Bulletin 2009 August

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BULLETIN THE

of the National Concrete Burial Vault Association

A Century of Service: Roland-Wilbert Vault Company

August 2009



August 2009

NCBVA BULLETIN

National Concrete Burial Vault Association, Inc. P.O. Box 917525 Longwood, Florida 32791 http://www.ncbva.org (888) 88-NCBVA • Fax: (407) 774-6751

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TABLE OF CONTENTS National Concrete Burial Vault Association/ In Conjunction with World of Concrete - February 1-5

Directors Michael Crummitt Crummitt & Son Vault Co. Martins Ferry, OH Linda Darby-Sempsrott Trigard Vaults / Greenwood Plastics Danville, IL Doug Evans Carolina Doric, Inc. Florence, SC Steve Handley Handley Precast Systems, Inc. Glendale, AZ

Tony Colson Wilbert Funeral Services, Inc. Forest Park, IL

Being “Smart” in a Challenging Economy: Attend TWO Conventions at one time!!

Safety and Compliance (Or, Those Vexing Government Regulations)............. 8 By David Brugger, P.E. NCBVA Plant Certification Representative

Changes in Tax Laws Make it Imperative To Review Estate Plan................ 10 By J. Scott Calkins NCBVA Legal Counsel

A Century of Service.................. 12 Roland-Wilbert Vault Co. By Sylvia Heidemann NCBVA Staff Writer

Executive Director Thomas A. Monahan, CAE Certified Association Management Co. Longwood, FL Legal Counsel J. Scott Calkins, Esq.

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NCBVA Certified Plants.............. 19

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Industry News ’N Notes.............. 21

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Steve Vincent Vincent & Son, Inc. Galena, IL

P ULT LAN VA

Membership Application............. 18

Jerry Russell Southern Ohio Vault Co. Portsmouth, OH Dennis Schultz Doric Vault of Western N.Y., Inc. Buffalo, NY

February 2-4, 2010 • Bellagio Hotel • Las Vegas, Nevada

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Dave Long Eagle Burial Vault Association Joliet, IL

2009Annual Convention

Winning Partnerships...

Deal Me In!

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Immediate Past President Todd Swihart Saginaw Wilbert Vault Corp. Saginaw, MI

2010Annual Convention & Exposition

Winning Partnerships... Deal Me In!

Our Advertisers

Cover Photo by David Brugger

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American Cemetery Supplies, Inc.... 11 BY Axis Corporation............................... 22 CemenTech...................................... 14 Crescent Bronze Powder Co............... 6 D & C Supply Co., Inc......................... 6 Doric, Inc........................................... 17 Edgmont Metallic Pigment Co.......... 17 Holland Supply Inc............................ 16 Long Machine Co.............................. 15 RoMix Chemical & Brush................. 10 Rostine Manufacturing & Supply...... 17 Trigard Vaults...................................... 7

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Secretary/Treasurer Wendy Bott Brown Mark H. Bott Co. Ogden, UT

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President-Elect Hubert McQuestion Lake Shore Burial Vault Co. Brookfield, WI

A Message from the President................................ 4

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President Stephen Hatfield Hicks Industries, Inc. Mulberry, FL

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NCBVA BULLETIN

August 2009

A Message From the President

By Stephen Hatfield

Being “Smart” in a Challenging Economy: Attend the NCBVA Convention & World of Concrete at the Same Time!

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f your day-to-day operations are anything like mine, some days I’m busier than a one-armed paper-hanger, and I can’t see how I can possibly get all my work done, learn about new developments, and make time for myself and my family. That’s why I’m really excited about the opportunity that awaits us in February. We will indeed be able to do it all. Here’s why: NCBVA’s annual convention will be held February 2 - 4, in conjunction with the international World of Concrete (WOC) in the fabulous “City of Lights,” Las Vegas, NV. Location, location, location. Las Vegas has it. With its abundance of five-star restaurants and unlimited, around-the-clock entertainment, it’s a great place for a meeting. No one will be able to complain about lack of anything to do when the business meetings and seminars are over for the day. A bonus: in February, the weather is likely to be very pleasant. But here’s the real clincher and why this is such a deal: When you register for the NCBVA convention, you will be admitted to

the WOC Show absolutely free. As you know, anyone who has anything to do with concrete will be there. If you want to see new trends and technologies in concrete, WOC is where you’re going to see them. Add to this NCBVA’s usual outstanding convention. NCBVA is the forum for the membership to get together to network and share ideas. Our comfortable “partnership plaza” is the stage on which people in our industry can convene in one meeting space. You won’t have to venture far to participate in the annual business program, hear top-notch speakers, meet with suppliers who have a direct relationship to our concrete burial vault industry, and enjoy the majority of food functions. Staff is currently lining up speakers, preparing for our own exhibit, and planning some special events. Watch for details to be announced in the October issue of The Bulletin. Because the WOC will have approximately 1,600 exhibitors and attract an estimated 70,000 attendees from more than 100 countries, I’d suggest you nail down your hotel reservations as soon as possible at the world-class Bellagio Hotel right now. That’s the site of NCBVA’s convention. The Bellagio is only 2.3 miles away from the Las Vegas Convention Center and complimentary shuttle service will be provided by the WOC to the Center. You can make your reservations right now by going to NCBVA’s website: www.ncbva.org. By attending the NCBVA Convention and the World of Concrete, you’ll find all the products, resources and valuable information you need to strengthen your business. The best of “worlds” await you in Las Vegas. Don’t miss the opportunity to experience them all with your NCBVA family.

