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President's Message

Sheila Wilson, TCRA President

"At times our own light goes out and is rekindled by a spark from another person.  Each of us has cause to think with deep gratitude of those who have lighted the flame within us." - Albert Schweitzer

At times this year when the flame from my torch was pretty low and the path was dark, the members of this board, its committee members and the members of this association rekindled this old girl too many times to count.  I’d like to take this opportunity to point out some of the contributions this board and its committees and members have provided this year, and how they have brightened my journey.

First off, as a result of resignations your board was faced with the daunting task of absorbing many duties and responsibilities into other positions.  Due primarily to that, just as my spirit seemed all but extinguished in the fall of 2011, Lisa Blake asked if I needed help.  No doubt she could see the desperation on my face.  Her guidance and calming presence reignited me in more ways than she’ll ever know!

Newsletter Committee.  Middle Director Renee Ray agreed to chair the Newsletter Committee.  She and I worked hand in hand on the first two issues this year, and then she   found her wings and flew solo the last two.   I am forever grateful to Renee for assuming this responsibility.  Eastern Director Kristin Schultz and Western Director Joy Goodman worked diligently on securing all-important advertising  this term.  Advertisers are what make newsletters possible! Renee, Kristin, Joy, Website Director Lynette Mueller, and Administrative Director Gayle Hassler worked together like a well-oiled machine to bring you top-notch newsletters this year.  I cannot thank this committee enough for their hard work.  

Bylaws Committee.  In light of last year’s Bylaws change, further tweaking must be done this year to conform with the now fluctuating Annual Business Meeting date.  Kristin and Secretary Patricia Gildea volunteered to work with me on drafting proposed language which will be voted on this year.  While not within the scope of their regular duties, they stepped up without hesitation.

Membership Committee.  Patricia Gildea has chaired this committee for two years.  Under her guidance and the work of her committee members, this association has grown tremendously.  Patricia also rewrote the now updated Handbook which you can view online.  Excellent job!

Scholarship/Mentoring Committee.   Renee and Tricia Davis have co-chaired this committee for two years.  Their passion and dedication to court reporting students is unsurpassed.   They constantly look for ways to encourage students and grow the Tiffany Brosemer Student Scholarship Fund.  On behalf of every student in our state, thank you!

Convention Committee.   TCRA member Laurie Creech, Vice President Allison Gossett, and myself worked unbelievably hard to secure a convention contract this year.  The obstacles we overcame are far too many to list.   TCRA owes a huge debt of gratitude to Lori Wells, Melissa Smith, Laurie Creech, Teri Campbell, Lynette Mueller, Peggy Giles, and Gayle Hassler.  They  have exceeded all expectations to bring you the best convention ever!  

Legislative Committee.    Peggy Giles, Trish Smith, Laurel Eiler, Teri Campbell,  myself, and  TCRA lobbyist Don Baltimore have spent countless hours and hundreds of emails staying current on legislative matters affecting court reporting in our state.  A truly amazing group of people with incredible insight.  TCRA is truly blessed to be in such capable hands. 

Education Committee.  Under the leadership of Lynette Mueller, this committee did an outstanding job of providing quality CEU opportunities at affordable prices.  Be sure to read Lynette’s report in the April newsletter!  In addition to this committee, Lynette has revamped TCRA’s website, thus making us a strong online presence.  Her vision and creativity is a beacon for folks like me who sometimes get lost in the dark!  

CCR Committee.  Kathy Elmore and her committee members has continued implementation of the CCR program and updated the program’s policy language.  Equally important, she has kept TCRA fiscally sound during her time as Treasurer, and was secretary last year.  Kathy is a shining example of exemplary board service.  I’ll take a road trip with her any day!

In addition to the activities listed here and in our newsletters throughout the year, your board has been active in our national associations,  provided input to other state associations, and is putting the final touches on a pro bono program.  By the end of April 2012 we will have spoken to approximately 200 paralegals and legal secretaries on the topic of accepting gifts. While we have not put an end to improper gifting in our state, we have made great strides toward that goal.  We have done our best to bring you accurate information and provide you with the best guidance we can.      

A special thank you to TCRA members Mary Vandercook, Donna McWhorter, Lynda Clark, Dana Holloway, Leslie Peeples, Stefani Simmons, Cheri Sullivan, Memra Surles, June Onks, Tammy Spooner, Lelia Nolan, Marilyn Morgan, Laurie Creech, Melissa Smith, Lori Wells, Laurel Eiler, Trish Smith, Teri Campbell, Ginger Truesdel, and Rita Hermanny for their work on committees.  Your can-do and will-do attitude has made this association successful this year, and has recharged my batteries on numerous occasions!

Administrative Director.  Gayle Hassler has served as TCRA’s Administrative Director many years now.  Personally, I think her initials, G.H., stand for the Glue that Holds us together!  The services Gayle has provided are beyond explanation.  No doubt her eyes rolled back into her head many times over some of the questions I’ve asked her this year.  But she never faltered in not only having the answers, but made me feel whatever stupid question I asked was the most insightful question ever.   Gayle Hassler is hands-down the epitome of what an Administrative Director should be.   She is TCRA’s lighthouse!

I cannot end this term without letting you know how inspiring you have been.  You have been a constant spark of motivation and a bright light shining down this path.  What an honor and privilege it has been to serve you.  Thank you for taking me on this incredible journey.  My greatest hope is perhaps I have sparked an ember in you like you have lit the fire in me!  

Your humble 2011-2012 President,
Sheila.