Events

CMHA Midyear Meeting: Day 3 Recap

Day 3 of CMHA’s Midyear Meeting began with a series of focused and productive sessions. The MSV Marketing Subcommittee, Segmental Pavement Technical Subcommittee, MSV Technical Subcommittee, and Membership & Meetings Committee met throughout the morning, engaging in meaningful dialogue and collaborative discussions on key updates and ongoing projects. These sessions set the stage for continued success in our initiatives.

Following the morning’s discussions, members had the opportunity to explore the vibrant city of Ottawa. Whether indulging in local culinary delights or discovering the city’s rich history and culture, attendees experienced the best of what Ottawa has to offer. The day concluded with the eagerly awaited Night Out – Ottawa, where members gathered for an evening filled with entertainment and camaraderie.

Members Explore Ottawa

Sixteen attendees joined the C’est Bon Food Tour, embarking on a delightful culinary journey through Ottawa. The tour kicked off at The Grand, where participants enjoyed Margarita Pizza with their choice of Sangria, wine, or beer. They then savored Korean BBQ Cauliflower Wings, poutine, and various drinks at Pure Kitchen. The group continued to Shafalo for a flavorful Tikka Chicken Wrap, followed by a refreshing Bohemian Raspberry Tea at The Tea Store. The sweet finale featured gourmet cupcakes at The Cake Lounge, with Peaches & Cream and Apple Dulce de Leche as the favorites. The tour concluded with a classic Killaloe Sunrise BeaverTail at Byward Market.

The brewery tour was another standout, drawing a large and enthusiastic crowd. Participants visited several local breweries, where they learned about the beer-making process, from brewing techniques to ingredient selection. Along the way, they sampled a variety of local brews, discovering new favorites while enjoying the region’s flavors. The tour also offered an ideal setting for informal networking, allowing members to relax and strengthen connections in a laid-back atmosphere.

For those on the walking tour, attendees witnessed the changing of the guard at the War Memorial, visited Parliament Hill and Major’s Hill Park, and toured Notre Dame Basilica. The group then boarded a coach bus for a city tour that included stops at Rideau Hall, the Village of Rockcliffe Park, and the Experimental Farm. The tour also ventured into Gatineau, Quebec, before returning to Ottawa via the Portage Bridge, concluding with a scenic drive along historic Wellington St. This immersive experience left attendees with lasting memories of Ottawa’s rich history and scenic beauty.

The Emerging Professionals Group (EPG) networking event was a resounding success, uniting the next generation of industry leaders for an evening of meaningful connections and enjoyable interactions. This gathering provided emerging professionals with the perfect opportunity to engage, share insights, and forge lasting relationships within the industry. The atmosphere was vibrant, with attendees eagerly discussing their experiences, aspirations, and reconnecting with peers. If you or someone you know is an emerging professional, join us next month in Milwaukee for our EPG’s Fall Workshop!

Night Out – Ottawa

The week’s main event, sponsored by CMHA’s Associate Members, was a highlight of the evening. Attendees mingled and networked while enjoying an array of hors d’oeuvres, food stations, and desserts, all complemented by expertly crafted cocktails. Some of the exhibits at the National Gallery of Canada were open for viewing, offering participants the chance to explore and learn more about the gallery’s unique art collections. The evening’s entertainment kept the energy high, culminating in a breathtaking city-sponsored fireworks display viewed from a perfect vantage point. It was a night of connection, discovery, and celebration that left a lasting impression on everyone who attended.


If you missed out on highlights from the week, check out recaps from Day One, and Day Two at CMHA’s Midyear Meetings!

CMHA Midyear Meeting: Day 2 Recap

Members kicked off day two of CMHA’s Midyear Meeting with a packed schedule of committee meetings. The CMU Marketing and Technical Subcommittees, Hardscapes Construction, Education, Certification, Hardscapes Marketing, SRW Technical, Emerging Professionals Group, and Government Affairs committees all gathered to drive the industry forward. These groups focused on advancing discussions from the Annual Meeting, charting the course for the coming months, sharing updates from task groups, and addressing key industry issues.

Highlights from day two included a Breakfast Book Talk for spouses, offering a space for meaningful discussion and connection. Concrete Women Connect brought together women in the industry, providing a platform for networking, sharing experiences, and supporting professional growth. The day concluded with the Block & Paver PAC Reception, another valuable opportunity for members to engage, build relationships, and exchange ideas.

