July 2014: From the Editor

July 2014

Friends in High Places

Jennifer Morrell Editor jmorrell@lionhrtpub.com

After nearly seven years covering the masonry industry, and double that time covering real estate and development in the past, I fully understand that the industry can become a small world. I have gotten to know the movers and shakers in the masonry industry, along with countless others who touch our industry in various ways.

For instance, it’s nice to travel to Washington, D.C., and see familiar faces in the Halls of Congress. I have finally learned my way around the Senate and the House, and after our most recent Legislative Conference in May, I now know my way around the Capitol Building. Thanks to Rep. Reid Ribble (R-WI), all of the participants in this year’s South of 40 Convention in D.C., which was held in conjunction with the MCAA Legislative Conference, know a great deal more about the U.S. Capitol – including a room or two that were locked away from the general public. It’s just another example of the many benefits that come with involvement in the MCAA and the vibrant South of 40 group.

So, I’ll say again, if you didn’t attend this year, you should plan to in 2015. It’s beyond invigorating to know you actually are making a difference for your industry – the best industry in the world: masonry.

Gary Joyner of Joyner Masonry Works; Jennifer Morrell, editor of Masonry Magazine; and Lindsey Stringer of the Texas Masonry Council took in a Washington Nationals game to top off the South of 40 Convention in Washington, D.C.	Shown is a bricked garden area located near the Capitol Building in Washington, D.C., complete with fountains and incredible masonry work. The area was built for people to simply relax for a moment while at the U.S. Capitol.