Dear Fellow NCHA Directors and Members,

 I’m asking for your leadership and assistance in helping us meet our goal for participation with the new NCHA membership survey. This survey, conducted by Decision Analyst, Inc., will provide us as Directors extremely valuable information as we work together to develop membership programs and services. It also assists our Association greatly as we work to attract and retain sponsorship support that is so important to what we can do for our members.

 At present, there are still a significant number of National Directors who have not yet completed the survey. I’m asking you to take the time to log on now and complete the survey which will close February 29. I’d  love to be able to tell our members we had 100% participation from the 216 National Directors on this important effort.

 The survey is organized into eight chapters.  It covers your involvement with horses; the programs, events and member services offered by NCHA and NCHA Affiliates; it asks about your purchasing habits and brand preferences and collects important demographic data.  The information we gather will help us produce a composite profile of our membership. With that profile we can make convincing, professional sponsorship presentations to a wider variety of businesses to support NCHA.

 Marketers are becoming more and more judicious about how they invest their advertising and sponsorship dollars and it’s vital that we be able to respond with the information they need to make final decisions on their investments.  Your input also will help us do an even better job of responding to your specific interests.  Please follow this link to the survey, and provide your answers to the questionnaire now.  It will take you about 30-45 minutes to complete – but it’s a very important investment of your time.

 For security reasons, you’ll need to have your NCHA membership number available to begin the survey.  Your survey responses are completely confidential. Individual surveys will not be shared with the NCHA, its board members or staff. The NCHA will only be supplied with composite answers from all surveys completed.

 We greatly appreciate your involvement and support of the NCHA and hope you’ll encourage others to complete the survey too. In fact, it would be ideal if you’d be in touch with the members in your District personally to encourage each of them to complete the survey.   You can click here to begin the survey now.  If you can’t finish it in one setting, get to the end of a chapter and submit the information you’ve completed to that point.  You can then log back in later and it will take you to the exact place where you stopped.

 Thank you.  Please let us know whenever we can be of service.

 Sincerely,

 Keith Deaville
NCHA President

It’s time to start planning for the new season.  The MCHA Board of Directors met on Jan.  14th and here are a few of the highlights from the meeting.  The MCHA Year End Show will be help on Sept. 15-16 (Sat. & Sun.), 2012 with the location to be determined.  The MCHA Year End Banquet/General Membership Meeting & Board Meeting is scheduled for Jan. 12, 2012, location pending.

The MCHA will be having a Never Won A Buckle (NWAB) class and two-handed class in Lewistown and Year End Show.  Other shows may have these classes but it will be up to the individual producers.   There will not be Year End awards or finals in these two classes.

Following is the new MCHA Class Order for 2012:       

1)  Open,   2)  Non-Pro,   3)  50 Am,   4)  2000 LR,   5)  10 Nov. Horse,  6)  15 Nov/Non-Pro,   7)  Youth (JR & SR),   8)  Derby Open,    9)  35 Non-Pro,   10)  Derby Non-Pro,   11)  15 Am., 12)  3 Nov. Horse,  13)  5 Nov/Non-Pro,   14)  1000 Nov. Horse,   15)  1000 Am.,  16)  800 Rider.  NWAB and two handed classes will be held at end of days if offered.

The MCHA will be returning to the Wrangler as our Official Publication, and we will be working again with Big Sky Internet Design to update our website.  Stay tuned in for a fun packed 2012 show season!

See ”Events” for the Tentative 2012 MCHA Show Schedule. 

Get your 2012 MCHA Membership!  Send your membership in now so you don’t have to worry about it at the first show!  Remember, both horse owner and rider must be paid MCHA members prior to showing for earnings in any class including youth to count towards Year-End standings and awards.

Congratulations to Montana Cutting Horse Association members who graced the NCHA Top 15 in the World Standings for 2011!   The NCHA’s Top 15 in each class were honored at the “World Finals Party” on December 3 in Fort Worth, TX during the NCHA Futurity event.  MCHA would like to recognize Gayle Weber riding Simply Be Smart on her 11^th place finish in the $15 Amateur; Judy Littke owner of PT Smart and ridden by Tom Campbell on their 11^th place showing in the $10 Novice Horse; and Jaelyn Sleeman aboard This Isa Stray Cat on their 12^th place finish in the $5 Novice Non-Pro.  CONGRATULATIONS!

The National Cutting Horse Association has announced that one of the organization’s premier events, the NCHA Western National Championships, will be held in Reno, Nevada in 2012. Dates for the show are April 28 – May 8, 2012.The Western National Championships feature each of the 12 NCHA-approved weekend show classes, and offers a total of $200,000 in added money. The Western Championships typically bring approximately 1,000 entries, with participants coming from the entire Western and Central United States and Canada. The show was previously conducted in Ogden, Utah and is moving for the first time since its inception in 1995.

The MCHA mourns the passing of long-time member John Cantrell of Corvallis, MT who passed away on December 5, 2011.  Our sympathy also goes out to Lee Wirthlin on the recent passing of her father and to Robert Borick on the loss of his father.   

The MCHA Officers and Directors with be having their 2012 Planning Meeting, which is now set for January 14^th in Bozeman.  If you have items you would like discussed or included on the agenda, please contact MCHA Secretary, Kelly Heiken at 406-591-3393

                                             MCHA 2011

    Open Winners

Photo L-R : Robert Borick presenting to Will Nuttall, Tom Campbell, Cody Lee accepting for Russ Miller and owner James Bower

1st Place – Stylish Raz A Taz, riden by Will Nuttall, owner Switchback Cutting Horses LLC

2nd Place – Olenas Dually Colorme, riden by Tom Campbell, owner Mark Hendrickson

3rd Place – Playin In Jewels, riden by Russ Miller, owner GCH Land & Cattle

4th Place – Decidedlys Kitten, riden by John Dublin, owner James Bower

    MCHA 2011

        Non-Pro

Photo L-R:  Fallon Nuttall, Betsy Talermo, Robert Borick, and Mark Hendrickson

1st Place – Fallon Nuttall riding Shortys Royal Blue

2nd Place – Betsy Talermo riding Somebodys Smart Talk

3rd Place – Robert Borick riding Reys Highlight

4th Place – Mark Hendrickson riding Olenas Dually Colorme

     MCHA 2011

  $50, 000 Amateur

Photo L-R:  Theresa Nelson presenting to Cody Lee, Audrey O’Keefe, and Dorothy Seymour

1st Place – Cody Lee riding Remanitas Alegria

2nd Place – Dorothy Seymour riding Bandito B Back

3rd Place – Gina Macdonald riding Pretty Steady Lena

4th Place – Audrey O’Keefe riding Lena Sett A Smoke

MCHA 2011

$35,000 Non Pro

 1st Place – Gayle Weber riding Simply Be Smart

2nd Place – Audrey O’Keefe riding Lena Sett A Smoke

3rd Place – Debra Weyer riding Spoonikiss

4th Place – Sara Chamberlin riding Smoke N Tenina

         MCHA 2011

   $15,000 Amateur

Photo L-R:  Audrey O’Keefe accepting for       daughter Sara Chamberlin-Pahlke, Gayle Weber  and Tim Johnson.

1st Place – Gayle Weber riding Simply Be Smart

2nd Place – Sara Chamberlin-Pahlke riding Smoke N Tenina

3rd Place – Tim Johnson riding Stylishs Good Son

4th Place – Kathy Greenwell riding Camiseta Rose

        MCHA 2011

  $10,000 Nov Horse

Photo L-R:  Todd Banner presenting to Tom Campbell, Fallon Nuttall accepting for Will Nuttall, and John L. Dublin.

1st Place – PT Spart, riden by Tom Campbell, owner Judy Littke

2nd Place – Kuzma, riden by John L. Dublin, owner John Bostedt

3rd Place – Cats Stylish Diva, riden by Will Nuttall, owner Switchback Cutting Horses LLC

4th Place – Sues So Smart, riden by Brian Anderson, owner Frank Vandersloot

        MCHA 2011

  $3,000 Nov Horse

Photo L-R:  Jann Parker, Tim Stryker,  Tom Campbell and Fallon Nuttall accepting for Will Nuttall.

1st Place – Dynamite High Brow, riden by Will Nuttall, owner Jann Parker.

2nd Place – Smoonful High Brow, riden by Tim Stryker, owner Bill Long.

3rd Place – Miss Cd Taz, riden by Tom Campbell, owner Twin Sugars LLC.

4th Place – Stylish Raz A Taz, riden by Will Nuttall, owner Switchback Cutting Horses LLC.

 MCHA 2011 $15,000

    N.H./Non Pro

Photo L-R:  Michelle VanDyke presenting to Jann Parker, Robert Borick, Betsy Talermo and James Bower.

1st Place – Jann Parker riding Smart N Promising

2nd Place – Betsy Talermo riding Somebodys Smart Talk

3rd Place – Robert Borick riding Star Rey Leno

4th Place – James Bower riding Decidedlys Kitten

MCHA 2011 $2,000 Rider

1st Place – Elaine Phipps riding Aftersunsetmoonrise

2nd Place – Amy Dellera riding Pd Smart Starlight

3rd Place – Leslie Bellwood riding Draw Ya Gun

4th Place – Emily Grasser riding Badgers Danny Dry

    MCHA 2011

     Youth

Photo L-R:  Fallon Nuttal presenting to Todd Banner accepting for Macall Banner, John L. Dublin accepting for Riley Dublin, and Kate Banner accepting for Mackenzie Banner.

Senior Youth

1st Place – Macall Banner with 25 points.

2nd Place – Riley Dublin with 19.5 points.

3rd Place – Mackenzie Banner with 15 points.

4th Place – Leslie Bellwood with 13 points.

Junior Youth

1st Place – Aislynn Hamann with 5 points.

MCHA 2011 $800 Rider

1st Place – Emily Grasser riding Badgers Danny Dry

2nd Place – Kari Risa riding GCR Bar Deck Leo

3rd Place – Rosaleen Walsh riding Shorty Rey Jay

   MCHA 2011

 $1,000 Nov. Horse

Photo:  L-R:  Tom Campbell, John L. Dublin, John Bostedt, and Donald Weeding.

1st Place – Peppys Smooth Cat, riden by Tom Campbell, owner Allen Munger.

2nd Place – Instant Little Queen, riden by Tom Campbell, owner Donald Weeding.

3rd Place – Royal Quizote Kat, riden by John L. Dublin, owner John Bostedt.

