KCA ‘finding way back’ from COVID

KINBURN – The mood was upbeat when the Kinburn Community Association (KCA) board met last week (Nov. 3) for their annual general meeting.  

KCA President Sandra Gray thanked attendees for their hard work and support of KCA programs and operations.

“Things are getting more positive as life is coming back after COVID,” Gray said. “It’s great to see so many cars in the parking lot.”

Board members reported popular programs such as; senior euchre, pickle ball, 55+ fitness and carpet bowling are picking up steam and returning to pre-COVID enrollment. Hall rentals are also on the rise with a variety of events, all well received by attendees.

“I certainly had sore feet after the recent Dealmakers’ music night,” Gray said. “It really feels like it’s getting back to normal. Comedy night returns again this year (Nov. 17), as well as the Craft Fair (Nov. 4), and Brunch with Santa (Dec. 3).”

“We are finding our way back from COVID,” KCA treasurer Karen Matt said. “This year a small profit has been realized. All in all, our current assets are in pretty good shape.”

As with other community organizations, the city reviews the KCA financial records as of their Sept. 30 year end. 

In her president’s message, Gray recognized the dedication of volunteers and the support from the community.

“Special thanks to Coun. Clarke Kelly, Bruce Riley (hall maintenance), board members, and City of Ottawa staff who are quick to respond to all questions and requests,” Gray said. “Also to Scott Barton who does amazing work keeping up the grounds, we could not do it without him. I think the world of these people.”

The past year also saw the installation of a mural on the west wall of the community centre as well as a new paint job on the inside of the rink. The kitchen also received an upgrade as the city provided for a new entranceway.

“It’s a direct route from the parking lot and really helpful so we don’t have to tramp through the building to get to the kitchen,” Matt said.

Everyone acknowledged it was a struggle to maintain the ice surface last season but it wasn’t for lack of trying. The weather just never co-operated.

“We will do our best again this year and will soon be asking for contractors to submit sealed bids for rink maintenance contracts,” Matt said. “The contract packages will be available shortly.”

As 2023 winds down, the board is already planning for next year.  Some new initiatives include; replacing the large roadside billboard sign which was used to advertise upcoming programs, addressing building acoustics and updating KCA’s Ontario Corporations Act (ONCA) paperwork.

Elections were moderated by Kinburn Seniors Association President Judith Waddell. Board positions are for a two-year term which will expire at the end of Sept. 2024 for current Board members. All agreed to stay on for the 2023-2024 fiscal year except Angela Bunge (KCA social director) who in stepping down was thanked for her contributions. Gerda Novakoskic an avid participant in the pickle ball and carpet bowling programs was welcomed as the newest Board member for 2023-2024.

The KCA is always ready to welcome volunteers and invites anyone who may be interested in joining the Board to contact them. They look forward to bringing new faces onto the Board and/or into a leading role in one of their many programs.

For further information see www.kinburn.ca.