Sims-Lohman Fine Kitchens and Granite Meeting the Challenge of Transformation and Growth Head-On with Twelve Locations UR Narrative Begins in by Peter J

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Volume 20, Issue 236 The Beacon of The sTone IndusTry feBruary 2014 Sims-Lohman Fine Kitchens and Granite Meeting the Challenge of Transformation and Growth Head-On with Twelve Locations UR narrative begins in by Peter J. Marcucci the late 1990s, when the Steinman family acquired Photos Courtesy Sims-Lohman and by Larry Hood Moellering Industries, a quality cabinet supplier in Cincinnati, Ohio. Resolute and committed, they did so knowing that the road to success is paved with a myriad of twists, turns and crossroads and is sometimes strewn with the remnants of previous entrepreneurs.

Choosing to fast track the journey, Steve Steinman, along with John Beiersdorfer, President of Sims-Lohman, and a cohesive working group of talent, switched on their internal GPS’s, buckled their seat belts, and accelerated the ride by adding acquisition after acquisition to their portfolio of premium companies in the greater Cincinnati, Ohio region to create Sims-Lohman Fine Kitchens and Granite. Spanning four states and employing over 300 people, Sims-Lohman has since dotted that roadmap with eight locations within Ohio, two A trough sink and built-in wine rack are high- in Indiana, one in Kentucky, and their latest lights of this 3cm Magma granite island and acquisition in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. All breakfast area. The contemporary cabinets twelve locations are sales showrooms, with company, we adopted that name. Following effective. A lot of companies in the countertop unmistakably define Sims-Lohman as the area’s four being fabrication facilities, strategically this acquisition, we acquired two granite fab- world either made that switch, or they didn’t gold standard and a shop of distinction. arranged, to maximize efficiency. ricators, thereby entering the granite business. stay in the game.” “The Steinmans bought Moellering Industries Adding natural stone to our cabinet business Much of Sims-Lohman focus is geared to The company also serves big box stores Home in 1998 from Tom Moellering,” explained John was quite a challenge for us. In the late 1990s, selling to professionals, so a lot of their clients, Depot and Lowes in some of their markets as Beiersdorfer. “Then, in 2007, after purchas- solid surface countertops, in this market, was according to Beiersdorfer, are custom residen- well as serving the hospitality and commercial ing Sims-Lohman, a design-oriented cabinet the upper end material of choice but sales really tial builders, apartment and single family home sectors such as hotels, restaurants and hospi- fell off as stone became more popular and cost builders, as well as designers and architects. tals. As a cabinet supplier, two customer bases they do not serve are kitchen and bath dealers, In This Issue because in most cases those types of businesses view Sims-Lohman as a competitive threat. Our cover story presents Sims-Lohman, a Also, according to Beiersdorfer, the company thriving shop with locations in Ohio, Indiana, Kentucky and Pennsylvania does not drive retail sales but does, occasional- ly, have retail customers walk into the compa- Rockcrete USA does trench drains- and ny’s twelve showrooms. does them well. They are the go-to solution “All of our showrooms have vignettes to for shops using lots of water for stone display our cabinets and countertops, and our fabrication – Page 40 typical showroom includes a consultation room New contributor and veteran trainer Bob which consists of a big screen TV and com- Murrell provides the info you need to take puters to design kitchen layouts for cabinets. on Hard Surfaces and win – Page 10 This allows us to meet and design with the A maze jib and 3-axis cranes span the many homeowner and offer a grand presentation by Look for our special New for 2014 Review machines and work stations at Sims-Lohman’s on Omni Cubed carts – Page 31 – and Cincinnati location. According to president John showing cabinets and countertops on the big Beiersdorfer, safety is of paramount concern and screen and close the deal. more great advice written by fabricators, this wide shot reflects a well-organized shop. installers and our business consulting pros Continued on page 2

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Left and Below: Sims- Lohman uses a variety of stone equipment throughout its fabrication facilities, with a predominance of Park Industries saws and CNC machines, like the Titan in their Este Avenue facility. “Our CNC machines fill our need for fast, day-to-day turnaround times of the many builders and big box stores we service.”

Above: The Sims-Lohman Este Avenue, Cincinnati showroom is a tasteful selection of standard and custom granite creations, and is one of twelve showrooms that display their fine line of countertops and cabinets, including MasterBrands, Kemp, and Hidden Creek. These three brands, according to John Beiersdorfer, are the company’s main suppliers of fine cabinetry.

Below: A sumptuous pallet of colors to entice the imagination of any designer or homeowner fills the company’s Cincinnati slab showrooms. Sims-Lohman holds an average of three and a half million dollars of slab inventory in its four slab showrooms throughout Ohio, Indiana, Kentucky and Pennsylvania.

“When you take out the big box portion of location to our other markets. Our ability to our business, I’d say that 80 percent of our cus- make those deliveries by truck the same day is tomers are buying cabinets with countertops, very critical for that distribution model at this and ultimately what we really try to sell is the time, and we are creating another distribution complete package, whether it is to a remodeler, point in the Cleveland market that will drive custom builder or a multi-family builder. We that territory for us.” really try to cover the whole cabinet and coun- Equipping their four fabrication shops with tertop solution for them so they are not looking mostly Park Industries equipment to support for multiple vendors, and we do it with a very the demand of those operations was, much of efficient and fast turnaround time. Every job is the time, by choice, explained Beiersdorfer, installed in five days or less after templating. adding that a lot of equipment and new team “Our professional clients don’t like to wait members came along with the many purchases two or three weeks to have a countertop fab- of newly acquired companies. ricated, so the process of moving that build “The company we bought in Columbus was cycle along for them is critical. It is also a a fairly big operation and came with two saws, little unique to each market whether we install two CNCs and a line polisher already in play. cabinets or don’t; in some cases we just deliver The acquisition of the fabrication shop in the cabinets to the job site, and their trim car- Cincinnati was a small one and brought with it penters install them. We also typically provide four folks. Two of them are still with us. The sinks and cabinet hardware but usually don’t operation in Columbus was a larger facility go beyond that by providing faucets or fixtures. with about thirty employees, and about two Supplying those things really isn’t in our core thirds of them are still with us. Our people are business. Those decisions are tied to the plumb- our company, and the most important compo- ing company and don’t tie into what we do.” nent of our organization is people, people and Cincinnati is Sims-Lohman’s main hub people. Anyone can buy a building, equipment and, in this case, where the rubber meets the and stone, but it’s the people in your organiza- road. With their Indianapolis and Columbus tion that get the work done. operations about an hour and a half away, Once a month at each of our locations we Cincinnati also services Lexington, Louisville bring our team members together. We are all and Indianapolis, with those being about ninety on the same team and pulling in the same direc- to a hundred and twenty miles away from each tion, and we meet to talk about our performance other. The company is also developing a north- at each location as well as company-wide. We ern hub centered in Cleveland. pay quarterly incentives based on how we are “We deliver cabinets from our Cincinnati hub doing, and then at the end of the year we pay

Shop www.braxton-bragg.com for Stone & Tile industry products Visit www.slipperyrockgazette.net for more Stone & Tile industry news | slIppery rock GazeTTe feBruary 2014 3 Above & Below: A breakfast bar and prep area sit across from a magnificent array of Sims-Lohman Fine Kitchens and Granite Aristokraft Winstead Maple White cabinets. The 3cm Santana granite countertop, with stove bump-out, flows end to end, adding a touch of elegance to this light-filled residence.

profit sharing based upon how well we’ve done before things got tough. The company name that that we are in a very competitive market. The in Indianapolis, and we will certainly be doing financially for that year. We spend a lot of time we now use, Sims-Lohman, was a strong player competition is very fractured out there, and OSHA audits in that location as well as our new with our folks, working with them and listening in Cincinnati, selling cabinets to custom build- we’ve set ourselves apart in this area, and we Pittsburgh location when we get our feet on the to their challenges and concerns, and it is my ers and remodelers, and Moellering Industries are focused on growth and not trying to fight off ground over there. All of us spend a lot of time job to remove any barriers that don’t allow them was the strong production supplier. So the one our competition. Over the last five years we’ve talking about safety and spend a lot of time to do their jobs. At the end of the day, their per- thing that we did, right before the downturn, is grown by an average of thirty percent, per year, working on it, and we do what we can to make formance is what makes or breaks us.” that we diversified, and when we began losing and obviously one of the challenges as you’re sure our team members are safe.” some of our production builder business, we had growing is finding good people. Since 2007 Drilling down into the numbers, Sims- The Transformation an increase on the design side from our acqui- we’ve acquired five granite fabrication shops, Lohman installs about one thousand 3cm jobs A big part of the credit for Sims-Lohman’s sition of Sims-Lohman, and we were able to and we are always looking for additional shops per month with a ratio of 80 percent granite and continued success, according to Beiersdorfer, expand our reach and refill volume. Obviously to acquire as well as the managers, fabricators 20 percent quartz,. with most including cabi- was the strong financial position and aggres- the only way you can do that is to not be highly and installers to operate them.” nets. To achieve those numbers, their Cincinnati sive posture the company took from the very leveraged and have the ability to expand. If you Safety for his team members is a very big thing, operation and main headquarters is a one hun- beginning. are leveraged, that is not possible.” given the potential for accidents, explained dred and fifty thousand square foot facility “Our business plan was to diversify. I can’t Doing everything from thousand dollar kitch- John, noting that Sims-Lohman employs a full where they fabricate as well as do all of their say we were smart enough to have known that, ens in a multifamily apartment complex, to one time safety director who runs their programs cabinet warehousing. Their second fabrication fundamentally, the business world was going hundred thousand dollar kitchens in five mil- and visits all of their facilities. facility, in Columbus, Ohio, is a thirty five to change in the near future—we weren’t that lion dollar homes, the bulk of Sims-Lohman’s “Safety is my number one agenda item in thousand foot facility. In 2013 the team put a smart! But we did sit down and say that we work is the middle of the road selling $3,000 our staff meetings as well as our local area brand spankin’ new fifty two thousand square were going to diversify as a means to grow the to $10,000 cabinet packages for homes in the meetings. foot facility in Indianapolis, and several months business and, through luck, that allowed us to $250,000 to $500,000 range. That, according We’ve just completed OSHA onsite audits of ago purchased a twenty two thousand square insulate ourselves from the financial crisis and to John, is where the bulk of the volume is, and our Cincinnati and Columbus facilities. This is foot facility in Pittsburgh where they fabricate set us up for these last few years. For an indus- if you are going to run volume that’s where the where OSHA comes in and walks through with as well. Being a custom granite fabricator as try it was a difficult time period, but we actually world exists. you on a collaborative basis and reviews and well, about ten percent of Sims-Lohman’s work sailed through that financial crisis, and it was an “There aren’t a lot of companies that look offers suggestions in terms of what improve- requires custom slab layout with the client; they opportunity for us to get some very good talent like us that do both cabinets and granite. We ments need to be made. We’ve just completed perform the layout using templates on slabs on our team and expand our reach and markets. will bump up against companies that compete the changes needed in both of those locations, while discussing vein flow and seams, but, Because we were in a strong financial position, against us on the countertop side and some and we are fully OSHA compliant. We’ve also according to John, the majority of their work we were aggressive and began diversifying just that compete on cabinets, but we don’t view just completed construction of our new facility doesn’t require slab layout. Continued on page 5

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® HIS month we feature one of the larger and more efficiently-run shops that we have profiled in recent years, Sims-Lohman Fine Kitchens and Granite. SLIPPERY ROCK GAZETTE We also spotlight Rockcrete USA, and present several new product launches, The Beacon of the Stone Industry most notably an update of Omni Cubed’s line of stone carts and a Deluxe Bulletproof Apron from Fabricator’s Friend. Read and enjoy the wit, wisdom Online Edition www.slipperyrockgazette.net and industry news offered this month. Send your letters and comments to publisher@slippery- For advertising rates, contact Larry Hood at 865-293-0231, rockgazette.net. If your shop is doing something interesting- we want to know! L.H. - Editor [email protected], or visit www.slipperyrockgazette.net for advertising information and to view and download back issues of the Slippery Rock Gazette®. Sims-Lohman Fine Kitchens and Granite, by Peter J. Marcucci ...... 1-3, 5 Rich Hassert ...... Publisher They Must Be Nuts ...... 4 Larry M. Hood ...... Editor/Design Director Bellavita Tile Appoints Skinner as Central U.S. Regional Manager ...... 5 G. William Brown ...... Graphic Designer From the Publisher’s Pen, by Rich Hassert ...... 6 Steve Bussell ...... Technical Advisor Coverings Celebrates 25th Anniversary in 2014 ...... 6, 7 Aaron J. Crowley ...... Stone Industry Consultant For the Right Strategy, Look Within, by Richard Pierce Thomas ...... 7 Joel Davis ...... Special Contributor International Fabricators Association Announces Annual Awards ...... 9 Jennifer Holder ...... Special Contributor Baby, It’s Cold Outside ...... 9 Amy Livingston ...... Special Contributor Maintaining Super Hard Floors, by Bob Murrell ...... 10, 13 Bob Murrell ...... Special Contributor Surfaces, Inc. Donates Glass Mosaic Floor to Miami Country Day School ...... 16 Frederick M. Hueston ...... Stone Care Consultant Mediterranea Introduces Flow Series ...... 16 Carmen Ghia ...... Foreign Desk Shenshoubyou, by Aaron J. Crowley ...... 18 Rufus B. Leakin ...... Guru of Folklore ELaser System Offers Incredible Speed and Accuracy ...... 19 Peter J. Marcucci ...... Feature Contributor A Pain in the BVD’s, by Sam Venable ...... 20 Anne Tenna ...... Human Resources Dept. February Faux Pas ...... 20 Richard Pierce Thomas ...... Leadership and Small Business Consultant Sports Quote of the Month ...... 20 Sam Venable ...... Special Contributor Covering ETC’s Award-Winning, Innovative Bio-Glass ...... 24 Stacie B. Williams ...... Special Contributor Toad You So ...... 24 Boomer Winfrey ...... Varmint County Correspondent It’s Mauler Time ...... 24 Please email address updates to [email protected]. Mallards of Leisure ...... 24 Please note that subscription requests, classified ad submission form and our Marble Institute of America Elects New Directors for 2014 ...... 25 2014 Advertising Guidelines are available online at www.slipperyrockgazette.net The National Kitchen & Bath Association Announces 2014 President and Executive Committee ... 26 Registration for Coverings’ 25th Exposition Still Open ...... 28 Hey, Where’s My Lunch? ...... 28 ® Wedding Days to Remember ...... 28 Bullet Proof Apron DELUXE The Varmint County Chronicles, by Boomer Winfrey ...... 29 Braxton-Bragg Offers New Akemi Impregnation Remover, by Joel Davis ...... 30 Omni Cubed Launches New and Improved Transport Cart Line for 2014 ...... 31, 33 The Slippery Rock Classifieds ...... 34 Creative Edge Cornerstones at Freedom Tower–One World Trade Center ...... 35 Techno™ Recycled Glass Surfaces by Architectural System, Inc. (ASI), by Stacy B. Williams ..... 37 NEW Florim USA Introduces Pier ...... 38 DESIGN! The Strange and Unusual ...... 38 The Stone Detective, by Frederick M. Hueston, PhD ...... 39 Rockcrete USA: Providing Price, Performance and Peace of Mind for 9 Years, by Jennifer Holder .. 41 Fabricator’s Friend Introduces Deluxe Apron, by Stacy B. Williams ...... 42

They Must Be Nuts

UTHORITIES in California a trailer parked on Highway 99 north of are trying to crack the case Sacramento. of a nut thief who This time several truckloads of wal- made off with nuts were taken from the facility. 140,000 pounds of walnuts. Authorities say rising prices — about $2 per pound — is what The theft, estimated at near- appears to be driving the recent ly $400,000, occurred in the walnut thefts. small Central Valley town of Now Available from No arrests have yet been Escalon. Investigators say it was made. one of the biggest to hit the booming indus- Walnuts are California’s fourth-lead- try. In October, about 12,000 pounds of ing agricultural export. China remains the 800-575-4401 www.braxton-bragg.com walnuts worth $50,000 were stolen from world’s leading producer of walnuts.

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Sims-Lohman Fine Kitchens and Granite Netuno Bordeaux 3cm granite combined with Continued from page 3 Kemp custom cabinets provides both classical charm and function to this upscale kitchen set- ting. Kemp Cabinets, LLC is a medium sized Amish custom cabinet manufacturer located in Indiana.

The custom cabinetry, built-in designs hous- ing baking ovens and the refrigerator, and the first-rate installation are hallmarks of the quality of design and product that Sims- Lohman delivers to its customers.

information, and once we do the template, be Growth & a Brilliant Future it electronic or hard, we are going to be back “This industry has come through a pretty five days later, or sooner, to install that job. tough time, and we have been very success- We do that whether we are busy or slow. So ful through this period. We are well capital- if we see a heavy volume in, say, Columbus ized, are members of the Marble Institute of or Indianapolis, we will sometimes look at our America, and in 2009 we were a $24 million other operations to support that work that is out per year company. This year we are going to of their area. finish up at around $69 million with an average “As far as a post installation follow-up, we growth of 30 percent per year, and we have do a variety of things. On new construction continuing plans for that double digit growth. jobs, our installation managers perform random We have very high customer satisfaction rat- audits. For remodel (lived in) work, we’ll send ings, and we measure everything, every day. Hidden Creek, a small cus- out a follow- up care package including a sur- Our customer service and execution time is also tom cabinet shop located in vey card and a gift cutting board. For our home very important to us with quick lead times and Ohio, supplied this unique center work, we call the customer with a short five day turnarounds. On top of that, we believe black acrylic vanity. The survey.” we have a fun and exciting place to work. It is onyx vessel sink was the In regard to purchasing stone, Sims-Lohman work, and it is serious, but at the end of the day client’s choice, from an un- known source. buys all of their materials from wholesalers it’s only cabinets and countertops, and none of within the United States, and when asked how us take our jobs too seriously. We really strive “Most of our home builders don’t want to tance is the respect shown by Sims-Lohman’s that squared with importing, John said: “With to have a good and fun working environment. have things slowed down by doing custom many installers who, day after day, walk into our relationship with the big box companies, “That said, our long-term goals are to contin- layout, and the big box stores have no need clients’ homes and set up temporary shop. we are driven into purchasing relationships ue to develop our existing markets and grow, as for this process either. It is only when we are “We complete about fifty granite installations with MS International on the Home Depot side, well as to look at surrounding markets in both working with a remodeler or custom builder per day within our total geography, so it’s and Cosentino, and International Logistics and the granite and cabinet end of things, and to that we do this, but it is not a big piece of our roughly two jobs per day per crew, and twenty Stone Distribution on the Lowes side. We also have fun doing it. After this story comes out, I work. We do, however, have the people and five crews per day. We do have the capacity to work with suppliers such as Dal Tile and Mont would love to hear the phone ring with people space to easily perform this if necessary. It is flex that up to a higher number, and if our vol- Granite. We are not importing any containers saying, ‘I read your story and would love to an art, and our team members do a good job ume demands this, we will slide a few people at all. We’ve evaluated doing that, but due to come to work for you,’ or an owner who says, with the homeowner. It usually takes the client back and forth within our organization. All of safety and economic factors we do not import. ‘I’ve been in the business for 15 years and a little while to see it, but eventually they get our fabrication and installations are done by our In each one of our fabrication facilities we have don’t have an exit plan. Would you be interest- it. Layout is sometimes an important piece of team members, and we do not subcontract any an indoor slab showroom, and we are showing ed in talking?’” the puzzle when doing those complicated jobs.” of our work. somewhere in the range of seven hundred and Visit their new website at www.sims-lohman. The end quality of fabricated stone work is “One of the unique things in all of our mar- fifty thousand dollars worth of material in each com or call 513-651-3510. For employment always of paramount importance as well as is kets is that we do installations five days after one of them, and in total, we hold three and a opportunities, contact Jodi Burke-Toncar at the final installed product, but of equal impor- the templating, so if we’ve been given all the half million dollars worth of slab inventory.” 513-667-3457, [email protected].

