MCAA'S Director of Government Affairs Participates in BIPAC Forum

Words: Dan Kester/Public/News/12172003843.gif" width="200" height="125" border="0" align="right"> On Tuesday, December 2, the Business Industry Political Action Committee (BIPAC) held a half-day forum on the upcoming 2004 elections. Marian Marshall, MCAA's Director of Government Affairs, participated in the panel discussions and offered her insights as to how small trade associations with limited PAC funds can be effective in supporting candidates for federal office who are pro-business.

BIPAC's members are primarily larger corporations and trade associations such as Boeing, Exxon-Mobil, the AGC and NFIB. Marian told the audience that the size of an organization should not matter; you simply have to find creative ways to get engaged in campaigns, establish a presence and forge a long-standing relationship with a number of Hill offices. She also suggested that when planning events for members the larger trade associations and corporations should consider reducing the entry fee for small organizations like MCAA which could reciprocate by generating funds from other sources.

As Dwight Eisenhower once said, everyone should make politics a part time profession. MCAA has certainly made a difference with its Political Action Committee (MACPAC).

The Importance of Instructor Support
April 2026

Whether you are a new or veteran masonry instructor, we all need support throughout our careers. We can never stop learning, and keeping up with ever-changing technology, materials, and installation techniques can be overwhelming alongside the everyday pr

Vibing Masonry #11: Innovative Concrete Masonry Technologies in Healthcare Design
April 2026

In the high-stakes environment of healthcare design, every material choice is a clinical decision. Architects, engineers, and facility administrators are tasked with creating spaces that are not only resilient and code-compliant but also conducive to heal

Why Termination Bars Still Matter: A Practical Look at Long‑Term Flashing Performance
April 2026

In recent discussions across the masonry industry, I have heard termination bars described as “old school.” The implication is that with modern materials, primerless peel-and-stick flashings, advanced sealants, and structural insulated sheathing, mechanic

Building Solutions: The Critical Role of Cavity Space in Masonry Moisture Control
April 2026

Long before “rainscreen” became a popular term in building science, masonry cavity walls were functioning on that very principle. A brick veneer cavity wall is designed with the expectation that water will penetrate the exterior