OTA Dispatch Summer 2015

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4 Oregon Truck DISPATCH
PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE
A new look—and new name—this is your first edition of the OTA Dispatch!
My hope is that as you peruse this magazine you will see what OTA’s leadership
and staff are doing to improve the association’s services to you, our valued
member. Greek philosopher Heraclitus from 500 BC once stated, “Nothing
endures but change,” and I have to agree with him. New technologies are
speeding up the pace of change we see today and industries have to be nimble
to succeed.
That holds true for associations as well. The Oregon Trucking Associations
is, and has been, a highly respected, effective association representing your
business interests for many years. The speed of change around us necessitates
change as well—in how we communicate with members, elected officials, and
the public; in training and programs that provide value to membership; and in
member benefits that help your business grow. We are working on all aspects
of the services we offer to you and the new look you see in this magazine signals
the start of that journey.
You will see articles that highlight some of the events we have done for a number
of years—but with a new sense of participation and excitement. Our Spring
Summit in May had over 200 participants and provided a wealth of information
to all the attendees. The Truck Driving Championships in early June were a huge
success with over 90 driver participants and hundreds of family members and
company personnel there to support the event with food, fun, and festivities!
And in late June our TMC Maintenance Fair & SuperTech event was filled with
informed speakers and excited contestants. You will see a little “snapshot” of
these events in this edition and my hope is that it will encourage you to
participate in these events next year as we work to fine-tune our programming.
You will also get a briefing on this year’s legislative session. I spent a large
portion of my time in Salem working with Bob Russell as we focused on policy
to help your business. It was certainly one
of the most difficult and challenging
sessions in all my years lobbying and
while business interests were not well
received, we managed to stop some of the
worst ideas that had momentum.
Unfortunately we were not able to amend
the Low Carbon Fuel Standard that
passed in the first weeks of the session
and bring a transportation package
forward that would have meant new
roads and infrastructure. There is work
left to do… and we are committed to that
task on your behalf.
My hope is that you will help us accomplish the goals that your board of
directors has given this organization. Come to our Annual Meeting on
September 10 at the Holiday Inn in Wilsonville and give us feedback as we roll
Jana Jarvis
OTA President
It was certainly one of the most difficult
and challenging legislative sessions
in all my years lobbying and while
business interests were not well
received, we managed to stop some
of the worst ideas that had momentum.