Concrete Women Connect

At the Concrete Women Connect event, nearly 40 remarkable women from the masonry and hardscape industry came together to network and share their experiences working in construction. The session focused on the importance of finding a mentor, navigating a career in construction, and balancing the demands of work and family life. Andrea McChesney, Executive Director of the Canadian Concrete Masonry Producers Association, was the featured speaker and she shared her own career journey, emphasizing the value of mentorship and addressing the unique challenges women face in the construction industry.

Block & Paver PAC Reception

The CMHA’s Block and Paver PAC Reception is a highly anticipated annual event that brings members together for a meaningful cause. PACs, as tax-exempt organizations, are dedicated to supporting candidates who share their policy goals, rather than engaging in partisan politics. PACs amplify a collective message by uniting individual voices, driving their agenda with greater force. This evening, members gathered to enjoy a night of camaraderie, all while contributing to a shared mission and participating in exciting prize opportunities.

It was another successful day at the Midyear Meeting, filled with impactful discussions and valuable connections. We’re excited for what tomorrow’s activities will bring as we continue to build on the momentum.


Check out highlights from day one at CMHA’s Midyear Meeting!

Concrete women connect
Members at MM
Members activity in Ottawa
Members post at meetings
Women in industry
Members networking
Committee members

CMHA Midyear Meeting: Day 1 Recap

The 2024 CMHA Midyear Meeting officially kicked off today in Ottawa, Canada, bringing members together for a dynamic week of collaboration and connection. Day one was packed with activity. From key committee meetings to multiple town halls to welcome attendees, members also took advantage of valuable networking opportunities in between sessions.

Hardscapes Town Hall

The Hardscapes Town Hall brought together members interested in SRW and segmental concrete pavements, offering valuable insights into the latest industry developments. Key highlights included a presentation by Prof. Jennifer Drake on her PICP research in Canada, focusing on cold weather performance, pollutant reduction, and maintenance techniques.

She addressed the common misconception of “Frost Teeth,” stating, “It’s a myth for permeable pavements. It’s not something that they’re susceptible to.”

Prof. Drake also discussed the impact of U.S. federal policies in driving the industry forward and highlighted how permeable pavements help mitigate urban flooding by “reducing the volume, reducing peak flows, and delaying runoff.” She emphasized that flooding is “an issue of timing—too much in the same space at the same time.”

In her concluding remarks, Prof. Drake pointed to research showing that permeable pavements can “reduce the risk of slips and falls on outdoor pavements in the winter as long as they’re maintained properly,” making them a valuable asset in colder regions.

Dave Hein, P. Eng., shared findings from the Future Research Focus Group meeting sponsored by the ICPI Foundation, covering design, materials, and maintenance, and was honored with the CMHA Industry Champion Award for his efforts in promoting segmental concrete pavements. Gabriela Marscal, CMHA’s Division Engineer, introduced the newly released SRWall 5 software, showcasing its enhanced functionality, and Wayne Villaluna wrapped up the session by discussing hot topics that will be discussed at the Hardscape subcommittees, encouraging members to engage in the meetings this week.

Masonry Town Hall

The Masonry Town Hall speakers discussed the latest developments in the masonry industry. Adam Auer, President of the Cement Association of Canada, addressed the Canadian concrete industry’s efforts to tackle carbon-related issues and their market impacts.

He also outlined Canada’s strategy and highlighted crucial actions such as collaborating with governments to shape industrial policy and fostering education and engagement, drawing strong interest from the group.

“The competitiveness of our industry is at risk if we don’t stay ahead of the climate conversation. There is a global move to address the climate crisis – if we don’t define what net zero and sustainability mean to our sector, others will define it for us.”



Andrea McChesney, CCMPA Executive Director, and Bennett Banting, Director of Technical Services with the Canada Masonry Design Centre, provided an overview of Canadian masonry activities. Kim Spahn, CEO of the CMU Checkoff Program, shared updates on new marketing initiatives and introduced the director of the National Design Center, and Jeff Buczkiewicz, President/CEO of the Masonry Contractors Association of America, updated attendees on their recent efforts. Attendees were encouraged to participate in Masonry Market Segment subcommittees this week for further insights into the industry.

Member Networking Events



First-time attendees and new members were welcomed with a dedicated gathering designed to introduce them to the CMHA community and the Midyear Meeting experience. This special session provided insights into the structure and purpose of CMHA meetings, offering guidance on how new members can get involved in various initiatives and make the most of their membership. It also served as an excellent networking platform, allowing newcomers to connect with fellow industry professionals, share experiences, and build relationships in a more intimate setting.