4th Place – Marys Nitro Cutter, riden by John L. Dublin, owner James Bower.

  MCHA 2011 $5,000

Nov Horse/Non-Pro

Photo L-R:  Michelle Morris presenting to Jaelyn Sleeman, Michelle Vaqn Dyke, Jann Parker, and Holly Bliss.

1st Place – Jaelyn Sleeman riding this Isa Stray Cat.

2nd Place – Holly Bliss riding Lotsazuick.

3rd Place – Michelle Van Dyke riding Rey Too Stylish.

4th Place – Jann Parker riding Dynamite High Brow.

MCHA 2011 $1,000 Amateur

1st Place – Chalyse Edgar-Debenedetti riding Rey Linda Lena

MCHA 2011 Open Futurity

1st Place – Fallon Nuttall riding CD Royal Desire

MCHA 2011 Open Derby

1st Place – Fletch My CD, riden by Will Nuttall, owner Switchback Cutting Horses LLC.

2nd Place – Instant Little Queen, riden by Tom Campbell, owner Donald Weeding.

3rd Place – Aristo My Ash, riden by Will Nuttall, owner Switchback Cutting Horses LLC.

4th Place – Cat Olena 007, riden by Brian Anderson, owner Frank Vandersloot.

MCHA 2011 Non-Pro Derby

1st Place – Michelle VanDyke riding Rey Too Stylish.

December 2011

MCHA Newsletter

With this newsletter, I am closing out my two year term as the MCHA President and it has to be said that although it did not always go smoothly, it always went forward toward growth and reward.  It has been a great honor to work with this association and its many members—THANK YOU.  That being said it gives me great pleasure to hand off the reins to two great guys:  Will Nuttall—President and Tom Campbell—Vice President.  Not only are these two individuals highly respected and extremely talented, but they have proven countless times these past two years what true leaders they are.  Along with the addition of the following directors:  Gayle Weber, Michelle VanDyke, Theresa Nelson and Tim Stryker and Youth Directors, Macall Banner and Kellee Hersrud,  to the already in place directors:  Audrey O’Keefe, Gene Morris and John L Dublin our Association has a very strong, experienced and balanced board for 2012.  I would also like to thank the outgoing members of our board whom have done a terrific job in leading and guiding this association the last two years:  Suzanne Nellen, Cody Lee, Bambi Gress and youth director MacKenzie Banner—thank you guys for a job well done.

Congratulations go out to the following MCHA members for ending the 2011 year with “Top 15 World Finalist” honors:  10,000 Novice Horse 11^th -Tom Campbell aboard Judy Littke’s PT Smart, 5,000 Novice Non Pro 12^th – Jaelyn Sleeman and This Isa Stray Cat, and 15,000 Amateur 11^th – Gayle Weber and Simply Be Smart.  Making the Top 15 is indeed a major accomplishment, and the invested time and efforts are much admired.  MCHA is very proud to extend a well deserved Congratulation on a job well done!!

Merry Christmas, Happy New Year and May all of us have a blessed and joyous Holiday season. 

Theresa Nelson

MCHA President

November 2011

MCHA Newsletter

November brings to close one of the most beautiful fall seasons Montana has experienced in years, as well as marks the end of our 2011 NCHA cutting year.  For the MCHA members still competing for those prestigious NCHA Top 15 World Buckles—You Go Guys & Good Luck—MCHA is proudly behind each and every one of you!!

The same can be said for all our MCHA members; trainers, non pros, amateurs and owners, that are headed to Fort Worth this month—You Go Guys & Good Luck—MCHA is proudly behind each and every one of you!!

A quick recap on our year end show:  show income of $1500 and $6000 raised from our auction==HUGE SUCCESS FOR MCHA!!!!  Thank You to all MCHA members and supporters!

The dedication and “can do” attitude of our membership was once again proven during the Northern International Livestock Exhibition held in Billings this past month.  After discussion and ideas were presented at the September General Membership Meeting on how to grow and enhance our sport and association, a Cutting Exhibition was put together and brought to the NILE courtesy of the Montana Cutting Horse Association. Karla Camp summed up this demonstration very well:  “We want to show the amazing instinct and ability of these horses to people unfamiliar with cutting.”  MCHA also had a booth inside the Western Expo during the NILE with the idea of letting people know that the sport of cutting caters to professionals and beginners alike, offering multiple divisions from the competitive “open” division to the newcomers’ “amateur division.  Both the booth and the exhibition held before the rodeo were a great resource for those who wanted to learn more about cutting and how to get involved in the sport, as well as our association.  A huge THANK YOU goes out to the following people whom participated in and put this event together:  Bill & Jann Parker, Will, Krista & Fallon Nuttall, Tim Johnson, Karla Camp, Tim Stryker and Theresa Nelson.

Happy Thanksgiving to everyone!

Theresa Nelson

MCHA President

MCHA GENERAL MEMBERSHIP MEETING

September 16, 2011 Corvallis, MT

Sapphire Event Center

The MCHA General Membership Meeting was called to order at 6:30pm at the Sapphire Event Center by president, Theresa Nelson.  There were 25 members present along with Vice President Will Nuttall, and Directors Tom Campbell, John L. Dublin, Cody Lee, Gene Morris, Audrey O’Keefe and Secretary/Treasurer Kelly Heiken.    

 Reviewed:

The MCHA Financial Statement dated September 14, 2011 was distributed.  The membership reviewed the Financial Statement.  There was a correction from 2011 NCHA Days – Judge should read 2011 NCHA Days – Announcer.  This was paid to book the announcer before NCHA days for 2011 was cancelled.  It will count as a credit towards next year’s NCHA Days, Will Nuttall made a motion to approve the Financial Statement with the above mentioned correction, Tom Campbell second the motion.  All present were in favor and the Financial Statement was approved. 

 The minutes from the August 19th, 2011 Board meeting have previously been approved by the board.  There were copies available for members to review at the meeting.  Theresa Nelson noted the minutes are also available on the MCHA website for members to read. 

Reports:

Jann Parker and John L Dublin gave an overall NCHA National Directors report.  Jann stated that you can look at the NCHA website or in the Chatter for what recommendations were made.  The membership asked what is happening with the Western Nationals in Ogden.  John L. Dublin discussed the NCHA is still looking into their options of where they can hold the Western Nationals.  There has been much discussion of possibly moving it from Ogden, however, there is still a 2 year contract in place.  Jann stated there has been a proposal submitted by Idaho to host the Western Nationals.  It was very nicely done and she was encouraged they are looking at all options.  Jann stated that everyone she talked with wants to move to ID, it is a nice facility and has a great staff to put on the event. 

 John L. Dublin touched on a few other topics discussed at the NCHA Convention including a change to the pay out, the World Finals, and medication used on your horses.  If you want more information on items discussed at the convention please call and visit with either Jann Parker or John L. Dublin. 

Old or Unfinished Business:

Theresa Nelson stated the membership will be voting on the Horse of the Year at the banquet on Saturday night as you come in, due to the close race in one class.  The winner of the Non-Pro/Amateur Classes will be listed for the membership to vote on. 

 New Business:

Kelly Heiken stated we will be running an Early Bird membership again this year.  The early membership will cost $45 and you can pay now at the show or send it to Kelly until January 31, 2012.  After that, the membership will go back to the $50 fee.  Kelly stated it helped last year to have so many people sign up early.  This made it easier for riders to not forget when show season begins.  Remember both horse owner and rider must be MCHA members for it to count towards year end awards.    

Theresa Nelson discussed the Year End Banquet to be held Saturday night at the Skalkaho Lodge Steakhouse out of Hamilton. The Banquet will start at 7:00pm. 

 Saturdays Year End show will have the cattle in the arena at 7:30am and start cutting at 8:00am.  Theresa stated Audrey O’Keefe and Gayle Weber have done a great job getting the awards for this year.  Thank you to both of them for their efforts! 

 Audrey told the membership about the awards as follows, 1^st place to receive buckles, 2^nd place to receive a flank strap buckle, 3^rd place to receive horse sheets, and 4^th place to receive a bridle rack.  This year there is also the new Kim Asay Memorial award which is a beautiful horse head sculpture. 

Theresa Nelson thanked Michelle Van Dyke for being in charge of this year’s auction.  This is the only fundraiser that the MCHA does throughout the year.  There were several nice items up for bid including a Savage 17 Riffle donated by Ellie Rome, a Marilyn Mason Artwork from her Cowgirl series donated by Audrey O’Keefe, along with much more.  There will be silent auction items to bid on tomorrow at the show.  Some of the silent bid items will go to live auction, with the last written bid as the opening live auction bid.   

Theresa stated there is another Ray Church Cooler to give away at tomorrow nights banquet.  Every person who has entered a class at the year end show will get their name put in the pot for this drawing.    But remember you must be present at the banquet to win.  Theresa encouraged everyone to attend and have a good time. 

 Next on the agenda, Theresa discussed last year the Board decided to hire Jann Parker as the PR/Promotions person.  During this last year the website was redesigned.  Theresa asked the membership their thoughts about the website.  Several of the members voiced they did not like the new website as well as before.  They felt it was not as user friendly and a little harder to navigate to where they wanted. 

Last year the board also decided to change from the Wrangler as our official Publication and go back to the Cascade Horseman.  Kelly Heiken asked the members if they were receiving their copies of the Cascade Horseman.  Only about 7 members at the meeting said they received it regularly.  Kelly stated there has been some trouble with getting it delivered.  John L. Dublin voiced that he has gone thought the Cascade Horseman front to back and we are the only Montana affiliation in it.  He felt we should look at going back to the Wrangler.  Theresa Nelson asked the members their thoughts regarding facebook and emails sent from the MCHA.  Most members at the meeting said they liked the facebook notifications and the emails to keep them informed.  Theresa Nelson noted the Board will review and address these issues at the January meeting. 

Theresa Nelson asked the membership their thoughts on how to promote and help the MCHA grow.  There was some discussion in regards to hosting club cuttings to promote interest.  Ty Cole from Dillon brought up he would like to see some of the trainers host a cutting expo of some type.  His thoughts were to let people who might be interested get on an older trained cutting horse and they would maybe become more involved in cutting.  Ty would like to see maybe 3 locations that would host these events such as Billings, Bozeman, and Dillon.  He stated this would allow the community to see what we are doing.  They could come out and work a cow or work a flag.  He would like to see the MCHA spearhead this type of event and promote it. 

