PSDC General Membership Meeting Notes - May 20, 2023

PSDC Spring 2023 General Membership Meeting

Comfort Inn

Denver, PA

Saturday, May 20, 2023

Submitted by-Secretary-Carolyn McKenrick

General Membership Report

1. Call to Order:  President-Christina Gates called the meeting to order at 1:00 PM.

2. Secretary Report: Secretary- Carolyn McKenrick emailed the minutes from the General Membership Meeting held October 8, 2022, in Richfield Springs, NY to the PSDC Membership. A motion was made by BOD-Laurie Stone to accept the minutes as they were presented. Vice-President-Rich Stanaitis seconded the motion. The motion passed.

3. Treasurer Report: Treasurer- Donna Quante reported that the club treasuries are doing very well as of this date the PSDC Accounts total $16,743. She reported all events this past season made a profit. A motion was made by Elaine Bartholomew to accept the Treasurers report as presented. Meredith Michener seconded the motion. The motion passed.

4. Committee Reports

   • ISDRA Report: As Region 5 director Christina Gates will be traveling to and participating in the annual Conference June 9-11 in Ohio hosted by the Ohio Trailbreakers. Please contact Chris Seminatore with any questions. There are many new faces to ISDRA and many upcoming changes. PSDC BOD has agreed to sponsor the ISDRA medals for the 6-dog rig class; PSDC BOD has agreed to be a wheel dog level sponsor to the Ohio Trailbreakers for the 2023 ISDRA convention in Ohio. Meredith Michener is the new Executive Director. She has a list of items to start working on such as a outline of items for RGO’s to follow when planning events, she plans on working with Jr. Mushers to build a larger presence, & increase ISDRA’s presence on social media.  She also gave an update of the new Web Site and stated it will be up & running at the ISDRA Conference. 

   • IFSS Report:  Anna Marmann:  the annual council meeting is in Sweden May 19-20; Anna will attend online and give us a report to share at the summer meeting.

   • Social Media: Donna Quante will be stepping down from this position and the club is in need of a new volunteer, the BOD would like to thank Donna at this time for her years of service in this position. Donna reported that the facebook page is getting lots of hits and has interest of many people.

• Website: Jessica Kizmann reports that information has been provided in a timely manner and she has had no issues managing the website

• USFSS: Ron Klepadlo reports a meeting is forthcoming, moving forward to host 2025 WC, some discussion with IFSS. Applications are open for the fall location TBD. Early accreditation will be forthcoming for free.

5. Old Business

• 2022-2023 Events in Review

1. Fall Camp Out and Meeting: Steve Davis reported that he had a pretty good turnout for this event. Training, leapfrog training, membership meeting, & a turkey dinner rounded out the evening.

2. North East Dryland Challenge: Ron Klepadlo reported that because of over a foot of snow this event was canceled.

3. Fall Jersey Devil: Meredith Michener reported a good turnout, mushers from many different states were on hand and people had a good racing experience. 

4. Spring Jersey Devil:  Meredith Michener reported this event was very successful too with a good turnout. 

5. Frost Mountain: Alice Fitzgerald reported this event had a good turnout.

6. Tug Hill: Ron Klepadlo reported because of lack of snow and icy conditions this event was canceled.

6. New Business

• Upcoming 2023-2024 Events (a reminder to all organizers that proposals for your event(s) are needed by the BOD for approval.

• 2023 Spring Meeting Denver PA: Donna Quante (Donna will be stepping down from the organizer position for this annual event, we need a volunteer moving forward. Donna has already secured the Denver Room at the Comfort Inn in Denver, PA, for May 4, 2024. The BOD would like to take this opportunity to thank Donna for her years of service in organizing this event along with Nancy Molburg).

• 2023 Summer Camp Out and Meeting: Liz Stanaitis reports Twin Streams Campground Morris PA, July 21-23. Gag awards have been postponed from the Spring meeting will be done at the Summer Camp Out. BBQ Chicken, drag races, breakfast both days and a guest speaker will be on the agenda.

• NE Trade Fair Sept. 29-30 and Oct. 1: the BOD had voted to purchase a half table display to promote the PSDC, it will list our races and non-race events for the upcoming season.

• 2023 Fall Camp Out and Meeting: Richfield Springs NY October 6-8, Steve Davis has agreed to host again, Christina Gates will organize

• 2023 North East Dryland November 18-19, Ron Klepadlo

• 2023 Fall Jersey Devil: Meredith Michener Dec. 2-3

• 2024 Spring Jersey Devil: Meredith Michener: Park will not commit to a date at this point

• 2024 Frost Mountain, Brownfield Maine: Alice Fitzgerald: Jan 20-21, as long as snow cooperates. This will be an unsanctioned race meant to be fun and open to all levels of competitors. The race will take place along snowmobile trails that are though the woods.  Classes that we intend to offer are 6 Dog Sled, 4 Dog Sled, 2 Dog Sled, Men’s, and Women's Canicross, Skijoring, Novice, and Junior. Further information will be available closer to race season. Anyone interested in helping with the race can contact Alice Fitzgerald at afitzgerald476@gmail.com

• 2024 Tug Hill Challenge:  Ron Klepadlo:  Jan 27-28, and Feb 24-25 as a no snow date

• Proposed 2023-2024 Schedule of Events –vote needed by the general membership to accept the above proposed calendar for this coming season. A motion was made by BOD-Laurie Stone to accept the proposed event schedule as presented. The motion was seconded by Steve Davis. Motion passed.

• New Events:  There are currently no new events proposed for the 2023-2024 race season. WFRA will be holding a Fat Tire Bike Raffle, the PSDC will help to support the raffle by selling tickets. Look for more info to come out about this.  

• Approval of Race Entry Fees –vote needed by the general membership to accept the current PSDC base race fees (Current Race Entry Fees have been presented to the PSDC Membership). A motion to keep the Race Entry Fees as they have been presented with no changes, was made by Vice-President-Rich Stanaitis and seconded by Treasurer-Donna Quante. The motion passed.

• Discussion regarding the election process and eligibility of voters was discussed by the General Membership. No decision was made at this time to make any changes and it was decided to discuss this at the next General Membership Meeting to get more feedback. 

• Elections:  the election shall be determined by those present and voting (at the Spring Membership Meeting) including absentee ballots. The votes cast will be for the predetermined slate plus any nominations from the floor. Nominations from the floor will be accepted until immediately before the balloting for that office.

1. Vice President: Rich Stanaitis: The floor was open for nominations for Vice-President. No nominations were presented. A motion to close nominations was made by BOD-Laurie Stone and seconded by Elaine Bartholomew. The motion passed. Secretary-Carolyn McKenrick cast a single vote per PSDC by-law protocol. 

2. Secretary: Melissa Armstrong: The floor was open for nominations for Secretary. No nominations were presented. A motion to close nominations was made by Johnn Molburg and seconded by Treasurer-Donna Quante. The motion passed. Secretary-Carolyn McKenrick cast a single vote per PSDC by-law protocol. 

3. Board of Directors (3 open seats)

• Tabetha Kopta

• Alice Fitzgerald

• Wendy Tarlow

• Johnn Molburg

• The floor was open for nominations for Board of Directors. No nominations were presented. A motion was made to close nominations by BOD-Laurie Stone and seconded by V.P.-Rich Stanaitis. The motion passed. The membership then voted and the total votes including absentee ballots are as follow: Alice Fitzgerald – 8 votes, Tabetha Kopta – 14 votes, Johnn Molburg – 15 votes, & Wendy Tarlow – 14 votes.

• The PSDC welcomes new Board Members starting June 1, 2023: V.P.-Rich Stanaitis, Secretary-Melissa Armstrong, BOD-Tabetha Kopta, Wendy Tarlow, & Johnn Molburg.

4.  The PSDC Membership wishes to thank all outgoing Board Members for their work & many years of service:  Carolyn McKenrick, Mary Beth Logue, Insa Robinson, & Alice Fitzgerald.

5.  A motion was made by Meredith Michener to approve the new PSDC Board, seconded by V.P.-Rich Stanaitis. The motion passed.  The 2023-2024 PSDC Board: President-Christina Gates, Vice-President-Rich Stanaitis, Secretary-Melissa Armstrong, Treasurer-Donna Quante, BOD-Laurie Stone, Ron Klepadlo, Tabetha Kopta, Johnn Molburg, & Wendy Tarlow.  Next year’s Elections will include President, Treasurer, & 2 BOD (Laurie Stone & Ron Klepadlo).  

6. Results of voting on By-Law Changes relayed to the General Membership - 9 votes to accept all changes & 7 - votes to reject the changes. President-Christina Gates declares that all changes to the By-Laws presented to the general membership are approved to be changed.  

• Audit Committee –President-Christina Gates requested 2 volunteers to be on the audit committee (these volunteers will receive all treasury information from the treasurer and perform an audit on that information). Melissa Armstrong & Cindy Coolbaugh volunteered.

• shall audit the Club financial records for that current fiscal year and report the results to the Executive Board early in the first quarter of subsequent fiscal year.

• For The Good of the Club: I have a nice “Thinking of You” card for Diane Geitzenauer for anyone who would like to sign it. She loves cards if anyone would like to send something cheery, please feel free: Diane Geitzenauer c/o Whitehall Manor, 1177 6th Street, Room A17, Whitehall, PA, 18052

• Congratulations to all PSDC - ISDRA Medal Winners: 6-Dog Rig- Silver Medal-Tabetha Kopta, 4-dog RB-Gold & Men’s Canicross-Silver-Ron Klepadlo, 1-Dog Scooter-Gold, 2-dog Scooter-Silver & 2-dog Bikejoring-Bronze-Insa Robinson, 1-dog Scooter-Silver-Meredith Michener. 

•  Adjournment- A motion to Adjourn was made by Meredith Michener and seconded by Dave Coolbaugh. Motion passed. Adjournment at 2:38 PM.                          

PSDC Board Meeting Notes - May 11, 2023

PSDC BOD Spring 2023 Meeting Report

Via Zoom 7PM

Thursday, May 11, 2023

Submitted by Secretary-Carolyn McKenrick

1. Call to Order: President-Christina Gates called the meeting to order at 7:07 PM.

Members Present: President-Christina Gates, Vice-President-Rich Stanaitis, Secretary-Carolyn McKenrick, Treasurer-Donna Quante, BOD-Insa Robinson, Mary Beth Logue, Alice Fitzgerald, Laurie Stone, & Ron Klepadlo.

2. Secretary Report: The minutes from the January 12, 2023 & March 9, 2023 Board zoom meetings were sent out by email to all Board members. A motion was made by Treasurer-Donna Quante to accept the minutes from those two meetings. Vice-President-Rich Stanaitis seconded the motion, the motion passed.

3. Treasurer Report: Treasurer-Donna Quante reported that the PSDC Checking Account Balance- $3316.14, Savings Account Balance-$8136.51, Money Market-$4657.76, Paypal-$103.71 giving us a total of $16,214.12. BOD-Laurie Stone made a motion to accept the Treasurer Report as it has been presented. BOD-Alice Fitzgerald seconded the motion. The motion passed.

4. Committee Reports-

         a. Election Committee: Secretary-Carolyn McKenrick reported the candidates running    for Election are: Vice-President-Rich Stanaitis, Secretary-Melissa Armstrong, BOD-Alice Fitzgerald, Tabetha Kopta, Johnn Molburg, & Wendy Tarlow, as of this meeting.

                 b. Social Media Coordinator-Donna Quante reported the facebook page is running very well and getting lots of hits. Donna also reported that with the duties of Treasurer she feels she can no longer manage the Social Media Coordinator responsibilities too. The Club will need to look for a new Social Media Coordinator.

c. Club Website: Jessica Kizmann reports that information has been provided in a timely manner and she has had no issues managing the website.

d. ISDRA report: President-Christina Gates reported the conference in Ohio 6/9-6/11 will be hosted by the Trailbreakers Sled Dog Club. Contact Chris Seminatore with any questions, register soon. Looks like many interesting speakers, check out new appointments. Meredith Michener as ED & Abby Heisted as an At Large Director, Brittnay Colbath as Animal Welfare; Website launch will be at the conference. Chris Seminatore would like to know if PSDC would like to sponsor the convention or do we want to do a medal class sponsorship as in the past. Or both? The Board will give these items some thought and decide later. 

e. IFSS report: Anna Marmann: the annual council meeting is in Sweden May 19-20, Anna will attend online and give us a report to share at the Summer Meeting.

f. USFSS report BOD-Ron Klepadlo reported a meeting is forthcoming, moving forward to host 2025 WC, some discussion with IFSS. Applications are open for the Fall Location TBD. Early accreditation will be forthcoming for free.

5. Events

a. 2023 Spring Meeting, Denver, Pa, May 20: Treasurer-Donna Quante & Nancy Molburg co-organizers reported that lunch will be provided by Panera Bread & the Guest Speaker is Steven Davis. Treasurer-Donna Quante asks that the club look to replace her as a co-organizer due to time restrains.

b. 2023 Summer Campout and Meeting, Twin Streams Campground, Morris, Pa, July 21-23, Ron Klepadlo will do the registration, Melissa Armstong is co-organizing with Liz Stanaitis. Currently they are looking for a guest speaker, BBQ Chicken, Breakfast both days, a bon fire, drag races and much more.

c. 2023 Fall Campout & Meeting, Richfield Springs, NY, October 6-8. Steve Davis has agreed to host again. President-Christina Gates will be the organizer for this event. 

d. 2023 North East Dryland , November 18-19, Ron would like to begin the application process with the borough. He would like to apply for ISDRA sanction again as well as IFSS accreditation. A motion was made by BOD-Laurie Stone, to begin the application process for this event.  Seconded by V-P-Rich Stanaitis, motion passed.

e. 2023 Fall Jersey Devil: Meredith & Insa (see Proposal) Dec 2-3. A motion was made to reimburse Meredith Michener the $50 for the trail reports noting that the club would like to take a different path going forward. The motion was made by BOD-Laurie Stone, seconded by V-P-Rich Stanaitis. Motion passed.

f. 2024 Spring Jersey Devil: Meredith and Insa will not commit to a date at this point.

g. 2024 Frost Mountain: BOD-Alice Fitzgerald presented dates for this event. January 20-21, 2024.

h. 2024 Tug Hill Challenge: TRP needs to be applied for through NYS DEC… ASAP Possible switch of dates due to snow and scheduling for WFRA 2024. Ron as organizer, open dates for WFRA Jan 13-14, Feb 3-4, & Feb 24-25. A motion was made by V-P-Rich Stanaitis to accept the date of Jan 13-14 as the race date and the snow date of February 24-25, 2024. Seconded by BOD-Laurie Stone, motion passed.

