MINEOLA, Texas - The Southwest Motorcoach Association, a newly formed organization of coach operators and industry vendors in Texas, Oklahoma and New Mexico, has hired an executive director, elected officers, established offices and kicked off a membership drive.
The association, which was formed this past summer, hired David Newton, who has a background in business, marketing and journalism, as executive director.
Elected president was Gene Shields of Eagle Tours in Irvine, Texas; chosen vice president was Robert J. O'Brien of Time Lines in Oklahoma City, and named secretary-treasurer was Robie Morgan of Tyler Shuttle in Tyler, Texas.
Filling out the association board of directors is:
* Mark Steelman of Amtour & Lone Star Coaches in Grand Prairie, Texas
* Patrick Conner of Sierra Trailways in South Houston, Texas
* June Bratcher of Daisy Tours/Conventions San Antonio
* Lannie Rogers of First Class Tours in Houston
In addition to managing the association, Newton also will operate a small business, Newton Consulting, which sells computer networks and phone systems.
Newton says he's excited about helping launch the association and is initially focusing on building membership and a bank account. Letters and membership applications have been sent to upwards of 200 coach operators and industry suppliers in three states.
In addition, Newton is completing organization of the association, establishing an office in Mineola where he lives and making contacts. A presence on the Internet is in the offing, as well as a membership directory and winter meeting possibly in January or February.
The address for the association is: Southwest Motorcoach Association, 20056 County Road 452, Mineola, TX 75773. Mineola is about 30 miles north of Tyler, in northeast Texas. Phone numbers are: (903) 882-5933 and (800) 955-4762.
Individuals and organizations interested in membership or supporting the association should contact Newton.