The MFTHBA Board of Directors held its March meeting on Monday, March 17, 2025, approving several key items and updates.

• New Affiliate Approved: The board approved the Southern Fox Trotters as an official MFTHBA affiliate. We welcome this new organization and encourage members in the southern U.S. to support its growth. More information will be shared soon.
• Committee Approvals: The board approved new members for the Trail Obstacle, Membership, Show, and 501(c)(3) committees.
• Sponsorship Program Expansion: The board approved a proposal from the Sponsorship Committee to sell vinyl banners as an additional way to support MFTHBA shows. The committee is also exploring expanding this opportunity to events such as National Trail Rides. For more details, contact Calvin Chambers.
• Spring Show Schedule Updates:
  • Ladies and Men’s Classes will return to 18 & Over.
  • Out of State Classes will now be A & B, aligning with the Celebration’s structure.
  • The updated show schedule will be posted soon.
• Versatility Championship Criteria: The board approved updated criteria for the High Point Novice Versatility Horse World Championship, including a tie-breaker system.
• Contracts Approved: Several contracts were approved, including:
  • Showgrounds bathroom cleaning
  • Septic pumping services
  • Golf cars rental for the MFTHBA shows
  • Water sales contract
• DQP Program & Penalty Structure Updates: The board approved an updated penalty structure proposed by DQP Coordinator Mark Holifield. Additionally, the USDA announced that proposed changes to the inspection program will not take effect this year, meaning the traditional DQP program will remain in place for 2025. MFTHBA is seeking additional DQPs—please contact Mark Holifield or the office if interested.
• Check Signing Policy Update: The board revised the check signing policy:
  • Checks of $500 or less now require only one signature.
  • Checks over $500 will still require two signatures.

Upcoming Events

• MFTHBA Workday at the Showgrounds: March 27-29. Contact Roy Harms for details.
• Indiana Fox Trotters at the Indiana Equine Roundup: March 27-29 in Cloverdale, Indiana.

Minutes from this meeting will be available on the members-only site after approval at the next board meeting.