A note from Friends of the W, a loosely gathered group of alumni, individuals, businessmen and women who support the W:
Things are never dull during a legislative session.
Last week, we sent a Call to Action regarding a Senate hearing at 10:30 a.m., today. IHL Commissioner Hank Bounds would present board recommendations. We expected merger and, maybe, name change would come up during that meeting. Well, this afternoon expectations got a little clearer and a lot more worrisome.
Sen. Doug Davis, chairman of the Senate Universities and Colleges Committee, contacted Betty Lou Jones this afternoon to let her know that there will be a hearing at 1:30 p.m., Monday, Feb. 1 in room 409 of the state capitol on name change for Mississippi University for Women. He said he will allow two representatives from each side of the issue to speak.
The Columbus Lowndes Development LINK sent an e-mail to their members this afternoon asking for support and a presence at the hearing in favor a name change. We understand that they have said that they anticipate more than 100 supporters.
We will need folks at the Capitol in OPPOSITION to name change. Your participation, once again, is vital.
Plan to arrive at the Capitol by 12:30 p.m. Go directly to Room 409. If the doors are open, please take a seat. If not, wait near the entrance. We will have handouts available with talking points and other information.
Between now and Monday, call, write or e-mail individual members of the Senate Universities and Colleges Committee: Doug E. Davis, Sampson Jackson II, Hillman Frazier; Tommy Gollott; Alice Harden; Briggs Hopson; Billy Hudson; Gary Jackson; Tom King; Nolan Mettetal; Gray Tollison; Johnnie E. Walls; and, J. P. Wilemon, Jr. You can find their contact information here. In addition, contact Lt. Gov. Phil Bryant and let him know that you do not agree with the proposal!
Phone: 601-359-3200
Email: pbryant@senate.ms.gov.
For more information, contact Friends of the W.
