FALL 1994 HONORING GEORGIAN WHO BECAME PRESIDENT. "ROM'S - Hard Drive - Digitize" What is this new language that is sweeping the Monument Industry? It seems like just yesterday that the trade was trying to understand terms like "headed" "ogee" and "rabbit". Welcome to the Computer Age! The personal computer has invaded the Monument Industry and it will never be the same. Wait a minute, after all, this is "The Monument Industry" rich with tradition, supported by generations of craftsmen, skilled in memorial design and art. Aren't we the Industry that originated the expression "we've always done it this way!"? Monument making is a craft, you say. Carving and lettering can't be spit out of a machine by typing letters on a keyboard. This "art" must be carefully laid out by hand, based on a precisely measured center line. Not long ago the only exhibitors at state or regional conventions were granite wholesalers and equipment suppliers, Not any more! At any state meeting held today, there will be several computer firms pitching their "new and improved" computer system that will bring your carving and lettering process into the 20th century. At one recent meeting, attendees were asked to raise their hands if they used a computer assisted design system (CAD); a sea of hands went up. The presenter was so overwhelmed he asked, "well let's see the hands of those that don't" - a few embarrassed but honest folks raised their hands to the shaming ooh's and ah's of those in the room. The monument retailers were the first to ride the wave of this new computer technology. They embraced the "PC Revolution" with open arms, seeing it as an opportunity to be more independent in their design and carving and lettering capabilities. It suddenly became a lot easier to train a computer operator to digitize and call-up fonts than to find and train an employee in the art of memorial drafting. Overnight, the PC (personal computer) has redefined monument drafting and the Monument Industry has been catapulted into the 21st century by computer technology. For better or for worse? Change is always difficult to accept, but it's part of our world. Today's memorial customers are different than they were 20 years ago or even ten years ago. The baby boomers, who make or at least influence most major purchase decisions made in the U.S. today, are computer literate, and they expect others to be equally in tune with modern technology. Instant service is expected by everyone just as in ATM banking, drive-up fast food, one-hour eyeglass service and digital code gasoline purchases. Because the Monument Industry has brought the PC into the "family", the memorial counselor must now learn to master this computer design technology just as the draftsman mastered the scale rule and proportional spacing. Memo­rialists must continue to show artistic creations and meaningful memorialization regardless of the medium. It will be very easy for our Industry to slip back into the "cookie cutter" pattern of the 1970's with the computer, because it's so easy to "spit out" what is already there. Technology is a wonderful thing, providing efficiency and versatility, but it can also breed complacency and stagnation. Let's hope that the Monument Industry will strive to stretch the capacity of today's technology through human creativity so that the heritage of this Industry, which was founded in the selling of memories, will never be lost in a 40 meg hard drive. FOR 1994-1995 YEAR New Officers Selected to Lead E.G.A. ELBERTON GRANITE ASSOCIATION BOARD OF TRUSTEES -1994-95 Seated, left to right, Bill Simmons of SWEET CITY QUARRIES, INC.; Jim Welch of WELCH'S GRANITE COMPANY, INC.; Chester Almond of PURITAN GRANITE COMPANY, INC.; Robert Mize of MIZE GRANITE SALES, INC.; David Giannoni of CENTRAL GRANITE COMPANY, INC.; standing, Tom Oglesby of KEYSTONE MEMORIALS, INC.; Gordon McIntosh of COLONIAL GRANITE COMPANY; Jim Boyd of ROBIN BLUE QUARRIES; Marty Walker of WALKER GRANITE COMPANY, INC.; and E.G.A. Executive Vice President Tom Robinson. The Elberton Granite Association Board of Trustees opted for tried and proven lead­ership when they elected new officers to lead the nation's largest organization of wholesale granite quarriers and monument manufacturers on July 20. The Board selected Robert W. Mize, Ill of MIZE GRANITE SALES, INC., for a second successive term as President. Gordon McIntosh of COLONIAL GRANITE COMPANY was chosen for a successive term as Vice Presi­dent. Jim Welch of WELCH'S GRANITE COMPANY, INC. was named Treasurer. Mr. Mize served with distinction as E.G.A. President during the 1993-94 year a period of challenge and also progress in which the 154-member organization sought to meet the demands of its largest membership ever and also to better serve the customers of E.G.A. members in an ever-changing marketplace. A dynamic young leader, Mr. Mize has been active in E.G.A. affairs for a number of years. He served as a member of one of E.G.A.'s most important groups, the Advertising Committee, which is responsible for many of E.G.A.'s most significant programs. Mr. Mize is the son of the late Robert W. "Butch" Mize, Jr., the founder of Mize Granite Sales. Mr. Mize serves as President of the monument manufacturing concern and is Secretary-Treasurer of MIZE GRAN­ITE QUARRIES, INC. Mr. Mize also serves as a Director of the Monument Manufacturers and Wholesalers Division of MBNA. New Trustees In another major development affecting the E.G.A. leadership, the members, at their Annual Meeting on June 22, elected three Trustees for new three-year terms. The new Trustees are David Giannoni of CENTRAL GRANITE COMPANY, INC.; Bill Simmons of SWEET CITY QUARRIES, INC.; and Gordon McIntosh of COLONIAL GRANIT E COMPANY, who was concluding a prior three-year stint on the Board. The trio joins carry-over Trustees Jim Boyd of ROBIN BLUE QUARRIES; Tom Oglesby of KEYSTONE MEMORIALS, INC.; Marty Walker of WALKER GRANITE COM­PANY, INC.; Chester Almond of PURITAN GRANITE COMPANY, INC.; and Mr. Welch and Mr. Mize. Executive Committee The new Board elected David Giannoni, and Tom Oglesby to serve on the Executive Committee with President Mize. It also named Vince Fernandez of LANDMARK GRANITE COMPANY, INC., and William C. "Hoppy" Boyd of BOYD GRANITE COMPANY, INC., as members of the E.G.A. Standards Committee and elected Jim Boyd to serve as a Trustee of E.G.A.'s self-insured Workers' Compensation Fund. Thomas A. "Tom" Robinson, CM, was re­elected to the office of Executive Vice President of the Elberton Granite Association, Inc., and charged with the responsibility of daily operations, implementing Board policies, and representing the organization's member-firms in various Industry, state and local capacities. Outgoing E.G.A. Treasurer Chester Almond, left, of PURITAN GRANITE COMPANY, INC., presents a gavel and plaque to E.G.A. President Robert Mize in appreciation for his leadership during the 1993-94 year. The presentation was made at the E.G.A. Annual Meeting in June. "Industry Leadership" is Theme Of 1994 E.G.A. Annual Meeting. The Elberton Granite Association's role as the leader in the Monument Industry was spotlighted at the organization's 43rd Annual Meeting at the Elberton Civic Center on June 22. Representatives from most of E.G.A.'s 154 members considered impor­tant issues and decisions facing the Association and elected three new members to the Board of Trustees. Those attending were informed that the U.S. Bureau of Mines 1993 statistics once again indicate that Georgia is the leading producer of dimension granite in the nation. Subsequently, the Elberton Granite Association is the largest organization of granite quarriers and monument manufacturers in the entire U.S. and consequently bears the mantle of leadership. E.G.A. President Robert W. Mize challenged the membership to accept this role and continue their individual and cooperative efforts to meet the ongoing changes of the Death Care Industry. Wide-Ranging Services E.G.A. Executive Vice President Tom Robinson presented the 1993-94 Annual Report documenting the wide-ranging areas of service provided by E.G.A. to its members, the Retail Monument Industry, and the community. These areas include: MEMBER SERVICES, SERVICE TO CUSTOMERS OF E.G.A. MEMBERS, SALES DEVELOPMENT, INTER-INDUSTRY RELATIONS, and COMMU ITY RELATIONS. Mr. Robinson and E. G.A. President Robert W. Mize expressed appreciation to the member companies for their participation and support. They pointed out that none of E.G.A.'s activities and accomplishments would be possible without the financial and moral backing of the member­firms. New Members Recognized A highlight of the meeting was the pre­sentation of handsome mem bership plaques to companies who joined E.G.A. during the past fiscal year. They included: Voting Members B & B QUARRY, INC.; NORTH EAST GRANITE QUARRY, INC.; PAMAS & COMPANY, INC.; PRECISION DIAMOND SAWING, INC.; RELIANCE GRANITE COMPANY; and TRINITY GRANITE COMPANY; Sustaining Members H & H MAINTENANCE AND FABRICATION COMPANY; HULME'S TOOL SHOP; and PALADIN PROCESS MACHINERY, INC.; and Associate Member SONYA & JIM'S MEMORIAL DRAFTING AND ETCHINGS. Following the business meeting, the large crowd of Granite Industry colleagues, business associates, old friends, and many family members enjoyed a delicious cocktail buffet which is a tradition at the Annual Meeting. The following is a pictorial report of the fun and fellowship. Photo identifications are from left to right. Representatives from companies joining E.G.A. during the 1993-94 year were recognized and received membership plaques. They included, sitting, left to right, Tedd Hendrix of H & H MAINTENANCE & FAB­RICATION COMPANY; Debbie Stone of NORTH EAST GRANITE QUARRY, INC.; Eddie Curtis of PAMAS & COMPANY, INC.; standing, Derek Dye of HULME'S TOOL SHOP; Alison Brown of TRINITY GRANITE COMPANY; and James Noggle of RELIANCE GRANITE COMPANY. Not present for the photograph were representatives of B & B QUARRY, INC.; PRECISION DIAMOND SAWING, INC.; PALADIN PROCESS MACHINERY, INC.; and SONYA & JIM'S MEMORIAL DRAFTING AND ETCHINGS. Allen Herndon of WELCH'S GRANITE COMPANY, INC., and Chuck Martin of MARTIN GRANITE COMPANY. Mr. & Mrs. Tony Hill and Bill Stevens of GEORGIA-CAROLINA QUARRIES. Alton Haynes, and his daughter, Par Haston, of HAYNES GRANITE COMPANY, and Gordon McIntosh of COLONIAL GRANITE COMPANY. Brothers Jimmy and George Wallis of STANDARD GRANITE COMPANY. Mr. & Mrs. Marvin Higginbotham of MOON ROCK GRANITE QUARRIES, INC. Mr. & Mrs. Mike Webb of APOLLO GRANITE COMPANY, INC. Mr. & Mrs. Alison Brown of TRINITY GRANITE COMPANY, INC. Barbara Griggs of WILSON INDUSTRIAL ELECTRIC, INC., and her husband, Richard, of LEXINGTON BLUE GRANITE COMPANY, INC. George Tyler and Barry Avery of CENTURY GRANITE COMPANY, INC. Jerry Owens and Otis Childs of CHILDS & CHILDS GRANITE COMPANY, INC. Ruffin Bell and son, Nick, of BELL GRANITE COMPANY, INC. Horace Harper, standing, of APEX GRANITE COMPANY, INC., his son and daughter-in-law, Mr. & Mrs. Keith Harper of PALMETTO BLUE QUARRY, INC., and Horace's wife, Gail. Clarence McLanahan, Dennis Bryant, and George Earl Scarborough of REPUBLIC­HIGHPOINT-STERLING GRANITE COMPANIES. Becky Barfield, her dad, Chuck, and sister, Debbie, all of INDUSTRIAL BUILDING SYSTEMS, INC. Mr. & Mrs. John Mitchell of SPARTAN TOOL COMPANY. Rhea Wiles and Stephanie Fleming of CLASSIC MONUMENTS, INC. Mr. & Mrs. Calvin Vaughn and their son and daughter-in-law, Mr. & Mrs. Robert Vaughn, of UNIVERSAL MEMORIAL COMPANY, INC. Mr. & Mrs. Alton Smith of OLD OAK MONUMENT COMPANY and their brother and sister-in-law, Mr. and Mrs. Doug Smith of PALMETTO BLUE QUARRY, INC. 1994 Annual Meeting Fun, Fellowship. Tony Adams of GOLD EAGLE QUARRIES, INC., and Ronnie