Seconding the cautious but optimistic outlook offered by equipment distributors meeting in Anaheim this month, Case Construction Equipment is casting its own vote of confidence. The Racine, Wis., manufacturer is planning a massive rollout of 27 new models in six categories. Case's move is "unprecedented in the industry as far as product introduction," claims Robert F. Killian, vice president in charge of sales and marketing for North America and Mexico. BIGGER IS BETTER New Case models are larger and reflect technology innovation. (Photo courtesy of Case) The rollout follows the 1999 merger of Case and London-based New Holland into CNH

ENGINE-DRIVEN WELDER More AC Generator Output The Ranger 250 welding machine is now available with an Onan OHV engine. With this new engine, the 250-amp, 100%-duty cycle rating of this machine has increased from 25V to 28V (at 40ûC). The overhead valve in the Onan engine also offers improved efficiency with 15% longer running time on a full tank of fuel as compared to the Onan side-valve engine. With a fully enclosed case, the 20.5-hp twin-cylinder engine is low in noise with 98.5 dBA sound power at full load. LINCOLN ELECTRIC CO.; 888/355-3213; www.lincolnelectric.com WOOD SHREDDER ATTACHMENT Mounts to 55

ALL-WHEEL STEER LOADER Two Steering Options This all-wheel steer loader with skid steer loader capabilities is the first loader of its kind to offer selectable steering modes from the dash board, the company says. Model A220 is equipped with two different steering options. The all-wheel steer mode minimizes the disturbance of ground and other surfaces and decreases wear on the tires. The skid steer mode allows operation in tight, confined areas. It also offers a two-speed travel option and a rated operating capacity of 2,200 lb. BOBCAT CO., A UNIT OF INGERSOLL-RAND CO.; 701/241-8756; www.bobcat.com CONCRETE REPAIR MORTARS Fast-Setting, Low

HIGHWAY CRASH CUSHIONS New Level of High-Speed Protection Company has received notification from the Federal Highway Administration that its new QuadGuard HS crash cushion has met test criteria for NCHRP performance at an increased impact speed of 70 mph. The HS system is the newest member added to the line. It is a nongating, redirective, nine-bay system that telescopes when hit head-on at speeds up to 70 mph, effectively dissipating the energy of impacting vehicles at angles of up to 20û. It is designed to shield hazards as narrow as 2 ft wide and is 60 to 70% reusable after

CONSTRUCTION ATTACHMENTS Quick Connector System Manufacturer offers a line of attachments for excavators and wheel loaders that includes breakout buckets, excavator 4-in-1 buckets and brush rakes. One of many attachments, the breakout bucket is available in heavy-duty and extreme service models. It features a deep bucket profile and a new recessed pin design that helps maintain bucket breakout force when used with quick couplers. The buckets are designed to work with all types of pin-grabbing couplers. KENCO CORP.; 724/238-3387; www.kencoattachments.com BREATHING APPARATUS Built-In Speaking Diaphragm Air-Mate 2000 is for workers who require respiratory protection in hazardous environments. It is NIOSH-approved

SAWS Enhanced Features Manufacturer has upgraded its existing models-FS1, FS2 and FS3SP-and added the all--new FS2SP, FS4SP and FS5SP series to its product line of concrete/asphalt saws. The FS2 series features a new frame design, an improved lifting bail as well as a low-profile water on/off valve. It has two multipositioning handle bars and a blade guard assembly with quick disconnect water manifold valves. The units are available with a standard 14-in. blade guard with Whiteman's misting water system for dust control when dry-cutting. The FS2SP self-propelled series includes the Eaton Model 7 hydrostatic transmission direct-drive propulsion system and a

click to purchase Grave Matters: A Journey Through The Modern Funeral Industry To A Natural Way Of Burial By Mark Harris Publisher: Scribner "Will We Need A Superfund To Clean Up Our Cemeteries?" could be another subtitle to this intriguing book. Mark Harris discusses the evolution of modern American funeral practices while extolling past and environmentally sensitive customs. A simple burial in a shroud or hand-made pine coffin, burial at sea, the home funeral, backyard burial and the emerging natural cemetery movement were and are intended to return a body naturally to the earth. But here's where it gets interesting.