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MCHA DIRECTOR’S MEETING MINUTES
April 9, 2010 at Billings, Montana
Super Barn
Meeting called to order at
6:00 pm at the Billings Super Barn by president,
Theresa Nelson. Directors present were Bambi Gress,
Will Nuttall, Tom Campbell, and Michelle Van Dyke.
Director Cody Lee was available by phone if needed.
Also present were National director John L. Dublin,
Marketing & PR Advocate Molly Taylor, and
Secretary/Treasurer Kelly Heiken. Minutes from the
April 2 meeting were reviewed. There are 2 items
needing correction.
Old or Unfinished Business:
Twin Bridges Cutting –
Theresa gave an update of the status of the Twin
Bridges Cutting. Betty Lou Weeding has agreed to
run the practice pen. Discussion followed as to how
many panels will need to be ordered. Tom Campbell
and Will Nuttall plan to go on Monday, April 12, to
Twin Bridges to review what is needed. Michelle Van
Dyke reported she is working on a letter to send to
local business to recruit sponsors. It was
discussed what could be done to give recognition to
these sponsors. Molly Taylor will work on a
possible PowerPoint for this show with the sponsor’s
names on it. Putting the sponsor’s names on the
web-site as recognition was also mentioned. Molly
also discussed she could send out a teaser 3 weeks
before the show, and then again 1 week before the
show using Facebook. Molly and Michelle will work
together to create a flyer.
Circuit Awards for the Twin
Bridges show was discussed. Some of the ideas were
to have everyone’s name that got a 60 put in a pot
for an award or some other type of recognition.
Some of the award suggestions were horse sheets,
headstalls, horse boots, or feedbags. These are
items that could be produced for around $20. It was
asked for any available help for this show, to come
on Wednesday night and plan on a full day helping
prepare on Thursday and Friday before the show.
Will Nuttall reported on the
status of the June MCHA show. The location at
Roundup will not work. This show would have been a
good deal, however, the producer was not ready for
this year. Between Will Nuttall and Theresa Nelson
all show producers have been contacted in regards to
picking up this show. As of this time, the only
producer who was interested in taking on this show
was the Double D Creek Ranch. There was much
discussion that all of the state producers have been
contacted and do we want to continue with a June
MCHA show.
It was decided to continue
with plans for a June 12-13, 2010 show at the Double
D Creek Ranch in Columbus, spotlighting it as the
MCHA Summer Sizzler Show. This show will not be
co-produced, and will include a special $1500 Novice
Spectacular Event. This class will be a 2 day event
with a reduced rate and some type of award to the
circuit winner.
The Ogden program add was
reviewed and discussed the addition of the aged
event information.
The letter to the NCHA was
reviewed. John L. Dublin stated the facts of the
request of a new affiliate in the State. He has
spoken with several of the directors in Region 1 to
get their option. The NCHA will be making its
decision on this matter on April 16.
New Business:
The directors voted on two
names to submit for the Montana National directors
to be returned to the NCHA.
There being no other new
business Tom Campbell made a motions to adjourn the
meeting, seconded by Will Nuttall, the meeting was
adjourned at 6:50pm, the next meeting was not
scheduled at this time.
MCHA DIRECTOR’S MEETING MINUTES
April 2, 2010 at Columbus, Montana
Meeting called to order at 6:10 pm at Double D Creek
Arena by president, Theresa Nelson. Other directors
present were Bambi Gress, Suzanne Nellen, Will
Nuttall, Tom Campbell, Michelle Van Dyke, Dave Weyer,
and Mike Willey. Director Cody Lee was available by
phone if needed. Minutes were distributed for
approval and unanimously approved by as read.
Theresa updated the group on the appointment of
Kelly Heiken as Administrative Secretary/Treasurer
and an MCHA checking account was set up and approved
for Kelly to sign as representative of MCHA. Theresa
and Kelly will have authorization from the Board to
sign on that account. Theresa announced that she has
been in contact with Kelly and that they are
reviewing her duties and Shirley Williams will also
be working with Kelly through April to make the
transition smooth.
Molly Taylor was welcomed as our new Marketing and
PR advocate and she brought to the table many good
suggestions on ways to help our Association’s image
and get some publicity rolling. Molly has already
set up a Facebook link and is working to promote our
shows and recognize members who excel at shows.
We received an update from Will Nuttall on the
Roundup show and it looks like we are going to
postpone having a show there until next year. The
producer just isn’t ready for this season but will
continue to work with him so it will be a quality
show for next season. Since this show is not taking
place, a motion was made and passed that Will
contact the existing show producers in the State to
find out if they want to make a proposal to MCHA to
fill in on this date. This will still be an MCHA
produced show so MCHA directors will need to review
all proposals.
The directors discussed having a year end show at
the Copper Springs Ranch in Bozeman. Bambi and
Suzanne Nellen met with the manager and promotions
person and it was suggested that the show committee
check the facility out before we commit to anything.
Copper Springs Ranch will still be contacted as a
sponsor of the Twin Bridges cutting and they will be
invited to bring their mobile veterinary unit to
that cutting.
A motion was made by Theresa Nelson, and seconded by
Will Nuttall that the board will pursue the idea of
working with the Copper Springs Ranch in Bozeman to
co-produce the MCHA Year End Show. The motion was
approved by all members with a unanimous vote.
A motion was made and passed to have Theresa Nelson
as president and Molly Taylor as the PR person put
together a letter to the NCHA to inform them on our
stance regarding a new affiliate being proposed.
Details of the Twin Bridges cutting were discussed
and show committee members were going to make a trip
to Twin Bridges to determine what needed to be done
before the show and how many panels would be
required for main cutting pen and practice pen. They
would also stop at Copper Springs to assess that
facility for future use.
MCHA was short a 15,000 Novice Non-pro Corporate
Sponsorship and Michelle Van Dyke agreed to pick up
that sponsorship.
Meeting was adjourned at 7:30 and next meeting will
be at 6:00 Friday, April 9 at the Billings show.
MCHA Board Meeting Minutes
March 19, 2010 – Billings, MT
Present: Will Nuttall, Tom Campbell, Suzanne Nellen,
Michelle Van Dyke, Theresa Nelson, Bambi Gress, Dave
Weyer, Mike Willey
Meeting was called to order by President Theresa
Nelson at 7:15 PM at the cutting barn at the
Billings Fairgrounds. John L. Dublin was invited to
attend to fill the board in on the status of the
request of a new affiliate in the State. John stated
the facts of the situation and reported that the
majority of the NCHA Directors were supporting the
MCHA Director’s position that another affiliate
would not be advantageous to Montana cutting. The
NCHA would have the ultimate decision on whether
they would approve another affiliate or not.
A vote was called to approve the minutes of the last
director’s meeting and financials as published on
the website. All were in favor of approval with the
minutes noting that the carryover of the bill for
last year’s saddles would be included in the 2010
financials as an actual expense in the 2009 year.
Motion passed.
Status of the MCHA license plate was reported on and
production according to Todd Wirthlin’s
correspondence would be in April.
Youth scholarship update was addressed and Will was
going to talk to Kathy Foote to get the latest
status. The April cutting in Billings will be one of
the designated youth scholarship cuttings and Will
and Kathy will get together to decide which other
cuttings will be chosen as scholarship cuttings.
Theresa Nelson asked that she be reimbursed $189.00
for the banners that were made for MCHA recognizing
our Top 15 NCHA standings qualifiers and the MCHA
banner used in the arena at shows. Motion was made
by Dave Weyer, seconded by Suzanne Nellen and
passed.
Discussion was held regarding details on the Twin
Bridges cutting. We unanimously agreed that Theresa
should ask Betty Lou Weeding to monitor the practice
pen there. Sheila Kirkpatrick will be doing the
announcing and Tom Campbell had asked Russ Miller to
judge. Theresa will send Russ a contract. PGN stalls
in Oregon were contacted for a quote on furnishing
portable stalls and they quoted $75/stall with a
minimum of 60 stalls to be delivered. There would
also be stalls on site which could be leased through
the show. We would publish that the portable stalls
would be first come first served and that a deposit
would be required to reserve.
Cody Lee was the only board member that was not
present, due to moving the meeting, and therefore he
was called to teleconference for discussion
regarding the hiring of a secretary. It was a very
close vote and all the candidates that had applied
were excellent candidates. After the votes were
tallied, Kelly Heiken was appointed as Executive
Secretary/Treasurer. Since Kelly will be our
Executive Secretary/Treasurer she will be opening a
checking account where she will have the authority
to act on behalf of MCHA to sign checks on the MCHA
bank account along with Theresa Nelson as President.
Theresa will review the duties of the secretary with
Kelly and Kelly will also be working with Shirley
Williams through April.
Molly Taylor would be asked to contribute toward
making her a promotional representative for MCHA. In
light of the turmoil taking place within the
association, it would be good to have a liaison to
get some continuity and positive press for the
group. Molly had agreed that she would bring to the
table some ideas and background that might benefit
the association.
Will Nuttall gave an update of the proposed Roundup
Cutting. He said that the producer would agree to
put $499 in all added money classes at his cost so
the association would not be responsible for that
cost. Will was going to meet with Toby Dahl to
finalize the details before he sent information on
to Shaun Pichler for NCHA approval.
A letter from Cindy Stefka was read to the board
regarding the returned check policy and it was
unanimously agreed that the policy was already
addressed on a National level so the MCHA should
remove this policy from our site. The NCHA has
always had a returned check policy in place and any
NCHA approved shows should refer to that policy for
questions.
Since Cody did not get to attend the full board
meeting, the board members agreed to have an
informal gathering on Saturday immediately following
the cutting to get input from his area and to
basically find out if he wanted any issues
addressed. This gathering did take place and Kelley
was also welcomed as our new Secretary.
We will have another Board meeting at the Columbus
show at 6:00 pm on Friday, April 2, 2010. Motion was
made by Bambi Gress to adjourn and seconded by
Suzanne Nellen.
Click here to view the January 23, 2010
Director's Meeting Minutes
MINUTES OF MCHA GENERAL MEMBERSHIP MEETING
Held at Trades and Industry Building
Montana ExpoPark
Great Falls, Montana
October 4, 2009
The MCHA General Membership meeting was called to
order by President, Todd Wirthlin at 9:02 a.m. on
October 4, 2009 at the Trades and Industry Building
at the Montana ExpoPark at Great Falls, Montana.
There were 34 members present.
Todd Wirthlin thanked all involved in organizing and
attending the year-end show, auction, banquet and
activities. It was stated that Montana ExpoPark was
a good venue to hold the year-end show and
activities.
The minutes from the General Membership Meeting of
June 6, 2009, were distributed and read. The
financial statement dated October 1, 2009, with a
balance of $34,039.26 was distributed and read. Note
that four saddles and some year-end awards still
need to be paid along with other year-end expenses.
Upon a motion by Michelle Van Dyke, seconded by Mike
Willey, the minutes and financial statement were
unanimously approved.
Reports:
NCHA Report: The NCHA Convention was held in
Denver, Colorado in June. National Directors John
Dublin and Buddy Westphal reported on the convention
highlights. They stated it was a great convention
and if anyone ever has the chance to attend a
convention they should.
Some of the recommendations of the standing
committees from the convention include the
following. (1) The $10,000 Amateur will be become
the $15,000 Amateur and the $20,000 Non Pro will
become the $35,000 Non Pro beginning with the 2010
point year. (2) A new Non-Pro/Amateur Review
Committee will be established. (3) The schedule for
the Super Stakes and Summer Spectacular will be
modified so that all Open competition is completed
before the Amateur and Non-Pro classes begin. (4)
NCHA shall impose stricter penalties for violations
of its animal drug rules. (5) Rules for the
frequency of shows will be altered. (6) Some changes
will be made to Limited Age Events. (7) AQHA/NCHA
Affiliate Challenge standings may be determined by
points or earnings. No ties for 10th place, they
will be broken according to the affiliate's bylaws.
