OCTOBER 2007

AUGUST 2007

Hi, All...Just touching base with everyone as our show season is starting to wind down.
 
Futurity:  We are one of the largest monetary contributors for the event so I'd like to invite each and everyone of you to come give your personal support.  The details are available on the web site.
 
We will be having a table near the futurity registration desk to promote the sales of the cookbooks and Amateur Wear.  I will need help "manning" this table.  Just an hour or two of your time helping out will be much appreciated!  Let me know if you will have some time to help with this project.
 
Hi-Tech Trail looks to be a highlight again this year.  It is an outer-space theme.  BUT, don't forget that we have "Shanika" to use for any costuming.  A green painted face is all you'd need to be the "alien" of the hour, or a mask added for fun!  She will be made available for a $50.00 donation to the amateurs. Let me know if she can accompany you for the evening.  She'd even be cute for one of the "barmaid" costumes at the Margarita bar!  Now, THAT would attract attention!
 
We will be hosting a pizza fest for card holding Iowa Amateurs on Saturday.  Listen for announcements at the show.  We will provide pizza, pop, and watermelon for FREE...just another benefit of being an Iowa ammy!  All others can eat for a $5.00 donation.
 
Get Well Wishes:  A speedy recovery to Shane Adams!  Gotta get you back in the saddle!
 
Future Fundraisers:  I am looking at some ideas for next year since the futurity is our last push for the year.  If AQ makes some changes that I think they might, we need to build our resources to help fund these projects AND be able to offer fantastic year-end awards...Please, if you have any ideas please let me know!
 
Trail ride:  Hopefully September will bring cooler weather.  Take advantage of those trails and take part in AQ's All Breed Charity Ride.  Details are available on the web site.
 
Bayer Select World Show:  Best wishes for everyone heading to Amarillo to compete.  This state has a tough bunch of select participants and we are all rooting for you to have a super show!  I will be watching the live feed and cheering for each and everyone of you!  You make us proud!
 
Thanks  again, everyone, for all the support you've shown your amateurs this year!  See ya soon!
 
 

JULY 2007

CARDS AND LETTERS REQUESTED FOR MEMBER
Word has been received that fellow Iowan, Jule Moyle, is facing substantial medical problems that may be resulting in surgery.  We are holding her in our thoughts and wishing her a speedy recovery.  Amy will be bringing blank cards to the State Fair for those who wish to send her a personal note of encouragement.  Her address is:
 
Julie Moyle
101 SE Bell
Des Moines, Iowa 50315
 

AMATEUR UPDATE

Hi, everyone!  Hope the summer is going well for all of you!
 
FIRST:  CONGRATULATIONS! to all the Iowa Amateurs who are out there kicking tail and showing up on the all around/honor roll list/Rookie!  Greg and Phyllis!  (And, I understand a new championship has been earned!)  Lynette---your mares are awesome!  Katie!  Holy cow!  Patti---yes, you have good horses!
 
I'm  just so proud to say you all live and show in Iowa!  You help make the rest of us look and perform better...we can't get by with anything around y'all!  You all are an inspiration!
 
And there are so many others who have truly excelled in the pen this year!  It is an honor to be associated with each and every one of you!
 
Second:  I wanted to take a moment to send my deepest sympathies to Dick and Debi Donnelly on the loss of their outstanding stud, Britelites Biglooks.  He was certain to have a wonderful future for you and in the halter industry as well.
 
Third:  Fundraisers....The raffle has finally come to end.  He was won by an IQHYA youth, Krista McKuster from Marengo.  I have known this wonderful young lady for several years and know that he will have a great and loving home.  Our portion of the profits came to $336.75.  Thank you, John, for giving us this opportunity!
 
We had the "All American Hot Dog Feast" on July 3rd.  Not a whole lot of people were there that evening to enjoy the fruits of our labors but those who were there really seemed to enjoy it!  Terry S. wasn't at the show yet so I made the "executive" decision to feed her office help for no charge.  I know this took a chunk out of our profits but I really wanted a chance to give back to Terry and EMG for all their support over the past year.  They have been really good to us, so that was our way of saying "Thanks!"  We made a total of $39 on this event.  Thank you also to John, Zac, and Carol for pitching in and helping to make this FUN!
 
Sara Terry is spearheading a fundraiser that will be held starting at the futurity.  She is ordering long-sleeve unisex T's and sweatshirts boasting the IA Amateur's logo.  Thank you, Sara, for taking on this project!  It has the makings to be a nice money maker for us!
 
And also debuting at the futurity will be the cookbooks that have long been in the making....Colleen has collected about 180 recipes for this project and has found a publisher who is willing to work with us at a VERY reasonable cost.  Keep this one on your list for potential holiday gifts...they are certain to be a hit!  Also, if you can think of vendors we can contact to sell them for us, let me or Colleen know...these should sell well in storefronts.  We are looking at selling them for $10.00 each.
 
I will be working the office at the futurity a great deal of the time (sorry, Roelene...you're stuck with me again!) so I can have these items set up and displayed near the futurity booth.  I'm hoping to attract a lot of sales on these items from out-of-staters to take home as tokens of their Iowa trip!
 
I'm also trying to think of activities for next year as well.  One idea I had was a "baby Naming" contest.  Breeders would give us info about their new arrivals.  A $1.00 donation for a name submission...the breeder chooses one of the names and the winner and the ammys split the money...any thoughts or any breeders interested in getting new and unique names?  Lori R. has already considered this a fun and profitable (for the ammys) way to get the newborn's named!
 
Fourth:  I really would like to plan a day for the ammy's to get together just for fun!  Does anyone have any ideas?  If so, I'd love to hear them!
 
Fifth:  That's all for now....keep going strong...keep your eye on the prize...and we'll see ya down the road!
 
Amy

JUNE 2007

The Iowa amateurs will be "Putting on the Dog" at the Freedom Fest Shows. At 6:00 on July 3rd they will be providing a meal of Hot Dogs and all the fixins' plus some other fun treats for a small donation of $5.00. So, take a break from prepping the horses and enjoy an American favorite, The Hot Dog! and show support for the Iowa Amateurs.

Yes, we are at it again. If anyone has sides to add to the hot dogs, it would be much appreciated....ex: chip dip, chili, squeeze cheese, kraut, relish, dill pickle spears, fruit, etc. please let me so I know what to bring.

Besides the horse raffle and the cookbook that is in progress there aren't any more fundraisers coming up in the near future.

But, I have had some thoughts about the ammys getting together just for the fun of it. A cookout? A dinner? Does anyone have any thoughts as to what and where and when? I'd like to get some feedback to see if there is an interest in doing something like this.

We are half way through the year and so far I can say it's been a lot of work but, oh, so much FUN! Thanks everyone for making this a successful year.

On a little sadder topic, I wanted to let you all know that my grandmother, Lois Cantwell, passed away over Memorial Weekend at age 91. She only had one child, Carol Bascom, an Iowa Amateur, one grandchild, myself, and one great-grandchild, Iowa Youth Zac Bascom. From those of you that we have heard from, thank you for your kind thoughts and wishes. Grandma never quite understood our passion for horses but she was seen many times over the past 40 years sitting on the rail rooting for her family members and also encouraging them with her wisdom.

Later!
Amy
 

MAY 2007

May 21

So, it's Monday morning and time to review our weekend activities!  Our Mother's Day Silent Auction was a great success!  Not only was it profitable  but added more excitement to the NEW State Show!  The results are as follows:
 
KICK BACK, RELAX AND INDULGE...a wine, chocolate, and aroma basket donated by Lori Robertson...purchased by Natalie Schrader  $30.00
 
WASTIN' AWAY IN MARGARITAVILLE  basket donated by Natalie Schrader ..purchased by the Rice family.  $60.00
 
ONE SEXY NIGHT basket donated by Jennie Schut purchased by "Ghost" bidder Lori Robertson for *tee hee* Cary Roth.  $50.00
 
SIX DUTCH LETTERS donated by Ronda Roozeboom purchased by Terry Schroeder in a hard fought battle of bids!  $42.00
 
GET WESTERN basket donated by Katie Pidgeon.  Winner:  Terry Schroeder.  $130.00
 
GOLF COIN DISH donated by Ronda Roozeboom.  Won by Leslie Johnston.  $10.00
 
SUN TEA JAR BASKET donated by the Warther's.  Purchased by Dave Stewart. $20.00
 
SPRING PLANTING  basket donated by Custom Tails.  Won by Terry Schroeder.  $15.00
 
PURSE BRITE donated by Sue Ann Reichert.  Purchased by Lindsey Ploen.  $10.00
 
SET OF SOY CANDLES donated by the Knowltons.  Lindsey Ploen winner.  $45.00
 
SPUR TRAY WITH SALT/PEPPER SHAKERS AND FRAME donated by Mary Greeley.  Winner was Julie Myers.  $55.00
 
PIZZA BASKET donated by the Warther's.  Won by Sandy Paris.  $25.00
 
IOWA HOME GROWN donated by the Warther's.  Purchased by the Finn Family.  $30.00
 
PURSE AND CELL PHONE CASE donated  by Ronda Roozenboom.  Purchased by "eagle eye" Carol Bascom.
 
