CALENDAR CALENDAR

The Search for The Tomb of The Unknown Soldier The search for the replacement hydraulic jack was brought in and block for The Tomb of The with a small spacer the 680,000 Unknown Soldier had brought the pound mammoth was tipped into Yule Marble quarry crew to the the light. The first glance looked same vein of good and marble that everyone experts believe breathed a sigh the original of relief. The tomb came block would from, albeit we rest over the were now July 4th weekabout 50 feet end and the deeper than the media would first tomb was be there next quarried and week to witabout 200 feet ness the falling to the south. of the prospecThe crew tive tomb would have to block. fall the largest July 9th was single block a busy and ever undertakhectic day en in the quarry with members Everyone of the media The tomb block remains on it's side inside the quarhustling for after the final cut. ry could sense the best posithat we were embarking on some- tion in order to witness the falling thing very special, sacred if you of the block. The hydraulic jack will, and it was treated as such. was fired up and the spacers added This was a once in several life- to tip the block into history before times opportunity and none of us a very expectant crowd. The spacwould miss it for the world. ers proved to be effective but not After several days the bottom, long enough and the track hoe was sides and back were cut and the once again called into duty to give block was ready to be pushed a helping hand. With just a gentle away from the mountain that had nudge the hopes of millions of vetpreserved it for this moment. The erans came into the light. A round of applause sprang up as soon as the block came to rest on the road base bed that guarded against stress fractures occurring from the tipping. A very large collective sigh of relief came from the crew as Rex Loesby (Rex owned Sierra Minerals, who held the lease on the quarry at the time) grabbed a ladder and sprang to the top of the block and declared; "It looks good!" And it sure did. Beautiful white with gold veining that matched the original tomb. This had to be the same vein the original came from. It just had to be. The word was given and the initial cut was made on the large block to cut away the chirt and see what lay behind it. The news was not as good as we had hoped, as the gray was still heavy. It was determined that further cuts would be made in hopes of saving the block. But there would be no saving this one for the tomb. The eggs of gray would just not go away and the call was made to search for the perfect block, not just one that 'would do.' If the tomb were smaller, this block would work perfectly. Such a beautiful piece of marble would not go unused. A portion of the large block was to be used for a life-size statue of President George H. Bush that would stand at his Presidential Library in Texas. With the beginning of 2005 came new owners of the lease on the quarry, Colorado Stone Quarries, Inc (owned by Polycor). Patrick Perus (now Vice President of Sales and Marketing for Polycor) gave the word to continue Cont’d on page 5 Vol. III, No. 3 March 2005 CALENDAR March 3 - 5, 2005 SOLID SURFACE EXPO (ISSFA) LAS VEGAS CONVENTION CENTER Las Vegas, NV Phone 702-567-8150 Fax 702-567-8145 www.ISSFA.com March 31 - April 2, 2005 INTERNATIONAL TILE & STONE SHOW (ITSS) MIAMI BEACH CONVENTION CENTER Miami Beach, FL Phone 800-564-5975 www.itssexpos.com e-mail: info@itssexpos.com May 3 - 6, 2005 COVERINGS ORLANDO CONVENTION CENTER Orlando, FL Phone 866-285-3691 Fax 800-883-9466 www.coverings.com e-mail: coveringsinfo@ntpshow.com May 19 - 21, 2005 AIA NATIONAL CONVENTION MANDALAY BAY CONVENTION CENTER Las Vegas, NV Phone 888-242-1824 www.aiaconvention.com e-mail: aiaexpo@mc-comm.com *July 21-24, 2005* INTERNATIONAL TILE & STONE SHOW (ITSS) JACOB JAVITS CONVENTION CENTER New York, New York Phone 800-564-5975 www.itssexpos.com e-mail: info@itssexpos.com Jan 13 - 16, 2006 INTERNATIONAL BUILDERS SHOW 2006 ORLANDO CONVENTION CENTER Orlando, Florida 800-368-5242, Ext 111 www.buildershow.com email: buildershow@nahb.com October 19 - 22, 2005 STONEXPO Las Vegas Conventiona Center Las Vegas, NV 866-550-6808 www.stonexpo.com of EVENTS of EVENTS OUR MISSION: To impartially serve the stone industry through education and communication. Stone Industry News is published monthly by Industry News, Inc. For advertising rates, call (865) 947-9275 or fax you request to (865) 9388958. www.stoneindustrynews.com P Box 1508 .O. Powell, TN 37849 Francis Heck Publisher Lola Heck Associate Publisher ADVISORY BOARD: Jim Owens Executive Director Indiana Limestone Institute Jim Callaghan Sales Director Marmo Meccanica Dan Fowler Stone Fabrication Equipment VIC International 2 March 2005 Stone Industry News Stone Industry News March 2005 3 From The Editor ’s Desk March 2005 Spring is in the Air! March has arrived. It's the time when the earth comes to life again. Spring is in the air and everything seems to take on a new urgency and excitement. Outside construction bursts onto the scene with ideas that have been simmering during the winter months. People who have been suffering from "cabin fever" now emerge from the indoors to join the hustle and bustle as the trees present their buds and flowers push up through the ground. People consider travel and outdoor activities that seems to bring America to a higher level of activity. In America we can expect home construction to continue at extremely high levels and more stone will be used in new construction and renovation than at any time in our history. Growth of our industry is expected to outpace other sectors as the demand for the utility and durability of stone surfaces continues to gain a larger percentage of dollars spent in construction. Even in areas of the country where home prices have risen dramatically due to demand versus inventory there continues to be opportunities for fabricators. Often the sale of previously occupied housing results in renovation and upgrading of kitchens and baths. This years home starts are down slightly from the 1.9 million in 2004 to 1.8 million this year. This year bodes well for the remodeling sector of residential contractors. Increased growth in household income would indicate that many consumers may well look to the stone and tile sector to enhance the value of their projects. Commercial building construction is gaining strength showing the first increase in office construction after the declines experienced over the previous three years. Institutional building construction is holding it's own with growth projected for healthcare facilities while school construction is constrained by tight fiscal budgets of states and local communities. We at Stone Industry News are pleased to share in the progress of the stone industry. This year promises challenges and opportunities as we work to provide a voice to the entire industry. We have weathered some storms over the past two years but our belief is that as the awareness of the resources increases the use of stone and tile will also increase… and our service will become a valuable resource. We are excited about the future and look forward to the opportunities that lie ahead. Even though our industry has many facets and a variety of organizations representing the various slices of the stone industry, we can take comfort that the vast majority of the companies are working diligently to provide quality products and services. Our capitalistic and profit motivated society assures that only the successful companies will meet the standards and continue to compete year after year. Quality and service are imperative components of the equation. We invite our readers to visit our website, www.stoneindustrynews.com, and send us a note with your comments or suggestions… or even criticism concerning our publication. We invite you to join our mailing list by doing so. AD VERTISER INDEX Aegis Commerce........................... 24 AMJ Supply......................................6 Autumn Home Web....................... 11 Cee Jay Tool Company..................22 Cemar Electro Inc............................5 CMS Stone...................................... 2 Coverings.......................................26 Delta Diamond.................................6 Granquartz.......................................2 Green Mountain Marble Co...........24 Groves Incorporated........................4 Indiana Limestone Institute........... 19 ITSS...............................................28 Marble Institute of America............23 Marmo Meccanica............................9 Stone Tool Supply...........................13 TexaStone Quarries........................24 US Granite Machinery...............14-15 VIC International.......................10, 18 STONE INDUSTRY NEWS WILL GLADLY PROVIDE FURTHER INFORMATION ON ANY OF OUR ADVERTISERS. INDICATE YOUR INTEREST AND FAX THIS ADVERTISER INDEX TO US AT (865) 938-8958. GIVE US YOUR NAME AND CONTACT INFORMATION AND WE WILL GLADLY PROVIDE FURTHER INFORMATION NAME: MAILING ADDRESS: 4 March 2005 Stone Industry News Stone Industry News March 2005 5 The Search for The Tomb of The Unknown Soldier, Cont’d from cover the search which brought the crew back to the same spot as last year, in fact the block would be quarried right behind the first prospective Tomb block. A ______ pound block was cut from the mountain and a template was made to cut the Tomb in a diamond shape from inside this block in order to have the veining run to match the original Tomb. Each cut peeled away the imperfections to reveal the Tomb that lay inside. Once again brilliant white with graceful gold veining. After the final cut it was determined that this was the block that had eluded us for two years. This was the Tomb block. (Ron Bailey is a freelance photographer who has documented the search for The Tomb for over two years. Ron has put together a booklet to document the first leg of the search (ronbaileyphotography.com) and hopes to have the full search put in print this year.) NEW MIA SAFETY VIDEOS AIM TO TO PROTECT WORKERS, CONSUMERS CLEVELAND, OH – Two powerful new safety video productions which focus on making natural stone shops and showrooms safer for employees and consumers are being released by the Marble Institute of America (MIA). “This twin package of safety videos is a major step in standardizing safety procedures throughout the industry,” said MIA President Scott Lardner, of Rocky Mountain Stone Co. in Albuquerque. The shop safety video covers virtually every element of protecting workers in that environment, but also places heavy emphasis on slab handling both in the shop and in indoor and outdoor show rooms. The consumer safety video, produced in association with the Florida Retail Federation, was a direct result of a tragic accident in Tallahassee, Florida, in which a sixold boy was crushed to death while his parents watched. A series of Aframes collapsed, sending several slabs cascading into him. His father and mother also were injured. The consumer safety video tells the story of the Florida