Office reorganization. base line. Columns to the Please turn to page 7 | Slippery Rock Gazette June 2020 7

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he Natural Stone administer courses to em- mni Cubed has announced the newest addition to Institute is proud ployees. Participants are its line of material reinforcement products fabrica- T to announce the encouraged to share this O tors and installers have come to know and trust: debut of a new safety program with their insur- 2020 Silica & Slab Safety certificate the Rotating Cup Arm™ (RCA). resource for stone fab- ance carriers to discuss ricators and distributors. potential discounts on The Rotating Cup Arm™ is an accessory for the Sink The Natural Stone Institute is dedicated to providing safety training for employees in the stone The Silica & Slab Safety premiums. industry. This 8-hour online certificate provides training materials for silica, slab handling, Hole Saver™ Auto and Manual, and also fits all Slim Slab and creating a safety program. To earn this certificate, one designated safety manager Certificate is an 8-hour Institutemust complete andmembers. pass all designated There courses. Withtechnical these resources, and safety trainingmanagers may re - Saver™ models. It provides an additional 70 pounds of lift- administer these same training courses to their employees. The Silica & Safety Certificate online certificate that Natural Stone Institute willincludes be the afollowing $599 courses: administra- sources, professional de- ing capacity and structural reinforcement to bat wings, tub provides training mate- Accreditation & Technical tive fee for non-member decks, L-shapes, or fragile material. Now, there is practi- geNeral awareNeSS Safevelopment Slab HaNDliN gopportunities, rial for silicosis pre- Manager Mark Meriaux participants• Creating a Safety Program- in Wherethe Tosafety Start • regulatoryOverview of Stone-Related Accidentsadvocacy, cally no shape or size of countertop that cannot be protected! • Basics of OSHA Compliance • Safe Slab Handling vention, slab handing, commented: “Earning certificate• No Place for Complacency program. • andSlab Fall Shadownetworking events. • Onsite OSHA Consultation • Employee and Customer Training Features & Benefits: and creating a safety the Silica & Slab Safety • Requirements for Personal Protective Equipment • TwoMaterial Handling prominent Containers publi- program. • Material Handling and Flatbed Trucks • 24-inch lightweight extruded aluminum rail with 6-inch Certificate is a way to SilicaFor full details, visit • cations—theHandling Slabs with Overhead Dimension Cranes show customers and ven- www.naturalstoneinsti• Silicosis: An Industry Guide to Awareness and- • Handling Slabs with Forklifts non-marking vacuum cup Prevention • StoneHandling Slabs withDesign Slings and ClampsManual This program, com- dors that you take safety tute.org/safetycertificate• Silica Exposure Standard and OSHA Compliance . • An additional 70 pounds of lifting capacity • Toolbox Talk: What Is Crystalline Silica? aSSOandciate D BuildingMaterialS Stone prised of 20 courses, is education seriously. It • Toolbox Talk: Crystalline Silica Exposure Prevention (rMagazineecommended for—raise Download) aware- • 180° arm rotation. • Implementing a Silica Exposure Control Plan for • Sample Silica Exposure Control Plan for a combination of webi- Your Company General Industry • Freedom to find the angle that works best for your piece. shows that you value • HowThe to Use theNatural OSHA Voluntary InspectionStone ness within the natural • OSHA Inspection Planning Checklist nars, course readings, safety both within your InstituteProgram to Monitor is a Silica trade Exposure associ- stone industry and in the The Rotating Cup Arm™ is small enough to fit where a standard Sink Hole Saver™ can’t go. It’s quick and easy to and related videos and company and to all that ationUpon completion representing of all 16 courses, participants every will PricidesignNg community for be asked to submit an evaluation checklist to be Natural Stone institute Members: Free attach to the Sink Hole Saver™, giving you extra support documents. The pro- you have contact with out- aspectreviewed by the Naturalof Stonethe Institute. natural Participants Non-members:best practices $599 and uses who meet all requirements will then be issued a Natural Stone Institute membership is $1000 per year where a regular Sink Hole Saver can’t go, and is strong gram must be completed side your organization.” stonecertificate industry.of completion. The cur- andof includes natural a copy of thestone. Dimension Stone Learn Design Manual ($100 value), a Health and Safety in the enough to ensure your piece is safe start to finish. Like all by one designed safety rentrecOMM membershipeNDatiON exceeds Naturalmore Stone Industryat flashwww.natural drive ($199 value), a Participants are encouraged to share this program set of safety posters ($199 value), and full and free Omni Cubed transport products, it gives you peace of mind manager. After earn- The Silica & Slab 2,000with their insurance members carrier to discuss in potential over accessstoneinstitute.org to the Natural Stone University.. discounts on insurance premiums. ing the certificate, the Safety Certificate is free 50 nations. The associa- *Quarterly or Semi-Annual subscription plan is that the countertop is protected from costly breakage. safety manager can then to current Natural Stone tion offers a wide array of available for membership dues. www.naturalstoneinstitute.org/safetycertificate To see a two minute pro overview of the Rotating Cup Arm, visit the Omni Cubed channel on Youtube.

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[email protected] | Slippery Rock Gazette June 2020 9 Braxton-Bragg Redefines the Stone CNC Industry

Continued from page 1

“Partnership is a powerful word. Lots of people throw this word around, but to Braxton-Bragg it really is the way we approach all of our business relationships.”

The new Braxton-Bragg CNC team brings experience from Diamut, Lackmond, GranQuartz, and Granite City Tool, and their experience includes CNC technology, sales, operations, and management. CNC product offerings include everything from CNC machines to pads, making Braxton-Bragg a one- stop CNC tooling supplier. In addition to products, they have experts ready to guide fabricators through the process of becoming more profit- able, from the shop audit to inventory management. “Braxton-Bragg is changing the industry, and I am energized to be a part of that change,” said Peter Hauser, Braxton-Bragg Director of CNC Sales & Technical Advisory. “More than a tool provider, Braxton- Bragg is an educator, aiding customers in building and growing their businesses. We are bringing even more hands-on experience to the market, giving fabricators and production managers resources for tooling and machinery streamlining.” “Partnership is a powerful word,” added Stimac. “Lots of people throw this word around, but to Braxton- Bragg it really is the way we approach all of our business relationships, from customers to suppliers. We offer AVAILABLE AT solutions, not just products. Our customers’ business is our business. We know our ramped-up CNC program www.braxton-bragg.com • 800-575-4401 has the potential to help them grow their business.” Throughout this growth phase, Braxton-Bragg is committed to the same industry-leading services levels I made a promise to myself when I graduated from on shipping, tech support, product knowledge and customer service. law school that I would never do anything that I

About Braxton-Bragg LLC didn’t enjoy doing, and almost every day of the year For over 25 years Braxton-Bragg’s since that June of 1963, I have awakened glad that philosophy has been to offer exceptional products and first-class service I was going to work, glad that I was going to court, to its partners in the stone, tile and glad that I was going to grapple with a problem. concrete industries. For more information, visit braxton-bragg.com and —Janet Reno,Attorney General of the United States, 1993-2001 “I’m not saying it’s not impressive. I’m saying facebook.com/braxtonbraggllc . a saw would be more efficient.” © MARK ANDERSON. www.andertoons.com | 10 June 2020 Slippery Rock Gazette NSI Announces 2020 Awards Program Call for Entries Viper STRIKES the Venom Brand

Viper Strike he entry period for the 2020 Natural Stone Institute Awards Program is Granite Quartz T now open. The association is pleased Bridge Saw Blade to announce a call for entries for the Pinnacle Awards, Industry Recognition Awards, and scholarship program. All entries are due by July 20.

The Pinnacle Awards honor projects where beauty, creativity, ingenuity, and craftsman- Viper Strike ship exemplify professional mastery in the use of natural stone for commercial and Turbo Diamond residential applications. Pinnacle Awards Dry Granite Blade are given in the following categories: Commercial Interior, Commercial Exterior, Renovation/Restoration, Residential Interior/Exterior (Single and Multi-Family), Architectural Carving/Lettering/Sculpture, and Public Landscapes/Parks/Memorials. A Grande Pinnacle Award, sponsored by Marmomac, will be presented to the best overall project. The Industry Recognition Awards recognize individuals in the stone industry for exemplary contributions to the industry over a period of time. Available awards include the Migliore Award for Lifetime Achievement, the Women in Stone Pioneer Award, and Viper Strike the Natural Stone Craftsman of the Year Award. Quartzite Two scholarships, the Natural Stone Bridge Saw Blade Scholarship and the Women in Stone Empowerment Scholarship, provide hands-on educational opportunities for as- piring professionals interested in furthering their careers in the stone industry. Award recipients will be celebrated at the annual Natural Stone Institute Awards Ceremony at TISE in Las Vegas in January 2021. All awards are open to Natural Stone Institute members only. For more information about each award, including nom- Same GREAT Blade, BETTER Name! ination forms, submission requirements, sponsorship information, and details on past recipients, visit www.naturalstone institute.org/awards.