6. New Business

a. Proposed 2023-2024 tentative Event Schedule; A motion was made by Treasurer-Donna Quante to accept the tentative schedule presented to the Board. BOD-Laurie Stone seconded the motion. The motion passed.

b. Proposed 2023-2024 Entry Fees; A motion was made by V-P-Rich Stanaitis to approve the entry fees as they are presented to the Board to remain the same. BOD-Laurie Stone seconded the motion. The motion passed. 

c. A discussion regarding the election process and eligibility of absentee voters was held. Should we consider changes to the current policy? This would need to go through the amendment process as stated in the by-laws. We also discussed expanding the General Membeship Meetings Virtually; this has been tabled for now.

D. Sept 29-30 and Oct 1st NE Trade Fair: Nancy Molburg sent a message about advertising opportunity for the PSDC. A motion was made by V-P-Rich Stanaitis to rent a table at the NE Trade Fair, seconded by Treasurer-Donna Quante. Motion passed.

7. Old Business

a. Review of Byte registration process; a discussion was held to get feedback on the Byte process. BOD-Ron Klepadlo explained how it works. All feedback was favorable for keeping Byte as our registration process.

8. For the good of the club; BOD-Insa Robinson stated it has been a pleasure working with the Board and thanked everyone for their commitment to the PSDC. Everyone thanked Insa Robinson, Mary Beth Logue & Carolyn McKenrick for all their hard work and for all they have done for the club.

9. Adjournment- A motin was made by BOD-Laurie Stone to adjourn, seconded by Treasurer-Donna Quante. Meeting Adjourned at 9:38pm.* 

* BOD-Insa Robinson made a motion to sponsor the 6-dog Rig Class ISDRA medals at a total of $140. BOD-Laurie Stone seconded the motion. The motion passed. 

* BOD-Insa Robinson made a motion to sponsor the Trailbreakers of Ohio for hosting the ISDRA Conference with the Wheel Dog Sponsorship of $125. BOD-Mary Beth Logue seconded the motion. The motion passed. 

These last two Board Approvals were done through email.

PSDC General Membership Meeting Notes - October 8, 2022

PSDC Fall 2022 General Membership Meeting

Richfield Springs, NY

Saturday, October 8, 2022

Submitted by Secretary-Carolyn McKenrick

1. Call to Order: President-Christina Gates called the meeting to order at 12:28 PM.

2. Secretary Report: Secretary-Carolyn McKenrick reported nothing new to report at this time. A motion was made by BOD-Laurie Stone to accept the Secretary’s Report as it was presented from the PSDC Spring Meeting in Denver, Pa., May 21, 2022.  The Report was sent out via email to all members. Vice-President-Rich Stanaitis seconded the motion. The motion passed.

3. Treasurer Report: Treasurer-Donna Quante reported the PSDC Savings Account Balance currently-$6160.29, the PSDC Checking Account Balance-currently-$5925.88, & the PSDC PayPal Account-$448.07. A motion was made by Vice-President-Rich Stanaitis to accept the Treasurer Report as it was presented. -Meredith Michener seconded the motion. The motion passed.

4. Committee:

A. Social Media Coordinator-Treasurer-Donna Quante reported that the Facebook page has receiving lots of hits and encourages people to send articles and photos to her or BOD-Insa Robinson to post on Facebook.

B. Website-Jessica Kizmann reported the web page is working smoothly and she answered questions about how the calendar on the web page worked.  

C. ISDRA Report-President-Christina Gates who is currently the ISDRA Regional Director & Meredith Michener-ISDRA Director at Large discussed what the advantage is to belong to ISDRA. They were asking for ideas how to improve ISDRA to make it more members friendly. They also explained the ISDRA web page is currently being updated by the ISDRA stakeholders’ group and are meeting every two weeks to give updates.

D. USFSS-BOD-Ron Klepadlo-Ron is the current PSDC-Represenitive for the USFSS. The Snow World Championships will be held in France. Snow race applications for IFSS accreditation are due by November 1st. The deadline is to allow for January races to apply for accreditation and not face late application fees from IFSS. This information is planned to be shared on Friday 9/30.

5. Events:

A. 2022 Summer Camp Out, July 22-24, 2022- Event organizer-Liz Stanaitis gave a review of the event. Liz reported the weather was great, the guest speakers, Natalie & Andre van der Merwe of Snowdrift Siberians gave a very informative presentation on “From Africa to the Iditarod”. Rich made his famous BBQ Chicken, Calcutta & drag races were just some of the fun events on the agenda. She also thanked everyone who helped put the event on.

B. 2022 Fall Camp Out and training, October 7-9, 2022, Richfield Springs, NY- the upcoming training session will have camping available, planned meals and boot camp style training. Organizers-Gates/Stanaitis/Robinson/Klepadlo.

C. Eaton Reservoir Dryland Race, November 19 & 20, 2022- Organizer-BOD-Ron Klepadlo reported he has been working with the local council to go over all the details of this event. On site camping will be available. Look for more details on the PSDC face book page coming soon.

D. Jersey Devil Dryland Challenge I, December 3 & 4, 2022-Organizers Meredith Michener & BOD- Insa Robinson. Location is Mt. Misery, NJ. The “We Love to run class” will be 1.7 miles on Saturday. Dog limit for campsites has been lifted and we have a section reserved just for mushers. Meredith & Insa have been working hard raising purse money. 

E. Frost Mountain Sled Dog Race-January 21 & 22, 2023, Brownfield, ME. Race Organizer-BOD-Alice Fitzgerald reported this event will be co-hosted by PSDC & Maine Highlands Sled Dog Club. This event is a non-sanction event following ISDRA rules with a purse & awards. 

F. Tug Hill Challenge, February 18-19, 2023, race organizer-BOD-Ron Klepadlo gave an update on this event. They may eliminate the 8-dog class and move to an Open Class.  WFRA Musher Liaison, Barb Hartman, gave an update on the trails that are currently being upgraded. These trails will help eliminate head on passing at this event.

G. Jersey Devil Dryland Challenge II, March 11-12, 2023, Mt. Misery, NJ. Race organizers Meredith Michener & BOD-Insa Robinson gave updates and will finalize all classes after the 1st event and adjust if needed.

H. 2023 Spring Meeting, May 19-21, 2023, Comfort Inn in Denver, Pa. Organizer-Treasurer-Donna Quante has secured a date and reserved a room for the PSDC Spring Meeting & Awards Banquet.

I. 2023 Summer Camp out, July 21-23, 2023, Twin Streams Campground, Morris, Pa.  Organizer-Liz Stanaitis is asking for help to organize this event anyone interested in Co-organizing this event contact Liz.

6. New Business:

A. PayPal fees- A discussion was held noting the fees that are taken when members pay by PayPal. 

1. Members are encouraged to print and send all membership forms and money to Treasurer-Donna Quante. She needs a signed copy of all members for insurance purposes.

B. Mary Beth Logue has offered to update Sled Dog Central with all PSDC events. Thank You, Mary Beth Logue.

7. Old Business:

A. A Discussion was held on the use of Byte for event registration. As we proceed through the race season the club will assess how well Byte is working.

8. Election Committee:

A. President-Christina Gates asks for two volunteers to serve on the Election Committee along with Secretary-Carolyn Mckenrick. BOD-Laurie Stone & Insa Robinson volunteered for the Election Committee.

B. President-Christina Gates ask that all Committee members review the Election Committee Responsibilities.

C. All those voting members present must sign in today, to request an absentee ballot for voting at the spring election, if you will not be present at the spring meeting.

D. Positions up for Election at the Spring Meeting. Vice-President, Secretary, & three Board of Directors.  Those positions are currently held by, V.P.-Rich Stanaitis, Secretary-Carolyn McKenrick, & 3 BOD-Mary Beth Logue, Insa Robinson & Alice Fitzgerald.

9. Officials and Officers Pay Schedule- At this time the PSDC Board approved that no changes were need to the Officials & Officers Pay Schedule.

10. For the good of the club-

A. Thank You to BOD-Ron Klepadlo for all the work you did setting up Byte Registration for the Fall Campout.

B. Thank You to Melissa Armstrong for paying it forward by donating and presenting the “Rookie of the Year” Award to Wendy Tarlow for all her help with the upcoming NJ Events.

C. The meeting ended with everyone introducing themselves and telling something about themselves. This is a great way to meet new members. 

11. Adjournment- A motion was made by BOD-Laurie Stone, to adjourn the meeting. Seconded by Vice-President-Rich Stanaitis. Meeting Adjourned at 2:34 PM.   

PSDC Board Meeting Notes - October 5, 2022

PSDC FALL BOARD MEETING

OCTOBER 5, 2022, via Zoom

Submitted by Secretary-Carolyn Mckenrick

1. Call to Order: President-Christina Gates called the meeting to order at 7:09 PM.

Members Present: President-Christina Gates, Vice-President-Rich Stanaitis, Secretary-Carolyn McKenrick, Treasurer-Donna Quante, BOD-Laurie Stone, Mary Beth Logue, Insa Robinson, Alice Fitzgerald, & Ron Klepadlo.

2. Secretary’s Report: Secretary-Carolyn McKenrick presented the minutes from our last two Board Meetings. Those minutes were sent out via email to all Board Members & to the Membership.

A.  A motion was made by President-Christina Gates to accept the minutes from the July 22, 2022, PSDC Board Meeting held at Twin Streams Campground, in Morris, Pa. as they were presented. Treasurer-Donna Quante seconded the motion. The motion Passed.

B. A motion was made by BOD-Laurie Stone to accept the minutes from the Zoom Board Meeting on September 7, 2022, as presented.  The motion was seconded by Treasurer-Donna Quante. The motion passed.

3. Treasurer’s Report: Treasurer-Donna Quante presented the Account Balances that were up to date as of this meeting.  The Checking Account-$5925.88, the Savings Account-$6160.29, and the PayPal Account-$448.07. A motion was made by BOD-Alice Fitzgerald to accept the Treasurer’s Report as it was presented. The motion was seconded by BOD-Ron Klepadlo. The motion passed. 

Treasurer-Donna Quante gave us an update of The PSDC Financial Policy that are written in our by-laws. She asks that all event organizers read and try to follow this policy. This will help her keep the money and club financial information more organized for future audits.

4. Committees:

A. Social Media Coordinator: Treasurer-Donna Quante reported she has been working with the web master to keep the facebook page and web page up to date. A discussion was held on how to improve our process of renewing memberships online. Our insurance requires all members must physically sign a membership renewal form. With no way to electronically sign the form online all members must print out their form, sign it, and mail it to Treasurer-Donna Quante. 

 B. Club Website: Jessica Kizmann is doing a great job managing the web site and working with Treasurer-Donna Quante.

C. ISDRA Report: President-Christina Gates, our ISDRA Director reported sanctioned races are being added often to the ISDRA web site. The ISDRA stakeholders’ group is meeting regularly (every 2 weeks) to continue their work on developing a new ISDRA website that will be more accessible on mobile devices and offers the user more resources for their membership. This is expected to be up and running in December. Both Margaret Harvey (Executive Director) & Dave Steele (technical director) will be retiring; these positions will need to be filled.

D. USFSS: BOD-Ron Klepadlo our IFSS representative, reported snow race applications for IFSS are due by November 1, 2022. The early deadline is to allow for January races to apply for accreditation and not face late application fees from IFSS.

5. Events:

A. 2022 Summer Camp out, Twin Streams Campground, Morris, Pa. July 22-24. President-Christina Gates reported for Liz Stanaitis that the campout had a good turnout, all the events went well. The guest speakers, Natalie & Andre van der Merwe of Snowdrift Siberians gave a very informative presentation on “From Africa to the Iditarod.” Liz would like to thank all the volunteers who helped at the campout. A fun time was had by all. Liz also reported the registration was very difficult to deal with and needs to be improved. The Board discussed the communication of how we compensate our speakers. This needs to be presented to the Board before presenting it to future guest speakers, so everyone is on the same page.

B. Fall Campout & Training will be held at Steven Davis’s Residents in Richfield Springs, NY, October 7-9, 2022. Co-organizers are Gates/Stanaitis/Robinson/Klepadlo. The event is coming together, meals are planned, and the agenda for the weekend will be coming out very shortly. A a good turnout is expected, and fun to be had by all. 

C. Howard Eaton Reservoir Dryland Race- Organizer-BOD-Ron Klepadlo reported he has been working with the local council to iron out the details of this event. This event is planned for November 19 & 20, 2022. Keep checking our Facebook and website for more information. There is a possibility of onsite camping, he is just waiting to get approval for that. As soon as he firms up his race official list the Board will move on approval. Ron will transport the bibs to his race and get them to the Ohio-Lodi race where Meredith Michener will transport them back for her race in NJ. The Bibs are being rented to the Ohio Trailbreakers for $1.00 to be used for their race November 26-27.

D. Jersey Devil Dryland Challenge I- Pine Barrens, N. J., December 3 & 4, 2023. Organizers- Meredith Michener & BOD-Ins Robinson are working very hard to increase their purse money. They will be brining many items to sell and chance off at the Fall Campout this coming weekend. Meredith is working with the park service to waiver the 2-dog limit for camping. Campers must send a copy of your dog’s rabies certificates to the park office prior to camping. Meredith & Insa are making up banners with the sponsors names. They want this to turn into a premiere event. This is event 1 of two events planned for this location. If anyone has ever been to the Pine Barrens, these trails are awesome.   

