Tennessee Marble

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Volume 19, Issue 226 The Beacon of The sTone IndusTry may 2013 Tennessee Marble Company Celebrating 20 Years of Operation and Excellence HAT Tennessee Marble by Joel Davis Company sells is not Quarry Photos by Joel Davis; 1910 Harris County just stone – it’s perma- Courthouse photo by Nash Baker Photography nence and beauty in a Additional Photos by Tennessee Marble Company disposable world. Top: Recognized with a 2013 Pinnacle Award for Excellence, the restoration of the Harris Based in Friendsville, Tennessee, the County courthouse was an immense undertak- 20-year-old company brings the legacy of ing, in which Tennessee Marble cut and fab- the historical East Tennessee marble industry ricated bookmatched panels of the supplied Georgia Pearl Grey marble, working with firmly into present and capitalizes on the Camarata Masonry Systems, Ltd. of Houston, timeless elements of the stone. Texas on the restoration. “We offer North America the opportunity to use domestic stone,” said the company’s Below: Tower Oaks, Maryland completed in 2007, features flooring and walls of Endsley President Monica J. Gawet. “We are like Pink marble, in a polished finish. hundreds of fabricators who work everyday to create art that functions. Our product is Inset: Monica Gawet and foreman Steve Kerr quarried, fabricated and installed primarily discuss the blocks being produced at the re- here in the U.S. and often, the product is part opened Granox quarry. of a historic building.” The modern Knox County Metropolitan region, which includes Blount County, was the site of a marble industry that thrived through the late 19th and early 20th Centuries. This is a source of pride for Gawet. “It’s a good feeling to know that our marble is part of history and that as long as 100 years ago, Tennessee marble was used in flooring wainscot, stairs, and exteriors, and that an owner or architect thought the stone worthy of being kept or restored, or even added to,” she said. “In this disposable world, this is something that can create a sense of accomplishment more than 100 years ago led the company in and satisfaction. To know that other families a new direction. like mine, whether they were quarry owners “We extract from four Tennessee quarries or not, labored to take raw stone from the now,” she said. “These quarries are extreme- ground and turn it into something that is ly challenging. There are large open seams inherent in the deposits along with natural

Photo Courtesy Tennessee Marble fractures and color ranges that make recovery In ThIs Issue beautiful and durable is a satisfying thing for Her family’s involvement in the marble extremely low.” In our cover feature Slippery Rock writer Joel me personally.” industry dates back to 1919, but it had never Still, the quarry operations are only part Davis interviews Monica Gawet, President of Gawet has a family history in the stone operated any quarries. This was new territory. of the advantages that Tennessee Marble Tennessee Marble Company, celebrating their industry, but she only became involved “Honestly, when the acquisition was made Company offers. “The success we found is in 20th anniversary this year. in 1993 when she helmed the acquisition in 1993, the intent was to be mainly a fabri- being vertically integrated,” Gawet said. In Rock Stars Among Us, Tom McNall presents of a defunct stone production facility in cator,” Gawet said. “We had no experience “Trying to be a block supplier from these Scott Lardner’s story. Friendsville. “My dad was looking to expand operating any quarries, but a large project at quarries would be impossible, in my opin- We conclude the MIA Pinnacle Awards with the business to see what opportunities were Grand Central Terminal in New York City ion. The vertical integration is what makes Part 2, and include the Migliore Award for sig- out there. This was a beautiful, almost brand required us to quarry new blocks for the East it possible in terms of bringing product to nificant contribution to the Stone Industry. new facility unlike anything in the country. I Grand Stair. So in 1996, we started quarry market. One of our taglines is ‘From quarry to …Enjoy our insightful industry advice and saw it could be a great opportunity and a great operations exclusively in the lower Dark Rose crate.’ We can control the whole process from product reviews written by fabricators, in- challenge. I did not intend to get involved in layer. The rest is history.” extracting the stone to working with clients.” stallers and industry professionals to help the family business. It was something that Quarrying marble to match the stone used in The formula has proven to be successful. increase your bottom line. happened. It was fate.” the construction of the Grand Central Terminal Continued on page 2

Shop www.braxton-bragg.com for Stone & Tile industry products Visit www.slipperyrockgazette.net for more Stone & Tile industry news | 2 may 2013 slIppery rock GazeTTe ennessee arble o TCelebrating 20 Years of M Operation and Excellence C .

Far left: Completed in 2010, interior and exterior projects for the Ritz Carlton, Charlotte, N.C. feature flooring stone using Light Rose Tennessee marble laid in a diamond matched pat- tern, with a Cedar border. Exterior uses a Veined Cedar with a honed finish.

Above: Benetti Wire saw in operation at the historic Granox quarry, producing blocks of Quaker Gray.

Below: There are numerous regional and federal structures graced with Tennessee marble, from local municipal build- ings in Knox and Blount Counties, to national landmarks. These graded blocks are destined for Washington, D.C. Ritz Carton Photos Courtesy Tennessee Marble (2)

Joel Davis (3)

Continued from page 1 includes more than 100,000 square feet of man- “I really have to thank the Marble Institute the 1800 F Street modernization project for ufacturing space. Its Endsley location provides of American and my building stone industry the U.S. Government Accountability Office, “We are celebrating our 20th year and I am very another 20,000. Between the two plants, the colleagues,” Gawet said. “I value their devotion which involves providing Quaker Gray marble, proud to reach this milestone,” Gawet said. “In company fields three gang saws, three Standish to the industry and what they do. They have with contract installation by Rugo Stone. The so many ways, I can’t believe it has been 20 stationary belt saws, two polishing lines, four always provided support and encouragement to company is also supplying pink marble for the years. We’re fortunate to have several people GMM saws, and a Breton tile line. me. It’s an incredible and unique industry we’re exterior and interior of the Center for Strategic who have been with us all 20 years and their “We produce tile from several domestic all involved in.” International Studies. skills and talents made this anniversary possible. quarries here and collaborate with other block Over the years, TMC has contributed to many The demand hasn’t stopped at the borders of We employ 40 people: eight staff in the quarries, producers like Georgia Marble for fabrica- projects of national and regional significance: it the continent, Gawet said. “The farthest away six in administration and 21 in the plant. We’ve tion,” Gawet said. “Many of projects each year provided 25,000 square feet of pink marble for Tennessee marble (Quaker Grey) has gone made two acquisitions in the past 10 years; one will involve tile or paving production as well the U.S. Capitol Visitor Center; stone for the is Asia. And not just a little – close to 15,000 was the Champlain black quarry in Vermont and as dimensional stone. So when we have a East Grand; stone for the Knoxville Convention square feet over several years.” the most recent, five years ago, was the purchase multi-faceted project involving cut to size and Center; pink diamond book-matched flooring Tennessee Marble Company also supports of the assets of Tennessee Valley Marble, which flooring, the client can receive all these products for the Ritz Carlton; and 15,000 square feet of projects local to the East Tennessee region. were comprised of the Endsley quarry and a from one producer.” Georgia Pearl marble for the 1910 Courthouse In Knoxville, it contributed flooring to the small plant.” Recently, Tennessee Marble Company project. University of Tennessee Law Library, and its Gawet praises her employees. “I’ve got peo- received its second Marble Institute of America Gawet also points out a few unique, small stone was used in the university’s Howard H. ple who have been with me for 20 years,” she Pinnacle Award of Excellence. The project was projects to which her company has contributed: Baker Jr. Center for Public Policy. In Blount said. “I feel I have a strong and multi-faceted known as 1910 Harris County Courthouse. “It’s a block of stone supplied to an artist for New County, where the company is based, it provid- staff. Everybody here is important for what they a Beau Arts building in Houston, Texas, that Mexico’s Po’Pay statue at Statuary Hall in the ed marble for the Maryville Municipal Building contribute – 90% of our staff are local people was completely transformed on the interior,” U.S. Capitol and the marble base, sculpted by interior flooring and the grand stairway at the from Blount and Knox Counties. Training is an Gawet said. “Painstaking efforts were made to Rugo Stone, for the Ronald Reagan statue also Clayton Center for Performing Arts at Maryville important part of what we do.” restore wood, glass, plaster and marble elements in the Capitol. College. Gawet did not grow up in the stone in the building. TMC supplied over 15,000 SF Currently, Tennessee Marble Company “It’s wonderful to use local stone,” Gawet industry despite her family’s busi- of Georgia Pearl to the project and the highlight is involved in several projects across North said. “We have to thank all the predecessors ness. “I was never involved in my fami- of the work was in the rotunda of the building. America. In Ontario, Canada, the company is here in Tennessee for starting quarrying in East ly’s business in Vermont,” she admitted. “By carefully selecting blocks that had to match working with contractor York Marble, Tile & Tennessee and for local architects and the public Still, there were benefits. “When we started in existing panels there, TMC fabricated diamond Terrazzo in restoring the Toronto Union Station, who continue to take pride in the fact that we 1993, the fact that my father and family had matched panels up 35 foot tall columns. We not which uses a few North American stones. continue to quarry and supply Tennessee pink been in business since 1919 certainly provided only diamond matched the four panels, but we “The train station is being revitalized so the throughout the country.” credibility,” she said. “It’s tough being new in matched it all up the columns as well. The judg- project is being done in phases, and it ranges this industry. This is a detailed, multi-faceted es’ comments were very complimentary and we from new bathroom partitions to floor, wainscot Please visit www.tnmarble.com for more field – what you don’t know can really hurt you.” give credit, of course, to the installer, Camarata and base,” she said. information on their history, and a list of past Tennessee Marble Company’s main plant Masonry, for their fine on-site work. In Washington, D.C., TMC is involved in and current projects.

Shop www.braxton-bragg.com for Stone & Tile industry products Visit www.slipperyrockgazette.net for more Stone & Tile industry news | slIppery rock GazeTTe may 2013 3 Rock Stars Among Us Scott Lardner, President of Rocky Mountain Stone you’ve been involved in Tom McNall the MIA (Marble Institute Special Contributor of America) over the last 10+ years, chances are that you’ve heard of Scott Lardner and/or Rocky Mountain Stone. If you haven’t, I will tell you that you are missing out!

His family and company has been active in the stone industry since the 1950s and contrib- utes greatly to helping set the standards of the industry and mentor new ones through various undertakings with the MIA. I first met Scott in Baltimore at the 2002 StonExpo. What always impressed me about Scott from that day was how he could always remain calm, cool and businesslike, no matter what the situation. Later on, while serving on the board of directors of the MIA with Scott, who served as that association’s Treasurer, Secretary and then Vice President before becom- Above: Management Team (l to r) Jeff Lesslie, Scott Lardner, Steve Bickel, Danny Erdman. Pictures courtesy Albuquerque Magazine for a profile featuring local family-owned businesses. ing President, I was further inspired with his rational thinking amid so many varying and Below: The full Rocky Mountain Stone staff. At first, they were primarily a building stone and outspoken opinions. landscape material supplier. Always one to look to the future, the company jumped on favorable circumstances in 1978 to purchase a travertine quarry and further gain the travertine rights to several other area properties. Heading West and have monthly board meetings. Brother Dave Scott’s father Vince started as a stone mason sold out in 2007 to pursue personal goals, Tim In 1983, Rocky Mountain Stone took a giant leap forward and invested big money in buying Italian in upstate New York and moved out west to succumbed to cancer in 2010. And the youngest equipment in order to open a travertine processing plant under the name New Mexico Travertine take part in the building of the United States sibling, John, sold out in 2011. Today, Scott and in Belen, NM. It took two short years from start to finish to get up and running. There they pro- duced tile, slab, and aggregate. Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs, CO Jim Lardner run the company together. in 1958. When completed, inspired by the At New Mexico State University, Scott earned Academy, he finished his pilot training that he his Production Operations Management degree, had begun in New York by moving to nearby giving him an excellent springboard into his Albuquerque, New Mexico. future career. He claims that he learned more There, Vince took notice of an opportunity in the two years in the business after schooling when a local stone company closed in 1962 and than in the previous 15 years. he opened Rocky Mountain Stone in 1963. At Scott has been happily married for 25 years first, they were primarily a building stone and to Christine and has three children; Danielle, landscape material supplier. Always one to look Caitline, and Sean. Always active in the com- to the future, the company jumped on favorable munity, Scott is a Rotary member and serves circumstances in 1978 to purchase a travertine as a trustee for the Catholic Foundation in New quarry and further gain the travertine rights to Mexico. several other area properties. He has also recently joined a business group In 1983, Rocky Mountain Stone took a giant known as the “Amigos of New Mexico” that leap forward and invested big money in buying includes over 150 business owners throughout Italian equipment in order to open a travertine the state, who serve as ambassadors for New processing plant under the name New Mexico Mexico during annual trips across the country. Travertine in Belen, NM. It took two short years Around the year 2000, Scott was getting from start to finish to get up and running. There involved more with the MIA and his name they produced tile, slab, and aggregate. was mentioned several times around the board meetings where he was eventually nominated to Getting to Know Scott Lardner Moving on Up serve and subsequently elected. What are you reading? Scott’s ascension to the throne of the New Part of his success has come from his enjoy- “Blood and Thunder” by Hampton Sides, about Kit Carson and the conquest of the West. Mexico stone world didn’t take place overnight. ment in talking to the many different people who What are you listening to on your radio/iPod? When Scott was a child of 8, his father taught serve the various facets of this industry. Scott Acoustic music, Tommy Emmanuel, blues music. him to run a forklift and would even outfit the knows that the majority of people are always Do you have a favorite vacation location? brake peddles with wooden blocks so he could enchanted with rock in all its forms and feels Florence, Italy. Italy in general. palletize stone as a youngster. As he grew, he blessed to be able to have a hand in completing Do you have a dream vacation location? performed many tasks around the company jobs in stone and growing his business. New Zealand, to go fly fishing and then lay on a beach. from driving trucks, fabricating, cutting blocks, Scott lists two major mentors in his journey. Favorite movie? templating and administration. He has been Jack Seiders from AGM is one who has become The Sting, The Shawshank Redemption. President of RMS since 1983 and has over 40 a close friend and has always been a positive years experience considering he doesn’t look influence in his life. Where do you go to think? To escape? much older. Mountain biking, or fly-fishing on the San Juan River – no phone, no Internet! Up until 2007, five brothers would run RMS Continued on page 45

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Shop www.braxton-bragg.com for Stone & Tile industry products Visit www.slipperyrockgazette.net for more Stone & Tile industry news | slIppery rock GazeTTe may 2013 5

® HIS month we turn our editorial spotlight on three individuals, who, with their companies and employees, have made a difference in the stone industry: SLIPPERY ROCK GAZETTE Monica Gawet, of Tennessee Marble Company, Scott Lardner, of Rocky The Beacon of the Stone Industry Mountain Stone, and Paul Vigna, recipient of the 2012 MIA Migliore Award. In our expanded edition this month we also present tips on maintenance and Online Edition www.slipperyrockgazette.net restoration after the install, and note design trends for kitchen and bath installs in 2013. We For advertising rates, contact Larry Hood at 865-293-0231, always appreciate hearing from our readers – thanks for your comments on our special features. [email protected], or visit www.slipperyrockgazette.net for advertising As always, send your letters to [email protected]. We especially want your information and to view and download back issues of the Slippery Rock Gazette®. nominations for our Rock Stars Among Us column. – L.H. Rich Hassert ...... Publisher Tennessee Marble Company: Celebrating 20 Years of Operation and Excellence, by Joel Davis ... 1, 2 Larry M. Hood ...... Editor/Design Director Rock Stars Among Us: Scott Lardner, President of Rocky Mountain Stone, by Tom McNall .... 3, 45 G. William Brown ...... Graphic Designer Mother’s Day Quote ...... 5 Steve Bussell ...... Technical Advisor Arley Wholesale Opens North Carolina Distribution Center ...... 6 Aaron Crowley ...... Stone Industry Consultant From the Publisher’s Pen ...... 6 Joel Davis ...... Feature Contributor Sports Quote of the Month ...... 6 Is the Brushed Finish Trend Still Hot? by Peter J. Marcucci ...... 7 Frederick M. Hueston ...... Stone Care Consultant The Stone Detective, by Frederick M. Hueston, PhD ...... 9 Carmen Ghia ...... Foreign Desk M Is For the Many Things ...... 9 Rufus B. Leakin ...... Guru of Folklore Why, Oh, Why, Ohio High ...... 9 Peter J. Marcucci ...... Special Contributor Paul Vigna Receives 2012 Migliore Award for Lifetime Achievement ...... 10 Tom McNall ...... Special Contributor and Floor Restoration Consultant The Morning Huddle, by Aaron J. Crowley ...... 11 Ida Mae Nowes ...... Nubbins Correspondent Groves Inc. Announces Miter Up 200 Lamination Clamp ...... 12 Laptop Letter ...... 12 Anne Tenna ...... Human Resources Dept. Marble Institute of America 2012 Pinnacle Award Winners, Part 2 ...... 14, 15, 38, 39, 42 Richard Pierce Thomas ...... Leadership and Small Business Consultant Mother’s Day Memories, by Sam Venable ...... 17 Sam Venable ...... Special Contributor Surfaces Rewards Two Top Floor Covering Distributors at 2013 Show ...... 18 Stacy B. Williams ...... Special Contributor What is the Real Cost of Edging on a Job? ...... 18 Boomer Winfrey ...... Varmint County Correspondent To Tell the Tooth ...... 18 Please email address updates to [email protected]. Guilty? I’m Not Guilty! ...... 18 Please note that subscription requests, classified ad submission form and our Focus on the Why Before the How, by Richard Pierce Thomas ...... 19 2013 Advertising Guidelines are available online at www.slipperyrockgazette.net Maintenance and Preservation After the Sale, by Peter J. Marcucci ...... 20, 23 Punishment to Fit the Crime ...... 23 Do You Smell Garlic? ...... 23 Old School Mom Jokes ...... 26 Florim Introduces “Urban Wood” a Stunning Wood-Look Porcelain Tile Range ...... 26 The Slippery Rock Classifieds ...... 30 Jill Archambeau Awarded with 2012 MIA Natural Stone Scholarship ...... 31 A Girl Just Like Mom ...... 31 The Polished Perspective – Good Housekeeping, by Tom McNall ...... 33 Florim USA Introduces “The Galaxy Tile Collection” ...... 34 Elegant Cloister Garden Completed at Vero Beach Community Church ...... 34 It’s Always Funny in P–A ...... 34 iStone App Now Available for the iPhone ...... 36 NKBA Releases Updated Editions of Its Bath Planning and Kitchen Planning Books ...... 37 New Stone Pro SR2 Vacuum Support Rail System Offers Better Suction, Flexibility ...... 37 Gnome Sweet Gnome ...... 40 New Crayola Glass Tile Collection Features 99% Recycled, Colorful Material ...... 40 Putting It All Into Words, by Ida Mae Nowes ...... 41 Not Your Average Restore Job ...... 44 Husqvarna GM 3000 Grout and Concrete Hole Filler Now at Braxton-Bragg ...... 44 Noble Company Announces New Thin-Bed Drain ...... 44 Loyalty to the Max ...... 45 NKBA Reveals the Top Industry Trends for 2013 ...... 46 Mother’s Day Quote “A mother’s happiness is like a beacon, lighting up the future but reflected also on the past in the guise of fond memories.” Honore de Balzac (1799-1850) French novelist and playwright

