September 2012 Presidents Message
We are now at the crossroads where our summer has come to an end. The heat wave is over, days are becoming cooler and more comfortable to live with; our nights are calling for us to put on that favorite sweater again. The kids are back in school, and the sweet smells of autumn are around the corner.
My time of the year!
Last month our recreation committee put together a wonderful picnic for our member’s enjoyment. The grills where full of burgers, dogs, chicken and brats. Tables had several favorite dishes from our members that many of us got to sample. Members had their boats, jet-skis and swim suits to make for a fun filled day and we had a better than normal turn out this year.
Many… Thanks to Dave and Laura Gabriel and those that helped to make this a successful event. Many of you, as did I had a great time, well done SnomadS…
The Board of Directors held their annual election at the August Board meeting per our By-laws. We have a few changes on the board for the next year. As you know by now our club treasurer for the last several years Ray William made the decision back in January, that he would be stepping down this year. He has made tremendous contributions to our board and the club during his many years in this position; it would take up this entire issue to put into words all that he has done for us. I am so honored to have had the opportunity to serve with him on the board. Ray has made his mark on this club for many years to come, and we will truly miss him on the board. Mr. Williams can never be replaced nor are we trying to.
The goal of the board was to try and find someone with the enthusiasm, needed energy, goal orientated mind set and good people skills to help the SnomadS move forward. We (I) believe have done so. Please help me welcome Dave Gabriel our newly elected treasurer for the next, hopefully years to come. The board is very pleased with the decision made. It will take Dave some time to get adjusted to his new roll but we believe with time and hard work, Dave will bring many great things to his position and the club. Also there was the position of V.P that needed to be filled with Matt Baxter and his family leaving for Texas in June. John Newman has been appointed as V.P for a one year term. I look forward to working with him as the rest of the board does. He also volunteered to take on the lead roll of safety director for the next year to continue the clubs’ state safety training program. Congratulations! John.
Our club secretary position will continue to be Ron Schroeder with his good organization skills that have proven to be viable asset to us.
In the coming weeks we will need to ask all of you to finish filling two positions that will be open for vote. The Presidents term: Myself (2) years and Trustee Position held by Heidi Weisel (3) years will be expiring.
We both have accepted the nominations and are asking to be considered for re-election at the Annual Membership Meeting on September 30, 2012 being held at the Waterford VFW Hall, 1690 Airport Rd, Waterford, Mi 48328. The Meeting Starts at 2 p.m.
If anyone wishes to contribute there time or looking to give back to the club by filling one of these position please call the nomination chairperson: Bill Sheldon or committee members John Newman, Ron Schroeder. They can answer any question you may have and what is needed by you.
While I am on the subject of the general membership meeting, over the years we have tried to always encourage all the membership to attend this meeting not only to show your support for the club, but to help us make the right decision that’s best for our club.
We have tried many different dates & times and can almost count on the individuals that we know will show there support by attending, but it’s a very small percentage. As President I need to reach out to each member and ask “You” to PLEASE take three hours out of your busy schedule and attend this meeting on Sunday afternoon September 30th. There is a need to discuss important issues of absentee voting, club rides, safety classes, and any other topic you feel we need to discuss. This is that one time that you can have your voice heard. So I ask again for your support. We need it….
On a final note:
In the coming weeks we’ll need to have members wishing to help with our clubs biggest fund raiser event of the year, the Novi Snow Show, to please take a moment to sign- up and volunteer to help run our show booth. In addition we need volunteers to assist with the safety class to be held on that Saturday. Ride Coordinators need to get their fliers ready for posting, and motels need reserved. I don’t know about you but, I’m feeling good about the season to come. Colors are changing early this year; leaves have started to fall in the north weeks ago. It’s all going to be here before we know it. I’m starting to get in that mind set early myself, what about you? Looking forward to swinging my leg over a sled again and feeling the rush of the wind in my chest, running thru a field or two after a storm has dropped a blanket of deep fresh snow, o” boy winter on my mind….
James S.Jetke
President