Shop www.braxton-bragg.com for Stone & Tile industry products Visit www.slipperyrockgazette.net for more Stone & Tile industry news | 6 feBruary 2014 slIppery rock GazeTTe From the Publisher’s Pen Coverings Celebrates 25th Anniversary in 2014 The Genesis of an Idea Show Celebrates Industry Success with “After-Hours” ON’T worry, this article has nothing to do with arguments Commemorative Party about the origins of the world, or if/when our ancestors came out of the caves or down from the trees. It is the, more or less, true story of how a useful idea was conceived and then implemented.

On a cold and windy night a couple of years ago, I had dinner with Doug Slocum. Doug is the founder of both the Slippery Rock Gazette and Braxton-Bragg. He is a very creative guy, bubbling over with ideas, some of which make sense. We had dinner at a local fish joint and as I remember it, the dinner was OK. After dinner, Doug invited me to his house for a taste of some very special bourbon that he had been keeping under lock and key. Of course I felt honored, and we proceeded up the mountain to the castle. While I was contemplating the fact that the bourbon was extraordinary and a vast improvement on the corn provided by mother nature, Doug hit me with an idea. Raising his glass, he said that times are difficult and we should help our customers by offering FREE! Classified ads in the Slippery Rock. My normal response to ideas not my own is to find fault with them, so I quickly pointed out the labor of typesetting (wonder if we still do that?), the huge expense of paper, ink, and postage, and most importantly that we would simply not be able to keep up with offering free ads. After making a few unkind remarks about my lack of sensitivity and mental acuity, Doug more or less gracefully accepted defeat. The next morning we had a meeting with the programming team that was working on the WENTY-FIVE years ago, the met with enthusiasm and excitement from the new SlipperyRockGazette.net website and it slowly dawned on me that a specialized “Craig’s tile and stone industry in first several hundred exhibitors. The inaugural List” for fabricators, installers, and contractors just might make sense. We then checked a the United States was gain- show also accomplished something no one couple of other websites, and when we saw how much people were charged for online ads, we ing momentum and needed a in the industry had been able to do — unite immediately changed our program scope to include FREE Classified Ads! single, cohesive venue for distributors, five industry associations under one umbrel- Well, the rest is history. Many people now visit www.SlipperyRockGazette.net each week retailers, contractors, installers and la: The Ceramic Tile Distributor Association and check out the free classified ads. Many people have also been able to sell unneeded equip- specifiers to see the finest examples of (CTDA), Tile of Spain/Spanish Ceramic ment, find employment, and advertise their need for things. It is open and absolutely free to new tile production available in North Tile Manufacturer’s Association (ASCER), fabricators, installers, contractors, and others in the trade. We exclude manufacturers of new America. Ceramics of Italy/Confindustria Ceramica, products and distributors of various products as well as weight loss programs, vitamins, and National Tile Contractors Association (NTCA) hair restoration products. The solution: Coverings, the first U.S. tile and and The Tile Council of North America stone exposition and conference, was founded (TCNA). The screen capture below will show you how easy it is to use: not only to showcase new products, tools and “It seems nearly impossible that it has been Email responses to: machinery, but also to provide networking 25 years since my first show,” said Inma Roca, opportunities, training and education on an Coverings Board Member and representative Rich Hassert [email protected] array of topics from design trends to installation from Tile of Spain. “The show unquestionably techniques and certification programs. hit the mark — finally there was a trade show, Placing your FREE Next year, Coverings will celebrate its 25th and not just an industry conference format online Slippery Rock Anniversary from April 29—May 2, 2014 at event, in North America.” classified ad is easy the Las Vegas Convention Center. The show Since that first show, Coverings has become as 1, 2, 3: will host an official Anniversary “After-Hours” overwhelmingly the largest and most important Party on Wednesday, April 30 from 9 p.m.-11 international platform for the tile and stone p.m. at a Las Vegas nightclub to celebrate this industry in the U.S., with more than 900 exhib- important milestone. The special event will itors, more than 70 conference sessions and a feature an open bar, music, networking and myriad of networking events annually — all reminiscing. Exhibitors and distributors can for free. purchase up to 10 tickets to share with custom- “When I look back and see how Coverings 1) Choose a catagory ers. Tickets are $60 each, and can be purchased has progressed over the years, these words by upon show registration at www.coverings.com. Peter Drucker come to mind: ‘Whenever you Additionally, Coverings attendees will receive see a successful business, someone once made a a 25th Anniversary commemorative collectible courageous decision,’” said Luciano Galassini, at the show. Coverings Board Member and Deputy Director General of Confindustria Ceramica. “By join- 2) Type in your ad Coverings Comes of Age ing forces with other tile associations and The first iteration of Coverings took place creating a tradeshow run by the industry, we’ve in 1990 in Anaheim, California, when Tile been able to transform the tile market in the Expo and The World Exposition of Ceramic U.S. Many things have changed over 25 years, Tile and Bathroom Furnishings merged, cre- but the show continues to be the best tool for 3) Preview and post ating The International Tile Exposition, which promoting tile in America among distributors, later became the International Tile and Stone contractors, specifiers and consumers.” Exhibition and eventually Coverings. By all accounts the show was a huge achievement, Continued on page 7

Shop www.braxton-bragg.com for Stone & Tile industry products Visit www.slipperyrockgazette.net for more Stone & Tile industry news | slIppery rock GazeTTe feBruary 2014 7 For the Right Strategy, Look Within Richard Pierce Thomas Leadership and Small Business Consultant

HERE is a common mistake money), and more importantly, why it mat- and then have the good fortune of having lived he visited one day to purchase a birthday card businesses make when devel- ters, both to the business and to the customer. through the fire walk, or two, before you truly for his wife. oping strategy—they focus One could even argue that the latter is more acquire competence. Staring at the display of cards, it dawned on too often on what is happen- important than the former. To underscore this, 3. Business Model – The most fickle of him why he wouldn’t get to where he needed ing externally while ignoring the most consider the following: Koch Industries built the three, while the first two can endure for a with his business—he didn’t have the right important place to start—internally, the largest privately held business in America lifetime, the business model may not. Some model. ensuring it has the components of an based on the principle that understanding what stand the test of time, many don’t. A friend’s Unlike his PC business with expensive and enduring business. creates the greatest value for experience with opening a complex inventory that was prone to obsoles- their customers is the most retail PC business in his rural cence or failures, the card shop had inexpensive It was through camping with my dad early on important thing. The first and hometown about ten years ago inventory, virtually non-existent failures, high- that I learned a framework for understanding most important element of illustrates this. er margins and longer shelf life. this. The campsites rarely had level surfaces its MBM® (Market Based Soon after opening his “I had to admit that no matter how well I and he showed me how a three-legged stool Management) Framework is, store, a greeting card shop managed the business,” he said soberly, “with- always finds its level. No matter how uneven “where and how…the orga- moved in next door and while out the right model, I’d always be a slave to it. the ground, the stool did not rock when I sat nization can create the most he watched to see how long And I didn’t have the right model.” Realizing on it. The analogy of the three-legged stool long-term value for custom- their business would last, his he could not change the reality of his situation, has stayed with me over the years and having ers and society.” If it is good business began to grow which he sold his business within six months. since experienced the uneven and often turbu- enough for Koch in building brought its own implications. Start 2014 on the right foot by taking a hard lent landscape of the free market in the aim of a $100B+ business, it is good Warranty returns, damaged look at your model. While exiting may not be building an enduring business, I have found that enough to work in our busi- product and an occasional the answer, it may be time for a significant it applies here as well. nesses as well. unhappy customer to name a change. Leveraging the analogy, there are three prin- 2. Competence – The busi- few. Add to this the hassles of ciples crucial to building enduring businesses. ness must be great at what it hiring and managing employ- Rick Thomas is a Principal and Director of When well understood and executed by the does, and by my definition is the combination ees; he began to question whether he had made Human Capital at Pilot Wealth Management, a organization, they will allow the business to of talent, learned skills, and scar tissue from the right decision. registered investment advisor in Oregon state. withstand any economic climate. They are as surviving a fire walk—leading the organiza- The business was never intended to be the Leading their focus on the human component follows: tion through a brush with mortality. To gain end-all, but rather a means to provide a lifestyle of building wealth, he consults and speaks to 1. Purpose – A well-understood and com- competence in your business, you must first he and his wife could enjoy once the operation organizations across the country, focusing on municated explanation of why the business be willing to sacrifice for it, be skilled enough ran on its own. The traffic at the card shop individual and organizational achievement. exists (of which by the way, is not about the to run faster and smarter than the competition, meanwhile, had grown to a steady stream and

Coverings Celebrates 25th Anniversary in 2014

Continued from page 6

Coverings Catapults Industry Growth from 977 million square feet in 1988 to 3.3 bil- The growth of Coverings, however, has come lion square feet at the industry’s peak in 2006, with limitations. While Anaheim proved to according to U.S. tile consumption data from be a popular venue in the show’s early years, the Tile Council of North America. During that the sheer size of Coverings restricts the loca- same time, the industry has witnessed a revolu- tions where it can take place, which currently tion in technology and design, all taking place includes convention centers in Las Vegas, at Coverings. From the institution of rectified Orlando, Atlanta and Chicago. tiles in 1993 to the introduction of large format “Each year, we seek to produce a show that tiles in 1998 and inkjet technology gaining pop- is more outstanding, impactful and memorable ularity around 2003, nearly every aspect of the than the last,” said Karin Fendrich, Coverings industry has evolved. show director. “Coverings exhibitors continual- “Since inception, Coverings has been about ly showcase outstanding products and inventive people and education—and over the years, booths with international flair, like no other the show has only improved,” said Svend trade show in the United States. Paired with Hovmand, Coverings Board Member and the most comprehensive educational track and representative of the Tile Council of North numerous networking opportunities, Coverings America. “Coverings has evolved to showcase continues to provide the platform that the truly impressive booths, brilliant products, live industry relies on to thrive and continue its installation demonstrations, and equally import- success all year long.” ant—our educational track. As tile and stone The show’s owners attribute the growth of the have become essential to the overall architec- industry to the success of Coverings. In fact, tile ture and design of many spaces, Coverings consumption has catapulted in the U.S. market remains critical to fulfilling industry demand.”

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Shop www.braxton-bragg.com for Cyclone Dry Porcelain Blades Visit www.slipperyrockgazette.net for more Stone & Tile industry news | slIppery rock GazeTTe feBruary 2014 9 International Surface Fabricators Association Announces Annual Awards Industry Veteran Fadi Halabi Takes Top Honor

HE International Surface Fabricators Association (ISFA) announced the winners of its annual awards at the association’s recent annual meeting in Atlanta.

The ISFA awards are chosen by association members, and given to those in the industry that stand out as the very best. Taking top honors, the Fabricator of the Year Award was given to Fadi Halabi of Duracite in Fairfield, Calif. The Fabricator of the Year is awarded to an individual of a fabricator member company that in the past year has best exemplified the ISFA ideals of quality, innovation, character and exemplary service to ISFA and/or the decorative surfacing industry, with overall excellence. Halabi, fabricator of solid surface, granite and other natural stone, quartz surfacing and recycled materi- Fabricator of the Year Award was given to Fadi als, operates his business with 10 locations in Halabi of Duracite in Fairfield, California. California and Nevada. He earned the award Halabi, fabricator of solid surface, granite and for being a model leader of a large fabrication other natural stone, quartz surfacing and recy- company and specifically for perfecting for his cled materials, operates his business with 10 locations in California and Nevada. He earned Baby, It’s Cold Outside business a color-coding process for the hearing the award for being a model leader of a large impaired, first introduced in the automotive fabrication company and specifically for per- UST how cold was it in said. A call to the department was not imme- industry. The process allows anyone at any fecting for his business a color-coding process Kentucky? Apparently cold diately returned the following morning. time to walk into any of the company’s shop for the hearing impaired, first introduced in the enough for an escaped prison- Vick was serving a six-year sentence for automotive industry. The process allows anyone locations and know exactly where in the process er to decide to turn himself in. burglary and criminal possession of a forged at any time to walk into any of the company’s a job is. shop locations and know exactly where in the instrument at the time of the escape from The other honored winners are: process a job is. Authorities said the inmate escaped from Blackburn Correctional Center. a minimum security facility in Lexington, There was no answer at the Sunset Motel The Associate of the Year Award is given to early January. As temperatures dropped into and Restaurant, where Roberts said Vick an associate member company that in the past The Envision Award is given to the ISFA the low single digits, officials say the man surrendered, that morning. year has best exemplified the role of servicing member firm or individual that excels in cre- walked into a motel and asked the clerk to the needs of fabricator member companies, and ating something imaginative and special for call police. who has best supported ISFA in all activities. the surfacing industry. The winner for 2013 Robert Vick, 42, of Hartford told the clerk This year’s winner is R.S. Hughes for its pro- was Cosentino for the creation of a whole new he wanted to turn himself in and escape the gram of offering ISFA members with product category in the surfacing industry with the arctic air, Lexington police spokeswoman discounts and for overall customer satisfaction. development of its new Dekton product. A new Sherelle Roberts said. Additionally, the company readily participates proprietary process, called Particle Sintering Vick was checked out by paramedics in ISFA functions and supports the associa- Technology (PST), was created in the invention and returned to Blackburn Correctional tion’s goals. of the product, which is likened to an acceler- Complex, Roberts said. ated process for creating metamorphic rock. “This was definitely of his own volition,” The Innovator Award is for the member Additionally Cosentino has been a long-time she said. “It’s cold out there, too cold to run firm or individual who goes outside the box to supporter of ISFA and its goals in the industry. around. I can understand why the suspect create a product or system that enhances the life The International Surface Fabricators would turn himself in.” or elevates the role of the surface fabricator. The Association (ISFA) is a not-for-profit trade Vick would have been dressed in pris- winner for 2013 was Russ Berry of A.S.S.T. in association dedicated to helping its members on-issued khaki pants, a shirt and a jacket Hannover, Pennsylvania, for applying ingenui- become more profitable through education, when he escaped, Department of Corrections ty to the field of solid surface fabrication that fostering professionalism and promoting the spokeswoman Lisa Lamb said. Windchill leads to the building of out-of-the-box items countertop industry. For more information or readings were 20 below zero that week in and amazing projects that others might shy to schedule an interview with ISFA presi- Lexington. away from. Berry is a past Board Member and dent, David Paxton, contact Communications The Lexington Fire Department treated President of ISFA, who has given tireless of his Director Kevin Cole at 815-721-1507 or Vick for hypothermia that evening, Roberts time for the betterment of the industry. [email protected].

