Getting Creative

Words: Bronzella Cleveland

Bronzella Cleveland, Editor - bcleveland@masonrymagazine.com

  It is official, it is barbecue season, and so how many have you hosted or been to? I have to say, I’m guilty of getting out of the house and grilling as much as I can because there is something about the smell of the grill, the fruit salads, and all the trimmings. Plus, the weather can’t be any better, who doesn’t love a cool breeze?  Dan and I always compare cooking notes, as I’m sure we have said once before. It is all about trying new things and getting creative with the dishes. The same can be said about the masonry industry, every day I see something new that pertains to masonry, the creativity and options are endless. We have about two months or so to get creative and try something new, be it on the grill or cooking or in your everyday life. But that’s enough talk from me about food and getting creative.   Let's jump into what you will find in this month’s issue. Following my note, you will find a contractor Q&A focusing on employee onboarding. Since that is such an essential part of the hiring process, we decided to talk with three contractors to get their opinions and experiences on the topic. Be sure to stop and read this informative article and if you have any topics or questions you would like answered, feel free to send them our way.   Our cover story focuses on historic mortar restoration while providing a look at an example case study featuring a historic building in Chicago, IL. Discover more about this process, it may all begin with a camera. You will also find our recap from this year’s Legislative Fly-In, so if you didn’t get to come out this year, be sure to check out the talking points and the tours that were taken while in Washington D.C.   There is a Technical Talk on brick efflorescence, a case study highlighting the restoration of Cincinnati’s Music Hall, an update on anchor bolt provisions in masonry code, a look at innovations in work wear, and a workforce development article focusing on the next steps to growing this industry’s workforce.   This issue is packed with tons of good stories for you to check out. As always, if there is something you would like to see in the magazine or if you have any questions feel free to reach out to me or Dan.   Until next time, get out there and be creative!  
Building the Future: NCMCA’s Success in Apprenticeship Across North Carolina
October 2026

THE PAST How the Groundwork Was Laid to Build the Future of Apprenticeship Across North Carolina My Registered Apprenticeship began in the early 90’s. I went back to the archives and dug out a few pictures of my apprenticeship pathway. In 1992, as an a

Brandy Shaver Ryan Shaver
Resources
Read More
Means and Methods: A Testimonial is More Than a Review
October 2026

A positive review can tell someone that a user is satisfied with the brand. A detailed testimonial can tell them why. When professionals speak about their experiences, they not only go into the features of the product but also focus on the challenges elim

Elsa Bueno
MAP Partner
Read More
MARSHALLTOWN Returns as a Silver Partner in 2027
October 2026

MAP Partner
MAP Partner
Read More
Ironsite Continues as a Cornerstone Partner into 2027
October 2026

The Mason Contractors Association of America (MCAA) is thrilled to announce that Ironsite will continue as a Cornerstone Partner into the 2027 Masonry Alliance Program.

MAP Partner
MAP Partner
Read More