Graniteer Winter 2017

Volume: 
61
Number: 
4
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Winter 2017 Several billion years ago, deep under the surface of the Earth, a molten sea of liquid rock formed under what is now Elberton, Georgia. Under immense pressure and with another billion years or so of time, this liquid rock cooled and pushed its way to the surface of the earth. A solid vein of granite that was 35 miles long, 6 miles wide and 2 miles deep in thickness had formed, and was now laying in wait. It would lay in wait for several million more years, until the people of Elberton got tired of trying to make a living farming around all this solid rock that was polluting their fields. People have long understood the value of granite as a resource and the folks in Elberton were no different. They realized that the rock that was in the way of farming could be harvested the same as crops could and that it could be sold, and a profit could be made. It started slowly, not like the boom of a gold rush, but with a single quarry supplying blocks of granite to the railroad, as they attempted to rebuild the damage done to its tracks during the Civil War. One quarry became two and then others emerged, as the value of this granite resource grew, and the people began to understand its secrets. They learned how to work with the stone and the best ways to harvest it. Production increased, as quarrying operations became more efficient, small quarry operations grew and additional sites for new quarries were searched out. As more and more granite was shipped out from Elberton, it would only be a matter of time before people would begin to explore other options for this resource. New opportunities began in 1900, when stone craftsmen came to Elberton and opened the first manufacturing plants. They had come, encouraged by the stories they had heard about this large granite deposit in North East Georgia, and they were not disappointed. What they found, was an abundance of beautiful fine-grained blue/grey granite that was perfect for stone working and carving. They took advantage of what the quarries were producing and began manufacturing beautiful granite monuments, memorials and sculptures. In less than 20 years since the start of the first quarries, Elberton manufacturers began shipping quality granite products to waiting customers. Change had come quickly to the granite industry in Elberton but it would not be the last time the industry would see change. Over the years the industry would continue to see change that would impact and affect how the granite was quarried and manufactured. From new and improved machinery and diamond saws to computer-controlled equipment, the industry was ever evolving. As we move forward from here, we are excited by the future and what it will bring. Yes, it will challenge us, but we will continue to innovate, adapt and overcome, meeting the needs of our customers into the next generation. Have You Wondered Where Monuments Come From & How They Are Made? Granite deposits where the stone is extracted from the earth are called quarries. Geologists have identified a mass of granite in the Elberton area that is thirty-five miles long and six miles wide. Each year, over 200,000 granite monuments, markers or mausoleums are made in Elberton, Georgia - “The Granite Capital of the World”. The story of their transformation from rough granite deposits to beautifully finished monuments is an extremely interesting story. Blocks of granite weighing more than 10 tons are delivered to the plants for processing. Massive diamond tipped saw blades, up to 14 feet in diameter, cut the blocks into slabs of various thickness. Smaller diamond tipped saws are used to further dimension the granite slabs to form the memorial’s shape. The skilled hands of the stone cutters use hammers and chisels to cut the individual pieces to the customer’s exact specifications. Sophisticated machinery such as an automated polishing system, is used to assist with efficient productivity in finishing monuments. A skillful blending of modern technology and tried and true old-world craftsmanship come together as men and machines form the granite pieces into artistically beautiful memorials. Elberton granite memorials are well-designed and expertly crafted and they are erected throughout the United States in cemeteries, public parks, town squares, schools and historical sites. Look for the spring edition for more details about the 2018 5-Day Monument Retailers Basic Course where more details and demonstrations will be provided. Tours of quarries and manufacturing plants will also be given allowing a first hand look at the way monuments are created. New Tutorial Videos From Design Mart During recent months Design Mart has released many updates to the Online Monument Designer. There are more than ten short videos that will guide users through each step of using the Online Monument Designer according to Mike Fernandez of Design Mart. “In the past users could watch one 20-minute long video that covered all the features,” Fernandez said. “Now there are shorter videos that address specific tasks.” Videos include: • Signing Up and Managing Your Account • Logging In and Exploring Your Dashboard • Creating Your First Monument • Adding, Deleting, and Editing Components • Saving and Printing Your Work • Exporting and Cutting Your Work • Learn Your Tools and Features • Building a Monument From Scratch • Creating a Monument for Laser Etching • Customizing Your Granite Prices The videos range from approximately one to ten minutes. They may