See Page Three

In this Issue:

A Message from the President Page 2Welcome New Members Page 2Sponsor’s Page Page 3Sigmon Design Competitions Pages 4 BL 500 Carolina Qualifier Page 5The Fastest Carolina Trowel Page 5Metrolina golf Page 5September Board Meeting Page 6Metrolina Recognition night Page 9Member News Page 10Bob Merrill Passes Page 10WorldSkills 2017 Page 11Dates to Note Page 11Certification Update Page 11NCMCA Annual Golf Page 12

December 2017 Vol. 43 No. 4

The Newsletter of The North Carolina Masonry Contractors Association

www.ncmca.com

This Issue Sponsored by

October at the Fair Top, left to right, Jennifer Haygood, President of the NC Community College System; Doug Burton, contest head judge; Jace Huntley, Huntley Brothers Company, fifth place; Conor Hallman, Second Place and Haran McGee, first place, both of McGee Brothers Company; Daniel Patino, Brodie Con-tractors, third place; Jamison Huntley, fifth place; Calvin Brodie, contest chairman, and David Smith, Senior Deputy Commissioner, NC Department of Agriculture. Bottom, left to right, Rex Huntley, Huntley Brothers, sixth place; Ellis Baucom, McGee Brothers Company, seventh place; Jose Serrano, Brodie Contractors, eighth place; Jonathan Carnes, Griffin Masonry, ninth place; and Shad Little, McGee Brothers Company, tenth place.

McGee Brothers Win One and Two at FairMcGee Brothers Company came away from the

64 Annual NC State Fair Masonry Apprentice Contest in October with First and Second Place finishes by Haren McGee and Conor Hallman.

The rest of the top-ten respectively were Daniel Patino, Brodie Contractors; Jace Huntley, Jamison

Huntley, and Rex Huntley of Huntley Brothers Company; Ellis Baucom, McGee Brothers Company; Jose Serrano, Brodie Contractors; Jona-than Carnes, Griffin Masonry; and Shadd Little, McGee Broth-ers Company.

Jesse Baker of West Rowan High School won in the pre-apprentice division.

New Champion Haren McGee is the son of Chris and Lori McGee. He is the brother of Kelton McGee, himself a former State Fair champion and a former MCAA National Champion. Kelton won the Novem-ber North Carolina “Fastest Trowel on the Block” contest. Their brother Wristen won the October SPEC MIX Bricklayer 500 Carolina Qualifier along with his brother Kaleb as his tender. Wristen is a two-time winner of the Annual NCMCA Samuel A. McGee Apprentice Masonry Skills Contest and a former winner of the MCAA International Skills Contest at Las Vegas. He won the State Fair contest himself in 2010. That means all four brothers will be compet-ing at the World of Masonry/Masonry Madness Day in Las Vegas on January 24, 2018.

Haren is next to the youngest brother of five. He also has two sisters.

Seventeen apprentices from five masonry con-tracting firms competed along with eight masonry students from five high schools.

Jesse Baker

Page 2 NC Masonry News December 2017

Robert H. Gates, CME, PresidentGates Construction Company, Mooresville, NC

Kent Huntley, CME, President-ElectHuntley Brothers Company, Monroe, NC

Danks Burton, CME, Secretary TreasurerPinnacle Masonry, Cary, NC

Ashlee K. Moore, CMP, ChairmanKoontz Masonry, Lexington NC

Doug Burton, CME, Eastern Vice Pres.Whitman Masonry, Benson, NC

Brandon Hartsell, CMP, Central V Pres.Gates Construction Company, Mooresville NC

Don Caldwell, Western Vice Pres.C & R Masonry, Candler, NC

John Cramer AAI, Insurance ConsultantTriSure Corporation, Raleigh, NC

Pete Schantz RHU, Insurance ConsultantMountcastle Insurance, Winston-Salem, NC

Lynn Nash, Executive Vice PresidentHickory, NC

The Quarterly Newsletter of The North Carolina

Masonry Contractors Association

109 11th Avenue NWPost Office Box 3463

Hickory, NC 28603-3463Telephone (828) 324-1564

Fax (828) 324-2179Information@ncmca.com

Andy-the-Cat Productions

Photographs by Andy-the-Cat Productions unless otherwise noted

A new look for NCMCA In September, the board adopted a new logo for the association. The designer, Jeffrey Dale (left) of Cary, offers this description of the new mark: “The brand incorporates a strong, meaningful logo. Modern lettering conveys new life, next generation leaders, and growth of an associa-tion, which is recognized on the national and international stage as a leader in the masonry industry. The trowel symbolizes the history and individuals who provided the foundation for an association, which set the standard for the masonry industry. The trowel also serves as a bridge connecting the foundation’s history to the industry of tomorrow.” In the photo, in addition to Mr. Dale, left to right, Rebranding Committee members Frank Werner, co-chair Brandon Hartsell, NCMCA Secretary-Treasurer Danks Burton, co-chair Doug Burton, and President Bob Gates. The new logo is being phased in as we head in to the new year.

The Three “F’s”I am writing this on one of my favorite

holidays…”Thanksgiving”. You may ask, what in the world does the letter “F” have to do with Thanksgiving?

F #1 – Food. Obviously, you can’t have Thanks-giving without food, and boy do I love food. I just love to eat. Just ask Denise. She has never fixed me a meal I didn’t like. Honest! I think one of my favorite things to eat at this time of year is cranberry sauce. None of that homemade stuff though, it must come out of the can and still show the rings of the can.

F #2 – Football. There is nothing better than be-ing stuffed from a Thanksgiving meal and watch-ing football on TV. Some of the greatest matchups have occurred on this day. I can remember this all the way back to my childhood and watching games with my dad. He was a big Redskins fan and I liked the Colts. That’s Baltimore Colts.

F #3 – Family. I think this is what Thanksgiving is all about. Spending quality time with family. As I grow older, I realize how your family grows and becomes more and more important. Our family is a big part of what makes us who we are.

I can even add a fourth “F”. Friends. The friends that I have made from being a part of this association and this industry have made such an

impact on who I am. I am so thankful for all of you. Through the good times and bad you all make a difference (M.A.D.)

We have some challenges ahead and some exciting things happening and I look forward to tackling those things together as friends and family. Denise and I would like to wish all of you a Happy Thanksgiving and a very Merry Christmas!

