THE

Feb/March 2006

0 ■ *•- SERVICE

0S9V

ii ur I I I NO

III MIN I • IL

I

11 MI : 11I MA 11 MI III III

MO • 'NZ 11•1111/11111INM sa•wa •asomi

In this issue. . . New President's Message 3 Ready for a Disaster? 4 Meet Darren Baxter 8 Convention Photos 12 Industry Calendar 17 Certified Plants 19

Go Nautical 1 With NCBVA N ED

in 2007 Details on page re Begun

Swihart

New President Darren Baxter (L) thanks outgoing president Graham MacLeod for his year of service to the association.

New Leaders Will Guide NCBVA Through 2006

Darren Baxter, Vice President of Operations for Baxter Burial Vault Company in Cincinnati, OH, was installed president of NCBVA at the 2006 Annual Convention in San Antonio, TX. Baxter is the 70th president to serve NCBVA since 1929 (some presidents served multiple terms). He was sworn in by Past President (1963) and NCB VA Plant Inspector Earl J. Brutsche, Jr., at closing ceremonies at the Westin Riverwalk Hotel following an event-filled two days with out-standing speakers, unlimited network-ing opportunities and an educational

plant tour of Suhor Industries. Martin Begun, American Vault and Concrete Products Corpo-ration, Detroit, MI, stepped into the position of President-Elect. Todd Swihart, Saginaw Wilbert Vault Corp., Saginaw, MI is Secretary/ Treasurer and Graham MacLeod stays on the Board of Directors as Past President. New Directors are: James Curran, Wilbert Funeral Services, Inc., Forest Park, IL, Doug Evans, Carolina Doric, Effingham, SC; and Jerry Russell, South-ern Ohio Vault, Portsmouth, OH.

Continuing their terms as Directors are: Warren Chandler, Master Grave Service, Inc. Bogart, GA; Michael Crummitt, Crummitt & Son Vault Co. Martins Ferry, OH; Linda Darby Sempsrott, Trigard Vaults / Greenwood Plastics, Danville, IL; Stephen Hatfield, Hicks Industries, Inc., Mulberry, FL; Hubert McQuestion, Lakeshore Burial Vault Co., Brookfield, WI; and Scott Watts, Watts Vault & Monument Co., Des Moines, IA.

Matthews CREMATION DIVISION

NCBVA BULLETIN February/March 2006

BEHIND EVERY SUCCESSFUL CREMATORY

IS A SUPPLIER WITH MULTIPLE SOLUTIONS.

Matthews Cremation Division represents over 100 years of

experience in human and animal cremation technology and our

equipment has set the standard of excellence for quality and

performance.With over 3,000 installations in 50 countries, we are

the oldest and largest manufacturer in the cremation industry.

From design through startup, our goal is to meet the demands

of crematories, funeral directors, cemetarians, veterinarians

and animal control facilities. We protect your interest and

make certain that your investment in cremation equipment is

supported with the foundation for long-term success.

A POWER-PAK II

kg

RELIABLE & EFFICIENT EQUIPMENT

SERVICE & REPAIRS

The Standard of Excellence in Cremation Solutions

URNS, SUPPLIES & MERCHANDISING <4E:>

www.matthewscremation.com • 1 - 8 0 0 - 3 2 7 - 2 8 3 1

National Concrete Burial Vault Association, Inc. 195 Wekiva Springs Rd., Suite 200

Longwood, Florida 32779 http://www.ncbva.org

(800) 538-1423 Fax: (407) 774-6751

President Darren Baxter

Baxter Burial Vault Service Cincinnati, OH

President-Elect Martin Begun

American Vault & Concrete Products Corp. Detroit, MI

Secretary/Treasurer Todd Swihart

Saginaw Wilbert Vault Corp. Saginaw, MI

Immediate Past President Graham MacLeod

Detroit Wilbert Vault Co. Detroit, MI 1 Directors

Warren Chandler Master Grave Service, Inc.

Bogart, GA

Michael Crummitt Crummitt & Son Vault Co.

Martins Ferry, OH

James Curran Wilbert Funeral Services, Inc.

Forest Park, IL

Linda Darby-Sempsrott Trigard Vaults / Greenwood Plastics

Danville, IL

Doug Evans Carolina Doric, Inc.

Effmgham, SC

Stephen Hatfield Hicks Industries, Inc.

Mulberry, FL

Hubert McQuestion Lakeshore Burial Vault Co.

Brookfield, WI

Jerry Russell Southern Ohio Vault Co.

Portsmouth, OH

Scott Watts Watts Vault & Monument Co.

Des Moines, IA

Executive Director Thomas A. Monahan, CAE

Certified Association Management Co. Longwood, FL

Legal Counsel J. Scott Calkins, Esq

February/March 2006 NCBVA BULLETIN 3

President's Message By Darren Baxter

A Strong Association Needs Everyone's Help William Wordsworth once said, "Life is divided into three terms—that which was, which is and which will be. Let us learn from the past to profit by the present and from the present to live better in the future."

T he highlighted quote by William Wordsworth is a good one to live by. That's why the foremost thing I would like to do is thank Graham MacLeod for all the time, energy and hard work he has devoted to the NCBVA. Without Graham's

and his wife Diana's support, the NCBVA would not be the excellent association it is today.

Our convention in San Antonio was marvelous. Everyone who attended had a wonderful time, although the weather was somewhat uncooperative. There were many things to see and do along the Riverwalk. The latest information provided by the suppliers was invaluable, the special speakers were quite motivational, and the ex-change of ideas between attendees was—as those ads on TV say—priceless. A special thanks goes to our team at Certified Association Management Company for organizing such a successful event.

I would like to thank all the suppliers and convention attendees for their continued bolstering of our association. I was moved by the support given by all the members attending. It was remarkable to me that every past president in attendance offered his assistance to me. This kind of support is testimony as to how this association performs and supports its members and constituents.

