The MFTHBA Board of Directors held its regular business meeting on July 21, 2025. The meeting was livestreamed for members who wished to follow along. Below is a general summary of the board’s actions. Official minutes will be posted in the Members Only section of the website once they are approved at the August meeting.

• Membership and Registry Update

Tami Jo Summerhill provided a report on membership and registry progress for 2025. Our membership goal for the year is to add 500 new members. As of the end of June, we have already surpassed last year’s total membership. We now need just 377 additional members to meet our goal. Members are encouraged to help grow our community by inviting friends, family, and fellow Fox Trotter enthusiasts to join. Membership directly supports the promotion, protection, and progress of our breed.

On the registry side, our goal is to increase horse registrations by 15% over last year. As of the end of June, we are already 69% of the way toward achieving that goal. These numbers are promising and reflect the growing enthusiasm and commitment within our MFTHBA community.

• Strategic Plan Update

Wayne Goodman provided an update on the Programs section of the MFTHBA Strategic Plan. A key highlight was the continued growth of the Fox Trot America program. As of this meeting, 35 new horses have been enrolled this year—putting us well on track to reach the 2025 goal of 100 new participants. Region 8 is leading the way with 15 of those new horses. Members interested in participating in this program are encouraged to visit the MFTHBA website for more information.

• Spring Show Update

The board was pleased to report that this year’s Spring Show saw a 20% increase in class entries compared to 2024. Entries rose from 464 in 2024 to 556 in 2025, with 155 individual horses entered. The increase reflects the growing participation and energy surrounding our events, and we appreciate everyone who contributed to the show’s success.

• Judges Committee Actions

At the recommendation of the Judges Committee, the board approved issuing new and grandfathered judges’ cards to several individuals. These approvals help ensure we maintain a strong pool of qualified judges for our shows and events.

• Reining Rule Change Proposal

The board approved the posting of proposed rule changes related to Reining classes, which the Versatility Committee submitted. These proposed updates will be made available soon on the website for member review and feedback.

• New Youth Class for the Celebration

A request from the Show Committee to modify the eligibility for the Youth Jockey Change class was approved. The class will now be open to youth ages 17 and under, rather than starting at age 9. This update broadens participation and reflects our continued commitment to youth involvement in MFTHBA events. The new class will debut at the 2025 World Show and Celebration.

• Approval of Previously Posted Rule Changes

Two rule changes previously posted for the required 60-day comment period were approved by the board. Both originated from the Versatility Committee. The first corrects a contradiction regarding the use of two hands in cattle classes. The second formally adds the Limited Working Cow Horse class to the rule book. Both changes will take effect on January 1, 2026.

• 2026 MFTHBA Catalog

The board approved the bid from Ozark Horse Trader to design and print the 2026 MFTHBA Catalog. This vendor produced the 2025 Catalog and submitted a bid with no increase in cost for the upcoming year.

• Registry Fee Adjustment

A gap in the registry fee schedule was addressed. In past years, the fee for moving a pony from temporary to permanent registration had been removed. Going forward, individuals making this change will only be responsible for the standard reprint fee.

• Arena Light Replacement Project

As previously shared, the lights on the main arena sustained damage due to severe weather, including hail, wind, and rain. The fixtures must now be replaced. After reviewing multiple bids, the board selected one that meets our needs and stays within our projected budget. Thanks to the generosity of MFTHBA members, funding commitments have been secured to cover fixtures on 4.5 of the six poles. Approximately $4,500 is still needed to complete the project. The goal is to finish fundraising and install the new lights before the 2025 Celebration. A restricted fund has been established for this project. Members interested in contributing should contact the MFTHBA office. A sincere thank you goes out to all those who have already donated—whether covering an entire pole or contributing $100, every dollar makes a difference.

• Showground Improvements and Volunteer Work Day

The board also discussed additional improvements to the showgrounds in preparation for upcoming events. Plans are underway for a volunteer work day to assist with these efforts. More information will be shared soon. We welcome all members who are willing to lend a hand.