Ogden will be the site of the Western Nationals for
the next 5 years. (8) New members of standings
committees will be appointed with representatives
from each region. (9) Judges will be required to
sign a Judges' Code of Ethics. Some judges rules
were altered including Judges Rule 9 example 6 note
- that regardless if the rider's hand is up or down
will be inserted. (10) NCHA convention will be held
in the Dallas/Fort Worth area every other year,
alternating between the western and eastern states
in the other years. Hall of Fame inductees' ceremony
will be a feature of the Convention. (11) Each
affiliate is encouraged to promote youth at their
cuttings and work with high school cuttings and
jackpot cuttings to gain membership (12) Options
were outlined for producing combined NCHA/ AQHA
weekend shows.
For more information about the convention, contact
Buddy Westphal or John Dublin. They are our Montana
representatives and welcome suggestions and
comments.
Old Business: There was no Old Business.
New Business:
Eastern/ Western National Championships:
There will be more added money at both Eastern and
Western National Championships. All members are
encouraged to attend Western and, if possible,
Eastern championships. Montana has done extremely
well at Western National Championships considering
how our participation numbers compare to other
affiliates. President, Todd Wirthlin, will consider
any suggestions, such as the affiliate help pay for
stalls, etc. on how to get more people involved
competing at Ogden.
Youth Participation at Cutting: Youth class
numbers are down. It is thought this is due to many
factors one of them being economics. Any suggestions
on how to get more youth involved in cutting are
welcome. Contact Todd Wirthlin.
Election: President, Todd Wirthlin, thanked
Betty Lou Weeding, Becky Darrow, Sara Chamberlin,
Audrey O'Keefe and Gayle Weber for conducting the
election. Directors elected for two years are Tom
Campbell, Bambi Gress, Cody Lee and Suzanne Nellen.
President is Theresa Nelson and the new Vice
President is Will Nuttall. Youth Director is
MacKenzie Banner. It was stated the election results
were very close and thanked all those who ran for
director and officer positions. Todd also thanked
the outgoing board for all of their hard work.
Todd announced there would be a Producer meeting
following the General Membership meeting and all are
welcome to attend.
Being there was no further business to discuss, John
Seymour moved to adjourn the meeting. The motion was
seconded by Donald Weeding and unanimously passed.
The meeting was adjourned at 9:45 a.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Shirley Williams
Montana CHA Secretary/Treasurer
MINUTES OF MCHA PRODUCERS MEETING
An informal meeting with producers and other
interested people was held following the General
Membership Meeting on October 4, 2009 at the Trades
and Industry Building at the Montana ExpoPark at
Great Falls.
Todd Wirthlin called the meeting to order and
thanked everyone that was in attendance. There were
31 in attendance. He then turned the meeting over to
Theresa Nelson, Vice – President –who is in charge
of shows, to conduct the meeting.
2009 Show Feedback – Will Nuttall voiced his concern
that not many Directors helped set-up for the
year-end show. Many people said if help was needed,
then it should have been asked for. Many directors
and others did a lot of work besides setting up for
the show in order to make the year-end cutting,
auction, banquet, etc. successful. It was stated
Montana ExpoPark was not a "turn-key" facility for a
cutting. The readiness of a venue for cutting needs
to be addressed in selecting sites for future
year-end cuttings.
Producer's Proposed 2010 Show Schedule – Producers
were asked about their intended 2010 show schedule.
Dave Weyer stated he would probably produce two
shows. Bill & Jann Parker sent a letter stating
their intent to produce two shows, one in March and
one in April. The same amount of added money and
fresh cattle would be offered. John Stefka stated he
planned to perhaps do three day shows in May, June,
July and August but depending on availability of
cattle could do some earlier or later.
It was suggested to have fewer shows next year. It
was thought if there weren't cuttings every weekend
would get more cutters at the cuttings. Suggestions
on cuttings in different areas of the state, such
as, Lewistown were suggested. It was noted that one
producer is working on a producing a cutting in
Lewistown.
Discussion was held on three-day shows vs. two-day
shows. It was suggested to have shows at fairs but
then it takes work to put the cutting on and "sell"
it to the fairs.
It was suggested that the membership needs to be
educated regarding the costs of putting on a cutting
and the fixed expenses. Membership needs to be
educated regarding cow costs, video costs, etc.
It was stated that in Montana, currently with the
added money at the shows, you can place at a few
shows and will be in the National CHA standings.
Discussion was held on how much added money a
cutting should offer. Also discussion on lower fees
for re-run cattle was held. It was stated often
times the way the cattle are handled before entering
the show pen determine how they work.
Early MCHA approval for shows is requested so that
producers can lease facility, contract cattle,
advertise, etc.
All shows producers planning cuttings in the months
of January, February, March and April need to submit
show dates to the Vice President by November 1 for
review and consideration for approval by the
existing MCHA Board of Directors.
It was noted Producers do the best they can to
produce the best shows.
Donald Weeding moved to adjourn the meeting. Todd
Banner seconded the motion, which passed.
Respectfully submitted,
Shirley Williams
Montana CHA Secretary/Treasurer
To: MCHA Members
Re: Notice of MCHA General Membership Meeting
Place: Montana ExpoPark
Great Falls, Montana
Date: October 4, 2009
Time: 9:00 a.m.
Tentative Agenda:
I. Meeting Called to Order
II. Minutes & Financial Statement
III. Reports
IV. Old or Unfinished Business
1. MCHA License Plates Status
2. Any Other Old Business
V. New Business
1. Election Results
2. Any Other New Business
VI. Meeting Adjourned
Please note – a meeting with show producers to
discuss the 2010 cutting schedule
will follow the General Membership meeting. Everyone
is welcome to attend.
The year-end show produced by Montana CHA will be at
the Montana ExpoPark in Great Falls, Montana,
Friday, October 2 and Saturday, October 3 (two
separate shows). Entries for the year-end show will
close on Tuesday, September 29. Enter on-line at the
MCHA website, www.montanacha.com or call Shaun
Pichler at 406-780-1030. Note - 100 new "used"
portable stalls have been set-up in the Pavilion and
the NW Barn (located right next to the Pavilion) for
our use.
The awards banquet and auction are scheduled for
Saturday, October 3 at the Trades and Industries
Building at the Montana ExpoPark in Great Falls. The
General Membership Meeting will be at the Montana
ExpoPark on Sunday, October 4 beginning at 9 a.m.
Host hotel is the O'Haire Motor Inn, 1st Avenue
South & 7th Street South, Great Falls. Rooms are
$55.50 plus tax for 1 queen and $62.50 plus tax for
2 Queens. Mention you are with the Montana Cutting
Horse Association for the rates. The cut-off date
for these room rates is Saturday, September 26.
Phone 1-800-332-9819 for reservations.
Auction – Call Audrey O'Keefe at 406-782-4540 or
Michelle Morris at 406-273-7667 to list your auction
items. The auction is the major fundraiser for the
MCHA. Please support it by donating and purchasing
items. Auction items will be listed on the website.
If you are unable to attend the auction and would
like to place a phone bid, contact Audrey or
Michelle for details.
Banquet – Saturday, October 3, $30 per person,
includes gratuity. A child's menu is available for
$10, includes gratuity. Contact Vickie Stewart at
406-961-4059 or Gayle Weber at 406-546-9028 for
reservations. Reservations (including children) need
to be made by Monday, September 28. We need to
notify the cater in advance, so please get your
reservation to either Vickie or Gayle. The buffet
menu (catered by the O'Haire) includes prime rib or
roasted turkey breast (carved by the Chef), fresh
salad greens with assorted dressings, roasted red
potatoes with fresh rosemary, green beans with
toasted almonds and raspberry and white chocolate
cheese brulee cheesecake. The no host social hour
begins at 7 p.m. with dinner at 8 p.m. Awards and
auction to follow. The O'Haire Motor Inn will have a
hotel shuttle available to shuttle people to and
from the banquet/awards/auction.
The Never Won A Buckle finals will be held Saturday,
October 3. Come cheer for all the contestants. The
winner receives a saddle donated by MCHA.
We will give away four saddles this year. All the
year-end class winners will have a chance to win one
saddle in a drawing as has been done in the past.
Also this year — one saddle will be awarded in a
drawing to contestants entering and showing at the
year-end show. The name will be drawn during the
awards presentation at the banquet on Saturday,
October 3. The winner must be present to win the
saddle. Owner and rider names will be entered in the
drawing upon entering the year-end show. Must enter
both days of year-end show to qualify for the
saddle.
Schedule:
Auction – call Audrey O'Keefe at 406-782-4540 or
Michelle Morris at 406-273-7667 to list auction
items so a list can be placed on the website.
Wednesday, September 23, 2009 – MCHA Election
Ballots due to Betty Lou Weeding
Monday, September 28, 2009 – Banquet reservations
(including children's reservations) due to
Vickie Stewart at 406-961-4049 or Gayle Weber at
406-546-9028.
Tuesday, September 29, 2009 – Enter year-end show by
10 p.m. Enter on website or call
Shaun Pichler at 406-780-1030.
Friday, October 2, 2009 -- 8:00 a.m. - MCHA cutting
at Montana ExpoPark, Great Falls, MT
Saturday, October 3, 2009 –
7:00 a.m. - MCHA cutting at Montana ExpoPark – Great
Falls
7:00 p.m. - No-Host Cash Bar at Trade and Industries
Building at Montana ExpoPark
8:00 p.m. - Dinner (Prime Rib Buffet). Year-End
Awards & Auction following dinner at Montana
ExpoPark. (Must be present at awards banquet to win
saddle.)
Sunday, October 4, 2009
9:00 a.m. – General Membership Meeting at Montana
ExpoPark. Producer meeting to follow.
This is your show. The more help we have, the more
successful it will be. Contact Todd Wirthlin at
406-756-1500 if you can help in any way or wish to
sponsor a class. Thank you to everyone who has
already offered to help.
Please plan to attend all of these activities and
the General Membership Meeting.
Remember your MCHA Ballot needs to be postmarked by
September 23. Don't forget, mark and return your
ballot to Betty Lou Weeding as soon as possible.
See you in Great Falls!
Sincerely,
Shirley Williams
MCHA Secretary/Treasurer
MINUTES OF MCHA DIRECTORS MEETING
County Fairgrounds
Big Timber, Montana
July 11, 2009
The Montana CHA Director's meeting was called to
order by Vice President, Theresa Nelson on Saturday,
July 11, 2009. Present were Theresa Nelson, Shirley
Williams, Todd Banner, Karla Camp, Michelle Van
Dyke, Donald Weeding, Dave Weyer and Mike Willey.
Todd Wirthlin was absent but participated via
telephone.
The minutes dated June 4, 2009 and the financial
statement dated January 1, 2009 through July 11,
2009 were reviewed and approved.
Old Business:
NWAB Class: Mike Willey reported he talked with Van
Greenwell regarding purchasing a saddle for the NWAB
finals. Van does not have a price but said it will
be more than last year. Last year the saddle cost
$750. Mike stated he might have another NWAB
sponsor. This should be confirmed soon. Discussion
was held on the saddle. Don Weeding moved and Karla
Camp seconded the motion to buy the saddle from Van
Greenwell providing it does not cost more than
$1,000. The motion passed.
Nomination Report: Don Weeding gave the nominations
that they have for the MCHA ballot so far. President
– Theresa Nelson. Vice President – Michelle Van Dyke
& Will Nuttall. The following have agreed to run for
Director - Chris Basham, John Beug, Cindy Garoutte,
Bambi Gress, Cody Lee, Scott McWatters, Lou Morris,
Jann Parker, Shaun Pichler and John Seymour.
MacKenzie Banner and Wyatt Nuttall will be placed on
the ballot for youth director. Nominations will
remain open until July 31.
This year four directors will be elected to the
board plus the President and Vice President, which
means there will be six new members on the board.
Next year three directors will be elected.
Discussion was held on "evening" out those being
elected so that five would be new to the board one
year and four the next year. Discussion was held on
appointing a director from the three directors and
President leaving the board for a one-year term.
Shirley Williams questioned the legality of this,
since in the Constitution it states a
Director/Officer may not succeed themselves - once
having served a two year term a person is not
eligible to run for one year. The majority of the
board thought an exception could be made. Don
Weeding moved that Todd Banner retain his position
as a director on the Board for one year. Dave Weyer
seconded the motion, which passed. The legality of
this appointment will be checked with an attorney.
