February 2008 Minutes

VOTED to accept January minutes as posted.

Checking Account: $10,520.58/ Savings: $1,073.29/ CD: $3,244.80

Noted that several major fees are coming due, such as liability insurance, Green Hill fees, donations, etc. This explains the large fluctuations in the balance each month.

Received very positive comments on the programs. Rebecca extended special thanks to Board Members and Volunteers who assisted. The tack sale had 31 vendors this year and was masterfully handled by Judy Stanley and her group. The demonstrations were outstanding and the speakers attracted many seeking the latest updates on the various topics presented.

Now soliciting topics for 2009!

The dates for camp for 2008 are October 10-12 to be held at Stone Bridge Farm.

Liz Steacie will be returning as an instructor. The second instructor is not yet confirmed.

The budget for Camp will be approximately $13,000/$14,000. Grants are being applied for. The VADA Chapter Grant might be a source also.

Estimated Camp fee per person: $675.

Donations are being solicited.

Need to make a decision re: use of VADA Chapter Grant.

Discussed using the same clinician for several clinics in order to provide an opportunity for continuing instruction and feedback.

The clinics will be held at Chimney Hill Farm on June 21 and August 16. Harriet Peterson will be the clinician.

Discussed various possibilities of enrolling. To be decided at next meeting.

Will try to meet in March. Review and update Show Manager's Guide Book.

Excellent attendance despite the weather delay. The Salem Civic Center staff was very helpful and cooperative in the rescheduling. Blanche extended thanks to those who helped with the banquet. Once again, the silent auction was very successful and a good time was had by all!

Katherine Graman volunteered to serve as Hospitality Chairperson for the coming year.

Members are urged to send in dues in order to be included in the Omnibus. To date: 75 members.

Awaiting copy to proof read. Will probably be mailed in early March.

Reminder to managers of shows, events to send volunteer lists to Robin.

Extra ribbons and rosettes have been ordered and additional ribbons will be ordered as needed.

Discussed rethinking the awards system. A committee will review and bring ideas to the Board. The committee will consist of: Susan Dallas, Gary Goodale, Robin Jones, Rebecca Splan.

Reminder that individuals MUST be members in order to use park.

Dogs MUST be leashed.

March 8 is scheduled as a cleanup day from 1 to 3. Help is needed!

Reminder that gates should be closed.

Reported on cost for a new set of cones. Will order.

Requested that information re: any events be sent to her for posting.

Asked for input re: the sample banner advertisement. Will present suggestions for fees.

All shows listed in the Omnibus will be posted on the calendar.

Minutes of previous meeting sent to members in mass email.

The SWVADA basket given for the VADA Auction (prepared by Susan Dallas), sold for $300, the second highest item! The theme of the basket was “Chasing Away the Winter Chill.”

Re: D&O Insurance: Vada is trying to arrange for discount rates for chapters and a method to make affordable to all chapters.

Bob will have copies of tests by the next meeting, in time for coming shows.

NOTE to competitors: CT scores will be posted as DRESSAGE scores at SWVADA shows (will not be converted to CT).

NEED: Secretary for the July show.

Need: Manager/Secretary for the October show.