February 2021 Volume 27-02

The Beacon of the Stone Industry www.slipperyrockgazette.net The No-Lift Install System: Worth Its Weight in Stone

ot so long ago, the only Peter J. Marcucci option for getting coun- Photos Courtesy No-Lift tertops from the truck N and by Larry Hood into the jobsite were variations of 2-wheel dollies, slings, 4-wheel carts made for other trades, or installing, due to the physical toll just brute man power. All of these it was taking on their bodies.” methods did get countertops in, Soon after, Crowley showed-up but then what? Oh, and don’t on a jobsite to help them install a forget to send out one or two large L-shape top with a cutout. extra shop guys to help with that Both installers were still sore, so monster island top. And when it Crowley took the awkward sink was installed, chances were that end, he continued. “We picked one person would walk (or hobble) it up while I was leaning over away with a strained back, espe- the corner section trying to set cially if it was 3cm black granite. it down on the cabinet without Furthermore, drywall carts with smashing my fingers. I severe- four steerable wheels were noto- ly strained my back, which was rious for coming out from under nothing new.” themselves while installers nego- tiated ruts or uneven surfaces. We With the countertop installed, all knew there was a better way, Crowley, now quite uncomfort- but what? Hence, the advent of able, began driving back to the the No-Lift Install System. shop. “I was very fed up with In a third-quarter 2020 survey, 92 percent of the what seemed to me a crimi- No-Lift customers who responded reported they Developed in-house under real nal problem in the industry that were satisfied with their system, and 4 out 5 said working conditions at Crowley’s hadn’t been resolved yet. And their No-Lift system had paid for itself in re- duced injuries and savings during the first year of Granite Concepts, a medi- I’m not exaggerating when I say use. The No-Lift received the Best of Innovation um-size fabrication shop located this: when I got back to the shop award at TISE in 2020. in Tualatin, Oregon, the No-Lift I thought, if I cannot build a cart Install System was created to save to solve this problem, I am going Right: Crowley welding the first No-Lift proto- the company’s valued people, re- to sell my shop and get out of the type cart, circa 2012. The No-Lift Cart was com- called Aaron Crowley. “In 2012, business.” mercially launched in 2015, after extensively we had two highly skilled install- testing several prototypes in-house. ers who were questioning how long they’d be able to continue Please turn to page 2

Drone camera footage Raising the Flag at captured the 50 by 80 foot flag rising up the flagpole Upstate Granite Solutions at the Veteran’s Day and flag dedication ceremony. mericans love their holidays, Peter J. Marcucci Aand why shouldn’t they? They’re about celebrating free- Photos Courtesy see, Nichols himself is a veter- dom, giving thanks, giving gifts Upstate Granite Solutions an who was medically retired and sharing meals with loved in 2014 after suffering two bro- ones. – while serving their country. ken legs and seven surgeries. For Paul Nichols, Veteran’s The upside? He and his wife One unique and sometimes Day couldn’t be more personal. Kelly would soon open the very personal holiday, Veteran’s Nichols is the Founder and CEO doors to a successful fab shop, Day, is a time to reflect and honor of Upstate Granite Solutions, a recalled Nichols. those who have given so much, fabrication company located in including the ultimate sacrifice Greenville, South Carolina. You Please turn to page 14 2 | February 2021 Slippery Rock Gazette Photos (2) by L Hood The No-Lift System

Continued from page 1 to prove out our weld sites and our design. Even though it’s rat- Team Work Made ed for 600 pounds, everything on the Dream Work our cart is overbuilt and could lift That very same day, Crowley double the rated capacity, all day went to Harbor Freight to pur- long. However, we felt that any- chase a small band saw, a welder, thing over 600 pounds would be a drill press. He then built the first unsafe while pushing it into the As for wheels, the No-Lift Install prototype of the No-Lift-Install home and around the work area.” System cart features non-mar- System Cart, using the memory ring, non-binding tires, explained of a sketch his uncle (and future Not Your Father’s Crowley. “We tested every wheel, business partner) had showed Installation Cart tire and castor known to mankind, him years before. After extensive The two main features of the and wound-up with 10 inch by 4 testing through real-world install cart are the frame lifting mecha- inch solid rubber tires made by a conditions, a second, third and nism and the rotating mechanism. company called Ameritire out in then a forth prototype were creat- The lifting mechanism is a 12- Arizona. These tires were made The small footprint and compact, folded package make the No- ed and put to work in his install volt battery-powered actuator that exclusively for installations and Lift Cart easy to transport to the jobsite. Superior Stone Coun- tertops uses this custom install trailer to load the granite on department. has a 1,500 pound lifting capacity going over curbs, rocks, thresh- outside rails to balance the load, and all tools and equipment can This fourth model was a mile- (although 600 pounds is the rated olds, cords, drop cloths. They are be safely locked on the inside. stone achievement: one day a few weight limit for safely handling perfectly designed for what we Right: 9-year-old Alex Crowley beside the first No-Lift cart, weeks after giving it to the crew slabs once in the horizontal posi- do.” on its first day of testing in the Crowley’s Granite Concepts shop. to try out, his lead installer came tion). This is the mechanism that As for the castors, Crowley to him in private and thanked picks the countertop up and lifts said, “They are equally import- him saying, “I can keep working it to cabinet height. It is operated ant. Most people see them and now and I’m never going to an- by remote control. Every No-Lift assume that they are a traditional other jobsite without this cart!” cart comes with these features, so castor available at Home Depot With this feedback, Aaron and either installer can operate it. or Harbor Freight… but they are Roger Crowley realized they had Once the countertop is at the not. We tested those tradition- a game-changer. approximate cabinet height, the al castors, and even though they By all accounts, the No-Lift frame that holds and supports the were “over rated” for the cart’s System is the Bentley of slab countertop can be unlocked and 600 pound weight limit, they sim- transport systems. From the ele- rotated to the horizontal position ply can’t stand up to the abuse gant robotic welds on its laser cut and locked into place. Then, after of daily use that installing dishes steel, to its glossy, powder-coated the final height is set using the out. They wear out and get sloppy finish, the No-Lift Install System remote control, a security hook pretty quick. cart oozes safety and efficiency. (called the Shepherd Hook) is “They don’t pivot well when It is built to the hilt for countless released, allowing the countertop worn, and when you’re in a small years of service due to two im- to easily roll onto the cabinet by kitchen trying to turn in all di- portant things: home grown test- means of 20 transfer balls that rections with a large countertop, ing by the installation crews and sit just above frame. The transfer you need to have precise, univer- constant analysis, said Crowley. balls make for a very stable yet sal direction on those castors. So “When we were developing the frictionless surface. the low friction, locking castors No-Lift, the value of having a The other key patented feature we use, each have a 3,500 pound stone shop allowed us to prove the is the automatic drop-away feet weight capacity, even though we system out extensively before we that facilitate placement onto are only putting a maximum of even sold the first one to a fellow the cabinet when a countertop is 600 pounds on the cart.” fabricator. We even brought the transported with the wall edge As a plus, because of the cart’s design to a mechanical engineer down instead of up. efficiency, in some cases, seams can be eliminated. Without a is called the Roll-A-Ramp, ex- doubt, fewer seams are a real plained Crowley. “The Roll-A- people pleaser, and a great way Ramp is made out of aluminum, to make your countertops a cut and has a 900 pound capacity. It above your competition. weighs 55 pounds and is easily As for options, there’s a whole transportable. It is also infinite- bunch. One of particular interest ly expandable using the optional extensions, great for those extra Left and Above: The aluminum long steps or that freshly poured folding Roll-A-Ramp acces- concrete walkway that the super- sory is rated for 900 pounds, visor forgot to tell you about on with optional extensions to installation day. About 70 percent provide safe countertop de- of the customers who buy the No- livery to jobsites with access Lift Install System additionally challenges like stairs. buy the Roll-A-Ramp.” Alan Ramirez and Sean Crews, installers for Crowley’s Gran- Please turn to page 3 ite Concepts, have been using the No-Lift for years, with a noticeable reduction of strain. Photo by L Hood

| Slippery Rock Gazette February 2021 3

ne of Crowley’s sat- O isfied customers, Josh Stafford of Superior Stone Countertops in Crandall, Georgia, had this to say about his No-Lift: “Last year (2019) I bought a No-Lift Install Cart. Be- ing such a small company, it was a big step for me to drop thousands on a cart. Since then, though, I have installed some monster pieces with it. It’s a life and back saver, and has paid for itself in just the few short months that I’ve had it. I saw it (advertised partment, and a member of Task Superior Stone photo by L Hood in the Slippery Rock Gazette), Force 6, a regional emergency re- and in the beginning I didn’t sponse team. No-Lift System think it’d be worth a flip, but it’s a really unique and valu- Below: delivering and installing Continued from page 2 able tool. The roller ramp oversize or irregularly-shaped that came with it is phenom- countertops becomes safer and A rail system called the Counter enal, too.” See the August 2020 more manageable with two in- Handler is also available, made issue of the SRG for Stafford’s stallers when using the No-Lift for supporting textured counter- story as a fabricator and fire- System. Chad Leverich and Alan tops such as leathered or flame fighter/ first responder for the Ramirez maneuver this oversize, finished. Chatsworth, Georgia fire de- kidney-shaped top into place. Crowley also said that some new ideas are on the drawing board, but couldn’t talk about them, yet. He did, however, re- veal there’s a crane system being developed that loads the counter- tops from the shop cart into the trailer, and then loads the No-Lift cart at the jobsite. (We plan to reveal more on these inventions in a future Slippery Rock story. – Editor)

In closing, the No-Lift Install System is made exclusively for carrying and installing counter- tops! It is the pinnacle of de- sign and offers faster installs, less breakage, and less employee turnover due to fewer injuries. The system comes with a 30- day, money-back return policy, and a one-year/two-year no bull warranty.

For more information, demon- strations of the No-Lift in action, and actual user testimonials, go to www.noliftsystem.com and watch the many videos available. Email [email protected] or call 503-212-4034. What installers and No-Lift shop owners are saying: • “We have been able to remove a lot of the physical stress on our employees bodies, made installations safer” - John C. • “Two guys can install a large island. The turn radius allows for easy navigation through the tightest of spots. The Roll-A-Ramp is just as useful as the cart itself. You guys found the winning combination. I am happy we decided to go with the No-Lift cart. It is one of the top 3 best purchases we’ve ever made. Right next to my CNC machine and my overhead crane.” - Bill B. | 4 February 2021 Slippery Rock Gazette SLIPPERY ROCK GAZETTE ® Letters to the Editor The Voice of the Stone Fabricator Sharpening Your Customer Service