The Bellagio Hotel––home of the world-famous Cirque Du Soleil “O”


National Concrete Burial Vault Association/ In Conjunction with World of Concrete - February 1-5

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2010Annual Convention & Exposition 2009Annual Convention

Winning Partnerships... Deal Me In! Winning Partnerships...

Deal Me In!

February 2-4, 2010 • Bellagio Hotel • Las Vegas, Nevada


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NCBVA BULLETIN

August 2009

They Will Be Sorely Missed... Charlie H. Foskey Charlie H. Foskey, 74, NCBVA member and owner of Wicomico Vault Company, Salisbury, MD, died June 26, 2009 at his home in Salisbury. In addition to his active participation in NCBVA, Charlie was a member of the Washington United Methodist Church, a Life Member of Salisbury Fire Department, Past Master of Centenial Lodge 221 A.F.& A.M., Past Commander of Thomas J. Shryock Commandry of Knights Templers,Thrice Illustrius Master Giblim Chapter of Royal Arch Masons, 32nd degree Scottish Rite Mason, Boumi Shrine Temple of Baltimore, Life Member of Elks Lodge 817, Moose Lodge 654, American Legion in Princess Anne, VFW Post 194 in Salisbury and the Salisbury Gun Club. He was a U.S. Army veteran of the Korean War, stationed in Germany. He was the owner and founder of Wicomico Vault Company, Inc. in Salisbury and served on the Board of Directors for Doric Products, Inc., Marshall, IL since 1982. He is survived by his wife of 51 years, Barbara Jean Miller Foskey; a son, Charles E. “Chuck” Foskey; a grandson, Eric Kyle Foskey; and sister, Betty Malone; all of Salisbury and several nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, Nathan J. Foskey and Sally Mary Hill Foskey, he was preceded in death by two brothers, Nathan Foskey and Marion M. Foskey.

Charles “Chuck” Payment Charles “Chuck” Payment, President of NCBVA in 1969, died January 29, 2009 in Orlando, FL at the age of 95. Born and raised in Sault Ste. Marie, MI, Payment worked as a newspaper reporter after graduating from high school. His newspaper work was interrupted, however, during World War II when he worked loading ore on the ship that transported it from Lake Superior through Lake Huron and then to Lake Erie. He resumed his duties at the newspaper until 1947 when he moved to Jacksonville, FL. Two years later, he founded Atlas Concrete Products in Orlando. In 1983 he retired and sold the business to his son, Michael Payment, and bought a motor home to travel to Michigan to spend summers with family and friends. He later sold the motor home and bought a house boat on which he spent his summers. “ He loved everything about the Great Lakes and the St Marys River,” said his daughter-in-law, Adair Payment of Orlando. He was a member of St. James Cathedral Church, the Rotary Club, the Elks Lodge, and belonged to the Knights of Columbus. He is predeceased by his wife, Ruth Boldig Payment, and grandson, Michael D. Wilson. He is survived by his daughter, Juliana P. Wilson; son, Michael (Adair) C. Payment; five grandchildren and six great grandchildren.

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August 2009

NCBVA BULLETIN

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Mother Nature... Or your own mother? You don’t have to choose...

PROTECT THEM BOTH WITH A TRIGARD VAULT. REINFORCED CONCRETE

ENVIRONMENTALLY FRIENDLY. For those that are going green but don’t want to choose between protecting their loved one and protecting the environment, a Trigard lined burial vault is the answer. A burial vault serves as protection. Not only does it protect a loved one from any outside elements and pressures of the earth, but it also protects the environment from any chemicals. Give peace of mind with a Trigard environmentally-friendly burial vault that helps ensure both loved ones and the environment will be protected for many years to come.

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BUTYL TAPE SEALS THE LINER


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NCBVA BULLETIN

August 2009

Safety and Compliance (Or, Those Vexing Government Regulations) Plant Management Savvy

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By Dave Brugger, P.E. NCBVA Plant Certification Representative

eing new at the plant certification job, I have had many surprises; most have been great, but some have been discouraging. In the “discouraging” category, I have found that government bodies are quick to pass safety and compliance laws that pose a complex and time-consuming burden on employers (especially manufacturers) and don’t do enough to help with compliance. Regulators won’t admit it, but it seems that they are more interested in collecting revenue from violators than with promoting safety and environmental responsibility. The ratio of government employees in enforcement is much greater than those in employer assistance and education. In this column, we’ll discuss some of the regulation subjects and suggest some ways you can comply more easily. After all, you are struggling to run a business, make some profit, and care for your employees, customers and suppliers. You need to be in compliance, but it shouldn’t take so much of your time and financial resources to do so. When OSHA Comes Calling. . . It pays to be prepared, so just what will an OSHA inspector ask for when he shows up at your plant? First, he will ask to see your OSHA 300 report, a form you are obliged to fill in and post for your employees to see, from February 1st to April 30th every year. On this form, you report workplace-related injuries, including the type of injury, what caused it, how long the injured worker was away from work, and other information regarding the injury. This form gives the OSHA inspector guidance on how to focus his inspection. Then, the inspector might ask to see your other required postings, which include Federal and State minimum wage notices, a

