Directors Message July 2009
Happy 4th of JULY!!
We are already into the second summer month and things are going full speed. All kinds of activities are out there so take your pick!
I had the opportunity to attend the Arabian Horse Assoc of DelMarVa/Blue Ridge AHA Expo and ACS show. Things were very nice and I enjoyed talking to many of the members. Also visited the NJ Adventure Shows for a meeting and got a chance to talk to members and exhibitors. Several things became abundantly clear that folks are "picking their spots" even more carefully, more options to show were desirable, activities more than payouts drew attention and finally need to qualify for anything wasn't high in importance. What was interesting is that while show numbers are down entries are up; less horses going in more classes!
REGION 15 SCHOLARSHIPS
I'm pleased to announce that the Scholarship Panel has selected the winners for 2009. After some discussion we have added a third scholarship for 2009. The winners are Brittany Butterworth, Kelly Corcoran and Steven Hay.
The panel will be reviewing the rules for 2010 and have an announcement before the first of the year in regards to the rules and qualifications. Please watch the Equine Journal and the Region 15 E-Mag for all the information.
REGIONAL MEETING AND ELECTIONS
The next Region 15 meeting will be August 16 in Frederick, Maryland. Elections for 2010 officers will be held at that time. As always all Region 15 members are welcome!
Board Action
In my May message I reported on the Board motion that appears below; I heard from a total of two members, both in agreement. This was not true of other Board members and owing to that AHA President Lance Walters is working on a survey of the membership in regards to the motion.
HUMANE TREATMENT OF EQUINE BREEDS & LIVESTOCK MOTION
Whereas, There is great concern regarding the humane treatment of all equine breeds and livestock, the Arabian Horse Association and the Arabian Horse Foundation actively supports equine rescue along with responsible livestock and horse ownership and breeding; Therefore, Be It
Moved, After extensive research as a Board of Directors we support the reopening of equine processing plants for horses in the U.S. We believe the reestablishment of the humane processing of horses is in the best interest of the horse and livestock community, and, therefore, direct our AHA President, Lance Walters, to support the reopening of U.S. equine processing facilities. Motion Passed Unanimously.
As always, I welcome your comments directly and direction through your club delegates.
When prices at sales have gone so far down that horses don't even bring a bid, you know we (general horse community) are in trouble. Recently at a sale, horses were dropped off, the "owner" left without registering them and the auction had to dispose of them.
Horses are being turned out in the national and state forests and left to fend for themselves. A "system" that was barely keeping its' head above water is now inundated and sinking fast!
MEMBERSHIP DRIVE RESULTS
I have heard from one club with their results of the membership drive. This will serve as a final notice to get those numbers to me if you want to receive the funding.
REGIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP SHOW
That will do it for now as I get ready to head to the Region 15 Championship Show. Right now there are 603 entries with 40 to 60 more expected and stalls are just about sold out. There are all kinds of activities planned both in and out of the ring and the barn parties promise to be better than ever; expect a "CROWN"ing achievement on Friday evening!!! I'll have more to report next month and then the AHA Board meets in August.
Have a great summer!! and see ya' down the road!!
Marty
Martin E. Kleiner, Director
Region 15 AHA
meekone@comcast.net
