Black, Mann & Graham LLP

BMG’s 25th Anniversary: Calvin Reflects on Colleagues’ Impact ???? As we celebrate 25 years of Black, Mann & Graham, we’ve invited team members to share stories about colleagues who have shaped their professional paths. Today, we’re highlighting a reflection from Calvin Mann Jr., who recalls four team members who left a lasting mark: “I would say David Dulock made a meaningful impression on me because of his scholarly approach to the practice of law.?He has a mind for the law and used it well.?Linda Rollins and Diane Gleason have always impressed me with their calm yet decisive demeanors.?And Robin Lyons – she was a client before she came to work for BMG.”?

When it comes to doing business, all roads lead to Texas! From its #1 ranking in U.S. exports to its position as the nation’s top job creator, the Lone Star State continues to be a powerhouse for economic growth. It’s no surprise that lenders—from credit unions and independent mortgage brokers to major banks—are taking notice. For more than two decades, Black, Mann & Graham has been proud to support financial institutions entering or expanding in Texas, helping them navigate the nuances of doing business here with knowledge and insights. Check out this snapshot of Texas’ economic strength, provided by the Texas Economic Development & Tourism Office.

Checking in with Client Relations Specialist Machelle Blaesing For Machelle Blaesing, life has always been about connection—whether it’s with her colleagues at Black, Mann & Graham, the foster kids she mentors, or the serene waters of Lake Athens, which she now calls home. Two years ago, Machelle and her husband, Craig, made the move from Frisco to the lake, embracing a lifestyle filled with boating, sunsets, and giving back. They both work remotely—Craig with Bell & Howell and Machelle as a Client Relationship Specialist for BM&G’s Dallas office. The transition has been seamless, offering not only a peaceful retreat but also meaningful opportunities to volunteer. One of Machelle’s passions is working with Skiin’ With the Galilean, a nonprofit that introduces foster children to water sports like skiing and swimming in a safe, supportive environment. A neighbor at the lake invited her and Craig to get involved, and they’ve been hooked ever since. Every summer, Machelle finds herself deeply invested in the kids they meet, watching them build confidence on the water and in themselves. When she’s not volunteering, Machelle is honing her golf skills—often testing her swing on a simulator that allows her to play world-famous courses like Pebble Beach. And when the weather is just right, she and Craig love to take their boat out for a peaceful sunset cruise. Machelle’s love for family is just as strong as her commitment to work and community. Her daughter, Maddison, a Texas Tech business marketing graduate, now works at Baylor Scott & White in Frisco and dreams of a career in medical sales. Maddison still competes in English hunter-jumper events across North Texas, but when she’s not in the ring, she treasures time at the lake with her parents. As she reflects on more than 20 years with the firm, Machelle remembers the many mentors and friendships she’s built along the way. She credits Gregory Graham for teaching her the business early on and now enjoys working closely with Steven Kubik, whom she describes as a great listener and the perfect fit for the team and the firm’s culture. Through every season—whether on the water, the golf course, or in the office—Machelle embodies the warmth, dedication, and care that have made her an invaluable part of the BM&G family.

Stay Ahead of Mortgage Industry Changes Keeping up with evolving mortgage industry policies, rules, and regulations is more critical than ever. Our Legal Team shares timely insights and expert perspectives to help you and your team understand these changes with confidence.?Of course, we are always available to answer your questions, so don’t hesitate to reach out. ?? Subscribe at the bottom of our homepage to get BM&G’s Clients and Friends memos delivered straight to your inbox. Here’s our latest: https://lnkd.in/geiwe-Jy https://lnkd.in/gcCYvVKs https://lnkd.in/gWTgZV4Z

Going the Extra Mile: Celebrating Christana Coleman We take pride in recognizing team members who go above and beyond—in the lasting impact they have on those around them. This month, we’re excited to honor Christana Coleman as our Extra Mile recipient! Christana first joined us in 1997—several years before BM&G’s formation—and has worked with us for a combined 20 years. Through various roles and transitions, she has remained a valued part of our team, bringing dedication, expertise, and a strong commitment to client service each day. As Client Operations and Sales Liaison and our Salesforce Administrator, she plays a key role in ensuring our clients and colleagues receive the highest level of support. Family is at the heart of everything Christana does, and she considers them her greatest blessing. She’s a proud mother to Catherine, Mary, and Tanner and grandmother to Rohan (Ro), Theodon (Theo), and Indigo Tom (Indy)—who are her next-door neighbors on a 10-acre property they share with eight beloved horses in Celina, Texas. Fun fact: Two of her grandchildren are named after characters from The Lord of the Rings! Christana is also passionate about literacy, making sure her grandchildren develop a love for reading by creating a screen-free environment at her home, along with plenty of outdoor adventures, including hikes at nearby Lake Ray Roberts. Christana’s story is one of dedication—to her family, her team, and the clients she supports daily. Her impact at BM&G goes far beyond her role, and we are grateful for all she does. Please join us in celebrating Christana Coleman for always going the extra mile! ????

