BIG WEEK!

We’ve got a special edition of the From the Fabricator podcast for you out now.  Kicking it off with the outgoing Chair of the NGA, Brian Hale of Hale Glass.  Fun and wide-ranging conversation with a guy who has had an amazing 45+ year run in the business.  Then onto a newer guy in our space, Merv Campbell of Omni Cubed.  Merv took a wild path from Northern Ireland to Northern California and now is doing important things with carts and apparatus to move glass safely and efficiently.  Plus he’s got a great accent- that’s worth the listen alone!  LOL.  Last the best beards in our industry are back with Brandon Bellegarde and Tyler Faulk of Drafting Marketplace stopping by with an update on the newest addition to their offerings- engineering assistance.  Good stuff all the way around.  I really enjoy getting to know these folks and I hope you all do as well. Thanks for checking it out and look for all of these people at GlassBuild and tell them you listened/watched!

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AUDIO (Search for From the Fabricator on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you listen to pods)

 

Elsewhere…

 

--  It is indeed GLASSBUILD WEEK!  So pumped.  So much going on and I know this week will be a blur.  Looking forward to learning, catching up with old friends and making new ones, and prepping for 2024.  As for the show floor, I need to see James Wright and the gang at Virginia Glass as they celebrate 110 years in business with cake and drinks (Cake? That could be the sugar burst needed to finish the show day strong!) Oh and rumor has it James celebrates his birthday on Wednesday during the show, so you gotta stop for that too!  Plus I have to see what the big boys like Guardian Glass, Vitro, and YKK have going on.  I always have to see what new trail Michael Spellman and team at IGE at blazing (including the breaking news about IGE with KERAjet and Diptech), and look forward to catching up with many past podcast guests in their booths like Trent Thiry, Chris Hanstad, Barry Sutherland, Mike Synon, Mike Willard, Jeff Dalaba, Ben Beeler, and Kyle Lindersmith.  Also excited to see the new products that Kevin Roth and Privacy Glass Solutions are putting out as well as seeing what’s up Joe Silva and Mike DeBotte’s sleeves at SmartLift.  So much to see.  So many people to see.  So much to learn.  Can’t wait!  Of course next week my blog will be dedicated the who, what, when, and where at the show. 

 

--  Congrats to the great team at W&W for being named ENR New York Specialty Contractor of the Year.  An absolutely well-deserved honor and one that brings positive recognition to our industry as a whole.  So kudos to everyone at W&W on this and on continuing to do such amazing work out there. 

 

--  Sad news this week with the passing of Steve Howes.  Steve was the founder of Glasslam and he was a maverick and truly original and unique guy.  He developed many products over the years and was best known for his approach in the impact safety glass space.  Big loss for our world and condolences and prayers go out to his family, friends, and team at Glasslam.  

 

--  Last this week… my pal Josh Wignall of Quaker Window sent me this cool link with the news that Vikings during the time of 800 to 1100 had windows!  Glass was recovered.  Cool little read here.  So that means in like year 823 some Viking Glass Nerd was looking intently at the glass to see who made it…. 

 

LINKS of the WEEK

Holding on for dear life?  Wow

 

Seriously would anyone watch a fight between Seagal and Van Damme?  

 

Spiders- I hate em.

 

PROJECT of the WEEK

From Chris Hill of Oak Cliff Mirror and Glass and this one looks great.  It is the District 121 office building located in McKinney, Texas and according to the post on LinkedIn, Chris gave kudos to US Aluminum, Guardian Glass, and Tristar Glass.  NICE work everyone!!  Next year with GlassBuild in Texas we’ll all have to get a tour of the great work in the state! 

ABI, HOF, CGA and More

Tough week both professionally and personally, but resilience is always the word around here so we plug on. First on the professional side. The Architectural Billings Index absolutely cratered, coming in with a brutal score of 44.8. That is the worst score since the teeth of the pandemic, and I think it was one of those scenarios of flying too close to the sun for a while and we finally got burned.  We expected down scores for a while, and it never happened so I think the dam just broke.  The analysts now say this starts a new cycle. The last 12 months this index was pretty sideways.  (Basically flat) so where does the index go now?  Does it follow previous patterns in the down times like the “dot com” or recession or will it be like the Covid one where the comeback was quicker.  Only time will tell.  There was some good news though in that backlogs are holding up for the architects and new inquiries were still coming in well above break even.  And hopefully with the Fed cooling on raising rates again maybe we’ll stabilize?  Now more than ever I cannot wait to see what Connor Lokar of ITR says at GlassBuild. He will surely give us the insights needed! 

 

Elsewhere…

 

--  One of the things going on during the GlassBuild timing is the Debut of the Glass Industry Hall of Fame that was spearheaded and executed by Matt Day and team.  It has turned into an excellent process, and it’s been exciting to see it all come together.  Our industry finally has that place to honor those that made a difference in our evolution and day to day activity.  So kudos to Matt and team for pulling this through. It’s been a ton and Matt has done it up right.  In addition, the annual Glazier Nation awards will be handed out during the event.  I am still humbled to among the winners because this list of people is truly top notch.  So besides a great GlassBuild to take in, you have the added flavor of these incredible events! 

 

Also Matt and team have a documentary in the works- Check out the first 3 minutes HERE.  It is awesome. If you love glass (and if you are reading this you probably do) you’ll love where this is headed.

 

--  If you listened to my podcast with the ultra cool Amber Deimler of MyGlassTruck you may have heard her hinting at something fun for her booth at GlassBuild.  Well that hint is now a reality as MyGlassTruck announced they’ll have a very cool electric glass delivery tricycle on display.  It is the first of its kind and features a sleek MyGlassTruck glass rack and a range of up to 30 miles.  And best yet you can win it!  They have more on this awesome promotion HERE, check it out and then make sure you see it at the show!