Shop www.braxton-bragg.com for Stone & Tile industry products Visit www.slipperyrockgazette.net for more Stone & Tile industry news | 6 may 2013 slIppery rock GazeTTe Arley Wholesale Opens From the Publisher’s Pen North Carolina Distribution Facility How to Buy a Diamond Ring RUE confession time – I love advertisements. I skim the news, RLEY Wholesale, Inc., a fam- but study the ads. My cable TV company has provided me with ily-owned, third generation a neat gadget that lets me fast forward through programs so wholesale supplier of tile I can watch more commercials. Instead of original artwork or and stone headquartered in velvet Elvis paintings, I have framed Ivory Soap advertisement reproduc- Scranton, PA, has opened up a full-ser- tions hanging on my walls. vice distribution/warehousing facility in Greensboro, North Carolina. The firm In the days leading up to Valentine’s Day we were bombarded with advertisements about began delivery from that location using diamond rings. By my count, about 80% of the ads were what is called benefit ads, i.e. ads that its own fleet of trucks on March 25th. make a cause and effect promise. Usually the ad shows a man purchasing a diamond ring and and have it delivered either the next day or the getting kissed by a pretty girl, with a hint there is more to follow. Sometimes there is even a tag day after (depending on their specific deliv- According to Scott Levy, Arley Executive line such as “Every kiss begins with …”. ery day and branch in which the material is Vice President of Operations, “We will be About 20% of the ads were feature-focused. A very serious sounding narrator talks earnestly inventoried). Levy added, “We will start with delivering in stages, in concentric circles from about such features as cut, clarity and carats. one time per week delivery; this will increase Greensboro out. We want to make sure we are The obvious problem with the benefit ad is that usually it’s kissing that leads to the purchase of as the business demands. Our customers can doing everything correctly. Frankly, we are the diamond ring, seldom is buying the diamond the primary causal agent. If it were, my guess is now enjoy the benefits of purchasing all of giving our customers what they asked for, as for the stores would be jammed. Probably not one man in ten-thousand can really judge cut, clarity their needs through one source. This cuts down years, those in that region wanted us to have a and carats, so feature ads are also a problem. their freight costs, hassle of trying to coordinate local presence. While driving with my finger on the radio scan button, I did hear one very interesting ad. A shipments and gives them the opportunity to “Historically, they love doing business with man’s voice simply said, “I know it is very difficult to buy a diamond ring without the nagging see inventory online, order online and manage Arley, but up until now they couldn’t buy all of feeling that you have been taken advantage of by the jeweler.” The voice went on to explain that their account 24/7!” their sundry items along with the tile because there are many variables that determine the value of diamonds, but that special training and spe- The new facility will be supervised by long- of freight on common carriers. They also cial tools were required to make a good decision. He then said that he thought that the best thing time Arley employees, Tim Ruscoe, manager, wanted to make sure that we were long-term to do if you wanted to buy a diamond ring, was to buy it from someone whom you trust. The and Pat Carter, assistant manager. players in the marketplace. Opening a regional clinching argument was that you could trust him, because he guaranteed the value and would be For more information, please contact Arley distribution center gives them what they have happy to buy the ring back at full price if you could find a better value for money anywhere else. Wholesale, Inc. 700 North South Road, requested.” That ad really got me thinking. Here at Braxton-Bragg, we buy millions of dollars of diamond Scranton, PA 18504, call 800-233-4107, or go Once this location is fully operational, cus- tooling for re-sale. To me, all diamond tooling looks pretty much alike. We can and do test online at www.arleywholesale.com. tomers will be able to place an order by 3:00PM products and have products analyzed by experts, but we only buy from people who we trust and have known for a long time. It is not blind trust, we do verify, but it is a relationship based on trust, nevertheless. It seems to me that a stone fabricator has the same problem as a guy looking for a diamond ring – How do I avoid being had? I think that the fellow on the radio really had it right; you need to buy from people who you trust and you should demand a written guarantee. As we try to figure out advertisements to convince you to buy from Braxton-Bragg, we point to the fact that we list country of origin on our website for all of our products. We also post our prices upfront without doing anything cute like saying, “call for pricing,” and we have an unconditional, money-back, 30-day, written guarantee on everything that we sell. So, to sum it up, our tooling won’t do anything for your sex life. We don’t expect you to share our excitement over the quality of our diamonds, the diamond concentration, the types matrix bonds, or the finish that results, but we do offer a written, unconditional, money-back, 30-day guarantee because we know that we can.

Have a good read,

Email responses to: [email protected] Rich Hassert

Sports Quote of the Month “My dream was to play football for the Oakland Raiders. But my mother thought I would get hurt playing football, so she chose baseball for me. I guess moms do know best.” Rickey Henderson (b. 1958) Called the Man of Steal during his 24-year American League career. Inducted into the National Baseball Hall of Fame in 2009.

Shop www.braxton-bragg.com for Stone & Tile industry products Visit www.slipperyrockgazette.net for more Stone & Tile industry news | slIppery rock GazeTTe may 2013 7 Is the Brushed Finish Trend Still Hot? Peter J. Marcucci Special Contributor

the context of com- of the project before recommending the brushed merce, Encarta Dictionary finish to a customer. defines “optional extra” We also discuss budget and performance of as “an additional item or the brushed finish with our clients as part of attachment, not part of the standard the criteria when making the final decision. On package, that can be purchased separate- average the brushed finish adds about 5-10% to ly, e.g. when buying a car.” the cost of the job, and it is critical to adequately seal marble, limestone and travertine that have When purchasing a new car, especially that been brushed. long-awaited dream car, how many of us also Personally, my favorite spot for a brushed purchased available options while signing on the finish is the wet bar, because friends and family dotted line? I, like most buyers, explore all the often congregate around the bar and can really options before making an expensive purchase, take the time to appreciate the nuances of the usually thinking, “If I’m going to do this, I’m stone and follow the patterns and enjoy the natu- going all the way!” And that desire for some- ral variation of the material. thing different and the appetite for options is no I am always happy to find the clients who will different from the desire that many of our clients be a perfect match for the brushed finish. It is experience, whose long-awaited dream kitchen here to stay. is finally taking shape . Fact: Today’s fabricators and their clients have more material choices than Jersey.” In addition, brushing is considered an material make it a commanding focal point. Clearly, if you already have a radial arm pol- ever before. Granites, marbles and quartzites rich upgrade and usually costs a little more for clients This is a beautiful compliment when paired with isher or a Fab King work center, you are golden with movement and colors continue to be intro- interested in something different. highly polished natural or man-made quartz at this point, and if you’re willing to invest a few duced from around the world, while innovations Brushing is done with specialized abrasive countertops. bucks to jump into this very lucrative option, a like Glassos®, Silestone® and Ceasarstone® con- brushes in various grits. The process removes There seems to be a trend to brush the material call to your Braxton-Bragg representative will tinue to set the bar in the never ending evolution softer parts of the stone creating a textured, more deeply. The deeper brushing does increase get you focused! of man-made products. weathered appearance accentuating the materi- the risk of breakage, so great care and testing of And be it polished surface or honed, all look al’s natural color. The result is a smooth textured material should be paramount. Peter J. Marcucci has over 25 years of fabrica- great when edged to perfection. But why do so surface that adds value to a project. We all learned the lessons of over use with the tion experience in the stone industry. Send your many shops stop there and limit their available Every stone will respond differently to the “Miami Vice” teal and mauve palette. Therefore, comments to our Contacts page on SRG website, choices to clients, when there is the unique brushing depending on its hardness. The surface at European Marble, we try to look at the entirety www.slipperyrockgazette.net. and easily achieved brushed finish option? preparation combined with the workers’ tech- Countertops or furniture elements fully or par- niques and type of brushes used will yield a wide tially highlighted with brushed affects will abso- range of results. The brush finish may then be lutely add sizzle to a client’s home or business as sealed with an impregnator to retain the stone’s well as add sizzle your bottom line. tonality or with an enhancer to intensify the color In search of an in-depth perspective of the of the material. brushed finish trend, I sourced two long-time The option of offering a brushed finish opens industry experts to speak matter-of-factly on this other markets and value options for procedure, subject. Both have raised the level of the art by fabricators and consumers. Although it is often taking aesthetics to the next level, and both have specified for countertops, it may be used on just selflessly given their valuable time to offer their about any surface. This includes wall panels, wisdom to us: Bryan Mitnick, Owner, CCS Stone stair treads, flooring, fireplaces, backsplashes Inc., Moonachie, New Jersey, and Emir Joanides, and pavers. For flooring, it creates a slip resistant Vice President and Designer, European Marble surface more than honing and is much easier to Company Inc., Sarasota, Florida. clean than thermal or sandblasted finishes. Bryan Mitnick: People want to use natural As clients continue to look for unique surfaces stone and are often looking for a finish other than and finishes, brushing will remain high on the polished. Honing is an option, but brushing with option list. We believe the consumer will be cre- its smooth undulating feel tends to be the more ating more demand for this specialized process. popular choice. Brushing, also referred to as Emir Joanides: I think that the brushed finish “leather finish,” was made possible by the advent is here to stay. At European Marble we make a of modern abrasive technology. concerted effort to match custom finishes with Of course, it depends on the stone being the clients’ design style and architectural needs. used, but brushing creates a finish appealing to The brushed finish allows us to add an element the touch. Various brushing techniques may be of texture that does not overwhelm the final look applied to most natural and engineered stones. of the project. It is much subtler than a chiseled There are some fabrication shops like ours that edge, so it can be incorporated into more delicate can produce a finish using our own machines, but and refined installations. others depend on distributors that stock the finish When combined with a large-scale mitered and selected colors from their suppliers overseas. edge it can enhance a contemporary space. For This gives us the flexibility to offer this unique a natural “cottage look,” we would simply brush finish on virtually any stone that is available in the edge with a square or quarter round shape. slab and tile. It increases the options to customers We have been especially successful using and creates work for our own employees in the the brushed finish at vertical areas. When lit shop who are proud to say, “It was made in New properly, the undulations at the surface of the

Shop www.braxton-bragg.com for Stone & Tile industry products Visit www.slipperyrockgazette.net for more Stone & Tile industry news | 8 may 2013 slIppery rock GazeTTe They laughed when I said I could cut a sink hole in 4 minutes. But when I did it in less than 3…

here’s one in every crowd: the joker… Chopper’s design also allows the operator T the wise guy who always is ready and to quickly change the blade depth for step willing to throw down a challenge. I’d just cutting, while holding the blade at the per- put out a claim that with one tool I could fect angle. cut out a sink hole in a 3cm slab of granite Superior Design in less than 4 minutes. Means Easy Clean-Up Of course, I’d never done it in a trade- The Chopper cuts on the line and leaves show booth in the middle of a convention a vertical edge on the finished side of center like the one I was standing in at the the bowl hole, saving you clean-up time. moment. This tool will step-cut the corners of your pulling a fast one. As I cut, they looked rectangular sink hole, leaving very little And That’s When it Happened… at me–then back to the timekeeper– then material to remove with a clean-up drum, A man worked his way to the front and back to me. saving you time and money. And because hollered, “I’ll bet you 10 bucks you can’t The laughter stopped cold as I made it cuts so clean, it practically eliminates do it right now!” The crowd laughed as the first pass around the hole look effort- blowouts. every head turned to see how I would react. less. The second was even easier. The Well, I’m not one to back down from a tool seemed to be running itself…slicing Portable and challenge, so I said, “I’ll take that bet.” through the granite like a knife through Proudly Made in the USA The crowd laughed again. After all, a demo warm butter. The Sinkmate Chopper is powered by a booth at StonExpo wasn’t exactly an ideal As I made my final pass, the granite fell Makita® motor and runs on 110 power, so spot for me to prove my point. out, leaving a clean hole ready for pol- it’s designed to be easy-to-use in the shop I decided to make the most of the situa- ishing. The crowd instantly turned to the or on the jobsite. Best of all, every unit is tion. With a little showmanship, I cracked timekeeper waiting for the final verdict… made right here in the USA. my knuckles, rolled my shoulders and It seemed fast but was it really under 4 loosened my neck. I then carefully adjusted minutes? No, it was actually less than 3 To find out how to get The Chopper my template and turned a few knobs on my minutes–2:50, to be exact! working for you, call Braxton-Bragg trusty tool for effect. at 1-800-575-4401. Ask about the easy “He’s stalling,” called a voice from the Introducing the financing that’s available for the complete rear. Another yelled back, “Stalling– he Sinkmate Chopper Sinkmate System. can’t even get started!” Again the crowd The Chopper TS6 uses a 6-inch con- laughed. tour blade. The Chopper’s Patent Pending design has guides that follow the edge of P.S.- The above is a true story that Then I Fired Up “The Chopper” a template. These guides are adjustable took place during StonExpo 2012. I nodded to the timekeeper and I was off. allowing you to change the size of the Every eye was on me to make sure I wasn’t sinkhole using the same template. The

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Shop www.braxton-bragg.com for Edgemate Stone Tools Visit www.slipperyrockgazette.net for more Stone & Tile industry news | slIppery rock GazeTTe may 2013 9 The Stone Detective Frederick M. Hueston, PhD The Case of the Stained Limestone Wall Stone Care Consultant

simply love the south and this might have guessed, the stains where nothing was one of those days that Well, long story short… none of them more than the white wash being removed. The reinforced it. I was driving to worked. Not even a little. Now I was white wash was applied so diluted to the wall that Tupelo, Mississippi to take a starting to sweat. I have never had a you could still see the grain of the stone. In other look at a problem with a limestone wall. poultice fail on me, at least not without words, it didn’t look painted. some results. I stepped back and started I called the manager and spent the next half Of course, I’m sure you all know what Tupelo looking at the wall trying to figure out hour explaining that the stains were not stains. I is famous for? That’s right–it’s the birthplace of what the heck was going on. told him he had two choices: remove the white Elvis Presley. (Thank you very much!) The drive wash on the entire wall or re-whitewash the dark was beautiful and the weather was perfect. The next thing he said totally floored me...no spots. Another case solved, or should I say anoth- I arrived at the office building downtown and pun intended. He looked me straight in the eye er lesson learned. Thank you very much. The parked the ole Woody as far away from the and asked, “Why are you taking all the white Stone Detective has left the building. building as possible. Why, you might ask? Well, wash off the wall?” I figured it was the only way this old man was I looked at him and said, “White wash?” The Stone Detective is a fictional character going to get some exercise, so it’s a practice I He told me that when they were installing this created by Fred Hueston, written to be enter- started a few weeks ago. limestone, the architect didn’t like the dark color taining and educational. He has written over 33 The building was about three stories high of the limestone and that he wanted a lighter books on stone and tile installations, fabrication but I was puzzled due to the fact that there was limestone. There was no time to send the dark and restoration and also serves as an expert for no stone on the exterior. The manager of the limestone back, so they decided to white wash many legal cases across the world. You can send building told me they had Indiana limestone the dark to make it light. any email comments to him at fhueston@stone- three stories high with some staining problems Well, step on my blue suede shoes and call me forensics.com that wouldn’t go away. I scratched my head and I listened carefully and was really puzzled as a hound dog! This is one for the books. As you thought maybe this was his office and we were he mentioned chemicals from acids to alkaline to going to look at another building. a number of solvents, as well as pressure wash- I walked into the lobby and my question was ing. This was going to be a hard case to solve, I M Is For the Many Things... instantly answered. The Indiana limestone was thought, but after all, I am the Stone Detective. If in the interior. The lobby was open all the way I can’t figure it out no one can. ISS Jones, an elementary up to the third floor and there was a giant wall I said, “I will have to perform some tests and school teacher, had just with large panels of Indiana limestone. will be right back.” given her second-grade I walked over to the wall to take a closer look He told me he would be in his office and to call students a science lesson. and was startled when a security guard tapped him when I was done. Miss Jones said, “My name begins with the me on the arm and asked, “What are you doing?” I went back out to my truck and grabbed my She had explained about magnets, and letter ‘M’ and I pick up things. What am I?” I told him who I was and who I wanted to see. test kit, some rags, and a spray bottle full of showed how they would pick up nails and A little boy in the front row proudly said, He asked me to join him at the security desk water. Now, when it comes to unknown stains other bits of iron. Now it was question time. “You’re a mother!” because I needed to get a visitor’s badge and he there is a detailed procedure that you must follow would also need to call the building manager. so you don’t set the stain. I took out my arsenal of For those of you who work in office buildings, chemicals and started my testing. you know this is common practice, so I just said, To my surprise, nothing I did was even touch- Why, Oh, Why, Ohio High “OK,” and followed him over to the desk. ing the stain. So, I decided to apply several Ohio high school has As I was signing in, he was on the phone con- poultices and allow them to sit overnight and canceled its prom to tacting the building manager. He smiled, gave see which one worked. I called the manager and punish students for a me my badge and told me he would be down told him what I did and that I would be back the prank: a massive water in a jiffy. next day. Never Too Old to Graduate balloon fight at lunch. I went back over to the wall to look for the Well, that night I went out on the town, found A 106-year-old central Ohio woman who stains I was told were there. The first thing I a local pub and ended up getting quite a lesson completed classes but didn’t graduate in a dis- The Cincinnati Enquirer reports the prin- noticed was a series of stains on the wall about about the history of Tupelo. The locals told me pute over a book, has received her high school cipal of Withrow High School in Cincinnati diploma at last. three feet from the floor. There were about 50 it was the upholstered furniture capital of the says students used social media last month to The News Journal in Mansfield reported the of them running the length of the wall. There world. I also got to drive by the birth house of plan the prank. Mount Vernon superintendent presented Reba didn’t seem to be any stains higher than those Elvis. Principal Sharon Johnson says staff found Williams with the diploma at her apartment in three feet or so. The next morning I got up, grabbed some quick out and tried to prevent it. She made announce- Columbus. She even got to wear a traditional The stains were dark and I suspected that they breakfast, and headed right over to the building to ments the day of the planned prank, warning graduation cap brought by the retired Mount were caused by hand oil from people leaning up remove the poultices. I was kind of worried but students the prom would be canceled if they Vernon English teacher who urged the school against the wall. I would have to go back out to excited at the same time due to the fact that one had the balloon fight. School officials were board to award the diploma. my truck to get my stain test kit. of my secret poultices should do the job. concerned over safety. Williams has said she completed high school Just as I was about to leave the building, the Well, long story short… none of them worked. in Mount Vernon but was denied her diplo- But about 150 to 175 students went ahead building manager came into the lobby. He was a Not even a little. Now I was starting to sweat. I ma because she refused to read a final book with it. Johnson says there was water every- tall gentleman, clean-shaven and kind of looked have never had a poultice fail on me, at least not assigned by a teacher. She’d read the book where and some students were upset and like the former pro basketball star Larry Bird. without some results. I stepped back and started once and didn’t want to read it again. slipping and falling. For a minute I thought maybe he was. After all, looking at the wall trying to figure out what the Williams says she hopes current students Johnson says she had received only a few Larry Bird is retired. heck was going on. realize that learning is important and that they phone calls from upset parents. He introduced himself and asked me to come Just as I was about to go back out to the truck probably shouldn’t follow her example. back over to the wall. He said, “The stains have for some more poultice pouches, this old man Source: The Cincinnati Enquirer, Source: News Journal, been here for a long time and we have tried every came walking out of a door and stopped in front http://www.enquirer.com http://www.mansfieldnewsjournal.com chemical we could think of to remove them, and of me. He looked at all the chemicals I had on the ––––––––––––––––– ––––––––––––––––– nothing seems to touch them.” floor and looked at me, and then the wall.

Shop www.braxton-bragg.com for Stone & Tile industry products Visit www.slipperyrockgazette.net for more Stone & Tile industry news | 10 may 2013 slIppery rock GazeTTe Paul Vigna Receives 2012 MIA Migliore Award for Lifetime Achievement

AUL Vigna, who spent over 50 years in the natural Impressed with his work ethic, stone industry, has been management sent him to night school awarded the 2012 Migliore to learn blueprint reading, and then Award for Lifetime Achievement by the promoted him to drafting. Marble Institute of America (MIA). After spending many years working in Vigna accepted the award at the annual MIA Trenton, Atlantic City and New York, Paul Awards Luncheon held during StonExpo/ operated his own firm, Reynolds Tile, Terrazzo Marmomacc Americas 2013 in Las Vegas, NV. and Marble in Trenton for 14 years. In 1992, Paul has a very unique work history, first start- he joined Artisan Tile and Marble Company ing in the field, and later moving into the office of New Jersey, which today is one of the larg- setting as an estimator, and eventually becoming est commercial stone contractors in the state. the President of the Stone Division for Artisan Shortly after he joined the company, he was Tile & Marble. promoted to president of the firm’s Artisan Stone His career started in 1963 when Paul was Division. looking for work and his uncle told him there Artisan Tile and Marble is well-known in the Paul Vigna, who spent over 50 years in the natural stone industry, accepted the award at the annual was a temporary job available at Everlasting New York City and northern New Jersey market MIA Awards Luncheon held during StonExpo/Marmomacc Americas 2013 in Las Vegas, NV. Terrazzo, Tile and Marble in Trenton, New for expert installations of complex stone and tile Jersey. He took the job. “I started as a helper in projects, as evidenced by the 35 Golden Trowel the field for a union contractor, became a setter awards that Artisan Tile & Marble has received and eventually worked my way into the office,” over the years. Vigna remembers. “Paul is one of those unique, rare individuals Impressed with his work ethic, management who have knowledge beyond compare,” said sent him to night school to learn blueprint John Sekora, chairman of Artisan Tile and reading, and then promoted him to drafting. Marble. “He is a true craftsman and artisan. He To further his education, he took architectural knows his field. He works with general contrac- courses at Mercer County Community College tors, architects, and designers. His knowledge is and Princeton University. so vast that everyone wants a little part of him.