be found at www.designmart.com > Online Catalog & Monument Designer > Monument Designer > Monument Designer Tutorials. “For those who are interested in designing monuments online using PCs, laptops, tablets and mobile devices we recommend the third video,” Fernandez said. “’Creating Your First Monument’ will cover the most topics and help visitors decide if they would like to take advantage of a free 30-day trial.” In addition to the new tutorial videos Design Mart will also connect remotely to your PC and share the mouse to show users how to accomplish specific tasks. “We will help users build a monument and then export it for stencil cutting,” Fernandez said. “Our Online Monument Builder is unique in that it goes a step beyond just creating a color image for approval. It also provides a stencil cutting file so CAD operators who are cutting stencil will not have to create a CAD drawing to match the one in the color picture.” Bicknell Supply Company Continues To Grow The Elberton location has been here since 1930 and though it was then Bicknell Manufacturing, it later became Bicknell Supply. The company has seen many growths and expansions. Throughout the years, four generations of Bicknell men have overseen the company to ensure that it grew without compromising its commitment to product quality and customer satisfaction. Following the examples of history, Elberton’s Bicknell Supply Company location, managed by Mike Beri, has expanded its family and its technology over the last few months. The new site has the same bicknellsupply.com URL, but is a completely new site. It was overhauled and built for greater customer convenience and has several features in place to ensure that it is informative and interactive. Comments can be left on the page to give feedback and insight for future updates or just to let them know how the new page is doing for you! There is a maps section where you can view the property and get directions in case you would like to go there in person. Their phone number is on the header of the page. Just click to call! A wide variety of items are already live on the page and more are always being added, as the page is still a work in progress however it is completely functioning and ready to be viewed. If you would like to speak with a member of their staff from the site without having to make a phone call or bother with an email you can even message them right from the page any time of day! During business hours your messages will be answered promptly. After hours, messages will still get through however you will need to leave an email address that they can send a response to or your number to receive a phone call in the morning when your message is read. The site’s product pages are interactive as well. When you click on most products an information page will open up with descriptions, information, photos, sizes, and more! The home page of the site gives a brief but interesting explanation of the company’s history and the family that owns it. (L-R): Alex Marlow, Mike Beri, Joey Roberts, Kyle Bagwell, Nathan Fleming, Allen Wilson, Andrew Robinson, Ryan Crawford, Scarlet Yeargin, Leslie Turpin, Sheba Carey and Michael Hughes From new employees, to updated websites and technology, the company seems to be flourishing. “As the industry grows, so must we.” stated Mike Beri, Manager. Meet the new employees of Bicknell Supply Company. These young men have already proven to be golden assets to the company. They blend into the family of employees seamlessly. Alex Marlow of Elberton, GA. Alex is 18 years old and a 2017 graduate of Elbert County Comprehensive High School. Alex was an active member of the Blue Devil Band Percussion Section. While attending high school, Alex maintained a job at M&M Tire of Elberton. Alex works in the warehouse at Bicknell and is a part of the delivery team. Andrew Robinson of Hartwell, GA. Andrew is 22 years old and comes to the area from Russell, Ky. Andrew moved to Georgia half way through his senior year in high school. Andrew worked at Walmart TLE prior to coming to Bicknell Supply Company. He enjoys working with his hands and learning the ins and outs of the technology world. Andrew spends his days at Bicknell updating their website, product database and working on and updating their IT capabilities. Kyle Bagwell of Elberton, GA. Kyle is 27 years old. Prior to working at Bicknell, Kyle was the Lead Installer for T&J Granite Counter Tops. At Bicknell, Kyle handles inside and outside sales. Kyle’s personality and smooth demeanor has allowed him to blend in perfectly with Bicknell customers. He has proven to be an asset for the company. Nathan Fleming of Lexington, GA. Nathan is 28 years old and comes to Bicknell Supply Company from Star Granite & Bronze where he worked in the drafting department for 6 years. Nathan is originally from Hartwell, GA. He studied Multimedia Design at the University of Phoenix. At Bicknell, Nathan works in the shipping department ensuring that each and every customer gets their order on time and correct. “Bicknell Supply Company wants to welcome each of these fine young men and encourage them to always give their best in all they do. We know you will go far in life and we look forward to watching you grow with us.” - Mike Beri Southern Granite Company Announces The Retirement of James Mitchell Fortson James Mitchell Fortson worked for Southern Granite Company for 23 years and has decided it is time to embark on retirement. James was hired by the late David Edwards to be the joint saw operator and a floater that helped in other