Business and personal relationships are so important. As president, I suggest that over the coming year we strengthen our association by concentrating on the following:

Furthering our relationship and investment in FAMIC;

Pursuing our best interests with ASTM International regarding concrete standards;

Promoting the association through the work of the committees, advertising the quality products we all sell, as well as the excellent services we provide; Strengthening government relations;

Exchanging information among members and suppliers;

Index of Advertisers

American Brilliance, Inc. 17 American Cemetery Supplies, Inc. .... 11 Axis Corporation 14 Crescent Bronze Powder Co. 7 D & C Supply Co., Inc. 7 Doric Inc. 21 Edgmont Metallic Pigment Co. 4 Holland Supply Inc. 15 Long Machine Co. 16 Matthews Cremation 2 Mixer Systems 18 Plastic Plaque, Inc. 21 Romix Chemical & Brush 5 Trigard Vaults 10 W. C. Cardinal 21 Wilbert, Inc. 22

Looking out for our members by offering advice and support whenever possible.

In addition, we have an amazing resource in the Plant Certification Pro-gram, which could not be done without the expertise of Earl Brutsche. This effective program should be fully utilized. We will look into making a new directory for our members and suppliers. As our association grows, so should the infor-mation in our directory. Thanks to the advice of J. Scott Calkins, Esq., we will keep a watch on legal issues.

Thank you all for your vote of confidence and support of my presidency. It is an honor to lead the NCBVA. If you have any questions, suggestions or ideas that you'd like to share, please feel free to contact me at 513-641-1010.

METALLIC VAULT COATINGS

Metapure Dust-Free Pellets

Metalink Technology for One-Part Coatings

New High-Shine Copper, Gold and

Silver Pigments: Mirraflake Grades

Quality Glitters, Spray Cans, Bronzing Liquids

We Appreciate Our Burial Vault Customers

Dedicated to being the best supplier for the industry in

burial vault coatings!

610-429-1345

West Chester, PA

EDGMONT METALLIC•PIGMENT•INC.

4

NCBVA BULLETIN

February/March 2006

Could Your Business Recover From Disaster? By: J. Scott Calkins, Esq. NCBVA Counsel Writing this article from Naples, Florida helps me understand and appreciate what we read in the newspapers articles and watched

on television. I have now personally seen what hundreds of businesses have suffered in the past two years from the devastating hurricanes. In many instances, the tragic loss suffered by small and large businesses alike was because they were not prepared for such a disaster.

Could your business recover from a disaster? With the devastating hurricanes still fresh in our minds, every business owner should be asking,

"Could my vault business survive a disaster?" Every business is vulnerable to natural disasters such as fires, floods, tornadoes, hurricanes and earthquakes. However, advance preparation can minimize your exposure in several ways.

A recent edition of the newsletter issued by the Federated Funeral Directors of America, an organization that has provided

Every business is vulnerable to natural disasters. Would you be prepared if something like this happened?

business services to the funeral profession since 1925, gives the following recommendations:

Physical assets. Buildings, equipment, inventories and supplies should all be protected by adequate property and casualty insurance. Review each policy for "named perils" which are the disasters covered (such as floods or earthquakes). If your location is prone to one of the "perils" not listed, consider expanding your coverage or buying an additional policy to include it. Records. Missing records can make it hard to quantify your disaster losses. Duplicates of financial statements, inventories, and other important data should be maintained in a secure off-site location and updated regularly. Computers. Critical computer data should be duplicated regularly on portable hard drives or other storage media and stored off-site. Recovery. Consider buying "extra expense" insurance to cover relocation costs for a quick post-disaster recovery. Also, you should identify alternative sources of operating assets (such as equipment and furniture) and investigate other possible business locations.

If you haven't experienced a disaster in your area that caused major damage to your plant and equipment, be thankful. But don't rely on a disaster not visiting your area. I am sure that many of you have talked with a vault manufacturer who has experienced a disaster and have learned that preparedness is essential to recovery and continuation of the business.

It would be very helpful if any of you reading this article could provide NCBVA with information regarding your recovery from a disaster that could be printed in The Bulletin. Help your fellow vault manufacturer, by sharing your experience and advice.

Trigard's Linda Darby-Sempsrott and Blake Swinford present scholarships to winners Raquel Santos and Dana A. Kelly-White from Ivy Tech.

Limited edition bronze medals were handed out at the ICFA Convention.

February/March 2006 NCBVA BULLETIN

5

HIGH PERfORMANCE

CONCRETE RELEASE AGENT

Non-Hazardous

Non-Toxic

Environmentally Safe

Eliminates Bug Holes

Prevents Build-up on Forms

Re-Active Agent

Biodegradable

Use on Aluminum, Steel, Plywood, and Fiberglass

Use as Anti-Stick Agent on Related Equipment

Toll Free: 800-331-2243 Fax: 817-685-0877

E-Mail: RoMix@sprynet.com www.romixchem.com

tiii 1 RoMix

CHEMICAL and BRUSH INC. CUSTOM FORMULATORS

MANUFACTURING CHEMIST

Trigard Invests in the Future With Mortuary Scholarships Because Trigard believes in investing in our future, they present scholarships to Mortuary Science students throughout the United States. Scholarship winners are chosen based on three criteria: financial need, scholastic aptitude and knowledge of the burial vault industry. All applicants are required to write a short paper on the value of a burial vault.

Trigard's Linda Darby-Sempsrott and Blake Swinford give a presentation to each school that they visit, not only giving insight on burial vaults in general, but also challenging the students to raise the bar in the funeral industry. "We think that it is important to give the students the information, and then have them go out to the marketplace and find out for themselves if it is true," states Linda Darby-Sempsrott.

The most recent recipients of $250 Trigard Scholarship were Ivy Tech students Raquel Santos and Dana A. Kelly-White. Other scholarship winners from this year include Lori Anne Masonia and Robert Scott Kuvin from Mid-America College of Funeral Service in Jeffersonville, IN, and a donation to Southern Illinois University's Mortuary Science School in Carbondale.

Olympic Bronze "Raises the Bar" at ICFA Dwight Stones,Two-time Olympic bronze medalist, made a personal appearance with

Trigard at the ICFA National Convention in Las Vegas this month where he signed free limited edition bronze medallions to celebrate the tradeshow introduction of a new

Trigard Engraved Bronze product. Stones has literally raised the bar and set the

standards for the track and field world. He has won 19 National Championship titles, held the world high jump record 10 times and the American record 13 times. As 2006 Winter Olympics Commentator, Stone celebrated his 29th anniversary in television and his 10th Olympic Games participation.

