About MAHA

And in the beginning there was...
On June 5, 1948 in the Hunter's Room of the Billings Commercial club (which most recently has been The Cellar Resturant), the Montana Arabian Horse Association for Owners and Breeders was organized. The first President was Dr. J. R. Thompson of Miles City. Ralph H. Smith of Billings was the first Secretary-Treasurer. 14 members were present. Special guests were Dr. and Mrs. Joder of Cheyenne, who told of an Interstate Organization being organized. (This was eventually to become The International Arabian Horse Association.) Mrs. Joder, affectionately known as Anna Best, was the founder and editor of the Arabian Horse News, which was for many years the official publication of IAHA. The second meeting of this organization was on October 9, 1948, and Bill Hagen became not only a member but was designated the Official Tail Twister. Bill's "first love" was the Lions Club, and he was also their tail twister. The Lion's club was a sponsor of many horse shows here in those years, and from that was created the Midland Empire Horse Show Association, which survives to this day. Bill would fine anyone present for whatever reason he felt sufficient--and the fines were a very nice gratuity to the catering staff of the Commercial Club. Bill also announced all our shows for many years and was one of our greatest treasures. He was always accompanied by his darling wife Edie and their record collection.

January 22, 1949 saw the third meeting of the club, at the Grand Hotel Coffee Shop in Billings (now known as Jake's.) The weather was real January--only 8 attended. By now the Interstate Organization was referred to as the West Central Association, and a membership fee was being considered. The Arabian Horse News was the "official" publication the Arabian Associations, one being Montana AHA. The 4th meeting was held on April 2nd of 1949 at Lewistown with 20 present. A membership drive was implimented and everyone was urged to support the shows at Miles City and Cheyenne. A truck would be hired to haul the horses. Arabian show rules were sent to all members.

August 6, 1949. The meeting this time was in Helena, with 11 present. Possibility of a show in 1950 was discussed. A committee was appointed to study and report at the next meeting. An election of officers was held. Mrs. Faye Saylor of Great Falls was elected President, H. 0. Bell of Missoula became Vice President. Ralph Smith was re-elected Secretary-Treasurer--all by unanimous ballot. Outgoing President Dr. James Thompson of Miles City became a 3-year director, also unanimously.

October 5, 1949. The Gerald Cafe of Great Falls, with 10 members present, and Mrs. Saylor presided. The main order of business was to organize an All Arabian Horse Show. Dr. Thompson, chairman, informed the members a sponsor and a location must be found. Among planned classes were calf roping and racing. Following adjournment of the meeting, an educational program followed. Each member present had - as a place card - a picture of a horse, and each was asked to give a brief pedigree and blood lines or ancestrage of the horse.

On January 11, 1950 16 members met at the Rainbow Hotel in Great Falls, out of a total of 26 members. Show Committee chairman, Dr. Thompson, gave a report on the prospect of a 1950 All Arabian Show. For many reasons (not noted in the minutes) the "time was not right." The Cheyenne people objected to a show conflicting with theirs. A letter from a Mr. E. E. Hurlburt of California was read, regarding a national show horse association for dates and places, and approval of judges. (Apparently the American Horse Shows Association had not come west of the Mississippi, or maybe even of the Adirondacks!) The letter was referred to Mrs. Saylor for action. The entertainment that evening was a movie, Kings of the Rockies. May 6, 1950 at the Crossroads in Miles City, with 10 members present, Dr. Thompson reported on a meeting held in Salt Lake City, on March 31st, at the Hotel Utah, for the purpose of organizing the INTERNATIONAL ARABIAN HORSE ASSOCIATION, to be incorporated in California!!!!!!! See, folks, we are older than International!!!!! Mr. E. E. Hurlbutt, later the owner of the legendary WITEZ II, became the first president of IAHA, and our delegate, Dr. James Thompson of Miles City, became the first ever Vice President. Nineteen people, representing seven clubs, were the the foundation of what is now IAHA, but was then named the Arabian Horse Association, (International). Also, at this meeting, Dr. Thompson reported that a survey of the membership had been made by his committee regarding interest in an All Arabian Horse Show. 30% of the membership replied, all but two favored a show, but only 12 horses were ready for showing. The concensus--no show THIS year.

Commentary on Part I

Deja vu--the more things change the more they stay the same. The only thing that stands out is that such a high percentage of members attended the meetings. Considering the '.'club" covered the whole state, and the meeting times were often held in mid-winter, with no interstate highways or the highway maintenance we have today, that is admirable. Then, as now, the primary concern was HORSE SHOW, and it was a great struggle. The first classes for Arabians were considered a giant step, and "approved" shows were more than twenty years away. If any of you know of there whereabouts of the families of thise founders of MAHA, I would appreciate hearing from you---especially Dr. James Thompson of Miles City.

Meanwhile, back at the ranch... Club history continues.

In the last issue, our history started with the first "official" meeting of what is now the Montana Arabian Horse Association on June 5, 1948, and went through May 6, 1950 and the founding of IAHA in March 1950 in Salt Lake City. Our representative, not yet called delegate, was Dr. James Thompson of Miles City, who became the first Vice President of International. We now resume

August 6, 1950, Gibson Park in Great Falls. President Mrs. Clarence Saylor presided with 14 present. Four others were in town but could not find Gibson Park!!! The main order of business was the election of officers. Elected by unanimous ballot were President H. O. Bell, Missoula; Vice President Mrs. L. W. Crouch, Great Falls; Secretary Treasurer Esther Smith, Billings. The outgoing president was appointed to the board of directors to fill a vacancy. (This established the precedent, apparently, and now, by by-law, it is automatic.) A sad sidelight, president elect H. O. Bell was unable to attend due to Mrs. Bell's illness, and she died that same weekend. (From the Arabian Horse News: the West Central States Assn, consisting of 14 states, met July 14th in Cheyenne and our Dr. James Thompson was elected president for a two year term. This organization voted to join IAHA.

April 14, 1951. Palace Hotel, Missoula, with 11 members and several family members present. H.0. Bell presided. Dr. Thompson reported on meetings of the West Central organization, and of an IAHA meeting. No details of business discussed in either of these meetings or in the Arabian News report of the meetings. (but they DID meet!) From the Arabian Horse News. On January 20, 1951, at the Brown Palace Hotel in Denver, MAHA's Dr. Thompson was reelected Vice President. Other items of interest: 1. No 1951 national show because of (a) war, and (b) IAHA not "mechanically" developed enough to stage a championship show. 2. Hire a field Secretary. At this stage there were 12 member associations, and 8 were represented at this meeting. There is a tap of 2 1/2 years before another meeting of MAHA.

