The meeting was called to order by President Joe Lightowler at 10:06 a.m.

Board Members present: Sam Blattenbauer, Jim Colbert, Sharon Olson, Dennis Erdle, Bob Smith, Ben Hushka, Greg Pung, Rhonda Wilson, Lyle Hansen, Dave Spanjers, Tom Riedman, and Jason Roth.

Guests: Carla Blattenbauer, Eloyes Hill of Coast Guard Auxiliary, and Wayne Hempick Flotilla Commander, Red River and NW Minnesota flotilla, US Coast Guard Auxiliary.

Minutes of the September 2007 Board Meeting were approved as corrected following email to members.

Treasurer Greg Pung reported a balance of $21,841.02 as of 12/31/07. A written report was submitted and approved.

Eloyes Hill and Wayne Hempick reported on Coast Guard Auxiliary. The Auxiliary receives orders from the Coast Guard but is a civilian organization with the ability to do what the Coast Guard does with the exception of carrying of arms and arresting anyone.

Of interest for lakes residents are public education courses and safety checks. Four different age appropriate boat safety classes are offered free of charge. Available Coast Guard Auxiliary websites will be emailed by President Joe Lightowler to Board members. A suggested date was June 27, 2008 if the Cormorant Township Hall is available. Jim Colbert moved to proceed to investigate time frames available for offering the Coast Guard courses. Ben Hushka seconded. Motion passed.

Carla Blattenbauer requested Board members brainstorm for new advertisers in the new directory and email to Carla. Ben Hushka will get most recent resident list from Becker County prior to printing of the new directory.

Rhonda Wilson reported that the Big Cormorant website continues to be updated. Information regarding the Foundation will be added with user friendly directions for those wishing to donate money.

Tom Riedman had no COLA report. The COLA meetings will resume this spring.

Dennis Erdle and Dave Spanjers reported that three locations will be set up for Northern blockages. FM Walleyes has a money donation for the fisheries fund. Dennis suggested using the donation for adding fingerlings. Joe reminded the Board that the Foundation does have a fund exclusively for fisheries. Dave suggested using the donation for additional Northern blockages.

Sam Blattenbauer reported Spring Fling to be held June 21, 2008 at Cormorant Township Hall. Meal is yet to be determined.

Jim Colbert reported the 4th of July boat parade will be held at 11:00 am on the 4th.

Ben Hushka reported that we currently have 344 paid members up from last year’s 290. A Beach Captain is needed for North Shore Beach.

Sam Blattenbauer moved to purchase a county disc with current residents and addresses. Dennis Erdle seconded. Motion carried.

No report for Zoning and Planning per Lyle Hansen.

Sharon Olson will continue water testing for 2008 beginning in May.

Avis Ohman resigned from the Board after many years of service to the BCLA including position of secretary. Rhonda Wilson nominated Paula Stromstad to replace Avis as a Board member. Jim Colbert seconded. Motion carried. Dennis Erdle suggested a plaque to be presented at the Spring Fling to show the BCLA Board’s appreciation for her years of service. Greg Pung seconded. Motion carried.

Next Board meeting is scheduled at 9:00 am at the Pub on May 3, 2008

Lyle Hansen moved to adjourn. Sam seconded. Motion carried.

President Joe Lightowler adjourned the meeting at 11:30 a.m.

Submitted by,

Sharon Olson, Secretary