"We feel that Trigard Engraved Bronze has continually raised the bar through innovation, personalization and education. Dwight Stones has made "raising the bar" his lifelong goal both on and off

the track, and we can't think of a better definition of what Trigard represents," said COO Rich Darby.

6 NCBVA BULLETIN February/March 2006

Why an Arlington Burial Takes So Long

As the superintendent of Arlington National Cemetery I am often asked why it takes so long for loved ones to be buried or inurned in Arlington, with services sometimes occurring weeks after a death.

There are many answers to this question, but let me begin with the basics. The staff of the cemetery must establish eligibility for everyone who is interred or inurned. In order to establish eligibility we request, from the family, a copy of the service member's report of separation, or DD 214. Once eligibility has been established, the next challenge is finding a date and time in the burial schedule that will accommodate the family's requirements and meet the availability of the military assets who will support the service.

At Arlington there are three levels of funerals. Full military honors, which consist of a band, escort troops, caisson, firing party, casket team, bugler and chaplain, upon request. Full military honors are available to any officer, some sergeants major and Medal of Honor Recipients. Standard Honors are available to any former member of the Armed Forces, regardless of rank. These honors consist of a casket team, firing party, bugler and chaplain, upon request. In general, standard honors are easier to obtain and the services can be conducted in a timelier fashion from the date of establishing eligibility. The final level of honors is for non-service members, consisting of a casket team to carry the remains and a chaplain upon request.

Another thing to consider is that each branch of service has different capabilities within their units as to the number of funerals that can be conducted simultaneously. In general, the Army has the most capability and often conducts two to three services simultaneously, whereas, the other branches of service can generally only conduct one service at a time.

Our next major hurdle is that of religious support. One of the major reasons for long funeral delays is requesting a chapel service. The chapel may be used by anyone who is being interred or inurned at Arlington National Cemetery. The chapel service at Fort Myer is limited to a 20 minute service unless the individual is celebrating a Catholic Mass or Orthodox Service, requiring more time to conduct religious rites. Due to limited availability, the

request of having a chapel service before the burial adds a significant waiting time when scheduling the service.

I encourage family members to consider conducting their own religious service in their house of worship as opposed to using the facility at Fort Myer. The same problem rests when requesting a military chaplain. If time is a consideration, it is always easiest to bring your own rabbi, priest or minister to conduct your grave site or chapel service.

The final area of consideration is that of military assets. While funerals at the cemetery are the primary mission for the ceremonial units assigned to support burials at Arlington, and each branch of service is committed to providing these resources

as often as possible, they also have other challenges that are unique, dependent upon their branch of service. Additional missions and internal requirements, such as change of command, retirements, promotion ceremonies, official arrival ceremonies, training and compensation to the Soldiers for working irregular workweeks in support of missions beyond Arlington National Cemetery, all contribute to non-availability. It should also be noted that there are only two caisson units provided by the Old Guard, United States Army, 3rd U.S. Infantry and they are shared by all

branches of the military. The capabilities of these caissons are four funerals each per day for a total of eight. It should also be noted that no branch of service can perform two full honors at the same time.

If burial of your loved one for religious or personal reasons is an item that must be conducted as soon as possible after the death, the cemetery will work with the family to accomplish this, but please understand this will entail a modification of honors that may be normally entitled to the deceased service member. The policy at Arlington National Cemetery is to conduct funerals on a "first come first served" basis regardless of rank, branch of service or religious beliefs. Special consideration is currently being given to those members of the Armed Forces who were killed fighting the war on terrorism.

Finally, Arlington National Cemetery, as well as the Soldiers' and Airmen's Home National Cemetery, are administered by the Department of the Army and have unique eligibility requirements specifically designated for each of these national cemeteries. I invite readers of this article to visit our Web site (www.arlingtoncemetery.org ) for eligibility questions or general 11,,,i01 information regarding policies and procedures for burial at the cemetery.

By John Metzler ANC Superintendent

This article was published at dcmilitary.com by Comprint Military Publications as a service

to the Washington, D.C. area military community.

Arlington burial with full military honors

Go Nautical With NCBVA February 2007

Yes, it's a year away, but not too early to budget and plan to join your colleagues on an exciting Cruise Convention. NCBVA's last sailing in 2000 was one of the highest attended functions ever!

Departing February 15, 2007 from Miami, FL, we'll board Royal Caribbean's newest, most innovative ship, The Freedom of the Seas, for this seven-day, six-night adventure. Ports of call include Cozumel, Mexico; George Town, Grand Cayman; Montego Bay, Jamaica and Labadee, Hispaniola.

The Freedom of the Seas, which will be completed in June for its inaugu-ral sailing, has such innovative features as a rock climbing wall and an ice skating rink!

Visit the NCBVA Web site www.ncbva.org to view the ship's floor plan, obtain rates, register on line or link to The Freedom of the Seas Web site.

CENTER-RITE VAULT MESH 2 X 2V2 xl 6ga. GAL. 28" X 300' ROLL

12.5 ga. TANK MESH many other sizes and gauges also available

1/4" DEFORMED PENCIL ROD for VAULT LIDS

EDGE-RITE SYNTHETIC FIBER

STEEL FIBER

All available from

D & C Supply Company, Inc. 335 Washington Ave. Bridgeville, PA 15017

Phone: 1-800-234-5781 or 412-221-1191

Fax: 412-221-9206

Your Source For Concrete Reinforcements

Vault Master paints. I he quaLy you demand, the speed you need.

Vault Master paints provide consistently beautiful finishes, job after job. And our new, improved water-based formula covers in one coat, saving you time and labor costs.

Metallics White and Black

Also available: Glitter Metallic Powders and Pastes Bronzing Liquids, Spray Cans

See for yourself. Call or write for our Metallic Vault Master Color Card or samples. 1-800-445-6810

(

Crescent Bronze Powder Co., Inc.

The Metallic Products Specialist

3321 County Road A Oshkosh, WI 54901 Fax: 920-231-8085

February/March 2006

NCBVA BULLETIN 7

8

NCBVA BULLETIN February/March 2006

Meet NCBVA's New President

Baxter Brings Youth & Experience to New Role

In addition to playing basketball and hunting, Darren enjoys participating in the Scottish Highland games. He cuts a dashing figure in his kilt.

