Merchant Magazine Nov. 2025

November 2025

With 82 strategically positioned facilities, 2,600 dedicated employees, and one of the most extensive product offerings of value-added treated lumber, we can deliver in ways few others can.

We use Koppers Performance Chemicals to provide the most environmentally friendly, and effective pressure treated lumber available for a multitude of applications.

Our most popular treatments are NatureWood ® for Copper Azole (CA) treatment, Advance Guard ® for borate and FlamePRO ® for fire retardant.

Recommend hot-dipped galvanized fasteners coupled with Wolmanized® Outdoor® Wood for a project worth bragging about.

NAIL IT.

REDWOOD

Like the foods we buy, when it comes to decking, we want natural and real. Redwood is always available in abundance of options. So stock the shelves! Unlike mass-produced and inferior products, Redwood is strong, reliable and possesses many qualities not found in artificial products. They maintain temperatures that are comfortable in all climates.

Redwood Empire stocks several grades and sizing options of Redwood.

PRESIDENT/PUBLISHER

Patrick Adams padams@526mediagroup.com

VICE PRESIDENT

Shelly Smith Adams sadams@526mediagroup.com

PUBLISHER EMERITUS

Alan Oakes

MANAGING EDITOR

David Koenig dkoenig@526mediagroup.com

SENIOR EDITOR

Sara Graves • sgraves@526mediagroup.com

COLUMNISTS

James Olsen, Claudia St. John, Dave Kahle

CONTRIBUTORS

Matthew Hodjera, Trent Johnson, Paige McAllister, Jake Munson, Katy Tomasulo, Daniel Trebelhorn

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CHANGE OF ADDRESS Send address label from recent issue, new address, and 9-digit zip to address below. POSTMASTER Send address changes to The Merchant Magazine, 151 Kalmus Dr., Ste. J3, Costa Mesa, CA 92626. The Merchant Magazine (ISSN 7399723) (USPS 796-560) is published monthly at 151 Kalmus Dr., Ste. J3, Costa Mesa, CA 92626 by 526 Media Group, Inc. Periodicals Postage paid at Santa Ana, CA, and additional post offices. It is an independently-owned publication for the retail, wholesale and distribution levels of the lumber and building products markets in 13 western states. Copyright®2025 by 526 Media Group, Inc. Cover and entire contents are fully protected and must not be reproduced in any manner without written permission. All Rights Reserved. We reserve the right to accept or reject any editorial or advertising matter, and assumes no liability for materials furnished to it. Opinions expressed are those of the authors or persons quoted and not necessarily those of 526 Media Group, Inc. Articles are intended for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal, financial or business management advice.

Volume 104 • Number 11

Trust the experts with 10 years of experience selling AZEK and TimberTech.

CONTACT US FOR THE FULL LINE OF DECKING, RAILING AND EXTERIORS.

Delivering the elements that elevate your business

Built on industry-leading delivery performance, Weyerhaeuser is the distribution partner you can count on to get you the best building materials available.

FINDING THE GOOD IN THE GRAIN

------------ BY PATRICK ADAMS

I JUST RETURNED home from another industry event. These gatherings always recharge me—being surrounded by the people, products and passion that fuel this industry we love is both humbling and inspiring.

As I walked through the door, my wife asked, “How was it?” I shared the highlights—great conversations, new ideas, and a few laughs. Then she followed up with, “So, what’s everyone’s outlook for the industry?”

That one stopped me for a moment. Over the years, I’ve noticed a familiar pattern in how we answer that question. Unless it’s 2021 or 2022—those rare, booming exceptions—the response is almost always, “It’s OK,” or “Not great,” or “Could be better.” It’s as if there’s an unwritten rule that no one in the lumber and building materials business is allowed to sound too positive.

Don’t get me wrong—I get it. With hundreds of variables impacting your business every hour, it’s a miracle anyone sleeps at night. Prices shift, freight fluctuates, and the weather never seems to cooperate. Yet somehow, you persevere. You adapt. You build.

And you keep this country standing.

Sure, some years are better than others. Occasionally, they’re downright brutal. But in the grand scheme, our industry continues to thrive better than most. So why does our outlook sometimes sound so heavy?

Maybe it’s the world we live in. Negativity has become the default setting. Turn on the news, and it’s a nonstop list of reasons to lose faith in humanity. Ask strangers how they’re doing and then count how many you find before one answers, “I’m great, thanks for asking!”

That negativity seeps into every conversation—even in an industry as strong and resilient as ours. But when we tell each other business is “just OK,” we’re not just stating a mood—we’re shaping a mindset. That attitude filters

down to employees, customers, vendors, even families.

So, what if we decided to change it? What if we stopped waiting for sunny skies and started dancing in the rain?

I remind my friends who despair over politics or the news: I’ve known you through decades of elections and administrations, and through it all, your lives have stayed blessed and full. The storms that dominate the headlines rarely touch what matters most—our families, our work, our communities, and the industries we build together. And truthfully, our industry has plenty to be thankful for. Demand is steady. Our homes and infrastructure still rely on the materials we produce. Mother Nature still makes sure there’s always something to rebuild. Trees are still growing, and homes are still being built from wood— the most natural, renewable building material on earth. Maybe it’s not as wild as 2022, but it’s a whole lot better than 2010.

I’ve always tried to see the glass as half full. I know my mindset is shaped by what I surround myself with—who I listen to, what I watch, and where I focus my energy. The more I fill my world with gratitude and purpose, the more I find them reflected back at me.

So whether it’s an evening walk, a check-in with your spouse, or someone asking, “How’s business?”—try finding the good. Share the positive. Because optimism, like sawdust, has a way of spreading.

As always, it’s an honor to serve this great industry— one built on resilience, craftsmanship and heart. I look forward to seeing many of you at the upcoming fall events and continuing to celebrate the work—and the people— that keep America building.

PATRICK S. ADAMS, Publisher/President padams@526mediagroup.com

SOFTWOOD LUMBER INDUSTRY

The lumber industry has shown strong support for the Softwood Lumber Board since its inception, and in return, the SLB has a proven track record for delivering meaningful results.

• Every $1 invested returns $44 to the industry—the highest ROI of any USDA checkoff program.

• Without the SLB, annual U.S. softwood lumber consumption would have been 3.5% lower.

• The SLB’s investments have generated more than 16 BBF of incremental demand since 2012.

• The SLB’s strategic plan targets 2.9 BBF of new annual demand by 2035 through investment in building segments with high potential.

The SLB is essential for unlocking new market opportunities for softwood lumber that benefit the entire industry and its investors on an individual level.

FUTURE-PROOFING WOOD

THE SCIENCE AND TECH BEHIND TODAY’S TREATED LUMBER

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BY JAKE MUNSON

FOR GENERATIONS, pressure-treated wood has been one of the most reliable and cost-effective building materials in both residential and commercial construction. It’s required by code in critical structural applications such as decks, sill plates, posts, timbers and more because untreated lumber, or even alternative materials, simply cannot deliver the same balance of strength, affordability, and safety. Without it, builders are often forced to turn to more expensive, energy-intensive options such as steel, concrete or petroleum-based composites.

But the role of pressure-treated wood is evolving. Far from being a commodity product, today’s treated lumber represents a sophisticated blend of chemistry, process innovation, and sustainability-focused design. Advances in preservatives and plant technology are transforming what treated lumber can achieve, making it smarter, stronger, and safer than ever before.

The Chemistry of Durability and Safety

The preservatives used in treated lumber have advanced significantly over the last two decades. Modern formula-

tions were developed to replace older chemistries while meeting increasingly rigorous safety and environmental standards. By relying on recycled copper sources and engineering precise retention levels, these preservatives extend wood’s service life while minimizing ecological impact.

Color-infused options have also reshaped consumer expectations. For many years, “green-treated” lumber was the only option, often seen as functional but aesthetically limiting. Today, technologies allow pressure treatment to include rich tones such as redwood, cedar, or walnut, providing design flexibility without sacrificing structural integrity. Builders can now choose wood that not only performs but looks the part.

Other specialty treatments continue to fill critical roles. Borates, for example, are used in sill plates and interior framing where termite resistance is essential, especially in areas affected by aggressive Formosan subterranean termites. Meanwhile, fire-retardant (FR) treatments are meeting stringent building code requirements for commercial structures and wildfire-prone regions. With UL-backed

testing, FR products offer both flame spread resistance and structural reliability, demonstrating how treated wood is keeping pace with evolving safety demands.

Raising the Bar on Environmental Responsibility

One of the most overlooked advantages of treated lumber is its sustainability profile compared to alternative building materials. Lumber begins as a renewable, carbon-sequestering resource. When treated to resist decay, it can last decades longer, which delays the need for replacement and reduces overall resource consumption.

Moreover, the environmental footprint of producing pressure-treated wood is substantially lower than that of concrete, steel, or plastic composites. Wood treaters are increasingly sourcing copper from recycled industrial byproducts, reinforcing the circular economy. Looking ahead, preservative manufacturers are working to reduce metal content even further by developing next-generation chemistries that balance performance with resource efficiency.

Operational Innovation: The Science of Consistency

If chemistry ensures performance, operations ensure trust. At ProWood, our mission is to standardize quality across more than 30 facilities nationwide. Achieving this requires significant investment in automation, real-time monitoring, and data-driven quality control.

Every micronized copper azole (MCA) or Ecolife charge of dimensional lumber or timber we treat is tracked, measured, and sampled against American Wood Protection Association (AWPA) standards. We go beyond compliance, taking up to 50% more samples than required to ensure accuracy. By integrating analytics platforms like Power BI, we’ve created a system where operators, managers, and technical specialists can monitor performance trends in real time and identify issues before they become problems.

