Meeting the Challenges Ahead
Report of the President
1992… Known as the year of the woman. It was a good year for some, but not very good for most. There were some people who became famous. Some people got foolish. People died. Things changed. It seemed like a long year, that’s because it was. February 29 gave us 366 days in 1992.
This past year has got to rank very high as one of the worst years economically that we have encountered in the past ten years. Not in recent memory have things been as tough (in an ever changing construction market) as they were in 1992, and continue to be in many areas of the country. But one thing we can say…. so long status quo.
Rarely can the essence of an entire year be captured in a single word, but 1992 was one of those years, and the word was “change”.
That alone is remarkable. As much as we Americans like to think of their nation as the world capital of the pioneer spirit, the reality is – that our society fosters a deep and abiding comfort with the status quo.
We like grandfatherly incumbent leaders, steady as she goes… that’s the ticket, at least that was the ticket. This past year though, a call for change erupted like a volcano from the American subconscious. And president Bill Clinton, the politician who did the best job recognizing the eruption and sticking the one word label “change” on it, was rewarded with the presidency.
And what’s even more remarkable is, no one seems to know just what shape all this change is going to take. For all the papers, summit conferences, and policy speeches that have abounded, a foggy air of vagueness still seems to cling to the whole process.
During these tough times, many associations scale back and wait for the storm to blow over. But MCAA refused… instead the association, its officers and staff acted aggressively on behalf of its members to meet the challenges that lie ahead for our industry.
In my address in Orlando, I noted that along with our country’s call for change in 1992, this was echoed elsewhere in the world – the Soviet Empire, Europe and again now – in the Middle East. Even MCAA had to change, if it expected to meet the challenges ahead. I outlined several areas that we would have to commit ourselves. MCAA should work closely with allied associations to better coordinate all our efforts to expanding our market share. We must work to expand our membership base, which would result in a stronger more effective association. MCAA should work to improve the industries image, the quality of our projects, and look beyond our own pocketbooks. We should be conscious of the industries future as well. MCAA should revive and expand its educational efforts to keep our members leaders in the masonry industry. Finally, we should become more involved with government relations which dramatically affect our industry. This was an undertaking that raised some questions.
But on behalf of my fellow officers, I can report that the state of Mason Contractors Association of America is sound.
As we prepare for our summer board meeting, it was agreed the association needed a long-range plan if we were to achieve a greater goal. It was clear that as we launch this new plan, we needed to state our philosophy of action and effect. It is appropriate to talk about what we will do and what we hope to accomplish.
Long Range Plan
During this past year, each MCAA committee chairman and their committee members, approved the committee’s goals and have been active in achieving them. This long range plan was put together by our staff with very little input by me. Notably, Michael Adelizzi’s plan strives to make MCAA the sole perceived leader for the mason contractors – in the masonry industry. Representing just 20% of the mason contractors, MCAA would become the sole voice for contractors in the legislative process, education, research, industry promotion, training and safety by the end of 1995.
MCAA Committees
Lets take a look at these committees.
Apprentice Committee, co-chaired by Jerry Vernon and Charles Seedorff, will be developing a training needs survey to determine future workforce and training needs. This committee is also looking at developing a training program for supervisory personnel.
Education Committee, co-chaired by Harold Kochan and John Smith, has surveyed the membership and has begun developing new education programs and expanding the very successful “Masonry Quality Institute.”
Finance Committee, chaired by our treasurer Don Larsen, has dramatically improved the associations financial reporting system.
Insurance Committee, chaired by Edgar Boettcher, has prepared an insurance program for MCAA, and has already begun offering this new program to our members. The committee is looking toward being able to offer a complete insurance program – including a workers compensation plan yet this year.
Legislative Committee, co-chaired by Mike Johnston and Alan Griffin, has begun monitoring federal legislation (with the democratic party in control, this could become a very busy committee). The association has been advising members with the use of our new monthly “Legislative Updates”. The committee and the officers are preparing to participate in a legislative conference in Washington, D.C. in conjunction with the associated specialty contractors, where attendees will meet with legislators and the Clinton Administration to discuss issues affecting construction.
