Present – Kevin, Jan, Margery, Chris
Excused – Elden
2025 Show
Judges agreed up on, and Margery has reached out to them. Facility dates are locked in, contract is in hand, not signed yet.
Elden had sent an email regarding a suggestion of combining affiliates with Michigan, and perhaps other states. We have a few members from each Great Lake state (Michigan, Minnesota, Illinois, in addition to Wisconsin members). Discussion ensued regarding our purpose (education, show, other). Merging brings benefits of scale – more members, more educational opportunities.
Also discussed declining attendance in show seminars and workshops. Many need basic 101 alpaca, short and sweet. More and more shows are combining to offer 2 and 3 shows per weekend, allowing owners to enter more competitions – such as halter and walking fleece. 2024 show finances still being finalized. 2025 Hotels are being looked at, dinner location being discussed. Clarion room fees $135 per night, possible room for dinner there. Holiday Inn approx $40-$50 more per night. Dinner entertainment being discussed (fashion show, fashion auction, something out of the box). Vendor space will be determined first, then dinner plans can proceed.
I Love Alpacas initiative which Elden introduced needs to be discussed at the next meeting, and how/who to spearhead the effort.
Open Herd update – no updates yet. New booking prototype released.
No update on logo, put on hold for now.
Meeting adjourned at 7:10 PM
Next meeting Monday October 28, 6 PM
Respectfully submitted by Secretary Christine Rogers.