This operational transparency benefits the entire supply chain. Builders can trust that a product sourced in Florida meets the same standard as one produced in Colorado, Texas, or the Northeast seaboard. Retailers can depend on reliable inventory flows and predictable delivery cycles. Consumers

receive products that not only meet code but also deliver peace of mind.

Meeting Tomorrow’s Challenges

As building codes evolve, so must treated wood. Fire resistance is one of the most pressing issues, particularly in wildfire-prone regions like California and Colorado, where Wildland-Urban Interface (WUI) regulations are expanding. While FR-treated wood meets code requirements for flame spread and smoke development for interior uses, it does not inherently provide decay resistance. Addressing this dual challenge—fire and decay resistance together—will require collaboration between researchers, manufacturers, and regulators.

Recycling treated wood also presents an opportunity. While cogeneration facilities currently use recycled treated wood for energy production, new technologies are emerging that could enable recycling into composite materials or reengineered wood products. Developing this infrastructure will be essential for the industry’s long-term sustainability.

The Future of Treated Lumber

The treated wood industry has always balanced tradition with innovation. Today, we stand at an inflection point where chemistry, technology and environmental responsibility are converging to redefine what pres-

sure-treated lumber can deliver.

For builders, this means access to a product that is cost-efficient, code-compliant, and increasingly versatile in appearance and performance. For regulators, it demonstrates that industry can meet rising standards without sacrificing accessibility or affordability. And for consumers, it provides confidence that the decks, fences, posts, and structures they rely on are built to last.

The future of pressure-treated wood is bright, but it will require continued research, collaboration, and adaptability. Academic programs in wood science are shrinking, even as demand for innovation grows. Industry leaders must continue investing in R&D, ensuring the next generation of preservative technologies and plant operations remain robust, reliable and ready for the challenges ahead. MM

is director of wood preservation at ProWood, where he oversees technical operations for more than 30 treating plants nationwide. ProWood is a brand of UFP Retail Solutions (www.prowood.com).

NO LONGER A NICHE, MODIFIED WOOD IS TRANSFORMING CONSTRUCTION

WOOD HISTORICALLY has been the material of choice across the building products industry, valued for its natural beauty and versatility. However, its vulnerability to harsh exterior environments (i.e. moisture, insects, etc.), combined with frequent sealing, coating and maintenance requirements, has led to the development of alternative materials like composites, designed to mimic the appearance of wood while offering improved exterior performance. At the same time, growing concerns around deforestation and environmental sustainability have further accelerated the shift away from traditional wood.

But the market is shifting again, and innovation is rewriting the narrative. Modified wood—enhanced through environmentally responsible processes that improve durability, dimensional stability, and weather resistance—is gaining momentum across the industry, bridging the gap between performance and sustainability, offering a compelling alternative to tropical hardwoods that are increasingly seen as environmentally and ethically problematic. Over the past two decades, wood modification has evolved from an academic concept and research to full-scale commercial production, with manufacturers investing in purpose-built facilities to meet the growing demand for this next-generation building material.

For wholesale distributors and lumberyards, modified wood presents a high-demand product category that offers

value-added differentiation and longer lifecycle performance. The increased specification of modified wood products by conscious architects and builders has also been instrumental in allowing them to achieve the appearance of real wood, without the maintenance or performance challenges associated with it, due to its enhanced durability, dimensional stability, and natural aesthetics. For sustainability experts, modified wood offers renewable, responsibly sourced alternatives that support carbon-conscious construction practices and solutions that align with design integrity and environmental responsibility, often meeting or exceeding certification standards for green building.

With rising housing demand, environmental pressures reshaping our forests, and uncertain supply chains, modified wood is poised to play a fundamental role in the next generation of building products and the future of construction. The coming years will be critical for industry stakeholders to understand, appreciate, adopt, and capitalize on this transformative product category.

Breaking Down Modified Wood

Modified wood can be broadly understood by its basic definition; however, specific criteria distinguish true wood modification from other processes that do not meet this standard. At its core, modified wood undergoes a manufacturing process that permanently alters its physical

structure, resulting in a fundamentally improved material. In contrast, treated wood involves the infusion of chemical preservatives into the wood without changing its natural cellular makeup. The key distinction lies in the outcome: modification enhances the wood’s inherent properties, thereby improving its hardness, durability and dimensional stability. Treated wood, on the other hand, relies on the presence of chemical preservatives to resist decay, offering durability through biological toxicity, but with limited moisture resistance.

Three primary technologies that have been refined and commercialized over the past few decades are transforming modified wood. Each process adopts its unique approach to enhancing durability, stability, and overall performance, making it essential to understand the distinctions between them. That said, not all modified wood performs the same, and it’s critical to understand these performance differences when selecting materials for long-term durability and design performance.

Here’s a quick look at how each technology is making an impact.

Thermal modification is a chemical-free process that transforms wood by exposing it to carefully controlled heat in a low-oxygen environment. This treatment permanently alters the wood’s internal cell structure, improving durability and dimensional stability. This process also imparts a rich, dark color to the wood, which can be appealing but may also limit the options for finishing. The process is versatile and can be applied to a wide range of wood species, making it suitable for both interior and exterior applications.

Furfurylation is a wood modification process that involves impregnating the wood with furfuryl alcohol— derived from agricultural plant waste—followed by heat treatment. During this process, the furfuryl alcohol polymerizes within the cell walls, permanently filling the spaces where moisture would normally enter. The result is a darkertoned wood with increased hardness, durability and moisture resistance. This treatment is especially suited for softwoods.

Acetylation is an innovative, advanced and widely studied wood modification process that uses acetic anhydride, which is similar to concentrated vinegar, combined with heat and pressure, to permanently alter the wood’s cellular structure, mitigating the physical consequences of moisture in wood. Acetylation employs a closed-loop system, recycling its acetic acid byproduct, never adding or leaving any foreign or toxic substances in the wood. This transformation dramatically enhances the wood’s dimensional stability, hardness, and long-term durability. The process is typically applied to clear grade radiata pine, maintaining the wood’s natural appearance while allowing for a variety of finish options. This approach offers the beauty of real wood, combined with exceptional performance for the most demanding environments.

The Growing Confidence in Modified Wood Performance

For builders, architects and remodelers, material selection can often hinge on one critical factor: confidence in long-term performance. Modified wood delivers on that promise, offering benefits that combine high functionality with the timeless beauty of natural wood.

Furthermore, since wood can be milled into almost any building component, modified woods are rapidly gaining traction in exterior applications, not only for their guar-

anteed performance but also for their versatility across various uses—whether it’s siding, decking, trim, play structures, or other options. Thanks to their proven resistance to dimensional change and decay, modified woods also become a reliable material in the door, window, and other precision joinery industries, where material dependability is essential.

Leading the Way in Environmental Benefits

The wood species selected for modification are typically sourced from fast-growing, renewable forests, ensuring responsible and sustainable material use. Beyond the fiber source, each modification process also contributes to environmental stewardship in its own way—it simply changes the levels of naturally occurring functional groups within the wood.

Service life is another significant environmental advantage that fuels the adoption of modified woods. Their extended lifespan means products remain in use much longer, helping to maximize carbon storage and reduce the need for frequent replacement—a sensible and sustainable choice for modern construction. Look for third-party certifications that verify responsible sourcing, product safety, and circularity, such as Cradle to Cradle, FSC, PEFC, or the Declare label, which can indicate non-toxicity, complete recyclability, and transparent ingredient disclosure.

A Bright Future for Modified Wood Products

The rising demand for modified wood has sparked a wave of growth and strategic partnerships across the U.S. market. A large-scale Accoya production facility is now operating in Tennessee, building on more than 15 years of successful product importation from Europe.

As the modified wood sector continues to grow, ongoing advancements and partnerships are contributing to broader adoption and higher standards, with North America steadily gaining momentum in delivering durable, sustainable wood solutions. This momentum only supports the growing demand for durable, eco-conscious materials that meet the needs of today’s modern construction and design practices. MM

– Daniel Trebelhorn is technical sales manager, Western North America, for Accsys (www.accoya.com).

THE IMPORTANCE OF CODE LISTINGS FOR MODIFIED WOOD DECKING

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BY MATTHEW HODJERA

MODIFIED WOOD has become increasingly prevalent in decking projects, both residential and commercial. Thermally modified, acetylated, and furfurylated products promise longer life, better resistance to decay, and a smaller environmental footprint.

This is all true. But none of it is validation of its performance and safety. That’s where an ICC code listing comes in.

Why does a code listing matter?

A code listing is evidence that a product has been tested and verified as suitable for the specific structural job for which it has been specified.

For decking and rails it protects both the owners and operators of the finished project as well as and the professionals who specified, installed, or sold it.

Most of the time, when the phrase “code listing” is used in reference to decking, it means the product has met or exceeded the necessary standards required by the International Code Council Evaluation Service (ICCES), under the ICC’s corresponding Acceptance Criteria for that type of decking material. When it comes to modified woods, the relevant Acceptance Criteria is AC47.

There are three types of modified wood that ICC currently defines.

AC47 recognizes:

• Thermally modified – Heat-treated in a high-temperature dry kiln to reduce hemicellulose, the sugars that attract decay organisms.

• Acetylated – Treated with acetic anhydride to stabilize the wood’s cell walls.

• Furfurylated – Treated with furfuryl alcohol, which polymerizes inside the wood.

All three change the wood at a structural level. While they can improve durability, some types can also dramatically increase brittleness, with reductions in flexural strength of sometimes more than 50%, directly affecting span capacity.

Not all modified wood is the same.

Thermally modified wood does not follow a consistent, standardized process. AC47 simply states it must be treated in an “advanced dry kiln,” which leaves room for variation between manufacturers. Without a verified listing, there’s no guarantee of performance or code compliance. At this time, only Kebony has a code listing according to AC47.

