Cross Grain - April 2018

CROSS GRAIN
April 2018 Vol. 45 No. 4

ALVHEM

ARCHITECT: Greg Torchio
FIRM: Torchio Architects, Inc.
PRODUCTS USED: Ultimate Casement, Ultimate Swinging
French Door, Ultimate Sliding Patio Door, Direct Glaze Round Top

AWARDS OF EXCELLENCE

David McDonald — Regulatory Administration Dan Carpenter — Maintenance

David has gone above and beyond by step- Dan ensures quality with any task put in
ping into a leadership role on several NFRC front of him including finish carpentry, new
and EPA post-test validation procedures. He construction, remodeling, drywall, painting
has also volunteered to assist with advanced and window and door installation. A skilled
training efforts in Tours and Training and craftsman, Dan demonstrates professionalism
has tailored regulatory training materials to in all aspects of his work and has become
appropriately reflect where tour groups come the go-to person for his team due to his vast
from geographically to ensure that training sessions are most knowledge of construction and carpentry. His attention to detail,
impactful. David’s involvement in facilitating technology-based valuable skillset, and willingness to do whatever it takes to satisfy
work flow projects has aided in reducing costs and the profession- the customer are some of the many reasons why Dan is an asset
alism showcased in his work has led to stronger relationships both to the Maintenance crew.
internally and externally.
Chris Ratzlaff — Signature
Amanda Peterson — WUDH
Chris created a new custom product solution
With a strong attention to detail and commit- on a recent project to match historic existing
ment to our success, Amanda has increased product, making the process of installation
customer satisfaction by consistently pro- significantly easier for the contractor. His
ducing quality product. She helps wherever talent and creativity paired with his drive
needed and often volunteers to run more to think differently continues to push sales
difficult assemblies to free up other members upwards. He embodies the spirit of innova-
of her team so that production continues tion, consistently coming up with custom solutions for the most
to run smoothly. In her role as a work cell leader, she provides complicated windows and doors our company produces. Chris
information and support to her team, and is always willing to work accepts any challenge sent his way, and his work is highly accurate
through any difficulties. Her vast knowledge and experience in and completed on time.
numerous areas her department and her positive attitude make
her a true delight to work with.

What We Do Matters

Each interaction we have with our customers truly matters! Our dedication to delivering exceptional customer experiences is what sets
us apart from our competitors. When high quality products are paired with high quality service, we can’t lose. Recently an architect out of
Atlanta, GA, submitted the following message to Marvin about Technical Support Specialist, Adam Knebel:

“… I experienced wonderful customer service from Adam Knebel in the Technical Support division.
I had a very strange request for information that was needed for a customer’s new home. He called
to let me know he was working on it, and then found the obscure information I was looking for!
He was incredibly helpful, professional and fast. We regularly specify Marvin products in our office.
Your windows and doors are wonderful, and the people you have providing support contribute to
what makes Marvin the top-class organization it is! I simply wanted to say thank you, Adam!”

2 CROSS GRAIN – April 2018

Marvin Windows of Canada Visits Warroad

In February, Technical Service Represen- This event could not have taken place with one another, but also with the
tatives from Canada visited from across without the assistance of Eric Klein, Tours team in Warroad.
the border into Warroad for four days of and Training Instructor, who prepared
service training. a tailored training program that met the Sincerest thanks to the Tours and Training
needs of the Canadian Technical Service team for the warm welcome and providing
Dave Armitt, newly appointed leader of team, which came into the training with an unforgettable experience to our
the Canadian Technical Service team and varied levels of experience and knowl- neighbors to the North!
30-year veteran of MW-Canada, led edge of the craft.
the initiative to arrange a comprehensive
training event in Warroad in an effort to The four-day training session was a huge
ensure the staff remains current with the success, and the team had the opportunity
latest service knowledge and expertise. to not only build stronger relationships

Pictured from left to right: Dylan Arnold (Toronto), Pascal Bourassa (Montreal), Jacob Kuyvenhoven (Calgary), Dave Armitt
(Toronto), Attila Habany (Vancouver), Eric Klein (Warroad), Jason Bugala (Toronto), John Shrider (Halifax), Matt Bugala (Toronto),
and Chris Bradley (Montreal).

