Kent Huntley & Paul Cantarella Jr. 75th Midyear Testimonies

Words: Paul Cantarella, Kent Huntley

Kent Huntley

The MCAA has long been a pillar of strength, tradition, and craftsmanship within our industry. As we approach this year’s Midyear meeting, I am reminded of their vital role in fostering connection, growth, and inspiration. This year’s event is particularly special, as it marks the 75th anniversary of MCAA’s first meeting, held on Mackinac Island. This historic location provides a unique backdrop for celebrating our achievements while reflecting on the challenges we have overcome.

Our Midyear meetings serve as a gathering point for professionals from across the country, allowing us to share innovative ideas and discuss the challenges we face. The benefits extend beyond just industry advancement; personally, these meetings provide invaluable opportunities for networking and collaboration. Many attendees express the joy of connecting with peers, sharing experiences, and forming bonds that strengthen our community.

Mackinac Island, with its enchanting landscape and absence of motorized vehicles, creates a serene atmosphere perfect for fostering these connections. Accessible only by ferry or plane, it offers a picturesque setting for us to engage meaningfully with one another.

As we honor our past and engage with the present, let us also focus on building a brighter future together. I encourage everyone to join us on this magical journey as we celebrate 75 years of MCAA. Together, we can forge new paths and continue to advance our industry for the next generation.



___

Paul Cantarella Jr.

This year marks my 12th MCAA Midyear Meeting, and I can confidently say the 75th will be one to remember.

My journey started in September 2015 in Key West, when Cantarella & Son received the Safety Advantage Award. Safety has always been a top priority for me, so accepting that award in person meant a lot. I had read about the MCAA and World of Concrete for years, and figured it was time to give the Midyear Meeting a try.

Cheryl and I arrived in sunny Key West nervous—we didn’t know a single person or what to expect. Sitting at the pool bar, we noticed a guy who looked familiar. Eventually, we struck up a conversation and discovered it was Steve Wheeler from EZG. That chance meeting turned into a lifelong friendship. Steve and his wife Anna have become some of our closest friends. Our families have celebrated life’s highs and supported each other through heartbreaking lows—including when Steve flew out from World of Concrete in June 2021 to be with us as we said goodbye to our precious daughter Skylar. The connections we’ve made through this association are deeply meaningful.

By the end of the trip, which included the opening dinner, we quickly realized our worries were unfounded as the group welcomed us with open arms. It included a pub crawl and a late night haunted trolley ride with a creepy doll in a museum that still gives me goosebumps. We were amazed by how many people took the time to greet us, ask about our business, and show genuine interest in our family. That warm welcome made a lasting impression. From that point on, we never looked back.

The following year in Scottsdale, I received another Safety Award and took the exam to become a certified Mason Contractor. I’ll never forget the moment when members of the board remembered our names and made a point to welcome us. That recognition made a huge impact; we had officially “drank the juice.”

It’s hard to explain just how special this association is. For me, each Midyear is a recharge. I leave feeling inspired, motivated, and ready to bring new ideas back to our company. For Cheryl, it’s a much-needed break with friends who, over the years, have become more like family.

As we head into the 75th MCAA Midyear, we’re honored to be part of this extraordinary group. When passionate, like-minded people come together, the conversations are meaningful, the laughs are plenty—and yes, sometimes the good times last well into the night.

If you attend one Midyear, I promise—you’ll be back.





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