Year-end Awards - Dave Weyer reported on year-end
awards. He stated the collapsible wheel barrel
company is out of business. The following awards
were suggested first – Tres Rios Buckles, second -
silver bit, third - loping headstall, fourth - hair
on hide duffel bags, fifth- Lou Morris hoof picks.
Shirley stated MCHA does have $200 worth of Gist
gift certificates available and suggested Gist
Buckles be purchased but the majority agreed on Tres
Rios buckles.
Don Weeding moved and Mike Willey seconded that Dave
Weyer order the year-end awards. The motion passed.
Year-end show Option or Banquet only Option– Theresa
Nelson reported the Montana Expo Park has submitted
a bid for the year-end show. They have proposed
having the show October 2 & 3, 2009. The Livestock
Pavilion would be used for the cutting. A grant has
been received so the facility would be donated.
There would be at least 80 new portable stalls
available in the Pavilion and in the NW Barn
(located next to the Pavilion). Cost per stall is
$25, which includes one bag of shavings. The stall
fee would be split $10 to MCHA, $10 to Montana Expo
and $5 for shavings. The O'Haire Motor Inn would be
the host hotel and would also host the
banquet/auction/meeting. The dinner would cost $25
per person. Extra sand is available at no charge and
grooming equipment will be provided at no additional
charge to MCHA. Dave Weyer moved to approve the bid
for the year-end show Oct 2 and 3 at Montana Expo
Park in Great Falls and the banquet/auction for Oct
3 at O'Haire Motor Inn at Great Falls and the
meeting October 4 at O'Haire's. Don Weeding seconded
the motion, which passed. Montana Expo Park will be
contacted and asked for a contract.
Sapphire September 26 & 27 Show Approval: Theresa
reported she emailed the board regarding approval
for the Sapphire Event Center cutting September 26
and 27. The Board approved the cutting with the
stipulation that this cutting would not get priority
for those dates next year.
Custom License Plates for MCHA Revenue: Some Board
members were approached by membership and they were
concerned about the statement, "Montana Cowhorse",
on the proposed custom license plate and design of
the plate. Discussion was held. Todd Wirthlin
refreshed the group about the origin of the design
and that the statement or theme needs to be generic
so that the plate will be desired by all Montanans,
not just MCHA members. He worked with a graphic
artist and tried to incorporate mountains or bluffs
on the license plate, but a certain area of the
plate is reserved for the numbers and letters and
these need to be legible and readable from a
distance. The mountain/bluffs had to be "washed out"
so much that one could not see them. Several other
statements were suggested besides "Montana Cowhorse"
for the license plate. Dave Weyer moved to put
"Montana, The Ride of Your Life" on the license
plate and to try to "tame" the hair on the mane.
Mike Willey seconded the motion, which passed. Mike
Willey moved and Michelle Van Dyke seconded a motion
to use the blue license plate. The motion passed.
Todd Wirthlin will proceed with this project.
New Business:
Producers Meeting at Year-End Show: It was suggested
to have a producer's meeting after the General
Membership meeting at Great Falls to work on goals
and expectations for the show schedule for 2010. All
producers will be invited to meet with the Board and
the general membership will also be able to voice
their desires, opinions, etc.
Year-End Show Committees, Auction and Banquet–
Committees were formed for the year-end show,
banquet/auction. The following people were suggested
for committees. Announcer – Betty Lou Weeding or
Drew Stewart, Concession – Deb Weyer (if MCHA is
allowed to be the food vendor), Judges – Dave Weyer
and Todd Wirthlin, Cattle – Todd Banner, Show
Secretary – Shaun Pichler and Theresa Nelson will
work this out, Practice Pen – Betty Lou Weeding,
Video – Three Pines Productions, Cattle Helpers –
Don Weeding and Dave Weyer (they said they would
donate a portion of their wages back to MCHA),
Sponsorships – Todd Banner, Theresa Nelson, Sue
Thompson (with Montana Expo Park) and Karla Camp,
Auction/Silent auction – Audrey O'Keefe and Michelle
Morris, Awards – Dave Weyer (chairman) Karla Camp,
Banquet – Deb and Dave Weyer and Karla Camp,
Photographer – Laurie Errington or Lorie Davis.
General Membership Meeting: It was decided to hold
the General Membership meeting at the O'Haire Motor
Inn on Sunday morning, October 4, with the
producer/director meeting to follow.
By-Law Change to Set Date for Year-End Show:
Discussion was held on proposing a by-law change to
reserve the last weekend in September for the
Year-end show. It was decided not to make a By-Law
change and to leave the selection to the Board as to
holding a year-end show and selecting a date.
Most Inspirational Person: Discussion was held on
giving an award to an individual that exemplifies
good sportsmanship, is an inspiration to other
cutters and supportive of all cutters. People were
suggested for this award. The board made a selection
for the inspirational award and this person will be
announced at the awards banquet.
Senior Youth Rookie and Junior Youth Rookie: Youth
rookies were discussed. Unanimous selections were
made for senior and junior youth rookies and will be
announced at the awards banquet.
Date for Next Board Meeting - President, Todd
Wirthlin will set the date for the next board
meeting as needed.
There being no further business to discuss, Dave
Weyer moved to adjourn the meeting. Mike Willey
seconded the motion, which passed. Meeting
adjourned.
Respectfully submitted,
Shirley Williams
MCHA Secretary/Treasurer
NOTE: After the meeting, Attorney, Suzanne Nellen,
was asked for a legal opinion taking into
consideration the MCHA Constitution and the current
Board appointing an outgoing director (Todd Banner)
to a one-year director position for 2010. She stated
she feels the Board cannot appoint Todd Banner for a
one-year position because he cannot succeed himself.
The following options are open to the Board: (1)
Leave as is, electing four directors and President
and Vice President this year and three directors the
following year or (2) Making an amendment (which
would require a membership vote) to allow the Board
to appoint one director from the exiting directors
for a one year term, or make an amendment change for
this year’s only exiting directors to succeed
themselves and be put on the ballot.
There is not enough time to have a general
membership meeting for a vote before the ballot is
sent. Directors were informed of the situation and
polled and the consensus is to leave as is, electing
four directors and the President and Vice President
this year.
MINUTES OF MCHA GENERAL MEMBERSHIP MEETING
Held at Double D Creek Ranch Arena
Columbus, Montana
June 6, 2009
The MCHA General Membership meeting was called to
order by President, Todd Wirthlin at 1:25 p.m. on
June 6, 2009, at the Double D Creek Ranch Arena at
Columbus, Montana. 35 members were present.
The minutes from the General Membership Meeting of
September 28, 2008, and the financial statement
dated June 4, 2009, were distributed and reviewed.
Upon a motion by Donald Weeding, seconded by Mike
Willey, the minutes were unanimously approved. Upon
a motion by John Beug, seconded by Michelle Van
Dyke, the financial statement was unanimously
approved.
Old Business:
Custom License Plates – Todd Wirthlin explained in
order to pursue custom license plates for MCHA
revenue, the association needs to change its
nonprofit status. It is currently a 501 (C) 7 –
recreational. It needs to be a 501 (C) 3 –
charitable in order for MCHA to be able to offer the
special license plates to the public for sale
through the state. John Seymour moved for MCHA to
pursue changing nonprofit status for the association
from a 501 (C) 7 to a 501 (C) 3. The motion passed
unanimously after being seconded by Darrell Lee.
Todd Wirthlin showed samples of two different
license plates that Tim Cox custom designed for MCHA
and the Board has discussed. They will be on display
for the remainder of the cutting.
Horse of the Year - Todd Banner explained the point
system that will determine the top five "Horse of
the Year" nominations that will be placed on the
ballot for MCHA members to vote and select Horse of
the Year. Points are given to the top three money
earners in classes at MCHA approved cuttings. Three
points for top horse, two points for second placing
horse and one point for third placing horse. A list
of the top horses to date will be posted.
There was no other old business.
New Business:
Proposed Changes to Constitution: The proposed
changes to the constitution – by laws were sent to
all MCHA members. The proposed changes were
reviewed.
Proposed Changes to Montana Cutting Horse
Association Constitution – By Laws
June 6, 2009
Article III – Meetings of the Membership
(Delete) Section 7: Voting by Proxy shall be
permitted provided such proxy is validated by the
member’s NCHA number, which must appear on his/her
ballot.
Section 8 then becomes Section 7 and Section 9
becomes Section 8.
Section 7: Not less than thirty (30) days prior to
the annual meeting of the members, the President
shall appoint a Nominating Committee consisting of
members in good standing. It shall prepare a list of
one or more persons for each office and each
position on the Board of Directors. The members will
then receive ballots by mail with the nominations
and spaces for write-in candidates. Members will
then mail in ballots, validated by their (delete)
NCHA numbers (insert) signed MCHA membership
verification form; said ballots will be counted and
new officers will be announced at the annual
meeting.
Article IV – Directors and Meeting of the Directors
Section 1: The Board of Directors shall consist of
(delete) three (3) officers; President,
Vice-President, Secretary-Treasurer and six (6)
elected Board members (insert) two (2) officers:
President and Vice-President and seven (7) elected
Board members. All members of the Board of Directors
must be in good standing with the MCHA and in good
standing with the NCHA. The Directors shall be
elected by a majority vote of the membership. Each
MCHA member shall have the right to vote with one
vote each for as many persons as there are Directors
to be elected to the Board of Directors, but no
cumulative voting shall be allowed.
Article V – Officers
Section 1: The officers consisting of the President
(insert) and Vice-President (delete) and
Secretary-Treasurer, shall be elected by the
membership, by mail-in ballot.
Section 2: The elected officers will automatically
become members of the Board of Directors. The
President and Vice President terms shall hold office
for two (2) years. (delete) The Secretary-Treasurer
shall be elected every year. (Insert) The Executive
Secretary-Treasurer shall be appointed by the Board
of Directors of MCHA. The Past President will not
automatically be on the Board of Directors. After
the two-year term the President and Vice President
may not succeed themselves but may run for another
position. Officer and Director terms of office shall
be concurrent with the calendar year.
Section 5: (insert) The Executive
Secretary-Treasurer will be hired by the Board of
Directors and will be a non-voting position. The
(insert) Executive Secretary-Treasurer shall keep
the minutes of all meetings of members and Directors
and keep and safeguard the records of this
Association. He/she shall print the minutes of
meetings in the newsletter and shall issue all
notices of meetings of members and Directors
including an agenda; keep the membership rolls;
issue membership cards; receive and provide
safekeeping for the funds of the MCHA; keep a yearly
point system of horses and riders qualifying for the
high point awards of the year; and perform all other
duties and services
Upon a motion by Donald Weeding, seconded by Sandy
Brown, the proposed changes were unanimously passed.
Nominations – Anyone wanting to run for a MCHA
office or director position needs to contact Donald
Weeding by July 31 so that the ballot can be printed
and mailed to MCHA members.
Year-end Show - Two bids were submitted for the
year-end show. More information needs to gathered
and reviewed before the Board will make a decision
as to the location and date. It was stated to
contact your directors for information on the
proposals and to voice your opinion as to the
location and date.
Being there was no further business to discuss,
Shauna Cooper moved to adjourn the meeting. Debra
Weyer seconded the motion. Motion passed. Meeting
adjourned at 1:50 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Shirley Williams
Montana CHA Secretary/Treasurer
MCHA Minutes
July 7, 2009
The Montana Cutting Horse Association Board of
Directors were polled regarding approving the
Sapphire Event Center cutting September 26 and
September 27.
The Board unanimously approved the Sapphire Cutting
on September 26 and 27. This approval came following
the withdrawal of the Sapphire’s year-end show
proposal for that same weekend. These dates were
approved for this year only, with regards that this
weekend has been previously MCHA’s year-end show
dates. With that in mind, no date preference will
automatically be given for next year. John and Cindy
Stefka, Sapphire cutting producers were informed of
this decision and thanked for producing shows and
supporting MCHA.
