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CFI Friends News
Lately, far too much sadness has fallen upon our friends. It's time for some uplifting and exciting happenings about these same dearly loved friends. We know it is just around the corner.
Please keep these friends close to your heart and in your prayers
JODI BLUEJACKET (TX) just can't be as sick as the doctors tell her she is, not our Jodi, the CFI Ball of Fire! Somebody must have pushed the wrong button and tomorrow, they are going to find that out! Jodi has been really, really sick. The chemo made her so ill that she has decided not to take any additional treatments. You won't believe this, but she has been going to work for a few hours each day! That Indian blood and bravery is STRONG! She loves to hear from you and yes, she asks about everyone else and worries about them. She is just unbelievable and must get well SOON!
Just think, she is the CFI AUCTION, so we are very selfish in saying we NEED her, she doesn't need us! Jodi's email is jodiblujkt@aol.com. She really needs our love and support right now - it means a lot to her to know that you care. CFI needs her passion, enthusiasm and love of life!!!
DUEY JOHNSON'S (ND) lovely bride (Duey's passionate name for Donna) passed away in November after a very long battle with cancer. Duey did everything within his power to make Donna's life better, but it was not to be. The tiny 'lil lady that we all knew battled as long as she could against all odds. Duey and his son, Mike are facing difficult times ahead. They have an abundance of flooring installation facing them and this is good to keep their minds occupied. Duey is still asking for installers to move to North Dakota and reminds us that it is not ALWAYS freezing way up there! cfi2@btinet.net
DANNY SHERMAN (GA) lost Melody, the love of his life in November to cancer. Her "caringbridge" website is indeed a touching remembrance of a young life taken far too early. According to Muamer, who works for Danny, it is very difficult and sometimes, very emotional at the office, but everyone is doing their part to ease Danny's pain. He too, has a very busy installation firm that keeps his mind busy, as well as 2 children at home and a daughter in college.
STEVE HARDY (AZ) is always thinking of someone else that he can help when he has a big hill to climb in his journey to become THE STEVE again. He was injured in his attempt to compete in the Veterans Disabled Olympics. Of course, in true Steve magic, he won his event. However, his wheelchair flipped, he injured his head and must recuperate from damage that occurred. His wife, Mary Lou is a great gal and she reports that it is difficult to make certain that Steve obeys the rules! Really! Steve57@avantek.net
PERRY WRIGHT (TX) is never ill, but he met his match in October when he was already pushing to complete a large commercial job and suddenly became very ill. He just knew that he could finish the work and kept trying. He knew that if he didn't finish, no one would get paid and he was looking out for his employees. But suddenly, the pain became more than he could handle and he ended up in the hospital where he stayed for several days after having two-feet of his colon removed during surgery. He has lost over 25 pounds and calls himself, "the walking skeleton." He told us recently that he is improving. He returned to the head coach position of his daughter's softball team and has done several inspections. However, he cannot lift more than 10 pounds because of the large incision. David Johnson, a fellow CFI installer has been helping him because it appears he is busier than ever, but cannot do the work. He reminds installers how thankful he is that he had AFLAC and everyone should plan for unexpected difficult times. We're wishing him a speedier recovery in time for the busy holiday season.
MATT SPIELER (NY) Matt is still recuperating from the shoulder surgery that really wasn't what someone who "WRITES" for a living at FLOOR COVERING NEWS needs! He is finally out of the sling and typing with two hands again, but it hurts like the devil! He has to sleep in a reclining chair because he still cannot raise it all the way or lift anything over a couple of pounds, and still under a no travel order from the doctor. On the good side, he is progressing a little better than normal, but he is facing a 3-6 month recovery time. With his "git 'er done" attitude, this is not going to be so much fun! He used symbols like @#%* to describe the pain he feels. You'll need to decipher the code!!! He is facing intensive therapy which is really going to increase the pain. Most of you know that Matt was severely injured in an auto accident several years ago and this is a result of that. The horrific pain in his back has never left, but he said that the pain in the shoulder is making him forget about that.
Of course, he and Kat pulled off their annual Halloween Haunted House, which was a tremendous hit. In 3-hours, 195 people went through and others were too afraid. (Now, Matt wouldn't do anything like this, now would he?) They raised $200 for the Canine Companions, which provide specially trained dogs to help disabled people. The Long Island Parrot Society may sponsor this scary event next year which means great publicity.
During the haunted house preparation, Kat injured her "good" knee and when Matt's arm heals, she must have arthroscopic surgery! They are certainly not in shape for anymore excitement!
