Page 6 - Texas811 Magazine 2021 Issue 4

Summer just blew by us and now we are moving into the fall, finally. It may take a couple of months for the weather to cool down, but as far as Texas summers go, we had a pretty mild one. Weather has such a huge impact on our industry. Good weather = more excavation
which also means an increased risk
of damage to underground facilities. The DPC of Texas team has remained steadfast in spreading the Call Before You Dig message regardless of external circumstances. We continue to adjust and adapt to the ever-evolving climate that is COVID, which I now consider
a four-letter word. Our members have remained faithful to our mission and adapt and adjust with us as we navigate changes to meeting restrictions and in- person gatherings.
The DPC of Texas was fortunate to
be awarded the PHMSA Technical Assistant Grant (TAG) as reported earlier this year. With that funding,
we were able to launch an online training program for pipeline safety in Texas. The “Living and Working Near Underground Pipelines in Texas” course is offered to EVERYONE at no cost to you or your company. FREE training that benefits anyone who participates. You can register by visiting www. dpcoftexas.org/education.
We are gaining momentum with our Leading Women of Damage Prevention initiative as we gather more members, mentors, and industry support. Check out the article in this issue “Are You a High Performer?” by President Ketha Molina for a sample of the type of challenges that we address at LWDP meetings. Looking for ways to support the LWDP? Consider purchasing a premier t-shirt in either purple or black to raise funds for the operation and ultimately, expansion of the LWDP. To purchase a t-shirt, become a member, or to find the latest information on what the LWDP is doing and how you can
By Jennifer Pratt, Program Manager Damage Prevention Council of Texas
get involved, go to www.dpcoftexas.org/ leading-women-of-damage-prevention/
Even with grants and sponsorships, DPC of Texas continues to have a need for funding so we are always looking for new and innovative fundraising opportunities. One of the ways we are raising funds is through the launch
of the 1st Annual Northwest Regional Turkey Shoot held in Pampa, Texas on September 18th, 2021. This skeet shoot fundraiser was proposed, planned, and executed by former DPC Board member Lance Johnson, Energy Transfer and assisted by current Board member Brandon Jennings, T&M Line Locators. The Turkey Shoot is a shining example
contact me at jennferpratt@dopcoftexas. org. We look forward to seeing you on the golf course.
With the new year quickly approaching, it is time to start preparing for board elections for the DPC of Texas. Soon, we will be launching our call for nominations and if you or any one you know is interested in serving on the board of directors, consider nominating yourself or other damage prevention superstar involved in Chapter meetings or events. Board members serve a two-year term with elections held in late January, early February and may participate in the Advisory Committee when their term is complete. For more information, visit our website at www. dpcoftexas.org/board-elections.
It is so hard to predict what we will
be able to do in 2022. Will we be meeting in person, or will we need to find new ways to keep our members engaged? Covid contingent, we intend to resume in-person DPC chapter meetings and regional DPC/OSHA Alliance construction safety workshops as soon as our board of directors
deem it appropriate to resume normal operations. The popular excavation safety days will no doubt return and you will have an opportunity to learn from others in your immediate area as they share their best practices for safe digging around underground facilities. For more information, contact your Chapter President or regional Texas811 Damage Prevention Manager. Keep an eye on our calendar at www.dpcoftexas. org/calendar as we add more dates and options for training and educational opportunities for all industry stakeholders.
The Damage Prevention Council of Texas looks forward to seeing you at upcoming meetings and safety events, either virtual, in-person, or hybrid. Invite a co-worker, excavator, contractor, and even your boss to attend.
Damage Prevention
Council of Texas
Quarterly Update
of member volunteerism, furthering the success and continued operation of the organization. Note: The birds were clay and no turkeys were harmed during this fun filled day in the Texas Panhandle. For details on how that event turned out and who walked away with the prize money, visit our Facebook page for this and other interesting information.
We also have our annual golf tournament on November 15, 2021, at the Lantana Golf Club not far from the Summit host hotel. Registration fees are $100 per player or $380 for a foursome. Breakfast and lunch will be provided with registration. If you would like to volunteer to assist with the tournament,
4 • Texas811 2021, Issue 4