Brown of GRANITE SALES AND SUPPLY CORPORATION. Lindy Worley of SUPERIOR GRANITE COMPANY, INC., and James Noggle of RELIANCE GRANITE COMPANY. Mr. & Mrs. Butch Rhodes of QUALITY MONUMENT SALES, INC., and Vanessa Lee of OLD OAK MONUMENT COMPANY. Mike Simmons of SUPREME GRANITE COMPANY, INC., and brothers Greg and David Giannoni of CENTRAL GRANITE COMPANY, INC. Mr. & Mrs. Jerry King of KING'S MONUMENT COMPANY, INC. Tom Oglesby of KEYSTONE MEMORIALS, INC., and Tedd Hendrix of H & H MAINTENANCE AND FABRICATION. Bob Paul and Mrs. Margaret Fortson of DIXIE GRANITE COMPANY. Johnny Swygert of A-ONE GRANITE MEMORIALS, and Ronnie Lovinggood and Frank Bone of BICKNELL MANUFACTURING COMPANY. Marcel Grimard and Janet Maddox of ROYALTY GRANITE CORPORATION. More Companies Join E.G.A. Ranks Four more companies have joined the Elberton Granite Association, Inc., to bring the membership to a record total of 154 - an all-time high. For several years, E.G.A. has enjoyed the distinction of being the nation's largest organization of wholesale granite quarriers and monument manufacturers - thus being in a position to offer support and participation in a large variety of programs assisting members as well as monument retailers and allied organizations. E.G.A.'s new members are introduced in the following stories. AMERISTONE - Voting Member James and Tammy Hall are a husband-wife team which owns new E.G.A. Voting Member, AMERISTONE, a monument finishing concern. The company's manufacturing facilities are located on Shallow Creek Road off Highway 368 three miles north of Elberton. The young couple, both with family backgrounds in the Granite Industry, say they offer an extra dimension to customers since James is experienced in drafting and structural stone work - making him adept at designing and fabricating specialty as well as traditional work. "I enjoy special projects such as mausoleums and the restoration of old tombs by encasing them in granite," said James. James formerly operated a trucking and truck repair service with his father, Fred Hall. In 1989, James purchased a granite brokerage business from his step-father, Alan Skelton, General Manager of SOUTHERN MAUSOLEUMS, INC. In 1992, James converted an all­steel warehouse into a monument plant and added a total of 120- linear-feet onto the facility. It now includes approximately 8,000-sq.­ft. of work area. Major equipment includes a diamond block saw, coring machine, two bridge cranes, and other equipment for monument manufacturing. He plans to install an automatic polishing line. The company markets "Ameristone Blue," and "Ebony Mist" gran­ites and has access to other colors. James graduated from Elbert County Comprehensive High School where he studied drafting. He became the Head Draftsman for the Richard B. Russell Dam project near Elberton and later worked as a draftsman for a large local structural granite company which helped him be more precise on dimensions where exact specifications apply. Tammy began her career in the Granite Industry working in TAMMY & JAMES HALL sales for her mother, Mrs. Peggy Childs, owner of CLASSIC MONUMENTS, INC. A graduate of the University of Georgia with a Bachelors Degree in Trade and Industrial Education, she is working toward her Masters Degree in the same field. She is employed at the local high school as the Diversified Cooperative Training Coordinator, and directs a work-study program. Tammy works part-time as a bookkeeper and in sales at AMERISTONE. The couple has two daughters, Christy and Jessica. The family attends Elberton Christian Church. H. H. & H. GRANITE SALES, INC. ­Voting Member. Among E.G.A.'s newest voting members, H. H. & H. GRANITE SALES, INC., is a family-owned monument manufacturing company owned by Jeff Haynes, his father, AW. Haynes, and Jeff's brother, Nathan. Another brother, Billy Haynes, works at the firm. The company is approximately two years old and is located on the Jones Ferry Road seven miles south of Elberton. Jeff, who heads operations, said he and the other members of his family wanted a busi­ness they could all participate in and - with his and his dad's experi­ence in the Granite Industry - "it looked like a good business for us to get into." The company operates in a 3,500-sq.-ft. facility built by A.W. and Billy Haynes. The firm markets "Elberton Dark Blue Granite" and has access to all other colors. H. H. & H. operates three, six-wheel trucks for long-haul deliveries. Jeff and his father are directly involved in supervision of company activities, while Nathan lives in Boca Raton, Florida, and operates a produce brokerage business. Jeff is President of the company, AW. is Vice President, and Nathan is Secretary-Treasurer. After graduation from Elbert County High School, Jeff undertook a career in the construction business and also has extensive experience in granite quarrying and manufacturing. He is married to the A. W HA YNES, center, and his sons, BILLY, left, and JEFF. former Lisa Coggins and they have one son. AW. Haynes has a background in construction and granite sales at both the wholesale and retail levels. He served in the Army during the Korean War and is a Mason and Shriner. ECHOLS MILL QUARRY - Voting Member Emory McCurley, a well-known Elberton Granite District quarryman, is the owner of the ECHOLS MILL QUARRY, another of E.G.A.'s newest voting members. Mr. McCurley and his son, James, are operating the facility formerly known as the "Monarch Blue Granite" Quarry owned by Century Granite Company, Inc. Mr. McCurley is the son of the late James McCurley, Sr., who owned Dove's Creek Granite Company and the "Blue Ribbon Granite" Quarry, and has been affiliated with the Granite Industry nearly all his life. The Echols Mill Quarry is located near the Vesta Community in Oglethorpe County approximately 18 miles South of Elberton. The facility is near Millstone Creek in the center of a region where numerous quarries are located. The granite is medium to dark blue in color and fine-grained. It is being marketed as "Echols Mill Blue Granite" and is currently being sold for domestic use only. Mr. McCurley said he is presently using two crawler-types and a truck crane at the quarry. He noted that mobile cranes are more expedient to move to different areas than stationary derricks which must be dismantled to move. The quarry has an opening approximately 10,000-sq.-ft. in size and a depth of SO-ft. The firm also has access to an adjoining 16,000-sq.-ft. quarry, which was formerly Century Granite Company's main quarry. Mr. McCurley noted that the quarries are located on a 40-acre tract which has plenty of surface granite and ample room for expansion. Mr. McCurley is an Elbert County native who graduated from South Cobb High School at Austell, Georgia. He worked in the JAMES, left, and EMORY McCURLEY Atlanta area for a short time, then came back to Elberton and built equipment for the Granite Industry for many years. He began quarrying granite several years ago and has established a solid reputation as one of the area's knowledgeable quarrymen. He has three children, including James who graduated from Elbert County Comprehensive High School two years ago and joined his father in the quarrying business. James is attending Piedmont College at Demorest, Georgia, and works at the quarry during summers and holidays. ELBERTON OFFICE EQUIPMENT & SUPPLIES, INC. Associate Member. Computer enthusiast Harold Carter is the owner of E.G.A.'s newest Associate Member, ELBERTON OFFICE EQUIPMENT & SUPPLIES, INC., - a major distributor of computer assisted design equipment. In fact, the company is the sole firm outside of New York marketing MONU-CAD systems developed by Monumental Computer Applications of Cherry Valley, New York. While Mr. Carter's firm furnishes local busi­nesses all the standard products of a full-service office supply firm, he offers his computer sales and services to the entire Monument Industry. Harold has traveled to numerous state and regional meetings demonstrating the CAD system. He has customers throughout the southeast and southwest. A native of Harlan County, Kentucky, Harold graduated from the Tennessee Institute of Technology at Cookeville with a degree in Industrial Engineering. He was introduced to computers while serving in a security agency of the U.S. Army and has continued working with them all of his adult life. Harold moved to Elberton and established a computer con­sulting and business service company. He purchased Elberton Office Equipment in 1979 and began expanding his computer expertise from strictly business applications to drafting and design opportunities. He was an early advocate of the use of computers in the Monument Industry. A shooting enthusiast, Mr. Carter has participated in pistol, rifle, and shotgun competition for over 30 years and has scores of trophies. Harold is the founder and President of the Elbert County Gun Club. HAROLD CARTER Brothers Purchase L & M Granite Company, Inc. Tony and Stanley Mills, two brothers who have worked in monument finishing nearly all of their adult lives, are the new owners of L & M GRANITE COMPANY, INC. The Mills brothers purchased the firm from their former employer, Mac Thornton, who sold the busi­ness due to health reasons. Mac will continue his involvement as a partner in B & M Quarries, Inc., an entirely separate business. "Our background is in monument manufacturing and because of our many years here at L & M, we know the kind of quality and service our customers expect," said the brothers after assuming L & M ownership on July 15. "We are proud to have the opportunity to own this company. We know what good service and workmanship is all about, and we look forward to meeting and serving current as well as potential customers." Mr. Thornton expressed confidence that the brothers will continue the L & M tradition of service. "They operated the business when I was out due to a serious illness, and I am certain that they will maintain our standards of quality," he said. Stanley and Tony are the sons of the late Bart Mills, an Elberton Granite Industry craftsman, and both worked in monument manu­facturing at an early age. Stanley, a Journeyman Stonecutter, has worked with granite for the past 20 years, the last eight at L & M Granite. He became Plant Foreman in 1986 when Tony, who was then Foreman, took over sales and deliveries. Stanley is a graduate of Elbert County High School, is married, and has a son and TONY and STANLEY MILLS daughter. Tony has been employed in the Granite Industry for 17 years and is a Journeyman Stonecutter. He has worked for some of Elberton's largest monument firms and was Plant Foreman at L & M for seven years-before taking over sales and deliveries. A Mason, Tony also graduated from Elbert County High School and attended the Athens Area Technical Institute at nearby Athens, Georgia. He is married and has two sons. New Partner at H & H Maintenance and Fabrication. Stephen Maxwell has become Co-owner of H & H MAINTENANCE AND FABRICATION COMPANY. Mr. Maxwell purchased the interest of William Huguley and joins Tedd Hendrix in the ownership of the E.G.A. Sustaining Member which designs and manufactures equipment for the Granite Industry. The business is in the Airport Industrial Park off the Middleton Road two miles east of Elberton. Stephen is a native and resident of Lavonia, Georgia, in Franklin County near Elberton. After graduation from Franklin County High School, he became a welder and most recently worked in Elberton for another major Granite Industry equipment manufacturer. Stephen is married and has one child. A memorial tribute worthy of the most powerful political leader in the world was dedicated at the Georgia State Capitol on June 7, 1994 - due to the production exper­tise at KEYSTONE MEMORIALS, INC The complex "Topaz Blue" and "Hedquist Pink" Granite garden-type, memorial plaza hon­ors Georgia native son Jimmy Carter who ascended from South Georgia peanut farmer to the office of the U.S. Presidency. Keystone Memorials President Tom Oglesby termed it "one of the most challenging projects our company ever under­took". He added: "When your work is going to the State Capitol to honor the President of the United States and is going to be seen by thousands, you want it to be right. We are proud of it - our people in the quarries, the plant, and the office all did us and the state proud!" The memorial, adjacent to the front entrance, is an elliptical plaza including flame-finished and steeled "Topaz Blue Granite" wedge and oval-shaped pavers, entrance light pedestals, and four large, one-piece benches. Locally quarried, "Hedquist Pink Granite" was selected for the background tablet and the oval-shaped and rectangular pedestals that support a bronze statue of Mr. Carter. Biographical information about his life as a citizen, farmer, naval officer, Georgia State Senator and Governor, and as U.S. President are engraved on the large tablet and benches. Largest Piece Ever The background tablet for the 6-ft.