Memorial Day weekend is the unofficial start of summer, promising strong demand for our industry. But let’s not forget to reflect on the importance of this solemn day. Strictly an American holiday, we observe Memorial Day on the last Monday of May, honoring the men and women who died while serving in the U.S. military. The holiday has roots from the years following our nation’s Civil War, but wasn’t officially named Memorial Day until 1971 when Congress passed an act declaring it a national holiday. That same year, Memorial Day was moved from May 30 to the last Monday in May by President Lyndon B. Johnson. The President noted, “this will…enable families who live some distance apart to spend more time together.”
With the entire globe seemingly re-opening at once, demand for construction materials is sky high. This presents new opportunities to sell the benefits of concrete, while showcasing our industry’s commitment to sustainability and community outreach. Through our committee work, the CRMCA is focused on bringing you, our members, the value you’ve come to expect. This summer we’ll provide opportunities for networking, training and education, certification, legislative influence, volunteer opportunities, and industry news. Here’s what we’re up to:
Governmental Affairs
- Global Warming Potential For Public Project Materials. CRMCA Executive Director, Todd Ohlheiser, and NRMCA’s SVP, Sustainability, Codes and Standards, Tien Peng, provided expert testimony on Colorado HB21-1303, Global Warming Potential For Public Project Materials on May 20.
- Sustainability Of The Transportation System. SB21-260, backed by Gov. Jared Polis, would create new sources of transportation funding totaling $3.8 billion over the next decade. On May 17, the Colorado State Senate voted 20-15, to advance the bill to increase transportation funding. One provision in the bill would tap an existing source of state revenue for transportation. Specifically, $507 million in one-time funding would come from the state’s general fund for fiscal year 2021-22. Additionally, the State Highway Fund would receive $355.2 million. Another $24 million would go to local governments. The remaining $127.8 million would be directed for multimodal uses.
Events
- Virtual, In-Person & Hybrid Meetings and Conferences Survey. As we look forward to meeting again in person, we need your feedback to shape our future meetings and events. In order to craft events and meetings that best represents our members and partners, we are asking you to complete a brief survey. The Virtual, In-Person & Hybrid Meetings and Conferences Surveywill take approximately 5 minutes to complete and your feedback is invaluable. Please complete the survey by Wednesday, June 9.
- Habitat for Humanity Builder Blitz Volunteer Opportunity. BWS CO along with Open Range Construction and Habitat for Humanity of Teller County will be hosting a Builder Blitz on June 7, 2021. Volunteers will gather to stack Insulated Concrete Form (ICF) walls and observe a concrete pour to complete the walls all in one day! BWS CO is calling all CRMCA members to come out and join us for a day of stacking block, collaboration, and a meal. If you or anyone with your company is interested in being involved with this exciting project, please RSVP here or reach out to Emma Dolan.
- Summer Social Networking. Join the CRMCA and the Colorado Stone, Sand & Gravel Association for our first in-person networking event of 2021! The event will be held at Ace Eat Serve on Tuesday, June 15 and cocktails and appetizers will be served. Register here.
- Summer Conference. This year’s event is scheduled for August 12-13 at the Grand Hyatt Hotel and EagleVail Golf Course in Vail, CO. Details are available here.
We would love to see you at one of our upcoming meetings or events. Your commitment to volunteering is truly what sets us apart. Until then, enjoy this wonderful time in our beautiful state. And proudly fly your American Flags in honor of those who made the ultimate sacrifice.
Cole Jacobs, Martin Marietta
Board President, Colorado Ready Mixed Concrete Association
