Ohio Masonry Association news

Words: Josh NaragonIn April 2014, The Ohio Masonry Association (MCAA State Chapter) held its First Annual Masonry Industry Regional Meeting. Typically, the Ohio Masonry Association (OMA) holds its State Annual Meeting at this time, but the association board decided to expand the meeting to a Regional event.

A strong need and want from the masonry community to have regional events to provide education, training and networking has been expressed. The board invited Ohio, Indiana and Kentucky contractors, suppliers and manufacturers to the event, which drew more than 70 representatives from the three states.

The event was held at the Hollywood Casino in Columbus, Ohio. Suppliers and manufacturers were given the opportunity to set up booths and speak about their products.

Several educational meetings took place. Ray McVeigh with the PCA Great Lakes Region presented a current construction economic outlook. In 2013 U.S. cement shipments rose by 4.5 percent, and the projection for 2014 is to increase 8.1 percent. Fifty percent of that growth is expected to come from the residential market, along with 25 percent from non-residential (commercial) and 25 percent from public-governmental. McVeigh then reviewed the state outlook for Ohio, Indiana and Kentucky, individually.

Jim Tann, president of the Brick Institute of America Mid-East Region, discussed the activities of the BIA. These included Lunch and Learn seminars with the design community, onsite training, community planning and public relations.

Paul Oldham, secretary of the Mason Contractors Association of America (MCAA), discussed what the MCAA is doing for its members and the industry, including supporting changes to the proposed OSHA silica rule and the effort to create the CMU Check-Off Program.

Robert Thomas, president of the National Concrete Masonry Association, gave an update on the current status of the CMU Check-Off Program. He encouraged everyone in the industry to call his or her congressman or congresswoman in support of the HR1563/S429.

The OMA also celebrated 60 years of promotion. The day was followed by a reception/dinner. The association honored John Crawford, Gene Fuller, Larry Wilson, Richard Naragon, Bill Oberfield and Richard Matthews for their dedication to the industry, years of service and volunteer participation.

The Ohio Masonry Association plans to expand this event in the coming years with continued support from the NCMA, BIA and MCAA.
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