We bid farewell on July 10 to our huntsman Jamie Plaskitt, who is moving to Norway for at least a year. He leaves behind a pack of healthy, happy and hard-working hounds and our sincere thanks for his fine work as our huntsman for the past three years. We wish him the very best as he returns to his mother's family's country.

At a time of transition at the kennels Beth and Nina are taking on a larger role in managing the hounds with a lot of help from the very capable Hazel Hannon. Hazel is an Irish horsewoman who manages the stable at Stonehedge Farm near Middleburg for Julie and Eric Nettere, hunts with Orange County and helps with their hunter pace, point to point and team chase. She has both hound-and kid -appeal and brings expertise and enthusiasm to our program. We are thrilled that Hazel has joined our kennel team. On that note we want to thank the volunteers who have been so wonderful in helping walk out the hounds this summer, your help is greatly appreciated. The daily beagle will once again send out updates on beagle walks, and other activities by mid August, so stay tuned as our fall hunting season is right around the corner.

We are also pleased that the Piedmont Enviromental Council's Stewardship Program manager, James Barnes, is working with us to make sure MOC Beaglers and their families can take advantage of conservation programs planned this year in Fauquier and adjacent counties. James hosted a bird habitat program this spring in Orlean, with guests from the Bllue Ridge Wildlife Rehabilitation Center, a barrd owl, red tail hawk, oppossum and wood turtle. We will get the schedule out to you as soon as possible.