Board Members Present: Larry Thurber, Ann Czapla, Mary Szarek, Sharon  Kettner, Ginger Trautwein, Barb Cunningham, Becky Bartels, Peter Tarnawskyj, Linda Tarnawskyj, JoAnn Bonsack, Carol Schmelz, Gayle West, Mark Adrian, Barb Huber
Board Members Absent: Martha Sterniolo, Barb Rauscher, Vinni Speck,
Guests Present: Debbie Huckle, Bob Pfohl, Janet Pfohl
The meeting was called to order by President Barb Cunningham at 7:40 pm.
Minutes from the March meeting were submitted by JoAnn (thank you!) motion to accept the minutes made by Peter, seconded by Ginger.
Treasurer’s Report:
   Beginning balance $4,793.02
   Balance as of end of reporting period $4,803.00
   Operating Balance $4,530.46
   Scholarship Fund $56.00
   Hunters Creek Fund $216.56
   Special Funds Balance $272.56
   Dues receipt of $260.00
   SPCA Donation $250.00
   Disbursements of $140.00
Treasurer’s report received and filed.

Old Business:
•Peter read a letter of thanks from the SPCA.
•Barb thanked everyone for pitching in and helping to make the Spring Equine Get Together a success in light of her accident. 250 people attended; 50 vendors.
•Clinic Update: location has been changed to Hard Rock Stables on Royalton Center Road in Gasport. Cornell Cooperative Extension wanted 2 million dollars of insurance, horse council provides 1 million. There were many restrictions and additional fees and the management was not easy to work with. Hard Rock was much more accommodating and cooperative and is happy to have us. The clinic is full for riders – auditors still welcome. Mary is looking for volunteers and sent a sign up sheet around. Flyers will be posted at the old site on the day of the clinic in case people show up there. Flyers were distributed to board members to post and the new location will be noted in the upcoming newsletter.
•Mary went to a Monroe County Tractor Supply horse event in place of Barb who was unable to attend due to her accident. Mary reported that there was a small amount of foot traffic at the horse council table. The event was in support of a horse rescue. Monroe County does not have its own horse council chapter. Could be a place we could encourage members to join the Western Chapter.
•Barb did attend the Lockport Tractor Supply horse event and signed up a few new members. She also attended the Billy Hopkins auction and signed up a couple new members there as well. Our membership is greater this year than last.
•News on rescued horses: The will be moved out of Niagara County by May 1^st to an undisclosed location. Still awaiting charges against the owner. Horses are mostly in foster care and said to be doing well.
New Business:
•Bob Pfohl reported that the Allegany Master plan has been published – it is 93 pages long. There is a meeting on Thursday, May 13^th at 7PM at the Erie County Library downtown Buffalo. Please try to attend so that horse people are well represented. There are proposals for two new horse trail heads, two new trails and Camp 10 will be a horse camp. Mountain bikers would like to see some trails converted to multi-use – Bob has safety concerns with this idea due to dangerous topography (blind spots and dips in the trails) of some of the discussed trails.  He will bring up his concerns at the meeting.
•Bob also reported on the Catt – Chau Chapter earth day event at Allegany. About 30 people attended and cleaned Camp 10, put up a high line and hitching post.
•Lou Eibl will have a trail clean up day on June 5^th at Allegany.
•Lou Eibl spring ride is scheduled for the weekend of June 12^th
•recommended that a tape recorder be purchased for board meeting to assist with the minutes. Discussion followed; current secretary not interested in using recorder, but might come in handy when someone else needs to take minutes in her absence. Tabled at present – JoAnn will look into cost.
•The new Fairgrounds Showplex will have a grand opening on Friday, May 7^th from 4 -9 PM. Board members received invitations to attend.
•We will look into cost of having a future event at the Showplex.
•Mary suggested we consider decals, window stickers or bumper stickers to increase name recognition of the Western Chapter. Discussion followed – perhaps a magnet for  car would be better. Tabled for now – Mary will look into further options.
•Mary and Barb have been approached by people at various events unfamiliar with the Western Chapter who think that we only represent the Western riding discipline. Discussion followed about the possibility of changing some of the advertising items to read Western NY Chapter. Name cannot be officially changed.
•We are looking into the possibility of providing businesses who are members with plaques showing their membership with the Western Chapter. Wooden plaques can cost up to $23 each. Plastic plaques can cost $10-18 plus set up charges. Corrugated plastic/cardboard signs could be much cheaper and would still be durable for hanging in dusty areas like barns, etc. Mary will check pricing.
•Barb is looking for volunteers to lead trail rides since she will be unable to ride for awhile. Mark suggested maybe encouraging participation in other organization’s rides – especially those which benefit a charity (i.e. Lothlorian, Tender Mercy, etc.) It was agreed this would be a good idea; we will look into it further.
•Larry put out the idea that maybe we could organize and publish a local equine directory like Pat’s Tack Shop used to do. Idea was well received – maybe accept ads to help with cost. Will continue discussion at the next meeting. Barb will check into possible costs involved.

