March 14, 2024
Angela Nussel, CERP
Hello, my fellow American Rental Association (ARA) Region Four colleagues. What a whirlwind it has been, especially with The ARA Show™ in New Orleans in February. I think I speak for all of us in saying it was so great to have the show in our region this year! I loved it.
The show was downright awesome! And it was so wonderful to see so many from our region in attendance. I was able to connect with many of you at the Region Four Reception, the Texas Rental Association (TRA) social and the Women in Rental Breakfast as well as at other points during the show. Everyone I spoke with was so upbeat and ready for the coming year. That was exciting.
I love all aspects of the show, especially the educational sessions. The EventsU and the educational sessions on Sunday were fantastic. I took away so many ideas for our business.
I also want to offer a big thank you to Dr. Michelle Rozen, the presenter at the Women in Rental Breakfast. Her presentation was filled with motivation and encouragement. If you have never attended this event before, be sure to make it a must-attend event next time.
We were blessed to have three from our region recognized during the show: Byron Alleman, retired owner of Lafayette Rental Service, Lafayette, La.; Scott Pevey, senior manager, Ditch Witch, Perry, Okla.; and Jennifer Rodriguez, CERP, general manager, Marianne’s Rentals, Oklahoma City. See the story in this issue about the awards, and then offer your congratulations when you see them. They inspire us all.
For me, the show is a total rental immersion. I receive so much from all the networking, education, events and activities on the trade show floor. I left energized and inspired. I hope all of you took away valuable nuggets you can incorporate into your daily workflow, aspects that can benefit you and your entire team.
On the state chapter front, I would like to welcome Taya Young, Amanda McLeod and Ben Bradshaw to the ARA of Louisiana board. Learn more about them in the story in this issue. They will be great assets to the board.
As you well know, spring is right around the corner. That means the busy season for rental is almost here. Are you and your team ready? ARA offers so many resources via its RentalU educational platform. There are sales, customer service and safety courses available. All are primed to help you and your team be ready for the rush of customers.
Plus, the ARA Certified Forklift Train-the-Trainer program will be available this month. Whether you are in event or equipment rental, this training applies. Many state chapters are looking to offer this for members. Watch your email for updates so you can register.
If you have questions on any of the RentalU offerings, contact ARA’s education team at education@ararental.org.
Before I close, I would like to offer my condolences to the family of James Hallman Jr., who died. Dec. 14. He worked for 23 years at Hallman Equipment Rental in Alvarado, Texas. Our hearts go out to his family at this time.
I hope everyone has a wonderful, productive and safe spring. Use the resources available to you to make this busy season the best ever.
Angela Nussel, CERP, ARA Region Four director
Premiere Events
Austin, Texas
512-292-3900
angela@premiereeventsonline.com
