How 'bout them Giants?  Some Important Club Notes...

As I sit in my office watching the snow fall the day after the huge Giants upset of the Patriots in the Superbowl, I have to wonder how close is spring?  Groundhog Day saw the little rodent seeing his shadow and forecasting six more weeks of winter and it certainly looks like it today, however I hear it will be in the 50's by the end of the week.  Regardless, we are in the midst of the fishing show season and that means it will be time to uncover the boats very soon. 

We have two great club activities quickly approaching.  Twelve Bergen members and guests will be meeting up at the "Rock" to take in a NJ Devils game on February 8th and on February 23rd, we'll have our second road trip of the year.  This time to Cabela's in Hamburg, PA.  With a generous club discount being offered, it's not just a great day out with the guys but also a way to save some cash on new rods, reel, electronics, etc...Of course, you can always look for a deal at our Annual Swap Meet at the February meeting!!!

One lingering issue that we will attempt to put to rest at the next meeting is the controversy surrounding the removal of the 4th and 5th place payouts.  In November, it had been voted to oust these to save the club money, however many, many bassmasters do not feel that it is necessary and want to overturn the ruling.  John Hayden had motioned at the last meeting to reinstate the payouts and it was seconded.  After some discussion, it was believed that this could not be done for a six month period of time once a rule had been changed by vote.  After researching Robert's Rules of Order, I did not find anything pertaining to a time limitation and did find that it is entirely within the rules to motion that a vote be rescinded.  Anyone can make that motion (as John did last month).  At this month's meeting, I will put the question to the membership once and for all and will require a 2/3rd majority vote in order to overturn the initial vote.  If 2/3rds do not approve, the payouts will not be reinstated this year.  Be there in February to voice your opinion if it matters to you!

On a completely different note, we need to address the matter of our Annual Outing for the Disabled.  Our Chairperson, Brian Mahoney, has taken a leave of absence and will no longer be able to coordinate this event after this year, the 20th Anniversary.  While the event has grown and basically has begun to run itself, we still need someone to step forward to take the reins while there is still time to learn from Brian this year.  I hate to say that if no one steps up, next year's event may be in jeopardy.  We must understand the big negative implications of this event going away as we gain a lot of benefits conducting this outing, not to mention the kids losing out.  It's time to step up.  perhaps not just one person but two or three.  Manage by committee and it will be easier for everyone.....now is the time.

See everyone in a few weeks and for now, celebrate Big Blue's Victory!  An unlikely one and certainly one of the best Giants games I've ever seen!