Robert H. “Bob” Gates CME President 2016-2017

Message From the President

Welcome New MembersElite Property Services

Brooke Archambault (A1)Chapel Hill, NC

www.eliteproperty servicesinternational.comRecruited by the Raleigh Chapter

Carolina Clean Pressure WashingTravis L. George (A1)

Wake Forest, NCwww.carolinacleanpw.com

Recruited by the Raleigh Chapter

Federated InsuranceZack Wood (A1)Owatonna, MN

www.federatedinsurance.comRecruited by Eastern Carolina Chapter

December 2017

December 2017 NC Masonry News Page 3

!

!

!

!"#$%&'!(")!*+,("-+))!.+"!

!!

!"#$%#&'#&%$(#&)*+,-.&/0#&01",)$2%&$-)&+#3#3'#+4&&5#&$+#&0#+#&(1+&21*&60#-&788,)#-/%&9$::#-;&

&<1&$""&1*+&=>?>7&@+,#-)%&$-)&>",#-/%4&6#&6$-/&/1&/$A#&/0,%&1::1+/*-,/2&/1&/0$-A&$""&1(&21*&(1+&21*+&'*%,-#%%&$-)&/0#&/+*%/&$-)&81-(,)#-8#&/0$/&21*&:"$8#&6,/0&*%;&&&&"@+13&$""&1(&*%&$/&<+,B*+#4&6#&6,%0&21*&$-)&21*+&($3,",#%&$&C"#%%#)&>0+,%/3$%&$-)&$&9#$"/024&9$::2&$-)&!+1%:#+1*%&=#6&D#$+;&&&

!"#$%&'#()!!!*+#,$!!!!-+.)/0%1+!

"!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!"#$%&'()%*++,)%-.'/01%2'0)/341%56%#7897%:;:<!8:<#!7"%

===>?./@A.)>B+C%

Page 4 NC Masonry News December 2017

Design Competitions This fall, the 2017 NCMCA Sigmon Memorial Scholarship Design Competitions once again took place at NC State University in Raleigh and Appalachian State University in Boone. Top, left to right, the NC State winning team of Cassidy Putnam, Clint Ronsick, Brooke Grayson, and Nickolas Lash. The NC State competition is part of Professor J. Patrick Rand’s “Architectural Construction Systems” class at NC State University’s College of Design and is a graded class assignment. Fourteen teams participated. NCMCA President Bob Gates and Master of Architecture graduate student Caroline Towns, a veteran of the Construction Systems course, served as judges at NCSU. Thirteen teams competed at ASU. Bottom, left to right, NCMCA President-Elect and Apprenticeship and Training Chairman Kent Huntley, contest judge; NCMCA Secretary/Treasurer Danks Burton, contest judge; First Place Team winner Elvie Sumner (ASU ‘18); Jason Miller, ASU Assistant Professor and Program Director of Building Science; First Place Team Winner Tori Whicker (ASU ‘18); Don Woodruff, ASU Senior Lecturer, Building Science Program; and Chip Debelius, ASU Associate Professor, Building Science Program. The winning teams share a semester’s tuition as their prize. The competition required the teams to design and model a hypothetical masonry office building. The scholarship is named in memory of David, Randy, and Dwayne Sigmon.

Photograph by J. Patrick Rand

LettersDear NCMCA,I am extremely grateful and humbled to be a recipient

of the North Carolina Masonry Contractors Association / Sigmon Memorial Scholarship for the 2017-2018 aca-demic year. As a father of two, the funding will greatly assist by lowering my financial burden of balancing both school and family life. I am very excited to be able to continue my education at NC State and am thankful for this opportunity.

NC State offers a dynamic learning environment and provides ample opportunities to promote academic theories into a working application. This preparation is priceless, and is made possible by engaging educators who are willing to work tirelessly for our benefit. This is evident by the strong supporting cast of North Carolina State Alumni who are scattered throughout the world accomplishing their goals.

Again, I am very thankful for your generosity and will-ingness to support educational growth for the North Caro-lina State Students. Your support will help me continue to grow and achieve my both my personal and career goals.

Sincerely, Nickolas Lash

Dear NCMCA, I am one of the NC State Architecture students, along

with my teammates Nickolas Lash, Cassidy Putnam and Brooke Grayson, who were, thanks to you, awarded a generous scholarship for our efforts in the 2017 North Carolina Masonry Contractors Association/Sigmon Memo-rial Scholarship. I deeply appreciate such a generous gift. I am glad that there are mentors like you out there that are both concerned about the next generation of designers and committed to expressing said concern in such concrete and meaningful ways through scholarships and grants.

You will be glad to know that I have thrived more as a architecture graduate student than I ever did before. Gaining a greater understanding of how buildings are put together through projects such as my team and I’s scholarship. Winning wall design has given me a more in-depth understanding and respect for the tradesmen and other building professionals that I, as an architect, must collaborate with in order to achieve our collective goals. Having received such recognition for this particular project has cemented such lessons in my memory.

As an architecture student working on a masters degree with a very full course load combined with the impending pressures of paying off student loans post graduation, your gift helps me have more peace of mind. This allows me to focus more of my energy on getting the most out of my education and less on fretting about finances. Most importantly, however, your acknowledgment makes me feel that my abilities are appreciated and valued and that message is not only highly motivational and inspiring but also incredibly kind.

Sincerely, Clint Ronsick

Sigmon Design Competitions 2017

Convention dates:April 26 - 29, 2018

The Omni Grove Park Inn, AshevilleFeaturing Guest Speaker

Robert V. “Buddy” Barnes, Jr.Chairman, Dee Brown Masonry, Inc.

MCAA Masonry Hall of Fame MemberSponsorship Opportunities Available Buddy Barnes

The 2018 NCMCA Annual Convention& Business Meeting

December 2017 NC Masonry News Page 5

SPEC MIX Regional Wristen McGee (center) won the Carolina SPEC MIX Bricklayer 500 Regional Qualifier in October at Tucker-Kirby Company in Charlotte. Wristen had the most brick laid in the competition but also claimed the Top-Craftsman award for best overall wall. Tender and brother Kaleb (left,) and Wristen, congratulated by SPEC MIX’s Ryan Coyne (right) will move on to compete in the Las Vegas SPEC MIX Bricklayer 500 World Championship Janu-ary 24th at the World of Concrete where they will be joined by reigning World Champion, North Carolina’s Matt Cash and Toughest Tender Chet Huntley who qualify automati-cally for the 2018 competition. Wristen has enjoyed previous success in masonry competitions. He won the NCMCA Sam McGee Memorial Apprentice Contest in both 2011 and 2012, the first person to ever win the contest twice, and won the Annual NC State Fair Apprentice Contest in 2010. He won the second-year division of the MCAA International Skills Competition in 2013. Kaleb and Wriston are with McGee Brothers Company.

