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Toledo Bend Bi-State Alliance
Minutes March 29, 2005
The meeting was called to order by Don Driscoll, Texas Co-Chairman.
The opening prayer was given by Steve McMahan of the South Toledo Bend Civic Assoc.
The Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag was lead by Don Driscoll.
Members and visitors were asked to state their names and associations. A sign-in sheet was circulated. Don talked about the need for a membership drive, and asked for volunteers to go with him to visit organizations that had not paid for this year. Harry Johnson volunteered to go along. Others offered to check with their organizations.
Minutes of the February 28, 2005 meeting were approved as read.
Janna Lehman, Treasurer, reported there are 13 Organizational members paid for this year, and 21 Associate members. There is a balance of $1,790.74. In reply to a question about where the money goes, Janna said most of the money goes for postage, copies and mail-outs to members. Donations have been made by various organizations and individuals. Motion was made, seconded and passed to accept the Treasurer’s report as given.
Old Business:
East Texas Region I Planning Committee: Bill Huegel, representative, was not present.
Legislative Support: Don asked if anyone knew legislators or lobbyists that might further our cause, and explained how large organizations like B.A.S.S.
and the NRA can give a lot of support. Larry Kelly said their addresses can be obtained on the Internet. Don read a letter to the members, that he sent to Sen. Staples regarding the lack of feedback from him about supporting the efforts of TBBSA. Larry said the Senator and Representatives will soon be receiving a lot of letters that are being sent out this week. Larry is looking at a new way of getting mailing lists by using the Sabine County Real Estate Appraisal District database, but he will have to determine how to access the names we need for mailing. Don said a new resident of Pendleton Harbor is a former judge from Hardin County, and a friend of Rep. Roy Blake. So, Don has asked for his help in urging Rep. Blake to support our efforts. Larry explained that HB2993 has only been filed, and unless a Senator will co-sponsor the Bill, it will go no where. Unfortunately, Senator Whitmire and Rep. Ritter have been approached by the SRA and they have convinced them that HB2993 does not consider the flooding problem below the dam or contractual obligations to the power companies. This causes them to fear lawsuits against the State. Larry feels our group should meet with the senator and representatives and give our presentation refuting those concerns. Bill McCarty read a letter, drafted and signed by both TBBSA chairmen, that was sent to Mr. Robert Luft, Chairman of the Entergy Corp., inquiring why employees of Entergy of Louisiana agree to a change in the Operating Guide for Toledo Bend Reservoir, while those in Texas refuse change. Bill stated that if we could provide some way to prove that flooding downstream is not affected by this change, perhaps that issue could be resolved. Since no confirmation that the letter sent has been received by Mr. Luft, it was suggested a copy be sent to him and confirmation of receipt be obtained.
Bill noted copies of the letter were sent to Sen. Staples and Rep. Hamilton.
Fund Raiser: Plans to have a fish fry to raise operating funds for the organization were again discussed. Stan Verret said the building could be obtained for the fish fry, but the main thing is getting a good buy on fish fillets, and he explained how they handle the preparation of the food. Four fish fryers will be needed. They charged $6.50 for ages 12 and up, $3.50 for children under 12. The date for the Fish Fry was set for April 30th.
A crew will be needed to work on Friday, and be ready to start about 8 AM on Saturday morning. Joe Kelley said it takes a lot of work by all the members. Getting notices out in the newspaper and on radio is very important. Janna Lehman will enlist help from people experienced with handling a fish fry.
New Business: None
Approval of New Members: None
Approval of Outstanding Bills: Two bills were submitted for approval and payment. One for $ 40.00 for the Real Estate Appraisal District database and one for $10.90 to Pendleton Harbor Property Owners for copies made of the letters to be sent our legislators.
Next Meeting Date: Monday, April 25, 2005
Meeting Adjourned
Respectfully submitted,
Betty Griffin, Secretary
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