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Cemstone's Darrell Gagnon Receives Pioneer Award at 2010 World of Concrete Exposition
Mendota Heights, Minn. — February 17, 2010 —Cemstone, an Upper Midwest leader in high performance concrete, engineering services, aggregates, decorative concrete and masonry products, today announced that Darrell Gagnon has received a Pioneer Award from the American Concrete Pumping Association (ACPA). The award was presented at the 2010 World of Concrete Exposition in Las Vegas, Nev. Gagnon, who began working for Cemstone in 1993, has more than 35 years experience in the industry. In 1994 Gagnon joined Cemstone’s newly formed Concrete Placing Division, where he has overseen the company’s placing fleet growth from two belt-driven conveyors to a sophisticated fleet of 25 placing vehicles, conveyors and high rise booms. “Darrell is a very special person and, to many of us, is the face and personality of our placing division,” said Thor Becken, President of Cemstone. “Darrell and the talented team he’s assembled have played a critical role in virtually every major project we’ve been involved in for the past sixteen years.” Among its recent and notable projects are the new I-35W bridge, Target Field, TCF Gopher Stadium and the Marquette and Second Avenue South (MARQ2) transit project in downtown Minneapolis. Pioneer Awards recipients are recognized by the ACPA for their specific or unique contributions to the concrete pumping industry. Award criteria includes: advancing the industry, improving the conditions under which concrete pumping is performed, sharing knowledge with others, promoting good will and advancing safety practices. Cemstone offers a wide range of concrete placing capabilities, with a full line of equipment to meet any job’s requirement. Among equipment it operates are concrete pumps with 17- to 61-meter boom lengths, mixer mounted conveyors, spider booms and high-rise booms. Founded in 1927, Cemstone now operates more than 50 ready-mix concrete plants in Minnesota, western Wisconsin, and northern Iowa. The company operates a fleet of blue Cemstone ready-mix trucks and offers a complete line of concrete placing capabilities, engineering services, concrete block, and masonry products. To learn more about Cemstone products and services, phone 1-800-CEMSTONE or visit www.cemstone.com. ### Cemstone Facility Recognized for Environmental Excellence
Mendota Heights, Minn. – January 18, 2010 – Cemstone, an Upper Midwest leader in ready-mix, engineered and decorative concrete has earned Green-Star Certification by the National Ready Mixed Concrete Association (NRMCA) for its batch plant facility in East Bethel, Minn. It is only one of two plants in Minnesota to receive such certification. The NRMCA Green-Star Program recognizes those facilities that have achieved environmental excellence through the use of an Environmental Management System. The program was created in collaboration with the Environmental Protection Agency’s Green Highways Partnership and inspired by the 10 Guiding Principals of Environmental Stewardship. “We’re honored to be recognized by the NRMCA and its Green-Star program for both our adherence to environmental standards and our commitment to continual improvement,” said Tim Becken, Cemstone’s Senior Vice President of Operations. “Cemstone’s environmental performance at all of its facilities is an important part of our mission, as we build sustainable practices throughout our operations.” Among the 10 Guiding Principals of Environmental Stewardship that illustrate Cemstone’s environmental commitment are: a commitment by top management, compliance assurance, measurement and control improvement, training and development, awareness and outreach, and research and development. “The East Bethel facility features advanced technologies and processes, such as a central dust collector to capture particles at silos, scales and loading points – and a weir water-recycling system to handle wastewater,” said Pat Bergin, Cemstone’s Environmental Manager, who oversees Cemstone’s company-wide environmental initiative. “Of equal importance, we audit and assess our environmental performance and continually strive to do better. That’s the true benefit of the NRMCA’s Green-Star Program.” Cemstone’s East Bethel plant is located at 24480 Baltimore Street, NE and can be reached at 763-784-3512. The facility also features a Contractor Supply Store, one of the Midwest’s leading suppliers of construction related products and a national leader in the distribution of insulating concrete forms used to build concrete structures. Founded in 1927, Cemstone operates more than 50 ready-mix concrete plants in Minnesota, western Wisconsin and northern Iowa. The company operates a fleet of blue Cemstone ready-mix trucks and offers a complete line concrete pumping capabilities, concrete block and masonry products as well as engineering services. To learn more about Cemstone products and services, phone 1-800-CEMSTONE or visit www.cemstone.com. ### New I-35W Bridge Selected as the 2009 America’s Transportation Awards Grand Prize Winner and 2009 Excellence in Structural Engineering Award Winner