He is responsible for many of the Golden Trowel friends for decades. Paul said, “I find myself Awards that we have received. His name is well being very humbled with this award.” known in the industry.” “I’ve known two superstars in the stone indus- Along with having an outstanding career in try in my life,” says John Sekora. “One of them the working part of the industry, Vigna has also is Mr. Migliore and the other is Paul Vigna. He given back to the stone industry after being has given so much, not only to the industry and elected to the MIA Board of Directors in 2000. to Artisan Tile and Marble, but as a director and He served as treasurer 2001 and moved through president of MIA and has become a worldwide the ranks to become President of the Marble factor in the industry.” Institute of America in 2004. He is still one of Brett Rugo, who nominated Paul for this the MIA’s greatest supporters. He also believes prestigious award added, “Paul was a very close in the next generation and has spent countless friend of Vince Migliore, and I am sure Vince hours mentoring newcomers to the industry. For would be pleased to see Paul’s name as a recipi- several years, Paul has offered his services as a ent of his award. Paul’s commitment to his fam- consultant to the stone industry and general pub- ily, community, and professional life all speak to lic sharing his expertise and recommendations the well rounded life he has led.” for stone related projects. Paul and his wife, Judy, have been married for Winning the Migliore Award is bitter sweet 51 years. They have three children, Christopher, for Paul Vigna Jr. He and Vince Migliore, the Michael and Debbie and enjoy spending as much man for whom the MIA Migliore Award for time as possible with their six grandchildren. Lifetime Achievement was named, were close

Shop www.braxton-bragg.com for Stone & Tile industry products Visit www.slipperyrockgazette.net for more Stone & Tile industry news | slIppery rock GazeTTe may 2013 11 Aaron J. Crowley The Morning Huddle Stone Industry Consultant

ISTORY and current events single day of the year creates a predictability suggests that there are some We begin every morning now with that is very healthy: the installers know they groups of people who will a 15 minute huddle that covers the have a forum to offer feedback so long as it is never get along…Cowboys installs from the previous day, the specific and respectful. Production and Measure and Indians, Arabs and Israelis, Republi- current day, and the day to follow. Up know that their work will be evaluated in cans and Democrats. the presence of their peers (not to mention their The second question I ask is of the Production boss) and that they are held to account. And Being the owner of a stone shop for the last Manager and Measure Up Tech about the cur- most importantly – there is no filter between 14 years, there were times I would have added rent job going out that day. departments, as the feedback is direct and fresh Installers and Fabricators to that list. Is there anything the Installers need to know in everyone’s mind so it is genuinely useful. As long as I’ve been in the stone business, the that wasn’t mentioned in the work order? So…what about your crews? Are they getting belief among installers has been that shop guys Did anything happen during production that along? Are your installers happy with the work don’t “care” as much and shop guys have always will cause problems or embarrassment for the your shop is producing? If not, it is time you believed that installers are impossible to please. installers once on site? take on the role of quarterback and call a huddle For years I was the ultimate hub for com- At this point, the counters are already being of your key people. Start calling out questions plaints and it seemed like my main job was loaded into the install trailers, so it’s too late for and demanding that they run the plays according to referee just enough civility between these Coordinator and myself as quarterback (not the shop to make any last minute fixes. But… to the playbook. two departments to get the counters made and referee!). it’s not too late to inform the Lead Installer of You will see amazing results when your installed so we could get paid. And instead of calling out plays, I’m calling any issues that the installers are going to face departments stop competing against each other But that was then and this is now. out the following questions: once on-site with the client looking over their and begin playing on the same team, for the If you’ve struggled to achieve harmony The first question I ask is to the Lead Installer shoulders. same goal! between these departments in your stone shop, for a report of the job that was installed the previ- The last question I ask is about the job that’s If you’d like to continue this topic of conver- read on as I’ll share a meeting format and man- ous day. He refers to the written install reports as going out the following day. Of the Project sation or be coached through its implementation, agement technique that has revolutionized the to how well the counters matched the templates, Coordinator, I ask if the install has been con- send me an email. relationship between our installers and the shop how well the job was templated, and to whether firmed with the client. I ask the Production Ready? Break! crew and made my life a lot easier in the process. there was anything that caused them delays. Manager and Measure Up Tech the same ques- We begin every morning now with a 15 min- Upon hearing the feedback, I give our tions as before, but with a different reason! With Aaron Crowley is a stone shop owner, author, ute huddle that covers the installs from the pre- Production Manager and Measure Up Tech a a full day before the counters will install, they speaker, and consultant to mid-size stone com- vious day, the current day, and the day to follow. moment to ask follow-up questions of the Lead have time to anticipate, identify, and resolve any panies. You may contact him at aaron@fabrica- The “We” includes our Lead Installer, Installer and to explain (or apologize, if neces- issues before the installers begin loading them. torsfriend.com Production Manager, Measure Up Tech, Project sary) what might have happened. The fact that we have these meetings every Why spend $100k for an inline machine when the Edgemate 100 will give you a PERFECT PROFILE for $6k? And you won’t have to buy special high-priced tooling!

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HE Miter Up 200 is designed breakage and eliminating rework. It is available Screen Capture to help you fabricate per- in lengths of 6 ft. with 3 L clamps, 7 ft. and 8 ft. 3-8-2013 fect laminations for miter with 4 L clamps, and 10 ft. with 5 L clamps. and rabbet joints on natural Features and benefits include: and artificial stone. Miter Up 200 is the only clamping device designed to work with the countertop surface 99 Its innovative ergonomic design allows you facing up (is this true?-LH) OUR Price: $134 ! to work with the countertop surface facing up, Lets craftsmen examine and adjust fit & finish which eliminates kneeling or bending to observe quickly and easily the alignment of the joint. Because you can Creates fine miter joints on natural & cultured clearly see and precisely adjust the fit and finish stone quickly and easily, laminations can be completed Reduces back strain in a fraction of the time, cutting labor costs while Reduces breakage improving productivity. For long jobs, it also Cuts labor costs eliminates the need for a second person to help Available in lengths 6 ft. to 10 ft. to fit your hold the lamination strip while clamping it in project place, or to help flip the top back over to finish Stainless Steel & aluminum construction for the raw newly-mitered edge. strength, durability and easy clean-up. Call NOW! The Miter Up 200 supports the fragile lamina- For more information, see the Miter Up instruc- tion strips at multiple points across the length of tional video on YouTube, or visit the Braxton- Sale Ends the joint, saving you time and money by reducing Bragg website, www.braxton-bragg.com/miterup. May 31, 2013 Laptop Letter

couple from Minneapolis decided to go to Florida for a long weekend, to thaw Why Pay Their out during one particularly bleak, icy winter.

High Because both had jobs, they had difficulty the first message, she fainted and fell to the coordinating their travel schedules. It was floor. The widow’s son rushed into the room, Prices? decided that the husband would fly to Florida found his mother on the floor, and saw the on a Thursday, and his wife would follow computer screen which read: him the next day. Upon arriving as planned, Item # Description Reg. Price Sale Price the husband checked into the hotel. There he To: My Loving Wife 9375 Makita® 5˝ Grinder, 9565CV $148.95 $134.99 decided to open his laptop and send his wife From: Your Departed Husband an e-mail back in Minneapolis. However, he Subject: I’ve Arrived! accidentally left off one letter in her address, I’ve just arrived and have checked in. I see and sent the e-mail without realizing his error. that everything has been prepared for your arrival tomorrow. Looking forward to seeing In Houston, a widow had just returned from you then! Hope your journey is as uneventful Now available at: her husband Sheldon’s funeral. He was a as mine was. minister of many years who had been “called 800-575-4401 home to glory” following a heart attack. The (P.S. It sure is a lot hotter than I expected widow checked her e-mail, expecting messag- down here!) BETTER! FASTER! CHEAPER! es from relatives and friends. Upon reading Love, Sheldon

Shop www.braxton-bragg.com for Makita 9565CV Visit www.slipperyrockgazette.net for more Stone & Tile industry news | slIppery rock GazeTTe may 2013 13 The PeRFeCT color match to ANY engineered stone Akemi Colour Bond Cartridge Adhesives

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Shop www.braxton-bragg.com for Akemi Col.our Bond Visit www.slipperyrockgazette.net for more Stone & Tile industry news | 14 may 2013 slIppery rock GazeTTe Marble Institute of America 2012 Pinnacle Award Winners Recognizing Excellence in the Stone Industry (Part 2 of 2)

HE Marble Institute of ing a large structure to a much-beloved place, Excellence to Cold Spring Granite, Cold Spring, Twin Stone Designs & Installations, Inc. of America announced the win- a strategy was developed that protected and MN for the Lakewood Cemetery Garden Hollywood, FL for the St. Regis Spa in Miami ners of the 2012 Pinnacle enhanced the cemetery’s historic landscape. At Mausoleum in Minneapolis, MN. Beach, FL. Awards competition during the mausoleum’s entry, an intricately patterned Commercial Exterior Award of Excellence The previous were all featured in the April its annual Awards Luncheon, held white mosaic rendered in infinite loops across to Port Morris Tile & Marble, Bronx, NY for issue of the Slippery Rock Gazette. during StonExpo/Marmomacc Americas white billowing surfaces re-imagines the his- the National September 11 Memorial in New The remainder of the award-winning projects 2013. This year, there were so many toric 1910 Lakewood Chapel’s colorful mosaic York, NY. are featured throughout the May SRG. notable projects recognized that we are interiors. Residential Interior/Exterior Award of Judges for the 2012 Pinnacle Awards compe- presenting the awards in two parts. The interior committal space is clad with Excellence to Picasso Tile & Stonework tition were: Alabama White marble walls. Horizontal bands of Tempe, AZ for the Desert Courtyard in Mac Walcott of Walcott Adams Verneuille The Pinnacle Awards recognize excellence of split-faced gray granite tie the structure to the Scottsdale, AZ. Architects in Fairhope, AL in commercial, residential, sustainability and earth. Bronze doors usher visitors into a serene Residential Interior/Exterior Award of Carter Quina, AIA of Quina Grundhoefer renovation/restoration of natural stone proj- space of mahogany walls, marble floors and Excellence to Stones and Roses International Co. Architects in Pensacola, Fl ects worldwide. Projects selected as winners abundant daylight. Ltd. of Samutprakam, Thailand for the Muang Christian R. Pongratz of Pongratz Perbellini must demonstrate exceptional beauty, creativ- Throughout, the contrast of textures - light Thong Thani Residence in Samutprakam, Architects in Verona, Italy ity, ingenuity, and craftsmanship in the use of and dark, rough and smooth, rustic and refined - Thailand. Gasper (G.K.) Naquin, Immediate MIA Past granite, marble, travertine, limestone, and other calls upon both visual and tactile senses to offer Renovation/Restoration Award of Excellence President of Stone Interiors in Loxley, AL natural stones. The competition is open to MIA a peaceful place for contemplation and remem- to Rugo Stone, LLC, of Lorton, VA for the members around the world. brance. At this cherished haven within the city, Saint John the Apostle Catholic Church in During the Awards Luncheon, the MIA architectural progress meets history with grace Leesburg, VA. also presented the 5th annual Grande Pinnacle and a newfound vitality. Renovation/Restoration Award of Excellence Award, sponsored by Marmomacc. A Grande The architectural firm of HGA Architects to Tennessee Marble Company of Friendsville, Pinnacle Award was also presented to the archi- of Minneapolis, Minnesota was also present- TN for the Harris County 1910 Courthouse tect involved with the winning project. The ed with a Grande Pinnacle Award for the Restoration in Houston, TX. 2012 Grande Pinnacle Award winner is: Lakewood Cemetery Garden Mausoleum. Renovation/Restoration Award of Excellence Grazzini Brothers & Company of Eagan, to Camarata Masonry Systems, Ltd. of Houston, Minnesota for the amazing interior work on The 2012 Pinnacle Award winners are: TX for the 1910 Courthouse Restoration in the Lakewood Cemetery Garden Mausoleum in Commercial Exterior Award of Excellence Houston, TX. Minneapolis, Minnesota. Challenged with add- and Grande Pinnacle Interior Award of Commercial Interior Award of Merit to

MIA Member Company: IN search of a timeless and elegant design befit- Intertile Natural Stone Surfaces ting a world class performing arts center, Myron AWARD OF MeRit San Leandro, California Commercial Interior Martin, President and CEO of the Smith Center, Stone Supplier selected David M. Schwarz Architects’ Art Deco The Smith Center for Performing Arts Superior Tile and Stone style, which incorporates 1930’s motifs and echoes San Leandro, California Las Vegas, Nevada the design elements of the nearby Hoover Dam. Stone Installer Intertile Natural Stone Surfaces imported all the marble cut-to-size and ready for installation from Other Project Team Members: Italy. The main floors are composed of light and David M. Schwarz Architects dark polished Fior di Pesco in an alternating pat- Architectural Design tern. The walls are polished Rosso Asiago installed Whiting Turner in book and diamond matched patterns. General Contractor The success of the project was largely due to the Stone: quality of Superior Tile and Stone’s engineering Fior di Pesco team, the accuracy of the fabrication and the skill Rosso Asiago of the masons, setters and finishers that installed the stone. The two Founders Walls were perhaps the most dif- ficult aspect of coordina- tion. Each wall is composed of eight perfectly aligned diamond matched panels. One is a curved wall in the concave rotunda entry. Custom fonts were devel- oped for engraving over two thousand characters, and many of the founders’ names span more than one marble panel. Continued on page 15

Shop www.braxton-bragg.com for Stone & Tile industry products Visit www.slipperyrockgazette.net for more Stone & Tile industry news | slIppery rock GazeTTe may 2013 15 Continued from page 14 MIA Member Company: THE 600 Brickell includes a high-rise office Titan Stone, LLC AWARD OF MeRit tower and 30,000 sq. ft. Brickell World Plaza. Pompano Beach, Florida Commercial Exterior The development’s feature wall was envi- Stone Contractor, Stone Installer Brickell World Plaza sioned to create a monumental relationship Other Project Team Members: Miami, Florida between the tower and the public plaza below. Forum Group Stone was selected to remain durable, yet Owner elegant over time, but also needed to have RTKL Architects enough veining and contrast to appear as stone Feature Wall Architect when viewed from below. Sasaki Associates As such, visually-linear Cappuccino Mocha Exterior Plaza Designers quartzitic limestone was selected as the prima- John Moriarity & Associates ry stone with Black Pearl granite surrounds. General Contractor Three primary sections, each 52’ tall by 25’ Curtain Wall Design & Consulting (CDC) wide, extend 100’ above the plaza—with 4 (MIA Member Company) sub-sections separated by granite reveals. Stone Façade Engineering and Design Installing book-matched and end-matched Pokarna stones, Titan had to exercise extreme care, (MIA Member Company) and no breakage occurred. Feature Wall & Granite Site Work Fabricator Also, all perimeter edges were epox- Marmotech ied together requiring “blind” anchorage, Coral Stone Site Work Fabricator achieved with a system designed by Titan and CDC to allow for last minute adjustments in Stone: three-piece anchor assemblies. Cappuccino Mocha Quartzitic Limestone Flamed, brushed Silver Pearl granite pro- Black Pearl Granite, Silver Pearl Granite vides a soft gray palette for the hard surfacing. Palladium Coral Limestone With polished Silver Pearl for the cubic fountain weirs and planter copings, more dramat- ic color was exposed. The Black Pearl fountain flooring creates a visual link to the feature wall above.

AWARD OF MeRit MIA Member Company: Residential Interior/Exterior Creative Edge Master Shop, Inc. Masterpiece of Saddle River Fairfield, Iowa Waterjet/Stone Fabricator Upper Saddle River, New Jersey Other Project Team Members: Kevo Corp Stone Installer, General Contractor Levantina USA, Inc. (MIA Member Company) Nasco Stone & Tile Stone Suppliers Aalto Design Kevo Corp Designers Working together, Harri Aalto was able to Stone: interpret and add his design style to George’s Crema Marfil, Emperador Dark, idea. Their collaboration yielded floors con- Jerusalem Gold, Indus Gold, taining over 20 colors and over 2,200 ft. of Quetzel Green, French Vanilla stunning artistry. Some of the stones used in this project were DEVELOPER George Kevo collaborated Crema Marfil, Emperador Dark, Jerusalem with Creative Edge Master Shop, Inc., and Gold, Indus Gold, Quetzel Green and French Aalto Design to design and fabricate floors for Vanilla. Design and colors were carefully cho- a French chateau masterpiece home. sen following the developer’s interior deco- A project of this nature requires meticulous rations. After a month of designing and pro- care and excellent craftsmanship. Both devel- gramming, Creative Edge Master Shop, Inc. oper George Kevo and Harri Aalto, President fabricated and shipped over 40,000 pieces of of Aalto Design, have discerning eyes and preassembled stone flooring for installation. discriminating tastes. Continued on page 38

Shop www.braxton-bragg.com for Stone & Tile industry products Visit www.slipperyrockgazette.net for more Stone & Tile industry news | 16 may 2013 slIppery rock GazeTTe

Shop www.braxton-bragg.com for Weha Slab Racks Visit www.slipperyrockgazette.net for more Stone & Tile industry news | slIppery rock GazeTTe may 2013 17 Mother’s Day Memories never see a rose bush—espe- Sam Venable cially around Mother’s Drills a Clean Hole, Special Contributor Day—without thinking of my own mom. This is particularly true if it’s a large rose in full flower. Every Time... You know, one of those fragrant, vegetative Viper® octopi slowly engulfing a giant wooden trellis. When I was a boy, a rose bush just like that Side Protection grew in the Wilsons’ yard, down the road from our house. The Wilsons lived next door and Dry Core Bit just down the hill from the Scruggs family. The Diamond segments on side greatly Scruggs’ backyard was where neighborhood lads reduce segment breaking converged daily for the Great Sports Contests of the 1950s. Gravity being what it is, our errant Fast drilling Long life footballs, baseballs, softballs and basketballs Use wet or dry always wound up next to the Wilsons’ house. 2,000 to 4,000 RPM recommended If a stupid football hadn’t rolled into the for wet use Wilsons’ yard one particular day, none of this would’ve happened. I bet one of my stupid 10,000 RPM recommended brothers, Ricky or Ronny, was to blame. They when using dry probably missed a pass or dropped a kick. Or maybe it was Jimmy Scruggs or Freddy Kautz. My conscience must have been It had to have been one of them, because I never particularly hungry that day, for it made mistakes. gnawed and gnashed and chomped New Anyhow, the football rolled and bounced down and chewed till I was a mere shell of the hill. It slowed in the dip that separated the my former self. So, I went to Mother Scruggs’ yard from the Wilsons’ yard. Then it LOw and told all. came to a stop alongside the aforementioned PRICe! rose bush. After chastising the other guys for their unbe- clean, right?) lievably sloppy ball handling, I raced downhill The doorknob turned. Yikes! for the retrieve. That’s when it happened. Fortunately, Mrs. Wilson, bless her sweet Braxton-Bragg offers an exceptional line of quality, high Again, I stress it wasn’t my fault. Ricky or soul, was kind and understanding. She said not performance core bits. Viper® Professional Core Bits are fast, long- Ronny or Jimmy or Freddy or one of those other to worry, that the rose bush would grow back. lasting, and designed to handle the toughest coring applications stupid boys probably yelled at me to kick the Then she added a zinger I surely didn’t want to stupid ball back up the stupid hill. Was I to blame hear: “Thank you for being honest enough to tell quickly, efficiently, and economically. because the rose bush was in the way? me about it. Some boys would have just run off.” Booomph! The ball barely cleared my shoe I’m telling you this story because 30 years By using high-quality diamonds, Viper® Professional Core Bits are before thorny branches snaked out and caught it. later, when my wife and I were living in a subdi- Or tried to catch it, as the case may have been. vision, a loud crunch occurred next to our house very aggressive in a wide range of applications. Our Diamond Core I don’t know the foot-pounds of energy gen- one afternoon. Mary Ann walked to the front Bits are for use on both marble and granite. erated by a freshly kicked football, but it sure as door to investigate. There stood young Justin, hell is greater than the tensile strength of a rose who lived up the street. bush. The stem snapped just above the ground, “I’m sorry, Mrs. Venable,” he said. “I ran slick as spit. over your bush on my bicycle and tore off some Our Quality Guarantee My reaction was like that of any responsible limbs.” 12-year-old boy. I ran home. Mary Ann assured Justin it was OK and We are so confident of our quality that But soon my conscience began gnawing at my thanked him for telling her. Then she walked we offer a 30-day, risk-free, money-back back into the kitchen and related the incident guarantee for our entire product offering. innards. My conscience must have been particu- If you are not satisfied with your larly hungry that day, for it gnawed and gnashed to me. purchase, simply return it for a prompt and chomped and chewed till I was a mere shell “You mean that hateful ol’ pyracantha?” I and courteous refund. of my former self. So, I went to Mother and laughed. “I detest that bush. Always have. Holler told all. at Justin to come back and try again. I’ll even get She listened patiently (although I noticed that the hedge clippers so he can do the job right.” she failed to comprehend how the sheer stupidity Mary Ann was not amused. of Ricky, Ronny, Jimmy and Freddy factored But at that very moment, a full three decades after I’d gone through all that conscience-gnaw- into my mess. At times, mothers can be amazing- Item # Description Was NOW! ly thickheaded themselves.) Then she said, “Go ing and palm-sweating, a sobering thought 7564 1-3/8˝ Viper® Professional SP Core Bit, 5/8˝ Threaded Arbor $66.50 $50.95 back to Mrs. Wilson and tell her what you did. occurred to me: Do you suppose Mr. Wilson You know that’s what you should have done in hated Mrs. Wilson’s rose bush the same way I Hurry — Sale Ends May 31, 2013 the first place, don’t you?” hated our pyracantha? Gulp. Ten minutes later—quietly, and in excruci- Sam Venable is an author, stand-up comedian, 800-575-4401 ating emotional pain—I gently tapped on the and humor columnist for the Knoxville (TN) Wilsons’ door. (If you try to apologize but News Sentinel. He may be reached at mahv@ nobody answers, it still means the slate is wiped outlook.com. BETTER! FASTER! CHEAPER!

