I wanted to take a brief moment to inform you about some upcoming changes for Masonry Magazine. Masonry Magazine has been owned by the Mason Contractors Association of America (MCAA) since its inception.

This is an exciting time in our country. As we grind through our everyday activities and complain about being busy, there are many positive things happening.

Recently, we mailed our renewal invoices to all of our existing members. I want to thank all those that have responded.

As summer starts, we continue to struggle through these tough economic times. We at the MCAA continue to work hard for the mason contractors and the industry.

The MCAA held its annual legislative conference the week of May 7 in Washington, D.C. The conference was held in conjunction with NCMA (National Concrete Masonry Association) this year.

The last two months have been a very busy time for the MCAA officers and staff. Besides meeting to review and analyze the January convention, we are in full planning mode for next year.

Last month, I shared with you my vision for the MCAA for the next two years. This month, I would like to invite you to join us in Washington, D.C., for our Legislative Conference, May 8 and 9, 2012.

As I begin my term as president, I would like to start by thanking all of you for the trust you have placed in me to lead this great organization.

I???ll begin by saying ???thank you??? for giving me the opportunity to serve as President of the MCAA.

I have one more article to write before I turn my pen over to the next President of MCAA. Before I do that, I have to share more with you concerning our industry.

I awake around 4 a.m. and lie there for a moment, wondering what the day may hold. Knowing a lawyer is lying in his bed thinking of a way to increase his business opportunities, I just wonder if I am on his mind.

Norma Jean and I have booked our flights to Las Vegas, and I hope you have, too. You might want to see this secret DVD my wife is working on that I can???t see.

It is still very hot and dry here in Texas. As you have heard, wildfires are the news of the day, and then the rest of the news is about a guy named Rick Perry!

We just ended a streak here at home and it is one I am not bragging about. It???s just a fact. Can you imagine 47 days in a row of 100-degree or above temperatures?

Many changes are taking place around the world and even in our nation. The beauty of masonry and its sustainability have not changed, and I am proud of that.

The MCAA Board of Directors and the Committee Chairs are working every day for our industry. Do not forget that the MCAA is the only national association that works for us, the mason contractors, looking out for our best interest.