In the Meantime:Preston Dyer served as Executive Secretary of IAHA for a few months at no salary, then returned to private business. Search is on for someone to handle this growing job. In early 1951, the Half Arabian and Anglo Arabian Registries were purchased by IAHA. They were then, and still are, a major source of revenue for IAHA. In 1951, Arabian classes were appearing at horse shows in several states and interest in the Arabian horse really began growing. IAHA was created basically for PROMOTION of the breed, and had the blessing of the Arabian Horse Registry of America, then located in Chicago, as they preferred to remain only a Registry with the avowed purpose of protecting the purity of the Arabian Horse. This purpose remains intact today!

In 1944 the Stud Book listed 306 members (of AFIRA) and 2924 registered purebreds. Six years later, the 1950 Stud Book listed 791 members and 6371 registered horses, an increase of 455 members and 3447 horses--way over 100 percent.

October 31, 1952. IAHA has 16 member clubs. Seven All Arabian shows were held that year, all but three of them in Southern California. "Several" National Shows now offering Arabian classes and they all have large entries. IAHA is receiving many requests from foreign countries for decals and other promotional materials. AHSA has added an Arabian Division in their rule book. The Half Arabian Registry issued 561 certificates, bringing the total of registered Half Arabians to 6,724. Then, THEN, the Montana Arabian Horse Association started to breathe again!! In July of 1953, a meeting chaired by Ralph Smith and attended by 11 members was held at the Northern Hotel in Billings. The highlight of this meeting was the presence of Preston Dyer from IAHA who showed films of the "Nationals" (consisting of TWO classes!) and of his trip to Egypt to obtain horses for the Hearst Ranch of California.

In October 1953, same setting, same cast, same problems "how do we get some horse shows going?" A new angle was proposed - to contact the state Quarterhorse and Palomino associations and propose shows to be held at the fairs throughout Montana each year. There were lots of volunteers for the costume classes. The secretary was instructed to write the necessary letters. Of course, that secretary was MRS. RALPH SMITH! !

January 1954. At the Ralph Smith Ranch home in Billings, 9 members and 8 guests in attendance. Palomino and Quarterhorse Associations willing to help with shows as proposed at the preceding meeting. Everybody willing and enthused, but everything is still indefinite. Election of officers was held with the following being elected: Ralph Smith, Pres; Elmer Olson, V.P.; Esther Smith, Secy-Treas; G. P. Rainsville and Wilber Quirk, directors. And now----there is a gap of 8 years in the minutes, until 1962. In 1956, however, the Midland Empire Horse Show Association was started, and from the beginning, the Arabian owners and members took an active part. The Midland Empire State Fair had sponsored an open horse show for years, and it is from that the name of the new association came. Also, the Lion's club had been active for a long time, and from the Lion's, Midland inherited Bill Hagen, Bill Felix and a very astute organization man named Hartman Graham. These three gentlemen of great determination and dedication made the "Midland" the premiere show of the Rocky Mountain circuit. Many many other Billings residents gave generously of time and money to make this happen, but lest I offend some by the omission of their names, I shall not try to name them. "Midland" first put in some Arabian classes, finally were able to give us a Class A show as the sound barrier was finally broken.

We resume in the next issue February 1962. The minutes of this meeting are apparently lost, this information was gleaned from a "sort of" Newsletter. About thirty people attended. The purpose of the meeting was the reactivation of MAHA. An election was held, and Cynthia Embretson was elected secretary-treasurer, the beginning of a lengthy career in that position. It was also decided to have a NEWSLETTER!! Again the subject of an All Arabian horse show was of prime interest, but with no treasury it was, seemingly, the impossible dream. An Association had by now been formed in Western Montana and is already putting on a successful show at Kalispell! (Deja vu? Of course!)

April 1962. Members from six communities, plus Billings, were present. (28 years ago they came, why not now?) Guests were S. Watts Smyth of Cross U Bar ranch at Bighorn, Wyoming, and Lt. Gov. Paul Rice of Bynum, Montana. Mr. Smyth was a director of IAHA, and spoke on IAHA & AHSA rules - the "spot rule" being the most controversial. This had to do with high white and body spots, and was a very hot issue at the time. Mr. Rice's concern was also one that still has not changed the judging. December 1962. Newsletter reports there was a meeting in Glendive in October with "a nice turnout", but no minutes are available. Membership is growing steadily, and two of those members, John Tarr of Bridger and Sharon Guse of Choteau have returned to the fold in 1990. (Ed. note: In reading these old records and the names of the members, it seems that disillusionment, dire straights, divorces and death took a toll.)

June 1963. Two items of particular interest. (1) A stallion named EL GLAOUI was leased by the Flying C Arabians of Beehive from Venus Kilmer of Lusk, Wyoming-enter Danielle Darby (Schmidt), and (2) a stallion, also grey, also from Wyoming, NA IBN SOTEP, was the champion stallion at the Midland Empire Horse Show, at the age of two. The start of two legends, those of us who were there won't soon forget!!

October 1963. New officers, except for Cynthia, who remains at her post. The new president suggested ALL members be reporters---a good idea then, and still a good one. Membership has risen to an all time high of 54, three are still active members and two, the Tarr's (now of Cody) have recently renewed. Cynthia has seniority, Kathryn Martin and Dorothe Fisher are tied for second and third.

April 1964. "Midland" has become at Honor Show of AHSA (how proud we were!), and they have offered a Class B Arabian division. At lest, a breakthrough on the thorny horse show issue. Two and three eductional seminars and clinics were offered by the club each year, plus a film or guest speaker at each of the four meetings each year.

December 1964. Another election - Everyones changed hats except for our loyal Cynthia, who remains Secretary-Treasurer. Meeting had been held in October in Lewistown where items of discussion were (1) name change of the club, (2) Advertising nationally as a club, featuring members horses, (3) a Class A show in Eastern Montana, (4) a junior assn.

Somehow a copy of the "Midland" Newsletter got in the file--featuring Appaloosas! Cynthia had drug Dorothe to a meeting and they became The Membership Committee. Midland used to run a wicked railroad!!

May 1965. CLASS A!!! A long blessed last!! (Remember, the main reason for the founding of this organization was to have an Arabian show----back in 1948. "Midland" agreed to offer a Class A division for Arabians on a use-it-or-lose-it' basis. It was also decided not to change our name!!! Proposed name had been MAHA of Eastern Montana, as the Kalispell group had named themselves the Western Montana Arabian Horse Club. The Arabian representation at the first Midland Class A was tremendous, with horses coming from as far as Salt Lake City and Scottsdale. We are on our way!!

February 1966. The usual fall election had been held in October, and Cynthia passed the Secretary-Treasurers hat to Ann Ayres, who had moved to Billings. "Midland", in the person of Bill Felix, expressed appreciation of our support and will again offer a Class A show in 1956. We graduated to an official letterhead, and a decal designed by Kathryn Martin was made available to members for 50¢. Support of 4H shows by our members was recommended. Dues were increased and a bylaws revision was presented. Three meetings instead of four per year was discussed.