The Fastest! Kelton McGee (middle) of McGee Brothers Company is congratulated by Southeast Concrete Masonry Association President Byard Stevens (left) as the winner of the North Carolina “Fastest Trowel on the Block” qualifier contest that took place on November 15 at Ben Ketchie Park in Gold Hill. Kelton and his tender, Reed Ollis (right) will compete in the Mason Contractors Association of America “Fastest Trowel on the Block” competition at the World of Concrete/Masonry Madness Day January 24th in Las Vegas. Kelton also wins $2,500. Nine contestants from six masonry contracting firms competed. Finishing in second place was Noah Baucom also of McGee Brothers Company. Frank Paul of Paul’s Masonry finished third. The contest was held in conjunction with the second annual “Masonry Education Day.” 419 high school students from nineteen schools across the state were on hand for demonstrations provided by industry representatives and to enjoy a hot dog lunch while they watched the block laying competition. Less deductions, Kelton laid 70 eight-inch CMU’s in twenty minutes. Photograph by Carl Moser

Brothers are

Las Vegas Bound!These Brothers are Las Vegas Bound

Golfing in Mooresville The Metrolina Chapter held its Annual Golf Tournament in November at the Mooresville Golf Course. The winning team pictured left to right: Bob Gates, Ray Love, Chad Frye, and Dink Mitchell fol-lowed in second place by the team of Carson Greif, Kent Cloninger, Trey Tuttle, and Cory Huneycutt. The team of Phil Franchino, Justin Bamonte, Nick Ferrucci, and Paul Murdock finished in third place. Justin Bamonte had “Closest-to-the-Pin” honors and Dylan Riddle was recognized for the day’s “Longest Drive.”

Murdell 2018The NCMCA Raleigh Chapter 19th Annual “Murdell” Golf

Tournament & Bus Tour along the Grand Strand in North Carolina and South Carolina is Friday January 12 to Sunday January 14, 2018. For information: Doug Burton doug@whitmanmasonry.com (919) 894-8511

Page 6 NC Masonry News December 2017

Education and Research (NCCER) masonry training curriculum and certification. Many instructors feel the NCEER curriculum, the North Carolina state standard, has taken away instruction time and emphasizes paperwork and book learning over craft skills. Instructors are graded on standardized test scores rather than the craft skills of their students. Ryan is looking to help and asked for assistance. He asked masonry contractors to make a list of five things a masonry student should know when he is done with high school and seeking a masonry job. For instance, an OSHA Ten-Hour card. “The state is very big on any kind of certification” students can earn. When he develops the contractors’ list, Ryan plans to consult with contacts in the NC Depart-ment of Public Instruction to work with them on implementing the suggestions.

Byard Stevens discussed work force development and the six-week pilot program Ryan is working on at Mount Pleasant High School. The “Power Block” consisting of six in-school sessions will include a career fair at its conclusion. Ryan is already creating excitement among Career & Technical Education directors (CTE) in other areas who want to know more about the program.

Certification Board of Governors Chairman Doug Burton reported the eighth series of classes (began) in October. 558 individuals have participated from 92 companies. We have certified 201 as Certified Ma-sonry Professionals (CMP,) and certified 90 Certified Masonry Executives (CME.) Twenty-five companies have been certified. The new series includes the Masonry Quality Institute (MQI) workshop February 21 & 22, 2018. Because only a few require MQI and it is an expensive class, the workshop may not be offered in every class series and anyone who needs MQI now or possibly in the future should register for the February class. “Thanks to McGee Brothers for the use of their Greensboro facility year after year.”

Doug Burton provided a history and update of the Sigmon Memorial Scholarship program at NC State (16 years) and now at Appalachian State University (5 years.) Most funding comes from the NCMCA golf tournament. The scholarships now cost about $4,000 annually at each school. Doug offered a description of the Appalachian State program and the differences between ASU and NC State. “A good program for us… A good opportunity to talk with future architects.”

Safety Committee Chairman John Cramer pro-vided an update. “NEW SILICA STANDARD – IT’S HERE!!! SEPTEMBER 23,2017. There has been sev-eral training courses already offered including one from the MCAA, and TriSure has a version available to NCMCA members. You are required to be trained and in compliance by 9/23/17. Modify your work processes to stay within Table 1 Guidelines!

“SCAFFOLDING - Make absolutely sure your Competent Person training is up to date and docu-mented. Have written documentation of inspections

The Board of Directors met in September at Greensboro. A summary of that meeting follows.

Treasurer Danks Burton reported assets as of August 2017: $603,518.23 including liabilities of $80,913.69. $503,751.85 presently invested with Morgan Stanley. Market value of Morgan Stanley investments: $557,116.53 including accrued inter-est. Unrealized gain: $53,364.68.

Pete Schantz reported on the Association’s health and benefits program: “The group and individual markets continue to evolve post Affordable Care Act. While all has been relatively quiet on the group front since the last board meeting, outside of the repeal and replace movement losing almost all of its support, a lot has happened that will affect individual consumers in 2018. BCBS has requested an 8% premium increase to the NC Department of Insurance for plan year 2018. Approval of this increase should be announced in the next few weeks. Common sense dictates that with little, or at pres-ent, no competition for BCBS, this increase will be quickly approved. With that being said, the news for those of us with “grand-fathered” individual plans is quite shocking. Most with one of these plans will be experiencing an increase of approximately 100% or in some cases even greater. This is due to BCBS’ desire to discontinue these plans moving forward (the block isn’t performing well any longer).

“The group insurance market is all over the board on the premium increase front again this year. Group segment based on number of employees and grandfathered/non-grandfathered status factor in to the wide range of renewal premium increases. Our small group client segment, which includes all employer groups with less than 50 employees have averaged a 15% increase. Many of these groups have also been allowed to keep what they have for yet an-other year. Groups in the larger segment have been far more inconsistent with some as low as 5% and others as high as 45%. We still only have four main insurers in the group insurance segment at best. In some areas, only one or two are viable options given physician network and rate competitiveness.

“HSA plan designs are making a huge comeback as these plan designs offer premium reduction while allowing employees to save for the future if wanted. ACA compliance remains a tall task for employers to adhere to. We are here to help and have new technology that also helps facilitate tracking where needed. We currently manage group benefits for 9 NCMCA contractors/associates as well as individual and ancillary benefits for several others.”

