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Toledo Bend Bi-State Alliance
Minutes April 24, 2006
The meeting was called to order by Janna Lehman, Acting Texas Co-Chairman.
Janna Lehman gave the opening prayer and led the Pledge of Allegiance.
Janna welcomed visitors and members and asked all present to stand and introduce themselves.
There were no changes to the Agenda.
Minutes of the March 27, 2006 meeting were approved as written.
Janna Lehman, Treasurer, reported there are 12 organizational members and 45 associate members now paid in 2006. The current balance is $2,110.50. All bills have been paid.
Treasurer’s Report was approved as given.
Old Business:
LAWYER’S FUND: Janna reported a current total of $2650 in the separate account for the Lawyer’s Fund. There have been 750 solicitation letters sent out and from this mailing, 44 checks in various amounts have been received. Janna said she had questions from several people regarding the use of these funds being used for a possible lawsuit. Some suggested it be used to explore other legal means, so Janna asked Larry Kelly to summarize the history of TBBSA and all the efforts put forth so far leading up to the formation of the Lawyer’s Fund. For the benefit of new members and visitors, Larry gave a brief summary of the history and actions taken by TBBSA in an effort to convince the Sabine River Authorities to limit power production when the lake level drops to 168 msl. Legislation was passed in Louisiana through these efforts, but that law has been challenged through a lawsuit. So, there is not much left that can be done except through the court.
TOLEDO BEND WEB SITE: Janna apologized about the TBBSA web site not being updated with information and letters that have been received. She said Frank Dutton is very prompt about posting any information she gives to him. The web site can be accessed at www.toledo-bend.com/alliance.
EAST TEXAS REGION I PLANNING COMMITTEE: No report.
New Business:
COST OF BULK MAILING: Janna said the 200 solicitation letters that she had permission to send additionally were not sent yet as she had not been able to compare lists to make sure she didn’t send duplicates. She did look into the cost of bulk mailings versus regular mailing, and it is reasonable. Printing, which includes everything except the postage, would cost 26 cents each, if there are at least 200 or more. Janna discussed various options and asked for other suggestions about rewording the letters, and which lists to use. It was suggested we get our letter formatted and the lists to be used, and send out the letters in July or August. Also, it was suggested the bass tournament groups be contacted to get help from them in sending out our letters.
APPROVAL OF NEW MEMBERS: Bob & Charlene Neal of Hemphill, TX were approved as members.
APPROVAL OF PAYMENT OF OUTSTANDING BILLS: None submitted.
SRA OF TEXAS HISTORY BOOK: “Las Sabinas” copies are still being passed around, but none are available right now.
OTHER NOTES: Unwritten qualifications and guidelines for a possible candidate for appointment as a board member to the Texas SRA were discussed. Janna said Gene Nethery was agreeable to serve and seek appointment, but would like to know TBBSA’s expectations of a board member from this county. Janna will get back with Mr. Nethery and let him know we will support him.
Next Meeting Date: Monday, May 22, 2006
Meeting Adjourned
Respectfully Submitted,
Betty Griffin, Secretary
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