April 1966. At a January meeting in Great Falls there was a discussion--a very warm discussion--about an All Arabian show in Great Falls in the summer of 1966. Where there is fire there must be smoke, and in this heat and smoke there was lots of misunderstandings. Hence, no show there, and a new club was born, the TRI Club. No minutes are available, only the Newsletter editors memories. (not THIS editor's!!!)

January 1967. Election - again? By now the officers names are more familiar.

Dick Hamilton as Vice President, Cynthia back in the Secretary's position, Kathryn is the Newsletter editor. Winter Fair offering a non-approved Arabian show, and donations were requested. MAHA gave $20 and all manpower was furnished by members. The financial reports are not included in these Newsletters, but this issue notes we are desperate for funds, dues especially. Considering this, our $20 to the Winter Fair was quite generous.

March 1967. This issue of the Newsletter included the President's report of the 1966 IAHA convention. Affiliated clubs total 74, total membership is 5,300. 7,392 Half Arabians and Anglo Arabians were registered in the past 12 months. And, gentle readers, the President REALLY said the following: "An invitation to ANYONE to avail themselves of the opportunity to let him know what they think should be done by International." (Ed. No President would extend that invitation now!)A 3-judge system for the Nationals was instigated, very loose. IAHA sold their magazine to Tom Funston, who will call it The Arabian Horse News, as of February 15, 1967.

Attendance at meetings is rapidly diminishing and ideas to rejuvenate this matter occupied much of the meeting. Programs, speakers and films were most often suggested. (Apparently no solution was found, as that problem is now critical.) Show entries dropped accordingly as the number of available shows increases. (Nothing changes, eh?) News from members filled pages as did the ads. The Newsletter hit a new high in news content under Kathryn's tutelage--she should patent and sell her successful formula

June 1967. At the May meeting the first item of business was "re-organization." Four possibilities were presented by the presiding officer, VP Dick Hamilton, and of the four, "plan 3" was by far the most acceptable to the 25 members present. Plan 3 consisted of (a) Encourage local clubs with MAHA remaining the parent association, (b) Drop Associate memberships (c) have only 2 meetings a year, May and October, (d) 2 year terms of office, (eO. six Newsletters per year, and (f) a high point award to be given to the high point Purebred and one to the high point Half Arabian. (Ed. note; item F has grown to large proportions, item E still goes on with six issues of the Newsletter per year. We do have two year terms (as does IAHA) but somewhere along the way Associate Memberships became reinstated and now average 10-12 a year. To my knowledge, only one "club" exists, in Bozeman, and many of their members keep their IAHA affiliation with MAFTA. ) October 1967. No meeting report, but pages of show results--we sure were busy!!!

February 1968. Two BIG items. The executive officer of The Registry, Ward Howland, will speak at our Mey meeting in Lewistown. The second biggie was the offer from the Midland Empire Fair Board to sponsor a 2-day All Arabian horse show with the Fair on August 5-6. We had a member on the Fair Board, by the way. Now Billings has two Class A shows each year, neither sponsored by the Association. NILE came later.

August 1968. At last- high point RULES! "Midland" no longer even hesitates to offer a Class A division. The Saddle Club Arabian division if growing, and is still a fun-and-get-the-kinks-out show to open the season.

December 1968. Election year again. Dick Hamilton elected President; Kathryn Martin Secretary; Dorothe Fisher on Newsletter and Cynthia a Director. And they are STILL working!! This was the year Wayne Newton sent some of his black Arabians to the NILE show, which was then held in the auditorium that burned a few weeks later!! (Ed: Newton's horses boarded at the Fisher's, and Dorothe got to show one of them!)

Both high point awards went to Bozeman that year. We appointed two delegates to the IAHA convention, Bob and Mary O'Donnell. As the treasury was at the $50 point, a white elephant auction was held and brought in the enormous sum of $89. And such a painless way to almost triple the kitty...

In 1968, the IAHA convention had 134 delegates from 84 member associations with a total of 7100 members. This year there will be nearly 500 delegates from 250 clubs with approximately 30,000 members. Growth continues, and problems go with growth.

May 1969. Bozeman hosted the meeting. Items discussed were our anemic treasury, a directory of club members, the rejection of the Arabian Horse World of an ad for our directory, trail rides and race training. Our founder, Ralph Smith has passed away and a memorial high point performance trophy was established.

November 1969. Billings Chamber of Commerce is now The Cellar, and was the scene of the meeting. Another white elephant sale gave the treasury a much needed transfusion. After dinner, the high point program discussion dominated the meeting, more categories were added, and sponsors volunteered--this is for the 1970 awards. A rules committee was appointed. A Jack Bennt show for "adult novices" is in the planning stages, and the Saddle Club has offered use of their facility. The 1969 directory listed 50 members.

May 1970. Lewistown. Treasury booming with 9530-31--before the IAHA dues were paid! All motions passed except those requiring the spending of monies - - such a thrifty group. Newsletter full of horses for sale, but almost none under "wanted." One "wanted" was from a Marine who was about to be discharged, and was seeking a Palomino "with white stocks and dark hooves." Yes, he said he was seeking his DREAM HORSE. (Do you think he ever found that horse?)

September 1970. At a Board meeting, Dick Hamilton and Dorothe Fisher were appointed delegates to the IAHA convention. Trophy sponsors were to select their own trophies or give money to the club to do so, each sponsor to determine what they want to spend.

October 1970. In Billings. An equine art exhibit was the decor. A record 78 members attended. Bill Hagen was MC. A movie, lots of door prizes, and 9 high point awards were presented. Convention resolutions were discussed, and soundly cussed! This is done so the general membership understands the issues before the convention, how they might effect us locally, and to give the delegates instructions, if they wish. From the minutes it appears there was a LOT of input. Local show problems all came under fire, the hottest issue being stabling at the Billings fair grounds. (Imagine!)

January 1971. Board meeting. Again, the high point program was under fire.
A Bob O'Donnell sportsmanship trophy, a memorial to a very special member, was proposed but apparently never became a reality. A shame--but think about it--how would a recipient ever be selected? A suggestion was made to have a high point award fund, as the expense was getting too large for our treasury. All present strongly in favor. (But then what happened?) The Board decided to ask an IAHA director to visit our next meeting to explain purposes and goals of IAHA. It is never again mentioned in the minutes, but the speaker ended up being Ralph Clark of The Registry. A MAHA futurity and a youth association were suggested. Both were tabled. May 1971. Bozeman. 30 present. Stallion service auction brought in $677.50 to a needy Treasury, bringing the balance to $1197.85--an all time high record! A MAHA Code of Ethics was proposed by Beck Hubbell, was duly seconded and went into the July Newsletter. Never referred to again either in minutes or Newsletter. (Ed. note: This was before the IAHA came up with such a code, still a hot potato.)