CROSS GRAIN – April 2018 3

Marvin Sponsors FIRST® Robotics
Regional Competition

This year, Marvin Windows and Doors and Jim Newenhouse, Director of R&D competition.” The Marvin team on hand
was a Leader in Technology sponsor from Integrity Fargo served as judges for that day located dealers nearest to where
of the FIRST® Robotics Great North the competition. Other volunteers from this individual calls home and sent him on
Regional Competition held March 1-3. In Warroad, Grafton, Integrity and Tecton his way with information needed to get
addition to this being the first year Marvin worked as safety, pit and machine shop him started on his quest for new windows!
has sponsored a regional competition, it advisors as well as crowd control and
was also the first time the event was held at volunteer coordinators while fulfilling other So why do we find such value in sponsor-
the Alerus Center in Grand Forks. jobs as needed. In total, 22 employees ing events and programs like this? As the
from our organization volunteered at the superintendent of schools for Greenbush
FIRST Robotics is very active in Northwest three-day competition. and Badger said in his remarks at the VIP
Minnesota, but the nearest regional luncheon, “Robotics takes kids from all
competitions have traditionally been As a Leader in Technology sponsor, skillsets and allows them to work towards
held in Duluth or Minneapolis. With an Marvin also hosted a company booth a collective goal. They are marketers,
additional event being held in our region staffed by human resources personnel, graphic artists, engineers, programmers,
this year, Marvin not only supported the which highlighted careers at Marvin, and more. Robotics levels the playing field
competition financially but also by pro- Integrity and Tecton while offering product and all rise up.” In other words, it helps
viding judges, volunteers and equipment information and swag for booth visitors. students to win, grow, and think differently.
for the Machine Shop utilized during the Parents, students and teachers from across
actual competition. the region expressed their gratitude of As you might have guessed, the Marvin
our sponsorship, with one parent noting, volunteers enthusiastically cheered for
Vern Tomford, Director of Engineering “I am replacing windows in my home, and the local robotics teams – especially Team
from Warroad, Brad Ruhland, Continuous now I’d like to use your brands because 2883 F.R.E.D from Warroad High School.
Improvement Manager from Grafton, of your involvement and support of this

4 CROSS GRAIN – April 2018

The Truth
About Window
Condensation

When temperatures drop and beads of
moisture or a thin layer of frost develops
on your windows, it’s easy to jump to
conclusions about the window’s quality
or effectiveness. If windows are meant to
keep the elements out of your home – why
do fluctuations in temperature cause water
to collect on your window panes?

The truth may be surprising. Condensa- Identify unexpected culprits. There Limit heavy window treatments and
tion is actually a sign that your windows are many surprising items in your home raise your shades when it’s coldest
are doing their job and holding heat inside that can contribute to excessive moisture outside. It may seem counterintuitive, but
of your home. High-performance win- in the air. Do you store unseasoned fire- heavy window drapes and blinds can trap
dows make the most of the sun’s heating wood inside? Do you have many indoor warm air against the cold glass, leading to
rays during cold months and maintain plants, especially on window sills? Do you more condensation than you would see if
a remarkable temperature difference have a large family? All of these factors the window was completely exposed to
between the indoor and outdoor panes of can mean a moister environment where the interior of the room.
glass. When this temperature difference condensation could occur.
increases and the humidity in your home Know your humidity levels. Testing the
reaches certain levels, windows and Be aware of bigger problems. relative humidity in your home is a simple
doors are the first place that conden- Groundwater seeping through the foun- way to understand why you might be see-
sation gathers. dation of your home can be a major cause ing moisture on your windows. The Better
of excess moisture. Ensure your home has Business Bureau advises maintaining a 25
As an employee of a window and door proper gutters, flashing and downspouts to 30-degree relative indoor humidity.
company, you may get asked about and make sure that water is being chan-
window condensation by acquaintances, neled away from your foundation. Dirt Your old windows weren’t “better,”
family or friends. Our resident expert, Lyle floor crawl spaces can also be a source of they were less energy efficient.
Kvarnlov, Product Services Manager, moisture and should be vented or covered Sometimes, after replacing older or
shares some insights into the surprising with plastic to create a vapor barrier. original windows with new ones, you
factors that can contribute to window might see more condensation than you
condensation and helps you answer some Consider the age of your home. remember seeing before. Does this mean
of those questions. Excessive moisture is certainly not a your original windows were simply better
symptom of older homes alone. Building quality? Not necessarily – it actually means
Never underestimate the power of materials like new wood, plaster and ce- that the insulation and weather-stripping
airflow. If there’s one takeaway for reduc- ment from a remodel or new construction in your older windows allowed the house
ing potential window condensation, it’s contain a great deal of moisture. When to breathe (more air in and out around the
making sure that the air is moving in your the heat is turned on for the first time, this window seal) and more easily exchange
home. Use fans to help promote circula- moisture will flow out into the air and settle drier air with more humid air. Today,
tion, and make sure that your bathrooms on your windows. windows and the houses they are placed
and kitchen are properly ventilated with in are more energy efficient, meaning that
exhaust fans that are vented to the outside. humid air can be more easily trapped
inside of a home.