non-discrimination notice, equal opportunity and polygraph protection posters, and a posting that names your workers’ comp carrier and makes the statement that your employees have a right to worker safety. Next, the inspector might ask to see your MSDS (Material Safety Data Sheets). These should be in a binder and organized so that specific sheets are not too hard to locate. Make sure every chemical material you use is represented by an MSDS sheet. It is a good idea to copy the important ones and post them near places where hazardous materials are actually used. Following that, the inspector might ask to see the following documents: A machine-specific Lock Out/Tag Out plan; a Confined Space Policy that is locationspecific; a Hazardous Materials Control Plan (HAZ\MAT Plan); a Blood-Borne Pathogen Plan; a Fire Safety Plan; and an Emergency Evacuation Plan, including an evacuation map of the building. As if this list of things isn’t enough, an inspector could request to see Overhead Crane Inspection Reports, evidence of Lift Truck Safety training, a list of certified crane and lift truck operators, and the schedule and attendance lists of your periodic safety training sessions. You really should have a written policy pertaining to the wearing and use of Personal Protection Devices (PPDs) such as safety glasses, gloves, respiratory protection, hard hats, hearing protection and safety shoes. (I get exhausted just writing this list.) It looks like a full-time job just keeping up with all of this. But, if you have few reported injuries and all those documents are in order, an OSHA inspector might not even enter your factory. After all, he is there to find violations, and, with all these

OSHA is in the process of hiring more than 2,000 additional inspectors. Missing safety clips on crane hooks (above) and inaccessible fire extinguishers are just a couple of the infractions that they might be looking for when they come calling. It’s time to get prepared so that you can avoid fines and penalties.


August 2009 requirements done properly, you won’t look like much of a prospect. He will move on to more lucrative (less compliant) businesses. In the Factory Based on the most frequent violations I see, if the inspector does enter the production area, there are several categories of safety compliance on which he will likely focus: Overhead crane safety—Including lack of spring-loaded safety clips on crane hooks, no annual inspection, no monthly safety check, lack of load limits indicated on the crane beam, and lack of employee training and certification. In a related area, be sure you don’t have have untested, unrated stripping bars, chain sets and slings. Fire safety—Some of the plants I’ve visited have blocked or unmarked exits, exits where the door opens in instead of out, and lack an evacuation map or panic bars. Additionally, many plants often lack an annual fire extinguisher inspection or have extinguishers that are hidden or difficult to locate. Sometimes there are not enough extinguishers or they are wrong type, or the extinguishers may be too small for anticipated fires. Then, there’s the lack of employee fire extinguisher training. In a related category, I often see uncovered or ungrounded containers of flammables, improper ventilation and improper wiring and lighting in spray-painting areas where solvent-based paints are used. Electrical safety—Covers are sometimes missing from breaker panels, empty breaker positions are not covered, or the voltage is not marked on the panel. (The circuit controlled by each breaker should be identified.) Often, I see wiring that is not in conduit, and lack of disconnect switches on heavy equipment such as compressors, mixers, conveyors, overhead cranes, etc. Slip-and-fall safety violations—These include loft areas with improper railings, kick plates, ladders or stairways, slipping and tripping hazards, rebar on the floor, and hardened concrete blobs on the floor. Dust and air contamination—This results from cement, silica sand dust, and forklifts kicking up dust from the floor. Carbon monoxide is often present from improperly maintained lift trucks and loaders. Paint spraying operations are frequently above safe limits. Poor ergonomics—Employees may be doing unnecessary, heavy or repetitive lifting. For example, if you use bagged cement,

NCBVA BULLETIN storage of the bags should be elevated so the bags are at waist level, not on the floor. Two-wheel hand carts should be used for moving five-gallon pails and other heavy objects. It’s not that the workers are unable to lift such things. The real problem is that after lifting repetitively, workers become fatigued and are more likely to lift incorrectly and suffer a back injury, or have some other fatigue-related accident. Unguarded equipment—Unguarded bench grinders, mixers and air compressors are common issues. Non-use of PPDs—Cement is a strong alkali that attacks and damages living tissue, especially eye tissue, nasal passages and sweaty or wet skin. If an employee gets splattered in the eye, injury will result. Wearing protective safety glasses and proper chemical-proof gloves should be mandatory when pouring concrete. Anyone not wearing them should be ordered to wear them. If they refuse, they should be ordered to leave the work area and punch out until they decide to protect themselves. Yes, it’s that serious. Some adhesives, paints, solvents and form oils also cause serious dermatitis and can injure the eyes. They require the same protection. Lift truck and loader safety violations—Drivers must always be able to see where they are going. They must know the capacity and limitations of the vehicle. An absolute rule is that the only person riding on a lift truck or loader is the person who is properly strapped into the driver’s seat. There must be a backup alarm and the breaks must work properly. There are many other safety rules governing lift trucks and loaders that require special training. If you don’t give such training to all your employees, you are putting everyone in your factory at risk. Resources for Help I could go on-and-on for about a thousand pages, but there’s only room in The Bulletin to discuss a few highlights of this very

