The year 2011 is drawing to a close and very soon families will be gathering, eggnog will be flowing, the tree will be up and all the lights and festivities of the season will begin. It is also a time to reflect on the year we are leaving behind and the year that lies ahead.
When I look back on the year 2011, we as a club have had successes, not too many challenges and many reasons to be looking forward to the year 2012. We hosted six CTR’s and one Pleasure Ride, we had two new Ride Managers (Kerri-Lynne Wilson & Nancy Gourlay) and two new Ride Sites (Morningstar - Parksville & Sunset - Kelowna). We raised over $800 with 50/50 draws and raffles and we hosted a very successful Equine Educational Series in the Spring. We had a moderately attended AGM and once again we had a booth at the Mane Event in Chilliwack. Areas we can improve on are, educational and social events and your new Executive is already working on those issues and others to make the year 2012 a success.
We also lost some of our loved ones this past year, both human and furry. My heart goes out to anyone who has suffered such a loss. I like many lost one of my precious “fur friends” this past year and although it cannot be on the same scale as losing a human friend or partner, it is a loss. My personal hope is that year 2012 will be a shinier year for all of us, one that treats us very well.
On a happier note, I am very excited that Joanne Schneider and Jo Hull-Sykes have stepped up to the position of Event Co-ordinators. I know these fine ladies will source out many opportunities for us to promote and showcase our club and our sport throughout the province. We have returning Directors and some new faces to the board and I look forward to their fresh ideas and enthusiasm as we move forward in 2012. At this time I would like to thank those that are leaving our board Mary Carr, Kerri-Lynne Wilson and Karen Eigler, all of who have contributed many years service. We will miss them on our monthly conference calls but look forward to seeing them on the trail, managing rides or at social events.
As we start a new year, I have asked all our board members to give a short bio about their lives as a way of introducing themselves. Also, so you as members can come to know us and understand we are here to represent you, our members, and reiterate that your involvement in our club is critical to its success!
As I look forward to the year 2012, I have decided the song by Johnny Reid “Today I’m gonna change the world” will become my new mantra, if you have never heard the song I encourage you to listen, the words are inspirational and I especially like the bagpipes must be my curling background! From my home to yours, I wish all the best to you and your family during the holiday season and into the New Year.
