NEWS

Volume 6, Issue 6 The Newsletter for PMI Members — by PMI Members November/December 2003

PMI is Reaching Beyond Its “Traditional” Borders by: Ralph Herrbach, PMI President Thank you once again to each of actions in the form of public relations, credits” for you who attended the fall meeting in and lobbying efforts, we have those in Washington, D.C. It takes impacted the horizon of industry allied fields participation at a high level and good manufacturers to avoid costly and preparation by those in leadership obstacles. associations. positions to make these meetings More recently, in our effort to We will offer successful. It appears all those present broaden the reach, impact and image certification during our meeting agree that the of PMI, we have embarked upon an of our own as Ralph Herrbach Plumbing Manufacturers Institute is a initiative to push the activity of the well. sound organization with an excellent association more actively into a role of Secondly, we are exploring what staff and dedicated manufacturer advancing industry education and opportunities might exist by offering members. We can all share in the training. After all we are the “associate type” memberships to other pride of how PMI has evolved since its “Plumbing Manufacturers Institute.” classes of related industry partners. rebirth in 1997 and 1998. Through these efforts, it certainly can The result will be to expand the The theme of this year’s meeting be said that we are shaping the “reach” and “influence” of PMI and at “SHAPING THE FUTURE” was industry and its future as well. We are the same time enrich opportunities for particularly relevant from my vantage doing so by broadening the awareness dialogue, further education and point, and in a number of ways. and knowledge base within the ranks networking to ultimately achieve our Certainly PMI’s historical strength and of member companies…as well as goal of PMI being recognized as the leadership in the arena of codes and manufacturers in the “not yet acknowledged “center of expertise” standards is a continual way in which members” category. With additional when it comes to the plumbing this organization plays an important focus and some creativity on the part industry. In so doing we will be role in molding the codes and of our board of directors and staff, we enriching a “brand identity” for PMI. standards to which industry can expand PMI’s sphere of influence Another example of how PMI is manufacturers (both members and non- out to other members of the industry’s now reaching out beyond its traditional members) build their products…and in distribution chain. borders is our initiative to use the grant a real sense, the products that Two other areas are being studied we have received through NAM consumers use every day in their by the board, along these lines of (National Association of homes and other buildings. broadening our reach. We are looking Manufacturers) to promote to young In another arena…as an into the continued expansion of the people, careers within the plumbing organization PMI has demonstrated its training/education initiative to target manufacturing industry. ability, on numerous occasions, to head groups outside the ranks of And, while these are interesting off legislation and/or regulatory manufacturers. First, we are looking efforts, you have the PMI Board’s actions that were not in the best into the possibility of linking certain of assurance that pursuit of these interest of our industry…or our our educational forums to certification downstream customers. Through swift programs and “continuing educational Continued on page 8

In This Issue. . . Two High Notes and a Farewell ...... 9 Turning Our Vision of PMI Into Reality ...... 2 Meet Chicago Faucet’s Suzanne Shaw ...... 10 A New Push for Water Efficiency By U.S. EPA . . .3 2004 PMI Dues Investment Information . . . . . 11 PMI Continues to Shape the Future ...... 4-7 Welcome Amerikam ...... 11 PMI Signs Memorandum of Understanding . . . . .8 A Fond Farewell to Lori Smelser ...... 12 Shaping The Future. . .Turning Our Vision of PMI Into Reality! by: Barbara C. Higgens, PMI Executive Director