Marketing Committee, co-chaired by Robert Schuerman and James Cope, has developed the MCAA membership referral program. This program could become a cornerstone activity in recruiting new members. The program is designed to better understand the capabilities of the membership and then effectively refer members to masonry customers.
Masonry Magazine Review Committee, co-chaired by Donald Larsen and Richard Felice, was given the goal to improve the content of the magazine. Under the guidance of our editor, Mr. Gene Adams, I think you will agree this program has already begun with good success. Other goals are to improve the subscription and advertising base as well as the magazines influence in the industry.
Material Handling Committee, chaired by Ed Smith, has been active in redesigning the showcase, conducted each year at the Masonry Expo. The new showcase includes demonstrations on material handling in addition to the forklift demonstration.
Membership Committee, co-chaired by Anthony Zotollo and Richard Felice, has developed a new MCAA promotional video and a membership services catalog. This committee also plans an extensive mail campaign to expand the MCAA membership base and has refocused their efforts to bring all associate companies into the MCAA family.
Masonry Panels Committee, co-chaired by John Smith and Dee Brown, will begin publishing articles on the greater use and benefits of panels.
Safety Committee, chaired by Donald Grant, has begun publishing a safety feature in Masonry Magazine, and they are developing an up-to-date safety program for MCAA members.
Research
MCAA continues to be a full member and sponsor of the Council for Masonry Research (CMR). This organization is dedicated to conducting research for the advancement of the masonry industry. CMR has been involved with development of a masonry handbook, a masonry inspection guide, offers technical seminars, support of the National Concrete and Masonry Engineering Conference and the establishment of a disaster reconnaissance team to research the performance of masonry structures after extreme events occur. CMR is sponsored by MCAA along with National Concrete Masonry Association, Brick Institute of America, The Masonry Society, The Portland Cement Association and The National Lime Association.
Promotion
During the past year, we have been active in promoting greater co-operation with allied associations. Our officer have met with officers of other industry associations to discuss issues affecting this industry’s future growth.
Masonry Expo continues to be a significant trade show, promoting the benefits of masonry as well as a prime source for gaining information on new products, trends and innovations. We are proud to be one of the sponsors of the Masonry Expo which continues to be a unifying event focusing the industries efforts toward competing more effectively against other competitive construction industries, such as wood, dryvit, steel, and glass.
MCAA also helps in promoting such programs as the Professors Workshop which is an event dedicated toward educating college and university professors on the use of masonry, so the masonry’s importance in the academic curriculum is expanded. This is highly important because we need more young architects and engineers to gain awareness and to appreciate the versatility of masonry.
Looking Ahead
Much has been accomplished during the past year. A solid foundation has been laid to accomplish greater goals for the future. Relationships have been forged which hopefully will result in a more effective profitable industry.
Looking back, its clear that we have made little progress on some of our goals and yet others have moved forward at a rapid pace. We have sought to protect ourselves from frightening new rules OSHA has handed down to us. And though we speak forcefully and with conviction, we will do so without the illusion that we have all the answers or that we are always right.
When we err, we will correct our mistakes. Those who disagree with us will find an open door and an open mind. We want to speak with an authoritative and respected voice, but I want to encourage other voices too.
If I have one regret, it is that we haven’t expressed gratitude often enough for all who take part in our association. Let me correct that now: The real strength of MCAA lies in the willingness of its members to give their time and energies to a common task, particularly our officers. These officers give of their time to deal with a seemingly endless array of difficult problems. Our staff, all of which are important to the everyday operation of the association. Finally, of course – the guidance and leadership of George Miller, who has led the association for 43 years. To all these people, I want to thank them – for jobs well done.
My hope for the future is that through MCAA, we find ways to apply the ingenuity to the new opportunities that will present themselves. These opportunities will exist, it is up to us to seize them.
I must also thank you for the many letters I received, your calls, your attention, your support. And thanks for making this endeavor as your president so interesting… a year can fly by so quickly.
Chairman’s Message Archive