Learn more about the organization including memebership and training and certification opportunities at www. www.braxton-bragg.com naturalstoneinstitute.org. 800-575-4401 | Slippery Rock Gazette June 2020 11 Artisan Group Launches “If somebody had New Website said to me in June or

rtisan Group, an elite make it easier for folks to find July of 1987, ‘We’d network of counter- us online and engage with our like you to become Atop fabrication profes- group. The website is the first sionals, announced today that impression most people have of chairman of the it has launched a new website Artisan Group, so we’re excited at Artisan-Counters.com. The to put our best foot forward.” Federal Reserve, but new site is focused on providing The new Artisan Group website makes it easier for visitors to engage leads to its existing members, as About the Artisan Group with them online, and also is focused on attracting new members and you’re never well as attracting potential new Artisan Group is an elite North vendors to the elite group. members and vendors. American network of indepen- allowed to discuss dent countertop professionals. any economics after The new website features a With 35 members and growing, Vallejo Times-Herald reported. modern design, information Artisan Group covers most major Zoom This In an email five days later to you leave,’ I’d have about each product category of- markets in the U.S., and can han- videoconference meeting the newspaper, Platzer apolo- fered by members, a member lo- dle a variety of fabrication needs said, ‘Forget it.’ of the Vallejo, California, gized for his actions and said cator and links to their websites, from local to national in scale. A planning commission got a little he has resigned from the com- as well as information on joining Its members average more than What do they want weird one April evening when mission. “We are all living in the group. New imagery, text, 20 years of countertop fabrica- commissioner Chris Platzer an- uncertain times, and I certainly, me to do? Become and functionality create a better tion experience, and all Artisan nounced, “I’d like to introduce like many of you, am adjusting way to build the Artisan Group Group members have achieved, my cat,” then was seen throw- to a new normalcy,” he wrote. an anthropologist?” network, while effectively deliv- or have begun the process to ing the cat off-screen. Mayor Bob Sampayan said ering its message to the intended achieve, full accreditation with he was bothered by Platzer’s audience. the Natural Stone Institute. The –Alan Greenspan, Later Platzer was seen drink- “whole demeanor during the Artisan Group President, Jon group is among the first fabri- ing a beer, and after the meeting entire meeting.” The commis- Lancto commented, “We’re de- cator organization in the world Chair of the U.S. ended, city staff could still hear sion had scheduled a vote to lighted with the new website to be working towards this him making derogatory remarks remove Platzer the week after Federal Reserve, and thrilled to share it with the distinction. about the commission, the his erratic behavior on camera. public. A redesign has been long Visit Artisan-Counters.com to 1987-2006 overdue, and this refresh will experience the new website. | 12 June 2020 Slippery Rock Gazette to take a closer look. I took out the water chemistry properly witness on tile and stone. Not sur- The Stone Detective my pocketknife and noted that – in other words, from the evi- prisingly, the mall lawyer caved the tiles popped loose with hardly dence I’d seen, it was not a faulty and offered to settle the case out The Case of Hiding the Data any effort, and then I noticed that installation. of court, so that’s another case none of the tiles had been grouted OK – let’s fast forward a few solved. – or perhaps the grout was miss- weeks. I contacted Mr. Cheatem Now, I really wish the restau- was having one of “those” Frederick M. ing. The strange thing was that and asked if he ever got a copy rants were open. I could use a mornings and was dying for Hueston, PhD the tile going up the sides of the of that yellow pad with the data good, unburnt lunch to celebrate. I a good cup of joe and some fountain, where they would on it. He told me he tried but the of Flo’s famous pancakes, but not be submerged, had grout. other side claimed it was lost. The Stone Detective is a fic- unfortunately my favorite greasy So I went over to the side That’s convenient, I thought. tional character created by Dr. spoon was closed. They did offer a faulty installation. I and tried to remove some of That yellow pad had the written Frederick M. Hueston, PhD, writ- curb service take-out, but it’s not would like to discuss the grout with my pocketknife. evidence we needed to prove that ten to entertain and educate. Dr. the same as sitting in the diner this case with you. The grout appeared normal; it the pH was too low and it effected Fred has written over 33 books on and flirting with Flo, and hearing Can you please give was not soft and was bonded the grout and the setting bed. stone and tile installations, fabri- the same ole stories from the me a call? well. Just as I was about to However, all I had to do was cation and restoration and also regulars (even if I complained Well, this sounded take some samples I looked point out that if there was a bond- serves as an expert for many legal about their predictable stories). like it was right up up at the attorneys, who ing or grout issue, the wall that cases across the world. Fred has It’s funny how you miss some my alley, so I choked were standing right next to wasn’t submerged would have also been writing for the Slippery of the everyday things you take down my some- me like a couple of hun- exhibited similar failure… and Rock for over 20 years. for granted. I guess I’ll pull out what-acceptable pan- gry vultures, watching my reminded both lawyers I was Send your comments to the Pioneer pancake mix and cakes and called Mr. every move, and asked an experienced, certified expert [email protected]. the Maxwell House coffee and Cheatem. them if I could look at attempt breakfast, myself. Who Long story short: I the filtration system. knows– I may end up liking it… set up a time that very day to go Of course, the attorneys had to but I’m prepared for a “burned inspect the fountain. I grabbed have a mini-conference, and fi- Get Integra Adhesives HERE! again” level of quality. my trench coat, keys to the old nally agreed it would be OK to Woody, and my N95 facemask, take me to the filtration room. Like just about everywhere, gloves and sanitizer, and I was As I entered the room I noticed a things have been slow the last off. Perhaps I’ll stop on the way yellow pad lying on top of a small couple of months for the inspec- back to see if I can score some toi- table. I put on my gloves and tion business. I was about to pull let paper. After all, I only have 75 started thumbing through it, and my hair out with boredom. But rolls left (LOL)! noticed there were numerous pH this morning, before I started I arrived at the mall and Squire readings alongside some dates. I yanking on my hair, I decided to Cheatem was waiting for me at observed that most of the read- NOW check my email – and lo,and be- the entrance. He told me that the ings were below 7. I was about AVAILABLE hold – I had an interesting email attorney from the other side was to turn the page when the attor- AT BRAXTON-BRAGG from an attorney to break the going to meet us as well, and ob- ney from the mall snatched it out monotony. serve me doing the inspection. of my hands, and said he would The email read as follows: Well, this is going to be fun, I have copies made and distribute Dear Mr. Stone Detective, thought. Cheatem filled me in on them. Yeah, right. I’ve dealt with My name is Bill Cheatem the particulars, and we were off to enough shysters to know some- (name changed to protect the inspect the fountain, visible in the thing was hinky. Fabricators familiar with the discontinued brand Altima probably guilty) with the law firm distance from the entrance. Well, I had my answer, any- will be happy to learn that this quality adhesive is now Dewey, Cheatem & Howe. I got As I approached the fountain, way. It was obvious that the water available under the Integra Adhesives brand, with the same premium formula, and in a broader range of colors. your name from another attorney, the first thing I noticed was the chemistry was off, and it was not and I need a tile and stone expert. entire fountain was clad in small only deteriorating the grout but Call our knowledgeable Customer Delight Representa- I have a case with a large foun- glass mosaic tiles. I also noted the setting bed as well. My gut tives toll-free 1-800-575-4401 to order Integra Colored Cartridge Adhesives! tain in a mall where the mosaic that there were hundreds of tiles was they either may have tried tiles are missing. I represent the missing. Fortunately, the foun- cleaning the fountain with acid www.braxton-bragg.com installer and he is being sued for tain was empty, so I climbed in or someone was not monitoring 800-575-4401

