Day two of the Coverings trade show in Orlando, FL, is seeing increased traffic on the show floor -- and exhibitors are citing the high quality of attendees on hand. 

Coverings 2010 began today at the Orange Country Convention Center in Orlando, FL, and it will continue through Friday, April 30.

Unfortunately, the Marble Institute of America (MIA) has serious and disturbing news to report involving the deaths of four stone industry employees killed over the past several weeks in slab handling accidents. In Florida and Oklahoma, and in Maryland just last week, the deaths occurred while unloading trucks. In California, the owner of a fabrication business was killed while unloading a container.

CLEVELAND, OH -- The MIA announced that it is launching the Natural Stone Sustainability Fund in order to raise funds to support the Natural Stone Council's sustainability initiative. The fund will also help the MIA defray the costs of several of its own sustainability initiatives, including a green advertising campaign on behalf of the natural stone industry, the creation of natural stone sustainability CEU programs, the development of educational resources and much more.

GranQuartz has announced a new store location in the Minneapolis, MN, area, located in the suburb of Plymouth, MN. This new location will serve the Upper Midwest area and provide 1-day shipping service to Minnesota, Dakotas, Northern Wisconsin and Iowa. The store is now open for walk-in service and will have Grand Opening events and promotions the third week in May.

CHICAGO, IL -- Stone City will present its exclusive line of Vermont Danby Marble. This event will focus on the beauty, elegance and environmental benefits of this exquisite line of marbles. The event will take place on Thursday, April 22 starting at 6:00 pm at Stone City's 25,000-square-foot showroom located at 3053 West Grand Avenue, Chicago, IL.

Tennessee Marble Co. and Polycor have announced the formation of a joint venture for the fabrication, distribution and promotion of Alabama marble. Tennessee Marble Co. and Polycor bring their knowledge and expertise on this product in the manufacture of slabs, tiles and cut-to-size products. Polycor's extensive knowledge of the North American market will enhance the distribution and availability of Alabama marble to all potential customers in North America. All sales and distribution of slab and cut-to-size work will be coordinated exclusively through the joint venture as of May 1. Alabama Marble Co. will continue its operations at the quarry, coordinating all North American slab and cut-to-size supply through the joint venture.

CLEVELAND, OH -- The Marble Institute of America (MIA) is now accepting entries for its enhanced 2010 Pinnacle Awards competition. The MIA is proud to announce a new element in the judging criteria for the 2010 Pinnacle Awards competition. This year, judges will be evaluating sustainable design elements in addition to the traditional criteria of beauty, creativity, ingenuity, craftsmanship and suitability of materials. If a submitted project displays superior effort, innovation and execution towards sustainable building goals, the MIA would consider awarding its first MIA Pinnacle Award for Sustainable Design.

FAIRFIELD, CA -- Duracite Custom Countertops has been recognized by the Cal/OSHA Consultation Service for its innovative fabrication system, while implementing and maintaining an effective Injury and Illness Prevention Program (IIPP). Golden Gate recognition was developed to provide motivation and support to employers who proactively work with their employees and the Cal/OSHA Consultation Service.

The University of Ceramic Tile and Stone (UofCTS) is launching its newest online course, "Understanding the Basics of Natural Stone." It offers a comprehensive look at the stone industry -- from ancient uses and geology to quarrying, fabrication, installation and advice on how to win over customers.