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

Smarter Time Tracking on the Jobsite: Introducing Geofence Notifications and Logging in CrewTracks
April 2026

For masonry contractors, time tracking is more than just a payroll task; it’s a key part of managing crews, understanding job costs, and keeping projects running smoothly. Yet many companies still struggle with one common challenge: making sure employees

Fechino Files: Diesels Below 32 Degrees
April 2026

I am guessing that if you are reading this, then you experienced the cold, late-January spell that took over most of the country. The cold weather has many effects on the operations of a masonry contractor, from job shutdowns to equipment starting issues,

Outreach Outlook: Building Momentum Across the Southern Region
April 2026

As April arrives, the pace of our outreach and workforce efforts across the Southern Region reaches a new level of intensity. This is the time of year when our programs, partners, and state collaborators all accelerate at once. SkillsUSA competitions are

Marvelous Masonry: Elbphilharmonie
April 2026

Most people know the Elbphilharmonie for its glass façade and dramatic roofline. From a distance, that’s what defines the skyline in Hamburg’s HafenCity district. But for masonry contractors and suppliers, the real story starts at the base.