Cambria Post Issue 4

Celebrating Tradition

While this “family” may be quite large, Cambria works in all that we do to keep the culture closeknit, and hands-on. That’s never more evident than during the fun traditions celebrated each year at Cambria—from Cinco de Mayo in the spring, to summer employee cookouts, to the annual fall and winter festivities leading up to the various national holidays.

Brightening Spirits

The unofficial holiday season kicks off at Cambria in early October, when Butch Brey, VP of Plant Operations for Cambria’s Le Sueur Slab Manufacturing Facility, directs Scott Zeiher’s grounds crew to get started on the process of hanging outdoor lights.

“We start as soon as grass-cutting season starts to wind down,” says Brey. “We work on the lights a little bit every day, pulling more and more people into the project until we get to the big day when we ‘flip the switch’ and light everything up.”

Cambria’s lighting display tradition goes back to the early days and a deliberate effort to be a better neighbor. “We had some conflicts with residents in the neighborhood—noise, truck traffic, and other stuff”, stated Marty Davis, who was the GM of Davisco’s Food

Ingredients at the time. “Our factories were in the middle of towns, we wanted to be more neighborly, so Butch welded up the Santa and sleigh theme, and we lit up on the dryer tower. Christmas lights on STORY CONTINUED ON PG. 6 >>

BY ANGELA JOHNSON Studies show that strong relationships contribute to a more fulfilling life and are also key to success in business. One particular relationship, a friendship that began years ago, helped shape

the culture of Cambria and cement the legacy of one of its original employees: Jeff Hovanec, former Director of Sales. Hovanec says creating relationships is his greatest attribute. This is clear in the nearly

18 years Hovanec helped President and CEO Marty Davis establish Cambria as America’s premier quartz countertop manufacturer

Jeff Hovanec was hired as Cambria’s fifth employee, and the first in sales.

Cambria showcases its glistening holiday lights outside of the Slab Manufacturing Facility in Le Sueur, MN.

From the Desk of the CEO

IT’S ALWAYS HEARTWARMING to read about all the good things Cambria employees do for each other and their community; both within their work and in their personal efforts. Our two cover stories in this edition of the Post, exemplify it all. The generosity from the people of Cambria towards others is as inspiring, as it is refreshing. The traditions of celebration at Cambria and all the time and dedicated efforts our teams put forth on behalf of just doing good, makes it all so special. Cambria people not only do all the good, they have fun in doing it and that too, inspires others to join in, enjoy, and let the good times roll. All of the many company celebrations of timed national traditions and festivities enhance the Cambria culture in endless ways, providing us all a friendly, enjoyable work environment to collaborate within, as we continue to propel forward in our Cambria journey towards success.

Town Hall 2022

During Cambria’s Town Hall in September, employees from all across the country (and Canada) tuned in to hear from President and CEO Marty Davis, along with other company leaders, as they shared business updates, celebrated successful initiatives like Cambria’s English language classes, and introduced exciting new innovations. There was also a virtual tour of Cambria’s brandnew Houston Sales and Distribution Center and an engaging question-andanswer session.

Our story on our colleague Jeff Hovanec has the same tenets, Cambria people helping people, both in their leadership work within the development of our people and teams, as Jeff did so well—for so long, or as the friendship and loyalty came to the fore in his journey at Cambria. Many Cambria folks gathered around our good friend Jeff as he faced tremendous adversity both in health challenges and in the difficult task of stepping down from his so loved profession and work. Jeff was born to be a salesman, a leader, and a businessman. He loved it all, and he was really good at it. We miss him at Cambria, he contributed so much, and more importantly he misses his work and his team. He’s a true professional, and a real winner. We thank him so much for all he did for this company.

Enjoy reading about Jeff’s journey herein, and give him a call or drop him a note, he loves hearing from his Cambria friends!

Marty Davis

Eden Prairie;

Minneapolis;

McCannon,

Minneapolis; Dan Wagner, Information Technology, Eden Prairie; Julie Ann Tolzman, Quality Assurance, Le

Ben Davis, Information Technology, Belle Plaine; Aurora Cerda, Quality Assurance, Le

Tyler Clements, Marketing, Eden Prairie; Tobey Kraft,

Freelancer, Minneapolis;

Davis, Operations Training Education and Development, Le Sueur; Rogelio Arellano, Soft Line 5, Le Sueur; Connor Mclevish, Creative Freelancer, Minneapolis; Arik Tendler, Sales, Eden Prairie; Lance Kraemer, Marketing, Eden Prairie; Marty Davis, President & CEO; Destiny Theilmann-Westvik, Quality Assurance, Le Sueur; Bridget Prehn, Training Education & Development, Le Sueur; Katie Holten, Training Education & Development, Le Sueur; Karalyn Swanson, Training Education & Development, Eden Prairie; Mary Gillen, Training Education & Devleopment, Eden Prairie; Britney Marr, Training Education & Development, Le Sueur; Carol Olson, Marketing, Eden Prairie; Morgan Hovanec, Marketing, Eden Prairie; Jonas Culkins, Training Education & Development, Eden Prairie; Brian Scoggin, Operations, Le Sueur; Alex McGruder, Information Technology, Eden Prairie; Kamille Kolar, Training Education & Development, Eden Prairie; Yvette Spangenberg, Training Education & Development, Le Sueur; Alex Latcham, Finance & Administration, Eden Prairie; Krystel Reierson, Human Resources, Eden Prairie; Jessica

Pictured: Jennifer Waldron, Marketing, Eden Prairie; Angela Norton, Office of the CEO, Eden Prairie; Liza Hanson, Office of the CEO,

Mollie Peltier, Marketing,

Gena

Marketing,

Sueur;

Sueur;

Creative

Margaret

Gelhar, Training Education & Devleopment, Eden Prairie; Marvin Bartlett, Engineering, Le Sueur; Christina McCormick, Marketing, Eden Prairie; Sara Lissick, Finance & Administration, Eden Prairie; Shelly Nelson, Sales, Eden Prairie; Bridget McGlenn, QA Raw Materials, Le Sueur; Sean Burns, Office & Management, Le Sueur; Jason Eisele, Quality Assurance, Le Sueur; Scott Flynn, Information Technology, Eden Prairie; Cory Ranschau, Information Technology, Eden Prairie; Chris Probst, Marketing, Eden Prairie; Tripp Parker, Sales, Eden Prairie; Grey Greenwald, Digital, Eden Prairie.

Letter from the Editor in Chief

LOUANN BERGLUND EDITOR IN CHIEF

IF YOU WANT to start off any conversation with a laugh, just ask someone to describe their family. Not unlike a bowl of jelly beans, families can be a fun mix. Families are diverse in size, personalities, and traditions.

At Cambria, we are no different—a wonderful blend of backgrounds, talents, experiences, and perspectives. We also get into some history with Blasius Countertops, a Cambria Lexus Partner, that is like an extension of the family. Even some of the Christmas trees that deck the halls at Cambria are grown on the family farm of a longtime team member. And the coloring contest page in our newspaper is drawn by my daughter Gracie.

The Cambria Post is filled with family, histories of connection, and what it feels like to be part of something bigger than yourself. Take it from Marvin Bartlett and Butch Brey (pictured at right), who are integral to the expansion of Cambria’s Slab Manufacturing Facility featured in our last issue. We hope you enjoy our latest issue of The Cambria Post , it was created with each and every one of you in mind.

Warmly,

LouAnn

Q&A with Grey Greenwald, Chief Digital Officer

Learn more about Grey’s favorite activities outside of work, the digital team’s proudest moment from the past year, and the most influential person in his life.

