Stones Impact on Mourning and Celebrating

Article by Seth Grove

September has been a tough month.  We lost a member of the quarry community, and we lost three law enforcement officers in a line of duty death in York County.  Let us continue to keep these families in our prayers and lift up their coworkers.

Last week I was at a vigil for our slain officers at Alliance Community Church in Spring Grove, PA where over 50 people attended, some traveling as far as Allentown and Maryland to pay their respects.  The pastor gave a very good sermon discussing the story of Lazarus from John 11:1-44.

If you recall, Lazarus was the brother Mary and Martha and a close friend of Jesus.  Lazarus fell gravely ill and Jesus was called to heal him.  Jesus delayed his visit and Lazarus passes before Jesus’s arrival.  By the time Jesus arrives, Lazarus has been deceased for four days and has already been entombed.  Jesus expresses compassion and assures Martha that her brother would rise again. 

Prior to resurrecting Lazarus, there is a very short but powerful passage, “Jesus wept.” (John 11:35).  This lets us know it is good to mourn.  We should mourn the loss of our loved ones.  Instead of just resurrecting Lazarus Jesus paused and took the time to weep.

After Jesus wept, he went to raise Lazarus from the dead.  But first he removed the stone which laid across the entrance to the tomb of Lazarus.  Stone has always been used to commemorate and honor the fallen.  The greatest civilizations on Earth built their greatest and longest lasting structures using stone.  From the Great Wall of China to the Pyramids of Gaza and to the lost cities underneath our oceans we are still discovering, stone has been the building block of greatness.  Stone has also been used to remember the deceased.  We still use stone today for commemorating our loved ones to time.

The story of Lazarus is the first time stone represents life and eternity. While it foreshadows the resurrection of Jesus, it gave stone a new fundamental meaning.  As we mourn loss of loved ones this month, let’s also celebrate their lives and contributions.  As a stone industry, we must always remember our connection to both loss of life and celebration of life.

PACA Members Getting Calls to Counter Opposition to Legislation

Article by Hank Butler, PACA Lobbyist

PACA Members Getting Calls to Counter Opposition to Legislation

Yes – We Are Becoming That Important!!!!

If you receive a call to counter PACA’s opposition, please refer inquiries to PACA and Hank Butler, Lobbyist, at [email protected].

PACA has expressed opposition to HB 1711 (House Bill 1711) which creates a grant program for using Low Carbon Concrete. HB 1711 was drafted (quite poorly) by Representative Mandy Steele (D-Allegheny) and Representative Andrew Kuzma (R-Allegheny). This legislation was written and introduced without any input from the PACA membership – the only association representing the concrete and ready-mix concrete industry in Pennsylvania.

Besides this significant issue, the poor drafting and inconsistencies in HB 1711 has other concerns which need to be addressed:

• HB 1711 is a $5 million grant program during a budget impasse and the industry has not requested. While the General Assembly is debating a 2025-2026 budget, creating a new program which has not been requested by industry is wasteful. While PACA appreciates the prime sponsors desire to help the Pennsylvania ready-mix concrete industry, a $5 million grant for low carbon concrete is not helpful. A better use of finite tax dollars would be investment into the industry’s workforce through assistance in certifications and training.
• Public projects funded with federal funds will negate the funds invested through HB 1711. The U.S. EPA has dismantled sustainability-focused incentives supporting EPD adoption and continued rollbacks will further reduce demand.
• HB 1711 lacks transparency and accountability. Since the industry has not requested this legislation, we do not know whom or what entity has requested this legislation. We are only aware of similar programs in New York, New Jersey, and Maryland and we have zero outcome data from any of these states.
• HB 1711 and the use of Low Carbon Concrete are in direct conflict with the majority of construction specs.
  
  PACA recommend that this legislation be vetted through hearings rather than moving through the legislative process at this time.
  
  However, Representative Steele and the advocates pushing for green concrete and trying to circumvent the PACA Board of Directors and try to split the PACA membership (without even reaching out to PACA once the opposition piece was released.
  
  If You receive and asked to counter PACA’s Opposition, please refer all inquiries to PACA and Hank Butler, Lobbyist, at [email protected].
  