Shop www.braxton-bragg.com for Viper Side Protection Core Bits Visit www.slipperyrockgazette.net for more Stone & Tile industry news | 18 may 2013 slIppery rock GazeTTe Surfaces Rewards Two Top What is the Real Cost of Floor Covering Distributors Edging on a Job?

at 2013 Show HAT is the actual 45% of the labor! cost of prepping a 1, If you are a one man operation, you will be HE Surfaces 2013 show floor big award. Hanley Wood helped us to get 000 square foot room? If spending almost half of your time on your knees! had boundless energy in there with their tools and ideas. We’ve made you are removing a coating If you are a team, someone else (hopefully your part due to the growing pop- a big commitment to Surfaces every year and such as cut back carpet glue, VCT tile employee or partner) is killing their back and ularity of the Distributor strongly encourage retailers to attend through glue or epoxy, how long does it take knees! No matter how you cut it, edging is pain- Partners Program that was offered by a variety of campaigns,” said Marc Haberman, with your existing equipment? ful, slow, and frustrating but necessary. Surfaces for the second year. Director of Marketing, All Tile. “Additionally, If you are polishing a floor, the edging pro- we run a Retailer Travel Program and brought If you calculate your rate of removal at cess is necessary for every step translating into Butler Johnson Corporation and All Tile Inc. over 250 people on this year’s trip. This kind 100 square feet in 30 minutes then the natu- hours and hours of labor. Hand grinders produce were awarded the Surfaces 2013 Distributor of award goes a long way to help us continue ral assumption would be that it will take 300 a different scratch pattern than the planetary Partners Program top prize, both receiving to fund these activities.” minutes or 5 hrs. to complete 1000 square feet. machines resulting in a need for blending, add- $10,000 cash for registering and bringing more “We have participated in the Distributor However, what many fail to properly calculate is ing additional time. Depending on the facility, than 300 retailers to the show, held January Partners Program every year that it has been the amount of time to complete the edging. whether residential, commercial, industrial or 28-31 at the Mandalay Bay Convention Center offered and taken full advantage of its bene- If you are working in an open 25 x 40 foot institutional, edging can represent anywhere in Las Vegas. fits. We combine the program with our own room you will have 130 feet of edging. If you from 30% to 60% more labor on a job! The Surfaces 2013 Distributor Partners distributor based hotel promotion to make can edge at a rate of 1 minute per foot, you have What many fail to realize is that technology is Program offered floor covering distributors the sure that we get as many retailers to Surfaces to add 130 minutes of time to your cost estimate. changing. With the advent of the square direct opportunity to register their retailers for free every year,” commented Clay Covington, Vice Actual labor time is 430 minutes or 7 hours. In drive multi-head grinders, the same machine can exhibits admission to the show. In addition, President of Sales, Butler Johnson. “Surfaces this example edging represents approximately be used to edge as well as to do the field, all in Surfaces provided distributors with marketing is by far the very best show in our industry and 30% of the cost of the job. one step. No unwieldy devices that incorporate kits aimed at assisting them in promoting the we will continue to do all that we can to make Now if the 1000 sq foot 25x40 area is made a hand grinder producing a different scratch show to their customers and colleagues in the it easy for our customers to attend.” up of five 10x10 rooms the cost of edging takes pattern than a planetary. industry. The kits included point of purchase Surfaces will continue the program for 2014 on a whole new meaning. A 10x10 room equals WerkMaster’s Octi-Disc technology allows materials, printed buyer invitations and regis- and encourages all floor covering distributors approximately 37´ of wall allowing for a 30 inch the operator to edge standing up while reducing tration forms as well as an electronic code for to participate. For more information contact door. Five rooms x 37 feet per room equals 185 the overall labor time and cost of completing a use in email promotions. Holly Hart, Marketing Manager, Surfaces at feet plus 35 additional feet for the 5 x 7 wall room by up to 50% over today’s conventional “All Tile is very pleased to have won this [email protected]. adjoining the open space for a total of 220 feet systems. of edging. The balance of the walls in the open For more information on WerkMaster prod- space represent an additional 60 feet for a total ucts or classes, visit the Braxton-Bragg website of 245 feet of edging. 245 minutes of edging = http://www.braxton-bragg.com. 4 hrs plus 5 hours for the field = 9 hours, almost To Tell the Tooth

FTER losing anoth- Assuming he was old enough to er tooth, young-old hear the truth, she replied, “Yes Timmy became more Timmy, I am.” curious about the Timmy seemed to take this mysterious tooth fairy. news quite well. But as he headed for the door, Finally putting two and two togeth- he slowly turned back toward his er, he came right out and asked his mother with a curious look on his mother, “Mom, are you the tooth face and said, “Wait a minute, mom. fairy?” How do you get into the other kids’ houses?”

Guilty? I’m Not Guilty!

Hawkins County man told A witness told police McFarland was near a Church Hill, TN police the Church Hill Elementary School on Jan. officer he didn’t go any- 22, dressed similarly to a thief captured on where or steal anything. surveillance video. Officials said $250 was The officer hadn’t mentioned theft. taken from an office safe. After McFarland implicated himself, he The Kingsport Times-News reported was arrested on charges of burglary, theft 25-year-old James Blake McFarland then and vandalism. told the officer he didn’t take anything at He remained in jail in lieu of $50,000 a school. Officer Dustin Dean then told bond. McFarland that he had not mentioned a school when he said he wanted to talk to Source: Kingsport Times-News, McFarland and advised him of his rights. http://www.timesnews.net

Shop www.braxton-bragg.com for Nelson Shims Visit www.slipperyrockgazette.net for more Stone & Tile industry news | slIppery rock GazeTTe may 2013 19 Richard Pierce Thomas Focus on the Why Before the How Leadership and Small Business Consultant

HOUGH the setting was dif- tions. It rarely has to do with the features of the Pragmatically, the answer lies ferent, the story was the system alone. For those who have earned scar somewhere in between the two same. I’ve observed this sce- tissue from a system installation, you know of common choices. nario repeatedly in the var- what I speak. If not, well…it’s likely not a mat- ious businesses I’ve worked with, and it ter of if, but when. You’ll just have to take my goes something like this: ning through his head at this point, the easier word for it until then. path would not have been to liberate the wun- The truth of it is that too many implementa- A business hires a young, energetic employee derkind when they had the chance, before all tions are myopically focused on the how—div- who is technologically savvy and within days kinds of money had been spent. That would ing deep into the technical aspects of the project on the job, begins identifying system improve- have been a bury-the-head-in-the-sand option. while expecting the benefits to be self-evident ments and upgrades that the company needs to The reality is the right answer is not as easy to the rest of the organization. Worse, benefits implement right away so they can start saving ideas on the open market. as one might hope, and I’ll save the tongue-in- are often extolled without a fundamental under- all kinds of money. The new employee, aka 2) Said business owner gives in because he cheek narrative for the balance of the article. standing of how the current system works. All wunderkind, begins haranguing said business simply can’t take anymore of the wunderkind’s Pragmatically, the answer lies somewhere in said, the implication leads back to our respon- owner mercilessly to purchase the system. Said persistent requests, and in a moment of weak- between the two common choices. sibility as the “said” leaders to mentor the pro- business owner drags their feet because what ness, signs the purchase request for thousands of Yes, by all means, keep the wunderkind in the cess, challenging the wunderkinds to express they haven’t fully admitted is that they don’t dollars in the hope that it will be the last he has business. We need smart young people in the the why of the effort in a way that engages the really understand all that new-fangled tech talk. heard from the kid. business to keep us abreast of what technology organization before they get to the how. Wunderkind gets frustrated at the lack of Au contraire… is doing out there in the marketplace. Given In the long run, given our ever increasing progress on the decision and drops hints that Does the saying, “no good deed goes unpun- our ever-increasing dependence on technology dependence on technology, investing in the a business competitor is rumored to be spend- ished” mean anything? There is nothing like to drive innovation in how we do business, we learning of the wunderkinds will be as import- ing obscene amounts of money on their sys- the power of a twenty-something aching to cut need the young guns within our ranks, our eyes, ant as the investment in the systems, and likely tem improvements. “Perhaps they are the only their teeth on a system install and unleashed and ears. the benefits of helping them get good at the why ones who truly appreciate what technology can on an unaware organization, causing mayhem The challenge is, however, for as much will pay in multiples well beyond any single deliver,” he offers under his breath. in the lunchroom, with the fifty-something’s promise and energy the wunderkinds bring to benefit one system can deliver. Now, at this point one of two things usually suddenly figuring out their email to send nasty the business, they lack the very thing that most Rick P. Thomas is President of Activate happen: grams to the youngster, and a line of complain- of us leaders can give them, but rarely make Leadership, a leadership development consultan- 1) Said business owner has had enough of the ing employees coming out of the said business the time for—mentoring and guidance on why cy in Washington state. He consults and speaks annoying yammering from the wunderkind and owner’s office. we ask our organizations to double down and to organizations across the country, focusing on invites him to depart the organization, to try his In spite of what rich metaphors may be run- endure the headaches of system implementa- individual and organizational achievement. Hands-On WERKMASTER™ Training: July 9th - 11th, 2013 WerkMaster : the most effective floor prep machine in the world! Location: Braxton-Bragg, 4100 Appalachian Way, Knoxville, TN 37918 Who should attend? Contractors and distributors looking to gain a knowledge and understanding of floor preparation and hard surface polishing techniques… and want a new way to make money in their business. What will be taught? Three full days of hands-on, “real life” Decorative Concrete Training featuring the latest grinding and polishing techniques, equipment, tooling and chemicals. Graduates will CALL leave knowledgeable in surface preparation, concrete grinding, and polishing steps and procedures. FOR AddITIONAL dATeS Course fees: $1,500 per person ($1,500 for the first person, $1,000 for second person or more attendees from the same company). Includes: Continental breakfast, catered lunch, prizes and gift certificates.

For more info and to reserve your spot, contact Kurt Alexander, 1-877-493-0205 or visit online at www.braxton-bragg.com/werkmastertraining.

NOTe: This class will be advertised to more than 15,000 customers and clients. However, in order for all attendees to get hands-on training, there is only room for the first 10 people who respond. Don’t delay, register today!

Visit www.braxton-bragg.com to register for WerkMaster Hands-On Training Visit www.slipperyrockgazette.net for more Stone & Tile industry news | 20 may 2013 slIppery rock GazeTTe Maintenance and Preservation After the Sale Peter J. Marcucci Can You Say: Follow-Up Service? Special Contributor

NSTALLERS have just put Seemingly daunting and insurmountable while done your job correctly from when the client/ the final touch on that managing fabrication duties, many owners just salesman relationship began till the end, you’ve dream kitchen in Mr. and avoid this follow-up income like the plague due already earned that trust; and if servicing this Mrs. Upscale’s home and to lack of capitol, not knowing what’s needed investment is presented to them during the sale, both clients are euphoric! or how to structure this portion of the company. or better yet, as they stand there awestruck hand- There’s one more factor and it’s a big one: ing you final payment, your company and the You are their salesperson and Mr. Upscale trust, or the lack of it. Some clients will let the need for maintenance is built into their mindset shakes your hand while the Mrs. hands you a condition of their expensive floors or counter- and accepted. check for the balance. You hand them a final tops decline in lieu of inviting a maintenance So, if you agree that it ain’t over till it’s over receipt and close the deal by saying, “Thank you tech into their homes due to lack of trust in the and want to cash in on this lucrative growth sec- so much!” and then, “Goodbye.”— Right? person or company assigned to the task. tor, the following products available at Braxton- Au contraire! Rewind for just a moment back But being the original fabricator, and if you’ve Bragg will help get you into action. to the “thank you” part – and instead of saying goodbye, you say, “Your countertops look out- standing. May I show you our optional follow-up service plans to insure they stay that way for many years to come?” If you think about it, follow-up maintenance of a clients’ stone work is as good or better than Tenax TeEtch and word of mouth advertising. Yes, word of mouth Watermark Remover is by far the best advertising and may be the way Specifically engineered to remove etching your company acquires much of its work. But and watermarks, as well as water rings and how about the benefits (and compliment) of a dull spots on natural stone, Tenax TeEtch even past client asking you back into their home for removes light scratches on soft stone such follow-up work to keep that great looking job as travertine and onyx. Simply apply a small maintained? amount over the dull area or watermark, and Remember that famous quote by Yogi Berra, within a few minutes of rubbing, the blemish is ® “It ain’t over till it’s over.” The company/client Akemi Nano Effect Sealers Steve’s Polishing Pro Systems gone. So, before making the choice to sand or relationship is only over when either, or both, And Stain Repellent Restoration Kit dia-pad a blemish on any natural stone, choose parties have no further need for the other. But Engineered with outstanding impregnation While combining a proprietary mixture of to use Tenax TeEtch first. ® as business owners, don’t we always appreciate characteristics, Akemi Nano Effects Sealer powders with the patented high-speed polish- revenue from diverse sources? So, why is it that and Stain Repellent delivers on the promise of ing pad that draws this mixture into the center only a handful of fabricators aggressively offer a food safe stain barrier that is usable within of the pad where it belongs, Steve’s Polishing maintenance service to their prior established 2-3 hours after application. Touted by some Pro Systems Restoration Kit then gently cre- ® clients after the sale? Let’s dive right into the as the best sealer ever, Akemi Nano Effects ates a re-polished surface on natural stone with details and see, shall we? Sealer will not, in most cases, alter the color less mess and less waste. Steve’s Polishing For one reason or another, stone fabrication of the material, and is sold with a 30-day, risk- Pro Systems even offers optional pads in 2, 3, companies, mostly smaller, are just not struc- free, money-back guarantee. Pony up for a one 4, and 6˝ diameters as well as an extra gentle tured to pursue this lucrative market, letting the liter bottle and see for yourself. All you have 6½˝ velvet pad. Also available is a Steve’s Pro restoration privateer driving the step van get to lose is stains. Systems Restoration Kit for engineered stone. the work. He may do a great job; then again he may not — leaving your once happy customer unhappy. While there, he may also acquire other work, such as cleaning and removing stains or grout- ing; maybe even a very lucrative floor refinish, just because he’s there and it needs to be done. It’s convenient at the time for the client and the privateer wins. So, it’s quite possible that Joe Shop-owner may not pursue maintenance service because he just doesn’t know how to do the work. Granted, Bellinzoni Mangia Macchia we all know how to cut a job and grind and pol- Stain Remover ish an edge and then show up and install it. But Dr. Fred’s Stone Care Kits Tenex Ager Bellizoni, a name synonymous with bril- how many of us really know how to change from Dr. Fred Hueston of Stone Forensics has cre- If you’re installing or maintaining a granite liance since 1927, has created a premixed, style to substance and finesse our way through ated an easy-to-use poultice stain remover for kitchen, and seams don’t seem to match as easy-to-use poultice, that’s “the bomb” when a re-finishing job in a home filled with creature use on natural stone that is similar to a teabag. well as they should due to UV damage, or the it comes to getting out those really tough set-in comforts with the creatures living there? Just soak the bag in water, place on the stain quick cooling effect of rain on a sun-heated stains in marble, granite, terracotta, terraz- Then there’s the training of that hopefully and seal with a light plastic. Within 24 hours slab (mostly in the sunbelt), you’ll appreciate zo and ceramic. Bellizoni’s Mangia Macchia “long-term employee” who can schmooze with the stain should be gone with no fuss and no what Tenax Ager can do for you. Also great (stain eater in Italian) will eliminate stains the client as well as get the job done, day after muss. Sold in a 3-pack and 10-pack, Dr. Fred’s for matching machined edges to the surface of from coffee, oils and wine, etc. Available in a day. And don’t forget the cost of a possible dedi- Stone Care Kits are an excellent choice for the resined slabs, Tenax Ager also works well at 250 ml bottle, Bellizoni Mangia Macchia Stain cated vehicle and supplies and tools: sanders big busy stone technician, and can even be left enhancing the intensity of brushed, flamed or Remover is a proven, effective stain remover. and small and all the goodies that go with them. with the homeowner to use when you leave. sandblasted surfaces and edges. Continued on page 23

Shop www.braxton-bragg.com for Stone & Tile industry products Visit www.slipperyrockgazette.net for more Stone & Tile industry news | slIppery rock GazeTTe may 2013 21 HOW TO STAND OUT IN THE MARKET? Use our tools to deliver quality ... not just countertops.

Pro-Cart AT2 The Pro-Cart AT2 is Omni Cubed’s new generation all-terrain countertop installation cart! The AT2 includes the same features as the popular AT1 model, with even more benefits.

Collapsible clamp uprights for easy countertop removal and tilting of large stone pieces onto cabinets Adjustable, sliding wheel base for matching to different distances between stair treads The caster legs fold down for easy storage in tight spaces

Large, 10” casters provide great all-terrain handling Max Clamp Opening: 73mm (2.88in) Weight Capacity: 1,000 lbs.

Pro-Cart AT2 AWARDED! STONEXPO Folding Caster Legs “Best New Product” & Best of “Innovation”

Adjustable Wheelbase

OMNI CUBED, INC. PLACERVILLE, CA Made in the USA from U.S. and Imported Parts Collapsible Uprights

Omni Cubed, Inc. Watch the videos on our website! Call 800-575-4401 to Order www.omnicubed.com GO

Shop www.braxton-bragg.com for the Omni Cubed AT-2 Visit www.slipperyrockgazette.net for more Stone & Tile industry news | 22 may 2013 slIppery rock GazeTTe

Shop www.braxton-bragg.com for Akemi Akepox 5010 Shop www.braxton-bragg.com for Flex products | slIppery rock GazeTTe may 2013 23 Maintenance and Preservation After the Sale Continued from page 20

Supreme Surface Stone Care Products To protect all the hard work you’ve just put into your very important client’s home, for protection and preservation, recommend a daily, spray-on, wipe-off coat of Supreme Surface Granite Cleaner and Conditioner. Not just a sealer or stain repellent, it is considered to be the most advanced clean- ing and conditioning technology in the current market of products and will clean and protect in just one easy step. It makes a great resale product to stock for walk-in homeowners and cleaning Abrasive Technology Dia-Glo™ Buffing Compound services, and a fantastic installation completion gift for your newest, satisfied customer. If you’re storing your marble slabs outside or just need to kick up the glow a notch or two on a clients’ marble vanity, Dia-Glo™ M Buffing Compound by Abrasive Technology is the stuff great marble surface finishes are made of. For light-color granite, try Dia-Glo™ L, and D and S Punishment to Fit the Crime compounds for dark and black granites. So, be it a radial arm polisher or Fab King in the shop, or surface work on the job, Dia-Glo™ Buffing Compounds are a brilliant choice. Also a sparkling N Elliott County, KY man of the church building wearing a sign that read combination when used with a WerkMaster™ floor machine. whose unusual theft sen- “I stole from this church.” The church is across tence sent him to church the street from Nickell’s home. has again been charged WKYT-TV in Lexington, Kentucky report- with stealing. ed Nickell chose attending church, but author- ities have now arrested him on another theft After James Nickell told a judge he stole charge. He’s charged with theft by unlawfully from First Baptist Church in Sandy Hook, the taking under $500. judge let him choose his sentence. The choices were a year in jail or to attend worship services Source: TWKYT-TV, at the church for six weeks and walk in front http://www.wkyt.com

Do You Smell Garlic?

