The meeting was called to order by President George Powell at 7:00pm in the South Fork Community Building.

George welcomed everyone, 32 club members present, 1 guest.

George asked if everyone had read the January 11 club minutes. A motion was made and seconded to accept the minutes, motion carried.

President’s Report: New blades were purchased for the chain saw. The club’s donation was delivered to Art Marcilla’s widow, and was very much appreciated. George responded to Search and Rescue’s request to assist in the recovery of Walter Martinez’s body. He and Philip took the snow cat to the area, but were turned back as the body had already been recovered. The club will respond to future requests if asked. Yesterday there was an avalanche at Snow Mesa but no one was injured. South Fork, Creede and Lake City areas have been placed on high avalanche alert.

Grooming Report: George has groomed 110 hours so far this season, with 87 hours left before April 15. Due to lessened snow fall, rocks are visible on the trail at Aqua Ramon and Alder Creek Rd. Blow Out Pass and Poole Table are still in good shape. There continue to be club snowmobile rides every Saturday. There are lots of out-of-town snow mobiles in our area. Last Saturday the Powder Buster Club provided hot dogs and State Parks were checking snow mobile stickers.

Sled Races: Joe announced the 2^nd Annual Olympic races will be held at Camp Molina Friday, 9:AM. Snow mobile riders will ferry in those who wish to participate but have no machines.

Snow Shoe Report: Doug reports visitors from Oklahoma and Missouri joined the group for the last shoe. Lunch was provided by Eve and Ozzie Wells. A great time was had by all.

Social Report: Harolena thanked the Powers’ for hosting last month’s meeting as she and George were in Texas. The club will host the April Community Pot Luck.

Fund Raising: Barbara had Silverthreader items for sale. The committee has met and is working on several events, including a July 12 Potato Bake and Silent Auction. A quilt will be raffled, and Le will handle obtaining the required license. Barbara needs pictures of our community service efforts, and George says he has plenty.

Old Business: The Health Fair at Del Norte will be held again this year on March 24. Barbara and Lloyd will head up this activity.

New Business: The motion as made and accepted for the club to fund one year of satellite phone service ($360.00) for one of two phones for Search and Rescue who at present have no means of communication in the mountains. Donations were solicited for this activity, and club members responded as always.

George and Harolena will be setting up a calendar of camp outs, cook outs, etc.

Philip will contact Bill Boyle, new Masonic Park Superintendent, about using the pavilion for club meetings May-September.

Dick suggests avalanche beacons for winter activity enthusiasts. He says if you ride in risky areas, you need one. If you stay on groomed trails you are basically safe.

O.V presented information on AARP’s Driver Safety Course March 8-9. Members were encouraged to sign up. The fee is $10.00 and includes lunch. The course is from 8-noon and is for those 50 years and up.

Betty informed everyone of the American Cancer Society’s daffodil sale at the Visitor’s Center March 20-21. Bunches are $10.00 each.

Bowling: Elizabeth reminds everyone to come and bowl in Monte Vista each Wednesday, 1-3 PM.

50/50 Drawing: Tommy won and donated her half back to the club.

Motion was made and seconded to adjourn at 7:55pm, motion carried.

Respectfully submitted,

Sally Towns