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CLEVELAND, OH -- The Marble Institute of America (MIA) is now accepting entries for its enhanced 2010 Pinnacle Awards competition. The MIA is proud to announce a new element in the judging criteria for the 2010 Pinnacle Awards competition. This year, judges will be evaluating sustainable design elements in addition to the traditional criteria of beauty, creativity, ingenuity, craftsmanship and suitability of materials. If a submitted project displays superior effort, innovation and execution towards sustainable building goals, the MIA would consider awarding its first MIA Pinnacle Award for Sustainable Design.

FAIRFIELD, CA -- Duracite Custom Countertops has been recognized by the Cal/OSHA Consultation Service for its innovative fabrication system, while implementing and maintaining an effective Injury and Illness Prevention Program (IIPP). Golden Gate recognition was developed to provide motivation and support to employers who proactively work with their employees and the Cal/OSHA Consultation Service.

The University of Ceramic Tile and Stone (UofCTS) is launching its newest online course, "Understanding the Basics of Natural Stone." It offers a comprehensive look at the stone industry -- from ancient uses and geology to quarrying, fabrication, installation and advice on how to win over customers.

CHANDLER, AZ -- The National Tile Contractors Association (NTCA), the largest tile contractors association in the world, gathered for four days at the Wild Horse Pass Resort in Chandler, AZ, for the 2010 NTCA annual winter meetings that kicked off on February 15.

OAXACA DE JUÁREZ, MEXICO -- Since March 2009, Alcalagres, a Tile of Spain branded manufacturer, has been involved in the development of one of the most significant projects in the city of Oaxaca de Juárez -- the capital city of the State of Oaxaca, in southern Mexico. Through the company's local representative, Porcer, Alcalagres has supplied an extensive amount of exterior porcelain cladding for the project Ciudad Judicial (meaning "Judiciary City") -- a project by the Government of the State of Oaxaca that has turned into the largest administrative infrastructure improvement initiative in the whole country. It is part of the city's urban development plan.

BOLOGNA, ITALY -- Because of last year's extraordinary success, Cersaie 2010 is repeating "Building Dwelling Thinking," the cultural event held in the Architecture Gallery that is both a meeting venue and an opportunity for discussion on key issues of building and materials. The International Exhibition of Ceramic Tiles and Bathroom Furnishings, which will be celebrating its 28th edition in Bologna, Italy, beginning on Tuesday, September 28, 2010, confirms its role as an important forum for the Italian and international design world.

CAMBRIDGE, MA -- The Spanish Ceramic Tile Manufacturers' Association (ASCER) will support a one-year research effort undertaken by the Harvard Graduate School of Design (GSD) called "Ceramic Futures." The project will explore the best ways to meet the increasing challenges of product customization, adjustment to buyers' preferences and sustainability in production.

Cosentino Group, a leader in the production and distribution of quartz and natural stone surfaces, opened a new factory and Cosentino Center in Vitória, Brazil, on February 25, 2010. The new Cosentino Latina Center in Vitória is the group's affiliate distributor for Brazil, and it will give personalized service and attention to stonemasons, fabricators, interior designers, architects and kitchen/bath professionals from the State of Espirito Santo in Brazil.

Robert J. Zavagno, Sr., passed away peacefully on March 6, 2010 at the age of 86. He was the President of The Cleveland Marble Mosaic Co., with offices in Cleveland, OH, Chicago, IL, and Los Angeles, CA.