Chairman's Message by Josh Holland: Speak Up

Speak Up

It’s easier now, more than ever, to join in and speak up for our industry thanks to the TMRA website and social media sites. Be sure to check the “Latest News” tab at www.TMRA.com for the latest issue of TX Mining Monthly and to catch up on past issues you may have missed. TX Mining Monthly is full of great stories and beneficial information related to the mining industry with real stories and information from our members. Follow us at @TMRASocial for Twitter and Texas Mining and Reclamation Association for Facebook. These tools provide a constant source of current and up-to-date information, news releases, supportive articles, and events which can help you speak up by liking, sharing and re-posting. We don’t all need to be sales men and women to speak up for the mining industry; when people learn the benefits and the responsible manner in which mining takes place, it sells itself.

Partnering with TMRA to support the Teacher’s Workshops is a prime opportunity to expand the reach of your impact. Teachers can gain up to 45 continuing education units for free with factual knowledge on the benefits of responsible mining which in turn empowers them to teach and shape viewpoints toward mining for generations to come. To date, close to one and one half million Texas students “have been exposed to the fact-based messaging that explains mining’s value to the state and the economy” (Texas Mining and Reclamation Association, 2018). Through the Sponsor-A-Teacher program and the annual TMRA meeting and auction, TMRA is not only able to support Texas educators but also to promote education, safety, and environmental stewardship to our young and growing minds. Consider supporting this powerful tool and help our voice be heard. Sponsorships can be purchased online via the “Sponsor a Teacher” link at the TMRA website provided.

With this year’s Legislative Session coming to a close, the TMRA Government Affairs Committee is continuing to lead the charge in speaking up for the mining industry. Take a look at the TMRA Government Affairs Quarterly Report in this issue of TX Mining Monthly for an update on the great work being done at the Texas Capitol. Also be sure to join us at the end of the Legislative Session on May 27 for the Sine Die party at The Long Center in Austin, TX. You can continue to speak up with TMRA by purchasing tickets and sponsorships at www.TMRA.com or by calling for more information.

I’ll leave you with a spurring quote by the great Winston Churchill: “I like things to happen, and if they don’t happen, I like to make them happen.”

Best to You All,

Joshua Holland
TMRA Chairman