OCTA Minutes

January 23, 2008

President Joe Bishop called the meeting to order and introduced the newly elected members at large, Sarah Hollis and Tommy Clemments.

Mike Roberts was then called on to give the Budget Report.  He reported that the organization has $4,801.99
in the bank, and about $10,000 in a CD.

The floor was opened for discussion about what the money could be used for. It was stated that the prior plan designated the money to a pavilion and bathroom for the John Leslie courts. No final decisions were made.

The next report was given by the Membership Chairman, Pam Grafton.  Her report stated that we have 46
paid members for 2008, and 140 for 2007.

Ideas were discussed for increasing membership. The idea to post a drop box at the OPC headquarters for membership applications and dues was discussed. Member incentives, such as availability to Ole Miss indoor facilities and others, were presented. No final decisions were made.

Winter League director David Heckel was asked to give an update on the 2007-2008 Winter Mixed Doubles league. Play is going well, but current weather conditions were putting a hold on league play.

President Joe Bishop then called on an OPC representation, Michael, to give an update on the Avent Park renovation. Contractors from Louisiana will begin by taking down fences and scraping the courts. The tops will then be poured and will have to be left to set for approximately 60 days or more. This is the major step of the 75 day process. Considering weather conditions, he approximates that the courts will be ready for play in April. When the process is completed, the courts will be 10 inches taller than the current courts. The courts will resemble John Leslie with the sidewalk between each set of courts. Lighting problems were discussed as well as drainage. The lighting still needs further investigation by Michael, and plans are currently being made for contracting someone to work on the drainage problem.

President Joe Bishop then gave a summary of the Mississippi Tennis Association meeting that he and Member At Large Tommy Clemments attended in Jackson on January 12, 2008. The main topic discussed at the meeting was about alternative and flex leagues and their benefits. Junior Team Tennis was also a topic of discussion and will be researched and brought up again at the next meeting.

The next discussion centered on the OCTA Summer Tournament.   The date was voted on and will be May 30, 31 and June 1. The location is still undetermined.


There was no further business and the meeting was adjourned at 8:30 p.m.
 
Respectfully submitted,

Caroline Fair, Secretary