MCAA Midyear Meeting Safety Measures

Words: Jeff Buczkiewicz

The MCAA is excited to announce that the 2020 Midyear Meeting is a go. We are expecting a refreshing time for members to network safely and in accordance with CDC guidelines from September 13-17. For more information and to register, please visit midyear.masoncontractors.org.

As a result of several questions we've received, here is a list of safety protocols that the French Lick Resort is following: 

  1. Masks are required in public areas where social distancing can't be maintained. The MCAA will be providing custom masks to all attendees. 
  2. No buffets. All meals will be plated, unless a boxed option is available and appropriate. 
  3. No room drops.
  4. In-room dining is currently not an option, although this may change prior to our arrival. 
  5. Name badges will be handed out in a different, safer manner. 
  6. Attendee temperatures will be taken at check in and as needed throughout the day (similar to how it is done on jobsites). 
  7. Meetings will have no more than six people at each table, if those six have been traveling together or are family. Otherwise, four will be the maximum for each table to maintain six-foot social distancing. 
  8. Speed Dating will occur in a large venue conducive to social distancing. We will keep groups small and move people along relatively quickly. The touching part of Speed Dating will not be permitted. The venue will not accommodate more than 20 stations. We have eight companies confirmed with six strongly considering the event. 
  9. All meeting spaces will have hand sanitizing stations in back and other stations will be positioned throughout the resort. 
  10. Every guest will receive personal hand sanitizer at check in. 
  11. Shuttles are not permitted for large groups, and all events will take place on site. Public shuttles will be running, but limited on how many are allowed to ride at a time. Social distancing is required on the shuttles. 
  12. Every room and all contents within are sanitized after every event. Notepads and pens will be at the back of the meeting rooms for those who need them. They will not be reused. 
  13. People are not permitted to change seats once they have selected one during meetings. 
  14. All of our meeting space has been sized up to allow more room for proper social distancing. 
  15. We will not have lines during any of our functions. If lines begin to form, they will be quickly disbanded and people will be moved to make sure proper distance is maintained. 
  16. Attendees will be encouraged to not shake hands. At the MCAA office, we have taken on the traditional East Asian custom of bowing to one another when we meet. 
  17. Golfing, of course, is an ideal and fun way to social distance. We have two outings planned. 
  18. People will be reminded of COVID-19 signs and symptoms. If anyone experiences any of these signs of symptoms, they will be told not to attend any events. 
  19. All guest rooms are thoroughly sanitized between stays, and they currently do not clean rooms daily unless requested. 
Stone Veneer Mortar: More Than Meets The Eye

One of the greatest pleasures of being in the masonry industry is that we are the privileged few who never have to give up our Legos.

OSHA Releases Proposed Heat Injury and Illness Prevention Rule

On July 2, OSHA released its “Proposed Heat Injury and Illness Prevention Programs Rule” as a new, proposed standard to prevent heat illnesses and injury in indoor and outdoor settings.

Masonry In The Media - Bradbury Building, Palace of Fine Arts, The White House, and More

Completed in 1893 in downtown Los Angeles, the Bradbury Building showcases meticulous masonry work throughout its structure, blending various materials to create a stunning visual and tactile experience.

Marvelous Masonry - Soldier Field

Soldier Field, a Chicago landmark and one of the most iconic sports venues in the United States, demonstrates masonry's enduring strength and beauty. Opened in 1924, Soldier Field has undergone several renovations, but its original masonry work remains a