May 5, 2009  Minutes

In attendance:  Robin DeMaio, Mark Gisselbrecht, Debbie Botbyl, Leslie Newman, Ginger Russell, Debbie Schiraldi, June Evers, Louis Everett, Patti Bowens, Chip Watson.

Mark called the meeting to order at 7:40p.  Motions were read and approved. 

Mark had nothing to report in his president’s report.  Patti got signature card so she can become a signatury for our account.  She needs a check for $118.47 for Laura’s Golden Thread.  There is going to be a meeting on June 17th at the Boat House at Thomas Bull Park at 7:00p regarding the new Horse Park.  June and Debby asked if we could trail ride at Thomas Bull park.  Patti said we couldn’t ride there.  A short discussion followed there.  Robin mentioned that the parking lot was fixed at Goosepond.   Ginger mentioned that we should get a sign saying “horse crossing.”  Mark explained that we need to write a letter.  Mark will investigate.  We will wait for Treasurer’s report.

Debby B reported that no speakers are lined up.  No special projects are lined up.  Mark discussed having a special meeting at one of the local barns.   We discussed going to Paul Congelosi’s place one evening to discuss trailers.  It would be a special meeting, not one of our regular meetings.   June suggested having Gary do a trailer loading session.    Debby incorporated having a pool party at the same time.  August would be a good idea.    Motion was made to see if July would work for him. 

Robin reported on the horse show.  We need sponsorships.  She mentioned the new sponsorship on the sweatshirts.

Debbie Schiraldi mentioned that we now have 59 members (up from 35).  The newsletter includes a membership form.  There are some businesses that have not rejoined.  Debbie is pursuing them.  We are about 10% of the state’s membership.

Patti mentioned that she created an OCHC group on Facebook.  Ginger asked if she could change her ID on her license plate.

Debby asked that people put a subject in the subject line of the email.  Mark agreed to label stuff. 

Old Business:  Mark mentioned that we have 20 copies of “Hold Your Horses” booklet.  Debby suggested that Louis get a copy as our newest member.  We decided to give them to new members when they come to a meeting.  Mark has the rest of the books, and he needs an email if anyone needs one.  Mark did ask June about making a bumper sticker for OCHC.  She is switching to decals  or window stickers from bumper sticker. 

New Business:  Gift program for guest speakers -- Mark has been thinking about some type of gift.  Mark suggested a $50 gift certificate to thank someone for coming to speak at our meetings.    Debbie S said Tractor Supply doesn’t contribute, lets use a restaurant that is nice to us -- Robin suggested using El Bandido since they let us use their restaurant as a meeting place.  Leslie suggested that we give a membership instead.  Mark suggested sticking in an application instead.    A letter and an application will accompany the gift certificate.  Robin suggested backdating to include Rachel Fiske.    Debbie B will get the certificates from El Bandido. 

Deb Corr wants us to brainstorm about some type of equestrian event to include in the Senior Games.  The games are in the middle of Sept…  at Orange County park.  Mark said he would set up his cowboy versatility class.  We said the event should happen at the park, not at a private venue. 

A short discussion was had regarding the new horse park.  Chip updated everyone about what was going on, phase one, especially. 

 We went around the room. 

 Meeting was adjourned at 9:01p.

April 7, 2009  Minutes

In attendance:  Robin DeMaio, Debbie Schiraldi, Kathy Hamre, Mark Gisselbrecht, Debbie Botbyl, Eddie Foley, Ken and Leslie Newman, June Evers, Ginger Russell,  Louis Everett, Joan Grogan.  Special Guest:  Dr. Rachel Fiske from Pine Bush Equine.

Meeting called to order at 7:40p.      Debbie B read minutes from last meeting.  Minutes were approved.    Kathy did a financial report.  Current amount: $5839.76.  She has a bill for Farm Bureau, we need to pay that.  Mark made a motion to join the Farm Bureau, Debbie seconded.  The motion was approved. 

Debbie B introduced Dr. Rachel Fiske, to speak on spring shots and first aid.  Her contact info is 845-361-4917.  She passed out many fliers and info sheets. 

Mark opened the floor to final questions.  The meeting was called at 9:05pm.

Members:  Mark Gisselbrecht, Patti Bowens,  Robin DeMaio, Debbie Schiraldi, Kathy Hamre,  Debby Botbyl, Ginger Russell.  Kevin Hamre was also present.

President’s Report:  Mark reported on a new chapter formed recently, for NYC, with a focus on restoring Prospect Park for riding.  There are 6 VP/Director’s chairs, with those members being asked to leave, because of poor attendance.  Mark reported on various speakers that he heard at the most recent NYSHC meeting. 

Patti reports that the NYSHC classes have all been pulled, as the program was cancelled last week.  Participation was too low.

Kathy - treasury report:  $4714.51 in the kitty, about $2500 from the show, plus another $600 turned in tonight.  We are almost at the break-even point for our show. 

