January 12, 2010
President Marsha Putnam called meeting to order at 6:45 P.M. at the Brown residence.
Directors present: Marsha Putnam, Sue Chant, Pat Brown, Barb Drake, Connie Frey, Gale Moore, Val Lau, Gary Fortin, and Mike Wood.
Directors absent: Lonnie Buck, Jackie Fisher, Mary Mallory, and Janet Phillips.
Members present: Dave Richmond, Diane and Myron Karsten, Carrie Barr and Chanda Donnan
Marsha presented the agenda which was accepted by all.
Marsha presented the President’s report.
Marsha updated the Board on boat road developments including a February 2nd pre-construction meeting and final project goal determination by May 31st. Using the old roadbed as a multi-use trail remains in the plans, awaiting internal DNR approval.
Marsha reported that the 2x6 gator we use to move gravel has become non-operable. The remaining gators are not allowed to haul gravel and are unlikely to be available to move work bee crews and tools.The Board held a round table discussion of options for replacing the gator and for moving gravel, materials, personnel and tools out to trail worksites. The topic was tabled and will be picked up under old business at a future meeting.
Marsha reported that our event camp overs were considered successful by Tim. We are approved to have camp overs in 2010 for all work and fund raising events.
Marsha has secured entertainment for the annual banquet and auction. Dan Campbell and Rex B Attestilli will perform cowboy music after completion of the auction.
Marsha updated the Board on the Mi-Mustengo ride being planned by Tina Aguirre. The event is featured on the American Competitive Trail Horse Association website (http://www.actha.us). ACTHA is a regular sponsor on RFD TV. Although the event is not associated with the Sleepy Hollow Trail Riders Association, the Board recognizes the ambitious undertaking represented by this two day nationally advertise event. Marsha has regular communications with ride sponsor Tina Aguirre and will report on her progress and need for assistance.
The December meeting minutes were reviewed.
Upon a motion by Val Lau, as supported by Gale Moore the minutes of the December 8, 2009 meeting were unanimously approved.
Pat Brown presented the Treasurer’s report. Receipts since the last meeting totaled $435.00. Expenses totaled $ 80.00. The ending balance in the checking ended at $10,317.08. Pat reported that one of our two certificates of deposit will mature on January 17th. Pat addressed question from the Board over options and the projected data that funds from the CD would be needed for trail expansion. The consensus was to renew the CD for a twelve-month term. Upon a motion by Sue Chant, supported by Gale Moore, the Treasurer’s report was unanimously approved.
Marsha discussed a premium for honorary members Wayne, Agnes and Leon. She proposed a paid subscription to Saddle-Up Magazine. Upon a motion by Sue Chant, as supported by Val Lau, it was unanimously resolved to provide a paid subscription to Saddle-Up Magazine to Wayne, Agnes and Leon at a cost of $10 annual for each.
Marsha reviewed for the Board all of the publications and sites that make club information and membership forms
available to the public including:
Equine Times
Saddle Up
Expo
SHTRA.org
Various Merchants – i.e., Tom’s Western Store
Marsha covered event developments. Sandy Bayshore has confirmed that she will host a spooky day and ride on the Sunday following Ichabod Crane Day. Marsha reviewed the full calendar and with Board input filled in work bee dates and camp overs.
The Board discussed updating the SHTRA apparel line. The growing sophistication, diversity and worldliness of our membership screams out for club apparel commensurate with our rise in status within the equestrian community. Style and functionality needs to be incorporated along with the club’s longstanding commitment to durability. A number of Board members agreed to participate in the make-over of our apparel line under the guidance of equestrian industry apparel insider, Barb Drake.
While the apparel makeover will take time, the Board discussed the immediate need for a signature item for sale at the upcoming Horse Expo. Pat Brown modeled a logo bandana capable of both serving as an attractive accessory as well as a functional part of a trail rider’s ensemble. Recognizing that the logo patch was “so 2009” Pat proposed an immediate bandana order so SHTRA bandanas of various colors will excite expo goers over coming revisions to our summer and fall lines.
Upon a motion by Connie Frey, as supported by Pat Brown, it was unanimously resolved to purchase 75 custom logo bandanas at a cost of $3.16 each.
The Board discussed the value proposition supporting association membership. The Board and its membership chair recognized the need to address member benefits, which range from communications advocacy through a full spectrum of equestrian social networking opportunities. It was noted that some visible symbols of participation are needed to solidify member’s commitment to the association and its unique partnership with the Department of Natural Resources.
Gary Fortin updated the Board on Plow Day planning and the evolution of the one of a kind draft horse program we sponsor. An exciting development under study will be an opportunity for members and the public to become a teamster. Under the direction of an experienced teamster and using a well schooled team, the public would be given the opportunity to take the reins and experience the thrill of using these amazingly powerful equine partners to relive the historical role that a team and its teamster played in the development of this great nation.
As will all aspects of the draft horse program, Gary reported the need for member support with planning and manpower during the 2010 season.
Marsha reminded the Board of the election process to be held at the annual meeting. She reviewed members up for re-election and was pleased to confirm the impressive slate of new board members that will be presented to the membership on February 6th. Marsha reflected on the days when a few core Board members were holding the Association together on a limited budget using only their collective will and determination.
Upon a motion by Sue Chant, as supported by Connie Frey, the meeting was unanimously adjourned at 9:15.
Respectfully Submitted,
Michael A. Wood
Secretary
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