November 2013: From the Editor

Words: Dan Kamys From the Editor

A ‘Magical’ Time

Jennifer Morrell

“All work and no play make Jack a dull boy.” Such is not the case with our vibrant Mason Contractors Association of America members. We know how to get our work done, and have fun doing it.

Last month, I attended the 2013 MCAA Midyear Meeting in Orlando at Disney World Resorts. We had a large number of attendees as well as spouses, children and grandchildren at the event. It is wonderful to see our powerful leaders of the masonry industry holding their grandkids – a sighting of the “softer side.” Nothing can melt a heart like a chubby-cheeked baby.

mcaa mid year meeting 2103Committee meetings were held, along with a committee chair meeting, a board meeting, networking meetings, a joint meeting between the NCMA and SPEC MIX, and a SPEC MIX 500 regional event. Families enjoyed time together at the Magic Kingdom and a “Fantasmic!” show. The Living Seas closing dinner allowed attendees to enjoy the view of “the sea” and an underwater Mickey.

On a personal note, I was once again reminded that I work in the best industry on earth as many offered condolences and gave me big hugs, after learning of the passing of my father. I was overwhelmed by the kind words, emails and notes I received. I am a lucky girl to be in the company of such caring people as those in the MCAA and the readers of our magazine. We truly are a family.

Return to Table of Contents

The Enduring Power of Structural Masonry
July 2025

Masonry has been holding its ground for millennia — literally. And thanks to the simple brilliance of arching action, it continues to do so with strength, style, and surprising efficiency. In an era of advanced modeling and fast-moving schedules, one time

Outreach Outlook: Momentum in Motion
July 2025

As we move into the heart of summer, the masonry industry continues to thrive—fueled by innovation, partnership, and a growing commitment to excellence in education and workforce advancement. June has been a remarkable month, marked by events that not onl

Building More: Slow, Fast, or Consistent. What is Tempo?
July 2025

It was a drizzly midweek day when I rolled up to the project we were working on just outside of town. The foreman paced the scaffolding, rain hood half-zipped, barking at two laborers who were sprinting bricks like they were late for a flight. Forty feet

Marvelous Masonry: Belém Tower
July 2025

The Belém Tower in Lisbon, Portugal, stands as a testament to stone construction's enduring artistry and technical prowess. Erected between 1514 and 1519, this iconic structure served as a defensive bastion at the mouth of the Tagus River and as a ceremon