This letter was sent to me personally by US mail - I received it 5-2-03.
So I've just typed it in.

John J. Carona
State Senator
P. O. Box 12068
Austin, Texas 78711

April 28, 2003

C. Thomas Clowe, Chairman
Elizabeth Whitaker, Member
James A. Cox, Member
Texas Lottery Commission
P. O. Box 16630
Austin, Texas 78761-6630

Dear Mr. Chairman & Members:

As I am sure you are aware, I have been besieged by inquiries from constituents who play the lotto games. The core of their concern lies in the fact that you are changing the games, and thus the odds of winning. The item of note that received my attention was the fact that your agency purchased all of the necessary equipment to employ the changes before they were even approved by the commission. While it is within the commission's authority to consider and adopt such changes, to say the least it was a BAD business decision to make such purchases in advance of adoption.

As an elected official I go to great lengths to avoid even the appearance of impropriety and I admonish my staff to do as well. Although you are not elected, your actions and the actions of your hires reflect on the elected officials responsible for your commission. I hope that you will consider your public role as you approach future rule changes and give respect to the constituents that we share.

Sincerely,

John Carona