Debby Botbyl asked that we start thinking about speakers since we have a nice new space in Campbell Hall.  Debby will check to see if there are any other Wednesdays are available in the month at the new location.  Debby read her slate of nominations:  for Corresponding Sec’t:  Patti Bowens, for President:  Mark Giselbrecht, for Treasurer:  Kathy Hamre.  A motion was made to put the slate into nomination, and Debbie Schiraldi seconded the slate.  We asked if there were any nominations from the floor, and Ginger Russell said she would handle the refreshments.  Mark said we would handle that in January.  Mark pointed out that the corresponding sect’y had to put something out to the members.  Debby said that Patti had distributed an email telling the public that we would be discussing the nominations.  Patti will send an email announcing the slate of officers that has been nominated.  It will also go into the newsletter that will go out by Oct 15th.  The election will be at the November meeting, on Nov 5th, at 7:30pm.  No director’s meeting is planned at that meeting. 

Robin and Patti presented all the info on the horse show to update everyone.

Mtg adjourned at 9:45p

If someone wants to sponsor a jump it will cost $200 to make, and then we would charge more to make some money. Robin said maybe for next year, she would like it on the show paperwork and its too late for this year. Deb said nothing is going on with the parks dept.

Robin said the western patterns are up on the site. She’s having trouble getting the course designs done from the English folks...Deb Corr said to change people. So Robin may do that. Robin will work with Mark on the obstacle class. Kathy asked Robin to get measurements from Miguel for Kathy’s husband to make a bridge. Robin told everyone about Ozzie’s clinic.

Deb Corr told everyone that Colleen Segura has colon cancer. She’s home, doing well. She asked if we could possibly have a fundraiser class or something else that would help. Mark asked if someone would coordinate some type of fundraiser. Possibly share some of the proceeds to Colleen. Mark suggested giving half of our half to Colleen. Debbie S suggested making a flyer out about Colleen. Patti will put something out on horsecents. Linda suggested putting a flyer into the bags at the Sparc ride. Mark will call and see if all this is good. Linda also said people could bring donations to the Sparc ride and we can truck them over. Patti will call the guest who didn’t make it to choose another night.

Then the executive meeting is adjourned, and the general meeting is opened up. Members included Ginger Russell, Kelly Dobart, Ken Newman, Leslie Newman.

Kelly is getting redeployed, and is looking for someone to take over her horse. She would prefer that the person is from NY and North Carolina. From about June/July until March 2010. It’s a free lease. She holding a contest for the free lease.

Robin read the minutes from the Feb meeting and they were accepted. Mark gave his president’s report again for the general meeting. The Newman’s suggested a place at the old town hall in Walkill. Kathy will look into this for us.

Robin updated the general membership about the horseshow.

Debbie S updated the membership situation. She mailed out the newsletter to about 70 people.

Ken belongs to a few different clubs. They sometimes have meetings in restaurants.
Ken explained about the southern tier quarterhorse assoc, they are updating their group. Mark explained about the insurance situation. We have to run an event for it to be covered by the state insurance.

We discussed having a meeting at a restaurant, Ken said the food is a big draw for people to get them to come to a meeting.

Mark updated the general population about Colleen Seggara’s situation.

No new business, and the meeting was adjourned at 8:30pm

Deb Corr said they are moving along w/ Farm Center, they are completely a 501C3. Next up business plan and more feasibility studies, including surveys. Road is complete.

Robin brought everyone up to speed about the horse show. We need more sponsors, vendors. Chip will bring flyers to Tom Davis’ attn. at 4H. Mark suggested that Robin call the Ulster Cty Equifest people to help work the show, or maybe have a booth.

Deb Schiraldi spoke about the newsletter going out, and she has asked some community businesses if they’ like to write an article to go into the next newsletter. Deb suggested having a sponsorship fee of $15 to cover printing costs of the newsletter. Mark explained that we will have a list of sponsorship fees to cover the costs of newsletter. Mark said that in the future it will go to people without email accounts. Deb Corr said its not green to print and mail so much, why do we need to mail to people that can read it online. Mark said as long as its paid for he has no problem with mailing it to everyone. He said if it comes to a negative balance we can revisit the issue. Mark approved the content and will continue to do so in the future. Motion was passed 6-1.

Chip reported on tack show. She said we $746.22 was taken in, expenses totaled $471.70, leaving profit of $274.52. Discussion was made about the cost of taking out ads, and why the free ads didn’t run in the local papers. A suggestion was made that someone should pay a visit to the newspapers in person to make sure future free ads run. Deb Corr did say that the chili sold out! Another suggestion was to find another place to hold the auction that wouldn’t cost us so much. Chip said we are getting a break to get it for so cheap.

Mark said he wanted to find another venue for our meetings. Kathy Hamre will ask the Walkill Town Hall bdg. She spoke to someone there last week, and did not get a positive response. Debby Botbyl mailed a letter to Hamptonburgh Town Hall, and they sounded like it was very possible. Deb Corr suggested moving it around, at different farms. Debby B said she prefers that we stick to one place for consistency sake.

State Horse Council mtg. is this Sat, 1/19. Mark is driving up, and he has room for one more. Kelly said she would go. Kelly brought Army Equestrian t-shirts to sell. $20 each, long sleeve. Mark asked for new business from the floor. OCHC member Colleen Segura spoke about ongoing cases about horse abuse in the area.

