The BLU board has a year under its belt, having met a total of seven times during 2010. Many things have been accomplished, and 2011 opens with lots of new ideas to work on. The association is on firm footing financially, showing an increase in its treasury during 2010. During 2010, a set of bylaws were formally adopted by the board, and committees were formed to oversee projects. The third national show was held in Oregon during the Black Sheep Gathering, and was well attended. A quarterly newsletter, BLUPrint, was established, with several members contributing to articles throughout the year. The website was updated and revamped, and will continue to be improved upon. Two banners were designed and made available to the membership to use at their local events to promote BFLs. A formal procedure for proposals for the 2012 national show was adopted.
A new year brings new opportunities. The board has already met for its opening meeting in January, reviewing the financial situation and budgeting for 2011. It went over proposals for the 2012 National Show venue, and made its selection. The show will be held in Wooster, Ohio during the Great Lakes Fiber Show. Banner Sales holds a show and sale during this festival, and BFL breeders will have the opportunity to enter their sheep in the Banner sale if they so choose. The board kicked off the 2011 membership drive. Current members will be receiving a postcard in the mail soon, reminding all that 2011 dues need to be paid before the March 1st deadline. Don’t be late and risk missing out on the benefits that membership in BLU provides!