 

--  Congrats to all the folks who worked so hard to get the California Glass Association re-born and off the ground as this past week the news came out that they are an official chapter of the NGA!  Tremendous news!  So kudos to the three fine folks I had on my podcast a few months ago to talk about the journey- Kristie Rehberger, Adam Posik, and Nathan Seeman and to my pal Dan Pompeo who had been banging the drum for this for a long time.  This is great news for the industry and all involved!

 

--  The list of the top 175 Architectural firms for the year is out and really nothing jumped out as a surprise.  Many of the same names lead the way but I always find it interesting looking at this list and of course looking at the revenue numbers.  Those numbers are also interesting because according to the last AIA Forecast call I was on, the bigger the firms billings, the longer the backlogs they have.  So the bigger companies are in better long term shape right now vs. smaller.

 

 

--  Missed this one… in early September it was reported HERE that New York’s Local Law 97 may not have the full teeth when it is due to go into effect next year.  It’s an interesting read on what may happen with this important legislation- one that I believe is a very positive one for our industry.  The key takeaway is the possibility that there could be a two-year grace period if there’s a “good faith” effort to meet the law.  We’ll see.  There’s another hearing on this in November which I assume will clarify it all and it surely will be interesting to see what happens.  And speaking of NYC- this nugget was good to see and helps ease the queasiness that I note above:

Construction spending on projects across New York City will reach $83 billion by the end of 2023, a gain of about $13 billion from last year and a 10% jump from pre-pandemic levels, according to a recent report from the New York Building Congress.

 

--  Last this week… some of you may have heard that my father-in-law Peter Meldrum Sr. passed away this past Tuesday. While he never worked in our industry, he was a huge fan of what we did and always had an insatiable interest in what was new and happening in our world. (Always got a kick out of me looking for tempered logos and for names on IG spacers)  He was obviously a huge part of my life and support system and a massive positive influence.   Plus when I was traveling like a mad man, he was always there to help with my wife and kids.  Never ever said no and loved every minute of it.  He was an amazing man who after he retired from 35 year's at Chrysler went back to school, got two advanced degrees, and then taught and in his spare time and volunteered at hospitals and medical facilities counseling those in need.  This week was tough and I will miss him dearly.  Thank you to all who have already connected with me on this, I and my entire family truly appreciated your prayers and support. 

 

LINKS of the WEEK

United trying some new boarding techniques- but this one is fraught with problems too.

 

I’d call this a happy accident.  Getting to go to Disney better than most alternatives

 

I’m very familiar with this area and this story does not surprise

 

PROJECT of the WEEK

Over the years I have seen posts from Sunrise Erectors and thought for sure I had spotlighted them here- but upon checking I had not.  Wow.  They’ve done beautiful work.  So here’s one…

This is Gillette Stadium; home of the New England Patriots and this great looking Curtain Wall may be the only good thing that’s happening with the team this year (Ouch sorry Pats fans!)  Anyway great work Sunrise team and kudos to Viracon and EFCO on the Glass and Metal.  Good stuff!   (Note this job is probably done now so if anyone has the completed picture feel free to post in the LinkedIn comments)

All About the Prep

Obviously everything in the industry right now is GlassBuild focused so of course the latest Glass Magazine leads with it and goes in heavy on the event.  If you are attending, being prepared by checking out that issue now will really help you get ready for the show.  If you are not attending, you can at least learn a bit of what the latest and greatest of what will be happening in Atlanta in a few weeks.  The editorial team at Glass Magazine did a great job in breaking down the event, it really got me fired up. Not GlassBuild related, so make sure you catch an awesome piece from Katy Devlin on the “underground history of glass”- very cool. Also the issue had some tremendous “food for thought” articles from regular contributors Matt Johnson of Paul Gary Law and Joe Erb of Quanex.  So check this one out and get up to speed on all!

 

As always I award the Ad of the Month from each issue and given this is a massive edition and one of the most read, the advertisers come out strong.  So a tough choice for me, but each month I do it and I’m up to the task.  The winner for this month is Trust Seal.  Really sharp way of showing their product both in place and then zoomed in.  The color and layout were really strong and it passes the “make you stop and look” rule that I have.  So whomever at Trust Seal did this one- congrats!  Job well done!

 

Elsewhere…

 

One more item on the GlassBuild front… if you are coming and have NOT registered yet, please do yourself a favor and do it ahead of time (like now for example).  Lines in Vegas last year extended out because of so many walk-ups and I would assume that could happen again this year.  So save time and get it done now.

 

The lates Dodge Momentum Index is out and it was a mixed bag.  The overall ticked up, but the segment we all care about was actually down 1%. Year over year, the commercial segment is down quite a bit and so that is continuing concern.  So while the headlines are positive and overall bounced back, we still have those challenges ahead. 

 

Has anyone seen the Planet Fitness commercials touting  “Low E” – they obviously are playing the Low Energy card for working out, but every time I see it, I’m thinking about our Low E glass options.  I really need to get away from the industry for bit don’t I?  LOL.

 

Last this week… the best small cities in the US was released. These are cities with between 25,000 and 100,000 residents.  Interesting list for sure… and here goes.. from 10 to 1.

 

10- Brookfield, WI- Been there- really nice area. 

