No matter how long it has been it is always good to see family! As I write this, I have just returned from the Southern Monument Builders & Mid-America Monument Builders convention in Durant Oklahoma. It has been two years since I last saw some of these fine folks that I consider family. There was a lot of excitement from everyone there, and it was good to be setting up the EGA display booth in anticipation of greeting old friends again. I was a bit apprehensive as the convention started, it was almost like starting a new job and meeting new people. However, my apprehension quickly turned, as we all picked back up again right were we left off two years ago. There were plenty of questions on both sides, about how everyone was holding up after the pandemic shutdown from last year. It is obvious that our industry as well as other industries throughout the country have all been affected by the events of this last year. I was prepared for the questions I was sure would be asked about what the current situation of quarrying and production was in Elberton. As I gave my EGA report during one of the breakout sessions, I was hopeful that a mob was not going to rush the stage, demanding to know where their orders were, and then tar and feathering me when I didn’t have a suitable answer. Luckily, none of that happened. Instead, we had positive discussions on the current situation of the industry and the future as we move forward. It was good to be able to listen to our retail customers and hear what issues were affecting them the most, but at the same time, it was good to be able to talk with them about what is happening here in Elberton The EGA and its members understand the situation we are currently facing here in Elberton. The backlogs, the shipping issues, the limited supply of certain items and finally, labor issues. All this has hit us so quickly and without warning, there was no time to prepare. That is certainly not how we like to do business. We empathize with our retail customers in their need to work with their customers in getting a monument placed during this difficult time. We have been working with some of our retail customers for longer than 50 years now, supplying them with beautiful granite memorials that bring closure to families across this country. Now, not being able to get our retail customers what they need when they need it, that is hard for us to accept. The EGA is looking forward to continuing to represent its members in the upcoming conventions. We are also excited to reconnect with the rest of our retail customer family throughout the country. We hope to continue the dialog of how the EGA and its members can best serve them as we navigate this difficult road together. EGA Hosts Annual Meeting As with June of every year, The Elberton Granite Association hosted its Annual Meeting for all of its member-firms. This day is a special day set aside for the members to come together and not only discuss the yearly business, but also to catch up on friendships and local events. After a time of fellowship and fun, the meeting was called to order by Executive Vice President, Chris Kubas. A time of commemoration and respect was taken for the members that passed in the last year, as names were listed by Trudy King of King’s Monument Company. Marty Walker of Walker Monument Company gave the treasury report, and the newest members of the Granite Association were welcomed. This evening meeting is also used to render a vote for the three newest members of the board for the year of 2021-2022. During this time, Michael Baston of Baston Monuments, Bob Paul, Eagle Granite Company, and Rose Walker of Walker Granite Company were each voted to serve a three-year term. The departing trustees are Nick Fleischer of Eagle Granite Company, Stanley Mills with L&M Granite Company and Marty Walker of Walker Granite Company. We would like to welcome each of our new board members and wish a huge thank you to each of our departing board members. After all of this the remainder of the evening was catered with a delicious meal and hor d’oeuvres. Executive Vice President, Chris Kubas called the meeting to order and executed roll call of membership. Outgoing Treasurer, Marty Walker, Walker Granite Company gave the Treasurer’s Report. Executive Vice President, Chris Kubas presented our newest members, Donovan Dennis with J & D Finishing, LLC and Chapin Phillips with Savannah Valley Quarries, LLC. Welcome to the EGA family. Trudy King of King’s Monument Company, Inc. took a few moments to list the names of 11 members of the association that passed away during this past year. A moment of silence was spent in their honor. It is important to remember those we have lost in life and to continue to improve life as best we can in their stead. It is the hard work of those before us that help us to move forward in today’s world. Listed Alphabetically Geraldine “Jerri” Burton, Burton Monument Company (Current Member) James Larry Edwards, J & L Enterprises (Current Member) George Gaines, Atlas Granite Company (Past Member, President & Trustee) Russell Dean Guest, Stone Creek Granite Company (Former Member) George William Huguley, N. GA Monument Company (Former Member) Don Hulme, Sr., GA International Stone (Former Member) Sara Kantala, Kantala Quarries (Former Member) Allan Eves McGarity, Harmony Blue Granite (Past Member, President & Trustee) William Lanier “Boots Oglesby, Oglesby Granite Company (Former Member) James M. Thomason, Elberton Granite Finishing (Former Member) Thomas “Tommy” Wallis, Standard Granite Company (Current Member) Elberton Granite Association Celebrates 70th Anniversary - 7th Decade of Leaders - March 29, 1951, marks the day that the first formal step toward the creation of The Elberton Granite Association took place at the Chamber of Commerce office in Elberton, Georgia. Jim MacDonald was named Temporary Chairman where forty granite firms were represented. The Trustees were elected, and by-laws were created. George T. Oglesby was chosen to hold the position of the first president of The Association. June 1, 1951, Barton Stephens was named the first General Manager and the very next day on June 2, The Elberton Granite Association held its first full day of operation. The Association started with 32 voting members and 8 associate members among its rosters. Prior to the Elberton Granite Association’s beginning, there were several other attempts to create a firm that would function similar to the EGA. However, it required the vast majority of the industry’s support and enthusiasm to launch such a successful attempt. There have been many changes throughout the 70 years that EGA has served the granite industry and each and every year is a success story to the members that continue to keep it going. The members of The Elberton Granite Association and the men and women that step up to help lead the way are the heart of successful story of the granite industry in Elberton, Georgia. 