January 2016: From The Editor

Words: Dan KamysJanuary 2016

Yes, I Write About Bricks

Jennifer MorrellJennifer 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.
How I plan to live to 130
November 2026

While talking with one of our mechanics about the importance of changing the oil and keeping equipment greased, a thought occurred to me. These simple maintenance habits keep equipment running smoothly and help prevent breakdowns when you can least afford

Damian Lang
Contractor Tip of the Month
Read More
The Frustration Of Firefighting
November 2026

I find it fascinating what happens when an owner or executive leader walks into a struggling project. Morale picks up. Production improves. People communicate better. Meetings get sharper. Problems that have been sitting around for two weeks suddenly get

Corey Adams
Building More
Read More
Motivate With Money!
November 2026

I get asked about employee incentive and profit-sharing programs with every contractor I coach. Construction business owners seem to be looking for the magic bullet that will motivate their people to work harder and produce more. Some hope that providing

George Hedley
Business Building
Read More
Manufacturer Relationships
November 2026

As a contractor, the last person I wanted to see in my office was a salesman or a sales representative. Now that I better understand being a manufacturer, I see it in a different light. As a contractor, you can control the purchasing of material, understa

Steve Fechino
Fechino Files
Read More