Mendota Heights, Minn. – November 3, 2009 – Cemstone, the Upper Midwest’s leader in high-performance concrete and engineering services has learned that the new I-35W bridge has been selected as the 2009 America’s Transportation Awards Grand Prize winner by the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO), AAA and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. The I-35W bridge replacement project was awarded the Grand Prize from a group of Top Ten Projects for 2009. In addition, the I-35W bridge was selected as one of the winners for the 2009 Excellence in Structural Engineering Awards given by the National Council of Structural Engineer Associations (NCSEA). The award was presented during the NCSEA annual conference. “These national awards are further testament to the new I-35W bridge and all that was accomplished over such a compressed period of time and under extreme pressure,” said Thor Becken, president of Cemstone “We feel very fortunate to have had the opportunity to work with the Minnesota Department of Transportation, the Federal Highway Administration, and to work shoulder-to-shoulder with our construction partners FIGG Engineering and the Flatiron/Manson team.” The 2009 America’s Transportation Awards competition recognizes outstanding transportation projects in three categories: “On Time,” “On Budget,” and “Innovative Management.” The ten projects that scored the highest during four regional contests competed for the Grand Prize. A total of fifty projects competed for the Grand Prize. The NCSEA Excellence in Structural Engineering Awards recognize creative achievement and innovation in structural engineering. Projects are evaluated for the creativity in structural design, complexity of criteria or unique problems, innovative application of new or existing materials or techniques, ingenuity of design for efficient use of materials and labor, exceeding owner’s needs or expectations, and suitability of the structure for its environment. “We truly feel honored to have played an important role on this historic and high profile project,” said Becken. “With nineteen spans across the Mississippi under our belts, we believe very strongly that our people and our processes are poised to take on infrastructure projects of any size and of any complexity.” Cemstone provided 60,000 cubic yards of high performance concrete for the Flatiron/Manson design/build team, including four primary high-performance concrete mixes for superior strength and multiple levels of redundancy. These high-performance mixes also enhanced the project’s environmental sustainability by reducing the amount of virgin material, particularly Portland cement (and its attendant carbon dioxide emissions), in the structure. Founded in 1927, Cemstone now operates more than 50 ready-mix concrete plants in Minnesota, western Wisconsin, and northern Iowa. The company operates a fleet of blue Cemstone ready-mix trucks, offers a complete line of concrete pumping capabilities, To learn more about Cemstone products and services, phone 1-800-CEMSTONE or visit www.cemstone.com. ### Cemstone Unveils Project Vision Imaging Software for Decorative Concrete Contractors
Mendota Heights, Minn. – October 27, 2009 – Cemstone, the upper Midwest’s leader in ready-mix, high performance and decorative concrete and masonry products, today introduced Project Vision imaging software, a proprietary tool that enables concrete contractors to use a computer to show “after” images for any driveway, pool, patio, walkway, parking lot or other decorative concrete project – before the project is undertaken. The software can also show images of asphalt converted to standard grey concrete. Project Vision allows contractors to apply more than 28,000 Cemstone color and pattern combinations to a digital image of the proposed project site. And the project owner can view side-by-side “before” and “after” images of the project site prior to starting. “Project Vision is an education and selling tool for our customers to help them dramatically demonstrate the possibilities available to homeowners with Cemstone decorative concrete,” said Thor Becken, president of Cemstone. “A picture is worth a thousand words, and this new software provides decorative concrete contractors with a tremendous advantage when working with a homeowner or commercial customer.” Project Vision can display colored and stamped concrete, acid stains, epoxy and knockdown finishes, granite, tile and more. The unique software is programmed to display Cemstone’s new line of proprietary RHEOCOLOR L liquid colors. The software will retail for $599. Through an introductory offer, that includes a free concrete chip kit, the cost of Project Vision is $449. “Decorative concrete is a way to achieve a higher level of beauty, functionality and long term value,” added Becken. “We believe online tools such as Project Vision offer a unique value added benefit to contractors and homeowners alike.” For Project Vision system requirements and to watch a video demonstration, visit: www.cemstone.com Founded in 1927, Cemstone now operates more than 50 ready-mix concrete plants in Minnesota, western Wisconsin, and northern Iowa. The company operates a fleet of blue Cemstone ready-mix trucks, offers a complete line of block and masonry products and is the nation’s largest distributor for the past six years of Reward® Insulating Concrete Forms (ICFs) used in the construction of concrete commercial buildings and homes. To learn more about Cemstone products and services, call 1-800-CEMSTONE or visit www.cemstone.com. ### Public Road Saves Environment
When the city of Shore-view, MN, needed to rebuild streets in a high priority neighborhood, city officials considered options to address construction alternatives that manage storm water in a different way by using pervious concrete. Storm sewer infrastructure would not be needed when using pervious concrete, which allows water to seep through the concrete to the soil below. Maloney said the net savings from using pervious concrete, which is more expensive than regular concrete, and not building storm water infrastructure were very close. The neighborhood where this concrete was used did not have any available land to build storm water retention ponds making pervious concrete a highly desirable and sustainable solution. Armed with information
North Country Concrete crews spread the concrete on the road before the paver packs and levels the mix. Cemstone, the largest ready-mix provider in the Upper Midwest, had supplied pervious concrete on previous private projects and was selected to develop this mix. John Lee, sales manager for civil and engineered sales at Cemstone, said the company had provided pervious concrete to Shoreview for an alley about two years ago. “Based on the success of that project, Shoreview officials came to us before this project was designed and put out to bid. Previous experience required
