The June TCH luncheon was our Annual Business Meeting and was held at Brady’s Landing on Houston’s east side on June 24 at 11:30.  Over 60 members and guests were in attendance and enjoyed rib-eye steak and a host of fun. 

The featured speaker was the always-pleasing and informative HARRIS COUNTY JUDGE ED EMMETT, who gave attendees his view of our region’s transportation scene, including the freeway commuting picture, the commuter rail outlooks, and the bright future of the Port of Houston.  Judge Emmett received appreciation gifts including a special keychain.  Our special thanks to Judge Emmett, who graciously gives of his time to help connect us with our government.

Outgoing officers and directors of the 2007-2008 year were all awarded an embossed TCH logo portfolio and a leadership book “The Blue Flame Project” (by Bill Webb, formerly of TMTA), all provided by outgoing President Danny Schnautz.  Also, four “Hardworker Awards” were presented: Past President Ed Schinnie (Transport Service) for his work leading the Education Committee and on the Nominating Committee; Jamie Joiner (Baker Hostetler, LLP) for her work in organizing events and leading the Sponsorship Committee; Past President Rebecca Taylor for her work on the Speaker Committee; and Executive Secretary Russell Powell for his tireless work in all aspects of the club.  These winners received an embossed TCH portfolio and leadership book, plus a bookstore gift card, engraved Cross ink pen, and a music CD by Ray Carlisle which explains “The Reality of Trucking (A Left Lane Experience)” (www.raycarlisle.com).   A special thanks to these four who went above and beyond with their work for the club last year.

John Kendall with the Houston Maritime Museum received a ceremonial check for $2,500 from TCH Director by Larry Snellings (dangerousgoods). This check in in support of a student intern who is working at the museum at the expense of TCH.  This continues a years-long relationship between HMM and TCH, going back to the founding of the museum by the late James Manzolillo. 

Outgoing President Danny Schnautz gave a very brief farewell speech lauding the contribution of the 2007-2008 leadership.  Many quality speakers were brought to our luncheons, and a long list of other successes (including BEEF at some luncheons!).  The attendees of the luncheon themselves were part of the success of the 2007-2008 year by being right there, right then.

Finally, new officers and directors were installed by Transportation Clubs International representatives Lynn Donovick (Martin Midstream Partners), Lory Tauber Don (Tauber Oil), and Dennis Tam (DJ Railcar Services). 

The previously announced two free giveaways at this luncheon were American-made TCH logo pencils and 12” rulers, compliments of your outgoing club President.  All attendees were able to help themselves to these items, and more will be available at future events.

Photos of the luncheon

The June luncheon sponsor was CLARK FREIGHT LINES.  Door prize sponsors were: Brady’s Landing; Clark Freight Lines; Euro-Hub International, and outgoing TCH President & First Lady Danny & Celessa Schnautz.