The Classic Returns!

 

Just back from the Lake Champlain Classic and I wanted to get my thoughts out to everyone on what a wonderful event this was.  Short and sweetly put, this weekend was a return to the "Good Old Days" of Bergen Classics.  Throughout the year, we fish against each other and in a one-day event, guys are often so wrapped up in their own preparation and planning for the tourney.  The Classic gives members and opportunity to kick back and relax.  While it's not a points event, there's no shortage of competitiveness as bragging rights definitely go along with a victory at this tournament.  The fact the Stinky Steve had won an unprecedented 4 in a row and 5 of the past 6, only added fuel to the fire as competitors wanted to knock off the "King of the Hill."    Regardless, competitiveness did not take center stage as togetherness out shown everything else about this Classic. 

 

It was truly great to see guys helping each other out, whether is was fixing trolling motors, sharing baits, or just talking a fun bit of "smack."  a few guys went out on their own and bought a few kegs and set up what turned out to be one of the largest "tailgate parties" the club has ever seen.  The club pretty much took over the parking lot, unloaded loads of collapsible chairs and just hung out smoking cigars and telling fish stories....this is how is should be.  On Friday night, before a few of the "old guys" went to bed early, I counted about 20 of the 25 members in attendance out in the parking lot.

 

The fishing wasn't too bad either although many would say the lake seemed a bit "off."  The slop bite was a lot harder to come than many had hoped and some, myself included, found it difficult to locate quality fish or any concentration.  When my boat went down Saturday, good fortune and a flip of a coin paired me up with Nick Albano.  Thanks Nick for a great day on the water and putting me in the right areas to boat a few good fish.  Congratulation to John Ernest, who seems unstoppable this year, on his first ever Classic win and Doug Giachino and his runner up finish as a non-boater.  Watch out guys, Steve has vowed that he will be back next year!   To all members, great job on a very memorable Classic and to those who did not attend, you missed a helluva time!

 

Important Meeting in September. 

 

After a recent Board meeting, the Executive Officers conducted a financial review of the club's annual income and expenses.  As you know, the club makes no profit and all proceeds goes back 100% to the membership.  However, we have found the with the simple increases in how much things costs over the past few years, we are not keeping up.  At the September meeting we will be reviewing with the club the big picture and will be talking about possible solutions to the problems.  Guys, we've had it good for a long time but for the past few years have been surviving on numerous "one-time" or inconsistent benefits like winning Chapter of the year, record buddy tournament participations, and FLW paying our insurance fees for the Federation.  We simply cannot count on things like this and must be self sufficient.  These should be added bonus monies, not depended upon to operate.  It is a serious concern for the board and all members must be aware of this situation.  therefore, it is critical that every member plan on being at the September club meeting.  Hope to see you there. 

 

Thanks, 

Mark

 

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