Update from Bruce Ski Club President Mike Campbell
Staring out the window at the green grass in the yard, it’s hard to believe that we are only in mid March. It’s been a short cross-country ski season this year. One day it would rain, the next we would get a dump of snow. The ground never really froze and this made it difficult to groom the ski trails, especially the Colpoys and Rankin trails.
Having said that, we have had some pretty decent cross-country skiing this year. I have to commend the hard work of the trail captains and groomers for the fantastic job they have done in dealing with really adverse conditions.
This year our ski club hosted many events and races and we had a very successful Jackrabbit cross-country ski program with over 80 children. Many elementary schools and high schools in the area use our trails for their ski programs. These children are the future of our club and they are learning a skill that they can use for life.
We are really pleased to see that our membership numbers are still over 700 members even with the increase in membership fees last year. The executive are not recommending any changes to the membership fees this coming year. Last year we increased the rates in order to set aside funds for the purchase of new grooming equipment for the Sawmill Nordic Centre.
Between the generous donations of club members and increased revenues from membership sales, this year we have been able to set aside $15,000 in reserves (our goal was $10,000) for the purchase of a new groomer for the ski trails. This brings our reserve fund up to approximately $105,000. The cost for a new groomer is approximately $250,000. We have also made a grant application to the Ontario Trillium Foundation for $130,000. Keep your fingers crossed. We should hear from them in the next few weeks.
The Bruce Ski Club operates the most affordable, accessible and best maintained cross-country ski trails in Ontario. We accomplish this because of the strength of our volunteers. Thanks to everyone who helps out, regardless of how small or large your contribution, you make the club happen.
Special thank you to our many Sponsors and Friends who contribute to make this ski club affordable for everyone. Thank you to our patron Suntrail Source for Adventure. In addition to supporting the club as a Patron, Suntrail sponsors many of our events, including the Cross-Country Ski Equipment Swap, Men & Women on Skis and Suntrail Special.
Lastly, I remind you that Bruce Ski Club does not own any of the trails on which we ski. We owe a great deal to the landowners who generously allow us to ski on their property. If you meet any of the fourteen landowners, please thank them personally for sharing their property.
Our Annual General meeting will be held on April 14th, at 7:00 pm at Sawmill Nordic Centre. The meeting is open to all members and the public. This is your opportunity to have input into the operation of our club. New ideas are always welcome!