2011 - 2012 JOHN CAMPBELL PRESIDENT Trustees John Campbell David Giannoni Keith Harper Mark Hill Jerry King Tony Mills George Oglesby, III Greg Ruff Rose Walker MEMBERSHIP: 74 Voting Members 20 Sustaining Members 10 Associate Members 2013 - 2014 JERRY KING PRESIDENT Trustees Keith Harper Jerry King Stanley Mills Tom Oglesby Bob Paul Greg Ruff Bill Simmons Marty Walker Roger Wallace MEMBERSHIP: 62 Voting Members 13 Sustaining Members 11 Associate Members 2017 - 2018 GEORGE OGLESBY, III PRESIDENT Trustees Rick Adams Mark Hill Marty King George Oglesby, III Greg Ruff Randy Smith Rose Walker Roger Wallace Jim Welch MEMBERSHIP: 53 Voting Members 13 Sustaining Members 16 Associate Members 2014 - 2015 TOM OGLESBY PRESIDENT Trustees Michael Baston John Campbell Trudy King Stanley Mills Tom Oglesby Jake Smith Bob Paul Marty Walker Roger Wallace MEMBERSHIP: 60 Voting Members 13 Sustaining Members 12 Associate Members 2018 - 2019 GEORGE OGLESBY, III PRESIDENT Trustees Rick Adams Nick Fleischer Marty King Stanley Mills George Oglesby, III Greg Ruff Randy Smith Marty Walker Roger Wallace MEMBERSHIP: 55 Voting Members 13 Sustaining Members 17 Associate Members 2015 - 2016 TOM OGLESBY PRESIDENT Trustees Michael Baston John Campbell Mark Hill Trudy King Stanley Mills Tom Oglesby Jake Smith Jim Welch Rose Walker MEMBERSHIP: 57 Voting Members 13 Sustaining Members 15 Associate Members 2019 - 2020 ROGER WALLACE PRESIDENT Trustees Nick Fleischer Mark Harper Marty King Stanley Mills Tom Oglesby Greg Ruff Bo Rutherford Marty Walker Roger Wallace MEMBERSHIP: 54 Voting Members 13 Sustaining Members 18 Associate Members 2012 - 2013 GEORGE OGLESBY, III PRESIDENT Trustees David Giannoni Keith Harper Mark Hill Jerry King George Oglesby, III Bob Paul Greg Ruff Marty Walker Roger Wallace MEMBERSHIP: 71 Voting Members 19 Sustaining Members 10 Associate Members 2016 - 2017 TRUDY KING PRESIDENT Trustees Rick Adams Michael Baston John Campbell Mark Hill Trudy King George Oglesby, III Randy Smith Rose Walker Jim Welch MEMBERSHIP: 53 Voting Members 13 Sustaining Members 15 Associate Members 2020 - 2021 NICK FLEISCHER PRESIDENT Trustees Billy Bryant Jason Edwards Nick Fleischer Mark Hill Trudy King Stanley Mills Bo Rutherford Jake Smith Marty Walker MEMBERSHIP: 48 Voting Members 12 Sustaining Members 17 Associate Members GEORGE OGLESBY, GLENN MCGARITY, WILBUR HOOVER, C.S. COOGLER, GEORGE GAINES, JULE MCLANAHAN, PAUL GIANNONI, ROSS BORWN, DAN AMBROSINI, WILLIAM ALLEN, CLARENCE MCLANAHAN, JAMES C. WELCH, FRANK COGGINS, JR. LOUIS COMOLLI, JOHN HERNDON, WILLIAM SINNOTT, JOHN DRENNAN, LLOYD REAGIN, CLIFFORD SMITH, WILLIE SIMMONS, CHESTER ALMOND, ALLAN MCGARITY, HORACE HARPER, TOM OGLESBY, OTIS CHILDS, JR. JOE FENDLEY, BILLY HIX, SHIRLY MCNEELY, MARTY WALKER, ROBERT MIZE, III, GORNDON MCINTOSH, KEITH HARPER, JOHN CAMPBELL, JOHN MCLANAHAN, GEORGE OGLESBY, III, TRUDY KING, JERRY KING, ROGER WALLACE, BOB PAUL, NICK FLEISCHER 70TH ANNIVERSARY. 70 YEARS OF HONORABLE SERVICE Wilson Industrial Electric Continues To Grow Wilson Industrial Electric is an original equipment manufacturer of industrial automated machines for the stone and dimensional materials industries. Wilson Industrial Electric specializes in granite industry heavy machinery such as wire saws, polishers, countertop equipment, conveyors, and turntables. Wilson Industrial is known for their custom-built machinery, and they proudly build each machine right here in Elberton, Georgia. Below are several recent photographs of machines that were custom built and shipped out all over the United States. Wilson continues to grow their production capabilities to allow them to keep the pace with the ever-changing industry and be able to create the exact machine needed along with servicing each. Wilson Industrial Electric continues to show their dedication to the granite industry by growing their inventory of machinery that allows them to equip manufacturers and retailers throughout the country with the tools they need to transform granite and other natural stone into the monuments, buildings, memorials and all of the other purposes natural stone can be used for. The team at Wilson Industrial Electric are dedicated to ensuring that their facility has the top-of-the-line capabilities to ensure their quality continues to lead the pack in their industry. Their dedication to their customer’s needs is impeccable. 3D Hand Held Scanner This 3D scanner was a large purchase made by Wilson Industrial Electric. This handheld scanner is the next generation in wireless 3D scanning. The capabilities allow scanning large-sized objects such as industrial equipment along with large parts that need rebuilt and replaced. This scanner can be a portable tool used on-site to ensure that what needs made can have an exact digital model. The touchscreen panel allows the operator to ensure that the needed specs are precise before leaving the site to head back to the warehouse to begin production. Industrial Plate Roller Wilson Industrial Electric often finds the need to transform sheets of metal into various shapes to assist them in building the machines that furnish granite manufacturer’s plants. This new industrial plate roller is the perfect machine to fit that need. This plate roller has a useful width of 5-foot and has a capacity of 14-gauge steel sheet metal. Its 2-Horsepower 220-volt single phase motor transfers power directly to the driven rollers. A second hydraulic motor controls the movement of the back roll. The operator has the capability to control the movements of the machine via a foot pedal control. 