Zero Degree Burn Rigid Backer Pads WEDISH prosecutors The Zero Burn Back-Up Pad, created by Steve have issued interna- Anneker of Steve’s Polishing Pro Systems LLC, tional arrest warrants saves you time because of the multi-directional for two Britons suspect- action that cross-cuts the stone with each revolu- ed of masterminding a smuggling tion of the machine. This speeds up the scratch ring involving Chinese garlic. removal and polishing process. It also results in a tighter polishing pattern, which results in a The men first shipped the garlic to higher sheen than is available from standard pro- Norway by boat, where it entered the cesses, even on engineered stone! If your client’s country duty-free since it was considered Silestone countertop has a scratch, this baby and to be in transit, prosecutor Thomas Ahlstrand Pamir Liquid or Solid Wax Steve‘s Polishing Pro System for ES is exactly said. They then drove large shipments of It was not the first time smugglers have When in the client’s home and that “to polish what you need to remove it. Training classes in garlic across the Norwegian-Swedish border, shown a preference for garlic from China, or not to polish – that is the question,” moment Steve’s certified-effective method are available avoiding customs checks and thus Swedish which accounts for nearly 80 percent of world arrives, a coat of Pamir paraffin base wax and a through the Braxton-Bragg website. import duties. output and is often significantly cheaper than fistful of (0000) steel wool may just do the trick. You can always count on Braxton-Bragg for Ahlstrand said the men avoided paying local varieties. A flagship product of Fidal Abrasivi for years, the most up-to-date products, most comprehen- some €10 million ($13.1 million) in Swedish In 2010, Polish authorities seized six con- Pamir solid has been polishing natural stone lon- sive training and unsurpassed service. Call a rep- taxes with the scheme, which took place in tainers with 144 tons of Chinese garlic that ger than I have, and has gotten me out of difficult resentative today! Remember: “You snooze— 2009 and 2010. A lengthy police investigation had been smuggled into the country via the circumstances more times than I’d like to admit. you lose!” led to the identification of the two Britons. Netherlands. Available in white or black solid or transparent Peter J. Marcucci has over 25 years of fab- Ahlstrand initially said they smuggled in 1.2 It was not immediately clear whether the liquid, the next time you’re doing maintenance rication experience in the stone industry. Send tons of garlic, but later said the exact amount Polish smuggling was linked to the Swedish in a client’s home and the situation is both risky your comments to our Contacts page on the SRG was unclear. case. and iffy, try to “Pamir it” first. website, www.slipperyrockgazette.net.

Shop www.braxton-bragg.com for Stone & Tile industry products Visit www.slipperyrockgazette.net for more Stone & Tile industry news | 24 may 2013 slIppery rock GazeTTe

Mobile Device QR Code for G-Clips

Use your Smartphone to see the Item # 78451- G-Clip for Ceramic Undermount G-Clip Undermount System demo.

Not That You Would, But You Could… No Screws, No Glues… Just “G-Clip” It and Forget It! nstall any undermount sink in just 15 minutes with no return No Temporary Supports Needed trips…ever. With the revolutionary G-Clip, silicone is only needed for what it I was designed to do – sealing against water. Imagine the additional That’s the promise of the revolutionary product called the “G-Clip”. benefits: no need to build a support system or use temporary supports The G-Clip is a tried and proven fastening system that allows you to until the silicone cures. easily and professionally install any undermount sink. Call for a FREE Sample Easy to Install You can try the G-Clip free today by calling 1-800-575-4401 and While some anchoring systems require expensive tools to do the asking for a FREE sample today. And once you decide to stock up job, the G-Clip system can be mounted with a blade and grinder, on this amazing tool, you’re still covered by Braxton-Bragg’s 30-Day tools familiar to most fabricators and installers. Unconditional Money Back Guarantee.

Installs in Less than 15 Minutes In less than 15 minutes, a sink can be securely installed. Most un- dermount systems require silicone to hold the weight of the sink. Our Quality Guarantee We are so confident of our quality that Item # Description Everyday LOW Price, Each we offer a 30-day, risk-free, money-back 78450 G-Clip Undermount System, 38mm Clip Inserts into Groove $1.99 guarantee for our entire product offering. 78451 G-Clip Z-Plates, 36 mm Bracket for Ceramic Sinks $1.99 If you are not satisfied with your 78452 G-Clip Hook Plates, Bracket for Stainless Steel Undermount Sinks $1.49 purchase, simply return it for a prompt 78453 G-Clip & Hook Plate, 12 Each (Pack) $23.95 and courteous refund. 78454 G-Clip & Z-Plate, 12 Each (Pack) $36.95 78455 G-Clip & Hold Down Bracket, 6 Each (Pack) $33.95 78456 G-Clip, Joint Plate & Packer, (8 G-Clips, 4 Joint Plates, 20 Packers Pack) $29.95

Call 800-575-4401 Fax 800-915-5501 BETTER! FASTER! CHEAPER!

Shop www.braxton-bragg.com for the G-Clip Undermount System Visit www.slipperyrockgazette.net for more Stone & Tile industry news | slIppery rock GazeTTe may 2013 25 4 .10 Now YOU can solve a $20000 problem for only $495 and we’ll send you a FREE sample to prove it.

New – and – Improved! More than 330,000 sold! Call for your FREE sample! Michael Peay, a veteran home builder with 30 Installation Solution your job is done, with regard to the dishwasher. years of experience that includes hundreds of Can $4.10 solve this costly return trip? The If the dishwasher and countertop are already in kitchen installs, was continually confronted with a answer is YES! It is estimated that it could cost place, simply bend the tabs to fit in between the nagging problem—mounting the dishwasher. Out nearly $200.00 in time, labor and fuel to pull cabinets, apply silicone, put in place and fasten with of frustration, Michael Peay invented and patented someone off another job for this one chore. There the hardware supplied. the solution. is no need for the dishwasher to be on site and you can install before or after the countertop is installed. No More Call Backs to Install a Dishwasher! Installation Problem And it is designed to fit all standard dishwashers This solution seems so simple, the only question Why is installing the dishwasher always on the and install them correctly. you’ll ask is, “Why didn’t I think of this?” This punch list? There are many reasons; after all, who product really works, and we’ll prove it to you. is responsible for this task? Is it the granite guy, the Easy To Use We’ll give you a FREE E-Z Dishwasher Bracket. plumber, the appliance delivery man, or the general The E-Z Dishwasher Bracket can be installed in We guarantee that you’ll agree this is a real $4.10 contractor? If the granite installer is responsible 2 minutes and is a permanent solution. If the dish- solution. Call Braxton-Bragg and never have to and the dishwasher is on site, there is no problem, washer is not installed or not on site, simply fasten make that expensive return trip again. Our knowl- but many times this is not the case. So in order to the E-Z Dishwasher Bracket to the cabinet with edgeable sales staff wants to let you know “you have preserve your good name and reputation it means the hardware supplied, apply silicone to dampen a friend in Tennessee” and we listen to you. Count an expensive return trip to install the dishwasher. the sound, and install the granite. As simple as that, on Braxton-Bragg for all your installation needs. Call today! Toll free 1-800-575-4401 Offer extended due to popularity! Call and receive a FREE E-Z Dishwasher Bracket!

See The Item # Description Everyday LOW Price 10565 E-Z Dishwasher Bracket, Mounting Screws Included $4.10 e-Z BracketdeO all for ATed vI C ANIm TON- frEE hTTP://www.BRAx a ! dIShwASheR SamplE BRAgg.COm/eZ OurO QualityQ li GuaranteeG “We use them when the dishwasher is not on site. We are so confident of our quality that we offer a 30-day, risk-free, money-back Works great, no return trips.” guarantee for our entire product offering. If you are not satisfied with your purchase, simply return it for a prompt Jeremy Williamson, SFA and courteous refund. Granite Shop Manager Kitchen Craft Inc. Osage Beach, MO MADE IN THE USA

Call 800-575-4401 Fax 800-915-5501 BETTER! FASTER! CHEAPER!

Shop www.braxton-bragg.com for the E-Z Dishwasher Bracket Visit www.slipperyrockgazette.net for more Stone & Tile industry news | 26 may 2013 slIppery rock GazeTTe Old School Mom Jokes Florim Introduces “Urban

NE early morning, a mother get to D but I can get to K! .... A, B, C, D, E, Wood” a Stunning Wood-Look went in to wake up her son. F, G, H, I, J, K!” “Wake up, son. It’s time to go The mother says, “Very good, honey.” Porcelain Tile Range to school!” The blonde then asked, “Is that because I’m a blonde, mommy?” The mother responds, Son: “But why, mom? I don’t want to go.” “Yes, dear.” Mom: “Give me two reasons why you The third day the blonde come home from school and said to her mother, “Mommy, don’t want to go.” today in school we went swimming! But I was Son: “Well, the kids hate me for one, and the only one who had breasts. Is that because the teachers hate me, too!” I’m a blonde, mommy?” Mom: “Oh, that’s no reason to not to go to And the mother responds, “No, honey, it’s school. Come on, now, and get ready.” because you’re twenty-five.” Son: “Give me two reasons why I should ––––––––––––––––– go to school.” My Teacher is Thankful Mom: “Well, for one, you’re 52 years old. Son: “Mom, teacher was asking me today, And for another, you’re the principal!” if I have any brothers or sisters who will be ––––––––––––––––– coming to school.” Blonde Ambition Mom: “That’s nice of her to take such an One day a blonde came home from school interest in you. So, what did she say when you and came to her mother and said, “Hey, told her that you’re the only child, my dear?” Mommy! Mommy! Today in school we Son: “She just said…‘Thank goodness!’” learned to count. The other kids could only ––––––––––––––––– count to three but I can count to ten..... 1, 2, Back to School 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10!” Little Johnny had finished his summer vaca- The mother responds, “Very good, honey.” tion and gone back to school. Two days later The blonde asks, “Is that because I’m a his teacher phoned his mother to tell her that blonde, mommy?” And the mother responds, he was misbehaving. “Yes, dear.” “Wait a minute,” she said. “I had Johnny Next day the blonde came home and went with me for three months and I never called to her mother and said, “Today in school we you once when he misbehaved.” learned our ABCs! The other kids could only ––––––––––––––––– Available in six wood-look colors (Ash, Honey, Oak, Walnut, Wenge and White Birch), three rectified tile are available: 4˝x24˝, 6˝x24˝ (in either the Natural or Grip finish) and 6˝x36˝ , which is a new size format offered by Florim USA. For safety purposes in outdoor applications, it is recommended that Urban Wood tiles with the non-slip, high coefficient of friction “Grip Finish,” are specified.

Is your crew ALL WET ? RBAN Wood is a beautiful tions, it is recommended that Urban Wood tiles new porcelain tile range with the non-slip, high coefficient of friction which is ideal for any appli- “Grip Finish,” are specified. Keep your crew WARM cation, especially for cre- Stefano Rabaioli, Vice President of Sales & ative projects where the “look of wood” Marketing, Florim USA stated, “We believe and Working this winter! is typically not specified. In particu- Urban Wood is the ideal choice for commercial lar, for hospitality suites’ kitchens and applications where the look of natural wood bathrooms. has been selected, but the durability and ease of Get the ORIGINAL maintenance offered by porcelain tile material Additionally, it offers exquisite natural visu- is a necessity. Our Tennessee manufacturing Stone Sleeve™ als when installed on patios and other outdoor facility, which is one of the most comprehen- Fabricator’s Sleeve areas. The product line is extremely durable; sive in all of America, has the capacity to pro- end-users will enjoy the look of real wood duce large amounts of this product range. We while benefiting from the ease of maintenance also have the warehousing capability to store inherent only to porcelain tile material. material we manufacture, which makes prod- Urban Wood is characterized by its ucts such as Urban Wood ideal for architectural through-color porcelain body combined with specifications that include future roll-outs and an incredibly realistic wood-look surface, cre- other commercial expansions dependent upon ated by cutting-edge High Definition Graphic using the same material installed in project Soft rubber cuff fits (HDG) Technology. A soft to the touch, con- number one.” closely around the wrist temporary, rectified tile, Urban Wood enables Made in the USA, Urban Wood has a for a water-tight seal. the installer to use smaller grout joints which Dynamic Coefficient of Friction (DCOF) rat- not only give the new tiled area a more mono- ing of > 0.42 and a >0.50 DCOF for its Grip lithic appearance… the smaller the grout joint, Finish materials, making it an ideal choice for the lesser the time and expense for future nearly any application (residential/commercial cleaning. and indoor/outdoor). Additionally, all Urban Available in six wood-look colors (Ash, Wood materials contain 10% recycled content. Available from Honey, Oak, Walnut, Wenge and White Birch), Projects which designed with Urban Wood three rectified tile are available: 4˝x24˝, 6˝x24˝ being specified are eligible for LEED points. (in either the Natural or Grip finish) and 6˝x36˝, To find out more about Florim USA, visit which is a new size format offered by Florim the website: www.florimusa.com or call 800-575-4401 www.braxton-bragg.com USA. For safety purposes in outdoor applica- 1-877-FLORIM-1.

Shop www.braxton-bragg.com for Stone Sleeves Visit www.slipperyrockgazette.net for more Stone & Tile industry news | slIppery rock GazeTTe may 2013 27

Shop www.braxton-bragg.com for Bellinzoni Products Visit www.slipperyrockgazette.net for more Stone & Tile industry news | 28 may 2013 slIppery rock GazeTTe

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Shop www.braxton-bragg.com for Groves Products Visit www.slipperyrockgazette.net for more Stone & Tile industry news | 30 may 2013 slIppery rock GazeTTe The Slippery Rock Classifieds Create a polished profiled edge using a Classified Ad Guidelines All faxed ads must be typed–No cup wheel and polishing pads Repair Services hand-written ads–No exceptions. Create a contentious edge on seamed ads not mEEting guidElinEs will not Please review all your ad info before AIR TOOL OVERHAUL – bE publishEd. tops submitting– NO refunds will be given Complete overhauls for selected mod- Beveling seams and making them so $30.00 per print ad, per month. Ads for ads that are submitted with the els, include ALL NEW upgraded bear- invisible you won’t need to color your may be renewed by contacting the wrong contact info or content and then ings, oil seals, O-rings, body gaskets, epoxy Slippery Rock Gazette. Free ads online! published. head packing, vanes, and the honing Doing backsplashes Maximum of 70 words or less per ad Best way to submit an ad is by going of cylinder. We will restore YOUR Payment must be made at the time ad online at www.slipperyrockgazette.net Bevel including an inverted bevel TOOLS to run like NEW! FREE Pre- is submitted. Credit or Debit Card only. for a free ad, or use the online form for Edge shaping procedures Overhaul Inspection. $159.00 plus A Credit Authorization Form is avail- a print ad, then fax payment to 865-688- Using cup wheels and grinding your $4.95 Shipping and Handling. Call able by fax, or download a PDF from 8254, (Attn: Karen Richards). glued up edge for available model numbers. Stone the Slippery Rock website. Prepping your seams Perfect Enterprises, Inc. Call 503-705- Grinding of the stone Readers Please Note: 2398. Email: [email protected] 2013 Classified Ad Deadlines Tricks of the trade ______Issue Ad Submission Deadline The information contained in our Set up Classifieds section is provided by The seminar fee is only $599.00 and June 2013 Tuesday, April 30, 2013 third parties and not an endorsement includes: All training materials, class- July 2013 Wednesday, May 29, 2013 of particular products, companies or room, demonstrations & hands-on train- Join Us employers. The SRG® encourages all ing, lunches and snacks. Each Month! August 2013 Tuesday, June 25, 2013 interviewing employers to carefully For more info and to reserve your spot, contact Kurt Alexander, toll-free at 1-877- conduct prescreening of all prospec- For your subscription requests, 493-0205 or visit online at www.brax- address changes, and tive employees, and purchasers of ern fabrication shop & backup. Digital ton-bragg.com, then click “Hands-On For Sale templating with compatible CNC. used equipment are encouraged to FREE CLASSIFIEDS, Training” at the top of the page. visit www.slipperyrockgazette.net Approximately one acre slab & rem- use caution and common sense. ______FOR SALE: Steinex Used “C-frame” nant yard. Recycled water system. Low Hydraulic stone splitter and motorized, utility bills and rent. Building and land reinforced conveyor with high side- purchase option available. All equip- of a router, a drill press, an in-line boards. Igloo Sherpa model 480x450 ment in good or like new condition. back splash polishing machine, top DEMO & CLOSEOUT has 132 tons of splitting force, 18.9˝ 35 minutes west of Austin, TX. Owner polisher, and a radial arm sink cut out blade length, 17.7˝ blade height, and retiring. Selling for less than total asset machine into one. You’ll learn the best TOOLS & EqUipMEnT a 157.48˝ x 39.37˝ loading conveyor, value. Asking $675K. Financing pos- techniques of how to use one machine, Premium diamond tooling and equipment at instead of many to get the best polish, controlled at the splitter console. The sible. Email [email protected]. rock-bottom prices. Call now – Limited Quantities! ______cut-outs and profile edges in the stone price is $45,000.00 FOB, Whitehall, • Zenesis I 20˝ blades, 18mm seg., $299 • Demo Diamant-D VX3 14˝ or NY. Contact André @ (518) 260-2158 Excellent business opportunity in industry. or email [email protected]. Long Island, New York. Established This 2-day course covers: 16˝, $100 • Pearl Super Dry Gold 7˝ Blade, $70.53 • Pearl GRT 4˝ Blade ______Tile Store, Tiles Importers and Marble How to cut sink holes w/o quad holes, $26.98 • 4˝ Viper Turbo Blades, no Quad Holes, buy 10 for FOR SALE: Single Phase to 3 Phase Shop. We have been in business for Proper way of profiling edges $50 • 7-1/4 Makita Accu Saw with 5 & 10 foot rails, $1,149.50 • Roto Zip Converters. I have two units used over 20 years. Asking price $450,000. Best way to drill holes for one year to power a computer Contact Michael 516-790-2810. How to polish back splashes & slabs RZ2000 VS Spiral Saw Kit, $116.97 • Diamant-D Lampo 2000 Saw Blades, controlled straight line polisher and ______ Best antiquing practices 12˝, $199 • #21202 Marmo V60, Pos. 1 Segmented Router Bit, $384 bridge saw. Purchased new for $2,000 Surface honing techniques each – asking $1,200 each. Also have Proper tool selection Call 800-575-4401 or visit Close OUTS page a Phase-A-Matic motor generator for Help Wanted Creating templates out of plywood at www.braxton-bragg.com non computer controlled equipment for or HDPE $500. Email [email protected]. Hiring– Experienced Stone Cutter The seminar fee is only $599.00 and ______(5 years or more) for GMM Bridge includes: All training materials, class- FOR SALE: Fantini Quarry Wire Saw and CNC Z Bavelloni Profiling room, demonstrations & hands-on train- MMarblearble CCityity MMaCaChinehine Saw, $7500.00 OBO. Call Pete at 802- Machine. Send resume/experience to ing, lunches and snacks. 558-1797. [email protected], For more info and to reserve your spot, SaLeS oF neW Denver machineS ______Granites of America, 15 Branch Pike, contact Kurt Alexander, toll-free at Smithfield, RI 02917. EOE 1-877-493-0205 or visit online at www. training on Denver machineS ______braxton-bragg.com, then click “Hands- Business Opportunities Project Manager Needed. Marmi On Training” at the top of the page. PartS For Denver, achiLLi anD otherS ______Natural Stone is the Atlanta area’s lead- Service anD teLePhone SUPPort avaiLabLe Granite Shop For Sale or Lease: ing source for sophisticated fabrication The Edgemate System Training Everything needed for granite fabrica- and an exotic selection of natural stone. Wednesday, July 24 - Thursday, July tion. New state of the art building, not a To support the operations team, we 25, 2013. Braxton-Bragg LLC is proud [email protected] PPhone:: 865-966-5725865-966-5725 retro-fit. 1-1/2 acres on heavy volume, need a Project Manager to ensure jobs to be the first one in the stone industry to 4 lane commuting to & from Pittsburgh, are executed per company standard. announce and offer hands-on Edgemate PA location. Turn Key operation. Call F/T salary position with benefits. PM Training. The Edgemate System can be for details, 412-527-5705. must have relevant experience, be orga- used in many applications, including ______nized and communicate effectively in a backsplashes, bevels, seam dressing, Stone Forensics.com Do You Want 10, 20, 30 + More high-paced environment. Fax resume grind back laminated build ups and inSPectionS - conSULtation - eXPert WitneSS Installs Per Month? We can take you to 770-685-6190 or e-mail to info@ tops with inside corners like your “L” from wholesale to retail and fill the marmistone.com. Marmi is a drug-free shape and bat wing tops. Because it is void left by channel partner’s drying employer. portable, you carry the machine to the Stone Forensics is comprised of engineers, scien- up. We have generated over 2.5 million ______stone, not the other way around, saving tists, and geologists with an expertise in natural in sales for our customers in 2011. you time and labor costs. This train- stone installations and failures relating to natural Your phone can be ringing in as little ing workshop will give you experience stone installations. Services range from specifying as 24 hrs. Call today 877-877-1916 Training using the Edgemate 100, the Chopper, consultation to providing expert witness testimony. or visit www.fireups.com. We are the the Tracker, as well as the Bandit granite marketing experts! Markets are Fab King Training Wednesday, June machines. You’ll gain the knowledge Stone Forensics exclusive. Call today! 19 - Thursday, June 20, 2013. Braxton- on the best way to use them, as well as Consultants in Natural Stone For more 740 Nelda Ave. ______Bragg LLC is proud to be the first hear tips and tricks of the trade. inFormation, Established Granite, Marble, Quartz one in the stone industry to announce This 2-day course covers: contact: Palm Bay, FL 32907 Business for Sale: Multiple show- and offer hands-on Fab King Training. Learn to polish stone the right way, 321-514-6845 | www.stoneforensics.com rooms, and locations. Complete mod- The Fab King combines the functions using the portable line polisher