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Answering a Chilly Question expense account. In journalism school, that was called “creative investigative re- hen it comes to han- Sam Venable porting.” Best I remember, I got dling excess water, Department of Irony an A. W are you a “drainer” or a “retainer”? (No, not that kind Sam Venable is an author, co- of water. I’m talking about ice got into a discussion about the medic entertainer, and humor chests, not Depends.) relative merits of draining versus columnist for the Knoxville (TN) retaining. Being engineers, they News Sentinel. His latest book is Every year when summer rolls decided to settle it the gentle- “The Joke’s on YOU! (All I Did around, along with it comes much manly way. Was Clean Out My Files).” He debate about the proper way to They dueled with slide rules. “I’d say drain it,” noted a me- Boring stuff like “R-factor” and may be reached at sam.venable@ store soft drinks, lemonade, fruit Ha-ha, just kidding. The only chanical engineer whose Web “delta T” and something called outlook.com. juice, and certain other bever- use for a slide rule these days name is mintjulep. “Convective “28 W/m^2” kept popping up. ages—especially those of the is for kindling, swatting unruly coefficient between water and The more I read, the more I real- foamy variety—in a cooler during children, and propping windows inside wall is much higher than ized (1) why I studied journalism journeys away from home. open. Since engineering ma- between air and inside wall.” in college instead of engineering Frankly, I never realized there jors no longer walk around col- “I’ve always kept the water be- and (2) my own drool was drain- “Occasionally I have was much to discuss about this lege campuses with a slide rule cause you are dumping cooling,” ing in massive amounts. come across a last matter. I was raised a drainer. dangling from their belts, it’s a replied dcastro, a chemical engi- But then I came upon an ex- Meaning I, and others of my ilk, mystery to me how they distin- neer. “The ice chest is supposed cellent opinion offered by a patch of snow on top discharge the water out of our guish themselves from the other to stop the heat transfer.” mechanical engineer named of a mountain in late coolers as the ice melts. But I’ve students. One thing led to another, and mechengdude: “Drink all beer become to discover the retainers What Chuck and Larry did was before anybody could say, “When fore ice melts,” he advised. “Use May or June. There’s also have a valid argument. consult eng-tips.com, a Web site in the course of human events”— a funnel if needed. Have fun.” something very pow- This issue was raised to me by touted as “intelligent work forums oops, that’s what historians would I’m going to conduct my own Chuck Estes, a civil engineer who for engineering professionals.” say; anyhow, you get my drift— experiment to answer this ques- erful about finding lives in Oak Ridge, Tennessee. Sure enough, someone already the back-and-forth raged for fif- tion once and for all—just as His brother Larry, also a civil had posed this question. And it teen full computer screens. soon as I can hide two brand new snow in summer.” engineer, lives in Clinton, Miss. kicked off a number of scholarly The majority of the arguments Coleman coolers, 20 pounds of – Andy Goldsworthy On a recent family outing, they arguments. were rife with professional jargon. ice, and four cases of beer on my

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www.braxton-bragg.com 800-575-4401 | 14 June 2020 Slippery Rock Gazette White Granite, White Quartzite, and White Marble: How Do You Tell Them Apart?

ne of the favorite parts of Karin Kirk my job as a roving geolo- usenaturalstone.com gist is to share not just an O Diagrams ® Karin Kirk. appreciation for natural stone, but Photos by Karin Kirk and courtesy a deeper understanding of it. With a little guidance and practice, anyone can learn to recognize the properties and aesthetics of • Light-colored granites have no stripes and is generally light- various types of stone. No matter flecks or blocks of varying col- colored overall. There are many a slab’s label, country of origin, ors. White granites are rarely a white granulites on the mar- or price tag, some basic geologic homogeneous, even-toned color. ket, including Bianco Romano, savvy can help us understand it Most light-colored granites have Colonial White, or Giallo Cream. better. more than one color in them, and Viscount White is an example of it’s rare to have a white granite gneiss. The process of identifying without any darker minerals at all. • Mica is common in gran- stones gets most confusing when • Individual minerals are visi- ite. Mica is present in small they look alike, and nowhere is ble. Look for blocky crystals of amounts in granite, and it makes this more vexing than with white feldspar, glassy areas of quartz, an appearance as glittery minerals stones, which are popular, fre- and a smattering of darker col- that can be silver, gold, bronze, or quently mislabeled, and often ored minerals. (Learn more metallic black. If a stone is mostly misunderstood. But fear not. the different minerals in stone made of mica, then it’s schist. Even similar-looking stones can at www.slipperyrockgazette • Granite can have quiet pat- White stones are deservedly popular. Geology skills can help be sorted out by using a few basic .net/archives/Definitive-Guide-to terns or vivid movement. Leave tell them apart and guide you toward a decision about which guidelines. -Quartzite/ ) it to Mother Nature to create one is right for your customer. Read on, as we step through • Sometimes granite has giant waves of color, veins of con- the process of differentiating minerals! If the slab has minerals trasting minerals, and all sorts of light-colored granites, quartzites, larger than couple of inches, then other interesting effects. That’s a and marbles. you’ve got a pegmatite. That’s big part of the appeal of a natural special type of granite with su- stone. Granite Has a Distinct Look, per-sized crystals. Patagonia is Compared to Quartzite one of the more dramatic ex- Marble and Quartzite Look and Marble amples of a granite pegmatite, Different from Granite, but Granite is the most common and Tourmaline, Alpine, Alaska Similar to Each Other type of natural stone in the trade White, and Delicatus are other Marble and quartzite look and comes in a satisfyingly large examples. alike in several ways: range of colors and patterns. • If it contains garnet, it’s gran- • They tend to be mostly light- Despite their diverse aesthetics, ulite or gneiss. Garnets are small, colored: white, light grey, granites have common elements round minerals that are dark pink, cream. Darker colors are also that make them recognizable. burgundy, or reddish brown in possible. Below are some rules of thumb. color. Their presence is an instant • Marble and quartzite are Please note that I’m referring to giveaway that you’re looking at usually fine-grained, overall; the general industry classification metamorphic variations of gran- you can’t put your finger on an A typical white granite contains crystals of different colors. Below: Even an all-white granite still contains various blocky of granite, rather than the nar- ite. Gneiss has stripes or bands of individual mineral grain. shapes and shades of white. This granite contains mostly feld- rower geologists’ definition. lighter and darker minerals, while • They often have layers or granulite tends to have few or bands of contrasting colors. spar with smaller, v-shaped quartz crystals. Geologists call this The layering can be straight, “graphic granite” because it looks like a stone tablet of cune- iform writing. wavy, or chaotic. • Slabs can have quiet patterns or vivid movement. • If a slab has fossils, then it’s limestone, not marble. Limestone has a chalky or matte finish compared to either marble or quartzite. Please turn to page 15

This granite features black bands of mica – beautiful, but because mica is softer than the surrounding crystals, it can be challenging to fabricate. | Slippery Rock Gazette June 2020 15 White Granite, White Quartzite, and White Marble

Continued from page 14 The fact that these two stones look alike is why they are so fre- quently mislabeled and misunderstood. Your best bet is to rely on the way the stones behave rather than how they look. Thankfully, marble and quartzite have consis- tent traits that you can use to tell them apart. • Quartzite is much hard- by acids, and many types of stone stone. Etches do not affect the er than marble and slightly contain calcite, such as limestone, structural integrity of a stone, and harder than granite. onyx, travertine, and marble. they can be polished out if need You can use a glass tile or a (Science trivia: this is why acid be. For people who love marble, knife blade to gauge the hard- rain caused damage to buildings etches are often considered a part ness of a stone. Quartzite will and monuments before we got of the living surface of the stone, Above and Center: Super White and Calacatta Gold are examples leave a definite scratch on glass, a handle on the pollution that which develops depth and charac- of marble breccia. The stone was fractured into pieces and then the and a knife blade will not eas- causes acid rain.) Dolomite is a ter over time. If that idea makes fractures were filled in with minerals to create a strong, solid rock. ily scratch the stone (though it mineral that is chemically similar you cringe, then you know marble Both the fracturing and the re-cementing happened deep underground, under tremendous pressure. The chunks of marble make may leave a silvery mark on the to calcite, and it’s also affected by is not for you. Choose quartzite or the rock look coarse-grained, like granite. But it’s actually frag- stone, which is the metal rubbing acids but not as quickly. In either granite instead! ments of fine-grained stone. It can be hard to tell the difference. off on the stone). See also A case, acids leave an etch mark or Deep Dive Into the Properties of a dull spot on the surface of the Please turn to page 23 Quartzite, slipperyrockgazette .net/archives for more on quartzite. • Marble is relatively soft. A knife blade will make obvious scratch marks on marble; and marble will not scratch glass. Some marbles, like Super White or Fantasy Brown, may have iso- lated pockets of quartz amid an overall composition of marble. When in doubt, check a few different areas of the stone. • Quartzite is not affected by common acids. Vinegar, lemon, wine, citrus, or any other common acid won’t affect quartzite. Strong chemicals Below: Most marbles and quartzites are fine grained, but a like oven cleaner or rust remover few have larger crystals, such as this slab of Allure quartzite. Note how all the crystals are the same color, which is not the can damage almost any stone, By contrast, marble and quartzite both have a smaller grain case with white granites. though, so be careful with those. size and all the grains in the white areas are the same color. • Marble is acid-sensitive. This is Lincoln marble. The mineral calcite is dissolved | 16 June 2020 Slippery Rock Gazette The White Granite That’s Replacing Carrera Marble is Quarried in Vermont

