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By Jerry M. Painter, Masonry Association of Florida 2017 Chairman

Welcome to my world! And before you ask what a ticket to my world costs or how much the travel expenses are to get there, let me explain what my world is. It is not as glamorous as big game hunting, marlin fishing, or skydiving.

My world is the World of Codes and Standards. While many of you are asking what in the blazes I’m talking about, let me explain.

Our lives are governed by many codes. Most everyone has their own personal or business association “Code of Ethics.” A code is a system of rules of conduct or procedures. When a “code” is accepted by a governmental body, it becomes law by either inclusive writing of the code or by reference. Such is the case of the International Building Code (IBC). A building code is considered a life/safety document for obvious reasons.

​Read the entire article: Masonry Magazine: Painter's Corner
Reprinted from Masonry Magazine: http://www.masonrymagazine.com/​

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On Wednesday January 11, 2017, the Masonry Association of Florida was invited to a Masonry Open House sponsored by the Florida Department of Corrections and the Florida Masonry Apprenticeship and Educational Foundation. Baker Correctional Masonry Instructor Robert S. Melgaard invited the MAF members and Masonry Contractors from North Florida to visit his classroom and masonry practice area.

The Open House was a great success with 21 people attending.  Attendees included: Jim Painter from the Florida Concrete & Masonry Educational Foundation; Jerry Painter representing the MAF; Bill Lauver from the Department of Education Apprenticeship Division; Al Herndon from the FMAEF; and, three representatives from RD Masonry in Jacksonville, including Owner Joe Bucher, Mike Bosshart and Ted Cleland. Capital Concrete & Masonry Solutions Project Manager Paul Rivers; Tom Taylor from Taylor Concrete; and Steve Meggs from ARGOS attended the program.  Also present were 3 area masonry instructors: Mike Beville, Derwin Bass and Robert T. Melgaard. There were two representatives from Florida State College of Jacksonville: Carissa Gardner and Lindsay Bowen. Operation New Hope’s Linda Mack was there as well as Dwaine Sweet from the CareerSource NE Florida.

After completing the check-in process, the attendees were taken on a tour of the Department of Corrections education facility. The group observed how inmates are screened, which education programs are available for them, and how masonry students are selected for Mr. Melgaard’s class.
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When the tour was completed, the attendees had the opportunity to meet and speak with the masonry students in the masonry Lab. The visitors also saw the students’ hands on projects. Robert Melgaard, Al Herndon, Jim Painter spoke to the students and participants. Jerry Painter gave an excellent presentation to the inmates on what it will take for them to come into the masonry trade and urged them to put the masonry skills they have learned in Mr. Melgaard’s class go to good use. Jerry’s presentation was certainly well received by the students and everyone present. After a question and answer period, the attendees had a working lunch provided by the Department of Corrections Culinary Department.

​For more information contact Al Herndon [email protected]