Ruminations Upon Retiring
Exit Comments from Mark Larson
In a English class at New Mexico Military Institute, I was fortunate to have an excellent instructor, Lt. Col. Richard Limbaugh. He said that anything worth writing should always rise to the level of “a good read.” I have endeavored these 15 years attempting to assure that my reporting and yes, even position papers, were a good read. This also translates into the importance of effective lobbying and “telling marketer stories” to educate legislators and regulators…and the public, about all thing’s petroleum marketers. That was the easy part because all of CWPMA’s members have interesting and disparate stories. The rub came in painting a clear picture that would motivate the listener to believe and take action accordingly. I was very fortunate to have early mentors like Lt. Col. Limbaugh followed by the examples and guidance of you, my employers and friends.
I was so very fortunate to have fallen into the position of Executive Director with the assistance of Roy Turner. Having been a marketer for decades, seasoned by stints with a major oil company (Union Oil), a major transportation and logistics leader (Ryder Systems), law enforcement and four terms in the Colorado legislature, the term “paying your dues” has a particular relevance all of you will knowingly appreciate. For me, serving as your Executive Director and subsequently, Executive Vice President was a dream come true… a perfect ‘fit’, if you will. I knew the industry well and loved telling your stories.
The best part of the past 15 years was being able to work side by side with people I admire, respect and trust. The work ethic and drive to succeed is a common denominator that binds the industry together… the blood, sweat and years that hone strength, integrity and a common bond seldom experienced in the new normal today. On the streets, you would rip the flesh off your competitors’ bones. But when the chips were down, each of you would respond immediately and with conviction because of intergenerational traditions and a genuine love of the promise that makes this country great. I was proud to tell your stories. I was fortified by a solid and well reputed recognition of your community values and caring by all those with whom I worked. The American dream is alive and thriving in CWPMA.
No industry is without its challenges today. The old adage that the only thing that is certain in life is change, still holds true. Unfortunately, change is a subjective term with little reverence for balance or magnitude. While the COVID years put the economy into a tail spin, marketers stayed the course, endured the nightmares of the unknown and showed surprising resiliency and durability. But crafting the new normal is by no means over. I shudder to reflect on the randomness of unpredictability and the significant role that condition plays on the industry’s future. I have laughingly stated many times that my crystal ball was broken when asked about industry related prognostications. What the industry is experiencing now is no laughing matter and serious multi-optional game plans must be fostered and routinely updated. Those that remain nimble and fluid, those that determine to influence their future and not let others influence it for them…well, like generations before them, they will survive.
Most of my success was because of our members. The importance you play in your communities, the relationships you develop, the involvement you maintain and the integrity you embrace is the backbone of the Association. Walking the talk is so important. Lobbyists all too often paint a picture of their clients that reality and interactions do not support. This was not true of our industry…and it takes great effort to keep the industry izzat strong.
My one parting request is that the industry continue “doing the right thing” and standing tall on accountability. We have stumbled lately on selling to minors. We have been lulled to sleep on the hard work of relationship building with policy makers who make impactful decisions on our businesses. Yes, we have some exemplary marketers but overall, we are slipping. Finally, in my humble opinion, we have allowed larger organizations to ignore the policy implications some decisions have on the industry as a whole with little or dismissing regard to smaller operators. This does not align with our history, sense of fair play or industry unity. Please do not succumb to an “end justifies the means” philosophy solely for the sake of the bottom line. This is one nuance that may ultimately be the death knell of the Association. Some will take umbrage to this comment and demand examples. Please accept these parting words of a former advocate, former marketer, employee and true friend and take them as they are offered… with a deep love and hearty approbation of the industry and its stalwarts.
Thank you for allowing me to work with and represent you all these years. You were incredible to work for and with. And I cannot leave without expressing my sincere appreciation to Grier Bailey for putting up with my “old ways” and rigidity. He is a bright, capable and deeply convicted leader that gives 100%, 100% of the time. It was a pleasure working with him and ultimately, for him. I leave knowing the Association is in good hands long into the future.
Finally, I have terminated my work email. My personal email is Larson_denver@msn.com should you wish to communicate with me. My phone number remains the same, (303) 941-7830. Until we meet again, thank you and be well.