Shop www.braxton-bragg.com for Stone & Tile industry products Visit www.slipperyrockgazette.net for more Stone & Tile industry news | 10 feBruary 2014 slIppery rock GazeTTe Maintaining Super Hard Floors Bob Murrell What are Super Hard Floors? Special Contributor

ATURAL stone, terrazzo, than stones that do not contain calcium. We can ceramic tiles, and decora- therefore group stones into two classifications, tive concrete I consider to be those that contain calcium, and those that do Super Hard Floors. not. Stones such as marble, limestone, terrazzo, and concrete all contain calcium and are sen- Natural stones such as marbles, granites, sitive to acidic materials. There are basically slates, and limestones are very common in two tests that are normally used to confirm the both commercial and residential environ- material in question: an acid test and a hardness ments. Ceramic tiles dominate the commercial test. Tests should always be performed on an restroom and kitchen market. New porcelain inconspicuous area. ceramic tile technology can give the look of Acids attack calcium-containing stones and natural stone with even more durability. The etch the surface. If the surface is polished, the terrazzo market is growing once again. Natural acid etch is more noticeable than with textured polishing of terrazzo is one of the latest and or honed surfaces. Providing that there are no hottest trends. Decorative and polished concrete coatings on the surface of the stone in question, are also very popular. All of these Super Hard a simple acid test may be all that is required Floor surfaces require proper products and to determine whether the stone contains calci- technical support to have a successful mainte- um or not. Simply place a drop of acid in an nance program implemented. inconspicuous area and observe the reaction. If the drop fizzes (effervesces), the stone contains Designing a Stone Care Program calcium. If there is no reaction, the stone does Natural stone conveys the upscale image that not contain calcium and is probably granite, corporate management teams want. Stone rep- slate, sandstone, or quite possibly some type resents that feel of solidity, perpetual beauty, of ceramic tile made to look like natural stone. class and warmth. For these reasons, these and The second test is also easily implement- other similar hard surfaces are being installed ed. Using a pocketknife (Mohs hardness of at exponential rates. There are literally billions between 6-6.5), pull the tip across the surface Polishing stone flooring requires different abrasives or chemicals for the different chemical and phys- of square feet of marble, granite, slate, terraz- of the material. Marble is typically between a ical characteristics of each kind of stone. Above, Bob Murrell (second from left) teaches the different zo, ceramic tile, and decorative concrete. This 3 and 4 on the Mohs hardness scale. Friedrich techniques for marble and black granite restoration at a recent hands-on workshop at Braxton-Bragg. means that there is ample opportunity for con- Mohs basically said it takes a higher number nature and is admired for its inconsistencies no longer work effectively, it will probably tractors to specialize in these surfaces as well to scratch a lower number. 1 is talc and 10 is and imperfections. These random patterns are be necessary to have the installation restored as conventional maintenance programs. Super diamond. Therefore, the marble should scratch what make marble and other natural stones so mechanically. Hard Floor programs generally lend to higher easily with no added pressure. Granites are desirable. Granite polishing compounds are also avail- profit margins as well, which is a welcome normally around a 7 on the scale and should not Maintenance on calcium containing stones able but since granite is acid resistant, these sight in today’s competitive market place. scratch with the knife. and non-calcium containing stones is identical, compounds can’t use the advantage of an acid. All natural stone, when used as a building Next, determine what the expected results except with respect to re-polishing. Marble is Therefore, granite must be polished mechani- material, requires knowledge of proper long- should be of the material in question. Is a highly normally a softer material than most granite cally using only superfine micro abrasives. It is term protection, maintenance, and restoration polished surface desirable? Is slip resistance and therefore develops wear patterns faster. a very slow process compared to the re-polish- to receive the full benefit from the investment. a major concern? Don’t forget economics and And because it contains calcium, marble is also ing of marble. Lack of knowledge can become an expensive ease of maintenance. What was the original more susceptible to chemical attack. However, One of the most desirable traits of natural practice. It is imperative in today’s market intent of the design? All of these issues should it is also much easier to restore the polish to stone is that, in most situations, it is completely that retail store operators, building owners, be of concern when designing a maintenance marble than to granite. Because marble will restorable. A mechanically restored floor is and contract cleaners know what type of nat- program for natural stone. There are three basic etch, we can actually use products that con- actually more valuable and desirable than a ural stone surfaces they are responsible for types of stone surfaces: 1) polished, 2) honed, tain special acids to aid in the polishing step newly installed floor. A properly restored floor and the appropriate maintenance methods to and 3) textured. Many times I have seen a honed the same way it is done at fabrication plants has no lippage (uneven tiles), looks better, and ensure their lasting beauty and durability. The (smooth finish with little or no light reflection) worldwide. is easier to clean. Because it is easier to keep responsibility to teach and inform these people limestone floor where the facility management Superfine abrasives mixed with either potas- clean, polished surfaces will last longer with is that of the suppliers, installers, fabricators, insisted on a high gloss appearance. The easiest sium oxalate or oxalic acid will polish most less frequency of re-polishing required. All and restoration professionals throughout the way this was possible was to use a topical fin- marble, limestone, and terrazzo very quickly stone flooring in Europe is ground flat when it stone-related industry. ish to achieve the look they thought the stone and efficiently. These marble polishing com- is installed for these reasons. If you are a BSC or contractor, the first step should present. This usually results in failure pounds and powders are available in ready-to- With improved diamond technology and is to contact a reputable distributor of quality both with respect to the expected appearance use formulas and can be used with conventional equipment, mechanical restoration projects are products and technical support who can actual- and cost. It could also be detrimental to the equipment to restore traffic lanes and areas much quicker than those of 20 years ago. ly help with the design of a stone care program. integrity of the stone. where the natural polish has been degraded. Restoration projects should be amortized over Suppliers should offer a quality comprehensive Through years of experience and technical There is also another method of polishing that at least a five year period when justifying the natural stone care product line. Partner with a evaluation it has been found that, in most all can add additional gloss called crystallization. cost. Maintenance costs will go down, appear- distributor you can count on for a long-term situations, it is always much easier, more cost This method typically uses a #0 steel wool pad ance levels will go up, and trip hazards will relationship who has superior technical support. effective, and results in a better appearance to to apply and buff the crystallizer. It is espe- lessen. All of these factors must be calculated When designing a maintenance program or maintain the stone in its original condition rath- cially helpful with green (serpentine) marble in the cost. Attending an acknowledged resto- before attempting a restoration project, it is er than a coating on the surface. and darker stones. It generally can’t make a ration and maintenance training seminar will necessary to determine the type of stone in Rules of thumb: 1) never try to make a bad floor look good but can make a good floor help the contractor learn this process and also question. Is it marble, limestone, granite, slate, stone something it is not; 2) whatever finish look better. help with confidence levels. terrazzo, or some other stone surface? Stones is desired, it is not poured on top from a bot- When the floor has deteriorated to a point that contain calcium are polished differently tle; and, 3) realize that stone is a product of where powders, compounds, or crystallizer Continued on page 13

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Shop www.braxton-bragg.com for Hercules Air Polishers Visit www.slipperyrockgazette.net for more Stone & Tile industry news | slIppery rock GazeTTe feBruary 2014 13 tine damp-mopping or auto-scrubbing with a for these porcelains as well as the quarry tiles, Maintaining Super Hard Floors stone soap, and re-polishing of traffic wear which will give the tiles a natural high gloss areas as they develop with the polishing com- appearance with no coating. This procedure Continued from page 10 pounds and/or crystallizer. This approach looks has high closure rate after a demo is completed. better and costs less, it’s a no-brainer! Coupled with rates of $2.50 per sq. ft. or Suppliers should note that if they have the more, contractors love it! This naturally applied finish business now, their product sales should gloss will last many years, even in high traffic approximately actually increase with a natu- areas. rally polished program. Cost reduction is from Once the tiles have been polished and the lowered maintenance hours not product. If they grout lines have been cleaned and restored, the do not have the existing finish sales, they can grout should be impregnated (sealed) to prevent effectively offer this new and improved pro- liquid contaminants from penetrating. gram to acquire the business. After the grout has been properly protected, the floor is now ready for routine maintenance, Ceramic Tiles which should consist of a quality neutral clean- Grout lines are the weakest link with most er. This is the closest thing to a Kevlar floor that Daily auto-scrub and use of a quality stone soap or neutral cleaner (Majestic No-Rinse Neutral ceramic tile floors. There are specific intensive can be achieved. Cleaner) is probably the most important part of any natural stone-care program. A stone soap will actually clean and enrich natural stone rendering it more soil and stain resistant while keeping the grout cleaners available which, when combined Other ceramics, such as glazed tiles, Mexican natural colors bright and vivid. A periodic thorough intensive cleaning (like Majestic Stone & Grout with the right multi-level brush, will restore Pavers, terra cotta, etc. require slightly different Intensive Cleaner) is recommended on a quarterly basis for commercial situations. This will clean even the most grungy grout lines. Be aware that care procedures. The key is to always clean and the stone and grout lines of any soiling accumulation. acids are to only be used as a last resort to clean protect the grout and seek technical assistance All natural stone has a porosity factor. Some as stain removal poultices, adhesives for repair, grout lines as the acid will weaken cementitious when in doubt about the tile itself. stones absorb stains faster than other stones and equipment. It is best to find a distributor grouts. Contractors should contact a distributor that therefore, it is recommended that all stone be who understands and supplies products to all Commercial restroom floors are typically is knowledgeable in all of these areas to pur- impregnated. Use of a high quality impregnator phases of the stone industry. Even with the best the 2˝ porcelain tiles. Facility managers are chase their Super Hard Floor Care product can only help an installation by facilitating of maintenance programs in place, there will be notorious for wanting these floors to have a lines. Superior technical support is the key to much easier and more cost effective, long-term special situations that require some thought and high gloss. Until recently, the only way to success when dealing with Super Hard Floors. maintenance. Soiling and staining are much expertise. Impregnators and stone soaps do not accomplish this was with the use of floor finish easier to remove and etching is much easier to make stone bulletproof. or some type of coating. This procedure would Bob Murrell has worked as a supplier of restore on marble, which has been impregnated. almost immediately fail because the finish products and technical support to the natural Unlike topical coatings, true impregnators will Terrazzo Floor Care would not adhere properly to the tile, and is also stone industry, for over 35 years. He has written not appreciably affect the natural qualities of There are two basic types of terrazzo, cemen- hygienically incorrect, and eventually becomes numerous articles for various trade publications the stone. The original permeability of the stone titious and epoxy. Both refer to the matrix of unsightly and too costly to maintain. and has also trained thousands of contractors can remain as high as 97% when impregnated the terrazzo. This means that usually terrazzo Now there are two-step polishing powders over the past 25 years. with a top quality product and the appearance is made up of either cement and marble chips of the stone should not be appreciably affected. or epoxy and marble chips. There is poured in An impregnator can be chosen for its water place terrazzo and pre-cast terrazzo which is resistance or water, grease and oil resistance. usually available in 12˝ tiles. Poured terrazzo This is a highly advisable optional step and usually has either brass or zinc (silver colored) definitely a win/win situation. metal strips that divide a specific sized area. Use of a quality stone soap or quality neutral The typical procedure for terrazzo (poured) is cleaner is probably one of the most important to pour in place, grind to a 100 or 120 grit, then parts of any natural stone-care program. A seal with an acrylic or urethane sealer. When stone soap will actually clean and enrich natural the original terrazzo sealer becomes worn, stone, rendering it more soil and stain resistant janitorial contractors begin the wax and strip while keeping the natural colors bright and programs. Natural polishing, like marble, is the vivid. On darker materials, a quality neutral latest technology for terrazzo floors. This type cleaner with optical brighteners may be the of procedure will improve the appearance and answer. Many contractors, who try to cut costs reduce the maintenance costs. by using less expensive generic neutral clean- The terrazzo is stripped to remove any exist- ers, end up spending more time and money ing coatings, the honing procedure is then trying to keep the stone clean and usually the continued from where it left off, with diamond stone’s appearance factor suffers as well. discs normally starting at about a 220 grit, A periodic, thorough, intensive cleaning depending on the condition of the terrazzo. The using an appropriate non-abrasive brush is rec- terrazzo is honed at least through 400 then 800 ommended on a quarterly basis for commercial grit and finally taken to a high natural polish situations. This will clean the stone and grout using polishing compounds. If a higher sheen lines of any stone soap accumulation. This is is desired, the terrazzo can be crystallized, very necessary, as dirt tends to accumulate in once dry. the grout lines even with the best maintenance Crystallizer is a spray and buff fluorosilicate program in place. This intensive cleaner should acid used for the polishing of calcium con- also be used for extremely dirty situations. taining materials. Epoxy terrazzo may require Other products are also available for coun- honing to higher levels, up to 3,500 grit, and tertops, vanities, and vertical surfaces. This is followed by using a polishing compound and/or where the importance of establishing a good crystallizer. The resulting floor is much clearer relationship with a reputable distributor of in appearance, will not scuff, will never require products and technical support comes into play. stripping and re-coating, and should never dis- There will be circumstances that arise where color or yellow. other specialty products may be needed such Maintenance consists of dust-mopping, rou-

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Shop www.braxton-bragg.com for Groves Products Visit www.slipperyrockgazette.net for more Stone & Tile industry news | 16 feBruary 2014 slIppery rock GazeTTe Surfaces, Inc. Donates Glass Mosaic Floor to Miami Country Day School

NE of the nation’s premier pri- vate schools, Miami Country Day School, received the donation of a custom-created glass mosaic floor for Plaza Colombia, the main entrance of its Katherine E. Franco Center for Learning Resources.

This floor, which included the school’s “seal,” was handmade using over 60,000 tiny pieces of glass. Completely suitable for high foot-traffic areas, it took Surfaces’ world-class mosaic arti- sans just over two months to create this magnificent piece of art. Techniques used to make this mosaic date back to ancient Rome and Greece, allowing the artists to create complex shapes with highest quality precision. In total, months of planning, hundreds of hours of work and thousands of small mosaic glass pieces, specifically dedicated to this project, were proudly donated to the school by Albert and Karise Claramonte, I were honored to contribute this piece of art owners of Surfaces, Inc. as a centerpiece for such an important building. According to Albert Claramonte: “Donating We hope it will inspire children to focus some this beautiful glass mosaic to Miami Country of their upcoming energies on artistic pursuits.” Day offers our company the opportunity to help For more information, please contact Albert visually enhance a school which has a clear- Claramonte at Surfaces, Inc. aclaramonte@sur- cut mission to give children from the Miami faces.net, call 305-372-9787 or visit the website: area the highest quality education. Karise and www.surfaces.net. Mediterranea Introduces Flow Series

HERE is a new direction in tile design, featuring elegant looks that maintain a timeless charm.

Refined elegance is what Mediterranea delivers in its stunning all-new Flow series – taking porcelain tile design in a direction that’s star- tlingly fresh … while yet evoking the classic quality of the world most prestigious marble with matching bullnose trim. The Flow series quarries. continues Mediterranea’s design tradition – Flow uses a breakthrough inkjet manufactur- delivering a new series at the cutting edge of the ing process to create a perfect blend of design latest trends, while offering a look guaranteed and format – featuring the soft lines of the to remain in style for generations. GO with the world’s most treasured marbles, with an exqui- FLOW … by Mediterranea. site texture worthy of the great Italian sculptors. For over a decade, Mediterranea’s Italian- Made with all-new state-of-the-art 6-head inkjet based developers and craftsmen have been printing technology, Flow delivers a look and designing and producing tile in collaboration feel that could never be realized with natural with the world’s top factories in Italy, Spain, stone – a superb synthesis of directional graph- Brazil, Turkey, Argentina and the United States. ics mixed with a unique surface texture that Mediterranea has the unrivaled ability to match exceeds the latest standards for DCOF -- creat- its unique products with the right manufacturer, ing an aura of refined beauty for any residential surpassing the competition with state-of-the-art The Mediterranea Flow Series uses a breakthrough inkjet manufacturing process to create a perfect or commercial floor or wall installation. technology, competitive pricing and outstanding blend of design and format – featuring the soft lines of the world’s most treasured marbles, with an Manufactured in both 6˝x 24˝ and 12˝ x 24˝ U.S.-based customer service. exquisite texture worthy of the great Italian sculptors. Made with all-new state-of-the-art 6-head sizes, Flow is offered in three perfectly bal- Contact Mediterranea/Architectural Imports, inkjet printing technology, Flow delivers a look and feel that could never be realized with natural anced colors, Cream (beige), Pearl (white) and 3501 NW 115th Avenue, Doral, FL 33178. stone – a superb synthesis of directional graphics mixed with a unique surface texture that exceeds the latest standards for DCOF -- creating an aura of refined beauty for any residential or commer- Tusk (taupe) – designed to meet the needs of Call 305-718-5091, Fax: 305-718-5099. Email cial floor or wall installation. Manufactured in both 6˝x 24˝ and 12˝ x 24˝ sizes, Flow is offered in designers looking for that special combination [email protected] or visit them on three perfectly balanced colors, Cream (beige), Pearl (white) and Tusk (taupe) – designed to meet of practicality and style. Also available are the web for more details at www.mediterra- the needs of designers looking for that special combination of practicality and style. stunning mosaics in two different sizes, along nea-usa.com.

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Patent Pending

#1 Seller! Most Popular Sink Support

Why Pay More to Install a Sink Be the Go-To Guy to Repair Failed Installs Why pay more than $5 for a sink install kit, when While the Sink Harness was being developed and you could use the Hercules® Universal Sink Harness tested, we discovered another notable benefit of and complete your install project in minutes, with no the Sink Harness: it’s a great system to repair failed return trip needed? undermount installations. Many fabricators are asked to The Hercules® Universal Sink Harness from Braxton- repair someone else’s poor sink installation job and the Bragg is another great innovation that can save installers Hercules® Universal Sink Harness will get the job done time and money. quickly, and provide you the opportunity to be the one contractors and home owners in your area call for help. At Last, a Simple, Fast Alternative The Hercules® Universal Sink Harness is a simple, Supports the Heaviest Sink Loads ingenious alternative to expensive brackets that only Some clips and anchor systems rely on the counter top work on some installations, and a time-saving, more to support the sink–not so with the Hercules® Universal professional alternative to building a scrap wood support Sink Harness. Just like a suspension bridge, the Hercules® system to hold the sink in place while the caulk or Universal Sink Harness helps to provide support and adhesive dries. It installs without drilling into expensive over-all strength to a countertop installation. It actually countertops or cutting notches into your customer’s transfers all weight to the cabinet and doesn’t add cabinets, and without using messy epoxies or relying on additional stress to the weakest and most easily damaged adhesives to secure sinks. One of the most immediately part of the countertop: the sink cut out. It does its recognizable benefits is that you won’t have to make primary function admirably well, support the sink under a return trip to remove bracing or jury-rigged 2 x 4 the heaviest of loads. supports. You Can Even Try One for FREE! Fabricator Tested in Thousands of Installs Braxton-Bragg wants to prove it to everyone who’s The Hercules® Universal Sink Harness has been faced sink-installation problem, or just wants to save fabricator- and installation-tested under demanding money and keep their shop profitable. Call Braxton- conditions, and can be used to install the most popular Bragg and we’ll send you a Hercules® Universal Sink types of sinks, including ceramic, stainless steel, and even Harness FREE to try! Visit www.braxton-bragg.com for cast iron undermount. It is effective on either double the complete Universal Sink Harness demo. bowl or single bar steel or ceramic vanity sinks. Just See the animated video! imagine–one simple, inexpensive kit can do all of those http://www.braxton-bragg. sinks! Not only is the Hercules® Universal Sink Harness the fastest and most economical system available, it’s also com/HerculesSinkHarness the most versatile. Our Quality Guarantee We are so confident of our quality that One free Hercules® Universal we offer a 30-day, risk-free, money-back guarantee for our entire product offering. Call for a Sink Harness per customer. If you are not satisfied with your MADE IN THE USA FREE purchase, simply return it for a prompt Item # Description Everyday LOW Price and courteous refund. Sample! 17310 Hercules® Universal Sink Harness Kit $4.95

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Shop www.braxton-bragg.com for Hercules Universal Sink Harness Visit www.slipperyrockgazette.net for more Stone & Tile industry news | 18 feBruary 2014 slIppery rock GazeTTe Aaron J. Crowley Shenshoubyou Stone Industry Consultant