Why a distributor or retailer should care.

If a non-listed decking product fails, the specifier or contractor who approved or installed it could be held liable, as could the retailer and/or the manufacturer. The rule is simple. If a modified wood product does not have an ICC-ESR that references AC47, it is not code-listed for structural use, including decking or railing. Modified wood has a place in modern decking and railing, but only when the product comes with the proper documentation. If it is not listed, it should not be installed.

As a retailer, you too should care about ICC certification for decking primarily to mitigate legal and financial liability, build customer confidence, and prevent costly project failures for your contractors. The certification confirms that a decking product is compliant with the most widely accepted building codes in the U.S.

There are good reasons for carrying and selling ICC-certified decking, including:

• Minimizes your legal exposure. If a deck fails due to a defect and a customer suffers damage or injury, the liability can extend beyond the manufacturer to the retailer and other parties in the supply chain. Selling ICC code-listed products can significantly reduce this risk, similar to how driving with a license reduces liability in a car accident.

• Helps you avoid fines and mandatory recalls. Market surveillance authorities can force the recall of non-compliant products, potentially even years after they were sold. This can result in fines and significant financial losses.

• Protects you against project delays and failure. A building inspector can require a deck built with an unlisted product to be removed, even after installation. This causes significant delays and financial hardship for your contractor customers, damaging your business reputation.

• Protects you against claims and lawsuits. If a customer’s home doesn’t pass a resale inspection due to unlisted materials, they could pursue legal action against the retailer. ICC-listed products provide the necessary assurance that the materials meet code requirements.

• Establishes credibility. ICC code listings are a “ticket to credibility” for building materials. Stocking code-listed decking signals to contractors and consumers that your products meet the highest standards of safety, quality, and reliability.

• Builds consumer trust. Many consumers today are aware of building codes and the importance of using safe materials. Offering code-listed decking provides them with peace of mind and confidence in their purchase.

• Helps contractors secure permits. Code-listed products streamline the permit and approval process for your contractor customers. Projects using code-listed materials can often move to the “top of the stack” for review, while unlisted products require more documentation and engineering reviews, leading to delays.

• Increases market access. Many regions with strict regulatory requirements may mandate the use of code-listed materials. Offering code-listed products allows you to serve these broader markets and gain a competitive edge.

• Simplifies the sales process. For contractors, specifying an ICC code-listed product removes uncertainty about code compliance and performance. Your sales team can use this as a key selling point to secure sales quickly and with assurance.

• Provides peace of mind. Having an ICC-ES code-listed product is a third-party assurance that the product has undergone rigorous testing. This gives contractors confidence that the product will perform as promised under real-world conditions.

How distributors and retailers can protect themselves.

Modified wood decking is a great choice for outdoor projects, both residential and commercial, so to avoid legal pitfalls due to performance:

• Insist on an ICC-ESR report for stocking modified wood products (decking).

• Confirm the report covers deck boards and/or guardrails.

• Check allowable spans and labeling requirements. MM

MATTHEW HODJERA

5 TIPS FOR CHOOSING DECKING AND RAILING COLORS

BY KATY TOMASULO

COLOR IS ONE is one of the most important choices pros and homeowners will make when selecting decking and railing. But with so many options, how can they ensure they’re choosing hues that go together while also complementing the home? Envision Outdoor Living Products, manufacturer of Envision composite decking and Fairway deck railings, offers five strategies to help your customers narrow down color selections and ensure looks that last.

1 Consider the Colors of the Home’s Exterior

Finding an ideal composite decking and railing color combination starts by looking at the home’s facade. The colors of the siding, roof, windows and other elements can help guide you to matching tones that complement the home’s overall look.

The best part is that you don’t have to be a color theory expert to find an eye-catching combination. Look to online color palette tools, such as Canva’s Color Palette Generator, that provide suggested color combinations based on uploaded photos. Snap a picture of the home’s exterior and compare the suggested colors to those available from your chosen composite decking and railing lines.

2 Find Decking & Railing Colors That Fit Their Vision

Have the homeowner take a step back and envision their dream outdoor living area. What type of mood or vibe do they want the space to evoke? Are there any specific

activities, such as hosting parties or practicing yoga, that they plan on doing?

With the answers to these types of questions, you can start to focus on what elements are going to make the client’s outdoor living space unique to them. The best railing and decking colors for each project often reflect those details. For example, if they’re looking for a relaxing oasis to enjoy the sunset after work, gray composite deck boards with white aluminum railing could be a good fit.

3 Take Inspiration from Colors That Resonate

Like the colors of any project, so much of the decision comes down to personal preference. Usually, there are colors that we feel more connected to than others. Maybe the homeowner is drawn to hues that have warmer tones, like auburn or bronze. Have them think back to some of the recent home purchases they’ve made—furniture, décor or other building products. Are there any colors that showed up more than once? You also might want to think about eliminating colors that clash with these preferences.

4 Don’t Feel Limited to One Color

Finding the best decking color for a project doesn’t have to mean choosing just one. Using two different colors opens a variety of creative design options while adding more contrast and visual interest. Inlays made with a different composite decking color can create a focal point, for example. Another popular option is a picture frame, in which the deck boards are surrounded by a perimeter of planks in another color. Similar techniques can be used to designate unique areas and functionalities of the deck as well as to create visual separation on longer expanses.

5 Try Before You Buy

Sometimes the best way to find the ideal decking and railing colors is to see them in action. Many manufacturers offer deck board samples shipped directly to customers or via their dealers. Just like paint swatches, you might be surprised at the insight the homeowner can get from seeing a deck sample in the space itself.

In addition, some decking companies offer online design tools in which pros and homeowners can visually mix and match decking and railing products on an image of the home or on a similar stock image. This makes it easy to see how different deck colors look in combination with railings and with the rest of the home’s façade, helping to ease the decision process and avoid buyer’s remorse. MM

The Everyday Deck Screw

Seating Nibs: Perfect flush finish Star Drive: Eliminates cam-out

U-Clean Out Threads: Reduces board separation

Serrated Threads: Eliminates board splitting

Type 17: No pre-drilling

Our proprietary XL1500 coating has been tested by the International Code Council® and has been shown to exceed the protection offered by hot-dipped galvanized fasteners. It is approved for the use in exterior applications and ACQ lumber.

SELLING LIGHTING FOR OUTDOOR KITCHENS

LIGHTING OUTDOOR KITCHENS has evolved far beyond the finishing touch. Today, it’s integral to how the space looks, functions and feels.

Jason Faist, North American product trainer for in-lite, says effective lighting relies on three layers: task, ambient, and accent lighting.

Task lighting is the workhorse, playing a critical role over grills, sinks and prep areas, where focused light ensures safe, accurate cooking. “Nothing is worse than trying to cook the perfect steak in the dark,” he says. Wall-mounted ambient lighting defines the space with a welcoming vertical glow, while recessed accent lighting adds depth and drama to the space.

Ensuring the three layers of lighting work cohesively starts with a solid lighting design. “Coordinating with other trades early on is key to planning fixture placement and running low-voltage cable during construction,” says Faist. Pre-planning pays off, he adds. By integrating lighting into walls or structures early, builders

can create a clean, finished look that saves time later. “A strong lighting design helps ensure that aesthetics and functionality work hand-in-hand from the start.”

Builders, Faist adds, want lighting systems that are durable, flexible and low-maintenance. They want fixtures that withstand the elements and avoid callbacks. “Systems that are expandable offer added value—especially when backed by strong warranties.”

For instance, when lighting cabinetry, Faist says he prefers a hybrid approach. Standalone fixtures offer flexibility and ease of maintenance, while integrated options—such as in-lite’s Hyve, Dot or Fusion—recessed into cabinetry or counters, deliver a polished, high-end look.

As for trends, Faist sees a growing demand for smart control and customizable color options. These features allow homeowners to adapt lighting scenes to suit any outdoor gathering. “Homeowners love being able to control zones and dim lighting from their phones,” he says.

Overall, he says, customers want smarter lighting control and clean, timeless design that “blends in during the day, transforms the space at night, and works effortlessly through apps or automation.” MM

ROSBORO X-BEAM® IS NOW 2.0E!

Your stock glulam program just got better

The beam that revolutionized glulam in 2010 as the industry’s first fullframing-width architectural beam just got an upgrade. Introducing X-Beam® 2.0E—engineered with a 2.0E true modulus of elasticity to span farther and deflect less than any other 24F-V4 stock glulam. Rosboro X-Beam® 2.0E; there is no match.

“THANKS FOR THE NUMBER, I’LL LET YOU KNOW...”

NOTHING CAN BE more frustrating than working up an offering for a customer and then having them tell us, “Thanks for the number, James, I’ll let you know…”

No salesperson is needed because no selling is involved; we just give a number and wait for the call-back or call back ourselves to find the product has already been bought. The only thing worse than losing orders is working for an order but never really having the opportunity to compete for it!

Below are two sure-fire ways to get out of the quoting business and get into the selling business!

Offer Product

One of the best ways to compete on price is to offer product and/or product solutions for our customers. Many of the salespeople we compete against every day are just shopping services. They never propose anything to the customer. If we never propose anything to our customers they are going to start treating us like shopping services.

Every sales training customer I work with tells me they want to form a “partnership” relationship with their customers. If all we are is a shopping service, our customers will never treat us as partners. Imagine you own a business with a partner who never has an idea. They always come to you and ask you what to do next. This may be nice for getting our own way, but after awhile we are not going to feel like being “partners” with this person.