Mark adjourned the mtg. at 7:45pm.
 

MINUTES 11/15/07

 No President Report, Kathy Hamre gave a Treasurer’s report.   Kathy now has the key for the PO box.

 Discussion of recent ballots sent out to membership.  The envelopes were not done correctly.  Debby Botbyl and Kaitelyn Newman went off to count the votes that were received.

 Debbie Schiraldi nominated Robin DeMaio for vacated office of Recording Secty.  Patty Bowens seconded, and ballots will go out to membership, with line for write-in candidate.  Extra envelopes will be used for a correct procedure this time.

 Discussion of section 3A in bylaws discussed.  No advertising or email links will be permitted on any Council business from now on.  This is to follow guidelines set up by NYSHC, as explained by Chip Watson.

 Discussion of having a newsletter go out to membership.  May be too expensive at this point, and all pertinent info is going on the web site anyway.  Debbie S said that at this point only 12 members don’t have email addresses listed, so we might just send those members with no email address a paper newsletter so they know what’s going on.  Mark wants the council to be inclusive, not exclusive.

 Debby Botbyl returned with the results of the election:  Linda Meyer voted in as VP 25-1. 

 Discussion of future speakers.  Deb Corr and Chip suggested supporting a program on Nov 26^th about farm safety rather than have our own.  Mark wants to have some meetings at Gander Mt, like we did w/ Bob Jeffries, to have room for more people.  Patty suggested calling these seminars.  We will have speakers Jan Feb and March, Debby B has suggestions and will work on them.  Deb Corr thinks we need to work closer with Cornell Cooperative so that we don’t duplicate their efforts.  Mark says that in 2008 we will have ten meetings; skipping Aug and Dec.  He retains the right to have executive meetings separately if needed.  Our meetings will stay as they are now, on the third Thursday of the month.

 Deb Corr shared that Santa will be at Thom Bull Park on Dec 10^th, needs to find a safe sleigh and driver for him to arrive.

 Deb Corr is working with Dotty Murphy on horse trails in Warwick with the Parks Commissioner.  Also, updated that the Friends of Orange County Horse & Farm Center now have their 5013c non-profit status.  Plans are going forward for fundraisers.  The road is being built at the new site and plans are in the works to move the rings over there hopefully by Spring. 

 Patty spoke about the new logo items for sale on the website.  Available to everyone, they are directly billed, no cost to the council although we do get a piece of the money.

 Chip talked about the auction, said the date was wrong, not Dec 2, now it’s Dec 16^th.  Deb Corr offered to head up the food committee for the event.  Mark will call Debra Morano to make sure we are insured.

 Mark announced that Robin DeMaio will chair the Horseshow committee and she made her report.  The committee held it’s first meeting.  The show is called the Orange County Horse Show and Expo, and will include English, Western and Speed events.  She passed around a sponsorship form, and asked everyone to start collecting sponsors.  Patty will work with Kelly Dobart about creating a page for the show linked to the council’s homepage.  Sponsors will be listed as they pay.  We have sent a letter to the Rotary asking them to buy back the ribbons with their names on them, the committee has decided to purchase new ribbons.  We are waiting to hear back from the Parks Commissioner to see if he will waive the fee.  Robin will call Debra Morano about insurance.  Two judges have been booked:  Mary Jane Mitchell for English and Ken Fairfax for Western.  June Evers will be one announcer, we will need another.    The day will include tables for vendors – kids’ organizations will get  a free table.  We’re hoping for a lot of vendors to share info with the entire horse community.

 We discussed the footing situation at Orange County Park, and will investigate having the county fix and maintain the footing or if we can do it ourselves.  Nina Lieberman offered her tractor, Kathy Hamre has  a york rate, and Ozzie offered to help w/ manpower.  This is an issue we will continue to focus on.

The meeting was adjourned at 8:45p.  The Horseshow Committee stayed late to continue making plans.

 Submitted by Robin DeMaio

7/19/07  OCHC meeting,  Brick Church,  Montgomery, NY

Held in parking lot - no key to get in the building.

Speaker - Doug Eighmey, NYS DOT, Motor Carrier Safety Bureau, Enforcement Unit, Intermodal Transportation Specialist, Hazardous Materials Specialist.

Doug’s number is 845-564-8570, fax  845-567-1353.  Bldg 710, 196 Breunig RD, Stewart Int’l Airport, New Windsor, NY 12553.

(Please call Doug with any specific questions.  It was difficult to get down all the information he provided – L Nauditt).

GENERAL INFORMATION FROM DOUG:

Title 49, Code of Federal Regulations are the rules.  Copies can be obtained at truck stops.  Small book, white and green.

If your truck and trailer are 10000 pounds or more, then you are supposed to have a DOT number, if you are in commerce.

DOT is in charge of truck inspections, but DOT, local police, or state police can inspect for numbers.

If you leave the state of NY even 1 time, you are interstate and must have USDOT number without an NY on the end.  If you only travel within NY, then your are intrastate, and can get a DOT number with NY on the end.