Respectfully submitted,
Shirley Williams
Montana CHA Secretary/Treasurer
MINUTES OF MCHA DIRECTORS MEETING
DD CREEK RANCH
June 4, 2009
The Montana CHA Director's meeting was called to
order by President, Todd Wirthlin on Thursday, June
4, 2009. Present were Todd Wirthlin, Theresa Nelson,
Shirley Williams, Todd Banner, Karla Camp, Michelle
Van Dyke, Donald Weeding, Dave Weyer and Mike
Willey.
The financial statement dated January 1, 2009
through June 4, 2009 was reviewed. Upon a motion by
Donald Weeding, seconded by Karla Camp, the
financial statement was unanimously approved.
A change in the published agenda was made. Scott
McWatters was on the agenda to speak around 7 p.m.
Since it was close to that time, Scott was invited
to talk before the board conducted the old and new
business.
MCHA Regional Proposal: Scott McWatters presented a
proposal to the board that he thought might help
increase participation in MCHA and cuttings. Some of
the informal discussion centered around having
regions with cuttings and directors elected from
that particular region, past history of MCHA,
competition, fixed costs of NCHA/MCHA approved
cuttings, representation to board and unity of MCHA.
Old Business:
Youth Scholarship Committee Report: No report.
Custom License Plates for MCHA Revenue: Todd
Wirthlin explained MCHA needs to be a 501C (3),
which is charitable in order to continue with the
license plate project. MCHA is currently a 501C (7),
which is recreational. Theresa moved to pursue
changing from a 501 C (7) to a 501 C (3). Michelle
Van Dyke seconded the motion, which passed. This
will be discussed at the General Membership meeting
on Saturday, June 6, since it is on the agenda. Todd
showed the same samples of two license plates that
he showed to the Board at the April board meeting
that Tim Cox has designed. One is blue background
and the other is white background.
Horse of the Year – Point System: Shirley Williams
stated points are given to the top three money
earners in classes at MCHA approved cuttings. Three
points for top horse, two points for second placing
horse and one point for third placing horse. The
point system will determine the top five horses that
will be placed on the ballot for MCHA members to
vote and select Horse of the Year. She distributed a
list of the top horses to date.
NWAB Class – Mike Willey reported sponsors are
needed for fresh cattle for the NWAB finals and also
sponsors are needed for the saddle that will be
given to the winner.
Year-end Awards - Dave Weyer reported on year-end
awards. He stated Roo Hide saddles will be given.
One saddle will be purchased to give at the year-end
show. The other four saddle winners will receive a
certificate valued at $2550 and will order their own
saddles. The idea being the winner can get the size
seat, etc. they want. Some stipulations are MCHA
(and year, etc.) must be stamped on the fenders and
MCHA will not pay more than $2550 toward the
purchase of the saddle and the saddle must be
purchased by Dec. 31.
Ideas for year-end awards were Tres Rios or Gist
buckles, collapsible wheelbarrows, fold-up-feeders,
garment bags and loping halters. It was noted MCHA
does have $200 worth of Gist gift certificates
available.
Year-end show – Theresa Nelson reported she received
two sealed bids for the year-end show. The bids were
opened. One proposal was from Sapphire Event Center
having the show in Corvallis on Sept. 25-26. The bid
included details of the proposal and also included
information on holding the banquet at Victor Steak
House. The other bid was from Todd Banner and was
for holding the show in Great Falls at the
Fairgrounds on October 9-10 with the banquet to be
held at the fairgrounds. Some questions were raised
from the board regarding each proposal. Some
concerns were more information is needed on fresh
cattle, rerun cattle, mechanical-cow use and
sand/arena conditions. Dave Weyer moved to table the
decision on year-end show location until more
information is gathered. Mike Willey seconded the
motion, which passed. Todd Wirthlin will contact
Sapphire for information and Todd Banner will gather
and submit information on his bid.
New Business:
Year-end show committees, auction, banquet, and
general membership meeting – These items were tabled
until the year-end show location is decided. Shirley
stated a chairman for the auction is needed so that
work on it can begin.
Tough Enough to Wear Pink - Shirley presented
information to the board that she was sent from
Tough Enough to Wear Pink. After discussion it was
decided it is a great cause but at this time MCHA
did not wish to participate. The information will be
given to the Big Sky Futurity committee to see if
they want to arrange something for TETYP
particularly during the bridleless class day. Any
other producers wanting to sponsor a TETYP program
are welcome to the information.
Nominations – Donald Weeding and Karla Camp are
seeking nominations from anyone wanting to run for a
MCHA office or director position. They need to have
candidates by the end of July so that the ballot can
be printed.
Date for Next Board Meeting - Discussion was held on
a date for the next board meeting. July 18 at
Corvallis was suggested along with July 11 at Big
Timber. Dave Weyer moved to hold next board meeting
on Saturday, July 11 at 6 p.m. at Big Timber at the
fairgrounds. Don Weeding seconded the motion, which
passed. Todd Wirthlin will be out of town but
hopefully will be in contact via phone.
There being no further business to discuss, Theresa
Nelson moved to adjourn the meeting. Todd Banner
seconded the motion, which passed. Meeting
adjourned.
Respectfully submitted,
Shirley Williams
MCHA Secretary/Treasurer
MINUTES OF MCHA DIRECTORS MEETING
DD CREEK RANCH
APRIL 3, 2009
The Montana CHA Director's meeting was called to
order by President, Todd Wirthlin on Friday,
April 3, 2009. Present were Todd Wirthlin, Theresa
Nelson, Todd Banner, Karla Camp, Donald Weeding,
Dave Weyer and Mike Willey. Absent were Michelle Van
Dyke and Shirley Williams.
The financial statement dated January 1, 2009-March
31, 2009 was reviewed. Upon a motion by Theresa
Nelson, seconded by Dave Weyer, the financial
statement was unanimously approved.
Old Business:
Youth Scholarship Committee. Theresa Nelson made a
motion to table the Youth Scholarship Committee
report until next board meeting. Seconded by Mike
Willey, unanimously approved.
Custom License Plates for MCHA Revenue. Todd
Wirthlin reported that he is working on the design.
Todd presented some potential samples for the plate.
Todd reported that the design had to be into the
state by June 1st, and the plates should be
available by the end of July.
Horse of the year point system. Todd Banner reported
on the point system MCHA will be implementing this
year for the horse of the year. The top five horses
will be put on the ballot for the membership to vote
on. Discussion was held concerning having an open
and non-pro horse of the year. After discussion,
Todd Banner made a motion to use the point system
reviewed earlier and only have one horse of the
year. Dave Weyer seconded the motion and the motion
was unanimously approved.
NWAB class. Mike Willey reported on the setup and
rules of the NWAB class this year. Todd Wirthlin
reported that Michelle Van Dyke and Suzanne Nellen
have each agreed to be NWAB sponsors. Mike Willey
reported on the fee setup for the class, which
enables MCHA to pay for the buckles. Mike will
continue to pursue sponsors and other fund raising
ideas.
Constitutional changes. Theresa Nelson presented the
board with the constitutional changes that the
committee is proposing. After reviewing the proposed
changes discussion was held. Dave Weyer made a
motion to approve and present the proposed changes
to the general membership for vote. Todd Banner
seconded the motion and it was unanimously approved.
Rules and Regulation changes. Reported on by Todd
Wirthlin
There was no other old business:
New business:
Year-end awards. Dave Weyer reported on the year end
awards. Discussion was held regarding how many
saddles should be awarded. Mike Willey made the
motion to award five saddles at the year end, four
for the winners of the classes and one for a drawing
of all the entries in the year-end show. Karla Camp
seconded the motion and it was unanimously approved.
Donald suggested handling the drawing for all the
entries by having them get their ticket when
entering the banquet, therefore giving all
contestants one entry into the drawing.
Donald also made a motion to give award five deep on
the year-end awards. It was seconded by Todd Banner
and was unanimously approved.
Year-end show. Karla Camp made a motion that MCHA
would produce the year end show again this year.
Seconded by Todd Banner and unanimously approved.
Year-end location/date/producer. Dave Weyer made a
motion to have sealed bids mailed to Theresa Nelson
by June 1st for board consideration at the next
meeting. Karla seconded the motion and it was
unanimously approved.
Date for Next Board Meeting. The Board of Director's
will meet at Columbus on Thursday, June 4th.
Date for General Membership meeting was set for
Saturday, June 6th following the youth class during
NCHA days.
Karla made a motion to adjourn and Dave Weyer
seconded, unanimously approved.
Meeting adjourned.
Submitted by,
Theresa Nelson
MCHA Vice-President
MINUTES OF MCHA DIRECTOR'S MEETING
Held at Perkins Restaurant
Butte, Montana
January 17, 2009
The Montana CHA Director's meeting was called to
order by President, Todd Wirthlin on Saturday,
January 17, 2009. Present were Todd Wirthlin,
Theresa Nelson, Shirley Williams, Todd Banner, Karla
Camp, Michelle Van Dyke, Dave Weyer and Mike Willey.
Donald Weeding participated by speakerphone. Macall
Banner, youth director, was absent.
The minutes dated July 26, 2008, July 30, 2008,
September 9, 2008 and November 26, 2008 were read
and reviewed. Upon a motion by Theresa Nelson,
seconded by Karla Camp, the minutes were unanimously
approved. The financial statements dated December
31, 2008 and January 17, 2009 were reviewed. Upon a
motion by Michelle Van Dyke, seconded by Theresa
Nelson, the financial statements were unanimously
approved. The MCHA has a balance of $28,530.63 as of
Jan. 17, 2009. The year-end show report was
presented. The MCHA is awaiting receipt of a
trucking bill. The trucker has been contact and
asked to submit a bill so that it can be paid and
the year-end show report finalized. As of Jan. 17,
2009, a profit of $12,227.20 was made on the
year-end show.
Old Business:
Youth Scholarship Committee. Todd Wirthlin reported
the Angela Bauer Youth Scholarship committee will
meet January 26.
Custom License Plates for MCHA Revenue. Todd
Wirthlin reported his committee has been working
with Tim Cox on drawings for a cow horse license
plate. He presented a mock-up of a license plate. It
depicts a cowboy cutting a cow on the range with
cowboy herd holders in a mountain scene. Other
scenes could be used instead. Tim Cox is not
charging MCHA for the artwork. The only stipulation
is Tim Cox would like to use one of his present art
works and not have to create something. He wants a
sample plate for his promotional purposes and
requests his signature on the plate. Todd has talked
to the Governor and he supports the cow horse plate
and would use it in promotions. Todd has talked to
the license plate department and has gotten the okay
to have a sample plate made for Tim Cox if, indeed,
the MCHA goes ahead with the project. The cost of
initial set-up is $4,000 to produce the plate. MCHA
needs to pay the cost or get people to commit to
buying the plate and have plates pre-sold in the
amount of $4,000. Once the plate is produced the
MCHA will get a percentage of the initial plate cost
and a percentage of annual renewal costs. Discussion
was held on pursuing the project and if MCHA should
pay for the set-up fee or get people to commit to
purchasing the proposed license plate. Dave Weyer
moved to have MCHA pay $4,000 to the state and start
the process to produce the license plate. Karla Camp
seconded the motion, which passed. Todd Wirthlin and
his committee will proceed with the project.
Time Clock. Todd Wirthlin will order a buzzer for
the new time clock.
Constitutional Change. Donald Weeding stated he
would like a committee to initiate changes to the
constitution regarding the MCHA Secretary/Treasurer
voting. Appointed to the committee are Donald
Weeding (chairman) and Theresa Nelson. Others
suggested for the committee are Suzanne Nellen and
David Markette. Donald will contact those suggested.
Todd Wirthlin stated he will work with the
committee.
There was no other old business.
New Business:
Clinic. In the past, Montana trainers have held
clinics for the youth. The trainers will be sent a
letter to see if they would be willing to conduct a
youth clinic this year.
Dave Weyer suggested holding clinics throughout the
state for adults/youth to promote interest in
cutting and gain/retain members. These would be
conducted by trainers in different areas of the
state. Dave Weyer volunteered to head a committee to
promote clinics around the state. Todd Banner and
Karla Camp will work with Dave.
Scholarship Cutting Dates. The Angela Bauer Youth
Scholarship Committee will meet Jan. 26 at which
time dates will be selected from the MCHA schedule
for scholarship cuttings.