-tall statue of President Carter; depicted in work clothes, is the largest piece of "Hedquist Pink Granite" ever quarried, according to quarry owner Tom Oglesby. It is 4-ft., 6-in. long and 10-ft., 6-in. high, and is concaved on the front and convex on the back. It contains over 1,400 letters and a carving of the Presidential Seal. In addition to Carter biographical information, it lists patrons who funded the memorial. The pedestals for the 6-ft.-tall statue are all-steeled "Hedquist Pink Granite" and consist of curved veneer sections around an oval­shaped platform and a rectangular base to which the statue is anchored. Over 800-sq. ft. of thermal-finished, 4-in.-thick pavers are in the walkway and form a 40-ft. elliptical shaped plaza that includes a 13-ft. center oval. The walkway approach is granite, as are two rounded, 2- ft.-high steeled pedestals for globe entrance lights. They duplicate shipboard lights symbolic of Mr. Carter's service as a Naval Officer. Unique Benches Adding to the uniqueness of the memo­rial plaza are four, all-steeled, concave benches 9-ft., 5-in. long and 2-ft., 4-in. high with heavy, protruding rounds on the front edges. Highlights of Mr. Carter's career are recorded on the benches. Ms. Nancy Coggins Whitworth of GRANITE ENVIRONMENTAL CONSULTANTS was instrumental in the realization of the memorial project. Although the site was provided by the State, a Carter Tribute Commission created by Governor Zell Miller and the Georgia Legislature secured private funding. Ms. Whitworth was active in Mr. Carter's presidential campaign and later worked for the staff of First Lady Rosalynn Carter. The Tribute Commission contacted her about using granite in the project. The design was formulated by Rick Pariano of EDAW, Inc., a landscape architecture firm of Atlanta. The statue was created by renowned native Georgia sculptor Frederick Hart. The life-sized statue of President Carter depicts him reaching out to humanity PRESIDENT JIMMY CARTER Elberton Granite Presidential Tribute. Computer Wizardry, Ageless Artistry In Utah Memorial. Personalized magnificence - in imaginative design and artistic production - are evident in the WAGNER Memorial depicted on the back cover of this issue of the GRANITEER. Produced by HARMONY BLUE GRANITE COMPANY, INC., for Hans Monuments of Salt Lake City, Utah, the memorial skillfully combines contrasting finishes and colors of granites and demonstrates the matchless talents of Harmony Blue Master Sculptor Dario Rossi. Hans Monuments Owner Hans Huettlinger used his computer­assisted-design system to personalize the memorial, including columns similar to those in the customer's home, for the T.J. Wagner family of Salt Lake City. Mr. Wagner is a prominent realtor. Mr. Huettlinger, a fifth-generation stone sculptor immigrated to Salt Lake City from Germany when he was 1 7. He praised the craftsmanship of Mr. Rossi who fashioned 3-ft.-high decorative columns flanking a center tablet. Form Solid Unit The tooled-finish "Harmony Superior Blue Granite" columns are in bas relief with the back of the uprights forming background panels. They include hand-sculptored flutes, beading at the bottom, and caps and ornamentation at the top. Mr. Huettlinger explained that they are epoxied and doweled to both the center tablet and base to make the memorial one-piece. The polished "Flash Black Granite" tablet has an oval top and carvings include the Star of David and cultured rose carvings and a vee line accenting the wedding date. The stylized lettering and floral carving were personally executed by Mr. Huettlinger. The memorial is in the B-Nay Israel Jewish Cemetery in Salt Lake City. E.G.A. Saluted by Chamber. Many E.G.A. Members are active in the Elbert County Chamber of Commerce and are periodically recognized for their achievements as part of the Elberton Business Community. All Member-Firms were collectively honored in July when the Elberton Granite Association, Inc., was saluted by the Chamber's Community Pride Committee who designated E.G.A. as the "Industry of the Month". E.G.A. President Robert Mize Ill of MIZE GRANITE SALES, INC., and E.G.A. Executive Vice President Tom Robinson were presented a sign/plaque which was displayed in front of the Granite Center in July. "On behalf of the 154 E.G.A. Members, we are proud of this recognition by our fellow businesspersons," said Mr. Robinson. "Without the support and assistance of the entire E.G.A. Member­ship, none of our activities and programs would be possible, much less successful." Individual E.G.A. Members have also been similarly recognized by the Chamber and they include McCANNON GRANITE COMPANY, INC.; STAR GRANITE COMPANY, INC.; APEX GRANITE COMPANY, INC.; IMEX INTERNATIONAL, INC.; GEORGIA STONE INDUSTRIES, INC.; KEYSTONE MEMORIALS, INC. and CHILDS & CHILDS GRANITE COMPANY, INC. E.G.A. Executive Vice President Tom Robinson, left, and President Robert Mize, second from right, proudly accept the "Industry of the Month" sign from Community Pride Committee members Libby Eavenson, Chamber President Steve Jenkins, Committee Member Judge Jane Johnson, and Committee Chairman Don Fortson. E.G.A. MEMBER SPOTLIGHT -(Ed Note-The CRANITEER periodically spotlights member-firms in order to acquaint our readers with the various Elberton Granite compa­nies and their personnel and to lead to a better understanding and appreciation of these member-firms who bring you this magazine and innumerable other services from the "Granite Capital of The World." Personal Service Is Goal At G. B. Moon Memorials Inc. E.G.A. Member G.B. MOON MEMORIALS, INC., is -according to Co-owners Gerald and Reba Moon -a "medium-sized company which has grown about as big as we want it to get. It's not that we don't want more volume or could not use more business. In fact, we seek new customers, but we don't want to grow to the point that we have a large work force and can't give personalized attention to our orders." Gerald and Reba seemingly have the perfect situation within the context of the size company they describe. Located on the Anthony Shoals Road just off Georgia Highway 79 South ten miles east of Elberton, their all-metal monument manufacturing plant encompasses approximately 9,200-sq.-ft. Personal Attention Gerald and a close friend, noted Granite Industry machinist and equipment builder Troy Colquitt, constructed and equipped the facility in 1986. "Troy and I built just about every bit of it -so I know it was clone right." adds Gerald. He operated at a differ­ent location before constructing his current plant located approximately 100 yards from he and Reba's home. They founded the company in 1986 and completed a 2,000 sq.-ft. addition to the plant in 1989. Equipped for monument finishing opera­tions, the company has two heavy-duty bridge cranes, a diamond shaping saw, a multi-purpose diamond saw with a 5-ft., 4- in. blade, a diamond bit coring machine, a profile grinding machine, a big polishing mill and a top-and-end polisher. Gerald says he has plans to acid an additional dia­mond block saw soon. Variety of Granites The company's sales are concentrated mostly in the Southeastern and Southwestern U.S. The company markets "Elberton Blue", "Silver Cloud", and "Ebony Mist" granites, plus "Morning Rose Granite" from Canada. The company also has access to a wide variety of other colored granites. A native of Elbert County, Gerald has been in monument manufacturing most all of his adult life. He served with the U.S. Army Combat Engineers in Vietnam and became a Journeyman Stonecutter after returning to civilian life in Elberton. The son of a retired Elberton Granite Industry crafts­man, Gerald has over 28 years experience and can produce almost any type of monument work -specialized or routine. He is President of G.B. Moon Memorials and Reba is Secretary-Treasurer. He is a member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars and is a devoted hunter and fisherman. Reba is also an Elbert native. After graduation from Elbert County High School, she became a respiratory technician at Elbert Memorial Hospital before marrying Gerald and joining the granite business. She is a leader in the Bethlehem United Methodist Church where she teaches Sunday School, sings in the Choir, and formerly served as Secretary of the Administrative Board. The couple belongs to the Elbert County Chamber of Commerce. Sons Involved Gerald and Reba's sons, Scott Moon and Steve Thornton, are involved in stonecutting and other phases of production. Scott concentrates on stonecutting and Steve on polishing. Gerald and Reba have a daughter, Tracie, who is a Freshman at Elbert County Comprehensive High School. GERALD and REBA MOON SCOTT MOON, left, and STEVE THORNTON assist their parents in the granite company operations. The G.B. Moon Memorials plant is completely equipped for monument finishing operations. The students proudly posed in front of the large Elberton Granite Museum sign. Willie Simmons, center, of Sweet City Quarries gives the group a personal tour of his quarry. Jim Boyd, right, of Robin Blue Quarries and Boyd Granite Company, points out production processes to the visiting group and their hosts. E.G.A. Executive Vice President Tom Robinson presents gift packets on behalf of E.G.A. Members to Chaperones Mieko Kiyamoto, center, and Hatsuyo Shibano. E.G.A. Hosts Visiting Japanese Students. For the eleventh consecutive summer, the granite-producing centers of Elberton and Mure-Cho, Japan, have exchanged high school students in a program promoting goodwill and cultural interchange between nations. This past July, eight Japanese students and two chaperones visited host families in Elberton and then took an equiv­alent number of Elberton students back with them for ten days in Mure-Cho. An annual highlight of the Japanese students' visit to the "Granite Capital of the World" is a tour of the ELBERTON GRANITE MUSEUM & EXHIBIT and visits to E.G.A. Member quarries and plants. These tours always have special meaning for the Oriental visitors, for usually one or more have parents or relatives in the Mure-Cho Granite Industry. Plant, Quarry Visits This year, the group visited the "Pyramid Blue Granite Quarry" owned by FENDLEY ENTERPRISES, INC., the "Royal Blue Granite Quarry" operated by SWEET CITY QUARRIES, INC., and the "Robin Blue Granite" Quarry and monument finishing plant operated by BOYD GRANITE COMPANY, INC. Following the quarry and plant tours, E.G.A Members treated the visitors to an All-American Hot Dog and