WHO'S WHO HONORABLE MENTION

Who's Who Honorable Mention

American Painting Contractor acknowledges these professional men and women for their professionalism in the industry. From sound business skills to impressive accomplishments, they earn 2008 Honorable Mentions. The listings below feature established contractors that attract new customers while keeping the current ones satisfied, as well as more recently launched enterprises that are experiencing growth in their markets.

Evergreen Technology
Lynn Fife, Consultant
Arlington , Texas

Fife is a member of the Painting and Decorators Association of America. The Construction Industry Training Council of Washington honored her, bestowing her with its Instructor of the Year award. PDCA California Council has awarded her its Recruiter of the Year. Of her contributions to the industry, she says, “I have presented many workshops and seminars to help painting contractors learn the business side of being successful. No other consulting firm comes close to giving so much to the painting contractor for so little money.”

Intl. Union of Painters and Allied Trades
Eric Redding, Director of Apprenticeship and Training
Roslindale , Mass.

Redding 's work with the IUPAT has helped the organization serve an industry that employs more than 140,000 men and women in the United States and Canada . IUPAT supports members who work as painters, drywall finishers and wall coverers. Redding serves as the president for District Council 35 of the IUPAT's Joint Training Program Trust. He is a member SSPC and NGA. Awards: Helmets and Hardhats Achievement and General President's award.

Oro Studios, Inc.
Teri Althouse, Co-owner
Denver

Althouse's published works appear in The Faux Finisher , Faux Effects International, and in Daytona Beach News-Journal's special section, “Grand Design.” Her most recent honors include being conferred as “Master Faux Finisher” by invitation to Meeting of the Masters and participation in the Parade of Homes, which granted her its Perfect Score award in addition to a G old Certificate for Best Faux Finish on an Architectural Element. For years she has been recognized for her outstanding decorative finishes, particularly her large-scale interior and exteriors projects, from coast to coast. Her work has been seen in Profiles and Faux Effects World magazines.

RESIDENTIAL PAINTERS

5th Avenue Paint Company
Thomas J. Buczek, Owner
Belle Fourche , S.D.

Buczek developed fifth Avenue Paint Co. as a low-key, unassuming company of quality. Buczek handpicked and personally trained the tradespeople. Buczek provides “A First Class Finish” and the business is operated to “treat others as you would like to be treated.”

Ace Painting Services, Inc.
Richard Brondi, President/CEO
Fox Lake , Ill.

One of the biggest challenges in Brondi's career was repainting a large cement silo factory. He repainted the outside of the building, which was 30 stories high and located on a windy lakefront.

Acoata Paint and Remodeling Inc.
Randy Calloway, President
Cypress , Texas

For the past several years, Randy Calloway has brought home the gold – the Better Business Bureau has awarded him four consecutive Gold Star Awards. On one occasion, he almost turned down a job that turned out to be especially rewarding. “I gave a bid to someone who decided to use another contractor. Later, they called me back because the other contractor botched the job. At first, I didn't know whether I wanted to do the repair work, but I ended up doing it. As a result, I've done several new jobs for that customer, who also gave me many referrals.”

AG Williams Painting Company
George Williams, President
Art Williams, Treasurer
Pelham , N.Y.

"In this cyclical and seasonal business, the longevity of the AG Williams company stands out as a remarkable accomplishment,” Williams said. “In our local area, we are the gold standard for painting companies. People want to use our services." Awards granted to Williams include town, county and state proclamations in 2006 to honor the company's 100th anniversary. Williams appeared in APC 's 2007 listing of “Who's Who” honorable mentions.

Ahern Painting
John T. Ahern, President
Cherry Hill , N.J.

Ahern is a member of the PDC and won APC 's TOP JOB award in 2006 in the residential category. He has worked with the Painting and Decorators Association of America to raise industry standards.

AJC Painting Inc.
Tony Chieffo Sr., President
Fort Washington , Pa.

Tony Chieffo has been in the business of providing the Delaware Valley with painting services for 27 years. He specializes in new construction, both residential and commercial. He is a member of the Bucks-Montgomery Counties Chapter and the Chester-Delaware Counties Chapter of Home Builders as well as several other associations and organizations.

A & K Painting Co. Inc.
John A. Robbins, President
Charlotte , N.C.

Robbins has contributed his considerable talents to A & K Painting, a company that employs 36 full-time workers. Community service projects that the business has performed have benefited Habitat for Humanity and Villa Heights Elementary School . Membership in Painting and Decorating Contractors of America .

Arizona's Best Services
David L. Walter, Owner
Tempe , Ariz.

Walter was the recipient of the Outstanding Young Man of America Award and the Volunteer of the Year Award from the Muscular Dystrophy Association. He has owned Arizona 's Best Services for more than 16 years.

Barnes Painting Co.
David Barnes, Owner
Red Oak, Iowa

Barnes is a member of the Red Oak Chamber of Commerce and the Red Oak Industrial Foundation. He has received numerous awards through Associated General Contractors for the company's commercial work. "One of our better challenges has been refinishing most of the oak in the Montgomery County Court House," he said. “We have worked in 11 states.”

Beverly Painters and Decorators
John Monaco
Yonkers , N.Y.

John Monaco is a member of both the USA and New York Painting and Decorators Association of America. He has professionally decorated the prestigious homes of famous actors, people in the music industry and sports. He is a certified lead abatement contractor, and he has received awards from PDCA (USA), Governor Pataki and several organizations.

Brooks Painting, Inc.
Jeremy Ryan Brooks, President
Davis , Calif.

Brooks is a member of the Painting and Decorators Association of America, Advisors on Target, Nolan Consulting Group, Residential Counsel, the Better Business Bureau, NARI, BNI and three chambers of commerce. Brooks Painting was ranked eighth in the “25 Top Painting Contractors” in 2005 Business Journal .

Bryant Painting Inc.
Timothy Bryant, President
Oconomowoc , Wis.

Bryant painting specializes in antiquing new wood so that it is an identical match to antique furnishings. Challenging projects of the past include rehabilitating a mansion that was more than one hundred years old, salvaging barns and log homes, and preserving old wood.

