Pub. 57 2016-2017 Issue 4

7 SUMMER 2017 Texas Dealer Academy at The Capitol R ob Braziel, TADA’s CEO for Legislative Affairs, mobilized dealers from all over the state to meet with their elected leaders in the just concluded regular ses- sion of the Texas Legislature. Rob, along with the six Texas metropolitan association executives, had Texas franchised dealers working the hill on behalf of 1309 dealerships in 284 Texas cities and towns. One of the most effective representatives of Texas dealers this session was the Texas Dealer Academy. Led by TDA Chair- manTHarper of Austin andTADAChairmanCarroll Smith, academymembers came out in force for their day at theCapitol. Members of the Texas Legislature saw young Texas dealers from cities such as Austin, San Marcos, Port Lavaca, San Antonio, Victoria, Rosenberg, Conroe, Abilene, El Campo, Harlingen, Sealy, Waco, Pasadena, Cleveland, Cleburne, Waxahachie, Laredo, Temple and El Paso. Truly an im- pressive representation of our entire state and the reason that Texas dealers are so highly regarded in Austin. Dealers get involved, they know their members, and they understand the issues. The future of our industry is at stake virtually every session of the Texas Legislature. Policy makers have to be informed of how their decisions affect our citizens and our industry which is essential to the quality of life of 27 million Texans. Any dealer who is not involved with their fellow dealers through TADA runs the risk of losing the rights and privileges that they have earned through genera- tions of Texas dealerships. The Texas Dealer Academy members made a significant impact on the legislators with their knowledge of the issues, their community leadership, and their enthusiasm to serve Texas and Texans. Thank these youngmen andwomenwho spoke on your behalf this session and who promise a bright future for Texas and for franchised dealers throughout the state. 