The annual Lone Star Rally is scheduled from Oct. 31 through Nov. 3. This event brings an additional 200,000 to 300,000 visitors—and motorcycles—to the Galveston region every year, and we expect this year will be just as busy, if not busier. 

As always, UTMB will be here for visitors and residents who need medical care throughout the event. But as we work to help keep our community and our visitors safe and healthy, I want to make sure our faculty, staff and students remain safe as well. Please remember the following as this year’s Lone Star Rally gets into gear:

·         If you are traveling to one of our Galveston County locations during the rally, your commute may take longer than usual. Traffic will likely be heavy on roads leading to and around Galveston Island, and you’ll be sharing the road with large trailers and hard-to-see motorcycles. Leave yourself ample time and exercise extra caution when driving.

·         Many areas of Galveston Island will see very large crowds. As in any large crowd, be aware of your surroundings, your companions and your belongings at all times. If you see something that makes you feel unsafe or you see someone in need of assistance, call 9-1-1.

·         This is generally a weekend of heavy usage of our emergency departments and urgent care clinics, and supervisors must be able to plan appropriate staffing. As always, if for any reason you are unable to report to work as scheduled, let your supervisor know as soon as possible.

Thank you for taking such great care of the community during these high-profile events. Wishing you all a safe and enjoyable weekend, wherever you are!

Dr. Ben G. Raimer
President ad interim