Motion to adjourn made by Barb H at 9:06 PM.
Respectfully Submitted,
Becky Bartels

Annual Spring Get Together

Attending: Barb Cunningham, JoAnne Bonsack, Mary Szarek, Ginger Trautwein, Carl Schmelz, Paul Szalinski, Barb Huber, Peter Tarnawskij, Linda Tarnawskij, Ann Czapla, Debbie Huckle, Larry Thurber, Sharon Kettner,
Also:  Bob Pfohl, Debbie Huckle, Melinda Loefke, Sandy Glair

Date & Time: Tuesday, February 23, 2010   7:30 pm

The following are the Minutes of the Western New York Chapter of the Horse Council:
Barb Cunningham, President, called the meeting to order at 7:33 pm.
Introduced were guests Sandy Glair and her daughter Melinda Melinda Loefke – who were invited to talk to the Council about the current situation regarding Knox Farm State Park – part of New Business.
The Minutes of the previous meeting were handed out and a motion was made to accept – all in favor.

Treasurer’s Report – Read by Peter Tarnawskij - $60.00 in old revenue. $55 to Farm Bureau  -  $4,269.29

OLD BUSINESS
Spring Equine Get Together – the following was discussed:
•The cost of holding the event at the Cornell Cooperative Education Center will now be $250.00 – Barb was blindsided by this fee – told of fee by the new person in charge – caught in the middle because vendors were told that event to them was free of charge.
•Discussed by many that the cost was still reasonable and included the possibility of asking vendors for a donation or money next year and to notify them of this change this year.
•This year, most already donated door prizes.
•Peter T. made a motion to pay (under protest) the $250.00 for use of the building this year.  A motion was made and all accepted.
•1 person to bring equipment as arranged by Barb C., who will also bring laptop
•Gifts for speakers discussed – something to think about.  Gift of “Council Membership” discussed as an option for 2011.
•Motion made by Barb C. to accept “Membership Council” as gift to speakers – all accepted.
•Mary S. also brought up possibility of have having Horse Council t-shirts as gifts – some discussion followed.  Barb C. liked the idea of clothes as gifts.
•A discussion ensued about raffling off a spot in for the June Clinic at the March Get Together. 
•A motion was made to accept this idea.  All were in favor.
•Doors to the event will open for set-up at 10:00 am.
•Trophy was ordered for Denny Lang as WNYHC’s “Horseman of the Year”. Picture of the new facility will be on the plaque.  Denny is thrilled to be nominated and will be there March 21, 2010.
•Award to Denny Lang will be made at the early part of meeting.
•50+ tables and 100+ chairs will be needed – set-up to be free (as part of contract-but checking on this,)
•The council will have a brief meeting before the event.
•It was discussed that the Fall meeting/Get Together to continue being held in Erie County and the Spring event in Niagara – though both contingent upon cost and availability.
2011 Event Info – Education and Equine Showcase
•Peter T. said he received only 2 responses so far.
•Mary S to format new sheet for proposed event-sheet that was e-mailed hard for some to print. 
2010 June Event Info – with Joanne Long
•Mary S. said June clinic info e-mailed to large group.  Lots of interest.  5 people signed up per Joanne Long.
•Mary to have more information for next newsletter.
•Joanne Long will not offer discount to clinic for 4-H groups
•Lengthy discussion followed about vendors at event – what to charge if anything.
•Raffle tickets to spot at clinic discussed and what to charge.
•$5 per ticket w/25 minimum tickets sold to break even must be sold was part of discussion.
•Barb C. has info on what to put on raffle ticket.
•The contract for the June clinic with Joanne Long was discussed to check for specifics – Mary S. to do.
NEW BUSINESS
•Sandy Glair spoke about ramification of Knox Farm State Park closing.
•Some issues discussed if Park closed:
-Vandalism
-Cost to taxpayers to mothball
-Park cannot be policed/monitored effectively if closed.
•Sandy G. to work on letter to send to legislators regarding the closing of Knox Farm Park, mentioning quality of life issues, hitting poor in this tough economy, election year. Letter to be sent to Mary S. so she can link on WNYHC website – so people viewing can send to legislators.
• Carol S. spoke briefly about forwarding info after trail meeting in Albany on March 10, 2010.
•Billy Hopkins Auction was noted – to be held April 9, 10, 11.  Barb used own money to pay for table.  After some discussion a motion made and accepted to put table at auction.  Two members abstained from voting on this issue.  One member against idea.
•It was noted that the next Western New York edition of Best of America by Horseback television broadcast on RFD-TV will be on February 25, 2010.
•Bob Pfohl gave a brief report on the meeting held in Sinclairsville.
•Paul Szalinski, a board member gave his resignation due to personal time limitations.  Motion made and accepted to accept his resignation.
•Barb Huber said Friends of Chestnut Ridge Park to meet and that she will be going to meeting and will forward report.
•2005 Equine Survey was passed out.
Motion to adjourn made by Barb C. was made at 9:10 pm and all accepted.