he Grande Arche de la professional mastery in the use Steven Schrenk Défense was completed of natural stone for commercial Polycor T in 1989 to celebrate and residential applications.” An the bicentennial of the French independent panel of judges from Revolution, however, in the both industry and design profes- years since, there has been little sions evaluated the entries based to celebrate: There were issues on seven project categories. with the exterior of the arch from nearly the start. The area around Located on the edge of Paris, in the north side was even sealed the business district for which it off after fears that the arch’s was named, the Grande Arche de Italian Carrara marble exterior la Défense is one of the “Grande would fall on people below. The Projects” built during the presi- arch restoration team turned to dency of Francois Mitterand, who hard-wearing Polycor BETHEL wanted his legacy to include im- WHITE® granite to replace the portant works of architecture that crumbling Carrara marble exte- would define France’s modernity rior and restore the arch to a place and economic strength. of pride. And, though many new projects are controversial, especially The choice of Bethel ultra-modern ones, the arch was White granite from the Polycor almost universally approved when Bethel White granite, quarried in Vermont, is flawless quarry is being recognized by it went up, as it also showed a in character, grain and purity of color. peers in the industry. Earlier this modern flair that is at the heart of year, NSI announced that the the French spirit. Grande Arche de la Défense resto- The coolly minimalist Grande ration received a Grand Pinnacle Arche de la Défense was de- to fit Notre-Dame Cathedral in Only a few years after it was application, succumbing to the Award. This recognition is given signed by Danish architect Johan its archway. The strikingly spare built, the structure of its facade effects of climate and acid rain. to the best project across all cat- Otto von Spreckelen (later, with structure contains 35 floors of began to deteriorate, with exten- A restoration team was put in egories and is a top prize among construction by French architect restaurants, office and event sive cracking and spalling. The place and it immediately began the highly coveted awards, which Paul Andreuand). It looks like a spaces. The great expanse of building’s concrete frame was scouring the world to find a stone are bestowed by the Natural Stone giant door frame that opens on space and stairs at the foot of the covered with 300,000 tons of that would withstand extreme Institute. The Grand Pinnacle to the world. It is indeed impres- arch have become a popular place glass and clad in white Italian temperature swings, while fully is awarded to “projects whose sive—and expansive. It’s a mar- for office workers to sit and eat Carrara marble. But that stone respecting the original sleek and beauty, creativity, ingenuity ble and glass 110 meter (361 ft) their lunch while overlooking soon proved to lack the resil- gleaming white design. and craftsmanship exemplifies tall hollow cube that’s big enough Paris. ience needed for its intended Please turn to page 19

The stairs at the foot of the arch have become a popular place for office workers to sit and eat their lunch while overlooking Paris. Right: Only a few years after the Grande Arche de la Défense was built, the white Italian Carrara marble on its facade began to deteriorate. | Slippery Rock Gazette June 2020 17 ICG Appoints From our complete offering Kevin Yeh as of the industry’s top brands, VP of Sales to our knowledgeable inside and outside CNC staff, Braxton-Bragg is your preferred CNC partner.

• Extreme feed-rates Reduce run cycle by 30-45% he Ignite Consulting Group • Long-life tooling (ICG) has announced Kevin Reaching over 30,000 linear ft. T Yeh as Vice President of Sales, • Full service leading their proprietary Hot Sauce Redressing & manufacturing in USA countertop selling software efforts. • Extreme edge quality Kevin joins ICG after spending three Finish 100% at the CNC years at Laser Products Industries where he served as Director of Sales and Marketing. Additionally, Kevin has spent the bulk of his career in the building products industry working with brands including James Hardie, RIDGID, IRWIN, and LiftMaster.

“I’m excited to join Geoffrey, Bill, and the rest of the ICG team in getting the Hot Sauce countertop selling soft- BLICK ware into the hands of countertop fab- INDUSTRIES ricators everywhere.” said Yeh. “I was fortunate to sit in on a few Hot Sauce calls before taking the role and was amazed to hear the incremental profits ™ users were able to generate for their businesses, many well into the 6-dig- its! In addition, I love that Hot Sauce gets everyone in the selling chain in- volved including templators and office staff. I have known Geoffrey and Bill for several years now and look forward to partnering with them to service and abrasive technology, inc. grow the countertop industry, utiliz- ing the Hot Sauce countertop selling software.”

“We’re excited to have someone of Kevin’s caliber and existing countertop industry experience join our team.” said Gran, Co-Founder and Owner of ICG. “Having spent the past three years with Call us today for all of your Kevin at industry and partner events, we were thrilled to bring Kevin on to CNC Tooling and Accessory needs. lead our sales initiatives and believe he will bring immediate awareness and impact to our team. www.braxton-bragg.com Please turn to page 18 800-575-4401 | 18 June 2020 Slippery Rock Gazette ICG Appoints STONE SHIELD SUPREME ADHESIVES Kevin Yeh as

If you’re looking for the best, you’ve just found it! This VP of Sales Supreme polyester adhesive is made from the highest Continued from page 17 quality materials. It’s very easy to color and offers the same reliable high strength that fabricators have come to “Kevin will be focused on growing our base of users with Hot expect from Stone Shield sealers and adhesives, to color Sauce and demonstrating how the enhancers and caulk, compatible with granite, marble, software can immediately deliver travertine and engineered stone. profits straight to the bottom line for fabricators. He understands that incremental sales to an existing Customer, is the fastest way to grow a company’s profit and he is passionate about sharing that NEW! story.” To learn more and set up a no-commitment Hot Sauce countertop selling software demo, visit HotSauceYourTops. com, or e-mail Kevin at kevin@ ignite-consulting.net .

Ignite Consulting Group (ICG) was founded to assist fabricators with the business aspects of own- ing a countertop fabrication company. While many fabricators are great technicians and can produce a terrific countertop, many owners lack the business acumen/knowledge that can help them take their company to the next level of growth and profitability. From developing work flow models, to sales and marketing processes, to building a positive company culture, ICG supports the business owners in realizing their full po- Seal u Bond u Protect tential and maximizing profits. “I’ve got five grand- kids. They play baseball, they play football, www.braxton-bragg.com 800-575-4401 they play basketball. I go to all the games. You always have that Unicorns-R-Us up neighbors stuck indoors amid on porches and many, many the coronavirus pandemic, The photos posted to social media. urge to say something ore than a week after Tampa Bay Times reported. Though the massage thera- when you’re watching MEaster, there was still Jurgensen originally purchased pist has not been able to work one mythical creature roaming the inflatable for Halloween, but her regular job in weeks, she them. But I’ve learned around a Florida neighborhood gave it a new life on March 21 said her new calling is provid- trying to spread happiness. when a friend from Washington ing a temporary distraction. to keep it to myself. saw a similar act on social media I’ve blurted out some Corey Jurgensen, 40, donned and challenged Jurgensen to suit “There is nothing better than a 7-foot-tall inflatable unicorn up and show hers off. being a unicorn,” Jurgensen things and embar- costume to jog, jump and dance Since then, Jurgensen told radius of her home multiple times told The Tampa Bay Times. rassed myself.” around the streets near her the newspaper she has galloped — drawing honks from passing “Everyone smiles when they Tampa home in an effort to cheer around streets within a mile cars, claps from families standing see a unicorn.” — John Madden | Slippery Rock Gazette June 2020 19 White Granite The City Within the Clouds igh up in the Andes Mountains of Peru, Sharon Koehler South America, lies a granite and limestone Artistic Stone Design H wonder called Machu Picchu. It sits almost 8,000 feet above sea level (Denver, Colorado, aka “The Mile High City” is only 5,280 feet above sea Another technique used by the Incas at Machu level) and covers 32,592 hectares or over 80,500 Picchu is pillow-faced or polygonal masonry which acres. It was designated a Peruvian Historical is by definition “smooth, many-sided stone blocks Sanctuary in 1981 and dubbed one of the New closely fitted together.” Basically, stone blocks are Seven Wonders of the World in July 2007. sanded and fit together like a jigsaw puzzle, again, without mortar. It was – and still is – a great tech- Machu Picchu was built by the Incas in the mid- nique for building walls. The pillow-faced stone 1400s, centuries before any of our modern day me- wall surrounding Macho Picchu is approximately chanical aids and conveniences. Some of the rock 20 feet high and 6 feet thick. While the two tech- was cut straight out of the mountain, and some of the niques sound similar, there is one big difference: boulders were pushed up the mountain — by hand, If a stone or block is damaged, it can be re-sanded using no wheels. Some of those boulders weigh over and made to fit in pillow faced masonry, but not in 50 tons and were pushed uphill by hundreds of men Ashlar masonry. striving to build what would later become known as the Lost City of the Incas. Since the Incas left no written records, there is There are more than 100 individual staircases in only mystery and speculation as to why they would Machu Picchu. Most of the individual staircases build such a magnificent place. Some think it was a are carved from 1 solid piece of stone without any getaway destination for the Inca rulers and royalty. modern tools, or any ancient iron tools, for that Others think that it was a place of escape when wars matter. There are also over 600 rock-rimmed ledges were being fought. If true, this in hindsight was a

