Building Products Digest - May 1999

When Smart Businesses Partner with DMSi

Everything Gets a Little Better, Why? BecauseDMSi has been aror.rnd long enough Lo know l-ro',v Lo make your business thrive. And we knorv that your success depends on proven pre-engineered sofLr.vare products from ern indust.ry leader F'or over 20 years DMSi's r:nique vision has bccn proving that change is gcxrd. Jusl ask any olour over 200 satisfied custorrers. Wherr you're ready to tee iL up with a winning partner give DMSi a call, or visit our web site now at www.dmsi.com. We'll show you ways to improve yoLr business thal aiso might jusl improve your life. You'll see that ,,vhen you partncr with DMSi, Change iS gOOd.

Seruing building V products ret@ilers 8L uholesale distriDutors in I3 Southern st@tes

Building Products Digest

Lompulenzeo m0Ten0l n0n0llng system keeps operotions moving ot mossive distribution center.

ID r-rroaing urr"t

New on-line exchonges ore bottling for subsaibers, os the lumber industry inches into electronic commerce. But is there room in the new medium for troditionol wholesolers?

Moke sure you ond your estimoting softwore vendor ore speoking the some longuoge.

Serving 13 Southern states

PUBLISHER David Cutler (dcutlet@hc.net)

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CONTRIBIITING EDITORS Dwight Cunan, Gage fulcKinney, Earl lt/bore

AD SALES MANAGER Chuck Casey

ART DIRECTOR tr,lartha Emery

STAFFABflST Chas. Balun

CIRCULAilON ALtrumn Schwanke

How to Advertise

Contact our advertlslng o,ffices lor rabs:

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Moisture Content Managgment Improves Profitability in Primary Wood Products 0perations

Moisture Gontent (MGl Management Systems

Managing Moisture

683iCE Moisture Content Management System with Info-Pak@ Plas for Windows NT@ - Measure every board, marking/eliminating any above target MC. Capture and organize every MC reading for analysis, archiving and reports for date/time, species, groups and runs. Shorten kiln schedules, lower target sizes and improve grade recovery for improved profitability throush moisture content manasement.

Moisture Detection

683iCE Moisture Content Detection System - Electro-magnetic wave sensors continuously measure every board. When pre-set MC limits are violated the unacceptable board(s) are marked or dropped out.

Moisture Content (MC) Spot Ghecking Stickered Units

L6l2/L712 Kiln/Drying Management System - This lumber drying management system accurately measures the moisture content of boards deep in stickered units in minutes. The PC compatible solhvare organizes and captures every MC reading enabling you to manage how, when and where large volumes of lumber are dried.

Single Boards

L601-3 Quick Scanning MC Measurement Hand Meter - wagner's best analog hand meter is built for rugged, constant use. It rapidly scans entire boards to a minimum depth of one-inch. Ask about our ful1 line of hand meters for industrial, commercial and consumer applications.

Call for a free feasibility study, to determine the potential payback of a Wagner Moisture Content Management System or for pdces on either Vagner's KilM)rying Management System or one of Wagrer's Moisturrc Content Spot Checking Solutions.

It's Not Tlailer l?ash Any More

Whether you call them trailers, mobile homes or manufactured housing, that segment of the housing market has been undergoing significant changes in the last decade. These developments mean that suppliers need to prepare for new needs and wants by both builders and the consumers who buy them.

The tin can image of yesteryear has been replaced by improved quality and many of the features of stick-built homes. Some manufactured homes boast two stories, attached garages, skylighs, vaulted ceilings, hardwood floors, and cultured marble countertops. By joining additional sections onsite, larger and more conventional configurations replace the look of the traditional rectangle.

It was in the 1970s that builders and the federal government worked together to create national standards that resulted in today's higher quality. That led to Real Estate Investment Trusts investing in upscale manufactured housing communities and greater public acceptance of living in these

new developments with their resort-like features. While the main buyers continue to be young families and retirees, a growing middle-age market is developing. While today's factory-built isn't as cheap as its shabby predecessor, today's units are still priced about 4OVo below comparable site-built homes. The Manufactured Housing Institute estimates that the average 1,5(X) square foot unit sells for a thrifty $43,000 with a land lease of about $250 per month. Construction cost is just under $30 per square foot, about half that of conventional construction.

As owners and renters enjoy better units and more livable surroundings, a new stability has developed. Our industry recognizes that higher quality materials and products are needed for the initial construction of manufactured housing. Our aftermarket suppliers likewise see new opportunities. More likely to stay put, todays' park people are better prospects than ever to purchase more home improvement items than would have been the case even five years ago.

One Stop ShoppinE

Our newest product is pre-stained lumber. It joins an impressive roster of proven moneymakers for you. All grades and sizes of treated and untreated dlmension, plus treated timbers, boards and deck accessories. And we have the trucks to get it to you.

T[e have t]rree modern wood treating facilitles to serve you: Buclorer (Kansas City), Mo., Glenwood and Amity, Ar.

One call gets it all. You can depend on it.

THE LOGISTICS at Home Depot's

I Savannah. Ga.. Imports Distribution Center may sound iimple: shuttle full pallet loads of items such as ceiling fans, from the end of an orderpicking conveyor to a shipping staging area. with all pallet moves orchestrated in response to host computer directives. But considering each hour they're moving up to 150 full pallets plus a like number of partial pallets to as many as 100 shipping lanes, traffic control can get a little complicated.

The DC helps the chain fine-tune the supply chain for imported products. Developing creative logistics capabilities increases access to more unique products worldwide. "We stock upwards of 50,000 different kinds of building materials. home improvement supplies, and lawn and garden products," says spokesman Don Harrison. "The investment in the Import Distribution Center demonstrates our commitment to further improvement on product options for our customers."

The 1.4 million-sq. ft. facility services about 500 stores in the East. Imports include ceiling fans, window blinds, table saws and park benches.

Each hour they're

moving up to 150 full pallets plus a like number of partial pallets to as many as 100 shipping lanes.

Containerized shipments from Europe and the Far East arrive by sea at the Port of Charleston or Savannah Harbor. Some items arrive by air freight.

"Material receiving, incoming product storage and orderpicking activities are handled smoothly using conventional distribution strategy and techniques," explains Marc Schumacher, the facility's maintenance manager. "It's at the shipping end of the supply chain where advanced automation tools are considered imperative to expedite the final distribution step: maintaining a steady stream of merchandise out the door and on its way to our retail stores."

To simplify traffic patterns and remove shipping floor gridlock, Home Depot installed a seven-vehicle Automated Guided Vehicle (AGV) system. Designed and supplied by AGV Products, Charlotte, N.C., the central controller's main element is the TRACE (Traffic Routing AGV Command

Gomputerizedmaterial handling

Executive) system, running under Windows NT on a Hewlett-Packard Pentium computer, with a l7-inch color monitor. Its network interface constantly communicates with Depot's warehouse management system.

The vehicles traverse a one-thirdmile area. Located on one side are six pallet pickup zones, accommodating two pallets each. On the other side, 100 shipping lanes await delivery of the full pallet loads. "Basically," explains Schumacher, "the TRACE system assigns an available AGV to a request for pallet movement, commands the AGV to perform proper sequences of movement to carry out the request, monitors the status of the AGV throughout the process of handling the request, and, very important. prevents vehicles from colliding."

The material handling area has been compartmentalized; Compartment A is for full pallets, Compartment B for stacks of items too big for palletizing, and C for partial or mixed load pallets.

As pallets exit a main conveyor, they are scanned by a stationary bar

code scanner, then advance to the AGV pickup zone. A vehicle is assigned to pick up the two pallets, pickup is confirmed, and the vehicle is sent on its way to either the shipping lanes or the partial pallet drop-off location.

Three stationary RF modems provide constant wireless communication between the vehicles and the TRACE system. By constantly adjusting frequency between the range of 902 and 928MHz, interference from other devices or stray noise is kept to a minimum. Communication is polled so that only one vehicle at a time is communicating, but the system is able to communicate with all vehicles about once every second.

The system performs secondary tasks, such as logging for historical and reporting purposes, performing diagnostics, and reporting system and vehicle malfunctions. Adds Schumacher: "As a bonus. all system maintenance and programming alterations can be performed by our own staff. The time and expense saved by personnel being self-sufficient is obvious."

AUTOMATED Guide Vehicle lleet at rest in the battery charging area awaits either host computer command, or manual operation command from lhe order entry menu.

EACH AGV continuously communicates its status as it travels along the 1,8O0-ft.-long shipping floor.

)-trading lumber

Will electronic commerce squeeze wholesalers out of the chain?

A UCTfON site ebay. bookseller /]l.Amazon.com and other Internet retailers get all the attention. But electronic commerce between businesses is where the action is.

Last year, consumers bought $8 billion in goods over the Internet. Businesses bought an estimated $43 billion. By 2003, over 90Vo of a projected $1.4 trillion in Internet commerce will be business to business.

But with the Internet's ability to conceivably link any buyer with any seller, where does that leave the wholesaler-distributor? Will e-commerce cut out the middle men?

In the forest products industry, the answers may be determined by the success or failure of two electronic exchanges, months-old FpIx, Dallas, Tx., and weeks-old TRI-px, Chicago, Il. Increasingly, business-to-business buyers and sellers are linked by such on-line exchanges-part electronic catalog, part marketplace and part content library to help make purchasing decisions. An exchange can lower transaction costs, especially in fragmented markets where prices are difficult to compare.

And few industries, agree Fnrx and Tlllx representatives, have as repeti-

First Tlade On Hew Exchange

Atlanta, Ga.-based retailer

Jasper Lumber Co., Inc., made the inaugural trade on the electronic exchange Telpx April 5, buying a rail car of SPF 2x4 studs from Vancouver, B.C., mill Riverside Forest Products Ltd.

Retai ler Strober/Haddonfield. Cherry Hill, N.J., made the second trade, acquiring a rail car of 2xl0 hem fir from Crown Pacific, Portland, Or., the first time the two companies had done business together. Strober's Joe Todd notes,

"Talpx gave me the oppornrnity to buy direct from Crown Pacific, something I had not done before. The trade was convenient-I didn't have to write out a P.O."

TALPx's 25 pioneer members represent over 200 locations and combined produce 1.4 billion bd. ft. of lumber and panels and $1.2 billion in retail sales. Members in the sign-up process account for another 2 billion bd. ft. of lumtrer. 300 million sq. ft. of panels and more than $2 billion in retail sales.

tious, time-consuming trading practices as the lumber industry. But while both exchanges streamline the trading process, their approaches are polar opposites.