Hamburger Luncheon where E.G.A. Executive Vice President Tom Robinson stated how much the exchange program meant to the two cities. He then presented gift packets containing mementos and educational materials about Elberton and the Granite Industry. Representatives from the firms visited by the Japanese also attended the luncheon. Chaperones Mieko Kiyamoto and Hatsuyo Shibono graciously expressed their gratitude for the hospitality of E.G.A. Members. Prior to the group's departure two weeks later, they and their host families were guests at a farewell banquet sponsored by Willie Sim­mons of the Sweet City firm and SUPREME GRANITE COMPANY, INC., and Tom Evans of the Evanswinn Company, a local granite export-import company. Mr. Evans is the longtime Chairman of the Elberton Sister City Committee. The program is sponsored by by the Town Affiliation of the U.S., Inc., to promote cultural interchange between nations. Outstanding ECCHS Grads Get E.G.A. Scholarships. E.G.A. Executive Vice President Tom Robinson presents the E.G.A. Scholarship to Coleman Fannin. Mary Smith accepts her E. G.A. Scholarship from the organization's Executive Vice President, Tom Robinson. Members of the Elberton Granite Association, Inc., are ever cognizant that the community's - indeed the nation's - future is in the hands of today's school-age generation. Since 1967, E.G.A. firms have annually shown their faith and confidence in local youth by awarding scholarships to graduating seniors at Elbert County Com­prehensive High School. Each year two Seniors, whose parents are employed in the Granite Industry are selected to receive a $700.00 award based on academic achievement, cumulative grade point average, SAT scores, extracurricular activities, and leadership abilities. The 1994 E.G.A. Scholarship recipients are Mary Smith, the daughter of Eugene Smith, a Ledge Foreman for QUARRIES, INC., and Coleman Fannin, the son of Mr. and Mrs. Phillip Fannin, Owners of GEORGIA INTERNATIONAL STONE, INC. MARY SMITH An Honor Graduate at ECCHS, Mary was a member of the National Honor Society, Beta Club, Interact Club, Yearbook Staff, Distributive Education Clubs of America, and History Club. She served as President of the Future Business Leaders of America, President of the Future Georgia Educators Club, and was Secretary of the History Club. She ranked tenth overall scholastically in her class. She is attending North Georgia College and majoring in Education. She plans to return to Elberton after graduation and teach in the local school system. COLEMAN FANNIN Also an Honor Graduate, Coleman ranked eighth in his class and was a member of the Beta Club, National Honor Society, Interact Club, Fellowship of Christian Athletes, Future Business Leaders of America and Mu Alpha Theta. He served as Vice President of the Student Council his Senior Year, President of the Key Club, President of the French Club; and was Captain of both the school Tennis and Cross Country teams. He received the following honors and awards: a Georgia Certificate of Merit for being named a National Merit Finalist; Who's Who in the Senior Class; 10th District Winner, U.S. Senate Youth Program; Century III Leadership Award; and was a Model UN Participant. He is attending the University of Georgia Honors Program on an Alumni Scholarship. LANDMARK GRANITE COMPANY, INC. - Don Webb, owner of Don Webb Memorials in Longview, Texas, is a new monument retailer and his very first sale was this outstanding monument he personally designed for a local banker and her in-laws. The unit is a clever combination of steeled "Twilite Gray Granite" wings and an "African Jet Black Granite" center tablet. The wings have rounded shoulders and reverse tapered ends. The polished center tablet has a gabled top and steeply-tapered ends. A unique feature is the ornate, sand-sculptured rose carving in bas relief. The monument is in the Gilmer, Texas. City Cemetery. SOUTHERN GRANITE COMPANY, INC. - Excellence in design and craftsmanship are evident in this polished "African Black Granite" memorial featuring an etching, gold leaf lettering, and sand-sculptured cultured rose carvings. The 5-ft. -high, contemporary-styled tablet, and Euro-style vase produced by Southern's special turning equipment are on an L-shaped, 6-tt. -long base with a polished margin. Vaughn's Monument Works, Inc., of Cookeville, Tennessee, erected the memorial in the Brasell Cemetery in Cookeville. S & W GRANITE COMPANY, INC. - One of the most eye-catching monuments produced in Elberton recently - inspirational in both design and workmanship - memorializes the late Larry Veal, Sr., of Bowman in Elbert County. Mr. Veal was sales man­ager for one of Elberton's monument manufacturing firms, a retired U.S. Postal Service employee, and Bowman merchant. He was the father of Larry Veal, Jr., a sandblast engraver at S & W Granite Company, who personally assisted S & W President Waymon Worley in the fabrication of the four-piece memorial. It consists of a two-piece, alI-polished "Raven Black Granite" tablet which has a modernistic, all-straight line look. The upper section of the tablet is attached to what constitutes a black granite sub-base. Deep beveled checks - and a frosted horizontal check - are cut where the pieces join. Tapering frosted outline borders give the illusion of chamfered edges on the upper tablet. A cultured rose panel is engraved on the steeled "Elberton Blue Granite sub-base and Mr. Veal's marriage date and the names of his children are inscribed on the ends of the sub-base. The family name is in hand-drawn, custom letters. The monument is in the Bowman City Cemetery. SOUTHERN MAUSOLEUMS, INC. -Notable in design, selection of materials, and artistic workmanship, this three-crypt, all-polished, "Missouri Red Granite" mausoleum was erected in Elberton's Elmhurst Cemetery for the family of former Elbertonian Fred Seymour. Designed by Southern Mausoleums, the unit is 10-ft., 6-in.-deep, 8-ft., 3-in.-wide, and 8-ft., 10-in. high. Outstanding features include double, swingout bronze doors; a recessed niche on the front with a carving of a vase and flowers; a single-piece, gabled roof, all-polished interior; and an art glass window in the back. CENTRAL GRANITE COMPANY, INC. - Jackie Kerkoff, President of Ketterhagen Memorials, Burlington, Wisconsin, has high praise for the crafts­men at Central Granite Company who produced this "Flash Black Granite" memorial. "Because black granite is so tough to hand tool, the people at Central took on a challenge with this project," she said. Jackie designed the monument when the customer requested "an older-style design with a chunky-type finish that would also include an etching of the couple." The 4-ft., 4-in.-high monument has a rock-pitched finish and features the family name in an axed panel with round raised letters on the front and an etching on the back. The panels are framed by a 1/2"-in. raised border and acanthus leaf carving. The floral shapes were included on the panels to soften the effect of the monument's rustic finish. On the back, a polished recessed panel contains an etching of the couple and an inscription duplicating Mrs. Remer's signature. The portrait was executed by a Ketterhagen Memorials consulting etching artist. The monument is in the St. Mary's Catholic Church Cemetery in Burlington. CONSOLIDATED GRANITE COMPANY, INC. Former Elbertonian Peggy Gaffney Powers, owner of Consolidated Monument Company of Palm Bay, Florida, designed this large and impressive memorial for a young Floridian, Greg Oliveira. The all­polished "African Black Granite" monument is 6-ft. -high and 1-ft. -thick. It includes a lengthy epitaph - a tribute from Greg's family - symbolic Dove of Peace carvings, and a sand­crafted oak tree. The carving and lettering is framed by vee lines outlining the contours of the monument which is in Florida Memorial Gardens Cemetery at Rockledge, near Orlando. BOYD GRANITE COMPANY, INC. This stately, upright-type memorial was erected by Clarkesville Memorial Company of Clarkesville, Tennessee. The monument was custom-designed by the Clarkesville firm. Fabricated from "Robin Blue Granite", the 4-ft. - wide monument includes the family name in round-raised letters 3/4-in.-high. It is 5-ft., 6-in. tall and has an apex top, checks reversed 1/2-in. on the ends, and 3-in. nosings at the base. The monument is in Greenwood Cemetery in Clarkesville. MOTES MONUMENT SALES, INC. This special memorial is an excellent example of how a monument can be appropriate in a cremation situation. It was designed by the family of a 12-year-old youth killed in an accident and is a repository for the cremains. The design and expert workmanship skillfully blends rustic rock-pitched and polished surfaces. The "Ebony Mist Granite" monument was erected in the Lexington Cemetery by Kentucky Monument Service of Lexington, Kentucky. KEYSTONE MEMORIALS, INC. - This imposing Cross is one of the largest of its type produced for a private cemetery lot. The towering, 22-ft. -high monument marks the gravesites in Resurrection Catholic Cemetery, Mindota Heights, Minnesota, of two families bonded by marriage. Both are prominent in business in the Mindota Heights area. The Cross and base are fabricated from all-steeled blue-gray granite and the sub-bases are from polished "American Black Granite.” The memorial weighs 68,000-lbs. It was designed and erected by Fergus Falls Monument Company, Inc., of Fergus Falls, Minnesota. WILES GRANITE COMPANY, INC. - The multi-pieced, all-steeled 'Wiles Blue Granite" memorial was custom-designed by Freddie War­ren of Stringer & Griffin Monument Company of Jasper, Texas. and Danny Wiles, Owner of Wiles Granite Company, Inc. The massive 34-piece monument was precisely produced to assure flawless assembly. It is 21-ft.-long, 4-ft., 6-in. high and consists of five bases, four end pedestals, four top rails, ten balusters, and other assorted components, including individual markers. The center tablet has an apex top and the family name is in 6-in.