While we can’t do anything about poison ivy, ticks, or unpleasant weather, we got the message about planning well in advance (including specifying the activities for each day). This summer’s workdays have been set (see below). In addition, we are introducing an “Adopt-a-Trail” program that will allow members—individually, by family, or in groups—to take responsibility for a specific trail. In addition to scheduled work days, “adopters” will also be able to coordinate with a master to improve their trail on their own schedule. 

May 20 – Coop building
June 24 – Trail maintenance
July 22 – Trail maintenance
August 26 – Trail maintenance
September 24 – Trail maintenance, clubhouse cleaning/organization

Based on existing conflicts in October, member responses, and after conferring with MVH, the masters have scheduled opening hunt for November 4. 

The majority of respondents with a preference chose 11am as our ride-off time. A few members commented on being flexible depending on weather. To optimize our hunting and comfort of hounds, horses, and riders, we will hunt at 10am at the first of the season (through November) and then switch to 11am during the colder months (starting in December).

75% of members responded no or no preference regarding Sunday hunts. As Sunday hunting presents challenges related to kennel staff, we will plan to have all hunt on Saturday this season.

There were a range of comments—positive and negative—regarding our additional fixtures. The most sigificant concerns were distance and staff unfamiliarity/difficulty getting around. Our alternate fixtures are important (especially when Easton isn’t available), and we will work on making them accessible and enjoyable for members.

Most respondents supported both live and silent auctions as well as 50/50 and spirits raffles. We have noted some of the concerns regarding the auctions and will choose this season’s fundraisers based on income generated and ease of execution.

Of those with a preference, more than half preferred a buffet dinner versus paying more for a served meal.

Only a few people felt a band was preferable to a DJ and/or worth additional cost.

Nearly an equal number of members responded “Yes” and “Didn’t understand how sponsorship worked”. (The other half of respondants answered no/no preference.) We will discuss this further and ensure, if we do it again, that it is clear what sponsorship means.

Nearly 75% of respondents chose this option.

Thank you to those respondents who offered additional comments. We will be reviewing and discussing the comments related to criteria for awarding hunt colors, number/type of hunt activities, the future of our primary hunt fixture, and the format of the “8EZ” lessons. 

In regards to the wash rack in honor of Karen Hayes, all of the money donated to LFA will be used to install a wash rack area. LFA is in the process of organizing this project.

Regarding FLH meetings, per our by-laws, members are encouraged to attend all annual or other membership meetings. Master’s meetings are atteneded only by masters. However, we will be disseminating recaps of master’s meetings to foster transparency and keep the membership informed on what is being discussed/planned.