areas of the plant. James has been a loyal employee who was dedicated to his job. His hard work, dedication and commitment have been worthy of admiration. “We appreciate all of the years of services given to Southern Granite Company by James. We wish him well in his retirement.” stated Melissa Dias of Southern Granite Company. Shown in the photograph to the right is Jason Edwards, James Fortson and Melissa Dias. Retailers, Are you proud of a monument and want to see it spotlighted in the graniteer? Have you done a monument that just stands out around all the others? We would like to know about it so that we can spotlight it in one of our Graniteers. Just reach out to your EGA member and let them know that you would like it to be featured. They are always glad to send over submissions. NEW MEMBER SPOTLIGHT! Elberton Granite Association Would Like To Welcome Travco Metal Works As Our Newest Member We want to welcome and introduce the newest member to the Elberton Granite Association. Travis and Mendy Christian are the owners of Travco Metal Works in Elberton, Georgia. Mendy also works for King’s Monument Company, Inc. in Elberton. She is the niece of Trudy and the late Jerry King and has worked at King’s for the past 21 years as their secretary. Travis has worked full time in Elberton for 22 years in industrial maintenance and as a fabricator. He attended North Georgia Tech to gain his degree in CNC Machine Tool Programming and Athens Tech to attain a certification in Industrial Maintenance Systems. Travis and Mendy began Travco in 2007 as a weekend hobby. Travco began growing and quickly became his full time focus. With Travco being a family owned and operated business, it can offer many perks such as personal guarantee of craftsmanship and quick response on service calls. Single Pass Diamond Saw Travis recently developed and built a 4 ft. Single Pass Diamond Saw. The saw is in use at Willis Dimension Stone, Inc. This magnificent single pass saw can cut 16” in depth producing up to 2.5 square feet per minute with thickness down to 1/4” in Elberton granite. This capability will prove to be extremely beneficial when jointing & dimensioning slabs of granite. Travco Metal Works Owners Travis & Mendy Christian 3392 Elberton, GA 30635 Phone: 706-283-8832 travis@travcometalworks.com travcometalworks.com Travco offers a wide range of services including, but not limited to: Diamond Bridge, Post & Gantry Saws • CNC Machine Shop • Automatic Slab, Top & Patch Polishers • Specialty Machining • Bridge Cranes • Prototyping • Hydraulic Slant Breakers • Custom Fabrication • Auto Load & Unload Conveyors • Commercial & Residential Roll-Up Doors • Industrial & Electrical Maintenance Go to this link to watch the saw in action! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ql8a-qLpWZE&feature=em-share_video_user 2017 School of Hard Rocks October of 2017 brought many activities to the Elberton Granite Association. The School of Hard Rocks being one. Craftsmen from all over the states joined together to expand their artistic granite carving skills. The class was led by Bobby Mattos from Bras and Mattos Monument Company, Charlie Hunt of Hunt Memorials, Inc., and Scott Luken from Luken Memorials. Students were given training sessions on techniques for creating different textures and patterns. They were taught skills on stone cutting with the old hands-on “learning by doing” method. Many thanks go to Keystone Memorials, Inc. for allowing the organizers of School of Hard Rocks to use their location, product and materials. Winner’s Corner At the end of the week, the students gathered their creations for a final competition. Winner of the School of Hard Rocks 2017 Mallet Trophy was Mark (The Hammer) Robinson! He took 1st place with his tiki statue carved from a piece of Keystone Blue granite. Mark (The Hammer) Robinson Winner of the School of Hard Rocks Mallet Trophy Adrian Hanft, Jed Hendrickson, Heather Sturgill, Conner Luken, Matt Matheney, & Ron Pennington Winners of Group Team Project Tony Watson - Longest Chip & Jacob Ellis - Chip Accuracy Winners of Chip Olympics Another Successful Year for EGA’s Monument Retailers Basic Course This year the Elberton Granite Association held their annual Monument Retailers Basic Course October 9th - 13th. The week was kicked off with some heavy rains that altered and rearranged our schedule but the adjustments proved to be successful. There were 16 different retailers represented in the class of 22 students. Some traveled several hundred miles to participate in this year’s class. With topics such as pricing, vocabulary, techniques and design along with products and procedures, this was a class well worth attending. The class was led by our own, Matthew Pruitt, Executive Assistant to the Vice President. Our Keynote Speakers focusing on Art, Design & Marketing were Bobby Mattos, AICA a 5th generation memorialist from Bras and Mattos Monument, Charlie Hunt, FAICA of Hunt Memorials, Inc. and Scott Luken, PITA, of Luken Memorials. We want to send our greatest thanks and appreciation to these gentlemen for sharing their vast array of knowledge and ideas with us. Many of our local members stepped up to help with our class with on-site tours and lessons along with classroom instruction. You will see each of these in the photo descriptions to the right. We give many thanks to each of these. We are who we are because of the great members that we have. Let us not forget that where one or two are gathered... there must be food. Breakfast and lunch were provided for our students by several