I know it is a little late to be calling this the December issue but since we now publish the newsletter every other month this will help me get it on an even schedule for 2004. The next issue will be the January-February one which will be published at the end of February and will contain information about the March general membership meeting. The original idea was for the newsletter to be mailed the last week of the month before the general membership meeting—whew did you catch all that? So I am a little late for that. The holidays put us all a little behind schedule.

The New Year’s Day Feast and Paddle was wonderful as usual. It was really better than usual because it didn’t rain or snow! The weather was glorious. Even though several of us didn’t actually paddle, it was a great day and a great time. One of the special things we did was to celebrate Hulin’s 80th birthday. Yes he is the big eight-o!! Hard to believe isn’t it?

Thanks to Mimi, we have roll sessions scheduled again for the next 3 months. They will be at Franco’s in Mandeville. The first one will be Saturday, January 24. Check the calendar for more dates and time.

I think this starts my 4th year as newsletter editor. I want to thank to all of you for your support and great information and ideas to include in the newsletter and website. I only put it together, the stories and photographs come from you.

Don’t forget to check your membership expiration dates. They are listed on the website in the section called “Membership Expiration Dates” (duh!) It was last updated in September but if you joined after that your membership won’t expire anytime soon.

-Pat

Pics From New Year's Day Paddle by Marilyn Kircus

Hulin with his granddaughter Renee and his birthday cakes.

Bill Evans—we couldn’t drive up to the water this year so carts came in handy.

Ann, Hulin, Renee, Lisa and Jed.

Bill Hager—showing his camping wine glasses and wine the club gave him as a “going away” present.

Bayou Haystackers just hanging out and enjoying the company and food.

Haystackers on the water.

THE FINAL STROKE
The Final Presidential Strokes
December 2004

2004, where did 2003 go? Time sure flies by when you are having fun. As everyone should know we have a new President and some new board members. MS Ann Hager is the new President and I happen to know her quite well. GOOD LUCK!

I would like to take this time to thank everyone for their help and support for the last two years. We must always remember that this club is an all volunteer group. Everyone that leads trips, puts the membership meeting together, helps in the education of the club members, puts together our wonderful newsletter, keeps track of the club finances, membership, helps with the socials, and all the members that support the club, ALL donate their time to make the Bayou Haystackers the best paddling Club in the Deep South. I am very proud of being part of such a wonderful group of people and was truly honored to be President of the club.

The club has a great direction for 2004 with a years worth of trips, training, and outings. For those of you that have a dirty old canoe/kayak in the yard, clean it up and come and play with us. If you have not been on a trip with us you are missing a great time. Our trip leaders are great and will support you in every way possible. Yes, we love to paddle but you must also remember we also love to have a good time. Most of our outings turn out to be wonderful socials that everyone will enjoy.

In closing THANK YOU for all of your support and remember PADDLE! PADDLE!! PADDLE!!!
Bill