In This Issue… he October 2020 edition of Rick Pardee Tthe Slippery Rock Gazette Upstate Granite Solutions DEPARTMENTS: Industry Spotlight and Features featured Sharon Koehler’s article The No-Lift Install System: Worth Its Weight in Stone, by Peter Marcucci ...... Begins on 1 “Check Your Customer Service” in which she gave several exam- provide the highest level of cus- Raising the Flag at Upstate Granite Solutions, by Peter Marcucci ...... Begins on 1 ples of poor customer service tomer service I must not only hear Using Color Trends and Natural Stone to Refresh Spaces, by Megy Karydes ...... Begins on 9 that she and others she knows what the customer is saying, but I have experienced. She also pro- must hear what he or she means. Vetter Stone: A Bedrock Family Tradition, by Karin Kirk ...... Begins on 20 vided some suggestions for better The lady may say she is looking customer service. As a designer for “granite,” when she means she Training, Health and Education Sponsored by BBI Academy dealing with customer service wants some type of stone counter- How Much Money Can Your Shop Make? by Ed Young ...... Begins on 5 daily, I thought a deeper exam- top. The man may sound like he Principles of Synchronous Flow, Part II, by Ed Hill ...... Begins on 6 ination of the “how” of customer wants the vanity with the wrong service might enhance Sharon’s size sink replaced when all he re- Industry Topics, Tips and Regulars observations. ally wants is a discount. Listening means getting past the emotion Letters to the Editor ...... Begins on 4 I risk stating the obvious, but when a customer is upset. The Leadership in Retrospect and Moving Forward, by Cheryl M. Moore ...... 7 “customer service” means serv- frustration often arises from the Would You Like Fries with That? by Sharon Koehler ...... Begins on 10 ing the customer. Every inter- anticipation that he or she is not action I have with a customer really going to be heard. When the 16 Documents Added to Stone Resource Library ...... 15 results from the customer’s sense customer senses you are really lis- The Stone Detective, by Frederick M. Hueston ...... 19 of need, perceived or real. My tening, he or she will also have the role is to show the customer that sense of being served. Giving Crooks an Earful, by Sam Venable ...... 21 I genuinely care about their need Stone Restoration and Maintenance Corner, by Bob Murrell ...... Begins on 25 and then do my best to meet that 3. Assume. First, assume the need. Our company exists to customer is right, because in his Stone and Tile Industry News meet the needs of the customers mind, he is. This is not to say Cupaclad® Natural Rainscreen Cladding ...... 8 who seek our products or ser- that you instantly acquiesce to Katie Jensen Joins NSI Executive Committee ...... 13 vices. This means that the “how” every accusation and demand the of customer service involves customer makes. It also does not Fred Hueston Launches New Specialty Products Website ...... 14 standing alongside the customer mean you make promises you NTCA Announces Officers and Board of Directors for 2021 / 2022 ...... 15 so that they can have confidence cannot keep simply because it the need will be resolved, wheth- seems to be what the customer Revised Date for India Stonemart International Expo Announced ...... 19 er that involves a purchase or a wants. However, you must start Big Winners Announced in BB Industries’ Football Pick ‘Em Pool ...... 28 resolution to an issue. Here are from where the customer is, and some points that I have found then lead him to an accurate un- ...... 26, 27 Marketplace and Classifieds are basic to successful customer derstanding of the real situation service. and your ability to meet the needs expressed. Also, assume you can Contributors & Staff 1. Engage. When a customer meet the need in an equitable way. walks through your doors, calls Sometimes those of us in the peo- Rick Stimac Publisher on the phone, or sends an email, ple business get confronted by Larry M. Hood Editor and Design Director they should be engaged as quick- a disappointed or irate customer G. William Brown Graphic Designer ly and warmly as possible. I and right away assume that we Gina Covell Advertising Sales and Social Media Maven walked into a local furniture store cannot reach a win-win situation. Mark Anderson Department of Humor looking for a black nightstand. At Only in the rarest cases do a cus- Ed Hill Synchronous Solutions least three employees looked my tomer’s unreasonable demands way from the service desk. No or our limited abilities prevent us Frederick M. Hueston Stone Forensics Investigations one acknowledged me. I passed from finding a satisfactory middle Karin Kirk Geologist another employee as I weaved ground. Serve your customer from Sharon Koehler Artistic Stone Design my way through their displays, the assumption that you can both Rufus B. Leakin Guru of Urban Folklore but he was busy taking invento- win. Megy Karydes usenaturalstone.org ry or something. After about 10 Peter J. Marcucci Special Contributor minutes of unsuccessfully hunt- 4. Question. Personally, my first ing, I left the store without any instinct is to respond with a state- Cheryl Moore Prestige Countertops & Services form of engagement. I certainly ment, but statements set up walls Bob Murrell Restoration Consultant do not have a great motivation to that box in a conversation. Too of- Ed Young Fabricator’s Business Coach return. In order to serve the cus- ten my statement misses the point Sam Venable Department of Irony tomer, you must engage. of the customer’s need. Questions open the door to clarification. 2. Listen. I mean truly listen. Questions roll out the red car- Go to www.slipperyrockgazette.net to read current and back issues, place a Classified ad, or request a We each know what it is like to pet for the customer’s input and monthly subscription. Send advertising inquiries to [email protected], and comments c/o speak to someone who is hear- explanation. [email protected] . ing but not listening to us. To Please turn to page 13 | Slippery Rock Gazette February 2021 5 Training & Education How Much Money Can Your Shop Make? The Amount of Money Your Shop Can Make is Limited

our shop does not have an Ed Young infinite amount of capacity Fabricator’s Business Coach Yto make money – it is limited. You can only get so many kitchens or so many square feet through your shop activities defines your capacity to make in a day. However, even though your money. Simply put, reducing or eliminat- capacity is limited, there is always room ing NVA tasks increases your capacity to to improve. So, the question is: Are you make money. making all the money you can from your shop? VA tasks generate money. NVA tasks Win more jobs. consume money. In my November Slippery Rock article So, what’s the source of all this NVA Train employees. Could You Use an Additional 10 Percent work? You didn’t set out to have a shop Capacity Right Now?, we defined capac- full of activities that don’t make you Increase operational efficiencies. ity as how much value-added work you money. Or did you… could execute in a day. As a quick review, value-added is the physical transforma- How many times have you agreed to tion of the raw material into a product give a builder or homeowner an install your customer pays you for. While saw- date just to keep them happy? You knew Learn How ing is a value-added process step, the it was likely the cabinets wouldn’t be in- naturalstoneinstitute.org/fabricator-benefits only true value-added (VA) activity at stalled soon enough for you to template the saw is the time the blade spends in and still have time to make the tops before Networking • Technical Support • Accreditation the stone. All other activities are non-val- installation. Or you knew the homeown- Online Education • Standards • Industry Updates ue added (NVA). We also introduced er hadn’t selected slabs or a sink yet. Yet you to a fellow named Tim Woods to you gave in to their insistent plea. help you root out those NVA activities. Do you let your salespeople schedule Tools to help you are available at www. templates and reward them for how many FabricatorsCoach.com. they schedule (sales bonuses)? They don’t Since NVA activities reduce the amount have to fabricate the tops or install them. of time you have to do VA work, how well you reduce the amount of NVA Please turn to page 12 Patented Undermount Sink Clips FAST. SIMPLE. SECURE.

www.sinkits.com (417) 374-7373 [email protected]

Fast. Flexible. Financing. Ascentium.Info/Rock2021

Financing dependent on credit parameters. Loans made or arranged pursuant to a California Financing Law license. | 6 February 2021 Slippery Rock Gazette Training & Education Synchronous Flow brings an array Principles of Synchronous Flow of procedures, policies, tools and Part Two: The Proactive Approach to Business Management techniques to transform the business process from a chaotic, reactive, out- ynchronous Flow is Ed Hill of-control process into a disciplined, a process engineering Synchronous Solutions business flow system. proactive and fully-in-control business Sapproach to operations The fundamental metric of that management. Every business is a approach is Throughput ($T), system. system and every system always number of business scenarios can which is defined as the measure has at least one constraint. It is be analyzed and the necessary of value added by the company. Synchronous Flow reports make •Finitely schedule the business better to manage the constraints resources to meet the market de- All manufacturers simply trans- known the performance status of with confidence that the schedule than allow them to create chaos mand for each can be calculated. form raw materials into finished the company relative to the pub- can be met in the business. This report also establishes the products. That transformation can lished goals on a real-time basis. •Bring stability and calmness Throughput goals for the coming be measured as the Throughput of Overall company performance into the business system • Improved net profit months for use in scheduling the the business. For any order or for status can be posted daily in the •Confidently sell because there is • Reduced process lead times business system. any period of time, the sales rev- form of a Productivity Score, knowledge that manufacturing • Enhanced stability and con- The approach to scheduling is enue value of the finished prod- which reflects the ratio of $T can meet the demand trol of business operations adapted using Throughput as the ucts, less the cost of the materials, generated relative to the operat- primary metric. Scheduling this freight and outsourcing in those ing expense of the business. This The Synchronous Flow Synchronous Flow is an over- amount, which is indicated from products, equals $T. Using this means that Managers can know Protective Capacity Planning all business operations system the Protective Capacity Planner, basic metric, the business system the status of performance every Report is the tool to use in plan- that brings control and stability and tracking the business system can be managed to an optimum day rather than after the financial ning for profitable growth. Kept to an otherwise chaotic process. daily to assure that this amount mix of products, Customers and statements are prepared several up to date, this report indicates the It is a professional approach to is actually completed, will assure market segments toward a prede- weeks into the following month. current status of the business plan business management. It is par- that the financial goals of the com- termined financial goal. Since the Productivity Score and will allow a “what if” anal- ticularly well suited for the cus- pany can be met. A customized In the effective Synchronous does not reveal sensitive finan- ysis to check the effects of most tom fabrication industries be- Throughput Tracking Report is Flow business system, every key cial information, it can be shared any action. It is the “long-term cause it provides a system to deal developed to provide daily feed- person is aware of the current with the workers and can be used planning tool” for the business. It with the variety of events that back on production performance $T goals and understands the $T as a primary motivational tool by allows proactive management of can occur every day. It is ideal and lead time goals. To protect value of each job. The common the Operations Managers. the demand growth in the coming for the business that has grown the schedule, several buffer zones language of daily communication Another important principle months. It is the essence of plan- to the point that it must adapt an are established within the busi- becomes $T rather than square of Synchronous Flow is the im- ning using the Synchronous Flow overall management and control ness process flow. These buffer feet, sales value or numbers of portance to establish and main- business system. system in order for the company zones are managed daily by the jobs. All of the management met- tain Protective Capacity within to continue its growth. It is par- operations staff. The Throughput rics are based on $T rather than all the functions up-stream and It’s all about behaviors… ticularly well suited for a rapidly Tracking Report and the Buffer cost or efficiency statistics. down-stream of the Control Synchronous Flow brings an ar- growing business. Management process are tailored Point. Protective Capacity is ad- ray of procedures, policies, tools to apply specifically to the specif- Throughput Accounting focuses ditional capacity at each resource and techniques to transform the Fundamentally, Synchronous ic company’s business approach. on revenue generation, not prod- step planned for absorption of business process from a chaotic, Flow coordinates all the activ- Several regular business analy- uct costing. As such, it focuses on the inevitable delays, mistakes reactive, out-of-control process ities of the business flow pro- sis tools are established to iden- the positive potential of a compa- and confusions that occur during into a disciplined, proactive and cess to one strategically selected tify the primary causes of issues ny (the generation of wealth) and the workday. The system’s ca- fully-in-control business sys- step called the Control Point. occurring anywhere in the opera- not on the reduction of costs. That pacity must be unbalanced. This tem. The entire business opera- This point is scheduled daily to tions process from the invitation is not to say that good steward- is one of the “counter intuitive” tion is transformed from a “cost a predetermined level using a to bid, through fabrication and in- ship of resources is ignored. It’s elements of Synchronous Flow. oriented” balanced system to a metric called Throughput ($T). stallation of the finished products, just that the focus is on generating The idea is that it is essential to “Throughput oriented” synchro- Throughput is the measure of as well as the invoicing and col- revenue, not cutting costs. plan for the necessary capacity to nized system. All functions of value added by the company, ex- lection of payments. These anal- The amount of $T planned for absorb the “attacks by Murphy” the business process are focused pressed in dollars. The amount ysis tools are designed to identify each day in each product line is that are sure to occur. Protective on serving the Control Point and of Throughput scheduled is the most important issues to be a calculated amount that consid- Capacity is not “excess capacity” measures are readily available to predetermined according to the addressed by the company toward ers three very important factors which implies waste; rather it is indicate the “health” of the op- financial goals of the company. continuous improvement of busi- necessary in effective business essential capacity required for a eration at any point in time. The All other functions of the busi- ness operations. The process to planning: smooth and predictable process approach brings an opportunity ness process have visibility of address these identified issues are flow. Protective Capacity does for the Operations Managers to the Control Point schedule and rooted in the Synchronous Flow • Market Demand not increase costs, it provides deal with the inevitable issues of their activities are directed to fill methodologies. • Manufacturing Capacity opportunity for creation of more the day in a proactive rather than a the needs of that schedule. • Financial Goals $T. Maintaining the planned reactive manner. Planning for a rolling twelve Throughput Accounting amount of Protective Capacity at months is accomplished using Throughput Accounting is the In the ideal world, and that all times allows a company to: Total process lead times are ful- the Protective Capacity Planner. operational decision-making which the Synchronous Flow ly controllable at one week from This tool coordinates the three tool of Synchronous Flow. Cost system seeks, there is alignment •Achieve and maintain short Template through Install. As most important elements of a Accounting is necessary for the in all three of these elements. lead times needed, the lead times can be re- business plan: the market de- IRS and the bank, but Throughput In that situation, Customers are •Absorb the daily attacks by duced even further. mand, the internal capacity to Accounting focuses on key oper- being satisfied, the manufactur- “Murphy” without affecting the meet that demand and the finan- ational metrics designed to pro- ing system is in control and the Control Point schedule Please turn to page 8 cial goals of the company. Any vide control and stability to the company is making money. Daily | Slippery Rock Gazette February 2021 7 organization gave the employees importance of building successful own weaknesses and to identify Leadership in Retrospect the tools needed to do their jobs teams. Each person in your orga- others in the department whose while being respectful to their nization was hired to satisfy a rec- expertise would complement and Moving Forward needs as well. For example, the ognized need and the end game is theirs and make the department inferred heaters, the fans, the aw- about successfully leading and stronger. Delegation and empow- ast month in Opportunities Cheryl A. Moore, PsyD nings, the covered cash booths, guiding those you are responsible erment require trust, support, and and Obstacles in 2021, CEO, Prestige Countertops these are all tools provided for for. open communication. When you L I alluded to the impor- & Services the comfort, safety, and success delegate duties, and then try to tance of employees and the role of their employees for working in Organizational Power and control everything, you impede they play in our businesses. We their new environment. Employee Empowerment new efforts and ideas. were faced with unprecedented Change in an organization can Open communication, about all challenges in the year 2020, and What is So what is your leadership see greater success when a lead- aspects, encourages thoughts and with these challenges, businesses style? Do you lead each of your er includes other team members ideas. Most importantly, leaders were forced to adapt to the rapidly YOUR employees the same? Do you through influence and persua- need to be willing to accept re- changing needs of our custom- have a strong or a toxic organi- sion. When a leader invokes his sponsibility for any outcome. ers. The abilities of leaders and leadership style? zational culture? There are too or her formal power of authority, employees to meet these chal- many variables that effect lead- they tend to prevent even the best Greater Visibility lenges is what sets some busi- very accommodating to their cus- ership to mention in this short worker from seeing the vision A visible leader is an approach- nesses apart. Do you have a set tomers. I would not hesitate to article, but these are questions to of the organization and alienate able leader, and an approachable leadership style or are you able to guess that when their employees consider. Have you ever stepped those who are essential to the mis- leader is revered as a caring lead- adapt and overcome the obstacles originally signed on they did not back and tried to look from the sion. Successful change comes er. A flattened hierarchy is not we are faced with today? expect to be physically taking outside in to observe your leader- from engaging and empowering necessarily a bad thing. When an the orders out in the drive-thru ship style and identify any errors others to add their insight, wis- employee feels they can talk to One of the top organizations lines or delivering the meals car you may be making? dom, and talents, while keeping those is in a higher position, with- I have witnessed making new to car or curbside. The leader- After drawing upon current re- them motivated. out going through several layers changes, in accommodating their ship in this company did an ex- search, and from personal experi- to get there, it gives them a sense customers, are the Chick-fil-A cellent job with critical thinking ence, I would like to present the Delegation of belonging and that they are an restaurants. Not only has Chick- and meeting the ever-changing following six common leadership Leaders will often, whether important part of the team. This fil-A set up a process that gets needs of their customers. The errors that are made. Whether you through arrogance or a need to can be especially important when their customers through their one thing that warrants mention, are an owner, a leader, or a man- micro-manage others, try to direct things get tough, like we are see- expansive drive-thru lines, they however, is this organization did ager, you have a responsibility to and control every aspect of the or- ing now. also aligned their employees in not just require their employees the employees who work under ganization or department. A better new positions that make them to make these new changes. The you. Good leaders recognize the approach would be to assess their Please turn to page 8

