With 150 members in attendance, the Roman Palace in Newmarket, once again provided a perfect setting to award the year’s highest honours. As master of ceremonies, the familiar and much loved voice of Ken McLellan introduced the award winners. From custom made chaps, spurs, and spur straps to embroidered sheets, boot bags, garment bags, halters, belt buckles and trophies, the selection of awards was stunning.
Intermingled with the awards presentation, guests experienced the fun & entertainment of a live auction. When long-time sponsor and master silversmith, Tom Howe donated an exquisite custom designed show headstall to the club, we knew we had to do something special! Additionally, Gord & Penny Davey of Windy Ridge Farm donated a signed, limited edition framed print. And So – the fun began! In addition to Ken’s exceptional announcing skills - he is an accomplished auctioneer. With his expertise, the successful bidder of the print was OQHA past president Joe Jarvis at $135.00. Jennifer Campbell topped the bidding at $400 for Tom’s headstall. Not to be left out of the picture, the silent auction boasted 33 items ranging from Christmas Decorations, a weekend resort retreat, a professional equine portrait sitting and even a 2007 breeding to Jonathon Newnham’s stallion, The Principle Star. This fabulous fundraiser was a success due to the generosity of all guests who donated such awesome items! And with the organizational assistance of Val Love and Susan and Jennifer Campbell!' The silent auction raised a total of $1,200!
Most importantly, what a banquet is truly about is getting together with friends & family. Judging by the activity on the dance floor – the small fry crowd are going to be the wild ones of the future! Whether dancing or limboing – they were energy packed and dance hall champs! As for the line dancers of our club – well, I think we need to work on that - maybe Summerama 2007?
Also acknowledged in 2006, was a much quieter champion – yet absolutely essential to this club’s success. In memory of Linda Lambert, our Helping Hands award honours those members within our club who have gone that extra mile to make the show season a success. Normally one person is acknowledged by the executive, however, this year we received generous support from multiple members and we chose to honour all of them. A sincere and heartfelt thank you to: Shannon Cairncross-Griffin, Debbie Pereira, Corey Taylor, Bonnie and Peter Lawson and Elizabeth Willsey - your help in 2006 was exceptional and so much appreciated! Thanks from the entire executive.
A final note of thanks to all who came out to join our season closing event - it has been a pleasure and an honour to have served on the board this year. I look forward to seeing everyone at the AGM (January 14th). It is YOUR opportunity to help shape the club’s future and express your concerns and ideas. We would like to extend an open invitation to any member who would like to join the board of directors or step up and take an active role in our club. Although many board members have served multiple terms, accepting a position on the upcoming board does not mean a lifetime commitment! Join for a year or simply take on a specific task - we all need to contribute!!!