9- Saratoga Springs, NY- No clue here but I do love Saratoga Springs at Disney

8- Melrose, MA – I am sure a legend like Brian Shaw of OBE knows this one

7- Milton, MA- If you are someone who knows Barstool Sports history- you know Milton

6- Fair Lawn, NJ- I’m so sheltered- didn’t realize there were any small towns in Jersey

5- Fishers, IN

4- Westfield, IN- The Hoosier state has come in strong

3- Brentwood, TN- The Nashville halo? 

2- Lexington, MA- ok is there a New England bias to this list?

And 1- Carmel, IN – have heard a ton good on that spot- guess I’ll need to visit some day

 

So looks like Indiana and Massachusetts feature some of the best small towns around.  I am stunned nothing in the Carolinas made the top 10 and I assume everything in Texas is too big to make it?   Anyway always interesting stuff

 

LINKS of the WEEK

Interesting story on predictive policing and how it works… or doesn’t.  

https://gizmodo.com/predictive-policing-cops-law-enforcement-predpol-1850893951

 

I truly don’t understand the lack of logic here

https://www.engadget.com/the-epa-wont-force-water-utilities-to-inspect-their-cyber-defenses-232301497.html

 

More frustration- the car dealer adventure

https://jalopnik.com/ftc-rule-would-make-a-special-exception-so-car-dealers-1850921959

 

PROJECT of the WEEK

Slightly different one for me this week.  Dustin Price of Texas Glazing Solutions (and also all around good guy and one ½ of the awesome team he forms with wife Lindsay there) posted this one that is a great looking project for sure.  It features black painted curtainwall corner closers, bone white break metal strips, and Dark Bronze break metal.  It is a great look.  Glazier was Western Glass LLC and Southern Aluminum Finishing (SAF) was the manufacturer.  Project is in Round Rock, Texas and is something to show off!  Congrats to Dustin and everyone involved in this beauty!! 

Hear the Trends and then More

I get asked a ton on “trends” and what I see coming down the path, so I am pretty stoked that I’ll soon have the ability to moderate a panel all about trends and what is next!  At GlassBuild on day 1- the very first session on the Main Stage at 10:30AM will be focused on trends and happenings to watch in our space.  The panel is absolutely rock solid awesome.  It consists of Alan Kinder of Guardian Glass, who if you’ve never heard or met is brilliant and in-depth.  I always learn from him.  Shelly Farmer of Sightline Commercial Solutions is the best sales/biz dev person I have ever worked with and always has a laser focus on the market.  Ron Crowl of Cincly, is the godfather of the entire software space and knows seemingly every movement happening in every nook and cranny of our world, and someone new for me that I have heard a ton of positive things about in Bruce Wesner of PGT.  PGT is one of the best around, so I am confident Bruce will be delivering the goods.  So please add this to your schedule for GlassBuild.  Get in the doors, say hi, then work your way to the Main Stage for this session.  I am so looking forward to sharing the stage with this awesome crew!

 

If you haven’t checked the schedule yet of sessions- do so HERE.  A strong mix of business and personal level insight and info available over the three days of the show. 

 

Elsewhere… 

 

-- In case you missed it, the latest From the Fabricator podcast is out and people are talking about it! (Thank you!)  The main themes have been, the advancements that Chris Hanstad, Barry Sutherland and the entire FHC crew have made in a short time and the excitement of more expansion.  And pretty much everything Amber Deimler from MyGlassTruck talked about- but led by the appreciation how the team there goes to work and communicates with their customers.  That was a theme overall in most of my feedback- people really like working with these companies because they communicate with their base effectively.  Love it. This was just a small part of the talks- check it all out. Thank you!!

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AUDIO (also on Apple, Spotify, Google and more) 

 

--  Sad news from our world this past week with the passing of Frank Iaquinto.  Frank was a major player at AFG for many years and has had a lasting effect on our industry.  To me Frank was a classic character- told it to me like it was, but always had our best interests in mind and took care of our needs. (we were a customer of his early in my career).  Frank’s impact is still felt clearly today with quite a few of his proteges are out there making serious waves (the great Gus Trupiano among them) and with the company his sons own in Michigan- Midwest Glass Fab. My sincerest condolences to Frank’s family and friends.  A very good man that truly will be missed.

 

--  It's a common wonder out there, especially in the traditional glass industry on where all the solar panels are going.  Thanks to a few of you for thinking of me and sending me items that show solar panels in various uses.  This one linked HERE is a pretty interesting use but not sure it’s the healthiest around.  The more popular use of panels and the one that WILL affect our space capacity wise are the massive solar fields that are being built to replace energy sources that are transitioning out.  These are happening at a rapid pace all over and will need a lot of glass and that glass comes from the same supply that we work from.  So just to keep an eye out on it.  Things aren’t tight now but forecasts focused on solar growth mean that it will be down the line for us. 

 

--  Last this week… saw the movie “Dumb Money” and it was really well done and entertaining.  Also a bit infuriating/frustrating too.  The movie is about the run on the stock “Game Stop” that happened a couple of years ago and took a dead in the water stock to insane heights… and all done by the regular buyer- the retail buyer- also known as the “dumb money” buyer.  Obviously it got the Hollywood treatment but the moral of the story was there and for those that play or follow the stock market, it adds to the mystifying nature of how it all works there.  Check it out though as it was a well-done flick/story telling.

 

LINKS of the WEEK

An alcohol-free pub- I’d assume there’s more than this out there but I guess depends on liquor license?

 

I’m good with dogs.  This run of exotic pets never ends well- like the escaped rare monkey in Indy.

 

I know retro is in- but this one makes no sense on how it can make it in the times of Amazon and other online shopping.

