Masonry Magazine December 1998 Page. 7
FROM THE PRESIDENT
hales, whales, whales...it seems that most every promotional brochure that we receive concerning the 1999 MCAA Conference and Masonry Expo has pictures of Shamu plastered all over it. You would think that we would all get tired of seeing all those whales. But if you are like most of the mason contractors, the closer the MCAA Conference and Expo comes, the greater our anticipation of experiencing arguably the best MCAA Conference ever.
The MCAA and its Board of Directors is excited about this year's events in Orlando. Unlike the last time we were in Orlando, this year, we have planned many events in the hottest tourist spots Orlando has to offer. Add to that the most exhibit space sold to date, and the best educational programs offered, and this year's Show in Orlando will exceed all of our expectations.
Kicking off the EXPO will be the MCAA Welcome Reception at Sea World, and you guessed it, a private show from Shamu. MCAA rented out Sea World for the evening for MCAA members, exhibitors and families. In fact, early indications reveal we have more families coming than ever before. Undoubtedly, our events at both Sea World and Universal Studios Florida will really be a family affair. In order to make the event at Sea World even more enjoyable for MCAA attendees who are bringing family members, the folks at Sea World will allow those who have registered for the Sea World reception to enter the park early. This way, families can spend time enjoying the exhibits before the reception kicks off. Children 3 and under are even free!
Orlando Offers Great Backdrop for Best Conference Ever!
Donald Larsen
President, Mason Contractors Association of America
In fact I have been told that Sea World has a new attraction called the "Journey To Atlantis" water roller coaster ride that you don't want to miss.
After the opening festivities at Sea World, our exhibits will open the following morning at the Orange County Convention Center. Here you will be able to visit the largest exhibition for mason contractors offered to date. Almost every MCAA exhibitor will be offering "show specials" for contractors to take advantage of. Plan to bring your company's orders for product and equipment to see how much you can save your company by placing those orders at the Show. In fact to date we have 15 new exhibitors who have never exhibited with Masonry Expo. So you won't want to miss spending every minute on the Show floor.
Never before have we offered such a strong line-up of educational programs. This year's program allows contractors to attend five of the eight offered events... more than in the past Shows. Building With The MSJC Code, Wall Bracing, What To Expect From The New International Building Code, Masonry Restoration, Scaffolding and The Competent Person, Prestressed Masonry Design and Construction, Subcontracts, and Turnover Turmoil are all hot topics for today's construction climate. You definitely can't miss attending these important educational seminars.
Wrapping-up our experience in Orlando will be the MCAA Farewell Banquet at Universal Studios Florida where once again, the MCAA rented out Universal for a gala evening for members, exhibitors and families. You will be able to enjoy a banquet on the New York Street back lot then spend the remainder of the evening enjoying the five best rides Universal Studios Florida has to offer. Back To the Future... The Ride®, Terminator 2: 3-D™, Twister Ride it OutSM, Kongfrontation, and Earthquake-The Big One are sure to end your stay in Orlando on an all time high.
If you haven't signed up to attend the MCAA Conference and Masonry Expo, do so today. Never before has the timing been right for you to invest in yourself and your key employees. There is no doubt that you will return to your company and the problems you face on a daily basis, refreshed, invigorated and rearmed with the knowledge to guarantee the success of your company and the masonry industry.
See you in Orlando