We made a total of $562 from this fundraiser.  A HUGE "thank you" to everyone who donated truly unique items and to those folks who bid/won nice gifts for Mom!  This is surely to become an annual event!
 
 
TEAM TOURNAMENT
 
The tournie was held on Saturday and many of you signed up to participate.  Thank You!  It was a fun day!  We were able to cheer each other on and let us get to know our fellow ammys a little better!  Ronda, Sue, and Stacy worked very hard at putting all this together.  We owe them many thanks.  I know they put many hours into this venture to make it a nice day for us.!   They secured very nice prizes for everyone.  From the response this year it looks like we need to start looking for donations for next year!  Thank you everyone for your participation!
 
PIZZA HUT CARDS
 
Many people bought the Pizza Hut cards over the weekend but there are still plenty left.  If you want/need one please give me a hollar!
 
That's all for now....Keep on truckin'!
 
Amy
 

05/02/07

Hello, everyone....It's time to start another project!  At the state shows next weekend we will be starting another endeavor.  It's the Amateur CD/DVD Exchange.  Bring in your used CD's and DVD's to sell or trade!  Everyone has these items that have been listened to or watched.  For every one you "Donate" you get to pick another title for a mere $2.00 donation!  If you just want to pick from the lot the suggested donation will be $5.00.  Not a bad deal!   Sure beats the price of buying new!  Just be sure the item is in working condition.  We will be using a "log" to keep track of the exchanges.
 
The Mother's Day Silent Auction will be held until the close of the show on Saturday.  Please bring your auction items to the arena for all to see! and bid on!
 
I will have the Pizza Hut cards available as well.....this is a super deal!
 
Shannon Vroegh is bringing the raffle gelding to the show for the weekend.  I hear he is doing GREAT!  Better buy some tickets and try to win this guy!  Shannon said tonight that with the way he's going she wouldn't hesitate to list him for $6,500!  And, she's been trail riding him and there's just no "spook" in the little guy!  We will need help "manning" the raffle table, so please help out if you can.
 
We have gotten word that Colleen's father has passed away.  Please keep her in your thoughts and help give her strength through this sad time.  Our best wishes go out to her and her family.
 
Amy
 

APRIL 2007

04/20/07

Yep!  Me, again!
 
The Pizza Hut cards are here!  Come get your Pizza Hut cards!  Hey, guys....what a fantastic opportunity for us....each card has 12 stickers good for a FREE medium one-topping pizza when you purchase a large.  The cards cost $10.00 each and the amateurs get $6.00!!!!  What a great gift to throw in a graduation card...or Mother's Day...or Father's Day...or for your trainer...or a favorite teacher for an end-of-year gift...what about some to the youth for their world and congress trip?..or give to someone as a "thank you."  Anyway, these are super!  Let me know how many you need.  I need to send the money in by May 25, so act soon!  I will also have them at the District 3 show.
 
Amy
319-472-4114
612-201-0331
 

04/16/07

Hey, All!  Me again just to stay in touch!
 
The egg hunt at the novice show was great!  Many folks took part in the hunt and they all went away with smiles and lots of Easter goodies.  One of the gals who won one of the bunnies that Ronda donated tied it to her saddle horn and showed with it all day!  It was really cute and festive!  PLUS, we showed up at our barn on Monday and lo and behold!  There was that darn bunny just waiting for us!  Who knows where this little critter will "hop" to next!  Anyway, it was fun and everyone appreciated the efforts of the Iowa Amateurs to host the event!
 
Don't forget to be think of Mother's Day items for the silent auction!  Give me a hollar if you can donate an item to this "fun"raiser!
 
Thanks, and see y'all soon!
 
Amy
 

04/05/2007

Hello again!  Just a quick update to re-cap the weekend and let y'all know what's coming up!
 
On Thursday night of the last Spring Fling show we hosted an "Appetizer" meal for $5.00/plate.  All the food was made and/or donated by fellow amateurs.  AND, it was so good!  Many members brought a variety of "samplers."  The event was well received and  hardly a morsel was left.  From this fundraiser we made about $230 thanks to the generous donations and our hungry fellow showmen.  To all of you who brought food, THANK YOU!  And, to those who went through the buffet line, a HUGE thank you for helping to support the Iowa Amateurs!
 
We have been given the opportunity for another meal fundraiser this Friday evening at Madden's open and AQHA novice show.  I think we will do pizza again.  It is easy and we can use the remaining "stamps" on my card for free pizzas.
 
On Sunday (Easter) morning we are going to host an Easter Egg hunt for the show attendees.  Ronda Roozeboom has donated two very nice stuffed bunnies for the hunt.  I will be getting plastic eggs, filling them with candy and such.  Events like this promote the "fun" that is the spirit of the amateurs!
 
This was also the weekend of the Iowa Horse Fair.  Many Iowa Amateurs helped with the IQHA booth and the demonstrations.  Holly Benton gave the audiences a thrill with her roping skills while riding her sweet quarter horse.  Nice work, Holly!  You go, Cowgirl!
 
Don't forget to be coming up with donations for the "Mother's Day" gift silent auction to be held state show weekend.  Please notify me that you will be bringing something for the auction.  About 8 amateurs have already pledged a donation.  This should add to the fun of state show!
 
Pizza Hut cards have been ordered.  Remember, we get 60% of the profits from the sales of these cards.  They make fantastic graduation  gifts and nice "thank yous" for trainers!  Let me know how many you need!
 
And, please get those recipes in to Colleen.  We are moving forward with this project.
 
That's all for now.  Thanks, everybody, for all you do for the amateurs and the American Quarter Horse!
 
Amy
 
 

 

MARCH 2007

03/06/2007

WE NEED YOUR HELP!

The Amateurs of the Iowa Quarter Horse Association are putting together a cookbook and would like to include recipes submitted by members of the Iowa Quarter Horse Association.

Recipes can be mailed to me or e-mail your recipe to the address listed below.  Please include the name of your hometown along with the name of the person submitting the recipe.

You may also submit a recipe on be half of someone else. Amateurs and Youth – have you prepared a recipe for your trainer and he/she really liked it or have asked you to make it again for them? Include their name and hometown along with your name and the recipe.

We are requesting that recipes be submitted by April 15, 2007.

Thank you for taking a moment to help us with our project. We look forward to receiving your recipe.

Sincerely,

Colleen Conrad

1302 Pp Ave

Marengo IA  52301

Electronically submitted recipes can be emailed to cmconrad@iowatelecom.net

03/05/2007

The Winter Wonderland series Of shows has been truly given a new  nickname of Wild and Whacky!  Even though there were many challenges with the weather, it was great to see everyone pulling together and helping each other out.  It is evident that the Iowa showmen enjoy the competition but also enjoy and value the friendships.
 
Our pizza supper sales on Thursday was a success.  We earned about $110.00 for the fundraiser.  There is still some pop left over that we can use at the next show.  Many thanks to those amateurs who shared their homemade goodies for the event:  Becky Smith made "Grandma's Homemade Chocolate Chip Cookies,"  and Carol Bascom resurrected her famous "Horse Show Cake" from 35 years ago! and she also made a "Lemon Cake."  All the treats were a big hit!  Look for these recipies in our upcoming cookbook!  And, thank you to Becky, Carol, and Ronda for helping out at the table!
 
Several Amateurs had forwarded their recepies and we are waiting on yours!  Please send them to Colleen or myself.  You can even bring them with you to the meeting on March 17th!
 
The Amateurs will be holding a meeting on Saturday, March 17th at the conclusion of the show.  There are several important issues that we need to discuss and make decisions about.  Please attend and give your input!  If you can't be there in person we can hook you up with cell phone numbers so you can be a part of this!
 