Upon returning Unless you live in a remote part of ways to make improvements for from the PMI the world or have no electricity, ourselves as well as our children. As 2003 Fall computers do affect your life. our parents could not imagine our Meeting, I Computers assist the monitoring and dreams, neither can we foresee the re-read the controlling of most planes, dreams of our children. As we educate following automobiles, and traffic lights. them, we must inspire them to use their editorial by Computers facilitate magazines, creativity and imagination for this is Clint Medlock, newspapers, radios and televisions in truly where our future lies.”* President, almost every aspect. Even telephone PMI is realizing many of its Stafford Cutting calls would be impossible without dreams, as we pursue new ways to Dies, Indian computers. The article you are shape the future. We have added six Barb Higgens Trails, N.C. currently reading was written, checked new members since the 2003 Spring which appeared in The Cutting Edge, a and corrected with a computer. Meeting. We enjoyed record newsletter serving the die cutting and Computers give us the ability to use attendance at the fall meeting. We die making industry. (Hey! Gimme a another person’s intelligence at welcomed four prospective members break! As much as I live for them, I moment’s notice. Before computers, I to the meeting as guests with the hope know there is more to life than reading never would have attempted to write that they will join our ranks. We have plumbing industry magazines!) an article for a magazine. Only with a list of 12 more prospects who have Being a fan of the space race, the aid of this computer’s spell expressed an interest in attending the Albert Einstein and the power of checking, grammar checking and other spring meeting in April. We have imagination, this article really hit tools can I write acceptably. I now added a variety of forums and home. It is particularly relevant in have the confidence needed to express seminars to our ever-expanding list of view of our fall meeting theme of my thoughts knowing the content of the member benefits. Together with “Shaping the Future,” the spectacular article is the key to its response. financial assistance from the National presentation by NASA spokesperson, Albert Einstein was quoted as Association of Manufacturers (NAM), Jack Bacon, and our visions for PMI saying, “Imagination is more we will begin planting the seeds to and the industry. I wish I had written important than knowledge.” As in the encourage a new generation to this article. I didn’t. (But I’ll be “back Apollo space mission, it’s not the consider careers in our industry. We to you” at the end of it.) Here it goes: power of the computer that sent us to have a new, official relationship with “On a warm Sunday evening in July the moon, it was man’s imagination. the U.S. Department of Commerce to 1969, like millions of others, I watched It’s not so much about the computer promote fair trade throughout the Neil Armstrong make his famous small having become a part of our life, as world. We have a solid base of step for man. Until recently, I never much as it is human imagination about dedicated, supportive members. We realized the magnitude of information the computer’s capabilities that affect are financially sound and in the unique needed to complete this mission. us. As our needs change, our (and enviable) position of offering a Rocket into space at approximately imagination must heighten. As dues adjustment downward to 18,000 miles per hour, take a 60 hour computers become more sophisticated members not already participating in flight, then orbit the moon 13 times, and our imagination becomes more the dues abatement program. launch the Eagle, descend from 50,000 vivid, change will accelerate. As we move forward, we will feet into the Sea of Tranquility, take a So often we take our current maintain the focus on our existing short walk, blast off again, be hurled capabilities, imagine enhancements priorities as well as continue to look toward Earth at 24,000 miles an hour and then use these ideas to improve for ways to expand PMI’s areas of and splash in the ocean at a our products. I doubt Alexander influence, building on our strong predetermined location. Sound like a Graham Bell had the foresight to foundation, making improvements as walk in the park? I don’t think so. envision cellular pocket phones. needed to ensure PMI’s role as the What amazes me most about their Though Orville and Wilbur may never definitive “Voice of the Industry.” mission was that the computers used to have thought about flying to the moon, Life is good. calculate this mass of information had a small piece of fabric along with a Thank you, PMI members and less capacity than my current home piece of the propeller from their plane friends, for your ongoing dedication to computer. This leads me to the was placed on the moon to signify PMI. Happy holidays to you and conclusion that computer capabilities their contribution. yours! are limited by the intelligence and As we inherit our parent’s dreams, imagination of the programmers. we accept their capabilities, yet seek *Reprinted by permission

Page 2 PMI News November/December 2003 A New Push For Water Efficiency By U.S. EPA by:David Viola, PMI Technical Director

In response to increasing pressure the Energy Policy Act of 1992. EPA has from environmental groups and water Is a national program the answer? scheduled three utilities, the U.S. Environmental The creation of a voluntary program additional Protection Agency (EPA) has initiated that establishes uniform national water stakeholder a series of stakeholder meetings to efficiency standards has potential meetings. The explore the development and drawbacks and benefits. dates, locations implementation of a national program The potential drawbacks include: and meeting David Viola seeking to increase water efficiency. If creating a program that doesn’t result focuses are a national program is created, it would in significant water savings; shown in the table below. attempt to increase water efficiency by; compromises performance; adversely The upshot is many or all of the • motivating manufacturers to effects plumbing system performance; potential pitfalls can be avoided with produce more water efficient or reduces public health and safety. At appropriate stakeholder involvement. products, the October 9 meeting, Kathleen If done properly, a single national • educating consumers of water Hogan, director of Climate Protection program could serve to consolidate and saving benefits, Partnerships Division, who handles the harmonize the increasing number of • and encouraging distributors, ENERGY STAR® Program at EPA conflicting state and local water retailers, and water utilities to expressed some words of caution to conservation regulations and promote these products. those interested in pursuing a similar initiatives. This could also include Canada as well, since the Canadian At the first stakeholder meeting program for water efficient products. Water and Wastewater Association has held on October 9, 2003, in She reminded attendees that the ® indicated their desire to coordinate Washington, D.C., water conservation ENERGY STAR is a brand name, with a similar program being pursued advocates suggested that a national and that consumers having a bad north of the border. water efficiency program be modeled experience with a brand are not likely after the ENERGY STAR® Program. to consider it in future purchases. She Another potential benefit is that the In fact, many advocates were also indicated that a national water voluntary standards generated from promoting “Water Star” as the efficiency scheme like the ENERGY this process could be used to update ® suggested name for the program. If a STAR Program is not likely to federal regulations and preserve the program were modeled after ENERGY produce the desired results for Energy Policy Act. Much like what has STAR®, it would likely result in the products which: happened with other product categories delineation of water efficiency • require proper installation to obtain covered by the Energy Policy Act, we performance levels for products and a energy benefit, can expect increasing pressure to product marking scheme that provide • are installed in commercial establish new regulations or further consumers with a means of identifying applications because end users are enhancements for plumbing products. the various performance levels. not directly involved in the Creating new water efficiency standards through a transparent process With nearly 36 states covering over purchase decision, and with manufacturers’ involvement and 90 percent of population expecting to • are already covered by fairly sufficient lead time prevents many of experience water shortages over the aggressive national standards. the problems that were created when next 10 years, there is little doubt that To avoid some of the initial pitfalls, the Energy Policy Act was initially the importance of making efficient and EPA staff has indicated that they will implemented. beneficial use of scarce water not include residential plumbing Without furthering the debate about resources will remain a top priority for products covered by the Energy Policy water utilities, environmental groups Act in the initial phases of program. and regulators. In fact, many state and Continued on page 8 local utilities are in the process or have already established product Stakeholder Meetings Scheduled By EPA performance provisions through Location Date Focus consumer incentive and rebate Austin, TX Jan. 15, 2003 State, regional and local utility and programs. Additionally, several state government roles and local regulatory bodies are Phoenix, AZ Mid–Feb., 2003 Urban landscape irrigation products considering or have already established mandatory provisions for plumbing Seattle, WA Mid–Mar., 2003 Commercial, institutional and products not specifically covered under residential products