EPORTS of record-low tem- While the market might be improving, it is an peratures were all over the If we breathe a sigh of relief that entirely different marketplace. news recently and it makes me the economy is showing signs of The companies we used to dismiss as no wonder what it’s like to wet normalcy and assume that we can threat to our customer base might have spent polish when it’s 30 degrees below zero just settle into habits of old and the last 5 years preparing, planning, and plot- outside. Surely there are some fabrica- succeed, the blinking light of history ting to make a move on our clients! tors in the Midwest and Northeast who is flashing a warning. Speaking of clients, they are different too. could tell us! Five years ago, very few clients had ever heard of Angie’s List, but today very few haven’t. But while the world outside appears to be anyone who opposed him. Then he attacked That means clients are wiser and more wary of freezing, there are signs everywhere that the Russia with 600,000 troops assuming a con- contractors in general and aren’t satisfied with counter top climate is thawing and even warm- tinuation of his campaign. Only 10,000 troops generalities about their project or sales presen- ing up! With home prices appreciating, the returned to France. tations that don’t inform. stock market soaring, and new homes being The Japanese themselves had crushed the None of this is to say that previously prof- built, there seems to be evidence that the mar- Chinese, the Russians, and the Germans in wars itable strategies are now obsolete, but to say ket for stone counter tops may be returning to preceding World War II. Proudly assuming a that our pride must be checked, previous tactics prosperity. similar outcome, they attacked the Americans must be reconsidered, and our businesses must If that is in fact true, it is a welcome develop- at Pearl Harbor. We all know how that ended. be flexible enough to adapt. ment and a deserved one for those fabricators Now for most of us, the painful lessons of In other words we must inoculate ourselves who have literally ground out a living in the the recent past are too fresh to blindly march from Senshoubyou! stone business over the last five years. It is forward with pompous over-confidence. But So be encouraged! The sun is peaking through also a development that carries some risks we might easily fall into the trap of believing the clouds and shining bright, making it a great for leaders who might feel those old (perhaps that the same strategies that made us successful time to shed the parka and buy a new pair of forgotten) sensations of self-confidence and before the crash will serve us just as well in this sunglasses so we can make up for a long winter invincibility creeping back into their thinking. new emerging market. and soak up every ray of profit! The risk lies in the belief that past successes who experienced great successes in early cam- If we breathe a sigh of relief that the econo- ensure future victories. paigns only to suffer catastrophic defeats later my is showing signs of normalcy and assume Aaron Crowley is a stone shop owner, author, The Japanese call this Senshoubyou (sin- on because their strategies did not evolve with that we can just settle into habits of old and speaker, and consultant to mid-size stone com- SHOW-b’yoo) or “victory disease”. the changing battlefields or new enemies. succeed, the blinking light of history is flashing panies. Contact him at aaron@fabricators- Military history is full of famous warriors Napoleon marauded all over Europe crushing a warning. friend.com Lavina Training & Certification 2-Day Classes Offered March 25-26, 2014 Braxton-Bragg LLC offers training classes on Concrete For ONLY $599, this training class covers the Grinding & Polishing using Lavina Machines, Lavina understanding of overall concrete grinding and polishing Diamond Abrasives and Clemons Super Dyes. processes, selecting the right tooling, equipment and This training is designed to be a hands-on introduction to chemicals for the job, in-depth explanation of the surface polishing concrete. You will use the latest Lavina technology preparation and the concrete polishing processes, and factors as well as learn how to use dyes, densifiers and sealers. to examine when preparing bids. The class includes all This two-day, hands-on training is for contractors and materials, lunches and snacks. Training hours are 8:30 AM distributors looking to gain a knowledge and understanding to 5:00 PM. Attendees have said: “It’s the best training in of floor polishing techniques. the industry!”

Call Kurt at 877-493-0205 to reserve your place. Class size limited to 10, first come, first served.

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Register at www.braxton-bragg.com for Lavina Training Visit www.slipperyrockgazette.net for more Stone & Tile industry news | slIppery rock GazeTTe feBruary 2014 19 ELaser System Offers Incredible Speed and Accuracy

you’re looking for a fast, back walls without having to raise the tripod. accurate, and flexible, The 3D capability also makes ELaser ideal for state-of-the-art tech- measuring commercial spaces. With its built-in nology for measuring and video camera in the laser, measuring even big- designing countertops, you’re going to ger commercial spaces become simpler affairs. want to check out ETemplate Systems’ “When measuring large spaces, the video innovative ELaser™ system. becomes very important, because there’s a crosshair target built into the video that defines Integrated with the company’s powerful the measurement position of the device,” said Measure Manager™ software, this feature-rich Hansen. “That allows someone to point the The hardware – the laser unit itself – two- and three-dimensional measuring tool is device up to 150 feet into the air, and use the is self-leveling, making setup easier built to dramatically reduce the time (and num- and measurements more accurate. It video to zoom in and align that crosshair target ber of mouse clicks) needed to complete a job can be run either wired or wireless. to the position they want to measure – far more – by as much as 90%. accurately than the naked eye.” “The ELaser system uses simple ‘point-and- automatically draws the complete countertop,” The hardware – the laser unit itself – has For professionals who design cabinets as well shoot’ to measure locations,” said Paul Hansen, said Hansen, “and with all those design criteria industry-leading, incredibly useful features: it’s as countertops, the ELaser measures in both ETemplate’s president. “Our Measure Manager – including square footage of the top, square self-leveling, for example, making for easier 2D and 3D space, so it can lay out a full room, software collects those position measurements, footage of the backsplash, and linear footage setup and more accurate measurements. The adding doors, windows, outlets, and any other creating intelligent drawings automatically.” of profile edge to help them verify against their device can notify the user if it’s been bumped existing features into the plan. And that’s where “The Measure Manager software is unique estimates. Need to make a change - no problem - out of position; it actually stops you from the Measure Manager software really shines, in in that it’s not only CAD-based, but also has simply click on the feature and change the value making a measuring mistake. And it can be run taking those measurements and instantly creat- the ability to let the user establish some design and the drawing is automatically updated.” either by hand, or through the computer – wired ing drawings that can be sent from the field in criteria,” said Hansen. Chris Althouse of Odyssey Tops in or wireless. moments. A typical countertop will have overhangs and Pennsylvania recently said, “The ease of opera- “The system also has a relocation function, For those on the cutting edge, use go-to-meet- corner radiuses of certain values, or it may have tion is so simple, even a person of basic comput- so if you do need to physically move the whole ing software to link the ELaser to an office com- a backsplash that’s going to be a certain height. er skills can template a 75-square-foot kitchen device, you can do that,” said Hansen. “But puter to view, and even drive, the measurement Once set up, the software will automatically use in 30-40 minutes. One of the best features is thanks to our unique offset tool that measures process remotely. those values as design defaults – so the user the automatic compensation of wall offsets (if around a blind corner, you won’t need to move For more information about the ELaser unit doesn’t have to set them up every time. desired) for our CNC to create some buffer it very often.” and the user-friendly Measure Manager soft- “And by simply collecting two points per space for install, so as not to damage customer For countertops, the 3D capability of ELaser ware, visit ETemplateSystem.com. finished edge and three or more per wall, it drywall. The luan and gas savings is great!” allows it to easily measure cabinet faces and

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

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

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

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Shop www.braxton-bragg.com for the Edgemate 100 Visit www.slipperyrockgazette.net for more Stone & Tile industry news | 20 feBruary 2014 slIppery rock GazeTTe A Pain in the B.V.D’s February Faux Pas HERE is a special place in Sam Venable VER breakfast one morning, decided to call him George.” hell for the person(s) who a woman said to her hus- “That’s a real coincidence,” observed the invented the plastic clothing Special Contributor band, “I bet you don’t know second man. “Our daughter was born on tag holder. No matter how hard I try, I can’t what day this is?” Valentine’s Day, so we decided to call her Valentine.” OK, so maybe “clothing tag holder” isn’t keep from dropping one of the ends “Of course I do,” he answered indignantly, “That’s really incredible,” slurred the third the proper name for it, but you know what I’m when I remove them from freshly as he slammed the door and then drove to man. “Exactly the same thing happened with talking about. It’s that sliver of plastic thread laundered shirts. Hours or days later, his office. my son Groundhog.” with a fat T at both ends. One T is embedded in I discover it inside my shoes, buried At 11 o’clock, the doorbell rang. The wife ––––––––––––––––– the fabric of the clothing itself. The other T holds in the sheets, or on top of my dresser. answered, and there at her front door was a Desperately Seeking Solace the price tag in place. Surely you have seen one. I’m starting to think the evil things UPS driver; in his hand was a box contain- A couple was having marital problems. One, my foot. You’ve seen hundreds of the are breeding—you know, like one- ing 12 red roses. With Valentine’s Day approaching, they awful things, and you probably hate them as of-a-pair socks that show up in the Later, at 2 pm there was another knock at decided to consult a marriage counselor. much as I do. washing machine. the door; this time it was a deluxe box of Several visits ensued where lots of ques- I can understand why clothing manufacturers Belgian chocolates. tions were asked and lots of listening was are attracted to these little do-jiggies. Once No matter how hard I try, I can’t keep from Eventually the husband came home, tired done. Eventually the the counselor felt that implanted, they can keep a price tag in place dropping one of the ends when I remove them after a hard day’s work. His wife he had discovered the main problem. He through fires, earthquakes, floods, after-Christ- from freshly laundered shirts. Hours or days greeted him by saying, “First the stood up, went over to the women mas sales, and other natural disasters. That’s the later, I discover it inside my shoes, buried in the flowers, then the chocolates..., and, asking her to stand up, he problem. They hold on too long. After they have sheets, or on top of my dresser. I’m starting to I’ve never had a more wonderful gave her a big hug. served their purpose, they refuse to go away. think the evil things are breeding—you know, Groundhog Day in my life!” He turned to the husband and Instead, they stick around and become pests. like one-of-a-pair socks that show up in the ––––––––––––––––– said, “This is what your wife needs Didn’t kudzu start out this way? washing machine. February Fathers at least once every day.” The first time I tried to remove one of these I was walking downtown the other day when Three men were in a bar The husband frowned, consid- loathsome devices, I yanked a large pigtail of I discovered their latest hiding place. At the talking about their children. ered what had been said for yarn from the sleeve of a new sweater. Silly me. moment of this revelation, however, I wasn’t “Our son was born on a moment, then replied, I figured all I had to do was pluck the thing out thinking great thoughts of discovery. I was George Washington’s “OK, what time do and throw it away. How was I to know it was thinking I had just been bitten on the buns by a birthday,” remarked you want me to rooted deeper than a mature California redwood? poisonous spider. the first guy, “so bring her back So I tried cutting it. A subtle “yeee-iiii!” issued from my lips as I we obviously tomorrow?” One snip with fingernail clippers and the tag sprang two stories into the air. fell away. But that only compounded the prob- Falling back to the pavement, I limped to the lem. office, confident I had been maimed for life. I You see, one of the T’s was still buried deep dragged myself into the men’s room and made inside my sweater. The other dropped silently to a hasty inspection. (In a stall, of course. Even the floor where it remained—upright and invis- when a venomous spider has just sunk its four- ible—until I walked barefoot through the room inch fangs into one’s flesh, one should have the two days later. (Odd, now that I think back on it. decency to survey the damage behind closed I had no idea I could jump so high.) doors.) If tag holders only came with new clothes I To my great surprise and relief, there was no could cope; I don’t buy much clothing. But this spider in my undies. There was, however, a piece pox has infiltrated every sector of industry and of laundry tag holder. Apparently it had fallen commerce. It doesn’t matter if you purchase a from my starched shirt that morning and stowed hammer, an outboard motor, a dozen pencils or away for several hours. Then it jabbed me in the a Nike missile, that stupid plastic thread comes tush like 40-c.c.s of penicillin. with the deal. If the people responsible for visiting these Even once-worn clothing isn’t spared. If thingamajigs upon society ever run afoul of the you’ve sent anything to a commercial laundry law, they’d better hope I’m not sitting on the recently, you know what I mean. jury. These days, the people at laundries don’t identify your clothing with a marking pen or colored Sam Venable is an author, stand-up comedian, safety pin. They use those cussed plastic ribbons, and humor columnist for the Knoxville (TN) meaning you can be subjected to fits of rage on News Sentinel. He may be reached at mahv@ a weekly basis. outlook.com. Sports Quote of the Month “I went to a fight the other night, and a hockey game broke out.” Rodney Dangerfield (1921-2004) American comedian and actor Even though he was known for the catchphrase “I don’t get no respect!” – in 2007, it was reported that a Rodney Dangerfield tattoo was among the most popular celebrity tattoos in the United States.

Shop www.braxton-bragg.com for Nelson Shims Visit www.slipperyrockgazette.net for more Stone & Tile industry news | slIppery rock GazeTTe feBruary 2014 21

Shop www.braxton-bragg.com for Stone & Tile industry products Visit www.slipperyrockgazette.net for more Stone & Tile industry news | 22 feBruary 2014 slIppery rock GazeTTe

13 amp, 2100 watt Milwaukee 6117-33D NEW!

Only 3˝ Surface Space Required Uses Standard Profile Bits

Revolutionary New Aqua Base Glides on a Cushion of Water!

Finally, there’s a Stone Router that is easy to use and does not require 220 volt power. The Predator has all the power needed to quickly profile the inside of your sink as well as the edge in record time!

Another Design Breakthrough Modern Technology Power to Spare David DeLarm is at it again, taking stone David’s goal was to use modern technology to Like every other component of the Predator, the fabrication tool design to a higher level, making create a tool easier to control and use. choice of the Milwaukee 6117-33D was no things simple and affordable. accident. With a 13 amp, 2100 watt, variable The Predator will profile the edge of stone speed motor, the Predator is strong and durable. He has capitalized on innovative materials and using standard profile bits, and requires only design concepts pioneered when he created the 3” of surface to balance the tool. This allows Unlike a belt-driven router that can bog down, Raptor next-generation rail saw. the Predator to profile sink cut-outs as easily as you will be amazed at the strength of this edge profiles. Milwaukee. Even with harder to shape profiles like ogee, the Predator has power to spare! Item # Description LOW Intro Price 5365 Predator Electric Router Edge Profiling Machine Kit, Variable Speed $1,395.00 We guarantee it! Call now or visit www.braxton-bragg.com to place your order

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Shop www.braxton-bragg.com for the Predator Router Visit www.slipperyrockgazette.net for more Stone & Tile industry news | slIppery rock GazeTTe feBruary 2014 23

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

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

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Shop Braxton-bragg.com for the Original I-Brace Visit www.slipperyrockgazette.net for more Stone & Tile industry news | 24 feBruary 2014 slIppery rock GazeTTe Coverings ETC’s Award- Toad You So Winning, Innovative Bio-Glass RITONS sometimes make fun of the French for feasting on frog. But now a new discovery suggests their prehistoric ancestors may have had a taste for toad.

The University of Buckingham said Wednesday that a promising excavation The toad finding has yet to be peer-re- near Stonehenge has unearthed a host of viewed, and one expert — Bournemouth clues about the diet of prehistoric Britons. University archaeologist Tim Darvill — Among them: A tiny, partially burnt leg expressed skepticism over what he called bone which suggests the hunter-gatherers “the frog story.” living in what’s now known as the United Still, he and other outside experts voiced Kingdom snacked on amphibians. excitement about the dig where the bone The charred bone was found alongside was found, with Darvill calling it “the most the remains of fish and aurochs — the wild significant find in the Stonehenge landscape ancestor of today’s cattle — at a site called for many years.” Blick Mead in the town of Amesbury, about Andy Rhind-Tutt, a former mayor of 85 miles (135 kilometers) west of London. Amesbury and the chairman of the Amesbury Natural History Museum and University Museum and Heritage Trust, said the dig was College, London, researcher Simon Parfitt turning up thousands of flint tools and animal said that the dig had provided experts a bones, pointing to what he said may turn glimpse of a Mesolithic menu that also out to be a major prehistoric settlement just included fish, hazelnuts, berries, deer, over a mile (about 2 kilometers) from the and boar. He called the discovery of what world-famous circle of standing stones. appeared to be leftovers from a meal of roast Parfitt said the find suggests “that there’s toad “really intriguing.” more to the site than just Stonehenge. “Being English, we don’t eat frogs,” he “There’s a much deeper history to the spe- noted. cialness of that place,” he said.

It’s Mauler Time

OUTH Carolina authorities the man fell and cut himself, but couldn’t Merging subtle elegance with durability, Bio-Glass is stain proof and scratch resistant making it say a 44-year-old woman explain why her hands and clothes were also ideal for kitchen countertops, backsplashes, and wall coverings. It is available in sheet sizes mea- angry at a man for return- bloody. suring 110˝ x 50˝ x ¾˝ thick. Bio-Glass is also suitable for partitions, façades, and other decorative surfaces. It is as durable as granite and, being closed surface, is easily maintained. All of the Bio- ing home without beer on Deputies say the man said Williams was so Glass colors are 100% upcycled and made from 100% post consumer recycled glass. No colorants, Christmas, beat and stabbed him with a angry when he returned without beer because epoxies or resins are added during the manufacturing process. ceramic squirrel. stores were closed on Christmas Eve that she grabbed a ceramic squirrel, beat him in OVERINGS ETC’s Bio-Glass Merging subtle elegance with durability, Bio- The Charleston County Sheriff’s office the head, then stabbed him in the shoulder in “Topaz Blue” designed by Glass is stain proof and scratch resistant making says in a report that deputies found a man and chest. Ofer Mizrahi was bestowed it ideal for kitchen countertops, backsplashes, covered with blood when they arrived at Williams was in jail the following Friday the Interior Innovation and wall coverings. It is available in sheet sizes Helen Williams’ North Charleston home and charged with criminal domestic vio- Award-Winner 2013, the prestigious measuring 110˝ x 50˝ x ¾˝ thick. Bio-Glass is early Christmas day. She told investigators lence. It wasn’t known if she had a lawyer. international design award of the also suitable for partitions, façades, and other German Design Council. decorative surfaces. It is as durable as granite and, being closed surface, is easily maintained. This award follows on from our “Red Dot The German Design Council and IMM Award: Product Design” Award and under- Cologne – the competition’s conceptual sponsor Mallards of Leisure scores Coverings ETC’s commitment to devel- – annually select the most innovative high-end oping unique solutions that blend design, sus- creations for their exceptional product design. group of ducks retiring Master Distiller Jeff Arnett to a new home in tainability, and functionality. Launched in 2002 As the winner, Bio-Glass in “Topaz Blue” was from service at Memphis’ a pond just below the distillery’s cave spring. by IMM Cologne, the annual awards recognizes presented at the IMM Cologne – International Peabody Hotel has moved There, the ducks will eat the same grain and outstanding design in the home furnishings Furnishings Show which took place January to Lynchburg, Tenn. drink the same iron-free water used to make industry. 13-19, 2014 – in a dedicated display. Following Jack Daniel’s whiskey. Bio-Glass received the “Interior Innovation this event, the jury met again to select 15 of the According to a news release from Jack Legend has it that the 80-year-old tradition Award – Winner 2014” distinction in the “Wall, winners and confer them the Interior Innovation Daniel’s, Peabody ducks generally retire of letting ducks swim in the Peabody foun- Floor, Ceiling” products category. Topaz Blue, Award – Best of Best 2014. to the farm where they were raised. But tain is linked to Jack Daniel’s, in a round- is the latest color to the Bio-Glass collection. Coverings ETC is a US company based in in a recent ceremony, one group walked about way. Supposedly, the Peabody general All of the Bio-Glass colors are 100% upcycled Miami, FL with widespread distribution. For down red and black carpets following manager left his live duck decoys in and made from 100% post consumer recycled more information contact info@coveringsetc. Peabody Duckmaster Anthony the hotel fountain after enjoying a glass. No colorants, epoxies or resins are added com or visit www.coveringsetc.com. Petrina and Jack Daniel’s little of the whiskey on a hunting trip. during the manufacturing process.