tragedy and offers safety tips on protecting consumers while in stone facilities. The entire package of two videos, plus a short production on services offered by MIA, was combined on to one CD and inserted into the February issue of Stone World Magazine. For information on obtaining copies of the safety videos, contact MIA at 440-250-9222. About the Marble Institute of America Celebrating its 60th anniversary in 2004, the Marble Institute of America (MIA) is the world’s leading information resource and advocate for the natural stone industry. MIA members include marble, granite, limestone, sandstone, and other natural stone producers and quarriers, fabricators, installers, distributors, and contractors around the world. For more information, contact MIA at (440) 250-9222, e-mail MIAinfo@marble-institute.com, or visit www.marble-institute.com. Quarry workers insure the final cut of the tomb block will be clean. The Yule Quarry and the Search for The Tomb of The Unknown Soldier 58 pages of photos from the Yule Quarry showing day to day operations and the search for the tomb block. The only documentation of the modern day quarry and the search for the tomb. Saddle stitched $15.00/ea plus $5.00 shipping worldwide (each additional booklet is $1.00 shipping) Send check or MO to: Ron Bailey Photography 200 Colorado Ave #4207 Parachute, CO 81635 or visit: ronbaileyphotography.com Ron Bailey Photography is available for projects of any size by calling 970-379-6127 6 March 2005 Stone Industry News Stone Industry News March 2005 7 ITSS-Miami Opens March 31ST at Miami Beach Convention Center Miami Beach, FL - The International Tile & Stone Show - Miami (ITSSMiami), brings the stone and stone machinery industry to the heart of South Florida on Thursday, March 31st, for a three day run at the Miami Beach Convention Center, “This will be the first time in a number of years that a stone and tile oriented trade show has returned to this popular South Florida venue,” says Douglas Caires, CEO of ITSS Expos, owners and managers of the stone industry’s largest and most important stone and machine trade show. “Our decision to bring the show to Miami is proving to be a much welcomed move.” Caires continues, “Both exhibitors and attendees have expressed for some time their desire for a major industry show like ITSS in Miami Beach. The city’s proximity to the South and Central American market makes it good business sense for our exhibitors, and provides visitors with great weather and a wealth of fine hotels and restaurants. We fully expect ITSS-MIAMI to be a fantastic venue for the industry.” The 3-day ITSS-Miami Expo has attracted the most influential exhibitors who will be displaying and demonstrating the largest array of the world’s stone and stone fabrication equipment anywhere in the United States. All ITSS events have a proven track record of attracting highly qualified buyers that result in a higher ratio of buying attendees to exhibitors than any other industry offering. In addition to the widest and newest selection of tile, stone and fabrication equipment, the 2005 Miami edition of the giant show offers attendees a greatly expanded educational seminar program and a number of exciting networking events that are presented at absolutely no cost to participants. All seminars are scheduled after show hours to assure exhibitors that attendees are able to spend optimal time on the exposition floor rather than having their attention diverted elsewhere during the most productive time of the day. “Miami Beach is a natural venue for a major trade expo such as ITSS,” says Caires. “It’s easier and more economical to access by air, offers the greatest hotels and restaurants, and allows everyone to conduct important business in the most enjoyable atmosphere possible. ITSS’s trade shows have earned the reputation for being the most cost effective and responsive to the needs of both exhibitors and attendees, attracting increasing numbers with each succeeding edition. We are now clearly the show of choice for fabricators, designers, architects and specifiers who are looking for the latest tile, stone and machinery products on the market today.” As the only trade show producers in the nation devoted to all aspects of the natural and engineered stone industry, ITSS Expos’ global roster of exhibition offerings now includes Miami, New York, Las Vegas and most recently London and Ireland through the ITSS’ and The London Stone Show’s newly formed Global Stone Show Group. ITSS – Miami and Las Vegas events have been endorsed by the independent North American Machine Association (NASMA). ITSS is the only trade show in the United States to receive NASMA’s prestigious endorsement. Founding members of NASMA include such industry giants as AGM, Bergman-Blair Machine Corp., Breton SPA, CMS North America, Inc./ Brembana, Marmo Meccanica, Salem Stone, Stone Boss / International Machine Corp., and Euro Stone Machine, a Division of Pyramid Supply. For information contact ITSS Expos at 800-564-5975 or visit our website at www.itssexpos.com. ELIANE'S AMAZONIKA SERIES: ANCIENT BEAUTY OF NATURAL BRAZIL Just as an archeologist discovers hidden treasures of ancient worlds, Eliane Ceramic Tiles has uncovered the marvels of nature in its timeless Amazonika Series. Amazonika, natural materials presented in mosaics and decorative pieces, exhibits a variety of styles and hues unlike any collection available for floor and wall applicat i o n s . Amazonika is true a reflection of Brazil's native beauty and unique artistry. Amazonika's Coco Da Bahia, made from natural Brazilian coconut fiber, demonstrates dusky hues and unmatched fossilized patterns in 3" X 12," 4" X 12," 1" X 12" and 8" X 8" mesh mounted sheets. Amazonkia Selva and Quartzo presents actual bamboo and Brazilian quartzite stone in 4" X 12," 4" X 4," 4" X 12" and 3" X 12" formats. Amazonika Fruto Da Terra and Guarana's quartzite stone cobblestone appearance gives a rustic, stylish décor in 4" X 8" and 1" X 12" sizes. Amazonika's Ekos and Cristal bring a more traditional natural stone mosaic to the home in 3" X 3" and 3" X 12" sizes. And, the collection's Juta (1" X 12") series incorporates several stone pieces with natural edges in a single decorative piece. "With Amazonika, we're discovering materials, textures and colors never before used in decorative pieces. This series is truly unique, architects and designers are presented with a variety of interior decorating options through Amazonika," said Marcio Muller of Eliane. Eliane, world renowned ceramic tile producers since 1960, employs approximately 2300 people globally and has a strong distribution network across North America. For more information, please contact Eliane Ceramic Tiles USA headquarters: 1500 Luna Road, Suite 106, Carrollton, TX, 75006, Phone: 972 481 7854 Fax: 972 481 7855 e-mail: info@elianeusa.com or visit www.elianeusa.com The Marriage Fairy A couple had been married for 25 years and was celebrating the husband's 60th birthday. During the party, a fairy appeared and said that because they had been such a loving couple all those years, she would give them one wish each. The wife said, "We've been so poor all these years, and I've never gotten to see the world. I wish we could travel all over the world." The fairy waved her wand and POOF! She had the tickets in her hand. Next, it was the husband's turn. He paused for a moment, and then said, "Well, I'd like to be married to a woman 30 years younger than me." VISIT US ONLINE! www.stoneindustrynews.com The fairy waved her wand and POOF! He was 90. 8 March 2005 Stone Industry News SURFACES DELIVERS ANOTHER STELLAR SHOW FOR THE RECORD BOOKS! (Dallas, Texas) The industry is still buzzing from an incredible Surfaces 2005, which was held January 26-28 at the Sands Expo Center in Las Vegas. The energy and excitement created at the show proved-once again-it is the ONE event where floor covering professionals can see ALL the latest styles, fashions and trends and THOUSANDS of new products. The show, which had MORE products and services, a BIGGER selection of suppliers and BETTER opportunities for floor covering professionals, was a huge success overall for exhibitors and attendees. Many are calling it the best event to date! An impressive 38,209 retailers, manufacturers, distributors, architects, designers, builders and installers from around the world-a 6% increase over the 2004 eventpacked almost 500,000 net square feet of exhibit space to get a firsthand look at the new lines for 2005. A record-breaking 1,054 exhibiting companies participated in the show, which is a 14% jump from last year, confirming that attendees saw more products and services than ever in the show's 16-year history. The show attracted a lot of new manufacturers too, with 333 new companies exhibiting this year-a 7% increase over last year. "Everyone I talked to, exhibitor and attendee alike, said they were experiencing a terrific show," says Chris Davis, CEO, World Floor Covering Association (WFCA), the show's official sponsor. "Traffic was steady and strong. Exhibitors were busy and the 'buzz' on the show floor was this was the best Surfaces yet. We were ecstatic about the reaction." "The show was our best Surfaces yet!" says John Woolsey, Vice President/Marketing, Anderson Hardwood Floors. "We sent out over 8,000 invitations and I think all of them were sometimes in the exhibit at the same time." "If I had to pick one word to describe Surfaces for Gulistan, it would be that it was electric," says Tony Prestipino, Gulistan. "We exceeded our expectations, which were high to begin with. It was the perfect venue for us to showcase our new products and merchandising." "Surfaces 2005 was the best yet," says Lisa Cea, Best Laid Floors, Sedona, Ariz. "I saw the most diverse industry categories ever. The window and wall coverings pavilion was a big hit and gave me so many new ideas to grow my business. I can't wait to see what they do next year!" Exhibitors can't stop talking about how much business they did at this year's show. Serious buyers were at Surfaces to make their decisions for the entire year. "We wrote record sales and saw every major account in the industry in just three days," says Woolsey. "Bring on Surfaces 2006!" "We were pleased with the traffic in our booth," says Vince Wilkins, Tarkett USA Inc. "If foot traffic and dealer interest are any indication of a successful show, I would have to say it was a very successful show for us." "I didn't talk to one vendor who didn't say the show was terrific for them," says Lew Migliore, President, LGM Technical Carpet Services, Dalton, Ga. "Some to the point of wondering how they were going to fulfill the orders they'd gotten on their merchandise. Surfaces 2005, overall, generated more energy and excitement than I can remember." Every part of Surfaces 2005 was a huge success. The Conference Program, which was sponsored by Mannington Mills, drew attendees who were serious about education and improving their businesses2,456 sessions were attended, a 52% increase over 2004! This year's Conference Program included 41 