9 important topic. Contact your workers’ comp carrier to find out if they offer safety training. In some states you can set up a safety committee and a prescribed training program and obtain a discount on your workers’ comp insurance. It’s worth looking into. Some state-operated OSHA-like programs and some universities offer free, no citation, no penalty OSHA inspections. I recommend that you find out where they are and take advantage of them. Some universities that offer majors in safety management will assign students to work with you to write safety programs (under the guidance of an instructor, of course). If you search by subject on the Internet, you will find sample programs you can download and edit in every compliance area. The NPCA sells a set of computer text programs that are written specifically for the precast concrete industry. It might be a good investment. I’ll finish by telling you that OSHA is gearing up for strong safety enforcement. OSHA has hired more than 200 administrative personnel and is in the process of employing more than 2,000 additional inspectors. I suspect these new hires have been charged with funding the extra costs (of hiring them) by assessing fines and penalties. It’s time to get prepared. About Dave Brugger Dave Brugger, NCBVA’s Plant Certification Representative, has more than 40 years’ experience in funeral service and burial vault manufacturing (including other precast concrete products). From 1975 to 2007 he owned and directed Horton-Wilbert Vault’s operations, budgeting, finance, production, product development and personnel management, restoring that company as a market leader. (The company, located in Erie, PA, had a name change in the ’80s to Horton Pre-Cast Concrete Inc.) Dave managed a staff of 41 at two factory production sites. Contact him at dbrugger@roadrunner.com.

Check Out These Web Sites; Some Offer Free Training Programs www.osha.gov/recordkeeping/new-osha300form1-1-04.pdf www.pathfndr.com/mioshaplans.html www.free-training.com/osha/Soshamenu.htm www.ehs.okstate.edu/modules/index.htm www.safetyinfo.com/ www.osha.gov/dcsp/ote/index.html www.free-training.com/osha/othersites.htm www.optical-illusion-pictures.com/paradox.html (OK; the last site has nothing to do with safety, it’s just for fun)


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August 2009

Changes in Tax Laws Make it Imperative To Review Estate Plans J. Scott Calkins, Esq. NCBVA Counsel

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ur recessionary economy and forthcoming changes in the federal tax and probably state tax laws create unexpected estate tax results. I have recommended several times over the past few years to continue reviewing your estate plans and not allow such plans to spend years in a drawer or file. You must continue to be watchful (even if it means contacting your estate plan attorney or an experienced financial planner) to determine whether adjustments need to be made. This includes revisiting your will when changes in tax laws and in economic or family circumstances occur, including retirement. For example, the 2009 federal estate-tax exemption has increased to $3.5 million per decedent (up from $2 million in 2008). You all know what is now going on in Washington with recommended changes in tax laws coming from the administration and Congress. Absent such congressional tinkering, the estate tax is repealed for 2010 deaths, but is reinstated for 2011 deaths, with a $1 million exemption and a top federal estate-tax rate of 55 percent. In 2009 (and 2008), 45 percent is the top rate. You should crunch the numbers and keep these tax changes in mind because the size of your estate may have changed with the drops in the market and real estate. It may also be time to implement certain trusts to turn the reduced value of your assets or lower interest rates into a positive. Confer with your estate plan attorney regarding such trusts as a grantor-retained annuity trust or a qualified personal residence trust to ascertain their potential benefit to you. Many people provide for their favorite charities after they have determined sufficient assets for their loved ones. Today, your family may no longer have the same type of financial security as you did just a few years ago. Some people assume they don’t need to make a will and rely on their state’s intestacy laws. Keep in mind that many states require a personal representative to post a bond unless there is a will that waives it. So an appropriate will saves money for the estate. You should have a minimum of three key documents in your estate plan: a will, advance directives and a power of attorney. Of course there are many other considerations you should implement in your overall plans, including health care issues should you become incapacitated, the selection of a guardian for your children rather than have a court make such selection, etc. Your estate planning attorney will review with you other appropriate documents or additional language in your will and/or trusts that will not only save money for the estate regarding the federal estate tax but will also update the provisions to meet the changing tax laws and family economic circumstances. If you haven’t conferred with your local estate plan attorney within the last year or two, I strongly advise you to do so. It will give you and your family peace of mind and a tremendous relief by personally knowing that you have done your best to protect them and implement appropriate provisions regarding your estate.


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NCBVA BULLETIN

August 2009

1909 -

Century o

Roland-Wilber The work ethic of the Midwest has been instrumental in the success of the Roland-Wilbert Vault Company in Marion, IA. Through four generations and 100 years, the company’s family of managers has concentrated on making grieving families comfortable and incorporating their clients’ ideas for memorializing loved ones. The current president is proud of the company’s heritage and leadership through innovation, and is continuing that tradition. By Sylvia Heidemann NCBVA Staff Writer

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About Roland-Wilbert Vault Co. Jeff Roland’s great-grandfather, F.M. Popenhagen, started Concrete Products Company in 1909 and was joined by his stepson, D.I. Roland in 1928. D.I. Roland’s son, Jack F., entered the business in 1953. The business was incorporated in 1955 and the name was changed to Roland-Wilbert Vault Company. Jack’s son Jeff joined him in business in 1976, and he and wife Nancy are the current owners. Starting with burial vaults in 1909, the company’s product line has been diversified over the years, now offering a variety of caskets and cremation urns as well. For the past 30 years the company has operated a crematory. Roland-Wilbert Vault has been recognized by its licensor, Wilbert Funeral Services Inc., with more than 20 sales awards and for having the highest level of excellence for graveside service of any licensee in North America. In honor of the company’s 100th anniversary, Iowa Governor Chester J. Culver congratulated the Roland family for their years of service, and presented them with a certificate of recognition.