Shop www.braxton-bragg.com for Stone & Tile industry products Visit www.slipperyrockgazette.net for more Stone & Tile industry news | slIppery rock GazeTTe feBruary 2014 25 Marble Institute of America Elects New Directors for 2014 HE Marble Institute of America has announced the results of its Board of Directors voting that con- cluded November 22, 2013.

David Carnevale of Carnevale & Lohr, Inc. (Bell Gardens, CA), Brenda Edwards of TexaStone Quarries (Garden City, TX), and Robert Zavagno, Jr. of Cleveland Marble Mosaic Co. (Cleveland, OH) have been elect- ed by the MIA membership to serve 5 year David Carnevale Brenda Edwards Robert Zavagno, Jr. terms. Carnevale will represent Zone 7, which Brenda Edwards has been Owner/General Pension Fund, as well as the Health & Welfare suppliers committed to the highest standards of represents Alaska, California, Hawaii, Nevada, Manager of TexaStone Quarries for 21 years. Fund, and the Apprenticeship Fund, along with workmanship and ethics. Oregon, and Washington. Edwards will rep- She served on the Building Stone Institute serving as a judge for Bricklayer Apprentice MIA offers an industry accreditation program resent Zone 5, which represents Arkansas, board of directors for 12 years, the Natural competitions. for fabricators and installers, markets a range of Louisiana, Mississippi, Oklahoma, and Texas. Stone Council board of directors for 8 years Each of the 3 new Board of Directors’ terms technical publications and consumer pamphlets Zavagno will be filling an At-Large position on and was selected to fulfill a vacated seat on the will commence during the MIA Annual Business on natural stone, sponsors business and techni- the Board. A record number of voters participat- MIA board 2 years ago. Presently, TexaStone Meeting held during StonExpo/Marmomacc cal meetings and seminars on industry-related ed in this open member election which included Quarries is one of the pilot companies trying Americas in Las Vegas, NV. topics, provides educational programming for a record ten candidates. to achieve certification of the ANSI NSC 373 architects and construction specification pro- David Carnevale is part of the 3rd generation Sustainable Stone Standard. Brenda replaces About the Marble Institute of America fessionals, and conducts the annual Pinnacle of the Carnevale family to be involved in the Rodney Harvey of Curtain Wall Design & Headquartered in Cleveland, Ohio, the Marble Awards competitions recognizing outstanding stone industry in the United States. David began Consulting. Institute of America (MIA) has served as the natural stone projects worldwide. working with stone in 1979. He has worked as a Robert Zavagno, Jr. is President of the authoritative source of information on standards MIA is also a leading promoter of stone usage shopman, draftsman, installer, estimator, project Cleveland Marble Mosaic Company. He has of natural stone workmanship and practice and in the commercial and residential marketplaces, manager, and consultant. Currently President at been with his firm for 27 years. Robert’s stone the application of natural stone products for 70 producing consumer education materials on Carnevale & Lohr, Inc. in Los Angeles, David industry involvement has included sponsoring years. the use of natural stone and its proper care and has been an ardent supporter of the MIA since the MIA Pinnacle Awards luncheon, Building Membership in the association is worldwide maintenance. More information can be found he attended his first MIA convention in 1987. Stone Institute Board, as well as serving the and includes over 1,600 natural stone producers, on the association’s website: http://www.mar- David replaces Michael Twiss of Columbia Construction Employers Association. Robert exporters/importers, distributors/wholesalers, ble-institute.com. Stone. serves as the Chairman of the Bricklayers’ fabricators, finishers, installers, and industry Makita® Xtract NEW! 12 Gallon Wet/Dry Shop Vac

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Shop www.braxton-bragg.com for Makita XTRACT Visit www.slipperyrockgazette.net for more Stone & Tile industry news | 26 feBruary 2014 slIppery rock GazeTTe The National Kitchen & Bath Association Announces 2014 President and Executive Committee

HE National Kitchen & Bath Association (NKBA), the premier association for kitchen and bath professionals, announced the 2014 Executive Committee, which will be led by 2014 President John A. Petrie, CMKBD, of Mechanicsburg, PA.

Maria Stapperfenne, CKD, CBD, of Whitehouse Station, NJ, will serve as 2014 President-Elect, while Ric Coggins, CGP, CAPS, NCT, of Mesa, AZ, will assume the President – John A. Petrie President-Elect – Maria Stapperfenne Vice President – Ric Coggins Vice President position. Denise Dick, CMKBD, of Carrollton, TX, was named Treasurer, and Debra Robinson, CMKBD, of Sheffield, AL, will hold the position of 2014 Secretary. John K. Morgan of Reisterstown, MD, will serve as Immediate Past President. Following is additional information on each of the 2014 NKBA Executive Committee members: President– John A. Petrie, CMKBD, Mother Hubbard’s Custom Cabinetry, Mechanicsburg, PA John A. Petrie, CMKBD, has been working Treasurer – Denise Dick Secretary – Debra Robinson Immediate Past President – John K. Morgan in the kitchen and bath industry since 1987, designing custom kitchens, bathrooms, home Vice President – Ric Coggins, CGP, CAPS, and Chapter Representative. Denise was judged multiple design contests and charrettes. offices, wine cellars and home theaters. His NCT, Bosch, Thermador, Gaggenau Home also a judge for the local NARI Contractor Immediate Past President – John K. Morgan, early education was in architectural design, Appliances, Mesa, AZ of the Year Awards. She has served on the Morgan Pinnacle LLC, Reisterstown, MD but his defining specialty and advanced train- Ric Coggins, CGP, CAPS, NCT, has been national NKBA level as a Region Director, Having been a featured conference speaker at ing have been in kitchens and baths. He is the connected to several aspects of the kitchen and member of the Board of Directors, the previous Kitchen and Bath Industry Shows and owner of Mother Hubbard’s Custom Cabinetry bath industry since the 1970s. His industry expe- Education Task Force, the CKBP Certification invited to speak at over 100 industry events, in Mechanicsburg, PA. John has served the rience includes designing kitchens and baths in Committee, the CKBP Exam Blueprint John Morgan is well-respected for his work Susquehanna Valley Chapter of the NKBA as new-construction homes, owning a dealership Specification Committee, and as a test writer helping kitchen and bath professionals evolve Treasurer, Vice President of Communications, that sold and serviced kitchen appliances, man- for the CKBP exam. their businesses through the latest in technol- President, and Chapter Representative. During aging operations in multiple states for a regional Secretary – Debra Robinson, CMKBD, ogy. He is a 20-year kitchen and bath veteran. his tenure on the NKBA Board of Directors, he kitchen appliance distributor, and for the past Kitchen Expressions, Sheffield, AL A manufacturer’s representative, consultant, has served on numerous committees and chaired 10 years, working for the international appli- Debra Hensley Robinson, CMKBD, is the trainer and speaker, he has served on the advi- several task forces. John and his father, Les ance manufacturer BSH, advancing through a principal of Kitchen Expressions Inc., locat- sory councils of many industry manufacturers Petrie, CMKBD, have both been leaders in the number of sales and marketing roles. German- ed in north Alabama, and brings more than as well as Virginia Tech. Morgan authored the NKBA, with Les serving as President in 2003. trained in adult education techniques, Ric is a 26 years of national and international kitchen popular “Rep’s View” column in Kitchen & This distinction marks the first-ever, father-and- national speaker and CEU presenter. His NKBA and bathroom design expertise. In addition to Bath Design News for nearly a decade, and cur- son presidencies for NKBA. service includes holding the chapter offices serving as an independent kitchen and bath rently represents nationally known cabinet and President-Elect – Maria Stapperfenne, of Strategic Planning Chair, VP Programs, designer in Houston, Robinson has worked as a technology companies through his Baltimore/ CKD, CBD, Tewksbury Kitchens & Baths, and Chapter President. His NKBA national design director for Expo Design Center in that Washington-based agency, Morgan Pinnacle. In Whitehouse Station, NJ volunteer service includes Green Task Force, city and as an adjunct faculty member at the 2013, John Morgan proudly served the kitchen Maria Stapperfenne, CKD, CBD, started her International Ad Hoc Committee, Advisory University of North Alabama. She earned her and bath community as the NKBA President. career in kitchens and baths in 1992, becom- Council of Manufacturers and Suppliers, and Certified Kitchen Designer designation in 1995, ing a Certified Kitchen Designer in 2005 and Board of Directors. her Certified Bathroom Designer accreditation About The National Kitchen a Certified Bath Designer in 2006. She is the Treasurer – Denise Dick, CMKBD, in 2006, and her Certified Master Kitchen & & Bath Association Manager of Tewksbury Kitchens & Baths, a Signature Kitchens by Design, Carrollton, Bath Designer designation in 2009. She has The National Kitchen & Bath Association division of Huston Lumber & Supply Co. She TX helped lead the NKBA Ohio and Alabama (NKBA) is a nonprofit trade association that has a Bachelor of Arts from Trenton State Denise Dick, CMKBD, has been active chapters in such roles as VP of Endorsed owns the Kitchen & Bath Industry Show College. Maria has been active in the Northern in the kitchen and bath industry since 1984 Programs, VP of Professional Development, (KBIS®). With nearly 50,000 members, the NJ Chapter, serving as President, Secretary, VP as a designer, trainer, training development and Chapter Representative. At the national NKBA has educated and led the kitchen and of Technology & Communications, and Chapter writer and consultant. In 2002, she opened level, Robinson served as Treasurer of the 2013 bath industry since its founding in 1963. The Representative. She has served as a Region Signature Kitchens by Design, a full-service Executive Committee, Region Director, mem- mission of the NKBA is to enhance member Director, member of the Board of Directors, conceptual design agency that offers design, ber of the Board of Directors, Board of Chapter success and excellence, promote professional- Certification Test Validation Committee, planning and comprehensive management Representatives, Membership Task Force, ism and ethical business practices, and provide Nominating Committee, Industry Segment Task of remodeling projects. She has been active Chapter Funding Task Force, and the CEO leadership and direction for the kitchen and bath Force, Development Task Force, Governance in her NKBA chapter from the beginning, Search Committee, as well as several other com- industry worldwide. Task Force, and most recently as a judge for the serving as President, VP of Technology and mittees. Over the years she has won numerous For more information, visit the NKBA Press NKBA Design Competition. Communications, VP of Membership, Secretary awards, been featured in trade publications, and Room or call 1-800-THE-NKBA (843-6522).

Shop www.braxton-bragg.com for Stone & Tile industry products Visit www.slipperyrockgazette.net for more Stone & Tile industry news | slIppery rock GazeTTe feBruary 2014 27 The PERFECT color match to ANY quartz product Akemi Colour Bond Cartridge Adhesives

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

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Shop www.braxton-bragg.com for Akemi Colour Bond Visit www.slipperyrockgazette.net for more Stone & Tile industry news | 28 feBruary 2014 slIppery rock GazeTTe Registration for Coverings’ Hey, Where’s My Lunch?

25th Exposition Still Open burrito caused a minor scare The Oklahoman reports that officers told at an Oklahoma City police the man to leave the container outside and NLINE registration for Vegas Hotel, Residence Inn by Marriott briefing station after a man the police bomb squad X-rayed the item. Coverings 2014, the largest Convention Center and Springhill Suites brought the foil-wrapped The analysis determined that it was only a international tile and stone Convention Center. Attendees can reserve their object in for analysis. burrito. exposition and conference, hotel rooms, and register for Coverings, all Although it was harmless, police aren’t that returns to Las Vegas from April through the Coverings registration site: http:// Oklahoma City Police Capt. Dexter laughing at the incident. Nelson says anyone 29—May 2, 2014 has been open since early registration3.experientevent.com/showTIL141. Nelson says a man discovered a Thermos- who finds a suspicious object should call October. “As we celebrate the 25th Anniversary of type container in his lawn one afternoon and authorities — not bring it to a police station Coverings, we’re exceptionally proud to be the brought it to a police briefing station. Nelson themselves. Coverings 2014 marks the return of the only show that can offer the breadth and depth says the container was heavy and had tinfoil super show and conference to the West coast, of tile and stone exhibitors from around the protruding from the lid, so the man consid- Source: The Oklahoman, this time in the South Halls of the Las Vegas globe, coupled with a truly significant educa- ered it suspicious. http://www.newsok.com Convention Center. The show is anticipated tional offering for every segment of the tile and to offer more than 900 exhibitors representing stone industry,” said Karin Fendrich, Coverings more than 35 countries, in addition to a robust show director. “What’s more, we pride our- program of CEU accredited seminars, demon- selves on holding an event that is at no cost to Wedding Days to Remember strations and networking opportunities – all at our attendees including: the exhibit floor, all of AS Vegas wedding chapels licenses is nowhere near what it was during no cost. the valuable CEU conferences sessions, work- were seeing a spike in the record-breaking days before July 7, Early registration provides attendees with shops and demonstrations, featured speakers traffic as couples 2007, when the calendar turned advance notice and access to conference events and many of our networking events. tried to land a up lucky triple sevens. and sessions, contests and promotions, as “Coverings provides a wealth of information memorable 11/12/13 wedding But she says couples tend well as discount travel and hotel packages and the business-building resources companies date. to gravitate toward dates like arranged by Coverings through a large variety need to be successful when it comes to the tile 11/12/13 that are easy to remember, or of hotel partners including: Bally’s Casino and stone industry. It’s a truly amazing value The Clark County clerk’s that fall near a three-day weekend. Resort, Bellagio Las Vegas Hotel, Courtyard by that all architects, designers, tile and stone office issued 1,399 marriage licenses in the Unusual weddings around Sin City on Marriott Convention Center, Flamingo Hotel, retailers and showrooms, wholesalers, installers four days leading up to that Tuesday. That November 12 included a couple who got Harrah’s Hotel Las Vegas, Las Vegas Hotel and contractors, and builders and developers, was a 28 percent increase from the same married on a motorcycle, and another pair (LVH), Las Vegas Marriott Hotel Convention have continued to take advantage of for the past four-day period the previous year. who had a six-tier wedding cake made out Center, Paris Las Vegas, Renaissance Las 25 years.” Clerk Diana Alba says the number of of hamburgers. Hands-On Polishing Pro Class to be held at Braxton-Bragg Learn to remove SURFACE scratches from polished granite, marble … and quartz! SAVE thousands of dollars.