BY GEORGIA INGWELL

Q: What is your favorite activity to do outside of work?

A: It’s spending time with friends and family, especially during the holidays. As my kids get older, I’ve realized that time is moving way too fast and I want to spend as much time with them as possible. As a dad of four daughters, Thanksgiving reminds me of how grateful I am for the times when we can all disconnect and just have fun with each other.

* EDITOR ’ S NOTE: CLICK THE QR CODE TO READ ABOUT THE EXPANSION OF THE SLAB MANUFACTURING FACILITY IN ISSUE 3 OF THE CAMBRIA POST

CoNversations with our colleagues | Joel Johns

It takes in-depth knowledge of “how things work” to get quartz delivered to Cambria’s Slab Manufacturing Facility where it’s transformed into beautiful designs, and then to ship those slabs to our Sales and Distribution Centers (SDCs). EVP of Supply Chain—Operations Logistics Joel Johns manages this process from end to end.

Q: You’ve been with Cambria for over nine years, from running the FabShops to becoming EVP of Supply Chain—Operations Logistics. Describe a day in your life on the job.

A: My key duties include managing the mine, the planning team, crushing, plant production schedules, the polish line, the warehouse, the logistics team, and the samples team. Every piece is part of an overall engine that feeds slabs and samples to the SDCs.

Q: How do you help a department of 350+ people be successful?

A: It’s kind of like being the coach of a sports team. You’ve got to hire good people, provide the right structure, and communicate through data. Together we have a plan, we prepare, and we go out and execute every day.

Q: What’s new with the SDCs serviced by your team?

A: There are now 22 SDC locations and we’ve added cranes to nine locations, making it quicker and more efficient to move slabs as needs evolve. And, for the first time, we purchased land and built our own building in Houston. Unlike leased space, the Houston SDC [spotlighted during Cambria’s September Town Hall] is our first true, 100 percent custom space built to our desired sizing, layout, and look. ✦

Q: What is something you are proud of your team for accomplishing this past year?

A: The work completed in the past year on The CambriaExchange has been fantastic! As a newcomer to Cambria, I can safely say that our solution is a gold standard and something that the team should be proud of. It’s a great resource for us and our partners. Additionally, there has been a lot of internal and external change that shifted priorities, the way we work, and even our organizational design, but the team has remained positive and eager to help Cambria succeed.

Q: Who do you look up to for inspiration or mentorship?

A: I’ve had a ton of great leaders and mentors over the years, and honestly I try to emulate parts of many of them. But I’d say the most influential person in my life has been my father. He was a successful entrepreneur and small business owner that demonstrated many of the values that I really try to emulate: work hard and never shy away from an opportunity; be empathetic and seek to understand motivations; always keep your commitments; and work to build trusting relationships with your peers and team members.

Q. What part of your role is perfectly aligned with your personality?

A: I really enjoy building teams based on trust, accountability, and a mutual hunger for doing great things—all of which are key attributes for high-performing interdependent teams. In digital we can rarely “go it alone” as we’re almost always working with a partner in marketing, sales, technology, or other areas to drive success. ✦

“In the beginning, until the second line, every day was a new adventure. We were encountering unfamiliar challenges and trying to figure out how to always make the product better.”

—BUTCH BREY

Marvin Bartlett, EVP Engineering, Le Sueur, and Butch Brey, VP Plant Operations, Le Sueur, were featured in the third issue of The Cambria Post

JOEL JOHNS EVP, SUPPLY CHAIN— OPERATIONS LOGISTICS

GREY GREENWALD CHIEF DIGITAL OFFICER

Meet Your SDC Teams

1 ORLANDO, FL – Joshua Myers, Issac Ayala, Christina McCloy, Nick Mendez, Steven Badillo Hernandez, Marey Reyes, Jessica Eve, Francheska Ayala, Joshua Hernandez, Israel Muniz Torres, Louis Diaz Muniz, Miguel Muniz, Steven Muniz-Torres

2 KANSAS CITY, KS – Josh Gardner, Joshua High, Luis Velez Baledon, Rhiannon High, Jevon Savage, Larry Hartley, Lara Yelken, Shelby Lewis, Jeff Zima, Julie Wilson, Caleb Underwood, Sharon McDonald-Suber, Emily Trytek

3 DENVER, CO – Amber Juceam, Brittany Levy, Daniel Garcia, Cody Kalata, Geoffrey Peterson, Phil Castaneda, Kyle Tice, Chris Scharrer, Agustin Borjas, Jason Dunnington, Roman Lucero

4 FT. LAUDERDALE, FL – Angel Fagundo, Johnny Perez, Sergio Santander, Raciel Rodriguez, Nestor Noya, Claudio Noya, Ximena Gomez, Francisco Weeks, Matthew Melendez, Jay Zaleta, Jim Parker, Andy Gonzalez, Mike Fleming, Chelsey Shelton, Lorali DePaula, Modesto Pares, Farah Benjamin, Mauro Castillejos Perez, Sara Negrette, Kristin Dick, Justine Foster, Kelly McCumber, Yuliya Yankova

5 SALT LAKE CITY, UT – William Mischel, Emily O’Brien, Jordon Schwinn, Michael Shapiro

6 CHICAGO, IL – Marina Galassi, Fred Harris, Michael

Swanson, Edina Tatlic, Taylor Frey, Yersica Padilla, Elizabeth

Ramirez, Steve Steciak, TJ Howard, Jose Santiago, Joey

Santiago, Dale Ausloos, Tony Angelo, Steve Zychal, Talore Smith, Carlos Campos, Warren Harris

7 SAVANNAH, GA – David Hatfield, Brent Sharp, Candice

Houston, Kyle Eden, Gail Williams, Tony Perez, DiAja

Prince, Diane Jumonville, Marcus Ross, Theo Rivers, Sheri

Kicklighter, Kyle Duke, Joanna Mulhall, Julie Clark

8 MOBILE, AL – Darrin Nixon, Ricky Hopkins, Robert Riley, Conner Crum, Brittany Velaski, Emily Joiner

9 PHILADELPHIA, PA – Erika Poluch, Phillip Parker, Carlton Flynn, Doneal Morris, Naishia Rivera, Marcus Clements, Matt Dorr, Jorge Oliveras, Dan McCaulley, Ashley DiTomaso

10 NEW YORK, NY – Greg Martino, Mike Levak, Susan DeAngelis, Dayhana Amezquita, Jasmine Calio, Rafael

Da Silva, Kelly Koster, Pal Ndoja, Tasbir Hussain, Svetlana Bekker, Karyan Tai, Jamie Keel, Lorna Ross, Patrick Lydon, Rebecca DeFlorio, Matthew Mengel, Ben McNulty, Anthony Vetter, Stephen Napoli, Patrick Hamel, David Serenita, Kyle Palleschi, John Spencer

11 CHARLOTTE, NC – Chris Recchia, Lauren Tambasco, James Kasbek, Ted Adams, Britney Spear, Jennifer Smith, Jennifer McFlynn, Brian Belkin, Steven McDonald, Justin Bowden

12 DALLAS, TX – Brad Seyffer, Samantha Pina, Wendy Salazar, Steven McHenry Jr, William Loera, Devon Surplus, Isaac DeJesus, German Gamboa

13 WASHINGTON, DC – Michael D. Freeman, Robin Tetteh, Jole Shoap, Hugo Lopez, Michael Adams, Rivaldo CerritosMolina, Ian McCartney, Reihaneh Hamedani

14 OMAHA, NE – Dan Woodside, Becky Lubbers, Kari Onken, Diana Chavez, Jeff Zima, Raul Gomez, Austin Moore, Jovany Gomez, Vernon Elmore, Scott Pickens, Adrian Scarborough, Iriberto Pena, Adam Hittne, Tawyna Boothe, Sara Ervin