PMI News November/December 2003 Page 3 PMI Continues to Shape the Future At Its 2003 Fall Meeting

by:Kelly Anderson, PMI Technical Services Manager

With the buzz of politics in the air, Effectiveness.” Messrs. Cullotta and From an action-packed meeting the nation’s capitol and the Capital Sims stated that although the sales came many action items for PMI to Hilton in the backdrop, PMI returned force is often the sole revenue- tackle and explore. Below are just a to Washington, D.C., to hold its 2003 generating department within a few of those items. Fall Meeting October 26-29 with three company, its functions and processes Universal Conformity Assessment days full of activities, issues and have remained relatively unaltered by Issue Committee will process and presentations. the process engineering techniques that distribute the responses from the NSF have improved other company Led by PMI President Ralph 61 certifiers answering the questions operations over the past decade. They Herrbach, who is also president of that a PMI task group developed. The outlined the steps a company’s sales Cifial USA, 89 members, membership is reminded to provide force can use to spur profitable growth spouses/companions, guests, speakers, feedback to the draft survey that by optimizing the value delivered from press and staff made this year’s manufacturers can use to evaluate and key customer segments. They also meeting one of the largest in PMI’s compare critical performance areas of identified ways to enhance the history. The theme, “Shaping the NSF 61 certification agencies in order efficiency and effectiveness of the Future,” symbolized how PMI is to compile and distribute the data at entire sales operation, including continuing to shape the plumbing the PMI 2004 Spring Meeting. industry. Once again, PMI had a very whether technology tools make sense. successful meeting; see the listing of Monday afternoon’s Fair Trade Flushing Devices/Fixture Joint action items arising from the specific Issue Committee meeting featured Product Group will continue to committee and general meetings. presentations from two governmental submit code changes to the model codes changing the reference of ASME Sunday, October 26 organizations. Laura Koss, senior A112.19.6 to ASME A112.19.2 for The PMI Board of Directors met in attorney, from the Federal Trade Commission discussed “Made in the hydraulic performance, and a task the afternoon to discuss, among other group was created to develop language things, PMI’s 2004 annual operating USA” labeling issues, and Monika Brenner, the Director of the for the International Plumbing Code budget. Following the board meeting regarding bathtub access panels. was the welcome reception and dinner, International Agreements Staff and Showerhead/Hand Shower, where PMI President Herrbach Chief of the Special Classification and Faucet and Shower/Tub-Shower introduced new members, first-time Marking Branch in the Office of Fittings Joint Product Group will meeting attendees and guests, and Regulations and Rulings, U.S. revise the name of the product group previewed the days to come. Customs and Border Protection, relayed “Country of Origin” labeling and scopes as well as continue to Monday, October 27 issues. monitor the revision process of NSF Following breakfast, the day began Following a hosted reception and 177, Shower Filtration Systems. with the Universal “dinner on your PMI will distribute to the Conformity own,” PMI members membership when the information on Assessment Issue and guests had the the European Union’s attempt to Committee, and the option to reconvene develop regulations that would limit morning continued at the hotel for a late- the amount of nickel that a plated with product groups night reception and faucet could contribute to drinking meetings: Flushing the opportunity to water is available. Devices/Fixture and meet Heather Couri, Showerhead/Hand Member Services Standing chief of staff for Joe Shower, Faucet and Committee will investigate through Barton (R-TX) and Shower/Tub-Shower F.W. Dodge the development of a Jerry Couri, staff Fittings. statistical report on market share for Heather and Jerry Couri were director for the House plumbing products. After lunch, the Subcommittee of available at the late night reception The membership is encouraged to Member Services to meet PMI members. Environment and notify PMI and the certification ad hoc Standing Committee Hazardous Materials. meeting featured a presentation by members of any further suggestions on Tuesday, October 28 Carl Cullotta and Scott Sims of how to tie PMI’s training into other Frank Lynn and Associates entitled, Presentations continued Tuesday organizations’ certification process and “Maximizing Your Sales Force through the states. Continued on page 5