members. Bicknell Supply Company sponsored our class with lunch at McIntosh Coffee Shop; Glass Art Imaging sponsored lunch at Papa’s Pizza; Miles Supply of Elberton supplied breakfast at their location; Porcelains Unlimited sponsored lunch at Richard’s and Granite Sales & Supply provided breakfast at their location. Thank you to all for your willingness to contribute and help. Keynote Speakers (L-R); Bobby Mattos, AICA of Bras and Mattos Monument Company, Scott Luken, PITA of Luken Memorials and Charlie Hunt, FAICA of Hunt Memorials, Inc. These gentlemen spent a day with the class discussing the different ways to produce creative layouts, design, methods of accomplishing different textures and creative stone carving techniques. They taught how this knowledge allows your business to stand out among the crowd and how to market that ability. Matthew Pruitt, Elberton Granite Association discussed the benefits of being active with associations along with the EGA Certified Memorial Program. DJ Nestor, Star Granite Interiors walked the class through a tour of the granite interior plant and showcased many different granite options. Anne Jenson, Jenson Etching showed us the different techniques used for etching along with the differences between laser and hand etches. Mike Fernandez, Design Mart, LLC taught a class at Elmhurst Cemetery on symbolism of different carving on memorials. Stewart Cone, Eagle Granite Company, Inc. taught the class how to properly communicate with suppliers along with commonly used terms and measurements. Mart Clamp taught different ways to clean monuments along with chemicals to use and avoid. He touched on what chemicals are approved by OSHA. Louis Tyler, Century-Harmony Company discussed the cost of monuments being sold and how to price them accurately. Ryan Albertson, Henry & Henry welcomed the class to visit their truck loading docks and discussed the ins and outs of the shipping process from the Elberton terminal. Elliott Dye, Bicknell Supply Company discussed new products available in all phases of the monument production. Emphasis was put on epoxies and sealants. Ronnie Brown, Miles Supply displayed products used in all phases of the monument business, with emphasis on cleaning products. Tanner Lewis, Porcelains Unlimited discussed the concept of his new Eternal Time Keeper and the use it has in the granite industry today. Jesse Hernandez, of Southern Mausoleums explained the production process for mausoleums and columbariums, while touring the plant. Greg Ruff, River Edge Granite taught a lesson on foundation preparation, and setting techniques along with measuring monuments correctly and rubbings. Quinn Floyd, AQ Stone Design discussed with the class the different ways to design a stone and what measurements are required George Arnold, Glass Art Imaging explained the exciting new technique of adding images and portraits to stone in bright and vibrant color that lasts. James Walters, Eagle Granite led the class in a tour through Eagle’s manufacturing plant. We learned how granite goes through the various steps of monument production. Stacey Drake, Granite Sales and Supply discussed the different types of stone cleaners and sealers with a hands on demonstration. Jarrett Berryman & Cliff Dye, Star Granite & Bronze took the class on a tour of Star’s bronze foundry and showed us the different steps required for its production. The Elberton Granite Association Christmas Party There is nothing better than family and friends getting together to celebrate the holidays. The Elberton Granite Association hosted our Annual Christmas Party at the Elberton Country Club this year. The change in venue proved to be a huge success. The atmosphere was joyful and fun as we all came together to enjoy each other’s company. The food was catered by Renee Hunt of Elberton and made to perfection. We pray that 2018 brings all of our members, family and friends a great blessing of health and prosperity. EGA Members Tour New Anchor Stencil Plant Members of the Elberton Granite Association toured the new Intertape Polymer Group (IPG) plant in Blythewood, South Carolina, on November 29. Clay Creech, a familiar face to many Anchor stencil users put together the tour and introduced EGA members to team leaders at IPG. After an introduction by Clay, the group was introduced to team leaders from product engineering, safety, and production and quality control. Before lunch, team leaders asked for suggestions and answered users’ questions about their recent experiences with the newly produced Anchor stencil. After lunch the EGA group toured the plant itself and saw first-hand the many improvements that came with the move to the Blythewood plant. For many years stencil, tape and other products were manufactured in a plant closer to downtown Columbia, South Carolina. After a major flood the stencil operation joined the other products a few miles away on higher ground in Blythewood, a new facility where various tape production was already taking place. The IPG team put together a presentation to show attendees the degree of devastation created by the flood’s waters. It has taken time to build new equipment to replace the machines lost in the flood. The new machinery is digitally monitored and controlled for improved consistency and greater precision in measuring and maintaining precise stencil thickness. New production techniques will also result in longer blade life on stencil cutters. Improvements have also been made in the hole-punching procedure, which will result in better tracking on Gerber cutters as well as Allen