Chairperson's message for December 2006
View from the chair. . .
As I am writing this December SPE newsletter message, it’s hard to believe that we are almost already through the shortest days of the year, and after December 22, the days start to grow longer again. It’s the start of a new year and the Los Angeles SPE is hoping to start some new programs.
Before I discuss the possible new programs, I would like to remind everyone of one our most important events, the annual LA SPE Golf Tournament held in May. This fund-raiser is the single most important one for the LA SPE. It provides the majority of our operating budget for each year. Over the past years, Mark Shemaria has done a great job in spearheading the tournament program. He is asking for more volunteers to help at the event this year. Mark is holding the first tournament meeting Wednesday December 13th, 11:00 am, at the Tidelands Office. Please contact Mark directly (562-495-9392) as soon as possible or contact me at LOVESM@IX.NETCOM.COM, and I will forward E-mail to Mark.
One of the new programs we are hoping to start is a LA SPE Job Fair in February. The job fair would provide LA SPE members with an opportunity to network with local employers, as well as out of state companies. It also provides understaffed companies a chance to talk to some of our highly qualified members. The Job Fair would also be an LA SPE fund-raiser, with booth space paid for by the participating companies. I would be happy to discuss the Job Fair format and particulars with any interested companies.
Lastly, another new program we are planning for is the Young Professionals Social, headed by our LA SPE Vice-Chairwoman Brady Fellers. One concept was to have this event twice a year for 1) all the new college graduates that have recently taken jobs in the LA area, and 2) all the college students that are planning careers in the petroleum industry. With the help of seasoned and experienced SPE members, both the new professionals and the students could receive career guidance, discuss their personal experiences, and network.
As usual, we are planning another interesting and timely technical presentation at our December Forum meeting – so please plan to attend. It’s a great way to meet old friends, new friends, and local companies. I hope everyone has a fun and safe holiday season.
Scott McGurk
Chairperson, SPE Los Angeles Basin Section