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Register at www.braxton-bragg.com for SPPS Training Visit www.slipperyrockgazette.net for more Stone & Tile industry news | slIppery rock GazeTTe feBruary 2014 29 “Boomer” Winfrey The Varmint County Chronicles Varmint County Correspondent Haigs Not to Be the Next “Duck Dynasty” as Good Old Boy Paradise Nears Its End IMES, they are a changin’! be a female heading up this clan. Your niece At least some folks in Penny is now my heir.” Varmint County have “Pa, how can a danged female be a patri- been singing that old song arch? That don’t make no sense,” Little Poison recently, as the political and cultural whined. landscape appeared in for some shocks in “Well, you’ve proven you can’t be trusted. early 2014. Besides, this title generally goes to the stron- gest man. Penny is six foot six and can whup The first big change turned out to be a false any three men in the county. She’s the stron- alarm, as Varmint County almost bid farewell gest, man or woman, and that’s the end of it,” to one of our most venerable citizens and one of Elijah proclaimed. “TV reality show! Be thank- my favorite subjects as a reporter for the local ful I don’t exile you to Afghanistan, or rag, the War Whoop & Exterminator. worse still, Burrville!” The flu bug hit Varmint County hard this So with the anointment of Penny as winter, a particularly nasty strain that some Elijah Haig’s heir, Varmint County’s tran- suspect was brought in by some of the Yankees sition from a good old boy’s paradise who winter-out on Mud Lake. It hit the schools seemed nearly complete. The women first, then began to spread among adults. have in fact, taken over, it would seem. “I blame this epidemic on a shortage of One exception to the trend is in the good moonshine,” Doc Filstrup told his poker Sheriff’s Department, for close to a hundred buddies at the weekly game. “Used to be, years the personal fiefdom of the Bandit fam- most Varmint County males were well-fortified survive.” old basketball coach, rushed to Burrville to ily. When Sheriff Smoky finally retired, his against viruses.” “That’s disgusting. This is 2014, not 1864. warn Penny that her uncle was planning to turn chief deputy Hiram Potts took over, but quickly “Yeah, no bacteria or virus could survive in Those men all act like they’re still fighting the her family into TV reality stars. married Smoky’s daughter Stephanie, making the presence of good Haig Hollow Spring Run, Civil War.” “Over my dead body!” Granny Haig pro- him family as well. and most men kept that in their systems all win- “Well dear, there’s a lot of power and pres- claimed. “That’s it, the end of all this non- Now, with election year looming, the female ter,” Colonel Hugh Ray Jass observed. tige at sake, along with dibs on living in the sense. My boy might be dying, but I’m still revolution is challenging even this bastion of “Have you heard? Old Elijah Haig, patriarch mansion Elijah built with that guv’mint money the Matriarch of the Haig Clan and my word red-blooded Varmint County manhood. of the clan, is down with pneumonia and they from selling moonshine to the Air Force. Haigs is law. I’m gonna break with tradition and It all happened rather quickly. Stephanie don’t know if he will survive,” Archie Aslinger aren’t immune from greed, it seems.” appoint a female to head up the clan if Elijah Bandit, as Hiram’s chief deputy and right- added. In fact Cornelius “Little Poison” Haig, don’t make it through. Penny, you’re now the hand woman, shared responsibilities with her “Yeah, I had Elijah admitted to the hospital Elijah’s only surviving son and owner of the heir-apparent.” husband and boss for supervising the dozens of over at Burrville last weekend,” Doc explained. Dead Rat Tavern, was already acting like the “Gawd no, Granny. I don’t want that respon- deputies, jailers and clerks that strive to main- “He had tried to keep working his livestock and clan patriarch. That very day, Corney was sibility!” tain law and order in the county. tending his still despite running a temperature sitting down with lawyer Philbert McSwine in “And you won’t have to take it, granddaugh- For the four years of Hiram’s first term in of 103, and it got in his lungs. Double pneumo- Philbert’s law office to discuss business. ter. I’m not dead yet by a long shot,” Elijah office, this sharing of home life and duties nia has laid the old man low.” “Philbert, I’ve been approached by some fel- suddenly announced from his bed. worked well, until daughter Gracie was born a Elijah’s condition was so bad, in fact, that las from one of them cable television networks. “Grandpa, you’re awake! You sound stron- few years back. Stephanie shifted to supervis- many Haigs did not expect him to live. His Seems the old boy in that Duck Dynasty series ger,” Penny exclaimed. ing the day shift while Hiram worked nights granddaughter Penny even took a leave from has gone and got himself in hot water with all “Yep, Granny’s potions seem to have helped so his wife could be at home with their young coaching the Lady Viper basketball team to sit the liberals and they’re looking to replace that some, but that news about Little Poison talking daughter. at the old man’s bedside 24 hours a day, while outfit with another redneck, tobacco-chewing, with those TV people really got the old ticker Last summer, Stephanie Bandit discovered many of the younger Haigs began maneuvering hard-drinking family for a new reality show. running strong,” Elijah coughed out. “I reckon that the night shift wasn’t all that Sheriff Potts to see who would become the next patriarch Somebody suggested they contact the Haig I’m going to have to get well so I can go beat was supervising. There was also a certain blond if Elijah passed on to that big feud in the sky. Clan, but Elijah’s on his death bed and nobody some sense into that fool son of mine!” former cheerleader named Isabelle Pinetar, “Granny, you shouldn’t be here. It’s too risky can negotiate a contract.” Corney Haig was just sitting down with niece of our newspaper’s very own office for you to be out in this weather and hospitals “You could sign a tentative contract, if you’re Lawyer McSwine and representatives from Fox manager Fluvia Pinetar, the sister of Mud Lake are full of germs,” Penny exclaimed as Granny sure Granny Haig will name you as Elijah’s Real Life Television, in the rear of the Dead Marina operator Ike Pinetar. Haig came through the door to Elijah’s room. heir once the old man’s gone. Then it’s just a Rat Tavern, when a loud hum arose from the It was not long before wagging tongues car- “Can’t help it dear. I’ve got to pull my boy matter of making the funeral arrangements and bar’s patrons. In walked Elijah Haig, support- ried the rumors to Stephanie, who caught her through this sickness for the good of every- you can bring in the camera crews,” Philbert ed on one side by Penny and on the other by husband supervising Isabelle at a houseboat on body. His no-count younger brother Jebediah assured Corney. “Come to think of it, wouldn’t Gabby Aslinger. The old man calmly walked Mud Lake. and my even more useless grandson, your that make a perfect pilot episode, covering the to the table of lawyers and network execu- “Are you going to leave me? The Sheriff Uncle Cornelius, are about to start a war over funeral of the Clan Patriarch. All the Haigs tives, pulled out an 18-inch skinning knife and asked his wife after she dumped poor Isabelle who will take over the clan and the Haig busi- from Louisiana will be in, along with your plunged it through the pile of contract papers in the lake, tossing her clothes after her. ness enterprises if Elijah don’t make it.” entire clan and the Hockmeyers as well. What resting on the table. “Nope. Not unless I catch you cheating “I thought that was your call, as Matriarch a show that’ll be!” “You’ve got 20 minutes to get out of the again,” Stephanie replied. “For the sake of our of the Clan,” Penny pointed out. “Doesn’t Philbert, never one to honor attorney-client county before I feed you to my pet alligator. little girl, I’ll forgive you this one time, but tradition demand that the eldest female always privilege, soon was blabbing Cornelius Haig’s Old Gnash hasn’t tasted lawyer in close to three I won’t forget, and I will teach you a lesson names the leader of the family?” big plans to everybody down at the courthouse. years now,” Elijah told the TV folks.. about keeping your vows.” “True, my dear, but some of the boys reck- Judge Hard Time Harwell told Doc Filstrup, As the network executives were rushing for “What kind of lesson?” on that I can’t appoint someone who’s dead. who in turn told Archie Aslinger. Archie soon the door, Elijah turned to his son. “That’s pretty “Next election, I’m running for Sheriff. They’ll be bushwhackin’ each other until let his daughter, County Executive Gabby much it for you, Corney. Granny has decided We’ll see how you like the shoe being on the there’s only one left standing if Elijah don’t Aslinger, in on the secret. Gabby, Penny Haig’s that when my time does finally come, there will other foot!”

Shop www.braxton-bragg.com for Stone & Tile industry products Visit www.slipperyrockgazette.net for more Stone & Tile industry news | 30 feBruary 2014 slIppery rock GazeTTe Braxton-Bragg Offers Eliminate Bouncing New Akemi Stone & Chipping Impregnation Remover Joel Davis Caused by Metal or Special Contributor Carbide Cup Wheels

Akemi Stone Impregnation Remover is designed to remove stains caused by impregnations and ® lacquer residue on natural stone, concrete, ashlar, and clinker. Because of its gel-like consistency, The Viper 30 Grit Bites like a Cup Wheel, the remover is suitable for horizontal surfaces such as floors and table tops and vertical surfaces such as facades and wall coverings. Akemi Stone Impregnation Remover is not for use on marble, Smooths like a Polishing Pad. limestone, or artificial stone. Viper® 30 Grit Polishing Pads have the chops to remove stock, shape edges and prepare cut stone to begin the polishing process. This RAXTON-BRAGG is offering remove topical products. “Akemi Wax Stripper the power of a fresh start is recommended for any topical enhancer or grit will remove the deepest scratches. Unlike metal or carbide cup to fabricators with the new sealer.” wheels, chipping and bouncing is practically eliminated. You’ll be Akemi Stone Impregnation Akemi Stone Impregnation Remover has a able to move on to the polishing process in no time. Remover, developed to give a clean slate three-year shelf life and is biodegradable. It is for new treatments. a concentrated, highly alkaline cleaning agent, Landis said. The ultimate product to remove all penetrat- It can remove enhancing products such as ing stone impregnators, sealers, or enhancers, agers and darkeners that did not give the desired Akemi Stone Impregnation Remover requires enhancing effect. It can remove all deep-pen- no scrubbing. It is strong enough to remove the etrating products. The only tool required is a YOU best stone treatments and is optimal for resto- brush to remove the product from the stone sur- ration projects as it can be used to effectively faces when the stripping process is complete. strip new, uneven, or old treatments. Akemi Stone Impregnation Remover is SAVE “It removes both penetrating enhancers and designed to remove stains caused by impreg- sealers from natural stone by using an easy-to- nations and lacquer residue on natural stone, % apply method that works with water to activate concrete, ashlar, and clinker. it,” said Andrew Landis, sales manager for Because of its gel-like consistency, the 34 InnoChem LLC, a member of The AKEMI remover is suitable for horizontal surfaces such Group. “It can remove both solid-based and as floors and table tops and vertical surfaces water-based impregnators and enhancers. It such as façades and wall coverings. Akemi provides excellent cover up to 200 square feet Stone Impregnation Remover is not for use on per liter.” marble, limestone, or artificial stone. Akemi Stone Impregnation Remover is in a Braxton-Bragg offers a full range of fabrica- class by itself and has no real equivalent in the tion tooling and installation accessories includ- Item # Description MSRP OUR Price marketplace, Landis said. “There are strippers, ing sinks, installation hardware, and every tool 11051 Viper ® Granite Wet Polishing Pad, 4˝, 30 Grit, Purple $22.95 $14.95 but they need to be neutralized. There are a lot and piece of equipment needed to run a profes- of details to that. It is easy to use and cleaned sional stone, tile, and polished concrete shop. up by water.” For more information about Braxton-Bragg 800-575-4401 The product will serve to remove Akemi and its publications and products, contact them stone impregnation products and enhancers toll-free at 800-575-4401 or visit the website BETTER PRODUCTS! FASTER SERVICE! as well as those of competing manufacturers, www.braxton-bragg.com for current sales and CHEAPER PRICES! Landis said, although it is not designed to new products.

Shop www.braxton-bragg.com for Viper 30 grit Visit www.slipperyrockgazette.net for more Stone & Tile industry news | slIppery rock GazeTTe feBruary 2014 31 Omni Cubed Launches New and Improved Amy Livingston Transport Cart Line for 2014 Special Contributor

TONE tool manufacturer Photos Courtesy Omni Cubed Omni Cubed is known for regularly launching new and innovative products for the stone industry, typically several new products per year.

This year is planned to be no exception for the company, as they are kicking off 2014 with FOUR new carts: new models of their all-terrain AT1 and AT2 Pro-Carts, a new model of the low-profile Pro-Dolly™ called the Pro- Dolly™ HD1, and an all new low-profile dolly called the Pro-Dolly™ HD2. At a first glance of this new product line, one notable difference are the new, grey, flat-free, non-marking polyurethane tires – just one of excellent shock absorption – all the benefits the many features you will find in these carts. of pneumatic tires without the maintenance To answer the question you may be asking at requirements. this point, “Why do they have FOUR different The HD2 (Omni Cubed’s most heavy-duty transport carts?” Each cart has been designed dolly in the “smallest package”) weighs only with a unique set of specifications and for dif- 35 pounds, yet has a rated capacity of 1,000 ferent uses. Overall, the Pro-Dollys are smaller pounds (2,000 pounds when used in pairs). The carts that sit very close to the ground, and are dolly features the same type of tires as the HD1 often used in pairs for large, tall countertops (flat-free, closed-cell polyurethane tires), but in (two Pro-Dolly™ HD2s can handle tops weigh- a larger 10˝ size. ing up to 2,000 pounds!). Unique to the HD2 model is an integrated In contrast, the Pro-Carts are larger carts that machined aluminum handle for ease of carrying have been designed to sit higher off the ground and placement, and an oversized clamp opening for increased maneuverability in “all-terrain” that enables the HD2 to accommodate thicker situations, such as when there is the need for countertops (up to 5˝ thick), such as tops with “popping wheelies” and rolling over curbs, or miter laminated edges. when the dreaded trip up stairs is required (the The Pro-Cart AT1 (“AT1”) and the Pro-Cart Pro-Carts are designed to enable “resting” on AT2 (“AT2”) are Omni Cubed’s “all-terrain” stairs to make the process safer and less strenu- installation carts which provide a solution to ous for installers). the challenges associated with large and cum- Four different carts may seem unnecessary bersome countertop installation carts. for some manufacturers, but for Omni Cubed, The carts are constructed from aluminum this complete product line exemplifies their tubing, so they are very strong and lightweight; focus on making sure the customer has what the AT1 weighs less than 50 pounds and the they need in order to handle every type of AT2 weighs less than 65 pounds. Important for install situation they may face. climbing stairs, the carts stay attached to the countertops when lifted and the casters allow Features and Benefits resting on stair treads. Pro-Dollys are often used in pairs (two HD2s can handle tops up to 2,000 pounds!). The Pro-Dolly™ HD1 (“HD1”) and the Pro- The non-marking, flat-free, closed-cell poly- Dolly™ HD2 (“HD2”) provide easier transport urethane tires dampen vibrations and enable and installation of countertops, and as men- travel across rough terrain such as gravel or tioned above, are especially helpful when used lawns with ease. The carts’ high ground-clear- in pairs for very tall, extremely heavy, or extra- ance allows you to “pop wheelies” over larger large countertops. These aluminum-framed dol- curbs, and in many cases, one person can oper- lies feature lightweight and compact designs, as ate the carts by themselves. well as support rails that are lined with durable Tops are secured by clamps located on each rubber to prevent chipping. Also, countertops side of the cutout to reduce breakage in the are secured with integrated clamps, which middle. The wheelbase on both carts is wide is very useful when lifting (the dollies stay enough to make the carts very stable, but they attached). still fit on truck ramps and enable maneuvering The HD1 weighs only 21 pounds, yet has a through very tight spaces. rated capacity of 750 pounds (1,500 pounds Both carts are also designed to fold down when used in pairs). This low-profile dolly for easier storage. The AT1 has a rated weight (only 5.38˝ from the support rail surface to capacity of 750 pounds and features 8˝ casters; the ground) allows installers to roll tall tops the AT2 has a rated weight capacity of 1,000 through doorways. pounds and features 10˝ casters. The dolly features 8˝, non-marking, flat-free, Integrated clamps are on each cart to keep countertops secure. closed-cell polyurethane tires which exhibit Continued on page 33

Shop www.braxton-bragg.com for Omni Cubed Pro Cart AT-2 and more Visit www.slipperyrockgazette.net for more Stone & Tile industry news | 32 feBruary 2014 slIppery rock GazeTTe

“Thanks, Braxton-Bragg, for all of your help. You really do go above and beyond what your job requires and I appreciate that greatly! YOU Thanks for everything. I’m a customer for life.”

SAVE Jesse Arnzen % Zen Stoneworks 33 Lewiston, Indiana

Talon™ Dry Core Bit 3 No drill press required 3 10,000 RPM dry Item # Description MSRP OUR Price 5187 Talon™ Dry Core Bit, 1-3/8˝ $89.95 $59.95 3 3,000 RPM wet Talon™ Dry Core Bit Delivers a Clean Hole in 30 Seconds, Time After Time

Is 30 Seconds Fast Enough for You? Priced Right How often do you think about core bits? For the best results in dry conditions, 10,000 The Talon™ line of core bits is value-priced. Probably never. After all, you have a business to RPM is recommended. This high RPM will keep Compare to any quality core bit on the market and run. However, if your core bit fails, takes too long the diamonds and bond cool and allow the core bit you will see savings right away. The cost should to do the job, or blows out the stone, this everyday to do all the work. also be measured by looking at the number of holes item becomes a problem. Or does your core bit have that can be produced. After all, what you are really a hidden deficiency of coring too few holes? Long Life buying is the result of your tools. With the 1-3/8˝ The Talon™ Dry Core Bit provides exceptional Talon™ Dry Core Bit, the cost per hole is a little Ultimate Speed—Wet or Dry life. You can expect to core 50-60 holes with the more than one dollar. These results are under real You can core a hole in only 30 seconds with dry core bit, and as many as 100 with the wet working conditions. Talon™ Dry Core Bits. Using the recommended core bit, and this can be done using a grinder or A core bit should be taken for granted, and the speeds (10,000 RPM for Talon™ Dry Core Bit), polisher. Why? Quality diamonds, correct bond, Talon™ Dry Core Bit will help you to do this. Your allows the bit to cut through granite in just half and the side diamonds design are key elements that satisfaction is guaranteed with this product. We a minute, leaving a smooth hole with little to no protect the segment weld from premature wear and believe you will experience the same results that chipping. release. make the Talon™ Dry Core Bit one of our most This incredible cutting speed is produced by using popular product lines. the best-suited bond to the application. In a wet environment, using a water-fed tool at 3,000 RPM will produce the best cutting speed and cleanest result.

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

BETTER PRODUCTS! FASTER SERVICE! CHEAPER PRICES!

Shop www.braxton-bragg.com for Talon Dry Core BIts Visit www.slipperyrockgazette.net for more Stone & Tile industry news | slIppery rock GazeTTe feBruary 2014 33 Omni Cubed 2014 Cart Line

Continued from page 31 cart width to less than 13 inches wide. The AT2 has a few additional features, such In conclusion and as exemplified by this as collapsible clamp uprights for easy counter- new cart line-up, Omni Cubed is passionate top removal and tilting of large stone pieces about providing detailed, complete, and inno- onto cabinets. In addition, climbing stairs with vative product lines, so that fabricators are fully the AT2 is even easier due to the innovative equipped to select what is best suited for their adjustable wheel base: the distance between the business needs. Pro-Cart AT1 (all-terrain cart) cart’s front and back wheels has 4˝ of sliding As part of this goal, the company now offers a adjustment to match the varying pitch of stair more complete transport cart system and shops treads. should have no trouble finding the right cart to For ease of storage and sliding down the cen- complete their “essential tools for 2014” collec- ter of A-frames, the included folding kit (along tion. For more information, visit their website with the collapsible uprights) enables folding of www.omnicubed.com the AT2 into a very compact design and reduces

Pro-Cart AT2 (all-terrain cart)

Pro-Dolly™HD1 (low-profile dolly) Pro-Dolly™HD2 (low-profile dolly)

Pro-Cart AT2 folded down for easy storage

Is your crew ALL WET?

Pro-Dolly™HD2 accommodates tops up to 5 inches thick (large clamp opening). Keep your crew WARM Right: Pro-Dolly™HD2 features a new, built-in and Working this winter! carrying handle.

Get the ORIGINAL Stone Sleeve™ Fabricator’s Sleeve

Soft rubber cuff fits closely around the wrist for a water-tight seal.

