Hello Members
Since my last President’s Message on November 5,2023, I am happy to report much positive news. We have a hard-working executive, and it has strived to operate the Club in a sound fiscal manner, to increase membership, and to promote a feeling that the Club is a place where its members can look forward to a friendly, competitive bridge game. Day-to-day operations have been running smoothly thanks to the excellent work of our Club Manager, Anne Martens.
Attendance
Attendance in the winter months has been steady and should improve when the snowbirds return. There are many new members, most of whom play on Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday. Most new members are graduates of Maureen Nichol’s Beginner Bridge lessons and her Play and Learn sessions.
Financial
During the first 10 months of the current year (as of January 31, 2024) the Club had an operating surplus of $9,681.00. This compares with an operating deficit of $9,430.00 as of January 31, 2023.The Club has a healthy cash reserve, most of which is invested in GIC’s.
The Board does not expect to, nor does it want to continue to generate operating surpluses. This is unlikely because rent payments are now higher and recently the Board increased the fee paid to game directors and salaries to employees. This was long overdue.
Our Treasurer, Marvyn Hall, recently prepared a Break-Even Analysis report and determined that going forward an average of 9 tables at each game is required for the Club to generate enough yearly income to pay its yearly expenses. We don’t presently average 9 tables per game but in time I expect we will.
Night Games
Historically the Club held popular night games, mainly to accommodate working members and members who preferred to play in the evening. Post covid, the night game continued but eventually was put on hold because of low attendance. Recently some members have inquired about reinstating the night game and The Board is open to giving it a try. A sign-up sheet will be put on the bulletin board. Those members wishing to play in a night game are asked to sign up and indicate their preferred night and preferred starting time. Working members and non-regular playing members can contact Donna Wales at 705-927-4031 or email at Cameron.Wales@sympatico.ca. The next Board meeting is on March 27, 2024, at which time the Board will decide on the fate of the night game.
Evening Play and Learn
Last fall Dwight Goden conducted a series of lessons for beginners, in the hope that the Club could attract younger working members and revive the night game. The Board is also considering hosting an evening Play and Learn session for those students who may not be able to attend the current daytime classes. An email will be sent to Maureen and Dwight’s students letting them know of these plans.
Swiss Team Game
This is another Club game that was historically popular. Our Club is hosting a Sectional Tournament on September 22 to 24 and a Stratified Swiss Team game will be played on the last day. It is important that we have a good turnout for this game. Many of our new members have never played in a Swiss Team game and don’t know how it works.
The Board has decided to reinstate the Swiss Team game and plans are underway to hold a game in May, likely on a Saturday afternoon, and monthly thereafter. There will be a 30 minute lesson on Swiss Team strategy prior to the start of the May game. Swiss Team games are fun, and I hope our members support them.
Annual General Meeting (AGM) New Directors
I want to remind members that our AGM will be held in May. This gives members an opportunity to express their views and ask questions.
New directors are elected at the AGM. This year there are 5 director positions open. Some present directors may run for re-election but presently there are 2 directors not running for re-election. A nominating committee consisting of Sandy Campbell, Lyn Stevens, and Darrell Rowe is looking for members wishing to serve on the Board. If interested, please speak to one of the committee members.
Bill Fox, President of the PBC.
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