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President's Message - March 2009

Dear Members,

I keep hoping that there will be some good economic news to help set a positive tone to the monthly president’s message. Unfortunately, every time I open the newspaper or turn on the radio or television, the news seems to get worse. I think it would be safe to say that every one of us is being affected by the current recession. This not only includes us personally but our families, friends, coworkers, and employers. I can say with confidence that in spite of the troubles with the economy, the Executive Committee is working diligently to ensure that the ASSE Triad Chapter will continue to be here for you today, tomorrow, and long into the future. And we plan to do that without any bailout money.

Even with all that we’ve put into this year’s chapter, the economy has still taken its toll. An increase in work demands has forced our President-Elect to step aside. This means that we currently have no one to assume the role of Chapter President for the 2009-2010 year, starting July 1. While this is not a good position for our chapter to be in, we’ve been there before. Two years ago our then President-Elect resigned and Debbie Meurs came forward and volunteered to serve as President with little time to prepare. Debbie did a great job as our leader and still serves today as our Membership Chair. We’re looking for someone to respond to the call and become our “Debbie” for next year. If you feel compelled to raise your hand but are hesitant to take on the responsibilities of the position, I assure you that you won’t be asked to conduct a “one man show.” The incoming Executive Committee consists of seasoned veterans who make up a strong team and are more than willing to carry their load. You can also be assured that I will take as much time as necessary to help you learn the duties and assume the role, turning over responsibilities only when you’re completely ready. So, what’ll it be? Are you ready to step up and serve? Your chapter needs you!

April will be a big month for our chapter, with our regular meeting on Tuesday, April 21, followed by our golf tournament on Friday, April 24. During our monthly meeting we will recognize three members for their service to the ASSE. Lee Blanks and Richard Markvart will be honored for their 25 years as ASSE members and Paul Klem will be honored for 50, yes I said 50, years as an ASSE member. I recently received a copy of a letter that Paul sent in December to ASSE’s current President, Warren Brown, describing his early years as a member of the North Carolina chapter, the only chapter in the state. He discusses his role in helping form the Greater Charlotte Chapter, where he served as chapter President in 1965. I challenge each of you to join me in honoring these three individuals. Even if you can only make it to one meeting this year, this is the one you want to attend.

Also during the April meeting we will be voting on the slate of officers for next year. In addition to the vacancy for President, we are looking for someone to serve as President-Elect. If you’re interested but still unsure about taking on the role of President right now, then I encourage you to consider serving as President-Elect. I did precisely that two years ago and enjoyed working under Debbie’s leadership for a year before taking over as President last July. It would be ideal to be able to distribute ballots with a full slate of officers to vote on next month.

I can’t close this month’s message without mentioning our latest attempt to hold a chapter golf tournament. Two tries last October that ended in rainouts has not discouraged us. We have Oak Hollow Golf Course in High Point reserved for a fun afternoon of golf and friendship. No matter what level of golfer you are, I guarantee you’ll enjoy yourself. I recently bought a set of golf clubs and I plan to join the camaraderie after being away from the game for the last 15 years. If I can come out and take this big a risk, so can you. Let’s make this a great event and help raise money for the Clarice Garrett Scholarship Fund.

Even if next month doesn’t deliver better news on the economic front, the Triad Chapter can bring a ray of sunshine to your day. Join your old friends and meet some new friends at our monthly meeting and our annual golf tournament. Mark your calendars now. We look forward to seeing you.

Ron Graves
2008-2009 Triad Chapter President

© 2008-2009 Triad Chapter of the American Society of Safety Engineers