CROSS GRAIN – April 2018 5

ANNOUNCING THE WINNERS OF THE EMPLOYEE ART + DESIGN SHOW

On March 7, our panel of celebrity judges to the show, “There is so much talent at A sincere thank you to all employees
completed their review of the more than The Marvin Companies! I was so greatly who submitted their works to the Art +
100 entries submitted to the Employee impressed by so much of the work that it Design Show. Your impressive work truly
Art + Design Show, and our Best in was really tough to choose from so many demonstrates how the creative outlets
Show and Notable Entry winners were beautiful submissions.” pursued outside of the workplace help
announced company-wide. to build a design-forward culture and
Michela Abrams, panel judge and former inspire the work we do each day at The
Panel judge Vern Yip, HGTV star and CEO of Dwell Magazine agreed, “What Marvin Companies.
owner of Vern Yip Designs, summed an amazingly talented team at Marvin! I
up the caliber of the works submitted was truly blown away!”

BEST IN SHOW

Kirk Gudmunsen - Warroad - Recipient of $500

NOTABLE ENTRIES

Joseph Fisher - Tecton Roanoke - Recipient of $250 Renee McGuire - Warroad - Recipient of $250

6 CROSS GRAIN – April 2018

All artwork submitted to the show was displayed at the Wm. S. Marvin Training & Visitors Center in Warroad through Wednesday, March 21.
Photos of all submitted entries, including digital submissions, are available for viewing via theSource.