After the paver levels the concrete, a cross roller, from Lura Enterprises, pushes down the concrete to pack the surface for better driving. Lee said the mix Cemstone developed was the same pervious concrete mixture it has used since 2004. “We made some changes to make it more workable and to make sure it comes out of the truck. The specifications we developed were performance driven to meet Shoreview's needs,” Lee explained. Pervious concrete uses one size of aggregates and does not contain sand. “We're creating a concrete that's 20 to 30 percent voids. For years we've always tried to keep water out of concrete because water damages concrete. Now, because of the storm water and water quality concerns with sediment and erosion, cities and project owners are looking for a better way to handle storm water runoff.” The mixture takes longer to install because it is a stiff concrete with low slump and requires more time to come out of the ready-mix trucks. Lee said the aggregates used has to be freeze-thaw durable because water filtering through the mixture will probably touch every aggregate particle. Admixtures gave this mix more adhesion properties. Large mechanical screed
North Country Concrete workers walked across planks over the pavement to cut the blanket which will cover and cure the concrete. Pre-wet blankets cover a newly-paved road section. The curing procedure is different for pervious concrete, said Lee. “Because this concrete has such low water content, it can dry out if we don't take precautions. North Country Concrete used blankets that were pre-wet to cure this concrete and to make sure we maintain high moisture content after the concrete is set which takes about seven days. After seven days, the blankets are removed and cars can drive on the surface. “By using pervious concrete, you can turn a surface into more than a parking or driving surface. You can turn it into a storm water retention system because any water that hits the surface will run through the pavement and naturally filters back into the soil. While the water filters, it's being cleaned of sediments, heavy metal, phosphorus, nitrogen and other materials going through the concrete and aggregates,” said Lee who knows that many cities and project owners see good benefits to using pervious concrete. Other advantages Lee cited are a rougher surface for better traction, better slip resistance, and reducing the heat island effect with its lighter color. Local and national interest Maloney emphasized that a tremendous amount of interest in the Shore-view project has developed among those who build and manage public infrastructure. “There are a lot of people with the same issues nationally and they're interested in this project,” said Maloney. The city built informal partnership with the University of Minnesota, Department of Health, and the Transportation Engineering and Road Research Alliance (TERRA) to monitor ground water, analyze and test pavement course, and evaluate the pavement for design and for water filtration rates. Residents were skeptical about the project at first, said Maloney. At city council meetings, Shoreview officials explained the benefits of using pervious concrete and cited their previous experience with the mix. “The neighborhood is satisfied with the project now,” Maloney concluded. “The process has been professional, the installation has been top notch, and we definitely had the A team on the project.” To learn more about Cemstone products and services, phone 1-800-CEMSTONE or visit www.cemstone.com. # # # Cemstone Chosen for Expansion of Project Green Fleet Program
Mendota Heights, Minn. – October 1, 2009 – Cemstone, an Upper Midwest leader in high performance concrete, engineering services, aggregates, decorative concrete and masonry products, has been selected by the Minnesota Environmental Initiative (MEI) and its Project Green Fleet program to upgrade 21 vehicles in its ready-mix concrete truck fleet. When completed in January 2010, the vehicles will be retrofitted with diesel oxidation catalysts (DOC) or diesel multi-stage filters that are expected to reduce engine emissions by up to 50 percent. "We’re excited to have the opportunity to participate in this expansion of Project Green Fleet, as the program provides vital assistance to reduce the emissions of our concrete mixer truck fleet,” said Tim Becken, executive vice president of operations for Cemstone. “Whether it’s habitat restoration at our mining operations or the use of industrial byproducts in our concrete, we understand that developing sustainable practices throughout our company is good for the air we breathe and our bottom line as well." The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) awarded a $3 million federal stimulus grant to MEI to fund Project Green Fleet initiatives throughout the state. MEI estimates that diesel vehicles account for 50 percent of all traffic generated air pollution in Minnesota. Earlier this summer, five Cemstone ready-mix concrete trucks were fitted with special diesel emissions filters. Project Green Fleet covers the cost of installation, installation training and diesel emission reduction equipment. All the upgraded trucks involved in the Cemstone fleet will be located in the Minneapolis metro area. To qualify, the trucks must remain in service for the next 5-7 years or longer. Project Green Fleet is a collaborative effort among business, government agencies and non-profit organizations to improve air quality and protect public health by reducing emissions from Minnesota’s school buses and other diesel vehicles. To learn more about Cemstone products and services, phone 1-800-CEMSTONE or visit www.cemstone.com. # # # Cemstone Expands and Upgrades Henderson Aggregate Facility
