The ALBC had another good year for 2009 even though the association and everyone supporting the ALBC and others experienced some tough economic times. However, the association did grow some last year by adding a few more clubs and members.

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All the ALBC tournaments went well but could have been better with increased participation in the State Team Tournament and the Tournament of Champions. We need to thank the cities of Natchitoches and Shreveport’s Sport Authority for sponsoring the two events. As well, the Best Six tournament was a great success and thanks go out to the Sabine River Authority and others for their support of the tournament.

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The association saw Academy Sports and Outdoors coming on board in 2009 and sponsoring the association for the Best Six tournament, the ALBC District Youth fishing tournaments and allowing the ALBC to display the raffle boats and sell raffle boat tickets in front of their stores. This has been a great addition to the association.

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The economy had an impact on all of the ALBC sponsors and we are fortunate to have the continued support from some for the coming year. One change that the economy really made was the association had to find another boat sponsor for the annual boat raffle due to Ranger not being able to offer promotions due to the financial situation of its parent company. Pro Gator Boats worked with the association and is now the ALBC raffle boat sponsor. This is a Louisiana made product and a very well made boat. We were able to maintain sponsorship of Mercury Motors but not as good a bargain as we had in the past. The two boats have been active with helping to sell tickets. There is a raffle boat schedule and if your club is interesting in having the boat to help sell tickets, contact Ronnie Cooper to select a date for use of the boat.

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The association lost one of the founders and past President of the ALBC, Huey Lachney, past away in December. Huey was very instrumental early on, in the survival and existence of the association. We owe him a lot and will miss him.

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This year brings a celebration for the ALBC. This is the 40th anniversary of the ALBC. The association was established in 1970 and the board is working on several things to try and recognize the anniversary. Most of the recognition will be done at the Best Six tournament. More about that as everyone thing starts coming together. However, any thoughts about some thing to do will be helpful and if anyone has any pictures of past events or past officers of the association, please get them to us.

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At the January board meeting the board will be working on putting final touches on the State Team tournament, Best Six tournament, TOC, anniversary celebration, possible partnership with LSUA for a scholarship program and printing of the next issue of the magazine. Keep checking the website for updates of the association.