We had a wonderfully exciting meeting in Alexandria.  Thanks to Rae, Keri and Candace for hosting.  The food was delicious.  Dr. Balsamo gave a very impressive presentation on the Louisiana Animal Welfare Commission (web link under "Links to Gov't, Welfare and Cruelty Laws") and his vision of the future for the organization.  LAWC can be a formidable advocate for animals.  Erica with PEP, The Pet Education Project (check them out at www.peteducationproject.org) gave a wonderful presentation on what her group is doing in the schools.  What an energetic young woman.  Met great new people who are fighting the same battles we all do.  As our Vice-President said, "these meetings are like group therapy."  How well said.  If you missed it, we're sorry.  If you attended, thank you for bringing your energy, ideas and friendship.  We must stick together through the battles, or we lose the war.

$4,440 from a Pet Overpopulation Fund that is used to sterilize adult animals belonging to indigent owners has been taken by State Government to reduce the budget.  See all relevant links below.
This fund is supported by the sale of "Animal Friendly" license plates, and donations.
The state takes all of $4,440.00 from this fund to cover a $1.6 billion budget shortfall.
THIS IS OUTRAGEOUS !
Please email your senator, representatives and the Governor and let them know how wrong this is.  $4,440 can spay/neuter a lot of animals but will not make a smidgen of a dent in the budget deficit.
 
Article in the Advocate:   http://theadvocate.com/news/legislature/289261-64/shortfall-addressed-for-now.html
 
Pet Overpopulation Fund Site:  http://www.lapetplate.org/grantinfo.htm
 
Find your Senator:  http://senate.legis.state.la.us/Senators/
 
Find your Rep:  http://house.louisiana.gov/H_Reps/H_Reps_ByName.asp
 
Email Governor:  http://www.gov.la.gov/index.cfm?md=form&tmp=email_governor
 
As requested by Holly Reynolds