With Internet-based Te,lpx, suppliers input their offerings and buyers input the product they need, so all matching offerings are displayed (other sellers do not have access to competitors' offerings and prices). Buyers can then enter a bid on an offering and the seller has 30 minutes to accept or decline the offer. Accepting a bid automatically generates a purchase order.

Currently, all buyers on the new service are contractor-oriented lumber yards and all sellers are mills (although treaters and others eventually may join). One feature is that the system can hook up companies that have never done business together before, as evidenced by the second trade ever on Tar-px (see story at left).

Talpx's Richard Haddad admits that his service competes with traditional wholesalers, but only for straight load commodity orders. Wholesalers, he says, will still be looked to for mixed loads and other type orders.

"We are plain vanilla right now," Haddad says. "Simplicity is key for us-we need to start simple and make

this work. Therefore, we are strictly focused on straight car and truck loads of lumber and panels. Our members will drive where and how we grow and expand the exchange."

In time, Tlt"px will expand into types of orders. Says Haddad: "We want to be the Nesoeq of the forest products industry."

The aim of Fex, on the other hand, is to improve, not uproot, current forest products trading and maintain the relationships of the business. As a result, wholesalers currently participate on the system.

"When you got a fax machine, you still kept your phone," explains FrIx ceo Chris O'Neill. "Some things are better done by phone, others by fax. It's the same with Fprx. It's a digital communications system."

In designing FpIx, O'Neill says, "we addressed the institution. We wanted to support one-to-one business." As such, trading is only between established partners who have already set up credit procedures, preserving individual relationships. Conversely, Tepx, for a fee, guruantees all trades, so all qualified buyers and sellers can roam the system in search of matches.

Since FpIx debuted six months ago, the company has been building interest in and participation on the system by targeting specific types of partnerships. Pilot programs, for instance, focus on spruce or OSB, so fpix can more easily identify and coordinate natural trading partners.

ls E GommercG A Thrcat Tb Wholesalers..,?

Percent who agredagree strongly

E-commerce willdecrease barriers to entry

E-commerce rryill lead to a consolidation ol the wholesale dishibution industry

E-commerce will eliminate the wholesaler-distributor

Percqnt who flgree/agree strongly

E-commerce will facilitate the collection, utilization and dissemination of inlormation

E-commerce will lead to a changing role for the wholesaler-distributor

E-commerce will lead to more integrated supply chains

F-commerce will lead to strateoic alliances with suppliers and customers

DREF and Arthur Andersen, surveyed wholesaler-distributors indicated that e-commerce will have a significant impact on their businesses over the next five years, rating that impact an 8 on a scale of I to 10.

Panelists indicate that they will be driven to adopt e-commerce by their suppliers, customers and competitors, so that by 2003, e-commerce will become "tables stakes" required for all successful channel players. Early adopters may even gain a significant competitive advantage.

Among wholesalers' concerns, more than 6OVo believe e-commerce will increase competition and drive consolidation, and 40Vo are concerned that e-commerce would eliminate distributors from the channel.

During the same time, the number of customers engaged in e-commerce and of electronic sales should more than triple.

The key for wholesalers' survival is continuing to add value and, according to the report, e-commerce may provide a way to do just that; value can be derived from the information wrapped around the product, rather than just from the product itself.

For customers, this could include:

a 24-hour order entry, customer service and technical support

o electronic funds transfer

o the ability to check inventory in real time

o the ability to access and compare a wide variety of product information

"Amazon.com books are priced the same for everyone, no matter who or where the buyer or seller is," O'Neill notes. "In the lumber industry, freight is not the same, so companies have natural trading partners. So it doesn't matter if (an exchange) has 100 participants, if they don't have the l0 that are important to you."

But what about the wholesalers themselves? Do they view e-commerce as a threat or an opportunity?

According to a new study, "Facing the Forces of Change: Four Trends Reshaping Wholesale Distribution" by

The report concludes that while ecommerce will change wholesalers' role of moving physical objects, it won't eliminate it. It's still not cost effective, for example, for customers to go to many different suppliers' Web sites, gather and compare product and price information, then revisit one or more of the sites to make purchases.

Distributors see their trading partners increasingly adopting e-commerce, as their own sales through this medium increase dramatically. They predict the number of their suppliers engaged in some form of e-commerce to double over the next five vears.

o the ability to check the order in transit and estimate the time of arrival

For suppliers, it might include:

. highly accurate demand forecasts transmitted in real time

o accurate, quantifiable data on customer preferences or problems

r marketing techniques and technical information that can help a supplier develop new products

Despite the lumber industry's slowness to change, electronic commerce is coming. The question is who will choose to use it and how.

While both exchanges streamline the trading process, their approaches are polar opposites.

5 5Er STft4ATING," "Quoting" and ll,r"Bidding"

are three words that to most people have the same meaning, but when used within the context of the lumber industry, they can mean completely different things.

Requesting an estimate, quote or bid to fix your car will produce three similar documents no matter where you are. But not ifyou request an estimate for lumber in New York, a quote in Texas, and a bid in California.

Within the lumber industry, the definition of estimate, quote and bid is dictated by the region and the market served. whether retail or wholesale. A contractor bidding yard on the West Coast that moves lumber in bulk would use all three of these seemingly synonymous transactions in parallel, for very different purposes.

If you ask your vendor if they provide software for estimating, quoting and bidding, chances are they'll say, "Yesl" But then ask them to define them. Now, do they really understand what these terms mean to your company and to the lumber industry?

At Spruce, we define an Estimate as something that stays on the system until the end of the day. If a customer calls and wants a price on l0 2x4 8s, three sheets of plywood, and some roofing material, and says he might be down today to pick it up, you would call up an estimate on your system.

A Quote, on the other hand, might be a price on a deck package, patio cover or even a room addition. The contractor says he should know by the end of the week if he will do the work.

You canquote meby computer

By Randy Reames Southern California regional manager Spruce Computer Systems

to generate total footage to aid in buying the lumber. Recaps can be generated in various formats to ensure that the correct profits are being made.

In this case, a quote has an expiration date and a purge date associated with it. It can be set to expire in one week but can remain on the system longer.

Bids, however, are generally for the sale of bulk lumber and have more complicated requirements that merit their own Contractor Bidding Module. The easy facilitation of bids is very important to lumberyards where bulk lumber provides 80-9OVo of their gross sales. Bids are received from contractors in the form of detailed lumber lists, takeoffs from plans, or bids generated by other yards. Larger bids could be for a tract of homes or an apartment complex that may include many phases of construction. Smaller bids may be for a custom home or possibly an add-on to an existing structure.

The pricing and re-pricing of bids becomes crucial in getting the contract. Your system should provide the ability to check footage and costs, and finetune pricing while still maintaining the profit margin. A price spec screen can be used to enter additional discounts or increases by various methods. A price spec may be entered to take 2Vo off on all the plywood while adding $2/lvIBF to all the 2x4s. Once these price specs are entered, the bid is automatically repriced. In the case where a bid has expired, the entire bid can also be repriced using the current prices.

It is easy to substitute and add products as building plans change. A bid can be broken down into different loads, shown with various multipliers, and broken down into individual Plan/I4odel specs. Bid loads need to be entered only once. To use the load multiple times in a single bid, simply enter the appropriate multiplier. Loads can be easily combined with other loads to create several different models. Several bids can also be combined

The quicker the bid can be rebid and returned to the customer, the better chance you have of getting the project.

The process doesn't stop once the job or project is sold. It needs to be shipped and tracked. hojects and prices must be committed, pre-liens generated, long/short reports created, and add-ons tracked and processed. A Delivery/Dispatch module can help dispatchers handle scheduled deliveries from the yard to the job site. It simplifies and organizes the loading of trucks based on location and delivery date, while reducing paperwork and increasing accuracy.

You can simpli$ your purchasing functions even further by setting up Electronic Data Interchange with your vendors. Your system can tie in with your wholesalers' computer systems to submit purchase orders and retrieve invoice data, price updates and sale information. Keying errors are elimi-

Bids are generally for

the sale of bulk lumber and have more complicated requirements.

nated. Orders are received quicker and more reliably, resulting in fewer credit/debit memos and improved cash flow and safety stock levels. This clearly gives you a competitive advantage over competitors who have not implemented EDI with their suppliers.

All of these functions can contribute to the success of a yard, but it is not until the vital bidding process is completed, that a yard can even begin to think about accounts receivables, inventory purchasing, etc. Without a timely bid and a sold job, there would be no need for these software modules.

Itr/ITH each passing day, industry Y Y professionals are discovering the Internet's potential for generating business. Indeed, one need only enter key words such as "lumber" or "building products" into a search engine to reveal the scores of retail and wholesale dealers on line.

While few industry Web site owners have received orders electronically, most regard their site as being a valuable information tool, and worthy of the investment. "We've received a substantial amount of business from one account in particular that located us (at www.achoustonlumber.com)," said Stacey Byrum, A.C. Houston Lumber Co., Las Vegas, Nv. "However, we've also received numerous other leads that have benefited (us)."

She added that the site was activated in April 1997, but a counter wasn't installed until last summer. "Since then, we've received over 4,600 hits from the general public," she said. "Our site presents a good overview of what we offer in terms of products and services."

Turn

Web browsers into buyers

Cheryl Fentress, Anthony Forest Products, El Dorado, Ar., said that their site (www.anthonyforest.com) was created inlate 1997 "We receive about 2,000 hits per month and an average of 240 requests for technical information each month as well," she said. As with the previously referenced companies, Anthony's site "provides customers and visitors with information on our products, company history, PDF documents, and other information," Fentress said. She also added that she has checked out other sites and found that "the ones that caught my eye were the ones that placed an emphasis on the environmental aspect of the timber industry... and provided information on their products... in laymen's terms."

Conrady seconded Wimsatt's belief that the Internet is gaining in popularity amongst industry professionals. "People are starting to feel more confident buying via e-commerce," he said. "The fear factor is waning."

"We set up our site (www.wimsatt.com) to give consumers a feel for what we do," asserts Robert "Bob" Wimsatt, executive vice president, Wimsatt Building Materials, Louisville, Ky. Founded in 1936, the roofing, siding and window products distribution company has two locations in Kentucky and two in Tennessee. He said, "Fifty-five percent of our business comes from professional roofers, the remaining amount from retail lumber dealers."

After revealing that his company launched its Web site in July 1996, Wimsatt said, "It was clear to us even then that the overall potential of the Internet to the building materials industry was huge." While noting that the company's site is mostly used "as an information center" by consumers, Wimsatt added that electronic interaction "has not become significant between us and our customers, but we know in time it will-it must." He further maintained that the site is "becoming more significant with our suppliers. In fact, all of our major suppliers have a presence on the Web."

