March 2, 2011

The meeting was opened with a prayer and the pledge by our Lodge Chaplain Scotty Davis. The next regular scheduled Lodge meeting is Wednesday, April 6th at 5:00 pm. Many thanks to all of the businesses that continue to support our lodge. The the $50 attendance award was won by Brother Paul Moore.

Lodge Business

Brother Gaynor reviewed the current financial condition of the lodge. Financially we are doing rather well. Specific budget details are available during all meetings.

Officer Andy Higgins, Advisor for Explorer Post 5 sent a thank you letter for the donation to the Post. In February President Mestre attended the Explorer Post 5 Awards Ceremony in which the lodge was presented a Certification of Appreciation for the support the Lodge provides the Post.

The Day on the Hill was March 2nd. Unfortunately, only two members from our lodge was present and only a few from throughout the state were present. Unfortunately, it was a lost opportunity should show support for those Senators & Representatives that support the goals of our lodge and the state lodge.

Members voted to purchase a 12’ x 20’ metal Storage Building to be placed at the rear of the lodge.

Members are encouraged to review the letter sent out by Brother Gaynor on 2011 Membership Dues and how the dues are spent.

As a reminder a new set of fees for use of the lodge will be effective on January 1st for use of the lodge. The new fee schedule is members $250 per event and $500 for non members. This does not include a $100 refundable cleaning deposit.

In the future all members wishing to apply for a Life Membership (retired & a member 20+ years) must request it in writing. All members who wish to know how long they have been a member can go to the national website at www.fop.net. You can go to the “Members Only” area and apply for access. Once approved you should find a link to your membership information, including the ability to change your address information.

Members are strongly encouraged to review the FOP Legal Defense Fund on the National Site for complete legal coverage.

Check “Upcoming Events” on the Lodge website for information on events.

Committee Reports

Bylaws Committee:

Nothing to report

Florida Committee:

The dates for next year have already been set and will be August 4-7, 2011. If interested please see Brother Gaynor for reservation details.

Legal Committee:

A member consulted with a Lodge Attorney via phone.

Sponsorships

Members voted to sponsor Brother Jeff Perry in the LE Memorial Unity Ride in Washington D.C. A $500 donation was given to the Blue Knights Georgia Police Memorial Ride on April 16th.

Sick & Distressed

Nothing to Report

Legal Representation

Critical Incident Lodge Attorney - Click Here for details

Members “do not” need the approval of the legal committee if you are involved in a critical / use of force incident. The member or his representative holds sole responsibility for contacting one of our four attorneys should the need arise.

If you are in need of an attorney for any other purpose a member of the Legal Committee must be called before contacting an attorney. If you do not clear the contact of an attorney through the Legal Committee the Lodge will not pay for the legal services.

Legal Committee:

Steve Gaynor, Cobb PD, 770-757-6709