Our customers feel the same way. The last thing they need is another person asking them what they should

------------ BY JAMES OLSEN

do next. This is what most salespeople do. They are too lazy to work up a proposal for their customer. They ask the customer, “Is there anything you are looking for today?” What this question really says to the customer is, “Hey, John, I’m too lazy to work for you today, will you work for me? Will you tell me exactly what you need and exactly what you want to pay for it?” “Will you negotiate with yourself, so I don’t have to?” These same salespeople complain about how poorly they are treated by customers.

After our initial call to our customer, we should never call and ask them, “What do you need?” We should have found this out on our prospect call. After the prospect call we should always call with a product, a solution or deal that will interest our customer. When we call and offer a solution or product we are setting ourselves up with our customers as partners.

“What do you think of my deal?”

One of the best ways to break through the “Thanks for the number, I’ll let you know” scenario is to ask the question, “What do you think of my deal?” Customers will often answer, “Gosh, I don’t know, I need to get more numbers, I just started shopping for this, I haven’t bought it in awhile, I’ll let you know, etc.” None of these answers allows us to do our job, sell. They all make us shopping services. The customer has an idea about your offering or they wouldn’t be listening in the first place.

It is our job to get them to share their idea. We need to persist: “I under-

stand you have to get other numbers, but what do you think of what I am offering?”

Be prepared to go back and forth a couple of times, but please persist with the “What do you think of what I am offering?” question. This can cause some friction. So what? If we let our customers off the hook after we have given them our offer, we severely lower our closing percentages. Do we really think the customer is going to “Let us know?” “Call us back?” They may, but not as often as we need them to!

Getting our customers to talk about our deal is the beginning of closing. We surely cannot get to a closing situation by accepting the, “I’ll let you know…” response. We must get our customers to talk about what we are proposing. When our customer begins to talk about what they like or dislike about our offering, we are in a closing situation and can now sell the customer.

In competitive markets we must make ourselves partners by offering product solutions and we must force the issue from time to time with the “What do you think of what I’m offering you?” question. MM

JAMES OLSEN

SCARY HR STORIES

------------ BY PAIGE McALLISTER

ALONG WITH leaves starting to fall and the aroma of pumpkin spice filling the air, signs of Halloween have been everywhere. While others see spooky or fun symbols of the holiday, they make us reflect on some of the scariest HR stories we have heard recently.

Ghosts: “We had an employee just disappear on us. He worked for us for several months, but then, one day, just stopped showing up. It’s been a week now, and there’s been no word from him, even though we have tried calling him. What do we do?”

Unfortunately, “ghosting” is nothing new in the workplace, where employees no longer report to work and fail to call in to explain their absence. It can also occur when an employee fails to return as scheduled after an approved leave of absence. The actions you can take depend on the situation, but usually you can terminate an employee for this “no call, no show” after two or three days of them not reporting in or calling out, especially if employment is atwill and you have a policy stating what will happen in this case. While not required, you may want to try contacting them (via text, call, or email) or even reach out to their emergency contact to ensure they are okay. If you decide to terminate them, notify them by sending a simple notice outlining the termination date, date of final pay, COBRA, and how to return company-issued items.

Zombies: “OK, so we finally fired that employee since we never heard from them after two weeks. But now, after a month, they have come in, expecting to get back to work. What do we do? Do we need to rehire them?”

It’s incredible, but some employees don’t understand that they can’t just disappear and come back to a job like nothing happened. Typically, you do not need to rehire the employee. Still, you might consider it in a couple of situations.

If they explain that they were in the hospital with no access to their phone, didn’t know the number, and couldn’t

call in until now, then you can ask for more details and documentation from a healthcare provider as to where they have been. If it checks out, you can rehire them (but ask for a release back to work to make sure they are physically able to work without further injury).

Or if you have not been able to fill their position and desperately need someone, you could rehire them but have them sign a document acknowledging that another “no call, no show” will be immediate termination and not rehireable. You can also put them on probation so that if they do anything wrong, they will face escalated disciplinary action (just be sure to note that employment is at-will during and after the probation period).

Haunted house: “We offer flexible scheduling to help our employees balance their personal needs while meeting their job commitments. Most employees appreciate this, as evidenced by their increased focus during work hours and their longer tenure. However, we have one employee who has started working many overnight hours when no one else is available and has even missed some team meetings; she is also unavailable when everyone else is working. While employees have individual tasks that can be done at any time, there are things she needs to collaborate on with others, which is impossible when she works these hours. Do we need to allow her to work these hours?”

It can be disheartening when an employee abuses a policy that everyone else values, especially when that poor behavior impacts their colleagues. In this situation, it is essential to define “availability” as a job requirement. Consider setting “core hours” when all employees must be available, and then let them flex their work hours outside of those hours. (This is also helpful when employees work across different time zones.) Include language in your policy that reserves your right to require an employee to work certain hours and/or attend required meetings, events or trainings. You also reserve the right to rescind the flexible schedule benefit for any employee if necessary.

Black cat: “An employee just informed us that she needs to bring her cat into the office as her ‘emotional support animal.’ We have previously assisted employees with temporary accommodations, such as flexible schedules and working from home while they recover, but this will be a long-term need. Do we need to allow this?”

An employee cannot put a special vest on a cat (or any other animal) and claim it is a legitimate service animal. Service animals that aid individuals with a medical condition (e.g., diabetes, seizures or allergies) undergo rigorous training and are often considered an accommodation under the ADA. Still, you need to determine if their presence in the workplace is reasonable.

“Emotional support” animals are not covered under the ADA; however, you may need to consider them depending on several factors, including the employee’s emotional disability that requires the animal, how the animal assists the employee, and the animal’s training to be in public. The more serious the condition and the more well-trained the animal to help with that condition, the more likely you should permit the animal in the workplace. If an employee provides documentation from their healthcare provider verifying the need for the animal and that the employee cannot function without it, and if the animal is well-trained to be in public places, such as the workplace, then you may want to allow the animal on a trial basis.

As with any accommodation request, you should engage in an interactive dialogue process that includes

Q. We offer paid holidays to employees. Are we required to pay holidays to all employees?

A. In most cases, holiday pay is a benefit employers can offer voluntarily (although some states require certain holidays), which means you can establish any criteria you want as to which employees are eligible as long as you are consistent. For example, you can offer holiday pay to all employees, only regular employees, or only full-time employees while also defining the number of hours to be considered full-time.

You can also decide which holidays you observe and which of those, if any, you will pay for. While many companies observe six common ones (New Year's Day, Memorial Day, Fourth of July, Labor Day, Thanksgiving and Christmas), some companies offer added days such as the Friday after Thanksgiving or the day before or after Christmas. Other companies observe only one or two holidays a year because their industry (e.g., retail, hospitality and janitorial) typically expects them to work on holidays.

Some companies expand the benefit by offering flex holidays to allow employees time off for their personal religious, cultural or lifestyle priorities (i.e., Passover, Kwanzaa or participating in a cancer walk).

Even if you close the company for a holiday, you do not need to pay non-exempt employees for these holidays, but you can.

Whatever you decide to offer, you should draft a comprehensive policy that includes who is eligible, observed holidays, whether they are paid or unpaid, and whether employees will receive any extra pay for working on an observed holiday.

documentation from the health care provider that directs limitations and needs for accommodation, the employee’s requested accommodation, and your analysis of what can be offered without creating a legitimate undue hardship on the company.

Spiderweb: “Like most companies, we have an ‘office gossip’ who shares way too much about her life and things she knows about others, even if inappropriate. Not only does she talk a lot during breaks, but it has eroded her productivity and that of those who interact with her, whether they want to or not. To make things worse, she is our HR person. This creates added concern, as she knows a great deal of confidential information about the company and its employees. How do we address this?”

It is frustrating any time an employee disrupts the workplace, especially when it negatively impacts productivity, focus and morale. The more severe the impacts, the more you should address them with disciplinary action, escalating as necessary if the issue persists.

Things become more serious if the gossipy employee is HR or management, as these employees are trusted with sensitive information. Even if they do not blatantly betray confidences, this behavior can call their trustworthiness and decision-making into question, resulting in employees no longer trusting them or the company that places them in roles of responsibility. As such, disciplinary action should be escalated along with possible probation or even termination. MM

– Paige McAllister, SPHR, SHRM-SCP, is vice president for compliance with The Workplace Advisors, Inc. Reach her at (877) 660-6400 or paige@theworkplaceadvisors.com.

DISCONTENT IS THE BEGINNING OF GROWTH

------------ BY DAVE KAHLE

DURING MY 30+ years of training sales forces to sell better, I’ve noticed in any group of salespeople, 20% to 30% are eager to learn and enthusiastic about trying some of the practices I teach. Of the remainder, some try to apply some of the lessons. Others fail to adjust their behavior at all.

What is it that distinguishes the eager learners from the rest of the pack? They are discontented. I have concluded that without a serious amount of discontent, there will be no significant change in behavior.

Let’s create some context. “Change in behavior” is the reason people hire someone like me to improve their sales force. Learning, for adults on the job, is not defined as acquiring more facts, as it may be in academic circles. For adults on the job, learning always involves a change in behavior. Training is designed to equip the trainees to do something differently and to do something better. It is always defined by what they do, not what they know. I often tell audiences that I don’t care what they know. They are paid for what they do, not what they know.

Nor is learning defined by how they feel. I often have people come up at the end of a seminar to tell me they feel great, that they have “learned a lot.” I don’t say this (because it would be rude), but I think: “You don’t know that you have learned anything until your warm feelings express themselves in behavior change. Check with me two months from now and tell me what you are doing differently. Then I’ll believe that you have learned.” Good feelings may be nice. By themselves,

they don’t change behavior.

In sales, as in many other endeavors, becoming better means doing something differently—behaving in better ways. Behavior often bubbles up out of habit. That means changing ingrained habits. And changing habits is difficult.