15 PHOENIX, AZ – Sally Gomez, Lizeth Villafana, Michael Nelson, Tony Merlino, Veljko Rosic, Jesse Molina, Arturo Nino

16 SO CAL, CA – John Cano, Valeria Graneros, Mackenzie Price, Monica Arias, Rafael Perez, Rafael Rodriguez, Gustavo Aguirre, Edward Perez, Manuel Rodriguez, David Espinoza, Raymond Ruiz

17 SAN FRANCISCO, CA – Emanuel Lara, Roberto Galvan Hernandez, Daniel Saucedo, Manuel Barragan, Cynthia Vasquez Gomez, Vanesa Vasquez Gomez, Jesse Ibarra, Anthony Gabba

18 BOSTON, MA – Shane Grincewicz, Nick Bazzano, Lisa Benoit, Ivonne Davila, Ford Coates

19 SEATTLE, WA – Donzell Webber, Damian Golliet, Marcello Dean Savedra, Cathy Johnson, Jayovonni Sears, Corbin Rinker, Dustin Kinzler, Erika Savedra, Lina Lin-Gaines, Christopher Huggins

20 NASHVILLE, TN – Jacklyn Manns, Lauren Deveens, Kim Dyer, Will Sitzer, Lori Harrison, Jeremiah Rivera, Tim Krebsbach, Kim Prince, Isaac Prince, Brandon Gagnon, Sara Van Doren, Hamit Mehmet (Moe), Chuck Adams, David Garcia, Bill Boulineau

21 ATLANTA, GA – John Walker, Madison Lent, Keita Kelly, Tricia Lent, Matt Doyal, Nette Phillips, Sherry Lee, Kevin Jarvis, Scott McColloch, Alex Reid, Chris Pride, Jeremy Leak

22 HOUSTON, TX – Ronee Wyatt, Kristin Ford, Kimberly Hanks, Nancy Moreno, William Mendez, Stephanie Reed, Betsy Cruz, Keren Moreno, Henrik Von Krawiec, Rodney McFadden, Helaine Henderson, Eric Martinez, Kyle Williams, Chelsea Harris, Esteban Quinones Perez, Paul Colley, Gabriel De La O, Melde Williams, Leonard Jones

*Not all team members are pictured

Celebrating Tradition

our factories was born!” Over time the tradition found its way to all the Davisco factories, and ultimately to Cambria. Now, at the Cambria factory location on state highway 169, it’s marveled at by 1,000s and 1,000s of passersby. It’s a big job capped with a magnificent 40-foot rooftop tree made from strands of lights creating an unforgettably festive display; it’s so worth it to all involved. “Each year, I’m just as amazed as the last,” says Brey. “We hang about 500,000 individual lights, more energy efficient LEDs are preferred.”

Fostering a Family Feeling

Angie Wilson, Executive Assistant at the Slab Manufacturing Facility, has led the charge of bringing seasonal cheer inside the facility since 2005. “It’s something I look forward to every year, and from the smiles I see when things start to get festive, I think the employees and the guests that visit the plant love it too.”

Wilson has a personal connection to the holiday season—her family owns a tree farm. So, it’s only natural she would take on the role of ordering and decorating dozens of trees from her own family’s farm for placement throughout Cambria’s corridors. There’s also always a 25-foot tree in the main showroom, and other special trees, mistletoe and wreaths. All that is specially delivered by Dalchow Trees of Mayer, Minnesota, a family-owned company once led by the late Milford Dalchow, who was known around town as “The Christmas Tree Man.”

The business of delivering Dalchow Christmas trees has been passed down to son-in-law Wally, and daughter Peggy who keep Milford’s passion alive. Milford, well into his 90s, accompanied his delivery crew to set up the big trees.

Like Brey, Wilson and her team of holiday elves get an early start, putting the trees in place in mid-November, decorating the showroom, and hanging ornaments from the ceilings of corridors throughout the facility. “We usually have a different theme for every hallway,” says Wilson. “One might be silver and gold, another ‘winter sleigh ride.’ And we hang the decorations from the ceiling with fishing line, so it looks like they’re floating—it’s a magical effect.” But the biggest decorating job has to be the main showroom and that centerpiece tree. “We spend four days getting the strands of lights on the tree,” Wilson says.

“We wrap each branch so that by the time we are finished we have over 6,000 bulbs. When it’s turned on, you’d better believe the whole space is aglow. It’s fantastic!”

Giving Thanks

If you ask most employees, they would agree the pinnacle of Cambria’s holiday festivities is the annual Cambria Christmas party—a tradition dating back to the Food Ingredient division’s early days, throwing a re-birth of an employee Christmas party at the Le Sueur Country Club in 1993. Employee Christmas parties had been a Davis company tradition in the 1970s, but had to be stopped due to too much “raucous” at the party. “Dad and Grandpa had to stop them, they got too rowdy” says Marty Davis, “I enjoyed them in High School and I decided we were going to start them back up, so we did!”

Cambria’s party was organized from the beginning by Marty’s wife, Anne, and Davis’s long-time assistant, Lori Hammes. The celebrations provided great food, fun and tradition. After a few years, Anne began to brainstorm ideas to “spice up” what had become a large-scale event. “That’s when we started doing specific themes,” says Anne who says that approach helped get people more engaged and excited. Her favorite was the 1950s theme. “There was a twist dance-off and a Hula-Hoop competition. Everyone got involved. It was really fun,” says

Anne. “Seeing it all come to life is the best part,” says Hammes, “Just so wonderful to see it done with such a small team.” Wilson also helps with Christmas party planning and volunteers from across Cambria, folks she calls “action people,” come together to pull off the beautiful themes which are never revealed before the invitations go out.

Cambria in the Community

Emanating from the old days of the Green Giant Companies hosting the annual famous “Corn on the Curb Days” for the Le Sueur residents, Cambria wanted to pick up where the “Valley of the Jolly Green Giant” had left off; doing something special for the entire community. Beginning in 2012, we launched a plan to have “Santa at Cambria.” Once the vision was created—an amazing team of Cambria employees grabbed on, strategized, and fully developed a wonderful event they coined, “Christmas at Cambria.” It’s been a big hit, a community event that welcomes over 1200 Le Sueur residents and their families to a Christmas extravaganza. Excited attendees find Santa and Mrs. Claus ready for the annual “Christmas Pic with Santa,” along with the electric train puffing around the brilliant Christmas tree; treats, drinks, and family crafts.

St. Anne’s children’s choir lead the singing of Christmas cheer and the festivity is enjoyed by all.

For Angela Norton, VP Business Administration, this is one of the

biggest team efforts she’s been a part of at Cambria. “The Cambria events team plans it and the plant employees really help run the show,” she says. “They get the building ready, manage traffic and parking. It takes so many volunteers to make it work. I remember the first year, our local sales team, Scott Jenewein and Kathy Ordahl, worked the bar and had a good time.”

Outside, the fun continues with oversized candy canes, branded bonfire pits made by Brey’s team for supervised s’mores stations, plus fresh kettle corn, hot chocolate, and reindeer to pet. Yes, reindeer ! “The kids just love those reindeer,” says Wilson. “But I’ve had a few ask me where we keep the dragons!” Even with no dragons in residence, Norton says, “We always hear how magical the event is. It puts everyone in the Christmas spirit and has become tradition for the Le Sueur community, and for customers and friends of Cambria.”