Mendota Heights, Minn. – September 22, 2009 – Cemstone, an Upper Midwest leader in high performance concrete, engineering services, aggregates, decorative concrete and masonry products, has expanded and upgraded its facility located in Henderson, Minn. The facility produces recycled concrete, virgin Class 5 aggregates, and washed sand and gravel to support Cemstone ready-mixed concrete and other building projects throughout Minnesota. "Our upgrades and expansion at the Henderson site represent a new and sizeable investment in our operational infrastructure, and, with it, we are poised to provide our customers with unmatched quality aggregates and recycled concrete,” said Tim Becken, Cemstone senior vice president of operations. “In particular, aggregates are an extremely important ingredient for a wide range of construction and building projects. With our new equipment and expanded capabilities, we have what it takes to ensure an ample and steady supply to meet our customer needs." The new equipment includes a crushing plant and washing system that provide uniform size and enhanced quality aggregate. The Henderson facility also features an underwater dredge that extracts sand and gravel from a lake bottom in excess of 140 feet deep. “This facility produces aggregate materials that are easily and cost-effectively transported to where they’re needed,” added Becken. “Cemstone’s standard for all projects is consistent size and quality that meet or exceed industry requirements.” Founded in 1927, Cemstone now operates more than 50 ready-mix concrete plants in Minnesota, western Wisconsin, and northern Iowa. The company operates a fleet of blue Cemstone ready-mix trucks, offers a complete line of concrete pumping capabilities, engineering services, concrete block, masonry products and is the nation’s largest distributor of Reward® Insulating Concrete Forms (ICFs) used in the construction of concrete structures. To learn more about Cemstone products and services, phone 1-800-CEMSTONE or visit www.cemstone.com. # # # Cemstone Marks Anniversary for Expanded Brainerd Facility
Brainerd, Minn. – August 4, 2009 – Cemstone, a family owned company and a leader in ready-mix, engineered and decorative concrete in the upper Midwest, marked the two-year anniversary of its expanded ready-mix concrete facility located at 17229 County Road 25 in Brainerd. Cemstone initially constructed a portable concrete plant to serve the Brainerd area but, in 2007, expanded the operation into a state-of-the-art facility to serve this dynamic and growing region of Minnesota. “This is among our company’s most advanced and environmentally friendly plants,” said Tim Becken, Cemstone’s Senior Vice President of Operations. “In addition to the latest computer controlled plant management and production systems, our Brainerd facility offers state-of-the-art products including integral liquid colored concrete, pervious concrete, masonry products, and a comprehensive Concrete Products Supply Store stocked with building materials to serve area contractors as well as homeowners.” The facility features a display where homeowners and contractors can view samples of decorative concrete colors and styles. Cemstone’s Brainerd team (including manager Bruce Quade plus Kevin Fischer and Barney Young) offers expertise and helpful advice. They can even recommend expert concrete contractors to area homeowners. “We are committed to providing quality products, service and value to the Brainerd Lakes region,” added Becken. “It’s a beautiful part of the state. And it’s an important hub for commerce as well as family recreation with first-class resorts, motels, golf courses and vacation homes.” Because concrete production uses many locally sourced and sustainable materials, the Cemstone plant will help architects, engineers and builders construct more environmentally friendly projects that employ local contractors. Among the notable features engineered into the operation are the following:
Since its opening, Cemstone’s Brainerd facility has served area concrete contractors with concrete and building materials for many high profile projects, including the city’s new water treatment plant, downtown paving and curb-and-gutter projects, upgrades at the St. Joseph’s Medical Center and many projects performed by do-it-yourself homeowners. Cemstone’s Concrete Products Supply Store is open to the public from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm Monday through Friday, and on Saturdays during the construction season. For more information call 320-676-3365. Founded in 1927, Cemstone operates more than 50 ready-mix concrete plants in Minnesota, western Wisconsin and northern Iowa. The company operates a fleet of blue Cemstone ready-mix trucks and offers a complete line of concrete pumping capabilities, concrete block and masonry products as well as engineering services. It is the nation’s largest distributor of Reward® Insulating Concrete Forms (ICFs) used in the construction of concrete commercial buildings and homes. To learn more about Cemstone products and services, phone 1-800-CEMSTONE or visit www.cemstone.com. ### Cemstone Introduces Full Range of Wood Forming Products
Universal Forest Products manufacturing facility in White Bear Lake, Minn. will support Cemstone’s concrete forming initiative by supplying a wide range of products and services needed for a variety of concrete forming applications. Among those products and services are, bulk and piece pulled lumber and plywood; cut to size lumber and plywood; custom design-built forms; forming trusses; forming and shoring beams and posts; complete precast solutions and jobsite delivery and will call. “Cemstone’s mission is to help our customers be more effective and productive, and Universal Forest Products full line of wood forming products and support services are a great fit for Contractor Supply,” said Thor Becken, president of Cemstone. “We’re now in a position to offer our customers everything from bulk lumber and plywood to detailed custom forms.” Universal Forest Products (Nasdaq: UFPI) is the nation’s leading manufacturer and distributor of wood and wood alternative products to the retail / dealer, site-build construction, manufactured housing and industrial markets. Universal Forest Products