Masonry Magazine April 1994 Page. 52
By GENE ADAMS, SPD, ASBPE, NADTP
Editor, Masonry Magazine
The Fat Lady Already Sang
T'S ALL OVER BUT THE SHOUTING, and the overwhelming consensus supports our feeling that the recently concluded MCAA Annual Conference and Masonry Expo '94 was the best ever. Measured not by attendance and number of exhibitors (which again both set new records), but by the most meaningful criteria possible-the buying disposition of those attending the exposition, and the "take it back home for practical use" value of the conference sessions. Almost without exception, the hundreds of exhibitors and contractor attendees we talked to expressed renewed optimism for the masonry industry and construction in general, and in their businesses in particular. The leaner and meaner method of doing business forced upon most firms in recent years, combined with the growing recognition of the necessity of total quality management, bodes well for both the short and long term future of the industry.
WE ALL OWE a resounding vote of thanks to the officers and working committee members of our various local, regional and national associations for the time and energy they devote to furthering the goals of the masonry industry. Ask anyone of these dedicated people why they give so generously of their time and effort and they'll respond almost to a man (or woman). "I feel that I should repay something of what the industry has given me." Without the dedication of these idealistic individuals, most associations would have to sharply curtail their efforts on behalf of their members because it would be impossible to cover the cost of hiring staff to do all the work they do. Take time to thank them whenever you see them. Better yet, join them.
ALL FORTY-ONE ENTRIES in three categories in Masonry Magazine's International Excellence in Masonry People's Choice Awards competition at Masonry Expo '94 were winners. Being a winner of a local, regional or national competition was an entry prerequisite, which explains why selecting winners from the winners was so difficult for attendees at the Expo, all of whom were eligible to vote for their favorites. Winners were announced and presented with plaques at a breakfast honoring them on Monday, February 28th, the last day of the Expo. Full details, along with color photos of all winning entries will appear in the next issue of Masonry Magazine.
ALTHOUGH GENERAL coverage of MCAA's Annual Conference and Masonry Expo '94 is included in this issue, additional material along with extensive photo coverage will appear in our next (May/June) issue. Gene Adams
52 MASONRY-MARCH/APRIL, 1994