April 2015: From The Editor

Words: Dan Kamys

Leave Your Mark in Washington

Headshot-Editor-J-MorrellJennifer Morrell Editor jmorrell@lionhrtpub.com

It’s right around the corner: The MCAA Legislative Conference in Washington, D.C., will happen May 12 – 14. I have attended this conference for many years, and I have seen firsthand the difference that an in-office visit to your Member of Congress can make. I have greatly enjoyed not only gaining a better understanding of how Washington works, but also doing it alongside my fellow industry members and leaders, whom I admire so much. Events will include a full day of activities coordinated by the MCAA South of 40 group, visits on The Hill, reception, networking and meals with our industry’s true difference makers. If you haven’t registered, do so today at www.masoncontractors.org/governmentaffairs/legislativeconference. pine-memorial-parkWe’d like to applaud Sanford, Fla.-based mason Jim “Stoneman” Doane on a job not only well done, but also quickly done. Jim was asked to build a memorial within a very tight two-week window for Deputy Sheriff Jonathan Scott Pine, who was shot and killed while responding to reports of car break-ins. A memorial was presented during an End of Watch ceremony for Deputy Pine’s family. Jim created a form, poured the concrete and installed all tile as well as a medallion. The tile was water-jet cut. We think he did a wonderful job for a wonderful cause. Return to Table of Contents
Four Home Design Trends Driving Masonry Demand in 2026
July 2026

As design trends continue to evolve, one theme remains consistent throughout 2026: homeowners want spaces that feel intentional, comfortable and enduring. According to Westlake Royal Building Products’ TrendLine platform, today's most influential trends e

Sarah Lograsso
MAP Partner
Sponsored
Read More
The Modern Masonry Saw: Safety, Efficiency, and Smarter Cutting
July 2026

Masonry is a craft built on precision, strength, and durability. At the heart of every successful masonry project is one essential tool: the masonry saw. As technology evolves, so does the role of the saw on the jobsite. Today’s contractors are not just l

Bryant Figueroa
Technical Talks
Read More
Getting the Finish Right on Burnished CMU
July 2026

The wall is complete. The lines are crisp. The coursing is tight, and the burnished CMU delivers exactly the refined appearance the design team envisioned. After weeks of coordination and careful installation, the project is final

Technical Talks
Read More
Argo Community High School Performing Arts Center
July 2026

Argo Community High School is located in Summit, Illinois, just southwest of Chicago’s Midway Airport. In 2016, the Argo Community High School Board of Education and the school’s administration undertook the construction of a new performing

John Cicciarelli
Case Study
Read More