CROSS GRAIN – April 2018 7

SERVICE ANNIVERSARY RECOGNITION

40 Years referred to Roger Maris Cancer Center Russell Lewis – Warehouse
and then the Mayo Clinic. He later learned
Robert Okerlund – Coatings that he had two types of cancer: thyroid Russell began his
and lymphoplasmacytic lymphoma. career at Marvin in
Robert first heard the XL and Prime line
about Marvin from Because Healthstat took the time to com- areas. Over the years,
one of his father’s plete those tests , he is now taking active he has spent time in
friends. In 1978, both steps and getting ahead of the diagnosis. many different depart-
he and his father Neil notes, “I’m so fortunate and apprecia- ments and now works
decided to drive up to tive that we have this affordable addition in Wood Processing as a Material Handler.
Warroad to check it to Marvin. I never realized how many He enjoys the diversity with the tasks he
out. Robert began his career at Marvin in people cared and how much support I is given. When asked who inspires him,
the North End working in Wood Process- would have until the day I came back from Russell credits his coworkers for teaching
ing. After 13 years, he moved to Coatings Rochester and was surrounded by a sea of him valuable information. His advice to his
where he has worked as a tailer on the neon green t-shirts purchased by cowork- coworkers would be, “Find something you
East and West lines for the past 27 years. ers to support my medical costs.” like to do and stick with it.”
His favorite part of the job is being able to
help get things done. Roger “Wojo” Wojciechowski – Elaine Edberg – WUDH
Displays
35 Years Elaine grew up
Wojo grew up in outside of Roseau,
Neil Cole – Ultimate Casement Greenbush, MN, and MN, and began her
came to Marvin look- career with Marvin
Neil began his career ing for employment. in the Glass Room,
with Marvin on March For the past 35 years, where she worked
19, 1983 in Stack & Wojo has worked as on washers, made
Strip with Jeff Hulst a painter in both the spacers for the glass, coordinated within
as his lead. After XL and Displays departments. He loves to the department, and worked on the GED
about six months, paint and having the opportunity to do that line. Elaine spent over 18 years in the
he was asked if he each day – along with teaching others – is Glass Room, and she currently works as a
would like to be a lead. Now 35 years his favorite aspect of the job. Glass Coordinator in WUDH, a role she
later, Neil is a Supervisor in Ultimate has held for about 17 years. She enjoys
Casement. Over time he has worked with Wojo’s best memory from Marvin was getting to meet different people while on
many wonderful people and has had the receiving the President’s Award in 2013, the job and loves getting all the products
opportunity to watch the company grow stating, “I accepted the award on behalf of loaded and sent off to customers. Elaine’s
into what it is today. my whole department because it was my advice for career success is, “Come in and
coworkers who made it possible for me to do your job to the best of your abilities.”
To Neil, one of the greatest additions to receive it.” To Wojo, receiving that honor
Marvin has been the implementation of was almost like earning a Master’s Degree. Michael Englund – Maintenance
the onsite clinic, Heallthstat. Recently, he He thanks Sam Johnson, Debbie Smitana,
scheduled an appointment at the clinic Bill Marvin, Ron Lund, Rick Mauer, Cindy Michael started his
thinking he was presenting with diabetic Gaddie, Larry Nyhus, Julie Herzog, career at Marvin with
symptoms. Rather than quickly complete Judy Acre and Sid Joslyn for impacting over three years in
that specific test, they recommended more his career and giving him guidance Clad Casemaster. He
comprehensive testing that would provide throughout the years. has since spent time in
more accurate results. As a result, some Maintenance, working
abnormalities were identified and Neil was with the tub grinders
as well as in waste management and
8 CROSS GRAIN – April 2018
Continued on page 9

CPG as an Amtech. For the last 31 years, Pat Williams – Wood Processing Charlene Olson – Ultimate
Michael has been working in break downs Casement
in Maintenance. In 2017, he received an Pat began his career
Award of Excellence. at Marvin working in Originally from Fosston,
Double Hung Frames. MN, Charlene began
Michael’s largest influences throughout Since then, he has her career with Marvin
his career have been Jon Fast and Vern worked in numerous in the Clad Casemaster
Horntvedt, who were both excellent departments, including department. For the last
mentors with a lot of knowledge. “Jon Winterseal, Round 16 years, she has been
trained me in Maintenance and taught the Tops, Shrinkwrap, and Clad DMC. a Department Senior in
value doing the job right the first time. Vern For the last 19 years, Pat has worked in CURCA Sash. Her favorite aspect of the
is incredibly experienced and possesses Wood Processing operating a Moulder. job is when she gets to work on the line
troubleshooting skills that can turn big jobs His favorite part of the job is working on with all the different people in her depart-
into small ones,” Michael notes. specials and getting new parts for his tasks. ment. Charlene’s advice to her coworkers
His best memory from Marvin has been is simple, “Work hard.”
30 Years profit sharing, noting, “When I first started,
we got that huge bonus. I wasn’t expecting Cary Olson – Maintenance
Terry George – Manufacturing that my first year of work.”
Administration Cary grew up in
Mike O’Loughlin – Round Tops Roseau and began at
Terry is originally Marvin in the Engi-
from western North Mike came to Warroad neering Group, where
Dakota, and moved with his family to he worked as a drafter
to Warroad when he pursue a career with for 27 years, helping
gained employment Marvin. He started in to design and procure
with Marvin in Round Round Tops, working equipment. For the last three years, he has
Tops. He worked there in the frame setup area. been the Construction Supervisor in Main-
for 18 years before moving to his current Over time, he’s worked tenance. He enjoys the action and variety
role as a Systems Analyst in Manufacturing in different roles in Round Tops, holding that comes from working with the Electri-
Administration, where he has worked for positions as Coordinator, Lead, and cal, Tool and Die, and Construction crews.
the last 12 years. Terry’s favorite part of Supervisor. For the last eight years, he has
the job is the opportunities he has been been working as Supervisor. Mike enjoys Larry Olson – Displays
given to work with teams from across the how dynamic the Round Tops department
organization, stating, “It is very interesting is, noting, “It allows me to manage different Originally from
to see how all our companies run produc- product types which sparks creativity to Larimore, ND, Larry
tion and the different ways they meet the develop new ideas within the department. came to Warroad
customer’s needs.” I really enjoy working with our work after seeing media
cell employees.” coverage on Marvin.
When Terry was dealing with cancer, Terry He began his career
received a card from all his coworkers Mike received an Employee of the Month on the Loading Dock.
and friends wishing him the best. He notes award in 1992 as well as an Award of Ex- He has worked in Displays for the last 12
that this is his fondest memory from his em- cellence in 2010. He thanks all his previous years, working on In-House Displays for
ployment with Marvin because it showed and current managers for helping him the Home and Garden shows, where he
the care and support from his friends and develop his skill set and knowledge, which enjoys meeting new people and getting
coworkers, which made a difference at that gave him the opportunity to be successful to work with our products. He cites Ron
time. He appreciates all the friends he has in his career. Mike encourages his team- Lund , Rick Mauer, and Larry Nyhus as key
made during his time at Marvin. mates to keep an open mind, be respectful influences, stating, “They were the first ones
and remember with every problem that I met when I came in and they left lasting
arises there is always a solution. impressions on me.”

