Whether you’re an APHA member, national director, breeder, trainer, non-pro exhibitor or just a fan of Paint Horses, YOU’RE INVITED to attend the 2015 APHA Convention, February 27–March 2 at the DFW Marriott at Champions Circle in far north Fort Worth, Texas. From educational seminars to fun socials to discussions about the association’s future, we’ve got something for everyone at our annual Convention.
The 2015 APHA Convention, seminars and socials are 100 percent FREE, but seating is limited, so please register online or by contacting Theresa Brown at (817) 222-6403 or [email protected]. Highlights of this year’s event include:
Learn Something New
Education is at the forefront of the APHA Convention, including three great seminars in 2015:
- Dr. Rick Rigsby’s “Shared Leadership: Working Together”—February 28, 8 a.m.
A charismatic speaker with a larger-than-life personality, Dr. Rigsby was a hit last year, and you won’t want to miss this session, which will highlight how to be a better leader.
- “VR3: Volunteer Recruiting, Retention & Recognition”—March 1, 1 p.m.
This special session is presented by the Regional Club Committee—if you’re a regional club member or looking to get involved, make plans to attend for great tips on attracting and keeping volunteer superstars in your club.
- “The Game Plan”—March 1, 2:30 p.m.
Exhibitors, trainers, breeders and judges—get information straight from the experts about what judges are looking for in some of APHA’s most popular events. This is a great opportunity to brush up on your judging knowledge before show season kicks into full gear.
The Fun Stuff
Whether you’re a serious or casual Paint Horse enthusiast, make plans to attend these fun social events that take place during Convention:
- APHF Golf Tournament—Thursday, February 26, 12:30 p.m.
Make a difference in the lives of Paint Horse Youth by participating in the inaugural APHF Swing for College Golf Tournament. Taking place at the Convention headquarters, the tournament features a $15,000 hole-in-one challenge, closest to the pin contest, door prizes and more. Not a golfer? Try your hand at corn hole or cheer on the teams as a hole sponsor. All proceeds benefit AjPHA Youth Scholarships. More details are available at apha.com/foundation/golftournament.
- Welcome Reception—Friday, February 27, 7 p.m.
Get to know your fellow APHA friends during this low-key welcome reception, which features hors d’oeuvres, a cash bar and APHA sponsors.
- Explore Roanoke, Texas—Saturday, February 28, 5:30 p.m.
Hailed as “The Unique Dining Capital of Texas,” you’ll want to join APHA as we take over nearby Roanoke, Texas. More than 40 tasty dinner options are available, from the Hard Eight Bar-B-Que to Babe’s Chicken Dinner House and more. And check out great area shopping while you’re there, too. Get the scoop at roanoketexas.com.
- Hall of Fame & Awards Banquet—Sunday, March 1, 6:30 p.m.
Join APHA as we honor our third class of Hall of Fame inductees, along with other special award winners. Seating is limited for this popular function and it sells out early, so make your reservations soon. Dinner is included, and tickets are $63. A cash bar is available.
- NASCAR and Shopping Tours—Monday, March 2, Noon
Get your fill of adrenaline as you go behind-the-scenes at Texas Motor Speedway, one of NASCAR’s premier tracks and home of the Duck Commander 500. Or if premier shopping is more your thing, sign up for a boutique-shopping-and-lunch outing at the nearby Southlake Town Square.
- 2015 Youth Leadership Conference—February 27-March 1
Kids, this one’s just for you. Make plans to attend the 2015 Youth Leadership Conference—learn how to be a better Youth leader, stand out and make a difference in this fun event February 27-March 1. Watch for more details on apha.com or contact Director of Youth Activities Christine Henry to learn more.
Tending to Business
APHA business, including a “state of the association, rule change proposal voting and discussions regarding the association’s future, will take place at the Convention. All attendees are welcome to attend nearly any meeting, including the following:
- Check out the APHA state of affairs.
APHA Executive Director Billy Smith kicks off Convention with the APHA Progress Report and Strategic Plan presentation. He’ll give attendees a candid look at the association, where it stands and its plans for the future. Find out why APHA members have a lot to look forward to in 2015 and beyond.
- Pick up a 2015 Rule Book.
The new 2015 Official APHA Rule Book will be available for free at the Convention registration desk—pick one up, especially before The Game Plan seminar.
- Make your voice heard at committee meetings.
All Convention attendees are invited to attend almost any committee meeting and share your thoughts. With committees discussing everything from breed improvement to competition to ways to engage new and existing members, you’ll certainly find something you’re passionate about—make your voice heard! A tentative committee schedule can be found online.
- Attend the Board of Directors sessions.
APHA’s elected Board of Directors meet March 1 to discuss rule change proposals for 2016, and then vote on them March 2. While only directors can vote on the rule change proposals, any APHA member may attend the meeting.
Whether you’re deeply invested in the Paint Horse industry or just getting started, attending the APHA Convention is time well spent. Network with your peers, meet APHA leaders and get energized about improving yourself, your club and your impact on the association. Register today!