Buckeye Painting and Decks, Inc.
Mario F.X. Salwan, President
Cleveland

Salwan is a member of the Painting and Decorators Association of America, better business bureau, the Tri-City Chamber of Commerce PRO, COSE and JCU. He was the recipient of the 2006 Better Business Bureau Honorable Mention for conducting business with integrity. He also was the PDCA Cleveland chapter president for two consecutive terms from 2004 through 2007.

Certa Pro Painters of Richmond
Joseph Lisi, Owner/Operator
Richmond , Va.

Winner of the Better Business Bureau's Torch Award for 10 years of complaint-free business, Certa Pro implements strict estimating guidelines to ensure that customers receive thorough, clear and comprehensive proposals. “Our work always comes in on time and on budget,” Lisi said. “We appraise the job, not the neighborhood. Everyone gets a fair shake!"

CISMYR Improvements
Bryon Skvor, Owner
Oberlin , Ohio

Skvor is a member of the NKBA and NASE. He offers full-service remodeling and custom cabinetry as well as painting. "We have been able to find a niche in a very crowded field by offering clients total packages that meet their needs.

Deco-Art
Donald M. Gibson, Owner
Denver

Gibson specializes in painting, wallpapering and decorative painting. Throughout the years, Gibson and his company have painted several murals, some of which had unusual guidelines from the owners. Each Christmas Gibson's company installs large wreaths for a local church as a community service.

Decorating by Derrick Inc.
Derrick Diacono, President
Wixom , Mich.

Diacono is a member of the National Guild of Professional Paperhangers and has been acknowledged for completing Benjamin Moore's marketing program. "The challenge we face in Michigan is the economy,” he explained, “which means we have gone from doing strictly residential painting and wall coverings to expanding our services, which include insurance and commercial work.”

Destefano Painting Co. Inc.
Gene Destefano, President
Virginia Beach , Va.

Gene Destefano is a member of Painting and Decorators Association of America He says of Destefano Painting, “Our reputation is flawless. My son Joey is an excellent craftsman and our people have been with us from two to 25 years. We do paintwork, faux and wood grain.” He has 33 years worth of thank you notes, which is indicative of his level of customer appreciation.

DJS Painting, Inc.
Daniel J. Haer, National Accts Manager
Bridgeton , N.J.

Haer, a member of Painting and Decorators Association of America, has volunteered his services at the Roosevelt Park Senior Housing Park and has given free paint to churches and the YMCA. The company also participates in Toys for Tots.

Gemco Painting, Inc.
Robert C. Gemma, President
Hollywood , Fla.

Gemco is the first vice president of the Gulf Stream Painting and Decorators Association of America. He is a member of the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce and the Broward Chamber of Commerce, as well as the SSA. Gemco has volunteered with the following organizations: Make-A-Wish, Hope Outreach, Repaint Boys and Girls Club (through PDCA), and Saint Jude Jail and Bail.

Goddard's Painting Service LLC
Richard Goddard, President
North Reading , Mass.

Goddard's principal areas of service are residential interior and exterior painting. The business has been in existence for 29 years and has painted many historical landmarks in the state of Massachusetts .

Gordon Myers and Sons

Scott Myers, President

New Freedom, Pa.

Myers has the honorable distinction of keeping a family business going for 62 years and earning an excellent reputation. A total of three brothers built the business with client referrals and they do not have to advertise for work. One of the most challenging parts of his work is the recent material cost increases.

High Sierra Painting and Decorating Inc.

Kevin Cornell, GM

Sparks , Nev.

High Sierra specializes in painting commercial and residential custom homes and is in its 13th year of business. It currently employs 52 full-time employees and annual revenue for 2007 was $4.8 million. "We have grown more than 30 percent over the last three to four years. We've added a lot of outsource training for our staff.” Memberships include the Painting and Decorators Association of America, and NAIOP, and the Better Business Bureau.

Jack Stone & Son Painting

Jack Stone, Owner

Moscow , Pa.

Stone specializes in high-end homes. He has been in business for 54 years and is skilled at "taking old homes and bringing them back to life as they were 50 years ago."

Jalapeno Paint Werx

Tom Reber and Bruce Watson, Co-owners

Yorkville , Ill.

Here's a hot idea: move from a large, established town to a smaller, developing one with strong growth potential. “We started Jalapeno Paint Werx in 2004 in an affluent town with many competitors. The market was saturated with painting companies. A neighboring county was the third fastest growing country in the U.S. ,” so Jalapeno relocated there and quickly became established. Benjamin Moore ProFiles magazine featured their work in the fall/winter 2008 issue.

Jaworski Coatings Inc.

Matt Jaworski, Owner

Lagrange , Ohio

Matt Jaworski is a member of Painting and Decorating Contractors of America and the Alliance of Professional Painters. He is an annual supporter of the March of Dimes' Walk for Babies, and he has sponsored local girls' softball teams and donated labor and paint for the repainting of a local preschool. He said some of the challenges he has faced include “keeping up with the latest technology and making the switch from marketing and advertising from print to the Internet. Our Web site is the top painting contractor in the area on most search engines.” Like most trained and experienced professionals, he competes for business against amateurs who “lowball” the more seasoned contractors.

Jimenez Custom Painting, Inc.

Jorge Jimenez, President

Van Nuys , Calif.

Jimenez is a member of the Painting and Decorators Association of America and the Society of Gilders. Jimenez's company has been in business for more than 13 years and has a proven record of accomplishment. Most his projects come from repeat clients.

Just Painting Inc.

Pierre G. Rattini, President

Olathe , Kan.

Rattini is a member of the Better Business Bureau. He is known as a skilled problem solver and is excellent at providing direction. Just Painting has been rated 10 out of 10 in the Just Customer Surveys.

Kentucky Painting Co.

Carl A. Hughes, President

Frankfurt . Ky.

Hughes is a member of the BBB, Chamber of Commerce, Habitat for Humanity, and the National Contractor Association. Some awards he has received include the Louisville Tour of Homes Best Interior award, the 2001 Contractor — Community Enhancement Award, and the Small Business Excellence Award from the SBAA of Kentucky.

Lakosil Decorators Inc.