  Thank you

New Community Meeting Opportunity

We are excited to kick off the new Operations Community with the first of what we hope will be many valuable learning opportunities. One of our key goals is to explore innovation in the workplace—and Luck Stone, in partnership with Caterpillar, has done just that.

Through the integration of autonomous technology, they have transformed their operations in ways that may also inspire improvements for your own. This visit offers a unique opportunity to catch a glimpse of what the future of operations could look like and serves as a powerful example of the cutting-edge technology emerging in our industry.

To attend the tour, please register HERE.

PACA Nominating Committee Announces Board Candidates for 2026

The PACA Nominating Committee is pleased to announce the candidates for the 2026 Board of Directors.

In accordance with ARTICLE VI, Section 4 of the Association’s Bylaws, “Each Active Member shall have the right to cast one vote on all matters coming before the membership meeting. At the time of voting, each Active Member shall designate one representative to cast said vote.”

In accordance with ARTICLE VII, Section 6 of the Association’s Bylaws, “Any member desiring to place additional nominations before the Annual Meeting may do so by submitting in writing such nominations to the President two (2) days prior to the commencement of the Annual Meeting. No nominations shall be accepted from the floor.”

We encourage all active member companies to have a representative present to vote at the PACA Annual Meeting at the Hotel Hershey, Sunday, November 16, 2025 to Tuesday, November 18, 2025.  The results of the election will be announced during the General Membership Meeting on Tuesday morning.

2026 (1-Year Term)
Brandon Groff Pennsy Supply, Inc., a CRH company

2027 (2-Year Term)
Shane Miller Rahns Construction Material Co.

2028 (3-Year Term)
Yonn Barrick Keystone Cement Company
Mark Carroll Allan Myers
Mike Hawbaker Glenn O. Hawbaker, Inc.
Rod Martin Martin Stone Quarries, Inc.
Richard Rohrssen Greer Industries

Honors Program Reminder

REMINDER!

The deadline to submit nominations for recognition at this year's Annual Meeting is THIS FRIDAY, September 26th!

EXCELLENCE IN CONCRETE AWARDS

Each year during the Honors Program, PACA proudly presents its Excellence in Concrete Recognition Awards, honoring outstanding projects that exemplify the best our industry has to offer. These awards celebrate excellence in:

• Commercial Projects
• Residential Projects
• Decorative Concrete
• Other notable projects, companies, or individuals across Pennsylvania

To be considered, please submit all required materials to Ken Crank no later than FRIDAY.

AMBASSADORS OF THE INDUSTRY HALL OF FAME

Established in 2000, the PACA Hall of Fame honors individuals in the aggregates, concrete, and cement industries whose achievements and service have made a lasting impact. Honorees may be recognized for (just to identify a few ideas):

• Long-term company loyalty
• Leadership and innovation
• Commitment to safety
• Community or military service
• Environmental stewardship

Nominate a deserving individual by submitting the completed nomination form to Kallie Kline by FRIDAY.

HONORS PROGRAM RECOGNITION

Since its expansion in 2018, the PACA Honors Program has become a cherished part of the Annual Meeting in Hershey. In addition to the Hall of Fame and Concrete Awards, we want to highlight any special recognitions your company or employees have received — whether national honors or unique company achievements.

Let us celebrate your successes!  If you or your company would like to be included in the 2025 Honors Program, please contact Kallie Kline by FRIDAY.

NOMINATION INFORMATION IS AVAILABLE HERE.

Reserve Your Tabletop at the PACA Annual Meeting

Showcase Your Business at the PACA Annual Meeting

Looking to put your products and services directly in front of industry decision-makers? Reserve a tabletop display at the upcoming Annual Meeting and gain exclusive access to:

 

• Targeted exposure – connect with engaged attendees who are actively seeking solutions and partnerships.
• Quality networking – build new relationships and strengthen existing ones during dedicated exhibit hours.
• Brand visibility – showcase your expertise and ensure your company stands out among industry peers.
• Convenience & value – tabletop displays make exhibiting simple, affordable, and effective.

Space is limited and spots sell quickly—secure your tabletop today and guarantee your place at the center of the action!

