Granite Equity Invests in

Aeration Industries International

St. Cloud, Minnesota (December 31, 2010) – Granite Equity announced today that it has made a majority investment in Chaska, Minnesota based Aeration Industries International.  The investment marks the beginning of the phased succession plan for the family owners of the company.  Founded by the late Joseph Durda in 1974, the company is managed by his son, Dan Durda, daughter, Cheri Cohen, and grandson, Brian Cohen.  Granite will join the family as governance and ownership partners, assisting in further executive succession and development.  Dan, Cheri, and Brian Cohen, will all continue their executive roles in the business and retain ownership, as well.  Dan will continue in his role as the Chief Executive Officer and Brian will be promoted to the role of Chief Operating Officer.  Each will also remain on the company’s Board of Directors, with Dan Durda serving as the Board Chair. Green Holcomb and Fisher LLC acted as the exclusive financial advisor to Aeration Industries.

Dan Durda, commented that, “Over the past year we have interviewed several potential partners to help us plan an orderly succession plan for the family that would allow the company to continue to grow and prosper in Minnesota.  Ultimately, we chose Granite Equity because of their distinct focus on Minnesota and their long-term growth orientation.  They also bring significant resources and experiences in the water and wastewater industry given their DeZURIK investment.”

Larry Korf, DeZURIK‘s CEO, will be joining Aeration’s board as a representative of the Granite partnership.  Larry noted that, “Aeration Industries and its brands are among the most recognized in the international wastewater market.  The company has delivered  over 65,000 aerators in more than ninety two countries worldwide.  I look forward to the opportunity to serve the company and to continue its strong legacy.”

Rick Bauerly, a Partner with Granite Equity and representative on the Board, said that, “We are pleased that the Durda and Cohen family have chosen Granite as their partner, and we hope to continue their strong record of growth and innovation.”

As a world leading manufacturer of aeration equipment and systems Aeration Industries International solves a variety of water and wastewater treatment problems using state-of-the-art technology and more than thirty years of worldwide field experience.  The Company's product line includes customized oxidation ovals, package plants, surface aerators, mixers & systems to meet the strictest permit standards in the world. See www.aireo2.com

Granite Equity Partners is a private investment firm that governs and grows companies in Greater Minnesota.   As stewards, we create value for all stakeholders through our investing, financing, board governance, and management recruiting and development activities. See www.GraniteEquity.com.