Please turn to page 11 | 8 February 2021 Slippery Rock Gazette Leadership in Retrospect Training & Education and Moving Forward Synchronous Flow It is important to note that Part Two: The Proactive Approach transformation of a business Continued from page 7 system to Synchronous Flow is A visible leader to Business Management not an easy task. Effective use Leaders need to be careful to of the principles means that es- not get so involved in trying to is an approach- Continued from page 6 • Lead Times from Template sentially every employee in the come up with new solutions that (information complete) company will be affected by they lose sight of those around able leader, and Most importantly, the con- through Install have been the process changes. While the them. cept provides an improvement reliably maintained at one essential elements are standard an approachable in the reliability of the quoted week. within the Synchronous Flow Recognition and the cycle times. Being both quick approach, each implementation Importance of Every leader is revered and reliable is accomplished. • Communication and ac- will be specifically customized Contribution countability have significant- to apply to the particular pro- Many researchers have posit- as a caring leader Manufacturing and ly improved through the prac- cesses and unique features of ed that it is not always about the Operations Managers report tice of Buffer Management. each company. paycheck but also recognition for that the Synchronous Flow pro- a job well done. Employees can we are seeing multi-generations gram brings a sense of calmness • Planning and budgeting While it is a challenging start to disengage when they feel in the workplace and increasing and stability to an otherwise tools are being used monthly task, the results of an effective their efforts are going un-noticed technological advances. chaotic environment. Being to improve profitability. transformation to Synchronous or are unappreciated. The efforts able to address an issue before • Level loading has improved Flow can be an exciting jour- of every employee should tie into Addressing Underperformers it has a chance to affect pro- through the use of $T as a ney for the forward-thinking the mission of the organization. Some leaders do not like con- ductivity and Customer service scheduling metric. Countertop manufacturer. Good leaders should make sure frontation and find it hard to have is an important part of a suc- every worker understands the im- the difficult conversations with cessful operation. Synchronous • Chaos has been signifi- Ed Hill is President of portance of his or her role in the underperformers. There is a ten- Flow brings that ability. cantly reduced in the entire Synchronous Solutions and organization and are sufficiently dency to think they are giving operation through the prac- is based in Charlotte, North recognized for their efforts. Good the underperformer a chance to Results tice of Synchronous Flow Carolina. He can be reached at leadership also means taking the succeed, when in reality they are The results of the concept principles. EdHill@SynchronousSolutions. time to understand your employ- setting the person up for failure. from a group of Fabricators com and at 704-560-1536. ees and what they want in terms When underperformance goes who have implemented have • Net Profit increases have ex- of a career with your company unaddressed, it effects the entire been impressive. Under full ceeded the established goals. and helping them develop a plan organization and demonstrates load, the average improvements to get there. a lack of accountability. Not ad- in key operation metrics are: dressing the underperformers Processes Can Change weighs on those working around When Looking for Progress them as they pick up the under- Employees and leaders can get performers slack. too mechanized in the processes The key to successful leader- ® and the “way of doing things’ ship is getting employees invest- Cupaclad Natural that they forget good old-fash- ed in the vision and goals of the ioned common-sense decisions. organization through open com- Rainscreen Cladding Processes are a required tool for munication and empowerment. consistency, but do not be the Researchers have shown that ince ancient times, natural leader who falls into the trap of effective leaders are most likely slate has been used as Cupaclad® systems combine Not just for the roof, anymore: the saying “we’ve never done it that critical thinkers who choose to a durable, long-lasting the efficiency of ventilated new College of Engineering, Tech- S nology and Aeronautics (CETA) at way” or “this is how we have al- lead employees from a position roofing material. In the last two cladding with the properties of Southern New Hampshire University ways done it”. As a leader you of influence rather than a position decades, specification of natural natural slate, offering a compet- is completely clad in natural slate. need to look past processes and of power. Whatever your leader- slate cladding for building itively priced and sustainable be open to new ideas and sug- ship style, remember that there is facades has been widely accepted alternative for all cladding re- leader in natural slate. The most gestions. This is something that not one cookie cutter approach in throughout Europe. And now, quirements. Most noteworthy, exacting quality-control program is becoming more prominent as working with all employees. Each this unique concept is gaining the natural slate material offered ensures that Cupaclad® technical employee in your team wants dif- well-deserved popularity within by Cupaclad® needs virtually no properties will always offer ex- ferent things when it comes to the United States. real maintenance… ever! The ceptional façade performance in motivation, autonomy, empower- system offers a unique, easy-to- any location of the world. “It is better to have ment, and recognition. It is up to Introduced just a few years ago use modern installation proce- For more information visit you to figure out what leadership to America, Cupaclad® is an in- dure, for which Cupaclad® USA www.Cupapizarras.com/usa/ died a small child style works best for each one. novative rainscreen system of- instructors are ready and able to rainscreen-cladding/ . than to be a politician fering the beauty and durability teach new customers. Beneficial Cheryl Moore is the CEO of of natural slate to provide a wide CEU course programs are of- who gets caught in Prestige Countertops & Services, range of contemporary cladding fered to qualified architect, as Inc. and an Assistant Professor solutions. Modern, sustainable well. a scandal during a of Accounting at Mercyhurst and efficient, Cupaclad® slate is University. If you would a 100 percent natural product, Cupaclad® materials are pains- slow news month.” like additional information, painstaking chosen for its dura- takingly chosen from 16 quar- please email her at cmoore2@ bility and characteristics from 16 ries of the firm’s parent com- – Lewis Grizzard Natural slate from one of the 16 Cupa mercyhurst.edu . different world-class quarries. pany, Cupa Pizarras, the world Pizarras quarries. | Slippery Rock Gazette February 2021 9 Using Color Trends and Natural Stone to Refresh Spaces

2020, our homes have Megy Karydes IN evolved from living usenaturalstone.com spaces to makeshift offices and Photos and Charts by Permission classrooms. We’re tired. We’re Natural Stone Institute stressed. Finding those spaces to “escape” is becoming more im- portant than ever, whether it’s a Credits: Wellness by Design nook or a separate room entirely. Experts say the thoughtful use of color and strategic placement of natural stone throughout our homes can help create that sense of connection and comfort many of us are seeking more than ever and it is well documented that right now. biophilic engagement can reduce stress, improve cognitive func- “During this unprecedented tion, and enhance mood and cre- time, less is more and we’re ex- ativity. These and other outcomes periencing a pause that’s called can increase wellbeing.” us to be mindful of how we’re liv- Angela Weil, CFO and co-own- ing,” says Sue Wadden, director er of Stone Interiors, isn’t sur- of color marketing at Sherwin- prised that natural stone is com- Williams. Wadden believes now monly used to refresh and update is a good time to focus on build- indoor spaces, since we’re often ing sustainable sanctuaries and looking for ways to implement breathing new life into existing the natural world into our homes. spaces. Creating warm, inviting spaces involves more than just choosing furniture or fixtures. The One of the best ways to take ad- Wadden and her team recent- products we use, from the colors we paint our walls to the natural stone we choose for our vantage of natural stone and col- ly revealed the 2021 Sherwin- kitchen or bathrooms, impact and the overall well-being of our spaces. or, Weil says, is to make sure Williams Colormix Forecast, the stone blends into the overall which includes a palette called feel and natural environment. Sanctuary. Refreshing Our Spaces with Transcend is a mid-tone oat- foods – both offering a certain “Natural stone can be used in all “The Sanctuary palette is about Color and Natural Stone meal-colored hue which draws on sense of familiarity and normalcy spaces if selected to complement being rooted in peace so it’s the We know that color holds pow- earthy influences and nostalgia when facing the unknown.” the colors and fixtures,” she adds. ideal palette to help create a safe er; it seems that everyone is pre- and grounds the Be Well palette. Nature often plays a starring A little natural stone can go a haven at home,” notes Wadden. dicting we’ll be craving more Big Cypress is a shaded gin- role when it comes to finding long way. It isn’t necessary to “Sanctuary’s simple palette of calm in our lives in 2021. ger with persimmon undertones comfort. Natural materials such undergo a complete remodel ev- earthy neutrals cultivates well- while Misty Aqua is a watercolor as real plants, wood, and natural ery year to incorporate changing ness and calm within the home.” PPG Be Well cerulean blue. stone have a grounding effect on color trends. Because so many Color us ready for change. PPG’s 2021 Palette of the “When the world experiences our mental health, and choosing stones are neutral in color, your Year is called Be Well and con- events that cause unrest, anxiety, colors found in nature can have a countertops and fireplace sur- sists of three hues: Transcend, and grief, we tend to naturally similarly calming effect. round will act as a perfect back- Big Cypress, and Misty Aqua. gravitate toward compassionate Natural stone has a wonder- drop to changing paint colors and

Photo Courtesy Turrett Collaborative colors that allow us to ful position in the color story, ac- other accents. create a personal re- cording to Carolyn Ames Noble, treat from the world,” ASID, interior design direc- Health and Wellness says Dee Schlotter, tor and founder of Ames Design When Wadden shares the feel- PPG senior color Collective and ASID chair elect. ings some of the colors in the marketing manag- Colormix Forecast evoke, she er, architectural and “Human beings have an in- uses terms like slowing down industrial coatings. trinsic attraction to nature,” says and relaxation. The Sherwin “These comfort colors Ames Noble. “Natural stone -Williams 2021 Color of the are similar to comfort brings biophilia into our spaces Year is Urbane Bronze: a warm, sophisticated hue that promotes relaxation and serenity. “All of these colors are versatile enough to be used alone or together in a variety of rooms from the kitch- en island to an accent wall in the bedroom,” Wadden says.

Please turn to page 15 | 10 February 2021 Slippery Rock Gazette Would You Like Fries with That? et’s face it, we all get Sharon Koehler into patterns and ruts. It’s Artistic Stone Design L the nature of the beast. Fireclay Farmhouse Plus, we tend to endorse what we are most comfortable with. there’s no problem. When was the last time you went Brushed Gold-Tone Stainless 50/50 Stainless That being said, modern cast to your local diner, ordered a Steel Farmhouse iron sinks have gotten to the point cheeseburger and the waitress they will fit in a variety of places, where the enamel is stronger and said, “Would you like broccoli Think about copper sinks. They not just kitchens. more durable, so worries about with that?” Nope, that does not can have a high polish shine to fit What about Fireclay? Fireclay chipping shouldn’t play into happen. She says, “Would you in a sleek, modern kitchen or they sinks are clay and glaze bound to- whether this is a good sink for a like fries with that?” You say can have a duller, low polish fin- gether by being “fired” to the ex- customer or not. They come in a “yes” and all is well. Most of us ish to fit in more rustic kitchens. tremely high temperature of 1600 wide variety of colors and styles. know fries and we are good with Like marble, they will develop degrees or more (cast iron is fired They aren’t just shiny white any- fries. Broccoli? Well, maybe not a patina over time. They clean up around 1200 degrees). When it’s more. They are easy to keep clean so much, especially if we are Copper Farmhouse, Apron Front easy with warm soap and water all said and done, they look a lot and they are less likely to show ordering for a child. Now, there is AND the EPA has said that cop- like cast iron sinks. They are, water spots. nothing wrong with broccoli, but thousands of times. A 50/50 stain- per actually possesses antimicro- however, more scratch resistant If cast iron doesn’t excite you given a choice between a limp less steel sink seems to be the go- bial properties which means cop- than cast iron sinks and they don’t – what about glass? Tempered green vegetable or fries, fries will to sink. Why? per can kill germs. Who knew? weigh quite as much. They clean glass kitchen sinks are available win most of the time. Maybe back in the day a 50/50 Then there are granite compos- up easily and unlike their cast in over a dozen colors and multi- stainless steel sink was the thing ite sinks. They come in a variety iron cousin, you can use harsher ple styles as well. It’s the same with counter- to do. Get rid of your top mount of styles and colors to suit almost cleaners should the need arise. For glass sinks, a protection mat top sales. “Yes, Ms. Jones, you and get a sleek, new, don’t have every need. They are easy to keep While we’re at it, let’s talk is recommended and you should would like Colonial White gran- to clean around the edges sink. clean and they are more resistant about cast iron. Now, before not pour boiling water into it, but ite with a pencil round edge and Bonus: you get an extra 1-1/4 to scratching than stainless steel. you start complaining about how they can withstand typical every- 4-inch splash. Would you like a inch of depth with a stainless steel Also, depending on the brand, heavy they are, let’s just accept day use and are highly stain stainless steel sink with that? A undermount 50/50 sink. The thing you may be able to get a match- it and resign ourselves to the fact resistant. 50/50 perhaps?” I myself have is, there are SO MANY more ing strainer. Some are even dual that they need extra support. If said and heard it hundreds if not choices now. mount (top and under mount) so the customer is OK with it, then Please turn to page 12