is the nation’s leading producer of pressure-treated wood and a growing supplier of concrete forming products. The company is headquartered in Grand Rapids, Mich., with facilities throughout North America. Visit www.ufpi.com for more information. Founded in 1927, Cemstone now operates more than 50 ready-mix concrete plants in Minnesota, western Wisconsin, and northern Iowa. The company features a fleet of blue Cemstone ready-mix trucks, offers a complete line concrete placing capabilities, engineering services, concrete block, masonry products and is the nation’s largest distributor of Reward® Insulating Concrete Forms (ICFs) used in the construction of concrete structures. Its Contractor Supply Stores in Minnesota, western Wisconsin and northern Iowa offer professional-grade concrete and masonry items direct to both professional contractors and homeowners. To learn more about Cemstone products and services, phone 1-800-CEMSTONE or visit www.cemstone.com ###
City of Shoreview uses Cemstone pervious concrete for sustainable development
Mendota Heights, Minn. – August 5, 2009 – Cemstone, an Upper Midwest leader in high performance concrete, engineering services, aggregates, decorative concrete and masonry products, is supplying 1,800 cubic yards of pervious concrete for a ¾ mile-long neighborhood roadway construction project in the city of Shoreview, Minn. The roadway’s pervious concrete is 7-inches deep, with 18-inches of aggregate underneath. The undertaking, located near the shores of Lake Owassa, is Minnesota’s largest pervious concrete roadway construction project to date. It will be completed in mid-August. The city chose pervious concrete for this environmentally sensitive area because of its ability to capture and filter storm water to prevent run-off. Moreover, because it can eliminate the need for storm water retention ponds, pervious concrete contributes to improved land management practices. The neighborhood has no available land for any type of storm water retention pond, making pervious concrete a highly desirable and sustainable solution. "We’re excited to see the city of Shorewood make a major commitment to pervious concrete and sustainable development,” said Thor Becken, president of Cemstone. “Our company has been an innovator in pervious concrete’s introduction in the Upper Midwest, and this is an excellent opportunity to showcase its many environmental advantages." Because pervious concrete contains no fine sand, water passes through the concrete matrix thereby promoting the filtration of heavy metals, suspended solids and even petroleum products. Pervious concrete also promotes tree growth, lessens the urban heat island effect and recharges aquifers. On July 22, a group of more than 100 (including many engineers, architects and city officials) attended an Open House sponsored by the Aggregate & Ready Mix Association of Minnesota (ARM) to see the placing and finishing of a section of the roadway. The group also witnessed a demonstration of the finished product’s performance when 2,000 gallons of water from a Cemstone ready-mix truck was discharged and disappeared into a previously poured section of project. The primary concrete contractor is North County Concrete of Ramsey, Minn. “We are one of the most experienced pervious concrete contractors in the region, with more than fifteen pervious projects under our belt. But this is, by far our, largest effort to date,” said Karl Virkus, president of North Country Concrete, Inc. “About three-fourths of our pervious work has been with Cemstone, and we appreciate their knowledgeable staff, commitment to customer support and focus on innovation.” North Country specializes in placement of curb and gutter, sidewalk, steps, pavement, walls and decorative concrete. As part of its mission to offer green technology, the company started working with pervious concrete in 2007. Founded in 1927, Cemstone now operates more than 50 ready-mix concrete plants in Minnesota, western Wisconsin, and northern Iowa. The company operates a fleet of blue Cemstone ready-mix trucks, offers a complete line of concrete pumping capabilities, engineering services, concrete block, masonry products and is the nation’s largest distributor of Reward® Insulating Concrete Forms (ICFs) used in the construction of concrete structures. To learn more about Cemstone products and services, phone 1-800-CEMSTONE or visit www.cemstone.com ### New company is joint venture between Cemstone Products and Duluth Ready Mix
Biwabik, Minn. – July 16, 2009 –East Range Ready Mix, a manufacturer of quality ready-mixed concrete for commercial, municipal and residential applications, today officially opened its doors for business. The company is a joint venture between Cemstone Products Company of the Twin Cities and Duluth Ready Mix of Duluth, Minn. “We’re excited to launch East Range Ready Mix, and look forward to serving the needs of northern St. Louis County,” said Tim Becken, president of East Range Ready Mix and Cemstone’s senior vice president of operations. “With our combination of trucks and placing equipment, East Range is poised to serve a wide range of building and construction projects with quality ready-mixed concrete.” East Range operates a concrete batch plant and storage facility located at 1 Industrial Park Drive in Biwabik. Its service area will encompass the majority of northern St. Louis County, including the cities of Hibbing, Virginia, Eveleth, Tower, Cook and Chisolm. “Our commitment is to provide a new level of customer service in northern St. Louis County,” said Tim Robertson, plant manager and co-owner of East Range Ready Mix and head of operations at Duluth Ready Mix. “East Range Ready Mix will offer quality ready-mixed concrete, delivered when and where it’s needed.” East Range operates a fleet of front-discharge and rear discharge ready-mix trucks. Front discharge trucks feature all-wheel-drive chassis for operating in tight conditions and over rough terrain. The company also offers a line of concrete pumps and conveyors to provide integrated concrete delivery and placement for its customers. To learn more about East Range Ready Mix, phone 218-865-0275. Project team selected concrete for environmental benefits and long-term value
