The Blaine Lake Community Association held its annual general meeting April 5.
The Blaine Lake Community Association Inc. reported that for the statement period ending January 31, 2011, the organization incurred a net loss of $7,175.39. The BLCA balance sheet as of January 31, 2011 recorded the total liabilities and members' equity at $49,141.30. The Blaine Lake Community Fundraising Organization incurred a net surplus of $7, 938.81. The BLCFR balance sheet as of December 31, 2010 recorded total liabilities and members' equity at $73,250.34. Looking at the operational costs of the facilities it is clear to see why so many rural communities are struggling to keep their facilities open and operable.
Committee reports were presented followed by the president's report. The 2010 Remembrance Day service marked the 62nd consecutive community service held in Blaine Lake since the end of WW II. Approximately 90 people attended to pay tribute to and honour the fallen soldiers.
The curling rink report was presented and indicated that the season began in the latter part of November and, with nine teams between the competitive and regular league curling, it was decided that all teams would curl on Monday evening. The rink hosted a curling fun night Fridays in February. A curling clinic was held for students Grades 5 to 7, facilitated by Carol Ferris. It was a fun way to introduce students into the sport of curling. This resulted in three student teams participating in the Division playoffs in Waldheim. Three major bonspiels were held, Wayne Horner Memorial, Grandma & Grandpa Spiel and the Farmers' Spiel. The concession was operated by Barb and Bert Dyck and caretaker of the curling rink was Don Sorenson. There were no major repairs or improvements made to the curling rink this year.
It was later in the season before the skating rink had ice but the facility was utilized until the end of March. The Blaine Lake Bombers Pre-Novice hockey teams drew the crowds this season. The team was coached by Brett MacDermott and Moe Norsten and managed by Tirzah Naharney. The Blaine Lake Skate Club/Power Skating had 24 participants for the season. The club was coached by Chris Dargin-Linsley. The Blaine Lake Imperials Senior hockey team split games between Hafford and Blaine Lake. The Blaine Lake Jacks recreational team had many home games and a long enjoyable season.
The multipurpose facility made only one purchase for the 2010 year. A butt stop ashtray was set up for the smokers at various events. A series of events took place in the facility such as a community potluck supper, farmers' spiel banquet, trade fair and a wedding banquet and dance.
Blaine Lake Sports Day held quad mug bog races so a mud pit was dug. In conjunction with sports day there was also a one day slo-pitch tournament, children's activities and a car show.
The golf course once again continues to lack volunteers to mow grass, weed the greens and assist with maintenance. The flags and markers went out May 16, 2010 with a few new flags and markers replacing the ones lost in a fire the previous year. Sand was hauled in and a new roller was purchased. Lorne was commended and acknowledged for his volunteer efforts.
Mike Linsley presented the chairman's report as an active year and also mentioned the installation of low-e foil and light project in the curling rink which has made a huge improvement in the lighting of the facility. The cost savings for the year is yet to be determined.
The election of directors was held with 23 individuals nominated. The 13 that accepted the nomination were Karen Fiala, John Serhienko, Marj Pool, Jim Joanette, Wendy Onishenko, Sharon Gauthier, Chris Rendell, Angela Johnson, Dale Horner, Larry Androsoff, Bert Dyck, Nicole Gagnon, and Bob Wilson, who will join the directors with a one-year term remaining, being Glen Bowie, Chris Dargin-Linsley, Scott Larsen, Mike Linsley, Amanda Minten, Lorne Popov, John Redlich and Denise Timm.
A BLCA organizational meeting followed the AGM resulting in the election of officers. Jim Joannette was voted as Chair, Mike Linsley as first vice- chair and Dale Horner as second vice-chair. Regular BLCA meetings are held the first Wednesday of every month.
