Date:   December 15th, 2009

To:       Zop’s Cooks, Volunteers, Sponsors and Guests

From:  Kelly Jay

Re:      Zop’s Wild Game Feast

 

Thanks to all that were a part of Zop’s for the past ten years.  It took a lot of work, dedication and vision to be hosts to the Biggest and Best Super bowl
party in the State of Texas.  You should also feel proud of the fact that you were able to raise money for a great cause, The Ben Richey Boys Ranch.

 

That’s why it saddens me to have to report to everyone that there will not be a Zop’s Wild Game Feast in 2010 on Super Bowl Sunday.  Due to unforeseen
circumstances, the 2010 Party has been canceled.

 

As you may or may not know, Zop’s 2009 lost money.  I would like to thank the members that sent in money to cover the debt.  The request to help out last
year was totally voluntary and it’s nice to know there are people that feel responsible enough to help.    

 

I would like to take this time to tell everyone how much I enjoyed being elected President and serving on your behalf.  I was getting ready for work this morning
and realized that Zop’s started when my son, Kasey, was just six years old and next year he will be a senior.  I know this would have to relate to your family
as well.  For we have seen many of our kids grow up and many of our kids and grandkids being born.  We all shared a bond that instilled friendship, trust
and admiration for each others abilities to get a very difficult job done. 

 

I would like to thank the Zop’s Board for their many years of service.  Each year as we would embark on new ideas and methods to achieve our goals,
everyone stood strong and united to achieve success. 

 

Of course, thanks to the Zop’s Cooks and Zopateers, for without you, the party would have never been a success.  Each year as we added new events,
such as a cook-off, concerts, card games, auction items and more….I was always amazed with the amount support, work and commitment that you gave.            

 

I would also like to thank the sponsors for believing in the Zop’s plan.  We always tried to provide sponsors with advertising, tickets and a great party they
would be proud to bring their clients and friends to.  Many thanks to Gary and G.W. Ashwander for allowing us to have the Zop’s meetings at Harlow's, we
weren’t known to be the quietest group around.  Thanks to Guitars and Cadillac’s for the follow up meeting place after Harlow's sold.

 

In closing, thanks to all the FRIENDS:

The old FRIENDS that formed and had a commitment of ownership to Zop’s; 

New FRIENDS that we made along the way;

FRIENDS that attended Zop’s each year;

FRIENDS that bid on auction items, just to help the Boys;

FRIENDS that became a family for many years to come.

 

 

I learned a lot about friendship, leadership and how to be a better person from everyone during the past ten years in Zop’s.  Thanks again for sharing
yourself and knowledge with me.  Have a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

 

God Bless,

 

Kelly Jay 

You may still send e-mails to zopsabilene@yahoo.com