November 1971. Billings. Approximately 60 present, including guests. Five high point awards presented, down from nine the previous year due to cost and duplications evidenced in previous years. (It still didn't work--one horse won three of the five!!!) Almost all the business that evening concerned the High Point program. The concensus was 8 trophies, voluntarily sponsored by members. Another stallion service auction will be held at the 1972 fall meeting. As a sideline, 1971 was the infamous VEE year, when the Nationals and the convention were held back to back in November in Oklahoma City. Both were very tense and not fun. Shortly after that strenuous week, the Arabian Horse Society sponsored a Show Management Seminar in Denver, paying the expenses for 3 members from each of 110 clubs. Two attended from MAHA and came home dedicated to putting on THE PERFECT SHOW!

February 1972. Newsletter item. Another change in high point rules, and a demand (not a gentle plea) to get the info to the committee in charge of tabulation. It is not a new problem, but it is still a bad one!!! This month's Newsletter gem was: Success comes in cans. Failure in Can'ts.

May 1972. Bozeman. Youth judging team and queen contests were discussed, not much interest in either: judging team ended up "Let's try it via the Newsletter the queens vetoed completely. (The National IAHA queen contest didn't last long, either.)

June 1972. The "midland" show almost didn't happen. largely due to help from MAHA members, it did get off the ground and did fly. (Note, this is in 1972!)

September 1972. The MAHA and the WMAHC of Kalispell-Missoula area had a joint meeting in Helena. 26 attended, 13 from each group. It was informative as well as fun. It was unanimously decided to do this annually!! Guess what (ed. note; Now that we are in different Regions, it gets harder to pull off.)

November 1972. Billings. Guest Ralph Clark of The Registry spoke on the new registration rules and new programs of the Registry. Bill Hagen conducted the stallion service auction, which increased the Treasury by $455• This doubled our bank balance. High Point awards were presented - 8 of them - going to 4 horses from Western Montana. Election time again. Of the eight elected, five have moved away, the remaining three (Dick, Kathryn & Dorothe) still are at it. Outgoing president, Kathryn Martin, gave a thought-provoking farewell address on whether MAHA is to be a social organization or an organization for the promotion of the Arabian horse. If it is promotion, members should support their officers, their club, and the club activities. That "sermon" is still timely today. At the 1972 Nationals, our own Patty Hubbard and her stout-hearted mare, Dolce Vita, won the Reserve National Championship in Native Costume, by the flip of a coin, which was how the 3-judge system worked in those days!!! She was first on 2 cards, but tied for points!!!!! (Ed, note: Dolce Vita also won a Top Ten in Side Saddle, with Melissa Hubbard riding in 1976. Vita was presented at the 1990 Region 6 Show for her Legion of Honor, and the Supreme Legion of Honor, accompanied in the ring by Patty and Melissa. Vita is now 27 years old, almost blind, and still all heart.)

January 1973. Board meeting at Big Timber. Officers are from Bozeman and Billings, and the Big Timber location is half way for both. President recommended these changes: (1) Include out-of-state shows in the high point program, (2) stop publishing the MAHA directory as we lose money on each issue, (3) Board meetings open to all.

March 1973. Board meeting at Big Timber. High point tabulations to be done by a non-exhibitor, this party to be known only to the President. Books to be available for inspection one week before the awards banquet. Decided to continue directory if it can become self supporting. Members of other Arabian clubs in the state invited to advertise. The Bob O'Donnell award finally a reality, Bill Hagen the recipient. Tri Club to be invited to the May meeting.

May 1973. Bozeman. Approximately 35 in attendance. New high point rules "unveiled". Youth judging committee had no report. Queen contest committee asks for more time. Winner of the 1972 4-H high point award still not announced. The Fair Show in Billings cancelled, we can have a booth and a live horse exhibit in E Barn, instead, to be manned by volunteers. That brought the only laugh of the evening. Dr. R. F. Barter of Idaho was guest speaker, subject was on judging the Arabian horse.

September 1973. Board meeting at Big Timber. Fair booth cost $35.00, rest covered by donations. High point rules expanded to cover the Nationals. Was decided that a business meeting will be necessary at the Awards Banquet.

November 1973. Billings. A most festive awards banquet was planned and decorated by Danielle Schmidt, and attended by approximately 50 members and guests. Again, a duplication of awards with 7 going to two owners. Seems to be no way to avoid the situation. (Ed. When you're hot, you're hot!) Among the VIP guests were Kathryn Wright of the Gazette, Myrtle Cooper, research librarian of the Public Library, Bob Glasgow of the Midland Empire Fair, and Allen Walton from NILE. MAHA gave a collection of very select research books on the Arabian horse to the library, and these were graciously accepted by Mrs. Cooper. Bill Hagen was presented the Bob O'Donnell Memorial Sportsmanship Award--an old style microphone appropriately mounted on a hardwood base with an inscribed limerick. Bill and his favorite fan, his wife Edie, were also presented with letters from Senator Mike Mansfield, Congressman John Melcher, Governor Tom Judge and Mayor Joe Leone, and a photo of that presentation was in the Gazette the following morning. Allen Walton discussed lack of Arabian support of NILE, and asked for suggestions to improve the situation. Bob Glasgow asked if we would support a show at the Fair if it were reinstated. No youth committee report. No queen committee report. High point committee still having problems with unenforcable rules, and the usual lack of involvement by the members. Two youth awards were added. The meeting ended on a hilarious note with the auction of the centerpieces by Danielle and Bill Hagen. (Ed. note: No one was safe---and I still have one, tho the price I don't recall. Am sure it was exorbitant, or why would I have kept it for 17 long years??)

November 1974. Bozeman. High point awards, now a total of 10, went to 3 people. No youth judging report (ho hum). 43 directories sold, voted to have one in 1975. Dick Hamilton proposed a resolution regarding a National trail class. Approved. High point tabulator resigned. Dues increase discussed and passed. The Montana Arabian Merit Award program was introduced to the membership, along with a bronze trophy to be the award. Rules were given to a committee for rework, and said committee welcomes suggestions. As usual, the Awards Banquet ended in a hassle, and as usual, it was suggested we cut the number of awards given. (We did - to nine!) Dick Hamilton was once again elected president.

January 1975. Board meeting. A clinic has been arranged, to be held in Bozeman and featuring Ron Palelek on May 3-4. Advertizing budget discussed, decided to put a one time ad in the World, other publications would be sent calendar notices. Other fund raisers were discussed, namely a tack sale and a stallion service sale by ticket rather than the usual auction, subject to approval at next general meeting.