E. Frost Mountain Snow Race-Brownfield, Maine, January 21 & 22, 2023. Organizer- BOD-Alice Fitzgerald presented to the Board the Race Proposal & Officials List. Classes offered are Pro, Registered Breed, & Sportsman - 6-dog class-6.2 miles, 4-dog class - 4.2 miles, 2-dog class - 1.9 miles, Fat Bike class-2-dog - 1.9 miles, Canicross 1 & 2-dog adult male & female - 4.2 miles, novice 2-dog - 1.9 miles, & Junior 2 or 3-dog sled - 1.9 miles.  This event will be hosted by PSDC & the Maine Highlands Sled Dog Club. The event will not be ISDRA sanctioned but will follow ISDRA race rules. It will be run as a fun event with pay outs for classes. BOD-Alice Fitzgerald also presented her Official’s List. Treasurer-Donna Quante made a motion to accept the above Race Proposal & Officials List as it was presented. BOD-Mary Beth Logue seconded the motion. The motion passed.  

F. Tug Hill Challenge Sled Dog Race-February 18 & 19, 2023. Race Organizer-BOD-Ron Klepadlo reported to the Board he is working on raising purse money and he is also working with local people on the upcoming trail updates.

1. For the time being we tabled the motion to approve his Official’s list.

2. Barb (WFRA Musher Liaison) will be attending the Fall Campout.

3. Discussions regarding new trails at Tug Hill and usage based upon completion of these trails may determine which trails will be used for the race.

4. Bibs will be sorted and taken to the Spring Event. 

G. Spring Jersey Devil Dryland Challenge II- March 11 & 12, 2023. Organizers- Meredith Michener & Insa Robinson are working very hard to make this great event as well. Fund raising efforts will be for both events.

H. 2023 Spring Meeting & Awards-Organizer-Treasurer-Donna Quante reported she is working to get a date for this event. She has not heard back from the motel at this time. She will pass along any info as soon as she secures a date.

I. 2023 Summer Campout-Twin Streams Campground in Morris, Pa. July 21-23, 2023. Organizer-Liz Stanaitis reported she will co organize, BOD-Ron Klepadlo said he would handle the registration for this event.

6. New Business:

A. Proposal from Amy Cochrane-Fallbrook Farms- a proposal was emailed to the Board. Until the Board has time to look at the proposal and discuss it, no decision has been made. It looks like it has great potential for future events.

B. A discussion was held on PayPal fees. PayPal takes fees out of all monetary transactions and the Board held a discussion on whether we want to continue to use PayPal. 

C. Updates to Sled Dog Central: Treasurer-Donna Quante ask if someone could take over listing our events on Sled Dog Central due to very slow internet service at her home. BOD - Mary Beth Logue said she would take over this task. Thanks to both for your work on this.

D. Refunding for non-race events- A discussion was held on updates that are needed to our Policy & Procedures to put in place a clause for persons requesting to cancel before registration closes. We would refund camping & meal fees for the non-race event, but not membership fees or Byte fees. If the person request to cancel after the registration close date and we are in a similar venue such as a non-race event the non-refundable fee would include pre-paid meals as the food is purchased (or finalized for purchase), membership fees & Byte fees. 

E. Sponsorship-The PSDC would like to Thank Rob & Mary Downey/Annamaet Pet Foods for their continued support of PSDC races & events. A motion was made by President-Christina Gates to divide the donation evenly between all race events. Vice-President-Rich Stanaitis seconded the motion. The motion Passed. 

7. Old Business:

A. SHCA Sponsorship Agreement: President-Christina Gates reported that she still has some questions to work out with this agreement until then the Board has not signed the agreement.

B. Event Registration process using Byte: The Board reviewed and discussed how Byte works. The Board also discussed procedures for using Byte. BOD-Ron Klepadlo seems to be the most knowledgeable about the process. Everyone felt this is what they will use for their events.

8.  PSDC Officials Pay Schedule- The Pay Schedule was presented and discussed. The Board felt that at this time no changes were needed. A motion was made by Vice-President-Rich Stanaitis to accept the PSDC Officials Pay Schedule as it was presented with no changes being made. BOD-Mary Beth Logue seconded the motion. The motion Passed.

9. For the Good of the Club: 

A. Thank you so much to Ron Klepadlo for your work setting up Byte registration and explaining how it works.

B. “Rookie of the Year”- BOD-Insa Robinson made a motion for “Rookie of the Year” to be presented to Wendy Tarlow for her help with the two N.J. race events. Presenting this year’s Award will be Melissa Armstrong. This is Melissa’s way of paying it forward. 

10. Adjournment: A motion was made by Treasurer-Donna Quante to adjourn the meeting. Seconded by BOD-Ron Klepadlo. The meeting adjourned at 9:15 PM.

PSDC Board Meeting Notes - September 7, 2022

PSDC BOARD MEETING

VIA-ZOOM, SEPTEMBER 7, 2022

Submitted by Secretary-Carolyn McKenrick

1. Call to Order – President-Christina Gates called the meeting to order at 7:41 PM.

2. Members Present-President-Christina Gates, Vice-President-Rich Stanaitis, Secretary-Carolyn McKenrick, Treasurer-Donna Quante, BOD-Laurie Stone, Mary Beth Logue, Insa Robinson, Alice Fitzgerald, & Ron Klepadlo.

3. Agenda-President- Christina Gates presented a Proposal/Agreement from the Siberian Husky Club of America, Inc. This Proposal/Agreement is sponsorship for the 4 & 6 Dog Registered Breed Classes at the Tug Hill Challenge Race set for February 18-19, 2023, in Winona State Forest, Loraine, N.Y. The sponsorship is a total of $600 to be split between the two classes. Vice-President-Rich Stanaitis made a motion to accept the Proposal/Agreement. BOD-Laurie Stone seconded the motion. The motion Passed.

4. Registration Procedures-

A. Constant Contacts

B. Byte

C. Others

After much discussion, Treasurer-Donna Quante made a motion to accept Byte as our primary Registration Source. Vice-President-Rich Stanaitis second the motion. The motion Passed.

 For insurance purposes, if our waiver is not included on the Registration form, a motion was made by President-Christina Gates to have all participants sign a waiver when they pick up their race event packet. Vice-President-Rich Stanaitis seconded the motion. The motion Passed.

 President-Christina Gates made a motion to keep Constant Contacts available till we can prove Byte is more successful. BOD-Alice Fitzgerald seconded the motion. The motion Passed. 

5. Discuss Summer Campout-

A. Awards Issues- The Board discussed the Awards issue at the Summer Campout. We as a club must announce on our registration form that anyone not present or have not designated a person to pick up their awards would not receive any award but would be listed in the order they finished. This is also listed in our Policies & Procedures. We must follow the rules we have in place. If the person is not a member (only the Summer Campout) and has not filled out a registration form for this event they must sign a waiver explaining our position before they are allowed to participate in our event.

6. Jersey Devils Dryland-December 2-3, 2022- 

A. Vote on Officials: BOD-Insa Robinson/co-organizer presented the Race Officials list to the Board. BOD-Mary Beth Logue made a motion to accept the Race Officials List as it was presented to the Board. BOD-Alice Fitzgerald seconded the motion. The motion passed. *

B. Insa Robinson reported they are currently working on different fund-raising projects to increase the purse at the event.

7. Frost Mountain Race Proposal, Brownfield, Maine, January 21-22, 2023-

A. BOD-Alice Fitzgerald presented a Proposal for the Frost Mountain Race.  Johnn Molburg traveled up to look at the trails. The Race Proposal looks great! She will continue to go ahead with planning for this event and will have more information at our next Board Meeting. 

8. Tug Hill Challenge-February 18-19, 2023-

A. Vote on Officials- for now the Board has tabled a vote until Ron can speak with his Race Officials to see if everyone is on Board.

B. New trails are being worked on in the Winona Forest, if they are not held up due to weather, it will be possible to use these new trails at this race which would eliminate head-on passing. 

C. Also it may be possible to have a 12-mile unlimited trail, which could possibly mean there would be no 8-dog class. More updates will be reported at a later date.

9. Howard Eaton Reservoir Race-

A. BOD-Ron Klepadlo will have more information and updates at our next Board Meeting.

10. Port Jervis Demo-This demo has been canceled.

11. PSDC Fall Campout-October 7-9, 2022

A. Need additional insurance-

1. Donna, please inform the Insurance Company of Deborah & Steven Davis as additionally insured (Certificate) $50.

B. Ron Klepadlo will set up the Byte Registration- items to be on the registration

1. Helmets Required & Eye Protection Highly Recommended.

2. Each person must be a club member to attend

3. The Davis Residents will be off limits due to Covid Protocols

4. Bring it in take it out (Trash, dog waste, etc.)

5. Dogs should be updated on all vaccinations (bring proof)

6. Primitive Camping (Cost $15/night/campsite)

7. Bring your own dishes/cups/silverware/paper products & chairs

8. No personal campfires (the club will have a group campfire)

9. Close registration Tuesday October 4, 2022

C. Porta-Pots

1. A motion was made by Vice-President-Rich Stanaitis to go with the 2 porta-pots with the hand wash station. The cost will be including tax $400.53. Donna Quante seconded the motion. The motion passed.

D. Mini-seminars- 

1. Race/Officials-Duties-Chris Seminatore

2. Timing Clinic-Live timing of teams- John Gates

3. Event Organizer- Chris Seminatore

4. Race Marshall-Christina Gates

5. Trail Boss-Rich Stanaitis

6. Registered Breed Official- Donna Quante & Laurie Stone

E. Go over itinerary (The attached proposed agenda for the campout)

F. Food Costs

1. Dinner – planned meal for Saturday- Turkey, Gravy, Mashed Potatoes, filling, Corn, Green Beans, & Pie: $15-Adult, $8-Children over 3 years, under 3 years free.

2. Breakfast-bacon, eggs, pancakes, sausage- Adults $8, $3 Children over 3, 3 & under free.

12. Proposal to loan the PSDC Bibs to the Ohio Trailbreakers for the Lodi, OH, Dryland Race on November 26-27, 2022.

A.  A motion was made by BOD-Ron Klepadlo to lend the PSDC Bibs to the Ohio Trail Blazers for their upcoming event November 26-27, 2022, with the understanding they will be returned in time for our Dryland Event in NJ. Vice-President-Rich Stanaitis seconded the motion. The motion Passed. *

*A correction has been made to this motion. PSDC by laws do not allow us to loan equipment out. A motion was made by President-Christina Gates to rent the bibs to the Ohio Trailbreakers for $1.00 with the understanding they will be returned to the club in time for our N.J. race. Secretary-Carolyn McKenrick seconded the motion. The motion Passed.  

13. Proposed Schedule of Events for the PSDC Fall Campout, October 7-9, 2022:

This is not the final Event Schedule-Adjustments will be made at our next Board Meeting!

1. Friday

   1. Open Training (6:30AM- 10:00PM) head on passing possible

2. Saturday

   1. Open Training (6:30AM-10:00PM) EXCEPT during Leap Frog Training

   2. 7-8:30 Breakfast

   3. Leap Frog training (Weather Permitting) Steven Davis

      1. 9:00 AM Drivers Meeting

      2. 9:30-11:30 LeapFrog Passing – 4 Dog Limit (Driver +1 handler wearing ball cap) approx. 2 miles

   4. 11:30-1pm Lunch on your own

   5. 1pm drivers meeting for lead dog training (Ron Klepadlo)

   6. General Membership Meeting

   7. 1:15-2:30 One on one lead dog training

   8. All day silent auction (need volunteer to set up and monitor)

   9. All day club vending table and raffle table (proceeds to go to upcoming race purses)

   10. 3-4:30 Mini seminars on race officials/positions (contact Chris Seminatore)

   11. 6:30 PM dinner

   12. After dinner Movie

   13. Campfire out back

3. Sunday

   1. Open Training (6:30AM-10:00PM)

   2. 7-8:30 Breakfast

   3. 10am Kennel Management Discussion Panel

14.  Adjournment- A motion to adjourn was made by BOD-Laurie Stone and seconded by BOD-Insa Robinson. Adjournment 9:38 PM.

15. September 8, 2022, Board Approval of money donated towards purses.

A. BOD-Donna Quante made a motion to donate $750 from the club Treasury towards purses for each event held this 2022-2023 Race Season. BOD-Alice Fitzgerald seconded the motion. The motion Passed.

* Jersey Devil Race Officials & Race Information:

Race Marshall- Christina Gates

Chute Judge-Bryan Freeman

Trail Boss-Rich Stanaitis

Timer-John Gates

Asst Timer-Len Haring

Registrar-Wendy Tarlow

Registered Breed Official-Ron Klepadlo

Announcer-

Dog Marker/Photographer-Theresa Epstein

We will be offering the following classes. 

On Saturday only, we have a “Run what you brung” class on our 1.7 trail. 

ISDRA sanctioning pending

IFSS accredited 

6-dog rig (sportsman & pro & RB)                  

3.8 miles

4-dog rig (sportsman & pro & RB)                  

3.8 miles

3-dog rig (junior - can run with 2 dogs) 3.8 miles

2-dog bikejor (sportsman & pro & RB)            

3.8 miles

1-dog bikejor (sportsman & pro & RB)             

3.8 miles

1-dog bikejor (junior) 3.8 miles

2-dog scooter (sportsman & pro & RB)           

3.8 miles

1-dog scooter (sportsman & pro & RB)           

3.8 miles

1-dog scooter (junior) 3.8 miles

men canicross (sportsman & pro & RB).         

1.7 miles

woman canicross (sportsman & pro & RB).    

1.7 miles

junior canicross 1.7 miles

PSDC Board Meeting Notes - July 22, 2022

PSDC BOARD MEETING

TWIN STREAMS CAMPGROUND, MORRIS, PA.

