The Council meeting featured several interesting sessions—first some speakers on custody issues in Tennessee.  This is a subject that may arise in the Legislature next year, as there is dissatisfaction with current rules.   Incoming national president, Elisabeth McNamara presented a session on the new membership initiative the LWVUS is undertaking.  Our 2 in-state trained membership coordinators, Faith Tapp of Knoxville, and Lynn Williams of Nashville, then shared some of the insights gained at their recent training in Charlotte.  Expect to hear from them.

 Lobbyist Stewart Clifton summarized the Legislative session to date, predicting lively sessions as the budget adoption process gets underway at the close of the session. 

 Business Meeting: The budget was discussed with little controversy with one change—adding $200 to host and update the state website.  Members present discussed the advantages and disadvantages of becoming involved with the Judicial Diversity project initiated by LWVUS. 

 On Sunday morning, the business meeting continued.  The additional amount for website work was approved, with a compensating increase in projected contributions.  The sense of the group is that we should take part in the project.  We will keep you apprised of progress, but please be aware of this project as you do your planning over the summer months.  And if your League is more than minimally interested in this project, please let me know.  I am aware that some Leagues will be more interested in this than others.  That is OK. 

Meanwhile, the rains continued.  Little did we know how much—it was quite enough to wash out our Sunday meeting — Due to flooding, ost Nashville folks, including our speaker, could not get here.  So, the business meeting was shortened and the Sunday board meeting was deferred.  Thus, we do not have final plans for the summer meeting and Voter.  We are seeking a volunteer to help produce the Tennessee Voter.