A Letter from your Chapter Chair

Amy Mezzy

It is a pleasure and honor to be writing my first CDS East Bay Chapter “Letter” to the membership. In two lightning-paced months your new 2010 Board of fifteen chapter members have hit the ground running. Crucial Board roles have been filled and committees have been formed.

Fifteen Board members, of which ten were elected and five appointed, is indeed a record for our chapter. The level of professionalism and expertise among our board members is unparalleled – finance and accounting professionals, business executives, non-profit managers, web designers, writers, sales experts, scientists and fundraisers have come together to lead the East Bay Chapter’s 550 member volunteer-run organization.

CDS East Bay is one of 40+ chapters in California, and the second largest chapter in the state, next to Los Angeles. In fact, CDS East Bay is one of the largest dressage-based “GMO” (Group Member Organizations) chapters in the country. In addition, our chapter boasts one of the largest numbers of Junior members in the state, making it fertile ground for producing the talented adult dressage stars of tomorrow.

We kick-off the year with our Annual Awards Dinner and Celebration, March 6, at the Bridges Golf Club in San Ramon. Less than a week away now, the sold-out event is always a chapter highlight. This year, we will be saying farewell and thank you to the 2009 Board, and welcoming in our new slate of officers. High Point awards will be presented to some of our most talented and fortunate amateurs and professionals. Equally important will be the opportunity to socialize, enjoy cocktails and hors d’oeurvres, bid in our impressive silent auction and enjoy informal dressage attire modeling by chapter Juniors.

Soon to follow the Annual Dinner will be our first two shows of the year, April 24 and 25, held at La Jolla Equestrian Center in Pleasanton. Robin Katherman, our chapter Vice-Chair and Shows Chair, has assembled an outstanding team of volunteers to ensure that these two rated CDS shows are a tremendous success. Check out our new, beautiful website for show updates and registration information.

Ideas for exciting, informative educational events and programs have been flooding in to the chapter. Our Education Committee has recently sent out an online survey to the membership so that we can design programs that will best suit our members needs. Please make sure your voice is heard by filling out the survey. Our bi-annual Western Sales Events have been scheduled. Mark your calendars and make your shopping lists for Saturday, May 15, and Saturday, November 13. These fun, social events draw an average of 80 members.

2010 promises to be an exciting year for our chapter. I welcome all new and returning members and invite you to be a part of our special community. Volunteer opportunities are abundant and you will be greatly appreciated for your contribution of time and talents. I tip my hat to you, our wonderful CDS EB chapter members. May the coming year bring you and your horses health and happiness.

Amy Mezey

CDS East Bay Chairperson