Year-end $500 Senior Youth Scholarship. Donald
Weeding moved to award a $500 scholarship to the
2009 winner of the year-end Senior Youth class.
Michelle VanDyke seconded the motion. Motion passed.
State High School Rodeo Cutting Trophies. Dave Weyer
moved to provide two trophies, one to the boy and
one to the girl, to the winners of the State High
School Rodeo cutting contest. Karla Camp seconded
the motion, which passed. Shirley will get the
trophies as has been done in the past.
Level of Sponsorship/Recognition at Ogden.
Discussion was held on level of MCHA sponsorship
(half-day vs. full day) at the Western National
Championships at Ogden, Utah. Discussion was, also,
held on presenting the participants that ride for
Montana a shirt, vest or something to indicate they
are participating for Montana. Karla Camp moved that
MCHA provide one-half day sponsorship at Ogden. Todd
Banner seconded the motion, which passed. It was
decided to not give shirts or vests to the riders
this year. It was suggested this money could be used
to promote clinics around the state. Last year
instead of an ad in the Ogden program MCHA was able
to get a full-page color ad in the NCHA Chatter at
no additional cost. Shirley will talk to NCHA and
see if this can be arranged again.
Corporate Sponsors. Shirley reported she contacted
last year's MCHA Corporate sponsors to ask for their
involvement in this year's program. All but three
agreed to continue sponsorship. Sponsors are needed
for the Non-Pro, $50,000 Amateur and $5,000Novice,
Non-Pro. If the NWAB class is approved for 2009 then
a sponsor or sponsors are needed for that class.
Todd Wirthlin said he is working with two parties
that have shown an interest in becoming corporate
sponsors. Mike Willey, Karla Camp, Michelle Van
Dyke, and Dave Weyer all volunteered to either
sponsor or find sponsors.
Horse of the Year. Todd Banner gave the Horse of the
Year committee report. It is suggested to use a
point system to determine the top five horses. These
horses would be placed on the ballot so that the
MCHA members can vote to determine Horse of the
Year. A point system of the top three horses (using
scores) in each MCHA approved class at MCHA approved
cuttings would receive points. An example is top
horse receive 3 points, next horse 2 points and
third horse 1 point. Discussion was held on giving
Open Horse of the Year and Non Pro Horse of the
Year. The consensus was to give only one Horse of
the Year award.
Approve MCHA Classes for 2009. Dave Weyer moved to
approve the Never Won A Buckle class, $800 Rider
class and $1,000 Novice Horse class as additional
MCHA classes to be offered at MCHA cuttings. The
NWAB class will only be offered at certain shows.
MCHA Year-end awards shall be given in all NCHA
weekend classes and in the $800 rider and $1,000
Novice Horse classes. Theresa Nelson seconded the
motion. Motion passed. The NWAB class will be run on
the same format as last year and a saddle will be
awarded to the winner of the NWAB finals.
Committee Assignments. The following committees were
suggested. Todd Wirthlin will check with the
committee members to verify they are willing to
serve on the committee.
Show Committee: Theresa Nelson (chairman), Dave
Weyer, Todd Banner, Donald Weeding and Karla Camp
Sponsorship Committee: Todd Wirthlin (chairman),
Jann Parker, and Shirley Williams
Election Committee: Betty Lou Weeding (chairman),
Kelly Heiken, Jann Parker, and Audrey O'Keefe
Nominating Committee: Michelle Van Dyke (chairman),
Mike Willey, Karla Campand Donald Weeding
Year-End Awards: Bambi Gress, Audrey O'Keefe, John
Seymour and Dave Weyer.
Never Won A Buckle Class. Shirley and Theresa said
they would not be able to chair the NWAB class this
year due to the extent of their MCHA job duties and
stated someone needs to take over the job. They have
samples of letters, questionnaires, etc. and are
willing to help the new person. Some of the duties
include contacting sponsors, taking photos of the
winners, making poster of winners to be placed at
the cuttings, writing articles, selecting and
presenting dates of NWAB cutting to the MCHA Board
for approval and contacting producers for approval
of NWAB class at their cutting. Connie Basham was
suggested as a person who might be interested in
doing this. Todd Banner will talk to her.
The Board agreed that fresh cattle need to be used
at the NWAB finals. Re-run cattle have been used in
the past and up until last year the cattle have
worked fine. It was suggested either the MCHA pay
for the fresh cattle or a sponsor be found to
provide fresh cattle at the finals.
Rules and Regulations. Discussion was held on Rules
and Regulations. Discussion centered around Rules
and Regulations #4; also - cuttings being reviewed
and approved on an annual basis; shows asking for
approval must or shall be granted approval; MCHA
giving precedence to show locations and dates that
took place in the previous year; more than one
cutting being approved in the state on the same
date; and out of state shows needing unanimous board
approval. Also, discussion was held on which board -
outgoing, incoming or both should approve - "early"
shows (Jan, Feb, March, April shows) and the
deadline for applications being submitted to the
Vice President for placement on the schedule. Also
when the deadlines for submitting dates to the Vice
President for show consideration approval by the
Board was discussed.
Karla Camp moved to modify the Rules and Regulations
- all shows produced in the months of January,
February, March and April shall submit show dates to
the Vice President of MCHA by November 1 of the
prior year for review and consideration for approval
by the existing MCHA Board of Directors. Shows
produced in the remaining months (after April) shall
submit dates to the Vice President of MCHA for
review and consideration for approval by the MCHA
Board of Directors taking office on January 1.
Out-of-state shows must be approved by a unanimous
vote of the Board of Directors. The MCHA Board will
give priority (not guarantee) to show locations and
dates that took place in the previous year when
voting on approval of shows. Priority applies
between requests for the same dates assuming that
both requests are acceptable/desirable shows.
Theresa Nelson seconded the motion. Motion passed.
It was noted that cutting applications received at
least 50 days prior to the cutting will be reviewed
for approval even if submitted after Nov. 1 for the
early shows (Jan, Feb. March, April) and after the
Board has approved the show schedule for the later
shows (shows after April). Producers need to submit
their cutting applications to NCHA and MCHA at least
50 days before their planned cutting.
Show Schedule Approval. Theresa presented the
proposed show schedule to the Board.
Theresa Nelson moved to approve Double D Creek Ranch
cutting April 3-5, Cow Country Cutting April 10-12.
Karla Camp seconded the motion, which passed.
There are two weekends, one in April and one in
June, where two different show producers have asked
for approval of their cuttings. The April shows are
Miles City and Corvallis cuttings. The June cuttings
are Barb Dahl Cutting classic at Jackson, Wyoming
and Sapphire Saddle Series cutting at Corvallis,
Montana. Regarding the April cutting conflict, Caren
Coffee sent Todd Wirthlin, President of MCHA, an
email on behalf of Sage Riders Club stating they
were not holding a cutting and their show dates,
April 18 & 19, would be free. Sapphire inquired as
to whether April 18 & 19 dates were free. Todd was
in possession of the email stating the dates were
free so informed Sapphire the dates were available.
Sapphire submitted a show application to NCHA and to
MCHA for a cutting April 18 & 19. In the mean time,
another individual from Miles City declared their
intent along with another club from Miles City to
Theresa Nelson, MCHA Vice President, to produce the
Miles City cutting on April 18 & 19. Discussion was
held on whether to approve both cuttings on a
one-time basis because of the unintentional mix-up
and also because of the distance, over 500 miles,
between the two cuttings. Theresa stated she had
talked to NCHA and NCHA says the only rule they have
on approving two shows in one state on the same date
is Standing Rule 5 which in part says NCHA will not
approve two shows at the same location on the same
date. Pros and cons were given of approving both
shows.
Dave Weyer moved to approve only one MCHA cutting on
April 18 & 19. Todd Banner seconded the motion.
Discussion was held. The vote passed 7 for (Karla
Camp, Dave Weyer, Mike Willey, Todd Banner, Donald
Weeding, Michelle Van Dyke, Theresa Nelson) and 2
opposed (Shirley Williams, Todd Wirthlin). The Board
approved the Miles City show for April 18 & 19.
Those for approving Miles City were Karla Camp, Dave
Weyer, Donald Weeding, Mike Willey, Michelle Van
Dyke and Todd Banner. Todd Wirthlin and Shirley
Williams voted to approve the Sapphire cutting.
Theresa Nelson abstained because of conflict of
interest. Some directors stated they voted for the
Miles City approval because of their priority date
from last year but would personally like to attend
Sapphire because of the closer proximity.
Dave Weyer moved to add to the Rules and
Regulations, The MCHA Board will only approve one
show per date during the show year. Mike Willey
seconded the motion, which passed.
The June shows date conflicts were discussed. Pros
and cons of approval for the individual cuttings
were discussed. Michelle Van Dyke moved to approve
the Sapphire Event Saddle Series Cutting at
Corvallis, Montana, June 12-14 and not approve the
Barb Dahl Classic Cutting at Jackson, Wyoming.
Theresa Nelson seconded the motion. The vote was
unanimous to approve the Sapphire Event Cutting.
Todd Banner moved to approve the Meadow Vue Ranch
weekend cutting at Henry's Lake, Idaho September
4-6. Karla Camp seconded the motion. The vote was
unanimous to approve the Idaho cutting.
Theresa moved to approve the rest of the cutting
schedule - Corvallis May 16-17, Great Falls May
23-24, Columbus July 3-5, Big Timber July 17-19,
Sapphire July 17-19, Columbus July 24-26, Great
Falls August 8-9 and Corvallis August 22-23. Karla
Camp seconded the motion, which passed.
Representatives for Show Management. After
discussion it was decided that representatives are
not needed to work with the show producers. The show
committee is available, if needed.
Year-end Show. Discussion was held on MCHA producing
a year-end show. Theresa Nelson moved MCHA work with
producers and produce the year-end show. Dave Weyer
seconded the motion, which passed. Dates of aged
events will be reviewed and a year-end show date
will be decided later.
Qualification for AQHA/NCHA Affiliate Challenge at
Ogden. In order for an Affiliate to share in the
benefits of the AQHA/NCHA Affiliate Challenge money
and awards at Ogden the affiliate must conduct at
least three shows. The MCHA fulfills this
requirement by working with producers and producing
the year-end show. The Board recognizes we have
excellent producers that are willing to work with
MCHA. It was decided to again this year work with
producers and to produce the year-end show to
fulfill the three-show requirement.
Year-end Awards. Members asking if MCHA could award
more than two year-end saddles as was done last year
have contacted several Board members. The
feasibility of awarding more year-end saddles will
be determined later.
NWAB – Theresa stated in 2008 the last qualifying
NWAB class was held at an out-of-state cutting. Many
contestants were out-of-state riders who asked if
the Montana membership fee could be adjusted so it
wouldn't cost so much for them to ride in the class.
The Board made no decision and will revisit this
issue later.
Newsletter Publication. Discussion was held on
magazines/newspapers to publish the newsletter. It
was decided to continue using The Wrangler.
MCHA Secretary/Treasurer. Todd Wirthlin proposed
raising the MCHA Secretary/Treasurer wage to $300
per month effective January 1, 2009. The Board voted
to approve the raise.
Announcements. Tim Smith will conduct a clinic on
March 17-18 at Billings. Contact Jann Parker for
more information. Lindy Burch will conduct a clinic
on June 15-16 at Corvallis. Contact John or Cindy
Stefka for more information.
Date for Next Board Meeting. The Board of Director's
will meet at Columbus on April 3. Donald Weeding
stated the Constitutional committee will meet at
that same time.
There being no further business to discuss, Theresa
Nelson moved to adjourn the meeting. Karla Camp
seconded the motion, which passed. Meeting
adjourned.
Respectfully submitted,
Shirley Williams
Montana CHA Secretary/Treasurer
MCHA Minutes
December 4, 2008
On November 26, 2008, the 2008 Montana Cutting Horse
Association Board of Directors was electronically
sent the following cutting show requests to consider
for approval.
Sapphire Event Cutting
February 21-22; Double D Creek Ranch Cutting
March 7-8; Cow Country Cutting, March 14-15
Sapphire Event Cutting, March 21-22
They were instructed to vote yes or no on the shows
and respond to MCHA President, Todd Wirthlin, by
December 1, 2008.