Datagraph and other cutters using the IBM punch pattern. Several cutter models are located at nearby work stations so stencil can be checked regularly to ensure precise tracking. - written by Mike Fernandez of Design Mart EGA Members are pictured here along with team leaders from IPG. EGA Members are pictured from left to right: Allen Herndon and Jim Welch of Welch’s Granite Company, Inc., Stacy Drake of Granite Sales & Supply Corporation, Gara Andrews and Marilyn Brown of Pyramid Materials, Inc., Clay Creech of Anchor/IPG, Mike Dodson of Stone Graphics, Inc., Tom Oglesby of Keystone Memorials, Inc., Ronnie Brown and Brady Turner of Miles Supply of Elberton, Inc., Mike Beri of Bicknell Supply Company, Byron Bowman of Granite Sales & Supply Corporation, Mike Fernandez, Design Mart and Matthew Pruitt of the Elberton Granite Association along with several members of the Anchor/IPG production team. (Not pictured is Chris Kubas of the Elberton Granite Association.) True Craftsmanship Is Not A Thing Of The Past! Elberton, Georgia is not shy on its plethora of quality stone craftsmen. From quarrying to polishing, to setting the monument, every step is filled with men and women who perform their role with pride and care. The end result is just what you see in this display; down-home quality and detail. From smooth shiny polish to hand-tooled carving and everything in between, the characteristics of each stone tells its own amazing story. The possibilities are endless in what our craftsmen can create from a single block of granite. Downtown Display River Edge Granite Company, Peerless Blue Hillcrest Granite Company, Elberton Blue Granite King’s Monument company, Blue Sable Granite L&M Granite Company L & M, Dakota Mahogany Granite Pyramid Materials, Chapel rose granite Eagle Granite company, Silver cloud granite Keystone Memorials, Dakota Mahogany Granite Veterans Memorial Donated By Elberton Granite Association Members Relocated to Mercedes-Benz Stadium On November 11, 1992 the Georgia Veterans Memorial was dedicated on the plaza in front of the Georgia Dome in Atlanta, Georgia. For 22 years, the monument stood proud as a reminder to all who walked by, of the sacrifices made to give the freedom they enjoy. The beautiful, towering 37 ft. spire was a gift from over 20 voluntary EGA members to show appreciation and gratitude to all of the brave men and women of Georgia who have served in our country’s armed forces. The monument was termed by Daniel Graveline, then Executive Director of the Georgia World Congress Center and the Georgia Dome, as “a powerful symbol of our appreciation of the bravery and sacrifices of Georgia’s veterans”. March 14, 2014 EGA member Jim Boyd of Boyd Granite Company, took on the task of consulting and assisting with the relocation of the monument to the site that the new Mercedes-Benz stadium would be constructed. This was a special honor in as much as Mr. Boyd and his team at Boyd Granite Company were the ones to originally erect the monument in front of the Georgia Dome back in 1992. The monument now stands between the completed Mercedes-Benz Stadium and the Georgia World Congress Center. EGA’s Georgia Veterans Memorial has stood a total of 25 years and counting. Today, it is just as much a splendid example of the world-renowned craftsmanship found in the Elberton Granite Industry as it was the day it was originally erected in 1992. Standing at the base of this monument and looking up, there is a feeling of awe. Not only for the reverence of knowing what this monument stands for, but to also consider the amount of money, effort, time, love, respect, dedication and teamwork it took to make this monument a reality. The members of the Elberton Granite Association did an outstanding job working together for the veterans of Georgia. The same as the veterans of Georgia do an outstanding job of protecting our freedom and liberties. It is our hope that this monument brings patriotic pride to every passerby. Glass Art Creates Centerpiece of Air Park for McGhee Tyson Air National Guard Base The 134th Air Refueling Wing at the McGhee Tyson ANGB honored its Airmen -past and present - and opened a new Historic Air Park honoring the units’ 60-year legacy of faithful service to the Nation and State of Tennessee. McGhee Tyson ANGB is the home of the 134th Air Refueling Wing (134 ARW) of the Tennessee Air National Guard, an Air Mobility Command (AMC) gained unit which functions as the host wing for the installation. Other tenants of the base include the 119th Command and Control Squadron, the I.G. Brown Air National Guard Training and Education Center, Air National Guard Band of the South, and the 1st Squadron, 230th Armored Cavalry Regiment’s Army Aviation Support Facility of the Tennessee Army National Guard, operating several OH-58 Kiowa Warrior helicopters. On October 14th, 2017, the new Historic Air Park was dedicated with military VIP’s from all over the nation in attendance. The 134th emblem at the center of the park is a 12 foot All American Elberton Peerless Blue granite circle with GLASS Art utilized for the colorful emblem. GLASS Art was chosen for its durability, colorfastness, vivid colors and the ability to be used on Georgia gray granite. The engineering, fabrication, imaging, materials, granite and labor were 100% American. The components on the emblem represent its legacy. The image of Pegasus represents the flying transport functions, the castle reflects the origins in Germany and the white stars in the blue field comes from the flag of Tennessee. All the aircraft and tails point