JULY 22, 2022

Submitted by Secretary-Carolyn McKenrick

1. Call to Order: President-Christina Gates called the meeting to order at 7:35 PM. Members Present-President-Christina Gates, Vice-President-Rich Stanaitis, and Secretary-Carolyn McKenrick. Members present by Zoom- Treasurer-Donna Quante, BOD:Mary Beth Logue, Insa Robinson, Alice Fitzgerald, Laurie Stone. BOD-Ron Klepadlo. Johnn Molburg was also present to discuss various topics.

2. Secretary’s Report-Secretary-Carolyn McKenrick reported the PSDC Board. Meeting Report from the May 20, 2022 Board Meeting was sent out via email to all members. A motion was made to accept the Report as it was presented by BOD-Insa Robinson and seconded by Treasurer-Donna Quante. The motion passed.

3. Treasurer’s Report-Treasurer-Donna Quante reported that the PSDC-Saving Account Balance is $6159.66, Checking Account Balance is $6126.97 and PayPal is $93.00. Treasurer-Donna Quante also reported that until the updated information can be made with the Credit Union and Donna has internet and phone service at her new home Marsha Stoffa will continue to work with her to do the Treasurer’s duties. A motion was made by BOD-Alice Fitzgerald to accept the Treasurer’s Report as it has been presented. Vice-President-Rich Stanaitis seconded the motion. The motion passed.

4. Committees

A. Audit Committee

1. Elaine Bartholomew reported to the Board that a discrepancy was found of $250 in the checking account that actually dated back from before Marsha had taken over the books. Elaine suggested we move forward with the Balance $5732.40 as of April 1, 2022. BOD-Insa Robinson made a motion to accept this as the balance as of April 1, 2022. Vice-President-Rich Stanaitis seconded the motion. The motion Passed.

B. Social Media Coordinator: Treasurer-Donna Quante reported that the FaceBook page is running well. She also ask that maybe Jessica Kizmann would possible take over the Social Media Coordinator because with the added responsibility of being Treasurer taking up more time. Or maybe someone would be interested in taking this position.

C. Club Website: Jessica Kizmann does a great job of updating information very timely. The Website is running smoothly at this time.

D. ISDRA Report: Regional Director and PSDC President-Christina Gates reported.

1. The ISDRA Conference had around 75 in attendance and went well. Iditarod musher-Jessie Holmes was one of the speakers and gave a great presentation.

2. Dave Steele (IT Coordinator) & Margaret Harvey (Executive Director) are both retiring their positions. Interested persons should contact Margaret Harvey.

3. The ISDRA website is under major reconstruction. A stakeholder group is meeting biweekly with the website developer/designer to aid in this process, including Christina Gates.

4. The Goal is to modernize the website. Make it more user friendly and more usable across a wider range of devices including mobile. Also, provide easy access to ISDRA resources to members and RGO’s.

5. As of this time the Fat Tire Bike class for winter sports will still be for exhibition only, they are looking to see how much interest this class has. We may reach out to WFRA to come to the fall campout to share interest.

E. IFSS report: BOD-Ron Klepadlo-IFSS Dryland World Cup event accreditation applications are due August 1st . Applications submitted after August 1st will be on a first come first served basis so that USFSS can use all of the regional allotment of accredited races.

5. Events

A. 2022 Spring Meeting- Treasurer-Donna Quante reported that we had a fair turn out. The Guest Speaker, Jamie High of High’s Adventure Gear, gave a great presentation. It’s fair to say everyone enjoyed the meeting, diner, and gag awards.

B. 2022 Summer Campout-Organizer Liz Stanaitis reported we have 39 dinner reservations. Guest Speakers are: Natalie and Andre van der Merwe of Snowdrift Siberians. Expected events are Calcutta, races, lead dog competition, breakfast days, BBQ-Chicken diner, silent auction and awards. People are here setting up at this time. Hopefully the club can resolve the registration process.

C. 2022 Fall Campout and Meeting- Steve Davis will host this event. However, we will need someone to organize the schedule. The plan is to have a boot camp style training session. The trails will be the ones used during the race event held here. The club will pay for the port a johns, and gas for the grill to cook meals. Primitive camping is available and water will be available for your dogs. But not for showers as he is on a well. There also will be a Board Meeting, General Membership meeting and more. The date is October 7-9, 2022, at Richfield Springs, NY. Contact Steve Davis or Christina Gates if you would like to help out.

D. 2022 Port Jervis Demo, Port Jervis NY (October 22-23, 2022). Steve Schifani-organizer will need volunteers, primitive camping is available.

E. 2022 Jersey Devil Sled Dog Challenge, Brendan T. Byrne Forest, Mt. Misery, NJ. December 2-3, 2022. Classes 4 and 6 dog rig, 2 dog bike & scooter, 1 dog bike and scooter plus combined junior class of 3 dog rig, 1 dog bike and scooter to be run concurrently and canicross. ISDRA and IFSS sanctioning. A motion was made by BOD-Mary Beth Logue to accept the Proposal provided by Meredith Michener and Insa Robinson that included both races in NJ. BOD-Alice Fitzgerald seconded the motion. The motion passed.

F. Tug Hill Challenge, Winona State Forest, Lorraine, NY February 18-19, 2023. The TRP has been submitted just needs the insurance and trail map to be official. The Board is ok with everything including putting it out there on Facebook. The Board has put a hold on the registration with byte temporarily tabling that item for now. A discussion was also held about holding a weight pull along with the race and no decision was made until more information is available by talking with those that weight pull.

G. Grand Canyon Event, Grand Canyon, Pa. BOD-Mary Beth Logue this event is discontinued at this time.

H. 2023 Spring Dryland, Brendan T. Byrne Forest, Mt. Misery NJ, March 11- 12, 2023. This event will hold the same classes as the fall event. Meredith Michener and Insa Robinson are the event organizers, reach out to them if you would like to help.

I. Howard Eaton Reservoir Race -BOD-Ron Klepadlo is currently working on getting all the applications, insurance information and submitting this to the parks and borough. At this time no date has been set. Ron is going to proceed further and have more information at the fall Board meeting.

J. Another proposed race from Ron Klepadlo. He is currently getting more information about this course and what would be needed to hold a race at this venue.

K. 2023 Brownfield Maine Event, Brownfield, ME-BOD-Alice Fitzgerald has been meeting with the Maine Highlands Club to co-organize this event. The date is pending currently. Johnn Molburg will be traveling to ME to help evaluate the trails and working with this club. Parking availability & discuss race procedures.

L. Pay Schedule- A motion was made by Vice-President-Rich Stanaitis to maintain the current pay scale that we have for all Club Officials and for Race Officials. BOD-Donna Quante seconded the motion. The motion passed.

6. New Business

A. 2023 Spring Meeting- BOD-Donna Quante and Nancy Molburg are the organizers. A motion was made by Vice-President-Rich Stanaitis to continue having the Spring Meeting at the current venue, the Comfort Inn in Denver, Pa. BOD-Insa Robinson seconded the motion. The motion passed. No date at this time has been secured. It will likely be in May.

B. 2023 ISDRA Conference-Late June of 2023, the conference will be coming back to the East coast. Nancy Molburg would mentor an organizer, maybe in the Finger Lakes Region of NYS, possible dinner cruise and wine tasting. President-Christina Gates and Meredith Michener will evaluate possible locations.

C. 2023 Summer Camp out, Twin Streams Campground, Morris, Pa. (date pending).

D. Heat Imaging Research by Ana Jimenez (Colgate University), introduced to me by Dr. Heather Huson. Ana will attend this weekend, Saturday morning and will need test subjects during our Calcutta event.

E. We Thank John and Christina Gates for donating items for the kids’ activities.

F. We as a club are continuing COVID safety protocol at club events, hand sanitizer and masks are available.

G. Alice Fitzgerald’s son has agreed to look into our internet accounts along with Insa Robinson who is currently our go to person.

H. BOD-Donna Quante will be looking into Insurance for Board Members.

I. Proposed SHCA donation of money to the 4 and 6 dog Reregistered Breed Classes at the Tug Hill Challenge. The Board tabled this item till everyone can readthe proposal and will further discuss this at our next Board zoom meeting to be held next week.

J. Speaker Compensation will also be tabled and revisited next week at our zoom Board meeting.

7. For the Good of the Club- how to improve our registration process for events. This item has also been tabled and will be revisited at our upcoming Board Meeting next week.

8. Adjournment- Vice-President-Rich Stanaitis made a motion to adjourn the meeting, President-Christina Gates seconded the motion. Adjournment 9:29 PM.

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PSDC General Membership Meeting Notes - October 2, 2021

PSDC GENERAL MEMBERSHIP MEETING

TWIN STREAMS CAMPGROUND, MORRIS, PA.

OCTOBER 2, 2021

Submitted by Secretary-Carolyn McKenrick

 1. Call to Order: President-Christina Gates called the meeting to order at 3:20 pm.

2. Secretary’s Report: BOD-Donna Quante made a motion to accept the General Membership Meeting Report from May 1, 2021 in Denver, Pa. The report was sent out to all PSDC members via email. Vice-President-Rich Stanaitis seconded the motion. The motion passed.

3. Treasurer’s Report: Treasurer-Marsha Stoffa reported the account balances are as follow: Checking- $5826.81, Savings-$6007.76, & PayPal-$526.17. BOD-Meredith Michener made a motion to accept the Treasurer’s Report as it has been presented.  Vice-President-Rich Stanaitis seconded the motion. The motion passed.

4. Committees:

a. Social Media Coordinator: BOD-Donna Quante reported that at this time there was nothing new to report. She did note that she is always looking for information to post on the PSDC F/b page. If anyone has articles, pictures of training runs, dogs & people photos or anything interesting please contact her at djqhusky@yahoo.com and she will post it on the PSDC F/b page.

b. Club Website: The PSDC Website is well managed by our Webmaster-Jessica Kizmann. 

c. ISDRA: President-Christina Gates reported that as the Region 5 Director for ISDRA, everyone should keep checking the ISDRA website often. Races and events are being added quite frequently. She also wanted the new members to know that there are many benefits to belonging to ISDRA such as: you can work towards medal status, they have a great Jr. musher program, they also publish Dog & Driver Magazine 6 times a year with lots of info regarding the sport, & they list upcoming events, to name a few.

5. Events:

a. 2021 PSDC Summer Campout July 30-Aug 1: Liz Stanaitis reported the campout had a fair turn out. The weather was great. The agenda included the Calcutta & drag races, lead dog competition, breakfast, BBQ Chicken dinner. The guest speaker was Urtha Lenharr who is the President of the Leonhard Seppala House Restoration Project. Urtha gave a great presentation on the history behind this project. Liz wanted to give a big THANK YOU to Insa Robinson & Nancy Molburg for all the Gag Awards they presented. The Customized Support Awards were fan favorites. 40 plus enjoyed the dinner and awards.

b. 2021 Fall Campout & Training Session October1-3: President-Christina Gates & Vice-President-Rich Stananitis reported a change in the agenda due to warm conditions for running the dogs. Training would be early; breakfast would now be at 9:30 am, and later a turkey dinner, pumpkin decorating, and a Halloween Parade. President-Christina Gates wanted to Thank everyone who participated in the Heat Imaging Research project by Ana Jimenez from Colgate University. The club looks forward to seeing the results from this research.

c. 2021 Port Jervis Demo November 6: Organizer Steven Schifani is looking for volunteers to help with this demo. The looped trail will be good for canicross, 1-2 dog bike, 1-2 dog scooter. There is an out and back trail (Boxbaum Road) that would be good for larger teams to do a training run/demo. There are primitive campsites available with port a pot. 

d. 2022 Tug Hill Challenge February 19-20: We have organizers! Megan Moberly, Jessica Kizmann & Ron Klepadlo have stepped up to organize this event. Jan Haring has offered to give them support to move forward with this event.

i. 50th Anniversary video at Tug Hill: BOD-Donna Quante is working with an associate to have a video production of the Tug Hill Challenge as part of the 50th Anniversary Celebration. 

e. 2022 Grand Canyon Sled Dog Challenge February 26: BOD-Mary Beth Logue reported plans are being made to move forward with this race. This will be an 18-mile course out and back. She is currently working with DCNR for approval.

f. 2022 Mt. Misery (Spring Dry Land Event): BOD- Insa Robinson & Meredith Michener are in the early stages of organizing this dryland race to be held in late March. The race site will be one we have used previously in the Pine Barrens of N.J.

g. March 12 & 13 2022 Early Spring Fun Run & Camp Out at Michaux: BOD-Donna Quante is organizing this event. Saturday would be for training and Sunday would be the fun run as a dryland event. This is an out & back trail. No charge for primitive camping. Solar restrooms, no water or electric. She is currently working with DCNR on approval. 

6. New Business:

a. 2022 Spring Meeting & Banquet: BOD-Donna Quante, Nancy Molburg, & Chris Jacobs are in the planning stages of this event. It will be held at the Comfort Inn in Denver, Pa. sometime in May. No date has been secured.

b. 2022 Summer Campout July 22-24: Liz Stanaitis stated since a very large event is planned in the Morris area on the weekend that we usually have the campout. We had to change the date to this weekend. It will be held once again at Twin Streams Campground in Morris, Pa.

c. Heat Imaging Research by Ana Jimenez (Colgate University), all tests were done on Saturday October 2, 2021, all the dogs tested ran two miles. Ana was pleased with the number of dogs that participated in the testing. She will reconnect with us when they finish their research and give us the results.

d. Continuing Covid safety protocol at all club events, hand sanitizer and mask.

e. Amy Cochrane discussed a future place in New York where it may start out as a training location and could possibly turn into a future race site. Primitive camping may be available. Look for more information on our f/b and website pertaining to this. She is planning on researching this site for more info

f. For the good of the club: Keep your eyes open for ticks, they are plentiful!

g. Adjournment: A motion to adjourn was made by BOD-Meredith Michener. Laurie Stone seconded the motion. Meeting Adjourned at 4:26 pm. 