110 Ton, Iron Worker Shearing Machine Wilson Industrial Electric purchased this handy Iron Worker Shearing Machine to achieve the multiple capabilities of creating different shapes of metal. This assists them in making different parts for the machines that are utilized in the granite industry. From creating corner pieces to cutting die shapes and shearing angles, this machine has proven itself over and over in increasing their productivity and production level. This machine has a punching station, flat, angle and bar shearing station along with a notching station. Programmable Tube Bender This programmable Tube Bender is another recent purchase by Wilson Industrial Electric to assist them in creating the parts needed in the machines that are created in their warehouse to service the granite industry. This industrial tubing bender bends 180° in 16 seconds. And its quick-release die system speeds up production. The need to be able to bend piping and tubes are innumerable. Nearly every machine made requires parts that are curved. This machine is the perfect fit for that need. Johnson Machine Shop Builds New Saws JOHNSON MACHINE SHOP created this joint diamond saw for a granite industry customer. A hand-held remote control allows the user to operate the saw from a safe distance. The blade of this joint diamond saw is capable of cutting as deep as 8-inches. The motor features a 20-horsepower motor proving to be an excellent source of strength and power. The carriage beam is constructed of six-inch by six-inch square tubing with wear strips bolted on all sides. These are assembled so that they can be replaced when they become worn. The carriage is constructed of half-inch plate steel and adjustable rollers with an automatic variable D.C. motor. Johnson Machine Shop never fails in providing an array of machines to assist in the granite industry along with many other industries. These companies have come to rely on the craftsmanship Johnson Machine Shop is known for. JOHNSON MACHINE SHOP took the plans for one of their original gantry saws and worked in some custom details to create this massive gantry saw. The design still has a wireless remote to ensure the safety of personnel operating the machine. It also features a 20-horsepower motor to power through the granite blocks and slabs it is required to cut through. The blade of this saw is capable of cutting as deep as 8-inches. The newest features to this saw are the blade stops that allow up to ten cuts to be programmed without operator assisting once they are set up. The table to this machine was created to turn so that cuts can be made from different angles needed for any specific job. Elberton Museum & Exhibit Celebrates Its 40th Anniversary While the Elberton Granite Association celebrated its 70th Anniversary, the Elberton Granite Museum & Exhibit celebrated its 40th Anniversary! The museum has been open to the public since March 27th of 1981. This fabulous exhibit stands to record the history of the granite industry and how the granite industry came to be the so prominent in Elberton, Georgia. Multiple exhibits logging the first quarries and manufacturers can be seen in the museum along with a history of the tools used in the industry. Left to Right: Kendra Jones, Abigail Glaude, Scott Marunich, Tammy Dalton, Tyron Yeargin, Rick Cox, Trish Martinez, Crystal Beebe. Not Pictured: Jamaine Rucker & Annie Hill Visitors from many nations are frequent in Elberton, which prides itself on being one of the most “international small cities” in America. This term comes not only because of its many visitors from abroad engaged in business with EGA member-firms, but also for a sizable group which comes to the area to see the history involved in the granite industry. The museum has been frequented by groups not only from various places throughout the United States but also from places as far as Australia, Brazil, Switzerland, France, England, Japan and Africa just to mention a few. The staff members are always delighted to talk with visitors and find out where they are from and why they decided to visit. Late Executive Vice President Bill Kelly wrote in the summer of 1981 edition of The Elberton Graniteer “Now that the Museum & Exhibit has been successfully launched, we want to make it abundantly clear that it will be an ongoing project ... one to which we will continue to give attention as we improve the exhibits we have and create additional ones to help us do an even better job of relating our history, preserving our traditions, and explaining how we go about the work of quarrying and manufacturing granite monuments in the Elberton area.” This has been an ongoing goal of the EGA. There are hopes that within the next few years the museum will face some upgrades made available through the annual Museum Foundation’s Golf Tournament. EGA Participates in Chamber of Commerce “Lead Elbert Day” The Elberton Granite Association had the honor of participating in the Lead Elbert program this year by hosting a tour of the local granite industry. Lead Elbert is an 8-month leadership development program dedicated to growing and teaching our community leaders. The program focuses on a diverse range of people that are nominated by their peers to participate. The goal of the program is to co-conspire plans and strategies for improving their community. The stated mission is “Empower community members to live out their full potential by giving them the education, resources, and experiences necessary to be effective agents of positive change.” The EGA met with the group at the Elberton Granite Museum where they reviewed a video of the quarrying and production process of the granite industry. The museum is full of history of how the process of manufacturing granite and how far that process has come. The visit to the museum was followed up by a visit to the active quarry, PYRAMID STONE INDUSTRIES. The group witnessed as granite was being unearthed by a burner running in the hole in below them. EGA’s Executive Vice President Kubas explained the process going on below and answered questions about the procedures and safety aspects involved. The visit to the manufacturing plant, EAGLE GRANITE COMPANY, was a big hit with the group. They were able to walk through and witness the workers actually taking the granite blocks and transforming them into polished, beautiful monuments, memorials, and mausoleums. Left to Right: Kendra Jones, Abigail Glaude, Scott Marunich, Tammy Dalton, Tyron Yeargin, Rick Cox, Trish Martinez, Crystal Beabe. Not Pictured: Jamaine Rucker & Annie Hill The 5th Annual Museum Foundation Golf Tournament has moved to Spring of 2022! SPONSORSHIPS ARE AVAILABLE! Hole-In-One Contest • Closest To Pin • Longest Drive Putting Contest • Awards Ceremony & Buffet Sponsor Platinum, Gold & Silver Sponsors • Hole Sponsors Gift Bag Sponsors Visit www.egaonline.com for more information, or contact Matthew Pruitt at 706-283-2551. mpruitt.ega@gmail.com All proceeds of the Elberton Granite Association’s Annual Golf Tournament are used to benefit the renovation and upkeep of the Elberton Granite Museum. More details to come this summer. 