towards the emblem. The park has become the cultural centerpiece of the base. Congratulations to the McGhee Tyson ANGB for a beautiful and greatly appreciated project commemorating their 60 year history keeping us safe! Credits Color and artwork rendering: GLASS Art Imaging, Elberton GA Granite: River Edge Granite, Elberton GA Granite dealer: Maryville Monuments, Maryville TN Installers: J&S Construction, Knoxville TN Architect: C2rl Engineering, Inc. Alcoa, TN Peerless Blue Granite River Edge Granite Company was blessed with the task of creating a memorial worthy of baby Everett Sears. This was a task they did not take lightly. Baby Everett was born October 4th, 2016 with a condition called Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome. Everett’s obituary reads “Our Heaven sent, heart warrior, Everett Michael Sears received his glorified heart on Saturday, December 31, 2016.” Greg Ruff, owner of River Edge Company commented “This is not an easy time for anybody to go through. We just want to do all we can do to make it less difficult.” Everett’s monument is made from flash black granite and is a baby size heart standing 1’ 8” tall. A sandblasted line completes the shape of the heart on the face of the monument. Beautiful etchings of Everett’s portrait along with his hands and feet are etched on the monument with the statement “There is no footprint too small that it cannot leave an impact on this world.” The monument is all polished along with the square vase. The ledger is all polished with sandblasted lettering. Flash black coping was put around a 15x11 size lot with the family name engraved in the step. Everett’s memorial rests at Mt. Tabor Baptist Church in Anderson, SC. Porcelains Unlimited and Keystone Memorials, Inc. worked together to complete this Keystone Blue monument for Watson Signs & Monuments in College Station, Texas. This monument offers so many characteristics with the different levels of sandblasting and shape carving. The featured part of this stone is, of course, the recessed NASA porcelain insert. The bright and vibrant color of the logo stands out and will give a lasting impression. Keystone Memorials, Inc. fabricated this intriguing monument for Monumental Finishers in St. Louis, MO. Monumental Finishers assisted Leonard DeMoor in designing this memorial. Mr. DeMoor is a retired monument dealer. The monument was placed in Holy Cross Cemetery in Ellisville, Missouri. The monument features a 12” sculpture of Mary in a carved niche just above the sandblasted family name. The sculpted flame was supplied to them. Sandblasted butterflies dance along the top of the stone sweeping along the curved shape. The base of the monument shows a steeled top and a 2” steeled margin with BRP sides. Keystone Memorials, Inc. created this monument for Barre Monument Company. It sits at St. Joseph’s Church Cemetery in Baltimore, Maryland. The contoured top of the die features a relief carved Holy Family. A photo engraving mask was ussed to sandblast the intricate images into the polish of Jesus, sheep, angels and stars. The decorative lines and flower vines were created using shape carved sandblasting. The back of the stone is flat and polished. The m monument sits on a 5’ base with a polished top and rock pitch along all 4 sides. River Edge Granite Company created this breathtaking monument for a local man who served as a Paramedic among many other things. Bryan Segars was a Level II Training Officer for 22 years and also served as a Medical Technician Instructor. But above all of that he was a husband, father, son and friend. He served his family and community and left a legacy that will always be remembered. The front and back of the monument are polished with sandblasted name and dates on the front. The wings atop this monument were carved by Elberton’s sculptor and artisan, Steve Mooney. The details of each feather were carved flawlessly. The Star of Life is cradled inside a space cut out of the monument. The base has a 2” polished margin with rock pitched sides leaving a smooth polished chamfer with 45º ends for the family name. Mausoleums have grown in popularity in last several years. It is a distinguished way to create a lasting legacy for families. Mausoleums vary from simple elegance to elaborate embellishments depending of the individual likes and dislikes. Southern Mausoleum, Inc. created this eye-catching mausoleum for Hope Haven Marble & Granite in Gonzales, Louisiana. It is adorned with a beautifully cut rounded roof. All exterior edges are polished to a shine while the header along the front and back of the roof are sandblasted with a custom design and the family name. The front porch is stabilized with two polished round columns while two half columns are placed along the door jams for decorative design. Two half columns adorn the back of the mausoleum, the same as the front. Keystone Memorials, Inc. teamed up with the City of Greenwood, South Carolina to create and erect this memorial to the late Dr. Benjamin E. Mays. Dr. Mays was an internationally recognized minister, educator, writer and humanitarian. The monument stands at the center of the Benjamin E. Mays Historical Preservation Site on North Hospital Road, just feet from Mays’ childhood home - a humble one-story house. The bronze monument stands tall sitting atop a Missouri red pedestal with rock pitch along all 4 sides. Flush panels were created to hold the bronze plaques that adorn the sides. Along the top of the pedestal is a 1” tall check giving a smooth transition to the statue. The pedestal sits atop an