The question of whether Sturgis North will be returning to Salmon Arm in 2012 should be answered in September.
CEO Ray Sasseville and vice-president Joan Hansen told the Observer a decision would be made after the company’s board meeting on Aug. 15; however, this has been delayed.
“We are hoping to announce our location by the first of September! We have had many requests for tickets so we are trying to make those plans ASAP,” wrote Hansen in an e-mail to the Observer.
Whatever happens with Sturgis North in the coming year, it will not take place with any involvement from Steve Hammer, this year’s site manager and local liaison. Hammer was the only person from Salmon Arm involved with the Sturgis North organization, which is a for-profit business based out of the Lower Mainland.
Hammer finished his contract with the group Aug. 18.
“I was proud to have been a part of the inaugural event, but at the completion of my contract I have advised the owners I wouldn’t work with them again. I was told via text message that I am no longer a part of their organization.”
He went on to say, “I think this was one of the best events Salmon Arm has seen. I do not apologize for bringing Sturgis North into Salmon Arm and hopefully something like Sturgis North can continue in Salmon Arm, maybe under another name or organization.”
Hammer added he has not received the attendance numbers or financial information that was promised to him by the end of his contract. Hammer was to be paid a percentage of the profits, but he does not believe he will be receiving any compensation.
“My reward will be the life experience and education.”
Sasseville confirmed the disassociation of Hammer and Sturgis North in an e-mail to the Observer.
“Please note that Steve Hammer is in no way affiliated with or speaks on behalf of Sturgis North,” he wrote.
Hansen says attendance numbers for the event, which was held July 13-17, will be forthcoming.
“The attendance final is still being looked into as we had several other outlets who sold tickets and numbers are still being compiled, as well we are still finalizing our accounting. We will have those numbers somewhere between Sept. 1 and 15, according to our accountant.”
The amount of money raised for charities from the event should also be finalized by mid-September. The Sturgis North organization has 60 days from the end of the event to provide full financial disclosure to the Fraser Valley Thunder Rally Society, who raised money for the Canadian Cancer Society and the BC Children’s Hospital by selling T-shirts, pins and 50/50 tickets at Sturgis North.