Our upcoming fundraisers will include:  SF #1 will be a Thursday evening sub sandwich meal.  This will be sandwich, chips, desert, and pop.  SF #2 will be another Thursday evening meal.
 
I am also looking into Pizza Hut Cards to sell as a fundraiser.  We have no upfront costs and we make $6.00 for every card sold.  Each card has 12 stickers that are good for a free medium pizza when you buy a large.  These make fantastic graduation gifts!  I am looking at getting 100 cards to start with.  If all get sold, that means $600 for us!  Plus, they are good at any Pizza Hut location and I will have copies of those locations.  Great to use at horse shows!
 
We are planning a silent auction during our state shows.  The items should take on a Mother's Day theme.  The auction will close at the end of the show on Saturday night so folks can have them to give to "Mom" on Sunday.  So, be starting to think of what you can donate to help make all the moms out there smile!
 
And, keep promoting the gelding raffle! 
 
Again, any questions, concerns, comments please contact me!
 
Amy
 
FEBRUARY 2007

02/20/2007

Calling all Iowa Amateurs! We will be holding an important meeting at Kirkwood at the close of the show on Saturday, March 17. Please plan on attending as several issues need to be discussed and voted on. Please bring any recipes you have gathered for our cookbook at that time. If you cannot attend we can try to link you by cell phone so you can be part of this decision making process. Several other upcoming events will be discussed as well. Please attend! We need your input at this meeting!

Amy
612-201-0331
amybascom2340@msn.com

02/01/2007

Whoa, there!  Take a minute to catch up on the latest news!
 
I attended the IQHA meeting last Tuesday night and it was a long one.  Needed toothpicks to hold open my eyes the next day.  But that's Ok, it helps get me used to working on little rest for the show season!
 
The board members all seemed to approve our fundraising projects for the year that have been mentioned in previous announcements.  They seem quite pleased that we have come together as a group and they look forward to helping us out.
 
We are moving forward with the cookbook.  It has taken on a celebrity theme.  So, if you can help by soliciting  recipes from folks who are  important to our industry, please do.    Call or email Roelene,  Colleen, or me for the forms we are using and let me know who you have contacted so we don't double up on them.
 
  And, please, YOU are important to the industry as well.  So, please submit a recipe or two.  Please tell us an antidote about it.  EX:  how many generations it's been in your family, someone dear to you shared it with you, you created it, it's something you freeze and take with you on the road, a favorite memory attached to it, etc.  We would like to have these in by April 1.  Some of our board members who are going to the convention have agreed to identify important people there and will ask for their help.  Thank you Bill Horton, Curt Ferguson, and Wade Ellerbroek! 
 
Attention all hungry horse show folk!  On the Thursday evening at the remaining WW show and SF show, WE are providing pizza and perhaps other goodies and pop for sale.  This was suggested by Terry Schroeder since the concession stand is not open and the youth don't generally come in until Friday.  This has the potential to be a BIG moneymaker for us with only an hour or so of our time!  I have a discount card we will use at the first show that will make us even more money.  AND, they deliver!  Yea!  If you can help out at that time please let me know.  Becky Smith and Ronda Roozeboom have already volunteered to help.  Thanks!
 
That's all for now.  Stay tuned for me details.  Please check back regularly for more news!
 
Amy
 

JANUARY 2007

01/22/07

Hello, all! Wow!!! What a WILD and whacky weekend! The first show of the year was truly a "Winter Wonderland!" But we couldn't have asked for a more successful way to start the new show season. So, here is your amateur news from the weekend.

We held the fundraiser on Saturday. Many thanks for our volunteers who helped model the clothing and to their dogs for being so cute in the Fido Fleece. Bob and Becky Smith escorted their two adorable pooches, Packer and Cutter, with the company of Becky Dvorak. Dot Porter dressed up her pup and Phyllis Stephen escorted "Santa" Magic from up stage right! An action that truly embodied the sprit of the Iowa Amateurs!

Our announcer, Jerry, provided the auctioneer services and several other amateurs served as bid "spotters." The spectators were quite receptive and in the end we netted a grand total of $290!

Thank you to everyone who helped with this project!

The raffle gelding was on display all weekend. He is a very sweet and gentle boy. We let him have the run of the arena for a few minutes so that folks could see what he was really made of. He enjoyed himself as did the audience members. Ticket sales soared! To date the total sales is in excess of $450! AND, we get 25% of that. So, please help out with the sales.

In addition to all the training that has been donated, Nutrena has donated a one year supply of feed for the gelding! Thank you, Bill Horton and Nutrena! This is another "chatter" point to help increase sales. If you want to "check out" tickets please let me know and I will get them to you. Several of the youth did that over the weekend and they sold many tickets.

This coming weekend we are going to the tack swap meet at Kirkwood to promote ticket sales. Deb Stalder is sharing her space with us. Thank you, Deb! So, there will be reps from District 2, the amateurs, and the youth (John, myself, and Zachary) to promote IQHA and the raffle. Please join us if you can to help sell these tickets.

Sue Reichert passed on a bag STUFFED with patterns to use in a "Pattern Book" fundraiser. Thank you!

The idea has also been brought up to put together a "cook" book. Any ideas on how to put a twist on this to make it a great fundraiser? This idea has loads of potential so please put your creativity caps on to make this a fun project.

Ok....that's all for now. But my intent is to keep all interested parties informed on a timely basis as to the amateur events. I've heard from several amateurs via e-mail and in person and am quite pleased at the enthusiasm out there. Let's keep the momentum going!

Amy
 

AQHA Gelding Raffle Update

It's been a busy couple of days since the banquet trying to regroup and get ready for the first show. The snowfall just adds to the challenge but it has given us some time to finalize issues with the horse raffle.

JR Reichert has generously donated a 2 year old bay roan gelding to District 2 for a raffle/fundraiser. Since my husband, John, is the district director and an amateur and I am his unofficial "secretary," he has decided to share the profits of this endeavor. Fifty per cent of the proceeds will go back to the district, 25% to IQHYA, and 25% to US! But he is expecting the youth and ourselves to help get tickets sold.

The gelding will be at the January show for all to see. Terry has donated a stall. Thank you, Terry! He is a sweet little guy and will enjoy all the attention. We will have a table set up by the arena as "raffle central." If you have time to "man" the table for any chunk of time let us know.

At the end of the show, the gelding goes home with the Roth brothers. There he will be broken out. From there he goes to L & S Performance horse for finishing touches. Both of these trainers have volunteered their time and resources to train and care for our project.
The least we can do is get the tickets sold!

If you attend open shows, take advantage of that! The tickets are only $5.00 each. Lots of folks will jump at the chance to own a nicely bred, eye catching, professionally trained gelding at such a great deal!

The drawing will be held during the open show at Freedom Fest.

Thanks, everyone! See ya this weekend!

Amy
 

LETTER FROM THE NEW AMATEUR CHAIR- AMY WARTHER

A new year has arrived and I am pleased to have been elected your new Iowa Amateur Chairman. Thank you to everyone who supported me and many thanks to all the members who attended the meeting on Saturday. It is evident from the attendance that there is a desire for the amateurs to grow and move forward as a group. This, too, is my goal for 2007.

We will meet briefly after the show on the 20th to gather materials for record keeping books and pattern books that will be used for fundraisers. More information will be provided at the show as to time and place for the meeting. Patty (she has a first name!) Knowlton has volunteered to help put these materials together.

Many items were donated to the Iowa Amateurs including Fido Fleece coats and human sweatshirts all with the Iowa Amateur logo. Since the temperature has dropped now is the time to auction these items. We will be having the auction on Saturday before the performance classes. Jean Chapman and Baxter have already agreed to model one set. We will need three more human/dog pairs to present the items. I am figuring that this should raise at least $250.00 for the group and should only take about 20 minutes of our time.

The caps and t-shirts can be used at another time. If you have ideas on this please let me know. And perhaps they can be given during the team tournament.

Team Tournament: This will be held during the state shows in May. Sue, Stacy, and Rhonda have agreed to manage the tournament again this year. Thank you!

And a reminder: This is open to ANY Iowa amateur. Please participate! It's a lot of fun and the ladies
always find great prizes. There is NO FEE for participation. Any questions on this please talk to one of the above ladies or myself.

Nancy Greene has agreed to keep track of the points again this year. Thank you!!! Please help her and yourself by reviewing the rules for points and keeping track of your points. Be sure your sponsorship of $15.00 has been paid. Points DO NOT count until this is paid.