nitially, after high school graduation, Jeff Roland wanted to see the bigger world that beckoned outside his home state of Iowa. He started out at Luther College and eventually was studying abroad. Upon returning home, he completed a degree in journalism and communications at the University of Iowa. At this point, the family vault business began to look more and more appealing. Today, Jeff is president and owns half of Roland-Wilbert


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- 2009

of Service

rt Vault Company Vault Company, which celebrated its 100th year in business in June. Jeff’s wife Nancy, whose father was a funeral director in a five-generation funeral home in Grinnell, IA, is vice president and owner of the other half of the business. “Deep down, even though I was far away from home at times, I don’t think I ever really left the business,” says Jeff. “ When my brother and I were very young, Dad awakened us at 6 a.m. every Saturday to work at the plant. When I was attending the University of Iowa, which is only 30 minutes away, I’d get calls from my Dad to help with graveside services somewhere. Family ties and tradition run deep.” Jeff’s reminiscence of his father getting him up early on Saturdays, however, doesn’t compare to his father’s own experience. There are always a lot of “human interest” stories attached to a family business that has a history of 100 years of service, but this one includes a humorous touch of “Blues Brothers” ingenuity. When Jack Roland and his brother Dave were 14 and 12 years old, respectively, they were not only working in the plant, they were driving and making deliveries. Who knows now if they were tall for their ages? To convey an attitude far beyond their years, they wore

sunglasses and smoked cigars. What a clever disguise to try to elude detection from the highway patrol when they drove the company’s trucks! It worked! Vault Manufacturer For Plain Folks & Famous Ones Roland-Wilbert has helped families memorialize their loved ones in a wide territory that stretches from Grinnell in Central Iowa and across into Western Illinois. Jeff says the company has a reputation within the burial vault industry of having a niche market of manufacturing very large (as in “presidential”) burial vaults. As a result, it has a history of supplying vaults for some famous people. One is artist Grant Wood, who painted the well-known “American Gothic.” The Grant Wood Tourism Center and Gallery is located east of Marion in Anamosa, IA, and Wood is buried in Riverside Cemetery just west of that town. Former U.S. President Herbert Hoover and his First Lady, Lou Henry Hoover, are buried on the grounds of the Herbert Hoover National Historic Site in West Branch, IA. Roland-Wilbert also provided the burial vault for President Ronald Reagan. (Yes, that burial vault was personally and carefully escorted cross-country from Marion, IA to the Presidential Library in Simi Valley, CA.) In the August 2004 issue of The Bulletin, available in NCBVA’s on-line library, is an article by Dennis Welzenbach of Suhor Industries that details the quest for President Reagan’s burial vault, the challenging trip west, and the burial of this famous president. First Crematory In Wilbert Organization Roland-Wilbert is NCBVA-certified (100 percent) and has two plant locations. Its main facility in Marion produces approximately 2,100 units/year, and its satellite plant in Clinton produces approximately 750. It warehouses a 28-day supply of vaults to ensure that a desired model can be provided on request. Total staff numbers 14; three are clerical. Century, Continued on next page

Photos: Current cemetery set-up compared to the old tripod setting of the vault (upper left); Sleek new trucks have come a long way (upper right); Jeff and the staff of Roland-Wilbert (left).


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Instead of trying to downplay the trend toward cremation, Roland-Wilbert faced it squarely, and in 1979 was the first licensee in the Wilbert organization to install a crematory. “We’re approaching a 30 percent cremation rate,” reports Jeff. “As a diversification in that end of the business, we’ve been offering cremation caskets for about 15 years now.” When asked about challenges, Jeff believes his biggest is keeping busy and keeping revenue streams strong. “We’ve been fortunate in keeping our volume at a comfortable level,” he says. “We try to be versatile and keep aware of consumer-driven trends. We listen to our customers and try to provide their requests. That’s where my degree in communications has been helpful.” The company is a long-time member of the NCBVA (since the1930s). “The NCBVA is a great organization,” Jeff states. “We can be proud that it has been especially good to veterans. It’s a proactive association, and its goal is to help us all improve our operations. The education process involved in the plant certification process is excellent.” Jeff is also highly appreciative of the Wilbert organization, and credits it with providing strong support for its licensees. “Our area was devastated last year with flooding. One of our employees lost everything, and Wilbert dealers all over the country came to his aid and really helped out,” he comments. Jeff’s wife Nancy, a former teacher, handles the public relations and human resources side of the business. She and Jeff have a son, Scott, who’s completing a master’s degree in international relations. Daughter Sarah will be a college freshman in the fall. “We love to

Nancy, Jeff and Jack Roland were pleased to be presented with a congratulatory certificate from the Iowa Senate. Making the presentation is Senator Swati A. Dandekar (D-Linn). travel when we’re not busy paying college tuition,” laughs Jeff. The family is active in their church, and Jeff is also a Mason and Shriner. Giving back is important at all levels, according to Jeff. RolandWilbert supports the activities of local associations and charities in many different ways, whether in direct monetary support or in supplying and setting tents at no charge for community events. Roland-Wilbert is a role model for vault manufacturers, providing quality service and a listening ear down through the years. A century of service speaks volumes about the Roland family’s dedication and leadership in the community it serves.

