Masonry Magazine July 2012 Page. 46
INDUSTRY NEWS
Council member Mitch Fuller, who cast the only dissenting vote, wanted even stronger residential construction standards-75 percent minimum for all new residential units, not just some. A University of Michigan study of masonry ordinances in four Illinois towns concluded that such ordinances result in: 1) higher overall property values, 2) growth in the tax base, lessening the tax burden on residents, 3) continued population and housing growth, and 4) no significant impact on affordability for either renters or buyers of housing.
2013 Masonry Veneer Design Awards Contest Opens for Submissions
The Masonry Veneer Manufacturers Association (MVMA) is accepting submissions into its annual Masonry Veneer Design Awards contest.
The judges are looking for entries that highlight innovative use and design, proper installation, and creative looks in masonry veneer, also known as manufactured stone veneer. In all, there are 10 award categories, ranging from new construction, residential and exterior through remodel, commercial and interior. A new "innovation" category has been added this year, which will award innovation in masonry veneer.
Winners will be announced at the MVMA Winter Meeting in Las Vegas during the 2013 International Builders Show. Each winner will receive a certificate and national recognition for his or her work.
All entries must be submitted online at www.MasonryVeneerDesignAwards.com by Nov. 11, 2012. An independent judging panel, made up of members of the American Institute of Building Design, will score the entries. There is no entry fee, and submissions require high-resolution images of the completed project. More information, including rules and entry requirements can be found at www.MasonryVeneer Design Awards.com.
Northern California USGBC Launches 'Best Building Challenge'
The U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) and USGBC's Northern Cali-
Non-Profit Agency Takes 'Brick' Road to Affordability, Market Appeal