After the breakout town halls, where members delved into focused discussions on hardscapes and masonry, everyone reconvened for the Member Networking Reception. This evening event was a highlight of the day, offering a relaxed atmosphere where members could gather, enjoy fellowship, and strengthen connections with peers from across the industry. The reception underscored the value of community within CMHA, providing both seasoned members and newcomers with a chance to forge new relationships and reinforce existing ones, setting the stage for further collaboration throughout the week.


Don’t forget to download CMHA’s event app to access committee meeting materials, agendas, schedule of events, connect with fellow members, and more!

Two men at Midyear Meeting
Young women EPG members
EPG members
CMHA Town Hall
Members
Members checking in
CMHA members
Members at CMHA Town Hall
Members at Midyear
Midyear Meeting Networking

Ready, Set, Let’s Go to Ottawa! A Travel Prep Guide for CMHA’s Midyear Meeting

Get ready for CMHA’s Midyear Meeting in Ottawa August 12-15 by planning your travel in advance! We’ve gathered a range of options to make your journey to the beautiful capital city of Ottawa both easy and affordable. Whether you’re flying directly to Ottawa or connecting through Montreal, you have plenty of ways to reach your destination.

Airfare Discount

CMHA has partnered with Air Canada to offer our members discounted airfare to Ottawa! Use the exclusive discount code GZ6UN7A1 on aircanada.com to save on your flight to Ottawa (YOW). Book early to secure the best rates!

Travel by Bus

If you’re arriving at Montreal-Trudeau Airport, consider taking a bus to Ottawa. The journey takes about 3 hours, with ticket prices ranging from $22 to $49 depending on seat accommodations and booking platform. Enjoy the scenic route and relax on your way to the meeting.

Travel by Train

For a quicker option, take the train from Montreal-Trudeau Airport. A short 6-minute ride will get you to Dorval Train Station, where you can catch a train to Ottawa. The 2-hour commute brings you to Ottawa Train Station, just a 10-minute drive from The Westin Ottawa Hotel. Train tickets are estimated at $40, offering a comfortable and efficient travel experience.

Rent a Car or Rideshare

Prefer to drive? Check out the CMHA Travel Forum to coordinate a car rental or rideshare with fellow members. Enjoy great company and share travel costs while you journey from Montreal to Ottawa.

Don’t Forget to Check Your Passport!

As you prepare for CMHA’s upcoming Midyear Meeting in Ottawa, it’s crucial to ensure your travel documents are in order. One of the most important steps is to check your passport. Verify that your passport is not only valid but also has at least six months remaining before its expiration date, as many countries require this for entry. Additionally, confirm that you have any necessary visas or travel authorizations for Canada. Taking the time now to review and update your passport can save you from potential travel disruptions and ensure a smooth journey to Ottawa. Don’t let an overlooked passport issue stand in the way of your participation in this pivotal event—check it today and travel with confidence!

With so many travel options available, you can choose the one that best fits your schedule and budget. For more details and to access exclusive discounts, visit our website and make your travel arrangements today!

Discover Ottawa’s Best: Exciting Activities at the CMHA Midyear Meeting!

Get ready to explore Ottawa in a way you’ve never experienced before! At this year’s CMHA Midyear Meeting, we’re offering three exclusive activities on the open afternoon of Wednesday, August 14. Whether you’re attending solo, with a spouse, or bringing a guest, there’s something for everyone. Choose one of these fantastic options if you haven’t already selected an activity to explore Ottawa. But remember, you can only pick one—so choose wisely!

1. Walking/Bus Tour of Historic Ottawa
Time: 12:30 – 4:00 PM | Cost: $35/person

Parliament Hill in Canadian capital Ottawa

Dive deep into Ottawa’s rich history with Conrad from Tours by Locals. As a lifetime resident and tour guide for nearly 40 years, Conrad’s passion for Ottawa is unmatched. This tour is perfect for history buffs and those wanting a comprehensive view of the city.

Highlights:

  • Walk to the War Memorial for the changing of the guard ceremony
  • Explore Parliament Hill and Major’s Hill Park
  • Tour the stunning Notre Dame Basilica
  • Enjoy a bus ride to iconic sites like Rideau Hall, Rockliffe Park, and the Rideau Canal
  • Snap photos at the Experimental Farm’s ornamental gardens
  • Discover Little Italy, Chinatown, and Gatineau
  • End back at the Westin by 4:00 PM

2. Walking Food Tour of ByWard Market
Time: 1:00 – 3:30 PM | Cost: $99/person

Ottawa Food Tour

Foodies, this one’s for you! Join us for a delectable journey through ByWard Market, sampling flavors from Ottawa’s best local food spots. This walking tour is a feast for both your taste buds and your cultural curiosity.