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“So fast, the Stone Won’t See It Coming!” www.BBIndustriesLLC.com 800-575-4401 | Slippery Rock Gazette February 2021 11 | 12 February 2021 Slippery Rock Gazette Training & Education Would You Like Fries with That? Continued from page 10 How Much Money Can Your Shop Make? Granted, they aren’t for every- Continued from page 5 one but if someone is trying to create an elegant kitchen atmo- They are primarily concerned sphere, consider glass. about how to hit their numbers – If glass doesn’t fit into your because that is the way you have kitchen décor, what about set up their compensation. They Bamboo? Bamboo sinks are Bamboo Double-Bowl Sink aren’t concerned about travel durable, warm-looking and time for the templater. No one is eco-friendly with each sink be- Now that you are thinking of checking their jobs to be sure all ing unique due to color variation. other sink materials, let’s circle decisions have been made so the Even though the color pallet is back around to stainless steel. templater can do his job properly. limited, they do come in both Stainless steel sinks are great Do you always buy the cheaper single and double bowl styles. sinks. Durable and reliable, but polishing pads even though the They do require a bit more main- up until fairly recently their big- more expensive ones will get you tenance such as applying wood gest drawback was color. They to a finished edge quicker? (Have sealer once a year, plus avoiding only came in that stainless steel you even thought about which is harsh chemicals (which is true for metal color. A couple of differ- quicker?) many different sink types), and it ent finishes but basically just Have you put off repairing your is recommended that you don’t one color. Well, not anymore. concrete floor because you don’t soak your dishes in the sink. You can get stainless steel sinks think you can afford the down- There is a relative newcomer in different colors. They come in time required? Have you thought to the kitchen sink market — gold tones, rose tones, bronze and about how much it is costing you concrete. Before you start think- black. There is also a rumor out to NOT fix it (increasing the time ing about your driveway or there about blue and purple but I it takes to move carts around the sidewalk, concrete sinks can be haven’t seen that yet. shop)? The same applies to cor- dyed a wide array of colors and There are some sink types roded castors on carts, a forklift uncover the root cause for why custom-made to what you need. out there that aren’t mentioned that sometimes starts – the list that situation exists. A simple but How much profit do you plan They are also very heavy and may above, such as acrylic or alumi- goes on. effective way to do this is called to make next Thursday? It may require extra support (like cast num. There is nothing wrong with Are you cutting jobs early to the 5 Whys. Ask yourself why sound like a crazy question, iron). However, they are highly those sinks, but they don’t seem make sure everyone stays busy — that task exists. Then ask yourself but, if you think about it, your durable and are considered by to be quite as durable as other sink not following the recommenda- why that is true. The ask again, scheduler determines your ulti- some to be indestructible. materials. I also didn’t mention tions in last month’s article about and again, and again. If you can mate potential to make a profit real stone sinks, mostly because I strategically managing the level do this objectively, you can drill on any given day. So, I’ll ask figured we should all know about of work in your shop? down and find the true root cause again, how much profit has those already. There are other Do you have certain ‘pet’ or fa- of the issue. If you truly want to your scheduler planned for you sink materials out there but these vored customers that you allow to improve your shop, get some of for next Thursday? Next month seem to be the most common al- interrupt your carefully planned your more engaged employees we will talk about how to help ternative to regular stainless steel. schedule — ones that you give involved in this exercise. Be sure the scheduler plan for you to The point here is that there is preferential treatment to? to bring your thickest skin to this make more money and better more out there than your typical All of these decisions create discussion – you may need it. satisfy your customers. 50/50 stainless steel undermount NVA activities that consume sink, and isn’t that exciting? cash. You are paying for all the ca- As a fab shop owner, you de- pacity in your shop. How well serve to have a business that Please send your thoughts on A recommendation in my are you utilizing that capacity to makes you money and also al- Undermount this article to Sharon Koehler at November article was to pick a make money in your business? lows you the time to enjoy it. Concrete Farmhouse-style [email protected]. spot where you could see most or Combine these tools with the To find out more about how all of the processes in your shop. information in the rest of these to make more money and get Hit that spot several times a day six articles and you can free up your life back email me at Ed@ and note what percent of your 30 percent or more of the capacity FabricatorsCoach.com . machines/people are doing NVA you are already paying for. This work. Track this percentage over means 30 percent more square In addition to having run a coun- several days. This will give you a footage through your plant every tertop fabrication shop, Ed has good idea of how well you are le- day. While doing that, you can also helped many fab shop own- veraging your capacity to do the also deliver a consistent short 5– ers become very successful. VA work you customers pay you or 6–day Template-to-Install lead He is a seasoned manufacturing for. time. manager and coach who has helped hundreds of companies As you start to tackle reducing In next month’s article, we will from single person startups to or eliminating those NVA tasks, talk about the role scheduling large international corporations. ask yourself why that task is hap- plays in making this work. Here’s As a former business owner, he pening in the first place. To effec- an excerpt: understands the responsibility to tively begin reducing the NVA make payroll while also satisfy- “Psst! Hey, just because it’s February 15th doesn’t mean work in your plant, you need to ing customers. you’re out of luck. It just so happens I have a few arrows left over that, for the right price…” © MARK ANDERSON. www.andertoons.com | Slippery Rock Gazette February 2021 13 Katie Jensen Joins NSI Seven Ways to Sharpen Your Customer Service “Advice is like castor oil, Continued from page 4 proposed solution, plan your strat- easy enough to give but Executive Committee egy so that your attitude and ap- More importantly ask the right proach demonstrate your desire to dreadful uneasy to take.” he Natural Stone Institute questions. The right leading meet the need, not just win your – Josh Billings is pleased to announce that questions get past the superficial case or sell the job. T Katie Jensen (Triton Stone circumstances to the real need. Group) has been selected to join Questions also ease tension when 6. Suggest. Particularly when at- art, but even art often depends on the association’s executive com- potential conflict looms because tempting to remedy a customer’s strategy. Having principles that mittee as board secretary. they bring the customer back to dissatisfaction or objection, sug- steer your service to customers the realization that you are will- gest at least two alternatives. This keeps you from wandering, stum- Jensen commented: “I am hon- ing to listen instead of defending allows the customer to have the bling, and failing. In the end, ser- ored to have been selected to the your territory. “What can we do feeling that he/she genuinely ac- vice that meets customers’ needs Natural Stone Institute executive to resolve this for you?” goes a complished what was sought. You with genuine interest will be committee. It has been a joy to perfect candidate to keep the as- long way toward demonstrating might even end your suggestions service that satisfies customers. contribute and deliver an out- sociation focused on the member genuine concern for the custom- with, “Or what would help you Having satisfied customers means standing member experience. I experience and continuing as the er rather than self-defense. Of to feel we satisfied your expec- you will never lack for people hope to continue to provide lead- leader in technical resources and course, the tone with which a tations?” When put on the spot, coming through your doors. ership with my peers as we pro- education.” question is asked is crucial to le- most customers will back down vide more resources to advance The Natural Stone Institute ex- gitimately serving the customer. some so that they are not per- Rick Pardee is a design consul- the natural stone industry.” ecutive committee is currently ceived as greedy or overbearing. tant at Upstate Granite Solutions Michael Picco (PICCO comprised of President Picco, 5. Pause. Pause to consult. No in Greenville, South Carolina. Engineering), 2021 Natural Stone Vice President Buddy Ontra single individual has all the solu- 7. Settle. Do not leave the cus- Upstate Granite Solutions re- Institute board president, looks (Ontra Stone), Treasurer Duane tions to life’s problems. Running tomer without a satisfactory end- ceived the 2019 Better Business forward to the experience, en- Naquin (Stone Interiors), and difficult situations past a more ing. Restate the details of the solu- Bureau “Integrity in Business thusiasm, and innovation Jensen Secretary Jensen. Jensen is on experienced co-worker or your tion and ask, “Is this agreeable to Award for Outstanding Customer will bring to this leadership posi- schedule to become the associa- manager allows you to consider you?” or “Is this what you were Service”. UGS maintains a 4.9 tion: “Since joining the board she tion’s board president in 2024. other angles you may not have looking for?” A follow-up email Google Review rating with over has leveraged her business con- The Natural Stone Institute is examined. One of these alter- interchange can allow you to have 120 reviews. In 2020, Upstate nections to get more companies a trade association representing natives might well be the key to a paper trail as a record that both Granite Solutions received SC involved in the Institute’s ini- every aspect of the natural stone meeting your customer’s need. parties agreed to the terms. Biz Magazine’s Roaring 20s tiatives. Her resume of involve- industry. Learn more at natural Likewise, pause to plan. Before Award as the 4th fastest growing ment is impressive, and she is the stoneinstitute.org. engaging the customer with a Customer service is certainly an small business in South Carolina.

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Continued from page 1 Nichols and his team wanted to do something to give back to their “We were remodeling the house community, he continued. “We we were living in and we need- were thinking of having a barbe- ed countertops, but we were dis- cue and some activities for fami- appointed with what we found lies; sort of an open house event. as far as pricing and customer Then September 11 came around, service. So we basically creat- and we wanted to do a display to ed our own solutions by buying honor our first responders as well some slabs from a company that as our veterans. So we hung a 20 U.S. Armed Forces veterans and volunteers unfurl and raise was going out of business. I then foot by 40 foot American flag the flag in the Veteran’s Day program at Upstate Granite. watched videos, and learned how from a boom lift over the entrance to put those kitchen slabs in our of our building, and put out 1,000 and then I said, ‘Let’s have the Getting the Word Out house. After that was successful, small American flags. It was a biggest in the state,’ and that’s Nichols and team then did a I thought I could sell off the slabs large display of patriotism, and what we did!” couple of news spots, sought that were left over, which I did. the outpouring of response from After doing the research, it public service announcements at That was a little over five years our community was just amazing. turned out that the tallest flag multiple radio levels, and took ago.” Successful, indeed. Just a We had news people come by pole in South Carolina was 130 out ads on digital billboards. few years later, Upstate Granite to do a story on us, people were feet tall, so a 160 foot flag pole They also printed up 6,000 flyers Solutions moved into its current, honking their horns and calling was ordered, explained Nichols. and several hundred posters and 20,000 square foot building. us, and coming in with tears in “I called a flag pole company in put them in store fronts – and it their eyes to thank us for our sup- Texas, telling them that I need to worked, said Nichols. “People The Making of a Memorable port. I then thought that the flag have it erected and ready to go called us and said they heard Veteran’s Day Event out there was temporary, and that for Veteran’s Day, November 11. about our event, and asked how state, and that they could even be There were two factors leading we needed something permanent, That gave them two months to get could they help and be a part of part of the unfurling, if they were up to the event. The first was that and I said, ‘Let’s look at getting it done. They said they could do it? I think people really respond- a veteran.” it was the company’s fifth anni- a big flag pole.’ We then said, it. We paid the deposit, and they ed to the idea that this was going versary, and the second was that ‘Let’s have the biggest around,’ began to fabricate it.” to be the tallest flag pole in the Please turn to page 26

