December 2013 Table of Contents

Words: Dan KamysTable of Contents

FEATURES

Fireplaces & Chimneys Remodeling an indoor fireplace without replacing masonry really can be done, and the result can be natural, complex and permanent.

Building Envelopes & Wraps Knowing the Unknown: John H. Koester offers insights on the ‘Ostrich Syndrome.’ Scaffolding Scaffolding industry veteran Justin Breithaupt discusses the project “tough spot” of the elevator shaft.
masonry and construction information

COLUMNS & DEPARTMENTS From The Editor Chairman’s Message Government Affairs New Products Federal Construction Full Contact PM News


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Britt Stokes, Acme Brick’s Director of Marketing, Retires.
August 2026

Fort Worth, Texas – After faithfully serving Acme Brick Company for 40 years, Britt has chosen to retire – although he will still be involved with Acme on various projects. Britt began his career with Acme as staff photographer and through dedicati

Sainte-Cécile Cathedral
August 2026

Imagine being handed a set of plans calling for the largest brick cathedral in the world. Now imagine building it without modern cranes, engineered scaffolding, forklifts, power tools, or structural analysis software. That was the challenge facing medie

Why SkillsUSA is the Keystone to MCAA’s Outreach
August 2026

When I stepped into the role of the MCAA’s first Director of Youth Outreach and Education, I knew we had a massive job ahead of us. I am a fourth-generation brick mason, and I have spent over two decades teaching the trade, from working with apprentices a

The First Paycheck
August 2026

Several years ago, Huntley Brothers hired a young apprentice. It was his first real job, and he had never had a paycheck before. Friday rolled around, and he got paid just like everyone else. Later that day, one of the guys told me something I have never