Finding the Deeper Meaning

As spectacular as the trappings of these traditions—the lights, the music, the food, the entertainment—it’s the focus on togetherness and of collaborative efforts to make it all happen, that set it all in motion and make it so special! To be a part of something appreciated by so many, and know that everyone’s efforts create such joy—should makes us all feel so good about all that we do together. ✦

(Left): The vision for a Prince-themed party comes to life in the Mankato Civic Center in 2021. (Above): It takes up to four days to decorate the centerpiece tree in Cambria’s Le Sueur showroom.

Cambria’s First Salesperson Leaves a Legacy

before retiring in 2018 to focus more specifically on managing his multiple sclerosis* (MS). However, as Hovanec’s daily activities have shifted away from selling quartz, his impact at Cambria remains through the relationships he built and through an enduring philosophy of showing up and doing the work.

Hovanec was fresh out of college and working full time in the 90s when he bought an investment property in St. Paul, MN, near his alma mater, the University of St. Thomas. He lived in the four-bedroom home and rented out some of the rooms. That’s how he met then University of Minnesota student, Marty Davis, who was a friend of a friend and ended up renting a room from Hovanec.

“We got along pretty well. He only lived with us about a year,” says Hovanec, who credits Davis for being responsible enough to move to someplace more conducive to studying, i.e., someplace with fewer late-night parties. The men shared a love of sports—Hovanec, a former college hockey player; Davis, a baseball player. Hovanec adds, “Years later, I moved to Dallas to work for my brother, I’d go into work early, and [Davis] was driving in to his work too. We’d talk by phone early in the morning—we stayed connected that way.”

Early in their careers, the two stayed in touch. Hovanec says, “I always knew Davis was a straight shooter and a good guy. What he was doing [with Cambria] was really cool.” But Hovanec eschewed Davis’ initial employment offers, saying the timing didn’t seem right—until one day when Hovanec was on a family vacation in Florida. He and his wife were running back and forth to the hotel fax machine, bogged down by their work while their four young children pleaded for them to come swimming. Sensing it was time for a change, Hovanec’s wife encouraged him to call Davis about a job.

Davis says, “I liked Jeff and knew him to be a hard worker from college. By this time, he was working in Dallas and I was commuting to our factory in Saint Peter. I’d call

his cell phone at 5am while driving to the creamery, and he’d answer on his way to work. I knew that was a pretty good indicator we’d work well together, and we did!”

In 2000, Hovanec was hired as Cambria’s fifth employee, and the first in sales. Cambria’s National Sales Trainer Scott Jenewein credits Hovanec with helping Davis figure out a route to market for Cambria’s quartz products. “Timing was everything and Hovanec was an engaged and good leader,” says Jenewein. But Hovanec admits it

Gebhart says, “He is soft-spoken but carries an intensity. He didn’t tell you; he showed you how to build relationships.”

Director of Sales Operations

Michael Saferstein started at Cambria in 2004 and says Hovanec is someone he looks up to, someone he never wanted to disappoint. “He truly brought the sales mentality to Cambria and drove sales success in the early days,” says Saferstein.

But, it was also around 2004 that Hovanec began to experience a different set of challenges. He

more importantly, how to get them to do what was needed.”

Shelly Nelson, SVP of Sales Management, recalls an international sales trip to Russia in 2013 and how such a long journey must have been difficult for Hovanec at a time when the disease was sapping strength from his legs. But Hovanec recalls that trip as one of his favorites, saying how beautiful he found the city of St. Petersburg.

It’s clear from their stories that those who worked with Hovanec share a similar impression of his steadfast persona—like the time he traveled with National Sales Trainer Mike Morton to Colombia. “Our return flight was late in the day,” says Hovanec, “and my walking would begin to struggle as the day went on. We boarded the plane and headed toward our seats in the exit row. The flight attendant took notice of my gait and asked if I was okay to sit in the exit row … Morton told her, ‘if this flight goes down, this is the guy you want in the exit row.’”

But by 2018, Hovanec decided it was time to have a heart to heart with Davis. “My disease got to be too much,” he says. “I didn’t feel like I could contribute like I used to and it was time for me to retire.”

“I miss him very much in my daily work, and have since the day he left,” says Davis. “It’s not the same around here without him. I often walked over to his office to visit throughout the day. It’s been difficult for all of us, most especially for Jeff and his family. Jeff’s a treasure in my life, both as a friend and as a colleague. He’s been, and remains, a treasure to Cambria. He’s a grand guy.”

was difficult in the beginning. He says, “No one was familiar with us. We had a vision but didn’t actually have a product yet. I sold people on the idea and on the Davis family, giving my assurance that I knew the Davis family would build this business and make it work.”

SVP of Partner Relationships

Bruce Gebhart was also with Cambria in the early days, coming from working down the hall at Davisco. For Gebhart, making the transition to Cambria, even though it was a startup at the time, was easy because he had such confidence in Davis and Hovanec. Of Hovanec,

mentioned that his hands would sometimes feel numb—a symptom of what would eventually be diagnosed as MS. His conversations with Davis about his health always ended in Davis telling him “he’d rather have half of a Hovanec than none.” Gebhart concurs, noting that Davis understood the value Hovanec brought to the table and that his efforts would never be less than 100 percent. So, Hovanec carried on. Gebhart says, “Hovanec always seemed to know how to position himself and he was so good with customers. He knew exactly how to get people on his team, and

Relationships remain at the root— individuals coming together to create a company based on shared values, and often, a shared love of sports. Hovanec believes sports prepare people for work and life, especially hockey. “Hockey is a grassroots kind of deal,” he says. “There’s loyalty in the sport. When you play hockey, you’re loyal.” This mindset of competitive striving buffeted by unwavering loyalty is part of what sparked an enduring relationship between Hovanec and Davis years ago. It’s also part of what fueled them as they launched a start-up company back in 2000—a company that cares for all of its people, those who were here in the beginning, as well as those here today, all who continue to contribute to Cambria’s opportunity and success. ✦

*MS is an autoimmune disease that attacks the central nervous system slowly over time. Learn more at NationalMSSociety.org

(Clockwise from top) : Jeff and his colleagues celebrating his work at Cambria at his retirement party at the Cambria Gallery on 7th in Minneapolis, MN. Meet the Hovanecs!

( From left to right): Sarah Hovanec (Daughter-in-law), Joe Hovanec (Son), Morgan Hovanec (Daughter), Jeff Hovanec, Lauren Hebert (Daughter), Maddie Hovanec (Daughter), Teri Hovanec (Wife), Will Hebert (Son-in-law). Jeff’s smile is always sure to light up any room he walks into.

The day after Thanksgiving when retailers kick off the Christmas shopping season.

Thanksgiving is a public celebration in acknowledgment of divine favor or kindness.

Since I got married, to get in the mood to put up Christmas decorations, I turn on the Gloria Estefan Christmas Album (Spanish) and put all the decorations up dancing for hours.

After having kids, they got involved and started to dance the decoration night away. For New Year’s, to keep the kids up, I started Karaoke night which is great fun because it is the only time they are ok with me singing the night away. Apparently I am not a great singer.

JESSICA MALDONADO

Human Resources, Eden Prairie

One of my favorite family traditions is fondue! It is an experience for the whole family while enjoying each other’s company.

AMANDA ELLINGSON

Human Resources, Eden Prairie

Countdown to the New Year

With so many reasons to get together and make merry with family and friends, this really is the most wonderful time of the year!

Post your Cambria Team Holiday Card on social media using the hashtag #WeAreCambria.

The Monday following Thanksgiving, promoted by online retailers as a day for exceptional bargains.

I love spending time with my family. We go to church and then we celebrate at my brother’s home with my extended family. We eat tacos, open presents, and dance!

