The fourth annual SPEC MIX Bricklayer 500 contest, a part of MASONRY CONSTRUCTION magazine's Mason' Challenge series of events held January 16-20, 2006 in Las Vegas, highlighted the abilities of the construction industry's most skilled workforce. Patrick Baxter of Summit Concrete & Masonry, North Branch, Minn, capture the title of Nation's Best Bricklayer by placing 780 brick in 60 minutes. The craftsmanship Award, which goes to the competitor who places at least 500 brick and creates the best wall recognized by the judges, went to Bill Morrisette, Morrisette Masonry, Chickemaugo, Ga. Meanwhile, the contestant for the Toughest Tender competition were required to set up their stations to match a designated configuration. The Toughest Tender Award, which goes to the competitor who sets up the work area properly and safely in the fastest time, went to Mike Luthi of Quikrete Wisconsin, Hartford, Wisc.