December 5, 2023
Tulsa, OK- In the world of Mark Borst, a simple challenge turned into a passion project that resonates with the soul of innovation and pays tribute to the history of Solutions Through Innovative Technologies, Inc. Mark’s journey began with a bunch of cigar boxes and a casual directive from CEO and friend, Chuck Colon: “See what you can do with them.”
Upon receiving hundreds of empty cigar boxes, Mark began refurbishing – lining the interior of each cigar box with red felt and giving a fresh coat of stain to the wood exterior. With the boxes in prime condition, Mark dove into the vast world of the internet, where he found a thriving community of individuals who shared a love for building and playing cigar box guitars. Intrigued by the possibilities, he delved into crafting, fashioning six unique cigar box guitars.
A growing enchantment with this art form led Mark on a quest for unique cigar boxes that would add a touch of history to each creation. During a vacation with his wife, Mark stumbled upon an antique store in Tazewell, TN, where he unearthed a treasure – an old cigar box bearing the marks of time. With a white tag hinting at the 1940s or 50s, this box had a gratuity message, the name ‘Brixton,’ and a stamped signature of a city clerk.
Digging deeper, Mark uncovered the story of the city clerk, who served from 1882-1912, aligning with the golden age of this 120-year-old cigar box. Recognizing the historical significance, Mark shared the discovery with Brixton’s current CEO, who not only verified the authenticity of the cigar box but offered $1,500 to purchase it. Mark’s attachment to his craft and the unique story, however, led him to decline the generous offer.
Now showcased in the Tulsa Corporate Office, each box guitar bears a Solutions Through Innovative Technologies, Inc. company logo, recognizing each of the subsidiary companies held under its umbrella. A custom emblem created and designed by Mike Schara, can be found atop each box guitar, honoring STI-TEC’s CEO and leader, Chuck Colon (C2).
Running with a casual directive and a few online sources, Mark crafted discarded cigar boxes into timeless instruments that will forever reflect the power of innovation throughout STI-TEC. Coined “Mark’s Guitar’s,” this passion project echoes the very principle on which Solutions Through Innovative Technologies, Inc. was founded; leveraging knowledge and innovation to craft solutions for the most unique challenges.
