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Hello to all, I am sorry for the delay in this communication as I was out of town on a scheduled vacation last week and spent a good part of that week on the phone working with a potential buyer that was looking to still save the fall tour.  We were on a deadline for all involved, particularly you athletes, ESPN and the host centers, plus the sponsors.  ESPN was working with us to provide additional time and each time we reached our deadline, they extended it for us.  We were hopeful that the potential buyer would secure everything from his end in time, but it did not happen because two of the host venues could not wait any longer.  A personal note was to be sent to all members in addition to the press release about the cancellation of the fall tour, however the decision came so late in the day that in an effort to inform the athletes of the cancellation first, the press release was quickly forwarded to all members.  I thought an additional update had gone out, but in the confusion it was missed.

Cathy's letter outlined pretty much where we're at, you have a good president.  There are still at least three options.  One is the investment group out of Florida that we were working with last week.  They still want to proceed ahead in an attempt to purchase the tour.  The second is a Ladies and Legends tour.  There are a lot of details that would still need to be worked out to make sure it would be a quality choice for women's professional bowling.  As Cathy mentioned, there are a lot of rumors out there regarding the Ladies and Legends, and as of this moment, none that I heard are true or confirmed.  It is definitely an option, but in no way is it a done deal.  The third option is just to close the doors and see if someone (probably the PBA) picks it up and runs a women's tour.  There is also another investor that has expressed interest that is still an outside chance.  Whichever way it goes, I believe there will be a significant professional women's bowling tour.

The WIBC would like nothing more than to take the tour, however at this time with their future in question they don't feel they can't do the tour and you athletes justice.

There are timelines on some things already in place and a decision regarding the future of the tour moving into 2004 needs to happen by September 1st.  I will make sure an e-mail goes out to you all by September 2nd with an update on the future.

I have accepted a position with WIBC.  It's Director of Tournaments and Marketing.  If there is a tour, it is likely that I will be involved on a sponsorship end from my WIBC position.  I'll be in the office this week and at home most of next week, starting with WIBC on September 3rd.  (phone numbers removed) It is with great sadness that I leave the PWBA.  It's where my heart has always been.  However, I, like all of you, have to look out for myself at this point in time considering that most of the staff has been laid off.  I'm excited about my new position and I'm sure I'll get to see most of you in my new capacity.  I will continue to promote a women's tour and you athletes at every opportunity because you are the best ambassadors for this sport and wonderful people.  I'll miss you all and thank those of you that lent your support over the years.  I hope we won't lose touch.

Best of luck to everyone.  Keep the faith.   Jan

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