Mendota Heights, Minn. – June 15, 2009 – Cemstone, an Upper Midwest leader in high performance concrete, engineering services, aggregates, decorative concrete and masonry products, has supplied 15,000 cubic yards of concrete for the Marquette and Second Avenue South transit project (MARQ2) in downtown Minneapolis. The MARQ2 project team initially expected to incorporate asphalt for much of the road surfaces, but selected concrete after an analysis by team members. "The bid package for MARQ2 was based on completing the general traffic side of the street with full depth asphalt and the transit side of the street with concrete, but included an alternate for an all concrete roadway,” said Bill Fellows P.E., MARQ2 Project Manager for the City of Minneapolis. “We received five bids for the project and, in all cases, the cost of the concrete was within 5% of the asphalt option. In addition to being cost competitive, the concrete will be more durable. Moreover, concrete’s aesthetic benefits make it an important element of the overall streetscape design." The concrete supplied by Cemstone contains fly ash, a coal combustion byproduct that is often used as an ingredient in concrete to enhance its strength and durability while reducing its carbon footprint. Concrete pavements carry a life expectancy longer than asphalt pavements, require less maintenance and reduce the Urban Heat Island effect. “We are seeing a shift to concrete as the material of choice for projects like MARQ2 and other infrastructure projects such as ramps and shopping center parking lots,” said Thor Becken, president of Cemstone. “Concrete’s performance and environmental advantages are numerous and significant. Concrete is not petroleum based, is locally sourced and is more price stable than asphalt.” When fully-completed in December of 2009, the changes to Marquette and Second Avenue will improve bus capacity and bus travel times in downtown and will include: two contra-flow bus lanes, two traffic lanes, wider sidewalks, new streetscape and public art, as well as enhanced pedestrian facilities. Founded in 1927, Cemstone now operates more than 50 ready-mix concrete plants in Minnesota, western Wisconsin, and northern Iowa. The company operates a fleet of blue Cemstone ready-mix trucks, offers a complete line concrete pumping capabilities, engineering services, concrete block, masonry products and is the nation’s largest distributor of Reward® Insulating Concrete Forms (ICFs) used in the construction of concrete structures. To learn more about Cemstone products and services, phone 1-800-CEMSTONE or visit www.cemstone.com. ### Ingredient for concrete adds strength and durability while improving workability
Cemstone will initially use WhitemudMK as an ingredient in its concrete mixes for infrastructure projects such as bridges, large structural slabs and parking structures. WhitemudMK improves concrete’s strength and durability by reacting with the calcium hydroxide in concrete to produce insoluble compounds, which, in turn, results in denser concrete of lower porosity and permeability. “In our continued drive to innovate and search for ways to improve Cemstone concrete’s performance, workability and minimize its carbon footprint, we are very excited to partner with Whitemud Resources,” said Thor Becken, president of Cemstone. “We believe WhitemudMK is a tremendous alternative to silica fume as an ingredient in high-performance concrete and other portland cement-based products because of its many benefits to our customers.” WhitemudMK is finer than fly ash and cement, yet not as fine as commonly used silica fume. As a result, Metakaolin is more workable and easier to finish than concrete made with silica fume. Concrete made with silica fume can be quite “sticky” to finish, requiring careful attention to avoid plastic shrinkage cracking. Cemstone is the first ready-mix concrete producer in the U.S. to distribute and use WhitemudMK from Whitemud Resources. Whitemud Resources Inc. is a Canadian‐based corporation that is harnessing a large kaolin deposit in southern Saskatchewan. The Company produces WhitemudMK, a high reactivity, cement‐grade metakaolin that enhances the performance of cement used in construction. The Company is positioned to benefit from expanding North American infrastructure needs and growing environmental pressures. Visit www.whitemudresources.com for more information. Cemstone is the Upper Midwest leader in ready-mixed, engineered and high-performance concrete. The company operates concrete batch plants in Minnesota, western Wisconsin and northern Iowa. In addition, the company supplies sand, gravel, aggregate products, masonry products, concrete pumping services, insulating concrete forms (ICFs), architectural concrete and proprietary high-performance mixes. Cemstone also offers more than 10,000 professional-grade concrete and masonry items online and through its network of Contractor Supply Stores. To learn more about Cemstone products and services, phone 1-800-CEMSTONE or visit www.cemstone.com Award recognizes Cemstone as top-selling distributor
Mendota Heights, Minn. – May 11, 2009 – Together, Cemstone and Reward Wall Systems, Inc. have built something very impressive: a thriving ICF business in the upper Midwest. Cemstone has been named the “Producer of the Year” for the eighth consecutive year as the nation’s top distributor of Reward Insulating Concrete Form (ICF) wall systems. “We’re proud of our long and synergistic relationship with Reward Wall Systems, Inc., and the Reward–Cemstone team who has helped grow the market for ICF-based structures in the upper Midwest,” said Thor Becken, president of Cemstone. “The sustainability, energy savings and quality benefits of building with Reward ICFs make it ideal for a wide range of commercial and residential structures.”