Holly Benton has also agreed to do the awards again this year. She did a fantastic job with the awards this year and the change was appreciated. Thank you, Holly, for your dedication and terrific effort with the awards!

Colleen Conrad is also remaining on as Secretary/Treasurer. A HUGE thank you to Colleen for making the Silent Auction run smoothly.

Silent Auction: It was a great success again this year. It looks like totals are up from last year and that will be posted when available. Thank you to everyone who participated in the auction. It was a lot of fun!

Linda Collings has volunteered to manage the auction next year and she already has ideas on how to make it even more profitable and fun for us! Thank you, Linda!

Thank you to all the members for wanting to make the Iowa Amateurs a fun group to be a part of! I am anxious to "get the ball" rolling. Please don't hesitate to contact me for questions, concerns, or ideas.

Amy Warther

amybascom2340@msn.com

319-472-4114 home
612-201-0331 cell
 

DECEMBER 2006
 

SILENT AUCTION INFORMATION
 The silent auction will be taking place again at the 2007 IQHA Awards Banquet and Annual Meeting on Saturday, Jan. 13th, 2007 at the Gateway Hotel and Conference Center.   This is always a huge fundraiser for our youth and amateurs. Be thinking of what you can donate and join in on the fun! This year we are adding some prizes donated by District 2 for those who donate and the auction winners too! If you have questions please contact Amy Warther at 612-201-0331 (cell).

2006 IOWA AMATEURS YEAR END AWARD LIST

We’re trying something new for our awards this year! Due to many requests, we’ve decided to let everyone choose their own awards. Amateur Awards Chair, Holly Benton, should have contacted you with your “point total.” Please note – “points” does NOT mean the number of IQHA points that you earned this year! If you haven’t received your “total” yet, or if you have any questions about this process, please contact Holly at (515) 460-4463, or e-mail longdogs@excite.com.

To order your award, or if you have any questions about the prizes, please call Micki at the Tack Room in Waterloo: phone, 888-900-9342 or go to her website at: www.tackroomclassichorseapparel.com

 Please be aware that the association will not ship your award. If you will not be attending the awards banquet in Ames on January 13, 2007, you must make arrangements for someone to pick up your award for you.

 “Horsey” Clothes – please indicate color and size when ordering. Point values include “IQHA Amateurs 2006” lettering:

1.  Chill Buster Winter Blanket – 60pts

2. Chill Buster Winter Hood – 45 pts

3. Summer Sheet Blanket – 37 pts

4. Summer Show Cooler – 47 pts

5. Winter Show Cooler – 67 pts
6. Winter Turn Out Blanket (tuff-water proof-breathable) – 70 pts

7. Splint Boots – 18.5 pts

8. Bell Boots – 13.5 pts

9. Lycra Hood – 45 pts

10. Nylon Halter with IQHA on nose band – 22 pts

Monogramming is available on most items. Please add 15 points.

This will include 2-3 lines with your name, horse’s name, and event or title earned.

Human Clothes – please indicate color and size when ordering. Includes small “IQHA Amateurs” logo:

1. Adult Jean Jacket – call for price

2. Ladies hooded sweatshirt (white, baby blue, black, deep heather, navy, red) – 26 pts

3.  Unisex hooded sweatshirt (blue jean, blue spruce, crimson, flow flower, pepper sandstone) - 29 pts    

4. Basic unisex sweatshirt (cardinal, maroon, true blue, true navy, black) – 20 pts

Monogramming is available on most items. Please add 10 points.

This will include 2-3 lines with your name, horse’s name, and event or title earned.

Carriers/Totes – all are quilted. Point values include “IQHA Amateurs 2006” lettering:

1. Halter Bag – 21 pts

2. Western Saddle Carrier – 58.5 pts

3. English Saddle Carrier – 35.5 pts

4. Round Halter/Bridle Bag – 21.5 pts

5. Deluxe Halter /Bridle Bag – 22.5 pts

6. Padded Bridle Rack Bag – 45.5 pts

7. Garment Bag – 28.5 pts

8. Chap Bag – 28.5 pts

9. Wash Tote – 14.5 pts

10. Boot Bag (Western or English) – 21.5 pts

11. Show Blanket Carrier – 35.5 pts

12. Double Hat Carrier (with logo/not quilted) – 63 pts

13. Stall Bag w/6 hooks and removable blanket bar (not quilted) – 58.5 pts

Monogramming is available on most items. Please add 10 points.

This will include 2-3 lines with your name, horse’s name, and event or title earned.

Racks/Organizers:

1. Roll-Along Tack Caddy - holds two saddles, has a basket and 5 hook bridle rack with it – 178 pts

2. Tack Rack System Includes: 1-main frame, 2-saddle racks, 1-basket – 105 pts

3. Groom Cart – 97 pts

Tack:

1. Single Ear Work Headstall – 35 pts

2. Reins – 24 pts & 37 pts

3. Hay Bag – 17 pts

4. Work Saddle – call for specifics

Miscellaneous:

1. Horse Brush – 3-10 pts

2. Picture Frames (call for specifics) – 10 pts to 15 pts

3. Tall Padded Director Chair – 93.5 pts

4. Regular Padded Director Chair – 83.5 pts

5. Tall Director Chair (canvas back and bottom) – 78.5 pts

6. Regular Director Chair (canvas back and bottom) – 63.5 pts

7. Gift Certificate – Micki can order custom designed silver plated 3-piece buckle sets starting at 85 pts, and buckles starting at 135 pts. She can also order Kathy’s Show halters and headstalls. Call her for prices and specifics. If this will be shipped later than the banquet, please figure that into your price.

 Monogramming is available on the chairs. Please add 10 points.

This will include 2-3 lines with your name, horse’s name, and event or title earned.

MAY 2005

NEWS FROM THE IQHA AMATEUR CHAIR

2005 IQHA Amateur Dog Races

            Ladies and gentlemen…start your Corgis!

            The IQHA Amateurs are once again gearing up for their annual FUN-draiser, to be held on Thursday, June 9, during the 2005 Seven Day Run at the State Fairgrounds.  Once again, the West Arena will be transformed into “Doggy Daytona” as we hold the DOG RACES and DOG SHOW. This event was a big hit last year with both spectators and participants (two- and four-legged alike). We are hoping to make the 2005 edition even bigger and better than before!

Just as it was last year, anyone interested in participating will be asked to enter before the races begin. Entry forms will be available during the days prior to the event, as well as at the Races. Then, immediately before each race starts, dogs and their owners will be asked to take individual “hot laps” around the arena for spectators to view, and they will be sold in a Calcutta. The “buyer” of the winning dog in each race will receive 40 percent of the total money earned from that race’s Calcutta, and the owner of the champion pooch will receive 10 percent. Once again, prizes will be awarded to participants.

            This promises to be a fun activity for both participants and spectators, so be sure to mark it on your calendars!

            Schedule of events is as follows:

            11:30 am – noon: Bring dogs and entry forms to the West Arena entrance. Please bring your dog on a leash. There is no cost to enter the Dog Races, although donations are always welcome. Any funds gathered from entry donations will go towards the Animal Rescue League of Iowa.

            Noon: “Hot Laps” of entries, with Calcutta

                        Races immediately to follow:

1)      “Bantam Barkers” Puppy Race (Open to any puppy under 12 months of age)

2)      “Lil’ Smokies” Small dog division (Dogs 25 pounds or smaller, or leg length 4 inches or less)

3)      “Hot Hounds” Medium dog division (Dogs 26-50 pounds, or leg length 5-7 inches)

4)      “Big Barkers” Large dog division (Dogs 51 pounds and up, or legs longer than 7 inches long)

5)      NEW for 2005 – Human/Hound Relay: Throughout the week (and during the entry period prior to the race), people can nominate “teams” of dogs and their owners to compete together. At the races, these teams will be combined into groups of two humans and two dogs each. The groups will then compete against each other in a human/dog relay. (Rules to be announced at event, but bring your running shoes)

**If there are more than five dogs entered in any of the above races, we will split the race into “heats,” with the top two dogs from each heat advancing to the finals.

** Each entry will require a “pit crew” of two humans – one to release the dog at the start, and one to catch the dog at the end. If you and your dog came alone, we will recruit volunteers from the audience to help.