One of the “New Seven Wonders of the World,” Machu Picchu, located high in the Andes Mountains of Peru, was built with a A close-up view of Bethel White granite shows how the pin- mixture of ashlar head taupe grains are slightly visible but from a distance visual and pillow-faced blending registers the surface as a pure white. stone construction – all without using mortar. The Continued from page 16 durability. The choice of the white stones — some of The team found a natural American granite over Italian them weighing tons choice in the flawless character, marble is a growing trend world- — are fitted to- even grain and purity of color wide, as granite demonstrates its gether with much of Polycor Bethel White granite, care and effort to ability to stay white in all weather build a very import- quarried in Vermont. The hard conditions without oxidizing or ant site to this ad- wearing granite became the basis rusting. vanced culture. of a €192 million renovation to Up close granite and marble replace the Carrara marble exte- are clearly two different stones, rior with granite panels in 2016. granite having a more variegated within Machu Picchu. These stone-rimmed ledges The surface treatment the gran- interlocking crystalline structure were used to reduce soil erosion and help with water ite receives ensures the same and marble a milkier composi- conservation. shade and shine as the original tion usually with more veining. A There are over 150 stone buildings in the com- marble, resulting in a clean and detail photo of the granite shows pound. Some are clearly identified as temples. There white surface, with no worries of how the pinhead taupe grains are are also houses and some sanctuaries. It’s not what slightly visible up close, but from the buildings are used for that is so amazing, it a distance visual blending regis- was the way a lot of the buildings and walls were “Like a baseball game, ters the surface as a pure white. constructed. If your project team is facing The Incas used a stone masonry technique called wars are not over till they durability challenges with mar- ASHLAR. Ashlar masonry is by definition “pre- are over. Wars don’t run ble, Bethel White granite may cisely cut and shaped stones fitted closely together be your solution. Its clean white without mortar.” They used either stone or copper on a clock like football. appearance supports slick modern tools to cut the stone along natural fissures and then great idea because it took about 400 hundred years No previous generation designs like the arch, and offers polished the pieces. It is said that a knife blade can- or so for the site to be “discovered” by the out- an excellent carving medium for not fit between the stones, and it is also said that side world. There is speculation that since it was was so hopelessly classical designs. during earthquakes, the stones dance and then fall so high up in the clouds, it was used for astronomy. unrealistic that this had back into place once the earthquake is over. The Sun Besides being called “The Lost City of the Incas,” To learn more about why ar- Temple at Machu Picchu is a fantastic example of it is also known as “The City Within the Clouds.” to be explained to them.” chitects are swapping out Italian Ashlar masonry. —Thomas Sowell marble for American granite, visit Please turn to page 21 polycor.com. | 20 June 2020 Slippery Rock Gazette My fellow com- staff and are ready to hit the able, as these are skills I skills she can use for the rest Stone Restoration and pany employees at M3 ground running when the was taught and always en- of her life. This part of the Technologies, Inc. have all economy opens back up. joyed while growing up. COVID-19 pandemic I am Maintenance Corner been working remotely from It’s a no-brainer, really. Our Governor, the Hon. most thankful for. How else Light at the End of the Tunnel home, with one person who I am usually a very pos- Bill Lee, declared that fish- could I have this much time lives near the office coming itive-thinking kinda guy, ing and hunting were es- with my kids? Lemonade in to box and ship orders. and even in this crisis, I’m sential activities (bless his from lemons, right? It is now mid-April at the Bob Murrell This is not the most effi- sticking with that theme. I heart), so I’m covered here. My youngest daughter, time I am writing this and, M3 Technologies cient method of operation, am perfectly confident that So far, we have not been who just turned 16, is doing according to the President’s but we are doing our very the economy will roar back that successful, as Norris her school online from COVID19 panel and many Photos by Bob Murrell best to keep those custom- even bigger and better than Dam has been sluicing for home, during these trying state governors, there’s ev- ers who can work, supplied. before COVID-19. But in much of the time. Sluicing times. I think of her miss- idence the curve is starting However, based on the So, we have been shipping the meantime, I will stay means they are running the ing her friends at school, to flatten. President’s latest COVID19 a few supplies here, there, as upbeat as possible with hydro generators and lower- the prom being canceled Panel requirements, Texas and yon. There are many family, chores around the ing the level of Norris Lake, (after we had already spent Like some of our older Governor Greg Abbott contractors who work in house, and work. above the dam. Just so you $$$’s on a dress, btw), and readers, I’ve lived through just re-opened parts of his commercial settings who I am an avid CrossFit know, sluicing means the not being able to attend her many major disasters and state economy, which some have continued on, and in junkie and haven’t been water is going through the sports activities (she is on crises including the assigna- argue is too soon, including fact are able to take advan- to the gym in three weeks dam sluiceways and/or the tennis team and swim- tion of John F. Kennedy, the much of the medical com- tage of the empty buildings now. I am hoping my gym generators. Spilling means ming team), and it breaks Civil Rights movement, the munity. I have heard that to do thorough maintenance will re-open by May 1 (in the water is going over the my heart. Those years were Vietnam War, Watergate, roughly 29 states may be and restoration. Tennessee), even though top or a spillway. So far some of my most fond the 1970’s Oil Crisis, the re-opening their economies We also received con- I’ve put on an extra 8-10 this year, we’ve had quite memories growing up, and Cold War, September 11, too, in varying stages, by firmation of our Paycheck pounds and I am dreading a lot of rainfall here in East like so many active teen- 2001, SARS, H1N1, and May 1. Protection Program (PPP) the first week back. I prob- Tennessee and they have agers she is really missing Ebola. I don’t recall the I say, “Thank goodness,” approval today. M3 ably should’ve been walk- to lower the lake levels to them this spring. I just hope government ever shutting providing we can be cau- Technologies, Inc. is a small ing or biking some every prevent flooding- one of the that I can give her some down the economy like it tious, as I am ready for this American-owned company week, but instead, I’ve been main reasons the TVA sys- good memories that she has during this current pan- shutdown to be over! I do with only a few employees sittin’ on my butt watching tem of dams was created. can look back on with her demic. I’m not saying the not like being forced to hun- and exactly who this pro- Netflix, many nights. Oh, Another passion that I am family one day. You know, economy shouldn’t have ker down at home, most all gram was meant for. This and btw, Peaky Blinders, sharing with my daughters “What we did during the been closed, it is just some- of the time. I mean, I may money was manna from Yellowstone, Better Call is my beekeeping hobby. Great COVID-19 shut-in of thing that we Americans be considered a homebody Heaven, as we weren’t sure Saul, and Fauda – are all As you may already know 2020”... have never had to deal with in my older age now, but I how to keep going if they must-watches! from previous articles, I I hope that all of you are before. I have never seen still want to be able to go stretched this thing out for I have also been taking am an avid apiarist and comfortable, with the ones anything like this pandemic wherever I want, when I months on end. I mean re- my two daughters fishing have kept bees for many you love, and healthy. If in my lifetime, and I’m sure want, if I feel like it. That’s ally, the government would on the beautiful Clinch years now. Now that my you get the chance to enjoy most – if not all – of you one of the biggest indi- have to pay either way, River some, too. I wanted to oldest daughter, 24 and your family like am, I pray Slippery Rock readers can vidual liberties that make unemployment or the PPP. expose them to trout fishing in the music business in that you take advantage of say the same. America great, ya know? This way we keep people on while I’m still physically Nashville, has temporarily it. My wish for all of us is moved back home for the that we come out of this pandemic quarantine, I fig- crisis with a better love for ure it is a good time to stay life and become closer to busy around the house. So, our family and friends. As teaching her trout fishing Americans, that’s what we techniques and the art of do. beekeeping are both useful Please turn to page 26 © MARK ANDERSON. www.andertoons.com

How did you stay busy during the quarantine? My We were fortunate to have public areas still open to oldest daughter Logan and I transferred a new nucleus cautious use. Here, we’re heading back up from trout honeybee colony to their permanent home. fishing on the Clinch River, below Norris Dam. | Slippery Rock Gazette June 2020 21 The City Within the Clouds ®