BOB WILSON (KY) is always trying hard to get back to the 'ol Bob who really drives Pam crazy with all his antics and ideas. He isn't real happy with being sick! In fact, he's really not a very good patient! But, that's our Bob and he's not going to change anytime soon! rewcarpets@hotmail.com
CHUCK KUBICH's daughter, Karen, who is suffering from breast cancer is doing much better. We saw Chuck after one of his "journeys" to the Ozarks from Nebraska. He has this mammoth dog that travels with him. By the way, his claim to fame is that Alan "borrowed" his tools for the Master-II test, so he should be certified also! You figure this out! ckubich@aol.com
CYNTHIA AUFIERO, FRED CHASTAIN, KENNY MILES, DICK SCHMIDT, SCOTT PARKS and JON NAMBA (11/30) just celebrated their 39th birthdays AGAIN! Happy Birthday to all of you who recently had birthdays!
THANKFUL FOR CFI!
"We're hearing from CFI guys that being certified is really paying off in this difficult environment. Dealers are searching for the most qualified installers to satisfy their customers and customers are searching the website to ensure their jobs are performed to expectations. LIFE MAY BE TOUGH, but CFI Installers are tougher! Have you ever considered that everyone wants to live at the top of the mountain, but the happiness and growth occurs while you are climbing it? Have a great holiday and be thankful for those who make your life better.....Jon Namba
A NOTE FROM DAVID GARDEN to the CARPET MANUFACTURER...
"You know as well as I do, that a quality installation showcases your product as well as the installer's personal craftsmanship. If I bought windows from a company that were not installed properly and leaked, personally, I would not use the window manufacturer or installer again. The same goes for my customer's carpet. If I sell them carpet with your label on it and I do not install it correctly, you end up looking as bad as I do.
If your warrantees were more specific regarding installation, you would be helping the installation community's cause. There are people out there who certify installers. If your warranty would include the use of certified installers, at least on your higher-end products, the quality of my community would increase tenfold.
I understand that it is your right to sell whatever and to whomever you want. I also understand that you care about the way your product visually appears inside the home or office. This is the trade that I have chosen, and I truly enjoy installing carpet. I enjoy working with people and I enjoy the feeling I get when I leave the customer with what they had envisioned at the time of the sale. My fear is that without your help, my trade will die. I think that we would all rue the day it happens."
Send CFIguy@earthlink.net, your thoughts concerning manufacturers and installation labor. Let�s hear what you think!
GARY BEDROSIAN #9801, CFD, CFS, CFP of San Diego, CA writes
"I was born and raised in New Jersey. As the third generation in the flooring business, I took the path of an installer, enjoying the hands-on satisfaction of making each job as perfect as possible. From my trucks to my installers in uniform, we portrayed the image of a professionals and I was proud to tell others what I did for a living.
When I moved to the west coast, I found that some of the glamour associated with being a craftsman was diminished. Not feeling the same satisfaction, I felt more like just another installer even though I knew my skill level was better than most. When I discovered CFI, it completely changed my outlook on my chosen trade once again. I was PROUD again to call myself a flooring installer because I was "CFI!"
I enjoy telling customers and colleagues what CFI is all about and it brings a level of comfort and trust with the customer knowing that they are well taken care of with their flooring needs.
One of the things I enjoy the most is when a mill contacts me because they have an issue with an install in my area or they need me to assist with a difficult project. This demonstrates the security they have with CFI installers, knowing they are working with the BEST in the trade.
Having the ability to call any of my CFI brothers and sisters if I have a question or need a solution to a problem is something that you cannot put a price on. This is one reason CFI is so valuable to the mills. I have learned that like everything else, you get what you pay for and customers are willing to pay a cost that I can justify when I deliver what is expected.
This may border on arrogance, but so what? If you are good at what you do and you are PROUD of it, SHOUT IT OUT...CFI FOREVER!
NATE HALL #1291, The Enchanted FLOORist of Wisconsin, writes
"I first heard Jim Walker when I was tested and received my Master certification; (now I'm a Master-II, but back then, you could take all five tests at one event. For the first time in 15 years, I was proud of myself, proud of my trade and proud of my career choice! CFI has given my and many others PRIDE. That PRIDE is contagious! It instills confidence in my clients and the sales associates of the stores with which I do business. That PRIDE has changed my prices to the point where I charge and COLLECT many times over what I charged and sometimes did not collect back then. However, I strongly believe that it is the intangible, unmeasured and subtle difference in me, caused by CFI that has changed me. I value myself and others see or feel this and value me also."