pre-show workshops and seminars covering everything floor covering professionals need to know to be successful: marketing, sales, business, installation and design. Plus, new this year, the Window Coverings track-a hit among retailers-included courses that covered how to add this new and lucrative profit center to your store. "The educational opportunities at Surfaces are excellent," says Warren Mathusek, Mathusek Inc., Bergenfield, N.J. "This year, I sent three people from my company to various seminars. Each came back with notes, ideas and action plans to put into place different ways to improve our business. We plan on continuing to attend." "The educational events at Surfaces 2005 were A+!" says Alan Delahunty, Floor Coverings by Certified, Inc., Salt Lake City, Utah. "If you missed them you should set your sites on Surfaces 2006." "Surfaces 2005 was again a great use of timelots to shop and the two seminars I attended had an excellent amount of knowledge," says Bill Graybeal, Graybeal's Carpet Plus, Logansport, Ind. "I can't wait to put it all together for a successful 2005." This year's Installation Showcase was also a hit. The seven sessions, which were brought to you by International Certified Floorcovering Installers Association (CFI), Floor Covering Installer and National Floor Trends magazines and the World Floor Covering Association (WFCA), drew retailers and installers interested in learning how to cut costs related to call-backs on installation issues. Speakers focused on some of the more challenging types of installation, including mixed media and patterned carpet, as well as trends such as distressed flooring. "The Installation Showcase at Surfaces 2005 will only be surpassed by the Installation Showcase at Surfaces 2006!" adds Delahunty. Overall, exhibitors and attendees feel that Surfaces 2005 was a huge success and are already fired up about the 2006 event. "We're looking forward to a great 2005 and an even better 2006 Surfaces," says Hans Bakker, Director of Product Management, Beaulieu of America. "Surfaces 2005 again provided education, the latest products and networking all in one location-making it the MUST-ATTEND SHOW!" says Richard Leming, Carpet Warehouse, Oroville, Calif. Surfaces 2006 will take place February 1-3 at the Sands Expo & Convention Center, Las Vegas, Nevada USA. Call 800.547.3477 or 972.536.6400 or visit www.Surfaces.com for details on next year's event. Surfaces would like to thank the following Promotional Partners for their continued support of the industry's main event: Anderson Hardwood Floors, Beaulieu of America, BR111 Imports & Exports, Inc., Columbia Flooring, Gulistan Carpet Inc., Honeywell Nylon Inc., Mannington Mills, Master Tile, Nourison Rug Corporation, Royalty Carpet Mills, Wilsonart Flooring. Don't forget to stop by each of their booths at the show to see all the NEW products and services they're introducing for the coming year. The official sponsor of Surfaces is the World Floor Covering Association (WFCA), the floor covering industry's largest advocacy organization representing floor covering retailers, contractors and allied service providers throughout North America. The WFCA is a recognized leader in industry education and certification programs, and influences public policy affecting the floor covering industry and consumers. About Hanley Wood Hanley Wood, LLC, is the premier media company serving housing and construction. Through five operating divisions, the company produces award-winning magazines and Web sites, marquee trade shows and events, rich data and custom marketing solutions. The company also is North America's leading publisher of home plans. Hanley Wood Exhibitions (Dallas) conducts 15 trade shows, including World of Concrete, one of the top 20 trade show events in the country. Founded in 1976, Hanley Wood is a $225 million company owned by VS&A Communications Partners III, LP, the private-equity affiliate of media industry merchant bank Veronis Suhler Stevenson. Stone Industry News March 2005 9 10 March 2005 Stone Industry News Stone Industry News March 2005 11 An Interesting Forensic Science Case By Cleatus Claybeaugh At the 1994 annual awards dinner given for Forensic Science, AAFS President Dr. Don Harper Mills astounded his audience with the legal complications of a bizarre death. Here is the story: On March 23, 1994 the medical examiner viewed the body of Ronald Opus and concluded that he died from a shotgun wound to the head. Mr. Opus had jumped from the top of a ten-story building intending to commit suicide. He left a note to the effect indicating his despondency As he fell past the ninth floor his life was interrupted by a shotgun blast passing through a window, which killed him instantly. Neither the shooter nor the deceased was aware that a safety net had been installed just below the eighth floor level to protect some building workers and that Ronald Opus would not have been able to complete his suicide the way he had planned. "Ordinarily," Dr Mills continued, "Someone who sets out to commit suicide and ultimately succeeds, even though the mechanism might not be what he intended, is still defined as committing suicide." That Mr. Opus was shot on the way to certain death, but probably would not have been successful because of the safety net, caused the medical examiner to feel that he had a homicide on his hands. The room on the ninth floor, where the shotgun blast emanated, was occupied by an elderly man and his wife. They were arguing vigorously and he was threatening her with a shotgun. The man was so upset that when he pulled the trigger he completely missed his wife and the pellets went through the window striking Mr. Opus. When one intends to kill subject "A" but kills subject "B" in the attempt, one is guilty of the murder of subject "B." When confronted with the murder charge the old man and his wife were both adamant and both said that they thought the shotgun was not loaded. The old man said it was a longstanding habit to threaten his wife with the unloaded shotgun. He had no intention to murder her. Therefore the killing of Mr. Opus appeared to be an accident; that is, assuming the gun had been accidentally loaded. The continuing investigation turned up a witness who saw the old couple's son loading the shotgun about six weeks prior to the fatal accident. It transpired that the old lady had cut off her son's financial support and the son, knowing the propensity of his father to use the shotgun threateningly, loaded the gun with the expectation that his father would shoot his mother. Since the loader of the gun was aware of this, he was guilty of the murder even though he didn't actually pull the trigger. The case now becomes one of murder on the part of the son for the death of Ronald Opus. Now comes the exquisite twist. Further investigation revealed that the son was, in fact, Ronald Opus. He had become increasingly despondent over the failure of his attempt to engineer his mother's murder. This led him to jump off the ten-story building on March 23rd, only to be killed by a shotgun blast passing through the ninth story window. The son had actually murdered himself so the medical examiner closed the case as a suicide. Editor's Note: Only Cleatus Claybeaugh could be so dedicated as to uncover this story which was never intended to be revealed to the public. VISIT US ONLINE! www.stoneindustrynews.com MARBLE INSTITUTE GREATLY BROADENS REGIONAL EDUCATIONAL OFFERINGS CLEVELAND, OH., FEB 3 – The Marble Institute of America (MIA) announced today a quantum leap in its educational offerings on a regional basis, adding one-day programs and customized training for member companies to its two-day seminars on the natural stone residential business. Gary Distelhorst, executive vice president of the 1200-plus member group, called it the most dramatic expansion of the association’s regional programs, which will jump from two in 2004 to l9 in the current year. “This offering represents a milestone in our attempt to carry MIA’s educational opportunities way beyond what occurred in the past,” he said. “Members and non-members now have a choice of the education sessions they want to attend close to home and at value pricing. There’s nothing else like these offerings anywhere in the stone industry.” In addition to the five two-day residential seminars already announced, MIA will host at least 14 other oneday seminars on subjects ranging from improving shop efficiency to natural stone restoration and maintenance. The fabrication shop program will be taught by Kevin Padden, long-time industry trainer. Tom McNall will host the maintenance seminar. Distelhorst said one of the most exciting new packages will be customized programs for individual company employees, in which the firm can pick and choose among several subjects, adding up to a one-day program. In 2005, MIA one and two-day programs open to members and nonmembers will be held in Arizona, Florida, Texas, Ohio, Missouri, Kansas, Washington D.C. Virginia, Maryland, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Washington, British Columbia, Indiana, Illinois, Connecticut, Montreal, North Carolina and Oregon. Complete details on subjects, scheduling and pricing is available at www.Marble-Institute.com or by calling MIA headquarters at 440250-9222. 12 March 2005 Stone Industry News A Dog's Life By Francis Heck, Editor Let me introduce you to Chance. Over the years our family rather liked to have a dog around the house… and Lola bought our first Boxer puppy early in our marriage. We were young and didn't know a great deal about raising a dog, much less training him. Amazingly enough the dog gradually learned somehow to communicate… probably better to us than us to him. He passed on about 8 years later about the time we began raising our daughter. Many years passed and we were without another dog. Our daughter seemed to like having a cat or two around the house. Eventually she purchased a beautiful purebred Boxer and did a great job training him to sit, stay, come and some of the basic commands that make a dog more compatible. When Penny moved out on her own she left Bristol with us because he had matured and was familiar with his surroundings. He had a good home and a fenced yard and knew many of the neighbors and their dogs. He passed on well over a year ago and it was a gut wrenching experience to see the old friend leave. Lola and I adjusted very well… the dog was gone and our daughter was on her own working and feathering her nest. We were able to come and go without the encumbrances of making arrangements for the care of a dog. We were always at the ready to go to dinner with friends, meet for a game of cards, or see a movie on a moments notice. Someone told me that the saying, "Life begins at forty," missed the mark a little. He said, "Life begins when the children move out and the dog dies." Somehow, it seems that has a ring of truth to it. Well, without asking, our daughter presented us with a sevenweek old Boxer puppy just b e f o r e Christmas. She called her mom to say, "Hey, Mom… I have your Christmas