PSDC Board Meeting Notes - October 1, 2021

PSDC FALL BOARD MEETING

TWIN STREAMS CAMPGROUND, MORRIS, PA.

OCTOBER 1, 2021

Submitted by Secretary-Carolyn McKenrick

1. Call to order: President-Christina Gates called the meeting to order at 6:09 PM.

Members Present: President-Christina Gates, Vice-President-Rich Stanaitis, Secretary-Carolyn McKenrick, Treasurer-Marsha Stoffa, & Board of Directors: Insa Robinson, Meredith Michener, Donna Quante; Mary Beth Logue & Alice Fitzgerald were present through a zoom meeting.

2. Secretary’s Report: As of this date there was nothing new to report as incoming correspondence. A motion was made by BOD-Insa Robinson to accept the minutes from the PSDC Board Meeting that was held at Twin Streams Campground, in Morris, Pa. on July 30, 2021. The minutes were sent out through a mass emailing to all PSDC Members. BOD-Donna Quante seconded the motion. The motion passed. 

Secretary-Carolyn McKenrick also reported the cost for the Guest Speaker at the Summer Campout was $422.51

3. Treasurer Report: Treasurer-Marsha Stoffa reported the account balances for the PSDC, Savings: $6007.76, Checking-$5826.81, & PayPal-$526.17. A motion was made by Vice-President-Rich Stanaitis to accept the Treasurer’s Report as it has been presented. BOD-Donna Quante seconded the motion. The motion passed.

4. Committees:

a. Social Media Coordinator: BOD-Donna Quante reported at this time there really isn’t anything new going on with the Facebook page. She would like to note that if anyone has articles, pictures of training runs, dogs, and people or anything interesting you would like to share on the facebook page please contact her at djqhusky@yahoo.com with your info and she will post it for you.

b. PSDC Website: Jessica Kizmann has the website running very smoothly currently.

c. ISDRA Report: PSDC-President-Christina Gates who is also the Region 5 Director for ISDRA reported that everyone should keep checking the ISDRA webpage for new events as they are being added and updated often. There are many benefits to belonging to ISDRA, ex: you can work toward medal status, they have a great Jr. mushers program, they publish Dog & Driver Magazine 6 times a year with lots of info regarding the sport & they have a list of upcoming events, just to name a few.

d. IFSS: No updates are available at the present time. 

5. Events: 

a. 2021 Summer Campout: Liz Stanaitis reported the Summer Campout had a fair turnout. Events for the weekend were the Calcutta & drag races, lead dog completion, breakfast, & BBQ Chicken dinner. The Guest Speaker this year was Urtha Lenharr who is the President of the Leonhard Seppala House Restoration Project in Nome, Alaska. Urtha gave a very good presentation on the history behind this project. Saturday evening ended with a group campfire & entertainment by Ray & Mike McKenrick. Fun was had by all that attended. 

b. Fall Campout & Training Session: President-Christina Gates & Vice-President-Rich Stanaitis reported that the agenda for the fall campout will be training, breakfast, turkey dinner, pumpkin decorating, and a Halloween Parade.  BOD-Meredith Michener suggested that at our General Membership Meeting we ask people to write down ideas for short demos, and list who you would like to have as guest speakers and what topics you would be interested in. Also, this year when teams are out training, Ana Jimenez from Colgate University, will be doing Data Collection for Heat Imaging Research on the effects of heat and how the dog’s bodies process it. We look forward to hearing the results of this testing. See President-Christina Gates to sign up for testing.

c. 2021 Port Jervis Demo: November 6, 2021: Organizer Steven Schifani reported to the PSDC Board that canicross, 1-2 bike & 1-2 Scooter trail will be a looped trail. There is also a out and back trail (Boxbaum Road) for larger teams to use as a training/demo. The area is managed by the Port Jervis Outdoor Club and they would really like a race to be run at this location, but will need help in getting adequate trails, so this year it will be a demo with hopes of future endeavors. Steven is asking for volunteers to commit to help with this project. Primitive camping will be available at no charge with port-a-pot’s close by. The PSDC Board reviewed a possible donation to this club but denied it at this time. 

d. 2022 Tug Hill Challenge February 19-20, 2022: We have new organizers for this race! Megan Moberly, Jessica Kizmann & Ron Klepadlo have volunteered to organize this race. Jan Haring has offered to give them assistance and lead them in the right directions.

i. 50th Anniversary video at Tug Hill: BOD-Donna Quante is working with an associate to make a video of the Tug Hill Challenge as part of the PSDC 50th Anniversary Celebration. This is currently  in the planning stages.

e. 2022 Grand Canyon Sled Dog Challenge: February 26, 2022: BOD-Mary Beth Logue reported plans are being made to go forward with this race. This will be a 18 mile course. Currently Mary Beth is waiting for approval from DCNR. 

f. 2022 Mt. Misery: BOD-Insa Robinson & Meredith Michener is in the early stages of organizing a dryland race in late March. The race site will be one we have used previously in the Pine Barrens of N.J.

g. 2022 Fun run & Campout in Michaux State Forest: BOD-Donna Quante is organizing this event planned for the weekend of March 12 & 13, 2022. Saturday would be for training and Sunday would be the fun run as a dryland event. This is an out & back trail. She is currently working with DCNR on the logistics. No charge for primitive camping. There are solar restrooms but no water or electric available. 

6. New Business:

a. 2022 PSDC Spring Meeting & Banquet: BOD-Donna Quante, Nancy Molburg, and Chris Jacobs are organizing this event as of today no date has been secured other than it will be in May. 

b. 2022 Summer Campout: Liz Stanaitis reported the date of this event will be July 22-24, 2022. 

c. Race Marshall Drivers Meeting prior to events to be done remotely and video posted for viewing. President-Christina Gates contacted Chris Seminatore regarding usage of the outstanding video he did for Lodi last year. It was quite specific to that location. She has asked him to produce a similar video for Tug Hill (with assistance from Mark Broughton) for a small donation to their club. BOD-Meredith Michener made a motion to have a standardized digital driver’s meeting on ISDRA Racing Rules. Each Musher would be required to view this video and sign off when they register for the race. BOD-Donna Quante seconded the motion. The motion passed.

d. The Board held a discussion on the protocol for COVID pertaining to the Timing Shack and what we feel are appropriate safety precautions. The Board also discussed the use of common items like bibs at events regarding appropriate COVID safety precautions. The club will continue to supply masks and hand sanitizer.

e. For the good of the club: BOD-Meredith Michener reminded us all to keep our eyes open for the next “Rookie of the Year”!

f. Adjournment: A motion was made by BOD-Donna Quante to adjourn the meeting. Treasurer-Marsha Stoffa seconded the motion. The meeting Adjourned at 7:14PM.  

Final Call for Anniversary Shirts!

ATTENTION! ATTENTION!

PSDC Secretary, Carolyn McKenrick, will be doing a final order for PSDC anniversary shirts.

The items are:

• Short Sleeved T-Shirts

• Long Sleeved T-Shirts

• Crew Sweatshirts & Hoodies

The color of the shirts will be gray with the 50th Anniversary design. See below to download the order form.

All merchandise must be prepaid. The deadline for all orders, along with your payment, must be mailed so they arrive no later than Tuesday, July 6. If we don't get your order by that date, it will not get ordered.

Please note: we will not be mailing any orders! Pick up will be at the PSDC Summer Campout, July 30-August 1 at Twin Stream Campground or at the PSDC Fall Campout, October 1-3 at Twin Stream Campground in Morris, PA. If you can not make the campout make arrangements for someone to pick up your order.

Payment must be made with checks or money orders payable to the PSDC. Mail all orders to:
PSDC Secretary Carolyn McKenrick
456 Pine Grove Road
Gardners, PA 17324

Deadline for all orders must arrive before July 6, 2021.

PSDC General Membership Meeting - May 1, 2021

PSDC GENERAL MEMBERSHIP MEETING

DENVER, PA., MAY 1, 2021

Submitted by Secretary-Carolyn McKenrick

1. Call to Order: President-Christina Gates called the meeting to order at 10:21 am.

2. Secretary’s Report: Secretary-Carolyn McKenrick ask the Membership for their approval for the minutes from the General Membership Meeting held at Twin Streams Campground, in Morris, Pa. on October 31, 2020. The Report was sent out through a mass email.  A motion to accept the minutes was made by BOD-Laurie Stone, and was seconded by Alice Fitzgerald. The motion passed.

Positions up for Election this year are: Vice-President, Secretary, & 3 BOD.

3. Treasurer’s Report: Treasurer-Masha Stoffa reported that an issue with the Postal Service caused a delay of delivery of our Insurance Premium. She was able to take care of paying it, but the delay caused the Club an extra $20. As of the meeting, the PSDC Account Balances are: Checking:  $4697.31, Savings: $6006.23, & PayPal: $947.01. A motion was made by Alice Fitzgerald to accept the Treasurer’s Report as it is presented. Jim Fitzgerald seconded the motion. The motion passed.

4. Committee Reports:

a. ISDRA Report: President-Christina Gates is the ISDRA Director for our region. She reported that the ISDRA meeting will be coordinated with GLSDA Midwest Educational Sled Dog Expo and Trade Fair June 18-20. Although it will be different than the ISDRA convention and awards we are accustomed to, due to the pandemic, it will be scaled back and not a stand-alone event. The GLSDRA event will focus on training and education especially for beginners and those looking to learn new ideas and techniques, (an area ISDRA can benefit from by gaining new members.)  They will be raffling an Arctic Star Sled donated by Johnn & Nancy Molburg as well as a few other special items. A membership table and display, & medals will be presented to this year’s winners Saturday evening after the BBQ, as well as Event of the Year certificates. The Board will also be conducting their usual business meeting both in person and via zoom to those unable to attend. There will be an opportunity Sunday morning to offer a general membership meeting.  The ISDRA Board will be announcing the classes that medaled and the winners as that information becomes available.

b. Social Media Coordinator- BOD-Donna Quante also our Social Media Coordinator. Donna reported that the Face Book page gets a lot of views as high as over 1000 but mostly averages 200-300. She also asks that people post pictures & stories of what they are doing with their dogs through the summer.

c. Club Website- Club Website: Jessica Kizzmann -Website updates have been efficiently communicated to the webmaster. Most new content is related to events, race information & committee notes.

d. IFSS report:  Steve Davis –Term ends this summer (2021) and he will not seek reelection. They will decide on the Bristol World Championship (as venue) in May. May/may not be a go due to Covid and continuing border restrictions to Canada. All federations would need to have the ability to send a representative team (for that country). They have voted to hand the RNB over to WSA (World Sled Dog Association) during their last summit. The USFSS voiced opposition to this but was out voted. This will negatively affect RNB in North America for IFSS sanctioned events.

5. Old Business

a. 2020-2021 Events in Review

i. Summer Campout- Liz Stanaitis reported the campout was held at Twin Streams Campground, in Morris, Pa. July 31, Aug.1, & 2, 2020.  They had a fair turn out despite the covid vaccine. The agenda included breakfast both days, drag races, Insa Robinson gave a demo on making lines, BBQ Chicken Dinner, and a campfire. Also, they did a tour of the Pa. Grand Canyon. 

ii. Fall Camp Out & Meeting- The Camp out was held at Twin Streams Campground in Morris, Pa. October 30, 31 & Nov 1, 2020. Training was held on the State Forest Roads that are located close by. This event was put together at the last minute. The Boy Scout Camp was not responding to our calls so at the last minute the venue was changed. Rich Stanaitis was able to get us in at Twin Streams Campground. Events on the agenda were: Breakfast both days, training, Halloween events, & a Homemade Turkey Dinner, Board & General Membership Meetings were also held.

iii. Tug Hill Challenge- This event was scheduled for Feb. 13 & 14, 2021. Canceled due to COVID.

iv. Canyon Sled Dog Challenge- This event was scheduled for Feb. 27, 2021. Canceled due to COVID.

6. New Business

a. Upcoming 2021-2022 Events

i. Spring Meeting- 2021 Spring Meeting: Quante, Molburg, Jacobs- celebrating 50 Years of Fur, Friends and Fun. Everything is coming together for the 50th Celebration, Iditarod & Yukon Quest mushers Jodie Bailey & Dan Kaduce will be doing a zoom meeting with the club talking about their adventures, a trivia contest is also planned along with a catered meal from Olive Garden. 

ii. Summer Campout & Meeting-2021 Summer Camp Out and Meeting: Stanaitis July 30-31 – Aug. 1, 2021 in Morris, Pa., at Twin Stream Campgrounds. Start booking camp sites and cabins soon. Meals available will be the same as in previous years, Saturday breakfast and BBQ Chicken dinner, Sunday breakfast.

iii. Fall Campout & Meeting-2021 Fall Camp Out and Meeting: Krause willing to organize, either Boy Scout Camp or Twin Streams Campground, either location is fine with her. She would like the board/membership to discuss which they would prefer… NOT October 15-17, she is not available that weekend.