Learning requires a bit of humility. Attempting to do something better implies the realization that you are not perfect at it now. That alone scares some people off, as they are too insecure to admit that they can improve.

Learning requires an investment of time and often money, but the big price is emotional energy. For the most part, to change a habit means that you must work at it, and working at something so difficult requires a huge dose of energy and conviction. You’ve got to decide that you can improve, and that you should improve. That’s where most people become sidetracked. They realize that changing a habit is going to be hard, and they just don’t want to expend the energy to do so.

And that brings us to discontent. Discontent is a deep desire to change one’s circumstances by changing oneself. Discontent arises out of wanting to change some aspect of your circumstances. Discontent recognizes that by changing yourself you impact your circumstances.

The reason why only 20%-30% of a training class eagerly embraces the training is that the rest don’t want to invest the amount of emotional energy it will take to change habits. They see the resulting change in their behavior

as not worth the effort. When it comes down to it, they are content with their circumstances. Given the choice of investing in change or maintaining the status quo, they choose the status quo.

Over 100 years ago, James Allen recognized this phenomenon: “Men are often interested in improving their circumstance, but are unwilling to improve themselves, they therefore remain bound.”

While contentment may be a wonderful goal to chase, it squashes growth before it has a chance to germinate. I’m certainly not the first person to recognize the role of discontentment in growth. Thomas Edison said, “Restlessness and discontent are the necessities of progress.”

And Nathanial Hawthorn observed: “The world owes all its onward impulses to men ill at ease. The happy man inevitably confines himself within ancient limits.”

If there is nothing you want to become, acquire or do better—if there is nothing you want to make better in your life—then there is no discontent. Without discontent, there is no reason to change. Discontent is the necessary precursor to growth. MM

DAVE KAHLE

Dave Kahle is a leading sales authority, having written 12 books and presented in 47 states and 11 countries. For more information, visit davekahle.com.

Introducing the Simpson Strong-Tie ® EasyFrame automated marking system. A combination saw and printer, EasyFrame cuts detailed wall panel framing members that are pre-marked for fast, accurate assembly. Designed for efficiency, EasyFrame prints framing plans directly onto lumber, including locations of boards, connectors, wiring and more. It can be paired with a manual or automated saw, and features a blade enclosure for safety. Powerful software also lets you ensure precision and optimize material use. EasyFrame is supported by our installation and onboarding services, training and technical expertise. It’s a smart way to equip customers for wall panel jobs while setting your business apart. Add EasyFrame to your lumber sales area. To learn more, visit easyframesaw.com or call (800) 999-5099.

WASHINGTON YARD CLOSES AFTER 75 YEARS

Martin Lumber & Hardware, Everett, Wa., permanently closed on Oct. 11 after 75 years in business. Equipment and remaining inventory was scheduled to be auctioned off on Oct. 30.

Dan and Jeanie Coleman, owners for the last 30-plus years, said the business was no longer profitable and that they were ready to retire.

Recent challenges included the 2024 bankruptcy of their former hardware supplier, True Value; the rise of concrete and steel studs in construction as an alternate to lumber; the dwindling number of local small independent home builders; and larger developers’ preference of buying mill direct.

Jeanie Coleman’s father, Jim Martin, founded the yard in 1950. She served as bookkeeper until the pandemic, when she passed her duties to her daughter, Paige.

Due to expansion, Martin Lumber & Hardware has moved three times over the years, ending up at its current location in 1976. Dan Coleman anticipates his site will give way to an apartment or office building.

CAPITAL RELOCATES OREGON FACILITY

Capital Lumber, Phoenix, Az., has relocated to a new, upgraded facility in Donald, Or. The move represents Capital’s continued growth and commitment to better serving customers throughout the region.

The new location offers roughly 110,000 sq. ft. of warehouse space on over 8 acres, featuring a modern office, spacious breakroom, and a pristine warehouse.

Capital has 10 distribution facilities in the West.

Armorite® Exterior Trim Now Available at Atlantic Forest Products

------------| DEALER BRIEFS

Westlake Ace Hardware opened its 22nd location in California on Oct. 3—18,000-sq. ft. Ace of Rancho Santa Margarita (Cesar Velasco, general mgr.).

Brazilian Lumber has moved its Southern California location 10 miles north from Gardena to Los Angeles.

ABC Supply Co. opened a new branch in Lancaster, Ca., managed by Rommell Blandino.

International Wood Products, Clackamas, Or., has become the exclusive distributor of Benjamin Obdyke’s complete product portfolio in Northern California and Nevada. IWP has been selling Benjamin Obdyke products into the region on a non-exclusive basis since 2020.

BlueLinx has expanded its distribution of New Castle Steel deck framing to its Spokane, Wa., distribution center, which serves Idaho, Washington, Oregon and western Montana.

Central States Inc. has begun production of metal framing components at its new 100,000-sq. ft. manufacturing facility in Tooele, Ut.

White Cap has acquired 40-year-old Advanced Forming Solutions, Castle Rock, Wa., a provider of concrete forming and shoring solutions and equipment to large-scale projects in commercial, civil, government and institutional end markets in the Pacific Northwest.

Black Bart Hoo-Hoo Club hosted its 1st annual Family Picnic Oct. 18 beneath the towering redwoods at century-old Sturgeon’s Mill in Sebastopol, Ca., drawing 63 guests.

Armorite Exterior Trim is fully reversible with smooth and modern woodgrain textures, and it’s sealed and primed with eased edges for easy finishing. Installerfriendly and durable, it delivers superior machinability, cutting and fastening. Plus, it’s backed by a 50-year limited warranty you and your customers can count on.

To learn more, call (888) 498-0756 or visit atlanticforest.com

The Most Influential Event in Lumber

March 16-18, 2026

The Ritz-Carlton Laguna Niguel

NAWLA’s T‑100 is the premier event designed for the top 100 owners and senior executives in the lumber and building materials industry. This curated experience offers a refined setting for high-impact dialogue, strategic connection and forward‑thinking collaboration.

Set along the California coast, T-100 is where visionaries gather to define what’s next—for their companies, for the supply chain and for the industry at large.

CAMERON ASHLEY OPENS SO. CALIFORNIA DC

Cameron Ashley Building Products, Greenville, S.C., opened its newest distribution center in Ontario, Ca., expanding its West Coast footprint and strengthening its ability to serve customers throughout the Inland Empire, Los Angeles, and surrounding markets.

The facility will stock fiberglass insulation, mineral wool, spray foam, rigid board, sheathing and related accessories, giving customers faster access to the products they need for residential and commercial projects.

“Southern California is one of the most dynamic construction markets in the country, and our customers deserve a partner who can move at their pace,” said Cameron Ashley regional vice president Aaron Davis. “By opening in Ontario, we are strategically positioned to reduce delivery times, keep projects on schedule, and provide the local expertise our customers depend on. Our mission is clear: help customers win more jobs, improve profitability, and grow their businesses.

The Ontario facility complements Cameron Ashley’s existing California network, which includes distribution centers in Visalia and Sacramento.

The Ontario DC will be supported by a dedicated local team led by district manager Chris Kizorek, who oversees operations across Southern California. “Our Ontario team is excited to serve customers in this fast-growing market,” Kizorek said.

“We are focused on getting the right products to the jobsite quickly and backing it up with expertise and service our customers can count on.”

Cameron Ashley operates more than 70 distribution centers across the country.

BUILDERS FIRSTSOURCE ACQUIRES 2 LAS VEGAS MILLWORK PROVIDERS

Builders FirstSource has completed two millwork acquisitions in the Las Vegas area—Builder’s Door & Trim and Rystin Construction.

“Builder’s Door & Trim and Rystin Construction bring strong customer relationships and reputations for excellence in turnkey millwork solutions,” said Builders FirstSource president and CEO Peter Jackson. “These acquisitions support our strategic focus on investing in high-return opportunities that expand our value-added product offerings in desirable geographies. With no prior BFS millwork operations in the region, these acquisitions fill a critical gap and enhance our ability to deliver comprehensive solutions to customers. I’m excited to welcome both the Builder’s Door & Trim and Rystin Construction team members to Builders FirstSource.”

Builder’s Door & Trim and Rystin Construction had aggregate TTM sales of approximately $48 million as of June 30, 2025.

Rystin Construction is a family-

owned finish carpentry subcontractor that has been providing high quality work for over 30 years. Its full-service door shop, Premier Door and Trim, was added in 1998.

Henderson, Nv.-based Builder's Door & Trim specializes in doors for large homes and developments.

Headquartered in Irving, Tx., Builders FirstSource operates in 43 states with approximately 585 locations.

LOWE’S FINALIZES FBM PURCHASE

Lowe’s Companies, Inc. completed the acquisition of Foundation Building Materials, Santa Ana, Ca.-based distributor with over 370 locations across the U.S. and Canada.

The acquisition of FBM is expected to enhance Lowe’s offering to pro customers through an expanded product assortment, faster fulfillment, improved digital tools, and a robust trade credit platform. It will provide Lowe’s with growth opportunities to expand its pro footprint, given its complementary presence in key geographies like California, the Northeast and the Midwest. It also creates significant cross-selling opportunities between FBM and Lowe’s as well as the recently acquired Artisan Design Group.

FBM will continue to be led by Ruben Mendoza, who founded the company in 2011, and its senior leadership team with over 200 years of combined industry experience.

IWF ADDING WESTERN SHOW IN 2027

The International Woodworking Fair Atlanta will produce an all-new trade show and conference built to extend and expand IWF’s long-running Atlanta franchise.