DANNY SHERMAN #H49, President of MEGS Installation of Georgia, writes
"Here's a little history - when I opened my installation workroom twelve years ago, many people told me that I would not survive if I didn't sell materials as well as flooring installation. Well, obviously they were wrong. I started out with new construction for several designers. My wife took care of the scheduling and billing and I took care of getting the jobs and supervising the crews. I thought we were doing everything right and working smart. When I was able to, I would walk into any showroom or supply house I found to establish my company. It was a little harder than I expected, but I wasn't giving up!
When the business started growing, I realized I needed the help of people I could trust. My Father moved to Georgia and has been an integral part of our growth as my partner, Muamer Bejdic (one of my first installers) who was not only excellent at installations, but also had the ability to handle situations and keep customers and my wife, Melody happy. I knew I needed him as a full time employee to help keep things running smoothly. My Father and Muamer are the backbones of my company.
After a few years in business with 8-10 crews, I met a man who would unknowingly change the direction of MEGS Installations. That man was Jerry Miller. After speaking with him for about an hour, he asked if our crews were certified. I wasn�t sure if that was a trick question or if he spoke to my wife to see if I was "certifiable!" After a few laughs, he explained to me what CFI was and how it would benefit my company and customers. I told him I was interested and asked about the next step. The following week, I attended the Atlanta CFI Chapter meeting and all I can say is, I was hooked! I didn't believe the knowledge and information I was receiving from just one meeting (not to mention the good food or giveaways!)
Between Jerry and my Father, they would tell me over and over that knowledge is everything and they were so right. Jerry told me that I should remember one thing, "If it is to be, it is up to me!" Now, I know that is the CFI motto, and I live it! Since the first chapter meeting, I have made it mandatory for all my 26 crews to be certified in their field; carpet, wood, ceramic or vinyl and we also have CFI Technical Inspectors on staff. MEGS installers have certifications from CFI, NFIC, Shaw, Armstrong, KoolGlide, Schluter, NTCA, Mannington and many others. It's not just the paper we receive, it is the knowledge and confidence of being able to install products to the manufacturer's specs and knowing that when we leave the job, we are leaving behind a piece of art and a happy customer.
Today, I am very involved with CFI, NFIC and other organizations of the flooring industry. I am on the Board of Directors of CFI and President of the Atlanta CFI Chapter. I am also a member of the NFIC Board of Directors. These organizations are not only a great source of education and knowledge, but they have become extended families. From meeting new installers at certifications and chapter meetings, to attending conventions and seeing new tools and techniques, it is a never ending advancement in the industry.
MEGS is now installing all flooring products for both residential and commercial. We perform installations across the United States from new construction apartment complexes to high-end hotel chains and residential homes. Being able to offer certified installers and finishing jobs on time with top quality is something that MEGS works hard to accomplish. CFI has opened many doors for my company and my crews and I am very thankful for this support. I hope if you are not yet involved with CFI, you will take the time to learn about the great changes CFI is making in the industry.
In closing, I'd like to thank Jim and Jane Walker for the support and encouragement they have given to all the flooring installers in our industry. Thanks again CFI!
BE THANKFUL because YOU are YOU!! Have a wonderful holiday and don't forget to say to those around you, "I'm thankful for YOU!"
HAPPY THANKSGIVING!
ALAN LAGATORE celebrated his birthday on October 1st right in the middle of a 2,800 s/y carpet replacement job. His daughter, Alania who is now 28 and son, Matt who is 20 helped him celebrate.
CLARK Flooring Solutions Announces Merger and Acquisition by L Fishman D. Clark was excited to announce in September that his company had merged with L. Fishman. The companies share many of the same product lines and operate their businesses in a similar manner. D. will continue in a senior management position and the current employees and support team will remain intact. The two distributor networks believe they can capitalize on a number of enhancements, technologies and be better positioned to deliver continued value, service and solutions for their customers. CONGRATULATIONS to both companies!!
L FISHMAN under the leadership of JERRY WAGNER hosted a fantastic CFI Carpet Training and Certification at their new Baltimore GIGANTIC location! They did all the special things with food, drinks and snacks to make the event a great day for everyone. We might say, a very long day! Roland Thompson called at 8:30pm Kansas City time to say he was finally on his way home. Many more installers appeared on the day of testing than were registered, but Roland, Tom Keene, George Johnson and Jon Namba just made it happen. At the beginning of the week, Jon conducted a hands-on wood certification course for 16 installers who also applied for their National Hardwood Flooring Association Certification online. The Chapter members reported that so many proud installers achieved goals that they had not anticipated doing earlier. What a busy week for everyone in Baltimore, but we know when these guys do something, they really do it up big time. We also heard some exciting news about Junior Harris!!
Many thanks to the L. Fishman group for their continued support and to the members of CFI Delmarva who just keep on going; like the Energizer Bunny!