KAREN ESCORIAZA MN FabShop, Belle Plaine

Families of employees and the surrounding community are invited to an indoor-outdoor extravaganza.

I love to cook and eat, so most of my holiday traditions revolve around cooking in my kitchen. I always host Christmas Eve family dinner with our extended family. It’s my most cherished meal of the year.

BROOKE ALLEN Sales, Toronto

Jeff Throldahl, Process Technology, Le Sueur, and his family enjoying Christmas at Cambria in Le Sueur the day after the Cambria Christmas party.

DEC 12

THE DAY OF OUR LADY OF GUADALUPE

Celebrate Mexico’s patron saint with this beloved religious festival.

DEC

DECEMBER 21

DONATE A TOY

MN Drop-Off Deadline Help spread some holiday cheer this season. Find a local toy drive at toysfortots.org

DECEMBER 18 – 26

HANUKKAH

An eight-day Jewish festival of lights to honor the rededication of the Holy Temple.

ABOVE: Mike Levak, Sales, New York, shares a family selfie.

LOOK FOR AN EVERGREEN DAY

If you haven’t already, buy your holiday tree!

RIGHT: April Lemmer, Business Partner Services, Eden Prairie

DEC 19 20 16

DEC

GO

CAROLING DAY

What better reason to get outside and sing your favorite Christmas songs!

WINTER SOLSTICE

Welcome winter and celebrate the shortest day of the year.

My favorite childhood holiday memories are of sitting around the fireplace next to the tree on Christmas morning. We’d drink hot chocolate, open presents and then go off to church!

Every year, the Olson family gets together on Christmas Eve. The menu is hors d’oeuvres only and over the years, we’ve seen just about every type you can imagine—and more! I always look forward to seeing my family and being surprised by the newest recipe.

PAT OLSON

Le Sueur

For me, Hanukkah is about being together with family, eating Hanukkah donuts, singing Hanukkah songs and reading Hanukkah books with my wife Svetlana and kids and teaching them the traditions and the meaning of the holiday.

DECEMBER 24

Chill out with this hot cocoa recipe!

CHRISTMAS EVE

When the stockings are hung by the chimney with care in the hopes that St. Nicholas will soon be there!

DECEMBER 25

CHRISTMAS DAY

A cultural celebration and religious tradition that honors the birth of Jesus.

DEC JAN 26 – 01

KWANZAA

A colorful, weeklong celebration of AfricanAmerican culture.

DEC 27

NATIONAL FRUITCAKE DAY

Make a new one or slice up the one you still have from last year!

Our Christmas family tradition is to hold a birthday party for Jesus. We make homemade pizza, have birthday cake, and sing Happy Birthday.

CASEY DINGELS Planning Department, Le Sueur

DEC 28

CHOCOLATE CANDY DAY

As if we need an excuse to eat one more chocolate Santa!

DEC 31

NEW YEAR’S EVE

Say “so long” to 2022 and welcome 2023 with family and friends.

MIKE LEVAK Sales, New York

Safety,

CAMBRIA SALES AND DISTRIBUTION CENTERS & SHOWROOMS

Cambria went from one Sales and Distribution Center in 2008 to 22 locations nationwide, with all now featuring showrooms so our customers can envision a full range of design possibilities.

SEA TO

CAMBRIA LEXUS PARTNERS

CAMBRIA SHOWROOMS AT STONETRENDS

CHESTERFIELD, MO

CAMBRIA SHOWROOMS AT K&D COUNTERTOPS

TRENTON, IL BALLWIN, MO

O’FALLON, MO SOUTH COUNTY, MO

FAIRVIEW HEIGHTS, IL EDWARDSVILLE, IL

CAMBRIA SHOWROOMS AT BUSCH PRODUCTS

SYRACUSE, NY SCHENECTADY, NY

CAMBRIA SHOWROOMS AT BLASIUS INC.

FARMINGTON HILLS, MI VASSAR, MI

WILLIAMSBURG, MI FINDLAY, OH

GRAND RAPIDS, MI FORT WAYNE, IN

WHEREABOUTS

MN INDIANAPOLIS, IN TORONTO, ON PALM DESERT, CA CLEVELAND, OH

CAMBRIA SALES AND DISTRIBUTION

CENTERS & SHOWROOMS

NORTHEAST

BOSTON, MA NEW YORK, NY PHILADELPHIA, PA WASHINGTON, DC

SOUTH

NASHVILLE, TN CHARLOTTE, NC

ATLANTA, GA SAVANNAH, GA ORLANDO, FL FT. LAUDERDALE, FL MOBILE, AL HOUSTON, TX DALLAS, TX

MIDWEST

CHICAGO, IL OMAHA, NE

KANSAS CITY, KS

WEST

SEATTLE, WA SAN FRANCISCO, CA

SO CAL, CA PHOENIX, AZ SALT LAKE CITY, UT DENVER, CO

GALLERIES & SURFACES

NORTHEAST

GALLERY | TORONTO, ON

SOUTH

BUCKHEAD GALLERY | ATLANTA, GA

MIDWEST

G7 GALLERY | MINNEAPOLIS, MN

IMS GALLERY | MINNEAPOLIS, MN

GALLERY & SURFACES | PLYMOUTH, MN

GALLERY & SURFACES | MANKATO, MN

GALLERY | ROCHESTER, MN

HILTON GALLERY | ROCHESTER, MN

SURFACES | ROCHESTER, MN

WEST

COOK STREET GALLERY | PALM DESERT, CA EL PASEO GALLERY | PALM DESERT, CA

CAMBRIA SHOWROOMS AT NFM (NEBRASKA FURNITURE MART)

OMAHA, NE

DALLAS-FORT WORTH , TX

KANSAS CITY, KS

DES MOINES, IA

Cream of the Crop

BLASIUS COUNTERTOPS DELIVERS EXCEPTIONAL QUALITY AND LUXURY.

BY ANGELA JOHNSON

Blasius Countertops, founded in Vassar, MI, in 1996 by a father, a son, and two sons-in-law, has been a Cambria Lexus Partner since the program’s inception in 2011—making Blasius Michigan’s main purchaser, distributor, and fabricator of Cambria. But, the longtime relationship between these two family-owned companies finds harmony in something more than selling countertops. It’s in a recognition and an appreciation of similar histories and shared values. Blasius is a farming family, whose side business became its core business, and whose mindset, forged in humble beginnings, remains evident in daily life. Visitors are not only invited to tour Blasius’ state-of-theart fabshop, but are often also invited to share a meal, tour the farm, check out a classic car collection, and visit the family’s sugar bush where a wood stove boils sap for maple syrup tapped from over 500 trees.

Kitchen table conversations have been part of this company’s ethos from the very beginning. Shortly after Val Blasius, his son Jon Blasius, and sons-in-law Dave Bogert and Michael Damm started their countertop business, Val’s wife invited the men to have a weekly business meeting in her kitchen where she would serve breakfast or some homemade cake, pie, or crisp. “Lots of people say it must be hard to work with family,” says Jon Blasius. “But I trust them more than anyone else, and we’ve each found and grown into our own areas of expertise, including sales, operations, and production.”

In the company’s early days, Blasius installed both solid surface countertops and ceramic tile. They eliminated tile by 1999. Jon says, “We saw more potential to scale countertops versus tile.” Turns out, they were right, which Val attributes to the “hand of providence.”

CAMBRIA PARTNERSHIPS

By focusing on the fabrication and installation of Cambria surfaces, Blasius can truly deliver something special to customers.

“We also knew we wanted to be our own fabricator,” says Jon, “and we kept running across Cambria’s quartz surfaces and wanted to learn more.”