Mr. Schantz noted the ongoing dispute between Blue Cross Blue Shield and Mission Health Care in Western North Carolina. Pete presented the associa-tion with a $4050.00 check.

TriSure’s John Cramer reported on the Associa-tion liability and workers’ compensation program.

“Masonry volume is steadily increasing in the last nine consecutive quarters and subsequently the volume in our program has increased for the 9th consecutive quarters, but has definitely started to flatten. A trend to subcontract a substantial amount of work has continued to increase among our masonry contractor accounts, which has flat-tened our growth trend. However, we still see signs throughout our construction accounts that growth and expansion is strong.

“We will continue to emphasize the importance of Early Return To Work and Light Duty programs for our clients. Without these programs, injuries can cause Experience Modification Factors to increase dramatically and quickly. This is and will continue to be the key to maintaining low mods.

“Currently, we have 27 participating members. OCIPS/CCIPS continue to impact our premiums, but fewer and fewer are pulling Workers Comp into them, only the General Liability and Umbrella. Still, these programs are pulling substantial premium away from our program especially with larger jobs being enrolled as Wrap-up programs. We still think that without those pulling from our group, we feel we would increase our volumes upwards of 25%.

“The insurance market is definitely stable and very competitive. Best in class accounts are having minimal changes on renewal. We expect this trend to continue throughout 2017 as long as interest rates remain low and the stock market continues to perform. Commercial Auto and Umbrellas are the only lines of coverage that will see some broad rate increase in 2017. Auto is becoming more and more difficult. Please make sure your drivers are not texting while driving!

“Key things to protect your company and future insurance costs: Safety, Early Return/Light Duty programs, written sub contract agreements that are strictly enforced, Institute a no texting while driving policy and enforce it.

Mr. Cramer noted that the effects/costs of recent hurricanes in Florida and Texas “will trickle to the rest of us over the next few years.” He presented the Association with a check for $10,023.00.

President-Elect and Apprenticeship and Training Chairman Kent Huntley reported on the May Sam McGee Memorial Contest at Custom Brick & Supply Company in Raleigh won by Jamison “JK” Huntley. JK will represent North Carolina at the January MCAA Skills Contest at the World of Concrete in Las Vegas. Kent noted that everyone we sent to Vegas in 2017 won their events. The April state SkillsUSA masonry competition in Greensboro was won by Kelby Thorn-ton, who went on to win the national competition for the second year in a row at Louisville.

Former masonry instructor Ryan Shaver, who has been visiting masonry instructors around the state, talked about the National Center for Construction

September Board Meeting Recap

December 2017 NC Masonry News Page 7

of your scaffolding every day and after moving or set up. Have scaffold all clearly tagged for use or service and signed off daily. Most of all, make sure all ladders, bracing, mud sills, footings, base plates, railings, access points and fall zones are perfect on every job, every day.

“OSHA FINES AND PENALTIES- Employers will continue to feel pressure and see an increase in the number of fines from inspections and “Serious Viola-tions” they are charging against employers. There is very little negotiating for removal and reduction of fines. If you feel it is wrong or unfair, chances are you will have to go through a full hearing. We encourage all our masons to call us immediately if they have an inspec-tion with violations and to discuss their rights and alterna-tives.

“OSHA NOTIFICA-TION - ALL Contrac-tors are now required to notify OSHA within eight hours if there is a work related fatality on the job and within 24 hours when an employee suffers a work-relat-ed hospitalization, amputation or loss of an eye.”

Attorney Tom Da-vis discussed addi-tional changes con-tractors should note. No longer legal to offer safety bonuses for “no accidents” or to test for drugs after an accident. Officials say such programs may discourage re-porting. Can reward for training hours completed and random drug testing is okay but must also apply to management. Federal regulations.

Rebranding Committee cochairs Doug Burton and Brandon Hartsell presented a proposed new NCMCA brand mark. The present logo based on the logo of the Western Carolina Chapter, which predates NCMCA. The committee hired Jeffrey Dale/Dale Design, to design a new logo after interviewing two firms. The proposed logo and actual applications using the logo were displayed. Described as “a new feel and a forward thinking feel.” The board voted to make the change to the new logo and branding.

Nominations Committee Chairman Ashlee Moore reported the committee plans to present a slate of officers for the 2018-2020 term in January.

Convention report: The 2017 convention at Charleston was cleared a record amount of almost $ 36,000. $29,500 from sponsors. 186 individuals participated from 18 masonry contracting firms and 25 associate firms The 2018 convention is April 26 to 29 at the Omni Grove Park Inn in Asheville. Site visits are being planned for possible 2019 venues including Greenville, SC and Charleston. Kingston Plantation at Myrtle Beach is also being considered.

Central office report: Membership stands at 134. The Sigmon Memorial Scholarship fund presently holds $13,182.20. Ad sales were down from 2016 for the membership directory. The directory cleared about $3,502.31 in 2017 versus $5,320.14 in 2016.

These firms voluntarily pay as “Leadership Members” (double normal dues) or “Distinguished Members” (double dues and maintain MCAA mem-bership*) Brodie Contractors*, Carolina Masonry Unlimited*, Cherokee Masonry*, Gates Construc-tion*, Huntley Brothers Company, Hydro Clean* (newest), Joyner Masonry Works*, Kirby Construc-tion Services*, LPS Enterprises*, Manning Masonry*, McGee Brothers Company*, Mountcastle Insurance, Pinnacle Masonry*, Rush Construction* , TriSure Corporation, and Whitman Masonry.*

Regional Vice President reports Brandon Hartsell, Central Regional Vice Presi-

dent, updated on activities of the Central Piedmont, Triad and Metrolina chapters saying, “I would like to thank everyone who has helped with each (of these

chapters…) We will only remain a strong organiza-tion if we work together. We have some important state association issues to work on (re-cruitment, new logo, etc.) and we need to remember, all you can do with anything in life is prepare and plan.”

Western Regional Vice President Don Caldwell says the Land of the Sky chapter has consistently worked with several local high schools, participat-ing in career days and visiting masonry classrooms. Five high schools participate in their annual spring competition. The chapter did block foundations for Habitat for Humanity. They meet the third Tuesday of each month at Mills River Restaurant in Arden.

