Before making my way to the ACPA OK/AR Chapter’s Arkansas Concrete Conference in Hot Springs, AR, I was in Palm Springs, CA where the desert experienced an unusual tropical storm downgraded from the even more unusual Hurricane Hilary. While certain areas of San Diego, Los Angeles, and Palm Desert endured catastrophic flooding, we should pause to marvel at the infrastructure that admirably performed because of quality engineering and contractor craftsmanship. Many of the washes and roadways held strong, just as they were designed to, despite the flowing water from the mountains and torrential downpour. What I witnessed was a nearly unprecedented act of nature being handled by proper construction and selection of the right materials. THAT IS RESILIENCY! And that, in part, is concrete at work. Our thoughts continue to be with the people of Southern California, as well as Hawaii, who are putting their communities back together after rare and horrific acts of nature. God speed, my friends.

On a lighter note, thank you to CEMEX who hosted contractors in Napa Valley, CA for a wine tour as part of the Beaverdilly (Dam Builders) Event. CEMEX showed appreciation for their customers and the industry, while talking about their commitment to sustainability. Thank you again to them and ACPA member Pulice for making the event memorable and worthwhile.

Of significance this week, ACPA has opened its registration for Annual Meeting in Marco Island, FL December 12 – 14. Get those hotel rooms booked, as rates outside of the room block will significantly increase. Book early as this event is ACPA’s 60th Anniversary and we intend to have unique and special content including hearing from AASHTO Executive Director Jim Tymon, Former Chairman of the House of Representatives Transportation and Infrastructure Committee Bill Shuster (R-PA) will moderate a panel of DOT executives and new Concrete Paving University sessions. Also – Calling All Past ACPA Chairmen, please email Anna McMullen at amcmullen@acpa.org if you intend to attend this year’s Annual Meeting. We plan to honor your past and continued commitment to the association and the industry. Lastly, Friday is the last chance to submit for the distinguished service awards, more information on that below along with information on the ACPA Airport Workshop, sponsorship and more!