canoe paddling as a way to further diversify our club and thereby increase membership. Let us have a hearty discussion about this and other concepts at the up and coming AGM dated January 25^th 2012.

 Are we confident that we can maintain or better still increase our membership numbers to insure a well oiled machine and growing membership to and beyond our 50^th year? It is obvious we need to recruit members for both lake and moving water paddling. Nephews, nieces and grandchildren are the likely and possibly the most eager and enthusiastic recruits that are only a telephone or a seasonal dinner away. Better yet sit down with junior, who may have kids of their own, in front of the computer and let them show off their computer prowess. To peak their interest in canoeing or kayak recreation have them Google search “Canoe the White Salmon River” or “Paddle the Bawron Lakes”. They cannot be bored with these links especially the U Tube Video. How sick (cool) is that!

 A successful membership drive must go global. Please bring forward your recruitment ideas for discussion purposes at the January meeting. We are looking for 3 or 4 people to serve on a Membership Committee that will be supported in their endeavors by the executive and membership as a whole. 

Floatation Bag Invented by Wally Priedolins

The New Year is starting off with several do not miss events:

January 25th, Dogwood AGM with entertainment by Ted and Freda who are doing a travel log of paddling memoirs of their recent trip along the North Coast of BC setting off in Prince Rupert.

 

February 22nd, Dogwood meeting with entertainment by Chris Cooper who will take us around and about England via a big canoe.

 

Finally, let us make sure we line up new members with appropriate training that starts off in early April and continues through the spring. That is how I personally changed my paddling opinion from “ho hum” in the past to “find me another rapid and this time I am not going swimming”.

Canoeing instruction is available for all levels of canoeing or entry level kayaking.

 

Martin Mosely and Brian Woods
Before Mastering an Effective Brace

Refresher courses on paddling and safety tips are the soundest way to start off a new paddling year for even the seasoned veterans.

Solo Rescue by a Lady

During my first year as President I have learned from the likes of the other contemporary Presidents and PMs like Obama, Putin and Harper that one should stay friendly with the constituents or you will be pummeled, water boarded or in our case keel hauled into line.
 

I will gladly serve another year if you will have me.

Neil Tennant and First Lady Marg Tennant