Enter Michael Saferstein, a Cambria Market Representative at the time, who paid the Blasius team in Michigan a visit in 2004 hoping to jump-start Cambria’s sales in the state. The seeds of a relationship were planted and nurtured by regular contact and hosting the Blasius owners in Le Sueur, MN, where they toured Cambria’s Slab Manufacturing Facility and met with Cambria’s CEO Marty Davis. “We thought, ‘Cambria has a nice business model,’” says Jon. “We liked the family and appreciated the agriculture background and the history of the business. So, we decided to move forward with Cambria.”

Cambria’s ongoing commitment to Blasius has fueled mutual success alongside mutual respect—a partnership with all the ingredients of friendship. Former Cambria General Manager Jim Shannon fondly speaks of the Blasius family as, “Hardworking, salt of the earth, honest as the day is long. Val used to tell stories about how he wanted his family to be able to be in business with him and how much it meant to him. Our business models are so similar that our companies have been able to completely integrate. They represent us not just in personality, attitude, and quality, but are tremendous believers in the Cambria brand.”

By 2010, much of Blasius’ countertop business was Cambria, firmly establishing the company as a Cambria Lexus Partner in 2011—a program with dedicated territories and a commitment to put Cambria first. Jon says committing to Cambria as a Lexus Partner, “was an easy decision.

How Sweet It Is

FOR FARM FAMILIES , community is created in nature through hands-on activities and shared experiences. That’s why friends and neighbors look forward to gathering each spring to help harvest over 1,000 gallons of sap tapped from over 500 trees used in Blasius Farms maple syrup. Jim Shannon recalls the pleasure he felt being on the sugar bush when maple syrup was being made.

“We’d work on the sugar bush, stoke the fire, pour the syrup, and then,

Those other products are a pain. This way, we can focus on one product, not get stuck with any orphan remnants we’ll never use, and not need to know multiple price lists or business systems.” Blasius now has six Cambria-branded locations and continues to look for more while also adding on to its fabshop to gain more staging and loading space along with capacity for adding more fabricating machinery.

The benefits of this relationship flow in both directions. Cambria EVP Tripp Parker says, “Blasius really puts the exclamation point on our brand. When someone wants a beautiful kitchen like something they’ve seen on our website, I have confidence Blasius will install our product beautifully and with professionalism and service every time. For Cambria to truly have a partner that brings that white-glove Cambria experience in that last three feet—that’s how we gain and maintain happy customers.”

Back on the farm, the Blasius family has started to get the next generation into the quartz countertop business. Jon’s two daughters, along with a nephew and niece are now all involved in some aspect of the company. Jon works with an eye toward succession planning, joking about not being quite as dedicated as his father who recently retired “early” at age 81. But, tradition is yet another value of Blasius family life. Once Val retired, Jon, Dave, and Michael thought they’d have to move their weekly business meeting to another location. But, Jon says, “About two weeks later, Mom invited us back to the kitchen table,” where communication, tradition, and home-cooked food reign supreme. ✦

MAPLE PUMPKIN BUTTER

• 15 ounces pumpkin puree

2/3 cup light brown sugar

around dinnertime, everyone would get together, at least 25 people in the Blasius family kitchen. Val says grace and then it’s all homemade food from Mrs. Blasius. Everyone shares. It’s beautiful,” Shannon says.

According to BlasiusInc.com, over 10,000 gallons of sap is gathered in a good year and boiled down to a ratio of 40 gallons per each gallon of maple syrup. The syrup is canned or bottled and much of it is given away to Blasius Countertops customers.

• 1/3 cup maple syrup

1 Tbsp. lemon juice

• 1/4 tsp. ground cinnamon

1/8 tsp. ground ginger

• 1/8 tsp. ground cardamom

1/1 6 tsp. ground cloves

Combine all ingredients in a medium size saucepan. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes, stirring frequently, until thickened. Transfer to a jar and store in the refrigerator. Serve as you would jam or jelly. Enjoy!

(From top): Dave Bogert, Jake Bogert, Val Blasius, Jon Blasius, and Mike Damm bring their farm family work ethic to their quartz fabrication and installation business. Blasius’ co-branded fleet reflects its great relationship with Cambria.

The traditional way to collect maple sap to produce maple syrup is using buckets like these on the Blasius’ sugar bush.

“For Cambria to truly have a partner that brings that white-glove Cambria experience in that last three feet—that’s how we gain and maintain happy customers.”

—TRIPP PARKER , EVP, CAMBRIA

1 The North Face Shacket: Wear it as a shirt, or wear it as a jacket. Either way, it is great for staying warm on colder days ($209)

2 The North Face Women’s ThermoBall Trekker Vest: Stay warm in our thermal Cambria embroidered vest. Streamlined ThermoBall baffles are contoured to fit your body and maintain core warmth during winter excursions. Available in classic gray ($220)

3 Hulken Bag: This reusable bag made on stainless steel wheels will make schlepping easier! It also folds flat for easy storage and includes an acrylic Cambria tag for an extra pop of flare ($88)

4 OGIO® Ladies Luuma Sherpa Full-Zip: A sherpa fleece body joins performance poly for the

Guide

ultimate in coziness and mobility ($99)

5 Carhartt Hat: Keep your ears warm this winter with this versatile rib-knit cuffed beanie from Carhartt. Soft to the touch with a stretchy yarn, the timeless hat stays put to keep you cozy ($30)

6 LL Bean Hunter Tote Camo: This classic durable water-resistant bag from LL Bean is now available in Cambria style featuring our iconic emblem embroidered on the side ($96)

7 Cambria MiiR Camp Cup 16 oz: The MiiR Camp Cup takes on beauty, durability, and functionality in one fell swoop, making it lovable for all the right reasons . Perfectly paired with the Press-fit Slide Lid ($68)

8 Cambria Le Pen: The classic Le Pen you’ve always known and loved, is now available with the iconic Cambria logo. These pens write in smudge-free black ink, so let your most creative ideas flow ($3.95)

9 Cambria Pencil: Sold in a pack of 10, these pencils have a crisp, sharp point for pin-point control and are great stocking stuffers or small gifts ($5)

10 Camp Mug Ceramic: Cozy up to the fire and sip on some hot cocoa with this ceramic camp mug! Designed in black with an eyecatching speckled finish for added style ($ 16)

11 Cambria Leather Portfolio: Made of high-end black leather, debossed with the Cambria logo,

this classic portfolio is the perfect accessory to carry along to your business meeting. Comes in 8.5” x 11” or 5” x 8” ($92-LG and $62-SM)

12 Faribault Woolen Mill Co

Coffee Sleeve: Made from all their blankets and throws, these repurposed remnants create stylish and functional cup/pint holders, which are offered in multiple colors. Perfect for gifting alone or with your favorite brew—hot or cold ($ 16.50)

13 Cambria Nike Visor: The Nike Cambria visor is perfect for the golf course and more! This stylish, three-panel visor features a precurved bill and an interior Dri-FIT performance sweatband with hook and loop closure ($39)

14 Faribault Woolen Mill Trapper Throw: The Faribault Woolen Mill

endures as one of the last vertical woolen mills in America. Cambria is proud to offer this beautiful throw featuring the Cambria dragon included on the iconic Faribault Woolen Mill label ($ 170)

15 Shoelaces: Add your Cambria style to your favorite footwear with these fun Cambria shoelaces ($ 10)!

16 Varsity Crew: The Heritage Classic Crew is made in a timeless tri-blend fleece giving a casual silhouette a tailored look. Available in gray ($72)

17 Collegiate Crew: Inspired by traditional and classic collegiate clothing of America’s best universities, this cozy crewneck sweatshirt is a fantastic way to show off your Cambria spirit ($60)

Decadent Lobster Mac and Cheese

Serves 4

INGREDIENTS

• 3 Tbsp. unsalted butter

• 2 small or 1 medium shallot, minced

• 3 Tbsp. flour

• 2 cups whole milk

• ½ cup heavy cream

• 2 Tbsp. Dijon mustard

• 2 cups white cheddar

• 1 cup Gruyère

CAMBRIA STYLE COOKS

Home Cooking

A LITTLE COMFORT FOOD CAN GO A LONG WAY. TRY MAKING THESE RECIPES FROM CAMBRIA STYLE TO MAKE THE COLD WEATHER A LITTLE MORE ENJOYABLE.

