November 10, 2003


Dear TLTA Member:

It's hard to believe it's already November, with the holidays just around the corner. Before any of us can relax, however, our TLTA plate will be overflowing for the next six weeks or so. First, of course, the upcoming Rate Hearing will be held on December 15 at 9:30 a.m. at the Texas Department of Insurance in Austin. For details on the Rate Hearing, click here.

As reported in last week's Breaking News, the Commissioner of Insurance announced on October 29 that several Rule Hearing agenda items will be republished with an additional comment period in effect through December 8, 2003. These items will also be published in the Texas Register on November 7, 2003. Just as a reminder, these items have not yet been formally adopted, although it is anticipated they will become effective January 1, 2004. To view the full Commissioner's Notice of Adoption and details on submitting comments, click here.  In addition, the Commissioner disapproved some agenda items that were under consideration. For a complete list of disapproved items, click here.

I'm pleased to report the 2002-2003 Financial Audit was recently completed with excellent results. We continue to make great progress in reducing expenses and improving TLTA's overall financial position. We are committed to maintaining the financial discipline that will enable continual improvement of services, benefits, and advocacy for all members. If you would like a copy of the audit, it is available through the TLTA office by contacting Leslie Midgley.

TLTA seminars are continuing to draw attendees in record numbers from all over the state. The Austin Regional Seminar held October 14 and 15 and the Advanced Closing Issues Workshop held November 5 in San Antonio were both sold out. My hat is off to our education committee and staff who have worked hard to develop innovative and timely topics for you and your co-workers.
 
COMING UP ON THE CALENDAR
Advanced Closing Issues Seminar     Irving, November 13 
Texas Land Title Institute   Hyatt Hill Country Resort, December 4 and 5
Houston Regional Seminar   Doubletree at Post Oak, January 13 and 14
TLTA Board of Directors Meeting  Doubletree at Post Oak, January 14
Abstract & Examining Workshop   Doubletree at Post Oak Hotel Houston, January 15

To view the complete 2003-2004 TLTA education calendar, or for additional program information click here.

Our Individual Membership program is really taking off! As of November 6 we have 154 Individual Members. The message we want to communicate is very simple – by joining as an individual member, your employees can get more involved in their profession and in TLTA. For more information click here http://www.tlta.com/about/indmemberprizepromo.asp.

The TLTA 2003-2004 Membership Directory was mailed to members in mid-October, and for the first time includes branch listings for those member companies that chose this optional feature. We hope the branch office listings will make it more convenient for our members to reach individuals within each company as well as give a more accurate reflection of the total membership of TLTA.

Plans for this year's Annual Conference in Corpus are in full swing. Our education staff is working on tying down details for special events and speakers as well as contacting potential sponsors and exhibitors. I've been told we can expect a line-up of unique and fun events this year, so don't miss out! Join us for Smooth Sailing in Corpus Christi, June 4-6, 2004.

As the season of Thanksgiving approaches I would like to extend my appreciation to each and every member of TLTA for your continued support of our industry and our association. And, as always, if you have questions or concerns, please contact me or Leslie Midgley.

Best regards,



Dave Ginger
TLTA President