President's Page March 2014

Whether March comes in like a lion or a lamb, nice spring weather can’t be far away and I know some of you have toes tapping, maybe for St. Patrick’s Day.  Not to mention, we’re all anxious to bring vehicles out from winter storage.  With all the snow this winter, farmers will be happy to have that moisture in the ground and our waterways will be replenished. 

What a great turnout of members, children, grandchildren and guests for Family Day at Northfork, Quebec.  We were blessed with clear and calm full-sunshine blue skies as we enjoyed the woodland trails on the blanketed sleigh that was gently pulled Blondie and Brandy and doggy mascot Maggie. Afterward we warmed up in the chalet and enjoyed some good old Valley songs thanks to Dawn, Neil & Lori and Don. Rumor has it that there was a step dancer in snow boots up on the floor rather briefly too.

All this was topped with hearty meal of chili, Caesar salad and homemade dinner rolls as rays of the setting sun streamed in the dining room windows.  What more could one ask for?  Thank you to all who came from near and far to make Family Day such a success.

Without belabouring our schedule of events, it has been said that there’s no shortage of events in the area that we can tag on to.  One such event would be the July 13^th Merrickville Car Show / Cruise and Shop.  This presents a nice tour to take in and thanks to Wendy and Phil, they will organize and steer us to Leeds & Grenville County.  Sounds like a great time for all to consider.  The President’s Mystery Tour will take place August 10^th.  Two dates, you should circle on your calendars for the ‘driving months’.  We discussed an early spring “Shake Down Tour” too for April or May. Please give some thought to planning a driving tour and speak up at the meeting.  We always look forward to new ideas.

Most members have renewed their memberships for 2014, at the cost of $ 35.00.   Bob has told us at the last meeting, that those who haven’t paid won’t be reading this in their Flying Quail, as he cuts off mailing after February.  It’s refreshing to report that honorary members Ellen and Brian Black dropped off their $35.00, insisting that it be a donation to the club.  Thank you so much! 

Our March 5th meeting will take place at the Algonquin College campus starting at 7:00 in room 200.  (There is an elevator to the second floor) The meeting will be brief to allow us to be escorted by Mark Stevens to view and be updated on the Motive Power Technician Program.  Thanks to Daniel Hewitt for initiating and planning this special evening.  Given the visit, there will be a light agenda and for this month, we will forego the auction sale.

Looking forward to seeing all of you on the 5^th of March.   Delores