Monolithic's 2007 Conference

by Freda Parker
March 5, 2007

On February 23-24, at the DFW Holiday Inn in Irving, Texas, Monolithic hosted its 13th annual conference, attended by 123 men and women from across the United States and Canada.

FEMA learns from Monolithic

At an after-lunch breakout session, those attendees, many of whom are or hope to be Monolithic Dome builders and owners, listened to Charles (Chuck) Gregg, Program Specialist, Mitigation Division, Hazard Identification and Risk Assessment Branch for FEMA Region VI, Denton, Texas.

While FEMA cannot endorse a specific structure type or construction process, Mr. Gregg said, "We (FEMA) would not be here unless we liked what you (Monolithic) are doing."

Mr. Gregg had attended Architect Rick Crandall's session earlier that morning, and about that he said, "I'm learning from you all."

With the help of a PowerPoint presentation, Mr. Gregg then outlined his responsibilities in the Mitigation Division and FEMA's increased efforts at risk assessing probable disasters that may affect our nation.

He said that Americans need to know the risks and that the future will bring more disasters, not less. While we can't prevent those disasters, with preparedness, we can mitigate the damage.

Currently, most Americans, Mr. Gregg noted, are complacent about natural disasters, but those attending the conference did not fall into that category. "You are not like that," he said. "You are ahead of everybody else."

Broker talks about earth-friendly loans

Connie Giffin, broker/owner of Mountain Classic Mortgages and president of Mountain Home Classics, Inc. presented "Earth-Friendly Financing 101."

Ms. Giffin said that her grandchildren have been her inspiration in promoting earth-friendly living environments and seeking financial sources that offer equivalent rates, terms and fees to conventionally built properties.

She explained her "Simple 1-2-3 Process" to mortgage approval for a non-conventional home.

The first step, she said, included making a commitment to a lifestyle change, beginning the financing process early, allowing time for it to work and being patient. Choosing a broker or lender with a proven track record follows. The final step consists of learning how an acceptable appraisal and good credit worthiness/financial strength equal an approved loan.

A variety of other presentations

Larry Byrne, VP, Monolithic, led two discussions. In "Dome Building 101," Larry presented the basics of Monolithic Dome construction, shape, planning and the process of achieving one's building goals.

Larry's "Dome Building 102" went beyond the basics, deeper into dome construction considerations, such as openings, rebar and concrete mix. He also talked about specific precautions to take when designing and constructing a Monolithic Dome.

Architects Rick and Eric Crandall of Crandall Design Group hosted "Design Guidelines." With illustrated examples of successful projects, this lecture focused on interior dome design principles for developing useful space within a round shape.

David B. South, President, Monolithic, talked about "Energy Efficiency & ERVs." Focusing on the thermal battery of the Monolithic Dome, David discussed what it takes to keep CO2 levels at the required boundaries and how ERVs improve air quality and energy efficiency.

During the MDI Advisory Board Meeting, David focused on the feasibility and benefits of Monolithic Dome rental units, managing a dome construction company, and the varied contents on Monolithic's website.

Andrew South of South Industries presented "Road to a Dome," during which he answered: What's involved in getting a Monolithic Dome Home before that first shovel of dirt is ever turned?

Andy also hosted "FAQs" and invited attendees to "bring your questions" on any aspect of dome construction.

Judy South, VP, Monolithic, in "Decorating a Dome," provided illustrated examples of dome homes. She discussed organization and decorating strategies that make the best use of space.

Gary Clark, VP, Monolithic, in "What I wish someone would have told me before I built my dome," discussed dome profiles, thermal battery, humidity, air control and multiple domes versus multi-storied domes.

In "Openings and Coatings," Gary's information centered on doors, windows and exterior coatings for domes, including what's hot and what's not.

Blaine Green, Division Manager, Monolithic, in "Evolution of Monolithic Equipment," showed the innovative equipment that has been designed, built and improved at Monolithic.

Michael South, VP, Monolithic, in "Success Stories," told about his 11 years of traveling with crews building Monolithic Domes. Mike used a gallery of illustrations, pinpointing the trials and triumphs of assorted projects.

Food for nourishment and food for thought

Friday concluded with a scrumptious dinner of steak and salmon, followed by a delicious cheesecake dessert and keynote speaker David B. South. David presented illustrations and insider information about Monolithic Domes built in places near and far. These included homes, schools, churches and bulk storage facilities in North and South America, Europe and Asia.

Touring

On Saturday, the conference moved to Italy, Texas for a chance to see and inspect two Monolithic Dome school gyms, several homes, Monolithic's offices and Bruco, the Airform factory.

177 Dome Park Place - Italy, TX 76651
Tel (972)483-7423 - Fax (972)483-6662
| Press Room