Masonry Magazine February 2002 Page. 34
MAKING
GRADE
Student in the spotlight
Talk About a Quick Learner!
Simon Lira is pictured working on a recent residential project near his hometown of Harlingen, Texas.
In January 2001, Simon Lira enrolled in a masonry class at Harlingen High School, Harlingen, Texas. Four months later he was competing, and winning, the Texas State SkillsUSA masonry contest!
"He's a quick learner," says Victor Santillan, his instructor. Santillan ought to know. He has sponsored the Texas contestants in the national Skills-USA-VICA National Masonry Competition in six of the past ten years. "I admire his hard work and dedication," Santillan continued. "He's an honor roll student taking advanced classes and always makes a good effort."
Admittedly, Lira had a head start. His older brother, Jimmy, was the Texas State masonry contest winner in 1998 and competed in the national competition. Their father is self-employed in the construction industry, doing tape and float, and painting.
Interviewed at the National Masonry Contest at Bartle Hall in Kansas City, MO, this past summer, Lira said, "Mr. Santillan taught me that masonry can be fun, and he was the first to show the class how to do the work."
Now a high school senior, Lira hopes to compete in Kansas City again next summer.
If you would like additional information, or if you have an apprentice mason to nominate, contact J. David Holt, c/o Holt Marketing Group, 1906 Swift, North Kansas City, MO 64116 or fax information to (816)842-9989.