Chapter Reports – Western Carolina Chapter: The Western Chapter has been having monthly meeting attended by 6 to 8 mem-bers. We have had several masonry instructors attend with students as our guests. Our treasury balance is cur-rently just over $7800.00. - Wayne Starr, President

Raleigh Chapter: Many thanks to Ron Williams of CityLink Construction for his 12 years of service as Raleigh chapter president. Ron is stepping down and will be deploying overseas with the NC National Guard. Thank you Ron for your service to our country! Bo Black of Carolina Masonry Unlimited was elected new Raleigh chapter president. Recent meetings: New Crys-talline Silica regulations with HILTI, NCMA/SCMA initiatives update with Frank Werner of Oldcas-tle, Social outing at Bond Brothers Beer Company. Upcoming Chapter Meet-

ings: “Parking Lot Party” hosted by Triangle Brick, New South Supply and Thomas Concrete; Healthcare Update by Pete Schantz of Mountcastle Insurance, Respirable Silica Program implementation discus-sion with NCOSH Consultative. Regular Chapter meetings are held on the first Monday of each month at Peddler Steak House in Raleigh. Chapter meeting attendance averages forty in attendance. Raleigh Chapter NCMCA Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RaleighNCMCA/ - Bo Black, Chapter President

Eastern Carolina Chapter: The Eastern Carolina Chapter, recently reinvigorated, has met twice in 2017; once in June in Kinston & again on September 5th in New Bern. Topics of discussion have mostly revolved around the impending Silica Rule & the current shortages in skilled masons & laborers. Hilti

Power Block! Several Metrolina Chapter area NCMCA masonry contractors are working with the Southeast Concrete Masonry Association (SCMA) and the staff at Mount Pleasant High School on a masonry workforce development initiative at the school. Former masonry instructor Ryan Shaver, now with Johnson Concrete Products, is coordinating six, hour-long “Power Block” sessions conducted during the school day during the 2017 fall semester to introduce students to all aspects of the masonry industry, culminating with a “Career Fair” recruitment event for the last session December 13th. The effort at Mount Pleasant could be a pilot program for implementation at other schools around the state. In the picture, Mount Pleasant students got a ride on some hydraulic scaffolding. Power Block sessions have featured masonry equipment, hands-on instruction, masonry technology and the use of flying drones in the construction industry. Also food. For additional information and to learn how you can participate, contact Ryan Shaver (704) 791-5240. Pho-tograph by Mike Cook

Page 8 NC Masonry News December 2017

reps were present for the June meeting to discuss the new Silica rule. The major focus of the September meeting was how our association can help to en-courage/foster local high school and community college programs. Ryan Shaver presented several key ideas to assist in our endeavors to reconnect with the high school masonry programs. The Eastern Carolina Chapter (met) again on November 14th in Wilmington. Tim Manning arranged a Silica train-ing session/presentation from consultants with the NC Department of Labor, Occupational Safety & Health Division. - Kendra Blackmon, President

Central Piedmont Chapter: Central holds four meetings a year on the second Monday of the month and four socials a year at locations not yet decided on. Meetings held at Bleu Restaurant and Bar, 3425 Frontis Street, Winston Salem. The 2017 Danny Koonts Memorial was one for the record books! Team KIRBY took home First Place. For the chapter’s August social, we reserved a hospitality suite at the Winston Salem Dash Game. Thank you Roanoke Cement, Hohmann & Barnard, and Safe Day for Sponsoring the event! As of August 28, 2017, we have $9,015.22 in checking and $1,141.60 in savings. We look forward to ending this year strong and to continue to promote the best Masonry Industry in the World. - Brent Moore, Vice President

Metrolina Chapter: The Chapter invites you to attend the 2017 NCMCA Masonry Recognition Night! We will recognize those listed who have represented our state on the local, national, and international stage: Zackary McGee, Luis Marquez, Matt Cash, Chet Huntley, Kelby Thornton, Todd Hartsell, Jamison “JK” Huntley, Ellis Baucom, Kaleb McGee, Cory Huneycutt, Eric Kee, and Luke Dutton. Jeff Bucz-kiewicz, President/CEO of the Mason Con-tractors Association of America is the special guest. Our 2017 Golf Tournament will be Wednesday, November 1st,

2017. Finally, I would like to thank the Metrolina Chapter Officers; Greg Huntley (VP), Carson Grief (Secretary), and Justin Bamonte (Treasurer) for helping me to honestly be able to say, there is no “I” in the word Team! When we travel to other parts of this Country and your State is recognized as the Standard, you know you belong to a Strong Organi-zation. - Brandon Hartsell, President

The board approved a $1,000 contribution to a request from John Chrysler, P.E., Executive Director, Masonry Institute of America in California, to fund a project to educate engineers and testing labs on the proper procedures for testing and evaluating test results for mortar and grout. Misunderstanding of the procedure and the standards for testing mortar is a common problem across the country.

There was discussion about NCMCA’s role in helping members comply with silica regulations. Possibly hiring industrial hygienist, testing labs, securing group medical services. California MCA is “all in” and has spent $14,000 so far, expecting to spend much more. Other state masonry associations report they have no plans to develop such programs. Several knowledgeable sources have reservations about possible liabilities the association could develop with such programs.

The board approved a proposal to merge the Eastern Carolina Chapter and the Coastal Chapter into one chapter, including allowing the combined chapter to absorb money held by NCMCA for the in-active Coastal Chapter ($3,992.65) into the Eastern Carolina checking account. The newly combined chapter will cover everything east of I-95.

Doug Burton wants to consider discontinuing the hard copy membership directory, noting the drop in advertising for 2017 and the amount of time devoted to producing the directory. He believes folks now go on line for such information. He asked for the issue

to be considered at the next board meeting. Southeast Concrete Masonry Association Presi-

dent Byard Stevens updated SCMA activities. They expanded into Georgia and picked up three new members there. CMU Check-off has passed from the Senate committee and waiting for a bill to attach it to so it can move to the House.

Gary Joyner, an MCAA Regional Vice President, provided a report on Mason Contractors Associa-tion of American activities. “MCAA is stronger than it has ever been. We have a group of leaders over the last ten years and for the next ten years who really care about the future of our industry. North Carolina is well represented in all MCAA activities. To name a few, National Convention, Mid Year Meet-ing, Legislative Fly In, AND North Carolina leads the nation Foundation pledges. Membership is pushing 1,000 members . The mid year meeting was held in Steamboat Springs, Co. Across the board, most peoples’ opinions are that this is by far the best meeting of the year,. My favorite topic is saving our industry, The Foundation. Currently, we have raised over 3.5 million dollars in pledges. Our initial goal was to reach 5 million, with half of that pledged by masonry contractors. We have all but reached that goal. The Foundation Board wanted to show that the masons have stepped up to the plate in the beginning of the drive. Currently, we have surpassed the million-dollar mark in our investment account. The YTD return in our investment account is over 8%. The allocation is 57% equity, 30% fixed income, and 13% real assets. May I remind everyone, MCAA members across the land are envious of NCMCA .”