To get numbers – go on fed website, or call NY state on toll free number (866-881-2630)

www.fmcsa.dot.gov is the federal website.

DOT numbers are free, are a carrier identification number.

If you are in business, if you use expenses as tax deductions, you should have a number.

Your name has to go on the side of the truck with the number.  The number goes on truck, not on the trailer.  The same number goes on all your trucks (the business owns the number).

A commercial motor vehicle has to have annual inspection.  The inspection should be the heavy duty inspection, not the light duty inspection (NY has adopted the federal guidelines).  The heavy duty inspection should cost about $45.  Trailers must be inspected, too.

Hours of service – if you only travel within 150 miles of your farm and are back in 12 hours, you do not have to keep time records (logbooks).

If you have DOT numbers, you can only have 11 hours driving time, and no work over 14 hours.  Must have log book for the previous 7 days if you have been driving over the road.

If you have DOT numbers, you must do a pre trip inspection (lights, tires, hitches, etc); this does not have to written.  A post trip inspection is required also and must be written, (date, mileage, id of vehicle, things found wrong).  Safety related things must be fixed before the trip.  Post trip inspection reports do not have to be carried in the truck – can be kept in office. 

At road check – you must know what you are talking about, or you will get a hard time.  Ignorance is no excuse.

Private vs. commerce use – put numbers on magnetic sign and use only when you are doing commerce.

Within 18 months of getting a number, the inspectors will come to inspect your business records, if you are interstate (post trip check, insurance papers, etc).  The inspector’s first trip is an educational visit, will help you get started, educate you.  Will check back in a few months and see your progress.  They are not ‘out to get’ you, but do expect progress if your records were not all in order on their first visit.

OCHC Brick Church, 6.21.07, 7 pm Executive Meeting

 Signed attendance roster:  Laura Nauditt, Chip Watson, Deb Corr, Audrey Reith, Deb Schiraldi, Linda Meyer, Mark Gisselbrecht, Patty Bowens

Debbie Morano – could not attend.  She was supposed to be here to represent NYSHC to discuss insurance liability issues for events OCHC covers.  

 Doug Eighmey,  NYDOT (horse trailer/hauling DOT regulations) is going to be speaker at next meeting;  Debbie Morano also if she can make it.

 Old business:

 No treasurer report

 No meeting minutes from May.

Public Affairs report - Farm Bureau needs about 30 more members or we are going to lose a legislative member.  www.nyfb.org.  Farm Bureau has just fought and defeated having to bring barns up to code c classification, and are trying to limit the increase in the assessment on farms to 10% per year.  Membership is $65/yr.  Many good member discounts -  Ford, Grainger, Dodge.  518-431-5605, Fred Perrin.  Please call him if you are a member and make sure you are counted as ‘active’ if you are already a member (Mark G says he joined this year and Deb Corr says he is showing on the inactive list).

Members of OCHC met today with Brett Simmons, OC Park Commissioner, today to talk about the Orange County Horse and Farm Center.  Need to get master plan together.  Next meeting on 7/19 at boathouse at OC Park at 1 pm.

 No Community Relations, no Social, no Education reports.

Deb Shiraldi - needs only OCHC seal for brochure.  Deb to get with Patty Bowens.   Discussion of logo design.

Patty Bowens - Café Press has the capacity to put our logo on merchandise, and people can go online and purchase.  We don’t have to do anything and it doesn’t cost us anything.  Mark G. asks Patty to get us the website for us to go look at it.

Deb Botbyle - has nothing on Special Projects.

 Chip - asks Mark G. to take a letter and receipt and get reimbursement from Southern Tier for the Rotary show ribbons Chip already bought.

 New business

Audrey  -  has request for proposal for grant for leadership training for the community, wants OCHC to collaborate with Extension (?) to sponsor the proposal, possible $30k grant.  Motion to support Audrey in her pursuit of a grant for a leadership program & risk development from American Agriculturalist Foundation.  Deb Botbyle made motion to support, Deb Corr seconds.  Mark asks Audrey to bring more info at next meeting.

Linda Meyer is going to Knoxville to the National Trails Conference.

July or Aug meeting is going to be a picnic.

There are no new fundraisers on the agenda.  Deb Shiraldi has idea for the raffle of a trip.   Patty suggests a big screen tv.  Chip says can we do raffles legally?  Mark says he will check with George.   Deb Botbyle suggests horse bingo.

Audrey says new horse events calendar coming out for June – Dec.

Chip asks about combined series with Ulster?  Mark has talked to them, Shannon was supposed to get back with him but has not yet.

Motion to adjourn   8 pm.

OCHC MEETING 4/19/07

SUBMITTED BY ROBIN DEMAIO

A suggestion was made to read minutes ahead of time on the website, so as to not waste time at our meetings.

Deb Corr reported that she, Chip, Patty and Mark are having a meeting w/ the new Parks Commissioner, Carol Ash on 5/15 in Albany.  Among items to be discussed is the coggins issue at Palisades Parks.  We need the same rights as others who enjoy the parks.  We also discussed trail markings there.  We asked for input from everyone.  Also discussed lack of parking at Harriman State Park and Goosepond.   Everyone is asked to email Patti with input.