­high round raised letters. The memorial is in Memorial Park Cemetery in Jasper. M.8.N.A.'s 86th - Nashville is 1995 Convention Site. Beautiful memorial designs and the latest in equipment and supplies will be on display at the 86th Annual Convention and Exhibit of the Monument Builders of North America January 29 - February 1, 1995. Nashville, Tennessee, a location convenient to the vast majority of MBNA members or others who may be interested in attending, has been selected as the site for what is being called "the biggest ever monument convention". A full Industry Exhibit is planned for the 1995 meeting and, according to MBNA, exhibitors have responded in record numbers. Exhibits Open Four Days To allow the convention attendees plenty of time in the Exhibit Hall, approximately 15 hours over a four day period, have been set aside for the Industry Exhibit. The Exhibits open at 1 P.M. on Sunday and will be open each day of the convention. In addition to finely crafted memorials attendees can expect to see the latest in stone working tools and supplies, including numerous computer systems for business and drafting applications. Hotel and Convention Center Headquarters for the exhibit will be the Nashville Convention Center and adjoining Stouffer Hotel in photo at right. The Convention Center and Stouffer are connected for the added convenience and year round comfort of the guests. The hotel is a four-star facility located in downtown Nashville. It is linked thru a sky-walk system to some of Nashville's best shopping areas. The Convention Center is a relatively new facility with a well-lit, spacious exhibit hall and conveniently located meeting rooms for M.B.N.A.'s educational programs. E.G.A. Well Represented Sixteen E.G.A. manufacturers, quarriers and supply firms are look­ing forward to presenting their products in Nashville. A list of those E.G.A. Member-firms that have already reserved booths are listed below. These firms have reserved 42 booths to display the latest in memorial designs manufactured from some of the finest granites on the market. Convention Registration Everyone is encouraged to register early. Registration materials have already been mailed to MBNA members, but if they have been misplaced or if anyone is not on the mailing list, contact MBNA at 1-800-233-4472 today for the MBNA Convention Packet. The registration fee of $285 (MBNA members) will include a complete package of meals and entertainment as well as admission to the Industry Exhibit each day and all educational sessions. LOOK FOR THESE E.G.A. EXHIBITORS IN NASHVILLE. AMERISTONE, BOYD GRANITE, COMPANY, INC. CENTRAL GRANITE COMPANY CHILDS & CHILDS GRANITE COMPANY HARMONY BLUE GRANITE COMPANY KEYSTONE MEMORIALS, INC. LANDMARK GRANITE COMPANY, SOUTHERN GRANITE COMPANY, SOUTHERN MAUSOLEUMS, INC. WALKER GRANITE COMPANY, INC. ANDERSON TRUCKING SERVICE, BICKNELL MANUFACTURING COMPANY, CREATIVE-PREMIER DESIGNS, GRAN-QUARTZ TRADING, INC., HENRY & HENRY TRUCKING, NED-KUT DIAMOND PRODUCTS, ELBERTON GRANITE ASSOCIATION, INC. Elberton Memorials Commemorate Military Veterans E.G.A. member-firms are continuing to regularly produce an interesting variety of outstanding memorials of varying sizes, shapes and finishes to honor the men and women who served their country in time of war. The following are recent examples and will be included in the E.G.A. REFERENCE LOAN NOTEBOOK OF WAR MEMORIALS which many monument retailers have successfully used to provide design ideas and conclude sales of military memorials to governmental, veterans, and civic groups. IN AMHERST, VIRGINIA This truly picturesque veterans memorial, successfully combining different materials, was produced by WILES GRANITE COMPANY, INC., for Baer & Sons Memorials of Lynchburg, Virginia. Erected in Amherst, near Lynchburg, the all-steeled "Wiles Blue Granite" monument is dedicated to fallen veterans of Amherst County. Originally designed to salute fallen veterans of World War II, plans now call for future plaques to honor those who served in Korea and Vietnam. The 4-ft.-high memorial was erected by area American Legion Posts No. 100 and 274 on the Amherst Courthouse grounds. It was designed by Michael E. Baer of the retail monument firm, and includes a check at the top to emphasize the unique bronze sundial. IN RIVES TOWNSHIP, MICHIGAN A massive memorial -8-ft.-high and weighing over four tons was produced by KEYSTONE MEMORIALS, INC., to honor all from Rives Township, Michigan, who served in the military during wars beginning with World War I. The names of hundreds of veterans engraved in thousands of frosted outline letters -are on the front of the all-polished, "Cherry Hill Black Granite" monument erected by Jackson Monument Works of nearby Jackson, Michigan. The monument, donated by citizens of the Township and installed in a city park, includes an oval top and a carving of the State of Michigan with a banner-type pointer designating Rives. This carving is between two sandcarved American flags and beneath the slogan: "We Shall Not Forget". AT ATHENS, GEORGIA. Legendary University of Georgia Tennis Coach and Assistant Athletic Director for Public Information Dan Magill was honored recently when tennis facilities at the University were named for him. KEYSTONE MEMORIALS, INC., fabricated a noteworthy sign/memorial which the Elbert County Bulldog Club & Alumni Society donated to the University. The tablet was designed by DESIGN MART, the E.G.A. Associate Member which is a commercial design firm. Keystone Memorials President Tom Oglesby and Design Mart Owner Joe Fernandez are members of the local Bulldog Club Board of Directors who were present in Athens May 17 for the dedication. The memorial, produced from polished "American Black Granite" is 6-ft.-high, and 3-ft., 4-in.-long. It has ridge top, beveled front and back, with flutes to duplicate the roof of the Collegiate Tennis Hall of Fame which houses offices and other facilities for the UGA tennis program. The Seal of the University of Georgia is sand-sculptured in bas relief as part of the top. UGA Athletic Director Vince Dooley praised Elbert Countians "who have supported the University in scholastics and athletics. All alumni and friends of the University - indeed, all Georgians - are in your debt and admire your Granite Industry's skills and craftsmen." Coach Dooley deemed the memorial "most appropriate" to mark the tennis complex honoring Magill who modestly accepted the honor. The monument inscription states that Magill, now retired as Head Tennis Coach, "Spent a lifetime making UGA the mecca of amateur tennis, is the winningest NCAA Division I Coach, father of the NCAA Tennis Tournament, Founder of the Collegiate Tennis Hall of Fame" and numerous other tennis and athletic achievements. Elbert County Bulldog Club Board of Directors were special guests at the Magill Complex dedication and monument unveiling. Participants included, left to right, Coach Dooley, Tom Oglesby of Keystone, Bulldog Club President Hudson Cone, of the E.G.A. staff, Coach Magill, Joe Fernandez of Design Mart. Bulldog Club Past President David Powell, and George Oglesby also of Keystone. ATPADUCAH, KENTUCKY. REPUBLIC-HIGHPOINT-STERLING GRANITE COMPANIES recently produced a ''Pretoria Black Granite" memorial commemorating Dr. D.H. Anderson who rose from being a Tennessee plowboy to Kentucky's foremost black educator. The monument identifies the new Dr. D.H. Anderson Technical Building at the West Kentucky State Vocational-Technical School at Paducah. The pioneer black educator founded the college in the early 1900's, personally constructing the first building. By 1938, it was the third largest black vocational school in the U.S. The monument was erected by Beasley Monument Company of Paducah, whose owner, Walter Beasley, was a member of the Monument Committee coordinating the project. The Beasley firm first preserved, then donated worn marble cornerstones from the original campus building and incorporated them in the brick foundation for the new memorial. The one-piece, all-polished, memorial was cleverly-shaped by Republic-Highpoint-Sterling's craftsmen to simulate a three-piece monument. The front surface of the 1-ft., 2-in.-thick tablet is beveled at angles to form three separate panels. Installed on a brick foundation, the building name is inscribed in large letters on the center section, a larger-than-life etching of Dr. Anderson is on the left, and on the right, honoring Dr. Anderson's wife, Artelia, is a handheld lantern. Mrs. Anderson would hold a lantern at night and during predawn hours for her husband as he personally constructed the first building for the school. The etchings are by Elberton artist Ann Jenson. E.G.A. Members Produce Attractive Public Memorials AT COLONIAL BEACH, VIRGINIA. An imposing obelisk was recently fabricated by LANDMARK GRANITE COMPANY, INC., to mark the birthplace of President James Monroe The memorial was erected by Montross Monument Service of Montross, Virginia, at the site near Colonial Beach. No less than three of the first five U.S. Presidents were from this historic Northern Neck area of Virginia near the Potomac River. Landmark General Manager John Fernandez said the Monroe Birthplace memorial consists of three, steeled-finish, "Twilite Blue Granite" upright pieces standing 15-ft.­tall and weighing 6,300-lbs. Lettering is on the large plinth which has a decorative scotia. The monument was sponsored by area chapters of the Veterans of Foreign Wars. President Monroe was the fifth U.S. President and is best known for the Monroe Doctrine which declares the Americas no longer subject to European or other foreign colonization. AT MT. CARMEL, TEXAS A simple, yet highly-meaningful memorial commemorating one of the most infamous incidents in the annals of American law enforcement was recently produced by WILES GRANITE COMPANY, INC. Erected by Phipps Memorial of Waco, Texas, the 2-ft., 6-in.-high "Wiles Blue Granite" tablet honors the four U.S. Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms Agents killed during the assault on the Branch Davidian religious cult compound at Mt. Carmel, Texas, on February 28, 1993. Cult Leader David Koresh and most of his followers later died in a fire which destroyed the compound during a lengthy siege by Federal agents. The all-steeled monument is in front of the St. Joseph Catholic Church near the communities of Elk and Mt. Carmel approximately ten miles from Waco, Texas. Phipps Memorial designed the tablet which was provided at cost for the citizens of the Elk Community. The memorial was dedicated in an emotion-filled ceremony attended by families and colleagues of the slain officers. The event attracted widespread publicity for Phipps Memorial which was subsequently honored for the project by the Monument Builders of the Southwest. Ironically, Phipps Memorial Owner Joe Phipps owned property overlooking the Davidian Compound. Apex Crafts Impressive Cemetery Feature An "Enterprise Blue Granite" cemetery feature - majestic in both design, workmanship, and size - was recently crafted by APEX GRANITE COMPANY, INC. The feature, approximately 5-ft.-high, consists of a steeled-finished Open-Bible on a pedestal; it is an imposing element in the Ketron Memorial Gardens at Lebanon, Tennessee. Julian Burroughs owner of B & C Monument Company of Bristol, Tennessee, designed and installed the feature. Apex Owner Horace Harper said the back of the horizontal tablet, which is pinned and epoxied onto the pedestal, is beveled so that it slopes downward similar to a Bible on a stand. The tablet's sides have scotias and the surface curves upward and down to a slot in the center to complete the open book effect. The 23rd Psalm is engraved on the mammoth tablet which is 5-ft.-long, 2-ft., 6-in.­wide and 1-ft.-thick. The pedestal is 3-ft., 2-in. long and 3-ft., 4-in. high. Mr. Harper added that extensive precision sawing and hand tooling was required to shape and fabricate the open-book tablet panel. Granite Signs Serve Varying Purposes Highly functional and attractive signs produced by E.G.A. member-firms are becoming increasingly popular all across the U.S. as monument retailers, contractors, architects, and others are realizing that Elberton's matchless stone craftsmen can shape everlasting granite into any shape or form possible. The signs on this page illustrate that eye-catching granite signs are suitable for a wide variety of purposes. In addition to their appearance of dignity, they require little or no upkeep, will not tip over in strong winds, do not have to be repainted, will not shatter or decay, and are relatively inexpensive when compared to the cost of other sign materials. These designs may be found in E.G.A.'s Reference Loan Notebook of Granite Signs. AT GEORGIA COURTHOUSE This distinctive and highly-functional "Blue Dawn Gray Granite" sign was produced by REPUBLIC-HIGHPOINT-STERLING GRANITE COMPANIES for placement at the Athens-Clarke County Courthouse in nearby Athens. The sign features a polished border beveled 45-degrees to a 1-in.­deep, stippled-finish background. The large sign is 5-ft., 10-in.-long and 5-ft., 6-in.