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a time when many strong sales force, and ele- AT companies are re- vate our CNC program. We ducing staff, Braxton-Bragg are now positioned to train, is expanding with four new educate and install CNC GUARANTEED outside sales consultants, products for our customers.” BEST Item# 11492 strengthening its footprint “We have made a signifi- PRICE! and adding some serious cant commitment to expan- CNC experience to grow sion of our local presence that sector of its business. with the addition of these Randy Brock seasoned team members,” Randy Brock is a U.S. Item# 11493 “These four experienced said Braxton-Bragg CEO Navy veteran who has been sales consultants will allow Rick Stimac. “They will in the stone business 40 Item # Description Our Low Price Braxton-Bragg to continue propel our strategic plan of years. 9375 Makita® 9565CV SJS 5” Industrial VS Grinder $183.50 to strengthen partnerships, greatly increasing industry He started with GranQuartz gain market share and in- experience and enhancing in 1980 as one of the very 11482 Makita® Dust Extraction Surface Grinding Shroud $57.07 crease our local presence local presence, all in one fell first employees, when there for Makita 9565CV, 5” throughout the South and swoop. This will be a huge was not even a countertop 11483 Makita® Dust Xtracting 4-1/2”, 5” Cutting Guard $118.47 West,” said Jeff Dykstra, impact on our business, as segment for stone! After with Shoe for Makita 9565CV Braxton-Bragg vice presi- well as our customer and 28 years there, he worked dent of sales and marketing. vendor partners. These guys for Granite City Tool for 5 Available at “Their customer networks, are highly-regarded in the years, and then at Lackmond combined with significant industry, and we are blessed for the past three years. stone and CNC experience to have them in the Braxton- will bolster our already Bragg family.” Please turn to page 28 Call 1-800-575-4401 or Order Online www.braxton-bragg.com | 22 June 2020 Slippery Rock Gazette Stand Ins 2019 Natural Stone Scholarships Awarded fter Amy Simonson and A Dan Stuglik’s wedding plans were disrupted amid the outbreak, a packaging company donated more than 100 cardboard cutouts to pose as stand- ins for the family and friends who SPONSORED BY couldn’t attend the wedding that Saturday because of Michigan’s stay-at-home order. Women in Stone Menasha Packaging Co. in Jennifer Burlak Coloma made cutouts to resem- EmpowermentNorthWoods Granite Scholarship ble guests tall and short, young couldn’t tell the difference between granite and and old, with long hair, short hair hen her husband announced that he quartz, didn’t know what a bridge saw was, and and ponytails. wanted to open a stone countertop com- didn’t know where a single stone distribution “(Stuglik) was just looking for W pany, Jennifer was skeptical. NorthWoods company in Minnesota was located. She now a general person shape, but I was Granite opened in 2015 with a rented shop handles the company’s marketing, managing able to make a little bit more re- space, a rail saw, and a few hand polishers. social media and creating TV and radio content alistic audience for them,” Ted Nearly five years later, the rural family busi- and promotions. Harris, customer service and de- ness has become a success, and natural stone Jennifer’s future career goals include learning sign manager at Menasha, told has quite literally become Jennifer’s life. more about digital fabrication, running a safe -Palladium. The Herald and efficient shop, and gaining more insight Stuglik, a Coloma Township Jennifer admits that in the beginning, she into stone-related customer service. She says: “I police officer, said he’ll forever knew very little about the stone industry. She want to know the product I sell inside and out.” be thankful to Menasha for helping him do something special for his fiancée. SPONSORED BY “I wanted to do something (creative) so she wouldn’t walk down the aisle to an empty church,” he said. “That was a painful part, that Delaware her wedding was being stripped Natural Stone Quarries, Inc. away from her, but Menasha helped bring a little back.” Nadia Grogan FraserviewScholarship Masonry ————— he Chinese Professional adia has had a passion for stone since understanding of stone. He says: “Nadia is a TBaseball League restarted Nchildhood. She combined an enthusiasm mentor to new staff, an inspiration to current its season in late April, and one for geology and a keen interest in architecture staff, a confidant and advisor to peers. I can see team employed a creative solu- and heritage buildings into a career in masonry. her becoming a key part of the stone industry.” As a Women in Stone mentee, Nadia has en- tion to combat the empty seats Her experience has been multifaceted, and she joyed gaining new perspective and insight into at Taiwan’s Taoyuan Baseball remains committed to learning. She soon plans the industry. She explains, “I have been fortu- Stadium. to begin an online master’s program on World nate to have encountered some very supportive The Rakuten Monkeys un- Heritage Conservation. people during my career who have patiently veiled a slate of robot manne- Alan Lisle, Foreman and Manager at passed on their knowledge of stone. I know my quins and cardboard cutouts for Fraserview Masonry is impressed by future is in the natural stone industry.” their matchup against the CTBC Nadia’s hands-on capabilities and extensive Brothers, and some of the robot fans even banged drums in the stands, according to the American Foreign Press. Rakuten's home SPONSORED BY game was reportedly canceled due to rain, but the CPBL will continue to play through the COVID-19 pandemic. Delaware Natural Stone Quarries, Inc. The CPBL is the lone professional baseball league currently Cody Pfeiffer playing amid the coronavirus GeneseeScholarship Cut Stone outbreak. MLB suspended all & Marble operations on March 12, and it ody credits the stone industry for giving duties servicing their biggest customer. He says, has not set a date for a potential Chim a new life and injecting energy and “Cody has a great eye for color and movement return to play. passion back into his job. After his first tour of and has in a short time become invaluable in the MLB is currently exploring a a slab warehouse he knew this was where he material selection process.” plan to hold all games in Arizona, wanted to be. Entering into a field he knew noth- and the season could begin as ing about was risky, but it was the best career Cody’s future is bright. He says: “I now work early as June. Fans are unlikely and life choice he has ever made. in an industry that requires commitment to to be at the potential games, self-improvement and education. My excite- with only players, coaches and Bob Paul, Managing Partner at Genesee Cut ment for my career is what inspires me, and I “essential personnel,” allowed Stone, describes Cody as a rare find at his age picture myself forever working in the natural inside stadium gates. and a natural in sales who immediately took on stone industry.” | Slippery Rock Gazette June 2020 23 example, if a stone does not get So while rules of thumb some- White Granite, White Quartzite, buried too deeply when it forms, times fail us, what we can do is Gator Daze tiny spaces can remain between test slabs to learn about their po- round this time of year, and White Marble mineral grains. Another possible rosity – which is actually ideal, Floridians don’t just have cause of porosity is underground because you’ll get specific details A to worry about aggressive tour- fracturing along fault lines where on the slabs of interest. ist drivers on the road — they rocks grind up against each other. should be on the lookout for Sometimes groundwater dissolves Next month’s article will share aggressive alligators, too, ac- away pieces of the stone. On the instructions and photos showing cording to officials who had other hand, groundwater can also how to test your slab’s hardness, to remove a 9-foot (2.8-meter) do the opposite – it can add bits acid sensitivity, and porosity. gator from a county road. of minerals that will fill in pore Nothing can beat the hands-on in- The Manatee County Sheriff’s spaces. formation you’ll get from doing a Office warned motorists that it’s So we just have to live with little “sciencing” on various slabs, that time of year when alliga- the fact that sometimes granite, and it’s pretty fun, too. tors, um, fall in love but might marble, and quartzite are slightly So don’t let the array of white not always be so affectionate. porous, and sometimes they are stones get the better of you. By “It’s gator mating season. not. That also means that poros- learning a bit more about why dif- This means they could be ity cannot be a guide to helping ferent stones have their particular more mobile and aggressive us identify a stone. We can’t say aesthetics and properties, you’ll than usual,” the sheriff’s office that a stone is porous therefore be able to enjoy them all the more. wrote in a Facebook post. it’s marble, for example. Because A male gator measuring 9 plenty of marbles are dense and Karin Kirk is a geologist and The pattern of swooping feet, 2 inches (2.8 meters) had Continued from page 15 impermeable. The same is true for science educator with over 20 cross-bedding is unique to to be removed from a roadway granite and quartzite, too. years of experience and brings a quartzite and sandstone. after it was spotted “being ag- Granite, marble and quartzite The porosity of quartzite can different perspective to the stone Cross beds can be caused by gressive with traffic.” Sheriff’s can be porous, or not. be especially confusing, and industry. Karin is a regular con- wind (sand dunes) or water deputies captured the reptile Some types of stone have small you can learn more in my article tributor to usenaturalstone.com (ripple marks). In this photo and relocated him to an alliga- pore spaces within the stone, and Deep Dive Into the Properties of and the Slippery Rock Gazette. of Infinity White quartzite, tor farm. a porous stone can absorb liq- small stream channels were Quartzite. (See the March 2020 Contact her at karinkirk@gmail. Wildlife officials say mat- uids and become stained. There flowing toward the viewer, SRG archive, www.slipperyrock com . ing season in Florida begins in are several geologic processes and laying down layers (beds) gazette.net ) early April and could continue that affect a stone’s porosity. For of fine-grained deposits. into June. You’ve been warned.