Page 4 PMI News November/December 2003 PMI Continues to Shape the Future At Its 2003 Fall Meeting

Continued from page 4 morning with industry expert Ken attendees enjoyed a reception and Fair Trade Issue Committee will Schoonover of KMS Associates, Inc. dinner along with a special keynote continue to monitor the Foreign Sales who provided insight on accessibility speaker, comedian Jim Morris. Mr. Corporations (FSC)/Extraterritorial issues. PMI attendees were then Morris is a political impressionist/ Income (ETI) Rules and World Trade treated to a very different kind of satirist that has become famous as a Organization issues. presentation in keeping with the theme living political cartoon. Mr. Morris of “Shaping the Future.” Dr. Jack effectively captured all of the attitude, Government Affairs Standing Bacon, systems integration engineer and befuddled essence of our nation’s Committee will continue to monitor with NASA, discussed the inside leaders. the activity in Texas with regard to legislation for water conservation technology of the International Space Wednesday, October 29 Station. Dr. Bacon works at Johnson measures, hexavalent chromium and After breakfast, the meeting ended water intrusion and mold issues. Space Center in Houston as the lead with an historic event for PMI...the Trade Show Consolidation Ad systems integrator of numerous signing of a Memorandum of Hoc Committee will work with Russian and American spacecraft, Understanding (MOU) between PMI NKBA to poll PMI members about including the Zarya — the first and the Department of Commerce the three proposals presented by element and bridge module of the new (DOC). Linda Conlin from DOC and NKBA and continue to promote trade International Space Station, launched PMI Executive Director Barbara show consolidation. November 20, 1998. He said his job Higgens together signed the MOU to requires that “we take EVERYTHING continue the close working relationship Technical Standing Committee that mankind has learned about on issues that impact the plumbing will solicit participation to develop a engineering, science, politics, language industry (see pictures on page 8). task group to identify potential and finances, and make it all work in a Be sure to mark your calendar for strategies and next steps and make a man-made world 200 miles above our PMI’s 2004 Spring Meeting being recommendation to the membership heads. It’s like needing to use held April 25-28 at the Doubletree regarding EPA’s water efficient everything in an encyclopedia.” His Sonoma Wine Country in California. product labeling program. enthusiasm was infectious. Plans are also underway for The General Membership Tuesday afternoon’s Government PMI’s 2004 Fall Meeting on approved the proposed 2004 Affairs meeting included an update September 19-22 at the Capital operating budget for PMI and elected from Charlie Schnabel, PMI’s Hilton in Washington, D.C. a new slate of officers. lobbyist in Texas, along with a presentation by Greg Kats from Capital E on the LEED program. The Announcing the New 2004 PMI Executive Trade Show Consolidation Committee Committee and Board of Directors heard an informative presentation by National Kitchen and Bath Association Congratulations to the following individuals for being elected to the 2004 PMI (NKBA) 2003 President Les Petrie Executive Committee and Board of Directors! and NKBA Chief Executive Officer Executive Committee: Larry Spangler on future plans for President: Jim Westdorp; Kohler Co. K/BIS®. First Vice President: John Lauer; Sloan Valve Company The Technical Committee, again, Second Vice President: Al Walcutt; MPC Plastics, Inc. had a full plate of issues relating to codes, standards and the EPA water Treasurer: Claude Theisen; T&S Brass & Bronze Works efficient labeling program. The Immediate Past President: Ralph Herrbach; Cifial USA meetings concluded with the General New Directors: Membership Meeting where members Pete DeMarco; American Standard, Inc. voted on the nominations for the 2004 Tom White; Haws Corporation board of directors and the 2004 annual operating budget. PMI President Returning Directors: Ralph Herrbach and PMI Executive Ray Fisher Jr.; Fisher Manufacturing Company Director Barbara Higgens both gave Ken Martin; Delta Faucet Company remarks regarding the state of the Lee Mercer; Moen Incorporated Institute and the PMI “wins”. Tim Mullally; KWC Faucets Inc. After an information packed day,

PMI News November/December 2003 Page 5 2003 Fall Meeting October 26-29 Washington, D.C.

Comedian Jim Morris (left) Mark Alan of The Chicago Faucet entertains the group with With many years in PMI, Company joins the Sloan Valve Company crew: his political impressions Pete Jahrling, Jim Allen and John Watson. Bob Dildine from Electro after Tuesday's dinner. Chemical Finishing tells member prospect Klaus Fromme from Bradley Corporation the PMI benefits. PMI staffer Kelly Anderson takes a moment to mingle with board member Tim Mullally of KWC Faucets Inc. Ken Martin and Sally Remedios both of Delta Faucet Company (left) First time attendee Lars compare notes at the Christensen from Hansgrohe, Inc. end of the day. and David Lingafelter of Moen Incorporated unwind after a full day of meetings.