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August 2009

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NCBVA BULLETIN

August 2009

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* Holland Supply manufactures a complete line of oval tops, frames and parts. * Interchangeable with Steril tops, frames and parts.

No-fray binding on our grass.

Proud members of the NCBVA. Call for your discounted pricing. 1-800-527-8818

www.hollandsupplyinc.com


August 2009

NCBVA BULLETIN

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Serving the Burial Vault Industry for 45 years

COPPER, GOLD, AND SILVER METALLIC PIGMENTS Bronzing Liquids

Quality glitters

Spray Cans

15 Shades of Water Base Vault Paint

Edgmont Metallic Pigment Company Inc. 1 800 610 1490

203 Garfield Avenue

Fax: 610 429 4457

West Chester, Pa. 19380

is not only in our vaults, but in the people who build and service them. Doric has been providing funeral homes with quality lined concrete burial vaults for over 50 years. Experience, unparalled service and a dedicated nationwide dealer network make Doric the preferred choice of funeral directors around the country.

www.doric-vaults.com doric 1/4 page bw

1

1-888-55-DORIC 1/30/07, 10:40 AM


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NCBVA BULLETIN

August 2009

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

Dues Schedule

APPLICATION FOR MEMBERSHIP

❐ Manufacturer Member Dues are based on total units sold at this location.

Key Contact____________________________________Nickname_____________

❐ ❐ ❐ ❐ ❐

Please check appropriate level: 1-999 Units..........$225 1000 - 1999..........$350 2000 - 3499..........$430 3500 - 4999..........$580 5000 and more......$700

Title ______________________________________________________________ Company Name _____________________________________________________ Street Address _______________________________________________________ City _____________________ State _______________ Zip __________________ Phone ___________________________ Fax ______________________________ E-mail ____________________________________________________________ Company Web Site ___________________________________________________

❐ Associate Member......$300 ❐ Franchise Group.........$1000

Payment Information

❐ Check here if you prefer to have your mail sent to your home. Home street Address _________________________________________ City _____________________ State ______________ Zip ___________ Home Phone _________________ Home Fax ______________________

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

COMPANY INFORMATION

❐ Check is enclosed

❐ Burial Vault Manufacturer ❐ Crematory

❐ Funeral Director ❐ Cemetery

❐ Doric ❐ Con-O-lite

❐ Wilbert ❐ Other

❐ Eagle ❐ Trigard ❐ Provide Graveside Services

❐ Metal Vaults Offer sizes for

❐ Plastic Vaults ❐ Fiberglass Vaults ❐ Children ❐ Adults ❐ Oversize

Please charge my ❐ Visa ❐ MasterCard

❐ Amex

Account #_____________________ Expiration date _________________

Mailing Information

NCBVA P.O. Box 917525 Longwood, FL 32791 (888) 88-NCBVA Fax: (407) 774-6751 www.ncbva.org

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

❐ 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 that govern the National Concrete Burial Vault Association. Signature is required before this application can be processed. _________________________________________ (Signature)

___________ (Date)

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 cemetery’s management. We will abide by the rules and regulations of the National Concrete Burial Vault Association, Inc., thereby contributing to a stronger and greater national industry.


August 2009

NCBVA BULLETIN

U A D & Sons Vault Co. Suffolk, VA Abel Vault & Monument Co. Canton, IL American Concrete Industries Veazie, ME American Vault Co. Cleveland, OH American Wilbert Vault Corp. Forest Park, IL Arnold-Wilbert Corp. Goldsboro, NC Arrow Vault Co., Inc. Lafayette, IN Atlas Concrete Products, Inc. Orlando, FL Austin Concrete Products Dover, NH Babylon Vault Co. New Windsor, MD Badger Burial Vault Co. Eau Claire, WI Bailey Monument & Vault Co. Waycross, GA Baumgardner Products Co. Akron, OH Baxter Burial Vault Cincinnati, OH Baxter Vault Co. Baxter Springs, KS Beck Vault Co. Rome, NY Bell Vault & Monument Miamisburg, OH 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, Inc. Mansfield, OH C & M Precast Kerrville, TX Calumet Wilbert Vault Co. Inc. Gary, IN Capital Precast, Ltd. St. Johns, NL, Canada Carolina-Doric, Inc. Florence, SC Central Burial Vaults, Inc. Marlow, OK Central Burial Vaults, Inc. Oklahoma City, OK Central Burial Vaults, Inc. Tulsa, OK

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NCBVA Certified Vault Manufacturing Plants NCBVA proudly recognizes the following companies that have a current standing in the Plant Certification Program Central New York Vault Co. Cortland, NY Century Vault Co., Inc. West Barnstable, MA Charleston Wilbert Summerville, SC Cheboygan Cement Products Co. Cheboygan, MI Chesapeake Burial Vault Co. Barkley, 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. Flemington, NJ Crummitt & Son Vault Corp. Martins Ferry, OH D.G. Robertson, Inc. Williston, VT Dardanelle Vault & Monument Dardanelle, AR Deihl Vault & Precast Co. Orangeville, PA Delaware Valley Vault Co. Blackwood, NJ DePue Wilbert Vault Savannah, GA 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 Tennessee Cowan, TN Doric Concrete Vaults Limon, CO Doric Concrete Vaults, Inc. Newton, KS Doric Manufacturing Co. Boaz, AL Doric Mississippi, Inc. Jackson, MS

