December 5, 2023

Paradise Bay Sarasota Bay Boating and Fishing Club Meeting Notes

President: Ron Prieskorn

Vice President: Chris Matteson

Treasurer: Kevin Sullivan

Secretary: George Mullen

President Ron Prieskorn started the meeting at 9am with the pledge of

Allegiance and the Fisherman’s Prayer. There were approximately 66 members in attendance.

Ron asked to approve November 7th  2023 meetings minutes that were printed on tables for the membership review, a motion to accept was made by Jim Elias  and 2nd  by Ricky Baer.

Chris Matteson spoke about several topics, Chris explained how the different chairs of the club really make the club function smoothly. He also asked others to consider stepping up for chair positions as well as being future board members in training. Chris talked about the frank and bean dinner and the importance of selling tickets to support the club. He thanked all volunteers that make the dinner a great success.

Ricky Baer talked next about the safety classes and the importance of this class. Ricky then reviewed the upcoming Coast Guard boat inspections and the need to check your expiration dates on safety equipment such as fire extinguishers. Both of these events will be scheduled soon.

Dan Wilder talked about the 2nd season for the club’s boating trips. These fun trips to such places as Woody’s River Roo, Gilligan’s Island, Bean Point, Egmont Key and Marina Jacks are just a few of last year’s destinations. Dan reminded everyone you don’t have to have a boat; our club members are happy to take you along. Sign up sheets for trips will be available at our next meeting.

Kevin Sullivan reviewed the club’s efforts to get a bayfront kayak launch and transport trailer. Kevin said we are in a sweet spot to get these projects moving forward.

Kevin then asked for member approval for $1000.00 of club funds toward the Kayak trailer. A motion was made to donate $1000.00 by Ricky Baer and 2nd by John Hopkins. Motion was passed.

Gary Plum spoke about the infrastructure meeting at the Helms house this Thursday the 7th at 9am. Gary Plum said it would help the kayak launch the project move forward if a large number of kayakers attended the meeting and express the need and benefits to the park for this project.

Kevin gave an apparel update on shirts and hats, He then asked for a motion to approve $500.00 for a hat order. Motion was made by John Hopkins and was 2nd by Tom Billings.

Kevin then reviewed the treasure report that was printed and distributed on all the tables. He asked if there were any questions and there were none.

Ron reviewed a few more details about the kayak launch and trailer efforts to the club members.

Scotty Yates spoke about several slip and boat storage issues. Reminding everyone to take all hoses and dock lines when they remove their boat from the slip. To keep your trailer in good condition so it can be easily moved when the need arises, like the hurricane we had this summer. No blocking wheels, tongue jacks in good condition and tires inflated. He said there may be some ongoing repairs needed for the docks because of the salt water damage from the hurricane. Also please obey the stop signs installed this summer, they are for everyone’s safety and help with traffic at the boat launch.

Ron reviewed the new fish contest rules that are posted on Team Reach and Paradise Bay Info. The new rules include winners must be present to collect prize money. Prize money will only be available for two meeting.

Ricky Baer did the auction again to the joy of all attendees. He auctioned off a couple club shirts and several other boating items including lower unit Quick Silver gear case oil.

The 50/50 Drawing Winner was Chris Smith for $53.00

Meeting was adjured by Ron Prieskorn at 9:59am

Respectfully Submitted

Secretary George Mullen