Welcome to the next chapter in Region 15 communications. Our new E-magazine is just the start of things to come. As you "leaf" through the magazine please remember that it is one of the ways clubs and individuals can keep "in the know" and let others know what is happening in the clubs and around Region 15.
COMMUNICATIONS PLUS!
If you haven't heard by now we are attacking the communications gap on two fronts. The delegates voted at the March meeting to accept two proposals for publications.
First, to replace the Arabian News, I have signed a two year agreement with the Equine Journal. It will carry a page of club news in each issue IF supplied by the club. In a move to reduce subscription confusion the delegates vote to pay for the entire subscription for adult club/AHA members; local members and youth will be paid for by the individual clubs.
Second, the delegates also voted to fund the Region 15 E-magazine. This will be a monthly publication linked to the web site that will carry clubs news, ads and information. Advertising will also be available, full page only, for $125.00 per month. If the ad comes through a club or is noted to be, the club will receive a large portion of the ad price! Many thnx to Rob Simpson for all his efforts!!!
CONTEST!!!!!! Name the magazine!!
Rather than call the new publication E-magazine we are having a contest to name the magazine. Open to Region 15 club members only, the prize is $100 cash OR two free ads in the zine. Send your entries to: meekone@comcast.net or Region 15, PO Box 412, Schaefferstown, PA 17088-0412; Deadline is May 15, 2009.
MARCH AHA BOARD MEETING
The 2010 budget was reviewed and approved and there were some financial changes. Stall and entry fees were raised for all the national shows by $66.00 ($30 for stalls and $36 for entries); For U.S. the $50 office fee per class was changed to $50.00 per horse so some exhibitors may see a reduction in costs.
There may be a dues increase coming in the next two years. Rather than spring it at the last minute the directors were asked to work with the members so the acrimony does not approach what happened last time; the tentative amount was thought to be $5.00 to $8.00
Membership, registrations and even Sweepstakes entries are down but not as bad as most other breeds. There seems to be a consistent slide and there does not appear to be a reversal in the near future.
Speaking of Sweepstakes the point payout for 2008 was just over $20.00 per point.
A documentary produced by AHA is currently being shopped around to several networks for showing and hopefully will hit the airways in the next six months.
Scholarships
Don't forget that the Regional Scholarship competition is now going on! Applications may be found on the web site under PDF Forms. Prior winners are permitted to re-apply. Deadline for submission is May 30, 2009.
REGIONAL FUNDING SUPPORT UPDATE
The committee to review funding support has been named members are Donnie Bullock, Wayne Gavitt and Susan Holter. Applications are available on the region 15 web site under PDF forms. Clubs are encouraged to apply for the funding for any and all activities!! NOTE as of today I have received just TWO applications.
In addition at the August meeting I will be proposing a "Safety Net" for clubs that will be based upon the Region's income from the Regional show.
REGION 15 CHAMPIONSHIPS
Well, we've done it!! The prize list is complete and may be in your hands by now. If not you can go to www.Region15.com and leaf through it, down load a page or two or the ENTIRE thing. Thanks to Rob Simpson the whole prize list is on line and available to everyone. If you need extra entry blanks just click on and download, simple.
VOLUNTEERS: If you would like to volunteer for the show we have a form on the web site under pdf forms; please fill out and send to Gary Hooghkirk or call him with any questions.
NEW CATERER: With all the complaints and concerns last year I'm pleased to report we have a new caterer at VHC, Mrs. Rowe's. They will service the patrons lounge, provide volunteer meals and be an OPTION for the barn parties. Those hosting barn parties will be able to choose them or their own caterer.
BARN PARTIES: If you're interested in hosting a Barn Party please contact Cathie McDonald at stalldiva@gmail.com to get all the particulars. 2008 was the biggest and Best ever and we want to top it in 2009!!!
WING DING WELCOME: Be sure not to miss the Wing Ding Welcome hosted by the show and free to all exhibitors on Wednesday, July 1. It will be held ring side at Moore Area (covered ring) from 3 to 6 PM; you can even watch the Regional Reining at the same time.
DATES
With spring and summer the activities that revolve around our horses reach a hectic pace so be sure to keep track of what's doing and keep me posted on any dates that need to be added to the calendar. Be sure to take advantage of the web site www.Region15.com for all your needs and question.
Well, that'll do it for this month. Stay cool and dry!
Many thanks to all of you, who sent cards, notes and flowers of condolence in the passing of my sister, Sue. At 48 it was totally unexpected. A memorial service was held on Saturday, March 21.
May God Bless you all,
See ya' down the road.
Marty
Martin E. Kleiner, Director
Region 15 AHA
meekone@comcast.net