James Lakosil, President/Owner

Oak Brook , Ill.

During his 21 years in business of redoing high-end and residential interiors and exteriors, James Lakosil has completed many impressive projects. One of these included stripping and refinishing the exterior of the Hinsdale, Ill. , Historical House, stripping one hundred years worth of paint down to the bare wood that was then refinished.

Lane Brothers, Inc.

William E. Lane , President

Richmond , Va.

Lane's company has been involved in such special projects as the renovation of the Virginia Governor's Mansion, St. Mary's Hospital wing renovation, the Valentine Museum and St. John's Episcopal Church.

LeRoy Broatz Painting LLC

LeRoy E. Broatz, President

Plymouth , Wis.

In the summer of 2006, Broatz and the company stripped a 100-year old home and replaced all of the rotted wood, gave it a full prime coat, and finished the project with a finish coat of Halman Lindsey Generation. Broatz is a member of NAPP, Better Business Bureau, the Plymouth Chamber of Commerce and BNI.

Lyles' Painting

Eric G. Lyles, Owner

Bartlett , Tenn.

Lyles is a member of the Memphis Area Homebuilders Association and the NAHB; Lyles' Painting is also listed in the Who's Who in Executives and Professionals. Lyles' Painting provides services and talent for a local church and Carpenters for Christ.

Mark Schoenfelder Painting Inc.

Mark José Schoenfelder, President

Minnetonka , Minn.

Even in a slumping housing market, Schoenfelder managed to grow sales by more than 20 percent in 2007, marking the 15th consecutive year of increased sales. He also instituted a total quality management system. The company is committed to focusing on customer satisfaction.

Nagelmann Painting & Decorating

A. Steven Nagelmann, Owner

Santa Barbara , Calif.

Nagelmann has been involved with many industry associations including past president of Painting and Decorating Contractors of California, member of the board of directors of the Los Angeles Painting and Finishing Contractors Association and an alternate member of Painting and Decorators Association of America.

Neubert Painting Inc.

John Neubert

Lakewood , Ohio

John Neubert earned a Bronze Eagle award at the St. Edward High School in Lakewood Ohio for volunteerism. He and his contracting business, which specializes in residential interior and exterior repainting, have successfully persevered despite a depressed Northeast Ohio economy.

One-Stop Painting and Renovating Inc.

Jeff Cohn, President

Plymouth , Mass.

Cohn said one of his notable accomplishments included being able to offer "health insurance, vacation and retirement to all of my employees.” The company employs 27 full-time workers and has been in business for 22 years. Moreover, its approximate annual revenue for 2007 was $2 million.

Painting America Corporation

Rick Carter, CEO

Long Beach , Calif.

Carter monitors the trends of the industry and has access to innovative information in support of this full-service painting company. The company has a background of client projects that includes new construction, condominiums, apartments, shopping centers and schools. Specialties are interior and exterior custom painting, Venetian plaster, crown molding installation and murals.

Painting America Inc.

Cory Howard, CEO

Hudson , Wis.

Cory Howard launched Painting America six years ago. Every year since, the amount of revenue and number of employees has increased. “When we started out, the housing market was doing quite well,” he said. “Then in late 2005, the housing market started to decline, but we continued to grow. We were awarded commercial projects, which now make up about 40 percent of our business.” Winner of several Reggie Awards from Parade of Homes.

Painting in Partnership Inc.

Mario Guertin, President

Palatine , Ill.

Mario Guertin has accomplished a lot since his appearance on these pages as the 2007 Top Small Business Honoree in Who's Who in the Painting Industry. He spearheaded the creation of the Craftsman of the Year Awards at Painting and Decorators Association of America, which the PDCA granted to five outstanding artisans in January of 2008. Some recent awards from PDCA: the 2007 Residential Interior Award, Residential Exterior Award and 2008 Liddeke Distinguished Service Award.

Pastel Painters Inc.

Joseph S. Heller, President

Newport , Del.

Heller is a member of the Associate Building Contractors, IMFA and the National Guild of Professional Paperhangers . His company has been involved with many community service projects including the March of Dimes and Ronald McDonald House. In addition, Pastel Painters contributed to the new SWK Center for the University of Delaware .

Paul M. Wareham Custom Drywall & Painting

Paul Wareham, Owner

Frederick , Md.

Wareham 's philosophy has led to many accomplishments and successes: "We always strive to complete projects with the ultimate integrity and first-class workmanship,” he said. “We offer top-quality services and products at a fair price. We take pride in our final product, and always put customer satisfaction at the top of our priority list. ”

Powell & Puleo Painting Inc.

Betty D. Powell, President

Danny C. Puleo, Vice President

Tampa , Fla.

Powell and Puleo's family-owned business is listed on Angie's List, Service Magic, Renovation Experts, Reliable Remodeler and Service Connection. Projects range from cottage to ranch, resort to home. Powell & Puleo are known for caring about clients' homes or offices as if they were their own. Services provided include house washing, deck cleaning, sealing painting.

Pro-Painters, Inc.

Luis A. Puccio, President

Fairfax Station, Va.

Puccio has been the recipient of several awards and honors including the Century 21 New Millennium Award and the Service Magic Contractor of the Month. He is a member of the Painting and Decorators Association of America, BBD, and his company has a Lloyds of London rating.

R. Chobert Decorating Co. Inc.

Rupert B. Chobert, Founder & President

Philadelphia

Chobert is a member of the PDCA and the Guild of RP. While president of his local PDC chapter, Chobert initiated the painting and decorating course at the Delaware County Vocational Technical School . Chobert offers an array of services: wall covering, interior and exterior house painting, faux and decorative finishes and drywall and plaster repair.

Renaissance Restoration Inc.

Terry W. Cole, President

Galena , Ill.

"The biggest challenge we have faced is the removal of old paint in preparation of paint coatings at national register properties," Cole said. "On the cutting edge of the coating removal in the 1970s, we bought one of the first water blasters produced by AJ Spiegel. We were also one of the first contractors to use strippers for removal of paint coatings from masonry and wood structures.” The 35-year-old business has an approximate annual revenue for 2007 of close to $4 million.

