NEWSLINE STORY

published January – February 2017

Introduction: Newly Elected 1^st Vice President – Gary Roberts

by Gary B. Roberts, 1^st Vice President, By-Laws, Rules and Grievance Director

As of January 1, 2017, I will officially be the new 1st Vice President of the NHPA. It is an honor and a privilege to serve the membership in this capacity. I will make every effort to not disappoint those who elected me to this position. I will always be responsive and accessible to the membership.

Following Dan Sanders into this role is a challenge. Dan’s knowledge and dedication would be very difficult to replace. Dan has graciously offered to assist me in any way during the transition and beyond. Other Council members have also offered their assistance.  I very much appreciate this willingness to help.

The sport of horseshoe pitching faces many challenges as we move forward. Obviously, the declining membership is the most glaring problem. This decline contributes to financial difficulties. Nobody has all of the answers to immediately recover from this decline in membership. However, we must look at innovative ways to recruit and maintain members. Your ideas and recommendations are very much encouraged.

Kevin Lewis and I are planning to travel to South Africa in March. Our primary goals are: to invite both South Africa and Namibia to send representatives to attend the 2017 World Tournament in St. George, Utah; to promote horseshoe pitching; and to participate in the Jukskei Championships in Kroonstad, South Africa. I am still trying to recruit others to join us. I want to make it clear that the NHPA is not providing any financial support for this trip. All participants must pay their own expenses.

I look forward to contributing to the success of the NHPA. Members can feel free to contact me on my cell phone at 740-835-1925. I would like to wish everyone a joyous Christmas and a prosperous New Year.