It was noted that Gates Construction Company once again brought home a national safety award from the MCAA meeting.

The next board of directors meeting is set for 1:00 PM January 3, 2018 in Greensboro.

Chapters Merge The newly invigorated Eastern Carolina Chapter held their September meeting in New Bern with featured speaker Ryan Shaver. Ryan is with Carolina Stalite and is a past national high school masonry champion, high school masonry in-structor and successful operator of his own masonry contracting business. He has been visiting with high school masonry instructors around the state, listen-ing as they explain the challenges they face and the ideas they have for improving masonry instruction in North Carolina. He shared their comments and his own ideas with chapter members who are ready to help implement the ideas and suggestions. The NCMCA Board of Directors approved consolidating the now-defunct Coastal Chapter (Greater Wilm-ington) with the Eastern Carolina Chapter. the combined chapter held their November meeting in Wilmington. Pictured left to right, Ryan Shaver, Eastern Carolina Chapter President Kendra Black-mon, and NCMCA Secretary-Treasurer Danks Burton.

December 2017 NC Masonry News Page 9

A disproportional number of NCMCA Metrolina Chapter (Greater Charlotte) area masons, appren-tices, and masonry students won awards and contests over the last year and were recognized at a dinner in their honor along with their invited guests.

Honorees received checks and hardware along with official greetings from Mason Contractors Association of America (MCAA) President Jeff Buczkiewicz, NCMCA President Bob Gates, and a representative from NC Eighth District Congressman Richard Hudson’s office. More than 75 members and guests attended the September event in Charlotte.

In the photograph: Top row, left to right- Todd Hartsell, Central Cabarrus High School - SkillsUSA National Champion Kelby Thornton’s instructor and Masonry Expert for the USA WorldSkills Team; Kent Huntley, NCMCA President-Elect and Apprenticeship and Training Committee Chairman, and a partner in Huntley Brother’s Company, the firm with the 2017 NCMCA Annual Samuel A. McGee Apprentice Contest winner; Luke Dutton, McGee Brothers - Luke will represent the United States at the bi-annual 2017 WorldSkills Competition this October in Abu Dhabi, UAE. He is a former National NCMCA SkillsUSA Win-ner; Bob Gates, NCMCA President; Jeff Buczkiewicz, Mason Contractors Association of America (MCAA) President; Kelby Thornton, Central Cabarrus High School - 2017 NC SkillsUSA Masonry Champion, 2017 National SkillsUSA Masonry Champion (Kelby has won both competitions for two years in a row.); Luis Marquez, Huntley Brothers Company - First

Place MCAA Second Year Apprentice Contest, World of Concrete 2017; Brandon Hartsell, NCMCA Regional Vice President and Metrolina Chapter President; Chet Huntley, Huntley Brothers - 2017 “Toughest Tender” SPEC MIX Bricklayer 500.

Bottom row, left to right- Cory Huneycutt, Gates Construction Company - Fourth Place in the 2017 Samuel A. McGee Apprentice Masonry Skills Contest; Eric Kee, McGee Brothers - Fifth Place, in the 2017 Samuel A. McGee Apprentice Masonry Skills Contest; Zackary McGee, McGee Brothers - Winner of the 2016 State Fair Apprentice Contest; Matt Cash, Huntley Brothers - 2017 Champion SPEC MIX Bricklayer 500 “The World’s Best Bricklayer”; Jamison “JK”

2017 Metrolina Chapter Recognition Night

Huntley, Huntley Brothers - David R. Sigmon Award for First Place in the 2017 Samuel A. McGee Apprentice Masonry Skills Contest; Ellis Baucom, McGee Brothers - Second Place in the 2017 Samuel A. McGee Apprentice Masonry Skills Contest; Kaleb McGee, McGee Brothers - Third Place in the 2017 Samuel A. McGee Apprentice Masonry Skills Contest.

Quoted in MCAA’s “Masonry” magazine, Metrolina Chapter President Brandon Hartsell said, “Our state truely is a wonderful place to live and work. North Carolina excels on so many levels but the masonry industry is our crown jewel... The future of our industry lies in the minds and hands of the next generation.”

Page 10 NC Masonry News December 2017

Member NewsPast President Doug Burton’s sons, Doug and

John, are serving in the U.S Army. John is a Second Lieutenant and graduated in June from the Field Ar-tillery Officer Basic Course at Ft Sill, Oklahoma then completed Airborne School at Ft Benning, Georgia. He is stationed at Ft Bragg and assigned to the 82nd Airborne Division. Doug is a First Lieutenant. He graduated from the Infantry Officer Basic Course at Ft Benning and is stationed at Ft Bliss in El Paso, Texas with the First Armor Division. Doug had been on a nine-month deployment in Helmand Province, Afghanistan and returned to the States in October.

Tammy Ellington, longtime companion of Golf Chairman David McQueen, died unexpectedly on August 30th. She was fifty-three and lived in Raleigh. The family suggests memorial gifts be made to Piney Grove United Methodist Church Mission Fund, 2343 Piney Grove Church Road, Siler City, NC 27344.

August marked 25 years for Brodie Contractors. Blake Reep Jr. has retired as masonry instructor

at Iredell Career Academy & Technical School. He taught masonry in Iredell County for 16 years and was in the masonry business for thirty years before he began teaching. The new masonry instructor at the school is William Inscore.

Jeff Yount is the new masonry instructor at Fred T. Foard High School replacing Rick Greene who retired after thirty years.

Triangle Brick Company hosted the Raleigh Chap-ter for an evening of fellowship, food, and music at their Durham office and showroom in September. New South Construction Supply and Thomas Con-crete were co-sponsors.

Kevin Scheele is now with Ram Tool & Supply.2017 marks fifty years for M & N Equipment.Bryan Smith has joined Joyner Masonry Works

as a project manager. Reach him at bryansmith@joynermasonry.com

Several NCMCA member firms participated in

Construction Career Day November 7th and 8th at the Dixie Classic Fair Grounds in Winston-Salem. Among them, Pine Hall Brick and McGee Brothers Company.

