Start the Year Strong

Words: Tommy Daniel

Come check out what can give your company a competitive edge this year, not only through new product introductions, but also through the excellent assortment of educational opportunities.

In addition to these excellent networking and educational opportunities, attendees will have the opportunity to witness three of the most exciting and grueling masonry competitions in existence. Tuesday, we’ll present the best and brightest apprentices. These apprentices are winners from local contests around the country, all in Las Vegas to compete for the crown of national champion in the first-year, second-year and third-year levels. Wednesday, we’ll present the fastest brick layer in the Spec Mix Bricklayer 500, and Thursday, we’ll present the fastest block layer in the MCAA’s Fastest Trowel Contest. These events showcase the best of the best that the masonry industry has to offer.

Start the year strong and rejuvenate at the 2010 MCAA Convention.
Start the year strong and rejuvenate at the 2010 MCAA Convention.

In a twist to the MCAA’s traditional schedule, the Opening Session for this year’s convention will be a dinner on Tuesday evening. Just before the Opening Session, the MCAA will host their MAC PAC reception. This is a critically important event that will host the candidate who will be taking on Harry Reid for his Senate seat in the fall of 2010. All MCAA attendees are strongly encouraged to attend the MAC PAC reception and support the ever-growing important MCAA political action committee. On the final night, I will pass the reigns of the Presidency of the MCAA to Mackie Bounds as the MCAA will have the changing of our Board. The dinner will be followed by one of the great shows at the Venetian/Palazzo.

Lest we forget to mention that there will be the largest display of industry-related exhibitors in the World of Concrete and World of Masonry Show. I realize as much as anyone that these tough economic times can make us think of not attending or potentially cutting out our annual expenditure for the convention. It is critically important that we not sacrifice our opportunity to start the year strong and to give ourselves and key employees from our companies the opportunity to partake in an experience that will give us a competitive edge in the marketplace. The downturn will not last forever, and we need to be prepared and ready for the upswing. I find the convention a great opportunity to recharge my batteries, network, and learn from and share with other contractors in the industry. Sometimes, some of the most important things you will take home from an event like this happen outside the classroom. I would encourage all our readers to sign up today for this year’s convention.

Register today for the MCAA Convention and view the daily schedule at www.masoncontractors.org/convention.

I look forward to seeing you in Las Vegas!

Recognizing Women in the Industry

Masonry was introduced to the world through the imagination, determination, and pure strength of mankind. The first masons’ unique abilities harnessed the earth around them to create the structures that provided the security that allowed us to advance. Th

Understanding Different Types of Trowels Originating Through Government Specifications

Trowels are essential tools in masonry, each one designed with specific functions and specifications to aid in various tasks. Knowing the right type of trowel to use can greatly impact the quality and efficiency of your work. This article dives into the f

Natural Stone Institute Holds Utah Study Tour

Oberlin, OH, September 17, 2024—157 attendees from 48 member companies and 5 architectural firms attended the annual NSI Study Tour, which took place in Salt Lake City August 25-28, with an optional extension to Idaho on August 29. Highlights included an

LAR 300 Rotary Laser – Rugged, Precise, and Efficient Horizontal Leveling Made Easy

STABILA’s reputation for high-end measuring products and German engineering shines through in the LAR 300 Rotary Laser. This laser combines simple functionality with high precision across large distances and unmatched durability. Key Features Precision an