It’s a Small World…



I happened to be doing some research for my upcoming trip to Washington, D.C. in May the other day to put together a list of sites we would like to visit. While I have been there numerous times (I love it there!), others that are traveling with me have not. As I was searching online, I came across some information on one of the few monuments I have not visited, including the Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial in West Potomac Park.

While brainstorming on what to write my blog about, I decided that I wanted to do some research on the granite quarries operated by Cold Spring Granite Company. I came across an article, Continuing to build a successful quarrying operation, in Stone World magazine online. Low and behold, I began to read about all of the prestigious projects nationwide that use Cold Spring quarried granite, such as Carnelian, which is quarried in Milbank, SD. It turns out that 6,000 tons of Carnelian granite quarried from that very location were used in the FDR memorial.

Many of our national monuments and historical architectural buildings are constructed of granite for its durability and natural beauty. I have to admit, I may look at the beautiful city of Washington D.C. though different eyes this time around. I hope that I am able to share some of the sites with you on one of my upcoming blogs.

Feel free to share…

Angie

Posted in Granite, Company, Business on April 16th, 2008 by Angie | | 8 Comments



PGC Celebrates 1 Year Anniversary Of Blog Site!



It is hard to believe, but this month marks the one year anniversary of our blog site. Wow, time sure does fly by! While blog sites have gained popularity over the last several years, many people are still unfamiliar with them, or just learning more about their value and purpose.

So what is a blog you might ask? According to Wikipedia, “a blog (a web log) is a website where entries are commonly displayed in reverse chronological order.  Many blogs provide commentary or news on a particular subject; others function as more personal online diaries. A typical blog combines text, images, and links to other blogs, web pages, and an area for readers to leave comments in an interactive format.”

I have enjoyed blogging over the last year, and have to admit that is has been a great way to provide valueable information to our customers. If you’re looking for a particular topic of interest, our blog site contains various Categories such as: Business, Company, Cooking in your Kitchen, Granite, Industry News, Learning Links, etc., that make it easy to navigate and find what you’re looking for. If you haven’t had the opportunity to check out our blog site yet, please do. The site contains industry information, tips, opinions, links, and…a few good recipes you might want to try.

Following are some blogs I’ve highlighted from the year:

Thanks for reading!

Barb

Posted in Granite, Company, Industry News, Business on April 3rd, 2008 by Barb | | 11 Comments



Beat Stress Naturally



We all have stress in our lives, although some people tend to have more than others. While some stress is good, too much stress can be bad and harmful to your health, unless you find some way to release it and get through it. I recently read, “10 Best Stress Busters,” an article found in the April 2008 issue of Body + Soul magazine that contained some valueable information that I wanted to share. According to the article, “Stress may start in your head, but it’s often your body that bears the brunt of chronic stress. A likely risk factor for heart disease, cancer, etc.” In todays society, reducing stress in our lives is an absolute must for good health.

Following are some ideas to help deal with stress naturally from the article:

  1. Grab the iPod and go—Studies show that physical activity helps people feel less anxious and depressed. Make it a habit to exercise for at least 30 minutes a day, 5 days a week. Walking is a great habit to start.
  2. Eat fewer cookies, sip more tea—Try to cut back on refined carbs and sugar. They can raise your cortisol levels. Try and cut back on caffeine found in coffee and soda pop. Instead try and substitute green tea, which is healthier.
  3. Get out of your head—Try some mind body work like yoga, meditation, or tai chi. It can help to clear your head of the days activities, work, and worries.
  4. Fine tune your juggling act—Try to avoid multi-tasking while doing normally pleasureable things. Avoid working through your lunch, or writing a grocery list while taking a bath, etc. Try and pick 1 day only to stay late at work to get through your to do list. You can also work really intensely for a few weeks and then allow yourself to take a break.
  5. Just say no—Find time for a little rest and relaxation and time for yourself. Never say yes immediately when someone asks you to do something. Allow time to think about it and contemplate if it will take away from your needed personal time.
  6. Know thyself—Socializing can leave some people feeling drained, while for others hanging out with friends can be a good way to de-stress. If you need time to be alone, then take it.
  7. Score some herbs—Try taking some herbal supplements that strengthen the immune system such as Siberian ginseng, rhodiola, ashwangandha, or schizandra. They can help keep your immune system function well, while under stress.
  8. Play hide the laptop—Try to avoid constantly checking your e-mail, especially when you’ve been in front of it all day long. Eliminate checking it before bed, or first thing when you wake up.
  9. Seek out sound therapy—Studies show that listening to music, especially classical may help you unwind. Add soothing melodies to your music library to listen to when you are feeling stressed.
  10. Paint a picture, or go bowling—Try and do something you really like when you are feeling stressed. Doing something creative, or physical is a great way to take your mind off your daily problems, or activities.