RL Swenson and Sons Painting and Decorating

Robert Swenson, President

West Jordan, Utah

Swenson has served as Painting and Decorators Association of America chapter chairperson on seminars for six years. He enjoyed working with other (often younger) painters to teach them the trade. His services are commercial and residential. "I enjoy being active in the profession," he said. “I have chaired many other positions, too.” Membership in SSPC.

Ronson Painting

Jesse R. Jackson, Owner

Omaha , Neb.

Jesse R. Jackson has a successful business story. “We doubled our gross sales the last three years. Even in this changing market we have managed to stay busy.” He is reliable and focuses on customers' needs. He has the support of a strong crew, “who care about their work and the company.” Specialties include cabinet antiquing and lacquered woodwork.

Schiller &Vroman, Inc.

Steve Schiller, President

Bob Schiller, Secretary/Treasurer

Portland , Ore.

The Schillers have received the Painting and Decorators Association of America (chapter) Contractor of the Year award, the Oregon Council Contractor of the Year award and the Top Specialty Contractor award. In its 22 years of operation, the company has seen more than $75 million worth of sales. Approximate annual revenue for 2007 is $4.5 million, and the company employees 50 full-time employees.

Schinman Painting & Construction, Inc.

Philip Schinman, President

San Francisco

Schinman is a member of the PDCA and has been in business for 15 years. Some community projects Schinman has been involved in include assisting Habitat for Humanity, Christmas in April and the Lakeshore Elementary School .

Shepherd Painting

Bill Shepherd, Owner

Garland , Texas

Bill Shepherd and his painters hold certificates in painting and Italian plastering from schools located in the United States and Canada . Two of the three Ralph Lauren certified painters in the state of Texas are employed by Shepperd. Sherwin-Williams selected the company for decorative painting in their upscale Dallas-area stores. When it comes to full-service painting, wallcovering and Italian plastering, Shepperd is the company that owners of multimillion-dollar estates choose.

Specialty Coatings Inc.

Thomas Machak, President

Norfolk , Va.

Machak is a member of the Hampton Roads Chamber of Commerce, the Better Business Bureau and the Builders Trade Association. He is the recipient of the 2005 and 2006 Best of Norfolk awards. Nineteen years of experience have honed his expertise. "We have learned over the years that the use of premium grade materials,” he said, “not only make the job look better and last longer, but it is also more cost efficient on the labor. It takes a combination of dedicated employees, a wide range of premium-grade product, and very strict management to stay ahead of the pack."

Sturtz Finishes

David L. Sturtz, Owner

Bellingham , Wash.

Sturtz has been in the painting and drywall industry since 1990. His family has been involved in the construction industry since the 1930s. He is a native of Whatcom County along with his family. Sturtz Finishes also is involved with Habitat for Humanity and a member of the Building Industry Association of Washington.

Tegrey Family of Coatings

Terry Miller, Co-owner

Canton , Ohio

Miller is a member of Painting and Decorators Association of America and PWNA. Recently Miller's wife, Peggy, was named the “Spouse Contractor of the Year” by Cleaner Times. Miller has served on various national PDCA committees, such as national standards and the by-laws nominations. Miller's company is now the ninth company to receive professional accreditation from the PDCA of the Contractor College .

The Fine Arts, LLC

Robert D. Bankston, President

Holbrook , N.Y.

Bankston belongs to the Society of Decorative Painters and the National Trust for Historic Preservation. This year, The Fine Arts, LLC Printing and Decorating voluntarily painted a retirement home in the local community.

Troutman Drywall Inc.

Elvin Troutman, Owner

Stillwell , Kan.

Troutman Drywall specializes in "spray on level 5 application" and drywall-based primers and surfacers. A member of the HBA and ABC Troutman has performed community service on behalf of projects for Habitat for Humanity, the Cancer House and Extreme Home Makeover.

TWG Enterprises Waterproofing and Painting, Inc.

Todd W. Gallo, President

Delray Beach , Fla.

Gallo is a member of the Delray Beach Chamber of Commerce and the Painting and Decorators Association of America. During the past 13 years, Gallo has seen his one-man company grow into a million dollar company. Gallo also is designing and constructing TWG's new 13,000-plus-foot facility.

Wayne Powell Painting Inc.

Ray Powell, President

Airway Heights , Wash.

Wayne Powell Painting has the distinction of having completed every project that they started. It has been doing business under the same name for 68 years and during the past 20 years business has grown 400 percent. In 2007, Powell received Contractor of the Year award and Recruiter of the Year award.

DIFFERENT FONT: DECORATIVE PAINTERS

Alatis Interiors Co. Ltd.

Thomas Alatis, President

New Hyde Park , N.Y.

Alatis Interiors has restored many residential homes and apartments throughout Manhattan and Long Island . The company has a long record of accomplishment, providing faux finish painting and paper hanging at well-known restaurants in Manhattan .

Amazing Walls Inc.

Max Bender, General Manager

Minooka , Ill.

For 12 years, Amazing Walls, Inc. has offered an array of interior painting and decorating services, such as creative hand painted wall art trompe l'oeil scenes and murals. The company staff of 15 full timers and has created a wide variety of faux finishes that have been featured in decor magazines, television shows and model homes.

Aspen Painting, Inc.

Roger I. Moyer, President/Owner

Aspen , Colo.

President/Owner; Aspen, Co.

Moyer's Aspen Painting has been in business for more than 38 years. Moyer is a member of PIC and the National Historic Trust. He and his staff have been involved in providing artistic work for a local art museum.

B.T.G.L.A.

Craig Preston, Owner

Van Nuys , Calif.

Preston is a member of the Visual Arts Gallery, SILA and Artists Helping Artists. He has won numerous awards including the Los Angeles City Council Certificate of Appreciation and the California State Assembly Award of Recognition.

Corse Creations

Tania Corse, Owner

Sunnyside , N.Y.

Corse is a decorative painter and a member of the Stencil Artisans League Inc. and has owned Corse Creations for more than three years.

DesignOvations, Inc.

Mary K. Hansen, President

Loveland , Ohio

Hansen has owned DesignOvations for more than seven years. She is a member of NGPP and won the Handyman Seal Stamp of Approval.