(left) Bruce Martin of Intertech Corp. and John Lauer of Sloan Valve Company share a laugh at Ron Grabski of Gerber Plumbing Fixtures (left) Fred and Jeanne Luedke socialize Sunday's reception. between magic tricks, chats with Keith Kramer and with the other members before dinner. Richard O’Reagan (right) of The Chicago Faucet Company. (Bruce Martin is in the background.)

NASA's Dr. Jack Bacon gave an enthusiastic presentation on the international (left) Vice President Bill Axline from Space Fluidmaster, Inc.; learns the benefits of Station. PMI membership from Gary Israelson and Larry Himmelblau from Elkay PMI President Ralph Herrbach Manufacturing Co. gives his "state of the association" address.

Page 6 PMI News November/December 2003 PMI Technical Director Dave Viola and Texas Lobbyist Marie-Helene Pernin of NEOPERL, Inc; Jay Charlie Schnabel discuss the Troger, Falcon Waterfree Technologies and latest issues in Texas. David Miscimarra of JMI USA (right) also join (left) Michael Martinez, Price the ranks of first time meeting attendees. Pfister joins PMI Executive (left) Incoming Director Barb Higgens and Lee 2004 PMI First time attendee Mercer, Moen Incorporated in president Jim Michael Trenham of conversation during the meeting. Westdorp of Speakman Company Kohler Company (left) learns about gains insight PMI meetings from from current PMI Casey Hayes of president Ralph Haws Corporation. Herrbach of Cifial USA.

Ed and Maria Pilatowicz, Price Pfister, enjoy Tuesday's reception.

Speakman Company's President Rod Ward (left) Todd Teter, Moen Incorporated (left) and speaks with Ron Hilger of JMI USA. (Symmons' Tim and Arlene Mullally, Fred Fraisee, NEOPERL, Inc. who are both KWC Facuets Inc. relax first time attendees share their thoughts Bill Tracey is in the background.) during the reception after a about the day. long day of meetings.

Ken Schoonover presented the latest developments in accessibility.

John Kabbes spoke to the Laura Koss from the group at lunch Federal Trade on demand Commission addresses forecasting. the group on Made in the USA labeling Newly elected Treasurer issues. Claude Theisen from T&S Brass & Bronze Works presented the proposed Monika Brenner from the Customs 2004 operating budget. Department presents to the attendees Country of Origin labeling issues.

PMI News November/December 2003 Page 7 PMI is Reaching Beyond Its “Traditional” Borders Continued from page 1 objectives will not, in any way, detract new members and well-attended organization is indeed making a from compliance-related work and the educational forums, we will generate difference and more effectively living current list of focus issues, which are additional revenue that will allow us, up to its role as “the voice of the the heart and soul of our organization! over time, to restructure and reduce industry.” PMI will be in good hands Also, I ask you all to keep in mind that dues levels for all members. The under Jim’s leadership. Of course, I through such expansion of reach and result is that we would all “get more am not going too far! I will continue activity initiatives, there are two levels for less.” on the Board of Directors as of benefits for member As I complete my term as PMI Immediate Past President and will companies…both in the category of president and pass the torch to Kohler remain a very active PMI member. “added value.” First, member Company’s Jim Westdorp, our Thank you all for your continued companies benefit through president in 2004, I must say how support. See you in Sonoma for the participation, and secondly…if our pleased I am with the progress PMI 2004 Spring Meeting! efforts do, in fact, pay off in terms of has made in recent years. The

PMI Signs Memorandum of Understanding with DOC

PMI President Ralph Herrbach (far left) observes the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding which formalizes the working relationship between PMI and the Department of Commerce. PMI Executive Director Barbara Higgens (middle) and Linda Conlin, Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Trade Development signed the agreement at the PMI meeting October 29, 2003.

The PMI Board of Directors, PMI staff poses with Ms. Conlin after PMI members and DOC staff the signing. (l-r) Kelly Anderson, witnessed this historic event. Maria Bazan, Linda Conlin, Dave Viola, (l-r) DOC staff Gary Stanley; Barbara Higgens and Lori Smelser. Ralph Herrbach, Cifial USA; Jim Galvin, Symmons Industries, Inc.; Linda Conlin; Claude Theisen, T&S Brass & Bronze Works; Barbara Higgens; Lee Mercer, Moen Incorporated; Pete DeMarco, The PMI office will be American Standard, Inc.; closed Thursday, John Lauer, Sloan Valve Company and DOC staff November 27 and Friday, Patrick MacAuley. November 28 to observe the Thanksgiving holiday, and will be closed A New Push For Water Efficiency By EPA Wednesday, December 24 Continued from page 3 through Thursday, January 1 to observe the pros and cons, the focus of the plumbing manufacturers’ views are Christmas/New Year proposed program will undoubtedly shared. As always, PMI will remain in have an impact on plumbing products constant communication with PMI holiday. We wish a great and the companies that manufacture members on program developments holiday season to you and them. As such, it will be critical for and present positions to EPA that are in yours! the plumbing industry to remain the best interest of the industry and the engaged with EPA and water consumer. conservation advocates to ensure that