To reserve your tabletop, please complete this exhibit form and email it to Kallie Kline.

Concrete Durability Presentation Hosted by Barry Isett & Associates

On September 16, 2025, Barry Isett & Associates’ Allentown office welcomed a hybrid audience for a timely presentation entitled “Specifications and Practices You Can Implement Today to Improve Concrete Durability.” Sixteen professionals attended in person, while another twelve joined virtually, highlighting the strong interest in best practices for concrete performance.

The program, presented by Jim Casilio and Susan Armstrong, emphasized practical steps that designers, specifiers, and contractors can take to extend the life of concrete structures. Key topics included:

• Specifying certified testing personnel to ensure quality control and compliance with industry standards.
• Selecting the proper mix for exterior flatwork to achieve long-term durability in freeze-thaw conditions.
• Using silane or siloxane penetrating sealers as a protective measure to resist moisture intrusion.
• Preventing and minimizing scaling of concrete, a common challenge in the Northeast region.

Participants gained insight into how careful specification and proactive practices can mitigate costly maintenance and repair issues, while also improving sustainability and service life of concrete pavements and structures.

PACA extends appreciation to Barry Isett & Associates for hosting and to all who participated. This session reinforced the value of education and collaboration in advancing durable concrete construction across Pennsylvania.

PACA Technical Communities Virtual Meeting

PACA Technical Communities Virtual Meeting

Thursday September 25, 2025

1:00 – 2:30 pm

Join the meeting now

Meeting ID: 215 648 428 884 7

Passcode: xz2wu6vh

Join us online for an update on the following items as well as an open discussion on valuable information among our producer members:

• Partnership with Penn College
• eTicketing issues or concerns
• signing tickets for antiskid deliveries
• eTicketing from an agent rather than a source
• certifying R-rock
• Updates on the concrete plant technician certification program
• Success of the combined finishers and specifiers classes
• Changes to your aggregate QC plan for shipments to PennDOT Maintenance
• Discussion of a safety issue when breaking concrete test cylinders
• Concrete and Aggregate Technician Certification Classes 2026
• Review of revised documents to address improper field testing
• Participation at ASTM and ACI
• Pending ASR Field History Survey From the PennDOT/PACA ASR Workgroup
• ASR Research Study update
• FHWA/PennDOT Buy American Update September 18, 2025 

PACA's Fall Environmental Community Meeting

PACA's Environmental Community will be meeting at the Volvo facility in Shippensburg, PA, on Thursday, October 2, 2025.  In addition to all of the topics on the agenda, all in attendance will also have the opportunity to tour the Volvo plant - a definite highlight!

To attend the meeting, please register here.

Designing for Durability: PACA Presents at PSPE Annual Conference

The Pennsylvania Aggregates and Concrete Association (PACA) was proud to present at the Pennsylvania Society of Professional Engineers’ Annual Conference, held September 19, 2025 in Allentown, PA. Over 30 engineers attended the session, Designing for Durability, which highlighted the critical role specifications and best practices play in extending the life cycle of concrete structures.

The presentation focused on practical strategies engineers can apply in their designs to enhance durability, including proper material selection, appropriate mix design, quality finishing practices, and the use of protective treatments. Attendees also learned about the importance of certified testing personnel and quality assurance measures to ensure that durable design translates into durable performance in the field.

By emphasizing proven approaches that align with today’s sustainability and resilience goals, PACA’s program gave participants tools they can begin using immediately in their projects.

Specifications and Practices You Can Implement Today to Improve Concrete Durability An Engineer’s Guide to Finishing Concrete

On Monday, September 22, 2025, the Pennsylvania Aggregates and Concrete Association (PACA) hosted a presentation at Derck and Edson in Lititz, PA, focused on practical strategies for enhancing concrete durability. Susan Armstrong, PACA’s Director of Specifications and Sustainability, was joined by Travis Rohrer of Rohrer’s Quarry to deliver the program.

The session, Specifications and Practices You Can Implement Today to Improve Concrete Durability – An Engineer’s Guide to Finishing Concrete, attracted 15 in-person participants and 5 virtual attendees. Discussion centered on key specifications, best practices in concrete finishing, and steps that engineers can take immediately to improve long-term performance in the field.