CROSS GRAIN – April 2018 9

B e n e f i t s & We l l n e s s

HEALICS RESULTS WELLNESS INCENTIVE
Keep your primary care PROGRAM

physician involved Complete all wellness tasks by
September 1 to avoid
33 Inform your doctor of your Healics results. surcharges in 2019.

33 Bring your report to your next appointment. Wellness Screenings

• Basic Medical Screen & Report Delivery
(through Healics)

• Advanced Medical Screens (at your
doctor’s office)

Tobacco/Nicotine Free
(or in a Certified Quit Attempt)

FREEDOM FROM SMOKING EMPOWER RETIREMENT

There’s still time to join Watch your mail

A new 7-week class will be The Marvin Companies Profit Sharing and
held on Wednesdays from 401(k) Plan has begun the move from Wells

2:15-3:15 p.m. Fargo to Empower Retirement.
beginning on April 5.
Available at no cost to you. You will have full access to your account at
Call HR at 61-4222 Empower during the week of April 15.

to sign up today.

Please contact Human Resources at 61-4222 for more information!

10 CROSS GRAIN – April 2018

RETIREMENTS list, “Kermit Jensen knew I could make it
through thick and thin and made me laugh!
Candys Schuh – Wood Processing Greg Gustafson believed in me and en-
couraged me to work hard and get ahead
Candys grew up in Des Moines, IA, and in life. Thank you to Marie Hildebrandt for
started her career at Marvin in Double making me smile and to Mary Bourman
Hung Glazing and Assembly. She has for putting up with me!” As Candys’ career
also worked in Winterseal and Clad with Marvin comes to a close, she leaves
Casemaster. For the last 33 years, she has with the following words, “Work hard and
been working in Wood Processing as a it will reward you in the long run.”
sorter in salvage. Her favorite part of her
job is getting to sort with her coworker, Candys has a yellow cockatiel bird named
Mary, stating, “She has been there for me Gabe who is eight years old. In retirement,
on both my good and bad days.” From Candys plans on staying busy with
singing and sharing pot luck meals with learning more on quilting, playing bingo,
coworkers to receiving Dairy Queen traveling to Duluth, gardening in both her
treats for team efforts, Candys notes the mother’s and her own flower beds, and
times she has spent with coworkers as her doing some sewing.
best memory at Marvin.
his career in 1977 in XL, working in the largest impact. “He was a great manager
When asked who has made an impact painting area. Shorty has worked in many who helped answer a lot of my questions.”
on her life, Candys had a few people to departments, including Displays as a Shorty’s advice to his coworkers is, “Be
Lead, Round Tops, and most recently happy and don’t let life get you down. Take
Clarence “Shorty” Lichtsinn – in Ultimate Casement as a Department it one day at a time.”
Ultimate Casement Senior. He has enjoyed spending time with
Shorty grew up in Lake Benton, MN, and his coworkers and credits the people as Shorty is engaged to his fiancé, and he has
came up to Warroad with his father-in-law his favorite part of the job. When asked to three children and seven grandchildren. In
to apply for a job at Marvin. He began name his favorite memory from Marvin, retirement, Shorty plans to indulge in some
Shorty stated, “There are too many good of his hobbies, including fishing, gardening,
memories. I can’t just pick one!” and volunteering at his church.