Highlights:

  • Sample foods from 6 local establishments: 3 savory, 1 refreshment or farmers market sampling, and 2 sweet
  • Indulge in Canadian favorites like poutine and BeaverTails™
  • Enjoy TWO alcoholic beverages (beer or wine) or non-alcoholic substitutes
  • Gain insights into the history and culture of the ByWard Market area

3. Ottawa Brewery Tour
Time: 1:00 – 5:00 PM | Cost: $125/person

Ottawa Brewery Tour

Beer enthusiasts, rejoice! Explore Ottawa’s vibrant craft beer scene on this guided brewery tour, sponsored by Solomon Colors and Prosoco. This 4-hour bus tour includes visits to three local breweries, complete with behind-the-scenes access and plenty of samples.

Highlights:

  • Visit 3 carefully selected breweries
  • Enjoy behind-the-scenes tours at two stops, sampling a variety of beers including pilsners, IPAs, and darker brews
  • Network with fellow attendees at the final brewery, enjoying a full draft pour of your choice
  • All-inclusive package: transportation, sampling fees, a light snack, and educational sessions

Note: Must be 19 years or older to attend.

Spaces for these exclusive activities are limited, so make sure to sign up early to secure your spot. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a food lover, or a craft beer aficionado, there’s an activity tailored just for you. Don’t miss this opportunity to make the most of your time in Ottawa—choose your adventure and register today!

Complete information about CMHA’s Midyear Meeting is available online.

2024 HNA Awards Now Accepting Entries

Entries for the 2024 Hardscape North America (HNA) Awards are now being accepted. The popular annual awards program honors outstanding residential and commercial hardscape projects in nine different categories. Entries feature hardscaping designs for walkways, patios, pool decks, outdoor living kitchens and living spaces, and driveways as well as commercial plazas and streets.

Award winners will be recognized during the Hardscape North America trade show, October 16-18 in Louisville, KY. The HNA Awards Ceremony will take place at the Kentucky Exposition Center on October 17. Winners and honorable mention recipients will be featured on the HNA website and in several industry publications.

Eligible projects for the 2024 HNA Awards include both residential and commercial projects across various categories, with new categories introduced this year. This expansion allows for a broader range of entries, showcasing the diverse talent and innovation within the hardscape industry.

2024 Award Categories:

  • Segmental Concrete Pavement
  • Clay Brick Pavement
  • Porcelain Paver Pavement
  • Combination of Hardscape Products
  • Retaining Walls
  • Adhered Thin Veneers
  • Natural Stone Pavement
  • Outdoor Living Features
  • Vintage Installation

Complete rules and requirements are available online. Projects are assessed based on design excellence, craftsmanship, construction, and compatibility. The entry deadline is August 23.

The HNA Awards are produced by the Concrete Masonry & Hardscapes Association (CMHA) and endorsed by the Brick Industry Association (BIA) and the Natural Stone Institute (NSI).

Learn more about the 2024 HNA Awards program including our new login experience.

Check out the 2023 HNA Awards Winners and Honorable Mention Recipients!

Momentum Builds After Successful Annual Meeting in Denver

The city of Denver was the perfect host for CMHA’s 2024 Annual Meeting, which took place February 5-8 in Denver, CO. Our nearly 400 attendees participated in committee meetings, received updates from association leaders on strategic initiatives, heard from featured speaker Jeremey Bess of ITR Economics during the General Session, had the opportunity to hear three innovative presentations during the Innovative Technology Forum, networked at several events including the Wednesday night social event, attended a fantastic plant tour and more! 

This meeting set the pace for the association and its members for the rest of the year. Read more about initiatives from committee meetings, calls to action for our members, and what industry events CMHA is attending next.

Emerging Professionals Group Meets in Tennessee

The event consisted of two days of speakers, tours, and networking among young industry professionals. Speakers included Rick Insell, Head Women’s Basketball Coach at Middle Tennessee State University, Jon Huddleston, Concrete Industry Management (CMI) Associate Professor Middle Tennessee State University, Steve Honey, Lee Building Products Sales Manager of 37 years, and Adam Nuse, Senior VP of Business Operations for the Tennessee Titans. The speakers also took part in a concrete professional panel and discussed successes and lessons learned during their time in the workforce.

The EPG event served as an opportunity for attendees to share ideas, information, and stories in a relaxed environment. Learn more about EPG.