D arren Baxter, who became president of NCBVA at the annual convention last month, brings a new generation of thinking to the leadership of the association. But just because Darren's a young man doesn't mean he's

inexperienced. Although still in his thirties, Darren has already logged 13 years in the family's 82-year-old business. Full-time years, that is. He's actually been involved in the plant for most of his life.

"The company was founded by my grandfather, Donald E. Baxter, 82 years ago. My Dad (Doug Baxter) started bringing me to the plant when I was six years old," says Darren, "and I started working here part-time when I was 15."

Currently, Darren is Vice President of Operations, and believes he's handled just about every job in the plant. Other family members work

with him in management: His father, Doug, is President of the company; his sister Holly is Vice President of Sales & Marketing; and Trevor, his younger brother, is Director of Business Development.

Baxter Burial Vault produces approximately 7,000 burial vaults a year, in addition to other death-care industry products, such as markers and bases. From its location in Cincinnati, the company serves an area of about 45 - 50-mile radius, working in the state of Ohio mostly, but also crossing the river into Kentucky.

Baxter Burial Vault has been housed at its current location since it had to relocate to make way for the construction of 1-75 more than 40 years ago. The company's original location now rests under an 1-75 ramp. A total of 26 people are employed on staff: there are two foremen; seven people work in manufacturing; 10 in delivery; and two work in the office.

A Wilbert franchise since 1969, the company also carries a line of Clark vaults.

This photo emphasizes the fact that Darren and Michelle both say, "We are having a ball" with Davide Cacciatori, a high school exchange student from Italy who's staying with them for the school year.

February/March 2006 NC BVA BULLETIN 9

A Day at the Plant Darren, who studied business at the University of Cincinnati, says there are no great secrets to the success of Baxter Burial

r 1Vault. "We just try to treat each customer as a family member," he says. "That covers it all." His cell phone makes him ac-cessible to customers and staff 24 hours a day. On a typical day at the plant, Darren arrives at 6:10 a.m. to oversee the day's scheduling, make any changes in deliveries, dispatch drivers and oversee vault production.

"The majority of our business is set and seal," explains Darren, "with very few drop-offs. We set the vault in the ground using Logan trailers, then seal the vault properly after the funeral services are completed."

Baxter Burial Vault has also provided cremation services since 1982. Darren notes that demand for cremations has remained steady, with a slight increase over the years.

The "treat them like family" philosophy extends to the company's employees, too. This policy helps keep valuable, dependable staff. Many of the company's employees have worked at Baxter Burial Vault for more than 11 years.

Home Improvement When he's not at the plant, Darren likes to shoot a few hoops or go on an occasional hunting trip. He's been married to Michelle

— for seven-and-a-half years, and says he enjoys home im-

provement projects, too. Together, the couple gets a big kick out of participating in Scottish Highland games. Interested in people, the couple has opened their home to Davide Cacciatori, a teenager from Italy who's going to high school in Cincinnati. "We're having a ball, and learning a lot from each other," Darren says of the experience. "When this year is over, I think we'd like to host another exchange student."

NCBVA & Professionalism Staying involved with other professionals in the death-care industry has been a tradition for the Baxter family. Doug has served on the Board, and Darren has been a director and has been working up through the offices since 1998. "Over the years, the NCBVA has provided a great avenue for people in our business to share problems, solutions and new ideas. We have developed almost extended-family relationships with other NCB VA members we've met at the

annual conventions. When you want to find someone who truly understands this intense business and can give you advice on how to improve your operations, you can turn to an NCBVA member," says Darren.

"Working together is the only way we can continue to im-prove our services and our reputation," he continues. "One of the biggest threats to our industry today is misrepresentation by the 'pre-need' salespeople of what a burial vault is. It's a challenge to educate the public about the characteristics of a good burial vault and why it's important to them and their loved ones to choose a burial vault."

Baxter Burial Vault 909 E. Ross Ave. Cincinnati, OH Phone 513-641-1010 FAX 513-641-0470

The Year Ahead What's the year ahead going to be like with Darren as NCBVA President? Well-grounded in experience gained through the family business, one can expect him to keep an open mind. He plans to lead with the wisdom of the past, accompanied by a bright, youthful outlook for the future.

Shown under the Baxter awning are (left to right)Terry Renner, Plant Manager; Tom Frondorf, Delivery Manager; Darren Baxter, Vice President of Operations; and Darren's father, Doug Baxter, Owner.

Standing in front of the vaults are (left to right) Jan Kuhnhein, Bookkeeper; Doris Fay, Office Manager; Darren's brother, Trevor Baxter, Director of Business Development; and Darren's sister, Holly Baxter Bridges, Vice President of Sales and Marketing.

Ethan Kyle

TRIGARD ..„ August 3. 1984

10 NCBVA BULLETIN February/March 2006

Raising the Bar In as Vegas - 2006 ICFA National Convention

and Television Sports Commentator and receive a FREE limited edition autographed bronze medal. Visit www.trigard.com for details.

THE COLUMN NICHE AND TRIGARD ENGRAVED BRONZE A Beautiful and Profitable Addition to Enhance any Cemetery or Funeral Home

RYNN M. BERGIN

Two proven and successful products from Trigard team up to provide cemeteries and funeral homes another source of revenue as a result of the ever increasing demand for cremation. The Column Niche provides a versatile and economic solution to previously unusable areas of cemeteries and is avail-able in a variety of sizes and colors. Trigard continues to be your source for cremation by offering a wide selection of memorials and urns.

Toll Free: 1.800.637.1992

Trigard Engraved Bronze creates beautiful memorials, niche plates and urns from your per-sonal photographs. Warm woods, classic marbles, contemporary ceramics, highlight a comprehensive selection of urns.

For more information on the complete line of quality Trigard products, please visit our website or call our customer service department and they will be

happy to assist you.

Website: www.trigarcl.com

ENGRAVED BRONZE

Manufacturer of: Tents • Grass • Chair Covers • Tarps

Drapes • Lowering Devices Casket Roller Bars

Casket Stands and Cremation Stands and many other items

Distributor of: Flags • Chairs

Frigid Lowering Devices

February/March 2006 NCBVA BULLETIN 11

American Cemetery Supplies, Inc. 1-800-515-0400 Fax (757) 488-1589

Your Total Vault Supplier High Quality • Low Prices

Providing Solutions for the Burial Vault Industry.... TraxPlus TM will protect the cemetery lawn

from damage by eliminating ruts and reseeding.

