SPW Chapter NCTA Executive Committee Minutes of 3/13/00

Members Present: Ramona Venegas, Mary Soule, Ed Chappel, Joan Young, Angie Addington

Meeting was called to order at 6:40 pm.

First item of discussion was the size of lettering on the signs. We all agree that Brook should use the letters that are about 2" for the larger size, and try to order 1" ones for the smaller size. Mary will follow up on this.

We looked at the tabulated figures on the demographics of our membership list. We were somewhat encouraged at the findings, noting that half were local while we had been feeling that fewer members were local.

The Manistee Visitor's Guide is soliciting entries for a tourist booklet which will be sold. There were various levels of paid advertisements, and a free entry. The issue will be referred to the general membership since it may involve a cost.

Work projects for the summer:
• Time to get plans ready for the 2 bridges. Ramona says that Steve McDowell of the FS has AutoCad and would love to help do drawings.
• Repairs could be made to the sand hills south of Udell

Summer meetings:
• The extra May meeting to prepare for Trails Day will be May 29.
• Char would like to see summer meetings held outside, SO:
• The July meeting will be held at Magoon Creek (downpour alternative- Ranger Station)
• The August meeting will be at the SPW Conservation Clubhouse at Bear Lake
• The September meeting will be at the Audubon house in Manistee. (needs approval)

The Forest Service plans to deny closure to bikes of the half mile of trail north of Udell Hills Road. Group approved writing a letter to John Romanowski to protest

There is nothing to report on the Chicago Avenue landowners.

The trail crossing of tribal land near Blacksmith Bayou is subject to Tribal Council approval. Bill Parsons was contacted but has not returned calls.

The NTD Committee has met and the tentative budget is set. An $850 Field Grant is applied for. There has been interest from local Scout groups. The committee will go to look at the site on April 7.

Ramona noted an opportunity to speak to a school class about trail building. This was brought to her attention by Diane Walker of the Baldwin district. Joan will be contacted about this.

Meeting ended at 7:30

Minutes taken by Joan Young in the absense of Ed Morse, secretary.