All shows were approved for February and March.
Below is the vote tally.
Feb. Show March Shows
TODD BANNER YES
YES
KARLA CAMP NO
YES
BAMBI GRESS YES
YES
DARRELL LEE YES
YES
LORAINE MC GUANE YES YES
THERESA NELSON NO
YES
DON WEEDING NO
YES
SHIRLEY WILLIAMS NO YES
TODD WIRTHLIN YES
YES
Respectfully submitted,
Shirley Williams
Montana CHA Secretary/Treasurer
MINUTES OF MCHA GENERAL MEMBERSHIP MEETING
Held at Double D Creek Ranch Arena
Columbus, Montana
September 28, 2008
The MCHA General Membership meeting was called to
order by President, Todd Wirthlin at 9:03 a.m. on
September 28, 2008 at the Double D Creek Ranch Arena
at Columbus, Montana. 30 members were present.
Todd Wirthlin thanked Dave & Deb Weyer for the use
of their facilities and thanked all MCHA members for
a very successful year-end show and year.
The minutes from the General Membership Meeting of
September 30, 2007 were distributed and read. The
financial statement dated September 26, 2008, with a
balance of $14,436.39 was distributed and read. Upon
a motion by John Seymour, seconded by Karla Camp,
the minutes and financial statement were unanimously
approved.
Reports:
NCHA Report: The NCHA Convention was held in Fort
Worth, Texas in June. Area Director Buddy Westphal
participated in the meetings and reported on the
convention.
He thanked everyone for returning the survey
regarding the Non-Pro/Amateur issue. The survey was
very helpful. He said the issue is dropped but not
dead.
There will be no change to definition of amateur
competitor for 2009 point year.
2009 Novice Non Pro limits change from $3,000 to
$5,000 and the $10,000 Novice Non Pro was raised to
$15,000 novice, non-pro.
Novice horse eligibility limits didn't change -
still will be $3,000 Novice Horse and $10,000 Novice
horse classes.
World finals format for 2009 will consist of top 15
each in Open and Non Pro classes with four rounds
plus a non-working finals at the Watt arena during
the 2009 NCHA Futurity. No finals for other 10
classes but "recognition" to top 15 that week.
$2 world finals fee collected at weekend shows will
go to the eastern and western national
championships, increasing the added money by 67% at
these two shows.
Tour to the Finals will be held with 8 regional
shows featuring $25,000 added money in Open and
$25,000 added money in Non Pro classes.
Mandatory payout for all shows with $500 and up
added money will be one money paid per four horses.
$499 and less added money will use the old payout
schedule.
Can now buy NCHA joint membership and obtain 2
voting memberships but will only receive one Chatter
magazine.
A cloned horse entering NCHA competition will be
regarded as unregistered and will need a vet
certificate attesting to age required, and DNA
papers submitted if available.
New NCHA rule – no ponying of horses in the loping
pen.
There will be no change to the rules regarding the
position and movement of the rider's hand but judges
are instructed to watch for visible clues when
judging. Must use split reins. Time clock must be
visible to judge and, thus, will also show in the
video.
The 2009 convention will be in Denver.
A summary of convention highlights is on-line at the
NCHA website.
Old Business: There was no old business.
New Business:
MCHA Secretary/Treasurer. Todd Wirthlin
reported some of the board has discussed having an
executive secretary (the position Shirley currently
holds) that would not be elected each year and then
having a secretary that would be elected each year.
The idea being the executive secretary would be
knowledgeable of the aspect of running the business
of the association and have continuity from year to
year. This position would be paid and not have a
vote on the board. A secretary would be appointed or
elected to assist the executive secretary and would
have a vote and serve on the board. Discussion
followed. Donald Weeding moved to have an executive
secretary and another secretary that would be chosen
from within the board. Motion died for lack of a
second. John Seymour moved not to change the present
secretary position because it would be a
constitutional change and needs to be presented to
the membership at a future meeting for a vote
according to the constitution and let the board
investigate alternatives and present to the
membership next year. John Dublin seconded the
motion, which passed.
Custom License Plates for MCHA Revenue. Todd
Wirthlin researched custom license plates that would
feature a horse on the plate. A percentage of
revenue from the special license plates sold would
go to MCHA. Tim Cox and Todd have discussed
designing a plate with a horse on it that would
appeal to all horse people. The state charges $4,000
to issue a special plate. 45% of the initial cost of
the plate goes to the sponsoring association. 25% of
renewal income goes to the group. Darrell Lee moved
for Todd Wirthlin to appoint a committee to see if
MCHA can get 100 people interested in committing to
the $40 license plate and then carry forward with
the idea. The motion passed unanimously after being
seconded by Karla Camp. It was suggested that if the
custom license plate is initiated a percentage of
the percentage of the revenue MCHA gets could go to
the Youth scholarship fund.
Election. President, Todd Wirthlin, thanked
Betty Lou Weeding and her election committee.
Directors elected for two years are Dave Weyer, Mike
Willey, and Michelle Van Dyke. Youth Director is
Macall Banner. MCHA Secretary/Treasurer is Shirley
Williams. These people join Todd Wirthlin,
President, Theresa Nelson, Vice President and
directors Todd Banner, Karla Camp and Donald Weeding
to form the 2009 Board.
Horse of the Year. Todd Wirthlin suggested instead
of having horse of the year voted on by the members
it should be decided by either points or earnings
the horse has won during the year. He suggested
having an open horse of the year and non-pro horse
of the year. Much discussion ensued on the
parameters and method of deciding horse of the year
and, also, discussion focused on determining horse
of the year as it is now decided - by popular vote.
Rex Ternan moved to have a committee look into
determining how to select horse of the year. John
Seymour seconded the motion. Motion passed. The
committee will report to the board and the board
will determine how the horse of the year will be
decided. Todd Wirthlin appointed Robert Borick
(chairman), Cindy Garoutte, Todd Banner and Buddy
Westphal to the committee. It was stated MCHA
members should contact the committee with their
ideas as to how the horse of the year should be
determined.
Show Dates. Producers should give Theresa
Nelson their tentative show dates for 2009 so that
the Board can vote on approval for early shows for
2009 before the end of the year. Todd Wirthlin said
he would contact producers.
Traveling Trophies. Discussion was held on the
traveling trophies especially the trophies that go
to the youth rookies and adult rookies. Sherry Lee
moved to give permanent trophies instead of
traveling trophies in 2009. It was stated the board
did that this year and in the past either a plaque
or breast collar or cantle plate or some type of
award was presented along with the traveling trophy.
Sherry rescinded her motion.
Membership dues. Theresa Nelson said she has been
asked while she has been the secretary at some
cuttings if there is a family membership rate.
Discussion was held on a family rate. It was decided
to leave the dues, as is, $50 for adults and $10 for
youth.
Year-end awards. Dave Weyer asked if a person should
have to show in a certain percentage of cuttings to
qualify for year-end awards. Discussion was held. It
was decided to leave it as it now is – the person
needs to be a MCHA member before showing for
earnings to count to qualify for year-end awards.
Year-end show. John Seymour thanked the board for
hosting the hors d'oeuvres and drinks Friday night
at the year-end cutting. It was a nice gesture and
made a nice evening. Discussion was held on using
fresh cattle for the Never Won A Buckle finals. It
is hoped that in the future this can be
accomplished. Also, discussion was held on using
fresh cattle in the "lower" classes. Producers
present stated they would like to do this but the
issue is complex because of availability of cattle,
cost of cattle and time of year a cutting is held.
Validating ballots. Betty Lou Weeding noted
the MCHA constitution states the voting ballot is to
be validated by a member's National CHA number. This
should be changed to Montana CHA number since a
member doesn't have to be a NCHA member in order to
be a MCHA member. This will require a constitutional
change.
Being there was no further business to discuss, John
Seymour moved to adjourn the meeting. The motion was
seconded by Duane Nollmeyer and unanimously passed.
The meeting was adjourned at 10:35 a.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Shirley Williams
Montana CHA Secretary/Treasurer
MCHA Minutes
July 30, 2008
On July 30, 2008, the Montana Cutting Horse
Association Board of Directors were electronically
sent, by Todd Wirthlin, the two submitted Year-End
Show location/proposals and instructed to vote for
one proposal.
The Proposals are listed below.
Double D Creek Ranch: If MCHA produces show – Double
D Creek Ranch will provide: (1) 50% revenue on
stalls, (2) no arena charge (3) cattle handlers,
video, announcer and show secretary will all be at
discounted rates (4) all cattle including trucking
will not exceed $35.00 per head (5) all classes will
have all fresh or partial fresh cattle (6) Double D
Creek Ranch will not re-run cattle 2-3 times for any
show (7) will help with member participation to put
year-end banquet on night of September 27th.
If MCHA chooses not to produce year-end show: (1)
Double D Creek Ranch will co-op with MCHA 50/50 –
win or loose in revenue (2) Double D Creek Ranch
cannot guarantee discounted rates on show secretary,
announcer, video, or cattle handlers due to Double D
Creek Ranch receiving revenue on show.
Submitted by Dave Weyer
Sapphire Event Center: If we put the show on we
would run it the same as always. $500 added in open
& non-pro, $300 added in 50 Am, 1,000 novice, 10,000
novice NP, 3,000 novice and 3,000 novice NP. We
would have used cattle to about the 20,000 NP. If
MCHA does the show, we would let you use the arena
for free and we would only get the stall money. You
could run show as you like and practice. Cattle cost
about $30 per head, I have paid more this year.
Submitted by John Stefka
All nine members did vote on the Proposals presented
by both the Double D and the Sapphire Event Center.
Darrel Lee, Shirley Williams, and Todd Wirthlin
voted for the Sapphire Center Proposal which was the
Sapphire Center would produce the show and take full
responsibility if the show made money or not. Board
Members Bambi Gress, Theresa Nelson, Todd Banner,
Carla Camp, Don Weeding, and Laurie McGuane voted
for the Double D as the site for the Year-End Show.
Bambi Gress, Theresa Nelson, Todd Banner, Carla
Camp, and Don Weeding voted to have the MCHA produce
the show at the Double D under the proposal given by
the Double D Creek Ranch. Laurie McGuane voted for
the 50/50 Proposal given by the Double D Creek
Ranch.
Respectfully submitted,
Shirley Williams
MCHA Secretary/Treasurer
MINUTES OF MCHA DIRECTOR'S MEETING
Held at Super 8 Motel
Columbus, Montana
July 26, 2008
The Montana CHA Director's meeting was called to
order by President, Todd Wirthlin on Saturday, July
26, 2008, at 7:45 p.m. Present were Todd Wirthlin,
Theresa Nelson, Shirley Williams, Darrell Lee, Todd
Banner, Donald Weeding, Laurie McGuane, Karla Camp
and Bambi Gress. Youth director, Lane Ternan, was
absent.
Opening Remarks: President, Todd Wirthlin thanked
all for attending the meeting. He informed the board
that Susan Sohr was unable to attend Western
National Championships at Ogden, Utah because of her
daughter's unexpected death. He notified NCHA and
talked to the NCHA President and others at NCHA and
NCHA generously refunded Susan's entry fees. NCHA is
to be commended on this gesture.
Todd stated he is working on securing more corporate
sponsors for MCHA for next year. He has been in
contact with some prospective corporate sponsors.
Perhaps various levels of sponsorship should be
offered.
Minutes & Financial Statement: The minutes from
January 19, 2008 and February 22, 2008 were
reviewed. Upon a motion by Laurie McGuane, seconded
by Karla Camp, the minutes dated January 19, 2008
were unanimously approved. Upon a motion by Darrell
Lee, seconded by Laurie McGuane, the minutes dated
February 22, 2008 were unanimously approved. The
2007 financial statement and the financial statement
dated July 26, 2008 were reviewed. The MCHA has a
balance of $32,190.94 as of July 26, 2008. Upon a
motion by Bambi Gress and seconded by Karla Camp,
the financial statement dated July 26, 2008 was
unanimously approved. A spreadsheet comparing
previous years cutting entries and total members was
reviewed. It was noted we have more members (219) so
far this year than we did total members (214) last
year. Total income from cuttings is comparable to
date this year as to last year. Some cuttings have
fewer entries while other cuttings have more
entries. More cuttings have been held this year than
last year at this same time of year.