In November, architectural and engineering students from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte visited the Adams/Oldcastle CMU manu-facturing plant in Charlotte for the Southeastern Concrete Masonry Association’s (SCMA) fall Block-Fest. Students participated in block plant tours, hands-on block-laying demonstrations and lunch. Among the block-laying instructors were Doc McGee of McGee Brothers Company and Carl Moser and Doby Chapman, both former masons and retired Oldcastle sales representatives.

The November issue of MCAA’s “Masonry” magazine includes articles written by NCMCA Central Region Vice President Brandon Hartsell and Past President Gary Joyner

Josh Thomas of Pyramid Masonry lost his grand-father in November. Glenn Gorham was 81 and lived in Louisiana. He was a seventh generation brick mason. Josh says, “It was a brick mason’s funeral with his tools and pictures of his projects on display.”

In November, architectural and engineering students from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte visited the Adams/Oldcastle in Charlotte for the Southeastern Concrete Masonry Association’s fall BlockFest. Students participated in block plant tours, hands-on block-laying demonstrations.

Land of the Sky Chapter President Gary Kitchen is recovering from serious injuries and extensive surgery as a result of a fall off a roof the Friday after Thanksgiving.

Davis “Dink” Mitchell, Business Development and Field Operations Manager for Gates Construction Company, had surgery in late November for a brain tumor. Dink has been diagnosed with brain cancer and will be undergoing treatments soon. NCMCA President Gates is requesting “thoughts and prayers” for Dink, his family and friends.

Bob Merrill PassesRobert L. Merrill, NCMCA’s fourth president (1977-

1978) and a founding member of the association, passed away November 16, 2017. He was 88 years old and lived in Brevard.

Mr. Merrill founded Merrill Masonry in 1957, the firm his daughter Debbie and her husband Steve Stout continue to operate.

He attended Mars Hill College where, in 1991, he was awarded an Honorary Doctor-ate of Humane Letters in acknowledgment of his long-time service as a benefactor, advi-sor, and trustee for the college.

The community of Brevard benefited from his leadership. Bob served multiple terms on both the Transylvania County Board of Education and County Commissioners. Mr. Merrill delighted in using his construction management skills on many local vol-unteer projects as well as mission trips to Paraguay, Brazil, and the Dominican Republic.

At least twenty masons who worked for him at Merrill Masonry went on, with his help, to form their own masonry companies. He served several terms as President of the Land of the Sky Chapter.

He is survived by his wife of 65 years, Lois, son Dr. Rob Merrill, daughters Debbie Stout and Beth Hamilton, foster son Andre Diaz and numerous grandchildren. He was preceded in death by a son, Scott Merrill as well as a brother, Bryan Merrill, Jr.

The family suggests memorials be made to First Baptist Church of Brevard or the W. Scott Merrill Scholarship Fund at Mars Hill University.

Robert L. Merrill

MCAA Mid-year Meeting North Carolina was well represented at the August Mason Contractors As-sociation of America (MCAA) Mid-Year Meeting in Steamboat Springs, Colorado. Pictured top, left to right, Imani Brodie Surratt, NCMCA Regional Vice President Brandon Hartsell, Past NCMCA President Gary Joyner who serves as an MCAA Regional Vice President, NCMCA President Bob Gates, MCAA Chair-man Mike Sutter, NCMCA Past President Danks Bur-ton and MCAA President Jeff Buczkiewicz. Bottom, left to right, Gary Hensley, Chris Surratt, Mike Cook, Bo Black, and NCMCA Past President Calvin Brodie. Gates Construction Company was recognized with an MCAA Safety Award and Danks Burton played on the team that won the mid-year golf tournament. Imani Brodie won “longest-drive” recognition in the tournament. In committee meetings and general sessions, it is apparent that MCAA is hard at work on behalf of every firm in the masonry business whether they are members of MCAA or not.

December 2017 NC Masonry News Page 11

by Jonathan YokeleyWhen Luke stepped off of the plane he was nearly

7,300 miles from home. The Persian Gulf city of Abu Dhabi was playing host to the 2017 World Skills Competition, where young people from 59 countries came to compete in 51 skill competitions; everything from baking to web site design, to cabinet making. The McGee Brothers foreman was there to compete as one of the 30 best brick layers in the world. The flight to the United Arab Emirates capital was a little over 20 hours, but Luke Dutton’s journey had begun long before that.

Luke was introduced to brick laying in West Rowan High School’s masonry program. There he developed an aptitude for competitive masonry. During his senior year, in 2015, he won the Skills

USA masonry competition at the state level and then advanced to win the national competition in Louis-ville, KY as well. After that final win, and a selection process, Luke was chosen to represent the United States at WorldSkills Abu Dhabi 2017 in brick laying.

While the competition on the world stage was still two years on the horizon, Luke set about continuing to hone his masonry prowess in real world applica-tions laying brick on Nick Cardillo’s crew. Later on he came under the tutelage of Todd Hartsell, as his training expert. In the weeks before leaving for Abu Dhabi, Todd and Luke spent Saturdays building various decorative panels in preparation for the competition. He even made an appearance at the 2017 Skills USA national competition in Louisville and built an exhibition panel. All of this was to have him in at the top of his game when he left for the Middle East.

The brick laying competition was comprised of

three different panels. Each offering an intimidating level of difficulty to truly challenge a mason’s abil-ity. Competitors were given 22 hours across 4 days (3 days at 6 hours and 1 day of 4 hours) to finish their projects. Day 2 offered it’s first hiccup to Luke. “The gable panel had a 4 cm (slightly more than 1 1/2˝) projection at the top of it. It got really wobbly, so I had to slow down a little and it put me a little behind.” He got back on track on day 3. Day 4 threw another curve. “Some of the cuts on the bird just weren’t lining up, and I didn’t have time to cut them again. So, I just went ahead and made sure that I completed the project.” Overall, he finished 25th in the field of 30 masons.

At the end of it all, this talented 20 year-old mason has expanded his repertoire from a unique experi-

ence and perspec-tive that we cannot fathom. “It really was impressive how efficient those guys were. They either had, or would make jigs for a lot of stuff so that it would s tay consis tent . That sort of thing has helped me with my accuracy.” Hav-ing accomplished so much so early on in his career, it is difficult for the imagination to predict where Luke Dutton will be in a decade from now.

Tentatively, the SPEC MIX500 is

always on the horizon. “I would need to train for that for a year or two.” Luke explained, but didn’t rule out the possibility.

One thing is for certain, smart money won’t bet against him.

Reprinted from the McGee Brothers Company newsletter “Around the Block” with permission. Photograph by Todd Hartsell.