Zoning in Newburgh was changed – 20 acres/horse.  Town of Wallkill wants to change their zoning.  Patti will look over the info to see how it will affect horse people.  Kathy Hamre will also review.  Deb Corr reminded everyone to go to their town meetings.

Chip is no longer running the rotary horse show on Sept 16^th.  The horse council is no longer associated with the show.  Discussion was held regarding holding another show as our fundraiser.  We have already spent money on the ribbons, which say “rotary” on them.  Chip has bought other items as well.  Robin DeMaio will inquire at the Orange County Park what other dates are available.  Deb Botbyl suggested having a second rotary show, since the ribbons say rotary on them.  Robin offered to help run the show w/ Chip, if she is still interested.  Other ideas for fundraising:  raffle, poker run, trail ride.  Robin mentioned the advantages of having a show over raffle:  community awareness, signing up new members, good publicity for council, etc.

The Ulster Equifest issue came up.  Robin doesn’t think we should have to pay to be there.  We will put our info together at one table with other horsey groups, for no charge.  It’s happening on May 20^th and we need people to man the booth.  We will confirm workers at our next mtg.

At the Sparc ride there will be a raffle for horse feed.

We will not be able to meet on the 3^rd Thursday in Aug, due to room conflicts.  We discussed maybe having a BBQ that night.  We will probably move the meeting to the 4^th Thurs that month.

Patty discussed insurance issues.  We don’t have details of our policy yet.  She is looking into our liability insurance to make sure we have some..  Later we spoke to Chip on the phone and she confirmed that we do have liability.  We discussed Sparc’s use of our insurance on the May 6^th ride.  They need to include the OCHC on their waiver.

Deb suggested having a Derby party next year as a fundraiser.  Kelly Dobert from West Point told about a fundraiser that included a horse race.

Kathy Hamre spoke to our bank, and they will waive fees and reimburse us for last year’s fees.  The account was originally opened as a commercial account, not as a non-profit. 

Kelly Dobert made a presentation about two events that West Point is sponsoring.  She passed out flyers and discussed the shows.  One is a Dressage event and the other a Gymkhana.  Dates are June 9^th and 10^th.

Deb Botbyl said our Feb speakers could come in May instead (snowed out in Feb).  We discussed whether or not we wanted meetings in the summer months.  Robin spoke in favor of having the meetings, keeping the momentum going, we’re a new group, etc. 

Discussion of “Get Psyched” night @ Bullville Firehouse.  $25/person.  Speakers, instruction  of trailer hookups, etc.

The council is insuring the SPARC ride on May 6^th.  It was done last year as well.  Deb Corr spoke out strongly in favor of making Sparc get their own insurance policy.  We called Mark, he told us they were giving us a share of the gate.  We will insist that Sparc become members in OCHC. 

The meeting was adjourned at 9:15pm.

3/15/07 OCHC Executive (7:00 pm) and Horse Council meeting (7:30 pm), Brick Church, Montgomery

Attendees: L Nauditt, Mark Gisselbrecht, Chip Watson, Deb Corr, Jeanie Ryan, Patti Bowens, Audrey Reith, Debbie Schiraldi, Linda Meyers, Kathy Hamre, Peter Cashman,

Andy (?) , Ray Murphy, Heather and George Scholl (?)

 Reading of minutes from January meeting.  Motion to accept January minutes: seconded, accepted.

Corresponding Secretary reports about receiving a renewal notice from Ryan Insurance.

Mark wants to speak to another insurance company’s quote (Company in Missori?).

 Treasurer reports $775 in deposits from NYSHC since Jan. meeting.  She paid OC Farm Bureau, SPARC donation, Goshen postmaster, etc.  Needs bank statements.  Laura has key, asks for help remembering to get mail.  Discussion of  bank’s service charge, discussion of changing banks, asking current bank to waive.

 Committee chair reports:

Chip:  NYSHC meeting not held in Jan.  Next meeting is in April.  Slaughter ban causing problems with unwanted horses starving in feedlots.  Many slaughter houses closed even though bill did not pass.  Is Orange County Horse Council/NYSHC for or against slaughter?   Discussion of whether slaughter is right, are horses livestock or pets?       Farm bureau’s position is that there is no good future plan for horses not slaughtered.

Deb Schiraldi:  Passed out first draft of brochure to be used to solicit membership.  Suggestion made to add our website, change some wording.  Mark G. asked Audrey to work with Deb to revise brochure.

Mark G.:  Budget - Mark wants info from Chip about horse show income.  Wants to quantify ins/outs.  Mark will contact chairs and officers to get our idea of what’s ahead as far as expenditures.

Regular meeting    7:30 pm

Mark G. was on Chip and Peter’s radio show on 1/27/07.

Palisades Park coggins proof discussion.

Audrey requests money for her sending ballots.  Kathy says she needs the receipt.

Unfinished business:  Ulster County Horse Council spring event - May 20 – Robin does not want to spend $75 for participating.  Chip says we should help staff their booth.  Mark wants to rescind approval of us paying $75 to the Ulster County Horse Council for a booth.  Seconded and approved.  Mark will contact Shannon Budnick.