all rocked base with a 2” tall rocked scotia around the top. Dixie Granite Company created this sign for John Milledge Academy. The sign is mounted proudly on the high school football field in front of the stands. Made out of flash black granite, it contrasts perfectly with the brick wall holding it. This sign is 6 ft. 8” wide and 3 ft. 4.5” tall. This beautiful monument was created by Dixie Granite Company. It sits alongside the road in Winterville, Georgia identifying a family farm. The monument was created as a replica of an old bedstone millstone. Using sandblast techniques the quarter dress pattern and lettering were placed upon the front and back of the millstone. The round edges are steeled. The hole cut from the center of the stone is 6” in diameter and surrounded by the spanish cross that would have been used to hold the millrind. The millstone is attached to two pedestals using pins and sits upon a sub base featuring a steeled top and rock pitched sides. The base of this monument is steeled along the top and rock pitched along the edges also. This monument honors history and symbolizes hard work of generations past. This brilliant tribute to our veterans was created by Keystone Memorials, Inc. for Homier’s Monumental in Defiance, Ohio. It can be found in Riverside Cemetery in Defiance, Ohio in the center of the veterans section. The flagpole is created with seven individual pieces of American Black granite. The five side pieces each have a military branch emblem sandblasted onto it. The sides are mitered at the corners to fit together forming a pentagon shape. The top and base of the monument each have a core hole in the center to secure the flag standing proud from it. The benches placed around the flagpole are also made from American Black granite. Each bench is placed in a circular fashion around the flagpole, making it the central focal point. Such attention to detail was placed in creating this veterans memorial. If you look closely, this memorial was cut in a fashion that when complete, the natural veining of the granite all flows seamlessly and horizontal. The benches each have horizontal veining leaving a look of pride and honor for all to admire. Baston Monuments, Inc. worked with the City of Lavonia, Georgia and a former resident, Russell Gillespie, to create a remarkable monument for the local veterans of the greater Lavonia area. This monument stands tall in the heart of Lavonia just in front of the city gazebo and behind a walkway of bricks sandblasted with names of residents that have served our country. The monument was unveiled and dedicated on Saturday, November 11th, 2017. The monument is 4 ft. tall total with a 1 ft. drop making the front of the monument 3 ft. Sandblasted on the front of the monument is a prayer that reminds everyone the cost of the freedom enjoyed by Americans. Vietnam Era Veteran Gerald Agnew standing above his honorary brick sandblasted with his name as he watches the uncovering of the monument. City of Lavonia Police Department Honor Guard opened the ceremonies with Presentation of the Colors as our national anthem was sung. Mayor Owens and former resident, Russell Gillespie unveiling the Greater Lavonia Area Veterans Memorial. Carolinas / Kentucky / Tennessee Monument Builders Joint Convention September 28th - October 1st 2017 Chattanooga, TN (L-R): Anthony & Vicki Rowland, Bethel Springs, TN; Autumn & Daniel Raper, Bethel Springs, TN; Mitch & Rhonda Williams, L&M Granite Company, Inc.; Eddy Higginbotham, Memorial Art; Connie Mills, L&M Granite Company, Inc.; Greg & Kelli Klaiber, Ashland, KY; Tony Mills, L&M Granite Company, Inc. (L-R): Richard Schultz, Madison, TN; Emily Smith, Eagle Granite Company, Inc.; Lauren Cole, Whiteville, NC; Lori Ashwell, South Boston, VA; Bob Barton, Marble, NC; Mike Cole, Whiteville, NC and Tina & Miranda Cannon, Eagle Granite Company, Inc. (L-R): Greg Klaiber, Ashland, KY; Stacey Drake, Granite Sales & Supply Corp.; Kelli Klaiber, Ashland, Ky (L-R): Joseph Edmond Timms, III, Conway, SC & Jason Jankowski, Palfleet Truck Equipment (L-R): Gara Andrews & Mike Rutherford, Pyramid Materials, Inc. (L-R): Richard & Pam Schultz, Madison, TN; Nancy & Larry Bessinger, Miles Supply of Elberton; Jennifer Hardin, Memphis, TN and Missy & Paul West, Memphis, TN (L-R): Quinn Floyd & Kathie Bell, A.Q. Stone Design Company; Brad Myers & Lori Ashwell, South Boston, VA; Matt & Lisa Peterson, Burlington, NC and Pam & Richard Schultz, Madison, TN (L-R): Judy & Don Bentley, Mt. Eden, KY; Bill, Joan, Billy & Charlotte Fox, Julie Stout, Mary Ann Campbell, Henry & Henry, Inc. and Vicky & Mark McKinley, Campbellsville, KY (L-R): Luke Walker holding Vada Walker & Kaitlin Walker holding Tess Walker, Walker Granite Company, Inc.; Jessica Mobley holding Aria Mobley & Hiram Mobley, all with Walker Granite Company, Inc.; Spencer Johnson, Earnest & Margaret Hillman and Sharon Johnson, Memphis, TN; Steve & Donna Anderson, Somerville, TN; Marty & Rose Walker, Walker Granite Company, Inc.; Vickie & Anthony Rowland, Bethel Springs,TN and Misty & Paul West, Memphis, TN (L-R): Kenneth & Brandi Brown, Childs & Childs Granite Company, Inc.; and Beth & Steve Caroll, King, NC (L-R): Bruce Bicknell, Bicknell Supply Company; Lori Ashwell, South Boston, VA; Steve & Beth Caroll, King, NC; Mike Cole, Whiteville, NC; Angie & Jonathan Searcy, Carrollton, KY; Heyward & Nelson Blackmon, Darlington, SC; Lauren Cole, Whiteville, NC; Kim Joslin, Carrollton, KY; Bobby & Tammy Barnett, Union City, TN and Mike Beri, Bicknell Supply Company (L-R): Jonathan & Angie