Thanks for reading!

Barb

Posted in Uncategorized, Business on March 28th, 2008 by Barb | | 0 Comments



Spring Break—A Great Way To Regenerize!



Last week, we were blessed to be able to enjoy a little rest, relaxation, family time, and some much needed warm weather! I don’t know about you, but after a long winter, I think a spring break is always a great way to regenerize yourself and improve your outlook on life.

Before I left, I was feeling a little overwhelmed with life contemplating the preparations for another upcoming graduation party, moving sometime this summer, etc. It is funny how taking a short break from work, some Mexican sun, margaritas, and having the opportunity to read a good book can change your outlook.

Now that we are back, I feel I can move ahead full force, and am full of energy to do so. I recommend a vacation get away to everyone, even if it is a place close by and only for a few days. I guarantee you will feel re-energized.

Thanks for reading!

Barb

Following are some photos from Playa Del Carmen Mexico:

Posted in Company, Business on March 24th, 2008 by Barb | | 2 Comments



The Master Bath: An Oasis…



I don’t know about you, but having a quiet, relaxing space to finish the day off is a dream come true. Think of it, a hot bath, candles and soft music or a good book…how relaxing! Unlike the other baths in your home, the master bath is often times a component of a master suite, which can also have a walk-in closet and/or a sitting room.

With all of the different design elements that go into a master bath space the possibilities are endless. From the lighting and fixtures to paint color and granite/marble countertops you can create a space that is just right for you. Please check out some of the bath projects we have installed over the years.

With an abundance of different colors of granite and marble remnants in our stock you are bound to find something that works for the look you are trying to achieve. Stop into our showroom and we can show you the wide variety of choices you have to select from.

Feel free to share…

Angie

Posted in Granite, Company, Industry News, Business on March 18th, 2008 by Angie | | 4 Comments



Sink Choices Abound…



One question that comes up time and time again with our customers is, “What kind of sink should I use?” To that, the answer is, “Wow, you have A LOT of options!”

There are stainless steel sinks, cast iron sinks, procelain sinks, copper sinks, granite composite sinks, granite sinks, etc. There is also the questions of, “What style of sink are you looking for?” There are drop-in sinks, undermount sinks, vessel-style sinks, apron front sinks, round sinks, square sinks, single-bowl sinks, double-bowl sinks, even triple-bowl sinks…honestly the options are endless.

When considering all of your sink options, you should also consider the intended use, durability, configuration, and visual appeal.

The following are some links that may help you in your selection process:

http://www.fixtureuniverse.com/articles/article.aspx?article_id=191

http://www.kitchendesignersideas.com/kitchen_sinks.html

http://www.elkay.com/

http://www.kohler.com/

We also offer some sink options, including our stock Magnum 501, Magnum 502, and Magnum 2210.

If you have any additonal questions regarding your sink selection, please feel free to contact our customer service department! Happy sink shopping!

Feel free to share…

Angie

Posted in Granite, Company, Business on February 28th, 2008 by Angie | | 4 Comments



Granite Countertops—Here To Stay!



The other day, I came across a blog titled, “Down with granite counters,” that talked about the supposed downfall of granite countertops due to the green movement, which I totally disagree with.  The author basically was predicting that the granite countertop trend would soon be over based on an article he read by some New York  realtor.

Granite has been used for centuries for building and has proven that it can withstand time and most weather conditions. Stone has also been an intricate part of many structures throughout Europe and the rest of the world, and has only over the last few decades gained popularity in the United States. While the green movement has gained momentum and popularity recently, I don’t believe it will make the interest in stone and granite countertops go away. In fact, the stone industry, including the Marble Institute of America, and The Stone Council, are working hard to gain Leed points to make the use of granite countertops more sustainable for future green applications and continued granite countertop growth.