After a raise of hands, it was decided that most would prefer Twin Streams Campground in Morris, Pa., for the Fall Campout. This is prime leaf peepers’ season, so make your camping or cabin reservations early. The date for the Campout will be October 1-3, 2021.

iv. NYS Dryland Challenge-2021 New York State Dryland Championship November: Davis, Due to concerns regarding insurance on private land, and he as a landowner being sued due to personal injury that could occur on his property during the event, he will not be moving forward with the event at this time. No date is scheduled for this event to occur in the future. 

v. Fair Hill Challenge- Ed Scheckner reported the trails are good in some spots but very poor in other spots. Some of the trails has had crushed stones placed on the trail. He said he would go back again and look at other areas and get back to us. The Club is looking for someone to organize this event. Possible moving it to the Pine Barrens in NJ.

vi. Tug Hill Challenge- TRP needs to be applied for through NYS DEC… ASAP Should be the weekend of February 19-20, 2022.  We need an organizer. President-Christina Gates mentioned that she would help someone as much as possible but cannot organize this event at this time. If this event does not find an organizer, we risk losing it. 

vii. Canyon Sled Dog Challenge- Logue February 26, 2022. Mary Beth Logue presented a proposal for the Canyon Sled Dog Challenge to the Board. 18-mile course for all classes, Pro & Registered Breed Class, 8-dog, 6-dog, Pro-Skijor & Sportsman Skijor.

b. Proposed 2021-2022 Event Schedule- Jim Fitzgerald made a motion to accept the Event Schedule as it was presented. Seconded by Chris Jacobs. The motion passed. 

c. New Events- There are currently no new events proposed to the Board. There are some events that are in the early development stage, but nothing is firmed up at this time. Those events are in Port Jarvis, NY. & Michaux State Forest, south central Pa.

d. Approval of race fees- the Membership needs to approve the current PSDC base race fee. The Board recommends not raising those fees. A motion was made by Crystal Lusby to maintain the current race fee structure. BOD-Laurie Stone seconded the motion. The motion passed.

e. Audit Committee- President-Christina Gates requested 2 people to serve on the Audit Committee. BOD-Donna Quante & Laurie Stone volunteered for the Audit Committee.

f.  For the Good of the Club- Nancy Molburg made an announcement introducing Nancy Carbaugh Sheely- as the Founder of the Tug Hill Challenge, she put in endless hours building trails and working with the State Forest in NY to build a great race course. 

The Board approved a new award “Rookie of the Year”.

g. Elections- Positions up for Election this year are: Vice-President, Secretary, & 3 Board of Directors. Those 3 Board positions are currently held by: Mary Beth Logue, Insa Robinson, & Laurie Stone.

i. Vice-President-Rich Stanaitis will seek another term as Vice-President. The floor opened for nominations. No other nominations were presented. A motion was made by Jim Fitzgerald to close the floor for nominations. Alice Fitzgerald seconded the motion. The motion passed. With no other nominations for Vice-President presented, President-Christina Gates instructed Secretary-Carolyn McKenrick to cast a single vote per PSDC by-law protocol.

ii. Secretary-Carolyn McKenrick will seek another term as Secretary. The floor opened for nominations. No other nominations were presented. A motion was made by Jim Fitzgerald to close the floor for nominations.  Alice Fitzgerald seconded the motion. The motion passed. With no other nominations for Secretary presented, President-Christina Gates cast a single vote per PSDC by-law protocol.

iii. Board of Directs 3 positions up for Election: Mary Beth Logue, Insa Robinson, & Alice Fitzgerald are the nominees. The floor was opened for nominations. No other nominations were presented.  Jim Fitzgerald made a motion to close the floor for nominations. BOD-Laurie Stone seconded the motion. The motion passed. President-Christina Gates instructed Secretary-Carolyn McKenrick to cast a single vote for each Director Nominee. Per PSDC by-law protocol. 

iv. Presenting the new Board: President-Christina Gates, Vice-President-Rich Stanaitis, Secretary-Carolyn McKenrick, Treasurer-Marsha Stoffa, BOD-Mary Beth Logue, Donna Quante, Insa Robinson, Meredith Michener, & Alice Fitzgerald. The new Board will take over June 1, 2021.

7. Adjournment- Jim Fitzgerald made a motion to adjourn. BOD-Laurie Stone seconded the motion. The Meeting Adjourned at 11:11 am.

Awards presented at the end of the meeting:

Appreciation Award- Johnn Molburg was presented the Appreciation Award for serving the PSDC as President for 18 years. The award was made in Alaska and consisted of a musher and his team of dogs. 

The PSDC Harvey Saltzer Memorial Award-Ins Robinson was presented with the 2021 Harvey Saltzer Award, in addition to a trophy/plaque the PSDC will donate $100 to the Humane Society of the winner’s choice in memory of the work done at the East Shore Branch of the Harrisburg Humane Society by late PSDC President Harvey Saltzer. 

The PSDC Jim Gauger Memorial Award- Ron Bates was presented with the 2021 Jim Gauger Memorial Award as a trophy/plaque. This Award recognizes a person who makes contributions to the club and exhibits the good sportsmanship so many of us remember in Jim Gauger. Ron has shown these qualities to new mushers as he shows them the ropes. He has influenced many newcomers to the sport. Ron was not present at the meeting so his Award will be mailed out to him along with a recognition letter. 

The “Rookie of the Year” Award- Melissa Armstrong was presented with the 2021 Rookie of the Year Award as a certificate & skijoring line. This is a very new Award being given out for the very first time. It not only exemplifies someone who may race, but those that give unselfishly to the club by helping at events ex: Melissa drove to Tug Hill to help as trail help even though she was not racing. She also helped at the fall campout and even put her nurses’ hat on and took temperatures at the Spring Meeting. 

The Recognition Award – Goes to Rob Downey for being our Alaska Connection for many years and for his many years of support and donations for club events. Rob will be awarded a 50th Year Packet which includes: A Booklet of the History of the PSDC, an embroidered PSDC face mask, bumper sticker & pen. Rob was not present at the meeting; his award will be mailed to him. 

We would like the Thank the outgoing Board Members for their hard work in keeping the club working like a well-oiled machine. We would also like to welcome all new Board Members. 

Guest Speakers at this year Spring meeting: Jodi Bailey & Dan Kuduce both Yukon Quest & Iditarod Veterans.  Dan won the Yukon Quest Summit Race in 2021. 

PSDC Board Meeting Notes - May 1, 2021

PSDC BOARD MEETING REPORT

DENVER, PA. MAY 1, 2021

Submitted by Secretary-Carolyn McKenrick

1. Call to Order: President-Christina Gates called the meeting to order at 8:38 am.

Members Present: President-Christina Gates, Vice-President-Rich Stanaitis (by zoom), Secretary Carolyn McKenrick, Treasurer-Marsha Stoffa, Board of Directors: Insa Robinson, Donna Quante, Meredith Michener, & Laurie Stone (by zoom). Not present: Mary Beth Logue.

2. Secretary’s Report: Secretary-Carolyn McKenrick reported that the Board needs to approve the minutes from the Board Meeting on October 20, 2020 at Twin Streams Campground in Morris, Pa. & the Board Reports from the zoom meetings on January 10, 2021, March 7, 2021 & March 28, 2021. All reports were sent out via email. BOD-Insa Robinson made a motion to accept the minutes as they were presented. BOD-Donna Quante seconded the motion. The Motion Passed.

3. Treasurer’s Report: Treasurer-Marsha Stoffa reported that she had mailed out a check for our Insurance Coverage. Due to delays with the Post Office the insurance company did not receive the check on time. She did however take care of paying it. Due to this delay it cost the club an extra $20.00. As of the Board Meeting, the Account Balances are: Checking: $4697.31, Savings: $6006.23, & Pay Pal: $947.01.

4. Committees Reports:

a. Election Committee: Secretary- Carolyn McKenrick reported the positions up for Election are: Vice-President, Secretary, & 3 BOD. Vice-President-Rich Stanaits will run for re-election, Secretary-Carolyn McKenrick will run for re-election, BOD-Insa Robinson will run for re-election, Mary Beth Logue will run for re-election, Laurie Stone declined the nomination, Alice Fitzgerald will run for a position on the Board.

b. Social Media Coordinator: BOD-Donna Quante also is our Social Media Coordinator, she reported that the Face Book page gets a lot of views as high as over 1000 but mostly averages 200-300. She also asks that people post pictures & stories of what they are doing with their dogs through the summer. 

c. Club Website: Jessica Kizzmann -Website updates have been efficiently communicated to the webmaster. Most new content is related to events, race information & committee notes.

d. ISDRA report: President-Christina Gates is the ISDRA Director for our region. She reported that the ISDRA meeting will be coordinated with GLSDA Midwest Educational Sled Dog Expo and Trade Fair June 18-20. Although it will be different than the ISDRA convention and awards we are accustomed to, due to the pandemic, it will be scaled back and not a stand-alone event. The GLSDRA event will focus on training and education especially for beginners and those looking to learn new ideas and techniques, (an area ISDRA can benefit from by gaining new members.)  They will be raffling an Arctic Star Sled donated by Johnn & Nancy Molburg as well as a few other special items. A membership table and display, & medals will be presented to this year’s winners Saturday evening after the BBQ, as well as Event of the Year certificates. The Board will also be conducting their usual business meeting both in person and via zoom to those unable to attend. There will be an opportunity Sunday morning to offer a general membership meeting.  The ISDRA Board will be announcing the classes that medaled and the winners as that information becomes available.

e. IFSS report:  Steve Davis –Term ends this summer (2021) and he will not seek reelection. They will decide on the Bristol World Championship (as venue) in May. May/may not be a go due to Covid and continuing border restrictions to Canada. All federations would need to have the ability to send a representative team (for that country). They have voted to hand the RNB over to WSA (World Sled Dog Association) during their last summit. The USFSS voiced opposition to this but was out voted. This will negatively affect RNB in North America for IFSS sanctioned events.

5. Events:

a. 2021 Spring Meeting: Quante, Molburg, Jacobs- celebrating 50 Years of Fur, Friends and Fun. Everything is coming together for the 50th Celebration, Iditarod & Yukon Quest mushers Jodie Bailey & Dan Kaduce will be doing a zoom meeting with the club talking about their adventures, a trivia contest is also planned along with a catered meal from Olive Garden.

b. 2021 Summer Camp Out and Meeting: Stanaitis July 30-31 – Aug. 1, 2021 in Morris, PA at Twin Stream Campgrounds. Start booking camp sites and cabins soon. Meals available will be the same as in previous years, Saturday breakfast and BBQ Chicken dinner, Sunday breakfast.

c. 2021 Fall Camp Out and Meeting: Krause willing to organize, either Boy Scout Camp or Twin Streams, either location is fine with her. She would like the board/membership to discuss which they would prefer… NOT October 15-17, she is not available that weekend.

d. 2021 New York State Dryland Championship November: Davis, Due to concerns regarding insurance on private land, and he as a landowner being sued due to personal injury that could occur on his property during the event, he will not be moving forward with the event at this time. No date is scheduled for this event to occur in the future. 

e. 2021 Fair Hill Challenge December?? Organizer?? The club is looking for an Organizer for this event. The Board discussed possible going back to the Pine Barrens.  

f.  Tug Hill Challenge:  TRP needs to be applied for through NYS DEC… ASAP Should be the weekend of February 19-20, 2022.  We need an organizer.

g. 2022 Grand Canyon Race:  Logue February 22, 2022. Mary Beth Logue presented a proposal for the Canyon Sled Dog Challenge to the Board. 18-mile course for all classes, Pro & Registered Breed Class, 8-dog, 6-dog, Pro-Skijor & Sportsman Skijor.

6. New Business:                                                                                                                                                               

a. Proposed 2021-2022 Event Schedule- Needs Membership Approval

b. Proposed 2021 -2022 Entry Fees- Needs Membership Approval, the Board recommends keeping it the same as in the past.

c. Donation to the Spring 2021 Zoom Speakers- A Motion was made by BOD- Meredith Michener to donate $100.00, T-Shirts, & a 50th Packet to the guest speakers Jodi Bailey & Dan Kaduce for taking time out of their busy schedule to do a zoom meeting with the PSDC Membership. BOD- Insa Robinson seconded the Motion. The Motion passed.

d. Recognition of Rob Downey for all his years of support and donations to the PSDC. BOD-Meredith Michener made a Motion to send Rob one of the 50th packets & T-Shirt. BOD-Insa Robinson seconded the Motion. The Motion passed.

e. Associated Dog Clubs of NYS & Pa Federation of Dog Clubs- The Board voted to continue membership with these two organizations. BOD-Insa Robinson made a Motion to continue the membership of each of these organizations. BOD-Donna Quante seconded the Motion. The Motion Passed.

f. The Board discussed the cost of the Packets which include the following:  Historic Booklet of PSDC, Embroidered face mask, Bumper sticker, and a pen. Vice-President-Rich Stanaitis made a motion that the PSDC would charge $30.00 per packet which would be cheaper than buying them separately and $20 for T-Shirts. BOD-Insa Robinson seconded the motion. The motion Passed. This would help the PSDC recover some money from having these items produced.  

7. For the Good of the Club….50 Years!! BOD-Meredith Michener made a Motion to present a new award for “Rookie of the Year”, this award will be presented to someone who may or may not race. Someone that gives unselfishly to the PSDC, their time by volunteering at events and just gives that extra effort to help. BOD-Insa Robinson seconded the Motion. The Motion Passed. This Year’s Award goes to Melissa Armstong.

8. Adjournment- A Moton was made by BOD- Donna Quante to adjourn the meeting. Treasurer- Marsha Stoffa seconded the Motion. The meeting Adjourned at 9:48am.     

PSDC General Membership Meeting - October 31, 2020

Twin Streams Campground, Morris, Pa.
October 31, 2020
Submitted by Secretary-Carolyn McKenrick

1. Call to order: President-Christina Gates called the meeting to order at 3:30PM.

2. Secretary’s Report: Secretary-Carolyn McKenrick reported the Board met through a video zoom meeting April 22, 2020 to discuss the Spring Meeting, Elections and Banquet. The Board voted to cancel the Meeting & Banquet due to COVID-19. Elections were held on line and all results were sent out through a emailing to the General Membership. Those results were: President-Christina Gates, Treasurer-Marsha Stoffa (who ran for another term). 2 Board of Directors were elected: Donna Quante and Meredith Michener. The first business order by President-Chrisitna Gates was to appoint Laurie Stone to fill the seat that was occupied by Dan Rehak, for the remainder of that term which will come up for election in 2021. A motion to accept the Secretary’s Report as presented was made by Meredith Michener and was seconded by Laurie Stone. The Motion Passed.

3. Treasurer’s Report: Treasurer-Marsha Stoffa reported the Checking Account Balance: $7379.00, the Savings Account Balance: $4005.02, and the Pay Pal Account Balance: $1088.28. The money in the Pay Pal Account will be transferred to the Checking Account after the Fall Campout Event is over. A motion was made to accept the Treasurer’s Report as is by Vice-President-Rich Stanaitis and seconded by Insa Robinson. The Motion Passed.