ROBERT VARDEN is one of those guys who doesn't know when to stop making it happen! He was instrumental in scheduling the CFI Ceramic Course to "christen" the new MAPEI facility in Garland, TX. What a great place! He built mockups, carried supplies, set up and we heard; he even cleaned!! The CFI Team of Jon Namba, Roy Davison and Jim Walker helped a "little," we heard. Seriously, it was a great hands-on training event. Jon's PowerPoint presentation and the knowledge that he and Roy shared with the participants was outstanding. Jim and Jonathan Varden were busy working in the mockups with the installers. CFI is appreciative of MAPEI for the opportunity to work in the beautiful facility, thanks to Jeff Johnson.
TONY BUCKHARDT just keeps on going and going also! CFI Training, Certification and Update Programs were held last weekend at the Carpet Cushions and Supplies facility in Fort Wayne, IN. Daris and Karen Mulkin, Michael Buckhardt, Dave Garden and Tony made sure that everyone enjoyed the experience. It's always great to welcome new CFI members!
KEN and MICHELE AMTHOR are having some bad health issues. Ken had facet joint injection done recently which left his back very sore. He will do this again in December. He can no longer install, but found work that he can do until he locates a non-installer position in flooring, which is his goal. Ken is very knowledgeable and was responsible for managing installation crews for a large company. Contact him at kenandmichele200@yahoo.com if you know of a position, as he is willing to relocate from Virginia. MICHELE had her gall bladder removed last week and that's not a fun thing either. They really do need to celebrate THANKSGIVING quickly!
CYNTHIA AUFIERO (NJ) writes that Andrew's mother, Elizabeth passed away recently. She never got over Andrew's passing. This has been a very sad year and it's not over yet - I have 3 other older family members that have health issues and lately it seems all I've been doing is taking people to doctors and hospitals. I'm so sorry to hear about all of the things that have been going on with my CFI family and their families. I'll keep on praying for all of them, and I hope you'll say a pray for me, too.
BARRY COSTA (NH) says loudly, "I HATE CANCER!" It took the life of his young daughter and he runs/walks marathon to raise money for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. He is scheduled for December 14th in Honolulu to run with the society's team. He personally has raised $130,000.00 to find a cure for cancer. To donate, write a check to Leukemia & Lymphoma Society - In the memo section include: Barry Costa - Honolulu Marathon and send it to Barry Costa at 420 Sand Hill Road, Peterborough, NH 03458. We WILL find a cure!! Keep up to great work and run fast!!!!
ROGER RICHARDSON (PA) scheduled another CFI Training and Certification that was hosted by ProSource at the first of the month. Daris Mulkin and Dave Garden took a long road trip to assist. Roger has certainly done his part for CFI in Pittsburgh. Daris reports that Dave is a "paperwork PRO" and that everyone should watch out because he might take their position!!! You see, Karen was in Florida with her sister, who has been seriously ill and Dave REALLY thinks he is better! OH MY!
CHARLES PARSLEY is catching up with Roger in the number of events he has planned for Pueblo, Colorado. Chuck Kubich flew in from Nebraska, Chad Hansell brought his brothers to be certified from Wisconsin and Minnesota. The BRANDT'S, John and Mike of Brandt Distributing fame are terrific hosts! Their work on behalf of CFI is greatly appreciated! We heard that Bobby Schurman put his skills to the test after completing the Regional Certifiers Test and did a splendid job! Charles is the Director of Events for CFI in the Colorado area now! Many thanks to everyone who came, to those who upgraded their certifications and to a great distributor for promoting CFI in Colorado!
LOUISVILLE CFI TRAINING and CERTIFICATION is scheduled for December 5-6 and they already have over 30 scheduled. Rod Von Busch of CDI and Ben Boatwright of Romanoff Flooring are responsible for many of these. John Shofner tells us to send more! CFI does make a difference and with all the programs that are still being well attended, here's proof!!
SCHEDULE YOUR DATES FOR NEXT YEAR! Don�t forget that CFI now offers a 2-day course in hardwood, ceramic, vinyl, seam welding and flash coving and laminate, as well as carpet courses. Certification is available from the National Wood Flooring Association and from the Ceramic Tile Education Foundation. Add to your skills and bring your friends. Advertise at the distributors and let's get more events scheduled for 2009 than ever before!
And while you are doing this, if you are a current member of the WORLD FLOOR COVERING ASSOCIATION, don't forget if you renew before December 20th, there's an opportunity for an additional $250.00 in scholarship funds for 2009. Just think, that's convention education funds and another opportunity to attend advanced training. Don�t let this pass you by!!!!
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