Jann and Bill Parker also spoke about ways to promote the MCHA.  Jann discussed she has seen some other states move the $2,000 Limited Rider up in the day, such as the 4^th class, this helped draw people who didn’t have to wait all day and got to cut on fresh cattle.  She mentioned that we need to let riders know they don’t have to own the horse in the $2000 LR, or $800 rider class. 

John L. Dublin brought up that we could do more publicity for our cuttings.  To call the papers and the news stations and let them know there is a cutting going on.  He suggested we could do big flyers and put up around the towns.  The membership discussed it was important to get the community involved, and get their support.  It was discussed that that with more advertising we might be able to get more spectators, who may be interested in getting more involved in cutting. 

Theresa Nelson read the list of Corporate Sponsors for the 2011 Season.  They were for the Open: Montana Ranch of Bigfork LLC – Sandy and David Sabey, Non-Pro: First Class Outdoors – Mike Willey, $50,000 Amateur: Nelson Ranch, $35,000 Non-Pro: Twin Sugars LLC and Suzanne Nellen Attorney at Law, $10,000 Flying Diamond Cutting Horses – Randy & Vicky Lynn, $3,000 Novice Horse – Chipotle Cat owned by Switchback Cutting Horses LLC, $15,000 Amateur: Copper Spring Ranch LLC, $15,000 Novice Horse/Non-Pro:  Prudential Montana Real Estate – Michelle Van Dyke Broker, $2,000 Limited Rider:  Billings Livestock Commission Horse Sales, Senior Youth:  Switchback Cutting Horses LLC, Junior Youth: Johnson Saddlery – John & Dorothy Seymour, $800 Rider:  Big Sky Internet Design – Tom & Carrie Bruch, $1,000 Novice Horse: GFK Trailer Sales – Paul Lambert, $5,000 Novice Horse/Non-Pro: Broken Jaw Ranch – Gene & Michelle Morris, $1,000 Amateur: Keyser Creek Arena – Ralph Young & Melissa Fraze, Derby Open: Big Sky Futurity & Aged Event – Will Nuttall & Randy Holman, and Derby Non-Pro: Flawless Skin Care LLC – Bambi Gress.  Theresa thanked our sponsors and stated the MCHA is grateful to have them.  The sponsors help purchase the awards for these classes.  She asked the membership to thank our sponsors if they see them.

Theresa stated there are four people leaving the Board this year.  She thanked Tom Campbell, Bambi Gress, Cody Lee and Suzanne Nellen for their time and service.  Theresa reported the election results.  She stated the votes were counted by Betty Lou Weeding and her election team, the President elected is Will Nuttall, Vice President is Tom Campbell.  The new board members are Gayle Weber, Michelle Van Dyke, Tim Stryker, and Theresa Nelson.  Congratulations to these people.    

Betty Lou Weeding brought up that there will be 3 Board Members up for election next year.  She stated that we may want to look at trying to even out the number of people up for election each year.  Theresa Nelson noted this, and reported that Suzanne Nellen has agreed to work on some changes and look into the language and rules of the elections.  After her review we may need to look at having another general membership meeting at the first show of the year to vote on any changes.

Theresa asked if there were any Show Producers who wish to put on cuttings in the months of February, March, or April to please submit their information as soon as possible for the Board to review. 

There being no other new business to discuss, John L. Dublin made a motion to adjourn the meeting, Tom Campbell second, and the meeting was adjourned at 7:30pm.

Submitted by Kelly Heiken

MCHA, Secretary/Treasurer

October 2011

MCHA Newsletter

The 2011 MCHA season came to a close with our Year End Show and Awards Banquet held in Corvallis.  The association came out full force to support the show, as well as all the festivities, and what a party it was!!  We had the chance to cut on good cattle, good ground and then relax and socialize with good friends at our MCHA Board hosted social before the general membership meeting.  The minutes of the general membership meeting will be posted, so be sure to check them out.  Jann Parker and John L Dublin gave an overall NCHA National Directors report which included news on Western Nationals as well as the restart of the NCHA World Finals starting in 2012.  The membership meeting also provided a forum for the membership to share thoughts and ideas on how to promote and grow MCHA.  The incoming new 2012 Officers and Directors were also announced at the meeting:  Congrat’s go out to the following incoming members—President-Will Nuttall, Vice President-Tom Campbell and Directors-Theresa Nelson, Tim Stryker, Michelle VanDyke and Gayle Weber.  Our 2012 Youth Directors are McCall Banner and Kellee Hersrud.

The awards banquet, held at the Skalkaho Lodge & Steakhouse, had great food and wonderful awards and was a very, very nice finale to our cutting season.  Special congratulations go out to Anne Indreland, Sr. Youth Rookie of the Year, as well as Aislynn Hamann, Jr. Youth Rookie of the Year.  Emily Grasser earned the MCHA 2011 Rookie of the year and Theresa Nelson was awarded the Most Inspirational.  Donald Weeding was the proud recipient of the Kim Asay Memorial award and congrat’s go out to Stylish Raz A Tazz and Will Nuttall with Switchback Cutting Horses for the Open Horse of the Year, as well as Remanitas Alegria and Cody Lee voted the 2011 NP Horse of the Year.  Cody Lee was also the winner of the 2011 MCHA NP Top Money Earner.   The evening was topped off with our annual benefit auction.  This is the one and only fund raiser our association does and once again it was a great success. 

I cannot thank enough the individuals whom stepped forward and went the extra mile to ensure our Year End Show & Banquet were a success:  Will Nuttall, Donald Weeding, Betty Lou Weeding, Ty Cole, Cody Lee, Kelly Heiken, Shaun Pichler, Audrey O’Keefe, Gayle Weber, Michelle VanDyke, Sherry Lee, Walt & Vickie Stewart and John & Dorothy Seymour—thanks a million guys!  But mostly I would like to extend a whole hearted Congrat’s and Thank You to the member’s of this association for making it such a successful and top notch organization.  My hat is off to each and every one of you.

Theresa Nelson

MCHA President

      September 2011

      MCHA Newsletter

It’s that time again for MCHA to celebrate the close of our 2011 cutting season with our Year End Show and Banquet, this year on the books for September 16th and 17^th at the Sapphire Event Center in Corvallis.  Two full days of cutting-fresh cattle throughout is our goal-and Friday night we will have our annual Board Hosted MCHA social plus the general membership meeting.  If possible, depending on how tight the class races are at that point, we will have the vote for our Amateur/NonPro Horse of the Year.  The Am/NP Horse of the Year will be voted on at the yearend show, consisting of each horse that is ridden to the yearend championship of each Am/NP class, except for the 2000 LR and the 800 Rider.  If races come down to the last day of cutting, then the vote will be taken at the beginning of the Year End Banquet.  The Open/Novice Horse of the Year will be determined on money won throughout the year.

 Saturday is starting early, 7am, will a full slate of classes to be followed by the MCHA Year End Awards Banquet, planned to be at the Skalkaho Lodge Steakhouse in Hamilton.  A lot of hard work and planning has gone into putting on another fabulous Year End Celebration with great food, awards and friends!

 Don’t forget our major fund raising event for MCHA to be held during the Year End show, which is our auction.  Michelle Van Dyke and I will be putting the auction together so please contact either of us with your donations.

 This promises to be another great close to yet another fabulous year of cutting in Montana, so let’s all come together and celebrate it!  Hope to see you all there.

 Theresa Nelson

MCHA President

         MINUTES OF MCHA DIRECTOR’S MEETING

         Held at Sapphire Event Center, Corvallis, MT    August 19, 2011                     

The Director’s Meeting was called to order by President, Theresa Nelson at the Sapphire Event Center office on August 19, 2011 at 6:00pm.   Board members present were Vice President Will Nuttall, Tom Campbell, John L. Dublin, Cody Lee, Suzanne Nellen, and Audrey O’Keefe.  Gene Morris was available by phone.  Also present was MCHA members Donald & Betty Lou Weeding, WCHA Rep. Muffy Rodgers, and secretary/treasurer Kelly Heiken on speaker phone.  President, Theresa Nelson, stated there was a quorum at the meeting.

Reviewed:

The board reviewed the minutest from the June 12, 2011 meeting held in Bozeman, MT.  The board approved the minutes as presented.  The board reviewed the minutes from the July 29, 2011 meeting held in Columbus, MT.  The board approved the minutes as presented.  The board reviewed the MCHA Financial Statement dated 08/17/2011.  The board approved the Financial Statement as presented.

Old or Unfinished Business: 

Audrey O’Keefe gave an update on Year End Show Awards.  She has ordered most of the awards.  The list of awards is 1^st place – Buckles, 2^nd place – Flank Strap Buckles, 3^rd place – Halter Racks, 4^th place – Nylon Horse Sheets.  The sheets have been sent out to be embroidered with the MCHA logo.  There will also be a pair of Kerry Kelly spurs and a set of chaps to give away.  These will replace the saddles in the class winner’s giveaway.  There is one NCHA trophy on its way and Theresa Nelson has ordered a Ray Church Cooler. 

The board discussed the Novice/Open Horse of the Year award will be the same as last year and is based on money earned.  Also the same as last year a Non-Pro/Amateur Horse of the Year award, which will be voted on at the at the Year End Show.  For that award the names of the class winners from the Non-Pro/Amateur will go on the list.

Will Nuttall brought up the question of moving the Year End Show up one week to Sept. 16-17.  He stated with the Wyoming CHA canceling their show, it now made since to see if we could change our show date.  Will stated we might be able to pick up some of the entries of people who planned to attend that show.  The board discussed needing to contact the NCHA first to see if they would allow the date change, then check on the availability of the facility.  It would take several people checking on all the changes including the cattle, Judge, show secretary, video, awards, ect.  Will Nuttall made a motion if the NCHA approved the date change and the facility was available to go forward with moving the Year End Show to September 16-17, 2011. Tom Campbell second the motion.  All board members were in favor and the motion passed unanimously.

Theresa Nelson gave an update on the Year End Show banquet.  She has checked into the Victor Steak House, however they do have a large sir charge to hold the event.  The Board discussed to option of having it at a facility that would allow us to have it catered.  Theresa will continue working on options and line up a facility that is suitable.  Michelle Morris, her mother, and Vicky Stewart have agreed to help with the banquet.

Theresa Nelson stated she has talked with Michelle Van Dyke, and she has agreed to help with the fund raiser/auction.  We need to work on getting other people to help her.  If there is anyone interested please talk to Michelle or Theresa.