Reports: Regional Scholarship Cutting: It was stated
it is thought that the Regional Scholarship Cutting
will not be held this year due to inadequate
funding. Hopefully it will be held next year.
Never Won A Buckle Class: There are 20 certificates
for SciencePure Nutraceuticals products courtesy of
corporate sponsor, SciencePure Nutraceuticals. It
was suggested that all riders participating in the
NWAB classes receive a certificate. Another NWAB
class has been added to the Montana NWAB series. It
will be held at Meadow Vue Ranch cutting at Henry's
Lake, Idaho on August 30. It was noted there has
been large participation in all of the NWAB classes.
Correspondence: Shirley Williams read correspondence
from Scott McWatters thanking the board for offering
the $800 rider class this year and hopes the class
will continued to be offered in the future.
Old Business: There was no old business.
New Business: Year-end Show: Discussion was held on
having a year-end show and when would be the best
weekend, if we were to have a show. After discussion
on the pros and cons of a MCHA produced year-end
show, year-end show produced by someone other than
MCHA and only holding an awards banquet, the
directors stated their opinion as to whether to hold
a year end show or just a banquet. Two directors
were for only having a banquet, others were for
having year-end show and banquet but were divided as
to whether MCHA should produce the show or have an
outside producer. It was stated that Double D Creek
Ranch at Columbus and Sapphire Event Center at
Corvallis are interested in producing or
co-producing the year-end show with MCHA. Todd
Banner said he might be able to get a year-end show
proposal together for Great Falls/Vaughn area.
Darrell Lee moved to get written proposals for the
year-end show by Wednesday, July 30. The proposals
are to be to faxed or emailed to Todd Wirthlin. Todd
will notify the board and the board will vote on a
location and whether or not MCHA should produce the
show. Karla Camp seconded the motion, which passed.
The proposed date for the year-end show is September
26 & 27. This seems to work best because it is not
in conflict with any aged event cuttings.
Year-end Awards: Awards Chairman, Bambi Gress,
presented ideas for year-end awards. Suggestions are
Hy O Silver buckles, Yucca Flats saddle blankets
with buckle conchos, hair on hide duffel bags,
Nettle stirrups, day planners, Kelly Graham Bronzes,
and breast collars. Bambi will check with NCHA to
determine if they award each affiliate a trophy to
present to horse of the year. Bambi Gress moved to
dissolve the traveling trophies and give permanent
trophies. Darrell Lee seconded the motion. Motion
passed.
The Don Girard award was discussed. Theresa Nelson
moved to retire the Don Girard award and give the
traveling trophy to Jan Girard in Don's memory.
Karla seconded the motion, which passed.
Don Weeding moved to retire the turnback horse of
the year award and no longer present an award for
the turnback horse of the year. Bambi Gress seconded
the motion, which passed.
Discussion was held on giving a plaque to an
individual that exemplifies good sportsmanship and
is an inspiration to other cutters. People were
suggested for this award. The board made a unanimous
selection for the inspirational award. Don Weeding
volunteered to present the award to the winner at
the banquet.
Discussion was held on how many saddles to present
this year. Bambi Gress moved to give two saddles.
All the year-end class winners will have a chance
for one saddle in a drawing as has been done in the
past. The other saddle will be awarded in a drawing
to people entering and showing at the year-end show
and must be present at the banquet. The owner and
rider names will be entered in the drawing upon
entering the year-end show. If they enter multiple
classes they will only receive one entry in the
drawing. Theresa Nelson seconded the motion. Motion
passed with 7 directors for and 1 against. . Shirley
Williams voted against stating she felt more saddles
should be awarded. Two Roohide saddles will be
ordered and awarded.
Karla Camp moved that Bambi Gress proceed with
ordering awards through fifth place for each class
and that previous traveling trophy awards now be
given permanent awards. The NWAB shootout winner
will be awarded a bronze. Don Weeding seconded the
motion. Motion carried.
MCHA Election Status: The nominating committee met
Friday night, July 25 and recommends the following.
Nominees for Horse of the Year: Headacres Fancy,
Shortys Royal Blue, HR Cat O Lena, Docs Stylish
Acre, Duallys On Safari, Barbs King Colonel,
Remanitas Alegria and Badgers Danny Dry. Directors:
Robert Pilster, John Dublin, Dave Weyer, John
Stefka, Michelle Van Dyke, Mike Willey and Kelly
McDonald. Secretary/Treasurer: Jann Parker and
Shirley Williams. National Youth Director: Macall
Banner, Eric White, and Lane Ternan. The ballot will
also have a space for "write-ins" for Horse of the
Year, Secretary/Treasurer, Directors and Youth
Director. The board approved the slate of nominees.
Ballots will be mailed to all members.
Adult Rookie of the Year, Senior Youth Rookie, and
Junior Youth Rookie selection was discussed. Shirley
stated last year Adult rookie was given to the
rookie who won the most money in MCHA approved
classes during the year. It was decided the board
would vote and select the Adult Rookie, Senior Youth
Rookie and Junior Youth Rookie. Unanimous selections
were made for adult, senior and junior rookies and
will be announced at the awards banquet.
Auction/Silent Auction: Suggestions were made for
people to chair the auction committee. Those
suggested were Audrey O'Keefe, Lee Wirthlin, Kate
Banner, Sherry Lee and John Seymour. They will be
contacted to see if they are interested in serving.
Awards Banquet: The banquet location is dependent
upon the year-end show location.
General Membership Meeting: The general membership
meeting will be Sunday, September 28. Location and
time to be determined.
By Law Changes: No constitution or by law changes
need to be presented at the General Membership
Meeting.
2009 MCHA Shows: It was suggested to meet with
producers and get their input on shows for 2009.
2 ½ Minutes Publication: The editors of the new 2 ½
Minutes publication have contacted MCHA. They would
like MCHA to use their "magazine" to publish MCHA
news. Copies of the magazine were reviewed. MCHA
would be limited to two pages with the option of
purchasing more pages each month. No results or show
information will be published and there is limited
space for standings. It is a monthly publication. No
action was taken.
How to Increase MCHA Membership and entries at MCHA
Shows: It was noted MCHA membership remains steady
and growing. Possible suggestions on increasing
entries at shows were to hold three-day cuttings and
fewer cuttings per month. More discussion on this
will follow at future meetings.
The next board meeting will be at the Great Falls
cutting. Todd Wirthlin will select date, time and
location and notify the board.
President, Todd Wirthlin, adjourned the meeting at
approximately 10:30 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Shirley Williams
Montana CHA Secretary/Treasurer
MCHA Minutes
February 22, 2008
On February 14, 2008 the MCHA Board of Directors
were electronically and/or telephonically contacted
regarding the $800 rider class. After checking with
NCHA it was determined that the $800 rider class
(not a NCHA approved class) could not be run as a
class within a class in the $2,000 limited rider
class (a NCHA approved class). The NCHA indicated it
could only be a class in the $2000 rider as a point
class and no entry fees could be collected. The
directors were reminded the MCHA/NCHA approved shows
for March and April to have the 800 rider as a
stand-alone class in the class schedule. The
directors were given the following options.
1. Reinstate the 800 rider class as a stand-alone
MCHA class for the 2008 show year.
2. Keep the format of the 800 rider class as a class
within a class for the 2008 show year.
The directors were instructed to vote for one of the
options. The vote was unanimous for the $800 rider
class to be a stand-alone class for 2008.
On February 14, 2008 the MCHA Board of Directors
were electronically and/or telephonically contacted
regarding the Never Won A Buckle class schedule.
President, Todd Wirthlin, set the dates for the
Never Won A Buckle class (pending the approval by
the Board of Directors and the Show Producer for the
following dates).
May 24 - Sun River Cattle Company cutting
June 28 - Never Sweat Ranch cutting
July 26 - Double D Creek Ranch cutting
August 23 - Sapphire Event Center weekend cutting
The Board was instructed to vote yes, agreeing for
the proposed dates as indicated for the NWAB class
or no, not approving the proposed dates as indicated
for the NWAB class. The vote was unanimous to
approve the Never Won A Buckle Class proposed dates.
On February 18, 2008 the MCHA Board of Directors
were electronically and/or telephonically contacted
regarding the Cascade Horseman. The MCHA will be the
only cutting association to publish their news in
the Cascade Horseman. The Cascade Horseman dropped
all other cutting associations. The new Northwest
Cutter publication that was proposed by the Cascade
Horseman did not get enough interest from other
cutting associations, so they will not be starting
that publication at this time. The Wrangler magazine
has contact MCHA wanting to publish the MCHA
association's news, show info, etc. The Wrangler at
this time publishes news from these cutting groups:
Wyoming Cutting Horse Association, Western States
Cutting Horse Association, Western Nebraska Cutting
Horse Association, High Plains Cutting Horse Club,
Minnesota Cutting Horse Association, Iowa Cutting
Horse Association, Cutting Horse Association of
Nebraska, and Kansas Cutting Horse Association. The
cost of the Cascade Horseman is $14.00 per
household. The Wrangler is $7.00 per household. The
Board was instructed to vote for one of the
following.
1. Have the Cascade Horseman as the official MCHA
publication for the 2008 year.
2. Have the Wrangler as the official MCHA
publication for the 2008 year.
3. Go with another publication other than above.
The vote for the official MCHA publication for 2008
was majority (8 to 1) to use the Wrangler to publish
MCHA news.
On February 18, 2008 the MCHA Board of Directors
were electronically and/or telephonically contacted
regarding the time clock issue. At the MCHA Board of
Directors meeting on January 19, 2008 Todd Wirthlin
was authorized to research time clocks and
authorized to spend up to $1,300.00 for a new time
clock, accessories, and case. Todd contacted several
manufactures of time clocks. The only company that
has a true portable system that is wireless is
FarmTek. The FarmTek system is set up without any
wires from the timing console to the scoreboard
making it completely wireless. A wire connection is
required to connect to the existing PA system for a
horn to go off at the end of time. The Scoreboard
has 7 inch LED Digits. A Carrying Case for the
system is included in the price. The bid Todd got
back from FarmTek including shipping is $1,639.00,
$339.00 over what was budgeted by the Board. FarmTek
does have this system in stock at this time. The
Board was instructed to vote for one of the
following.
1. Purchase the Time Clock from FarmTek as per
invoice for the amount of $1,639.00
2. Do not purchase the Time Clock and keep looking
for a system at or under $1,300.00
The vote was unanimous to purchase the time clock
from FarmTek as per invoice for the amount of
$1,639.00.
Respectfully submitted,
Shirley Williams
MCHA Secretary/Treasurer
MINUTES OF MCHA DIRECTOR'S MEETING
Held at War Bonnet Inn
Butte, Montana
January 19, 2008
The MCHA Director's meeting was called to order by
President, Todd Wirthlin at 2:05 p.m. on Saturday,
January 19, 2008. Present were Todd Wirthlin,
Theresa Nelson, Shirley Williams, Darrell Lee, and
Todd Banner. Guests attending were Cody Lee and
Sherry Lee. Donald Weeding and Laurie McGuane
participated by conference call for part of the
meeting. Karla Camp, Bambi Gress and youth director,
Lane Ternan, were absent.
The minutes dated July 20, 2007 and October 24, 2007
were read. Upon a motion by Darrell Lee, seconded by
Theresa Nelson, the minutes were unanimously
approved. The financial statements dated December
31, 2007 and January 19, 2008 were reviewed. The
MCHA has a balance of $15,473.50 as of Jan. 19,
2008. Upon a motion by Todd Banner and seconded by
Darrell Lee, the financial statements were
unanimously approved.
Reports:
Youth Scholarship Committee. Todd Wirthlin
participated in the MCHA Youth Scholarship annual
meeting on January 10, 2008. Committee members are
Kathy Foote, John L Dublin, Will Nuttall, Todd
Wirthlin, Chad Bauer, and Rex Ternan. The MCHA Youth
Scholarship has a net fund balance of $19,981.04.