 

PROJECT of the WEEK

The state of North Carolina keeps putting up beautiful buildings!  This week the spotlight is on Tom Peruc and Charlotte Glass.  Saw this one on his feed and it’s tremendous.  This is the 400 Hillsboro job that Tom and his team Charlotte Glass glazed.  Nice rundown of collaborators on it too with folks like Gensler, YKK, Guardian, and Press Glass involved.  Congrats to all on a winning effort for sure!! 

 

 

 

New Pod- Catch Up and Grow

The newest episode of the From the Fabricator Podcast is now out and we go to coast to coast with great guests yet again. I am so fortunate to be able to talk to this sort of talent!   Kicking it off by catching up with Chris Hanstad and Barry Sutherland of FHC- Frameless Hardware Company.  They were on my 2^nd ever episode way back in February of 2021 and needless to say a lot has changed.  Great to get the updates (including a massive expansion) and those guys and the entire FHC team is rocking right now.  Then on to Amber Deimler of MyGlassTruck for a conversation that was very enlightening on a lot of angles including culture, R&D, new products, EV and much more.  Plus the MyGlassTruck booth at GlassBuild will have a different look and a lot of cool things to see/experience.  Truly enjoyed both interviews! Please give it a listen or watch!

 

Thanks for checking my podcasts- I appreciate the support as always!!

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AUDIO (also on Apple, Spotify, Google and more) 

 

Elsewhere…

 

--  OK folks.  Let’s get real here for a moment.  We are month out from GlassBuild.  Time to make sure you are registered and have your hotel room.  I have been checking with some of my friends in the industry and more than a few came back with “oh yes, gotta take care of that” sort of answer.  Do it now. Get it set before you forget or before the hotel you want is booked.  GlassBuild.com for it all.  And as for the show- 475+ exhibits now… and so much cool educational content I can’t wait! Next week I’m going to talk about a couple of those sessions that can’t be missed….

 

--  In my last post I noted the new Architectural Billings Index would be released and I predicted it would be down and that actually happened.  The index limped in with a 48.1 score (50 is the break-even mark) so we’re underwater officially and it feels like we may be there for a bit.  Experts are calling it a “modest softening” and that is what it is for now, but the focus is what will the continuing trend be.  Design inquiries stayed above water nicely even ticking up a bit from last month, but the interest rate issue is real, and we continue to have to be focused on a tougher market ahead.  

 

--  More food for thought?  The Jones Lang Lasalle (JLL) mid-year update had a lot of data points to absorb as well. It too is showing some slower conditions among other items.  Lots to take in overall.  Check out some of the more pertinent details HERE.

 

--  Before you know it the next edition of GPAD (Glass Processing and Automation Days) will be here (March, Nashville) and one of the stars of the last event just got some good news.  Kyle Lindersmith of Burkle North America was named Vice President of the 3P Division there.  Very cool for Kyle and nice move by Burkle.  Now the pressure will be on Kyle to repeat his incredible performance at the next GPAD!  Congrats!

 

--  Last this week… Sad news.  Two big losses of major pillars of the past in our industry with the passing of Donn Harter and Rich Walker. Donn Harter was a hugely important figure out west, started the original California Glass Association and was instrumental in so many codes and actions in our space.  Truly impactful in many ways.  Rich Walker was the past President of AAMA (forerunner to what is now FGIA) and was a major part in raising the educational options in our industry and representing the Fenestration world at the highest levels.  AAMA grew by leaps and bounds under Rich as well which was a challenge given some of the economics during his tenure.  Both men were great leaders and will be missed.  My thoughts and condolences to the family and friends of both gentlemen. 

 

LINKS of the WEEK

Look out – a Gator or worse can use your Doggie Door!

 

Who knew we had Flamingos in my neck of the woods?

 

This emotional support animal that is just so wrong and ridiculous.

 

PROJECT of the WEEK

I can’t wait to see this one when it is finished!  This is 1000 SOCIAL (Raleigh, NC)  and I saw it on the great feed from Building Envelope Erections Services, INC- aka BEES.  Great looking building and the glazing is looking sharp.  Some high-powered partners were mentioned on the post including Kawneer, Viracon, and W&W Glass.  Great work everyone!! 

Review, Awards, Indexes and More

Kicking it off this week a review of the latest Glass Magazine. Really strong edition led by the ultra-prestigious Glass Magazine Awards.  Congrats to all the winners there and note at GlassBuild they’ll honored in person. VERY COOL!  Elsewhere in this issue there were good articles on innovation by Jim Nixon of Quanex and a cool deep dive into printing on glass by Adam Mitchell of AGNORA. Plus the technical resource on mirrors is a must if you are in that business.  Good stuff all around and kudos to all involved!

 

As always, I do my “ad of the month” and because this issue featured the Awards and is heavily read, it attracted a lot of advertisers and that makes my job of picking a winner that much harder.  But I do what I have to do!  So this month the winner is Lattuada North America. I am partial to the use of the color green so that helped… but seriously I loved the mix of creative and standard with the pictures of the machinery and the overall color scheme popped.  Good text to image ratio too… so congrats to the team there for a job well done!

 

Elsewhere….

 

--  I am really getting excited for GlassBuild and I think I’m not alone.  I am seeing more action online about it (and not just from the NGA team but exhibitors are really stepping up) and hearing about more meetings and gatherings on-site.  Plus my legendary brother is planning on attending, so that alone makes me think we’re getting a heck of a crowd.  Can’t wait.  If you haven’t registered yet, do so now.  Also do the hotel immediately as well as I am told they are filling fast.  All can be done at GlassBuild.com 

 

--  Not a great recent Dodge Momentum Index.  That softer market that I have mentioned here a few times is starting to spread and now showing up in reports like this one.  The bright side is the areas that pulled the index lower- schools and healthcare- are not expected to be downer segments going forward so this could be more on the fluke side than we think.  Still we know that we were in for some challenges and they are here.  Next up, the Architectural Billings Index this Wednesday.  Last month dead flat… I’ll be absolutely stunned if it’s a plus score.  We’ll see and report back on my next post. 