Diane Bloom Inc.

Diane Bloom, President

Weymouth , Mass.

A painter for more than 30 years, Bloom's biggest challenge has been staying on top of ever-changing trends. For example, when paperhanging jobs slowed down, she added decorative finishes to her repertoire of popular, high-end work. She also added commercial jobs, working on nursing homes, condominiums and even restaurants. She is a member of the GTP.

Doreen Designs

Doreen Sharabati, Owner

Fort Lauderdale , Fla.

Sharabati belongs to the Society of Gilders, SALI and The International Salon of Decorative Painters, an organization that is invitation only. Sharabati was invited in 2000, and she has belonged ever since. In 2007, she was one of the masters who participated in the Meeting of Masters. She counts working on a 400-year-old house in Damascus , Syria , as one of the greatest accomplishments in her career.

It's Not Wallpaper

Laura Stoyakevytch, Owner

Bakersville , N.C.

Stoyakevytch was published in North Carolina Home and Garden in December 2007. The company's specialty areas of service are faux finishes and decorative plaster. Memberships in PDRA, SLAI and TRACC.

Magic Brush Faux Finishes, Inc.

Kevin Glaz, President

Tampa , Fla.

Klaz's specialty is in faux finishes, a field where he has garnered impressive awards, including the 2007 grand award in the $1.5 to $2 million category for the Estuary of Mobley Bay. Several publications ( Tampa Tribune, St. Petersburg Times, Tampa Bay magazine, House Trends Magazine) have featured his work. He is certified and trained in several brands of Venetian plasters. Magic Brush Faux Finishes Inc. celebrates its 20th anniversary in 2008.

Miles Restorations

Miles Bowen, Owner

Bennington , Vt.

Miles Bowen is a member of NAPP. Bowen specializes in specialty finishes, distressed, faux, and plasters. Bowen also is involved in many volunteer projects.

Pine Street Studios, Inc.

Hugh A. Luck, President

Wenonah , N.J.

Luck has been operating Pine Street for more than 18 years and specializes in murals and trompe l'oeil faux finishes. In 2004, Luck received APC's Top Job honorable mention. He also executed a large scale mural for the Philadelphia Ronald MacDonald House.

Plain Jane Enterprises LLC

Mary Jane Suruda, Owner/Designer

Highlands , N.J.

Suruda's Plain Jane Enterprises has been in business for more than nine years. She is a member of AAPDC Monmouth County and the New Jersey Association of Women Business Owners. She was featured on the cover and in a feature article of the August/September 2006 edition of NU Design magazine.

Wall Decor Inc.

Stacy Healy, Owner

Morganville , N.J.

Healy's Wall Decor Inc. has been in business for more than 16 years. Before starting decorative painting, Healy was a fine artist and photographer. In addition to faux painting, she now creates unique wall artwork. Wall Décor has painted two murals in a local elementary school. Healy volunteer teaches art at a local elementary school and she has painted for Habitat for Humanity.

DIFFERENT FONT: COMMERCIAL PAINTERS

APlus Painting LLC

Jeffrey Yatooma, President

Walled Lake , Mich.

"We have painted several 200,000 square-foot box stores (Wal-Mart, Sam's Club, Kohl's, Office Depot and others) throughout the Midwest ,” Yatooma said. He is a member of the Better Business Bureau. Painting, paperhanging, specialty coating–APlus Painting offers a variety of professional services. It celebrates its 10th year anniversary in 2008.

Barto Decorating

Al Barto, Owner

Wooster , Ohio

Twenty-eight years of experience and nine dedicated full-time employees has allowed Barto Decorating to enjoy some major accomplishments: "From 100-year-old brick walls, we removed 14,000 lbs. of paint at the College of Wooster 's Severance Building during its interior renovation. We did that in a manner that was environmentally friendly and did not harm the brick, mortar and wood surfaces,” Barto said. Barto Decorating is a major supporter of the Muscular Dystrophy Association in Stark County and have been so for many years.

Fresh Paint, Inc.

Giacomo Baglio, General Manager

St. Paul , Minn.

"My job entails running about five to eight jobs in progress from concept to completion,” Baglio said. “Over the past 23 years we have pleased all of our clients because of our ability to go that extra mile." This company handles commercial and industrial as well as high-end residences and prides itself on its ability to start, run and complete some of the industry's most difficult projects.

FS Armitage Sons, Inc.

Kay Armitage, President

West Jordan , Utah

"We specialize in fast-track projects that require excellent craftsmanship and deadlines,” Armitage said. This includes Ritz-Carltons, Four Seasons and other hotels. Armitage is a member of the Painting and Decorators Association of America and the Associated General Contractors.

Goodman Decorating Company

Leonard Diamond, Chairman Emeritus

Atlanta

Diamond is a member of many associations, including Painting and Decorators Association of America, Associated General Contractors, ABC and the CEFGA. He has also won the Georgia Specialty Contractors Award, the United Way Leadership Award and multiple AGC safety certifications.

JW Graham, Inc.

Peter Vitello, President

Holbrook , Mass.

"We are primarily a church painting company, and we face constant challenges with church logistics (masses, services, funerals, and traffic, as well as height issues, scaffolding, lifts, etc.) We deal with restoring murals, gold leaf, stenciling, natural wood restoration of pews." The year 2007 saw an approximate revenue of $1 million.

McCann's Finish Painting, Co.

Kevin McCann, Owner/Estimator

East Hampstead , N.H.

McCann said, "My biggest job to date was a complete prep, prime and paint of a 270-room elder hospice facility. I was not sure that we could handle it, but we prevailed because we are experienced, and we were determined. We finished before deadline and under the budget. I was proud of my workers and our management for a job well done!"

National Coatings, Inc.

Patrick Burden, CEO

Traverse City , Mich.

“We specialize in large painting projects, ones that fall in the $1-$3 million range,” Burden said. These include casinos, stadiums and large condominium projects. In business for eleven years, National Coatings employs 137 workers. Membership in PDCA and AGC.

National Decorating Service

Alex Hart, Partner

Oak Brook , Ill.

