Coal Preparation Society of America

Message from the President

 From the Fall 2020 Issue of the CPSA Journal

We are three-quarters of the way through 2020 and it has been quite a memorable year. Not necessarily memorable in a good way, but memorable, nonetheless. A global pandemic, destructive hurricanes, wildfires, a roller coaster stock market, record unemployment, civil unrest, and who knows what else lies ahead. As we enter the last leg of the presidential election campaigns, we are a nation that is deeply divided along party lines with seemingly no common ground. While there will always be disagreement and differences of opinion on almost everything, we should strive to treat each other with dignity and respect. From a morality standpoint, we should apply the “Golden Rule”, the principle of treating others as you would like to be treated yourself. Whether you consider voting a right, a privilege, or perhaps a duty, I encourage everyone to follow your beliefs and conviction by casting your ballot for the candidates of your choice.

The coal industry continues to be depressed and the outlook for the immediate future is not strong. Coal companies are trying to reduce spending whenever possible in order to survive until the inevitable upturn in the market cycle. This reduction in spending also adversely impacts suppliers and service providers to the coal industry. Due to these unfavorable market conditions as well as the limitations and restrictions due to the Covid-19 virus, the CoalProTec conference scheduled for November in Charleston, WV has been postponed. The Board of Directors of the CPSA is currently discussing options for rescheduling the conference in 2021. Stay tuned!

I would like to take this opportunity to recognize a milestone in the world of Coal Preparation. Professor  Gerald (Jerry) Luttrell officially retired from the Mining Engineering Department at Virginia Tech on August 31st. “Mr. Prep” as Jerry is known to the CPSA and the industry as a whole (and never has a nom de plume been more appropriate) has made innumerable contributions and innovations in the field of Coal Preparation. I was privileged to attend many technical presentations and seminars where Jerry’s infectious enthusiasm for all things coal prep inspired me to strive to improve the plants where I worked. We all wish Jerry well in this next phase of his career.

As always, we at the CPSA appreciate your support and would love to hear your opinions on all things Coal Prep. Take care or yourselves and stay safe!

A. Joel Franklin

President, CPSA