For those who offer or want Fred Hueston Launches New to offer professional stain re- Specialty Products Website moval services, this kit is a staple that should be in every red Hueston has Biocide Sealer Additive truck or shop. Fred also offers announced the launching This environmentally-friendly, skin from UV damage, this prod- eLearning courses and a mo- F of a new website, www. miracle in a bottle, when added uct blocks UV radiation, inhibit- bile stain app for pros, which drfredsinnovativesolutions.com to sealer, effectively prevents ing fading and surface deteriora- you can learn more about on featuring the specialty line of mold, mildew and algae growth tion of natural stone, especially the website. products he created over decades on stone and grout. those that have been reinforced of in-the-field experience. with resins.” Ultimate Stain Removal Kit Non-Staining Poultice Blue Be Gone Fred literally wrote the book on Powders For years, Hueston created Relied on by stone fabricators Invisible Squeegee professional stain management. Unlike most commercial his own solutions for prob- around the world, this very effec- Invisible Squeegee creates an As a restoration contractor, for poultice stain removal pow- lems he faced professionally tive solution removes that weird invisible barrier on shower doors years Fred would carry dozens ders, Dr. Fred’s Innovative as a restoration contractor or blue/green stain that often occurs to inhibit soap film build-up, of stain removal chemicals to re- Solutions Poultice Powder is a as a consultant to fabricators when certain glues are used on much like using a squeegee after move all types of stains on stone, special blend of powders that and restoration contractors granite seams. everyone has showered for the tile and concrete. Ultimately, he do not leave a stain. Simply that sought him out for his ex- day. realized that most of the stains he add any stain removal chem- pertise. Because the solutions Diamond Lubricant was dealing with were most suc- ical to the poultice for a stain were dead-on effective for the This preparation extends the Stain Sponge cessfully resolved using a mixture free result. unique fixes they provided, life of diamond pads. It cools Removing most common stains of different chemicals and that many colleagues urged him to the diamonds and provides a less from natural stone surfaces and only three mixtures were needed The Dr. Fred’s Innovative offer the products commercial- sticky surface, so slurry doesn’t masonry has never been easier! in almost all staining situations. Solutions products are sold ly. Thus, the product line, Dr. clog the diamonds, resulting in Just wet the sponge with water, The Ultimate Stain Removal exclusively through autho- Fred’s Innovative Solutions was overheating and premature wear. and place on the stained area. Kit includes sample sizes of these rized distributors which can be conceived. This product is easy for custom- reagents along with Fred’s de- found on the site’s Where to Unlike your typical seal- Granite and Engineered ers to use, and a great add-on to tailed how-to guide, including his Buy page. ers, stain removers and clean- Stone Sunscreen any countertop sale! insights for understanding stains, Visit www.drfredsinnovative ers, these products offer truly This simple solution gets the job how to identify the type of stain, solutions.com to learn more unique solutions. The product done. It protects stone exposed The most recent product to be and removal instructions of virtu- about the story behind each line includes the following: to direct sunlight. According to introduced to the line is also one ally every kind of stain. The re- product . Fred, “Just like protecting your of the most exciting. agent refills are sold separately. | Slippery Rock Gazette February 2021 15 NTCA Announces Officers and Using Color Trends and Natural Board of Directors for 2021 / 2022 Stone to Refresh Spaces Photo Courtesy Stone Interiors Design he National Tile Contractors Association T (NTCA), the world’s largest tile contractor association, elected new officers and board members for 2021 and 2022 at its annual meeting, held virtually on December 3, 2020.

Bart Bettiga, NTCA Executive Director, explained that the COVID-19 pandemic had caused the cancellation of the Coverings trade show, where the new roster would have been announced. Chris Walker, Martin Brookes, The new leadership is made NTCA Chairman of the Board NTCA President up of: Chris Walker, Chairman of the Board; Martin Brooks, President; Sam Bruce, 1st Vice and afterwards as Advisory Board Weaver, Region 4; Dirk Sullivan, President; and Rod Owen, 2nd members. Region 9 and Stan Platt, Region Vice President. Former Chairman, Martin 10. Chris Walker, who had served Howard of David Allen Company, Incoming directors include as NTCA President for 2018– Raleigh, North Carolina, will Mike Corona – Corona Marble 2020, continues to serve as the now become an advisor to the & Tile, Region 2; Matt Welner, Chairman of the ANS A108 Executive Committee. Blue Ridge Tile & Stone, Region Committee, and was the NTCA The new President, Martin 3; Josh Hogeboom, Spectra Tile Person of the Year in 2018. Brookes is a principal at Contract Flooring, Region 4; Walker is Vice President — Heritage Marble and Tile, Mill Trask Bergerson, of Bergerson PPG’s Be Well palette consists of three hues: Transcend, Big Northeast Region for David Allen Valley, California. Sam Bruce Tile, Region 9; and Elizabeth Cypress, and Misty Aqua. Transcend is a mid-tone oatmeal-col- Company: Bristow, Virginia. is President/Operations Director Lambert, of Lambert Tile, Region ored hue which draws on earthy influences and nostalgia and grounds the Be Well palette. of Visalia Ceramic Tile, Visalia, 10. “I am proud of my 20-year as- California. Rod Owen is presi- The National Tile Contractors Continued from page 9 If homeowners are seeking ways sociation with NTCA,” Walker dent of C.C. Owen Tile Company, Association (NTCA) is a While mental health and well- to integrate natural stone surfac- said. “NTCA is a 74-year-old or- Jonesboro, Georgia. non-profit trade association serv- ness are among some of the rea- es that promotes a more calming ganization with some really fine “With the goal in mind to diver- ing every segment of the industry, sons we gravitate toward certain feel, Weil recommends looking people. It is recognized as one of sify NTCA, directors are chosen spearheading education for the colors, it’s important to remem- at color, pattern, and texture. She the finest trade associations of its from large and small companies professional installation of ce- ber that natural stone can play an believes the use of stones with kind,” Walker stated. as well as from businesses from ramic tile, natural stone and allied equal part in maintaining good cooler tones and dainty veining NTCA presidents move up regions around the country,” products. For more information, health. Ames Noble reminds can help bring a calming feel into through the chairs in two-year explained Jim Olson, NTCA please contact NTCA executive us that having highly cleanable one’s space. term increments, from 2nd Vice Assistant Executive Director. director Bart Bettiga at bart@ surfaces such as natural stone is President to 1st Vice President Outgoing directors include tile-assn.com, via telephone at important for our health and safe- Megy Karydes is a Chicago- to President, and then serve two Robert Showers, Region 2; (601) 939-2071, or visit www. ty—whether or not we’re living based writer. Find her at years as Chairman of the Board, Paige Smith, Region 3; Michael tile-assn.com. during a pandemic. MegyKarydes.com .

including the National Building every aspect of the natural stone Granite Quarries Association and industry. The current membership “As we express 16 Documents Added to the Indiana Limestone Institute. exceeds 2,000 members in over 50 All documents are available free nations. The association offers a our gratitude, Stone Resource Library of charge. Since launching in wide array of technical and train- 2015, the Natural Stone Resource ing resources, professional devel- we must never ixteen new documents Library has seen over 500,000 opment opportunities, regulatory forget that the have been added to the downloads and has become a advocacy, and networking events. S Natural Stone Resource trusted resource for stone com- Two prominent publications—the highest form Library. Authored by Technical panies, architects, designers, and Dimension Stone Design Manual Director Chuck Muehlbauer, the construction professionals. and Building Stone Magazine— of appreciation documents originally appeared as Over 300 documents are now The new documents can be raise awareness within the natural is not to utter Queries & Quandaries articles in available for download via the found by searching “Newsletter” stone industry and in the design The Cutting Edge. A wide variety Natural Stone Resource Library, in the search bar at www. community for best practices and words, but to of topics are covered, including including technical bulletins and naturalstoneinstitute.org/ uses of natural stone. Learn more tolerances, stone anchors, testing modules, Dimension Stone Design resourcelibrary. about the Natural Stone Institute live by them.” flexural strength, and countertop Manual chapters, and resources The Natural Stone Institute is at www.naturalstoneinstitute.org. — John F. Kennedy overhang limits. from other industry associations, a trade association representing | 16 February 2021 Slippery Rock Gazette BBI Shipping & Delivery Information Lost & Found 92-Year-Old Man Finds Because your time is important, we do our best not to Missing College Letterman waste it. For example, when you call us, a salesman will Jacket with If you order today answer your call, not an answering machine. In other Social Media Help by 5:45 pm, Eastern words, you get your order placed fast. ore than 60 years after Mal Standard Time (EST) MOsborn earned a varsity let- on the web or on the Visit our website for ter jacket from the University of phone, we will ship more shipping informa- Maine as a track runner, he still today and will deliver tion or call 1-800-575- wore it. That is, until the 92-year- it in two days or less. 4401 to speak with any old lost it in October. of our knowledgeable sales representatives. Osborn, who has lived in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, The BB Industries team since 1964, told his daughter truly goes the extra mile Beverly Amick that he couldn’t on sourcing the best find the treasured jacket, the products and getting Bangor Daily News reported one them to you fast. Monday. Amick and other relatives retraced Osborn’s usual routes on the assumption that he’d placed the jacket on his car and it had fallen off while he was driving. When they failed to find it, Amick posted a photo of Osborn on Facebook wearing the jacket at a Master’s swimming competition in 2016 and asked for help finding it. “This man would be ecstatic if this well-loved (sic) jacket was found,” she wrote in the post that was shared more than 1,000 times. Osborn ran long-distance track and cross-country events from 1949-52 at the University of Maine, the Bangor Daily News re- ported. He told the newspaper the letter jacket had become a part of him after so many years. “I just know how much it meant to him,” Amick told The Associated Press. “I was going to do everything in my power to find it.” Amick said she got an email from a woman who lived near her father and had found the coat in her yard, covered with leaves. Osborn has been sporting the jacket since Amick had it dry- cleaned and returned it to him, she said. “As challenging as this year And, if it won’t fit on the truck, has been, this has given us some we’ll find the fastest way to get hope,” she said. your order to you no matter It was especially poignant giv- where you are. en the difficult year everyone has experienced. “I appreciate all the kindness and compassion that was shown during the last 24 hours. This experience is certainly a positive event to finish out 2020,” she wrote on Facebook www.BBIndustriesLLC.com u 800-575-4401 after the jacket had been found. Please turn to page 17 | Slippery Rock Gazette February 2021 17 Continued from page 16 One Man’s Trash is Another Man’s Treasure Get Seamless Seams he Germans are not much for TSurrealism, apparently. A paint- ing by the French surrealist artist Yves Tanguy, reportedly worth over on White Material $340,000 (€250,000) was trashed by a cleaning crew at Düsseldorf Airport after being left behind by a traveler. It was recovered by German police last week, found at the bottom of a recy- cling bin.

The businessman, whose identity was not given, accidentally left be- hind the painting by French surrealist Yves Tanguy at a check-in counter as he boarded a flight from Dusseldorf, Germany to Tel Aviv, Israel in November, 2020. With the current kitchen trend By the time he landed in Israel, of using light-colored stone, this realized it was gone and contacted translucent adhesive provides better Dusseldorf police, the valuable paint- color matching, and is designed for a ing, which had been wrapped in pro- stronger bond. tective cardboard, had disappeared. Despite multiple emails with details about the 16 x 24-inch painting, au- thorities could not locate the artwork, police spokesman Andre Hartwig said. LATEX It was only after the businessman’s CAULK nephew traveled to the airport from NOW IN STOCK! neighboring Belgium and talked with police directly with more information, that an inspector was able to trace the painting to a paper recycling dumpster used by the airport’s cleaning com- pany. “This was definitely one of our happiest stories this year,” Hartwig said. “It was real detective work.” — Me Llamo Sweet Pea Chihuahua dog named Sweet-Pea A who went missing five years ago Stone Shield has high performance, high quality products from sealers and in Southern California was found just adhesives to color enhancers, including new latex Translucent and White in time for a Christmas reunion with her caulk, all compatible with granite, marble, travertine and engineered stone. human. Exclusively available at: The tiny dog was reunited with her owner on thanks to microchip identifi- cation, KNBC-TV reported. Sweet-Pea went missing in the city of Compton in 2015. The Inland Valley Humane Society found her about www.BBIndustriesLLC.com 800-575-4401 30 miles away in the community of Covina, CA. Sweet-Pea appeared to have been well-cared for during her long absence, “Is Something Wrong, Officer? Phil: What would you do if KNBC-TV reported. There were no im- you were stuck in one place mediate details disclosed about where Washington State Patrol officer pulled driver had duct-taped flashlights to the front and every day was exactly the dog stayed while away from her A over a motorist on I-90 near North Bend of his vehicle to replace the headlights, which one November evening after noticing the ve- had been damaged in a crash. Flashlights-as- the same, and nothing that owner. you did mattered? Having Sweet-Pea back “means the hicle’s “super dim” headlights, patrol spokes- headlights are illegal in Washington (as they world to me,” owner Ursula Lopez told man Rick Johnson told CNN. are in any state) because they don’t provide Ralph: That about sums it KNBC-TV. enough brightness, Johnson said, adding that up for me. Closer inspection revealed the unnamed the driver also had a suspended license. – Groundhog Day, 1996 | 18 February 2021 Slippery Rock Gazette