Salted Caramel Brownies

Makes 9 brownies

INGREDIENTS FOR BROWNIES

• Nonstick coconut oil spray (or canola)

• Unsweetened cocoa powder

• 1 stick unsalted butter, cut into ½-inch pieces

• ½ cup dark chocolate, chips or chopped

• 1/3 cup bittersweet chocolate, chips or chopped

• 2/3 cup all-purpose flour

• 1 Tbsp. espresso powder

• ½ tsp. baking powder

• ¼ tsp. kosher salt

• 2 large eggs

• 1 cup raw or turbinado sugar (or regular sugar)

• 1 tsp. vanilla

• ¾ cup (approximately 8) chopped store-bought salted caramel truffles

• 1 tsp. sea salt flakes or coarse salt

INGREDIENTS FOR CARAMEL SAUCE

• ½ cup sugar

• 2 Tbsp. water

• 2 Tbsp. unsalted butter

• 2 Tbsp. heavy cream

• Sea salt, to taste

DIRECTIONS

Make brownies: Spray an 8-inch square baking pan with nonstick spray. Dust with cocoa powder, tap out excess, and set aside. Preheat oven to 350°F.

Melt butter and both chocolates in a saucepan on medium heat, set aside, and let cool.

Combine dry ingredients and set aside. Whisk eggs and sugar until light and fluffy. Add vanilla.

Fold in cooled chocolate mix and then dry ingredients followed by chopped truffles.

Pour batter into prepared pan, smooth top, and sprinkle with sea salt flakes. Bake until toothpick comes out clean, 25–30 minutes. Transfer to a wire rack and cool in pan.

Make caramel sauce: In a small saucepan, bring sugar and water to a rolling boil over medium heat until sugar dissolves.

Swirl pan gently and brush down sides of pan with a wet pastry brush to keep from sticking. Cook over medium-high heat until sugar is deep amber in color, 8 minutes.

Remove pan from heat and add butter, cream, and salt (sauce will bubble up); whisk to combine. Cover and keep at room temperature. Reheat before using. Pour over brownies.

Customize It: Top with a dollop of whipped cream or peanut butter. Or spoon high-quality chocolate sauce over each square for a chocoholic’s delight.

* EDITOR S NOTE: DO YOU THINK YOU MAKE THE BEST BROWNIES? SUBMIT YOUR BROWNIE RECIPE FOR A CHANCE TO BE FEATURED IN THE NEXT ISSUE OF THE CAMBRIA POST !

• 2 cups sharp cheddar

• Salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste

• 1 tsp. freshly ground nutmeg

• 1 lb. pasta, such as cavatappi or ziti—cooked according to package instructions

• 1½ lbs. lobster meat, cooked

• 1 cup bread crumbs, homemade or store-bought, tossed in 2 Tbsp. melted butter

• Fresh chives

• Fresh Italian parsley

• Fresh dill

DIRECTIONS

Preheat oven to 375°F. In a Dutch oven or a large pot, melt butter, add shallots, and cook until translucent, 1–2 minutes.

Add flour and whisk until shallots are coated, 1 minute. Add milk, whisking constantly, and bring to a slight boil; whisk until thickened and smooth. Add heavy cream and Dijon. Turn off heat and add cheeses, salt and pepper, and nutmeg; stir until melted. Add cooked pasta and lobster. Place the mixture in one large or multiple oven-safe gratins. Top with buttered bread crumbs. Bake 30 minutes, turn oven to broil, and cook until mac and cheese is bubbling and topping is nicely browned, 4 minutes.

Top with freshly chopped chives, Italian parsley, and dill.

Customize It: Substitute crumbled bacon for lobster or add chopped herbs for freshness. Alternatively, swap out the cheeses for a different flavor profile, like smoked Gouda for extra depth.

(Left): A warm baked treat for a chilly day. Cambria design shown: Harlech™ (Below): What food says comfort more than Mac and Cheese?

EMPLOYEE ANNOUNCEMENTS

BRING US YOUR NEWS!

Cambria SDC employees were able to attend a Twins game in Minneapolis, MN, on a beautiful summer evening when they were in town for training with Britney Marr!

( From left to right: Britney Marr, Training, Le Sueur; Johnny Perez, SDC Miami, Ft. Lauderdale; Helaine Henderson, SDC Houston, Houston; Carlton Flynn, SDC Philadelphia, Philadelphia)

Cambria Employees from across the country celebrated the grand opening of the Boston Sales and Distribution Center.

( Pictured: Mark Leger; Tripp Parker, Sales, Eden Prairie; Ryan Obermiller, Marketing, Eden Prairie; Sara Lissick, Finance & Administration, Eden Prairie; Joel Johns, Operations, Le Sueur; Shelly Nelson, Sales, Eden Prairie; Joel Peters, Finance & Administration-Operations Management, Belle Plaine; Andrea Fontaine, Sales, Boston; Lisa Korandanis Benoit, SDC Boston, Boston; Ivonne Davila, SDC Boston, Boston; Liesl Dalpe, Sales, Boston; Michelle McGill, Operations/SDC Management, Bethpage; Christine Lewis, Sales, Boston; Heidi Edwards, Sales, Boston; Andrea Sylvia, Product Design, Eden Prairie; Lisa Perfetto, Commercial Sales, Eden Prairie; Philip Parker, SDC Philadelphia, Philadelphia; Andrew Skelly, FabShop Minnesota Operations, Belle Plaine; Erin Lerch, Marketing, Eden Prairie; Brittany Evans, Marketing, Eden Prairie; Carol Olson, Marketing, Eden Prairie; Kristina Pell, Marketing, Eden Prairie; Simone Fertsch, Sales, Boston; Yersica Padilla, SDC Chicago, Elk Grove Village; Nick Bazzano, SDC Boston, Milford; Shane Grincewicz, SDC Boston, Milford)

Kalynn Fuller, Marketing, Eden Prairie, and Christina McCormick, Marketing, Eden Prairie, cruising back and forth Cambria style on the famous trikes to the next tour group during this year’s Business & National Sales Meeting.

WE’D LOVE TO SHARE YOUR NEWS. SCAN THE QR CODE TO SUBMIT.

Our HR team sails on Lake Minnetonka aboard the Linda Lee this summer in Minnesota.