The board discussed having a Kim Asay Memorial at the Year End Show.  It was discussed if it would be better to have a fund raiser with the money going to the family, or possibly do something else.  The board went over different ideas from setting up a display with a bucket, to some kind of an auction like “Buy a Trainer for a Day”.  Another idea presented was to set up a Kim Asay Memorial Award for the next 4 to 5 years.  This award would be presented to the member who best represented good sportsmanship, hard work, and determination in honor of Kim.  After much discussion Tom Campbell made a motion to establish the Kim Asay Memorial Award.  Will Nuttall second the motion.  All board members were in favor and the motion passed unanimously. 

Kelly Heiken stated she has been in contact with Tim Barry from Bryon, Illinois, and he has agreed to be the Judge for the Year End Show.  If we are able to change the show date, she will contact him on Monday to make sure he will be available on September 16-17. 

Theresa Nelson and Will Nuttall need to finalize the details of the Year End Show with the Sapphire Event Center, John Stefka, on the facility rental. They plan to talk to him this weekend. 

Next on the agenda was the Nomination Committee report.  Betty Lou Weeding spoke to the board in regards to the President and Vice President upcoming elections.  She asked to board to keep those 2 officer elections on the same year.  She stated when the election rules were reviewed, it was set up in the hope that after learning the ropes the Vice President would then run for the President position.  She noted it does not state in the MCHA Constitution the Vice President automatically becomes President like in the NCHA rules.  The board discussed the difficulty this year getting people to run.   John L. Dublin discussed the MCHA Constitution Article IV, Section 3 states:  The directors shall be elected for a two (2) year term.  Once having served a full two (2) year term a person is not eligible to run for Director for one (1) year but may run for another position.   The board discussed this rule.  It was noted any By-Laws changes must be presented at an Annual Meeting.  To do this, we would need to start working on it now to present at a later time.  Tom Campbell made a motion to have Suzanne Nellen draft a Constitution change to present to the membership changing the wording “a board member may run after serving a two (2) year term, however, they would have to run as a write in on the ballet”.  Theresa Nelson second the motion.  All board members were in favor and the motion passed unanimously.  Suzanne Nellen agreed to work on the proper language for this amendment.

Betty Lou Weeding reported she spoke with several members at the Kalispell show and here is the list of members in good standing that were interested in running for a director position.  Their names are Eli Auger,  Todd Banner, Karla Camp, Jonathan Foote, Tim Stryker, Michelle Van Dyke, Gayle Weber, and Dave Weyer.  After more discussion Will Nuttall agreed to run for MCHA President, and Tom Campbell agreed to run for MCHA Vice President.  The Directors will talk to our Youth members about who is interested in that position.

Theresa Nelson asked the board members to sign a Thank You card that will be sent to the Copper Spring Ranch with a check returning their sponsorship money for NCHA Days.  The board members stated they appreciated CSR for wanting to be a sponsor this year.

New Business:

There was no new business to review.

 Theresa Nelson noted there will be a General Membership meeting Friday night, September 16, 2011, at the end of the show.  All members are welcome and encouraged to attend.

 There being no other new business, the meeting was adjourned at 7:30pm.

 Note:  The NCHA approved to move the MCHA Year End Show up one week to Friday September 16, and Saturday September 17, 2011.  The Sapphire Event Center was available. The board will proceed with all other arrangements to move the show to this date.

MCHA Newsletter

 July was the perfect time for MCHA to kick its show season back into high gear!  What a great month for MCHA members to get back into the show pen and show their horses; with numerous shows dates and two different venues, everyone had ample opportunity to get back in the saddle. July was also the month for  two Angela Bauer Youth Scholarship cuttings.  As of print time-Congratulations go out to the following scholarship winners:  Riley Dublin, Leslie Bellwood, McCall Banner, Mackenzie Banner, and Aislynn Hamann-Way to go guys!    Results are posted for both the Snowy Mountain Summer Spectacular and the Keyser Creek Cutting shows.  And WOW, from “sombrero cutting to dog races”-July certainly had it all!

August promises to keep MCHA members rockin’ n rollin’ with three NCHA weekend cuttings, paired with great aged events to kick off the fall aged event season.  The Big Sky Aged Event starts off the month, with a fun, high powered week full of cutting at the Majestic Valley Arena in Kalispell, August 6^th-13^th.  With just a few days rest, the show moves to Corvallis and the Sapphire Event Center for the Bitterroot Valley Cutting, August 20-21^st.  Which may be a new location, but not a new show since the BVC is historically and traditionally branded in all our MCHA bleedin’ hearts!  The month finishes in Henry’s Lake, Idaho with the Meadow Vue Ranch LAE & Cutting, running August 25^th -28^th.  This is the 25+ year for the Meadow Vue Ranch Cutting and Dennis Moedl and his crew put on one of the best down-home, ranch-style cuttings out there. I’m gonna keep on saying it—The MVR show is as close to a “true ranch” cutting  as you are gonna find these days—campfires, cattle being trailed in, cowboy coffee, the great outdoors and all the weather mother nature can throw at us!! 

 No doubt about it:  MCHA members are fortunate to have numerous opportunities to cut in truly beautiful, unique and scenic venues all show season long.  We would all like to say:  Thank You MCHA Producers!!

Reminder to the membership, it is that time again—the nomination committee consisting of Cody Lee, Suzanne Nellen, Donald Weeding and myself are waiting for your nominations for President, Vice President and the four MCHA board member seats that will be coming up this year.  Please take the time to contact these guys and share your ideas on the members you would like to see sitting on and representing you on the 2012 MCHA board.  After having the privilege to serve on this board for the past 4+ years, the one thing I can say without a doubt is this:  the members of this association are 100% behind and committed to MCHA and the betterment and growth of the sport of cutting in Montana, as well as everywhere.  Not only does that pride and dedication make the Board’s job easier, but also makes it more rewarding to do.  This is your association, which has plenty capable and talented individuals to fill these seats. So let us hear from you!

Lastly for all and sadly for most, September marks the end of our MCHA cutting season.  We head to the Wyoming CHA Year End Show September 3&4^th in Casper, WY, to be followed by the MCHA Year End Show and Banquet September 23^rd and 24^{th in} Corvallis, MT.  Our year end show promises to be a great finish to a truly awesome year and we will keep you posted on the “where and what” details of the show as they come together.  See you there!

Theresa Nelson

MCHA President

MINUTES OF MCHA DIRECTOR’S MEETING

 The Director’s Meeting was called to order by President, Theresa Nelson at the Keyser Creek Arena on July 29, 2011 at 6:16pm.   Board members present were Will Nuttall, Tom Campbell, John L. Dublin, Cody Lee, Suzanne Nellen, Audrey O’Keefe.  Bambi Gress and Gene Morris were available by phone.   Also present were secretary/treasurer Kelly Heiken and member/National Director Jann Parker.   

Reviewed:  There were no minutes to approve.  The board reviewed the MCHA Financial Statement dated 07/29/2011.  The board approved the Financial Statement. 

Correspondence:  The board received thank you cards from Shauna Paul and the Asay family.

Old or Unfinished Business:  Theresa Nelson received a request from the Wyoming Cutting Horse Association for MCHA approval of their Year End Show.  The board voted by phone and agreed to approve the WCHA Year End show to be held on Sept. 3-4, at Casper, WY. 

The board discussed the upcoming MCHA Year End Show.  With it being a shorter show season this year the board discussed they may have to look at cutting back a little on year end awards.  The board discussed several options.  There are 17 classes that will need awards.  Will Nuttall made a motion to give awards to 4 places in each class for this year.  Cody Lee second the motion.  All board members were in favor and the motion passed unanimously. 

Audrey O’Keefe presented a list of awards she has been working on.    1^st place – Buckles, 2^nd place – Flank Strap Buckles, 3^rd place – Halter Racks, 4^th place – Nylon Horse Sheets. a pair of Chaps, a pair of Spurs. Other awards that need to be considered are Horse of the Year – headstall, Non-Pro Horse of the Year, Non-Pro of the Year and Rookie of the Year. Theresa Nelson made a motion to try and keep the awards budget around $15,000 for this year.  Will Nuttall second the motion.  All board members were in favor and the motion passed unanimously.  Audrey O’Keefe and Theresa Nelson will continue to work on ordering the awards.

Theresa Nelson will work on the Banquet for Saturday night, Sept. 24, 2011.  Michelle Morris and her mother have agreed to help.  Theresa will also ask Shari Lee if she will help.  Theresa has been in contact with the Victor Stake House.  That seems like it will work for what we need.  She will keep working with them and continue planning.

Theresa Nelson asked the board their thoughts on doing a memorial fund raiser for Kim Asay at the Year End Show.  The board was in favor of this.  Theresa asked Kelly Heiken to take charge of this project.    

The board discussed the need to get a Judge for the Year End Show.  Jann Parker stated she has recently spoken to Tim Barry and he would be interested.  The board agreed he would be good to use as the Judge and to go ahead and hire him.

The board discussed the CSR (Copper Spring Ranch) donation for sponsoring NCHA Days.  Since NCHA days was cancelled, and the CSR Show was cancelled the board agreed they need to give the money back.  Theresa Nelson made a motion to send a thank you card with a check for $2,000 CSR.  Tom Campbell second the motion.  All board members were in favor and the motion passed unanimously.

Cody Lee gave an update on the Nomination Committee.  Members on this committee are Cody Lee – Chair, Suzanne Nellen, Gene Morris, Donald Weeding and Theresa Nelson.  Cody has spoken with several people but we are still in need for them to agree to run for an officer position, President of Vice President, and the 4 director positions.  The board discussed the problem with both officer positions changing in the same year.  The board talked about amending this year only to leave the Vice President on for one more year, which will correct the staggering of the officers.  Will Nuttall agreed he would remain on as Vice President.  Suzanne Nellen agreed to review the MCHA by-laws.  Theresa Nelson made a motion to change the by-laws this year only moving 1 officer position (Vice-President) and 1 board member position to next year which will help with the staggering of elections.   Cody Lee second the motion.  All board members were in favor and the motion passed unanimously.  All nominations need to be finalized at the next meeting and turned in to Betty Lou Weeding, MCHA election official.

New Business:  Theresa Nelson has received a proposal from the Idaho Cutting Horse Association in regards to moving the NCHA Western Nationals to Napa Idaho.  The ICHA has put together a nice packet with their proposal and they are asking for the MCHA for support.  The board discussed the pros and cons of each location.  The board felt the ICHA proposal was a good idea, with a good location, a great facility, and very good people to work with.  The board asked Kelly Heiken to send a letter of support to the ICHA.