Construction / December 2020

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Visit our site at www.promotions.itreconomics.com/slippery-rock | Slippery Rock Gazette February 2021 19 remembered this greeting The Stone Detective was going to be the new norm. Anyway, he told me Streamline … In the Case of Seeing Pink that the lady is a bit crazy, and she was likely going to field to office give me a hard time. I told communications. 020 is finally behind us, Frederick M. him I was used to that, and 2and hopefully this year Hueston, PhD I would just smile at what- A Moraware Partner will be the end to this pan- ever she said. He reminded demic. I don’t know about me that it wouldn’t matter, anyone else, but this mask she couldn’t see me smiling www.jobwelldone.com look is unbecoming. Who though my mask. “OK,” I would have thought you said, “Then I’ll just stick my would be required to wear tongue out at her.” (LOL!) Job Well Done has increased our communication a mask to enter a bank? A We approached the door “ and organization of our field operations. year ago, you would have and she greeted us wearing -AMC of Wisconsin been arrested! a pink dress, pink-rimmed cat’s-eye glasses, and pink It was time for my morn- slippers. This lady really had ing cup of joe at my favor- a pink fetish, and I was half ite greasy spoon. So, I got tempted to ask her about it, Revised Date for India StoneMart my old bones moving and but didn’t want to go there. headed out the door. When She led us to the show- 2021 International Expo Announced I entered the diner, Flo was the stone turning pink. Well, er, and I knew right away wearing a mask with writ- my first thought was that what the issue was. I told ndia Stonemart organiz- ing on it, so I had to ask her some shampoo or hair dye or her and my friend that this ers have announced the what it said. She told me it whatever they were using in was caused by the soap and Idate for the international said, “It’s not a mask, it’s a the shower was causing the shampoo. They just booth exposition has been changed cough-ee filter.” We both discoloration. He assured looked at me and said that from February 2021 to laughed, and I ordered my me that none of the products the soap and shampoo con- November 25-28, 2021. usual. they used were red or pink, tain no dyes, so how could I noticed a young couple he’d checked into that al- that be possible? The venue for India sitting at one of the tables ready. I told him that certain OK folks – are you ready Stonemart 2021 is Jaipur, and they were both wearing products can turn pink after for this? I told them that the Rajasthan, India, a City pink masks. I didn’t think sitting on the stone awhile. pink stain is the result of a where stone architecture re- that was too unusual, after He assured me this wasn’t bacteria that feeds on the invents itself at every turn. all, these masks are becom- the case, and asked me to soap scum and fatty depos- Its heritage hotels, palaces, ing fashion accessories. As come take a look. Luckily, it its. It’s an airborne bacteri- temples and forts bear mute India Stonemart 2021 Organizers report there are I’d find out later that day, was only an hour away, and um, and is generally harm- testimony to the natural provides an ideal platform an ever-increasing number what was odd, was those I told him I would be there less. For you science nerds stone fascination of the erst- for exhibitors to promote of exhibitors and a record pink masks would turn out after I finished my break- out there, and for those who while Rajputana. Modern their products, services and number of business visitors to be the same color as my fast. I finished my coffee, want to look it up, it’s called construction carries similar brand image amongst the registered. next stone inspection. said goodbye to Flo and the Stachybotrys Chartarum. signature themes, and elab- consumers from across the India Stonemart 2021 will While I was musing about regulars, hopped in the ole The good news is it can orate definitions of dimen- globe, and establish busi- be an ideal springboard to getting a mask to match Woody and off I went. be cleaned with standard sional stone applications. ness linkages and network- negotiate international busi- my trench coat, my phone I arrived at the house, and cleaners. In worse case con- Besides being renowned for ing with them for improving ness deals, network with the rang. I recognized the voice I kid you not – it was pink. ditions, bleach or peroxide its living heritage of stone their business horizon and stalwarts of the European on the other end – he was Coral Pink. It was a big can be used. Another case construction, Jaipur is also prospects. stone industry and to simply an old friend of mine, an mansion, and why some- solved. I wonder if she lis- winning acclaim as a vital do business. installer. He wished me one would want to paint it tens to Pink’s songs, too center for stone quarry- The event is being or- Exhibitors will include; a Merry Christmas and a pink was beyond me, until I – LOL! ing, processing and stone ganized by Centre for • Stone quarry owners and Happy New Year, and then saw the pink Cadillac in the handicrafts. Development of Stones stone processors told me he had an issue in driveway, and I knew right The Stone Detective is India Stonemart 2021 is (CDOS) with Federation •Exporters and importers a shower he had recently away the owner must of a fictional character cre- billed as one of the largest of Indian Chambers of of natural stone products installed, and couldn’t fig- have been involved with that ated by Dr. Frederick M. international expositions Commerce and Industry •Manufacturers and ex- ure it out. He said the only cosmetic company that gives Hueston, PhD, written to on stone industry, and will (FICCI) as the co-orga- porters of stone related ma- person who might be able its people pink Cadillacs, or entertain and educate. Dr. showcase the world of nat- nizer. Rajasthan State chineries and equipment, to, was me. Well, I’m not they were Aretha Franklin Fred has written over 33 ural dimensional stones, Industrial Development and tools and consumables immune to flattery. I have fans. You know – Freeway books on stone and tile in- ancillary products and ser- Investment Corporation Ltd. •Transporters and other seen all kinds of issues and of Love / Pink Cadillac? stallations, fabrication and vices. The event will bring (RIICO) is the Principal service providers for the the odds were this was may- Never mind. restoration and also serves together various stake hold- Sponsor of the event. stone industry be a rare but not uncommon Anyway, my fabricator as an expert for many legal ers of the stone industry India Stonemart has cre- •Trading and marketing issue. friend pulled up behind me cases across the world. Fred — domestic and overseas ated a geographic niche for organizations He went on to explain that as I was getting out of the has also been writing for the producers, exporters /im- itself in the international •Associations related to he had installed a marble Woody. I went to shake his Slippery Rock Gazette for porters, consumers and buy- stone exposition scenario, stone industry. shower in this fancy home, hand and he pulled away, over 20 years. ers, experts, technology pro- and the participants are of- and a month or two after the raised his elbow at me, Send your comments to viders, architects, builders, fered the best of the quality For more information and install the customer com- and shouted “COVID-19 fhueston@stoneforensics. developers, corporations, infrastructure, facilities and a schedule of events, visit plained about the grout and shake!” I should have com. etc. under one umbrella. services. www.stonemart-india.in. | 20 February 2021 Slippery Rock Gazette Vetter Stone: A Bedrock Family Tradition

imestone bluffs are a Karin Kirk familiar sight across south- usenaturalstone.com L ern Minnesota; stacks of Diagrams and photos tan, layered rocks standing proud ® Karin Kirk. above riverbanks, or punctuating the rolling prairie along highway roadcuts. Geologists, always happy to embark on mental time- travel, recognize these limestones as the remnants of a warm, watery world. The rock’s ubiquity illus- trates that these limestones are part of a continuous blanket of stone, painting the image of an expansive tropical sea, stretching for hundreds of miles across the region.

It can be hard to imagine how that could be possible, given that Minnesota is nowhere near a coastline and is presently a pret- ty chilly place. But 450 million years ago, you’d barely recognize were laid down across the north- recognizable hues of cream, buff, Donn’s father Howard was one Southern Minnesota’s the Midwest, nor any part of the ern Midwest, with each layer and light grey began to appear on of those four boys, and “one by Signature Stone U.S., for that matter. telling the story of a particular buildings, stone walls, and walk- one the brothers got bought out, Vetter limestone clads land- At that time, the North American environment. Sandy layers are ways across southern Minnesota. and it ended up with my dad,” mark buildings throughout the continent was just south of the the signature of dunes, beaches, says Donn. Howard Vetter ran region, including the 57-story, equator and most of it was under- or shallow shoals. Limestones A Family Rooted in Stone the company until 2000, then art deco Wells Fargo Center, water. It’s a bit of a mind-bender formed in deeper waters where The origins of the Vetter Stone passed the torch to the next gen- the Minnesota Senate build- to grapple with the idea of North calcite and dolomite settled out of company may not trace quite as eration. Howard’s six children all ing, and the University of St. America sitting below the equa- seawater. far back as the Ordovician Period, stayed in the family business. “At Thomas. Target Field, home to tor. But throughout geologic time, This assortment of marine sed- but the company has deep family one time we all worked here. All the Minnesota Twins, may be the the continents have constantly iments is called the Prairie du roots in the stone industry. at the same time,” says Donn. most iconic use of Vetter Stone. been rearranging themselves, Chien formation, and it stretch- Paul J. Vetter, Sr. came from Donn and three of his siblings Built in 2010, it “used every color thanks to plate tectonics. During es from Minnesota through, generations of stone cutters in remain active within the compa- we have, and all different types of the early Ordovician Period, the Illinois, Indiana and Wisconsin. Germany. Paul’s father emigrat- ny today. Bob Vetter is a draft- finishes inside,” says Ben Kaus, overall climate was warmer than “Kasota stone” is a nickname ed from Germany to Minnesota er and engineer, Mary Vetter President of Vetter Stone. “It’s today’s and there were no glaciers for the Oneota Dolomite, a dolo- in the late 1800s and owned a Benedict is an estimator, and Ron beautiful. Absolutely beautiful.” or ice caps. Because no ice was mitic limestone layer within the monument shop. Continuing the Vetter is CEO. “We’ve got good relationships stored on land, sea level was hun- Prairie du Chien formation. Amid family tradition, Paul made his “There’s a lot of synergy,” all across Minnesota,” says Ben. dreds of feet higher than it is now. all the other layers left behind career working at a stone com- Donn says fondly. “It’s a lot bet- “We’re able to handle each job Minnesota in the Ordovician by the retreating sea, this one is pany in Kasota. In 1954, just ter when we’re all here than when uniquely. Truly every order is dif- was similar to the Gulf of Mexico particularly useful due to its high- before his retirement, Paul sunk somebody’s missing.” ferent and independent. It makes today. Over a thousand feet of er magnesium content, making his life savings into a quarry of it very fun.” limestone, sandstone, and shale it more resistant to weathering his own. He bought land and be- Please turn to page 22 compared to a typical limestone. gan investing in machinery as his Donn Vetter, Quarry Kasota stone was first quarried savings would allow. These were Vetter Stone Buff Limestone blocks before processing. Manager at Vetter Stone. in 1858 and soon the limestone’s the seeds of the company which today spans two operations, em- ploys 130 people, and exports stone around the world. To this day, the company is largely guid- ed by the Vetter family.

Donn Vetter is Paul’s grandson and Quarry Manager at Vetter Stone, and he’s grateful for his grandfather’s foresight. “He had four sons, so he figured some- day if they wanted to get into the stone business, they were set up already,” recalls Donn. “He de- cided if the boys wanted to join him, they sure could, and all four of them did.” | Slippery Rock Gazette February 2021 21 Giving Crooks an Earful “The price of anything is the hen I read about the Sam Venable amount of life you Banshee II, one ques- Department of Irony Wtion immediately exchange for it.” popped into my head: “Where can I buy one of these babies?!” “And your point is? OF COURSE — Henry David I’D WANT TO MISUSE IT! Thoreau In case you missed the latest So would every Eddie Haskell military news, the appropriately wannabe!” named Banshee II is a hand-held (We pause here to enlighten any noise-making device. It may be readers under the age of 50. Eddie thought I might defend myself small in size (five inches by four Haskell was a character on the this unique way. Wimps. They inches), but it emits big sounds. old “Leave It to Beaver” televi- probably wouldn’t want me pack- And I mean biiiiggg. It starts at sion series. He was a syrupy nice like that these days? But I II next time some kid pulls next ing a Banshee II in public parks 144 decibels. That’s like a rock guy in front of adults but a com- digress.) to me in one of those open-win- and recreation areas, either. concert or jet engine taking off. plete jerk when their backs were Banshee II — which came on dowed cars with the stereo turned But I’d be the first to remind This gizmo is being designed at turned. If “Leave It to Beaver” the high-volume heels of the orig- to Quad-Max and the bass crack- them: If God hadn’t meant for us the Y-12 nuclear weapons plant in were on the tube today, Eddie inal Banshee I, in case you were ing plaster walls all the way to to have Banshee IIs, he wouldn’t Oak Ridge, Tennessee. Alas, the would be saying something like, wondering — is being touted as Kentucky. Like Clint Eastwood’s have put ears on the sides of crim- more I read about it, the sadder I “Well, hello, Mrs. Cleaver; I was an anti-terrorist tool and non-le- “Dirty Harry,” I’d calmly walk inals’ heads. grew. Seems the thing is merely just introducing young Theodore thal weapon for law enforcement over to his car and say something in the developmental stages. here to the wonders and dangers officers. According to the news intelligent. Like, “Loud enough Sam Venable is an author, co- Furthermore, a government of- of the Banshee II.” And as soon story I read, one short toot is so for’ya, punk?” Then I’d whip medic entertainer, and humor ficial said something this pow- as Mrs. Cleaver walked out of the loud and so painful “a person has out my trusty Banshee II and columnist for the Knoxville (TN) erful should never be allowed in room, Eddie would stick Banshee no choice but to drop whatever’s splatter his ear wax all across the News Sentinel. His latest book is the hands of the general public. II into the Beav’s ear and blast his in his hands and cover his ears.” dashboard. The Joke’s on YOU! (All I Did “There is too much danger of mis- brain cells into an adjacent coun- Cool! And just think of the Oh, sure. There’d be a bunch Was Clean Out My Files). He use,” were his precise words. ty. Geez, why can’t they make self-protection opportunities! of namby-pambies who would may be reached at sam.venable@ To which I wanted to scream: quality television programming I’d love to be packing a Banshee wring their hands at the very outlook.com .

