January 2016: From The Editor Words: Dan KamysJanuary 2016 Yes, I Write About Bricks Jennifer Morrell , Editor - jmorrell@lionhrtpub.com It’s interesting: Although most of my friends and family are well aware that I am a writer and editor – and have been since 1994 – not everyone knows exactly what I do. So here’s a conversation that might ensue between me and, say, a friend I run into in my hometown during the holidays: Friend: “So, what are you doing now? Me: “I’m a magazine editor.” Friend: “Oh, really? What magazine?” Me: “It’s called ‘Masonry.’” Friend: “Oh, so you write about bricks?” Me: “Something like that…” Well, there’s a little more to it than writing about bricks, as we all know. “Masonry,” as a term, seems narrow: brick, block and stone, adhered with mortar to make a sturdy, beautiful structure. But we all know that our industry entails so much more. From lobbying on The Hill in D.C. for – and against – bills that greatly impact the masonry industry, to focusing largely on workforce development, certifications and education – it’s an industry with a broad range of issues to tackle daily. And, as we address concerns and needs in the masonry industry, mason contractors continue striving to work smarter and more efficiently, producing quality buildings that will withstand time and the elements (wind, for example). That being said, this issue of Masonry does have articles about bricks…and blocks, telehandlers and the sizzling-hot topic of BIM-M. You’ll also want to check out the MCAA Annual Convention Preview on pp. 80-81 of this issue. If you are able to attend the convention and, especially, MASONRY MADNESS day on Feb. 3, you’ll be so glad you did. Happy New Year from the team at Masonry Magazine! We wish you a prosperous and joyful 2016.