4. Committee Reports:

A. SDRA: President-Christina Gates, who is also the ISDRA Region 5 Director, reported that ISDRA is moving forward and planning for the Meeting and Banquet June 19 & 20, 2021.  Christina took the time to explain to the new members what ISDRA does for the sport of dog sledding sports. She also asks if all ISDRA members would renew their membership to help maintain their revenue for their operating expenses.

B. Social Media Coordinator: Donna Quante reported posts on Face Book are down and ask if anyone has articles or pictures to please post them on the Face Book page. The page is doing as well as expected during these COVID-19 times. She also reported that there are 19 entries in the Fall Paws Virtual Challenge and only 2 scratches. 

C. IFSS: Steven Davis reported to President-Christina Gates, she explained to some of the new membership a little bit about IFSS, how it sanctions races in USA, Canada, Europe, and South America. She also explained that its main goal is to get Dog Sledding Sports in the Olympics. No date has been set for their Fall Meeting. She encourages drivers of the Registered Breed Class to contact their represenitive. IFSS is planning on handing off its events to the World Championship Organization. The World Championship Organization has much stricter rules in place for the Registered Breed Class pertaining to the Breed Standard. President-Christina Gates will discuss with Steven Davis about sending out a survey to those planning on competing in the IFSS to see how those drivers feel towards this move.  

5. Old Business:

A. Past Events

1. Summer Campout: Liz Stanaitis reported that the 2020 Summer Campout had a fair turnout. People were looking to get out from the lock down from COVID-19. We had new people at the Campout. Events included drag races, lead dog training, a trip to the Pa. Grand Canyon, BBQ chicken diner, campfire and music by the fire.

6. New Business:

A. Upcoming Events

1. Tug Hill Chanllenge: President Christina Gates reported the dates for this event is February 13 & 14, 2021. She will be reaching out to the County for the requirements for COVID-19 and will be keeping a eye on the changing restrictions. With Tug Hill having such great trails we want to make sure we stay on top and don’t miss the opportunity to have a race there.

2. Grand Canyon Challenge: Mary Beth Logue reported that February 27, 2021 is the date for this event. It will be an 18 mile course and all depends on the COVID-19 restrictions near the time of the event. 

3. Spring Meeting, Elections & Banquet: Donna Quante reported May 8, 2021, the location is in Denver, Pa. Jodi Bailey a Yukon Quest and Iditarod finisher will be the guest speaker. We will be assessing the COVID-19 restrictions closer the time.

B. Board Review of All PSDC Paid Positions: The PSDC Board reviewed the PSDC Officials and Officers Pay Schedule. A motion was finalized to keep the Pay Schedule as it was presented, no changes at this time.

C. Election Committee: President-Christina Gates asks the membership for volunteers for the Election Committee. Those positions up for election will be Vice-President, Secretary and 3 board positions (Laurie Stone, Insa Robinson, and Mary Beth Logue hold these positions now).  Along with Secretary-Carolyn McKenrick, the two volunteers are Jullian Fogelsanger and Meredith Michener.

7. Discuss State COVID-19 Regulations as they pertain to upcoming events:

A. A discussion was held to address any concerns members may have with the COVID-19 restrictions. Examples are how will we mark dogs at a race? We may have to photograph the dogs instead of marking them. We discussed using masks in the starting chute and social distancing. It was noted that participants need to be at the starting chute by their start time that will be posted. President-Christina Gates will be purchasing disposable bibs for races. All Driver Meetings will be outside with social distancing regulations. We may need to rent more Port a Potty’s and may look into a food truck or no food available at the race site. These issues will be finalized at a later time.

8. For the good of the club: The PSDC would like to Thank Liz and Vice-President- Rich Stanaitis for stepping up and organizing the Fall Campout on very short notice. Without their help in locating a place to have the event, locating trails so everyone could run their dogs, cooking meals and having Halloween events our Fall Campout would not have happened. THANK YOU, LIZ & RICH!!

Thank You to President-Christina Gates and to Vice-President-Rich Stanaits for donating the turkeys along with some of the other items we had at this great feast.                                              

The PSDC would also like to THANK Cindy Eddy for her monetary donation and for the decorations, candy and Halloween donations. The PSDC would also like to THANK Ruth Sands for her donation of harnesses, sled drag brake, drag replacement pad and other items.

9. Adjournment: Laurie Stone made a motion to adjourn the meeting and Liz Stanaitis seconded the motion. Meeting Adjourned at 4:14PM.  

PSDC Board Meeting Notes - October 30, 2020

TWIN STREAMS CAMPGROUND, MORRIS, PA. 
OCTOBER 30, 2020 
Submitted by Secretary Carolyn McKenrick

1. Call to Order: President-Christina Gates called the meeting to order at 6:58PM.

Members Present: President-Christina Gates, Vice-President-Rich Stanaitis, Secretary-Carolyn McKenrick, Treasurer-Marsha Stoffa, Board of Directors: Meredith Michener, Donna Quante, Mary Beth Logue, Insa Robinson, & Laurie Stone.

2. Secretary’s Report: Secretary-Carolyn McKenrick reported that the minutes from our last Board Meeting of July 31, 2020 were presented and emailed out to all Board Members. A motion to accept the minutes as they were presented was made by Donna Quante. The motion was seconded by Laurie Stone. The motion Passed.

3. Treasurer’s Report: Treasurer-Marsha Stoffa reported the PSDC Checking Account has $7379.00, the Savings Account has $4005.02, and the Pay Pal Account has $1088.28 which will be moved to the Checking Account after the Fall Campout Event is over. A motion was made by Meredith Michener to accept the Treasurer’s Report as it was presented. The motion was seconded by Vice-President Rich Stanaitis. The motion Passed.

4. Committee Reports:

A. ISDRA: President-Christina Gates reported: She is the Region 5 Director for ISDRA. She reported that ISDRA is planning on having a online Auction. They are also asking everyone to pay their dues to help offset ongoing cost they encounter during the year. 

B. Social Media Coordinator- Donna Quante reported posts on the facebook page have slowed down due to COVID, but with the Fall Campout the post have increased at this time. She also reported on the Fall Paws Virtual Challenge. There are 19 entries with only 2 scratches. The Board discussed what prizes would be given out. A motion was made by Meredith Michener to award a PSDC T-Shirt for the overall Grand Prize Winner, and a magnet or decal to 1st place in each category. The motion was seconded by Vice-President-Rich Stanaitis. The motion Passed.

C. IFSS: Steven Davis the IFSS represenitive reported to President-Christina Gates, with COVID that not much has been happening. They are planning a meeting sometime this fall but as right now nothing is set up. The only other discussion was that IFSS is planning on handing over their events to the World Championship Organization. The World Championship Organization rules for the Registered Breed Class have much stricter rules pertaining to the standard of the Breed. He is encouraging those mushers to contact IFSS to persuade them not to hand this over to the World Class Organization.

5. Old Businesss:

A. Past Events:

1. Summer Campout: Summer Campout Organizer Liz Stanaitis reported that the Summer Campout 2020 had a moderate turn out even though we were in a COVID situation. Events included were drag races, Calcutta, lead dog completion, line making by Insa Robinson, Rich’s famous BBQ Chicken Diner, campfire and music. A good time was had by all and everyone stuck to social distancing.

6. New Business:

A. Upcoming Events:

1. Tug Hill Challenge: President-Christina Gates reported the dates of February 13 & 14, 2021 are set for this event. The PSDC is looking for an organizer for this event. President-Christina Gates is working on the preliminary aspects of this event, keeping the COVID protocols in mind, as they may be changing as we proceed ahead. In New York State the COVID rules and protocols are regulated by each County. The PSDC will evaluate the situation in early January before making final plans.

2. Grand Canyon Challenge: Mary Beth Logue reported that DCNR are not approving new events, but since this had been a preplanned event from the past depending on the COVID situation at the time could possibly be approved. We will make a call at a later time. The race date is February 27, 2021.This will be an 18 mile mid-distance event. If the race does not go, it may end up being a training event. 

3. Spring Meeting and Banquet: Donna Quante reported May 8, 2021 is the date for this event. We have the room reserved. Musher Jodi Bailey, owner and operator of Dew Claw Kennel along with her husband Dan Kaduce ran and finished both the Iditarod and Yukon Quest. They operate their kennel in Chatanika, Alaska. Jodi is scheduled to be the guest speaker if we are able to have this event. All depends on COVID restrictions. 

4. Tabetha Koppa is checking on 2 Mile Run County Park, in Venango County, Western Pa. for a possible location for a Dryland Event. The trail is actually a 10 mile trail with options to make the trail a distance suitable for a Dryland Event. She will get more information and have local mushers check the trail to see if it would work for an event. Its location is Franklin, Pa.

B. Board Review of all PSDC paid positions: Vice-President-Rich Stanaitis made a motion to accept the PSDC Officials and Officers Pay Schedule as it was presented to the Board. Laurie Stone seconded the motion. The Motion Passed.

7. Discuss State COVID-19 regulations as they pertain to upcoming club events:

A. PSDC would use masks, hand sanitizer; social distancing when helping teams to the line and in the chute.

B. Traveling to different states: as of right now there are 42 states on the quarantine upon (re)entry into NYS, that could change as of anytime.

C. Bib use? A motion was made by Vice-President-Rich Stanaitis to purchase disposable bibs for use at our races. Insa Robinson seconded the motion. The Motion Passed.

D. Timers in the timing shack at Tug Hill will be required to social distance and wear masks when more than one person is in the shack. Trail help will also need to social distance  out on the trail and when in the warming hut limit the number of people in the hut, social distance and wear masks.

E. Food at races: Possible have a food truck at the race site, if not available PSDC will advertise ahead that there will not be food or beverages available.

F. Port a Pots: may need to have more Port a Pots available to meet COVID-19 requirements and restrictions.

H. Drivers meeting: will take place outside with everyone social distancing and following guidelines for COVID-19.

8. For the Good of the Club: The PSDC Board would like to THANK Liz and Vice-President-Rich Stanaitis for stepping up and organizing the Fall Campout on very short notice. Without their help in finding a place to have the event, locating trails to run dogs on, cooking meals and having Halloween events the Fall Campout would not have happened. THANK YOU, LIZ AND RICH, !!

The PSDC Board would like to Thank Cindy Eddy for her kind monetary donation to the club. We would also like to Thank Cindy Eddy for the Halloween donations, candy and decorations! The PSDC would also like to THANK Ruth Sands for the donations of harnesses, drag mats along with other items. We would like to Thank President-Christina Gates and Vice-President-Rich Stanaitis for donating the turkeys and other items for the Saturday night meal and for all the work they put into the Fall Campout that made it a success.  

The PSDC Board will hold a special zoom meeting later to discuss and to make the final decision on the upcoming races.

9. Adjournment: A motion to adjourn was made by Donna Quante and seconded by Mary Beth Logue. Meeting Adjourned at 8:09 PM.

PSDC Board Meeting Notes - July 31, 2020

PSDC BOARD MEETING

TWIN STREAMS CAMPGROUNG, MORRIS, PA. 

JULY 31, 2020

Submitted by Secretary-Carolyn McKenrick 

CALL TO ORDER: President-Christina Gates called the meeting to order at 7:38 PM.

Members Present: President-Christina Gates, Vice-President-Rich Stanaitis, Secretary-Carolyn McKenrick, Board of Director-Insa Robinson. Members present Via Zoom meeting: Treasurer-Marsha Stoffa, Board of Directors: Mary Beth Logue, Laurie Stone, and Donna Quante. Board of Directors Member not present: Meredith Michener.

1. Secretary’s Report: Vice-President-Rich Stanaitis made a motion to accept the Secretary’s Reports as they were presented. Those reports were as followed:  the PSDC Board Meeting of April 22, 2020, the Election Report from May 13, 2020, and the updated Secretary’s Report from July 31, 2020. All 3 reports were sent out to the PSDC Board & Membership via email. Board of Director- Insa Robinson seconded the motion. The motion passed.

2. Treasure’s Report: Treasurer-Marsha Stoffa reported that as of this date the PSDC Checking Account has $6665.74, the Savings Account has $4004.32, & the PayPal Account has $935.91. On Monday there will be $900.00 moved to the Checking Account from the PayPal Account. $405.40 was paid to Constant Contacts to cover the cost for that service on June 24, 2020. $101.00 was paid to Square Space for their service.  Board of Director-Laurie Stone made a motion to accept the Treasure’s Report as it has been presented. Board of Director-Insa Robinson seconded the motion. The motion passed. 

3. Committee Reports:

   • ISDRA: President-Christina Gates (PSDC-ISDRA Director)- reported that there was not much new, with the COVID shutting down the boarders ISDRA did not have a meeting. They are currently working on scheduling a meeting.

   • Social Media: Donna Quante has been busy with posting upcoming events and news on the Facebook page and contacting Jessica Kizmann to have the web page updated. The Facebook page continues to get many likes and is viewed by many.

   • Website: Jessica Kizmann is doing a great job managing the Website, she updates the website with new information very quickly.

   • IFSS: President-Christina Gates reported for Steven Davis, the PSDC IFSS Represenitive, that due to the COVID there is not much news to report. Congratulations to all that participated in the IFSS International Points. Official Results can be found on their webpage at: https://sleddogsport.net/eng/23, https://sleddogsport.net/upload/document/worldcup/historic results/CUP2020 -Summary Final.pdf . Driver Identification Number (DID#), if athletes want to compete for International points, they must have a current IFSS DID#. Athletes must be a member of their regional organization. United State Federation of Sled Dog Sports (USFSS) and register for an IFSS DID# through that organization. More info can be found on the USFSS website: http://www.mushingusa.org/instructions.htm . IFSS Race Rules have been approved and updated by IFSS Council, note that there has been an update on the age in which a dog can compete. All dogs now must be 18 months old to participate in a competition. This change has been made based on the recommendations of IFSS Animal Health and Welfare Committee and along with some other experienced veterinarians. You will find the updated documented under Document/Regulations/Race Rules. Master Regulations have been approved by the IFSS members. They are published on IFSS website under Document/Regulations/Masters. Not sure how this will affect athletes competing in North America, but if they decide to compete at the Worlds it can have an effect. The General Assembly that was schedule at Duluth, Minnesota, USA, has been postponed, no make update has been set at this time. 

