Masonry Magazine April 1993 Page. 11
The Council for Masonry Research (CMR) is an organization dedicated to conducting research for the advancement of the masonry industry. CMR has been involved with development of a masonry handbook, a masonry inspection guide, offers technical seminars, support of the National Concrete and Masonry Engineering Conference and the establishment of a disaster reconnaissance team to research the performance of masonry structures after extreme events occur. CMR is sponsored by MCAA along with National Concrete Masonry Association, Brick Institute of America, The Masonry Society, The Portland Cement Association and The National Lime Association.
Promotion
During the past year, we have been active in promoting greater cooperation with allied associations. Our officers have met with officers of other industry associations to discuss issues affecting this industry's future growth.
Masonry Expo continues to be a significant trade show, promoting the benefits of masonry as well as being a prime source for gaining information on new products, trends and innovations. We are proud to be one of the sponsors of Masonry Expo, which continues to be a unifying event focusing the industry's efforts toward competing more effectively against other construction industries, such as wood, dryvit, steel, and glass.
MCAA also helps in promoting such programs as the Professors' Workshop, which is an event dedicated toward educating college and university professors on the use of masonry, so that its importance in the academic curriculum is expanded. This is highly important because we need more young architects and engineers to gain awareness and to appreciate the versatility of masonry.
Looking Ahead
Much has been accomplished during the past year. A solid foundation has been laid to accomplish greater goals for the future. Relationships have been forged which hopefully will result in a more effective, more profitable industry.
Looking back, it's clear that we have made little progress on some of our goals and yet others have moved forward at a rapid pace. We have sought to protect ourselves from frightening new rules OSHA has handed down to us. And though we speak forcefully and with conviction, we will do so without the illusion that we have all the answers or that we are always right.
When we err, we will correct our mistakes. Those who disagree with us will find an open door and an open mind. We want to speak with an authoritative and respected voice, but we want to encourage other voices, too.
If I have one regret, it is that we haven't expressed gratitude often enough for all who take part in our association. Let me correct that now:
The real strength of MCAA lies in the willingness of its members to give their time and energies to a common task, particularly our officers. These officers give of their time to deal with a seemingly endless array of difficult problems.
Our staff, all of whom are important to the everyday operation of the association.
Finally, of course, the guidance and leadership of George Miller, who has led this association for forty-three years.
To all these people, we give our thanks for jobs well done.
My hope for the future is that through MCAA, we find ways to apply ingenuity to the new opportunities that will present themselves. These opportunities will exist; it's up to us to seize them.
I must also thank you for the many letters I have received, your calls, your attention and your support. And thanks for making this endeavor as your president so interesting that a year can fly by so quickly.