Making a difference

Words: Jennifer MorrellBeing part of the Mason Contractors Association of America has made a difference in my life in many ways. A group of us recently attended the MCAA Legislative Conference in Washington, D.C., and each year this trip only increases my interest in our government and how it works (or, sometimes, doesn’t work).

We, as MCAA members, preach over and over that, in order to be heard and make a difference, we must get in front of Members of Congress. It’s true.

Each year, we enter different politicians’ offices and, usually, are led to a meeting room. Many times, we begin explaining our concerns over various issues (silica regulations, estate tax, immigration, check-off program, and more). These elected officials do not always understand or even know of the issues. In particular, he or she may not understand how a bill or proposed bill might affect our industry and, therefore, jobs for Americans. Once we leave their offices, they do understand.

Legislative Conference attendees educate politicians, one by one, and it’s effective. Since power lies in numbers, your attendance next year would truly make a difference as we fight to keep our industry thriving and profitable.

Being able to run from building to building on The Hill once a year, meeting with Members of Congress, is only the beginning of the differences the MCAA has made for me in my life. Never have I met such an intelligent, hard-working, honest group of people, many of whom have become mentors to me.

It also has allowed me to better understand my own father’s business, since he has a brick distribution company in South Georgia. I understand the role of his company, and can see firsthand what the last few years have done to construction-related businesses.

I guess there’s something about working in an industry that is responsible for structures and foundations all around us — both new and restored. Our industry makes me extremely proud. I am Blessed to be a part of it.
About: FeaturedLegislative
 0
Who Knows Most About Keeping Masonry Workers Safe?

As a safety professional who has specialized largely in masonry safety since the late 1980s, I’ve grown to think that I know a great deal about keeping masonry workers safe. That being said, I must admit that my colleagues and I know more about complianc

Read More
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

By: Cassie Mejia
About: Featured
Read More
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

By: Paul Bender
About: MAP Partner
Read More
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

By: Amy Oakley
Read More