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Continued from page 20

The most common use of Vetter’s Minnesota Stone is ex- terior cladding, but the limestone also finds its way indoors, as flooring, fireplaces, backsplash- es, and accent walls. In the land- scape, Vetter limestone is used for paving, patios, pool coping, seat- ing, and stone walls. The stone is equally suited for homespun DIY efforts, expansive commercial installations, and everything in between. Ben stresses the importance of local connections that have made Left: Northwest Tower, the stone so recognizable. “All Wells Fargo Center in while explaining, “Smoothing it the families that have stayed in Minneapolis, MN. out so it’s got a really nice hone southern Minnesota have known and smoothness to it.” Vetter Stone,” he says. “They Donn explains that in the final know the quality of it, and they Colors range from cream to buff product the tolerance is plus or know the family behind it.” to pink, explains Donn, “and then minus 1 millimeter. Both men The COVID pandemic has there’s many shades of those col- take evident pride in the high slowed some larger projects while ors within all the ledges.” quality of the workmanship. “Our opening the door to more residen- The fabrication facility sits customers expect it from us,” tial work. Ben explains that over on the same 500-acre property says Ben. the summer they did “more back as the quarry. “Every week we yards and more interior projects.” The majority of Vetter’s busi- A Clean and Efficient bring blocks up to the plant,” says ‘Don’t mess it up now, Ben!’ Although the residential work ness is in the Midwest, but Ben Business Plan Donn. The 80,000 square-foot fa- Ben became Vetter Stone’s was smaller in scope compared to points out, “we have projects all The straightforward geology cility is 600 feet long, “so it’s the president in August, oversee- Vetter’s typical work, the volume over the U.S. and actually we of Kasota Stone lends itself to a natural progress from big blocks ing operations in the company’s was larger, so Ben estimates their have a lot of international proj- simple and streamlined operation. on one end to finishing on the quarries in both Minnesota and total work load increased slightly ects, too.” Vetter Stone is on The limestone strata are horizon- other end,” he says. Alabama. He’s the first president compared to last year. American embassy buildings tal and near the surface. “It comes Production can be as simple as who’s not a Vetter, and he readily The company welcomes per- in Moscow and Oman, and the out in layers,” says Donn, and making a flat panel, or as detailed admits that being an outsider was sonal involvement from home- company has multiple projects in the layers tend to be around 2 to as an intricate edge profile for intimidating. “When I was hired owners. “Our doors are open for Japan. Ben explains that the inter- 5 feet thick. “They have natural a complex project. Fabrication six years ago that definitely was tours. We love to have visitors,” national partnerships came about seams in them so we don’t have takes shape through a combi- on my mind quite a bit,” he says. says Ben, explaining that peo- as a result of developing relation- to bottom-cut,” says Donn. nation of a skilled workforce, “I wasn’t sure what I was getting ple are naturally curious to learn ships with American architects Donn and his crew drill core specialized equipment, and the myself into.” more about the stone and the who were involved with overseas samples from the undeveloped all-important human touch. “We quarry. Regardless of the scope projects. parts of the quarry so they can have five people that work with Please turn to page 23 of the project, “we’re more than follow the best areas of the for- their hands in the finishing de- happy to spend the time with mation. They formulate a specific partment, cleaning up what’s left Vetter Stone uses specialized them,” he says. quarry plan for each quarrying by the saw blade.” Ben mimics equipment and a skilled season, which runs from April to the polishing work with his hands workforce in its 600-foot- long facility to produce The 80,000 Square-foot facility takes big blocks in at one end, October. high-quality dimensional and processed limestone products out the other. stone products. | Slippery Rock Gazette February 2021 23 Vetter Stone

Continued from page 22 Donn underscores the point, “That’s a big deal for the family, to have a switch after three gener- ations and 66 years.” “Don’t mess it up now, Ben!” Donn jokes good-naturedly, as both enjoy a laugh. We don’t have a big corporation The University of St. Thomas in St. Paul, Minnesota to fall back on,” says Ben. “We have to continue to pay attention Ben. “Our employee retention is Right: A variety of colors were selected for Target to all the details of the company.” one thing I’m really proud of.” Field Stadium, home of the But Ben appears to be more Minnesota Twins. than capable of paying attention. Poised to Continue After several years of stability, the Legacy Vetter Stone is currently in what Throughout the evolution of the Ben describes as “growth mode.” company, two things have always He ticks through the changes been in plentiful supply at Vetter throughout the company: “We’ve Stone: stone and Vetters. And Tom Cleveland: found ways to be able to increase both are here to stay. sustainability watchdog for our capacity. We’re getting more Donn estimates there’s 200 Stoney Creek efficient in the quarry. We’re years of limestone remaining operations. getting more stone out of the to be quarried, and he has eight ground.” children. An increase in quarrying needs “There’s definitely going to be to be matched on the production another generation coming up,” line, so Ben continues: “We also says Ben, nodding. “Oh yeah, for hired new talent and on the fabri- sure.” cation side of things we’ve invest- Donn adds, “There’s 20 grand- ed more in newer equipment that kids in the next generation, so…” improves our accuracy and our Ben steps in, “We’ll find a few capacity.” that want to stay involved.” And of course, all of this is con- “You’d think so!” echoes Donn tingent upon growing sales, too. with a laugh. “We’ve become more aggressive While many unknowns may lie in growing more relationships ahead, the company and the fami- with more architects. And we can ly are ready for the next chapters. handle that capacity,” he says. Ben is quick to point out that the Karin Kirk is a geologist and success of the company relies on science educator with over 20 their workforce. “Employees re- years of experience and brings a ally buy into that and they work different perspective to the stone really hard,” he says. “It’s cool to industry. Karin is a regular con- see it all come together.” tributor to usenaturalstone.com “We do everything we can to and the Slippery Rock Gazette. make sure they have a good work Contact her at karinkirk@gmail. environment and we give back to com . them as much as we can,” says | 24 February 2021 Slippery Rock Gazette That’s No Moon mysterious object tempo- OUR NEW VIPER WHITE RESIN PADS A rarily orbiting Earth has been identified as a 54-year-old NASA rocket, not an asteroid HAVE ARRIVED! after all, excited astronomers confirmed.

Observations by a telescope The 30 grit polishing pad has the in Hawaii clinched its iden- chops to remove stock, shape tity, according to NASA’s edges and prepare cut stone to Jet Propulsion Laboratory in begin the polishing process. Pasadena, California. NEW! The object was classified as an asteroid after its discovery in September. But NASA’s Viper White Resin top asteroid expert, Paul Chodas, quickly suspected it Wet 7-Step Polishing was the Centaur upper rocket stage from Surveyor 2, a failed Pads are true white 1966 moon-landing mission. Size estimates had put it in resin pads that work the range of the old Centaur, which was about 32 feet (10 great on natural meters) long and 10 feet (3 meters) in diameter. and engineered Chodas was proven right af- ter a team led by the University stone. They have of Arizona’s Vishnu Reddy used an infrared telescope in become popular in Hawaii to observe not only the mystery object, but — just many shops with days later — a Centaur rocket from 1971 still orbiting Earth. the increase of light The data from the images matched. stone demands in “Today’s news was super Item # 400000 - 400008 gratifying!” Chodas said via 100000 - 100008 the market. email. “It was teamwork that wrapped up this puzzle.” The object formally known as 2020 SO entered a wide, ORDER Available in lopsided orbit around Earth last month and made its closest YOUR VIPER WHITE 4 and 5 inch approach at just over 31,000 RESIN WET PADS miles. It will depart the neigh- TODAY! borhood in March, shooting back into its own orbit around the sun. Its next return: 2036. www.BBIndustriesLLC.com 800-575-4401

“In times of change camouflage pants that were covered with a crew from trash-hauler Republic Services for allowing the learners inherit the Buried Treasure in white paint. After his trash was Republic Services to search for the search then summoned Nolte, turn- hauled away, Nolte realized his wal- pants after determining which driv- ing the wallet over to him. earth; while the northern Indiana man whose let was missing and that it had been er had collected Nolte’s trash. They “It smelled a little bad and it was learned find them- A cash-filled wallet was acciden- in the discarded pants. made their way through 9 tons (8 a bit wet, but I can buy another wal- tally thrown out, got it back after a At his wife’s urging, he called metric tons) of garbage dumped let,” said Nolte, who had made a trip selves beautifully crew waded through tons of trash a city code enforcement officer, onto a concrete slab, looking for to the bank before his wallet went equipped to deal and found it, wet and smelly, near Johnny Quinones, and explained the the pants, which Nolte’s friend had missing. the bottom. situation. rolled up and placed, unbagged, on “I took out a $100 bill to give to Above and Beyond with a world that no “I originally told the caller that top of Nolte’s trash. Johnny for finding my wallet. He re- Logansport resident Robert Nolte there would be no way to find it,” They eventually discovered the fused it. Johnny, being the nice guy longer exists. said his wallet ended up in the trash Quinones told the (Logansport) pants at the bottom of the trash pile, that he is, wouldn’t take the money,” one Thursday when he asked a Pharos-Tribune. with the cash-filled wallet still in Nolte said. “He just said, ‘God will – Eric Hoffer friend to throw out a pair of green Quinones nonetheless worked one of its pockets. Quinones thanked do me better down the road.’” | Slippery Rock Gazette February 2021 25 surfaces that have been Stone Restoration and completed. There is the familiar and Maintenance Corner essential blue tape or paint- Common But Essential Accessories er’s tape, as it is known by many in the business. This previous columns Bob Murrell indispensable tape is used IN I have discussed M3 Technologies on virtually every project, some of the typical acces- to some degree. I use it to sories used stone and other Photos by Bob Murrell secure the top of my Tape hard surface restoration and & Drape product, mostly. I maintenance industry. In are even specialty pads that also usually use it as a first this month’s column, we many in the concrete in- layer when I would use the will cover accessories not dustry use, such as the heat red Poly tape as well. Blue previously discussed, or I’ll pads, which are similar to tape in several widths like present in greater detail. the natural pads with some one inch or two inches, is a foil sandwiched in between. must-have on the jobsite. Accessories are the con- These are used for reach- Tape & Drape is anoth- sumables that we really ing a specific temperature er essential product, in my A long-handled razor holder with heavy duty razor blade gives you the can’t properly operate with- (usually around 93 degrees opinion. This unique prod- leverage to remove stubborn substances like carpet adhesive. out. One group of accesso- F) when buffing certain uct is a pre-taped (blue tape) ries is the floor pads, like concrete guard products, masking film used for the size for protecting most floors and there is the high project site, so check with the natural or hog’s hair although not all guard prod- protection of sensitive adja- wall surfaces and door- probability that there are the GC, first. pads we regularly use for ucts require this step. cent surfaces like cabinets, ways. I recommend always still other sub-contractors What about razor blades? cleaning, polishing, and Another important acces- carpet, painted surfaces, keeping both available siz- walking around, you need I mean, how complicated buffing. Of course, other sory, necessary to success- doors, etc. We sell it in 24- es in the truck or toolbox, to protect your work. And can this subject be? Well, useful pads are the black fully work a stone resto- and 48-inch rolls. I use the as it is definitely worth trust me when I say, no- there are regular gauge and maroon pads for the re- ration project, is the family 48-inch rolls for protecting cost. When you are done, body cares for your work blades and then there are moval and stripping of floor of masking products. These cabinets when doing coun- you simply take it down more than you! Finish heavy-duty gauge blades. coatings, and white pads are required to protect sen- tertops, vanities, and door- carefully, wad it up tightly, workers, electricians, and There are also large-size for general buffing. There sitive adjacent areas or way areas. I use the 24-inch and throw it in the trash. It’s others will drop screws, 4-inch razor blades. Each really a no-brainer. nails, wire clippings, and has their own purpose. The Use 24-inch Tape & Drape to protect vertical surfaces when grinding floors. Red tape or polyethylene anything else you can think regular blades (.012-inch- tape is another essential of (including muddy boots) es thick) seem to do better product for many applica- on your work. Not to men- with soap scum and paint tions where water and or tion painters sliding their removal, and other typ- moisture must be kept out ladders and paint trays ically softer and thinner or off an adjacent surface. I around, and oh, boy, those film removal projects. The use the red tape in conjunc- are some nice scratches thicker blades (.020-inch) tion with Tape & Drape and to have to remove! Many are better for issues like ad- blue tape. I like to lay down general contractors provide hesive and glue removal. a strip of the blue tape first, Ram Board and tape for the and then apply the red tape Please turn to page 29 to that, as the adhesive is Ram Board and seam much stronger on the red tape applied to floor tape and can be somewhat for protection. difficult to remove, in some cases. Then there’s Ram Board, a product especially good for commercial projects. Ram Board, and the as- sociated seam tape, can be pricey (anywhere from $55 - $69 per 100 foot roll of 36-inch paper, and up to $20 for the seam tape), but its advantage is that it’s extremely durable, and is basically your best bet to protect your work. Honestly, the best way to ensure your work is protect- ed is for the marble work to be completed last or close to last. That, however, doesn’t always work out that way. So, if you have completed some marble | 26 February 2021 Slippery Rock Gazette The Slippery Rock Marketplace