IWF West will debut Aug. 25-27, 2027 in San Antonio, Tx., in a threeday trade show built to serve both the burgeoning southwestern U.S. marketplace and IWF’s large national customer base. The new show will bring the best of the Atlanta product mix together with manufacturers making their IWF debut. The San Antonio event will also deliver its own unique blend of features and focus, separate and apart from Atlanta.

In research conducted among current IWF Atlanta exhibitors, 56% liked the IWF West concept, with 64% liking its key attributes such as location, accessibility for buyers, and show duration.

MOVERS & SHAKERS

Doug Willis, product manager at California Timberline, Chino, Ca., is set to retire Nov. 21 after 54 years in the industry. He began his career at 17 with O’Malley’s BMC in Phoenix.

Deonn DeFord, ex-Ganahl Lumber, has joined Maximo Wood, in West Coast business development. He is based in Orange, Ca.

Taryn Taylor has been promoted to branch mgr. at Boise Cascade, Denver, Co.

Steve Mitchell, ex-Weyerhaeuser, has been named vice president-merchandising, purchasing & advertising for Ganahl Lumber, Anaheim, Ca. Edward Arreola, ex-Home Depot, is a new outside sales rep with Ganahl.

Thom Wright, ex-Sierra Forest Products, is new to sales & marketing at Neiman Enterprises, Hulett, Wy. He is based in Rancho Mirage, Ca.

Thayne Sturdevant has joined the outside sales team at Sears Trostel Lumber, Fort Collins, Co., covering the Denver area.

Gaby Sizemore will stay on to manage Golden State Lumber & Showroom, Sacramento, Ca., after selling The Window and Door Shop to Golden State.

Michael Weisner, ex-Alpinewest Resources, is new to Lumber Runner Trading, Meridian, Id., as senior trader.

Darin White, ex-Caesarstone US, has been named vice president of sales for the Door Division of Woodgrain, Fruitland, Id.

Christian F. Vazquez, ex-Ocean View Doors & Windows, is new to outside millwork sales for Dixieline Lumber & Home Centers, San Diego, Ca.

Justin May, ex-Future Logistics, has been named transportation mgr. at Disdero Lumber Co., Clackamas, Or.

Aida Zaragoza, ex-Channel Lumber, is now in inside sales with Dolan Lumber, Doors & Windows, Concord, Ca.

Kayla Seegmiller, ex-Associated Building Specialties, is a new territory pro sales rep for OrePac Building Products, Denver, Co. Thary Tho, formerly with Evergreen Millwork, is new to inside sales at OrePac in Tacoma, Wa.

William Young is a new account mgr. at Squires Lumber Co., Colton, Ca.

Mike Flood has been promoted to chief operating officer at Kodiak Building Partners, Englewood, Co. Beau Hayes was elevated to senior VP of channel strategy.

Martin Felsinger, ex-Collins, is new to Roseburg Forest Products, Riddle, Or., as safety mgr.

Erik Wilson, ex-Weyerhaeuser, was appointed executive VP of the Pacific Lumber Inspection Bureau, Federal Way, Wa.

Paul Owen has resigned as president of Vanport International, Boring, Or., after 37 years with the company.

Emily Alexander, ex-iCabinetry, is new to Hayward Lumber, Santa Barbara, Ca., as a designer & sales consultant.

John Beers III, Georgia-Pacific, was named board of trustees chair for APA. Brian Cullen, PWT, Burlington, Wa., also joined the board.

Jeff Ward, VP, Mendo Mill & Lumber Co., Ukiah, Ca., has been elected Snark of the Universe, the highest leadership position within Hoo-Hoo International.

Frank Addiego, All Bay Mill & Lumber, was elected chair of the National Lumber & Building Material Dealers Association. He succeeds Mark Zemrowski, Von Tobel Corp. New vice chair is Carin Brock, US LBM Holdings, and treasurer Sandy Zelka, Curtis Lumber. Scott Yates, president, Denver Lumber Co., Denver, Co., was honored with NLBDMA’s Distinguished Lifetime Service Award.

Thor Luther threw a tantrum after placing second in the recent sales contest at Mungus-Fungus Forest Products, Climax, Nv., report owners Hugh Mungus and Freddy Fungus.

WHITE CAP ADDS SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA DC

White Cap celebrated the grand opening of its first Enterprise Distribution Center (EDC) in Perris, Ca.

“We’re proud to open our doors in Perris and get to work, and even more proud to be part of this vibrant Southwest California community,” said chief supply chain officer Tracy Rosser. “This facility was designed around our customers’ needs. From strategic inventory deployment to faster order turnaround and smarter routing for last-mile delivery, our EDC will ensure our customers get what they need, when and where they need it.”

The new 332,335-sq. ft. facility currently employs 42 associates, with plans to grow to over 60 as operations

White Cap operates approximately 500 branches across North America with more than 10,500 employees supporting approximately 200,000 customers.

STELLA-JONES ACQUIRING TREATER BROOKS

Stella-Jones has agreed to pay $140 million for the assets of Brooks Manufacturing Co., Bellingham, Wa.

Founded in 1915, Brooks supplies a wide array of treated wood distribution crossarms and transmission framing components that play a vital role in ensuring the strength and reliability of overhead electrical systems.

DO IT BEST HONORS MEMBERS OF THE YEAR

Do it Best proudly announces its 2025 Members of the Year, recognizing outstanding independent business owners who exemplify the spirit of independent retail and demonstrate an unwavering commitment to serving their communities.

Winners in the West included:

• City Lumber Co., Astoria, Or.

• Peters Hardware, Spokane Valley, Wa.

• G.W. Hardware, Woodburn, Or.

• Choice Hardware & Home Center, Nephi, Ut.

• Josephs’ Hardware & Home Center, Fort Collins, Co.

• Oil & Gas Equipment Corp., Flora Vista, N.M.

The award celebrates members who not only achieve excellence in business, but also make a lasting impact through service, leadership and community engagement.

ROSEBURG EXITS HARDWOOD PLYWOOD

Roseburg Forest Products, Springfield, Or., has ceased operations at its hardwood plywood facility in Dillard, Or., and is exiting the hardwood plywood market. The move reflects the company’s long-term plan to concentrate resources on a more-focused product portfolio with sustained customer demand and long-term growth potential.

The Dillard Hardwood Plywood plant, part of the company’s Dillard complex that also includes MDF and lumber production, was one of the firm’s longestoperating facilities. The plant’s 107 team members were encouraged to apply for open positions at other facilities and will receive dedicated support and resources during the transition. All other operations at the Dillard complex will continue.

While hardwood plywood has been part of Roseburg’s portfolio for decades, the market has shifted significantly, with lower-cost imports now accounting for roughly 80% of the U.S. market.

“Successful businesses never stand still, and that’s been true for Roseburg for 90 years,” said Stuart Gray, president and CEO. “As we look to the future, we’re sharpening our focus on the products and capabilities that support the best use of our high-quality veneers and fiber, backed by continued investment in operational excellence. That includes our ongoing commitment to core product lines like engineered wood, MDF, lumber, and softwood plywood.”

Since April 2023, Roseburg has invested nearly $700

long-term growth and regional economic vitality. These investments include the launch of Armorite Exterior Trim at the company’s new Dillard Components facility, as well as upgrades and modernization efforts across existing plants in Douglas and Coos counties.

“Our hardwood plywood manufacturing legacy extends back to 1952, and we appreciate everything our operations teams have done to stay competitive,” Gray said. “But our evolution as an organization speaks to changing markets, evolving customer needs, and following the best course for long-term success.’’

KNECHT HOME CENTERS RENAMED MEAD

After 97 years, Knecht Home Center has officially changed its name to Mead Lumber. The changeover includes stores in Gillette and Sheridan, Wy.; Cañon City, Co.; and Rapid City and Spearfish, S.D.

“For 25 years, Knecht Home Center has been part of the Mead Lumber family, and this step brings that relationship full circle,” said Dave Anderson, president and CEO of Mead Lumber. “As a 100% Employee-Owned company, we are proud to honor Knecht’s legacy while moving forward under one unified brand. This change strengthens our identity, supports our employee-owners, and reinforces our commitment to providing customers with trusted service and quality products.”

Mead Lumber acquired the Rapid City, Spearfish and Gillette locations in 2000, added Sheridan in 2006, and Cañon City in 2011. Since its start in 1928, Knecht Home Center has been a trusted source for building materials and retail hardware.

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BACK

HONEST FEEDBACK

Thank you, Patrick, for your article in The Merchant (“A Precious Gift We Can’t Afford to Squander,” Oct., p. 8) about keeping our country together. Well said!

We all have different views about the details of how we want our gov-

CAPITAL GOES TO SAN DIEGO

ernment to serve us. It’s vital that we see each other as humans and that we denounce efforts to dehumanize us or turn us against each other.

Nick Klohs

Eugene Forest Products, Eugene, Or.

I look forward to reading your articles each month. They put a lot of perspectives into simple truths. For

me, one of the best lines you wrote: “We’re letting ourselves be divided by the loudest voices with the biggest megaphones.”

I feel very privileged and honored to live in America! Thank you for your heartfelt words of wisdom.

David Beckham Payless Surplus & Building Material, Fort Worth, Tx.

CAPITAL LUMBER hosted its most recent Boards Brews & Screws networking event Oct. 15 at AleSmith Brewing Co., San Diego, Ca. More than 150 architects, builders, contractors, vendors and 50+ dealer representatives gathered under one roof for product demos, networking, axe throwing, golf simulators, food, drinks, and prizes. [ 1 ] Capital organizers Melanie Hindi, Joe Allotta, Bill Young, Eileen Solis. [ 2 ] Young and sales manager Allotta oversaw the awarding of raffle prizes. [3] Jonathan Mighdoll, Westlake Royal/TruExterior. [ 4 ] Erika Behring, AZEK Exteriors. [ 5 ] Jared Hensley, Rosboro. [6] Oliver Heidhues, Wild Hog.

