Masonry Magazine April 2000 Page. 53
MASONRY
THE
SHOW
by Rachel A Young,
Director Meetings & Conventions
Masonry Show Debuts
With Unequalled Success
above, MCAA Past Presidents Bob Ebling, Dick Felice, Dick Matthews, Don Grant and Lenny Pradue gathered to celebrate 50 years of MCAA Excellence.
below and right, Guests enjoyed a night in the Old West town of Bonnie Springs.
Goals are meant to be set at a level high enough to be challenging, yet realistic enough to be obtainable. This past February the MCAA not only achieved the goals set for the first MASONRY SHOW, but far surpassed those goals in areas of attendance, exhibitor participation and program content. The week of February 7 was overflowing with educational sessions, skills competitions, exhibit hours, networking sessions, manpower forums, architect programs, awards receptions, charitable projects, local tours and even a little time at the gambling tables.
While creating the memorable opening of THE MASONRY SHOW, the Mason Contractors Association of America was celebrating its 50 years of supporting the masonry industry. The 50th Annual MCAA Convention was held in conjunction with the show and truly added a feeling of community to this ever growing crowd. Over 2,500 attendees gathered with another 1,000 exhibitors to create a community dedicated to the masonry industry in one form or another. The official kick-off was delivered by MCAA President, Donald E. Larsen with the State of the Association Address on Tuesday morning. Directly following Mr. Larsen, a hilarious morning was spent with entertainer Frank Miles. Las Vegas was alive with laughter as Mr. Miles flawlessly delivered punch line after punch line to an audience of nearly 400! An important afternoon spent in committee meetings and the MCAA Annual Meeting led way to Continued on next page
MASONRY-MARCH/APRIL, 2000 53