 

--  So the next version of the Apple iPhone was announced and the biggest thing to me is the change from a “Lightning” connector to a USB-C.  I’m pretty bummed on the change as I have tons of the current connectors and have backups everywhere etc.  Plus I am old fashioned (and old) so I like wired headphones for hands free talking and now that becomes a change too.  But I know everything evolves and now the whole world will be on the same charging platform so in the long run this probably will be good.  Just sucks for now... at least in my opinion/life.

 

--  Nice to see another past podcast guest get some positive pub!  This being the very talented and cool Asta Fivgas of Reflection Window and Wall.  She’s now Director of Preconstruction there and I am sure that rocket ship will continue to fly.  Congrats Asta and Reflection on the move and if you missed my talk with Asta- you can catch it either HERE on video or via Apple, Spotify etc by searching “From the Fabricator” and look for the May 2023 edition. 

 

--  One of the overall “best” people in our industry is Kyle Sword of NSG Pilkington.  Just a class act all the way around, all the time.  And with that in mind it should not surprise you that he just completed a very unique experience for charity.  Kyle was a part of a team that rappelled down the 16 story Libbey Building in Toledo.  It was done as an event that raised money for the Victory Center, non profit Cancer Wellness Center.  Kyle and company raised more than 4k from individual donors and a stunner 200K overall.  Absolutely awesome.  Now rumors are that Kyle did it all without safety clips, going one handed on just a single rope popping quickly down the building like Spiderman. Incredible!  Way to go Kyle and everyone else that was involved in this super event!

 

--  Last this week… no post for me next week, need to recharge the blog brain as we get to the crucial GlassBuild stretch!  But when I return to this space week of October 1^st, it’ll be with a brand-new podcast with some serious industry heavyweights.  If any breaking news happens (you never know, there’s several big companies for sale right now, a deal could close) I’ll pop on to cover that on LinkedIn. Until then, stay well everyone!

 

LINKS of the WEEK

Hadn’t seen this story of rescue in Turkey- guy is super lucky!

 

Here we go again with “Extreme Home Makeover” -here’s hoping they don’t overbuild like they did previously (and leave the “lucky” family in a rough spot)

 

McDonalds getting rid of self-serve drink machines… interesting play that I think targets the people that sit at McDonalds for hours on end… 

 

PROJECT of the WEEK

This is an older one, but I love it and it deserves project of the week status… also it features material from the always splendid Tom O’Malley of Clover Architectural Products (aka the most popular guy in the industry), as well as Glass and Metalcraft and Guardian Glass.  Tremendous looking project in downtown Detroit glazed by Modern Mirror.  Really well done by everyone involved!! Congrats!

Be on Guard & Stay Informed

One of the most talked about parts of my post from last week was the video I posted from CNBC talking about banks being winners/losers during the growing volatility out there.  So this week when I saw this blurb on the excellent newsletter “The Scroll” I knew I had to share:

 

If real estate investors can’t pay the banks back—partially due to higher interest rates—the banks stop making real estate loans, which drives the price of real estate down, which makes it harder for investors to pay them back. This “doom spiral” will likely be put to the test over the next year, especially as $900 billion in loans will need to be paid off or refinanced by the end of 2024.

Scott Rechler, chief executive of real-estate investor RXR, told the WSJ that the situation is “creat[ing] a backup that will eventually overflow on the commercial real-estate markets and on the banking system.” And Blockworks macro researcher Jack Farley tweeted on Saturday, “I have it on good authority that 84% of office CMBS [commercial mortgage-backed securities] were not paid off in August.” 

 

Obviously, there’s an ominous tone there and for many in our industry not a surprise.  In some segments and regions, it’s starting to squeeze.  These comments surely add some insight to it all.  MORE than ever- insight is power- so you need to be at GlassBuild to hear what Connor Lokar has to say about this all and how it will affect our world.  The adventures continue…

 

Elsewhere…

 

--  In case you missed it… and not many of you did with some of the highest audio download numbers to date, (THANK YOU!) the latest From the Fabricator podcast dropped last week and featured 3 great guys bringing a variety of perspectives.  Hear from Joe Erb of Quanex, Nico Sanchez of Solite Systems and Charles Lubecke of Q-railing…

VIDEO

AUDIO – and also on Apple, Spotify, Google or wherever you get your podcasts

Meanwhile I’ve got the next edition lined up and I am bursting at the seams on it- unreal lineup- can’t wait!

 

--  Kudos to the awesome duo of Katy Devlin and Sara Neiswanger on the latest 2 episodes of Glass Cast.  They broke down the incredible presentations by Matt Kamper of Woodbridge Glass and David Ferret of Bagatelos Architectural Glass Systems and delivered a perfect length podcast on both.  Nothing better than lessons learned and these podcasts delivered the goods! 

#4 Video  Matt Kamper

#5 Video  David Ferret

Audio on Spotify and Apple- just search GlassCast (all one word)

 

-- A big congrats to the monster rep firm Seawall Architectural Products led by the dynamic duo of Kristen and Tony Kasprzak. They announced an expansion with the addition of Danielle Smith as Customer Experience Manager.  A great hire and shrewd move by the Seawall team.  Tony and Kristen just always keep that progress rolling!