November 2019
Thankful for The Little Things

October 2019
Here’s to Another Successful Midyear 2019

September 2019
Texas Masonry Council: The Legacy

August 2019
The American Dream

July 2019
2019 Legislative Conference Recap

June 2019
Safety Doesn’t Happen on Accident

May 2019
Doing Our Part

April 2019
Preparing for D.C.

March 2019
More Than a Little Luck

February 2019
Show Your Love For The Industry

December 2018
The Opportunities are Endless

November 2018
2018 MCAA Midyear Meeting Recap

October 2018
Every Person’s Potential

September 2018
Recent Updates

August 2018
Masonry’s Future

July 2018
An Offer You Can’t Refuse

June 2018
Worthwhile Work

May 2018
Masonry All Around

April 2018
We’re Washington Bound

March 2018
The Changing Tide And Road Ahead

February 2018
A New Beginning

January 2018
Givers Gain

December 2017
The Reason for the Season

November 2017
Always, Always, Always Something To Be Thankful For

October 2017
Another Exciting Midyear Meeting

September 2017
Learning From North Carolina

August 2017
Let’s Help Close The Skills Gap

June 2017
Calculating Your Return on Investment

May 2017
Sweet Tea and Grits

April 2017
Silica, Auctions and Policy

March 2017
Things to Remember

February 2017
Looking Forward

January 2017
A Fresh Start

December 2016
Making Our Industry Stronger

November 2016
MCAA Midyear Meeting Does Not Disappoint

October 2016
Have You Made Your Pledge to the Foundation?

September 2016
Who Moved My Cheese?

August 2016
Get Ready for MCAA’s Midyear Meeting

July 2016
Making a Difference

June 2016
Southern Hospitality

May 2016
The 2016 MCAA Legislative Conference

April 2016
MCAA: Looking out for your interests

March 2016
Let’s share our passion!

February 2016
Thanks for letting me give back

January 2016
A week of masonry you can’t miss

December 2015
Giving back

November 2015
A successful Midyear Meeting in the Florida Keys

October 2015
Seeing the future before our eyes

September 2015
Join us for the Midyear Meeting

August 2015
The MCAA Midyear Meeting is approaching

July 2015
Spread the Word: Masonry Doesn’t Burn

June 2015
Busy on ‘The Hill’ for you

May 2015
Progress in the making

April 2015
A voice in Washington

March 2015
Another successful Convention in Vegas

February 2015
An exciting year ahead

January 2015
MCAA Convention is approaching

December 2014
Defining success

November 2014
Coming together for our industry

September 2014
Hitting the road and making a difference

August 2014
Staying busy for you

July 2014
MCAA Midyear Meeting approaching

June 2014
MCAA staying busy and making progress

May 2014
Be a voice in your industry

April 2014
The MCAA is on the move

March 2014
It’s all about helping each other

February 2014
Ready for action

January 2014
Thanks

December 2013
Happy holidays

November 2013
MCAA Midyear update

October 2013
Ushering in a busy fall season

September 2013
Workforce a familiar friend

August 2013
The MCAA in D.C.

July 2013
A Lot Happening

June 2013
Eye opening

May 2013
Why not be a member?

April 2013
First South of 40 Conference

March 2013
Positive movement

February 2013
Headed to Vegas

January 2013
New beginning

December 2012
It’s finally over

November 2012
My trip to the Rockies

October 2012
The 2012 election

September 2012
Stay involved

August 2012
Networking

July 2012
Summer time

June 2012
Exciting time

May 2012
Working for you

April 2012
Join us in D.C. next month

March 2012
New beginnings

February 2012
Farewell!

January 2012
One more to go!

December 2011
The life of a mason contractor

November 2011
Join us in Vegas

October 2011
The Future is Around the Corner

September 2011
This ole cowboy is excited!

August 2011
As the world turns

July 2011
Update From the President

June 2011
The Strong Spirit of our Industry

May 2011
A Bright Future

April 2011
Springtime Updates from MCAA

March 2011
Tidbits From MCAA

February 2011
Time Flies By

January 2011
The MCAA Convention: A Priceless Experience

December 2010
The End of the Year

November 2010
Busy Times!

October 2010
South of 40

September 2010
Get Involved on All Levels

August 2010
What Are We Doing?