present." Mom heard a whimper in the background and told her, "Penny, you didn't get a dog did you?" Well, after some discussion, we met at the pet shop and bought the necessary gear to begin another family. Chance was a beautiful dog and so warm and cuddly. I thought, "Well, after all, it is a Christmas present… I guess we will have to keep him." Penny told us his dad is big… about 100 lbs, and he is brindle, just like this puppy. And his mother is huge also. So we expect this to be a big Boxer. It was cold when he arrived so we set up a kennel cage in the house. It seemed to make it very easy for him to learn to go outside to do his business. We carefully followed the instructions that came with the kennel for our potty training lessons. It worked! We decided we should teach this dog to behave; so at 12 weeks we enrolled him in the Shekinah Cannine Academy, a kindergarten puppy training course. This week he graduated at or near the top of his class. When he arrived we could hold him in one hand… now 16 weeks later he weighs in at just over 31 pounds. Others in the class were amazed and how much he grew during the 6 week course. It appears he is putting on weight at roughly four pounds each week. He has mastered several of the commands such as "let's go," which means he is to walk beside us without pulling on his leash (that's important if a dog weighs 100 pounds). Of course the sit command, followed by down and stay were a part of the training. Come means he drops everything and comes to you when you call him… but he still struggles with that command a little, especially if he is distracted with another friend. I feel really powerful when we walk to the door and I tell him to Sit, Stay! And I open the door and command Charge! It really works and he runs outside to do his business. Never underestimate the importance of a professional trainer in developing good behavior in your dog. The fee is reasonable if you consider the cost divided by the life expectancy of the dog. I was doing some things wrong from the very beginning and the instructor let me know that I shouldn't allow the dog to play too rough and bite and growl with me. I enjoyed the rough-housing; but for the sake of our compatibility (especially when he get 90 to 100 pounds) I gave up some of our destructive play. By the time we enrolled him in school he was developing some characteristics that could not be allowed… even though both of us enjoyed it at the time. So, mouthing is a nono! I can't allow him to put his mouth on me… or anyone else, because the day will come when it would be harmful. Chance had to learn he is to be submissive to his leader and be respectful of authority. It has been a thrill to watch Chance develop into a well behaved dog… even though he still has a ways to go. A concept occurred to me during the course; it would probably be a great idea for all expectant parents to purchase a puppy and go through obedience training with it before the baby arrives. The parallels are amazing… but I don't think society would allow pinch collars on children… Hey, I was just kidding! The important learning process is that behavior is learned and it is as important for the authority figure to learn it as well as the subject. I am not sure I will ever understand why we have to turn around three times before laying down. Life is good and we are enjoying our new pet, Chance. VISIT US ONLINE! www.stoneindustrynews.com Hearing vs. Listening What a woman says: Cmon...This place is a mess! You and I need to clean. Your pants are on the floor and you'll have no clothes if we don't do laundry now! What a man hears: C'MON....blah, blah, blah YOU AND I blah, blah, blah, blah, blah ON THE FLOOR blah, blah, blah, NO CLOTHES blah, blah, blah, blah, NOW! Stone Industry News March 2005 13 YOU CAN'T PUT A PRICE ON PIECE-OF-MIND. Hard Rock Tool, the company that ing one of there locations. He WarmlyYours NOW SHIPS A NEW FLOOR HEATING provides the most comprehensive chose not to miss the once in a life- TESTER FREE WITH EVERY ORDER DELIVERING VALUE SWEEPSTAKES and complete line of tools and supplies for working with marble, granite and tile, is proudly celebrating their 10-year anniversary. In an effort to show their appreciation to all of their loyal customers they are offering an amazing opportunity; "Delivering Value Sweepstakes" - a drawing for a Chevrolet 1500 Crew Cab Truck. The pronounced winner for the month of January is Fred Preston owner of Counter Connection located in Irwing, TX. He was awarded a $500.00 Best Buy gift card and a Trip-For-Two to the grand prize location, (which includes hotel and airfare) to Las Vegas, NV. He also is fortunate enough to be eligible to win the Grand Prize - a 2005 Chevy Pickup Truck! How did he do it? He entered into a year of prizes at either the tradeshows or by visit- time opportunity, and now it's your turn. To enter you can visit the website at www.hardrocktool.com. Another option would be to go to a Hard Rock Tool location nearest you. While you're there you can take a look at their many products that will keep you on the cutting edge and take advantage of their excellent customer service. - MORE Hard Rock Tool's rock solid and polished service shines through in the tools they provide. They strive to bring their customers the best products and service in the marble and granite industry. They have 20 delivery vehicles servicing customers in 32 states from coast to coast and well-stocked warehouses in every time zone in the U.S. Hard Rock Tool puts its customers first. Allowing tile installers to test electric floor heating effectively, the Safety Siren from WarmlyYours helps attain a faultfree installation on every job. By checking the continuity of the floor heating system at all time during installation, the Safety Siren brings peace of mind to tile contractors. It beeps as soon as a short in the system is created, alerting the tile contractor to call WarmlyYours 24/7 technical support for immediate assistance. The troubleshooting team will then work to help the installer fix any problems ASAP. No longer will a tile contractor accidentally install tile over a damaged wire or system. Though OHM readings can help determine if a system is working, they identify the problem only when it is too late. The Safety Siren detects inci- dents BEFORE the tile contractor lays tile over the system. The Safety Siren is simple, effective, and is a preventative maintenance item for a successful tile installation. Directions for use are enclosed with the Safety Siren. WarmlyYours is the leading manufacturer and distributor of radiant floor warming systems designed for installation under ceramic tile, natural stone, carpeting, laminate and wood floor coverings. For more information, contact Nicolas Mottet, Marketing Communications Manager, WarmlyYours, 1400 E. Lake Cook Rd.,Ste. 140 Buffalo Grove, IL 60089; Tel: 800.875.5285; e-mail: nmottet@warmlyyours.com; website: www.warmlyyours.com. 14 March 2005 Stone Industry News Stone Industry News March 2005 15 16 March 2005 Stone Industry News MARMO MECCANICA USA EXHIBITS STATE-OF-THE-ART STONE FABRICATION MACHINERY AT ITSS MIAMI 2005 SOUTHFIELD, Mich., February 1, 2005 - Marmo Meccanica USA, North America's leading granite and marble fabrication distributor, announces it will be exhibiting its premium equipment at the International Tile & Stone Show (ITSS) at the Miami Beach Convention Center in Miami, Booth #602, March 31 - April 2. Marmo Meccanica will be exhibiting a wide range of its stone processing machinery, including its new CTEC 3 CNC machine; the HTO-1B, its premium bridge saw; as well as the LCT 522 CAI, one of its top-ofthe-line polishing machines for granite and marble fabrication. CTEC 3 The CTEC 3 is the most versatile, easy-to-use, and affordable stone fabricating CNC machine on the market today. It is ideal for granite shops in North America who want high quality processing of marble, granite and stone. The durable C-TEC 3 easily processes kitchen counter tops, sink holes and table tops. It can accurately router, profile and polish any edge style or carving design. The large table has a 124" X 66" useful working area that can process slabs up to 12 ½" thick. Moveable aprons provide easy loading and unloading of slabs of all sizes. The C-TEC3 is a numerically controlled 3-axis machine based on the traditional moving bridge architecture. The axis movement is on linear guides and skates. The movement of the X an Y axis is transmitted by precision screws, while the Y axis is transmitted by tempered racks and pinions. All moving parts are lubricated by oil controlled by the CNC, and the mechanical moving parts are protected from dust and humidity by protective covers. Bridge Saw HTO-1B The HTO-1B is a fully automatic bridge saw that is ideal for quickly and accurately cutting granite and marble slabs. The HTO-1B is an extremely heavy-duty, well build machine designed for the toughest cutting jobs. It is made with a doublebeam bridge and oversized steel LCT 522 CAI Edge Polishing Machine The LCT 522 CAI is a highly effective edge polishing machine featuring a user friendly operating system that ensures a high rate of production at a low cost per lineal foot. Its small footprint, combined with its high reliability and low cost, make it ideal for granite shops in North America who want high quality processing of marble and granite. The LCT is extremely userfriendly. The operator needs only to input the thickness of the material as well as the appropriate angles for the type of edge being p r o c e s s e d . Typically, this is 7 to173 degrees for full bull nose and 7 to 90 degrees for a one-half bull nose. The LCT 522 produces 30-60 lineal feet of 3 cm bullnose per hour with no human intervention. Many types of edge treatments can be processed on the LCT 522. In addition to squared off or inclined edges, it polishes toroidal edges, rounded and other convex shapes on slabs of marble or granite. Granite and marble slabs are vertically inserted into the LCT 522 CAI. Handling slabs vertically not only reduces the possibility of material breakage, it also considerably reduces the floor space and work area requirements. Meccanica USA, headquartered in Southfield, Mich., is the North American distributor of Marmo Meccanica SPA machinery and equipment. Marmo Meccanica SPA is an Italian manufacturer of precision processing machinery for marble, granite, and engineered stone fabrication. Marmo Meccanica manufactures bridge saws, edge polishing machines, and CNC equipment. For further information, see www.marmousa.com. Story of a Conductor He was a mediocre conductor of a mediocre orchestra. He had been having problems with the basses; they were the least professional of his musicians. It was the last performance of the season, Beethoven's 9th Symphony, which required extra effort from the basses at the end. Earlier that evening, he found the basses celebrating one of their birthdays by passing a bottle around. As he was about to cue the basses, he knocked over his music stand. The sheet music scattered. As he stood in