2022 sponsorship form. There are several ways for your organization to be part of this unique event. Awards Ceremony & Buffet Sponsor- $1500 (1 Available, First Come-First Serve) 4 Man Team Name on Event Flyer & Event Website Signage & Recognition at Ceremony 10x10 Tent/Canopy area at Clubhouse if desired. Giveaway items, literature, etc. may be distributed from any tent area (Canopy Not Provided) Platinum Sponsor - $1,500 4 Man Team Name on Event Flyer & Event Website Signage on Holes 1, 10, 18, Driving Range, & Putting Green 10x10 Tent/Canopy area on course if desired. Giveaway items, literature, etc. may be distributed from any tent area (Canopy Not Provided) Gold Sponsor- $1,000 4 Man Team Name on Event Flyer & Event Website Signage on Holes 2 and 11 10x10 Tent/Canopy area on course if desired. Giveaway items, literature, etc. may be distributed from any tent area (Canopy Not Provided) Beverage Cart- $800 4 Man Team Signage at Beverage Cart Name on Event Flyer & Event Website Signage & Recognition at Ceremony 10x10 Tent/Canopy area at Clubhouse if desired. Giveaway items, literature, etc. may be distributed from any tent area (Canopy Not Provided) Silver Sponsor- $500 4 Man Team Name on Event Website Signage at Registration Table 10x10 Tent/Canopy area at Clubhouse if desired. Giveaway items, literature, etc. may be distributed from any tent area (Canopy Not Provided) Putting Contest Sponsor- $500 (1 Available, First Come-First Serve) Signage at Putting Green 10x10 Tent/Canopy area at Clubhouse if desired. Giveaway items, literature, etc. may be distributed from any tent area (Canopy Not Provided) Longest Drive Sponsor- $500 (1 Available, First Come-First Serve) Signage at Drive Fairway 10x10 Tent/Canopy area at Clubhouse if desired. Giveaway items, literature, etc. may be distributed from any tent area (Canopy Not Provided) Hole-In-One Challenge Sponsor Call for Pricing (2 Available, First Come-First Serve) Name on Event Flyer & Event Website Prize Item on Event Flyer & Website Prize Item Placed at Hole Challenge for Advertising 10x10 Tent/Canopy area at Clubhouse if desired. Giveaway items, literature, etc. may be distributed from any tent area (Canopy Not Provided) Gift Bag Sponsors We will accept items to be placed in Golfer Gift Bags at your expense Recognition will be given at the awards ceremony Please donate items in increments of 120 each (30 Teams Max = 120 Golfers) Hole Sponsor- $150 Name on Event Website • Signage at 1 Hole Contact Matthew Pruitt at 706-283-2551 or mpruitt.ega@gmail.com for registration or more information on how you could help with sponsorship. The Elberton Granite Association Museum Foundation is a nonprofit 501(c)3 entity. Bobby Mattos, CM of Bras & Mattos Monument Company and Mike Johns, CM of Johns-Carabelli Company will be the guest speakers at this year’s Monument Retailers Course hosted by The Elberton Granite Association. You wont’ want to miss it! Bobby Mattos of Bras & Mattos Monument Company Mike Johns of Johns-Carabelli Company FIVE FULL DAYS OF TRAINING INCLUDING... Setting Techniques • Advertising & Marketing • Pricing EGA Cemetery Planning Services • EGA Certified Memorial Program Computer Graphics & Design • Symbolism • Industry Terminology Quarrying Process Manufacturing Techniques Cleaning Options Networking Start Planning Your Trip Now! DURING THE 5 DAY SESSION WE WILL VISIT A Working Quarry Manufacturing Plants A Mausoleum Plant An Etching Studio For More Information Contact Matthew Pruitt at 706-283-2551 or email mpruitt.ega@gmail.com 2021 EGA Training Institute Registration Please complete and fax to 706-283-6380 or email to frankied@elberton.net A.Q. Stone Welcomes Toni “Boozie” Evans To The Team Elberton Granite Association Associate Member A.Q. Stone Design Company recently welcomed daughter, Toni “Boozi” Evans. Toni became a member of the team October 20, 2020. She also maintains a full-time student status at Piedmont University where she is focusing on Early Childhood Development. Toni fills many roles in the office at A.Q. Stone including working with the accounting, weeding vinyl designs, answering phones and general office work. Toni stated that she enjoys working in the office and is grateful it gives her the flexibility to maintain her school schedule and the work involved in her accomplishing her goals. The Elberton Granite Association would like to send a big welcome to Toni and with her the best of luck in her future endeavors. Retailers, Are you proud of a monument and want to see it spotlighted in the graniteer? Have you done a monument that just stands out amongst all the others? We would like to know about it so that we can spotlight it in one of our Graniteers. Just reach out to Mona at graniteer1@gmail.com! She will get permissions form the member-firm and schedule placement in one of The Graniteer magazines. Bear Creek Mining, LLC Changes Name of Company To Savannah Valley Quarries, LLC Bear Creek Mining, LLC, a company formed in 2018 and established as a member of The Elberton Granite Association in 2021 has made the decision to change their name to Savannah Valley Quarries, LLC. This decision was a long time in the making and finally came to fruition in the past few months. Savannah Valley Quarries started as a subsidiary of Bear Creek Mining before the decision was made to change the name for the whole company. SVQ is owned and operated by Chapin Phillips, Randy Smith & Mike Rutherford. The Elberton Granite Association Adds Monument Books to Their Website! Gone are the days of contacting the EGA office and filling out a loan request to look at past monuments published in The Graniteer. The Elberton Granite Association has been working to add all the monument books that you could once borrow, along with a few new categories to egaonline! We believe this addition will make things easier for retailers and manufacturers both in many regards. If a person or group is interested in having a monument made but want to see what else has been done or get some ideas as to what they like, they only need to log onto our website to view what our fantastic list of members have already created. This gives the customer the ability to see different possibilities of what our members are capable of. The new books are very easy to locate. Simply go to www.egaonline.com and select the “Industry” tab. Under that tab, select “Advertising & Publications”. A list of links will come up taking you to several publications including the monument books. As of this edition of The Graniteer, The Military & War Memorials, First Responders, Public Monuments & the Mausoleums, Columbaria & Niches books have been loaded to the website. Downtown Displays, Cemetery Features and Faith Monuments along with Signs, Planes, Trains & Automobiles and Sports & Hobbies are just a few of the books that are still being created. It is our hope that these books get a lot of use and that they are a useful tool for the granite industry. EGA Welcomes Newest Member-Firm, J & D Finishing Company The Elberton Granite Association would like to welcome to the family the newest Voting-Member, J&D Finishing Company. J&D Finishing has been in business for just over two years. They will be celebrating their third anniversary in October of 2021. The owners of the company are Josh West, Donovan Dennis, Joey Christian and Kevin Webb. These four young men were contacted by Brad Burden to discuss the desire to form a new company that could create special order monuments. They began their work after hours once their normal workdays were completed. They were working between 60 to 65 hours a day to keep up their positions already established in the industry and the process of beginning J&D Finishing. “It’s been a good time and we all love what we do” stated Donovan Dennis when asked about the company. J&D Finishing is fully equipped with a diamond block saw, joint saw, and automatic slab polisher along with several other pieces of equipment. The company offers sandblasting and laser etching. Two of the owners are passionate about sculpting. Kevin Webb enjoys working with raised lettering while Josh West focuses on shape sculpting. While most all colors of granite can be ordered, the company is stocking Savannah Gray, Peerless Blue and Georgia Blue. The owners work closely with several quarries along with other manufacturers to ensure that they maintain a good standing in the industry. Donovan stated that they maintained excellent relationships with their former employers and have their support. Not photographed above is a young man named Jaxon who is shadowing the workers so that he can learn all of the ins and outs of what it takes to form a granite block into the many monuments that come out of it. The company believes training those that have a passion for the industry is vital to ensuring that only the best monuments are created. EGA would like to welcome J & D Finishing and wish the best for the future of their new company. 70 Years of Serving. The Elberton Granite Association. Keeping the American Tradition. Serving the needs of our members and their customers with the tradition of Made In America products for 70 years. The Summer 2021 Downtown Display Twice a year, since the February of 1970, the members of the Elberton Granite Association spend their time and resources to display their works of art for the general public and all the visitors to the “Granite Capital of the World”. 2020 caused a small glitch in the downtown display tradition. However, 2021 has the tradition back on track. The display is located at the corner of North Oliver Street and Elbert Street, right in the center of Elberton, Georgia. The most recent showcase of local talent and resources boasts of all the talent that Elberton has within its workforce, from an intricately shaped cross to shape-carved bands. The exhibit is a tribute to the Elberton granite industry’s master craftsmen who fabricate some of the monument industry’s most appealing memorials. The summer edition of the downtown display features different versions of gray, blue and Bethel White granite along with Georgia Marble Cherokee. Superior Granite Company, Superior Gray Granite Hilcrest Granite Company, Hillcrest Blue Granite Reynolds Marble & Granite Company, Georgia Marble Cherokee Hunter Granite Sales, Inc. Gray Granite Flatwoods Granite, LLC, Flatwoods Blue Granite Quality Monument Sales, Inc., Quality Blue Granite Eagle Granite Company, Bethel White Granite, American Black Granite On the cover of this edition of The Graniteer Magazine is EGA Member-firms, GLASS ART IMAGING and MATTHEW’S GRANITE, a division of Matthews International. The team of members worked together to create not one, but two 9-foot-tall monuments to take center stage in two cemeteries in Connecticut for OM Stone of Hillsboro, Oregon. As everyone knows, the Catholic faith has a close relationship to Mary, the Mother of God. That being said, it should come as no surprise that she would be the theme of these spectacular pieces of art for the Catholic Cemeteries. The bright and vibrant Lady of Guadalupe can be seen from within the cemetery along with from the road. The monument is cut from Everlasting Blue granite and the base consists of three pieces. The top and bottom base are each octagon shaped with rock pitch along each side. The tops of each top and bottom base are polished. The middle base mimics a smaller size of the same octagon shape and is all sawn to offer diversity in the textures of the monument in whole. The beautiful tablet portion of the monument was cut in the shape of an arrowhead and is two sided. The front and back surfaces are polished with sandblasted lettering inside a frosted frame. A beautiful full color rendition of Mary, the Mother of God is etched using Glass Art technology on both front and back of the tablet. The edges of the tablet are all rock pitched. “A couple stopped by as we were finishing the setting and told us that it was the most stunning thing they had ever seen and planned on stopping daily as that is their favorite Saint.” stated George Arnold, owner of Glass Art Imaging. The beauty of these two monuments enhances the entire cemetery. The section we developed had 24 semi private estates surrounding the monument. These were the most expensive graves in the cemetery. In 2 months only 2 remain. Furthermore, sales in this section are climbing at an unprecedented pace in contrast to other new sections we have developed over the years. So not only has this beautiful monument increased the beauty of the section, it has increased the gross revenue of the cemetery considerably. In my opinion when circumstances dictate, a color monument in a section will be a great enhancement to any cemetery operations. We plan on using the Glass Art process on future sections slated for development. - Chris Radlicz, Sales Director of the Catholic Cemeteries Association of the Archdiocese of Hartford. George Arnold, owner of Glass Art Imaging and Tim Bronleewe, of OM Stone spent a cold January day setting the two monuments in place within Sacred Heart Cemetery in Meriden, Connecticut and Mt. St. Benedict Cemetery in Bloomfield, Connecticut. EAGLE GRANTIE COMPANY crafted