Available from

Fabricators often combine Omni Cubed products (Aqua-Jaw™ Carry Vise ™ and Pro-Dolly™ HD2). 800-575-4401 www.braxton-bragg.com

Shop www.braxton-bragg.com for Fabricators Friend Stone Sleeves Visit www.slipperyrockgazette.net for more Stone & Tile industry news | 34 feBruary 2014 slIppery rock GazeTTe TheThe Slippery slipperyClassifieds RockroCk CClasslassifiedsifieds • Training hours are 8:30 AM to 5:00 • Selecting the right tooling, equip- Classified Ad Guidelines •All faxed ads must be typed–No PM ment and chemicals for the job hand-written ads–No exceptions. ds not meeting guidelines will not Transportation to/from Braxton-Bragg • In-depth explanation of the surface A •Please review all your ad info before be published. submitting– NO refunds will be given and the hotel is not provided. preparation and the concrete polishing •$30.00 per print ad, per month. Ads for ads that are submitted with the For more info and to reserve your processes may be renewed by contacting the wrong contact info or content and then spot, contact Kurt Alexander, toll-free • Factors to examine when preparing Slippery Rock Gazette. Free ads online! published. at 1-877-493-0205 or visit online at bids •Maximum of 70 words or less per ad •Best way to submit an ad is by going www.braxton-bragg.com, then click The $599.00 seminar fee includes: •Payment must be made at the time ad online at www.slipperyrockgazette.net “Hands-On Training” at the top of • All training materials is submitted. Credit or Debit Card only. for a free ad, or use the online form for the page. • Classroom, demonstrations & hands- A Credit Authorization Form is avail- a print ad, then fax payment to 865-688- ______on training able by fax, or download a PDF from 8254, (Attn: Karen Richards). the Slippery Rock website. • Lunches and snacks Readers Please Note: Lavina Training & Certification. • Training hours are 8:30 AM to 5:00 2014 Classified Ad Deadlines Tuesday, March, 25 - Wednesday, PM The information contained in our March 26, 2014. Braxton-Bragg LLC Transportation to/from Braxton-Bragg Issue Ad Submission Deadline Classifieds section is provided by offers training classes on Concrete and the hotel is not provided. March 2014 Tuesday, January 28, 2014 third parties and not an endorsement Grinding & Polishing using Lavina For more info and to reserve your of particular products, companies or Machines, Lavina Diamond Abrasives spot, contact Kurt Alexander, toll-free April 2014 Tuesday, March 4, 2014 employers. The SRG® encourages all and Clemons Super Dyes. at 1-877-493-0205 or visit online at interviewing employers to carefully This training is designed to be a hands- www.braxton-bragg.com, then click May 2014 Tuesday, April 8, 2014 conduct prescreening of all prospec- on introduction to polishing concrete. “Hands-On Training” at the top of tive employees, and purchasers of You will use the latest Lavina technol- the page. used equipment are encouraged to ogy as well as learn how to use dyes, ______For Sale use caution and common sense. densifiers and sealers. The attendees say: “It’s the best train- Do You Want 10, 20, 30 + More ing in the industry!” Repair Services FOR SALE: Steinex Used Installs Per Month? We can take you ration, by attending this class you will This two-day, hands-on training is “C-frame” Hydraulic stone split- from wholesale to retail and fill the gain information and techniques that for contractors and distributors look- AIR TOOL OVERHAUL – ter and motorized, reinforced con- void left by channel partner’s drying will give you a competitive advantage ing to gain a knowledge and under- Complete overhauls for selected mod- veyor with high sideboards. Igloo up. We have generated over 2.5 mil- in the marketplace. The knowledge standing of floor polishing techniques. els, include ALL NEW upgraded bear- Sherpa model 480x450 has 132 tons lion in sales for our customers in 2011. gained in this class will make you This Decorative Concrete Training ings, oil seals, O-rings, body gaskets, of splitting force, 18.9˝ blade length, Your phone can be ringing in as little more profitable in two ways. First, features the latest grinding and pol- head packing, vanes, and the honing 17.7˝ blade height, and a 157.48˝ x as 24 hrs. Call today 877-877-1916 you will now be able to repair blem- ishing techniques, equipment, tooling of cylinder. We will restore YOUR 39.37˝ loading conveyor, controlled or visit www.fireups.com. We are the ishes or mistakes that might otherwise and chemicals. Graduates will leave TOOLS to run like NEW! FREE Pre- at the splitter console. The price is granite marketing experts! Markets are require you to discard a stone or piece knowledgeable in surface preparation, Overhaul Inspection. $159.00 plus $45,000.00 FOB, Whitehall, NY. exclusive. Call today! of stone. Second, you will now be able concrete grinding, polishing steps and $4.95 Shipping and Handling. Call Contact André @ (518) 260-2158 or ______to offer restoration services. This is an procedures. for available model numbers. Stone email [email protected]. exciting and growing new market. This 2-day course covers: Perfect Enterprises, Inc. Call 503-705- ______Help Wanted This 2-day course, taught by Steve • Understanding the overall concrete 2398. Email: [email protected] Anneker, the inventor, covers: grinding and polishing process ______FOR SALE: CEE JAY; 350 ton • How to remove a scratch from a “Chris Cutter” 5´ opening, 4´ blade WANTED: Experienced High-End stone surface length, 2´ blade height, inbound power Installers and Fabricators. Cameo • How to determine if a stone has roller conveyor, w/ John Deere power Countertops, NW Ohio and SE been dyed unit & alloy steel piston bar upgrade, Michigan’s top custom stone and solid • How to identify a stain DEMO & CLOSEOUT asking $50,000.00 Call Tony @ 203 surface fabrication facility, is rapid- • How to remove a stain from a granite OOLS qUipMEnT 650-6119. FOR SALE: CEE JAY; 350 ly growing and looking for experi- countertop T & E ton “Chris Cutter” 60˝ blade length, enced and professional installation and • How to re-dye a dyed stone Premium diamond tooling and equipment at 16˝ blade height, 480/3 phase, inbound fabrication team leaders. Applicants • How to match an existing shine rock-bottom prices. Call now – Limited Quantities! motorized dual chain conveyor, asking must have references and relevant • How to polish recycled glass Scratch Pro Auto Paint Repair Kit, $19.95 $60,000.00. Call Tony @ 203 650- experience with discerning architects, • How to repair Engineered Stone • Viper Freehand Core Bits, 1˝ x 1-1/4˝ x 1-3/8˝, $13.60 - $22.80 6119. designers and homeowners. Benefits (ES) • Talon ES Wet Pads, 6-Step, $59.95 (Set) ______package included. Email resume to • How to obtain the “snakeskin” effect • Tenax Tixo Knifegrade, 17kg can, dented but not leaking, $99.95 • [email protected]. on Engineered Stone (ES) Viper 3cm Ogee, Pos. 1, $149.95 • Talon 3-Step Dry Pads, $14.98 each FOR SALE: Bavelloni Egar 450, ______• Edge polishing techniques for • Flex Concrete Grinder LDC1509FR, $427.46 2006 Bavelloni 450 CNC with dozen Engineered Stone (ES) • Viper 3cm Full Bullnose, Pos. 1, $98.95 of tooling for 2;3;4 and 6cm and miter Hands-On Training • Proper tool selection saw. Under power, low hours, works The seminar fee includes: Call 800-575-4401 or visit Close OUTS page great. $180,000 located in central CA. • All training materials at www.braxton-bragg.com Call Mark 559-255-6100. Steve’s Polishing Pro Systems • Classroom, demonstrations & hands- ______Training. Tuesday, March, 11 - on training Thursday, March 13, 2014. Braxton- • Lunches and snacks Bragg LLC offers two-day training Business Opportunities classes with this hands-on workshop to Stone Forensics.com learn how to remove surface scratch- inSPectionS - conSULtation - eXPert WitneSS Granite Shop For Sale or Lease: es from both natural and engineered Everything needed for granite fabri- stone. Taught by Steve Anneker, the cation. New state of the art building, inventor, you will learn how to use the Stone Forensics is comprised of engineers, scien- not a retro-fit. 1-1/2 acres on heavy game-changing Polishing Pro System. tists, and geologists with an expertise in natural volume, 4 lane commuting to & from For only $599, this training class stone installations and failures relating to natural Pittsburgh, PA location. Turn Key includes lunches, snacks and all mate- stone installations. Services range from specifying operation. Call for details, 412-527- rials. Come dressed to work and ready consultation to providing expert witness testimony. 5705. to learn! This session helps pay for itself! This training session was devel- Stone Forensics oped because of customer demand. Consultants in Natural Stone For more 740 Nelda Ave. The requests for this class have simply inFormation, been overwhelming. Because of a huge contact: Palm Bay, FL 32907 rise in the need for trained profession- 321-514-6845 | www.stoneforensics.com als who can perform repair and resto-

Shop www.braxton-bragg.com for Stone & Tile industry products Visit www.slipperyrockgazette.net for more Stone & Tile industry news | slIppery rock GazeTTe feBruary 2014 35 Creative Edge Cornerstones at Freedom Tower — One World Trade Center New York

REATIVE Edge Master Shop is proud to have designed and manufactured the five granite cornerstones at the new One World Trade Center building in New York City.

This building is an important part of history, replacing the World Trade Center that was destroyed in the 2001 terrorist attacks. The new structure evokes the shock, rage, sadness, defi- ance and pride that resonates through New York City and the nation. One World Trade Center. Inset: One of five This building will be the tallest on the New identical cornerstones made from black granite, white marble and stainless steel. The blocks are York City skyline, the tallest skyscraper in 2˝ thick, waterjet cut, with a single intricate the United States, and third tallest building in stainless steel graphic inlay. the world (2013). The building, developed by Silverstein Properties, follows the design of David Childs of Skidmore Owings and Merrill ble and stainless steel. They bear the name of the architects. At 1176 feet, the building contains project’s developer, Silverstein Properties. The 104 floors, with mixed transportation, retail, blocks are 2˝ thick, waterjet cut, with a single commercial, government and residential space. intricate stainless steel graphic inlay. “It was our At this time, all space has been committed. One honor to be involved in a small but important World Trade Center is scheduled to open in late part of this significant building,” said Creative 2013. Originally nicknamed Freedom Tower, Edge president, Jim Belilove. the official name henceforth will be One World For more information, contact Creative Edge, Trade Center. 601 S. 23rd Street, Fairfield, Iowa 52556, Visit Creative Edge created the cornerstone pieces the web at: www.cec-waterjet.com, or call 888- for the building from black granite, white mar- 383-2112.

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

Makita® 4˝ Wet Polisher Variable Speed OUR Price: $289.95! Screen Capture, 12-5-2013 GranQuartz Website Item # Description MSRP OUR Price 05 9001 Makita® 4˝ Wet Polisher, PW5001C $568.00 $289.95 $49 9376 Brush Set for Makita® PW5001C $18.60 $11.95 Distributed By LESSTHAN FREE GRANQUARTZ FREIGHT 50 STATES & PUERTO RICO Call 800-575-4401

Shop www.braxton-bragg.com for Makita Polishers Visit www.slipperyrockgazette.net for more Stone & Tile industry news | 36 feBruary 2014 slIppery rock GazeTTe

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

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

Available at

Call 800-575-4401

Shop www.braxton-bragg.com for Akemi Everclear Visit www.slipperyrockgazette.net for more Stone & Tile industry news | slIppery rock GazeTTe feBruary 2014 37 Techno™ Recycled Glass Surfaces by Stacy B. Williams Architectural Systems, Inc. (ASI) Special Contributor

Above: ASI has seen an increase of requests for the material in major new hotel projects and renovations across the globe. It can be found on the gallery walls in the National Museum of China in Beijing, as pictured.

Techno™ Recycled Glass installed (from inset to bottom) in a corporate building lobby, a living space inside a personal residence, and the main floor of a corporate office.

ECYCLED and repurposed hospitality installation. It is praised for its con- materials are truly trend- temporary style and translucent effect. ing in the fabrication and Tumpak says that the award recognition has design industries. For those led to a positive sales impact. ASI has seen an in search of a unique and sustainable sur- increase of requests for the material in major face material, Techno™ Recycled Glass new hotel projects and renovations across the Surfaces by Architectural Systems, Inc. globe. It can be found on the gallery walls in (ASI) is an optimum choice. the National Museum of China in Beijing, for example. This sleek and modern surface product is Techno™ Recycled Glass is ideal for use in made off-shore from 99% pre- and post-con- restaurant bars, retail shelving, focal walls or sumer recycled glass. The glass is heated and hotel vanities. agglomerated under high pressure to create an “Christian Louboutin, the top French shoe exceptionally clean and durable material. designer, is doing an entire store around “Horizontal surfaces provide a unique chal- Techno™ Recycled Glass, specifically focused lenge to the design industry,” says ASI’s on shelving,” says Tumpak. Director of Marketing, Bobby Tumpak. The Techno™ Recycled Glass comes in Techno™ Recycled Glass is a material that ten different gemstone-inspired color varia- offers a striking visual appeal with the durabil- tions ranging from earthy brown to sea green. ity and hardness of glass. This finished product Tumpak notes that the lighter colors tend to be is water and stain resistant and holds a LEED more popular, particularly when backlighting is certified Materials and Resources credit of 4.1 being utilized. For larger projects, ASI can offer or 4.2, which has become increasingly import- pre-fabricated slabs, including cut-to-size, sink ant to designers and contractors. cut-outs and special edge treatments. “Recycled products are more in demand than ASI is a leading global distributor of dis- ever,” says Tumpak, “Almost all of our mate- tinctive and affordable interior finishes. Since rials are curated with sensitivity to the impact its founding in 1990, ASI has been known they pose on the environment.” for its innovative products and fresh thinking Although Techno™ Recycled Glass has been for commercial interiors. Clients return again available to the US market since 2010, the hos- and again for ASI’s expertise, commitment to pitality and design industries just recognized service, project solutions and collective eye for ASI’s product last year. Techno™ Recycled WHAT’S NEXT® in materials - with the added Glass received the 2013 Award of Excellence ease of finding it all in one place. Visit www. in the Applied Finishes and Materials category archsystems.com for more information. designed for an environmentally conscious

Shop www.braxton-bragg.com for Stone & Tile industry products Visit www.slipperyrockgazette.net for more Stone & Tile industry news | 38 feBruary 2014 slIppery rock GazeTTe Florm USA Introduces Pier Every Coin Has Two Sides Now Everyone Will Want to Walk the Plank pair of enterprising thieves the car wash, Young said. took a car wash to the They used their own shop vacuum to do the cleaners: They used a work, he said. It was powered by an inverter powerful shop vacuum to rigged inside their Jeep SUV to produce suck quarters out of a coin-operated household current. machine, police said. Young said the coin-operated machine probably held no more than $30. The duo drew the suspicion of a passing ––––––––––––––––– police officer and failed to make a clean You Have to Pay to Play getaway. Thousands of people were splattering each “They had a good plan. They were enter- other with tons of tomatoes in the annual prising. If they were successful they could “Tomatina” battle in recession-hit Spain, have returned night after night,” said Sgt. with the debt-burdened town charging par- Gary Young in the Salt Lake City suburb of ticipants entry fees this year for the first time. Cottonwood Heights. “More often thieves Bunol town says some 20,000 people took just use a crowbar. They get an A for effort part in the August, hour-long street bash, but an F for execution.” inspired by a food fight among kids back Todd Herburg, 53, and Scott Luker, 55, in 1945. were arrested on suspicion of burglary. Participants were this year charged 10 More charges are pending. What gave the euros ($13) to foot the cost of the festival. men away was a crude attempt at altering Residents do not pay. their vehicle’s license plates. They used a Bunol, with 10,000 inhabitants, has a debt piece of black electrical tape to change a of some 5 million euros. “D’’ to a “B,” Young said. The town said six trucks brought 130 tons The bandits were at work for about 12 of ripe tomatoes to the scene. Portable show- minutes, sucking coins out of the coin dis- ers were set up for revelers to clean up after pensary of a stand-alone vacuum cleaner at the battle.

The Strange and Unusual

unusual six-clawed Florim USA’s Pier Collection is offered in just one size: 6˝ x 36˝. Via the comprehensive R & D program conducted for Pier, this size was chosen not only because it evoked the look of weathered lobster has been hardwood planks seen in older docks and jetties, but also because since each unit is not extremely donated to the Maine long, only one person is needed to install it. Generally speaking, longer porcelain wood-look planks State Aquarium in require two contractors and thus, end up costing customers considerably more. End-users who select West Boothbay Harbor. Pier will have a beautiful and durable floor, which enhances any environment. It may be selected in four beautiful and natural colors: Cocoa, Balboa, Navy and Santa Monica. Named Lola, the unusual lobster was caught by a fishing crew off the coast of of the European wildlife tracker found on it. LORIM USA’s Pier Collection Technology, a state-of-the art inkjet process Hyannis, Mass. Authorities later let the bird go. is unique in many ways. In creating a wood-look that is so realistic… it Aquarium Manager Aimee Hayden- However, controversy trails the bird into particular, it is offered in could fool Mother Nature! Roderiques says on one side where a singu- death. An Egyptian wildlife organization just one size: 6˝ x 36˝. The Pier Collection conveys a sense of real lar claw would be Lola has five lobster claws claimed on its Facebook page the bird was wood with superior durability, allowing it to arranged in a starfish pattern and on the “eaten by local villagers.” Hassib denied that Via the comprehensive R & D program con- be installed in both residential and commercial other side a normal claw. She tells WMTW- the bird had been eaten, though he didn’t ducted for Pier, this size was chosen not only applications. According to Stefano Rabaioli TV that the claw deformity is a genetic know an exact cause of death. because it evoked the look of weathered hard- V.P. of Sales and Marketing, “Wood looks are mutation that lobsters can have throughout ––––––––––––––––– wood planks seen in older docks and jetties, but definitely the fashion of the moment. Florim their life or from regrowth from a damaged Tally Me Banana also because since each unit is not extremely USA wanted to showcase the superior visual or lost claw. A banana plant at Smith College was appar- long, only one person is needed to install it. capabilities achieved by using High Definition Lola is expected to go on display in the ently so determined to keep growing that it Generally speaking, longer porcelain wood- Technology through this new collection, which next several days. broke through a pane of glass on a greenhouse look planks require two contractors and thus, was inspired by the most well-known, instantly ––––––––––––––––– roof. end up costing customers considerably more. recognizable American piers. Storks Like Us Rob Nicholson says he’s seen plants do lots End-users who select Pier will have a beauti- “This new series reminds me of a rustic wood A stork once detained by Egyptian author- of amazing things in his 21 years as manager ful and durable floor, which enhances any envi- look with weathered characteristics created ities on suspicion of being a winged spy has of the Northampton, Mass. college’s Botanic ronment. It may be selected in four beautiful by age, sun, and the sweet salt of the ocean. been found dead. Garden, so he wasn’t entirely surprised. But and natural colors: Cocoa, Balboa, Navy and Frankly, the product ended up better than we Mahmoud Hassib, the head of Egypt’s he did say it was annoying that the pane on the Santa Monica. To complement the weathered could have ever anticipated! It has a look suit- southern protected areas, said Saturday that 30-foot high roof now needs to be replaced. wood look plank, Pier Series also offers an ed for both classic and modern environments. local residents found the dead bird on an Nicholson told The Daily Hampshire attractive deco tile, which may be used for We’re already receiving specification requests island in the Nile, south of the ancient city Gazette he learned about the situation when a adding sophisticated accent pieces to the over- for Pier to be used in restaurants, hotels and of Aswan. staff member who worked on the weekend left all floor design, enriching the ambiance even retail stores.” In August, a local resident found the a note on his door. more. Additionally, the firm has developed a 6˝ To find out more about Florim USA, visit stork in Egypt’s Qena governorate, some Nicholson says he has seen photographs dat- x 12˝ cove-base, to add the final touch to any the website www.florimusa.com or call 450 kilometers (280 miles) southeast of ing to 1904 that show that same banana plant project. Each glazed porcelain Pier tile is pro- 1-877-FLORIM 1. Cairo. Both he and police were suspicious in nearly the same location. duced using High Definition Graphic (HDG)

Shop www.braxton-bragg.com for Stone & Tile industry products Visit www.slipperyrockgazette.net for more Stone & Tile industry news | slIppery rock GazeTTe feBruary 2014 39 The Stone Detective The Case of the Mystery Etch (Part 2)

ELL, I’m sure my readers are Frederick M. Hueston, PhD scratching their heads wondering what was Stone Care Consultant causing the mystery etch I had mentioned last month. For those of you who didn’t catch last month’s problem, the following is a recap.