The recipient of several awards, National Decorating Service specializes in wall covering, exteriors and historic renovation. Several clients are in the hospitality industry. The company has been in business for 87 years, and one of its more challenging projects was working on a submarine at the Museum of Science and Industry. The project involved a restricted environment, and surface prep and execution within a tight timeframe.

Pacific Construction Systems

Ron Towers , Estimator/Manager

Bellevue , Wash.

Ron Towers is a member of the Painting and Decorators Association of America, NWCB, CFMA and ASA. He served as secretary to the SKC PDCA chapter in 2005 and president in 2007. Pacific Construction Systems specializes in metal framing, drywall, plaster and coatings. This 44-year-old business employs more than 350 full-time workers and made approximately $80 million in revenue for 2007.

Porto Painting & Decorating, Inc.

Richard Porto, President

Bridgeport , Conn.

Richard "Rick" Porto is a past president of the Painting and Decorating Contractors of America, Bridgeport Chapter. Porto is a member of the Society for Protective Coatings, The Bridgeport Regional Business Council and the Building Trades Association. Awards include first place in the Picture It Painted Professionally, commercial division. "The largest challenge that I seem to be facing in all my years in business is competing with companies that go into our field with a lack of experience and a lack of training."

Pro-Paint Plus, Inc.

Thomas Marsocci, Vice President

North Kingstown , R.I.

Pro-Paint Plus provides residential, commercial and industrial coating services. Memberships include the Remodelers Council and the Chamber of Commerce. “We have worked on community service projects for Habitat for Humanity, as well as local education jobs,” Marcossi said.

Pro-tex, Inc.

Tamas Hollo, P.M.

Sterling , Va.

Pro-tex is a commercial and industrial painting contractor that has been in business since 1989. Its portfolio features national clients such as Sears, Exxon and Wal-Mart.

Steve's Painting & Decorating, Inc.

Steve E. Williams, President

Silt, Colo.

Williams is a member of the Painting and Decorators Association of America and for the past two years he has been awarded for meritorious service. He also has been an honored professional in the nationwide register Who's Who in Executive and Businesses.

Stried Painting Inc.

Jim Stried, President

Grayslake , Ill.

Stried is a member of the Painting and Decorating Contractors of America and the GLMV Chamber of Commerce. His company employs 15 full-time workers and specializes in commercial, residential and industrial painting. Services and supplies were donated to Walk for Cystic Fibrosis, Lake County 's A Safe Place Crisis Center , the Neal Math and Science Academy and the Health Reach Clinic.

Thesis Painting, Inc.

Angelo P. Spyridakis, President

Springfield , Va.

Spyridakis is a member of ABC Virginia. Some awards he has received include the Safety Paragon Award and Miscellaneous General Best Quality in 2005 and the Subcontractor of the Year for ABC in 2005 and 2006.

Uni Pro Painting, Inc.

Steve Spinelli, President

Bedford , Ohio

Spinelli volunteered time and donated materials during the conversion of the Williams G. Mather steamship into a museum on the Cuyahoga River in Cleveland . "Although my involvement was limited it was a special project because my father's company painted her when she was still in service. My grandfather worked on her as chief fabricator for the Cleveland-Cliffs Co.” The soft economy has been a challenge "which we have met by looking for new markets to pursue. Our focus is on establishing relationships in the private sector." Member of Painting and Decorators Association of America and COSE.

Young's Painting Co., Inc.

Todd Young, President

Uniontown , Ohio

A member of NARI and the Green Chamber of Commerce, one of the biggest challenges Young has faced was repainting the interiors and exteriors of several banks in the area. This meant “a lot of weekend and evening work due to weather, customer traffic, etc.,” he said. “The jobs were done in a timely manner, and the maintenance manager gave us referrals that led to several more jobs." Young's Painting specializes in interior and exterior residential and commercial repaints, as well as insurance repair work.

PAERHANGERS

BND Paperhanging, Inc.

William O'Leary, President

Wantagh , N.Y.

O'Leary's residential and commercial wallcovering business has completed high-end work in New York City and the North Shore of Long Island. He said such work "brings on great challenges with huge rewards once the project is completed." Two of his many outstanding accomplishments include the mural that decorates the Disney Store in Manhattan , and an 80-foot long by 12-foot high mural in Long Island 's Roosevelt Field Shopping Mall. O'Leary is a member of the National Guild of Professional Paperhangers and Local Union 1486 (retired).

Bond Professional Wallcovering

Brian H. Bond, Owner

Bronx , N.Y.

Brian Bond has been the sole-proprietor of Bond Professional Wallcovering for more than 25 years. He is a member of the National Guild of Professional Paperhangers and the Westchester Chapter of NGPP. He has received a certificate of appreciation for charity work, certificates of participation in metropolitan workshops and NGPP national conventions.

Conner Wallcovering Inc.

K.L. Conner, Owner

Bogart , Ga.

KL Conner said he has been in the business for 18 years and he is “a fourth-generation paperhanger.” Conner has completed projects from southern Florida to New Mexico . He also serves as the current president of the Atlanta chapter of the National Guild of Professional Paperhangers.

Custom Wallpapering & Painting, Inc.

John H. Keane, Owner

Burlington , N.J.

Keane is a member of the Painting and Decorators Association of America and the Building Trade Association. He was featured in the February 1998 issue of Home magazine.

Deco Rada Wallpaper Installation

Alan S. Rada, Owner

Brooklyn , N.Y.

Alan Rada's wallpaper and mural installation firm offers acrylic and paperback fabric installations. He said he has leaned heavily on the company's credentials as a certified paperhanger to meet new designers and architects. "Our industry has seen a great deal of new wallpapers made of glass, mother-of-pearl and more, all demanding special care and handling. Through continued education, workshops and seminars we remain knowledgeable and qualified to handle these new handmade papers." Rada was asked to chair the certification committee for the National Guild of Professional Paperhangers in 2007.

Homeside Building Corp.

White Plains , N.Y.