 

--  Also speaking of strong companies making major positive moves- we can add Giroux Glass to that theme with the recent hiring of Jeff Heymann. This is huge news as Jeff is one of the most respected figures in our world (and a mission of mine to meet one of these days) and he’ll mesh nicely with the incredible group that Nataline Lomedico has built at Giroux.  Tremendous news here for sure. 

 

--  Last this week… a glass in TV/movie reference…. I am watching the mini-series “Special Ops-Lioness” on Paramount+.  It’s been solid though pretty formulaic (written by Taylor Sheridan of Yellowstone fame, he just cranks shows out) and they had a character bust through a tempered door lite with perfection and the tempered looked good too.  So unlike some other shows where the glass defied reality, this scene was legit.  

 

LINKS of the WEEK

The “Gator” trend has now hit Kentucky

 

Absolutely unreal here.  The pressure to turn planes and keep things running leads to awful scenarios like this- Air Canada should step up and do right by these folks.

 

This must be a super chill yoga class…

 

PROJECT of the WEEK

Some of my favorite people of all time take the spotlight this week… Aragon Construction with the 101 South Marengo retrofit.  This was a stone cube with no windows and Aragon and an amazing team of collaborators rejuvenated it into a stunner that features our main products at their finest!  Great case study on it HERE (a riveting read really) and KUDOS to Matt and Joey Aragon and the entire awesome team at Aragon for absolutely crushing this one!  

Podcast Trio of Justice

The latest edition of the From the Fabricator podcast is now up and we’ve got three folks coming from three different directions.  Good stuff on all- I start off with the industry stalwart Joe Erb of Quanex.  Joe is truly an “industry guy” and has so many good takes on our world, including what’s happening at Quanex, and more.  Then I go on an initial voyage with Nico Sanchez of Solite Systems.  I knew nothing on Nico and very little on Solite Systems, so this was a great chance to learn.  Nico is an interesting guy with a product that is special to our space.  Plus he joins Carl Christ of DFI and Katy Devlin of NGA in the "actual" rock star category.  In any case I think Solite Systems will be one to keep an eye on going forward.  Last I welcomed Charles Lubecke of Q-railing.  Charles has had a fascinating path to our world and has made some great impressions along the way.  Good to hear about Q’s progress too as that railing space is a strong one for glass and Q railing is all in there.  Each guy also did super with the “fun” question too- lots of food for thought there!  Thank you for checking it out as always!

VIDEO

AUDIO – and also on Apple, Spotify, Google or wherever you get your podcasts

Elsewhere…

 

--  Our world got some nice mainstream coverage this week with Kyle Sword of NSG Pilkington doing his best Brad Pitt imitation gracing the cover of a story in the Toledo Blade.  Kyle was featured in a piece about a tech hub coming to Toledo that would be a massive plus for the region.  No doubt his passion can sell this thing and help our industry shine!  Here’s the story!  Nice work Kyle!

 

--  Personnel moves… Good to see the ultra-talented Steven Acker take a role at Everest USA.  They are a strong window/curtain wall player in Europe making inroads in North America.  Obviously having someone like Steven on board will be a huge help.  Congrats my friend!  

Also recently I noted that the team at Super Sky added the top-notch rep team at PGP to their roster… well Brian Thomas there is on a roll because he did it again by adding industry vets Angus MacMillan and Allen Davidson and their firms to the organization.  I know both guys though I go further back with Angus and know he’s one of the best around.  Always love it when good people connect and match up with good organizations!

 

--  Speaking of good people, one is Joe Staffileno and he was nice enough to share with me this video of a major developer talking on CNBC about that tricky office market.  Pretty interesting take here on who the winners and losers may be as we continue to evolve the way the post covid office works.   

 

--  I’ve also talked on here about the team from Acelab, and I got an update on them this week.  They have made significant inroads adding a few massive players to the platform all the while reaching more and more architects.  If you haven’t been on the site in a while check it out, really gaining in all the right areas and a great look for our industry as we try to impress upon the design community.

 

--  Last this week… what everyone is waiting for… my Super Bowl pick!  Now my pre-season picks have not gone well (Thanks Baltimore) but my picks when the playoffs start have been on fire.  So now I have to channel that same energy into this pick and get it right.  I am going with an all “Quarterback” from Netflix final- Kansas City vs Minnesota.  Mahomes vs. Cousins.  (If you haven’t watched that show but remotely like football, you’ll love this series).  And I’m going with KC repeating.  Now that’s my head decision… Super Bowl I want to see?  Jets vs Lions.  Two fanbases that have been tortured.  The hype on this one would be off the charts- as would be ticket prices.  

 

LINKS of the WEEK

You always see the video of people walking into a glass door… this is a bit of a twist on that!

 

Another week, another Gator story…

 

You gotta see it to believe it!  A bull in a car- something tells me Andrew Haring will be bringing this guy to the GlassBuild Rodeo! 

 

PROJECT of the WEEK

SMU has been in the news this week for moving conferences (to the ACC) and they also have my project of the week honor!  This is Barr-McMillion Natatorium from the great team at B&B Glass in Dallas.  Just a sharp and clean project overall and love the overall team that collaborated on this.  Aside from B&B, aluminum was from Tubelite, primary glass from Vitro, fabricated glass from Tristar, and kudos to Dow for the sealant.  Good stuff by all and congrats on this one!