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The Raptor Call 321-514-6845 Stoneforensics.com Quigley, 808-397-1089, qtileandstone@ also cuts small tapered cuts, which are gmail.com. not possible with other model saws. ______REG. $1,295.00 Seeking Stone Carver / Engraver Rugo IGLOO 100 640 X 450 Stone seeks an experienced Stone Carver $ able to use hand and pneumatic chisels, as 995.00 Item# USE CODE RAPTOR 32 well as sandblasting techniques to shape $51,600.00 USD EXW and carve all stone types for lettering, 14159 moldings, arches, flowers, cornices, res- Whitehall, NY toration repairs, bas-reliefs, and statues. •110 TON SPLITTING FORCE Plaster casting and knowledge of design www.BBIndustriesLLC.com • 1-800-575-4401 software is a plus. Full-time $23-33/hr, • 25.2” BLADE LENGTH depending on experience. Portfolio/exam- • 17.72” SPLITTING HEIGHT ples of work will be an advantage. Send Career Opportunities with BBI and health insurance contribution. BBI applications via email to jobs@rugostone. BB Industries is one of the largest dis- also offers a competitive base pay. • 11 KW PUMP UPGRADE tributors in the stone industry. We sup- com . Visit: www.rugostone.com to learn • 5.05” PER SECOND DESCENT more about us. ply stone fabricators with a variety of TEXAS ______tools to move, cut, polish, and repair Territory Sales Consultant For Stone • 6.49” PER SECOND RETRACT stone countertops. We are currently Tools (San Antonio, Austin, Houston, (518) 499-0602 • TESTED and PRESSURES SET PRIOR TO SHIPMENT [email protected] LOOKING FOR A BOOKKEEPER. seeking qualified sales people to join Dallas areas) Our company is looking for an experi- our team to drive a tool truck across a SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA enced Bookkeeper to assist in managing designated territory by supplying our Territory Sales Consultant www.ApexEquipmentInternational.com our day-to-day accounting and finance customers with needed product on site. NORTH CAROLINA requirements. Responsibilities include, This individual should have previous Territory Sales Consultant Balance and maintain accurate ledgers, sales or stone fabrication experience, Match purchase orders with invoices, be a team player, and have excellent If you’re in a big metropolitan area Coordinate bank deposits and report finan- customer service skills. not listed above, and still interested in Channeling Dr. Orin Scrivello cial results on a regular basis to manage- We are seeking enthusiastic and de- joining the growing, #1 BEST Team in ment, Monitor office expenses and tally tail-oriented people to fill our open the stone industry, contact us as well. Wisconsin dentist is ac- insurance companies to obtain and enter cash receipts and Pay vendor Territory Sales Consultant positions. Please send resume with cover letter to cused of damaging his pa- coverage for the crowns, the in- invoices and track bank account balanc- BBI offers an excellent benefit pack- A Jeff Dykstra (VP Sales & Marketing), tients’ teeth so that he could bill dictment says. es. Apply below. Part Time. Great pay! age that includes 401K with company email [email protected] . Contact: Antonio Laurel, 331-223-9347, match, earned vacation, paid holidays insurance companies for crown Authorities say Charmoli per- [email protected]. procedures. formed more than $2 million ______worth of crown procedures be- © MARK ANDERSON. www.andertoons.com Join the award-winning No-Lift System Scott Charmoli, 60, of Grafton, tween January 2018 and August team! The award-winning No-Lift was charged in federal court with 2019. System has changed the game for eight counts of health care fraud Charmoli’s attorney, Nila stone countertop installation around and two counts of false state- Robinson, did not immediately the world. With the high demand for the No-Lift and our commitment to ments. If convicted, he faces a respond to an email message left customer service, it’s time to grow maximum sentence of 20 years by The Associated Press. our sales team. We’re ready to add in prison and a $250,000 fine. “The Justice Department fo- someone who cares as much about this Charmoli is accused of falsely cuses on prosecuting health care industry as we do. We are committed to telling patients that they needed fraud not only to protect health excellence and integrity for ourselves and our customers. Contact us to learn crowns and then using his drill care funds but also to protect pa- more. Email: [email protected] to break off parts of their teeth tients who entrust their well-be- Phone: 503-864-6000. during the procedure. Charmoli ing to providers,” U.S. Attorney ______submitted X-rays and photo- Matthew Krueger said in a “Do you want it or not?!” graphs of the chipped teeth to statement. | 28 February 2021 Slippery Rock Gazette Big Winners Announced BBI’s Got Your Integra! in BB Industries’ Football Pick ‘Em Pool

ary Norwood of Florida Custom Marble will be Gable to enjoy the NFL playoffs on his new big screen TV, and we will probably be able to hear the games in Knoxville with the sound bar he won for picking the most NFL game wins at 178. watch the Super Bowl on my new 75-inch Ultra High Def. TV and “With all the stress of COVID, Sound Bar. Thanks again to ev- we wanted to offer our custom- eryone From BB Industries. You ers and some other industry folks all made my year!” NOW the opportunity to escape and Runners-up included Rick AVAILABLE maybe win some prizes,” said Bowers and Bill Sumner for sec- AT BB INDUSTRIES BB Industries VP of Sales & ond and third place. Fourth, fifth Marketing Jeff Dykstra, creator and sixth place went to Geno of the contest. “We accomplished Gonzales, Brett Shelton and Rick that goal with some heavy com- Urseil. petition. I think we all learned “We couldn’t have made the that there are some serious NFL weekly prizes and grand prize fans and possibly serious gam- happen without our generous Fabricators familiar with the discontinued brand blers in the stone industry! Just sponsors: Sinkits, Cooktop Bag, like many teams’ playoff hopes, SPPS / Steve’s Polishing Pro Altima will be happy to learn that this quality our contest came down to the last System, Zenesis, Flex, Hercules, adhesive is now available under the Integra week, with a few contestants tied Stone Shield and Viper,” added for the big prize. Gary came out Dykstra. “Their partnership is Adhesives brand, with the same premium formula, with a 1 point lead to take the very appreciated and made our and in a broader range of colors. prizes home. We appreciate all contest what it was.” the participants and they are all winners to us.” About BB Industries LLC The Integra products are the same, trusted, “First off, I want to thank Since its beginning in 1994, BB BB Industries for being a great Industries’ philosophy has been pre-colored seaming and assembly adhesives trade partner and sponsoring this to offer the best customer service formulated for quartz, natural stone, sintered event,” said Norwood. “The NFL and the best value for the money. Pick ‘Em Pool was a great way This is accomplished by provid- materials, solid surface, and more. to have a little fun while dealing ing quality tile, stone and concrete with the COVID-19 pandemic tooling and supplies at the best that has made this past year real- prices and best in-stock avail- Call our knowledgeable Customer Delight Reps ly tough on everyone. I am very ability. For more information, toll-free 1-800-575-4401 to order Integra Colored thankful for the opportunity to visit bbindustriesllc.com and face Cartridge Adhesives! participate, and I am excited to book.com/bbindustriesllc.

www.BBIndustriesLLC.com 800-575-4401 © MARK ANDERSON. www.andertoons.com

Lucky in Mass. The largest previous number prize amounts, according to its of people to win at once was website. ifty lucky people won 34, Massachusetts State Lottery The people who matched all F the Massachusetts lottery official Christian Teja told the five numbers that Sunday took game Mass Cash one Sunday in broadcaster. In this case, he said, home more than $48,000. December, setting a new record ac- the winning numbers all ap- Winners bought tickets from cording to the state lottery agency. peared in a column on the betting across the state, including slip, which may account for why in Barnstable on Cape Cod, For a dollar, players choose there were so many winners. Easthampton, Ludlow and five numbers between 1 and 35 Usually, the jackpot for the Lawrence. Five people bought and mark the choice on a slip. game is $100,000. But when winning tickets in the Boston WCVB-TV reported that 50 people total prizes exceed a certain per- neighborhood of Jamaica chose the winning combination of centage of sales, the state agency Plain. “Well, clearly there’s been some sort of scheduling error!” numbers. uses a formula to determine the | Slippery Rock Gazette February 2021 29

® Stone Restoration & Maintenance Corner Makita Vacs and Shrouds for Dust Management on the Job Site Makita XCV04Z Cordless Get OSHA Compliant Continued from page 25 The Shaveit Filer and Seam Cleaner turns HEPA Filter Dry Vacuum I have used the 4-inch regular razor blades into a powerful tool. Includes: blades on a special home- •2 Anti-static hoses made weighted device for •Crevice tool GUARANTEED removing things like carpet adhesive, vinyl adhesive, • Nozzle BEST and other tough to remove •Curved pipe PRICE! glue materials. Of course, • Straight pipe the handle that holds the •Main filter blade is very important, as •Damper and pre-filter well. I use different handle Item # Description Price setups for different pur- poses. Larger handles pro- 11486 Makita® XCV04Z Cordless HEPA Filter Dry Vacuum $738.45 vide greater leverage and ® assistance, but can restrict Tylenol for mild fever, vi- project. Also the best way accessibility. tamins D and zinc, some to help ensure success is by Makita XCV05PT HEPA Filter Dry (A handy, palm sized razor cough suppressant and ex- partnering with a good dis- Backpack Vacuum blade holder is also avail- pectorant, and trying to get tributor, like BB Industries, able from BB Industries. plenty of rest. Hopefully, that knows the business. Kit Includes: The Shaveit Filer, designed I will recover completely They can help with tech- •39” hose to hold a dozen parallel ra- within the next few days. I nical support, product pur- •Telescoping extension wand zor blades, is designed as am really looking forward chase decisions, logistics, •Floor nozzle a seam scraper or filer to to getting back to my nor- and other pertinent project •HEPA filter remove polyester or epoxy mal daily routine. information. •Filter dust bag adhesive.) I have some friends, how- I pray you all stay safe •(2) 18V Lithium-Ion Batteries ever, who have not fared and healthy. •Charger During the time I com- so well with this disease. pleted writing this column, Two of my friends have Bob Murrell has worked Item # Description Price December 28, I was bat- spent over a month in the in the natural stone indus- 11492 Makita® XCV05PT HEPA Filter Backpack Dry Vac. Kit $667.69 tling the COVID-19 virus. hospital, and one was on a try for over 40 years and is

That was my least favorite ventilator for several days. I well known for his expertise ® part of the Holiday Season guess I am extremely lucky, in natural stone, tile and Makita 9565CV SJS in 2020! and I count my blessings decorative concrete resto- I came down with the vi- daily. ration and maintenance. He 5 inch Grinder •13 Amps rus on or about Christmas As always, I recommend helped develop some of the & Dust Shrouds •Lock-On Switch Day and have been feeling submitting a test area to main products and process- Item# 9375 puny ever since. Now, I can confirm both the results and es which revolutionized the •No Load Speed: 2,800 - 10,500 RPM only share my experience, the procedure prior to start- industry, and is currently •Spindle Thread: 5/8” - 11 UNC which has been unpleasant, ing a stone or hard surface the Director of Operations •Variable Speed Control Dial but not unbearable. I have restoration or maintenance for M3 Technologies. •Overall Length: 11-3/4” been drinking plenty of flu- •Net Weight: 4 Lbs. ids to stay hydrated, taking 48-inch Tape & Drape was applied to cover the island cabinets for protection while refinishing this onyx countertop.

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11482 Makita® Dust Extraction Surface Grinding Shroud $57.07 for Makita 9565CV, 5”

11483 Makita® Dust Xtracting 4-1/2”, 5” Cutting Guard $118.47 with Shoe for Makita 9565CV

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Call 1-800-575-4401 or Order Online www.BBIndustriesLLC.com | 30 February 2021 Slippery Rock Gazette Are you compliant with OSHA Crystalline Silica rules and guidelines? Automatic Dry Dust Collection Booths The Filter Project Dry Dust Collector Booth is made to trap 99.99% of Dust from Granite, Marble, Engineered Stone, Quartz, Quartzite, and other airborne particles. Filter Project Dry Dust Collection Booths are all stainless steel, heavy duty, dry dust collectors. With the additional requirements initiated by OSHA for Silica in the granite and engineered stone, the Filter Project Clean Air Dry Dust Collection Booths will be a major advantage in removing silica dust from the air. How does the Dry Dust Collection Booth Work? The Filter Project Dry Dust Collectors have specially designed cloth filtering sleeves inside the Dust Collector. The Dry Dust Suction Wall’s powerful motors create a strong vacuum that pulls the dust particles horizontally from the work bench directly into the dust suction wall, then pulls it down to the bottom of the wall and inside the unit. The cloth filtering sleeves trap the dust and only allows 99.99% clean air to come out of the top. The dust is then collected in the catch basin draw at the bottom. Every day or once a week simply empty the dust that has been collected in the bottom of the catch basin. The Filter Project Dry Dust Collection Booth comes with a 3 ft (1 meter) extension enclosure that provides additional dust control and greater vacuum efficiency. 6 ft (2 meter) extension enclosures are available as options. Filter Project Automatic Dry Dust Collector are available in 10 FT (3 meter) and 13 FT (4 meter). 6.5 FT (2 meter) available by special order only.

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

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

Visit your preferred Weha distributor to purchase • more info at www.wehausa.com | Slippery Rock Gazette February 2021 31

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www.BBIndustriesLLC.com u Sales: 800-575-4401 & 865-310-5416 RYE-Corp Customer Service: 865-988-3823 | 32 February 2021 Slippery Rock Gazette Legendary Strength Get a Hercules PRSRT-STD PERMIT #255 KNOXVILLE, TN U.S. POSTAGE PAID A-Frame for only $19875 Item# 6698 ay W azette G 37918 ock TN , R

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