May 1975. Bozeman, following the Palelek clinic. All quiet until the MAMA subject came up. Suggestions ranging from changes in the point system to a complete revision of the whole program. After the smoke cleared, the MAMA passed!!!

Tabulators were appointed, and MAMA becomes part of the real world. A moment of silence was observed in memory of Vivian Hubbard (Mrs. Hale, mother of Patty and Melissa), who had passed away just a few days previously.

July 1975. Board. $200 was cleared on the Palelek clinic. MAMA under the gun again, but only rule technicalities, not the program in general. The Region 6 show, sponsored by "midland", showed a profit of just over $200. Billings to have the Region show again next year, then it goes to Wyoming. (ed. note: originally, each sponsor got the Region show for two years in a row, which had both advantages and disadvantages. The Region 6 Board changed it to the present rotation system soon after.) Half Arabian participitation was kicked around, as was the ever present membership and advertizing problems.

November 1975. Billings. Awards banquet time again! All winners except one were first timers. Cynthia Embretson was recognized for her many years of service to MAHA. One horse has won the MAMA in one year, tho the minutes do not name the horse or owner. (Arebaroh, maybe?) The MAMA tabulations were available for inspection by members. As usual, a high point award debate, ending with a slight change in the youth categories and the addition of a maiden rider award. MAMA under fire, too, amending rules to read a National championship means an automatic MAMA. Moved and seconded to have FOUR general meetings a year, plus a separate NON BUSINESS Awards banquet. A request for MAHA to sponsor a youth judging team was discussed, with a duly recognized motion, and second, and it PASSED!!! (How many years?) A two-year old gelding was raffled to aid in the expenses of the team, the donor unnamed. And this was the unforgettable meeting where an authentic Turkish belly dancer performed to authentic music----and later gave lessons.

October 1976. Billings. Election time again. For fun, we had a baby contest, with baby pictures of 8 members, when they were still young and cute!! Patti Neibauer guessed all eight and won the T-bird. Turd-bird that is, our award at the time. The youth judging team gave a report on their adventures at the Nationals. (No details, that is all the minutes have to say on the subject!) Dick Hamilton elected President. A report was given on a statewide Arabian meeting, all that the minutes report is that it was held on October 16th. Fascinating, eh? High Point awards were well spread around - it CAN happen! For the first time, reserve ribbons were presented to runners-up, which was well received and general concensus was that it continue. And the second Bob O'Donnell Memorial Sportsmanship was presented by Dick Hamilton to Dorothe Fisher. (Minutes say "Dorothe was quite moved". As I recall, I bawled like a baby, and I still treasure it, a beautiful book.) Following the meeting, a quick Board meeting was held. Determined to use the same point system for 1977, and, after a long debate, it was determined to use the same tabulation system for both the High Point and the MAMA. A nomination fee was raised to $35 and $15, which was to pay for the program. (It didn't, more changes to come!)

March 1977. A "beginners" clinic was sponsored by MAHA at a local indoor arena. It really WAS beginners, even the demonstrators were members, doing their speciality. Coffee and hot soup were served, prepared and served by members. Net? $200, of course. (If we get an Activities Committee going again, this is worth consideration.)

May 1977. Billings. Sure enough, a high point debate, with a winner complaining!!! A new tabulator was appointed, and volunteers for the high point awards signed up.

November 1977. Billings. Five horses won 10 awards. Trophy program to be changed, a committee was appointed. Convention delegates were named.

February 1978. Billings. As usual, ".Minutes were read and, approved, and a treasurer's report was given. (No figures and no copy of this report are in the records.) Two members volunteered to head a youth group. A MAMA flag was voted for, and is to be designed , made up, and displayed at the Arabian Horse Fair in Reno. A high point study committee was appointed to give a report at the April meeting. (And they did!)

May 1978. Billings. The Appaloosa Nationals are coming to Billings!!!! They will sponsor an All Breed endurance ride, MAHA voted to sponsor a trophy. Region 6 show and election will be in Cheyenne, and delegates were appointed. A lighted display map of Montana breeders to be made for the Region 6 booth in Reno. Each breeder to pay a fee to have their light on the map. The high point study committee submitted a report with their recommendations, and after lengthy discussion, and some amendments, the program was accepted on a three year basis effective January 1979.

November 1978. Billings. The long-awaited PIAHA flag was presented. It was paid for by a bake sale, and an eagle topped pole was donated. (We still have the flag!!) Bank balance is $989.30 with some outstanding bills yet to be paid. Convention delegates were apppointed, the convention this year being in San Francisco. Another high point "debate", resulting in the resignation of the tabulation committee. Membership voted to have a show in 1979 and a study committee appointed, consisting primarily of the newly elected Board. Garry Freeman of the Registry spoke on the freeze branding program and registration applications. Four MAMA's were presented.

January 1979. Board meeting. Treasurer reports a balance of $391.18. A Rgion 6 directory will replace the individual club directories. A new tabulator was appointed to replace the one who resigned. The show study committee gave a report on the proposed show, suggesting it be held in Metra, during the Fair!!!!! Further discussion with Bob Glasgow necessary. An Arabian sale by the Montana College of Auctioneering to be held during the Saddle Club show.

March 1979. Board meeting. Treasurer reports $754.18. Board voted to replace inactive Board members according to the by-laws. Show study committee reports NO CHANCE for show in 1979, Board recommended go for it in 1980.

May 1979. Board. 36 horses consigned to Diamond B Arabian sale to be held June 3rd at the fairgrounds. Board voted to add a $5 penalty for dues after April 30th. Associate membership idea discussed and decided it would be of no value. (HA!) March 1979. General meeting (sorry, this is out of sequence!) High point rules clarified, to be reprinted in the next Newsletter. 1980 show discussed and decision made to try for it. Board meetings hereafter will precede the General Meetings, and any Board member missing over two meetings will be replaced.

May 1979. General Meeting. Show committee gave a status report. Region directory update given. Status reports on the Saddle Club and Midland shows were given. Discussion on the Diamond B sale, and also Atchison's sale to be held in June.

August 1979. Board. 72 paid up members. $566.46 in the bank account. Show manager appointed for the 1980 show. A private treaty sale will be held in conjunction with the show and a purebred gelding will be raffled. (No donors name appears in the minutes.)

September 1979. General. No minutes or treasurers report presented. Midland will sponsor the Region show in 1980. New tabulation committee for Hi Point MAMA. IAHA dues are to be increased: A Region 6 resolution to withdraw from AHSA was discussed at considerable length, the final decision being to go along with the other Region delegates at the convention. (This was a hot item that year, ended up being tabled, where it remained for several years. The battle still rages on.) 1980 shows and plans were explained and members were urged to support them in any they could. Three members offered to work out the details for a youth-lease program, as many interested youth do not have the wherewithal to purchase their own Arabian.