Following are some links that provide more information on the subject:

http://www.marble-institute.com/industryresources/historystoneingreenbuilding.pdf

http://www.genuinestone.com/env_greeninitiatives.php

http://www.genuinestone.com/env_whybuildgreen.php

http://www.buildingstonemagazine.com/spring-07/green.html

Thanks for reading!

Barb

Posted in Granite, Industry News, Business on February 27th, 2008 by Barb | | 11 Comments



Make A Lasting Impression With Your Showroom!



A showroom, no matter how big, or small, is a great way to make a lasting impression on a customer. Showrooms however, can sometimes get neglected and may lack the regular maintenance needed. Employees often get caught up in their daily paperwork, computer work, helping customers, etc., and may lose sight of what is right in front of them—a messy showroom. What they don’t always realize, is that a customer notices a dirty floor, a cluttered countertop, or a dusty display.

I recently read, “Suggestions For Maintaining Your Showroom,” an article found in the February 2008 issue of Kitchen & Bath Design News that talked about the importance of making a lasting impression when a customer walks into a showroom. Thompson C. Price, author of the article said, “As I travel around the country and see numerous kitchen and bath showrooms, it occurs to me that many of the employees who work in them do not have the same commitment to the showroom experience that the owners have. If we keep our showrooms as neat and clean as most of us keep our homes, we would have better showrooms.” We need to get employees to realize that without the customer, there would be no work, so they need to do what they can to keep them.

Following is a list of ways to help keep your showroom neat and tidy:

  • Remove any junk on the countertop that is not needed. Store it in place where it can be easily found if needed.
  • Remove any delivery items such as boxes, as soon as they arrive, so they are not taking up space in the showroom.
  • Place pick up items in a designated spot, instead of leaving them out in a showroom area.
  • Remember to keep a clean bathroom too. There is nothing more frustrating to a customer than a messy bathroom that lacks necessities. Make sure the waste paper baskets are emptied regularly, toilet paper is in place, and that there is soap in the dispenser.
  • If you offer food, or drinks in your showroom, make sure the area is clean and tidy and that it is replenished when needed.
  • Make sure there is a trash can available in the showroom for customers to put trash in.
  • Make sure all lights are functioning on displays. Make sure there are always spare light bulbs, etc.

Are you maintaining your showroom to make a lasting impression for your customers?

Thanks for reading!

Barb

Posted in Granite, Company, Business on February 13th, 2008 by Barb | | 0 Comments



Learning Links 01/16/08



The Green Building movement has become a popular topic of interest over the last couple years, as people are becoming more aware of the need to help sustain the environment. Many builders, remodelers, and subcontractors are educating themselves and taking steps to offer green building practices for their businesses. The natural stone industry has jumped on this new movement and is working to help educate the public. Granite, afterall, is a product of nature, and it makes sense to establish granite countertops as environmentally friendly for building officially.

Following are some links for more information on granite and green building:

Thanks for reading!

Barb

Posted in Granite, Company, Business, Learning Links on January 16th, 2008 by Barb | | 0 Comments



Communicating in a Fast-Paced World



I was thinking the other day, how could it be possible to be unable to get into contact with someone in this day and age? I mean think about it, we have land phone lines, fax machines, computers for emailing, instant messaging, cell phones, text messaging, and pagers.

At PGC, we depend on communication with our customers in order to get the job done properly and beautifully each and every time. With so many forms of communication available, we find that some customers prefer one form, and others prefer another form. I recently came across an article online, “Email Preferred Commincation Method for Execs“. In the article, the author discusses emailing as a form of communication. While it provides both negative and positive aspects, it has continued to rise in popularity over the past decade. The most overwhelming benefit for emailing here at PGC, is the immediacy and historical content that it provides.

Whether emailing, or text messaging is your communication preference, the key is to make sure to review your correspondence and follow-up if necessary. We should not become a society that cannot communicate the old fashioned way…face-to-face, or verbally!

Feel free to share…

Angie

Posted in Company, Business on January 15th, 2008 by Angie | | 6 Comments



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Paramount Granite Company - The Natural Choice

The Paramount Blog

Paramount Granite Company specializes in the fabrication and installation of natural stone countertops, islands, bathrooms, bar tops, fireplaces, furniture, tub surrounds, tile, and more.

Our blog contains info, links, opinions and tips regarding our company, natural stone, our industry, expertise and our projects. We hope you subscribe to our feed!

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