Canadian Pacific Lawn Bowling Club

I wanted to take this opportunity to address the membership. We have had a very successful season and as we wind down I thought it would be appropriate to take a moment to congratulate everyone on such a great job this year. As many of you are aware, the Executive has undergone a few changes for the 2010/2011 season. As Past President, we are saying goodbye to Ray Turner as his role on the Executive has reached its end. Ray has served this club for so many years that I, for one, would welcome him to any of our planning or Executive meetings with open arms. Thank you, Ray, for everything you have done. With Ray moving on, this means Kris Constable now sits in the Past President’s role. Kris joined this club during its darkest hour, and with the help of several individuals, was able to successfully negotiate a 15-year lease. Kris took pride in his role as President, resulting in a significant boost in membership, several successful open houses, increased use of the clubhouse, and a higher profile of the club within the local community and beyond. I am extremely grateful for all of the hard work and fun Kris has brought to the club. A the now acting Past President, I am sure his involvement will continue to bring attention and interest in our club. Thank you so much, Kris, for everything.

I want to talk about service and passion for a moment. I joined the Executive and the club because of my relationship with Kris. Kris showed a passion for saving this club, and spent time working with everyone to make that a reality. I bought into that passion and I continue to serve because of that. I am not an avid bowler–don’t get me wrong, I love the game–but I am not able to attend many of the draws. What I can do is serve our membership with my energy, enthusiasm, and commitment to community. Our club is an amazing example of green space in a city setting; I am proud to be involved and am looking forward to a fantastic 2010/2011 season.

I would like us to focus this coming season on utilization. How can we as a club bring more people to the green and our lovely space? The process is started, we just need to fine-tune our methods. Our club offers a fun recreational venue, but it also offers community. Whether you are a lawn bowler, a croquet player or a casual member, you are all welcome. This sense of community needs to be celebrated and acknowledged. By bringing this passion and service, we will continue to grow our community and attract more members to our club.

Thank you to everyone who stayed involved for the upcoming season, and for all of your hard work in 2009/2010. For those not involved last year, please consider coming out and supporting your club. We need your energy, passion, and commitment to cultivating a vibrant community. Sincerely, Nils Skalin.

Victoria’s Canadian Pacific Lawn Bowling club has signed a long-term lease with the city that will allow it to remain at its Belleville Street site another 15 years.

The club signed the lease this week, after more than a year of negotiations.

“It’s been a long, uphill battle but now we’re smooth sailing on the way down,” club president Kris Constable said yesterday.

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