Jann Parker gave an update regarding NCHA Western Nationals.  They are asking her to get input in regards to this show.  There was discussion about the show in Ogden regarding stalls, parking, and the arenas.  The board again discussed that moving the location to Napa might be the best fix at this time.  Jann will relay this information on to the NCHA. 

The board discussed the upcoming scheduled shows are Big Sky Aged Events Weekend in Kalispell, Bitterroot Valley Cutting in Corvallis, and Meadow Vue Ranch Cutting at Henry’s Lake. 

The board will look to have their next meeting at Corvallis, Friday night before the Bitterroot Valley Cutting at 6 pm. 

Other new business, John L. Dublin gave an update from the NCHA.  They are talking about bringing back the World Finals.  This is back on the table and they are thinking about having it during the 2^nd week of the Futurity Finals.    John L. stated only the top 15 will be allowed to enter.  For more information please talk to John L Dublin.

Jann Parker stated at the NCHA Convention it was evident at any of the meeting they are trying very hard to improve the association.  They are trying to correct any problems and working with the members to do this.

There being no other new business the meeting was adjourned at 7:45pm

MCHA Newsletter

Talk about a difficult and frustrating last couple months for the cutting horse industry.  A heartfelt thank you goes out to the members of this association for riding out the EHV-1 storm with patience and professionalism.  By showing the dedication to stay home and keep vigilant regarding the monitoring of horses in our state, we took a big step forward in safeguarding the sport of cutting in Montana, as well as the horse industry as a whole.  The spread of the virus has reportedly slowed down across the country–So here’s the good news:

Finally, Finally– It’s Finally time to cut!!

MCHA strongly feels that with the virus tapering off, it is vital to our industry to kick our show season back into high gear.  The firecracker we are lighting to get this going with a bang is the Snowy Mountain Summer Spectacular being held appropriately the Fourth of July weekend in Lewistown.  To be followed with the Copper Spring Ranch Cutting in Bozeman the last weekend in July.  Both shows are hosting an Angela Bauer Youth Scholarship cutting to give our Montana youth members a chance to cut for some college green! 

Thank goodness July is going to get us back in the saddle and going again; because August is gonna rock n roll now.  First off:   The Big Sky Aged Event and Weekend Cutting in Kalispell—week long Aged Event with an exciting new venue, an Angela Bauer Youth Scholarship Cutting and A Tough Enough To Wear Pink Bridleless.  This will be followed by the R&R Cutting in Corvallis being held at the fabulous Sapphire Event Center.  August will close with the Meadow Vue Ranch LAE and Weekend Cutting in Henry’s Lake, Idaho.  The Meadow Vue Ranch show is as close to a “true ranch” cutting  as you are going to get these days—campfires, cattle being trailed in, cowboy coffee, the great outdoors and all the weather mother nature can throw at us!!  Check it out!

Reminder to the membership, it is that time again—the nomination committee consisting of Cody Lee, Suzanne Nellen, Donald Weeding and myself are waiting for your nominations for President, Vice President and the four MCHA board member seats that will be coming up this year.  Please take the time to contact these guys and share your ideas on the members you would like to see sitting on and representing you on the 2012 MCHA board.  After having the privilege to serve on this board for the past 4 years, the one thing I can say without a doubt is this:  the members of this association are 100% behind and committed to MCHA and the betterment and growth of the sport of cutting in Montana, as well as everywhere.  Not only does that pride and dedication make the Board’s job easier, but also makes it more rewarding for all.  This is your association, which has ample capable and talented individuals to fill these seats. So let us hear from you!

What a great lineup of shows—See You There!

Theresa Nelson

MCHA President

The Director’s Meeting was called to order by President, Theresa Nelson at Suzanne Nellen’s office on June 12, 2011 at 10:30am.   Board members present were Will Nuttall, Tom Campbell, John L. Dublin, Bambi Gress, Cody Lee, Suzanne Nellen, Audrey O’Keefe, and Gene Morris by phone.    

Reviewed:    The board reviewed the MCHA Financial Statement dated 06/01/2011.  The board approved the Financial Statement as presented.

Old or Unfinished Business:   There was no old or unfinished business to review.

New Business:  The board discussed the EHV-1 situation and what the impact will be on the MCHA schedule.  After much discussion Will Nuttall made a motion to go forward and support the show scheduled in Lewistown, Snowy Mountain Summer Spectacular on July 1-July 3, with Producer Tom Cambell’s discretion.   John Dublin second the motion.   All board members were in favor and the motion passed unanimously.

Theresa Nelson presented the question from NCHA in regards to next year’s NCHA Days.  The board discussed what they would like to see a bigger and better show for next year and not reschedule NCHA Days for this year.  The board will plan to go forward and apply to host NCHA Days for 2012.

The board discussed the CSR (Copper Spring Ranch) donation for this year’s NCHA Days.  Theresa Nelson made a motion to refund the $2000 donated by CSR with a letter of thanks for their support this year.  John Dublin second the motion.  After more discussion the motion was withdrawn and the board tabled this until the next meeting.

The board discussed the Year End Show.  This year’s show will be held on Friday, Sept. 23, and Saturday, Sept. 24 at the Sapphire Event Center in Corvallis, MT.  More planning for the Year End Show will be discussed at the next board meeting.

The board discussed the Year End Awards.  Bambi Gress gave a brief on year end awards and presented some ideas.  Bambi and Audrey O’Keefe will work on awards and report at the next meeting.

Next on the agenda was the Nomination Committee for this year’s election.  The people serving on this committee are Cody Lee, Suzanne Nellen, Gene Morris, Donald Weeding and Theresa Nelson.  This year there will be 2 Officers (President and Vice President) and 4 Directors positions up for election.  The board discussed the need to get members interested in running for these positions. 

The date for the next board meeting was tentatively set for July 8^th, at 2:00pm at Nellen Law Offices in Bozeman, MT.

There being no other new business, the meeting was adjourned.

MCHA Newsletter

MCHA would like to congratulate all of our Montana riders that participated in Ogden.  MCHA ended up being well represented in each class and finals.  A special “Thank You Guys” goes out to all our Montana trainers whom went nonstop each day helping and supporting all of us in the pen as well as out!  We couldn’t have gotten the job done without each and every one of you riding for and supporting Montana; so thank you to all.

A special congrats to CODY LEE aboard REMANITAS ALEGRIA, they  nailed the $35,000 NON PRO CHAMPIONSHIP with a 221 point run in the finals!! Also congrats to SUSIE LUCCHESI and SWEET JESUS who earned RESERVE CHAMPIONSHIP honors in the $5,000 Novice/Non-Pro!  Way to go you guys–we are proud of you!

Just like the temperature, the cutting in Montana is going to heat up in July.  Starting out the month is three full days of cutting at the Snowy Mountain Summer Spectacular in Lewistown July 1^st – 3^rd.  The month will close with the Copper Spring Ranch Weekend Show and Summer LAE in Bozeman July 29^th-31^st.  Both July shows are hosting an Angela Bauer Youth Scholarship Cutting to promote and support our very talented Montana youth riders!  The show details are posted so check them out.  Bottom line for July– two great shows giving us two great opportunities to cut in Montana!  See you there!!

Theresa Nelson

MCHA President

MCHA Newsletter

 Montana cutters are kicking off May in Ogden at Western Nationals.  Good luck to all of our very talented and dedicated MCHA members at this national event which celebrates and tops off the 2010 NCHA cutting season.  Montana is truly proud of all of you riding for the MCHA brand and extends a huge GO GET ‘EM to all of you!

 Back in Montana, our first May show will be held at the Keyser Creek Arena in Columbus.  All of us are familiar with this arena and we are all very excited to have the new owners Ralph Young and Melissa Fraze on board producing a MCHA cutting.  So let’s all come out and show these new producers how appreciative we are that they are continuing to support MCHA and cutting in Montana. MCHA says THANK YOU to the Keyser Creek Arena family!

  Hey all you cutters and horse lovers, don’t forget the MCHA Montana license plate is out there and available for all of us whom want to support this great association by sporting the classy looking “The Ride of your Life” plate on our rigs and trailers.  It’s a great plate-check it out!

  Attention Montana youth cutters—the dates have been set for the 2011 Angela Bauer Youth Scholarship cuttings.  This summer you will have three chances to cut for some green at the Snowy Mountain Summer Spectacular Cutting in Lewistown, The Copper Spring Ranch Cutting in Bozeman and the Big Sky Aged Event Weekend Cutting in Kalispell. So mark your calendars and come a cuttin’!

 MCHA would like to extend a HUGE thank you to the dedicated Angela Bauer Youth Scholarship committee.   Without your devotion this opportunity would not be available to Montana’s youth.  Many thanks to Chad Bauer, Kathy Foote, Suzanne Nellen and Will Nuttall.                                               

 Big news in June–MCHA is proud to host this year’s NCHA Days June 4^th & 5^th at the La Cense Arena in Dillon.  The MCHA board has been hard at work putting together what promises to be a top notch show with a new venue at this great facility.

 We plan to kick it off in style with a Randy Holman and Kenny Platt clinic held all day Thursday and Friday morning.  Come and soak up all you can from these two very talented and accomplished individuals.  Contact Theresa Nelson 406-369-2024 or tnelson@usadig.com to reserve your spot today.

On board this year to help sponsor NCHA Days nationwide is the American Quarter Horse Association.  MCHA is excited to be offering two full days of the following AQHA cutting classes:  Sr Horse, Jr Horse, Amateur and Youth.  This is your chance to qualify for the prestigious 2011 AQHA World Show held in Oklahoma City this fall. 

With Montana, Idaho and Wyoming approval, this year’s Area 4 NCHA Days promises to be one heck of a show.  Big Added $, Big Participation, Big Opportunities to Win and Learn all under the truly beautiful Montana Big Sky—there ya have it, nothing else to say except…Hope to see you there!!

 Theresa Nelson

MCHA President

MCHA Newsletter
The 2011MCHA cutting season got kicked off in style last month with the ICHA Spring Weekend Show in Nampa, Idaho.  Montana is sending out a huge hooray to our winning MCHA members Susie Lucchesi, Tony Piatelli, Tim Johnson and Jim Bower for a job well done!  It was a great start to our season and the Idaho Cutting Horse Association went all out to produce a top notch show—Thank You ICHA.

