UPHA 2021 Virtual National Conference
Dear Members,
2020 was filled with obstacles that caused all of us to change the ways we operate our businesses, barns, competitions and meetings. Together we not only navigated the constantly changing landscape of 2020, but we found a way to move forward when so many other sports came to a stop. UPHA is grateful to our members, sponsors, show organizers and breed organizations for their support.
Last week the National Conference was held virtually. During the Conference we said goodbye to two valued members of the Executive Board, Nancy Troutman (Secretary) and Chuck Herbert (Director at Large). Their vision for the Association, valued input and unselfish service will be missed.
At the Annual Meeting of the Members Missy Hughes- Smith (Secretary) and Jim Taylor (Director at Large) were welcomed to the Executive Board. Both individuals bring a wealth of experience and service to their office. I feel extremely fortunate to have them join the leadership of UPHA.
There is little doubt 2021 will be challenging, but I am certain UPHA is ready for any challenge we may face.
UPHA President
Membership Meetings
The Associate and Professional Annual Membership meetings were held virtually via Zoom on January 13, 2021. During both the Associate and Professional meetings, Frankie Trull spoke about the status of the PAST act and Ray Krussell, UPHA Treasurer, gave a finance report. The Equitation Committee announced they are revising the workout manual and it will be available soon to download at no charge for professional members; hard copies will be available for purchase for anyone interested. President, Cindy Mugnier encouraged members to get involved with committees and reach out to us if anyone is interested in serving.
The Associate members elected their panel of officers for 2021: President, Elizabeth Ghareeb, First Vice President Bridget NcNeese Cummins, Second Vice President Ling Fu Wylie and Secretary Anne Tasch. They have launched an Associate member Facebook page to increase communication with associate members.
The Professional members held their meeting later the same day where they passed the proposed bylaw changes. These changes make the Directors At Large position a voting seat on the Board of Directors and created a new category of membership for young professionals 35 or under. The Nominating Committee chaired by Tammie Conatser, presented their recommended slate of officers for 2021 which was approved by the membership: President Cindy Mugnier, First Vice President Nelson Green, and Second Vice President Josh Greer.
Changes to Hackney Classics
The UPHA Classics Committee recommended and the UPHA Board approved to offer a UPHA Classics Hackney Pony Park Pleasure Driving class instead of the UPHA Classics Hackney Pony Pleasure Driving class. This change will be in effect for the 2021 competition year and will allow professionals to compete and hopefully increase entries. Shows are encouraged to update their prize lists to reflect this change. Class specifications for this class will follow the USEF Hackney Division rules for Single Hackney or Harness Pony Park Pleasure Driving Ponies Four years old or Under found in HK124.3.
UPHA Committee Re-population
We are in the process of reviewing committees and making new appointments. If you are interested in volunteering to serve on a UPHA committee please contact UPHA President, Cindy Mugnier or UPHA Executive Director, Jennifer Mellenkamp. UPHA membership is required.
Ribbons of Service Meet & Greet
The Ribbons of Service Meet & Greet was held via Zoom Thursday evening during the UPHA Virtual Conference. This year’s Meet and Greet was with Alayna Applegate. The Youth were able to pick Alayna’s brain asking things like what she thinks about before she hits the ring, to who is her favorite lesson horse and what it has taught her. It was a fun night for everyone!
Educational Webinar
Last week, UPHA launched LET’S TALK ABOUT THAT – an interactive educational webinar series presenting ideas and topics in a simple and conversational manner. For its first segment, UPHA asked Equidae Insurance to discuss hot topics facing our UPHA members today. “Think You’re Covered? Let’s Talk About That” broadcast live on Thursday, January 14, 2021 to appreciative UPHA members. The webinar is available on demand to current UPHA members on our website through our member portal found https://uphai.memberclicks.net/login#/login.
Mark Your Calendars! 2022 UPHA National Conference
We are pleased to announce, that the 2022 UPHA National Conference will take place in Orlando, Florida, January 4-8, 2022, at the magnificent Renaissance Orlando at Sea World. We look forward to a forward thinking agenda and great networking opportunities for all who attend.