Commodore’s comments about the Hurricane

Hey, enough is enough! If you haven’t seen the devastation that Hurricane Frances has inflicted upon our club you would find it hard to believe. We are including pictures in this edition taken soon after we were permitted to return to the property. What was really shocking was the condition of the interior after days of standing water up to 12 inches deep.

Your club manager, Nancy Ogonoski, and members of the Board of Directors have been on top of recovery efforts from the very first opportunity and already considerable progress has been made. We are aiming for a grand re-opening on November 1, 2004. if at all possible.

Let me tell you what we are facing in our restoration efforts. All plaster board walls will be removed, the studded supports thoroughly dried and treated for mold, new walls replaced and then walls papered. All carpets have been removed and the under floor will be dried and treated also. New carpeting will be installed. At this time we are deciding the fate of our tables (not chairs). We may have to replace them if refurbishing is not the answer. The dance floor was totally ruined and will be replaced. There was some damage to the bar and that will be addressed. The docks will be completely rebuilt as they suffered tremendous damage.

Now, what does this mean to all of us as club members, apart from the great inconveniences? Your Board has decided to waive the per person minimum now $40.00 a month (charged as $480 annually) for the months you are denied use of the club (hopefully September and October). Club quarterly dues will continue and we are not planning any assessments. Dockage fees will also be waived until the new dock is in place.

In addition to my Siren reports, periodic informational mailings will be sent to all members. Also, recordings will be updated periodically regarding our recovery progress, by calling our club number. Remember, the Vero Beach Country Club stands ready to honor our reciprocity through October.

Please be patient. We will be presenting you with a refurbished club shortly.