April is the month for all of us to get ramped up and ready for Western Nationals and the Trailhead Cutting planned for Miles City April 23rd and 24^th will give us just that opportunity.  In conjunction with the cutting, a Tom Campbell clinic will be offered April 21st and 22nd. Those of you interested in this clinic contact Cindy Fraser 406-853-2066 for additional information.   Miles City has hosted a MCHA-approved cutting for many years now and for those of you who haven’t had the opportunity to experience this historically rich western town—here’s your chance.

 April also has one more chance to get ready for Ogden on April 21^st with a one day Will Nuttall cutting clinic being put together to benefit the “Look Development Fund”.  For more information on this program and to register please contact Krista Nuttall at 406-860-3087.

 Also don’t forget to mark your calendars for the new Keyser Creek Cutting in Columbus May 21st and 22nd.  This promises to be a great show with a new name and producer but the same great arena.  Hope to see you there.

The ballots for the one Montana National Director Seat open this upcoming year are out and due this month.  Please take the time to cast your vote for the individual you would like to see representing you at a national level.  So get busy and VOTE!  With that said, MCHA would like to extend a huge thank you to our three current Montana National Directors; Buddy Westphal, John L Dublin and Bill Parker.  It is very easy in the mix of everything to overlook just all the hard work and support these three very talented individuals give to our association.  Your dedication to Montana, MCHA and the NCHA is without a doubt unsurpassed and your devotion to improve the sport of cutting in Montana and everywhere by striving to make the best better benefits our association hugely.  THANK YOU!

And last but certainly not least, good luck to all the Montana riders competing in Western Nationals.   Montana is proud to have each and every one of you riding for and representing MCHA.  The Montana Cutting Horse Association says it loud and we say it proud:  GO MONTANA!!!
Theresa Nelson

MCHA President

MCHA Newsletter

Finally, Finally– It’s Finally time to cut!!  The 2011 MCHA season will kick off March 19^th & 20^th with the ICHA Spring Weekend Show in Nampa, Idaho.  This promises to be a great show with a fabulous venue for us to start our show season off right.

There are some exciting changes coming this month for MCHA.  Jann Parker has moved full throttle forward in getting our new website designed and rolling.  Be watching for it to come on board sometime this month, same address www.montanacha–fresh new look and feel!  Also, please, please be patient and understanding-this website is completely association hands on—meaning Jann, Kelly and I are posting and designing all the info and such which will appear on the website.  In short, I can safely and happily state computer geeks we are not; therefore, please forgive the initial glitches and screw up’s that are bound to appear.  Have faith, we are absolutely working on it!

Also coming this month is our Association’s new publication:  The Cascade Horseman.  The Cascade Horseman has a long history with MCHA and we were thrilled when they contacted us to let us know they were bringing the publication back.  To ensure our members have full access to all our news and happenings, we will have a short overlap period of both publications, the Wrangler and the Cascade.  So be watching your mailboxes and read up on all the Montana news and check out all the additions and changes to our constantly evolving schedule.

Yes, I am an Eastern Montana gal through and through, but I’ve got to say—spring in Eastern Montana can be truly beautiful and April gives MCHA members the opportunity to welcome spring and come out and cut at the Trailhead Cutting in Miles City April 23 & 24^th.  Miles City has hosted a MCHA-approved cutting for many years now and for those of you who haven’t had the opportunity to experience this historically rich western town—here’s your chance. Come and get a taste of the Old West and Cut It Up in MC!   Hope to see you there!

Theresa Nelson

MCHA President

Held at Nellen Law Firm, Bozeman, MT

January 15, 2011

The Director’s Meeting to plan for the upcoming 2011 MCHA season was called to order by President, Theresa Nelson at Suzanne Nellen’s office on January 15, 2011 at 10am.   Board members present were Will Nuttall, Tom Campbell, John L. Dublin, Bambi Gress, Cody Lee, Gene Morris, Suzanne Nellen, Audrey O’Keefe, secretary/treasurer Kelly Heiken, and member John Bostedt.

Reviewed:

The board reviewed the minutes from the September 24, 2010 General Membership Meeting.  There were no changes, the board approved the minutes.

The board reviewed the MCHA Financial Statement dated 12/31/2010 and MCHA Financial Statement dated 01/15/2010.  The board approved both Financial Statements.

Correspondence:

Kelly presented the board with a thank you card from Donald & Bettylou Weeding, and a thank you from Ty Hegstrum.  Kelly presented the board a request from Russ Elrod and Ralph Little asking to be put on our Judge’s list.  Kelly informed the board she has received correspondence from Ray Church of Nampa, ID in regards to being a vendor at future MCHA cuttings.  Kelly also had a request from Jaxque Duxbury of Butte, MT to also be a vendor at upcoming shows.

Old or Unfinished Business:

Will Nuttall reported briefly on the Youth Scholarship fund.  Their books were audited and everything was accounted for and good.  Will reported there is around $20,000 in the account and they plan to work with the 2011 show producers as to which shows would like to host this event.  Generally 2 or 3 shows will include the Youth Scholarship Cuttings.

The Montana National Directors report was giving by John L. Dublin.  He stated at this time the topics being discussed at the NCHA is the Amateur statues and the payout schedule.   The payout system the NCHA was going to change to did not work.  The directors had an emergency conference call last week.  For 3 hours they discussed what needed to be done to fix the system.  John L. distributed an updated payout schedule from the NCHA.  He gave examples of the new payout system that is going to be used.  He stated, basically they will be going back to the 2010 system.    John L. reviewed the numbers and payouts listed.  He stated the NCHA Executive Board passed this recommendation and for 2011 will be going forward with this plan.  FasterCuts will switch back the software for the NCHA at no cost, and this handout is the new adopted system that will be used for payouts.

John L. talked about the NCHA National Convention locations for 2011 will be Oklahoma City, for 2012 is Nashville, and 2013 is Fort Worth.  He stated it does cost the NCHA some money to move around but it’s better to represent the whole county vs. continuing to just have it in Fort Worth.

John L. reported the NCHA weekend show approval fee has increased from 6% to 8%.  This is the first increase in 26 to 27 years.  He reported there was a conference call with Chris Benedict, the Chairman of the Finance Committee.  They discussed the situation and what the NCHA needed to do with their fees and other ways to decrease their costs.  The NCHA has increased the Achievement Buckle from $1,000 to $2,000.  He also stated the NCHA will be decreasing the amount they give to each association that holds NCHA Days from $3,000 to $2,000.  The purpose of this money is to use for awards, or barbeques, basically it is like hosting a company party.  The FasterCuts software fee will be through the NCHA now and cost $450, the License Fee has increased and the Grassroots Clinic has increased to $175.

Theresa Nelson and Gene Morris reported on the Glacier CHA.  She talked with Scott McWalters Friday, Jan. 14 and expressed to him that MCHA would like to keep communications open and ongoing.  He said the Glacier CHA has asked the NCHA to grandfather them in the NCHA as an affiliate under the old rules.  Right now they are waiting to hear back from the NCHA.  Theresa reported that last year the NCHA held a meeting at Western Nationals in regards to this application.  At this meeting, the NCHA tabled the discussion and no action was taken.  The board members discussed a new rule with the NCHA, which is generally referred to the Lee Garner rule, if you only show in one facility and do not go to any other arenas, then only half of your earnings will count towards NCHA money.  Their show schedule and the two “NCHA pending” show dates were discussed.  The board stated they would like to keep communications open.

New Business:

The board discussed a proposal submitted by Jann Parker to be the MCHA Promotions/PR representative.  She is interested in revamping the Web Page, Facebook updates, and write-ups of our members’ successes.  The board discussed the work that is involved in keeping everything up to date.  Will Nuttall made a motion to hire Jann Parker for this position.  John L. Dublin seconds the motion.  All board members were in favor and the motion passed unanimously.

The board discussed the MCHA web-site and what we need to do to keep it up to date.  The board discussed having Jann look into other options of web hosting.  Theresa Nelson had been in contact with the Idaho CHA and what they use for their web site.  Will Nuttall made a motion to contact the Idaho people in regards to hosting our web site, and gave Jann Parker approval to go ahead with whatever option she felt would work best for our association.   Bambi Gress second the motion.  All board members were in favor and the motion passed unanimously.

Theresa Nelson presented a letter from the Cascade Horseman Magazine.  They are going to bring back this publication.  MCHA started using the Wrangler when the Cascade Horseman quit publishing several years back.  The Cascade is going to charge $6 per person.  The Wrangler charges $8 per person.  It is the same people that did this publication before.  The board discussed if they are happy with the publication we are using now.  After much discussion, Will Nuttall made a motion to revisit the Cascade Horseman for the MCHA monthly publication.  Bambi Gress second the motion.  All Board members were in favor and the motion passed unanimously.

Theresa Nelson talked about the current MCHA membership policy.  It was stated that most associations make it mandatory to be a member to show, such as in Idaho and Nevada.  The board members discussed what out of state shows they have been to where they were required to be a member.  Tom Campbell made a motion to include a rule and regulation that states “riders and owners must be an MCHA member to show at a MCHA produced cutting”.  Will Nuttall seconds the motion.  All board members were in favor and the motion passed unanimously.  Suzanne Nellen will help with the working of this and will be added in to the Rules & Regulations for the 2011 show year.

Theresa Nelson discussed the MCHA bond that is necessary to have as a producer.  Going forward, if the MCHA is going to co-producer a show, the other producer will also be required to have a bond.  If the MCHA co-produces any more shows they will have to be truly a co-producer and share any profits 50/50, or any losses the same.  The board stated they want to continue to help any new producers get started, but the NCHA has made it clear that we will have to follow these rules to be a co-producer.

Next on the agenda was establishing an agreement contract for MCHA Shows.  Last year there was a lot of discussion in regards to the MCHA and Show Producers.  Theresa has created a draft letter for a Producer Contract.  She distributed this contract to the other board members for their review.  Theresa asked the Board members to read over this contract and get back to her with any suggestions.

The next item of business was the MCHA Year-End Senior Youth Scholarship.  The board reviewed the amounts from last year, 1^st – $400, 2^nd – $200, and 3^rd – $100.  Theresa Nelson made a motion to keep the same amounts for this year.  John L. Dublin second and the motion passed.  Will Nuttall and Kathy Foote will let the board know the dates of the Angela Bauer Youth Scholarship cuttings.  The board discussed that MCHA has provided the High School Rodeo Cutting trophies in the past.  Cody Lee made a motion to continue to provide these trophies.  Will Nuttall second and the motion passed.