Page 8 PMI News November/December 2003 AView from the Hill — Two High Notes and A Farewell Note by:Fred Eames, Balch and Bingham, LLP

After two and a half years, my time Based on good data our members efficiency as PMI’s federal lobbyist is coming to provided, we were able to persuade the dollars for an end. I am happy to have had the NMFTA to reject this proposal for federal housing opportunity to get to know you, and I faucets, leaving the current system in facilities to be am honored to have represented you in place. Unfortunately, we did not have used for Washington. This is my last PMI News data sufficient to convince them to showerheads column, and I am happy to have good reject the proposal for fixtures and and faucets that news to report. accessories, so the new rate standards meet the EPACT On November 3, PMI won a will apply to those products. It is federal water significant victory before the National important to note that the NMFTA sets flow restrictions. Motor Freight Traffic Association model rates. Actual shipping rates are Because those Fred Eames (NMFTA), convincing the association set in negotiations between truckers fittings use less to reject a proposal that and shippers. The model water, less energy is needed to pump could have resulted in rates can heavily influence the water and to produce hot water. shipping rate increases for the negotiations. This will create an opportunity for faucets of up to 15 percent. Companies generally PMI to work with the Department of Housing and Urban Development to The NMFTA proposed to keep their shipping rates identify facilities that can save water completely overhaul the private. We do not know and energy by buying and installing way rates are set for what you are charged now new fittings. plumbing products, or what rate bargain you including fixtures, fittings might strike in the future, so In Washington, fat ladies have a and faucets. The existing it is not possible for us to way of getting things stuck in their rate standards, which had estimate the amount throats, but I expect the energy bill to been in place for nearly 70 years, companies will save. However, we did be approved before the end of the year, called for rates to be set based on hear from one faucet manufacturer that if not before Thanksgiving. whether the item was a fixture, fitting had the proposal gone through, it could Thank you for the privilege to work or faucet, and what it was made of. have cost the company up to 15 for PMI these past two years and for The NMFTA proposal was to shift to a percent in increased shipping costs. your friendship. The association is system where the rate would be The second high note is about to fortunate to have a dedicated, determined based on the number of be struck. The long-debated federal knowledgeable staff and capable pounds per cubic foot a shipment energy bill is at this writing about to be member leadership. I believe the weighed. Also, the NMFTA proposal passed. Only a few House-Senate organization is growing stronger and eliminated the rate classification under disagreements remain to be resolved. providing better value to its members. which many plumbing goods were The fat lady isn’t singing, but she is I also believe federal affairs is an arena being shipped. Under the NMFTA inhaling and her lips are parted. in which, over the long term, it will proposal, those goods would mostly be The bill contains provisions benefit PMI members to become even charged a more expensive rate. proposed by PMI to allow energy more active.

PMI Members Extend Their Thanks to PMI and Fred Eames For Defeating the NMFTA Proposal (received via e-mail)

“Great job! Thanks” Todd Talbot, president, Brass Craft Manufacturing Company “Barb, congratulations to you and the team. The savings to members should be significant — part of the value of PMI.” Jim Westdorp, sector president – global faucets, Kohler Co. “Congratulations Barbara! This is great news!!” Ila Lewis, chairman, Gerber Plumbing Fixtures LLC “Congratulations!” David A. Slobuszewski, manager, customer service/sales, NEOPERL, Inc. “The decision of the NMFTA to keep plumbing items at their current classification is a significant victory for Symmons. Had the decision been to go to a density item, Symmons freight costs would have been impacted. Congratulations! Not many industries win when up against NMFTA!! I would assume that the PMI group is a large association and it appears well worth any membership fees!!” Marcia V.Aubin, Traffic Logistics, Inc. (freight consultant for Symmons Industries)