Farm Bureau bill is paid per Kathy Hamre.

New business:    

Show on March 25^th at Whisper Hill Farm.  Mark passed flyer around.

Audrey: has 2007 equine calendar  and passed out copies.  May go to two 6-month calendars, spring and fall to accommodate size.

Tech Large Animal Rescue seminar at Schunnemunk - tomorrow –Sunday.  Room for auditors and participants.  Free lesson drawing for auditors with OC Dressage.

Ag literacy day - next week in schools.

4/4  McNamara Get Ready for Spring seminar - Warwick Equine Clinic

4/30  Mini seminar in evening - Kip Rosenthal, Congeolsi Trailers - ‘Get Psyched’.  Kip is a trainer/judge.  Seminar concerns animal and rider psychology.  Iis going to speak about rider psychology, get ready to ride, time for interaction.

Driving clinic   5/18 - 5/19

Farm Equip Safety - Farm Safety Audit - farm power equip.  5 hour and lunch included.  Dave Teter.  Info given to Audrey for her library   .

Linda – items for newsletters; Deb C suggests putting on website.

Walker Valley Rail Trail – need to put on our mailing list, email list.  They are supportive of us.  Mark is going to their meeting next week.

SPARC Ride on 5/6.  Members took flyers to disburse.

Linda asks for OCHC to use its insurance to cover the SPARC ride – our insurance allows us to cover a certain # of events (4?) per year.   Linda says we covered it last year.    Chip says she thinks we did not.  Chip says all events that were going to be covered had to be in in December.  Chip says NYSHC will ask how the OCHC is benefited?    Mark suggest letting SPARC make a donation back to us for that or a percentage of gate.   Chip will check with NYSHC and see, check on rider.

Linda thanks OCHC for donation to SPARC        .

Appaloosa horse club info presented,  given to Audrey.

Deb Corr -  new business - OC Horse and Farm Center - is moving forward, but have not had meetings lately.  Peter - County is working on our behalf.  County’s intention is to have road in by summer; 2 rings, 40 stalls in existing barn, extension on barn made into classroom offices and bathrooms; cutting brush and cleaning property.   What buildings to take down?  Treelines and wetlands are an issue.   Assures everyone Center is moving ahead.  Farmer’s road could be upgraded.  Ottaway will go to back people that own current road if they have to.

Karlewitz did accounting to get 501C3 for us; billed $500 IRS, $25 state fee.  Deb C says $425 collected already.  Collected money at meeting.

Next meeting - third Thurs in April.

Mark G.  There is to be no personal advertising on any OCHC correspondence.  Anyone sending out OCHC correspondence is to take off all personal business advertising.  He reports that the budget is coming along.

June Evers is off on business.

Classes offered by NYSHC at state fair.  Chip says pay membership fee as organization, must register shows on NYSHC website.

Kathy Hamre - membership list and renewals came with checks.  Gave list to Debbie Schiraldi.

Audrey - Equine Line given out by Audrey, along with NYS Ag district brochure info.    

Colleen - New Paltz equestrian team is helping the Horse Rescue.  Colleen is looking to find a sound horse to donate to them to be stabled at Lucky C.  The equestrian team is going to have a fundraiser for the rescue to help build a barn, ‘Raise the Roof’ at the Airport Inn on 3/29, in Montgomery at 6 pm.   Kraoke planned.   Donated finger food would be appreciated.  Mark G has a flatbed and could go get equip for Colleen.

Colleen has horses that need homes and has adopted some out - gave rundown of some that have been adopted out.   

Knows of a 17 yr old, QH stallion needs rescue from killer pen.  Money Does Talk, reportedly does 2^nd level dressage.   Is sound but thin.  Has been shown at Devon.  Need $ to rescue.

Knows of a TB mare, cracked sesamoid, needs rescue or will be put down. 

Guest Speaker - Dr Dubensky (spelling?) and his wife.   Audrey introduces.  Milford Vet Clinic.  He graduated from Cornell 20 years ago.  Has 10 horses and therapeutic riding center.  Is concerned about horse owners lack of scientific knowledge and helps owners help their horses.  His talk is tailored to be given at the National Therapeutic Riding Convention.

Topics:    Feeding, pasture mgmt, manure mgmt 

Pasture mgmt:  Concerned with grasses, legumes, weeds.

Grass native to region:  orchard, june, timothy, rye, broom.  Legumes:  clover, red and white, alfalfa.  Weeds: dandelion,  quackgrass,  plantain (worst)   

To improve pasture:  Soil test every 3 years.  Then based on soil test, make applications.  Best way to apply lime is in fall to get worked in for spring.  In spring, disc ground.  Can get a small disc at Gander Mountain if you have no tractor.  Seed afterward.  You can get seeds that are same as what is growing in your pasture.  Production Services in Pine Island sells regular pasture mix.  Then pack ground (cultipacker or roller). 

Next step:  No overgrazing, will encourage presence of weeds.  Horses kill grass roots, then weeds take over.  Rule of thumb is 1 acre of pasture per horse, or a ¼ acre per horse per week.  Use pasture rotation to allow parts of pasture to regrow.  Mow pasture before you put horse back in a rested pasture.  Drag pasture while the horses are out to kill parasites.

