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A Time to Build

Words: Jennifer MorrellAs I complete my second week as editor of Masonry, I have a lot to take in and digest. This industry is as exciting as it is complex, and I already have a great respect for masonry industry professionals.

Growing up around the building industry, I considered myself familiar with the world of construction. I have edited and written residential real estate and development stories, news and case studies for many years, most recently as editor of two real estate magazines in Chicago and Miami. And, with a father who owns a brick distribution company in South Georgia, I learned as a 17-year-old that bricks cost 19 cents each and came in cubes that were hauled around on pallets. I understood from an early age that the color of a brick or concrete wall could vary just by changing the color of the mortar used to connect them. I am finding, however, that quite a learning curve lies ahead for me.

Through my exposure to realtors, builders, and those who make and distribute many of the materials used to create a house, office building, condo, school or church, I have a deeply rooted interest in learning all I can about the masonry industry.

In many ways, it's a time to build — build upon my surface knowledge of construction and masonry techniques and build relationships in this industry. I am lucky to work with a magazine representing such a stellar organization as the Mason Contractors Association of America. I look forward to meeting as many of you as possible through trade show attendance, email exchanges and good, old-fashioned phone conversations.

I am relying on you to reach out to me as much as I try and reach out to all of you. I welcome your comments, suggestions, and news and information as I learn all there is to know (if that's even possible) about this complicated and ever-changing industry that is masonry.

Feel free to email me at jmorrell@lionhrtpub.com, or call me at 770-431-0867, ext. 225. I look forward to building a relationship with you and your company.
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