I stopped what I was doing and immediately opened the package to start my testing. I felt like a little kid at Christmastime! The stone was called Brown Antique and was dark brown to almost purple in color. I placed the stone on my kitchen table and starting foraging to find some vinegar and muriatic acid. I placed a few drops of vinegar on the granite and waited about one minute. I wiped off the excess vinegar and picked up the stone to examine it under Stone Medic Marble better lighting. MADE IN THE USA Polish Compound Lo and behold, it etched. The etch was con- I opened up the old textbook and sistent and not spotty. I next took some muriatic looked up acetic acid, which is what acid and placed it on the granite and let it sit for vinegar is and Hydrochloric acid, one minute. I wiped it off and, lo and behold, which is muriatic acid. Boy, did this it did not etch. Let me shout this out…IT DID bring back memories of my college The Most Trusted NOT ETCH! days. I put on my new glasses, just to Holy cow dung, I thought, this can’t be. So make sure I wasn’t seeing things and, the next thing I did was… lo and behold, I found the answer. Polish Compound I asked everyone to try and guess why a mild acid such as vinegar etched the granite and not the stronger acid. Here are some of the guesses I put on my new glasses, just to make sure I I have received: wasn’t seeing things and, lo and behold, I found The stone is not granite. the answer. Now, I will try to keep this simple. for Marble The muriatic acid used was not really acid; Acetic acid (vinegar) is an organic acid and someone put water in the acid bottle. Hydrochloric acid (muriatic) is an inorganic The granite really didn’t etch. It removed a acid. This simply means that something in the wax coating. granite is organic in nature and is reacting with Restoration And my favorite was that I need new glasses. the organic acid. This is also why the inorganic These were good guesses, but wrong. components are not reacting with the muriatic This unique, user friendly paste is used to This is how I unraveled this mystery. First, acid. Now I had to find a way of explaining polish, restore and maintain worn marble, I checked the Ph of both the vinegar and the all this to the contractor installing the etched muriatic acid to make sure it was truly acidic. countertop. travertine, limestone, agglomerates and Both tested below a Ph of 4. “OK,” I said, “if this is confusing, you can other calcium-containing materials. It helps Next, I tried etching another type of marble go out and take some chemistry and geology enhance water and stain resistance. and granite and the results were what I expect- courses or you can just accept the Reader’s ed. Both acids etched the marble and both acids Digest version: Organic matter has somehow didn’t etch the other granite. So I sat down and incorporated itself in this granite and is reacting was wondering if I was losing my touch. with the organic acid, the vinegar. It is very, What was I missing? I thought. Just as I was very rare for this to occur. The fix is to repolish about to just give up and head out for a ride, I the granite but the problem will continue unless looked over to my bookshelf and noticed my a sealer is used that will prevent etching.” old chemistry book. Well, I thought I knew Another case solved... sort of. how acids reacted but I didn’t write the book on Item # Description Everyday LOW Price chemistry and I certainly wasn’t Robert Boyle The Stone Detective is a fictional character or Linus Pauling. (Google them – they were created by Fred Hueston, written to be enter- 41002 Stone Medic® Marble Polish Compound, 10 Lbs. Container 129.95 famous chemists). taining and educational. He has written over I opened up the old textbook and looked 33 books on stone and tile installations, fab- up acetic acid, which is what vinegar is and rication and restoration and also serves as an 800-575-4401 Hydrochloric acid, which is muriatic acid. expert for many legal cases across the world. Boy, did this bring back memories of my col- You can send any email comments to him at BETTER PRODUCTS! FASTER SERVICE! lege days. [email protected]. CHEAPER PRICES!

Shop www.braxton-bragg.com for Stone Medic Marble Restoration Paste Visit www.slipperyrockgazette.net for more Stone & Tile industry news | 40 feBruary 2014 slIppery rock GazeTTe The Fabricator’s Choice for More Than a Decade!

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

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

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

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Shop www.braxton-bragg.com for Viper Turbo Blades Visit www.slipperyrockgazette.net for more Stone & Tile industry news | slIppery rock GazeTTe feBruary 2014 41 Rockcrete USA: Providing Price, Performance Jennifer Holder and Peace of Mind for 9 Years Special Contributor

Photos courtesy Rockcrete U.S.A. it’s Friday, and you need a crew to start building a trench drain or floor drain for you on Monday, look no further than Rockcrete USA.

That’s the ease of Rockcrete USA’s revolutionary pour-in-place concrete forming system, Megamax Insta-Pour. In fact, if you have a small budget and crew experienced in working with concrete, you might be able do the installation yourself. The product ranges from 4 to 48 inches wide with custom slope and grate options. “The neat thing about this system that we developed,” says Rockcrete USA’s general manager, Hank Liebenberg, “It’s got a radius bottom built in – we can manipulate the slope.” In fact, when talking about the product, the same three words came up in our conversation: ease, simplicity and strength. This system is stronger, simpler and easier to install and clean than almost any other trench drain system. The Megamax Insta-Pour system has been around since 2005, but the latest upgrades were released at the beginning of 2013, when the company released the latest slick radius bottom development. “It used to be a square bottom or radius bottom, [but] this is a super slick radius bottom,” says Hank. Additionally, with a radius bottom, the trench is easier to clean and reduces sedi- ment build up by up to 65 percent. The system is also called the “pop and pour” because basically you can easily pop the system into the excavated trenches and then start pouring around it. The system stays in place because there are alignment rods as well. “We sell it in 8 ft sections with alignment rods that basically fit into each other, which prevents it from going out Top: Rockcrete engineers excavate the trenches of alignment,” he says. “All 8 foot sections are and collection pits for a granite cutting and line numbered with arrows to indicate the direction polishing area. of the flow, so you can’t go wrong. When you Above: After lines have been carefully cut in the put it into position and you start pouring it’s not concrete with a concrete saw, a jackhammer is going to move anywhere. used to lift out the flooring so that trenches can be cleanly dig with larger machinery. “Normally people do multiple pours,” Right: The completed stone processing area says Hank. “This is a monolithic pour which trenches and collection pits includes supports means…it’s much stronger. There are no cor- for a jib crane to be installed. ners which creates seams or weak points. It also drive out there and go do it.” “Then we quickly saw there was a need for saves a lot of time.” “If you want to change your mind and start They work all over the east coast, and have floor drains,” says Hank. “That is 90 percent of In fact, Hank says that any corner is a weak with a light duty area and later you want to get expanded toward the west coast to Arizona, our business [now].” point. “If you walk next to a brick building, a forklift to drive over it, you can switch out and into Canada, and recently installed a 550-ft And in the beginning, Hank helped install the the moment you see a corner – if it’s a real old the grates,” says Hank. “The base of the trench trench drain in L&M Laminates and Marble. floor drains. building and there was some movement – it will will allow for both uses but the grates determine Another recent job was in Duluth, Georgia, at “I did the jobs myself way back when the start cracking in a corner. The same thing with what can drive over it.” Millworks Expressions, where they installed a company started until we fine tuned our product a trench.” Rockcrete USA’s website shows their long 330-ft floor drain, and in Indianapolis, where a and installation process. We’ve gotten it down Also, the trench drain holds whether you list of clients, including everything from small crew installed a 970-ft trench drain. “Our [prod- to a science now with what works best, what’s have heavy duty traffic or more light duty foot granite fabrication facilities to bigger clients uct] is very cost effective because it’s really the most efficient, what’s the most economical traffic. All you need is the right grate for your like New York City Department of Public light weight. It’s not that expensive to ship, and way to approach a project,” he says. needs. Works, the US Navy and Sims-Lohman. we can get in with a competitive price because They still do machine foundations, but it is a “We provide light and heavy duty grate “Whether you need 12 feet or 1,000 feet, of its easy installation.” much smaller percentage of their business now. options to allow for foot traffic or vehicle traf- we’ll do it,” says Hank. “[If you need] 50 feet Rockcrete USA was created in 2005 and ini- fic. The grates are interchangeable. of trench drains in Knoxville, Tennessee, we’ll tially started doing machine foundations. Continued on page 42

Shop www.braxton-bragg.com for Stone & Tile industry products Visit www.slipperyrockgazette.net for more Stone & Tile industry news | 42 feBruary 2014 slIppery rock GazeTTe The Ease, Simplicity and Strength Fabricator’s Friend of Rockcrete USA Introduces Deluxe Apron Continued from page 41 Stacy B. Williams Special Contributor

Fabricators and tool reps recommended that a suspender type attachment over the shoulders might be more comfortable than the neck strap, especially for those working long hours. Therefore, the Deluxe Apron has a suspender-type support that distributes the weight of the apron over the shoulders and onto the back to help lessen fatigue. Not only does the Deluxe Apron keep fabricators safe and dry, it protects smartphones too. The new design includes a special protective pocket to keep phones and valuables safe during work. The emergence of iPods and ear buds in the shop suggested that adding a protected pocket for electronic devices might be a welcomed addition.

ABRICATOR’S Friend has too. The new design includes a special protec- done it again. An industry tive pocket to keep phones and valuables safe favorite, the Bullet Proof™ during work. The emergence of iPods and ear Fabricator’s Apron is made of buds in the shop suggested that adding a pro- the most durable Cordura material, mak- tected pocket for electronic devices might be a ing it one of the safest and most light- welcomed addition. Above: Samples of completed 6 ft. x 6 ft. x 7-1/2 ft. deep collection pits, with heavy-duty grates, rated weight aprons on the market. “Almost all our employees like to listen to for vehicle traffic. music on their phones while working so it The new Deluxe Apron features upgrades in seemed a natural improvement to make,” says Above, right: Inside a Megamax Insta-Pour Trench, showing the sloping, smooth radius of the bottom comfort and convenience. Owner of Crowley Crowley, “They love it.” and sides. Although the Megamax trench has been offered since 2005, the newest refinements were Granite and President of Fabricator’s Friend, The Bullet Proof™ Deluxe Apron was first introduced in 2013. Aaron Crowley, demonstrates that good prod- introduced at StonExpo 2013, and was made The company is also proficient in project with them regularly, and is always available to uct design starts with attention to customer available through exclusive distributors like management from initiation to execution, lend a hand or troubleshoot. feedback. Braxton-Bragg in December 2013. This prod- including floor repair, polishing and resurfac- “I talk to the people who get down and dirty “Because we own a stone fabrication compa- uct is ideal for fabricators to wear while wet ing, and cutting, coring and drilling. on-site every day. We know what’s going on ny, we have a literal laboratory for designing, polishing, sawing, or operating anywhere in a Everyone on the Rockcrete USA staff is on-site, at all times” he says. improving, and testing gear,” says Crowley. stone shop where there is water, abrasives, and on payroll - they do not use subcontractors. Rockcrete USA’s system, Megamax Insta- Fabricators and tool reps recommended that rough-cut granite. “We would not be able to do it without them Pour is proof that the company is here to stay. a suspender type attachment over the shoul- Braxton-Bragg offers a full range of fabrica- - reliable people,” says Hank. “Your product Their annual sales are up an estimated 25 per- ders might be more comfortable than the neck tion tooling and installation accessories includ- can be as good as it gets but if you can’t rely cent from last year. And from the testimonials strap, especially for those working long hours. ing sinks, installation hardware, and every on your people it’s impossible to pull through on their website, it’s clear that they always do Therefore, the Deluxe Apron has a suspend- tool and piece of equipment needed to run a That’s how we live up to our slogan: Price, an excellent job for their clients. er-type support that distributes the weight of the professional stone, tile, and polished concrete Performance and Peace of Mind.” For more information on Rockcrete USA and apron over the shoulders and onto the back to shop. For more information about Braxton- With Rockcrete, the job will get done quickly the Megamax Insta-Pour system, check them help lessen fatigue. Bragg and its publications and products, contact and efficiently no matter what. The crews work out online at www.rockcreteusa.com or call Not only does the Deluxe Apron keep fab- them toll-free at 800-575-4401 or visit www. together, and Hank makes sure to communicate them at 877-999-1175. ricators safe and dry, it protects smartphones braxton-bragg.com.

Shop www.braxton-bragg.com for Stone & Tile industry products Visit www.slipperyrockgazette.net for more Stone & Tile industry news | slIppery rock GazeTTe feBruary 2014 43 The Aging of America Will Be the Single Biggest Money Making Event of Your Lifetime… Now, Thanks to This Revolutionary NEW PRODUCT, You Can Grab Your Fair Share…

NEW! MADE IN THE USA

ver the next 17 years, 75 million handicapped accessibility affect the products babyboomers will retire. And that’s they can offer. Anything that is built these days important because the baby boomers really needs to be ADA compliant. Ohave been lining the pockets of manufacturers It’s one stop, one item you can put in place. and business owners for more than six decades. It’s there, and you don’t have to custom build Everything from diapers to cars to high-end everything. kitchens and baths to the stock market and now, retirement and healthcare needs. Allows for Multiple Sink Setups As boomers – and their parents – continue Where the bracket shines is in settings that to age, more and more will need physical as- ADA Compliant and Easy to Install require the installation of many sinks at a time. sistance. What’s more, if they want to stay These brackets simplify and streamline the “If you were in a bathroom in a hotel or any- home and stay independent, then they’ll need installation of vanity sinks in commercial set- where it may be and if you had to do multiple to modify their homes to meet certain require- tings where volume is key. General Manager vanities, you could put these brackets on the ments. Brad Winn of Stone Pro said the product wall,” Winn said. In other words, they’ll need to modify their offers several advantages to fabricators and homes to be “disability” friendly. That means contractors. “Time savings and consistency Be the Go-To Company wider doorways, smoother floors and custom are going to be a plus,” he said. “If you had to By placing three brackets every five feet, a sinks and vanities that allow for wheelchair custom make every one of these brackets for contractor could place up to three sinks in a 10 access. sinks in 200 bathrooms, that adds up to a lot foot span, he said. The brackets make it easier And for those that don’t stay home, millions of time.” to build sinks to meet ADA standards. And if of them will begin filling the assisted living So, Brad came up with an alternative… you can show your client that every sink will be communities being built right now. The brackets mount to the wall and form a exactly as your promise, then you can become Another huge opportunity is the fact that free-standing anchor for granite tops with sink the got to shop in your area for residential, all hotels and commercial bathrooms must be cutouts. Also included are angled panels that commercial and assisted living facilities. ADA (American Disabilities Act) compliant. mount on the sides of the brackets that form Either way, you have three huge opportu- a sleek, modern look and hide the plumbing Get It Today nities to be the go to company in your area without a boxy cabinet underneath. For more information on the Stone Pro ADA thanks to Stone Pro’s newest breakthrough Nothing could be simpler than using the Compliant Countertop Support, contact the product - ADA Compliant Wall Mount Stone Pro Wall Mount Vanity Brackets, Winn sales reps at Braxton-Bragg, 1-800-575-4401 Brackets. said. “You just bolt them up.” today. Or, visit online at www.braxton-bragg. As a supplier to contractors, you need to be com. YOU aware of how federal regulations regarding SAVE % Item # Description MSRP OUR Price 33 3743 Stone Pro, ADA Compliant Countertop Support $224.95 $149.95

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Shop www.braxton-bragg.com for Stone Pro Countertop Support Visit www.slipperyrockgazette.net for more Stone & Tile industry news | 44 feBruary 2014 slIppery rock GazeTTe k 4100 S lippery noxville a

ppalachian r ice

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azette W ay Everyday LOW Pr - un be the Judge” “You Braxton-Bragg conditional 30-day money-back Guaran - tee: If you are not 100% delighted with this saw, we will buy it back. The Husky 20 HP Financing options available. Financing F.O.B. Knoxville, TN. Call for a freight and installation quote. – Husky Bridge Saw 8” Programing Touch Screen (Optional)

Item # Description 14163 14161 Husky Bridge Saw

U.S. POSTAGE PAID KNOXVILLE, TN PERMIT #255 We Guarantee It! PRSRT-STD MADE IN THE USA 12 months on Rye Corp. Warranty: 12 months on mechanical parts 6 months on electrical. Warranty starts from date of delivery. Warranty is for part replacement only; labor and travel expenses are not included.

Direct Drive Bridge Saw has All the Features You Want, Because and Fantastic Quality, for an Amazingly Low Price! 800-575-4401 PRICES ! Key Features 10´ tilt table with 0, 45, 90, and 135 CHEAPER

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Easy To Use Design Excellence Made In The USA PRODUCTS ! www.rye-corp.com Why Are European Bridge Saw Makers Throwing in the Towel? Rod York has done it again! Following his Design Philosophy of Simple, Du - the introduces Corp RYE Quality, & High rable, Husky Bridge Saw. This saw has been designed for sawing countertops as well architectural stone. An easy blade tilt system allows for 45-de - gree miter cuts as well. and parts quality durable of USA in the Made components, the saw uses common parts for fast repairs in the event of a breakdown that are readily available at Grainger or Motion Indus - tries. Never wait for expensive parts from Italy again. The Husky is ruggedly built and weights in at 10,000 lbs. The Husky Bridge Saw’s controls are easy to use and you can operate the saw using control panel and the wireless remote at same time. Options include an 8˝ touch pad for program - ming dimensional cuts. BETTER

Shop www.braxton-bragg.com for Husky Bridge Saw Visit www.slipperyrockgazette.net for more Stone & Tile industry news