The Christmas season is upon us and things have been relatively quiet around the Club as far as flying goes. We are experiencing unusually snowy and cold weather and that tends to put a damper on our flying opportunities. However, the traditional Saturday morning breakfasts and the Sunday fly-outs are still attracting members who are willing to brave all types of weather and road conditions to uphold the social traditions.

The unusually snowy weather has given our scheduled Christmas events a bit of a challenge. The Christmas TGIF had to be postponed by one week, to Friday, December 16th. All are encouraged to join in as this is always a popular and well-attended event. The heavy snowfall late last week gave the children’s Christmas party on Saturday (the 10th) a festive feel, perfect for the arrival of that jolly red elf, Santa Claus. He was well received by the over 40 people who attended this event. It was a joint effort pot luck event and all the contributions made meant that nobody went hungry. There was some seriously amazing balloon art produced by a visiting clown and it was big hit with the kids. Our thanks go out to Ruth who, with the assistance of many other members and their families, with special mention going out to Deryn, Murray and, Leanne and all those who came out and shovelled snow to make the Club accessible.

The new year marks Canada’s 150th birthday and we can expect that there will be many celebrations, both nationally and locally. Perhaps our Club could host a fly-out to Ottawa for any who may be so inclined. Members are encouraged to come forward with any ideas and suggestions for events the Club could consider to celebrate Canada’s birthday – all suggestions gratefully received and considered.

As the year draws to a close, we are looking forward to 2017. I anticipate the movement to replace HXT will take off early in the New Year and that project will require our attention. I look forward to getting to know some of our newer members and encouraging their participation in the many aspects of the Club – for example, the Sunday morning fly-out. And I would hope that some of our new members will accept this as an invitation to join one of the committees that will be organized in the coming months.

Please accept my best wishes to all members and their families for a safe and happy holiday season and a happy, healthy and prosperous New Year.