-high. It is tastefully-landscaped and is spotlighted at night. The sign is in front of the flagpole near the courthouse front entrance. AT CHEROKEE INDIAN RESERVATION. KEYSTONE MEMORIALS, INC., recently manufactured a "Topaz Blue Granite" sign to denote the location of the Veterans Park on the Cherokee Indian Reservation at Cherokee, North Carolina. The large monument manufacturing firm also produced a unique granite penset for Jonathan Taylor, Chief of the Eastern Band of the Cherokee Nation. The sign includes carvings of both male and female Cherokee warriors in U.S. military combat uniforms and includes the insignias of the five military service branches between the emblems of the Eastern Band of the Cherokee Nation on the left and the U.S. Defense Department on the right. The sign includes the Cherokee name in large stylized script lettering 10-in.-high. It is 9-ft.-4-in.­long and 4-ft., 10-in. high atop an 18-in.-high foundation. The sign is polished on front and back. The sign was designed by well-known Granite Industry Sales Representative Walter McNeely who also helped design and coor­dinate the installation of the multi-pieced Cherokee Veterans Memorial dedicated on Veterans Day, November 11, 1993. Mr. McNeely is part Cherokee. The Veterans Memorial, also produced by Keystone, was featured in the Spring 1994 GRANITEER. Keystone also fabricated the penset presented by Mr. McNeely to Chief Taylor. The "Topaz Blue Granite" penset is a duplicate of a similar set presented to President Jimmy Carter in 1976... and a penset later given to West German Chancellor Helmut Schmidtt. The penset features the Cherokee Eastern Band emblem and measures 16-in. in length and 8-in. in width. It has all-polished pencil­round edges sloping from 2 1/2-in. on the front clown to 1 3/4 in. on the back. Chief Taylor's name is on the front. This sign identifies the Cherokee Indian Veterans Memorial. Star Granite Begins Sandblast Operations. This is an overview of Star Granite's new sandblast engraving department, including two large steel rooms and necessary equipment. Star Granite's new sandblast system includes a Kaeser air compressor, left, and Torit dust collector. Rusty Adams, President of STAR GRANITE COMPANY, INC., reported that a Sandblast Engraving Department has been established at his monument finishing plant. Star is also a major producer of granite bases for bronze memorials. Mr. Adams said the new equipment includes two steel sandblast rooms equipped with a Superblast system, produced by Empire Abrasive Company, which is sold in Elberton by E.G.A. Sustaining Member GRANITE SALES & SUPPLY CORPORATION. The system includes large metal shape carving and blasting rooms -both with rubber-lined interiors for quieter, more efficient operation. The system is also equipped with an air dryer for moisture removal. Grit flow in the Superblast system is metered and controlled al the nozzle -rather than at the lank -requiring less maintenance. The Superblast system utilizes a Torit downflow dust collector, a cartridge-type system in which the downward, gravity flow of air provides higher filtration with less energy than conventional collectors. The unit has air jet pulse back-cleaning system to cleanse filter cartridges. The other major component is a Kaser 280 CFM air compressor which Mr. Adams said is "very energy efficient". Matt Wilson operates the new vertical band saw at his dad's machining firm. This new lathe is one of four in operation at the Wilson firm. New Equipment At Wilson Industrial Electric. Several new equipment items have been installed at the WILSON INDUSTRIAL ELECTRIC, INC., service center on the Tusten Street Bypass one mile north of Elberton. The company is an E.G.A. Sustaining Member and a major manufacturer of diamond sawing and automatic polishing equipment for the Granite Industry. Owner Ray Wilson said the new equipment includes a lathe, drill press, vertical band saw, and iron-working mill. He said the new lathe will primarily be used to mill shafts, housings, and other machinery parts. The unit brings to four the number of heavy-duty lathes in operation at Wilson. The drill press is used to drill holes in steel; the band saw to cut sheet metal. Mr. Wilson added that his son, Matt, who recently joined the company, is learning to operate the new equipment. CAD Systems Continue To Flourish. AT GRIMES BROTHERS GRANITE COMPANY, INC. Charles Grimes, Co-owner of GRIMES BROTHERS GRANITE COMPANY, INC., a quarrying and monument finishing firm, says his MONU-CAD system "does an excellent, excellent job." Mr. Grimes, who personally operates the machine in his den al home, figures he has digitized no less than 786 designs in his system. "The machine allows me lo use a lot of different lettering styles," said Mr. Grimes. "It has made a pretty good draftsperson out of me. The quality of my company's work has improved one-thousand percent." The system includes a computer and software program, a scanner to enter designs in the system, and a plotter producing full­size drawings and pre-cut, sandblast-ready stencil. The unit was purchased with the assistance of Harold Carter of ELBERTON OFFICE EQUIPMENT & SUPPLIES, INC., an E.G.A. Associate Member which markets MONU-CAD systems. Charles Grimes enters a design in his CAD system. AT NORTH EAST GRANITE QUARRY, INC. NORTH EAST GRANITE QUARRY, INC., is another E.G.A. member-firm recently adding a MONU-CAD system purchased through E.G.A. Associate Member ELBERTON OFFICE EQUIPMENT & SUPPLIES, INC. Debbie Stone, Co-owner of the monument firm, said the system has a unique feature not found on some models. She explained that her unit has a rotating head on the plotter which allows the blade automatically cutting stencil to cut in any direc­tion. The unit is also equipped with standard features, such as a scanner, plotter, and computer and software programs. North East Quarry, Inc., is jointly owned by Ms. Stone and her brother, Tim Huguley. Tim's wife, Tammy, operates the CAD. The company, located on Highway 72 in Madison County ten miles west of Elberton, primarily produces 2 X 1-ft. markers or 12 X 18-in. markers for the Veterans Administration. Other new major equipment items at the firm include a new overhead bridge crane and a suction crane. The suction crane will pick up large granite slabs, or one marker with each of its four suction cups. The bridge crane will lift loads up to 2,500-pounds. Tammy Huguley operates her company's new CAD system. Mccannon Adds Second Automatic Burner At Quarry Allen McCannon, President of McCAN ON GRANITE COMPANY, INC., reported that his quarrying and monument manufacturing firm has added a second automatic oxygen burner at the firm's "Crystal Blue Granite" Quarry o 2. The new burner is fully-automatic and computer-operated. The computer controls all phases of operation, including downfeed rates. It also provides digital printouts indicating operational procedures, thus enabling more efficient operation. The system was designed by Mr. McCannon and built in the com­pany machine shop. It is the first oxygen burner in Elberton to be fully automated. The unit uses a 110-volt electric motor and hydraulics for downfeed and traversing functions along its 23-ft. track. It is equipped with a sensor-activated cutoff device in case of malfunction. Sweet City Quarry Expansion. Willie Simmons, of SWEET CITY QUARRIES, INC., announced a major expansion of the former "Allen Blue Granite" Quarry which he and his sons, Mike and Bill, purchased in 1989. Mr. Simmons said that overburden has been cleared from a two­acre tract on the East side of the main quarry. "We are enthusiastic about this expansion," said Mr. Simmons. "Obviously we have invested a sizeable amount in equipment and excavation and the removal of overburden and debris. We have good reason to believe that there is an abundance of high-quality, dark blue granite in this deposit, based on blocks we have already quarried," he added. He said improvements include the building of a major access road to the expansion site. Equipment additions include a mobile crane, air compressor, bulldozer, front end loader, backhoe, and track and liner drills. Mr. Simmons noted that granite from the new site will be used by his family's companion firm, SUPREME GRANITE COMPANY, INC., and sold to other manufacturers. Sweet City Quarries also operates the "Royal Blue Granite" Quarry. Automatic Polisher At Lexington Blue The latest E.G.A. member-firm to install an automatic polishing system is LEXINGTON BLUE GRANITE COMPANY, INC. This new polishing equipment, manufactured by WILSON INDUSTRIAL ELECTRIC, INC., an E.G.A. Sustaining Member which produces diamond sawing and automatic polishing machinery, is unique. It features two individual gantry polishing units mounted on 69-ft.-long tracks. "It gives us two polishers in one and doubles our capacity to produce polished slabs," said Lexington Blue President Ricky Griggs. Darica Gets New Trailers, Expands Territory Five new, 48-ft.-long trailers have been added to the tractor-trailer fleet at DARICA TRUCKING COMPANY, INC., announced Ricky Willis, First Vice President. He said the trailers are state-of-the-art units which have air-ride suspensions and spread axles for better load cushion and distribution. They also have aluminum floors, making them lightweight, but have heavy-duty, steel main beams for load support. Mr. Willis also reported that his granite-hauling firm is expanding service into the states of Minnesota, Nebraska, North Dakota, South Dakota, Wisconsin, Iowa, and Colorado. Anyone interested can call Darica's office for rates. Ricky Willis, left, and his brother, Craig, who operate Darica Trucking Company, stand beside three of the new trailer units. Young People Join Parents At E.G.A. Firms An encouraging trend within the Elberton Granite Industry has been an influx of a "younger generation" into management and even ownership of E.G.A. member-firms. In many instances, these young people are the sons and daughters of existing company owners who have recognized the opportunities in Elberton's growing granite industry. The following stories report on a few of the most recent young men and women to join in the operation of Elberton Granite Industry firms. AT MOTES MONUMENT SALES John Motes, left, the son of MOTES MONUMENT SALES, INC., Owner Nelson Motes, right, and his wife, Gaston, has joined in the management of their monument finishing firm. A recent graduate of Elbert County Comprehensive High School, John is learning all aspects of production. He has worked part-time at the company for the past several years. At E.C.C.H.S., John was a member of the track team, the Vocational Industrial Clubs of America, the Distributive Education Clubs of America, and participated in numerous other activities. He attends the First United Methodist Church in nearby Hartwell. AT QUALITY MONUMENT SALES Angie Rhodes, shown with her father, Butch Rhodes, is working with her father and mother, Kay, at QUALITY MONUMENT SALES, INC. during summers and after school. Angie is working in book­keeping, computer operations, and doing general office work at Quality. She is a Junior at Elbert County Comprehensive High School where she is a member of the Majorette Corps. She is a member of the Eliam United Methodist Church and participates in youth activities at the church. AT WILSON INDUSTRIAL ELECTRIC Matt Wilson and his sister, Melissa, are working with their father, Ray Wilson, and stepmother, Kathy, at WILSO INDUSTRIAL ELECTRIC, INC. Matt, who majored in art at the University of Georgia, is involved in structural drawings, specifications, and dimensions at the Granite Industry equipment fabrication company. He is also working in parts procurement and equipment manufacturing. Matt, is an outdoorsman, and is an avid hunter. Melissa, an electronics specialist who says she was taught electronics by her dad, is constructing equipment control panels for her father. She hopes to assume more management responsibilities for the company in the future. She formerly attended Emmanual College at Franklin Springs, Georgia. An