** Dogs will be running off-leash, so please do not bring any aggressive dogs to our fundraiser.

** You may run more than one dog in each race.

“Show” to follow races:

1)      Most Talented (Best Trick)

2)      “Double-take” (Dog/Owner Look Alike)

3)      Mutt Models (Cutest Dog)

Throughout the event, breeders are welcome to bring their puppies that they are offering for sale. We will have a “puppy parade” between events to give sellers a chance to showcase their furballs.

Also throughout the afternoon, representatives from the Animal Rescue League of Iowa will be present, providing information and answering questions on their shelter. The Animal Rescue League of Iowa is the state's largest shelter and the only Des Moines area shelter that never turns away an animal in need. ARL reps will have information on pets that are in need of good “forever” homes.

If you wish to pre-enter your dog, or if you have any questions, please e-contact Holly Benton at 515-460-4463 or e-mail longdogs@excite.com.

We are also looking for Amateur volunteers to help staff the event, so if you are going to be at the Run and willing to help out, please contact Holly at the above phone/e-mail. Also, last year we were blessed with the generosity of several individuals and businesses that donated prizes for the competition. If you would like to help in that way, please let Holly know. Thanks, and we’ll see you – and your dogs - on the ninth!

AQHA ANNOUNCED NEW CHANGES FOR NOVICE ELIGIBILITY
Click here to read the rule changes for the 2005 Year!

DECEMBER 2004

IQHA Amateur Committee News
Seasons Greetings to All!  The IQHA Banquet is just around the corner and we hope to see you all there!   The Amateur Committee will be having our annual meeting, and the evening festivities will include the presentation of the Year End Amateur Awards.  Congratulations to all that are Year-End Award Winners!!!  We are planning on having a Trainer Auction at the banquet as well.  Look for more information on the participating trainers online at www.iowaquarterhorse.com!
Christy Dicks, Amateur Committee ChaiR, christy@webwranglerdesign.com,  660-341-7299

Questions for Sue Spear

Name:  Sue Spear

Hometown:  Burlington, Iowa , married to husband Craig for 28 years.  Has two daughters, Tammy(Barry) and Emilee(Tom), along with 4 grand-children Blaise, Brennon, Taylor and Jaxen.

Web Site:  www.geocities.com/ssqrts

Occupation:  Sue is Technical Engineer in the Product Control Center at Case New Holland  in Burlington.

Skills and Talents:  Sue's favorite hobby outside of the horse show ring is cooking.  Her specialty is Italian Cuisine.

Horse Background:  As a child, Sue's family had a riding horse, just for fun.  She didn't start showing horses until later in life when she bought a weanling Paint colt for her daughter  Emilee  who was 13 at the time.  However, it was quickly determined that her daughter was allergic to horses, and would not be able to show the colt.  Sue then decided to take on the colt as a project for herself, and trained him for Halter and Western Pleasure.  Sue showed the Paint horse at open shows and began acquiring broodmares on the side.  She began breeding these mares and showing and winning with their foals at local futurities.   It was about Five years ago, she decided to purchase a stud fee through the Iowa Breeder's Futurity Stallion Auction, and it was through this foal that Sue  met her current trainer, Nancy Mikoda.  Through an acquaintence she contacted Nancy to fit her baby.  Nancy helped Sue get started showing on the AQHA circuit, and Sue has loved the experience!

Tell us about your favorite horse:  Sue's favorite horse is Exquisite Beauty aka "Mimi".  Mimi is a 2001 AQHA mare by Sir Cool Skip.  Sue and this mare have quite the show record including the following:  2002 and 2003 AQHA World Show Qualifier in Amateur Halter, Amateur Register Of Merit, 2002 Reserve Champion of Iowa, 5 Grand Championships, 5 Reserve Championships, 6 Open Points, 18 Amateur Points, 2003 Winter Wonderland Circuit Champion, and was the 2003 Iowa Show Circuit Champion.   2003 Iowa Grand Champion Mare Open and Amateur.  Mimi is Sue's favorite horse because she is the first horse that Sue showed regularly on the AQHA show circuit.  This mare  has  also kept Sue and her trainer, Nancy Mikoda, on their toes because of her quirky personality!  Sue says that they never quite knew what kind of mood the mare would be  in  on show day!!  Now retired from the show ring, Mimi will be a first time mom in 2005.  A mid-February foal by the APHA Stallion, Extra Options, is eagerly awaited.

Tell us about your current horse:  Sue's newest prospect is a 2004 AQHA stallion, Playgirls Cashin In aka "Cash".  This young stallion by Playgirls Conclusion and out of Clues PJ by Clue Times Two, has already proved himself in the show ring.  In September, the colt won the Iowa Breeders Early Colt Class and Iowa Breeders Amateur Class!   Along with that he won the Iowa Breeder Limited Exhibitor's Class.  He also took home a Grand and Reserve Championship!  Besides having a winning record, this colt is a very quiet, nice baby. Sue is very excited about showing "Cash" at the IQHA shows  next year.  Watch for Sue and Cash in the Yearling Stallion classes!! 

Best Horse Show Experience:  Sue's biggest thrill while showing horses was winning the 2004 Iowa Futurity Extravaganza with Playgirls Cashin In!!

OCTOBER 2004

IQHA Amateur Committee News

Hello to all!  The 2004 show season has officially come to an end in Iowa!  The IQHA Futurity and AQHA Shows, held the last weekend of September, brought the show season to an end.  Thank you to everyone for their help with making the futurity a success!  A special thank you to Barb Delf for all of her help with making the 2004 Iowa Futurity the most prosperous in many years! 

            With the show season over, it is now time to turn our attention to the IQHA Banquet!  Year end awards will be ordered soon, so if you have any ideas for awards, please e-mail them to christy@webwranglerdesign.com.  It is also time to start thinking about the election of committee heads and subcommittee heads for the Amateur committee.  Also, we will vote on the Amateur Sportsmanship awards at the Annual Banquet and Meeting, so if you have a nomination, please contact the Amateur Chairperson. 

            Christy Dicks, Amateur Committee Chair
             christy@webwranglerdesign.com

            660-341-7299

MEET BRENDA BALL!!!

Hometown:  Drakesville, Iowa

E-mail address:  dnbball@netins.net

Occupation:  Brenda is a cosmetologist and works at Cutter’s Lane in Bloomfield, Iowa.  Her favorite part about being a cosmetologist is being able to meet new people that she may not have had the opportunity to meet before, as well as being able to catch up with friends/clients on a regular basis. 

Skills and Talents:  Brenda has sewn her own jackets for Showmanship classes and made blouses for Walk Trot.  She likes to call it a “…working talent in progress…”.  Brenda also used to sing with her family band.

Tell us about your favorite horse:  Brenda’s favorite horse was a blood bay AQHA mare, Miss Bar Jiggers, aka Jiggs.  Jiggs was 20 years old when she and her daughter Shelby acquired her.  This mare is her favorite horse because she was so dependable and trustworthy.  Jiggs was also trained to do nearly every event!  Jiggs was also a bit of a Houdini, as she would let herself out of her stall to eat grass.

Tell us about your current horse:  Brenda has just retired her current show horse, Super Sass Crash, aka Duchess, from the show ring to the broodmare pasture.  Duchess is expecting a foal by Last Detail next spring.  Brenda won’t be out of the show ring for long though- she already has a new prospect!  Zips Junior Iron, a bay grandson of Mr. Rusty Zipper and Natural Iron, is the newest addition to her barn.  This May yearling already stands 15 hands at his hip, and Brenda looks forward to showing him in Showmanship and Hunt Seat events next fall!

Best Horse Show Experience:  Brenda’s first and best horse show experience was the 2004 Seven Day Run where she made her debut in Novice Amateur Showmanship and Novice Amateur Walk-Trot with Super Sass Crash.  But don’t think this was her first time at the Seven Day Run- Brenda has enjoyed attending the show for several years, helping her daughter, Shelby, show in the youth division as well as helping with the AQHYA events whenever possible.

SEPTEMBER 2004

MEET KATHRYN DONAHOO

Hometown:  Peterson, Iowa

E-mail address:  kathoo@evertek.net

Occupation:  Kathryn is the owner of Kathryn’s Kreation’s, a company that creates custom show clothes.  She became interested in making this a business when she began creating show outfits for her daughter, Stephanie.  Her favorite part of creating outfits is putting on the designs and adding crystals, while the most challenging part is getting the proper fit.  Kathryn also helps her husband with the grain farm in the field during planting and harvest as well as raising hogs and of course, American Quarter Horses.