PMI News November/December 2003 Page 9 Meet Chicago Faucet’s Suzanne Shaw — PMI’s New Committee Chair by:Kelly Anderson, PMI Technical Services Manager Born in Indianapolis and raised in in Business Boonville, Ind., which has a population Administration from of 9,000, Suzanne Shaw is currently the Amos Tuck School the director of marketing for The of Business at Chicago Faucet Company in Des Dartmouth College. Plaines, Ill. She has been in her Suzanne says her position for three years and made her noisy, bossy cat keeps debut as co-chair of the Member her company at home Services Standing Committee at the when she is not recent 2003 Fall Meeting. enjoying sailing, Before coming to The Chicago hiking, skiing, or Faucet Company, Suzanne worked for learning to play Verizon Telecommunications for 14 classical guitar. years specializing in marketing and In addition to her Suzanne Shaw with Member Services Committee co-chair new product development. As parents, Suzanne Bill Tracey of Symmons Industries. Suzanne becomes more knowledgeable professes Ruth Bader in the plumbing industry she says she Ginsburg as her hero. The Honorable When Suzanne is not driving has “come to appreciate what PMI Ruth Bader Ginsburg was nominated around, her favorite way to unwind is brings to the table: industry by President Clinton as Associate by sitting on the roof of her home after knowledge, up-to-date information on Justice of the Supreme Court of the work, reading the paper and drinking a critical issues, industry support and United States in June 1993 and took glass of wine. Of course she realizes guidance regarding positions on the oath of office on August 10, 1993. that Chicagoland weather dictates the important industry issues. The Suzanne says her parents are the most feasibility of this. If it’s “November Chicago Faucet Company is a strong influential people in her life. They through May the rooftop is a little too competitor in the plumbing industry taught her “to work hard, to be kind cool to be an option. I guess I am and PMI provides us with up-to-date and respectful to others, to love and tense seven months of the year.” Not critical information on industry issues. enjoy music and nature, and to read the to fret, Suzanne has inside interests It also provides a wonderful neutral comic section every day so I don’t too, such as reading and listening to forum to interact with our counterparts forget to laugh.” One can see how her music to help her ease her tension for in the industry.” She says her “secrets” parents have influenced her life; those cold winter months. Her favorite to success include “hard work, a Suzanne’s outlook on life is “if you book is “To Kill a Mockingbird” by flexible attitude and a sense of can’t find something to laugh about, Harper Lee, while Miles Davis, humor!” Along the same lines, you’re taking life way too seriously!” Lucinda Williams and Robert Cray are Suzanne’s management philosophy is What Suzanne does take seriously is topping her charts of current music to “hire good people and provide them recycling. She says she is an avid preferences. However, if all these with the strategy and goals of the conservationist who recycles ways to unwind is not enough, company and then let them do their everything (including TVs, clothing, Suzanne can enjoy herself in Hanover, job.” etc.) “I don’t consistently use public N.H. or Santa Fe, N.M. — her favorite Suzanne is a graduate of DePauw transportation for my commute, but my vacation spots! University with a Bachelor of Arts next car will be an electric hybrid.” We look forward to Suzanne’s Degree, from Purdue University she Speaking of cars, Suzanne’s personal participation in PMI and on the has a Bachelor of Science Degree in pet peeve is SUVs that try to pretend Member Services Committee. Industrial Engineering, and a Masters to be a “compact car” in a parking lot. Welcome, Suzanne! BACK BY POPULAR DEMAND! PMI CODES AND STANDARDS WORKSHOP January 27–28, 2004 Schaumburg, Illinois Free to PMI members; nonmembers may attend for a fee. Call PMI at (847) 884-9764 for more information. THE WORKSHOP IS LIMITED TO 50 REGISTRANTS — SIGN UP EARLY!!

Page 10 PMI News November/December 2003 Good News: Equity Market Shows Signs of Improvement

by:Wayne E. Silverman, Manning Silverman & Co.

The equity markets have just stay under control and interest rates retirement and their education needs. completed their second consecutive remain at historically low The key to proper positive quarter. Six months ago on levels. It is strongly retirement and education March 31, 2003, The Dow Jones recommended that planning and savings is to Industrial Average was below 800 and outstanding term debt begin the planning with an has closed above 9000 July through (including mortgages) that adequate number of years September. For the last six months the has not been refinanced available before the need. rewards for being in equities have within the past year, be This will allow for outpaced other investment alternatives. given consideration to funding to take place over The long-term trend of the market taking advantage of these many years and allow for continues to teach us that over the long low interest rates. maximum effect of the run, the risk of being out of the equity While the equity markets have benefits of compounding. markets is greater than being in the taken some downturns, the basic life Wayne Silverman, CPA equity markets. cycle needs of retirement and Manning Silverman & Co. The economy continues to show education have not been altered. It is 175 Olde Half Day Road Suite 290 signs of positive growth. Gross as important as ever that each Lincolnshire, IL 60069 Domestic Product is up as is individual take a serious look at where Phone: 847-459-8850 productivity. Inflation continues to they are on the path of savings towards Fax: 847-537-8954

Look For 2004 PMI Dues Investment Information Coming Your Way Soon!