November 1979. General meeting in Billings. No minutes or treasurer's report given. At the convention, another dues increase passed, hence our MAHA dues must increase accordingly. Moved, seconded and passed to have $45 family, $30 single, and the IAHA portion per members is $15. Ted Gibson has been contacted to judge the 1980 MAHA show and to put on a clinic. A portable TV to be raffled to raise funds for preliminary show expenses. A by-laws study committee was appointed. Youth-lease committee, now called youth activities committee, reported they are working on numerous ideas that are both practical and thought-provoking, and there's more to come. High point awards were given to 5 horses, and no fight recorded in the minutes.

Up to this point in time...

This is where the "original" history stopped. Somehow, ten years have been added, and it is time to pick up the tag ends again. Up to now, I have avoided using names of parties involved, for what I think are obvious reasons. Perhaps it spoils the impact--and from here on, names will be used more often. After all, what would any history be without names of those who made that history""'

You will also notice, in all probability, that the original big issue and reason for founding the Montana Arabian Horse Association was to get first classes in shows, and later on, to have our own shows. That has been accomplished, but that brought different problems, with which we are still coping. Nothing stays the same--you grow or you die, but you don't stay the same, and that is very true of our club. IAHA, our parent, has had the same problems, and they get hotter and heavier also, as we grow and expand. I often miss the "good old days", but in a short time, today will be the good old days. the original title of this history was READ THEM AND WEEP, and I feel it still is appropriate. And, now, read on:

The last ten years of M.A.H.A.

January 1980: Board Meeting. With a treasury balance of $418.27, the Board takes on a courageous project of (1.) a sale, (2.) a clinic, and (3.) a show!! Of course, fund raising was a high priority, with many suggestions including a trip to Las Vegas raffle, a horse raffle, and a TV raffle, along with selling candy. Also getting early sponsorships and advertising. (See? The more things change, the more they stay the same!) Apparently the Midland Empire Horse Show Assn was sponsoring the Regional show that year, and at that time the shows were still held in front of the grand stand.

Next minutes are dated September 20th. The show broke even, but we lost money on the clinic, due to the costs of putting it on versus the poor attendance. We are $1400 in the hole. Several money-raising ideas were discussed, but as none of the ideas have been supported by the general membership, all were dropped. The MAMA program, at that time supported by the club, is also very expensive. For the first time, incorporation of the club was considered and discussed.

November 1980, General Meeting and election of officers. Financial report shows we are unable to pay $1540.81 in show expenses. A ten-year membership program was suggested and adopted, with a $150 MAHA membership to be paid for ten years. Any memberships over that required $1500.00 to go into CD's. This was achieved,NOT readily. (Ironically, most of those generous souls who gave their money quickly and willingly are no longer active, and that program expires at the end of this year, 1990.) A show & sale committee was appointed for 1981. Yea and verily, hope springs eternal! The last of the MAMA's were presented, as well as the high point awards, -almost all going out of town.

March 7, 1981, General Meeting. Activities besides a show, and the need for more involvement of the membership were a matter of concern. Suggestions of Trail rides, fun shows and education programs were made. The Fair, now called Yellowstone Exhibition, approved our proposal for enlarging the 4-H ring--they provide material, we provide labor, for 7 years free rent. Committees were appointed for the preliminary work and the follow up work. A Private Treaty sale is planned, and the premium list was finalized. A major change was the requiment to enter stakes classes before the qualifying class is shown--as the stakes classes were woefully small. That passed. Add back purses did not pass. Members to sell advertising and sponsorhips at NO COMMISSION. Freeze branding will be held by AHRA..

June 1981. MAHA has 52 members!!! This means two delegates to IAHA this year. A Board Member suggested we sell Certificates to the members to raise money for the show, maturity date to be one year from date purchased. Samples were presented, however there are none in the files for evidence. New MAMA program discussed. As usual, workers to prepare for the show are needed. Next meeting to be in LEWISTOWN!!! September 1981, General Meeting, Lewistown. Small attendance, but a good time had by all. A home-made pie auction was held as a benefit to a member who had lost home in a fire. We were only $049.75 in debt at this juncture.

The subject of the membership potential being wasted was discussed, but it was strongly felt that the vice president was the membership chairman, according to our by-laws, and it was his prerogative to handle it as he pleased, either do it alone or have a committee. An activities committee was appointed by the President. (That President, and all off that committee soon after discontinued their memberships!!!)

September 1981, At Atchisons's following the Fun Show. Fun show broke about even, and, if good will was bankable, it made a bundle. All our bills are paid!!! There is $2350 in the War Chest (the Certificates mentioned above), but as we are not a corporation, the money could not be deposited on interest, so it was agreed that the money be refunded on demand, the club to pay the interest accrued from the general fund (We have since incorporated the Association, so this is a viable idea for the future.)

November 1981. There is money in the Treasure - - $4,352.88, with all bills paid!! The Board, at the insistence of the membership chairman, approved Associate memberships the letter of invitation that would go out with the application to prospective members. MAMA program to be continued, with Laurie Martin to do the artwork. It was requested to have the roster of officers be included on the first page of every Newsletter.

At the General Meeting the Activities Committee presented a proposed schedule for 1981, with an activity planned for every month of the year!! At that time there were four general meetings per year, and an activity planned for every month no meeting was held. The variety was impressive ranging from clinics by vets and trainers, to parties, to hands-on horse training seminars, trail rides and fun shows.

It was decided to have two 1-day shows, preceding Midland, instead of one 2-day show. No sale this year. A sign for the new arena was discussed and approved. (This year at the Region show, that famous sign was the backdrop for the win pictures!)

January 1982. All "War Bond" money has been repaid, with the donors forfeiting interest. Again, this brought forward the discussion of incorporation of MAHA. Money was donated by a member toward the costs of incorporation. This means we will have to file a tax report, but as a non-profit organization we will probably not have to pay. However, a penalty is charged for not filing. Dinner was Pot Luck-and training video tapes were shown,

July 1982. By-laws revision discussed, particularly regarding selection of delegates to IAHA. Region 6 will host the convention in 1986, and the clubs will be assessed on a per member basis for the money to do this. (This was an ongoing bone of contention!)Honorary memberships were given to Darlene & Jack Sannon, Jayne and Gordon Weidler and Bill Hagen.

October 1982. Treasurer reports 35,950.78 with nothing outstanding!! High point award sponsors volunteered, hence the cost is not borne by the club, Honorary memberships will be presented with a framed certificate, and also decided to give Appreciation Certificates to special workers and sponsors. (It happened in 1990, finally!)