Tell us about your favorite horse:  Kathryn’s favorite horse is her broodmare, Rusty Delusions.  This mare has carried nearly her entire family to wins.  This mare has had seven foals, seven years in a row.  Kathryn loves this horse because she has owned her the longest and loves her personality.  AQHA SHOW RECORD?

Tell us about your current horse:  Kathryn’s current show horse is Sheza Fancy Dee, a ????mare, by Dandys Dee Bar.  This mare was originally her daughter’s show horse and now the mother and daughter combination share.  Look for them in  Showmanship, Horsemanship, and Pleasure!  Kathryn said that her favorite class in which to show is Showmanship. 

Best Horse Show Experience:  Showing Rusty Delusions at the Silver Classic in Novice Amateur and winning under both judges in Western Pleasure because this was the first big show that they went to and because they were showing in the Ak-Sar-Ben colesium. 

What events/fundraising/ social  would you like to see the Amateur Committee hold?

JUNE 2004

The Iowa Quarter Horse Association Amateur Committee held the 2004 Fun Dog Races and Dog Show as a fundraiser for year end awards.  The event was held on Thursday, June 10, 2004, which was the off-day at the Iowa Show Circuit Seven Day Run.  Dog Owners nominated their dog for a $25 entry fee which allowed them to compete in as many events as they wanted.  Entries in the Dog Races were paraded before attendees prior to racing.  By-Standers bid on a racer through the cal-cutta.  The winning bettor was awarded 40% of the total money earned from the cal-cutta, and the winning dog received 10% of the total money earned from the cal-cutta.  The following classes were offered:

1.      Puppy Race

2.      Small Dog Race

3.      Medium Dog Race

4.      Large Dog Race

5.      Puppy Parade (Puppies for Sale)

6.      Best Trick

7.      Dog/Owner Look-Alike

8.      Best Puppy

9.      Cutest

Donations from numerous businesses in Iowa were awarded as prizes to first through third in each event.  Prizes were awarded to other participants as well.    The Iowa Quarter Horse Association Amateur Committee would like to thank the following businesses for donating prizes to the 2004 Fun Dog Races:  Sibley Vet Clinic (Bag of Dog Food), Petway of Spencer Iowa (Greenies Dog Chews), Nelson's Premix and Bet Supply of Storm Lake, Iowa (Flys-Off Ointment), The Dog House of Sheldon, Iowa (Two bags of Holistix chews, Bunny Booda Chew Toy and Cow Booda Chew Toy), Longdogs Creative of Melvin, Iowa (One Free Ad Design), Holly Benton (Tote Bag), Tristan Lovenduski (Large Dog Bed) and Sugar Creek Supply (www.sugarcreeksupply.com) (Reflective Pet Tags and Set of Dog Clippers).  A special thanks goes out to Sue Grenko-Finke of Main Street Quarter Horses and her dog Buddy for donating $150 for use in the Dog Races and Dog Show.  This donation was used to purchase the prizes which were given to participants in the dog show.  With the help of these donations, the Iowa Quarter Horse Association Amateur Committee was able to give away nearly $450 in prizes to our participants!  The Iowa Quarter Horse Association Amateur Committee would also like to thank the following people for their help with the dog races:  Barb Delf of Custom Tails (announcer), Wade Ellerbroek of Ellerbroek and Associates (auctioneer), Tristan Lovenduski ( desk help), Brenda Ball (desk help), Tami Paris (dog show judge), Deb Hansch (dog show judge), Greg Steffen (desk help) and to all others who helped make this event possible.  We would also like to thank all participants and bidders for their help in making this event a great success!!!

Pictures from the Fun Dog Races and Dog Show can be seen on the Iowa Quarter Horse Association website after June 25th, 2004. 

2004 FUN DOG RACE AND SHOW RESULTS

Best Trick Contest-
1st Place- Chubbers and his puppy treat machine.  The judges said that this trick was the most unique.  Chubbers is owned by Sharon Dietz.
2nd Place- Oreo and his horse leading, high five, and playing dead routine.
3rd Place- Rio and his sit and walk on hind feet. Rio is owned by Brenda Musal.

Dog / Owner Look-A-Like Contest
1st Place- Molly (owned by Gary Werner)
2nd Place- Maggie and Kayla
3rd Place- Spud

Best Puppy
1st Place- Allyssa Simmons and Chipmunk
2nd Place- Chip and Hilary Hansch
3rd Place- Spud

Cutest Dog
1st Place- Annie
2nd Place- Samantha and Gwen Reichert
3rd Place- Domino and Paul Bunce

Christy White of Sugar Creek Supply donated a set of Pet Trimmers which the Amateurs will be auctioning off later this year.  Several people have already purchased $2 raffle tickets on this $90 value item!!  Watch for opportunities to join this raffle soon!

APRIL 2004

The Amateur Committee of the Iowa Quarter Horse Association looks forward to the return of the DOG RACES and DOG SHOW at the 2004 Iowa Show Circuit Seven Day Run in June.  This event will be held as a fundraiser for the Iowa Amateur Committee.  Entries in the Dog Races will be paraded before attendees prior to racing.  This is your chance to purchase a racer through a cal-cutta.  The winning bettor will be awarded 40% of the total money earned from the cal-cutta, and the winning dog will receive 10% of the total money earned from the cal-cutta.  Prizes will be awarded to other participants as well.  So be sure to catch all the fun on Thursday, June 10, 2004 at Noon in the West Arena.  This is the off day of the Seven Day Run, so let your horses relax and put your dog to the challenge!

            The Dog Derby and Dog Show will run as follows:

            11:30 AM-Noon          Bring your dogs and entry forms to the West Arena .                                                     entrance gate.  Please bring your dog on a leash.

            Noon                           Dog Races with Dog Show to follow

                                                            Events

1.      Puppy Race

2.      Small Dog Race

3.      Medium Dog Race

4.      Large Dog Race

5.      Puppy Parade (Puppies for Sale)

6.      Best Trick

7.      Dog/Owner Look-Alike

8.      Best Puppy

9.      Cutest

Rules: 

            Races:

·        If there are more than 5 dogs entered in any one race, the race will be split into heats.  First and Second place winners from each heat will then advance to the final race.

·        Two people are needed during the race, one to hold the dog at the start and one to catch the dog at the other end.  If two people are unavailable, we will try to recruit volunteers form the audience.  Dogs will be running off leash, so please do not bring any aggressive dogs to our fundraiser.

·        You may run more than one dog in each race.

Show:

·        A separate entry form will need to be filled out for each event entered.

Entries will be taken on the day of the show, or you can pre-enter by sending the following information to Christy Dicks at christy@webwranglerdesign.com.  We are also looking for Amateur volunteers to help staff this event, so contact the same e-mail address to volunteer!

Entry Form:

Name of Owner_______________________________________________

Name of Dog  _______________________________________________

Dog’s Age_______                 

Phone ______________________________________________

Class Entered _____________

Please tell us a few things about your entry so the announcer has something to speak about during the event!

1.___________________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________.

2. _________________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________________.

3.___________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________.

  Visit the Iowa Quarter Horse Association web site at www.iowaquarterhorse.com to get show bills and other information about upcoming events!

Christy Dicks,

Amateur Committee Chair

christy@webwranglerdesign.com

APRIL'S AMATEUR SPOTLIGHT

Name:  Lori Mennenga
Town:  Meservey, Iowa
e-mail address:  lorikmennenga@hotmail.com
Web Site:  none
Occupation:  Deputy Sheriff, Hancock County, Iowa
Skills & Talents:  ??  I'm coordinator for the Trail Ride this year??
I am a member of the Horsemen of Iowa, Garner Saddle Club, Iowa State Sheriff's & Deputies Assn., National Sheriff Association.
I show in the Novice Amateur Division in Showmanship, Trail, Horsemanship and recently purchased a new horse which I will show in Western Pleasure and Walk-trot.  My family also does a lot of trail riding and camping with our horses.

Best horse show experience?  When I was showing Trixie in trail at the Mason City Show and a thunderstorm blew up.  As we were approaching the bridge obstacle, the entry gate blew out of the gateperson's hands and came swinging toward us.  Trixie just stood her ground and looked at it.  Then amidst the thunder and lightning, the show management decided to shut the large overhead door, just as we were trying to negotiate the gate obstacle.  Again, Trixie just stood there and took it all in stride.  I was so proud of her for not coming unglued through all that!!  I don't even remember what we placed!
 

