By now, most leagues have completed the first third of their schedule, at which point the prize fund should have been adopted well over a month ago, the Audit Committee reviewed the league finances at least once (if not twice), and league presidents are staying on top of things (as I noted in my previous column).
It’s time to shift our focus to something very near and dear to this association, and that is BVL (Bowlers to Veterans Link), the only national sports organization dedicated to providing programs to our wounded and disabled veterans. BVL helps provide recreational equipment as well as arts and crafts materials for those who have served our country and fought for the freedoms that we enjoy each and every day. BVL also supports the nationally recognized entertainment troupe “Re-Creation,” which visits hundreds of hospitals every year. I have personally enjoyed performances of “Re-Creation” at the USBC Convention, so I can’t begin to imagine the effect they have on our veterans. These are just two examples of how BVL funds are used.
Over the years, the Nation’s Capital Area USBC has been the top contributor amongst local associations in the country. Although we have fallen short of that top spot the last couple of years, we are always appreciative of the donations we receive from our membership to serve those who have served us.
So how can you help? In the near future, your lane representatives will make visits to your center for donations to BVL for you to make individual donations. Your league can make a donation from a special collection or special events proceeds, so talk to your league president and secretary and offer to coordinate the endeavor. You can also solicit pledges for BVL through either a flat fee or based on an amount per pin using a series bowled in your league; we will be happy to send you a pledge sheet.
If one of your center’s lane representatives has not visited your league, please contact the association office so we can make sure someone gets out to see you.
Feel free to contact me with any questions or comments. May you strike out often and be spared of any splits.