FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE -- January 23, 2006
For more information contact: Lonnie Messick, executive vice-president, 931-684-9506


TRAINERS AND OWNERS SIGN THREE-YEAR AGREEMENT
TO OPERATE THE NHSC

     SHELBYVILLE, TENN. - The Walking Horse Owners’ Association (WHOA) and the Walking Horse Trainers’ Association (WHTA) reached an agreement today to operate the National Horse Show Commission (NHSC).  The three-year contract was signed by the presidents of the two organizations, David Landrum for WHTA and David Pruett for WHOA.  Pruett will also serve as the chairman of the NHSC.
     The new contract has very few changes from the current one.  The new contract deletes the Tennessee Walking Horse Breeders’ and Exhibitors’ Association as one of the NHSC partners and changes the number of representatives from each association from three to four. 
     Serving on the NHSC Board of Directors for 2006 will be Knox Blackburn, David Landrum and Mack Motes from WHTA and Kim Bennett, Frank Neal and David Pruett from WHOA.  Under the new agreement both associations will select another representative to serve on the NHSC Board.  Lonnie Messick will continue in his current role as Executive Vice President and Director of Animal Welfare/DQP Services.
     Pruett feels the recent changes at the NHSC will insure its viability for years to come.  “We have well-trained DQP’s and an exceptional list of qualified judges who will continue to serve our affiliated shows.”
     The NHSC office is open Monday-Friday from 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM.  Their phone number is 931-684-9506.
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