by: Maria Bazan, PMI Association Manager As the end of 2003 approaches, included when computing your annual Welcome Amerikam! watch your mailbox for information on dues level. You may not pay only on a PMI dues investments for calendar particular product line. Please We are pleased to announce a year 2004. The detailed packet of complete the “Verification of Products new member company! At the PMI information will be mailed to Included in PMI Dues 2003 Fall Meeting, the board of you in early January 2004. Investment” form to indicate directors approved Amerikam’s Please note the new mailing the products manufactured application for membership. address listed in the by your company and that Established in 1934 and located materials. encompass the range of in Grand Rapids, Mich., Amerikam We are pleased to products covered. In designs, develops and manufactures announce that the dues addition to verifying your valves, industrial fittings, precision levels will remain dues level, this information machined components and unchanged again for 2004! The is important to staff in keeping you assembled products. informed of activities affecting your Board has held the dues at no increase A more in depth profile of product lines. for the sixth consecutive year. We Amerikam will be featured in the continue to stretch the value of your Dues declaration forms and January/February 2004 issue of dues dollar by increasing the levels of payments (full, half, or first month) are PMI News. services we provide and adding due February 2, 2004. Late dues Please extend a warm PMI programs for the PMI membership, payers will be assessed penalties. welcome to President Stephanie along with staff continuing to monitor If you have any questions regarding Leonardos, Chief Engineer administrative costs and pursuing cost- PMI’s dues collection procedures, Michael Regelbrugge, Manager of cutting measures whenever possible at please contact Executive Director Administration Services Carol PMI headquarters. Barbara Higgens at PMI headquarters, Shepard and the entire Amerikam As a reminder, sales of all plumbing (847) 884-9764. crew! We look forward to seeing products you manufacture which are Thank you for your continued our newest members at the 2004 covered within PMI’s scope must be participation and support! Spring Meeting in Sonoma.

PMI News November/December 2003 Page 11 A Fond Farewell to PMI Member Services Kelly Anderson Manager Lori Smelser Earns Promotion

Here’s wishing a fond farewell to Lori Smelser, member Congratulations to services manager, who has left PMI after five years of Kelly Anderson who outstanding service. Lori joined the “new” PMI in 1999 has been promoted to (after having served the organization as part of the CM technical services Services staff) and returned to PMI on a part time basis manager. Kelly joined last year after welcoming her son, Jason, into the world on PMI in 2000 having previously worked with October 13, 2002. Kelly Anderson Dave Viola at BOCA. She is expecting another bundle of joy this spring and Her dedicated, efficient and cheerful has resigned her position to prepare for the new arrival! service to PMI are obvious to anyone Congratulations and best wishes to Lori and her husband who has seen her in action. Kelly’s Lori Smelser Jay as they continue to build their family. Lori and her promotion is well-deserved! exemplary attitude and work ethic will be greatly missed at PMI. We suspect, however, that she will be equally successful and no doubt highly rewarded in her new role! Good luck Lori! 2003 PMI LEADERSHIP Executive Committee Ralph Herrbach, Cifial USA Speakman Company Dedicates New Facility President Jim Westdorp, Kohler Company Having outgrown the Wilmington, ribbon on the new Speakman facility. First Vice President Del., facility after being there for 96 In addition to celebrating his 92nd John Lauer, Sloan Valve Company years, Speakman Company held a birthday on the very day of the Second Vice President dedication ceremony Monday, dedication, Mr. Stoddard was recently Al Walcutt, MPC Plastics, Inc. November 3 at their brand new facility recognized in the “Guinness Book of Treasurer situated in historic New Castle, Del. World Records” for having worked Todd Talbot, Brass Craft Manufacturing Co. PMI Executive Director Barbara longer with the same company — 75 Immediate Past President Higgens attended the ceremony which years — than anyone else, ever, Directors at Large: included presentations by area anywhere! Mr. Stoddard is currently Ray Fisher, Jr., Fisher Manufacturing Co. dignitaries, a group photograph of all on Speakman’s Board of Directors, Jim Galvin, Symmons Industries, Inc. employees and a plant tour. In his and the company has named one of its Ken Martin, Delta Faucet Company opening remarks, Bill Speakman cited conference rooms in his honor. Lee Mercer, Moen Incorporated Ms. Higgens as having traveled the Speakman Company joined PMI in Tim Mullally, KWC Faucets Inc. furthest to attend the ceremony and 1978 and rejoined this year after a one Claude Theisen, T&S Brass & Bronze Works expressed his appreciation. year hiatus. PMI STAFF: Following the welcoming We wish them the very best in their Administrative ceremonies, 75-year Speakman new home! Barbara C. Higgens Maria Bazan employee Tom Stoddard cut the Executive Director Association Manager Technical David W. Viola Kelly D. Anderson Technical Director Technical Services Manager Consultants Mike Sennett Fred Eames Legal Counsel Lobbyist Bell Boyd & Lloyd Balch and Bingham (312) 807-4243 (202) 347-6000 [email protected] [email protected] Plumbing Manufacturers Institute Headquarters: Shown at the ribbon cutting....left to right: Thom Harvey, Developer-Twin Spans 1340 Remington Road, Suite A, Business Park; David Bailey, Treasurer-Speakman Company; Will Denham, retired Schaumburg, IL 60173 Vice President and currently on Board of Directors; Rod Ward, President; Tom Stoddard; Bill Speakman, CEO; Congressman Michael Castle; Lt. Governor John Phone: 847-884-9PMI (9764) Carney; John Klingmeyer, Mayor of New Castle; Jim Denham, retired Vice President Fax: 847-884-9775 of our former Wholesale Division, currently on Board of Directors; Harry G. Haskell, www.pmihome.org former Delaware Congressman and Speakman Compay’s first Personnel Director.

Page 12 PMI News November/December 2003