4. Events: 

   1. 2020 Summer Camp out:  Liz Stanaitis reported that everything is in place for a fun time. Drag Races, seminars- making your own gang lines presented by Insa Robinson, a presentation on first aid for dogs by Christina Gates, and a presentation by Claudia Filippino on her recent trip to Alaska are on the schedule along with Rich’s famous BBQ Chicken, silent auction and singing around the campfire.

   2. 2020 Fall Campout & Training Session: President-Christina Gates presented some new ideas for the Fall Campout and ask for suggestions and locations that we can use for this event. She is also going to check with LuWanna Krause on how we should go forward with this event. With the COVID still going on she is going to ask LuWanna if this venue is still available to our club. 

   3. NYS Dryland Challenge: President-Christina Gates reported for Steven Davis. Steven and his wife, Debbie do not feel they can safely host this event. With all the COVID restrictions that are currently in place, including travel bans they feel they cannot put on a quality PSDC event. They hope everyone understands and that the PSDC will be the RGO in 2021.

   4. Fair Hill Challenge: This location is not usable at this time and it will need an organizer. A discussion was held on possible race sites.    

   5. Tug Hill Challenge: The date for the Tug Hill Challenge is February 13 & 14, 2021. Currently, we need someone to step up as an organizer for this event.

   6. Grand Canyon Challenge: Board of Director-Mary Beth Logue reported that currently with the COVID situation the State Forest is not handing out permits. That may change soon and if that happens, we can schedule this event. The date Mary Beth is looking at will be February 27, 2021.

   7. 2021 Spring Meeting: Nancy Molburg and Donna Quante announced the date will be May 7 & 8, 2021. This will be the PSDC 50th Anniversary and they are making big plans. 

   8. A short break was taken from 8:05 PM to 8:30 PM for Zoom to be reschedule. 

5. New Business:

   • COVID safety at events/races- a discussion was held by the Board to discuss how we could protect the safety of the chute crew/ timers/ handlers. We also discussed a COVID waiver, PPE being provided by the PSDC (masks and hand sanitizer). Can we ensure the safety of support staff while still being able to be sure all drivers/dogs are safe? The Board feels we should go ahead with plans for events and adjust as needed. If the risk goes down, we go ahead with an event and we will adjust on a as is basis.

   • Virtual events: The Board discussed possibly having Virtual Events instead of or in addition to our scheduled events. Some of our members have in the past competed in Virtual Events. There are all kinds of possibilities. Races, time trials within States and the use of a modified point system to rate teams.

   • Online auctions to raise $ due to less events (contactless).

   • Online Membership drive: Questions such as “What can we offer to members as online resources?” in order to bring up our membership.  One thing we discussed was possible having an experienced musher in a video giving advice to those new folks or even having a musher from Alaska doing a video zoom meeting with the club. If anyone has suggestions, please contact a Board Member or bring it to one of our meetings.

   • 2021 PSDC 50th Anniversary Year: We want your ideas, items from the past and pictures of past events and members. This is a big moment and we want to celebrate it in style. 

6. For the Good of the Club:

   • Working on a procedure to deal with all the COVID restrictions. 

   • Working on a Virtual Race.

   • The new Board would like to Thank the outgoing Board Members for all their work they have done for the PSDC. The new Board Members want to Thank Johnn Molburg for serving the club for many, many, years as President and for all the work he has done for the PSDC. The new Board wishes him the best!!! The PSDC Board would like to welcome all new Board members. 

7. Adjournment: Vice-President-Rich Stanaitis made a motion to adjourn the meeting. Board of Director-Insa Robinson seconded the motion. The meeting was adjourned at 8:55 PM.           

Board Report & Candidate Statements for 2020 PSDC Elections

Attention all PSDC Members!

With the restrictions surrounding the Coronavirus and shut down the PSDC has canceled their upcoming Spring Meeting. However, we will be holding elections through email.

Members who have paid dues for the 2019-2020 fiscal year will be eligible to vote. Family members are allowed two votes and single persons are allowed one vote.

We will be mailing out ballots to those folks around May 5, 2020 and you will have till May 12, 2020 to return those Ballots. You will have instructions along with those Ballots.

2020 PSDC Elections

This message is for all PSDC members. Anyone interested in the following positions may contact the Election Committee. This year’s election will be taking place through email. Those positions up for election are President, Treasurer and 2 Board of Directors. All Candidates can send a statement to the Election Committee no later than April 25, 2020.

The Election Committee:

Carolyn McKenrick

Laurie Stone

Liz Stanaitis

Thank You For Another Successful Tug Hill Race!

The Pennsylvania Sled Dog Club wants to thank our sponsors for an amazing Tug Hill Challenge race. Thank you Rosellen Lepore, Rob Downey, and to Annamaet Petfoods for their continued financial support of the Tug Hill Challenge and the wonderful food & dog cookies for the mushers' goodie packets.

We’d also like to thank all officials, trail help, volunteers, mushers, spectators, and the Winona Forest Recreation Association for maintaining the beautiful trails. We encourage everyone to consider membership to support WFRA. They make this race possible!

PSDC Board Meeting Notes - August 2, 2019

PSDC BOARD MEETING
MORRIS, PA. AUGUST 2, 2019
Submitted by Secretary Carolyn McKenrick

1.Call to Order: President – Johnn Molburg called the meeting to Order at 7:20 PM.

Members Present: President-Johnn Molburg, Vice-President-Rich Stanatis, Secretary-Carolyn McKenrick and Board of Director Mary Beth Logue.

Members not Present: Treasurer-Marsha Stoffa and Board of Directors, Dan Rehak, Laurie Stone, Christina Gates & Insa Robinson.

* Due to not having a quorum, motions brought up in this meeting requiring a vote by the Board will be done through email.

2. Secretary’s Report: A motion was made by Mary Beth Logue to accept the Secretary’s Report from the May 17, 2019 PSDC Board Meeting in Denver, Pa. as it was reported to all Board Members and General Membership through an email. Vice-President-Rich Stanatis seconded the motion. Motion was passed.

3. Treasurer’s Report: Secretary- Marsha Stoffa reported to President-Johnn Molburg that as of August 2, 2019 the PSDC Savings Account has a balance of $2001.19, the Checking Account has a balance of $5535.66 and the PayPal Account has a balance of $634.68, $200 of that will be going to Jessica Kizmann for payment as our Web Master. The remainder of that money will be moved to our Savings/Checking Account after the Summer Camp out. A motion was made by Mary Beth Logue to accept the Treasurer’s Report as presented. Vice-President-Rich Stanatis seconded the motion. The motion Passed. 

4. Committee Reports:

    A. ISDRA Report: Christina Gates reported to President-Johnn Molburg items that were being discussed by ISDRA. The ISDRA Conference will be held June 19-21, 2020, the location will be Ranch Rudolf in Traverse City, MI. ISDRA has created a Legislative Advisory Committee. They discussed what the lobbyist group Associated Dog Clubs of NYS, Inc. is about.  Another item brought up was the Driver Report Forms, which PSDC needs to do a better job of getting these backs to ISDRA. A discussion was held on newly proposed Dryland Rules, this discussion is still ongoing. Christina recommends checking the ISDRA page for more information.  

    B. Social Media Coordinator: Donna Quante reported to President-Johnn Molburg through an email. The PSDC Facebook page has 924 likes, most posts are getting over 100 views with many getting over 400.  She plans on posting more stories and thinks this will keep people coming back to our page. The post about the pilot who flies rescue dogs has gotten more views than anything posted. She would like to see more members posting photos of activities they do with their dogs. 

    C. IFSS Report: Steven Davis reported that there are possible changes coming from IFSS in the area of fees charged for events, but it is not official as of this time.

5. Old Business:

    A. Past Events

         1. Spring 2019 Meeting: Chris Jacobs, Nancy Molburg and Donna Quante reported that the Spring Meeting was very successful. Lev Shvarts gave a great presentation and talked about his Iditarod experience. The event did make a profit for the Club and had a moderate turnout.

    B. Pa. Dog Club Federation: President-Johnn Molburg reported the application has been filled out and submitted and we are just waiting for conformation.

6. New Business:

    A. Associated Dog Clubs of New York State Inc.- Christina Gates contacted President-Johnn Molburg, asking if PSDC would consider joining this Organization. She felt it would give our club a voice in any changes made by New York State in Dog related Laws that could affect our club and any events we have planned in New York. The fee to join would be $50.

* A motion was made for PSDC to join the Associated Dog Clubs of New York State Inc. by Vice-President-Rich Stanatis. Seconded by Mary Beth Logue. 

    B. Upcoming Events

          1. Summer Campout- Liz Stanatis reported that Animal Communicator, Anita Curtis is the guest speaker, events planned are the Calcutta and Drag Races, Chicken BBQ, Lead dog competition, breakfast both days and Silent Auction. Registration was light but felt it was going to be a great event. 

          2. Fall 2019 Meeting- LuWanna Krause reported the dates for this event are October 18-20, 2019. Training will be scheduled for Saturday and Sunday mornings. She is looking into a site close by that would allow longer distances. A Mushing 101 clinic will be held in the afternoon and a turkey diner will be planned for Saturday night.  

         3. New York Challenge Dryland Race- Steven Davis contacted the Board with a proposal for a new event to be held November 2 & 3, 2019. Steven laid out the foundation for this event which seems to be in order. It just needs to be approved by the Board.

* Mary Beth Logue made a motion to proceed with this event. Vice-President- Rich Stanatis seconded the motion.

          4. Fair Hill Challenge- President-Johnn Molburg reported that he plans to contact Lynda Ninos and Ed Schreckner on the status of this event.

          5. Tug Hill Challenge- Jan Haring reported the dates for this event are February 15 & 16, 2020. There has been some work on the trails. Vice-President- Rich Stanatis will reach out to our contacts to see what the status of the trails are. 

           6. Grand Canyon Sled Dog Race- Mary Beth Logue reported that the event co-organizers are still interested in having this event. The date is February 22, 2020. They will be offering a 6 & 8 dog Pro class and a 6 and 8 dog Registered Breed class along with a 2-dog skijoring class, the course will be 18 miles.

    C. Dividing up Dans Duties- A discussion was held to see what the best course of action will be to divide up the duties that Dan currently does.  This will be further discussed at our fall Board meeting.

7. For the Good of the Club- Recently several items have been donated to the PSDC.

  * A motion was made by Vice-President Rich Stanatis that PSDC would auction off these items (one at a time, maybe one in the fall and one in the spring). Folks could follow auction bid levels as they are posted to our FB/Web page. The winner would be responsible for any shipping expenses. Mary Beth Logue seconded the motion.

8. Adjournment- A motion was made by Mary Beth Logue to adjourn our meeting. Vice-President-Rich Stanatis seconded the motion. Meeting Adjourned at 9:15 PM.  

*The three motions brought forward have been approved by the Board as of August 12, 2019.   

U.S. Department of Transportation Clarifies the Use of Emotional Support Animals on Flights

From “U.S. Department of Transportation Clarifies the Use of Emotional Support Animals on Flights”

Yesterday, the United States Department of Transportation (DOT) issued guidance to help travelers understand their rights while new regulations are being developed. The DOT is currently developing new rules to govern what types of animals will be allowed to accompany passengers on flights and what documentation will be required to determine a passenger's legitimate need.  The guidance document issued yesterday provides that airlines cannot limit the number of service animals on a flight, however, passengers with an animal that an airline deems too large, too heavy, or younger than four months of age are allowed to deny boarding. 

Service animals are those that have been trained to perform certain functions.  Current law requires that reasonable accommodations be provided for those using service dogs.  In contrast, no training is required for emotional support animals. 

The American Kennel Club (AKC) strongly supports public accommodations that allow individuals with disabilities to use service dogs.  The AKC also strongly condemns characterizing dogs as service animals when they are not, or attempting to benefit from a dog's service dog status when the individual using the dog is not a person with a disability. 

Click here to read AKC's July 2018 comments to the Department of Transportation regarding proposed rulemaking for service dogs. 

The guidance provides:

In agreement with AKC's breed-neutral policies, as expressed in our comment to DOT, airlines are not allowed to ban certain breeds of service animals. Any airline can prevent any specific animal from flying if it is determined to pose a health or safety threat. To enable an airline to determine whether an animal poses a health or safety threat, airlines can require reasonable documentation related to an animal's training, behavior, and vaccinations received. As required under current rules, airlines are not required to transport emotional support animals unless the passenger provides medical documentation of their need. Passengers who plan to travel with emotional support animals must give airlines advance notice. Airlines are permitted to require passengers with animals on flights eight hours or longer in length to provide documentation or proof that an animal will not need to relieve itself or can relieve itself in a way that will not create a sanitation issue. Airlines cannot limit the number of service animals on a flight. Similarly, passengers can bring up to three service animals on a flight. Airlines are not required to accept exotic animals on a flight.

Airlines now have 30 days to revise their operations to meet these current requirements. 

This latest clarification comes after the number of animals traveling with passengers in cabin has significantly increased since 2016, in large part due to the number of emotional support animals that accompany passengers.  Media reports have detailed an increasing number of bite incidents involving emotional support animals.  For example, in July a flight attendant had to receive stitches after she was bitten by an emotional support dog. 

Read Misuse of Service Dogs Hurts the Disabled and Responsible Dog Owners. 

AKC's Government Relations Department recently redesigned and continues to update its Regulatory Resource Center, which provides information on regulatory proposals and requirements from both the federal and state governments.  For more information, access the Regulatory Resource Center at https://akcgr.org/regcenter?1, or contact AKC Government Relations at doglaw@akc.org.