Mary Farrell, Owner

Farrell won the Zinsser Winning Walls with Wallpaper honorable mention in 2006. She participated in the planning phase and the painting of the exterior mural for the White Plains New York Beautification Foundation. She also has been active in projects for Habitat for Humanity in the New York metropolitan area since 2004. In 2007, she took part in a rehabilitation and wall-covering project in New Orleans , Louisiana .

James Wallcovering

James A. Grumbley, Owner

Glendale , Calif.

Grumbley is a member of the National Guild of Professional Paperhangers. Grumbley and his company installed wall coverings in the Shriners Children's Hospital as well as various projects with the Los Angeles Chapter of the NGPP.

Kuhn Wall Covering

Charles Kuhn, Owner

Baltimore

Kuhn's experience in the painting business goes back 45 years. He is a member of the industry organization, National Guild of Professional Paperhangers.

Off the Wallcovering, Inc.

Larry Cohen, Vice President and Partner

New York , N.Y.

"We have wallpapered hotels, schools and high-end commercial and residential projects,” Cohen said. “We are recommended by many manufacturers of specialty wallcoverings and hand-made materials.” Off the Wallcovering staff have given demonstrations at trade shows and manufacturers' sites for other paperhangers and designers. They will give a demonstration at the upcoming Architectural Digest Show. “We work for lots of celebrities and athletes, and we have completed two installations for 'Extreme Makeover,' one in New Jersey and another in Queens ," Coehn said. The company is a member of the National Professional Paperhanging Guild.

Paper Craft Interiors

Steven N. Kaye, Owner

Algonquin, Ill.

Kaye has 30 years of experience as a wallpaper installer. He is a member of the National Guild of Professional Paperhangers and the president of its Chicago chapter, where he has led the chapter in receiving five Plumb Line awards. In 2005, he was honored by the NGPP with the first place award for residential installation, and the second place award for commercial installation in their national Winning Walls with Wallcoverings Competition .

Reeves Paperhanging Inc.

James T. Reeves, President

Glendale , Ariz

Reeves is a member of the National Guild of Professional Paperhangers, the American Society of Interior Designers (Industry Partner), and Painting and Decorators Association of America. Reeves Paperhanging was involved in the installation of the wall covering in the Neo-Natal Care Center at Phoenix Children's Hospital.

The Best Paperhanger

Jim Reppert, C.P., Owner

Santa Ana , Calif.

Reppert is a National Guild of Professional Paperhangers member, the secretary of the NGPP Los Angeles Chapter, an NGPP Certified Paperhanger and an American Society of Interior Designers Industry Partner. He also is a Weathered Stone certified installer, a Maya Romanoff certified installer and a Stoney Brook approved installer.

Time for a Change, Inc.

Vincent LaRusso, President

Brewster , N.Y.

LaRusso said, "Our chapter received the Golden plumb line award for best chapter in St. Louis at the NGPP convention in 2006. As our president, it was a great honor!” LaRusso added that his NGPP chapter worked on 'Extreme Makeover Home Edition ' in June of 2007. “What a great experience to be a part of something that made a difference in peoples lives!" He has aspirations to teach those do-it-yourself folks that wallpapering is neither simple or easy. "I would love to see the wallcovering installer looked at as a professional and not as a hobbyist. The consumer/homeowner is not educated enough about our trade; from their point of view anybody can hang wallpaper. So they think! We need to educate our public on using a professional for all projects."

Two Bag Ladies

Ginny Patterson and Mary Daniel, Owners

Horseshoe Bay , Texas

Patterson and Daniel have a great interest in the torn paper technique and both have artistic backgrounds. Daniel is a potter and Patterson is a decorative painter.

Wallpaper Concepts

Thomas J. Westley, Owner

Chicago , Ill.

Westley is a member of the National Guild of Professional Paperhangers and has been in business for more than 23 years. For more than two decades, Wallpaper Concepts has completed the home decorating visions of more than a thousand homeowners in and around the North Shore area. “As the owner, my goal is to increase the number of homes and satisfied customers. I am a member of the National Guild of Professional Paperhangers and I attend monthly training seminars. I offer a full range of services, including interior painting, wallpaper removal, staining, faux finishing and varnishing. I believe knowledge, experience, professionalism, cleanliness, honesty and trust are necessary to succeed in business.”

Wall to Wall Paperhangers

Nancy Proctor, Owner

Naperville , Ill.

Nancy Proctor specializes in wallpaper installation, and she has spent 19 years in the business. She is a member of the National Guild of Professional Paperhangers. Using her many years of experience, Proctor has been able to contribute to several worthy community service projects, including the Ronald McDonald House in Chicago and relief for residents in New Orleans who suffered the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina.

William Houck, Inc.

Kimberly Hooks, Treasurer

Wilmington , Del.

William Houck Inc. is a contracting company that is celebrating its 15th business anniversary this year. In the past, the majority of the business centered on residential projects (70 percent), and the other 30 percent of its business was commercial. The company is pleased that those figures have changed recently. Now 60 percent of its jobs are commercial and 40 percent are residential. William Houck Inc. is a member of the Better Business Bureau and the National Guild of Paperhangers. Citibank gave the company a Citibank Achievement Award.

MANUFACTURER/VENDOR

Benjamin Moore & Company

Frank Magdits, Training and Development Manager

Montvale , N.J.

Magdits has been in the industry for 30 years and he is a member of the American Society for Training and Development, the Federation of Societies for Coatings Technology, the Society for Protective Coatings Technology and the Painting and Decorating Contractors of America.

Colori-Chicago

Michelle Quaranta, President

Chicago

Michelle Quaranta has been referred to as the “ninety-pound neighborhood color therapist,” and it's easy to see why. She is a hip dynamo who assists in matching colors to her clientele's personality. The boutique's two main brands are C2 Paint and YOLO. The boutique has been described as a “candy store” for aesthetically minded customers. She often makes house calls, visiting clients in their homes and businesses, to provide custom color consultations. Quaranta is committed to “green” practices, both in the eco and the visual sense: Colori offers C2's “Cucumber,” “Sage,” and “Ka-ching,” (think dollar bills). An environmentally friendly business that is healthy environment and healthier home.

Easy Estimator, LLC

Tom Golibart, CEO/Founder

Clinton Township , Mich.