this stunning mausoleum from Blue Ridge granite for Tomlin Funeral Supply of Cape May Court House, New Jersey. The front of the mausoleum showcases two timeless round Tuscan styled columns with steeled finish. The columns flank a beautiful bronze double door leading to the walk-in resting place of six crypts. Above the doorway rests a modified arch adding a personal flair to the design. This mausoleum is all polished aside from the columns and stunning turned flowerpots that sit along the front steps. The dropwash used around the first step creates interesting angles along the front step showing the expansive things that can be accomplished with imagination and talent when in the designing processes of a project such as this. Eagle Granite Company can always be counted on to blend top of the line granite with the best craftsmanship and artistry that can be offered. Elberton Granite Association’s newest voting-member, J & D FINISHING COMPANY, recently completed this spectacular monument that features hand carved aspects. The monument was made from Jet Black granite. The polished tablet has a hand carved rounded top that flows seamlessly into the intricate design shape of the monument. The center of the monument features hand-carved lines curving inward to allow each end of the monument with the names and etched photographs to stand out from the rest. Flanked along each side are two polished turned vases that sit upon a stately base. The base has a two-inch polished margin with rock pitch along the sides. Donovan with J & D Finishing stated, “we love monuments like this where we can showcase the different talents we have.” Showcasing their talents is exactly what the monument does. The smooth finishing accomplished after hand-carving the monument is spectacular to say the least. This monument can be found at St. Joseph Cemetery in Shreveport, Louisiana. KING’S MONUMENT COMPANY fashioned this family monument of Rib Mountain Granite. The all polished serp top family monument features a check along the top giving a unique shape to the top. The family name is raised within a relief carved panel. The base has beautiful drop wash with a two-inch polished margin before transitioning to rock pitch. The foot of the plot features a double marker with two name panels that match the family marker and a sandblasted bird bath with two birds in the center. This image is a replica of a mosaic piece that the Dann family saw during a trip to Ravenna, Italy. The male dove is guarding the female dove as she drinks from the water basin. King’s Monument did a great job replicating this image from the one the family saw. This beautifully sculpted monument was created by QUALITY MONUMENT SALES, INC. Quality blue granite was chosen to be used. This granite offers a beautiful uniform grain that appears soft and elegant when carved with a steel finish. The serp top shape was altered by adding a round along the corners that a sophisticated touch to the overall appearance. The raised lettering was hand-carved along with the beautifully detailed lilies on each side of the name. The sub base features a graceful scotia that offers an effortless transition from the monument to the base. The base was made to have a two-inch steeled finish with rock pitch finishing the edges. KEYSTONE MEMORIALS, INC. is responsible for the all polished, two-crypt mausoleum for Hope Haven Marble and Granite out of Gonzales, Louisiana. 17,353 pounds of Galaxy Jet Black granite was used to create this beautiful final resting place. A beautiful carved cross sits atop a serp top pediment that features the family name. The large, polished door is adorned by two silver rosettes and displays the family details and epitaph. This mausoleum is located in the Morgan City Cemetery in Morgan City, Louisiana. This stunning memorial was the work of art created by REYNOLDS MARBLE & GRANITE COMPANY. Reynolds was contracted to work on this tribute by Aycock-Richardson Monument Company out of Sumter, South Carolina. Georgia Cherokee Marble was used for the monument as well as the ledger. The monument and ledger both are embellished with special curves and cuts to give it a regal outline. The cap of the monument is adorned with 3 checks to give it a stair step appearance that roughly imitates the cathedral like curve on the inner cut. Two square pedestals continue the cathedral shape, making room for the tall turned vase in the center. The top sub base has a center block shape holding the family name and transitions outward with an ogee curve leading into the second sub base that features a graceful drop wash. The base imitates the bottom sub base with the elegant dropwash sloping downward. Just behind the monument lies a matching ledger and base made from the same marble. The ledger’s edges are adorned with a combination of ogees, checks and rounds. The ledger’s base is made with a gradual drop wash to ensure that water flows freely off of the ledger. Reynolds Marble did a phenomenal job making this memorial. This tribute to a loved life can be found in Brown Cemetery in Panola, South Carolina. It is definitely worthy of the Graniteer. Once again, Reynolds has provided Excellent quality and craftsmanship to Aycock-Richardson Monument Co. - Billy Aycock, of Aycock-Richardson Monument Company This stunning 115,000-pound block style mausoleum was made by GEORGIA MAUSOLEUMS from Keystone Blue granite. The mausoleum can be found in the Historic Oakland Cemetery in the heart of downtown Atlanta, Georgia as seen by the skyscraper in the background. The family chose this old-world style of architecture to ensure that the mausoleum would blend in with the surroundings as though it had been there for more than a hundred years. The customers were given the opportunity to pick out the blocks of granite that would be used in their very unique mausoleum. They were impressed and loved the blocks that had the most character with veining and streaks that offer just the style they were looking for. Two fléches sit on top of the flat roof. Orbs adorn the top of the finials tying together the four corner posts with unity. The orbs of the corner posts along with the fleches and the header were each hand carved by Jesse Hernandez, Owner of Georgia Mausoleums. The columns were each turned using Georgia Mausoleums’ lathe. Two years of planning and working certainly paid off with this beautiful 4-crypt mausoleum. The stunning design and the beautiful craftsmanship will never lose its style. EAGLE GRANITE COMPANY was given the privilege of working on this unique, one-of-a-kind