The Hunt Ball

October 30th, 2004

This occasion marked the 25th Anniversary of

 The Annapolis Valley Hunt Club

 The Annapolis Valley Hunt Club Ball marked the 25th Anniversary of the club and was held on Saturday evening, October 30th, 2004 at Themba, the beautiful estate of Deborah & John Roy of Falmouth, N.S.  Among the 80 guests were members, friends and social members of the Hunt Club. It was nice to see folks all dressed up in gowns, tuxedos, formal pinks and even kilts. We were hardly recognizable without "hat head" from our riding helmets. No one has stopped talking about the venue, the meal and the band, the entire evening was nothing short of perfect! The ballroom was so beautifully lit up with starry white lights, and candlelit tables. Everywhere you turned there were accents of horses, hounds and foxes, even each of the dinner tables themed one of our canine members.  We are so grateful to Deborah & John Roy for this spectacular evening. We also recognize the hard work and long hours spent organizing this event by Deborah's sister, Norma White. How fortunate we are to have such wonderful friends, Thank You! As master Allister Marshall so eloquently stated "...is this a party or what!"  In between servings of a 6-course gourmet meal, couples danced, laughed, bid at the silent auction table and even tested their skill on the huntsman's horn. Most people, including myself (designated one of the "prom queens") made several frivolous attempts at blowing the horn and either ended up falling over or produced a noise that was similar to a 6 year old blowing out candles on a birthday cake. After listening to a dozen or so "tunes" the applause-meter rated whipper-in Nancy Marshall, and social member Phil Van Zoost as the winners. Other highly rated horn blowers included social members Mary Pratt, John Roy and Laura Chasmer, our host John Roy, our hostess Deborah Roy and huntsman Paul Johnston. Later on during the evening, several special presentations were made. Long time member and supporter Deborah Roy was honored with the AVH colors, and MFH Allister Marshall (one of the founders of the AVH) was honored with a sterling silver horn in appreciation of 25 years of dedication and service. Lastly, the silent auction table displayed no less than 25 items such as homemade pies, cakes, crafts, books, dinners, tours, tack, dog food, riding lessons, hotel stays, and a stallion breeding. Auction donations were made by various members, friends of the hunt, and local businesses. We are appreciate all who showed their support and generosity. The auction was a big success, raising just short of $2500. Money generated from this fundraiser will be used for expenses such as the feeding and care of our 14 new puppies and of course our adult hounds...the most important members of our club. 

The next Hunt Ball is planned for December 16th, 2006.