The board discussed the level of Sponsorship the MCHA provides at Ogden.  They felt it was good to continue with the meal/luncheon and ¼ page ad.  Cody Lee made a motion to continue with the same level of sponsorship as last year.  Tom Campbell second and the motion passed.  The Board reviewed the MCHA Corporate Sponsor amounts.  The board agreed to leave the fee to be a Corporate Sponsor at $400, the same as last year.

The board reviewed the Horse of the Year from last year.  The Open Horse of the Year was determined by most money earned including all Open and Novice horse class earnings.  The Non-Pro Horse of the Year included all horses that won a Non-Pro Class, excluding the $2,000 and $800, and then was voted on by the general membership.  Tom Campbell made a motion to continue with this system for the coming year.  Bambi Gress second the motion and passed.

The board talked about the NWAB Class.  John L. Dublin made a motion to let the NWAB class rest for one more year.  Theresa second the motion and it passed.  Next the board discussed the new $1,000 Amateur Class.  Will Nuttall stated this class will follow the Amateur rules, and the rider will have to own the horse.  Where as in the $800 Rider class, which is not an NCHA class, the rider does not have to own the horse.  The board discussed they would like to continue to have the $800 and add in the $1,000 Amateur Class.  Next the board discussed adding a 4 Year old Class, Derby Open and Non-Pro.  The board all agreed they would like to see this class added.

John L. Dublin made a motion to accept the following classes as approved for MCHA year end awards; Open, Non-Pro, $50,000 Amateur, $35,000 Non-Pro, $15 Amateur, $10,000 Novice Horse, $3,000 Novice Horse, $15,000 Novice Horse Non-Pro, $2,000 Limited Rider, Senior Youth, Junior Youth, $800 Rider, $1,000 Novice Horse, $5,000 Novice Horse Non-Pro, with the addition of the new $1,000 Amateur, Derby Open and Derby Non-Pro (however awards levels for the 3 new classes will be decided at a later date).  Will Nuttall second the motion.   All board members were in favor and the motion passed unanimously.

The next item of business was the Committee assignments.  Will Nuttall is the Show Committee Chairman, with all board members.  Corporate Sponsors Committee is headed by Kelly Heiken with help from Audrey O’Keefe.  Year End Awards Committee is headed by Bambi Gress with help from Audrey O’Keefe, and Kelly Heiken.  Nominating Committee Chairman is Cody Lee, Gene Morris, Theresa Nelson and assisted by Donald Weeding.  There will be several board member positions open this year, the Nominating Committee hopes to start early getting names of members who will be interested in running.

The next item of business was the 2011 MCHA Show schedule.  Theresa Nelson presented a request from the South Point, Paula Gaughan for show approval on 3 shows.    The NCHA will not approve these shows, as they will not approve any of her shows until the lawsuit is settled.  Paula is asking several associations to approve them.  The MCHA would not pay a fee, the approval fee would be added on to the bill of any MCHA member that was showing there.  Theresa reminded the board that it would take a unanimous vote to approve it, as it is an out of state show.  The board did not feel it was necessary for the MCHA to approve these shows.  There was no motion made.

The Idaho CHA has asked for MCHA approval of their upcoming show on March 19 and 20^th at Nampa, ID.  It is their ICHA Spring Weekend Show at the Idaho Horse Park.  The board discussed this is a nice facility.  The Idaho CHA would like to approve a few of our shows this year along with the MCHA approving some of theirs.  They felt it worked well last year with Idaho approving our show in Whitehall.  Theresa stated at the Whitehall show the MCHA paid a $5 fee for the Idaho members that showed there, and this worked out well.  As there will not be any MCHA shows in March, the board felt this was a good show to start with.  Will Nuttall made a motion to approve the March 19-20 show in Idaho, with approval fee only on MCHA members who show there.  Gene Morris second the motion.  All board members were in favor and the motion passed unanimously.

The board discussed at length several show dates, locations, and cattle supply.   The board made contact with several show producers to discuss options with them, this included Jann Parker, Rob Fraser, Ralph Young, Dean Briggs and John Stefka.  The board also made contact with member Robert Borick in regards to helping find cattle for the Year End Show.  Karen Fellerhoff has expressed an interest in doing a July cutting in Bozeman at her facility.  Bambi Gress will contact the Copper Spring Ranch in regards to a hosting a cutting, from interest shown last year.  Robert Borick also expressed an interest in producing a July show and Will Nuttall will be in contact with the new Livingston barn as well.

Theresa Nelson made a motion to approve the following show schedule.  Will Nuttall second the motion.  All board members were in favor and the motion passed unanimously.

Tentative 2011 MCHA Show Schedule:

March 19-20    ICHA Spring Weekend Show, Nampa, ID

April 23-24      Trailhead Cutting, Miles City, MT

May 21-22       Keyser Creek Cutting, Columbus, MT

June 4-5            NCHA Days – Le Cense Arena, Dillon, MT

June 25-26       MCHA Produced Cutting, Big Timber, MT

June 30-July 3  Snowy Mountain Summer Spectacular, Fairgrounds Lewistown, MT

July ???             The board is working on several locations, Bozeman, Livingston, or Corvallis

August 6-7       Big Sky Weekend Cutting, Majestic Arena, Kalispell, MT

August 27-28   Meadow Vue Ranch Cutting, MVR, Henry’s Lake, ID

Sept.  23-24      MCHA Year End Show, Sapphire Event Center, Corvallis, MT

Cody Lee asked where we were at on ordering and paying for stalls at MCHA produced shows.

Theresa Nelson is checking into what it would take to be able to accept credit card payments from contestants wanting to order stalls.  She will get more information and report back to the board.

John L. Dublin asked about the possibility of having a lifetime membership for the MCHA.  Presently this is not offered.  Theresa asked John L. to do some research and get back to the board.

The next meeting is scheduled for May 20, 2011 at the 307 Restaurant in Columbus, MT.

John L. Dublin made a motion and Theresa second to adjourn the meeting, at 2:45p.m.

Addendum to above Meeting:

Regarding the show schedule, the June 25-26 date will not work in Big Timber due to a conflict

at the arena, adjustment made to schedule:

June 25-26            MCHA Produced Cutting, Whitehall or Livingston possible locations.

The above schedule it tentative, while details are being worked out with locations and producers.

Great news everyone–the 2011 MCHA show schedule is set and the ball is rolling for Montana to have another great year. The MCHA Board met January 15th in Bozeman. I am proud to say all ten Officers and Directors were in attendance. Our membership has always impressed me because of our level of commitment, support and attention we all show this association, from the general membership to the individual producers to the Board. Our membership may be very diverse, but it is plain to see we all are behind this organization 100%–Thank You!!

New this year—MCHA is very excited to work with Jann Parker in building and enhancing our association through promotion and marketing. Jann is full of great ideas and if anyone can keep us moving forward and growing while at the same time highlighting and shining the light upon all our awesome accomplishments’ it’s most certainly Jann Parker. MCHA would like to extend a huge thank you to Molly Taylor for getting us going in the right direction last year with our facebook page and advertising. We wouldn’t be this far along without her donated time and expertise. Thank you Molly!

New MCHA approved classes—1000 Amateur class. This class follows Amateur rules; therefore Montana will continue to offer our 800 Rider class as well.
Also, this year we are adding a Derby Open and Derby Non-Pro to our list of MCHA approved classes. More classes, more opportunities to cut and more chances to win in Montana!

Last year both Montana and Idaho approved several shows across state lines and it was beneficial and enjoyed by members of both associations. Following on the heels of last year’s success; MCHA’s 2011 show season will start with an Idaho produced show in Nampa March 19th & 20th. This weekend show follows ICHA’s Spring Aged Event March 16th-18th and promises to be a great venue for us to start our 2011 show season right. Hope to see you there!

Theresa Nelson
MCHA President

The MCHA General Membership Meeting was called to order at 7:00pm at the Double D Creek Arena by president, Theresa Nelson. There were 30 members present along with Directors Bambi Gress, Will Nuttall, Tom Campbell, Cody Lee, Dave Weyer, Suzanne Nellen, Michelle Van Dyke, Mike Willey, and Secretary/Treasurer Kelly Heiken.

Reviewed:
The minutes from the July 23, 2010 meeting were distributed and reviewed. There were no changes and the minutes were approved.
The MCHA Financial Statement dated September 23, 2010 was distributed and reviewed. The membership reviewed the Financial Statement and it was approved.

Reports:
Theresa Nelson discussed the upcoming 2011 show schedule, the MCHA does not usually have any shows in the first 3 months. Looking forward to next yours schedule there may be some changes. Producers are encouraged to contact Will Nuttall about their plans. The MCHA is interested in setting up new venues and new shows along with revisiting some of our old venues such as shows produced by the Never Sweat Ranch, and returning to Whitehall and Twin Bridges. Show producers were asked to have their plans ready for next year and get it to Will as soon as they can.

The members present were asked if they liked the out of state shows that were approved, such as NCHA Days at Douglas, WY and Lewisville, ID that was held on the same weekend. The members present expressed they liked having both options to those shows.

Will Nuttall stated there are a lot of Canadian’s that would like to come to our shows. He felt maybe we could work more with them. If you want to show at Canada, it only takes a Coggins and International Health to take your horse to Canada, along with your passport. This might be an option to attract more cutters to our shows. Additionally, we may want to work more with Wyoming as well, to work together on a few more shows. The membership is asked to talk it over and get back to Will with any information or ideas they may have on this subject.

Will Nuttall reported he has been in contact with the Glacier Cutting Club. He stated they would like to come over and work together with our association. He felt it would be good to help them, and possibly have approved MCHA shows with their club.

Area Director John L. Dublin and Buddy Westphal reported on attending the NCHA convention that was held in Denver this past June. John L. spoke first, with information that the convention is a good time to voice your options. The committees meet at the convention, then take information and present it to the Executive Boards.

John L. reported NCHA has approved a $1,000 Amateur Class. This will be on a 3 year trial basis, with the amateur rules applying. He reported on the location of the NCHA Convention, they are looking at 1 more year in Fort Worth or possibly moving in 2011 to Oklahoma City, 2012 in Nashville, 2013 back to Dallas/Fort Worth. Buddy Westphal added that this was not set yet, they are still looking at other locations.

