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A new year has started which affords us the opportunity to involve ourselves even more in what may seem to be a new island.  Hurricane Isabel left a mark upon our hearts and the island, but Mother Nature as an even more profound effect in the long run.

 

     Depending on whom you speak with, the thoughts regarding the island range from completely destroyed to thoughts that the island is much better off for fishermen.  In any case, we still have the same island we all care about and I encourage each of you to commit yourselves to make a lasting contribution both financially and through work trips. 

 

     Opportunities will arise for us to go to the island and assist in the rebuilding efforts.  It was hoped that something could be done soon after the hurricane, but logistics and the extent of damage has prevented much action to this point.  The Park Service is doing a great job in planning and rebuilding the infrastructure there.

 

     I hope you plan on attending the annual meeting to be held February 28 in Pineville.  Many questions will be answered there which may affect your thoughts regarding the rebuilding efforts and long-term plans for both the Club and the island.

 

     Our Board voted to donate $1,000 graciously given to the club by Neil Tucker to the Salvation Army.  We sincerely appreciate a donation of this magnitude and felt that it was appropriate to match his donation.  I am advised that the Salvation Army was instrumental in relief efforts to the residents of the Davis area.

 

     Tournament plans for this year are underway with promises of another great event this year.  The tournament committee is working hard to get donations for more prizes and our Tournament Director Mark Weir is fine tuning the process will unparalleled precision.

 

     I hope that each of you had a great Christmas season and that this New Year brings you and your families much happiness and success. 

 

     I look forward to seeing each of you at the annual meeting.

 

Roger Wise

President’s Letter

P.S.       Our annual meeting will be held February 28, 2004 at the Pineville Fire Station.

 

     The Board of Directors will meet at 9:00 with lunch starting at 11:00.  The annual meeting will start promptly at 12:00.  We plan to have the same great fried fish and “fixings” we normally have and hope you come hungry!

 

     This is your prime opportunity to ask questions and learn about club related activities.  Please mark this date on your calendar and bring a prospective member with you.