front of his orchestra, his worst fear was realized; it was the bottom of the 9th, no score and the basses were loaded. construction. Bridge movement is on cylindrical rollers contained in oiled guides. Rack and pinion gearing with helicoidal teeth ensure smooth movements, reducing play and wear. The bridge saw is programmable, which allows the operator to program its movement in manual, semi automatic and automatic cutting mode. The controls are easily understood and simple to operate. A 20 HP motor provides cutting speeds of approximately 120 lineal ft. of 3 cm. (1.18-in.) material per hour. The unit's cutting blade head can tilt from 0° to 90°. Thanks to its precision components and construction, angle cuts are accurate and easily made. VISIT US ONLINE! www.stoneindustrynews.com Stone Industry News March 2005 17 SURFACES 2006 ALREADY UNDER WAY! (Dallas, Texas) Commitments for Surfaces 2006 are coming in earlier than ever! Show Management recently received the news that Mannington Mills has already committed to participating in next year's show, which will take place February 1-3 at the Sands Expo & Convention Center, Las Vegas, Nevada USA. "Mannington Mills is an outstanding company that is dedicated to the needs of their customers," says Galen Poss, President, Hanley Wood Exhibitions. "They have been a terrific Surfaces partner and participant for many years. Their early decision regarding next year's show validates their commitment to their customers and the value of Surfaces." In addition, conversations have already begun with numerous other companies that exhibit at Surfaces. Along with many others, Beaulieu of America, Abbey Carpet, Crossville, Laticrete International, Nance Carpet, X-Treme Flooring and World Sales Group have called to express interest in reserving their space for 2006. Show Management is currently in discussions with the top 15 companies in the show regarding their placement for Surfaces 2006. In mid to late April, complete exhibitor packets of information on next year's show will be sent out, including contracts, floor plans and Surfaces 2005 attendee stats. Space Draw will take place closer to the end of May. Deadlines and details will be available soon. Companies with questions about exhibiting at Surfaces 2006 can call the Surfaces sales team at 800.547.3477 or 972.536.6400. The official sponsor of Surfaces is the World Floor Covering Association (WFCA), the floor covering industry's largest advocacy organization representing floor covering retailers, contractors and allied service providers throughout North America. The WFCA is a recognized leader in industry education and certification programs, and influences public policy affecting the floor covering industry and consumers. About Hanley Wood Hanley Wood, LLC, is the premier media company serving housing and construction. Through five operating divisions, the company produces award-winning magazines and Web sites, marquee trade shows and events, rich data and custom marketing solutions. The company also is North America's leading publisher of home plans. Hanley Wood Exhibitions (Dallas) conducts 15 trade shows, including World of Concrete, one of the top 20 trade show events in the country. Founded in 1976, Hanley Wood is a $225 million company owned by VS&A Communications Partners III, LP, the private-equity affiliate of media industry merchant bank Veronis Suhler Stevenson. ILVA EMBRACES RICH VARIETY OF ANDES MOUNTAINS WITH NEW ANDES SERIES From the humid tropics of the Caribbean to the ice fields of Patagonia, the Andes Mountains reign as the world's largest and most diverse mountain chain. Stretching along the entire west coast of South America, the Andes encompass a wide range of ecosystems and rich habitats. Ilva S.A., the leading Argentine producer of porcelain tile, is introducing its Andes Series as a companion to South America's natural wonder. With natural shade variations of true earth-tone colors and a classic texture, Ilva's Andes porcelain tile mimics the spectacular Andes Mountains. Rectified with an unglazed surface, the Andes Series is a full wall and floor package for residential and commercial applications. Andes offers field tiles in 20" X 20," 14" X 14," 7" X 14" and 7" X 7" sizes. Mosaics in a 3.4" X 3.4" and 1.6" X 3.4" size are tumbled and mesh mounted on 14" X 14" sheets while 4" X 8.5" tile is also offered with Andes, tumbled and mesh mounted in an offset brick pattern. Decorative pieces are also available through Andes. "Because Andes is an unglazed series in Ilva's Gres Porcellanato collection, it is a through body porcelain with consistent color pigments and an incredibly aesthetic look. The tile's high abrasion level makes it ideal for heavy traffic," said Ilva's Export Manager Vanesa McIntosh. "This exquisite series is an example of Ilva's advanced technology in the production of porcelain tile. Beautiful and durable, Andes is perfect for any environment." For more information, contact Ceramic Consulting Corporation, 4040 La Playa Blvd, Coconut Grove, FL 33133 Phone: 305.667.7090 Fax: 305.667.8614 e-mail: ceramic1@bellsouth.net or, Pacific Imports Corp., 42704 10th Street West, Lancaster, CA 93534 Phone: 661.942.2545 Fax: 661.723.5515 e-mail: pacific.imports@verizon.net or, Heartland Tile, 7000 H. Commerce Pkwy, Mt. Laurel, NJ 08054 Phone: 856.608.0012 Fax: 856.608.0782 e-mail: gthorp@heartlandtile.com. FULL RANGE OF PROMOTIONAL TOOLS AVAILABLE THROUGH STONEXPRESS StoneXpress, high-quality natural stone suppliers offering the grandeur and quality of natural stone with competitive pricing, presents a full range of promotional tools. Specializing in fast handling and exceptional customer service, StoneXpress delivers to any location in the United States within 72 hours after an order is taken. Promotional tools accessible through StoneXpress include: large and small display boards, a sixpage product brochure at no charge, a chip box with 2 ½" X 5" boards featuring 2" X 2" product samples and loose samples. StoneXpress small display boards are conveniently sized at 6" X 30." Light weight and easy to handle, the boards, in a sets of five, highlight StoneXpress beautiful colors and important technical information. Large boards are available in a 24" X 27" size, displaying a full range of the elegant StoneXpress product. All loose sample requests can be combined and shipped with orders. StoneXpress products are immediately available through the firm's United States inventory. StoneXpress is a high quality stone program made easy for the contractor, the installer and the retailer. For more information on StoneXpress, please contact Tisha Eadie of Communicators International, Inc. at 50 Exchange Street, Portland, ME 04101 by phone: 207.828.8050, by fax: 207.828.8609 or through email: tme@communicatorsintl.com. 18 March 2005 Stone Industry News Stone Industry News March 2005 19 BRAZILIAN STONE INDUSTRY CREDITS ITSS TRADE SHOWS FOR INCREASED GRANITE SALES were particularly pleased with the Sao Paulo, Brazil – Renato professional manner in which ITSS Sabaine, Special Projects Coordinator for the U.S. Department Expos runs their shows, and commented on the quality of the visitors of Commerce, reports that Brazil’s who attended.” fast growing stone industry credits participation in ITSS Expos Las Vegas and New York trade shows for its ascent to the #1 exporter of granite to the United States. In a recent Q&A with Sergio Azerado, president of ABIROCHAS (Associacao Brasileira de RochasOrnamentais), Mr. Azerado stated that the ITSS principals, Douglas Caires (left) and Richard Brazilian stone companies Caires (right) greet Christine Rodrigues and Sergio who exhibited last October Azerado, president of ABIROCHAS, at the Brazilian at ITSS-Las Vegas, the origiPavilion during a recent ITSS trade show. nal Las Vegas stone trade ITSS-Las Vegas is the original show, enjoyed outstanding results and only permanent west coast stone, both in sales and in important new stone machinery and allied services contacts. industry show, attracting larger num“The exposure of the Brazilian bers of exhibitors, more square stone industry at ITSS has been footage and highest ratio of attendees extremely important to consolidate to exhibitors, resulting in more qualithe position of Brazilian granite as fied buying attendees than any other the #1 in quality and services. We industry offering.“Our philosophy are confident that our continued has been to leave no stone unturned presence at ITSS events will be to make our show great, and we are helpful in maintaining that status,” pleased and proud that the Las Vegas said Azerado. show surpassed our exhibitors’ Azerado went on to note that expectations,” says Doug Caires, ABIROCHAS has actively particiCEO of ITSS Expos, the show’s propated in U.S. trade shows since ducers. 1999, and their current program In addition to the widest and calls for them to exhibit in all ITSS newest selection of tile, stone and events, including the upcoming Miami edition scheduled for March stone fabrication equipment, ITSS offers attendees an expanded educa30th-April 2nd at the Miami Beach tional seminar program and a number Convention Center. “Miami is one of exciting networking events that of the largest outlets for Brazilian are presented at absolutely no cost to stone products, and we feel it is an participants. All seminars were important place for our industry to scheduled after show hours to assure be promoted,” continued Azerado. exhibitors that attendees were able to “From the beginning we have had excellent working relationships with spend optimal time on the exposition floor rather than having their attenthe management of ITSS, and we tion diverted elsewhere during the consider them to be a great partner most productive time of the day. to the stone industry.” As the only trade show in the “ITSS-Las Vegas provided the nation devoted to all aspects of the Brazilian companies with an ideal natural and engineered stone indusvenue to exhibit their newest prodtry, ITSS enjoys the endorsement of ucts,” said the Department of Commerce’s Sabaine. “They are all the independent North American looking forward exhibiting at ITSS- Machinery Association (NASMA). ITSS is the only trade show in the Miami in late March, and are expecting even greater results They United States to receive NASMA’s prestigious endorsement. ITSS-MIAMI will take place at the Miami Beach Convention Center, March 31st – April 2nd, 2005. This will be the first time in a number of years that a stone and tile oriented trade show has returned to this popular South Florida venue. “Our decision to bring the show to Miami is proving to be a much welcomed move,” says Richard Caires, president of ITSS Expos, the show’s producers. “Both exhibitors and attendees have expressed for some time their desire for a major industry show like ITSS in Miami Beach. The city’s proximity to the South and Central American market makes it good business sense for our exhibitors, and provides visitors with great weather and a wealth of fine hotels and restaurants. We fully expect ITSS-MIAMI to be an excellent