Doric-South, Inc. Demopolis, AL Doric Vault of Connecticut North Haven, CT 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 Flagg-Palmer Precast, Inc. Oxford, MA Florida Wilbert, Inc. Jacksonville, FL Fond du Lac Wilbert Vault Fond du Lac, WI Forsyth Bros. Concrete Prod. Terre Haute, IN Forsyth Bros. Burial Vaults Fithian, IL Fort Myers Wilbert Vault Service Fort Myers, FL Gettysburg Burial Vault Co. Gettysburg, PA Golden Eagle Vault Co. Rocky Mount, VA Grable Vault Co. Logansport, IN Graffius Burial Vault Co. Sinking Springs, PA Granite State Doric Newport, NH Gross Vault Co. Thomasville, GA Hairfield Vault Co. Hickory, NC Hardy Doric, Inc. Chelmsford, MA Harn Vault Service Massillon, OH Harris Precast Laporte, IN Hicks Industries, Inc. Davie, FL Hicks Industries, Inc. Mulberry, FL Horton Precast Gerard, PA Huntingburg Vault Co. Huntingburg, IN

For information on NCBVA’s exclusive Plant Inspection and Certification Program, please contact NCBVA Headquarters at 1-888-88-NCBVA or use application form on the next page.

U

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 Lindquist Concrete Products Ogden, UT Louisell-Davis Vault Service Chattanooga, TN Lycoming Burial Vault Co. Inc. Montoursville, PA Marion Vault Works Marion, IN Mark H. Bott Co. Ogden, UT 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 Minchew Concrete Products Co. Waycross, GA Minnick Services Corp. Fort Wayne, IN Montgomery Vault Co. Woodsboro, MD Montgomery Vault Co. Rockville, MD Moore Wilbert Vault Co. Evans, GA Neher Burial Vault Co. Springfield, OH Nor-Don Vault Co. Inc. Strafford, MO North Central Mich. Vault Srvc. Cadillac, MI Northwest PA Burial Service Cochranton, PA 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 Amarillo, TX

continued . . .


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NCBVA BULLETIN

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August 2009

NCBVA Certified Vault Manufacturing Plants (Continued)

Pennsylvania Concrete Vault Co. Greensburg, PA Perfection Vault Woodson, IL Phenix Vault Phenix City, AL 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. Clinton, IA Roland-Wilbert Vault Co. Marion, IA Saginaw Wilbert Vault Corp. Saginaw, MI Sam Green Vault Corp. Lynchburg, VA St. Louis Wilbert Vault Co. St. Louis, MO

Saline Vault Co. Sweet Springs, MO Santeiu Vaults Inc. Livonia, MI Sexton Wilbert Corporation Blomington, IN Sheldon Vault Co. Sheldon, IA Shore Vault & Precast Co. Exmore, VA Simerly Concrete Products, Inc. Bristol, TN Simerly Vaults, Inc. Knoxville, TN Southern Ohio Vault Co. Portsmouth, OH Southern Vault Service Blakely, GA Spoerr Precast Concrete Sandusky, OH SI Funeral Services Cedar Hill, TX SI Funeral Services Gerard, PA SI Funeral Services Parsons, KS SI Funeral Services 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 Superior Vault Co., Ltd. Mississauga, Ont., Canada Swan’s Concrete Products Westbrook, ME Turner Vault Company Toledo, OH Vanden Boomen Burial Vaults Inc. Appleton, WI Vanden Boomen Burial Vaults Inc. Wausau, WI Vincent & Son, Inc. Galena, IL 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 West Plains Vault & Mfg. Co. Pomona, MO

U

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. Waycross, GA Wilbert Burial Vault Co. Muskegon, MI Wilbert Burial Vault Co. Traverse City, MI 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_________________

Fax Number_______________________________________

Owner’s Name_____________________________ Evening Phone______________________________ Plant Manager/Contact Person__________________ Evening Phone_______________________________ Types of Outer Burial Receptacles Produced ❐ Top Seals ❐ Air Domes ❐ Sectionals Other________________________________________________ Please return this application with full payment to: The National Concrete Burial Vault Association, Inc. P.O. Box 917525 Longwood, FL 32791 (888) 88-NCBVA Fax (407) 774-6751

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


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NCBVA members with certified plants were recently mailed plastic window “clings” that promote the value of certification. Designed for display on truck and office windows, B BY a specifically the clings feature NC designed certification seal. Companies with certified plants can now proudly display the certified seal on company vehicles and on the windows in their certified plants. Seals are restricted to locations (not companies) that have current certification. The “certified” seal is also available in print form so it can also be used on company website, stationery and business cards If you check out the Membership Directory on the NCBVA website, you’ll notice that the seal is also being used to highlight certified plants in the directory listings. Additional window clings, $2.49 each, can be purchased from NCBVA headquarters. To order, call 1-888-88-NCBVA (1-888-886-2282). They can also be ordered on-line by going to the “Plant Certification” menu on the home page of the NCBVA website.