Board Members Present: Martha Sterniolo, Larry Thurber, Ann Czapla, Mary Szarek, Sharon  Kettner, Ginger Trautwein, Barb Cunningham, Becky Bartels, Peter Tarnawskyj, Linda Tarnawskyj, JoAnn Bonsack, Carol Schmelz, Gayle West
Board Members Absent: Barb Rauscher, Mark Adrian, Paul Szalinski, Vinni Speck, Barb Huber
Guests Present:  Debbie Huckle, Eve Zukowski, Bob Pfohl

The meeting was called to order by President Barb Cunningham at 7:35 pm.
Motion to accept the minutes of the October meeting with corrections (addition of a description of the November program and a correction to AHANY) made by Sue, seconded by Ginger.
Treasurer’s Report:
   Beginning balance $3,068.59
   Balance as of end of reporting period $3,889.29
   Operating Balance $3,616.73
   Scholarship Fund $56.00
   Hunters Creek Fund $216.56
   Special Funds Balance $272.56
   •Dues receipt of $932.50
   •Ad Revenue/badges $288.00
   •Disbursements of $399.80
Treasurer’s report received and filed.

New board member Martha Sturniolo and guests were introduced by Barb.
Old Business:
•Some committees still need chairs and members. The following board members volunteered:
   -Jo Ann – Public Relations
   -Ginger and Carol – Trails
   -Linda – Erie County
   -Carol – Niagara County
   -Ann – Program
Thank you to all our volunteers!
•Spring Equine Get Together – Barb reported that she was notified today that the Cooperative Extension has changed our date to the 21st of March. Barb will check with speakers and vendors to make sure they are available on the new date. The old date has already been printed in the newsletters. Barb has made up a change of date notice and will put them in the newsletters that will be mailed.
•Peter received a very nice thank you letter for our scholarship donation to High Hurdles.
•2010 Clinic – Mary distributed flyers with information on clinic to be held June 12, 2010. A list of obstacles needed was passed around and members indicated which obstacles they could provide. Mary has a large email list that she will use to email clinic info. Mary also received a question regarding the possibility of 4H members receiving a discount to the clinic. Mary will check with Joann Long.
•Carol requested an updated name and address list for board members. Barb will get one together and send it out.
New Business:
•Looking for ideas for the March Horse Person of the Year Award. Denny Lang from the Erie County Fairgrounds was suggested for spearheading the building of the new agricultural exhibition center which will benefit the local horse community. Motion was made by Peter, seconded by Sharon. Discussion followed. Motion carried. Motion was also made by Bob to make Mr. Lang an honorary member of the Western Chapter. Seconded by Peter. Discussion followed, motion carried.
•Carol mentioned that we need to submit an ad for the Farm Bureau Directory. Motion was made by Ginger to increase the size to a quarter page at a cost of $55 (business size ad was $30), seconded by Peter. Discussion followed – Becky will format a new quarter page ad using our logo. Motion carried.
•Barb Huber saw an article in the paper about a group of “Friends of Chestnut Ridge Park” and wondered if there were any horse people involved. Bob reported that trails there are washed out and can be dangerous. Maybe we could get involved with trail clean up there and get an idea of the trail conditions. We will keep the doors open.
•Budget cuts are threatening State Parks again.
•Larry mentioned that the Catt/Chau Chapter in having a coffee clatch on Feb. 21st. Anyone who is available will try to attend.
•2011 event at the new Fairgrounds facility. So far the ideas include: a one day event with vendors; local horse people will demonstrate their styles, disciplines and breeds. Peter has a list of ideas of people we could contact to see if they would be interested in participating. Everyone should fill out what they can and return it to Peter so he can better organize the information. Then we can begin to contact people to test their interest.
•Bob Pfohl reminded us that the RFDTV show “Best of America by Horseback” will air the episodes filmed here in WNY this month.
•There is a mounted police competition tentatively scheduled for September 2010 at the new facility sponsored by Wyoming County. Not verified, but if it happens would be a huge event.
•There is a master plan for parks meeting scheduled at Letchworth State Park on March 18th.
•Chautauqua County master plan meeting scheduled for February 10th. Barb and Gayle plan to attend to represent horse people.

