APHA Announces Top Five Gold Star Club of Distinction Recipients
Logo courtesy of APHA
PHJ press release by: Megan Brincks
The APHA community is filled with superb regional clubs, and every year the association honors those that go above and beyond to promote the Paint Horse breeds and serve members and communities.
Five regional clubs will be honored with the President’s Club of Distinction award at the 2015 APHA Convention, held February 27–March 2 in Fort Worth, Texas.
The 2014 President’s Club of Distinction winners are:
- Arizona Paint Horse Club
- Southwest Washington Paint Horse Club
- Texas Paint Horse Club
- Virginia Paint Horse Club
- Washington State Paint Horse Club
Honorable mentions:
- New England Paint Horse Club
- Northern California Paint Horse Club
- Oklahoma Paint Horse Club
“I just can’t express in words how rewarding this achievement feels to me and our members who have invested so much of themselves,” Southwest Washington Paint Horse Club President Nicole Slattery-Abilla said. “For five years, every month the Club of Distinction has been on our agenda and minutes. SWWPHC is celebrating their 40th anniversary in 2015, and what a special achievement to commemorate 40 years.”
To be considered for the Club of Distinction award, clubs must have previously reached Gold Star status and demonstrate the qualities of a premier regional club—outstanding promotion and public service to Paint Horses and their supporters. This dedication can be shown through fundraisers, benefits, social gatherings, Youth activities and special promotions while encouraging community service.
APHA renewed Gold Star status of the Oklahoma Paint Horse Club and awarded new Gold Star status to the Empire State Paint Horse Club, Kansas Paint Horse Association and Swiss Paint Horse Association.
Regional clubs are an important part of the larger association by connecting local Paint Horse enthusiasts through gatherings, shows and trail rides. Clubs allow people with similar interests to connect and bond over a common appreciation for the Paint Horse breed.
Along with a certificate of recognition, each club will receive gift certificates to the APHA General Store and Gist Silversmiths. Details about the prizes are found on the Regional Club website.
For more information about the Club of Distinction program or to find a club near you, visit clubs.apha.com/clubessentials/recogprog/goldstar.aspx.