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Offered in 1-1/4", 1-5/8", 2", 2-1/2", 3", 3-1/2", and 4" lengths, their tan color blends into most wood projects.

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HORIZONTAL CABLE RAIL

Westbury Bella Cavo horizontal cable railing from Digger Specialties Inc. offers a sleek upscale design with thin horizontal stainless-steel cables framed by durable aluminum posts. This design maximizes views while providing a modern aesthetic appearance.

The railing comes in a choice of 4-, 6- and 8-ft. sections in either 36" or 42" heights, and is available with matching adjustable 36" and 48" wide gates. In addition to distinctive architectural elements, Bella Cavo incorporates labor-saving installation features that speed installation and lower cost.

Systems are available in an industry leading 12 colors with the option of textured or non-textured surfaces.

DIGGERSPECIALTIES.COM

(800) 446-7659

PRECISION DECK FRAMING

ProWood has launched TrueFrame Joist, a performance-driven deck framing solution engineered for professional builders who demand precision, stability and efficiency on every job.

Available in 2x8, 2x10, and 2x12 in lengths of 12, 14, 16, and 20 ft., the joists deliver optimal spans and consistent sizing for dependable framing that exceeds expectations. Under wet-use conditions, they span up to 20 7" for 2x12 at 12" OC, outperforming typical framing materials while reducing callbacks.

Joists feature ProWood's new enhanced preservation treatment with proprietary additives, ensuring less checking, greater stability, and straighter boards. Treated to meet UC4A Ground Contact standards, they deliver unmatched durability in substructure applications. Color infusion ensures lasting beauty for projects demanding visible framing. Each joist is factory-planed within 1/16" for flat edges and uniform sizing.

TrueFrame is now available in the Denver metro area and is coming to new markets throughout the Great Lakes and Northeastern regions in early 2026.

PROWOOD.COM (844) 529-5882

BLACK FRAMES

A black frame option has been added to Westlake Royal Windows’ Magnolia Collection, featuring a sleek black finish on both its interior and exterior surfaces.

Drawing inspiration from classic Southern architecture, Magnolia windows boast multi-chambered vinyl profiles, welded frame/sash, aluminum sash reinforcement, integral nailing fin, and dual weatherstripping.

WESTLAKEROYALBUILDINGPRODUCTS.COM (800) 521-8486

PASS-THRU AWNING WINDOW

WinDoor has launched a new Pass-Through Awning Window said to offer smooth, effortless operation while ensuring safety and security.

Model AW9942A/AW9842A features a continuous top hinge and stainless concealed gas springs with an anti-drift feature that remain completely hidden when closed, reducing visual obstruction compared to similar models on the market. A single-point locking mechanism and inline ladder pull handles add convenience, while an optional bottom sill and Diamond Glass provide even more design flexibility.

Able to support units up to 32 sq. ft., the window comes with impact- or non-impact glass, with or without a bottom sill, in a range of standard frame colors.

WINDOORINC.COM (800) 282-6019

TRIM AND FIT

Nichiha USA has introduced the first in-house twopiece metal trim system, perfectly color matched to the broadest range of fiber cement textures and colors for a seamless, flawless finish with single-source fulfillment.

The simplified, snap-fit installation design eliminates the need for skilled detailing and ensures perfect alignment—no caulk, no gaps, no visible fasteners—all done in a snap.

It employs a unique termination cap to ensure clean lines while sealing the edges against water and weather damage. Gaps or channels in the trim design will absorb any small shifts in the siding, cladding, or trim, maintaining the desired aesthetic.

NICHIHA.COM (866) 424-4421

StratosTM

Composite Enhanced PVC

Dive in and experience the next level in outdoor living. MoistureShield Stratos is the only deck board that fuses the impenetrable protection and beauty of PVC with the rigid strength of composite. It’s the newest way we’re pushing the limits of what’s possible in outdoor living.

Why settle for less?

HIGH-VALUE FASTENER

PrimeSource Building Products launches the first widely available 4-1/2" collated fastener specifically for use with high R-value insulated exterior sheathing. Grip-Rite SpeedSpike is ideal for use in residential and commercial applications where high R-value sheathing is required by code or desired by the builder. It reportedly installs over five times faster than hand-driven solutions, embeds deeper—driving a full 2" into the stud, and features a ring-shank design to ensure a secure grip in wood studs.

PRIMESOURCEBP.COM (800) 676-7777

SUPER SHOP VAC

Milwaukee’s new cordless M18 Fuel Nexus Modular Vacuum System delivering groundbreaking advancements for the jobsite clean-up.

The system also features VacLink wireless dust control for enhanced productivity and seamless remote activation, along with PackOut modular storage compatibility capable of carrying 130 kg for maximum versatility and mobility around the job site.

With two M18 Forge 12.0 Ah battery packs, it can clean-up to 545 square meters on a single charge with up to 49 minutes of continuous cleaning on max run time mode.

MILWAUKEETOOL.COM (800) 729-3878

MODIFIED WOOD CLADDING

Royal Plywood has launched its own cladding line— Resilience Wood Cladding—designed to deliver timeless aesthetics with unmatched endurance in every climate. Resilience is a complete system that brings together Accoya modified wood, Renner Italia Hydro-Oils finish, and California Custom Milling, Royal’s in-house mill. From smooth to wire-brushed, resawn to combed finishes, every detail can be carefully crafted to achieve your design vision. The product offers WUI compliance, rot resistant, dimensionally stability, and protection against the elements.

It is available in a curated range of colors inspired by nature, from the soft tones of Desert Sage and Coastal Fog to the bold depth of Black Ice and Patagonia.

ROYALPLYWOOD.COM

(562) 404-2989

FLASH IN A FLASH

TYPAR has introduced a new double-sided, self-sealing flashing tape engineered to deliver superior durability, flexibility and ease of installation.

FlangeFlash is designed for flashing non-flanged doors and windows, forming a permanent mechanical bond between the window or door frame and the exterior wall. It simplifies this critical detail and provides a verifiable air and water barrier. The tape combines the strength of TYPAR Commercial building wrap with a high-performance all-temperature adhesive.

It features an easy-release liner to speed up installation and clear adhesive to eliminate messy residue.

TYPAR.COM

(800) 541-5519

Hi-bor® brand treated wood is a borate treated wood product designed for interior house framing in Hawaii. Hi-bor treated wood resists attack by Formosan and subterranean termites and numerous household insects and pests, as well as fungal decay. Hi-bor borate treated wood is also backed by a 20 year limited warranty*.

FirePro® brand re retardant treated wood is treated with a patented formulation that contains no phosphates and has been shown to exhibit exceptional re performance properties without compromising other critical engineering properties such as strength, durability, corrosivity, and hygroscopicity. FirePro treated wood is also backed by a 50 year limited warranty*.

Advance Guard® borate pressure treated lumber is recommended for sill plate, furring strips, joists, studs, roof trusses, blocking, rafters, beams, and other framing applications. Advance Guard is also recommended for fascia, trim, wall sheathing, roof sheathing, and sub- oors. Advance Guard borate pressure treated lumber is also backed by a lifetime limited warranty*.

NHLA HARDWOOD SHOWCASE

CONVENTIONEERS [

]

GLOBAL TRADE was the talk of the town during the National Hardwood Lumber Association's annual convention & exhibit showcase Oct. 1-3 in San Antonio, Tx. The gathering united hardwood professionals from across North America to share insights, build connections, and explore the trends shaping the marketplace. After remarks by executive director Dallin Brooks, Bucky Pescaglia addressed the key issue of log exports, setting the stage for an engaging discussion on the challenges and opportunities of the global hardwood trade.

Throughout the convention, attendees engaged with leaders and peers through a mix of networking events, educational sessions, and exhibits. The keynote speaker, economist Taylor St. Germain, offered an encouraging outlook, expressing optimism about the coming years and highlighting factors expected to drive stability and growth. Mike Snow, American Hardwood Export Council, provided an important update on the European Union Deforestation Regulation and offered a comprehensive overview of hardwood export trends. MM

suppliers (continued from previous page): [11] April

]

LMC LEADERSHIP SUMMIT TAKES BUSINESS BEYOND ORDINARY

LMC MEMBERS gathered in Denver, Co., for the 2025 LMC Leadership Summit, where they spent three days embracing innovation through immersive education, practical tools, fresh perspectives, and lasting connections.

“The Leadership Summit is where vision meets action,” said Paul Thorne, VP of stockholder relations at LMC. “We explore what it means to build ‘Business Beyond Ordinary’ through bold ideas, authentic leadership, and a culture that turns values into impact.”

The Leadership Summit guided leaders through a “learning journey” which began with a pivotal element impacting all sectors of the LBM industry: technology. Tim Costello, co-founder of Built for the Future, showed dealers how technology will transform construction over the next decade. His presentation covered emerging technologies already entering the LBM industry and what LMC dealers need to know to stay competitive.

An exciting departure from the classroom took attendees to Sashco’s Denver headquarters, where Jeff and Nick Burch led a tour of the manufacturing plant and R&D lab. Nathan Ferraro then guided a hands-on Caulking 101 workshop, demonstrating Sashco’s focus on practical training.

Attendees toured Cerebral Brewing to tap into Denver’s craft-beer culture and gain fresh business perspectives. Co-founder and CEO Dan McGuire shared how he grew his business into a purpose-driven brand.

Education continued with Brain McCauley’s session Sales Beyond Ordinary. Dealers gained practical sales strategies and insights focusing on core sales fundamentals. Attendees learned actionable techniques for territory management, improved sales call execution, and value-based messaging that drives results.

