If you see Barb, thank her for everything both she and Mark have done to help the club!

Harold Phillips is also retiring from his officer position, having most recently served as Vice President and Trail Coordinator.  Harold is a charter member who served on the Board of Directors for many years, helping with trail maintenance, outfitting the club building, maintaining club equipment and anything needing an experienced 'jack of all trades', including cooking spuds for the annual BBQ. Harold's dedication and efforts to do the many things needed to keep wheels turning have been invaluable from day one. Harold also plans to be a presence for us and continue helping
out when needed, but wants to take a break from the day-to-day. If you see Harold, please thank him as well!

Stepping up, as she has done so many times in the past, Pat Marra graciously accepted nomination as Secretary for the 2014 season, adding to the very hectic job of Membership Coordinator next year. We have all promised to help out, as both 'jobs' can be a bit much, so if you are looking to help but really didn't feel comfortable being in an elected
position, please let either Pat or I know and we can help you get involved behind the scenes.

With encouragement from Royce Lyboult (many thanks, Royce!!) Rick Talamo stepped forward to become the club's new Vice President.  Rick is a relatively new member of the club who values the trail network and riding opportunities, deciding to come into the role in order to help preserve and possibly grow our network in the future.  His role will be similar to Harold's and we need to support him by helping out on work details, etc. during the riding season.  If you see Rick, please congratulate him on becoming an officer of the club and thank him for volunteering for service!

As for my thoughts ending my first year as President of the club, I have really come to appreciate even more the efforts of our core team; Jermey Bomgren, Regina Lunkenheimer, Pete Lunkenheimer, Dick Blais, Mike Blasciznski, Harold Phillips, Pat Marra, Barb Rieth, Dick Lunkenheimer and many others whose contributions often go unheralded but are essential to the club's success.  I thank them, as their efforts make it happen every day and help keep this club as a premier organization.  Selfless contribution of time, effort and leadership make this group one of the best I've ever been part of, in business or volunteerism. I am personally honored to play a small role and work alongside such quality folks.

Another group I need to thank are the families of volunteers, as many sacrifices are made when the club needs help; without their support, we'd be in trouble! (As would our volunteers!).

Finally, you've heard me call for volunteers several times this year and many have come forward to offer time, contributions and expertise when the club needed it most. Next year, we need to support our new Vice President /Trail Coordinator and hopefully more will step forward with their leadership to help provide the bench strength so essential to keeping the club a success for many years to come.

Thank you all for a successful riding season and for your continuing support!

Phil McCann
President - Oswego Valley ATV Club