Houston's Byrum said that she also viewed other sites, but declined to reveal which ones. "I'd prefer to remain unbiased, and not single any of these sites out," she said. "However, we do visit certain vendors and competitors on a periodic basis to remain knowledgeable about our suppliers and the market."

Chris Conrady, CCI-Triad Systems Corp., Livermore, Ca. (www.ccitriad.com), which manufactures computer systems for the lumber industry, wasn't shy in revealing a particular site that he admired. "Cornell True Value Hardware in Eastchester. N.Y.. has a terrific site (www.cornells.com)," he said. "They have a forum where other dealers can exchange information and ideas. It's a very unique site and easy to go through."

Wimsatt also recommended www.owenscorning.com, Owens Corning's site, saying, "It's tremendous, in part, because they have a great deal of information." And he selected Tamko, Joplin, Mo., the nation's largest family-owned roofing company, as another noteworthy site (www.tamko.com). "We try and direct people to sites such as these that can help them," he adds.

He also offered some tips for those that are thinking about setting up their own site. "To begin with, design your site for the customer, not yourself," he said. "Ask yourself what you can do to get people to look at your site and spend time going through it to learn about what you have to offer. In short, you have to have a goal when setting up (the site), and you must make sure that it's easy to find." Regarding the last point, he further noted that Web site owners should "register their site with as many search engines as possible. This way you have greater access to a larger audience."

Conrady further maintained that sites aren't that difficult to design, nor are they as expensive as one might think. "Graphics are available on line to help people set up," he said. "Most of the information is free or low cost, too. What you have to keep in mind is that establishing a site is only a small fraction of an on-line commitment. Consistent updating is the key to catching someone's eye, keeping them coming back, and perhaps making them buyers as opposed to browsers."

"The fear factor is waning."

Dollars for decking near $+ billion

THE DECKING market in the U.S.

is predicted to reach $4 billion in two years, following 10 years of steady growth of, on average, 8.17o annually.

The 7,200 contractors who specialize as deck contractors build 200 to 500 units annually.

ing market surpassed $3 billion.

According to the California Redwood Association, two to three million new decks are constructed each year, translating to more than 342 per hour or one about every l0 seconds.

Today, approximately 25Vo of all American homes feature decks----or 30 million decks.

Contractors construct 6OVo of all decks, homeowners 407o. Decks built by professionals cost between $18 and $25 per sq. ft. Do-it-yourselfer-built decks range from $12 to $18 per sq. ft.

decking projects.

Every year, approximately 4.1 million homeowners purchase some kind of deck materials.

According to a recent survey,237o of respondents replaced or added a deck in the last two years.

Among new homes, 25Vo are bfilt with a deck attachment, and more than 807o of new home buyers would like a deck. Almost 707o of new decks are constructed for homes under five years old.

That rate outpaced both the 1.57o rate of new construction and the 3.77o rate of home improvement/maintenance/repair from 1991 to 1997. In 1991. the entire U.S. residential deck-

The 7,200 contractors in the U.S. who specialize as deck contractors build 200 to 500 units annually. The average size is 160 to 200 sq. ft. Each year, between 800 million and 1.2 billion sq. ft. of lumber are used in

A recent cost-vs.-value study revealed that the average deck addition cost $5,927, with an averageT3To payback in property value. The payback, which varied thoughout the country, was highest in San Francisco, Ca.. at l49%o.

GLULAM GBOUP: (1) New American Institute of Timber Construction (l-r) president John Anthony, outgoing pres. Maurice Rhude, v.p. Dick Cormier at 47th annual meeting in Kauai, Hi. (2) Tommy Hewitt, Bud Filler. (3) Ellie Filler, Bud Owsley. (4) Mike & Angie Lynch. (5) Nancy Jaenicke, Genie Quinn, Dorthea King. (6) Pat & Reggie Kline, Mike Caldwell. (7) Pat & Jerry Leslie, Curtis Kuehn. (8) Paul & Linda Gilham. (9) Mark Seech, Mike Lynch, John Jayne, Don Norell. (10) Chester New, Mike Lane, Mike Allen.

(11)Joe & Dorothy Hucke. (12)Fred & Celeste Meintz. (13)Margaret & Maurice Rhude. (14) Bob & Mary Powell. (15) Pal Cormier, Linda Bevard. (16) Faye New, Shannon Giles, Robin Giles. (17) Mike Foster, Gunnar Brinck, Gordon Foster. (18) Holton Quinn, Jerry Leslie, Bruce Bevard. (19) Kathy Jones, Kay Burley, Marjie Brinck. (20) Norm Strauss, Dave Strauss, Jon Strauss. (21) Scotty & Pat Giles, Michele Anthony, Pat Anthony, Jane Brautigam (22\ Gary Burley, Barbara & Mike Parks.

Mqv 1999 BurlnrNc Pnooucrs Drcrsr 15

hriefs

I:rtrnr

84 Lwrber held a grand opening at its prototype 10,600-sq. ft. 84+ store in Graysville, Tn. (see April, p. 22), with plans for another 84+ opening May 26 in Madisonville, Tn.

Triangle Builders, Aberdeen, N.C., has been acquired by SGunit Pelican Companies, Inc. and merged with the adjacent Pelican Building Center ...

, McCoy's Building Supply Centers is remodeling its Weslaco, Tx., unit, the 2nd of its 10O storps to be retrofitted; expected to be completed by mid-June, the pro- ject includes expanding the sales floor by 3,(n0 sq. ft., adding a pro sales area, and installing a new pallet and cantilever racking system in the warehouse and yard ...

MG Building Materials held a grand opening for is new store in Uvalde, Tx.; mgr. Rothie Cox, sales mgr. Mike Mattie, conffactor sales mgr. Joe Epp, office mgr. Bonnie Rigby

ktnmus Supply Co. has broken grcund on a pro yard with reload inOakwood, Ga. ...

Scottyb held a grand opening at its remodeled Sanford, Fl., unit

BSL Holdings reportedly is negotiating to acquire Holmes Lumben Jacksonville, Fl., with two yards, three tmss plants and prehung window & wall plants

Loweb Cos. opened new superstores in Simpsonville, S.C.; Countryside, Fl., and Clcveland, Tn. (store mgr. Bill Leko, co-mgr. Dennis Crawford), and replacement stores in Tupelo, Ms.; Orangeburg, S.C. (store mgr. James Padgett, co-mgr. Elvin Cobbs), and Morristown, Tn. (store mgr. Dewayne Bentley, comgr. Todd Parnell, asst. mgrs. Troy Woodson, David Davies, J.D. Large) ...

Lowe's completed its acquisi- tion of Eagie Hardwaie & Garden, Renton, Wa., giving the

company 525 stores in 37 states the chain expects a summer unveiling of a replacement unit in Johnson City, Tn., and fall openings for replacement stores on Ttrnnel Rd. and on Patton Ave. in Asheville, N.C., and got the go-ahead to build in Royal Palm Beach, Fl.

Lawe's has launched a $3 million interactive traveling exhibit to teach home safety to children; the 1,20Gsq. ft. Great Safety Adventure rolling exhibit will visit as many as 100 cities ... armed robbers stole an undisclosed amount of money from Lowe's Enterprise, Al., store...

Wickes /nc. is constructing a wall panel and roof truss plant in Jackson, Tn.

Home Depot opens new home centers May 6 in Slidell, La., and May 2O in North Houston, Tx., and a new Expo Design Center May 2O in Houston, Tx. ... Depot plans to open 190 stores in 1999 and boost its store count to 1,600 by 2OO2

Home Depot is building a new store in Weatherford, TX., and is nearing completion of a unit in Fredericksburg, Va.

Hechingerb, despite obtaining $70O million in credit from Bank Boston Retail Finance, saw S&P lower its bank loan rating from B to B- due to poor performance

Suorrsntrs/trru:rcrur:rs

Snavely Forest Products has acquired the assets and operations of Westwood Forest Products, Greensboro, N.C., from John Schultz and son Mark Schultz, who remains gen. mgr. of the Greensboro Sales & Distribution Facility ...

Sierra Pine, Ltd. agreed to buy Weyerhaeuser's MDF and particleboard facilities in Moncure, N.C.; Adel, Ga., and Springfield, Or.

Arling ltmber has added a new warehouse facility for engineered wood in Northern Ky. ...

Rugby Group agreed to sell its British and American distribution business, Rugby Building Products, Alpharetta, Ga", to JeliWen...

Ha*dy Hardware Wholesale lgs acquired 3O acrcs to expand its Houston, Tx., facility to 555,000 sq. ft. on 55 acres

Star Paper Tube, Fort Mill, S.C., has begun manufacturing Protect-A-Board in Mexico City; Tomas Garcia, gen. mgr., .Srar PaperTube de Mexico ...

American Wood Preservers Bureau, disbanded and its oversight duties handled by American Lumber Standard Committee since the early l99os, is being formally dissolved and its remainine asset-s gangfened to the Forest Froducts Society

Trex Co., Winchester, Va., Iaunched an initial public offerins of 4.1 million sharis of commoil stock at $10 a share on the New Ysrk Stock Exchange

St'ietly Who le sale, Tallahassee, Fl., moved into a newly acquired 98,00Gsq. ft. warehouse

.lohrc Manville has begun construction of a two-modufe fiberglass insulation products line at its Winder, Ga., plant; the first module will be complete in July 2000, the second in early 2001

PGIis the new name for VnvlTbcldPGT,Nokomis, Fl.

Celotex Corp., Tampa, Fl., has acquired specialty interior products maker Capaul Corp. ...

Louis & Co. has added new branches in San Antonio, Tx., and Las Vegas, Nv.

Grass America, /nc., cabinet and furniture hardware manufacturer, is adding 54,000 sq. ft. to its Kernersville, N.C., facility for an automated DC

Atnerican Lumber Standard Committee is evaluating Norway spruce and Scots pine radius edge decking from Finland ...

Housing stuns in March (latest figs.) fell l7o to a 1J66 million annual rate ... single f'amily starts held at 1.401 million; multifamily were at rates of 40,000 for (2-4 units) and 325,000 (5+1 permits fell6Vo to a 1.636 million pace.

/1

1\lumlnurn Uolurnns

.Listings.are often submitted months in advance. Always verify dates and locations with sponsor before making plans to anend.-'

ilhv

Lumbermen's Association of TexasMay 10-15, estimating seminars, Waco, Tx.; (800) 749-5862.

Wallace llardware Co.May 12-13, market, Gatlinburg Convention Center, Gatlinburg, Tn; (423) 586-5650.

Southeast Asian International Building ExpositionMay 12.15, Singapore; (847) 605-1025.

National Hardwood Lumber AssociationMay 14-15, financial concepts course, Memphis, Tn.; (800) 933-0318.

Do it Best Corp.May 15-18, spring market, Indianapolis, In.; (219) 748-5300.

