March 2010: For The Record

Words: Dan Kamys

March 2010

For The Record

JenniferStability

Jennifer Morrell Editor jmorrell@lionhrtpub.com

What is your definition of stability? The word can easily describe many facets of your lives, from the healthy state of your families to the strength of the buildings you construct as mason contractors. We all want stability in life.

Even in the midst of such an unstable economic climate, many businesses in our industry have stabilized. This was evident during the World of Concrete/World of Masonry show in Las Vegas last month. I was expecting low-spirited people and a sparsely populated show floor. But what I found was just the opposite: energized, upbeat crowds and vendors who want to continue to take care of business. Has it been easy? No. But people are doing what they need to survive, and to maintain some sense of stability. The same can be said for Masonry Magazine. Times have been tough for everyone, but we have remained committed to bringing you a quality magazine every month, complete with editorial content that will teach you about industry trends and methods as well as the products available to you. As we all strive for stability, I applaud your efforts to remain strong and relevant. We can all find a way to succeed, if we work together.

Letter to the Editor

Dear Jennifer,

A recent article by Mark Fowler entitled “Stupid Prices” (January 2010) hits the nail on the head. I’ve been involved with the manufacturing and marketing of masonry construction products for over 40 years. I can say from personal experience that I have seen these down times before and the results that came from a substandard reaction to them. Low prices lead to inferior construction practices. Lower quality or no quality products are substituted for specified products, often times without authorization.

We are in challenging times, and how we react to these conditions will set the course for our industry in the future. Substandard building products and building practices brought about by low-ball pricing will become a cancer in our industry if we allow it.

?? Richard Lolley President, CEO Advanced Building Products, Inc.

Blok-FlashCorrection

In the January 2010 issue of Masonry, an incorrect image appeared with the article, “Mason Finds Win-Win Solution for CVS Store” (p. 20). The following image is the correct image of an installation of Blok-Flash. We regret the error.

Return to Table of Contents
Detailing for Durability: The 2026 Guide to High-Performance Stone Veneer Transitions
January 2026

Some of the most expensive failures involving manufactured stone veneer installations don’t come from the stone at all, but rather from the material transitions and flashing around it. Transitions are weak points in the overall cladding where water can fi

Jeff Tew
Technical Talks
Read More
How TMC Is Reaching the Next Generation of Masons
January 2026

Advocacy, outreach, and education have never been more important to the future of Texas masonry. As the state continues to grow, so does the demand for skilled trades. Industry leaders, schools, and organizations are working together to make sure the next

Ashton Fairchild
Industry News
Read More
Restoring South High School: A Beaux-Arts Icon in Youngstown
January 2026

By Eric Holm, Executive Director, Jubilee Urban Development A Testament To Time And Craftsmanship In the heart of Youngstown, Ohio, stands a structure that has witnessed more than a century of history, resilience, and craftsmanship. South High School,

Technical Talks
Read More
Risk Management Benefits of Reviewing the OSHA Top 10
January 2026

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration’s (OSHA) Top 10 Most Frequently Cited Standards serve to keep employers aware of common risks that can have serious consequences. This annual list highlights the most frequently cited violations that inspe

Patrick Cunningham
MAP Partner
Read More