A Few Minutes With...
A Few Minutes With… Jeff Meyer, President
Baillie Lumber Company, Hamburg, NY
Differentiation is the challenge.

Custom Shop
From crates to fine furniture is how Bobby Nixon, owner of Nixon Cabinet Co., Athens, Ala., describes the changes in cabinets he has witnessed in the 40 years his company has been manufacturing them. He credits his decision to enter the world of software with helping him keep pace with those dramatic developments along the way.

Finish Line
What are finishing system manufacturers doing to address the demands of a changing marketplace? Modern Woodworking interviews Adam Verse, president of Giardina Finishing, to gain his insight into issues surrounding today’s finishing systems.

Hot Gear
Get descriptions and request information about products from our participating companies.

Drying and Roughmill
Some comments on hand-held moisture
meters in hardwood lumber drying. Dr. Fred Lamb examines the different types of moisture meters and their role in hardwood drying.

Material Issues
Hard maple and soft maple ride the wave of white wood popularity.

Production Line
J.V. Installations has found success in the Orlando-area residential and commercial cabinet markets. James Vargas, president and owner, talks about seeking better opportunities in the United States and his company’s growth during its first seven years of operation.

Process of the Month
For Ernst Cabinet Works in Hamburg, Pa., the implementation of an advanced software program has simplified the complicated designs associated with high-end custom kitchen cabinetry, along with streamlining its production process. Meanwhile, Top Drawer Component in Apache Junction, AZ, has improved its margins with new optimization software.

Proving Ground
It’s a nice predicament when you can’t think of anything bad to say about something. But that’s the situation Pete Long, president and owner of Upland, CA-based Cherokee Wood Products, finds himself in when he’s talking about German beech from Pollmeier, Inc..

Sanding Sense
Bottom side sanders present major problems and challenges that will negate any perceived production advantages to employing them, says sanding expert Howard Grivna. Read why he believes you are better off turning parts over and always sanding on top machines.

Supply Side
A wide array of closet accessories provide space savings and functionality for designers and homeowners. Get a look at the latest products from leading manufacturers.

Target Technology AWFS Vegas
Get a sneak peek at the products exhibitors will be showcasing during the AWFS Vegas tradeshow in Las Vegas, Nev., July 27-30.

Think Lean
Traveling along the “Lean Journey” can be trying at times, and if you go it alone, quite lonely. Lean manufacturing expert Ken Rolfes has found being able to network with peers in the same and different industries to be invaluable. One such source of peers is the Association for Manufacturing Excellence (AME).

Trends
New technology means nothing if it doesn’t bring profit along with it. That’s why the price/performance ratio was the theme of this year’s LIGNA 2005 held May 2 - 6 in Hannover, Germany.

Trends Extra
AWFS announced it would once again be sponsoring up to 40 teachers, covering their travel and hotel expenses in order for them to participate in this year’s WoodLINKS Teachers Forum to be held at the AWFS Fair in July.

Words of Wisdom
Peter Perez has spent his entire business career in manufacturing. That’s one reason he’s so passionate about the United States keeping a strong manufacturing base.