Shop www.braxton-bragg.com for Stone & Tile industry products Visit www.slipperyrockgazette.net for more Stone & Tile industry news | slIppery rock GazeTTe may 2013 31 Jill Archambeau Awarded with 2012 MIA Natural Stone Scholarship Award

ILL Archambeau, Sales/ has set up an in-depth training program for all Office Manager for newly hired staff, as well as directing our staff in RockSolid Stone Works ‘refresher’ training courses.” (RSW) of Cleveland, Ohio, Thomas continues, “Jill’s drive and energy to is the winner of the 2012 MIA Natural meet and exceed the expectations of our custom- Stone Scholarship Award, presented ers on a daily basis is truly exemplary. She never annually to aspiring industry fabrica- ceases to amaze me with her desire to make sure tors, installers, apprentices and adminis- our customers are completely satisfied with all trative employees interested in further- aspects of their purchase – from initial product ing their careers in the stone industry. selection through installation. “Most clients today purchase only one natural Archambeau’s selection was based on a 500- stone countertop in their lifetime, and Jill’s aspi- word essay explaining her commitment to the ration is to make this event a very pleasurable, natural stone industry. In her essay, Archambeau fun and rewarding experience. It’s been my plea- said, “I’ve always felt that training is the most sure to work with Jill at two different locations important part of any job. I believe this schol- and at both locations she has excelled.” arship is one resource that will give me the MIA Executive Vice President, Jim Hieb, opportunity to learn, improve and master many agreed with Thomas, “Jill is a fantastic repre- new and existing skills. As with any learning sentative of the natural stone industry and her opportunity that presents itself, I will share my energy is contagious. It was fantastic to award experience with my co-workers and team. In this scholarship to someone who truly appreciat- today’s market place, knowledge and improve- ed and took advantage of it.” ment of one’s self should be a goal for every This scholarship was established in 2004 to employee and business owner.” provide educational opportunities for aspiring In a letter of recommendation, Kevin Thomas, fabricators, installers, or administrative appren- General Manager of RockSolid Stone Works tices interested in furthering their careers within Jill Archambeau, Sales/Office Manager for RockSolid Stone Works (RSW) of Cleveland, Ohio, is the said, “Jill’s personal mantra is ‘knowledge is the natural stone industry. Funds are made avail- winner of the 2012 MIA Natural Stone Scholarship Award, presented annually to aspiring indus- power’. She is constantly looking for new or able through the generous donations of MIA try fabricators, installers, apprentices and administrative employees interested in furthering their better ways to train her staff here at RSW. She members worldwide. careers in the stone industry. A Girl Just Like Mom

RED is 32 years old and tion – you need to find a girl who’s is still single. One just like your mother.” day a friend asked, A few months later they meet “Why aren’t you again and his friend says, “So, did married? Can’t you find a woman you find the perfect girl? Did your good enough for you?” mother like her?” With a frown, Fred answered, “Yes, I found Fred replied, “Actually, I’ve found many the perfect girl. She was just like my mother. women I wanted to marry, but when I bring And you were right, my mother liked her very them home to meet my parents, my mother much.” doesn’t like them.” “Then what’s the problem?” asked his bud. His friend replies, “I’ve got the perfect solu- Fred replied, “My father doesn’t like her.”

Shop www.braxton-bragg.com for Stone & Tile industry products Visit www.slipperyrockgazette.net for more Stone & Tile industry news | 32 may 2013 slIppery rock GazeTTe

Shop www.braxton-bragg.com for Tenax TEBlossum Visit www.slipperyrockgazette.net for more Stone & Tile industry news | slIppery rock GazeTTe may 2013 33 The Polished Perspective Tom McNall Good Housekeeping Floor Restoration Consultant

you ask any of my resto- ration technicians what my number one pet peeve on a job is, they’ll tell you that it’s seeing spaghetti.

Now, considering we are in an industry that was perfected and promoted heavily by the Italians, you’d think that I was being a little unfair. That would be true if I was referring to a pasta dish, but on a job site, when I say spa- ghetti, it means cords and hoses all tangled up and all over the place. Nothing gets my Irish up on a job more than seeing unkempt messes that A) look unprofes- sional, B) create safety concerns, and C) look unprofessional. From that, you should see what is foremost in my mind when I show up on a job. My crews must look professional when working on a customer’s property. And I do not care if they are working in a lakeside mansion ers who try to roll the buckets over the cords or in a head office in a far corner of a basement which can damage electrical cords and can on a weekend when no one is around – they tip the bucket over as well, leading to possi- must always present a clean and safety-oriented ble water damage, electrocution and basically workspace. make you and/or your staff look like a bunch Now, understanding that on a stone resto- of monkeys seducing a football. All can be Above: One of my Master Stone Refinishers, Humberto Reveles, demonstrating proper cord man- ration job site we need water, electricity and prevented by keeping cords neat, straight and agement as his apprentice Julio looks on. vacuums, that means that there are at least 3 organized. separate cords or hoses to keep track of and to As well, tangled cords are a pain when Below: Spaghetti cords - Dangerous, and plain UNACCEPTABLE! keep neat. They usually come from at least two you are running several different electrical different locations and all require certain care machines and you blow a fuse. Needing to and considerations. switch outlets becomes a lesson in frustration Electrical cords that are all tangled up not when you cannot determine which fuse has only provide serious tripping hazards, but they blown and which one of the spider-webbed need to be kept away from water as well to mess of cords is which, not to mention the time prevent electrocution. If you have a wet floor wasted detangling them to switch to a new and a 220V connection that can “accidentally” outlet. be pulled or slide into a puddle, you could Water hoses require similar attention to detail. light yourself up like the Christmas tree at Kinks in the hose can slow down production Rockefeller Center in New York. and are even harder to get out if they are all tied Preventive care needs to be exercised so as up with electrical cords – not to mention being to plan ahead and get watertight connections or a serious electrical hazard. to buy/make a connection that cannot come in You also want to avoid a water hose bursting contact with water. because someone rolled the wheels of a heavy Another potential electrical and water hazard piece of equipment over it and sliced it. Again, scenario that anyone in the restoration business this can cause water damage to a customer’s should recognize is the humble mop bucket. home and business and in no way makes you When you are polishing stone, you need mop look professional. Neither will making the 6 buckets for laying out water to add polish o’clock news because you electrocuted some- compound, and for rinsing and cleaning up. A one if it sprays an electrical panel or a bypass jumble of cords means that you will be lifting connection that many so-called “professionals” on them, so if you are dragging them around a so they can “feel” for cords and hoses in their buckets over cords numerous times. utilize in this industry. corner, they act like a mild saw and can wear backward path instead of tripping on them. For what may seem to be such a small task, Vacuum hoses, while not as fatal as the first off paint, drywall and wallpaper. This in no way It’s the little things that make the difference, it is one where steady balance and firm footing two items, can make you look professional if makes you look professional. my friends, and when it comes to cord and hose is needed so as not to trip and spill the bucket. handled properly, as well. Because most resto- Personally, I prefer to keep all my hoses and management, an ounce of prevention is defi- Also, mop buckets are not usually ergonomi- ration techs, while polishing or grinding, will cords that hook up to our machines tied up nitely worth a pound of cure. cally designed to eliminate lower back strain work walking backwards (to avoid walking together with Velcro loops for the first 10-12 Until next month, keep your stick on the ice! in lifting. So if you have a young technician or in compounds and to easier navigate lippage), feet and run them between both legs so as to apprentice who is standing on a mess of cords having bulky vacuum hoses in your path and know where they are and keep them straight in Tom McNall is founder and owner of Great and needs to keep bending and lifting, bending out of your sight line can easily become a trip- my working area. Northern Stone, an Ontario-based stone clean- and lifting, you increase the chances of 1) a ping hazard as well. The last thing you want is From there, the Restoration Assistant or ing and restoration company servicing Ontario twisted ankle, from rolling off loose cords and for a restorer falling over backwards and the apprentice will always keep an eye on the lead and Chicago, IL. Tom also offers corporate 2) lower back problems because they are not handle of a 200+ pound machine going through restorer to make sure his path is clear of any and private consultations as well as speaking bending to lift the bucket properly or 3) both! the drywall. obstructions. My Lead Restorers are also taught at conventions. He can be reached at tom@ And of course, there will always be the work- Vacuum hoses are also made with ridges to do a type of shuffle as they move backwards greatnorthernstone.com.

Shop www.braxton-bragg.com for Stone & Tile industry products Visit www.slipperyrockgazette.net for more Stone & Tile industry news | 34 may 2013 slIppery rock GazeTTe Florim USA Introduces “The It’s Always Funny in P-A

Galaxy Tile Collection” northwestern Pennsylvania Shoot Off Your Finger to Spite the Ring The Look of Natural Stone for Both Commercial woman has been jailed on Police have charged a federal prison guard charges she tried to help with shooting his own finger in a drunken and Residential Projects an alleged robbery and bur- attempt to remove his wedding ring at his glary ring avoid detection — by telling northwestern Pennsylvania home. LORIM USA has introduced one of its accused members to remove a Online court records don’t list an attor- The Galaxy Tile Collection tattoo that says “Stick Up Kidz” from ney for 31-year-old Alfredo Malespini III, of to the North American mar- his arm. Bradford, who was wounded in the March 2 ketplace. incident. Online court records don’t list an attorney The Bradford Era reports police were called A rugged, through-color porcelain tile, that for 21-year-old Desirée Husband, of Erie, PA, to Malespini’s home and found him with a may be used as a “crossover material” for both who has been jailed pending a preliminary bloody finger, after which he told them he commercial and residential applications. Each hearing on charges including conspiracy to was “trying to get rid of his wedding ring” and tile is produced using High Definition Graphic tamper with physical evidence and obstruction decided to “shoot it off.” Police say the attempt of justice. (HDG) Technology, a state-of-the art inkjet badly mangled Malespini’s finger, but didn’t The Erie Times-News reports Husband remove the ring. process creating amazingly realistic visuals became the 15th person charged in connection Police say he was taken to an Erie hospi- which beautifully emulate the look of natural with the group which Erie police say operated tal for medical and mental health treatment. stone. a robbery and burglary ring out of a duplex on Online court records show he’s yet to be Offered in six unique colors, Nero, Nutmeg, the city’s crime-ravaged East Side. arraigned. Grigio, Hazelnut, Silver and Beige, the closer Stefano Rabaioli, Vice President of Sales & The group refers to itself as the “Stick Up Officials at the Federal Correctional people look at each tile, the more convinced Marketing, Florim USA. “When doing so, Kidz” or “S.U.K” and is allegedly responsible Institution – McKean couldn’t immediately they are of its realism to nature. All colors con- they’ll see a masterpiece quality re-creation for crimes in the city and its suburbs. comment on his employment status. sist of 20% recycled content, except for Nero of natural stone, with directional movement, Source: Erie Times-News, Source: The Bradford Era, which contains 40%. Sizes include 12˝x12˝, jagged veining and handsome earth-tone colors. http://www.goerie.com http://www.bradfordera.com 12˝x24˝ (which is available semi-polished They’ll also realize that because this is a highly ––––––––––––––––– ––––––––––––––––– for vertical application) 18˝x18˝ and 18˝x36˝. durable, porcelain tile product, it is much easier Making a Spectacle of Yourself No More Daddy’s Little Girl Complementary Galaxy trim pieces include to maintain than natural stone. In the long run, A woman has returned a pair of $2,000 eye- Pittsburgh police say a determined 6-year- a cove-base, also produced with HDG, that that translates into savings for the end-user.” glasses she stole from a Pittsburgh-area shop old girl didn’t hurt anyone when she crashed matches perfectly with all tile size formats. To find out more about Florim USA, visit after she made a spectacle of herself when her mother’s car while trying to drive across surveillance video of the heist was broadcast “We want everyone to look at these tiles their website www.florimusa.com or call town to visit her father. on the local TV news. Police haven’t released the name of the girl up close to see their realism firsthand,” stated 1-877-FLORIM-1. Brad Childs, vice president of the Eyetique whose mother was reportedly still sleeping in Penn Center, tells WPXI-TV that the woman when the girl took the woman’s car keys about called the store after the station broadcast the 9 a.m. one Sunday. Elegant Cloister Garden video of that night’s theft. Police Sgt. Jerry Parker tells reporters the The woman, who isn’t being identified and little girl is tall for her age, but adds: “How Completed At Vero Beach has not been charged by police, can be seen she knew how to operate a car, your guess is taking the glasses from a locked case while a as good as mine.” Community Church man distracted a sales clerk. Police say the girl hit two parked vehicles, Childs says the woman phoned him “after pushing one of them into a third, before hitting one strolls she saw herself on the news and asked me a utility pole. out of the what we could do.” Police and the girl’s father arrived to take her Police in Wilkins Township haven’t decided Fellowship home after the accident. whether the woman will be charged. Police are still investigating but haven’t said hall at the Source: WPXI-TV, http://www.wpxi.com if anyone will face charges. Community Church in Vero ––––––––––––––––– ––––––––––––––––– Beach, Florida, feeling the Lucky Number 13? Clogging in the Boys’ Room warm sun on their face and Police have charge a former maid with An eastern Pennsylvania high school says the enjoying the peaceful stealing 13 painkiller pills from Room 13 at vandalism forced it to create a policy in which tranquility of the Community a family-owned western Pennsylvania motel. toilet paper has been taken out of the boys’ Church’s inner courtyard, Online court records don’t list an attorney bathrooms. one can’t help but notice the for 34-year-old Adria Maceross, of Industry, Boys at Mahanoy Area High School now beautiful stone centerpiece of the ele- centerpiece, perfectly accenting the blue gran- who was charged by Beaver police with steal- must go to the school office to request toilet gant cloister garden. ite and green foliage of the vibrant garden. ing the drugs on March 1. paper and sign it out. Principal Thomas Smith In addition to the Azul Bahia and White Police say the owners of the Willows Inn says that’s helped solve a major problem of Once an old, uncomfortable brick-and-paver Kashmir, other stones used in this beautiful on Route 68 contacted them after guests com- intentionally clogging toilets that’s been going courtyard, the newly renovated cloister gar- design include Amber Gold, Royal Sable, plained about money and prescription drugs on for two years. den-updated when the church renovated their Iridium, Sierra White (all different types of being stolen from their rooms last month. Smith says boys must sign out the toi- So, Beaver police Chief Dan Madgar tells Fellowship Hall–now features a twenty-five granite), and Keota Valley limestone. let paper and then sign it back in. But the the Beaver County Times that police installed Republican-Herald of Pottsville reports some foot stone mosaic as the garden’s centerpiece. As the summer greenery shimmers with a camera, disguised as an alarm clock, on parents are protesting the policy. Comprised of a variety of different and sub- golden sunlight and the patterns of stone Feb. 13 in Room 13 to see who was behind Parent Karen Yedsena says some students tle stone hues intertwining with the predom- appear infinite in their intricacy, one can’t help the thefts. are too embarrassed to go to the office to get inant and majestic blue Azul Bahia granite, but pause and enjoy, even if just for a minute, On March 1, police say they saw Maceross toilet paper and are going home sick instead. the design element lends itself to the effect of the peaceful solitude of the new Community put a pill bottle in her pocket and say she later School officials say they aren’t aware of any soothing ocean waves. Around the edge of the Church courtyard. confessed to taking 13 pills in it that day. such problems. large medallion are benches, fountain caps, and For more information visit the Creative Edge Source: Beaver County Times, Source: Pottsville Republican and Herald, large planter boxes made of Kashmir White Master Shop website at www.cec-waterjet.com http://www.timesonline.com/ http://www.republicanherald.com marble, all enhancing and complementing the or call (888) 382-2112.

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Shop www.braxton-bragg.com for Cyclone Blades Visit www.slipperyrockgazette.net for more Stone & Tile industry news | 36 may 2013 slIppery rock GazeTTe iStone App Now Available for the iPhone A Stone Swatch Featuring Over a Thousand Stones from Around the World also Available for iPad

ARBLE Institute of America, the authori- tative source for natu- ral stone standards and education, and studiomarmo, the renowned Italian expert on natural stone graphic and web design, have announced the release of iStone, a natural stone swatch application originally designed for the iPad, for iPhone and iPod. The app is available in the Apple App Store.

iStone is presented in a beautifully ren- dered 3D environment and was designed to take advantage of the high resolu- tion screen and advanced capabilities of apple devices. The app presents images and technical information on over 1,000 natural stones from around the world, including a search function that allows the user to filter by stone type, color, country of origin and more. Also included is the President and CEO. “The best part about Natural Stone Gallery, or Stone Box will agree ability to view stones in 3D and bookmatched professionals will use the app as a replacement expanding the app to all 3 apple mobile devices that this is the next step in presenting that valu- format, as well as email capability to share for weighty and expensive sample stones or is that you only have to pay for the app once. able information about natural stone.” images with clients, colleagues or friends. documents. If you already purchased the app for your iPad, For more information on iStone, visit www. Designers and architects alike will find the “The iStone app for iPhone and iPod means you can now download it on the iPhone or istoneforios.com to learn more or download the array of colors and information useful in the that you will always have your stone swatch iPod for free!” Hieb concluded, “anyone that application. To order any of the printed stone specification of natural stone. Natural stone with you,” said Jim Hieb, MIA Executive Vice has utilized the MIA’s popular Stone Swatch, swatches, visit www.marblestore.org.