TraxPlus TM is made from a composite fiberglass material

that is strong enough to "bridge" over soft ground areas.

Call for more information.

Mention this ad and receive additional discounting off your order of TraxPlusTm.

Protect Your Cemetery Lawns with Portable Roadway Systems Composite Mats

Starting at $118 each.

12 NCBVA BULLETIN February/March 2006

2006 Annual Col S ---1 A

• ,

Chatgoil intc .• .

February/March 2006 NCBVA BULLETIN 13

ivention & Exposition nta, TX

New Frontiers

14 NCBVA BULLETIN February/March 2006

THE LOGAN VAULT HANDLER By Axis Corporation

PROVIDING SERVICE AND REALIBILTY FOR OVER 40 YEARS

THE LOGAN VAULT HANDLERS ARE MANUFACTURED WITH ONLY NEW BRAND NAME PARTS—NOT USED OR RE-MANUFACTURED. This gives you

better dependability and longer life of your Handler. OUR NEW 3/4 TON AXLE is manufactured narrower than the standard 3/4 ton truck axle to allow for more maneuverability in the Cemetery.

The Logan Vault Handler can handle both straight and cross grave settings. The Logan is equipped with hydraulic variable speed Forward and Reverse, also a High and Low range

gearbox STANDARD,

STRENGTH LS NOT IN Tiff STEEL ALONE N A VAULT HANDLER; IT IS IN THE DESIGN The Logan was designed to withstand the stress of a heavy load and yet light enough not to tear up turf in the

Cemetery. The Logan was designed over 40 years ago and has seen many improvements in maneuverability and efficiency. The Logan Vault Handler is designed to give you optimum power using reliable parts and

durable construction. It has been tested, beaten, used and abused for over 40 years. The Logan always was and still is the benchmark of Vault Handling equipment, And that is why we are the

Standard of the Industry CALL US TODAY FOR OPTIONS, PRICING OR A FREE VIDEO TAPE

AXIS cORPORA770N P.O Box 068 BELLEFONTAINE OHIO 43311 1-800-422-AXT5(2947) FAX 1-937-592-5230 salesOaxisaarvoration.com www.axisconaoration.com BUY DIRECT FROM THE MANUFACTURER

Holland Oval Tents

:11\

Holland SUPPLY INC.

The Company that Listens. 1326 Lincoln Ave. • Holland, MI 49423 Phone 616-396-4678 • 1-800-527-8818 • FAX 616-396-9543 WWW.HOLLANDSUPPLYINC.COM sales@hollandsupplyinc.com

We would like to thank the hundreds of vault dealers who have made Holland their supplier of choice. We value your business

February/March 2006

NCBVA BULLETIN 15

HOLLAND SUPPLY, INC. 1-800-527-8818

Serving the Burial Vault Industry since 1962

Holland manufactures a complete line of graveside set up equipment. Our commitment is to offer you "The Best Value on the Market."

Holland 15' x 15' & 15' x 20' Tents

* Tent frame fittings guaranteed for life. Strongest aluminum frames in the industry.

* Tent peak and corners with 4 layers of reinforcement. Straps & hooks with 3 layers of reinforcement.

* Tops made to fit your frame.

Holland Supply now manufactures a complete line of oval tops, frames and parts. Interchangeable with Steril tops, frames and parts. Same quality and experience you've come to expect from Holland Supply.

Call for your Vault Dealer SALE PRICES on these and all our setup products.

Best prices on Frigid devices.

Device straps in all sizes.

No-fray binding on our grass.

Excellent Quality + Unsurpassed Service + Aggressive Prices = Better Value

16

NCBVA BULLETIN

February/March 2006

Vault-Master VHV

oofke L%

MORE. . . . STANDARD FEATURES

MORE. . . . LIFTING CAPACITY

MORE. . . . VERSATILITY

MORE. . . . OPTIONS

LESS COST FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT:

DON OR BRYAN LONG

LONG MACHINE CO. 519 N. MAIN AVE., MAIDEN, NC 28650-1123

(828) 428-2648 • FAX (828) 428-8606

Richard Horsell

Brings 20 Years of Experience in

Supplying Decorative Metallic Pigments

and Coatings to the

Burial Vault Industries.

Hi-Gloss Vault Powders

Antique Powders

Solvent-Base Bronzing Liquids

Water-Base Bronzing Liquids

One-Part Ready-Mix Coatings

Water-Base Top/Base Coats

Fast personal Service

Dependable Quality

SERVICING ALL OF THE

U.S. AND CANADA

Give us a chance to serve you and build a long standing relationship

AmericanBrilliance, Inc.

610 * 725 * 1660 3 Pennsylvania Avenue • Malvern, Pennsylvania

February/March 2006

NCBVA BULLETIN

17

2006 Industry Calendar

March 13-16

ICFA Annual Convention & Expo The Venetian Las Vegas, NV

April 5-8

Int' I Order of the Golden Rule The Westin Harbour Castle Toronto, Ontario, Canada

April 15-18

Cremation Assn. of North America Annual Convention Royal Pacific Resort Orlando, FL

August 6-11 NFD&MA Radisson Plaza Hotel & Myrtle Beach Convention Center Myrtle Beach, SC

August 15-18

Cremation Assn. of North America Royal Pacific Resort Orlando, FL

October 1-6

Selected Independent Funeral Homes Wynn Las Vegas Hotel Las Vegas, NV

October 15-18

National Funeral Directors Assn. 2006 Convention & Expo Pennsylvania Convention Center Philadelphia, PA

Aussies Just Can't Go Anywhere Without Their Cellular Phones! Death is no obstacle to the deep and enduring bond many Australians share with their mobile phones. According to an article on an Aussie Web site, an increasing number of people are bidding farewell to their loved ones, who have their mobile phones by their

side. One Melbourne funeral director reportedly said that he had come across the request three times recently. "It's the idea that 'Mum loved her mobile phone and was never off it, so we thought we would put it in with her,' that makes

people think of it," he said. Of 20 million Australians, more than 18

million own mobile phones. There are rules for including a mobile phone in a

coffin, the report said. Funeral directors insist that for burial, the line must be dead, and for cremation, the battery must be removed to avoid explosions.