venue for the industry.” For information contact ITSS Expos at 800-564-5975 or visit our website at www.itssexpos.com. 21st Edition Indiana Limestone Handbook The design manual used for many years by architects, engineers, contractors, and others who work with Indiana Limestone standards and recommend practices. This publication also contains details, specifications, and other pertinent information. Send $20.00 (check or money order) to: Indiana Limestone Institute Suite 400 Stone City Bank 1502 1 Street, Bedford, IN 47421 812-275-4426 SUBSCRIPTION FORM If you are in the stone, tile, or solid surface industries and would like to receive a copy of Stone Industry News mailed to you every month, please fill out the subscription form and e-mail it to fheck@stoneindustrynews.com, or print and complete the form and fax it to Stone Industry News at 938-947-8958. Name _________________________________________________ Title___________________________________________________ Company Name_________________________________________ Address________________________________________________ City____________________State______________ZIP__________ Phone__________________Fax____________________________ E-Mail_________________________________________________ Website________________________________________________ Please check all that apply: ___Quarrier ___ Equipment Sales ___Fabricator ___Distributor of Tools ___Installer ___ Solid Surface Mfg. ___Stone Distributor ___Solid Surface Fabricator ___Equipment Manufacturer ___Tile Mfg, Dist, Sales ___Other_____________________________________________ ___I am interested in advertising. Please contact me with information. 20 March 2005 Stone Industry News Matrix Daytona Edge Profile System… Price reduced $30,000. Call Professional Stone Care Phone 714-533-3685 2/05 DONATI -NEW- Electric Chain Hoist 1000KG (2,200 LB) capacity. Complete includes hoist, chain & and training available. Call 254-722- storage box, trolley components, all 0775. electrical cables, connectors & con2/05 trol pendant. NEW - NEVER USED !!!! $1,200.00 USD. Contact Kevin (3) Bevelloni 1025 CNC's. New at 480-963-2399 or e-mail at kevinSpindle Bearings, Belts, Bearings, mpadden@cox.net New Vacuum Pumps and water 2/05 pumps and stainless steel tool tray shafts. Runs good. Upgrading. HELP WANTED Asking $100,000 obo. Phone 314Career oportunities with up and 680-1643 or 314-966-4747. Located coming granite fabrication shop in in Midwest. Central Jersey area.Available positions include: Templaters,Fabricators 2001 Marmo Meccanica LBF-L. and installers Call us to set up an Paid $56,000. Selling Price $36,000. interview at (732)922-1701 Or fax a Contact Dean Corbin resume to (732)922-1705 Phone 951-738-1640 3/05 2/05 Park SS-150 Radial Arm multipurpose stone working machine. Excellent condition. $36,000 firm. Put your ship into the limestone business. Mill limestone arches, surface polish granite, mill granite sink holes. In Michigan. Call Tom 810844-2500 2/05 ANR 130 Job Site Saw. 54" length of cut on monorail. $1,500. In Michigan. Call Tom 810-844-2500. 2/05 Breton NC 120 CNC Machine, 3 axis for cutting, engraving, profile edges, everything needed for kitchen counter top fabricators. The best employee you can have! Machine is in new condition and still operating, producing (3) kitchens a day. Great price of $85,000. Call 301-887-1014 2/05 Park Industries Pro Edge II with table cutter in great condition waiting for that counter top fabricator than needs to increase production. Low price of $45,800. Call 301887-1014 2/05 Come live in beautiful Flagstaff, Arizona. Looking for experienced installers and fabricators to work at a local family run granite shop. Call 928-527-9024 or e-mail gemsforyourhome@hotmail.com. 3/05 OPERATIONS MANAGER WANTED FOR STONE FABRICATION INDUSTRY IN THE WESTBURY AREA. EXPERIENCE NECESSARY. RESPONSIBILITIES INCLUDE SUPERVISION OF CREW, SCHEDULING, JOB LAYOUTS, AND KNOWLEDGE OF CAD DRAWINGS AND SHOP TICKETS. PLEASE SEND ALL RESUMES WITH SALARY REQUIREMENTS TO (516)9973682, ATTENTION JAIME G. 3/05 Experienced fabricators, countertop installers and flooring installation supervisors wanted in the fastest growing area in the USA; Naples, FL. Career minded individuals who want to grow tih a company that has been established in south Florida for many years. We offer top pay, excellent benefits, vacation and 401K. Please fax resume to 239597-0009. CLASSIFIEDS FOR SALE Two GMM Bridge-Saws for sale. VERY GOOD PRICE... Call 908887-4014 3/05 Achilli TFM/CE 3000 bridge saw manufactured 1997. Great machine $10,000 or best offer. Call Don or Lyle at 970-626-3055. 3/05 Reference Braxton-Bragg catalog: #1405 -Achilli hydraulic slab cart, #3610 - Trac Star 2000, #9232 heavy duty slab dolly, #3735 - Ston Pro carry clamps, # 80301 Braxton-Bragg seam setter and #3735 - Stone Pro suction cup assembly. All purchased new in 2004. For sale by owner to highest offers faxed to 615-790-6700 or call Frances Smith 615-418-3535. or email graniteguysemail@aol.com. 3/05 Fantini Diamond Wire Saw, cut or shape large boulders or concrete. Full of steel. Can be used with hydraulic or electrical power sources. $22,500.00. Excellent condition. Call Ruby Gravel, Castleton, VT 802-265-3644. 3/05 PARK ACCUCUT SAW ASKING $15,000, PARK PRO EDGE 1 ASKING $20,000, PARK PRO EDGE 2 ASKING $40,000, JAGUAR C4000 ASKING $55,000, ACHILLI MULTICUT SAW ASKING $7500, FOMA RADIAL ARM POLISHER ASKING $2000 AND ITALIAN ROUND TABLE CUTTING SAW ASKING $1000.00. ALL IN GOOD WORKING CONDITION. EMAIL SERIOUS INQUIRIES TO BILL@HAIFAINC.COM 3/05 model uses the filter bag system which is the most efficient and economical solution in the industry. The machine is one year old and is in perfect working condition. The sale price is $2,200 which is less than half the price of a new machine. Call 978-777-4070 3/05 Two 16 ft waterfall Dust Busters (Dust Collectors). These machines are two years old in great condition. Sale price $5,000 each. Call 978777-4070. 3/05 FOR SALE: over 2,000 cubic feet antique architectural Indiana Limestone. Inventory consists of 3\" veneer, ornate dentil cornice and numerous door & window surrounds, including arches. Much of the stone is over 80 years old and has a beautiful patina. Contact for inventory, profiles and photos. E-mail: wminc@skybest.com or Call 828.297.5557/828.964.2816 3/05 Commandulli - Speedy System, 2000 model straight line edge polisher. Excellent condition (2048 hours). Asking $30,000. Call June 706-2838827 or Greg 706-318-3768. 3/05 Multi-head edging machine, OMGM Bellani. 5 years old, good condition. Can produce 80 LF per hour flat polished edge, 60 LF hour bullnose edge. Will train in our shop for as long as needed. Machine available 4-15-05. Asking $45,000, located in southeastern Michigan. Call Josh @ 313-362-0123. 3/05 2003 Bristol Straight Edge Polisher, 700 hours, just reconditioned by Regent. $38,000 with 2 sets of CNC bits. Regent installation Denver Sludge Dehydrator. This Stone Industry News Agents/Distributors Wanted for marketing of pre-fabricated modular granite from Brazil. We are Estimator/draftsperson. Capable of take-off, shop drawings and fabri- manufacturers and direct importers cation tickets. Must have prior gran- of our production. We carry a complete line of modular granite and ite and marble fabrication experience. E-mail resume to unique_mar- stock high levels in Miami, FL. We ship all over USA and need additionble@verizon.net. al agents at this time. We supply you 3/05 with all necessary marketing tools. Call Rick 305-957-9990. We are looking for an energetic 3/05 and motivated individual for a sales position. Applicants should have good presentation, communica- Looking for Estimator/Draftsperson to outtion skills and the ability to form source: Takeoffs', Shop Drawings credible business relationships. and Fabrication Tickets. Must have Duties include coordination of outside and inside sales efforts, presen- ability to receive drawings by e-mail. tation of educational and informative Fax Resume with rates seminars, and production of market- to 336-722-0094. 3/05 ing materials. The position will require some travel and potential NC Stone Industry Leader looking availability on evenings and weekto hire experienced persons for the ends. Some sales experience and following positions: Account Reps, knowledge of stone masonry conWarehouse Manager, CNC struction is preferred. Salary negotiable. Benefits include health insur- Operator, Saw Operator, Hand Fabricator, and Installer. Please ance and 401(k) plan. fax resume to 336-273-0699, Attn: Send resumes to: Delta Stone Len Malave. Must have at least 2 Products, Inc., 2276 South Daniels years prior experience in the indusRoad, Heber City, UT 84032; fax: try. Serious Inquiries Only. 435-654-3337 or e-mail 2/05 robert@utahstone.com or contact Robert Hicken 435-654-3336. An experienced stone install fore3/05 man who is professional, self-motiNatural stone company is seeking vated, detail oriented, and one who possesses excellent customer relaan experienced stone mason on a full time basis. Needs to be experi- tion skill. Must be able to template, enced in carving, pitching and fixing. assist with scheduling, in the Las Vegas, NV area. Looking to advance Ryanstone is based in co. Wicklow, career with the growing company. Ireland, 15 miles outside Dublin. Call 702-645-9397. Contact Kevin via phone 003532/05 45865139 or e-mail enquiries@ryanston.com. Experienced and loyal installer 3/05 needed to install countertops, fireplaces, showers, and more in Las Manufacturer of modular granite Vegas, NV area. Call 702-645-9397 if interested (pre-fabricated) has opened large 2/05 service shop in Miami, FL and seeking basic fabrication and Large, well-established Corian installation workers strictly for Company in Nashville, TN is now kitchen and bathroom tops. No expanding with a Granite and custom work allows process to be fast and efficient. We have plenty of Engineered Stone Division. Our new facility will be high-tech and work and will provide all tooling. geared for volume. We are looking Truck a must. Call Rick 305-957for experienced and detail-oriented 9990 fabricators, installers, and CNC 3/05 Operators. Pay dependant on experi3/05 March 2005 e-mail l.amacher@norwoodmarble.com. 2/05 21 ence. Fax resume to 615-255-2906. Call Gary 615-259-9040 (office) or 615-426-3181 (mobile). 2/05 CNC Operator - Opening for an operator of an industrial CNC stone fabrication machine. The work includes the set up and operation of the machine. Applicant must be familiar with the use of a PC and have a good understanding of mathematics. Previous experience in the operation of a CNC machine and background education in this field a must, but we will also train the right person. Please e-mail resumes to l.amacher@norwoodmarble.com or fax to 301-887-1018. 