American Wood-Preserverst AssociationMay16-20, annual meeting, Mariott Harbor Beach Hotel, Fort Lauderdale, Fl.: (817) 326-6300.

International Building & Construction Trade Fair .99 - May 20-23, Shanghai Exhibition Center, Shanghai, China; 0086-21-6255631 l.

International Mass Retail AssociationMay 22-25, annual convention, Orange County Convention Center, Orlando, Fl.; (703) 841-2300.

Timber hoducts ManufacturersMay 23-25, annual meeting, Coeur d'Alene, Id.; (877) 535-4U6.

Railinos

Crnamental Al.tttrinum Gates €/ Fetrces

Houston Hoo-Hoo ClubMay 24, spring golf rournament, Pine Crest Golf Course, Houston, Tx.; (281) 499-5575.

Asphalt Roofing Manufacturers AssociationMay 26-27, executive committee meeting, St. Louis, Mo.; (410) 546-0791.

fux:

Southern Building ShowJune 3-5, Cobb Galleria Centre, Atlanta, Ga.; (800) 854-7736.

Oklahoma Lumbermen's AssociationJune 4-6, joint summer meeting with Lumbermen's Association of Texas, Lake Texoma, Ok.; (800) 44+1771.

National Oak Flooring Manufacturers AssociationJune 46, mid-year meeting, Branson, Mo.; (901) 526-5016.

Australian International Building Materials & Equipment ExhibitionJune 6-9, Inrerbuild '99, Sydney Convention & Exhibition Centre, Sydney, Australia; (301) 656-2942.

TP Training SystemsJune 7-ll, grading course, Conyers, Ga.; (770) 922-8OA0.

House.Hasson Hardware Co.June 12-L3, market, Gatlinburg Convention Center, Gatlinburg, Tn.; (423) 525047t.

Carolinas-Tennessee Building Material AssociationJune 17.20, summer conference, The Homestead, Hot Springs, Ar.; (70/.) 376-rs03.

Southern Pressure Treaters AssociationJune 20-22, summer meeting, The Homestead, Hot Springs, Ar.; (334) 9685726.

Forest Products SocietyJune 20-23, annual meeting, Boise Convention Center, Boise, Id.; (608) 231-1361.

Appalachian Hardwood Manufacturers, Inc.June 23-25, summer meeting, Grove Park Inn, Asheville, N.C. (336) 8858315.

For more in{ormation contact:

Bricolage '99June 23-27,home improvement trade fair, Sao Paulo, Brazil; 55 I l-5505-2243.

Southern Forest Products AssociationJune 24-26, Expo '99, Georgia World Congress Center, Atlanta, Ga; (5O4) 4434464.

National Hardwood Lumber AssociationJune 25-26, media relations course, Memphis, Tn.; (800) 933-0318.

G'P Becomes #1 In Tleated Wood

Forest Products Giant Buys 3 Plants From Mellco, 1 From Tucker

Georgia-Pacific Corp., Atlanta, Ga., has acquired three pressure treating facilities from Mellco Inc., Perry, Ga., and a fourth from C.M. Tucker Lumber Corp., Pageland, S.C.

With a combined annual capacitY of 240 million M. ft., Mellco's plants-in Rock Hill, S.C.; Athens, Al., and Roanoke Rapids, N.C.-last year treated 125 million M. ft.

G-P offered positions to all existing production and sales personnel, although v.p.-sales Doug Walter has opted to join manufacturers reP Winward Sales, Graysonville, Md., to be closer to family.

Office staff will remain in Perry until September, when they will transfer to the former Southeast Wood Treating office in Montgomery, Al.

Tucker sold G-P its treating plant in Henderson, N.C., but retains its operations in Pageland, S.C., where it operates two treating cylinders, a sawmill and remanufacturing plant. Plans are to continue to grow the 79-year-old Pageland operations, including the addition of 18 acres ofcovered storage.

The Henderson plant treats 125 million bd. ft. of southern pine lumber each year.

G-P now sells, markets and distributes treated lumber from 13 treating plants with a combined annual capacity of more than I billion bd. ft., highest in the industry.

Ironically, until early last year' G-P operated only a single treating plant, in Sterling, Ga. It owns and operates 37 sawmills in 13 states, manufacturing more than 2.7 billion bd. ft. of lumber annually.

Then, in early 1998, G-P acquired the exclusive sales and distribution rights for lumber produced at Southeast Wood's seven treating plants. Technically, since G-Pdoes not own the Southeast Wood Plants, Universal Forest Products and Great Southern Wood Preserving Produce more treated wood than G-P-owned plants do.

Last year, C.M. Tucker heated more than 240 million bd. ft. of lumber as the nation's sixth largest treater, according to Building Products

Digest's annual ranking of the Top 25 Pressure Treaters (see April, p.9-12).

Mellco, the nation's fifteenth largest, was founded in October 1987 by Mel Tolleson Sr. with two treating plants split off from Tolleson Lumber Co., Perry.

Tolleson died two weeks before the G-P deal closed (see obituary, p.32).

Top 25 Correction

The more than 125 million bd. ft. of treated lumber produced last year by Culpeper Wood Preservers, Culpeper, Va., reported to Building Products Digest for its Top 25 Pressure Treaters list (April, p. ll) actually was the production of only one of the company's three plants. In actuality, the three facilities' six cylinders treated a combined 277,744,000 bd. ft., earning Culpeper the #6 spot on the list instead of #14, and meaning companywide production did not fall, but rather rose an impressive 207o.

At Btitt Lumber, we specialize in redwood fence posts, boards and rails - made directly from the tog in our modern sawmill. We're large enough to meet your customers' needs, yet small enough to care and provide the personal seruice you need.

for all your redwood fencing needs from Britt Lumber Go, and Pacific Lumber Go., Fortunar Ga., reman.

Oklahoma Lumbermen's Association is holding a joint summer meeting with Lumberments Association of Texes June 4-6 at Lake Texoma, Ok.

Virginia Building Material Association installed Ray Hawthome, Peninsula Supply Co., Newport News, as its new president during its 73rd annual convention March 20-23 in Myrtle Beach, S.C. He succeeds Jack Williams, Pleasants Hardware, Richmond.

New president-elect is James Van Landingham, Builders Supply Co., Petersburg; v.p.s David Cappellari, Capps Home Building Center, Moneta, and Bruce Edwards, Lamberth Building Materials, White Stone; associate v.p. Michael Lewis, Lumber Sales Corp., Richmond; treasurer Fred Siewers II, Siewers Lumber & Millwork Co., Richmond, and national director George W. Lester II, Lester Home Center, Martinsville.

Rod Sedwick, H.B. Sedwick Jr., Building Supply, Orange; Stephen Short,

Carolina Builders Corp., Richmond, and Joe Mullen, Valley Box & Building Materials, Harrisonburg, are new to the board of directors, and Ed Hunt, Morgan Distribution, Gainesville, is a new associate director.

Carolinas-Tennessee Building Material Association's summer membership conference is set for June 17-20 at The Homestead, Hot Springs, Va. The program includes installation of officers. a golf tournament at the Cascades Golf Course, Rick Miller, Michael E. Dunn & Associates, speaking on "Politics, Power & the Building Material Industry," and economist Dr. Edmond J. Seifried addressing "Economic Indicators for the Building Material Industry" and "What They Mean to Your Business."

International Wood Products Association announced it is changing is logo from IHPA to IWPA.

Also, during its 43rd annual convention March 17-19 in Tampa, Fl., the group

honored William F. Monck, president of Interboard, for his long-time service to the organization.

Kentucky Lumber & Building Materlal Dealers Association will hold its Congleton Cup golf outing July 19 at the Players Club, Lexington, followed on July 20 by the summer board of directors meeting at the nearby Embassy Suites.

"This isn't Home Depot vs. Lowe's anymore. It's the two attacking the market together."

- Doug Gordon, NationsBanc Montgome ry Se c uritie s analy s t

LISA doesWi ndows.

Harvey Growing ln Georgia

W.T. Harvey Lumber Co., Columbus, Ga., is in the midst of a major expansion in the Columbus area.

The company has purchased 14 acres of land in north Columbus to build a l5,00Gsq. ft. location to serve commercial and residential building contractors. Construction should begin this fall for completion by year's end.

Harvey will expand its branches in Phenix City and on Gentian Blvd. in Columbus from 5,(XX) to 10,000 sq. ft. and affiliate them with Do-it Best.

The company also acquired the building supply opertion of TaylorFoster Co., Manchester, Ga.

Future plans for the l36year-old firm include adding up to six stores over the next few years in smaller communities within a SO-mile radius of Columbus.

tion of REIT markets in mid-1998. the companies suspended the initial offering and have been unable to reach a mutually beneficial alternative transaction.

In the meantime, AICO and Potlatch will explore the possibility of ATCO's lands supplying hardwood pulpwood and logs to Potlatch's pulp 4nd paperboard mill in Cypress Bend, Ar.. and hardwood mill in Warren. Ar.

Dean Sells Fry Wholesale

Dean Lumber Co., Gilmer, Tx., has sold its Dallas subsidiary Fry Wholesale to long-time Fry manager Ron Hilliard, according to Steve Dean, company president.

Founded in 1983, Fry will continue its relationship with Dean in the sales and distribution of Dricon and Wolmanized pressure treated lumber products.

DW SUPPLIER of the Year Awad was presented recantly lo Premdor, Inc., by Byron Potter (letl), presidenl and ceo, DW Disttibution, Dallas, Tx., to Premdor v.p.-sales Larry Repar. Also, DWs Jack Carson was namsd 1998 Distributkn Specialist of lhe Year.

ATCO-Potlatch Deal Folds

Anderson-Tully Co., Memphis, Tn., and Potlatch Corp., Spokane, Wa., have mutually terminated their February 1998 agreement to combine Potlatch's Arkansas timberlands and ATCO's timberlands into a real estate investment trust (REIT). The related sale of ATCO logging, lumber and veneer operations to Potlatch also was terminated.

The deal was subject to several conditions including completion of a successful initial public offering of REIT Timberland Growth Corp.'s common stock. Due to a significant deteriora-

Annual Lumber Demand Hits New High

With single-family housing starts the highest in 20 years, lumber consumption in the country topped 52.6 billion bd. ft., up 3.3Vo from the previous record year of 1997, according to the Western Wood Products Association.

Prior to 1997. the all-time lumber consumption year was 1987, when 50.6 billion bd. ft. was used.

This year, WWPA forecasts lumber demand nationwide to slip l%o to 52.1 billion bd. ft., still the second highest year on record.