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Reflections: The American Funeral, a 1,000sq. ft. mobile museum, sponsored by the National Funeral Directors Association, has been crisscrossing the country since last CB summer. The exhibit was B designed help Y Nto educate and inspire the public and funeral service professionals about American funeral customs and the caregiversLT who PLattend AN to U those in mourning. VA It stops at state capitols, universities, veteran events, mortuary schools, funeral homes and industry conventions and will be featured at the NFDA Convention, Oct. 25-28 in Boston, MA. A historical perspective on funeral customs and traditions is spread BY throughout CB 1,000 square feet of thoughtfulNdisplay areas, beginning with Native American

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Headed for Boston

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AU V Mobile Funeral Museum

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INDUSTRY NEWS ’N NOTES LT PLA T

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THIS

August 2009

­ ugust 19-22 A CANA Annual Convention Marriott City Center Hotel Denver, CO Sept. 29-Oct. 2 Catholic Cemetery Conference Chicago Hilton & Towers Chicago, IL October 7-10 Selected Independent Funeral Homes Hard Rock Hotel San Diego, CA October 25-28 NFDA International Convention & Expo Boston Convention & Expo Center Boston, MA November 16-17 CFSA Fall Conference Crowne Plaza Indianapolis IN

burial mounds and ending with the diverse rituals practiced across the country today. Stories are brought to life through dynamic graphics, original artifacts and replicas, and multi-media at nearly a dozen exhibit stations, including: The Abraham Lincoln exhibit, “Arlington National Cemetery,” and “Glory, Glory, Hallelujah,” which showcases President John F. Kennedy’s funeral procession, as well as civil rights pioneer Rosa Parks, the first woman to lie in state at the Capitol Rotunda in our nation’s capital.

2010

February 1-5* World of Concrete Las Vegas, NV *Now you can attend both!! February 2-4* NCBVA Bellagio Hotel Las Vegas, NV March 10-13 ICCFA Grand Hyatt & San Antonio Convention Center San Antonio, TX

We Want to Hear From You!! We at the National Concrete Burial Vault Association Bulletin would love to hear from you. Please take a few minutes and send us a press release about your happenings. We’re interested in details about special events, individuals 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. Send to jan@camco.biz.


22 NCBVA BULLETIN August 2009 1&%9$ %8//(7,1 'HFHPEHU

PROVIDING SERVICE AND RELIABILITY FOR OVER 40 YEARS!

SEE OUR NEW WEB SITE WHERE YOU CAN: • • • • • •

LONGEVITY (since 1958) QUALITY NO REFUBURBISHED PARTS REPLACEMENT PART INVENTORY MORE OPTIONS OFFERED CHOICE OF COLOR

• Watch an online demo of the Logan Handler in action, or an operating video • Review a list of all available options with pictures, descriptions and benefits • See a list of safety and labor savings options • Complete an online Request for Quote and custom-build your own handler • View multiple pictures of handlers of various colors and options

P. O. Box 668, 314 Water Ave., Bellefontaine, Ohio 43311, Toll Free: 800-422-2947 Phone: 937-592-1958, Fax: 937-592-5230, www.loganhandlers.com, sales@loganhandlers.com


No need to get lost on commercial job boards when the NCBVA Career & Job Center is tailored specifically for you.

Employers – now you can • Quickly post job openings • Manage your online recruiting efforts • Advanced resume searching capabilities • Reach targeted & qualified candidates

If you have job openings going unfilled because potential employees can’t find you, visit: http://www.ncbva.org National Concrete Burial Vault Association, Inc. PO Box 917525 Longwood, FL 32791 (407) 788-1996


National Concrete Burial Vault Association, Inc. P.O. Box 917525 • Longwood, FL 32791

FIRST CLASS Address Correction Service Requested

SPONSORS Platinum

WWW.NCBVA.ORG

What’s New About www.ncbva.org? Plenty! If you haven’t visited the NCBVA website lately, you’re in for a pleasant surprise. Several new improvements have recently been incorporated that make the site much easier to use. Check out these two new main-menu items: The Career Center takes advantage of NCBVA’s newest membership service and puts it in an accessible and easy-to-use location. The Career Center is provided as a no-cost alternative to help members find experienced employees.

Gold

The “Plant Inspection” menu item puts all information regarding NCBVA’s certification program within easy reach. Members can now register for the program on line and also obtain more information on the service. You may also order promotional information at this location. There’s More. . . Instant Records Updating Probably one of the biggest improvements to the website is the updated, member-friendly membership directory. If you are an NCBVA member, you can now make updates to your own records. Have you recently added a service? Have you increased or decreased units in production? The changes you make to your own records are effective instantly. Member records can now be sorted by brand and type of product, which will facilitate vault transfers.

Bronz e • FORTA CORPORATION • WILBERT FUNERAL SERVICES

Hungry for Industry News? Finally, if you’ve been wondering where you could go to obtain current news on the entire funeral industry, look no more. A live, “funeral ticker” news wire has been added to the site. You can subscribe to the ticker by going to http://www.funeralticker.com and follow the instructions. Be sure “www” is in the address.


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