Shop www.braxton-bragg.com for Stone & Tile industry products Visit www.slipperyrockgazette.net for more Stone & Tile industry news | slIppery rock GazeTTe may 2013 37 NKBA Releases Updated New Stone Pro SR2 Vacuum Editions of its Bath Planning Support Rail System Offers and Kitchen Planning Books Better Suction, Flexibility

HE National Kitchen & teaching resources for instructors Bath Association (NKBA) Reviewed by an Association panel of experts, has announced the release the books were written by four leading industry of the newly updated sec- authorities: Kathleen Parrott, Ph.D., CKE; Julia ond editions of its authoritative Kitchen Beamish, Ph.D., CKE; JoAnn Emmel, Ph.D.; and Planning and Bath Planning textbooks, Mary Jo Peterson, CKD, CBD, CAPS, CAASH. first published in 2006. They were produced and published by John Wiley and Sons, Inc., the leading publisher of Available in both print and e-book formats, the interior design education. second editions have been thoroughly revised Support for Kitchen Planning and Bath with the latest information on topics such as sus- Planning came from the generosity of the follow- tainable and universal design, as well as metric ing sponsors: RAXTON-BRAGG offers the require manual pumping or simply do not measurement equivalents throughout for the ben- Bath Planning, Second Edition new Stone Pro SR2 Vacuum have the holding power that the SR2 Vacuum efit of professionals in Canada and elsewhere. In Platinum Plus Sponsor: Support Rail System, which Support Rail System musters. “You’ve got addition, the volumes have been redesigned with Moen delivers exponentially bet- twenty minutes to work,” Bussell said. “This all new photographs and illustrations in full color. Platinum Sponsor: ter suction and more flexibility than one holds the stone for up to eight hours.” The releases come as the NKBA celebrates TOTO competing systems. The system’s super-rigid rail is constructed of its 50th Anniversary of Leadership through Gold Sponsors: extruded aluminum. It will not allow the stone Learning. Delta Faucet Co. Using technology originally developed for to bow. The suction cup assembly also offers “For a half a century, the NKBA has stayed Dornbracht CNC machines as a jumping off point, SR2 definite advantages over other systems, Bussell true to its mission of educating the leading pro- Kitchen Planning, Second Edition Vacuum Support Rail System gives fabricators said. “The suction cups have foam rings around fessionals in the industry,” says John Morgan, Platinum Sponsors: far more options for handling stone than the them,” he said. “It allows it to suction to porous 2013 NKBA President. “Our new Kitchen Fisher & Paykel and DCS by Fisher & alternatives. There is no other product that can materials. The suction cups can also be adjusted Planning and Bath Planning books, each almost Paykel vacuum to stone that has a textured surface. The to any section of the stone. Just simply slide it 500 pages, represent current best practices based Jenn-Air system also works great on polished stone sur- into place where it’s needed.” on the latest industry research.” MASCO - KraftMaid / Merillat / faces as well, Product Manager Steve Bussell All in all, the SR2 Vacuum Support Rail Kitchen Planning and Bath Planning serve as Quality Cabinets / DeNova Franke said. “They’ve used technology designed to System provides more value to the fabricator essential references for seasoned professionals as Gold Sponsors: grip stone. It takes it a step higher in the for its price than competing systems, Bussell well as students, containing everything they need Dornbracht strength of the product.” said. to know to design convenient, functional and KWC Here are some of the advantages of the “I’m not aware of any other product with a efficient kitchens and baths that meet the needs The second editions, priced at $95, can be SR2 Vacuum Support Rail System: suction cup assembly like this,” he said. “We’re of today’s lifestyles. Along with the other vol- purchased at NKBA.org, Wiley.com, Amazon. Each SR2 has four adjustable suction cups excited about the product.” umes in the Association’s Professional Resource com, barnesandnoble.com and other retailers connected in a series and is powered by one For additional information on these products, Library, they are the basis for certification. nationwide, and will also be available in the KBIS power unit in the base cup contact the sales reps at Braxton-Bragg. Call Special features of the new editions include: 2013 bookstore in New Orleans this year. NKBA Each suction cup can be independently toll free, 1-800-575-4401. New and expanded information on universal members receive discount pricing when ordering positioned by simply sliding laterally Braxton-Bragg offers a full range of fabrica- design and sustainable design at NKBA.org or KBIS. The design allows to vacuum textured and tion tooling and installation accessories includ- The 2012 edition of the NKBA Planning The mission of the NKBA is to enhance mem- polished surfaces with no problem ing sinks, installation hardware, and every tool Guidelines with Access Standards and ber success and excellence, promote profession- Utilizes an integrated alkaline 12-volt power and piece of equipment needed to run a profes- up-to-date applications of the 2012 alism and ethical business practices, and provide supply, maximizing longer running times sional stone, tile, and polished concrete shop. International Residential Code® leadership and direction for the kitchen and bath Equipped with an easy access relief valve for For more information about Braxton-Bragg New information about storage, cabinet industry worldwide. For more information, visit quick evacuation and removal and its publications and products, contact them construction, and specifying cabinets the NKBA Press Room or call 1-800-THE- Lightweight and durable design toll-free at 800-575-4401 or visit the website Metric measurement equivalents throughout NKBA (843-6522). www.braxton-bragg.com for current sales and A companion website with forms and Many competing suction cup assemblies new products.

Shop www.braxton-bragg.com for Stone Pro SR2 Visit www.slipperyrockgazette.net for more Stone & Tile industry news | 38 may 2013 slIppery rock GazeTTe Continued from page 15 MIA Member Company: MUSEUMS may be rooted in time, but growth calls for Polycor AWARD OF MeRit contemporary transitions. In 1999, New York-based firm Quebec, Canada Restoration/Renovation Rafael Vinoly Architects took on the challenge to expand Stone Supplier, Stone Fabricator Cleveland Museum of Art and renovate the Cleveland Museum of Art, while keeping Other Project Team Members: Cleveland, Ohio in mind the historic significance of the museum’s existing Rafael Vinoly Architects design. Architect/Designer A strict adherence to the team’s preservation goals result- Cleveland Marble Mosaic Co. ed in Polycor providing the building’s original marble, (MIA Member Company) White Cherokee, from its quarry in Tate, Georgia. Once Stone Installer quarried, the fabrication and finishing of pieces required Sasaki Associates acute attention to detail to maintain the integrity of the orig- Exterior Plaza Designers inal design, including following the original specifications Panzica Construction Company of the project from 1916. General Contractor The team relied on existing structures, in addition to the building’s original drawings and photographs from that Stone: era, to ensure accuracy in recreating molding and intricate White Cherokee Marble details through the project. Newton Brown Granite Central to the expansion proj- ect was the use of original materials specified in 1916. White Cherokee was therefore comple- mented by Newton Brown granite from Quebec, Canada. The final product is considered to be the largest cultural proj- ect in all of Ohio.

THE design of the living room in this resi- MIA Member Company: AWARD OF MeRit dence continues the non-orthogonal concept of Stone and Roses International Co. Ltd. Residential Interior/Exterior the external architecture. The facets enhance Samutprakam, Thailand the modernity and underline the light beams Krungthep Kreetha Residence Stone Supplier, Stone Fabricator entering the room from the south west side. Bangkok, Thailand Stone Installer The stone color reacts and contrasts in relation Other Project Team Members: to the angle and orientation to the main natural Silom Furniture Co. Ltd. light source in an array of hues of greys, greens Client and blues. The continuation of the stone pattern General Contractor from the outside to the inside emphasizes the Interior Architects 49 Limited flow of the light. Architect Stones and Roses International (SRI) started this challenging piece of work from a general Stone: elevation. The first step consisted in building a Blue Grey Slate 3d model in particle board. Then SRI followed through with the 3d Auto- CAD drawing of the stone wall. Folding the stone along the facets involved the drawing of more than 40 sections which were later assembled at precise angles. The last step consisted in calculating the size and angle of each slab for production. SRI also designed and manufactured the steel struc- ture which was erected par- allel and recessed from the stone wall in order to receive the dry fixing anchors for the installation of the stone slabs. Continued on page 39

Shop www.braxton-bragg.com for Stone & Tile industry products Visit www.slipperyrockgazette.net for more Stone & Tile industry news | slIppery rock GazeTTe may 2013 39 MIA Member Company: Titan Stone, LLC Pompano Beach, Florida SpeciAl AWARD OF MeRit Stone Contractor Craftsmanship Other Project Team Members: The Annunciation at Ave Maria University Marton Varo Ave Maria, Florida Annunciation Sculptor Ave Maria University General Contractor Curtain Wall Design & Consulting (CDC) (MIA Member Company) Stone Façade Engineering and Design

Stone: Carrara Marble

AVE Maria University staged a world-wide com- petition to solicit a work of art for the main entry niche of its existing stone-clad Oratory. Sculptor Marton Varo submitted a design of the Annunciation of the Blessed Virgin Mary to a traditional crane configuration to hoist the be carved from White Carrara Marble quarried sculpture. As such, Titan Stone and CDC from the still-active Cave Michelangelo, from devised a counter-balanced beam trolley pro- which the marble for St. Peter’s famous Pieta jecting from below the end of the crane outward was extracted. so that the 7 feet wide by 7-1/2 feet tall pieces To create this sculpture, Varo required over once hoisted to level could then be moved 120 tons of raw Carrara Marble blocks, which horizontally into place under the overhanging he selected from the quarry himself. stone. The configuration of the existing façade sur- Titan was also forced to provide a great deal round, projecting well beyond the face of the of perimeter field cutting to achieve proper Oratory substrate, made it impossible to utilize alignment within these difficult constraints.

THE Rachel Ann Perkinson Center is a two story, 15,000 sq. ft. expansion of MDA’s national MIA Member Company: headquarters building and was built to the highest Las Vegas Rock Inc. SpeciAl AWARD OF MeRit standards of “green” design and energy efficiency. Jean, Nevada Sustainability It was designed to fit into its natural desert Stone Supplier, Stone Fabricator MDA Expansion surroundings and complement, rather than mimic, Other Project Team Members: Tucson, Arizona the bold architecture of the original building. The Carpenter Sellars ® LEED project achieved Gold-level certification. Architect/Designer The exterior and interior include polished des- Sundt ert stone cladding. The stone acted as a unifying General Contractor element between the natural surroundings and the Muscular Dystrophy Association architecture of the building. The natural stone was Client a large contributor to the LEED Gold Certification. Diversified The use of this indigenous resource and its prox- Stone Installer imity of 500 miles to the job site reduced the envi- Stone: ronmental implications which typically result from Meta-Quartzite the transportation involved on a project. Las Vegas Rock is the only Silver Cradle-to- Cradle natural stone in the world. There is zero waste in production – 100% of the Las Vegas Rock byproduct is re-purposed. These attributes along with the cradle-to-cradle certifi- cation allowed for another point in the LEED rating system for the Innovation in Design Credit.

Continued on page 42

Shop www.braxton-bragg.com for Stone & Tile industry products Visit www.slipperyrockgazette.net for more Stone & Tile industry news | 40 may 2013 slIppery rock GazeTTe New Crayola Glass Tile Collection Features 99% Recycled, Colorful Material

Gnome Sweet Gnome

HE Crayola Glass Tile the exposition. Collection was showcased at “Crayola is a wonderful, well-respected Coverings 2013 in Atlanta American brand-name,” stated Paul J. Young, April 29 - May 2 with more CEO of Surfaces, Inc. “It’s a name associat- shapes, colors and revenue-building ed with beautiful colors, creativity… and of opportunities that one could shoot a course, with children. When one associates water-gun at! the word ‘kids’ with ‘creative colors,’ it’s a safe bet that the word ‘Crayola’ will pop up as The new Crayola Recycled Collection con- well. And, we’re taking this “green” collection MALL paintings of gnomes paintings sparked an outpouring of support sists 36 solid colors in two finishes and nine to a new level by offering a myriad of unique, that have popped up on from residents who said the gnomes add special blends. Approved for both floor and business-building opportunities for progressive utility poles have become character to the city. wall use in commercial as well as residential tile marketers across the country.” a community sensation PG&E spokesman Jason King planned applications, this new series is produced using “Our partnership with Surfaces allows in Oakland, prompting Pacific Gas & to meet with the artist, who requested to SCS certified 99% recycled glass, which makes us to bring Crayola colors into homes in a Electric Co. to say that it will keep remain anonymous, and a member of the all products ideal for any LEED project. These unique way by bringing fun and creativity to them in place for now. City Council. The utility hopes to eventually will be exhibited at Coverings along with the kids’ spaces,” said Crayola Vice President relocate the gnome paintings from the poles original Crayola Glass Tile Collection, which of Licensing Warren Schorr. “The colors are The hand-painted portraits on 6-inch to other spots in the same neighborhoods. debuted last year, that includes 42 solid col- vibrant and the shapes are playful and fun.” blocks of wood began going up last year “We’ve received a lot of feedback from ors, 18 blends and 6 special shaped (puzzle) The Crayola Glass Tile Collection colors in an apparent effort to brighten up the residents who love the gnomes,” King told mosaics. reflect the brilliant hues that characterize blue-collar California city. There are cur- The Associated Press. “We’re looking for Miami-based Surfaces, Inc., one of the Crayola crayons, and include Fire Engine Red, rently more than 2,000 of the images on util- solutions. We’ll keep them where people can nation’s premier producers and suppliers of Taxi Cab Yellow, Deep Sea Blue, North Pole ity poles, with many screwed to the bases. enjoy them.” glass tile in conjunction with Crayola, LLC, White and more. All of this series is stocked in The gnomes have red hats, white beards King said PG&E did not want to encourage the Easton, Pennsylvania-based brand known the US ready for timely distribution. and brown shoes. Some of the images con- such installations, explaining a proliferation for its iconic art tools that inspire kids’ creative For more information, please contact Nauro tain a mushroom. of such images could cause damage or make expression, which has 99% name recognition Rezende at Surfaces, Inc. nrezende@surfaces. Word that PG&E planned to remove the it difficult for crews to access the poles. in U.S. consumer households, will be bringing net 305-372-9787 or visit the website www. this colorful All-American glass tile range to surfaces.net.

Shop www.braxton-bragg.com for Fabricator’s Friend products Visit www.slipperyrockgazette.net for more Stone & Tile industry news | slIppery rock GazeTTe may 2013 41 Putting It All Into Words Ida Mae Nowes Auntie Mae’s Various Ramblings on Life in a Small Town Nubbins Special Correspondent

HEN I first started tutor- to this crazy world we all find ourselves in, and stop. I didn’t want to go overboard in front of ing my neighbor Johnny growing into the adult he’s soon to be. He has him, for heaven’s sake – he might never come Mac in reading and writ- no idea what a gift this is to me. back! He smiled at me and gave me a quick hug, ing, he was in fifth grade. But the time has come to let this ritual go. saying, “Thanks, Aunt Ida Mae,” and went on Now he’s in eighth grade and as tall as Johnny Mac knows how my life has changed his way with Mae. a sapling with glasses, and braces on his now that my husband Merl and I are taking care So, that’s that, I thought to myself with a sigh, teeth. of Merl’s mother, Floreen. And Johnny Mac’s but it turns out there was a little bit more. life is changing too. He’ll be going to high This morning I found on my doorstep a hand- His language skills have greatly improved school next year and doesn’t need a tutor any made card from Johnny Mac with a note written during the years we’ve been getting together, more. Last week was our last “formal” tutoring in his still little-boyish handwriting: Thank you and he doesn’t really need my input any more. session. for all the time you’ve spent with me Aunt Ida But amazingly, he still comes by once in a while “Johnny Mac, you’ve grown into an excellent Mae. You are AWESOME!!! Love, Johnny so we can read together, eat cookies, and talk reader and writer, and I’m so very proud of Mac. about whatever is on our minds. you,” I told him. “But you don’t need an old Underneath the card was a booklet of his own He also still lets me read his journal from lady like me tutoring you any more. I’m pretty writings typed on the computer and stapled time to time. The first day I tutored Johnny Mac sure I’m going to be reading one of your books together on the side. On the front it said “THE those years ago, I gave him a journal and asked one of these days, and you’re going to be telling WRITINGS OF JOHNNY MAC” and inside him to write in it everyday. I told him he could me a thing or two.” were several of the stories and poems he had write anything he wanted, but to remember that He blushed and said, “Oh, I don’t know about shared with me over the years, plus a few new I would be reading it. I made a promise to him that,” but he seemed pleased. Then I gave him ones. I thought back to the little boy who could that I wouldn’t share any of the information in her “Mae” after me, I might add). Mae comes to a gift of two of my favorite books, To Kill a barely write a sentence when he first began vis- the journal. I’ll be the first to admit that promise our get-togethers too. Mockingbird and Tom Sawyer, and he seemed iting me, and I felt amazed at how life unfolds has been mighty hard to keep at times! Johnny Mac no longer writes daily snippets of touched. – always, always differently than we imagine He took to writing like a duck to water. In his life – or at least, not that he lets me see. But “Now, you know, Johnny Mac,” I said as we it’s going to. the beginning he wrote a lot about what he saw he does let me read his school essays and cre- got ready to part. “You’re welcome to come by Then I noticed the dedication on the first page: going on in the neighborhood and about his con- ative writing ventures like stories and even poet- here at any time for any reason – to share what “This book is dedicated to Ms. Aunt Ida Mae stant wish for a dog. I’m happy to report that this ry. A lot of it refers to science fiction characters you’re writing or just to visit. You know I’d love Nowes, who taught me to love words.” particular wish came true a year or so ago when or rock bands I’ve never heard of, but I still hear that, don’t you?” All of a sudden I felt as if I was If you think I wasn’t boo-hooing into my han- he and I rescued a dog that had been hit by a car. Johnny Mac’s voice in there. What a thrill it is to going to burst out crying, and that took me by kie after reading that, you’ve got another thing Johnny Mac ended up keeping her (and naming peek inside the mind of a young man responding surprise. But I swallowed hard and made myself coming. In the end, tears will have the last word. Fab King Training Offered at Braxton-Bragg June 19-20, 2013

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Shop www.braxton-bragg.com for Fab King Training Visit www.slipperyrockgazette.net for more Stone & Tile industry news | 42 may 2013 slIppery rock GazeTTe Continued from page 39 MIA Member Company: M&G Contracts was tasked to fabricate and M&G CONTRACTS (S) PTE LTD AWARD OF MeRit supply Travertino Chiaro from Italy for the feature Singapore Commercial Interior wall of this prominent project. The stones were Stone Supplier, Stone Fabricator carried along a continuous layout from the main Ocean Financial Centre lift lobby interior to the external walls, measuring Other Project Team Members: Singapore 50 ft. high with a combined length of more than Ocean Properties LLP 656 feet. Client The challenge was to follow the design intent Pelli Clarke Pelli Architects of having vein-cut travertine presented in a con- Design Architect tinuous and seamless manner, so that it appears Architects 61 as though the walls were carved out directly from Local Architect the quarry. Stone: Blocks were pre-selected and inspected at the Travertino Chiaro quarry to ensure that the size, color and veining (Light Classico Travertine) were suitable for the project. Fabrication was thor- oughly planned, with each bundle of slabs from individual blocks marked and assigned to a specific ‘layer’ of each elevation according to their veining character, before further process- ing in a slab-matched sequence to ensure the continuous flow of the veins. Finally, all the cut panels for each elevation were dry laid for approv- al, adjusted as required, and marked accordingly for installation.

ALL 32 stories of the El Paso Energy MIA Member Company: Building received a renovation while the build- AWARD OF MeRit Camarata Masonry Systems, Ltd. ing remained fully occupied. A major feature of Commercial Interior Houston, Texas the redesign is the hanging radius glass walls Stone Contractor El Paso Energy Building that stretched over two floors surrounded by Houston, Texas Other Project Team Members: Callacatta Gold marble on the inside and Impala Epec Realty, Inc. Black granite and Victorian White granite at the Owner basement level and exterior. Gensler Architects CMS was responsible for the installation of Architect 13,000 sq. ft. of flamed Sunset Red granite Gilbane Building Company floors, 28,000 sq. ft. of flamed Victoria White General Contractor/Client granite floors and 2,000 sq. ft. of flamed Impala Savema Black granite floors. Cold Spring Granite Company The 1st and 2nd floors consisted of 22,000 (MIA Member Company) sq. ft. of polished Calacatta Gold marble, 1,000 Stone Fabricators sq. ft. of polished Impala Black granite and 100 sq. ft. of polished Victoria White granite. The Stone: sub-basement and the tunnel area consisted of Sunset Red Granite, Victoria White Granite, 17,500 sq. ft. of granite. Black Granite, Calacatta Gold Marble, CMS was also responsible for the procure- Impala Black Granite ment and installation of 8,000 sq. ft. of quar- ry floor tile, 40,000 sq. ft. of white glazed wall tile, 2,000 sq. ft. of grey porcelain floor tile, 1,000 sq. ft. of glass tile and 337 lavatory tops.