“Insulating Concrete Forms continue to gain acceptance and market share,” added Becken. “We are convinced that this trend will accelerate as sustainability, energy savings and concern for the environment continue to dominate the landscape.” Located in Omaha, Neb., Reward Wall Systems, Inc. is the leading manufacturer and distributor of insulating concrete forms used in residential and commercial structures. Reward’s customers include developers, architects, general contractors, residential contractors, and construction supply distributors. Founded in 1927, Cemstone is an upper Midwest leader in ready-mix, high performance and decorative concrete and masonry products. The company operates more than 50 ready-mix concrete plants in Minnesota, western Wisconsin, and northern Iowa.To learn more about Cemstone products and services visit www.cemstone.com. Cemstone / ICF Builder Award 2008 Winner
The CineMagic Atlantis 15 project, that Cemstone Products Co providing the Reward ICFs and installed by Gresser Companies, took home an award in the Heavy Commercial category for being the largest ICF project in MN, showing the speed of construction by building with ICFs, as it only took 8 weeks to erect 83,000 sq feet of walls up to 54 ft high, and the amount of local press coverage in Minnesota. As in other theaters, decisions to build with Reward ICF’s were chosen for the CineMagic 15 for the superior sound attenuation for patron satisfaction, the high fire rating for safety of the guests, and the fast installation time so they were able to start selling tickets faster. Congratulations to all the finalists and to everyone involved in helping CineMagic 15 become labeled as one of 2008’smost influential projects in the ICF industry.
Keystone® products will be manufactured locally at North Star’s Medford plant Rochester, Minn. – January 28, 2009 – North Star Stone and Masonry today announced the acquisition of the Keystone® Retaining Wall license (formerly held by Aggregate Industries/Masterblock) for Minnesota. The acquisition, which was completed on January 16, 2009, makes North Star Stone and Masonry the region’s main producer of the popular retaining wall brand. “We’re very excited at this growth opportunity for North Star Stone and Masonry to provide the region with quality Keystone Retaining Wall products,” says Kelly. “The Keystone brand is a tremendous addition to our portfolio of decorative block, concrete masonry units (CMUs), masonry supplies, and hardscape and landscape materials.” As part of the acquisition, North Star Stone and Masonry will also gain the license for Bradstone landscaping products. Bradstone offers beautiful retaining wall, paving and edging products, whose designs are inspired by the English countryside. Bradstone products will be marketed and promoted by North Star Stone and Masonry throughout Minnesota. North Star Stone and Masonry also announced the expansion of its sales team to include former Keystone installers and dealers. Most recently, the company added Susan Kinyon (formerly of Kinyon Concrete Products) in sales & marketing and Mitch Regal (formerly of Anchor Retaining Walls) to lead the Keystone sales team. “Service and support for North Star customers is a cornerstone of our mission to build the Keystone brand in southern Minnesota, and our new sales team is vastly qualified and capable,” added Kelly. For more than 20 years, Keystone Retaining Wall Systems has set the worldwide standard for excellence and innovation within the segmental retaining wall industry. Keystone innovations include large-scale structural segmental retaining walls (SRWs) and residential decorative retaining & parapet wall units. For more information on Keystone, visit www.keystonewalls.com. North Star Stone and Masonry (formerly Rochester Brick, Mankato Brick and Concrete Materials) serves southern Minnesota builders, architects, contractors and homeowners. Their solutions include clay face brick, manufactured and natural stone veneers, architectural block, concrete and stone pavers, flagstone, natural stone, concrete retaining wall products and more. For more information call 507-252-1129 or # # # Cemstone’s Seykora Named to Serve on MC&MCA and AGC of Minnesota Boards of Directors
Seykora joined Cemstone in 2006 and is a commercial sales representative for the company. Her responsibilities include project estimating, project management, customer service and sales promotion. She recently completed a two-year term on the MC&MCA Board of Directors, and currently serves on the organization’s Construction Leadership Committee (CLC) Board of Directors. Seykora is also active with the Emerging Green Builders (EGB) initiative of the Mississippi Headwaters Chapter of the U.S. Green Building Council. “The Minnesota Concrete and Masonry Contractors Association and the Associated General Contractors of Minnesota are tremendous groups, and we’re proud to have someone from our organization represented on their boards,” said Thor Becken, president of Cemstone. “Rachel Seykora is an asset to our company, and she brings a wide range of skills to these associations.” The MC&MCA, a non-profit trade association established in 1964, is committed and dedicated to the production and delivery of quality concrete and masonry goods and services. There are 113 member companies in Minnesota. AGC of Minnesota is a statewide association of general contractors, specialty contractors and affiliated suppliers involved in the construction of buildings, highways, and heavy industrial and municipal utility projects. The organization was founded in St. Paul in 1918. Founded in 1927, Cemstone operates more than 50 ready-mix concrete plants in Minnesota, western Wisconsin, and northern Iowa. The company operates a fleet of blue Cemstone ready-mix trucks, features a complete line of pumping and placing equipment and is the concrete supplier for the new I-35W bridge. To learn more about Cemstone products and services visit www.cemstone.com.