Most of the decline in lumber use is

expected in residential construction. Housing starts are forecast to fall 5Vo to 1.535 million this year. Single-family housing starts, which use on average 13,500 bd. ft. of lumber each, are anticipated to decline by SVo.

The increase in consumption also brought record lumber imports. Some 18.7 billion M. ft. of lumber was imported to the U.S. last year, mostly from Canada. Imports comprised almost 367o of the lumber used in 1998.

U.S. lumber exports were off 29.6Vo in 1998, pulled down by Asian economic problems. Exports to Japan,

"I've been standing behind Adams Lumber for-10 Jrearri.

"We buy Cedar fencing materials in different grades, in widths ranglng from 3-7/2" to 12", and lengths from 4' to 8'. Adams is the only source for some of that material. They're prompt, ship on our schedule, are consistent in grade, and allow us to mix truckloads of different sizes and grades. They take care of us, no matter what."

traditionally the largest foreign customer for American lumber, were down 53Vo.

For 1999, exports are expected to fall0.5Vo to 1.269 billion bd. ft.

New Mark For Treated Wood

A new identification program has been introduced to help dealers, contractors and building code officials recognize and distinguish treated products under the American Lumber Standard Committee treated wood program.

In order to comply with the Uniform Building Code, treated wood must be marked with an ALSCaccredited agency's quality stamp or end tag. In the West, five different agencies are authorized by the ALSC to inspect treated wood. Each agency has its own unique mark that it places in a different position within stamps or tags, making it sometimes difficult to recognize or locate.

In addition, due to the absence ofa single, universally recognized mark, the market regularly accepts material with invalid quality stamps or material that does not meet AWPA standards.

To help clarify the situation, the Western Wood Preservers Institute has introduced the CheckMark ldentification Program, providing a noticeable checkmark for quickly locating the accredited agency's logo on treated wood stamps or end tags.

The treating industry also produces products that do not require ALSC oversight, such as landscape timben for non-structural applications and decking products that carry their own manufacturer warranty.

Railroads To Share Gateways

CSX Transportation, Jacksonville, Fl., and Union Pacific Railroad have struck an industry-first agreement said to streamline east-west traffic through major gateways that connect the two railroads.

Although railroads traditionally "pre-block" freight cars for connecting railroads, this is the first time the process will use a formal, structured plan to direct flows through the most advantageous gateways, quickening traffic and maximizing the use of each interchange point.

CSXT's and UP's major interchange points are New Orleans, La.; Memphis, Tn.; St. Louis, Mo., and Salem and Chicago, Il. Transition to the new routing is expected to take six to l2 months.

Mike Nasseq, Jewett Cameron

GRADUATING CLASS for TP Training Systems'March 29-April 2 Level 1 NGR lumber grading school: (lront, i+) Andy Norton, instructor Timber Products Inspection; Bobby Oakie, Union Camp, Folkston, Ga.; Eessie Robinson, Georgia-Pacific, Prosperity, S.C.; Pearl Howard, Union Camp; Sara Combs, G-B Prosperity. (Back) Hal Badford, G-P, Mc0ormick, S.C.; Stephen Henson, G-P, Varnville, S.C.; Chris Rose, Jasper Lumber, Jasper, Al.; Bobby Carter, G-P, Prosperity; Paul Haithcock, Troy Lumber, Troy, Al.; Dennis Berry, J.W. Jones Lumber, Elizabeth City, N.C.; Tlm Blalock, J.L. Sizemore Lumber, Graham, N.C.; Mark Cox, A&C Log Homes, Dexler, Mo.; John Perry Georgia Lumber, Covington, Ga.; Richard Deloach, G-P, Claxton, Ga.; Gary Gunn, Gunn Lumber, Sikeston, Mo.; Keith Sapp, TPI instructor.

Ergonomics Proposal Costly

An ergonomics regulation proposed by OSHA could increase business'cost from $180 per back injury to $21,660, according to Deborah Hayden, v.p. of operations, Tindell's Builders Supply Inc., Knoxville, Tn.

"(OSHA) can ruin us with one elroneous interpretation, and this draft standard is rampant with possibilities," warned Hayden, one of 20 small business representatives handpicked by the Small Business Administration and OSHA to evaluate OSHA s Draft Ergonomics Program Standard.

One of the biggest problems with the draft cited by Hayden is a Medical Management Removal provision in conflict with many state workers'compensatic.n plans. The provision would allow employees up to six months to recover from their Workplace Muskulo-skeletal Disorders (WMSD) at IOOVo wages/salary plus benefits.

OSHAs dehnition of a WMSD would include back strain, sprains, swelling, etc., related to heavy lifting or repetitive motions. Hayden says the nature of the building supply industry and the necessity of manual handling would subject the industry to excess scrutiny by OSHA inspectors.

Our Customers Think the Davm of a New Millennium is Something to look Fonruard to.

Building material dealers using SPRUCE computer systems have nothing to fear when it comes to the Year 2000.

Happily, 92o/o of our customers can still use the original hardware they purchased from SPRUCE when the clock stri.les midnight on December 31, 1999.

And because we're not in the midst of the Year 20OO Upgrade Crisis, we can continue to provide the best support in the industry.

How can we be so sure we have the best support? Because we can make these claims:

A We have the highest support personnel-tocustomer ratio in Ure industry.

A We know you by the sound of your voice when you call for support.

A We answer and resolve support calls immediately.

A Our support fees are virtually the same today as they were l0 years ago.

Can your software supplier say the same?

If you want a computer company with the foresight to save you money over the long haul and still provide you with a high level of personal support, call SPRUCE today. You'll be happy you did (especially when the Year 2000 rolls around).

CELOTEX Corp., Tampa, Fl., plans to build a $75 million gypsum wallboard plant (artist's rendering above) in Canollton, Ky. With an estimated annual capacity of 700 million sq. ft., the 400,000-sq. ft. plant will be one of the largest single-line gypsum wallboard facilities in the world.

Depot Looks At Gertified Wood

Recently the target of a spate of environmental protests, Home Depot has joined the Certified Forest products Council, which entails working toward independent third party certification of all wood products stocked at their stores.

The chain has set no targets or timetables, only the goal "to increase the amount of certified wood products in our mix as supply becomes available." In addition, Home Depot said it will actively support suppliers committed to "scientifically based forestry practices that are environmentally responsible, socially beneficial and economically viable."

Lumbermen Cruising Mexican Riviera

Hoo-Hoo International is taking to the high seas this fall for its l07th annual convention.

The meeting will be held Oct. 3-10 aboard Carnival Cruise Line's new ship, the Elation, as it cruises the Mexican Riviera.

The fraternal lumber industry organization has opened the cruise to everyone in the lumber industry and their friends.

Membership in HooHoo is not required. Aside from board and committee meetings, most of the HHI functions will be held the final day of the cruise, including elections, award presentations and installation of officers.

After departing Los Angeles, the ship spends two days cruising down the Pacific coast, before arriving in Puerto Vallarta. Then it heads north to Mazatlan. then Cabo San Lucas, and eventually, back to Southern California.

The Elation's lobby is the social centerpiece of a magnificent six-story Atrium. The majestic vessel features miles of deck for sunning and strolling, resort-calibre spa facilities, Las Vegas-style casino and entertainment, fine dining, plus a huge outdoor entertainment area with three pools, six whirlpools and a spiral waterslide.

Daylong stopovers at Mexico's most popular resorts offer watersports, duty-free shopping and sightseeing.

Deadline for reservations and payment is July 9. For more information, call (800) 454-7174 or (253) 845-5330.

Door Distributors Add A Fifth

Holmes Architectural Door & Hardware, Inc., Jacksonville, Fl., with a branch in Orlando, has merged into Hardware Corp. of America.

Four commercial door, frame and hardware distributors formed Chevy Chase, Md.-based HCA in June 1998 with the intention of consolidating the localized and highly fragmented contract hardware industry by developing a national network of wholly owned subsidiaries.

As part of HCA, partner firms maintain their local market identity and decentralized operations, but gain access to shared resources, such as training, marketing, human resources, financing and information systems. They also get greater access to capital, the ability to share and refer work throughout the enterprise and shared best practices and management experience.

The Elation

Ron Lane has been named general mgr. for East Coast operations at Causeway Lumber Co., Fort Lauderdale, Fl.

Rick Flores has been named eastern region plywood sales mgr. for Willamette Industries, Rock Hill, S.C.

James Hatcher III has been promoted to president of Pleasants Hardware, Richmond, Va., replacing John t'Jack" Williams, who has retired. Robert Traweek, Jr., is now v.p.retail & commercial sales; Fran West, v.p.-industrial & contract sales, and Martin Mertz, v.p.-information systems.

John Lindsey, ex-7-D Wholesale, has opened an office in Fort Lauderdale, Fl., for Skana Forest Products Ltd.

Ken Nichenko is the new Jackson, Ms., area mgr. for Renewable Resource Associates, Inc., Lithonia, Ga., according to Lon J. Sibert.

Porter Taylor has been appointed ceo of Dean Lumber Co.. Gilmer. Tx., according to Steve Dean.

Rusty Yazdanpour is now general mgr. for Idaho Timber of Florida.

Patricia A. Barnard has been promoted to senior v.p.-human resources at Georgia-Pacific, Atlanta, Ga.

Jesus Rosales has retired from Frontier Wholesale, Lubbock, Tx., after 49 years.

Louis Paolino, Jr. has been named chairman of the board of U.S. Plastic Lumber Corp., Boca Raton, Fl.

Dan Elliott has been named co-mgr. of 84 Lumber, Falling Creek, Va. Wes Bride is mgr. in Jackson, Tn., and Doug McCubbin is new to outside sales in Campbellsville, Ky.

Steve Weinstein, Louisiana Pacific Corp., has joined subsidiary ABTco, Huntersville, N.C.

Dave Koestner is new to sales at Dixie Plywood Co., Tampa, Fl.

Pat Schaefer is now the president of Central Woodwork, Inc., Memphis, Tn.

Gerald Swan, ex-Fibreboard Corp., has been named executive v.p. & cfo of Cameron Ashley Building Products, Dallas, Tx., replacing Andrew Kerner, who has left the company.

Thomas E. Evans has been promoted to technical sales rep at General Products Co., Inc., Fredericksburg, Va.

Rosetta Lue has been appointed mgr. of the new customer response center at Celotex Corp., Tampa, Fl.

Al Klawuhn is the new branch mgr. for the central states division at Canton Lumber Co.

Rick Neal has been promoted to v.p./controller of accounting at McCoy Corp., San Marcos, Tx.

Perry G. Jennings is the new senior v.p. of human resources for lnwe's Cos., North Wilkesboro, N.C., succeeding Cliff Oxford, who has retired. Stephen Hellrung has been named seniorv.p. & general counsel.