Searcy, Carrollton, KY; Mitch & Rhonda Williams & Connie Mills, L&M Granite Company, LLC; Bobby & Tammy Barnett, Union City, TN and Kim Joslin,Carrollton, KY (L-R): Tanner Lewis, Porcelains Unlimited, LLC; Robert & Barbara Worely, Majestic Granite Company, LLC, Katie Estep, Elberton, GA and Diane & Joe Davison, Dyersburg, TN (L-R): Dwight Ledford & Ben Martin, Asheville, NC; Bo & Pat Rutherford, Amanda Rutherford, Baby Wakely Rutherford, Mike Rutherford, Knox Poole & Ethan Spagnoli, Pyramid Materials, Inc. (L-R): Andy Futrell, Louisville, KY; Melissa Dias, Southern Granite Company, LLC; Greg & Kelli Klaiber, Ashland, KY; Don & Judy Bentley, Mt. Eden, KY; Vicky & Mark McKinley, Campbellsville, KY; Jason Edwards, Southern Granite Company, LLC and Brian Hayes, Louisville, KY In Memoriam Jerry Micheal King May 26, 1945 - December 27, 2017 On Wednesday, December 27, 2017, Mr. Jerry King finished his course on earth and went to be with the Lord. Jerry was 72 years old. He was a longtime resident of Elberton along with his wife Trudy Johnson King. Jerry was born in Elberton on May 26, 1945 to Van Wesley King and Norine Martha Turner King. He was a 1963 graduate of Madison County High School. Jerry proudly served his country in Vietnam through the U.S. Army. He was stationed in Fort Gordon, Georgia during the time-frame that he was not serving in Vietnam. Jerry King was an exceptional man who loved his wife above all earthly things. He spent his life walking beside her in their personal life and professional. Jerry was a self-made man who always wanted to do things the right way and encouraged his family and employees to do the same. He loved working together with his family and considered his employees an extension of his own family. Jerry and Trudy shared the type of love story that is often written about in books. Their happiness was found in being together. They shared their days at home, on the ball field with their son or grandchildren and in the office. Trudy refers to Jerry as her “gentle giant”. They were blessed to spend 51.5 years in marriage, though their relationship together began 54 years ago. They began their career together farming in rural Elbert County. In 1984 they embarked on the endeavor of founding King’s Monument Company. Through their dedication and hard work, the company grew. Jerry took pride in providing quality work to the many customers he was privileged to serve. If Jerry made a promise, he followed through to make sure it happened. Jerry’s dedication and commitment flowed over into the granite industry and that commitment was shown through his work with the Elberton Granite Association, an organization he worked tirelessly for as a 3 term Trustee and eventually as a 2 term President. Jerry dedicated himself and his time to help the Elberton granite industry grow and excel. Some men are born to make and leave a large mark on this world. Jerry King was such a man. For those of this world that knew him, they were blessed and those that did not will never begin to grasp how one man can raise such a bar of love and kindness. It is said that it is not wealth or treasures that a man leaves behind. A man’s integrity is the legacy that is left when he passes from this world into the next. The legacy left behind by Jerry King is a large one. One of not only integrity, but honor. Jerry is missed dearly every day. He left his mark on many lives and his memory will carry on through that. Thomas Mark Carrington January 26, 1964 - October 23, 2017 Mr. Thomas Mark Carrington, 53, of Elberton passed away Monday, October 23, 2017. Mr. Carrington was husband of Laura Carrington for 23 years and father of Jamie LeeAnn Carrington. Mark was employed in the granite industry for a large portion of his life and is a former member of the Elberton Granite Association. He is survived by his wife of 23 years: Laura Johnson Carrington; daughter: Jamie LeeAnn Carrington; father and step-mother: Bud and Frances Carrington; mother and step-father: Jackie and John McCurley; siblings: Kelly C. Jordan, Josh and Katie Carrington; grandparents: Horace and Tiny Davis; and a number of nieces and nephews. Michael Herndon October 28, 1949 - September 1, 2017 Mr. Mike Herndon, 67, of Bowman, Georgia passed away Friday, September 1, 2017. Mike was born in Elberton, Georgia to Fred and Eugenia Mauldin Herndon. He was the husband of Lynn Herndon, with whom he had celebrated 46 years of marriage. Mike was a veteran of the United States Army, having served his country during the Vietnam War. He worked throughout his life as a contractor. Mike was a former member of the Elberton Granite Association. He will be missed. In addition to his wife, Lynn, Mike is survived by a son, Nathan Herndon of Comer; and two daughters, Anna Terrell and Brooke Campos, all of Elberton. Randy Ward Peppers March 15, 1956 - November 05, 2017 Mr. Randall “Randy” Ward Peppers, 61, of Jones Ferry Rd., Elberton, GA passed away Sunday, November 5, 2017 at his home. Mr. Peppers was born March 15, 1956 in Southern Pines, NC to Grady Peppers and Jewell Martin Peppers. Survivors include his wife of 14 years: Kelly M. Dotson Peppers; sons and daughters-in-law: Josh and McKenzie Seymour; Matt and Kate Neal Seymour; Andrew Gaines; daughters and son-in-law: Connie Peppers and her fiancé Bobby Taylor; Caitlin Peppers; Abby and Adam Gibson; sisters and brothers-in-law: Judy and Myron Burdge, Gaye Paugh, Mona Peppers and Silvio Balistreri; aunts: Joyce Savage; Frances Martin and grandchildren: Jameson Gibson and Charla J. Segars.
Date: 
Winter 2017
Year: 
2 017
Season: 
Winter