( First row: Kelly Duncan, Human Resources, Belle Plaine; Sara Lissick, Chief Financial Officer, Eden Prairie; Norah Tucker, Human Resources, Belle Plaine; Nik Wachal, Human Resources, Belle Plaine; Stacy Schaefer, Human Resources, Belle Plaine; Alejandra Briones, Human Resources, Belle Plaine; Amanda Doerr, Human Resources, Belle Plaine; Amanda Ellingson, Human Resources, Eden Prairie; Second row: Stephanie Smith, Human Resources, Eden Prairie; Nina Reinke, Human Resources, Belle Plaine; Hallie Meyer, Human Resources, Belle Plaine; Cameron Kopff, Human Resources, Eden Prairie; Anna Greiner, Human Resources, Eden Prairie; Nikki Tupy, Human Resources, Belle Plaine; Jason Campbell, Human Resources, Eden Prairie; Third/Middle row: Jessica Maldonado, Human Resources, Eden Prairie; Kate Williams, Marketing, Eden Prairie; Sheila Schmitz, Human Resources, Belle Plaine; Fourth row: Nicole Berset, Human Resources, Belle Plaine; Jessica Gelhar; Sarah Haman, Human Resources, Belle Plaine; Valerie Swearingen, Human Resources, Eden Prairie; Krystel Reierson, Human Resources, Eden Prairie; Leah Mikonowicz, Human Resources, Eden Prairie; Elisa Goodsell, Human Resources, Eden Prairie)

Welcome to the world Jackson Patrick Jurgella! Congratulations to Jenna Jurgella, Marketing, Eden Prairie, and her husband Michael on their beautiful son.

Meet the Lemmers! April Pfeifer, Business Partner Services, Eden Prairie, married her husband Corbin this past June.

Son and Father: Paul Hewitt, Programming, Belle Plaine, and Chantz Hewitt, Operations, Belle Plaine.

Heath and Graham Dye cheesing with their new baby brother Jay Louis Dye, sons of Adam Dye, FabShop Cleveland Operations, Cleveland

Safety Warrior of the Month: July Claudio Noya, SDC Warehouse, Ft. Lauderdale

Safety Warrior of the Month: August Veljko Rosie, SDC Phoenix, Phoenix

Introducing Mr. and Mrs. Schlichte! Wedding bells are ringing loud and proud for Brooklyn (Braun) Schlichte, Sales, Aberdeen, and her husband Ryan Schlichte at their wedding this past June.

Emorie Penelope Ruiz representing Cambria at just 2 months old! Daughter of Raymond Ruiz, SDC Los Angeles, Los Angeles.

Safety Warrior of the Month: July Dave Odenthal, Soft Line 2, Le Sueur

Kitchen and Bath Designers from across the country visited Minnesota and saw Cambria in all of its glory with the help from our Experiential Marketing Team and Greg Martino, Sales, New York.

During National Safety Month this past June, Cambria employees across the country enjoyed a Safety Lunch to discuss Cambria’s Safety Team campaign, “Safety’s got your back.” This campaign gives employees tips and tricks on how to be safe in their area of work.

Le Sueur, MN From left to right: Brandon Stewart, Risk Management, Belle Plaine; Pat Olson, Office & Management, Belle Plaine; Jordan Jeske, Office & Management, Le Sueur; Bryan Cummings, Risk Management, Le Sueur; Vicky Meyer, Risk Management, Le Sueur; Charlie Brandenburg, Risk Management, Belle Plaine; Lindsay Jacobson, Risk Management, Belle Plaine.

(Right) Belle Plaine, MN From left to right: Misty Johnson, FabShop Minnesota Operations, Belle Plaine; Brandon Stewart, Business Office, Belle Plaine; Pat Olson, Office & Management, Belle Plaine; Vicky Meyer, Training Education & Development, Le Sueur; Eric Moschet, Risk Management.

Truck drivers Ricky Hopkins, SDC Mobile, Saraland, and Robert Riley, SDC Mobile, Saraland, posing for the camera in front of their Cambria trucks.

Cambria’s English Program graduates and staff from Le Sueur, MN, were excited to be special guests at the Town Hall in September.

( Front row from left to right: Britney Marr, Talent Development; Bridget McGlenn, Quality Assurance; Aurora Cerda, Quality Assurance; Omar Chávez-Notorio, Soft Line 2; Julie Ann Tolzman, Quality Control; Katie Holten, Training; Bridget Prehn, Training; Margaret Davis, Talent Development; Mary Gillen, Talent Development. Back row from left to right : Sean Burns, Soft Line 5; Yvette Spangenberg, Training; David Bargas, Maintenance; Rogelio Arellano, Soft Line 5; Jason Eisele, Quality Control; Destiny Theilmann-Westvik, Quality Control.)

Jim Millward, FabShop Toronto Operations, Toronto, had a beautiful wedding in Fernie, British Columbia, on August 27, 2022, with his wife Margaret.

Joshua Brown, FabShop-Lamination, Kent and his wife Megan were excited to welcome their son into the world with their daughter Ava. Baby Owen Micheal Brown was born July 6, 2022.

Christina McCormick, Marketing, Eden Prairie, representing Cambria with her beautiful kids, Taylor and Addison, at Howard’s Point Marina in Shorewood, MN.

Kelli Thielges, Marketing, Eden Prairie, enjoying Issue 3 of The Cambria Post in beautiful South Dakota!

The 2022 Business & National Sales Meeting was held in Eagan, MN, at the Omni Viking Lakes Hotel. A total of 347 Cambria employees attended the meeting over the week. The meeting included 18 plant tours in Le Sueur, MN, leadership presentations, 27 panels and breakout sessions, and a presentation of 116 service awards!

Packers or Vikings? Carly Miller, Sales, Elk Grove Village, and some of our customers from Bay Area Granite and Marble at the game of the year!

The Cambria Post Repost!

We love this photo from @CambriaCares. Cambria was a proud Emerald sponsor of the TreeHouse Women of Hope luncheon. TreeHouse is an organization on a mission to end hopelessness among teens and hosts the Women of Hope luncheon annually.

Thank You, Veterans

Veterans Day is celebrated annually on November 11. We salute our Cambria partners, families, and employees (pictured above) who have served or are currently serving in the military. We celebrate your courage, strength, and commitment to our country.

BY GRACIE HAAF

At Your Service The Cambria Post

Cambria offers a variety of resources to help you stay connected and engaged with the Cambria community.

Inspired by great small-town newspapers we all know and love, we’ve crafted our own signature publication, and stock them inside vintage Cambria branded newsstands, to serve as a touch point between our people, our facilities, and our partners.

Location Screens

We want you to tune into TV at work! Screens across Cambria country are updated daily with company news, employee highlights, community engagement, and more. Tune in to keep up!

Haiilo

Staying connected just got easier! Meet Haiilo, the new social hub for all things Cambria. Haiilo is a workplaceoptimization tool that provides employee and company news, updates, resources, and social media sharing opportunities.

The Source

The Source is a digital library of information relating to the employee experience, organized by department. Get information, get resources, get assistance—all from The Source.

CambriaCares

CambriaCares is Cambria’s commitment to support our philanthropy, empower our people, and help sustain our planet. Don’t forget to follow @CambriaCares on Instagram and Facebook to stay connected.

#WeAreCambria

Town Hall

Cambria employees are invited to virtual Town Hall meetings hosted by our President and CEO Marty Davis. The Town Hall is an opportunity for employees to learn about important business updates, celebrate successes, and ask questions of Marty and other panelists.

(Right):

coloring pages by Lily (age 11), Olivia (age 4), and Emma (age 8), daughters of Justine Ryba, Marketing, Eden Prairie.

IN OUR NEXT ISSUE: In honor of International Women’s Day, a celebratory spotlight on some of the women of Cambria!

Grand OpeningS

Cambria recently celebrated grand openings at all four of its newest Sales and Distribution Centers. This includes Kansas City, MO; Boston, MA; Omaha, NE; and Houston, TX (pictured above). Celebratory open house events welcomed guests to enjoy food trucks and a cocktail hour, and of course to peruse featured Cambria designs and our brand-new Super Jumbo slabs. Members of Cambria’s leadership team traveled from across the country to join in on these celebrations and welcome visitors.