February 1983. Things moving along in regular fashion. New committees have been appointed to submit reports for each Newsletter. The Youth Committee, and the Activities Committee were the only ones to do so for a while. An interesting and varied activities schedule was submitted to the Board and promptly tabled.

The idea of a PAPA award (People Are Positive Assets), to encourage participation in club affairs was the highlight of this committee's labors, rules and a point schedule were proposed. Then it died. Also a membership drive was proposed, with prizes to the members bringing, in the most NEW members. That died, too. An assessment to the club of $15 per member was SUGGESTED.

A club logo was also discussed and members were asked to send in suggestions. (As we now use several, that apparently went no further.) April 1983. As the new movie, THE BLACK STALLION, is premiering all over the country, it was deemed appriopriate to have a black horse in Rimrock Mall near the theatres. The Youth Committee put the fire into this, and a members horse was used, with great success, and great appeal to the general public. Youth sold post cards, posters, shirts, etc. and made almost $600.00. Activity Committee planning a tack swap for May 14th, and a stallion service raffle for June 27th. The latter was a benefit for the Arabian Horse Center in Denver. May 1983. This was when it was decided that the MAMA program must be self supporting, and a $15 nomination fee, plus 13.50 per point was established. A change in the categories of the High Point program were made, to be distributed by Newsletter. (If you think these are coming up pretty often, keep in mind that the way people show changes frequently; too, and this is an effort to keep current with the 'times'.)

1983 set a record of sorts for meetings---14 Board meetings, and 4 General meetings. We also sent the Arabian Horse Trust a$1,000 payment on our $3,000 pledge.

January, 1984. Board meeting. Show planning. Over $10,000 in the treasury. The Activities committee presented a tentative schedule for events every month except January and December.

January 1984. General Meeting. A Slave Auction was held, whereby members donate a service which is sold to the highest bidder. It was hilarious, well received, and netted us $408.00. 1984 meetings were very routine, regarding show and endurance/competitive ride details, The show had problems with bad checks from exhibitors, and the rides lost money. A Fun Show, called in this case The Last Rose of Summer Horse Show was planned to be held at Atchison's. And, again, it is election year, a nominating committee was appointed.

October 1984. A baby picture contest was held, some sneaky soul had accumulated these pictures of various members in their extreme youth. Patti Kilts identified them all!! The election turned out to be rather painful, with floor nominees defeating the committes selections, and five members withdrawing or declining. (Only a beginning!!)

January 1985. Second installment of our $3,000 pledge to the Arabian Trust was paid. Treasury has a balance of $7,298.31 with nothing outstanding. It was voted by the Board that the Newsletter be our official "notifier" (from the minutes) of the club, and the Board is to approve all contents of said Newsletter before publication. A Youth Club director was appointed, to write by-laws for the Youth Club, and to be present at all Board meetings. High point chairman resigned and Kathryn Martin was appointed to replace her. New format for the Newsletter was discussed.

March 1985. Newsletter editor resigned, new one appointed. Motion passed to make the youth director an elected position, and to change the by-laws accordingly. (As there is no copy prior to the 1988 revision available, it is not known if this was ever done.)

April 1985. A member volunteers to be the youth director, and is already working on the agenda for the youth for the rest off the year. The matter of the youth director being a Board member was discussed--purpose is that Board to be kept apprised of their activities.

September 1985. We have a treasury of $10,582.69, but of this amount, almost $4,000 is already committed. the Trust, the Region VI convention, and 5 or 6 MAMA II's. Great Falls scheduled to hold the next Regional Show, due to the alphabetical rotation system schedule. further information was available. (Great Falls didn't have it, we did!!). A half-day Youth Show endurance/competitive was discussed, to precede the Alpha-Beta shows. Decided to have endurance/competitive rides to go back to same location as this year. (WHERE?)

October 1985. No committee reports were available. It was decided to allow late nominations for the MAMA awards, as long as verifiable records are available. We now have 109 members, hence are qualified for three delegates to the convention. Committee chairman for delegate expense money-raising projects was appointed. Newsletter will only come out when enough material merits. NILE, had a record number' of Arabian entries this year, and next year we will be given a full day. Five MAHA members to be put on the NILE horse show board. Also, please note the following paragraph printed in full as it appeared in the minutes: MOTION THAT WE SUPPORT BILL CHIESA IN REGARD T0 ENTRIES AND WORKERS FOR ARABIAN SHOW SPONSORED BY THE FAIRGROUND - PROFITS OF WHICH WILL GO BACK INTO BARNS. SHOWS TO BE POSSIBLY HELD IN APRIL/MAY AND AT FAIR TIME. SECONDED AND CARRIED. D. A committee was appointed to meet with Mr. Chiesa.

February 1986. With all bills paid, the bank balance is $6,413.59. Insurance is due, double last year. PAY! ! THE FAIRGROUNDS HAS DECIDED AGAINST HOLDING A SPRING SHOW. An open show was to he offered during the Fair. Ceramic trophies for Region show were discussed, model to be made locally. (Yeah, folks, it was beautiful!) Judges are confirmed for all shows, inquiries coming in from every direction. HELP NEEDED IN ALL AREAS ...

June 11, 1986. Board Meeting. Treasurer's resignation accepted.

July 7, 1986. Board Meeting. New treasurer elected. One Board member replaced as he had missed more then two meetings with no explanation of absence. New Newsletter editor appointed. (Probably our darkest hour, but MAHA survived, and has marched steadily onward.)

September 1986. Nice fat bank account, $22,221.24, with all Bills paid. Was voted to pay Show Manager, Secretary and clerks $500 piece--two declined, three were paid. Time to start plans for the 1987 shows. Committee appointed to find a manager. Most of discussion was regarding the IAHA Convention, which is to be in Bismarck in Nov. Besides our cash contribution, MAHA furnished favors in the form of art work, beef jerky and cookies.

October 1986. Another election. (Boy, these years do go by fast!) Convention plans high on the agenda, as convention only a few weeks away and being held in our Region. The convention was memorable mostly because of a two-day real old fashioned blizzard set in, insuring the delegates stayed in the hotel, and for lack of other entertainment, the meetings and general sessions were very well attended. This was the year that the Anglo Arabian became a first class citizen, equal to the Half-Arabian. They ARE different!

December 1986. New Board takes over. Many loose ends, such as bad checks from the shows, no membership chairman, corporation papers not completed, what to do with #1 of MAMA I, things still in a state of turmoil from the Region show and consequent problems.

November 1987. Two Board resignations already. Both were replaced at the meeting.