THIS MONTH'S AMATEUR SPOTLIGHT

Name: Holly Benton

Town: Ames, IA

E-Mail Address: longdogs@excite.com

Occupation: student (Master's program in Journalism at ISU)/freelance web
designer (longdogs web design)/horseholder/groom/errand gal

Skills and Talents: I enjoy designing websites and advertisements, and I have
received recognition on both the national and state levels for my writing.
Whether this is an indication of talent or just luck is yet to be determined.

With what other organizations are you involved? Iowa Ranch Horse Association -
webmaster and 2004 Yearbook designer

What horse events do you compete or participate in? I team rope (heel) and also
will be showing a halter horse this year (yearling gelding) at AQHA shows; I
also try to compete at the Iowa Ranch Horse shows whenever possible.

Best Horse Show Experience: Whenever I catch my steer, get my dally and don't
lose any fingers, it's a good day.

 

January 30, 2004

   The Amateur Committee held its Annual Meeting on January 24, 2004 at the Four Points By Sheraton in Des Moines, Iowa.  See the minutes from this meeting below.  Also be sure to read about this month's Amateur Spotlight members- Colleen and Mike Conrad. 

Minutes from the IQHA Amateur Committee Meeting

January 24, 2004  11AM    Four Points By Sheraton   Des Moines, Iowa

The meeting was called to order at 11:10 AM by chairperson, Christy Dicks.

Amateur members were welcomed to the meeting.  Christy Dicks announced that an e-mail sheet was circulating the room.  The chairperson also gave a Year-In-Review report.  This report included the Cow Poke Contest which was held at the 7 Day Run in Des Moines.  The event brought in $3200 for the IQHA Amateur Committee.  Thanks was given to those who participated and helped make the Cow Poke Contest possible.  A special thank-you was given to Dr. Todd Roseberry who donated his earnings ($1300) back to the IQHA Amateur Committee.  Christy Dicks also mentioned that the IQHA website now allows members to market their websites for free.  Interested amateurs should send an e-mail to the web master at christy@webwranglerdesign.com. 

The financial report was given by Amateur treasurer, Colleen Conrad.

Amateur member and Ex-Officio President of the Iowa Quarter Horse Association, Wade Ellerbroek addressed the issue of contributing 10 percent of the Amateur Committee’s account balance to the IQHA Futurity.  He made the motion that $900.00 be contributed to the Futurity Fund for added money.  A unanimous ballot was cast.

Committee Reports from the 2003 year:

Team Tournament-Sue Reichert and Terri Warren.  Sue Reichert stated that the event was a success.  Every party who participated received an award. 

Year End Awards- Holly Benton.  Holly Announced that the awards had arrived and that she was excited about the awards that we were able to purchase.  She asked if there was a logo which had been designed for the Amateurs.  It was mentioned that a logo had been designed, and that the Amateur chairperson would look to see if this logo could be utilized for next year’s awards.

Silent Auction:  Christy Dicks for Bonnie and Brenda Musal.  Christy reported that the auction was taking place during Saturday.  Bonnie and Brenda were unable to attend, but the auction sheets were in place and those donating could easily fill them out.  She asked for volunteers to help gather money at the end of the night.  Rosalie Carlson volunteered. 

Queens Contest- Christy Dicks.  Christy reported that the event had not been held.  A discussion followed as to if there was interest in holding the event.  Wade Ellerbroek reported on the Board Discussion.  It was decided that the Amateur Chairperson would contact the districts to see if they were interested in holding the Queen Contests fun by the IQHA Amateur Committee.

Old Business:

Non Pro Futurity:  Barb Delf reported that Amateurs are needed to help with Sunday.  Steve Goretska reported that Amateur members are needed to help with taking entries and other office help on Thursday afternoon.

Fundraising:  The Cow Poke Contest and the Silent Auction were discussed.

New Business:

Wade Ellerbroek had a new fundraising idea which could be used at the Banquet and Meal on January 24, 2004.  The fundraiser would be to pass a clipper bag to every table.  Each table would contribute money to the bag.  After the meal, the clipper bag would be auctioned off to the highest bidder.  Wade asked for two volunteers to bring the clipper bag to each table.  Holly Benton and Terri Warren volunteered to help. 

Raising sponsorships fees for Amateur members was discussed.  It was decided that fees would not be raised. 

Fundraising efforts for the 2004 year were discussed.  It was decided to hold a major fundraising event the 7 Day Run.  The event will be a competition of dog and human strength and endurance, and may be a revival of the IQHA Amateur Dog Races which were held in the past.  Holly Benton volunteered to help with this event.

Sue Reichert motioned that “If a show committee combines an Amateur Select Class when there is only one or two entries in the class, then state points will count like national points.”  The motion was seconded by Brian Hamrick.  Discussion followed.  The vote was taken and passed by unanimous ballot. 

Committee Chairs for 2004

Silent Auction:  Bonnie Musal

Team Tournament:  Terri Warren, Sue Reichert, and Stacy Reichert

Year End Awards:  Holly Benton and Christy Dicks

Futurity Awards:  Barb Delf

A new committee for Futurity Help was added.  The responsibilities of the committee are to arrange gate help and point tabulation help for Sunday, and to have office help available on Thursday and Friday. 

Futurity Help:  Brian Hamrick  

Voting for the Amateur Sportsmanship Awards followed.  The following nominations from the floor were received:  Novice Amateur- Melissa Neumann and Terri Warren;  Amateur- Craig Warren, Holly Benton, Jeneen Ferguson, and Bill Horton;  Select Amateur- Judy Perry.

Nominations for Amateur Chairperson and Vice Chairperson were taken.  Stacy Reichert nominated that the chairs remain as they stand currently.  Seconded by Wade Ellerbroek.  Sue Reichert motioned that nominations cease and Dallas Rozell seconded.  Barb Delf motioned to cast a unanimous ballot.  This motion was passed.  The Amateur Chairperson for 2004 will be Christy Dicks and the Co-Chairperson will be Colleen Conrad.

Open Discussion followed.  Amateur members introduced themselves.  A drawing was held for a stay at The Farm House Bed and Breakfast (www.farmhousemissouri.com).  The winners were newlyweds Kirk and Ronda Sherwood. 

Barb Delf motioned that the meeting be adjourned.  Sue Reichert seconded the motion.  The meeting adjourned at 12:45 PM. 

Post Meeting:

Results of Amateur Sportsmanship Voting

Novice Amateur:  Terri Warren

Amateur:  Holly Benton

Select Amateur:  Judy Perry 

 JANUARY AMATEUR SPOTLIGHT

Meet this month's Iowa Quarter Horse Association Featured Amateur Members:  Colleen and Michael Conrad.  If you could like to be featured in an upcoming spotlight, send an e-mail to christy@webwranglerdesign.com. 

Name:Colleen Conrad
Town:Marengo IA
E-Mail Address:chcqtrhorses@yahoo.com
Occupation:Administrative Assistant with the Clear
Creek Amana Community School District
Skills and Talents:
With what other organizations do you involved? Iowa
County 4-H Committee; Iowa County Fairboard
What horse events to you compete or participate in?
Western Pleasure; Hunter Under Saddle; Showmanship;
Horsemanship

Name: Michael Conrad
Town: Marengo Iowa
E-Mail Address: cmconrad@iowatelecom.net
Occupation: Truckdriver for Heartland Coop Inc.
What horse events to you compete or participate in?
Lounge Line; Walk-trot

 

December 16, 2003

Meet this month's Iowa Quarter Horse Association Featured Amateur Member:  Nancy Greene.  If you could like to be featured in an upcoming spotlight, send an e-mail to christy@webwranglerdesign.com. 

June 11, 2003

                    Hello to all the Iowa Amateur members!!  Thank you to everyone who helped with the “Iowa’s Best Cowpoke Competition” during the Seven Day Run in Des Moines.  The competition consisted of an obstacle course of stacking hay, scooping manure, and delivering mail, - all while riding a stick horse.  The event was a huge success thanks to the help of many bidders and trainers!   Competitors in the event were Mark Chapman, Ed Becker, Andy Lockwood, Curt Ferguson, Bill Horton, Lia Ploog, Jennifer Sonne, Doug Ross, Ray Lower, Anna Voss, Shannon Vroegh, Holly Benton, Danielle Burns, Mark Baus, Andy Cochran, and Tom Perry.  The contestants were calcutted prior to the event.  40% of the funds were returned to the winning bidder, 10% were given to the winning competitor, and the remaining 50% went to the Amateur Committee.  Congratulations to the winning competitor, Mark Baus!  The winning bidder was Dr. Todd Roseberry, who graciously donated his winnings back to the Amateur committee!  Thank you to all who helped with this event!!!!!  See the list of all competitors, bidders, and bids by clicking here!