Tom Burroughs has been appointed general counsel for Do it Best Corp. Promotions include: Jim Martin, retail merchandise mgr.; Doug Bieberich, retail product mgr.-tools; Jeff Frazier, retail product mgr.-lawn & garden tools; Tom Snyder, division mgr.-building products; Todd llixson, division mgr.-lumber & panel productst Tom Molloy, division mgr. of pro sales; Brad Seelig, sales mgr.commodities, and Heather Martin, communications mgr.

David Warford and Alan Hastreiter are new to national sales at Glen Oak Lumber & Milling, Inc.

Dr. Johnetta B. Cole has resigned as a director of Home Depot, Atlanta, Ga. Donald Keough has also retired from the board. He has been succeeded by Bonnie Guiton Hill, who resigned from the board at l,ouisiana-Pacific in March.

Gary Lalla has been named brand mgr.residential at Clopay Building Products Co., Inc.

Jack Beene, business mgr.-particleboard & MDF, Temple Inland, Diboll, Tx., is the new chairman of the Composite Panel Association.

Robert Hawkins, Wallace Hardware Co., Nashville, Tn., has been named Hardware Salesperson of the Year. He oversees Northern Kentuckv.

Edward L. Zimmerman is the new v.p.merchandising & marketing for Payless Cashways.

Thomas Vasis is now director of mktg. for Klein Tools.

Michael Thaman, Owens Corning, has been promoted to president-exterior systems business.

Kathleen Peot is the new channel mgr.hardware & intemational business for Milwaukee Electric Tool Corp.

Brad Ashton is now national account mgr. and Garret Van Winkle national sales mgr. at Lamson Home Products. Lyman Shipley, Coastal Lumber Co., Weldon, N.C., is back from a business trip to England.

Yul B. Hirt is in charge of health and safety matters at Mungus-Fungus Forest Products, Climax, Nv., according to owners llugh Mungus and Freddy Fungus.

Instant Lumber From Straw?

Recent discoveries about the formation of wood cells has convinced Virignia Tech researchers that lumber mills may one day be extruding 2x4s made from straw.

According VTI, the cellulose deriviatives from almost any plant mixed with lignin, in the proper portions and given the right conditions, should automatically self-assemble molecularly into wood-like cells.

A commercial formula for instantly transforming straw into wood could circumvent years of tree growth, but will take years of work to calculate, VTI claims.

roducls

I'm On Your Side

Fibercement siding that replicates the texture of cedar and reportedly won't crack, warp or buckle is new from James Hardie Building Products. Select Cedarmill is suited for all environments and resists damage from exposure to humidity, rain, snow, salt air and termites.

Shut Your Trap

Action Media Group has introduced a new device that prevents loss of valuables and other objects that fall into a sink.

By simply twisting two small knobs and removing the Safety Trap's removable screen, objects can be snared before they're flushed into the pipe system.

The product reportedly fits all standard sinks and replaces the old-fashioned P Trap.

Circle No. 504

Shuffle The Deck

Wood/resin composite decking that reportedly resists splitting, warping, cupping and splintering is available from Fiber Composite Corp.

Thermal Melamine Panels

Decorative panels made with a thermoset melamine overlay that is permanently fused to a particleboard or MDF substrate are available from Stel Industries Inc.

The panels resist abrasions, stains, scuffing, radiant heat and boiling water and can be used for cabinets, fixtures, office furniture and other USES.

Over 40 styles are available, including birch, maple, oak and walnut wood grains.

Circle No, 501

The non-combustible product is made of Portland cement, ground sand, cellulose fiber, selected additives and water and available in 4"10-314" exposures.

Circle No. 502

Moisture Content Software

Wagner Electronic Products has introduced a software package for its 683iCE Moisture Content Management System.

Info-Pak Plus for Windows NT uses non-contact, electro-magnetic wave (RF) sensors to continuously measure lumber as it passes through the RF sensing field.

The system triggers outputs to mark or drop unacceptable lumber once its pre-set content limit has been violated.

Circle No. 503

Fiberon does not absorb excessive heat from sunlight and is water and slip resistant.

The product lightens over time to a consistent wood look and can be stained or painted.

Circle No. 505

Not Just Another Pipe Dream

A synthetic rubber based adhesive that bonds pipe wrap to pipes is new from T. Christy Enterprises, Inc.

Prime-It! can be used on all PVC pipe wraps and is available in pint, quart and gallon containers.

The product helps increase corrosion resistance and pipe wrap adheslon.

Circle No. 506

Use Your Header

Joists and short span headers for windows and doors, both made from laminated strand lumber, are new from Trus Joist MacMillan.

Fire ln The Hole

A pre-built backyard fire pit that hooks up to either natural gas or liq- uid propane is available from StraubelStone.

TimberStrand headers are 3-112" thick and run flush with other components of the FrameWorks building system, as well as standard, 2x wall framing materials.

Made from aspen and poplar, residential roof and floor I-shaped joists come in various depths and lengths.

Circle No. 507

Living On The Edge

Laminate, solid surface and hardwood edges for countertops and cabinet doors are available from Kuehn Bevel, Inc.

The product weighs 150 lbs. and comes with gas logs and lava rocks.

Circle No. 509

Made In The Shade

Roll-up shades that can be mounted anywhere sunlight is a problem are new from California Sun Shades, Inc. The shades come in four colors, 4'10' widths, and a standard depth of 6'.

Circle No.510

Flex That Trim

Trim that protects siding cut to fit curved or rounded shapes during installation is new from Kaycan Ltd.

oring stone or concrete retaining walls is new from Cosella Dorken Products. Delta-MS liners control water flow and provide a buffer against soil expansion and contraction. They come in 65.6' long, 3.5'-9.8' wide rolls.

Circle No. 512

Square Deal

Swanson Tool Co. has added two new squares for carpenters, craftsmen and d-i-yers.

Laminate edges are seamless and are. reportedly scratch and impact resrstant.

Hardwood edges come in four wood grains with assorted profiles.

Flex J comes in 12' lensths and is scored at 10" intervals to-facilitate banding and shaping.

Circle No. 511

Retain To Me, I'm WallYours

A dimpled, high density polyethylene membrane that reportedly prevents salts and minerals from discol-

Powder coated to resist rust, the 8" try square and 12" utility square have permanently impressed gradations.

Circle No. 513

is ovoiloble by circling the corresponding Reoder Service number opposite the inside bock cover ond sending the form lo New Products Editor, FAX to 949-852-023.|, by E-moil to ddelvol@ioc.net, by moil to 4500 Compus Dr., Suite 480, Newport Beoch, Co.92660, or by colling (e49) 852-r ee0.

The Case Of The SpiralStairs

Spiral Stairs of America offers ready-to-install residential and commercial spiral stairs in standard (3'-4" to 6'0") and custom sizes.

Family Tools

Shears, wire cutters, pliers and other hand tools made from alloyed steel are available from Xuron Corp.

Ergonomic Specialty Tools reportedly produce clean, square cuts and come with various head styles for cutting specific types of wire, sizes and materials.

All tools weigh between 1.9-2.7 oz. and feature a grip spread closed under 2".

Circle N0.515

Not a kit, the stairs reportedly assemble in 10 minutes and come with various styles of treads, handrails, and spindles. Castings and scrolls are also available.

Circle No. 514

Spraying To All Fields

A water-based spray for patching or decorating ceilings or interior walls is new from Homax Products, Inc.

Easy Touch Orange Peel & Splatter is available in l0- and 20-oz.

cans that cover, respectively, 35 and 70 sq. ft.

Circle N0.516

Patch Works

Vi-tex has added five new patch and underlayment products for repairing concrete, wood, ceramic and tile. Super Flooring Underlayment is self-leveling and is ready to walk on in less than three hours.

Quick Patch, Fast Finish, Super Patch and Mega Patch can be trowelled over cracked and chipped surfaces and come in lO-,25-, and 50-lb. bags.

Circle No. 517

. Plastic Collaled Strip Nails*

. Round Head Wire Gollated Nails

o Collated Finishing Nails

Swan Secure nails are available in bulk cartons and convenient job packs. Use collated nails for framing, decking, roofing, siding, millwork and trim, molding, cabinetry, door and window casings, fascia boards.

Caulk Of The Town

A non-asphalt clear roof sealant that adheres to galvanized metal, PVC, ABS vent pipe, brick, block and mortar is new from the Sashco Co.

dnthgny Power Beams: The Stioneest Glulams

Wth lJoist Depths Plus Other Exclusive Features

Through The Roof repairs leaks between the roof and plumbing vents, chimneys, skylights, fan ducts and gutters. The product reportedly won't dry out or crack and comes in 10.1-oz. cartridges, five-gallon pails plus quart and gallon containers.

Circle N0.518

Marine Resistance

A polymer-coated wood product that protects marine and other outdoor structures from the weather is new from Northstar Vinyl Products, LLC.

Anthony's Power Beam@ is the strongest glulam with I-Joist depths and design values of :ooo Fb -2.1E-290 F,. It supporrs an effective engineered wood system with I-Joists, LVL and Parallam@. It's a full width beam'

o Cost competitive with LVL and PSL

o Direct substitute for LVL and Parallam@

. 3'/rt', 5t/2" and 7" widths

o Stronger and hghter than Parallam@ or LVL . \X/ith or without camber

o Individually wrapped and surface sealed

2lPoly is reportedly so strong that it cannot be cut with a chain saw without the coating separating from the wood. The product comes in tan, dark brown, fatigue green and black.

Circle No. 519

Protective Siding Underlayment

ru A^114" sidingunderlayment that protects against moisture and prevents condensation buildup is new from Teneco Building Products.

Amocor-NPl4 meets all building code requirements and comes in 4'x50'bundles.

Circle No. 520

o Anthony WoodWorks@ software

It's the strongest, stiffest and most versatile engineered beam on the market. Call us today.

Door & Window Groups Unite

Realizing they share common concerns on building code and regulatory issues, organizations serving different sectors of the door and window industry have formed the Fenestration Industry Alliance.

The coordinated effort is designed to b€tter represent the entire industry at various building code hearings.

Initial members include the Window & Door Manufacturers Association, Door & Hardware Institute, Builders Hardware Manufacturers Association, Sealed Insulating Glass Manufacturers Association, Primary Glass Manufacturers Council, Glazing Industry Code Council, National Fenestration Rating Council, and American Architectural Manufacturers Association.

Venture Aims At Super Seedlings

Fletcher Challenge Forests, International Paper, Monsanto Co. and Westvaco Corp. are contributing a combined $60 million over the next five years to form a joint venture to produce and market bio-engineered tree seedlings.

Hoping to improve forest health and productivity, the venture is contracting with and buying the forestry intellectual property of biotechnology research firm Genesis Research & Development Corp., Auckland, New Zealand.

