Reflecting on 2019

Bronzella Cleveland, Editor 

As this year comes to a close, I can’t help but wonder if 2020 will go as quickly as 2019 did. I get it as I get older life seems to pass. Holidays aren’t as big, birthdays aren’t huge celebrations with cake and friends, but another year to think over how old we’re getting and how the times have changed. I sound old, don’t I? We can all thank 2019 for being both a rewarding and challenging year — and taking about five years off my expectancy.   

While the days of December wind down, I want you to take a moment to reflect on all the good things that have happened and you’ve done this year. Then take a brief second to think about all the not-so-good moments that have happened, don’t take too long because that reflection will turn into a completely different experience. Who really wants to take that unpleasant stroll down short-term memory lane? Not me, that’s for sure! But consider different ways to do things differently if that moment, month, or memory didn’t come out the way you wanted.   

If you’re one to make resolutions don’t be so hard on yourself (that’s one for me as well!) but to strive to get as close to your goals as you can, the whole point of us growing in life is to be a better person than we were the day, month, or year before. I think that’s enough of me harping on life, getting off that soapbox. Let’s get into what the last issue of MASONRY DESIGN holds for you!   

This issue is jam-packed with tons of informative and fun articles for you to read, from case studies that highlight restoration and rehab to a preservation case study that highlights a historic building in Chicago. You will also meet our newest columnist Will Quam in our NXT GEN series and learn more about him through his introductory column.     

Be sure to read the most up to date standards on green building presented by the Natural Stone Council. We also have a software & apps article on IMI’s Wall Systems Library, discover more about this awesome tool, and how it can help with specifying. Part 2 of Steven Fechino’s Designing an Adhered Masonry Veneer, and you won’t want to miss the second part of this four-part series.   

Our cover story features brick sculptor Brad Spencer and some of his beautiful pieces, be sure to check out his article. There are also articles on a resiliency article on ballistics and structural brick, Paul Potts is back with another article on the continuation of design, and of course David Biggs’ Technical Talk.   

We hope you’ve enjoyed our first full year with MASONRY DESIGN since acquiring it. There are so many new things coming in the New Year. Make sure to subscribe to our digital emails and to check us out on Facebook and have a wonderful, safe Christmas and New Year. 2020 here we come!