Attendees gained actionable insights on proper mix design for exterior flatwork, the importance of certified testing personnel, and the role of finishing techniques and protective treatments in extending the service life of concrete.

PennDOT/NECEPT Certified Concrete Field Testing Technician Program

Announcing that the 2026 schedule for the PennDOT Certified Concrete Field Testing Technician Certification classes has been established and posted on the Northeast Center of Excellence for Pavement Technology (NECEPT) website at www.superpave.psu.edu. The schedule of classes, course registration, and directions for participants may be found on the website. Two (2) virtual courses will be held using the WebExTM Platform, between January 29, 2026 and March 26, 2026.

Schedule: Virtual courses will be held starting in January 2026 and ending in March 2026. The course schedule, course registration, course agenda, and the exam retest registration are available on NECEPT’s website at www.superpave.psu.edu under the Training menu.

The 2026 Concrete Packet hyperlink below contains an example of NECEPT’s concrete certification expiration letter employees will receive, important program highlights and administrative policies, 2026 course schedule, and course agenda.

Course Fee: The 2026 course fee is $90 per person.

Please see the hyperlinks below for the 2026 schedule of classes and registration information.

2026 Concrete Field Packet

2026 PennDOT/NECEPT Aggregate Technician Certification Program

Announcing the 2026 PennDOT/NECEPT Aggregate Technician Certification Program. 

In response to the FHWA mandate that states establish programs to have qualified concrete, aggregate and asphalt technicians working on federally funded construction projects, PennDOT partnered with the Northeast Center of Excellence for Pavement Technology (NECEPT) at The Thomas D. Larson Pennsylvania Transportation Institute, The Pennsylvania State University to administer the Aggregate Technician Certification course. The Aggregate Technician Certification courses will be held at the Department’s Materials and Testing Laboratory in Harrisburg, PA.

All courses will be held starting in January 2026 and ending in March 2026. All courses will be held in person.

The course schedule, NECEPT FAQs, and program highlights can be downloaded from NECEPT’s Internet Website at http://www.superpave.psu.edu/ under the Training menu.

Course Fees: The 2026 Aggregate Technician Certification Course fee is $95.00.

The 2026 Aggregate Technician Certification Renewal Card fee is $40.00.

The 2026 Aggregate Technician Certification Retest fee is $35.00.

Attendance: Each District/Bureau should assess their needs for certified aggregate technicians and schedule attendees accordingly as permitted in the table below.

PA Turnpike Materials Unit - Management Transitions

Article by Chris Forry, Materials Management Supervisor, Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission - WRO

During the past 6 months there have been some changes in personnel assignments in PTC Materials Unit.

• Brian Paroda accepted the PTC Materials Lab Supervisor position on March 21st, 2025. Brian continues to work out of the PTC Materials Lab in Somerset.
• Andrew (Andy) Stultz filled the Materials Manager position at the PTC Materials Lab in Somerset, vacated by Brian Paroda, on July 7th, 2025.
• James Kelley filled the Central Materials Manager position vacated by Andy Stultz on Sept. 15, 2025.
• Mike Adams will fill the East Materials Manager position vacated by James Kelley on Monday September 29th, 2025.
• Bob Clifford, West Materials Manager, continues to cover the West Materials Region. (MP 110 Somerset west to the Ohio line)
   

Moving forward, Mike Adams will be working with James Kelley, as he transitions into his new position. Mike will handle all materials related asphalt plant, aggregate plant, and redi-mix plant inspection for the eastern region of the PTC. (East Materials Region – Lebanon/Lancaster MP 266 east to Delaware River Bridge and NE Extension.) James will manage the asphalt plant, aggregate plant, and redi-mix plant inspection for the central region (Central Materials Region – MP110 Somerset east to MP 266 Lebanon/Lancaster) and precast/prestress plant inspection for the central and eastern regions.

Hopefully, this information will allow you to better communicate with the PTC Materials Unit.

If you have any questions regarding these changes, please contact me. Thank you for your understanding, as we complete this transition of personnel within the PTC Materials Unit.

Chris Forry

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