In 2007, Easy Estimator LLC introduced phase one of its Web site, mypaintbid.com. The site is a place for consumers to develop a budgetary estimate for their interior residential painting projects by using the “Quick Estimator” tool. The launch of phase two is slated for 2008, which will invite professionals to the site. “I hope to change the way painting contractors educate their customers, thereby making them better informed consumers,” Golibart said. “Budgeting is as important as preparation for a successful painting project.”

Graco, Inc.

David Newman, Worldwide Channel Marketing Manager

Rogers , Minn.

Newman has been in the industry for eight years and is a member of the Painting and Decorators Association of America and ARA. Community service projects that the company is involved in include Graco/United Way Paint-A-Thon and Habitat for Humanity.

Inspired Technologies, Inc.

David Wagner, President

Le Sueur , Minn.

The 2007 “Best of What's New” feature in Popular Science magazine included Frog Tape in the Home Technology category. “Frog Tape is the only patented masking tape in the United States ,” Wagner is happy to point out. Awards include Retailers Choice Awards for maskers (2002, 2003, 2004). Community service includes sponsoring HGTV's “Change the World, Start at Home” campaign through “Rebuilding Together Twin Cities.”

Modern Masters, Inc.

Jim Rogers II, General Manager and Vice President

Sun Valley , Calif.

Rogers has been in the paint industry for 28 years and is a member of Paint and Decoration Retailers Association, Color Marketing Group, SALI, American Society of Interior Designers, Painting and Decorators Association of America, NPCA and IAAPA. The company formulates high performance and environmentally friendly decorative paint products.

Mountain Paint Center

Jerry Howell, Owner

Show Low, Ariz.

Howell serves as vice president of the local Chamber of Commerce, and he serves on the board of Character First. “I am involved in the industry as a field painter, painting contractor, Painting and Decorators Association of America staff, and I am now the owner of a retail paint store.” Member of the Paint Decorating Retailers Association and winner of the PDCA Distinguished Services award. Mountain Paint has served the community since 1995. Howell also serves as the senior editor of American Painting Contractor .

Mr. Long Arm Inc.

Robert Newman, Chief Executive Officer

Greenwood , Mo.

Newman has been in the paint industry for more than 50 years and is a member of the Painting and Decorators Association of America, NAM , ABMA, AHMA and CBMA. The company introduced telescoping extension poles to the industry via Specialty Products in 1958. The second generation of the Newman family is now actively involved in management.

Proform Technologies, Inc.

Jon Cox, President

Riverton , Wyo.

Proform Technologies is a small business, Cox explained. However, it “has had a very visible impact on the applicator market.” In 1999, they introduced an ergonomic paintbrush, “a welcome innovation to the expanding do-it-yourself home improvement and decorating market,” Cox said. “This patented design influenced current designs now on the market.” Proform also has expanded into the contractor market by offering professional wooden-handle brushes. New handle designs are always being considered and tested. Member of NFIB.

Rohm and Haas Paint Quality Institute

Debbie Zimmer, PQI Director of Communications

Springhouse, Pa.

As director of PQI Communications and Media Relations in North America , Zimmer is on the cutting edge of the latest interior painting trends, such as color, decorative techniques, gloss levels and quality issues. She combines her knowledge of paint chemistry and her talent for decorating to educate homeowners on the how and why to use quality paints and coatings when decorating the interior of their homes. As part of the Paint Quality Institute's public information program, Zimmer travels the country appearing on television and conducting seminars for magazine editors, newspaper feature writers and professional painters.

Roman Decorating Products

Gerald Russo, President

Calumet City , Ill.

In 1992, Russo entered a “disjointed business world that could be improved if it communicated better.” He formed connections between various sectors (manufacturing, distribution and paste companies, and the hangers) who previously did not talk to each other. “This year the WA and the National Guild of Professional Paperhangers will have interlocking meetings. I have worked very hard to get the factions to work together for the benefit of the industry.” Community service includes working with the NGPP in New Orleans on the homes of police officers so they could move back to their neighborhood. Russo has received the Allman Award from the WA, the Skip Lewis Memorial Award from NGPA and a Paint and Decoration Retailers Association Industry award.

Spray Nine Corporation

Laurie Fischer, Account Manager

Johnstown , N.Y.

Spray Nine has specialized in cleaning compounds for 51 years. It is known for its superior products used by busy people all over the world, Fischer said. It also recently launched the environmentally friendly Green Marine Multipurpose Cleaner. The company is a member of the Small Business Council of New York and the Fulton County Chamber of Commerce.

United Gilsomite Laboratories

Michele Margotta Neary, Public Relations Director

Dunmore , Pa.

Ms. Neary is a member of Home Improvement Research Institute, the National Paint and Coating Association and the Paint and Decoration Retailers Association. She has involved herself in community service projects on behalf of the United Way , Junior Achievement, Voluntary Action Center and Girl Scouts.

Wagner Spray Tech

Steve Machacek, E-Marketing and Public Relations Manager

Plymouth , Minn.

In his role as a leader in the industry, a highlight of Machacek's experiences has been developing the Power Texture Sprayer hand-held unit. He has received multiple awards, including a bronze award for his public relations activity. He has contributed to the St. Paul , Minn. , Wipe Out Graffiti Program, Toys for Tots, the Twin Cities Rebuilding Together organization and Paint-a-thon.

WV Paint and Decorating Center, Inc.

Carmen Estepp, President

Beckley , W.Va.

Estepp established herself in a specialized market, and her business took off. “I became a licensed paint and wallpaper contractor for an all-female crew in 1982. My business grew rapidly because of my dedication to detail and personal service,” she said. In 1990, she opened a retail paint, sundries, wallpaper and window treatment store. “I stay on the cutting edge of design trends to offer my customers.” Estepp has a faux finish certificate from the School of Italian Plaster and Paint and Decorating Retailers Association. She was featured in the May 2007 issue of Paint and Decorating Retailer magazine and is a member of Faux Finishers Club, the Chamber of Commerce and National Homebuilders Association.

Zinsser Co., Inc.

Tom McNicholas, General Manager, Vice President of Marketing

Somerset , N.J.