Shop www.braxton-bragg.com for Stone & Tile industry products Visit www.slipperyrockgazette.net for more Stone & Tile industry news | slIppery rock GazeTTe may 2013 43 Now You Can Repair and Restore a granite Countertop Surface to Its Original Luster! Steve’s Polishing Pro System PS SP

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Have you ever damaged a No existing polishing pad or twist lock system This system is not merely a “top-coat” finish. Countertop during inStallation? can completely repair or bring back stone to its Many of the products on the market today Steve Anneker, a west coast fabricator with original luster. Steve did not give up, and after 10 are nothing more than a surface shine—a more than 20 years experience, did and years of perfecting the process, Steve’s Polishing temporary finish that needs to be re-applied that’s what led him to invent Steve’s Polish- Pro System was brought to market and is now like waxing your floor or car. ing Pro System. A blade carelessly dragged available from Braxton-Bragg. across the surface of a very expensive gran- If you are a stone professional, you know how ite countertop ruined the profitability of a job Seeing iS believing! costly a scratch on a granite countertop can and drove Steve to find a solution. Steve’s Polishing Pro System was demon- be. Using Steve’s Polishing Pro System, along strated at the 2011 Coverings in Las Vegas. with diamond polishing pads, you can elimi- Visit www.braxton-bragg.com for a complete nate unsightly scratches and restore the gran- video demonstration of how Steve’s Polishing ite back to a brilliant, factory shine! “I can’t imagine better customer Pro System works. You owe it to yourSelF to service and promptness from find out! no special tools needed. Just use Call us today and ask about a company. Braxton-Bragg is your own variable speed grinder/polisher. our 2-day top polishing Class! outstanding. Your pads and compounds work flawlessly.” Call Now–Sale Ends May 31, 2013 Item # Description Reg. Price Sale Price Greg Great Barrier Coatings 57001 Steve’s Polishing Pro Systems Total Restoration Kit $385.00 $347.00 Paso Robles, CA 57010 Steve’s Polishing Pro Systems Eng. Stone Restoration Kit $319.95 $287.95

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Shop www.braxton-bragg.com for Steve’s Polishing Pro Systems Visit www.slipperyrockgazette.net for more Stone & Tile industry news | 44 may 2013 slIppery rock GazeTTe Husqvarna GM 3000 Grout and Concrete Hole Filler Now at Braxton-Bragg

HEN it comes to polished concrete, the perfect result requires a perfect foundation, and Braxton- Bragg is now giving fabricators an eco- nomical solution to material flaws.

Braxton-Bragg now offers Husqvarna GM 3000 Grout and Concrete Hole Filler, the perfect solution for imperfect conditions when attempting to polish concrete. The new product was thoroughly tested during the most recent Braxton-Bragg/WerkMaster Training Seminar in March. Concrete can hold unseen flaws and imperfec- tions lurking just below the surface. Craftsmen may have done the best job they could during the pouring, but not everyone plans for chang- ing technology and the desires of customers. When applied, the filler binds with the For instance, if a customer wishes that that powdered concrete produced by the grinding, previously poured concrete be polished, the Bussell said. “Now you can really polish it. It’s material itself may work against perfect results, hard. There are no voids. All of those are filled. Product Manager Steve Bussell said. You’ve got an ideal surface to polish. “They didn’t count on somebody grinding off “This lets you take that imperfect floor and the top,” Bussell said. “As you are preparing gives you the best start you can possibly have.” the concrete for polishing and grinding it down, For additional information on these products, you can actually expose a lot of pores and pits. contact the sales reps at Braxton-Bragg. Call You have all these voids in it,” he said. “What toll free, 1-800-575-4401. you need is a way to fill those voids and make Braxton-Bragg offers a full range of fabrica- it an even surface.” tion tooling and installation accessories includ- Not Your Average Restore Job GM 3000 is specifically formulated for ing sinks, installation hardware, and every tool re-grouting and hole-filling in concrete surfac- and piece of equipment needed to run a profes- VERYONE who’s had a fend- es. It is effective for patching and filling small sional stone, tile, and polished concrete shop. er bender knows the cost of air pockets, pin holes, and aggregate pop-outs For more information about Braxton-Bragg repairs is going up. But few when polishing concrete floors. Using this and its publications and products, contact them cars can be as costly to fix as product during concrete floor grinding will toll-free at 800-575-4401 or visit the website “Mr. Bean” actor Rowan Atkinson’s rare ensure a more uniform surfce and za higher www.braxton-bragg.com for current sales and McLaren F1. gloss meter reading, Bussell said. new products. It took more than a year — and more than 900,000 pounds ($1.4 million) — to get his The unusual repair job, thought to involve supercar up and running after a 2011 crash one of the largest car insurance settlements in that left Atkinson with a badly damaged British history, is extensively documented in Noble Company Announces shoulder. Classic & Sports Car magazine, with a pic- The high-performance car makes extensive ture of the burgundy McLaren on the cover. New Thin-Bed Drain use of carbon fiber and needed specialist care Atkinson, last seen by many playing piano — it took weeks just to get a proper insurance as Mr. Bean during the opening ceremony OBLE Company has estimate. of the London Olympics, told the magazine introduced the “Thin- Ben Stagg, specialty insurer with RK he believes supercars should be used, not Bed Drain.” Noble Harrison, said the quality components used sequestered in garages. Company’s new drain to make an F1 are one reason the repair costs “It depresses me when great cars are hidden is not the only drain designed for were so high. away,” he said. “It’s a crime not to use it.” top mounted applications. “All modern supercars are predominantly Magazine editor Alastair Clements said carbon fiber — most Lamborghinis, most Atkinson should be applauded. However, it is the only one with a Ferraris — and the smallest ding in carbon “He let us do the story because he wanted clamping collar to ensure a watertight fiber is a big repair job,” he said. “And part other enthusiasts to know that he loves it, that connection between a NobleSeal® sheet of the engine bay is gold, that’s the best he isn’t just some celebrity with an expensive membrane and the drain. The clamping heat conductor. It’s the materials they used car, that he’s owned it for 15 years and loved collar and drain flange are made from durable (brushed golden nickel, brushed stainless, and compared to everyday cars that make it so it for 15 years,” he said. “He’s put it back stainless steel. chrome). expensive.” exactly as it was. He’s a bit of a hero. It’s He said many owners baby their expensive much more than the value.” Thin-Bed Drains are ideal for barrier free Save time and ensure watertight installations cars, driving them only a few times a year Of course, the value is there — Stagg said applications because of their extremely low with Thin-Bed Drains. For more information, in perfect weather conditions, but Atkinson the last used McLaren F1 sold on the open profile. Water flows into the top of the drain, contact your Noble Representative; call 800- actually drives his McLaren extensively. market went for about 3.5 million pounds. and there is no need for weep holes. Available 878-5788, or visit their website at www.noble- with square or round strainers in three finishes company.com.

Shop www.braxton-bragg.com for SKM products Visit www.slipperyrockgazette.net for more Stone & Tile industry news | slIppery rock GazeTTe may 2013 45 Continued from page 3 Life is Funny Jack Seiders taught Scott to surround himself On Scott’s first year serving on the board of with young, motivated individuals to inspire him the MIA, he was involved in the search for an to always work smart and look for opportunities. Executive Vice President / CEO for the orga- ™ Another mentor is Gary Distlehorst (recently nization. They interviewed several candidates UltRAseal retired Executive Vice President & CEO of the and Gary Distlehorst stood out by far, and was MIA) whose comportment, positive outlook on awarded the position. life, always looking for the good in people, was Flash forward five years and Scott was then a really good example for Scott. Gary is also an serving as President of the MIA and had to individual who was always focused on having do the annual review of Gary’s performance. goals and a plan to achieve them. Because of Gary’s dynamic personality, his way Best Advice of carrying himself and also mentoring Scott Scott’s best advice for our readers is for the over the last five years, Scott had this to say: New! younger generation of stone workers to develop “It was the most bizarre thing I’ve ever had to an appreciation for the nobility of the work that do – it was like giving my dad a review on his we do. He further encourages newcomers to the being a father.” industry to study the history and understanding The stone industry is very fortunate to have of stone use in building, and how humanity has such a caring, wise, and vibrant individual as been honored with (and in) stone over the mil- Scott Lardner, who volunteers his time for those lenniums, and how this stands as a testament to in it by serving on the board of directors of the stone’s durability. MIA, teaching at StonExpo, and who is always Scott has always encouraged people in his area willing to help new ones in the business to who venture into the stone business to focus on prosper. But perhaps this is not too surprising, doing good, high-quality work and to never give considering he also runs a large, family-oriented it away. There will always be those who are in business. a race to the bottom, but those who do so will always (and shortly) end up out of business. Tom McNall is founder and owner of Great A beautiful quote that Scott shared with me Northern Stone, an Ontario-based stone clean- was, “The difference between ‘the way’ and a ing and restoration company servicing Ontario short cut is that if the short cut was truly better, and Chicago, IL. Tom also offers corporate then it would be ‘the way’.” What is sometimes and private consultations as well as speaking at perceived as a shortcut, most often ends up cost- conventions. He can be reached at tom@great- ing more money or time in the long run. northernstone.com.

Do You Know a Rock Star? Do you know of any outstanding individual(s) in the stone industry that should be interviewed for our Rock Star column? Please send us an email ([email protected]) and tell us who they are and why they should be featured. UltraSeal is a 24-Hour Acid Protection Penetrating Sealer Loyalty to the Max for Marble, Travertine, and Concrete

OGS are called man’s Osmar said that his dog saw the blood best friend, but a dog in and went mad. He leaped up and attacked Provides stain protection against water, Garibaldi, Brazil named the men, causing one to run away. Max oil and acid-based substances. Max proved had saved his owner’s life that in a dramatic way by fighting off one would-be by saving his owner, truck thief, but he was not U.V. stable. Easy to apply. Non-invasive odor. Osmar, from carjackers, done yet. Max then got ahold and getting shot in the of the other one, who shot process. Max. Water-based penetrating sealer. Max was shot several times Osmar had just parked both in the chest and in his his truck in the field that front leg. The man finally ran he and Max always came off, leaving Max bleeding and to for play sessions and hurt. Thankfully, Osmar was was getting out of the truck able to get Max to a veteri- Item # Description Everyday LOW Price when two men with guns narian’s office close by and 23170 WerkMaster™ UltraSeal, Quart $71.70 rushed up and demanded they were able to save his life. his truck keys. Max had to wear a cast on his 23171 WerkMaster™ UltraSeal, Gallon $186.90 broken leg, but is expected to Osmar tried to resist and 23172 WerkMaster™ UltraSeal, 5 Gallon $726.60 fight the men, but they recover fully. started shooting and grazed True love made Max jump him on his forehead, causing a bloody, but into the path of the bullets, says Osmar. He not fatal, head wound. However, Max took says that Max definitely saved his life and 800-575-4401 offense to this attack on his master and that he knows without him that he would be leaped into action to protect him. dead. Max, says Osmar, is a true hero. BETTER! FASTER! CHEAPER!

Shop www.braxton-bragg.com for UltraSeal Visit www.slipperyrockgazette.net for more Stone & Tile industry news | 46 may 2013 slIppery rock GazeTTe NKBA Reveals the Top Industry Trends for 2013

Warm-colored marble, natural granite tones, a maple vanity, and an open airy shower and drying area are at the heart of the well-composed welcoming space of this in-home luxury spa. With towels and shampoo close at hand and a bench outside the shower that provides a convenient spot to towel off, the client is sure to feel pampered in the new bathroom. A cabinet, shelf space, and a vanity con- taining drawers combine to provide stylish storage, while a frameless glass shower with light-hued marble tile and flooring gives an expansive appearance to a somewhat limited space. Designer: John Sylvestre, CKD; Photo ©Karen Melvin Photography

This stand-out space exudes confidence and commitment to personalized self-expression. The stove splash is an artful representation of a bold calla-lily, setting a fun and whimsical tone for this enter- tainment-friendly kitchen. A unique red crystal chandelier, rounded glass countertop, red range and cabinet introduce a sense of panache, complimented by the subtler stainless and white quartz counters and dark wood flooring. The design plants a bold artistic statement in the mind of visitors to the home while the flowing glass countertop, which also couches a stainless steel sink for the guest eating counter, looks as if it’s ready to water the flower elements of the room. Designer: Elina Katsioula-Beall, CKD; Photo by Suki Medencevic

HE National Kitchen & While the use of quartz finishes was in slight Bath Association (NKBA) has decline last year, it has regained ground as a released the top 10 kitchen trendsetter in 2013, coming a close second to and bath design trends to perennial favorite granite. watch for in 2013. No growth in consumer outlays: Homeowners A lush kitchen was created through the pairing of sophisticated materials and organic lines. A were spending more on their kitchen and bath cracked glass bar top, glass pebble backsplash, bamboo cabinetry and a large solarium window to The NKBA’s annual design trends survey wit- remodels a year ago – however, the latest report allow natural light and a view of the backyard, are just a few ways the designer wove this complex nessed participation from over 300 member-de- reveals a slightly less robust situation. The total space. Rounded lines further contribute to the overall effect. The clients’ love of nature extends signers from the United States and Canada, cost of the average kitchen and of the average beyond just the look of the kitchen with the choice of bamboo as a readily renewable resource and who reported the materials, product types, and bath design in 2012 was $51,050 and $18,575, Energy Star Appliances and LED and halogen lighting topping the “must have” list. Taking their green sensibilities a step further, the pre-existing cabinetry and countertops were salvaged to use design styles they specified over the final three respectively, but the most recent figures have in their cottage while the appliances were donated to charity or given to friends meaning little went months of 2012. dipped to $47,308 in kitchens, while staying to waste. “As members of the NKBA, the kitchen and steady at $18,538 in bathrooms. Designer: Glen Prairie, CKD, Celeste Pilon; Photo by Barrer Photography bath industry’s foremost professional associa- Although some trends from the past year con- tion, our designers demonstrate comprehensive tinue to grow significantly into 2013, the last knowledge in kitchen and bath design,” says three months of 2012 have also laid the ground- 2013 NKBA President John Morgan. “They work for new ones to thrive. Some of the other excel in evaluating homeowners’ specific needs top trending design components include white and creating designs that inspire. It will be inter- painted cabinetry, glass backsplashes, LED esting to discover the trends that emerge from lighting, touch-activated faucets and satin-nickel the rich experience of these creative, talented finishes in kitchens; and ceramic/porcelain tiles individuals.” and undermount sinks in bathrooms. Among the overall trends identified for this You can download the full 2013 NKBA year, the most significant that surfaced for both Kitchen and Bath Style Report here: http://www. kitchens and baths are as follows: nkba.org/PressRelease/2013_NKBA_Kitchen_ Gray color schemes in both kitchens and and_Bath_Style_Report.pdf baths have witnessed a dramatic escalation Celebrating its 50th Anniversary this year, since 2010, particularly over the past year. Used the NKBA is a not-for-profit trade association Some of the sustainable design solutions that the designer incorporated, with the clients’ approval currently in 55% of kitchens and 56% of bath- that owns the Kitchen & Bath Industry Show are: LEED Certified Cabinetry with No VOC finish and no added formaldehyde cabinetry, a recycled rooms, shades of gray are growing in appeal, (KBIS®). With nearly 60,000 members, the glass backsplash, all GE Monogram Energy Star-rated appliances, a whole house lighting system, and recycled Redwood countertops. A PEX Plumbing system, which allows for the addition of a grey creating chic, sophisticated spaces that many NKBA has educated and led the kitchen and water recovery system, was also part of the whole house plan for sustainability. To accommodate the consumers desire. bath industry since its founding in 1963. For lifestyle of this active and two-cook family, a large island with seating that adds to the dining area Continuing an important trend from last more information, visit the NKBA Press Room was incorporated. In addition, separate cooking and cleaning zones were designed into the space to year, transitional-style kitchens and baths have or call 1-800-THE-NKBA (843-6522). KBIS and allow for both adults, as well as three children to comfortably reside there during various meals and clearly surpassed traditional styles, a longstand- NKBA are registered trademarks of The National as a comfortable space during the day and evening. ing favorite until 2012. Kitchen and Bath Association. Designer: Jessica Williamson, AKBD; Photo © Michael Lee Photography

Shop www.braxton-bragg.com for Stone & Tile industry products Visit www.slipperyrockgazette.net for more Stone & Tile industry news | slIppery rock GazeTTe may 2013 47 Sink Prices Haven’t SUNK This Low Since The Last Recession! Designer UnDermoUnt Vanity sink

Braxton-Bragg offers beautiful, triple-glazed, Vallé™ Vitreous Porcelain Sinks suitable for contemporary ™ or traditional decor. Vallé Sinks are available in the ™ Porcelain most popular sizes, designs and colors. This Vallé sink fits the opening Vallé™ Sinks feature a finish that will remain 50% for Kohler 2210 sinks more durable and beautiful for years. Since it’s easy to maintain and clean, there are less call backs and customer complaints. They also come with a lifetime warranty. Comparable models: Kohler Caxton 2210, American Standard Ovalen 0496, Crane Tiara 1992, and Porcher Prescott 11050.

Tell us the model AY sink you are eveRYd considering. We ™ LOw will match the PRICe design and beat the price! VaDesignerll Sinkse Our Price Guarantee Braxton-Bragg offers the BEST low-price guarantee! http://www.braxton-bragg.com/ We will match any stocking competitor’s price ValleCeramicUndermountSinks on any product that we sell. In addition, if you purchase from us and find a lower advertised price on a new, identical product at a competitor within 7 days of making your purchase, we will even refund the difference to you.

Check Out Our Website Item # Description Everyday LOW Price for other sink 20212 Vallé™ Undermount Porcelain Sink, Bisque, 17˝ x 14˝ $23.00 Vallé™ is the trusted name designs 20213 Vallé™ Undermount Porcelain Sink, White, 17˝ x 14˝ $23.00 in quality sinks.

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day. day. - informa more for 1-800-575-4401 Call ppery a than less takes Installation complete. comes

lI phase converter or re-wire your shop! shop! your re-wire or converter phase

s saw this pour; to concrete or build, to walls No

It’s Complete It’s or three phase configurations. No need to buy a a buy to need No configurations. phase three or

The Renegade is available in either single phase phase single either in available is Renegade The business.

No 3-Phase? No Problem! No 3-Phase? No European lead times will interfere with your your with interfere will times lead European

dustries or other fine part suppliers. No long long No suppliers. part fine other or dustries

tors have made that old wives’ tale obsolete. tale wives’ old that made have tors - In Motion at locally available are components

- mo improved and technology cutting new but The Renegade is made in the USA. All the wear wear the All USA. the in made is Renegade The

“The parts are on the boat” the on are parts “The think that you need a 15 HP motor to do this, this, do to motor HP 15 a need you that think

F.O.B. Knoxville, TN. Call for a freight and installation quote. installation and freight a for Call TN. Knoxville, F.O.B.

You will never hear, hear, never will You black at the rate of 7 ft./min. Some old sages sages old Some ft./min. 7 of rate the at black

Your choice of Bridge Saw Blades for a YEAR! a for Blades Saw Bridge of choice Your

10 HP motor will cut through 3cm absolute absolute 3cm through cut will motor HP 10

$3,400 Power Gantry Power 14146

Power where you need it need you where Power

cost option. Not Renegade! Renegade! Not option. cost

$2,400

Digital Read-Out (Optional) Read-Out Digital 14145

Some saws make high-intensity lasers an extra extra an lasers high-intensity make saws Some

$2,900 Single Phase Motor (Optional) (Optional) Motor Phase Single 14144

Laser Guide Included Guide Laser expensive, and more complicated. complicated. more and expensive, com/Renegade

$36,900 Renegade Bridge Saw Bridge Renegade 14143 14143

braxton-bragg. makes it better. We think it just makes it more more it makes just it think We better. it makes

Description Description # Item Everyday LOW Price LOW Everyday

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a bridge saw with fancy electronics somehow somehow electronics fancy with saw bridge a hydraulic tilting bed. tilting hydraulic

actually make countertops) think that loading loading that think countertops) make actually quick setup. The unit comes complete with a a with complete comes unit The setup. quick

Visit www.slipperyrockgazette.net for more Stone & Tile industry news for more Stone & Tile industry Visit www.slipperyrockgazette.net

for a prompt and courteous refund. courteous and prompt a for we offer you our Industry Guarantee: Industry our you offer we ford to train? Many manufacturers’ (who don’t don’t (who manufacturers’ Many train? to ford unique variable position locking system insures insures system locking position variable unique

isfied with your purchase, simply return it it return simply purchase, your with isfied best bridge saw value for the money that that money the for value saw bridge best - af you can programmers computer many How positive stops at 0, 45, 90, and 135 degrees. The The degrees. 135 and 90, 45, 0, at stops positive

- sat not are you If guarantee. money-back will love this saw and agree that this is the the is this that agree and saw this love will puter to layout and cut granite? Of course not! not! course Of granite? cut and layout to puter plete with a heavy-duty, rotating turntable, with with turntable, rotating heavy-duty, a with plete

All our products carry a 30-day, risk-free, risk-free, 30-day, a carry products our All Braxton-Bragg is so convinced that you you that convinced so is Braxton-Bragg - com a program to learn to need really you Do - com comes beauty this 4˝; 11´ is cut of Length

It’s Guaranteed! It’s Easy to use, quick to learn to quick use, to Easy Handles a FULL Size Slab Size FULL a Handles

Unlike the Matrix, Renegade comes with our 30-day, unconditional, money-back guarantee. money-back unconditional, 30-day, our with comes Renegade Matrix, the Unlike

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