Designed for

18 NCBVA BULLETIN February/March 2006

Batch plants, mixers and related equipment, material handling and more — Mixer Systems is the name concrete product producers know and trust.

Mixer Systems Econobatch plant is: flexible — wide range of component choices and configurations to fit your EXACT need.

Accurate & Consistent — state-of-the-art load cells and computerized control means no more rejected batches.

Low Maintenance — few moving or mechanical parts to wear out and key parts are accessible for ease of service. Also, Mixer offers single-source responsibility. We design, manufacture and service all plant components and back them with a one-year product warranty.

To build your perfect plant lust give us a call at 800 156-4931

Mixer Systems, Inc. 190 Simmons Avenue • P.O. Box 10 • Pewaukee, WI 53072-0010

Phone: (262) 691-3100 • Fax: (262) 691-3184 email: into@mixersystems.com • www.mixersystems.com

NCBVA Certified Vault Manufacturing Plants NCBVA proudly recognizes the following companies

that have a current standing in the Plant Certification Program

Abel Vault & Monument Co. Canton, IL

Abel Vault & Monument Co. Pekin, IL

American Concrete Industries Veazie, ME

American Vault Co. Cleveland, OH

Arnold-Wilbert Corp. Goldsboro, NC

Arrow Vault Co., Inc. Lafayette, IN

Atlas Concrete Products, Inc. Orlando, FL

Babylon Vault Co. New Windsor, MD

Badger Burial Vault Co. Eau Claire, WI

Baumgardner Products Co. Akron, OH

Baxter Burial Vault Cincinnati, OH

Baxter Vault Co. Baxter Springs, KS

Beck Vault Co. Rome, NY

Brewster Vaults & Monuments Millville, NJ

Brown-Wilbert, Inc. Morris, MN

Brown-Wilbert, Inc. St. Paul, MN

Bruns Norwalk Vault Co. St. Louis, MO

Brutsche Concrete Products Battle Creek, MI

Brutsche Concrete Products Benton Harbor, MI

Buckeye Vault Service Mansfield, OH

Bush Concrete Products, Inc. Muskegon, MI

C & M Precast Kerrville, TX

Calumet Wilbert Vault Co. Inc. Gary, IN

Carolina-Doric, Inc. Florence, SC

Central Burial Vaults, Inc. Marlow, OK

Central Burial Vaults, Inc. Oklahoma City, OK

Central Burial Vaults, Inc. Tulsa, OK

Central New York Vault Co. Cortland, NY

Century Vault Co., Inc. West Bamstable, MA

Charleston Wilbert Summerville, SC

Cheboygan Cement Products Co. Cheboygan, MI

Chesapeake Burial Vault Co. Ingleside, MD

Christy Vault Co., Inc. Colma, CA

Columbus-Beier Vaults Columbus, WI

Cooper Wilbert Vault Co. Middletown, DE

Cordeiro Vault Co., Inc. Vallejo, CA

Costello & Company Vaults Smith Falls, Ontario, Canada

Creter Vault Corp. Remington, NJ

Crummitt & Son Vault Corp. Martins Ferry, OH

D.G. Robertson, Inc. Williston, VT

Dardanelle Vault & Monument Dardanelle, AR

Delaware Valley Vault Co., Philadelphia, PA

DePue Wilbert Vault Savannah, GA

Deihl Vault & Precast Co. Orangeville, PA

Detroit Wilbert Vault Corp. Detroit, MI

Doody Burial Vaults, Inc. Winchendon, MA

Doric Concrete Vaults Inc. Garden City, KS

Doric Concrete Vaults, Inc. Great Bend, KS

Doric Concrete Vaults Inc. Osage City, KS

Doric Huntingburg Vault Co. Huntingburg, IN

Doric of Kansas Vault Iola, KS

Doric of Nashville, Inc. Nashville, TN

Doric of Northeast Arkansas Jonesboro, AR

Doric of South Texas Elsa, TX

Doric Concrete Vaults Limon, CO

Doric Concrete Vaults, Inc. Newton, KS

Doric Manufacturing Co. Boaz, AL

Doric Mississippi, Inc. Vicksburg, MS

Doric-South, Inc. Demopolis, AL

Doric Vault of Eastern NY, Inc. Hudson, NY

Doric Vault of Western NY, Inc. Depew, NY

Doric Vault Co. Griffin, GA

Dura Vault North Bend, OH

Eagle Burial Vault Co. of LA Ruston, LA

Eagle Burial Vaults Perry, GA

Esterly Burial Vault Co. West Reading, PA

Evans Eagle Vaults, Inc. Leola, PA

Everlasting Vault Co. Randallstown, MD

Florida Wilbert, Inc. Jacksonville, FL

Fon du Lac Wilbert Vault Fon du Lac, WI

Forsyth Bros. Fithian, IL

Fort Myers Wilbert Vault Service Fort Myers, FL

Forsyth Bros. Concrete Prod. Terre Haute, IN

Gettysburg Burial Vault Co. Gettysburg, PA

Golden Eagle Vault Co. Rocky Mountain, VA

Grable Vault Co. Logansport, IN

Graffius Burial Vault Co. Sinking Springs, PA

Granite State Doric Newport, NH

Gray Bros., Inc. Kansas City, KS

Hairfield Vault Co. Hickory, NC

Hardy Doric, Inc. Chelmsford, MA

Ham n Vault Service Massillon, OH

Harris Precast Laporte, IN

Heilman — Wirtz, Inc. Cedar Hill, TX

Hicks Industries, Inc. Miami, FL

Hicks Industries, Inc. Mulberry, FL

Horton Precast Gerard, PA

J.P. Vincent & Son, Inc. Galena, IL

Jacson, Inc. Henderson, TX

Jefferson Concrete Corp. Watertown, NY

Josten Wilbert Vault Co. Sioux Falls, SD

Kansas City Wilbert Grandview, MO

Lakeshore Burial Vault Co. Brookfield, WI

Lavaca Vault Co. Lavaca, AK

Louise11-Davis Vault Service Chattanooga, TN

Ludlow Burial Vault Co. Ludlow, MA

Lycoming Burial Vault Co. Inc. Montoursville, PA

Marion Vault Works Marion, IN

Markham Burial Vault Services Richmond, VA

Markham-Carter Vault Service Smithfield, VA