monument for Brown Memorials in Florence, South Carolina. The monument consists of two wing tablets made from Jet Black granite. The wings are polished, and steel finished with rock pitch edges. Each wing was laser etched with photographs. Also made from Jet Black granite is the top base which also features polished and steel finished surfaces. Centered between the two wings is a flower vase plinth made from Blue Ridge granite. The plinth has a steel finish and a core hole drilled to accommodate the flowers. The bottom base is made from Blue Ridge granite as well and is sawn on the top with rock pitch on the edges. KEYSTONE MEMORIALS, inc. worked on this Keystone Blue couple’s monument for Watson Signs and Monuments in College Station, Texas. The monument is embellished with a sandblasted fishing boat on the front just above a rock pitched band that stretches the width of the monument. “The sandblast details were a combination of steeled and bluing to get the colors. We used a heavy outline around the family name panel to give the illusion of an insert or an addition to the stone. The sandblasting was created to create a quilt pattern for the family. Keystone did a phenomenal job of paying attention to detail on this memorial for the family. While the design is not that complicated, the process to steel and blue all of the little details in the quilt pattern is arduous and time consuming. Attention to detail to make sure everything lines up and is repeated 13 additional times from the first is important to making this look correct.” stated Tony Watson of Watson Signs and Monuments. This memorial can be found in Suggs Cemetery outside of Hearne, Texas. This precious monument was cut by River Edge Granite Company from Peerless Blue granite for M&R Granite in Spartanburg, South Carolina and Sculptor Clint Button. The monument features a custom cut top. A steel finish is used throughout the monument and the top of the base. The fine details of the lamb, cross and lily of the valley floral were hand carved after a clay model was done for approval. All carving was done with the use of pneumatic hammer and chisels, with all carving and panel surfaces finished as hand axed. This beautiful memorial can be found in St. John the Baptist Cemetery in Harrison, Ohio. REYNOLDS MARBLE & GRANITE COMPANY created this impressive Georgia Cherokee Marble monument for North Carolina Marble & Granite in Clinton, North Carolina. This family monument features a tall tablet adorned with a sandblasted cross and border lines that mimic the shape of the gothic top. A beautiful turned vase sits upon each side of the monument. The base sets itself apart with a recessed band that goes around all four sides continuing the regal appearance of the monument to the bottom as well as the top. Reynolds Marble did an impeccable job in this memorial’s creation. It can be found in Beaver Dam Baptist Church Cemetery in Shelby, North Carolina. Quality Monument Sales, Inc and A.Q. Stone Design Company teamed up yet again to design and create this local sign for a member of the Rhodes and Floyd family. The sign sits just outside J’s Lasting Impressions Hair Salon on North Oliver Street. The grain of this monument is stunningly consistent and even. The monument is polished on the front and back while the top and sides are rock pitched. The arched top of the monument softens the appearance of the monument beautifully. Nestled just inside the plaza area adjacent to Quincey Douglas Neighborhood Center in Tucson, Arizona the Buffalo Soldiers Monument made by KEYSTONE MEMORIALS, INC. Keystone was contracted to create this beautiful monument by Tucson Marble & Granite. Jenson Etching was used for all of the etched images and text that are displayed on the insets. North American Pink granite was selected for creating this monument due to its ability to withstand the “high temperature summers” in the Arizona area. The trapezoid shape of the cap and the main portion of the monument allowed for all of the different aspects that were featured on each side. A beautiful, polished finish was chosen for the cap and tablet while the base features a polished top and a rock pitch along the sides. It is very important to preserve history for future generations. The purpose of this monument to “educate” the Tucson community about the rich history of the Buffalo Soldiers and their positive impact on defending the nation and settling Southern Arizona and other Western states. The monument highlights the sacrifice of the Buffalo Soldiers and recognizes the hardships they had to endure to overcome their missions. Keystone did a superb job in crafting this monument into what it is today. In Memoriam Geraldine “Jerri” Mills Burton January 4, 1944 - January 19, 2021 Ms. Geraldine “Jerri” Mills Burton, 77, of Hartwell Highway, Elberton, entered into rest on Tuesday, January 19, 2021, at her residence. Jerri was born in Elberton on January 4, 1944, daughter of the late Pete D. Mills and Laura Irene Bailey Mills. She was a lifelong member of Eliam United Methodist Church and a retired secretary from the family business, Burton Monument Company, an EGA member-firm. Ms. Burton was also a member of the Rose M. Ashby Chapter of the Order of the Eastern Star, member of the Ladies’ Organization of Shriners International, member of the Elberton Elks Lodge #1100, a founding member of the Elberton Saddle Club, and a member of the Ladies Auxiliary of the Pulliam-Burton VFW Post 5456. On the cover of this edition of The Graniteer Magazine is EGA Member-firms, GLASS ART IMAGING and MATTHEW’S GRANITE, a division of Matthews International. The team of members worked together to create not one, but two 9-foot-tall monuments to take center stage in two cemeteries in Connecticut for OM Stone of Hillsboro, Oregon. As everyone knows, the Catholic faith has a close relationship to Mary, the Mother of God. That being said, it should come as no surprise that she would be the theme of these spectacular pieces of art for the Catholic Cemeteries. The bright and vibrant Lady of Guadalupe can be seen from within the cemetery along with from the road. The monument is cut from Everlasting Blue granite and the base consists of three pieces. The top and bottom base are each octagon shaped with rock pitch along each side. The tops of each top and bottom base are polished. The middle base mimics a smaller size of the same octagon shape and is all sawn to offer diversity in the textures of the monument in whole. The beautiful tablet portion of the monument was cut in the shape of an arrowhead