Species focused on represent a majority ofthe seedlings now planted worldwide, initially including various eucalyptus and poplar species, radiata pine, loblolly pine and sweetgum. Targeted genetic improvements include herbicide-tolerant planting stock, higher growth rate, and improved fiber quality and uniformity.

Working Retail Gets Low Marks

With only nine retail companies making Fortune magazine's latest list of the "100 Best Places to Work," the industry appears to lag in promoting employee satisfaction, according to Moun Learning Systems.

"Retail firms were seldom regarded as great employers, but the Fortune study shows that some can do it right," says MoHn ceo Herb Cohen.

Attracting and retaining good employees are pressing concerns for many retailers today. "Poor morale and high turnover have become acute problems," Cohen explains. "There's more evidence that unhappy workers are bad for business and harm sales and customer loyalty. So the frequent indifference of retail companies is hard to fathom."

Retail is labor-intensive and service-oriented and associates have direct, personal contact with customers. "Nevertheless," he notes, "among senior management there's a prevailing attitude that associates are just hourly workers and are easily replaceable. They think: 'Why train them? They'll leave anyway."'

According to Cohen, Wal-Mart and the other ranked "retail companies do three things, and they're not gimmicks:"

r Compensation is generally highly competitive and may include stock options, which provide employees with a tangible stake in the company's success.

o By company policy, employee retention is a top priority and layoffs are avoided.

r A major commitment is made to employee education.

Company Execulive

Boise Cascade @rge J. Hara$''.

Cabot Samuel Bodman

Georgia-Pacffic Alston D. Conell

Louisiana-Pacific MarkA.Suwyn

Poflatch &hn fiil.,Hichards,,

Sherwin-Williams John G. Breen

'Wsyertracu$s . StevenR.Rogel

Willamette Ind. Duane lvlcDougall

&$ington Nor{urn npsertO.td*te

CSX John W. Snow

Nortolk Southern David R. CIsode

Owens-Corning Glen H. Hiner

StaftlBy Worft$ ,, John M. Tra*i

Temple-lnland Cliflord J. Grum

Tennm BanaG.M ,,

Union Pacific Richard Davidson

Black & Decker t-tolan Archibald

Payless Cashways Millard E. Barron

Exeeutive Gompensation

Lumbermen's Dream Cruise

The cruise is open to everyone in the lumber industry and their friends.

Membership in Hoo-Hoo is not required.

Come and join us on a Sea Cruise!

Enjoy a7-day cruise aboard Carnival Cruise Line's beautiful new ship, the Elation. We leave Los Angeles October 3,1999 and after two fun-filled days cruising down the Pacific coast, we arrive in Puerto Vallarta for the day, then it's north to Mazatlan, then Cabo San Lucas, and eventually, a leisurely sail back up to L.A.

Sail aboard the newest and largest ship ever to sail the Mexican Riviera! She's majestic. She's luxurious. And she has more design innovations than any other vacation resort on land or sea. You will see why passengers are elated.

The moment you step aboard the Elation, you'll be impressed by her spaciousness. Her lobby is the social centerpiece of a magnificent six-story Atrium. ThePlazaBar in the Atrium is a great place to rendezvous for drinks and listen to music. She has miles of deck for sunning and strolling, plus a huge outdoor entertainment area with three pools, six whirlpools and a spiral waterslide.

The Elation offers all the casino action and lavish entertainment of Las Vegas and the kind of spa facilities you'd find at Palm Springs' resorts. But this is a resort that takes you in style along the magnificent coast of Mexico. While you dine and dance or dream the night away, the Elation sails to Mexico's most popular resorts. Once there, she is the grand resort that awaits your return from watersports, dutyfree shopping and sightseeing. Cruise guests need not be members of Hoo-Hoo, the fraternal lumber industry organization.

Reserve your cabin today! Rates start from only $700 per person.

I 07th annual Hoo-Hoo International Convention

Oct. 3-10 . The Mexican Riviera Contact Cruise Center

(800) 454-7174. (253) 845-5330. Fax 253-845-5338

And please mention you heurd ahout it in Building Products Digest!

WORLD'S LARGEST verlical bandsaw was recently shipped by Tannewitz, Inc. Sixteen ft. high and 12 lt. wide, lhe saw cuts up to 72 inches lhick and 92 inches wide inside the throat. ll was designed to cut giant earth moving tires.

uqfles

James David Baldock, 56, owner and operator of Baldock Lumber & Farm Supply, Rich Pond, Ky., died of a heart attack March l6 in Bowline Green, Ky.

Carlton Baldock, his son, is now in charge of the business.

Robert Anthony Elmore, 31, vice president of Buzick Lumber & Home Center, Bardstown, Ky., died March I I in Bardstown.

A graduate of Georgia Tech University, he began working at Buzick Lumber & Home Center in 1990.

Redwood Decking Tips

A 160-p. book, AII Decked Oul..Redwood Decks, is $30 from the California Redwood Association, 405 Enfrente Dr., #200, Novato, Ca.94949: (415)382-0662.

Decorative Panels

An 8-p. brochure on thermally fused melamine dccorative panels is free from Stel Industries, Inc., 654 Milwaukee Ave. N., Algona, Wa. 98001; (253) 288-8801.

Construc'tion Superman

A new book, Easic Construction Management : The Superintendent's Job, is $35 from Home Builder Press, NAHB, l20l l5th St., NW, Washington, D.C. 20005; (800) 223-266s.

Shutter'em Up

A 32-p. satalog of shutters and handforged hardwarc is free from Timberlane Woodcrafters, 197 Wissahickon Ave., N. Walcc, Pa. l9454tQl5) 616-0600.

Aluminum Alumnl

An 8-p., four-color brochure on round, square and panel columns is free from Superior Aluminum Products, Inc., Box 430, Russia, Oh.45363; (937) 526-4065.

Pallet Use Training Video

The l0-min. video "Pallets Move the World...with Your Help" is $15.95 from the National Wooden Pallet & Container Association, 1800 N. Kent St., #911, Arlington, Ya. 22209; (703) 52'l -7667

Hit The Showers

Whirlpool bath and shower catalogs are free from Jacuzzi,2121 N. California Blvd., #475, Walnut Creek, Ca. 94596; (800) 288-4002.

Building Materials Software

For IBIE @mputr.rc

Destgred for buildin{ matertals retallers and wholesalers, tl:ls complete-system lnclude-s potnt of sale, order processlng, btllng, soptrlsticated prtctng (markup, markdovn, contract, quanUty breaks, etc.) accounts recelvable and credlt, lnventory control. purchasc order control, sales analysis, accounts payable, general ledger.

Easy to use, completely htegrateda single transactlon updates all relevant data. Call or wrlte:

Mass Sysfems Co., Inc.

14 Douglas Rd., Lexington, MA 02420

7 8l-67 4-1055 Email: massys@aol.com

ktcal Support Available

Clrcle No. 130 on p.38

Euery

of ony New literoture item by conlocting eoch compony directly...

ond pleose mention lhot you sow it in Building Products Digest!

Cabot Factory Finish is formulated exclusively for factory application and represents the latest technology in wood siding preservation. It is the best way to protect wood and engineered wood siding before installation. It also eliminates scheduling and weather delays. Cabot Factory Finish is applied to all four sidesofthe board, guaranteed for 15 years and adds unsurpassed beauty and protection to every siding project.

MACHINI' STAINING

150 Lumber Lane, Mt. Holly, N.C. 28120

Q0/.)8n-2839

FAX7W827-7721

(800) 204.66s3

O lttbalqhh.,N*hry,M

L,oad Beanflng 4$unnf,numn Goilumns

n Enduring Beouty

Lood Beoring Shucturol Strenglh

Remodeling, Replocement or New Conshuction

Prefinished (White, Almond, Sandstone)

Prime Cooted Eosy lnstollofion

Mointenonce Free

Lifefime Worronty

ogoinst Decoy n

Split, Insects

FullSelection of Column Sizes (Squore or Round), Plus Stqndord or Decorolive

Cops ond Boses Also... Aluminum ond

SteelClossic Spirol Stoirwoys

Golumnso[nG, Peorlond, Texos 77581

(28t) 485-3251

Mead Southem Wmd 27$6s97 2330256

Mellco, Inc...........................(800)

Prudential Building Materia|s..........................(800) 60C994S

South€ast Wmd Treatjn9...............................(800) 444-0409

Stringlellow Lumber Co., Inc..........................(800) 825-9400

Walker-Williams Lumber Co............,..............(800) 727-9007

Weyefiaeuser C0...............(800) 541-4825 (205) 381-3550

ArHrsrs

Anlhony Forest Products Co..........................($Nl 21-2326

Bean Lumber Co., cutl ......18cf]'2P-2326 (800) 482-2352

Hoover Treated Wood Produc1s.....................(800) 8i]2-9663

Lewis Lumber & Manufaclu.ing Co................(870) 387-2884

McEwen Lumber Co ......(501) 45G7480

US Timber C0.......... ......(800) 27G2609

Weyerhaeuser Co. ......(800) 6431515

White River Hardwoods .(800) 558-0119

Wronn Handling...... .......(800) 678-7200 fi.ortor

Aldne Engineer6d Products...........................(954) 781-33i15

Brungan Equipm€n|............(800) 8274153 (813) 623-6700

Building Products ol Am€rica.........................(800) 962-1518

Chamdon In|emationa|..................................(904) 731-4550

Fastening Specialbts Inc...............................(404 888-9099

Hmver Treated Wood Poduch, Inc..............(904) 25&781 8

McEwen Lumber Co. (Deliay Beadr) ............{561} 27S5155

McEwen Lumber Co. (Jacksonvillo)...............(9041 783-0170

McEwen Lumbor Co. (Odando) .....................(4on 299 4280

McEwen Lumbs Co. (Tampa)........................(813) 24&4111

Prudential Building Materials (Miami) ............(800) 1il2-7966

Prudential Building Materials (orlando).........(800) 432-2537

Robbins Mlg. (Ft. l'lyeu) ...(800) 330'221 I (941) 334-2219

Robbins Mfg. (Orlando) ......(800)a32{858 (404 29}0321

Robbins Mfg. (Tampa) ........(800) 282-93i,6 (813) 971-3030

Southeastem Metals Mlg. Co........................(904) 757-4200

Southem Pine Insp€ction Bureau...................(904) 434-2611

Tilrs$r

LumberCo.... ........(8001 5299957

Fofost Prodrc1s.......(800) 533-3176 (713) 44$1071

Tsxas Forcst Prodmls Prodrcts (Langboad)...............(8f4 $&5264

Sunbelt Maledal Handlhg...(8O0) 353-N92 (7701 ftg-2244

Univesal ForeS Protucis..............................(9t 21 985-8066

WdkerwillianF Lumber Co...........................(706) 323-4491

Weyerhaeus€r Co. ..............(800) 2U-3370 (104) 35t5971

Wrenn Handin9...................(800) 851{766 (20} 987-7666

Krnuqr

Glen Oak Lumbor A Miling............................18m) 242-8272

McEwen Lumbet Co ......(502) 96+9887

Weyerhaeuser Co. ..............(800) 7526032 (502) 368-33:11

lilHru

gder Fo.sst Produc{s .........(800) 25&7197 (318) 625-8141

Elder Lumber Co., Roy O...............................(800) 844-0615

gder Wood PressMng .......(eoo) 167-801 I (31 8) 964-21 96

Landry Lumber Sales, Riiad......................(318) 442-0453

Martin, Roy O.......... ......(800) 29$5171

McElroy Metal, lnc...............(888) s62-3576 (318) 747-8045

McEwen LumberCo ......(504) 542-2655

Southem Gull TruckinS..................................(318) 222-8106

Soulhem Pine Cqrncil ...................................(504) 44$4464

Weyerhaeussr Co. ..............(800) 783€806 (504) 73+6800 willamene Industrios .....(318) 25tr258

Supodor Shakos d Tsxas TemCelnland Forest Prodicls Corp.