Master Grave Service Athens, GA

McDowell Doric Vault Co. Fletcher, NC

Memphis Burial Vault Co. Memphis, TN

Mercer Vault Company Fredericksburg, VA

Milan Burial Vault, Inc. Milan, MI

Minnick Services Corp. Fort Wayne, IN

Montgomery Vault Co. Woodsboro, MD

Montgomery Vault Co. Rockville, MD

Moore Wilbert Vault Co. Evans, GA

Murray Vault Co. Austin, AR

Neher Burial Vault Co. Springfield, OH

Nor-Don Vault Co. Inc. Strafford, MO

North Central Mich. Vault Srvc. Cadillac, MI

Norwalk Vault Co. Johnstown, PA

Odon Vault Company, Inc. Odon, IN

Omaha Wilbert Vault, Inc. Omaha, NE

Ostwalt Vault Co. Concord, NC

Palm Vault Co. Ada, OK

Patriot Vault Co. Park Hills, MO

Panhandle Vaults Wellington, TX

Pennyslvania Concrete Vault Co. Greensburg, PA

Perfection Vault Woodson, IL

Phenix Vault Phenix City, AL

continued ...

For information on NCB VA's exclusive Plant Inspection and Certification Program, please contact NCBVA Headquarters at 1-800-538-1423 or use application form on the next page.

February/March 2006 NCBVA BULLETIN 19

NCBVA Certified Vault Manufacturing Plants (Continued)

Pioneer Vault, Inc. Doylestown, PA

Poplar Bluff Doric Vaults, Inc. Poplar Bluff, MO

Precast Concrete Products, Inc.

Blissfield, MI Precision Precast Inc.

Pittsfield, MA Quality Burial Vault Co.

Houston, TX Rex Vault Service

Newton, IL Rocky Mountain Monument/ Vault

Sandy, UT Roland-Wilbert Vault Co.

Marion, IA Saginaw Wilbert Vault Corp.

Saginaw, MI Sam Green Vault Co.

Lynchburg, VA St. Louis Wilbert Vault Co.

St. Louis, MO Saline Vault Co.

Sweet Springs, MO Simerly Concrete Products, Inc.

Bristol, TN Santeiu Vaults Inc.

Livonia, MI

Sheldon Vault Co. Sheldon, IA )

Shenandoah Valley Vaults, Inc. Dayton, VA

Shore Vault & Precast Co. Exmore, VA

Simerly Vaults, Inc. Knoxville, TN

Southern Ohio Vault Co. Portsmouth, OH

Southern Vault Service Blakely, GA

Spoerr Precast Concrete Sandusky, OH

Sunnycrest, Inc. Auburn, NY

Suhor Industries Cedar Hill, TX

Suhor Industries Parsons, KS

Suhor Industries San Antonio, TX

Sunnycrest, Inc. Auburn, NY

Superior Burial Vaults, Inc. Salt Lake City, UT

Superior Vault Co. Bryantown, MD

Superior Vault Co. Charlestown, IN

Swan's Concrete Products Westbrook, ME

Tennessee Vault & Grave, Inc. Dechard, TN

Tucker Vault Co. Farmington, MO

Turner Vault Company Toledo, OH

Vanden Boomen Burial Vaults Inc. Appleton, WI

Vanden Boomen Burial Vaults Inc. Wausau, WI

Vault Service Griffin, GA

Washington Wilbert Vault Works Inc.

Laurel, MD Warga Concrete Products Inc.

Fort Wayne, IN Watts Vault & Monument Co.

Des Moines, IA Wayne Burial Vault Co., Inc. Indianapolis, IN

Welte Vault Co. Danbury, IA

Western Carolina Vault Co. Fletcher NC

West Plains Vault & Mfg. Co. Pomona, MO

Whitman Vault Co. Whitman, MA

Wicomico Vault Co., Inc. Salisbury, MD

Wieser Precast Stewartville, MN

Wieser Doric Vault Co. LaCrescent, MN

Wilbert Burial Vault Co. Atlanta, GA

Wilbert Burial Vault Co. Muskegon, MI

Wilbert Burial Vault (The James Co.)

Waycross, GA Wilbert Services

Lancaster, NY Wilbert Vaults of Houston, Inc.

Houston, TX Willbee Concrete Products

Jackson, MI Williams Wilbert

Des Moines, IA Williams Vault Company

Emporia, VA Willmar Precast Co.

Willmar, MN Zeiser Wilbert Vault Co.

Elmira, NY

National Concrete Burial Vault Association, Inc. Member Application for Plant Inspection

Name of Plant

Plant Mailing Address

Plant Street Address

Plant Telephone

Owner's Name Evening Phone

Plant Manager/Contact Person

Evening Phone

Types of Outer Burial Receptacles Produced Top Seals Air Domes El Sectionals

Other

Please return this application with full payment to:

Fax Number

The National Concrete Burial Vault Association, Inc. 195 Wekiva Springs Rd., Suite #200 Longwood, FL 32779 (800) 538-1423 Fax (407) 774-6751

For a NCBVA member in good standing, the Plant Certification Inspection fee is $1295.

20

NCBVA BULLETIN

February/March 2006

Vault Decoration Specialists 0000 _oleo sodep

otatile ws 00114 dies istes e too

0000 oratti Iles DeG soPP

Celebrating 57 Years of Service Call for Brochure

Phone: 800-875-9591 or 810-982-9591 Fax: 810-982-1182

Trot LAQUE 1635 Poplar St.

P.O. Box 610964 Port Huron, MI 48059

February/March 2006 NCBVA BULLETIN 21

DORIC Ill lull ®

BURIAL VAULTS

Solving Problems for Families and Funeral Directors When Details Mean the Most...

Quality Lined, Concrete Burial Vaults Artfully Crafted Olympian Bronze and

Stainless Steel Premium Vaults Cremation Urns and Urn Vaults

"Daisy"Infant Combinations

Quality, Dependable Graveside Service

Find out more about being a Doric "Problem Solver"

800-457-0671 www.doric-vaults.com

To answer the question "How High can you Go? We must 1st ask .

HOW MO 5 YOUR

AREHOUSE

THE W.C.

WC Cardinal's "Drive In/Drive Thu" Structural Rack allows you to stack vaults as high as your ceiling will allow, increasing storage capacity by 80%.