January 1988. Noticeable change in the files starting here, mostly including a great deal of correspondence, particularly pertaining to the Trail Rides. It would have been a great help in compiling this "history" if more committee reports had been in writing, as well as reports by chairmen of various activities. All the minutes have shown is a treasurers report, and the Newsletters don't fill in a whole lot. This is not meant as criticism, I, too am guilty of the sin of omission. Food for thought?

March 1988. President resigned. Vice President moved up--he who had replaced the last VP, who resigned almost immediately after the election. The 1988 show was the biggest issue at the meeting, with the lack of volunteer help being a crucial situation. A by-laws revision was presented.

May 1988. New President resigned, then withdrew his resignation, so he remains in the chair. A new Vice President was elected from the members present. Rest of meeting devoted to show problems, which consisted mainly of a volunteer shortage. Membership is down, due to the large dues increase by IAHA.

October 1988. Treasurer report a balance of $6,917.70. No financial report on the show or the trail ride were available. We seem to have IRS problems, and treasurer instructed to find an accountant and get it straightened out. MAHA received a request from the ride steward to again host the Region VI rides for 1989, referred to the trail ride committee. The nominating committee gave their report, the treasurer nominee declined, a new one was nominated and the slate elected without further ado. (Whew!)

Also, in October 1988, minutes of a Trail/Endurance meeting are included. Plans for the 1989 rides are in good shape, with approvals applied for and personnel appointed. In November we received a letter from the IRS which was favorable to MAHA, also giving us guidelines for the future tax report filings. Again, WHEW! !!

January 1989. The new Board met, and the report of the outgoing, treasurer dominated the evening. A full explanation of our tax status was given, and a "job description" was given the incoming treasurer. The 1988 show lost $2,857, leaving us a balance of $6,954.41. The President announced MAHA will host the Region Championship show in 1990, to be held June 23-24. We also have a new Region Director, who promises a Newsletter to the Region members to keep us in better communication with other clubs. A show manager and a secretary were announced, and the premium list is under way for 1989.

A Ride Committee meeting was held the same month, and they are in good shape for preparations. Publicity and advertising were discussed and the job appointed.

May 1989. Show plans well under way, the premium list is out, key jobs assigned, but the eternal need for volunteers in all areas was made. A painting will be raffled, and a raffle permit will be ordered, as well as tickets printed. Input for the 1990 Regional show is needed, and suggestions from all are welcome. Trail ride plans are current, it will be the Region Championships rides, sanctioned by AERC & EMDRA. Vets are hired, inquiries are coming in, it is all systems go.

August 1989. The Trail rides had a net 'Loss of $221.71, but were successful in all other aspects, with a total of 71 riders, and immense good will among them. An extensive report on the Regional show for next year was given, it is a huge undertaking, with many many details, and again, too few workers. Because of the size of the Cattle Drive, many things are on hold as the entire community is involved. Fund raising activities must be started immediately. The stallion, Diamond Drift, died at the grounds during this years show, and the club may be fined $500. The show steward is recommending the fine be set aside as the club was not at fault. An increase in AHSA membership and amateur card fees was discussed, and a questionnaire was completed by the Board for return to AHSA.

August 1989. Bob and Chris Stevens of Gillette were present at the General Meeting to explain the CamPlex to us and invite our consideration in using it for the Region show in 1990. It would be a wise financial move, but the personnel problem would not be answered. It was referred to the Show Committee. (We stayed in Billings!!)

January 1990. As two Board members have moved out of town, it was necessary to fill the two positions, and this was done at the meeting. A third Board member has been lax about attendance and will be given formal notice of pending termination. By-law revision discussed (ho hum), and a copy will be sent to all members with the next Newsletter. Was voted that MAHA sponsor the Region 6 endurance/competitive rides again this year. The big issue for 1990, the Regional show, was discussed at length, a large problem being portable stalls. Various assignments were made, with members being given sizable jobs. It is hoped to man all stations with members and volunteers. (We dream a lot in this outfit!)

March 1990. Show business, again. Premium list ready for the printer. 347 stall reservations are in, and 1200 requests for premium lists. Sponsorships are coming in and Trade Show space is being reserved. A professions PR person will be hired to do the advertising. The HELP helicopter will provide ambulance service if ok'd by AHSA.

At the general meeting, the booth at the Montana Outdoor Recreation Show was explained, we have a very large space at a minimum price of 3400, We need horses, hand out material, people to man the display, etc. a Pony Club is being started in Bi11ings, and they will have information regarding this at the booth. Dated March 16-18th. The TNT Club of Helena and the SMAHA of Bozeman have merged and are having a show in Bozeman June 7-3rd. A1so a show planned in Roundup requests a MAHA member give a Native Costume display.

August 1990. Board meeting. Due to illness of Treasurer, no report was available. We made money on the shows, but the final figure will not be available for some time. The report on the Trail Rides (Endurance, Competitive and Novice) were very favorable, with some enthusiastic letters from the Steward and several exhibitors. The financial report and statistics were not yet available. Membership is 103, giving us 3 delegates for this years IAHA convention. They will be members who have expressed a willingness and ability to attend, and names will be sent to IAHA in Denver. Two members are moving to Canada, but as it is so near election time, they will not be replaced. (Board seems to have a high mortality rate

The Nominating Committee gave their report, all offices but one having been filled. About one half the Board will be new and the others retained with different positions. The President warmly thanked all those who had served this term, in particular those going off for various reasons (such as moving, or by request). All Board members were requested to give the President a list of names of people they felt were deserving of special appreciation and certificates will be presented at the Awards Banquet. This is a FIRST, and we have many non-members who worked very hard at the shows, and in other capacities that deserve a show of appreciation. General discuss of show problems was held, and this info will be given at the IAHA convention at the Region Caucus. This is the only time they meet all year, and consists of delegates from all clubs in the Region. October 27th 1990. As per the By-laws, the election must be held in October of every even numbered year, and this was the purpose of this meeting. The slate of the nominating committee was elected unanimously and are as follows:

President - JUEL CRAWFORD
Vice President - DICK HAMILTON
Secretary - CONNIE AHRENS
Treasurer - MISSY LANGLAS
Newsletter - DIANE OSBORN
Board Members - RICK HAMILTON, DEBRA BONOGOFSKY, DOROTHE FISHER (membership ch.)
Outgoing President - CLAIRE JANSMA

History compiled by Dorothe Fisher
image





MAHA History
On June 5, 1948 in the Hunter's Room of the Billings Commercial club (which most recently has been The Cellar Resturant), the Montana Arabian Horse Association for Owners and Breeders was organized. The first President was Dr. J. R. Thompson of Miles City. Ralph H. Smith of Billings was the first Secretary-Treasurer. 14 members were present. pecial guests were Dr. and Mrs. Joder of Cheyenne, who told of an Interstate Organization being organized. (This was eventually to become The International Arabian Horse Association.)
Read the all story.....