Dutton Competes at WorldSkills 2017

Tough Assignment! Luke Dutton with his projects at WorldSkills 2017 Abu Dhabi

Board MeetingThe next NCMCA Board of Directors meeting is

1:00 Wednesday January 3, 2018 at the Courtyard by Marriott, West Wendover Avenue, Greensboro.

The board is made up of the president and vice-president of each local chapter as well as elected state officers. Be sure your chapter is represented. Proxies are not permitted. Board meetings are open to all members however, motions/voting is reserved for board members.

Dates to Note12/12/17 Module Three Certification Class

“Testing, Mortar, Grout” – McGee/Greensboro12/15/17 MCAA Silica Train-the-Trainer Work-

shop - Charlotte1/3/18 Board of Directors Meeting – details

pending, Greensboro1/12-1/14/18 8th Annual Raleigh Chapter

“Murdell” Golf Tournament & Bus Tour 1/21-1/25/18 MCAA Convention/World of Ma-

sonry/Concrete – Las Vegas1/24/18 Masonry Madness Day/Fastest Trowel

on the Block/SPEC MIX Bricklayer 500 – Las Vegas1/31/18 Module Four Certification Class “Struc-

tural Engineering Basics” McGee /Greensboro2/21-2/22/8 Masonry Quality Institute (MQI)

Certification Class. McGee Brothers - Greensboro4/18-4/20/18 NC SkillsUSA State Conference

(masonry contest) Greensboro Coliseum 4/26-4/29/2018 Annual NCMCA Convention,

The Omni Grove Park Inn – Asheville5/4/18 Butch Hardy Memorial High School

Masonry Contest, Adams/Oldcastle - Goldsboro5/19/18 Annual Samuel A. McGee Memorial

Apprentice Contest, Adams/Oldcastle – Charlotte9/27/18 NCMCA Annual Golf Tournament –

details pending 4/9-4/11/19 NC SkillsUSA State Conference

(masonry contest) details pending

Additional details and registration forms are always available on the “Calendar” page of NCMCA.com.

Certification The current series of NCMCA Certification Pro-

gram classes continues in December. Module Three “Mortar, Grout & Testing” is Tuesday December 12 and Module Four “Structural Engineering Basics for Masonry Professionals is Wednesday January 31, 2018, with the rest of the eleven classes scheduled through 2018. The December and January classes are required for all certification applicants.

Masonry Quality Institute (MQI) instructed by Michael Callahan will be presented as part of the NCMCA Masonry Contractors Certification Program class series February 21 & 22, 2018. MQI is a re-quired class for NCMCA Certified Masonry Executive (CME) status and is an elective for Certified Masonry Professional (CMP) status. MQI can also serve as continuing education for certified individuals who have not previously participated in MQI. MQI is expensive and required by only a few individuals seeking CME status. MQI may not be offered in every class series. It is strongly advised that anyone who may consider CME status now or in the future participate when MQI is presented in February

New certifications “Certified Masonry Profes-sional (CMP)” Jesse Bryan Overman, J.B. Overman Masonry; Macy Williams, Brodie Contractors; Jack Phillips, R.E. Harris Mason Contractor, Inc: and Rob Haas, Adams/Oldcastle.

N

Page 12 NC Masonry News December 2017

This Issue Sponsored by

See more pictures from NCMCA events and

activities linked at the NCMCA.com News page

27th Annual NCMCA Golf Tournament The fall golf tournament took place the end of September at the Mill Creek Golf & Country Club in Mebane. A hot day with a record number of participants! The Tourna-ment is the primary funding source for the NCMCA Sigmon Memorial Scholarship Design Competition at Appalachian State University and North Carolina State University. The 2017 tournament was won by the Chandler Concrete team of, left to right with winner’s plaques, Brad Stow, Steve Waltman, Randy Clayton, and Mike Roshelli pictured with NCMCA President Bob Gates. The WireBond team of Charles Byrd, Greg Cochran, John Canitano and Mike Ripley finished second followed by the Holcim team of Lee Amick, Dave Zenns, Greg Jordan, and Carson Greif in third Place. Kyle Holland won the “Par 3 Challenge,”Chris Joyner was recognized for the “Longest Drive” and Steve Waltmon won “Closest-to-the-Pin. The NCMCA Tourna-ment is always the fourth Thursday in September.

Thanks 27th Annual Golf Tournament Sponsors, Volunteers, Participants

Gold Sponsors:Gates Construction CoAdams, an Oldcastle company Brodie ContractorsCustom Brick & Supply CompanyFay Block MaterialsFRACO USAHolcim (US) IncHuntley Brothers CompanyGold Sponsors (continued):Hydro-CleanJohnson Concrete ProductsLehighHansonMountcastle InsuranceNew South Construction SupplyP & D Architectural PrecastSPEC MIX QuikreteTriangle BrickTriSure CorporationTucker-Kirby CompanyRoanoke Cement

Barbecue Chicken:Argos USADanny BattenDanny AlfordDonnie HowardSean Varner

Volunteers:Audra Vaz- ASUHerb Jeffrey’s - Johnson ConcreteJimmy Barnes- Johnson ConcreteAngie Puckett- New South SupplyKelly Hayes- Marshall StoneAustin Babb- Fay BlockJosh Smith- Fay BlockFrank Cox- Adams an Oldcastle companyCheryl Gaw- Adams an Oldcastle companyMatt Mara- General Shale BrickJay Wilson – Scott StonePreston Younger – Pine Hall BrickScott Rideout – LehighHansonTim Gabosch – LehighHansonDanny Batten- ArgosDanny Alford- ArgosDonnie Howard- ArgosSean Varner- Argos

Golf Committee:David McQueen, Chairman – Adams an Oldcastle companyDwayne Bryant- Palmetto BrickChris Mitchell- Adams an Oldcastle company

Rules Committee:Doug Burton- Whitman MasonryDanks Burton- Pinnacle Masonry

Bronze Sponsors:IQ Power ToolsPalmetto Brick CompanyWhitman Masonry

Tee Sponsors:Advanced Building ProductsAppalachian State UniversityAssociated ScaffoldingChandler ConcreteConcept MasonryGates Construction CompanyGiant CementHohmann & BarnardJoyner Masonry WorksKirby Construction Services (2)Lee Brick & TileMarshall StonePine Hall BrickPinnacle MasonryPope’s Masonry GroupThe Sigmon FamilySoutheastern ContractingWhite Cap Construction SupplyWire Bond The 28th Annual NCMCA Golf Tournament: Thursday September 27, 2018