Quick & Easy Picking Cost-Effective

Schedule your no-obligation assessment today.

Call Today Toll Free: (888) 297-3132 Visit Us on the Web: www.wccardinal.com

CARDINAL C 0 MPAN Y o Inc.

W.C.CARDINAL COMPANY, Inc..1 Industrial Pk. Rd. • P.O. Box 266 • Cadiz, OH 43907 • Ph: (740) 942-4411 • Fax: (740) 942-4412

Uncompromised service. Concrete solutions.- www.wilbertonline.com

22

NCBVA BULLETIN

February/March 2006

SO TOUGlar, your truck will be jealous.

VAO-a

We'd like to apologize if the Wilbert' Stronghold and its standard

features, including a 4'x2' tubular frame, 12 HP engine, 7000 lb GVWR,

5" I-beam, and polyester powder-coated finish are too much for you.

We'd like to—but we won't.

For a free video and

complete information,

call 888.WILBERT today!

H2003 Tilt/Telescoping model shown. Wilbert, the Wilbert script logo, and Stronghold are trademarks or registered trademarks of Wilbert Funeral Services, Inc. 0 Copyright 2006 by Wilbert Funeral Services, Inc. All rights reserved. ADV-05110901 NCBVA0511

10 Funeral Director

71 Cemetery

COMPANY INFORMATION 11 Burial Vault Manufacturer 71 Crematory

CP Eagle niTrigard Ci Doric El Wilbert

National Concrete Burial Vault Association "Serving the death care industry with the very best"

APPLICATION FOR MEMBERSHIP

Key Contact Nickname

Title

Company Name

Street Address

City State

Phone Fax

E-mail

Company Web Site

EP Check here if you prefer to have your mail sent to your home. Home street Address City State Zip Home Phone Home Fax

El Con-O-lite 11 Other CI Provide Graveside services

11 Metal Vaults Ci Plastic Vaults 11 Fiberglass Vaults Offer sizes for Ci Children El Adults [73 Oversize

17 Associate Member: Tell us in 25 words or less about your product/services

ri Please enroll me in NCBVA today! Signature indicates that you have read and agree to abide by NCBVA's Code of Ethics and the rules which govern the National Concrete Burial Vault Association. Signa-ture is required before this application can be processed.

(Signature) (Date)

Zip

Dues Schedule

0 Manufacturer Member Dues are based on total units sold for all locations of the company.

Please check appropriate level: 10 1-999 Units $170

10 1000 - 1999 $260

71 2000 - 3499 $350

171 3500 - 4999 $435

11 5000 and more $525

0 Associate Member .... $150

0 Franchise Group $600

Payment Information Include payment with this completed form. We accept Visa, MasterCard and American Express

Check is enclosed

Please charge my 111Visa MasterCard El Amex

Account # Expiration date

Mailing Information

NCBVA 195 Wekiva Springs Rd., Suite 200

Longwood, FL 32779 (800)538-1423

Fax: (407)774-6751

www.ncbva.org

CODE OF ETHICS We believe that concrete is an ideal material for the construction of burial vaults for the interment of human remains and that a properly constructed concrete burial vault is worthy of acceptance by the public. Our sales and advertising policies will be governed by standards acceptable by the public and the funeral profession and by principles advocated by the National Concrete Burial Vault Association, Inc. We pledge fair trade practices to our competitor whose product we will not disparage. We shall conduct our business on sound business principles, striving to build a relationship of respect and confidence for the burial vault industry with the public, with the funeral director and with the cemeteries management. We will abide by the rules and regula-tions of the National Concrete Burial Vault Association, Inc., thereby contributing to a stronger and greater national industry.

coNc4 . pt

VA }

February/March 2006

NCBVA BULLETIN

23

cONco

QUALM

VA=-))

National Concrete Burial Vault Association, Inc. 195 Wekiva Springs Rd., Suite 200, Longwood, FL 32779

FIRST CLASS Address Correction Service Requested

Industry News and Notes Dear Readers, We at the National Concrete Burial Vault Association Bulletin would love to hear from you. Specifically we are looking for press releases from you so that we can continue to address issues and topics that are directly facing you.

Do you have an idea for an article of interest to other manufacturers?

Why don't you take a few minutes and send us a press release about your happenings? We're interested in details about special events, individu-als who deserve recognition, awards, and new services you are providing. Suppliers: let us know about your new products and services. Color or black and white photos are also welcome.

If you are unsure about how to write your press release or article, don't hesitate to give me a call at (407) 788-1996 or e-mail me at jan@camco.biz. It would be my pleasure to assist you.

Looking forward to hearing from you,

Jan Monahan Editor

That's One Giant Step for Funerals The intro to the movie classic, "Star Trek," promised an adventure without bound-aries: "To boldly go where no man has gone before." But who would have thought the final frontier involved eternity itself?

James Doohan, the late actor who portrayed Scotty the engineer on the science fiction series, will find his final resting place in the heavens Unlike the characters he beamed up on the program, Scotty will be blasted into space, his ashes aboard a rocket scheduled for takeoff sometime this month. The craft will hold the ashes of 185 others, including astronaut Gordon Cooper, according to an Associated Press report. Families paid $995 to $35,000 for the flight.

"It broadens the market, which is important to us, because our whole business plan is about getting more people access to space," Harvin Moore of Space Services Inc., the Houston-based firm sponsoring the flights, told the news service. Even if those people are no longer with us.

Prices Rise after Parks' Burial The price to get a spot in a chapel at Detroit's Woodlawn Cemetery has jumped thousands of dollars since civil rights icon Rosa Parks was entombed there in the fall, a development that her closest living relative fears could cheapen her legacy.

Crypt spaces in what is now called the Rosa L. Parks Freedom Chapel were priced at $17,000 before the cemetery gave spots, for free, to Parks, her husband and her mother. Now the spaces cost $24,275, and possibly as much as $65,000 for the slots nearest to Parks' crypt.

No crypts have been sold yet at the new prices.

Iowa Gets Veterans Cemetery Designers have begun laying out plans for Iowa's first state veterans cemetery, and they promise it will be the nation's best. Along with traditional grave sites, plans call for an avenue of flags, a

0%

maintenance building, a memorial wall, a memory walk and a committal pavilion. Construction won't begin until late this year or the beginning of 2007.