 

Hardscape Installation Draws a Crowd at the National Collegiate Landscape Competition

From March 16-19, 2022, students from across the United States gathered at the North Carolina State University for the 46th Annual National Collegiate Landscape Competition (NCLC) organized by the National Association of Landscape Professionals (NALP).

The NCLC is the largest national competition and career recruitment event for college students studying horticulture and landscaping, with approximately 530 students from 41 colleges competing each year in 31 events. Students demonstrate their skills in tree climbing, patio building, identifying horticulture specimens, skid steer operation, sales presentations, exterior/interior design, irrigation troubleshooting, wood construction, and more.

On March 16, students attended workshops to sharpen their knowledge and abilities on a wide range of topics related to the landscape industry and completed qualification exams that would allow them to participate in the competitive events. A Career Fair started on March 17 which several ICPI members participated including Belgard, Ewing, Grunder Landscaping Co., Lifescape, Para Space Landscaping, Permaloc, SiteOne, Southview Design, and Weller Brothers Landscaping. In the afternoon competitive event briefings were held to inform the students about the details, procedures, and requirements of the events. On March 18 each student was allowed to participate in up to three events. ICPI staff provided support for the workshop, competition briefing, and hardscape installation event.

In the Hardscape Installation event, 31 teams constructed an 8 ft x 8 ft interlocking concrete pavement patio in a basketweave pattern with a soldier course and L-shaped seat wall. Teams were given 110 minutes to compete the task. All teams did well, and each fought the clock right to the very last second. Afterwards each installation was evaluated by a team of judges and scores were awarded for accuracy, structural soundness, site cleanup, and safety. In the end the following students/schools were named the Top 3.

HARDSCAPE INSTALLATION

First Place

UNIVERSITY OF MASSACHUSETTS – AMHERST

JOSEPH CONTARDO and AMANDA RAMSDELL

Second Place

COLUMBUS STATE COMMUNITY COLLEGE

OWEN FORCHIONE and AJ MCCOY

Third Place

SUNY COBLESKILL

MICHAEL FASANELLA and NICHOLAS KIMBALL

Belgard and Permaloc will be sponsoring the first and second place teams to compete at Hardscape North America, October 19-21, in Louisville KY, in the 2022 HNA Installer Championship.

ICPI staff also took the opportunity to promote the licensing of the Concrete Paver Installer Course to schools that are currently not qualified to teach the course to their students.

Landscape and horticulture graduates are in high demand. The chronic workforce shortage in the landscape industry means there is plenty of opportunity for students to select their desired career paths and locations. The NCLC brings students and companies together to build a strong future for the industry.

Training at NCLC
Hardscape Installation First Place Team: UNIVERSITY OF MASSACHUSETTS – AMHERST
First-Place Finishers, UNIVERSITY OF MASSACHUSETTS – AMHERST, and Second-Place Finishers, COLUMBUS STATE COMMUNITY COLLEGE
First-Place Finishers, UNIVERSITY OF MASSACHUSETTS – AMHERST, and Second-Place Finishers, COLUMBUS STATE COMMUNITY COLLEGE

ICPI Contributes to ASCE Stormwater Operation & Maintenance Conference

As part of ICPI’s continued efforts to increase awareness of permeable interlocking concrete pavement (PICP) advantages and best maintenance practices, ICPI members and staff presented two technical sessions on PICP deicing and maintenance equipment at the ASCE Operation and Maintenance of Stormwater Control Measures Conference in Wilmington, NC on March 13-16, 2022.

Bryan Horr, P.E. presented ICPI Foundation-funded research by the University of Toronto demonstrating as much as a 50% reduction in deicer use in a breakout session attended by 23 people. Another breakout session on best PICP cleaning equipment and practices attracted 26 attendees.

Organized by ICPI members, an outdoor demo of cleaning equipment attracted 35 participants. The demo brought home the effectiveness of cleaning with high-pressure air and vacuum by measuring before and after-cleaning surface infiltration rates on 12-year-old, clogged PICP. Overall, the ASCE conference highlighted advances in operation and maintenance of gray and green stormwater control infrastructure, life cycle cost analysis, lessons learned from the field, and more. The conference attracted hundreds of academic instructors, state and municipal engineers, planners, public works staff, consultants, and stormwater regulators.

Manager of Technical Development & Market Promotion Bryan Horr, P.E., presenting at the ASCE Operation and Maintenance of Stormwater Control Measures Conference
Outdoor demo of the effectiveness of cleaning with high-pressure air and vacuum by measuring before- and after-cleaning surface infiltration