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For more info, visit www.rockheadsusa.com or call/text Jon Kaplan 216-310-1569 | 24 June 2020 Slippery Rock Gazette buildings and airports, shipping “Dry-Treat is a great fit for Braxton-Bragg Adds out 4-5 times as usual of semi- Braxton-Bragg because we both Good for What trucks of product per day!” said have a focus on product educa- Stain-Proof by Dry-Treat Scott Higginbotham, Dry-Treat tion,” said Rick Stimac, Braxton- Ales You Director of Sales. “Disinfectants Bragg CEO. “Both companies have to Cleaner / Sealer Lineup are going to be a part of our future. sales staff with extensive stone 93-year-old Pittsburgh- That is not going away. It is going knowledge.” A area woman is using the raxton-Bragg has added the The Dry-Treat lineup includes to change the industry. Our goal Stain-Proof impregnators perma- powers of the internet to keep Brecently re-branded Stain- environmentally-friendly through this challenge is to be an nently bond to the stone, providing a stock of beer while doing her Proof by Dry-Treat premium line products for all types of even better company coming out superior stain protection from oil part to “flatten the curve” on the of cleaners and sealers to its offer- surfaces, including daily of this than we were going into it.” and water, PLUS premium pro- coronavirus pandemic. cleaners and disinfectants. ings. Dry-Treat makes 13 products, “We offer permanent solutions tection from efflorescence, salt half of which are stone and ma- for cleaning and sealing stone, and spalling, freeze-thaw spalling and Olive Veronesi posed in her sonry sealers and cleaners used our products don’t have to be reap- picture framing. The penetrating window with a dry erase board for everything from the Sydney plied for 15 to 25 years, as opposed sealers even stand up to commer- that read “I NEED MORE Opera House and Cowboys sta- to most sealers, which are up to 15 cial cleaning techniques e.g. high BEER!!” while holding a can dium, to a homeowner’s shower or (years between applications at the pressure hosing, and maintain the of Coors Light, KDKA-TV backsplash. max) but from most similar prod- slip resistance of the surface. reported. ucts, usually must be reapplied Braxton-Bragg is offering several The coronavirus can cause Stain-Proof by Dry-Treat is not a every year,” said Higginbotham. Stain-Proof by Dry-Treat products, more severe illness, including new line, just a refresh of the same “It is like a great permanent sun- covering all your cleaning and seal- pneumonia, or death in older brand that has been made in North screen that you don’t have to re- ing needs. adults and people with existing Carolina for years, and originated apply. More than a stone prep and conditions. Those groups have in Australia in 1991. No original maintenance company, Dry-Treat Since its beginning in 1994, been advised to take extra care. Dry-Treat formulas have been is a science company.” Braxton-Bragg’s philosophy has The image has been widely changed. Higginbotham adds, “Dry-Treat been to offer the best customer shared and has been seen by “Dry-Treat has long been re- we think they are a perfect addition uses very different technology service and the best value for the over a million people on the quested by our customers, so we are to our cleaner and sealer lineup.” than other sealers, so we are big money. This is accomplished by KDKA Facebook page. very happy to add it to our Braxton- “ICP also produces environ- on education. We work with the delivering exceptional products The station reports that sev- Bragg offering,” said Jeff Dykstra, mental products that kill viruses Natural Stone Institute, and also and first-class service to its part- eral people have reached out Braxton-Bragg Vice President of and during this pandemic, we with quarries, to make sure we get ners in the stone, tile, and con- to help Veronesi get more Sales & Marketing. “It is a re- have been running 24 hours a day it right. Our Performance Warranty crete industries. For more info, beer. Way to be neighborly, spected brand with a long, success- on backlog to distributors that covers 15-25 years of repelling oil visit braxton-bragg.com and face Pittsburgh! ful history in the stone industry and service hospitals, government and water.” book.com/braxtonbraggllc.

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For Sale Classified Ad Guidelines •Maximum of 70 words or less per ad. All classified ads must be typed–No ads Ads not meeting guidelines will not CNC Gantry Panel Saw, 5 Axis, w/Dual taken over the phone–No exceptions. be published. Rail Cart System. Sawing Systems, Inc •To submit a print or online classified •Please review all your ad info before 5 Axis CNC controlled gantry panel saw. ad, use the online form at www. submitting – The Slippery Rock is not Year: 2007, SN: 07M10 Original use: slipperyrockgazette.net/listingform – responsible for ads submitted with the Aerated concrete panels. Maximum mate- you will be sent a confirmation email. wrong contact info or content. rial dimensions: Thickness- 12˝, Width- Send other ad inquiries to publisher@ 25.5˝, Length- 256˝. Blade size: 48˝. Saw slipperyrockgazette.net. Motor: 40hp, 460v, 3ph . Steel Piers for tram rails (upgraded from masonry walls). 2020 Classified Ad Deadlines Dual Rail car system to move aerated concrete slabs in and out of the cutting zone. Issue Ad Submission Deadline (2) powered rail cars, 260˝ x 26˝, height July 2020 Friday, May 22, 2020 24˝ above floor. (2) sets of rails. Phone: August 2020 Friday, June 26, 2020 (334)799-4149, [email protected]. ______September 2020 Friday, July 24, 2020 2011 Fab King with All Tooling. Pur- chased new in 2012 for $20,000. Asking $9500. Several features: 240 Volt, 3 HP IGLOO 70 400 X 350 motor, 114 inch X-axis travel, 30 inch Y-axis travel, and 8 inch Z-axis travel, variable speed 2,700-10,000 RPM, dust free operation, center & halo water feed, $43,600.00 USD EXW precision control, gas water feed, heavy Whitehall, NY duty spindle bearing for long life, water • 77 TON SPLITTING FORCE consumption 2 gallons per minute, ide- ally below 10 microns purity. Excellent • 15.75” BLADE LENGTH condition. Keith Shishnia, 605-380-5427. • 13.78” SPLITTING HEIGHT Email: [email protected]. • 11 KW PUMP UPGRADE ______• 6.02” PER SECOND DESCENT Used Heavy Duty Rails for $800. We • 7.09” PER SECOND RETRACT have custom-made rails similar to WEHA • TESTED and PRESSURES SET PRIOR TO SHIPMENT Hippo HD bundle rack. Ours come with • CURRENTLY IN STOCK, WHITEHALL, NY 12887 (518) 499-0602 (2) 10´ rail sections and 14 poles. $800 - [email protected] Please call 770-218-0077 - email for photos. Email: [email protected]. www.ApexEquipmentInternational.com ______Tomahawk Stone Splitter. Purchased new from Braxton-Bragg in Feb. 2015.... YOU The Raptor Aqua-Plate Rail Saw Services for includes fire pit cutter add-on attachment. SAVE% makes all other rail saws obsolete! Distributors and Stone Quest Like New Condition....$7,000 invested.... 15 Fabricators is ready to provide you with our service to SALE PRICE: $3,250 CASH. Contact: support your slabs distribution such as: The Raptor cuts twice as fast as other rail Jon Hobson, [email protected]. Ask for Josef • Unloading Containers • Slab Storage ______saws, at a fraction of the cost. The Raptor (732) 750-3090 • Loading Orders on Trucks Used GMM Eura 35A TI Saw for Sale also cuts small tapered cuts, which are We have a used 2004 GMM eura 35A TI not possible with other model saws. 271 ADELPHIA RD • FARMINGDALE, NJ • 07727 with tilting table for sale. S/N: 1847 $22,500.00 Please call or email for photos. REG. $1,295.00 countertop installations for high-end res- 770-218-0077, or email salesmgr@for Help Wanted idences. Must be willing to wear many stone.com . $ Item# 1,100.00 hats and instruct very talented workers. ______14159 Digital Template Tech. Experience with Please call or send resume. Contact: ScandInvent AB-Cn Cut C-3 2004 LT 55 and/or Proliner a must. Top pay and Brian Twardowski, 561-881-2155, or model for sale. Purchased new in 2004 health benefits. Company established 27 Email: [email protected] and in good condition now. This small www.braxton-bragg.com • 1-800-575-4401 years. South Florida territory. Company ______bed, CNC is for sale by the original owner vehicle and expenses covered. Join a win- for $12,500.00. Please call or email for All Positions Leading Stone Fabricator. ning team! Real Stone Granite. Contact: pictures. Call Hunter Olive, 910-484-5277 Looking for talented, happy, self-oriented Jose D. Ubilla, 772-489-9964, jose@ Email, [email protected] . commercial to build a direct to consumer shop with radiant floor heat, house/office. individuals to join our teams of sales, ______realstoneandgranite.com. marketing channel. With over 20 million Imagine not getting all your stuff ripped ______field tech, fabrication, shop management, installers. Great incentives and pay based Used Heavy Duty Rails for $800. in countertop sales at this time, we will off when you forget to lock your shop or Looking for craftsmen to work for our on experience and review. Contact Ozzy We have custom made rails simi- help you Sell More Granite. Call 877- pickup? $880K - terms considered. Phone: company, White House Stone. We are Yilma, 703-698-5595, stonecarewhole lar to WEHA Hippo HD bundle rack. 877-1916 or visit www.FireUps.com for 406-323-2223, [email protected]. located in sunny South Florida. We wel- [email protected]. Ours come with two 10´ rail sections more details. ______come experienced technicians or hard ______and 14 poles. $800 — Please call 770- ______working, motivated helpers who want to 218-0077 or email salesmgr@for Looking for Stone Care Products learn the trade. Please email us with any stone.com . Smack dab in the middle of Big Sky Wholesale Distributor. MB Stone questions or comments. We would love to ______Country. Established stone quarry and Care is now actively seeking for new stone fabrication business located in central Wholesalers and Business Partners. We have you join our team. Contact Peggy at Join Us Montana. Small town, but short drive to are offering Significant Discounts on all 561-881-2155, email peggy@whitehouse Business Opportunities largest city. Strong local market in sea- MB Stone Care Bulk Purchase, low MOQ stone.com Each Month! ______son and year-round truckload qty sales to and Professionally Product & Marketing For your subscription requests, How Many More Sales Do You Want Western U.S. and Pacific Northwest. Uber Materials. Contact Joe at stonecarewhole- Seeking Project Manager. White House address changes, and This Month? Let’s partner up and grow used 17 semi-trailers of our stone for their [email protected] for more details. Stone is currently seeking seasoned full- your business. We have been helping $300M new office complex in SF last year. ______FREE CLASSIFIEDS, time Project Manager. Must have well visit www.slipperyrockgazette.net granite fabricators since 2009 go from Includes 2/3 of a city block, new 2400 sq.ft. rounded knowledge of floor, wall, and | 28 June 2020 Slippery Rock Gazette BB Expands Outside Sales Force