The Thrill of the Pod

Next week they’ll be a new episode of the From the Fabricator podcast.  It looks to be a good one and it got me to thinking on how many people I’ve interviewed so far.  The three guests that will appear will be numbers 114, 115, and 116.  When I tallied that up, I was somewhat stunned.  I did not think I had interviewed that many people but sure enough I have.  So I obviously missed the traditional milestone of 100 guests, so here’s noting it all now.  More than 100 guests in and the goal was to bring as many voices and views to the industry as possible.  It’s been such a cool run in getting to know people of every make and model in our space and looking forward to more to come.  I’ve had the honor of interviewing industry legends like Mr. Don Friese, major leaders like Ricardo Maiz, Steve Weidner, Garret Henson and Nicole Harris, and overall so many tremendously cool and smart people.  Plus I had guys like Adrian Lowenstein on before he added a Hollywood talent agent and complete entourage.  So there’s that! Catch up with it all by searching “From the Fabricator” where you get your podcasts (or find them here on Apple) and check them out, plus feel free to rate and review too!  Thanks for the support and I’ll continue to push these episodes out every month.  Also, while I do have a wish list of people that I am working on, if there’s someone you want me to chase down for an interview, let me know! 

 

Elsewhere…

 

--  The latest Architectural Billings index was released this week and it came in at a dead flat number of 50.0.  Remember 50 is the break-even so that’s where we are at and with last month being at 50.1 this is being considered as “stable” and I guess we’ll take it.  In some of the surveys of respondents though it was noted some more softening was taking place so that bears following.  In addition, the Design Contracts and Design Inquiries both dropped, so really this was not a good month despite things staying level.  We’ve all been expecting the volatility and while it hasn’t been as intense as we thought, it is here.  My worry continues to be the interest rate issue and the economy overall are just not encouraging for positive times and eventually the indexes will show it.  

 

--  The great Dr. Kayla Natividad of NSG/Pilkington sent me this amazing read on the need for good glass in Ukraine.  Really something and also a line in there about quality that will make you chuckle. 

 

--  I’ve talked on here many times about Chris Phillips and his incredible resource on Facebook with the Shower Door Professionals group.  Now Chris expanded and has a newsletter for that group that you can subscribe too and get the latest. Here’s the link to the current edition and from there you sign up for it and also join the group and more.  If you are in the shower door world in any capacity, it is a must. 

--  GlassBuild.  You know I am going to keep harping on it because YOU HAVE TO BE THERE.  Have you looked at the quality and quantity of exhibitors?  My gosh it is amazing.  So many great companies from all over the world.  Everything you need all in one place over 3 days in Atlanta.  Seriously if you are not building those networks ahead of any “soft times” as mentioned above, you are doing it wrong.  Attending and being active on that GlassBuild floor is a big key to business in 2024- so I’d make sure you’re there. 

 

--  Last this week… College Football is back… I do love this sport but I am afraid with all of the conference changes its going to lose some luster.  Until then though I am going to enjoy it all to the max.  Who’s gonna win it all?  I’d love to see Michigan but they’re snakebit constantly (sometime self inflicted) and so I am going with their rival Ohio State.  As many know I do not like Ohio State (I went to “little brother Ohio U. and live in Michigan so I really can’t like the Buckeyes) but that team is stacked and amazingly there are people sleeping on them right now.  So Ohio State over Georgia is the call…

 

LINKS of the WEEK

The growth of the basement! (love mine!)

 

Not used to having Gators in Michigan!

 

Is it me or is infrastructure everywhere and in every segment suffering? 

 

PROJECT of the WEEK

The fabulous Dan Plotnick of Vitro Architectural Glass gets the spotlight this week with his push on a groundbreaking project at Lafayette College.  This has 3 VERY hot products on it- High performance low e (Solarban 90) Bird Friendly markings, AND Vacumax VIG.  This is the fiture and of course Dan teamed up with great folks like Glass Enterprises to make it happen.  And kudos to Michael Spellman too as his VIG vision continues to come into big time focus.  Great work gang! 

Thoughts out West

Never thought I’d be leading off a blog talking about a hurricane hitting southern California and the southwest but here we are.  Obviously sending positive thoughts to all, especially with regards to the rains and floods.  When I saw the following blurb in weather blog I trust, it opened my eyes…

“The overall rainfall will exceed 12-14 Trillion gallons across the Western U.S. states including CA, NV, AZ, UT, OR, ID, MT. This will be a major event across several states in mountainous terrain. The area of 2-4” rain with isolated amounts to 12-inches will be considerable including Los Angeles, San Diego, Death Valley and Las Vegas.”

Stay safe out there my friends. 

Note- We’re also watching the updated predictions for storms on the east coast this season.  Last year was a rough one and this year has started off quiet.  Would really be nice to skate by with minimal action out there….

 

Elsewhere…

 

--  Coming up on August 30^th a big webinar via the NGA and Architectural Record. “The Power of Protective Glass” is the subject and given how critical (and popular) that category is this is truly one to check out.  Plus anytime you can see the great Julie Schimmelpenningh of Eastman and Thom Zaremba present- you can’t pass that up.  More info HERE!

 

-- Good article from CBS on more kids picking trades over college.  Would like to see this trend to keep growing.  Makes me think about efforts from people like Jodi Martinez at Allstar Glass are paying off!

 

--  One of the big draws at GlassBuild is hearing from Conor Lokar, the amazing economist from ITR. He is back again this year and will actually be giving a more extended presentation on the economy and outlook.  He’ll be in the Main Stage area on 10/31 at 2:30- so that is one you want to do everything you can to be there for…. Among other major happenings there of course.  Registration is coming along nicely and hotels are filling… so get to GlassBuild.com and stake your place if you haven’t done so yet!

 

--  Speaking of forecasts, the latest from the ABC was pretty positive despite the various headwinds.  There’s still a major case that a slowing is coming (as expected in 2Q ’24) but for now ride this wave folks.  Here’s the breakdown on the latest.