Weeds - to control weeds:  Spray when the horses are out.  Crossbow is good herbicide (broadleaf herbicide).  Apply in spring before horses are turned out and in the fall.  Is not toxic to horses if allowed to dry before they are put back on pasture.  Crossbow can be bought at Tractor Supply.  24d is another herbicide.  Small spraying equip can be bought at Gander Mtn also.

Manure mgmt – done for  aesthetic reasons, to avoid nuisance issue, to address environmental concerns – leakage into ground water.  Collect, store, dispose.  To store and dispose: build a manure storage pad and have it taken away.  

To build a pad: Needs to be close to barn but accessible with tractor and big truck.  Should be higher than ground level on level ground with ramp up to it.  Concrete with pressure treated walls to hold manure.   16’x32x4’ high.  Manure production is ½ cubic yard per horse per week, rule of thumb.  Cost of pit is minimal, around $2000 - $1000 for wood and concrete, $1000 for labor.  Needs 2’x6’ framing around base, 4” concrete base,     back wall thicker for push wall.  Should be set up for ease of taking away and then people will come and get it for you.  Cover pit with tarp when weather is bad.

Container rolloffs are expensive and ugly but concept is the same.

Rules of feeding horse - for energy.  Components are protein, fat, carbohydrates.  Measured in mega calories.   Digestible energy = total energy – energy which comes out in manure.  Protein, fat, carbo are measured in grams.   IU for vitamins (international units).  Horses  should be fed with megacals and grams of feed they need in mind.  Dry matter intake is also important.   

Hay is foundation of every horse ration.  Feed and hay should be analyzed.  Digestible energy, dry matter intake, digestible energy is different for each horse.

Hay - grass, legume, or mixed.  Be careful switching hays on horses because horses will build a preference.  Bluegrass alfalfa is found to be preferred.  Evaluate hay qualitatively and quantitatively.  Green hay is best.   No dust or mold should be seen.  Texture – soft is better;  leafiness and color indicate quality.  Seed head maturity – relates to when cut.    Bloom stage is important in alfalfa.

Hay should be analyzed by a lab.  Ithica, NY, Dairy One Lab is one that does this.  Can get online and get the sacks for sampling hay.  Cooperative Ext has a hay corer to get a thorough sample.    

Lab report for hay - important factors:   ADF (acid detergent fiber) – a  lower number is better.   Cellulose in leaf and lignin value (lignin is not digestible, lower # is better).          Neutral Detergent Fiber,  hemi cellulose, cellulose and lignin are factors.  RFV (relative feed value), higher # is better.  CP - crude protein - higher # is better.   Prime quality hay has: CP >19, ADF <31, NDF<40, RFV >151.

Hay here is selenium deficient.     

Questions:

Is sulfur in water better?    Not known.

How much salt to give - give as much as wanted.

Crop Production Services - will come do spraying, planting, etc. – whatever your pasture needs.

OCHC meeting  11/16/06, Brick Church, Montgomery

Election of new officers.  Ballots counted by Audrey and Debbie Botbyle Dobbs

Attendance:  Laura Nauditt, Chip Watson, Deb Corr, Mark Gisselbrecht, Linda Meyer, Larry Menkins, Robin Demaio, June Evers, Debbie Shiraldi, Audrey Reith, Deb Botbyle, Patti Bowens, Genie Ryan, Carolyn Moran, Kathy Hamre, Colleen Segarra

40 of 67 mailed ballots came back.  The ballots were counted twice because of tight races.

Results are Patti Bowens - Corresponding Secretary, Kathy Hamre - Treasurer, Mark Gisselbrecht - Pres, Linda Meyer - VP, Laura Nauditt - Recording Secretary

Chip states NYSHC needs a letter to say who new officers are, and that old officers are no longer in office.  Patti will email George King.

Minutes from October meeting were read - motion to accept minutes for last meeting – accepted. 

Linda Meyer states there is $2653.63 in the Orange County Trust account.    ribbons for rotary show bill to come

Mark got signature cards for new signatures for the bank account, will fill out his part and forward to Laura to get her’s and Kathy’s signatures and info.

Patti Bowens states that the website is up and running; the last minutes are on it, voting and elections info are on it.   The cost for the website is $201.01 for 3 years.  The bill was presented by Patti.   She asked for notes and additions for the website.  Last newsletter posted is September’s, needs a new one to put on.   Please email any info for the website to Patti, pbowens@hvc.rr.com.  Patti has passwords but no one wants to know them.  Website has gotten 400 hits already.

Audrey explained the process by which she mailed out ballots and she paid for the postage, and will present bill.

New business:

Audrey - Gripe and Whine session, Brimstone Winery.  Snacks and wine, 11/28/06, 7 pm.   Audrey will send out directions and will post on website.  She may take a van for people who would like to ride.  Audrey was asked to take Horse Council applications to this event.