Company’s work on I-35W bridge rebuild receives “Project of the Year” honors
Mendota Heights, Minn. – December 3, 2008 – Cemstone, An Upper Midwest regional leader in ready-mix, engineered and architectural concrete, received eight first-place awards last night from the Aggregate & Ready Mix Association (ARM) of Minnesota. Moreover, the company won Project of the Year for its work on the I-35W bridge rebuild. ARM announced the awards last night at its Building Excellence Awards Banquet in Minneapolis, at the culmination of its annual convention. “Cemstone is very proud to be recognized by our industry and peers for each of these projects, and the wide range of work they represent,” said Thor Becken, president of Cemstone. “In particular, the 35W bridge project was a tremendous challenge and significant test of our capabilities.” The following list of Cemstone category winners this year represents both small and large residential and commercial building projects:
Visit www.cemstone.com to learn more about each of these winning projects. ARM was founded in 1950 as a statewide, nonprofit organization whose goal is to advance the knowledge, education and awareness of concrete and to monitor government activities and regulations that may impact its members. ARM's membership consists of more than 25 aggregate producers and 30 ready-mix producers from across Minnesota, plus more than 50 related associate member companies. Founded in 1927, Cemstone now operates more than 50 ready-mix concrete plants in Minnesota, western Wisconsin, and northern Iowa. The company operates a fleet of blue Cemstone ready-mix trucks, offers a complete line concrete pumping capabilities, engineering services, concrete block, masonry products and is the nation’s largest distributor of Reward® Insulating Concrete Forms (ICFs) used in the construction of concrete structures. Visit www.cemstone.com or phone 1-800-CEMSTONE to learn more about Cemstone products and services. # # # Cemstone Showcases Sustainable Technologies at New Facility
Mendota Heights, Minn. – October 22, 2008 – Cemstone, a leader in ready-mix, engineered and decorative concrete in the upper Midwest, held an Grand Opening on October 15 at its new batch plant facility located in Dayton, Minn. Constructed on the Twin Cities’ growing Northwest corridor, the batch plant reflects more than nine years of planning and preparation. The event was attended by more than 250 upper Midwest contractors, builders, industry professionals and public officials. The Grand Opening featured a presentation / illustrations on the many sustainable advantages of concrete paving over asphalt. There was also a pervious concrete demonstration that showcased how this environmentally friendly paving material reduces storm water runoff and replenishes aquifers. Because of its use of many locally sourced and sustainable materials, the plant will help many architects, engineers and builders earn LEED® credits. The LEED rating system promotes the use of sustainable materials and practices. (Cemstone’s LEED accredited professional helps customers take advantage of the many opportunities that concrete can contribute to earning LEED points.) “This is without a doubt our most advanced and environmentally friendly batch plant facility,” said Tim Becken, Cemstone’s Senior Vice President of Operations. “The permitting, design and construction was a nine year methodical process, and we believe the end result will serve our company, concrete contractors and the community at large for many years to come.” Among the notable features and their benefits engineered into the facility are the following:
Founded in 1927, Cemstone operates more than 50 ready-mix concrete plants in Minnesota, western Wisconsin and northern Iowa. The company operates a fleet of blue Cemstone ready-mix trucks and offers a complete line concrete pumping capabilities, concrete block and masonry products as well as engineering services. It is the nation’s largest distributor of Reward® Insulating Concrete Forms (ICFs) used in the construction of concrete commercial buildings and homes. To learn more about Cemstone products and services, phone 1-800-CEMSTONE or visit www.cemstone.com. # # # |
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Mendota Heights, Minn. – August 11, 2009 – Cemstone, the Upper Midwest’s leading supplier of high-performance concrete, engineering services, aggregates and decorative concrete, announced today that it now offers a full-line of wood forming products through its Contractor Supply Store (CCS) locations in Minnesota and Western Wisconsin. Cemstone has teamed up with Universal Forest Products, one of the nation’s leading manufacturers and distributors of wood products used as concrete forms.
Mendota Heights, Minn. – May 29, 2009 – Cemstone, the Upper Midwest’s leading supplier of high-performance concrete, announced today that it has entered into a partnership with Whitemud Resources Inc. of Calgary, Alberta to utilize WhitemudMK high-reactivity metakaolin throughout Cemstone’s Upper Midwest operations. WhitemudMK is an ingredient used in concrete to enhance its strength, durability and workability, while simultaneously reducing its carbon footprint by as much as 13 percent.
The 2008 ICF Builder Magazine awards were announced during a ceremony on February 4th in Las Vegas at theWorld of Concrete. Finalists were scored on the complexity, visibility, size, and sustainability of the ICF project. A total of 60 total entries and 12 different brands of block were submitted for awards. Reward Wall Systems had two finalists in the Heavy Commercial Division and one finalist in the Unlimited Residential Division.
Mendota Heights, Minn. – March 11, 2009 – Cemstone, an upper Midwest leader in ready-mix, high performance and decorative concrete and masonry products, announced today that Rachel Seykora has been appointed to the Minnesota Concrete & Masonry Contractors Association (MC&MCA) Board of Directors for 2009-2010. Seykora was also named to the ten member Associated General Contractors (AGC) of Minnesota Board of Directors for 2009. 