outdoorswoman, she enjoys camping and fishing, and also drawing and painting. Veteran Granite Industry Employees Honored. AT APEX GRANITE COMPANY, INC. Horace Harper, President of APEX GRANITE COMPANY, INC., recently presented a handsome wristwatch to retiring employee Jim Joe Martin who was Foreman of the monument finishing firm's Breakout Department for 21 years. "We hate to see Jim go, but all of us at Apex wish him the very best in his retirement," said Mr. Harper. "He was a conscientious and dedicated member of our staff and we will miss him." Mr. Martin had a 48-year career in the Elberton Granite Industry, beginning work at the age of 17. He was with Apex 31 years. "I began with the company when it was a small operation and have watched it grow to what it is today," said an appreciative Mr. Martin. "I just hope I have contributed to its success. I have really enjoyed my years with the company and had a good relationship with Mr. Harper and his family." Mr. Martin said he doesn't "plan to sit in a rocking chair. I'm going to keep active." His son, Chuck, also formerly worked for Apex and is the owner of MARTIN GRANITE COMPANY. A daughter, Mrs. Marie Guyton, is a monument retailer in Florence, Alabama. Horace Harper, left, presents a wristwatch to Jim Joe Martin and wishes him well in his retirement. AT STAR GRANITE COMPANY, INC. The STAR GRANITE COMPANY, INC., Pre-Fourth of July Barbecue and Steak Cookout for employees was an extra-special occasion this year, for a long-time and highly-respected staff member, F.G. Grimes, was honored for his 29 years with the company. Star Owner Rusty Adams best expressed the feelings of Mr. Grimes' fellow workers at Star: "We love you F.G. You have been an inspiration to those of us who have known you and worked with you so many years. You have been a faithful and dedicated colleague and friend to us all." Following this praise, Mr. Grimes was presented with a two-tiered cake, a large-screen color TV set from the company, and a wide range of fishing and recreational items given by fellow employees. "I would like 10 thank all of you," said an obviously-moved Mr. Grimes. "The Lord was with me all these years. I would like to say, especially to you young folks, or anyone who thinks you can't make it - go with the Lord, work hard and do your job and you will be okay. I want to thank all of you who stood by me all these years." Mr. Grimes operated a crane and worked in the Crating Department most of his career at Star. His son, Doug, is a Shipping Clerk with the company. Plant Foreman Gary Dixon, left, F.G. Grimes, his son, Doug, and Star President Rusty Adams admire the many gifts Mr. Grimes received at the company picnic. AT KEYSTONE MEMORIALS, INC. MELANIE RICE, the daughter of Elaine Rice, Office Manager at KEYSTONE MEMORIALS, INC., is working on the office staff at the large monument manufacturing firm. She is entering orders in the company's computer system and is an assistant receptionist. A graduate of Elbert County Comprehensive High School this past Spring, Melanie is also attending the Athens Area Technical Institute where she is majoring in Physical Therapy. Youth Brings Double Honors To Granite Firm. Jarrett Franklin and his grandfather, Mattox Bradford, the OCT Employer of the Year. The honor was bestowed after Jarrett submitted an essay describing Mattox's qualities at an employer. Granite Lab Instructor Bill Scott and Jarrett display some of the granite items he skillfully produced in the Lab's manufacturing competition. Jarrett Franklin, the son of SWIFT SUPPLY COMPANY, INC., Co­owner Merrill Franklin and the grandson of BRADFORD GRANITE COMPANY, INC., Owner Mattox Bradford, has brought community recognition and honor to his family and the companies they own. Jarrett has been employed part-time by his grandfather for the past seven years and before he graduated from Elbert County Comprehensive High School in May, he successfully nominated his grandfather as the Diversified Cooperative Training (DCT) Employer of the Year. Jarrett was also winner of the ECCHS Granite Lab's Granite Manufacturing Contest. DCT is a work-study program in which students earn school credits by satisfactorily working part-time. Jarrett worked at Bradford Granite as a OCT student. Mrs. Tammy Hall, OCT Coordinator, commended Jarrett for his exceptional work habits and praised the encouragement he received from his family. "Employer - Friend" Mr. Bradford, the father of Jarrett's mother, Ellen Franklin, was selected as Employer of the Year after Jarrett submitted a lengthy essay describing the many traits and qualities which makes Mr. Bradford "Not just a grandfather or employer, but a friend, (who) is the kind of person which will stop whatever he is doing to help you. He cares and understands everybody's feelings. There is not another person in the world who could compare to him. Sometimes, I feel that he is no older than I am." Mr. Bradford is widely admired and respected in the Granite Industry as a craftsman and a businessman who has successfully operated his family-oriented monument finishing company despite battling a debilitating illness for the past several years. Jarrett, who is now working full-time and learning all phases of monument production, plans to attend the Athens Area Technical Institute and major in Business Management. Jarrett's other honor, being named the Granite Lab's Manufacturing Contest Winner, involved competition with other select Granite Lab students. He successfully sawed granite items from a block, polished the granite, sketched layouts, cut stencil, and artistically sandblast-engraved granite items. Granite Lab Instructor Bill Scott supervised the competition and selected the winners. Granite was donated by HARMONY BLUE GRANITE COMPANY, INC. WILLIAM BREWER TATE William Brewer Tate, 59, a member of one of the Elberton Granite Industry's pioneer families, died Thursday, August 4, 1994, of an apparent heart attack. Mr. Tate was the son of the late Peter M. and Mattie C. Tate, owners of the former Ponderosa Granite Company. He assisted his parents in the management of the firm for a number of years before starting his own business, Tate Granite Company. Mr. Tate was a member of the Elberton First United Methodist Church, was a veteran of the U.S. Air Force, and was a member of the Elberton Elks Lodge where he was a Past Exalted Ruler. He was also a member of the Elberton Moose Club, and Pulliam-Burton Post 5456 Veterans of Foreign Wars. Survivors include his widow, Dot Ashworth Tate of the home; and two sons, Marty and Tripp Tate, both of Elberton, and two grandchildren. The funeral was held at the Elberton First United Methodist Church, Saturday, August 6, followed by interment in Forest Hills Memorial Park. Narrator Alan Rogers, left, and Producer George Rodrigues, second from right, direct George Wade who describes various types of Granite Industry tools as camerawoman Laura Kissel films. "All Quiet On The Set!" is the rule as Wade Tool becomes a sound stage for the GPTV production George Wade, right, is hammering a piece of red-hot steel just taken from his blazing forge. Well-known Elberton Granite Industry blacksmith and equipment fabricator George Wade and his family-operated company, WADE TOOL INC., an E.G.A. Sustaining Member, are scheduled to be featured in a lengthy TV documentary. The 10-part series, to be entitled "Forge and Anvil - American Blacksmithing" - is tentatively scheduled to be aired in 1995 on the Georgia Public Television Network and possibly later on National PTV. A camera and sound crew headed by Producer/Director George Rodrigues spent several hours at Wade Tool, located near Elberton on Georgia Highway 72 East. They filmed Mr. Wade and his son, Russ, using a coal forge and blower to produce drill bits and other tools used in the granite quarrying and monument manufacturing processes. Family Tradition Alan Rogers, the on-camera host for the production, interviewed Mr. Wade at length about his skills acquired in 31 years as a black­smith for the Granite Industry. Mr. Wade explained that black­smithing is a family tradition since his father, the late Charlie Wade, moved from Stone Mountain to Elberton decades ago to work in the Granite Industry. Mr. Wade also has a brother, Wayne, who is a blacksmith, and George's sons, Mark, Stacey, and Russ, have all worked with him. Russ is currently employed with the firm. While the TV crew was learning blacksmithing, George and Russ were learning about the seemingly endless repetition required for a few seconds to be telecast - as scene-after-scene was filmed and refilmed as crews searched for the best lighting, the right words and voice inflections, camera angles, etc., etc. Following the filming sessions at Wade tool, the GPTV crew vis­ited the "Royal Blue Granite" Quarry, operated by SWEET CITY QUARRIES, INC., and the "Pyramid Blue Granite" Quarry, owned by FENDLEY ENTERPRISES, INC., to observe and film the types of tools produced by Mr. Wade. Laura Kissel and her sound crew films quarryman Willie Henry using drill bits, wedges, hammers and other equipment of the type produced by Wade Tool used to split granite blocks. The TV crew filmed at the "Royal Blue Granite· and the "Pyramid Blue Granite" quarries Boyd Crafts Showpiece Conference Room Table A growing non-cemetery use of Elberton Granite is for table tops, lamps, and other decorative, furniture-type, items. An example of this is a "Robin Blue Granite'' table manu­factured by BOYD GRANITE COMPANY, INC., for Hedquist & Associates, a court proceedings reporting firm in Jacksonville, Florida. The granite showpiece, a 6-ft.-long table, is in the firm's conference room. It has a polished top and 1-in., steeled scotias around the edges. It is supported by polished, triangular legs. The president of the prestigious legal firm is Marianne McMichael, the daughter of Wandaleen Boyd Hedquist, a sister to William C. "Bill" Boyd, President of Boyd Granite Company and ROBIN BLUE QUAR­RIES where the granite was quarried. Ms. McMichael is the daughter of John Hedquist, and the granddaughter of the late Herbert Hedquist, a pioneer Elberton Granite District quarryman and founder of the "Hedquist Pink Granite" Quarry. GRANITE CENTER VISITORS, FROM CLEVELAND, OHIO - Prominent Cleveland, Ohio, memorialist Mike Johns, of the Johns-Carabelli Company, and his wife, Nikki, visited the Gran­ite Center recently and were greeted by former E.G.A. Executive Vice Presi­dent Bill Kelly, left, and Executive Vice President Tom Robinson, right. Mr. Kelly and Mr. Johns worked closely together when Mr. Johns was President of the Monument Builders of North America in 1979-80. FROM DOTHAN, ALABAMA - Lisa Walker, far right of WALKER GRANITE COMPANY, INC., and her sons Audey and Collin welcomed friends Mr and Mrs. Rick Trawick and their children Blake and Brittany of Dothan, Alabama, to the Granite Center. While Lisa and Susan Trawick reminisced about their days as college roommates at Troy State University, Troy, Alabama, the group made stops at the Granite Center, the Granite Museum, Walker Gran­ite Company, and area quarries. CHAMPION ATHLETES TOUR GRANITE MUSEUM - The ELBERTON GRANITE MUSEUM & EXHIBIT and the Granite Center are musts for visitors to Northeast Georgia. Recent groups included the U.S. Junior Girls National Rowing Team which used Elbert County's Lake Richard B. Russell to train for the World Junior Championship competition in Munich, Germany DYE GRANITE, INC., Sales Representative Walter McNeely, a rowing enthusiast. helps head the Elbert County Chamber of Commerce Olympic Task Force which convinced the rowing team to train here. International teams are expected to practice on Lake Russell later. The U.S. Junior Team