 

--  I have noted here many times my admiration for Rob Struble of Vitro and he has done it again with a spectacular new catalog release.  I know from experience doing these things are fraught with nightmares at every turn, but Rob makes it look easy.  Great edition produced by him and his team and love the additions of products like VacuMax.  Also really enjoy the recognition handed out to so many of the best companies in our space.  Tremendous resource and congrats Rob on a job well done!  Check it out here!

 

--  Last this week… a while back Rolling Stone magazine ran a list of its Top 200 singers and it’s absolutely crazy and wrong in many spots.  But it does offer up a chance to debate.  A few quibbles from me.. it’s a crime to have Elton John at 100 or Stevie Nicks at 93 or Johnny Cash at 85 or Steve Perry at 82.  That’s just a quick smidgen of performers too low.  Willie Nelson and Tina Turner in the 50’s is crazy low too.  Smokey Robinson at 23 also too low for a legend like that. But I will say the top 15 isn’t that bad and at least my guy Freddy Mercury is in there along with some other serious legends.  Interesting list for sure…

LINKS of the WEEK

I’m not ready for grass houses and what comes with them.

 

This just fascinated me for some reason- determining what was wrong with this Gator.

 

Big fines and a lot to unpack on this story of a family and lots of plants and vegetation in its yard.

 

PROJECT of the WEEK
Usually I want more glass in my structures but this one worked for me.  This is the Pacific Beach Middle School in San Diego and glazed by Pacific Coast Glazing Inc.  Nice work- the glass and sunshades look awesome.  No word on the post on who supplied those but super job by the team at Pacific Coast on the install!  Congrats!  And again to all out there in line of "Hilary" (including the gang from our project of the week) stay well and safe- hang in there!

 

 

The Best... and Staying That Way

“Glass can do everything…” that was the headline for the annual Glass Magazine Awards and when you look at the winners you realize that indeed it really can do everything!  I loved going through the projects especially. Congrats to everyone who participated in this process as it makes our industry look great.  And kudos to the winners- folks like Glass 3 Enterprises who have been involved in some amazing projects over the years getting recognition here.  Also I have been a fan of Goldray and they were amongst the honorees as was Vitro, Guardian and many many more.  A veritable who’s who of winners.  See it all HERE.

 

Elsewhere…

 

--  Now the tough side- to do “everything” you need the right recipe overall and that right now has been a challenge.  Quality and performance have struggled from the fabrication side in many parts of the country mostly because of labor shortages.  Thus, my timely reminder that moving to automated and innovative manufacturing equipment is a must.  I know it can be pricey, but it is worth the investment knowing that the labor situation is NOT going to get better. Installers have a lot of patience but the people they install for are starting to get antsy, so we need to keep on our overall efforts to perform at the highest levels. 

 

--  I’ve talked a bit here and on my podcast on the resurgence of work in the lodging space and despite some mixed messages lately, it looks like that pipeline is holding up nicely.  This piece 

From Building Design + Construction delivered the positive news.

 

--  CONGRATS to a great guy and talent in our industry- Alan Kinder- on his new role at Guardian Glass.  Alan is now Director, Commercial Segment and will do a tremendous job in that spot.  For me Alan made his mark during the pandemic with awesome videos on working from home and from there just took off including always promoting great work online and delivering the tightest 5 minutes on bird friendly ever recorded.  In any case very happy to see some added recognition and responsibility coming his way!

 

--  Also on the new gig side of things NEXT Energy Technologies promoted Brenton Taylor to CEO.  NEXT is making positive in-roads on the transparent photovoltaic space that I am an unabashed fan of and I think this is an excellent move overall as from all I know and have heard Brenton’s experience is perfect to take this company to the next level.  We need strong leadership at these emerging companies and this looks like a perfect fit for sure. 

 

--  Thoughts and prayers to those affected by the fires in Hawaii.  Absolutely devastating to see and the recovery is going to take a very long time.  The before and after photos/video are jawdropping.  Hoping for the best there.

 

--  Last this week… GlassBuild season is underway and it got me thinking of what was my most memorable or best event ever.  Now those who have seen the comical picture of a star struck Max smiling endlessly next to Cal Ripken at the 2003 GlassBuild probably think that was it.  (if you haven’t seen, I am sure Andrew Haring will share it! LOL) Obviously that was a heck of a time and experience, but I’ll go with recency bias on this one. My most memorable is just last year in Vegas.  Seeing a crazy packed floor and people who hadn’t seen each other in 2 years or more connecting was awesome.  It really hit home for me how great this industry is and how much we missed being able to get together.  So with that said, let’s not ever take for granted these shows and opportunities to see each other.  GlassBuild registration is open and I think it’s time to make those plans and get there.  And yes I know day 1 is Halloween.  So it’s good that there’s two more days of GlassBuild to visit!  Make your plans now- as nothing truly can replace that chance to visit with people in person, see the materials and machines in person, and learn the latest and greatest.  GlassBuild.com to do it all and if you all come I promise I’ll smile as giddily as I did back in 2003! 

 

LINKS of the WEEK

I have not run into the newer “junk fees” for hotels (beyond the “resort charges” in Vegas) so this was not a great thing to see.

 

Sad and scary but the owner had to do what he had to do… 

 

Hate government waste and this overrun is ugly

 

PROJECT of the WEEK

One of my favorite companies is Tristar Glass.  They really do it the right way and always classy too.  This project came across my feed and stopped me in my tracks- just beautiful. This is in Oklahoma and it’s the Chickasaw Community Bank Headquarters.  I may have mentioned fab issues above but there’s no issues here that’s for sure!  Glass manufactured by Vitro and installed by Tietsort LLC.  Kudos to everyone on this amazing and stunning job!