Motion made to adjourn the meeting made by Barb Huber at 9:08pm.
Respectfully Submitted,
Becky Bartels

Board Members Present: Mark Adrian, Barb Cunningham, Barb Huber, Barbara Rauscher, Carol Schmelz, Paul Szalinski, Mary Szarek, Peter Tarnawskyj, Linda Tarnawskyj, Ginger Trautwein, Larry Thurber, JoAnn Bonsack, Gayle West
Also Present: , Janet Pfohl
Board Members Absent: Becky Bartels, Ann Czapla, Sharon Kettner, Vinni Speck, Susan Braen, Bob Pfohl

The meeting was called to order by President Barb Cunningham at 7:33 pm.
Motion to accept the minutes of the May meeting with a correction (Barb Huber absent) was made by Ginger, seconded by Barb H.
Treasurer’s Report:
   Beginning balance $4,224.95
   Balance as of end of reporting period $3,867.26
   Operating Balance $3,454.70
   Scholarship Fund $196.00
   Hunters Creek Fund $216.56
   Special Funds Balance $412.56
   • Dues received from NYSHC $75.00
   • Hunter’s Creek Fund Expenses $120.00
   • Disbursements of $432.69 for pins, website, newsletter and Silver Spur Class Sponsorship
Treasurer’s report received and filed.
Old Business:
• Mary passed out badges, bill has been paid. Replacements will be $3.00. Peter made a motion for the membership committee to be in charge of the pins, Mark seconded
• Fall Ride was a great success, with 31 riders. Weather and trails were perfect.
• First Responders training session deadline for sign up is September 29. Only one person has signed up so far. 10 trainers are needed, and five 4H students are needed. Teachers and trainers are to arrive at 8 am. Lonesome Pine Stables are providing 10 horses.
• Fall Membership meeting scheduled for Sunday November 15, 2009 from 1:00-3:00. Light snacks will be provided. There will be a brief meeting including the election of officers and board members. Peter and Paul are looking into possible locations for the meeting. Peter will be contacting speakers hopefully to include:
-Mark Thomas, the director of the Western Region OPRHP, James Hornung,
-James Hornung, Erie County Commissioner of Parks & Recreation
-David Paradowski, Supervising Forester NYS DEC
New Business:
• 2010 Clinic – maybe June 12, 2010. Possibly at Niagara County 4H grounds. $500 day rental. Board members agreed we should proceed with planning this clinic. Mary Szarek will Chair the organization of the clinic.
• JoAnne Bonsack will fill Keith’s position on the board – appointed by Barb C.
• Motion made by Peter to present plaques to a Kelsey Baldwin, past N.Y.S. High School Rodeo Queen and Lydia Prabucki the current N.Y.S. High School Rodeo Queen. The plaques will be presented at the Annual Membership meeting. Seconded by Ginger. Mark will order the plaques and let Peter know the cost.
• Mark A suggested Jeff Harris of the Town of Aurora for the next meeting to discuss zoning issues as they relate to horses in that town. Mark will contact him to see if he can attend.
• Trails report – Carol mentioned that a booklet called “Sharing the Road in NYS” does not include horses.
• Nominating committee – Mary S and Becky will put together a slate of officers and board members.
• Farm Bureau needs a representative.

Motion made to adjourn the meeting made by at 9:10pm.

Respectfully Submitted,
Becky Bartels (minutes taken by Gayle West and transcribed by Becky)