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For the fourth straight year, the International Tile & Stone Show (ITSS) will be taking place in Las Vegas, NV. The event will be held from November 11 to 13, 2005 at the Mandalay Bay Convention Center, and show hours are from 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Although ITSS has also expanded to New York and Miami (and organizers are also planning an edition in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil) the Las Vegas event has been considered to be the show's strongest edition, and show management is hoping for a solid showing this year.
The largest segment of exhibitors at ITSS have come from the stoneworking machinery sector. Suppliers of equipment of all sizes have been represented at ITSS, along with providers of tools, accessories, digital templating systems and other products for stone fabricators. The event also features suppliers of stone from around the world, including a national pavilion of Brazilian firms, as well as providers of installation and maintenance products.
The organizers of ITSS offer free admission to the exhibition for all industry members, and the event also includes a free seminar program. Education sessions are as follows:
November 11
8:30 a.m. - 9:30 a.m.
Advancements in Digital Templating for the Countertop Industry
This presentation will be given by several different representatives of different templating systems. They will be discussing the various methodologies of templating in the countertop industry. Presentation will include experiences with hard templating, photogrammetry and laser devices. Questions are encouraged for this educational session.
November 11
8:30 a.m. - 9:30 a.m.
Stone Fabrication Forum
Speaker: Fred Hueston, NTC
This seminar is designed for those new to the fabrication business or to those who want to know more about the basics. Some of the topics covered will include:
1. Slab Selection
2. Rodding - is it necessary?
3. Resin-treated slabs
4. Does all stone need to be sealed?
5. Setting up a new shop
A panel of experts is prepared to entertain even the difficult problems from attendees.
November 11
5:30 p.m. - 6:30 p.m.
To Seal or Not to Seal
Speaker: Joe Salvo, Miracle Sealants Co.
Does all stone need to be sealed? How about resined stone? The topic of sealing stone has been an ongoing argument since the first impregnators were introduced. This session will clear up the use of sealers and impregnators on stone countertops as well as flooring and other areas where stone is used.
November 12
8:30 a.m. - 9:30 a.m.
Stone Restoration Forum
Panel Leader: Fred Hueston, NTC
This seminar is designed to answer all your questions on stone restoration. Do you know how to face polish black granite? What about polishing seams? Can granite and marble combinations be honed and polished in place? Bring your most difficult questions and concerns and let our expert panel of stone restoration experts address your most difficult problems.
November 12
8:30 a.m. - 9:30 a.m.
Equipment Financing - Alternatives to Bank Loans
Speaker: Len Baccaro, American Equipment Finance
This presentation will cover what it takes to finance an equipment purchase - everything from bank loans to leasing. If you think you can't afford that new saw or CNC, attend this seminar and you may be surprised.
November 12
8:30 a.m. - 9:30 a.m.
CNC - When and Why
Are you thinking about purchasing a CNC machine? Can you afford one, and more importantly, will it increase your productivity? These questions and more will be addressed in this seminar on the purchase of CNC machinery as well as equipment such as line polishers, waterjets, etc. Explanation of CNC technology, performance, requirements (operator, software, etc.), technical performance and innovation. Learn what questions to ask and if you should move up to a CNC.
November 12
5:30 p.m. - 6:30 p.m.
Designing with Natural Stone
Speaker: Fred Hueston, NTC
Are you an architect or designer that uses natural stone in your design? Are you aware of the properties of these materials and the proper installation methods for natural stone? If not, or if you want to learn more, then this seminar is for you. Learn the benefits of using natural stone over other materials. Learn how to specify stone for wet areas such as kitchen and baths.
November 13
8:30 a.m. - 9:30 a.m.
Engineered Stone and Quartz Surface Fabrication and Restoration
Speaker: Fred Hueston, NTC
Are you working with engineered stone? How does engineered stone differ from natural stone? Can it be polished the same way? This session is designed to introduce you to engineered stone and quartz surfaces. Learn some of the tricks that will help you fabricate and repair this material.
November 13
8:30 a.m. - 9:30 a.m.
Are you making a profit? Understanding your Financials
Speaker: James O'Brasky, Sterling Financial
Are your expenses increasing faster than your profits? What does it mean that your “leverage†is too high? Leave this seminar with improved confidence in interpreting and evaluating your financials. Your CPA can set-up your financial accounts, but you need to grasp the “assets†and “liabilities†of operating your business finances. Be assured that your company is performing at the optimum level.
November 13
8:30 a.m. - 9:30 a.m.
Working with Resin Slabs
Speaker: Fred Hueston, NTC
It is predicted that in the near future almost all granite slabs will be resined. Is this an advantage or disadvantage? This seminar will present the pros and cons of working with resin slabs. More importantly, it will give you detailed procedures and techniques for repairing some of the problems associated with resin slabs.
Stone Industry Education is sponsored by Stone World Magazine and Marble Institute of America. The SIE events will help you: strengthen your skills, build your business, and increase profit in your shop. Check out 