Uroun

Chesapeake Hardrvmd Produds

RockyTop Wood Preseryer, |rc.................. Supreme

fied qds

Rates: 25 words for $25, additional words 70A ea. Phone number counts as I word, address as 6 words. Headline or centered copy, $6 per line. Private box or special border, $6 ea. Column inch

MIU' H3:r1?,:#""lliousron r.rorrheast

Gates Copeland

Allfees paid by employer

l4l2-A Stonehollow Dr. (28f) 359.7940 Kingwood,TX77339 Fxx28l-359-7947

E-Mail: gatelin@nol.net

The #1 Windowsrn and SQL-Seryerrr Lumber and Panel: Invenlory, Sales and Accounting Software for Sawmills Remanufacturers. Panel Plants Wholesalers / Distributors. Wood Treaters

LISA Lumber Systems

For More lnfornation ContactTerry Neal CallToll Free (888) 933-5472 emaillerry@lisalumber.mm

WANTED: Plywood/OSB strips, drops; sound, square, uniform, dry, thickness l/4 through 23132. Prcferrcd width, 3- l/2, 5-ll2 or wider. Length 32 to 96 inches or longer. Mixed ortruckload. Send price and availability to FAX ll90l-682-8501. or mail to: Lumber Source, 4746 Spottswood, Memphis, Tn. 381 17. Phone (888) 576-8723 (LSOURCE).

rate: $45 camera-ready, $55 if we set type. Send copy to 4500 Campus Dr., Ste.480, Newport Beach, Ca.92660-l872,FAX 949-852-0231 or call (949) 852-1990. Make checks payable to Cutler Publishing. Deadline: 20th of ea. month. Payment must accompany copy unless you have established credit with us.

To reply to ads with private box numbers, send correspondence to box number shown, in care of Building Products Digest, 4500 Campus Dr., Ste. 480, Newport Beach, Ca. 92660-1872. Names of advertisers using a box number cannot be released.

DON'T GET CAUGHT DEAD! Batteries and chargers for two-way radios, cellular phones, 30%-70% off retail. Nextel and AT&T digital phones. DPD, l-800-3739534, www.drumpoint.com.

Consistent sales growth

Loyal, active wholesale custorner base

Supplier to dynamic growing markes

Located in prime area ilhigh traffic

Poised for immediate growth

Est. 1998 Sales $3.5MM; EBITDA $230M

Contact Doug Smith st(602) 443-3461; Ref372E3E

SOUTHERN Foresl Producls Association spring committee meetings Apdl 15-16 in New Odeans, La.: (1) Chaiman of tr\e boad Ross Lampe, James Malphrus, Mike George. (2) Don Olson, Frank Robedson. (3) Huck DeVenzio, Scott Ramminger. (4) Josh Ty'er. (5) Ted & Karen Wagnon,

Gay Anthony. (6)Tom Jones, Ben Stimpson, Jr., Chip Hanigan. (7) George Guidry, Jr., Thedford Collins. (E) Richad Davis, Wlliam Almond. (9) David Kellam, Ramon Echenique. (10)Tami Kessler, Richard Wallace. ltulore plntos on rcxt pagel

ave money on your inventory by stocking cypress in place of redwood and cedar. This beautiful, versatile, all around species, for exterior and interior use, finishes better than cedar or redwood and is more stable than southern pine.

We millto your specs-any pattern siding, plus finish, S4S, fine bevel/bungalow sidings, 1" sidings, paneling, ceiling, wainscot stock and flooring. All kiln drled, from finish to common grades. No order too small.

CallCarey Elder at (800)25S7197

Center Circle, Sulphur, LA 70663

John Blades, Robert Booker. (11) Rick Green, E.J. Langley. (12) Steve Rountree, Steve Dean. (13) Jerry Nonis, Josh Nonis, David Haddock. (14) Edward & Elaine Galt, Ben Rooke. (15) Mark Junkins, Walt Wehrmann. (16) L9n Sibert, Bill Pooser. (17) Steve Anthony, Digges Morgan. (18) Jim Stann, Jim Loy, Bob Balfour. (19) Jerry Hingle, Tom Searles. (20) Joe Henley, Jr. (21) Joe Jernigan, Ken Nichenko.

Mnv 1999 BunlrNc

EAX to 949-852-0231

or call (949) 852-1990 or mail to Building Products Digest, 4500 Campus Dr., Suite 480, Newport Beach, Ca.926ffi-1872.

Building Products Digest - May L999

For more information on products or companies (see list at right), circle the appropriate Reader Service FAX Response number(s):

For more information from advertisers, use FAX Response nwnbersin brackets.

Adams Lumber Company 11131......-..?:2

Advantage Business Computer Systems

1f291.............. .Cover fV

American Pole & Timber Co. [12E]...3E

Anthony Forest Products Co. [119] ....29

Arrow Truck Sales [112]......................21

Barker Group, The [l5l .....................U

Bean Lumber Company, Curt [107].....t

Booth Lumber Company [116] ...........25

Bowie Sims Prange I105] .......................6

Britt Lumber Company [f 10] ............f9

Can Trim If 06l .......................................7

Columns, Inc. [1251

Crumpler Plastic Pipe, Inc. On|.......K

Distribution Management Systems, Inc. [1031.............. .-...........3

Elder Forest Products I1251................36

Elder Lumber Company, Inc., Roy O. t117I

Want to Subscribe? Check the appropriate boxes to begin receiving your monthly issues.

D I Year ($25) Q 2 Years ($4t; D 3 Years ($5S1

Q For Southern Retailers andWholesalers OnIy (Free) tr Bill Me D My Check Is Enclosed News or Comments? We welcome your ideas about particular articles, the magazine, or news of your company (promotions,

Greyson Lumber Corporation [123] .31

Haase Industries, Inc. (Magnetic hrsh Broom) If 211...................................3)

Hoo-Hoo International ........-.............32

Keadle Lumber En0erprises U201......30

LISA Lumber Systems, Inc. J1111.......26

Mass Systems Compeny, Inc" [130] ...33

Moultrie Manufacturlng [l(DI ............1t

Pacilic MDF Products [102]......Cover II

Rivensfde Machine Staining 112/1......33

Somerset Door & Column Co.[12i21..31

Spruce Computer Systems [U4].........23

Stringfellow Lumbcr Company LLC [108]

Swan Secure Products, Inc. [11E]-......2E

Wagner Electronic Products [1041.......5

Weyerhaeuser Co. [10U-..-........Cover I

Dealers Welcome

1.900-{60-7653

To ollendees of lhe Nolionol Building Producls Expo by odverlising in

EXPO PREUIEW

Whether or nol you're exhibiting ot the show, Expo Preview c0n show off your products to the thousonds of buyers ond decision-mokers ot the Notionol Building Products Expo.

Q THE ONLY PUBLICATION DEVOTED EXCTUSIVETY TO THE EXPO

While other magazines focus on the Expo's gargantuan sister show, the National Hardware Show, EXPO PREVIEW is devoted exclusivelylo the National Building Products Expo. Now that the Expo shares Mc0ormick Place with the Hardware Show, it's more important than ever to stand out among the thousands of exhibitors.

Q23o/o-59o/o SAVINGS

Allad rates in EXP0 PREVIEW have been discounted tron23% to 59% oll the combined, aheady-low rates in The Merchant Magazine and Building Products Digest, resulting in savings lrom $840 to $1380 for a single insertion!

O FREE FUIL-COLOR NEW PRODUCT STORY

When your ad runs in EXPO PBEVIEW, you will receive a free 4-color new product story! Just send a color photograph, a description of the product you want featured and we'll do the rest, absolutely ftee, exclusively for EXPO PREVIEW advertisers.

D REACH CURRENT AND PROSPECTIVE CUSTOMERS

EXPO PREVIEW appears in the August pre-show issues of both The Merchant Magazine and Building Products Digest, reaching 17,000 independent and chain retailers and wholesalers of lumber and building products. Catch their attention before they anive at the hectic Expo. Allin fullcolorl

D NATIONAT CIRCUTATION OF OVER 2O.OOO

ln addition to the 17,000 pre-show copies, an added 3,000 copies of EXPO PREVIEW will be distributed at the show to buyers from across the country. At no extra cost to you.

The only publication devoted excluslvely to the

8Y

Flexibility is often an overused buznryord in today's business climate. This is especially true for many of today's computer systems created for companies like yours.

Some computer systems advertise their flexible nature, but fail to mention the time and money required to achieve that flexibility. Many of these systems include expensive charges for each software upgrade. Custom features can cost thousands and take months to program.

At Advantage, we heard one message loud and clear from our customers: "build flexibilitv utilities with every system to help Ciqle No. 129 on p. 38

tailor the software to your needs. Custom features can be written quickly and efficiently. In fact, the database design makes it so easy to incorporate customer input we offer software upgrades free of charge!

If you're looking for a computer system su1 plier that can truly listen and respond to your needs without costing you an arm and a leg, cal Advantage today at 800-991-7283 or visit us at www.abcsinc.com. We think when it comes to discussing your business, you'll find we're all ea'

Advantoge: The Compater C-ampany WithThe krsonnlTouch.

"Hear ftis: if it takes six months ften it's nrobabl too latel'

"lf you think l'rn going to pay a service fee every vnonth then pag again for eacfr software upgrade, then you're not listening!'

"l won't ever haue anothel G0mputer system that can't gtow with my