and is two sided. The front and back surfaces are polished with sandblasted lettering inside a frosted frame. A beautiful full color rendition of Mary, the Mother of God is etched using Glass Art technology on both front and back of the tablet. The edges of the tablet are all rock pitched. “A couple stopped by as we were finishing the setting and told us that it was the most stunning thing they had ever seen and planned on stopping daily as that is their favorite Saint.” stated George Arnold, owner of Glass Art Imaging. Survivors include her sons: Johnny and Janet Burton and Rick Burton and Christy Brown, all of Elberton; adopted son, Michael Hardman of Elberton; grandchildren: Blake Burton, Brad and Julie Burton, and Bailee Burton; great-grandchildren: Liberty, Cadence, Isabella, Ethan, Blakely, and Ruby Grace; and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins. In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by her brothers and sisters-in-law: Wallace and Juanita Mills and Walter and Virginia Mills. Sara Tatum Kantala October 30, 1925 - March 5, 2021 Mrs. Sara Tatum Kantala, 95, passed away on March 5, 2021 at her daughter’s home in Daphne, Alabama. Born in Woodbury, Georgia to the late Webb Tatum, Sr. and Grace Kell Tatum, the family moved to Elberton, Georgia in 1926. She was married to Matthew W. Kantala, Jr. who preceded her in death. Mrs. Kantala was also preceded in death by her brother, Webb Tatum, Jr.; her sister, Betty Jo Tatum Buchanan; her daughter, Carol Kantala Burns; her grandson, Matthew Kantala IV; and great-grandson, Grant Terrell. Surviving are her two children, Matthew (Matt) Kantala III (Ethel) and Carin Kantala (Russ); five grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; and many dear nieces and nephews. Mrs. Kantala was a devoted member of the Elberton First United Methodist Church and active in community affairs. She served on the Elberton City Council for fifteen years, the Salvation Army Advisory Board for over forty years and volunteered for the Elberton Hospital Auxiliary. Mrs. Kantala was co-owner of former EGA member firm, Kantala Quarries. James “Larry” Edwards September 23, 1942 - April 8, 2021 Mr. James ‘Larry’ Edwards, 78, of Athens Highway, Elberton, husband of 52 years to the late Joyce Hope Nelms Edwards, passed away at his residence on Thursday, April 8, 2021, with his daughters at his side. Larry was born on September 23, 1942, son of the late James Archie Edwards and Sara Glenn Vickery Edwards. He, along with his late wife, was owner and operator of J&L Enterprises, a member-firm of the Elberton Granite Association. Mr. Edwards was a veteran having served in the U.S. Army. He is survived by his daughters: Susan and Terry Fortson and Cindy Edwards, all of Elberton; grandchildren: Dalton and Cortney Noggle, Ethan and Jessica Fortson, Savannah Fortson, and Tanner and Luke Mabry; great-grandchildren: Dalton James Noggle, Addisyn Michelle Mabry, Keaton Terrell Fortson, Masen Carter Mize, Madison Faye Messer, and Kasen Jade Holbrook; sister, Brenda Edwards; and numerous nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents and wife, he is preceded in death by his siblings: Marcia Edwards, Linda Edwards, and David Edwards. Entombment was in the family mausoleum at Elmhurst Cemetery in Elberton, Georgia. Thomas E. Wallis September 14, 1937 - May 9, 2021 Thomas Edgus Wallis, 83, passed on May 9, 2021 at St. Mary’s Hospice House surrounded by his immediate family. A native of Elberton, Georgia, Thomas was the husband of Patricia Winchester Wallis, the father of Charles Wallis, and the son of the late Col. John P. and Gladys Wallis. He was predeceased by his brothers John Wallis Jr., George “Butch” Wallis, and sister Margaret Hutchinson. Thomas was a member of Elberton First Baptist Church, a Mason and Shriner, and retired from the Georgia Army National Guard. He was part-owner of, and worked many years at Standard Granite Company and started Creative Designs with his wife, Patricia. Both companies were members of the Elberton Granite Association during his ownership. In addition to his wife, Patricia, and his son, Charles, Thomas is survived by his brother, Jimmy Wallis (and Rochelle). He was the step-father to Mark Crenshaw, Judy Crenshaw Ridgeway, and Ronnie Crenshaw. He and Patricia have nine grandchildren and twenty-one great-grandchildren. A graveside service with military honors was held in Elmhurst Cemetery in Elberton, Georgia. 2021 Upcoming Events - September - School of Hard Rocks Sept 10-12, 2021 Scott Luken Sculpture Studio, Yankton, SD Scott Luken at slsculpture@gmail.com Catholic Cemetery Conference Annual Convention & Exposition September 20-24, 2021 National Doral Hotel, Doral, Florida CCC Staff info@catholiccemeteryconference.org - November - Wisconsin Association of Monument Builders Convention Sept 24-26, 2021 Oshkosh, WI - Best Western Waterfront Hotel and Convention Center, on the Fox River. Contact Greg Mathewson mathewsonmonuments@att.net - October - AICA Annual Meeting Oct 2 - 5, 2021 Menger Hotel, San Antonio, Texas Contact: Jed Hendrickson jed@monuments-aica.com Carolinas/Kentucky/Tennessee Monument Builders Joint Convention Oct. 21 – 23, 2021 Sonesta Nashville Airport Hotel, Nashville, TN Contact: Pam Schultz pschultz@schultzmonument.com - November - EGA Monument Retailers Course Nov 1 - 5, 2021 The Granite Capital of the World Sign up online at www.egaonline.com Contact granite@egaonline.com The Elberton Granite Association is proud of each to its members for all of their accomplishments. Jenson Etching is no different. Time and time again, Jenson is designated with the description “quality, artistic craftsmanship and care” when referring to their renditions of scenes etched onto granite. Jenson was given this very special honor to etch two scenes on the memorial of CeDell Davis for McGee Monuments located in Morrillton, Arkansas. The scene of the left is on the front of the monument while the closeup of CeDell’s hands holding the butter knife is on the back. This artwork was especially important because Mr. Davis was an American blues guitarist and singer. He was most notable for his distinctive style of guitar playing. When he was 10, he suffered from severe polio which gave him little control over his left or right hand. CeDell was unwilling to give up his passion and learned to use his motor skills to the best of his ability, learning to play his guitar with a butter knife. He is a legend in blues and Jenson Etching honored his memory with impeccable quality, artistic craftsmanship and care.