Executive Director’s Message By Ches Blevins: In Looking Back I’m Thankful, But Always Focused On The Future

In Looking Back I’m Thankful, But Always Focused On The Future

To our TMRA Family, THANKS! Thanks for being a part of this TEAM, our efforts, struggles and successes. While it shouldn’t, I’m still amazed at the heart and soul of those committed to TMRA and, really, what that means to our Texas families, economy, construction, mining, energy generation and related industries. Without our Owner/Operators, Support Members and our strong TEAM of related Associations like RMCMI, TACA, NMA and others, we could not succeed. While we are not where we’d like to be, TMRA has had a strong and, in many important ways, successful 2018. 

2018 has seen a strong and steady Membership, with some active and strong New Members coming onboard. Remember that these Members add to our strength and voice, so work together whenever possible. TMRA always encourages our Owner/Operators to reach out and use our Support Members whenever that makes good business sense. It’s good business to work with those that support YOUR interests by being a part of TMRA! Our Spring Owner/Operator-Support Member event in conjunction with the RMCMI Regional Meeting at the Hideaway Lake Club is evidence of our successful year. Another success was our recently held TMRA Annual Meeting at the Hyatt Lost Pines Resort & Spa near Bastrop, TX. Not only was the turnout fantastic, but the level of Sponsorships and Education/Outreach Auction participation were well over expectations. TMRA thanks you and, importantly, our Texas Teachers and Students say THANKS!

Now, turning to 2019, let’s talk briefly about what is coming up and why YOU should be an active part of our TMRA TEAM. Just around the corner is the 2019 Texas Legislative Session kicking off on January 8th. Our Members and, for sure, our Government Affairs Committee, is already watching for Bills of interest or concern. We always need your input when you know or hear of proposed legislation that should be watched. Tax initiatives, Permitting and Siting issues, Transportation, TCEQ and Railroad Commission funding are just a few of the areas we watch. At the end of what we know will be a successful Session, JOIN US in Thanking our Legislators and Staff at the ALWAYS GREAT TMRA HOSTED SINE DIE event on Monday, May 27th at The Long Center right across from Downtown Austin and Lady Bird Lake. Trust me, you’ll love being a part. “BEING A PART” means participating with TMRA at the event AND, whenever it is possible, being a SPONSOR. More specifics on that coming very soon but, for now, just know that IF you can Sponsor, PLEASE DO!

Once our 2019 Legislative Session is over, TMRA’s work on your behalf for 2019 is just getting started. Check our TMRA website, calendar and Social Media sites OFTEN so nothing is missed. We want you to be a part of this TEAM whenever and however you can. Our Summer will be full with our Teacher Workshops AND, once again, our Owner/Operator-Support Member joint event with our RMCMI friends. This joint event is scheduled for the Hideaway Lake Club near Tyler, TX for April 24-25. As for our 2018 event, we’ll have Speakers, Golf, plenty of food and drink and, importantly, opportunities for Owner/Operators, Support and RMCMI Members (JOIN BOTH organizations if you can!!) to have lots of one-on-one time.

We’ll round out our year with what’s shaping up to be a fantastic Annual Meeting at a wonderful venue. Our 2019 Event will be held at the Historic, beautiful and recently updated, Galvez Hotel in Galveston, TX right across from the seawall and beach and within walking distance of shops and restaurants. Note October 20-22nd….or longer on your Calendar. I’ve been there and you will NOT be disappointed. Join us and support TMRA as you always have. Bottom Line: Thanks for being a part of this wonderful TEAM effort! My wish is that you have the most wonderful and safe Christmas and Holiday Season ever.

Ches Blevins,
TMRA Executive Director