General Membership Meeting January 19, 2008

Syracuse Renaissance Hotel Minutes

President Gayle Farr-Moore called meeting to order at 10:13 a.m. Roll call was done with the following in attendance; Tom Hatch, Karen Kulha, Ed Brenkus, Linda Connors, Regina Kernin, Charlotte Jaynes, Ginger Tomassini, Wendy Bingman, Dan Bergstresser, Patti Hole, Gene Bingman, Dave Phillips, Sandy Burback, Ann Manion, Larry Jaynes, Sylvia Farr.

A motion was made to approve the December minutes by Dan and seconded by Ginger. Minutes were passed.

Treasurers report – a negative balance was recorded for year end but reported a net worth of $53,507. Youth showed a $13,874 balance an increase of $3000.

Introductions - Debbie Byrnes and Alicia Fereday Shiland our newsletter editor.

A Thank you was read to the membership from Lothorian Riding for our contribution last year.

Committee Reports - Website revamp – there have not been any improvements done for the last 3 years. Some ideas were discussed and would be considered at directors meeting.

Promotional and Trail – Numbers are consistent but need to grow. Dave suggested opening up to our border states. There was no discussion. Proposal made to accept and seconded.

Marketing/Sponsorship – there was some discussion on this and packets were made available for anyone who wanted. It was felt that seeing marketing put this together it would be best if the rest of membership to sell the sponsorships at the lower levels. The feeling was that the higher sponsorships would be best if handled by the board. A motion was made by Ed to accept and seconded by Larry Jaynes.

The Smart Equalizer breeding that was donated by Pat _____ had discussion on how to handle so that ESQHA would receive this donation. If auctioned at the banquet the proceeds would go to the youth organization. Seeing we are already into the breeding season the question was raised about holding off on this until next year, however, Spike Holmes offered $500 at the meeting, which was accepted and passed.

Show Committee – Footing again was a concern for some at the meeting as well as warm up area for the Spring Show and Breeders. Kim explained this issue has been addressed and changes are being done for shows where it is possible. The spring show will be split 50/50 between ESQHA and ESQHYA. The youth will be providing the shavings for the show and receiving all proceeds from the sale. There was discussion about doing a Special Event at the show mid-week. This day in the past has not proved to be very well attended due to work schedules and school. It was decided not to do a special event and seconded by Ed and passed by the group.

Old Business – Lothorian’s request of a contribution of $1000 was passed after much discussion.

The ad for Breeders was discussed. The size was yet to be determinded; 2 page or donation of $500, which included the ad. Regina reported she had started on the ad design. The dinner used as a fundraiser in the past was discussed. It was felt this was a good idea. A motion was made and seconded to do the $500 donation which would include the ad. Ad layout would be sent to directors for approval. Passed.

New Business – A benefit is scheduled for Norm Carney at the fairgrounds on January 27^th. It was decided that a donation box would to be set up during the silent auction time and any monies collected would be donated on behalf of ESQHA. A motion was made and seconded. Passed.

Brian Maxwell offered a proposal by CNYRHA to join with ESQHA to promote shows. It was felt that this might help to increase membership. They hold 5 shows for the season and any points would be approved. Reining group would track points and get to appropriate person for yearend awards. Dan made a motion to accept this partnership and Larry seconded. Passed.

Other – Linda Connors talked about the Novice Show at Lake Placid. This is a great show and felt a great experience for all that attended. Dates for show are August, 28 – 31.

Next Meeting will be February 24 at Inn of the Seasons, 4311 W. Seneca Turnpike, Syracuse. Directors and youth will meet on this date.

General Membership meeting will be March 30 time and place to be determined.

Meeting was adjourned at 11:40 a.m.

Respectfully submitted,

Joan Waldron

Executive Secretary