BMG’s 25th Anniversary: Willy Reflects on a Mentor To mark our 25th anniversary, we invited our team to share stories about colleagues who have had a lasting impact on their professional journey. Today we’re sharing a memory from Wilhelmina 'Willy' Wilson Curry about our late friend and colleague, Jo Bates: “I wanted to say a little about Jo Bates, a colleague we lost last year. She worked at BM&G for over 20 years. Here is a picture of her (on the left with Robin Lyons and me) ?from the first Christmas party we attended together back in 2003. Jo Bates was my mentor, my teammate, my colleague, my second mother, and my best friend for over 20 years. She taught me everything I know about the mortgage business, and I would never have come to work at BM&G had it not been for her. She welcomed me into her home office in 2002 and not only made me a part of the BM&G team but a part of her family. She made an immeasurable contribution to the firm and to my life, and though I miss her tremendously, I carry her with me daily. Every time I QC a file, she’s the voice in my head reminding me to check those fees and that legal description one last time.?She made ME better in so many ways, personally and professionally, and I will be grateful for her every single day for the rest of my life.”

BM&G’s 25th Anniversary: Rachelle Remembers a Surprise Dinner in Vegas To celebrate our 25th anniversary, we asked our team to share some of their favorite memories. Client Relationship Specialist Rachelle Rowan, CML remembers a surprise dinner in Las Vegas to celebrate the merger of two clients. “Being a part of the BMG family has afforded us the luxury of witnessing our clients’ growth and success. To celebrate two longtime Houston clients – Encompass Lending and Elite Financing Group – who merged a few years ago, Calvin and I flew to Vegas to surprise them at a dinner meeting and offer our in-person congratulations!?Here’s a photo that captures that moment with Wayne King, Josh Bibler, Calvin Mann Jr, Natalie Bibler, myself, and Paul Marsh.

?? A BM&G Brand Update! ?? You may have noticed our refreshed BM&G brand, marking our 25th anniversary in business! We designed our new logo to celebrate our growth. Soon, you’ll see the new design across our website, email signatures, and signage at industry events. While our original logo paid tribute to our paper-based roots, our new look embraces today’s digital landscape—and our evolution within the real estate finance industry. And there’s more to come! This year, we’re rolling out new technology solutions, including our API integration with ICE Mortgage Technology's Encompass doc solutions to better support our lender partners. Our success is built on the strong relationships we’ve developed with lenders in Texas and across the U.S. Each day, we strive to uphold the legacy of our original partners Thomas E. Black, Jr., Calvin Mann Jr, and Gregory Graham—staying true to our core values like making Continuous Improvements and conducting ourselves with Integrity. These values have defined our firm from the start, guiding us each day as we carry forward the vision Tom, Calvin, and Greg set in motion 25 years ago. Thank you to our clients and friends for being part of our success—we look forward to a bright future and many more years of service to you!

March presents new opportunities like the AUSTIN MORTGAGE BANKERS ASSOCIATION luncheon this Wednesday when Texas Mortgage Bankers Association President Jodie D. Cochran, CMB will share a legislative update and TMBA’s Biennial Advocacy Day later this month in Austin. Click on the story link for a list of this month's opportunities to learn, connect with clients and friends, and advocate for our industry. https://lnkd.in/gzWv_w4e

?? Extra Mile Award: Celebrating Sam Buchanan's Dedication and Client Care ?? We are thrilled to shine the spotlight on Sam Buchanan, our latest Extra Mile Award recipient! Sam joined us as a part-time legal assistant in August 2015 and quickly transitioned to a full-time role in 2016. Nearly a decade later, he continues to make a tremendous impact on our Houston legal team. Sam’s primary responsibilities include reviewing and preparing closing documents and handling related document preparation work. Through it all, he remains in constant communication with his clients—primarily mortgage closers. One of Sam’s strengths is his unwavering commitment to building strong relationships with his clients. His attention to detail, paired with his approachable and proactive communication style, ensures that every transaction runs smoothly. His clients and colleagues alike know they can rely on Sam to bring both skill and heart to every project. Reflecting on his journey with Black, Mann & Graham, Sam shares, “When I started, I had no experience in this field. I’m so grateful the firm took a chance on me, provided the training I needed, and gave me the flexibility to thrive. What truly makes my job special are the people I work with and the fantastic communication among our team.” Outside of work, Sam’s creative side shines through his love for interior decorating, shopping, and binge-watching shows like Scamanda and Real Housewives. He recently returned from a memorable road trip to Santa Fe, where he explored the immersive art of Meow Wolf and enjoyed the breathtaking views of the Santa Fe National Forest. We are so fortunate to have Sam as part of our team. His dedication, positivity, and genuine care for both our clients and colleagues truly exemplify what it means to go the extra mile. Congratulations, Sam!