2/05 Inside and Outside Sales - Marble & Granite Fabrication company serving MD, VA and DC is seeking experienced Inside and Outside sales representatives. Sales of our natural stone products will be directed towards kitchen shops, builders, remodelers, designers, and architects. Successful candidates must have 3+ years of sales experience. Candidates must also have a knowledge of design. Please specify if you are applying for Inside or Outside Sales and fax your resume to Liana @ 301-887-1014 or e-mail to l.amacher@norwoodmarble.com 2/05 Field Supervisor - Marble and Granite fabrication company serving DC, MD and VA is seeking an experienced Field Supervisor for the installation of all phases of stone work. Responsibilities include; supervisiong installation crews, and resolving on-site customer issues. Benefits and company vehicle will be provided. Please send resume by fax or e-mail to the attention of Liana @ 301-887-1018 or e-mail l.amacher@norwoodmarble.com. 2/05 Installers - Marble/Granite fabricator looking for experienced installers with 3-5 years experience. Great job! Great pay! Looking for only the best. Immediate opening. Please fax your resume to Liana @ 301-887-1014 or Salesperson needed for busy, highend marble and granite fabricator located in southern Connecticut area. Must have verifiable track record and top notch resume with experience in kitchen and bath sales. Salary commensurate with experience. Alternating Saturdays required. Please fax resume to Lou at Fordham Marble Company, Inc. 718-893-3322 1/05 Experienced fabricators and installers needed for busy marble & granite shop in NJ. Full time. Must be professional, quality-minded, and responsible, and must have legal working papers. Salary based on experience. Please call 973-8573655 or fax resume to 973-857-3755. 1/05 Experienced shop foreman wanted for busy quality-minded company in NJ. Must be experienced with all phases of templating, fabrication and installation of stone tops. Must know how to train and communicate with people. Spanish skills a plus. Salary based on experience and is negotiable. Please call 973-8573655 or fax resume to 973-857-3755. 1/05 Require Granite counter fabricators Urgent wanted experienced workers for granite kitchen counter fabricators/Installers Contact KrystalDesign&Collections tel 678 594 4740 fax 678 594 4744 cell 678 360 5117 e mail ; krystalexports@aol.com 1/05 POSITIONS WANTED Experienced granite & marble salesman with 14 years in the industry, looking for position with a quality fabricator in the South Florida area. Call Bobby 561-373-6041 or e-mail brotker@netzero.com. 3/05 Installation manager with excellent management, installation and sales 22 March 2005 Stone Industry News experience seeking position with established company. Presently in Livonia, MI but will consider relocation. Call Mike at 734-525-5705 or 734-368-4359 or e-mail acemarbleandgranite@twmi.com. 3/05 17 years experienced English fixer mason/foreman. Sand/Lime stone,granite/marble. Would like to work abroad, references available, please contact dumbs10@hotmail.com. 1/05 Proven sales professional seeking opportunity to market slabs or fabricated stone products in Mid-Florida area. Knowledgeable of templating and fabrication for unique applications. Call 386-426-6995 or mobile 386-690-6552. 1/05 VISIT THESE WEBSITES! Aeigis Commerce www.aegiscommerce.com AMJ Supply www.amjsupply.com Autumn Home Web www.autumnhome.com BSI-Building Stone Institute www.buildingstone.org Cee-Jay Tool Company, Inc. www.ceejaytool.com Cemar Electro Inc. www.cemarelectro.com CMS North America www.cmsna.com Coverings www.coverings.com GranQuartz www.granquartz.com Groves Incorporated www.groves.com Indiana Limestone Institute www.iliai.com ITSS-International Tile & Stone Show www.itssexpos.com FREE CLASSIFIEDS SEND YOUR INFORMATION TO STONE INDUSTRY NEWS AND WE WILL PRINT YOUR CLASSIFIEDS FREE! FAX: (865)938-8958 WWW.STONEINDUSTRYNEWS.COM MAIL: P .O. Box 1508 Powell, TN 37849 May those who love us, love us And those that don’t love us, May God turn their hearts And if he doesn’t turn their hearts, May he turn their ankles So we’ll know them by their limping --Old Gaelic Blessing WANTED TO BUY Looking for Park Pro-Edge III in good condition. Call 661-979-3603. 3/05 BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES Granite shop for sale due to illness. Located in Northern California. 500K per year in sales. Negotiable price and option to keep good faith name. For information call 888-2298759 3/05 Complete marble and granite fabrication shop for sale. Building 10,000 square feet on one acre lot. Complaete with Terzago bridge saw, two (2) nine foot Capelli saws, band saw, two slab polishers; Tysaman and Capelli, Three (3) fork lifts, one yard crane (Grove), complete floor polishing system with four floor polishers, large compressor, six (6) pneumatic polishers, Sector router, flat bed GMC 7000 with crane, etc. Too much to list. $350,000. Vineland, NY near Philadelphia. Call 856-794-1900 2/05 Marble Institute of America www.marble-institute.com Marmo Meccanica www.marmomeccanica.com Matrix Stone Products www.matrixstoneproducts.com Park Industries www.parkindustries.com Sommer & Maca www.somaca.com Stone Industry News www.stoneindustrynews.com StonExpo www.stonexpo.com Texas Stone Quarries www.texastone.com US Granite Machinery, Inc. www.usgranitemachinery.com VIC International www.vicintl.com W.F. Meyers www.wfmeyers.com Stone Industry News March 2005 23 MC Tile Inc. Delivers State of the Art Technology To the Tile and Granite Market in the Greater Houston Area MC Tile Inc. established in 1987 by Mario & Mene Cruz has since become one of the largest tile installers for residential home construction in the Houston Texas Market. In 2001 MC Tile expanded from a primary installer to becoming an importer and distributor of tile from various counties worldwide. They are one of the few installers in the Houston market that distributes their own line of tile and at any given time have over two million feet stocked. Mene and Mario strive to provide great service and superior materials at the best prices. They believe in hands on approach and are involved in all aspects of the business process. In 2004, the company expanded into the granite industry establishing a position in their market as a full-scale fabricator and installer for residential home construction. Production started in January 2005 with a combined space of 50,000 square feet. The facility now has the ability to stock approximately three thousand slabs of granite in addition to the two million feet of tile. The company has evolved to about 20 employees not including the 25 crews of installers. The Granite division is equipped with Matrix Stone Products equipment that includes two Daytona Edge profiling systems and a Sebring Gantry Saw. The function integrates its template process that consists of a CAD Digitizer to provide the most accurate template production and rapid transferability which allows MC Tile to transfer directly form the job site to production site via computer files and e-mailing. The result is a high quality product with great consistency in a very competitive price structure and time frame. Combining that with the ability to import granite from various counties around the world allows the company to provide a turnkey operation and thus the most in value to its clientele. With the available stock, quality installers and Matrix technology, MC Tile is well equipped with the tools necessary to keep pace with Houston's continually expanding market. VISIT US ONLINE! www.stoneindustrynews.com Request for Subscription Information: Your subscription to Stone Industry News could expire. Please take a moment to send us your name, company name, address, city, state, zip and phone number of your company. If you have a website and e-mail address, please include that information also. If it is more convenient, just jot the name of people you would like to receive the publication on your letterhead and fax it to 865-938-8953. The subsription is FREE and you will benefit from news and bargains offered by suppliers. What have you got to lose? We look forward to hearing from you! 24 March 2005 Stone Industry News LOCAL NATURAL STONE TRAINING PROGRAMS ON HORIZON FOR ARCHITECTS, DESIGNERS, BUILDERS CLEVELAND, OH --The first pilot phase of a new localized continuing education program on designing natural stone projects is underway and the entire eight-part program could be rolled out by the end of 2005, according to the Marble Institute of America, which is creating the package. The program, which will be taught on a local or regional basis by members of MIA, will eventually include eight power-point presentations that cover an introduction to natural stone, natural stone selection criteria and how natural stone goes from the quarry to the residential countertop or commercial project. Called the MIA Natural Stone Continuing Education Program, the package is being developed to train architects, interior designers, general and residential contractors and stone industry employees. “This is one of the most exciting training programs ever developed by MIA,” said Garis F. Distelhorst, executive vice president of the organization which includes more than 1200 natural stone quarries, fabricators and installers in the U.S. and around the world. “When finally implemented it will make MIA members qualified to teach the program the local authority on natural stone training. Distelhorst said the continuing education package focuses on educating versus selling. “It can create a great deal of credibility for companies eventually participating in the effort.” The first power point presentation will be rolled out among eight companies in February and the remainder will be sent to the test group throughout the remainder of the year. The presentations are being developed by MIA’s Education Committee and technical staff with PowerPoint support from Kepco+, an award winning natural stone company operating in Salt Lake City. All participating MIA members will be required to participate in the special “train the trainer” program which will quality those attending to host and teach the courses. Market Your Company! Whether you're a manufacturer or fabricator, get recognized for your products and accomplishments while increasing awareness by customers and potential customers through: • News releases • Feature articles • Ads • Brochures • Direct Mail GREEN MOUNTAIN VERDE ANTIQUE MARBLE CO., INC. 834 COUNTY ROUTE 9 WHITEHALL, NEW YORK 12887 PHONE 802-265-3644 CALL THE QUARRY FOR VERDE ANTIQUE SLABS. ALSO SLATE SLABS, UNFADING GREEN, MOTTLE, BLACK, AND GRAY CALL WILLIAM RUBY 802-558-1797 5 1 Wilson Communications Public Relations/Advertising 2939 S. Rochester Road, #406 Rochester Hills, MI 48307 Call 248-789-8972 Senior Breakfast We went to breakfast at a restaurant where the "seniors' special" was two eggs, bacon, hash browns and toast for $1.99. "Sounds good," my wife said. "But I don't want the eggs." "Then I'll have to charge you two dollars and forty-nine cents because you're ordering a la carte," the waitress warned her. "You mean I'd have to pay for not taking the eggs?" My wife asked incredulously. "I'll take the special." "How do you want your eggs?" "Raw and in the shell," my wife replied. She took the two eggs