b'2024 State ReportWASHINGTON Independent Distributors of Energy ReportThe WIDE WireVOTE YES, PAY LESS: FORMER EMA CHAIRMAN Four Initiatives that Gerry Ramm Wins 2024Can Change the Course forDistinguished Service AwardWashington We are thrilled to announce that Gerry Ramm, A significant wave of energy, effort, andformer President of Inland Oil Company in financial resources is rallying behind the LetsEphrata, Washington, has been honored with Lea McCulloughGo Washington initiatives, which will be onEMAs prestigious 2024 Distinguished Service WA AssociationAward (DSA).Executive Director the ballot this November 6th. Among these, Initiative 2117 stands out, aiming to repeal theIn 1982, at just 26 years Climate Commitment Act (CCA) and dismantleold, Ramm took over the associated Cap and Invest and Low Car- Inland Oil Company, bon Fuel Standard programs. These programswhich his father founded currently add an estimated 34 to 36 cents perin 1946. Under his gallon to fuel costs. However, experts warnleadership, the company that if the CCA is not repealed, this cost couldgrew from a small Shell potentially double after the election. Specula- wholesale operation into tion has already driven some out of the carbona significant business, credit market, seeking to avoid losses on creditsemploying 125 people purchased through the state program. and handling up to 50 million gallons of product Should I-2117 succeed, the state will beannually by the time it was sold in 2008. Ramm required to unwind the entire CCA program, re- remained with the company as a consultant versing the costly measures linked to it. Despiteand continued to make substantial contribu-persistent efforts to derail I-2117, including ations to the industry through his involvement lawsuit by Defend Washington challenging thewith various councils and associations, includ-validity of signatures, the initiative was uphelding the Washington Oil Marketers Association by the Supreme Court, allowing it to remain on(WOMA), the Western Petroleum Marketers the ballot. Association (WPMA), and the Energy Market-ers of America (EMA), formerly PMAA.The other three initiatives include the StopHis dedication extended beyond the oil Natural Gas Ban, Repeal of the Capital Gains industry, serving on local councils, chambersTax, and Give Workers a Choice on long-termof commerce, and even care coverage. All three enjoy strong support. sponsoring a golf tournament WASHINGTON STATE benefiting the Boy Scouts CONVENTION A SUCCESS! of America. After a brief retirement, Ramm returned The 2024 Washington State Convention, heldto serve as President of in June at Suncadia Resort, was a resound- EMAs subsidiary, the ing success. With record attendance, a vibrantSpirit brand, where he trade show, a sold-out golf tournament, and anplayed a pivotal role in expanding services and outstanding lineup of industry speakers duringaligning the brand with EMAs mission.the General Business Session, the event exceeded expectations. Evening enter- In recognition of his unwavering dedication tainment by Kevin Viner was trulyand remarkable contributions, we extend our JUNE 17-19magical, captivating the audiencedeepest gratitude to Gerry Ramm for his many 2024for hours. years of service, particularly to our home state of Washington. His commitment to excellence Planning is already underway forand passion for making a difference have left an the 2025 convention, which prom- indelible mark on our community. Congratula-ises another strong lineup. This time,tions, Rambo, on this well-deserved honor!the event will be held at the Davenport Grand in Spokane, WA. Be sure to mark your calendars for June 16-18, 2025!46 www.wpma.com / Fall 2024'