            A pizza party meeting was also held during the Seven Day Run.  There was discussion concerning fundraisers for next year, including a raffle.  In addition, the possibility of raising the cost of Amateur sponsorships was discussed.  A rate increase would require less fundraising efforts in order to provide year end awards.  It was also decided that the Amateur committee would not put on a Showmanship classic at the Freedom Festival Horse Shows in 2003.     

April 18, 2003

            Hello Amateur members!  I hope that all is going well for you and your equine friends!  Spring has arrived and it’s time to make plans for this year’s upcoming Amateur events.  I would like to start a monthly e-mail newsletter so that we can all keep in touch better, so if you have e-mail addresses for other Amateur members, please forward this information on to them and let them know to contact me so that I can add them to the list!  I would like to get to know each of you better, so I would appreciate it if you would take 5 minutes to complete the questions contained in this e-mail.  This will help in planning events for this year!   Also included in this e-mail are proposed events for the year.   These have yet to be approved by the show committees, but I need your ideas for making them better.  Fundraising is very important to our organization!  If we want to have end of the year awards, we all have to help with fundraising.  It would be great if our organization could spend more time with social events, so if you have an idea for an event or outing for the Amateur group, please send it to me!  A big thank-you goes out to Terri Warren for her superior work on the Amateur Team Tournament!  I look forward to hearing your ideas and thoughts soon! You can reach me at 660-341-7299 or e-mail at christy@webwranglerdesign.com.  

Survey

Name:

Town:

E-Mail Address:

Web Site:

Occupation:

Skills and Talents:

With what other organizations do you involved?

What horse events to you compete or participate in?

Best Horse Show Experience:

What events or ideas would you like to see implemented this year?

What ideas do you have for fundraising?

Are there any of the above questions which you do NOT want posted on the web site?

News from the Annual Meeting at the IQHA Banquet

held on January 18, 2003 at the Hotel at Gateway Center.

The Annual Meeting of the Iowa Quarter Horse Association Amateur Committee was called to order at 11:10 a.m. on January 18, 2003, Gateway Centre, Ames, Iowa by Colleen Conrad, Amateur Chairman.

A review of the 2002 Annual Amateur Meeting minutes as printed in the March, 2002 Iowa Quarter Horse Magazine was approved by a motion from Sue Voss and seconded by Lee Robertson. Passed unanimously

The Amateur Committee Financial Report and 2003 budget was reviewed. Cleo Craven made a motion, seconded by Mary Greenly to approve the financial information as presented. Passed unanimously

2002 Committee reports were given as follows:

Planner – Tammy Elston, Chairman, absent. Colleen Conrad reported that since Tammy’s move to Texas no planner was printed. Three sponsors have paid their 2003 donation and this will need to be address under old business.

Cap Auction – Holly Benton, Co-Chairman reported the Cap Auction was held at the futurity. The Cap Auction raised $392.00. Also noted was the additional tack and horse supply items that where donated by The Tack Room. Each cap purchaser received a bonus item for purchasing a cap. Discussion followed that the Cap Auction would be dropped as a fund raiser at this time.

Team Tournament – Terri Warren, Chairman, reported that 14 teams participated in the event at the State Show in May. All prizes where donated.

Year End Awards – Sue Reichert, Chairman,  absent. Colleen reported that approximately $4028.00 was spent on year end awards. Once again several suppliers offered items at wholesale prices to the awards committee.

Silent Auction – Mary Berryman, Chairman, absent.  Colleen reported that the 2002 Auction raised $1204.50 for the Amateurs. A reminder the silent auction is going on today.

Queen’s Committee – Christy Dicks, Chairman reported that a proposal was taken to the board with no action at this time. Additional information and an addition of a youth representative was requested.

Showmanship Classic – Christy Dicks, Chairman reported that they did not hold the event but did put a plan together and would be considering it for this year.

Leadline Activity – Stacy Reichert, Chairman, reported they did not hold the event but had done some planning and would continue to work on the activity 

Old Business:         

Non Pro Futurity – The futurity financial information was reviewed.  Colleen Conrad reported on the board meeting following the futurity. The Non Pro Futurity will now be an Amateur Futurity so that classes can be shown concurrently with the respective AQHA classes. The IQHA Executive Office will handle taking the entries for the Non-Pro Futurity. There is a new payment schedule and Non Pro limited classes have been dropped at this time. The Amateur Committee will still be responsible for obtaining or purchasing awards for the Amateur Futurity classes due to the fact that the Amateur Committee receives sponsorship money for all amateurs who show the futurity. A discussion followed concerning the youth being dropped from being able to show in the futurity classes. Colleen reported that this arrangement will save in the number of judges that will be needed to judge the AQHA Show/IQHA Futurity. Colleen also suggested that the amateur should talk with their district directors and the IQHA officers to express their concerns because they are the people who make these type of decisions.

2002 Fundraisers  - Colleen reported that Jennifer and Bill Horton put together a very successful fundraiser at the March Cedar Rapids show. The Beach Baby Contest raised $1,149.00 for the Amateurs. She also reported that at the April show a pancake breakfast sponsored by Nuterna and Hi-Qual Manufacturing raised $46.00 for the Amateurs. Mary Berryman was absent so Colleen reported that the painting raffle raised $360.00.

Planner 2003 – Colleen reported earlier that the Planner was not produced this year. Discussion was held on what to do about the money already collected from sponsors. Kerry Kucera made a motion, seconded by Christy Dicks to cancel producing the planner. Passed unanimously.

      Rosalie Carlson made a motion seconded by Dave Nemmers to refund the money to these sponsors and send a thank you to them in regards to continued support.  Passed unanimously.

New Business:

Discussion was held on possible fundraisers. Colleen reminded the group that for a balanced budget $1200.oo would need to be in addition to the silent auction.

Christy Dicks talked to the group about a “Cowboys Best Contest” – it would be an obstacle course- timed event. No funds would be needed to have the event and the entries could be calcuttaed as a fundraiser. She already has plans and will continue to put something together.

The following committees will be in place for 2003

      Silent Auction – Bonnie and Brenda Musal, Co-Chairman

      Team Tournament –Terry Warren and Sue Reichert – Co-Chairman

      Year-End Awards – Holly Benton, Chairman

      Futurity Awards – Lee Robertson, Cleo Craven and Jan Nelson

Colleen told the group that Sheridon Cook is looking for volunteers for helping at Horse Fair. Colleen also introduced Amateur, Lori Mennenga, as the Recreational Riding Program Chairman for the IQHA and Amateur, Christy Dick, as the IQHA Web Site Webmaster.

Colleen asked for nominations from the floor for the Novice Amateur Sportsmanship Award in addition to the nominations received prior to the meeting of Lori Robertson and Vickie Meese. Rosalie Carlson moved nominations ceased, seconded by Jeff Hughes.

Colleen then asked for nominations from the floor for the Amateur Sportsmanship Award in addition to the nominations received prior to the meeting of Terry Gallentine, Katie Pidgeon, and Janeen Ferguson. Lisa Darby was nominated by Christy Dicks, seconded by Holly Benton. Holly Benton made a motion for nominations cease, seconded by Jeff Hughes.

Colleen asked for nomination from the floor for the Amateur Select Sportsmanship Award in addition to the nominations received prior to the meeting of Nancy Robertson and Cleo Craven. Christy Dicks made a motion that nominations cease seconded by Jeff Hughes.

Voting took place by ballot and results will be read at the banquet this evening.

Election of 2003 Chairman/Vice Chairman: Colleen asked for nominations. Lee Robertson nominated Colleen Conrad, Colleen declined. Lori Robertson nominated Terri Warren, Terri declined. Sue Voss nominated Christy Dicks. Lee Roberston moved nominations cease, Seconded by Sue Reichert. Colleen volunteered to serve at Vice –Chairman. Unanimous vote to approve Christy Dicks, Chairman and Colleen Conrad, Vice-Chairman..

Sue Reichert made a motion for adjournment at 12:07 p.m., seconded by Jill Voss.

Meeting Notes by Lori Mennenga

Minutes submitted by Colleen Conrad, Amateur Vice-Chairman

Sportsmanship tabulating:

            Novice – Lori Robertson

            Amateur – Terry Gallentine

            Amateur Select – Cleo Craven