December 2016: From the Editor

Words: Dan Kamys

It’s Been Real

Karen HickeyKaren D. Hickey, Editor - karen@lionhrtpub.com

This issue of Masonry is my last. A new editor, Dan Kamys, will take over the reins in January when the magazine passes from Lionheart’s to MCAA’s jurisdiction. Whether the topic is workforce development or the new silica rule or safety, I know Dan and the MCAA will continue fighting for the real concerns of your small businesses. Masonry was an entirely new field to me, and it was a pleasure getting acquainted with the issues as well as the people involved in this industry. Masons and mason contractors are indeed the passionate, hard-working people one would expect to find. To all of you who make this industry tick, I say thank you. I must thank two inspiring individuals who helped me immensely along my journey since the March 2016 issue of Masonry. First, I met Steven Fechino during my first week on the job at World of Concrete in February. An expert on moisture management, he can churn out a 1200-word article in a day, making it look easy! His contributions to both the magazine and this industry are certainly recognized, as he was recently inducted into the National Masonry Instructors Association Hall of Fame. Second, I met Brandon Hartsell at NCMCA’s annual meeting at the end of April. Motivated and enthusiastic, Brandon is always willing to help. He is now working diligently to bring more young people into masonry. I can only imagine how far he’ll go in the industry, as his passion is contagious! I encourage you to be an inspiration to others as these two gentlemen have been to me. It’s been a real pleasure and privilege to be a part of this great industry. Thank you, all!
Chemicals In Masonry
September 2026

Mason contractors must deal with chemicals on the job site. One of the main ones comes in the form of dust. Another is acid. From high-rise commercial structures to residential facades, masonry work involves handling raw materials that require careful man

Zach Everett
Safety Library
Safety
Read More
Brick Staining Dos and Don'ts: Managing Modern and Historic Masonry Construction
September 2026

Every mason contractor has encountered it, or will. A replacement brick arrives from a different production run. A cast stone repair patch or perhaps a darker panel stands out against the surrounding installation. Mortar color varies unexpectedly. A clea

Jennifer Gill
Technical Talks
Brick Staining Masonry Staining Staining
Read More
Gables Republic Square & Hotel ZaZa
September 2026

Gables Republic Square / Hotel ZaZa is a 24-story mixed-use boutique hotel and urban residential tower with street-level retail located on a 0.75-acre site in downtown Austin. Camarata Masonry Systems, Ltd. (CMS) was responsible for the supply and instal

Dawn Kornegay
Case Study
Brick Clay Brick Residential
Read More
The Utah Masonry Council's Masonry Education Day
September 2026

The 2026 Masonry Education Day at Interstate Brick in West Jordan is bringing together members of Utah’s architecture, engineering, and construction community for a day focused on education, technical understanding, and workforce development. The event r

Cassie Mejia
Industry News
Read More