March 2008 Meeting Minutes

by Michael Bernier

Due to icy roads on March 6^th, HAT’s monthly meeting was rescheduled for March 13^th. President Sandra Shiver called this meeting to order shortly after 7pm. There were no guests in attendance.

Program: The program for this month was cancelled.

Announcements (carry-over from February):

· April 12 – Saddlebound 4-H Show, Loy Lake Arena

· April 12 - Deadline for HAT Youth Scholarship applications.

· April 19 – HAT Spring Open Horse Show, Crossfire Ranch Arena, Calera, OK

· May 10 – HAT/Saddlebound Youth Clinic – Loy Lake Arena

· June 14 – HAT Summer Open Horse Show, Crossfire Ranch Arena, Calera, OK

The February meeting minutes were not read aloud due to length. They were accepted as published in the March newsletter, with one correction by Sandra Shiver regarding the selection process for the scholarship winner. A brief Treasurer’s report was also provided by Sandra Shiver.

Scholarship Committee: To date, one application has been received. A follow-up press release reminding everyone of the application deadline will be sent to local media and horse clubs tomorrow.

Old Business:

· Showmanship Clinic: Sandra Shiver reported the Clinic was a big success. The facility was excellent, and the clinician was very well received.

· April Show:

o Robin Chouteau reviewed the volunteer list. There are still some openings to be filled, particularly those of Announcer and one Ring Steward.

o Sandra Shiver reviewed the arena layout, having just attended the Showmanship Clinic at the same facility. Discussed arrangements for managing traffic flow in and out of the ring, including placement of the warm up, staging, and ribbons areas.

o Sandra also asked about making signs to help guide participants from the highway to the arena grounds, and for directing traffic in and out of the arena building. Several options were discussed. Ann Sanderson offered to look into whether some of the sign equipment used for the Ralph Hall election campaign could be borrowed for this show.

o Mike Bernier and Rick Fehr reviewed show office needs. Mike will do all of the form printing and bring all of his equipment as before, and will be instructing Rick during the show on how to set up and operate it.

o The condition of the Trail equipment was discussed. Of particular concern is the bridge obstacle, which was not painted last fall. Mike will check on the condition of the bridge and have it painted prior to the April show.

· Freeze branding clinic: Still being worked; no updates.

· Horsemanship Clinic Series: No dates set yet, looking at starting in late spring.

· Trail Rides – Mike Scully was not in attendance, but had passed along that he is available to lead rides on most Sundays this coming spring and summer.

New Business:

· Treasurer’s position: Michele Beard has stepped down as HAT Treasurer. In accordance with the club by-laws, Sandra Shiver appointed Jenni Dougan to fill the vacancy. Jenni accepted the appointment, and will work with Michele and Sandra to transition the paperwork to her.

· Debit Card: Mike Bernier has asked if HAT could obtain a debit card to be used for ordering office and printing supplies. This would avoid the need for purchasing supplies with personal funds and then submitting receipts for reimbursement. Sandra and/or Jenni will check with the bank.

The meeting was adjourned.

Correction to February Minutes

It was reported in the February minutes that Cotton and Carol Waldron would be selecting the 2008 Youth Scholarship winner, which is incorrect. The Youth Scholarship Committee reviews all applications received and selects the winner.

HAT apologizes for any confusion this may have caused.