Hello American Rental Association (ARA) members. Welcome to summer. While I have missed this time of year, I will admit that I haven’t missed the 100-degree days. I hope this summer is milder temperature-wise and a positive time for everyone’s business.
The new ARA Healthcare Solution, a partnership with Allstate Benefits and Hub International, is off to a great start with more than 100 inquiries in just the first few weeks. Depending upon when your health insurance renews, be sure to get a head start by getting a quote from this new program. It could offer you cost savings and flexibility in an ever-changing market and workspace.
If you haven’t been to a state association meeting lately, you just might be missing out! The ARA of Louisiana had its golf outing and crawfish boil in April. Also in April, the ARA of Arkansas offered a fun lunchtime gathering at Topgolf. In late June, the Texas Rental Association (TRA) held its annual TRA Roundup. All these opportunities provided invaluable networking and educational resources for both you and your team. Watch your email for information on future events in your state.
Although you may be thinking 2023 is far away, 2022 is halfway over already! If you haven’t made your hotel reservations for The ARA Show™ yet, the time to do it is now! To book your room, click here. The room blocks fill up quickly and you will want to make sure you secure your spot for the premier rental networking, education and buying opportunity in North America.
It was just announced that the next Young Professional Network (YPN) and the Women in Rental conferences will take place Nov. 29-30 in Arizona. Great keynote speakers are scheduled for both events: Galen Emanuele will address “Transforming Impact: Next-Level Leadership, Culture and Feedback” at the YPN event, and Sara Frasca will address “The Three Core Mindsets of Innovation” at the Women in Rental session. Attendees of both events will benefit from a few combined activities too. Registrations opens in August. Watch your email for details so you can take part.
Back in our region, recipients of ARA Foundation and affiliate scholarships were announced in June. Several students from Region Four were awarded scholarships. Read the story in this issue and then offer your congratulations. These scholarships are a great way to help those who plan to make a career in the industry pay for the education they need.
I also wanted to share how saddened I was to hear about the death of Fred Dupy, president, American Party Rental in Austin, Texas. I have known and admired Fred for years. He gave so much of his time, energy and funds to help those in the industry. A story about him is in this issue of the newsletter. Take a look and be sure to keep his family in your thoughts.
On a happier note, I would like to offer a hearty welcome to Gail Rocquemore, owner of A.D. Parties & Events, Weddings by Gail and Red Door Event Suite, Edmond, Okla. She has stepped up to join the ARA of Oklahoma board. Thank you, Gail. Your service is sincerely appreciated.
Speaking of service, I have been lucky to serve alongside so many great leaders in this industry. Some of them are literal “living legends,” still working and networking every day and some have passed on. These giants of the industry work often on our behalf, engaging with lawmakers through legislative activities, organizing networking opportunities and coordinating educational events. We work in an industry that is full of people who just get things done. These leaders don’t have a quitting bone in their bodies, but many times (especially at the local level), they need help. If you aren’t active in your state’s local activities, please show up. If you have experience that you would like to pass along, please volunteer. We constantly are searching for qualified and willing individuals to help pull off events, coordinate activities and serve on the state board. Don’t sit on the sidelines. Get involved. You will be glad you did.
Bryce Puckett, Region Four director
Kirby-Smith Machinery
Oklahoma City and Fort Worth, Texas
817-937-0581
bpuckett@kirby-smith.com