home. DON'T MESS WITH SENIORS, they have been around. Stone Industry News In 2002, ALSC Architects of Spokane, Washington, began designing the Gonzaga University athletic center $25 million expansion project. After two years of construction, the McCarthey Athletic Center opened its doors as the new home of the Gonzaga Bulldogs. This new athletic center now seats 6,000 Gonzaga fans on three levels and is the second largest venue in Spokane. The arena's design and construction not only gave the University a much needed athletic facility expansion, but also accented the stadium with waterjet cut murals illustrating Gonzaga's team mascot: the Gonzaga Bulldog. On display with his tough-guy attitude and spiked red collar, the Bulldog is definitely an intimidating element for any athletic competition. Located in the center of the men's and women's locker room floors, the waterjet cut Bulldog murals utilize Spokane's Quarry Tile Company's Natural Hues line of ceramic tile in colors: "Ruby Red," "Mist," "Pearl," "White," "Blueberry," and "Tacoma." These ceramic tile murals, which were installed by Bob Hull from Bob Hull Interiors in Spokane, measured seven feet in diameter. Precision H2O, the sister firm of Quarry Tile Company, waterjet cut tile for each Bulldog mural insuring a clean, detailed final look. "We chose Precision H2O waterjet cutting for several reasons," stated Steve Hindley, March 2005 25 WATERJET CUT BULLDOG GROWLS IN NEW MCCARTHEY ATHLETIC CENTER President of ALSC Architects. "They are a local firm, they are supporters of Gonzaga University Athletics and they have the technology to produce products such as this one." "Gonzaga University has been a valued client of ALSC Architects since 1960 when our firm designed the original Kennedy Pavilion athletic facility. Since that time, we have designed all expansions of the University's athletic facilities as well as numerous other buildings on campus such as the School of Law Building, School of Education Building and the recent remodel and expansion of the Hughes Science Center," said Hindley. ALSC Architects is currently completing a design of a new Student Housing Complex located at the corner of Ruby & Sharp for the University. Precision H2O's capabilities range from full design and development assistance to standard waterjet-cutting services. Achieved via computer-aided design and machining, this cutting ability translates into complex murals, detailed signage, corporate logos and geometric shapes. Precision H2O utilizes a wide variety of materials including, but not limited to, ceramic tile, natural stone, porcelain, stainless steel, brass, copper, glass and VCT. For more information, please contact Heather O'Keefe at Precision H2O, 6328 E. Utah Avenue, Spokane, WA, 99212 USA, Phone: 1-509-536-9214, Fax: 1-509-5369205, E-mail: ph2o@precisionh2o.com , Andreas Kalt at 5207 Greenpine Drive, Salt Lake City, Utah, 84123 USA, Phone: 1-801-265-8957, Fax: 801265-8967, E-mail: ph2osl@aol.com or contact Chris Calby at 260 Lexington Drive, Buffalo Grove, Illinois, 60089 USA, Phone: 847-541-1630, Fax: 847-541-1864, E-mail: ph2ochicago@sbcglobal.net. , Web Address: www.precisionh2o.com. VIC INTERNATIONAL PROMOTES TAYLOR AND LEONARD IN STONE FABRICATION DIVISION VIC International Corporation has promoted Kathy Taylor and Ed Leonard in the stone fabrication division. Taylor has been named executive assistant to the president with overall responsibility for trade shows. A VIC International employee for six years, Taylor will handle a multiple duties to include trade shows and variety of assignments as required by the president and division heads. Leonard, a VIC's veteran for nearly 12 years, is moving back into inside sales for the stone fabrication division. A 1984 University of Tennessee graduate with a degree in communications, Leonard has served in a variety of positions including shipping, logistics and technical sales. Both Taylor and Leonard most recently were part of the restoration and maintenance division which was sold earlier this year. Vic International is a leading national industrial distributor/supplier of products for the stone, tile and concrete industries representing well-known domestic and international lines of products and accessories with a focus of maintaining and building upon its leadership position in these industries. BROWN PROMOTED AT COMMUNICATORS Communicators International, Inc., a Portland, Maine-based marketing communications firm with offices in New York, has announced the promotion Stephanie J. Brown to creative director. Brown joined the firm last year as an art director after departing from NL Partners, where she had worked the previous six years. "Never have we promoted a creative person so quickly," stated Ron Treister, president of Communicators and a business owner for well over two decades. "This is a testament to Stephanie. She has more than talent; she 'gets it.' She understands that the creative process is one component of the client's overall marketing plan. As a result, she has made an effort to get to know about each client's strategies. The results of these efforts have paid off for our clientele... and, for our company." For more information, contact Tisha Eadie at Communicators International, Inc., 50 Exchange Street, Portland, ME 04102, 207.828.8050, tme@communicatorsintl.com . VISIT US ONLINE! www.stoneindustrynews.com 26 March 2005 Stone Industry News Stone Industry News March 2005 27 ILVA PRESENTS ONYX: SETTING TRENDS IN PORCELAIN TILE With a sleek, sophisticated style, Ilva SA's Onyx series offers the beauty of rectified glazed porcelain, setting the porcelain tile trend for residential and commercial installations. Available in soothing hues of vanilla, cream and honey, Onyx reflects a unique varied shading and transparency, with amazing similarity to natural marble. Because porcelain is so dense and tightly pressed, it will withstand much more pressure, loading and impact than any other product installed on the floor today. Produced using the finest natural ingredients combined with a rigidly controlled manufacturing process that utilizes the most advanced processes and technology, it outperforms ceramic, slate, marble, even granite for years of low-maintenance looks that last. Onyx, a stunning rectified porcelain line, is offered in sizes of 20" X 20," 14" X 14," 4.5" X 7", 7" X 7" and in 3.4" X 3.4" mesh-mounted mosaics on 14" X 14" sheets. The elegance of Onyx tile is also accented with striking accessories that include: 1"X 7" matitas, 2" X 7" torellos, corner pieces, uniquely designed listellos with glass in a 3" X 14" size, 3" X 3" tozettos and quadrant listellos in a 1.2" X 14" size. Sink rail corners, sink rails, quarter round corners, quarter rounds and bullnoses are also available. "The best word to describe the ILVA'S OPERA SERIES OFFERS MELODIC Onyx tile series is 'smooth.' The series is smooth in its appearance, DESIGN OPTIONS in its texture and in its overall effect. Perfect for practically any installation desiring a sophisticated ambiance, Onyx is a fabulous addition to Ilva's collections of tile which are now 100 percent porcelain," said Vanesa McIntosh, Ilva Export Manager. For more information, contact Ceramic Consulting Corporation, 4040 La Playa Blvd, Coconut Grove, FL 33133 Phone: 305.667.7090 Fax: 305.667.8614 e-mail: ceramic1@bellsouth.net or, Pacific Imports Corp., 42704 10th Street West, Lancaster, CA 93534 Phone: 661.942.2545 Fax: 661.723.5515 e-mail: pacific.imports@verizon.net or, Heartland Tile, 7000 H. Commerce Pkwy, Mt. Laurel, NJ 08054 Phone: 856.608.0012 Fax: 856.608.0782 e-mail: gthorp@heartlandtile.com. Glazed with a natural texture and offered in classic colors, Ilva's Opera Series in porcelain tile sings elegance for residential and light commercial applications. Opera's majestic hues include: Aida (white), Carmen (taupe) and Tosca (charcoal). A rectified porcelain tile series with a thickness of .34," Opera is offered in a variety of sizes including: 17.5" X 17.5," 14" X 14," 7" X 7," 3.4" X 7," 3.4" X 3.4" diamond mosaics and mosaics mesh-mounted on 14" X 14" sheets. Opera, with its porcelain tile characteristics, has a high resistance to bending and climate changes, extremely low porosity and possesses a greater chip resistance than ceramic tile due to the porcelain body strength. "Opera is just as its name insinuates, a beautiful, harmonious flooring option for homeowners and light commercial applications," said Vanesa McIntosh, Ilva Export Manager. "Opera is produced using MIA TAKES THE SHOW ON THE ROAD WITH FIVE-CITY the finest natural ingredients comSEMINAR SCHEDULE bined with a rigidly controlled count is available on a one disCleveland, OH -- The Marble and sales professionals. manufacturing process that utilizes count per company basis. Institute of America (MIA) will In addition to Phoenix, the the most advanced technology. As Hieb advises attendees to regis- part of Ilva's high-quality Gres hold road show seminars in five seminars and dates are: Austin, cities in 2005, beginning with the TX, April 7-8; Boston, July 14-15; ter early, because MIA expects Porcellanato series, Opera outperyear’s first in Phoenix, February St. Cloud, MN, August 11-12, and sell-outs at all five venues. forms ceramic, slate, marble and For further information, contact even granite for years of low-main17-18. Seattle, Sept.15-16. MIA at 440-250-9222 or go online tenance sophisticated looks that MIA decided to more than douAttendees can sign up for ble the number of events in the either one or two days, Hieb said. at www.marble-institute and click last." current year after surveying the Price for MIA members for the on MIA education. For more information, contact results of two popular seminars in two-day event is $299 for the first Ceramic Consulting Corporation, Raleigh and Nashville in 2004. person and $199 for each addition4040 La Playa Blvd, Coconut “The feedback was very posi- al seminar attendee. One-day Grove, FL 33133 Phone: tive from both the content and attendees pay $199 for the first 305.667.7090 Fax: 305.667.8614 evalue-received perspectives,” said person and $149 for additional mail: ceramic1@bellsouth.net or, Jim Hieb, director of special proj- attendees. Non-members are also Pacific Imports Corp., 42704 10th ects for MIA, which has more than invited to attend at a premium rate. Street West, Lancaster, CA 93534 Phone: 661.942.2545 Fax: 1200 members throughout the In addition to the seminars, the 661.723.5515 e-mail: world. registration fee includes five MIA pacific.imports@verizon.net or, The five seminars in 2005 will technical modules, a $25 discount Heartland Tile, 7000 H. Commerce focus on helping attendees to grab coupon for additional training Pkwy, Mt. Laurel, NJ 08054 Phone: a greater share of the residential www.stoneindustrynews.com materials, morning coffee, lunch 856.608.0012 Fax: 856.608.0782 emarket for natural stone. It’s and a networking reception. mail: gthorp@heartlandtile.com. designed for fabricators, installers A $50 early registration dis- VISIT US ONLINE! 28 March 2005 Stone Industry News