Dealers learned how to apply startup strategies to their existing businesses during Joel Phillips’ session. The

Y Combinator founder shared practical methods for identifying growth opportunities and solving problems using entrepreneurial thinking. Attendees participated in Q&A discussions on funding and innovation while pitching their own ideas. Dealers left with tools to drive innovation and find new revenue streams in their operations.

Armed with valuable insights and expansive knowledge, the LMC network toured Empower Field, the home of the Denver Broncos. The behind-the-scenes tour was a perfect opportunity to unwind and connect with each other. Led by GM of Empower Field, Jay Roberts, dealers gained valuable business insights into stadium operations, event logistics, and managing world-class facilities—practical lessons that they could apply to their own businesses.

The day concluded with a celebratory tailgate party, wrapping up the LMC Leadership Summit on a high note.

Virginia Lewes of Tart Lumber, Sterling, Va., noted, “I have been attending for a number of years, and this is my favorite LMC event, especially because it offers so many opportunities for younger individuals in the industry to network, gain new ideas, make friends, and be inspired to drive change. It’s a chance to help bring industry into the 21st century. This is such a valuable opportunity for company leaders, for anyone you’re considering grooming for leadership, and for those who have shown leadership potential. It’s a place to gather ideas, gain fresh perspectives, and get invested.”

The Leadership Summit demonstrated LMC’s strategic investment in developing the next generation of LBM industry leaders. Attendees gained firsthand experience with leadership development resources and professional networking opportunities. The event reinforced LMC’s commitment to equipping future leaders with tools to thrive in an evolving marketplace. MM

Re Reddwwood i ood is

thrives in some of the most productive timberlands in the world. Redwood is known for its timeless durability without the use of chemicals. Due to its flawless formation, there has never been a Redwood recall. There is a grade of Redwood for every application, every budget, and every customer.

“Growing beyond measure.”

Call or visit us today. Our family of Redwood timberland owners will continue to be your reputable and reliable source of Redwood.

SIERRA PACIFIC ANNUAL OPEN HOUSE

SPI OPEN HOUSE (continued from previous page) guests were greeted by [ 13 ] Red Emmerson and Mark Emmerson. [ 14 ] Scott & Jeannie MacKechnie, Tomas Salazar. [15] Brian, Hayden & Lee Hamre. [16] Aaron Sulzer, Collin Emmerson. [17] Ken Caylor, Chris Richter. [18] Carlos Gutierrez, Bethany Cummings, Mark Berger. [ 19 ] Andy Faircloth, Karim Bedram, Matt Endriss. [20] Brian Johnson, Kevin Bruce, Kelly Brown. [21] Tony Geiger, Brandon Crosier, Ryan Pearson, James Morston, Stewart Lyons. [ 22 ] Bob Long, Vaughn Emmerson, Kelley Layton. [ 23 ] Ron Hanson, Mark Swinth, Terry Rasmussen, Angie Dundas. [24] Joe Riner, Rex Klopfer, Dan Delany, Greg Hexberg. [25 ] Larry Ostmar, Jeff Fantozzi. [ 26 ] Ben Rist, Sarah & Nick Cianciolo.

2025 GREGSON TOURNAMENT

Listings are often submitted months in advance. Always verify dates and locations with sponsor before making plans to attend.

Greenbuild – Nov. 4-7, international conference, Los Angeles Convention Center, Los Angeles, Ca.; www.greenbuildexpo.com.

Mountain States Lumber & Building Material Dealers Association –Nov. 4, introduction to building material sales; Nov. 5-6, estimating workshop, Thornton, Co.; Nov. 7, annual Brewfest, Mile High Station, Denver, Co.; www.mslbmda.org.

National Hardwood Lumber Association – Nov. 5-7, hardwood processing 101, Memphis, Tn.; www.nhla.com.

North American Wholesale Lumber Association – Nov. 5-7, NAWLA Traders Market, Kansas City Convention Center, Kansas City, Mo.; www.nawla.org.

Los Angeles Hardwood Lumberman’s Club – Nov. 7, golf tournament, Black Gold Golf Club, Yorba Linda, Ca.; www.lahlc.net.

West Coast Lumber & Building Material Association – Nov. 7, Northern California clay shoot, Birds Landing Hunting Preserve, Birds Landing, Ca.; www.lumberassociation.org.

Fresno Fall Home Improvement Show & Tiny Home Expo – Nov. 7-9, Fresno, Ca.; www.fresnoshows.com.

Western Building Material Association – Nov. 11-12, annual conference, DoubleTree, Seattle, Wa.; www.wbma.org.

Hardlines Distribution Alliance – Nov. 18-20, executive planning conference, Ponte Vedra Beach, Fl.; www.hdaworks.com.

Black Bart Hoo-Hoo Club – Nov. 19, initiation/membership meeting, Santa Rosa, Ca.; www.hoohoo181.org.

Portland Wholesale Lumber Association Dec. 5, Christmas luncheon, Portland, Or.; www.portlandwholesalelumberassociation.org.

Los Angeles Hardwood Lumberman’s Club – Dec. 6, Christmas party, Seasons 52, Costa Mesa, Ca.; www.lahlc.net.

Build Expo – Dec. 9-10, Phoenix Convention Center, Phoenix, Az.; www. buildexpousa.com.

Southern California Hoo-Hoo Club – Dec. 11, holiday meeting/golf, Serranos Country Club, Chino, Ca.; www.hoohoo117.org.

West Coast Lumber & Building Material Association – Dec. 11, 2nd Growth holiday meeting, Hot Rods & Handguns Shooting & Social Club, Huntington Beach, Ca.; www.lumberassociation.org.

North American Deck & Railing Association – Jan. 7-9, summit & awards gala, Clearwater Beach, Fl.; www.nadra.org.

Council on Forest Engineering – Jan. 8, western region seminar, Lebanon, Or.; www.cofe.org.

Colorado Springs Home Building & Remodeling Show – Jan. 9-11, Norris-Penrose Event Center, Colorado Springs, Co.; www. homeshowcenter.com.

Associated California Loggers – Jan. 14-16, annual meeting, Peppermill Resort Spa Casino, Reno, Nv.; www.californialoggers.com.

Oregon State University – Jan. 15-16, cut-to-length seminar, Corvallis, Or.; www.westernforestry.org.

Sacramento Hoo-Hoo Club – Jan. 20, concat meeting, Sacramento, Ca.; www.hoohoo109.org.

International Roofing Expo – Jan. 20-22, Las Vegas Convention Center, Las Vegas, Nv.; www.theroofingexpo.com.

American Wood Protection Association – Jan. 21, winter executive committee meeting, Bartow, Fl.; www.awpa.com.

Black Bart Hoo-Hoo Club – Jan. 21, Industry Night, Broiler Steakhouse, Redwood Valley, Ca.; www.hoo-hoo.org.

Humboldt Hoo-Hoo Club – Jan. 22, crab feed, Elks Lodge, Eureka, Ca.; www.hoo-hoo.org.

Rates: $1.20 per word (25 word minimum). Phone number counts as 1 word, address as 6. Centered copy/headline, $9 per line. Border, $9. Column inch rate: $65 per inch. Deadline: 10th of the previous month. Questions? Call (714) 486-2735 or email DKoenig@526mediagroup.com.

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CONRAD FOREST PRODUCTS (CFP) is seeking experienced salespersons located in the Pacific Northwest. CFP is a major producer of Pressure Treated Lumber products with 3 treating plants on the West Coast. We have 2 openings for experienced salespeople with a background in the PNW. Those with treated lumber experience will be given priority attention but those with general lumber and building materials sales, direct and through distribution, will be considered. If you have experience in this area and products, please forward your resume to david@building-products.com.

David William “Bill” Hunsinger, former owner of Limback Lumber Co., Seattle, Wa., passed away on Sept. 28 at the age of 96.

In 1949, Bill went to work for his father-in-law, Tony Limback, founder of Limback Lumber. Bill became owner when Tony retired. He later passed the business to his sons, Bill and Paul.

Gary Leonard Mackie, 79, retired Portland, Or., lumberman, died on Oct. 3 due to complications from congestive heart failure.

Gary was a graduate of Oregon State University with a bachelor’s degree in marketing and a minor in forest products. He worked for Pope & Talbot, Wood Markets, United Alpine, Concannon Lumber, and Northwest Coatings.

A GROWING TRADITION FOR ALL

with great people, live life with a code of ethics, and have a desire to give back to your community, Hoo-Hoo is for you! We invite you to learn more about Hoo-Hoo International and your local chapter, how you can become a member. Who

WELL ESTABLISHED MANUFACTURING, processing, direct sales, and distribution company, located in the Pacific Northwest is seeking experienced traders with at least 5 years of successful sales. If you have a background in back-to-back and or mill-direct sales with Western species, we are interested in talking to you. Positions are available now, you can work remote and our employees are aware of this ad. Please forward your resume to david@ building-products.com.

James Phillip Groschupf, longtime salesman with Plum Creek Timber Co., Kalispell, Mt., passed away at the age of 94.

A Bemidji State University graduate and corporal in the U.S. States Army, Jim spent 34 years with Plum Creek before retiring in 1986. He was a past president of the Northwest Montana Hoo-Hoo Club.

Vikki L. Heimsoth, longtime employee of Capital Lumber, Cheyenne, Wy., passed away on Oct. 2, two days shy of her 80th birthday.

In 1965, her father, Ivan, purchased the lumberyard that became Capital Lumber. Vikki dedicated herself to the family business, working alongside her father and siblings for three decades.

Its programs offer members information about worthwhile matters both in and out of the industry. Together with other professionals, you have an opportunity to grow and learn. Hoo-Hoo

At Royal Paci c you’ll pay no more, but get extra. We guarantee it.