December 10th 2024
Paradise Bay Sarasota Bay Boating & Fishing Club Meeting Minutes
President: Ron Prieskorn
Vice President: John Hopkins
Treasurer: Kevin Sullivan
Secretary: George Mullen
The meeting was called to order at 9:00am by President, Ron Prieskorn. There were 43 members present.
Ron led the club in the Pledge of Allegiance and recited a Fisherman's Prayer.
Ron then asked for a motion to accept the minutes from the November 5, 2024 meeting. A motion was made by Chris Matteson and seconded by Jim Gath. The motion carried.
Ron explained the boat club would be hosting the Easter Dinner. Chris Matteson is the chair for this year's event, which will be held at Sara Bay Hall. As in the past, the Boating and Fishing club will provide ham, and attendees will bring a side dish to pass.
Scotty Yates gave the dockmaster’s report, He thanked the volunteers that installed the docks and assisted with hurricane repairs throughout the park, Scotty noted that dock bills have not been mailed out yet but can be paid in person at the office. New dock fees are $600 plus tax for park slips and $400 plus tax for private slips. Scotty also announced a volunteer day to help clean up the waterfront, date to be determined soon.
Chris Smith gave an update on the installation of the boat slips. He explained that the bridges would be installed next by park volunteers. Once installed the bridges will need to be pressure washed. Chris thanked all the volunteers involved in the work.
John Hopkins gave a report about the Bean and Frank dinner. He explained that the location would be Sara Bay Hall, with the possibility of cooking outside. Tickets will be sold for $8.00 each or 2 for $15.00, the same as last year.
Jim Ellias expressed his enthusiasm for hosting the boating excursions this year. He discussed the possibility of scheduling a trip before January if the docks were ready. Members are encouraged to check Team Reach and the Paradise Bay info page for updates.
Jim also suggested inviting non-boaters so everyone in the park can enjoy the water.
Kevin Sullivan presented the treasurer’s report, He reviewed several expenses and provided current bank account details. Kevin mentioned that Kathy Sparks is working on artwork for the club, which could be used for shirt designs or other purposes. Kathy is generously donating her artwork to our club.
Additionally, Kevin presented 2 personalized Tervis mugs to Ricky Baer and Kim Hopkins in recognition for their ongoing support for the Boating and Fishing Club.
Sheila Gilstrap provided the fishing report, sharing updates on various fish species. She recommended using the Fish app to stay informed about fishing regulations and updates.
Ron announced that the one day fish contest for December is canceled but is expected to resume in January. Ron also thanked Stan Hellibrand for his work on the fish cleaning stations and other contributions to the waterfront.
Ron then told a great story about his recent fishing trip during which his wife, Sue, caught a large Cobia. He invited members to share their own stories.
Kevin Sullivan followed with a story about spotting a large whale shark which was surrounded by a large number of Cobia while out in the gulf with two other park members. Both stories were full of exciting and fun details.
We then had our 50/50 drawing which was won by Mike Tucker who graciously donated it back to the club. Thanks Mike!
Meeting was Adjourned by Ron Prieskorn at 9:45am
Respectfully Submitted by George Mullen