They have future scholarship obligations of
$6,975.00. The Internal Revenue Service approved the
501(c) (3) application. They are planning a RooHide
saddle raffle. Once the MCHA Board of Directors
approves the cutting schedule they will select the
dates for the Angela Bauer Youth Scholarship
Cuttings. Carrie Bruch is interested in chairing a
committee to put together a NYCHA regional youth
scholarship cutting. Gina Ternan and Krista Nuttall
will work with Carrie on this project. Will Nuttall
will plan a youth cutting camp for June or July.
Old Business:
Time Clock. Discussion was held on the condition of
the time clock. It was agreed a new time clock is
needed. Theresa Nelson reported Wyoming purchased a
new time clock but is keeping their old one for a
back up. A farm-tech time clock was suggested. Todd
Banner moved to authorize Todd Wirthlin to research
time clocks and authorize spending up to $1,300.00
for a new time clock, accessories, and case. Theresa
Nelson seconded the motion, which passed
unanimously. Darrell Lee offered to buy the old time
clock for a price yet to be determined if MCHA wants
to sell it.
New Business:
Regional Scholarship. Carrie Bruch is organizing a
regional youth scholarship cutting competition to be
held in Montana in August. Each of the eight regions
of NCHA may apply to NCHA for a minimum of $2000 to
use toward hosting a scholarship cutting. The
cutting must guarantee a minimum of $10,000 in total
scholarship money. $8,000 needs to be raised.
Montana is in Region 1, which consists of the states
of Washington, Alaska, Utah, Oregon, Wyoming,
Western & Central Canada. Carrie will contact other
affiliates in the Region to ask for their support.
Anyone wanting to donate can contact Carrie Bruch at
406-222-0330,
crb@rockinb.com. Discussion was held.
MCHA Year-End $500 Senior Youth Scholarship.
Discussion was held on continuing the senior
year-end scholarship now that there are scholarship
cuttings and an active scholarship fund-raising
group. Presently the money for the MCHA Year-End
$500 Senior Youth Scholarship is paid to the
scholarship fund and they administer awarding the
scholarship. Darrell Lee moved to give $300 toward
the $8,000 that needs to be raised for the Regional
Scholarship cutting, contingent upon the other
$8,000 being raised and the cutting is held, and to
give a $300 MCHA senior year-end scholarship instead
of a $500 scholarship. Todd Banner seconded the
motion, which passed.
State High School Cutting Trophies. Todd Banner
moved to provide two trophies, one to the boy and
one to the girl, to the winners of the State High
School Rodeo cutting contest. Darrell Lee seconded
the motion, which passed. John Seymour will be
contacted to get the trophies.
AQHA/NCHA Affiliate Challenge/Western National
Championships, Ogden. A member sent an email to Todd
Wirthlin and all the directors regarding the
AQHA/NCHA Affiliate Challenge at Western National
Championships at Ogden. They wanted to know what
three shows MCHA produced last year in order to
qualify for the AQHA/NCHA Affiliate Challenge. The
member is concerned MCHA does not fulfill the
requirements set forth by NCHA and should not accept
the money won at Ogden. In response to the inquiry,
Shirley stated last year MCHA produced NCHA Days,
June 1, 2, and 3. Each day is a separate show; thus
MCHA fulfilled the three-show requirement. MCHA
worked with Double D Creek Ranch in producing this
show. NCHA was called to verify that Montana is in
compliance with the Affiliate Challenge guidelines
and following the proper procedure. Carol Cox at
NCHA was told how MCHA handles show production. She
was asked if NCHA was concerned or cared that MCHA
took no financial risk on the shows. Carol indicated
that this was an issue that NCHA did not care about.
MCHA is in compliance with requirements for the
AQHA/NCHA Affiliate Challenge at Ogden. Discussion
was held on the possibility of MCHA taking
more accountability with producing shows and
rewarding producers. Further discussion by the
directors will be held later this spring.
Level of Sponsorship at Ogden. In the past MCHA has
sponsored one-half day at Ogden at a cost of $550.
MCHA receives recognition at Ogden and also receives
a one-quarter page ad in The Chatter. It was decided
to stay at the same level of sponsorship.
Recognition at Ogden. Shirts have been given in the
past to those riders competing at Western Nationals
and riding for the Montana affiliate. Discussion was
held on continuing this. It was decided to continue
recognizing the members. Todd Banner moved to give
vests to those MCHA members competing at Ogden and
riding for the Montana affiliate. Todd Wirthlin is
to get price quotes on vests and contact the
directors for approval before purchasing. Theresa
Nelson seconded the motion. Motion passed. Todd
Wirthlin will be at Ogden for the duration of the
competition so will be able to distribute the vests
to those riding for Montana. Those competing at
Ogden and riding for Montana need to contact Todd or
Lee Wirthlin with their vest size. A notice will be
put on the website.
Cascade Horseman. The Cascade Horseman is making
significant style and design changes to their
magazine. They are reducing the page count and are
cutting back on the number of pages dedicated to
association news. They will only carry the news of
five associations and each association will only
have two pages. MCHA is one of the associations that
have been selected to have their news printed in the
Cascade Horseman. The Cascade Horseman has dropped
Utah and Idaho. Utah and Idaho are working on
alternate publications to carry their news and have
asked Montana to join them. The Wrangler has
submitted a proposal to Montana to carry Montana's
news. Discussion was held. Darrell moved to stay
with the Cascade Horseman, pending the other four
associations remaining with Cascade Horseman are
cutting associations. Donald Weeding seconded the
motion, which passed. Shirley will check with
Cascade Horseman to verify that the five
associations are all cutting associations.
Corporate Sponsors. The directors reviewed the MCHA
Corporate Sponsor list. It was noted three corporate
sponsors from last year did not renew due to their
business being sold, sponsoring NYCHA, sponsoring
the youth scholarship fund or other reasons. The
MCHA has gained two new sponsors, Joe Liss Water
Wells, Inc. and Red Lodge Country Real Estate, Inc.
One more sponsor is needed in order for each class
to have a corporate sponsor. It was suggested a
class could be co-sponsored. Todd Wirthlin and
Darrell and Sherry Lee will work on securing more
sponsors. It was suggested to give corporate sponsor
vests instead of plaques.
Custom License Plates for MCHA Revenue. Todd
Wirthlin has checked with the state of Montana on
the possibility of MCHA offering cowhorse license
plates through the state for sale. The percentage of
the revenue from the sale of the plates would go to
MCHA. He has talked to Tim Cox and other artists on
designing the license plates. MCHA would need to
have100 people committed to buying the plates or pay
$4,000 to have the plates produced. Todd will
research this project more and present it at the
General Membership meeting.
Committee Assignments.
The following committees were suggested. Todd
Wirthlin will check with the committee members to
verify they are willing to serve on the committee.
Sponsorship Committee: Todd Wirthlin (chairman),
Chad Bauer, Tom Bruch.
Election Committee: Betty Lou Weeding (chairman),
Kelly Heiken, Jann Parker, Audrey O'Keefe, Bert
Moran.
Show Committee: Theresa Nelson (chairman), Todd
Banner, John L. Dublin, Will Nuttall, Dave Weyer,
John Seymour, Darrell Lee, Wylie Fraser, Donald
Weeding.
Nominating Committee: Donald Weeding (chairman),
Kathy Foote, Laurie McGuane, Karla Camp.
Year-End Awards: Bambi Gress (chairman), Michelle
Van Dyke, Vickie Stewart, Ellie Rome, Audrey
O'Keefe, John Seymour.
Discussion was held on evaluating cuttings. It was
suggested to have an evaluation form to offer
constructive comments to show producers. The form
needs to be quick and easy to complete. The form
would be given to contestants while they are
checking out at the show. They would complete it
anonymously and place it in a box. It was suggested
to list practice pen, stalls, concessions, loping
area, ground, cattle, etc. on the evaluation form.
The show committee (those present at the cutting)
would evaluate the cutting also. It was suggested to
give an award at the end of the year to the best
show. Theresa Nelson and Donald Weeding will draft
an evaluation form.
Discussion was held on how nominations for officers,
directors and horse of the year have been done in
the past. It was suggested anyone wanting to run for
an office or director should contact the nominating
committee by July 1. People should notify the board
or nominating committee with suggestions for horse
of the year.
Discussion was held on year-end awards. It was
suggested to give two saddles as they are presently
awarded - the year-end winners all have a chance at
the saddles. Discussion on once someone wins a
saddle they should remove themselves from the
drawing for the rest of the saddles. Discussion was
held on giving a saddle via a drawing to those
competing at the year-end show. The names of all
contestants competing at the year-end show would be
put in a hat and a name drawn out. That person would
win a saddle.
2008 MCHA Classes.
Discussion was held on how to shorten the show day.
$800 Rider. Laurie McGuane suggested either
eliminating the $800 rider class or incorporating it
within another class. Discussion was held. Laurie
McGuane moved the $800 rider class be a MCHA class
within the $2,000 rider class with the structure and
year-end awards to be determined at a later date.
Darrell Lee seconded the motion. Motion passed.
Theresa will check with NCHA on structuring the
class and that MCHA is in compliance with NCHA
rules. (Note: Theresa did contact NCHA and NCHA
indicated the $800 Rider Class could not be run as a
class within the $2,000 rider class. What is
permitted and will be used this year is when $800
riders enter the $2,000 Rider Class they will
indicate to the show secretary they want to
participate in the $800 Rider Class also. There will
be no additional cost to participate in the $800
Rider Class. Year-end awards will be given to the
high point $800 Riders.)
Never Won A Buckle Class. Discussion was held on
reinstating the Never Won A Buckle class. Laurie
McGuane moved to reinstate the NWAB class with four
classes being held throughout the show year. Two
classes will be held west of the divide and two
classes east of the divide with a committee
appointed to recommend year-end award(s). Donald
Weeding seconded the motion. Motion carried.
Senior Class (age 50 or older). Discussion was held
on holding a senior class as a class within a class
in the non pro class. No action was taken.
$1,000 Novice Horse. Todd Banner moved to keep the
$1,000 Novice Horse class as a MCHA class for 2008.
Darrell Lee seconded the motion. Motion carried.
Foundation Class. Discussion was held on the
foundation class last year. Theresa Nelson moved to
not have the Foundation class as a MCHA class for
2008. Todd Banner seconded the motion, which
carried.
4 Year-Old Class. Discussion was held on a 4
year-old class. It was decided the producer will
determine if they want to offer this class. There
will be no MCHA year-end awards given in the 4
year-old class.
Todd Banner moved that 2008 year-end awards be given
to the same MCHA classes as was given in 2007 with
the exception of the $800 rider and NWAB classes.
Theresa Nelson seconded the motion. Motion carried.
2008 Show Schedule.
The tentative 2008 show schedule was reviewed. It
was noted that the Sapphire Event Cutting Scheduled
March 22 & 23 has been cancelled.
Laurie McGuane moved to approve the in-state weekend
cuttings as listed on the proposed show schedule.
Darrell Lee seconded the motion, which passed.
The Barb Dahl Cutting Classic at Jackson, Wyoming
was discussed. Theresa Nelson moved to approve the
Barb Dahl Cutting Classic at Jackson, Wyoming.
Shirley Williams seconded the motion. Darrell Lee
abstained from voting. The remaining directors
participating in the meeting unanimously approved
the cutting.
Discussion was held on the Meadow Vue Ranch cutting
at Henry's Lake, Idaho. Darrell Lee moved to approve
the Meadow Vue Ranch cutting at Henry's Lake, Idaho.
Todd Banner seconded the motion. The motion was
unanimously approved.
Representatives for Show Management. After
discussion it was decided that representatives are
not needed to work with the show producers. The show
committee is available, if needed.
Scholarship Cutting Dates. The Youth Scholarship
committee will be given the show schedule so they
can select dates for the Angela Bauer Scholarship
cuttings.
Todd Wirthlin stated he will be meeting with other
affiliate presidents at Western National
Championships, at Ogden. He will get information on
various subjects such as evaluations of shows,
year-end awards, producing shows and other topics.
There being no further business to discuss, Todd
Banner moved to adjourn the meeting. Darrell Lee
seconded the motion, which passed unanimously.
The meeting was adjourned at 5:35 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Shirley Williams
MCHA Secretary/Treasurer
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