touring the Granite Museum included, kneeling, left to right, Linda Perry, Brittany Cazel, Gretchen Wiese, Darcie Baginski, Vanessa Tavquiero, Jennifer Pulling, stand­ing, Walter McNeely, Shelagh Donohoe, Denni Nessler, Maura Bailey, Kirsten Catanzano, Kristin Grymes, Kari Green and coaches Carol Feeny and Francisco Viacavo. The rowers were from throughout the U.S. IN DAYTONA BEACH, FLORIDA. AT THE FL ORIDA MONUMENT BUILDERS CONVENTION The exotic sand and surf locale of one of America's most popular resort areas, plus a very informative and beneficial program combined for a successful meeting of retailers from the Sunshine State. The program included a review of cemetery sales tactics, sales tax procedures, and a legislative action update. A stellar social event was the E.G.A. Happy Hour, as depicted in the accompany­ing photographs. Angie Rhodes, left, Cale Pruitt, young Jonathon Rhodes and Mr. & Mrs. Butch Rhodes, all of QUALITY MONUMENT SALES. INC.; and Mr. and Mrs. Bill Minozzi of Lakeland. Mr. & Mrs. Fred Menor, left, of Lake Worth, and children, Freda & Rex; Mr. & Mrs. Joe Burns of Perry; Nita Boyd of BOYD GRANITE COMPANY, INC.; Dot Cordell and Jim Menor of Lake Worth; and Nita's husband, Bill Boyd, President of BOYD GRANITE COMPANY, INC. Mr. & Mrs. Ronnie Lovinggood, left, of BICKNELL MANUFACTURING COM­PANY; and Mr. and Mrs. Jim Kamercia of Miami. Gregg Waldron, left, of Kissimmee; Gene Worley of GLOBE GRANITE COMPANY, INC.; Bill Stephenson of Leesburg; and Mike Baldauff of Deland. IN SAN ANTONIO, TEXAS. AT THE MONUMENT BUILDERS OF THE SOUTHWEST CONVENTION Beautiful and historic San Antonio was the site of this group's 50th Anniversary Convention. Nostalgia reigned as the membership recounted the many people and events that have contributed to the success of this regional organization. Various presentations dealing with today's issues and trends kept the large crowd's attention. The E.G.A. Happy Hour, which has been a part of all 50 meetings, set the tone for a gala banquet and celebration. Drew Gidden, left, Houston, Texas, and Mr. and Mrs. Horace Harper of APEX GRANITE COMPANY, INC. Pat Wallis, left, of CREATIVE-PREMIER DESIGNS, Sonny Stolz, center, La Grange, Texas, and Jim Schmidt of Conroe, Texas. John Scott, left, Beaumont, Texas, and Mr. and Mrs. Ronnie Lovinggood of BICKNELL MANUFACTURING COMPANY. Mr. and Mrs. Buddy Schnelle, felt, of PURITAN GRANITE COMPANY, INC., Mr. and Mrs. Rudy Garza, Jr. and Rudy Garza, Ill of Harlingen, Texas. Left to right, Mr. and Mrs. Joe Myers and Mr. and Mrs. Mike Coon all of Stock­dale, Texas, Mr. and Mrs. Richard Rucker, RUCKER TRUCKING, INC., and Mr. and Mrs. Joe Phipps, Waco, Texas. Mr. and Mrs. Mark Davis, Palestine, Texas, left, and Mr. and Mrs. Elmer Austin of KEYSTONE MEMORIALS, INC. New M.B.S.W. President Henry Hallman, left and his wife Sheryl of Wills Point, Texas, and Mr. and Mrs. Danny Wiles of WILES GRANITE COMPANY, INC. From left to right, Mr. and Mrs. Jimmie Triska, El Campo, Texas, Adrian Garcia, Mercedes, Texas, Mr. and Mrs. Jimmy Wallis of STANDARD GRANITE COMPANY, and Mr. and Mrs. Rudy Knesek, Wallis, Texas. The colorful Cherokee Indian dancers thrilled the monument builders by having them join in their tribal dance routines. Mr. & Mrs. Jim Bell. left, of Beloit, Kansas; Boadie Anderson, II, of Ada, Oklahoma; Tom Oglesby of KEYSTONE MEMORIALS, INC.; and Janet Clark and Mr. & Mrs. Alan Johnson & son Derek, all of Clay Center, Kansas. BOYD GRANITE COMPANY, INC., Sales Representa­tive David Lovinggood, left, Bud Johnson of Shawnee, Oklahoma; Mr. & Mrs. James Mitchell of Russellville, Arkansas; and Ken Dodds of Ottawa, Kansas. Mr. & Mrs. Don Seymour, left, of Dexter, Missouri; Mr. & Mrs. Bob Nelson, Jr., of SOUTHERN GRANITE COMPANY, INC.; Ken Dodds of Ottawa, Kansas; and Mr. & Mrs. Steve Oliaro and son Joseph, of Lexington. Missouri. AT THE MID-AMERICA MONUMENT BUILDERS CONVENTION An enthusiastic crowd of monument retailers from Arkansas, Kansas, Missouri, and Oklahoma assembled for an interesting program which included a thought-provoking presentation by monument sales expert Charlie Mouser of Vir­ginia. The E.G.A. Happy Hour was a social hit. Those attending were treated to one of the most colorful and unique events ever at a state/regional meeting following the concluding banquet when a group of Cherokee Indians in full regalia presented traditional tribal dances. IN TULSA, OKLAHOMA IN BILOXI, MISSISSIPPI. Shane Worley, left of WORLEY MONUMENT COMPANY, INC. and Bob Landry, Sr., Amite, Louisiana. Front row left to right are Anton Wilbert, Plaquemine, Louisiana, Mr. and Mrs. Jeff Gill, and Debbie McLendon all of Denham Springs, Louisiana. Back row, Jeff Jenkins, left, and Rodney Jenkins of Ville Platte, Louisiana, Mickey Seale, Denham Springs, Louisiana and George Oglesby of KEYSTONE GRANITE COMPANY Mr. and Mrs. Harris Creech, left, Oak Grove, Louisiana, and Buddy Schnelle of PURITAN GRANITE COMPANY, INC. Front row, left to right, Ross Oglesby, Elberton, Georgia, Cole and Chase Brown of Hattiesburg, Mississippi, and Davis and Jesse Pace of Brookhaven, Mississippi. Back row, Tom Oglesby, KEYSTONE MEMORIALS, INC., Mr. and Mrs. Adolph Ingram, Hattiesburg, Mississippi, Lilann Brown, Hattiesburg, Mississippi, and Dave Pace of Brookhaven, Mississippi. Left to right, Mr. and Mrs. Mike Sanders and daughters Mollie, left, and Lacey, right, Winona, Mississippi, Mr. and Mrs. Tom McGarity of HARMONY BLUE GRANITE COMPANY. INC., Mr. and Mrs. Vernon Pairmore and son Drew of Covington, Tennessee. Left to right are Mr. and Mrs. Lyn Oubre, New Iberia, Louisiana, Mr. and Mrs. Russell Redmond, Houma, Louisiana, Mr. and Mrs. Richard Rucker of RUCKER TRUCKING & LEASING, INC., and Deni Ard of Amite, Louisiana. Mr. and Mrs. Percy Songe, left, Morgan City, Louisiana, Iris Fernandez and Mr. and Mrs. Vince Fernandez and son Alex, of LANDMARK GRANITE COMPANY, INC., Mr. and Mrs. Bob Landry, Sr., and Mr. and Mrs. Bobby Landry, Jr., all of Amite, Louisiana. AT LOUISIANA-MISSISSIPPI MONUMENT BUILDERS CONVENTION Booming Biloxi, with its new attraction, riverboat gambling, was the site of the 1994 meeting tor memorialists from Louisiana and Mississippi. While games of chance were an enjoyable pastime tor many, the Convention Program was filled with sure winners as speakers addressed the art of selling and presented techniques to upgrade the sale. The E.G.A. Happy Hour set the stage for a delicious banquet featuring Gulf Coast delicacies. Mr. and Mrs. Lyn Oubre of New Iberia, Louisiana, and Jimmy Brown of Bicknell Manufacturing Company. IN TOLEDO, OHIO. AT THE MONUMENT BUILDERS OF OHIO CONVENTION -This fun-loving group traditionally blends outdoor recreation with serious business at their conventions and this year was no different. Meeting at the beautiful Maumee Bay Resort on the shores of Lake Erie, fishing excursions and a golf tournament were offered to participants, as well as a very informative program. A most constructive part of the session involved a lively give-and-take panel discussion between the retailers and representatives from the E.G.A and other wholesale granite producing regions, and the M.B.N.A. A social highlight was the E.G.A. Happy Hour prior to the concluding banquet. BOYD GRANITE COMPANY, INC., Vice President William C. "Happy" Boyd, right, and Sales Representative David Lovinggood showed their Ohio brethren "how it is done" in the convention's golf tournament and a Lake Erie Walleye fishing excursion. David was awarded packages of golf balls for his winning golf score and Happy was given a wall (Walleye?) plaque for landing the largest fish. Mr. & Mrs. Don Rogers, left, of Howard; Mr. & Mrs. Dow Roush of CHILDS & CHILDS GRANITE COMPANY, INC.; Mr. & Mrs. Fred Condon of Versailles; and Tom Ellinger and son, Kyle, of Muncie, Indiana. George Oglesby, left, of KEYSTONE MEMORIALS, INC.; Mr. & Mrs. Steve Ryan of Peebles; Steve Williamson of Marietta; Mr. & Mrs. Bill Faehnle, Mr. & Mrs. Mike Faehnle, and John Faehnle, all of Waterville; and Mr. & Mrs. Eric Fogerty and Larry Morrison of Xenia. Mike Berri, left, of BICKNELL MANUFACTURING COMPANY; Hoppy Boyd of BOYD GRANITE COMPANY, INC.; Mr. & Mrs. Brad Cordell of Ashtabula; and David Lovinggood of Boyd Granite. MEMORIAL MERCHANDISING MATERIALS -(Ed. Note-The GRANITEER periodically features merchandising materials offered by E.G.A. members to retail monument firms. Policies related to distribution or use are set by each company rather than E.G.A. Please contact the firms directly for more information or details regarding the availability of these items.) Design Mart Offers Computer Design Package. Joe and Mike Fernandez of DESIGN MART have developed what they term "the Monument Industry's definitive collection of memorial art for computer application." They say the package includes a set of computer disks containing 92 of Design Mart's most popular design components from memorials featured in their exclusive brochures and design books. With the carving components at their disposal, memorialists may use the computer to create virtually any D-Mart design with the same high quality artistic representation shown in their popular brochures and books. The components are available in EPS, DXF, Al, or DWG files compatible with most CAD illustration systems. Mike Fernandez said the disks are economical because they can eliminate lengthy, and often unproductive, searches for carving illustrations, or the tedious process of creating illustrations from poor instructions or bad reproductions. The new package contains the disks in a protective sleeve, a compact one-page directory of file names and descriptive titles of all files; an extended directory of file names with graphic representations of each file; and 8 1/2 x 11 black-and-white prints of the entire collection of memorial symbols to show someone enlargements of the carving detaiI. The collection includes a wide range of traditional, contemporary, Catholic and Hebrew symbols. The entire collection is stored in a handy special notebook. Anyone interested in further information should contact Design Mart at P. 0. Box 56, Elberton, Georgia 30635. Signs, Veterans Memorial Folders-From E.G.A. Members. The two folders depicted in full color on the opposite page are among the latest sales and merchandising materials developed by E.G.A. to assist members and their customers to better market granite products. The folders depict two of the most popular non-cemetery usage items... granite signs and veterans memorials. For the past several years, E.G.A.'S REFERENCE LOAN NOTEBOOK SERIES has lent valuable assistance to monument retail­ers and others as a handy source for sign and veterans memorial design ideas. The thirteen full-color signs and nine veterans memorials in each of the folders were care­fully selected to present attractive, varying styles of granite design. The brochures are not intended to replace the Loan Notebooks. Indeed, the folders can be utilized in concert with the Notebooks or used to introduce design ideas to individuals or committees. Unlike most of E.G.A.'s other marketing materials, the sign and veterans memorial folders are available only from E.G.A. Mem­ber-Firms - and not directly from E.G.A. Per­sons interested in obtaining the very latest marketing tool in what is proving to be a very opportune - and lucrative - field for granite sales, should contact their E.G.A. granite suppliers as soon as possible to obtain copies of these folders. NOW AVAILABLE ONLY FROM YOUR E.G.A. MANUFACTURER. Contact your E.G.A. granite manufacturer for information about the exciting sales potential in your community for these specialty products and a sample of these new full-color brochures. AGELESS ARTISTRY FROM E.G.A. MEMBER-FIRMS DOWNTOWN DISPLAY