Continued from page 21 hit the ground running in a Maximum Protection territory I am very familiar “I’ve covered this territory with for Braxton-Bragg,” for You and Your Surfaces for 20 years,” said Brock. “I said Carrier. love getting to meet the peo- These additions join ple in this industry and it is Braxton-Bragg sales consul- different every day. I know tants hired last month, and this territory like the back of will allow Braxton-Bragg my hand, and I’m excited to outside sales to cover the get Braxton-Bragg products United States, with decades in the hands of my long-time of stone industry and CNC customers and friends.” knowledge. Jerry Herring “At a time when many Robert Ruiz brings more operating, programming and companies are in a holding than 30 years of sales expe- maintenance. pattern, Braxton-Bragg is rience in the stone industry Herring started his stone moving full steam ahead to the Florida market. Ruiz career in a granite/head- with our strategic plan for has worked for GranQuartz, stone shop in 2004 where he expanded local coverage, Ermator, Stone Essentials, learned to template, fabri- and a robust CNC program and Lackmond. He has cate, operate CNCs, and in- that rivals any in the indus- worked in all aspects of the stall and repair countertops. try,” claimed Stimac. “Our stone industry from resto- Over his career he has both enhanced sales organiza- ration, sealers, fabrication, run CNCs and managed tion will allow us to reach installation, and the import- shops. In 2009 he was pro- and surpass those goals. We ing and exporting of natural moted to general manager are there for our fabricator and significantly increased Protect you, your customer and your porous surfaces with the number of square feet WATER ® ® BASED STONETECH BulletProof Sealer – the water-based, fabricated daily. He then * maximum stain protecting sealer that’s safe and effective. gained experience as a tech- www.laticrete.com | 1.800.243.4788 nical salesman, selling CNC A-8947-0420 ©2020 LATICRETE International, Inc. All trademarks shown are the intellectual properties of their respective owners. *Safer than solvent-based. tools and teaching fabricators how to run CNC machines, from setting tools, to basic and advanced operating/programming, mainte- "It's Done!" nance, and even organizing shop flow. Before joining Brandon Carrier Robert Ruiz the Braxton-Bragg team, he worked for 7 years at DTS partners from the planning stone. He was also the vice and Lackmond. stage, to training, educa- SinkBot CNC president of sales for Stone “The people in this in- tion and installation of CNC Brokers of America in dustry are amazing; most systems and products to Portable CNC for Cutting your Sink Cutouts Miami for 8 years. He people I meet turn into increase their profits and headed the GranQuartz friends and I can’t wait to efficiency.” Cut your Sinks for restoration division in the share the same experience $100 / week Southeast territory, and then with Braxton-Bragg,” said Since its beginning in less than $400 per month (60 payments) was promoted to the tooling Herring. 1994, Braxton-Bragg’s phi- division. Ruiz went on to be losophy has been to offer the the store manager in charge Brandon Carrier has best customer service and of the Florida region. five years of experience the best value for the money. “Braxton-Bragg has a in the stone industry. He This is accomplished by de- great reputation in the mar- started in customer service livering exceptional prod- ketplace and I think we are and worked his way up to ucts and first-class service poised for extreme growth outside sales. He has been to its partners in the stone, with the backing we need to working in Georgia and tile, and concrete industries. succeed,” said Ruiz. “The the South Carolina territory For more info, visit brax- Simple & Easy to Program company’s professionalism, for the past two years with ton-bragg.com and face Si n k B o t C NC R ou t er i s P o rt a b l e f o r L- s ha pe d a n d o ve r s iz e d to p s leadership, and team-build- Lackmond. “I am excited to book.com/braxtonbraggllc. In c l ud es C o nt r o l - W or k St a t i o n to li f t a nd c ar r y th e S i n k B o t C N C ing atmosphere empowers employees to use our talents Va r i ab le -s p e e d S p in d l e w i t h c e nt e r w a t e r fe e d t o r u n f i n e r gr i t bits in the best way possible.” “We long to know answers, even when we lack C a l l f o r d e t a i l s Jerry Herring has vast the capability to bear those answers. Knowledge 6 1 2 -7 4 1 - 6 51 0 CNC experience from fab- is only as safe as our wisdom.” E d g e m a t e S t o n e T o o l s . c o m ricating and installing, to — Michael Grumley, Leap consulting on advanced | Slippery Rock Gazette June 2020 29 Are you compliant with OSHA Crystalline Silica rules and guidelines? Automatic Dry Dust Collection Booths The Filter Project Dry Dust Collector Booth is made to trap 99.99% of Dust from Granite, Marble, Engineered Stone, Quartz, Quartzite, and other airborne particles. Filter Project Dry Dust Collection Booths are all stainless steel, heavy duty, dry dust collectors. With the additional requirements initiated by OSHA for Silica in the granite and engineered stone, the Filter Project Clean Air Dry Dust Collection Booths will be a major advantage in removing silica dust from the air. How does the Dry Dust Collection Booth Work? The Filter Project Dry Dust Collectors have specially designed cloth filtering sleeves inside the Dust Collector. The Dry Dust Suction Wall’s powerful motors create a strong vacuum that pulls the dust particles horizontally from the work bench directly into the dust suction wall, then pulls it down to the bottom of the wall and inside the unit. The cloth filtering sleeves trap the dust and only allows 99.99% clean air to come out of the top. The dust is then collected in the catch basin draw at the bottom. Every day or once a week simply empty the dust that has been collected in the bottom of the catch basin. The Filter Project Dry Dust Collection Booth comes with a 3 ft (1 meter) extension enclosure that provides additional dust control and greater vacuum efficiency. 6 ft (2 meter) extension enclosures are available as options. Filter Project Automatic Dry Dust Collector are available in 10 FT (3 meter) and 13 FT (4 meter). 6.5 FT (2 meter) available by special order only.

ALSO AVAILABLE Wet Dust Collection Booth Water Walls The Filter Project Wet Dust Collection Booth Water Wall Dust collector is an all aluminum, heavy duty, wet dust collector designed to trap 90% of dust from Granite, Marble, Engineered Stone, Quartz, Quartzite, and other airborne particles.

The Filter Project Water Dust Collection Booth comes with a 3 ft (1 meter) extension enclosure that provides additional dust control and great vacuum efficiency. 6 ft (2 meter) extension enclosures are available as options. Filter Project Water Wall Dust Collector are available in 10 FT (3 meter) and 13 FT (4 meter). 6.5 FT (2 meter) available by special order only.

Visit your preferred Weha distributor to purchase • more info at www.wehausa.com | 30 June 2020 Slippery Rock Gazette Dry-Treat STAIN-PROOF World-Leading Sealers and Enhancers

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