John L. reported that all NCHA shows must have an NCHA Judge. John L. has been appointed to the Open Show Committee and his Uncle Chris Dublin is Vice-Chair of the Open Show Committee as well. If you have any comments or input on this committee, please contact him as we have really good connections at this time.

John L. reported there was much discussion in regards to the payout at the shows. The payout has changed numerous times with the $500 added money going to 1 payout for every 4 horses. It is now going to go back to 1 payout for every 3 horses. It really hit home with a lot of $499 added money shows, so now the 3rd place horse should get a check as well.

John L. touched on Standing Rule no. 8, which states it is now mandatory for 3 head of fresh cattle for weekend shows.

Buddy Westphal spoke next and told the membership that if you haven’t gone to a convention, it’s a really good thing to do. He goes to a lot of the committee meetings, and gets lots of good information. Buddy is on the Long Range Planning Committee. He stated that all members can go to these meetings.

Buddy touched on some of the Judges rules regarding clothing. You will no longer be allowed to wear a t-shirt, sweatshirt, hooded sweatshirt. Show management in agreement with the judge could allow hoddies (hooded sweatshirts) in the working part of the arena, but under extreme weather conditions only.

He talked about the way that the judges are now trained to score a cutting. On the score sheet, if you get a “G” in the 1 pt. column, they are looking at your hand up to far on the neck of your horse. He states that all the judges are going to be looking for this, and it would be best for you to be more aware of this penalty point. Buddy stated the judges don’t like to see your hand open and up the neck of your horse. He then discussed if a contestant doesn’t score at least a 60, you will no longer get a check. There will be no payouts to a contestant scoring a zero.

Buddy reported on horse drug paraphernalia, there is now a no tolerance of horse drug use and if you are caught with any, you will be suspended. Starting at the Super Stakes and summers shows, they will be randomly being drawing horse blood samples. The members present asked if that included Butte? Buddy was not sure, but stated he would not want to take that chance if it were him. If you have an injury at a show, you are going to want to have vet administer any drugs to your horse. He stated that you don’t want to have it with you.

Buddy report that the NCHA will award Youth Scholarships in Ogden in 2011, and then it will move to Napa in 2012. The question arose from the membership if Youth will be able to show in the new $1,000 Amateur Class. Buddy stated this still needs to be determined at the November meeting. He reported that the Super Stakes will be adding a Gelding Class. He also talked about the money paid out at shows, in regards to how many places are paid, with the $500 money added verse the $499 money add.

Buddy discussed the long range planning of the NCHA. There will be an NCHA General Membership meeting on December 11th at Fort Worth. Buddy encouraged all members who might be attending the Futurity, to please attend, as they are looking to ratify some of the by-laws. Some of the issues they will be discussing includes the NCHA Vice-President cannot be from the same area as the President, and the location of the conventions.

Buddy reported being an NCHA affiliate membership is an honor for any association. Going forward, groups requesting to be an affiliate membership will have 1 year probation, must have 3 cuttings, and show financial responsibility. Changes that have been made to the NCHA application for affiliate membership now includes 25 members must sign the application.

Buddy gave a brief report covering the lawsuit between the NCHA and Paula Gaughan. It has gone to court and the NCHA was awarded $75,000. Basically the court said yes the NCHA has the responsibility to provide information to all members, however, that does not include personal information, such as medical records. The information obtained is not open for general distribution. However, this is still in court appeals.

Theresa Nelson thanked our National Directors Bill Parker, John L. Dublin, and Buddy Westphal for their service and time. She stated that a National Director position will be coming open and the application will be in the Cutting Horse Chatter if you are interested. The deadline to apply is December.

Old Business:
Theresa discussed the Horse of the Year. She stated this year there is a Novice/Open Horse of the Year, which is based on money earned. There is also a Non-Pro/Amateur Horse of the Year, which will be voted on at the show. The ballets are available at the meeting and throughout the show. Please return to Betty Lou Weeding by Saturday at 1pm, so that they can be counted.

Theresa stated this year there is a change to the Youth Scholarship Fund. The board increased the money that is awarded, with 1st place receiving $400, 2nd place receiving $200, and 3rd place receiving $100. There will be a presentation at the Banquet Saturday night. With this change, the youth will not be included in the saddle giveaway at the banquet.

New Business:
Theresa reported at the 2011 Ogden show, there will be more money added this year. That show will be moving next year. The MCHA has always had a strong presence at this show, and hopes that this will continue.

We will be running a 2011 Early Membership Drive at the show, sign up this weekend and pay a discounted rate, plus get your name in for a prize drawing. You can pay this weekend and add it on to your show bill. Please see either Theresa or Kelly.

The Banquet tomorrow night will be held at the 307 Restaurant in Columbus with checks taken at the door. Social hour will start at 7pm, Banquet at 8pm.

Theresa asked Bambi to give a quick rundown of this year’s class awards. Bambi told the members there are some great awards to be had this year, including buckles, hair on hide travel bags, headstalls, soft ride boots, and hair on hide organizers. There will also be a drawing for every class entered at this weekend’s show, you get a change to will a custom made cooler. Other prize to win includes 2 pair of custom made chaps, and the 2 saddles.

Theresa asked if you have any auction items to please get them to Michelle Van Dyke. The auction this year has several wonderful items.

Theresa reported the election results. There were three board member positions open this year. After the votes were counted by Betty Lou Weeding and her election team, the new board members are Audrey O’Keefe, John L. Dublin, and Gene Morris. Our new Youth Director is Wyatt Nuttall. Congratulations to these people and we look forward to working with you.

Theresa thanked Michelle Van Dyke, Dave Weyer, and Mike Willey for their time and service on the board this past 3 years. They have truly been an asset to work with. This board has had some difficult decisions to make, but she is proud of how everyone has worked together to improve our association.

There being no other new business to discuss, John L. Dublin made a motion to adjourn the meeting, Dave Weyer second, and the meeting was closed.

Submitted by Kelly Heiken
MCHA, Secretary/Treasurer

Please visit http://www.doj.mt.gov/driving/platedesign/default.asp to order!

Get yours today!

Happy New Year Everyone!

MCHA is very proud to extend a well deserved Congratulation to Randy Holman for making the Semi-Finals in Fort Worth this past December, riding One Rowdy Kitty, owned by Dave & Sandy Sabey of Bigfork. The Montana Ranch of Bigfork has been a corporate sponsor of MCHA for many years, as well as one of the primary supporters of the Montana Angela Bauer Youth Scholarship Fund. You have consistently worked to enhance and strengthen the sport and business of cutting in Montana. MCHA would like to say Thank you & Congrats to Dave & Sandy, Randy & Susan and Eli.

The MCHA board would like to welcome our new directors: Audrey O’Keefe, Gene Morris and John L Dublin. I would also like to thank the outgoing members of our board whom have done a terrific job in leading and guiding this association for the last two years: Michelle Van Dyke, Dave Weyer and Mike Willey. The MCHA Board of Directors will be meeting January 15th in Bozeman. If anyone has any items to be placed on the agenda please contact me or any board member.

Don’t forget to get your 2011 memberships in. With Kelly already collecting 65 early memberships; seems everyone is excited for the 2011 MCHA season. See You There!

Theresa Nelson
MCHA President

Congratulations to our 2011 Open Class Winners – riders/owners/ and horses!   Championship honors to Stylish Raz A Taz owned by Switchback Cutting Horses and ridden by Will Nuttall; Olenas Dually Colorme and Tom Campbell owned by Mark Hendrickson win Reserve honors; Playin In Jewels owned by GCH Land Cattle and ridden by Russ Miller winning third; and Decidedlys Kitten owned by James Bower and ridden by John L. Dublin earning fourth.  CONGRATS!

Merry Christmas, Happy New Year and May all of us have a blessed and joyous Holiday season.

Theresa Nelson
MCHA President

Well the 2010 MCHA season came to a close with our year end show and banquet held in Columbus. The association came out full force to support the show, as well as all the festivities, and what a party it was!! We had the chance to cut on good cattle, with tough completion and then relax and socialize at our board hosted social before the general membership meeting. The awards banquet had great food and wonderful awards and was a very, very nice finale to our cutting season. Special congratulations go out to Ty Hegstrum, Sr. Youth Rookie of the Year, as well as Sam Hoffman, Jr. Youth Rookie of the Year. Tim Stryker earned the MCHA 2010 Rookie of the year and Audrey O’Keefe was awarded the Most Inspirational. Congrat’s go out to Sweet Shootin Lena and Mike Willey, Rockin W QH’s for the Open Horse of the Year, as well as Sweet Jesus and Susie Lucchesi for the NP Horse of the Year. As the winner of the 2010 MCHA NP Top Money Earner, I would like to say Congrat’s to all of us and Thank You to the member’s of this association for making it such a successful and top notch organization. It truly shows throughout the year just how great and competitive Montana cutters are. Our hat is off to each and every one of you.

With the MCHA season finalizing, the race for the NCHA Top Fifteen is still going full throttle—Good Luck to all of you continuing to haul for that buckle and know that MCHA is proudly behind each and every one of you– GO MONTANA!!!

Theresa Nelson
MCHA President

It’s that time again for MCHA to celebrate the close of our 2010 cutting season with our Year End Show and Banquet, this year on the books for September 24^th and 25^th at the DD Creek Ranch in Columbus.  Two full days of cutting-fresh cattle throughout is our goal-and Friday night we will have a MCHA social plus the general membership meeting.  If possible, depending on how tight the class races are at that point, we will have the vote for our Amateur/NonPro Horse of the Year.  The Am/NP Horse of the Year will be voted on at the yearend show, consisting of each horse that is ridden to the yearend championship of each Am/NP class, except for the 2000 LR and the 800 Rider.  If races come down to the last day of cutting, then the vote will be taken at the beginning of the Yearend Banquet.  The Open/Novice Horse of the Year will be determined on money won throughout the year.

Saturday is starting early, 7am, will a full slate of classes to be followed by the MCHA Yearend Awards Banquet, planned to be at the 307 Restaurant in Columbus.  A lot of hard work and planning has gone into putting on another fabulous Yearend Celebration with great food, awards and friends!

Don’t forget our major fund raising event for MCHA to be held during the Yearend show, which is our auction.  Michelle Van Dyke, with the help of Audrey O’Keefe, Gayle Weber and Deb Weyer are putting the auction together so please contact on the these ladies with your donations.

This promises to be another great close to yet another fabulous year of cutting in Montana, so let’s all come together and celebrate it!  Hope to see you all there.

Theresa Nelson
MCHA President