Audrey - DOT regulations:   Explanatory meeting  Gardiner town hall, across from police station, by fire hall, 7 pm, 12/6/06.  Doug Amey (sp?) from DOT will explain DOT regulations for hauling horses, weights, etc.  Audrey asked for questions to give to him before the meeting, so he can prep and so we can get all scenarios covered.

Audrey - Ag district meeting, in January, place and date TBA.

Audrey - Laminitis seminar at Lucky C in January, place and date TBA.

Audrey not happy with farm market newletter – said info on it was not what she asked to be included.

Linda - Sparc meeting last night; discussed farm map,  artist,  Linda Richichi, paintings that benefit Sparc.   www.lindarichichi.com   www.sparc.com

Refreshments provided by Genie.  Agreement for Genie to bring receipts to get reimbursed for refreshments.

Meeting next month – Audrey proposed nutrient management info session.  Meeting was voted down for December, will have next meeting in January.

Robin will man the table at the 4H auction.   Asked to have info to hand out, flyers etc.  Others welcome to participate also.

Motion to pay Patti for website – Patti has paid the bill already.  Motion passed.

Motion to pay bill for newsletter mailing in Sept – Motion to pay Linda, passed.

Motion to pay Chip for Hodges Badge Co for rotary show ribbons – Chip will submit bill  when ribbons are purchased.  Motion passed.  Chip said fewer were needed next year, since she has leftovers from this year.

Motion to pay Audrey for postage for ballot mailing – motion passed.

Laura got the key to mailbox from Linda Meyer.  

Discussion to get the other room at the Brick Church.  Linda to get key from Kari and will make duplicate key for us.  Genie will call the church also to see about how to get on the schedule.

Discussed standing committees:  public relations – Deb, education – June, membership – Patti Bowens ,  Debbie Shiraldi - communications,  Community Relations – Robin, Special Projects – Deb Botbyle , Social – Genie, Youth – left open for now.

Deb Corr brings up that each member should be the eyes and ears in their town to let the Council know when there are important events going on in the towns, etc.  Discussed the idea of each of us being town reps, going to town meetings, etc.

Next meeting is a social meeting, scheduled for 1/18/07;  preliminary plan is for each member to bring food.

Are going to look for seal – Deb Botbyle says she has a big bag of stuff that needs gone through

Deb Corr will look to see if we are a corporation.  Talked about 501c3 and getting that status

Chip mentions NYSHC meeting on 12/2    says we have to report on our activities   Mark Gisselbrecht says he will go, chip is going and Laura Nauditt will go

Minutes from OCHC meeting, 10/19/06, Brick Church 

In attendance:  Colleen Segarra, Chip Watson, June Evers, Linda Meyer, Laura Nauditt, Betsy Clark, Heidi White, Genie Ryan, Stan Dvoskin , Jack Diodato, Larry Minter (?)

Linda Meyer reports there is $2,663.31 in the OCHC account at Orange County Trust, and that she has the signature cards to add/change signature authority.

The proposed audit of the OCHC books was discussed, and a suggestion was made that instead of having an external audit done, that two or three members go over the books with those responsible for keeping them, and see if there is a consensus that everything is in order.  Members with accounting experience are available to check the figures.  Discussion centered on not spending several hundred dollars auditing less than $3,000.  Agreed to discuss this at November meeting.

Slate of nominees for the OCHC Board of Directors was presented:  President, Mark Gisselbrecht or Colleen Segarra; Vice-Pres, Deb Corr or Linda Meyer; Treasurer, Kathy Hamre; Corresponding Secretary, Patti Bowens; Recording Secretary, Laura Nauditt.  Volunteers for various committees were also announced.  Ballots for Board elections to be gotten out to members ASAP.

Members in attendance agreed to elect new officers and adopt new bylaws at the November meeting.  Members were asked to submit any proposed changes to the new bylaws to Laura Nauditt, email address: patchfan@frontiernet.net.  The new bylaws are available on the OCHC website.  Copies of old and new, proposed OCHC bylaws, and current NYSHC bylaws were distributed.

Chip Watson alerts members to the Orange County 4H benefit auction, to be held at the Goshen Harness Racing Historic track on December 10th.  JP North Equine Tack is the auctioneer.  Preview begins at noon; auction starts at 1:00 p.m.  There was discussion about trying to have an information table about OCHC at this auction, to stimulate interest and memberships.  Those at info table should have brochures, info about benefits of OCHC, etc. to be good advocates.

Chip also announced the continuation of the NYSHC sponsored State Fair Show program.  See Chip for more info.

501c3 status issue was raised and discussed again, with no conclusions.

Wine and Gripe session at the Brimstone Hill Winery on November 28th (?) was discussed.  Date, time and place to be verified and there was agreement to ask Patti Bowens to put the correct info on the OCHC site.

Mention made of old ‘Tripod’ website for OCHC – Colleen took action to go kill that website off, to avoid confusion for those searching for OCHC on the net.

Discussion about having Christmas/holiday party, inviting members and non-members, to try to generate interest in OCHC and as an outreach to horse people not currently members, or about possibly having a spring event of some kind.  There was discussion of trying to do a party/event in conjunction with other events, or having a separate St. Patrick’s themed event, possibly.