July 2010
Have a Great Summer

June 2010
Adding Dollars to the Bottom Line

May 2010
MCAA Key Accomplishments 2009-2010

May 2010
The Government is Working, 24-7

April 2010
MCAA is Working for the Mason Contractor

March 2010
Moving Forward

February 2010
A Fond Farewell

January 2010
A New Year

December 2009
Start the Year Strong

November 2009
The Greening of our Industry

October 2009
A Successful Midyear Meeting

September 2009
MCAA in D.C.

August 2009
Brick Voids

July 2009
Vision 2020 Moving Forward

June 2009
Success On The Hill

May 2009
Show Your Support Through Membership

March 2009
On a Positive Note...

February 2009
Vision 2020

February 2009
State of the Association

January 2009
The Silver Lining

December 2008
How Is Your Business Doing?

November 2008
Fastest Trowel on the Block

October 2008
Thoughts on the 2008 Election

September 2008
Industry Cooperation for Positive Change

August 2008
Networking: Not Just a Buzz Word

June 2008
Impact on the Hill

April 2008
Join Us Next Month in D.C.

March 2008
Were you at the World of Masonry in January?

February 2008
New Horizons

January 2008
State of the Association

January 2008
Thanks for an Enjoyable Term as President

December 2007
Wrapping up Another Year

November 2007
Greetings From Italy!

October 2007
MCAA, World of Masonry Join Forces

September 2007
MCAA Looking to Expand Masonry Markets

August 2007
Certification: Good Efforts and Bad Rumors

July 2007
Positive Changes on the Horizon

June 2007
MCAA Appoints New Executive Director

April 2007
Isn’t It Time You Joined With Us?

February 2007
Advancing Masonry in a Global Economy

February 2007
Certification Can Strengthen Our Markets

January 2007
A New Battle Rages in Washington

December 2006
National Initiatives Will Build a Stronger Industry

October 2006
Totally Engaged in Washington

September 2006
MCAA's Skills Competitions Create Enthusiasm for Training

August 2006
Heeding Huckabee's Call for Action

July 2006
MCAA Membership Can Pay Real Dividends

April 2006
I Can't Wait To Get Started!

March 2006
Coming Together to Advance the Industry

February 2006
Coming Together to Expand Our Opportunities

January 2006
Strategic Planning Creates Successful Future

December 2005
The work of the Construction Industry Silica Task Force

November 2005
It's Time You Joined the MCAA

September 2005
Volunteerism Advances America and Our Industry

April 2005
Advancing the Masonry Industry

March 2005
Strong Reasons to Go to Masonry Showcase

February 2005
Contractors Taking the Promotion Initiative

January 2005
We Need Your Help!

December 2004
Elections 2004: An Interesting Political Year

November 2004
The Internet is Opening New Doors for Contractors

October 2004
Mason Contractors + Specifiers = Construct America

September 2004
Your Influence Can Impact the Election

June 2004
Stepping Up to Sell Masonry Systems

April 2004
New Challenges Await Us!

April 2004
The State of the Association

February 2004
The MCAA: Getting Plugged into Washington

January 2004
Contractors Organize to Tackle Promotion

November 2003
The Strength of Unity

September 2003
Military Construction: Traditional Masonry or Modern Design

June 2003
Partnership with CSI Benefits Industry

April 2003
Strength Through Advocacy

February 2003
A New Year, a New Congress and a New Outlook

January 2003
Masonry Showcase ... Take Your Business Further

December 2002
Let's Not Lose Sight of Training

November 2002
MCAA Is Working Hard On Your Behalf

August 2002
Phoenix ... Rising From the Ashes

July 2002
Industry Beginning To Think Together

May 2002
Industry Training at a Crossroads

April 2002
Coming Together As Contractors

March 2002
A Steadying Force in Uncertain Times

February 2002
Changing of the Guard

January 2002
Associate Members Play a Key Role in Industry

February 2000
A Half Century of Service...A Half Century of Leadership

January 2000
Fifty Years of Serving the Masonry Industry

March 1998
Our Work Awaits Us… Let Us Begin!

February 1961
A Message from Stephen D. Raimo