Troy Neist, Shorty Lichtsinn and Yogi Koble Out of all of the advisors he has had
during his career, Ron Lund made the

CARD OF THANKS

Words cannot adequately express my gratitude for the tremendous
amount of support I felt the day I came back to work surrounded
by my coworkers in neon green t-shirts that read, “I roll for Neil the
Wheel!” So far, we’ve beat the thyroid cancer and will now take on
the lymphoplasmacytic lymphoma (LPL). The funds raised through
those t-shirts will be used to pay off my deductible and to purchase
gas cards.
Thank you Marvin and thank you to my team who are supporting and
encouraging me! Keep the positive vibes coming!

- Neil Cole

CROSS GRAIN – April 2018 11

Remembering Aunt Mimi

Long before the era of women’s liberation, and shine a light on it. She lit up every
Mimi lived as an independent career room she entered and filled it with great
woman. She graduated from Warroad energy,” Susan Marvin recalls.
High School in 1943, from Carleton
College in 1947, and spent five years in the Never shy, this “kid sister” carried a full
Marvin bookkeeping department. Mimi share of the Marvin spirit. Vivacious, en-
then moved to Minneapolis and became ergetic and loyal, we lost Mimi on Friday,
the head bookkeeper for Langford March 9, 2018 – her brother Tut’s birthday.
Electric and later, Midcontinent Theaters
and Communications until she retired.

Mary Evelyn [Mimi] Marvin was born on She doted on her 15 nieces and 12 Mimi at the 2017 Annual Meeting in Warroad.
April 14, 1925 to parents George Griffin nephews, introducing them to big-city
Marvin and Almina [Gibson] Marvin in diversions such as the symphony, art
Warroad, MN, where she spent her child- galleries, live theater, Minnesota Orches-
hood. Growing up with five older brothers tra, University of Minnesota Gopher
might tend to make a girl timid. Not so sporting events and the Minnesota
with Mimi Marvin. Like her oldest brother Vikings. She also cared deeply for her 61
Bill, she had a pioneering spirit, forging a great-nieces and nephews.
new path that others would later follow.
“She made each and every one of us feel
special. She could find that one attribute
that was interesting or unique about us

High School Graduation Photos Due May 11 Our Purpose

Do you have a high school graduate this year? If you would like to To enrich the spaces and places
share their accomplishment by having their photo included in the where we live and work.
Cross Grain, please submit the form along with a head shot photo
by May 11 to Annie O’Donnell in Technical Publications.

Photos can also be sent electronically to [email protected].
Print photograph submissions can be picked up after June 1.

Graduate’s Name__________________________________________________________ Published monthly for the employees of
School_______________________________________ City________________________ Marvin Windows and Doors
Father’s Name__________________________________ Department__________________ www.marvin.com
Mother’s Name_________________________________ Department___________________
Volume 45, No. 4 April 2018
Please Print
I have received permission from the photographer Emily Finley, Editor, ext. 622460
to allow Marvin to reproduce the attached/enclosed photograph in the Cross Grain. Sara Eidsmoe, Editor, ext. 4043
12 CROSS GRAIN – April 2018 Sydney Rosenau, Student Writer
Tim Bjerk, Photographer, ext. 1382
Annie O’Donnell, Layout, ext. 1373

Printed on recycled paper (10% post consumer fiber)