Exploring the Skies and Strengthening Bonds

“I am grateful beyond words for an incredible week at EAA AirVenture in Oshkosh, WI, with my dear friend Frank Donahue, the Owner and Regional Director of Best Tile. He was an amazing pilot and guide as he flew us in his Cirrus plane to the event. Several days camping in the North 40 was an unforgettable experience, a testament to the enduring power of friendship and shared passions. Here's to friendship, aviation adventures, and the remarkable connections that make life truly extraordinary.” – Ron Nash, LATICRETE President & COO North America

This event was a chance to strengthen the bond that has been cultivating since 1956, when the founders of LATICRETE, Dr. Henry M. Rothberg and wife, Lillian Rothberg (of blessed memory) were starting their fledgling company and met Harry and Mollie Marcus of Standard Tile (now Best Tile). Standard Tile was eager to support their endeavor and the partnership began. While Best Tile has been a cornerstone of quality tile products and exceptional customer service for years, our connection goes beyond business.

Best Tile, under Frank's leadership, has flourished in its commitment to delivering top-notch tile solutions to its customers. With multiple locations and a legacy that spans years, Best Tile has become a trusted name in the industry. Their dedication to excellence and innovation aligns seamlessly with the principles of LATICRETE, a brand committed to delivering quality and innovative solutions. 

What makes our partnership truly unique is sharing our passions on what makes us ‘tick’.  This year, Ron and Frank embarked on a memorable journey, flying in together on Frank's Cirrus plane and setting up camp amidst the bustling EAA AirVenture event. The experience of camping in the North 40, surrounded by fellow aviation enthusiasts, was a testament to the camaraderie that defines the aviation community.

"I discovered Ron's aviation passion in numerous conversations over the years and we hatched a plan to make the trip to Oshkosh a few years back but were unable to attend due to Covid. Last year, we were committed to making this happen, including flying in and camping for the total experience. Ron was an awesome co-pilot and a quick study in the cockpit but his skill set really took off when we hit the ground. 

His passion for airplanes, coupled with a like passion for photography collided in the most target-rich environment aviation has to offer and the results are stunning! I’m also glad that Ron had all that NOLS (National Outdoor Leadership School) training! While camping on an airfield might seem mundane, when those storms hit they bring unobstructed 40+ mile per hour winds, and battening down the hatches is a team effort!" – Frank Donahue

The shared passion doesn't stop with Ron and Frank. It extends to the next generation, exemplified by the presence of Dan Donahue, Frank's son. Dan, a Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) for helicopters, airplanes and gliders and a skilled aircraft mechanic, is not only contributing to the world of aviation education but is also restoring a 1947 Stinson Voyager, 108 plane with unwavering dedication. The sight of the vibrant yellow plane stands as a symbol of his commitment to preserving aviation history and passing on the love of flying to future generations.

The bond that has developed between Ron, Frank, and his son Dan is a testament to family and the deep-rooted connections that can develop through shared passions. It's a reminder that business relationships can evolve into something far more profound—a sense of kinship that transcends the conventional boundaries of professional interactions.

The journey at EAA AirVenture underscores the power of the promise that LATICRETE holds dear—Our Customers Are Our Family, and shared passions can forge lasting connections. It's not just about products; it's about the people behind them and the relationships they cultivate. The legacy of Best Tile and the commitment of LATICRETE converge within this shared experience, serving as a poignant reminder that authentic connections can thrive when given the chance.

As we reflect on the incredible week at EAA AirVenture, surrounded by the hum of engines and the awe-inspiring sights of aviation marvels, we're reminded that life's most meaningful experiences are often found in the company of those who share our passions. Our journey, characterized by father-son interactions, the thrill of flight, and the warmth of friendship, exemplifies the essence of the Brand Promises of LATICRETE. 

So, the next time you're at an industry event or forming partnerships, consider the potential for deeper connections. Look beyond the transactional and discover the shared passions that can transform relationships into something truly extraordinary. As Frank, Dan, and Ron have learned through their aviation adventure, the skies are not just a place for exploration; they're a canvas upon which lifelong connections are painted.

What is EAA AirVenture? 
The EAA AirVenture event, took place from July 23-28th, 2023 in Oshkosh, WI is a captivating celebration of aviation that brought together enthusiasts, pilots, and industry professionals from all corners of the globe.